|
Jan. 2.
Whitehall. |
723. Instructions of the Lords Proprietors of Carolina to Captain Halstead, in 10 articles. Their Lordships received his despatches both from Bermudas and New York, and are extremely well satisfied with his management of their affairs. Having taken new resolutions concerning his stay abroad he will govern himself by these instructions. If these instructions meet him at Barbadoes, and he has a sufficient freight of passengers or goods for Carolina, he will sail to Ashley River. There he will take in the carriages sent by Captain Jeffryes for the guns appointed for Providence, and sail thither. If not sufficient freight at Barbadoes to sail direct for Providence. To deliver to Captain John Wentworth his commission, and having inquired as to the fittest men to be the Lords Deputies, he is to fill up the blanks, Lord Ashley having formerly deputed John Robinson, &c. (see ante, No. 517, 1st May 1671), and continue the same if not unfit. Having intentions for a better supply and settlement to inform himself of the particulars herein set forth as to the people, commodities of the islands, &c., &c. Concerning the prohibition of cutting Braziletto wood and coasting for ambergris, spermacetti, and wreck goods, and the sale to the Lords of what is obtained by those licensed for freight of the ships. Having despatched all things in Providence to load with Braziletto or other commodities fit for the London market, sail to Ashley River to complete lading with the choicest stocks of cedar squared, and come directly hither. To take order with Mr. West that a ship's lading of said cedar be ready for him. To make what discoveries he can in the rivers and countries thereabouts. Signed by Ashley, Craven, G. Carteret, and P. Colleton. In Locke's handwriting. [Col. Entry Bk., XX., pp. 74, 75.] |
| Jan. 2. |
724. Warrant to Sir Thomas Modyford. Whereas two Dutch ships were during the late war taken by one Gallion, a privateer, in November 1664, and condemned in the Court of Admiralty in Jamaica, and the produce, 1,100l., having been deposited in his hands, forthwith to cause said sum of 1,100l. to be paid over to Sir Charles Lyttleton. 3/4 p. [Dom. Entry Bk., Chas. II., Vol. XXXIV., p. 132 đ.] |
Jan. 2.
Falmouth,
Antigua. |
725. Minutes of the Council of Antigua. Verdict of a jury sworn, and charged by the Governor on the information and request of George Hawkins, attorney on behalf of the King; that all lands of latter grant and qualified as in the Act for encouraging the settling of this island dated the 11th April 1668, which are not settled according to said Act, are and ought to be forfeited by the pretended settlers and revert to the King. 1/2 p. [Col. Papers, Vol. XXV., No. 55*.] |
Jan. 8.
Port Royal. |
726. Minutes of the Council of Jamaica. The Council desired the Governor to treat with Captain Jno. Morris or some other convenient person and vessel to undertake the reducing of the privateers at Isla de Vaca. Returns of the several elections of Assembly men brought in by the Marshal, viz., Parish of St. Katherine:—Humphrey Freeman, Esq., for St. Jago; Cary Helyer, Esq., for the 16 mile walk and liberties; Major Jno. Colebeck for Bowers. Clarendon:—Captain Samuel Long and Captain Gifford Pennant. St. Thomas:—Captain Samuel Bache and Nicholas Lycence. St. Elizabeth:—Captain William Parker and Francis Dickinson. St. David:—Captain Wm. Rives and Captain Edw. Stanton. Northside:—Captain Joachim Haynes and Captain Richard Guy. St. John:—Captain Geo. Reid and Timothy Dod. St. Andrew:—Major Samuel Barry and Captain Richard Brayn. Port Royal:—Reginald Wilson and Anthony Swimmer, Esqs. Certificate annexed to each of the returns that all the freeholders certified that the member was fairly elected by the majority of voices. 1671, Dec. 12. On petition of Francis Harrison, Attorney, that all bonds taken in the King's name might be sued by any of the attorneys indifferently. Upon reading the patent of Edmond Duck, Esq., his Majesty's Attorney-General, that by said patent the sole privilege of suing all such bonds properly belongs to the Attorney-General. Ordered, that henceforth no process be issued against any debtor or indictments, &c., where the King is a party or his name used, unless the Attorney-General's hand be to them. Whereas on the oaths of Reginald Wilson, Robert Hewyt, and David Gomer, it appeared that the ship Prince of Orange, Captain Bouden Claus, owner and commander, was, in the time of the late Governor, seized and confiscated as foreign built, according to the Act of Navigation, and that the King's dues were satisfied, but by reason of the negligence of the register and other officers, there was never any record made of all these proceedings in the Court of Admiralty, so that the Captain is still in danger of having another seizure made; ordered, that said ship is and ought to be free in all his Majesty's ports, and the judge, admiral, commanders, and captains of his Majesty's frigates, and all others, are required to believe these attestations as sufficient testimonial of the freedom and naturalization of said vessel. 5 pp. [Col. Entry Bk., No. XXXIV., 271–276.] |
| Jan. 11. |
