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Oct. 2.
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1596. John Fitzherbert to Williamson. The Phœnix is arrived
from Virginia, and a Dartmouth vessel from Nevis ; the latter came
thence in July, and brings nothing new, but confirms the great
victory over the French and the destruction of 14 men-of-war and
6 merchant ships, and that Harman endured 2,000 shot from the
enemy without returning one till he saw his own advantage. She
speaks of another attempt designed upon St. Christopher's, and
reports the ill conduct of the new Governor of Barbadoes, who landed
his men, and then stood off to sea ; the men, doing their best, were
beaten, and 300 seamen, swimming for their lives with no ships or
boats to take them up, were all forced ashore and killed, when they
might have taken them up with ease, which had like to have made
a great disorder when the officers came ashore. [Dom., Chas. II.,
Vol. CCXIX., No. 30, Cal., p. 505.]
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[Oct. 2.]
|
1597. Petition of Merchants and Planters trading to the Leeward
Isles to the King. Offer proposals for the resettlement and future
protection of the inhabitants of said islands, which they pray may
be referred to the Committee for Plantations. Annexed,
The proposals above mentioned. That his Majesty send over
a Lieutenant for those islands, and that they be no longer
under the Government of Barbadoes. Reasons : That these
islands are able to give speedy aid to each other, and Barbadoes
being 100 leagues distant it is many times five or six weeks
before a ship can gain that island from thence. It is the
interest of the Council and Assembly of Barbadoes that these
islands be no more settled, for one lb. of their sugar will be
worth as much as two before these islands were lost, and petitioners
can prove that several Barbadians have wished these
islands sunk. Powder and cannon procured of his Majesty for
Nevis has been taken for the use of Barbadoes. Further reasons,
viz., for encouragement of trade, for encouragement of planters,
and for the encouragement of soldiers and servants. Indorsed,
Read in Council, Oct. 2, 1667. Referred accordingly. Together
4 pp. [Col. Papers, Vol. XXI., Nos. 119, 119 I.]
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|
[1667.]
|
1598. Abstracts of documents relating to "the title of the English
to Nova Scotia." The lands of Canada being first discovered by
Sebastian Cabot at the charge of Henry VII., the first patent thereof
was given to Sir Humfrey Gilbert, and thereafter one to the Virginia
Company, and last, a subdivision being made by King James, part
was given by a particular patent, to be called New England, and
another part to Sir Will. Alexander, to be called New Scotland, and
he about seven years ago sent a ship expressly thither, to discover
a place for habitation, having heard that the French were removed
from Port Royal about 10 years before by Sir Samuel Argal, who
had commission to that effect. Said Sir William being resolved to
plant there, sent his son Sir William Alexander last spring, with a
colony to inhabit the same ; who arriving at Cape Breton found three
ships there, one whereof belonging to San Sebastian in Portugal, that
unlawfully traded there, Sir Will. with Lord Ochiltree and M. de
Latour judged to be lawful prize ; but the other two being French
he no wise troubled. Leaving Lord Ochiltree with 60 or 80 English
to inhabit at Cape Breton, Sir Will. went directly to Port Royal,
which he found had been a long time abandoned, and there seated
himself and his company according to his Majesty's warrant. Then
follows an extract of the patent granted to Sir Will. Alexander, 5th
March 1630-1, granting him the sole trade and prohibiting others
to make any voyages into said parts, upon pain of confiscation of
goods and shipping, with power to make prize of French and Spanish
ships and goods, and to displant the French, and powers of government,
&c. Also copy of a letter from the Council of Scotland to the
King : that they have understood by his Majesty's letter of the
title pretended by the French to New Scotland, and have presumed
by order of the States to make remonstrance thereof, that his
Majesty would seriously take to heart the maintenance of his right
to those lands, and protect the undertakers in the peaceful possession
of the same. Holyrood, 9th Sept. 1630. Signed by Morton, Winton,
Lauderdale, and Hamilton. 1½ pp. [Col. Papers, Vol. XXI.,
No. 120.]
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Oct. 4.
|
1599. Propositions and considerations for the business of Canada
and Nova Scotia. The King's title to Acadia, Canada, and
countries adjacent is derived from the time that Sebastian Cabot
took possession of that continent, and it is confessed in French maps
that the gulf and river of Canada were first discovered by the
English. The interest of this State in possessing those countries :
They are the sole nursery of shipping and mariners for France and
Spain (1,000 French mariners were taken prisoners there by the
English last year) and the transporting of fish to the Straits, Barbary,
and Spain enriches them much. Also by them the King will
be sole master from Virginia to Newfoundland, which is of very
considerable consequence for the trade of furs, fish, masts, pitch,
tar, &c. Divers English merchants last year during the war with
France set out ships under command of Capt. Kirke and took possession
of the gulf and greatest part of the river of Canada, and
took down the French arms at Tadousac and set up the English
arms there. This year likewise the Company, being united to Sir
W. Alexander by his Majesty's commission, employed many ships
and land forces for regaining the whole and settling plantations
there. Wherefore they pray that nothing in this treaty with France
may be yielded unto, to the prejudice of his Majesty's subjects in
those parts ; but that it may be left to the corporation to defend at
their own charge the possession they have.
