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SP~~~~~i i X S...........................''' l,............::::::::::-:::-:::::::::::::-:::::::::-i ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~.......................:I:~ii~~i:.~iI::Il.......................::::::::::n:::::~~ i~~ j1~..................................................................................................................~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~1..............................................................................................::~~::::~~~:::~~j::~~jj:~~: jjj:...........................................................:i:...................................................................................~~i................................................. I~iiiiiij iii ~ij -:iiii iiil...........................................~::.................... ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ — ~ al-i ~...................................................:~w: ~: OS TEISTATE OF NEW-YOR,; ARRANGED UNDER DIRECTION OF THE HON. CHRISTOPHER MORGAN, Secretary of State' BY E. B. O'ALLAGHAN, M. D. VOL. IIo AL B A TN WVEED) PARSONS & Co., PUBTLIC PRINTERS. I 8,49. COMMUNICATION FROM TMIE SECRETARY O0F STATEo SECRETARY'S OFFICE, AlbaJy, Janmary 4th, 1849. To the Speaker of the Assembly. SIR,By section 6, chapter 260, of the laws of 1848, six hundred dollars were appropriated for collecting documents and papers belonging to the State, connected with its history and translating the same. I herewith transmit to the Legislature a document with accompanying maps and drawings, prepared by Doctor E. B. O'Callaghan, illustrating the early history of the State. Very respectfully, Your obedient servant, CHRISTOPHER MORGAN. STATE OF NEW-YORK, zi Assembly, Jan. 5, 1849. On motion of Mr. R. H. PRUIYN, Resolved, That the Secretary of State cause to be printed and bound for the use of the Legislature, twenty times the usual number of copies of his report, with the accompanying documents, maps, &c., relating to the history of this State; also, five hundred copies for his own use, and five hundred copies for the Regents of the University, to be used for literary exchanges. By order, PHILANDER B. PRINDLE, Clerk of Assembly. IN ASSEMBuLY,? April 10, 1849. On motion of Mr. J,. EW. BZEKAN, Resolved, That the Secretary of State cause to be printed and bound for the use of this Legislature, the same number of copies of the second volume of the Documentary History of New-York, as have been ordered of the first volume, and one copy of each volume for such reporters as the speaker shall designate. By order, P. B. PRINDLE, Clerk. FORT LA PRESENTATION. ton. Louis Hasbrouck, to Dr. O' Callaghan. OGDENSBURGH, St. Lawrence Co., 1 A/pril, 1849. DEAR SIR1 Observing by the papers that you have been collecting information relative to the early occupation of this country by the French, I take the liberty of sending you a copy of the inscription on the corner stone of the barracks at this place, (called I believe Fort Presentation,) and which was found at the base of one of the stone buildings. My father was one of the early settlers here (about 1800) and it was given to him as being the " oldest inhabitant." The stone is now in my possession and corroborates your history. t -el &ousfie reseTfi lty ^ydnL;3w,uetL /7T4 Yours respectfully, LOUIS HASBROUCK. C 0 N T E N TE S. PAGEo i. PAPERS REELATING TO LT. GOV. LI ESLER'S AD)MINISTRATION, - 1 II. EARLY RATE LISTS OF LONG ISLAND, - 439 III. MANUSCRIPTS OF SIR WM. JOHNSON, - 543 IV. EARLY STEAM NAVIGATION, -. 1011 V. PAPER.S RELATING TO WVSTETRN NSW-YORK, 1103 PAPERS RELATING TO THB i ~M- -of im1ut. (Iau. itfl. 169t-16491 e. INTRODUCTORY. JACOB LEISLER " of Frankfort," as he is designated in the Dutch Records, came originally to this Country a soldier in the West India Company's service, in the year 1660. He sailed from Amsterdam in the "t Otter," about the 1st. of May of that year. After the colony passed into the hands of the English, he became a Trader, and we find him in 1672 subscribing 50 guilders "c in Goods" towards the repairs of Fort James. Two years afterwards he was appointed one of the Commissioners for the forced loan levied by Colve, when his property was valued at 15,000 gl. on which the assessment was 1,060 gl. In 1678, he made a voyage to Europe when, with several other New-Yorkers, he was taken prisoner by the Turks, to whom he paid a ransom of 2,050 pieces of eight a 5s. each for his freedom. His fellow sufferers' liberty was purchased by a public subscription, taken up throughout the Colony. He was appointed, in 1683, by Gov. Dongan one of the Commissioners of a Court of Admiralty, and in 1689 purchased for the Huguenots the tract called New Rochelle, in Westchester Co. His subsequent history, as well as that of his times, will best be learned from the following pages. JACOB LEISLER married Elsje Lookermans, widow of Corns. P. Vanderveen, by whom he had two children, Jacob and Mary. The latter marriedMilborne, who was executed with Leisler, after whose death she became the wife of Abraham Gouverneur. It is a singular and melancholy fact, and one from which we may learn wisdom, that in the heat of those days, Leisler's connexions were his bitterest enemies. Bayard and Van Cortland, who were of the Council that urged his execution, were his Wife's nephews. Among the orig. MSS. in this Department, are the public accounts of the greater part of his administration-from July 1689 to Jany. 1691. The receipts for that period were ~4,373-17-6T. The disbursements, mostly caused by the war against the French, ~4,894-10-91. We have also the Bills of Costs of th( Crown Lawyers for prosecuting him and his associates for Treason. But wanof space excludes these papers from this Volume. ED. I —--................._~.:::_I::-.:-i:;::,i~-i~~:~.^~.i~ - - —:jI::.:: —.-::I;-::,:::,: —-------------- - - - -:: r~ —-: il ii-:I ~-i _~:~ i —i~~~~~~~~~liji: I -:;,9 _ —~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ —~~~~~~-~~~~~~R~~~~-":: —"~~~~~~~~~~~~-::i::::: ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ —---- -—...... *: -::-:;j-1: —: —;~~~~~~~~~~~~;:i~~~i: ~~~:~~:::~-:c~::-:::II`: — ii:.:-::.~1._::::~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~~~~ —------ ~~~~~::: _liii-~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~"- i —-- -:~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ —--- ---.ILY',~ -il~i::$: —-1:- 1 _1 -:_::::_:: - - _::::____::; —-: — -::::-::::::::::::::::-_:a:~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~~~ ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~.... ----- ~: —~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~r: cj~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~- - --;'i a?tl.Llil~~~~~~~t~f~ ~l_' l~~~ll.~i........ ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~:ti r~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~s ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~~~~~~.....::ji~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~......... lu ~-~: r*-*, ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~............... ~ ~ ~ ~ -5 s~~~:~ -p4~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~P ~~~~~i ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~- ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~.....................~ ~ ~ ~ ~~~~~~~~~i~.............~ ~ ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~r-...............~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~..... - ----------- - 7777....... ------- ~~c~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~.... ~~~~~-i~~~~~~~~~~~~r~-~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Y~~~~~~~~~ w ~ ~ ~ ~................. 11e tctpeUD ~lt.Co~~-d n- t~eO~r~ii3- ~:~T-jL~%~I CL10t17 8`~:;~~s:;t:82~[~ril:c c~y;~~tc4wf j h~~~~~~~_rp~~l~esn ~'"I" V _Z~Vmuc~~c % ~l~~J''~!j';i,~' ~L%7~ -i-~~ ~rYLG I~~I~~(;LI~Z: L B~Tr~?IZ7;l~I: G*;~~12~Zr~ /2~Z 7;wng"ii9i~ COPPIES OF SEVERALL LETTERS SENT TO BOSTONE. [From Vol. in See's Office, endorsed, Papers &c., in Leisler's time.] To the Governor and Committee of Safety at Boston: [June 4, 1689.] Honored Sirs-I make bold to acquaint you of the securing of the fort by the traine bonds of New york. Here enclosed is the declaratione N: 1: In two dayes after the Governor & his Counsell with severall of their creatures had gained so much upon the people that they were afraied & halfe of myne company were they worked most upon had left me, but the second of this instant being my watch in the fort I came with 49 men & entered in the fort, without the word, nor to be questioned whereupon I resolved not to leave till I had brought all the traine bound fully to joine with me, The 3d wee had newes of three ships in sight upon which I tooke occasione to allarume the towne & gott five Captanes besides me & 400 men to signe the enclosed paper N: 2: which discouraged the adverse party, and since they have been indifferent still, The Lievt Governor Nicholls is departed last night without taking leave, It is beleeved he intends to goe with Colloll dongane who has layen in the bay this sixteen dayes. N: 3: is a copie of an evidence whereof we have three of the same tenor, N: 4 is a copie of an address to his maties sent to four merchants with Capt Selock & one with Capt wathland who has faithfullie promised to deliver for to be presented to the King, and depose what they know more, then wee declare, I have made one full Inventory of the fort with guns and ammunitione, and found of 33 great gunes but fifteen fitt to use of 50 barrells pouder was but one that could goe 7 degrees the rest &ct. 3. 4: & 5 some non at all, the most part of the country have invited the rest to appeare as a counsell of safty two men out of one County, the 26th of this instant In the mean tyme the fort is guarded by five companies two watches 1~ company per night, and the Capt whose watch it is is for that tyme Capt of the fort, the Collector in the Custome house 4 ADMINISTRATION OF is a rank papist, I cannot gett the other Captanes to resolve to turne him out but acts still as before The Mayer medles with no civill affaires & discourages constables to keep the peace expecting some seditione for to make the Inhabitants odious, there is non acts others then in quality of a single Capt, sir Edmond Andross & his wicked crew have carried all the Records out of this country to Boston, I hope by the prudent care in the late expeditione at Boston have taken care to preserve it, and I request you to take a speciall care for it, till our Committee of safety may take some prudent care about it, the time will not permitt me to enlarge onely I desire your advice in approbatione in our actione, If wee deserve it and after myne respects I remain &c. JACOB LEISLER. Leisler's Declaration in favour of King William and Queen Mary. Whereas our intention tended only but to the preservation of the protestant religion, and the fort of this City, to the end that we may avoid and prevent the rash judgment of the world, in so just a design, we have thought fitt to let every body know by these public proclamation, that till the safe aryvell of the ships that wee expect every day from his royall Highness the prince of Orange with orders for the government of this country in the behalf of such person as the said royal highness had chosen and honoured with the charge of a governor, that as soon as the bearer of the said orders shall have let us see his power, then and without any delay we shall execute the said orders punctually; declaring that we do intend to submit and obey, not only the said orders, but also the bearer thereof committed for the execution of the same. In witness whereof we have signed these presents, the 3d of June 1689. 1689 June 16 in ffort william. Major JVathan Gold Sir-I have send you an answer of yours dated the 5th of this instant by the messinger that brought it, with a copy of the traines bonds their declaratione & a proclamatione This is onely to en LIEUT. GOV. LEISLER. 5 close the paper N: 1: which is a copie of the adress wee have send to his Maties the King and Queen of England & which;is: signed by five captanes in behalfe of their company and besides all the under officers No: 2: is a copie of one evidence whereof we have three of one tenor here enclosed, is one coppy of;a:letter sent to each County of york Jurisdictione, If you please to:direct to your collony & the collony can resolve to joine'with the -'wholl country it would be thankfully accepted by the country, and it would discourage our adverse party who are dailly hatching & sowing seditione -amongst us that we are obliged to watch 1- Company dailly whereby they hope to weary us out there aryues dailly still people of their seed which makes them prick their eares per advice I have made one full Inventory of the fort and, artillery and-found of 33 great gunes but 15 fitt to us, of 50 barrells noe more but one fitt to sling, a bullet about halfe way -the river, the rest goes for nothing, we have all the gunes in one posture to play, and have fetched 3200 lb pouder out of the toune in the fort and have agreed with the pouder marker to mark the forts pouder good for 40 barrells he is to deliver 28 barrells good, the. papist collector is still in his office, I can gett noe Capt to side with me to turne hin out, our Mayer will medle with noe civill affaires and discourages the constables to keep the pass expecting some disorders for to make the Inhabitants odious I have writt to the Governor:and counsell of safety at Boston & gave them an account of all, I have given to you, I desire an answer & your advice- & further approbatione in our actiones If we deserve it, and after my respects recommend you yours & us in Gods protectione, I remaine To the Governor of Boston, 1689: the 19th June in fort wm The above is a coppy of myne last to which I referre myselfe the tyme will not permitt me to send all the coppies sent before which I hope you have received by a sloope coming from pensilvania bound to Boston Capt flitch who has been here & was bound in your parts promised us & is able to communicate to you of all I This paper will appear in a subsequent Vol. It would have been inserted here, but it belongs to another sett of Doc's. 6 ADMINISTRATION OF which was past before his being here to his departre to which I referre myselfe I Jeing intrusted by the committee to keep & defend the fort for their Maties King William & Queen Mary, have made bold to open the letter for the Lieut ffrancis Nicolsone whereof the enclosed is a true coppy his creatures formerly in offices have done what they could to skaare our people of our actione in secureing the fort and endeavours to make such Impressione in them that all your ships are sold at Barbadoes by wanting of sir Edmond Andross passports and so seek daily for a divisione amongst us I indeavour to prevent what I can, the enclosed is a coppy of a depositione whereof we have one more of Jho: Davids of one tenor I have sent six men to Staten Island in the night & fetched him out of his house and had him here prisoner of warr in the fort for eight days after, which he makeing his excuse of being drunk and in a passione had said the word or such to that purpose without any intent was left out by a counsell of warre, but in that tyme I have send these eighteen men with orders to disarme all the papists, who after they understood of takeing the abovesd man were afraid & soe I suppose hid their armes, so they gott but four great gunes in one millhouse of Coll: dongan hidden under a blanket & covered with baggs of which I have them in the fort, here is one ship arryved of Barbadoes he brings certane news of warr with England & holland agt ffrance, and was published at Barbadoes and that Bostons ships were well received there and your actiones well commended I am daily working in the fort with sixteen carpenters & twenty men which I shall continow till it is truly in good posture of defence, I am digging up the old wall which was filled up by Coll: dongan I intend to stockadde the fort round and hope within three weeks if it please God to have it compleat, I shall be glad to have the honour of an answer of this & the former and having leave of you shall not faill to advise you of our further proceeding In the mean time after myne respects I recommend your Honw: to Almighty God and remain &c. LIEUT. GOV. LEISLER. 7 Albany ye First day of July 1689. The Proclamation for Proclaiming there Majs King William and Queen Mary King and Queen of England France and Irland &cc. being brought hither from N Yorke Imediately upon ye Receit thereof ye Mayr & Recorder caused ye Court of Aldermen & Common Council to assemble who attended accordingly and haveing considered of ye greatest solemnity yt could be used in so short a Time, appointed ye Cittzens to be in arms about 12 oclock which haveing done they went in ordr from ye City Hall up to there Majs. Fort where there Majts. were Proclaimed in solemn manner in English and dutch, ye gunns fyreing from ye fort & volley of small arms ye People with Loude acclamations cryeing God save King Wm. & Queen Mary, afterwards they marched doune to ye City hall where there Majts. were again Proclaimd ye night Concludeing w'11 ye Ringing of ye Bell Bonefyres fyreworks and all oyr Demonstrations of joy. —Albany City Rec. Anno 1689: 10th July in New york. fjr william Jones in AJewhaven: Honored sirs-Sir the bearer hereof being bound to Newhaven I thought it my duty to acquaint yow of what is past since the departure from hence of Major Gold & Capt ffitch which I desire you after the perusall to send it to them as directed, I have since writt to Major Gold & made him acquaint that I had raised thirty four men, and brought them in the fort I was denied of some magistrates to administer to them the oath prescribed, and after I could not find so they are not sworne, yet some of the Committie of Safty are arryved & hope they will meet to day, wee expect with impatience the ten souldiers from your parts, he that was sent was not accepted by the advice of the bearer, the reasone I referre to his verball report, I was ordered to repaire the fort out of his Maties revenue since the first of June, but there is nothing nor like to be, they offer me the peoples entries who intends to dispute the legallity thereof I have a carpenter to work, but his work little appeares in a fort so out of repaire as this is, our adversaries & opposers in our present work keept us in a continuall feare, as you 8 ADMINISTRATION OF will find by the enclosed coppies & what follows. I am informed that they haveing knowledge that fifty men was ordered by the committee to-keep the fort for his Matie and that I should beat the drum for them, they had amongst themselves listed 50 men who intended upon the beat of the drum to offer themselves voluntiers to serve his Matie for nothing, If refused by me to pike a quarrell and make some scandalous pretence upon me, If accepted to goe fairly in the fort with me & to turne me & the other appoynted officers out, butt I listed myne souldiers by still drum & they were frustrated, then the magistrats who also have been disapprovers of our actiones of securing the fort, send to me three of their company and acquainted me they intended to ring the bell and meet together to administer justice, In quality as Major Aldermen & common couneill by vertue of the King James his Commission, saying they could doe good justice for King William & Queen Mary, by vertue of the sd Kings Commission, how farre wee ought to give credit to such sham protestationes I referre to your judgment being persones who have alwayes opposed their Maties interest & desired me to defend them from all enjuries they were threatened I answered them that I had the charge from the country to defend the fort for their Maties, and so I intended not to hinder them, they should also not expect any help from me. and I doubt not if they meet as justices, noe boddy should oppose them, they did not meet, I sent also for them to come to me, and.1 desired a positive answer of their acceptance or deniall to administer the oath to the listed souldiers which they refused to doe in the fort, but if I would draw them out they would, which I refused, soe they offerred if I would send them single to the citty:hall they would administer the oath to them which I proposed to the souldiers who were willing to take the oath in their garrisone. and besides they were opposers of our actiones, I sent to Mr Cortland alse editor for the kings revenue from the first of June, to repaire the kings fort, he answered he had nothing but the late collector had it, he was at Coll: donganes, at his arryvall said he had nothing but the entries, I examined a boatman comeing from Jersey having heard some rumour of some enterprise upon the citty and fort & received the within Informatione N: 1: whereupon I LIEUT. GOV. LEISLER. 9 issued out the enclosed warrant N: 2: and gott Thomas walton who confesses being in drink and in passione he sd something of it but remembers not all & knowes of noe designe, he was risen out of the bed, in the morning & was not dressed, I have myne ensigne out to disarme the papists, the enclosed is a warrant issued forth of Mr Cortland as quality of Mayer directed to the high sherriff newly created by them because we never knew him but constable, I heard of the warrand one of our sergeants made the sd pretended sherriff drunk & so gott the prinll warrant from him of which this is the copie, when I mounted the souldiers newly listed I sent three drums through the citty to publish it and desired the Inhabitants would be pleased to come to my doore to take advice of them & to object agt any they had the least objectione of why they should not be trusted with the fort, there is seaventeen borne in New york, eight in old England, two french knowen protestants two Suisse four hollanders & I a germane all knowen protestants,-our adversaries have & are daily busie to sow the seed of divisione & have made a great impressione amongst the burgers before I could make them sensible how affaires went, now they begine againe to be very well satisfied, they were so fair that the company came to 40 men 100, but the people being now wholly sensible of the malice of'the adversaries are now all Joint here is one merchant borne in old England Joint with us & chosen by one company to represent them, they have stopt his horse & threatened his persone that our burgers will not trust him to their mercy but watches his house with one centry, which is sd high treason by them, they have scattered them to all parts to incense the people with abominable lees making them beleeve the people are abused by the dutch that I have the fort for the french have listed 25 french that I & my officers are continually drunk & in drunken fitts committs a great dale of insolency, I desire you to be charitable, and I have desired some of our committies that dwells here & acquainted of what I wrote to signe it, that you may not doubt of what is herein expressed which is but a part of what passes I hope before two dayes [come] to one end to have some papists disarmed & also those Idolls destroyed which we heare are dailly still worshipped, after myne kynd respects I recommend you & us to the protectione of Almighty God & remaine &c. 10 ADMINISTRATION OF x A DECLARATION OF THE INHABITANTS SOUDJERS BELONGING UNDER THE SEVERALL COMPANIES OF THE TRAIN BAND OF NEW YORKE. WE declare that notwithstanding our sevarall pressures and griviences thes many years under a wicked arbitrarie Power execissed by our Late popish governr Coll Dongan & severall of his wicked Creaturs and Pensionaris specialy now under Lieutenant Governr Nicolson we were Resolved to Expect with great patience our Redemption from England Expecting to haue parte of that Blessed and glorious Deliverance Procured under God by his Royall heighness Wm HENRY Prince of Orange but when we Challenged our Libertie, propertie and ye Laws we were Cajoled and Terrified out of our Reason but at Last some being Threatned by ye said Lieutenant Governr Nicolson and a Pistoll Presented against the Corporall and sayd to ye Lieutenant Cuyler that he would sett ye Citty one fyer for doeing our Loyall duty we haue thought fitt for our Conservation and fear to be Lyable to answer for ye Lyfe of every Protestant that might haue perished and every house burnt or distroyed If we had Remained Longer In Security and alsoe seing daly aryve from severall parts Officers and Souldjers who ware Intertained by ye said Lieutenant governor Nicolson In ye ffort besides his severall Souldjers of which few there were a number of papists Contrary to the Law of England by which new Commers some of ye burgers being threatned of some deseigne against them In few days we thought delay Dangerous so we haue animosly Resolved to Live no Longer in such a Danger but to secure the ffort Better which we haue under God with success without Resistance and Bloodshed Effected and we declare to be Entirely and Openly Opposed to papists and their Religion and therefore Expecting Orders from England we shall keep and guard surely and faithfully the said ffort In ye Behalf of ye Power that now governeth In England to surrender to ye Person of ye Protestant Religion that shall be nominated or sent by ye Power abouesaid, these are our most sincere Intentions that we are glad to NoTE.-Papers thus (*) marked, are Copies of MSS. politely furnished by the -N. Y. Historical Society, for this Volume. LIEUT. GOV. LEISLER. 11 manifest as well to ye Power (abouesaid) that God hes Plaised to submit us to, as to other persons to avoid there Reproches that they could otherwise unjustly Lay upon ye abovesaid Inhabitants NEW YORKE the Last day off May 1689. *COMMISSION FROM THE COMMITTEE OF SAFETY APPOINTING JACOB LEISLER TO BE CAPTAIN OF THE FORT. There being a Present necessity that a Capt. of ye fort at New Yorke should be appointed to be constantly there attending and to Command & order ye Soldiers appointed by this Committee of Safety to Serve ye fort in behalfe of their Majesties till orders Shall come and to order all matters of ye fortifications of said fort necessary at present this Committee therefore doe think fitt that Captn Jacob Leisler shall be Captain of said fort as abovesaid Till orders shall come from their Majesties, & that the said Captu Jacob Leisler, shall have all aid and assistance, if need be & demanded by him from City and Country to suppress any folen Efimey & prevent all disorders which Evidently may appear dated this 8th of June 1689, Signed Sealed RICHARD DANTON [L. s.] SAI EDSALL [L..] THEUNIS ROELOFSE [L. S.] P DELA NOY [L. S.] JEAN DE MAREST [L. S.] MATHIAS HARVEY [L. S.J DANIEL DE KLERCKE [L. S.] THOMS WILLIAMS [L. S.] JOHANNES VERMILLYE) [L. S.] Wm LAURENCE [L. S.] HENDRICK JACOBSEN a corporall in the company of Capt. Abraham De Peyster aged about 27 yeares declars that on the thirtieth day of may Last past he the said deponent having order from Lieut. hendrick Coyler who Commanded the guard of the trained Bands In the fort of New-York to place a sentinell at the sally port in the said fort and that accordingly he the said deponent took with him two musquetiers In order to place the said sentinell, But a sentinell Belonging to the Kings Souldiers In pay in the said fort Challenging him he called his Corporall who declared to this deponent that he had no Order from the 12 ADMINISTRATION OF Lieutenant governour Capt. nicolson (he being then not in ye said fort) to suffer any of the trained Bands to stand Sentinell there, But that If It were needfull he could set on of ther own souldjers upon which he the said deponent took back with him the said two musquetiers and acquainted the said Lieutenant Coyler therewith, who thereupon Resolved to stay till the said Lieutenant governour Returned Into the fort, after which the said Lieutenant governour Returning Into ye said fort and this being Related to him as the said deponent supposed he the said Lieutenant Governour sent for the said Lieutenant Coyler h went to him and Desired the Deponent to go along with him which he the said deponent did and being Come up into the Chamber In the said fort wher the said Lieutenant governour was and he the Lieutenant governour seeing this deponent In the Room In a passion Rose up saying to the said deponent yow Rascall what doe yow here get yow gon or I will Pistoll yow or words to that effect, and Immediately he took down a Pistoll that hung by the wall In the said Chamber and further threatening him the said deponent drove him out of his Chamber, and further saith not. Was signed HENDRICK JACOBSE. Sworn before me this 10th day of t June 1689 In N. York. 5 Samuell Mullforde, Justice of ye Peace. ALBERT BOSCH Sergint under the Company of Captn Abraham de Peyster aged about 44 years deposeth that on the thirtieth day of May Last the said deponent being upon the guard In the fort of new Yorke under the Command of Lieutenant hendrick Coyler and he the said Deponent Relating to the said Lieutenant Coyler that It were Convenient to place a Sentinell at the Sally port in ye sd fort It was thereupon Ordered that a Sentinell should be there placed But the said Sentinell Returning again without standing there he again discoursed with ye said Lieutenant Coyler to speak to ye Lieutenant governor Nicolson about It and while they were discoursing Came a ~Messenger from the said Lieutenant Governour Nicolson to desire Lieutenant Coyler to Come to him which he Immediately did LIEUT. GOV. LEISLER. 13 attended by hendrickJacobscn his Corperall Leaving the Charge of ye guard to ye said Deponent and that while they were alone he ye said deponent heard high words upon which he Immediately drew his men Out of ye Court of Guard before ye door which being done he the said deponent went himself under the Window where ye said Lieutenant Governour and the said Lieutenant Coyler and Corperall were to Listen what they said. upon which he heard the Lieutenant Governour Call some on Rascall and bid him be gan upon which he Immediately saw the said Corperall hendrick Jacobsn came downe who Related to him the said Deponent that: the said Lieutenant Governour did present a Pistoll to ye Brest of hendrick Jacobsen the said Corperall and that he the said deponent harkning further at ye window under the Chamber aforesd did hear ye Lieutenant Governour say If they should any more so trouble him he would set ye town a fire and further saith not was Seigned A. BosCH. Sworne before me this 10th day? of June 1689 in N York 5 Samuel Mulforde Justice of ye peace. * GENTLEMEN-We humbly beg your pardon for our intruding. thus far on you, and having the honour to account you our particular friends, we have with the more boldnesse presumed to trouble you, humbly requesting you to do us this Charitable favour to deliver this enclosed addres of ye Militia and other inhabitants of our City of New York to his Majisty King William, in doeing which you will highly oblidge us, and if a seasonable word might be put in on our behalfe as your selves shall best think fit. Inclosed is also Coppies of several papers and. affidavits, which you,may please to peruse, and make use of as you shal best see convenient. We will not doubt by your assistance of a favourable reception, the bearer hereof Capt. John. Sellock who has bin an eye witness in this affair can give you a particular acct. of all circumstances and has promised to assist in all he can. If this affair require any disbursement as you shall se convenient it shall be gratefully repaid by us. Thus not doubting 14 ADMINISTRATION OF to prevail so far on yr good natures we take leave to Subscribe our selves In New York 11 June 1687 Your humble servants To our friends JACOB LEISLER, Mr. Gerard Van heythuysen A. D. PEYSTER Mr. Henry Limrey CHARLES LODWICK Mr. Nicolas Cullen Junr. J BRUYN Mr. Valentine Croeger. N. W. STUYVESANT. LEISLER TO MAJOR GOLD A. 1689 the 2 [12?] June in N. Yorke MAJOR NATHAN GOLD.-Sir yours of the 5 of Instand is come safe to my hand wherein I understand you autoryse our action in securing the fort which we gat in our possession the last of May, God be tankt without Bloodshed, but ye Governr and Councell with all there createaures have use all means in maginable to discourage all the well maendet habitants, so that in 2 days, half of the people were afraid and specialy my Compani, ware the work with all the art inmaginable for to divert them, but the 2 June at night I entred in ye fort to ye gard with aboute 50 men, about 30 men absented themselfs for faer, they lett me enter without any condition for hoes account. In the morning of the 3d I had news of 3 ships comming within the Sand point, whereupon I alarmed the towne and gatt the train band in the fort and acquainted them upon watt account I garded the fort and tender them the inclosed writing which was seigned by five Capts and about 400 mens ho seems all to be animosly agried to the preservation of the Protestant religion and the fort for the present Protestant power that now Raigns in England, which does not yett putt the laest Governr & his 3 counsels out of hoop to remaine Raining still I ame informed the intend to send one a purpose for England to act against use:-we send to his Majiste one addrese with ye inclosed seigned by the severall Capts & inhabitants I am now ferry bussy and cane not inlarge, only I advise that by ye first, commites ma be chosen and one trusted man send to procure in England some privilleges. I wish we ma haue parte in your LIEUT. GOV. LEISLER. 15 Charter, being as I understand in the latitude. If possible I could be informed of the said Charter and previledges it would be grate satisfaction. I tank your in behalf of all that sied yours for all your broderly lofe and kaindness, and fully accept of itt and after Respekts I recommend you and us all in the protection of the Almighty God and remaine your most humble servant. Superscribed JACOB LEISLER. To Maior Nathan Gold in Fairfeld *SEC'Y ALLYN TO LEISLER &c Hartford, June 13, 1689. Hond. Gentn.-In a declaration of your's dated 31 of May last past, we have heard that upon weighty considerations you have attacked the fort in N. Yorke and taken possession thereof, to keep it in your hands for the defence of your City and the protestant religion and people in those partes and for his Maties service; we have also seen a writing you have published wherein you declare, that upon the arrivall of any orders from His Highness the Prince of Orang, now King of England &c You will deliuer up the sayd Forte to his order with all the artillery, armes and ammunition thereto belonging &c. Gentn. considering what you have don, we doe aduise that you keep the forte tenable and well manned for the defence of the protestant religion and those ends above mentioned, and that you suffer no Roman Catholicke to enter the same, armed or without armes, and that no Romish Catholick be suffered to keep armes wt'lin that government or Citty, and that those who shall be betrusted with the government or command of your forte be trusty persons whom you may confide in. And that we may know your prsent state and what may be necessary for us to contribute towards your welfare, we have appointed the Honrd Major Nathan Gold and Capt. James Fitch Esqrs to give you a vissit, and to give their best advice to you in any thing wherein they may be helpfull to you, and we desire that you will be pleased to give them full credens in what they shall have reason to discourse with you about and that you give them a free acct of yor affayres. 16 ADMINISTRATION OF Gentn we shall not enlarge, but with hearty desyres of your welfare & prservation of Or best Respects we bid farell and are your assured friends, The Generall Court of Connecticut, pr their order, Signed JOHN ALLYN, Sec'y These for the Hond Capt. Jacob Leishler & the rest of the Captns in New Yorke. This. *THE DELEGATES FROM CONNECTICUT TO CAPT LEISLER. Capt Leisler & ye rest of ye Capts that have been active with you in taking of, and securing ye Fort in this Citty of N. York for his Maties service & for ye preservation & security of these parts of his Maties Territories. Whereas you were pleased to send unto our Colony of Connecticutt, for advice and assistance as need might be, which letter was presented unto our Gen1 Assembly of Govr & Company in Hartford, ye 13th of this present time which assembly were extremely ready to consider of what might be best for his Maties service & yor encouragement in securing these American partes from French and other foreign or intestine enemies: —Wee were therefore appointed & ordered by ye aforesd Gen'1 Assembly, with speed to come to this citty, to give our advice and promise you such assistance as our abilyty & yor necessetyes and condition may call for. And Whereas we are ordered in our instructions, to receive a full acct of yor motions of late in this Citty & ye grounds and reasons of yor takeing and securing ye Fort, and when we came here we found to our amazement ye trueth of what we had heard (viz) ye Fort much out of repair, more of ye great gunns not fit for service, very few platforms for gunns to play on, and by ye account shewed us; taken by skilfull honest men, of ye Powder, that of fifty barrells, but one good, & a considerable part not fitt for any service, and ye rest would not slinge a bullet halfe over the river, & also by informacon it appearing to us that Capt Nicholson, late Lieut Govr having lift ye Fort who hasted away privately to Singeronis, about seven Leagues from Yorke to Coll. Dungan & other parts & some LEUTr. G-OV. LEISLE,. 17 popishly affected, where there seems to be some considerable gathering of such: and also there being some ill minded, disaffected, and disloyale persons in the Citty & places adjacent; having first don you that justice, noble & Loyall Capt Leisler, whose Loyaltie, courage, prudence, paines, & charge, hath been great; and you ye other nobl corragious & Loyall Capts, Lieut-,, Ensigns, Sergt - and good souldgers in the train bands, that hath been active in this affaire, as also Loyall Mr. Samuell Edsall & other good worthy and Loyall gentlemen, that have taken such paines and beene at such charge, we say we must doe you that justice as to owne and acknowledge yor good service to God and unto our gracious Soverain Lord King William, and service done for yo' Country in ye preservation of ye protestant religion. And in ye next place we have our advice for yor consideracon, first, that you yet continue therein of thorough and effectnall meanes to secure and maintain this Fort and other fortifications for his Maties service, untill you receive his Maties command 21y-That more be expended in repairing ye fort; fitting ye gunns, so as they may be serviceable 31y-That no papist be suffered to come into ye fort; let not ye warning given that day his Maties was proclaimed, be soon forgotten by you, wherein ye terretts in ye fort was fyred in three places, under which roufe lay yor ammunition, soe hellishly wicked and cruell, a papisticall design to have destroyed you & us and ye fort & towne, it made our flesh to tremble. High praise unto Almighty God that you & we, fort & City, were preserved. 4ly-Wee advise that no knowen papists be suffered Armes in his house. 51y-That if it is, or shall be knowen yt any person hath embezzled ye Armes & ammunition or other things belong to this ffort, we advise you to seeze & secure such person or persons, to answer for ye same, when seasonably called to an acct. 61y-If by foreigne or entestine enemies & your hazardous & necessitious condition calls for it, wee from our Colony shall be ready to aford you helpe & assistance according to our hability & yo necessity, in defence of ye protestant religion and in securing the fort for his Maties service-your friends pray God to en.2 i8s ADMINISTRATION OF courage yor hearts and strengthen yor hands and patiently waite for ye disposer orders and commands of yors & our most gracious, never equalled, commended & admired King Willyam, ye very best this lower world knowes, whome God preserve long to Reign. Soe prays Signed NATHAN GOLD Senr JAMFS FITCH In ye Fort of N Yorke June 26, Anno 1689. [Translation.] Albany, 30 July 1689. ARNOUT CORNELISE.-Capt Bleeker came just now from Skinnectady and brings us word that an Indian and a Squaw arrived there from the Mohawk army, and report that the Mohawks have accepted the presents of the Onnagonques' which appears incredible, and that their proposition was to wage war against the Christians as they understood the Christians intended to exterminate all the Indians; and that it became therefore necessary for all the Indians to unite against the Christians-and they now consult with the Mohawks as they knew better than they how to manage the matter. The said Indian stated that some of the Skackhook Indians had gone home from the army, so that it appears they abandon their design towards Canada. Jannetie the Indian who left in the morning for the army, met this Indian on the Road and requested us to send up an Express forthwith to see and dissuade the Mohawks from accepting any presents, but deliver up here according to their Bond & promise the said 4 messengers who shall suffer no harm, but by that means accomplish a desirable peace; and he, Jannetie, doubted not if Christians came there to the army or the Indians met them elsewhere, but they would be persuaded to deliver up the four messengers or if they were gone, that they would send out and bring them back. It is, therefore, our Request that you proceed forthwith to the army or where you hear said 4 Indian Ambassadors to our Indians:1 Called by the English, Penobscots, or Abenaquis. LIEUT. G. GOL. LER. 19 are, and do your endeavors to persuade the Mohawks to deliver them, having promised to act herein as we shall deem prudent; and if their Engagements with said Indians be not too far advanced, we doubt not of the good success of the matter> which we commend to God's and your good care. Write to us by the Bearer hereof how you find all matters, whom you take with you to the Armyi and send them all hither in the quickest by Gert Luykassen that we may regulate ourselves accordingly. This is all for the present, meanwhile remain Your affectionate friends was sigied, L V SCHAICK.:D. Meyer Mr Wessels & Mr Wendel and some other gentl&men expect the arrival of said 4 Ambassadors, being assured by Jannetie that they were to be in the morning at Skinnectady. STATEMiENT MADE BY THE MOHAWK AMBASSADORS OF WHAT T'ti ONNAGOINQUES PROPOSED TO THEM. THE 2D AUG. 1689. [Translation.] Tahousaquathon, and Sanonquierese, and Anogranorum, and Owaidahare with 3 other Tionondoges, have informed us that the 4 Ouwenagonges proposed to them the following: 1. Brothers of the 3 Castles-We are now here together to converse with each other; we are now no better than boys in knowledge and experience. Heretefore we had knowledge, but the English surpass us in knowledge for they have treacherously slain our Sachems who possessed Wisdom. 2. Brothers of the 3 Castles-I stand here as one knowing nothing. I come to inform you that ye are now dead men; ye and your whole household: the 5 Nations, and all true Indian Men-for the Christians have banded together to subdue us all at once. There is no longer any Christian brotherhood; for they have all united against us, and ye must not think to find on the morrow any Christian friends. 20 ADMINISTRATION OF 3. Brothers-We now take up the hatchet against the English; they are themselves the cause of this, for it is no small matter that they should send for our Sachems treacherously to slay them. This is not a thing to be forgotten. 4. Brothers-We now acquaint you that our entire nation shall come to you; but we will first send back an embassy that we also shall be on the road comiing. Grief at present prevents us speaking to you. When we return home, then shall we speak also to our people and communicate with other additional tribes-and moreover what we first shall derive from our plantation. We shall then come to you in the harvest. 5. Brothers-I am now dead. But we shall strike together with the sword without pausing, for I have even told you that all the Christians combine together to ruin the just people; therefore I say we shall now strike the Christians each on the flank. 6. They also informed us that the Governor of Canada encourages them to wage war against the English and provided them with ammunition; and that they will carry their women to Canada; that he will provide them with food and clothing; and that the Praying Ouwerages have gone all from Canada unto Ouwerage. LEISLER TO GOV. TREAT. Anno 1689: 7th August in New York in the fort. HONORED SIR GOVERNOR TREAT-I have writt to you twyce and understand my letters came to hand to which I referre myselfe since I have used all the diligence imaginable to fortifye & repaire the fort the wall is fully compleated, there is seven foot very good water & is 36 feet deep, all the platformes renewed, all the gunes substantially mounted, the pouder house will be ready to day, the pouder is made good and elevates the engine from 13 to 26 degrees, we have now in the fort of the kings pouder tounes pouder 6000: lb & 800: lb of the best spoiled pouder for salutations & about 100 armes well fixed, we had inventoried LIEUT. GOV. LEISLER. 21 400: which seemed good in the eye, but when examined amongst twelve hardly one fixt, there was a battery under the fort, which being quyte demolished and ruined In place of which I am making an halfe moon of 100 foot over grass which defends the landing of both rivers & also the comeing in, and it is defended easily by the fort we are getting stockadoes & soods to stockad & breastwork the fort according to your advice for which I am obliged & hope within fourteen days if it please God to compleat all7 since myn last I have made Coll: donganes man James Larkines prisoner of warre for having forged news to discourage the folks, It was that the late King James was in Ireland & the protestants of that kingdome & of Scotland joined to him in his army & that he was in company when Russell (who is gone) drank the late King James health, but is left out by a councill of warre & paroll for his good behaviour was past by Capt Broun, the company of Capt Cuiler being at work & when at the spurre wanting stones to finish it, resolved to pull doun the pigeon house of Coll: dongane which was made of the stone soe missing & went armed with collours & drum without Capt or Lieut: & begane to breake but being offered immediately 50 load of stone at the work they left of & had done very little damage they intended at the same tyme to breake some walls and stairs at Grahames house made of the same stonesbut 36 load was given for that, wee have noe news but from Boston therefore mentione non) the enclosed is a petition of two of your souldiers with which I could not prevaill to stay, so I have given them leave as you will see by the answer upon the petition I intend to list two others upon your Counties account we are compleat 53 men in the fort, & the other five of your souldiers are resolved to stand till released from England they have promised me to write to you, & I referre me further what passes to the bearers, & expecting the honor of an answer & after myne respects I remaine &c. THE SAME TO THE SAME. Anno 1689: the 9th August in fort William HONORED SIR-The 7th of this instant was my last to you by ao souldiers, who petitioned to goe to their parents, who were f22 ADMINISWRLATION OF sike, I have received the letter from Governor Broadstreet which you have been pleased to send me by the bearer, being advised of sir Edmond Andross escape & their diligence about the pursuance of them we have had newes of his stope at Rhoad Island about tuo days agoe, It is about eight dayes date, we have perceived some expectation by the grandees which no doubt had intelligence & hope to see him here, they were much in discouraging the people to work, spreading abroad it was onely my notione & ambition to make such doing & hasting for fortification that I was obliged to gett the children who gathered in one day above 100 load stones, The mayor & severall others are departed from hence, It is thought now to meet sir Edmund we are upon our guards, & hope that they are frustrat of their expectatione, expecting the honor of an answer of my former and this, I shall in the mean tyme advise you of all what passes by all opportunities & after my respects to you and major Gold I recommend you & us in the protection of the Almighty & remaine your &c. TO THE GOVERNOR AT BOSTON 1689 13 August The above is a coppy of myne last by John Moll to which I referre myselfe since I have received news from Albany as by the coppy of the enclosed your Honr may see, whereupon we have answered & according to our capacity have complied with their desire as by the enclosed copie of my letter to them, and since have verball newes that the people that came from the Indianes report that there is killed & taken by our Indianes of the french & their Indianes above 500 & the inforinatione of the three men killed was false, the place called Schorachtoge belongs to the Magistrates there, who doe still Justice for their Maties King william & Queen Mary by the oath they have suorne to the late King James it is the uttermost frontiers & there are six or seven families all or most rank french papists that have their relationes at Canada & I suppose settled there for some bad designe & are lesser to be trusted there in this conjuncture of tyme then ever LIEUT. GOY. LEISLER, 23 before the bad creatures amongst us gives me great occupatione, I have released the eight confined upon their requiest after I had administered to them the oath of fidelity to their maties King william & Queen Mary in this City, & about us we are now God be thanked very quiet, and every one since the sd confinement conforme themselves in watching & fortifieing to the plurality, I have formerly urged to inform your Honr that Coll: dongan in his time did erect a Jesuite College upon cullour to learne latine to the Judges west - M-r Graham Judge palmer & John Tuder did contribute their sones for some time, but no boddy imitating them the collidge vanished k recommend your Honr againe to spare us for their maties use some great gunes & watt pouder your Honr can spare & an answer about our record & your Honr good advice I shall think myselfe much obliged & after respects remaine &c If your Honr cannot spare me so much pouder then one tunn of salt peter *COMMISSION TO Capt. LEISLER to bet IOMMAL"NNDER IN 11CIEFFORASMUCH the Committee of Safety do apprehienid the difficulty & inconveniency by reason of theii- rvlmote abitmants and y- insuing season of ye year to commence & abide in ye City of tNew York to advise recommend order, & appoint ye present afifirs in hand for the Interest of their Most Exelent Majesties King Wi-l liam & Queen Mary & due preservation of ye inhabitants in ye province of New York & some others near adjacent towns, it is thought convenient and Concluded by ye Committee for ye most Safety of ye province by reason of Sundry intervals & accidental motions which may arise & for the orderly way to direct all necessary matters touching ye ruling & ordering of ye inhabitants in the Province, it being uncertain whether ye orders shall Come from their Majesties, that Captain Jacob Leisler is hereby appointed to Exercise & use the Power & Authority of a Commander in Chief of the said ProvinDce to administer such Oaths to the people, to issue out such Warrants, and order such Matters as shall be necessary & requisite to be done for the preservation and protection of the peace, of the inhabitants taking all ways, seasonable 24 NADMINISTRATION OF advice with Militia and Civil Authority as Occasion shall require Dated ye 16th day Augt 1689Copy was Signed Sealed as followeth, WILLIAM LAURENCE I. S.] SAM' EDSALL L. s. D1 DE KI ERCKKE [L. S.J JEAN DEMAREST [L. S JOHANNES VERMILLYE [L. S.j P. DE LA NOY IL. S.] RICHARD DANTON [L. S.j MATHIAS HARVEY [L. S.1 THEUNIS ROELOFSE [L. S.] THS WILLIAMS [L. S.] LEISLER TO THE GOVERNOR OF BOSTON. A: 1689: 19th August in New- York HONORED SIR-I have received yours of the 4: instant & understand the contents I arn much obliged for your good advice and have immediately dispatched one boot to Albany with the copy of your letter & the news the Mohacks and Sinekoes continue the warre with the Fren ch, they have lately tortured a french priest & had 3 prisoners besides, wee have newes of St Christopher that all the habitations were burned & all the people in the fort beseiged by land with 2 or 3000 men & twenty two vessels by water, wee had an allarum the sixteenth of this instant, being occasioned by this gentleman the bearer who came after watch sett ariued in the toune five in number without pass from your honor, nor to be acquainted here, made them to be suspected, sir Edmond Andross company they were freed to the dissatisfaction of the people who are jealous still that sir Edmond is amongst us, the sd allarum occasioned the confinement of eight ill affected peopled in our section, which committment occasioned great satisfactione by the people who offer themselves that no such was confined, tho always opposed in our action, they would work continually with 500 men till the fortificationes were fully compleated & upwards of 30 bots to fetch soods & palisadoes, the fort artillery & ammunition, is now in one posture of defence, one water port now made to the westward of the fort & hope in occasion please God to defend it with my life & fortune for their Maties King william and Queen Mary, I desire to know if our records are secured. & offer your honor myn humble service &c. LIEUT GOV. LEISLER. 25 LEISLER TO GOV. TREAT. 1689 25th August HONORED SIR-I received yours by the bearer & understand they continow in answer about the letter of recommendation the committies & I desired Major Gold & Capt ifith that we may have a letter of recommendation to your agent in England to serve this province in occasione Inclosed is an act of the Comittie about your souldiers to which I referre you, I have writt by Mr. Kenrick denick to Mr. James Bisshop & enclosed a coppy of a letter from the assembly to Maryland & an other papisticall letter opened by me by which you may discover their way of cheats & desired him to communicate it to your Honr to which I refeere you since is arrived here one man from Maryland who affirms that at the head of patapsque there is murdered ten dayes ago wholl families where there is escaped but one woman & it is found out by there habits that it was Canada Indians, & that at the head of Chaplane river the Indians cut off all their come & opens the fences & begave themselves in one swamp where they were persued & examined & said they were assured by some ill affected persons in Maryland that the Inglish intended to utterly destroy them at the change of the moon. This is all which wee know needful to advise your Honr the ten souldiers have had above their provisione which I make Connecticott collony debitor for. THE SAME TO THE SAME. A. 1689 28 August in the fort of New York. for Robert Treat Governor of Connecticott HONORED SIR-I have written you severall letters and advised you of all that has past in these parts I expected an answer before now specially about the four souldiers that had importuned me to goe home by which I have giuen you the reasone all myne former I am satisfied is come to your hands but of the last by three saillers bound for Boston to the Governor open to lett you have the perusall they being so hasty could not have tyme to write to you I am Jealous you have not seen This is then to acquaint you that the sixteenth of this instant at night after watch sett came over 26 ADMINISTRATION OF the ferry five aimed strangers & went to Mr. William Merit after whom the door and windows were closed immediately a man a horseback dispatcht out the gate was open I was called being at home at supper, I went for the fort & overheld the man on horseback & called to stope him whereupon he runne which made us all suspect Sir Edmond to be in toun or neare I allarumed the toun & sent out severall parties to search Merits house Ned Buckmasters house & to bring all strangers before me, they brought those five men whom I examined they having no pass pretended they had lost him they knew but papists in this toune were knowen of noe body, had the post peri to their guide he about 31 months ago forged newes here from Boston that Boston people repented what they had done & were at their wits ends & could send out no vessell, having no boddy to cleare them, I asked him by whose orders he told such lies, he answered that Capt. Nicolson bid him to divulge such at long Island, I searched him for letters & secured him in the corp: de gard & demanded the letters of the other four, he delivered them & sd they had no more but what was open I made them surrender their swords & sent out twelve men to search Merits houses for portmantles who brought me two which were open In which I found about 40 more directed most part to the opposers of our actions, whereupon I sent for the Comittie to read them & in the mean tyme I redoubled the allarum & sent for the two Merchants and Buckmaster about 500 men being couragiously in armes & they with severall were unarmed in their houses I sent for provisions to the baker by the fort a good friend of sir Edmond would not open the doore, I ordered to breake it, & being in watch they found & keept an exact account & so I should have been forced to continow till I was provided, if a souldier did not advise me that Capt Monveill headed my company which I sent, he arryving told me he onely enquyred at the ensign the reason of the allarume, I demanded if he would lett me have the provisions he had in the fort immediately he told me yea 12000 lbs bread six barrells pork 4 barrells pouder & so I released him & pressed noe furder for provisions but ordered to Churcher for strangers & sir Edmond in the night they brought phillip ffrance Robert LIEUT. GOV. LLiISLEa. Z7 Allison Dirk Vanderburg Brand Sheuler In the morning the five companies compleat coming for the fort received orders, then came the Baker & Tuder over whom the people were in a rage to satisfie them I was obliged to secure them & dismissed the company, and upon informatione by Mr Lawrence from his grand child from Boston, the quality of the said strangers being but slender ground, with the charity I had I released them, I sent also for the officers of the militia to release the others but they came not that day. Sabbath day following they remained, Monday night I intended for them because the two companies being to work that day I went home & absented me for two or three hours for to write to their Maties, In the mean tyme the sd prisoners sent for nine fiddles [The remainder of this letter is lost.] *AFFIDAVITS AGAINST NICHOLMON. The deposition of Nicholas Brown Aged Twenty three Years, the said Deponent declares that he being in the Service of ye late King Anno One thousand six hundred Eighty Six some time in July & August, did see Frances Nicholson ye late lieut Gov.ernor of ye fort at New York Several times in ye Masse, but especially two times in ye Kings tent at Hunsloheath in old ingland, being there to Exercise his devotions, & did Ye the same upon his Knees before the Alter in the papist Chappel, where the Mass was said, that himself, this deponent is ready to Confirm and declare upon Oath in testimony of the truth & have hereunto Set my hand, In New York this 12th day of Septemar Anno 1689. Signed NICHOLAs BRowN. 1689 the 13th 7ber in New York Then appeared before me Nich1s Brown & Sworn before me the aforesaid to be the truth. Signed G. BEIKrMAN Justice 28 ADMINISTRATION OF DEPOSITION OF ANDRIES & JAN VIEYER. There was great Joy when Sir Edmond Andros came here from Boston & not only here at new York but through the whole Country, because we were delivered from a papist's Govoner Thomas Dongan & had now as we thought another Deputy Govenor in the fort (Nicholson) who would defend and Establish the true Religion, but we found to the contrary. there was a cry that all Images erected by Colo Thomas Dongan in the fort should be broken down & taken away, but when we were working in the fort with others: it was commanded after the departure of Sr Edmond Andros by Said Nicholson, to help the priest John Smith to remove, for which we were very glad, but was soon done, because said removal was not far off but in a better room in the fort, & ordered to make all things for Said Priest, according to his will, & perfectly & to erect all things, as he ordered from that time, we were much troubled not knowing what to say or think & what the Signification was of the premises, but we left it to god & providence, who in his time, shall make things Appear the Deponent Johannas heard it from said Nicholson & told the Same to his brother Andries and that both did do the work as was ordered with Peter King,This 26th 7ber 1689 the deponent Andries & John Myer appeared before me & declared the truth of the above written Upon their Oath. Signed JACOB LEISLER. AFFIDAVIT AGAINST COL. BAYARD & CERTAIN PARTIES ON STATEN ISLAND. New York Septem 25, 1689. A declaration of Barthomew Le Roux declareth that Col Bayard having demanded of the' Company of Captain Munvielle in the presence of the Leut Nicholson & others, of the Capts of this City, as they were assembled in James fort of this City the reasons that obliged them to Appear in arms the whole company whereas they were ordered of their Captains that they should watch but hal f the Company & that they did oppose the Govor LIEUT. GOV. LEISLER. 29 & he the Colonell at the fort Gate, & would not desist but wo IuJ,. come & keep Guard with the whole company, & the said Bartho1 le Roux having given him this answer, which was the True reasons, as the Company did then and doth Still acknowledge to be the truthFirst-That we had a. relation in this City, that the Papist upon Station Island did threaten to cut the inhabitants throats & that the People had left their Plantations & were running the woods, & some gone with their fanilys in their boats and lay upon the river & further they threatened to come and burn this City & that Mr Dela Prearie had arms in his house for fifty men. 21y. That we had Certain information that there was Eighty or a hundred men coming from boston & other places that were hunted away, no doubt not for their goodnes & that there were several of them Irish & Papist & the Governor had desighed to take them in the fort yt which they would not suffer3d. That a good part of the Soldiers that were in the fort already were papist & that they thought themselves not secure, to be so guarded & if it be so that but half a Company should be permitted to keep guard, they would not be above ten or fifteen men in the fort & therefore they thought themselves not secure in the fort so weak 4th. That the same day there was Complaint made that Col Dongan, his Brigantine was fitted out with a considerable Quantity of Guns & amonitions & made Water and provisions & that her whole loading was no other than if she had been designed for some warlike design & notwithstanding was Suffered to depart this port without interruption, these reasons did obleidge us to Come with the whole company to secure ourselves, the best we could, against the fears that were put upon us, The Answer from Co1 Bayard to the Company As to the matter of Staten Island, it was false for I have (saith he) Spoke with a boatman that came from Staten Island & he informed me, that all was at peace & Quiet upon the Island & for M La Prearie if you, find more than two guns in his house, I will give you twenty Pounds, & if you be afraid you shall go to night & see if you will, & I will lend you my boat —And as for the 30 ADMINISTRATI-ON O Barkantine I have been aboard myself & see, she is loaded with pipes staves & flower and designed for the Maderia as for the Guns the Captain told me that if I would give him security, that if he was taken by the Turk or any of his people to redeem them, that then he would leave his guns, but I thought that might cost possibly three or four thousand pounds if Such a thing should fall out & would not venture to give Such Security, and the guns are his own, & I could not take any mans goods by force besides the Captain Swears that if any come a board hie will cut them over the pate, or Knock their brains out. As for the other reasons, the Papists in the fort and those Soldiers comming from Boston he made no other answer this that the governor was an honest man & as for the Papists were few & insignificant, & that we were very Unwise to afraid of them, I will lend you my boat to night, if you will go to Staten Island & Satisfy yourselves, four or five of us answered we were willing to go, then he said I think it is better to let it alone till to Morrow Morning & then I will lend you my boat-And so accordingly we went the next Morning to Staten Island were the first news we had was, that they were afraid to Lay in their beds for fear of the Papists & that they heard that Ml De la Prearie's house there were arms for a hundred men, we Spoke to Mr Vincent a frenchman, that had left his house & had taken his family in his boat & went and lay upon the river for fear of these relations, Mr Mark told us that about eighteen or Nineteen Persons had run from their houses about the Place where he lived & lay in the woods through these fearsThe above relation I am ready to depose upon my Oath as witness my hand Signed BARTHO: LE RoUX Sworn before Me the day and Year as first above written Signed JACOB LEISLER I do declare I was present & do testify to the truth of what is above written Signed PETER WHITE Sworn before me the day & year as first above written Signed JACOB LEISLER Recorded amongst the records of the Committee of Safety the 26th day of 7ber 1689 pr me Signed ABRAHAM GOUVERNEUR Clk Committee LIEUT. GOV. LEISLER. 31 TO THE GOVERNOR OF BOSTON. 