America and West Indies: May 1705

Calendar of State Papers Colonial, America and West Indies: Volume 22, 1704-1705. Originally published by His Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1916.

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Citation:

'America and West Indies: May 1705', in Calendar of State Papers Colonial, America and West Indies: Volume 22, 1704-1705, ed. Cecil Headlam( London, 1916), British History Online https://prod.british-history.ac.uk/cal-state-papers/colonial/america-west-indies/vol22/pp510-524 [accessed 29 November 2024].

'America and West Indies: May 1705', in Calendar of State Papers Colonial, America and West Indies: Volume 22, 1704-1705. Edited by Cecil Headlam( London, 1916), British History Online, accessed November 29, 2024, https://prod.british-history.ac.uk/cal-state-papers/colonial/america-west-indies/vol22/pp510-524.

"America and West Indies: May 1705". Calendar of State Papers Colonial, America and West Indies: Volume 22, 1704-1705. Ed. Cecil Headlam(London, 1916), , British History Online. Web. 29 November 2024. https://prod.british-history.ac.uk/cal-state-papers/colonial/america-west-indies/vol22/pp510-524.

May 1705

May 1.
Fleet Prison.
1083. J. Clifford to the Council of Trade and Plantations. My case has been waiting for near ten years, and I am reduced to that degree of want that without speedy relief both myself and my good wife must certainly perish. I pray that your honble. Board will cause inclosed petition to be read before H.M. in Council, whereby myself and my good wife may be relieved with bread. Signed, Jer. Clifford. Holograph. 1 p. [C.O. 388, 75. No. 122; and 389, 36. pp. 271, 272.]
May 2.
Whitehall.
1084. W. Popple, jr., to J. Clifford. In reply to letters (April 17, 21, 30) the Council of Trade and Plantations have and will continue to do all within their power for the dispatch of your affair. They have sent one of their clerks to solicit a final determination by the merchants to whom your accounts were referred. It is not usual for the Board to present any petition to H.M., for which reason they return your petition [May 1st]. [C.O. 389, 36. pp. 273, 274.]
May 2.
Whitehall.
1085. Council of Trade and Plantations to Sir Charles Hedges. We desire you would please to lay before H.M. the Additional Instruction for New Jersey, as likewise that for settling Ports in Maryland, and the warrants for using the new Seals in the Plantations, that, if possible, they may be sent to Col. Nott, who only waits now for a fair wind, after which there will be no other opportunity of conveyance for many months, etc. [C.O. 5, 994.A. p. 202.]
May 3.
St. James's.
1086. Order of Queen in Council. Upon reading Mr. Clifford's petition (cf. May 1st), Ordered that he be recommended to the Lord High Treasurer for some allowance whilst his case is depending, and that the Council of Trade and Plantations recommend the persons to whom his accounts are referred to hasten their report etc. Signed, John Povey. Endorsed, Recd. Read May 9, 1705. 1¼ pp. [C.O. 388, 75. No. 123; and 388, 36. pp. 274–276.]
[May 3.] 1087. S. Thomson to the Council of Trade and Plantations. The accusers of Governor Nicholson swear point-blank contrary to the Records. I never heard of any uneasiness of H.E. administration. The country seems to be without the least apprehension of any insurrection. Refers to Journal of Council to clear him of any partiality etc. Signed, S. Thomson. Endorsed, Recd. Read May 3, 1705. 1 closely written p. [C.O. 5, 1314. No. 58; and 5, 1361. pp. 201–204.]
May 3.
Whitehall.
1088. W. Popple, jr., to Mr. Jones, Secretary of Bermuda. The Council of Trade and Plantations having been informed that, notwithstanding the admonitions they gave you at your departure from hence, you have in several places since then taken some undecent liberties in speaking against H.M. Lieut. Governor of Bermuda, though they are unwilling to take this for truth, they order me however to give you this caution, that you take care to live in a peaceable and respectfull manner with the Governor, as their injunctions and your promise oblige you. [C.O. 38, 6. pp. 124, 125.]
May 3. 1089. Warrant for allowing and directing the use of a new Seal for ye Province of New Jersey. To our right trusty and well-beloved Edward Lord Viscount Cornbury, our Captain General and Governor in Chief of our Province of New Jersey and the territories depending thereon in America, and to the Commander in Chief of the said Province for the time being, greeting. Herewith you will receive a Seal appointed by us for the use of our Province of New Jersey and the territories depending thereon in America; the same being engraven on the one side with our Arms, Garter, Supporters, Motto and Crown, with this inscription round the same. Sig. Provinciæ nostræ de Nova Cæsarea in America, which said Seal we do hereby authorize and direct to be used in the sealing all patents and publick grants of lands, and all publick Acts and Instruments, which shall be made and passed in our name, and for our service within our said Province and the territories depending thereon, and that it be to all intents and purposes of the same force and validity as any former Seal within our Province or as any other Seal whatsoever appointed for the use of any of our Plantations in America. Countersigned, C. Hedges. [C.O. 5, 994.A. pp. 190–196.]
