Journal, May 1715

May 2. Present:—Sir Jacob Astley, Mr. Molesworth, Mr. Cokburne, Mr. Chetwynd, Mr. Cooke, Mr. Docminique.

Newfoundland.

Letter from Mr. Burchet.

Commodores answer to heads of inquiry.

A letter from Mr. Burchet, of 26th April, 1715 [fo. 58, 243], signifying that the Commodore of the Newfoundland Convoy for the last year, is not yet returned with any answers to heads of enquiry &c., was read.

Trade.

Letter from Mr. Secretary Stanhope.

Consuls.

Plantatations General.

Lieut. Generals and Lieut. Governors.

Letter from Mr. Pringle.

List of Lieut.

Governors etc.

A letter from Mr. Secry. Stanhope of the 29th of the last month, signifying his having writ to several consuls upon the Board's letter of the first of the same month [fo. 57, 44], and that he had ordered Mr. Pringle to transmit a list of the Lieutenant Generals and Lieutenant Governors in his Majesty's Plantations in America was read, and a letter from Mr. Pringle of the same date, together with the forementioned list, were likewise read.

Trade.

Letter from Mr. H. Walpole.

Commerce with the Netherlands.

Extracts of letters.

A letter from Mr. Horatio Walpole of the 28th of April past [fo. 66] inclosing extracts of letters from Mr. Leathes and Mr. Laws, relating to the projects for settling the commerce in the Austrian Low Countries was read.

St. Christophers.

Petitions of Salkeld.

The petition of John Salkeld, clerk, praying that in consideration of his services, and the losses he sustained by the French invasion at Nevis, for which he was deprived, of an opportunity of being relieved as other sufferers were, he may have his Majesty's confirmation of the grant made to him by Colonel Codrington of one hundred acres in the late French part of St. Christophers, was read.

St. Christophers.

Draught of representations.

Settlement of St. Christophers.

And then their lordships took into consideration, the draught of a representation to his Majesty [fo. 60, 71], relating to the settlement and disposal of lands in the late French part of St. Christophers, and made a progress therein.

May 3. Present:—Mr. Molesworth, Mr. Cokburne, Mr. Chetwynd, Mr. Cooke, Mr. Docminique.

St. Christophers.

Representation about settlement of French part.

Letter to Mr. Secretary Stanhope.

The draught of a repn. relating to the settlement and disposal of lands in the late French part of St. Christophers, mentioned in yesterdays minutes together with a letter inclosing the same to Mr. Secry. Stanhope, were agreed and signed.

Trade.

Woollen manufactures exported in 18 ¼ years.

Mr. Martyn Inspector Genl. of his Majesty's Customs [fo. 47], attending presented to the Board a book, containing an account shewing the species and quantities of woollen manufactures exported from England, and to what foreign countries respectively, in eighteen years and one quarter distinctly from Michaelmas, 1696 to Christmas, 1714, with an estimate and amount of the value thereof.

St. Christophers.

Representation.

Petitions of French protestants.

The draught of a repn. upon the petition of several French protestant refugees [fo. 70, 72], praying to be restored to their lands in the French part of St. Christophers, was agreed and ordered to be transcribed.

May 4. Present:—Sir Jacob Astley, Mr. Molesworth, Mr. Cokburne, Mr. Chetwynd, Mr. Cooke.

Barbados.

Letter from Mr. Sharpe.

French pretention to St. Lucia and Tobago.

Letter to Mr. Secretary Stanhope.

A letter from Mr. Sharpe president of the Council of Barbadoes, dated the 28th of February, 1714–15 giving an account of the pretentions the French make to the islands of St. Lucia and Tobago, was read; whereupon an extract of the said letter and the papers there inclosed, as also of a repn. (setting forth the right and title of the Crown to those islands) made by this Board to her late Majesty the 2nd of June, 1709, were sent in a letter to Mr. Secry. Stanhope.

St. Christophers.

Representation on petition of French protestants.

Letter to Mr. Secretary Stanhope.

The draught of a repn. upon the petition of several French protestant refugees and others [fo. 71], praying for some lands in the late French part of St. Christophers, as agreed yesterday, together with a letter inclosing the same to Mr. Secry. Stanhope were signed.

New York.

New Jersey.

Instructions for Brigadier Hunter.

Then their lordships taking into consideration, the draughts of instructions for Brigadier Hunter [fo. 75], for the Governments of New York and New Jersey, the said draughts were read, approved and ordered to be transcribed.

New York.

Act for praying the debts of the Colony etc.

to be reported.

An Act passed at New York (referred to in Brigdr. Hunter's letter of the 27th August anno 1714 [fo. 74] entituled An Act for the paying and discharging the several debts and sums of money claimed as debts of this colony to the several persons therein named, and to make and inforce the currency of bills of credit to the value of 27680 pounds for that purpose, also to make void all claims and demands made or pretended to be made from this Colony before the 1st of June, 1714, and to prevent this Colony from being in debt for the future, was read; and their lordships agreed to lay the same with a repn. before his Majesty for his royal approbation.

May 5. Present:—Sir Jacob Astley, Mr. Molesworth, Mr. Cokburne, Mr. Chetwynd, Mr. Cooke, Mr. Docminique.

Maryland.

Orders of Council.

Hart Governor.

Security to be taken.

Letter to Mr. Lowndes.

Two Orders of Council of 29th March, 1715 and 30th April following [Q. fo. 452], approving John Hart esqre, to be Govr. of Maryland, and directing securities to be taken for his observing the acts of trade &c. were read, whereupon a letter to Mr. Lowndes inclosing the draught of a bond [fo. 99] approved of by the Attorney General for the Lords Commrs. of the Treasury's directions therein, was agreed and ordered to be transcribed.

New York.

New Jersey.

Instructions.

Counsellors.

Their lordships took into consideration the filling up the names of Councillors in the New York and New Jersey instructions, and agreed to make no alteration in the former, but added David Lyol in the latter, there being a vacancy.

New York.

Acts for Excise and paying debts.

Representation.

An Act passed at New York, referred to in Brigadier Hunter's letter of the 27th Augt., 1714 [fo. 72, 75], entituled An Act for laying an excise on all strong liquors retailed in that Colony, being considered by their lordships, ordered that a repn. be drawn up for laying the same together with the other for paying and discharging of debts &c. mentioned in yesterday's minutes before his Majesty for his royal approbation.

Leeward Islands.

Mr. Mills.

