|
| April 1. |
2,148. Journal of Lords of Trade and Plantations. Petition of Jacob Leisler the younger on behalf of the condemned rebels at New York read, and resolution taken. [Board of Trade. Journal, 7. p. 93.] |
| April 1. |
2,149. Minute of Lords of Trade and Plantations. Recommending the pardon of Abraham Gouverneur, Gerard Beckman, and four others, condemned as accomplices of Leisler. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LXIX., pp. 386, 387.] |
| April 1. |
2,150. Minutes of Council of Virginia. William Edwards appointed Clerk of Assembly. Order for the appearance of certain witnesses in connection with the case of the ship Society. |
|
Ordered that the Clerks of County Courts shall no longer be empowered to appoint deputies unless they be burgesses, but that the County Courts shall appoint substitutes if clerks be incapacitated. Order for enforcing the law as to delinquent soldiers, and for exempting constables and headboroughs from being listed as soldiers. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LXXXIX., pp. 646–648.] |
| April 2. |
2,151. Journal of House of Burgesses of Virginia. Sundry Committees appointed. The Sheriffs of two Counties summoned, having failed to make their return of elections. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LXXXV., pp. 837–839.] |
| April 2. |
2,152. Minutes of the General Assembly of Virginia. Two members appointed to swear the Burgesses. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LXXXV., pp. 783–784.] |
| April 4. |
2,153. Minutes of Council of Virginia. Order for seizure and custody of goods salved from a ship foundering at sea by Captain John Purvis of the ship Effingham, and for arrest of Purvis and his chief officers (pp. 649, 650). |
| April 5. |
Resolved that Christopher Robinson, being a very useful member of the Burgesses be not yet sworn of the Council. Order for Christopher Wormeley to give security on appointment as a Collector of Customs. Orders for the Collectors to be diligent and to seize if possible certain ships mentioned by the Commissioners of Customs as trading direct from Scotland (pp. 651–654). Commodore Isaac Townsend's letter reporting his arrival read. Ordered that he be summoned to James City to give account of his instructions (p. 659). Resolved that the powder sent from England be distributed among the various counties and the guns put ashore at York Fort (p. 607). [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LXXXI., pp. as cited.] |
| April 4. |
2,154. Journal of House of Burgesses of Virginia. Sundry writs and returns submitted to the Committee for elections. Resolved that the House is the sole judge of the capacity or incapacity of its members, and that any sheriff who aspires to be so is guilty of a breach of privilege. Order for arrest of two sheriffs; for a common form of all returns of elections to be settled; and for means to be considered for preserving the rights of the house as to its members. |
| April 5. |
The Committee of Elections having made its report as to disputed returns, the Lieutenant-Governor was asked to issue a new writ for Elizabeth City County. The two sheriffs in custody were examined and discharged. |
| April 6. |
Leave of absence granted to Benjamin Harrison on account of sickness. |
| April 7. |
The House attended the Lieutenant-Governor, and asked for a copy of his speech. |
| April 8. |
Copies of the speech, of the royal permission to the Lieutenant-Governor to accept £300 voted to him last session and of Mr. Jeffries' letter concerning the addresses received; also a return of the powder and ammunition imported. Speech of the Lieutenant-Governor, recommending renewal of the Defence Act and consideration
of the places where military stores shall be kept. Resolved that the Lieutenant-Governor be asked to appoint a day of thanksgiving; which he consented to do. Grievances of sundry counties read and referred to a committee. |
| April 9. |
More petitions and grievances read and referred. Resolved to prepare a bill to continue the soldiers at the heads of the rivers, and to ask the Lieutenant-Governor for his advice as to alterations or otherwise of boundaries. Resolved to invite the Council to a joint address of thanks to their Majesties. Message from the Lieutenant-Governor as to the stay of the Commodore before sailing for England. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LXXXV., pp. 839–851.] |
| April 5. |
2,155. Minutes of the General Assembly of Virginia. A new writ was issued for Elizabeth City County. |
| April 6. |
Mr. Secretary Cole read the Lieutenant-Governor's speech. Edward Randolph's Commission published. Copies of the speech and of other documents sent to the Burgesses. |
| April 8. |
On address of the Burgesses the Council joined in asking for a day of thanksgiving, which was ordered accordingly. |
| April 9. |
Commodore Isaac Townsend's instructions as to his stay communicated to the Burgesses, who returned their thanks. Address of the Burgesses on the same. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LXXXV., pp. 784–791.] |
April 5.