May 3. 1090. Similar warrant for a New Seal for New York "engraven on the one side with our Royal Effigies and two Indians kneeling and offering presents unto us, with our Royal titles round the circumference, and on the other side with our Royal Arms, with the Garter, Crown, Supporters and Motto, and this Inscription round the circumference, Sigillum Provinciæ nostræ novi Eboraci in America. [C.O. 5, 1120. pp. 289, 290.]
May 3. 1091. Draught of a warrant directing the use of a new Seal for the Leeward Islands, "engraven on the one side with our Royal Effigies in a Chariot drawn by two Sea-horses," and this inscription round the circumference, Sigillum Insularum St. Christopher, Nevis, Antegoa, Mountserrat etc., and on the other our Royal Coat of Arms etc., and title round the circumference. [C.O. 153, 9. pp. 120, 121.]
May 3. 1092. Similar Warrant for a new Seal for Maryland, engraven on the one side with the Royal Arms and title, and on the other "the Royal Cypher crowned, and this inscription round the circumference, Sigillum Provinciæ de Maryland in America." [C.O. 5, 726. p. 307.]
May 3. 1093. Similar warrant for a new Seal for the Massachusetts Bay, "engraven with our arms, Crown and Garter, and this inscription round the circumference, Sig. Reg. Provinciæ de Massachusets Bay in Nova Anglia in America, and this other Inscription, Anna D.G.M. Br. Fr. et Hib. Reg." etc. Former seals to be defaced and broken. [C.O. 5, 911. pp. 466, 467.]
May 3. 1094. Similar warrant for a new seal for New Hampshire, "engraven with our arms, Garter, Supporters, Motto and Crown, and this Inscription round the same, Sig. Provinciæ Nostræ Novæ Hamptoniæ in Americ." Former seals to be defaced and broken. [C.O. 5, 911. pp. 467–469.]
May 3. 1095. Similar Warrant for a new Seal for Bermuda. A new Seal, enclosed, to be used, "which Seal is engraven with our Arms, Garter, Supporters, Motto and Crown, with the Inscription round the same, Sigil. Insular. Nostrar. de Bermud. in Americ." [C.O. 38, 6. pp. 103, 104.]
May 3. 1096. Similar warrant for a new Seal for Virginia, which Seal is engraven with our arms, Garter and Crown, with this Inscription round the same, En dat Virginia Quintum. [C.O. 5, 1361. pp. 196, 197.]
May 3. 1097. Similar warrant for a new Seal for Barbados etc., "engraven on the one side with our Royal Effigies in a Charriot drawn by two Sea-Horses, and this motto in the circumference, Et penitus toto regnantes orbe Britannos, and on the other side with our Royal Coat of Arms, with the Garter, Crown, Supporters and Motto, and our titles round the circumference, with this addition, Domina Barbadæ et Insularum Charbearum," etc. [C.O. 29, 9. pp. 282, 283.]
May 4.
Whitehall.
1098. Sir Charles Hedges to the Council of Trade and Plantations. It is H.M. pleasure that you give the reasons for putting the command of the garrison in Newfoundland into the hands of the Captain of the Convoy, and what inconvenience there may be, if it be not done, and whether you have observed any to arise to the Colony when it was otherwise. The Additional Instructions for New Jersey and Maryland etc. are signed by H.M. Signed, C. Hedges. Endorsed, Recd. Read May 8, 1705. 1 p. [C.O. 194, 3. No. 55; and 195, 3. pp. 438, 439.]
May 4.
Crotchet Fryers.
1099. Mr. Merrett to [? Sir Charles Hedges]. Pursuant to your commands I send you the copy of what I laid before your Honour March 21 relating to Placentia. For the more effectually keeping this design private (as yr. Hon. was of the opinion) the detachment of the force sent thither should be made from Lisbon to saile by the middle of August next, the Office of Ordnance to have orders in time to take up a ship at Lisbon on pretence to carry them to the West Indies or New England, with a man of war for convoy, to open their orders at sea etc. Capt. Lloyd to have a Commission to be sole Commander of this expedition etc. Signed, Solomon Merrett. ½ p. [C.O. 194, 22. No. 18.]