1689: 25th September in the fort of New Yorke. HONORED SIR-I referre your honor to all myne former since I have understood by Mr Greverad mine advise to be acceptable to your honor, I have received a letter from the assembly of Maryland, whereof a copie is here enclosed, whereby your honor may discover the state and conditions of that part, I have also open a suspected letter, whereof is here enclosed a copie, whereby is discovered some of the papisticall tricks, yesterday arrived here a man from Maryland who affirms that ten days agoe was murdered by the french Indians 20 families at the head of potoxgie river in Maryland, & that the Indianes of great Chaptancler have destroyed their come & fled in a swamp, who being persued & found Sd they were Skarred by some ill affected people & assured by the change of the moon they were to be destroyed by the English, I recommend againe your honor the care in answer about our records & after respects recommend your honor in Gods protectione & remaine &c your honors most humble Servant. &c. TO THE ASSEMBLY OF MARYLAND. A: 1689: 29th September in the fort of New York. GENTLEMEN-I have received your acceptable letter the 18 of this instant & communicated as directed, wee have considered the contents with due affection & returne you many thanks for your friendly & neighbourly advice, & embrace with all our hearts your offers of a mutuall & amiable correspondance with you, which we shall labour to keep & preserve inviolable towards you, & without fail shall omitt nothing that may appeare any wayes to your intrest peace & wellfare as we also doe with Boston & Connecticutt collony being of the same opinion with you, that it is the onely meanes to preserve their Maj: intrest & to prevent the papists & popishly evill affected adversaries to effect & bring to pass their wicked intents & designes agt their Maties loyall protestant subjects throw all his dominions in these parts of America, as we have good cause to suspect with you by severall depositions & circumstances before us thereunto relating, It is 3 weeks agoe .32 AUA i).l;NlSTRATION OF that I heard of som1e of your papist grandees to be at philadeiphia expecting them nearer these parts to conferr with some of our papists, & ifr some bad designer for the which I made all the Inquisition imaginable with resolution to secure them, well if I had found them, but I beleeve hearing the absence of Colloll Dongan he was at Rhoad Island where sir Edmond Andross arl.yved the same tyme, having made his escape from Boston (where he is now in fast hold again) the sd dongan is now in these parts again, he hes ranged all the country & is mett daily by severall where it may be also they may come, I shall omitt nothing if I heare of them to secure them, I gott a printed proclamation from new England the 21 June of their Maties King William & Queen Mary to be King & Queen of England france & Ireland & have immediately proceeded to the proclamation which was solemnly effected, the next day I understood that they are also proclaimed at Barbadoes King & Queen of scotland but have seen no proclamatione thereof as yet, I have detained here a wholl week Mr william Hinson & John Hinson expecting to get some partar advice from Albany of the negotiatione between'the agents of new England & the sinicks & mohacks but understand onely that they have treated & are of good intelligence, the s, Indianes have open warre with the french & their Indianes & have for certane kild & taken prisoners above 500 french men women & children they give quarters but to very few but torture them as their customary way, the city of Albany suffers the late King James souldiers there to keep the fort by themselves & are payed with faire words, there is brought a letter to me by one of the old souldiers directed to him by the commander of the sd fort, he offers him a sergeants place & desires him to list for the service of King William & Queen Mary soe many souldiers as he can gett of Major Brockhouse & Capt: Baisters companies both rank papists, & to send them to him, but by 2 or 3 at the tyme which is very suspicious, I have done all the diligence imaginable, to Joine Albany to us, have caused their Maties to be proclaimed there, but they are luld asleep by some of the former creatures to the late Government, of which wee have a great many amongst us. We have intelligence by the way of Maderes by a man of warre bound for St Helena, of about 12 LIEUT. GOV. LEISLEM. 33 weeks from England', that therere ree 60: men of warre boundl to Ireland, & that all the colliers & shis of note were detained to land an army there & 30 or 40000 men was to be landed from scotland & the sd man of warre had a commission to take all great ships except from Loncondary, this is all the newes we have at present I conclude embraceing againe your brotherly offer & to sollicite & court you also for a friendly & neighbourly correspondence, upon all occasiones, I assure you I shall omitt nothing that may be serviceable to your intrest to the utmost of my power, Since I received yours I understand of one boat coming from Virginia four weeks agoe with six men that they were out upon piracy to take a Catch going out with provisione, I manned a boate to persue & take them, they were brought up & found by evidence & inquisition they were upon the sd designe being found in their boat, one graspelling & rigger stolen already from tuo vessels whereof I have 3 in prisone, by this you may know with what zeale & intrest I am sir Your most humble servant TO CAPT. WILLIAMI HIARRIS. 1689: 29 September in the fort of New York. SIR-being informed by Mr. John Inson that you are honored with a charge of a barges in your generall assembly, which hes honored us with a letter to which the enclosed is. one answer have sealed the same with a flying seal that you' may have the perusal thereof and further to direct it to him you know best needful, If any thing offers needful to acquaint the sd assembly, I shall continow the same except you direct me a better way in the mean tyme after my respects, I remaine &ct. TO MARYLAND. SiR-1 thought convenient to advise you that if you send here 150 lbs prime tobacco you may expect 14 or 15 shill: per 100 lbs, it being for to defray charges of the expedition of Albany, may very well be excused of the penny per pound & be a great ease for your province. VOL. II. 3 34 ADMINISTRATION OF Since my above letter was written I received Informatione that they of philadelphia send their pouder to the french, & that Albertus Brand has declared himself in the following expression that it was agt their priflls to fight therefore when the french comes they are intended to send some of the wisest people to tell them that rather would give their land & goods than to fight & that it was all one under whom he lives with such Expressions they will render your people odious & suspected I thought convenient to advise you that you may take away such stumbling blocks &ct. * SEC'Y ALLYN TO LEISLER. Hartford Octob. 10, 1689 HONORd SIR The occasion of these lines is to inform you that we have been & are now at great charge and expences many wayes, by reason of the Indian war, & the necessity of Albany who dayly expect to be invaded by the French, to whome we purpos to send som reliefe, & also a great sickness amongst vs, which hath diminished or numbers, besides a great loss that we haue mett wth in our crop, being so disinabled by sickness, that we could not gather it in, so that we see orselves necessitated to call in that ayd of ten souldiers or their pay, wch we haue hitherto granted you for the secureing of the forte at Yorke, and doe accordingly [notify] you that we by these, doe from this day call in the ayd aforesaid, and shall not allow it any longer, yet that you may be encouraged to keep the fort for their Maties service, if any forreign force should invade you, we shall be ready to relieve you according to Or ability & capacity; we dayly expect a setlement from England, but it doth not yet come, but hope it will shortly & prevent all occasions of trouble and disquietments, both to you & vs. Sr we wish you all prosperity & are These for the Honble Your affectionate friends the Generall Capt. Jacob Leisler Court of Conecticot pr their order, Comander in Cheife of Signed their Maties forte JOHN ALLYN Sec'y in New Yorke. this. LIEUT. GOV. LEISLER. 35 LEISLER'S PROCLAMATION CONFIRMING THE ELECTION BY THE CITIZENS OF THE MAYOR, SHERIFF, CLERK AND COMMON COUNCIL OF NEW YORK. Whereas, by order of ye Committee of Safety it was orderedthat ye Mayor, Sherife and Clerk shall be chosen by ye Mayor and votes of ye freeholders Come to Peter De La Noy Esq. for Mayor and Johannes Johnson for Sherife and Abra. Gouverneur for Clerk who were accordingly confirmed as viz: By the Commander in Chiefe &c. Whereas ye Committee of Safety have appointed me to confirme ye Civil magistrates and officers for ye Citty and County of New Yorke chosen by ye Protestant freemen of sd City and County of New York according to returns made by virtue whereof I doe hereby accordingly confirm Peter De La Noy to be Mayor, Johannes Johnson, Sherife and Abraham Gouverneur town clerke for sd City and County of New York, to continue in their sd stations according to ye true intent and meaning of ye act of said Committee And also do confirm for ye next ensuing yeare for ye City and County of New York Hendrick Van Veurden, Alderman; Goert Olphelse. assistant and Nicolaes Blanck, constable for ye West ward: John Spratt, alderman; Gerret Duycking assistant, Edward Brinckmaster, constable for ye Dok ward: Robert Walters, alderman; Joannes Provoost, assistant, John Thomas, constable, for ye South ward: Cornelis Plevier, alderman; Henry Ten Eyck, assistant, John Ewouts, constable for ye North ward: John Hendrick Bruyns, Alderman; Peter Adolph, assistant, Daniel Brevoort constable, for ye East ward: Joannes Van Cowenhoven, alderman; Wolfert Webber, assistant; Frederick Lymonse constable for ye Out ward, and John Brevoort, constable for Harlem division. Therefore are all inhabitants hereby required to give due obedience to ye Magistrates and officers, and are to acknowledge the same accordingly at Fort Amsterdam ye 14 Octo. 1689 and on ye first year of ther Majestys Reigne. JACOB LEISLER. NOTE-I am indebted to the politeness of D. T. Valentine, Esq., clerk of the Common Council of New-York, for the above (Record. 36 ADMINISTRATION OF LEISLER TO THE ASSEMBLY OF MARYLAND. A. 1689 15 october The above is a coppy of my last to which I referre you since we have certaine news from new England that they have killed 50 Indians of their enimies & tooke six captives monks with the King1 the English have lost 8th men &2 IndiansIn the actions I had Intelligence of severall persons meeting in a papist house where I thought some of your fugitives might have been mongst them, made me resolve to send 25 souldiers who besett the house in the night but found non but the family & disarmed the man & brought him to me whom I released again upon his parroll to harbor no Jesuit nor to intertaine bigger company than tuo in his house, we hear from pensilvania that there is lately arryved a man of warr katch from England to Virginia, I desire if any newes worth will acquaint me with it, we expect tomorrow our committees to meet for to resolve to send some forces to Albany to secure them from the french next winter, our Indians doe daily gett spoile upon them the french prisoners reports that warre betwixt france & England is proclaimed at Canada, having for present no more to enlarge after my respects I remaine &ct. * COL. BAYARD'S VINDICATION OF THE LEGALITY OF GOV. ANDROS' COMMISSIONS. To Captn ABRAM DE PEYSTER & Capn JOHN DE BR1UYN commander of the two respective companies of the trained bands in New York to be communicated to the rest of the commissioned OfficersGENTLEMEN-Whereas Jacob Leisler & some of his associates have in an hostile- & illegal manner-invaded their Maties fort at New York & withal infringed & subverted all manner of Government by law established within the City of New York & Some parts adjacents, not having any the Least shadow of Authority from our gracious Sovereigns King William & Queen Mary so to do, I therefore considering the Obligations lying upon me by the Several commissions as being one of the Council of 1? Amongst which the King.-ED. LIEUT. GOV. LEISLER. 37 this their Maties Dominions & Coll of the regiment of the train bands in New York, both from the Crown of England, neether of which (notwithstanding the Sd Invasion insurrection, or other troubles) are any ways vacated or Superceded I find it to be my present Duty to the Crown of England & do hereby strictly require & Command you & each of you, that you upon immediate Sight hereof desist from any ways, councelling, aiding assisting, or betting the illegal proceedings of the said Jacob Leisler & his Associates & not to suffer any of the soldiers under C6mmand to be made use of or employed Upon any service Whatsover of the said Leisler either in the fort or Elsewhere as being most pernicious, Dangerous & Contrary to the peace of Sovereign Lord & Lady King William & Queen Mary their Crown & Dignity, but that You and each of You together with the Soldiers under your Command (as in duty bound) do give all due obedience to the lawfull Commands of the Cival Government Established by law & in particular to those of the Justices of the Peace commissionated by the Govenor Sir Edmond Andros, by virtue of letter Patents from the Crown of England as being our Supreme power which said Commissions I find & do aver to be in full force, notwithstanding the imprisonment (yea-Death) of any Govenor that granted the same, he being only an inferior officer of the Crown & the Commissions being matter of records, & therefore You shall faithfully perform their said Lawfull Commands as far as it Shall be in your Power, so to do, & at all times bear good faith & allegiance to their said Maties as you will answer the Contrary as the peril Given under my hand & Seal at Albany this 20th of Sber in the first Year of the Reign of our Sovereign Lord & Lady King William & Queen Mary Ad. 1689 Signed N BAYARD LEISLER TO THE GOVERNOR AT BOSTON. Anno 1689; 22 october in New yorl. MUCH HONORED sIR-Yours of the 26 Septer cam well to myne hands for which I returne your honor many hearty thanks, I hope the success of the trett by your agents with the siniques & 38 ADMINISTRATION OF Mohacks is long since knowen to your honor, I perceive also your great & extraordinary charges & your uncomfortable warre with the Indians your enimies discourages me partly of the expectation the people of Albany have of some assistance of men for this winter being in Just fear for some attack & never in a worse posture of defence then now, their fort being in possession still of the old late King James souldiers, Inclosed is a coppie of a letter of the commander to one of my souldiers but I perceive it is with advice of some of sir Edmonds creatures who still daily works for division, which to prevent I shall at last be obliged to Secure some, I am certainly informed that they have offered 100 lb to rescue sir Edmund out of your custody & bring him here, Therefore very glad to perceive by your honors letter that they are securely keept with a good guard I am informed your honor has received a par'lar letter from a vessell then broke [Wessel Tenbrook] of Albany of which I desire your honor for a copie, he is a persone who has formerly professed popery, & recanted a protestant & been employed by our late papist Governor dongan, for ambassador to Canada & understand not one word french, for which embassador he has been well rewarded, by both parties being a mistery to many, he is recorded at Albany in noe quality for that office he has occasioned fourty milles from Albany towards the french to build a fort upon his land where he has send 12 men to guard it, who must be a sacrifice if they come & the fort a nest to the enemies as penaquide was, our committie & military have voted 50 men to be sent up for assistance at Albany, as per enclosed appeares. I give your honor hearty thanks for your readines in assisting us with guns & powder, but frustrate by your own skarcety, I have bought at Burlingtoun 1000 lb powder & given order to buy all what may be had at philadelphia & intend please God to send for it by land with a convoy of 40 men, & shall endeavor that their Maties may be proclaimed thereabout over record, I give your honor also hearty thanks for the care, and desire if possible onely for the present to have a catalogue of bookes and papers there belonging to this province, I further desire your honor for a mutuall & neighbourly correspondence as occasion shall requyre, in all matters conducing LIEUT GOV. LEISLER. 39 to their Maties service & I shall omit nothing that may appeare serviceable to your intrest & wellfare, I shall add no more but that I am sir &c. THE SAME TO THE SAME. A: 1689: the 30: october in fort william HONORED SIR:-Inclosed is a letter which was intended by Major Savits who departed before I had it ready, Since I had the honor to receive yours by John Moll, for which I am infinitely obliged, I have newes Since that there is secured in the fort and toun at delaware 5000 lb powder, which I intend please God to fetch by land with a convoy, the 50 souldiers for assistance to Albany are to depart to day or to morrow Enclosed is a coppie of a letter from London by the last ship that arryved at delaware last June from doctor Cox to Mr ffathan, where your honor may see the character & opinione they have in England of sir Edmond. Collonell Byard and the late Mayor & custome master abscond themselves & cannot be found to answer for which may be alleged to them, I desire your honors further friendly correspondence, after my respects I remaine sir &c. THE SAME TO MR. JOHN FFATHAM. A: 1689: 30 october in fort William HONORED SIR-Yours by Mr Lucas is come safe to my hand, as also the original letter of Governor Cox, for which I amn infinitely obliged to you & it hes given me & all the Inhabitants that hes seen it great satisfactione, Inclosed is the sd letter againe. I admire my wine in Mr Carpenters hand should have groun so bad, being so good when I sent it about, the 2 pipes sold by Mr Johannes de has, whereof he hes the effects. It is my order in the letter to pay it to Monsieur dubrois therefore will certainly be Satisfied but the letter I believe being in dutch makes you make that conclusione I understand by Monsieur dubrois his letter that hee was upon his departure for Cap May, hee desires me the coppy attested of the proclamationes of their Matics to be King 40 ADTAINISTRATION OF & Queen of England ffrance & Ireland &c. which is also here enclosed, I have sent one attested by some welchman bound to Cap May with orders to desire any sheriffe or Justice of the peace in them parts to proclaime their Sd Maties, If refused to do it themselves, we are sending 50 men to Albany to secure the fort there for their Maties King William & Queen Mary agt the french & their adherents Indianes, after their departure, I shall endeavor for to fetch the 1000: lb pouder I bought of you & to see what money I can send for more, I desire in the mean tyme you will be pleased to lett the cooper trimme them substantially & you will oblige him who is &c. LEISLER TO THE GOVERNOR OF BARBADOES. A. 1689 23 November in fort William MOST HONORED SIR THE GOVERNOR OF BARBADOES-Whereas wee being in just feares to suspect some ill designe by the late Lieut: Governor & severall persons of prinll note & others of them in authority within this government popishly & evilly affected, tending to the destructione of their Maties loyall protestant subjects here, for fear they should effect and bring to pass some wicked designe, The Inhabitants by the encouragement of the prince of orange (now our gracious King) his 3 declarations for their security have secured the fort for their Maties,King William & Queen Mary wherein the country has appointed me Commander in Chiefe till further orders from their Maties, which charge I have executed hitherto to the service of their Maties & have God be thanked-brought all things in such a posture that next God we are in a capacity of defence, only we are daily occupyed by some popishly & evill affected people which puts us upon many inconveniences & straits & obliges me to have a watching eye over all so it is that the 3d of november in the night arryved here a sloope from Barbadoes commanded by Captn Benjamin Blagg he gave me an accompt that six dayes after his departure from Barbadoes he mett with a french ship he tooke him & keept him for 48 hours & sold the ship to an Irish who was on board the sd french man of warre wherein they permitted the sd Blagg LIEUT. GOV. LEISLER. 41 to go as pilot the sd Irish intending for Maryland but were piloted in this harbour as by the copie enclosed out of the sd Blaggs Journall will appeare No 1: In the morning I sent two souldiers aboard to seize her as being in the french possessione & had the sd Irish before me who produced a french bill of sale without condemnatione &a pass for them & the vessell whereof inclosed is a copie No 2 the 4th Novem being the birth day of our gracious King which -we did solemnise with bonefires & rosting one ox &c. the fifth was gun pouder treason which also we did solemnise with bonefires & burning the pope-In which tyme-I was not willing to confine the sd Irish, but the sixth I sent for them their chess & papers from which they were detained all that whill where I found a pass from the Earle of Blerock whereof the copie here inclosed n: 3: besides two letters of recommendation both open whereof they were the bearer, here inclosed is the copie n: 4: whereupon I gathered the officers of the Militia & keept counsell of warre being examined by them, they could make no other excuse of their escape from Barbadoes as that they were in debt, but we found them absolute enimies of their Maties therefore was concluded that they were to be sent to Barbadoes to your honor suspecting them to have committed some other crymes, & made an order whereof the copie is here enclosed since we understand they have forced tuo warre men with their warriers & that your honor was much concerned about their ship so that by a warrant I have commanded Mr Thomas Capewell commander of the Bark Constant to take them & to deliver them to your honors order as per copie n: 5: inclosed, being no better meanes to the conduceing to their Maties service & interest then a friendly amicable & mutuall correspondancy between their severall goverments especially under such circumstances as we now are having first according to our bounden duty upon sight of their Maties proclamation duly proclaimed their sacred Maties King William & Queen Mary according to the tenor of the sd proclamation, doe in the next place sollicite & court your honor to bear us' your hearty affection & mutuall good correspondancy as occasion shall requyre in all matters of import conduceing to their Maties service & the wellefare of their protestant subjects, I shall omit nothing that shall appeare serviceable to your honors intrest, here 42 ADMINISTRATION OF is noe news but what we have df the tuo Irish, noe ships arryued out of England, having no more to add, but that I, am &c. * COL: COODEE TO LEISLER. St Mary's County in Maryland Nov 26, 1689. HONble Sr —Yours courteous letter, directed to ye Assembly in Mayryland wch is now under adjournment. I have received & having ye honr of the chief command of his Mati-s forces here, thought it my duty return an answer by ye first opertunity possible. Your greate ciuilitie I have comunicated & reprsented to all or friends here, who are extremely glad of so neer and convenient a friendship, especially since or circumstances are so alike, & ye comon danger so equally threatening: we have still ye same reasonable & just aprehensions wtl yors & ye N. England governmt of a great designe that was on foot to betray & ruine their Maties and ye Protestant interest through all these northern parts the attempts to disarme ye Protestants in this Province last spring, ye overturnes to, & Treatys wth or neighbouring & other Indians wth other treacherous & inhumane practices, (too tedious for a letter) from ye late governr here, gave us just case as to fly to armes at first, so still to prsist & stand upon Or guard to prevent traiterous interprises & or oune ruine I thought it convenient herewth to send you or declaracon, weh is ye least part of what we have to say agst or Popish politicons, agst whom there are dayly more discoverie & informacons, of which we have not much before us that in any prticular or distinct manner relates to ye govermt unlesse this may be anything significant. We met wth a paper to ye governmt from ye late King James, relating to a great correspondency & amity, we were comanded to keep wth or French neighbours in America, a copy of which I have herewth sent you, notwthstanding wCh, this is remarkable that Collo Dongan sent to us and Virginia, to contribute or assistance towards a Warr wth ye French, wch was complyed wth I understand in Virginia, but disobeyed here, for reasons wch I leave to yor conjecture-as also what might be meant by settling ye bounds and limits of these Collonies, LIEUT. GOV. LESILER. 43 unlimitated in ye sd paper, besides ye severall dates and terminacers thereof towards ye latter end, wch to much like that plotting & designing Councill to be casuall & therefore plainly points to us what was then to be done. I believe or greate men of this province, some of yours & N. England were a Caball & held a great correspondency agst ye Protestant interest as it was & is ye endeavours of ye Popish world, besides which observacon Wee made before Or motion here from severall and frequent messages from your parts hither) especially to ye Priests who have alwayes ye Chief Share in ye Managemt of intrigues agst ye Protestants: Three of or Popish Governrs are fled (to wit) one Darnall, Josephs and Sewall, we have two onely in Custody; one Pye and Hill, wch three Priests they had a designe towards your parts if feare of discovery hath prvented, they have wth them a small yacht & Brigantine, if they be not retaken, having sent after them, we desire you would be pleased to be as kind to us as your circumstances will permit wch shall oblige us to a due requitall, especially if any discovery that related to us happens before ye communicacons of wCh will be a great advantage to a genll understanding, & may enlighten to a further discovery of ye great design that was to be carried on. As to newes from England or ye West Indians, ye last came by his Maties Packett boat, who left England in June, his business only to bring his Maties orders woh were in ye three distinct letters to Virginia, Maryland & Pennsilvania, signifying only a war wth France, & that we must take effectuall care for ye opposing or resisting any attemps of ye French upon this Province, assuring his subjects here, his greatest protecon, by sending a considerable squadron of ships in to ye West Indians & other succors for prtecting his Maties Plantacons in America; no great matters of news else, but all was well in England & ye reducing of Ireland went on prosperously; som of opinion that ye prsent circumstances of Albany deserve your greatest consideracons, & therefore no paines nor opertunity should be spared, to oblige or secure ye same to ye Kings service agst ye French who will doubtless attempt something in ye sprinke, we have certaine informacon that a considerable squadron of men of war, are gone from ffrance towards 44 ADMINISTRATION OF Canada; we have written home by ye sd Packett Boate to his Maties principall Secry of State, ye present condicon & circumstances of us all, wherein we have prsumed to intimate ye great service you havedone his Maties interest in all these parts, by securing so considerable a member of his dominions, wch is ye Sixth Vessell by wch we have sent advise of our proceedings. I begg ye happiness of a line or two from yor Honour by ye first oportunity wch will oblige us all to a due requitall, especially Honord Sr Yor most faithful humble servant JNO COODEE The declaracons & letters of ye last King James, intimated in this have not at present been recd by me, being very remote from my papers. J. C. To ye Honorble Jacob Leisler Esq. Commander in Chiefe of his Maties forces in N. Yorke These For their Maties Service BY THE LIEUT. GOVERNOR, &c. WHEREAS Mathew Plowman Gent with others did about ye Beginning of this month in A Riotous manner beate one of his Majties Justices of ye Peace for Richmond County on Staten Island, and use other Scurrilous & Contemptuous Expressions against the Kings Magistrates for this Province and Complaint being madeThese are in his Majties King Williams name to require you forthwith to take ye Body of said Plowman and bring before mee to answer for ye same and in so doing this shall be yor sufficient Warrant. GIVEN &c. this 10th lay of december 1689. JAcoB LEISLER. To any of his maties Justices of the Peace for the County of Richmond abovesaid. LIEUT. GOV. LEISLER. 45 * APPOINTMENT OF LEISLER'S COUNCIL. At an Assembly By appointment of the Lieut. Governr & Commander Chief of their Maties Province of N York December the 11th 1689. Present The Lieut Governr, &ca Pieter Delanooy Mayor Samuel Edsall Capt. Gerardus Beekman Capt. Thomas Williams Committees Johannes Vermelje Capt. Myndert Coerten Roeloff Swartwout Having Received Orders from his Matie King William for taking care of the Government of this Province &ca. It was proposed by ye Lieut. Governr what members should be thought fitt for his Councill to manage the same untill further order from his Maties King William Whereupon after a due deliberation and consult the following persons were Recommended vizt Mr Pieter de la Noy Mr Samuel Staats, Mr. Hendrick Janzen and Mr Johannes Vermelje, for the Citty & County of New-Yorke, Capt. gerardus Beekman for Kings County, Mr Samuel Edsall for Queens County, Capt Thos Williams for Westchester County, Mr William Lawrence of the County of Orange whome the Lieut Governr &ca doth accept of and Establish as such and are ordered to take the oath as is provided by the Law of this Province for qualifying them for the said office: woh is this day accordingly done. 46 ADMINISTRATION OF PLEDGE OF THE PEOPLE OF HURLEY TO SUPPORT THEIR REPRESENTATIVES. [Translation.] We the undersigned hereby acknowledge to agree to what our committee may do or enact for the welfare and allegiance of our Gracious Matie King William and Queen Mary for the benefit of our country and the advancement of the Protestant Religion, whereunto we pledge both Body and Lives. In witness of the Truth we have subscribed these with our own hands. Ady the 12 decemb. 1689. at Hurley. was signed, Hendrick Clasen, Johannes d'hooges, Roelof Hendrix in It velt, Adriaen Garritsen, Hendrick in't velt the mark of Gerrit Cornelis, the mark of Tho: Swartwout, the mark of Cornelis Gerrits, Mattys Blansjan, Johannes Juriaensen van Anthony Crespel Kingstown the mark of Pieter Pietersen Huybert Lambertsen Jan Elcinge, Barent Kunst, Jacob Gerrritsen, his mark Agrees with the Original, Luer Jacobsen WM. MONTAGNE the mark of Hants van Etcen Mattys Sleght van Kingstown. LEISLER TO THE GOVERNOR OF BARBADOES. A. 1689: 16 december in fort William The above is a copie of my last with all the copies referring to it, also the second bill of loading with the masters recept for the letters delivered to him directed to your honor en the impressione of my seall to your honors letter, since the departure of the bark from the rhoad, I gott information of his staying in the bay I have sent 3 boats with 27 souldiers with a warrant & instructions to the Lieutenant whereof the copie is here enclosed Mr. Nicolson therein exprest is the brother of our late Lieut LIEUT. GOV. LEISLER. 47 Governor Nicolson of whom we were informed by a Justice of peace that since his departure on board he drunk the kings health with a figure., they departed to see this morning when I send the above Sd souldiers, but I am certainly informed that they were sett on shore & have been seen in a company of papists & popishly affected people at Amboy, If they are imbarqued againe I am in doubt & hope your honor will take such care therein as the cause doth requyre, the eight of this instant arryued by the way of Boston a messenger with two gracious letters the one from their Maties with orders to doe & performe all things which to the place & office of his Maties Lieut: Governor & Commander in Chiefe of New York doth or may appertain untill further order, the other letter was from their Maties Counsell signed by eleaven of them with orders to proclaim william & Mary prince & princess of orange to be King & Queen of England Scotland ffrance & Ireland defender of the faith & Supreme Lord & Lady of the province of new york & all other the territories & dominions to the croun of England belonging (if not already done) which was very solemnly effected the 10th instant, I also received a letter from the honorable Governor of Boston Lyman Bradstreet dated 27 November, he informes me that he had information of some of their people that was taken by tuo french men of warre upon the coast of arcada, they say that the french told them they were near tuelve men of warre that came out of France to surprise Boston being sent for by sir Edmond Andros who promised the country should be delivered to them as they say, but meeting with some dutch men of warre they lost of 4 of their ships & some on the bank & hearing of sir Edmonds confinement their designe was disappointed they went away from the eastward about six or seven weeks after the date of his letter some sd to france some to new york but I believe they are gone to the west Indies, he advised me also that he had received tuo gracious letters from his Matie the one approving & allowing what had been done in reference to the late revolution & authority to proceed, the other letter was a command from his Matie to send sir Edmond Andros, Mr Randolph & severall others in safe custody to whitehall, severall ships being departed from England with convoy, doubt not but your honor will have all the newes that 48 ADMINISTRATION OF we are able to inform your honor, having no more to enlarge, requesting onely your charitable & friendly acceptance of rwhat in hast is here omitted by him who is Your honors most humble servant &c. MINUTES OF COUNCIL. [Record torn.] Ordered, that the major Part of the members of the [Council] do all things in as full force & virtue as if the whole number of [members were] present. At a Councill held the same day &ca. The same persons present. Ordered. that Jacob Milborne be Secretary of this his Maties Prouince & Clerk to the Lieut Governor and Councill thereof tooke his oath at the same time. At a Councill held the same day &caPresent The Lieut Governr &ca Mr Samuel Edsall Capt Gerardus Beeckman Capt Thomas Williams Mestr Samuel Staats Mr Johannes Vermelje Ordered that Mr Pieter d' la Noy be Commissionated for receiving his Maties King William's revenues of this province of N. Yorke. Saturday Decemb. 14th 1689. At a Councill heldPresent Lieut Governor &c. Samuel Edsall Pieter d' La Noy Samuell Staats Capt Thomas William Johannes Vermelje Hendk Jansen LIEUT. GOV. LEISLER. 49 Ordered That the Costumes and Accize be Collected according to an Act made by the Assembly for this province Anno 1683, and the same to be publisht forthwith. [Record torn.] At a Councill Decemb. 16. 1689. Present Lieut Governr &c Samuel Edsall Pieter d'Lanoy Gerardus Beekman Capt. Williams Samuel Staats William Lawrence Johannes Vermilje Ordered that Captn Abraham depeyster remayes in his Command provided that he Satisfyed the Lieut Governor & Councill he is duly qualified for that function. At a Councill Decemlr 17. 1689. Present Lieut Governr &ca Samuel Edsall Pieter d'Lanoy Captn Williams William Lawrence Johannes Vermelje Ordered that Captn Ebenezer Platt be, Commissionated to administer oaths to ye rest of the Justices of the County of Suffolk Capt Beekman for Kings County Samuell Edsall for Queens County Capt Tho Williams for Westchester County William Lawrence for Orange County. The orders of Councill Transmitted to the Councill Book No. 20 folio i11 [not found. i VOL. II. 4 50.A'D)MINWST"r''RATI'a'A O F' fLY TtHE LIEVl GOVERNO0 & COMMANDER IN CHIEFE &c. Whereas I bane received a Letter from the Lords of his Maties most honble Privye Councill dated 29th July 1689 for Proclaiming William & Mary Prince & Princess of Orange, King & Queene of England) Scotland, ffrance & Ireland (If not already done) wCh was accordingly prformed at New York the 10th of Decembr Instant These are to will & Command you with the assistance of the Principall freeholders & Inhabitants of ye County of Suffolk to Proclaime their Sacred Ities according to the forme herewith sent at ye Chief Towne of ye said County, with the Solemnities & Ceremonyes requisite on the Like Occasion and yt with all convenient speed; and for so doing this shall be yor sufficient Warrant. Given &c N. York Decembr 19th 1689. JACOB LEISLER. The same to Richmond, Westchester, Queens, Kings, & Ulster Counties; to ye Citty & County of Albany & ye County of' East Jersey, and one proclamation. NoTE.-There is an order to the same effect to the Justice of Richmond County dated 17 Dec. 1689 & to Capt John L]ongstaf of New East Jersey dated 4th March 1689-90. BY THE LIEUT GOVERNOR & COUNCILL Whereas their was Proclamation made by the authority abovesd bearing date the 16th decembr instant to give notice that ye Costumes and Accize granted by Act of Assembly 1683 haue and do remaine in full force & that all Persons were reqtuired to observe ye same notwithstanding wch some disaffected person hath taken the same from the Weigh house or custome house doore of this Citty where by Order they were affixed. And moreover some unknowing or malicious prsons have in a Contemptuous manner affixed Certaine papers entituled (By them English ffreemen of the Province of New York) Containing false construction on the wholesome Lawes of England not regarding An Act of the ffreemen represented in Assembly as LXiT, GoV. IEI:EISLER 51 aforesd Vi-z' Thrat the Supreamte Legislat e Authority under his Maties &ca shal for ever be & reside in a Governar Councill & the People met in Generall AssemblyThese are to advertize whomsoever it may or shall concerne that none from henceforth do dare to deface or take of any paper wch shall be affixed by the Authority of this Province or City, or affix any other Papers without approbation of the said Authority as they Twill answer it at their Perill. Given &c. this 20th day of decembr 1689. JAcoB LEISLER.,_ —.'.._._............__,_, _,_, b_ — __-.~ — BY THE LIEUT. GOVERNOR AND COMMANDER IN CHIEF &e. By virtue of the Authority devised unto mee, I doe hereby authorize And Order you Capt. Jochem Staas to take possession (in his Matile King William's name) of the ffort Orange and all Stores of war there at Albany, Contnuing in that Command till farther orders taking Care yt ye Souldjers under your Command be Carefull of their duty and Comport themselves orderly in all respects as they ought and upon all occasions require yt you Send, or speake to ye Civill Magistrates in what may Concerne themI for ye Securing his Maties Interest, and ye welfare of ye Inhabitants of yt County, And yt by the first opportunity you returme me a p.:a.rticular Accot of y iiort, all Stores of'warr and hi; MNatis.Revenue in ye place & what Else in your Cognizance lmay be neces.-ry. Given &c New York this 28th day of dece.mb 1689. JACOB LEISLER New York Decernbr 28. 1689. (C, laEri LMN —b haue received yor Letters wch give me great Satisfaction of your integrity & resolucdn & having received Cders ros rom i aties King William to take care of this Gove:rnint laue sent my orders to Capt Staas & ye officers & People there1 by Which you will see how they Shall be setled Likewise goes herewith Commissions for yor Justices & to keep your Monethly Courts, desiring you to send me word by ye first what .52 ADMINISTRATION OF officers you shall choose for ye M/ilitia that so Commissions may be sent you: Entreating you to keep in Love and unity amongst your Selves, and as soone that your case shall be stated wth all ye advantage imaginable by him that Is Yor very Loving frind JACOB LEISLER. New York Decembr 28th 1689. CAPT JOCHEM STAAS-I have recd yor Letters and are very well Satisfyed wth your Conduct and Method of affaires Especially Keeping a good Correspondency with Capt Bull, not doubting but he will be of great use unto you Since ye Last Post sent you I have received his Maties orders for taking care of ye governmt in Nicholson's absence taking for my Assistance so many p'sons as shall thinke fit I have for yt purpose herewth sent you a Commission for Commanding the ffort &ca and for the Magistracy doe order yt a ffree Election be made of a Mayor, and Aldermen, having Sent Commissions for ye Sheriffe & Clerk, and ye Accise, but not ye Quit Rents because its not due till 25th March next I am willing to have the undermentioned p'sons chosen if ye people will Elect them vizt Johannes Wendell, Joh: Bleecker, Pieter Bogardus, Jacob Staas, Harmen Gaansvoort, Gabriel Thomassen, Jeronimus Wendell, Robert Sanders, Luycas Gerritse, and for ye other parts Major Abramsen Jochem Lamberts, ffor Schanectede, Vizt David Christoffels, Reyer Jacobsen, Myndert Wemp, Reynier Schaets Douwe Auckus hoping yt wth the Monethly Courts will be of Ease to them & that King William and Queen Mary may be proclaimed according to fforme and an order Sent to you for yt purpose, Likewise the 15th day of January for a thanksgiving, & y1 you do administer ye Oathes to ye Sheriffe & ye Justices of Schanechtede, Likewise you may see what ye King hath written to New England to approve of their actings, and a blank band for ye Scheriffe to seale hoping by ye next to hear yt ye Convention are of another opinion, of which pray give a speedy and Exact Account Enclosed you have a Letter to ye Civill & Military officers, & ye Inhabitants of your LIEUT. GOV. LEISLER. 53 city wch I Entreat may be read to them wth all Conveniency and dispatch with hearty respects, wishing youall happinesse I am Yo' Assured friend JACOB LEISLER. BY THE LIEUT GOVERNOR & COMMANDER IN CHIEFE &c. By virtue of authority to me derived by his Maties King William & being enformed of ye great advantage may be made for his Maties Interest of a Certaine ffort belonging to the ffrench King were destroyed I doe hereby authorize and empower you Nicholas Rust wth so many as shall voluntarily assist you, not exceeding twenty ffive men of ye King of England his subjects to goe forthwth unto or ware ye sd ffort named Kadarockqua joyned with the Indians in allyance wth this Or Crowne as to your wisdome shall seeme meete, and do assault attacque and utterly destroy ye sd ffort and raze it down to ye ground, as much as in you Lyes to prevent it Ever to be rebuilt againe & yt you give Christian Quarter to ye sd ffrench people therein if desired, but yt none of them may be delivered into ye possession of ye Indians to Exercise their Cruelty over them, & yt for ye plunder you may agree wth ye sd Indians to their satisfaction wch you are to divide amongst you & to oppose & to distruction bring all or any yt shall defend or assist ye ffrench Interest And for soe doing this shall be your Sufficient Warrant and Commission Given under my hand & seale at Fort William this 28th day of decembr 1689. JACOB LEISLER. BY THE LIEIT GOVERNOR & COUNCILL &c. Whereas the Late King James the Second &ca having abdicated the Governmt of England &ca & the throne being thereby vacant, in whose stead his highnesse ye Prince of Orange is become or most Gracious King & Soveraigne, Wee having received his sd Maties Order for governing this province of New York willing & 54 ADMIMISTR ATION OF requiring as to do & performe all things yt shall be found necessary for ye Kings Service & whereas diverse officers both Civill & Military have commissions from ye Late Governor Coll. Thomas Dongan & Sr Edmund Andross wc they vindicate & yet to this day assert & maintaine to be of fforce & Virtue as appears inan Especiall manner under ye hand and seale of Col: N: Bayard dated 20th Octobr Last asserting ye authority of ye Late K: James & his Governor (although it is manifest that they are illegal) to ye great prejudice of his Matie King William's right, Interest & Soveraignty of this his Sd Province likewise pernicious & dangerous to ye Governmt & to the great disquite & discouragemt both of ye Order, peace & tranquility of his Maties good subjects herein And yt proper Remedies May be applied to take of ye fears & Jealousijs thereby occasioned amongst ye sd sub jects, as also not only for ye present Ease but for future security of ye Kings dignity & o' safetyThese are iin his Matie8 name to Will & require all every or any prson or prsons within this province having such Commission or Commissions, warrants or other Instruments of power or Command Either Civill or Military from ye aforesd Coll Thomas Dongan or Sr Edmund Andross, upon notice of this our Order, forthwith or as soon as posible to apply themselves unto ye Major or one Justice of ye peace of the Respective Countys wherein he or they Live & Surrender ye same unto them who are Ordered to give such prson or prsons certificate of ye same, except the Coumty & city of New York & Richmond who are to repaire to fort William in pursuance of this Order and all such who shall not comply herewith are to be deemed &. esteemed as prsons III affected to this goverm nt & aunfit for bearxing o ice or having any trust reposed in them whatsoever & t o be regarded as ye case shall require. JACFort New York DeI Fort W in New Yok DPembet 30, 1689. LEUT. GOV. LEISLEo 55 BY THE LIEFUT GOVERNR & COUNCILL1 Forasmuch as there hath been detected a hellish Conspiracy to Subvert his Maties King W"ms Govermnt In this province and that ye same hath been & Yet Is promoted by Latters & other pernicious Messengers sent by ye sd Conspirators from hence to Boston. These are in his Maties name to Will & require You to make diligent Search & Enquiry In all howses as well as on ye Rhoad or what places soever you shall Suspect Such Messengers or Letter Carriers to be, or whosoever shall travaille'from hence bound for those parts or Coming thence wthout a Pass from under my hand ye same to Seize & bring before me wth all such papers as Shall be found with him or them and for so doing this shall be your suficient Warrant. Given &c. Jany 3d 1689,. JA-O)B LEISLiJa. To Daniel ter Neure or whom he shall apoint. A MEMORIALL OF WHAT HAS OCCURRED IN THEIR MAti.P. 1oVl[qCEi~, o? F NWr: YORK SINCE THE NEWS OF TfHEIR Aties8 EAPPY ARRIVALL IN' ENGLAND. Setting forth the necessity of removing Capt Fran: Nicholkox (late Lieut Govr of the said Province) and putting the command thereof into [the hands of such persons, of whose fidelity and good Inclination to their present Mwas the afobrsaid Province Is well assured. The said Capt Nicholson (in nmitation of his Predecessor Coll Dungan) wholly neglected to repair the Fort and Fortificao tions of the1c city, and tlhat not without a vehement suspiciton t-hereby the more easily to betray the same into the enemies hands, of which he gave the said Province sufficient grounds of apprehensions by discovering both by words and actions, his disaffection to the happy Revolution England, and also to the 56 ADMINISTRATION OF inhabitants of the City by threatening to fire the same about their ears. Whereupon the Inhabitants in order to secure the sd Fort and City for their Mats use and to repair and fortify the same & to place the government of the Province in the hands of some of undoubted loyalty and affection to their present Mats Did remove the said Capt: Nicholson, and made choice of Capt: Jacob Leisler with a Committee (who were also chosen by the people) to take into their hands the Care and Charge of the Governmt untill Their Mats Pleasure should be further known. Shortly after arrived their Mats Proclamation to Proclaim them King and Queen of England, France and Ireland, notice whereof was given to those of the former Councill, and to the Mayor and Aldrmen of the City to assist in proclaiming thereof with the proper ceremonies for that solemnity, who desired an hours time to consider of it, which time being expired and no complyance yielded, but on the contrary an aversion discovered thereto, The said Capt Leisler accompanyed with the Committee & most part of the Inhabitants, did with all the Demonstrations of Joy and affection they were capable of celebrate the same. Whereupon the Mayor and Aldermen were suspended and some persons confined, who were the most eminent in opposing Their Mats Interest and this Revolution, and some short time after this Their Mats Letter arrived Directed to Capt Francis Nicholson Esqr Lieut Governor of Their Mats Province of New York and in his absence, to such as for the time being do take care for the preservation of their Mats Peace, and Administring ye Laws in that Their Mats Province, Ordering such to take upon them the Place of Lieut Governor and Commander in Chief of the said Province, and to proclaim King William & Queen Mary King & Queen of England Scotland France and Ireland and Supreme Lord and Lady of the Province of New York, if not already done, which was accordingly performed. The Inhabitants of the said City and Province conceiving that by vertue of Their Mats said Letter, the said Capt Leisler was sufficiently Impowered to Receive the same and to act accordingly It gave them a generall satisfaction,whereupon the said LIEUT. GOV. LEISLER. 57 Committee were immediately dismissed and a Councill chosen by whose assistance Capt Leisler acts in the said Governmt pursuant to His Mats Order. The members of the former Government notwithstanding gave all the opposition they could to this Reformation & have created a ffaction in the said Province to the endangering ye loss thereof, since it happens at a time that we are under continuall alarms from the frequent attacks the French make upon our Frontiers, so that without the care and precaution aforesaid this Their Mats Province was in apparent hazard of being delivered up to the Canada Forces belonging to the French King, whereby Their present Mats most loyall protestant snbjects of this Province would have been -rendered miserable, equall to their fears, and this Province became a Colony of the French. And to that height of insolence was that disaffected Party growne, that in a riotous manner in the day time they besett and surrounded the sd:Capt: Leisler our Lievt. Govr. in the street treating:him with ill Language & threats & had undoubtedly done violence to his person, had they not been apprehensive of danger to themselves from the people, who immediately gathered together and rescued the Governor out of their hands, seizing some of the principall actors and Ringleaders in that Ryott and cominitting them to prison, and their ffriends and confederates sending them provisions to the prison in a superabundant and extraordinary manner, designedly to affront and insult the Governmnt: thereupon it was thought fit to order, that no provisions should be permitted to be brought them, and they should only be allowed ~Bread and water, but that severity was continued towards them only for two daies, and afterwards they had the Liberty to have what Provisions they pleased. This riotous Action of the Male-Contents occasioned a further Tumult of ill consequence to themselves for ye Country people upon a rumour that the Governmt was in danger by ye Rising of the disaffected party, flockt into the City armed in great numbers, and notwithstanding the endeavours of the Magistrats to appease them, they took the liberty (as is too usuall with an enraged multitude) to perpetrate revenge on those which were ye occasion 58 ~ ~ llB~$I~aAMISf STKATIO.N OF of their coming, Quartering themselves in their houses for two daies and committing divers Insolences upon them, much to the dissatisfaction of the Magistrates till they could persuade them to return in quiet to their houses, however it was thought requisite by the Governmre for the preventing such disorders for the future and to secure the publick peace, to detein severall of the disaf fected in Prison for a time, some whereof were since fined, but all ordered to be discharged from Prison upon paying their Fines and entering into Recognizance to be of good Behaviour for the future. The Fort and City are therefore now in a good posture wanting only Ammunition. The Commissions are called in from those of ye former Militia, who acted under Coll Dungan and Sr Edmond Andros, and other Commissions granted in the name of their present Matie to such as are well affected to their Maties Interest. Upon these our actings for the Securing Their Mats Interest in this Province and conserving the publick Peace our enemys have endeavoured all they can to misrepresent us and load us with Reproach, by terming our aforesaid proceedings a Dutcl, Plott, because indeed three quarter parts of the Inhabitants are descended from the Dutch & speak that lan,:uage, and they also threaten our ruine, if ever the Government come into their hands again. Which that it may not doe, and Their Maties most loyal and dutifull subjects in this province may reap ye benefit and blessing of this most happy Revolution, and not be made a Prey to most implacable and Insulting enemies on our Borders, who are ready to enter and devour us-humnbly Submitting ourselves to your Mats most Royall Will and Pleasure Endorsed, Memorial of the late occurences at New York LAEUT. O. LGO. LERsEo 59 BY THE LI E-T GOVERNOR & COU.NCELL &e Whereas I am finformed yt ye Books, records, and other Papers relating Queens County upon Long Island in ye possession of WTilliam Nicolls, Andrew Gibbs, Daniell Whitehead or Either of them the sd William Nicolls being Esteemed as Clerke or Register of ye CountyThese are in his Matie King Wym name to will and Require you to make diligent Enquiry for all Bookes, Records or other papers Relating to ye Courts of Judicature or any ways belonging or appartaining unto ye Tryalls by Law in sd County If in ye pogsession of ye abovenamed p'sons or any others whatsoever ye same to demand & receive, & in Case of Refusall by force to seize, compell & obtaine ye same & deliver unto Daniel Danton who is authorized Clerk or Register for ye sd County taking an Inventory & Receipt for ye same and in so doing this shall be sufficient Warrant, Given &c New York Jan. 7th 16.- JACOB LRESLnR, To Mr John Coe Sheriffe of Queens County on Long Island. SHERIFF PRETTY TO MILB3ORNE. Albany: 15: Jan;: 1 68-90 Mr. Milborn Yours Resed and returne you htarty tihantk:L for youre kindness. for those Comissions. I received PBua1: h:rle tiay are littell regarded at present, till such tnime ihaij see L.e- Ci t;r Leislear Comission or a Coppy from his Maj1 e theni thay shlaT hum bly submitt, till then thay shall Keepe what thay haue in there hands, for his Maje' Saruise-as you shall see ore at e a By what Capte Staats now sends downe of thie tranZsactions of whtat has bin don here, which if Tuder or Wu Nicolls, ware: inploijed to hantell laem. I question not but thaij would emty there pockits, and make some harts shake, pray delluer the inclosed to Mr D: Lanoij ald- I shall doe my best enders to get in the quitt Rents, and to enter 60 ADMINISTRATION OF upon the other soe soon as I can: I hope there Blud will not be allwayes: hott-in the mein time, patience, with my harty saruise presented unto you & all true friends I rest, &c. your Reall frend & Sarut RiCHd PRETTij. ye word to frend Clark is oysters. Endorsed, To Mr Jacob Milborne Secry: at ffort William in New Yorke. about ye begining of Apr' last past Ro: Livingston tould me that there was a p'sell of Rebels gon out of Holland into England, & the prince of orringe was the hed of them & he might see how got out a gaine, & should come to same end as.Mulmoth did: this I can testify. RICHd PRETTij. BY THE LIEUTT GOVERNR & COUNCILL &C. NEW YORK. Whereas Colonell Nicolaes Bayard of this County hath Comitted high Misdemeanora against his Maties Authority in this Province as appears by his hand & seale by writing Execrable Lyes & pernicious falsehoods These are in his Matie King Williams name to Will & require you to apprehend ye Body of said Bayard wheresoever he is to Be found & in what place soever he may Be suspected ye same to Breacke open or by any other violences make way to him in Case of resistance or Concealmt & his said body before me to Bear or Cause to be Brought & all whome shall oppose or any wise resist or Endeavor to Conceale him And all Officers Both Military & Civill are hereby Strictly required to aid & assist you therein as they will Answer ye Contrary at their utmost Perills, Given under my hand and seale at Fort William In New York January 17th 1689. JACOB LEISLER The same for Stephanus Van Cortlandt The same for Anthony Brockholdst The same for Pieter Jacobse Marius The same for William Nicolls The same for Robert Reed. LIEtrT. GWV. LEISLER. (61 COMMISSION TO, HOLD- A, COURT OF OYER: AND TERMINER. WILLIA by the grace of God of England, Scotland, france & Yreland &c King defendr of ye faith To Peter de Lanoy Esqr Judge of or Court of Oyer & terminer & Gen1 goall delivery Gerardus Beeckman Johannes vermilje John Hendrickse Bruyn Benjamin Blagge Hendrick Johnson John Spratt Cornelis Plevier & Johannis Provoost GREETING KNOW YEE that we have assigned you or any five of you whereof ye sd Peter de Lanoy Judge of or sd Court of Oyer & Terminer to be one to enquire by the Oath of Good & Lawfull men of our City & County of N York & by other ways manners and methods by wch the trueth may be ye Better Knowne as well within Libertyes as out of all mannors of treasons misprisons of treasons murthers homicides fellonyes Burglaries and all other Crimes offences & Injuries whatsoever & of their accessaries within sayd. City & County aforesd by whome soever or in what manner soever had done Perpetrated or Comitted & by whome to whome or with whome when in what manner & if how & of other articles and Circumstances aforesd and any thing; Concerning the same and ye sd treasons fellonyes and all other ye Prmisses for this time to hear try & determine According to ye Lawes of this our Province, the Lawes & Customs of or Kingdome of England And therefore Wee Comand you that you or any five of you whereof ye sd Peter De La Noy Judge of or Court of Oyer & Terminer & Gen11 Goall delivery to Be one on Wednesday next Being ye 22th day of January Instant to Be held at ye City hall of the said City & County of N York make diligent Enquiry unto ye Prmisses & all & singular ye said Prmisses to here try & determine in manner & forme aforesd so farr as it appurtaineth to Justice according to ye Lawes of this or Province & ye Lawes & Customes of or Kingdome of England Wee have therefore Comanded ye Sheriffe of or said City & County on ye sd 22 of day of January as aforesd to Cause to Come before You such and so many good & Lawfull Men of his Baylewicks as well without Libertyes as within by whome ye truth of things may be ye better knowne & Inquird. In testi 62 ADMNISTRATION OF _mony wnereof wee have caused ye seall of or said Province to Ble affixed att fort William the 18th day of January 1689 & in ye firsq yeare of or Reigne JACOB LEISLER 1- Here follows another Commission to hold a Court of Oyer and Terminer in Queens County on 29th Janly 1689. It is of similar tenor & date to the above & is addressed to Peter De La Noy Mathias Harvey, John Tredwell, Nathaniel Denton, Nathaniel Coole, John Townsend Senior & John Simmons Senior or any five of them. LEILER TO JACOB MELYN. Anno 1689: the 24th January in will: fort MoNs: JAcOB MALLINE-Yours by the pretended post peri is come to myne hands with the printed papers, for your brother which shall be send I give you many thanks for the charity you have towards me, that you receive no reports to any prejudice agt me, I have stopt peri in his returne home, and found myne letter to your Governor broke open & abused, I intend he must keep me here company for a while, therefore send one post of purpose that his letters may goe forward I have found amongst his letters severall seditious one which hes caused me to secure & confine Bayard, William Nicholls & the ferry mans wife Van Cor.nland & his wife have made their escape, the bearer Mr Elkona pembrock hes the coppy of some of their letters to whom I crave reference of what is past since he hes been present, & for the service of the Country undertakes this voyage to inform the honest well meaned people verbally what is passed I desire if you please the continuance of your intelligence Either to me or tkhe Mayer, wee are soe occupied by the wicked people that I must breake of and after myne respect remaine Your friend & servant JACOB L:ISLER LEUT. GOV. LEISLR. 63 COL. BAYARD'S PETITIONS. To the Honorable Jacob Leisler Esqr Lt governor of the province of New York & the Honble Council The Humble petition of Nicholas Bayard Humbly Sheweth —That the petitioner & Prisoner since this two days? has been taken with an extreme sickness in Body, & humbly craves your Honorable Commisiration, the Petitioner acknowledging his great Error in disgrading the authority which he humbly ownes & Craves pardon for-Praying that he may be releaved from his dismal detention, promising to behave himself from henceforth with all submission & perform Whatever your honours shall be pleased to adjudge against him, Praying that his Errors may be attributed depriving from his impatience & vents of his foolish passion, & therefore that the honours will be pleased to remit his fault at least by rising from this misserable Confinement. & the Petitioners as in duty bound shall Ever pray & remain your Honours Humble Servt. 24 Jan'y 1689-90. On the Indorsement was written The petition of Colonel Nicholas Bayard,Jany 24, 1689. Read the 26th Ibid. I. M. Cl. C. ouncil. To the Honorable Jacob Leisler Esqr Lieut Gouenor of the Province of New York & the Honbl Council The Humble Petition of Nicholas Bayard Humbly Sheweth, that the distressed Petitioner is Still continuing very sick in Body and to his great sorrow was heard of the Slaughters & Murders which the french and Indians of Cannida have lately committed at Schaneghtcde, but that which releaves the distressed Petitionr to the heart is that the Petitionr should be accused of being the occasion thereof-by writing of letters to Albany, for to create 64 ADMINISTRATION OF seditions, which some Malitious persons desighning the destruction of the Petitioner, undoubtedly has aspersed) for the petitioner has since his departure from Albany not wrote to any there but only to Mr Peter Schuyler & Mr Levinston, at his first comming down, the contents whereof, are no more but to thank them for their civilities & that the petitioner was forced to Abscond himself here Since at his landing, a State search was made for him, which Letters were sent by his Cousin Casper Teller, & one to His Brother Teller relating his private affairs, & to thank him and his family for the kindness received at the Petitioners being there, which is all that Petitioners has wrote to any persons whatsoever either in the County of Albany or Ulster, Your Petitioner therefore humbly Prays that the honors will not be pleased to give such credit to said aspersion, as to Cause the distressed weak, Prisoner, to be continued in Irons within this dismal confinement as the petitioner Keeper has by the Honors orders put the Petitionr, whereby he is Quite disabled to help himself & must unadoubtly Perish in this Condition unless Your Honors will be pleased to have commiseration of Your honours distressed Petitioner, And Since it has been Your honors pleasure to Recommend Your Petitioner to inform Your honours of the truth of his behavour at Albany last summer, the Petitioner shall therefore inform Your Honours, of the full and Sincere truth, as he will answer before his god, that he went up to Albany upon no other design, but to shun the trouble and hazard of being destroyed here, as your Petitioners was informed threatens were made & that during his abode in Albany aforesaid, he found all the Magistrates of that place or Such with whom Your Pettir conversed withall, upon all occasions to manifest their utmost Zeal for the Interest of our gracious Sovereigns Lord & Lady King William & Queen Mary & for the preservation of the peace, & Administring of Your Laws in Your said County but were of the oppinion as they Several times declared that they were not in any wise Subordinate to the City of New York (nor the power then exercised therein) but that government of that County, was only lodged within themselves, Untill their Maties pleasure should be known persuant to their Maties gracious Proclamation of the 14th of LIEUT. GOV. LEISLER. 65 February An Dom 1688 & Your Petitioners Acknowledge that he himself was also of the same opinion, and that he in private company with several of them has declared himself in that manner in which if your Petitioner has done amiss he humbly craves your honours pardon for; but that your Petitioner was cald to be a Member of their Court or made privy to the affairs of the Court or County more than he might hear was publick to others Private Persons, or was ever present in any of their Courts of Meetings (as your Petitioner is accused withall) is altogether a false aspersion, except only that Your Petitioner with Mr Stephanus Van Cortland were only sent for to enquire what they both would be willing to contribute or lend to the said County for the raising of some forces in defence of the said County, against any attempt of an enemy from Canada in which your petitioner expressed his Willingness and was thereupon without any further dismist & as your Petitioner was retired for Albany with no other in trust but as before expressed to which he calls god to witness, and would have also stayed there untill the arival of a Governor or some orders from our gracious Sovereigns-in answer to the Letters which your Petitioner in Conjunction with the Lient. Governor Nicholson & the Council had wrote to his Lordship Charles Earl of Shrewsberry, principal Secretary of State, & to the Honorable William Blathwait Esqr Secretary of the Plantations sent by the ship beaver, & with the said Lieut. Governor, with duplicates by some of the other Ships about the beginning of June last past, but the mortal Sickness of your Petitioner's son & other pressing occurrences necessitated Your Petitioners return to New York the place of his abode & finding that at Your Petitioner's Landing a strick Search was made for his person for what-reason, he knows not but was afraid that some hurt might befall him, he therefore ever since, absconded himself untill the arrival of their Majties Messinger Mr Jno Riggs when your Petitioner gave Notice to Mr Frederick Phillips of his being in town whereupon the said Mr. Phillips as being one of the late Council together with the said Riggs the same night of his arrival came to your Petitioners house & gave Your Petitioner the perusal of the subscriptions of the two Packets, which he declared were VOL. II. 5 66 ADMim'STRBATIO OF sen't by hin the said Riggs from White hall directed (to your Petitioners best remembrance) To our trusty and well beloved Captain Francis -Nicholson Esqr our Licut Govenor & Commander in Chiefe of our province of New York in America or in his absence to such as for the time being do take care for the keeping of the peace & administiring the Laws of our said province of New York in America; & whit hall certified that altho, your said Council (with the said L't Govenor Nicholson who was dec parted for England) had been hindered by otlher domestic troubles from officiating for some small time as a Council Yet since the Justices of the Peace by virtue of their Commission & their MatieS said proclamation having performed the same, that it was his oppinion that the said Packets in the absence of the saidd Francis Nicholson did belong to your Petitioners, with the rest of the said Council, as an answer to their said letters, by the Ship beaver, & by them to be communicated to the several Justices of the Peace, with further Promise as fromi Mr Stephanus Van Cortland, being also a member of said Council Should come oto town & the Council should neet, that he would deliver the said Packets to them & take a receipt for them for the same, with further assurances that he (lid not believe that C:aptain Leisler (as he termed your honour) would open to receive the said Packets, tho the same were tendered to him, but the next morning before the said Council could meet, Your Petitioner was informeed that the Packets were upon demand delivered to your honour, & your Petitioner must Confess that he has been so una happy, asto be of the same oppinion that the said Packets did not belong to your honour but to the said Council & Justices, in which your Petitioner was also strengthened by several letters from Boston By the oppinion of such few persons, as he said that time conversed withall, which has occasioned that your Petitioner in his letters to John West has most unadvisedly and in his foolish passion has altered his oppinion, in such severe and unbecoming expressions, to the disgrading of your honouls Authority, But your Petitioner never had the thoughts directly or indirectly to endemvour for to remove your honor's Authority, by any manner of force or with any the least danger of bloodshed, but was LIEUT. COVo LiI~SLEIL 67 reslve d to De passie and abscond hinself till further orders frem our gracious Sovereighn's Should arrive which your honours petit:ion' declare to be the very truth as he is ready to advere apon Oath & therefore hopes & most humbly prayes that your honours will not be pleased to attribute the petition' said unbecoming and disgrading expressions, otherwise, but as events of his.ofooish passion, neither that your honour will remember any of the Particular disjusts which heretofore have been between his honour the Govenor, & your distressed Prlssoner, but that your honour -will be graciously pleased to have compassion with your Petitioners Misserable condition, having had all this day a great fever upon -him,.lying in Irons ot able to help himself and destitute of all other aid or assistance in so much that your dis t;esed.prisoner must of necessity perish in this Calamity unleay your honRours will be pleased in Mercy to Consider his deplorable condition. Wherefore your distressed petitioner in all humble manner implores to your honours prayi.ng for your honours mercy m gri.tlously pardoning the Petitioners said -olly or at least not to suiffer your distressed rick prisoner to perlisi in this manner but to grant the saaid miserable Prisone r if ossib!e to be bailed or othe.X wVl.e^ such relief as his deplorable situation require to preserve t.iri fiom perishing in this Dismal. Confinement, the God of M'-ercy will be pleased to dispose your hon.ours for Mercy towards y^ur Pettiioner who is in duty bound shall ever pray & rem ains Your honours Most Humble Servant. BY THE LIEItJ GOVERNO1 &c. Whereas Capta Gerbrunt Claessen of Gemroenepa hath desyred my Liberty & Lycence to purchase of ye Indians a Certain parcell of Land lying & Being at Kigtawangh upon hudsons River within Dutchess County, being bounded on the West w t' A Now PtALanM, as8 ADMINISTRATION OF the Great River & ye land of Sarah Kierstede on ye North side by a livolet or run of Water on ye East side bounded with ye great hills on ye South side wth an arm of ye great River aforesd wch hath not yet been Legally purchased or bough of ye Indians: These may certify that ye Sd Gerbrunts Claesson hath hereby liberty & license to purchase of ye Indians ye said parcell of Land, provided it hath not been legally disposed of to any others & ye said purchase to Be made before some of his MatiesJustices of ye peace in ye Sd dutchess County or West Chester on or before ye first day of July next Ensuing ye date hereof And the Surveyor Generall or his Deputy are hereby Required to Survey the Said Tract of Lands to make a Report thereof into ye Secys Office for wch this shall Be his warrant. Dated In New Yorke at Fort William This 25th day of Jany. 1689. JAcOB LEISLER BY THE LIEUT GOVERNOR & COUNCILL &H. Whereas I am enformed that there is Severall Barrells of gun powder in ye Custody of Mr John Pell of Pelham within Westchester County These are to will & require you to make diligent Search and Enquiry for the same & what quantity you find to make a report unto mee foritwith. Given &c february 18t 1689. JACOB LEISLER. LEISLER TO GOV. TREAT. HONORABLE SIR N: york ffebruary 14th 1689. By these I am to informe your Honor of the insolencies of that part of this province namely Albany which is hightined & Improved by Captane Jonathan Bull & those under his command in subordinatione to such who terme themselves a Conventione, setting themselves up in defiance of his Maties Intrest, to the great abatement of his revenue & discouragement of such who pursue his orders & commands, and proclaiming him King of scotland & supreme Lord of this province who take care for preserving the peace & administering the lawes of this province which calls for immediate redress, to that purpose I advise your LIEUT GOV. LEISLER. 