BHO

America and West Indies: June 1680

Pages 544-559

Calendar of State Papers Colonial, America and West Indies: Volume 10, 1677-1680. Originally published by Her Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1896.

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Citation:

June 1680

1680
June 1.
Windsor.
1373. [Minute of] petition of William Penn, son to Sir William Penn, deceased, for a grant of a tract of land in America lying north of Maryland, on the east bounded with Delaware River, on the west limited as Maryland is, and northward to extend as far as plantable, which is altogether Indian. With a reference to the Committee of Council for Trade and Plantations to report what may be fit for His Majesty to do, and in case they shall be of opinion that His Majesty may gratify petitioner, to consider of such limitations and other clauses as are fitting to be inserted in the grant. ½ p. [Dom. Entry Bk., Chas. II., Vol. LV., p. 80.] On a separate inserted leaf is written "Board of Trade." "25 Feb. 1680(-1). Report." "Grant to Wm. Penn of the three Lower Countries—Newcastle, Kent, and Sussex, about 1686."
June 7.
Boston.
1374. Edward Randolph to [the Commissioners of Customs]. Gave an account of his proceedings in papers sent by Mr. Joules about fourteen days ago; cannot now send particulars, being engaged in a vexatious suit about a seizure of the pink Expectation of Boston (180 tons) from Cork in Ireland. All endeavours are used to cast him and get him in prison; had already been arrested on an action of 800l. by Grecian, the master of the pink, had not the Governor directed that his bond should be accepted. Several ships are arrived and three or four more expected from Holland, France, and Bilbao, which makes them concerned to imprison him or force him out of this town. When prosecuting Grecian he was only admitted as an informer spite of his deputation and instructions from their Honours. There is another court to-morrow, the magistrates refused to assign him an attorney, expects to be cast whatever defence he makes. Placed his servant a fortnight ago in a warehouse, where goods were landed out of a ketch from Bilbao, who, during his absence, was set on and beaten by four or five persons, while others removed the goods. Made a deputy in Boston and Charlestown, who was warned with his family out of doors by some of their townsmen who are traders and men in public authority, and all this not from any aversion to him but because of his unwelcome errand. No vessels enter outward bound nor is any bond given before loading, so that the commodities are shipped off whither and where men please. Last Friday a sailor, who had been abused by his master, informed Randolph that the James of Londonderry, Thomas Browning master, of 80 tons, square-sterned with a large carved image of St. James in the stern, had loaded 100 hogsheads of tobacco and was ready to sail; went to the Governor, and finding that he knew nothing about it went with the Marshal and six men to seize her. Coming up her side was threatened to be "knocked at head"; returned and told the Governor, who gave orders for seizing her, but she was towed away by Boston boats from the place. At the same time and place was a pink of 60 tons riding at anchor, laden with logwood, belonging to Nicholas Page of Boston, who gave no bond, pretending to be bound for Newfoundland and so got a pass from the Governor; it was ordered that if he went aboard that pink he should be "knocked at head." This was the only reason that made him unwilling to come with only such powers as derived from themselves, having been treated with respect in all other colonies. Know not the name of Page's pink, her master's name is Lud, but they change names and master as often as they please; the James of Londonderry belongs to Thomas and William Squire. After all this trouble is verily assured that he has broken the heart of this Irish trade. Has not yet heard from the Commissioners of Customs; if he hears not by Michaelmas, thinks it will be best to make a trip home, having his children to take care of. For His Majesty to write more letters will signify no more than a London Gazette. The news of trouble at home gives encouragement to faction in Massachusetts; has only hope and life left which he is unwilling to expose to the rage of a deluded multitude. Sends this by Mr. James Bollen, Secretary of New Jersey; it may be the last from him as he knows not whom to trust. Hopes their Honours will remember him at that distance. Endorsed, The Commissioners of the Customs from Mr. Randolph. "Recd. 10th August 1680." 4 pp. [Col. Papers. Vol. XLV., No. 4.]
June 7 to
June 29.
1375. Minutes of Council of Virginia. Address to the Governor requesting the reinstatement of Colonel Philip Ludwell in the Council, from which he was withdrawn owing to a quarrel with Colonel Jeffreys, wherein the latter refused the good offices of the Council to reconciliation. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LXXXIV., p. 33.]
June 11. Decision that an appeal lies to the General; Assembly in the case of Sarah Bland against Colonel St. Leger Codd. [Col. Entry Bk. Vol. LXXXIV., p. 31.]
June 15. Order for inquiring into the petition of William Thompson. [p. 34].
June 16. Revision of a judgment of the General Court. [p. 32.]
June 19. Address to the Governor respecting the negotiations of Sir John Berry and Colonel Francis Moryson with the Indians. On above advice (given without the permits of the Council and Assembly) the King sent four rich coronets to four Indian princes. The Council fearing that these people may he heightened thereby, "especially by such marks of dignity as coronets, which they humbly conceive ought not to be prostituted to such mean persons" unanimously beg the Governor to withhold these presents till the King's pleasure be further known. [Col. Entry Bk. Vol. LXXXIV., p. 39.]