[May 4.] 1100. Sir H. Ashhurst, Agent for Connecticut, to the Council of Trade and Plantations. The Act [complained of, April 21] was made 32 years ago, and intended chiefly for the suppression of persons called Adamites and Ranters, and if the same be now in force, it is looked upon as obsolete, nor do the petitioners so much as insinuate that any one of their Friends have undergone any of the penaltys of the said Law. There are sufficient witnesses in the Town that can testifie that the Quakers live as peaceably in this Colony as in any other H.M. Plantations. The Established Religion in this Country is the same with the Church of England in doctrine, and the inhabitants of the country do not enjoy their Religion by an Act of Toleration, as Petitioners set forth, but by the Law of the Country made in H.M. Royall Predecessor's time, when they first became a Colony. Within this 3 or 4 years there have been more complaints against that poor Colony, without any crimes proved, then ever was since they were a Colony, that makes him believe there are some persons disafected to H.M. Governmt. that are endeavouring by all means to make them weary of their Charter Governmt., under which by the grace and favour of H.M. Royal Predecessors they have enjoyed an uninterrupted peace and quiet for many years last past, and would have done so to this day, had it not been for the fals representation of a Governor since H.M. happy accession sent into those parts, who ordered the printing of this Act at Boston two years ago on purpose that the Quakers here might joyne with his other engines set on work with their loud clamours to prevaile with the Governmnt. here to take away their Charter unheard. Prays their Lordships to await the Reply of the Colony etc. Signed, Hen. Ashhurst. Endorsed, Recd. Read May 4, 1705. 2¾ pp. [C.O. 5, 1263. No. 16.]
[May 8.] 1101. (a) Copy of a Proclamation by Governor Sir B. Granville against spreading false, malicious and scandalous news. Jan. 24, 1705. 1 p.
(b) Copy of an Order by the same to Mr. Hinton, Deputy Postmaster. You are to take out my letters from the packet in the presence of the Secretary and his clerk only, and to take the names of all such persons as shall presume to goe on board the packett-boat before the Capt. hath been with me. Neither are you to deliver any letters out of your Office till you see ye Capt. coming on horse-back to me. Dec. 23, 1704. The whole endorsed, May 8, 1705. ½ p. [C.O. 28, 7. Nos. 153, 153.i.]
May 8. 1102. Committee of the Proprietors of the Eastern Division of New Jersey to the Council of Trade and Plantations. They are ready to dispatch Peter Sonmans, their Agent, and pray that he may be appointed of the Council to fill one of the two vacancies. The Agent for the West Jersey Society, Col. Morris, has already obtained that favour, a point on which the Proprietors insisted before surrendering the Government, and which the Board has always recognised as reasonable. Signed, Wm. Dockwra, Sec. and Reg. Endorsed, Recd. Read May 8, 1705. 1½ pp. [C.O. 5, 970. No. 29.]
[May 8.] 1103. C. Hobby to the Council of Trade and Plantations. About June, 1703, Governor Dudley persuaded petitioner to fit out his brigantine, the Charles, as a privateer, and she sailed in July from Boston. The commander, Daniel Plowman, soon after dying, the ship's company chose John Quelch, one of their crew, to be their commander, and went a pyrating, and committed several acts of pyracies upon the subjects of the King of Portugal, and in May following returned to Boston with their booty. Whereupon John Coleman, Agent there for H.R.H. the Lord High Admiral, discovering that Quelch and crew had committed pyracy, Quelch and divers of his crew were executed, and the vessell and effects forfeited. The owners having at the request of the Governor and purely for the service of the country at their own charge fitted out the vessel, it will be a very great hardship unless they have some compensation for their loss. Prays that the Board will not make any report until H.R.H. shall have made some determination herein. Signed, Charles Hobby. Endorsed, Recd. Read May 8, 1705. 3 pp. [C.O. 5, 863. No. 136.]
May 8.
Whitehall.
1104. W. Popple, jr., to Governor Lord Cornbury. Encloses Additional Instructions relating to New Jersey, and New Seals, with H.M. Warrant, for New York and New Jersey. [C.O. 5, 994.A. p. 203.]
May 8.
Whitehall.
1105. W. Popple, jr., to Governor Nott. Encloses new Seal for Virginia and H.M. warrant (May 3) etc. [C.O. 5, 1361. p. 215.]
May 8.
Whitehall.
1106. W. Popple. jr., to Governor Dudley. Encloses new seals and warrants for using them [see May 3]. [C.O. 5, 911. p. 470.]
May 8.
Whitehall.
1107. W. Popple, jr., to Governor Seymour. Encloses warrant and seal and additional Instructions [May 3] etc. [C.O. 5, 726. p. 311.]
May 8.
Portsmouth.
1108. Governor Dudley to Mr. Popple. I have been in this Province about 20 dayes with the Assembly, who have past 3 Acts only, the first agreable to their Lordships' command referring to the salary, the other two being the graunt of the excise and impost, and the graunt of 800l. to H.M. for payment of their debts. I have adventured to send them by this conveyance by Lisbon, not foreseeing any oportunity these 6 months more directly. I hope they will be acceptable to their Lordships etc. Refers to the case of Mr. Allen as in following. Signed, J. Dudley. Endorsed, Recd. 24 July, 1705, Read Feb. 27, 1706/7. Holograph. 1½ pp. [C.O. 5, 864. No. 94: and 5, 912. pp. 261, 262.]
May 9.
Portsmouth.
