Volume 46: June 1-July 31, 1697 | British History Online

Calendar of Treasury Papers, Volume 2, 1697-1702. Originally published by Her Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1871.

This free content was digitised by double rekeying. Public Domain.

Citation:

'Volume 46: June 1-July 31, 1697', in Calendar of Treasury Papers, Volume 2, 1697-1702, ed. Joseph Redington( London, 1871), British History Online https://prod.british-history.ac.uk/cal-treasury-papers/vol2/pp58-78 [accessed 24 November 2024].

June 1–July 31, 1697



1697. [? About June 16.]	1. Proposal of William Hunt, Esq., to the Lords of the Treasury, to discover lands of the delinquents to the value of 300l. or 400l. per ann., and a personal estate of very considerable value, upon the usual recompense of one-third for the discovery. Minuted:—“16 June '97. Agreed soe as it be a reall discovery.” ½ page.
[? About June 16.]	2. Petition of Knightly Chettwood, Archdeacon of York, to the Lords of the Treasury, praying the grant of a concealed rent of 300l. of lands of Lord Preston, to whom the petitioner had lent 1,000l. before his attainder. Minuted:—“Read 16 Jun. '97. See minute in ye Book.” The minute referred to is:—“Do^r Chetwood being a creditor to the late Lord Preston, offers to discover arrears of rent owing to the K. out of the said Lord's estate, not comprehended in the auditor's account, if he may have them for his owne satisfaction. My Lords think this reasonable, and do consent thereunto, so as y^e grant may not exceed his debt.” See Minute Book, Vol. VII., p. 196. 1 page.
[About June 16.]	3. Petition of Martha Bastin, widow, to the Lords of the Treasury, for payment of the arrears of her pension. Rec^d 16 June '97. Minuted:—“To be considered when ye rest of ye pensioners are paid.” Part of a page.
[About June 17.]	4. The case of Michael Cope and partners, assignees of the farmers of the lotteries, addressed to the Lords of the Treasury. Some inferior magistrates, out of humour and prejudice, took the liberty to suppress their deputies and agents, and send them to gaol; and others had followed their example, hindering their agents, &c.: also the King had erected a million lottery, and another for 140,000l., and other persons had set up lotteries, and in contempt of their grant said it was void, so that of late they had disbursed 3,000l. more than they received. Rec^d 17 June '97. Minuted:—“Read ult. Junii 1697.” “Order'd that the farmers in the first place doe pay their arreares of rent, and afterwards, if they will bring proofs of these allegacions, my Lords will hear and consider them.” 1 page.
June 17.	5. Letter from the Com^rs of the Navy Office to the Lord Orford, praying him to solicit the Lords of the Treasury to pay the 500l. to be imprested to John Bridger and Benjamin Furzer, who were going to New England to join Wm. Partridge, Esq., and Mr. Tho. Bletsoe, to render an account of the colony with relation to ship timber, &c. for the service of the navy. Dated 17 June '97. 1 page.
June 17.	6. Letter from Mr. Blathwayt to Mr. Lowndes. The King's pleasure was that 200l. be paid to Mr. Guy or his order for the use of a person on whom the King was pleased to bestow it; accompanied by two letters of Mr. Henry Guy, nominating Mr. Eddowes as the person to receive the 200l. Dated, Camp near Brussells, 27 June, N.S. 3 small pages.
[About June 17.]	7. Petition of Henry Hart, clerk to the Com^rs and Justices appointed for putting in execution the Act for a duty on marriages in the parish of St. Margaret, Westminster; praying for an allowance of the money expended by him, and consideration for his pains and attendance. Rec^d 17 June '97. Also his bill for the same, with certificate of the Com^rs added, approving thereof. 2 pages.
June 18.	8. Report of Mr. Chas. Fox to the Lords of the Treasury, on the petition of Sir Pury Cust, formerly captain of a troop of horse, in the Lord Cavendishe's regiment, then commanded by the Duke of Schonberg; praying for an order for the payment of 146l. 8s., due for accoutrements provided for his troop; advising that it was reasonable that it should be paid out of the off-reckonings of the regiment. Dated 18 June 1697. Also the petition. 2 pages.
June 21.	9. Letter from Mr. Blathwayt to Mr. Lowndes, enclosing a letter from Mr. Cresset, the King's envoy extraordinary to the Courts of Lunenbourg and Denmark, to be laid before the Lords of the Treasury for their directions; further stating that Mr. Stepney, who had arrived with the German troops, prayed their Lordships' consideration that he might discharge some of his most pressing debts. Dated, Camp near Brussels, 1 July 1697, N.S. 2 pages.
June 21.	10. Letter signed “Ja. Vernon” to the Lords of Treasury, respecting a state of the quit rents due from the Protestants which the Parliament of Ireland addressed to His Majesty to have discharged, on which their Excellencies [the Lords Justices of England] would be glad to have their Lordships' opinion. Dated 21 June '97. Minuted:—“23 June '97. That my Lords cannot be ready to give their opinions for discharging so considerable a part of ye King's settled revenue. That in this case the quitt rents have been granted in mortgage for 33,050l. and interest, the greatest part unpaid, and the estate in law is not in the K., but ye mortgagees. Nevertheless, if there be a reason of state to part with these arrears of quitt rents for a recompence in Parl^t, my Lords shall not insist ag^t w^t is p[ro]posed.” “A letter writ in answer.” See Letter Book, Vol. IX., p. 294. Parts of 2 pages.
June 21.	11. Letter from Mr. Blathwayt to Mr. Lowndes, sending the copy of a letter received from the Earl of Gallway, touching the commencement of his salary [as one of the Lords Justices of Ireland], for the consideration of the Lords of the Treasury, upon whose report the King would declare his pleasure. Dated “Camp,” 1 July 1697, N.S. Accompanied by the letter, in French, in which he states that he, together with the Marquis of Winchester, wrote to render an account of the state of affairs in Ireland; he believed there was a good disposition with relation to the next Parliament, the affairs of the army and offices (places) were not quite as he could wish, he would work to remedy them after the assembly of the Parliament. He then goes on to speak of his salary. In the Minute Book, Vol. VII., p. 204, 25 June 1697, is:—“To see when the allowances to former Gov^rs of Irel^d com[m]enced, & a report to be transmitted to ye K. concerning my L^d Galway's dem^d.” 2 pages.