Bermuda. |
2,156. John Hubbard to the Earl of Nottingham. I venture to lay my deplorable condition before you. I was commissioned Sheriff by the late Bermuda Company and held the same place as deputy after the dissolution of that company. In that time one James Smailes arrived with a ship which was ordered after an action at law to be seized by Governor Cony. I served the writ of execution as Sheriff, and owing to Smailes's arrest the ship and cargo perished. Smailes after Governor Cony's departure brought an action against me for £3,000 which was given in his favour by the partiality of Judge Hordesnell, the jury being packed. I appealed but the appeal was refused; and now an order has come from England to levy execution upon me. All my papers in defence are in London. The only person who can vindicate me is absent, and I am in danger of utter ruin. I beg for your help. Governor Cony has shown what a bad character is Smailes. 2 pp. [America and West Indies. 477. No. 45.] |
| April 6. |
2,157. Minutes of Council of Jamaica. Reported by prisoners that ten or twelve privateers were cruising to windward and that Nathaniel Grubing was on his way to make a second raid on Jamaica. Order that the sloop Pembroke be hired, that Captain Edward Oakely of H.M.S. Guernsey put sixty men on board her and press ten more, that the Lieutenant of the Guernsey take command, and in company with the sloop Greyhound cruise round the Island. Order for payments. Order for all beneficed ministers who have not taken the oaths required by law to come in and do so before the second Monday in May. [Board of Trade. Jamaica, 77. pp. 153, 154.] |
| April 6. |
2,158. Journal of Lords of Trade and Plantations. Captain St. Lo's claim to prizes further considered. [Board of Trade. Journal, 7. pp. 94, 95.] |
| April 7. |
2,159. Order of the Queen in Council. Declaring her intention to pardon Abraham Groverneur, Gerard Beckman, and four other condemned accomplices of Leisler, on their application for the same. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LXIX., pp. 387, 388, and Board of Trade. New York, 48. pp. 36–37.] |
| [April.] |
2,160. Memorandum of Sir Edmund Andros. Since his instructions forbid him to dispose of any part of the quit-rents without leave, it is proposed that he be given instructions, on any expense that may happen through invasion of the French or otherwise, to dispose of £1,000 from the quit-rents for defence of the country, or assistance to the neighbouring Colonies. ½ p. [America and West Indies. 637. No. 96.] |
| April 8. |
2,161. Minutes of Council of Virginia. Ordered that Secretary Cole before the breaking up of the General Court give an account of all records in his custody. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LXXXIV., p. 686.] |
| April 9. |
2,162. Proclamation of the Lieutenant-Governor of Virginia. Appointing a day of thanksgiving for the preservation of the King and Queen and for late victories. Signed. Fr. Nicholson. 1 p. Endorsed. Rec'd. 6 Sept., 1692. [America and West Indies. 637. No. 97.] |
| April 10. |
2,163. Minutes of Lords of Trade and Plantations. Requiring the attendance of Jacob Teller and two more Dutchmen of New York on the 18th inst. Draft. ½ p. Endorsed. 10 April, 1692. [Board of Trade. New York, 4. No. 94.] |
| [April.] |
2,164. Minute of Lords of Trade and Plantations. That a copy of Jacob Mauritz's petition be delivered to Mr. Samuel Allen, who will attend the Board on the 18th of April. Draft. 1 p. [Board of Trade. New York, 4. No. 95.] |
| April 11. |
2,165. Minutes of Council of Jamaica. Order for a sloop to be pressed and manned and armed and despatched as soon as possible to join the Greyhound and Pembroke against the French. Colonel James O'Brien resigned the command of the forts in Port Royal and Peter Beckford produced the King's warrant for his own appointment. Order for the Attorney-General to prepare reasons for an address to the King, praying him to annul the Acts of the Duke of Albemarle's Assembly. Order for the French prisoners to be sent away under a flag of truce. Order that the evening and morning gun be no longer fired at Port Royal, and that pistol powder be delivered for the firing of guns on rejoicing days at St. Jago de la Vega. Order for beacons to be erected to windward for giving alarms, and that on such alarm the chief officer of every regiment dispose of the women, children and negroes at their discretion, and the reformado officers repair to the colonel of each regiment. Edmund Edlyne produced a deputation from the
Patentee for the Collectors and Receiver-General's office and was sworn. [Board of Trade. Jamaica, 77. pp. 154–157.] |
| April 11. |
2,166. Minutes of Council of New York. Order for impressment of seamen to make up the complement of the Archangel, and for representation to Captain Hicks that the quarrel between himself and the purser is the chief obstacle to supplying him with provisions. Resolved that prisoners accused of treason may be bailed. Thomas Johnson and John Laurence sworn of the Council. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LXXV., pp. 308–310.] |
| April 11. |
2,167. Minutes of Council of Virginia. Letter from Captain Finch read, asking for a survey of H.M.S. Henry, prize, describing her as a dangerous vessel, and asking further that the other men-of-war be directed to supply him with such slop clothes as they can spare, his men having suffered much from want of clothing. Ordered accordingly (pp. 670–672). Captain Robert Fairfax's (of H.M.S. Conception) letter asking for new anchors and cables and for a new master read. Order for the anchors and cables to be supplied if possible by the other men-of-war, and for the Collectors to look for a suitable person to be master (pp. 675, 676). |
| April 12. |
Captain John Purvis and others appeared, when it was decided that the ship from which he saved the goods was no wreck. Ordered that he make diligent search for the goods (pp. 650, 651). Edward Randolph's appointment as Surveyor-General of Customs in America read. Orders issued for the sheriffs to aid him in his office (pp. 658, 659). Commodore Isaac Townsend declaring that his orders were to stay but sixty days in Virginia, it was ordered that all ships for England be ready if possible by that time, and that five ships be permitted to sail before the fleet (pp. 659–661). [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LXXXIV., pp. as cited.] |
| April 11. |
2,168. Journal of House of Burgesses of Virginia. Disputed election for Norfolk County decided. Address to the Lieutenant-Governor begging that the time for the Commodore's stay might be prolonged, as it was too short to permit the loading of so large a fleet. The Council was asked to concur therein. Form for return of writs settled. The Council asked to confer with the Burgesses in order to represent the misconduct of sheriffs at elections to the Lieutenant-Governor. The House was called over, and it was ordered that all defaulters should be brought in custody unless they appear to-morrow morning. The Council's amendments to the address as to the convoy rejected as superfluous. Leave given for a bill to pay the Burgesses at the public expense. Several grievances of counties considered. |
| April 12. |
After conference with the Council it was agreed that the address as to the convoy should be left as originally drawn, and that the additional clauses of the Council should be annexed thereto. Claims and grievances considered. Order for a bill to direct methods of prosecution of slaves, and to restrain the liberties granted by certain masters to their slaves. Resolved to address the Governor as to the incoming of Maryland Indians, that the same may be
regulated. Conferrers appointed to meet the Council, as to the distribution of military stores and other matters. Order for examination and comparison of Francis Page's copies of ancient records. |
| April 13. |
Charles Scarborough explained his absence from the House and was excused. Governor Copley's letter asking for a loan of fifty barrels of powder, read. Agreed to lend him twenty-five. Report of the conference with the Council as to the form of writs for election, wherein the Council differed from the Burgesses. Answer agreed upon as to the Governor's message respecting a regular messenger to reside at New York or New England for purposes of intelligence. The Lieutenant-Governor's message as to his omission to run the boundary line south of James River was read. |
| April 14. |
Message to the Lieutenant-Governor, recommending the employment of a special messenger at times of emergency only, in consequence of the cost. The Sheriff of Lancaster was brought in in custody, and on making his return of the election was discharged. Message from the Council concurring in the loan of powder to Maryland. |
| April 15. |
The House thanked the Governor for his message, that five ships were allowed to sail before the fleet. Two Sheriffs brought in in custody, for making imperfect returns of election. William Armistead declared after debate to be member for Elizabeth City County. Resolved that no vote at election of Burgesses be valid unless given by the voter in person. Message from the Lieutenant-Governor telling the Burgesses that they had fully met his intentions in regard to a special messenger. |
| April 16. |
Bills for the prosecution of negroes, and for dividing Rappahannock County ordered. Orders and instructions given for a bill to regulate surgeons' accounts. Resolved to approach the Council for joint addresses to the Lieutenant-Governor for enforcement of the Ports Act, and to the King for confirmation thereof. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LXXXV., pp. 851–867.] |
| April 11. |
2,169. Minutes of the General Assembly of Virginia. Answer of the Council to the application of the Burgesses for a joint address as as to the convoy. Joint Committees agreed to for consideration of the distribution of military stores, and to draw up forms of writs of election. |
| April 12. |
The Lieutenant-Governor said he would do what he could as to the convoy. Governor Copley's letter sent to the Burgesses. Conference as to the form of writs continued. |
| April 13. |
The Burgesses' answer as to the loan of powder received, also the scheme for distribution of military stores. Messages from the Governor as to the employment of a messenger, and as to the marking off the boundary of Carolina. |
| April 14. |
The Burgesses answer as to a special messenger received. |
April 15.
