Volume 112: January 1-February 28, 1709

Pages 87-101

Calendar of Treasury Papers, Volume 4, 1708-1714. Originally published by Her Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1974.

Citation:

January 1–February 28, 1709



1708–9.	1. An estimate of the charge of the office of her Majesty's ordnance for the year 1709. 1 page.
[After Jan. 1.]	2 & 3. Memorial “for the forces in Scotland to the Lord High Treasurer.” The arrears of pay due to the forces from 1 May 1707 were still unsatisfied, and the officers were considerably out of pocket in providing necessary equipage for themselves and troops upon the late intended invasion; pray an order for payment of the arrears preceding 24 Dec. last as stated in the account, from 1 May 1707 to 1 Jan. 1708. The account referred to. 3 pages.
Jan. 3.	4. Copy of the conditions upon which Mons. de Cadogan, Plenipotentiary-General, Major and Quartermaster-General of her Majesty's army, was qualified to treat with John Hudson and Theodore Jonghe for the supply of forage to the troops of his Highness the Elector of Brunswick Lunenburgh, being in the pay of her Majesty. Consisting of seven articles. Signed at Bruxelles, 3 Jan. 1708–9 [or 23 Dec. 1708, if N.S.]. (French.) 3 pages.
Jan. 4.	5. Similar copy of conditions entered into with Pierre Panguert and M. Robyns for forage for 21 squadrons, as well cavalry as dragoons, 4 battalions “el l'Estat major trouppes d'annoises:” being in her Majesty's pay and that of the States of the United Provinces. Consisting of nine articles. Dated 4 Jan. 1708–9. (French.) 6 pages.
Jan. 4.	6. “Prize Office, Jan^ry 4, 1708. An account of what debts are due, and what farther expectations there are of money to come into the office.” Minuted:—“9^th Feb. 1708–9. The Com^rs are to attend again next Saturday morning.” Again:—“30 May 1709. Read.” 3 pages.
Jan. 4.	7. Earl of Cromertie to the Lord [High Treasurer]. Formerly the justices ordered their clerks to give up rolls with the names of all persons fined in the court of Justiciary, whether of the circuits or in ordinary sittings, to the Lord Treasurer of Scotland, in order to exact the fines. The Com^rs of Justiciary desired to know to whom the lists should be delivered. Dated Edinburgh, 4 Jan. 1709. Minuted:—“Speak w^th E. of Salford. Answered 20^th Jan^ry 1708” [i.e., 1708–9]. The letter referred to is entered in the North Britain Book, Vol. I., p. 478. The Lord High Treasurer directs that the lists be transmitted to the Queen's Remembrancer of Scotland. 1 page, quarto.
Jan. 7.	8. Report of the Attorney General to the Lord High Treasurer on the petition of Robert Peacock, treasurer and chief constable of the hundred of Witchford, in the Isle of Ely, in the co. of Cambridge, and of William Robinson and Robert Chapman for themselves and the inhabitants of that hundred, who had paid 234l. for a pretended robbery committed in that hundred; asking that a fine of 234l. levied upon William Wye might, in consideration of their charges in prosecuting him and his servant for the false swearing of the latter, be paid to them: advising that it should be paid, and be distributed among the inhabitants of the hundred who had contributed. Dated 7 Jan. 1708–9. The petition. 5 pages.
Jan. 8.	9. Report of M^r William Blathwayt to the Lord High Treasurer on the petition of M^r Micajah Perry, on behalf of William Byrd, Esq., her Majesty's Receiver General of Virginia. Three per cent. only was allowed to the Receiver General of the tobacco duty for his trouble: advising that 5 per cent. should be allowed. Dated 8 Jan. 1708–9. Minuted:—“Agreed.” The petition. 3 pages.
Jan. 13.	10. Memorial of the colonels of the four regiments being raised for H.M. service in Ireland, to the Lord Lieutenant (Wharton), praying that the 40s. Irish money might be made up to 3l. English, allowed for levy money. “Rec^d from Col. Jones, Jan. 13, 1708.” (Three signatures.) 1 page.
Jan. 15.	11. Report of Thomas Brodrick to the Lord High Treasurer on the petition of Lieut. Robert Savill of the R^t Hon. the Lord Mordaunt's regiment to the Lord High Treasurer, as well in respect to the levy money and the accounts between the agent and the petitioner as to his demand for his own pay. Dated Controllers' Office, 15 Jan. 1708–9. 4 pages.