June 23. Petition of Colonel Edward Hill, who finds himself, he knows not why, a mark for the Royal displeasure, and begs the Governor to certify as to his good character. The Council certified his Excellency that Colonel Hill has always been of good character and fame, and begs him to represent the same to the King. Petition of Mr. John Wright, minister, showing that Mr. Jonathan Davis, though not a qualified minister, hath, without leave given, assumed to himself the liberty of Wright's pulpit. The Council orders both parties to appear before it. Petition read of Thomas Phillips, a negro, against unlawful detention by a master to whom he has served his full time, and the party complained of ordered to appear in person before the Council. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LXXXIV., pp. 35–37.]
June. 1376. Journal of House of Burgesses of Virginia. Speech of Lord Culpeper to the General Assembly of Virginia. Has not been unserviceable to them during his long absence in England. Recommends to them the Acts brought with him from England. Cannot at once settle the arrears of pay due to the soldiers, but will pay them out of his own salary next May if the Colonial Treasury should fail. Invites suggestions for the good of the country during the present cheapness of tobacco. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LXXXIV., pp. 59–64.]
June 8. 1377. Answer of the Assembly of Virginia to Governor Lord Culpeper's speech. Demonstrating the state of affairs in relation to the Indians and other things (concerning the late rebellion, &c.) contained in his Excellency's speech at the beginning of this General Assembly. Endorsed, "Recd. from the Earl of Sunderland. 17 Sept. '80." 2 pp. Duplicate and Triplicate of the above. [Col. Papers, Vol. XLV., Nos. 5–7.]
June 8. 1378. Acts of the General Assembly of Virginia:—
1. Act of Free Pardon, Indemnity, and Oblivion.
2. Act for Naturalization.
3. Act for raising Public Revenue.
4. Act for continuation of the Fortifications and Garrisons.
5. Act for Cohabitation and encouragement of Trade Manufacture.
6. Act for imposing and ascertaining Attorney's fees.
7. Act to ascertain the time when Negre children shall be titheable.
8. Act to license a Free Trade with Indians.
9. Act to ascertain Allowances for Cask.
10. Act for preventing Negro insurrections.
11. Act for presentation and delivery of Grievances.
12. Act to prohibit export of Raw Hides and Doe Skins.
13. Act against unlawful disturbance of Divine Service.
14. Act to revive the Act of 20th October 1665.
15. Act to clear Rivers from Logs.
16. Act to fix additional fees of County Court Clerks.
[Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LXXX., pp. 386, 387.]
June 8.
James City.
1379. Certificate signed by Nicholas Spencer, Secretary, by order of the Council, and by Thomas Ballard, Speaker of the Assembly. Certifying to His Majesty that the sum of 300l. is legally due to Lady Berkeley as executrix to her deceased husband Sir William, as well by virtue of his Royal instructions as by Act of Assembly, for his salary, he having duly exercised the office of Governor from 10th February to 6th May 1677. 1 p. [Col. Papers, Vol. XLV., No. 8.]
June 8. 1380. Minutes of Council of Barbadoes. Ordered, that the letter from the Lords of Trade and Plantations (dated 14th January) to the Governor and Council be entered in the Council Book.
June 9. Order, on the Circular of 14th January from the Lords of Trade and Plantations, that Roger Cowley and Richard Trant, Subcommissioners of the farmers of the 4½ per cent. duty, supply the returns in exports, Abraham Langford, Clerk of the Naval Office, those of the shipping. Directions from the same Circular conveyed to the Clerk of Assembly by Edwin Stede. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. XI., pp. 315–317.]
June 9. 1381. Journal of Assembly of Barbadoes. Colonel Guy appointed Speaker. Letter of 14th January from the Lords of Trade and Plantations to the Clerk of Assembly read, and the Clerk directed to comply therewith. Bills of replevins, habeas corpus, and for prohibition of negroes from learning a trade, sent up to the Council and Governor. Order for payment of 300l. to Colonel John Stanfast for one year's rent of Fontabelle plantation as a residence for the Governor for the present year, the five years term for which it was taken having expired last February. Adjourned to 6th July. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. XIII., pp. 388, 390.]
June 9.
Barbadoes.
1382. The Clerk of the Assembly of Barbadoes to Lords of Trade and Plantations. Your Lordships' letter of 14th January received, which gave great satisfacation to the Assembly. Your orders shall be obeyed. Signed, John Higinbotham. Inscribed, Recd, 13 Aug. 1680. [Col. Papers, Vol. XLV., No. 9, and Col. Entry Bk., Vol. VII., p. 21.]
June 9.
Boston.