April 16. |
Messages of the Lieutenant-Governor as to the sailing of five ships before the fleet. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LXXXV., pp. 791–803.] |
April 12.
Bermuda. |
2,170. Governor Richier to Lords of Trade and Plantations. I hope that my former letters have sufficiently demonstrated to you the importance of these Islands in time of war. The fact is well known to the French, but the rocks have deterred them so far from making any attack. The rocks are in fact our chief defence, for I cannot oblige the Council to consent that more than two [files?] shall be on duty at the Castle at once, and but one at Queen's or Pagett's fort. Nor can I make them augment the soldiers' pay, which is but four pounds a year. The men who attended at Queen's fort last quarter left the service owing to the smallness of the wages. At a Council last week I urged the necessity of more men for the Castle and forts and better pay, but without result; so I have now doubled the numbers of men and ordered the sheriff to advance the wages. I cannot prevail with the Council to allow any salary for a store keeper or one to keep the arms in good order. My instructions forbid me to grant any warrant for payment of money without the consent of the Council. There is a bill for fifty shillings for cleaning arms in Sir Robert Robinson's time, which the Council will not pay. Several others have money due to them for public work, so that none but those who are forced will take employment from the Government. What money there was in the Treasury at my arrival lay in Samuel Trott's hands. His accounts show a balance of £537. Many of the inhabitants are leaving to find provisions elsewhere. Eighty left for the Bahamas ten days ago. The Indian corn crop is spoiled by ants. Signed. I. Richier. 1½ pp. Endorsed. Recd. 26 May, 1692. Read 19 Aug. 1692. [America and West Indies. 477. No. 46; and Board of Trade. Bermuda, 28. pp. 12–14.] |
| [April 12.] |
2,171. Abstract of the foregoing. 1½ pp. [America and West Indies. 477. No. 47.] |
| April 12. |
2,172. A second abstract of Governor Richier's letters of 16 October and 12 April. [America and West Indies. 477. No. 48.] |
| April 12. |
2,173. Minutes of Council of Barbados. Orders for sundry payments of salaries. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. XII., pp. 285–287.] |
April 13.
James City. |
2,174. Edward Randolph to Governor Copley. The Lords of Trade have confirmed me as Deputy Auditor of Maryland and I shall be ready to serve you in that and in all other matters. I enclose a list of ships which may be of use to you. I meant to send you a law of Virginia for an impost on liquors, which, if you can get it passed in Maryland, will be of great service to the Crown. I send you also a book of rates, in which you will see that you are bound under penalty of £1,000 to swear to observe the Acts of Trade. I am sure you will do so, and give your enemies no handle against you. I intended to have waited on you with Captain Digges, but am detained by a trial. I long to be at St. Maries though I shall make little stay, having instructions to make my survey here first. I know there is much to be done in your Colony, especially in the Eastern parts adjoining Newcastle. I beg you to proceed quietly till you can have a fair blow at them. Lieutenant-Governor Nicholson is
very zealous. I reserve further discourse till we meet. Copy. 1 p. Endorsed. Recd. 6 Sept. 1692, from Mr. Randolph. [Board of Trade. Maryland, 2. No. 72.] |
| April 14. |
2,175. Minutes of Council of Jamaica. Order for Colonel William Beeston and Mr. Gilbert Heathcot to receive £300 to be used in soliciting the Island's affairs in England, and for the salary due to the late Lord Inchiquin to be paid to James O'Brien his executor. Order for a circular letter to the parishes to take evidence and report as to the proceedings at the election of the Duke of Albemarle's Assembly. [Board of Trade. Jamaica, 77. pp. 157–160.] |
| April 15. |
2,176. Petition of John Custis to the Lieutenant-Governor of Virginia. For discharge from the office of Councillor on account of age and infirmity. Signed. Jno. Custis. 1¼ pp. [America and West Indies. 637. No. 98.] |
| April 15. |
2,177. Minutes of Council of Virginia. Colonel John Custis's resignation of his office accepted (pp. 652, 654). Order for five ships to be permitted to sail before the fleet and that the sheriffs give notice thereof (p. 662). Governor Copley's request for a loan of powder sent to the Burgesses, who consented to the loan of twenty-five barrels (pp. 667, 668). Order for copies of all documents issued by Richard Whitehead as to the Northern Neck to be sent to the Clerk of Council, as also of all documents and proceedings made by Philip Ludwell (pp. 686, 687). |
| April 16. |
Order for publication of John Custis's resignation of his offices. Christopher Wormely gave his security and took the oath as Collector. John Custis's bond, securing the Lieutenant-Governor against any damage from his appointment as Collector on the Eastern shore, executed. Charles Scarborough appointed Naval officer, Collector and Commander in Chief in Accomack and Northampton Counties in place of Custis. John Lear appointed Collector (on casting lots between him and Mr. Edward Hill) for Upper James River (pp. 654, 627). Order for the burgesses of the Eastern shore to attend and give information as to several small rivers that would harbour an enemy's ships (p. 664). Captain Finch complaining of desertion of his men, ordered that the inhabitants of Norfolk and Princess Anne Counties be diligent to discover such deserters pursuant to the late proclamation, and that the Governor write to North Carolina to secure the arrest of deserters there (pp. 672–674). Ordered that Captain Fairfax have power to impress certain seamen (pp. 676, 677). Order for delivery of twenty-five barrels of powder to Governor Copley (p. 668). [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LXXXIV., pp. as cited.] |
| April 16. |
2,178. Minutes of Council of New York. Directions given for supplying the Archangel with bread by Colonels Bayard and Minivell, who offered their services. On the application of John Lawrence, his daughter-in-law was ordered to appear to answer for neglect to maintain her husband, a lunatic though possessing a