1109. Governor Dudley to Wm. Blathwayt. I have sincerely intended to obey your commands referring to Mr. Allin's affairs, but could not get hither through the snow and storms till 20 daies since, and I have had an Assembly with me all this time, and to make the matter more easy and sure, have sent to every town to chuse and impower two Commissioners to treat with Mr. Allin, and they got two daies since so far as all of them to signe enclosed. Mr. Allin was with me all the time, with a great deal of thankfullnesse for the care taken to move this affair forward, but four daies since fell sick, and yesterday died of a very malignant fever, and is to be interred to-morrow at the fort at New Castle. Mr. Thomas Allin, his only son, being at this time waiting on you, will I hope have the favour to be directed and governed by you. Referring to the offer of the Assembly, it is as far as I could by any means draw them, and whether Mr. Allin had accepted it or no, I am of opinion that it was his great advantage to move so forward if but by degrees. The first Article is a hearty recognition of Mr. Allin's title and sincere in its promise, and I do not doubt if peace comes to make 4,000l. at least of that 500,000 acres, being much better land than any already planted. The 2nd Article saves 5,000 acres amongst their towns, which will be good farms or would presently sell for 1,000l., the 3rd Article gives him 2,000l. The 4th confirms all Mr. Mason and Mr. Allin's leases, bona fide, but barrs such as have taken other men's houses and lands over their heads before ejectment, which I think is agreable to law, and then his money is secured, and the Tenants pray that H.M. may establish and ratifye the agreement, for fear any mortgages or intanglements should appear, as Mr. Usher's do's already upon record. Besides what those Articles refer to, Mr. Allin has his Sagadehoc Nichewannock, which are worth 1,000l. in peace, and after the rates abovesaid, and all his challenge on the other side of Merrimack, which, if he can enter upon, is very much superior to what is sold, or intended so to be, to these four towns, which will make the whole a considerable summe. I once read these Articles to Mr. Allin the day before his death, and referred them to a further consideration without any apprehension of his death, but the whole matter is new now, and how Mr T. Allin and Mr. Usher will agree to put the affair forward I know not. They shall have my hearty endeavour in everything, but Mr. Usher will not be capable to be served by me, being so very unlike Mr. Allin's even and agreeable temper. If there be any advantage to the heir of Mr. Allin's by the proceedure so far, I am glad, if otherwise I ask pardon. This day the Governour and Councill were to hear the Appeal from the Superiour Court, as the Letters Patents and the Law requires, but the Appellant is removed and the matter must lie, untill the heirs pursue, there is no will that I hear of to be found. I hope Mr. Allin will be directed by you. Signed, J. Dudley. Endorsed, Recd. Dec. 1705. 2½ pp. [C.O. 5, 863. No. 137; and 5, 912. pp. 29–32.]
[May 10.] 1110. Virginia Merchants to the Council of Trade and Plantations. Propose that H.M. stop the merchants who are undertaking the manufacture of tobacco in Russia [April 24] and that steps be taken to preserve our trade with Russia and the Baltic. Endorsed, Recd. Read May 10, 1705. 1 p. [C.O. 5, 1314. No. 57; and 5, 1361. pp. 216, 217.]
May 10. 1111. Messrs. Shepheard and Gardner to the Council of Trade and Plantations. We are of opinion that the sentences given against Mr. Jeronimo Clifford by the Government of Surinam were unjust, and that the States General of the United Provinces, or the West India Company of Holland, or Society of Surinam ought to pay him for costs and damages, as set forth 13,514l. 11s. 6d. We have made no estimate for his sufferings, but find that he has been barbarously treated and highly abused and wronged. Signed, Sam. Shepheard, John Gardner. Endorsed, Recd. Read May 10, 1705. Copy. 10 pp. [C.O. 388, 75. No. 124; and 389, 36. pp. 276–292.]
May 10. 1112. W. Popple, jr., to Mr. Clifford. Encloses preceding for his observations thereupon. [C.O. 389, 36. p. 293.]
May 10.
Whitehall.
1113. Council of Trade and Plantations to the Queen. Enclose following:—
1113. i. Draught of Instructions to Daniel Park for the Government of the Leeward Islands. Same as those given to Gov. Codrington, C.S.P. 1699. No. 766, with following alterations and additions. Counsellors' names:—Nevis: Lt.-Gov. John Johnson, John Smergin (for Smer), and the others named in No. 112 supra, omitting James Thynn. Antegoa: As named in No. 112, excepting John Fry and James Thynn, and adding George Gambell and Christopher Codrington. Mountserrat: As No. 112, excepting William Fox, John Scott and James Thynn, and adding Wm. Broderick, George Wike and Wm. Gerish. St. Christopher's. Same as No. 112, excepting James Thynn. The style of enacting Laws is to be by Governor, Council and Assembly, and, in making them, different matters are to be provided for by different Acts. A complete Collection of all the Laws in force to be made and transmitted. Neither Governor nor Lieut. Governors to receive presents from the Assembly, except house-rent, if assigned at the first session after his arrival and for the whole time of their Governnmt. The Governor to receive 1,200l. per annum and the Lieut. Governors 200l. out of the 4½ p.c. You are to endeavour, in consideration of our care in exempting our good subjects from the customary burden of presents, to induce the Assemblies to contribute in more ample and effectual manner to their own safety and preservation, and to communicate this declaration of our will and pleasure to the several Assemblies at their first meeting after your arrival. The same to be entered in the registers of the Councils and Assemblies. Directions given concerning care of correspondence, pirates and pirates' goods, power of the Vice-Admiralty, the granting of Commissions to privateers, suspending Captains of men of war, as April 20 supra.
