|
| Sept. 5. |
919. Grant to Robert Clowes of the office of Chief Clerk to attend the Supreme Court in St. Jago de La Vega in Jamaica, with power to sign writs, decrees, and keep records by himself or deputy during life, with all profits thereto belonging (see No. 924). [Dom. Chas. II. Docquets.] |
Sept. 5.
Surinam. |
920. Abstracts of Letters from P. Vorsterre, "seeming the chief agent in Surinam," to the Committee of the States of Zealand. All things quiet and in good state, longing for ships from home and news of a victory. The English planters begin to doubt of their countrymen's coming, and pray God they may not, as the Dutch do; yet believes they will come towards winter, and therefore doubts not their Lordships will also send ships as oft promised, for (by deaths and sickness) he is fallen to 200 men only, counting too the Dutch planters and merchants, and the masters and seamen of their ships, three of which lie ready to depart, when a great weakening will ensue. The sick are 50 or 60, eight of the new men dead and more like to follow for want of refreshings, having nothing to eat but rotten bacon, peas and gruts, and but little of that. Is daily besieged by their comrades for some comfortable thing, which it is impossible for him to supply with his small wages, nor are there any medicaments at the Chirurgeon's, who in many years has had no supplies from the State. The officers are not one jot better treated, but live in want of wine, bread, butter, cheese, good pork and flesh; and he desires that for the future the public magazine may be better furnished. Has not left for above six weeks of pork, and three of cassaire bread, nor knows where to get more, the cassaire being all spoiled by the extreme wet, so that of 5,000 lb. or 6,000 lb. promised they could not make 600 lb. Most planters' negroes have nought to eat but the greens they pick in the fields. Once seized all the inhabitants' provisions, who came in troops clamouring that it was cutting their throats, so that he was forced to desist and "let them have some James." Some bread might be got from Indians on other rivers, but he has not a piece of trade goods left. Calls God to witness it is not his fault, the country not being able to maintain itself without supplies of men and provisions, so that he is little less than in despair, being subject every hour to be invaded by a powerful enemy; meanwhile he has appointed three fasts to supplicate God's extraordinary help. The English prisoners are very quiet, being mostly very sick, vizt., Capts. Render and Vermiman, and Mr. Knight, with little hope of life; detained them there, for as soon as the negroes heard their masters were sent away prisoners they fell to mutiny against their overseers, and killed an Englishman; three are shot dead, and the rest pursued. His fortification is complete, and in good defence had he men, yet doubts not to keep his trust till another be sent to take his place. A report brought by Indians from Corentyn of one Peter Raedt come into that river to take negroes as he did at Cajana in times of peace; has sent a pinnace and boat to take him if possible. A shallop or rowbarge sent him was sunk. Gave allowance daily to the soldiers that laboured at the fort, wherewith they bought provisions of Schipper Jacob Soeteling; whereupon he draws a bill on their Lordships for 400 gilders, and another for 150 for calicoes, train oil, and brandy for the Public Magazine. Another of the same date to Mr. Gaspar Ingelse, one of the same body of the Admiralty in Zealand. Notifies the death of Roger Dickenson; what order he had taken to supply his overseership; and what sugars are sent by several vessels. Briefly repeats "the bleeding concerns" mentioned above, and insists to be "repealed" and advanced to some good employ at home in consideration of his service. 2 pp. [Col. Papers, Vol. XXIX., No. 25.] |
Sept. 8.