considerable estate of his and of her own. Order for a strict collection of the taxes imposed by the Assembly. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LXXV., pp. 310, 311.] |
| April 18. |
2,179. Journal of Lords of Trade and Plantations. Draft commission to Governor Fletcher for the Government of Pennsylvania and command of half of the Jersey militia read and referred to the Attorney General. |
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Jacob Mauritz heard as to his petition, and decision taken. |
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Petition from the Hudson's Bay Company for leave to send out a ship read, and ordered to be laid before the King. [Board of Trade. Journal, 7. pp. 95–98.] |
| April 18. |
2,180. Minutes of Lords of Trade and Plantations. That the Lord President be requested to recommend, on the petition of Jacob Mauritz (see No. 2128 I), that Governor Fletcher examine the matter, and if the ship were tried and condemned under the usual forms, and sold for the benefit of the privateers, then she shall be restored to petitioner, but if sold by Leisler or for his account, she shall then be reckoned the King's. ¾ p. [Board of Trade. New York, 4. No. 96; and Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LXIX., pp. 392, 393.] |
| April 18. |
2,181. Minute of Lords of Trade and Plantations. Requiring a scire facias to be issued against the proprietors of East and West New Jersey. Endorsed. 18 April, 1692. |
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Duplicate of foregoing. ½ p. [Board of Trade. New York, 4. Nos. 97, 98.] |
| April 18. |
2,182. Minutes of Council of New York. Order for a Committee to examine the petition of Edward Wislake against the taking from him of a derelict sloop by Captain Hicks, and for a letter to Captain Hicks to release two men taken from it, temporarily, to give evidence. Warrant for payment of Thomas Johnson's salary. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LXXV., pp. 311, 312.] |
April 18.
Jamaica. |
2,183. Samuel Bernard to [Earl of Nottingham?] I am ashamed at my neglect to write, especially when I learn how I have been misrepresented by Lord Inchiquin as factious and disaffected. I should have defended myself but for an attack of gout. I beg you again to read the account of the last dissolution of the Assembly sent by the Council. I intended it to have gone by the same ship as that which carried the Governor's letter reflecting so severely on the proceedings of the Assembly, not for any true reason, but because the Assembly would not leave him the sole management of things here and in England. I can clear the Council and Assembly of the imputation of leaving the King without any revenue, for they had a new bill ready to go up to Council granting revenue for their Majesties' lives and three or four years over, that the Government might not be left without support; though of course the Vacating Bill which voided all Acts of Lord Albemarle's Assembly would in my opinion have revived the twenty-one years' Act. Lord Inchiquin was obliged to admit that that Assembly was unduly elected, and though such practices may, as has been said, go on in England, there is no comparison between Assemblies of thirty-two
and of five hundred members. Governors at this distance assume an authority such as recommendatory letters have not and a sheriff dare not enforce, and the provost-marshal, who acts as returning officer, if not appointed by the Governor is always approved by him; nor are instruments wanting to them to prostitute the liberties of the country for the sake of gain, as was recently seen. I do not like to rake up the actions of the dead, least of all of distinguished persons, such as the Duke of Albemarle, but we may defend ourselves as to the last dissolution. We do not know the intrinsic reasons here nor what may have been written to you, but the matter stood thus: In the new revenue bill the Assembly would have levied a tax on negroes exported, and an extra-ordinary tax on Jews, which would have taken the money out of his private purse and put it into the public; and these were the things that touched his Lordship to the quick, especially when the Assembly seemed to decline to raise money for hire of sloops that the King's frigates might guard the Spanish Assiento. The Governor said openly that he had as lief the King sent him to the Tower as to Jamaica, and was so exasperated that he dissolved the Assembly in a passion, from which he never recovered either in body and mind. Yet he had every reason to be satisfied, for no Governor had ever so much money in so short a time,—£15,000 is well within compass—nor strove so earnestly to get it. You will see by his speech that he never learned the important doctrine, Live and let live. I shall make no reflection on his expedition against the French, which served only to draw the French down on us, nor on his keeping sloops trading at the public expense, on pretence of carrying letters to the Spanish Governor. Recrimination is the worst form of justification in my view and in Colonel Beckford's and Mr. Lawes's also. I hope you will observe that we were blamed for saying the same things more modestly in Council that we have now written to the Lords of Trade. I am quite ready to lay down all public office, which was never of my seeking. I had been Speaker of the Assembly under four Governors, and only entered the Council, which I had refused to do many times, at his earnest solicitation, for I am not ambitious. We have grateful recollection of the fair hearing given us by their Lordships about the Irish model of government in Lord Carlisle's time, and of the redress of the misdoings of the Duke of Albemarle. We hope no less that the King will now disallow the Acts illegally passed under the Duke of Albemarle. Governors are apt to think that nothing recommends them as much as when they must impose on the people; and they should not be encouraged by recognition of such methods as the Duke of Albemarle's, which can easily be repeated. Nor do we think that the King would desire it to be so. The maxim factum valet quod fieri non debet has no application in this case; or what are virtually edicts would become laws. Signed. Sam. Bernard. 3 pp. Endorsed. R. July 16, 92. [America and West Indies. 540. No. 19.] |