69 Hionol of that forthwith Mr fitch & such who are acquainted with our proceedings in his Maties King williams behalfe may conveen at such place within your Collony as shall to your discretione seeme meet without delay, the kings interest in this province depending solly upon the stating of such articles as shall be presented by three persons who will receive full power to conclude what shall be requisite concerning this affaire, whereupon such resolutiones will be taken & presented with that vigour & faithfullness that (by Gods blessing) I doubt not but will discover who are the faithfull subjects, & those that are otherwayes, to evince which I shall all wayes approve my selfe your Honors humble servant &c God willing the delegation may be at Milford upon Thursday next. * THEO T SAE T ME. Fort William Feb. 15th 165 9. HoN be Sr-Since our other, the sad news of the French wth their Indians have killed most of the Inhabitants of Schanectede, burnt their houses and carryed their provisions, to a greater number as is to be feared, who are encouraged by that convention & Colonel Bayard's faction, who haue asserted the Commissioners of Sr Edmund Andross to remaine in full force; the consequence thereof is verry dangerous, for that King James and they espouse one cause, but when the persons advised of arrive [toj you wch may be some dayes longer than was before expressed, supposing Friday next it will be further dilated, hoping care will be taken that all convenient dispatch may be offered unto them, desiring the Lord to give us suitable supplyes of his assistance to doe our duty in this sad occasion and that all evil members may be discovered and accordingly censured With due respects I am Sr yor Honors Humble Servt Superscribed JACOB LEIsILER. To the Honble Robert Treat Esquire Governr of His Maties Colony of Connecticutt,'or their Maties Service These 70 ADIMIaSTiATION OF BY THE LIELU GOIRNO1 &ca. Whereas John Jennings inhabitant in ye County of Westchester hatL Spoken certaine words against the Title and dignity of o0 Gracious Soveraigne King William These are in is Uaties name to Will & require you to apprehend the Body of said John Jennings the same forthwith to bring before me and my Councill to answer what shall be objected against him and for so doing tlis shall be your sufficient warrant. Given &ec this 14th day of ffebruary Anno 689o JACOB3 LEISLE;a There is another warrant to apprehend Samuel Palmer and Thomas Bedient of same County also for having spoken contemptuously of the Government. Dated 18 feb 1689, BY THE LIEUT GOaER'iNOR &a. Whereas Severall desaffcted prsons have augmented sthrengned & advanced ye Interest of King James as much as in them Lyes contrary to thei Bounden duty & allegiance due to o' Sovere gne Lord King William his Sovereigne Tittle Crowne & Dignity These are in his atis Name to wil & require you to Secure ye Body of Collonel Thomas Dongan wth a Safeguard wth in his owne howse & to apprehend Coilonel Thomas Willet CaptThomas hicks Daniell Whitrhead & Edward Antill ye- s' Persons forthwth to Convey unto me hither. Given &c. this 156l Day of feby Ao 1689. JAcoB Li.:XSLtL To ye Civill & Military Officers & Sherife for the Queens County upon Long Island. LIEU.T GOV. u I7LEsL. 71 Fort Williiai Februry 15. 1689 GENT.LEMEN -Whereas ye ffrench have surprized Schanegtade, & killed & taken Prisonners the most of Their IMatie Subjects burning & destroying ye sd Place: and fearing too great a Correspondency hath bean maintained between ye d ffrensch & disaffected P'sons amongst us. These are in his Maties Name to will & require you to secure all Such Persons who are resputed Papists or Do any wise despise or reflect against this Governmt or hold or maintaine any Comissions from the Late Governrs Colo Thomas Donegan or Sr Edmund Andros by Virtue of their Authority derived from King James the second & ye same Safely to Convey to mee forthwth Given under My hand & seale this 15th ffeby 1689 and i y' first yeare of Their Matic8 Reigne. JAOmB LESLEaR To the Officers Military & Civill & y Sheriffe of the County of Westc}hester Ye same to Richmond County ye same to ye County of Suffolk Ye same to Kings County Ye same to ye Counrty of East Jersey Ye same to Queens County BY THE LIE' GOBVERNOR &Pi COUNCILL a. Whereas ye ffrench have destroyed the Inhabitants & their howses at Shanegtade Bearing away Provisions. & other spoyles wth them wch sharply alarms that Post of albany although wee doubt not (by God's Providence & ye numbers upon ye Place) to secure the same agst whatsoever f~rces of ye s:t french Shall adventure to attack it Yet acordaig to our bounden duty to God ye Kings Interest & ye Safety & prservacfn. of ye good People cf this Province;These are in his matetis King WiT Naame to will and require you forthwiih (to take Measures as to you shall seem meet) for raisina fifety men wthin your County for ye sd Service & Expe 72 AD1MINISTRATION OF dic6n vpon what teimes soever shall Be agreed on ye same to dispeed to ye fort Wm in N. Yorke where all due Care shall be taken & Encouragemt given for their further procedure & for your assistance herein have sent Mr Jacob Millborne that you may advise & Conclude what shall most Conduce to the Ends aforesd Given &c. febY 16. 1689 JACOB LEISLER To Major Gerardus Beeckman & others ye Military & Civill Officersfor Kings County upon Long Island. One of the same tenor was sent to Major Thomas Lawrence and others ye Military & Civill Officers of Queens County upon Long Island & Mr Samuel Edsall was sent thither for that Purpose. WM. MILBORNE TO HIS BROTHER. Boston Febr 17th 1689. DEAR Buo.-This by Capt Lodowick who was very furiously Attacked by Mr Pembrooke whose businesse I am very well satisfied was the sole occasion of his comming here ye People ready to assault him as a Papist and Enemy to or Charter, I was severall times in Compa wth him & himselfe hath bin pleased to be pretty plain & if he hath done no more with you, than [he has] done here I suppose he may well justify himselfe or father had a venerable respect for Mr Clarkson a Dog of whom should have respect this I wish being assured that he was scandalized in severall particulars whilst here but Manum de tabula We are very sick wth ye Small pox blessed be God & family in health who all present due respects to you you shall heare by Walker & by Lodowick you may understand particulars Sr Edmond & Company sayled away ye 14th instant In Bark in ye Mehitabel & or messenger 3 dayes before in Marten I am yr affct Bror to serve &c.Addressed WM MILLBORNE To Mr Jacob Millborne In New Yorke p. Capt Lodowick C D G. IEUT. GOV. LEISLER. 73 BY THE LIEVT GOVERNR & COUNCILL &c. These are in His Maties name to will and require you Major Hendrick Coyler to give order to ye severall Captns of Their Respective CompS under your Comnand and forthwth to draw up ye same & make choice of one tenth person thereout for his Maties service for ye expedicon of Albany ye same to send forthwth to this Fort for so doing this shall be your sufficient Warrant. Given under my hand & scale &c 18th Feby 1689 JACOB LEISLER. WRIT FOR THE ELECTION OF REPRESENTATIVES. By the Leu. Governr &c. Whereas, there is a great necessity, to settle ye affaires of this province, in a more especiall manner than hither to hath been Thought requisite and ye attacks of ye French at Schanectade calling for more than ordinary succours These are in their majties king williams name to will & require you to elect &make choice of too proper & fit persons to repaire Fortwith to this city empouring them as your representatives to consult debate & conclude, all such matters and things as shall be thought necessary for ye supply of this Governmt in this present conjuncture of which you are not to faile as you will answer ye same at your perill Given under my hand & scale this 20th of Febry 1689 in ye second yeare of his Majties reigne JACOB LEISLER To the military & civill officers of and ye rest of ye Inhabitants of the city & county of N. Yorck NoTE. There is among the MSS another writ in the above terms dated 8th Aprill 1690, addressed to the same, to which is added a memorandum in these words: "Sent to ye severall counties of ye same tenor.s 74 ADMINISTRATION OF BY THE LIEV'T GOVRERNS ca. Whereas severall disaffected persons have augmented strengtned & advanced Inerest of y Late King Jam es as much as in them Leyes Contrary to their Bounden duty & allegiance due to Or sovereigne Lord King William his s$vereignty title Crowne & d.tl.nity. These are in his Matice name to xwill & require you to apprehend the body. of Coil. thomas dongan steph van Cortiand antho Brockholes & mathew plowman, with all their accomplices wheeresoever the are to be found ant in what place they:rmay be suspected-the same to Breake open or'by any other violences make way to them in case of resistance or concealm't & their sd bodys before mee and my Councill to bear or cause to be brought, and all whome shall opose or any wayes resist or endeavour to Conceale them and all officers both Military & civillare hereby strictly required to aid & assist ynu therein as they will answer ye Contrary at their utmost peril.- Given &e New York February 21 1689. JXnB LnExsIER. The same to apprehend Richard Townly Matthew Plowman Emmet COIIMMISSION TO A4ESS'R VWJERBELYE, B3LAGGE & MILBO RN. AS fBELEG-:ATTES TO CONNECTICUT. Newv York, ffcbuary t1he 2ast I68.i IoNble Si —The bearers Mr Johannes Verm:ilye Benja Blagge and Jacob Milborne, are sent to your Honor and the rest of the Gent'~ of your governmt to treat wt': all concerning His MaticS interest & the wellfare of his Colonyes, to whom please to give full credence; they bein:r fully empowered to conclude tw shall be thought needfull in this conjuncture of aff ires, to whonme you are referred for particulars of what hath passed here, and how we aaue proceeded, desiring the Lord to giue us all wisilome, grace and understanding to do o dutyes as shall contribute to his glorious ends anl or happ nesse ls the prayer of 0or Honors H:unmble Servant, Superscribed JAis LE:SnLuo To th e Hon,u Robert Treat Esq Governor of His Matesc Colony of Conneaticutt LIEUTo GOV.o EIEXSLE- 75 PROPOSAiS 0iN T AHE PART OF LEISLER TO CO-NNECTICUT. hereas wee underwritten are appointed by Capt" Jacob Leisler Licut Governor oi'the Provinc.e of Ne'w'York & Councill to treat vwL, the ionlble -ih (overnor and oth!er Geatl.n in authority over his )at i, Colony of Connecticut conceYrnng what may be. necessary and of imp ort ior his Maies Service tihe pea.ce and safety of New York Governmat and the welfare of the aforesaid colony Wee in pursuance of Commission to us, granted for the pu:poses aforesaidt dated February 20tih 1689, and having a deep sence of the danger WCh Albany and the adjacent parts,re in, through the French and others their confederates now threatUning us, present to yor HonwiS consideracon as followeth That what number of men were sent from this governmt (or Alall hereafter be under their notice) unto Albany aforesaid, may receive orders from this Authority to their chief officers to comply with, and observed such methods anAd directions as shall be agreed on between the sd Lieut Governor and Councill or their Deputyes, and the Governor and Magistracy of this Colony having no especiall regard to those o. the Convencon at Albany but what shall be in subordinacon to the authority & power before m:nconed. That thie'Honbie Governo' &c would please to take into their consideracon what numbers of men may be requisite for maintaining that post, how long to remai e there, and ye method of defraying that charge. If Boston or Maassachusets Colony ought not. to be consulted herein, and what may be expected on their part. Or if what immediate necessity calls for, ought not first be consulted and proper resolucons to be made thereupon as the case requires. And that persons be appointetd forthwith, to treat wtha the confederate Nacons of Indians, and make a true state of the case between us, to corroborate and influence them in their perseverance against he French and Indian Enem yes by the usuall manner cf presents and such other moles as are most apt and suitable for securinfg Post &c. Dated in New Haven Jo1ANNES Ea.s'V-_RMELY February 24, 1689o B^N-JAn BILAGGEx JACOn MILLBORNE. 76 ADMINISTRATION OF * SECY ALLYN'S ANSWER ITO Tii.E ABOVE. GENTn-In answer to your paper of proposalls we say that or sending of Captn Bull and the souldiers under his Command to Albany was occasioned by Capt Leisler's declaring he could not, as matters were then circumstanced, afoard them reliefe, and the people there with the five nations, earnestly requesting it of vs, & or neighbours the Comrs of the United Collynys aduising vs to it & assisting us therein, was for the better Securing of the place and those parts for there Maties interest, & preseruation of his subjects there against the French & papists & other his Maties Enymies that might Inuade or attack them That being then ignorant of any factions or divisions among the Inhabitants there or between New Yorke and them (the contrary whereof) we understand now by your discours to our sorrow, for prevention of further mischeife, we doe not think orSelves arther impowered at present then earnestly to intreat & heartily to aduise, that the Hond Captaine Leisler and the Government at New Yorke in present power would take the most likely, hopefull and peaceable measures for a right understanding between themselves and the Albanians, for the Safety of the place & people there, least the contrary proue totally destructive to them, as it did at Shenegdege, and considering those at Albany in present power, are persons well acquainted with the manners of the fiue Nations, and greatly interested in them, We aduise that as little alteration or interruption be giuen to those in authority there as may be, yea we could wish that if it be thought meet, that onely such as papists (if any there be) be the onely persons remoued out of the government, for should the fiue nations be disgusted at it, it may proue inconvenient and deeply prejudicial to the publique peace of his Maties Subjects in this Country. We desire you to send up your 120 souldiers to Albany that you say are ready for that seruice, for our occasions are such, that we must of necessity call or souldiers home speadily-as to the number of Men that shall be necessary for the defence of Albany, it is not proper for us to determine yourselves, when you haue considered the danger that may be LIEUT. GOV. LEISLER. 77 &c. You will be able best to deside that Case & [it- lyes in your prouince to doe it, not ours As to the Massachusetts aduice in this momentous case, we are free it may be taken, but it is your worke to obtayne it. We in what is aboue giue you or aduice in reffrence to these matters, which at prsent may be sufficient. As to the Treaty with the fiue nations & a further present to be bestowed upon them, for orSelves, we haue so lately way moued towards them, that or opinion is, that it is not convenient for vs to appeare in it, but if yourselves see reason to do something that way for your owne accot being not concerned in the former, we leaue to your wisdomes to act therein, according to ye order & instructions in the Kings letter. We pray the God of peace to direct you & vs into councells of peace, that or liues and liberties & the protestant religion, which is and ought to be most deare to vs, may not become a pray to or French & pagan Enemies. pr order of the Governour & councell present Signed JOHN ALLYN Sec. Dated in New Hauen Feb 23. 1689 POSTSCRIPT. Gentn hauing seen his Maatie3 letters, in your hands, we do not see but the Albanians may find sufficient reason to comply with you in the same, when they shall receive due information therein. pr order J. A. S. These for the Genta Commissionated by Capt Leisler of New Yorke Comander in Chiefe. THE Lt GOV. & COUNCIL OF N. YORK TO THE GOV. OF CONNECTICU T. By the Lievt Governor & Councill &'1 Whereas Mr Johannes Virmiley Benjamin Blagg & Jacob Millborne were Impowered to treat witnh ti e Governor & the rest of the Gentleen in authority within his Ma'es collony of Connecti 78 ADMIXISTRPATION OF cutt and the sd persones having bbeen with them & made proposalls (whbich we have seen) for his Maties interest & the safety of those provinces wkhich have not been either friendly neighborly or duly answered, but to the contrary with coldness contempt & disdaine and furt her that the sd Governor & magistrates have abetted encouraged &. encreased the rebellion of a certain number of people at Albany within this province by ordering i:.ei-r iorces sent thither to observe the directione of the sd rebells named a conventione & wi'll not redress us (although it was desired) by an order to forbidd t-heir further proceedings As also that wee are well assured the same is supported more especially by John Alan Secretary of that Collony who hath conjoyned with sir Edmond KAsdross & his'wicked Councill in August 1688 3mo:,; traitorously to levy sumes of money upon his Nates Liege subjects by an arbitrary & illegal Commissione from the late King James & other aggrievances to our great prejudice & the confusione as well as coAtempt of his Maties governrnmelt in this province. wee the Lievt Governor & Councill doe hereby declare the sd Governor & magistrates of Connecticatt afores'to be encouragers abetters aiders & upholders of the sI rebellione & disobedience, and unless they immediately controull the s] ordersc to observe the sd Conventione, those forces so belonging to them at Albany shall be esteemed & deemed enimies unto the'peace of our Sov. Lord the King & the welfare of the province which are to be treated accordingly,And that wee doe expect the s( John Allan shall be secured in order to be proceeded ag.ainst for his traitorous offence which we doe hereby engage to make out & evince whenever the Governor & magistracy of Connecticott shall advertise us having herewith sent a coppy of his fact committed da.ted,;l ffort william in New york March first 1689 & in the second year of his Matiei kRei. eo A. speedy answer hereof is expected befYrete t' ship depart this now lying in yo1 Province not ours By order of the Governor & Councill Superscribed To JAcoB MILBORN CLo Cone.'The HOenbie Rober Treat Governa of Connecticutt LXEUTo COVo LEISIERo?9 THE G0 &; COUNCIL OF CONNECTICUT TO THE LT. GOV. AND COUNCIL OF NEW YORK IN ANSWER TO THE PtECEDIN G. IHartford March 5th 1689-90 GEL'NTjL,1 —We haue receiued & perused your angry letter, stufed with unjust collumniateing charges, as if we treated you att New Hiauen with contempt & disdayne, as when itt was don with all imaginable candor & amity & wil all due obseruance to his Majesties interest in these parts of America, utterly abhorriigh the thought of abetting any Rebells & did wth all integrity of spirrit to our greate cost and charge, send comission"S last summerr to york and souldiers to countenance King Wins & the protestant interest; and when you was nott [in] a capassity as wee were informed, to send men to Albany to defend his Majisties interest & to secure his good subjects there against the comon Enemy, being ignorant of any diuissions att the entring uppon that designe & much urged and solicited by the people there and the fue nations, as well as the Comissioners of Boston and Plymouth to afford assistance to them, wee fully informed your Com- att New Hauen, that wee apprehend itt most conduceable to the peace of the country and the Kings interest, that such men should be continued in place att Albany that may best maintaine a good correspondence with the Moehauks & other fower nations in an.ity with the English, which should be preferred before all anraumossityes in this critticall juncture, and aduised you all to moderation and good compliance. Gentlemr- we cannott butt judge it ingrattitude in a verry high degree to heap upp such unjust charges upon us for all our expence of money & blood in defending the Kings subjects, and what you intend by so ill requiteing your Iouing neighbours, who for fidellity and duty to our gracious soueraign King W"n our actions will demonstrate to be no ways inferiour to our neighbours round aboute us, as to our motions att Albany, our Comiss- to Capt Bull, & our late & prsent aduise to the gentlema of Albany will vindicate us both before God & our King; our aduise to them hath been nott to contend, but to submitt to the present power in the prouince of New Yorke & to unite as one man to oppose the comon enemT 80 ADMINISTRATION OF As to what you charge upon Mr Allyn,'you charge upon all the gentlemen of that councill, and he is. ready to answer att all times what you please to lay to his charge. Gentlemn wee will nott now inlarge yow refleckL upon your letters to us, & then we shall need to say no more to yow aboute it, butt remaine yowr neighbours the Gouernr & Cowncill of Connecticott Pr order. Signed JOHN ALLYN Secy. The Honord Capt. Jacob Leishler Comander in Chiefe in New Yorke prouince Forte William, this [From Mortgage Book I. Co. clerk's off Albany] At a Convention of ye Mayr Aldermen Commonalty Justices of ye Peace and Military officers of ye Citty and County of A lbany on ye first day of August and ye first year of ye Reign of our Souveraign Lord & Lady William & Mary King & queen of Engl: france & Ireland &c 1689 Present pr Schuyler Mayr David Schuyler Dirk Wessels Recr Reynier Barentse J. Wendel Ev. Banker Lievs Van Schaick J. Beekman J. Bleeker Jochim Staets Jan Lansing Jan Abel Albt Ryckman C. Marte gerritse kil: v: Renselaer Resolved that all public affares for the Preservation of there Majts Intreest in this Citty be managed by ye Mayr aldermen Justices of ye Peace Commission officers and assistants of this Citty and County, untill such time as orders shall come from there most Sacred Majes William & Mary king & queen of Engld fi: & Irland & Defenders of y' faith Resolved since t'here is news of warr between England & France yt ye gentl now mett at this Convention doe each bring LIEUT. GOV. LEISLER. 81 a gunn with lb of Pouder and Bale equivalent to be hung up in ye church in ye space of three days & yt ye Traders and oyr Inhabitants be Perswaded to doe ye same to make up ye number of 50 to be made use off upon occasion That ye Troopers bring 200 Slabbs from ye mill of wynant gerritse to make a Point behinde David Schuylers WARRANT TO FETCH LAFLEUR &e FROM SARACHITOGE. Present. Pr Schuyler D Wessels J. Wendel Lev. V Schaick D. Schuyler J Bleeker Albrt Ryckman Evert Banker J. Abeel Capt Sharpe Whereas itt is thought Convenient yt at this Juncture of time the french yt live towards Sarachtoge shall be Removed from thence to Remoove all suspicion which People now have, It is therefore ye opinion of ye Justices of ye Peace of this County yt Lafleur and Villeroy & de la fortune three frenchmen that live to ye northward of this Citty towards ye Stilwater & Sarachtoge be forthwith brought hither and Examined, anent such Transactions of Keeping Correspondence And Conveying letters to yO french at Canida. Yow are therefore hereby Required in his Majisties Name forthwith to Repare to Sarachtoge and bring ye said Lafleur, Villeroy and delafortune here to Albany before his Majisties Justices of ye Peace to be Examined & treated as ye Exigency of ye Case Shall Require in doeing whereof this shall be ye Sufficient Warrant and all persons are hereby Required to be aiding and assisting to yw Actum in Albany the first day of August 1689. The 3d dito Lafleur, Villeroy, & Francois three french men from Sarachtoge being sent for to be examined concerning keeping a Correspondence with them of Canida upon which was Resolved To Confine VOL. II. 6 82 ADMINISTRATION OF la fleur to ye Chamber of arnout Cornelise till ye witnesses come from Sarachtoge to be further examind And yt Villeroy stay in Toune till further order ATT A CONVENTION &c. Albany 5th day of August 1689 Present as before Upon a Rumor brougt to day by four Skachkook Indians that an army of French & Indians were Seen on this Side of ye Lakes Leift Robt Sanders was sent thither wth 17 men to make Discovery, which was found to be false Whereas we are Informed upon oath thatt Anthony Lespinard John Van Loon Renne Poupor alias Lafleur and Villeroy foure frenchmen have last winter endevored to entice some souldiers of his Majes garrison of Albany to Runn away to Canida & Desert his Majts service by Professing to furnish them with Provisions Ammunition, make them sleds shoos & all oyr necessaries for their journey, by all which means they wholly Designed to weaken ye force of this Place, & undoubtedly by yt means of such souldiers goeing to Canida Convey letters & keep some private Correspondence with the french there which hath long been suspected It is therefore thought fitt by ye magistrates of ye Citty of Albany Justices of ye Peace & militia officers of ye sd County who considering how dangerous such suspected p'sones are in this juncture of time yt ye sd antho Lespinard John Van Loon Renne Poupard and Villeroy be secured in his Majts fort at albany till further order and till such time The Bussinesse can be further Inspected and Examined, actum in albany ye 5th of aug. 1689 By ord of ye Magestr: of alb Justices of ye Peace & Military officers &c ROBERT LIVINGSTON Clk Antho Lespinard haveing heard ye Depositions read in open court Confesses yt ye sd John Sage & William Boyen came to him for bread and for french money to goe to Canida but advised them to ye Contrary yt they should not goe to Canida for it was a very Poor Place & shortly after he went to Boston LIEUT. GOV. LESLIER. 83 John Van Loon Confesses yt he knew somewhat of there Design but advised them not to goe, for when he made an ax for John Sage and when he saw Wm Boyen come back again from Sarachtoge & asked for John Sage at his house, then he see some Rogguerey in there mind and yt they had concluded to Runn away & further yt he told majrs Baxter yt John Sage Designed to Run away Villeroy haveing heard ye Depositions of Wm Boyen and Cornelia Vroman read in open Court said yt John Sage Desired him to make a paire of snow shoes last winter but he Replyed had no leather, who told him to take barke of Trees yet he Promised to make ye Sd John Sage a pare but knew not of any Design he had of running away. Item yt Will: Boyen asked him at Sarachtoge for ye snow shoos who replyed he had no time to make them, but when he -was removed to his little house he would may be make them Wherupon Mathys said doe not make them, who knows what ill Design they may have may be they will Runn away & then ye will come into a Primmenary Lafleur haveing hear e d y Depositions Read in open Court sd yt a Souldier called John Sage spoke to him for a canoe to goe to Canida withall last fall, and whether he could procure such a one upon which Lafleur Replyed upon what Condition he went and whether he would get a passe ye sd Sage answered he would get a Passe of Majr Baxter then Lafleur replyed there may be probably a Canoe to be had, and further ye sd Sage met ye sd Lafleur a Pretty while after here in ye street in Albany who asked Lafleur if he had been mindefull of what he had spoke to him, & whether he could not procure or make him a slee since it was to late for a Canoe, & also whether he had Bread for him, whereupon Lafleur said no, and whether la Sage had gott a Passe he spoke of, for without yt he would neither help him to slee Bread nor nothing else nor not see him Passe by his house. Item yt ye Sd Wm Boyen had discourse with De Chene at his house att ye still water & yt La Sage had sent a kitte to Dechene. ga4 PADMIINISTRATION OF By the Justices of ye Peace of ye Citty ~ County of Albany A PROCLAMATION. Whereas we are credibly informed yt diverse persones upon ye late news of ye approach of ye french and there Indians are makeing Preparation to Transport themselfs out of this County by which means and bad Example of such Timerous and Cowardly People others will be Discouraged to stay and Defend there Majts Intrest in this Frontier part of y6 Province, and Forasmuch there is no setled government for ye pjsent in this Province, and that thereby it is a duty Incumbent upon us to Prevent any Danger and Inconvenience yt might happen ye Inhabitants of our County wh may arise by suffering men to Depart yt are able to do there Majts service if any attempt should be made wee Therefore doe hereby Declare That no Person or Persones (except masters of sloops & Boats) being fit & able to bear arms who have been setled or liveing in this County for these six monthes last past shall in ye space of three monthes Presume to Depart or absent themselfs out of this County of albany whither they are under ye Roll or List of ye Respective Captns or not without a Passe from one Justice of ye Peace of this County upon ye Penalty to be Esteemed Pursued & followed after as fugitives Cowards Runnaways & Vagabonds, & as such to be Prosecuted by ye utmost Severity of ye Law, & yt all People take notice thereof accordingly, given at ye Cetty hall of Albany ye 7th day of august 1689 in ye first year of there Majts ReignThe 10th day of august 1689 A Peticon of ye wife of Villeray Delivered to ye Court whereby she Prays yt her husband may be released from his Confinemt or at least to be sett free upon security to answer when he shall be called for who being brougt before ye Court Insists much for his Releasement & Tenders P van wriaglum & Dirk vanderheyden for his security The Court doe accept of ye sd Securities and that they give Bonde of one hundred Pounds yt Villeray shall be forthcomeing when Demanded LIEUT. GOV. LEISLER. 85 The 13th day of august 1689 A Peticon of Antho Lespinard Jan Van Loon and Lafleur being read whereby they request that there Bussiness may be inspected into & examind that they may make there Defence & so be cleard if Innocent Else Punished if guilty. Upon which it was considered by ye Magistrates Justices of the Peace Commission officers & Common Council yt ye sd Three Prisoners be bayled out of ye fort giving security each one hundred Pounds to answer when they shall be called, Provided they doe not goe above ye Citty of albany til such time ye Case be Decided At a Convention &c albany ye 21 of august 1689 Present P. Schuyler Mayr. Reynier Barentse D. Wessells Recordr Ev. Banker J Wendel Is: Verplank J Bleeker Joh. Beekman J Lansing J Mingael Dav. Schuyler Capt Jochim Statets albt Ryckman Rt Sanders Resolved to acquaint ye Inhabitants of ye County ye news yt we received of Col Pynchen That Pemmaquid was taken by ye Indians and french 45 People kild& Taken-also that there should be a ship be come to Quebek of ye french with news of wars Between Engld & france & therefore nothing can be Expected but yt ye french will doe all ye mischieffe they can to this governmt & therefore every one to be upon there guarde & take care they be not surprized Mr. Wessells and Reynier Barentse were Desyned to Communicate this to the farmers of kinderhook & Claverack-Capt Wendel &John Lansing the People above-Richd Pretty & Evert Banker at Skenechtady & Canastagiorne. The 24th day of august 1689 Resolved that ye Inhabitants of ye County be Informed of ye alarm which was last night at ye green Bush occasioned by some 86 ADMINISTRATION OF Malitious Persones fyreing of severall gunns wth Baale throw ye Door and house of John Witment which was done by letters accordingly The 28th of august 1689 Resolved yt Barent Gerritse of Bethlehem who is suspected to have a hand in ye late disturbance yt was at Green Bush, or leat Privy to it yt he give 50~ security to answer when he shall be called for to be Examined about yt Bussinesse ANSWER OF THE MAGISTRATES AND JUSTICES OF THE PEACE TO THE ONNONDAGE AMBASSADOR WHO IS SENT FROM THE ONNONDAGES WITH THE NEWS FROM CANADA. [Translation.] Albany, ye 28 Augusti 1689. 1. We heartily thank the Brethren for the news they send us from Canada, though we have received the news by the Islands of the great victory the English obtained over the French in burning and sinking sixteen big, ships and capturing 12 others, each ship being of 60 guns and 400 men; which captured ships the English convey home as you do your prisoners; and therefore our vessels are so long delayed coming because they meet french men of war and fight with them. 2. We lament the death of the brave warriors who were slain in the last battle with the french above mont Royall but rejoice at the great victory gained by you over them, which we recommend you to follow up and not be imposed on by the idle and nonsensical speeches of the Governor of Canada and not to trust any of his ambassadors, for you have experienced his falsehood when he kidnapped so many of your warriors, and promised last harvest to Canadgegai that they should return in summer; but we hear that 5 ships have come but do not hear of one Indian in them. 3. We hope the Brothers will follow up their victory without delay as we perceive the Governor of Canada is now in distress, and would be very glad that you should now make some delay, that he may ship his bait again to cheat the Brothers. Have therefore a keen open eye on the motions of the French and warn us, LIEUT. GOV. LEISLER. 87 as we shall warn you; and we hope to see within 30 or 40 days some of the Sachems and Chief Warriors here whose feet shall be well greased. Pr order ROBt LIVINGSTON. The first day of Sepr 1689. Harme Janse Van Bommel brings news yt our Indians have taken 5 Praying Canida Indians upon ye Lake who were bound hither to doe mischeeffe, & yt severall french were seen upon ye Lake Upon which Capt wendel & 6 men were ordered to goe to Sarachtoge to examine sd 5 Indians & to make enquiry of affares there. Att a Meeting of the Mayr Aldermen and Justices of ye Peace of ye Citty and County of Albany ye 2d Day of Sept Ao 1689 Present P. Schuyler Mayr Albt Ryckman Dirk Wessels Recdr David Schuyler John Wendel Kilian Van Rensselaer Jan Janse Bleeker C. Marte Gerritse The Maquase Desyre by arnouts Letter that the Magistrates of Albany and Shinnechtady would be pleased to assist them with Two or three pare of horses & 5 or 6 men to Ride the heaviest Stockadoes for there new Castle of Tionondage which they remove an English mile higher up & they will pay for it in due time Which Request ye Court are willing to Comply withall to shew there good Inclination and true friendship they bear to ye sd nation have Consented that three pare of horses & six men goe thither Vizt of ye Troopers Jacob Lockermans of Capt Bleekers Company Dirk albertse Bradt & Wn hendrickse who did voluntarily p'sent there service The Patroon a horse Capt Gerritse a horse 88 ADMIINISTRATION OF Off Capt Wendells CompY hendrick!gerritse & Cornelis Slingerlant; & hans Cross wth 2 horses. Albany ye 3d of Sept 1689 Resolved by ye Civill & Military officers of ye Citty & County yt ye Bastions & Curtaines about the Citty be made & Repaired with al speed by ye Several Divisions of ye Companies & yt ye gates be Repaired; And yt To morrow there be a full Convention Att a Convention &c at ye Citty Hall ye 4th day of Septembr in ye First year of ye Reign of our Souveraign Lord and Lady King William and Queen Mary of Engl France & Ireland &a Defenders of ye Faith Ao 1689. Present P. Schuyler Mayr Dirk Teunise Dirk Wessels Recdr Capt Mar. Gerritse Justices Capt John Wendel Capt Sander glen ) Capt Jan Janse Bleeker Capt Gerrit Teunise Jan Lansing Lieut Evert d Ridder David Schuyler Lieut Jan van Eps Albt Ryckman Ens. Joh: Sanders Joh: Abeel ) Evert Banker T Assistents Isak Verplank i Joh: Beekman ) Resolved Since there is such Eminent Danger Threatened by ye French of Canida and there Praying Indians to come into this County to kill and Destroy there Majes Subjects that there be Immediately An Express sent doune to Capt Leysler and ye Rest of ye Militia officers of ye Citty and County of New Yorke for assistance of one hundred men or more for ye secureing of there Majes Fort and ye out Plantations of this County as also a Recruite of six hundred weight of Pouder and foure hundred Bale Vizt 200 Two Pounders and 200 four Pounders with some match & one hundred hand granadoes out of there Majes Stores and Two hundred Pounds out of there Majes Revenue which we understand is dayly collected by them for to employ ye Maquase and oyr LIEUT. COV. ISLESR. 89 Indians in there Majes service for ye Securing ye frontier Parts of this County from any Incursions of sd Indians -or French. Resolved yt ye floor of ye Stone Point in ye fort be Raised with new Planks and Timber and ye Portholes altered & made fitt for Defence. Upon ye news yt three People should be kild at Bartel Yromans at Sarachtoge by ye Indians Resolved by ye Convention yt Leift Jochim Staets forwith goe with ten men to Sarachtoge to see how ye matter is, & bring us an accompt with ye first & yt he Cito send a Post hither with ye tideings. Resolved by ye Convention yt Robt Sanders & Eghbert Teunise forthwith goe to Sarachtoge to lye there till further order, whither any mischeefe be done there or nott, & yt they goe themselfs with sd Indians to Sarachtoge where Leift Jochim Staets will stay there Comeing & if Eghbert be not at ye farm yt he take anoyr whom he shall think Convenient. Resolved that there be 400 Stockadoes Rid for the Citty, to be sett up in ye Room of ye old Stockadoes & yt ye Troopers bring - -- - - 100 Capt Blekers Come - - - 160 Capt Wendels - - - 160 And sett them up according to ye Division. Major Savage Capt Belsher & Capt Jonathan Bull agents for ye 3 Collonies of n: England Desyre yt this Convention would Depute three or foure Gentn to have a Conference with them what will be Requisite to Propose to ye Indians Resolved yt ye Mayr Recordr Capt Wendel Capt Bleeker Capt gerritse & Mr. Livingston doe meet ye gentn this afternoon & advise them in yt matter Resolved that there be a fort made about ye house of Bartel Vroman at Sarachtoge & Twelve men Raised out of ye Two Companies of ye Citty & 2 Companies of ye County to Lye there upon pay who are to have 12d a day besides Provisions and some Indians of Skachkook to be there with them to goe out as skouts in yt Part of ye County. Resolved that ye fort at ye halfmoon about ye house & barne 90 ADMINISTRATION OF of harme Lievese be Removed to a more convenient Place & ye Mayor & Mr Evert Banker to goe thither & see it effected. Resolved that there be a fort made at Paepsknee in ye most Convenient Place, & yt Melgert abrah: Claes van Petten marte Cornelis gerrit gysbertsen & ye Inhabitants of Paepsknee make ye same for there security to retreat into upon occasion & that albt Ryckman & John Beekman see it effected. Resolved that there be a fort made at Betlehem in the most Convenient Place, and yt the inhabitants of Betlehem make y6 same for there oune security to Retreat unto upon occasion, & albert Ryckman Justice of ye Peace & Johannes Beekman to see it done. Resolved that Capt. Gerrit Teunise and ye Commission officers of his Company doe order a fort to be made att ye Groot Stuk and one at Pompoenik where it shall be thougt most convenient since ye fort about ye Barn of Lawrence van ale is judged Dangerous except ye Bergh with Corn be removed all which is for ye Peoples most security, & that ye People of Patcook doe make there Retreat to Johannes Bensings upon occasion & what ye sd Capt and officers shall doe herein ye Inhabitants there are to submitt too upon there Perrills Understanding by ye Commission officers of Schennectady that there is no settlement there how or what way they are to Behave themselfs if ye enemy should come, since they cannot agree amongst themselvs in yt particular. Resolved that Mr Dirk Wessells and Capt Johannes wendel Justices of ye Peace goe thither & Conveen ye Company together & consult what measures they are to take upon occasion if an enemy should come, to ye end there may be unity in such extremityes, & ye Inhabitants there are ordered to submitt to what ye sa gent" & ye head officers of there Toune shall Conclude upon, upon there oun Perrill Resolved since we have Reed Certain Information of some Praying Canida Indians lately taken by our Maquase that ye french Design to send out there Indians and french to kill and Destroy there Majts Subjects of this County that Dirk Teunise Esqr one of there Majts Justices of the Peace goe to ye County of LIEUT GOV. LESLIER. 91 Ulster for ye assistance of 25 or 30 men to be Ready upon occasion if any attaque or Incursion should be made on ye frontiers of this County for to secure & defend there Majts Interest here who is Impowered to discourse with ye Civill and Military officers of yt County about ye p'mises. Att a Convention &c. 11th Sept. 1689 Present P. Schuyler Mayr Levinus Van Shaik D. Wessells Recdr Kilion van Renselaer Capt Wendel Leift Jochem Staets Capt Bleeker Leift Robt Sanders Capt gerrit Teunise List of men who have taken service to serve there Majte & ye Countrey upon the frontiers of there majts County of Albany who are to have 12d pr diem and Provisions except Claes Rust who is to have ye Command & is to have 18d pr diem who had Instructions given him accordingly. of Capt Wendels Compe Claes Rust gerrit Luy kasse Jellis funda of Capt Bleekers Compe Johannes Rutgers Rutger Teunise of ye Troop - - Frank Salisbury of Capt g: Teunise Compe Joh: gerritse Van Vechten Teunise dirkse Van Vechten Lambt Jochimes Manuel Cansalis off Capt gerritse Compe Johannes Janse ouderkirk Joseph Janse By ye Mayor aldermen and Commonality of ye Citty of Albany and ye Justices of ye Peace of ye County aforesaid Whereas the selling and giving of strong Drink to ye Indians at this present juncture is founde by Experience Extream Dangerous insomuch yt diverse Inhabitants at Shennectady and Elsewhere have made there Complaint that there is no living if ye Indians be not kept from Drinke, Wee doe therefore hereby 92 ADMINISTRATION OF strikly Prohibite & forbid in the name of King William & queen Mary yt no Inhabitants of the Citty and County of Albany doe sell or give any Rom Brandy Strong Liquor or Beer to any Indian or Indians upon any pretence whatsoever upon ye Penalty of Two monthes Imprisonement without Baile or main prise & moreover a fine of five Pounds toties quoties, ye Prooffe hereof to be made as is Incerted in ye Proclamation Prohibiting ye Selling of Strong Drink dated ye 21th day of May 1689 which is by Proof or Purgation by oath, always Provided yt it shall and may. be in ye Power of ye Mayor aldermen & Commonality of ye Sd Citty if they see cause to give any smal quality of Rom to any Sachims who come here about Publick Bussinesse any Prohibition abovesd in any manner notwithstanding, given att ye Citty hall of Albany ye 12th day of Septembr 1689 pr Ordr ROBT LIVINGSTON Clk. Att a Convention &c. Sept 17th 1689 Present, all the members heretofore mentioned. The Messenger Johannes Beeker who was sent Expresse to N: Yorke with a letter to Capt Leysler and ye Rest of ye Military officers of ye Citty & County of N: Yorke according to ye Resolution of this Convention ye 4th of this Instant being Returned was sent for and asked whither he had Delivered ye Letter as it was Directed and if he had Received any answer from sd Leysler to ye gentn that had sent him who answered that he had delivered ye Letter to Capt. Leysler but had no letter in answer but thatt Directed to Capt Wendel and Capt Bleeker and yt he further heard Capt. Leysler say, yt he had nothing to doe wth ye Civill Power he was a Souldier and would write to a Souldier. Resolved since Capt Leysler and ye Military officers of ye Citty and County of N: Yorke have not been Pleased to Return ye Least answer to ye Convention upon there Letter and Resolve of ye4th Instant but sent a Letter to Capt wendel & Capt Bleeker signed by Leysler alone which is openly Read, ye Purport of which Cheeffly tends to Desyre them to Induce the Common People to send Two men to assist them in there Committe, and advise them further yt he sends them 40 lb match out of there Majts Stores and Two hundred lb of Pouder belonging to ye mer LIEUT. GOV. LEISLER. 93 chants of albany Item 4 small Gunns, but as for money they Receive none, neither is itt in there Power to Command any of there Militia for our assistance alledgeing yt ye great slight there People Rec'd when here Deprives them to oblige Volunteers, Insisting again for ye Sending doune of Committes to consult wth them and shal then according to there Capacities Resolve for ye Publick good. That some oyr methods may be used for ye Procureing of men if Possible from N: England or Elsewhere for ye Defence of there Majts Intrest in this County, and if Christians cannot be procured yt some Indians may be gott wth al speed. Ordered yt Robt Sanders use his Endeavor to procure the Indians of ye Long Reach Wawyachtenok and Sopus to come here to lye out as skouts upon ye borders of this County & yt he have Letters of Recommendation to ye Justices of ye Peace of ye County of Ulster to assist him in Perswading of sd Indians Ordered yt ye assistants of ye Respective wardes & ye Military officers of ye County goe about & see what ye Inhabitants will be willing to advance for ye Raiseing of some men for ye Defence of this County against ye french, and are sent with this following Proposalli PROPOSALL TO yE COMMONALITY for ye maintaining and paying of men in this juncture of time for our Defence against ye french, since by the Present Revolutions we can expect no releef for or assistance from our neighbours according to there letters sent hither, which Charge will be Represented by this Convention to ye govr whom there Majts will be Pleased to send; that sd men may be pd out of ye Public Revenues of ye Countrey being for ye Preservation of there Majts Intrest in these parts, oyrwise that it will be paid by a generall Tax out of ye whole County To ye maintaining which men these following persons subscribe vizt P. Schuyler Mayr........................ ~15: 0 Kil: van Renselaer................... 15: 0 gabriel Thompson.................. 10: 0 Marte gerritse..,...................... 10: 0 Dirk wessels........................... 6: 0 Jan Lansing..................* 12: 0 94 ADMINISTRATION OF Joh: wendel.................. **** 12: 0 L. Schaick............................ 10 0 Albt Ryckman...................6: 0 Robt Sanders................... 0 Robt Livingston............... ***** 50: 0 Johannes abeel............e.**..******. 6:0 Gert Teunise................. 5 0 David Schuyler...................... 6: 0 Jochim Staets.......................... 5: 0 Evert Banker................... e..' 5: 0 Isak Verplank............*......... 3: 0 Johannes Beekman.. ****...*.*. *. 4: 0 Johannes Thomase....................... 2:0 Evert d Ridder................... 3: 0 Reynier Barents..................... 6 0 Jan Janse Bleeker................ 6 0 abraham Cuyler.....-..... 3: harme Rutgers.................... 3: antho Bratt....................... 0: Annetje Lievens......................... 15: Margt Schuyler........................ 20: Catharina Glen................. 4: Myndt harmense.................. 6: Elisabeth Van Tricht..................... 3 Jannetje Gerritse......................... 10: Jan Rosie............................... 0: Jan Becker.............................. 2: Jacob Staets................... *...... 5: Gerrit Banker...................... 18: 292: SECOND WARD. Johannes Cuyler.. 3:12 Johannes appel....................... 3: Jeronimus wendel...................... 4: P. Davidtse...................... 2: 0 Hend: Bries........................... 3: Jacob abrahamse........................ 2: Evert wendel........................... 3: LIEUT. GOV. LEISLER. 95 Phil: wendel....................... 1 arent Schuyler........ *.....**** a**** 6: Jacobus Turk........................... 1:10 Johannes Rooseboom................. 2: 6 31: 8 THIRD WARD Dirk Bensing.................... 1:10 Bennony van Corlaer.................. 3:10 Jacob Meese.... * ** 0a..a 1: Jacob Voss..............................:10 Myndt Frederickse...........:10 Johannes van Sante............... 1: ~8: The farmers belonging to Capt Marten Gerritse Compe Melgert abrahamse.....***....*s.**.. ~: 8 Claes van Petten................*** 2 gerrit gysbertse..............o.......... 1 DoriteJanse...*. a.*...- *. 1: 4 geertruy Janse.................. 1 4 Cornelis Teunise.......................... 1: Cobus Janse..................:12 Catharina van dr Poel................. 3: antho van Shaik......... - a....0.... 4; Hend: van Ness....2..:.,.. a 2: P. Lockermans...........................:14 Teunise d metselaer..... *...*..**.***. *:. 3: And. hanse......................... 1: Jan Ouderkerk...................:12 Harme Lieverse........................... 1: Jan van ness................... 1: Barent Bratt.............................. 0: Geurt hendrickse...................:12 Roeloff gerritse.................; 6 William Ketelheyn........................ 2: gert Lansing as well as his brothers.......... 0: ~26:18 96 ADMINISTRATION OF The farmers belonging to Capt gert Teunisens Compe Cornelis Stevense.e................... ~2: Lieve winne....................... 1: Volkert van hoesen........................ 1: Matthys Janse........................ 1: Jan hendrikse......... 1: hans Juriaense............* 1: Jacob van hoesen.......... *.*...... *... 1: Luykas Janse................., 1; ~9: C: gerritsens Compe.................a... 26:18 3d ward................................ 8: 2d ward...................... 31: 8 1St ward & Convention................. 292: ~367: 6 Att a Convention &c. 23d day Septembr 1689 Present P. Schuyler Mayr Ev. Banker Dirk Wessels Recdr Capt Marten gerritsen J. Wendel C. gert Teunise J. Bleeker Leift Joh: Bensem Jan Lansing Leift Rob: Sanders Liv: van Schaik Lieft. Ev.d Ridder albt Ryckman V: gabr: Thomson Joh: Abeel The Schedule or List of ye Burgers & farmers names who subscribed for ye Contribution of money for ye Raiseing of men for our assistance being summd up amounts to ye somme of ~367:6 and therefore not half Eneugh for ye Procureing of one hundred men wh is judged Requisite to acquaint ye Commonality withall: So yt oyr means must be used to Procure men, doe therefore Mortifye & make null & void ye aforesaid subscriptions thanking ye People who had signed for there good Inclination. It is therefore Resolved since no assistance can be expected from N: Yorke nor money raised here to Procure men to write to ye governr LIEUT. GOV. IEISLER. 97 and Convention of Boston for ye assistance' of one hundred menand also to governr and gen11 assembly off Connetticut for ye assistance of ye like number of men to lye in garrison here this winter to secure there Majts Fort and ye frontiers of this county against ye french or there Praying Indians which Letters are written accordingly Whereas it is thougt Convenient by ye Convention of Civill and Military officers of ye Citty and County of Albany yt all Possible endeavors be used to Procure ye Indians of ye Long Reach Wawijachtenock & Sopus to come here & Lye out as skouts upon ye borders of this County to prevent any Incursions yt might be made by ye Indians of Canida and Robert Sanders Lieft of one of ye Train bande Companies of this Citty being thought a fitt p'son to Procure ye same, he is therefore hereby mnpowered & authorized to use his Endevors in effctilg ye-same, & ye gentlemen of our neighbouring County of Ulster are earnestly desyred & Intreated to be aideing & assisting to him in sd bussinesse itt being for ye Preservation of there MajtS king Wnl & queen Maryes Interest in these parts Actum in albany ye 27th of Sepr 1689 Att a Convention &c. Albany Oct. 24th 1689 Present P. Schuyler Mayr Capt Marten gerritsen Job: Wendel C: Sanders glenn albt Ryckman L: Jan van Eps David Schuyler En: Job: Sanders Eghbert Teunise Leift Jochim Staets Claes Ripse Capt Sharpe Ev. Banker gert Ryerse The Convention being mett to consider ye Contents of a Letter sent by ye govr of Boston in ye name and by Consent of ye Councill and Representatives wherein they signify there sence of ye feares and Dangers we Lye in of Incursions by ye french and French Indians & ye need we stand in of some forces to be sent for ye enforcing of our garrison wh they would be willing to afford from thence, but there p'sent Circumstances of things haveing so many men out against ye Common Enemy to ye Eastward, besides ye great Distance from hence, yt they cannot doe what they would VOL. II. 7 98 ADMINISTRATION OF in that Regard, but have written to ye govr and Councill of Connetticutt Earnestly Pressing them to Provide one hundred men (if they can so many) or what they can for our present Relieffe, & yt Capt Bull be desyred to take the Command of them; and that they had writt to ye Govr and Councill of Plymouth that they would enforce the same motion-by there Letter to Connetticut, yt it may be sent by ye joynt Concurrence of all ye Collonies, Robert Treat Esqr Govr of Conetticut doth answer our Letter sent him by Capt Bull which he had Comnmunicated to ye genll assembly that there Court had taken our condition into there serious Consideration, and have Resolved to send us about eighty souldiers with there officers as soon as they can effect it, and are endeavoring to Procure Capt Bull to be there Capt but hope and Expect yt we will pay ye Comtmission officers there wages, They being at so great a charge about ye warrs with ye Eastern Indians and oyrwise by Losses throug great sicknesse and mortality in there harvest season-yet they think strange thatt none of our oun neighbouring Counties should Releave us which lye so fanr before them wth lesse charge & difficulty then they can Reach, & therefore think it so Reasonable a Request on there Parts unto us to take off some Part of there wages, there expenses being so great among themselfs, & Cannot raise men for such service at p'sent with great Difficulty & waite our Complyance herewith. Vpon which this following was resolved Capt Sander Glenn Leift Jan van Eps Ens: Johannes Sanders glen, and Sweer Teunise doe vote in ye Behalfe of ye Toune of Shinnechtady yt ye men may be sent for from Canetticut and that they will bear there Proportiones of ye Cherge of ye officers there wages and maintain them accordingly, Provided they be under Command and obey such orders and Instructions as they shall Receive from time to time from ye Convention of this Citty and County and in ye time of there not sitting to ye Mayr & aldermen of this citty. It is ye opinion of ye Convention yt ye 8 men still at Sarachtoge doe Remain ther til further order. LIEJUTg'GO;. LEISLERB. 99 At a Convention &c. Oct..25. 1689. Present as before. It is Thougt Convenient that all there Majts Justices of ye6 Peace & Commission officers doe take ye oath of allegiance to there Majes William & Mary king and Queen of England Fraxce & Ireland &a Defenders of ye faith and accordingly pr Schuyler mayr & Justice of ye Peace did take ye oath of fidelity before Dirk wessells Recorder & Justice of the Peace And these following Persons took ye oath of fidelity to there Majes before pr Schuyler mayr vizt Dirk wessells Recordr Capt Gerrit Teunise Capt: Marte Gerritse Leift: Robt: Sanders Ens: gabriel Thompson kilian van Renselaer Claes Ripse Van Dam David Schuyler Robt: Livingston Leift Jochim Staets: Johannes appel Constable & pr Boss Constable Dirk Wessells Jan Janse Bleeker and Dirk Teunise Justices of the Peace haveing been at Sopus for ye behalfe of this County to Desyre assistance, and accordingly made there application to Maji Chambers ye third time, who gave his warrant to ye Commission officers to collect the votes of ye Inhabitants concerning ye sending up of men upon accasion for ye assistance of ye People of alb. upon which ye return was by Capt Beekman of ye horse That all his men were willing but Two Capt Matthys that all his Company was willing, Capt Garten that he himself and all his Comp: were Ready but Capt Paling had not brought in hs return The sd Justices did Insist with ye Majr of yt County that ye men might be Prikt yt were to come upon occasion of allarm, that they might ye more Depend thereupon, who ordered yt ye Court. marshall should meet ye 25 of october to effect that Bussinesse Resolved that the men that are at Sarachtoge be sent for doune and that seven souldiers out of there majt fort with Claes Rust and Dick albertse Bradt be sent thither to lye there as skouts on yt part of ye County. Resolved yt Capt kilian Van Renselaer & Capt gert Teunise e dieputed to goe to ye Govr and Councill of Connetticut and t 100 ADMINISTRATION OF Return our hearty Thanks for there kinde Letter of ye 15th Instant wherein they signify yt they will send about 80 men besides officers for our Releefe Expecting yt we will pay ye Commission officers there wages who are to be commissionated to treat wtl ye sd goyr and Councill about ye officers wages since this county hath had such excessive Charges without ye least assistance & to accept of ye men by them Proferd & to Dispatch them hither wth all speed who are to lye in garrison here this winter. Whereas we are informed that diverse persons envying y0 Peace wellfare and tranquility of ye Inabitants of this City & County have Endeavored to Raise diverse false aspersions and jealousies as if some Inhabitants here should have greater affection to ye late Popish king James Stuart then to our endeared Souvraign Lord & Lady king William & Queen Mary whom God almighty through his great mercy hath been pleased to call to ye Throne & to rule over us; but to avoid all such Jealousies thogh we are very well assured that few or none in our Posts but doe abhor and Detest all Popery and what tends thereunto but on ye Contrarie will with all Cherfullnesse & readinesse abide ye oath of allegiance to there sd Mats as all ye members of ye sd Convention have already done It is therefore thought Convenient by ye Sd Convention thogh for ye present there be no Commission from there Majts to administer ye Sd oath that ye Inhabitants of ye Citty & County of Albany & souldiers of there Majts fort doe all take ye oath of Allegiance to there Majts king William & queen Mary on or before the last day of octobr next ensuing, and ye Aldermen in there wards are ordered to administer sd oath who will be founde at there respective houses on ye-forenoon & yi justices in ye out plantations to administer the same to them that live there, all who are to make Return thereof to ye office of ye Citty & County who names are to be recorded accordingly. By order of ye Convention ROBT LIVINGSTON LIEJT. GOV. LEISLER. 101 The 26th of octob 1689 Resolved yt Dirk Wessells John Wendell Jan Janse Bleeker David Shuyler & albert Ryckman, Justices of ye Peace doe repare to there Majts fort and administer to ye Souldiers the oath of fidelity to there Majts William & Mary king & queen of Engid &c. who accordingly with all Cherfulnesse & Readinesse took ye same (as they were drawn up in ye fort in arms by Levt Sharpe who took his oath ye 19th of octob last in ye full Convention) a list whereof follows Charles Rogers Ser Richd Tunnell Christoph: Barnsford Serg Elias Van Ravesteyn John holman Ried white John gilbert Corprs Ricd wilson John Thompson Jos. Yetts Wm Shaw meatros [gunner] Tho: wakefield Tho. Rodgers Drumr gert arentse These were not present Robt Barnet being at ye halfmoon John Carter Tobyas henderson John Douglas James Larmond John Denny Wm Powel Wm Ellis James willet Robt Farrington Ralph Graunt Tho. Shaver Refuses [to] Wm Haaton take ye oath Wm hather Sephen hooper Memorandum ye 10 of Nov. Wm Rogers ye abovesd men Took all ye John Radecliffe oath of allegiance It is unanimously Resolved yt Leift Thos. Sharpe who together with ye Souldiers of there Majts garrison have taken ye oath of fidelity to there Majts William & Mary king & queen yt ye sd Leift Sharpe shall Continue in ye Command of there Majts fort of Albany who is to obey such orders & Instructions as he shall from time to time Receive from ye Convention of ye Citty and County of Albany, & yt no oyr person shall have ye Command of sd fort till orders Came from there Majts king William & 102 ADMINISTRATION OF queen Mary which we with Patience will waite for Since ye sd fort is kept for there MajtS use Signed P SCHUYLER JOHANNES WENDEL JAN JANSE BLEEKER K V RENSELAER Ev BANKER JOH: CUYLER DIRK TEUNISE This Protest was sent aboard of Jochim Staets by ye Marshall inclosed in a letter to him & alderman Skaik Resolved to write and give our hearty thanks to ye Honbl Govr & Councill and Representives of Boston for there kinde letter of ye 10th of Octobr in writeing to ye govr & Councill of Conetticut Pressing them to Provide one hundred men for our assistance who accordingly have granted to furnish us with eighty men wth there officers hopeing & expecting Payint for ye Commission officers & yt Kilian Van Renselaer & Capt gerrit Teunise be sent to Conetticut to return them thanks for there assistance and to accept of ye men and withal to Inform them of ye mean Condition of this place and how willing we would be to pay sd officers & Souldiers too if we were in a condition Io bear it. Resolved to write to ye govr & Councill of Conetticut to thank them for there kinde letter of ye 15th of Octobr wherein they graunt to send us eighty souldiers with there officers, hopeing and and expecting we will Pay ye Commission officers, & yt Capt. Renselaer and Capt. gert Teunise be Commissionated to goe thither and Return our Thanks and accept of ye 80 men & Endeuor to have them hither with all speed, who are to submit themselfs to ye ordrs & directions of ye Convention, & withail to consult wth ye Govr & Councill Concerning ye Payment of ye Commission Officers. By ye Convention of ye Civill and Military officers of ye Citty and County of Albany. Whereas it is thought Convenient that some p'sons be Commissionate to goe to ye honble gov' & Council of Conetticut and ye assembly if sitting to give our Cordiall thanks for there great LIEUT. GOV. LEISLER. 103 kindnesse in Resolueing to send eighty men with there officers for ye security of there Majts Interest in these Parts, and we confideing in ye Integrity and fidelity of Capt. Kilian van Renselaer & Capt. Gert Teunise members of our Convention have Desyred and authorized.ia with all Convenient Speed to goe to ye Collony of Connetticut and Signify to ye honble govr & Councill of yt Colony & to ye assembly if sitting ye Real senate we have of there kindnesse in Sendeing these men, & to hasten there Comeing wth all convenient Speed, as also to Discourse wth ye sd Govr Concerning ye wages of ye Commission officers earnestly Desyreing yt ye sd Two gentn may be Reputed and Esteemed as our agents in yt Behalfe Ratifyeing and Confirming whatever they shall act or doe about ye p'mises, given under our hands & sealls in Albany ye 28th day of octobr in ye first year of ye Reign of our Souveraign Lord & Lady William & Mary king & queen of Engl: &c. 1689 Signed PIETER SCIHYLER JOHANNE S WNENDOE,L DIa.K WE:Vi;SSELLS v. BA3NKER Att a Convention &c. Albany 28th Sept.! October 1689 Present as before. Resolved yt Capt. wendel & Capt. Bleeker Cause ye gates & Courtains of ye Citty to be made & Repared according to ye Division made and there engagement who are to warn there People to doe it upon Pain of answering whatsoever Inconveniencies that may happen by such neglect and each of ye sd Captns had an ordr given them accordingly Resolved yt Since Sundrey members of ye Convention have Signned a Bonde for ye Reimburseing of Robt Livingston such disbursements as he shall make for there Majts acct upon our Request yt ye said Bonde be Recorded wh is as follows Whereas there is at this Present juncture litle or no Revenue accrueing to there Majts in this Citty and County and nevertheless diverse Charges to be paid as ye Reparations of there Majts fort 104 ADMINISTRATION OF Paying of ye People that have been at Sarachtoge upon ye kings & queens acct and Diverse oyr Public Charges and altho Robt Livingston is already Considerable in advance yett ye Convention doe Desyre yt he further may advance upon there Majts accompt, such necessary Charges as shall from time to time happen and because ye sd Livingston may be ye more Incouraged to Procced, we whose names are underwritten doe Promise & Engage yt if ye sd Livingston be not Reimbursed such Disbursements as he shall make by ye Mayrs order one aldermen and assistant for ye Publick acct in Six monthes after ye arrivall of a govr or orders from there now Majesties king Wmn & queen Mary yt wee will yointly & severally see him pd & Satisfyed and that he shall not sustain any Losse or Damage by Such Disbursemtr being by our Particular ordrs as witnesse our hands in albany ye 26 of octobr 1689 pr SCHUYLER DIRK WESSELLS CLAES RIPSE VAN DAM GABRIEL THOMPSON DIRK TEUNISE ALBT RYCKMAN DAVID SCHUYLER Johannes van dr heyden hend: Janse & Wmn Hollie took ye oath of allegiance to there Majts The Convention writt a letter to alderman Schayk and Lieft Staets putting them in minde of what they had writt yesterday Concerning ye Reports of Leyslers Intentions to send up armed men to overthrow ye government of this Citty, and that they would endevor to prevent it as they loved ye Peace of this Citty, and withall Informed them that we hear by a Prisoner come from Canida yt ye Indian Prisoners were come from france with ye govr of Mont Royall and yt ye govr of Canida and diverse officers went to france, & therefore consider in what a Condition we would be with ye Indians if a Change of Magistrates and a Subversion of ye government should at p'sent be made. LIEUT. GOV. LEISLER. 