|
Oct. 26.
Whitehall. |
1194. Earl of Nottingham to Governor Lord Cornbury.
The Queen having been informed that great quantitys of
provisions have been laden on some vessells in the Ports on the
Continent of America, on pretence of carrying the same to
Jamaica and other H.M. Islands in those parts, but that in truth
H.M. enemys have been supplyed with them, to the great
damage and prejudice of H.M. Plantations, besides the advantage
H.M. enemys receive thereby, being furnished with such
provisions by this means as they would otherwise want, H.M.
for preventing this mischief has commanded me to signify her
pleasure to your Lordship, that you give order to the several
officers of the respective Ports under your command, not to suffer
any vessell or ship to load provisions more than is sufficient for
the ship's crew or passengers during their voyage, or to sail
out of the Port so loaden untill sufficient security shall be given
that those provisions nor any part thereof shall not be carried
to or sold in any place under the dominion of H.M. enemys, nor
to the Island of St. Thomas, but that the same shall be truly and
really delivered at the place whither such ship shall affirm to be
bound, or to some other under H.M. dominion, further obliging
the Master of such vessell to produce or transmit within a convenient time to your Lordship or to the Officers of such place
whence she shall depart, a certificate under the hands and seals
of the Officers of the place where the said provisions shall be
delivered of the delivery thereof, with such description thereof
as shall be necessary, excepting in the usuall manner the danger
of the sea or capture by the enemy. Signed, Nottingham.
Endorsed, Circular Letter to the Governors of Plantations.
Recd. Read Nov. 9, 1703. [C.O. 323, 5. No. 21; and 324, 8.
pp. 268–270.] |
| Oct. 26. |
1195. Minutes of Council [in Assembly] of Barbados. The
Hon. George Lillington presented to H.E. in Council several
depositions taken by him and the Hon. Jonathan Downes,
according to H.E. Order, concerning some irregularities committed by Lt. Col. William Salmon, of the Regiment under
the command of Col. Abell Alleyne. Ordered that he attend to
answer the premises at the next sitting. |
|
Petition of Katherine, an old woman, a free negro, against
Dudley Woodbridge, was, at the request of her Counsell, deferred
to next Council day, and then ordered peremptorily to come on. |
|
Petition of William Sambo against Charles Squire ordered
peremptorily to be heard next Council day. |
|
Error brought by Thomas Walduck to reverse a judgment
obteyned against him in the Court of Common Pleas for
St. Peter's by James Hurst for a debt of 10l., heard, and judgment
reversed. |
|
Error brought by John Stevens to reverse a judgment on an
action of trespass obteyened by Alexander Arnott and Mary
his wife in the Court of Common Pleas for St. Michael's precincts,
and a writ of error brought by William Row in the like case,
ordered to be heard this day four weeks. |
|
Costs were taxed for the complainant in the case of John
Stewart v. Ralph Walker. |
|
Thomas Marshall praying costs in his case v. Dr. Wm. Browne,
the suit was adjudged fallen owing to the death of the latter. |
|
So in the case of John Waterman v. David Ramsay, and John
Waterman v. Jacob Waterman, owing to the death of complainant. |
|
18l. 7s. 6d. paid to Edward Arnell for entertaining Courts,
Committees, etc. His account for entertaining juries was referred
to the Assembly. |
|
Petition of Edward Arnell, for payment for entertaining the
French men that came up in the Flag of Truce, referred to the
Assembly. |
|
87l. 18s. 9d. paid to Samuel Irish, gunner of Queen's Fort,
for two years' salary and disbursements. |
|
28l. paid to Thomas Reynoldson for maintaining French
prisoners. |
|
Charles Buckworth, Edward Chilton and Wm. Rawlin presented
to H.E. a state of the case of Capt. Gilligan. Quoted. Whereupon ordered that Gilligan give security to abide H.M. determination of the matter, or remain in custody. |
|
H.E. ordered that publication be made in the several churches
and towns of H.M. Orders for holding a General Sessions twice
a year. Commission ordered for holding a Court of Oyer and
Terminer in December. |
|
Proclamation ordered to be published commanding all persons
that shall arrive in this Island forthwith to repaire to some J.P.
and give an account whence they came and to answer all other
reasonable questions, and to receive a certificate from such
J.P. of their being so examined before any person presume to
harbour them. |
|
Proclamation for preventing the running away with boats
from this Island ordered to be published in the churches and
chappells. |
|
Directions issued for all officers, civil and military, to take
the oaths appointed instead of the oaths of allegiance and
supremacy and to subscribe the Test and the Abjuration Oath,
and that a return thereof be made to H.E. at the first sitting
of the Council after the last day of Dec. [C.O. 31, 8.
pp. 124–141.] |
| Oct. 26. |
1196. Minutes of Council in Assembly of Jamaica. The
Council advised H.E. to reply as follows to the Representatives
in answer to their message Oct. 23:—If there had been any
money in the Treasury, the Governor had some time since sent
reliefe to the People att Providence. But it is att present soe
bare and soe much anticipated that there is neither ready money
nor creditt to be gott. But in case the House will consider of
a way to inable him to support the charge, he will readyly and
willingly send a vessell for their releife to invite them downe
as is desired. |
| Oct. 27. |
The House replied:—The Assembly are heartily sorry the
Treasury should be soe low, but beg leave to informe your Honour
that if those Bills now before the Councill were past, the Revenue
will be sufficiently supplied with money and creditt. |
|
The House was summoned to attend, and H.M. Instruction
relateing to the takeing the oaths was read, and the Act which
appoints the alterations in the abjuration oath was produced
to the House, and the forme of the oath read to them, and the
Governor proposed the takeing of it by the Members, on which
some demurring as not having heard anything of it before, they
desired time till 4 in the afternoon to consider of it, which the
Governor granting they took the Book of Acts and the Roll
whereon the Governor and Councill had subscribed their names
to the oath with them to the House, but before they went the
Governor said to them:—"My hearty zeale for Jamaica makes
me imbrace all opportunityes to endeavour once more a good
understanding between the House and the elected Members
that doe not sitt, not doubting but they will submitt to the House
that both the honour of the House may be preserved and the
liberty of the people, which would deprive our enemyes of their
designe, and firmly unite our friends, and I hope all good men
will joine with me in accomplishing the good worke." |
|
4 p.m. The Speaker and 21 Members of the Assembly, all that
was present, took the abjuration oath. Which being done, the
Governor told them he hoped as wee was unanimously in this,
wee should be soe in all things else, which he should be very glad
to see. |
| Oct. 28. |
Message sent up:—The House desire H.E. will issue forth
H.M. Royal proclamation to take into custody Capt. Thomas
Freeman, a Member of this House, who has resisted and contemned
the authority thereof, in order to be punished for his great contempt, and reduced to obedience. Proclamation ordered to be
prepared accordingly. |
|
Robert Meakins and John Gay, Clerk of the House, took the
Abjuration Oath. |
|
The matter of the five Bills lying before the Board comeing
under consideration, and the question put whether they should
be read as bills or papers, it was carried by the majority of votes
that they should be read as papers, which was done. [C.O. 140,
6. pp. 544–547; and 561–564.] |
| Oct. 26. |
1197. Journal of Assembly of Jamaica. See preceding
abstract under date. |
|
Thomas Bryan, absenting himself from the service of the House,
Resolved that he be sent for in custody by the Speaker's warrant. |
| Oct. 27. |
The Messenger reported that he had him in his custody. |
|
See preceding abstract under date. |
|
Petition of the parish of St. Thomas to Windward was read,
and nobody appearing to own it, it was rejected. |
|
Mr. Brayne (sic) having been heard in his excuse, was discharged, being reprimanded by the Speaker and paying fees,
20s. each to the Clerk and Messenger. |
| Oct. 28. |
See preceding abstract under date. |
|
Question whether the Gentlemen expelled the House during
this Assembly be capable to sit in the House, carried in the
negative. [C.O. 140, 7. pp. 140–143.] |
Oct. 27.