Jan. 17.	12. Report of the Com^rs for licensing hawkers and pedlars to the Lord High Treasurer upon the case of several poor people who go about the streets of London and suburbs thereof, and places adjacent, buying old clothes, hats, perriwigs, &c., and selling them at the broker's shops, or where else they can dispose of them. Being informed that the people who cried old clothes about the town daily exposed to sale, either at some houses where they appointed tradesmen to meet them, or else at the brokers' shops, the several goods which they bought, of the which they could by no means pretend to be either the makers, apprentices, servants, or agents to the makers, they (the Com^rs) ordered their officers to take up some of the most substantial of these traders, who were thereupon convicted. The traders had applied to Sir Edward Northey, whose opinion was that they came within the Act; indeed they seemed to acknowledge it in their “case,” for they prayed to be excused till Midsummer, when every one was willing to take a licence. Some of the officers who had taken them up had, in consideration of their poverty, compounded the penalty of 12l. to 4 guineas, which being wholly in the officers' own choice, they (the Com^rs) hoped this piece of charity in the officers would not be imputed to them as a fault. The Com^rs' opinion was that the petitioners were traders within the description of the Act. Dated 17 Jan. 1708–9. The case referred to, in which the petitioners state “that when the said Act was first in force, some of them went to the Commissioners aforesaid to know if they must have a licence for buying or selling old cloaths, and the Commissioners told them that they need not have one; for the Act did not reach them. But now some cunning body or other, having found out this great secret, the Commiss^rs say they are certainly included in the Act, and have given orders accordingly for the taking them all up. Some of these poor people have been with the Commissioners, but can have no redress; notwithstanding what has been formerly said as to their not being within the said Act. That if they did give their opinion not according to law it signified nothing to the purpose, it was only a mistake and they might be mistaken as well as other men.” Minuted:—“Read 21^th Jan^ry 1708.” In the Minute Book, Vol. XIV., p. 287 is:—“Com^rs of Hawkers & Pedlars cald in. Their report about cryers of old cloaths, &c. is read. The Com^rs are to tell them that they shall not be troubled till Midsomer next, provided they will then take out lycences.” 5 pages.
Jan. 18.	13. Com^rs of Salt's “report [to the Lord High Treasurer] of the reasons that occasioned the decrease of the duties on salt in the year ending Michaelmas 1708, with an account of the debts on the salt duties at Michaelmas 1708, and the balances that were then in cash in the hands of the several collectors [dated 18 Jan. 1708]; together with a copy of their presentment of the 27^th Nov. 1707, relating to the duties under their management annexed.” 20 pages.
Jan. 18.	14. The Lord Advocate of Scotland (Ja. Steuart) to the Lord [High Treasurer] “about the recoinage in Scotland, proposing that the Bank should be allowed 1,800l. for their care and pains in taking in the m^o in order to the recoinage at Edin[burgh].” Dated Edin., 18 Jan. 1709, [i.e. 1708–9. He received a pension in March 1709–10, and is spoken of as late Lord Advocate. See North Britain Book, Vol. 2, p. 143. His successor as Lord Advocate was appointed in 1709.] Also the memorial of the Governor and Court of Directors of the Bank of Scotland, asking for a gratification for the above service. The recoinage could hardly have been accomplished without the aid of the Bank. They had advanced 40,000l. during the whole time of the coinage which commenced in September 1707. 2 pages.
Jan. 18.	15. Report of the Com^rs of Revenue, Ireland, to the Lord High Treasurer on the petition of Hannah Griffith, widow of Thomas Griffith, late collector of Sligo, who was security for his brother and indebted to the crown. Dated Custom House, Dublin, 18 Jan. 1708. 1½ pages.
Jan. 20.	16. Report of the Com^rs of Customs to the Lord High Treasurer on the petition of the merchants trading to Portugal, Spain, and Italy, complaining of a proposal made by certain Virginia and Maryland merchants, for liberty to export tobacco and other plantation goods, and British manufactures to France in neutral ships; and in return to import wines from thence in the same ships, which proposal if agreed to, the petitioners apprehended would not only ruin their particular trade, but tend to destroy the woollen manufacture of this kingdom. The Com^rs were of opinion that though the trade of Portugal, Spain, and the Straits was very beneficial to Great Britain, and ought by all means to be encouraged, yet that the enlarging the vent of the plantation goods and British manufactures, would be a further advantage to the nation; even on the supposition that some French wines might be imported in return for such goods. But whether this advantage were of importance enough to open any trade with France at that time, was a subject for much higher consideration than for this Board. They were further of opinion that the tobacco trade should be carried on in British shipping. Dated 20 Jan. 1708. The petition with many signatures and a paper of reasons against the importations referred to. Minuted:—“Read 24 Jan^ry 1708–9.” 4 pages.