Jamaica. |
921. Sir Thos. Lynch, Gov. of Jamaica, to Capt. John Wentworth, Gov. of New Providence (Bahamas) and the islands adjacent. Has received his letter of 23 Aug. [see No. 916], and is sorry he cannot supply them according to their desires. Remitted his last letter to the Council in March, and expects answer by the first ships from England, for the Council are concerned for the remotest of his Majesty's subjects; but this busy and bloody conjuncture has put a stop to all affairs and ships. As yet there is no appearance of war with Spain, and hopes the Dutch will rather be considering of quenching their own than setting another's house on fire, nor can he think the wealth of their islands sufficient inducement for a privateer to come among their shoals; however, sends some powder and shot for the arms they have, and "defend yourselves as well as possible till you are better supplied." Arms here are very dear, and stores the King has none, every planter buying for himself, which is but needful, for he is just now advised a Dutch man-of-war of 42 guns is on the coast; nor have they great guns sufficient to mount in a fort they are building at Bonham's Point, and if they had this boat could not carry them. Has sent a commission, as his Council and Assembly desire, for his Majesty's subjects are too apt to contemn his laws when they have them, and may therefore be well disorderly without them, and hopes he invades nobody's right in renewing Sir T. Modyford's commission to him till the King give other orders. Wishes they were all well settled at Carolina or here, considering they can never in those islands be convenient, safe, or rich. In 30 years Barbadoes, Nevis, St. Christopher's, &c. are declining, and few have clear estates, for ill neighbours, and want of ports, river, timber, pasture and quantities of land (which he supposes is their case) make their interest hazardous and inconsiderable. Told them formerly that three ships were fitted out of the Havana to destroy them and Carolina, and that "the Norths" and "your shoals saved you"; Cuba so interposes that it is impossible for them to have any frequent communication with Jamaica. Least of all understands what they propose for trade, and wishes they had informed him; supposes the Council will only consider whether they increase the King's customs and English navigation, strengthen the colonies abroad, lye convenient for commerce, or can produce something extraordinary. The master says the ambergris and brazilletto trades fail, now they have no interlopers, and that so much as a New England man does not come near them, for tobacco is the veriest drug in the world, and cotton, indigo, ginger, cocoa, and sugar do not grow well out of the tropics; "but I do not make a judgment of a place I never saw, nor will I at all discourage you, but in everything I can assist you." Only passionately wishes they were settled where they might have safety and riches as well as health, which your Bermudians are said to covet most of any people; Mrs. Guy and other Bermudians have had great success in Jamaica, only some few wanted health and beef, both which are more plentiful now, and it may be she makes this year 200,000 lbs. sugar, and had made half as much cocoa if it had not failed; "but this is not to tempt you hither," only to desire them to better inform him, and whatever he thinks of the islands will always think well of the people, and particularly of Wentworth, and be ready to serve them. 2 pp. [Col. Papers, Vol. XXIX., No. 26.] |
| [Sept. 13.] |
922. Petition of Robert Sims, Thomas Bates, William Wooley, and Abraham Summers to the King and Council. That they served his Majesty in the West Indies in Sir Tobias Bridge's regiment, were wounded and lost their limbs. Bates, Wooley, and Summers were continued on the muster rolls till the regiment marched out of Southwark, when they were dismissed without pay or debentures; and Sims going over as sergeant was made ensign, but cashiered by Sir T. Bridge contrary to the Rules of War, and sent away without any pay. Pray that the matter may be examined and petitioners relieved. "Read Sept 13, '72." 1 p. [Col. Papers, Vol. XXIX., No. 27.] |
| Sept. 16. |
923. Warrant to the Attorney-General. To prepare a Bill for the King's signature to pass under the Great Seal appointing Anthony Earl of Shaftesbury, George Viscount Halifax, Thomas Lord Culpeper, Richard Lord Gorges, William Lord Allington, Henry Brouncker, Sir Humphrey Winch, Sir John Finch, Edmund Waller, Henry Slingesby, Silas Titus, and John Evelyn a standing Council for all Affairs relating to Trade and Foreign Colonies and Plantations. 10 pp. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. XCIII., p. 70.] |
| Sept. 16. |
924. Patent creating an office of Chief Clerk to attend the Supreme Court at St. Jago de la Vega in Jamaica, and to sign and seal writs, enter decrees, and keep the records of the said court; and granting same to Robert Clowes of the Inner Temple, London, to exercise same by himself or deputies, for life, with all fees, profits, and advantages thereto belonging. 1 p. [Col. Papers, Vol. XXIX., No. 28.] |
Sept. 17.
Whitehall. |
925. Privy Seal for 700l. per annum to Col. Stapleton, Gov. of the Leeward Islands, during the time he shall remain Governor there, to commence from Midsummer last. Mem. only. [Dom. Entry Bk., Chas. II., Vol. XXXIV., p. 182.] |
Sept. 17.