Boston. |
1198. Governor Dudley to the Council of Trade and
Plantations. My last addresses were per Capt. Steel, Sept. 15.
One of the Mast ships is arrived, and all our merchant men in
compa., and notwithstanding the mischeifs the Indians have
done me, I have always had a watch and gaurds upon the Masts
in the woods and in the Pool, and they are all ready to ship.
Mr. Usher is now in New Hampshier in the service, and I have
H.M. commands refering to Mr. Allin's affaires, which I shall
carefully and strictly obey. I have generally about 500 men
marching in two partyes in the woods, but have yet had no
advantage against the enemy, they being capable to remove in
an hour, so as to demand a twelve hours march after them.
Col. Romer is returned from Cascobay, where he has raysed a
good pallasade worke of about an acre of ground with bastians
fit for 600 men, where I shall lodge the forces for a winter's march
beyond Pemaquid to Norigwalk, where the Sachems and Fryers
reside, which must be done about Christmas. I am in great want
of small armes; those that we have, have been so often repared,
and are of so many sorts, they are of little service, and as the
people grow more, the armes grow fewer. The General Assembly
of this Province set down to-morrow, when I shall communicate
to them H.M. gratious letters refering to Pemaquid and the
maintenance of the Governmt. I have no great opinion of this
conveyance, being small and without convoy. Signed, J. Dudley.
Endorsed, Recd. 2nd, Read 3rd Dec., 1703, and Feb. 11, 170¾.
Annexed, |
|
1198. i. Abstract of preceding. 1 p. [C.O. 5, 863. Nos. 52,
52. i.; and (without abstract) 5, 911. pp. 203, 204.] |
Oct. 27.
St. Jago de la Vega. |
1199. Minutes of Council of Jamaica. Ordered that in
every precinct of this Island the Abjuration Oath be administered
to every Magistrate and Officer obleiged by Law to take the
same the first Session or the first Court Marshall ensuing. |
| Oct. 28. |
50l. paid to Florence Burroughs for sloop hire (Sept. 22). |
|
33l. 16s. 3d. paid to the seamen which escaped in the sloop
Catha. from Hispaniola for 1,126 foot of planck taken up for
the publick use, etc. [C.O. 140, 6. pp. 180, 181; and 192, 193.] |
Oct. 27.
Portsmouth. |
1200. Minutes of Council of New Hampshire. Wm.
Partridge made a motion to H.E., that he having a ship in the
River that wanted to be fitted to sea with all expedition, and
required the daily attendance upon her, he being bound a voyage
to England, desired that he might be dismist as being a Member
of this Board, which his Honour granted. |
|
H.E. proposed that whereas there are but two souldjers
belonging to H.M. Fort William and Mary at Newcastle under
the Queen's pay, are not sufficient for the safeguard of said Fort,
therefore thinks it highly reasonable that there be four men
more added to the said Fort as souldjers under the Queen's pay,
ordered that four men be entered accordingly from to-morrow
to continue there one month. Ordered that cartridge paper be
supplied for the great guns at H.M. Fort at Newcastle, and a
boat with oars etc., and wood and oil. |
|
Ordered that the Selectmen and Militia Officers shall have
full power in each town of this Province, if they shall see meet,
to order all corne and graine to be brought under the safety of
some garrison in the town where the owners thereof shall live,
and in case any person shall refuse to bring in the same
accordingly, that then it shall be in the power of the said
Selectmen and Militia Officers to cause the said corne and graine
to be secured as aforesaid, and shall pay the charge accrewed
out of the said corn and graine. [C.O. 5, 789. pp. 148, 149.] |
Oct. 27.
Boston. |
1201. Minutes of Council in Assembly of the Massachusetts
Bay. The Assembly attending, H.E. addressed them:—Since
I last saw you I have visited the frontiers and put them in the
best posture I could, and have now about 400 men upon a second
march into the woods to find the enemy's quarters, and to see
what can be done upon them, agreeable to your desire and advice
the late Session, and have had the Galley and two sloops well
fitted, cruising upon the Eastern Coast, to prevent any French
trade with the enemy. I shall now draw the forces into quarters
to recruit after their weary marches, till the men be well setled
for a winter's march to the other Forts, which can at no other
time be come at by us, and trust in the good Providence of
Almighty God that he will give us advantage against so
perfidious an enemy. I have to communicate to you H.M.
repeated commands, wch. I have received by these ships, of her
just expectation that you do settle a salary upon your Governor for
his honble. support, as you tender her princely regard and favour
for you, as likewise that you do again consider and do your duty
in restoring the fortifications at Pemaquid. I shall offer you no
arguments on these heads, but that herein we shall show ourselves
obedient and good subjects, as all H.M. Kingdoms and Plantations
do at this time to the most just and gracious Prince that ever
sat upon the Throne of England, and I am commanded to assure
you that this is the method to obtain H.M. favour, and that
it is her Royal Grace thus to move you to do your duty rather
than to have it in any other way. I am sensible of H.M. great
favour to the Provinces at present under my command; I have
neglected nothing for your service, which I shall always continue
to the utmost of my power, and may not doubt of your
assistance in everything for the common advantage. |
|
H.M. Letters were read and delivered to the Speaker. |
|
Letter from Constantine Phips, Agent for the Province, read
intimating his presenting the Addresses sent the last year to
H.M., and the application he had made for a supply of warlike
stores; also intimating that a Charter of Incorporation was
granting to Sir Matthew Dudley and others to furnish H.M. with
Naval Stores from New England. |
| Oct. 28. |
Petition of David Jeffries, of Boston, Merchant, on behalf of
himself and others the owners of the Byfrons, read and sent down. |
| Oct. 29. |
Several petitions presented to the Board, relating to the great
drawbridge within the Town of Boston, the carriage whereof is
sometime since fallen down, having been read, Ordered that
there be a hearing of that matter Nov. 3. [C.O. 5, 789.
pp. 876–888.] |
Oct. 28.
