Refers to the bloody wars between the two nations caused by differences in these and other remote parts, and to the blessed peace lately brought to pass.
Is informed to his great amazement that Pearson is resolved to erect a lodge for the Royal Company at Little Comanij, and that he has already at Adga set up his Majesty's standard, contrary to the treaty.
It is beyond all dispute that the coast of Comanij, by a free resignation of the natives, solely belongs to the Dutch Company and has always been possessed by them; for though Adga was in 1664 under pretence of friendship subdued by his Majesty's forces, yet by the reducing of Fort Cormantyn by Admiral Michael De Ruyter it was recovered, as was the case with Audmabo.
Both Little Comanij and Adja were conquered and possessed by the Dutch Company before the 10/20 of May last; desires him therefore to quit both places.
But if Pearson persists will be forced to transmit his complaints to those it belongs to, and meantime use such means as he shall find most fitting.
Castle of St. George De Mina in Guinea, 1668, Jan. 23/Feb. 2. --- #1780. III. Answer of Thomas Pearson to Dirck Wilree.
It does not a little trouble us that you should bring our right of repossessing Adga in question, for by the treaty the English have justice on their side, since they were the last possessors in the late war.
And as to Commendo, the English bought their possession there, and were never dispossessed by arms; the Netherlands Company had also their factory there, and each enjoyed a full trade, than which there is nothing more desired by them.
[July 3.] 1668 #1780. Petition of the Royal African Company to the King. [Charles II]
Petitioners have lately received from Thomas Pearson, their chief agent on the Gold Coast of Guinea, the annexed papers, and apprehend that the Director-General of the Hollands West India Company on that coast intends to repeat what he practised in 1662, in order to the exclusion of petitioners from their rights and trade.
Pray therefore for an examination of the matter, and his Majesty's commands concerning the same. --- Annexed:
#1780. I. Thomas Pearson and others to the Royal African Company.
Since his last they have been visited by the Dutch, who demanded the relinquishment of Adga and to desist from settling at Commenda.
Has sent their letter and protest about Adga, possession of which shall be maintained till decided by their Honours and the Dutch Company; who as justly may plead a right to all their possessions as to Adga, which is a place of importance, the natives of which are very desirous that the English Company traffic in their country.
Desire supplies of necessaries for fortifying and repairing their forts and factories, for want whereof their possessions are extremely gone to ruin.
A very dead trade at present, owing to a war in Arcanij.
Since the arrival of the ships licensed by their Honours have not taken one mark of gold, nor can expect it, said ships selling their goods at such low rates. Adga was possessed by them in 1666 in the time of the siege of Cormantyn, and has not been possessed by any nation since; and as to Commenda, their Honours always had a house and factors there, till the late war.
The King of Commenda is very desirous they should settle there as formerly.
Sept. 12. 1668 James Baskerville to Williamson. Bristol
Two small vessels have arrived from France, and the Bristol Merchant from the Straits.
One of them saw the Sallee man-of-war pirate, which lately took 2 small Bristol ships and made them prize, and the men slaves; but she being a ship of a good size, the pirate left her. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 246, No. 30.] --- Allin is on his way to deal with these pirates ... again.
@@@ Sept. 12. 1668 Rich. Watts to [Williamson]. Deal
The Vice and Rear Admiral have sailed for the river to be paid.
There was a report that a great fire had happened at a farm at Baston, 7 miles from Dover, when 500/. worth of corn was burnt, with the house, barn, &c., but on going there, found only a kitchen or brewhouse destroyed.
Sixteen merchant ships have sailed from the Downs outward bound.
Only his Majesty's ships Dartmouth and Sweepstakes and 2 merchant ships are remaining. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 246, No. 31.] --- The Vice and Real Admirals???????????????????????
@@@ Sept. 12 . 1668 Edw. Kinaston to Rob. Francis.
Being informed that received the 50/., I send a bill for 40/., which you are to pay at sight and give an account of this and another concern. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 246, No. 32.] --- L&M Companion -- Edward Kinaston -- A merchant involved in the supply of victuals for Tangier. https://www.pepysdiary.com/encycl… @@@
Sept. 12. 1668 Extract from a paper of news. The King will proceed against privateers who have taken 80 vessels last month, and has written positively to the French King about them, especially to Virginia ships, threatening to grant letters of reprisal. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 246, No. 33.] --- London wants its tobacco back. I don't recall Pepys saying he smoked ever.
Are these the Ostenders again, or a more general mercantile attack by French privateers? Tobacco was - in England - thought to keep the plague away. Maybe this is the reason for these attacks?
@@@ Sept. 12. 1668 Edw. Byland to Sam. Pepys. Woolwich
Twelve of the calkers pressed have appeared and are at work, but with much discontent, and give out they will be gone if the rest come not. Desires some course to be taken with those behind.
Must leave the new ship if the provisions come not suddenly; broom is wanted.
Shall launch the Portsmouth next spring [tide], and will dock the bulk and trim her, and then the Assistant, if they approve. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 246, No. 27.]