June 21.	12. Report of Sir Thomas Trevor, Attorney-General, to the Lords of the Treasury, on a cause then depending in the Court of Exchequer between the King as plaintiff, and Nicholas Oursell, George More, and Thomas Merrett, defendants, for the duties of the corn by them imported. Dated 21 June 1697. Minuted:—“29^th June 1697. Take off the stop of prosecution.” The petition and case of the defendants, two other petitions, and a paper showing the quantities of corn imported by them, and a representation by Wm. Middleton, who was perhaps in some way connected with the same business, though the connection is not apparent. Dated 27 Oct. 1697. 10 pages or parts of pages.
June 22.	13. Letter of Mr. James Vernon to the Lords of the Treasury, respecting short allowance money for the seamen. The sick seamen suffer for want of being provided for on shore by the Com^rs for sick and wounded; desiring their Lordships to inquire into it. Dated 22 June '97. Minuted:—“My Lords have given mo. to both.” 1 page (quarto).
[About June 22.]	14. Letter from Edward Nealson, Mayor of Berwick, to the Lords of the Treasury, acknowledging their Lordships' letter, which was a great comfort. The recorder had given a true representation of their necessities, which were very deplorable. The inhabitants were willing, beyond their means, to supply the garrison; setting forth their losses and calamities, and praying their Lordships to show a tenderness to the garrison in supplying them. There are minutes on the back to the effect that the letter was read on the 22 and 23 June 1697, and a letter written to the Com^rs of Excise. 3 pages (quarto).
June 22.	15. Letter by direction of the Admiralty to Mr. Lowndes for the information of the Lords of the Treasury. There was no hope of any sick men being received into quarters without a supply of money. Dated 22 June 1697. ½ page.
June 22.	16. Representation by the Com^rs for sick and wounded seamen &c., to the Lords of the Treasury. They had paid one year's quarters at Deal, Dover, Sandwich, and Margate, and had sent to pay a year and a half at Portsmouth, Gosport, &c., but notwithstanding the agent at Dover had used all his interest he could not get one poor sick man lodged, till the people were moved with his begging to be carried aboard to die; the men were in danger of being starved at Deal, and it would be difficult to get those in tents removed into quarters, the landladies having sold or pawned their all; praying for a sum of money to prevent these complaints. Dated 22 June 1697. Minuted:—“Read, 23 June '97. Read it again in ye afternoon.” In the Minute Book, Vol. VII., p. 225, 21 July 1697, is:—“Sick and wounded Com^rs to have lottery tickets out of the proporcions for the wages, and vic^t. in proportion to 36,000^li for the year.” 1 page.
June 22.	17. Report of the Com^rs of Customs to the Lords of the Treasury, in favour of an increase of pay to the land surveyors of the port of London, in consequence of increased duties. Dated 22 June 1697. Enclosing a previous report on the same subject, dated 19 Feb. 1695–6, and two petitions of the said land surveyors. Minuted:—“22 June 1697. My Lords will consider of this.” 5 pages.
June 22.	18. Similar report on the petition of Jonathan and Benjamin Furley, merchants of Colchester, touching cut whalebone imported by them; in favour of relief. Dated 22 June 1697. Minuted:—“Agreed.” Also the petition and an affidavit. 3 pages.
June 23.	19. Necessaries “de termino Paschæ an^o R^s Gulielmi tertii ix^o anno dom. 1697.” Also in Trinity term. They are chiefly stationery stores for the use of the auditors, the attorney and solicitor general, the surveyor general, &c. Trinity term ended 23 June in 1697. 1¼ large pages.
[About June 23.]	20. Petition of Frances How, who was niece to Col. Maurice Kingwell, deceased, who carried forces to Tangier for King Charles II., and disbursed more than 5,000l. about the same, for which he had a pension of 200l. a year; praying for a year's pension, to satisfy those who attended him, he having been deprived of his sight and limbs. Rec^d 23 June '97. Minuted:—“11 June '97 [sic]. Rejected.” 1 page.
About June 23.	21. Petition of Urban Hall and partners to the King. He had quietly enjoyed the possession of Dyers Wharf, with the liberty of landing and shipping iron and steel, but had of late been hindered in the same. Praying that it might be made a free quay for 99 years for landing and shipping iron and steel. Accompanied by a certificate, signed by 30 persons, as to the fitness of the wharf for the purpose desired, &c. Minuted:—“Rec^d 23 June '97. M^r Chancell^r of y^e Excheq^r. 7^th July '97. Ref. to Com^rs Customes.” 2 pages.
[About June 23.]	22. Petition of Dorothy Mawgridge, widow, to the Lords of the Treasury, showing that she had a pension of 12d. a day for 20 years, in consideration of the loss of a father and husband in the King's service; but it was then 2¼ years in arrear, and she was ready to perish. Praying their Lordships to pity a widow of 74 years of age. Rec^d 23 June '97. Minuted:—“To be p^d by my L^d Ranelagh when there is any mony in his hands for this purpose, according to ye proportion p^d to other pens^rs.” 1 page.
[? Before June 24.]	23. Petition of Algernon Earl of Essex to the King. His uncle, the late Lord Capel, was charged with poundage, &c. for the hospital, about 200l. Praying that the executors to Lord Capel might be discharged of these allowances of poundage. There is a memorandum that the King was inclined to grant the request, but referred it to the Lords of the Treasury. Dated at the camp at Cockleberg, near Brussels, the 24 June/4 July 1697. Minuted:—“Read 14 July '97. Report that it is my Lords opinion it is not reasonable to take it from y^e hospital to give it to y^e chief Gov^r, whose imploym^t was so very considerable.” 1 page.
June 24.	24. Letter, by direction of the Admiralty, to Mr. Lowndes, enclosing an extract from a letter of the principal officers of the Navy, as to the want of timber in the yards and the backwardness of the merchants to supply the same; and desiring to be furnished from the New Forest. To be communicated to the Lords of the Treasury. Dated 24 June 1697. Also the said extract. 2 parts of pages.
[About June 24.]	25. Petition of John Little, Esq., late High Sheriff of Essex, for repayment of 191l. 15s. 11 d. overpaid on his account. Minuted:—“Rec^d 24^th June '97. Read 30^th [?]. Granted.” ½ page.
June 25.	26. Letter from Wm. Popple to Mr. Lowndes, written by direction of the Lords of the Council of Trade, to desire him to move the Lords of the Treasury for the payment of the salaries, in accordance with the establishment for the Council of Trade. Dated 25 June 1697. Letter of the Duke of Shrewsbury to the Lords of the Treasury, enclosing the draft of an establishment for the Council of Trade and Plantations, with their officers and attendants, which the King directed should be laid before him when next attended by their Lordships. Dated 11 Apr. 1697. The draft referred to, and a duplicate containing in addition “The names of the clerks and other officers not expressed on the other side.” Copy of the letters patent appointing the Com^rs for Trade. 10 pages and 2 parts.
