|
| Feb. 2. |
37. Governor Rogers to [? Mr. Secretary Craggs.] Here
arrived a sloop this morning from Barbadoes that in her passage
got intelligence of the two pirates aforesaid it's one Moody in a
ship of 22 guns and one England in a brigantine, and not Congon
(v. 30th Jan.) etc. I hope I shall be able to resist them and not
be obliged to receive such villains that I should be glad could
I have the assistance of the men of war to bring them to justice
if they come. Signed, Woodes Rogers. Endorsed, Recd.
London, 24 June, 1719. 1 p. [C.O. 23, 13. ff. 30, 30v.;
and (duplicate) 35v., 36.] |
Feb. 2.
Albany. |
38. John Riggs to Charles Delafaye. Applies for H.M.
Commission to command the Independent Company of Col.
Mathew, decd. and for "your dr. Lieut. Dick" to be his
lieutenant (v. 11th May, 1717) etc., etc. Private affairs.
Signed, John Riggs. Addressed. 1 p. [C.O. 5, 1092. No. 6.] |
Feb. 3.
Whitehall. |
39. Council of Trade and Plantations to Mr. Secretary
Craggs. Reply to Memorial of Danish Envoy (v. 31st Dec.,
1718.) We have reason to apprehend H.M. Leeward Islands
are so far from being in a condition to afford the assistance to
the Danish Colony at St. Thomas, desir'd by the Memorial,
that they will need all their strength for their own defence in
case the Spaniards should design to make an attempt on some
one of those Islands, which it is probable they may, if it be true,
as is set forth in the Memorial, that the Spanish Governour of
Porto Rico has already under his command there three ships
of war and three sloops of 12 guns each, and expects a reinforcement of troops from Spain. Besides we believe H.M.
subjects of the Leeward Islands would be very unwilling at
any time to bear any extraordinary charge, or be expos'd to
any hazard in defence of that Danish Colony (which they have
so frequently complain'd of as being very prejudicial to them
in many respects) and would think the hardship so much the
greater now the Danes seem to want this assistance, chiefly
by reason of their having remov'd part of their force from St.
Thomas to support the settlement they have lately made
on the Island of St. Johns, one of the Virgin Islands belonging
to H.M. For these reasons therefore we are of opinion that
the prayer of the said Memorial is not proper to be complyed
with. We think ourselves obliged on this occasion to acquaint
you that the Govr. of the Leeward Islands seems by a letter,
we lately receiv'd from him, to be very impatient to have
orders from H.M. concerning the settlement the Danes have
made on the Island of St. Johns, a particular accompt of which
we transmitted to you by our letter of the 1st of July last, and
having in our Representation of the 18th of the said month
fully express'd our opinion on that subject, we shall now only
repeat that we believe it absolutely necessary the Danes should
be dispos'd by such means. as H.M. may judge most proper
to remove the settlement they have made at St. Johns, and
that neither they nor any foreign Nation should ever be allow'd
to settle on any of the Virgin Islands. [C.O. 153, 13. pp. 388–390.] |
| [Feb. 3.] |
40. Copy of Act of Pennsylvania concerning feme sole traders
(v 17th Jan.). Endorsed, Recd. Read (from Mr. Drafgate)
3rd Feb., 1718/19. 3½ pp. [C.O. 5, 1265. No. 113.] |
| [Feb. 3.] |
41. Petition of Samuel Buck to the Council of Trade and
Plantations. Encloses following, received since petition of
2nd Jan. q. v., and presses for immediate succour for the Bahama
Islands. Signed, Sam. Buck. Endorsed, Recd. Read 3rd
Feb., 1718/19. ¾ p. Enclosed, |
|
41. i. Extract of letter from George Dawes of Jamaica to
Saml. Buck, 7th Nov. 1718. We have advice from
all parts that the Spaniards are fitting out everywhere
to destroy Providence; they have for above 12 months
taken everything they met with that they cou'd in
these parts. About 14 days ago a sloop from Vera
Crux brought advice of two men of war and 5 or 6
sail of other vessels fitting there, which were to sail
soon after them to join others at the Havannah for
their expedition against Providence, and by a small
scooner from thence lately, we hear that the men of
war were gone to Barbados etc. Repeats news from
the Bahamas v. Oct. 31st, 1718. 1 p. [C.O. 23, 1.
Nos. 13, 13. i.] |
Feb. 4.
Whitehall. |
42. Council of Trade and Plantations to Mr. Secretary
Craggs. Reply to 29th Jan. Refer to preceding. Conclude:
We need not repeat what we have frequently represented,
vizt. the consequence of securing the Bahama Islands to the
Crown, but we must desire, you would please to lay before H.M.
our opinion that it is absolutely necessary another independent
company or the like number of men, one small ship of war and
some large artillery and stores should be sent for their security
and protection, and that this should be done without loss of
time, least this settlement, which is of the greatest consequence
to the whole trade of the West Indies should be lost to the Crown
of Great Britain. Autograph signatures. 2 pp. [C.O. 23, 12.
No. 78; and 24, 1. pp. 24–26.] |
| Feb. 4. |
43. Mr. Dummer to [?Mr. Popple.] Proposes to bring to
the Board several merchants who can inform them about the
curing fish at Marblehead. etc. Signed, Jer. Dummer. Endorsed, Recd. 3rd, Read 4th Feb., 1718/19. 1 p. [C.O. 5, 867.
No. 26.] |
Feb. 4.
Custom House. London. |
44. Mr. Carkesse to Mr. Popple. Encloses account of
timber imported, as requested 8th Jan. [C.O. 389, 27. p. 108.] |
Feb. 5.
Whitehall. |
45. Mr. Popple to Jacob Ackworth, Surveyor of the Navy.
There being a petition depending for a grant of lands in Nova
Scotia. the Council of Trade and Plantations desire to know
whether the Commissrs. of the Navy do not think it proper
there should be a clause in the grant. reserving such trees to
the Crown as are proper for masts and of such oak or other trees
as may be fit for the Royal Navy, in which case they desire
you would send them a draught of a clause for that purpose etc.
[C.O. 217, 2. p. 377.] |
Feb. 5.
Virginia. |
46. Lt. Governor Spotswood to Mr. Popple. I very lately
had ye happyness of receiving your letter dated ye 14th of
Octr. last, and with much pleasure accept the commission you
give me, for serving you with the plants and seeds you write
for etc. None of your letters has come to my hands since yours
dated this day two years; since which time I have wrote very
largely to you. I have good reason to apprehend that they
have been intercepted by some undue practices [erasure], and
that some of those persons, whom he employs to dispatch the
Virginia pacquets, may be in league with a certain Agent, who
is waiting at home to serve a party of men which I am contending with here etc. It is not very long ago that I have had
demonstration of their opening my letters: wherefore I wish
yt. you would for ye future commit, not only your own letters,
but even those from the Board, to the care of Mr. Robt. Cary,
of Virginia, Mercht. etc If the hint you give me of somewhat
to come, that will be to my satisfaction proves to be a dismission
of four or five of our turbulent Councellors (such as Blair,
Ludwell, Smith and Byrd) we may then expect to have peace
and quiet in this Colony, and Assemblys meet to make laws
for the publick weal etc. If not, their indulgence will entail
upon the Board perpetual complaints from this quarter; or
else ye Governor must fall entirely into these peoples schemes
of Government, and becoming a thorough Creolian, must never
dare to render to the Ministry at home so faithfull an account
of his administration as I have all along done etc. The complaints against him are merely the work of the eight subscribing
Councillors and Mr. Byrd, who is determined to turn him out.