105 Albany ye 29th of octobr 1689. Present Pr Schuyler Mayr David Schuyler Dirk wessells albt Ryckman Jan Bleeker Joh: Cuyler Claes Ripse Eghbert Teunise Jan nack Whereas there was an order made by ye Convention ye 25th Instant that ye men Lyeing at Sarachtoge be sent for and yt seven Souldiers of there Majts fort with Two oyr men be Sent there yt can speak ye Indian Language, and being informed by Leift Sharpe yt ye Souldiers were unwilling to goe, they were Sent for who told the Gentn that if ye Convention would engage for their Pay they would willingly serve there Majts to whom they have Sworne fidelity in their Majts fort; But they would all willingly goe with there officer for their Majt8 acct whereever he would lead them, & if ye Convention were not satisfied with that they would all grounde there arms alleadgeing yt none but a governr or he yt had Immediat Commission from there Majts William & Mary could Command them out in Such Small Partyes Except they engage for their pay Upon which it was Resolved yt Dirk albertse Bratt and another be sent thither to stay there with Some Indians till further order. Att a Convention &c. albany ye 4th of novembr 1689 Present Pr Schuyler mayr Reynier Barentse Dirk wessels Recordr Evert Banker Joh: wendel Jan nack Liv: Van Schaik Joh: Cuyler Jan Bleeker Eghbert Teunise Claes Ripse Capt Marten gerritse David Schuyler Justice albert Ryckman Leif. Robt Sanders Whereas ye members of ye Convention have given to Robt. Livingston a Bonde whereby they oblige themselfs to bear ye sd 106 ADMINISTRATION OF Livingston harmlesse for such Disbursemts as he hath now or shall make for ye Publike acct by our Particular ordr, That if he be not paid within Six months after ye arrivall of a govr or orders from there now Majts King William & queen Mary, that wee will see him paid, & if it should happen that care should not be taken for ye Reimburseing of sd Livingston, that he should be necessitated to Demand ye sd DisbursemtS of ye members of sd Convention, It is ordered yt such p'son or p'sons so Paying Such Publike Charge be Reimbursed out of ye Publike Rates of ye County, always Provided ye sd Charge be for ye Reparations of there Majts fort of Albany & ye Charge of ye People yt Lay at Sarachtoge. Livinus Van Schaik aldermen and one of ye Justices of ye Peace of this County arrived this day from N: Yorke to whom the Resolution of this Convention of ye 26th of octobr Last was Sent, inclosed in a letter to him and Leift Jochim Staas who were Desyred after they had Received Information yt Capt Leysler was intended to send up a Compe of armed men to make themselfs master of there Majts Fort of Albany and of ye Citty turn ye government of this Citty upside doune & Disturbe ye Peace and Tranquility of there Majts King William & queen Marys Liege People, and carry Some of ye Principle Burgers and Inhabitants of this Citty Prisoners to N: Yorke That they should Deliver ye Protestation sent them by this Convention against Such Proceedings Alderman Schaik haveing Received diverse Informations from Credible Persones that they had such and such Designs Discoursed Jochim Staets telling him he thought himself obliged to Deliver ye Protest to Leysler and ye Committee, which was sent by ye Convention of Albany upon which Jochim Staets Replyed he knew not what to doe, They would have him Capt of yt Company that went up to Albany which was to Lye in ye fort. Alderman Shaik answered Mr Staets you know that would Be against ye Resolution of ye Convention of Albany who hes Put Capt Sharpe to be Commander there, whereupon Jochim Staets Replyed they would have Sharpe out, & if I will not accept of itt they will putt in Churchill, methinks that it is better that I LIEUT GOV. LEISLER. 107 accept of itt then that such a Vagabond as Churchill should have ye Command. UIpon which ye sd alderman went in with Jochim Staets to ye Committee being ye 29th day of octobr & Delivered ye Protest to Capt. Leysler & ye Resolution of ye Convention of Albany for Capt Sharpe to Continue till further orders The Said alderman Skaik askd, what answer they would give him upon ye Protest, upon which Jacob Milborne Replyed with, Consent of ye oyr Persons Conveined yt time that he would goe up to Albany, & see the fort there better Secured. The Said Schaik Considering ye Contents of ye Conventions Letter whereby they earnestly Desyred advice by an Expresse if occasion Required, thought Convenient to come up himself to give ye Convention an acct off affares not Doubting but that they were fully Resolved to Send up men hither to Disturbe the People of Albany Since ye day before ye Protest came to his hands he himself being in there Committee (about some Discourse thatt should have Passed on Long Island) heard Capt. Leysler Say amongst oyr Discourse that they of albany should bring there Charter here if they had one, & yt Leift Sharpe & Rodgers were Papists all which with severall oyr Informations he heard while he was at N: Yorke The Convention did Returne there hearty thanks to alderman Schaik for his Care & fidelity in acting so Prudently in yt affaire & for Delivering ye Protest which they understand would not have been Delivered by Jochim Staets; & Especially for his trouble that He hes been Pleased to take to come up himself Expresse & give an acct of affares Upon which itt was Enquired by ye Mayr of ye Convention whither there were any Person or member of ye Convention from ye greatest officer to ye Least yt any Person had any objection against or ye Least mistrust that they should now declare itt. Whereupon ye Convention unanimously answered that they had nothing to object against any of ye members of ye Convention, but that they should be and Remaine in there Respective offices and Stations till ordrs from there most Sacred Majts William & Mary king & queen of England &c. and that they 108 ADMINISTRATION OF would not Suffer that any member Should be Disturbed Displaced or Removed from this Citty upon any Pretence whatsoever and if such a thing happened to be done by force Contrare to ye Priviledge of this Citty (wCh God forbid) that ye whole Convention would Resent it as done to them all in generall & make Record of itt accordinglyItt is Resolved by this Convention to acquaint the Burgers and Inhabitants of this Citty by the assistants of there Respective wards how yt we have Received Information from N: Yorke that there is a Compe of men comeing up from thence, who Intend to Turn ye governmt of this Citty upside doune, make themselfs master of ye Fort and Citty, and in no manner to be obedient to any orders and Commands as they should Receive from time to Time from ye Persons now in authority in this Citty and County, whereby great Confusion will Ensue, Especially, if ye Indians Perceive Such Divisions amongst our Selfs, will be in Danger to be led away to ye french, & so break ye frindship which with so much Trouble and Paynes and charge hath hitherto been Preserved by this governimt which might tend to ye great Ruine and Destruction of there Majts Interest in these Parts which sd men so comeing up we hear are to be paid by ye Burgers and Inhabitants of this Citty and County, which charge would be untollerable to be born by ye Inhabitants att this Juncture of time, & not only that charge butt by such means cause us to Contribute to what Charge they of N: Yorke have been att Since these Revolutions, and therefore itt is thought Convenient to Convein the Burgers in the Citty hall & there to Demand there opinion, and to answer to Some articles which will be given them in writeing to morrow. Att a Convention &c. Albany the 5th day of novembr 1689 Present as before According to ye Resolution taken by ye Convention yesterday ye Burgers and Inhabitants of ye Citty and Part of ye County were Conveined in ye Citty hall by Bell Ringing and these following Proposalls were made & given them in writeing & Desyred to give there answer. LIEUT. GOY. LEISLER. 109 PROPOSEALLS made by the Convention to ye People. In Albany ye 5th day of novembr 1689. Upon ye Report of men comeing from N: Yorke 1 If they be not Resolved to stand for ye Privileges of there Citty and County, and to Resist all p'sons who shall endevor to Brake ye Same. 2 If they had any objection or any thing against the Magistrates or members of ye Convention fiom ye Least member to ye greatest, That they now would Reveale ye Same. 3 If they wer inclined to pay ye Souldiers wages comeing from N: Yorke which we i;eare -e military officers of N: Yorke have Engaged must be paid by ye Inhabitants of albany 4 If they had any mistrust of Leift Tho. Sharpe whomr ye Convention have Continued in ye fort to be under them, and if they would have one besides him to have ye Command of ye fort 5 Since we have heard Suc h Strange Rumours, if it would not be Very Dangerous to Sutfer ye men comeing fron New Yorke to come into ye Citty, before we have Sufficient assurance that they come with a good Intent to assist us as neighbours, and to obey the Convention, and not to turn ye government of ye Citty upside doune, to make themselfs master of the fort and Citty, and to fetch ye meanest Burger from hence; and if they Burgers would not oppose Such hostility aud force. 6 If it is not Extream Dangerous at this Juncture to make any Confusion Division or change least y Indians who are in Covenant with us and depend thereupon should mistrust our Integrity and so be brought to Side with ye french 7 If they will not secure ye fort and Citty for there Majts till Such time there Majts king william & queen mary Send orders or a governour, and that of N: yorke nor none else be admitted to be master of ye same 8 That they ought to Consider yt ye Souldiers that lye in ye fort are no Burthen to ye Citty nor County but kept maintained & paid upon there Majts accompt who are not only naturall born subjects of England but have all (Except one) taken ye oath of allegeance to ye Present king & Queen 110 ADMINISTRATION OF 9 If they doe not owne and acknowledge ye Convention of ye Citty and County for there Lawfull Authority till a Settlement comes, and if they them will obey as such Upon which ye People agreed and Consented to ye sd Articles, acknowledgeing ye members of ye Convention for there Lawfull Magistracy in there Respective offices and Places and made this following answer Signed by forty of ye Inhabitants Principall men of ye Toune Whereas ye Convention of albany have Propounded Some articles to ye Commonality for ye wellfare of ye Place wee underwritten Burgers and Inhabitants of ye Citty and County of albanie do Promise and Declare faithfully and Sincerely yt wee will uphold and Maintain to ye utmost ye Previleges of albany, & oppose all Persones who shall Seeke to infringe ye Same. 2 That we have not ye least objection or Evill opinion of ye Magistrates or members of ye Convention, butt Promise to Obey them and assist them as faithfull Subjects are bounde to doe there lawfull authority. 3 That we are no ways Inclined to pay ye People comeing from: N: Yorke, neither can bear such Excessive Charge, but if they come as good neighbours & friendes shall endeavor to Treat them Civilly with meat and Drink and Lodgeing according to our ability. 4 That ye Bussinesse Concerning ye fort is Referred to ye Convention. 51y That we unanimously judge it Dangerous to lett ye men comeing from N: Yorke come into ye Citty till Such time ye Convention have Sufficient assurance of there sincere meaning and Intention, Since by no means we can Suffer them to Turn ye governmt of this Citty upside doune, nor that they be masters of City or fort nor suffer ye Least Burger to be carried away, from hence or molest them, But if they have anything to object against any of ye Burgers of this Citty, that they may enter there action before ye Courts of this Citty & County according to law 6 That we juge a Change or Subversion of government att this jucture to be Exceeding, Dangerous in Reference to ye Treating with ye Indians, and therefore doe not understand that LIEUT. GOV. LEISLEER. 111 there now be a Change upon any Pretence whatsoever, before yt orders comes from there AMajts 7 That wee are fully Resolved with ye help of god almighty to keep & Secure ye fort and Citty for the Behoofe of our Souveraign Lord & Lady Ki:g William & Queen Mary; and not suffer them of N: Yorke or any Person else to Rule over ye Same, Since it will be Required att our hands when a govr comes & not of theres. 8 That we verry well approve of ye Souldiers that have taken ye oath of fidelity doe Remain in y fort, & if there be occasion for more men in ye fort to Secure ye Same yt then Some of ye Burgers or whom ye Convention shall appoint doe goe thither and no oyr 9: & Lastly: That we doe Esteem owne and acknowlege ye Convention to be our only Lawfull authority in this Country till such time ordrs comes from there Majtu whom we doe Relye upon for ye good government of ye Same, Praying God to Blesse them in their undertakeings for ye wellfare of our Country, Promiseing to assist them wherein they shall have occasion for the Preservation of Peace and Tranquility in our Toune & to lett and hinder all p'sones who shall Stirr up Mutinie and Sedition to Disturbe our Peace. In Testimony whereof that this is our Reall Intent & yt we faithfully will p'form ye Same have hereunto Sett our hands in Albany ye 5th day of novembr: 1689 was signed by forty Inhabitants vizt Jan Becker the mark of Jan H: v: Dyck Cornelise Vyselaer Myndert Frederikse G W V P Pieter D: Schuyler Wm gysbertse Arent Schuyler Abram Isaakse Wmr Teller Hend: Beekman Casp: Teller Bennony Van Corlaer John harris Johannes Thomase A: Teller J Kok Jacob Lockermans Ands Teller junrr Johannes Schuyler Francis Salesbury 112 ADMINISTRATION OF Hend: Rensselaer Johannes appel John Gilbert Abraham Cuyler William hendriksen Jan Bleeker Junr Isaak Vr planken Johannes Becker the younger Antho Bratt Jacob meese vroman Wessel Ten Broek Jacob Vanden Bogaert Zakel heimstraet Gert vanness Warner Carstense Willem --- Myndt Schuyler Hans Cross H-K mark Dirk Bratt Att a Convention &c. Albany 7th & 8th (lays of Novembr 1689. Present as before, Except C: Jan Bleeker absent, and C. Marte gerritse & Gert Ryerse present The matter concerning ye Better Secureing of there Majts fort of albany being taken into Consideration this following order was made thereabouts. Whereas there is a Resolution made by ye Convention ye 26th day of octobr Last whereby Leift. Thomas Sharpe should Continue in ye Command of there MaitS fort of albany till orders comes from there Majts William and Mary king & queen of England &c. who was to obey such orders and Instructions as he should from time to time Receive from ye Said Convention, and whereas we are Informed that Diverse Persones are jealous that there Majts Fort is thereby not Sufficiently Secured but are Desyreous that another Sufficient Person shall be authorized along with said Leif Thomas Sharpe to have ye Command thereof It is therefore thought Convenient by this Convention Since ye winter approaches and ye Long Expected orders from there Most Sacred Majesties not yet being come and to Prevent all jealousies and Annimosities Concerning that affaire at this juncture of time, That Pieter Schuyler Esqr Mayr of this Citty and one of theie Majts Justices of ye Peace of this County and Leift of ye Troop be authorized and is hereby authorized to have ye Command of there Majesties fort and ye same to keep and maintain and Defend for ye Behooffe of there Majts William & Mary king and queen of England france & Irland &a Defenders LIETT. GOV. LEISLER. 113 of ye faith, and Leift Sharpe be Leift under him who are both to obey and Perform Such orders & Instructions as they shall from time to time Receive from ye Convention of ye Citty & County of albany that have the greatest Intrest in ye Preservation & Securing of sd fort for there Majt9 behalfe, and jt till such time and while there Majts William & Mary shall be pleased to send a governr or orders for ye governmt of this Province & the sd pr Schuyler Mayr to take Possession of ye Same accordingly N. B: Joh wendel Suspends his vote for ye p'sent as also Job: Cuyler & J: nack. This being Published by Bell-Ringing ye members of ye Convention went to ye Mayers house, and told him they were come to waite upon him and Conduct him up to ye fort who being accompanied with some of ye Principle Burgers went up and Possession of sd fort after ye usuall Ceremonies was Delivered, & ye sd Mayr with all cheerfullness Received by ye officers and souldiers of there Majes garrison. Att a Convention &c. Albany 9th day of Novembr 1689 Present as before, Except, Mayr & Leif. van Schaik absent. The Members of ye Convention that were in Toune did meet Together att ye Citty hall upon the news that there were three Sloops in Sight whereof one had ye king Jack aboard, and hereing that there were a Compe of Souldiers come by there beating of ye Drum, foure of ye Convention to witt Capt wendel Capt. Bleeker Johannes Cuyler and Reynier Barents were sent aboard to know on what accompt they came, Jacob Milborne who was on board of Jochim Staets Sloop Replyed. If the fort was open for his men to march in that night he was answered no, That ye Mayr of ye Citty had Possession of ye fort who was Commander of ye Same and was Desyred to goe a shore where they would Discourse further, who with ye sd four Persones came to ye Citty hall and was bid welcome by ye members of ye Convention then Present. No sooner was ye sd Milborne come into ye Citty hall which was very full of People, but addressed his Discourse to ye CornVOL. II. 8 114 ADMINISTRATION OF mon People in a long oration with a high Stile & Language telling them That now it was in there powr to free themselfs from yt Yoke of arbitrary Power and Government under which they had Lyen so long in ye Reign of yt Illegall king James, who was a Papist, Declareing all Illegall whatever was done & past in his time, yea the Charter of this Citty was null & void Since it was graunted by a Popish kings governour & that now ye Power was in the People to choose both new Civill and Military officers as they Pleased, challenging all them that had bore office in king James Time to be Illegall, and therefore they must have a free Election, and much Such like Discourse After Jacob Milborne had ended his long Discourse Jochim Staets & pr Bogardus who came up with him from N: Yorke asked why ye magistrates did not speak now, now wasye time for to Speake upon which Dirk wessells Recordr Replyed, that there was time Enough yet, he was nott Authorized at that Juncture to make him answer to such Discourse, they had seen no Commission he had yett and that they were met together to make Billets for the quartering of ye men If they were come with a good Intent, which lay Ready upon ye Table, & yt Milborne addressed his Discourse to ye wrong People Since there were no arbitrary Power here; God had Delivered them from that yoke by there Majesties now upon ye throne, to whom we had taken ye oath of allegiance, for we acted not in king James's name but in king William & queen Marys & were there Subjects. Jacob Milborne Desyred that ye Mayr Might be Present in ye Convention who was Twice Sent for, but answered yt he could not leave his Post which was to keep good watch in there Majts fort, Referring ye sd Milborne to ye Gentn that were Conveined together and yt he would call ye Convention together to morrow after ye 2d Sermon when they would Discourse the Case further with him, this was Communicated to Jacob Milborne who answered that ye Recordr Represented ye Mayr in his absence, and Delivered ye Convention a letter Signed by 25 Persones which was Read ye Contents whereof is as follows LIEUT. GOV. LEISLER. 115 Fort William In N: York ye 28 octobr 1689 GENTn-The unspeakeable goodnesse of god and ye unimagineable benefit which all Protestants Relating to ye Crowne of England do Receive by the Illustrious armes of the Prince of Orange now our Benigne Leige Lord and king as they are unexpressible So likewise they cannot but call for ye most humble & unfeigned thanks to heaven and all Expressible Returns of obedience to his Majestie Therefore to Evince ye Same according to our Capacities wee ye Committee or members chosen by ye free and open Elections of ye freemen in ye Respective Counties of this Province and Councill of warr Humbly traceing ye Stepps and Laying hold of ye Encouragement given by So Royall an Example have as farr as in us Lyed Prevented ye Rageing Intrest of ye Roman Catholic Party and there adherents in this Province and not only asserted the Right of our: new Soveraigne but Reduced most of ye Dissafected to their obedience and Establisht his Majes Interest upon So Sure a foundation yt from thence already we fynde the fruits of Tranquility and Peace, So we doubt not, but all yt are willing to be Esteemed of ye Reformation will Comply with ye Same-; and to ye Intent that none of his Majes forts or Subjects should be Fxposed where apparent fears and Dangers of his Professed enemies doth Threaten them as wee are made Sencible by yours of ye County of albany, we have sent 50 men with arms suteable, which doubt not but will bee of Seasonable use for Defence of ye Same, and have given full Power to our Trusty and Beloved friende Jacob Milborne gentn to treat with Consult, order doe and Performe all things that shall be Requisite for his Majes Service & yr Safety to whom we Desyre yu will give Credence and treat amicably that soe we may not occasion ye Enemy to Scandalize us with or take any advantage of Disputes and Differences amongst us, Especially when we are upon Such good Terms of breaking of Papist and arbitrary Yokes from our necks forever. This all at p'sent from yr Loveing friendes. Samuel Edsall Jacob Leysler junr Pietr de Lanoy 116 ADMINISTRATION OF Pieter demilt Gerardus Beekman Joh: Beekman Myndt Corten John Slott Mathew harvey hendrick ten Eyck Johannes Vr melie Jh: Bruyns Jacob Leysler Is: d Riemer Henry Cuyler Jean Desmareest Richard Panton David Clerk Adriaen van Schaik Teunis Roelofse is Gerrit Duyking Teunis J\Roelofse his Joh: de Peyster marke William Churchill Sjort olpherse After ye abovesaid Letter was Read ye Recordr askd Jacob Milborne if he Pleased to have ye People quartered which lay aboard, Since ye Billets were Ready who answered no, But desyred Some Provision which was graunted & so Parted yt night. Memorandum that on ye 10th day of Novembr being Sunday The following letter was Sent by Adam Vroman of Shinnectady to ye Mayr which Milborne had sent to him to warne all ye People there forthwith to come to albany and Receive there Rights Priviledges and Liberties in such manner as if the governmt of king James ye 2d never had been, or any of his arbitrary Commissions or what is Illegally done by his governours never had been done or Past, which Letter follows in Terminis:[Translation.] Whereas I am authorized by the Honble Delegates or Members elected at a Free and Publick Election of the Freemen and Respective counties of the Province of N. York and Military Council thereof, to arrange and settle the affairs of the City & County of Albany according to the Constitution of the other Counties of the Province aforesaid pursuant to the interest of His Majesty our Sovereign Lord & King and the Welfare of the Inhabitants of said Counties. These are to advise and require all the Inhabitants of Schinnec tady and adjoining places to repair forthwith to the aforesaid City of Albany to receive their Rights and Priviledges & Liberties in LIEUT. GOV. LEISLER. 117 such manner as if the Government of King James the 2d had never existed or any of his arbitrary Commissions or any of his Governors illegal acts had never been executed or done. Signed JACOB MILBOURaNE Upon which Adam Vroman sent him this answer:[Translation.] MR JACOB MILBORNE. Worthy Friend-I have just now received your letter. Firstly, I am not a person of quality; Secondly, the Indians lie in divers squads in and around this place and should we all repair to Albany great disquiet would arise among the Savages to the general ruin of this Country; therefore please excuse me as I am a person of no power nor authority. Your affectionate friend ADAM VROOMAN. By which letter it is Plainly Evident ye sd Milborne Designs ye Subversion of ye governmt Confirmed by there Majts Proclamation of ye 14th feb. last, and thereby to Disturb ye Peace and Tranquility of there MajeS Leige People Especially in this Juncture when the Indians are Round about us, who much Depend on the Present Magistracy that have with So much trouble Pains and Cost Secured them to this governmt which if they should see yt ye authority here should be troden under foot would undoubtedly undertake Some Dangerous Design And that it may be apparent to ye world yt ye Design was Laid at N: Yorke, ye following Letter writt by hend: Cuyler one of there Councill of warr as they Term themselfs, to ye People of Schinnectady Desyreing there assistance, and that they would come to albany, Telling them itt was Resolved upon that they should have no lesser Priviledges then they of albany, both in Tradeing and boalting which Jacob Milborne would Disclose unto them and Such like false notions doth Sufficiently Demonstrate[Translation.] N. Yorke 2 Novembr 1689 Copia vera of a Letter from London All Lands Plantations houses and Lots which were escheated [prys gemaekt] since the year 1660 are again restored by Act of 118 ADMINISTRATION OF Parliament. It was communicated to his Majesty who approved of it. It will be passed in a few days. Parliament is resolved to make a public example of Sr Edmund Andros to the next Generation on account of his Arbitrary illegal proceedings. I break off herewith as it is too long to enlarge upon. Hearty respects to all Noble friends of Shinnechtady. This goes per Mr Vedders hand. I remain Your friend & Servant HEND: CUYLER P. S. We earnestly request the aid and diligence of the Noble gentlemen there for the promotion of the Public Good in assisting those whom we now Send up at Albany's request being to the number of 50 men, of whom Jochim Staets is Commander; not doubting but the gentlemen of Shennechtady will be preferred to those of Albany in the approaching New Government as we pledge ourselves to speak in favor of your Diligence. I promise to send up to you the first Order which we expect from England. We expect a short answer from You by the next opportunity. Sir, We have this day resolved that you shall have no less Privileges than those of Albany in Trading and Bolting which Mr Milborne will explain to you. We therefore request that you will exhibit all Dilligence in repairing together to Albany to welcome said Milborne. STORES out of his Maties Garrison of New Yorke for his sd Maties Service in an Expedic6n to Albany Novembr 2 1689 100 Bulletts divers Calibre 16 hand Grenadoes 2 quires Cartouch paper 8 half & 2 whole barrells powder 3 half barrels do lOlb loose powder 1 bunch Match & Lintstock A Krygs Jack (a flag.) 100 flints 47 ffire lockes & Bandelier-wth 1 halbert 1 Pike heading 1 Drum LIEUT. GOV. LEISLER. 119 Kiliaen van Renselaer Esqr Justice of ye Peace and Capt gerrit TeutEise who were sent by ye Convention to ye Collony of Conetticut concerning ye men which thatt Collony by ye joynt Concurrence of ye Collony of Massachusetts had Promised to send hither ifor our assistance being Returned brings a letter from ye govr &.Councill there,- how that they are Resolved to Raise 80 men wth there offcers forthwith, that they may be upon there march hither upon rmunday ye 18th of novembr The Agreement Concluded upon between ye governr and Councill of Conetticut.and our agents are as.follows. That we are to afford there Souldiers and officers ammonition meet Drink and Lodgeing Sufficient That we are to pay to ye officers 8 shil. a day vizt To ye Capt. 4 sh. 6 ) To.ye:Leift. 2 sh to be pd weekly To ye Ens: 1 sh6d ) If.any of sd officers or. Souldiers should be visited with Sicknesse or wounde, ye Charge of attendance Phisick and Doctors should be borne by us. That we are to -Provide a Canoe to carry ye Company over Westenhook River That ye Souldiers arms be Repaired at our Charge if occasion Which agreement was approven off by ye Convention. The Said. Mr Renselaer & Capt Teunise Report that when they comee by kinderhook founde ye People Very much Inclined to mutiny who were Prepareing themselfs to come hither by Reason of.aLetter which they had.Received of Jacob Milborne to come up -to.aliny in all Speed to Receive Priviledges.and Libertyes, So yt they: had much-adoe to stop them however some Came. 120 ADMINISTRATION OF Att a Convention &c. Albany in ye Citty hall Die Sabbathi 10th novembr Past merid: Ao Dom: 1689 Present. Dirk wessels Recordr C. John wendel Livinus van Shaik C. Jan Janse Bleeker Claes Rysse David Schuyler albt Ryckman C. Marte gerritse C. gert Teunise kill: v. Renselaer Capt Sanderglen Reynier Barentse Ev. Banker Johannes Cuyler Jan nack Eghbert Teunise gerrit Ryerse Sweer Teunise L: van Eps Ens: Joh: Sanders L: Robt Sanders Ens: gabriel Thompson The Convention being met together at the Citty hall Jacob Milborne was Sent for, the Recordr Dirk wessells assumed ye Discourse and told that he had Received a Letter yesterday of ye sd Milborne directed to ye Military and Civill officers and Inhabitants of ye Citty and County of albany, but ye Convention not being full ye Bussinesse was Delayed till to day which was Read being Signed by 25 Persones wherein was Inserted that there were 51 men Sent hither for our assistance, the Said Milborne was asked upon whose Cost and charge ye men were come, and who were to pay them there pay, Jacob Milborne answered, that we of albany must pay them, and that they were hyred at 25 shil pr month, the Recordr Replyed that that was Repugnant to there Resolution and letter sent to N: Yorke ye 4th of Septembr Last which ye sd Milborne Perruseing founde to be soe, & askd all ye People Standing by if they thougt ye County of albany would be able to pay yt Charge, who all unanimously answered no; upon which ye sd Milborne said Then we shall fynde a way for it, and showed ye Convention his Commission Signed and Sealed by 6 or 27 Persones ye Same that Signed ye letter which was Read: The Recordrtold him that Such a Commission graunted by a Company of Private men was of no force here, and that he had no Power to doe or order any affaires in albany, but if he could LIEUT. GOV. LEISLER. 121 shew a Commission from his Mats king william our Liege Lord then were willing to obey it The Sd Milborne went on and made a long oration to ye Common People which were got together in ye Citty hall of Popish government and arbitrary Power Condemning all things which had been done and Passed in ye late King James Stuarts time Particularly ye Charter of this Citty and that there ought to be a new Election of Magistrates &a and many oyr things to Stirr up ye Common People, upon which he was told that if all things were null & void wh were passed in King James time then ye Inhabitants were in a Desolate Condition, Since many Patents of houses and lands were obtained in ye Late Kiig James time, which undoubtedly will be approved and Confirmed by there Majts now upon ye Throne, and that there had been a free Election according to ye Charter and further that they Plainly did Discern yt ye Sd Milborne by his Smooth tongue & Pretended Commissions did aim nothing else but to Raise mutiny and Sedition amongst ye People which ye Convention had with So much trouble these Six monthes Last Past kept in Peace and quietnesse Expecting dayly order from there Majts King William and Queen Mary and that they had not Spared cost or charge to Secure ye Indians to this government, of which there neighbors could give a Sufficient Testimony, and therefore, if things were Carried on as Milborne would have it, all would Runn into Confusion with ye Indians all authority turned Upside Doune as in many Parts of ye governmt was done, to which ye Convention by no means could Condeshend, but were Resolved to be quiet & in Peace if Possible till ye Long expected orders from there Majts should come to hand under whom they acted, and therefore desyred ye sd Milborne to desist from Such Discourse, for that they would Dispute no more with him about it, leaveing all till a Lawfull Power came, nott acknowlegeing him to have any, and that they should Proceed to discourse of quartering ye men who endured so much hardship by Lyeing aboard, upon which it was Concluded to meet again in ye morning about 9 a Clock to aggree about ye quartering of e 51 men Sent for our assistance. 122 ADMINISTRATION OF MEMORANDUM That Kiliaen van Renselaer Capt gerrit Teunise Capt Sander Glenn Leift. Jan van Eps Ens: Johannes Sanders & Sweer Teunise members of ye Convention did approve of ye order made ye 7th & 8th Instant that Pr Schuyler Mayr should have ye Command of there Maje3 fort till orders from there Majes king William & Queen Mary Die Lunae 11 novembr 1689 The Convention were Intended to goe to ye Citty hall but understanding that there was so great a multitude of People assembled together there in an Illegal manner to choose one Jochim Staas Leift off one of ye Train bande Companies of this Citty under Capt. Wendel to be Capt of yt Compe of Souldiers come from N: Yorke, They stayd att ye Recordrs house Endeavouring to agree with Jacob Milborne about ye quartering of ye men, the sd Milborne Proposeing Some articles which were answered by ye Convention and sent him by Capt Marte Gerritse Livinus Van Schaik & Johannes Cuyler, but ye sd Milborne Insisting to have ye sd men to be under a Superior officer who was to be Commander of ye fort, Distinct from the Civill function, and that then he should fynde a way to pay ye men, which ye Convention by:no means would Condeshend, but yt sd men should be under ye Command of ye Convention till orders came from there Majes otherwise could expect no assistance from them, which answer was sent him by ye sd Capt gerritse alderman Schaik & Johannes Cuyler assistant. In ye meantime the Convention sent messengers thrice to ye People Convened att ye Citty hall to Disperse themselfs and goe home, they nevertheless went on and choose ye sd Jochim Staets to be Capt of yt Compe come from N: Yorke by syneing there:names to near a.hundred Persones, most youthes, and them that were no freeholders which sd Place ye sd Jochim Staets did accept contrare to ye order of ye Convention of which he was a member Yea ye People were so Rageing and mutinous that some of ye Convention being in ye Citty hall, were forced to withdraw LIEUTJ. GOV. LEISLER. "23 themselfs being threatened and menaced that they were in danger of there life, all which was occasioned by ye Instigation of Jacob Milborie who is combe'hither with no oyr Design then to overthrow all, as Plainly'appearss by all his actions Deludeing ye Common People by Promiseing them Priviledges and libertyes arid:sch ke fe false noins and Suggestions endeavouring to draw ye People off from there obedience due to there Lawfull authority Confirmed by there now Majes William & Mary and to'fiil this Citty and County with Di visions Jfactions and Sedition to yeutter Ru-ie of ye^ saime Especially in this juncture while we are Surrouinded With ye heathen who Seing such Divisions may undertake some Desperate- Design -and Bieaike there Co'venant with us kept so many Yeiars InviolableThe Convention being met together in ye fort Senft Johannes Cuyler Ens: Joh: Sanders & Ens: abr: Schuyler to Leift Jochim Staets to know ye Certainty, if he had accepted of ye Capt. Place by Virtue of such an Illegal assembly or meeting of ye People chooseing him so who made answer [Record is blank herel This afternoon hend: ten Eyck was Sent by Jacob Milborite with this following Paper to ye Convention Vizt Albany novenibr ye:lth i-89 Whereas I am authorized by ye Committee for'the-Province of N: Yorke and ye Councill of warr for ye Sd Citty of N: Yorke aforesaid to order ye affaires att albany, and in Pursuance thereof have made'knowne there Demands unto ye Convention (or as many as would appear) in ye Toune house and e Rest of ye Inhabitants according to Direction of a letter there Delivered and fynde no Satisfaction to my Proposealls, likewise haveing Discoursed some Points more Particularly with them, whereupon it was apointed yt I should Present ye Same in writeing this afternoon accordingly I offer Vizt That there should be a free and open Election for all officers both Civill and Military for ye Citty and County of Albany if it hath not been already done 124 ADMINISTRATION OF That a Person should be chosen to Command ye Kings fort Distinct from ye Civill function, That the articles for ye men brought hither may be signed That they would Consider of some Particulars Relateing Mr Thomas Sharpes Letter That they would Produce there Evidence for grounding there Resolution which Mss Livinus Van Schaick & Jochim Staas were to Enform themselfs off, and act as thereby was ordered That they would Returne me all ye old armes in the fort which are unfixed in lieu off (or so many) as ye arms furnished ye men withall at N: Yorke That they would Please lett me know what Stores they have for his Majes service in his fort, or can command upon an attaque of ye french which god forbidd Signed JACOB MILBORNE Die Martis 12 of Novembr 1689 The Convention met together at ye house of Capt Jan Janse Bleeker where it was unanimously Resolved to accept of ye 50 men come from N: Yorke on no oyr terms Then that they should be under ye Command of the Convention, and Since ye members of ye Convention were So many it was Resolved yt Eight should be nominate who should Represent ye Convention and Sign the articles with Jacob Milborne, as by ye articles can be showne with which Resolution Capt Marte gerritse Livinus van Schaik & Johannes Cuyler were sent to Jacob Milborne who Returning to ye Convention Reported they had agreed upon ye articles which ware ordered to be drawn over fair The Convention considering ye many Inconveniences that would Ensue by Jochim Staets takeing upon himself the office of Capt of that Company that came from N: Yorke by such an Irregular way as was Practised yesterday by the Common People in ye Citty hall proposed to him ye said Captns Place till orders from there Majes Provided he would be obedient to ye Convention or authority of this Place, yt so by that means all jealousies and animosities may be laide aside and Peace & Unity Established, & all to goe hand in hand to defend their Majes Interest, butt ye Sd Jochim Staas did flattly Refuse itt. LIEUT. GOV. LEISLER. 126 Post Meridiem The eight men appointed by ye Convention to Sign the articles with mr. Milborne to witt, Pieter Schuyler Mayr Capt. Johannes Wendel Capt. Jan Bleeker kiliaen van Renselaer Capt Sander glenn, albert Ryckman, gerrit Ryerse & Evert Banker, went to ye house of Richd Pretty where sd Milborne was (Except the Mayor who had Signed already) and asked if he would sign ye articles, who denyed to have made any such articles Wvhich caused many Debates, and yt ye sd Milborne agreed upon ye Point in ye Presence of sd Gentlemen; Milborne correcting the Paper himself, & was aggreed to make no more Alterations, but to be writ over fair & Signed in ye morning making his excuse that he could not attend itt that night. While ye sd Wendel and Bleeker were att Mr Prettyes they were sent for to come to gabriel Thornsones where a great Compe of People were met together they sent ye sd 2 Captns Wendell & Bleeker up with a Message to ye fort to ye Mayor yt ye People were Resolved if he came not into Toune to choose new military officers. Die Mercury 13 Novembr 1689 Johannes Cuyler and abraham Schuyler were Sent to Jacob Milborne with ye following articles which were Concluded the day before, to Enquire if he was ready to sign them ye oyr Gentn being Ready, Vizt ARTICLES made concerning ye Receiving of - - - - men officers and Centinells Sent by ye Military officers of ye Citty & County of N: Yorke upon ye Desyre of ye Mayr aldermen Commonality and Military officers of ye sd County for ye Security of there Majes fort and ye out Plantations and Inhabitants of ye Citty & County of albany against any forreign or Domestick Enemies that shall Invade oppose or resist there Majes king William & queen Maryes Intrest, which ye Subscribers as Representatives for ye Mayr aldermen Commonality and Military officers of ye Citty of albany and the Justices and Military officers of sd County doe hereby oblige to Performe these undermentioned articles 1 That ye officers and Souldiers shall obey and Performe Such '126 ADMINISTRATION OF Commands and Directions as they shall Receive from time to time from ye Eight underwritten Persones 2 That ye sd Eight Subscribers shall quarter ye sd officers and Souldiers as they shall see Convenient in the Citty & County of albany who shall be well fedd Decently Lodged according to there quality, Becomeing Persones in such Service att ye Proper cost and charge of ye Citty & County of albany 3 That they shalL not be Exposed to any harder Service or any wise more Irregularly treated then ye Rest of ye men raised for ye same Purpose 4 That they shall Remain in sd Service from ye 9th of novembr 1689 untill the 25th day of March as aforesaid next ensueing or orders from there Maje for longer Continuance, dureing which time from there Reception to ye 25th day of March as aforesd they shall and must Expect there Pay or wages from them who sent them 5 That they shall be Particularly reguarded if any happen to. be sick or Lame, or any ways Distempered according to Christian Care of Phisick and Requisite attendance 6 That ye sd men are not to choose any officers over themselfs but such officers as are already come up with them 7 That ye Sd Eight Underwriters shall be obliged to pay ye Passage of ye sd men to N: Yorke thus Concluded in albany ye 13th day of novembr 1689 The said Jacob Milborne said he had forgott some words which must be Inserted, Particularly ye word Committee, and also would first have an answer upon his Proposealls which he Delivered on Munday Last before he would Sign ye articles, yt sd Cuyler and Schuyler told him they could make no alteration without ye Convention,'but yt ye answer to his Proposealls was Ready and Signd and would be Delivered as soon as he signed the articles but not before LIEUT. GOV. LEISLER. 127 The Convention of Albanye's answer to Jacob Milbornes Proposealls which was to be Deliverd as soon as he Signd ye articles about ye men-, else not That they being ye Lawfull Civill and Military officers of ye Citty & County of albany, and accordingly Since ye Proclamation of there Majes William & Mary king & queen of England &c. in. this Citty, have acted in there Respective Stations without ye Least hinderance or obstruction from any Person,: who are Resolved with ye assistance of god so to continue till orders comes from there most Sacred Majes when they will be ready & willing to give an acc't of all there actions during these Revolutions to such Person or Persons as there Majes shall be Pleased to Send hither for yt purpose, thinking themselfs no ways obliged to article with or Render any account of there Proceedings to any Person Except they have Commission from there Majes now upon ye Throne, which we long have Expected and waited for, & still with Patience shall waite till god shall please to send it from England from there Majes king William and queen Mary whom god Long Preserve And if ye sd Milborne hath any Ammunitionbelonging to there Majes Stores, ye Convention Desyres he would Land it, and let them have it for there Majes fort they are willing to give a Receit for ye same Signd PR SCHUYLER Mayor CLAES RIPsE VAN DAM alderm. alb: 13 novembr 1689 SANDER GLENN Justice K: V: RENSELAER Justice REYNIER BARENTS assist The Convention haveing heard ye Report brougt them by Johannes Cuyler & abraham Schuyler, were willing to come to an accommodation if Possible & Resolved to graunt yt ye word Committee might be Inserted & was also Resolved if ye sd Milborne then Denyed to Sign ye articles to Deliver him over this following Paper 128;.i-l'F.AD IN I'! S'R. TION OF NMr. AcOB MILBORNE Wee are sorry you should give yr.;elf and us so much trouble concerning ye Receiving iand Quartering of the fifty men Sent up hither by ye gent: of N: Yo-rke if therefore there and yr Intentions be good & Reall f' } - C S`ecurity of there Majes king William & queen Marys Intrest a:-nl.d the Safety of there Subjects here wherefore Il-iy wetre sen? Thean y Convention Expect yu will Comply with ye an.oexed rti:ces which we declare was after many debates fully Concludtle ad al rv ac;d upon Yesterday, & this is ye Last Resolution wh;ich i Covention can take in yt Subject, neither will they Pmro ed it anry further answers till this Bussinesse be Ended Sifnd Fort albany ye 13 of nov - pr SCHUYLER Mayor 1689 in ye name of ye Convention of albany The Sd Johanners; C;ver an.c a-brt- rham Schuyler were sent ye 2d time with ye articlis to Jacob,' ilborne who told him yt ye word Committee as t}hey c lled tliemselfs was graunted, & if he was Ready to Sign, b-:t a.ens'weread he would not Sign ye articles with many absu:.e? wo:is as ye sd 2 persones doe Relate upon which they delivered him ye abocrVesl Paper. This day Jacob Milborne caused ye Compe of Souldiers Come from N: Yorke, which for 2 nights Past had Lyen at Marte gerritse-s Island to march into Towne & ye Burgers of yt faction Received them in there hol,scs without billeting or lawfull authority. Die Jovis ye 14th of novembr 1689 The Mayor came doune to Towne and went with ye Con vention to ye Citty hall, where ye Burgers forthwith appeared and there did Declare ye Rasons why he had Secured there Majes fort (since he had heard that diverse were Dissatisfyed at his so doing) vizt that he had Received Sufficient and Credible Information from N: Yorke, Especially from alderman Schaick who was in there Meeting of there Committe as they call it at N: Y: where he heard Jacob Milborne say he would goe to Alb. and see ye fort better Secured, Shewing them further three Testimonyes Sworne to, by which it (lid Evidently appear it was Concluded LIEUT. GOV. LEISLER. 129 upon to make an absolute change of government, to carry some Persones Prisoners to N: Yorke, and so to make a generall disturbance among ye People, and force us to Comply with there new fashioned governmt Declareing further that he had Sent ye Recorder from time to time with ye oyr members of ye Convention to Discourse with Milborne Concerning ye Receiving of 50 Souldiers, & to enquire with what Power and authority he came here Upon which ye Recorder Put them in minde of ye Discourse Past between him and Milborne on Sunday's night concerning his authority, when it was Concluded upon to Consult next day about ye Receiveing and quartering of Sd Compe of men whereabouts they had been in agitation till now; but See yt ye Said Milborne is no ways Inclined to come to any agreemt Since it was Positively Concluded upon, but when it came to Signing founde always Exceptions three Severall times which was ye Reason ye Convention did not meet Sooner at ye Citty hall, upon wh ye articles was read concerning ye quartering of ye 50 Souldiers which Pleased ye Burgers very well and wished they might be Signed; and Milborne being fetched was asked if Such articles were not Concluded upon who Confessed Yess but that he had given some Proposealls to ye Convention, which he first would have answered and then Sign to ye articles. But ye Convention Replyed yt he had Delivered ye articles concerning ye quartering ye men on munday morning & ye Proposealls on Munday afternoon, and was therefore fitting that first an Issue should be made of ye articles before an answer be given to ye Proposealls, and yt ye answer to ye Proposealls was Ready to be delivered assoon as he had Signd to ye articles, But Refused in ye p'sence of Twelve men whom ye People had chosen to be Present to hear ye Debates between ye Convention and ye sd Mlilborne; whereupon a Certain Paper was Read wh had been Delivered to ye sd Milborne ye day before, ye Purport of which was that they were not Designed to give him any answer to his Proposealls before he had Signd to ye articles which was approved off by sd 12 men Since it was Plainly Demonstrate how ye sd milborne had from time to time intended to Delay and Deceive them as by ye Testimoneys can appear VOL. II. 9 130 ADMINISTRATION OF The Convention Said to ye sd 12 men that they had used there uttmost Endeavors, & asked if they could Propose or think of any better means or method they would doe well to tell them, and Desyred them to Consult about ye matter upon which after Consultation they Deputed three of ye 12 men to witt Harme gansevoort Pr van waggelum and Jeronimus wendell who made Report to ye Convention then all together at ye Mayors house at Least Eighteen in number Harme gansevoort being there Speaker, That they Concurrd with ye Convention and yt ye sd Milborne ought to Sign ye articles and that ye Convention could doe no more then they had (done Referring further the mannagement of that affaire to ye generall Convention Since they were Resolved to trouble themselfs no mnore about it. Die Veneris 15th of novembr 1689 Itt is orderd to be Entred how yt Jacob Milborne came to there Majes fort of albany on ye 15th day of novemb 1689 with a Cornpe of armed men, who upon his approach was charged by a messenger sent a Purpose not to come without ye gates of ye Citty nevertheless Marchd up and made Demand of there Maje8 fort who was answered by ye XMayr Pieter Schuyler Esqr Commander of ye sd fort, Thatt he kept ye Same for there Majes king king william & queen mary, & Commanded them away in there Majes name with his Seditious Company; wfo after he had attempted to gett into ye gate haveing one foot in was thrust out withdrew himself & Compe to within ye gates of ye Citty, and there Putt up ye Kings Jack facing to ye fort, and Jacob Milborne after he had charged them to Load there gunns with Bullets came to ye Citty gate & Read a Paper. A Company of Maquase who were come here for ye assistance of there Majes Subjects Standing upon ye hill neer ye fort and being Spectators to all these tumolts Sent word by hille Pieterse ye Interpreters Sister to ye fort to acquaint ye Mayr and ye oyr gent1n that Since they were in a firm Covenant chain with us, and Seeing yt ye People of N: Yorke came in a hostile manner to Disturbe their Brethren in ye fort which was for our and there Defence, Desyred yt ye said hille should tell them if any of LIEUT. GOV. LEISLER. 131 those men came without ye gates to approach ye fort they would fyre upon them and charged there gunns, Upon which the members of ye Convention then p'sent in ye fort caused this following Protest to be Read off one of ye Mounts Fort albany ye 15th day of novembr 1689 Whereas one Jacob Milborne hath with a Compe of armed men, come up to there Majes fort in a hostile manner with full arms and Demanded Possession thereof from ye Mayr of ye Citty who has ye Command of ye same, who Declared to keep said fort for there Majes William & Mary untill there orders comes but ye said Jacob Milborne as a Tumultuous & Mutinous Person doth Proceed to occasion great Disturbance to there Majes Liege People, by again faceing to ye fort with Loaden arms, Especially so many heathens to witt Maquase being ye Spectators thereof who seems to be upon ye Point to undertake some Dangerous Design, The Convention of ye Civil & Military officers of ye Citty & County of albany now p'sent in ye fort doe therefore Protest hereby in their Majes King William & Queen Maryes name before god and ye world against ye sd Milborne and his Seditious Troops, for all Dammages Murthers Bloodsheds Plunderings and oyr mischieffs which may Ensue by his Rebellious actions and charge him & them forthwith to withdraw themselves from there sd Mayes fort pr SCHUYLER Mayr and Commander of there Majes fort The Protest being Read hille akus Sister told yt ye Indians were very much Dissatisfyed & if Milborne did not withdraw with his Compe they would fyre upon him, whereupon ye Mayr Desyred Doctor Dellius & ye Recorder to goe to ye Indians to Pacify and quiet them for ye Bussinesse was yt a Person without Power or authority would be Master over ye gentn here which they would nott admitt; the Indians answered goe and tell him that if he come out of ye gates we will fyre upon him, which Doctor Dellius forthwith Communicated to ye sd Milborne at ye head of his Compe in ye Presence of a great many Burgers who 132 ADMINISTRATION OF made no further attempt to goe to ye fort, but Marched doune ye towne and Dismissed his men Die Saturni ye 16th of novembr A~ 1689 Notwithstanding yt ye 1Burgers according to their Duty had Referred ye Bussinesse concerning ye quartering of ye Souldiers to ye Convention on ye 14th instant neverthelesse by ye Perswasion of Jacob Milborne some of ye Inhabitants gathered together att ye house of Gabriel Thompson, where Sundrey of ye Very same Persones appeard who were Deputed by the People Two days agoe to acquaint ye Convention that they Referred ye management of yt affaire wholly to them And these following Persones to witt Harme Gansevoort Pieter Bogardus Myndt harmense Dirk Bensing and pr Van Waggelum Private but Extream active men in these Revolutions have taken upon them to sign a Contract with ye sd Milborne concerning ye sd Compe of Souldiers, not only without ye least knowledge or Intimation of ye Convention but after they were warned to ye contrary who took upon them ye Charge as overseers of sd Compe together wth Jochim Staets who was made there Captain, who with much Perswasion of sd Milborne at last was accepted by ye men to be there Capt ye sd Milborne went away leaving said Company here in such Confusion. Die Lunca 25 novembris 1689 Capt Bull arrived at ye Green Bush with 87 men from N: England on Teusday following marched with flying Collors into Citty where he was Recd by ye Mayr & aldermen att ye gate & bid welcom, he Drew up his men in ye midle of ye Broad Street gave three volleys & was answerd by 3 gunns from ye fort ye men were orderly quartered in ye Citty and extreamly well accepted. The 29 day of novembr 1689 Leift Enos Talmadge of Capt Buls Company marchd wth 24 men to Shinnectady to keep yt Post as it was agreed upon by ye 5 gentlemen appointed by ye Convention & ye Capt Bull & Jochim Staets, L1EUT. GOV. LEISLER. 133 Whereas Ensign abraham Janse is ordered to convey three men with thirty horses to woodberry who came here with ye Souldiers sent hither for there Majes Service These are in there Majes name King Wm and Queen Mary to will and Require all there Majes Subjects of this County of albany and to Desyre all there Majes Subjects in ye neighbouring Counties and Collony to be aideing and assisting to ye sd Ensign and three men in ye Prosecution of there journey and to furnish them with such necessaries as they and there horses shall have occasion upon sd Journey being for there Majes Service given att ye Citty hall of albany ye 26th day of novembr in ye first year of there Majes Reign Ao 1689 pr SCHUYLYR Justice of ye Peace By the Mayor aldermen and Commonality and Military officers of ye Citty of albany and Justices of ye Peace and Military officers of ye sd County Wee haveing taken into Consideration ye Lamentable Condition of this Citty and County, occasioned by a dreadfull warr threatened from without, of which our neighbours and allyes have already felt ye smart, as also ye manifold Divisions and factions which are amongst ye Inhabitants within, which are fatall Tokens for Land & Church, It is therefore thought Convenient to keep a Day Extraordinary for fasting & Prayer upon Weddensday ye 4th of Decembr 1689 to Pray to almighty God (whose wrath and anger for our manifold Sinns and transgressions is Righteously kindled against us) for Pardon and Remission of our Sinns and to free us from ye blody Sworde of our Enemies without and Espe cially from ye Inhuman Barbarity of ye heathen, and on ye oyr side to bynde ye hearts and mindes of ye People within, with Love and unity to ye Praise of almighty God and ye welfare of ye Church and Country, Prohibiting therefore upon sd day all manner of servile worke all Rideing Playing or oyr sorts of Recreation which may hinder or obstruct ye worship of God that day Chargeing and Commanding Expressly all ye Inhabitants of this Citty & County to keep ye said fast day most Solemnly, Thus given att ye Citty hall of albany at a meeting of ye Convention ye 27th day of novembr 1689 in ye first year of there Majes Reign God Save King William & queen Mary 134 ADMINISTRATION OF Capt. Sander glenn Leift John van Eps & Ens: Joh: Sanders took ye oath of fidelity to there Majes before pr Schuyler Mayr Justice of ye Peace Att a Convention &c. albany ye 28th day of Novembr 1689 It was thought Convenient by ye Convention yt 5 of there members should be appointed to have a Conference with Capt Jonathan Bull & Mr Jochim Staets concerning ye Souldiers they have under there Command here in Toune. And for that Purpose were nominated Dirk Wessells Capt Marte gerritse Livinus Van Schaick Capt Sander glenn & Johannes Cuyler who in ye behalfe of ye Convention told them they had Two Companies Lyeing in ye Toune and yt ye out Plantations were not secured where ye Enemy first must be expected as Shinnectady half moon and Canastagioene, Desyred them to consider yt some men might be sent thither with all Expedition, upon which Capt Bull Proposed to Mr. Jochim Staets to take tenn men out of his Company & ye said Capt Bull would take Twenty men of his Company make in all 30 men & send to Shinnectady, upon which Mr. Staets answered he was but weake had but 46 or 47 men, & he would not breake his files he must at least keep 10 files, upon wh Capt Bull Replyed yt he could not Expect that they would always be compleat for sicknesse and diverse oyr accidents might happen, Mr. Staets Proposed yt Capt Bull should send 24 men to Shinnectady & yt he Staets would joyn six of his Compe with six of Capt Bulls men to goe and lye at ye half moon & yt by Turns one should have ye Command 14 days & then the oyr whereupon Dirk Wessells answered that there was no quarters for 12 men at ye half moon but that some men might goe to Canastagioene where 6 could be conveniently quarterd and yt was a Dangerous Passe also But Capt Bull said he did not care to have his men so Scattered about. The sd Gent: told Mr Staes that ye Convention were Desyreous to know upon what acct that N: Yorke Compe lay there & if he would submitt himself to them Since they had not seen hit Commission, he answerd he could not doe that since there were oyr overseers or weesfaders as he termed them appointed over his LIEUT. GOV. LEISLER. 135 men, but he Promised & would Swear yt nothing should be acted or done by him against ye Convention althogh new orders did come, & desyred yt ye Convention would advise and Consult with these overseers upon which they answerd that there was many Dissentions in ye Place already & by such Confusion and so many masters ye Contention would augment and Increase, Mr Staets Replied it is now so we must doe as well as we can Joh: Cuyler asked to see his Commission but Refused to show it and so broke off from yt discourse and Returned to ye former Proposealls concerning ye Sending out men to garrison ye out Plantations; & it was finally Concluded that 24 men of Capt Bulls Compe should goe to Shinnectady and 6 of his men to Paepsknee & of Mr. Jochim Staets men 6 to ye half moon And as Justices of ye Peace they desyred ye Commission officers to call a Court Marshall in ye afternoon to setle ye watch in ye Toune yt all Things may goe Regularly as was done But that which was concluded upon on ye forenoon was alterd by some of ye Military officers in there meeting unknown to ye 5 gentn Vizt yt Mr Staets should send of his men ten to Shinnectady & Capt Bull 20, but took no care for ye half moon as was concluded upon by ye Commissioners of ye gen1 Cenvention Nevertheless yt which was Concluded upon by ye Deputies of ye Convention & Capt Bull and Mr Staets was thougt fitt by ye Convention to be Performed & Capt Bull accordingly sent his Leift wth 24 men to Shinnectady to keep that post but Mr Staets would send out no men as was agreed upon, but went to Shinnectady with some oyrS of yt faction, Insomuch yt ye Mayr himself & some oyr gent: were necessitated to goe thither to see ye men of Capt Bulls Compe quartered 136 ADMINISTRATION OF Att a Convention &c. Albany 14th Decembr 1689 Present pr Schuyler Mayr David Schuyler D. Wessells Recordr Evert Banker Joh: Wendell Reynier Barentse Liv V. Schaik Joh: Cuyler Jan Bleeker Gert Ryerse Claes Ripse Kiliaen V. Renselaer Albt Ryckman C. Marte gerritse Resolved yt some money be Raised by way of Loan for ye Paying of Capt Bull & ye oyr 2 Commission officers come from Canetticut according to Contract who are to have 8 shil pr diem upon which ye Recorder & Mr van Renselaer were sent to Mrs. Schuyler who is willing to advance ~18: for a month without Intrest but if it be not Replid in sd Time to have moderate intrest & yt shee may have a Bonde for ye Payment of ye Same upon which this following Bill was orderd to be writt KNOW all men by these Presents yt we whose names are underwritten members of ye Convention of albany doe acknowlege to have Reed of Mrs. Margret Schuyler ye Somme of Eighteen Pounds Courant money of this Province which is toward ye payment of Capt Bull and ye oyr Commission officers come from Canetticut according to Contract which sd Somme if it be pd in ye Space of a month after ye date hereof then no Intrest is to be paid but if it be not justly & honestly Paid & Satisfied to ye d Mrs. Margret Schuyler her heirs Executors adrs or assigns in ye Space of a month after ye date hereof, then we whose names are hereunto Subscrib;' doe Promise Engage and oblige ourselfs joyntly and severally our heirs Excrs and adrs and every of ym firmly by these p'sents to pay or cause to be paid unto ye sd Mrs. Margret Schuyler her heirs Executors administrators & asssigns ye sd Somme of ~18:-wth ye Interest of ye same at pr cento to be Reckond from ye 18 of January next. In witnesse whereof we have hereunto sett our hands in albany ye day of Decembr 1689 Resolved yt Dirk albertse Bratt and hendrik gerritse be sent for from Sarachtoge. LIEUT. GOV. LEISLER. 137 [Translation.] Albany 16th Decembr 1689 The Albany Convention having received the following news it is sent from the Mohawk Sachems by post to Akus to be forwarded to us. 1. That 10 Nations of Twigh Twighs are coming to the 5 Nations to destroy them. 2. That two of the Indian prisoners who were sent to France have returned back home, who say that Ambassadors must come to Canida. 3. That the Oonondages have sent for the Mohawk warriors and Sachems and that they must bring belts with them. 4. That the Mohawk prisoners were to France with the Cowherd who was taken prisoner at Onnondage. 5. That Cadarachqui is abandoned by the French. Whereupon the gentlemen resolved to send Lawrence alias Jannetje the Indian to Onnondage to learn the truth hereof, and to forbid them in our name to send Ambassadors to Canida or to receive any according to our Treaty-not to trust the French, and if they let them cheat them not to blame us: and to communicate the following news to them. That 2 ships have come direct from England to N. England, which give for news1. That almost all the large Ships of War are sailed full of people towards France, to seize it; full 300,000 men. 2. That 150 ships are ready to come westward to convoy our ships. 3. That we have here a brave Troop of Souldiers and if we want more, there are full 200 in the Sopus, and 3 or 400 in N. England. This is sent in a letter to Sweer Teunise who shall go to Akus to interpret it correctly to him. MR. MAYOR Worthy and beloved friend Sr pieter Schuyler. Ambassadors from Onondage and Oneyda arrive here just now who report to us that I must accompany them to Albany to interpret their propositions to you. As it is inconvenient for me 138 ADMINISTRATION OF at present I have taken the liberty to put their meaning on paper. They let your Honour thus Know that the news received from Canada shall not be communicated before all the Sachems have assembled. Your Honour & Johannes Wendel and I are sent for Express to be present there as they will not discuss the matter until you are there, and then your Honour shall also deliberate on it in order to consult with them as to what may occur to You. They have again seen three of their Indians who were prisoners, but they do not expect to have them back again as they must return quickly to Canada. They also assure you that they are not going to lie on their backs in consequence of these tidings of peace, and learn to fight only by looking Sideways at itbut they shall again grapple with it because Many of their War chiefs (Veltoversten) have remained in that Country. They also say that had the Governor of Canada sent the prisoners back home to us as soon as they had come from France, they had in no wise determined on peace, inasmuch as only thirteen survived: all the remainder died of Sickness. They hear two letters have come to the Jesuit-one from the Governr, the other from Pere Lamberville. They had consultedto wit, those of the Domine's side —to burn them, but the more cunning Sachems advised that they should be opened before the full Council; your Honour will then be able to see whether they will contain any deception. If, on the other hand there be none, they shall then be handed to the owners. They also acquaint your Honour that it is a lie that 10 nations of Savages came to destroy them, but Ambassadors of 7 different Nations have come in Zinnodo Wan ha and restored 2 Seneca prisoners and promised to give up 4 more of them as soon as they shall have returned home; also to treat for peace, and say there are 3 Nations which would continue the War, namely-the Kightages and the Twightwighs and the Sawenochques and give 2 Strings of Zewant with this letter. The 3 prisoners from Canada had reported that Cuadaroghque is abandoned and they found 30 barrels of powder there; among the rest was a barrel of Match in a hole which they intended LIEUT. GOV. LEISLER. 