Debenture.

Mr. John Mills attending, and his letter of attorney from John Woodley, one of the sufferers at Nevis, being examined at the Board, the debenture numbered 524, was delivered to him.

New Hampshire.

Letter from Usher.

Memorial from Sheaf.

Letter from Mr. Usher Lieut. Govr. of New Hampshire, dated the 20th of January, 1715, was read.

Naval Stores.

Mr. Sheaf summoned.

Meml. from Mr. Sheaf [fo. 75], relating to New Hampshire, particularly as to Naval stores, was likewise read, and directions given for him to attend the Board thereupon on Tuesday morning next.

May 6. Present:—Mr. Molesworth, Mr. Cokburne, Mr. Hutcheson, Mr. Chetwynd, Mr. Cooke, Mr. Docminique.

New Hampshire.

Mr. Sheaf's memorial.

Naval Stores.

Bridger and Cummings summoned.

Their lordships taking into consideration Mr. Sheaf's memorial [fo. 74], mentioned in the last minutes, ordered that Mr. John Bridger and Mr. Archld. Cummings have notice to attend the Board on Tuesday morning next.

New York.

New Jersey.

Letter to Mr. Secretary Stanhope.

Brigadier Hunter's instructions.

A letter to Mr. Secry. Stanhope with a repn. to his Majesty [fo. 73, 140] inclosing the draughts of instructions for Colonel Hunter for the govnt. of New York and New Jersey, mentioned in the minutes of the 4th instant, were signed.

New York.

Representation on Acts of excise and for payment of debts.

A repn. to his Majesty upon two New York acts [fo. 74, 140], mentioned in the minutes of the 4th and 5th instant, was signed.

May 9. Present:—Sir Jacob Astley, Mr. Molesworth, Mr. Cokburne, Mr. Hutcheson, Mr. Chetwynd, Mr. Cooke, Mr. Docminique.

Several Lords of the Committee of Council vizt.

Newfoundland.

Lords of the Committee.

Lord President Earl of Halifax, Earl of Orford, Ld. Visct. Townshend, Lord Somers, Mr. Secry. Stanhope coming to the Board.

Memorial from Richards about defence of the place.

Former letter to Mr. Secretary Stanhope.

The memorial from Colonel Richards Surveyor General of the Ordnance, relating to Newfdland. [Q. fo. 444; fo. 79], mentioned in the minutes of the 28th of Febry. last, was read; as also the Boards letter of the 10th of March last [fo. 1], to Mr. Secry. Stanhope thereupon.

Draught of instructions for Commander at Placentia.

Then Mr. Secry. communicated to their lordships the draught of instructions for the Commander in Chief of Placentia [fo. 89], which was read, and the Board was desired to reconsider the same in order to the adding or altering what they should see necessary.

Opinion about fortifications.

Reduction of the garrison.

Their lordships being of opinion that what was proposed by Col. Richards in his forementioned memorial, in relation to the fortifications at Placentia and to the reducing the garrison there was most advantageous in the present circumstances of affairs, the Board was desired to have under consideration what might be done with the garrison, when the same should be reduced.

Letter to Mr. Burchet about Masters of ships bringing home their men.

Money to be sent for the soldiers.

And upon consideration of the ill consequence of the New Englandmen getting away the green men and other seamen from our fishing ships at Newfoundland; ordered [fo. 78] that a letter be writ to, Mr. Burchet to desire him to move the Lords of the Admiralty, that the Commodore of the Newfoundland Convoy be directed to signify to the Masters of all fishing ships, that they take care that none of their men be enticed away by the New England ships, for that if they do not bring home the complement of men they carried out, except in case of death, they will be prosecuted upon their arrival here; and that Capt. Kempthorn be directed to receive on board his ship, such money as the Agents for the soldiers at Newfoundland shall deliver him for the use of the garrison at Placentia.

Trade.

Plantations General.

Letter to Mr. Carkesse.

Duties on wood and timber imported.

Ordered [fo. 97] that a letter be writ to Mr. Carkesse for an account of the duties payable upon the importation of the several species of wood and timber imported into this Kingdom from the Northern Crowns and America.

May 10. Present:—Sir Jacob Astley, Mr. Molesworth, Mr. Cokburne, Mr. Hutcheson, Mr. Chetwynd, Mr. Cooke, Mr. Docminique.

Newfoundland.

Letter to Mr. Burchet.

Masters bringing home their men from Newfoundland and money for the Garrison.

The draught of a Ire. to Mr. Burchet, Secry. to the Lords Commrs. of the Admiralty [fo. 77, 84], relating to the masters of fishing ships at Newfdland. taking care to bring home their complement of men, and to money to be sent for the Garrison at Placentia, was agreed and ordered to be sent.

Massachusets.

Mr. Dummer.

Timber and other naval stores.

To bring a memorial.

Mr. Dummer agent for the province of the Massachusets Bay, attending, and acquainting their lordships, that he had some things to offer to their lordships consideration, relating to the importation of timber and other naval stores from New England; he was desired after some discourse with him upon that subject, to lay before the Board a memorial thereof in writing, as soon as he could, which he promised to do accordingly.

Newfoundland.

Mr. Secretary Stanhope and Colonel Richards.

Defence of Newfoundland.

Work proposed to be done.

Mr. Secry. Stanhope then coming to the Board with Col. Richards, Surveyor General of the Ordnance and formerly Ingineer at Newfdland. Col. Richards after representing to their lordships to the same effect as his memorial mentioned in yesterdays minutes [fo. 76] (Newfoundland L. N. 65) wherein he sets forth the difficulty and useless expense of making any considerable fortifications at Placentia, or any other part of Newfoundland, acquainted the Board that the work he proposed to be done might be finished in one summer if the necessary materials were sent beforehand, which they might be the next spring by the fishing ships, together with the workmen.

Survey of French part of Newfoundland.

Letter from Taverner his report.

Petition of merchants of London.

Letter to Mr. Secretary Stanhope about Taverner's demands.

Taverner to return.

