|
| 1 Aug. |
1. Report of Mr Thomas Hewett to the Lords of the Treasury, on the value of Knowlegrove, Fangrove, Stubbridge Coppice, and other things joined with them, granted to George Sayer, Esq., by the late Queen Catherine, the two former being liable to a rent of 9l. 7s. per ann., and Stubbridge, &c. liable to a rent of 10l. 13s. 4d. per ann., payable to the Crown. Sets out the acreage, &c. 1 August 1716. 2 pages.
|
[? About
2 Aug.] |
2. Petition of Wm Dalmer, Esq., Richard Benson, and Fisher Holyoake, gent., to the Lords of the Treasury. Petitioners were sureties to the Crown for John Andrews, Esq., late Receiver-General of the Land Taxes for 1707, 1708, and 1709, in the co. of Warwick, and city of Coventry. On the death of Andrews, received the remainder of the tax and cleared his debt, being above 2,000l. out of pocket. 887l. 17s. 7¼d. are due to them for strong guards, &c. in bringing the money to the Exchequer. Pray that the latter sum may be ordered.
Also three states of the account signed by “Tho. Jett, auditor, ijd August 1716.”
Minuted:—“Read 7th Augst 1716. A representac[i]on wilbe made in next session of those that comply wth the late Act by paymt of their whole arrear before Micħs 1716, to the end a power may be obteyned to satisfie their allowances out of publique money.” 4½ pages.
|
| 6 Aug. |
3. John, Bishop of London, to Mr Lowndes. Encloses copy of Privy Seal as to the salary first granted by King William, and continued by Queen Anne, of 50l. a year to a Protestant minister at Philadelphia in Pennsylvania, and 30l. to a schoolmaster there, the payment of which continued untill the demise of her Majesty. The necessities of that infant church are such as still to need the like relief; prays that the salaries may be continued. Fulham, 6 Aug. 1716.
The copy named. 4 pages.
|
| 6 Aug. |
4. Memorial of the same to the King, with the same prayer.
Minuted:—“6 Aug. 1716. Renew ye P.S.” 1 page.
|
[? About
6 Aug.] |
5. Memorial of Samuel Muller, of London, merchant, to the King. By virtue of a power granted to him by the “Lords of the laudable Canton of Berne,” lays the original papers sent by that Canton before his Majesty, together with a translation relating to the sum of 3,754l. 9s. 8d. sterling, due to that Canton. Requests the necessary orders to be given to satisfy that demand.
Minuted:—“6th August 1716. Read. Speak to Mr Stanyan abt this.” “7th August 1716. My Lords find this matter has been determined some years ago and cannot enter upon consideration of it again.” 18½ pages.
|
| 6 Aug. |
6. Memorial of Sir Roger Mostyn, Bart., late one of the Four Tellers of the Exchequer, to the Lords of the Treasury. On 26 June last, the remains of cash in his office, amounting to 165,330l. 14s. 9d. was transferred to the Hon. Richard Hampden, Esq., now one of the Tellers. Prays that a warrant for his bonds for his 7,000l. security may be directed to the King's Remembrancer in order that the bonds may be cancelled. Aug. 6, 1716.
Three other papers relating to his affairs. 5 pages.
|
| 16 Aug. |
7. Comrs of Revenue, Ireland, to the Lords of the Treasury. Have managed the duties of Alnage to the best advantage. The duty has extremely fallen in Ireland since the Act to prohibit the export of woollen manufactures, and is sunk so low that if put into an officer's care it would be a loss to the revenue. Judged it most prudent to give public notice in all the market towns in the kingdom, resolving to close with the best bidder in each province or county respectively. Custom House, Dublin, 16 Aug. 1716.
Minuted:—“28th August 1716. Read. My Lords are of opinion that they should take this duty into their own care & direction for some time. Letter writ.” 1 page.
|
[? About
17 Aug.] |
8. Report of Francis Nicholson to the Lords of the Treasury, on the petition of Capt. John Bartlett. Certifies that in March 1708 the petitioner served at New York as lieutenant and adjutant under his command in the intended expedition to Canada. For his fatigues and hardships was recommended to the Secretary-at-War, and had a company given him in Col. Whiteing's regiment, in which he served at the reduction of Port Royal. For his good behaviour there refers to his certificate. As to his being ordered out with a party and engaging with the French and Indians, being shot with a musket ball, by which he lost the use of his arm, and being likewise taken prisoner and barbarously used by them, his paying 50l. for his ransom, and other losses, amounting to 40l. more, it was made fully to appear to General Hill and to himself at Boston. Is satisfied of the barbarity of the French and Indians, and of the truth of the allegations. Recommends him to be reimbursed for his ransom and other losses.
Minuted:—“Read 17 Aug. 1716. Prepare a S.M. for 100li for his ransom and other losses.”