1383. Edward Randolph to the Commissioners of the Customs. Gives an account of the trial on the seizure of the Expectation, with his pleas and the rebutting arguments used by the attorney for the defence, among which was that the Commissioners of the Customs had no power to depute an officer to act in that country. The jury, consisting of either merchants or masters of the ships, found for the defendant. Expects hourly to be seized and cast into prison, has no means of raising money except by a bill on their Honours if they will accept it. As to the ketch Industry, laden with tobacco, seized in March at Piscataqua, hopes care will be taken for an effectual rehearing by Commission, else the clearest forfeiture will escape. Impossible to go on board any but empty hulls except by forcing an entry with violence. Endorsed, Recd. 20 Aug. 1680. 3 pp. [Col. Papers, Vol. XLV., No. 10.] Enclosed,
1383. i. Papers concerning Proceedings on the Seizure of the pink Expectation:—(1.) Order of Governor Simon Bradstreet to the marshals of the counties to assist E. Randolph, 9th March 1679–80. (2.) Seizure of the ship by Joseph Webb, Marshal, 2nd June 1680. (3.) Warrant from Secretary Rawson to Edward Mitchelson Marshal-General, directing him to summon Thomas Grecian for trial on 8th June 1680, dated 3rd June 1680. (5.) Information of Edward Randolph against Thomas Grecian, 3rd June 1680. (6.) Copy of the Judgment of the Court of Assistants. Verdict for the Defendant Thomas Grecian, 8th June 1680. (7.) Depositions of John Purvise and Stephen Munday. (8.) Security that the pink will unlade commodities in some port of England, Wales, or the town of Berwick, 10th August 1679. (9.) Clearing for some goods on board the Two Sisters of Minehead, 10th December 1679. (10.) Order for the transference of goods from the Two Sisters to the Expectation, 10th March 1679. (11.) Deposition of Griffin Edwards, 8th June 1680. (12.) Affidavit of Paul Dudley, 8th June 1680, and answers on examination. Copies. 6 pp. [Col. Papers, Vol. XLV., No. 101.]
June 9. 1384. Minutes of House of Burgesses of Virginia. Address to the Governor praying to know his Excellency's pleasure concerning sending forth a Committee for the trial of private causes. Address praying that Robert Beverly be continued as Clerk. Minute of Council approving the choice of Beverly. (The address is also dated 11th, but 9th appears to be correct.) [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LXXXIV., pp. 69, 70.]
June 10. 1385. Minutes of House of Burgesses of Virginia. Address in reply to the Governor's speech, desiring to be favoured with a copy of the heads of his "most noble speech and charge." Address to the Governor, praying for issue of fresh writs for New Kent, Mr. John Langton being incapable by law of sitting as Burgess, and for Lancaster, Colonel St. Leger Codd being already elected for Northumberland. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LXXXIV., pp. 67, 68.]
June 10. 1386. Journal of Lords of Trade and Plantations. Copy of the heads of inquiry yearly transmitted to the convoys of Newfoundland read and approved, with the addition of a third inquiry, as to the number, condition, and distance one from another of the stages kept by the planters or adventurers.
Sir William Stapleton's letter of 1st April read (ante, No. 1337). Agreed that ten barrels of powder be sent to him, and the Commissioners of the Admiralty requested to provide their ships better with powder in future. Mem.—On a report in Council the Commissioners of Ordnance were directed to place the ten barrels of powder on board the Norwich frigate.
Sir Jonathan Atkins' letter of 26th March (ante, No. 1334), with its enclosures, read. The Lords observing mention of letters sent to Mr. Secretary Coventry, and hearing that all such papers had been delivered to Lord Sunderland, desire that his Lordship transmit them to the Committee. Colonel Drax and Sir Peter Colleton summoned to attend next meeting, and divers questions prepared to be put to them as there seem to be many mistakes in the computation of the lists sent by Sir J. Atkins. Ordered also that the Commissioners of Customs furnish a list of the ships laden with the "enumerated commodities" that came to England from Barbadoes between 14th April 1678 and 14th October 1679, the number given by Sir J. Atkins appearing to be incorrect. Ordered further that Mr. Sergeant Baldwin attend next meeting with his report on the laws of Barbadoes. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. CVI., pp. 169–172.]
June 10.
Council Chambers.
1387. [William Blathwayt] to Mr. Guy. The Lords of Trade and Plantations desire the Commissioners of Customs to inform them of the number of ships, with their burthen, which have come to England from Barbadoes since the 1st January 1678, and what returns they have had from their officers there; together with any other accounts that they may be able to offer respecting the trade of Barbadoes. Draft. 1 p. [Col. Papers, Vol. XLV., No. 11.]