727. Minutes of the Council of Antigua. Ordered, that whereas the Act of the 11th April 1668, for encouragement of the settling of the island, gives to every labouring person 10 acres of land to be put on within six months after the date of his warrant which has not been performed, all land granted for the future shall within six months be actually possessed and settled, and so continue (unless in case of war or mortality), and no person shall alienate the same but to those that shall continue the settlement; and on non-performance of these conditions that such lands be given to others; provided that this order extend not to lands already granted. Ordered, that no complaint be tried at the monthly courts or courts of complaints for any sum exceeding 500 lbs. of sugar or tobacco, and that 14 days after any such complaint execution issue against the defendant's personal estate, if any, if not, on their bodies; appointing jury courts to be held in Falmouth and at St. John's. That the firing of two guns at night and three in the day be an alarum, upon which all persons from 12 to 60 years of age are, on penalty of a grievous fine, to repair with their arms well fixed, and at least a dozen shot of powder and ball, to the places appointed, and there remain till dismissed by a field officer of the regiment. No persons to remove out of his company, without certificate from their Captain, on penalty of forfeiting 100 lb. tobacco. Rules and orders to be observed for the despatch of suits in the Court of Chancery. 3 pp. [Col. Papers, Vol. XXV., No. 55.*] |
Jan. 11.
Montserrat. |
728. Deposition of Wm. Caswill, Master of the ketch Return, of Boston, in New England, taken before Col. Nathl. Reade, Justice of the Peace. Having been forced off the coast of New England to the island of Nevis by extremity of weather, and in great want of provisions (having been forced to eat rats), and the ketch leaky, on the 27th October deponent desired leave of Sir Chas. Wheler to relieve himself and men and repair the ketch, on which he was ordered to enter his ketch in the Secretary's office; this he did, but being advertised that there was no safety for him to land any goods for fear of seizure, he repaired to the Secretary, Humphrey Garland, who advised him the only way to prevent the Acts of Parliament was by having freedom of trade, and that he should suffer his vessel to be seized, and then he could have her again for 40l.; but deponent would not so far betray his trust. The Secretary then told him he could seize the ketch, and advised him to come before Sir Chas. Wheler, who said he understood that the Secretary had put him in a way, and bid him go about his business. On the 3rd January deponent waited on Col. Russel (Sir Chas. being there), who advised him to present a petition from his men declaring their sufferings and the condition of the ketch; which he did, but Sir Chas. would give no hopes of other relief, and refused leave to land his goods till he could get the ketch repaired or unload them on board some other vessel in the road, but gave him leave to depart the island. Endorsed, "19 June 1672. Recd from Mr. Syms who came from Montserrat 6 April last." 2 pp. [Col. Papers, Vol. XXVIII., No. 2.] |
Jan. 13.
Jamaica. |
729. Sir Thos. Lynch to Joseph Williamson. Encloses copies of what he wrote to Lord Arlington three weeks since. Describes his care in sending home Sir Thos. Modyford prisoner, and at same time sending for the King some cocoa and vanillas to Mr. Chiffins, and a most admirable derotero (sea chart) of the South Seas. A great ship in company with Sir Thos. Modyford's, parted with him in a storm; false report that he was forced into New England, but hopes he is arrived without so tedious a voyage as Col. D'Oyley had. The Assistance gone to Cuba to buy flesh; of the Welcome has heard nothing, but on her return will send her for England with Admiral Morgan ; will keep the great frigate till another comes to relieve her, for without they will neither keep the peace nor defend themselves from pirates or from the insults of their neighbours. Has lately got in two privateers, one his men left at Isla de Vaca, because she would not rob an English sloop which they thought had 15,000 pieces of 8 aboard. Has hired a frigate to go thither with orders to reduce them. Could not get faithful men enough at the Point to make the frigate fit to reduce the pirate by force, for he is a good sailor and has 90 desperate rogues. Another with as many "sent to article" with Lynch, but a ship he sent out frightened him off the coast. Sends pardons, promises, and menaces by all ships, and has advised the Governors of America that it is the King's pleasure the pirates should be seized if they come into their ports; and this he let them know, because receiving is that only which encourages thieving. This has made the most reasonable of them leave it, "but this cursed trade has been so long followed, and there is so many of it, that like weeds or Hidras they spring up as fast as we can cut them down." If these means effect nothing, intends to buy and fit for the King a small vessel to cruize with the Assistance, with orders to hang all these cursed rogues which they can take. If they cannot be absolutely suppressed, it will reflect on the King's honour, interrupt the trade of the island, and