Minute Book: March 1672

Calendar of Treasury Books, Volume 3, 1669-1672. Originally published by His Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1908.

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Citation:

'Minute Book: March 1672', in Calendar of Treasury Books, Volume 3, 1669-1672, ed. William A Shaw( London, 1908), British History Online https://prod.british-history.ac.uk/cal-treasury-books/vol3/pp1040-1057 [accessed 24 November 2024].

'Minute Book: March 1672', in Calendar of Treasury Books, Volume 3, 1669-1672. Edited by William A Shaw( London, 1908), British History Online, accessed November 24, 2024, https://prod.british-history.ac.uk/cal-treasury-books/vol3/pp1040-1057.

"Minute Book: March 1672". Calendar of Treasury Books, Volume 3, 1669-1672. Ed. William A Shaw(London, 1908), , British History Online. Web. 24 November 2024. https://prod.british-history.ac.uk/cal-treasury-books/vol3/pp1040-1057.

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March 1672

March 1.
Friday.
Present: Lord Ashley, Treasurer of the Household.
Speak with John Forth about an account of how many alehouses he has in the counties he rents [the Excise of].
Sir Robert Atkins and Sir Lionell Jenkins called in. Ordered that Sir Robert Atkins have a copy of a letter from Sir Lionel Jenkins (about enforcing executors and administrators to bring in inventories) to consider and to return his opinion on to my Lords.
Sir Lionel Jenkins gives my Lords an account that the Ecclesiastical Courts cannot call in any inventory without a motion. My Lords therefore will cause a proctor to move the court constantly for the King. Send the note of this to Sir Robt. Atkins to have it prepared. (Out Letters General III. p. 89.)
My Lords appoint Tuesday morning next to hear the case concerning the debt between the King and Backwell [sic for Blackwell]. The Attorney General and such other of the King's Counsel [as can] are to attend [my Lords then] and also Sir R. Long, Sir C. Harbord and Mr. Sherwyn. The Earl of Dorset takes notice of the time without further notice.
Let the two hogsheads of wine and the two half barrells of herrings be delivered on payment of Customs and to be freed from any forfeiture. The goods are on board the "John," of Leith, Scotland, John Gillis, master.
Estoll's petition [read. Ordered] to have a year's salary. The order to be signed.
The docquet of the London Excise Farmers is to be signed when they have paid their money.
The two Smiths to attend my Lords on Tuesday morning. "I [Sir Ro. Howard] have given notice by one of them."
The Earl of Rochester's petition is to be heard on Tuesday.
Lord Townshend desires that he may not be called upon concerning his farm of the coals till such time as my Lords have proceeded upon the rest of the petty farms and then he will be willing to comply with the King [on condition of] being satisfied on the points of profits proportionable to what he now receives and that [the payment be] so settled as that he may not depend upon the Exchequer nor have any trouble or charge in the receiving of it. He leaves his sub-farmers to my Lords to consider. To all this my Lords were pleased to consent and [it is therefore ordered] to proceed accordingly.
Sorcell's petition to be produced when Lord Townsend certifies to my Lords what Acts of Parliament the taxes were grounded upon for which Sorcell, the High Constable, is in arrear and imprisoned.
Send to the Trustees of the Fee Farms to attend my Lords on Tuesday evening and bring in [a certificate of] all the rents that are contracted for and when the contracts were made and who have paid in their moneys and their year's rent. Sir Ro. Long is to attend then and to bring in [a note of] what has been paid in upon fee farms by money and orders into the Exchequer. Mr. Sherwin also to attend them.
Send to the Trustees for Fee Farms to make a return of all such small rents of the fee farms and others as have not yet been returned; also that my Lords, understanding that there are [particulars of] several rents returned lately by the Auditors to said Trustees, and now before said Trustees, which were not specified within the conveyances or grants whereby said Trustees were empowered to make sale, do therefore desire said Trustees to send in forthwith all such rents and all others that have been so returned by the Auditors. (Out Letters General III. p. 89.)
Mr. Lacy's business being signed, Sir Thomas Clifford instructs Sir Ro. Howard that the particulars of what Mr. Lacy is to do shall be annexed to the privy seal on parchment.
Mr. Phillip Howard's two petitions are referred to Sir C. Harbord.
On the petition of Mr. Lisle send to prohibit the digging of brick earth.
The business concerning decayed wines [is considered]. A warrant [ordered] to discharge the bonds according to the report.
Mr. Arderne and Sir Gilbert Gerrard are to attend my Lords on Tuesday morning next.
Claudius Dennis is to have a lease as desired.
[Treasury Minute Book IV. pp. 196–8.]
March 2.
Saturday.
Present: Lord Ashley, Treasurer of the Household.
[Ordered] that the Duke [of York] be moved that the press [gang] masters do not take [men] out of the merchant ships, no more men than may be fitly spared. In the margin: My Lords did move it this day [at the Privy Council].
[Ordered] that the Duke [of York] be moved that a stop be taken off the Bordeaux ships [so] that they [may] freely trade. In the margin: This was also moved.
[Ordered] that Mr. Mounteney be directed to pay 1,500l. to Prince Rupert for a quarter's salary.
[Ordered] that Sir Rob. Howard speak with Sir Ro. Long about reassigned orders to the value of 3,000l. for Prince Rupert. [To be] of the first [in course for payment].
On Tuesday morning to hear the matters concerning the two Phripps in custody. The Excise Commissioners and the Farmers of Excise of the Isle of Wight are to have notice to attend about those things for which they have complained against the said Phripps. (Out Letters General III. p. 90.)
The King's majesty [and the] Duke of York [come in.] "The Commissioners of the Navy called in. Referred to the private Minute Book."
An order to the Commissioners of the Customs that all ships for France be freely permitted to go [sail] and bonds taken free [notwithstanding the late order in Council for a general embargo], and that it is his Majesty's pleasure.