The tottering Governor is the appellation given him in papers
dispersed through the Government. Repeats part of gist of Dec.
22, 1718. Concludes: I fear my adversarys have been long
before me with their representations, for they surprisingly
produced their Address just upon the sailing of the last ship
for that year, and since her departure I have not till now met
with an opportunity of sending a letter; and this offering by
a chance ship, I am too suddenly called upon, neither dare I
venture, but by some good ship and trusty master, my full
answer to their Articles etc. Signed, A. Spotswood. Endorsed,
Recd. 13th, Read 29th April, 1719. 2¾ pp. Enclosed, |
|
46. i. Some remarkable proceedings in the Assembly of
Virginia Anno 1718. Printed copy of Dec. 22. Nos. ii, iii, v.
4 pp. [C.O. 5, 1318. Nos. 62, 62 i.] |
Feb. 6.
St. James's |
47. Order of King in Council. Referring following to the
Council of Trade and Plantations for their report. See A.P.C.
II. No. 1309. Signed, Edward Southwell. Endorsed, Recd.
Read 12th Feb. 1718/19. 1 p. Enclosed, |
|
47. i. Petition of Francis Lord Guildford to the King.
Guardian to the Lord Baltimore, petitions for leave
of absence of Lt. Governor John Hart, of Maryland,
for the recovery of his health for 12 months. In his
absence, his place to be taken by the first member of
the Councill there etc. Copy. 1 p. [C.O. 5, 717.
Nos. 74, 74. i.] |
Feb. 6.
Whitehall. |
48. Council of Trade and Plantations to the Lords Commissioners of H.M. Treasury. Enclose extract of letter from
Mr. Bridger Oct. 24th, 1718, and recommend his application
for salary etc. Continue: As to the other part of his letter,
wherein he says, that the person now appointed to succeed
him intends to officiate by a Deputy; we hope he has been
misinformed, because we have reason to believe, that it will
be impracticable for a Deputy to act with any success in that
station, since Mr. Bridger who is allowed to have all the necessary
qualifications, and appears to have been very active and diligent
in the discharge of his duty, has not hitherto been able to hinder
the inhabitants in those parts from committing great waste
in the woods. [C.O. 5, 915. pp. 251, 252.] |
Feb. 6.
Whitehall. |
49. Mr. Popple to Mr. West. Encloses for his opinion
thereon Act of Pennsylvania for the advancement of Justice and
more certain administration thereof etc. [C.O. 5, 1293. p. 163.] |
| [Feb. 6.] |
50. Petition of Ambrose Philips, Agent for New York,
to the Council of Trade and Plantations. Prays for a favourable
report upon an Act of New York, passed in the late Queen's
reign, repealing an Act to oblige Robert Livingston to account etc.
Encloses printed copy etc. Endorsed, Recd. 6th, Read 10th
Feb., 1718/19. 1 p. [C.O. 5, 1051. No. 80; and 5, 1124. p. 62]. |
Feb. 6.
Speaker's Chambers, &c. |
51. Order of House of Commons. The Committee to whom
the petition of the sufferers of Nevis and St. Christophers is
referred, order a return of papers relating to the grant in aid
etc. Signed, Peter Godfrey. Endorsed, Recd. 7th, Read 10th
Feb., 1718/19. 1 p. [C.O. 152, 12. No. 127; and (duplicate)
127 i.] |
Feb. 6.
St. James's. |
52. Order of King in Council. Referring following to
the Council of Trade and Plantations for their opinion thereon.
Signed, Edward Southwell. Endorsed, Recd. 13th, Read
25th Feb., 1718/19. 1 p. Enclosed, |
|
52. i. Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty to the King
in Council. Admlty. Office. 3rd Jan. 1718. Propose
that the 54th Article of the Governor's Instructions,
directing them in the case of the captured pirates'
goods to secure the same till H.M. pleasure be known,
or, if perishable, to sell them publicly and secure the
proceeds etc, be annulled, several irregularityes
derogatory to the Admiralty jurisdiction having
happened by virtue of that clause, and the Governors
being sufficiently instructed by their Commissions as
Vice-Admirals etc. Signed, J. Jennings. Jo. Cockburne,
W. Chetwynd, Jno. Norris, Cha. Wager. |
|
52. ii. Same to Same. Mr. James Smith, Advocate for the
Court of Admiralty, in New England, having represented to us, that the provinciall Judges make frequent
and intollerable encroachmts not only on H.M.
authority, but on the jurisdiction of the Admiralty
in those parts, insomuch as to sett at liberty persons
imprisoned by decree of the Admiralty Court for debts
and penaltys due to H.M., and to sett aside by pretended prohibitions, all appeales to the High Court
of Admiralty, and to issue out writts, for large sums
of money against masters of ships and others who
sue in the Vice-Admiralty Courts, whereby the British
navigation is exceedingly discouraged; and that he
having applyed to the Govr. for redress hath found it
altogether in vain, for that the said Governor believes
by his Commission as Vice Admirall, he himself makes
up the whole Court, and upon this supposition directs
his warrant to the Marshall to seize ships and goods
and overturn the decrees of the Court etc., And wee
having received complaints of the like nature from
the Courts of Admlty. of other H.M. Plantations
insomuch that it appears there is little or no regard
had to the authority and jurisdiction of the Admiralty
abroad: Wee do therefore most humbly pray H.M.
will be pleased to command the severall Govrs. of his
foreign Colonys and Plantations that they do not
only forbear giving interruptions to the proceedings
of the Courts of Admlty. within their Governmt. and
restrain the provinciall judges from doing the same, but
that they give all possible countenance, and assistance
to ye judges and other officers of the said Courts, in
all cases that properly come under their cognizance
etc. Signed and dated as preceding. Copy. 2 pp. |
|
52. iii. James Smith to Governor Shute (v. preceding). John
Oulton and Cornelius Waldol, merchants, Sept. last,
pending an action between them and others in the
Court of Admiralty, did by publick placards and otherwise defy and insult the jurisdiction and authority
of the said Court, and endeavoured to excite others
to join in the like practices in open contempt of H.M.
Royal Commissions and Acts of Parliament, whereby
Courts of Admiralty are established here etc. They
owned the facts charged on them and were fined
£25 each by the Court. But upon application made
by them to the Superiour Court of judicature for this
Province then sitting at Bristol, a prohibition was
issued out for stopping execution of the sentence till
the proceedings in Admiralty should be heard by
them. And notwithstanding the Court of Admiralty
did comply with the said prohibition tho' contrary
to law, and H.M. Commission, which require, that
parties aggrieved by a sentence of Admiralty in these
parts, should appeal to the High Court of Admiralty
in England; nevertheless Oulton and Waldol have in
further contempt of H.M. Prerogative and Laws,
and likewise in disobedience to the order granted at
their request by the judges of the Superiour Court,
raised a prosecution against the Advocate [James
Smith] before the judges of the Inferiour Court, and
have caused him to be arrested by the Sherriff of this
County in the sum of £400 for executing his office
according to the tenour and express words of his
Commission, and the Judge of Admty's direction, etc.