139 to set fire to and thus to blow up the others. But it went out of itself, after burning about an ell in length. They found considerable booty both in beaver and peltries in the fort. Six of the principal officers were drowned after they left the fort and fled to Canada, with divers soldiers but they know not how many. They further say that they had proposed this to Duinandougha, whereupon the Cajadorus answers-If my brothers do not find it convenient for them to journey so far, they would come to Duinandoughe, and should your Honour inform him of your wish it shall be faithfully attended to provided your honour send along one, two or three Strings. No more than commending you to the Lord with the hearty Salutations of your Servant-by my order, JACQUES CORNELISEN This 25th Decembr Ao 1689 Addressed-Aen d'E. Achtbare Mr Major Pieter Schuyler Residerende tot Albany. At a Convention of the Mayor Aldermen and Com.monality and Military officers of ye Citty and County of Albanie ye 27th day of Decembr 1689 Five messengers called Desagochquaetha Arachkoenichta Dehashedis Rashiedeagoe and Adochtirasse being sent by the Sachims of onnondage and Oneyde to acquaint us and them of New England, that there are three of ye Indians come back into ye. Country which were sent Prisoners to France, who are Sent by them of Canida to Propose a Peace or Truce, but that they have Resolved not to hear them till Some Gentn goe from hence to be Present at there genii meeting at Onnondage, and there Consult what shall be necessary for ye Publike good Doe Say further that there are 13 Indians come back from France the Rest being 23 all dead of Sicknesse and that there are Two Letters Intercepted which ye Govr of Canida and father Lamberville had Sent to ye Jesuit in Oneyde, which they keep till ye gentlemen from hence arrive there, when they will be opend to see what Treachery the french Design That there are messengers from Seven of ye farr nations 140 ADMINISTRATION OF come lo ye Sinnekes who Speake of Peace haveing Dellverd Two Sinneke Prisoners and Promisd to Deliver foure more as soon as they come home, and yt three of ye farr nations will Continue ye warr. They bring further news yt Cadarachqui is Deserted by ye french and that ye Indians have founde thirty Barrells of Pouder and abundance of Bever and Peltry there and yt Six of ye Principle officers were Drownd in goeing home to Canida from Cadarachqui and Sundry Souldiers. Vpon which it was Resolved unanimously to Send Caristasie Tosoquatho and Jurian three of ye most Prudent Maquasse Thither to onnondage with this answer it not being thought Convenient at this juncture to Send Christians from ye Convention. f Wee are glad to hear yt ye Report of ye 10 nations of Indians Westward comeing Doune to Destroy yw is false, and on ye oyr Side much Rejoyced that Seven of sd nations are Inclined for Peace, which we ye more must Recommend to ye Brethren yt yow may have ye Larger Scope to Revenge yourSelfs of ye French for ye Blood shed by that false nation, who are now in a mean Condition. and think to Ensnare yow with ye 13 Prisoners they have sent for from france, and haveing obtained Such a Peace, will have ye better opportunity to Catch a great number of ye People as they did in ye Last Peace, Therefore we doe Recommend you (as we are in a fast Covenant chain together) not to hearken to ye french nor Speak to them of Peace Since aur great king is in actuall warr with sd nation 2 We would come in Person to be Present at yr meeting according to yr Desyre, but we have Reed a Ship from England which brings us Certain news, that there is a governs for us upon ye way with many Souldiers, & is Expected every houre, when we shall Send you an Expresse to Onnondage a horseback hopeing to have orders by our Governr that ye English may unanimously goe and Root out Canida 3 Concerning ye 13 Prisoners come from france being all that is to be founde of 39 our advise is yt yow make Demand of them Positively of ye French, being Stole from yow and Deceitfully LIEVT. GOY. LEISLER. 141 taken in time of Peace, in ye 2d Place if ye french there hearts were.good, they would have Sent yow ye Prisoners assoon as they came from france Therefore doe not heare them Speake of any thing before they have Sent you back your Thirteen Prisoners, But yow need not be affraid of your Prisoners So Long as yw have ye Jesuit and so many french in yr Countrey whom yow must keep verry well to be Exchanged as was done in Col Dongans time; It is certain they are in no hazard that yow should be so hasty to release them, they will nott kill them it not being ye Christians fashion. 4 And for ye Brethrens more Incouragemt we can assure yw yt the French king hath his hands so full that he cannot assist Canida much, Yow may See this Plainly by there Leaving Cadarachqui. 5 That they send ye Two Letters writt by ye govr of Canida and Lamberville ye Priest, to ye Jesuit at Oneyde hither if not already done, and shall Inform them with ye Contents thereof, and take Especiall care that the messengers that Return to Canida Carry no Letters from ye Jesuit or any body Else thither. A true Copy Examind pr RoBT LIVINGSTON Clk Att a Convention &c. Albany, Die Sabbathi ye 5th of January 16 9 Present pr Schuyler Mayr David Schuyler D. Wessells Recordr albt Ryckman Capt John wendel C. Marte gerritse Liv: van Schaik Kilian van Renselaer C. J Bleeker Reynier Barents Claes Ripse Evert Banker gert Ryerse It was again put to ye vote whether any members of ye Convention should goe to Onondage to be Present at ye gen" meeting of ye Indians But was unanimously Resolved upon ye negative Confirming there Resolution of ye 27 of december last since it is judged dangerous to be there if ye Indians should Conclude of any Peace 142 ADMINISTRATION OF or truce which they some times have done notwithstanding all Perswasions to ye Contrare, and since Tahaiadoris cheeffe sachim of ye Maquase is bounde thither It is thougt Convenient yt he Repeat ye 5 articles sent by Caristasie and Tosoquatho thither and withall put them in minde that this is the Prefixed house to speake of Peace and all Publike affaires and not Onondage, and yt ye Sachim sent for by ye govr of Canida by no means goe thither to Treat or act with our great Kings Enemies, and yt we hope yt ye 5 nations will not be so mad as to hearken to any Peace with the treacherous french at such a juncture when ye greatest hopes is of Totally Rooting there name out in America but on ye Contrare take ye wholesome advice of there Brethren ye Christians, who knows what is for there Security better then they doe themselfs Lastly to Charge & Command them to make no Peace truce or any sort of amicable treaty with ye french Since his Majes Declaration of warr against them which hes been so much longed for by ye English nation is now come over and as they are subjects of our great King of England Soe they can not expect to keep ye Covenant chain Inviolable with this governmt and make Peace with Canida while we are in actual warr wth sd nation Therefore Remember we have warned yu yt if any evill be fall yu you must always acknowledge we gave you fair advertisement. It was also Resolved yt Tahaiadoris should have a faddem of Duffels a shirt and a Pare of Stockings. And yt a Belt of wampum should be sent to ye 4 Sachims of Dowaganhaes or farr nations to Congratulate ye Peace made between them & ye Sinnekes Att a Meeting &c. Albany January 6th 1699 Present as before except Kiliaen van Renselaer & gert Ryerse absent The Convention being mett again to consult about ye affaires of ye Indians ye members continue in there opinion yt none of ye Convention goe thither to ye Indians gen1l meeting, but Considering that it is of great Import, and that they may be ye more Certain and Satisfied yt ye Proposealls sent to said Indians by Tosoquatho Caristasie and Jurian may be Exactly and Peremptorily told them; LIEUT. GOV. LEISLER. 143 according as it is mentioned in ye 5 articles Concluded upon ye 27 december Last It is Resolved yt arnout Cornelise sworne Interpreter goe thither to Onondage withall Convenient speed who Desyres yt one may be appointed to goe along with him yt understands ye Language, upon which Robt Sanders was pitchd upon to goe for his assistance who upon his arrivall there shall take Especiall Care yt ye 5 articles be Plainly told to ye Sachims in there genll meeting which are herewith given you, & further in our name to acquaint PROPOSITIONS to be made by Arnout Cornelise Interpeter to whom Robert Sanders is joyned forassistance in ye Indians Generall meeting at onnondage in ye name and behalfe of ye Convention of albanie over and above ye 5 articles sent them by Caristasie Tosoquatho and Jurian albany ye 6th day of January 16-.9 I That albanie is ye Prefixed house to Treat and Speak of peace with all Sorts of people and yt they who Strive to make a Peace or Cessation with ye trench must be lookt upon as persones who are Designd to make a breach in ye great Silver Covenant chain which hath been So many years kept Inviolable by this governmt 2 That they must look upon themselfs as they are, to witt Subjects of ye great king of England who cann make no peace with them who are his Publik enemies You have felt ye smart of makeing peace wts the french nation already, when they were allijes of our Great king, then you did it without our Consent 3 That ye Sachim Degannesore who is sent for by Ihe governour of Canida by no means goe thither since they are absolute Enemies of our great king whose Declaration of warr is now come to hand which hath so long been Desyred by ye English nation in which Declaration his maje forbids all his subjects to keep the least Correspondence with yt false nation 4 Never could there be greater Disobedience and madnesse Committed by people then for ye 5 nation to hudle up asort of peace or Cessation of arms wth ye french at this Juncture when ye greatest hopes are of rooting out of ye Very name of ye French 144 ADMINISTRATION OF in america by the English who are Twenty to one of ye french in Canida 5 We have sent Arnout Cornelise ye Interpreter accompanied wth Robert Sanders to be present at yr Generall meeting not only to Poure understanding into yow, but in our name to Charge and Command yw as you love ye protexion of our great king and ye friendeship of this Government by no means to hearken to nor make any peace or Cessation or truce with ye french Directly or indirectly. 6 Thatt ye Sachims Endevor to perswade 3 or 400 Indians to come towards our Confines ahunting to be as skouts to watch ye french Designs for when they most Speak of peace then warr is in there hearts and therefore are not to be trusted since they have called all there Garrisons together to mont Royall Was Signed pr SHUYLER mayr DIRK WESSELLS Justice JOH: WENDEL Justice JAN JANSE BLEEKER Justice A True Copy Examind pr ROBt LIVINGSTON Ck At a Convention of the Mayor Aldermen Commonality and Military Officers of ye Citty of Albanie and Justices and Military Officers of the Said County, held in Albanie Die Saturni den 11th Januarie Ao 1689 PTsent pr Schuyler mayr Dirk Wessels Recordr Capt Joh. wendel Livinus Van Shaik Capt Jan Bleeker Claes Ripse David Schuyler albt Ryckman Reynier Barents Evert Banker Gert Ryerse kilian van Renselaer Capt Marte Gerritse Joh: Cuyler A Certain Letter was brougt into ye Convention by Capt Johannes Wendell Signd by Jacob Leysler the Contents whereof are as follows LIEUT. GOV. LEISLER. 145 New Yorke ye 28th Decemb 1689 GENTn-I having Receivd orders from his Maje KING WILLIAM for takeing care of this Government, have Commissionated Capt Jochim Staas To take into his Possession Fort Orange and keep ye Souldiers in good order and Discipline, and yt ye Magistracy may be in a good Decorum have Ordered and doe hereby Order that free Elections be forthwith made for a Mayor and Aldermen whom I have Signified to Capt Staas with whom Pray Correspond and give all due assistance for his Majes Intrest and ye Safety of yt Citty and County yt so Peace and Tranquillity may be Preserved amongst you, untill wee shall Receive further orders from ye King, which is ye needfull matter at psent from Your Loveing Frinde JACOB LEYSLER The Superscription was To ye Military and Civill officers and ye Protestant freemen Inhabitants of ye Citty and County of Albanie VPON which it was Resolved by ye Convention to send the high Sherriffe of ye Citty and County to ye said Jochim Staas with this message WHEREAS a Certain Letter of Jacob Leysler dated ye 28th day of Decemb Last at N: Yorke hath been Read in the Convention, wherein he writes yt he Jacob Leysler hath Received orders from KING WILLIAM for ye takeing care of this Government and accordingly Commissionated Jochim Staas to take into his Possession fort Orange and Orders free Elections for a mayor and Aldermen whom he hath Signified to ye sd Staas, It is therefore thougt Convenient by ye convention now met together that Richd Pretty Esqr high Sherriffe of ye Citty and County of Albanie doe Repare to Jochim Staas, and Demand if any such orders from our Souveraign Leidge Lord KING WILLIAM be sent to him as Jacob Leysler mentions in his Letter, Being Desyreous to see them that we may Conform and Behave our Selfs accordingly; Since ye Preservation of ye Peace of our Souveraign Lord KING WILLIAM VOL. I. 10 146 ADMINISTRATION OF as it is a duty Incumbent upon us, So it is our only aim to have ye same kept Inviolable in these Dangerous timesSignd pr SCHUYLER Mayor DIRK WESSELS Justice MARTE GERRITSE Justice Liv: VAN SCIAIK Justice of ye Peace EVERT BANKER assistant The high Sheriffe R: Pretty Esqr Returns from Jochim Staas and says that he hath Deliverd him ye message & yt said Jochim Staas comes Presently Jochil Staas appears in ye Convention and says he doth not Intend to answer ye Convention by writeing but by Discourse, alledgeing that he might be Ensnared by writeing, upon which the Gentn did Insist, that if he had any Lawfull Authority Devolved from our Souveraign Lord KING WILLIAM upon Jacob Leysler, that he would be pleased to show itt, they were willing to Obey, and notwithstanding ye orders were not Directed to Mr Leysler yet they were willing with all cheerfullnesse to Obey such orders as were Comprehended in said Letters, but cannot obey Capt Leysler as Leift govr Except his Maje hath made him soe, upon which Jochim Staas Replyed yt we knew well eneugh ye KING's Letters were Directed to Capt Nicholson and in his absence to such as for ye time being take care for ye Preserveing ye Peace and administring the Laws in their Majes Province of New Yorke, and further said Lett ye Bell be Rung and Lett all ye People come Together and then he would show what he had to show, Whereupon ye gentn of ye Convention Replyed that they were not willing to Runn into Confusion to Convein ye People before they knew what to Publish or Declare to them; and withall Desyred Since he acknowledged to have a Proclamation for ye Proclaimeing of there Majes KING AND QUEEN of England Scotland France and Irland &a which of Scotland hath not hitherto been done here, that they might have there Majes Proclamation to Proclaim there sd Majes accordinly, and they would cause the Companies come in arms, & doe it with what Solemnity the Place could afford, but ye sd Jochim Staas answered yt ye Proclamation was sent to him, & he would Obey Orders LIEUT. GOV. LEISLER. 147 Post.Meridiem Jochim Staas accompanied with pr Bogardus came to ye Convention and there showd an Order from Jacob Leysler authorizeing Jochim Staas assisted with ye Freeholders and Inhabitants of Albanie to Proclaim William and Mary Prince and Princesse of Orange to be king and Queen of England Scotland France and Irland &a Since he ye sd Leysler had Recd Letters from ye Lords of his Majes most honble Privy Councill dated ye 29th day of July 1689 to Proclaim there Majes if not already done, to which Intent he had sent a Proclamation for ye Same Purpose which Proclamac6n is made by ye sd Leysler and not a Proclamation sent hither by there Majes as ye Gentn of the Convention did Conclude and Expect it was. VPON which many Debates were made, But Jochim Staes Insisted Principally if the Gentn did not acknowledge Capt Leysler to be Leift Governr and Commander in Cheeffe of this Province, and whither they would obey him as Such The Gentlemen of ye Convention asked if he had nothing else to show which Impoured Capt Leysler to be Leift Governr then those Papers now Produced and if he had ye Copies of ye Letters Sent by his Maje for ye Province of N: Yorke, who Replyed, If he did show the Copies thereof then yow would say it was Milborn's writeing, he Staas shewd a Commission from Leysler to take Possession of fort Orange and an ordr for a day of Thanksgiveing, The Convention told Jochim Staas that if he could Produce but ye Least orders from his Maje King William directed to Jacob Leysler then they would obey him and Submitt, Else thougt itt not answerable to Obey his Commands in ye Least, but desyred Copies of those Papers which he shewed, & they would Consider ye Bussinesse when Some members of ye Convention who were not in Toune were made acquainted with itt and give him there answer in writeing telling him withall they were Intended to write to Capt Leysler about it, but ye sd Jochim Staas did not think it Convenient to give Copies of ye sd Papers and so went away he and pr Bogardus together 148 ADMINISTRATION OF Att a Meeting of there Majes Justices of ye Peace of ye Citty and County of Albany Die Sabbathi 12eo January AO 16 9 Post 4Meridiem Present pr Schuyler Mayr David Schuyler Dirk Wessells Recordr Albt Ryckman Capt Joh: Wendel Capt Marte Gerritse Capt Jan Bleeker Kiliaen van Renselaer Livinus van Schaik Claes Ripse Justices of ye Peace ALL the Justices of ye Peace of ye Citty and County of Albanie except Majr Abraham Staas Dirk Teunise and Capt Sander Glen were Conveined together to give there opinions whether Capt Jacob Leysler ought to be Esteemed and acknowleged to be ye Leift Governr and Commandr in Cheefe of the Province Since nothing hitherto hath been Produced to there view from his most Sacred MajY KING WILLIAM our Souveraign Leige Lord whereby the can acknowlege him soe, only takes upon him ye Title in Severall Papers which have been showne by Jochim Staas yesterday Pr Schuyler Mayor his vote is that he cannot acknowlege ye sd Capt Leysler to be Leift Governr and Commander in Cheeffe of this Province nor Obey his orders till he hath showne that he hath Lawfull Authority from his most Sacred Maje KING YWILLIAM so to be Dirk Wessells votes ye same with ye Mayor Capt Wendel is van opinie om dat hy sich Sodanigh Shryft als Luytcnant Governeur en Commandeur an Chef, dat zyn verstant niet & can beseffen off het sodanigh is of niet & is; Capt Jan Jansz Bleeker is of ye same opinion wtl Capt Wendell which being translated is as follows that because he writes himself soe as Leift Governr and Commandr in Cheeffe, That his understanding cannot Comprehend whither it be soe or not soe Livinus van Schaik is of ye Same opinion with ye Mayr David Schuyler is of ye same opinion with ye Mayr Albert Ryckman of ye Same opinion with ye Mayr Capt Marte Gerritse is off opinion yt he cannot see yt he is ILeift LIEUT. GOV. LEISLER. 149 Governr and Commander in Cheeffe, before he shows it, that he hes it from his most Sacred Maje KING WILLIAM Kiliaen van Rensselaer is of ye same opinion wth ye Mayr Claes Ripse is of ye same opinion wth ye Mayr The opinion of Capt Jonathan Bull who Comands the men sent hither from N: England for our assistance being asked says, That for any thing he hath either seen or heard yet, hath no Reason to Conclude yt Capt Jacob Leysler is either Leift Governr or Commander in Cheeffe of ye Province of N: Yorke The opinion of James Bennet Ensign to Capt Jonathan Bull being asked says, yt for anything that hes appeard to him, he cannot juge that Capt Leysler is Leift Govr & Commander in Cheeffe of ye Province of N: Yorke While ye sd Justices of ye Peace were together a Letter comes from Capt Sander Glenn there Majes Justice of ye Peace at Shinnechtady Informing them how that there are five Commissions come to Shinnectady from Capt Leysler for five Justices of ye Peace brougt thither by Jeronimus Wendell and Gerrit Luykasse, ye Persones are Myndt Wemp Dowe Aukus Ryer Jacobse David Christoffelse & Johannes Pootman, and a Commission to call the People together to choose new Capt Leift & Ensign and a Toune Courte, and yt ye sd 5 justices come here tomorrow to assist Mr Jochim Staas and to Enter upon there office. The said Capt Sander together with ye Leift & Ensign and Sweer Teunise members of ye Convention doe write to the gentn that there vote is not to Obey Capt Leyslers orders, But to Protest against his Illegal Proceedings. And since we are Informd by Capt Bleeker of one of ye Train band Compes of this Citty that Jochim Staas did ask him to beat ye Drum and call his Compe together tomorrow to Publish a Proclamation sent hither by Capt Leysler of there Majes to be King and Queen of England Scotland France and Irland, which Proclamation ye sd Justices Declare they are Ready to Proclaim, if there is ye Least Title of orders for ye same from there Majes but since this is used merely as a means to Establish Capt Leyslers authority who makes ye sd Proclamation It is ye opionion of ye Mayr and Aldermen and the Justices to 150 ADMINISTRATION OF Discharge Capt Bleeker and Capt Wendel not to Convein there Companies together nor beat any Drums, to Disturbe ye Peace of there Majes Leige People of this Citty, Since ye sd Magistrates are Resolved to use all means and methods to Preserve ye Peace of our Souveraigne Lord king WILLIAM & Queen MARY and not to suffer ye Least Innovation or Alteration in ye government of this Citty and County till orders comes from his Maje King William for ye same, which never hath been hitherto showne RESOLVED that for ye Preservation of ye Peace of our Souveraign Lord & Lady KING WILLIAM & QUEEN MARY and ye wellfare of the Inhabitants of this Citty and County of Albanie the following Protest be Published in a most Solemn manner tomorrow, only Capt Wendel & Capt Bleeker say they will have nothing to doe wth ye Protest when they heard it Read WHEREAS Jacob Leysler of ye City of N: Yorke Merchant hath for some monthes past assumed to himself a Power to Command there Majes Fort at N: Yorke, and brougt to his Devotion severall of ye adjacent Tounes and Villages without ye Least Commission or Authority derived to him from ye Croune of England; whose Ambitious and Restlesse Spiritt, together with Diverse of his associates have Indefaticably strove and Endevord to bring there Majes KING WILLIAM and QUEEN MARYS Loveing subjects in ye City and County of albany unto ye same Confusion and Slavery, upon Pretence to Redeem them from Arbitrary Power, and to free them from ye Yoke of Popery, which his Creatures when Last here did Endevor to Infuse into y~ heads of ye People and to stirr them up to Sedition and Dissobedience to ye Lawfull Authority Confirmed by there Majes most Gracious Proclamation; But he the said Leysler not attaining his aim, which was ye Subversion of ye Governmt of this Citty and County (so Extream Dangerous at this Juncture by Reason of ye Indians) Continues Still his Malice, and Endevors to Disquiet there Majes Leige People, by assumeing to himself the Titell of Leift Governour and Commander in Cheeffe of there Majes Province of N: Yorke, without ye Least Shadow of orders or authority so to doe from hismost Sacred Maje KING WILLIAM, Deludeing the Common LIEUT. GOY. LEISLER. 151 People and makeing them Believe, yt ye letters wch were sent by his Maje to Francis Nicholson Esqr his Majes Leift govr and Commandr in Cheeffe of New Yorke and in his absence to such as for ye time being take Care of ye Preserveing of Peace and administring ye Laws in said Province of N: Yorke, Belonged to him, which he can no ways Pretend to, but on ye Contrary we must Conclude are Directed to us so farr as ye County of albany is a Part of ye Province of New Yorke and althogh ye sd Leysler is sufficiently senceible of ye Dangerous Condition ye Citty and County of Albany are in, by Reason of ye French of Canida and there Indians which we may dayly Expect, haveing Intelligence that they have Drawne all there forces together to Mont Royall, ye season of ye year being now most favourable, if they Design to make any Attaque upon us, who besides are useing all Possible means to Delude and Draw off ye five nations of Indians westward from there Obedience and Subjection to ye Croune of England by there Indians Lately come from france, By which means there Majes Intrest will not only in ye Citty and County of albany but also in ye Northern Parts of america suffer Extreamly, To Prevent which we have spared neither cost nor Trouble to secure them to this Government. Yet he ye said Leysler doth Continue to make new Confusions when Peace and Unity is most Requisite by sending orders and Commissions to Jochim Staes, Particularly a Commission to take into his Possession fort Orange and Diverse oyr Commissions to sundrey Persones of this Citty and County, intending thereby to subvert ye gcvernment here and Turn all upside Downe, writing Seditious Letters which are come to our hands wherein he orders new Elections for Mayr and Aldermen forthwith to be made whom he hath signified to ye sd Staas Contrare to the Previledges of this Citty Graunted by Charter, soe yt Great Part of ye Time must be spent to Defeat the sd Leyslers Pernicious and Malitious Designs which otherwise Could be Employd to Resist upon all occasions ye Common Enemy and for ye Publike good, and althogh ye Bussinesse hath been sufficiently Debated with ye sd Jochim Staas and so many Arguments used as ought to Convince any Rationall man, That if he could show but the Least Title of an order 152 ADMINISTRATION OF from our Souveraign Leige Lord KING WILLIAM to ye sd Leysler or authentique Copies thereof, wee were willing and Ready to Obey him or if he could not Produce Such that if he could but Deliver us authentique Copies of his Majes Letters or orders sent to Capt Nicholson, wee were most willing to Obey and Perform whatever was Comprehended in the Same, wee have by the assistance of God dureing these Revolutions taken care for ye Preserveing ye Peace & and administring ye Laws in our said Citty and County notwithstanding all Combinations and Contrivances to ye Contrare, and forasmuch as we have seen among ye Papers sent by ye sd Leysler to Jochim Staas a Proclamation made by ye sd Leysler Pretended Leift Govr and Commandr ill Cheeffe for ye Proclaiming WILLIAM and MARY Prince and Princesse off Orange KING and QUEEN of England Scotland france & Irland &a together with a warrant Signd by ye sd Leysler authorizeing Jochim Staas to Publish ye same, mentioning yt he Leysler had Receivd Orders dated ye 29th day of July 1689 (never yet showne to us) to Proclaim there Majes if not already done, which Titles of Prince and Princesse off Orange since they have above six months agoe been Proclaimed here KING and QUEEN of England France and Irland &a and we in there names so acted would be a Dimunition of there Majes Titles, but if they were to be again Proclaimd wee Conceive would be of Scotland alone, since it is mentiond in sd Order to Proclaim there Majes if not already done; And altho ye sd Staas knows yt there Majes were Proclaimed here in albany on ye first day of July Last KING & QUEEN of England France and Irland &a in ye Self same manner as our neighbours of Boston had done to whom his Majes is Pleased to signify his Royall approbation of ye same and gracious acceptance, and having Desyred ye sd Jochim Staas, that if there was any Orders from there Majes for a second Proclamation because Scotland was not Inserted in ye first that we were most willing and Ready to doe itt with what solemnity ye Place could afford, But could get no oyr answer of him, then whether we would not acknowlege Leyslers authority, and yt he had no other Proclamation then yt made by ye sd Leysler which sd Proclamation we are Credibly Informed ye sd Jochim Staes doth Design to Proclaim, by which LIEUT. GOY. LEISLER. 153 means he Intends to Erect and Establish Leyslers authority here, and so overthrow ye whole p'sent Magistracy, whereby many Mischeiffs and Calamities must of necessity Ensue to his Majes good subjects since ye Indians have much Depended upon theni during these Revolutions And that it may be Apparent to ye world that we underwritten Mayor and aldermen of ye City of albany and Justices of ye Peace of ye said County have done and still Continue to doe what lyes in our Power for ye Preservation of Peace and Tranquillity among ye Inhabitants of this City and County till ye arrivall of a governr or Orders from his most Sacred Majestie KING WILLIAM which is daily Expected, and to Prevent Such Confusion Innovation and Alteration Since it is an Indispenceible duty upon us at this juncture, and fearing to Incurr there Majes Displeasure for our too much Lenity,Wee doe in his Majes KING WILLIAM'S name, forewarn Discharge forbid and Prohibite ye sd Jochim Staas and his associates upon Pain of Rebellion to Convein or cause any meeting or assembly of People to come together, wthin this Citty and County of Albany upon any Pretence whatsoever whereby there Majes Peace any wise may be Disturbed; and therefore in ye Behalfe of there Majes Leidge People of ye said Citty and County we do PROTEST against ye sd Jochim Staets and his associates for all Bloodshedds, Plunderings Robberies, mischeeffs Dammages, Losses Detriments that may henceforth Ensue by his or there Irregular and Illegal Proceedings, Since such meetings can be looked upon no oyr ways then as Contrare to ye Peace of our Souveraign Lord and Lady King William & Queen Mary there Croune and Dignity In Testimony whereof we have hereunto Sett our hands and Sealls in albany ye 13th day of January in ye first year of there Majes Reign ao 16and caused ye same to be Entered in the Publike Register of ye Citty and County Signed & Seald pr Pr SCHUYLER mayr GOD SAVE KING WILLM1 D: WESSELS Recr AND QUEEN MARY L V SHAIK alderm. K V: RENSSELAER Just: DAV: SCHUYLER alder: MARTE GERRITSE Just: ALBt RYCEMAN aid: CLASS RIPSE v: DAM aid: 154 ADMINISTRATION OF THE Manner how ye sd Protest was Publishd on ye 13th day of January 16-1 was orderd to be Entred, being as follows. The Mayr with ye Recordr and Aldermen and ye Justices and ye Common Councill marchd from there Majes Fort (The marshall going before with a white Rod) accompanied with diverse of ye Antient Citizens, with a guarde of fifty Inhabitants in arms, The Mayr as ye Kings Leift together with ye Recorder alderman Shaik and Capt Marte Gerritse Jusice of ye Peace as soon as they came within ye Citty Gates, went with there Swords Pointed; Then followd ye other aldermen and Justices and Common Councill and Sundrey Citizens and then the guards and in this Posture with Drumms Beateing came to ye Plain Before ye Church where ye Bell Rung thrice, Then ye Mayor made a speech to ye Citizens which flokd together, shewing the Reasons why he came there in Such manner Then ye PROTEST was Read in English and Dutch, this being done they all went in ye Same Posture through ye Principle Streets of ye Citty and So up to ye fort, where ye guardes were Dismissd and thankd by ye Mayr ye Present Commander of ye fort for ye Service they had done there Majes KING WILLIAM and QUEEN MARY that day, and ye Protest sent by ye Marshall to be affixed at ye Porch of ye Church. Evert Banker Gerrit Ryerse and Eghbert Teunise assistants Concurr with ye Mayr aldermen and Justices in ye Protest and think it Extream needful that it be most Solemnly Published who went themselfs in Person and see it done and desyred that this there Opinion and advice as assistants of ye Citty might be Entred. Capt Sander Glenn one of there Majes Justices of ye Peace came to ye office and Perrused the Proceedings of ye Justices Enterd yesterday Concerning ye not acknowledging Jacob Leysler of N: Yorke Mercht to be Left governr and Commander in Cheeffe of this Province who Concurrs with ye Rest of ye Justices yt he cannot be Esteemed So nor his orders be Obeyd till ye sd Leysler hath Showne that he hath Lawfull authority from his Majes King William so to be and desyred that his vote might be Entred, and also yt he Concurrs wth ye Rest of the Justices in ye Protest and approoves of ye same. A true Copy Examind By me RoBt LIVINGSTON Clk LIEUT. GOV. LEISLER. 155 Albany ye 20th of January 16t Present pr Schuyler mayr C: Bleeker D. Wessells L. V. shaik C: wendell albt Ryckman The mayor and Aldermen haveing Consulted to day how to Procure some Christians and Indians to goe towards ye Great Lale to Lye as skouts for ye space of three weeks to give notice if ye ffrench should come with an army to Invade there Majes Territory, but could fynde none yt would goe under 2 shil 6d to 3 shil pr day, for Capt Bull would suffer none of his men to goe alledgeing it Contrare to his Instructions, and while they were bussy to discourse sd affare ye following Indians came and sd as follows vizt. Proposeal made by Capt Blew Stocking and anoyr maquase called Deganochkeeri to ye mayor & alderman in albe ye 20 January 16 Present pr Shuyler mayr Dirk wessells Record J: Bleeker albt Rykman Livinus van Shaik BRETHREN-We have sent by ye 40 maquase Souldiers now at Shennechtady to acquaint yw that they are come to goe out as Skouts towards ye lake and otter creek to wath ye Designe of yt Deceiver ye govr of Canida to see if he will come and Invade our Country again & if we Discern any Progresse of his we have 4 Indians yt we send forthwith Post to give yu & our people advertisemt Since we intend to spend our time So till ye Ice be out of ye water & there design to make Canoes & goe to Canida a fighting But we being Poor doe want amunition as Pouder lead & axes for ye journey, & gave 7 hand of wampum as a token desyreing yt ye govt may Provide them wth Such ammunition; 15b546 ADMINISTRATION OF Answer to ye Sd Messengers ye 21th do Present pr Schuyler D: wessell Liv: V. Shaik J Bleeker J. wendel We are glad that yw take our Recommendations so well and haste to be vigilant at this Juncture when ye false french might come & fall upon yr Country; Proceed & look out well & give us an acec from time to time how all affares is with yw & according to yr Request we have sent to ye sd Comnpe three Baggs of Pouder & 20 Barrs of lead to make use of in sd Expedition, Desyreing ye to make all speed thither imaginable; & yw need not fear but we shall be Ready upon all occasions if the french should come; The sd Indians were very thankfull and sd they would withal speed goe to Shinnechtady & forward ye Compe & hasten them upon there march, A true Copy Examind pr RoBt LIVINGSTON Clk [For entries which follow in these Records, relating to the Burning of Schenectady, see Doc. Hist., Vol. 1, pp. 302-306.] Feb 0lth 168I Resolved yt 25 volunteers goe under ye Command of Leift Evert de Ridder together with those men gone to Shinnectady this morning and Pursue and follow after ye french & Indian Enemy who have carried Sundrey of there Majes Subjects Captives from Shinnectady who had this following Commission WHEREAS the french and Indians of Canida have come in a hostile manner massacred and murtherd Sundry of there Majes Subjects at Shinnectady burning ye Towne and caried divers Captives along with them; yow are hereby required in there Maje~ name king William and Queen Mary to Pursue and follow after ye sd french and Indians with so many volunteers as shall be sent with yw and ye Sd french and Indians to kill and Destroy and ye Captives to Rescue and Redeem out of ye Sd Enemies hands if Possible, always Provided yow meet with a sufficient number of friend Indians at Shinnectady to assist yow in said Expedition Yow are to take Especiall care to have always Spyes and Skouts LIEUT. GOT. LEISLEPR 157 out to Prevent all ambushes in ye march and to keep ye said men in good order and Discipline & ye men are to be obedient to yr orders as Souldiers are obliged to obey there officers by ye Law marshall given in albany ye 10th day of february 166 To Leift Evert de Ridder It was Resolved to Detach 30 men more out of ye Compe to go to Shinnectady ye Mayr Pr Schuyler Jochim Staets & Robt Livingston were to goe out along with them but after that ye Respective Posts and watches were reduced by Mr Wessells Capt Jochim Staets & Capt Bleeker they were found so weake that they could not spare there men & ye People generally unwilling to consent that any more men should go out of Towne not being much above 150 men in ye Citty. Die Martis Albany ye 11th day of February 166 Haveing Received Information from Shinnectady last night yt no messenger was yet gone to ye Maquase Castle to warn them to come doune it was resolved that Mr Wessells should goe in all haste thither to bring doune ye Maquase and Capt Gerrit Teunise to goe with a Party of men now att Shinnectady to follow ye Enemies Tract to see if they have a stronger army or any party bounde hither to this Toune and comeing to Shinnectady were assured that a messenger was gone to ye Maquase Castles, and Lawrence ye Indian haveing been out in pursuit of ye Enemy with 9 men which Lay here in Toune got an Indian Prisoner by ye way who was examind and told yt the Enemy were not many above a hundred french and 100 Indians ye sdi Lawrence ye Maquase Proposed yt he now had 49 men of ye Maquase & River Indians sent from Albany, yt he was Intended to pursue ye Enemy to morrow, for his heart was Broke to see so much of his Brethrens blood shed and would Procure some of ye Prisoners back again either by force or by strategem, upon wh Mr Wessells proposed to ye young men come there with Leift Evert de Ridder; now yow see what that Lawrence ye Indian Intends, how many of yow are willing to goe along with him & serve there Majes king William & Queen Mary & Pursue there Enemies that have Destroyed so many Christians, out of which Compe & of some oy1r yt came from Albany only 21 went out with Lawrence ye Maquase on ye 158 ADMINISTRATION OF 12 of february being Weddensday, and just as they were furnishd and Ready to goe ye Indians of ye first &2d Castle came to Capt Sanders but ye weather being so badd & such a Rain they could not Proceed yt day Expecting ye Indians of ye 3d Castle would be there that night. The 12th dito Die Mercury. Last night it was Resolved upon to made Ready one hundred men to joyn wth ye 50 men yt were at Shinnectady & wth ye Maquase & River Indians & so pursue ye Enemy, but this day ye great Thaw and Rain Prevented there march and quite Discouraged ye People of haveing any Successe, we writt therefore to Shinnectady to Mr. Wessells yt we hoped he had sent ye men forward that was there and them were sent him last night, Since we see no Probability of Sending any more from hence ye weather being so badd which accordingly was done haveing advice yt Mr. Wessells had Dispatchd about 90 or 100 Christians & Indians & ye Skachkooc Indians wch were gone by the way of Sarachtoge were to meet them together with ye 40 maquase yt were out as skouts Lawrence sending forthwith 2 messengers before to warn ye sd 40 Indians to meet them. The 13 dito. Die Jovi. About 10 a Clock ye Indians of Tionondage ye 3d Castle of ye Mohoggs came to Shinnectady who Rested there that day, alderman Shaik Capt Staets & Ensighn Shuyler were Commanded out with a Party of men to joyn ye Tionondages and so Pursue ye Enemy but comeing to Shinnectady ye Indian Prisoner taken by Lawrence being given to ye Sachims of Tionondage after they had Tormented him he was given to an Indian wooman according to there custome who gave him his life, who then Confessed yt when he came out of Canida there were 600 men making Ready to come out towards albany or N: England, wch Discouraged alderman Shaik Capt. Jochim Staets to Proceed; The more because a negro woman of Shinnectady was told ye Same by a Spanyard yt was among ye french yt a Design was Laid against albany, So yt ye Tionondages went out & followed Lawrence, & after they had been out a day came back again till Lawrence sent LIEUT. GOV. LEISLER. 159 a messenger that he was within a days journey of ye Enemy and Praid them to come up with all Speed then they went & 9 of our Christians wth Ens: abr: Schuyler, but could not -overtake ye Enemy ye Christians came back & ye Indians went on The maquase upon our Dsyre granted the Indian Prisoner to be sent to ye fort to be Secured for fear of his Running away to Canida Capt. Garten Capt Paling Capt Beekman & Capt Matthys wth 30 men came from Sopus for our assistance. Att a meeting of ye Convention of albany ye 15th day of february 16 9 Present pr Schuyler Mayr D. wessells Recordr Div. van Shaik J. Bleeker Claes Ripse albt. Ryckman Joh: Cuyler Evert Banker Capt Marte gerritse Capt gerrit Teunise Capt Garten Capt Paling Capt Beekman Resolved to write to ye governr & Councill of Boston Connetticut & Virginia & to ye Civill & Military officers of N: Yorke & desyred them to joyn together that Quebeck may be taken by water in ye Spring as pr said letters appears Stephen Lee & Mr Davenport were sent Post to Boston and Connetticut & Cornelise Viele to N: Yorke The 18th of february 169 Whereas there are severall houses near ye Citty which stand Extream Dangerous & ye Enemy being dayly Expected ye generality of ye Citizens desyre that they may be pulled doune It is ordered by ye mayr aldermen and commonality of ye Citty of Albany yt ye same be forthwith removed to witt yehouse of Barent albertse Bratt ye house of Wm hoffmayer ye house of adriaen appel, ye house of ye widow of Cornelise vanderholve, and to ye end that ye same may be effected with ye Least Dammage to ye owners these following p'sones to witt pr Winne pr Bogardus Wm Claese Groesbeek harme Gansevoort Dirk Bensing & Jan Cornelise Vyselaer are appointed and authorized to agree with ye 160 ADMINISTRATION OF owners Else to apprise the same, wch sd apprizemt is to be paid by the Publike & to order yt ye same may be broke off in the most orderly way with all speed; ye sd 6 Persones are also authorized to Cause all ye fences & trees standing neer the Toune to be Removed & to warn ye owners to doe it with all Expedition else to order it to be done, in doeing whereof this shall be ye sufficient warrant; ye sd men are authorized to give there Report whether any oyr houses ought to be Removed in this dangerous time that order may be taken therein actum in albany ye 18th day of february 16 - Signd pr Schuyler mayr J. Bleeker Joh: wendel albert Ryckman Claes Ripse van dam Liv: van Shaik Jochim Staets Gerrit Ryerse Reynier Barentse. Albany ye 21th february 16A. Present pr Schuyler Eghbert Teunise D. Wessells Joh: Cuyler Claes Ripse gert Ryerse albt Ryckman Capt gert Teunise Capt Marte gerritse pr Winne Pr Bogardus Harme gansevoort Dirk Bensing & Jan Cornelise Vyslaer who were authorized to give there Report whether any oyr houses ought to be Removed from ye Toune walls, doe say yt ye 4 houses of Barent albertse Brat Adrien appel. Wm hoffmayer & ye ywdW of Cornelise vanderholve be Removed ye oyr houses may stand till further order, but yt all fences Trees and oyr timber must be Removed 60 paces without ye City stockades, & all oyr things wh might hinder ye view of ye enemy Item yt.ye Curtain must be Repaired by Bennony van Korlaers & by ye Mayr Pr Schuylers. Orderd yt ye houses of Barent albertse Bradt Wm hoffmayer adriaen appel & ye widw of Cornelise vanderholve be pulled doune by ye Companies of Capt Bleeker & Capt Wendel & sett up again within ye Citty on such lotts as shall be appointed for ye same & yt ye quarter of a Compe doe work at a time & so by Turns The Mayr aldermen & Commonality have granted to Adrien appel ye Lott between Jurian van hoese & Reynier Schaets for LIEUT. GOV. LEISLER. 161 his house to be erected there, that is to say so much grounde as his house can stand on in front to be on ye Side of Jurian van hoese & for Wm hoofmayer ye Lott Behinde between ye Brew house of Bennony van Corlaer & ye Lott of Reynier Shaets deceased that in so much as ye sd house can stand upon in front next to ye Brew; house Provided ye Lotts of ye sd Wm Hoffmayer & adriaen appel without ye gate shall for ye future belong to ye Mayr aldermen & Commonality of ve Cittv of albany & there successors forever Ordered yt ye house of Barent alberts Bradt be erected on a lot of Johannes den, wandelaer next to hans hendriks & if yt sd Johannes de wandelaer and Barent albertse Bradt cannot agree about ye Price 4 persones shall be appointed to apprize ye same Wh ye sd Barent is to pay, & then ye Lott without ye gate Remains his but not to be built upon without order Ordered yt all persones yt have fences neer ye Toune be warned to Remove ye same 60 paces from ye Toune Stockadoes in 3 day's time Ordered ye first divison of Capt Bleekers Compe goe to worke & Pull dounye sd 4 houses on Munday morning standing neerest ye gates, beginning at the house of Barent albertse Bradt which house together with ye house of Wm hoffmayer and adriaen appel is to be sett up again by ye Inhabitants in some Convenient Place within ye Citty & yt by every division both in Pulling doune ye houses & setting them up there be at least on Carpenter or Two, The house of ye widw of Cornelise vanderholve being old and Decayed is only to be pulled doune Orderd yt ye gate by harme ganseforts be forthwith Repaired VOL. II. 1 1628 ADMINISTRATION OF At a meeting &c. Albany ye 22th day of february 16{{ Present pr Schuyler Mayr Ens: Bennitt D. Wessells Recordr Capt Paling L: v: Shaik Capt Beekman J: Bleeker Ens: Joh: Sanders Albt Ryckman pr Winne Joh: Cuyler Wm de Mayer Reynier Barents C: Marte gerritse Kiliaen van Renselaer Claes Ripse Ev: Banker Capt garten Capt Bull Capt gerrit Teunise Capt Jochim Staets Lt Robt Sanders Resolved that for ye p'servation of there Majes Intrest in these parts & ye Secureing of there Subjects in this time of war wth' ye french, yt all means be used to Perswade all ye Maquase to come & live & Plant at Shinnectady lately Destroyed by ye frenchand there Indians wh will be a means yt ye winter Corn sowed there may be Reaped & ye Indians in Readinesse to joyn with our forces upon any occasion if ye enemy should come Resolved yt all Endevors be used to Perswade ye Indians of Skachkook to come & live & Plant upon Marte gerritse Island neer ye toune whereby ye fidelity of ye Indians will be knowen & they Ready upon all occasions to goe as Skouts to discover ye Enemy & to assist upon any attempt of ye EnemyResolved yt ye River Indians liveing at Beere Island and Catskill be Perswaded to goe all & live & Plant at Catskill who will be Ready on all occasions to be employed as skouts or oyrwise which will much Conduce for ye Security of our neighbours of ye County of ulster by there Continuall hunting and Rangeing ye woods And Capt garrit Teunise doth Promise upon all occasions to send up such number of sd Indians as shall be Requisite to be Employd as aforesd Symon van Ness and Andries Barents who went out ye first wth ye maquase Returning told; they had Pursued ye Enemy to LIEUT. GOV. LEISLER. 163 ye great Lake & would have overtaken them had they not been Spyed by some of ye Enemy Indians that went out to looke for 2 negroe boys yt were Runn away from them, & yt ye Indians & Christians were all Tyred when they came to ye Croune Point neer ye Lake; some went farther till they came to where ye Ise was smooth where the french had with horses that they carried from Shinnectady & skeets & Yse spurrs, made all the way they could over ye Lake in So much that our People could gain nothing upon them; whereas at first they went 2 of there days journeys in one; neverthelesse Lawrence ye maquase & about 140 Mohoggs & River Indians are gone in Pursute of them, & will follow them quite to Canida. Att a Meeting &c. Albany FebuY 23d 16-9 Itt was Proposed to ye gentn of Sopus to levy 50 men out of there County for our assistance to lye in Garrison here, who Replyed that they would use all Endevors to Perswade there People for a Supply, but by there unhappy Revolutions and Distractions Some adhereing to ye first magistracy oyrs to there new leaders, They cannot Execute yt Power & Command as is Requisite on such occasions People being under no Regulation. Resolved to write to ye Civill & Military officers of Sopus for ye assistance of 50 men to lye in Garrison here to Defend there Maje King William & queen Marys Intrest in these PartsIt was also proposed to Raise some Goods by way of loan upon there Majes acct. of them that were willing to advance, to be Employed for ye PublikeIt is Concluded to fortify ye Toune wth all speed & yt ye 4 houses standing neer yc gates be pulled doune to morrow Att a Meeting &c Albany Febuy 25th 16loPresent pr Schuyler mayr JAh: Cuyler D: Wessels Recordr Reynier Barents John Bleeker Jochim Staets albt Rynkman Resolved yt no merchandize either Christian or Indian fitt for cloathing be Transported out of ye Citty upon pain of Confisca 164 ADMINISTRATION OF tion-Bevers or Peltry money or oyr Treasure & goods not necessare for apparel may be sent dounePROPOSITIONS made by the Sachims of ye Maquase Castles to ye Mayor Alderman and Commonality of ye Citty of albany and Military officers of ye sd Citty and County in ye Citty hall ye 25th day of february 16 8a Present'r Schuyler Mayr Interpreted pr D wessels Recordr arnout and hille L: v: Shaik James of ye Sachims Jan Janse bleeker Sinerongnirese Speker albt Ryckman Rode Reynier Barents Saggoddiochquisax Joh: Cuyler oquedagoa C. marte Gerritse Tosoquatho C. Jochim Staets odagerasse Lt abr: Schuyler aridarenda En: gabr Thompson Jagogthare BRETHREN-Wee are sory and Extreamly greeved for ye murther Lately Committed by ye french upon our Brethren of Shinnechtady wee Esteem this evill as if done to ourselfs being all in one Covenant chain But what they have done is by way of Stelth by way of Robbery unawars our brethren of New England will be sorry to hear of this sad dissaster, but we must not be discouraged give a belt of wampum according to there custome to wipe of the tears 2 Brethren Wee Lament and Condole the death of so many of our brethren so basely murtherd at Shinnechtady, we cannot accompt it a great victory for itt is done by way of Deceit He (meaning ye governr of Canida) comes to our Country by his messengers at onnondage and speaks of Peace with ye whole house quite hither, But warr is in his heart as yow fynde by woful Experience but what shall we say it is ye same as he did at Cadarachqui and ye Sinnekes Country this ye third time that he hes done so; he hes this is ye third time Broke open ye gevell of our house on both ends ye one end at Sinnondowanne and ye oyr LIEUT. GOV. LEISLER. 165 here, but we hope to be revenged there is one hundred of our young men out still who will Pursue them to there doors at Canida nay ye french shall not be able Cutt a Stick of wood we will lay soe Close seige to them we doe now gather ye Dead together in order to There Interrment a manner of speakeing amongst them doe give a belt of wampum 3 Wee are come here from our Castles with tears in our Eys to bemoan ye murther Committed by ye Perfidious french at Shinnechtady our young Indians are gone out in Pursute of them and while we are now Bussy in Burying the dead yt were murtherd there we may have bad news yt our people are gone out may be killed also ye same yt is befallen yu may befall us; we doe therefore come and bury our Brethren at Schennechtady doe give a belt of wampum according to there Custome 4 Great is ye Mischaffe yt is befallen us it is come from ye heavens upon us were taught by our fore fathers when any Sad accident or Dissaster doth befall any of ye Covenant to goe with all Convenient speed to Bemoan there death, doe give a Belt of wampum which they call a belt of Vigelance that is not to have too much thought on what is done yt Cannot be Remedied but to be watchful for ye future and give Eye water to make ye Brethren Sherpe Sighted 5 Wee come to ye house where we usually doe Renew ye Covenant which house we fynde Defiled with blood this is knowne to all ye 5 nations and we are come to wipe off ye blood and Sweep ye house clean and therefore pray yt Corlaer and all they yt are in office here in albany nameing ye mayor whom they call pieter mr wessells and mr Livingston may use all means and derect all affares to be revenged of ye Enemy that have done us this Evill doe give a belt of wampum 6 Brethr: Doe not be discouraged this is butt a beginning of ye warr we are strong eneugh the whole house have there Eyes fixed upon yrs and they only stay your motion and will be ready to doe what ever shall be resolved upon by our Brethren, our Covenant is a firm Covenant it is a Silver Chain and cannot be broke we are resolute and will Continue ye warr we will not leave off if there were but 30 men of us left we will Proceed There 166 ADMINISTRATION OF fore pray take good heart Doe not Pack and goe away if ye Enemy sh d hear it would ar it much Encourage them; ee are of ye Race of ye Bear and a bear doth not yeald as long as there is a droop of blood in its body we must all be se doe dgive a belt of wampum 7 Brethren Be Content Look up to ye heavens from thence ye Judgment is come now upon us be not discouraged ye same hand yt h ath chastised us can heal us; the suinn wch now hath been Cloudy -and sent us this dissaster will shinne again and: with its Pleasant Beams Comfort us Be Incouraged with many Repetitions doe give a bevir skin 8 Wee are Engaged in a bloody warr with ye french about 3 years agoe and were Incourraged to proceed and no sooner were well Entred and gott prisoners but a Cessation Came and Corlaer meaning Col: dongan hindred us to proceed and demanded ye prisoners from us we were obedient and did deliver them and layed doune ye hatchet which if we might h6a.ve go6ne foreward then the french would not have been in yt Capacity to doe so much mischeeffe as they doe but now v-e must dye Such obstructions will Ruine us; if we might have had our wills we would have prevented there planting Sowing and Reaping and brought them low and mean Neverthelesse lett us be stedfast and not take such measures again lett us goe one briskly with ye warr doe give a Bever Skinn 9 Wee Recommend ye brethren to keep good watch and if any Enemies come take care yt messengers be more speedily sent to us then lately was done we would not advise ye brethren quite to desert Shinnechtady but to make a fort there The enemy would be too glorious to See it quite desolate and yr Toune is not well fortifyed ye Stockadoes are so short ye Indians can jump over them like a dogg doe give a bever skinn 10 This mischeeffe is done at Shinnechtady and it Cannot bee helped but asoon as any Enemy Comes let nothing hinder yr speedy sending to us ye news by Posts and fyreing great gunnes yt all may be alarmd and our advise is yt yr gett all ye River Indians who are under yr subjection to come and Live neer unto yr to be ready on all occasions and send word to n: England of all and LIEUT. GOV. LEISLER. 167 lend us there helping hand; lett us not be discouraged yc french are not so many as people talk off if we but minde our buissinesse they can be subdued with ye assistance of our neighbours of N: England whose Intrest it is to drive on this warr as much as ours yt it may be speedily ended Wee Desyre yt ye brethren may Recommend ye Smiths not to be dear in repareing our arms since money is so scarce and we only goe to warring and not to hunting we shall taie care to warn ye Sinekes'aiid ye nations living above us to be in Readiness for we being one they hearken to us and tell of N: England yt we shall take care yt ye upper nations be Ready for our security and assistance and lett them be ready also with Ships and great gunns by water and we will plague him by land we are resolved not to goe out a hunting but to minde ye warr for ye sooner ye french be fallen upon ye better before they gett men and provisions from fiance as there usuall custome is doe give a bever Skinn A;NSWER upon ye maquase Sachims Propositions by ye mayr aldermen and Commonality of ye Citty of albany and Military officers of ye sd Citty and County att the Citty hall ye 26 febry 16 8 9 BRETMHREN-Your Coming heir according to the Custom of your ancestors to Condolee y death of the brethren murthred at Shinnectady is very acceptable whereby your Inclination to wards us is demonstrate, wee must acknowledge that they did not keep so good watch as they ought Considereing what a false and deceit full Enemy they had to deal with all but that wn made them secure was ye great trust they repossed in the 45 maquase who came heire and tendred there service to goe and be ye out watch and to spy ye Enemiy, which end powder and lead was given them as they understood wee wer about hyreing of Clhristians to send thither but wer un happily Deverted by the sd Companie of maquase who promised to have four posts ready to to goe tto there own Country and two to runn hither if any Enemy should appear for the Brethren did assur us that no french Could Come heir without beeing Discouered and then would all fall Into our hands wee are likewise mindfull how yt ye 5 nations last fall wher 168 ADMINISTRATION OF the gentlmen of new Engld were heir did declare how they would Encompasse the french of Canida that they should not break out this winter without being Discoverd and fallen upon and die-likewise propose by our messeinggers arnout and Robt Sanders at the generall meeting of onnondage to have 307: 400 men sent hither to be Readie on all occasions but see non Now Brethren this Evill is done and Cannot bee Called back again, and ye only meanes the prevent ye Like for the futur is to keep good watch and to have good Courage to oppose and resist ye Enemy wee are no wayes Discomfitted for this misfortune It is ye fortun of warr wee doe not feare to be Even with the french in a short time wee have alredy sent Letters to all our nighbours of n: England Virginia and maryland the subjects of ye great king of England and acquainted them of the Evill done heir by the french and how requisite it is yt ships be fitted out with all Convenient speed to goe to quebek and to presse the bussinese there more wee doe now send prsons to N: Yorke and n: England on purpose to lay open the Case before them &a to move them to Rigg out vessels not only to hinder succor comeing from france but to take Quebek itt Self as also to send more men hither yt we may then send men along with yw to annoy ye Enemy in there Country: In ye mean time we recommend ye brethren to Send for 200 men from ye upper nations to joyn with yw to keep ye french in Continuall allarm and doe them what mischeeffe imagineable and the onnondage and Sinnekes must goe doune ye river of Cadarachqui and meet ononoyr about Mont Royall and annoy ye Enemy there; we shall in ye mean while fortify ye toune and put our Selfs in a good posture of defence yt we may not be surprized as they of Shinnechtady were and make all preparations to oppose ye Enemy The Brethren see yt we are in warr with france now there is no time to speak of peace the french as you will observe have fallen on both end of ye Chain Butt not broke it lett us keep ye Covenant so much ye faster wh never hes had ye crak since ye verry first ye Christians came here They strove to lull us as all as leep by there Messengers at onnondage Speaking of peace and then they were upon ye way hither to Commit this murther LIEUT, GOV. LEISLESR. 169 The brethren need not fear for a Cessation to hinder us to Pursue ye Enemy for as we told yw before ye king yt ordered that was a papist and a great frinde of ye french but our psent Great king will pursue ye warr to ye uttmost therefore we must all prepare for warr% It well there fore be verry requisite that ye brethren for there better Security come and plant this summer att Shinnechtady upon ye Land yt kannot be Cultivate this year that we may be near to on onoyr upon any occasion Concerning yr Proposition of ye Skachkook Indians tis Concluded on some days agoe to propose to ye Skachkook Indians ye Planting on Marte gerritse Island hard by ye toune and ye River Indians yt lived below shall also come together to be ready on all occasions Wee must Insist and recommend yw to perswade there of oneyde to Send ye Priest hither for yw have Seen how dangerous it is to have such persones among yw who Informs ye Enemy of all yr doings and discovers all our desyns we shall secure him yt he runn not away and when ye ouner demands him and ye troubles are over shall be deliverd for he can do.e more harm in oneyde then 100 men We think it Convenient yt one or two of yr Sachims stay here and yt a Sachim of each nation be here to assist in ye managemt of ye affaires of ye warr was give them 6 belt of wampum Some Duffells Tobaccy and some baggs with Provision After ye proposition was answerd they gave a shout according to ye Custome which Signified amen they would Continue ye warr to the uttmost After ye sd answer The Maquase Sachims sd you [have heard] repeated our answer we are [going to pursue the Enemy and] are not discouraged A mistake can [be committed] by ye best and wisest of men and we [are resolved] now to persue ye war with all Vigour, We have a hundred men out in persute of ye Enemy still who are good skouts in ye mean time, we Expect all ye Sachims of y( 170 ADMINISTRATION OF upper nations to Consult with us- who will come to Condole ye death of our brethren murtherd at Schinnechtady you need not fear our being ready wee are soon fitted out our ax is in our hands butt take care of yr selfs to be in Readinesse the Shipps yt must doe ye principall worke ar long a fitteing out and Rigging we doe not design to goe out wth a small troop as skouts but as soon as. ye nations come together we well goe with a whole army to Ruine ye french Country; ye bussinesse must be sorone brought to a Pereod therefore send in all haste to N: England for we nor yw cannot live long in this Condition we must order it soe yt ye french be in a Continuall fear and alarm and yt ye way to be in Peace here Concerning ye Skachkook Indians in our opinion they lye well where they are as a good watch they are our Childeren we will take good care yt they doe there duty but as for ye Indians yt Live below ye toune them we mean must be sent for up and gott to plant and live together to be alwayes in Readinesse upon occasion This is a true Copy Examind pr ROBT LIVINGSTON Att a meeting &c. albany FebY 26th 16sPresent as before, also, L: v. Shaik Ev. Banker Mo gerritse Lt abr Schuyler R. Sanders gabriel Thomson & Capt Bull. WHEREAS it is thougt Convenient yt all fences & Timber be Removed 60 Paces from ye City Stockadoes, you are therefore hereby Required in there Majes name to warn all people yt have there fences & Timber or oyr materials so neer ye outside of ye fence whereby ye Sight Rounde ye Toune walls is hindred to Remove ye same in 24 hours time, else must be Removed at there Cost actum in albany ye 26th day of feb 169 pr order of ye Civill & Military officers RT LIv: C1 To R: Pretty Esqr high Sherriffe of ye Citty & County of Alb: LIEUT. GOY. LEISLER. 171 Att a meeting &c. albany Feb 27th 16 The Bussinesse b:eing taken into Consideration concerning Sending agents to N: Yorke & New England to acquaint them off affares here, and to Desyre assistance for ye Preservationi of there Majes Intrest in these parts it was puft to ye vote And these following vote for a Person to be sent to N: Yorke & one to N: England pr Schuyler Mayr Claes Ripse C. Jan Janse Bleeker gabriel Thomson Reynier Barents Johannes Cuyler D. Wessells Liv van Shaik C. Jochim Staets Evert Bankertt albt. Ryckman abr: Shuyler C. Sanders Glenn Kiliaen van Renselaer Robt Sanders It is voted by 7 votes yt Joh: Cuyler goe to N: Yorke 5 votes yJ Reynier Barents goe & 2 yt Livinus van Shaik goe It was Resolved nemine Contradicente yt Robt Livingston goe with all Convenient Speed to Canetticut and Boston, & declare ye Condition of this County, & desyre yt all Endevors may be ased to Rigg out vessells towards Quebek, & Prevent all succor comeing from fiance & and to Request ye assistance of fifty men and one hundred Barrells of Porke and Beefe, & if no men can be obtained then ~400 in money & yt Commission & Instructions be given him accordingly It is thougt Convenient to write to ye gent of ye County of Ulster yt one of ye gent yt was lately here be desyred to goe 1;6 N: England with Robt Livingston our agent to moove ye gentn there in ye behalfe of yt County for all Possible aid as above. And yt by no means ye Compe of Capt Bull be (draune off but stay here till a govr Comes or further order from there Majes for our Releefft Robt Livingston desyred to be Excused from goeing to N:!England not judgl^?.' himself cappable of mannageing a Bussiaesse;of yt momi'i- but if ye gent would not excuse him yt he 172 ADMINISTRATION OF might take Capt gerrit Teunise along with him, who knew most of ye gent of ye neighbouring Collony wh was graunted Resolved Since Johannes Cuyler Refuses yt Reynier Barents with all Convenient Speed goe to Sopus & there in our name Request Capt Garten or one of ye gentn yt were Last here to goe to Boston along with Robt Livingston & Capt gerrit Teunise agents to Procure ye assistance of 50 men and Provisions, and if no men can be Procured, to Procure some money, and use all Pressures Imaginable yt Shipping may be Equipd to goe to invade Canida, & ytye sd Person may be at Catskill on Munday night in order to proceed on ye journey, ye sd Mr Barents is to use all Endeavors wth ye gent of Sopus to Procure 50 men with Provisions for our assistance as also 500 skepels of Indian Corn for there Majes acct. for ye Indians yt goe out to warr agst ye french, & Comeing to N: Yorke ye sd Barents is to inform them of.affares there & Insist with ye authority there for ye assistance of men provisions & money, according to instructions which shall be given him. Resolved that for ye easier managemt of ye Present affares in this juncture yt 6 persones out of ye Convention be appointed to order matters who are Dirk Wessells Recordr L: van Shaik wCh sd Persones are for ye Capt Jan Bleeker future to take ye Charge Capt Marte gerritse of doeing all Publike Reynier Barents Bissinesse in this County Evert Banker Orderd yt ye following Instructions be given to Mr. Reynier Barents bounde to N: Yorke who not understanding English desyre yt they might be in Dutch. [Translation.] INSTRUCTIONS given by the Civil & Military officers of the City and County of albany to Reynier Barents one of the Common Council of this city, who is sent to N. York as their Agent. 1. You shall go with all Convenient Speed to the Sopus and there in our name instantly require Capt. Garten or one of the gentle LIEUT. GOV. LEISLER. 173 men who were recently here, to accompany Robt Livingston our Agent to N. England, and there procure if possible the assistance of 50 men with Provisions, and if no people can be spared, to request money to aid in assisting the King and Queens cause in this County and that all means be used to persuade them to equip ships to invade Canada, and to the End that the said journey may be most speedily prosecuted, he will please notify said agent from the Esopus to be next Monday at Catskill with Capt Gert Teunise where our Agent shall be to proceed together by Tachkanick to Harford, conveying the horses over from Cattskill. 2. You are to use all means to persuade the gentlemen of the Sopus to send 50 men to our assistance with provision, and if 50 cannot be obtained, then 30. 3. You will acquaint the gentlemen in the Sopus with all the circumstances here and how necessary it is that we have 500 Skepels of Maize for Supplying the Indians, requesting that they be pleased to send hither together a like quantity for their Majesties acect There shall be no doubt but such shall be thankfully paid for at the first settling. 