| April 18. |
2,184. Journal of House of Burgesses of Virginia. Bills for defence of the country, and for dividing Rappahannock County, presented. Petition from the people of King's and Queen's Counties reported on. |
| April 19. |
Bill to pay the Burgesses' expenses at the public charge thrown out. Bills for prosecution of negro criminals, for altering the day for Princess Anne County Court, for defence of the country and for dividing Rappahannock County, read a first time, also the bill to regulate Surgeons' accounts. Bill to direct the method of arrests ordered, also a bill for magistrates to provide themselves a seal, and a bill to regulate settlement. Order for the Lieutenant-Governor to be asked to authorise the impressment of freight for the military stores for Potomac. Bills concerning writs, for discovery of runaways, and for confirmation of laws, read a first time. Order for an account of receipts from the duty on furs and the impost on liquors. Order for an inspection of the copies of the old charters and grants brought from England by William Sherwood. |
| April 20. |
Copy of the grant of the Northern Neck, 1667, submitted to the House, and ordered to be referred to a committee for report. Bills for prosecution of negro criminals, for defence of the country, for dividing Rappahannock County, as to Princess Anne County Court, as to Surgeons' accounts, as to writs, and for confirmation of laws read a second time, and the amendments to certain of them reported. A conference with the Council as to the Ports Act agreed on. |
| April 21. |
William Hardidge and Lawrence Washington were returned for Westmoreland County, and the sheriff apologised for his former neglect. The seven bills aforesaid were passed and sent up to the Council. Information as to the pay due to the rangers requested. The Conferrers reported that the Council dissented to the address for enforcing the Ports Act. The Lieutenant-Governor's answer as to the rangers received. The Treasurer's accounts produced; and a message given that the House expects that each collector will give in his accounts. |
| April 22. |
Debate as to enforcement of the Ports Act. Adjourned to 25th. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LXXXV., pp. 867–877.] |
| April 18. |
2185. Minutes of the General Assembly of Virginia. Message from the Burgesses urging enforcement of the Ports Act. |
| April 19. |
Criticisms of the Council on the claims for money sent up by the Burgesses. A conference with the Burgesses as to the Ports Act requested. |
| April 20. |
The Conferrers reported that the Council did not agree with the Burgesses as to the Ports Act. |
| April 21. |
The Burgesses' address and the Lieutenant-Governor's answer as to the wages due to the rangers. Seven bills received from the Burgesses. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LXXXV., pp. 805–811.] |
| April 19. |
2186. Minutes of Council of Virginia. Order for the coast of the Eastern shore to be watched by Adam Hays as heretofore, in case of arrival of hostile ships, and that Hays be paid for the same (p. 666). Resolution of the Burgesses read requesting that the Government of Maryland be asked to order Indians in future to
give notice of their coming into the country. The Council concurred (pp. 669, 670). Sundry depositions regarding the ship Society sworn to (pp. 681, 682). Resolved to ascertain from the other Colonies whether the situation be such as to require the maintenance of the rangers throughout the winter (p. 689). [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LXXXIV., pp. as cited.] |
| April 20. |
2,187. Lords of the Treasury to the Queen. Transmitting the report of the Commissioners of Customs on two acts of Virginia (see No. 2,124). Signed. Godolphin; R. Hampden; Ste. Fox; Cha. Montague. ½ p. [America and West Indies. 637. No. 99; and Board of Trade. Virginia, 36. p. 161.] |
| April 20. |
2,188. Minutes of Council of Barbados. Order for issue of writs for election of a new Assembly. Ordered that the Council meet at the Secretary's house in future, paying him twenty pounds a year for a room. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. XII., pp. 287, 288.] |
April 20.
[Barbados.] |
2,189. Extract from a letter of Governor Kendall, to William Blathwayt. Since my last, Wrenn is dead, and Butler as eldest captain succeeds to the command of the squadron. I have lately received a flag of truce from Count de Blenac, and fourteen prisoners, from whom I learn that he has sent home all his large men-of-war. The Mary Rose is now the best ship that they have in those parts. The Jersey lies at Martinique, almost under water, whereby they hope to clear her of the plague, which has destroyed at least two hundred men; so that the French are now no more able to injure us than we them, all our ships being lamentably afflicted with sickness, which proves very mortal. I cannot tell you what I shall do with the squadron till I hear from General Codrington, to whom I have sent a state of our ships with an expression of Butler's opinion and my own, that owing to the condition of our own squadron and the weakness of the French, there is nothing to be done but to obey the Admiralty's instructions, viz. to return in the spring with the Barbados merchant fleet, sending two ships to the Leeward Islands (one to stay there, the other to convoy their fleet home), two to Jamaica for the like purpose, and leaving one here. So we shall have two men-of-war and a fire-ship to convoy home the fleet. This is the best plan I can think of, considering how unlikely it is for us to man them so as to be of service. I expect General Codrington's answer every hour, and by next ship you shall have a positive account of my resolutions. Copy. 2 pp. Endorsed. Copy to the Admty. 1 July, '92. [Board of Trade. Barbados, 4. No. 79.] |
| [April 20.] |
2,190. Abstract of the foregoing; with additional paragraphs as to the payment of the bills drawn by Governor Kendall. [Board of Trade. Barbados, 4. No. 80; and Col. Entry Bk., Vol. VIII., pp. 303, 304.] |
April 20.