@@@ Sept. 12. 1668 Warrant for a pardon to George Ball, late captain of the Hampshire frigate, in consideration of his former loyalty and services in the late war, of 425/., in which sum he is condemned by the Commissioners for inquiry into the embezzlement of prize goods. [S.P. Dom., Entry Book 26, f. 39.]
@@@ Sept. 12. 1668 Caveat in favour of Dr. Killigrew, that nothing pass concerning the rectory of St. Olave's, Southwark. [S.P. Dom., Entry Book 32, p. 3.] --- This might be Dr. Henry Killigrew (1613–1700)? https://www.pepysdiary.com/encycl…
@@@ Sept. 12. 1668 Bristol. Rich. Ellsworth to Williamson.
I beg you to recommend [Sam.] Wood, prebend of Bristol, for a vacant living, and I will see you gratified to your content. You may boldly assert him to be orthodox, as he not only has my lord bishop's and the Dean and Chapter's certificate for his qualifications, but he was also a commission officer in the wars, and for his loyalty and affection, an order was made by the committee of Somersetshire, after the Parliamentary forces had gotten those parts, that he should not preach within the county on pain of imprisonment, which circumstance will weigh with their lordships.
Did I not know him to be every way qualified, I durst not, as a gentleman in ordinary of his Majesty's Privy Chamber, venture to recommend him. [Much damaged. S.P. Dom., Car.II. 246, No. 28.]
@@@ Sept. 12. 1668 Ant. Thorold to Hickes. Lyme
The Sarah and Jane from Morlaix reports that there is not a carpenter to be had there, they being all impressed and carried to Brest, Rochelle, and other places, where the French King is building many ships of war;
also that a strict prohibition is made by the Parliament of Brittany against all commerce with Rouen, and other infected places in Normandy. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 246, No. 29.] --- Plague is spreading
Sept. 12. 1668 Roger Baker, purser of the Dartmouth in the Downs, to Sam. Pepys London.
Capt. [Rich.] Trevanion wishes the Board to know that his provisions will be expired the 26th inst., and desires orders. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 246, No. 24.]
@@@ Sept. 12. 1668 Sir John Knight to the Navy Commissioners. Bristol
Hopes that the Edgar will soon be ready for sea, and that Mr. Baylie will not be a hindrance to her despatch, her guns and shot being all in the hold, and the flyboat that brought them discharged. Pray's orders to supply what shall be wanting, if certified by the captain, that her despatch may not be retarded. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 246, No. 25.]
Encloses, Demand of stores required by the carpenter of the Edgar, and certified by the captain to be wanting. – 12 Sept. 1668. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 246, No. 251.]
@@@ Sept. 12. 1668 Wm. Acworth, storekeeper, to the Navy Commissioners. Woolwich
Several demands for a supply of deals have been made, but only 1,000 from Deptford received. Is informed that there is a considerable fleet of ships arrived from Norway with deals, which when stacked or housed, it is a charge to remove to the waterside and put them into lighters; therefore now is a cheap time to buy. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 246, No. 26.] --- Acworth is back at work? He better not slip up again. https://www.pepysdiary.com/encycl…
Sept. 11. 1668 Hull Charles Whittington to Williamson.
Has had orders from the Farmers of the Customs to keep out all vessels from infected places in France; has therefore ordered 3 from Rouen to lie out their quarantine, and 2 from Ostend to stay out a day for examination.
The Ostenders report the arrival there of a new General, called Pedro de Valesco.
Several ships have sailed for Holland, &c., laden with commodities of these parts, and others have come in. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 246, No. 19.] --- We've been seeing warnings around the plague spreading around Lille, Douai, etc. for months. I'm surprised by the slowness of English response. https://www.pepysdiary.com/diary/… @@@
Sept. 11. 1668 Woolwich Account sent by Wm. Sheldon to the Clerk of the Acts of the Navy [Pepys], of the absence of officers belonging to 5 ships named, at night musters between 11 and 19 Sept. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 246, No. 21.] --- This shows is that Balty's apology for not being able to do the muster on the day appointed was part of a general head count. https://www.pepysdiary.com/diary/… @@@
Sept. 11. 1668 Wm. Acworth and 2 others to the Navy Commissioners. Woolwich.
Sir John Shaw's hemp is all come in, and the refuse weighed and gone, and a bill demanded for what is received. Ask whether to make the bill for all at 25/. a ton.
More tar will soon be wanted by the ropeyard. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 246, No. 22.] @@@
Sept. 11. 1668 Fras. Hosier to Sam. Pepys. Gravesend
Sends loose sheets ruled for a book, and will transmit the rest as soon as he has finished transcribing the book they sent him. Will use speed and care in the other book promised. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 246, No. 23.] --- Follow-up to Pepys’ visit on Sunday, September 9, 1668 https://www.pepysdiary.com/diary/…
Sept. 10. 1668 Capt. John Tinker, master attendant, to the Navy Commissioners. Portsmouth.
Particulars of a tongue of gravel, 150 ft. long and 50 wide, in the channel between the Platform and Southsea Castle.