Prays H.E. to interpose his authority for vindicating
the undoubted rights of the Crown, since such proceedings can be carried on with no other view, than
to suppress the exercise of any power immediately
derived from the Crown etc. Signed, James Smith.
Boston, Feb. 12, 1716 [sic]. Copy. 3¼ pp. |
|
52. iv. James Smith to Josiah Burchett. Boston in New
England, 18th Feb., 1718. Refers to Memorial of
Aug. last, laying before the Lords Commrs. of the
Admiralty the encroachments upon H.M. prerogative.
Continues: The Judges of the Provincial Courts have
at last assumed to themselves the power not only of
prohibiting all kinds of actions even for seamen's
wages in the Court of Admiralty, but likewise suffer
the actors or prosecutors, who sue in the said Court,
and the officers thereof to be tried before them, and
to be mulcted at the discretion of their juries. The
Marshal has been arrested several times, and forced
to follow their Courts from one county to another,
upon no other pretence, than that he executed the
decree of the Court, and last week I was arrested etc.
ut supra. Refers to the intollerable oppressions we
lie under occasioned by an utter aversion the great
part of the people in these parts entertain against all
powers not derived from themselves. And by their
example the neibouring Provinces, some of which
have no Charters but hold precariously of the Crown,
have thrown off their submission to Admiralty
jurisdiction, so that at present it is almost quite
suppressed. Signed, James Smith. Copy. 2¼ pp. |
|
52. v. Same to Same. Boston, Nov. 8, 1718. A French
vessel belonging to Cape Francois came directly from
thence last June unto this harbour. The Master
Détcheverry having waited on the Collector ashoar
was permitted to unload his cargoe, consisting chiefly
of molasses, into a warehouse, and then to sell it for
£900. Upon the loud complaints of the merchants
residing here, and their earnest applications for having
such an open breach of the Treaty of Neutrality for
America duly proceeded against. especially since the
letter of the Council of Trade 18th May, 1717, I did
in pursuance of my duty exhibit a libel against
the vessel and goods, and insisted on having both
confiscated; not that I believed the Judge of Vice
Admiralty, would in opposition to the Governour and
Collector proceed so far, but with intent to check in
some measure at least those pernicious practices by
exposing them to publick view. The Collector appearing in defence of the vessel gave into Court a paper
signed by himself and the Comptroller, upon which
the libel was dismissed, and soon after Detcheverry
purchases here a new sloop and cargoe under the
colour of some Frenchmen's names inhabitants of
this place, and sails directly to Cape Breton, and from
thence to H.M. harbours of Canso, whereby his sloop
was seized about 20th Sept. by Capt. Smart and brought
hither in order to be adjudged to H.M. By some of
Détcheverry's papers, which had fallen into Captain
Smart's hands, it evidently appear'd that the great
civilities which had been done him, flow'd from another
principle than that of humanity, as it was pretended,
for in one article, besides wine there is a present of
£20 to the Collector, and £15 10s. to his two waiters,
of whom Mr. Vincent Marshall of the Vice Admiralty
is one etc. In my humble opinion both offices cannot
be discharg'd by one person without great prejudice
to trade and the execution of justice. Capt. Smart
H.M.S. Squirrel, brought in last month from Canso
two French vessels which he found trading there
contrary to the Treaty of Neutrality etc. We proceeded to trial and the whole was confiscated and
delivered by the Marshall into Capt. Smart's possession,
in regard the vessels and the fish on board were not
only perishable but actually perishing, and no motion
had been made on the Governour's part to have them
put into the hands of any other person, he having
enacted himself to make good to H.M. the full value
according to appraisement. H.E. was very much
displeased with the decree, especially that part of it,
which empower'd Capt. Smith to dispose of the prizes,
and being made believe, that the cognizance of this
matter was not competent to the jurisdiction of
Admiralty, or if it was, that as Vice Admiral he might
by his own authority stop proceedings and supersede
all decrees of Court, he directed a warrant under his
hand and seal to the Marshal, requiring him to seize
the vessells and cargoes, and to carry with him a
sufficient force in case Capt. Smith inclin'd to make
any resistance. Tho' the warrant had not the effect
H.E. intended, yet the authority of the Court was
thereby render'd so precarious, and contemptible
that the Provincial Judges, having privately consulted
together, granted prohibitions not only in the cases
then depending but also those which had been decided.
Instances given. Copy. 6¾ pp. |
|
52. vi. John Menzeis, Judge of Admiralty in Massachusets
Bay, to the Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty.
The judges of the Court of Justice for this province
being either offended by memorialist's efforts to reform
abuses and regulate proceedings in maritime causes
by the laws and forms observed in the High Court of
Admiralty in England, or apprehending that the Court
of Admiralty might become of greater use, and more
considerable than they desired, have thought fit to
weaken and almost suppress its authority and jurisdiction by several illegal and unwarrantable acts.
Upon pretence that they have the same power
to issue out prohibitions as belongs to the Common
Law Courts in Westminster Hall, with respect to the
proceedings of the High Court of Admiralty in England,
they have caused serve prohibitions against the Judge
of Admiralty here, in two cases purely maritime etc.
Whereas it is presumed no such power is competent
to their Courts, the Statutes whereby Admiralty
Jurisdiction in England is limited having no relation
to the Plantations. Besides the writts of prohibition,
which they have issued out, are irregular both in
matter and form etc. Quote cases given in No. iv.
Further, the General Court of this Province in their
late Assembly, notwithstanding the clauses of reservation of the rights of Admiralty in their Charter, upon
the bare opinion of one chosen by them, to be their
Attorney General for this year, hath assumed the
power to pass an Act, which not only forbids under a
severe penalty, the Officers of the Court of Admiralty
to take or demand any fees, but such as they thought
fit to establish. and wherein are omitted, not only
more than the third part of the articles which occurr
in that Court, for which dues have ever been paid,
since the establishment thereof by the King in these
Provinces, but likewise differs from an Act of Parliament for the encouragement of trade to America. The
Judge and officers of the Court of Admiralty implore
their Lordships' protection, and that a stop may be
put to the violent proceedings against them etc.
Copy. 6½ pp. [C.O. 323, 7. Nos. 148, 148. i–vi;
and (without enclosures), 324, 10. pp. 234, 235.] |
| Feb. 9. |
53. Reservations of Naval Stores proposed to be made in
grants of lands in Nova Scotia, offered by the Naval Board
v. Feb. 5. Endorsed, Recd. Read 12th Feb., 1718/19. 2¼ pp.
[C.O. 217, 2. Nos. 56; and (duplicate), 57.] |
Feb. 10.