Whitehall. |
1202. Council of Trade and Plantations to Governor
Codrington. We are glad to have received a letter under your
own hand, dated Aug. 8; and thereby perceiving your health
to be in some degree restored, we hope a little time may perfect
it, so that we may expect the fuller account of the affaires of your
Government which you promise by the next Packet-boat. In
the meantime observing by this the continuance of your desire
that you may have leave to return to England, and your complaint of being abandon'd by your friends in that matter, we
have communicated the same to the Earle of Nottingham, etc.
[see Oct. 19]. Signed, Dartmouth, Robt. Cecill, Ph. Meadows,
Wm. Blathwayt, Jno. Pollexfen, Mat. Prior. [C.O. 153, 8.
pp. 214, 215.] |
Oct. 28.
Whitehall. |
1203. William Popple to the Clark of the Assembly of
Jamaica. The Council of Trade and Plantations, taking notice
that there has been a failure in transmitting to them the Minutes
of the Assembly of Jamaica for longer time than is convenient
for their information, they have ordered me to signify to you
that, it being the duty of your place to furnish the Lieut. Governor
with transcripts of all proceedings of the Assembly from time
to time as he shall require the same, upon pain of incurring
the forfeiture of your place, it is expected that you punctually
take care therein, or that otherwise such omission will be imputed
to your neglect. [C.O. 138, 11. pp. 62, 63.] |
Oct. 28.
Whitehall. |
1204. Council of Trade and Plantations to Lt. Gov. Handasyd.
We have now before us two letters from you dated August 27,
besides those acknowledged Aug. 26th. We have observed what
you write of the difficulties that have been about quartering
and subsisting the soldiers, together with the Act which was at
length obtained for that purpose. We have likewise considered
the petition of yourself and the other Officers which was presented
to H.M. and refer'd to us, and we have thereupon laid before
H.M. our humble opinion with a favourable regard to the Officers
and to the state of the soldiers; the effect whereof we expect
and shall in due time acquaint you therewith. We have now
under consideration the Acts that have been transmitted for
preventing the rebuilding of Port Royal, and for settling the
seat of trade at Kingston in order to report upon them. We
have heard the several parties concerned therein, and find them
highly inflamed against each other, for which we are sorry, they
being persons of esteem and consideration: this matter is of
the greatest moment, and apparent difficultys arise upon its
being determined either way. We should have been glad to
have had your opinion more particularly, which as Governour,
we think you ought to have given us; whereas you only refer
us to other men's opinions in the Minutes of Council. We are
laying before H.M. the present state of Jamaica in the several
particulars wherein you represent it to us, upon all which
matters you shall in due time be acquainted with the directions
that may be given upon them. In the mean time as we should
have been glad to have found that your endeavours for preventing
or composing those differences had been more effectual, so we
yet exhort you to employ your utmost care about it. The duplicate of your letter of May 30 expressing (in relation to the
Revenue Act) that tho' you could not obtain perpetuity, yet
you had obtained 21 years, gave us reason to expect that some
Act had already been past to that effect; but we are sorry to
perceive by the Minutes of Assembly that the business is yet in
agitation, and but small progress made therein. That is a
matter wherein your diligence and prudence are much required,
and upon the success whereof the settlement of the whole body
of laws of that Island, as well those formerly confirmed as those
which lye now before us, or may be further transmitted from
thence, will depend. In the same letter you mention the troubles
that have been occasioned by some base designing men, who
endeavoured to put all things into a flame. We wish you had
explained that matter more fully, that we might have perceived
from whence any disturbances doe or may arise; the jealousies
you express of complaints made or sent to us against yourself
are groundless, nothing of that kind having been laid before us.
You have done well in transmitting to us the differences between
yourself and the Councill and Captain Wavell, which we have
laid before H.R.H., and accordingly you may expect the proper
directions thereupon. Your proposal for settling a Governor
in the Bay of Campeachy is defective. You ought to have
explained how you conceive such a Governour may be supported,
and the place defended; as you enlarge upon this subject we
shall take it into consideration. Observing the difficulties that
you say you have had in obtaining transcriptions of the Journals
of the Assembly, we have ordered our Secretary to write to the
Clarke, and admonish him of his duty that no such neglect may
be hereafter. We desire you also to give strict charge to whatsoever Clarke or other person it may concern, that the transcripts
of all publick proceedings that you send over (and especially
Acts of Assembly) be carefully examined, for in the Act to prevent
incursions etc. which we have now received (line the 5th) the
word enacted, on which the whole depends, is omitted. Signed,
Dartmouth, Robt. Cecill, Ph. Meadows, Wm. Blathwayt, Jn.
Pollexfen, Mat. Prior. [C.O. 138, 11. pp. 63–68.] |
Oct. 28.
Whitehall. |
1205. Council of Trade and Plantations to Governor Sir B.
Granville. We have received yours of June 16 and August 3
to us, and of Aug. 3 and 8 to our Secretary; and yet want answers
to ours of July 28, and one from our Secretary of Aug. 26. As to
the regulation made by H.M. in reference to presents from
Assemblys to Governors, it has been general to all parts of
America, and was made before your nomination to the Government of Barbados, and was judged necessary to remove the
occasions that had been given, and others that might be given,
of complaints against Governours, so that tho' it do cut off
some advantages you might have expected in that Government,
it is not for us to propose anything to H.M. against a settlement
so solemnly made: But we shall be glad any other opportunity
may offer by which we may recommend your services to H.M.
bountiful consideration. We have transmitted an extract of
what you writ to us upon the death of the Engineer and Master
Gunner to the Board of Ordnance, and of what you writ concerning
the pay of the Gunners both to the Ordnance and Treasury;
these being the proper Offices to whom the direction of these
matters belong. We have also transmitted copies of the
Proceedings, which you have sent us, of a Court Martial upon
the occasion of three French Prisoners, to the Earle of Nottingham,
with our opinion thereupon to be laid before H. M. for the
signification of her Royal pleasure, which you may soon expect.
As to your apprehension of the want of a new Commission from
H.M. for the trying of pirates, we conceive there is no occasion
for any such; that from his late Majesty continuing in force till
H.M. further pleasure be known, as appears by the Proclamation
formerly sent to the President and Councill, a copy whereof is
here inclosed. We do not doubt but you have well considered
H.M. interest in refusing to ratify the Cartel with the French,
and we cannot but approve of your discouraging the frequent
Flaggs of Truce sent between the French Islands and Barbados,
which serves only to carry on a prohibited Trade injurious to
H.M. service. We are sorry for the sickness which you say
has been in the Island, and more particularly for the share you
have had of it; but hope you are perfectly recovered and may
enjoy a more secure state of health after this first seasoning.
Signed, Dartmouth, Robt. Cecill, Ph. Meadows, Wm. Blathwayt,
Jno. Pollexfen, Mat. Prior. [C.O. 29, 8. pp. 335–338.] |
Oct. 28.