A survey to be made of the fortifications and accounts thereof sent half-yearly. The harbours and landingplaces to be surveyed, and fortifications erected, with the advice of the Council, as thought necessary, at the publick charges. The duty of 4½ p.c. will not be sufficient for compleating and keeping in repair all the fortifications etc., and you are therefore to move the respective Assemblies to continue the public levies for that purpose and other public services, in which we doubt not of their cheerful concurrence from the common security and benefit they will receive thereby. You are to give encouragement to the officers of the Admiralty and Customs, and assist the officers appointed to recover arrears due for prizes brought into the Leeward Islands in the last war. You are to give an account of your neighbours, be they Indians or others, their strength and plantations. … Courts of Justice to be duly and frequently held so that all our subjects, and particularly the Royal African Company, may enjoy the benefit thereof and not receive any undue hindrance in the recovery of their just debts. … Appeals to H.M. in Council to be permitted in cases of fines of 200l. or over. … You are to get a law passed to make bankrupts' estates liable to answer debts contracted in England. In case of death or absence of Governor, Lieutenant General of the Islands and Lieut. Governor of Nevis, then the Council of Nevis shall take upon them the administration of the Government, but shall forbear to pass any Acts but what are immediately necessary, etc. All writs are to be issued in the Queen's name. We hereby empower you to do anything for the immediate advantage and security of the Islands, with consent of the Council, giving speedy notice thereof, for our ratification. Not to declare war without H.M. commands. To send accounts of all proceedings.
1113. ii. Instructions to Governor Parke relating to the Acts of Trade. [C.O. 153, 9. pp. 137–232.]
May 10.
Whitehall.
1114. Council of Trade and Plantations to the Queen. Enclose following:
1114. i. Draft of H.M. Warrant for using the new Seal of Jamaica. [C.O. 138, 11. pp. 395–397.]
May 12.
Fleet Prison.
1115. Jeronimy Clifford to the Council of Trade and Plantations. I am very much wronged by the Report (May 10), as may be seen by the enclosed etc. Signed, Jer. Clifford. Endorsed, Recd. Read May 23, 1705. Holograph. 2 pp. Enclosed,
1115. i. Abstract of Mr. Clifford's Accounts. 3½ pp. [C.O. 388, 75. Nos. 125, 125.i.]
May 12. 1116. Capt. Lloyd to Mr. Secretary Hedges. Recommends, according to command, Robert Lasham (? Latham) and Thomas Phillips to be Lieutenants to the Independent Company in Newfoundland etc. Signed, Tho. Lloyd. [C.O. 194, 22. Nos. 20; and (duplicate dated May 9) 21.]
May 16. 1117. Capt. Lloyd to Mr. Secretary Hedges. Last year was sent, by ye Commissioners for Victualing, to ye company at Newfoundland, meal in lew of Biskett, which being useless in that country for want of ovens etc., I pray they be ordered to avoid that method, and also order money to buy melosses instead of malt for beer etc. It will be so late in ye year before I arrive in Newfoundland, yt. I shall not have time to provide some things I did intend to do there in relation to Platientia; and therefore pray your Honour will give orders yt. 18 scaleing ladders, of 22ft. long each, be provided, that they be made in joynts and put up in chests. Signed, Tho. Lloyd. Holograph. 2 pp. [C.O. 194, 22. No. 19.]
[? May 16.] 1118. Memorandum of above, and other notes concerning the fleet for Newfoundland etc. [? by Sir Charles Hedges]. ½ p. [C.O. 194, 22. No. 34.]
May 16.
Whitehall.
1119. Council of Trade and Plantations to Mr. Secretary Hedges. Reply to No. 1098. The usage had its origin from our Representation (C.S.P., 1698, No. 912). There being no Governor to see good order kept amongst H.M. subjects (in Newfoundland), which are very numerous in the fishing season, and we having often received from thence (notwithstanding the said Commission) complaints as well from the soldiers against their officers, as of inhabitants against officers and soldiers, we thought this Commission necessary because the said officers and soldiers will not be otherwise under any cheek from any power lodged there, and the inhabitants and fishermen deprived of all speedy relief, if any abuses be put upon them. It is also very necessary for the security of the Fort, for his inspection thereof etc. Before it was built, about 7 years since, there was no Company of soldiers at Newfoundland. The Commodores carry every year Instructions to make Enquiries, to which they may be disabled from making a full return, if their authority should be diminished. We are humbly of opinion that it is necessary for H.M. service that the said powers to the Commodores be continued. 2½ pp. [C.O. 195, 3. pp. 439–442; and 194, 22. No. 22.]
May 16.
Barbados.