And their lordsps. again considering the survey necessary to be made of the late French part of Newfoundland, and other places adjacent, the letter from Capt. Taverner of the 22nd Octr., 1714 [Q. fo. 445], together with the said Taverner's report touching his proceedings in the said survey were read, as likewise Mr. Secry. Stanhope's Ire. to the Board of the 19th of March last [fo. 26] upon the petition of several merchants of London, relating to the same subject, and the answer made by the Board to Mr. Secry. the 23rd of the same month. And it appearing by Capt. Taverner's said report that he had hired a small vessel, and been at other expence in the survey he has been imployed in; their lordships agreed and signed a letter to Mr. Secry. Stanhope to inclose a copy of the said Taverner's demands and desire Mr. Secry. will please to lay the same before his Majesty for his directions thereupon, as likewise humbly to represent the opinion of this Board, that Capt. Taverner do return at the end of this summer season, to give account of what he has done.

Map &c. to be published.

Ordered that the secretary take care, that the chart of the island and harbour of St. Peter's, with the island of Columba, transmitted with Capt. Taverner's foresaid letter [fo. 316], be printed and published, and so much of his said report, as related to the said islands.

Nova Scotia.

Newfoundland.

Soldiers provisions.

Colonel Vetch summoned.

It being then observed that the soldiers both in Nova Scotia and Newfoundland are often subject to great hardships for want of the necessary supplies of provisions [fo. 84], their lordships resolved to make inquiry of Col. Nicholson, Col. Vetch and others concerned in those parts, what may be the best method to provide for the said soldiers for the future, and ordered [vide infra] that Col. Vetch be desired to attend the Board tomorrow morning.

New England.

Plantations General.

Mr. Cummings and Vaughan.

Timber.

Naval Stores.

Mr. Cummings, Mr. Vaughan and others attending [fo. 82], in relation to the production of timber and other naval stores in America, they were desired to attend again tomorrow morning.

May 11. Present:—Mr. Molesworth, Mr. Cokburne, Mr. Hutcheson, Mr. Chetwynd, Mr. Cooke, Mr. Docminique.

Nova Scotia.

Colonel Vetch.

Condition of the garrison.

Provisions.

Clothing.

Mr. Norton, Mulcaster, Shirif &c.

summoned.

Colonel Vetch to bring a memorial in writing.

Col. Vetch attending [vide supra, fo. 85], as desired, and being asked several questions in relation to the soldiers in Nova Scotia and the best method of supplying them with provisions &c. He said, he believed they were in great straits and thought the properest way to provide for them would be by contract, which he believed Mr. Borland would readily undertake, if the present arrear of disbursements, due to him for the said soldiers were paid him. And in relation to their clothing Col. Vetch observed, that they had two sets delivered them by Col. Nicholson, the last in Septr., 1714. That what the soldiers were charged 48 or 50 shillings New England money, was sold there at publick outcry for 18sh. the same country money. And Col. Vetch naming Mr. Norton, Mr. Shirif, Mr. Mulcaster and Mr. Wright [fo. 86], as persons who could give further acct. of the said clothing, ordered that they be desired to attend the Board tomorrow morning. Col. Vetch was likewise desired to draw up, and bring their Lordships a Memorial in writing [fo. 85] of his thoughts, as to the supplying the said soldiers with Provisions, and what he knows in relation to their clothing.

Plantations General.

New England.

Mr. Vaughan and Mr. Cummings.

Vaughan's letter and memorial about the plantations.

Naval stores.

Timber &c. carried to Portugal and Spain.

Nova Scotia.

Masts and timber.

Mr. Vaughan who is lately arrived from New England [fo. 81], attending together with Mr. Cummings, Mr. Vaughan's letter dated yesterday, with a memorial containing several observations and proposals relating to His Majesty's plantations on the continent of America were read. And their Lordships asking these gentlemen several questions in relation to naval stores [fo. 84], Mr. Vaughan said that several towns on the River Piscatagua had been destroyed by the Indians and 100 miles of the country depopulated. That the largest masts were in the provinces of Main and New Hampshire, tho' the country abounded with masts and timber as far as Kennebeck river, on the sides of which river, he said the soil is very deep and thought to be capable of producing extraordinary good hemp. That there are great quantities of timber carried from New England to Portugal, and other parts of Europe, and Mr. Vaughan said, he was informed the ship he now came in to Cadiz, was loaden with timber which he believed would be unloaden there. And he added that he had never heard of any restraint laid upon that trade. Mr. Cummings being asked if he knew what masts or timber was produced in Nova Scotia, he said he had heard there were masts of 37 inches diameter and that the French had formerly supplied their Navy from thence.

New England.

Plantations General.

Vaughan and Cummings to attend again.

Mr. Vaughan and Mr. Cummings were then desired to attend again on Wednesday morning next, which they promised to do accordingly.

Nova Scotia.

Newfoundland.

Soldiers supply of provisions.

And Mr. Cummings being asked his opinion about supplying the soldiers in Nova Scotia and Newfoundland with provisions [fo. 81, 89], he said in his opinion it would be best done by contract.

New England.

Plantations General.

Sheaf.

Naval Stores.

To bring a memorial in writing.

Mr. Sheaf attending likewise their Lordships had some discourse with him in relation to naval stores [fo. 83, 101], and being asked, what he thought would be a sufficient encouragement to enable the merchants to supply us as cheap as the like stores are brought from the Northern Crowns. He said as to timber and boards, he was of opinion that the taking off the duty only would effect it. And being then desired he promised to put into writing what he had further to offer in like manner as to the several other species of naval stores, and bring the same on Wednesday next.

Newfoundland.

Letter from Mr. Burchet.

Masters of fishing ships bringing home their men.

A letter from Mr. Burchet, Secrey. to the Lords of the Admiralty, in answer to Mr. Popple's of 10th instant [fo. 78], relating to the masters of ships bringing home their complements of men from Newfoundland, and to money for the garrison at Placentia, was read.

May 12. Present:—Sir Jacob Astley, Mr. Molesworth, Mr. Cokburne, Mr. Hutcheson, Mr. Chetwynd, Mr. Cooke, Mr. Docminique.

Nova Scotia.

Colonel Vetch.

Memorial about clothing and victualing soldiers.

Hardships of the soldiers &c.

Memorial of Officers about allowance for provisions.

He will procure a copy.

Col. Vetch attending [fo. 81, 82], presented to their Lordships a Memorial relating to the victualling and clothing the garrison at Annapolis in Nova Scotia, which was read; and Col. Vetch in discourse acquainted the Board that the said garrison had no establishment, being now four independent companies found of detachments from other troops. That they could not possibly subsist without an allowance of provisions, besides their pay, and that they would be even less able to support themselves, since, as he heard the French had removed most of their stock and cattle to Cape Briton.—That the Officers of the garrison had signed a memorial, which was transmitted some time ago to Great Britain, relating to the allowance of provision, besides pay for the soldiers there, but that as to other his letters and applications to the late ministry, they never received any answer. And he promised to procure their Lordships a copy of the said memorial.