The Commissioners of the Navy to impress [imprest] 500l. towards the building of two ships at Harwich.
Sir John Bennet called in. Complains of Viscount Fanshawe's non-payment. Write to Viscount Fanshawe about it and acquaint him with the danger. The 500l. that he has paid is to be put into the next week's [paper of orders for payments out of the Exchequer] to be paid for Sir Jo. Bennet. Sir Robert Howard's letter written upon this minute is as follows: "This day Sir John Bennet made complaint before His Majesty and the Lords of the Treasury of moneys paid into your [the King's Remembrancer's] office and used by you [of which] only 500l. is acknowledged to have been paid [by you] into the Exchequer, upon which I am commanded to let you know that moneys deposited in a public place such as your Lordship's office, and not paid upon demand is of so ill a nature that were it complained of in court it must not only prejudice your reputation but extend as well to the very office itself. I am commanded therefore to give your Lordship this notice that by payment of the remaining money due to Sir John Bennet your Lordship may prevent all disadvantages that might happen to you. (Out Letters General III. p. 90.)
The King asks about Moat Park, which my Lords will take care for to satisfy in money or land.
The Earl of Anglesey to attend on Monday afternoon about Mrs. Langhorne's business.
[Treasury Minute Book IV. pp. 199–200.]
March 4.
Monday.
Present: Lord Ashley, Treasurer of the Household.
Sir Robert Howard to enquire of the full state of Cadwallater Jones's business, how the 500l. was satisfied and what the money was my Lords were out, for him to repay; and every particular.
The Duke of M[onmouth] (crossed through).
On Broxolm's petition my Lords are pleased to grant that he have liberty [of his person] for a time on good security to the serjeant to return the last day of next term or sooner if summoned.
Mr. Laurence at the end of every term is to bring in his account of his prosecution of [legal] business relating to the Treasury. (Out Letters General III. p. 91.)
The petition of Cornifis Comte d' Ulefeldt (praying a lease for 31 years in reversion of the lott and cope and barre master's place in the county of Derby) is referred to Sir C. Harbord to report whether it be in the Queen's jointure, and the nature of it, and what grants are now in being. (Out Letters General III. p. 91.)
Mr. Morris is called in. My Lords upon complaint of Mr. Nicholas Morris concerning a contract in one Prescott's name order that the Trustees of the Fee Farms and Mr. Lightfoot and Mr. Digby, his clerk, and the two or three messengers with the books of the contracts [for sales of said fee farms] attend at the Treasury on Wednesday afternoon. The Earl of Bath to have notice.
The Customs Farmers called in. Sir Robert Howard to go to Mr. Wren this evening that immediately the Duke of York's order may be effectually issued concerning prest men, that either they may be lent to bring up the ships or others provided to bring up vessels. Likewise for all ships to go free to any part of France or anywhere for wines without the Straits' mouth.
The Customs Commissioners deliver a paper: which is margined [by my Lords] and is to be set in order accordingly.
Lord Kingston to be heard on his own business on Friday afternoon.
Order to discharge John Maynard, he having submitted himself and begging pardon of my Lords and promising that the wharf shall be gravelled and the agreement performed as made with Mr. Hebden, the Collector of Colchester.
The Excise Commissioners called in, and deliver a paper which is margined [by my Lords] and to be set in order.
Mr. Ball to attend on Wednesday afternoon.
Mr. Bostock desires for Mr. George Wakefield to purchase 1,200l. in the city's 6,000l. per an. fee farms after the Queen.
Sir Roger Hill and his deputy philazer for the county of Devon are to attend my Lords on Friday afternoon to answer the complaints of William Barber, cursitor of Devon.
Send for Street about forging a cocquet. William Boucher to direct where to find him.
Ordered that William Banker be discharged from the custody of the Marshal of the King's Bench on security; being charged at the suit of Mr. Brewer, a Custom House officer, for 150l. and with process out of the Exchequer at the King's suit.
[Treasury Minute Book IV. pp. 200–2.]
March 5.
Tuesday.
Present: Lord Ashley, Treasurer of the Household.
On Mr. Skeltons petition, Sir Robert Howard is to attend the Duke of Buckingham, Master of the Horse, to know what inconveniencies it may be to have it granted.
Mr. Fanshaw's petition to be shewed when there is a full board.
The Duke of York brought in a paper concering a third rate ship built at Harwich by Capt. Deane, for payment of 400l. per month. Sir Thomas Osborne must have order to pay it accordingly. Put my Lords in mind of it.
Mr. Legg's petition about paling in the park at Holt is to be presented on Saturday when the King is here. In the margin: the Duke of York came about this. Wolsely to remember it.
Petition read from Ann Swynborne, widow of Richard Swinborne, late of the parish of Cockermouth, co. Cumberland, setting forth her husband's services and sufferings for the late King, she being left very poor with three children and praying relief and that she may have a small island called Vicar's Isle, lying at Keswick, in Cumberland, bestowed on her to build a house on. Referred to Sir C. Harbord on a reference from the King, who much compassionates her distressed condition. (Out Letters General III. p. 92.)
Report to be made [by my Lords to the Privy Council] upon Sprot's petition that the King has nothing to do with the debt and cannot remit it.
When the King comes on Saturday my Lords will move His Majesty to remit the moneys desired by Major Edmund Andros and the officers of the Barbados regiment, as in their petition.
Petition from Edmond (Edward) Royden (Roydon), son of Edward Roidon, deceased, concerning the stable keeper at St. Albans [sic for St. James's]. Referred to Sir C. Harbord. (Out Letters General III. p. 94.)
Chr. Hussey's petition is granted.
Petition from Mr. Castilian Morice, son of Col. John Morris, for a lease of some lands in the King's forest of Knaresborough and Pickering, co. Yorks. Referred to Sir C. Harbord. (Out Letters General III. p. 94.)