Fort William
Henry. |
2,191. The Commander-in-Chief and Council of New York to the Governor of Maryland. We welcome your arrival. You will have learned from President Blakiston, and from the documents sent from hence, the proposals that have been made to you and to the rest of our neighbours as to the defence of Albany which is
a post of equal consequence to us all. The loose state of Government among our neighbours has retarded their motion to our aid, so that the whole burden lies upon this colony. Our Indians have lately been very unsteady, and we are forced to great expense in presents to keep them in amity. Virginia sent us about £100 to spend on the Indians on their behalf, and that is all the help of any kind that we have received so far from our neighbours; though since Governor Sloughter's arrival we have spent £600 or £700 in presents, besides the cost of keeping 300 fusiliers in garrison at Albany all through the winter until May next. By God's blessing Albany is still ours, but in such a languishing condition that all the inhabitants are ready to retire to the waterside. Trade is extinguished and alarms of the enemy incessant. We have been obliged to forbid the people to leave the town, which the enemy would rejoice to hear of. The City of Albany and the plantations by the river have lately been much damaged by a flood of rain, so that we are obliged to supply them with bread. We have represented the attitude of our neighbours towards us to their Majesties already, and shall do so again; and we beg your endeavours also. Your arrival has given us fresh hopes of help from Maryland, and we beg you to exert your authority on our behalf. We are now raising 200 fusiliers to reinforce Albany and want 300 more. We have applied to all our neighbours again for help, but expect little from New England, having no advice of Sir William Phips's arrival from Virginia. Signed. Rice. Ingoldsby, Jo. Dudley, Fred Flypse, Steph. van Cortlandt, Nic. Bayard, Wm. Smith, Gab. Minivell, Chid. Brooke, Will. Nicolls, Tho. Johnson, Jno. Lawrence. Copy. 2 pp. Endorsed. Recd. 6 Sept. 1692. [Board of Trade. New York, 4. No. 99.] |
| April 20. |
2,192. Minutes of Council of New York. The petition of the Constables of New York, for reward for collecting of taxes, referred to the Mayor and Corporation. A complaint against certain soldiers of misbehaviour referred to a Committee. |
| April 21. |
Order for fresh warrants in lieu of informal warrants for certain payments. Sarah Laurence appeared, and it was ordered that a guardian be appointed for her lunatic husband. Certain soldiers having been found guilty of thieving, the Commander-in-Chief promised to find out the men and have them punished. Captain Hicks refused to send the men to be examined as to the derelict sloop. Matthew Clarkson's accounts as Secretary presented, and payment ordered. |
| April 22. |
Order for payment of £50 to Dirck Wessells. Committee appointed to examine the accounts of the three companies of fusiliers. On the complaint of John Pendder, minister of Jamaica, the parishioners who refuse to pay his stipend were summoned before Council. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LXXV., pp. 312–314.] |
| April 20. |
2,193. Minutes of General Assembly of New York. Joseph Dudley signified to the Representatives that the provision made for the defence of the frontier would come to an end on 1st May, and that it was hoped that the other Colonies would contribute something to the cost. |
| April 21. |
The Representatives asked for a list of the forces at Albany, which was ordered to be furnished. |
| April 22. |
The Representatives signified that they could not proceed with business until this list and the account of incidental charges were furnished. |
| April 23. |
The accounts of the forces at Albany were sent to the Representatives. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LXXV., pp. 627–629.] |
| April 21. |
2,194. William Blathwayt to the Attorney General. Referring the draft Commission for the Governor of New York to take over the government of Pennsylvania and command half the militia of New Jersey, for his report. Draft. 1 p. [Board of Trade. New York, 4. No. 100.] |
| April 21. |
2,195. Record of proceedings of a General Court at James City, Virginia, in respect of the ship William and Mary. 7½ pp. Endorsed. Recd. 6 Sept., 1692. [America and West Indies. 637. No. 100.] |
| April 21. |
2,196. Minutes of Council of Virginia. Orders as to the ketch Crane, pleaded to have been wrongfully condemned (pp. 677–679). Sundry depositions sworn to regarding the ship Society. Charles Blanchevill's petition referred to William Byrd for report (p. 685). Information of Isaac Foxcraft as to illegal trading of the ship William and Mary, Thomas Meech; master (pp. 699–707). [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LXXXIV., pp. as cited.] |
| April 21. |
2,197. Minutes of Council of Jamaica. Draft address to the King approved. Order for Peter Beckford to deliver the Receiver-General's books to Edwin Edlyne. Orders for payments. Order for arrest of the boatswain of H.M.S. Swan for refusing to obey the captain. Order for the Pembroke to cruise to windward towards Hispaniola and report on the enemy's motions. Order for a letter to be prepared to the Lords of Trade and Plantations. [Board of Trade. Jamaica, 77. pp. 162–163.] |
| April 25. |
2,198. Minutes of Council of New York. Order for £40 to be paid to Mr. Newton on account, from the confissated estates of Leisler and his accomplices. Order for £20 to be allowed to the Secretary to prepare duplicates of the papers lost in transit to England. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LXXV., pp. 314, 315.] |
| April 25. |
2,199. Minutes of Council of Virginia. Orders as to the ketch Crane (pp. 679, 680). Order for all who have obtained grants of land by escheat in the Northern Neck since the proprietor's office was first set up, to furnish copies thereof to the sheriffs for transmission to the Council. Richard Whitehead granted an extension of time to furnish the documents required of him (pp. 687–689). Mr. Blathwayt's letter as to Thomas Jarvis's petition read (p. 686). |
| April 26. |
Order for Captain Finch to proceed with the Henry to Maryland to fetch provisions (p. 663). Order for the Attorney-General to consider what shall be done to Colonel John Custis and another for endeavouring to discourage evidence against Thomas Meech's ship, a vessel trading illegally (p. 664). |
| April 27. |
Letters written to Captain Finch and Captain Custis on yesterday's business approved (p. 663). Ordered that the distribution of powder in the counties shall not excuse any from providing themselves according to law; and that the counties shall give an account of the distribution and consumption thereof, which shall not be except on urgent occasion (pp. 668, 669). Evidence as to the ship Society sworn to (p. 684). |
| April 28. |
The burgesses of the Eastern shore attended and gave evidence as to the smaller rivers there. Ordered that no ships anchor therein except in Smith's Island River. Order for the Courts at Accomack and Northampton Counties to consider how the arrival of hostile ships shall be most readily discovered (p. 665, 666). Order for Captain Finch to ascertain if there be a fitting place for careening H.M.S. Henry, and that he give a written report of the roading of the said ship (pp. 674, 675). Agreement made with John Perry to carry despatches to New York and New England. New commissions issued to justices and sheriffs (p. 690). |
| April 29. |
On the application of John Lear and Charles Scarborough they were appointed Collectors of the penny per lb. duty, pending confirmation by the Commissioners of Customs (p. 657). Notice that all persons concerned in the salving of H.M.S. Wolf are left to their remedy at law (p. 681). Order for copies of the papers concerning the ship Society to be prepared against the meeting of Council in June next (p. 685). Thomas Milner appointed escheator of the lands to the south of James River. Warrants for sundry payments signed. Order for an audit on 21 June, and that Colonel Bacon's executors present his accounts thereat and give security for the payment of the balance due to the King. Resolved to move Mr. Blathwayt to procure the prevention of ships trading fraudulently with Maryland and to submit to him a question as to escheated lands. The Lieutenant-Governor recommended to the Council to consider the best way of improving the revenue from quit-rents. Order for Christopher Robinson, absent owing to his wife's death, to be sworn on the 21st June (pp. 691–695). [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LXXXIV., pp. as cited.] |