The petition referred to and copy of a certificate. 3 pages.
|
| 17 Aug. |
9. “A list of the several persons who made the late loan of fifty thousand pounds on credit of the money arising by the sale of tin, and the sums by them respectively lent thereupon.” Exchequer, 17 Aug. 1716. 1½ pages.
|
| 17 Aug. |
10. Benjamin Bedford to the Lords of the Treasury. His Majesty signed a warrant almost a year since for payment of rent due for the house and furniture still possessed by the Muscovite Minister. Has been ever since petitioning their Lps respecting the danger he was in for want of the same. Unless paid in a few days will be ejected by his landlord, which will be 1,000l. damage to him, and a great dishonour to the Government. Intreats the payment of at least 314l. 5s., the remainder of the warrant, or must apply to the Ambassador himself rather than be ruined. 17 Aug. 1716.
Minuted:—“17th August 1716. Read. Pay the remainder of the warrt out of the Qs arrears, as likewise Mrs Bridges' arrears in the same warrt.”
There is also his petition of July 15, 1716. 2 pages.
|
[? About
20 Aug.] |
11. Memorial of Thomas Crisp, Esq., High Sheriff of Lancaster, to the Lords of the Treasury. A commission to try the rebels in Lancashire on 11th of January, at Liverpool, having been issued, a great number of jurors were immediately summoned, and other preparations were made, as well as gaols prepared for the prisoners. The sheriffs, under-sheriffs, &c. attended for near five weeks, and since caused 34 of the rebels to be executed at several places in the county. Asks payment of the account of the expenses thereof.
Minuted:—“20th August 1716. Mr Cracherode to examine this bill and make a report to their Lordships.” 1 page.
|
| 23 Aug. |
12. Comrs of Excise (Scotland) to the Lords [of the Treasury]. Soon after the receipt of their last commission sent a letter to all their collectors of duties upon houses, requiring them to send copies of their assessments, and to wait upon the justices at the next General Quarter Sessions to enquire whether the assessments were duly returned by the assessors. Are informed that the justices have not met and appointed assessors yearly as required by law. Warrants for the appointment of surveyors of the above duties have not been renewed since the demise of her Majesty. Propose that new warrants may be sent down for the persons named. Most of the maltsters in Scotland continue to deny the officers entrance into their malthouses, and all refuse payment of their duty. All the justices of peace throughout Scotland refuse to hear any informations laid before them on account of the malt duty. In several shires they refuse to meet and act on account of the Excise or any other the new duties, some alleging there are no new commissions of the peace empowering them to act, which is a very great loss to the Revenue. Many frauds are committed by the persons chargeable with the duty, and many of them die and others break, without leaving sufficient effects to satisfy their arrears. Excise Office, Edinburgh, 23 Aug. 1716. 2 pages.
|
[? About
24 Aug.] |
13. Memorial of Samuel Edwin, Esq., Usher of the Exchequer, to the Lords of the Treasury, laying before them “the circumstances of his affairs,” relating more particularly to his right to serve the office of Usher, and to the “ancient established prizes of his office.” To this place has ever belonged the right of furnishing the respective offices of the Exchequer with all necessaries, as appears by an extract from the Black Book written in the reign of Henry the Second. His right to serve the Lottery Offices is called in question. Hopes their Lordships will not deprive him of that right which he and his predecessors have ever enjoyed.
Minuted:—“Lect. 24 Aug. 1716.”
In the Minute Book, Vol. 21, p. 22, 24 Aug. 1716, is:—“My Lords, on hearing Mr Edwyn, and reading the several reports, warrants, and papers now before them relating to his Liberate and the several Lottery Offices which were discharged therefrom, their Lordships do order that the said warrant discharging the said offices be superseded, and that the auditors do rate the Liberates as usual, not only for those Lottery Offices heretofore discharged, but also for all other the offices now served by the Usher of the Receipt, and upon their being signed and allowed by the Chancellor, in manner accustomed, to draw orders for paying of the amount of the said Liberates termly or quarterly as they used to be, and the Auditor is to cause an account to be stated of the particular species and the value delivered to every office within the respective times of each Liberate so unpaid, that their Lordships may consider how to restrain the deliverys for the future to such quantitys as are absolutely necessary.”
Also copy of a report of the Lottery Commissioners in corroboration of the memorial. 4 pages.
|
[? About
26 Aug.] |
14. Abstract of the cases of Col. Thomas Maccarty and Captain Matthew Coudall, from the reports of Mr Gwyn, when Secretaryat-War, and Mr Pulteney, as also from their examinations before a Committee of Council, 16th Decr 1713. Mr Gwyn reported that the pretensions of the former were to 277l. 15s. as due to him, and 50l. already received. Mr Pulteney is of opinion that he had made them out, and that they were an equivalent for the post he quitted in the French service. Captain Coudall was a Protestant, who also quitted the French service. 123l. were due to him, besides the 36l. already paid to him.
Minuted:—“26 Augt 1716. 100li a p~s in full of their pretenc[i]ons.” 2 pages.
|
| Aug. 27. |
15. P. Methuen to the Lds of the Treasury. Sends the memorial of Captain Walter Lockhart. His Royal Highness's pleasure was that they report upon it. Whitehall, 27 Aug. 1716.