ruin his little designs for a trade with the Spaniards, for that can only be done in small vessels. If his Majesty's revenue here would hold out or if he could be paid in England this would be more easy. Has paid the freight of a frigate that went to Cartagena, and is now sending the same at 90l. per mensem to the Isle of Vache, and a great ship to Campeachy to demand satisfaction for negroes, plate, and money taken out of a pink. Has sent for the depositions to send to his Lordship by this ketch. If the Spaniards may take out of our vessels what they call plunder or Spanish goods, then shall we lose as much by the peace as they did by the war. Hopes the next vessel will bring his Lordship's directions about cutting logwood, which he still connives at as hugely advantageous and necessary to load the vessels and employ the privateers. The Bristolman seized at Tortugas by the French frigates was released by the Governor in spite of them, but hopes his Lordship will take notice of the orders of the French King to his admirals, copies of which he has sent by two opportunities. Has written often and very largely to the Lord President and the Secretary of our Council, but never heard whether his letters are received. The beginning of next month the Assembly meets, and the laws will be corrected and sent home for his Majesty to sign. Will do his utmost to improve what little revenue his Majesty has here by easy arts, that people may not be discouraged. Knows not what people write, but here they seem mightily satisfied; the government and trade are more settled and infinitely more flourishing than ever, so that he dare aver that in a very few years by peace and easy government this island will be worth all the King has in America. Three days ago 400 negroes were bought at 22l. per head, believes 1,500 would have sold.
"If the company sets up, and that you have any negroes, let me be your factor. I know I shall do it cheaper and I think much better than my predecessor." The men-of-war have sold amongst the Spaniards 60 or 80 negroes at 150 and 200 pieces of 8, which makes a great noise, and will draw abundance of trade and negroes hither, though there is no possibility of doing anything, the Governors are so fearful and the Grillos factors so careful. The Commissioners are returned from settling the government on the north side; they have enrolled 350, all old soldiers, and say the country is better than this. Esquire Peirce of Barbadoes, who has been here to see the island, goes away hugely satisfied and designs six months hence to return. Chr. Rendar has bought a plantation and gone for Surinam, intending immediately to return if the Dutch serve him not as they did Major Banister. All the Surinamers are well settled, and there is but one dead. Again thanks him for the written and printed Gazettes, and begs him to continue to send them through Sir C. Lyttleton or C. Bragge, of Green Court, Leadenhall, for every week almost comes a ship from London this way. Endorsed, Received 13 March, 4 pp. [Col. Papers, Vol. XXVIII., No. 3.] |
Jan. 14.
St. Jago. |
730. Minutes of the Council of Jamaica, On petition of Francis Hudson, of Port Royal, for setting aside an order of Council made in the time of Sir Thos. Modyford, whereupon an execution was superseded upon a judgment obtained against Capt. Edw. Collier for false imprisonment; it is the opinion of the Council that the former order continue of force, Capt. Collier not having exceeded the intention of the Major General's warrant. Whereas several persons upon executing military orders have been sued at common law, and the jury through malice have given inordinate damages, to their great loss and the discouraging of all others to perform their duty; ordered, that all questions upon the execution of military orders be referred to the regimental courtmarshal or the Governor and Council, and all judges are required not to suffer any of that nature to be brought to any trial in their common law court. 2 pp. [Col. Entry Bk., XXXIV., 276, 277.] |
Jan. 15.
Exeter House.
Shaftesbury
Papers. |
731. Lord Ashley to his very affectionate friend Mr. West. We being not yet come to a full resolution about ordering our joint plantation upon the public stock further than that he should go on to clear the ground and plant provisions where he first began, has sent this bearer, Mr. Man, to be hereafter either employed in our public plantation or else to be an overseer in Ashley's own private plantation; in the meantime to take Man into his care and give him accommodation upon Ashley's account. In Locke's handwriting. [Shaftesbury Papers, Section IX., Bundle 48, No. 55, p. 106.] |
Jan. 15.
Shaftesbury
Papers. |
732. Lord Ashley to his very affectionate friend Maurice Mathews. Has sent the bearer, Mr. Man, with a design to employ him there, and 'tis not unlikely he may be an assistant to Mathews in the management of Lord Ashley's private plantation, which he designs having, the care and government of which Ashley intends to trust to Mathews as chief overseer. Desires they will consider together about the soil, situation, &c. of the land to be taken up for him. In Locke's handwriting. [Shaftesbury Papers, Section IX., Bundle 48, No. 55, p. 107.] |
Jan. 16.