| April 25. |
2,200. Journal of the House of Burgesses of Virginia. Debate on the Ports Act. Resolved to request Mr. Blathwayt to procure the Royal assent thereto, explaining the reasons for the same. Order for a conference to be requested, to draw up an answer to Mr. Jeffries and a letter as to Mr. Blair's business. Message from the Lieutenant-Governor, agreeing to order the Collectors to deliver in their accounts on oath before him and Council: The House acquiesced. |
| April 26. |
Resolved that the salaries of the troops at the heads of the rivers be deposited with the sheriffs until directed by the Lieutenant-Governor to be paid. Conferrers appointed to draw up an answer to Mr. Jeffries. The bills came back from the Council with amendments. The House disagreed with the amendment to the bill for writs and desired a conference as to that for confirmation of laws. Resolved to address the King for leave to give £200 to the
Lieutenant-Governor; which being reported to the Council, the Lieutenant-Governor returned his thanks. |
| April 27. |
The amendments to the bill for confirmation of laws were agreed to. The Council having agreed as to the preparation of letters to Mr. Blathwayt, Mr. Blair and Mr. Jeffries, a Committee was appointed to meet them. Resolved to send £200 to Mr. Blathwayt for his expenses. |
| April 28. |
Bill for a public levy read thrice, passed and assented to by Council. Orders for sundry payments. Drafts of letters to the Archbishop of Canterbury and the Bishops of London and Worcester read and sent to Council. |
| April 29. |
The letter to Mr. Jeffries returned to the Council for amendment. The Council assented to the various payments. Letter to Mr. Blair agreed to. Letter to Mr. Blathwayt amended and approved. Addresses to the King of thanks, and for permission to give the Lieutenant-Governor a present. |
| April 30. |
The House attended the Lieutenant-Governor. [Col. Entry Bk. Vol. LXXXV., pp. 877–887.] |
| April 25. |
2,201. Minutes of the General Assembly of Virginia. The Burgesses' message requiring the Collectors to give in their accounts, and the Lieutenant-Governor's reply to the same. Message of the Lieutenant-Governor stating the Council's amendments to the various bills. The Burgesses' resolution as to the Ports Act agreed to, and conferrers appointed to meet them. |
| April 26. |
Criticisms of the Council upon sundry claims submitted to them by the Burgesses. The resolution of the Burgesses as to the payment of soldiers received. The Burgesses' message as to a present to the Lieutenant-Governor, wherein the Council concurred. |
| April 27. |
Six bills sent up by the Burgesses and concurred in by the Council. The Burgesses' orders for certain payments received and approved. |
| April 28. |
Several letters sent up by the Burgesses, and after amendment approved. |
| April 30. |
The Burgesses being summoned, the Speaker addressed the Lieutenant-Governor and Council; and the bills and addresses having been signed, the Lieutenant-Governor prorogued the Assembly. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LXXXV., pp. 813–833.] |
| April 27. |
2,202. Minutes of Council of Jamaica. Address to the King signed, to the following effect. We fear that we lie under your displeasure from the attempt of the last Assembly to annul the Acts of the Duke of Albemarle's Assembly, but our laws and rights were violently transgressed in the election of that Assembly, and we trust that you as the upholder of our rights will be favourable to us. Letter to the Lords of Trade and Plantations signed. also to William Blathwayt, and to Colonel Beeston and Mr. Heathcot (see Nos. 2203–2205). Resolved to allow the President £1,000 a year. Order for discharge of the boatswain of H.M.S. Swan on
his submission and on the intercession of his captain. [Board of Trade. Jamaica, 77. pp. 162–171.] |
April 27.
Jamaica. |
2,203. The President and Council of Jamaica to [Earl of Nottingham?]. We send the minutes of Council from 17 August, 1691 to 14 April, 1692. The Guernsey and Swan are careening, and as they are almost disabled by long stay in these parts we beg that they may be recalled and replaced by other ships. The Spaniards have made a vain attack on St. Domingo. From them we learn that a French fleet of eight men-of-war and one privateer are cruising to windward of us, and we have despatched a sloop to windward to watch for them. We hear that the laws made under the Duke of Albemarle's government are under consideration. We beg that they may not be confirmed until we have been heard by our counsel, who will show that the Assembly which passed them was illegally chosen. We have built a new line behind the Church on Port Royal and mounted eight guns thereon. Colonel James O'Brien having resigned the command of the forts, we have entrusted it to Colonel Peter Beckford. We beg that a new great seal may be sent to us. Signed. John White, John Bourden, Pe. Beckford, Sam. Bernard, John Towers, Andrew Orgill, Fra. Blackmore, Charles Knight, Thomas Sutton. 2 pp. Endorsed. R. 15 July, 1692. [America and West Indies. 540. No. 20; and Board of Trade. Jamaica, 53. pp. 45–46 and 77, pp. 165, 166.] |
| April 27. |
2,204. The same to William Blathwayt. We send the Minutes of Council from 17 August, 1691 to 14 April, 1692. Pray help us in obtaining postponement of submitting the Duke of Albemarle's laws to the royal decision, till we can be heard by counsel. [Board of Trade. Jamaica, 77. pp. 168, 169.] |
| April 27. |
2,205. The President and Council of Jamaica to William Beeston and Gilbert Heathcot. We send an address to the King and have asked for postponement of the submission of the Duke of Albemarle's laws to the King. We enclose depositions to show that most of the members of that Assembly were illegally elected. We send you £300 as a supply in carrying through this affair. [Board of Trade. Jamaica, 77. pp. 169, 170.] |
| April 27. |
2,206. Minutes of Council of New York. Orders for transmission of a signed Act to the Justices of Suffolk for collection of revenue. Order for commissioning two new Justices for King's County. Grant of land conditionally to Elias Doughty and Samuel Hoight. Order for payments to the gentlemen who advanced money for the troops at Albany. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LXXV., pp. 315–316.] |
| April 27. |
2,207. Minutes of General Assembly of New York. The Representatives disallowing some of the items in the accounts of the troops at Albany, a conference was held. The Council sent down a resolution offering a bounty of one piece of eight to every man who remains under arms at Albany for one month after the expiration of his term on 1st May. The Representatives approved. They also sent up a bill to raise 200 men for the defence of Albany. Bill read twice, and a conference requested as the money to be raised by the bill will be insufficient. |
| April 28. |
A money bill sent down for amendment, and a bill for destroying wolves read first time. |
| April 29. |
Report of the conferrers on the bill to raise troops approved, and the bill sent down to the Representatives for amendment. The Wolves Bill read twice more and passed. Proposal sent down to the Representatives for making the mounted militia take their turn of duty at Albany on foot. Address of the Representatives that officers of government may be ordered to ask moderate fees until the fees be duly regulated, was received. Bill for raising troops received with amendments and passed. Joint Committee agreed to, to enquire into the state of the revenue. The Lieutenant-Governor announced that he must go forthwith to Albany and asked the Representatives to promise credit for £500 or £600 for expenses, presents, etc; but few of the Representatives being present, they were able only to approve the principle and engage themselves to make it good. Adjourned to 16 August. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LXXV., pp. 629–635.] |
April 28.