The bounds of L'Acadie in order to the restitution thereof to the
French, dated from the Council Chamber, 4th Oct. 1667. From
20 leagues to the eastward of Port Royal, where the first French
bounds begin on the east side, and so north in a straight line to Canada,
and so along the coast to Cape Sable, and so to Cape Breton, and
so N.W. and N.N.W. as far as the river Canada. "That the rendition
be made in the words of the article, and that the Governor be
charged to restore to the French only what they did enjoy formerly."
The bounds of L'Acadie and Nova Scotia : 1. L'Acadie is bounded
east by Cape Sable ; the principal harbour is called Meralaquesh ;
the bounds extend to Port and Cape La Have, Cape Sable, Port
Latour (or Longry), and to Cloven Cape. 2. Nova Scotia is bounded
east by Cloven Cape, which divides Acadie and Nova Scotia, and
trends away S.W. to the Cape and river Ingogen, and thence to Port
Royal, St. John's Fort, and Penobscot, and ends there. 3. Penobscot
river and fort is bounded east by Pentagoet [Pentecost], of which
the inhabitants of New Plymouth had a patent in 1627, which
they enjoyed till in 1643 or 1644 it was surprised by M. de Latour
and enjoyed by the French, till Cromwell took it again ; and west
by the river Muscentus and Pemaquid, which have always been
inhabited by the English. Indorsed : 1. Proposals about Canada.
2. The bounds of L'Acadie. Council Chamber, 4 Oct. 1667. 3.
Bounds of Acadie and N. Scotia. 18 of Sept. 1667. Pentackett
granted to the men of New Plymouth by patent from King Charles,
about 1627. 1½ pp. [Col. Papers, Vol. XXI., No. 121.]
|
|
[1667.]
|
1600. Abstracts of documents relating to the title of the English
to Nova Scotia. About the time that Columbus discovered Cuba
Sebastian Cabot first discovered Newfoundland, the Gulf of Canada,
Cape Breton, and all the coast to Florida, by which his Majesty has
his title to Virginia, New England, and New Scotland. The French
neglecting the knowledge thereafter by Jaques Cartier of the river of
Canada planted first a colony under M. Villegagnon in Brazil, and
another under M. Laudoniere in Florida, from both of which they were
expelled by the Spaniards. In the time of Henry IV., the French
under M. Poutrincourt seated themselves in Port Royal, out of which
as soon as it was known they were displanted by Sir Samuel Argal,
as having wrongfully intruded themselves within the bounds belonging
to this Crown. The remainder of this French colony stayed in
the country, and during the time of King James there was no complaint
made upon Sir Sam. Argal for having displanted them.
[N.B.—This is opposed to the facts, see remarks in Preface], and they
were now lately glad to demand protection from his Majesty. The
French next seated themselves at Quebec, whereto the English
might likewise have claimed right ; but small notice was taken of
them, till during the late war a command was given by his Majesty
to remove them, which was performed, the place being taken a little
after the peace was concluded ; and a colony of Scotch was planted
at Port Royal, which had never been repossessed or claimed by the
French. This business of Port Royal cannot be made liable to the
articles of peace, seeing there was no act of hostility committed ; a
colony only having been planted upon his Majesty's own ground,
according to a patent granted by his Majesty's father. After the Scotch
colony was planted, they and the French met the commanders of
the natives called Sagamores, and made choice of one of the chief,
Sagamo Segept, to come to his Majesty to acknowledge his title and
become his subjects, craving only to be protected from their enemies,
which demand was accepted by his Majesty ; and M. de Latour, chief
of the few French there, neglected by his own country, and finding
his Majesty's title not so much as questioned, came with Sagamo,
demanding the like in the name of the French who lived there. So
that his Majesty has good right to New Scotland, by discovery,
possession, removing the French, M. de Latour's voluntary turning
tenant, and the very savages willingly offering obedience ; and he
is bound to maintain it, both in regard of his subjects planted there
upon his warrant, and of his promise to the natives.