Petition read from Elizabeth Alexander, widow of John Alexander, his late Majesty's shoemaker, showing that her late husband obtained a privy seal for 1,100l. odd due to him for boots and shoes made for the late King, to be paid out of forfeitures upon leather: by virtue whereof she has received 30l. or 40l. per an. towards her maintenance in prison, where she has long lain for her said husband's debt, and praying a warrant to Sir Robt. Long so that she may receive the benefit of the said privy seal. Referred to Sir Robt. Long and Sir Ro. Howard to examine what privy seal there is herein and what warrants have been granted thereupon. (Out Letters General III. p. 92.)
Mr. Marriott and the two Auditors, Beale and Sir Edm. Sawyer, are to attend my Lords to-morrow afternoon concerning the account of moneys received [by said Marriot as Receiver] for Windsor, and the account to be passed. (Out Letters General III. p. 92.)
George Morice's petition is read. Enquire what the value of the place is.
Process to be stopped against Mr. Croane.
Mr. Spencer's petition to be done according to Sir C. Harbord's report.
The Earl of Marlborough's paper is to be offered to my Lords on Saturday next.
The Attorney General, Sir William Jones, the Earl of Dorset and his Counsel are called in about Blackwell's debt. Mr. Warner opens the case of Blackwell being a late accomptant in the usurping times, money found in his hands. The Auditors certify that Backwell [sic for Blackwell] was fully satisfied and the Barons [of the Exchequer] proceeded upon that. The debt should come from the Earl of Cleveland's heirs. Sir Thomas Clifford proposes [asks] what way there is for the King to recover. Mr. Warner said to move the Court. The Attorney General says they have often been moved. Sir Will Jones said that the Barons when they did proceed they were constituted by Act of Parliament and not as in court acted. The Attorney General says that there is no relief but by Act of Parliament since the former Act did make the Barons particularly delegates. The Treasurer of the Household asks whether there was any collusion or whether the heir has it. Mr. Warner confesses the heir entirely has it; on which the Treasurer of the Household says that the heirs of Lord Wentworth ought not to be torn in pieces nor would the Parliament be apt to do it.
John Garrill to attend on Friday and the two printed tickets of the Attorney General and Mr. Sherwin are to be then produced.
My Lords examined the business of the Wine Acts. Upon the question who were retailers Mr. Lawrence is ordered to attend the Attorney General and to proceed by way of information as he shall advise, for the first Act makes every man that sells or buys a retailer.
The [persons concerned in the] alnage business called in, the Duke of Richmond being present. James Smyth and John Smith, offenders, submit and desired to be discharged, alleging that Mr. Sawyer's advice moved them to it. [Ordered that] upon taking licence out of the Exchequer to compound for the seizures, and paying the officers' fees and charges, they be discharged on their petition.
Sir Gilbert Gerrard and Mr. Arden called in about the Bishopric of Durham. Sir Gilbert Gerrard to bring in a list of the several officers [such] as auditors and receivers, &c., employed in the bishopric, and to give his opinion what other officers may be necessary. Sir Gilbert Gerrard to bring Mr. Stapleton, the auditor, with him.
A letter to be written to the Commissioners of Accounts that my Lords did not receive their letter till the night before the date and that they will not send for any particular men's papers: [and] to ask [them] what papers they had out of the Exchequer: and that my Lords would desire to receive such remarks (crossed through) statements as they have [to offer] upon several accounts as may be useful to the King's service and all others. This letter to be sent to Mr. Arden.
On Mr. Ogilby's petition and warrant [ordered] to speak with him and to recall his warrant and that there should be a stop of it for that the number of Rheems [reams] should be either in royal or other paper but not all the warrant expresses to have the valuation of so many Rheems of royal paper in other paper whereby the Rheems may be five times more than is intended to be granted. (Crossed through.)
Sir Ro. Howard to speak with Mr. Croane and to appoint a short [near] day [for his case] to be heard. Mr. Crone to attend my Lords on Tuesday morning and the Commissioners of the Retrospect of the late Wine Act are to be summoned.
[Treasury Minute Book IV. pp. 203–6.]
March 5.
Tuesday.
At Sir Robert Long's this morning, Mr. Treasurer of the Household there.
The Navy to have a warrant for 100,000l.
Draw new warrants [so] that all may be brought to receive by new orders.
[Ibid p. 206.]
March 8.
Friday.
Present: Treasurer of the Household, Sir John Duncombe.
Put my Lords in mind every Saturday of Sir William Temple's business for his extraordinaries. See the minute of Nov. 7 last [supra p. 957].
Write the Customs Commissioners for the gloves sent by Lord Ambassador Montague to be delivered, paying the usual customs. See Mr. Rob. Nott's letter about it.
On Tuesday morning Mr. Orford's (Arpod's or Alport's) business about the clerks of the peace [is to be considered]. Send to the Attorney General.
Mr. Garrell (Garrill) called in about taking compensation for prosecution about making of farthings, and two acquittances being produced wherein he has received money without prosecution, my Lords being offended at his proceedings and thinking his proceedings oppressive, upon this opinion of my Lords the said Garrill has engaged he will receive no more money.
The two Phripps appear for abusing the officers of Excise in the Isle of Wight. Mr. Ailoffe, Counsel for the Farmers. Lord Ashley says it was suspicious that the fact being in October not acquainted till now. Mr. Bostock [says] the complaint was [made] the 25th of November: produces the affidavit. The affidavit says that Phryp demanded an acquittance before he paid the money, and being bid withdraw he and his brother fell upon the officer. Two certificates read in the behalf of the Phripps. Mr. Hues, Sub-Commissioner, examined, says Joseph Phripp came to pay his money and demanded an acquittance before he paid his money upon which Mr. Hues bid him withdraw and not disturb the office. Lord Ashley excepts against his demand of an acquittance in full. Hues says that the officer told them that he [Phripp] called them a company of rogues coming to abuse the country.