June 12. 1388. Governor Bradstreet to the Earl of Sunderland. I gave in May an account of our observance of His Majesty's commands of July 1679, to which we add the following particulars. A committee has been appointed to review the laws, for the purpose of repealing any repugnant to the laws of England or derogatory to His Majesty's dignity. Concerning liberty of conscience, a chief design in our fathers' coming thither was to enjoy freedom, but we presume that His Majesty does not intend that a multitude of notorious errors, heresies, and blasphemies should be broached amongst us, as by the Quakers, &c. As to other protestant dissenters that carry it peaceably, there shall be no cause of just complaint on their behalf. We have long since, in obedience to His Majesty's pleasure, removed restrictions on admission to the freedom of our Company. To be of a different persuasion from us in matters of external worship (and in particular to desire to serve God in the way of the Church of England) is no part of that heterodoxy in religion which our present law provides against. We are sorry that any acting of ours with reference to Maine should be displeasing to His Majesty; but having submitted to His Majesty's decision adjudging it to Mr. Gorges, who offered it for sale for about twelve months ago, we, considering the money and lives that had been spent in the defence of the province and being assured of the inclination of the generality of the inhabitants, made a purchase thereof. We beg His Majesty's excuse for not sending over other agents, and the rather for that we understand His Majesty and Privy Council are taken up with matters of greater importance, to which we add our low condition owing to the vast charges of the late war, to the great debts abiding heavy on us, and to the late wasting fire in our principal town. The great hazard of the seas creates a backwardness in persons most suitable to be employed as agents, for we have already lost five or six of our vessels by Turkish pirates, and many of our inhabitants continue in miserable captivity among them. Signed in the name of the General Court, Simon Bradstreet, Governor. 2 pp. [Col. Papers, Vol, XLV., No. 12, and Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LXI., pp. 94–99.]
June 13. 1389. List of Lords Proprietors of Carolina, and the apportionment of their patronage.
Earl of Craven, Palatine, to nominate a Governor.
Earl of Shaftesbury, Chancellor, to nominate a Secretary.
Sir Peter Colleton, High Steward, to nominate a Surveyor.
Duke of Albemarle, High Constable, to nominate all military officers.
Lord Carteret, High Chamberlain, to nominate a Registrar of Births, Burials, &c.
Seth Sothell, Esq., Admiral, to nominate a Provost Marshall.
John Archdall, Esq., Chief Justice, to nominate a Registrar of Writing, &c.
The Treasurer to nominate a Receiver.
[Col. Entry Bk., Vol. XX., p. 145.]
June 14. 1390. Journal of Lords of Trade and Plantations. Read, the Petition of William Penn, referred by an order of Lord Sunderland of 1st June, praying that in consideration of debts due to him or to his father from the Crown a tract of land in America may be granted to him by Letters Patent, such tract to be bounded to south by Maryland, to the west as Maryland, to the east by the Delaware, and to north to extend as far as plantable. Mr. Penn called in, and being asked what bounds he will accept to northward declares himself satisfied with three degrees, and in lieu of such a grant he is willing to remit the King's debt to him or some part thereof and wait for the remainder till the King shall be in better condition to satisfy it. Ordered upon the whole matter, that copies of the petition be sent to Sir John Werden, on behalf of the Duke of York, and to the agents of Lord Baltimore, to ascertain how far Mr. Penn's pretensions may consist with the boundaries of Maryland and New York.
Sir Peter Colleton called in and attended by Mr. Chaplin (Colonel Drax being in the country) and several questions drawn from Sir Jonathan Atkins' letter of 26th March last put to him; to which he answers (1) That he knows of no laws made since October 1678; (2) That there are two regiments of horse of 800 men each, and an independent troop of 80; six regiments of foot of about 700 men each, in all 5,880; and that the militia is considerably decreased for want of white servants. (Their Lordships resolve to take this question into serious consideration at some future time.) (3) That the number of inhabitants certainly exceeds the 6,000 given by Sir Jonathan Atkins, this figure probably not including the wives, children and servants. (4) The number of ships, 51, given by Sir Jonathan Atkins, must be a mistake; above 200 generally trade from Barbadoes every year and in one year 270. (5) He understood that the proposals delivered by himself and Colonel Drax touching the 4½ per cent. duty were approved by the Governor and Council. (6) He knows of no account of exports kept in the Island. Thereupon the heads of a letter in answer to Sir Jonathan Atkins were read and approved. Mr. Serjeant Baldwin presented his report on the laws of Barbadoes (see next abstract).
Their Lordships hearing that there is nothing in the charters or patents of New England against imposing the oath of allegiance direct letters to be prepared, ordering the several Colonies to take the oath of allegiance, and such rules as are already enjoined in the last letters to Massachusetts to be observed in the making of freemen and magistrates. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. CVI., pp. 173–177.]
(June 14.) 1391. Samuel Baldwin to Lords of Trade and Plantations. In obedience to Order in Council of 24th July 1679, I have examined the laws of Barbadoes from the year 1660 to 1672. I find them good, though not always consonant with the laws of England, as, for instance, that negro slaves are to be tried for capital offences not by a jury but summarily before two justices of the peace, and that negroes are punishable more severely than others for like offences. Yet I consider the laws concerning negroes to be reasonable, for by reason of their numbers they become dangerous, being a brutish sort of people and reckoned as goods and chattels in the Island. 1 p. [Col. Papers, Vol. XLV., No. 13, and Col. Entry Bk., Vol. VII., p. 6.]
June 15.
Antigua.