June 25.	27. Report of the Com^rs of Customs to the Lords of the Treasury, on the petition of John Sandford and John Bubb, of Bristol, merchants, as to the payment of certain debentures taken out on the shipment of tobacco. Dated 25 June 1697. Also the petition and an account. Minuted:—“Read 13 [July '97.] To be paid out of any arreares of the dutys by the former acts that may be applyed to the paym^t of these deb^rs, & in default thereof out of seizures.” 5 pages.
June 25.	28a. Report of Lord Ranelagh to the Lords of the Treasury, on the petition of Col. Luke Lillingston, praying repayment of 119 days' subsistence, advanced to his officers during their voyage to the West Indies in 1695, which he alleged he borrowed and paid interest for. Dated 25 June 1697. Minuted:—“To be paid in lott^y ticq^ts.” 2 pages.
June 25.	28b. Report, signed “B. Bridges, aud^r,” to the Lords of the Treasury, on the petition of the executors of Mr. Robert Squibb, deceased, as to the moneys received by Mr. Squibb for redemption of English captives; showing how the account then stood, including 100l. collected and paid to him by Dr. Cawley, archdeacon of Lincoln. Further showing what Mr. Bowtell's claims were for the redemption of English captives. He was obliged to redeem some for whom he had no orders, as the “patrons” of such as were to be redeemed, many times refused to part with two unless a third was added. Dated 25 June 1697. Minuted:—“Granted.” Copies of the order in Council referring it to the Lords of the Treasury, and the above petition. 5 pages.
June 26.	29. Report of the Com^rs of Revenue for Ireland to the Lords Justices of Ireland, concerning the lands, mortgages, and leases, as yet undisposed of, to the value of 400l. per ann., petitioned for by Doctor John Leslie, and mentioned in a schedule transmitted to them by the Lords of the Treasury. Dated 26 June 1697. Also “A schedule of lands, &c. desired by Doctor Lesley” out of a large number of forfeited estates therein set out. 10 pages.
June 28.	30. Report of the Com^rs of Customs to the Lords of the Treasury, on the petition of Henry Swynburn, merchant, of Newcastle, touching a parcel of cut whalebone belonging to him, seized by the officers of Newcastle; praying to be allowed to make an entry of the same; advising that relief should be granted to him. Dated 28 June 1697. Also the petition and two other papers. Minuted:—“Read 29 Jan. '97. Granted.” 4 pages or parts of pages,
June 28.	31. Letter of the Lords Justices of Ireland to the Lords of the Treasury, respecting the petition of three children of Sir Charles Porter, who desired certain forfeited lands to the value of 400l. a year; some of which the Earl of Meath and others had already begged for. Dated 28 June 1697. Report of the Com^rs of Revenue thereon. 2 pages and 2 halves.
June 28.	32. Letter from Mr. Blathwayt to Mr. Lowndes. The army was under the greatest necessities for want of their subsistence. Encloses a proposition for supplying Mr. Hill with 20,000l. immediately; which the King would have their Lordships comply with, if possible. Also encloses an extract from a letter from Lord Gallway, concerning Lady Stapleton, whom the King was inclined to gratify, and to grant the like value elsewhere for the satisfaction of her debt from Sir Patrick Trant. Dated Camp near Brussels, 8 July 1697, [N.S.] Accompanied by the “Proposition” and “Extract,” the latter in French. Minuted:—“Read 6 July '97, O.S.” The following, in relation to Lady Stapleton's case, is entered in the Minute Book, Vol. VII., p. 212, 7 July 1697:— “Mr. Montagu of counsel for E. Galwey & M^r Upton of counsel for Lady Stapleton. The latter produces a decree for 8,443. 17. 4., dated 4 Feb. 1^o W. & M. M^r Upton saies when this decree was obteyned Ireland was in other hands; else they could have reacht his estate; and insists upon a promise of my Lord Galwey that he would not enjoy the estate, unless she were satisfied. Miles Stapleton offers to make aff^t to that purpose. They had the decree three years before Trant's utlary, and could have had a sequestracon, if y^e troubles had not been in Irełd. “M^r Montagu saies the decree could not have affected Trant's estate, for he was in rebellion; & the outlawry would have related to the time of y^e treason comitted, & does not admitt that if there had been no attainder, a decree in Chancery here could have reached lands in Ireland. “Upton saies it binds personalty and not ye lands; but as a debitum justitiœ, the decree in England shall reach ye profits in Ireland, as much as an estate in England per a sequestr^on. “M^r Montagu saies a decree here does not bind in Ireland as it does in England, but it is a matter to begin upon. “Upton saies the King certifies ye decree into Ireland, and then it has ye same effect as if 'twere a decree there, without any new hearing; & upon this offers to putt ye issue. “M^r Baker is to informe my Lords of the time to w^ch the utlary of S^r Patrick Trant for treason hath relac[i]on. “She saies she had rather have it out of any estate other then Trant's. “M^r Montagu saies, they are desirous it should be satisfied some other way, & does not object to y^e justice of her debt. “It is my Lords opinion, that my Lady Stapleton's debt is just. That in equity & justice it ought to be charged on S^r Patric Trant's estate; & they cannot advise the granting of that estate to any other till she be satisfied.” 3 pages.
June 29.	33. Letter, signed Wm. Popple, addressed to Wm. Lowndes, Esq. The Commissioners of Trade had commanded him to transmit an order of Council, relating to the exemption of their letters from postage; and further, desiring the favour of the Lords of the Treasury for the payment of the salaries and allowances of their commission. Dated 29 June 1697. Minuted:—“Ult. Jun. '97. The revenue of y^e Post Office is appropriated. Their sallarys & allowances to be p^d out of lottery tickets.” Also the order in Council, and a copy of a report of the Lords of the Treasury to the Lords Justices thereon. 3 pages.
June 29.	34. Report of [Sir] Thomas Trevor [Attorney-General], made on the memorial of the Com^rs of Prizes, and on the report of the Com^rs of Customs, to the Lords of the Treasury, on the memorial concerning the lading of the ship St. Peter, of Ostend; being a prize retaken from the French by His Majesty's ship Anglesey; viz., as to the duties to be levied on the cargo. Advising that on Flanders lace and hair buttons no customs were payable. Dated 29 June 1697. Minuted:—“Read 13 July 1697. My Lords cannot make any order, because these whole dutys are appropriated.” Accompanied by the report mentioned, together with the memorial of the Com^rs for Prizes. 4 pages and 2 halves.