Jan. 20.	17. Copy of “Convention made between the underwritten persons for recruiting the body of Imperial foot in the pay of the Queen of Great Britain in Catalonia, being authorized for this effect by his Imperial Majesty and the Queen of Great Britain.” Dated at the Hague, 20 Jan. 1708–9 [if N.S. 9 Jan.]. The persons signing were “P. et D. de Marlborough Eugene de Savoye.” 2½ pages.
Jan. 20.	18. Com^rs for the Equivalent to the Lord High Treasurer, proposing that his Lordship should send his warrant to the Com^rs of Excise for North Britain to pay over to the former the increase on the excise, as well as arrears when recovered. Dated Edinburgh, 20 Jan. 1708–9. 2 pages.
Jan. 21.	19. Report of the Com^rs of Customs to the Lord High Treasurer on a memorial from the Com^rs of Customs at Edinburgh, praying information as to the Queen's moiety and the officer's proportion of seizures. The practice upon the Act of the last session, pursuant to a late order in the Court of Exchequer was, that all French goods seized should be appraised at their full value, duty included, and that after condemnation the duties should be paid, and the remainder of the appraisement divided between the Queen and the officer; and that when the value of the goods, as appraised, fell short of the duty, the goods should be sold to the best advantage, and the produce of the sale applied by the collector towards the payment of the duties, &c. Dated Custom House, London, 21 Jan. 1708. Minuted:—“24 Jan^ry 1708–9. A copy to be sent to the Com^rs of y^e customes in Scotland & direct them to govern themselves accord^gly.” The memorial mentioned. 2 pages.
[About Jan. 21.]	20. Memorial of Edward Pauncfort to the Lord High Treasurer. Prays that a stop may be put on the last assignment made by Guy Palmes on the pension granted him from the post office, the memorialist having lent him 4,000l. to make good a deficiency when he (Palmes) was teller of the Exchequer. Referred to the Postmasters General 21 Jan. 1708. 2 pages.
Jan. 22.	21. Report of the Commissioners of Revenue (Ireland) to the Lord High Treasurer concerning ships going with provisions from Ireland to Spain. Her Majesty's learned counsel were of opinion there was no law to prohibit the same. Dated Custom House, Dublin, 22 Jan. 1708–9. 1 page.
Jan. 22.	22. The Earl of Gallway to the Lord High Treasurer. Testifies to the great merit and learning of, and to his particular esteem for Doctor Bouhereau, who had been his secretary in Piedmont, whose case he enclosed. Dated Lisbon, 2 Feb. 1709 N.S., i.e. 22 Jan. Docquetted:—2 Feb. 1708–9. Accompanied by the “petition of Doctor Elias Bouhereau, Keeper of the Public Library near S^t Sepulchres, Dublin,” erected by the Archbishop of Armagh. He was allowed 200l. a year by the beneficence of her Majesty until the chantership of the Cathedral Church of S^t Patrick fell vacant by the death of Dean Synge. Was required to pay two third parts of 360 odd pounds expended in buildings to the executors of the Dean. Was a stranger and left France for his religion's sake, and brought over nothing with him but a numerous family and his books, value 500l., which he gave to the library. Prays the continuance of his pension for two years. Was 68 years old. Minuted:—“Ref. to my Lord Lieutenant.” 2 pages.
[? About Jan. 24.]	23. “Virginia Merchants' reply” [to the Lord High Treasurer], respecting the ransom of the ship “London Merchant,” which was taken in coming from Virginia, the master and mate being carried as hostages to France. It was hoped that his Lordship would think it equitable that all who benefitted by the redemption should contribute in proportion to their interest. The merchants pressed that her Majesty should contribute to the redemption of the master and mate; but the Com^rs of Customs, to whom the matter had been referred, had thought otherwise. A precedent is cited of another capture. 16 signatures. Three other papers on the same subject. Minuted:—“Com^rs Customs to be here next Wednesday & then these papers to be considered.” “Read 24^th January 1708–9. The C. C. & y^e pet^rs present.” “There being no precedent alledged but that of Sandwell, and my Lord finding there is a great difference between that & the present case, doth thinke a precedent of this nature would be followed w^th too great inconveniencys.” 8 pages.
Jan 26.	24. W^m Lowndes to W^m Blathwaite, Esq^re, Auditor General of her Majesty's plantations. Encloses Order of Council relating to the issuing of a commission for settling the limits between Virginia and Catalonia [sic for Carolina]. The Lord High Treasurer desired M^r Blathwaite to report thereon. Dated 26 Jan. 1708–9. 1 page.