1392. The Governor and Council of Antigua to Lords of Trade and Plantations. Acknowledgment of Circular of 14th January. We are sincerely obliged for your Lordships' care of us, and of the King's interest, which latter would be much advanced by the devotion of the 4½ per cent. duty to the completion of the fortifications of this Island. The trade inward and outward goes in good current; ecclesiastical affairs are in good order and agreement with the Church of England; in military matters our General [Stapleton] takes care to cause expertness in arms by "often exercise and examination of the soldiers' abilities." Our laws have already been sent to you. The French, our neighbours, are well furnished with ships; we would press upon you the great need of a frigate for the King's service in these parts. "Your Lordships well know that good and well equipped frigates are the brazen walls of islands," and we need them not only for defence but for attack on the adversary. We thank you for the 1,500l. procured for our fortifications. Signed, Val. Russell, Rich. Ayres, John Cade, Paul Lee, Will. Thomas, James Vaughan, Row. Williams. Endorsed, Recd. 15th October 1680. Read 17th September 1681. 2 pp. [Col. Papers, Vol. XLV., No. 14, and Col. Entry Bk., Vol. XLVI., pp. 437–439.]
June 15. 1393. Commission from Anthony, Earl of Shaftesbury, Chancellor of Carolina, to Andrew Perceval. Appointing him Secretary of Carolina. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. XX., p. 153.]
June 15.
Nevis.
1394. Copy of warrant to the Provost Marshal of Nevis to take a sloop, said to be an "interloper," in a by-road of the Island, and bring her under the guns of Charlestown, and if she prove to be an interloper to seize her and the negroes on board her. Certified by Cæsar Rodeney, Provost Marshal. [Col. Papers, Vol. XLV., No. 15.]
June 16.
Council Chamber.
1395. [William Blath wayt] to Mr. Brisbane. Representing to the Admiralty Sir William Stapleton's complaints as to the ill-provision of the ketch Deptford with powder (ante, No. 1337). Draft. 1 p. [Col. Papers, Vol. XLV., No. 16.]
June 16. 1396. Journal of House of Burgesses of Virginia. Ordered by the House that his Excellency be asked to signify his pleasure concerning Colonel Clayborne's petition for sale of certain stray horses in his possession. His Excellency gave directions in accordance with the Act.
June 18. Petition of Lieutenant-Colonel Jones referred to House of Burgesses. Acts of Indemnity and Oblivion and Act of Naturalization. Report of Committee on the Bill of Revenue, recommending that the former Bill be continued, and that the House desire humbly to be excused if it give not its approbation to His Majesty's Bill now before it.
June 19. Order of the Governor for a conference between the House of Burgesses, on their vote of yesterday. The Council's representatives to be Colonels Nicholas Spencer, Nathaniel Bacon, John Bridger, William Cole.
Resolution of the House of Burgesses to take part in the conference. Colonel John Page, Major Isaac Allerton, Charles Scarbargh, John Carter, John Armsteed, John Burnham, William Lloyd, William Fitzhugh, William Waters, John West to be representatives. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LXXXIV., pp. 71–74.]
June 18. 1397. Affidavit of Samuel Harding of London, citizen and baker, a chirurgeon by profession. Sailed in the pink Francis, Mingham master, to Jamaica in October. Just before they started a letter came on board, enclosing a petition to the King in Council and an Order thereupon, both signed by Sir Philip Lloyd, which on arriving at Jamaica Mingham delivered to deponent with orders to serve one copy on Sir Henry Morgan and the other on Mr. Thomas Martin, both of whom shortly after sued Mingham and obtained damages against him. [The story of the succeeding abstract is repeated with little variation.] Mingham remains imprisoned and Peter Bennett was forced to bring the ship home, to the great loss of the said Mingham, who stands condemned to pay heavy damages for nothing else than pretended scandal in the petition.
Deposition of Alexander Ekyns, mariner, in confirmation, 22nd June. 3 pp. [Col. Papers, Vol. XLV., No. 17.]
June 18. 1398. Affidavit of Peter Bennett, master of the ship Francis of London, a pink. The case of Francis Mingham, who was cast in 2,000l. damages in an action brought against him by Sir Henry Morgan for defamation. Deponent declares that Mingham was illegally arrested before this fourteen days of grace after judgment were expired, and imprisoned in the gaol with the slaves and common "rouges" till he consented to fortify a room above stairs for his confinement, which cost him sixteen pounds. 2 pp. [Col. Papers, Vol. XLV., No. 18.]
June 18.
Barbadoes.
1399. The Governor an Council of Barbadoes to Lords of Trade and Plantations. Your Lordship's letter of 14th January (ante, No. 1262), duly received and noted. Signed by Sir Jonathan Atkins and ten members of Council. Inscribed, Recd. 13 Aug. 1683. 1 p. [Col. Papers Vol. XLV., No. 19, and Col. Entry Bk., Vol. VII., pp. 20 and53.]
June 19.
Nevis.