Whitehall. |
1206. Journal of Council of Trade and Plantations. Letters
to Sir B. Granville, Col. Codrington, and Col. Handasyd signed. |
|
Representation relating to the security of Trade agreed upon. |
|
Representation for repealing two Acts of N. Hampshire agreed
upon. |
| Oct. 29. |
Representation relating to the security of Trade in the
Plantations, with letter to Lord Nottingham, signed. |
|
Representation for repealing two Acts of New Hampshire
signed. |
|
Letter to the Lord Treasurer, enclosing an account of the
incidental charges of this office, signed. |
|
Letter from Mr. Skene, Aug. 9, read. [C.O. 391, 16. pp. 246–248; and 391, 97. pp. 645–649.] |
Oct. 28.
Boston. |
1207. Minutes of Council of the Massachusetts Bay.
150l. paid to Capt. Zechariah Tuthill on account of the workmen
employed at Castle Island. |
|
Petition of William Vesey etc. [Oct. 21] fully heard. The
Council are of opinion that the petitioner be referred for remedy
to a due process in the Law. [C.O. 5, 789. p. 544.] |
Oct. 29.
Whitehall. |
1208. Council of Trade and Plantations to the Earl of
Nottingham. Enclosing following Representation to be laid
before H.M. Signed, Dartmouth, Rob. Cecill, Ph. Meadows,
Wm. Blathwayt, John Pollexfen, Mat. Prior. 1p. Enclosed, |
|
1208. i. Council of Trade and Plantations to the Queen. We
have received repeated intelligence from your Majesty's
several Plantations in America, that the French have greatly
increased the number of their Privateers at the Charibbee
Islands, and do intercept our ships trading to those
parts with provisions from your Majesty's Northern
Plantations, by which your Majesty's Islands are rendered
destitute of provisions, and the French, who are not
furnished from Europe, are thereby largely supplyed.
To prevent which mischiefs, we humbly offer that your
Majesty's Governors of New England and New Yorke
do send the ships of war attending those Colonies towards
the winter season as convoys to the ships trading with
provisions and other commodities between the Northern
and Southern Plantations, as we have already represented to H.R.H.; and because such convoy sent once
a year will not suffice considering the number of provision
ships sent from the Northern Plantations, and the
different seasons of their sailing, we further humbly
offer that besides the said convoy to be settled for the
beginning of the winter, another convoy be appointed
to saile from England in the month of February, so as
to be ready at New York, or some other of the Northern
Plantations, by the month of April, to convoy from
thence the shiping of those Plantations which shall be
ready to sayle at that time to the Southward, and that
the times when each of these convoys shall be ready
to saile be signified to the several Governors of the
Northern Plantations, to be by them made known to
whom it may concern, that the shipping may accordingly
be ready, by the convenience of which convoy sailing
from England the merchant ships trading from hence
to the Northern Plantations will likewise find their
security. [Note in margin: Agreed, if Pr(ivy) Council
no obj]. |
|
By letters from several Plantations we are informed
that while, in pursuance of your Majesty's Declaration
of War, your Majesty's subjects in strict observation
thereof do forbear to carry on that private correspondence and commerce which they formerly had
with the Spanish Nation in America, and are thereby
deprived of considerable advantages, the Dutch with
a different regard to their interest do contrive by all
ways and means to ingage the Spaniards in those parts
to a commerce with them, and for the better ingratiating
themselves with that people have called in their
privateers, and enjoy a free and open trade with the
Spaniards there, far greater than ever; which gives
very great discouragement to your Majesty's subjects
and occasions their carrying the several commodities
of the Plantations (contrary to the Acts of Trade) to
the Dutch to be vended by them to the Spaniards or
carryed to Europe, for which your Majesty's subjects
receive in exchange from the Dutch commodities of
the growth of Europe; the same inconvenience does
likewise happen between your Majesty's Plantations
and the Danish Colony at St. Thomas. For the prevention whereof we humbly offer that effectual orders
be given by the Commissioners of your Majesty's
Customs to their under officers in the Plantations (and
more particularly in the Propriety and Charter Governments, where the Acts of Trade and Navigation are
least regarded) that they do more strictly inspect the
importation and exportation of all goods there, and
take care that sufficient bonds and security be given
for the due observation of those Acts in reference to
Trade with Foreigners. And that an exact account be
given to the said officers and by your Majesty's Governors
as far as in them lyes of all Trade carryed on with
Curacao and the Island of St. Thomas. And whereas
it has been found by long experience that the irritating
the Spaniards by private attempts upon the Land in
America has only tended to the loss of a considerable
trade without any real advantage to your Majesty's
subjects, and is the present cause of turning that trade
into the hands of our Neighbours, we further humbly
offer that such measures be taken herein as to your
Majesty's great wisdom shall seem meet. And that
your Majesty's subjects be not excluded from an
equal advantage of Trade with others in those parts.
Signed, Dartmouth, Rob. Cecill, Ph. Meadows, Wm.
Blathwayt, John Pollexfen, Mat. Prior. 4 pp.
[C.O. 152, 39. Nos. 97, 97. i.; and 324, 8. pp. 262–267.] |
| Oct. 29. |
1209. Account of Petty Expenses of the Council of Trade
and Plantations, Midsummer to Michaelmas, 1703. Total,
9l. 4s. 4d. (includes 8s. for a map). Endorsed, Read Oct. 29, 1703.
1 p. [C.O. 388, 75. No. 76.] |
| [Oct. 29.] |
1210. Mr. Churchill's Account of Stationery supplied to
the Office of the Council of Trade and Plantations, Michaelmas
to Midsummer, 1703. Total, 30l. 10s. 10d. Endorsed, Read
Oct. 29, 1703. 1¾ pp. [C.O. 388, 75. No. 77.] |
| Oct. 29.] |
1211. Mr. Short's Account for postage, Midsummer to
Michaelmas, 1703. Total, 24l. 8s. 2d. Endorsed as preceding.
1 p. [C.O. 388, 75. No. 78.] |
| Oct. 29.] |
1212. Account of wood and coals for the same. (Scotch
coals at 41s. per ton.) Total, 32l. 5s. 2d. Endorsed as preceding.
1 p. [C.O. 388, 75. No. 79.] |
Oct. 29.
Whitehall. |
1213. Council of Trade and Plantations to the Lord High
Treasurer. We enclose account of the incidental charges of
our Office, Dec. 25, 1702—Sept. 29, 1703, amounting to
242l. 14s. 5d. Signed, Dartmouth, Rob. Cecill, Ph. Meadows,
Wm. Blathwayt, Jno. Pollexfen, Mat. Prior. Annexed, |
|
1213. i. Account of Petty Expences as supra. [C.O. 389, 36.
pp. 164, 165.] |
Oct. 29.