Whitehall. |
926. Privy Seal for 2,778l. 10s. 8d. to Col. Stapleton for the entertainment of two companies of foot in the Leeward Islands. Mem. only. [Dom. Entry Bk., Chas., II., Vol. XXXIV., p. 182.] |
| Sept. 17. |
927. Minutes of the Council of Barbadoes. Present, Sir Peter Colleton, Bart., President, Henry Hawley, Chr. Codrington, Henry Drax, John Knights, Dan. Searle, Thos. Wardell, Sam. Farmer, and John Sparkes. Ordered, that the Proclamation and Commission sent by his Excellency concerning the Government of the island be proclaimed by the Provost Marshal this afternoon in the Market Place of St. Michael's Town; that George Hannay, late Provost Marshal, deliver up the gaol and all matters belonging to that place to Edwyn Stede, whom his Majesty has by letters patent constituted Provost Marshal-General of the island; that the President sign all papers formerly signed by the Governor, till the next Council sitting; that Col. Christopher Codrington take care of the several guards within the island till further order; and that Richard Noke execute the place of Secretary till the next sitting of the Council, no person appearing to lay claim to said office. 1 1/2 pp. [Col. Entry Bk., No. XI., 198–199.] |
| Sept. 20. |
928. A particular of monies disbursed by and due to Henry Slingesby, Secretary to the Council for Foreign Plantations, for the service of the Council, and of moneys owing to several officers and others attending said service, for two years ending at Midsummer, 1672, amounting to 1,866l. 11s. 11d. Annexed,
Warrant of the Council to Henry Slingesby. That out of the yearly sum of 1,000l. payable by virtue of his Majesty's commission to them out of his Majesty's Exchequer, he reimburse and pay to himself and others the several sums mentioned in the foregoing particular. 1672, Sept. 20. [Col. Entry Bk., No. XCIV., 110–112.] |
| [Sept. 20.] |
929. A similar particular for one quarter ending at Michaelmas, 1672, amounting to 204l. 19s. 10d.; with similar warrant for payment annexed. [Col. Entry Bk., No. XCIV., 112–114.] |
Sept. 23.
Westminster. |
930. Privy Seal to pay to Col. Wm. Stapleton as Governor of St. Christopher 700l. per annum, half-yearly, the first payment to commence from the Feast of St. John the Baptist last passed, and to continue payable yearly whilst he remain Governor there, until said island shall be in a condition to pay him the like sum, but to abate in proportion as any part thereof shall arise from said island. 1 p. [Col. Papers, Vol. XXIX., No. 29.] |
Sept. 23.
Westminster. |
931. Privy Seal reciting the Privy Seal of 10th March 1671, to Sir Chas. Wheler, then Governor of the Leeward Islands, to pay 2,778l. 10s. 8d. for the entertainment of two foot companies of 80 men each in the Leeward Islands, and to pay the like sum to Col. Wm. Stapleton for the same purpose. 1 p. [Col. Papers, Vol. XXIX., No. 30.] |
Sept. 24.
[Virginia.] |
932. Ten Acts passed at a Grand Assembly holden at James City, 24 Sept., 24 Chas. II., 1672, the titles of which are as follows:—(1) An Act for the defence of the country; (2) An additional Act concerning orphans' estates; (3) An Act concerning tythables born in the country; (4) Limiting how long accounts shall be pleadable; (5) Concerning servants sold for the custom; (6) Concerning masters of shipps and collector; (7) For suppressing of vagabonds and disposing of poor children to trades; (8) For the apprehension and suppresion of runaway negroes and slaves; (9) Concerning swamps and marshes; (10) Concerning men's notes, how far pleadable against their estates, if dead. Also Payments on the public account (in lbs. of tobacco). Certified copy by Hen. Randolph, Clk. Assbly. 7 pp. [Col. Papers, Vol. XXIX., No. 31.] |
Sept. 26.
St. Jago. |
933. Minutes of the Council of Jamaica. On reading more attestations from Barbadoes concerning 16 negroes sent hither by one Peter Hayman, merchant, belonging to Abel Dean, and pretended to by Will. Dives, both of that island, which import that Col. Christopher Lyne and Walter Lathly believed said negroes belonged to Mr. Dives, whereupon the Governor and Council there referred the parties to a trial at law. Ordered, that the effects remain still in Anthony Swimmer's hands, till result of said trial be known. There having been a very liberal contribution from the inhabitants of Port Royal and most of the settlers and planters towards building a platform at Bonham's Point, and fortifying the port, ordered, that Lieut.-Col. Freeman, Capt. Bache, and Anthony Swimmer collect all such moneys subscribed at Port Royal, and contract with Col. Theodore Cary to oversee the work, and make all other bargains necessary for lime, stones, and other materials. Ordered, that whereas the north side of the island, not being well settled, is a retreat for runaway servants and slaves, who, unless taken will fall into parties, and it will be impossible to retrieve them, any person taking up a runaway servant or slave from the north side and bringing him to the Marshal at St. Jago or Port Royal shall receive 40s., but if two or three are brought together they shall be paid according to the Act. Ordered, that in all parishes where there are ministers either the parson or sexton keep a true account of all burials and christenings, which has been much neglected, and once a year deliver it to the churchwardens, who are to take care that a particular entry be made in the parish book; and that in all parishes where there are no ministers, and the inhabitants live at such distances from the parish church that they cannot conveniently bury there, and possibly the rites of burial are not used, all masters of families in such cases be obliged to give account of the death and birth of any in their families to the next Justice of the Peace, and he deliver it to the churchwardens, who are to enter it as aforesaid, so that a certain record be kept throughout the island for the future. Ordered, that whereas by the death of Mrs. Mosely, attorney to her husband, Capt. Wm. Mosely, there is no one to look after his interest, John Mosely be empowered to look after the plantation, cattle, and goods, and take care of the children till Capt. Mosely come himself or appoint some one to take it out of his hands; to whom said Mr. Mosely is to be accountable, giving good security not to embezzle anything belonging to said plantation, according to the inventory made by Saml. Lewis and George Hanbury, by the Governor's particular order. 4 1/2 pp. [Col. Entry Bk., No. XXXV., 328–332.] |
Sept. 27.