Jamaica. |
733. Sir Thos. Lynch to Joseph Williamson. Would not have given him further trouble by this occasion, but that yesterday arrived a captain of the garrison of St. Jago with letters from that Governor and him of Havannah, complaining that divers vessels of ours and the French had taken a vessel and two towns and done abundance of cruelties on the north side of Cuba, where the people are all in arms, expecting the French and English pirates from the Isla de Vaca, where they understood were 18 vessels.He answered that the vessels and men that did the mischief were all French, and were they English they were rebels, and not the King's subjects, for if I could catch them I should hang them for pirates and they might do the same; likewise told him how impossible it was to take any without great frigates, but if they would furnish him with barcaluengos, he should soon clear the coast; and that he had sent a frigate to Isla de Vaca to break those designs, but did not understand there was more than one vessel there of eight guns. Has treated and complimented this captain, so that he goes away hugely satisfied, and the more for that he has imprisoned one C. Morris, commander of the Lilly frigate, that took, in August, a canoe belonging to the pilot of this barque. Intends the frigate shall be tried in the Admiralty, but the captain he must use some mercy with, for he came in on a promise of forgiveness, and alleges he knew not of the peace. However, will find a way to satisfy the Spaniard before he goes that they shall not have so much cause to complain of us as he may see by the enclosed we have of them, for the ship that took the pink was a merchant, and the pink carried the notification of the peace. Intends next week to send a ship to demand satisfaction, for it imports us infinitely that they do not take the liberty to carry our ships into their ports and take out what they call Spanish goods, for the truth is, the produce of this island does not freight one quarter of those ships that go hence laden. And this Governor of Campeachy, confessing he had detained 300 marks of plate, 600 pieces of 8, and two negroes, and remitted the owners into Spain for justice, thinks himself obliged to stir in it, and hopes his Lordship will do the same in England. Encloses,
|
|
733. I. Depositions of several merchants and gentlemen that embarked at Jamaica on the pink Peter, bound for New York, who were taken about August 25th last by Capt. Candelero, of the St. Francisco, and forcibly carried into Campeachy; where they were imprisoned, although they brought advice the Peace was published in this island, and had taken from them the sums hereafter mentioned. Sworn before Sir Thos. Lynch, Lieut.-Governor of Jamaica, 13 January 167 1/2. |
|
|
|
£ |
s. |
d. |
|
John Patten, merchant, lost in money, goods, and plate to the value of |
- |
300 |
0 |
0 |
|
Simon Reynolds, gentleman - |
- |
90 |
12 |
0 |
|
Nathaniel Radcliffe, gentleman - |
- |
84 |
0 |
0 |
|
Charles Cogan, merchant and owner of the pink - - - |
- |
1,000 |
0 |
0 |
|
Richard Cook, merchant - |
- |
390 |
0 |
0 |
|
John Pate, merchant - - |
- |
146 |
18 |
0 |
|
Robert Wendall, merchant - |
- |
199 |
7 |
6 |
|
John White, merchant - - |
- |
570 |
12 |
6 |
|
Richard Elliot, merchant - |
- |
90 |
0 |
0 |
|
Thos. Wayte, master of the pink |
- |
40 |
0 |
0 |
|
|
|
£2,911 |
10 |
0 |
|
One Capt. Cubit, and others who sustained great losses, have not brought in their particulars. Together 3 1/2 pp. [Col. Papers, Vol. XXVIII., Nos. 4, 4. I.] |
Jan. 16
Old Harbour,
Jamaica. |
734. Major James Banister to Sec. Lord Arlington. Cannot conceal the great joy and honour his Lordship's letter has given him. Is extremely glad also that his Majesty is so well pleased with his narrative and proceedings. Is sorry his forgetfulness omitted to give account of the families and persons he brought in the two ships from Surinam, but in a letter soon after to his Lordship intimated that there were 105 families and the whole number 517 persons, with which the two ships were so filled that they had scarce room to lodge in. Discharged the ships the same day five months after they were employed, since which Capt. Ayler, of the America, has made a voyage to New England and Barbadoes, and returned. Begs his Lordship's good word for the continuance of his Majesty's favour, and, lest his last may have miscarried, desires his favour that what is due of his salary may be received by his brother Wightwick, which will do him a great kindness in stopping the force of some debts now ready to claim discharge in England; for he has greatly indebted himself to purchase land near the town the better to attend the duties of his commission, besides the loss of his provisions and goods in his own vessel. 1 p. [Col. Papers, Vol. XXVIII. No. 5.] |
| Jan. 17. |
735. Sec. Lord Arlington to Sir Charles Wheler or other Officer commanding-in-chief in the Lecward Isles. Encloses his Majesty's orders (see ante, No. 683) for the return of all merchantmen from those islands, which is of much importance in the unsettled state things are in Europe. 1/4 p. [Dom. Entry Bk., Chas. II., Vol. XXIV., p. 56.] |
Jan. 20.