Thinks it would be prejudicial to the harbour to remove it, as it lies in an eddy, and if stirred, the tide would carry it into the middle and make a bed there; it is no inconvenience to those who know the harbour or have a pilot, but would be prejudicial to an enemy;
has buoyed it that his Royal Highness may see how it lies when he comes. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 246, No. 18.]
I just reread the Wikipedia entry for Gravesend, and noted that Cobham Hall, home of Charles Stewart, Duke of Richmond and Lennox, is 5 miles east of Gravesend.
For Sept. 9, 1668 correspondence: The volume covering correspondence from November 1667 through September 1668, is at https://play.google.com/books/rea… PAGES 626-627
Sept. 9. 1668 Capt. John Wettwang to the Navy Commissioners. Bristol
Mr. Baylie goes on pretty well with his work, so I hope the Edgar will be in a condition to go into King Road in 14 days.
I shall have all the guns out of the flyboat today, and discharge her.
I wish the 100 men from Portsmouth were here; I could do well with 20 more, and hope you will send good men, as in the other 5 there were but 2 seamen. I have 83 upon the ship, but besides the officers, there are but 10 able seamen. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 246, No. 12.]
@@@ Sept. 9. 1668 Daniel Furzer to the Navy Commissioners. Beachey
Sends account of work to be performed on the Edgar. Has not had time to transcribe it, so sends it as taken aboard; it might as well have been sent by the same hand that sent the complaint.
Knows no reason for backwardness except that the builder was dubious whether some things were his work or not; this should be judged by the contract. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 246, No. 13.]
Sept. 8. 1668 Will. Hannam, master attendant, to the Navy Commissioners Woolwich.
I mustered with Mr. Sheldon, and found but 2 boys aboard the Foresight, one aboard the Centurion, and upon the Jersey there was neither man nor boy. This bad attendance of officers and ordinary gives opportunity to steal;
on the Jersey the gunner's servant broke open the carpenter's storeroom and stole 2 cwt of iron, but the boatswain of the Falcon meeting with it, took it again, and the man ran away and hides himself. I desire your order in case I meet with him.
There are 60 men in ordinary, but I never receive help from them, although there is a great deal to do in setting and taking out masts.
The purser of the Dover makes no way to clear the ship of empty casks, so as to come at the ballast to lighten her; she grounds every spring (tide), and yet only draws 14 feet of water. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 246, No. 2.]
@@@ Sept. 8. 1668 Joshua Child and Thos. Papillon to Sam. Pepys.
Ask leave for the bearer to take a copy of the contract for victualling the Navy, and for some of the clerks to direct him in the amendments, to put everything in its right place. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 246, No. 3.]
@@@ Sept. 8. 1668 Duke of Richmond and Lenox to Sam. Pepys. Whitehall
Thanks for giving Captain Holmes despatch; I wish to speak with you at my lodgings tomorrow at 9 o'clock. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 246, No. 4.] --- Charles Stewart, Duke of Richmond and Lenox was the person sent to arrange James, Duke of York's recent investature as Lord of the Cinque Ports at Dover. I wonder what "observations" he has for Pepys.
If you're into the Levant Company, they sent instructions to a number of their North African agents ... they were all different, but incorporated versions of the following:
Levant Company to Rich. Langley (treasurer at Smyrna).
We complain of the infrequency of your accounts, and of a charge of 3,600 dollars on the company not explained; you must send accounts every 6 months, and oftener if you require to draw money. We approve of your care of Consul Cave's chamber and warehouse on his decease, and the frugality of your disbursements, but refuse to allow the charge for feasting, or half the rent of the Consul's house; we wish your accounts to be audited in future.
The factors are to sell only for weighty money, to prevent the inundation of false money sent home. All consulage is paid except Capt. Woodgreen's in 1663. Consul Cave's funeral is to be charge: l on his own estate, and also 1,163 dollars excepted against in his accounts. Mr. Mowse's executors say that part of this money was extorted from him by the late Consul, in which case it must be repaid. We will not admit the Ambassador's claim to an interest in the consulage of goods on strangers' ships coming under English protection; and we shall not allow in future foreign ships to come under English protection. The loss of the Leghorn vessel in the Turks' service must be compensated for by yourself or the Consul, who encouraged her to wear English colours, if mischief should happen. Your manifest about the Ann and Christopher should have given the marks of the goods, so as to distinguish whether she has paid consulage. Orders about duties to be levied on particular factors; 2 dollars per cloth is to be levied on the company's goods, and 20 per cent. on those of interlopers or other unfree men. Benj. Whetcombe, a member of the company, is allowed to send 40 per petuanies to Smyrna if they remain unsold, provided consulage has been paid. [S.P. Foreign, Levant Co. 5, pp. 194-8.]
@@@ Sept. 8. 1668 Capt. John Wettwang to Col. Middleton, Navy Surveyor. Bristol.
Particulars of the fitting of (the Edgar). Has taken the guns into the hold instead of ballast, and discharged the ship that brought them. Is much straitened for men, and wishes those from Portsmouth were come; Has much trouble to get things done, having to give brandy and strong beer, and sometimes drinking money, and if he has not allowance for it, shall be a great loser; is 80/. out already; hopes he may be thought on. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 246, No. 1.]