June 29.	35. Representation by the Com^rs for sick and wounded seamen, &c. to the Lords of the Treasury, reiterating the same complaints as those represented on 22 June. Dated 29 June 1697. 1 page.
June 29.	36. Report of the Agents for Taxes, addressed to the Lords of the Treasury, on the petition of Nicholas Baker, receiver-general of the third 4s. in the pound aid, for the county and city of Worcester, as to the extraordinary charges craved by him, amounting to 144l. 15s., advising that he should be allowed 100l. Dated 29 June '97. The petition and the account of the charges. 3 pages.
[About June 30.]	37. Petition of William Conery to the Lords of the Treasury, for the payment of the 20l. bounty, for which Gilbert Wharton, clerk, had obtained the Bishop of London's letter to their Lordships, he having gone as chaplain to Barbadoes, and the petitioner having lent him the money for his equipment. “Rec^d ult. June '97.” 1 page.
[About June 30.]	38. Petition of Elizabeth Love, widow, showing that her son, Edward Love, died a lieutenant in Flanders, in a regiment of dragoons, praying for arrears of pay to him amounting to about 100l. “Rec^d ult. Junii '97. Ref. to my L^d Ranelagh.” 1 page.
June 30.	39. Letter signed Fr. Nicholson, without address, commencing “Honoured Sir,” hoping the fleet had arrived safely in England, and paid a good round sum into the Treasury, and that the “bright Aronoco” would sell at a great rate in Holland. He hoped Mr. President Blayer, who went with the last fleet, had presented his (Mr. Nicholson's) letter, containing a full account of all their affairs. He had sent by this opportunity an account of that province, and would be glad of their Lordships' commands by the next fleet. Dated “Maryland, Port Annapolis, 30 June 1697.” 1 page.
July 1.	40. Letter from Mr. Blathwayt to Mr. Lowndes. The King, to supply the pressing necessities of the army, had ordered Mr. Hill to draw on the Earl of Ranelagh for 30,000l. sterl., payable to Mr. James Bateman, and the like bills in favour of Mr. Robert Raworth. The King's pleasure was that the Lords of the Treasury should enable the Earl to give them the satisfaction they desired. Dated Camp near Brussels, the 1/11 July 1697. Minuted:—“Read 6 July '97. O.S.” 2 pages.
July 5.	41. Letter from the same to the same, sending a letter which had been received from the President de la Tour, in order that the Lords of the Treasury might put a speedy issue to the matter in difference. Dated Camp near Brussels, the 5/15 July 1697. The letter relates to tallies in the hands of Mons. le Chevalier Herne for 25,000l. sterling. Minuted:—“Rec^d 15^th July, O.S. Read w^th y^e inclosed eođ die.” 3 pages.
July 5.	42. Another letter from the same to the same. The King desired him to return for answer that the Earl of Gallway's case seemed to differ from others, in that he was appointed one of the Lords Justices of Ireland, in conjunction with the late Lords Justices, and would have sooner taken possession of that trust, if a second commission had not passed, for which he ought not to be a sufferer; and, as in the case of the Earl of Romney, his appointments ought to have taken place from some day certain, before receiving the sword, if not, from the time of kissing the King's hand: referring the matter to the Lords of the Treasury. Also returning six warrants signed by the King. The docquet shows them to have related to— 1. Royal Lustring Company, 2,400l. 2. Agents for taxes. 3. Rich. Aplin 40l., in Ireland. 4. Borough of Macclesfield 50l. per ann. 5. For felling 1,000 trees in New Forest. 6. For discharge of Col. G. Hamilton's rent. With a postscript, ordering the payment of 37,500 rix dollars to Mr. Stratford for the Duke of Holstein, and that some speedy provision should be made for the buckhounds. Dated “Camp,” the 5/15 July 1697. “Rec^d 15 July, O.S.” Minuted:—“Read eođ die.” 2 ½ pages.
July 6.	43. Report of Mr. Isaac Newton and other officers of the Mint to the Lords of the Treasury, on the petition of James Roettiers, engraver of the Mint, stating that the dies and puncheons in his custody were seized, by direction of a committee of the House of Commons, backed by a vote of the House, and he was removed from his employment, and other particulars about him: submitting to their Lordships whether he should be any more employed as engraver, &c., and whether his father should still be allowed a habitation in the Mint. Dated 6 July '97. Minuted:—“Read 6 July '97.” Also the petition referred to.
July 6.	44. Report of the Com^rs of Customs to the Lords of the Treasury, on the petition of several persons who had prayed to compound their impost debts, according to the provision of a late Act of Parliament, more especially as to the debt of John Lavie; advising relief. Dated 6 July 1697. Another report on the same subject. Dated 8 May 1696. Also two petitions of the said John Lavie and one of Mary Lavie, and two other documents. Minuted:—“Read 13 July '97. Agreed. W^t signed 7 7ber 1697. 6¼ pages.
July 6.	45. Petition of Richard Barker to the Lords of the Treasury, that his case might be considered, he having been discharged from his office of “Supervisor in the Distillery of London.” Received 6 July “1696” [should be 1697]. Minuted:—“Read 20 July '97. The Com^rs say he was fully heard & found very negligent or unfaithfull: my Lords dismiss the petition.” Also his case more fully set out. 2 pages.
July 6.	46a. Petition of Stephen Mason and William Parrett, merchants of London, to the Lords of the Treasury, showing that two of their ships laden with plantation goods, as in the memorial annexed, had been taken by the French, retaken by Guernsey privateers, and carried to that island: praying that the Com^rs for Prizes might have orders to have them brought home. Dated on the back July 6, '97. Minuted:—“An order to y^e Com^rs of Prizes to cause these ships to [be] bro^t to port of Londⁿ.” ½ page.