4 When arrived at N. York you will have to wait on the Governor if he be arrived, otherwise on the authority there, and inform them pertinently of all the circumstances that have occurred especially here since our last letters of the 15th inst that the Indians and Christians who pursued the French, could not bring them back. 5. That they bring all their sea force together to unite with our neighbours of Boston to attack Canada. 6. That we require people here to defend this place; also some young Frieslanders (frissemaets) to accompany the Indians as these Complain that no Christians go with them & that they shall act in like manner by our young men. 7 That we here cannot subsist without supplies, to wit of Meat & Pork with Corn if things are to prosper here-that provision be therefore sent up with the people. 8. That you do also inform them how badly off this city is for money to defray the publick expenses which are daily so onerous 174 ADMINISTRATION OF that they cannot be met, and that ~ - - be sent us for the King's Service 9 That you do Set all this fully before them according to the merits of the case, and beseech them to lay aside all animosities and divisions and that every one exert his power to crush the Common Enemy. 10. That you keep an exact account of your expenses during this journey which will be allowed you by the public. BY the Convention of the Civill & military officers of ye Citty & County of albany WHEREAS it is thougt convenient yt a fit Person be Commissionated to goe to N: Yorke to Communicate to ye authority there ye State & Condition of this Place and Confideing in ye Integrity and fidelity of Reynier Barents one of ye assistants of this Citty & a member of our Convention, have Desyred and authorized him wth all Convenient Speed to goe to N: Yorke & to hasten there aid of men provisions & money for ye Preservation of there Maj8e Intrest in these parts & to use all Pressing Endevors that they may joyn with our neighbors of N: England to fitt out vessells to annoy ye french at Canida Earnestly Desyreing yt ye sd Reynier Barents may be Reputed and Esteemed as our agent in that Behalfe, Ratefyeing & Confirming whatever he shall act or doe about ye p'mises, given undr our hands & Sealls in albany ye 20th day of february 16-9 and in ye first year of ye Reign of our Souvraign Lord & Lady Wm & Mary king & Queen of England &a-169 9 Ordered yt ye following Instructions be Delivered to Robt Livingston & he Desyred to Proceed in his journey -for N: England wth all Expedition INSTRUCTIONS for Robert Livingston Gentn Sent by ye Convention of ye Civill & Military officers of ye Citty & County of albany to be there agent in n: Engld 1 Yow are to goe with ye first Conveniency to Canetticut along with Capt Gerrit Teunise and such Person as ye Gent: of ye LIEUT. GOV. LEISLER. 175 County of Ulster shall appoint to joyn with yu in this bussinesse, & if no such Person come to Catskill as is appointed then with Cy sd Capt Gerrit Teunise & Communicate to ye Govr & Councill of Canetticut the state of affares here, & in what Danger this Part of there Majes Territory is in) if not speedily assisted by our neighbours, 2 Yow are to acquaint them how Requisite it is yt some sudden means be used to fitt out vessells to goe to Canida and Invade Quebek which is ye Easier and surer way then by Land, since Quebek is but meanly fortified, & few men there, ye strentch of Canida being Drawn up to mont Royall wh ye french have fortified. 3 Yow are to make ye addresse to ye sd Govr & Councill of Canetticut for ye assistance of fifty Brisk young men or more fitt for traveling in ye woods to goe out upon occasion wth our People and ye Indians to annoy ye Enemy 4 After yu have discoursed of ye mean Condition of this Place & how Scarce Provisions are like to be the farmers leaveing there habitations, since ye murther Committed at Shinnectady; where great store of all sorts of Provisions was Destroyed, then yu are to Desyre ye quantity of one hundred Barrells of Porke or Beefe Equivalent for there Majes use to be Employed as occasion shall Require for there Majes Troops that lye in- garrison here for ye Defence of this part of ye Country 5 If ye govr & Councill of Canetticut doe Decline to send any more men or no Provisions hither then yu are to Insist yt ye Compe of Capt Bull stay here till further order from there Majes since it would be of Dangerous Consequence to draw off sd Compe at this juncture & Raise jealousies among ye Indians, while they are so Eager for more men to Pursue ye warr against ye french. 6 Yow are to goe from Canetticut to Boston and apply yr Self to ye governr and Councill there, & Inform them of all affares here, what dammage ye french have done & what Subtle Practices they use to draw of ye 5 nations of Indians from there Dependance on ye Imperiall Croune of England to side with ye french & how dangerous it would be to there Majes Intrest if sa nations should hearken to ye Enemy. 176 ADMIINISTRATIOC 0.? 7 That ye only means to Secure thlere Countryes from ye Incursions of ye french and there ITndians would be to Equipp & Rigg out some vessels with men. t'o Invade Quebek, & to pavent all Supplyes comeing fronm france whereby ye french will be Discomfited and our Indians Incouraged to Pursue ye warr by Land 8 That we of this governmt are not able to Resist ye Power of Canida without ye assistance of our neighbors, & therefore Desyre yt fifty men or more may be Speedily sent hither for ye Defence of ye Place and to Pursue ye Enemy upon dccasion and one hundred Barrells of Porke & Beefe for there subsistence, which with that dayly Expected froma N: Yorke will much Contribute for ye Safety of ye Place, since ye People here are so much Impoverished & Provisions so Scarce by ye out plantations being Deserted yt ye forces cannot be maintained without a Supply 9 Yow are to acquaint ye sd Governr & Councill what cost & Charge we have been att, wth ye Indians, since these Revolutions to secure them to this governmt, & yt it is Impossible to Proceed without ye assistance of ~- - -- to be Emp )oyed yt wayw wh shall be Exactly accompted for, what way Disposed & undoubtedly allowed by there Majes 10 Yow are to strive to make them senceible how usefull ye 5 nations will be during yc warr wth ye french of Canida & how Dangerous it would be to loose them at such a juncture & ye only means to induce them to be vigorous in ye Prosecution of ye warr will be by giving them a good example since they verry well know yt ye English here farr exceed them of Canida 11 Yow are to keep an Exact account of whatever. Charges yw & ye Persones goeing with yw from this County are att in ye Prosecution of yr Journey out & home & whatever yw Disburse over and above ye money now given shall be allowed yw on acet of ye Publik which if not be allowed by there Majes then shall be paid by ye County 12 Since it is unknowne to us what occurrences yw may meet withalli in this Employ. Yow are to act & doe in our Behalfe LIEUT. GOV. LEISLER. 177 with our sd neighbours whatever yw shall juge expedient & needful for ye secureing of there Majes Intrest here in these parts and Safety of there Subjects, Ratefying & Confirming whatever yw shall avct or Perform Concerning ye Premises Albany 4th of MSarch N. B. ye alteration of Chargeing ye 16s- Expenses to ye Publike which if not be allowed by there Majes then shall be p( by ye County was made before Signing Signd PR SCHUYLER Mayr DIRE WESSELLS Recordr JAN JANSE BLEEKER alderm: JOHANNES WENDEL alderm: K. V. RENSSELAER By the Conventilon of ye Civill and Military officers of ye Citty and County of albany WHEREAS'ye Exigency of aflares here doth Require that some fitt Persones be sent from hence to our neighbors of N: England to Inform ye authority there, in what condition we are in~ & what apprehensions we have of ye french doeing more mischeffe in these Parts Especially iff they should gett ye 5 nations of Indians westward to there devotion which they Indefaticably strive to accomplish, & Confideing and being sufficiently assured of ye Integrity & fidelity of our well beloved friendes Robert Livingston gent: & Capt Gerrit Teunise, we have Desyred & authorized Impowered & Commissionated them to be our agents in yt affare to treat with & consult ye honble Govr & Councill of there Maje3 Respective Collonyes of Massachusetts and Canetticut such things aS shall be Requisite for there Majes King William & Queen Maryes Service & ye Safety of there subjects in these Parts laying before them ye necessity of joyning all forces that can be procured to Invade the french of Canida by Sea & Land & Put a Stopp to there wicked & cruell Designs & also to desyre such assistance & supply from them as this place doth stand in need Off, Earnestly Desyreing they would give Credence to ye sd Robt Livingston & Capt Gert Teunise, & yt they may be Reputed & Esteemed as our agents in yt Behalfe, given under our hands & VOL. II. 12 178 ADMINISTRATION OF sealls in albany ye 3d day of March in ye 2d year of there Majes Reign anoq. Dom. 1690 Signd pr SCHUYLER Mayr D WESSELLS Recordr, JOH: WENDEL alderam: JAN BLEELKER K. V. RENSELAER The meaner sort of People of ye Toune were Extream Importune wth ye Magistrates to Prohibite ye Exportation of goods who being verry Refractory & unruly ye Magistrates to satisfye them Publishd this following [Translation.] By the Convention of the Civill & Miletary Officers of the Citty and County of Albany. WHEREAS there are great Complaints & murmurings among the Commonalty because the Traders export their goods, whereby many persons are so discouraged that they will quit the place, leaving their Majesties interest here and their subjects a prey to the Enemy. The Civil & Military Officers so as to prevent such mischiefs, hereby expressly forbid all persons whomsoever to export any Merchandize such as Indian Cargoes,.shirts, linen, cloths, Kerseys, Sarges and other goods requisite for the clothing as well of Christians as Indians, on pain of Confiscation of said goods for their Majesties use. But they are permitted to take away all Beavers, peltries, money, furniture & household articles, fine Silk stuffs, lace and such like fine articles and goods unnecessary for Clothing which cannot be used here-In order that all such may be regularly done, Johannes Beekman Jan Vinnagen & Jacobus Turke are ordered to inspect the goods in the houses before they are embarked, and permit such to be put on board And all men are forbidden to depart this County pursuant to previous Proclamation dated 7th August 1689 which is now Confirmed. Done 4th March 1690. LIEUT. GOV. LEISLER. 179 BY THE LIEVT GOVERNR &C [From Papers &c. in Leisler's time.] WHEREAS One Robert Livingston by the Instigacon of the Devill did utter ye Malice of his heart in Saying that he was Enformed that a parcell of rebells were gone out of holland to England & that ye prince of Orange headed them Saying that they might See how they got of againe or words to this purpose & that they should Come to ye Same End that Monmouth did & hath Comitted other high Crimes. These are in his Maties Name to will and require all psons wthin this Province to apprehend ye sd Livingston & bring him before me to answer for ye Same & all governrs & Magistrates of ye Neighbouring Colonies are hereby advertized & desired In his Maties King Wins behalfe to assist In apprehending ye sd Livingston if wthin their Jurisdiction as they do tender ye King's Interest, ye Welfare of ye Protestant Cause & their Allegiance. Given &c March the 1st 1689. JACOB LEISLER To Capt Benjn Blagge & all others whom this shall or may Concerne. BY THE LIEVT GOVERNR & COUNCILL &ca WHEREAS a Certaine number of People terming themselves a Cohvention wth In the City & County of Albany have vindicated ye authority of Co11 Thomas Dongan & Countenanced his & Sr Edmund Andros their Illegall & Arbitrary Comissions & proceedings acting thereby Likewise having assumed to themselves the Ruling power by keeping his Mati s fort &ca Contrary to ye Authority of this province to ye great disturbance of his Maties subjects and other ye good & peaceable Inhabitants thereof as also Contemning his Maties Orders & directions not only by not proclaiming ther Maties acording to an Order from ye Rt Honble ye Lords of his Maties Most honbie Privy Councill dated ye 29th July 1689 but opposing & in an hostile & rebellious manner forbidding and hindring ye Same besides many others Seditious 180 ADMINISTRATION OF practises all wch are pernicious & destructive to his MatieS Interest ye peace tranquillity & welfare of his Province & ye Governmt thereof; & hath been ye ocasion of Encouraging ye French & Indian Ennemies to attack and destroy the Inhabitants of Skannechtady, to ye great weakning of his Maties forces in ye sd County. These are to authorise Empower & Constitute you Mrs Joannes de Bruyn Joannes Provoost & Jacob Melbourne to take into your care and under your directions & Coinand all ye forces now raised in N: York and adjacent Countyes wth all ammunicon & provisions thereunto apointed & forthwtl proceed from hence to Albany aforesd where you are to Super Intend direct Order and Coutroull all matters & things relating his Maties Interest & revenue in that County & ye Security & Safety of his people & subjects: therein by treating wth ye Confederate Indians and other Such Methods & Meanes as to you shall seem meet that may Conduce to ye.End before menc6ned likewise to proclaime their' publishing their gracious Orders & denounce war agst ye french King &ca Subduing Reducing and bringing to their obedience all such who oppose ye same & to settle & establish ye Sd County in ye Same Method & Constitution as this his Maties City & County of N. York & others thereunto apertaining & further you are to obtaine ye fort ORANGE at Albany from those of ye Convenc6n & there adherents by due sum6ns offering them such Condic6ns as may be Agreable to ye End abovesd, but in case of resistance then you are to treat them as Ennemies to or Sovereigne Lord ye King his Crowne & dignity ye same to Subdue & over Come by force of Arms & all manner of Hostility whatsoever willing and C6manding all psons within the County aforesd to Be aiding and assisting therein as they will Answer ye Contrary at their utmost perills hereby giving & granting unto you full power & authority to Consult Act do & conclude all matters & things for or concerning his Maties Interest & ye Welfare of and Security of that county as ye case shall require & to your judgemt shall seem requisite, conferming ratifieng & establishing whatsoever you shall so act or do in ye prmisses to Be good Valid & of full force & virtue to all 1 "Maties King William & Queen Mary," These words are omitted in the original. LIEUT. GOV. LEISLERo 181 Intents Construccons & purposes whatsoever GIVEN under or hands & Seals &c New York this 4th of March 1689 HENRY COYLER BENJAMIN BLAGGE SAMUEL STAETS JACOB LEISLER HENRY VAN FEURDEN P D'LANOY JOANNES VERMILJE SAMUEL EDSALL BY THE LJEVT GOVERN1 & COUNCILL WHEREAS wee are made Sensible of great disturbance that hath arrizen amongst his Maties Liege Subjects in ye county of vlster created & heightened by some ill affected psons to ye pson & governmt of this Province. These are to authorize Constitute & Empower you Msrs Joannes De Bruyn Joannes Provoost & Jacob Milborne to Consult Super Intend direct Order Settle & Establish all Matters & Things relating his Maties Interest & revenue in ye sd County & Call in all C6missions granted by C11 Thomas dongan & Sr Edmund Andros by virtue of power & authority derived from ye Late King James & what Else shall seem necessary & convenient for his Maties prsent Interest & ye Safety of that county, Hereby ratifying & Confirming whatsoever you shall so act or do for good, valid & of full force & virtue to all Intents Construccons & purposes whatsoever. GIVEN &c New York March 4th 1689. SAMUEL STAETS, JACOB LEISLER, HENDK JANS) P D LA NoY HENRY CUYLER, SAMUEL EDSAL. COPIES OF SEVERALL LETTERS SENT TO MARYLAND. March 4: 1689: in fort William HONOBLE SIR-Yours of the 4th January & one of Mr Andrew Abington of the first of ffebruary I have lately well received, but that other you mention I never had, I am sorry to understand the sad murder of Mr John paine by our insatiable enemies the papists, & though your papish rebellious grandees have sheltered themselves in Virginia, I assure you I shall take all possible care & 182 ADMINISTRATION OF apprehend any such persones coming from your government in,this province without your pass-I perceive that your papists are very insolent & couragious, so it was with ours, & that at a distance I have of late catched a messinger bound from hence to Boston & opened his letters, by which I have discovered severall hellish designes, upon which discovery I catched Coll: Bayard & the attorney william Nicholls-Coll: Dongan, Major Brockhouse Stephannus Van Cortland Major willet, daniell whitehead, doctor Reid, Mathew plowman the late Collector, have absconded themselves out of this government to pensilvania or Maryland wee humbly desire your honor to take all convenient care to apprehend all such persons coming from hence to your government without passes that they may be prevented to bring to pass their wicked designe hereinclosed is a coppy of a letter received from Barbadoes wherein you will see how I have apprehended suspected and sent 2 Irish rebellious traiters in a pensilvania Bark but were conveyed ashore to goe to Maryland, the sd letter will informe you the state of those Islands, for newes of England wee have non but old, I received a gracious letter from his matie directed to the Lievt Governor ffrancis Nicholls & in his absence to such as for the tyme beingtake care to preserve the peace & administer the lawes in the province of Newyork having Commission from the Committies of the sd province so to doe, I received the sd gracious letter In which I was ordered to take upon me the government and to take to my assistance soe many of the prinll Inhabitants freeholders as I thought fitt & to doe all things which to the place of his maties Lievt. Governor & commander in Chiefe doth or may appertaine for his Maties service & to the wellfare of the Inhabitants-according to the law & custome of the sd province, & I received an other letter from the honorable privy councell with order to proclaime the prince & princess of orange to be King & Queen of England Scotland ffrance & Ireland defenders of the faith & Supream Lord & Lady of the province of newyork and all other territories and dominions to the Crown of England belonging, with all was solemnly affected the 10 december last & ever since have been busie to settle the province, but by severall ill affected people have been obstructed so much as in LIEUT. GOV. LEISLER. 183 them lies keeping by their old Commissiones granted by the late King James authority, of which I have gott in some per force some willing about 150: wee are resolued to gett them all, to our great griefe I must acquaint you of the sad and deplorable massacre which happened at skenectady near Albany by the french & their Indians the 9th of ffebruary last betwixt Saturday & Sunday at eleaven of the cloack in the night 200 men fell upon them & most barbarously murdered sixty two men women & children & burned the place left but 5 or 6 houses unburned carried away captive 27 the rest escaped many of which being about 25 persones much damnified by the french women with chyld ript up, children alive throwen into the flames, some their heads dashed agt the doors & windows all occasioned by their neglect of their not watching, denying to obey under the command of the Commission of Sir Edmond, the sd commander being onely spared with all which belongs to him a safeguard being sett in his house & he himselfe to release the prisoners he desired, last Nover a certaine number of rebellious people at Albany calling themselves the convention & ruling by the arbitrary commission of Sir Edmond and encouraged and supported by some of the wicked creatures of Sir Edmond, desired from me assistance of men gunes ammunition & money being afeared of the french to whom we have sent 52 men 50 lbs match 950 lbs pouder, boulits &ct with arriving there agt their expectatione would not receive them, & were left there by the Inhabitants desire, the sd rebells with their fort keept the Inhabitants under a faire. I have sent up this winter & commissioned one Captn with 25 men to Joine with our confederate Indians to warre agt the french at Canada, who were hindered by the sd rebells, who proclaimed upon paine of being punished for rebells if they mett above four men soe they were prevented to goe, we would else have discovered the Enemy & prevented that disaster, wee have intelligence of 900 men more out in parties to attacque Albany & New England, we have sent up forces & three members of the counsell to order all matters for his Maties intrest & the safety of these provinces, they have also presents to the nationes of the confederate Indians & to endeavour to strengthen them & corroborate their enmities to the french & if they see meet 184 ADMINISTRATION OFr to send any of our forces to joine with them agt' the french, If by any meanes possible you can with all- the speed assist us with 100 or at least 5,0 men to joine with our confederate Indians to destroy or take Canada, & to advise the Government of Virginia thereof & to invite them for the like assistance, they will enjoy the benefits thereof with you, & if by Gods blessing wee obtaine success, you need never to fear any incursions of any Indian whatsoever, the bearer is to stay for an answer at Mr William Harris neare Chester River, if any ships pray participate me of these news specially if any concerning this province, I expect myn Ensigne by way of Maryland whom I have sent with letters to his Matie having no more to add onely my prayers to God to preserve your countrys from the like or any cruelties as we have had, the Indians will be very glad if they heare of hopes of some assistance of Maryland & Virginia, after my respects I remain &ct ffort william March 4th 1689 HONORABLE SIR GOVERNOR OF BOSTON Yours of the 8th instant by Mr pembrock I received & I returne you many thanks for the care I perceive you have had for our packet, since your last wee have received the sad & miserable newes from Skenectedy neere Albany whereof wee understand is laid to your woefull account it is such newes as we feared long since, Alase what could there be expected of a certane number of rebellious people that remained rlaling under that arbitrary Commissione of sir Edmund at Albany within this province, and encouraged & supported by Connecticoatt by ordering their forces sent thither to obserue the directions of the sd rebells named a Conventione, being well assured the same is supported more specially by that trayterous John Allan the Secretary of that Collony immediately upon the newes wee sent a messinger to advise the Governor that he may expect three messingers from hence with full power to propose to them what may be necessary for his Matie3 intrest & the safety of these provinces which was answered with great disdaine imaginable, soe that wee are denied the assistance wee expected from that part to day I hope our forces will depart being already embarqued wee send also three LIEUT. GOV. LEISLER. 185 members of our counsell with presents to the nationes of the confederate Indianes and to endeavour to strengthen & corroborate their enmity to the french, and if they see meet to send any of our forces to joine with them agt the french att the first hearing of the sd newes I immediately made an allarum and in the morning disarmed & Imprisoned about 40 commissioned officers by sir Edmond who in the afternoon delivered up the same which was effected in the night by sixteen troopers, so that I gott in about 150 Commissiones & our militia well setled, soe that wee are now in a very good posture of union & better able to resist an enemy as ever, I have seaven in confinement, & a great many have abscond themselves with dongan, I shall. be glad to understand from your Honr what measures you are like to take to attack the french and what assistance you are willing to afford us, for one exploit agt Canada by land or sea (Connecticott having refused to advise with us) That soe we may take our measures by it I desire your Honor by the first for a Catalogue of all the bookes & papers in your custody relating to the province of New york I have received letters from Coll: Coode from Maryland, he advises me that the insatiable enimies the papists there were very insolent & couragious and that some of their grandees rebells. are sheltered in Virginia from whence they are come with a vessell and with force have murdered one Mr John Baine his Maties Collector so that they are there as well as here in continuall trouble, Inclosed is a copie of a letter I received from the honorable Governor of Barbadoes to which I referre your Honor and desire to Major wintrop who was falsly informed about the two traitors therein mentioned That he may be fully satisfied therein, If anything further presents for his Maties service I shall not be wanting to advise your Honor & pray the like from you & the honour of further correspondance, wishing your Honor all happiness I am your most humble servant 186 ADMINISTRATION OF ffort william March the 5th 1689 To THE GOVERNOR OF BOSTONE Honored sir-yesterday was my last to your Honr This morning I received newes that one Robert Livingstone who by his rebellione hath caused great disorder in the County of Albany and also in the wholl province by maintaining the late comissiones granted unto them by sir Edmund Andross & Coll: dongan & other directiones which were given by the magistrates which were appoynted per Coll; dongan & sir Edmond Andross whereby they have caused a divisione & a rebellione, so that they have been careless of watching, denying 52 souldiers which were sent up under the command of Capt States Inhabitant at Albany chosen by most of the Inhabitants there & commissionated by the Governr & Councill in hindering one Capt Ruster who was commissionated with 25 men to joine himselfe with our confederate Indianes to proceed agt the french, This rebell Livingstone being conscious of his crymes & understanding our forces were coming up, he upon pretence of going to raise forces at Connecticutt & Boston for to defend Albany is departed yesterday for that intent, as is sd, to obtaine such if possible as may side with them & be obedient to their rebellious conventione, I beleeve they may expect him againe if the rogue does not rune further which I doubt he will if not prevented, by apprehending of him he being also considerably indebted to his Matie, therefore have sent the bearer Capt Benjamin Blagg or Lievt daniell Teneur to persue him with a warrant to that purpose desireing your Honr to assist him or either of them in the securing the Sd rebell it will be a great service, I will further recommend your Honr not to faill to assist us, so well by sea as by land not doubting if you are brisk & doe what you can but what we shall conquer Cannada pray give us speedy advice to what we may trust that we may encourage the Indianes & tell them the truth, This is all for the present after my service I remaine sir &c: [A duplicate of the above was addressed also to Conneciteut.] LIEUT. GOV. LEISLER. 187 Honole S —Hauing this opportuniti wee thinke it meet to Send a few lines to prove our respects to you, and to manifest our great approbation for what you haue done for ye Securing of ye place where you live, also understanding you haue an Order from his Excellent Majesty the King for ye settleing of matters in point of govermt which hath been Essayed to be imposed upon us in these parts, but could not comply wth being as we apprehend built upon ye old foundation of a power wch we haue for this many yeares groaned under, as your Honor Very well Knoweth in many respects, therefore hope you will not blame us if we doe not willingly Subject to one old bondage againe, but rather use all Lawfull means of deliverance from ye same, not in any disobedience to Authority whether inferior or Supreame, for Ser we are Very desireous to let you understand yt we haue agreed to send over to his Majesty both a true Narration of ye grievances we haue suffered this many yeares under an Arbitrary power, & a Petition to their Majesties yt we might be rejoyned th Conecticut Govermt as formerly, agreeably to the act of Parliament, yt all places (N: E.) being perticularly mentioned shall haue the same priviledges they enjoyed in ye yeare 1660 restored unto them, wch doth encourage us to make our Addresse to his Majesty hopeing to obtaine his Royall Favour wth other his Loyall Subjects, and in ye meane tyme to stand up both p'sons and Estates in defence of his Majesties Royall Authority togeather wth other his Majesties Subjects in those parts against all his Knowne Enemies, & if there be need, to afford what assistance we are able not laying ourselves open to danger, therefore humbly intreate your Sr to Consider, yt we of Easthampton are a fronteer Plantation & lye most open to danger of any Enemy by Sea, and are intended Very shortly to send forth our skouts to Montaukut and so to ye end of yr Island Eastward yt so if any Shipping be seene upon ye Coasts, tymely notice may be given not onely to our selves but all over ye Island, & to N. Y. wch we hope be of good use for ye publick safety Sr we humbly intreate of you if there hath not been that Concurrence as you may desire, not to impute it as to any disaffection to your person, much lesse to yor Authority (for ye most part of us) being of ye same Religion, 188 ADMINISTRATION OF Subjects to the same King, desireing of God your prosperity & good successe in ye place you are in, & that we haue a faire correspondence wth you, & if you apprehend we are out of ye way, loveingly to convince us of it, & we shall readily hearken to ye same. So we rest your Very Loveing friends & humble servts SAMUELL MULFORDE Easthampton SAMUELL PERSON March 10th 160-9 THOMAS CHATFIELD In the name of ye Rest. Copy. BY THE LIEVT GOVERNR &c WHEREAS Matthew Plowman Late Collector of this Provine is Runn away having in his Custody Severall Bills, Bonds & Entries Belonging to his Maties Revenue not accounted for These are in his Maties name to will & require you to Seize all ye goods & Effects directly or Indeferently belonging to ye sd Matthew Plowman wheresoever to be found In this Province & ye Same to Bring & Cause to Be brought to his Maties Custome howse wthin this City. GIVEN &c New York this 10th March 1689. JACOB LEISLER To Joannes Johnson Esqr high Sherife of this City & County Whereas Lt Daniele terneur hath this 12th day of March 16Shewed mee a warrt seigned Jacob Leisler for ye apprehending of robert Levingston for wards spoken by him said Levingston no time place or yeare mentioned, when they were spoken and where, in the said warrt, all Govrs & magistrates of ye neigbouring Collonys are thereby advertised, & in His majts behalfe to assist in aprehending the said Levingston If within their Jurisdictions as they do tender ye Kings Interest ye welfare of ye protestant religion and I having with my Councill present Considered the warrt and ye disire of assistance in ye execution thereof am ready LIEIUT. GOV. LEISLER. 189 to grant it & to secuire sd;Levingston for,a tryall of ye.abovesd Crimes accordingly to this warrt at our next Court which will be held at hartford ye Second wednesday in aprill next or the Court of assistance at hartford ye last tuesday in may next Provided any person will apeare to give in sufficient security to prosecuite ye sd complaint and make it good or answer all damages in case he fails of soe doing Signed ROBERT TREAT GoVr [March 1689-90] I1NORDo SE Your warrt for seizing Mr Levingston wee have received & the answer to it wch the Governr Gave Lt terneur wee have seen & appoved of it which is our Answer to what you propownded in that warrt but as to what you mention concerning the managment of ye designe against ye french, at Canada wee are willing & free to Joyn with all ye rest of ye Collonys, & provinces in this Wilderness to do what wee shall Judge nessery to manage the designe against ye french the Common Enemy of his Magties subjects in these parts, according to our ability, we heare you have also designed a Considerable force for Canada out of those you have sent and are sending now to Albany wee would encourage that notion but it is not Land forces will effect it but force by seas is necessary and wee have now writt, to ye Gentleman of Boston & must wayt for their resolves till wee hear further from them;Sr wee cannot ad to what wee have formerly writt to you but must advice you to moderation & to make as Little Alterac6n amonge yr Officers of Albany as may be & also that nothing be done to discourage the five nations In Amety with us for if any thing be Done that may have such an aspect -the damages that may come thereby to be answered for by those that are active therein you whare so charged wth aiding and abetting those rebbells of ye Convention at Albany by Capt Bull & our souldiers there to prevent any thing that may looke Like an Incouragement to them wee have sent for our Souldiers whome Imediately upon ye arrivall of yours which we hope will be to your satisfaction I have not to add saue onely Or respects & to desire that you should studdy 190 ADMINISTRATION OF ways of peace that nothing may be moued that may adminster prouocation to yors or us who are Your friends & servts the Gouernr & Councill of Connecticut pr their order Signed JOHN ALLYN Secy BY THE LIEVT GOVERR & COMMANDR IN CHIEF. WHEREAS I am Informed that one Mathys Brockholst wthin dutchess County as yet maintains ye Authority of ye Late King James by Excersising the Office of a Constable & keeping ye Constables Staf. These are therefore In his Maties King WILLIAMS name. to will & require you to Bring ye Body of sd Matys bokholst before me and Councill to Answer for ye Same & all Officers both Military & Civill are hereby Strictly required to aid & assist you therein as they will answer ye Contrary at their Perills. GIVEN under my hand & Seale at fort Wm in N York this 24th day of March 1689 in ye 2d Year of their Maties Reigne. JACOB LEISLER. To Jno Brevoort Constable Harlem ffort william 1689: 24 March MAJOR WINTROP SIR-yours of the 17th of ffebry last past by Capt Lodwicks I have well received and am obliged for your good advice I shall not be wanting in continuing of good correspondance, and hope it will be answered it being as you will observe a great necessity-for his Maties service in these troublesome tymes about Albany we are sending up forces & three members of our councell to settle & order all things there whereof I have given an account to the Honble Gouernor Bradsted & have sent him a coppy of a letter received from Barbadoes & delivered to give you the perusall thereof to which I referre you, Capt Lodwicks is quyte reformed since his voyage to Boston declaring that he was better Informed of the country criminalls their wickedness & intends to keep a better correspondance with us we have newes of Capt Storme LIEUT. GOV. LEISLEBo 191 safe arryvall to London with whom I have sent myne Ensigne with letters to his Matie, so that we hope by the first to receive a gracious acceptance of what we have done having no more to trouble you for the present after myne respects I remaine sir your humble servant [Thee is no address to the following.] A: 1690: 26 March in fort william. HONORABLE SIRS-I received yours last night & am in expectatione of the other gentlemen, tell them I cannot be able to answer your honors Just request onely I rather choose to fall in the hands of the Lord then man, & find not that house fitt for such generall & great concernes, but we can propose one two milles of the toun a good & nett house by Capt. Arian Cornelis where no small pox is, but God be thanked the infection is not so great nor mortall as it is represented to you, the bearer shall take care to informe you &c. Albany ye 17th day of March 1689 Present J: H: Bruyn ) Joh: Provoost Comrs Jac: Milborne ) pr Schuyler Mayor d: wessells Joh: wendel Levinus v: Shayk Jan J: Bleeker Albt Ryckman Kiliaen v: Rens: Marte gerritse Wee the Commissionrs of the Leift governeur of ye Province of N: York, and his Councill find it verry nessesery that ye Compe of Souldiers sent by The Colonie of Conettekot under Comand of Capt Jonathan Bull ought to Remaine here) In Reguard of 192 ADMINISTRATION OF our Curcumstances Concerning the french and there Confedereths, and the alliwed Indians being Ingaged with us haveing taken notis what forces wee are able to Continue for their Incouragernent, after debatting & Consulting with advys of the gentm Present doe Conclude that ye sd Capt. Bull with his sd Compe of Souldiers shall Remaine in this Citty & County of alb: so Long as his Majes Intrest & the Preserving of this Post Requires By order of ye Commissioners JOHANNIS CU CYLE C Albany March 20th 1689 GENTS-According to yor Expectacon yesterday having discoursed wth you: Wee returne for answer. That its Or opinion your pay being promised by the 4 psons you named they ought to performe the said promise, and the Law will compell them at least to give you Sufficient Security upon the arrivall of a governor from England, or within 6 weekes time to haue your payment, in wch wee will give you or Assistance and constitute a Court wch wee haue no reason to doubt but will answer this end. That those who will remaine in the Garrison are at their liberty to continue and reasonable that Wee should Subscribe for their Pay, advancing somewhat for their present accommodation, and Such who are disposed to quit the Garrison are at their Liberty. That Provisions shall be weekly allowed them according to the former Custome: The Kings pay to continue [Endorsed, Capitulacon wth the Garrison in Fort Orange March 20th 1689.] By the Commissioners for ye Citty & County of alb: ye Mayor aldermen & Justices of ye sd County. Present as before, also Claes Ripse WHEREAS There hath unhappely arose differences wch hath created animosities and great distinctions amongst his Maje Subjects in the Citty & County of alb: These are in his Maje name strictly to forbid all Persons whatsoever that they doe no wise asperse Reproach, each other by words or actions lo ye Disquietude or discourgement of any the LIEUT. GOV. LEISLER. 193 good People in this Citty & County, of what rank or quality soever, under penalty of being Prosecuted as disturbers of his Maje Peace and the quiet & Tranquility of the Inhabitants thereof, (upon Conviction of twoo witnesse before any of his Maje Justices of ye Peace) so far as ye Rigour of ye Law will inflict upon them, dated In alb: This 22th day of March 1689. By order of ye Comm: &c. By the Commissionrs for ye Citty & County of alb: &c. WHEREAS great Complaint is made of ye Severall Burgers under ye Comand of their officers in this Citty & County of alb: that they doe not obey ye Lawfull Commands of their Captna and other officers appointed over them These are to will & Require all Persons whatsoever under such Commanders that they in no wise neglect, dispute, denye or Resist the Lawfull Commands of their sd officers upon Penalty of being Proceeded against by the Court marshall (in this time of warr) constituted for ye sd Citty and County whose insures shall be Executed in the most Stricted Rigour, dated In alb: This 22th day of March 1689 By order of ye Commissionrs &c. By the Commissionrs &c. Fovasmuch as many Persons, have given forth that they will depart this County for ye Preservation of their persons &c. and the warr with ye french & their alleyes call for ye Strengthning his Maje forces therein as much as Possible may be, These are in his Majts name to Prohibite and forbid all mankind of what ranke or quality they may bee, from fourteen years of age, unto sixty years if ould, or under, that they do not Transport their Persons out of this County upon any Pretence whatsoever under ye Penalty of forfeiting one hundred Pounds Currant monney of this Province which shall be for defraying the Charge for Support and Carrying on of this Immediate war, against the french and the allyes aforesd Except masters of vessels and Seafareing Persons whose Livelyhoods depend upon the waterg dated In alb: This 22th day of March 1689. By order of ye Commissionrs &c. VOL. II. 13 194 ADMINISTRATION OF By the Commissionrs &c, These are to give notice to all Persons within this Citty & County of alb: That Peter Schuyler Esqr is Establisht Mayor of ye Sd Citty and Joh: wendel, Levinus v: schayk, Jan Janse Bleeker, Albert Ryckman, Claes Ripse, aldermen, and dirck west sels, Guiliam van Renslaer, Marten gerritsen, Sander glen, abrah: States, & dirck Teunisse Justices of ye Peace for ye sd Citty & county, and to Remaine & be until further order from his Maje & all Persons within this s Citty & County are hereby strictly charged that they acknowledge Reverence and obey the same in their Severall Stations upon Penalty of being prosecuted as Enimies to this Province and disturbers of his Maje Peace and the welfare of ye Inhabitants of this Citty & County dated In alb: This 22th day of March and in yeSecond year of his Maje Reign annoq. dom: 1689 By order of ye Commissionrs &c. By the Commissionrs &co These are to Authorise & appoint you Mess: Luycas gerritse & wessel ten Broek to provide and direct all such Provisions of bread as shall be Requisite for supplying those forces wch shall be at all times sent from hence in the Seruice of his Maje against the french and theire confederates according to or orders as shall be directed to Johannis Cuyler as occasion offers, dated In alb: March the 22th 1689 Pr order — By the Commissioners &c, WHEREAS the Records, Bookes and Papers &c. Relating to ye Citty & County of alb: are in the Possession of Mr. Robert Liingston and Mr. Johannis Cuyler being constituted Clerk & Register of ye sd Citty & County, These are in his Maje lname to will & Require you to deliver the s1 Records Bookes and Papers &c. unto ye sd Cuyler And his Receipt shall be a sufficient discharge, dated In alb: This 22t day of March 1689 To Mr. Robt. Livingston or any in whose Costody The same are LIEUTo GOVo LEISLERo 195 At a meeting of the Commisionrs &c. Albany This 22th day of March 16S9 After Consultaceon Relating the present State of this Citty & County of alb: in Reguard of ye war with ye french and Their Confederates, It is Concluded that N: Yorke doth fornish these following p'ticulars Vizt 200 Men 600 Schiple of Indian Come 100 Barrills of Pork 14000 lb of bread 100 Schiple of Pease 200 gall. of Rum 2100 ells Brown osenburg 100 drest dear skins 3000" b of Lead 400 lb of Powder 180 Kartrit Boxes 200 lb of Swan Shott And that ye Citty & County of alb: Doe Provide and furnish the following Percells vizt 6000 lb of Bread 150 Shiple of Pease 100 drest dear Skins 400 lb Pouder 4000 flints 30 bark Conoos 60 gunns: 100 Hatchets 196 ADMINISTRATION OF Albany ye 24th of March 1689. At A meeting were Present ye Commissioners for ye Citty & County of alb. advysing with Sundrey officers of ye Militia There, where upon It is Resolved That ye following persones be Commissionated, vizt. Capt Jochim Staets Comdr of Fort Orange always to, keep under Command in sd fort 60 men Lievt Jonathan wrigt Ens: John IHater Pieter winne Touie Major Capt Johannis wen-del Melgert Wynants Ens: Reynier Barentse Capt Pieter van waggelen f Leift Robt Sanders for alb City Ens: Joh: Bleeker Junr Capt Barnet Luwis Leivt Marte Klock Ens: -—: Capt Marten gerritse Lievt Evert d'Ridder Ens: Zymon van ness Capt Alexander glen Leift Johannis glen for ye County of alb: Ens: douwe Aukus Capt Johannis Bensing LieftAndries Barentse Ens: Johannis Janse Ordered That ye aforesd Commissionated officers Now are Establiseth & shall from this time forth Remaine, and be in full Power & ye Authority, & ye Authority for ye Militia of this & County To act & doe in all matters and things relating Militarie affaires according to ye Rules & decipline of war, untill further order from his Maje king William of England Scotland french & Irland &c. & That seaven of ye sd Commissionrs shall be and are hereby Constituted & aPointed a Court Marshall To Consult, apoint, Judge, order, Censure & determing whatsoever shall aroise under marchall LIFEUT. GOY. LEISLER. 197 notice within -this Citty & County whereof Three Captains & Toune Major are always to be members, onles in ye Majors absence, Then ye Eldert.Capt of ye Fort orange is ever to Preside, To whom all Souldiers & others that are able to bear armes -from 16.years old and upwards are to give:due Reverence & obedience as they-will Answer ye -Contrary at their utmost Perrill, dated in alb: The day & year first written & in ye Second year of his MajeS Reign By order of ye Commissionrs [Translation] By the Commissioners, Mayor Aldermen,and Justices &a of the City and County of Albany. You are hereby ordered in his Majestys King William's.name to take hence forthwith 17 Soldiers under your command, and march with them towards Schagtkook, and take thence (according to the Indians' promise) 20 savages with you and proceed thence to Crown Point, where you shall remain andkeep good watch by day & by night-especially detach each day good outscouts.and spies about half a dutch mile beyond said Crown Point,until,Sundown, and whenever you perceive or meet any French,or their Indians from Canada you shall endeavour to despoil, plunder and do them all injury as enemies, according to the usage of War; and the aforesaid Soldiers are hereby strictly charged to obey their officers in all things. In like manner Dirk albertse Brad is sent with that view with the aforesaid Company of Soldiers as guide and Indian Interpreter, who shall advise and consult with the aforesaid officers in all things that relate to the advantage of his Majties interest and this undertaken expedition; and further you shall remain until further order at the aforesaid Crown point, unless you are assured that a large army of the Enemy is really and truly approaching which it is impossible to resist; then you must send a messenger hither cito cito and endeavor to do your best as far as in your power. Meanwhile you shall occasionally try to make some Bark Canoes to be used should necessity require. We conclude then that you shall remain at the Crown point aforesaid until further order; that is if you be not necessitated 198 ADMINISTRATION OF as abovestated. Thus given under our hands in Albany this 26t' March and in the Second Year of his Majesty's reign annoq dom. 1690. Was Signed J. BRUYN, To Capt Jacobus d'Warm JOHANNIS PROVOoST over the 17 Soldiers aforesaid. Pr SCHUYLER9 DIacK WESSELs, LEV. VAN SCHAYK. Albany, 27 March Ao 16i0, CAPT JACOB MILBORNE, We expect that you have arrived safely to day at N. Yorck. We are obliged to notify you to procure these indispensable necessaries viz. 3 @ 400 unmanufactured horns which can be easily had at Nicolaas Blanks and can be quickly put in order here; further as much duffels as you can get, bleu baize for shirts, provision 400 lbs Swan shot, 50 Kettles. Yesterday evening the Soldiers tormented us considerably for blankets, as it was very cold. We went every where and could not find any The Soldiers from the outposts, also, whom we provided with duffels for coverlets, namely from our own duffelsso that our stock which was intended for the Indians is diminished. The Soldiers in the fort must also have duffels as blankets are not to be had here. The picquet proceed immediately to their post. I forgot to send to you for 8 @ 10 hour glasses which are very necessary for the watches. Wherewith, doubting not of your diligence and speedy return, We remain Your affectionate friends JOIHANNES PROVOOsT &. in the name of J. HO BRUYN, LIEUT. GOV. LEISLER. 199 Albany 28, March 1690o LIST of the Goods sent from York and received from Monsr Jan Hendricksen Brujn and Johannes Proofoost to be distributed among the Refugees of Schoonechtede, to wit2348k Dutch ells of Osenb: Linen 3 ps Serge 13 prs Stockings 72 ells pennestout and delivered to the Deacons of Schoonectede and the Deacom of Albany, to wit: Barent Wimp Jan Byvanck Johannes de Wandelaer Jacob Loockermans first, distributed to Sarge Barent Wimp.;aa.. Q., 0..00 0..O. a 63 elk Harmen, Vedder o e e Symen Schemenhoorn....,.,.. e, o 6; "Symen Groot......... z e...... < e. o 63 Arent Veddere....,,...,eo..o e Q, a e e O. e o 63 Amie Widow of Frans.. e.... o o.o e a 6| Willem Appel.... ea. e a o e o e oe e 0 6| Goosen Van Oort,..,,.,, a e o. e.. e e 6, Samuel Bradt e.......I..9. b - O o' o o o 0. 61 Andries Bradt e o.................... o o e e e o e e 6 Johannes Dyckman o e e o e e 6 Geertruy Groot,................Oa.... 61 3 ps Sarge distributed of,,,,.,,,......... 79 & List of the Pennestout to Pennestout Aces Cornelise.. e o. o,. o, o. o. e...... 7 ells Dirck Bradt...o.........e....a.............. 7 Isack de Teurcx...e...... oo.. s,,,X o 8 Nieces Volckers. o.... e. e.......,..,o. 3, Johannes Dyckman. e 0o e a 0, a a 0 e e o 3 Jan Eps.. e e..!,., e., o a e e e a a, a e.. e e e <, 0 7 LoQow ies Coopeele.. e c e. c. e 8?, sr a a a 0. f 6 e 0 a 0 Q 3f 200 ADMINISTRATION OF Pieter Van Olinda e..,. o,,,,,e e e... e,. 7 Gerret Jansen. e... e e. 0 a e.. e e a 0, 5 illem Van Eerde o........... o,0.. e 3 Arent Vedder.... e e o o. e... e 3 - } e4 3 Elias Swart. aaa a a a a a a a I a 71 el 0 a O e a b l ass a Elias Swarte e e e e ~ ee o o e o e c e ~ e e ~; o oe o o e e o'9 e'e e' 7 Jan Buys.... e.... e. e... o.... a o,, o a 4 Geertruy Groot..,,.....e..o e,,.,e O e o e 3 72 ells List of the Stockings Marius Vedder one pair of Stockings..... o... 1 Symen Groot one pair e. e...e e.... e e e e 1 Jan Buys.e.. * *. a e...... e e e. e e e e e e a e. 0 f o 1 W lllem Appel. e..G e e e 9 a 0 0 e 6 a e e a a 6 D b e a a 6 e * e 1 Dirck Heflmelh...............e......,., 1 Adam FrSchemaenhoo rn.... e e,., e, e 1 Tu sareni s C sensen.,,,,,e, a,,,, e,,,,,,,a, 1 Gerret Gysbersene....e e o o e e s e a o e. 1 Harmen Vedder......... e e. e o.... o e -... e e e 80 ells Jan Eps.. o,.,.,, e o e o e, o o o o 70 Catlyn Barensen............. e o 70 Dirck Bradt., 4e. 0. e o o e o o, a e. a., e 65 Barent WeGmpsen....... ^.................. 70 Dirck Hesselinger. e e o e a 0 58 W Thllem no. Of the St ocngs..,,.,...... e,, e 80 rs Goosen Van Oort. e O... e 8 e, e,.. e e 50 Gyspert Gerrets.............. 80 Nieces Volckertsenle. 9 99 e 9 9 o o a, o e 0 20 LIEUT V.GO. LEISLER. 201 Jacob van Laer...., e o o e e e. e e 20 Willem van Eerde. -...&-....... o..,. - o o. eo 76 Cornelis Viele........ o. o. e o t e... a 0.. e 40 Marius Haegedoorn...-, o *,. e.e.e e e. o.. 40 Jannetie Schermenhooren. oee.e.oeee...o e- 40 Cornelis Sechermenhooren., o o, o oo e o e.. a a 20 Citte Bradt........ e...... 0., e a o a. e e a 60 3Senderick Gardeniers....e. e e -.,, o.. e.e o o..e e 4 Cornelis Claesen.-. s....... *.o e.-o o..e.oe0e.e a 0 Geertruy Groot...., e.* eo. e... e, 7.,'.. e. *D F e 31 Susanne Tellers...,..o e.'.... o eo.-e e e e. 50 Aces Cornelise......e..... o e e............. o. e e 50 Dieuer W imp..... o.. e... e. e e'e. O. e.e e 55 Anne Harmensen.............. e.. e o. o o o 65 Tryntie Bosboom......e... e...e e e 20 Symon Volcker....e o o e a, e e. a oo ea e e e e......30 Samel Bradt.....,.... 0 o.. e o e o o... oe 50'Tryntie Schaets... e...e.......... o e e e 0 80 David Cristofelsen's children..... e.......e... 50 johannes Pootmans children.,.....,.. e e o.... a 70 Adam Frooman........................... e 70 Symon Schermenhooren...................... e 50 Purmerent.........,.....e... e... -....., 40 Symen Groot....... o.... o o........ e e.80 Fytie Pietersen Rosboom.,....,.. e....**, ee 20 Distributed to Schoonechtede....... e 1809 ells List of the Linen distributed in the Bush —(Woestine) Elias'Swart........,. o o eo o 3 6 e lls Lauries Coopesen e... e... e........... e e o a. 20 Isack Teuerx.............. e. e e. e e e e 40 JIs1:13uys a a e S ID 0 0 i a a 0 o a a a 0 s o ee a a o o4 0 G3 Jan Buys.................. 23 Tuenis Carstensen...e............e..e e e oo 35 -Binnonie Arertsen [Corlaerl..... o e.o. e.. o o 25 Dauit Marienissen... a o e e o a e * e o o e o e a s a 0 30I Elias Gyseling,..................... e... eee 30 Arent Vedder..... e a........ 0.. 0 e a, 30 202 ADMINISTRATION OF pitter Van Olinda., s e o e e e o o.. o e. 35 Jan Frooman....,. G oe.., e, e o o. 30 M anis Vedder.. * e.. e......................... 24 Tuenis Viele.. e e e e e e e e 20 Tryntie Verwy...e o.9 o.e o..o... 15 Claes Graefd,,...............-....Q....,.... 35 Jan Hilt....,,,... e..,,e. e 25 Cornelis Groot.........e e.e e e. o e 20 Jan Luycessen.... 0............... 18 Johannes Dyckman.,...... oee,,,.. 30 Lysbet Cornelissen o e o o....,....... 15 540 From the other side,,e.,.....,,,,. e 1809 2349 By me JOHANNES iDE WANDELAER Deacon of Albany. At a meeting of Mayor Aldermen & Common Council holden in AlbY this 28 March 1690 Present, Pr Schuyler Albt Ryckman, Dirck Wesselse Reynier Barentz, L. V. Schayck, Evert Bancker, J J Bleeker, Eghbert Teunissen Claes Ripsen Gert Reyersen. Having taken into Consideration how we shall obtain for King William's acet the ammunition and provision which we are obliged to deliver from this County pursuant to our preceding Resolution adopted with the Honile Commissioners from N. York on the 22nd March last, and prepare forthwith for the Equipment of an Army both of Christians and Indians against our Enemies of Canada, and Resolve as followethPieter Schuyler & Dirck Wesselse are appointed to get ready 6000 lbs hard bread for the King's acet Johannis Wendel 100 prepared (leer skins Levinus Van Schayk 150 skepels peas LIEUT. GOV. LEISLER. 203 Jan Janse Bleeker & Reynier Barentse 60 guns & 100 axes Claes Ripsen & Albert Ryckman the materials & expence for repairing the following-30 B. Canoes. Evert Bancker Eghbert Teunissen & Gert Ryersen for 30 Bark Canoes Joh: Cuyler the 400 lbs Powder Gabriel Thomson the 100 gall Rom. By the Commissioners, the MIayor Aldermen & Justices &ca of the City and County of Albany. You are hereby ordered in his Majties name to take hence forthwith under your command 9 men and march with Jannetie or Laurence the Mohawk Indian and his party of savages with some Schagtkooks Indians upward about seven miles beyond the Cromnpoint unto the Otter-creek, or some other better place or Rendesvous which you may consider more suitable safer and more advantageous-where you shall remain and keep good watch day and night, and send out especially good scouts and spies every day till Sundown, and you shall correspond daily with Capt Jacobus de Warm & his soldiers who are sent to the aforesaid Crown point, and mutually communicate to each other all remarkable occurences, and should you perceive or meet any French or Canada Indians, you must endeavor to despoil, plunder and do them all injury as Enemies conformably to the Custom of War: And the aforesaid 9 men are hereby strictly charged to obey their officers in all things. And the Officers shall in all things advise vwith the aforesaid Indian, Jannetie, as to what concerns his Majisty's Interest and this undertaken Expedition. You shall, likewise, renain at the aforesd Otter-Creek, or at the place you may think fit as above, for the time of one month except you really and truly perceive the approach of a powerful enemy's force, which you ca~nnot resist, then you must Cito cito send a Messenger -hther; and the remainder of Your Company must return immediately here to the City. But if there be any Volunteers, either Christiman. or Indians who will proceed from the aforesaid Otterkill to Canada as Spies, 204 ADMINISTRATION OF to reconnoitre or to take prisoners they have permission so to do, provided the post at the aforesaid Otterkill or your sojourn, shall always remain fully established. Meanwhile you shall manufacture some Bark Canoes which you can use according to Circumstances. Thus Given under our hands In alby. this 31st March, and in the 2nd year of his MajtYs Reign Annoq: Dom. 169'0 J BRUYN To Capt Abraham JOH: PROVOOST Schuyler 1pr SCHUYLER DIRCK WESSELSE JOH: WENDEL N: B. the aforesaid 9 men are Arent Schuyler David Kettelhuyn Tho Sjeer Casper Teller Daniel Brad Willem the Indian But Teunissen lHendk Jansen van Saragtoge By the Commissioners, the Mayor, Aldermen & Justices of the Peace of the City & County of Albany. WHEREAS you were ordered in your preceding Commission dated 26th March last to remain at Crown point till further orders as more fully appears in said Commission, and we are now asked if any other better sojourn or place of Rendezvous can be foundThese are therefore, if you can find out any fitter place than the aforesaid Crown Point which you Know will be more secure, to empower you to do so with advice and consultation of Dirk Albertsen Brad and the Schagtkook Indians, on condition that you Send out Spies dayly towards the said Crown Point: You shall also daily correspond with Capt Abraham Schuyler and his people and mutually communicate all notable occurrences. And further you shall follow and obey your previous commission in all things. Thus given under our hands In Albany this 1st April in the 2nd Year of his Majestys Reign Ao. Domi. 1690. Was Signed, J. BBUYN To Capt Jacobus JOH. PROVOOST de Warm PETER SCIUYLER DIRCK WESSELSE JOH: WENDELL LIEUT.. GOV. LEISLER. 05 [Translation.] THE COMMISSARIES AT' ALBANY TO LEISLER. Alby. the 2d Aprill 1690. MYNHEER-Mynheer, We again yesterday sent up a Scouting Party of 9 @ 10 Christians with about as many Indians who will Cooperate as far as possible with the party previously sent up, against our enemies the French and their Indians from Canada, for his Majestys Interest. The Sheriff and County Clerk forwarded. also yesterday the Minutes and other Books & papers &c. belonging to this City and the County of Albany, but found the Registers only to 1st December 1685. And Robbert Livingstons wife said, she has no Rnowledge of the others. Item, were in like manner, Since, all the Excise Books and acs concerning his Majestys Revenue because there were reasons numerous enough to secure said Livingston, so that he may give explanations of all the accounts. N: B. We also Send your Honour enclosed, six sworn affidavits against the aforesaid Livingston in behalf of his Majesty. Item, herewith goes, besides, a packet of papers which we found in an old box in which were also discovered Some articles of value (Klynodie goederen) which heretofore belonged to the Canadian Jesuit Valiand. These we have inventoried here for his Majestys use until further Order. We also pursuant to your Honor's order allowed the freeholders of this City & County to Choose & elect 2 proper persons to consult & conclude at New York concerning his Majesty's interest in this conjuncture, and the majority of votes have accordingly fallen on Capt Jan Janse Bleeker & Reyer Schermerhoren, and inasmuch as there is no sloop at present here in which the aforesaid can depart, they shall be forwarded by the first opportunity were it only a canoe. At present no more from Your Honour's faithful Friends Endorsed Alb. 2 aptl 1690 Copy van Een brief Aen d'Luyt. govr Jacob Leysler in bet fort Wm tot N. Yorke. 206 ADMINISTRATION OF DEPOSITIONS AGAINST LIVINGSTON. Present J Bruyn Jan J Bleeker Johannes Provt Joh Cuyler Akes Cornellissen Van Slyck of the County of Albany, aged about 50 years being sworn on the Holy Evangelists before Mr Jan Jansen Bleeker Justus of the Peace declares that about the middle of Feb A~ 168A he was with his wife Grietje and George Aersen at Robbert Livingston's house and that he deponent stated and said to said Livingston Thou hast read the King's Declaration in English but I cannot understand it-therefore repeat it to me in Dutch. Whereupon the aforesaid Livingston answered & saidThat the King stated that many of his Subjects had run away from England to Holland, of whom the Prince is the Chief Rebel-and said further, Let him come to England; he shall find there as good Soldiers to oppose him as he shall bring with him. And further he saith not. Thus in Albany this 1st April and in the 2nd Year of his Majesty's Reign A~ Dom: 1690. Sworn before Me. Grietje wife of Akes Cornelissen, aged about 45 years being sworn before Jan Janse Bleeker Justus of the Peace declares that she was with her husband Akes & Joris Aersen about the Middle of February 168 at Robt Livingston's house, and that she Deponent heard said Livingston state that the King said that the Prince is the head of the rebels. And further she knoweth not well whether she heard from Livingston or her husband or from Jor: Aersen-she, however, heard one of the three say that Livingston had also said that divers English subjects had run away from England to Holland; also, let him but come to England he shall there find as good soldiers as he shall bring with him, and she further saith not. Thus, in Alby 1 April 1690 Present. J Bruyn Joh Provoost Joh Wendel Reyer Schermerhooren of the county of Albany, aged about 38 years being sworn before Mr Johannis Wendel, Justus of the Peace, declares that he was last harvest at Sweer Teunissens van Velsen's LIEUTo GOV. LEISLER. 207 house at Schianhegtade, where Joris Aersen, Capt Sander Glen, Joh Glen & Myndert Wemp were present, and that then Joris Aersen was asked if he had heard Robt Livingston Say that the Prince of Orange (who is our King of England &ca) was the head of the Rebels who invaded England with the Prince Ao 1688. Whereupon. the aforesaid Jor: Aersen answered, No-I did not hear Livingston say so; but he said this-that in the declaration which the Late King James issued against the Hollanders he had read that the Prince was declared to be the Head of the RebelsWhereupon Meyndert Wemp again said in the presence of the aforesaid Company-Remember this well; for Joris Aersen shall yet make these words good; and said, further, that he will note down in his book the words which Joris aforesaid has there statedo And further he saith not. Thus in Alby this 1st April 1690 Simon Schermerhoren of the County of Albany aged about 32 years being sworn in presence of Mr Johannis Wendel Justus of the Peace declares, that he was last harvest in his house at Schanegtady where Joris Aersen came and related to him Deponent how Robt Livingston had told him that the Declaration issued against the Hollanders by the late King James denounced the Prince of Orange as the head of the Rebels; and that he Joris had shewn this declaration to Dom: Tassemaker at the time minister of Schanhegtady, to learn if there were any such thing in it, but Dom: Tassemaker could see nothing of the sort there; and as the Deponent afterwards heard that Joris tried to alter the aforesaid Livingston's words, he asked Joris if he now denied that he had spoken to Deponent against Livingston? Whereupon Joris answered, I deny nothing of what I told you herein, for I stated the same to the Domine and the whole consistory of Schanegtady, and I shall not deny it even should I die the death, for Akes Corns & his wife were likewise present when Livingston spoke so of our Prince, notwithstanding that Akes now says he is sick, and his wife says she is only a woman. But, said Joris, when they are put on their oaths they will speak the truth, and should they not, yet will I do it. Item, Joris said, it vexes me much that such slanders should be stated of our Prince as he is 208 ADMINISTRATION OF my countryman, for I too am an Amsterdam boy. And further saith not Thus in Albany, 1st April 1690. Myndert Harmensen of the County of Albany, aged about 47 years, being sworn before; Johannis Wendel Justus of the Peace, declares that last harvest in his house, he asked Joris Aersen if it were true that he heard Robt Livingston say that our Prince of Orange was the head of the Rebels? Whereupon the aforesaid Joris Aersen answered No; I did not hear Livingston say that; but he said this, that the Late King James hath in his Declaration against the Hollanders pronounced the Prince to be the head of the Rebels, and further saith not. Thus in Alby this Ist April 1690. Present J Bruyn, Joh Provoost, J J Bleeker Capt. Sander Glen Justus of the Peace of the County of Alby, aged about 43 years being sworn before Mr Jan Jansen Bleeker, Justus of the Peace, declares that he heard Joris Aersen say several times last summer or last harvest, that it was too much reported of him Joris that he should have spoken against Robt Livingston; and that Joris also said what I heard Livingston say of the Prince, Akes Cornelissen and his wife were there then present when he read the declaration; they well know what he said' and further saith not. Thus in Albany this ist April 1690. Present:J Bruyn, Richd Pretty, Johannis Provoost, Joh Cuyler. INVENTORY of some goods heretofore the Property of the Father, or Jesuit Valiand of Canada. They are, on information of Jan Gow and Willem Hollie, transferred to us for his Majesty's interest, still remaining at present, & until further order, at the house of Jan Gow aforesaid. Thus in Alby this 1st April 1690. Found in one old chest as follows:22 Bunches of black Beads, also some loose do 1 The following was added here in the original but afterwards expunged:" And deponent further saith that he repeatedly heard several persons, in the course of conversation say that the Prince is the head of the Rebels; But knows not from whom he heard it." LIEUTo GOVo LISLERIS 2 2 doz: little looking glasses for Indians 12 little Patrenoster Chains (Rosaries.) 1 priest's white surplice; also 2 @ 3 little shirts &6e 3 small bunches of Copper finger-rings. 4 doz tinder boxes with steel & flintso 5 small papers of Needles 2 papers of Awls 1 Compass 2 Belts 1 Red matting table cover (strootwisch tafelleed) 1 do Chimney little Valance (shoorsteen valldje) 3 parcels of garden Stuff 1 old ditto 2 little paintings 5 burning glasses 1 handsome pair of womens hose 27 little books 11 paper pictures 3 blank books 1 pr. shoes & 1 pr. slippers & nothing else of Importance. Item found in a Small Basket:; I little bell, weight about 16 lbso 7 old axes 4 old adzes 2 planeing chisels 2 old chisels 1 little copper shears 1 small hatchet 1 small square in a joiners bench I small anvil with a horn 1 hand vice 1 large Auger 1 set of bits 2 files 3 old dishes 3 prs of ice spurs, (creepers) 1 crooked nippers 1 old plane 3 Rings for 2 s mall hammers 1 iron pick-book I[tem some other pieces of old Iron of little or no importance; of no value. Jobannis Sand. GIen of the county of Albalny about 42 years old being Sworn before Jan Wendel, Justus of the Peace, declares that Robt Ltivngston came last harvest to Schannegtade and enquired expressly for Joris Aersen, and said he would give a q'art or two to whomsoever would bring Joris, as he was in the B-lshl for he must speak with him. Whereupon Deponent asked what had Joris done. To which Livingston Answered, You know vwell what I heard, since I heard Joris hath thus spoken against you-Deponent replied, I know it not. And when he Deponent afterwards saw Joris Aersen, he asked him, how the matter stood about which Livingston had come to him? to which Joris answered-If the people to whom I spoke about Livingston have not changed my words, Livingston is in no danger, neither have I. Otherwise I shall have difficulty; And further saith not. Thus in Albany this 2d April 1690. Newyork Aprill 2d 1690. To the HIonbie the Governor & Gent in authority for his Maties Collony of Connecticutt. HorBLUE SxIRS —Whereas Captn Jonathan Bull hath by order from, the authority of your collony: withdrawen the forces sent for Albany contrary to the order of those commissionated for that post and the expectation both of the Christians & Indian Confederates, to the great discouragement of the remaining forces for his Maties service in that frontier, In some parts to supply that defect, It is desired that Mr. Samuel Edsall & Mr. pembroke the bearer hereof, may have license & free leave to beat the drum for raising such volunteers as shall list themselves in his Maties service for Albany aforesd, S& transport the same into this place, or directly thither without any lett hindrance or molestatione XEUTr. GOVo EISLEA.R 2 11 whatsoever5 M/orover desireing your aide & assistance therein, Which requiest of ours we hope not to fail], of, Subscribing your loving friends & neighbours &c. CIRCULAR T TIHE GOVERNORS OF THIE SE'VEIRAL PROVINCES. New york Aprill 2d 1690. HONeBLE $-i-The unexpected surprisall of a small village called skenectady by the french & their Indian Confederates hath so allarmed the fronteer post of Albany & those of new England that it is a work necessary to be well consulted how to secure that place, the wellfare whereof concernes all the neighbouring Collonies; And therefore having certane notice of 2500 french posted in Montroyall which advanceth from Quebeck towards Albany near 250 miles & an additional strenth of the Indianes being expected, miay sooner attack our aforesd post then happily we are aware of, wee having done what our circumstances & endeavours could well contribute, have likewise communicated the same to the Governor of Boston, & the gentlemen of Connecticutt are likewise advertised thereof, insomuch that wee propose for a generall assistance that such persones as to you shall seem meet may be commissionated to treat with them of new England, Virginia, pensilvania & Jerseys relating this important affaire here at New york being adjudged the medium between the parties concerned upon the 24th day of Aprill next after this date, that soe we may conclude what may conduce most to the Kings intrest, wIellfare of the provinces & the prevention if not destructione of the enymies &co.. —=. _,- - ^g^^- _.....