Office of Ordnance. |
54. Board of Ordnance to the Council of Trade and Plantations. Your Lordships are sensible with what difficulties we
have gott, from Parliament, £2500 for securing the harbour
of Placentia, by building of a stone redoubt at the entrance of
it; And as this cannot be done without the assistance of the
trading ships by carrying at easie freight several materials which
that place do's not afford, as limestone, culm, freestone etc.
we were in hopes they would have readily come into the same,
since it might have been a means to induce the Government to
do the like for other harbours, but to our great disappointment they demand 20s. a tunn, half of which we are willing to
give provided they will carry it to Placentia, altho we were
allowed but at the rate of 3s., it being proposed to be carried as
ballast to the several ports they fish att. Request them to write
to the Chamber of Exeter etc. to exert their endevors therein etc.
Signed, T. White, M. Richards, T. Wheate, John Armstrong,
T. Frankland. Endorsed, Recd. 10th., Read 12th Feb., 1718/19.
1 p. [C.O. 194, 6. No. 53; and 195, 6. pp. 485, 486.] |
Feb. 11.
Whitehall. |
55. Mr. Secretary Craggs to the Governor of Barbados.
You are to give all reasonable countenance and assistance to
Mr. Hales and Mr. Hodges as desired in following. Signed,
J. Craggs. Annexed, |
|
55. i. Petition of Robert Hales, one of the Clerks of H.M.
Privy Council, and Thomas Hodges to the King.
Robert Hales being married to the widow of the late
Coll. Hallet of Barbados, and Thomas Hodges to
Col. Hallet's heiress are engaged in a suit of Chancery,
in defence of the respective rights of their wives,
against William Cogan, one of the executors, who
lays claim to one half of Col. Hallet's personal estate
(£20,000). Pray that the Governor be directed to give
his favour and assistance to hasten the ending of a
vexatious suit, etc. Mr. Cogan by his artful ways
and dilatory proceedings having already caused the
suit to depend for 1½ years etc. [C.O. 324, 33. pp.
213, 214.] |
Feb. 12.
Whitehall. |
56. Mr. Secretary Craggs to the Governor of Barbados.
Upon the complaint of Abel Alleyn etc (v. 17th Nov. 1718),
you are to send a letter in the most pressing terms to the
Governor of Martinico, to demand their [Runaway] negroes
which letter you are to send by a Messenger of your own, and
take particular care, that no illegal trade be carried on with the
French Settlements under this pretence. Signed, J. Craggs.
[C.O. 324, 33. p. 215.] |
Feb. 12.
Whitehall. |
57. Mr. Popple to Mr. Burchett. Encloses extract of letter
from Nath. Shannon (v. Dec. 9, 1718), and enquires if there be
any further accounts at the Admiralty, etc. [C.O. 5, 915. p.
254.] |
Feb. 13.
Admiralty Office. |
58. Mr. Burchett to Mr. Popple. In reply to preceding,
encloses following "The same is all the accounts their Lordships
have received" etc. Signed, J. Burchett. Endorsed, Recd.
14th Feb., Read 4th March, 1718/19. Addressed. 1 p. Enclosed, |
|
58. i. Extract of letter from Capt. Smart, H.M.S. Squirrel, to
Mr. Burchett, 22nd Oct. 1718. I carried here from
Canso on 5th Oct. and brought with me two French
vessels which I seized at that place for fishing and
trading there contrary to the 5th and 6th Articles
of the Treaty of Peace and Neutrality in America etc.
Both have been condemned in the Court of Admiralty
and confiscated with their lading to H.M. and I, as
captor, being allowed to dispose thereof after apprizement, etc. have taken possession of them, notwithstanding which H.E. Governor Shute hath arbitrarily
endeavored to take them from me, having after the
judges decree sent the Marshall of the Vice Admiralty
on board by virtue of a warrant under his own hand
and seal, which I repeal'd to take them out of my
possession under pretence my security is not sufficient
and that the country must be answerable and
by that means to get a grant of it from H.M. under
pretexte that what service I have done has been by
his and the Counsell's orders. 1¼ pp. [C.O. 5, 867.
Nos. 33, 33.i.; and (without enclosure) 5, 915. pp.
259, 260.] |
Feb. 14.
Whitehall. |
59. Mr. Popple to the Mayors of Exeter, Poole, Bideford,
Barnstable and Dartmouth. Urges acceptance of
proposal by the Board of Ordnance v. Feb. 10th.
[C.O. 195, 6. pp. 487, 488.] |
Feb. 16.
Poole. |
60. Mayor of Poole to Mr. Popple. Reply to 14th Feb.
The master of the only ship bound to Placentia will carry 60
tons at 20s. pr. ton and not under. No other master will contract
at any rate, being bound to distant harbours etc. Signed,
Ben Skutt. Endorsed, Recd. 18th., Read 19th Feb., 1718/19.
Addressed. Postmark. 1 p. [C.O. 194, 6. No. 54.] |
Feb. 16.
Philadelphia. |
61. Deputy-Governor Keith to Mr. Popple. When the
inclosed report comes to be laid before the Board, I conceive
it will be proper to make some enquiry (i.) Whether the Crown
of England has not always claim'd a right to the Lakes westward
of these Colonies, etc. (ii.) If Hudson's Bay, as I conceive it is,
be unquestionably ours, whether we must not also have as
good a right to the great Lake or Lac Superieur with which that
Bay has a communication by water. (iii.) Whether Dr. Cox
had not some grant of the River Mechasippi before it was
discovered by the French, and what sort of a grant it was.
Also that you will please to inform their Lordships that a gentleman of worth and credit here assures me that he has seen a
French commission from the Governor of Canada dated about
3 years ago, wherein the person to whom it was granted is
particularly required to obstruct the English settlements.
Signed, W. Keith. Endorsed, Recd. 1st., Read 2nd July,
1719. Addressed. 1½ pp. Enclosed, |
|
61. i. Same to the Council of Trade and Plantations. Report,
in reply to 19th March, 1718, upon the progress of the
French in finding out and securing a passage from
their settlements on St. Lawrence River to that on
Mechasippi. I have my information chiefly from the
Indian traders and shall not pretend to vouch anything
from my own knowledge etc. Yet first I would intreat
your Lordships to observe, that from an article in
the Treaty of Reswick, by which all lands on any
rivers in America, the mouths whereof were then in
the possession of either Nation, are conceded to that
Nation as high as the first sources of those Rivers,
the French by virtue of the Sieur de la Salle's expeditions and discoveries do now claim all the lands
to the northward and westward of the British Colonies
from Canada along the Lakes unto the mouth of the
River Mechasippi; But as it is hard to imagine that
such a concession was ever intended by the foresaid
article, because it is not only inconsistent with the
ancient grant from the Crown to the Proprietors of
Carolina, but also with the security of all H.M. Colonies
on this Continent of America, I only submit it to your
Lordships view etc. From the time that the French
first discovered the River Mechasippi they have with
great care endeavoured and at length have actually
settled a communication between Canada and the
Southern countries on the said river. First they sail
in cannoes from Mount Real about three leagues to
the fall of St. Lewis, where they have a portage or
carrying place by land about half a league; then
they reimbark and row up the stream about sixty
leagues to Fort Frontenac on the North side and at
the beginning of Lake Ontario. In this fort is a small
garrison, consisting of one or two companies in the
King's pay. From thence they proceed on the Lake
Ontario, generally reputed to be about eighty leagues
in length, to those dreadful Falls of Niagara, which
oblige them to land; the portage is about three
leagues, after which they reimbark and go up the
Strait about six leagues into the Lake Erie, reputed
to be 130 leagues in length. And from this Lake they
have three different routs to the River Mechasippi.