The memorial named. Capt. Walter Lockhart, was Intendant of Invalides in North Britain. Before the Revolution, was imprisoned, fined, and obliged to leave Scotland and live abroad several years, part whereof he carried arms under the Duke of “Brandyburg.” Joined the Prince of Orange on his landing in England in 1688, and returning to Scotland, at his own expense levied a troop of dragoons and subsisted the same for several months. King William bestowed on him the office of Intendant of Invalides, memorialist having given a considerable sum to Col. Wisehart to retire. The commission was renewed by Queen Anne. On the Union, the office was left out of the Military List, but the Queen being inclined that no private person should lose by the Union (which was designed for the general happiness of the two kingdoms), placed this and other military offices on the contingent list, and the Captain received his pay from thence to 22 Dec. 1710, since which he received no pay though he exercised the office. Prays payment of what is due, and for the renewal of the Commission.
“In Sir James Stewart's. Aug. 16, 1716.” 3 pages.
|
| Aug. 27. |
16. P. Methuen to the Lds of the Treasury. Is commanded to transmit the enclosed papers from Ireland, by which their Lordships will see how well the merchants have performed their contract for the transportation of the rebels. Whitehall, 27 Aug. 1716.
Minuted:—“12th September 1716. Read.”
Two enclosures, being (1) a letter from John Forster to Mr Delafaye, sending copy of “the examination,” so that Lord Gallway may send them to one of the Secretaries in England, to let them see how the masters of ships intrusted with the transportation of the rebels impose on the Government by bringing them on shore and suffering them to escape. Yesterday, while he was in court, the Sheriff of Cork found in a tavern in Cork three of the rebels, viz.:—Alexander Murray, senr and junr, Mr Peter Chambers, of Edinburgh, with Samuel Wallis, master of the ship called the “Anne,” of Liverpool, which came yesterday into the port of Cork. These prisoners talk very impudently and treasonably, and would do mischief on shore, and therefore he ordered the Sheriff of Cork to take them on board. Is informed that another cargo of these rebels put in at Waterford, and met with great encouragement there. All the officers of the southern ports should be ordered to have a watchful eye on these ships. Has issued warrants to apprehend the persons named in the enclosed advertisement. The militia in this county and city are in good order, and the body of the Protestants are most zealously affected to the King.
(2.) The examination of Thomas Cole, surveyor of Cove, in the port of Cork, taken before the Right Hon. John Forster, Esq., one of the Judges of Assize for the province of Munster. The surveyor deposes as to various circumstances touching the arrival at the above Cove on board a ship of 118 rebels taken at Preston and bound for Virginia. Also as to the escape of certain of them. One who arrived was said to be a young Scotch gentleman in scarlet clothes trimmed with gold, and worth 7 or 800 a year. Details the measures taken to recapture those who escaped. The surveyor says their escape was connived at by some of the officers of the ship. 10 Aug. 1716. 6 pages.
|
| 27 Aug. |
17. Report of the principal officers of the Mint to the Lords of Treasury, upon the bills of Mr John Roos, his Majesty's late [chief] engraver of public seals. Have examined the prices and rates and find them to be the same with those allowed to him in her late Majesty's reign and with those paid to his predecessor, Mr Harris, and to Mr. East, engraver to his Majesty King James. The work is good, and he deserves the prices set down. Mint Office, 27 Aug. 1716.
Minuted:—“30th July 1717. Ordered, except the charge of the great and privy seal for Ireland, which my Lords think proper to be paid by the Kingdom of Ireland.”
His bill referred to, which is as follows:— |
|
li. |
s~. |
đ. |
|
“For the Great Seale of Great Brittaine, engraven on one side with his Majesties effigies, represented sitting in his royall robes, crowned, and inthroned, with his septre and globe. On each side stand two figures, the one representing Great Brittaine, and the other Justice, and on the outside of them being a lyon and an unicorne, the one holding the royall standard with his Majesties armes, and the other holding the Union banner; the cannopy or top of the throne being adorned with roses and thistles, on which two angells lie supporting his Majestie's arms, with garter and imperiall crowne, and in the circumference this inscription: ‘Gorgius Dei gratia Magnæ Britanniæ Franciæ et Hiberniæ Rex Fidei Defen.,’ surrounded with a lawrell. And on the other side his Majesties effigies on horsback, represented in armour, with his sword drawn in his hand, and in a prospect, the city of London with this inscription in the circumference: ‘Brunswicen et Lvnebvrgen dux sacri Romani imperii archi. thesavrarius et princeps elect,’ &c., surrounded with a lawrell - - - - - |
200 |
00 |
00 |
|
“For the sillver weighing 117 oz. 10 wts. 0 grs., att 5s. 2d. per ounce - - - - |
030 |
01 |
01 |
|
“For two large signetts in steel, for the Secretaries of State, engraven with his Majesties royall armes, garter, supporters, helmet, mantle, crowne, crest and motto, with this inscription in the circumference, ‘Georgivs Dei gra. Mag. Britanniæ Fran. et Hiber. Rex fidei defensor,’ &c. - - - |