1120. Governor Sir B. Granville to the Council of Trade and Plantations. A pacquet boat arrived the 13th inst., but bringing me no letters from your Lordships. I have not any unanswered except that of March 6. Enclosed is a copy of mine by the last ordinary, on board which I had sent all the Laws, and other publick papers; that pacquet was unfortunately taken after her departure hence between Nevis and Antigua, and the duplicates cannot be ready of all to come by this, but they will by the fleet wch. is to sail according to the time limitted them in 25 dayes. I shall very strictly observe all your commands, and particularly prevent any more addresses coming directly from the Assembly by Agents of their own; and if I did not so much oppose it before as I ought otherwise to have done, it was in matters wherein I was accused, and this did more immediately show the sense of the generality, in opposition to the clamours of the few who had bin so loud in England, then any representation of my own could doe. I am very thankfull to your Lops. for their being received so favorably. I can't think but everything before this is before your Lops. that may be necessary to my justification, which I alwaies thought would more clearly appear from the publick Minutes, they being my vouchers, then from any explanation or glosses I should make. I can't well make a regular answer till I know what they swear: I have seen their petition, but if they swear to any one article as it is laid down against me, they are forsworn. I can't believe but this matter is by this time evident to your Lordships, and it is with great earnestnesse and impatience I expect your determination in regard to H.M. service and my own honour. Sir Wm. Whetstone with the fleet and convoys from England arrived here April 28th, and sailed again the 1st inst. for the Leeward Islands, intending to touch there in his way to Jamaica. Signed, Bevill Granville. Endorsed, Recd. 6th, Read Aug. 10th, 1705. Holograph. 3 pp. [C.O. 28, 9. No. 1; and 29, 9. pp. 358–360.]
May 17.
St. James's.
1121. Order of Queen in Council. Warrant for using the new Seal of Jamaica [May 10] to be prepared for H.M. signature. Signed, John Povey. Endorsed, Recd. Read Sept. 25, 1705. 1 p. [C.O. 137, 7. No. 11; and 138, 11. p. 414.]
May 17.
St. James's.
1122. Order of Queen in Council. Mr. Secretary Hedges is to prepare the Instructions for Governor Park [May 10], for H.M. signature. Signed, John Povey. Endorsed, Recd. Read Sept. 25, 1705. 1 p. [C.O. 152, 6. No. 21; and 153, 9. pp. 259, 260; and 152, 39. No. 103.]
May 19.
On board the Kingston in Plymouth Sound, May 19th past a 11 a clock noone.
1123. Col. Nott to Mr. Popple, [jr.]. Acknowledges letter etc. of May 8. Signed, Edw. Nott. Endorsed, Recd. Read May 30, 1705. 1 p. [C.O. 5, 1314. No. 61; and 5, 1361. p. 232.]
May 22.
Broad Street.
1124. N. Gould to Mr. Popple. Encloses following. Signed, Nathl. Gould. 1 p.
1124. i. Merchants concerned in the contract with the Czar of Muscovy to the Council of Trade and Plantations. State their case. [See April 24th.] Signed, Nath. Gould, Wm. Dawsoune, Edw. Haistwell, Sam. Heathcote. London, May 23, 1705. 2½ pp. [C.O. 5, 1314. Nos. 59, 59.i.; and 5, 1361. pp. 218–224.]
May 23.
Whitehall.
1125. Council of Trade and Plantations to Governor Handasyd. We have during our consideration of the affairs of Jamaica been attended by Mr. Wm. Lindal, who now goes over Captain of a Company in your Regiment, and recommend him to your favour. [C.O. 138, 11. p. 398.]
[May 23.] 1126. Copy of a Draught of a New Patent, upon the granting of which Mr. Penn is willing to surrender the Government of Pennsylvania to H.M. With the comments and criticisms of the Board of Trade in the margins. Endorsed, Recd. Read May 23, 1705. 24¼ pp. [C.O. 5, 1263. No. 17.]
[? May 23.] 1127. Jeronimy Clifford to the Council of Trade and Plantations. Corrects error in accounts, May 12, and prays that he may be subsisted by H.M. bounty till his affair is settled. Signed, Jer. Clifford. Endorsed, Recd. Read May 23, 1705. Holograph. 1 p. Enclosed,
1127. i. Corrected account as above. 1¾ pp. [C.O. 388, 75. Nos. 126, 126.i.]
May 24.
Whitehall.
1128. Council of Trade and Plantations to the Queen. Refer to Order in Council, Feb. 10, 1703, and report No. 1111. We are of opinion the several articles thereof are clearly and fairly stated, and that the justice of Clifford's case is such as may deserve your Majesties grace and favour for the more speedy recovery of his debts by the renewal of your Majesties royal intercession with ye States General. [C.O. 389, 36. pp. 295, 296.]
May 24.
Nevis.