The French Ambassador's memoir concerning L'Acadie. In 1628
the French King granted the Province of L'Acadie to the Company
of New France, forbidding traffic for skins, which is the only product
and commerce of that country, and in 1657 gave commission
to the Sieur Le Bourne to be Governor of said Province, and renewed
the prohibitions afore mentioned ; contrary whereto in August 1661
an English bark of 15 or 16 tons was met with in Port La Have,
laden with beaver and other skins, and was taken by the Sieur Le
Bourne's son in his father's absence, and brought into France. Said
Le Bourne being now in London, soliciting his Majesty for restitution
of part of L'Acadie, usurped by the English under an illegal government,
and upon pretence of a surreptitious grant under Cromwell,
Sieur Battailler, Sec. of the French Embassy, in his Ambassador's
absence desires that his Majesty would meantime suspend all orders
required against Le Bourne by the owners of said bark ; as he offers
security to the value of all prizes taken by the French from the
English, provided the parties do the like for prizes proved to have
been unduly taken from the French in said Province. London,
Nov. 23/Dec. 3, 1661. Then follow extracts relating to the title, 1606. First
discovered by De Latour, who built St. John's fort, engaged Sir
Will. Alexander to support his right and take part of his interest ;
and he obtained a grant in 1621, which was confirmed in 1625. In
1630 the Earl of Sterling conveyed part of Nova Scotia to Latour
with right of a marquisate, and in 1632 surrendered, at the King's
persuasion, Port Royal to the French for 10,000l. issuable out of the
revenue of Scotland, which was never paid. Hence arise the pretensions
of the Earl's widow, married to Col. Blount, and his heirs.
In the Earl's right came Sir Lewis Kirke, Francis Berkeley, &c., who
bestowed vast sums in planting that country, under contract with
the Earl, and who surrendered their interest to the French for
60,000l., which was never satisfied, so Kirke and Berkeley think
the French have no equitable pretensions. After 1632 the French
of Port Royal make war upon Latour at St. John's fort, who going
to New England for succour, mortgages St. John's to Major Gibbons,
but when he returns finds that the French under one D'Aulney had
seized St. John's. The King of France disavows the action, and
gives Latour power to seize D'Aulney, but he died, and Latour
married his widow, and now holds Port Royal by that right. In
1655 Sedgwick, without orders, turns his forces upon the French in
Nova Scotia, seizes Latour's forts and him brings prisoner to Cromwell,
who thought fit to restore that country to Latour and with him
upon articles agreed between them to Tho. Temple and Wm. Crown
in 1656. It may be doubted in which Prince the right of sovereignty
and the propriety is. If in his Majesty and his subjects, then whether
in Temple and Crown, &c. by Cromwell's grant ; Kirke, Berkeley, and
others for their 60,000l. ; Gibbons for his mortgage ; or Earl Sterling's
heirs for their 10,000l. Scotch. The first discovery of Canada and
possession were by the English. Afterwards the French planted and
kept it when the Scotch patent was granted for Nova Scotia, and
were again ejected by the English ; but at the peace Quebec was
restored, yet so as the right of the English was not taken away.
"Hereby it appears that if the English had right, the Scotch patent
cannot take it from them. If the French usurped, it was upon the
English, and were not ejected by the Scotch. The Scotch patent
cannot be of force against the one or the other. And if in the restitution
of Quebec there was a reservation of the right of the English
and no reservation thereof, it remains entire both against French
and all other. Extracted out of Mr. Sec. Coke's papers upon a
dispute betwixt the English and Sir Will. Alexander, Mr. Kirke,
Mr. Berkeley claiming the gulf and river of Canada and Nova Scotia,
by a Scotch title, thereby prohibiting the English to trade or plant."
Indorsed, "The title of the English Crown to Nova Scotia, Canada,
&c. French Ambassador's memoir concerning L'Acadie. A query
whether Nova Scotia belongs to the English or French. Answered
by the opinion of Mr. Sec. Coke, upon a dispute betwixt the Scotch
and English [see previous Volume of Calendar, anno 1632]. Crown
and Temple." 4 pp. [Col. Papers, Vol. XXI., No. 122.]
|
Oct. 6.
Nancymond,
Virginia.
Shaftesbury
Papers.
|
1601. John Vassall to Sir John Colleton. Presumes he has
heard of the unhappy loss of their plantation on Charles river,
which he could never have understood had he not come hither to
hear how that all that came from us made it their business to exclaim
against the country, as they had rendered it unfit for a Christian
habitation, which hindered the coming of people and supply, so as
the rude rabble of inhabitants were daily ready to mutiny against
Vassall for keeping them there so long, insomuch that after they had
found a way to come hither by land neither arguments nor authority
prevailed, and he was forced to stop the first ship that came till he
could send for more shipping to carry them all away together, the
charges of which and the loss of his estate have ruined him, but had
his cousin Vassall arrived safely they had been yet in a flourishing
condition. Sent one Whitaker last November to give the Lords
Proprietors an account of their condition, but he was taken by the
way, so has not heard a word since he received his commission by
Mr. Sandford. All their misfortunes occasioned by the hard terms
of their Lordships' concessions, which made the friends that set them
out from Barbadoes forsake us. With 200l. in clothing they had
made a comfortable shift for another year ; he offered to stay if
20 men would stay with him till they heard from the Lords
Proprietors, for they had corn enough though the Indians had killed
their cattle, but he could not find six men that would be true to
him, so he was obliged to leave to his ruin. Fears their Lordships
will not have a much better account of their Plantation at Roanoke
unless a better course be taken to encourage their stay, for they are
not without great cause of complaints. Indorsed by John Locke.