"... and coming back I spent reading of a book of warrants of our office in the first Dutch war, and do find that my letters and warrants and method will be found another gate’s business than this that the world so much adores, and I am glad for my own sake to find it so."
The "good old days" of the Commonwealth, when all the trains ran on time, and Oliver Cromwell was a much better administrator than Charles II, were much admired at this time. I'm guessing the Committeemen that Pepys has been dealing with for the last year have been leading him to believe his books were not up to those kept during the First Anglo-Dutch War.
We have heard in the past that every few months Pepys takes his files to the book binders to be hard bound ... sorry, can't find the references now ... and so he's borrowed a First Anglo-Dutch War one from storage to see how his compare. He is relieved to find his stand the comparison.
For a 1668 update on England's efforts to regain St. Kitts after the Treaty of Breda from the French, see 4 annotations, starting at https://www.pepysdiary.com/diary/…
Sept. 7. 1668 Sir T. Clifford to Williamson. Whitehall
We shall meet at the Treasury this afternoon, and I will send you an express tonight. Sir John Shaw promised on Saturday that 10,000/. should be paid into the Exchequer today, which will be all sent to Portsmouth for the yards, and will do more than pay two quarters. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 245, No. 193.]
@@@
Sept. 7. 1668 Sir T. Clifford to Williamson. 4 p.m. Whitehall
I have got the 10,000/. paid in, and Mr. Fenn has been directed to receive and send it to Portsmouth immediately.
The Lord General has written an order for guards to conduct it; it will be at Portsmouth by Wednesday night. [S.P. Dom., Car. II. 245, No. 194.] --- John Fenn -- L&M Companion -- Paymaster to the Navy Treasurer.
How many guards and how many carts to move 10,000/. from London to Portsmouth? Where do they stay overnight, or do they go straight through? Pepys usually breaks at Guildford. And it can't be in gold bars because they will pay "more than two quarters" (I presume that means salaries, which would take bulky coins). No wonder there were highwaymen! This might take a highway gang, but it would be worth it. Thinking about it, I'm surprised the guards didn't make off with the money.
And they do this without banks. Sir John Shaw, a farmer of the customs 1662-1671 (which might account for his positive cash flow at this time), must have had a big vault in his house/place of business next to James Houblon Snr. in London Wall. https://www.pepysdiary.com/encycl…
Sept. 6. 1668 Hugh Salesbury to Williamson. Portsmouth
The Dragon and 2 others have been paid off with great satisfaction, and 100 of the marines are to go to Bristol to bring about the Edgar, 5/. and upwards being stopped from each as a pledge until the work is performed.
The fleet has sailed from Cowes.
His Majesty intending to be at Portsmouth on Thursday, I beg, if Lord Arlington comes with him, that I may be recommended to him, as being mayor of the town, I shall have to attend his Majesty on his arrival. [S.P. Dom., Car. 11. 245, No. 187.]
Comments
Second Reading
About Friday 3 July 1668
San Diego Sarah • Link
#1780. II.
Dirck Wilree to Thos. Pearson.
Refers to the bloody wars between the two nations caused by differences in these and other remote parts, and to the blessed peace lately brought to pass.
Is informed to his great amazement that Pearson is resolved to erect a lodge for the Royal Company at Little Comanij, and that he has already at Adga set up his Majesty's standard, contrary to the treaty.
It is beyond all dispute that the coast of Comanij, by a free resignation of the natives, solely belongs to the Dutch Company and has always been possessed by them; for though Adga was in 1664 under pretence of friendship subdued by his Majesty's forces, yet by the reducing of Fort Cormantyn by Admiral Michael De Ruyter it was recovered, as was the case with Audmabo.
Both Little Comanij and Adja were conquered and possessed by the Dutch Company before the 10/20 of May last;
desires him therefore to quit both places.
But if Pearson persists will be forced to transmit his complaints to those it belongs to, and meantime use such means as he shall find most fitting.
Castle of St. George De Mina in Guinea, 1668, Jan. 23/Feb. 2.
---
#1780. III.
Answer of Thomas Pearson to Dirck Wilree.
It does not a little trouble us that you should bring our right of repossessing Adga in question, for by the treaty the English have justice on their side, since they were the last possessors in the late war.
And as to Commendo, the English bought their possession there, and were never dispossessed by arms;
the Netherlands Company had also their factory there, and each enjoyed a full trade, than which there is nothing more desired by them.
About Friday 3 July 1668
San Diego Sarah • Link
The following correspondence was discussed by Charles II and the Privy Council today.
PLANTATION CORRESPONDENCE,
https://www.british-history.ac.uk…
[July 3.] 1668
#1780.
Petition of the Royal African Company to the King. [Charles II]
Petitioners have lately received from Thomas Pearson, their chief agent on the Gold Coast of Guinea, the annexed papers, and apprehend that the Director-General of the Hollands West India Company on that coast intends to repeat what he practised in 1662, in order to the exclusion of petitioners from their rights and trade.