Jan. 27.	25. Thomas Richards to William Lowndes, Esq., Secretary of the Treasury and member of Parliament. Encloses proposals to be laid before the Lord High Treasurer to be used in the House if he saw fit, adding, “if these proposalls be any ways serviceable to my Lord, yourself, or the nation, I shall think myself very well rewarded & extremely pleased with this opportunity offer'd me, of casting my mite into the Corban for serving her Ma^tie, & easing my countreymen of the calamities this scarcity of money makes them groan under.” Dated 27 Jan. 1708–9. His proposals included (1) that the groats, three pences, two pences, and pence (of which there were very few) should be made of silver of five groats, or half-a-crown an ounce. (2.) (If the first were not adopted) the fire office proposed by him in the late reign, to supply the deficiency of the clipped money, would be a good fund to work upon, and would raise 1,700,000l. in the south of Great Britain. (3.) The merchant should be allowed a little more for bullion brought to the Mint than he could make any other way. (4.) The guineas to go at 2s. or half-a-crown instead of 1s. 6d., and the louis dores brought into the Mint at 4d. or 6d. more than their value. This would renew the golden age, and drain the common enemy of those yellow boys, with which he did more mischief than with the sword; and lastly the proposals above mentioned for raising a supply by a general insurance for losses by fire. [This is an elaborate paper, objections being added and answered.] He states “The fire office in London, called ‘the Friendly Society,’ was y^e first, and in my opinion the best ensurance of that kind that ever was set up; the members thereof come into it for a small sūme deposited at their initiation, & whensoever any fire happens are relieved by the whole body of the society; each person bearing an equal share towards repairing the loss. Every member of this society at his entrance into it deposits in the hand of y^e undertakers 16s. for every hundred pounds worth of stone or brick buildings, and double that sūme for tymber, buildings, besides 2s. 6d. for his policy or instrument of insurance, w^ch lasts but for 7 years.” 3½ pages.
Jan. 27.	26. Order in Council for the Officers of the Ordnance to supply the stores and ammunition of war specified in a schedule, for her Majesty's province of New Hampshire. Dated 27 Jan. 1708. The schedule mentioned. 3 pages (decayed).
Jan. 29.	27. M^r James Graham and M^r Robert Forbes to [? M^r Lowndes], asking him to take a suitable opportunity to present an enclosed application to the Lord High Treasurer, containing their claims for their salaries as judges of the High Court of Admiralty in Scotland. They had received nothing since the Union. Dated Edinburgh, 29 Jan. 1708–9. The paper mentioned is not with it. 2½ pages.
Jan. 30.	28. Ad. Cardonnel to M^r Taylour. Encloses by the Duke's directions copy of a letter from the Duke of Wirtemberg, relating to the arrears of extraordinaries due to the Danish troops, to be laid before the Lord Treasurer that some care might be taken in it. Had written to M^r Sweet to know if he were in cash to advance about 100l., in which case his Grace would give him directions. Dated [Bruxel]les, 10 Feb. 1709, [i.e., 30 Jan.]. Copy of the letter referred to. The Duke of Wirtemberg says the troops of the King, his master, were in the last necessity from want of pay. By calculation Great Britain owed 309,857 florins. Asks his Lordship's assistance in the payment thereof, as well as what was owing from the States General. Without these aids no regiment of the Danes would be recruited or remounted for the next campaign. Dated Bruxelles, 4 Feb. 1708–9. Copy of another letter as to the acceptance of a bill of exchange by M^r Sweet. (Both French.) Also an account of the arrears referred to. 6 pages.
Jan. 31.	29. Report of the Attorney General (Mountague) to the Lord High Treasurer. Had perused the annexed draft of a privy seal for his discharge of the Earl of Peterborough's lands from any demands of the crown upon account of his late employment in Spain, and was of opinion it would answer the purpose. Dated 31 Jan. 1708–9. The draft mentioned. 4¼ pages.
Feb. 1.	30. Docquet:—“To my Lord Treasurer from Sir Hew Dalrymple, dated 1 Feb. 1708–9, ab^t the add^ll salary for himself & y^e salarys to the rest of the lords of session.” Dated Ed^r, 1^st Febr. 1709 [which appears to be 1708–9]. The above letter is accompanied by copies of two memorials respecting the same salaries, and a copy of a royal letter on the same subject. 4 pages and 2 halves.
Feb. 1.	31. R. Walpole to M^r Lowndes. The Queen's printer to send to his (R. Walpole's) office 500 Acts of Parliament for the more speedy and effectual recruiting H.M. land forces and marines, and 500 proclamations to be distributed among the recruiting officers. Dated Whitehall, 1 Feb. 1708–9. 1 page, quarto.