1 p. [Shaftesbury Papers, Section IX., No. 8.]
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|
1667?
|
1602. Proposals to be tendered to the Duke of York from Peter
Stuyvesant, late Governor of New Netherlands. First, that his
Royal Highness will ratify all the articles concluded betwixt Col.
Nicolls and said Peter Stuyvesant for the benefit of both nations.
That in the 6th Article it was concluded that the Dutch (now his
Royal Highness's subjects) should have liberty to trade with their
own correspondents in Holland ; which if not observed, or in some
measure indulged, all the Dutch inhabitants of New York must be
brought to ruin and the colony to penury ; because, 1stly, they
have received constant supplies from their friends in Holland at
far easier rates than from any other parts, and have not had an
opportunity to fix their correspondence elsewhere. 2ndly. Their
manner of agriculture is wholly different from that of the English, and
they cannot expect a supply of the necessary utensils from England.
3rdly. The trade of beaver (the most desirable commodity for Europe)
has always been purchased by commodities brought from Holland,
as "camper duffles, hatchets, and other iron works made at Utrecht, &c.,
much esteemed of by the natives ;" and if these fail, the very trade
itself would fail, and the French of Canada (now encroached to be
but half a day's journey from the Mohawks) supplying them may
may totally divert the beaver trade, and then they will not have one
ship from Europe to trade with them. 4thly. It being certain no
ships from England will visit those parts this year, unless the
inhabitants be supplied before spring with necessaries from Holland
they cannot subsist, but must seek a livelihood elsewhere. But if
his Royal Highness will procure liberty for two small Dutch vessels,
the Cross Heart and Indian, to go thence to New York, Stuyvesant
will undertake to satisfy the necessities both of the merchant and
husbandman. Printed in New York Documents, III., 163, 164.
1½ pp. [Col. Papers, Vol. XXI., No. 123.]
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|
[Oct. 7.]
|
1603. Petition of Peter Stuyvesant, late Governor of (New)
Amsterdam and General of the New Netherlands, in behalf of
himself and the Dutch now his Majesty's subjects in New York, to
the King and Council. That petitioners after a solemn treaty on
articles of the 29th August 1664, surrendered their town and fort
to Col. Nicolls and swore allegiance to his Majesty. That the 6th
Article, esteemed to be of most considerable importance, has these
words,—that any people from the Netherlands may plant in the
country, and that Dutch vessels may freely come and return with
merchandise. Prays that the treaty may be ratified, and his Majesty's
subjects there allowed the benefit of a free trade as granted by
the 6th Article ; also that according to the annexed pass from Col.
Nicolls, petitioner may have liberty to return thither in the ship
named therein, the Crost Heart, from any port of Holland. Indorsed,
"Read and received 23rd October 1667." Annexed,
Reference to the Committee of Plantations to examine the
articles, and to take care as little prejudice as may be accrue
thereupon. 1667, October 7th. Indorsed, "Committee for
New York, 17th October 1667."
Report of the Committee for Foreign Plantations on above
petition. In regard to the necessity of a present trade in those
parts, which cannot at this time be supplied from hence, it is
humbly offered to his Majesty,—That a temporary permission
for seven years be granted to the Dutch to trade freely with
the inhabitants of those lands lately reduced to his Majesty's
obedience from the Dutch ; and that his Majesty grant petitioner
a pass pursuant to the passport he has from Col. Nicolls for his
return from Holland into those parts. Whitehall, 1667, October
17th. Indorsed, Read in Council 23rd October 1667.
Order in Council on said petition. That a temporary permission
for seven years with three ships only be granted to the
Dutch freely to trade with the inhabitants of the lands lately
reduced from the Dutch to his Majesty's obedience, and that the
Duke of York Lord High Admiral of England, be authorised
to grant a pass to petitioner to return to New York, pursuant
to the passport he has received from Col. Nicolls. 1667, October
23rd. Indorsed, Approved of in Council 30th October 1667.
Printed in New York Documents, III., 164-167. Together
5 pp. [Col. Papers, Vol. XXI., Nos. 124-127.]
|
Oct. 10/20.