Pray therefore for an examination of the matter, and his Majesty's commands concerning the same.
---
Annexed:
#1780. I.
Thomas Pearson and others to the Royal African Company.
Since his last they have been visited by the Dutch, who demanded the relinquishment of Adga and to desist from settling at Commenda.
Has sent their letter and protest about Adga, possession of which shall be maintained till decided by their Honours and the Dutch Company; who as justly may plead a right to all their possessions as to Adga, which is a place of importance, the natives of which are very desirous that the English Company traffic in their country.
Desire supplies of necessaries for fortifying and repairing their forts and factories, for want whereof their possessions are extremely gone to ruin.
A very dead trade at present, owing to a war in Arcanij.
Since the arrival of the ships licensed by their Honours have not taken one mark of gold, nor can expect it, said ships selling their goods at such low rates.
Adga was possessed by them in 1666 in the time of the siege of Cormantyn, and has not been possessed by any nation since; and as to Commenda, their Honours always had a house and factors there, till the late war.
The King of Commenda is very desirous they should settle there as formerly.
Cape Coast Castle, 1668, February 18.
About Saturday 12 September 1668
San Diego Sarah • Link
Sept. 12. 1668
James Baskerville to Williamson.
Bristol
Two small vessels have arrived from France, and the Bristol Merchant from the Straits.
One of them saw the Sallee man-of-war pirate,
which lately took 2 small Bristol ships and made them prize, and the men slaves;
but she being a ship of a good size, the pirate left her.
[S.P. Dom., Car. II. 246, No. 30.]
---
Allin is on his way to deal with these pirates ... again.
@@@
Sept. 12. 1668
Rich. Watts to [Williamson].
Deal
The Vice and Rear Admiral have sailed for the river to be paid.
There was a report that a great fire had happened at a farm at Baston, 7 miles from Dover, when 500/. worth of corn was burnt, with the house, barn, &c., but on going there, found only a kitchen or brewhouse destroyed.
Sixteen merchant ships have sailed from the Downs outward bound.
Only his Majesty's ships Dartmouth and Sweepstakes and 2 merchant ships are remaining.
[S.P. Dom., Car. II. 246, No. 31.]
---
The Vice and Real Admirals???????????????????????
@@@
Sept. 12 . 1668
Edw. Kinaston to Rob. Francis.
Being informed that received the 50/., I send a bill for 40/., which you are to pay at sight and give an account of this and another concern.
[S.P. Dom., Car. II. 246, No. 32.]
---
L&M Companion -- Edward Kinaston -- A merchant involved in the supply of victuals for Tangier. https://www.pepysdiary.com/encycl…
@@@
Sept. 12. 1668
Extract from a paper of news.
The King will proceed against privateers who have taken 80 vessels last month, and has written positively to the French King about them, especially to Virginia
ships, threatening to grant letters of reprisal.
[S.P. Dom., Car. II. 246, No. 33.]
---
London wants its tobacco back. I don't recall Pepys saying he smoked ever.
Are these the Ostenders again, or a more general mercantile attack by French privateers? Tobacco was - in England - thought to keep the plague away. Maybe this is the reason for these attacks?
About Saturday 12 September 1668
San Diego Sarah • Link
@@@
Sept. 12. 1668
Edw. Byland to Sam. Pepys.
Woolwich
Twelve of the calkers pressed have appeared and are at work, but with much discontent, and give out they will be gone if the rest come not.
Desires some course to be taken with those behind.
Must leave the new ship if the provisions come not suddenly; broom is wanted.
Shall launch the Portsmouth next spring [tide],
and will dock the bulk and trim her,
and then the Assistant, if they approve.
[S.P. Dom., Car. II. 246, No. 27.]
@@@
Sept. 12. 1668
Warrant
for a pardon to George Ball, late captain of the Hampshire frigate,
in consideration of his former loyalty and services in the late war,
of 425/., in which sum he is condemned by the Commissioners for inquiry into the embezzlement of prize goods.
[S.P. Dom., Entry Book 26, f. 39.]
@@@
Sept. 12. 1668
Caveat in favour of Dr. Killigrew,
that nothing pass concerning the rectory of St. Olave's, Southwark.
[S.P. Dom., Entry Book 32, p. 3.]
---
This might be Dr. Henry Killigrew (1613–1700)?
https://www.pepysdiary.com/encycl…
@@@
Sept. 12. 1668
Bristol.
Rich. Ellsworth to Williamson.
I beg you to recommend [Sam.] Wood, prebend of Bristol, for a vacant living, and I will see you gratified to your content.
You may boldly assert him to be orthodox, as he not only has my lord bishop's and the Dean and Chapter's certificate for his qualifications, but he was also a commission officer in the wars, and for his loyalty and affection, an order was made by the committee of Somersetshire, after the Parliamentary forces had gotten those parts, that he should not preach within the county on pain of imprisonment, which circumstance will weigh with their lordships.
Did I not know him to be every way qualified, I durst not, as a gentleman in ordinary of his Majesty's Privy Chamber, venture to recommend him.