Feb. 1.	32. “Representation of the Commissioners of the Stamp Duties relating to the Atturny's Bill for an indemnity now before the House of Commons.” Objecting on many grounds to granting an indemnity to attorneys, &c. for the frauds committed by them in relation to stamps. Having wronged the duty they had previously applied to Parliament for an indemnity, and had obtained it on condition that they paid all the duties they ought to have paid on or before 20 Nov. 1707. This they had omitted to do, and were now applying for a further indemnity Act. Dated 1 Feb. 1708. Also a printed paper relating thereto. 4 pages.
Feb. 2.	33. Report of M^r William Blathwayt to the Lord High Treasurer on an order of council upon a representation of the Com^rs of Trade and Plantations relating to the issuing of a commission for settling the limits between Virginia and Carolina. Was of opinion that as the commission tended to the improvement of the colony, the charge thereof would properly come out of the quit rents, as her Majesty had no other revenue at her disposal. The expense would not exceed 200l. Dated 2 Feb. 1708–9. The order in council referred to. 6 pages.
Feb. 3.	34. Order in Council referring a report on the petition of Colonel George Burton, of Major-General Wills' regiment of marines, to the Lord High Treasurer, for consideration of his services and sufferings, more particularly in Spain. Dated 3 Feb. 1708. The copy of the report, which states that “the Col. received no less than 13 stabs and cuts with bayonets at the battle of S^t Estevan in Catalonia.” Minuted:—“Read 21^th Apr. 1710. My Lord will speak w^th my Lord Orford on this report.” 2 pages.
Feb. 4.	35. Representation of the Board of Green Cloth to the Lord High Treasurer that they had imported certain wine from Holland in H.M. men-of-war for the Queen's service. These they had directions to enter at the Custom House and pay the duty on, but the patent officers did not think that course practicable or safe, whereupon it was resolved that the wine should be seized, which was done. The duties amounted to 2,122l. 1s. 11d., and if necessary to be paid, would his Lordship order an imprest to Master Cofferer and a noli prosequi? Dated 4 Feb. 1708–9. 2 pages.
Feb. 4/15.	36. The Earl of Gallway to the Lord High Treasurer. The hospital was so important an article, that it was impossible to subsist without one there. By the treaty the King of Portugal was obliged to furnish all the necessaries, but the Portuguese could not possibly comply with these terms, and the great number of men lost there was owing to our dependence upon their assistance. Asked his Lordship to give directions to M^r Brydges for the extra-ordinary expenses about the same, as was done in Spain. M^r Morrice had nothing remitted to him but the bare subsistence of the troops, which must fall short, if he had to pay sums for the hospital. Sent over by Col. Stanwix a draft for an establishment for this business. Entreated his Lordship's directions to M^r Brydges thereon. The campaign drew very near and it was necessary all these things should be settled. Dated Lisbon, Feb. 15, 1709 N.S., i.e., 4 Feb. [1708–9]. 5 pages.
[About Feb. 4, 1708–9.]	37. Memorial of the Earl of Leven, Governor of the Castle of Edinburgh, to the Lord High Treasurer, seeking to have the duties on his wines allowed him since the time of the Union, as had been always allowed to him and his predecessors as governors of the Castle of Edinburgh. He had had no allowance for intelligence these three years. The Government in Scotland was in constant use to give 100l. yearly to all commanders-in-chief and himself before the Union. He expended above 200l. during the last session of the Parliament of Scotland when the Union was treated of, and as much about the time of the invasion last year for intelligence. Two accounts of the expense of repairs and provisions for the Castle. 3 pages, 2 halves. [This memorial seems to have been referred to the Com^rs of Customs for North Britain to report on, 4 Feb. 1708–9. See North Britain Book, Vol. II., p. 10.]
Feb. 5.	38. The Lord Advocate of Scotland (Ja. Steuart) to the Lord [High Treasurer ?]. Their salaries were paid with about 6 per cent. deduction—and the hardship was the greater as the Com^rs of Customs and Excise received theirs in full. Begs that provision may be made for the circuits, and that he may not again be entrusted with the disbursements. Dated Edinburgh, 5 Feb. 1709, i.e., 1708–9. 1 page.
Feb. 8.	39. The Board of Ordnance to the Lord High Treasurer. Had laid before Parliament an estimate for land services for the next year. 60,000l. was required for fortifications at Portsmouth, Chatham, &c., and 10,000l. for Languard Fort and for fortifying Harwich. As the land necessary could not be obtained so soon, they had abated the estimate 20,000l. Commissioners should be appointed to value the properties. Dated 8 Feb. 1708–9. Minuted:—“A. S. M. to authorize my Lord Tr[easur]er to appoint such officers of y^e Ordnance as shall be thought most proper, together with y^e Surv^r Gen^ll, to view the severall places where the fortifications are to be placed, and to take an acco^t of what h^os & buildings not belonging to the crown must be removed and taken away, & to make an estimate of the value thereof, and to report the whole to my Lord Tr[easur]er.” Again:—“Read 15 Feb^ry 1708–9. The off^rs of Ordñce will propose prop[er] persons for com[missione]rs.” 2 pages.