Fort Albany.
|
1604. Col. Nicolls to the Rev. Father Jean Pierron, at Castle
Tionnontogen. Having seen his letter to Mdme. de Corlart, of the
13th Sept., and another of the same date to M. Hains [? D'Hinse],
and perceiving that he has thoroughly learnt the English language,
dares not hazard any longer his bad style of French, of which he
knows very little. Cést pourquoi [thus far is written in French]
I now begin in plain English to let you know that if you please to
give me a meeting at Schonectade, I shall be glad to see you and
to serve you in what you seem to desire towards your winter's
provision. Has received news that peace is concluded between
England and France, and that the French army have taken several
towns in Flanders ; but to a person of his profession and merit
Nicolls would at any time accord an interview. This letter is sent
to serve as a passport to come to Schonectade and return, with one
more in his company. Has but little time to spend in these parts,
but Pierron will find him next Monday and Tuesday in Schenectade.
He may with the most expedition make the journey down
the river in a canoe, otherwise he would have sent horses for him.
Desires speedy answer by the bearer if he is not disposed to take
so sudden a voyage. Draft in Nicolls' hand, with corrections.
Printed in New York Documents, III., 162, 163. 1¼ pp. [Col.
Papers, Vol. XXI., No. 128.]
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|
Oct. 13-16.
|
1605. Accounts of beef and pork delivered to the ships Amity
and William and Thomas, for the fleet in the West Indies. Annexing,
Bills of lading by Joseph Wright and Thos. Bond, for
provisions named, shipped by Sir Denis Gauden for Barbadoes,
to be delivered to Sir John Harman or Lord Willoughby
for the use of his Majesty's ships in the West Indies. Nov. 11.
[Dom., Chas. II., Vol. CCXX., Nos. 13, 13 I., 40, 40 I., Cal.,
p. 524-528.]
|
Oct. 15/25.
St. Germain en
Laye.
|
1606. The French King's Act for the restitution of St. Christopher's,
Antigua, and Montserrat. French and Latin [where the
Articles of the Treaty of Breda are quoted]. 8 pp. and four lines.
[Col. Papers, Vol. XXI., No. 129.]
|
|
Oct.?
|
1607. Translation of the above, with corrections by Williamson,
who has indorsed it, "Instrument of cession and surrender." 4 pp.
[Col. Papers, Vol. XXI., No. 131.]
|
|
Oct.?
|
1608. Translation of the French portion of the preceding. Draft,
with corrections in Under-Sec. Williamson's handwriting. Indorsed,
Warrant for delivering up St. Christopher's, &c. 2 pp. [Col.
Papers, Vol. XXI., No. 130.]
|
|
Oct. 15/25.
|
1609. Copy of the above. endorsed by Williamson, "Instrument
of surrender as at first we desired it from France, but not thus
granted." Also with this mem., Cession of St. Christopher as by us
drawn, but granted in another form by France, 1668, see No.
3 pp. [Col. Papers, Vol. XXI., No. 132.]
|
|
Oct. 16.
|
1610. Lord Baltimore's answer to the representation delivered to
his Majesty in Council on the 16th Oct. 1667, from the Governor
and Council of Virginia, complaining of his Lordship as Governor
of Maryland disallowing the cessation from planting tobacco stipulated
by his Commissioners. Indorsed, Received and read, 16th
Oct. 1667. 4 pp. [Col. Papers, Vol. XXI., No. 133.]
|
Oct. 16.
Boston.
|
1611. Samuel Mavericke to [Sec. Lord Arlington.] Incloses copy
of letter he sent in June, which with some addition he again sent
by one Randall of Plymouth (Sept. 12), before which certain news
was received of the death of Sir Robert Carr at Bristol. Hopes
his papers came safe, has not heard from England since. The
Plantations of Cape Fear are deserted, and some of the inhabitants
come hither, some to Virginia. At Bermudas there has been such a
drought that the fruits of the earth are all destroyed, and in Virginia
23rd August there was such a dreadful hurricane as blew
up all the roots, overturned many houses and trees, and drove up
some vessels of burden above high-water mark many feet, and
about that time they report that Lord Baltimore's son, Governor of
Virginia, [sic] died. Annexed,
Same to Same. Sent letters and papers in August last
twelvemonth by Col. Cartwright which were all lost, has therefore
by all conveyances troubled him with more copies, some
of which they hope are come to hand. In October last, being
at New York and Sir Robert Carr being sick, he resolved to go
for England, but before the ship sailed he was taken sick, but
sent two packets from Col. Nicolls to Sir Wm. Coventry. Also
sent other letters informing how things then stood. Sir Robert
recovered, and it was resolved that he should go to England
and Mavericke remain here, who furnished with all material
papers. Hopes they have safely arrived. Will not trouble him
with the relation of Sir Robert's contest with the reputed
Governor and Council, for Capt. Breedon will do so. Mr.