^ _ *THE SPEAKER 0F TlE MARYLAND ASSEMBLY TO LEISLEP. By ye Assembly Aprill ye 3d 1690. oNBLE S —Your letters of ye 4th.March last to Capt John Coode, with copy of one from Barbadoes 27 Janury p'ceeding to your H-on: inclosed, hath been communicated to this House, ye Representative body of this Province now assembled & met 212 ADMINISTSRATION OF together for their Maties service who, after or hearty thanks for.your kind expressions and demonstracons of friendship to this Province therein sett forth, thinke fitt to signifie or due sense and trouble for that sad and miserable accident befell you from ye French & their Indians in your parts and the horrid & bloody Massacre of your people ye w-h we heartily condole & lament, have taken ye same into or serious Consideracon and unanimously voted speedy aid and assistance agst that comon & tyrannicall Enemy & disturber of our peace to be sent you, but for ye way & manner of soe doing & ye measures therein to be taken for ye more effectuall doing thereof (considering ye present juncture & ye infancy & weakness of or Country) we have recommended ye same to ye Managemt of a select comittee for that purpose appointed, upon whose report to this house wch will be wth all expedition, wee shall be able to give you a more ample & satisfactory acet for their Maties service & the seasonable reliefe & further security of all their subjects in these parts of America, wherein & for all yor friendly & kind respects shewne to this province; wee shall, what in us lies, endeavour to be in no wise wanting of or duty & making such suitable returns & acknowledgmts as we are capable of; in ye mean time for matters of news & a more p'ticular acct of affaires, we recomend y'r Honor) to Capt John Coode, who will supply prsent defects of Sr yor IHonors Most Humble Serv"t Signed pr order & in ye name of ye House KENELM CHIESELnDYN Speaker To ye Honble Jacob Leisler Esqr Comander in Chief of his Maties forces in New Yorke, These for their Mati~s Service A LITr of ye Souldjers for ye Expedition of Albany @ 25s. pr Mont and their provision-A- 1689 the 13 March in Fort william, & are departed on 2d april with Capt Jacob Milborne +- Gerrit woutersen Serjeant two pisses of 8, - - Thomis Chambers 9s in mony & 12s 6do in duffels LIEUT. GOV. LEISLEIo 21 - +- Henry pyper 12s 6d in duffels 9s in mony ~ Symon Williams of Ranak I pc of 8 & 9s in mony & 10s in duffels -+ Jean Marlett of Staten Island I lock & 4s in mony & 10s in duffels - Jacob Paers of Rye 9s in mony + Richard Marten 9s in mony & 10.s in duffels ~- Richard Walters of Rye 9s in mony & 10s in duffels +- Mattheuw Barends of Westchester 1 pc of S. & 9s in mony & 12s 6d. in duffels 4 Francis Mauriss of Staten Island 9s in mony - Daniellaniellnagaiell 9s. in mony I pr of shoes + Jonas Stevense of Rye I pr shoes & 1 pc of 8 & 9s in mony & 12s 6d in duffels - Hendrick Hendricksen Staten Island 9s. in mony + Robert Raley 9s in mony -- - William Nobell 9s in mony +- - Gerrit arentse of iN. York 9s in mony & 10 in duffels - Jean faefre Staten Island 1 lock & 4s in mony & 10s. in duffels +- P Pieter Berry 9s. in mony 1 pr shoes. -+ George Sharp 9s. in mony 1 pr shoes -+ John floid of N York 9s in mony & 10s in duffels - Philiph Coome 1 pc. of 8. & 9s in mony & 12s 6d in duffels - John Mannin 9s in mony t- John Poen 9s. in mony & I pr. shoes +- Frans Thomasse of No York 9s in mony + John Clark 12s 6d. in duffels 9s in mony - + Charles Twist of Suffolk Bounds 1- ps of 8 & 9s in mony & 1 sword & 1 pc of 8. + William Ingell 9s in mony & 12s. 6do in duffels +- ~ Johannes Langestraet of N York 11 pc of 80 - - Johannes fyne of N York 1- pc. of 8, 4+ John Barsett of Rye 1 pr of shoes & 9s. in mony -- + Charles Olivatt 12s 6d. in duffels 9s. in mony + William Cornes 12s 6d. in duffels 9s in mony 214 ADMINISTRATION OF - - John Rob from Staten Island 9s in mony - - William haukisson 1 pr shoes & 9s in mony +- Jean doulier from S taten Island 9s in mony & 12s 6d. in duffels & 2 pc. of 8 for dyet & bringing over of people. - Thomas hunt Surgeon 9s. in mony & 1 pc of 8 for dyet. — t- PRobert Folther 9s in mony - gerrit Tappen 9s in mony & 9s for to bring a man - - Thomas Knight 9s in mony - Ebenesar Lyon 9s. in mony. - Thomas Cromwell 9s in mony - + William Locker 9s. in mony - - Patrick Magrigerie 9s in mony - -- Thomas Johnsen 9s in mony - -- Nathaniel Pietersen 9s in mony - - John Boyd 9s in mony - -+ Silley 3s. in mony - - Robert Cam 9s in mony Jan Cornelise Johannes Van Tilburgh hendrick martensen -+ Edward ford from the Man of War 9s in tnony - +- Jan Chalender 9s in mony Expedicon to Albany 26 May. John Care 9s. in money 3s for board 4 loaves & 28 ditto John Robinson 1 pr shoes Richard Hill 1 pr ditto lbs pork [From another List.] April 4. 1690,. Peter Henkesson from Staten Island Jost Pow; Andrew Smith 9s in mcny 3s for dyett 2- yd duffels Willem Weavor 9s in mony 18s " " 2- John Prescott 9s in mony 21 "4 Moses Manase Hard 9s in mony 2 " Charles Masshell Henry low 9s in mony 29 1 John Damelse 9s in mony 2. Peter Parsone 9s in mony 2- " C' iLIE T. GOV,.LSKSLB' 15 Daniel Meliton 9s in rmon j y Andrew Miller 9s in raony Johannes Liekeris Thomas Stevensen A list of the Souldjers yt went wth Captn gabriell Thompsonl [Supposed to be from.:Pieataway, lMaaryiandL] Capt. Gabriel Tomson Leftenant Rodgar Barton Ensine Ebennazar Wakeman Sargant Joseph Rumsey Sargant Thormis Stu;rgis, James Camioll Thomas Hunt John Owen Sammuel nail Nathaniel furbush Mathu Randall Sargant Jonathan:orton Abraim broun John orgeson Josoph boils Richard feioo Sammuel Couch Williama Danfrord. danniel Gou John Knap John Ogdin, Richard Cozens John Cable Thomas Poor Josiah Hunt Philip galpi n Samuel Shered Philip Prise Philip trauis Joseph Cable Loeling philips iJo. Greenr Thomas Brodgat Isaac Rumsey Robord Graims Thomnas Mathus Jorge Scot A part of a List of the People y';ent up to Albany. Jeronimes'van Bommell Sarnuel Yardin Hend'k Aernouts Harmen Jansen Coenradus Vander Beck Denys A denoan Jan Keteltas!Jacobus Colve Isaac Jansen Van Tilmburgh.JEpraim Carpenter -Abram Matysse Cormelis Loosie Boswyc Jacobus d.e w'a ix GOill.am 43erlet, Bos-wg.rclc ~16 ADMINISTRATION OF Martin Beeckman Charles fonteyn Boswyck Arien Santwoort Caste Laerse Junior Jacobus vander Spiegel Jams Woodert Isaac Franck John Spaniard Daniel Robotham Johannes Hartman Abram Uyteersael Jurian Andiesse Alexander Wilson Pieter Pangborne Gerret Burger Tomas foot Johannes Provoost Junior Mathys Loftus Isaac Bos James Weith John Thomas Lowrens hoist Junior Matthys de Hart from Kings County Peter Brouwer Theunis Dircksen Jacobus Monseu Casaue Jan Tysse Rem Jansen Jan Wertze A 1690 19 8ber in Fort William. A LIST of ye Souldjers yt are a going up to Albany Robert Crafft 8 shill. Toby Indian 2s 3d. David Mandre Shotlander 5s, Thomas Barber 8 shill. or 8 s. William Trip 2s. Alexander farle 2s. 3d. Nicholaes Porter 2s. Brian Rome 2s. John Wolleston 5s. John Jackmonsse 2s. 3d. Roburte Pate 2s. 3d prest George Casselltowne 2. 3do Isaak fran 2s. 3d. Samuel Kickham in plas of John Baker Discharged Insident Charges to send a warrant to ye Sheriffe of queens County......e.. o e 0.e e...,. 4.. to sergant Jacob to Cherche Jaques haus for........ 13. 6 Chevalier Dau 1 Morgingoun I pc. of 8 to Wm Churcher........... o... 6 1p pc. of 8 to the Boer who brought the prisoners.,, 6 to Hendrick ten eyck...................... e 9 The Heer Meyer credit in money ~6.3.9 LIEUTo GOVo LETSLERo 217 COPIES OF DIVERS OTHER ORDERS ISSUED BY LEISLERS COMMISSIONERS AT ALBANY APRIL & MAY 1690( By the Commissionrs for Albany &eca, WHEREAs diverse persons within this City and County have presumed to retayle Rum unto the Souldiers belonging to ffort Orange, and the respective Captns commanding such who came from New yorke and are since listed under them, which hath proved very pernicious to the Kings Interests, the safety of this City and County, and the said Souldiers welfare These are in his Maties name strictly to prohibite and forbid any person whatsoeuer to draw for, sell, or retayle any parcell or quantity of rum upon any pretence whatsoeuer under the penalty of fforfeiting Ten pounds Currant money of this Province for doeing such trespasser and the said Rum to be forfeited, One third to be for the Enformer and the rest to be improved for the support of this present Warr: Dated in Albany Aprill the 12th and in ye 2d yeare of his Maties Reigne Annoq Dom. 1690. By the Comrrs for Albany &ca WHEREAS his Maties Revenue hath been much empaired by neglect of Due collecting the Grand Accizes &ca These are in his Maties name to command you Mr Richard Pretty forthwith to Gauge all Vessells containing Rum or strong liquors wheresoeuer you shall finde the same within this City and County, and take Accot thereof according to an Act of Assembly and your Power substituting you Collector &ca for the same All persons being hereby required to conform thereunto as they will answer the contrary at their Perrills Given under or hands ye date aforesaid: To Mr Richard Pretty Sherriffe of the City and County of Albany 218 ADMiITSTAT.ION OF A LisT: of Persons Departed from Albany without ary leaue or giving notice Laurens (alais) Koehaerder Jan Jacobse Jan Laurens Evert Wendel Junr Cornelis Laurens Symon Schermerhoorne N B Cornelis Viele Surgeon to send up for o' want of him is great MYNMDERT HA.MENSE ABRAHAM K IP By the Con01r for Albany &ca WI-ER:nEAS th.ere was an Order issued forth to Mr Robert Livingston, Receiver of the Kings Revenue for ye City and County of Albany to deliner unto to Mr Richard Pretty all such bookes and Accots as were in his Custody (or that haue beene under his Charge or in his Possession) relating any part of the Kings Revenue as aforesaid &vCa and the said Livingston hath absconded. without giving any order or direction concerning the same by wVh his Maties Interest is much abated. These are to giue notice unto the sd Livingston or in whose possession the sd bookes or Accots are or do know where they are placed, that they Forthwith do give notice thereof unto Mr Richard Pretty &ca and in case any do conceale, or connive at covering the same, that then such shall be proceeded against as those who abett & contrive. to defraud his Matics dues and dutyes-Moreover it is hereby ordered & declared that if the sd Livingston doth not appeare in person in Albany City aforesd or make returne of the same here, at or before the 26th day of this Instant Aprili according to the true intent and meaning of this precept: That then the Said Livingston shall be proceeded against as one that hath defrauded his Matie of his dues and rights and broken the trust reposed in him; according to the severity of Law in suchb Cases~ Dated in Albany this 14th day of Aprill t.690, and in ye Second Yeare of his Matics Reigne:: Albany Aprill the 22th 1690 ORDIEREtD that the Mill belonging to the Patroon Renselaer be immediately fortified against any attack or invasion that may be made by the Enemy, for w- v0 plurpoe it is recomntIended to the, care & direction of Ma1 Levinus Va;n,ch.ayck & Pete r Se huy'ler LYEt', GOV\ LEErSLER. 219 Esq1, for-' his Assista.nce, and what by them shall be appointed for accormplishing the same, all persons are hereby strictly required to be aiding therein with their Persons or'what else unto them is belonging for that Service, as they will answver the contrary at their uitmost Peril. Gi.en runder o' hands he day & yeare above written, Aibany Aprill. the 22d. 1690 WHEREAnS there'is a necessity of breast woi-s to be fortlhwt miade within the Stockadoes roiund this City, aid that it may be more effectually accomplished Ordered that Cap' Johannes Wendel, and Capt Peter Van Wogolomr doe take upon. them, the care & direction thereof, and. what by them shall be found requisite for compleating the same all persons are hereby required to assist therein wth their Persons and whatsoeuer is unto them belonging fit for that service as they will answer the contrary at their utmost Peri.ll Given under or Lands the day and yeare abov-ewritten: — By the Corni"s for Albany &c@,WHEiR-EAS there was an Order issued forth bearing date the 14th3 this Instant Aprill for Mr PRobt Liv ingston to render up the Bookes and Accots relating the Kings Revenue, and a certaine day set and time limited for the samle or his appearance in this City the wcah hath not beene observed to the great prejudice of his Matie Intrest &C0 These are in his Matie8 l name to vwiill and require you forthwith to Attach all such houses, lands, Goods, and Chattells as doe belong or appertaine unto the sd Livingston for and in behaife of Or Sovereigne Lord King William & to his Maties use & behoofe -whereof you are to make returne according to this Precept Given under or hands in Albany April 30th and in the second yeare of his Maties Reigne Annoq Dom 1690, To Mr Richard Pretty Sherriffle for the City and. County of Albany By the ComLS for Albany a&-: WH.EREEAS diverse persons hane pretended r'igt and title to a parcell of meadow ground pasture belonging unto their most excellent Matlie King Willianm and tQueene Mary Supreamn Lord 220 ADMINISTRATION OF and Lady of this Province of N: Yorke lying neare this City and have sold ye same for the use of the Poore to emprove by letting it or entertaining sundry beasts to grasse therin These are in his Maties King Williams name strictly to forbid all persons whatsoever to trespasse thereon by entertaining or driving into the sd Pasture any horses beasts, or other Cattell whatsoeuer without Speciall Licence from us Commissionated by his MatieS Lt Governr of the Province of New Yorke aforesd as they will answer the contrary at their utmost Perill Given under or hands this 30th day of Aprill in ye second yeare of his Maties reigne Annoq dom. 1690 And whosoeuer shall attempt to pull of deface, or any wayes Scandalize any Order affixed by this Authority shall be punished severely according to the nature of the Offence wth its circumstances To all whom this doth or may Concerne By the Comrs for Albany &ca COMPLAINT being made unto us by the Gentn appointed for quartering of his Maties Soldiers in this city & County that Mr William Teller hath obstinately refused to entertaine a certaine Souldier by their Order sent for that purpose and hath shut his door against the officer Insomuch that they desire or Authority to compell him the sd Teller to performe his duty These are in his Maties name to will and require you forthwith to make a forcible entry into the sd Tellers house, and quarter the said souldr accordingly, and take with you such psons for Assistance as are under yor Command, in so doing this shall be yor Sufficient Warrant Giuen under or hands in Albany this first day of May in the second yeare of his Maties Reigne Annoq Dom. 1690 To Lieut Twist Commanding a Compe of his Maties Souldrs in this City: By the Commissrs for Albany &ca WHEREAS strict Orders haue beene made prohibiting all psons within this City and County to sell Rum unto the Indians, and LIEUT, GOV, LEISLERo 221 the same haue not had due effect, neither beene regarded as they ought: These are in his Maties name strictly to forbid all psons whatsoeuer that they sell noe Rum or strong drinke, directly or indirectly unto any sort of Indian, or Indians of what Nacon soever, and that none do presume to deliuer, or give any Rum or other strong Beere or drinke unto any of them upon what pretence soever (unlesse such who haue an especiall Licence from us so to doe) under the penalty of forfeiting Twenty pounds Currant money of this Province the One halfe to the Enformer the rest to be employed in ye Publiq service of the immediate War and in case the persons so offending shall not be capable of paying the said ffine, then to receiue open Corporall punishmt by whipping at discretion and forthwith to be expelled this County: Given under Or hands this 2d day of May in the second Yeare of his Maties Reigne Annoq Dom 1690: And that no pson shall go without ye Stockadoes of this City to discourse or deale with any Indian whatsoever on penalty of forfeiting ten pounds like Currt money and in Case they are not capable to pay the same, to be punished as abovesd: By the Comrs for Albany &cThese are in his Maties name to require you Mr Richd Pretty Sheriffe of this City & County to distraine Twelve Kettles now in the possession of Cap" Johan Bleecker, weighing the same & promise paymt (for the Kings service) in Or behalfe Giuen under or hands May the 11th 1690 By the Comrs for Albany &ca THESE are in his Maties name to will & require you forthwith to make diligent search within this City for all Kettles that may be fit for the Expedition against the French, and wherever you finde the same (as Merchandize) to secure for his Maties Service that they may not be transported from this Towne but forth comrming when occasion requires, as you shall haue farther order from us & for sodoing this shall be yor sufficient Warrant given under or liands in A.lba May 1.2th & in ye 2d year of his Maties Reigne Annoq dom 1.690:-) A22O,2 A;DMINISTRA TION OF By the Comnmissrs for Alb& &ca These are in his Matite name to order, & appoint you Mr Dirck Wessells forthwith to provide Indian Shoes, Canoes and Axes which are immediately requisite for his Maties Service against ye ffiench and their adhering Enemyes commanding all persons proper to assist you herein & for sodoing this shall be your sufficient Warrt given under or hands in Alba, May 12th & in ye 2d yeare of his Mati'es Reigne Annoq dom 1.690By the Comres for Albany &ca Tlhese are in his Maties name to prohibite and forbid all manner of persons within this City and County that they dare not presume to receuie into any howse, or Cellar, any Wine, rum or Strong Liquors except it be first gaged by the Gager Adrian Appel then to be committed to the Porters, for howsing the same, and that no Beere be carried from any Bre-wer, but by the sd Porters appointed by uas and that they giue a true account of the same to the Collectr of his Maties Revenue for this City and County, euery weeke, and that no strong beere be brought to any Retailer or Tapper wth out a ticket from ye sd Collector upon ye penalty ffiue Pounds for euery offence committed by each Porter And that no Carman shall ride Wine, Rum, or other Strong Liq'r from any Vessell house, or Cellar without handling by sd Porters All vessels being hereby ordered to land & load at ye Landing place behinde ye Cort house to be rid through the Gate by sd Cort house & not otherwayes upon penalty of paying ffive Pounds for every Carman that shall soe offend Given under our hands May the 12th 1690 & in ye Second. Yeare of his Maties Regne. By the Comrnls for Albany &ca'WHHEREAS diverse persons dayly wast powder wch is of such necessary use for defence of this City and County of Albany, and. although many haue beene advertised thereof yet psist in the same: These are in his Maties name to prohibite all persons W!-atsoeuer,wth in the sd City and County to burne any powder mulesse to kill provision, or for his Maties service & benefit of the places a~foresaid, upon paine of paying for every shot or discharging LIEUT. G OV. LEISLER, 223 of Gun or Pistoll (contrary to ye intent of this order) six shillings Currant money of this province of New Yorke, or Corporall punishnmt at discretion: Dated in Albany May 12th 1690: By the Corn for Alba &ca These are in his Maties name to Order & appoint you Mr1s Claas Ripse, en Jacob Meesen diligently to visit, and narrowly inspect the Stockadoes & platformes round & about this City, (with such officers of the Militia as ye Towne Major shall appoint) and that what shall be found requisite & necessary to be done for ye better fortifying thereof, you doe by yorselves or such as you shall employ forthwith performe & accomplish: Giuen under or hands May 12th & in the second yeare of his Maties Reigne Annoq Dom 1690: By the Comrrs for Albany &ca. These are in his Maties name to order you to examine all houses within this City & County and take an exact Accot of what powder is in eury psons possession therein, of wch all the Inhabitants thereof are hereby ordered & Commanded that they do giue you a trueaccot of what quantity they haue, & if they or any of them shall conceale any part thereof to be proceeded against as contemnors of his Maties Authority, and disaffected to the peace and Security of this City and County aforesd. Dated in Albany the 12th day of May and in the second yeare of his Maties Reigne Annoq Dom. 1690: By the Comrn for Albany &c. FORASrMUCH as it is of high Concern to preserue his Maties City and County of Albany from the rage and mischief of the French & their adherents, who to or sad experience haue made divers attempts upon the skirts of the same: Wee doe therefore Order, and hereby it is ordered that the Posts of Schanechtede, Connestigioene9 and the halfe Moone be forthwith supplyed with proper numbers of men to defend the same, and that none do presume to post any other forces saving at the three places aforesd at their 224 ADMINISTRATION OF utmost perill Given under or hands this 12th day of May in the second yeare of his Maties Raigne Annoq Dom 1690: To all whome this doth or may concerne By the Comrs for Albany &ca WHEREAS it is judged necessary for to defend Schanechtede and to that purpose it is likewise found requisite that a Fort shall be erected to defend ye Inhabitants and oppugne the Enemy if should attack the same. These are in his Maties name to require you Capn Sander Glen & all Officers & Inhabitants belonging to ye said Schanechtede and adjacent Parts, with the Souldiers there in Garrison, to build a substantiall. Fort of due magnitude and strength upon that part, or parcell of ground (called by the name of Cleyn Isaacs) and that all are aiding and assisting therein according to their abilitye to dispatch and compleat the same, as they will answer the contrary at their utmost perills Given under or hands this 13th day of May in the second yeare of his Maties Reigne Annoq Dom 1690: Albany the 30th May 1690,. You are from hence to set forth immediately to Sarrachtoge and so forward to the Carrying Place where you are to make your diligent inspection if any Tracks of people are made, or other notices can be taken either of the French or their Indians, and'between the sd draegh Plaets & Sarraghtoge you are to keep constant passing and repassing for the space of 8 days, and if you meet wth any remarkable thing that is worthy our notice) forthwith to dispatch an Indian Messenger, except the ffrench Troops should appeare, then to withdraw all your men & obserue so long as with safety you can how they march & what numbers of them may be guest, and all psons wth you are hereby strictly required to obey yor Commands as they will answer the Contrary at their utmost Perill Given under or hands the date aboves, To Ensigne Symon Van Nes. LIEUT. GOY. LEISLER. 225 To T'ETe G'OVERNOR OF BOSTON ffort william Aprill 3d 1690: IHOORABLE SIR-your 3 severall letters by Capt Black I have before me, & have seen your proceedings in new England, yours by the Lievt Governor I have before me1 the unexpected surprisall of Schonectady by the french & their Indianes Confederates hes so allarmed the fronteer post of Albany & yourselves & us, that it is thought a work necessary to be wvell consulted how to secure that place, the wellfare whereof concernes all the neighbouring collonies, and therefore having certane notice of 2500 posted in Mount royall which advanced from Quebeck towards Albany near 250 mills & an additionall strenth of the Indianes being expected may soon attack our aforesd post, then happily qwe are aware wee having done what our circumstances & Endeavors could well contribute, have likewise communicated the same to the government of East & West Jesery, pensilvania Alryland Virginia & other parts of new England. ILnsomuch thlat wve propose for a generall assistance that such persone's as to you shall seem meet may be commissioned to treat witth tem relating the sd important affaires, here at new york being adjudged the medium betweer theparties cocerned un the p24th of this Instant So that we may conclude what may conduce most to the Kings intrest the wellfare of the provinces, & the prevention if not destruction of the enimies, This is the needful for the present, Commending you to god, I remaine Your friend & humble Servant.CAPT C(ODE TO LEISLER. April 4th 1690, St. Marys, MOST HONORD SRa-The within is a copy of what I sent long since in answer to yors to ye Assembly, wch about 5 or 6 months being under an adjournment, thought it my duty to expedite it. It went by way of Pennsilvania but considering what a disafected interest interposes betwixt N. York & this place, wonder hot much at ye miscarriage; I have very greatefully, as well as conveniently received yours, March ye 4th the convencon of ye eprsentatives of ye Province being to sitt ye weeke after yorl VOL. II. 15 226 ADMINISTRATION OF came, till wch time I desired ye stay of ye messenger to advise how wee could best answer yor most reasonable and necessary desires, sent away to ye Virginia government, acett of yors & Coll Steders, desiring a speedy answer and concurrence. I am heartily sorry I had no sooner an acett of these two Rogues, Henly and Walsh. I had them very lately in custody upon suspicon, being Strangers, Irishmen & papists, & coming from Martinico, but they much appeald to yourselfe for justificacon upon wch they were confined till they would produce a certificate from your Hon' of their good behaviour, wch they confidently promised, but the sone undeceived us & made their escapes towards Pennsilvania, but have made fresh pursuit after them & doubt not to have them well returned in Irons & safely secured. I will do all that lies in my power to use my best diligence that all suspicious persons wthout passes, be secured. I am sorry for ye greate defect of duty & unaccountable & oversenss in their Maties subjects to their interest in yor partes as well as into many of them herewth us in this province, by wch meanes from treachery, cowardize and carefulness, that unfortunate & to be lamented accident has happened wth you, as to yor desires for some assistance from this governmt, your Honor may be well assured, that as it is our duty so to doe, having his Maties comands in ye Packett, seeming to intimate in ye enclosed to that purpose, so our interest obliges vs to secure ourselves by making some considerable attempts upon our Enemies, besides ye obligacon you have laid upon vs by your repeated Kindnesse and civilities, ye greater example you are pleased to remitt us of ye generous & Loyall attempts of His Maties Governor of Barbados, in order to wch I have & will still continue to vtmost endeavours for your best satisfacon & their Maties interest. As to news from England, we have no great matter here; Ships now arrived, tell us in particular that three men of war and two fire ships are coming wth a Fleete for Virginia & Maryland; have sent you a breviate of other newes that p'sent occurs. We have noe newes at p sent of an answer to or letters & papers (relating to our affaires here) sent to England. If your messenger returnes (as you intimate) by way of Maryland, if his arrivall here comes to my knowledge, I will take LIEUT. GOV. LEISLER.:27 all possible to contrive his speedy passage to New Yorke. While I am writing this I have recd an answer from ye Virginia governmt in answer to ors sent thither. Monday was sennight about ye late measures neer you, that they do nothing till his Maties pleasure be knowne, from whence I never expected any other answer, thay write likewise, that one Collo James Nicholson is coming wth the men of Warr, to be Lievt Governr of Virginia. As to our endeavors for your service, you have a letter from the convencon to that purpose, wth whome I have done what I cann & wch ye committee appointed to consider the same, ye report thereof herewth sent you, cannot at p'sent determine what will be the pfticular result of or endeavours, but you may be most confident nothing shall be wanting wherein I can serve To ye Honble Jacob Leisler Eqr, Commander in Chiefe of his Honrble Sr -these for their Maties Humble Servt Service. ) JN~ COODE TO THE GOVERNOR IN BOSTON 1690: 7th Aprill In fort William HONBLE SIR-Myn last to your honor was by the way of Rhoad Island in great haste onely representing to your honor the great necessity of a generall meeting in N: York to which I referre your honor, 1 have also for the same purpose sent to all parts east & west & am sorry that Capt: Blagg was denied, Livingstone being represented to your honor such malefactor charged with treasonable crymes, we have caused to search his house at Albany & find that he has conveyed away all box & papers concerning his Majestys revenue, having received same a wholl year without giving an account so that his Matie will loose considerable thereby, he was not able to doe the least hurt concerning the five nations more then they did, wee have gott possessione of the fort without violence nor bloodshed, & have setled there all things to great Satisfaction of the Indianes that was then there present, tuo of the chiefest mohacks sachems desired to come to York & discourse me, 228 ADMINISTRATION OF he received the greatest satifactione Imaginable discovering the great delusiones the Convention of Albany have putt them under, my greatest work was to -take away the umbrage the new England people gave by departing in that Juncture of time & broke our order by violence, -which was indeed breaking the silver chaine you mention & covenanted to, he will that appeare true that'your agent represents it to his Matie that new England was such warlike people &i like to make him Emperor of this moderne empire, but:I contribute the fault to no body but their sweet Secretary Allan, he rules those parts, his honor the Governor, having write to me that he had but the name of a Governor 8& your honor feares they will be discouraged to assist us, u-nless, wee accorodate & ease that matter where rather I Pnu1st say w;ithout abusing the good people among them, our cala;n1ities & divisiones are indebted to them. If the sd Connecticott had but done their part we had no need to feare our enimies. yoet t& they with us alike concerned to carry on the warre & preserve such conrsiderable post as Albany, I have invited them thereunto, but was wholly denied & of yourselves, I gott no encouragement onely of about nova Scotia, but I doe not despaire but hope at our meeting you will effectually discover the great delusion the Albany convension have putt you under in searching Livingstones house, we found a case belonging to a french Jesuite of Canada, & some Indian Categismes, & the lesson to learne to make their God before they eit them, with crucifix it was but how the minister who also had formerly great correspondance with the Jesuits, and another that deluded all the people there, the Indians have promised us to raise more than 1000 men of theirs to Joyne with 400 of ours wherof we have raised & sent up 260 men keeping the pass upon the lake with a company of Indians & Christians, In number about 50: that upon the enemies approach we -may be tymrlie advertised, I have sent last week to Connecticutt to beat the drum for volunteers but have noe advice of their success,' I expect also a messinger daily from Maryland, If the above sd expedition is to be caried on violently, & then by Gods blissing wee need not to doubt of good success, Albany must also not be left destitute of people to guard it well which can hardly be LIEiTT. GOV. LEISLER. 229 truly well effected without your & our neighbours assistance, therefore they long to have gott some encouragement by Capt Black, I desire the continuance of a good & real correspondence, being the Intrest of his Matie in this Juncture of tyme, pray sir lett me have a catalogue of all books & papers in your custody concerning his Maties province of newyork Inclosed you have the Sommary of the fort orange their capitulatione our answer Mr Mellines will interpret the dutch, having for the piesent no more to enlarge recommending your honor to God I remaine your honors most humble Servant &c. TO MARYLAND A: 1690: 9th Aprill in fort william HONORABLE SIR-Inclosed is a coppy of a letter sent to Virginia & Maryland to your selves & counsell by water and land, & hope they are come safe to your hand, I am greatly longing for an answer of myn by Lievt: Vanbrugg which I understand you have well received, I would' desire your honor if any letters concerning his Matiesintrest should be, send to me that it may be sent by a trusty persone because we receive non that comes through penasilvania, the Maquas oneydays, onondates Cackoques & mekehanders have espoused our cause, we have appointed persones to meet them at Albany in few dayes to consult our best way to intercept the enimies march, the Maquaas having given us a proofe of their fidelity and courage by persuing those that attacked Skenectady, even near their oun home taking and slaying 25 of them who lodged in the reare & promise to raise more than 1000 of theirs to joine w7ith 400 of ours, whereas we have raised & sent 260 for that intent keeping the pass upon the lake with a company of Indianes & Christianes in number of 50 that upon the enimies approach we may be tymely advertised being about 150 mills northward of Albany which post is of like concerine to you & us, therefore hope being well considered by you, you will afford us the greatest part of help desired from you, the abovesd expedlition is to be carried on violently, & then by Gods blissing wee need not to doubt of good success, Albany most 230 ADMINISTRATION OF also not be left destitute of people to guard it well, which can hardly be surely well effected without your & our neighbours assistance, therefore long for an answer of my former whereby wee expect some encouragement & desire the continuance of a further good and real correspondance being for the intrest of his Matie in this Juncture of tyme, we have no further newes of a party of franch & Indianes of which we have intelligence that they were upon the march the tuo other parties have effected their exploit having kild & captivated 99 about biscadray, & the other burned some houses near Sallem, the exact damage is not certainly known, It is reported of 70 persons killd & captivated Boston is fitting out vessels to attack the french by water, this is all for the present after my respects recommending yours to Gods protectione I remaine &c. your humble servant &c o [Translation.] CAPT. MILBORN-Friends and Brothers. After cordial salutation. Yours of the 5 April is shewn me. I have got as much maize as I could find, which I send up to your honour with Theunis Pieterson's yacht. I am busy in getting as much money from the King's revenue as will satisfy the people from whom I had the corn. The number will appear by the list in the letter. Touching the election of the two Delegates from our County, it it shall be done on the 15th inst. It was put off until your honour's arrival here. I feared a contest about it. I admit it ought to be a free election for all classes, but I would be loath to allow those to vote or to be voted for who have refused to this day to take their oath, lest so much leaven might again taint that which is sweet, or our head-men, which probably might happen. I yesterday received a letter from Pieter d'lanoy. There is yet no further news from sea. I expect quick progress and good success against the French, our enemies both by water and by land. LIEUT. GOV. LEISLER. 231 I shall expect to see your honours arrival here in the (yacht) coming down. Finally I commend your honour to God's protection, and remain Your honour's servant to command, ROELOF SWARTWOUTo Cinghs Thouwn the 11 April Ao. 1690. In the county of Ulster. Addressed C" To Capt. Jacob Mellborne, for psent at Albany." ------- -- [Translation.] Kingstoune. GENT.-Your various letters have safely come to hand, referring for the most part to the sending up as much maize as possible for the use of his Majisties Garrison; secondly to the sending back those who may have come from Albany or the County Jurisdiction, without the Knowledge of their Superiors; Lastly, that Kingstoune be fortified as well as possible against the attacks of the enemy. It serves for answer that pursuant to our duty we have made every effort to get as much maize as possible, and send your Honours per Teunis Peterse 936 skepels maize, and have further ordered that none be exported from our county, so that, should there be more, it may be available for his Majesty's service. Regarding those who may have come away from Albany County without permission, I could find none here except one Jan Jacobse, who pretends he could not earn his victuals at Albanytherefore hath requested permission to remain here to support himself & family, on condition that should the least news arrive here of the approach of any enemy, he shall be bound instantly to repair thither, to assist against the foe. Lastly in regard to fortifying Kingstoune, we request further explanation from you; for in all the letters, whether from the 232 ADMINISTRATION OF Honble Lieut. Gouernr or from your honour above, we have had no command to fortify Kingstoune; and moreover the W. Committee have verbally ordered that no person should fortify any part of the Esopus Hill, until Kingstoune shall be fortified and protected, as the chief place of this county; especially as we, without the assistance of the out villages, should be very inadequate against the attack of the enemy. No more at present, but I hope to see your honors here in a short time, and meanwhile remain Your humble serv. N. ANTHONY per This 11th April 1690 order of Jacob Reitse & Jan foke Addressed Aen Capt Johannes de Bruyn Mr. Johannes Prouos & Capt. Jacob Millborne present tot Albany. Hartford Aprill 11th 1690 HONOBLE SaRYour Letters of ye 2d & 3d of Aprill we have Seen & as to your desires of volunteers that we understand hath been granted but what fruit hath been gained thereby wee know not as to ye meeting you mention at York upon ye 24th of this month we cannot. Comply wth by reason of a meeting ye gentn of ye neigboring provinces have appointed before we heard of yours to be at Rhode Island ye last munday in this month (where we expect some of yours will be) wch we have Complied wth & that we may not be wanting in our duty to prserve his Majties Interest what we can & defend or selves & his Majties good subjects we have ordered that two CompieS be raised consisting of Six score & five teen Englishmen. about four score Indians (if they can be procured) w1t all speed be sent forth to Albany for ye defense of that City & County& also to take all advantages to LIEUT. GOV. LEISLERB 233: supres yc ennimies. But.we shall be at great Losse to procure ammunicion fior them & therefore ewe request your selfe that you will take Care Ilhat or men may be provided for with ammunicion for this Service. or. we: are so bear in or store that we must. keep what we have for or owne. preservacion If we were well stored or knew whet're to. supply orselves we. should not' matter it: but wthout you can supply us it will be a vayn thing, for us to send forth or men therefore we desire to have youre resolues in ye Case what we may depend on for it will be a great guide unto us in or motions & for provisions of pease bread & porke If you can- suit us: at albany we shall exchange wth you And pay you In, -wheat porke & Pease at Yorke or where you shall appoynt us to-pay you in or Colony forthwth &.shall be glad to know your resolves herein wch wth Or respects yor Honor is all at pr:sent From, Sr your affectionate frind the Governr & genI1 Col of Conecticut p. their order Signed JOHN ALLIN Secry: To.Captn Jacob L-eisler Esqr Lt Governr of NA. York HosNOBLE SR-I having not oportunity since my returne from harford to enforme you anything of ye product of my granting Liberty to ye drums to be beat up for volunteers but of the effectuall Course of: or genll Assembly'to raise two Compes ye one as speedily as ever we can effect it' to be on their marsh for albany ye other to follow after or great want is ammunicon we have lately heard by a good hand vizt: Mr. prout of great plenty of powder In virginia & if you se need or have oportunity to Sent for any please to Befrind us wth halfe adozen Barrels & you shall be Rembourised to content there Seemes not to be any supplie to Carry on the warr tIn or partes andt very little at Boston its said to be sold at Is pr pound retaile at said virginia or Colony hath pitched on some men to attend ye meeting at Rhode island weh was great pitty it had not been apointed soner we could not well doe anything to alter ye time or place ye notice being so shorte 234 ADMINISTRATION OF but hope some from yor partes & westward may be there we have no newes to acquaint yor honr wth but wth hearty desires that Counsills & Endeavrs may be guided & succeded to gods honor the peace and welfare of his maties good Subiects so prayes Yor honors Servant & Frind Milford 17th of Aprill 1690 ROBERT TREAT Gor To Jacob Leisler Esqr Lievt. Governr of N,York [Translation.] Kingstoune HONBLE CAPT DE BRUYN, MONSR PROVOSTS CAPT MILLBORNE, HEALTH!-These few lines shall serve, whereas news has come here that a second murder has been committed by our enemies within the jurisdiction of Albany County, I could scarcely believe it at first, as I doubted not but I should at least have reed a letter about it. But we must now be convinced through the confirmation of the people from your vicinity, of the certainty thereof. The comunity therefore took it very badly that we received no intelligence of it, especially as we had previously by express tidings of the first murder shortly after it occurred. I request therefore should there be any bad news to communicate it to us immediately; for it is better we should be on our guard and the people will feel greater satisfaction. Further'tis requested that a hundred plank and 25 [lbs?] nails may be sent us here by the first opportunity for the use of this place to make a centry box of them and whatever else may be necessary. We have been already obliged to borrow 25 and there are none to be had here. Therefore please not to fail. Our Representatives took their departure on the 16th instant. Gent. no more at present, but please to write us here by every opportunity, and meanwhile I remain Your humble Servt This 18th Apr1. 1690. N. ONY per N. ANTHONY per Addressed "Aen (!e E. Gecomiteerde Order of ye Court Capt. Johannis di Bruyn Monsr. Johannes Prouost & Capt Jacob Milborne present. Albany." LIEUT. GOV. LEISLER. 235 *LEISLER TO GOV. TREAT. Aprill the 19th in Fort William MOST iHORORD SRS-Your verry acceptable letter by ye bearer I have before me, and with great joy seen your resolt in assisting us with 135 English & 80 Indians, if possible only desiers us to provide them with ammonition, wCh as I understand is your present want; this is to advyce you yt wee verry tancfully accept your neighbourly assistance, & for powder, you may depend upon, there shall be distributed to them at Albany. 1 shall also not fail to send up bread, Peace & Pork according to your desire, therefore you can send it here by ye first oportunitie; wee haue sent up already 300 barils Pork, 200 Bushell of Peas, 600 Skepell of Indian Korne, 20000 lbs of Bread, 100 Bushel of Salt, 150 Dear Skins for shoes 2000 yd ossenbr for Tents & 3000 lb of Led, 105 lb of powder and 260 men with watt we cane gitt more, hire inclosed is 3 letters received from Maryland with the nues to which I referr your selfs:-in ye beginning of April aryved here two Maquaes, Considerable Sachems, who are verry firme & received greate satisfaction, discovering ye great delution ye Convention had but them undertaking lyfe from watt encouragement they have observed & here received, having promised us to rayse more then 1000 men of theirs, to join with 400 of ours, whereof we haue already raysed and sent 260 man, keeping ye pass upon ye Lake with a Company of Christians & Indians, in number aboute 50; that aboute the Enemies approach, we may be tymely advertized: aboute 8 days ago the same watch sent up to Albany, yt they had discovered the trake of 12 ffrench & Indians, and doubt not but in 2 days should doe some mischief, whereupon ye people where advertized & ordered to be upon their guard, but having so many couwards & Traitors amongst us, who indeavour to bulle [lull?] ye people in security, occasions the people to be careless-It hapened yt last Sabeday, at Nistigione, 12 myle from Albany, ye people there gathered all in one house & keept watch, the said ffrench & Indians, finding in the night the houses empty, & perseving their retreat, went in a swamp, the people going in ye mourning, each to their houses, were surprized, 9 Christians 2 negers were kild & captivated, which must needs 236;ADMIINISTRATION OF incourage the enemie to further attempt if not prevented by a vigorous attake in Canada, About the Meeting at Road Island, I had expected you & them here; we are resolved to alter nothing in our resolution; we are fully resolved to carry on the warr against our bloody enemye the French and there adhereants; & spend our all &: lyfe toe, and haue & are in action aboute it; it is too late to fitch ye Midwife when the chield is borne; we shall be glad to accept & imbrace wat assistance you plais to afford us, and use all the means imaginable, & further trust in God. I haue a men of warr riddy with 20 gunns & 120 resolute men, commissionated for Canada & intend one or two Brigantines if possible. I would haue no Provision of the ill affected Bottler nor his, nor the lyke' person to come near us in our actions, it is therefore in vain to send him, becase I shall not suffer him there nor any which we suspect'. I desire reall friendly and Naighbourly corespondency; you may ashoor yourselfs I shall want in nothing that may tend for his Maties interest & ye welfare of his provinces; and after my Respekt, recommand you in God's protection & remaine Sr your affectionate & humble servant JACOB LEISLER Superscribed To the Honorable Robert Treat, Governour of Coneticutt. These 26th March 1690. The Indian Sachem Obson wth his Brother apeared Before ye Governor & Councill unto whome sd Governor & Councill acquainted of or New King Wm & warr with y-j French & desired what Assistance they Could give in agst ye French at Canada Whereupon they Answered they should Consider together & should bring Answer wth all Expedicon & was given to them two yds duffels two pd powder two barrs Lead and three Bits In Money. the Sachem whemeach of chiqueta unto whome ye same was proposed & Like Answer was made, and given 2 yds cloath 1 lb powder 1 bar Lead. LIEUT. GOY. LEISLER. 37 the Sachem Schipay & his nephew Mamid ye.same as above written & six bits given to them & spended upon them by Samuel Edsall Esqr. Aprill 5th. 1690. The Indian Sachems of Kightowan, Wessecamer, WNuscawanus, did promise to send Six Men and given Each 1 yd Duffels 2 bits & 2 gl Rom wch meane to go to Albany against ye French. Aprill 19th. 1690. The Sachem of tappan called Mendoassyn & a Capn called Wigworakum & sayd that they had sent fifteen days ago twelf men to ye Maquase and Sirnekes & and when Returne shall sent more being Strong in all 60 Young Men & was given to themn. ancor of Rum 1 barel sider & to each a duffels Coat & Recomanded to them to be united together wch is to suppress ye Comon Ennemy ye french & their Indians wch they accepted & a cloth pilch to Claes. New York ye 30 April 1690 Then delivered by Mrs du Bois to the Lieutenant Wm1 Churcher for the Expedition at Albany Five Cto three Quarters Twenty two Pounds Lead, at Thirty Shill: p Cto to be paid out of his Majesty's Revenue of Custome or otherwise out any Tax to be raised to pay the Publick Charges.'Copy Signed pr DELANOY, Collr Endorsed-Mr. deLanoy Coll's Certificate to Mrs. du Bois for Lead. for the use of the Expedition in the year 1690. A. D. 1690. ye 30 apprill: In N. Yorke GENTLEMENS-Last monday arrived heer the Commitioners off Boston Plimouth en Caneticot who have been taking off severall businis Concerning the Indian war but ar resolved In noting mein demand Is off theme to assist vs by land with 500 man-I proposed to pay 400 man 300 we send up en 100 man from albani en Ylster who most bq paid by vs the have offert 300 man en hoop to'optaine the rest Or 100 man. the shall send to ther Ships that are out to go to Canada but the expeckt ouers 238 ADMINISTRATION OF to be onder Command off thers with Kan not be-I made theme be troublet abouth allins letter en hoop all will doe well, the arivall en expectation off som Indians, Is acceptable nues to vs all: Mest. Delanoy has send 85 Barils Biff en Porke 3 Barils led en 1 pig by the first we shall send Bred en oder things. Capt Bleeker has the Laus, the with I refeer your I have proroged them when I saa the intendet to work with the Prisoners mest riars desired som guns with iff your seemeth most be taken from sloop or petrares for Schonectede with wee Desiers ma not be desertet doo It shuld kost 50 soldiers to maentain Evert Wendell Is remaind heer by min leve becas his Chelder died therefore kan be excused the mayer and me Selvst ar In continual compayni with the Comisioners we have advice off marsch off the marilanders It Is thougt the will travell by land for faer off the small poks. I shall further aquaint your by the first what further Passes we have gatt a hhd Rom 1 hhd suger off liveston Comming from Barbados 15 halff Baril suger 2 hhd 21 ters 3 Barill Rom 4 hhd malasses for mathew Plouman after min Respekt I remain Sers Your affectionate frind JACOB LEISLER. I had send Blank Comision for Capt. by Mest Edsall who has fild up to Gabriell thomes I hoop he will gitt Courage an Conduck the Comissioners officers war promised ther Comisions heer with I have given en beliff the Deserved: J L Addressed, To The Honoble the Comissioners Capn John D'Bruyn, Mr. John Provoost & Capn Jacob Milborne Esqrs In Their maties service at Albany HONORABLE SIRS-Since the departure of your messengers, wee have been very much occupyed, that wee have been retarded till now to send to your honors Capt: William Masone Lievt Walters, & master duffore to assure your honours of myn & the LIEUT. GOY. LEISLER. 239 councells most humble service, & that you are heartily wellcome in this his Maties province, where you will find us very complyable in any thing that may tend to his Maties Service & the wellfare of his Subjects in these his provinces, & hope we shall shortly have the honor to salute you, In the mean tyme after my respects &c. 1689 The Heer Luyt Gouvernr Jacob Leysler debet Aug 9. For 15 green planks for Fort William..... ~00.11. 16]9} 1 barrel of Strong Albany Beer..... 00.15:Feb. 25. 8 skep1 white peas for fort William.. 1.-:Mch 1. 2 ps bl. duffels long 50: 461 both 96yard @ 5 st. per yard........ 24. 2:6 1690 26 50 lbs lead @ 4-................... 00.18:9 1 Red Cloth Cloak trimmed with gold Lace & its accompaniments for an Indian......... 3. 5:Item one hundred p8 of eight in Spetie loaned for 3 days............. 30.-:Total.............. 60:12:6 N York the 2d May 1690 pr Anna Cuyler Widow of decd HEND CUYLER. N Yorke Primo May 1690. At a meeting of ye Commissionrs of ye Province of New York & ye Collonies of ye Massachusetts, Plymouth & Connecticut. It is Concluded as their unanimous Result that In ye Psent Expedicon for the Strengthning of Albany ye Pursuing & by ye help of Almighty God Subduing ye french & Indian Ennemies Continnuing in hostility agst their Magties that each of ye Collonies aforesd shall Provide & furnish ye undermenconed proporcons of Souldiers with Answerable Provisions at their own Charges to iBe sent wth all Speed: 24 0 ADMINISTRATI ON OF vizt By New Yorke four hundred...... e..,,o,.,. 400 By Tassachusetts Colony one hundred & Sixty., 160 By Conecticut Colony one hundred & thirty five. 135 By Plymouth Colony sixty..... B.... e o. e 60 By Maryland by Promise one hundred....,.... 100 In all Eight hundred fifety five,..,.e... 855 Farther Agreed that ye Major Be apointed by ye Lt Govr of New Yorke & ye next Capn to Be Apointed by ye Collonies of ye Massachusetts, Plymouth & Connecticut. That All Plunder & Captives (if any happen) shall be divided to ye officers & Souldrs ac6rding to ye Custome of Warr That All Matters of great Concernemt be directed & ordered by y' Councill of Warr consisting of ye Major wth ye rest of ye Commission Officers or so many of them as there is oportunity for That ye Souldiers Sent out or to Be Sent out be not Employed In any other Service or Expedicdn then whatis now Agreed on wthout farther Consent of the severall Colonies That y Officers Be required to maintaine good order Amongst ye Souldiers to discountenance & Punish Vice & as much as may be, to Keep ye Sabbath & maintaine ye Worship of God JACOB LEISLER WILLIAM STOUGHTON SAML SEWALL P. D LANOY JOHN WALLEY NATHAN GOLD WILLIAM PETKIN. TO MAJOR JACOB MILBORNE GREETING By virtue of ye Authority derived unto inee I do hereby constitute & apoint You to be Major of all yC forces now raised or to be raised for ye expedicon of Albany out of this Province & ye New England Collonies & Maryland acdrdling to ye unanimous result mrade wth said Collonies ag:t ye french at Canada you are therefore Carefully & diligently to discharge ye duty of a LIEUT, GOV. LEISLERo 241 major by Exercising ye Same In Armes & Keeping them In good order & discipline both Officers & Souldiers observing Strictly all ye Articles In ye Said Result Expressed hereby willing & Commanding them to observe & follow Such orders & direcc6ns as you Shall from time to time receive from mee or any apointed by my Selfe & Councell Acording to ye Rules & discipline of war Pursuant to ye trust reposed In You & to Execute all acts of hostility against ye french King his Subiects & their adherents & this Commission to Continue during any will & Pleasure only. GIVEN &c. this 25th of May 1690. JACOB LEISLER, LEISLER TO TATHEM, A: 1690. 7th May in forth William HONORETH SER-Your last is befor vs. having Considert the Contenu I most allow Wath your represent to me therein. I am Sori Your vessell happent Yust at sutche theime when som franch heer by their I1 Caridg provoket the piple Whereby the war Stierd up to vs Severite to prevent some off the franch their arogants who ar hir In greth nomber en thinke It is now ther teime We ar distrost at ouer bak and In ouer Bossm We have Men with we kannot well trost with was the Cas 2 was sesed one Clerd thoder Condemned then Information was Brought In Court When the Suth with I kold en most noth hinder. en so se was Condemned for min parth I freli given again His Maiestes part a band will satisfie me Iff Demanded from his Maieste the Informers parth Is not at min disposall but I. prevalle that he shall be satisfied with 10 or 12 ~ en somme few Charges ther Is vpon the Vessell Is aprized 45 ~ but nu It hapens that we have presed one bermodian for his Maieste Service for the Expedition off Canada en that the Oners thereoff Complains that In Bermodes the will starff for want off provisions en desires your Vessell to bring them suply where for a rpsonable hier most be allowed to you Iff in the foreseid I kan render to Goevernour Koxe min service en your plais to accept It You shall be Welkom to it but I Expect him hir that was mister off the wessell to go Pilot for Canada a Cording his promis I hoop your will not hinder him but reder Incourage him for he Is able to render his Maiest6 goed service VOL. o1. 16 242 ADMINISTRATION OF I further refer your to Wath I have Vrit to Mestr Henli being publik Concerns en hoop your Will Contribut to vrge the piple that the ma be sensble off this aproching en Menasing Storme en that the are alike Concerned In ouer Just en necessarie Deling & vrg for ther assistance that we ma be able to make up a 1000 men. en that troe Gods Blessin We ma tak a Way the Causse off ouer Misseris. Your wille obligie mee with on anasr In the meantime I remaine Endorsed 4 A coppy of a Letter to John Tathem at Burlington 7th May 1690. LEISLER TO ALL THE WESTERNE GOVERNMENTS Anno: 1690: 13 May in fort william HONORED SIR-yesterday departed Mr Pembrock with letters to you Just after his departure I received the happy news fol lowing from our commissioners, dated the 8th May, the very words are.-The great busines of the Indianes is concluded & have answered our propositiones satisfactorily with 1800 men amongst the five nationes, of which a more parlar accompt we shall send to morrow, yours by the Esopus have received and shall attend your further resolves since it is that much will be required to the necessary equipping the march if with 600 men, the letter by the way of Esopus is the result of the provinces &c. & easterne collonies which I have sent that way with hopes we shall make it up by the help of East & west Jerseyes pensilvania & Rhoad Island 1000 men, being but in hopes by their letters thereupon hes as I perceive promised to the Indianes 600 men, I hope you will not be wanting to promote so blissed a work at this tyme to please God & our gracious King losing the opportunity and neglecting the season may cause the next generation to curse us, therefore I desire you for very speedy help, wee having and are doing daily our best, I further referre you to Mr. pembroke & what is written by him after my respects I remaine &c. LIEUT, TOV. LEISLE.o 243 M MESSRS. EDSALL & PEMBROKE TO G-OV. TREAT. GOUERNOUR TREAT-Honored Sir, Ye terms agreed on by ye Liftenant Gouernor and Connecite for ye v-olentears to be raised for ye o on to Albany, is twenty five shillings pr month, besides theire provisions and free plunder to such as shall goe out with the macqwas and Sinecas to Mont Riall or any place in Canada, which incoragment plase to acquaint your neighbours withS whereby you will oblidge you reall friends and neighbersSAMUELL EDSALL ELKANAM PEMIBROKE BY THE LIEVT GOVERNOR WHEREAS There is made an Ordr of Councell dated this day to Secure all porke wth in this City to be Brought to his Maties Store howse for his sd Maatie serviceThese are therefore in his Maties name to will and require you to make diligt Enquiry & Search In all sellars stores pack howses and other places where you Know suspect or hear of any to Be and take an Exact acct of ye names of ye owners & ye qt thereof & secure sd porke in his Maties Stores as aforesd & in Case of refusall for opening sd sellars stores & pack howses to use all manuall force to Brake open ye same to Effect ye Premisses & this shall be your spetiall Warrt G-IEN &c this 15th day of May, 1690. JACOB LEISLEP, TO THE GOVERNNoRF oBARBADOES. A: 1690: 17 May in fort william HONORABLE SIR-y6ur courteous Letter of the 27th January I have received thought it my duty to returne an answer about the tuo irish rogues. I wrote to Maryland & virginia & gott an answer from Coll: Cood Chiefe commander in Maryland, in the words following I am heartily sorry I had no account sooner of these tuo rogues Henly & welch, I had them very lately in custody upon Suspitione being strangers Irishmnen papists & coming from I Here the sheet is torn and a sentence or two missing. 244 ADTMI'NISTBATION OF Mortoneno, but they much appealed to your selves for justification upon which they were confined till they could produce a certificate from your honor of their good behaviour which they confidently promised but they soon undeceived us & made their escape towards pensilvania, but have made fresh persuite after them & doubt not to have them well retorned in yron & safely secured this is all what I could have of them, the french of Canada with their Indianes committed six bloody masacres in this province three, & in new England three, they have destroyed Skanectady a vilage 20 milles from Albany, murdered sixty three men women and children, carried captive 27: & have committed the greatest tyrranny imaginable, ript up women with chyld throwed children alive into the flame, dashed others agt door post till their braines stuck to it, another murder of eleaven people, and one or two committed since last fall, we send 52 men up to guard that place, but a certane number of people there maintaining the comissiones from sir Edmond Andross & Coll: dongan deryving from the authority of the late King James would not accept them there, but keept the fort by virtue of the sd Commission & would not suffer any of them to goe & guard Sd village being the fronteer but send of their people there, by which rneanes from treachery cowardice & carelesnes that too unfortunate and to be lamented accident lies happened there, the river being frozen that noe forces could be sent up the winter, the well meaned people, lodged our souldiers who kept guard in the citty whereof the french & Indian (in number of 100 men) had advice the hIndianes would not goe there & so altered the designe & that place was by that meanes spared our Indians persued them killd & tooke 25 frenchmen who gave us an account of severall troops out in a designe in the spring to come with 2500 french besides their Indianes, your honor great & generous example and loyall attempt agt the bloody enimies the french, you were pleased to acquaint me besides the foresight & good advice of the weaknes your honor suspects the french at Canada, wherein in the great advantages his Matie & his subjects may reap by, who have resolved to us all the meanes imaginable to prevelnt & if possible destroy them there, and so soone the weather has permitted, wee LIEUT, GOY. LEISLER. 245 haeve sent uap 2560 men more, & sent out 50 men to shout & w atch the french wee discovered 12 tracks of them & gave tymlie notice wheupon all the stragelt people were ordered to come in the Citty, which was punctually obeyed except tuo families who would first prepare a diner & so were surprized, & the sd eleaven killed & captivated, awe have appointed a day here to send Commissioners from all the Government to meet & consult & negotiate about the warre, which was assured by some & others with slow & frivolous excuses, at last was a vessel taken wThereof your honor hes a inclosed besides we have here a privateer with 24 gunnes 150 men who engage to goe with a Briggantine eight gunnes four pitteraroes 70 men, one sloope with four gunes tuo pitteraroes & 50 men by us equipped for to attack Quebeck, Boston hes artmed considerably some ships & other vessels for to take port royall a very inconsiderable place, & puts us in hopes they will send them for Canada, but would not engage it. It is certaine as your honor remarkes It is now the tynme the same now to loose or neglect may cause the next generation to curse us, our fletch please God will be ready within 3 or 4 dayes our people by our result is at Albany by them of our neighbors but eighty men, we have people well versed in the Indian tongues, we send to live amongst them to observe the french motion I had here one of tlhe chiefest Indianes with whom I have treated & so possessed that he himselfe is gone to all the Indianes prevailed & corroborated their enmity agt the french which hes taken so good effects, that we got newes from our Commissioners dated 8th may whereof here is the very words the great business of the indianes is concluded & have answered our propositiones satisfactorily, with 1800 men amongst the five nationes of which a more particular account wee shall send to morrow to which we shall joine 600 men2 I have detained the bearer tuo dayes to send your honor the particulars, but the hory kalnes storms will be neer when he may arryve at Barbadoes, thought not good to detaine him longer, we have advice by the french prisoners that there is troops out' to make an attempt near us, wherefore we are upon our guards, & if some surprise should happen the people living so scattered would cause them to fly he re & make provision 246 ADMINISTRATION 01 scarce, that with severall other causes lles obliged us to make an embargo, but considering the dependence Barbadoes Jamaica & Nevis have from these places we have permitted about 50 tunne provision to be transported to each whereof the bearer is the portion of your Island, we hope a good success in our undertaking if please God we obtain it, we never need to fear any Indianes, If your honor could speedily dispatch some men of warre for Canada, it would doe a great service for his Matie & no doubt but by Gods blissing could be a great meanes to wholly subdue Canada I begg the happines of a line or two from your honor by the first opportunity which will oblige us all to ardint requitall specially from &c. TO THE GOVERNOR OF BOSTON A: 16(90: 17 May in fort william HONORAaBLE SIR-I have sent to your honor by land the agreement between the Indianes & us, & a coppy of Major Millbornes letter of the arryvall at oneidas of the french fiom Canada, which presents to the five nationes & that wee are resolved to stand to our unanimous result, I hope all is come to hand to which I referre your honor, onely I most add that at the arryvall of our people mongst our confederate Indianes they have immediately seized upon the five french with their presents, & have shared four amongst them, and have sent nme the chiefest, being a knight with all his papers letters and instructiones, whereof one leafe is torned out concerning this country, by the bisshops letter of Canada to a priest prisoner, we discover that treasonable correspondence has beenkeept by people mistrusted amongst us, we have had 300 and od men compleat ready at Albany these seaven weeks and can have the other 200 immediately there to compleat our number for the intended march and we perceive but 70 men of Connecticott, and if your number comes not very speedily by which delay we are detained from our proceedings & may be so disappoynted that all our good work may be overturned to which the french spare noe paines nor costs to doe it, 3 hope our 3 vessells have acquainted your honor of their errand & LIEUT. GOV. LEISLER. 