July 6.	46b. Articles of agreement made between the Rt. Hon. Charles Montague, Esq., Chancellor and Under Treasurer of the Exchequer, Sir Stephen Fox, Kt., John Smith, Esq., Sir Thomas Littleton, Bart., and Thomas Pelham, Lords of the Treasury, on the King's behalf, and Richard Long, of London, mariner, who had represented to the King that he had great reason to believe he could discover some mines of gold and silver or other treasure in America not possessed by Christians, at whose request the King ordered a sixth rate frigate to be fitted, &c., to sail for America under Long's direction, to search for the same. Richard Long covenanted to undertake a voyage to search, and that for the expense of fitting out the ship, &c., the King should have all the benefit until 10,000l. were paid, and during seven years the King was to receive nine parts of the whole discovery, the remaining 10th part to be reserved to Richard Long, and after seven years the King to have the whole. The gold, silver, &c. to be brought to the port of London, together with the ship, in two years. Rich. Long further agreed with the trustees for the Duke of Schomberg and Leinster (who had a grant to fish for certain wrecks in America) to fish for such wrecks upon consideration of 100 shares, the whole being divided into 1,600 shares, which were to be assigned by the trustees to the Lords of the Treasury for the King's use (being above the 10th part reserved by this grant), and after he had made the search for the mines he was to be allowed to search for and take up such wrecks. Dated 6 July 1697. The following entry in the Minute Book, Vol. VII., p. 199, 22 June 1697, relates to the above expedition:— “M^r Long comes in w^th S^r James Houblon & al. M^r Long having agreed w^th the D. of Shrewsbury on y^e K. behalfe, That a voiage be made to America to discov^r and gain gold & silver. That the King be at y^e whole charge of a ship. That the K. have y^e 1^st 10,000^l for y^e charge of planting: that afterwards, y^e K. to have 9/10^ths & M^r Long to have 1/10^th for 7 years, and afterwards y^e K. to have y^e whole. A warr^t for 100^l for Rich^d Long.” 1 membrane (parchment).
[About July 6.]	47. Petition of John Lansdowne, Esq., to the Lords of the Treasury, praying for the appointment of a day for hearing him and George Long, Esq., who had entered a caveat against the passing a lease of coal mines in Somersetshire to the petitioner. “Rec^d 6^th July '97.” ½ page.
July 7.	48. Petition of Jane Adams, widow and relict of Capt. Robert Adams, for relief, she being very distressed, having lost her husband in the King's service in the late war of Ireland. Docquetted:—“7^th July '97.” 1 page.
July 7.	49. Letter from the Lords Justices of Ireland to the Lords of the Treasury. It had been represented to them by the Com^rs of Revenue and forfeitures, that the governments there had published several proclamations, promising a fourth part of the lands discovered; and it was a matter of complaint that that promise had not been fulfilled: asking that power might be given them to reward the discoverers past and future, by granting them a fourth part in an Exchequer lease, where it was too small to pass letters patent. Dated 7 July 1697. Minuted:—“21 July '97. To be laid before the King. Agreed.” Accompanied by the representation of the Com^rs and the copy of a clause in their commission for the forfeitures relating to the reward of the discoverers. 4¼ pages.
July 7.	50. Letter of the Board of Ordnance to the Lords of the Treasury, stating that bare promises will no longer give their artificers any satisfaction, that they were in want of stores, but could not supply them except at most extravagant rates: desiring the “speedy appointment” of the remainder due on this year's appropriations, an account of which is enclosed. Dated 7 July 1697. The account. 2 pages.
[About July 7.]	51. A paper headed:—“A memoriall presented to the Lords of the Treasury, relating to the manor of Richmond, in Surrey.” It is not stated from whom it came. It contains various particulars as to repairs, encroachments, &c. “Rec^d 7 July.” Minuted:—“Read 22 7^br '97. M^r Hillyard is to prosecute the discovery of ye rents, the tile-kilnes, & the inclosures at the King's charge, to be defrayed out of the rents of y^e mannor.” 1 page.
[? About July 7.]	52. Petition of Mary Cock to the Lords of the Treasury, showing that her father Robert Lennis, Doctor of Laws, was executed by the government of Oliver Cromwell for his adherence to King Charles II., who on that account granted her a pension of 40l. per ann., which was then in arrears 2½ years; praying for payment of the same, and for its continuance. Docquetted:—“7^th July '97.” 1 page.
July 8.	53. Report of Mr. Charles Dering, Auditor-General, to the Lords Justices General and General Governors of Ireland, on the petition of Sir John Jeffreyson, Knt., Thomas Coote, and Nehemiah Donnelan, Esqrs., as to what was due to the petitioners of their salaries or allowances according to the establishment as Commissioners for custody of the Great Seal. Dated 8 July 1697. Also the petition referred to. 2 pages and 2 halves.
July 8.	54. Letter from Mr. Blathwayt to Mr. Lowndes. The King had noticed that there was paid to the privy purse 10,000l. less than was ordered out of the second 100,000l. upon the malt, and commanded that the Lords of the Treasury should make it up. Dated “Camp,” the 8/18 July 1697. Rec^d 15 July, O. S. Minuted: “Read eođ die.” In the Minute Book, Vol. VII., p. 222, 16 July 1697, is:—“My Lords have ordered the 10,000^li to the Pr. purse.” 1 page.
July 8.	55. Representation by the Com^rs for sick and wounded seamen, &c. to the Lords of the Treasury, enclosing extracts from letters from Com^r Addison, asking to be enabled to provide for men set on shore at Torbay; also stating that at “Rochester and adjacents” they were daily clamoured on, the more because they heard others were paid. Dated 8 July 1697. 1 page.
July 8.	56. Letter from Mr. Blathwayt to Mr. Lowndes, returning two warrants signed for the allowance to the Chief Justice of Chester, and for a grant to Mr. Railton of debt in Ireland; and further signifying the King's pleasure that Mons. Schuylembourg should receive tallies for the payment of his bills of exchange, at the rate of 9 guilders to a pound sterling, about which their Lordships had made difficulties. Dated “Camp,” 8/18 July 1697. Rec^d 15 July, O. S. Minuted:—“Read eod. die.” 1½ pages.
July 9.	57. Letter of Mr. Lowndes, apparently to the Com^rs of Excise, requesting on the part of the Lords of the Treasury, a statement as to the discharge of the duties of the several officers under their employ, and their observations as to how the offices could best be carried on for the future. Dated 9 July 1697. The Com^rs of Excise made their report on the 29th of July. See Minute Book, Vol. VII., p. 235, where there is a good deal about the administration of that office. ½ page.
July 9.	58. Letter from Wm. Popple to Mr. Lowndes, stating that he had laid his letter before the Com^rs for Trade, enclosing the petition of Mr. Chidley Brook, collector and receiver of New York, for allowance for his services and his voyages. The Com^rs had not been able to find a precedent, but considered his trouble during the war had been greater in receiving the taxes than that of his predecessors, and recommended him to the Government of that province for suitable allowance. Dated 9 July 1697. Accompanied by the petition, in which he states that he was taken prisoner by the French, and kept three months; also an abstract from the Custom-house books, comparing the petitioner's charges with those of one Mr. Brenton. Minuted:—“20 July '97. He must apply to the Government of New York. Parts of 3 pages.