Bellingham, Governor, was elected Governor on the 16th inst.,
and Hawthorne and all the rest magistrates again. Their
first act was expelling Capt. Appleton, Deputy for Ipswich, his
crime being subscription to that loyal petition presented to
the last Court. It is now commonly reported that the signification
of his Majesty's pleasure which in September last he
gave to the Governor and Council was never signed by his
Majesty, but forged by Mavericke to scare them. And that
when their letter to Sir Wm. Morrice was by one Harwood of
"Bednoll Greene" delivered, and he brought to the King, his
Majesty told him he never ordered any such thing to be sent,
and commended the Governor and Council for not submitting
to it. These rumours exceedingly dishearten the loyal party.
Beseeches him to procure some speedy order for a full settlement
of the colonies in New England entirely under his Majesty's
obedience, which will give great satisfaction to all well affected
people. Has formerly presumed to present his apprehensions
how this work may be done with least charge and most satisfaction
to the innocent. Has this week received a letter from
Col. Nicolls ; all is well there, only he wants money and goods,
having taken up on his own credit above 1,000l. to carry on the
work. Great losses and miscarriages of letters of late, so he
dare not let any opportunity pass without writing. Printed
in New York Documents, III., 160, 161. 2 pp. [Col. Papers,
Vol. XXI, No. 134.]
|
Oct. 16.
Boston.
|
1612. Samuel Mavericke to Col. George Cartwright, "at Mr.
Lavender's house, at the Talbot, over against Somerset House, in
the Strand." His last was by Mr. Randall, the letters committed
to Zacheus Sedgwick who lived with Capt. Breedon. Incloses copy
of his last letter to the Lord Chancellor or else to Sec. Lord
Arlington, (see previous letter), Wilson is dead ; Davenport of Newhaven
called to succeed him. Sergeant Exton whom Col. Nicolls
sent out against the French, has arrived here, having taken two
French forts and as many guns and plunder as his ship would carry.
Extreme drought in Bermudas and a hurricane in Virginia ; report
that young Baltimore is dead. News from Newfoundland of the
Dutch landing on the Isle of Tenett (Thanet), and burning several
of the Royal ships, that the Duke of Albemarle was made High Constable
and had displaced the Duke of Ormond, cashiered 153 officers
in Ireland, and committed the Lord Chancellor and several bishops
to the Tower. Hopes his last of Sept. 12 will come safe to hand,
which was more large than this, for he is just come from Salem
and further east, and finds the ship setting sail. Printed in New
York Documents, III., 161, 162. 1 p. [Col. Papers, Vol. XXI.,
No. 135.]
|
Oct. 17.
Whitehall.
|
1613. Minutes of the Committee of Plantations. Until Lord
Willoughby's time the Leeward Isles did not depend on Barbadoes
but were under Sir [Thos.] Warner. The Earl of Carlisle was
commander of Barbadoes and all the Leeward Caribbee Isles, but
appointed commanders in the several islands. Until the King's
restoration Lord Willoughby had nothing to do with the Leeward
Isles. Mr. Russell, Governor of Nevis, acknowledged to have
received four of the six guns the King ordered but no powder.
Those islands desire to have arms, victual, and ammunition sent
directly to them, and not by way of Barbadoes. Ordered, that
Lord Willoughby's agent have a copy of the papers exhibited by
the planters, and return answer as soon as may be. The Committee
to meet again on Monday at 3, after dinner. Lord Ashley to
be desired to bring to-morrow what he has prepared concerning the
new Committee for Trade.
The Business of New York.—The Committee appointed by his
Majesty to examine the petition of Peter Stuyvesant, late Governor
of the New Netherlands on behalf of the Dutch there, and the
articles thereto annexed, offer in regard of the present necessity of
a trade there which cannot be supplied from hence, that temporary
permission for seven years be granted to the Dutch to trade freely
with the inhabitants of the New Netherlands, lately reduced into
the obedience of his Majesty, and having taken the oath of allegiance.
Also that his Majesty grant Stuyvesant a pass, pursuant to the
passport he has from Col. Nicolls, for his safe return from Holland
into those parts. 2 pp. [Col. Papers, Vol. XXI., No. 136.]
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Oct. 19.
West Cowes.
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1614. John Lysle to Williamson. On Friday arrived a States'
man-of-war, the Prince William on Horseback, which committed the
late exploits in Virginia, and is now ordered convoy for several
Dutch and French vessels bound for France. [Dom., Chas. II., Vol.
CCXX., No. 77, Cal., p. 535.]
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Oct. 20.