Mr. Mulcaster, agent.

Provisions and clothing of the soldiers.

He will bring a particular.

Mr. Mulcaster, agent for the forces at Annapolis [fo. 82, 93], attending as desired, and being asked several questions in relation to their condition as to provisions and clothing, he said he had been concerned in that affair, but since Christmas last, Mr. Gordon and Mr. Lyn having been their agents; that as to their provisions, he could give no acct. thereof but promised to bring tomorrow morning, a particular of the quality of their last clothing, and of that for the forces at Placentia.

Mr. Sherrif and Mr. Norton examined.

Invoice of clothing.

Soldiers called in.

Minute of a Council held at Annapolis.

Mr. Sheriff likewise attending and Mr. Norton [fo. 88], as they had been summoned, in relation to the said clothing and provisions for the soldiers at Annapolis, and being each examined thereupon, Mr. Shirrif said, he feared as to provisions, the garrison was in a perishing condition, they having no more than to serve them about six weeks, when he came from thence in Novr. last. That he was informed some provisions and money had been sent them, from New England, since he left those parts. That their clothing is by this time worn out, and he presented to their Lordships, an Invoice of the several species of clothing consigned by General Nicholson to Lieut. Govr. Caulfield at Annapolis for the troops there, with the several prices at which they were charged; and a Serjeant and one of the private centinels who were discharged from the said garrison waiting now at the Office, they were called in, and their clothing viewed, which appeared very bad, and Mr. Sherrif added, that the stockings which had been charged at two shillings a pair, were rotten and unfit for service. Mr. Norton acquainted their Lordships, that clothing had been sent to Major Caulfield for the garrison at Annapolis, and he took it to be of the same species, with what the two men present had on. That as he remembered the centinels clothes were charged, the coat at 20 shillings and the breeches at 7s. 6d. The serjeants coats at 1l. 10s. 0d. and the breeches at ten shillings sterling serjeants hats at 10 shillings and the centinels four shillings; that Major Caulfield had objected, there was no difference as to goodness between the serjeants cloths and the private men's that were sent to him, the Serjeants being only of a different colour. That what was charged at 27 shillings and 6 pence sterling, was sold at a publick outcry at Boston from 18s. 6d. to 23s. that country money. The Serjeants stockings he said, were pretty good, being worth about 3s. and charged 4s. 6d. That the clothing sent to Annapolis, was alledged to be issued out of her Majesty's stores at the price her Majesty paid. And the said soldiers here present, produced the copy of a minute of a Council held at Annapolis to the same purpose, subscribed by General Nicholson. That General Nicholson gave publick notice of the clothing he had to dispose of, which was lodged in Mr. Belchers and Mr. Minots warehouses in Boston, and put up in lots of 5 coats and 5 pair of breeches each lot.—That the money arising by the sale was brought to Mr. Netmaker the General's secretary, the state of the sale being made up every night: and he presumed Mr. Netmaker was accountable for the same.

Newfoundland.

Same clothing for the soldiers there.

Nova Scotia.

Provisions for the garrison.

Mr. Norton to bring a memorial.

Mr. Norton being then asked [fo. 86] whether any of this clothing had been sent for the soldiers at Newfoundland. He said that while he was at Kinsale in Ireland in his passage some bales of the same clothing had been taken out to be sent thither, as he understood and some of the same clothes were likewise sent from Boston to Col. Moody at Placentia in Newfoundld. at the same rate for the soldiers there. That as to provisions for the garrison at Annapolis some money had been left to buy them fresh provisions.— That the four companies there consisted of 53 private men, 3 Serjeants and 2 drums each company, who besides the scarcity of provisions, had the further hardships to be without any bedding.—That the French inhabitants in Nova Scotia were about 400 men.—And that General Nicholson not trusting them, did not admit any into the garrison. Mr. Norton was then desired to put into writing what he knew in relation to those matters [fo. 90], and bring the same to the Board which he promised to do accordingly. And Mr. Shirrif was likewise desired to add what he could in writing upon the same subject [fo. 94.]

Memorial from Officers of the garrison about provisions.

Mr. Shirriff in the meantime presented to the Board a copy of a memorial from the officers of the garrison at Annapolis [fo. 84], relating to the necessity of those forces being supplied with provisions, besides their pay, which was read.

Newfoundland.

Instructions for Commander at Placentia.

Letter to Mr. Secretary Stanhope.

Their Lordships then took into consideration the draught of instructions for the Commander in Chief at Placentia in Newfoundland [fo. 76], mentioned in the minutes of the 9th instant, and signed a letter for transmitting the same, with some few alterations to Mr. Secry. Stanhope.

Newfoundland.

Letter to Mr. Secretary Stanhope.

Answer from Admiralty about return of fishermen &c.

A letter to Mr. Secry. Stanhope acquainting him with the answer sent from the Admiralty to the letter writ to Mr. Burchet the 10th instant, relating to the masters of fishing ships bringing home their complements of men from Newfoundland, and to money for the garrison at Placentia, was signed.

May 13. Present:—Sir Jacob Astley, Mr. Molesworth, Mr. Cokburne, Mr. Chetwynd, Mr. Cooke, Mr. Docminique.

Nova Scotia.

Mr. Norton.

Memorial about garrison of Annapolis.

Mr. Norton attending [fo. 89] presented to their Lordships a memorial which he was desired to draw up, of what he knew relating to the clothing &c. for the garrison of Annapolis Royal in Nova Scotia, which was read.

Colonel Nicholson about state of the garrison.