1400. Council of Nevis to Lords of Trade and Plantations. Verbatim the same, except in one or two small particulars as the letter from the Council of Antigua (ante, No. 1392). Signed, E. Bridgewater, William Burt, Jos. Gorge, Daniel Lanhather, Charles Pym, Nich. Raynsford, James Russell, John Smith, Walter Symonds. Endorsed, Recd. 15 Oct. 1680, Read 17 Sept. 1681. 1½ pp. [Col. Papers, Vol. XLV., No. 20, and Col Entry Bk., Vol. XLVI., pp. 443, 444.]
June 20.
Barbadoes.
1401. Edwyn Stede, Secretary of Barbadoes, to William Blathwayt. Yours of 29th January received by the hand of Mr. Richard Bate, and some time before it your letter of 14th January. Your orders shall be obeyed. The Clerk of Assembly, the Council and the Governor have, I believe, fulfilled your instructions in the transmission of documents. 1 p. Inscribed, Recd. 13 Aug. 1680. [Col. Papers, Vol. XLV., No. 21.]
June 22.
Barbadoes.
1402. Governor Sir Jonathan Atkins to [William Blathwayt]. The Richmond frigate arrived here to-day from Carolina. She learned from a French ship that she met at sea that Monsieur d'Estrees is come with twelve sail of frigates to Martinico. I cannot guess his errand. They report that he is last from Lisbon, when it was said that he was to cruise on the Coast of Barbary to look after the Sally men, but now they say he is to coast about the Islands of America, so I thought fit to inform of you hereof. This news came after my packet was made up and aboard of Captain Warrior. Whatever their business, we shall do our best to look to ourselves. I forgot in my last to remind you to obtain confirmation of Mr. Benjamin Knight's appointment to the Council, who was put in by me according to my Patent, the number being under nine. 1 p. Holograph. [Col. Papers, Vol. XLV., No. 22, and Col. Entry Bk., VII., p. 21.]
June 23.
St. James' Plantations General.
1403. Sir J. Werden to William Blathwayt. By all that I can observe of the boundaries mentioned in Mr. Penn's petition they agree well enough with that Colony which has hitherto (since the conquest of New York by Colonel Nicholls) been held as an appendix and part of the Government of New York by the name of Delaware Colony, or more particularly Newcastle Colony (that being the name of a principal place in it, the whole being planted promiscuously by Swedes, Finlanders, Dutch, and English), all of which hath been under the government of the Duke of York's Lieutenant hitherto. But what are its proper boundaries (those of latitude and longitude being so very little known, and so ill observed, as experience tells us, in the West Indies) I am unable to say. If this be what Mr. Penn would have, I presume the Lords of Trade and Plantations will not encourage his pretensions to it, because of what is above-mentioned, which plainly shows the Duke's right preferable to all others, though it should not prove to be strictly within the Duke's Patent. But if it be any other parcel of land unimproved in those parts, which is without all other patents, and does not interfere with the possessions of English subjects already settled there, I submit it to their Lordships how far they may think it convenient, under fitting restrictions, to recommend the Petitioner's request to His Majesty. Holograph. 1½ p. [Col. Papers, Vol. XLV., No. 23.]
June 23.
Plantations General.
1404. Lord Baltimore's Agents to [William Blathwayt]. We have to offer the following remarks respecting Mr. Penn's petition in reference to the public on Lord Baltimore's behalf. It is desired that if the grant of land to Mr. Penn be passed, it may be expressed to be of "land that shall lie north of Susquehanna Fort and north of all lands in a direct line between the said fort and Delaware River, and also north of all lands upon a direct line westward of the said fort; for that fort is the boundary of Mary land northward." It is further desired that there may be general words of reservation as to any interest granted to Lord Baltimore, and saving to him all rights granted; also that Lord Baltimore's Council be allowed a sight of the grant before it be passed. On behalf of the public it is suggested that due precautions be taken that no arms or ammunition shall be sold to the Indians or natives by any settlers in the new plantation whereby a common mischief may happen to all the King's plantations. This with our thanks in Lord Baltimore's behalf for your care of his interests. Signed, Barnaby Dunch, Rich. Burke. Endorsed, "From Lord Baltimore's Agents about Mr. Penn's pretensions. Rec. same day." 1 p. [Col. Papers, Vol. XLV., No. 24.]
June 23.
Whitehall.
1405. Order of the King in Council. That Mr. Attorney and Mr. Solicitor General attend His Majesty's Judges and desire them to assemble with all convenient speed and confer with them concerning this question, viz., Whether by his letter, proclamation or Commissions annexed His Majesty hath excluded himself from the power of establishing laws in Jamaica, it being a conquered country and all laws settled by authority there being now expired: and that upon receiving the opinion of the Judges under their hands in writing they report the same to the Lords of Trade and Plantations. 1 p. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. XXIX., p. 381.]
June 23. 1406. William Blathwayt to the Attorney and Solicitor General. Encloses an Order in Council (see preceding abstract), with a question which His Majesty's judges are requested to answer instead of the two questions referred to them by the Committee of Plantations on 27th April. The King's letter and proclamations referred to in the Order are enclosed, together with a paper containing the past and present state of the Government. The Address of the Jamaica Assembly shall be sent also if required. 1 p. [Col. Papers, Vol. XLV., No. 25.]