Westminster. |
934. Charter of Incorporation of the New Royal African Company. Whereas all the regions called Guinea, Binny, Angola and South Barbary in Africa, and the sole trade thereof, are the undoubted right of the Crown of England; and whereas the said trade is of great advantage to his Majesty's subjects, and for the improvement thereof several charters have been granted by his Majesty's progenitors, but all have proved ineffectual till his Majesty by letters patent of the 10th January 1663 granted the said regions to his Royal Consort Queen Katherine, Mary the Queen his mother, since deceased, James Duke of York, and others therein named in trust for the Company of Royal Adventurers trading into Africa, with such liberties and privileges as by the said letters patents may appear, whereby said trade is much advanced; but said company, having sustained great losses in the late wars, to enable them to pay their debts have treated with the persons hereafter named, and are become suitors to his Majesty to accept a surrender of their propriety and privilege in said regions, and to make said persons a new corporation for carrying on said trade; his Majesty tendring the advancement of said trade, has accepted said surrender, and hereby grants to James Duke of York, Anthony Earl of Shaftesbury, John Buckworth, Sir John Banks, John Bence, Esq., William Earl of Craven, Jarvis Cartwright, Samuel Dashwood, Sir Richard Ford, Thos. Farrington, Capt. Ferdinando Gorges, Edward Hopegood, John Jefferies, Sir Andrew King, Chas. Modyford, Esq., Saml. Moyer, Peter Proby, Gabriel Roberts, Sir John Shaw, Benjamin Skutt, Sir Robert Vyner, Thomas Vernon, Nicholas Warren, and Richard Young, their executors and assigns, all the regions and dominions extending from Sallee in South Barbary to Cape de Bona Esperanza, with all islands near adjoining, during the term of 1,000 years; rendering to his Majesty and his successors two elephants, whenever he or any of them shall land in said regions. Nevertheless this grant is in trust for the sole benefit of James Duke of York, Prince Rupert, Anthony Earl of Shaftesbury, Henry Earl of Arlington, Col. Wm. Ashburnham, Aldn. Robt. Ask, John Ashby, John Ayres, Thos. Aldworth, Russell Alsop, Richard Alic, and Thomas Andrewes, Duke of Buckingham, John Earl of Bath, George Lord Berkley of Berkley, Sir John Banks, Sir Thos. Blodworth, John Ball, John Bence, Richard Booth, John Buckworth, James Burkin, and John Bull, Mrs. Dorcas Birkhead, Edmond Bostock, Richard Beckford, Anthony Barnardiston, Joas Bateman, Edward Bouvery, Man Browne, John Beare, Richard Boys, John Bowerman, Wm. Bowman, John Bowles, Thos. Lord Clifford, Wm. Earl of Craven, Sir George Carteret, Sir Wm. Coventry, Sir Anthony Craven, Sir Robt. Cotton, Sir Peter Colleton, Sir Nicholas Crispe, Sir Francis Chaplin, Sir Robert Clayton, Mrs. Dorothy Colvill, Capt. George Cock, Benjamin Coles, John Crispe, Esq., Thos. Crispe, Nicholas Cook, Jarvis Cartwright, John Culling, Josia Childe, Thos. Childe, Nicholas Carter, Benjamin Cole and John Cooke, Sir Jonathan Dawes, George Dashwood, Esq., Aldn. Francis Dashwood, Wm. Dashwood, Saml. Dashwood, George Day, Thos. Duck, Humphrey Edwin, Saml. Everard, Sir Richard Ford, Sir Philip Frowd, Aldn. Daniel Forth, John Fenn, Thos. Farington, George Frohock, John Fitch, and Moses Goodyer, Capt. Ferdinando Gorges, Henry Griffith, Wm. Goulston, John Gardner, Philip Grave, Wm. Galway, Robt. Jeffreys, and John Gourney, Francis Lord Hawley, James Hoare senr., Edward Hopegood, Wm. Hodges, John Hill, John Harbin, Ralph Hodgkins, Thos. Heatley, Richard Holder, Richard Hawkins, George Hadley, Rowland Hill, James Hoare junr., and Henry Johnson, John Geffreys John Jurin, Peter Joy, Thos. Johnson, and Marke Jarvis, Sir Andrew King, George Keats and Henry Kempe, Sir Charles Littleton, Sir John Lowther, Christopher Lowther, Thos. Lewis, John Lindsey, Simon Lewis, John Letten, Jacob Lucy, William Levell, Ralph Lee, Henry Lascee, John Lock, Chas. Modyford, Richard Middleton, Marke Mortimer, John Middleton, Robt. Morris, Daniel Mercer, Humphrey Morrice, John Morrice, Thomas Murthwaite, Samuel Moyer, Ralph Marshall, John Meade, John Markland, John Morgan, Robert Monteth, Wm. Metcalfe, Thos. Neales, Benjamin Newland, Thos. Nicholls and Richard Nicol, Mrs. Delicia Nelson, Lord Powis, Sr. Thos. Player, Lawrence du Puy, Chas. Porter, Thos. Povey, John Portman, Peter Proby, Daniel Pennington