Charles Town,
upon
Ashley River.
Shaftesbury
Papers. |
736. Jos. Dalton to Anthony Lord Ashley. His Lordship's acceptance of some former stammerings has wafted the oblation of his humble thankfulness, and encouraged him to present a further essay of affairs in this place. Will now glance upon the nature and properties of the country, which he did not dare to attempt before. Their winter will not allow sugar canes or cotton to grow for a commodity, for between November and February are several small frosts, and one day this month ice an inch thick, yet he has English peas now growing. Yet it is excellent for English grain. The commodities which will be certain and profitable in this place will be wine, oil, silk, indigo, tobacco, hemp, flax, and some say ginger, some roots, Barbadians say, are as good as they have seen. Of indigo they can assure themselves two or three crops or cuttings a year, and as likely as any in Barbadoes. Cannot question the growth of a good sort of tobacco, which may surpass the fame of Virginia, but conceives most worthy of their thoughts, wine, oil, and silk, which may be propagated to great perfection and profit, which the land seems to promise by fostering so many old vines and mulberries for want of better. By the report of some discoveries up Wandoe River compared with the relation of the Southern and the Northern Indians, the place wherein they are settled, Edisto, Cambohee, St. Helen's, and places near bordering upon the sea, are all broken lands and islands apart from the main; further up the river the land is much better, and timber better. A river next St. Helen's is called by the Indians Westoebou, signifying the Enemies River, a sort of Indians at enmity with ours. But of all places cannot find to exceed this for security, and which will entertain a very great number of people with very good land. Hopes their Lordships will not condemn them for seating Charles Town so near the river's mouth, it being advised for their better safety. Cannot reasonably believe the world is asleep or that the Spaniard has forgot his sullenness. About 600 acres between Ashley River and Wandoe River left vacant for a town and fort, by direction of old Governor Sayle. Description and advantages of that situation. It is the only sanctuary of refuge in the country, being the very centre of their settlements, and gives encouragement to all these rivers equally upon an alarm to be there secured, for the settlements being thick round about it, it cannot be surprised. Remarks upon this town which he does not think will be the only town of trade on these rivers. If the porch be so beautiful, what must the temple be? If the broken land be good certainly the main land much more. Refers to Dr. Woodward's relation, and to the Indians whose furniture were mulberry cakes and dies of divers sorts as well as skins. Some very ready and earnest to follow the discovery, but have been suppressed, it being thought that too much variety causes surfeiting, so begs their Lordships to command a cessation of remote discoveries. It may be dangerous to follow the fancies of roving heads, so proposes that a skilful engineer or surveyor-general be sent to modellize and set them to rights. The trouble Captain Sullivan hath put this colony into by his ignorance, whose ill fate is to profess much and to perform nothing. Remarks upon the office of Surveyor-General, which he considers necessary. All sorts of people are encouraged to come to them, and places should be ready for them to sit down in; the advantages to the colony of such preparation instead of seeking out their own places. By their records it appears that 337 men [71 women, who seem to be omitted here], 62 children or persons under 16 years of age, is the full number of persons arrived in this country [total, 470] since the first fleet out of England to this day, whereof 43 men, two women, three children are dead, and 16 absent [total, 64], so as there now remain 268 men able to bear arms [? a mistake for 278 men], 69 women, 59 children or persons under 16 years of age [total, 406]. Have laboured under the want of provisions, but are very hopeful this crop may afford something of a store, so they may set forward in the husbandry of vines and olive trees. Have plenty of divers sorts of grapes, but does not think they will ever be reclaimed from a kind of harshness when pressed. Recommends good vines and olives with persons who know the true husbandry of them to be sent out, also almonds and date stones Have been at a loss in the practise of Palatinates out of England and Wales, and questions have arisen in whose name writs and indictments of treason and felony should be made. Requests his Lordship's directions. 5 1/4 pp. With seal. [Shaftesbury Papers, Section IX., Bundle 48, No. 87.] |
Jan. 22.
Virginia. |
737. Governor Sir Wm. Berkeley to (the Committee for Trade and Plantations). Gave their Lordships an account of this place by his brother Culpeper according to their commands. Desires his Majesty's commands to the Consuls of Naples and Sicily to send some men skilful in the making of silk into England. We will bear the charge of their transport and annual wages as soon as they arrive in England. If they had but six able men to teach them the right way of feeding worms and winding silk they would in a short time make an unexpected progress in it. Hopes soon to give an account of a happy discovery to the west, but dares not much boast of it until he has been an eye witness of it. 1 p. [Col. Papers, Vol. XXVIII., No. 6.] |
Jan. 23.