Whitehall. |
1214. Council of Trade and Plantations to the Queen.
Having had under consideration several Acts of New Hampshire,
we humbly report that the Act for the confirmation of town grants
does confirm all grants of lands that have been heretofore made
unto any person by the inhabitants of the respective towns within
that Province, or by the Select Men, or a Committee in each
town, without having any regard to or saving of the rights of
the Gent. Proprietor or other persons who might be entituled
to the same before the making such grants, which proceeding,
especially whilst the controversies in course of Law between the
said Proprietor and the Inhabitants of the Province, relating to
the right he has always claimed, are yet depending, we conceive
to be very undue and not fit to be allowed. And another Act,
to prevent contention and controversies that may arise concerning
the bounds of the respective townes within this Province, seeming
to us of such doubtfull construction, as that the same may
intrench on the rights of particular persons, we humbly offer
that your Majesty would please to declare your disallowance and
repeal of both the said Acts. Signed, Dartmouth, Rob. Cecill,
Ph. Meadows, Wm. Blathwayt, John Pollexfen, Mat. Prior.
[C.O. 5, 911. pp. 128, 129.] |
| Oct. 29. |
1215. Attorney General to the Council of Trade and Plantations. I have considered of the Acts of Barbados, Dec. 23, 1702–Jan. 21, 1703, which Laws I conceive are agreable to Law and
doe not containe any thing prejudiciall to H.M. Royal prerogative.
Nevertheless I must observe that by that for raising a levy to
discharge the public debts provision is made for payment of
750l. to the Agents for that Island in England, the like provision
having been made for them by Acts in 1700, 1701, 1702, and your
Lordships will best judge by the Agents' attendance on your
Board whether they deserve to have such annual sums, and
whether they doe attend the business of that Island as becomes
them. Signed, Ed. Northey. Endorsed, Recd. Nov. 1703, Read
June 19, 1705. 1 p. [C.O. 28, 7. No. 4; and 29, 9. pp. 319,
320.] |
| Oct. 29. |
1216. Attorney General to the Council of Trade and Plantations. I have considered of the Acts of Barbados, Nov. 5, 1700–May 15, 1701, and find nothing therein contrary to Law or prejudiciall to H.M. Royal prerogative. Signed, Edw. Northey.
Endorsed, Recd. Nov. 4, 1703, Read July 21, 1704. [C.O. 28, 7.
No. 5; and 29, 8. pp. 445, 446.] |
| Oct. 29. |
1217. Minutes of Council in Assembly of Jamaica. Acts
for raiseing a Revenue; raising and appropriating an additional
duty and impost; for encouraging the importation of whites;
for ascertaining, establishing and more speedy collecting H.M.
Quit rents, were read the first time and past. |
|
Capt. Nedham took the Abjuration Oath. |
|
Message sent up:—The House having maturely considered
of your Honour's Speech relating to the Gentlemen expelled
(with due regard both to the liberties of the freeholders of
each respective parish, and the honour of the House), have
resolved that, they being expelled during this Assembly, are
thereby become incapable to be Members thereof soe long as
this Assembly shall continue. Wherefore wee desire new writts
for electing Members to serve in the roome of those Gentlemen. |
|
The House being willing to be free from all aspersions on
account of the tearing of their Minutes, have each of them and
their Officers voluntarily declared upon the Holy Evangelist that
they know not directly or indirectly of tareing the same, or who
were concerned therein. We further pray leave to acquaint your
Honour that wee hope wee have finished as farr as in us lies
H.M. and the Countries buissiness. And since the season of the
year requires every man's presence and attendance on our
respective affaires, we humbly pray your Honour to take it into
consideration. They reminded H.E. of the five Bills sent up. |
|
Whereupon the Governor required the opinion of the Board
whether he should issue out new writts according to the opinion
of the House, who unanimously agreed that the answer the Board
advised the Governor to give on Oct. 2 was full in that part,
which they could not now advise him to recede from. |
|
The Act for making the Cay etc. a port of entry was read the
first time and past. |
|
Message sent down: The Governor and Council are both of
opinion that it is highly reasonable that the House have some
time to inspect and attend upon their owne affairs. But the Act
for quartering the soldiers being to expire Jan. 1st, desire they
will take into consideration to continue the same for longer time,
that the recess may be more advantagious to you. |
|
Message sent up that the House had resolved to bring in such a Bill. |
|
Act for raising a Revenue read the second time. |
|
Additional duty Bill read the second time. |
| Oct. 30. |
Acts for establishing the Quit-rents and encouraging the
importation of white men read the second time. |
|
Petition of the inhabitants of Kingston against the Act for
making the Cay a port of entry read. The said Act was read
the second time and past by the majority. |
|
In response to a request from the Council, the House consented
to a Joint-Committee upon the Act for establishing H.M. Quitrents, "since it is not a Bill for money raised in our House." |
|
In response to a desire from the Council for a free Conference
upon the Additional Duty Bill, the House replied that it was
their opinion they ought not to confer upon money Bills.
[C.O. 140, 6. pp. 547–552; and 565–569.] |
| Oct. 29. |
1218. Journal of Assembly of Jamaica. See preceding
abstract under date. |
|
Capt. Mathew Gregory was sworn. |
|
Committee appointed to bring in a Bill to continue H.M.
Officers and soldiers [in quarters] for a longer time. Resolved
that other Commissioners be appointed in the room of John
Blair and Henry Brabant, and that they be accountable to the
Commissioners to be appointed by the Act to be brought in.
The Bill was read the first time, Hugh Totterdell and Wm. Nedham
being appointed Commissioners, and the Act being to continue
till May 1, 1704. |
| Oct. 30. |
The above Bill was read the second time (i.e. An Act for the
Continuance of two Acts for raising money for providing an
addition for the subsistence of H.M. officers and souldiers). |
|
See preceding abstract under date. |
|
Col. Odoardo Lewis being very much indisposed had leave to
repair home for the recovery of his health. |
|
Proclamation against Thomas Freeman ordered to be entered
in the Minutes. |
|
The Chairman of the Committee reported several proposals
made at the Conference upon the Act for ascertaining the QuitRents. [C.O. 140, 7. pp. 144–150.] |
| Oct. 30. |
1219. Mr. Secretary Hedges to the Council of Trade and
Plantations. I am directed to acquaint your Lordships that
it is H.M. pleasure that you should consider whether pitch and
tarre for the use of H.M. Navy may not be procured from
New England or other H.M. Plantations in America, and by
what means it may best be had, you will please to impart your
thoughts on this subject to a Committee of the Lords of the
Council, who will meet at the Cockpitt this day sevennight at
ten a clock in the morning. Signed, C. Hedges. Endorsed,
Recd. Read Nov. 1, 1703. 1 p. [C.O. 5, 863. No. 53; and
5, 911. p. 130.] |
| Oct. 30.] |
1220. Benjamin Way to William Popple. Please to note
that the Petition from Jamaica, praying H.M. to reject the
Kingston Act, that came in this month, is signed by more than
the former as under, beside others both of Councill and Assembly
by letters write their dislike of it as prosecuted here, Tho. Ayscough
of the Council, who was at taking ye Island, Andrew Orgile, Peter
Beckford, jr., of the Assembly, and many others of ye considerable
people. Signed, Benj. Way. Addressed. ½ p. Enclosed, |
|
1220. i. Sir B. Gracedieu and others to the Council of Trade
and Plantations. The Gentlemen that so violently
press for ye passing those Laws are highly concerned
in point of private interest, Col. Lawes and Col. Edlin
having their estates at or near Kingston, and the
Messrs. Heathcotes having laid out great sums of money
soon after ye earthquake at Kingston, built houses
and warehouses there, and well knowing that noe ships
will come thither to unlade but by utmost compulsion,
it being found so inconvenient, dangerous, chargeable
and unhealthy a place. By what clandestine and
violent means these laws were obtained, and the
petitioners against them not only refused to be heard,
but threatned for endeavouring it, tho' most nearly
concerned in point of property, we are ready to prove
with undeniable evidence. The first of those Laws
being remitted to Jamaica for further consideration, in
return there comes two petitions to H.M. to reject those
Laws, signed by 7 of the Council, the whole being
but 11, 14 of ye Assembly, and several hundred others,
whereof many eminent merchants, planters and others.