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1615. Answer of John Champante, agent for Lord Willoughby, to
the proposals of the Planters and Merchants concerning the Leeward
Isles [see ante, No. 1597]. His Majesty has already constituted Lord
Willoughby Governor and Vice-Admiral of all the Caribbee Isles, with
power to appoint Deputy Governors, so that the granting of a distinct
commission for the Leeward Isles would be an infringement of his
patent. It is a great mistake their apprehending that those islands are
under Lord Willoughby as Lieutenant of Barbadoes ; his Lordship being
Captain-General of all said islands, and may reside in any of them at his
pleasure. They were never otherwise than under one Governor, the
first patent being granted to the Earl of Carlisle as Captain-General,
which was derived to Francis Lord Willoughby about the year 1646,
and confirmed by his late Majesty ; and Antigua and Montserrat
received commissions for their Government from his Lordship, though
Nevis and St. Christopher's rejected not only his Lordship's but his
Majesty's letters sent from the Isle of Wight. Answers to the reasons
annexed to the proposals of said petitioners. Should those islands
become independent of Barbadoes it would cause animosities and a
neglect of that help which would be cheerfully afforded ; and had it not
been for extraordinary relief from Barbadoes, wherein they expended
at least 50,000l., Nevis could in no wise have withstood the late force
of the French. It would also give opportunity to persons in debt,
servants, and slaves to escape from island to island. And as to the
distance of Barbadoes from said islands, advice may be at any time
sent by sloops in 10 days, several having come in four days. Lord
Willoughby has a distinct Council and Assembly in every one of
said islands, and those at Barbadoes have neither jurisdiction nor
any influence on said islands. As to detaining powder and two
cannon, far greater quantities of powder, with arms, ammunition, and
provisions have been sent from Barbadoes to Nevis than is pretended
to have been kept from them. Lord Francis Willoughby went
thither with a fleet of seven sail in July 1665 ; in Jan. after Col.
Henry Willoughby, Deputy Governor of Barbadoes, sent three ships
with provisions to Nevis when they were like to perish for want of
food ; and on 6th March following 10 ships, which engaged 23 considerable
French ships sent for taking Nevis, which was thereby
relieved. Replies to the reasons given for the encouragement of
trade and for the soldiers which, if his Majesty think fit to send,
shall be fitly disposed of for the preservation of said islands. Prays
their Lordships to examine whether these proposals come from the
body of said Leeward Isles, or from particular persons here, who may
seek some advantages to themselves by an alteration of what his
Majesty has settled under the Great Seal. Indorsed, To be heard at
the Committee on Tuesday the 29th of Oct. 1667. 3½ pp. [Col.
Papers, Vol. XXI., No. 137.]
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Oct. 22.
Fort James.
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1616. (Col. Nicolls) to M. Corlart. You have answered my expectations
of your care and diligence, the continuance whereof is of
high importance to the peace and welfare of this Government ; for
should the French obtain their ends upon the Maquaes, we have
reason to suspect their ill-neighbourhood to the whole trade ; or worse,
that they have further design to make Albany or Schenectade their
winter quarters, for the season will hardly permit them to turn
before winter to Canada. If the French seek to destroy all before
them in the Maquaes' country, their design must be to settle a garrison
in some other place, or immediately to return to Canada. All possible
circumspection is therefore to be applied to gain intelligence. The
last letter from the Viceroy to the Commissioners sufficiently manifests
his ill grounded displeasure and intentions against us if his
forces, by their success upon the Maquaes, should be in a condition to
attempt anything to our prejudice. Desires him to be watchful, and
not to be deluded with fair words. Draft in Col. Nicolls' handwriting.
2 pp. [Col. Papers, Vol. XXI., No. 138.]
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Oct. 23.
Schenhede
(Schenectade).
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1617. Jean Pierron to (Col. Nicolls). Has arrived to tender his
humble respects ; thanks him for taking the trouble to come himself,
and awaits with joy his arrival. French, 1 p. [Col. Papers, Vol.
XXI., No. 139.]
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Oct. 30.
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1618. Report of [Lords Committee of Council for Plantation
Affairs] upon the representation of the Governor and Council of
Virginia, delivered by Col. Moryson, and the answer of Lord Baltimore,
Lord and Proprietary of Maryland. Concerning a treaty of
cessation from planting tobacco for a year between Virginia and
Maryland ; referring to their previous report of 25 Nov. 1664, when
it was ordered in Council that there should be no cessation, stint, or
limitation imposed on the planting of tobacco in those colonies.
[N.B.—This report is full of alterations and corrections, and appears
to have originally stood as an order ratifying the above-mentioned
order of 25 Nov. 1664 and confirming the same, but this last paragraph
is entirely struck out.] 2 pp. [Col. Papers, Vol. XXI., No.
140.]
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October.