Whitehall. |
738. Warrant to the Attorney-General. To prepare a Bill for the King's signature containing a revocation of Sir Chas. Wheler's commission as Governor of the Leeward Islands, &c. See the Draft Revocation dated 20th December 1671, ante, No. 699. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. XCIII., 43, 44.] |
| Jan. 23. |
739. Minutes of the Assembly of Barbadoes. A packet received from Gentlemen Planters in London containing duplicates of their and Lieut.-Col. Thornburgh's letters to the Assembly of the 10th and 15th June last, and copies of the transactions of the Committee there in February, March, April, May, and June 1671, and letter of September 7, 1671 [all of which will be found abstracted]. 1/2 p. [Col. Entry Bk., No. XIII., 94.] |
Jan. 24.
Whitehall. |
740. Warrant to the Attorney-General. To prepare a Bill for the King's signature to pass the Great Seal containing a commission for Lieut.-Col. Wm. Stapleton to be Governor of the Leeward Islands. See the Draft Commission dated 20 Dec. 1671, ante, No. 699. [Col. Entry Bks., Vol. XCIII., 40–43, and XCV., 94–107.] |
| Jan. 24. |
741. Commission to Lieut.-Col. Wm. Stapleton to treat with the French Commissioners for restoring his Majesty's subjects to their lands, &c. in St. Kitts. See the Draft Commission dated 20 Dec. 1671, ante, No. 702. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. XCIII., 44.] |
Jan. 27.
Jamaica. |
742. Sir Thos. Lynch to Joseph Williamson. Has never had anything from the Council and but one letter from his Lordship and Williamson; expects another with the greatest impatience, because the last promised his Lordship's order about the woodcutting in the Bay of Campeachy. Has written by all occasions. Hopes Sir Thos. Modyford is got safe home, and that his own conduct in that affair is not disapproved of. Refers to the complaint of the Governor of St. Jago of the burning of two towns and carrying away of women, and other cruelties on the north side of Cuba (see ante, No. 733).These pirates are all French, some of whom have had English commission, but they are such sailers and draw so little water that it is impossible for the King's frigates to come up with them. The Spanish captain went away a week since hugely satisfied, for they treated and presented him very liberally, because he was the first there since the Peace; and to oblige him more, paid his pilot 700 pieces of 8 for some tobacco the Lilly took from him in August. This small frigate Lilly went out with Admiral Morgan, and coming up from Chagres put into Caimanos, where her Commander Norman, left her for a wreck at a time when one Capt. Jo. Morris cast away his ship there; with what he saved Morris fitted up the Lilly, for which. he had half given him by Sir James Modyford, who is attorney for the owners, took in 30 or 40 privateers, and went for the South Keys of Cuba, where he took a peragua laden with tobacco, kept the men prisoners, tormented the master, and kept the tobacco. After this his men would have taken an English dogger boat, which they thought had 15,000 pieces of 8 in her, but he preventing them they mutinied and left him at the Isla de Vaca, so he came down hither. But before he came confessed his men had constrained him to take the peragua, and was assured of pardon, and to make his word good paid the Spaniards himself and sent 100 pieces of 8 to him that is lamed. Thought it just to have both captain and ship tried in the Admiralty, where both were condemned for piracy, but has pardoned the captain again under the seal of the island, and ordered Sir Jas. Modyford to pay 44l. and take the owners' half of the frigate, but he would not meddle with her any more; so has fitted and manned her for the King's service, and put in the same Capt. Morris, because he is half owner, a very stout fellow and good pilot, and will not turn pirate. He has only 10 of the King's, seamen, because he goes to pick up straggling privateers to Leeward. The Assistance is come from Trinidad in excellent condition, and the men much satisfied with their new officers; she sails to-morrow, but has been forced to fit her with things to the value of 150l., for which he will charge a bill on the Commissioners. Expects the Welcome from windward every day for a Dutchman in Port Mornzit tells him she was at Curaçoa six weeks since. This Dutchman was driven down here by the weather; he had on board some 38 negroes, almost all starved, so has given him leave to sell as many as will refit his ship. Intends to fit the Welcome for England; Admiral Morgan comes on her. Has advice that one P. Johnson, with 90 desperate English pirates that lately took the Spanish frigate he is on, is now careening in the South Cayes of Cuba, and likewise one of the French pirates that did the mischief on Cuba; so orders the Assistance, America, Lilly, and Floaty Pink and sloop, to sail to-morrow, and Capt. Beeston has orders to burn the ship and make examples of all these obstinate thieves. If he knew