Sir Robt. Atkins to attend my Lords on Wednesday afternoon concerning the law duty.
There is 750l. due to Mrs. Langhorne since the Treasury Commission began. To propose to my Lords that she may be paid 500l.
The Earl of Bath, Mr. Morris and Mr. Lightfoot and his deputy and the Trustees of the Fee Farms are to attend my Lords on Tuesday morning about the complaint of Mr. Morris's petition.
Wednesday next after dinner [is appointed for the consideration of] exported beer. The Commissioners [and Farmers of Excise] are to attend then, being excused [attendance] on Monday, [my Lords] having no particular business [with them] then.
My Lords to be reminded to-morrow morning about the pensions of the Earl of Bath and the Earl of Suffolk.
The two Phripps called in again and the [Excise] Farmers of the Isle of Wight. Lord Ashley tells them they are both to blame and believes the Phripps struck first: on the other side thinks they [the said farmers] troubled the country, but excepts against the proceedings of the country [county] by actions of law without any appeal [first made] to my Lords in matters of Excise. The Justices of the Peace should have sent the complaints to my Lords. The Phripps are discharged and are to withdraw all their actions. In the margin: Abbott to speake to the serjeant.
On Thursday morning Mr. Porter and Mr. William Prettyman are to attend my Lords.
The [Deputy] Governor of Dover, Mr. Fenwick and Mr. Luckless are to attend my Lords on Tuesday next about the business in the Day Book.
[Treasury Minute Book IV. pp. 207-9.]
March 9.
Saturday.
Present: the King, Duke of York, Lord Ashley, Treasurer of the Household, Sir Jo. Duncombe.
The Earl of Anglesey moves that his accounts concerning the Navy [may be speedily proceeded upon and perfected for declaration] which my Lords agree to; the said Earl acknowledging that he has received them from the hands of the late Commissioners of Accounts at Brooke House. My Lords order Auditor Beale to proceed upon it. (Out Letters General III. p. 96.)
Upon Lord Arlington's letter by command of the King for my Lords to certify to His Majesty the state of the manor of Petersham and Ham, co. Surrey, and of the leases of them, my Lords refer it to Sir C. Harbord to make a speedy report. (Out Letters General III. p. 96.)
Warrant to be drawn upon Lindsey's privy seal which concerns Sir Rich. Ford as was said.
On Tuesday morning Mr. Slingsby and the Swedish gentleman are to attend about the copper.
Warrant for felling 200 trees in New Forest.
Lady Eliza. Delavel's business is proposed by the King. My Lords will enquire if her business be [comprehended] within the stop [of the Exchequer payments]. If not they will take care of it. In the margin: Floyd to remember this.
The two Mrs. Byrons' business is moved by the King. To have money next Saturday.
[Ibid. p. 210.]
March 11.
Monday.
Present: Lord Ashley, Treasurer of the Household, Sir John Duncombe.
Lord Ashley having desired that the Treasury Lords should be the umpire in the case of Sir John Bennet and Mr. George Dashwood . . . .
Sir William Bucknall to attend on Friday afternoon about the letters from Salisbury to Sir Stephen Fox and my Lords.
Upon the petition of George Strode and the report of the Customs Commissioners, my Lords, finding that there is no particular charge against him, and that he has been long an officer in the Customs, look upon him as fit to be employed upon any vacancy of such employment as he desires. (Out Letters General III. p. 97.)
A letter from my Lords to Sir Robert Holmes that they will intercede with the King that he shall have the 11 tunn free, but that my Lords do believe the officers have done their duty. By command of my Lords Sir Robert Howard is to write to tell the officers that [they] have done their duty.
The Customs Commissioners are called [and the following directions concerning Customs matters are made].
They deliver a paper which is margined and directed [upon] by my Lords.
The said Commissioners complain that they cannot discharge goods which Lord Ashley directs them to do, that are stopped under pretence of a seizure.
A paper delivered in dated the 4th inst., signed by Thomas Crosse and Tomlin, about several parcels of gloves and other goods. Referred to Sir Robt. Howard to order between [the parties concerned] the young man Mr. Robert Not having his goods and the officers having some satisfaction. In the margin. Done: and Mr. Not to pay the officers 10l.
The orders from the Secretaries of State [to the Customs] are to be sent to my Lords before [being] obeyed, if concerning anything relating to the Customs.
Mr. Hamilton's petition (for a lease for 21 years of a parcel of lands called Sedgwick and Chesworth Park, Sussex, in reversion of 20 years yet in lease) is referred to the Queen Mother's Trustees. (Out Letters General III. p. 96.)
The Hamburg ships to be immediately released. Prepare letters for the ports of Portsmouth, Plymouth and Dartmouth.
Lady Ashley called in. To put my Lords in mind on a Saturday concerning some money for her.
Refer the letter of Merionethshire to Mr. Sherwin, Mr. Web and Mr. Filingham, the agents for bringing in the arrears of the late assessments, [to report] whether this be all [the assessment arrears remaining] behind upon Merionethshire and [which is] due, and if so then to have it ordered to be paid in. (Out Letters General III. p. 97.)
Hierome (Jerome) Brown's petition [is ordered] to be done according as prayed.
Mr. John Glanvill to be a landwaiter on the next vacancy of any in the Western ports.
The King to be acquainted with Kelsey's docquet. In the margin: Floyd [to put it among the] papers for the King.
[Treasury Minute Book IV. pp. 211–13.]
March 12.
Tuesday.
Present: Lord Ashley, Sir John Duncombe.
The two letters from Bristol concerning the encouragement given by the Irish Customs Farmers in all the ports of Ireland for Plantation ships to unlade [in Irish ports before calling at English ports] contrary to the Act of Parliament in that behalf is to be sent to the said Irish Farmers. Write them that my Lords are unsatisfied herein and desire them to attend at the Treasury on Friday with their answer thereto. (Out Letters General III. p. 99.)