The Governor indeed hath not signed either of these
petitions, but it evidently appears that he as well as all
other disinterested persons there see the dismal consequences attending those hasty laws, seeing he permits
great numbers of persons to reside at Port Royal,
provisions to be sold and victualling houses to be kept
there, the penaltys in these Laws notwithstanding,
nor can we hear that he hath writ one word to promote
the passing them, but rather ye contrary, so that it's
evident tho' the country were by surprize prevailed
on to pass those Acts, yet after some months' experience,
they saw the ill effects and their errour. That those
petitions were not unfairly obtained is evident because
one comes in August, and another in October, signed
by other and more persons, as well of Council and
Assembly as of others, so it's ye product of thought,
experience and time, not surprize. By the latter of
these Laws five persons are appointed Commissioners,
whereof any three to be a Quorum, to receive claims,
make distributions and convey titles to land at Kingston.
Now two of these Gentlemen being concerned of ye great
mischiefs attending those Laws, are against the passing
of them; they have no interest at Kingston; one of
ye other three, Edmd. Edlyne, having a great estate
there, is come to England, so that the execution of this
Law is rendered almost ineffectual, unless the country
think fit to make a supplemental one, which we are
fully assured they are too well informed now to doe.
As to H.M. ships of war, however those towns are settled,
they must come into and ride in Port Royal harbour
and must careen there, as is evident by Admiral Benbow's
experience, nor can they have anything to propose by
going up into the place they call Kingston Harbour,
unless that an enemy may not come at them, nor they
get to an enemy but at ye expence of a long time, much
charge and hazard, for Port Royal Harbour must still
continue the safest and best and through which ships
must pass, and surely it can't be the worse for having
ye strongest fortification in ye Indies for its defence,
and a town well peopled by art and nature to be made
impregnable for its safeguard. As to trade, the
advantages are abundantly on Port Royal side, for
that all merchant ships must first come to an anchor
there, and may always ride safely there and hawle a ship
of 300 tuns to the wharfe side, and unlade, careen, and
lade again in one quarter the time and charge it may
be possible at Kingston, nor is Kingston Harbour (as
called) in any one thing preferable to Port Royal in
point of trade, but in many respects more chargeable,
hazardous and inconvenient for the shipping and fatally
sickly to its inhabitants, as for instance, (1) If ships
are compelled to go up to Kingston after they are safe
at an anchor in Port Royal harbour, they must another
day pass through another channell up and down, which
must at least be the work of four days more, and at
the charge of skilful pilots, which are costly there,
and when gott through into the harbour can't ride
there but at the charge of another anchor and cable,
which latter is usually spoiled in a voyage, and then
requires a much larger time to discharge, careen and
relade then at Port Royal; t'will be 3 or 400l. each
voyage more. (2) The hazard is very great through
the narrow channel, scarce any ship going up or coming
down but runs aground more than once, which must
be very dangerous with heavy laden ships, and hath
already. produced such effects, H.M.S. Bristole being
much endammaged and almost lost there, and is now
forced to be rebuilt; the Benjamin, and many others
of merchants ships have run aground and damaged
there; and when gott through this narrow passage,
ships come into a wild harbour, where (by confession
of the opponents) the wind blowing for four mile together
makes a great sea, and indeed the waves usually run
as high in Kingston Harbour during the sea-breeze (the
proper and healthy time to work) as in the open sea,
which is sadly evident by the loss of sundry ships'
goods and men's lives in a few months there, which
never hapned at Pt. Royall in many years, and this
not occasioned by accident, as suggested, but by ye
constant high sea and bad weather attending ye harbour,
whereas ye harbour of Port Royall under ye shelter of
that towne is almost as smooth as a millpond. (3) As
to ye fatal sickness attending that place, we heartily
wish we had not too much sad reason to mention that,
besides its being the reason why that place was once
already deserted. It hath been so dismally fatall
to our poor freinds from Port Royall obliged to repair
thither, that many of them have perished and others
suffered very great sicknesses there, scarce any person
escaping that was not brought of that unhealthy spott,
nor is this sickness common with ye rest of ye Island, but
practicarly owing to the unhealthy situation of Kingston,
as is evident by the many letters we have thence, with
ye sad accts. from our surviving friends. (4) As to the
fortifications on Port Royal, we are ready to demonstrate
that Port Royal, by art and nature, especially since
separated from the Maine by ye earthquake, is so
adapted for defence that noe force [of] vessels to be
brought against it can ever conquer it, if well defended,
which cant safely be done without ye assistance of ye
inhabitants. |
|
The principal argument brought for the passing these
Laws is ye opinion of Brigadier Selwyn, Admirall Benbow,
Col. Lilly and the present Lieut. Governor. Brigadier
Selwyn's time and experience in Jamaica was short,
nor are we informed that he ever declared that the
fortifications and town of Port Royal were to be
demolished. Admirall Benbow, a very great and good
Commander, having been unkindly treated at Port
Royal, endeavoured to prefer Kingston for ye careening
his ships, but it's evident he lived to alter his opinion,
the Gloucester being almost lost there, and the hulk
by his express order brought down to Port Royal, and
the Queen's ships careened there. Capt. Lilly some
time ago declared to a gentleman now here that Port
Royal might be made impregnable. Col. Handysid
hath sufficiently intimated his opinion by permitting
liquors to be sold and so many persons to resort and
erect such numerous buildings etc. In August last there
were about 300 familys setled, most of them fled from
Kingston, terrified with the inconveniencys there,
whose propertys will all be taken from them by these
Laws, etc. Pray for their rejection. Signed, Bartho.
Gracedieu, Benj. Way, James Whitchurch, Stephen
Mason. London, Oct. 30, 1703. 5¾ pp. The whole
endorsed, Recd. Nov. 1st, Read Nov. 12, 1703.