how to support the charge of a frigate or two should soon bring them to better terms, so he bid the Spanish captain propose it to the Governor of Cuba, for it was not to be thought that the King was to be at all the charge, when they only have all the profit. The Assistance and America anchor at C. de Cruz, while the Lilly Pink, and sloop search the Cayes and destroy what they can of these thieves; then the Assistance returns hither, but the America and Lilly go for the Bay of Campeachy. The America is to demand satisfaction for above 3,000l. detained and stolen from the Pink (see ante, No. 733), to protect our merchants from pirates, receive the men who are left up and down the small islands, and reduce by force all privateers she can come up with. The Lilly goes to a small island called Triste, where the pirate Yhallahes put on shore and disarmed 30 or 40 English that would have had him come to this port. Had a petition from these people a fortnight since, how they were ready to perish, and when she has taken them in, she and the America are to endeavour to find and destroy this and all other pirates. There is a report that this Yhallahes, under English colours, has taken five or six vessels that were cutting logwood at the Cape, and intends to carry them to the Spaniards to make his peace. Had Lynch order for it, thinks he could manage this wood cutting, which is of infinite import both to the trade of this island and the customs of England, so that the Spaniards should be less aggrieved. "That I may not offend, I would beg you once more for God's sake to move my Lord in this and what else may be of moment, and be pleased more frequently to give me his Lordship's orders when he is not pleased to write them himself, or let me know whether I must not apply myself to, or follow the orders of my Lord President Sandwich, or Mr. Secretary Slingesby." Lieut. Ardry has behaved himself well this voyage, and under this discreet Commander will learn and do better. Endorsed, R. Ap. 22. 4 pp. [Col. Papers, Vol XXVIII, No. 7.] |
Jan. 28.
Jamaica. |
743. Sir Thos. Lynch to Sir Chas. Lyttleton. Refers to his letter to Williamson. Has once heard from him and his Lordship, but never from "our Council," only from Mr. Broucard, nor ever a syllable from Mr. Wrenn, whom he has troubled and shall trouble on all occasions. The Assistance came from Trinidad. Begs him tell Williamson (?) what he knows of Beeston, who is hugely improved, and "a better artist than Hubbard." Are now in as much fear of the pirates as formerly of the Spaniards.The condemnation and commissioning of the Lilly, and sailing of the Assistance, America, Lilly, pink and sloop after the pirates. Sends Robert Hewett to demand satisfaction at Campeachy for 3,000l. taken out of the Pink. In this has been at extreme charge, for it imports them much to declare against such arbitrary proceedings. Hopes Lord Arlington will appear in it at London. Prays him to press his Lordship for order about logwood cutting; if he had order to countenance it, could make it hugely profitable to English trades, and would take care to make England the storehouse of the logwood for all Europe, which may be worth 100,000l. per annum to the trade and Customs. Has furnished "this gentleman" with "considerations" on the subject, for Sir Chas. to make use of, if this affair should be sur le tapis. Beseeches him to let him know "whether our President or Secretary must not give me orders when they are pleased to write." Had like to have had a sloop of negroes stolen out of the very harbour, and abundance of people run away in small boats to the Cays of Cuba, where two great privateers are; and this is the reason he sends all those vessels after them. They are all well "and painting fine things which the King, Sir—, and you must shortly see." Thursday the Assembly meets. He would wonder to see what statesmen they are growing, and how the fear of the 4 1/2 per cent. makes the people resolve to do nothing at all. But if they will not do what he thinks is for the King's and public interest, will do nothing of what they judge is for theirs; so doubts they will part re infectam. Has ordered Beeston to write to Mr. Wrenn, and supposes he does so this day. Endorsed, Sir T. Lynch's letter to Sir Ch. Lyttleton, Jan. 28, '72. 2 pp. [Col. Papers, Vol. XXVIII., No. 8.] |
Jan. 31.
Whitehall. |
744. Instructions to Lieut.-Col. Wm. Stapleton, Governor of the Leeward Island. See the Draft Instructions dated 20th December 1671, ante, No. 700. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. XCIII., 45–47.] |
Jan. 31.
Whitehall. |
745. Instructions to Lieut.-Col. Wm. Stapleton, Governor of the Leeward Islands, for determining differences. See the Draft Instruction, December, 1671, ante, No. 707. [Col. Entry Bks., Vol. XCII., 456–465, and Vol. XCIII., 47–49.] |
Shaftesbury
Papers. |
746. Abstract of letters from Carolina in the handwriting of John Locke.
"Act of Parliament for the payment of the Lords Proprietors."