060 |
00 |
00 |
|
“For two shagriene cases to keep the said seales in - - - - - |
001 |
05 |
00 |
|
“For six signetts in steel for the Secretaries of State, engraven with his Majesties royall armes, garter, and crowne, with this inscription in the circumference: ‘Georgivs Dei G. Mag. Brit. Fran. et Hiber. Rex Fid Def.,’ &c. |
072 |
00 |
00 |
|
“For six shagriene cases to keep the said seales in - - - - - |
002 |
10 |
00 |
|
“For six smaller steel seales for the Secretaries of State, engraven with his Majesties royall armes, garter, and crowne - - - |
018 |
00 |
00 |
|
“For the privie seale of Great Brittaine, engraven with his Majesties royal armes, garter, and crowne, with two lyons supporters, each of them houlding a fether with this inscription in the circumference: ‘Georgeus Dei gratia Magnæ Britanniæ Fran. et Hibern. Rex fid. def.,’ &c. - - - - - |
020 |
00 |
00 |
|
“For the sillver weighing 25 oz. 16 wt. 0 grs. at 5s. 2d. per ounce - - |
006 |
13 |
03½ |
|
“For a shaggriene case to keep the said seale in - |
001 |
05 |
00 |
|
“For the grate seale of Ireland, engraven on one side with his Majesties effigies represented sitting in his royall robes, crowned and inthroned, with his scepter and globe; on each side stand two figures, the one representing Brittannia and the other Justice, and on the outside of them being a lyon and an unicorn, the one holding the Royall Standard with his Majesties armes, and the other holding the Union banner, the canopy or top of the Throne being adorned with roses and harps, &c., on which two angells lie supporting his Majestie's royall armes with garter and imperiall crowne, and on each side the cannopy is placed a harp and royall crowne, and in the circumference this inscription: ‘Georgius Dei gratia Magnæ Britanniæ Francæ et Hiberniæ Rex fidei defen.,’ surrounded with a lawrell. And on the other side his Majesties effigies on horseback represented in armour with his sword drawn in his hand, with a harp and an imperiall crowne placed behind him, and in a prospect the city of Dublin, with this inscription in the circumference: ‘Brunswichen et Lvnebvrgen Dvx sacri Romani imperii archi. thesavrarius et princeps elect,’ &c. with a lawrell - - |
200 |
00 |
00 |
|
“For the silver weighing 104 oz. 06 wt. 0 gr, at 5s. 2d. per ounce - - - - |
026 |
18 |
10 |
|
“For a large double seale for his Majestie's Court of Exchequer, engraven on one side with his Majestie's effigies in his royal robes, inthroned, &c., as in the great seale with this inscription in the circumference: ‘Georgivs Dei gratia Magnæ Britanniæ Francæ et Hiberniæ Rex fidei defen.,’ and on the other side his Majestie's armes royall, with a garter with an imperiall crowne over, supported with an antelope and a stagg, with this motto in an escroule, ‘Sigill scaccarii dom Regis,’ with this inscription in the circumference: ‘Brvnswicen et Lvnebvrgen dvx sac. Rom. imp. archi. Thesav. et princeps elector,’ &c. - - - |
060 |
00 |
00 |
|
“For the sillver weighing 37 oz. 17 wt. 0 gr. at 5s. 2d. per ounce - - |
009 |
15 |
00½ |
|
“For the privy seale for Ireland, engraven with a harp and an imperiall crowne over it, with this inscription in the circumference: ‘Georgivs d.g. Mag. Brit. Fr. et Hiberniæ Rex fid. def.,’ &c. and for the sillver, being a Veriall, weighing about 10 oz. 00 wt. 0 gr., with a large Ivery handle - - - - |
010 |
00 |
00 |
|
“For a large double judiciall seale for the countys of Denbigh, Montgomery, and Flint, engraven on one side with his Majesties effigies in armour on horsback, with a landskip under, and a plume of fethers, with the motto ‘Ich dien’ in an escroule placed behinde, and this inscription in the circumference: ‘Georgivs Dei gratia Mag. Britanniæ Franciæ et Hiberniæ Rex fidei def.,’ &c. And on the other side his Majestie's royall armes in a compartment shield, with an imperiall crowne over, and a plume of fethers in a Prince's crowne, with the motto ‘Ich dien’ in an escroule under, supported with a lyon crowned, and an antelope with a crowne about his neck and chained, with this inscription in the circumference: ‘Sigillum jvdiciale pro comitatibus Denbigii, Montgomeri et Flint,’ 1715 - - - - - |
060 |
00 |
00 |
|
“For the sillver weighing 34 oz. 01 wt. 0 gr. at 5s. 2d. per ounce - - - |
008 |
15 |
11 |
|
“For a shagriene case to keep the said seal in - |
001 |
05 |
00 |
|
— |
|
788 |
15 |
03½” |
|
4 pages.
|
| 28 Aug. |
18. Report of the Solicitor-General (Aland), to the Lords of the Treasury, on the letter of the Comrs of Forfeited Estates, as to fees demanded by the officers of the Exchequer on moneys imprested to carry on the service of the Commission. Is of opinion that by the Act all the moneys arising from the forfeited estates should go to the public, save as to the salaries of the Comrs and inferior officers, the incident charges, &c. “But there are no express words in that Act wch take away the fees of the officers of the Exchequer in any case.” 28 August 1716.
Minuted:—“29 Augt 1716. Send a copy to the Audr.”
The letter referred to. 2 pages and 2 halves.
|
| 31 Aug. |
19. P. Methuen to the Lords of the Treasury. Sends two papers of intelligence relating to two ships lying at Rochelle, and laden with arms for North Britain, that they may give orders to the officers of the several ports for searching and seizing the same. Whitehall, 31 Aug. 1716.