5¾ pp. [C.O. 137, 6. Nos. 11, 11.i.] |
Oct. 30.
Boston. |
1221. Minutes of Council in Assembly of the Massachusetts
Bay. Petition of Elisha Hutchinson in the matter of a judgment
given for Thomas Cooper, read. |
|
Petition of David Jeffries (Oct. 28) for an abatement of duty
on wine spoiled in the wreck of the Byfrons at Piscataqua, granted
on the recommendation of the Representatives. |
|
Bill passed by the Representatives relating to the Proprietors
of Common and undivided lands, sent up, was read a first time. |
| Nov. 1. |
The above Bill was read a second time and committed. |
| Nov. 2. |
35l. paid to Thomas Brattle as a further consideration and in
full for his service in laying out the money granted for fortifying
Castle Island. [C.O. 5, 789. pp. 878, 879.] |
Oct. 31.
Barbados. |
1222. Governor Sir B. Granville to the Earl of Nottingham.
Acknowledges letter of Sept. 14. I have an account of a fleet
of 25 sail of French ships being arrived at Martinique on Sept. 13.
I have not bin wanting in sending out for intelligence and getting
the best informations, after having had different accounts brought
me, all I yet know and what I most depend upon is, that there
are amongst them 5 men of war, from 40 to 60 guns and 12 large
flyboats with land soldiers. I expect more news of them every
day, having well sayling sloops out for that purpose. Signed,
Bevill Granville. Endorsed, R. Jan. 23, 170¾. Holograph.
3 pp. [C.O. 28, 38. No. 18.] |
| Oct. 31. |
1223. Governor Sir B. Granville to William Popple. By
the Pacquet boat which arrived the 28th instant, I have yours of
Aug. 26, with a duplicate enclosed from their Lordships and
another for Mr. Bennet, which I have dispatched as you will see.
On Sept. 27 H.M.S. Blackwall, Captain Samuel Martin Commander, brought in here a French Privateer of 12 guns and 120
men, which he took in this latitude, as also an Irish ship bound
hither, which had bin taken the day before by the said Privateer.
Notwithstanding the great number of Privateers which the French
have in these parts, the navigation in the latitude and seas about
this Island has bin pretty free; which is owing to H.M. two
frigates that attend here. On Sept. 13 there did arrive at
Martinique 25 sail of French ships, of which I have an account.
Six were men of war, five from 40 to 60 gunns, and one of 30.
Upon the first notice that I had I gave advice by an express boat
to General Codrington. I can't yet learn whether they come
upon any design or only for convoys and cruisers. I have sloops
out for intelligence as well as the Blackwall. I have the following
account by two vessells arrived this week from Rhode Island,
vizt., That on Sept. 17, severall persons known inhabitants of
Providence, came to Rhode Island and reported that about
the latter end of August 300 French and Spaniards landed upon
Providence, that they plundered the country, carryed off
Mr. Lightwood the President and a pilot: that they blew up
the Fort and flung the gunns into the sea: that they remain'd
upon the Island about a fortnight and then sailed away. |
|
Collonel Maxwell (who was by H.M. lately added to the
Councill, in the room of Collonel Andrews, deceased) dyed here
about a fortnight since, upon whose death Mr. Robert Johnstone
brought me a mandamus signed by the Queen and countersigned
by my Lord Nottingham (bearing date June 7) for his being
admitted into the Councill here upon the first vacancy,
accordingly he was sworn. There are about a dozen ships loaden
here, and will be ready in seven days to sail for London, whither
they are bound; I shall take the best care I can that they are
safe out of these seas, afterwards they must take their fortune.
With this you will receive a particular account of the stores
and strength of this Island, which I desire you would lay before
their Lordships, as also the state of Manasses Gilligan his case.
He is a subject of the Queen's, has traded with H.M. enemies, is
taken in the fact and justifyes himself only by pretending to be
naturalized a Dane at the Isle of St. Thomas; our lawyers are
not clear in their opinion what crime he is guilty of, or whether
of any. I have however thought it for H.M. service to
have him committed until I can receive directions from their
Lordships, how I am to govern myself in this and the like
cases. If his naturalizing himself in a neutral island does
give him priviledge to trade where he thinks fit, you will have
many Merchants in these parts retire to St. Thomas during the
war, that they may do the same. I send also the Minutes of what
has been done in the Court of Chancery since my being here,
as likewise the Minutes of Councill, and naval officers' accounts.
Signed, Bevill Granville. Since the writing of this, I have an
account brought me, that in the French Fleet aforementioned,
there are 5 men of war from 40 to 60 guns and 12 transport
vessells, being large fly-boats full of land soldiers, this account
I have reason to beleive the most exact, and doe give
most credit to it. Enclosed is a duplicate of what I wrote
to their Lordships by the last Pacquet boat. I ask your favour
for the pacquet to Sir John Stanley. Signed, Bevill Granville.
Endorsed, Recd. 24th, Read Jan. 28, 170¾. Holograph. 4 pp.
Enclosed, |
|
1223. i. Abstract of preceding. 4¼ pp. |
|
1223. ii. Copies of receipts for packets of letters for Lt. Gov.
Bennet, Oct., 1703. Signed respectively, John Sandford
and Benjamin Barton. |
|
1223. iii. (a) Account of the Stores of War, Guns, etc. in
Barbados; the various Forts and Batteries are
enumerated. |
(b) List of Militia of Barbados, Oct., 1703.
Regiment of Horse, Col. Farmer, 452.
" " Col. Lesley, 433.
" of Foot, Col. Wheeler, 850.
" " Col. Alleyn, 342.
" " Col. Maycock, 354.
" " Col. Ramsey, 360.
" " Col. Holder, 507.
" " Col. Inch, 359.
"Total, 3,657. |
|
Note in the hand of Governor Sir B. Granville: that
what here are called Forts is according to the stile of the
country, but in truth they are but batterys without
ditch, palizades or embrazures. The Ordinance very
defective, the moistnesse of this air being destructive
to all iron. The Militia in number much lesse then
they were ever known to be, and they every day
diminish by the going off of servants, and none are
brought in, nor no encouragement for it. To make
up the number of the Militia as now it is, one sixth
part is old and decrepit men, and half of what remains
are boys. Endorsed, Recd. Jan. 24, 170¾. 13 pp. |
|
1223. iv. Duplicate of preceding. |
|
1223. v. Minutes of the Court of Chancery of Barbados, May
25—Oct. 27, 1703. Endorsed as preceding. 20 pp. |
|
1223. vi. Memorandum of Naval Officer's List of Ships, Dec.
25, 1702—Sept. 24, 1703. ¼ p. |
|
1223. vii. Memorandum of Minutes of Council of Barbados,
May 11—Sept. 28, 1703. ¼ p. |
|
1223. viii. Copy of an Act to settle 500l. per annum on Governor
Sir Beville Granville, June 8, 1703. Endorsed, Recd.