Enquire from Sir Rob. Long what orders on the loans on the fee farms are paid. Sir Rob. Long to attend my Lords on Friday afternoon with the list and account of the fee farm orders transferred.
An order [is made] to stop process against those that should pay Chimney money [in all cases] where the return is that no distress is to be had.
Write the Commissioners of the subsidy for Lancashire not to pay any more money to Mr. Christopher Bannister till further order from my Lords.
"To write to the privy seal by my Lords' command that the business of the Trust surrender by Sir Tho. Trevor is immediately for the King and therefore [Trevor] not to pay [any fees thereon]."
Summon Mr. Dickson to attend my Lords on Monday afternoon next, he having brought an action against one of the collectors of the Hearthmoney in Surrey for taking a distress in the house of one Mr. Serle, a brewer, upon pretence that the goods so distrained were not Serle's but Dickson's. (Out Letters General III. p. 99.)
Write Mr. Marriott and Auditors Beale and Sir Edmd. Sawyer to attend my Lords to-morrow afternoon about the accounts of said Marriott as receiver of Windsor. (Ibid. p. 97.)
A letter to be drawn to the Trustees [for sale of Fee Farms] that Sir John Banks having contracted for several fee farm rents and having orders near in course of payment they should reserve the several rents by him contracted for till further order.
Write Sir W. Doyly, senr., to proceed upon his accounts as Receiver of the Eleven Months' tax for London and Middlesex, or else his bonds will be put in suit, my Lords finding that he has not so far advanced in the making up said accounts as they expected. (Out Letters General III. p. 98.) Also request him to forthwith send to the King's Remembrancer all the bonds given by the Receivers of the last Poll.
A copy of Mr. Taylor's letter to be sent to the Alum Farmers.
The Attorney General called in, says there is a manual for the Customs and a manual for the Hearth money and moves to have an able person to make such another manual for the laws of Excise with an index.
On Tuesday morning the business of the Clerks of the Peace is to be heard concerning their demands for their service alleged to be done in connection with the revenue of Hearthmoney. The Attorney General and Col. Webb are to attend. Write Viscount Fanshawe, the King's Remembrancer, to bring down two or three rolls of the Hearthmoney (to evidence the service alleged) such as Mr. Arpod (Alport) one of the said clerks shall desire. (Out Letters General III. pp. 98, 99.)
[Treasury Minute Book IV. pp. 213-5.]
March 14.
Thursday.
Present: Sir John Duncombe.
Read [the Minute Book] to enquire what has formerly been done by this board on the complaint of one Philpott about Finckley forest concerning the cutting of woods there, now again complained of by one Golding.
Warrant for the delivery of certain goods, in a paper specified, to the French ambassador's order on payment of custom, [said goods being] in the "Henrietta" yacht. See the paper and Lord Arlington's letter signifying the King's pleasure.
Send to Sir Thomas Clarges to attend on Monday next concerning a complaint made against one Blake for cutting trees in Finckley Forest.
[Ibid. p. 215.]
March 15.
Friday.
Present: Lord Ashley. Treasurer of the Household, Sir J. Duncomb.
The King to be moved to-morrow in the business of Saltash.
Send for Crosse and Tomlins to attend my Lords on Monday next to answer why they do not obey my Lords' directions concerning delivering the gloves to Mr. Nott.
Let Mr. Maynard have an order reassigned for payment of 500l. out of the farm rents in satisfaction of 500l. due to Porter and in part of the 12,000l. of the money to be charged on the arrear of the farm of the Customs. Let care be forthwith taken herein. Mr. Maynard's order is in Porter's name.
Examine the Earl of Sunderland's privy seal and that of Mr. Coventry and see how they agree and if Mr. Coventry have such advance money [of his ambassadorial ordinary] as the Earl of Sunderland desires. See what warrants have been given to Mr. Coventry for advance money in pursuance of the privy seal.
Mr. Banfeild has been here and has given my Lords satisfaction concerning the complaint made against him by the Excise Farmers.
An officer to go to the Earl of Holland with the goods and the said Earl is to pay duty for so much as [he] ought.
Warrant for a seal to be made for Sir Francis Goodriche [Goodricke] as Chancellor of the County Palatine of Durham.
My Lords upon hearing the matter of allowing money back for beer exported as merchandise think fit to make no allowance but that they [the exporters] pay for the three barrels above the 20 barrels allowed on the gauge if they export the same. Refer the whole matter of the beer exported to the Attorney General for him to report thereon.
[Ibid. p. 216.]
March 16.
Saturday.
On Monday afternoon to consider in what way the Militia money is to be brought in.
The Earl of Rochester's petition is to be considered on Monday.
Write Sir R. Long not to receive any assignments on the fee farms but by my Lords' orders, except for payments upon [purchase money half cash] half orders.
Send to Sir William Bucknall to attend my Lords on Monday afternoon about the payment of the 18,000l. for payment of Spragg's fleet.
To remind the King next Saturday of Lady Portland.
Lady Ashley to be remembered next Saturday.
Warrant for 6,000l. for the Works, for the ordinary of the office.
Send forthwith a letter to the Customs Commissioners to give order for the discharge of all Hamburghers [ships belonging to the town of Hamburg brought in by any of his Majesty's ships.]
Send to Sir William Bucknall to know whether all the money due from him [and his partners] for the last [Excise farm] for London be ready [to be paid in].
Write Sir Tho. Osborne to imprest to Col. Osborne 5,000l. for sick and wounded men.
Send to Mr. Ball and then bring the Prince's [Rupert's] letter.
For the future my Lords to meet here on Tuesdays in the afternoon and on Fridays in the morning before the Privy Council sits.
[Treasury Minute Book IV. p. 217.]
March 18.
Monday.
Present: Lord Ashley, Treasurer of the Household, Sir John Duncombe.