Col. Nicholson then likewise attending he was asked several questions in relation to the present state of the said garrison of Annapolis, with regard both to provisions and clothing; whereupon he acquainted their Lordships, that he did not apprehend the said garrison, were under any straits for provisions, he having left sufficient to subsist them till the end of June or middle of July next, which had been bought and sent from New England. That Col. Vetch having contracted with Mr. Borland for 7½ each man per diem, Col. Nicholson computed that by his buying the provision at Boston he had reduced that expence to 5d. each man per diem. And as to clothing he said that by order of the Earl of Oxford late Lord High Treasurer, he took a quantity of clothing to be disposed of, for Her Majesty's best advantage, which clothing had been sent with the Canada expedition, and designed to be used there, but returned to England, where Col. Nicholson said he saw, and took charge of it, the same being likewise surveyed by the comptrollers of the Army. That in his voyage to New England, he delivered out part of the said clothes at Kinsale in Ireland, for the use of the soldiers at Placentia in Newfoundland under Col. Moody; and from Boston he sent forward another parcel of the same clothing to Annapolis for the use of the garrison there. Being then asked whether he thought the said clothing proper for the climate either of Canada, Newfoundland, or Annapolis Royal, he said the clothes had no lining, and he owned he did not think them fit for those parts; but that the soldiers at Annapolis were not charged with a whole clothing, tho' he further acknowledged their offreckonings were anticipated for a great while. That Brigadier Hunter had refused to receive any of the same clothing for the forces at New York, but afterwards by special order, took some of them. That the said clothing could not be sold here, but were some of them disposed of in New England, at little more than half the price, charged to the soldiers. Col. Nicholson was then several times pressed by their Lordships to let them know whether he had ever represented the unfitness of the forementioned clothing, as he had owned he thought them to be, for so cold a climate as Nova Scotia or Newfoundland &c. of which he might after viewing them, be very well able to judge, or whether after the first part of this clothing being sent to Annapolis the soldiers or others there, did not complain of their badness, before a second part of the same arrived; Col. Nicholson at last owned that he had made no such representation himself, but brought one home from the Officers, which he said, was at the Secretary of Wars Office, and as to any complaint by the soldiers at Annapolis, he could not charge his memory with any such.

Establishment of the garrison.

Lord Oxford's order about clothing.

Col. Nicholson then communicated to the Board the establishment for the garrison at Annapolis, and the Earl of Oxford's order relating to the said clothing, which were directed to be copied and the originals returned him.

Sufficiency of the establishment.

And upon perusing the said establishment, Colonel Nicholson was asked if he thought the same sufficient. He said he thought it might by having provision answered at 5d. per day each man, the offreckonings 2d. and the remaining 1d. for washing &c.

Mr. Mulcaster his representation and papers about the garrison.

Mr. Mulcaster attending [fo. 86, 94], presented to their Lordships a repn. of the state of the garrison of Annapolis, with five several papers relating thereto, which repn. was read. And their Lordships agreed to take it with the said papers into further consideration tomorrow morning.

May 14. Present:—Mr. Molesworth, Mr. Cokburne, Mr. Chetwynd, Mr. Docminique.

Nova Scotia.

Mr. Mulcaster's papers about the garrison.

The repn. from Mr. Mulcaster [fo. 93, 96], mentioned in yesterday's minutes, with the papers therein referred to, relating to the garrison of Annapolis Royal in Nova Scotia, were taken again into consideration, and a progress made therein.

Mr. Shirrif.

2 Memorials.

State of the garrison.

Complaints of the soldiers.

Soldiers called in.

Mr. Shirrif then attending [fo. 89], two memorials from him, the one relating to the state of the said garrison of Annapolis both as to clothing and provisions &c. the other particularly concerning complaints made by the soldiers there on account of the badness of their clothing were read. And Mr. Shirrif being asked whether Col. Nicholson was at Annapolis before the distribution of the second parcel of clothing to the soldiers, and whether any complaints were made by the soldiers to him, of the clothing before such second distribution, he answered in the affirmative, and further said, that upon the first distribution of the said clothing, the soldiers not only complained to Major Caulfield the Lieut. Govr. before Col. Nicholson's arrival, but returned several clothes to the said Shirrif who had the care of them. And Mr. Shirrif called in Wm. Hawkins formerly a Serjeant of the garrison of Annapolis, and John Lewis a private centinel now discharged from that service, who affirmed to their lordsps. that a petition from the Serjeants, and the case of the private soldiers, had been delivered in writing, complaining of the said clothing to Col. Nicholson before the second distribution thereof, and they promised to bring to the Board on Monday next [fo. 96], the person who wrote the said case of the soldiers,

May 16. Present:—Sir Jacob Astley, Mr. Molesworth, Mr. Cokburne, Mr. Chetwynde, Mr. Cooke.

Nova Scotia.

Papers about the garrison.

Their Lordships went through the consideration of Mr. Mulcasters repn. and papers therein referred to [fo. 94, 99], relating to the garrison at Annapolis, mentioned in the minutes of the 13th instant.

Letter from Mr. Caulfield.

Extract from his brother about.

Hardships of the garrison.

Nicholson's ill behaviour &c.

A letter from Mr. James Caulfield, of this days date, with an extract of a letter from his brother Major Thomas Caulfield Lt. Govr. of Annapolis Royal in Nova Scotia, relating to the hardships the garrison of that place lies under; and to Col. Nicholson's ill treatment of him in relation to his accounts, and the credit wherewith he hath supported the said garrison, were read.

Mr. Shirriff with soldiers of Annapolis.

Person who wrote the soldiers Complaints to Colonel Nicholson.

Mr. Shirrif attending with some of the soldiers discharged from the said garrison of Annapolis, they produced to their Lordships one John Carter [fo. 95], who said he wrote the petition of the serjeants, and case of the soldiers of that garrison, complaining of their clothing to Col. Nicholson, before the second distribution thereof, according as Mr. Shirrif and the forementioned discharged soldiers had alledged, at the last meeting.

Plantations General.

Trade.

Letter from Mr. Carkesse.

Account of duties on timber.

A letter from Mr. Carkesse [fo. 78] of the 14th in answer to one writ him the 9th instant, for an account of the duties upon timber imported from the Northern Crowns, and from America, was read, together with the said account.

Trade.

Reference from Mr. Secretary Stanhope.

Mrs. Milner's petition.

Consulage in Portugal.

Answer to be prepared.

A reference from Mr. Secry. Stanhope of the 4th of May, 1715, upon the petition of Mrs. Elizabeth Milner widow of John Milner Esqr. late Consul General in Portugal [fo. 102], relating to the duty of consulage from the time of Mr. Milners death, to the arrival of John Shippen his successor, was read, together with the said petition, whereupon directions were given for preparing an answer thereto.

Letter from Lord Discount Townshend.

Extract of letter from Mr. Whitworth at Ratisbon.

Ribbon trade &c.

Mr. Martyn summoned.