June 23. 1407. List of all ships that have laden any of the enumerated Plantation commodities in the Island of Barbadoes from 14th October 1679 to 14th April 1860. Total, 50 ships, with masters' names. Signed by Sir Jon. Atkins, Govr., and Abraham Langford, Clerk of the Naval Office. Endorsed "Rec. from Sir J. Atkins 23 June 1680." [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. X., No. 1.]
June 23. 1408. Journal of House of Burgesses of Virginia. Question put whether, upon report of the gentlemen appointed for the Conference of the arguments used, there be further debate on the passing or not passing of His Majesty's Revenue Bill. Carried in the negative. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LXXXIV., p. 74.]
June 24. Governor Lord Culpeper's speech to the House of Burgesses on their behaviour of the previous day. Rating them soundly for wasting time and for unparliamentary conduct, and warning them on the consequences of their action; for that they have arrogated to themselves a power never assumed by the House of Commons till it had swept away both King and Lords. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LXXXIV., pp. 64–67.]
Address of the House to the Governor, signifying that they have voted to reassume the debate on the King's Revenue Bill, and asking for a copy of his speech.
June 25. Address of the House to the Governor for a Conference between the House and the Council, with names of the members to represent it. Message of the Governor to the House appointing the same members of Council as on 19th June to represent it at the Conference. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LXXXIV., pp. 75, 76.] Dated 15th, in original, evidently by error.
June 26. Proposals of amendments to the King's Revenue Bill sent by the Burgesses to the Governor and Council; that previous Revenue Acts be repealed, but two Acts reserving privileges of Virginian ship owners, and freeing Virginia from cash duties, be maintained. (Dated 20th in original, evidently by error.) Address informing the Governor that they are ready to pass the Bill with these amendments, but not without them. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LXXXIV., pp. 76–79.]
June 25. 1409. Journal of Lords of Trade and Plantations. Mr. Penn's petition again read, together with letters from Sir J. Werden and Lord Baltimore's agent (see Nos. 1403, 1404), and Mr. Penn called in and acquainted that he must apply himself to the Duke of York for part of the territory that he desires. Being informed of the letter from Lord Baltimore's agents he agrees that Susquehannah Fort shall be the bounds of Lord Baltimore's province. As to furnishing the Indians with arms and ammunition, he is ready to submit to any restraint that the Lords shall propose. Agreed hereupon to send orders to all the English plantations upon the northern continent not to furnish the Indians with arms or ammunition. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. CVI., pp. 178, 179.]
June 28. 1410. Journal of Council of Virginia. Message agreeing to the Burgesses' proposals of 26th June. Acts of Pardon, of Naturalisation, and Revenue passed unanimously. Proposals of the various counties on various subjects considered.
June 29. Message from the Governor to the Burgesses offering his good offices in the matter of cessation.
June 30. The Council's amendments on the Committee's report of claims in the various counties. The Council's opinion that Henry Hartwell should receive 15,000 lbs. of tobacco in consideration of the greater burden of clerical work laid upon him. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LXXXIV., pp. 79–87.]
June 29. 1411. Petition of Thomas Miller to the King. Setting forth his sufferings during the late rebellion in Albemarle County, Carolina, his imprisonment and escape to England, the interference of the Earl of Shaftesbury in favour of John Culpeper, a notorious ringleader, who was proved guilty. Nothing has been done upon the proposals of the Commissioners of Customs for recovery of arrears and compensation to petitioner and his deputies. Prays for consideration of his distressed condition and that of the inhabitants of Albemarle. Inscribed, Read in Council 30th June 1680. Nothing done. Read 20th Nov. 1680. [Col. Papers, Vol. XLV., No. 26.]
June 30. 1412. A List of the Parishes and Ministers in Virginia:—
Henrico County Varina. John Ball.
Half Bristol
Charles City County. Half Bristol Readers only.
Jordan
Westover
Weyonoak.
Martin Brandon Mr. Paul Williams.
Surrey ounty Southwark Mr. John Clough.
Lacon's Creek Mr. John Moyre.
James City County. Martin's Hundred Mr. Rowland Jones.
Half Brewton
James City
Wallingford
Wilmington Mr. Thomas Hampton.
Isle of Wight Isle of Wight Parish Mr. Robert Park.
Long Parish Mr. William Housden.
Nancymond Upper Parish Mr. John Gregory.
Lower Parish Mr. John Wood.
Chuckatuck Parish Mr. William Housden.
Warwick County Denby Mr. John Laurence.
Mulberry Island
Elizabeth City County. Mr. John Page.
Lower Norfolk Elizabeth River Parish. Mr. William Nern.
Lynhaven Parish Mr. James Porter.
York County Half Brewton Mr. Rowland Jones.
Hampton Parish Mr. Edward Foliott
New Pocoson Parish. Mr. John Wright.