1129. Col. Codrington to the Council of Trade and Plantations. I have what I aim'd at, tho' I have been denyd the Government, ye assurance of yr. Lordsps.' good opinion, and ye honour of the representation you intended are infinitely more valuable than this or any other post, tho' I should have been pleased with H.M. acceptance of my services etc. Signed, Chr. Codrington. Endorsed, Recd. 6th, Read Aug. 10th, 1705. Holograph. 1 p. [C.O. 152, 6. No. 15; and 153, 9. p. 242.]
May 24.
Nevis.
1130. Lt. Governor Johnson to the Council of Trade and Plantations. Enclosed are accounts of the Imports and Exports to and from this Island (except what is in boates or sloopes transported daily from Island to Island for their mutuall maintenance, which 'tis believed your Honours don't expect account of, being so very intricate and troublesome) from Jan. 12 to Aprill 12 last. The like accounts for the preceeding 3 months had gone by the former packet boate, had she not been unfortunately taken neer this Island, ere she gott into either of the Leeward Islands, but now those accounts do go too by this packet boate. Signed, Jon. Johnson. Endorsed, Recd. 6th, Read Aug. 10th, 1705. 1 p. [C.O. 152. 6. No. 17; and 153, 9. p. 247.]
May 25. 1131. Capt. Lloyd to Mr. Secretary Hedges. The money for the subsistance of the Company at Newfoundland is ordered to be paid to Mr. Thurston, the Agent, who after having always made the officers uneasy by confounding their accounts and other impositions, has now quitted the Agency. Prays that the Order be made payable to himself or his Agent, etc. Signed, Tho. Lloyd. 1 p. Enclosed,
1131. i. Extract of letter from Mr. Thurston to Capt. Cartwright, Secretary to the Comptroller of the Army. April 17, 1705. I have more than once acquainted Capt. Lloyd that I would have noe further to do with the Company at Newfoundland etc. 1 p.
1131. ii. Mr. Thurston to Mr. Lloyd. March 12. I am resolved to have no further to do with that business. The last time I met Capt. Lloyd upon that head, I was used so very coarsly by him, as that I cannot consent to any other meeting etc. Signed, J. Thurston. Addressed. 1 p. [C.O. 194, 22. Nos. 23, 23.i., ii.; and (duplicates) 24, 24.i., ii.]
May 25.
London.
1132. J. Vaux to W. Popple. The man sent to spin and roll tobacco in Muscovy was Peter Marshall. Signed, John Vaux. Endorsed, Recd. Read May 26, 1705. Addressed. ½ p. [C.O. 5, 1314. No. 60; and 5, 1361. p. 231.]
May 26. 1133. Capt. Lloyd to [? John Tucker]. Having yesterday given in a memorial to Mr. Secretary Hedges about Newfoundland and omitted to represent the inconveniencys may attend H.M. service for want of a power to punish deserters and mutineers by Court Martial, I humbly desire you'l offer this to his consideration. Signed, Tho. Lloyd. 1 p. [C.O. 194, 22. No. 25.]
May 26.
Whitehall.
1134. Council of Trade and Plantations to Mr. Secretary Harley. Enclose following [see April 24, and May 10 and 22].
1134. i. Report on manufacture of tobacco in Muscovy. Propose that no persons versed in that Mystery and no instrument for the same be allowed to be sent there, such "proceedings being of the most pernicious consequence to the trade of your Majesty's subjects and the welfare of your Plantations"; and that H.M. Envoy assist all H.M. subjects to a free trade in tobacco there. Set out, Acts of Privy Council, II, pp. 487–489. [C.O. 5, 1361. pp. 225–230.]
May 26. 1135. Lt.-Governor Johnson to the Council of Trade and Plantations. I thought by this time in obedience to your Lordships' commands to have sent collections of the laws for the four Islands, but it being what has never been practised here before, I with great difficulty got these for the Island[s] of Nevis, the faults I hope your Lordships will excuse, and let me know, that they may be corrected; per next packquett I hope to send the laws of the other three Islands. Repeats following. Signed, Jon. Johnson. Endorsed, Recd. 6th, Read Aug. 10th, 1705. Holograph. 1 p. [C.O. 152, 6. No. 18; and 153, 9. p. 249.]
May 26.
(Nevis.)
1136. Lt. Gov. Johnson to [? Sir Charles Hedges]. Since my last, the pacquett whereof one Dudley was Commander, was very unfortunately taken in the sight of these Islands. We have received 100 prisoners from Martinique since my last. The Islands are very healthy. Signed, Jon. Johnson. Endorsed, R. 6 Aug. 1 p. [C.O. 152, 39. No. 105.]
May 26.
Nevis.