July 12.	59. Letter from Mr. Blathwayt to Mr. Lowndes, signifying the King's pleasure to the Lords of the Treasury, that they should cause to be delivered to their correspondent, Mr. Medina, the value of 1,000 florins in Exchequer bills for the deliveries of bread, as Mr. Hill was not in a capacity by the great arrears due to the army, to pay Messrs. Pereira and Machado, the undertakers for the bread. Dated “Camp at Cockleberg, 12/22 July 1697.” Minuted:—“Read 20 July '97.” 1 page (quarto.)
July 12.	60. Letter from the same to the same, sending his Majesty's especial recommendation to the Lords of the Treasury, to take immediate care for the payment of the bills drawn by the Comte de Frise and Mr. Van der Meer, for the subsistence of the King's forces upon the Rhine, by Exchequer bills or otherwise; also conveying His Majesty's order to their Lordships to make some further provision for the subsistence of those troops, according to the establishment and paper of distributions transmitted to the Earl of Ranelagh. With a postscript, acknowledging the receipt of the letter, giving an account of the remittance of 130,000l. to Mr. Hill. Dated “Camp,” 12/22 July 1697. Minuted:—“Read 20 July '97.” In the Minute Book, Vol. VII., p. 251, 1 Sept. 1696, is:— “Ditto [i.e. Ea. Ranelagh] for Count de Frize bills. 5,000^li in d^o [i.e. Exchequer bills] to answer the bills of Count de Frize & Mons^r Vandermaar for paym^t of his Ma^ts forces on ye Rhine.” 1½ pages (qnarto).
July 12.	61. Letter of the Lords Justices of Ireland to the Lords of the Treasury, on the application of Wm. Conelly, Esq., on behalf of the Earl of Albemarle, who was deficient of the yearly sum of 2,000l. directed to be passed to him out of the forfeitures in Ireland, sending the report of the Com^rs of Revenue and Forfeitures, with lists or schedules of the lands already passed to, and then desired by the said Lord Albemarle, to the value of upwards of 2,600l. per ann. Dated 12 July 1697. The report and list of lands already passed in patent to his Lordship. [The other list is not with it.] 10 pages.
July 13.	62. Letter of the same to the same, on the petition of the Com^rs for the custody of the Great Seal and execution of the office of Chancellor, for allowance of their wages. Dated 13 July 1697. [The petition and report thereon are not now with the letter.] 3 pages.
July 13.	63. Representation by the Com^rs for sick and wounded seamen, &c. to the Lords of the Treasury, to the same effect as that of 8 July preceding, enclosing the letter of Com^r Addison. Dated 13 July 1697. 3 pages.
July 13.	64. Letter of the Lords Justices of Ireland to the Lords of the Treasury, recommending Brigadier Wolsley as well deserving His Majesty's favour of a grant of lands out of the forfeited estates in Ireland. Dated 13 July 1697. Accompanied by his petition, “A list of forfeited estates past in custodiam to Brigad^r W^m Wolseley,” and a letter from him, not addressed. 6 pages.
July 13.	65. Presentment by the Com^rs of Customs to the Lords of the Treasury, seeking that the Com^rs of Prizes might be directed to make it part of the condition of the sale of prize goods in Jersey and Guernsey, to bring the same to this kingdom, and here pay the custom. Dated 13 July 1697. Minuted:—“Read 13 D^o; an order to be prepared for this.” 1½ pages.
[? About July 14.]	66. Letter of [Dr.] Jn. Gostling to the Lords of the Treasury. The King had granted him the arrears of his allowance of 50 guineas per ann., which came to 440l., and had confirmed the same for the future; begs their Lordships to give the necessary orders. Minuted:—“The King ordered this. “To be p[ai]d 100^£ p[er] W. L., when there is mo., and 100^£ at the end of every year, till ye arrears are p[ai]d; and after that y^e 50^li a year to be continued. “14 July '97. The first 100^l to be p[ai]d out of lottery ticq^ts.” Part of a page.
July 14.	67. Letter of the Lords Justices of Ireland to the Lords of the Treasury, on the petition of John Butcher, gent., to the King, praying for the reversion of certain quit rents for a term of years, to the value of 883l. 9s. per ann.; sending the state thereof, as certified by the Com^rs for Revenue of that kingdom; adding that they could by no means advise the lessening of the King's interest in the quit and Crown rents, being the most certain and advantageous revenue belonging to the Crown in Ireland, &c. Dated 14 July 1697. Accompanied by the report referred to of the said Com^rs. 2 pages.
July 15.	68. Report of the Agents for Taxes to the Lords of the Treasury, on the petition of George Howells, Esq., Receiver-General of the first and second 4s. aid for the counties of Carmarthen, Glamorgan, Pembroke, and Haverford West, the second quarterly poll, and review of the first quarterly poll, and of the third 4s. aid for the said counties and the county of Cardigan, and on the particular of extraordinary charges by him craved, amounting to 995l. 10s. 10d.; recommending the allowance to him of 320l. for the same. Dated 15 July '97. The petition and schedules of his expenses. 6 pages.
July 15.	69. Letter of Mr. Blathwayt to Mr. Lowndes. The King had agreed with some “undertakers” to provide immediately a magazine at Gand and elsewhere, consisting of 2,000,000 of rations, on condition they were paid in advance 30,000l. sterling, and a deposit in some third hand of tickets or tallies upon the malt for 30,000l. more: the King's express pleasure was that the Lords of the Treasury should make an immediate remittance of the first sum and deposit the tickets or tallies for the satisfaction of the contractors. With this postscript— The reason of this great advance and security, so much beyond what has been demanded for former years, is occasioned by the loss of our credit, which makes it absolutely necessary that the foregoing conditions be complied with. Dated, Camp at Cockleberg, 15/25 July 1697. Minuted:—“Read 27 July '97.” In the Minute Book, Vol. VII., p. 229, 27 July 1697, is:— “The bills for 30,000l. drawne p[er] M^r Hill upon ye E. of Ranelagh for subsist. in Flanders, & payable to M^r Bateman, Sir H. Furnese, & S^r Theo. Jansen, to be p[ai]d in Excheq^r bills: viz^t. 20,000^li by the middle of Aug. & 10,000^li p[er] ye middle of 7br.” 2 pages (quarto).