The first and shortest passage by water is to go up
the River Miamis or Ouamis that enters Lake Erie on
the South West, about 150 leagues, then they come
to a carrying place of about three leagues, where is
the highest land, and from hence the waters divide
their descent between Mechasippi and that Lake;
Here they embark on a small shallow river called la
Riviere de Portage, down which they row forty leagues
to the River Wabash or Ouabache, and on that river,
as the traders reckon, 120 leagues to the River Ohio,
into which the other falls, then 80 leagues down Ohio
to Mechasippi, and thence 350 leagues to the Bay
of Mexico. Some call both these rivers by the same
name, and generally Wabash, but they ought to be
distinguished, because the head of Ohio comes more
easterly towards Virginia or Carolina, and among
divers other large streams it receives the River Peresipi
on the South side not far from the mouth of Wabash,
which river, Peresipi, is said to rise from the mountains of Virginia or Carolina. The other two passages
are both prick'd down in Hennepin's Map, and according
to the accounts given are thus, From the North East
of Lake Erie they sail eight leagues to a fort on the
Lake St. Claire, called Pont Chartrain, where there is
a settlement of the French, and often 400 traders
meet here; then along the Lake seven leagues, thence
to the great Lake Huron about ten leagues; On this
Lake they proceed to the Straits Missilimakina 120
leagues. Here is a garrison of about 30 French, and
a vast concourse of traders, sometimes not less than
a thousand, besides Indians, being a common place
of rendezvous. At and near this place are the
Outawas settled. From the Lake Huron they pass
by the Strait Missilimakina four leagues, being two
in breadth and of a great depth, to the Lake Illinois,
thence 150 leagues on the Lake to Fort Miami situate
on the mouth of the River Chigagou; This Fort is
not regularly garrisoned. From hence came those
Indians of the same name viz Miamis, who are
settled on the forementioned River that runs into Erie.
Up the River Chigagou they sail but three leagues
to a portage of a quarter of a league, then they enter
a small lake of about a mile, and have another very
small portage, and again another of two miles to the
River Illinois, thence down the same 130 leagues
to Mechasippi. The third is from Missilimakina
on the Lake Illinois to the Lake des Puans ninety
leagues, thence to the River Puans eighty leagues,
thence up the same to a portage about four miles over
to the River Ouisconsing, thence forty leagues to the
Mechasippi. From the mouth of Ouisconsing to the
mouth of the River Illinois is reputed 150 leagues on
Mechasippi, and from thence to the mouth of this
seventy leagues: so that from the mouth of Ouisconsing
to the Bay is about 500 leagues. These distances are
as the traders reckon them, but they appear generally
to be much overdone, which may be owing to those
people's coasting along the shoars of the Lakes and
taking in all the windings of the Rivers. They have
another much shorter passage from Mount Real to Lake
Huron by the French River on the North of St.
Lawrence, which answers the two latter routs, but it
abounds with falls, and not answering trade so well
is not so much used. They have also by this river
a much shorter passage to the upper Lake or Lac
Superieur. But of all the passages, that by Ouabache
is the shortest and easiest etc. |
|
A State of the Indian Nations: It has ever been
the policy of the French, in time of war as well as
peace, to use their utmost endeavours by all manner
of means to bring over any sort or all kinds of Indians
into their interest; But as it is in vain to perswade
an Indian to think otherwayes than that those are
his best friends who can help him to the best bargain,
the Iroquese or five Nations have hitherto been
preserved by the Dutch and English at New York,
chiefly on account of finding better markets there
than with the French. Nevertheless by the artifices
of their Jesuit Missionaries they daily continue to
debauch them from the English interest in so much
that of the whole number of Iroquese now remaining,
which does not exceed 2000 fighting men, the French
have drawn over 700 to inhabit amongst them, viz. 400
seated at the Fall of St. Lewis on the South side of St.
Lawrence, and 300 on the North side. The rest of them
are planted chiefly along the Lake Ontario, at some
distance from it. I am told there are no Indians
in the French interest on this side of St. Lawrence
nearer than the Miamis or Twoittois, as the Iroquese
call them. They are in numbers about 2000, seated
chiefly on the forementioned River Miamis flowing
into Lake Erie, and on or near the branches of the
River Ouabache. The gaining of this one Nation
would be of great importance to the English interest,
and might be easily done at this time, if any offer was
made of trading with them, and of building a Fort
upon Lake Erie, where the French as yet have no
settlement, tho' probably they will soon go about
to have one, upon the account of these people, as well
as to render their passage through that Lake more
easie and safe. The Illinois are about 3000 men,
on or near the River of that name. The Missilimakinaes
or Outtawas were formerly 3000, but now are scarce
500. The Nokes 100. The Fellesavoins 200. The
Sakes 200. The Puans 600. All these joined the
French against the Iroquese in the last war, and all
of them, except the Miamis, are seated about or near
to the Lake Illinois, which is now commonly call'd
by them Mechegan, and on the rivers that run into
it, and on the Lake Puans and the River Illinois.
There are also divers other Nations between Mechegan
and Mechasippi, as the Renards or Foxes, Massekotins,
Kikapous; But these being farther off did not join
the French against the Iroquese. On Mechasippi
and the branches of it there are many great Nations,
especially to the West, as the Missouris, Ozages,
Acansias, who are different from those of Acansa
on the East, with many more, not less, as is affirmed,
than 60,000 men: with all whom it is said, the French
have peace or some small alliance. On the other hand,
all the English to the northward of Carolina have
not 1500 men in their interest, except the Iroquese.