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1619. Commission from the Lords Proprietors of Carolina to
Samuel Stephens. Appointing him Governor of their county of Albemarle,
with power to nominate and appoint 12 able men at most,
six at least, to be of his Council, or any even number between six and
12, unless the Lords Proprietors have before chosen them. He is
also appointed Commander-in-chief, with all powers thereto belonging.
½ p. [Col. Entry Bk., No. XX., p. 23.]
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Oct.?
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1620. Instructions from the Lords Proprietors of Carolina to
Samuel Stephens, Governor of the county of Albemarle. To take
six councillors at least, or twelve at most, or any even number
between those numbers, and to govern during their Lordships' pleasure
according to the following limitations and instructions. The
chief registrar or secretary to keep books of all public affairs, and to
enter all grants of lands, &c. The Surveyor-General to lay out and
bound all lands granted, but the Governor and Council to have power
to suspend those officers for misbehaviour. All officers appointed by
the Governor to be during their Lordships' pleasure. The oath of
allegiance to be taken by councillors, assemblymen, and officers.
Persons subscribing to said oath to be admitted to plant, and to
become freemen of the Province. Liberty of conscience granted
in matters of religion, behaving peaceably and not using this liberty
to licentiousness, to the civil injury or outward disturbance. Power
given to the General Assembly by Act to appoint ministers or
preachers, and to establish their maintenance, with liberty besides
to any to keep and maintain what ministers and preachers they
please. The inhabitants or chief agents to choose 12 deputies or
representatives from amongst themselves to join with the Governor
and Council in making laws ; but as soon as parishes, denizens,
tribes ; or "districtions" of said county are made, then the inhabitants
or freeholders, by writs from the Lords Proprietors, shall
annually meet on 1st January, and choose two freeholders for each
respective denizen, tribe, or parish, to be deputies or representatives
of the same, who with the Governor and Council shall be the General
Assembly, unless the Governor shall wilfully refuse, in which case
they may themselves appoint a President during the absence of the
Governor. Said Assembly to appoint their own times of meeting to
make laws, under certain reservations, and to constitute courts, and
appoint officers and their salaries ; to levy taxes, to erect baronies
and manors, and divide the county into hundreds, &c. ; to create and
appoint ports, harbours, &c. ; to build forts, castles, cities, towns, &c.,
and furnish same with ordnance, arms, and ammunition, for the
safety and welfare of the county, also to train soldiers. To naturalize
strangers upon their subscribing to the oath of allegiance. To prescribe
the quantities of land to be from time to time allotted, and to
ordain rules for the casting of lots for the same, but no grant to
exceed the proportions granted by the Lords Proprietors as herein
set forth. Lastly, to enact all necessary laws for the prosperity and
settlement of said county with the limitations herein expressed ;
also to see the laws enforced, and to punish all offenders against
them. To nominate, according to the constitutions of the General
Assembly, and commissionate judges and all civil officers, being freeholders,
during pleasure. To appoint courts in criminal causes, and to
inflict fines, imprisonment, banishment, corporal punishment, or the
taking away of member, or of life itself. To place officers and
soldiers in the forts or cities ; to nominate and commissionate military
officers, and to muster and train soldiers. To reprieve after condemnation
until the case be presented to the Lords Proprietors, who
will either pardon or command execution of the sentence. To issue
writs for the election of representatives within the year in case of
death or removal ; to seal grants of land according to the Lords
Proprietors' concessions, and the prescriptions by the advice of the
General Assembly. Also instructions for the better securing of the
proprieties of all the inhabitants, and for the more speedily planting
of the county. Form to be used for grants of land, and rules to be
observed in the laying out of lands for cities, towns, and villages,
the making of streets, also the quantity of land to be allotted to
each house, the 1/11 part of which is to be by lot laid out for the Lords
Proprietors, and the rest divided among those willing to build thereon,
and paying a yearly rent of ½d. per acre. 4½ pp. [Col. Entry Bk.,
No. XX., pp. 25-29.]
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October.
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1621. Warrant from the Lords Proprietors of Carolina to Sam.
Stephens, Governor of Albemarle county, and his Council. To let, sell,
or convey lands in said county according to their Lordships' instructions
and concessions, with the reservation of a yearly rent of ½d.
per acre to their Lordships, their heirs, and assigns. With powers
concerning government as granted to their Lordships by charter,
provided no laws be made to be in force longer than 18 months,
within one year of which they shall be presented to the Lords
Proprietors for their assent. 1½ pp. [Col. Entry Bk., No. XX.,
pp. 23, 24.]
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Oct.
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1622. Mem. of grant to Sir Ernestus Biron of the office of
Escheator in Barbadoes and all the Caribbee Islands. [Dom.
Chas. II., Vol. CCXI., No. 123, Cal., p. 557.]
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