July 15.	70. Letter from the same to the same, drawing the attention of the Lords of the Treasury to the fact that the Earl of Gallway had represented to the King that several warrants were lying unsigned by them, relating to pensions in Ireland, and enclosing another for an additional pension of 5s. a day to Mr. Chabrolle further informing their Lordships that the King allowed out of, Lord Ranelagh's office 200l. per ann., to one Cailland, of which pension there was nearly a year due, and the King's pleasure was that their Lordships should satisfy the same. Dated “Camp,” 15/25 July 1697. Minuted:—“Read 27 July '97. Speak with E. Ranelagh about Cailland.” There is the following minute in the Minute Book, Vol. VIII., p. 207, 18 July 1698:—“250^li to Mon^r Caillan to be paid on his contingent warrant.” 1 page.
July 17.	71. Report of the Com^rs of Customs to the Lords of the Treasury, on the petition of Thomas Kent, commander of the “Slaughter” galley, praying to be excused from payment of the one per cent., as other galleys were, having but one deck, &c.; leaving it to their Lordships to decide as the vessel was within the meaning of the Act though not according to its letter. The petition and two other papers. Minuted:—“Read 27 July '97. The one p[er] cent. to be discharged.” 1 page and 4 parts of pages.
July 19.	72. Letter from Mr. Blathwayt to Mr. Lowndes, sending the King's commands to the Lords of the Treasury that a warrant should be prepared for His Majesty's signature, as he had bestowed a collar of SS. upon the city of Dublin, with His Majesty's effigies thereon, of the value of about 700 guineas, the cost of which was to be borne by the Treasury of Ireland. Also sending a petition of the Com^rs for Transportation of the Forces, praying that the taxes on their salaries might be placed among the contingencies of their office by reason of their near relation to the army; referring the same to their Lordships. Dated 19/29 July 1697. Accompanied by the petition. Minuted:—“Read 29 July '97. W^t for y^e coll^r of SS. done. The King's pleasure to be rec^d concerning y^e Com^rs of Transport's taxes. Read 20 Ap. '98. Respited.” 2 pages.
July 19.	73. Letter from Mr. Geo. Fletcher to William Lowndes, Esq. He had received his letter as to the arrears of rent due upon the late Lord Preston's estate, and was in hopes their Lordships would not have removed the King's hands till the arrears had been secured. He had told their Lordships that what was in arrear was in the tenants' hands, &c. He feared they could not then call on the tenants. Dated 19 July 1697. 1 page.
July 20.	74. Report of the Com^rs of Excise to the Lords of the Treasury, on the petition of Mr. Charles Brawne, who was one of the securities of Mr. John Allen, a collector of Excise in Bristol, and was in arrear 820l. 13s. 2½d. and dismissed from his office. Dated 20 July 1697. Minuted:—“Read 20^th July 1697. Respited till next terme.” In the Minute Book, Vol. VIII., p. 254, 6 Oct. 1698, is:— “To M^r Brawne that my Lords of the Treasury have read the reports concerning his being security for M^r Allen, and desire him to send word when he wilbe in towne, that my Lords may appoint a day of hearing, and determine that affaire. M^r Townsend will take care that proceedings be stayed in ye mean time.” 2 pages.
July 20.	75. Representation by the Com^rs of Sick and Wounded Seamen to the Lords of the Treasury, praying a suitable supply. Dated 20 July 1697. In the Minute Book, Vol. VII., p. 225, 25 July 1697, is:—“Sick & Wounded Com^rs to have lottery tickets out of the proportions for the wages and vict~ in proportion to 36,000^li for the year.” 1 page.
July 21.	76. Report of Lord Ranelagh to the Lords of the Treasury, on the memorial of Major-General Leveson, praying to be paid as a general officer on the same footing as those in Flanders, he being absent from sickness; informing their Lordships that his pay would amount to 732l. 10s. for the year 1696, if they ordered it to be paid. Also the memorial. Minuted:—“To be paid in lottery ticq^ts.” Letter signed 4 Aug. 1697. 2 pages.
[About July 21.]	77. Representation of Richard Povey, receiver for the sick and wounded seamen, to the Lords of the Treasury, stating that the 5,000l. in Exchequer bills which was ordered had not yet been paid, which was prejudicial to the service, &c. Minuted:—“Read 21 July '97. The Com^rs of Navy (present) will pay in such species as they receive, and M^r Corbet will obteyne their Excheq^r bills as fast as they can be dispatcht.” 1 page.
About July 21.	78. Petition of Thomas Bignell to the Lords of the Treasury, praying for the payment of 87l. 10s. due to him for arrears for services as keeper of the King's lodge near Newmarket; almost in the same words as one? about 25 May 1697. See Vol. XLV., 56. Also copy of a certificate of his services. Indorsed:—“Rec^d 21 July '97.” Minuted:—“My Lords cannot pay this.” Parts of 2 pages.”
July 22.	79. Report of the Com^rs of Customs to the Lords of the Treasury, on the petition of William Boyle, gent., touching a parcel of money seized by an officer of the Customs in the port of Swanzey, praying for a “non pros” on the information; advising that if the petitioner would come to a composition, and their Lordships approved, then the composition should go to reimburse the King's charge. Dated 22 July 1697. Minuted:—“Agreed.” W^t signed 6 Aug. 1697. Also the petition. 2 pages.
July 22.	80. Letter by direction of the Lords Justices to the Lords of the Treasury, on the petition of the messengers of the King's chamber; recommending that a payment should be made to them suitable to their extreme necessities. Dated 22 July '97. Also an Order in Council for a fifth part of the bills of the messengers to be paid. Dated 21 Jan. 1696. 2 pages.
July 22.	81. Report of Lord Ranelagh to the Lords of the Treasury, on the petition of Frances McKenzie, widow of Lieut.-Col. McKenzie, as to the arrears amounting to 1,031l. 5s. due to her husband. Dated 22 July 1697. Minuted:—“200^li in lottery ticq^ts. L^re signed 5^th Aug^t 1697.” Also the petition. 2 pages.
July 22.	82. Report of Sir Christopher Wren to the Lords of the Treasury, in pursuance of a reference of 25 Sept. 1694 (“but never brought till within a few days since”) upon a petition of Mr. Briane, surveyor of the King's stables at Kensington, finding that the repairs necessary there would come to 35l., and there had been expended 65l. 2s. 1d. Dated 22 July 1697. Minuted:—“Read 8 7br '97. To be considered as soon as M^r Brienne comes over. In the mean time my Lords recomend it to his deputy to see the necessary repairs done before his Ma^tys coming to Kensington.” Accompanied by the petition and a copy of a warrant appointing Mr. Briane, there called “Brienne.” 2½ pages.