In New England and Connecticut they have very few:
In New York only the River Indians besides the
Iroquese: In Jersey or Pensilvania their own or
home Indians, call'd Delawares are exceedingly
decreased, and being in subjection to the Iroquese
take their rules from them: In Maryland and Virginia
there are very few, excepting those towards the South
West whom Collo. Spotswood with great industry
has lately gain'd by treaties and hostages. Those of
Carolina and the Nations lately in friendship with
them have been very numerous; but the Iroquese,
whether prompted by the French or by what other
motive is not known, have of late years made great
inroads upon them, and cannot as yet by any endeavours of the English, be diverted from it etc. |
|
Methods to prevent the inconveniences of ye French
settlements. Tho' it may be justly said that we exceed
the French in the improved value of our settlements
upon this Continent, yet from the above account it
is plain, that we come far short of the industry which
they use in cultivating a necessary correspondence
and friendship with the natives, without which our
further progress to the westward will soon be circumscribed, and we shall likewayes be under daily
apprehensions of loseing what we already possess. But
since this friendship and correspondence is by experience no otherwayes to be acquired than by trade, it
will necessarily follow, that this trade ought by all
means to be encouraged and extended with our
utmost care and diligence; And that this may be
done to the publick advantage as well as to that of
particulars, it will be proper to consider the nature
of this trade, with respect to Great Britain: to the
Colonies where it must be carried on: and to the
French who are our rivals in it. The trade itself
consists in the exchange of a very few simple commodities, viz., They take from us the woollen manufacture of Britain, gunpowder, shot, fire-arms and trinkets,
for which we receive in barter furs and skins; And
this being almost a total exchange of British produce
or manufacture, through the hands and by the
navigation and labour of British subjects in these
Colonies, suppose it only for an equal quantity in
value of goods which are either wanted at home, or
may be justly placed to Great Britain's credit upon
the ballance of trade in the forreign countries, it will
inavoidably follow that Britain must gain in proportion to the magnitude or extent of the trade in general,
and therefore we may conclude that it ought not only
to be encouraged, but established upon an equal
foot throughout all these Colonies, as they are
inhabited by British subjects carrying on one British
interest without any distinction made or regard had
to their particular settlements or Societys as separate
Governments. With respect to the Colonies: This
Trade will enrich particulars in proportion to the
quantity they deal in and the profit it brings, which of
late years has been so considerable that it has tempted
the trading interest of some Colonies to pursue that
gain with an unreasonable desire of crushing their
neighbours; But this practice is by all means to be
discouraged from Great Britain as highly destructive
of the publick interest, both with respect to trade and
the advancement as well as security of the British
Dominion on this Continent. Lastly, if this trade
could be carried on with such a publick spirit and just
regard to a national interest as appears to be
absolutely necessary for maintaining what we have
already got, the French, who cannot furnish those
commodities compared with us either in quantity
or value, could have no more hopes of diverting the
Indians from trading with us, and consequently
depending firmly upon us; We should not then have
the traders of New York jealous of and uneasie at the
proffits gained by the traders of Virginia, nor those
again of the improvements which may possibly be
made in Carolina: but every Colony would find a
solid and certain advantage by an Union amongst
them, according to their situation, power and ability
to advance their trading settlements westward upon
the Lakes and adjacent rivers, where these vast
Nations of Indians would soon perceive by our united
interest, power and traffick, that we were far preferable
to our rivals the French, and every way much fitter
to be chosen for their friends and allies. And in order
to carry on this great design I humbly conceive it
will be proper that a compleat body of Instructions
be carefully composed to be sent to all the Governours
on this Continent, where amongst other things it may
be directed, vizt. (i) That in order to prevent the
Indians being imposed upon and abused by loose
and over-covetous persons trading promiscuously
amongst them, which was the chief unhappy cause of
the late destructive war in South Carolina, the
Governour shall use his utmost endeavour, with the
advice of the Council and Assembly, to put the Indian
trade carried on by the inhabitants under such wholesome and just regulations as that the traders may not
have it in their power to cheat or impose upon the
Indians in any sort, without being made accountable
for it under high penalties; Provided alwayes that
no restriction shall be made to prohibit or interrupt
any of H.M. subjects in other of his Colonies from trading as freely with any forreign Indians as the inhabitants
of that Colony can or may do themselves, and in case
they shall discover any abuses to have been committed upon any Indians whatsoever by any person or
persons inhabitants in or belonging unto any other of
H.M. Colonies, complaint shall forthwith be made to
the Governour of that Colony whereunto the offender
belongs, and he shall cause restitution to be made
and justice to be done according to the nature of the
offence. (ii) That all possible encouragement be
given towards carrying on a fair trade with the Indian
Nations, so that it may be extended as far westward
upon the Lakes and Rivers behind the great Mountains
as the situation and ability of the Colony will permit;
And when any proper place shall be discovered for
the building of a Fort and settling a Garrison in order
to protect the trade, a report thereof shall be made
to your Lordships, with the circumstances and reasons
that can be given for so doing. (iii) That the
Governour shall with all his industry and might
endeavour to make treaties and alliances of strict
friendship with as many Indian Nations as possibly he
can: always taking special care to stipulate and secure
Peace not only between them and the Colonies under
his direction, but also between them and all the English
Colonies, and likewayes with all the Indians under
any league of friendship with any of the said Colonies.
And that this may be the more effectually done H.M.
may be pleased to direct and order in a more especial
manner, by a publick Proclamation or otherwayes
as shall seem meet, that all persons whatsoever
travelling from the settlements of any of H.M. Colonies
into the woods, in order to discover and trade with
any Indian Nation or Nations whatsoever, if such
persons shall happen accidentally to meet or encounter
with any others H.M. subjects travelling from any
other of his Colonies or settlements upon the same
design of trade or discovery, then and in that case,
such persons shall be obliged and are strictly commanded, under the highest pain of his Royal displeasure, to entreat one another with civil humanity
and kindly assistance, without giving the one the
other upon either part the least interruption or
hindrance in their said respective designs of friendly
intercourse and traffick with the Indians, but on the
contrary, by their open and free behaviour as well
as discourse, to convince the Indians as much as in
them lies, that all the Indian subjects upon this
Continent howsoever distinguished into Governments,
yet are but one people under one great King, who has
commanded them his subjects to take all opportunitys of shewing his love and affection to all the
Indian Nations, and that whichsoever of them will
make any League of Friendship with any one of his
Governments in these parts, are thereby entitled to
H.M. protection. and the friendship as well as assistance of all the other Governments and the Indian
Nations in alliance with any of them. (iv) That if
any Indian Nation in League of Friendship with any
of H.M. Colonies shall in breach thereof presume to
make war upon, plunder, or in any sort molest any
other Indian Nation who at the time shall be in friendship with, and under the protection of any other of
H.M. Colonies: Then that Colony unto which such
offensive Indians are bound by treaty shall use their
utmost endeavours, by threatnings as well as promises,
to oblige the said Indians to make reasonable satisfaction for their breach of faith, to the contentment
of the party aggrieved; And in case of meeting with
any difficulty in bringing such Indians to reason, the
Governour shall represent the same unto H.M. forthwith, in order to receive further direction therein.
(v) To the end that all the Governours of H.M.
Plantations on the Continent be each of them for
their better direction particularly acquainted with
the State of every other Government relating to the
Indians, let every Governour be ordered, upon his
making any alliance or treaty with any Indian Nation
whatsoever, immediately to communicate the nature,
import and date of such a treaty unto all his fellow
Governours upon the Continent. |
|
And such a correspondence and harmony being
once established, the Trade might be easily secured
and protected by erecting four small forts, viz.
the first upon Lake Erie, near to the abovenamed Indians the Miamis. The second on Lake
Ontario, near to the Iroquese. The third on the
head or highest fountain of Potowmack River, which
divides the Colonies of Virginia and Maryland. And the
fourth towards the head of Susquehannah River which
runs through Pensilvania unto the Bay of Cheaseapeak. The two first of these forts would not only
secure all the Indians on this side Carolina to Cannada,
which are settled to the eastward of the Lakes, but
also open a trade with the above-mentioned great
and numerous Nations to the westward, whose communication by water would render the traffick easie.