Feb. 8.	40. Report of the Com^rs of Victualling to the Lord High Treasurer on the memorial of M^r James Milner respecting provisions and money furnished for the victualling of H.M. ships at Leghorn, Genoa, and Lisbon. It would be advantageous that the bills should be paid. Dated 8 Feb. 1708–9. An account of bills drawn and the memorial mentioned. Minuted:—“10^th Feb. 1708–9. Ordered upon M^r Milner's assurance that the tallys shall not be disposed under par.” [M^r Milner gave the assurance.] 3 pages.
Feb. 10.	41. Affidavit of Stephen Foster and two other servants of Capt. Robert Mowberry, “wright or joiner” to the Custom House, Edinburgh. Were employed on the 6th of Feb. by their master to put up and watch the Queen's arms, and the union crosses, and other devices, with the intent they should be illuminated with candles. When illuminated the mob or rabble demolished the same with large stones. Sworn before James Steuart on 10 Feb. 1708. 2 pages.
Feb. 10.	42. Report of the Barons of the Exchequer (Scotland) to the Lord High Treasurer. Had no objection to M^r Philipp's qualifications, though it would be necessary to appoint some person to audit the accounts arising out of the Exchequer Rolls, but the Treasurer's Remembrancer and the Clerk of the Pipe could do that. Lord Seafield engaged with them at first to take particular care of M^r Arbuthnot, one of their most useful clerks. They had no other way left to help him but by requesting that he might be made clerk of the Exchequer Rolls, and that the three offices of Clerks of the Property, Burrough, and Sheriffs' Rolls might fall to him as they became void. This would bring no extra expense, and something might be saved hereafter. If this looked like too good husbandry, they hoped it was an error on the right hand, at least till the revenue applicable to the civil list was more equal to the charges on it. Dated 10 Feb. 1708 [i.e., 1708–9. See the endorsement.] 1 page.
Feb. 10.	43. H. Boyle to the Lord High Treasurer. Sends copies of four addresses of the House of Commons to her Majesty, in order that the officers concerned might comply with what the House desired. Dated Whitehall, 10 Feb. 1708–9. 1 page.
Feb. 11.	44. William Popple to William Lowndes, Esq. Encloses by command of the Com^rs of Trade and Plantations an extract from a letter from Col. Park, Governor of the Leeward Islands, complaining of illegal trade carried on there. Dated 11 Feb. 1708–9. The extract referred to. The trade carried on was in negro slaves. The Governor was freely offered bribes to wink at the clandestine trade. If 5,000l. would procure his removal they would freely give it. The duty of 4½ per cent. would yield 1,000l. more a year, if the officers did their duty; and he (the Governor) would give 1,000l. more for the farm of it, if he might appoint his own officers. The officers should be all strangers and removed every three or four years, for when they came to be inhabitants they dared not do their duty. 3 pages.
Feb. 11.	45. Report of William Blathwayt to the Lord High Treasurer on the petition of the visitors and governors of the college of King William and Queen Mary in Virginia. The college was founded by letters patent of 4 Will, and Mary upon the application of several persons in Virginia, in order to the supply of the church there with a seminary of ministers, and that the youth of the colony might be educated in learning and good manners, for propagating the Christian faith among the Indians. It was to be a place of general studies, or college for teaching theology, philosophy, languages, and other good arts and sciences. 1,985l. 14s. 10d. were paid out of the quit rents for the erection of the building. Other grants were also made to the college, which was accidentally burnt down in October 1705; advising provision to be made for the re-erection out of the quit rents, &c. Dated 11 Feb. 1708–9. Also the petition, with 14 signatures. 7 pages.
Feb. 11.	46. M^r Burchett to M^r Lowndes. Sends a memorial to be laid before the L^d High Treasurer, which the Earl of Wemys, Vice-Admiral of Scotland, had delivered to the Lord High Admiral, representing the necessity of the appointment of a secretary to correspond with the Admiralty Office, and proposing that 200l. a year should be allowed him. The Lord High Admiral had no objection to the establishment of the office, but could not do anything in respect to the allowance. Dated 11 Feb. 1708–9. The memorial mentioned. 2 pages.