[Much damaged. S.P. Dom., Car.II. 246, No. 28.]
@@@
Sept. 12. 1668
Ant. Thorold to Hickes.
Lyme
The Sarah and Jane from Morlaix reports that there is not a carpenter to be had there,
they being all impressed and carried to Brest, Rochelle, and other places, where the French King is building many ships of war;
also that a strict prohibition is made by the Parliament of Brittany against all commerce with Rouen, and other infected places in Normandy.
[S.P. Dom., Car. II. 246, No. 29.]
---
Plague is spreading
About Saturday 12 September 1668
San Diego Sarah • Link
Short Diary day, so here is all the mail:
The volume covering correspondence from Nov. 1667 through Sept. 1668 is at
https://play.google.com/books/rea…
PAGES 628-629
Sept. 12. 1668
Roger Baker, purser of the Dartmouth in the Downs, to Sam. Pepys
London.
Capt. [Rich.] Trevanion wishes the Board to know that his provisions will be expired the 26th inst., and desires orders.
[S.P. Dom., Car. II. 246, No. 24.]
@@@
Sept. 12. 1668
Sir John Knight to the Navy Commissioners.
Bristol
Hopes that the Edgar will soon be ready for sea, and that Mr. Baylie will not be a hindrance to her despatch,
her guns and shot being all in the hold, and the flyboat that brought them discharged.
Pray's orders to supply what shall be wanting, if certified by the captain, that her despatch may not be retarded.
[S.P. Dom., Car. II. 246, No. 25.]
Encloses,
Demand of stores required by the carpenter of the Edgar, and certified by the captain to be wanting. – 12 Sept. 1668.
[S.P. Dom., Car. II. 246, No. 251.]
@@@
Sept. 12. 1668
Wm. Acworth, storekeeper, to the Navy Commissioners.
Woolwich
Several demands for a supply of deals have been made, but only 1,000 from
Deptford received.
Is informed that there is a considerable fleet of ships arrived from Norway with deals, which when stacked or housed, it is a charge to remove to the waterside and put them into lighters;
therefore now is a cheap time to buy.
[S.P. Dom., Car. II. 246, No. 26.]
---
Acworth is back at work? He better not slip up again.
https://www.pepysdiary.com/encycl…
About Friday 11 September 1668
San Diego Sarah • Link
The volume covering correspondence from November 1667 through September 1668 is at
https://play.google.com/books/rea…
PAGES 628-629
Sept. 11. 1668
Hull
Charles Whittington to Williamson.
Has had orders from the Farmers of the Customs to keep out all vessels from infected places in France;
has therefore ordered 3 from Rouen to lie out their quarantine,
and 2 from Ostend to stay out a day for examination.
The Ostenders report the arrival there of a new General, called Pedro de Valesco.
Several ships have sailed for Holland, &c., laden with commodities of these parts, and others have come in.
[S.P. Dom., Car. II. 246, No. 19.]
---
We've been seeing warnings around the plague spreading around Lille, Douai, etc. for months. I'm surprised by the slowness of English response.
https://www.pepysdiary.com/diary/…
@@@
Sept. 11. 1668
Woolwich
Account sent by Wm. Sheldon to the Clerk of the Acts of the Navy [Pepys],
of the absence of officers belonging to 5 ships named, at night musters between 11 and 19 Sept.
[S.P. Dom., Car. II. 246, No. 21.]
---
This shows is that Balty's apology for not being able to do the muster on the day appointed was part of a general head count.
https://www.pepysdiary.com/diary/…
@@@
Sept. 11. 1668
Wm. Acworth and 2 others to the Navy Commissioners.
Woolwich.
Sir John Shaw's hemp is all come in, and the refuse weighed and gone,
and a bill demanded for what is received.
Ask whether to make the bill for all at 25/. a ton.
More tar will soon be wanted by the ropeyard.
[S.P. Dom., Car. II. 246, No. 22.]
@@@
Sept. 11. 1668
Fras. Hosier to Sam. Pepys.
Gravesend
Sends loose sheets ruled for a book, and will transmit the rest as soon as he has finished transcribing the book they sent him.
Will use speed and care in the other book promised.
[S.P. Dom., Car. II. 246, No. 23.]
---
Follow-up to Pepys’ visit on Sunday, September 9, 1668
https://www.pepysdiary.com/diary/…
About Thursday 10 September 1668
San Diego Sarah • Link
The volume covering correspondence from November 1667 through September 1668, is at
https://play.google.com/books/rea…
PAGES 628-629
Sept. 10. 1668
Capt. John Tinker, master attendant, to the Navy Commissioners.
Portsmouth.
Particulars of a tongue of gravel, 150 ft. long and 50 wide, in the channel between the Platform and Southsea Castle.
Thinks it would be prejudicial to the harbour to remove it, as it lies in an eddy, and if stirred, the tide would carry it into the middle and make a bed there;
it is no inconvenience to those who know the harbour or have a pilot, but would be prejudicial to an enemy;
has buoyed it that his Royal Highness may see how it lies when he comes.
[S.P. Dom., Car. II. 246, No. 18.]