And because the distance between the English settlements in these Colonies and the Lakes is too great,
without the refreshment as well as security of a middle
stage or resting place, the other two forts would
effectually answer that end unto all the traders
belonging to any of the Colonies northward of Carolina.
I humbly conceive that each fort will require a company or garrison of fifty men in the King's pay, to
be under the direction and command of the Governours
H.M. Commanders in Chief in the respective Colonies,
viz. that upon Lake Erie to be under Virginia. That
upon Lake Ontario under New York. That upon
Potowmack under Maryland, and that upon Susquehannah under Pensilvania. To conclude, I cannot
foresee anything which would interrupt the execution
of this scheme, but the emulation in trade that is
kept up amongst the English Colonies; for which
reason it seems necessary that some method be
projected whereby each Colony will be obliged to
bear it's proportionable share of the expense which
the Crown of Great Britain will be at in building forts
westward amongst the Indians, and subsisting
garrisons: for if this was done at the publick charge,
equally for the protection of all, none would have
any pretence to be particularly distinguished in
their claim to this trade; and if Great Britain do not
imitate the French in making their correspondence
with the Indians a national concern, whereby the
Government and maintenance of all forts and garrisons
shall remain in the hands of the Crown, the success
is very much to be doubted, from the variety of
interruptions which we may continually expect to
meet with amongst ourselves as well as from the
French, who have but one interest principally in view,
and steadily pursue it with great application. But
from the little knowledge and experience which I
have of the English American Colonies, I do not expect
that this project, howsoever just in itself, will generally
please, etc. Pensylvania, 16th Feb.. 1718/19. |
|
P.S.—Lest it should at any time be represented
to your Lordships, that in imitation of the French a
Society may be incorporated, and a Company erected
for carrying on the trade upon this Continent wt.
the Indians, I must beg leave to observe that such a
privilege or immunity would certainly become a
very heavy burthen upon, and a great discouragement unto the planting as well as trading interest of
every one and all of these Colonies, who from the
taste they have of English liberty, are naturally
averse to all monopolies, and ever will hardly be
restrained by the maxims or example of a French
Government. Besides, any such restriction upon
the inhabitants of these Colonies, would altogether
destroy the intent and design of the above scheme,
which is founded upon reasoning after this manner,
vizt., That under a good regulation of government,
the relative advantages which subsist between any
State and its Colonies abroad are reciprocal. For
as the State has unquestionably a right, and most
certainly ought to regulate the trade of its Colonies
for publick advantage: so the Colonies have at least an
equal if not preferable claim to the subsistence and
smaller profits which arise from that trade, unto those
who must be employed in carrying it on. That where
any publick interest will be most effectually carried on
by the united strength of many adjacent Colonies,
such an Union ought carefully to be established with
equality amongst them, and every thing tending to
weaken or obstruct this Union is to be considered as
prejudicial to the publick. That the Indian Nations
upon this Continent are not to be gained otherways
than by trade, and this trade cannot be managed
to any purpose without the mutual assistance and
concurrence of all the English Colonies: But from
the different constitutions and particular interests
of these Colonies such a regulation is not to be obtained
without the authority of Great Britain etc. Signed,
W. Keith. 28 pp. [C.O. 5, 1265. Nos. 124, 124 i.;
and 5, 1293. pp. 181–203.] |
Feb. 18.
Whitehall. |
62. Council of Trade and Plantations to Lord Guilford.
In pursuance of Feb. 6th, desire to know whether the Government of Maryland upon Mr. Hart's absence will not devolve
upon the President of the Council there as is usual in all other
Plantations, "in which case before we can advise H.M. to grant
Mr. Hart a licence of absence it will be necessary that a security
should be given here in behalf of the Presidt. for his observing
and causing the several Acts of Trade and Navigation to be
duly put in execution in Maryland" etc. [C.O. 5, 727. p. 488.] |
| Feb. 18. |
63. Col. Codrington to the Council of Trade and Plantations.
Returns thanks for deferring the hearing of his petition (29th
Aug., 1717.) Concludes:—Considering that in strictness of
law I may not appear to have so good a title to the said lands
[in St. Christophers] as I may presume to have from H.M.
equitable and favourable consideration of the services and
sufferings of those under whom I claime, and the irregularity
of the proceedings in dispossessing the late Collo. Codrington
of those lands; I shall not give your Lordships any further
trouble herein, but pray you will please to represent the conduct
and merrit of the late Collo. Codrington's the father and son and
recommend me to H.M. favour in the purchase of the lands
abovementioned in case H.M. shall not think fit to confirm the
former grant. Signed, W. Codrington. Endorsed, Recd.
18th., Read 20th Feb., 1718/19. 1 p. [C.O. 152, 12. No. 128]. |
Feb. 19.
Whitehall. |
64. Mr. Popple to the Secretary of the Board of Ordnance.
Encloses copy of only answer (Feb. 16) yet received to No. 59.
"The Council of Trade and Plantations are apprehensive that
freight will hardly be got cheaper" etc. [C.O. 195, 6. p. 489.] |
| [Feb. 19.] |
65. Dr. Wickham to the Council of Trade and Plantations.
Prays that a day may be appointed for hearing the case of Col.
Thomas Morris, the original papers of the proceedings against
him in Antigua having now been laid before the Board, and Col.
Codrington, who is "capable to acquaint the Board of his
carecter" being now come to town. Endorsed, Recd. 19th.,
Read 20th Feb., 1718/19. ¾ p. [C.O. 152, 12. No. 129.] |
Feb. 20.
Whitehall. |
66. Mr. Popple to Mr. Bridger. Acknowledges letters and
refers to Representation of 6th Feb. Continues: The Board
desire you will continue to give them the best informations
you can, particularly with regard to H.M. woods, etc., and
concerning any essays that may be made for raising hemp,
making bar and rough iron or producing potashes; Their
Lordships desire further that you will send them as soon as
possible some account concerning the lands of Nova Scotia,
whether there are any such as you may judge proper to be let
apart for the service of the Crown, to supply the Navy with
masts, whether that country is capable of producing any sort
of Naval Stores, and that you will give your opinion upon the
whole in what manner the country may be best laid out for the
advantage of this Kingdom. [C.O. 5, 915. pp. 254, 255.] |
Feb. 20.
Whitehall. |
67. Same to Mr. Armstrong. Acknowledges letters etc.
of 27th Dec. The Board thank you for the same, and desire
you will continue to give them the best informations you can
from time to time of what may occur to you, relating to the
production of Naval Stores in America, or any other matter
that may tend to the interest and advantage of this Kingdom.
[C.O. 5, 915. p. 256.] |
Feb. 20.
Bideford. |
68. Mayor of Bideford to Mr. Popple. Reply to Feb. 14th.
These difficult times, it was late before the merchants concluded
to send any ships to Newfoundland etc. They offer to carry
limestone at 10s. and culme at 20s. pr. tunn to Trapassey and
St. Marys etc. The last years misfortunes of our ships in
Spaine will lessen our outsetts on ye fishery this spring soe that
wee shall not have halfe ye number of ships to the land this
year etc. Signed, John Buck. Endorsed, Recd. 23rd., Read
24th Feb., 1718/19. Addressed. Postmark. 1 p. [C.O. 194, 6.