A letter from the Lord Visct. Townshend of the 11th instant [fo. 123], referring to the Board, the extract of a letter from Mr. Whitworth His Majesty's Plenipotentiary at Ratisbon, relating to a petition presented to the Dyet there, which may tend to affect our ribbon trade in foreign parts, was read; whereupon ordered that Mr. Martyn Inspector General of His Majesty's Customs [v. infra] be acquainted that the Board desire to speak with him tomorrow morning.

Bermuda.

Act about estate of Jennings.

Sent to Mr. Solicitor General.

An Act passed in Bermuda the 14th of October, 1713, Intituled An Act to vest certain lands in Smiths Tribe in Trustees to be sold for payment of the Debts of Richard Jennings Son and Heir of Richard Jennings Merchant deceased &c. being laid before the Board, ordered that the said Act be sent to Mr. Solicitor General for his opinion thereupon in point of law.

May 17. Present:—Mr. Molesworth, Mr. Cokburne, Mr. Hutcheson, Mr. Chetwynd, Mr. Cooke, Mr. Docminique.

Trade.

Mr. Martyn.

Account of wrought silk, ribbon, &c.

sent to Holland and Germany.

Mr. Martyn Inspector Genl. of His Majesty's Customs [v. supra, 122] attending pursuant to the notice, ordered yesterday to be given him, their Lordships desired he would let them have as soon as he conveniently could an account of the Wrought Silks Galloons, Ribbons and Ferret exported from this Kingdom to Holland and Germany for any one year lately passed, which he accordingly promised.

Maryland.

Letters from Lord Guildford.

Sureties for Hart.

Letter to Mr. Lownde with draught of bond.

Two letters from the Lord Guilford Guardian to the Lord Baltemore, dated the 5th and 16th instant, relating to sureties for Mr. Harts observing the Acts of Trade and Navigation in his Government of Maryland were read; and the letter to Mr. Lowndes agreed the 5th instant, to inclose the draught of a bond for the directions of the Lords of His Majesty's Treasury thereupon [fo. 73, 127], was ordered to be sent.

Nova Scotia.

Letter to Mr. Secretary Stanhope.

State of the garrison.

The draught of a letter to Mr. Secry. Stanhope [fo. 96, 101], relating to the state of the garrison at Annapolis Royal in Nova Scotia, as to provisions and clothing &c. was laid before the Board, and a progress made in the consideration thereof.

May 18. Present:—Sir Jacob Astley, Mr. Molesworth, Mr. Cokburne, Mr. Hutcheson, Mr. Chetwynd, Mr. Cooke, Mr. Docminique.

Virginia.

Colonel Jennings summoned.

Ordered that Col. Jennings be desired to attend the Board [fo. 17] at ten of the clock tomorrow morning.

Nova Scotia.

New England.

Letter from Mr. Secretary Stanhope.

Reasons for uniting those governments.

A letter from Mr. Secretary Stanhope of the 15th instant, together with a repn. thereby referred to the Board, containing reasons for giving the Government of Annapolis in Nova Scotia to the Govr. of New England [fo. 102], were read, and an answer to Mr. Secry. Stanhope thereupon ordered to be prepared.

New England.

Mr. Vaughan and Mr. Cummings.

Map of Piscataqua &c.

Naval stores.

Mr. Vaughan and Mr. Cummings attending, Mr. Vaughan communicated to their Lordships a map of Piscataqua River, and another of Boston harbour, with the country about it, and thereupon ordered that a copy of the latter be taken, and these gentlemen were desired to attend the Board tomorrow morning, with Mr. Sheaf in relation to Naval Stores to be produced in New England.

Nova Scotia.

Letter to Mr. Secretary Stanhope.

State of the garrison.

The draught of a letter to Mr. Secry. Stanhope [fo. 99], relating to the state of the garrison of Annapolis in Nova Scotia, as to their provisions and clothing &c. mentioned in yesterday's minutes, was agreed and signed.

May 19. Present:—Sir Jacob Astley, Mr. Molesworth, Mr. Cokburne, Mr. Chetwynd, Mr. Cooke, Mr. Docminique.

New England.

Mr. Cummings memorial.

Deals, timber masts, &c.

Memorial from Mr. Sheaf on same subject.

Mr. Cummings attending, presented to their Lordships a memorial relating to the importation of Deals, Pipe Staves, Timber, and Masts &c. from New England, which was read. And Mr. Sheaf [fo. 84, 103] likewise attending, presented to their Lordships a memorial upon the same subject, which was read.

New England.

Mr. Vaughan concurring therewith.

New Hampshire.

Letter from some of the Council.

Vaughan to sollicit affairs.

Usher's quietus.

Mr. Vaughan, who was present at the same time, whilst the two foresaid memorials were read, declared his sentiments in concurrence therewith; and he afterwards presented to the Board a letter from several of the Council of New Hampshire to himself, dated the 18th of March last, recommending to him the care of the affairs of the province, and desiring Mr. Usher the Lt. Govr. may have his Quietus, which was read.

Trade.

Letter to Mr. Secretary Stanhope.

Petition of Mrs. Milner.

Consulage at Lisbon.

The draught of a letter to Mr. Secretary Stanhope, directed to be prepared the 16th instant, upon the petition of Mrs. Milner [fo. 97], relating to the duty of consulage at Lisbon, between the time of Mr. Milner's the late Consuls death and his successors arrival, was agreed and signed.

Nova Scotia.

New England.

Letter to Mr. Secretary Stanhope about uniting those governments.

The draught of a letter, ordered yesterday to be prepared, to Mr. Secry. Stanhope [fo. 100], relating to a proposal for uniting the government of Nova Scotia to that of the Massachusets Bay, was agreed and signed.

New York.

Memorial from Mr. Strahan.

Clothing received from Nicholson.

Letter to Mr. Secretary Stanhope.

A memorial from Mr. Strahan praying that Brigadr, Hunter, Govr. of New York, may be released from a clothing he was obliged to receive from Col. Nicholson for the forces at New York, was read, and a letter to Mr. Secry. Stanhope, inclosing a copy thereof to be laid before His Majesty, was signed.

May 20. Present:—Sir Jacob Astley, Mr. Molesworth, Mr. Cokburne, Mr. Chetwynd, Mr. Cooke, Mr. Docminique.

New England.

Mr. Bridger about timber and other naval stores.