About Gravesend, Kent
San Diego Sarah • Link
Some pictures of Gravesend today, including one of The Ship and Lobster.
https://spitalfieldslife.com/2021…
@@@
I just reread the Wikipedia entry for Gravesend, and noted that Cobham Hall, home of Charles Stewart, Duke of Richmond and Lennox, is 5 miles east of Gravesend.
About Wednesday 9 September 1668
San Diego Sarah • Link
For Sept. 9, 1668 correspondence:
The volume covering correspondence from November 1667 through September 1668, is at
https://play.google.com/books/rea…
PAGES 626-627
Sept. 9. 1668
Capt. John Wettwang to the Navy Commissioners.
Bristol
Mr. Baylie goes on pretty well with his work, so I hope the Edgar will be in a condition to go into King Road in 14 days.
I shall have all the guns out of the flyboat today, and discharge her.
I wish the 100 men from Portsmouth were here;
I could do well with 20 more, and hope you will send good men, as in the other 5 there were but 2 seamen.
I have 83 upon the ship, but besides the officers, there are but 10 able seamen.
[S.P. Dom., Car. II. 246, No. 12.]
@@@
Sept. 9. 1668
Daniel Furzer to the Navy Commissioners.
Beachey
Sends account of work to be performed on the Edgar.
Has not had time to transcribe it, so sends it as taken aboard;
it might as well have been sent by the same hand that sent the complaint.
Knows no reason for backwardness except that the builder was dubious whether some things were his work or not;
this should be judged by the contract.
[S.P. Dom., Car. II. 246, No. 13.]
About Tuesday 8 September 1668
San Diego Sarah • Link
There's lots of correspondence today, but I accidentally posted the sampling tomorrow. Sorry
About Wednesday 9 September 1668
San Diego Sarah • Link
OOOOppps. Sorry, these should have all gone yesterday ... whis is why Pepys didn't miss his 9 a.m. meeting this morning.
About Wednesday 9 September 1668
San Diego Sarah • Link
Sept. 8. 1668
Will. Hannam, master attendant, to the Navy Commissioners
Woolwich.
I mustered with Mr. Sheldon, and found but 2 boys aboard the Foresight,
one aboard the Centurion,
and upon the Jersey there was neither man nor boy.
This bad attendance of officers and ordinary gives opportunity to steal;
on the Jersey the gunner's servant broke open the carpenter's storeroom and stole 2 cwt of iron, but the boatswain of the Falcon meeting with it, took it again, and the man ran away and hides himself.
I desire your order in case I meet with him.
There are 60 men in ordinary, but I never receive help from them, although there is a great deal to do in setting and taking out masts.
The purser of the Dover makes no way to clear the ship of empty casks, so as to come at the ballast to lighten her;
she grounds every spring (tide), and yet only draws 14 feet of water.
[S.P. Dom., Car. II. 246, No. 2.]
@@@
Sept. 8. 1668
Joshua Child and Thos. Papillon to Sam. Pepys.
Ask leave for the bearer to take a copy of the contract for victualling the Navy,
and for some of the clerks to direct him in the amendments, to put
everything in its right place.
[S.P. Dom., Car. II. 246, No. 3.]
@@@
Sept. 8. 1668
Duke of Richmond and Lenox to Sam. Pepys.
Whitehall
Thanks for giving Captain Holmes despatch;
I wish to speak with you at my lodgings tomorrow at 9 o'clock.
[S.P. Dom., Car. II. 246, No. 4.]
---
Charles Stewart, Duke of Richmond and Lenox was the person sent to arrange James, Duke of York's recent investature as Lord of the Cinque Ports at Dover. I wonder what "observations" he has for Pepys.
About Wednesday 9 September 1668
San Diego Sarah • Link
The volume covering correspondence from November 1667 through September 1668, is at
https://play.google.com/books/rea…
PAGE 624-625
There is a lot of correspondence today.
If you're into the Levant Company, they sent instructions to a number of their North African agents ... they were all different, but incorporated versions of the following:
Levant Company to Rich. Langley (treasurer at Smyrna).
We complain of the infrequency of your accounts, and of a charge of 3,600 dollars on the company not explained;
you must send accounts every 6 months, and oftener if you require to draw
money.
We approve of your care of Consul Cave's chamber and warehouse on his
decease, and the frugality of your disbursements, but refuse to allow the charge for feasting, or half the rent of the Consul's house;
we wish your accounts to be audited in future.
The factors are to sell only for weighty money, to prevent the inundation of false money sent home.
All consulage is paid except Capt. Woodgreen's in 1663.
Consul Cave's funeral is to be charge: l on his own estate, and also 1,163 dollars excepted against in his accounts.
Mr. Mowse's executors say that part of this money was extorted from him by the late Consul, in which case it must be repaid.
We will not admit the Ambassador's claim to an interest in the consulage of goods on strangers' ships coming under English protection; and we shall not allow in future foreign ships to come under English protection.
The loss of the Leghorn vessel in the Turks' service must be compensated for by yourself or the Consul, who encouraged her to wear English colours, if mischief should happen.