Fort William
Henry. |
2,208. The Commander in Chief of New York to the Duke of Bolton. I have written to you by every opportunity, but one barquentine has been lost and another taken, with most of my packets. I am afraid that the miscarriage of some of these documents may do us disservice, as I hear there are evil instruments at home who have opportunity and impudence to lie without contradiction. I understand that several gentlemen have applied for this government; I beg your protection if any have contrived anything to my hurt during my absence. I have managed the Government here with great moderation, and begin to see the end of divisions and quarrels. Nothing could disturb our peace more than a change of Governors; the very news would give new life to the ignorant and factious mob which delights in the disorder which it conceives to be the necessary result of change. It is the opinion of the best men here that nothing would contribute more to the health of the Colony than that I should be confirmed as Governor. The Assembly is now sitting to provide for the reinforcement of Albany, a place at the head of the Hudson River for trade with the Indians. The Five Nations have always been our friends and have been a sore plague to the French in Canada, but they have grown detached and indifferent; no pains have been taken to preserve their friendship during the late trouble. We are put to great expense for presents to them. The French have spared no pains nor cost to traduce them, but find it of little use while Albany is in our possession; for from thence the Indians must be supplied, and whoever are masters of Albany will sway the Indians to their side. These Indians have their seat on the heads of the Delaware, Maryland and Virginia, and, if once our enemies, no man will dare go out of doors or plant, or live out of garrison; and the settlements are so much dispersed that they would be an easy prey. This Colony, which consists mostly of Hudson's River and Long Island, bears all the expense of presents to the Indians and the maintenance of Albany. None of our neighbours have given any aid, though the garrison is the safety and life of all. We applied to all of them as far as Virginia, but without success. Maryland pretended that it awaited the arrival of a new Governor. Virginia
wanted orders from England. Pennsylvania and the Jerseys knew that we must defend the place. New England is without government and galled by a serpentine enemy, the Penobscot Indians, who are said to have killed and carried away two thousand people since the revolution without loss of a man themselves. There was lately news of 140 killed and wounded at York on Piscattaway River. We beg you to intercede with the King for his orders to New England, Virginia, Maryland and Pennsylvania to assist us, and for the annexation of the Jerseys and of the territory from the Connecticut River, to this Colony. Signed. Rich. Ingoldesby. 2½ pp. Endorsed. Read 19 September, 1692. Printed in New York Documents III., 833. [Board of Trade. New York, 4. No. 101.] |
April 28
Whitehall. |
2,209. Order of the Privy Council. Referring the report of the Lords of the Treasury respecting exportation of bulk tobacco to Lords of Trade and Plantations for report. Signed. Rich. Colinge. ½ p. Endorsed. Read 27 June, 1692. Annexed, |
|
2,209. I. Lords of the Treasury to the Queen. 22 April, 1692. The Commissioners of Customs recommend that the Governors of Virginia and Maryland be instructed to propose to their Assemblies a law for the prohibition of the export of tobacco in bulk. Signed. Godolphin; R. Hampden ; Ste. Fox ; Cha. Montague. 1 p. Endorsed. Recd. 27 April, 1692. [America and West Indies. 637. Nos. 101, 101 I; and Board of Trade. Virginia, 36. pp. 173, 174.] |
| April 30. |
2,210. Order of Lords of Trade and Plantations. That if, on the arrival of the next West Indian fleet, the executors of Sir John Witham shew not good cause to the contrary, their appeal shall be dismissed. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. VIII., p. 274.] |
April 30.
James City. |
2,211. Address of the Council and Burgesses of Virginia to the King and Queen. For permission for Lieutenant-Governor Nicholson to accept a present of £200. Signed. William Cole, for the Council; Tho. Milner, Speaker. ½ p. Endorsed. Recd. 3 Feb., 92/3. [America and West Indies. 637. No. 102.] |
April 30.
James City. |
2,212. Address of the Council and Burgesses of Virginia to the King and Queen. Thanks for supply of military stores. Signed. Fr. Nicholson, William Cole, for the Council, Tho. Milner, Speaker. ½ p. Endorsed. Recd. 9 Aug., 1692. [America and West Indies. 637. No. 103; and Board of Trade. Virginia, 36. p. 156.] |
| April 30. |
2,213. Copies of the oath of the King's Collector in Virginia and of William Cole's bond to execute the office. 2 pp. [America and West Indies. 637. No. 104.] |