Upon Mr. Lisle's and Mr. Reeves' petition Mr. Darnall appears about cutting trees in the manor of Shaw, near Windsor. As to cutting of wood says he cut no more than what was for gate-boot and plow-boot. As to digging earth he says he let it to another man and had covenants to save him harmless.
Warrant to be drawn on Carter's order of Council for 300l.
Warrant for 100l. for Partridge and Heydon upon their order of Council.
My Lords have treated with Sir Thomas Clarges about Mote Park which was valued by the Duke of Albemarle at 300l. a year, but he values it at 400l. My Lords proposed fee farm rents [in exchange].
[Memorandum.] That in discourse concerning Finkly forest about the waste of cutting of timber Sir Thomas Clarges alleged that what was timber when the grant was [made] was comprehended [in the grant] but if the timber was grown timber afterwards they might cut it. But when my Lords asked whether he would stand by this as his opinion he then waived it and said the Surveyor General was of that opinion. My Lords order that the inquisition of this [abuse] be added to the Commission of [enquiry into the like abuses in] Hampshire, and that other names be presented to my Lords of persons living near it [Finkly Forest, i.e. to serve as such commissioners]. In the mean time an order to stop cutting any more timber trees [there].
The 100l. for Mr. Cranfield is to be allowed to the [Deputy] Governor of Dover.
Likewise 350l. to be allowed for the salary of Sir Charles Wheeler, to be paid by Stroud, [Deputy] Governor of Dover, out of the 4½ per cent. [duty in the Barbados].
Sir Thomas Clarges will speak with the Duke of Albemarle.
Send to the Auditor of the Imprest [sic for, of the Exchequer Court], Phelips, to know what rents are reserved [from sale with the rest of the fee farms now offering for sale] for the maintenance of Dover and other castles.
Sir John Bennett called in. Desires to proceed in his purchase to complete the 30,000 by having tallies of 8,000l.: and Sir John Bennet to deposit 800l. in Sir George Downing's hands, which is for securing the dispute between Mr. George Dashwood and Sir John Bennet. A warrant to be drawn immediately that Mr. George Dashwood deliver up or cause to be delivered up tallies of 8,000l. to Sir John Bennet by Mr. Aram, who is to carry the warrant, and if Mr. Dashwood denies or delays doing it my Lords will then immediately proceed to vacate the tallies in the Exchequer, my Lords having been tender to do anything judicially, but Bennett having deposited 800l. in the hands of one of the Tellers of the Exchequer, whereby there can be no prejudice to the business in question.
Strelly to continue collector till further order.
Warrant for the Earl of Sunderland for three months' entertainment.
Ellesden to repair to the Customs Commissioners with his information, and upon the return [report] of the Commissioners my Lords will put him [as] the officer at Looe in Cornwall.
Alderman Backwell moved about interest. He was answered that the whole debt should be speedily stated [so] that every man might proceed equally.
Warrant for a privy seal for Sir Robt. Viner for plate [delivered into the Jewel Office] according to the certificate of Sir G. Talbot.
Send a list of such moneys as lie in the outports to the Commissioners of the Navy to know what use they can make of them by any way [as employing them for wages or by] returns; and that any money so used shall be applied to their accounts.
Mr. Lawrence to go to the Attorney General with suits (crossed through).
A privy seal for the 5,000l. advanced for Madame by Sir Rob. Viner and Alderman Backwell.
Mr. Dickenson that was to have been here to-day is to attend my Lords to-morrow.
Send to the Trustees [for Fee Farms] to send my Lords a particular of the 6,000l. per an. taken out of the fee farm rents for the securing the 60,000l. to the city. (Out Letters General III. p. 101.)
Col. Whitley's request is granted.
The Customs Commissioners delivered in a paper to be put in order: which was margined [by my Lords with their directions thereon].
[Treasury Minute Book IV. p. 218–20.]
March 20.
Wednesday.
Present: Lord Ashley, Treasurer of the Household, Sir John Duncombe.
Sir John Bennet and Mr. George Dashwood [called in]. Sir John Bennet [is ordered] to deposit 1,050l. in the hands of Sir John James, Major Huntingdon and Capt. Kingdome, there to be till the dispute between him and Mr. George Dashwood be ended, or any dispute to be determined in equity, or the time [of determination of said deposit] to be affixed by my Lords.
Send to the Duke of Richmond to send in his order to be entered for additional plate.
The business concerning the ship "Desert" is to be heard on Monday. Mr. Prowse is to attend my Lords then and John Bawdon and Thomas Knights, merchants of London, are to be summoned.
Order for Sir Robt. Atkins' son, Sir Robert Atkins, to be receiver general [of the duties arising from the imposition on Law proceedings] from May 1 next. Mr. Fabian Phelips to be his deputy, as Sir Robert Atkins, jun., was to his father.
Mr. Orport's [Alport's] business is considered about the Clerks of the Peace [and their demand of remuneration for work in connexion with the Hearthmoney revenue.] Mr. Offley, counsel [is heard], about the returns of the Hearthmoney. Mr. Alport avers that there was a return [of rolls of the Hearthmoney] during the farm. Mr. Fanshaw, [who is] present, affirms that he ordered his clerk to attend Mr. Alport a whole day, and can find none [no such return], but it was confessed there was a return for part of Essex about [? Barstable] and that was all. So that there was nothing due for those years.
In answer to the letter from Abergavenny in Monmouthshire write that the Commissioners put the Act in execution.
My Lords are of opinion that when it [the revenue of Hearthmoney during the half year ended 1666, Lady Day], was in the King's hands the clerks of the peace, either being ready to do their duty or [actually] doing of it, ought to have their penny in the £. But [as] to [the] time [when the Hearthmoney revenue was in the hands] of the farmers my Lords meddle not, but leave it to law.
Sir Robert Long to attend on Friday morning about Sir John Banks's business.