Mr. Bridger attending in relation to the importation of Timber and other Naval Stores from New England [fo. 101], their Lordships had some discourse with him on that subject, wherein he said, that good merchantable boards might be bought in New England at 35 or 40 shillings, that country money, per thousand feet. That the freight of a tun, which he reckoned at 500 feet, was about 45 or 50 shillings sterlg. That Timber such as knees and plank &c. was at 20 shillings New England money per 50 foot square, whereof 40 foot was computed a tun.

New England.

Queries for Mr. Bridger's answers.

Their Lordships then ordered the following queries to be drawn up for Mr. Bridger's answers in writing [fo. 119] and the same was immediately copied and delivered to him vizt.
1. What proposals he has to make for the preserving of the woods.
2. The prices of all sorts of timber in New England. Specify the several sorts and the sizes.
3. What will be the freight from thence in proper ships.
4. The two last queries, to be answered also in relation to the Northern Crowns.

And upon these queries, add what he may think proper for the incouragement of the Importation of Timber and other Naval stores.

Nova Scotia.

Colonel Vetch's commission.

Letter from Adams about Nicholson's behaviour.

Copies taken.

Col. Vetch attending laid before their Lordships his commission for the government of Nova Scotia and the town and garrison of Annapolis, as likewise a letter from Mr. Adams to Capt, Steele in Boston, dated at Annapolis the 24th of January last, relating to Col. Nicholson's misbehaviour there and the said Commn, and letter were read, whereupon ordered that a copy be taken of the Commission, and an extract of so much of the said letter as relates to Col. Nicholson.

May 23. Present:—Sir Jacob Astley, Mr. Molesworth, Mr. Chetwynd, Mr. Cooke, Mr. Docminique.

Miscellanies.

New commission to Earl of Suffolk and Bindon &c.

A New Commn. under the Great Seal dated the 12th instant, for promoting the trade of this Kingdom and inspecting and improving His Majesty's Plantations in America, directed to the great officers of state as in former commns. for that purpose, and to the Rt. Honble. Henry Earl of Suffolk and Bindon, Sir Jacob Astley knight and Barrt, Robert Molesworth, John Cokburne, Archibald Hutcheson, John Chetwynd, Charles Cooke and Paul Docminique Esqrs. was read.

Trade.

Netherlands.

Letter from Lord Townshend.

A letter from the Lord Viscount Townshend, of the 20th instant, was read, together with the following papers thereby referred to the Board, relating to the commerce between Great Britain and the Austrian Netherlands [fo. 109, 120] and their Lordships made a progress in the consideration thereof, vizt.
Papers therein referred to.
Project of our Treaty of Commerce with the remarks of the Flemish Commissaries.
Particulars wherein the Dutch project for a Treaty of Commerce differs from ours.
Alterations made in the tariff of 1680, since the Battle of Ramillies.
Reasons for incerting an article in the Barrier Treaty, directing the same convention relating to recaptures to be observed between His Britanick Majesty's subjects and those of the Austrian Netherlands, which is in force between the former and the States General.

May 24. Present:—Sir Jacob Astley, Mr. Molesworth, Mr. Cokburne, Mr. Hutcheson, Mr. Chetwynd, Mr. Cooke, Mr. Docminique.

Trade.

Letter from Lord Viscount Townshend.

Extract from Mr. Wich.

Convention with Hambrugh herrings.

A letter from the Lord Viscount Townshend of the 1st of Febry. last together with an extract of a letter from Mr. Wych His Majesty's Resident at Hamburgh [fo. 109, 121] relating to a Convention with that city about the herring trade were read, as likewise.

Another letter from his Lordship with extract from Mr. Wich.

A letter from his Lordships of the 20th instant, referring to the Board the extract of another letter form Mr. Wych upon the same subject.

Lord Townshend's letter to late Board with the Convention.

Mr. Smith desired to attend.

The copy of the said Convention which was transmitted by my Lord Townshend to the late Board of Trade, with his Lordships Ire. of the 12th of October, 1714 (Trade N. No. 199) [Q. fo. 323] was also read; whereupon a progress was made in the consideration thereof, and their Lordships gave directions that Thomas Smith Esqr. of Glasgow [v. infra] be acquainted with the desire of the Board to speak with him at ten of the clock tomorrow morning.

May 25. Present:—Sir Jacob Astley, Mr. Molesworth, Mr. Cokburne, Mr. Chetwynd, Mr. Docminique.

Trade.

Hamburgh herrings.

Mr. Smith of Glasgow.

Letter to Mr. Smith for opinion of North British gentlemen on the Convention and Mr. Wich's letter.

Mr. Smith attending as he had been desired, [v. supra 121], the Convention with Hamburgh relating to the herring trade and the extract of Mr. Wych's letter to my Lord Viscount Townshend of the 16th October last N.S. referred to the Board by his Lordships Ire. of the 12th of the same month old stile (Trade N. No. 199) were read; Whereupon Mr. Smith said that the herrings might be visited, but that the being obliged to repack them would be a great hardship upon that trade, the first packing of the herrings giving them a certain bent, which would make it impossible after once taking them out of the cask to repack them, without bruising and spoiling the fish. Their Lordships after some further discourse with Mr. Smith upon this subject, gave directions for sending to him a copy of the said Convention and of the extract of Mr. Wiche's forementioned letter of the 16th of Octr. [fo. 107] with the signification of the Boards desire that he would please to communicate the same to some of the North British gentlemen here in town, for their opinions and observations thereupon, and what else they may think for the advantage of that trade.

Commerce in the Netherlands considered.

Mr. Drummond summoned.

Their Lordships then made a further progress in considering the several papers, relating to the settlement of our commerce in the Austrian Netherlands [fo. 106, 111] mentioned in the minutes of the 23rd instant, and ordered that Mr. Drummond be desired to attend the Board [fo. 110] thereupon tomorrow morning.

May 26. Present:—Mr. Molesworth, Mr. Cokburne, Mr. Chetwynd, Mr. Cooke, Mr. Docminique.

Trade.

Mr. Drummond.

Explanation of provisional regulation of trade with Flanders.

Mr. Drummond attending [fo. 109] as he had been desired and being asked whether any explanation had been made of the first article of the provisional regulation of trade in the Spanish Low Countries concluded at Utrecht the 15—26 day of July, 1713, he said the Council of the finances at Bruxels had explained it by a declaration of the 16th of Decr., 1713, relating to the Tariffs Lists and Ordinances &c. by which the duties were then raised in Flanders, of which declaration he produced to their Lordships. a copy, and upon examination it appeared to be the same with a paper referred to in Mr. Secry. Bromleys Lre. of the 24th of Decr., 1713 [Q. fo. 103] (Trade Bundle N. 81) Intituled List of the Tariffs and Ordinances by which the customs are raised in the Netherlands. Being farther asked how it came, that the Queens plenipotentiaries did not stipulate the trade on the foot of the Tariff 21 Decr., 1680, as had been recommended by the Board of Trade, he answered that their Lordships thought it more advisable to let it go, as it now stands in the provisional treaty, and explain it afterwards in case any difficulties should arise.