and Peter Paravicini, Sir John Robinson, Dame Priscilla Rider, Tobias Rustal, William Rosse of Rosse Island, Thos. Rider, Wm. Rider, Wm. Roberts, Robt. Ryves, Gabriel Roberts, Henry Richards, Edward Rudge, Godfrey Richards, and Chas. Ryves, Sir John Shaw, Col. John Searle, Sir John Smith, Benjamin Skutt, Joseph Skutt, William Salmon, Saml. Sambrooke, Peter Short, Robert Stevenson, William Stevens, John Short, Thos. Short, John Sweeting, Simon Smith, John Skepper, Thos. Stevens, Nathaniel Symons, Edmond Sherman, [sic blank]Shermer, Sir John Talbott, Henry Tulce, George Toriano, Saml. Terrell, and Paul Tatnell, Sir Robert Vyner, Thos. Vernon, Wm. Vannam, Sir George Waterman, Sir Thomas Wolstenholme, Sir Wm. Warren, Brome Whorwood, Sir Joseph Williamson, Thos. Winter, Edward Willoughby, Wm. Walker, Nicholas Warren Wm. Warren, Arnold White, John Winder, Nicholas Wilde, Thos. Westerne, Richard Young, and John Young, and all others that they receive into their society, whom his Majesty constitutes one body corporate by the name of the Royal African Company of England; with power to use a common seal engraven on the one side with the image of his Majesty's royal person in royal robes, and on the other with an elephant bearing a castle supported by two negroes. For governing said company there shall be a Governor, Sub-Governor, Deputy Governor, and 24 assistants, the Duke of York, Earl of Shaftesbury, Mr. John Buckworth, and other persons above named as trustees, being the present Governor, Sub-Governor, Deputy Governor, and assistants, and between the 1st and 20th January in each year there shall be a General Court for election of those officers for the ensuing year, and from thence till other persons be chosen in their rooms or they die or be removed; said officers to take oath of fidelity to the company. Forms of said oath. With power to hold courts for management of business, summon general courts, make reasonable laws, and impose punishments by imprisonment or fine to the use of the company, so as same be not repugnant to the laws of England; to remove the Governor or any other officers convicted of misdemeanour; assign stocks in open court; set forth ships in warlike manner; enjoy all mines of gold and silver, and sole trade in said regions for gold, silver, negroes, slaves, goods, wares and merchandises whatsoever; and set out ships for further discovery of said rivers and places, paying alway the customs due on exportation and importation of goods. With prohibition to all other his Majesty's subjects to traffic into those regions or to import any redwood, elephants' teeth, negroes, slaves, hides, wax, guinea grains, or other commodities of those countries from any place within the limits aforesaid, without license under the company's seal, on pain of imprisonment and loss of ship and goods. All factors and masters of ships forbidden to trade without license from the company; and power to seize all ships, slaves, and goods whatsoever trading there contrary to these presents, one moiety of such forfeitures to the company and the other to his Majesty and his successors; with provision that his Majesty's Commissioners of Customs shall not permit entry to be made of any goods to be exported or imported to or from said parts other than shall be allowed by the company or their officer appointed to sit in the Custom House for that purpose. Power to the Governor and others to have the government of all forts, factories, and plantations settled by the company; to make peace or war with any of the heathen natives, to appoint governors and officers of said forts and factories, who shall have power to raise and train military force and execute martial law according to the company's instructions, his Majesty's sovereign right over all said plantations, and power of making peace or war when he shall be pleased to interpose, always reserved. Two thirds of all gold mines to be reserved to his Majesty and his successors, the company paying two thirds of all charges incident to discovery, defence, and working; and the company to enjoy one third on the like terms. A court of judicature constituted, to be held at such places as the company shall appoint, to consist of one person learned in civil law and two merchants, with power to hear and determine all cases of forfeitures, mercantile bargains, trading contracts, charter parties, and mercantile and maritime cases whatsoever, and all injuries committed on the high seas or in the countries aforesaid, according to the rules of equity, customs of merchants, or such rules as his Majesty shall appoint; all judgments to be in writing containing a short state of the matter of fact, sentence and adjudication thereon. The company to enjoy all privileges in the city of London as fully as any company of merchants heretofore established by patent; and all admirals, commanders, and other officers are commanded to assist therein. 7 1/2 skins. [Pat. Roll, 24 Chas. II., pt. 3, No. 3136.] |