S. Bull to [Lord Ashley]. 70 persons from Barbadoes and New York come to settle, and others to view the country. The New York people planted on a creek 8 miles from Charles Town, nearer the mouth of Ashley River. The rivers generally run through marshes which are not unhealthy. Great numbers inclined to come from New York, because of their taxes and hard winter. They are rich and industrious, willing to settle in towns. The air agrees better with northern than southern comers. Several people ready to remove from Bermudas when this crop is in, if they can have passage. All animosities composed and all in health. Cooper River full of turnings; about 70 miles from the mouth divides and goes beyond the division 30 miles. Great plenty of fish and fowl. The land good and high up Cooper River. Westo Boo, a great river running above the heads of Ashley and Cooper Rivers. S. Bull chosen Cassica of Ettowan, and the reasons of their choice. C. Foster's ship cast away. A roll of tobacco sent preferred to the best Virginia. In hopes of indigo, ginger, yams, and potatoes.
J. Dalton to Lord Ashley. See Calendared ante, No. 736.
R. Cole to [Lord Ashley]. Good masts of 30 inches diameter. Desires respite of that part of his debt which is to be paid this August till the next.
J. West to [Lord Ashley]. The Proprietors' plantation whilst he was Governor managed carefully by Godfrey till he withdrew to Sir P. Colleton's. The produce of the Proprietors' plantation last year, 200 bushels of corn and peas, which will not hold out till next crop. Very little rain in 12 months. 40 acres clear, too much for their hands. Some of the servants' time near out. Desires that the servants hereafter sent may be husbandmen, or tradesmen, the last that were sent being bad. Bought four barrels of beef for 1,200 lbs. of sugar. Provisions like to be scarce before the next crop. Two acres per head to be planted with provisions by order of Council. Sir J. Yeamans engrosses the provisions put aboard the Blessing, 1,000 ft. timber, 2,620 pipestaves. if another ship were ready to take them in the people would pay their debts in pipestaves. The Council have abated one-third freight of the ship for Captain Halstead. Cattle thrive very well at little charge. Desires rugs and coarse blankets called Cutts at the George Inn, Holboen, and coarse canvas to make beds to preserve health in the cold winter. A list of medicines to be sent. Desires another Governor. Cossoes to pay a deer skin monthly as an acknowledgment, or else to lose our amity. The Emperor Colachico at Charles Town, with 100 Indians, to renew their amity, who say Woodward is got to Roanoak, near Virginia. They invite our people to their country to see it, but not thought convenient to do so. The ships to be employed to Carolina should be of great burthen, but little charge in sailing.
W. Owen to [Lord Ashley]. Six hundred people resolved to come from New York, industrious people. Qu. Whether tobacco from Carolina to England be for some time custom free? This the Virginians hearken after.Ginger grows well, but its cure, because of the winter, difficult. Indigo like to be a commodity. Indians brought back two runaway servants. Qu. How many make a Council? The land and timber in the freshes of Wando River better than in the salts. Navigable 20 leagues, extremely winding, and marshy whilst the salts continue, but after bold and bluff. Edisto much commended by the Indians, who think themselves mighty safe by our neighbourhood.
The Council to [Lord Ashley]. Captain Halstead took in men and goods at New York; the freight. Several places in the freshes of Wando fit for towns. Oyster Point a fit place for a port town, and thence to plant up the River Wando. No other rivers to be planted till Ashley and Wando are. Desire half charges of fortifications to be allowed by the Lords Proprietors. Stores of provisions and other things to be continued. People with their goods to be transported from New York at one-third freight. A ship three times as big as the Blessing sailed at the same charge. A Savana about James Town to be allowed the people. One-fifth of the depth to front on rivers cannot always be ordered. Desire commodities for Indian trade to purchase land. Desire all draughts not approved by the Council to be suppressed.
Sullivan to [Lord Ashley]. His 20l. bill was to procure provisions in Bermudas for his servants to spare the Proprietors' stores. Desires orders for the Planters' lands to be surveyed and to be paid for. Copy of petition to the Grand Council to the same purpose sent.
Halstead to [Lord Shaftesbury]. Has received despatches from the Bahamas and promises a careful observation of his instructions. Went about 80 miles up Cooper River. Ashley River navigable for ships not above two leagues above the town. Complains of rude usage from West, Godfrey, Bull, and Gray. New York men planted on James Town; on Ashley River have erected a town. Hopes to go loaded from Barbadoes to Carolina with people of quality, their servants and provisions. Denies port charges at Barbadoes. Several coming from Londonderry and Virginia. Has cautioned masters of ships to carry none who have not eight months provisions with them. Took the same course at New York. Carries none from Barbadoes without tickets. Coming a good sailor, but ambitious. Has received Lord Shaftesbury's letter of the 16th December.
T. Colleton to [Lord Shaftesbury]. Has drawn two bills for 78l. 10s. and sent enclosed Capt. Halstead's receipt for 150l. Promises his assistance to Halstead. 2 1/4 pp. [Shaftesbury Papers, Section IX., Bdle. 48, No. 84.] |