The papers referred to.
Minuted:—“3d Sepr letters writ to Comrs Customes here & in Scotland with copies of the papers to seize the shipps & armes if they come into port.” 3 pages.
|
| 3 Sept. |
20. Lord Galway to the Lords of the Treasury. Sends a representation of the Comrs for settling the poor Palatines in Ireland, and praying that the bounty of 624l., now granted till 28 March 1719, may be continued for some years beyond that time. Is of opinion that considering the use these poor people are towards improving the manufactures and strengthening the Protestant interest in Ireland, it will be a charity very beneficial to the public, and very well applied. Dublin Castle, 3 Sept. 1716.
In the representation of the Comrs they say that there are now 200 of the old families (exclusive of the young ones, who daily increase) who are well settled on farms in the country, have taken leases thereof, and employ themselves with all possible industry in raising flax and hemp and other husbandry. A few tradesmen are settled in Dublin. 4 pages.
|
| 3 Sept. |
21. Report of Edward Young to the Lords of the Treasury, on the memorial of the Earl of Rochester. The premises in Richmond Park are very much out of repair. The great lodge is so ruinous that it should be new built, and made less, the wall round the park ought to be forthwith repaired, &c. Estimates the work at 840l., without timber. The park wall is about nine miles in length. 3 Sept. 1716. |
|
£ |
|
Minuted:—“11th Sept 1716. Agreed forthwth to repair ye wall - |
220 |
|
Repairing Aldrich's lodge - - - |
40 |
|
Repairing pond head - - |
20 |
|
Drayns to be cleansed - - |
100 |
|
— |
|
Out of dotards. - - - |
380” |
|
Also the memorial. 3 pages.
|
[? About
5 Sept.] |
22. Answers to the report sent to the Lords of the Treasury from the Board of Customs in Scotland, containing their reasons for dismissing Mr Weemys, Collector at Anstruther.
The answers are paragraph by paragraph. In the first he was ordered, in apprehension of the Rebellion, to transmit his balance, which he neglected to do. 2nd. He took merchants' notes instead of ready money for the duties, and by his want of circumspection 4,000l. was carried off by the rebels when they were at Enster, &c.
Minuted:—“Read 5 7br. 1716.”
Also the copy of the report referred to. 6 pages.
|
| 7 Sept. |
23. Memorial of John Lansdell to the Lords of the Treasury. Incloses an account of the bank annuities received from John Aislabie, Esq., of what has been since paid away, and of how much remains in the hands of the treasurer, being 22,760l.; 13,500l., part thereof, is reserved to pay for saltpetre to the East India Company, and there is a debt of above 10,000l. to the artificers at Midsummer last for iron ordnance. Asks for their Lps' warrant to transfer the remaining sum of 9,210l. towards payment of the debt. “Treasury Office of Ordnance, Sept. 7, 1716.”
The account named. 2 pages.
|
[? About
13 Sept.] |
24. Petition of George Mackenzie to the Prince of Wales. Served the late Queen as her Secretary in Poland for several years [viz., from 1711–May 1714], for which his expenses were not paid. Lays his case before his Royal Highness for relief.
The case referred to. By particular orders he undertook several journeys upon important affairs in Poland and in Germany, and likewise was sent by the late Queen's express command upon a journey relating to the Electoral Prince of Saxony into Italy. In his journey in Italy lost everything in his passage of the Serio River. Came over to England by order of the Secretary of State in 1713, and remained till the May following, expecting every day to be re-dispatched, and was keeping servants in Dresden and the Hague in pay all that time. When at the Court of Poland, by particular orders of the Secretaries of State, spared no expense for intelligence “at a juncture when the same was thought so needful as that of the northern war, and our armies in Flanders, and the peace not yet made.” His claim is altogether 1,791l.
Minuted:—“13th Sepr 1716. To be brought in on Monday.”
Again:—“17th Septr 1716. My Lords, upon reading this demand & a warrt signed by the Queen, and countersigned by the Earl of Oxford in full satisfaction of his expence & disbursements are pleas'd to answer that this matter, having been determined in the Queen's time, they cannot create a new debt upon the Queen's arrears, to the prejudice of her servants & tradesmen. Vide Min. Book of the above date.” 1½ pages.
[The above is also entered in the Minute Book, Vol. 21, p. 31.] |
| 15 Sept. |
25. A state of all accounts undeclared within the division of Auditor Jett.
Signed:—“Tho. Jett, auditor, Sepr 15th 1716.” There are orders to prosecute against many of the accountants if they did not clear their accounts. 18¼ pages.
|
| 15 Sept. |
26. George Allanson to the Rt Hon. Robt Walpole. Encloses a letter from a man who had lived with a rebel for five years, but whom he thinks to be of honest principles. Bristol, 15 Sept. 1716.