| Sept. 27. |
935. Copy of the preceding charter. N.B.—The Earl of Arlington's name is omitted from the list of members of the company, and there are variations in the spelling of names. 27 1/2 pp. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. I., 1–28.] |
| 1672 ? |
936. Account of the Limits and Trade of the Royal African Company. The company's limits under his Majesty's Charter begin at Sally in South Barbary near Tangier, and end at Cabo Buen Esperança, where the East India Company's limits take place. The trade of Barbary, whence comes beeswax, copper, goatskins, gold, oils, corn, feathers, gums, and many other commodities, and of the Canary Islands, is followed by particular persons, the company having not thought fit hitherto to take it up. Next begins the North coast of Guinea. On James Island in the River Gambia the companies have a fort where are kept 70 men, and a factory whence elephants' teeth, bees-wax, and cowhides are exported in very considerable quantities; the river is very large and runs up much higher than any discovery has been made, and the gold is supposed to come most from places at its head; in this river they have small factories at Rio Noones, Rispongo, and Calsamança, and trade by sloops to Rio Grande and Catchao, for those commodities and negroes. At Sierra Leone River they have a factory for the same commodities, whence they sail into Sherboro River, where there is a factory, and trade chiefly for redwood, useful in dyeing, of which sometimes 300 tons per annum may be got and elephants' teeth; thence they trade to Cabe Mount and Cestos for elephants' teeth, where there was formerly a factory; and all along by ships staying a day or more they trade on the Grain and Quaqua coast, for Guinygrains or Mallagruetts, which is physic for negroes, and Quaqua cloths which are sold on the Gold Coast, and for teeth. At Cape Trespontes begins the trade for gold, and on that coast they have factories, not laid down in the maps, at Ashinee, Abinee, Dixiscove, Anashan, Anto, Succondee, Anamaboo, Wyamba, and Aga; Cormentine was taken from them in the first Dutch war, when Mr. Selwyn was agent, and at the same time they took Cabo-Corso Castle from the Dutch, which is now their chief port and place of trade, with 100 English, besides slaves, and the residence of their Agent-General, who furnishes thence all their under-factories with goods, and receives from them gold, elephants' teeth and slaves. Near Cabo-Corso is the great Dutch castle called the Mina; and more leewardly the company have another factory at Acra for gold. Their next factory is at Ardra for slaves only, which are there very plentiful; next follows Benin with a factory where they procure great quantities of cotton cloths to sell at Cabo-Corso and on the Gold Coast; then more leewardly lies the Bite, whither many ships are sent to trade at New and Old Calabar for slaves and teeth, which are there to be had in great plenty, and also in the rivers Cameroons and Gaboons which are near, but no factories, those places being very unhealthy. A trade for Angola is begun, and they have ordered a factory to settle near the Portugals' chief city at Sunis, whence it is hoped great quantities of slaves and copper may be got. They have not yet discovered any other places within the limits of their Charter. The slaves are sent to all his Majesty's American Plantations, which cannot subsist without them; and other commodities are all brought into England, the gold coined in his Majesty's Mint, and all other goods always sold publicly at a candle. 4 pp. [Col. Entry Bk., Vol. I.] |
| 1672 ? |
937. A Chart of the Sea Coasts from the Land's End of England to Cape Bona Esperanca. With dedication in Latin to the Governor and Company of the Society of English Merchants trading to Africa. By John Seller, Hydrographer to the King. [Frontispiece to Col. Entry Bk., Vol. I.] |
Sept. 27.