York Parish
New Kent South Side:—
St. Peter's Parish Mr. William Sellick
Blissland's Parish Mr. Thomas Taylor.
North Side:—
St. Steven's Parish Mr. William Williams.
Stratton Major Mr. Robert Carr.
Gloucester County. Kington Mr. Michael Zyperius.
Ware Parish Mr. Clark
Petsoe Parish Mr. Thomas Vicars.
Abington Mr. John Gwynn.
Middlesex County. Christchurch Parish Mr. John Sheppard.
Rappahannock County. Farnham Mr. Charles Dacres.
Sydenburn Mr. Dudley.
Stafford County Stafford Parish Mr. John Wough.
Choatauck
Westmoreland County. Copeland Parish Mr. Scrinnington.
Waslington Mr. William Butler.
Northumberland County. Fairfield Mr. John Farnefold.
Wiccacommito Mr. Dawes.
Accomack Accomack Parish Mr. Henry Parkes.
Northampton County Northampton Parish Mr. Thomas Teagle.
Hunger's Parish
Lancaster County. Christchurch Mr. Ben. Doggett.
Whitechapel
[Col. Papers, Vol. XLV., No. 27.]
[June 30.] 1413. Address of the President and Council of New Hampshire to the King. It having pleased your Majesty to separate us from that shadow of his authority and government in the hands of the Massachusetts, under which we had long protection, especially in the late war with the barbarous natives, who had certainly been our ruin had not our brethren and neighbours stretched forth their helping hands, nevertheless, on receipt of your Majesty's pleasure delivered by Edward Randolph on 1st January, commanding the erecting of a new government over our four towns, although deeply sensible of the disadvantages like to accrue to us, more especially by the multiplying of small and weak governments, unfit for either offence or defence (the union of the Colonies having been more than a little instrumental in our preservation), we have taken the oaths and administered the oath of allegiance to the inhabitants, and convened a General Assembly for regulating the common affairs, having special regard to the Acts of Trade and Navigation. And if some obstruction occasioned by such as make high pretence to His Majesty's favour had not hindered, we might have brought matters to greater maturity, yet we hope to perfect something by the first opportunity of shipping from hence. But meanwhile we thought fit to make this our acknowledgment for His Majesty's favour in committing the Government into such hands, not imposing strangers upon us, which much comforts us against any pretended claims to their soil. Signed, John Cutt. Endorsed, Recd. with a petition from the Province of Maine, 30th June 1680, from the E. of Sunderland. 1 p. [Col. Papers, Vol. XLV., No. 28.]
June 30. 1414. The President and Council of New Hampshire to the King. We gave an account of our allegiance and observance of your Majesty's commission by Mr. Joules in March last, so need not repeat it. Our General Assembly has been considering our laws and orders with special regard to the Statute Book, with which you honoured us, and for which, together with the seal of the Province, we offer our most hearty thanks. But such has been the hurry, owing to the shortness of our summer, that we have not had time to prepare anything for your Majesty's view, though we shall despatch the business as soon as we may. We are all quiet, and troubled only by pretended claimants to our soil, against whom we trust to your Royal favour for protection. We deeply lament that by the loss of the ship your Majesty's Royal effigies and Imperial arms, which you had sent us, are miscarried. We would suggest that the allowance of appeals according to the Commission may rather obstruct than further justice, and there are other little things therein which time and experience may show to be inconvenient, and which we shall in that case bring to your notice. Signed, John Cutt, President. Endorsed, Recd. 20th September 1680. [Col. Papers, Vol. XLV., No. 29, and Col. Entry Bk., Vol. LXI., pp. 99–101.]
[June 30.] 1415. Petition of the Inhabitants of Albemarle, County Carolina, to the King. Praying for assistance to suppress the rebels, and to secure the collection of the Customs. Signed by John Sturgeon, Andrew Wallwood, Robt. Scott, and twenty-six others. Endorsed, Read in Council, 30th June 1680. [Col. Papers, Vol. XLV., No. 30.]
[June ?] 1416. Petition of General Assembly of Virginia to the King. Petitioners have thankfully embraced the Acts of Pardon and Oblivion, and passed the Acts of Naturalisation and Revenue. Hope they may be confirmed. It is absolutely necessary that the office of Auditor should be executed by some trusted man resident in the country. Petitioners hear that Mr. Robert Ayleway had surreptitiously asked for a grant thereof, but was refused, for which petitioners are grateful. Pray that in future the Auditor may be appointed on the Governor's recommendation. Thanks for dismissal of the petition of Thomas Sands. Signed, Tho. Culpeper. Countersigned, Tho. Ballard. 1 p. [Col. Papers, Vol. XLV., No. 31.]
[June ?] 1417. Petition of Robert Ayleway to Lords of Trade and Plantations. Held the office of Auditor-General of Virginia by Patent, until Lord Culpeper arrived, who took objection to the Patent and rejected it. Prays for reinstatement (see preceding abstract). [Col. Papers, Vol. XLV., No. 32.]