The letter referred to of John James. Sends what he knows relating to the silver mine in North Britain. In the year 1711 was servant to Sir John “Arskins,” near Alva, who often told him he had a mine in the side of a hill near his house, in which there was a sort of ore that would produce metal of value if a person of judgment made the trial. Details the efforts made to obtain the metal until they found that which answered their highest expectations, and the ore was so rich, that from one pound weight could be made the value of 4s. and 4d. and upwards. Continued the work with so great success and secrecy that the servants belonging to the same family never knew what they were about. Several hundred pounds' value were refined in a very short time. The ore was dug by three or four of Sir John's poor tenants that did not know what it was. In a short time after the work was begun, Sir John went to the Pretender, and never came to his family afterwards. And to secure all the plate then made from the King's troops, his lady ordered it to be hidden under the boards in an upper floor, and all the ore that was then dug was put into casks and hidden in the earth, to the value of many thousands of pounds, but neither Mr. Hamilton nor himself were ever trusted in that affair, although they both knew the place full well. The mine which was dug was 4, 5, and in some places 6 inches thick, and certainly is of many millions value; but he discovered one in another mountain of about 12 inches, and is almost confident that no other person in the world besides himself knows anything of it. Is ready and willing to discover the same at the first opportunity to the Crown. Has brought a sample of the ore.
Minuted:—“17th Sepr. Write to Mr Alanson to direct Mr James to come up.” 2½ pages.
|
| 16 Sept. |
27. Wm Robinson to —. Incloses the case of the Vicar of Topclif, being desired by the best inhabitants to transmit the case to the Lords of the Treasury, hoping they will give directions to the Receiver “to pay the exhibition of fine pd yearly to ye vicar,” who always received it till of late years. Cannot imagine how the schoolmaster gained a pretension, for he never officiates nor assists the vicar, who is a worthy, honest man, whilst the schoolmaster is an idle, drunken fellow. Newby, 16 Sept. 1716.
Minuted:—“Sent to Mr Jet.” 1½ pages. |
| 17 Sept. |
28. “The case of Alberto Croce, a Genoese merchant, living in Common Garden parish, presented by Mr Viceti, secretary of the most serene republic of Genoa.” Is taxed by the Comrs for the Land Tax as an English Roman Catholic, notwithstanding he is unnaturalised, and not so much as a free denizen, and pays Customs as an alien and foreign merchant. Desires to be excused from paying double taxes.
Minuted:—“17th Septr 1716. My Lords cannot do anything in this.” ½ page.
|
| 18 Sept. |
29. “An account of the sums contributed by the Rt Hon. John Aislabie, Esqr, Treasurer of his Mat's Navy, for the purchase of annuities after the rate of 5li p[er] cent. p[er] annum, how much thereof hath been transferr'd by him, and to whom; as also the dividends he is to be charged with for the use of the public, whilst the said annuities remained in his name.” 18 September 1716.
Minuted:—“Read 19th Septr 1716.” 1 page.
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| 20 Sept. |
30. Order of Council on a report of the Lords of Trade and Plantations, made on the petition of Col. William Partridge, which sets out that there is a tract of land between the rivers Kennebeck and Pemaquid, to the eastward of New England, in America, belonging to the petitioner solely; as also another tract contiguous to it, belonging jointly to the petitioner and Christopher Toppan, by virtue of purchases from the Indians in 1661, 1662, and 1674, as appears by the abstracts of the original Indian deeds annexed; which lands they possessed till they were driven away, and their settlements destroyed by the Indians in the late wars, since which the lands have laid waste and unimproved. If his Majesty will confirm their titles by grant under the great seal, they will re-settle the lands without charge to the Crown. The Comrs report that the petitioner proposes to build three towns, to consist of at least 40 families each, at the first settlement, the first town to be completed and settled in two years from 1 May 1717, the second in two years after that, and the third in two years more, provided there be no war with the French or Indians. These lands are in a very good climate, the soil is fertile and capable of producing hemp. There are plenty of trees fit for masts and other naval stores, with navigable rivers and good harbours; as also a good fishery on the coast, and in a little time such settlement may turn to the advantage of this kingdom, in furnishing naval stores and other ways in return for our woollen and other manufactures. It will, besides, be a great security to his Majesty's northern provinces in strengthening their frontiers by such a number of people, and therefore they think that the petitioner should be gratified. These purchases from the Indians were in possession 30 years before the grant of 7 Oct. 1691 to the inhabitants of the province of Massachusetts Bay, and the Comrs conceive that that charter will not be an impediment to the confirmation of these titles. If the grant passes, they suggest certain clauses as regards pine trees, &c. The Order in Council approves of the confirmation. The Lords of the Treasury to consider of clauses reserving a proper quit-rent, &c. Hampton Court, 20 Sept. 1716.
Minuted:—“6th August 1717. Read. A copie of the grant of Massachusets bay to be produced.”
Also “Abstract of Indian Deeds. &c.” 8½ pages.
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| 24 Sept. |
31. England.—Account of the salaries and incident charges of the Commissioners of Enquiry [as to forfeited estates] and their officers from the 24th of June to the 24th of September 1716. 2 pages.
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[? About
24 Sept.] |
32. Petition of Andrew Reynaud to the Lords of the Treasury. As to frauds committed by the Directors of the Royal Lutestring Company at the Custom House.
Minuted:—“24th September 1716. Read and rejected.”
Also accusations exhibited by him against several belonging to the same company. 2 pages.