No. 55.] |
Feb. 20.
Whitehall. |
69. Council of Trade and Plantations to the Lords Commissioners of the Treasury. Enclose Office accounts from Lady
day to Christmas. There was then a quarter's salary due to our
Secretary and other officers etc. Accounts annexed. [C.O.
389, 37. pp. 157–160.] |
Feb. 20.
Whitehall. |
70. Mr. Popple to Richard West. Encloses for his opinion
thereon the Act of New York to repeal an Act to oblige Robt.
Livingston to account etc. [C.O. 5, 1124. p. 63.] |
Feb. 21.
Exon. |
71. Mayor of Exeter to Mr. Popple. Reply to 14th Feb.
The merchants and masters think those materials may be cheapest
carried from Poole and Bithyford, etc. There are about 12
sayle bound for fishing voyages on ye bankes and mayne out
of this river and Tingmouth but not one of them above 120 tons
and every of them either sayles for France for salt or Ireland
for provisions, or to fish on ye banks, or carry passingers and
provisions etc. for them wch. fully loads the shipps etc. Signed,
John Burell, Mayor. Endorsed, Recd. 23rd., Read 24th Feb.,
1718/19. Addressed. Postmark. ¾ p. [C.O. 194, 6. No. 56.] |
Feb. 24.
Admiralty Office. |
72. Mr. Burchett to Mr. Popple. The Lords Commrs.
of the Admiralty desire the Attorney General of Jamaica to be
instructed to sue the executors of Silvester Stukeley, late Agent
for the Victualling Office, for monies due to them etc. Signed,
J. Burchett. Endorsed, Recd. 24th., Read 25th Feb., 1718/19.
Addressed. 1 p. [C.O. 137, 13. No. 23; and 138, 16. pp.
159, 160.] |
Feb. 25.
Whitehall. |
73. Mr. Popple to the Secretary of the Board of Ordnance.
Encloses copies of letters from Mayors of Biddeford and Exeter,
20th and 21st Feb. [C.O. 195, 6. p. 490.] |
Feb. 25.
St. James's. |
74. H.M. warrant appointing Francis Whitworth to
the office of Secretary of Barbados, surrendered by Joseph
Micklethwaite. Countersigned, J. Craggs. Copy. [C.O. 324, 33.
pp. 217–219.] |
| Feb. 25. |
75. W. Nivine to Mr. Popple. Desires that Col. John Frye
and William Parrot may attend the Board on Friday etc.
Signed, Will. Nivine. Endorsed, Recd. Read 25th Feb. 1718/19.
¾ p. [C.O. 152, 12. No. 130.] |
| Feb. 26. |
76. Lord Guilford to the Council of Trade and Plantations.
Reply to No. 62. It not being certain which of the members may
be living at the time of Mr. Hart's departure, Proposes that the
first member of the Council of Maryland for the time being
upon entering into the administration of the Government, give
security there to observe the Acts of Trade and Navigation,
to be transmitted here, in order for a new security to be entered
into here on his behalf, if that given in Maryland shall not be
thought to answer the end. Signed, Guilford. Endorsed,
Recd. 26th Feb., Read 4th March, 1718/19. 1 p. [C.O. 5,
717. No. 75.] |
| Feb. 27. |
77. Mr. West to the Council of Trade and Plantations.
Reply to 6th Feb. I am of opinion the Act is very proper to
be passed into a law etc. Signed, Richd. West. Endorsed,
Recd. 26th Feb., Read 6th March, 1718/19. ¾ p. [C.O. 5,
1265. No. 116; and 5, 1293. p. 163.] |
Feb. 27.
Barnestaple. |
78. Mayor of Barnstaple to the Council of Trade and
Plantations. Reply to 14th Feb. None of this port are bound
to Placentia etc. Signed, Edward Fairchild. Endorsed, Recd.
2nd., Read 4th March, 1718/19. Addressed. Postmark. ½ p.
[C.O. 194, 6. No. 57.] |
| Feb. 27. |
79. Lords Proprietors of Carolina to the Governor, Council
and Assembly of South Carolina. We having receiv'd this
day at our Board two several Addresses from the London
merchants, relating to two Acts of Assembly that have been
twelve months since pass'd in your Province of South Carolina
(of which to our great surprize we have as yet receiv'd no account
from you) and after we had heard the merchts. on both sides,
we came to these resolutions vizt., That as H.M. has been pleas'd
to issue out his orders to all his Governors in America not to
pass any Act of Assembly concerning the trade or shipping of
this Kingdom till his royal pleasure on that account be first
known; so we think it proper and we do hereby strictly command and require you our Governor and Council of South
Carolina, for the future not to pass any Act of Assembly which
may any ways affect the trade or shipping of this Kingdom,
without a clause declaring the sd. Acts shall not be in force until
they shall be first approved and confirm'd by us the Lords Proprietors. We think it highly unreasonable and unjust that in
matters relating to trade, any difference or distinction shou'd
be made between H.M. subjects residing in Great Britain and
those that live in our Province of South Carolina, or that any
greater duties should be impos'd on ships built in Great Britain
than on ships built in Carolina; Wherefore we the Lord Palatin
and the rest of the Lords Proprs. do think it proper to repeal
and make void, an Act of Assembly, entituled, An additional Act
to an Act, entituled an Act for laying an imposition on liquors
goods and merchandizes etc. We have receiv'd very grievous
complaints from the merchts. against an Act entituled, a further
additional Act, to an Act entituled an Act for the better ordering
and governing of negroes and all other slaves etc., and very great
and pressing instances have been made to us to repeal that Act;
But upon the report of the danger the country might be in from
the too great number of negro slaves; we were unwilling to
repeal the same; but we do advise you our Govr. Council and
Assembly, that if the country at present be in no real danger
from the great number of negroes, that you wou'd repeal the
said Act, and in lieu thereof you wou'd procure that an Act
may be pass'd to oblige every planter etc. to have one white
man for every ten negroes. Signed, Carteret, Palatin; Maurice
Ashley, J. Colleton, J. Danson. [C.O. 5, 290. pp. 132–135.] |
| Feb. 27. |
80. Petition of William Gordon, of Barbados, Clerk, to
the Council of Trade and Plantations. The Committee for
hearing appeals, complaints etc. from the Plantations have
appointed the 6th March for determining a complaint of the
Agents of Barbadoes touching the Bp. of London's Ecclesiastical jurisdiction and petitioner's character conduct and
principles. Desires copies of some Minutes of Council and
Assembly and other papers relating thereto. Signed, W. Gordon.
Endorsed, Recd. Read 27th Feb., 1718/19. 1 p. [C.O. 28,
15. No. 44.] |
Feb. 28.
St. James's. |
81. H.M. licence of leave for a further 12 months to Thomas
Talmach, Lt. Govr. of Montserrat, etc. Countersigned, J.
Craggs. Copy. [C.O. 324, 33. p. 216.] |