Jan. 24, 170¾. 1½ pp. |
|
1223. ix. State of the Case of Manasses Gilligan, drawn up by
the Judge of the Admiralty, the Attorney and Solicitor
General of Barbados. Oct. 29, 1703. Endorsed as
preceding. 3 large pp. [C.O. 28, 7. Nos. 6, 6.i.–ix;
and (without enclosures) 29, 8. pp. 368–373.] |
| [? Oct.] |
1224. Merchants and Planters concerned in the Island of
Jamaica to the Queen. Petitioners are informed as well by
several planters and merchants lately arrived from that Island
as by letters from their Correspondents that they had intelligence
by prisoners etc. that the French and Spaniards had formed a
design to attack Jamaica as soon as they found a fitt opportunity
to doe it. In order to which it had been agreed by the French
and Spanish Governors in those parts the several quotas that each
should provide and have ready for that purpose. And this your
petitioners have great reason to feare is true not onely from
their said intelligence, but also from the nature and reason of
the thing, that Island lying in the very heart of the Spanish
Dominions, and only capable of doing them hurt in their trade
and keeping them continually uneasy and in arms, that your
petitioners are humbly of opinion they will not neglect the first
opportunity to draw this thorn out of their side. And now
your Petitioners are afraid too fitt an opportunity has presented
them, the last letters of ye pacquet boat adviseing that
Admiral Graydon hath taken away allmost all the men of warr and
left the Island allmost naked. And to add to their misfortunes
hath in a violent manner pressed and carryed away a great many
of their most useful people, breaking open their houses in the
night, and more are frightened away than he pressed, and those
that are left by the smallnesse of their numbers doe not think
themselves in any manner of safety, but talke of leaving it, as
appears by enclosed letters. This being the dangerous state
of that Island, Petitioners pray that your Majesty will be
graciously pleased to order some men of war with supernumerary
men and recruits for the Regiments may be immediately sent
to save the Island, and that more severe orders may be given
against pressing the few men that are left there. 37 Signatures,
including Gilbert Heathcoat, Hans Sloane, etc. 1 p. Enclosed, |
|
1224. i. Extracts of Letters referred to in preceding. |
|
(a) Withywood in Jamaica, July 5, 1703. I am glad
of Capt. Acton's arrival and of the two villeins having
received their due, though it was look't upon as no
prudent act done of Admirall Whetstone in running
the hazard of their being taken or so, for which reason
Acton protested against careing of them. [See Cal. 1702.
Pref. p. xii.] … There was a vote past the Assembly
for 200l. as a present to be laid out in fresh provisions
for him [? Graydon], but his behaviour stopt it. He
was once ashore with the Governor at Spanish Town,
where he saw a 50l. plate run for, but no great notice taken
of him by the Gentlemen. He has commited several
irregular things by pressing, taking of negroes, stealing,
as I may call it, at Blewfields, where the fleet watered
cattle without paying for them… I am afraid he is
Kirby inclineable, if so may he have the same reward.
He is sailed for Newfoundland. Du Casse has been very
fortunate and undoubted rich in the last four ships,
and none but a coward or the power of guineas would
(as the Gentlemen aboard with him gives out) lett him
escape, who is the onely person and most knowing
that can damnifye us here. 1 p. |
|
(b) Jamaica, July 5, 1703. We are now here in such
a condition that I think it noways adviseable to discover
how many men, the best having left us since the
destruction of Port Royal. To this Admirall Graydon
has added a finishing stroake, who the morning before
he sailed sent his boats and men armed and took off
from Port Royall and Kingstone as well inhabitants
as seafareing men to the terror and dissatisfaction of
all the people of this Island. 1 p. |
|
(c) Jamaica, July 7, 1703. Repeats last half of (b).
½ p. |
|
(d) Jamaica, July 7, 1703. I am glad Kirby and the
other dyed, it was a most villanous action. I could
wish Graydon went the same way. He has presst at
least 70 or 80 persons from Port Royall and Kingston,
and did in ye middle of ye night break up houses without
spareing any, takeing all people that they pleased.
If the Lord High Admiral suffers this, H.M. had better
send for us all home, for the enemy may doe what they
please with us, for they have now frighted away all
the seafaring men, who will never come amongst us,
and they were of 10 to 1 more service to us than 10
regiments of souldiers. We have within this 8 months
lost above 1,200 seamen, and this finishing stroke has
frighted all that were left. You that are at home should
stirr with great urgency in this affaire, and get 8 or
10 men of war at least, if possible more, to be here
with expedition, for wee are threatned with a powerful
descent from both French and Spaniard by November
next, and all our seamen gone and left us. Believe me
we are in a very deplorable and weak condition without
some speedy assistance of men of warr. ¾ p. |
|
(e) Jamaica, July 7. Admiral Graydon and the
Fleet from Guardalupa came to Port Royall Keys with
the transports. They hove overboard Brigadeer
Collumbine, who dyed about Yellows Bay, and as soon
as he came there in that harbour and the souldiers
were landed, he went a pressing furiously, took not
only saylors but others, amongst which Col. Beckford's
son Thomas was prest. Att Kingstone on Sunday night
the allarm was fired about the said place and every
one to his arms. Whipt those masters of vessels that
would not come under his sterne at the Keys, and did
not doe well by the inhabitants in generall. There is
about 80 depositions coming home here against him,
and know not how he will come off for such severe
actions. ½ p. |
|
(f) Jamaica, July 24, 1703. Admiral Graydon is
sailed from hence for England with all the ships of war
which attended this Island, except four of the smallest,
which ships will signify little in our defence, if we should
be attacked by the French and Spaniards, who are
in men much our superiors, 20 to 1, and will without
doubt invade this island as soon as they are masters
at sea, which I hope of you that are concerned this
way will remember and sollicite for speedy succours
by sea for us. Whenever you heare the French are
a sending any ships of war into these parts you may
conclude its for this Island, for we are informed by
prisoners from all parts that its agreed on by all the
Governors in the French and Spanish Dominions in
the West Indies to make a powerful attack upon us
on the first occasion that offers, and have agreed what
number of men each Government shall employ in the
expedition. God preserve us. ½ p. |
|
(g) Jamaica, July 7. Admiral Graydon is gone hence
about a fortnight past with a great fleet to attack a
French settlement at Newfoundland. He hath left
but 4 men of war and 2 fireships here, and those against
his will. Hee is moros and ill-tempered, and if he had
staid long here would have allmost ruined the Island by
his pressing allmost all sorts of people, and other ill
usage—in perticular his taking off a master of a vessell
on borde of his ship and whipped him for not going under
his sterne, tho' could not doe it without the hazard of
looseing his vessel, wch. is what has not bin before
practised by or to any Englishman. ½ p. |
|
(h) (i) (j) Corroborate above in general terms or by
hearsay. 3 pp. [C.O. 137, 45. Nos. 52, 52.i.—x.] |