St. Jago de
la Vega. |
938. Minutes of the Council of Jamaica. Order of the King in Council, dated at Whitehall 11th May 1672, to be recorded; concerning the suspension of the Act of Navigation in all matters concerning ships, masters, mariners, guns, furniture, &c., or any goods imported or exported to or from Norway or the Baltic Sea; from Germany, Flanders, or France, whereof the masters or owners shall be his Majesty's natural born subjects. That merchants of any nation may import from any port whatsoever, hemp, pitch, tar,masts, saltpetre, and copper, paying such duties as by the Acts of Tonnage and Poundage are imposed on his Majesty's natural born subjects. And further, that any English merchantman freely employ any foreign vessel whatsoever, navigated by mariners of any nation, for importing or exporting all goods to or from any port in England and Wales, or any of his Majesty's plantations, paying only duties as for goods exported in English built bottoms. Provided, that no goods whatsoever be by them imported into any of his Majesty's plantations, but such as shall have been shipped in, and directly carried from, England or Wales; and that goods laden by them in any of his Majesty's plantations, be brought directly from thence to some of his Majesty's ports in England or Wales; and all Governors and Officers of Customs are strictly charged to observe all the rules and orders in the said Acts enjoined, save in the two clauses concerning English ships and mariners herein dispensed with. This dispensation to continue in force during his Majesty's pleasure, and after six months' notice by Royal Proclamation be given of it's determination. On the account given of the acquittal of one Peter Johnson, a pirate, because of errors in the indictment, which contained only one offence, whereas Johnson had committed divers piracies since publication of the peace; ordered, that the Attorney-General forthwith draw two new indictments, copies to be delivered to Johnson, that he be proceeded against according to law. 5 pp. [Col. Entry Bk., No. XXXV., 323–327.] |
Sept. 28.
Barbadoes. |
939. Sir Tobias Bridge to Secretary Lord Arlington. Wrote from the Madeiras August 14th, with account of their voyage so far, and meeting a Dutch man-of-war of 50 guns and upward, a frigate, and two other ships, which fired smartly upon them, but Captains Collyer and Williams placed their guns so conveniently, that, after an hour and a half's hot dispute, they left without any great damage done, save the taking of one of the smaller ships commanded by Yates; the other three, Collyer, Williams, and South's, arrived at Barbadoes on Saturday last was sevennight, and Lord Willoughby's instructions to the Council were presently delivered and opened; the government in his absence in the hands of the Council, with Sir Peter Colleton President. Found all things in peace, and very good posture for defence. The guards are still continued as before, expecting his Lordship's arrival every day. It has been a very sad year both for planters and merchants, but all please themselves in hopes of the great treasure to be found in Dominica. Has conversed with several discreet persons, and believe it is a matter of more than ordinary concernment and deserves to be looked after. 1 p. [Col. Papers, Vol. XXIX., No. 32.] |
Sept. 28.
Bristol. |
940. Richard Browne to Sir Joseph Williamson. Refers to his last (from Jamaica) of 7th April by Capt. Cole in the Lyon in company with the Welcome. Has since had news by Capt. Robotome of the Thomas and Charles of war with the Dutch, and that Sir Chas. Wheler had made his escape from Nevis to the French. Intelligence from Barbadoes of an attack on the Dutch Leeward Isles, and that in a hurricane two ships were lost and the other forced to Jamaica. That the Dutch had delivered up Statia and Saba to the English, and three or four days after the French coming to take them were much troubled to see English colours up. The design is further to attack Tobago and Curaçoa. Capt. Rose in the Friezland arrived at Jamaica with 350 negroes belonging to the Royal Company; with him came Agent Peirs belonging to the Royal Company, who, report says, has abundance of riches and is now come home in Capt. Robotome['s ship]. Capt. Didd arrived at Jamaica from Guinea with 150 negroes, and has sent his vessel to Campeachy for logwood. Capt. Saywell arrived in the Ruth of London with 140 negroes, and is loaded and bound for London. The Assistance has been at Trinidad on Cuba for cattle, and since at the Havana, where she was in much danger and forced to throw over six guns. Capt. Smyth, a Dutchman from Trinidad, advises that the Spaniards at Cartagena had seized a ketch employed by Sir Thos. Lynch to trade with them, and had burnt all the goods in the market place; Sir Thos.'s loss is they say 1,500l., vessel and negroes. Some whisper great complaints, but dare not speak, nor can he write all be knows. The Assembly sat several months, chiefly to raise moneys, 3,000l. being pitched on with