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[? About
26 Sept.] |
33. Copies of various papers relating to the claims of John Blackwell, Constable of the Ward of Cheap, in the City of London, for suppressing mobs since the King's Accession. In his “Information” he says he had certain intelligence on the 29th of May 1715 that there was a design laid to raise three mobs in the City of London that night, one in Cheapside, one in Whitechapel, and another in Smithfield; that the mob in Cheapside was to join that in Whitechapel, and both come back and join that in Smithfield, and there to proclaim the Pretender, and that then persons of distinction were to appear at the head of them to direct what they should further do, viz., to seize on the Bank of England, or set it on fire, to assassinate and murder such magistrates of the city as had appeared zealous for King George, or to set their houses on fire; particularly the Rt Hon. Sir William Humphries, Knt, Lord Mayor, Sir Gilbert Heathcote, and Sir Charles Peers; further to raise mobs elsewhere in order for a general insurrection, and to pave the way for open rebellion. The informant took measures to prevent the junction of the mob in Cheapside with that in Whitechapel, and arrested 28 of them and lodged them in the Poultry Counter.
Minuted:—“26th Septr 1716. To be further considered.”
One of the papers is a list of persons ready to take up arms in the King's defence in case the Pretender invades his Majesty's dominions. 6 pages.
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| 27 Sept. |
34. Report of the Attorney and Solicitor-General to the Lords of the Treasury, on the letter of the Comrs for Forfeitures, now at Preston, wherein they represent that in a former letter they had signified the necessity of appointing some persons with proper powers, to let and set untenanted estates, and that they found it requisite to make a further representation of the state and condition of the forfeited estates, and of estates settled to superstitious uses; and to apprise their Lordships that several houses, demesnes, and parks, which did belong to the convicted rebels and others given to superstitious uses (now vested in his Majesty) are still detained and possessed by their relations or servants; and that some estates are let by parole at an under rent, or to Popish tenants, neither able nor willing to answer the rents to the Crown. All which estates they are of opinion should be entered on and otherwise disposed of. And they thereby likewise inform their Lordships that there are several coal mines, lead mines, and slate pits which might be set out to be worked, and that if some speedy care be not taken the mesne profits will be lost, or much lessened, and the estates will very much impair in their yearly value, and that they, being only Comrs of Enquiry, conceive they have not any power by the Act to remedy such inconveniences, and that some officer should be appointed for that purpose. They likewise represent that they are informed by Mr Gough, their surveyor for Ireland, that Dunmore Park, the Duke's Meadow, the Gardens of Kilkenny, and a mill, the estates of the late Duke of Ormonde in Ireland worth about 500l. per ann., are untenanted, and they recommend Mr Gough to be employed for setting the same. Certify that they have considered the Act. It vests the forfeited estates in his Majesty, who has the real possession for the use of the public, &c. To avoid inquisitions and litigation in the Court of Exchequer the Comrs were appointed, and they are before the 24th of June 1717 to receive claims of persons to the same, &c. And the Comrs are empowered to enquire of all real and personal estates and interests so given to superstitious uses, &c.
The Comrs are right in their observation that they are only Comrs of Enquiry, and have not any power to let any of the forfeited estates, or to receive the rents thereof, except as to the goods and chattels of forfeiting persons, which they are empowered to sell. It will not be proper for their Lps to appoint any persons as proposed to let or set the untenanted forfeited estates, but when the Comrs have certified, it may be proper for their Lps to name some one to take the profits. As for the houses given to superstitious uses, they cannot be entered upon without proceedings in the Exchequer, but their Lps may permit the lead mines, &c. to be worked. On the whole matter further direction of Parliament should be obtained. 27 Sept. 1716.
Minuted:—“Send this report to the Comrs for Forfeited Estates, and desire them to execute the trusts reposed in them by Act of Parlt.” Again:—“L~re signd 28th Septr 1716.”
The letter of the Comrs referred to. 8½ pages.
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| 28 Sept. |
35. Report of the Attorney-General (Northey) to the Lords of the Treasury, on the state of the prosecutions ordered against the Auditors of Imprests for taking illegal fees. When ordered to exhibit an information in the Court of King's Bench against the Auditors of the Imprests, for extorting fees and other abuses in their office, directed Mr Cracherode to inquire what materials there were, whereon to found such a prosecution; who laid before him the copy of petition to the House of Commons by Joseph Quilter, John Ellison, John Key, and Andrew Verger, for themselves and a great number of other persons concerned in the several lotteries, stating that notwithstanding the Act forbad the officers of the Exchequer to receive fees, yet the petitioners had been obliged to pay fees to them before they could receive what was due. John Quilter, being empowered by one Robert Smithberd to receive 6s. on a 10l. lottery order, was obliged to pay 3s. 3½d. The others also had to submit to the same kind of exactions. Relates other proceedings which he (the Attorney-General) took. Directed Mr Crachrode to send to the three persons who had made affidavits to produce the original papers, whereby to settle the information, but he could not get them from Key and Quilter. Is of opinion that there is not sufficient to ground an information upon. Sept. 28, 1716.
Minuted:—“27th Septr 1716. Read. My Lords advise wth Mr Attorney and Sollr, desiring them to give order to Mr Crachrode for carrying on this prosecuc[i]on in the most effectual manner, and that he use all faire indeavrs that the evidence wanting may be obteyned, and to considr of all circumstances wch may conduce to ye successe thereof.” 6½ pages.