July 22.	83. Letter from Mr. Blathwayt to Mr. Lowndes. His Majesty would not alter the directions lately given in relation to Mr. Palmes, the teller. The pensions to be paid according to the list enclosed, out of the lottery tickets. Accompanied by the following list of pensions to be paid, viz.,—
		To the Duke of Southampton - -	1,000^li
		Duke of Northumberland -	1,000
		Duke and Duchess of Grafton -	1,000
		Duchess of Bucclugh - - -	1,250
		Duchess of Buckingham - -	740
		Lady Katherine Darnley - -	1,600
			—
			6,590
	Dated “Camp,” 1 Aug. '97, N.S. 2 pages.
July 23.	84. Letter from the Board of Ordnance to the Lords of the Treasury, respecting Mr. Meester's 7,000l. that is agreed to be paid to him. Dated 23 July 1697. 1 page (quarto).
[? About July 23.]	85. Proposal of John Bellamy to the Lords of the Treasury, as to the payment to him of 375l. 5s. and 752l. 10s. Also a certificate as to the correctness of the sums making up the first sum of 375l. 5s. Dated 23 July 1697. Minuted:—“22 Sep^r 1697. M^r Lowndes to enquire into this proposal & give my Lords an acco^t of the reasonableness thereof.” “29 Sep^r '97. The King does not allow lodging m^o out of court, nor riding charges to Kensington.” 2 pages.
[About July 23.]	86. Memorial of Col. Edward Dutton Colt to the Lords of the Treasury, representing the very pressing wants of his regiment then quartered at the Isle of Wight; praying them to direct 100l. to each of the two companies of that regiment. Received 23 July '97. Also four letters relating to the condition of the regiment. 5 pages.
July 26.	87. Letter signed W. Beeston to the Lords of the Treasury. He had transmitted [from Jamaica] by H.M. ship “Swan,” an account of money received and paid for the subsistence of Col. Lillingston's regiment of foot in that island to 21 April 1696; and now by the “Southampton” he sent the account for that regiment, reduced, extending from 21 April to 26 July 1697. He had been a “great husband” in the management of the money, and hoped they would allow him the 200l. per ann. charged for himself, as all things were so excessively dear, and his salary so mean, that it cost him at least 600l. a year of his own estate to support the dignity of the Government, there being no advantage to be had during the time of war; the place was not like the other colonies that depended on themselves and their own trade and manufactures, but there were often strangers, Spaniards, Dutch, and French, with flags of truce, who created great charges to him. The want of shipping to carry off the produce of the island, caused the goods to lie on the people's hands, and the King to lose the customs. Dated Jamaica, 26 July 1697. 2 pages.
July 27.	88. Report of the Com^rs of Customs to the Lords of the Treasury, on the petition of several persons who had prayed to compound their impost debts, according to the provisions of a late Act, more particularly as to the debt of Thomas Stevenson, merchant of London; advising that a transport debt should be received by way of composition for his debt. Dated 7 July 1697. Minuted:—“Read 27 July '97. The 488l. 11s. to be accepted. W^t signed 5 Aug^t 1697.” 1 page.
July 27.	89. Letter of Mr. James Vernon to Mr. Lowndes, sending a warrant for the establishment of the pay of four regiments of marines, to be countersigned by the Lords of the Treasury. Dated 27 July 1697. [The warrant not now with the letter.] 1 page (quarto).
July 29.	90. Letter of the Lords Justices of Ireland to the Lords of the Treasury, enclosing two accounts of all grants of lands or other beneficial grants that had passed since the King's accession, for which warrants had been signed by the King and Queen and not countersigned. Dated 29 July 1697. Accompanied by the two papers referred to, the one from the auditor-general, and the other from the clerk and keeper of the Rolls. 10 pages.
July 29.	91. Letter from Mr. Blathwayt to Mr. Lowndes. The King's pleasure was that Mr. Baber, solicitor of the Excise, should be continued in his employment till the King's return, when His Majesty might be acquainted with what was laid to his charge. Dated Loo, 8 Aug. 1697, [N.S.] 1 page (quarto).
July 29.	92. Letter of the same to the same. He had read to the King his letter relating to several reports received by the Lords of the Treasury from the Lords Justices of Ireland, upon petitions referred to their Excellencies for estates in that kingdom desired to granted; and His Majesty desired their Lordships to transmit their reports thereon, as he thought fit to take them into consideration before his return to England. Dated Loo, 8 Aug. 1697, N.S. 1 page (quarto).
July 31.	93. Letter of the Lord Justices of Ireland to the Lords of the Treasury, on the petition of Edmund Ellis, late of Lisburn, in the county of Antrim; praying His Majesty, in consideration of his sufferings and services, to grant him the several forfeited lands mentioned in a schedule annexed, amounting to about 140l. per ann.; they state that they were advised the lands were worth 189l. 15s. 1½d., but that, deducting the lands reported on in order to be passed to the Earl of Albemarle, to make up deficiences to him, and such as remained to be reported on for the Earl of Rochford, the net value would be 43l. 11s. 1½d. per ann. [The schedule not now with it.] 2 pages.
[? About June or July.]	94. Memorial of Henry, Earl of Romney, to the King, representing that there was a fee of 160l. per ann. settled by Act 22 Hen. VIII. on the Constable of Dovor Castle and Lord Warden of the Cinque Ports, which appointment the Earl held; that King Charles II. reserved so much out of the Crown revenues in the county of Kent, as would pay the fee, but the present King had granted the same to the Earl of Portland; praying that the said revenue might be restored. Accompanied by extracts from two Acts of Parliament relating thereto; with an opinion, signed Wm. Dobyns, that the yearly payment of 160l. remained charged on the fee farm rents, and might be recovered. Dated 21 June 1697. In this case the arguments by counsel who were heard before their Lordships are entered in the Minute Book, Vol. VIII., p. 81, 29 Dec. 1697. The entry commences:—“M^r Dobins for the Earl of Romney & M^r Dod for ye Earl of Portland, about y^e rents claymed by ye E. of Romney, com. Kantii, for paying his fee of 160^li p[er] ann. as Constable of Dovor Castle & Lord Warden; w^ch rents are granted to ye E. of Portland. The Act 32 H. 8 is read; it provides for ye paym^t of this 160^li a year out of augmentation revenues by the rec^r. Dobins saies there is but 17^li a year rent left since the grant to ye E. of Portland, and that this Act stands good; it encumbers ye revenue with this paym^t, w^ch cannot be impeached by ye grant.” The counsell did not desire their L^ps to decide the matter judicially, but that the King might be informed. 3 pages.