The brewers to send in the names of so many servants as each brewer must have, in order for protection [to be given for such servant against the press gang].
The money that Mr. Ball is to pay in is in Mr. Backwell's and Mr. Meynell's hands. My Lords, therefore, will consider it when they [those two bankers] come for interest or when they have any orders to receive out of the subsidies or [out of] any other Act of Parliament. Send to Sir R. Long to know when they have any such orders.
[Robert] Corner, an officer of the Hearthmoney, complains against Mr. Serle for bringing a suit against him. Dikenson (Dixon) says he offered to pay him for four chimneys and the officer demanded for five. My Lords give out the caution that they should manage the revenue with tenderness. Mr. Dikenson, son-in-law to Mr. Serle, says that the officer was offered goods to distrain but he would take goods that were there belonging to a stranger. Mr. Dikenson after [wards] came to Lambeth and, desiring to have the goods and pay the duty, the officer denied it without he had all his fees, upon which Mr. Dickenson said he would take his course, and so brought his action. My Lords order that the charges be remitted on all sides and the distress carried home where they were taken and the duty only to be paid.
On the petition from Guernsey, Auditor Beale is to attend on Tuesday afternoon.
Sir Robt. Atkins moves that for the inventories where the will has been proved [the regulation be laid down that] the inventories to be brought in in such a time. A paper concerning this is delivered in by him. [He also delivers] another paper concerning copies in Chancery. An order from my Lords to recommend it to the Lord Keeper to make it an order in Chancery. [He also delivers in] a third paper about affidavits. [Ordered] to be drawn into an order as amended.
Order for payment of the charges of the privy seal to authorise Sir Thomas Trevor to convey the fee farm rents entrusted in him.
[Treasury Minute Book IV. pp. 221–4.]
March 22.
Friday.
Present: Treasurer of the Household, Sir John Duncombe.
Draw a letter for Hill upon his petition that he may have his pension paid.
Widow Alexander to receive her usual benefit and the restraint to be taken off upon what respects her payment by [the moiety of seizures of] leather.
Sir Symon Deg to have notice of Churche's petition. The business to be proceeded upon for Church.
My Lords will not meet on Monday next and the business of that day is to be appointed for Tuesday.
[Ibid. p. 225.]
March 23.
Saturday morning.
Present: Treasurer of the Household, Sir John Duncombe.
Ordered that Sir Richard Temple have a warrant drawn for him to be one of the Commissioners of the Customs. His salary to commence from Xmas last.
Lord Arlington's petition to be read on Tuesday next.
Let Sir Rob. Long have directions that the Earl of Sandwich's order charged on the Duchy of Cornwall, and drawn since the stop [of the Exchequer], be paid in course.
[Ibid. p. 226.]
1671.
[Sic, erratum for 1672]
March 28. Thursday.
Mr. Prettyman, Mr. Porter and Mr. Fenn are to attend my Lords to-morrow morning at eight o'clock.
Sir Robert Howard to attend his Royal Highness [the Duke of York] for an order for all press [gang] masters to obey such orders and instructions as the Treasury Lords shall make for protecting brewers' servants which other ways may cause a great prejudice to his Majesty's revenue of Excise.
[Ibid. pp. 225, 226.]
March 29.
Friday.
Present: Lord Ashley, Treasurer of the Household, Sir John Duncombe.
The Earl of Sandwich and Auditor Beale and other auditors are called in about the accompts of the Great Wardrobe.
The Attorney and Solicitor General to attend on Monday in the afternoon about exported beer.
Upon the [abovesaid Wardrobe] account there was inserted sums of money that Mr. Townsend had laid out for building, which my Lords excepted against. [Ordered] that Mr. Townsend's accounts be made perfect by his bringing vouchers for such payments as he demands credit for. In the meantime that all troubles and process be stopped against the Earl of Sandwich till further order. Send [word to this effect] to Viscount Fanshawe.
Remember on Monday that Mr. Mounteney have orders to pay moneys for 1,500l., [for] Prince Rupert's [pension] quarter.
[Ordered] that Sir Ro. Howard do acquaint Sir Robt. Long that the Earl of Sandwich's order should be paid and [that it] was not concerned in the [Exchequer] stop.
Lord Willoughby called in about instructions for the Barbados.
Lord Belasyse moves for his salary for his government of Hull. My Lords will pay half a year to him. Warrant ordered.
Upon Francis Osbaston's representation the King's right is to be maintained.
Lord Willoughby to have a copy of such things as are the determination of the King and Council concerning the Barbados: upon the reading of which said Lord is to come on Monday afternoon next to give his opinion how moneys may be raised by a better way than the 4½ per cent.
Sir Rob. Howard to speak with Sir Rob. Holms that the town of Southampton may buy their own fee farm and he [to] have as much rents set out [allotted to him out of Crown revenues to an equivalent amount as being part of the county revenue devoted to meet the fixed charges of the forts, &c., of the Isle of Wight]. My Lords desire this.
Sir Rob. Long to register the orders delivered to Sir R. Howard by Sir T. Littleton, notwithstanding the former orders of my Lords that assigned orders should not be registered.
The Customs Commissioners called in and deliver four papers. Floyd [to see to] one [of them and] Aram [to the other] three.
Sir Robert Howard to attend the Duke [of York] with Col. Romsey's letter to hasten the convoy or guard. Plymouth and the Western ports also desire two ships to cruise in the mouth of the channel.
A warrant dormant for the Earl of Dover for half a year's creation money and [for it] so to be paid [half yearly] as it grows due [in future].
Order to the Customs Commissioners to pay the officers of the outports.
Mr. Haysham (Heysham) to be sent as his Majesty's collector [in the port] of Bridgwater, with 50l. per an. salary.
Mr. Tannat (Tannet) to be collector at Looe, with 30l. per an. salary.