Feb. 11/22.	47. Ad. Cardonnel to M^r Taylour. Enclosed copies of two contracts for furnishing forage to Danish troops and those of Hanover for their present winter quarters, and a letter of the Duke of Marlborough to M^r Cartwright. Dated Hague, 22 Feb. 1709 [i.e., 11 Feb. 1708–9]. The enclosure referred to, viz.: The Duke of Marlborough to Captain Cartwright. Desires him to accept the bills of the Sieur Castillo, who furnished the forage for the army before Gand, and now supplied the Imperial troops, viz., for 40,000 guilders, payable in two months, and the like sum payable in three months, for forage supplied. Dated Brussels, 17 Feb. 1709 [? if N.S., i.e., 6 Feb.] 2 pages, quarto.
Feb. 11/22.	48. The Earl of Galway to the Lord High Treasurer. Had often troubled his Lordship about Gibraltar, for indeed he was always of opinion that that place was very well worth the expense that had been or might be laid out upon it, and hoped by the directions he gave about the works that they might by that time have been finished, and at a reasonable rate. It was a disappointment to find that that matter had not been managed according to his expectation. Had sent for the engineer, Col. Bennet, to give an account of his conduct. Was the more concerned because if the sum which he formerly proposed had not been so far exceeded Parliament might have settled the arrears of that garrison. It was hard upon these poor people, who had advanced their money for the good of the service during the Prince of Hesse's time, to lie so long out of it, especially some who lent the utmost farthing and were forced to subsist on charity. M^r Morris would ere then have given M^r Bridges an account of payments for the fortifications. Would his Lordship find a fund for them, for they had none on that side of the water? A great source of expense at that place [Gibraltar] was the bread. The regiments might very well afford to pay for it out of their subsistence, since the Queen gave them their other provisions, and the rather because the two windmills he had ordered to be built would grind their corn, and so reduce the bread to a more reasonable price than hitherto, whilst the “Assentists” were obliged to send the finest flour from thence (Lisbon) for that purpose. Dated Lisbon, 22 Feb. 1709 N.S., i.e., 11 Feb. [1708–9]. 6 pages, quarto.
Feb. 12.	49. Report of J. Dod and J. Warters on the memorial of the Duke of Bolton, Governor and Vice-Admiral of the Isle of Wight; respecting a French ship driven on the coast of the Isle of Wight, and brought to Yarmouth Road under the guns of the Castle, and afterwards condemned as a perquisite to the Admiralty. Advising the giving up of the ship to the Duke, and that the proceeds should be distributed to the officers who seized the same, the Lord High Admiral's tenths and charges being first paid. Dated (on the back) 12 Feb. 1708–9. The memorial referred to. Minuted:—“My Lord will speak w^th M^r Dod and Waters.” 2 pages.
Feb. 15.	50. Report of the Com^rs of the Navy to M^r Lowndes on the allegations of M^r Harnage, a slopseller of the Navy. They pray that his L^p might be informed that M^r Harnage had supplied clothes to the amount of 37,103l. 1s. 6d. and had only been paid 2,594l. 13s. 6d. Dated 15 Feb. 1708–9. M^r Harnage's petition for an imprest of 10,000l. to carry on his contract. The copy of the contract and a list of the ships supplied, with the amounts. Minuted:—“Read 11^th July 1709. Send to the Com^rs Navy that my Lord doth not find they have given any opinion, and directs them in this and all other cases where matters are referred to them to report their opinion very expressly.” 9 pages and 3 parts.
Feb. 15.	51. Report of J. Dod and J. Warters on the petition of several poor sailors of Kingsmore, near Dartmouth, advising that 100l. should be allowed them for bringing in a prize: the ship having hoisted signals of distress off Dartmouth and yielded herself up as prize. Dated 15 Feb. 1708–9. Minuted:—“This affair at an end 100^li reported & paid.” The petition mentioned. 2 pages.
Feb. 19.	52. The Lord Lieut. of Ireland (Wharton) to the Lord High Treasurer. Encloses petition of the Earl of Roscommon, praying for an addition to his pension, with the report of the Attorney General for Ireland and a letter from the Lords Justices, who were of opinion that the petitioner, being a person of the first quality in that kingdom, and his circumstances very low and necessitous, if her Majesty would make an addition to his pension it would be well disposed. The Lord Lieut. concurred therein. Dated Westminster, 19 Feb. 1708–9. Also the papers mentioned. 4 pages.
Feb. 19.	53. Com^rs of Ordnance to the Lord High Treasurer. Send the names of persons who were to attend M^r Travers, H.M. Surveyor General, to survey lands at Portsmouth, Chatham, and Harwich, purchased for fortifications. Remind his L^p to agree with the East India C^o for 500 tons of saltpetre which was absolutely necessary. Dated 19 Feb. 1708–9. 1 page.
Feb. 19.	54. Presentment of the Com^rs of Salt to the Lord High Treasurer relating to drawbacks claimed for fish exported from North Britain. Petitioners [whose names are not given] were not entitled to debentures for their fish, because the duties were not paid for the salt used in curing them. Dated 19 Feb. 1708–9. 1¼ pages.