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| 29 Sept. |
36. “Accot of the income of such part of the revenues of Scotland as are called the Civil List Revenues, from his Majt's accession to the Throne to Michas. 1716.”
“Accot of the expence of the Civil List of Scotland” for the same time.
“Accot of the income of such part of the revenues of Scotland as are called the Civil List Revenues (exclusive of drawback and charges of managemt), for the same time.
With rough draft of some other revenue matters. 7 pages.
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| 19 March–29 Sept. |
37. Three representations of Anthony Nicholl, Esq., receiver and paymaster of the money arising by the sale of tin, to the Lords of the Treasury, more particularly as to the affairs of Mr Balhatchett, the present agent, who succeeded Mr Quick in the county of Devon. Showing what tin has been coined, how much has been sold, to whom, and for how much, in whose hands the money is, and what quantity of tin remains unsold.
The last finishes thus:—“The longer the prosecution of him [Mr Balhatchett] is delaied, the greater hazard the Governmt will run of losing the money he has rep[ai]ed since at this tyme. I am credibly informed he has estate and effects suffict to answr the money by him rep[ai]ed without any other persons suffering by his mismanagemt. Wherefore I humbly pray yor Lo[rdshi]pps' directions for my future conduct in this affair. Penrose, 7ber 29th, 1716.”
The other papers are dated March 19 and May 5, 1716. 7½ pages.
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| 29 Sept. |
38. Report of Wm. Pulteney to the Lords of the Treasury, on the memorial of Sir James Campbell, Lieut.-Governor of Stirling Castle, praying for directions to dispose of 300 bolls of oatmeal, which, by the Duke of Argyle's orders, he took up for the use of the garrison. The meal was provided at the time of the Rebellion to supply any of the troops who might be obliged to move that way, but was not used. Advises the appraisement and return of it to the seller, &c. Whitehall, 29 Sept. 1716. 1½ pages.
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[? About
2 Oct.] |
39. Memorial of John, Earl of Dunmore, to the Lords of the Treasury. Asks that directions may be given to the Master of the Works to lay an estimate before them for converting some empty houses in the Savoy into barracks, and that a house referred to may be appointed for the commanding officer.
Minuted:—“2d October 1716. Read. Ref. to Survr-Genll.”
Encloses a note referring the same to Hugh Cholmeley, Esq., Surveyor-General. 1¼ pages.
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| 3 Oct. |
40. Report of Col. Wm. Rhett to the Comrs of Customs. The nature of his wound prevents him waiting on them, but sends an account of the late insults done to his Majesty's officers in South Carolina. The late barbarous war gave the Deputy Governor Daniell a “pretence to issue commissions by sea as if against them,” but then he knew that commissions “expressing Indians 500 miles up in the mountains would alone be too great an absurdity,” he therefore added a clause to seize all pirates that infested the coasts, of whom no complaints had been made, nor did any pirates appear. The easiness of attacking the Spaniards, as well as others equally defenceless, were the true reasons of giving out any commissions at all. [Gives some account of piratical proceedings (prior to the granting commissions), in which Matthew Mussen, of Jamaica, and Quelch were concerned]. Mussen gave out, at Providence, the favourable usage he had received from the Deputy Governor, who was at the same time Judge of the Admiralty, as well as Governor of the place. His conduct so much alarmed everybody, that the best and most considerable inhabitants signed a letter and sent it to Capt. Howard, of H.M. ship “Shoream,” desiring him to continue with them to deter the pirates. [Relates other proceedings of Mussen, and the Deputy Governor.] Brentwood in Essex, 3 Oct. 1716. 6 pages. [See also Vol. CCI., 5.] |
[? About
13 Oct.] |
41. Petition of Daniel Arthur, merchant, to the Lords of the Treasury. Many of the people of quality who have gone from England to Paris have made use of petitioner's correspondent there, for return of their money, by taking up the same from him and giving their bills on their friends in England, particularly the Duke of Shrewsbury and Matthew Prior, Esq. Prays for immediate payment of 2,000l. and interest, thus advanced to Mr Prior for her late Majesty's service.
Encloses copy of letter from the Duke and a letter from M. Prior, dated 13 Oct. 1716, and an extract from one from Mr Stanhope in corroboration. 4½ pages.
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| 17 Oct. |
42. An account of cash, &c. received, and payments made by John Hill, Receiver and Paymaster for Transport Service from the 7th of September 1715 to 29th September 1716. Certified 17 Oct. 1716. 2 large pages.
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| 23 Oct. |
43. Affidavit of Edward Rathbon, of Liverpool, mariner, who deposed that he received on board his ship at Liverpool on 26 April then last past, 47 rebel prisoners, to be transported to the Plantations, and that he transported 45 of them to Montserrat in the month of June, and that the other two died on the passage. 23 Oct. 1716. 1 page.
Certificate of the “President” of Mountserrat in corroboration. 2 pages.
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| May–Oct. |
44. Papers touching Custom House fees, including an order for setting up tables of fees where such are legally due. Three of them relate to the fees at the Custom House at Exeter. Between May and October 1716, 6 pages.
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