Write Sir T. Littleton and Sir D. Gawden to know how White performs [his agreement] about his brewing [gratis for the Navy as a means of liquidating his debt as receiver for co. Oxford]: and to certify what quantities of beer White has accordingly delivered. (Out Letters General III. p. 103.)
Biggs being dead, Samuel Weal, the surveyor of Fowey, is to be collector.
The representation of Mr. Lycott is to be entered and my Lords' approbation [thereof] in the Minute Book.
Mr. Holder's account is brought in. My Lords will consider it and Mr. Holder. The account to be entered in my [Sir Robert Howard's] private Minute Book.
Give Lord Ashley an account of what concerns Dorsetshire out of the account of the counties for the Militia money sent in by the Commissioners of Accounts.
The Earl of Carlisle [called in]. A grant to him during pleasure of the forest of Teesdale, co. Durham.
Enquire whether Mr. Sherwin has done anything in the business about sale of wood in the King's forests. See the minute.
Mr. Merriott and Auditor Beale [called in] about the accounts of Windsor. His imprest account excepted against (struck through) [is] declared.
Upon Sir Ste. Fox's paper an additional security [is ordered to be made] by a new privy seal for the security of the 4,709l. 16s. 5d. out of the 6,000l. per an. allotted [out of the fee farms] for the city [as security for the 60,000l. loan].
Sir Stephen Fox is to attend my Lords on Tuesday afternoon about his interest account.
Lord Arlington's petition is to be presented to-morrow for the King's pleasure.
Sir Robert Holms's petition read, on a reference from the King, being for a lease of some parcels of ground in the Tilt Yard and Walsingham Garden. Referred to Sir C. Harbord to make a speedy report. (Out Letters General III. p. 105.)
The records [rolls of the Hearthmoney and subsidy, &c. are ordered] to remain with the [King's] Remembrancer, but the office to appoint an attendant for the Agents of the Hearthmoney to [enable them] to examine or use any rolls.
Mr. Fanshawe's petition to be delivered on Monday.
Draw a letter for Sir John Duncombe to sign to the town of Yarmouth that they have raised the Custom House 6l. per an.
Mr. Sawyer [Sayer], the cook, is to be remembered to-morrow for [insertion in] the Saturday's bill [of payments to be made.]
Auditor Aldworth to be chief auditor of [the Exchequer Court] auditors. Aram to give him notice.
Mr. Stapleton and Sir Gilbert Gerrard will attend my Lords on Monday.
Send to Capt. Barron, clerk of the signet, [sic ? for a clerk of the privy seal] to attend my Lords on Monday afternoon about delivery of a privy seal for payment of Custom officers' salaries.
[Treasury Minute Book IV. pp. 227–231.]
March 30.
Saturday.
Present: The King, Duke of York, Duke of Buckingham, Earl of Lauderdale, Lord Arlington, Lord Ashley, Treasurer of the Household, Sir John Duncombe.
The officers of the Navy called in. The Duke of York moves about discharging ships. Sir Tho. Osborne says that the "Rupert" and another ship will come to 16,000l. The King hopes of the prizes there will be money. The Earl of Lauderdale says the prizes will be delayed. The Treasurer of the Household says they may pay off the ships with 16,000l., which Sir Thomas Osborne agrees to [viz. to pay it out of orders or funds in his hands assigned to him for other uses] and my Lords will supply it again [make it good on the head originally designed.] Sir Thomas Osborne acknowledges that since the 18th of December [last] he has always had a plentiful cash, always above 27,000l. in his hands.
Send to Mr. Stephens to go to the Exchequer to receive 5,000l. for sick and wounded men. (In the margin: Sir Thomas Osborne had notice to-day.)
Mr. Slingsby to have a warrant to receive the coinage money as it comes in except so much as shall satisfy Lady Villers and the salary of the Roteires [Roetiers, gravers to the Mint].
The Duke [of York] moves about the reward money to officers [&c. of the Navy], which is agreed to be done by the privy seal of [granted to] the Treasurer of the Navy.
Alderman Backwell to attend on Monday afternoon about his account of the Portugal money.
A paper is given in by the Duke of York about Tangier, viz. about supplying it, which was answered by the Treasurer of the Household that the constant payments weekly must be managed by Mr. Pepys towards . . .
The delay in condemning prizes being moved, the Judge of the Admiralty is to be sent for to be at the Committee of the Foreign Affairs at four o'clock in the afternoon at Lord Arlington's.
By order of my Lords these words were added in the docquet of Thomas Howard, Esq.: "and notwithstanding a privy seal for applying the moneys arising for [from] the twenty next baronets to the use of the Wardrobe yet this is to pass."
Giles Litcott, Controller General of the accounts of his Majesty's Customs, being by his patent obliged immediately after the expiration of every six months, viz. at Lady Day and Michaelmas, to deliver to the Auditor of the Imprest a fair and just account in writing of the debit of what every collector oweth in money, which is to be a charge to the Receiver General [of the Customs], who is to be accomptable for so much as he shall actually have received, and to put the rest in super upon each collector according to what he oweth: the said Controller at this Lady Day, 1672, finds several of the collectors to be in arrears to his Majesty, which arrears they allege that they are ready to remit [to London] to the Receiver General if they could meet with good bills, and in want thereof they offer to pay down the said arrears in the respective ports where they collect to whomsoever the Customs Commissioners shall direct, the Controller therefore prays direction whether he shall nevertheless forthwith give in the collectors' charge to the Auditors of the Imprest, that thereupon said collectors may be super'd, or respite it till Michaelmas next: Mr. Auditor Beale declaring that they cannot make up an account of the Customs in the Exchequer till at least three months after every Michaelmas: and in case it be thought convenient to defer giving in the said charge till Michaelmas whether such delay be not a forfeiture of said Controller's patent. In the margin: [Ordered] to be given in at Michaelmas and Mr. Litcott to have no prejudice for not doing it sooner.
[Treasury Minute Book IV. pp. 231–3.]