Flanders papers from Lord Townshend considered.

Their Lordships then proceeded in considering the papers referred to the Board, by my Lord Viscount Townshend's Letter of the 20th instant [fo. 109, 113] &c. relating to the British Commerce in the Austrian Low Countries, and made a further progress therein.

May 27. Present:—Mr. Molesworth, Mr. Cokburne, Mr. Chetwynd, Mr. Cooke, Mr. Docminique.

Newfoundland.

Leeward Islands.

Nova Scotia.

Trade.

Letter from Mr. Secretary Stanhope.

Papers from Monsieur D' Iberville.

Answer to be prepared.

A letter from Mr. Secry. Stanhope of the 24th instant, desiring the opinion of the Board upon several papers received from Monsr. D'Iberville [fo. 113], relating to the French at Newfoundland [fo. 113], Trade with Martinique, Inhabitants of Nova Scotia, and the Consul at Tripoli, was read, and the said sevl. papers considered; whereupon directions were given for preparing an answer to Mr. Secry's. foresaid letter.

New England.

Plantations General.

Naval stores.

Surveyor of the woods.

Their Lordships then considering the production of naval stores in New England, and other his Majesty's Plantations on the continent of America, the representations of the 14th of Novr. and of the 19th of Decr., 1705 [K. fo. 102, 146], the former relating to the occasion for an officer to survey and prevent destruction &c. in the woods there, and recommending Mr. Bridger to that imployment, the other with a draught of instructions for his conduct therein, were severally read, together with the said draught of instructions, and their lordships agreed to proceed in the further consideration of this subject, the first opportunity.

May 30. Present:—Mr. Molesworth, Mr. Cokburne, Mr. Chetwynd, Mr. Cooke, Mr. Docminique.

Newfoundland.

Nova Scotia.

Trade.

Leeward Islands.

Papers from Monsieur D'Iberville.

Letter to Mr. Secretary Stanhope.

The Draught of a Ire. to Mr. Secry. Stanhope, ordered yesterday to be prepared, in answer to his of the 24th instant, upon several papers received from Monsr. D'Iberville, relating to the French at Newfoundld. [fo. 111, 112] Trade with Martinique, Inhabitants of Nova Scotia, and the consul at Tripoli, was agreed and ordered to be transcribed.

Trade.

Netherlands.

Papers considered.

Mr. Drummond.

summoned.

Their Lordships then made a further progress in considering the papers received from my Lord Viscount Townshend's Lre. of the 20th instant [fo. 111], relating to the British commerce in the Austrian Low Countries and ordered that Mr. Drummond [fo. 114] be acquainted that the Board desire to speak with him this evening at six o'clock.

Post Meridiem. Present:—Mr. Molesworth, Mr. Chetwynd, Mr. Cooke, Mr. Docminique.

Newfoundland.

Leeward Islands.

Nova Scotia.

Trade.

Papers from D'Iberville.

Letter to Mr. Secretary Stanhope.

The draught of a letter to Mr. Secry. Stanhope, in answer to his of the 24th instant [fo. 113], upon several papers from Monsr. D'Iberville, as agreed this morning, was signed.

Trade.

Mr. Drummond.

Netherlands.

Mr. Drummond attending [fo. 113] as desired, he was asked what he knew of the plan mentioned in his letter to the Lord Bolingbroke of the 4th of July, 1713, made in June, 1681, for the regulation of the duties in Flanders (which letter had been communicated from the Lord Townshend's office to this Board, with others from Mr. Drummond bound up in a book). Mr. Drummond said that plan only related to butter, upon which was imposed a duty of 12 Stivers per cwt. in conformity to the ordinary butter of Holland, Liege &c.

Being likewise asked, upon the foot of what tariff our trade stood in the Netherlands, during the former war, and after the peace of Ryswick; he said we paid according to the tariff of 21st Decr., 1680, till after the Treaty of Ryswick, and until we loaded the Flanders lace with so heavy duties; after which they charged our goods with such an imposition, as rendered our trade impracticable.

Mr. Drummond was then further asked, how the duty of Pound Gelt, was introduced at Bruges and Ghent, how it stood at present; and which way it might be abolished ? Whereupon he said, that was a local duty paid upon consumption in Bruges and Ghent by the Dutch as well as English, and that he did not think those towns would agree to the abolishing of it.

He added, that the duties of exportation, being at present in the hands of the Dutch by possessing the barrier in the Netherlands, they declared in all conferences to have those duties restored to what they were in 1670, and therefore the duty of importation should be lessened in proportion. And as to the French he said they have a right only to the tariff of 1670.

May 31. Present:—Mr. Molesworth, Mr. Cokburne, Mr. Chetwynd, Mr. Cooke, Mr. Docminique.

Nova Scotia.

Memorial from Mr. Shirrif.

Settlement of publick magazine.

Mr. Shirrif called in.

A memorial from Mr. Shirrif [fo. 132] relating to the establishing a magazin of merchandize and necessaries to be disposed of to the inhabitants of Nova Scotia, for gaining the Indians in those parts by commerce; and in order to the better support of the garrison there was read, and Mr. Shirrif attending was called in, and acquainted that there were several difficulties in attempting to put his proposal in execution at present, but that as occasion should offer, they would promote what he had or should lay before them for his Majesty's service.

Nova Scotia.

Letter from Mr. Secretary Stanhope.

French complaints of our fishing on their coast.

Answer to Mr. Secretary Stanhope.

A letter from Mr. Secry. Stanhope [fo. 117], dated yesterday, referring to the Board two extracts of a letter from Monsr. Pontchartrain to Monsr. D'Iberville, envoy of France, relating to the English fishing at port St. Peters, or port Toulouze on the coast of I'Isle Royale or Cape Breton, and to Colonel Nicholson's obliging the French inhabitants of Accadie or Nova Scotia, immediately to retire thence, was read, together with the said extracts, and directions given for preparing an answer to Mr. Secry. Stanhope thereupon.