Feb. 19.	55. Copy of a petition of Robert Earl of Roscommon to the Queen, and copies of four other documents relating to additions to his pension. The last is dated 19 Feb. 1708–9. 4 pages.
Feb. 24.	56. Memorial of the [Com^rs] of Ordnance to the Lord High Treasurer. Her Majesty's commands to them through Lord Sunderland were to supply stores for Spain, New Hampshire, and for Dunbarton, at a cost of 30,149l. 2s. 11d.; but the parliaments had previously concluded the estimates. The magazines were so empty, and the demands so great for Port Mahon, Jamaica, Barbadoes, Scotland, the train in Flanders, and the Fleet, that they begged his Lordship to order them for sea service 40,000l. and for land service 60,000l. Dated 24 Feb. 1708–9. The signatures are not added. 1 page.
Feb. 24.	57. Memorial of the Auditors of Imprest (E. Harley and A. Maynwaring) to the Lord High Treasurer praying for allowances in passing various accounts. The whole charge of their officers was defrayed out of fees. They had no allowance for office rent or incidental expenses. Dated 24 Feb. 1708. With a note at the foot referring the consideration thereof to the Chancellor of the Exchequer and William Lowndes, Esq. Dated 7 March 1708. 5 pages.
Feb. 25.	58. Extract from a letter from the Lord Galway to the Earl of Sunderland. Dated Lisbon 8 March N.S. 1708–9. Corn had been very dear in all Andalusia, but now would be quite otherwise. The enemy had proclaimed Cadiz a free port, and several British ships laden with corn had gone there. Cadiz was now so well stored with corn from Britain and with corn and other provisions from Ireland, that 10 regiments of foot had been sent to subsist there. Did not know whether Britain could reap any great benefit at present by an open trade with Cadiz; but was sure that carrying provisions there was most pernicious. Corn being sold half as cheap again there, none must be expected at Lisbon, and they would soon be reduced to the starving condition which the enemy would otherwise have been in. The new Assentista had raised the price of ammunition-bread 7 rees upon a loaf. 1½ pages, quarto.
Feb. 25.	59. Lord Chief Baron Smith to William Lowndes, Esq. The Lord High Treasurer's commands came to Edinburgh after they had left, as he (M^r Lowndes) would see by an enclosure from two of his brethren. Had also sent an account of the state of the public debts and claims, which came before them, that they might be transmitted to the House. How skilfully they had acted in that affair others must judge; but they had acted impartially and to the best of their understanding. Was parting with his brother Scrope, who was going to “Bristow,” and he for Frowlesworth in Leicestershire. Dated Doncaster, Feb. 25, 1708. 1 page, quarto.
Feb. 25.	60. Report of the Com^rs of Excise to the Lord High Treasurer sending an account of the persons who had compounded their debts contracted on account of the revenues under their (the Com^rs') care, &c., according to an order of the House of Commons. Dated 25 Feb. 1708. The order from the House for the same and the account mentioned. 3 pages.
Feb. 25.	61. Translation of a paper delivered to my Lord Treasurer by Mons. Vryberge, Envoy Extraordinary from the States General. Relating to the States' men-of-war bringing over prohibited goods when acting as convoy. Dated 25 Feb. 1708. 2 pages.
Feb. 26.	62. “An abstract of y^e collectors of Her Majesty's customs receipts in y^e several ports in North Britain, from y^e 1^st May 1707 to y^e 25 December 1708, with an accompt currant & abbreviate for said time hereunto annexed.” “Custom House, Edinburgh 26 February 1708–9. Extracted p[er] John Short Accomp^t Generall.” 2 very large pages.
Feb. 26.	63. The Duke of Montrose to the Lord —. Again calls attention to the case of the ship Industry which came to Scotland after 1 May, and asks that her Majesty's part might be remitted; without which the poor merchants would be undone, and some must either quit the country or lie in gaol. If driven to the last extremity they would make an ugly clamour in the country. Dated Saturday 26 Febr. [year not named, but Saturday 26 Feb. would be 1708–9]. 1 page, quarto.
Feb. 26.	64. Copy of report of the Com^rs of Customs to the Lord High Treasurer. Had caused the enclosed account to be prepared of public debts which had been compounded, in accordance with the address of the House of Commons. Dated 26 Feb. 1708. The account mentioned. 5 pages.
Jan. 20 and Feb. 28.	65. Letters from the Com^rs of the Navy to Sir Thomas Littleton, Baronet, Treasurer of the Navy, principally relating to paying off ships. Dated between 20 Jan. and 28 Feb. 1708–9. 14 pages.