pretence of making forts at Port Royal, but nothing could be done. Several small Acts about the government of the island, but nothing yet made public; only some of the Assembly have subscribed a gratuity for John Gadbury, the astrologer of London, for giving the island and them so great a character in his scheme erected in his almanack in 1671. Capt. Wells, in the Civilian of Jamaica from Triste in the Bay of Campeachy, bound with logwood for New England, reports there are three Dutch ships, the least of 36 guns, ready to sail with logwood for Holland; and that Capt. Morrice in the Lilly, a late pirate pardoned by Sir Thos. Lynch and pretended to be sent against Yellows, a late privateer revolted to the Spaniards, yet never attempted to pursue him though at Villa de Mors 70 leagues from him, but has laden his frigate with logwood. Hears that the other vessel, Capt. Allword, employed by the Governor and others at 80l. per mensem since February 1, sailed for Campeachy, and sold their negroes and other goods at a good price; but Robt. Hewitt, the supra-cargo, going ashore to sell goods was pursued by some of our late privateers, who robbed him of a considerable sum of money and plate; so that it is difficult to find a firm trade with the Spaniards. It is inestimable the injury the logwood men do the Spaniards, there being at one time, as informed, 900 men cutting wood at Beef Island by Triste,and presumes many more to the eastward at Cape Catoche, Lambeth Bay, and Ballinah; and a long time unmolested, but fears some will come short home, for the 20th July off the Havana they met four sail of Spaniards, men-of-war, well filled with gratings, oars, and men, who said they were bound for Campeachy; no question but to scour the coasts of our logwood men. By those men-of-war were advised that Capt. Johnson, a late privateer of Jamaica but now a pirate, had taken a Spaniard of 16 guns and another from Old Spain, both bound to the Havana. Sir T. Lynch has given commission to Capt. Harris to attack a Dutch merchantman trading with the Spaniards upon Cuba. Capt. Rogers, a privateer turned pirate, is cruizing on the Spanish coasts about Cartagena. Since privateering failed here there have been several robberies; several have suffered, and others in due time will receive their deserts. In Capt. Boebotome's ship, arrived from London one Squire Bennet, a kinsman of Lord Arlington's, with a considerable cargo; whilst aboard he went by another name. "Here is one Mr. Audry, the brother-in-law to Sir Thomas Lynch; upon your account hath made him Lieutenant of the Assistance these 10 months, and in that capacity comes now home." Sailed from Jamaica July 9, Major Beeston in the Assistance, Capt. Rose in the Friezland, Capt. Roebotome in the Thomas and Charles, Capt. Stubbs in the Endeavour, Capt. Seywell in the Ruth, all bound for London, and Capt. Rich. Leach in the Huntsman for Bristol. August 5th watered at the Havana, and were told of three Dutch men-of-war and a fire-ship at the Bay of Mettusas 20 leagues to the eastward, which they judged to be those Capt. Wells spoke of; September 2, came up with a French pink from Porto Rico bound for St. Malo, and on the 19th the Assistance and her convoy made for Scilly, and then for Cape Clear, and arrived on Thursday last at King Road, not seeing one sail; but this day arrived a vessel from Ireland with advice of a ship of Bristol chased ashore on that coast by two Dutch capers of no great force. Has had a long voyage so takes the benefit of the Bath three or four days, and then for London to kiss his Honour's hands. Humble service to Lord Arlington. Begs he will be mindful of him if there be any vacant employment during these troubles. Humble service to Serjeant Knights. 3 1/2 pp. [Col. Papers, Vol. XXIX., No. 33.] |
Sept. 30.
Barbadoes. |
941. Sir Peter Colleton to Sec. Lord Arlington. Lord Willoughby having put the government of this island in the Council during his absence, and appointed Colleton President, has despatched this fleet of seven sail manned and gunned according to enclosed list, with commissions and instructions, and taken bonds as his Majesty has directed. The fleet would have consisted of 14 sail, but a storm on the 14th instant forced seven on shore and destroyed them. All else have been very quiet, and his Majesty's affairs in these parts are in a prosperous condition. Encloses,
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941. I. List of seven merchant ships despatched from Barbadoes, 30th September 1672, with names of Commanders, numbers of guns and men. |
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941. II. Instructions for Capt. Thomas Joyce, Admiral of the aforesaid fleet, 1672, September 27. |
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941. III. Bond of Captains of said fleet, viz.:—Thos. Joyce, Wm. Davis, Rich. Watson. Jno. Woodfine, Henry Nurse, Andrew Ellyard, and James Robarts. 1672, September 27th. Together, 5 1/2 pp. [Col. Papers, Vol. XXIX., No. 34, 34. I., II., III.] |