Your manifest about the Ann and Christopher should have given the marks of the goods, so as to distinguish whether she has paid consulage.
Orders about duties to be levied on particular factors;
2 dollars per cloth is to be levied on the company's goods, and 20 per cent. on those of interlopers or other unfree men.
Benj. Whetcombe, a member of the company, is allowed to send 40 per petuanies to Smyrna if they remain unsold, provided consulage has been paid.
[S.P. Foreign, Levant Co. 5, pp. 194-8.]
@@@
Sept. 8. 1668
Capt. John Wettwang to Col. Middleton, Navy Surveyor.
Bristol.
Particulars of the fitting of (the Edgar).
Has taken the guns into the hold instead of ballast, and discharged the ship that brought them.
Is much straitened for men, and wishes those from Portsmouth were come;
Has much trouble to get things done, having to give brandy and strong beer, and sometimes drinking money, and if he has not allowance for it, shall be a great loser; is 80/. out already;
hopes he may be thought on.
[S.P. Dom., Car. II. 246, No. 1.]
About Sunday 6 September 1668
San Diego Sarah • Link
"... and coming back I spent reading of a book of warrants of our office in the first Dutch war, and do find that my letters and warrants and method will be found another gate’s business than this that the world so much adores, and I am glad for my own sake to find it so."
The "good old days" of the Commonwealth, when all the trains ran on time, and Oliver Cromwell was a much better administrator than Charles II, were much admired at this time. I'm guessing the Committeemen that Pepys has been dealing with for the last year have been leading him to believe his books were not up to those kept during the First Anglo-Dutch War.
We have heard in the past that every few months Pepys takes his files to the book binders to be hard bound ... sorry, can't find the references now ... and so he's borrowed a First Anglo-Dutch War one from storage to see how his compare. He is relieved to find his stand the comparison.
About First Anglo-Dutch War
San Diego Sarah • Link
For a general description of the first Anglo-Dutch war, see
http://bcw-project.org/military/f…
For a summary of how the first Anglo-Dutch war affected the Navy, see
https://www.pepysdiary.com/encycl…
For a summary of the treatment of prisoners during both the first and second Anglo-Dutch wars, see
https://www.pepysdiary.com/encycl…
About Harwich, Essex
San Diego Sarah • Link
For a summary of the first Anglo-Dutch war see
http://bcw-project.org/military/f…
About Thursday 29 November 1666
San Diego Sarah • Link
For a 1668 update on the loss of Willoughbyland after the Treaty of Breda, see 4 annotations, starting at https://www.pepysdiary.com/diary/…
About St Kitts
San Diego Sarah • Link
For a 1668 update on England's efforts to regain St. Kitts after the Treaty of Breda from the French, see 4 annotations, starting at https://www.pepysdiary.com/diary/…
About Monday 7 September 1668
San Diego Sarah • Link
Sept. 7. 1668
Sir T. Clifford to Williamson.
Whitehall
We shall meet at the Treasury this afternoon, and I will send you an express tonight.
Sir John Shaw promised on Saturday that 10,000/. should be paid into the Exchequer today, which will be all sent to Portsmouth for the yards, and will do more than pay two quarters.
[S.P. Dom., Car. II. 245, No. 193.]
@@@
Sept. 7. 1668
Sir T. Clifford to Williamson.
4 p.m. Whitehall
I have got the 10,000/. paid in, and Mr. Fenn has been directed to receive and send it to Portsmouth immediately.
The Lord General has written an order for guards to conduct it;
it will be at Portsmouth by Wednesday night.
[S.P. Dom., Car. II. 245, No. 194.]
---
John Fenn -- L&M Companion -- Paymaster to the Navy Treasurer.
How many guards and how many carts to move 10,000/. from London to Portsmouth? Where do they stay overnight, or do they go straight through? Pepys usually breaks at Guildford. And it can't be in gold bars because they will pay "more than two quarters" (I presume that means salaries, which would take bulky coins).
No wonder there were highwaymen! This might take a highway gang, but it would be worth it. Thinking about it, I'm surprised the guards didn't make off with the money.
And they do this without banks. Sir John Shaw, a farmer of the customs 1662-1671 (which might account for his positive cash flow at this time), must have had a big vault in his house/place of business next to James Houblon Snr. in London Wall. https://www.pepysdiary.com/encycl…
About Sunday 6 September 1668
San Diego Sarah • Link
The volume covering correspondence from November 1667 through September 1668, is at
https://play.google.com/books/rea…
PAGE 618 – 619
Sept. 6. 1668
Hugh Salesbury to Williamson.
Portsmouth
The Dragon and 2 others have been paid off with great satisfaction,
and 100 of the marines are to go to Bristol to bring about the Edgar,
5/. and upwards being stopped from each as a pledge until the work is performed.
The fleet has sailed from Cowes.
His Majesty intending to be at Portsmouth on Thursday,
I beg, if Lord Arlington comes with him, that I may be recommended to him, as being mayor of the town, I shall have to attend his Majesty on his arrival.
[S.P. Dom., Car. 11. 245, No. 187.]