1137. Lt. Governor Johnson to the Council of Trade and Plantations. The inclosed papers give a true and just accot. of all the Proceedings against Mr. Vanbell in this Island. I am very well informed the Court proceeded with the greatest caution immaginable and heard all that cou'd be offered by Mr. Vanbell's Councell on his behalfe, before they dismist the libell. I find likewise it has been allwaies practicable for the Generall, or in their absence or death, for the Governors or President and Councill of Nevis to hold Courts of Admiralty in their proper persons, if they think fitt, and then and their preside and determine causes. Mr. Vanbell's Agents did demur to the jurisdiction of the Court because they were parties to the forfeitures, perhaps they will do the same before the Councill, H.M. being likewise a party and entituled to one third of the forfeitures. What sort of practise or combination there might be between the then Governor of St. Christophers and Mr. Vanbell I know not, it is plain the negroes etc. were imported directly contrary to the Acts of Parliament resited in the libell, and the Comissioner of H.M. Customes did nothing but what he was obliged to, by virtue of his oath; this is plaine fact upon the strictest enquiry; we cannot preserve our Records so authentick as wee would, by reason of the vermine and other casualties, but these are sufficiently attested; the Commissioner Mead is dead, his executors in England, and wholy ignorant of all transactions, and I believe bond delivered up, and the mony apportioned as the law directs. Signed, Jon. Johnson. Endorsed as preceding. 1 p. Enclosed,
1137. i. Minutes of a Court of Admiralty held at Nevis, May 3–25, 1699, relating to the case of Mr. Vanbelle. [See C.S.P., 1699, Nos. 666, 685.i., etc.] Upon the information of Wm. Mead, 50 negroes imported in a foreign vessel were confiscated, the claimers, Capt. Michael Lambert and Capt. Edwd. Perrie, not appearing, in spite of several adjournments, to prove they were legally imported. Signed, John Smargin, jr., Dep. Sec. Endorsed, Recd. Aug. 6, 1705. 2½ pp.
1137. ii. Copy of Information of Wm. Mead referred to in preceding. Same endorsement. 1½ pp. [C.O. 152, 6. Nos. 19, 19.i., ii.; and (without enclosures) 153, 9. pp. 250–253.]
May 30.
Whitehall.
1138. Council of Trade and Plantations to Governor Sir B. Granville. Enclose new Seal, with warrant. You are to cause the former seal to be brok before you in Council and transmitted to this Board etc. [C.O. 29, 9. p. 303.]
May 30.
Whitehall.
1139. Council of Trade and Plantations to Lt. Governor Bennett. Enclose new Seal etc. as preceding. [C.O. 38, 6. pp. 125, 126.]
May 30.
Whitehall.
1140. W. Popple, jr., to Mr. Burchett. The Council of Trade and Plantations desire that the enclosed Commission for trying pirates in Newfoundland may be sent to the Commodore of the Convoy, with directions to leave it with the Commanding Officer of the garrison at his departure, which is again to be put into the hands of the next Commodore the succeeding year etc. [C.O. 195, 3. p. 443.]
May 31. 1141. Governor Parke to the Council of Trade and Plantations. I think it my duty to lay before your Lordships the state of the Leeward Islands in respect to the troops that are now on those Islands. There is at present but one Regiment, which is commanded by Col. Whetham, who with his Lieut. Col. are now, and have been some time in England, solliciting the return of the Regiment. According to the muster taken Feb. 24, there were then no more than 287 private men, the Major and six Capts., besides Lts. and Ensignes. Urges that speedy care be taken that one compleat Regiment be there at least, and that Col. Whetham's be either recruited or relieved; or otherwise the Islands to be on the same foot as during the last warr, that is, to have 5 Companys of 100 in each, to be commanded by a Col., 4 Capts. and 10 Lts., which will save to the Queen half the expence and be more agreeable to the Planters, by easing them of the burthen of quartering of so many Officers. I am of opinion that the 287 men are at this time not more than 200, and if the Queen shall think fitt to releive Col. Whetham's Regiment. I am informed the private men (the major part of them at least) would be willing to remaine there; so that if the Officers are sent for, the Regiment will be still preserved and the Queen save 2,000l. at least by the transport of 200 men theither and back; and one of those seasoned men is better there than two that shall be sent, so that the releiving Col. Whetham's Regiment should be by sending the Officers of another Regiment with a sufficient number of men to make up those there a compleat Regiment. Or if it shall be thought more advisable to have 500 men in 5 Companies, and that no troops can be spared till after the expedition be over, if H.M. grant an order, one man of war with one transport ship may be sent from the Grand Fleet with a detachment from those troops of 300 men, with 4 Capts. and 10 Lieuts. And if your Lordships thinks it proper I will take some opportunity of goeing to the Grand Fleet with the order, and that way transport myself, which will be an other expence saved to the Queen. Since I waited on your Lordships, I was with Admirall Churchill to desire a ship, I was answer'd, no ship cou'd as yett be spared. As to my own part. I have been ready ever since I had an order for a Commission, and Mr. Secretary Hedges tells me my Instructions will be signed next Councill. I have now nothing to do but to wait your Lordships' commands, and an opportunity of transporting myself to my Government; I desire your Lordships will lay this whole matter before the Queen in Councill, that something may be done therein. Signed, Daniell Parke. Endorsed, Recd. Read June 5, 1705. 3 pp. [C.O. 152, 6. No. 14; and 153, 9. pp. 235–238.]