247 that Some Speedy resolutione is taken to Joine with them, I have acquainted Mr. Molline of the horrid designe our adversaries have undertaken upon the newes of the late King James his strenth in Ireland & how through God's mercy they were prevented, whereof 22 are secured in order to their tryall, having for present no more to enlarge after my respects I remaine sir your honors most humble servant, &e LEISLER TO HIS AGENTS AT ALBANY Fort William may 19th 1690 GENTLMEN-Yours of ye 8th Instant I received ye 10th Instant expecting according your Promise ye next day ye Particulars of ye whole Proposition wth ye Indians after wch we Lang wth ye greatest Impatiens Imaginable I have sent Imediately to major Gold and yr governr desyring them to desist to address there Letters so unadvisedly and also that I had newes of Sutch a Satisfactory answer to what was proposed to ye five nacons who were to assist us wth 1800 of there Indians for Canada and that I expected to morrow the particulars & ye time appointed for ye march wbch also I should speedily advice & so resolved to send Capn Blagg to boston with ye same to Spur them for dispatch Mr Pembroke is departed before your advise to Maryland & virginia but have sent ye aforesaid advice after him. Since I received your Letter of ye 8th instant is arrived here severall sloops from albany but none of yours wch puts us in the greatest consternacon as ever we where ye more because Or adversaries have not only in ye towne but all ye Country over to or great grief spread abroad that nothing was done but drinking and that thereby when ye Indians where there was caused Sutch disturbance that ye widdou Scuyler beat Capn Milborne & that you where all three forced to fly out of ye towne & where gone to Esopes & Peter Scuyler was in ye fort wthl great many Incredible reflecions wch daily are reproached to our People to o' great grief and Sorrow we Know that it is there daily practise to throw Scandal and Lyes upon us to render us odious they have formerly endeavored to posses 24 8 ADMINISTRATION OF ye whole Countrey I was become a dronkerd we doubt not. but when we shall have Letters from you we shall be put of ye dark we are now In we durst not be inquisitive after newes therefore we have sent to Esopes, where we expected you would go so Soone ye business was settled at Albany & you could Spare time hoope you are gone again to Albany where this may find you all in good health & have given order if' you were departed to Sent it wth one a purpose that you might know the malice of or adversaries & to take away all what may give umbrage to refleckt so wickedly as they do heer now It is nor kan not be believed by us but Impossible to stop there Lying mouths I desire a speedy answer of all transacions when ye geni1 march Is Intended who you propose for major also forme of commission for him what for Instrucions is need to be given what People Is like to be had at Sopes & albany to compleat or nombr of four hundred what quantity of People of ors are dead wth there names & pray send me downe again all ye Letters wth ye answers I have send you by Mr. Cuyler & before the proclamation of war or three vessells will depart ye - of this instant we expect daily newes from Maryland wC1 we shall send so soone we have it ye Sarge and Lining & Bread you have desired shall be sent by ye first I have secured in the fort 180 barrll of Pork wCh was all what was in ye towne we have an Imbargo Mr Edsall Is gone to Suffolk County to Settle all things they having submitted this is all for ye present. I salute you & Remaine GOV: OF lMARYLAND TO LEISLER. Maryland May 19th 1690 HONBr, SR —Since my last to you I have received from yor Selfe Two Letters the first dated the Second of Aprill wch I received the 21: the other dated the 11th of Aprill wCh I recevd the 10th of May with a letter enclosed in each to President Bacon in Virginia both of which carefully by me sent as directed into that Colony, you have herewith an answer to the first which I presume intimates the same Coll Bacon writt mce that they of that Gov LIEUT. GOV LEISLER.L 249 ernmt cann proceed to nothing till the arrivall of their Gouvernor weC they dayly expect, and then an affair of that nature will require the consultation and advice of an assembly, I hope you have long since received a letter from the Convention with another from my selfe by the same Messenger Wee had then some hopse, and I did press it -with my utmost diligence to send some men and armse to your assistance but when wee came to raise the men and proportion the charge we found ourselves perplext with unconquerable difficultys to perforne what wee then soe rea.sonably hoped, from the great distance betweene this goverment and yors, the unsettled state of our present constitution not having any orders from England or knowing their Majestys pleasure relating to this province wch soe discouraged our Councells that we could come to noe determinate resoluc6n upon the riseing of the Convention nor after till the receipt of yors Aprill the 2d upon which only thing I sumoned the Comittee May the 12th by whose advice this comes when all that wee could resove upon in this juncture was to send agents, to whose custody this is comitted to wayte upon your Honor at Newyorke to consult the best expedient for the present serice of their Majestyse and to remit an account hither with all expedition, by which time wee doubt not of the arrivall of the two men of warr of which wee have certain advice that they are upon the coast, and that his Majestyse letter for the province is on board whereby we shall [be] able to return them such further orders and instructions as may most conduce to his Majestyse Service and be the better empowered to contribute the best assistance wee are able for the same to which end wee have ordered both or either of the persons herewith sent and recomended vizt Mr. William Blankersteine and Mr. Amos Nicholls to reside at New yorke as agents for this Province till further orders from hence to them relating, to whom wee desire you to give good creditt in what they shall say or consult to on behalfe of this Province, for their expences and charges while in NeNwyorke both or either of them are hereby assured of the publick fayth-I am to meete the Comittee suddainly, where'will do. what possibly is in my poweer for his majestys service and yor ass;stance, of which will give you a very expeditious 250 ADMINISTRATION OF account. This is what can possibly be agreed upon at present from myselfe and Comittee Comg Hond Sr I am yr most faythful hum Servt Addressed JNO COODE To The Honble Jacob Leisler Commander in Chiefe of his Majestys ffort: In New-Yorke: These JACOB LEISLER Lievt Governr & Comander in Chief of ye Province of N York & its dependencyes under his Miajtie William ye third by the Grace of God of England Scotland french and Ireland defendr of ye faith &ca Supreame Lord of ye Province of N York & all other ye territories and dominions to ye Crown of England belonging &c" To Capn William Masson Comandr of ye ship yC Blessed William of New York, GREETINGReposing great trust & Confidence In ye Prudence & Courage & Ability of you ye sd Capn William Masson as well In Military as Maritime affaires I do hereby Constitute and apoint you to be Capn of ye sd Ship & to take ye Care & Charge of ye same wth all yr men that now do or hereafter shall Belong unto ye sd Ship Requiring them to be obedient unto You wth all ordring You to Obey all such orders as you shall from time to time receive from me or other YOUR Superior officers hereby Comissionating & Impowering you wth ye sd ship & Compy forthwith to saile for Quebeck In Cannada to warr as to your Wisdome seem meet & to assault attack destroy as much as in you Lies & to oppose & to distruccon bring all or any that shall defend or assist ye french Interest as well as In your Journey to Canada and returne upon ye Banck or Elsewhere you Can meete any to take Seize & make LIEU'. GOV. LEISLER. 251 prize of all goods on Shore or vessells at sea belonging to ye french King or any Inhabitants under there Governmt as allso all frenchmen themselves to take Slay Kill or save Alive & to Iniure them in what you possibly Can Comanding you to Bring all Vessells & goods that you shall take from them to this Your Comission port for Condemnation, & for your soo acting therein this shall Bee your Sufficient Comission. GIVEN &c this 19th day of May 1690 &c In N York JACOB LEmStE, A similar Commission to Captn francis Goderis of ye Brigantine John & Catharine of New York; to Captn Geo Bollen of the Sloop resolucon; to Gerrit Hardenberg of the Sloop Royal Albany; & to Capt John Swinton of the sloop'Edward. The last to cruise about Block Island & the Sound. BY THE LIEIV GOVERNOR &c Orders to Capn francis goderis Comandr of ye Brigantine Juo & Cataryn In his Majt'es Service In an Expedicion for Canada agst ye french & their adherents You are to Saile wth all Speed directly for Canada & Quebeck their to alarm ye french & to make what Conquest possibly you Can by Sea & land & to Stay there for a whole month & if no Conquest then Cruze upon ye terra neuf Banckes for some Prises & for that time & place you are to obey Capn Wm Mason your admirall but from ye bankes you are to repaire to this Port wth ye goods & Prises if any gott for Condemnacion GIVEN under my hand at fort Wm In New Yorke this 20th day of May 1690. This is a true copy of ye ord received by me from ye Lt Governor of New Yorke wch I promise faithfully to observe & obey in every thing to ye utmost of my power as witness my hand ye day & year above written. FFRANCIS GOEDERIS Signed JACOB LEISLER Sealed & D.D.'n ye presence of Abrahln Gouverneur Similar orders were given to Capt Bollen 552 ADMINISTRATION OF LEISLER TO MAJO WALLEY [Date, about 20th May, 1690] SIR-The prisoner Lafores having been knowen here to have committed a murder & condemned at new Bristell being catched and evident proofe as above deposed, have thought convenient to send to you by Capt. Anthony Low that the sd Condemnatione may be executed, I hope before now your promised forces may be at Albany, If not we with you may receive desperate disappointments I have here a trench knight who was sent to doe your and our busines by our Indianes, and if we had been of such slow motion as we find new England is, he had certainly prevailed to our utter ruine, I referre you further to Mr. Low, & relmaine &c. SEC: ALLYN TO LEISLER Hartford May 25th 1690 HONBLE SiR —we thank your kynd reception of our Comrs & certifie your H-onr that in persuance of their promises & the generall good we have sent Capt. Johnson & his company consisting of about eighty to Albany of whose arryvall we have had an accompt & are raising as many more as will make our number well towards two hundred as we hope which will be ready for their march as soon as we hear of the readines of the mashachusets & plumouth forces to be much before them will advantage nothing but hazard our men to the small pox now so rife at Albany, we request you to supply our men with what is needful in provision as also with ammunition according to your Honrs former promise and our dependance thereon we are also sending a vessel with provision for our souldiers & to pay what we may have borrowed for this expedition & are in all poynts by Gods help resolved to prosecute our intentions made known to you in the mean tyme till our provisions arrive at Albany we request you to supply our men with what is needful in provision &c. It will be necessary that the 5 nations ayde & the tyme and the generall maner of their readines be settled with them by your Honrs meanes and the same signified to Boston and hither, as much guiding LIEUT, GOV. LEISLERI 253 the whole motion with us we have written to Boston, giving them an accompt of things as they are now with us, and amongst other matters have proposed to endeavor to procure Major Gen11 wintrop a comander in chiefe for the forces who we feare is not [obtainable & we] also propose whether he will not be fittest to comand in chiefe & we are fixtt upon it, as for other great reasons, so partly because we think your Honrs eye may be upon Capt. Milborne with whom our souldiers at Albany we hear are disgust & ours here are not well satisfied, the chiefe officer must be generally acceptable as well as otherwise well qualified & if Major wintrop be eyther not attainable or not acceptable to your Honr we desire you will accept some other person whom the bay sheargent may propose which if you doe we shall rest in it or that your Honr propound some other the most considerable you have, we have character Major Mc... may be of good improvement tho not Chiefe commander, if your Honr think him serviceable he is within your trusting, your dispath by sea agt Canada are highly necessary to give our endeavours by the lakes the more easie, if the small pox gett into the army, it will be the disabling our proceedings from Albany, therefore great care should be used to prevent it, & if it should gett head, we must consider how to draw our forces agt our enemies by sea or otherwise as God shall direct while they are clear of that distemper, we desire you will grant the master of our vessell with his provisions & men your pass conduct and directions up Hudsons river to Albany as he may need or shall desire, we have not to add [anything more] & that we are your affectionate friends the Gov. & Council [& by] their order signed p: JOHN ALLYN Secretary [The P. S. to the above is almost wholly destroyed.] -SECY. AiLYN TO LEISLER, Hartford May 28th 169O0 HoNOBLE SR-Since our last (although but yesterday) we haue intelligence from Albany of very great sickness among the people and soldery, that near half our men are sick of fluxes, many being 254 ADMINISTRATION OF the bloody flux & feauors, and one of the Small Pox, the fluxes thought to be occasioned by bad Pork, that the Maquaes are down of the Small Pox, 5 of them haue dyed, after all which we could do no less then comunicate to the Honble Gov. & Councell of the Massachusets, and to aduise whether wee were not better to stay a little the issue of those distempers if God please to grant it then to rush our men on heapes and render them useless or worss; wee slake not our preparations on this account, but as yor Honr cannot but haue more speedy intelligence then wee of those things, so we desire your informations and aduice about it and what men may be improued with such of the Indians as may be wil. to infest the French by partyes, and what resolutions are taken with the Indians to haue their strength joyned with ours, that one thing wait not for another, as God may by gluing health inable unto; wee request that al meanes be used to keep the Indians in good terms with us, and that such persons as can best influence them be incoraged so to do-Wee haue not to ad, saue that wee are yor Honrs freinds & Servants the GoVr & Councill of His Maties Colony of Conecticut and pr thir order Signed JOHN ALLYN Secry For the Honble Jacob Leishler Esqr Comander in Cheife at his House in New Yorke, This for His Maties Service. *LEISLER TO TREAT. Fort Wm 29th of May 1689. [1690] HoNo"LE SER.-Yours in date of ye 15th Instant signed John Allin Secry by order of ye Governor and councell, I have received ye 25th Instant & is now before me, In answer, I am glad to see that by ye help of God, you are resolved to prosecute your comissionrs promise anld ye hoope you give us of 200 men, & that they will be ready for their march wth the Massachusetts & Plymouth forces. I have already advised you of Capt Johnsons LIEUT. GOY. LEISLER. 255 arrivall wth his CompY, they are furnished wthl what they want acording to your desire; Your Vessel wth provisions shall not be hindred to go to Albany, but reather furdered and assisted. I have been forced to seize all ye Porke out of this City, in ye fort-& found but 180 barills; therefore depend on your sendingo Inclosed is the Copy of or proposalls to ye Indians & there answer. ye gentle-nl, Comissionrs at there first 2 or 3 dayes arrivall here urged us to make up ye number of 800 or 1000 men by land & they had 800 by sea already & we here 240, & and that they would make it up 1400 or 1500 men & had made a calculation upon paper wch they showed us, wherein they ingaged New York 400 by land & 240 by sea, Conecticut 300, Maryland 100, East Yersey 50, whereupon I advised or Comissioners at Albany; what force we where like to obtaine. Ye Indians arriving there made them propose ye nombr in there proposition exprest, of wvch they cane not go back said propositions being concluded, where sent down to us in a Vessell wch run upon a shole, so that I got it but on ye 27th Instant, ye 3th day after ye Comissionrs from ye severall Colonies had mett wth us, & we desired to conclude or result. The Gentlen of Boston would not engage that there fleet should go in Canada River for Quebeck, only if they had success at Port Royall where they where bound, they believed, being thereby encouraged, they should resolve then and acquaint us thereof by ye first, but we heard nothing since, only Mr Moline advises me that ye 27th of this Instant was appointed ye meeting at ye Rendevous at Sprinckfield to depart for Albany; we have newes that the Indians begin to arrive at Albany. I shall give order that none shall go upon ye march but sutch as have had ye Small Pocks, because if any should get it upon ye march we lose 3 men, there can be left no lesser than two men that have had ye Pocks by ye sick, I have been very causious & have listed none but sutch as had had the Pocks, onely some that has been sent to me from the countrey, those that had it not will be fit to guard the fronteers, or Fleet is departed ye 26th Instant, commissionated for ye designe; inclosed is ye Copy of there order ingaged by them, they have particular order if possible to stop at Cape Ann & to sent post to Boston to make his Honor ye Goverur acquaint of there arrant, & if possible, they shall stop at Port Royalt to 256 ADMINISTRATION OF invite ye Boston Fleet along wth them. I hope being so urged by Major Winthrop at Boston as I understand, they will resolve to send forces by water, that ye Indians may have no cause to reflect agst ye promise of or comissioners made them, whC would not have been done had ye Gentlemn of Boston, not put us in hope of at there arrivall here. I thought convenient to advise you of the particulars so sone I was able, that you may take your measures, desiring earnestly to give me speedy & reall advise of your proceedings & progres in ye prsent warr if of consequence by post-having for present no more to inlarge, after Respects I remaine Sr Your Honrs most Humble Servant JAcOB LEISLER To the Honble Robert Treat Esqr Governor of his Maties Colony of Connecticutt These for their Maties Service P. S. Pray Sir give Rod Island advise off wath is herein mentioned en to send the inclosed post hast away for Boston; it is of greth concerne abouth the forces by watter, warfor the ar in greth longing as I am informeth JACOB L ESLEr "'MILBORINE TO LEISLER Albany May the 27th 1690, IIoN11B SR-Yours by Manning is received and perceive what hath passed in England, and for my coming downe, cannot be effected within so short time, therefore stay the ships for here is yesterday Jeannattie & Cristagie come wth an expresse from Arnout, and Sachem from Onondage yt ye ffrench send 4 of theire owne people, 4 of theire praying Indians as emissaryes, and 2 of our Indians, they bringwith them one Onandager, the other Cajogewcrt were returned from ffrance. Immediately they have sent a post from thence to Cajoeges & Sinnekes, to Oneyede and Macquaes land, besides this to us here, who desire two or 3 understanding men to comeyt speak ffrench forthwith, for they resolue not to speake wth the ffrench, nor listen to them or hold any consult till they arrive, LIEUT. GOy. TLTSR.RR. 257 advising us to be upon our guard, fearing they may be upon their March or some subtile designe on ffoot. Whereupon Mr pr Schuyler, Robert Sanders, Monsr Gawsheren, Jean Rose and two more, are this day dispacht wth enstruccons yt they hasten wth all possible speed, and animate the Indians (according to o' propositions) to treat them as Enemyes, either by securing them, wch if not practicable so to do & bring them hither, then to slay them out right, wch Cristagie and Jannetie are resolved on their parts, & hope ye rest will agree to it. Its believed that ye fErench Cap" who attacked Schanacktede is one of them and Lamberville wth some more noted persons, therefore this is of great import, wee have sent to ye Schackcooke Indians also to be ready & resolute, this day to double Or guards & place Capn Johnsons men without ye towne at Renslaers millo Wee have ordered the Maquaes to send out a band of men to ye Lake, to waite and watch if any motions should be made by ye ffrench. Lamentable it is that the Maryland & New England fforces do not come, so yt it is impossible to Know ye time of marcking, unless we go without them. *LEISLER TO GOV. TREAT. 169. 30. 3May, in Fort William HONNORABLE SER-Affter noon I gath a letter off Capt Milborne, Waroff Bovest is corn off, part thereoff being off suth greath moment, thought necesary to send to your Honour post away, that your ma also Juge the State en condition we leike to be in, iffwee doe not store en dispath away ower forces. I am now sending up a France prisoner, iff possible to haue him changed for one prist prisoner with the have addopted en he is a pest for vs mongs theme; pray send it post away forther, that all piple may have notise to be opon ther gard, affter min Respeckt I remaine-Honnorable Sr your Honours most Humble Sert. Superscribed JACOB LEISLER To the Honorable Robert Treat Esqr Governour of His Majesties Colony of Conneticott. These Post away, haste VOL. II. 17 QJ~f38 a~dADMINISTRATION OF THE SAME TO THE SAME A: 1690: 30 May in fort william HONORABLE sIR-yesterday was myn last by post sent so farrn as Standford directed to Captn: Selick to be forwarded by him. In answer of yours of the 15 inst & have sent your honor the agreement of our Indianes & the order to our vassalls, enclosed was one for Boston, Just now received another letter dated 27 instant Signed John Allan Secretary by order of the Governor & counsell In that of the 15 your honor makes mention of Major Generall winthrope as commander of your forces, If obtaineable, Seing you were dubious, I did not mention the lack I had of such noble and wordy persone, fearing with yourselves he should not be obtained about the particular disgust of Secretary Allan agt Mr. Millborne I thought it not worth my whill to take notice of; In answer of yours of the 27 we are glad that at last you have, seing the danger you were in with us, & resolved to assist usF when we were so resolutely advanced, in readiness to joine with our confederate Indians to defend and attack his Maties enimies the french and their adherents in our defence, and have joined with us2 in a firme unanimous result, to effect which wee had proposed and engaged on very unequall proportiones with us notwithstanding equally concerned in danger, never desiring to choose & commissionat the Major, but resolved that the second commander was to be putt in by Boston, for the new England forces In which we can resolve to no alteratione, the more because before I received any of yours, we have writt to our Commissioners and send up a Commission for Major in blank & ordered to fill it with such persone at Albany as they thought fitt, and proposed Capt. Jacob Millborne whom we know a foreseing prudent & couragious persone, but have noe newes of his acceptance, we hope he will accept & doubt not of his capacity and behaviour that he will draw the love of the souldiers & contribute what in him shall lye to oblige & agree well with the persone you shall be pleased to send, therefore desire that you may stand to our unanimous result & that we may be united, I assure your honor I shall contribute what in me lyes to unite, It is the opinion of our very Indianes that unity is our strenth, we rejoyce to LIEUT. GOoV LEISLER. 259 understand the victorious success of sir william ffips at the eastward, and pray God to bliss them & our forces, to day I have understood that in Maryland they have raised their forces but its feared (they being bare of cloathes) of their speedy coming there is demanded for cloathing 50 of them 100,000 lb. tobacce (except our messinger we have sent by, his urging may obtaine dispatch) here is arryvd a person from England by the way of Maryland who repoits that in plymouth he spoke at his departure with some master of ships & severall prisoners coming from Bsrite; that there was great preparatione made with eight stout men of warre to come to take new york & to make it strong, I hope upon notice of any allarum you will speedily & readily assist us I referre your honor further to my former & after my respects recommend your honor & counsell to the protection of Almighty God & remaine &c. P. S, One halff of the Indians are to march to Guadraqua [Cattaraqui] en make the canoes redi, the oder halff is to march the Canada path, Som ar arived there alredi, the will no doubt mak hast wen the heare off the departure off ower shipps en Sr William fip's victori, off with I have send advise. J. L, GOV. BRADSTREET TO LEISLER. Boston May 30th 1690 HoNoBEL Sa-Acording to ye agreemt made by y Comissioners of ye Colonies at their late meeting in yor City wee raised the number of souldiers on or part to be Provided & Sent butt when they were on their march towards Springfield wee were forced to Countermand them & Speed them away to ye Eastward to defend their Majties Subjects of the Provinces of Hampshire & maine against ye incursions of ye ennemy who upon ye Sixteenth instant did attack those Posted att Casco Bay, Kill'd and Captivated all ye persons there men women & children. They first surprised Six and twenty men who unwarily Issued out of ye garrison to looke after a p:son that was missing of these they killed twenty Weh were near a third Parte of ye whole number of men. The Ennemy then openly appeared, before ye fort & assaulted it by 260 ADMINISTRATION OF ye space of five days & being About two hundred french & three hundred Indians they made their approaches in A Trench & Putt so hard to fire ye fort by flaming Birch Rinds shott at it that on ye fifth day they forced them to surrender before we could have intelligence to relieve them The enemy are so fflushed att this Success that they Since have fallen on Welles & Kittery on Piscataqua. Upon wch ye Inhabitants of Or fronteer towns are so alarmed that we shall be obliged to dispatch four or five hundred horse & foott wCh are mostly them already engaged in defending those partes & pursuing ye ennemy to their head quarters If possible. Nevertheless we have ordered about sixty men for Albany. Sr Wm Phipps Arrived this day with ye Governor of Port Royall two Priests, & About Sixty Souldiers with their great gunns & Stores of Warr & other Plunder The Inhabitants have sworne Alegiance to King William & Queen Mary. The Fort demolished & their Crosses & Images Broken downe:June 24th: Sr Above is Copy of what wee were writeing at that time, The Reason of not sending till now was Extream Loathness not to write of or Complemt of men being forwarded to Albany &'tis so farr from it at last that wee feare ye great danger Dearefild ye fronteer town of Connecticot is in, will detaine Capn Colton with his sixty & odd men, in those Partes there being as much Likely hood of ye french falling on that place as on' Albany, butt we hope if it Please God to Bless our prsent Expedicon by Sea against Canada we shall find them worke att home. Between two & three thousand men will be needfull in ye designe which with many hundred wee are ffaine to Keep out in defence of ye Easterne Partes Doth to 0r great troubles hinder our sending to Hudsons river by Land and that Could not furnish Capn Mason with any who writte to us from nantaskett Intimateing he Could make no stay here. Wee shall not be ready this two or three weekes five Shipps of Warr being to be fitted besides victuallers ffire Shipps & Tenders butt Persons Seeme to be so generally Spirited that supose all Imaginable application will be made to forward ye undertaking. Collnel LIEUTo GOV. LEISLER. 261 Kendall is arrived Governr att Barbadoes from whence a Considerable ffleet is gone downe to attack St Christophers: We are glad to hear that ye Mary landers are in their way towards you & Connecticot Souldiers wth you, it will be of very great Concermt that you so farr gratifie them in their field officers as not to frustrate yr designe God gives Direcion & success in All: Sir Yor Friends & Servts (Signed) SIMON BRADSTREET Gon in Copy ye name of ye Councill. FRAGMENT OF A LETTER SUPPOSED FROM LEISLER TO CONNECTICUT, ABOUT JUNE 1690. * * * " should furnish them, but they rather take that for their excuse to goe home, yesterday they came before me all five in a mutinous way before the whole company threatening the next morning to lay doun their armes and desert the Kings garrisone, which in consideratione of new England I passed by & have proposed to send the bearer on purpose who is to bring me an answer that I may know if you please that I release them & list so many others for Connecticott collony account for the price agreed by the Committee, so I have listed five in the roume of the other five whereof I wished long since I had had your approbation I spoke with Mr Trobridge who advised me to keep this till I had your order I have writt you about the eight confined persones whom I have released upon their petitione, whereof the coppy is here enclosed, the sd confinement hes & now causes great quietness in the toun & country, some of the Inbabitants after the sd petitione left it to the counsell of warre who would not medle with it fearing to discontent some that were not at home & had not signed) but I took it upon myselfe & administered to them the oath & released them, severall of the s1 so confined thought themselves agrieved & desired the admittance to speake with me, whereof Capt Tuder thought himselfe the clearest, I represented to him that by the proclamationes they were hectord 262 ADMINISTRATION OF out of the late King James, that he remaines still affected to the papists saying he loved them so well as protestants that we were rebells, that he Iaught & relt at the companies & gave ill language to the Captn, that he appeared not in arms at the allarum,& suffered to be strained for of neglect to work at the forti ficationes whereby the people were discouraged that if that was not anough then I told him that he did contribute not with silver gold or pretious stones to erect a Jesuit Collidge in this Citty, but he with Judge palmer & Grahamn ofierred their sones to it who went daily twyce to be instructed by that hellish brude of Jesuits, without to able to draw on sole child more, do they expect no sallary which bring the greatest intrest of the late king securing his Raigne & the only way to bring in popry & that he had less cause to trust him in such tyme of warre, we find in one occasion he did not spare his owne sone, which caused him to blush & presently went to work to make the sd petition, I desire a full answer by the bearer & specially about the great gunnes at new haven, if we ma hahave them & upon what termes for their Mat63 use & desire with all opportunity, & desire you to commuaicate this to is s honor Governor Treat of whom also I beg for an answer, and after my respects I remaine &c,.-...~ -_ BY THE LIEVT GOVERNOR & COUNCILL &C. WHEREAS severall persones in a Seditious & rebellious maner have on the sixth instant resisted the Militia of the Citty of New York to obstruct & hinder the proclaiming of their orders to k'eep strict watch & proceed to compleat the fortifications of the sd Citty, by which we might be brought in a full posture to oppose any enemy agst his Matie King William threatning & giving out (according to an Intended plott discovered by a letter of Nicholas Bayard found & taken out of the hands of Mrs. Judith Bayard who was brought before the Councill, to rise & have the prisoners out of the fort, who with them disoun the laufulnes of the present Authority of this government under his Matie, which accordingly was done & attempted by them running in a full ryot to the sd LIEUT. G;OY. LEISLER. 263 Lievt Governor demanding the prisoners & said they would have them out of the fort, whereupon a great tumult was created & the Lievt Governors persone assau ted in the street, being by the sd Tyoters & seditious persones encompassed about, the intention of whom was to destroy his;persone & his Alaties Government In which tumult one John Crooke stroke the sd Lievt-Governor with his Coopers adze with a blow directed as intended to murder him, & severall blowes made by others, from which he defending himselfe ~was relieved by the souldiers of the fort & the Militia of the Citty, whereupon the Country came in armes by a- signe of allarum into the fort, which by God's blissing was the prevention of great bloodshed & destruction of his Maties Government And whereas parties relate reports of the Strenth of the late King James in Ireland, & take the opportunity of tyme by the March of our forces to Canada, to discourage the people & overturne the Government established by his Maties order, all which is pernitious & most dangerous agst his Matie King Williams peace croun & dignity whereupon some of the head leaders & the greatest disturbers are by the Militia secured in the fort to prevent further mischiefe And whereas some of them & others are fled & abscond themselves from the hands of Justice. These are therefore in his Matie King william's name to will requyre & command all & every of his Maties Justices of the peace Sheriffs Military officers & others within this province to take due care to seize secure or cause to be seized or secured the persones here undernamed & give account thereof to the Lievt Governor, the names of the persones are Tunis de Key, Jeremy Tothill, dennis Lambert, Edward Tailhor, Thomas Willett, daniel Whitehead, John Crooke, Elias Boiudinott, Thomas Wenham, William Tailyor, Lucas Kiersted, Brant Schuyler, Jacobus de Key, And all persons are hereby strictly commanded to keep his Maties peace & be obedient to the lawes & orders in the Government established and proclaixed as they will answer the Contrary at their utmost perills dated at fort William this 7th June 1690 Signed JACOB LEISLfE ~W64 ADMINISTRATION OF WHEREAS a proclamation of the 3d June 1689 was signed by the Inhabitants of this city well intentioned for his Matie by which having declared theire intention to preserve the fort & country & to surrender it to his Matie King William or order, his sd Matie having since ordered by his letter dated 29th July directed to us to take upon us the government till further order from him which is our intention so to doe being Informed of the troubles in Ireland, that the late King James hes there a considerable army, fearing that some forces of the enimies may be sent to invade this country to prevent such designer we thought fitt to renew the sd proclamatione & to have it signed of all the Inhabitants that shall be faithfull to his Matie King William that they may persist in theire designe to preserve the fort & City & to surrender it to his Matie or order to the exclusion of the late King James, to that purpose we injoyne all the Inhabitants of this City forthwith to appeare in fort william to declare their intention & give their signe of their fidelity with subscribing to this present with us declaring that the relinquant to this our order shall be deemed & esteemed enimies to his Majesty & country & shall be treated accordingly.o GIVEN &c this 7th of June 1690. Signed, JACOB LEISLER. BY THE LIEVT GOVERNOR. WHEREAS Samuel Walker with his brigantine is rideing by doctor Taylors in the East River, and there being suspition that le will breake bulk & Information being given in of several discourses spoken by his people by which sedition & disturbance could be created. These are therefore in his Maties Name to will & requyre you forthwith to goe on board of sd Brigantine & to bring the same to this port & bring the sd Walker compy & passengers before me with all papers you find in the sd brigantine, for doing whereof this shall be your speciall warrant Given under my hand & seale in fort William this 7th June 1690 &c. To Ensigne Joost Stoll & his Assistants. LIEUT. GOV. LEISLER; 265 Fort Wm 1690 June 17th WHEREAS substantiall Evidence apeared before me declaring that Jean Laforay a frenchman now in Custody was Condemned for murder at ye Towne of New Bristol and being oblidged to take care that ye Neighbouring Colonies shall not be injured by Covering any Prsons from ye hands of Justice These are In his Majties Name to Command you Mr Antony Low forthwth to receive on board your sloop ye sd Jean Laforay & him safely to Land at New Bristel in Plymouth Colony aforesd unto ye Magistracy thereof who are desired to satisfye you for your care & Expenses therein. GIVEN &c JACOB LEISLER *LEISLER TO GOV TREAT New York June 20th 1690 HoNBLE SR-Having considered the good successe of the gentlemen of Boston, and as I am enformed their great readinesse and encouragements to advance ye fforces by sea to Canada, whereby his Maties interest the Countreys benefit & ye destruccon of ye ffrench & their adherents in Canada may be advanced, I have wth advice of the councill, deliberated ye proposall of that excellent person Major Generall Winthrop, who if he pleaseth to accept of it, may be of great advantage to ye ends before named, to which purpose I have sent a blank commission to Albany according to ye result concluded at this City by ye severall commissionrs whereof your ready returne is expected, and those genta of Boston having desired the same, that you would please to communicate it, being the p.sent offer of Honble Sr Your ionbie friend & Servant JACOB LEISLER To the Honble Robt Treat Eqr Govr of his Maties Colony of Connecticutt 2W66 ADMINISTRATION OF New Yorke June 22d 1690. St —The Charecter which I have before received of you from Albany, and now more pticularly from Major Milborne doth itivite me to render you thankes for your readinesse and zeale in the managing anid assisting the designe on foot against the French, which I hereby desire you to persevere in, and what encourgemt I can afford you assure yourselfe shall not be wanting, being uiifch satisfyed with your frequent assistance in advising wth ye CommTissioners to whome I haue written farther thereof, I am Yor1 affectionate friend to serve you To Mr Dirck Wessells BY THE LIEVT GOVERNOR -& FORASMUCH as diverse souldiers have deserted his Maties service in the expeditione agt the french at Albany, having received the Kings pay & provisiones (without any Just reasone for soe doing) These are in his Maties name to requyre you to apprehend & bring before mex every such deserter that shall be found within this province-, that so they may receive condigne punishment & alI Officers Civill & Military are hereby conmmanded to assist you therein, ahd that no persons dare to cover, conceale, or comfort fiy- such disserter as they will answer the Contrary at their perill, "Gihi2' &c -New York June 23d 1690 To the:Cons-tables'of Westchester & Eastchester:Rey & bredfort. TO 0OL: GOOD IN MARYLAND Anno 1690: 27 June in fort William HONORABLE SIR-Yours by Mr pembruge & Mr Blackinston, is before me, my former being come to your honors hands, to which I referre you & to what further Mr Blackinston may informe your honor craving leave to add that we had compleat 400 men these seaven weeks with provisions & ammunition according to our abilities & finding the threatening dangers of the french to increase MiIEUTo. GOV. LEISLER. 267 Who incessantly' sollicite the Indian nationes whom through Gods providence & our commissioners vigilance were prevented & prevailed with to come to Albany the five nationes their kings & Chieftanes in person oh the third day of:May were assembled & proposed diverse articles unto themn which succeeded with ifitable returnes as by the proposalls & answers of the five nationes whereof the coppy is delivered to Mr Blackrinston to send to your honor, at the same tyme obtained a meeting of the -immissioners of Boston plymouth & -Connecticott collobi'es of new England to consiilt'what ought to be done, by them in soe necessary;a work, It was resolved that those of hnew England -should raise 355 mten & mahitain them at their own cost & charges, and the province of newyork 400: of Maryland we had your honors promise & the comrittie result of a 100 men which we have expected long since upon Marylands cost & charges being the like concerned with us to gaine the five nationeso. with whom we are all in a firme confederacies we have sent your honor "by Mr pembrock our result wherein Maryland is expressed, & by all the large promises from new England & Maryland expected, the respective numbers which are so much waited for, the Ihdiaanes havirng assured us of 1800 men to joineto our assistance aiow redy to march in the franch territories to prevent their as'ults, having fresh hewes of great preparationes those of Canada &iGe making to attack us, of which all we have given notice to his Matie, & when we propose anything to the Indianes we always insert Maryland & give them for that province presents of belts of wampums & others, & if not since some soudiers appeare from Maryland, we shall be disabled to performe what we have promised to them iri the behalfe of your province, the integrity of those heathens we have great reason to depend on by severall proofs already given us, vizt: their killing diverse of their kindred which were subjects to the french King &c. taking & killing severall frenchmen of which they have presented us with three, but what is most remarkable is the understanding by our agents at onondago, messengers were expected thro the severall nationes from the Governor of Canada to seduce them from their contracts made with us which by the instructions & memories of a french knight here now -268 ADMINISTRATION OF prisoner doth appeare, who was sent with four other french & ffour Indianes which had been carried captives to france in tyme of peace & now returned to Albany, otherwayes to treat them as enimies to the croun of England, which as soon as they came was effected with all imaginable vigor, the five nationes being mett by their chiftaines togither at onondago afore sd which is their court seized them & bound them instantly spoiling them of all their moneys presents & what they had, dividing four frenchmen amongst them to be treated in their barbarous manner & the knight being prin1l agent with his papers was sent to us, we found a Jesuite letter to a prisoner Jesuit amongst the Indianes wherein we discover treasonable correspondance is keept by some at Albany with french, our ship brigantine & sloope of warre is departed one month agoe & have been at Boston to visite them, who I understand makes great preparationes for Canada, Mr Blackinstone will acquaint your honor of the success they had at port royall, they gott about 30,000: lb about our messinger from England who was onely sent to deliver my letters in the hand of his Matie which was effected & caused great alteratione in the proceedings of our enimies, ofwhich Mr Blackinston hes a full accompt & hes promised to participate your honor with, to which I refere you, yesterday we have sent Mr Benjamin Blagg for our agent to his Matie & within a weeke we shall send Major Jacob Millborne for another to joine the former, we are of your opinion of the necessity there of our adversaries aryving before our messinger, made their advantages our former pacquets being taken per the french, I desire you to take notice what hes passed, newes arryves here King James forces in Ireland hold ground, his Matie dissolving the parliament &c, too many evill mynded persones prevaill therein had given such unexpected life & vigour to the party within this citty, that on the sixth day of June instant a rout of thirty odd persones appeared in the street & assaulted my persone, one particularly striking at me with a coopers adze refusing to pay the tax which was laid by an assembly fairly elected to maintaine & support the charges of this warre, demanding certane malefactors to be released from prisone in a most audacious maner, but I striking with the head of my cane in the LIEUT. GOV. LEISLER. 269 teeth of tuo who let louse my suord which I drew & so made my way through them, the tuo coppies of the evidences enclosed of which there is more will give your honor a full light of the sd ryott, twenty odd were imprisoned & fined & bound to their good behaviour, twelve have complyed ten will not & remaine prisoners by all which your honor may see if they could but have the power what party they effect, & that we should be reduced to our former state, every wind that blowes favorably on King James part raises their billowes I referre your honor further to what Mr Blackinston informes you & after my respects &c. *LEISLER TO TREAT. 1690. 30. June in Fort Wm HONORABLE SIR-My last to your Honor was the 20. Instant, delivered by our messinger to Major Gold, which he tells me was immediately dispatched. I had expected an answer before now; It is high tyme to betake them to the March, wee have been most this two moneths compleat with 300 men & in expectation of Boston & Plymouth forces, to raise the rest af Albany in three dayes, yours I understand are arryved there; I was put in hopes by one of your letters, that you intended to make the number to 200 Englishmen. Just now I received a letter from our Commismissioners of Albany, that one Mohack credible messinger is arrived the 22. Instant in Albany, he brings for certaine news, that the 18th Instant arryved one Mohack Indian at Onondagus, who was deserted from the French armey & left them in a great number upon the Lake Sambele, headed by the Governour in person, comeing for Albany, and that the Army departed from Canada the 8th Instant. Yesterday I had the French Knight by me, who told me in discourse, that he admired that the French & wee were of one opinion, that this wholl most belong either English or French & that we tooke one & the same course with them; that they expected ten or twelve men of warr, which probably might be there before now, and he was certaine that so soone as they arryved, that their army would come by land & send their fleet by water, & that it would be a brave sport if they 270 ADMINISTRATION OF should meet one another, & that their Ships should come with Bombs, & he believed they would give us much work, and if we had them it should be before August:-The day after we gott the newes, which makes me believe it may be so; wee are ready for them & hope at Albany they will behave themselves as men & let not one escape. I hope Major Winthrope is departed for Albany, which I should be glad to understand by one express yea or noe; the ships Brigantine & sloope I understand are departed from Boston to their intended expidition for Canada three weeks ago without any company from Boston, they not being ready. If any newes, I desire your Honor to participate us with having for present noe more to enlarge, after my Respects I remaine your Honors most Humble Servt JACOB LEISLEI Superscribed To the Right Honble Robert Treat Governour of the Collony of Connecticott These. wth care LEISLER TO HIS COMMISSIONERS AT ALBANY. A 1690 Ist July In Fort william GENTLEMEN-Yesterday was my last to which I Referr you, You have Referred us to ye Messengers who brought our letter but we cane understand nothing of them my opinion Is they came here to consult with there parties If they may safely Receive a Commission of mee what alteration in your place, there Coming here may cause us, the time will learne, beshure they are not well Tutered & keept from us I have writt you our meaning which we hoop you may be able to observe touching the major, Inclosed is a copy of a Letter Received of Governour Treat which I perceive was lifft upon the table wherein the major is absolutely Refused If Boston & Connecticut sends not their Compliment Ingaged In ye Result & approved by ye government they Brook ye Covenant & we are not obliged to any article LIEUT. GOV. LEISLER. 271 therein the Barers are made sensible yt what we propose about ye Councill of Warr yt the Capn by Turnes Every week should bee president In said Councel and so in gods name go one without a major-Except Capn Browne accepts of ye place but no other whatsoever-Except Machususatts, Plymouth & Connecticutt Colonyes Comply fully with there promise ye ffrench Knight begins to be moved of [our] march and desires to prevent ye cruelties of our Indians against ye ffrench wimens and children which Indied would bee generous if possible It could be prevented we have send Mestr Stole who has a speciall maxim to gaine the people & is able to assist you much in forwarding y, Business and if he should go he most be commissionated he is true, full mettall able and politique the news of Colonell Slayter is quitt vanised It would not hould-1we have gott yesterday the Inclosed nues from neu England En send It for the Evefi drecktet als the copie, to day the 25 I gott the Inclosed from Southampton I wish Ensign Stole was heer En Iff possible also Major Milborn we expeckt the franch ships heer the messenger rports the ar all ship, pray God to grand & give vs courage to resist them after min respects I remain Srs Your reall frind to serve your JAcoB LEISLER J.ddresed, To T he Honoble The CommissionrS Capn John De Bruyn, Mr Johannes Provoost and Major Jacob Milborne Esqrs In Albany LEISLER TO THE GOV. OF BERMUDAS. Albye de 8 July In forth William. R HoNNOR " SR-"Your Letter off the 12 June I have receuet also the 10 Barrils Pouder with Cold not haue been disposed off heer being feri Cors Canon Pouder one offit being feri wek the rest for that sort feri goed with I haue receuet In the fort for his Maiestes Eus, being feri muth obliged for your honnors Kare by I From this mark to the end is in Leisler's handwriting. ~272 ADMINISTRATION OF with you haue largly Tistified your zeale to ther Maieste Service. En your affectioned kaindnes to the Honnor Interest En Welfar off this his Maieste province their Maieste Concell heer Joyne with me in the retorne off ouer most harty tanks to your for this your Kare an Testemony off Kindnes to this governement with Is also a reall Service to their Maieste En I assure you both 1 and the Consull will be glat off one oportunite to retorne ouer gratefull aknoledgmt to you for it Inclosed Is a bill off Loding En Invoice of 32 halff Barills goed foer weigs according the Inclosed Invoice with was all we Cold get fright for It Is shipt for the Province risco En accound your honnor Is desired to Cas the same to be Disposed to ther most advantage En to Satisfay your selbst En what ma be wanting shall be footh with send your honnor the Barer being Intend to retorne Spedely with whome your honor It hartely Desierd to to send vs the other 10 Baril off them your honnor Mention whe ar present Ingaget In an acktuell whar whit the French off Cannade war we have send one arme off 1800 Indians En 600 Christian beseits one Esquader by See by with we Spend a greath dell off amonition the Small Bermoedes Sloop. with whe have Commandet for his Maiestes vs to going with ouer Esquader for to allarme Cannadee by water will we shall plas God atak them by land has In the mouth off Canadee river ficht En taken a ship off abouth 300 tons montet with 10 gons Loaden with salt En fish the said Esquader have Destroit port royall St John Whar the have taken a Ship mor with 10 gons 2 kuthes one Bark all ritchly Loaden In the ship whas the fransh Kings store off amonition En other abilemens off whar Clods for the soldier whe haue been a will pestert oppon this Cost with severall fransh wessell who Comitet severall outrages wherby whe have ben allarmed till whe wher Informet off ther strengt when whe haue sent out a squader En Cleerd the Cost whe where also obliged to make one Imbargo for severall resons with still Continues only noo having gath In the Crop the Cost being Clerd ouer arme opon the march Boston having mad one Imbargo opon forfeitur off Uessels an Cargo till xd Considering the Dependence severall off maiestes government have opon vs En Boston whe have se Cas to give liberte for som wessells En specialy to suth that have ben fre to render his Maieste LIEUT, GOV,, LEISLER, 2 73 service In this province for there suply off with the Barer has ben one Sr what I have to ad Is my very harty & affectiond service to you En to assure you that I ame with all respeck Ionnord Ser Your most obliget & most humble servant MAJOR MILBORN AND THE REST OF THE GENTLEMEN AT SCHANHECJHTADE. This afternoon Three of our folks arrived here from Canida who escaped from there; namely, Klyn Isack, the Son of Ryck Classen, and one of Capt Boll's Soldiers. They report having been 24 days on the road, and the Soldier twenty six days from Monrojael, They say that Monrojael is not very strongly garrisoned, though they fear nothing and think little of us. Nevertheless the Soldier or Englishman would very gladly attack it and is inclined to accompany our people and gives us great encouragement, that the opportunity is favorable. The French abstain from talking before prisoners & say they have heard little or nothinc from the Port rojael Expedition or of the Indian fight on the Lake We further refer to the Enclosed to Arnout Cornelissen. We think it right if your Honors consider that Arnout Cornelissen is gone, that it should be sent after him by an Indian in order to communicate this news to the Indians. Wherewith, after salutation we remain, Your friends This 9 July Ao 1690. In Albany. J. BRUYN JOHANNES PROVOOSr Laurents or Jannetie the Indian with his party urge us very hard not to omit reminding the Gentlemen again to admonish the Indians at Schanhechtade not to let the French prisoners go out with them to fight, for we have an example now in our own people who have run away from Canada, and that they should be disarmed. VOL, 11. 18 274 ADEINISTRATION OF BY THE LIEVT GOVERNOR. WHEREAS Peter Dumont Andrew ffalourdell & Michaell Anthony of Queens County on Long Island, have committed high misdemeanours agt their Maties authority in this Province, As by Substantiall evidences ag' them appearesThese are in his Maties King Williams name to will & requyre you to apprehend the bodies of the sd peter dumont Andrew ffalcourdell & Michael Anthony wheresoever they are to be found & in what places soever they may be suspected the same to breake open or by any other violence to make way to them, In case of resistance or concealment & their sd bodies before me bear or cause to be brought & all whom shall oppose or any wayes resist or endeavour to conceall them & all officers both Military & Civill are hereby strictly requyred to aide & assist you therein as they will answer the contrary at their outmost perills. GIVEN &c this 18th of July, 1690. JACOB LEISLER To the Sheriff of the Kings & Queens County & all other the Counties within this province. BY THE LIEVT GOVERNOR &c. WHEREAS I have undoubted Information that some vessells on this Coast do commit outrages & fearing that the same might fall on the toune of Southold These are in Maties name to will & requyre you Major Thomas Lawrence to command & for their Maties service to press Seaventy men horse & foot as you shall think fitt all well armed & when occasione shall requyre for their Maties service to press fresh horses & what else you shall have occasione for as for their entertainment & provisions & other necessaries & them forthwith to dispatch for Southold to the assistance & defence of their Maties Subjects there wherof you are not to faill at your outmost perills & all officers Military & Civill & others of what rank & quality are strictly required to obey you therein & be aiding & LIEUT. GOY. LEISLER. 275 assistant to the sd forces in performing the premisses as they will answer the Contrary at their utmost perills. GIVEN &c fort William in New York this 19t day of July &c 1690. JACOB LEISLER *i Here follow Commissions, dated 23d July 1.690, to Captn Christopher Goffe of the ship Catherine; to Capt Philip Philips of the Bregantin Another to Capt John Weyman & a fourth to Capt Richd Moon to cruise along the Coast, and endeavor to Capture several fiench vessells in the sound and about Block Island which are committing outrages on his Maties subjects "and have already taken two vessells belonging to this port & severell others &c,:: " so that no vessels can budge" BY THE LIEVT GOVERNOR &C New York WHEREAS I am credibly informed by evidences before me that five armed french men are seen on Schutters Island well armed and having watch out on trees & being assured that peter deumont & Andreu ffallourdell are amongst them who are accused before me of high Misdemeanour which persones are fled out of this province from the hands of Justice These are therefore in his Maties name to will & require all persones within this province & to desire all persones within the neighbouring Collonies of New Jersey & pensilvania to secure the sd five persones & them safely to convey before me at fort William that they may answer for their crymes & care shall be taken for satisfaction of the reasonable charges in fulfilling of the premises. GIVEN &c. 21st of July 1690. JAxOB LEISLER To the Constable of Elizabethtown & so forewardo 276 ADMIINISTRATION OF GOV. TREAT TO LEISLER. HONBLE SIR-Just now received the enclosed from NewLondon & have sent it to you for your perusall also, it was but last night one Captain Swinton cald in with about ten men with him bound towards n. London with his Sloop & company, Sd to have your orders to discover & attacque the enemy, but I saw non, however for any care of our or countrys saftie in a time of need wee would take all due notice thereof, sir it seems to be a tyme of great need & if it be within your compass to add such further strenth by more shiping & vessels of force that may be able to encounter them & with Gods blessing to expell if not conquere them which would be a service to God our king & county, never to be forgotten, or if need should be of some hands or land souldiers rather than fail I hope they may be found but what is done need be done wth all expedition, Sir I cannot but again acquaint you with our extreme need of powder in our collony I pray faill not to sell & send us 3 or 4: or if not so much one or two barrells of powder at least & you shall be payed to content the above Sd Captain of your sloope desired me to certifie your honor of their great diligence to gett along the wind & weather being agt them. and just as they came in some intelligence also made as if the enemies & vessells were bound out to sea but its rather thought they waite to doe more mischiefe Sir shiping or amunition is not wth us but if some force from you should meet wt them from Boston it might be a singular oportunity but we shall doe what wee can by land to discover & opose and according to their further motions shall not be wanting to acquaint your honor there with which is all at present that tyme allows me to ad & with all due respects shall subscribe Sir your loving friend & neighbour Millford the 22th ROBERT TREAT of July 1690 LIEUT. GOV. LEISLER. 277 TO YE HONOBLE JACOB LEISLER ESQR-LT GOVERNOR & THE HONOBLE COUNCILL. The humble Peticon of Christopher Goff humbly sheweth, That yor Peticonr & Prisonr being secured in ye port for Severall words spoken by your Peticonr ye wch as your Peticonr as being in drincke does not Remember but nevertheless humbly beggs Pardon for ye Same desyring that yor honners be pleased to have Compassion wTth your Peticonr he being a poor seafaring man and that your honners be pleased to consider him by Diminishing of ye fine adjudged agst him & that he may be sett at Liberty & your Peticonr shall ever Pray &c CHRISTOPHER GOFFE Endorsed, Present Lt Govr; P D Lanoy Sam Edsall Benjn Blagge Hendk Jansen-Robt Walters aid, agreed that in stead of fiveteen p he shall pay but seaven pound ten shill A. G. BY THE LIEVT GOVERNOUR N York, WHEREAS it is judged necessary & accordingly ordered that ye ship Cathrin ChristopherGof Comandr ye Brigantine John & Joseph Jno Wayman Comandr & Sloop Content Richd Moone Comandr be Imediately made ready & Equipped for his Majties Service agst some french vessells on this Coast & ordered that sd vessells be aprised together wth ye goods not unloaden out of ye same, These are in his Majties name to will & Require you & each of you forthwith to repaire on board sd vessells & ye same to apraise together wth ye Remaining Part of there Loading & bring Report thereof to me upon your oaths for doing whereof this shall be to you & every of you a Spetiall Warrt GIVEN under my hand & Seale at fort Wm This 24th July in ye Second year of their majties Reign 1690 JACOB LEISLEB To Capn Isaac Stevense Past ye office Capn Robt Sinclaer & niclaes Gerritse Abraham Gouverneur Wm Dearing & Jno. Dissington D. Secry 278 ADMINISTRATION OF It is the Judgment of the underwritten By a warrent derected to ouss that The Shipe Catren aught hundred pound & twenty ~820:00 The Sloop Content wallued seven hundred pound 700:00 The Brigtine John & Joseph wallud to: sex hundred 600:00 pound...... o...... o. o9 o o.......... RoBt SINCLAER ISAAC STEVENSE WILL. DEARING NiCHS GERRITSE JOHN DISSINGTON ye abouenamed Apraisors ware sworne befour mee this 25th of July 1690 SAMUfzEL EDSALL Councill. Endorsed, Warrt & returne of ye aprismt of ye Ship Cataryn Sloop Content & Brigantine John & Joseph Dated 24th June 1690 BY THE LIEVT GOVERNR & WHEREAS Joseph Hegeman of flakbush In Kings County on Long Island has spoken Several Seditious words agst his Majtie Governmnt In This Province These are in his Majtics [name] to will & require you to bring ye body of sd Joseph JHegeman before myself & Council to answer for ye same for doeing whereof These are yor spetial warrt GIVEN &c New York this 29th July 1690 JACOB LEISLER To Meindert Coerten Esq High Sheriff of ye Kings County on Long Island to bring ye Returne thereof on Thursday next LIEUT. GOV. LEISLER, 279 BY THE LIEV'V GOVERNR WHEREAS Gerrit Elbertse Stoothof Lievt of ye troop of horse of Kings County on Long Island has in a Contemptuous manner denied ye Comand of his Captn Roelof Martense Schenck Espetially when ye enemies where Invading & Comitting severall outrages on this Coast by wch it evidently appeares ye sd Garret Elbertse Stoothof lies ill affeccon to this his Majties Governmt & is not to be trusted in Comand:These are therefore towill and require you in his Majties name to dismis & discharge the sd Lievt of having any further Comand of sd troop of horse & to deliver my Comission for Lievt to Pieter Jansen of Brookland for doing whereof these are yor sufficient Warrt GIVEN &c this 29th July 1690 JACOB LEISLcK. To Major Gerardus Beekman Esqr Albany July 31 1690 ARTICLES made agreed upon considered between John De Bruyn John Provoost & Jacob Melbourne Commissioners appoynted by the honble Levt Governor Jacob Leisler & Councill for the province of New Yorke of the one part, and the honble John Winthrop Esqr of the other part witnesseth — That the sd John Winthrop Esqr do receive a commission from the sd Lievt Governor to command in Chiefe all the forces now raised or to be raised for the Expedition of Albany agt the french at Canada, within the province of New York & the Collonies of New England etc. under certane conditions following vizt:That the sd Lievt Governor for himself or any deputed or empowered by him or by his means shall at no tyme or tymes hereafter issue forth or cause to be sent after or impose on the sd Commander in Chiefe any order or orders direction or directions tending to any contradicting or repugnant to the true intent & meaning of the sd commission or the result which was concluded by the sd commissioners convened at New York May the first last past 280.ADMINISTRATION OF That the sd Commissioners doe further promise and engage for and on behalf of the sd Lievt Governor Leisler that the sd Commission by him granted unto the sd Commander in Chiefe shall be acting & executing or performing the true intent & meaning thereof agt the french & adherents. That the sd forces shall be no otherwise employed but directly agt the french & their adherents of Canada. That the sd Commander in Chiefe shall as much as in him lyes; execute all acts of hostility agt and to destruction bring the french kings subjects & all that joind with them, pursuant to his Maties King Williams declaration of warr agt the french king & nation. That all matters of great concernment be concluded by a councill of warr consisting of the Commander in Chiefe with the rest of the commission officers or soe many of them as can conveniently meet together. That no more officers shall be commissionated than now are or shall be at the tyme of marching the wholl boddy of the forces, unless occasioned by death or impotence whereby they cannot perform their duty; then such places are to be supplied by commissiones from the sd Commander in Chiefe which shall be as authentiq to all intents constructions and purposes, as if such had been granted actually by the sd Lievt Governor, or the honble the Governor of Connecticutt collony, unless extraordinary occasion ariseth from detachments etc. That the Commission granted by the Lievt Governor Leisler shall preside & superintend all other commissions instructions or orders relating to the said forces which are or shall be under the conduct or command of the Sd Commander in Chiefe during the expedition aforementioned. That all plunder and captives (if it so happen) shall be divided amongst the officers & souldiers according to the custome of warr. That all officers & souldiers (if it please God to grant victory) shall be returned to their respective homes equally and impartially as shall consist with martial right & possibility. That all possible dispatch be made with the forces before the Indians be constrained to object agt our delays which endanger this undertaking LIEUT. GOV. LEISLER. 281 That the honor & service of God be maintained & divine worship be performed publickly every day, the Lords day duly observed) vice discountenanced & due decorum preserved amongst theme ffinally that the Sd Commander in Chiefe shall [have] power to administer doe execute & performe all matters relating [to] life or other censures (as the caise shall or may require) with as ample power & virtue, & in mannar form & purpose as any field marshal] may or ought to doe with a regular army or greater body of men,*LEISLER9S COMMISSION APPOINTING JOHN WINTHROP TO BE COMMANDER OF THE FORCES AGAINST THE FRENCH. Jacob Leisler Esqr Lut Govr & commander in Chiefe of the Prouince of New Yorke and dependencies in Americah, under His most Sacred Matie King Wm1 of England, Scotland, France & Ireland &c, defender of the fayth, supreme Lord of the Sayd province & dependencies in America, &c. To the Honble John Winthrop Esqr Greeting. By vertue of the authority deriued unto me, I do hereby constitute & appoynt you to be major of all the forces now raysed or to be raysed for the expedition of Albany out of this Province & the New England Collonyes & Maryland, according to the unanimous result made with sayd Collonyes against the French at Cannada; you are therefore carefully and dilligently to discharge the duty of a major, by exerciseing the same in Armes & keeping them in good [SEALL] order & discipline, both officers & Souldiers, observing strictly all the articles in the sayd result expressed, hereby willing & commanding them to obserue & follow such orders & directions as you shall from time to time receiue from me or any appoynted by myself & councill according to the rules & discipline of war, pursuant to the trust reposed in you & to execute all acts of hostility against the French King his Subjects & their adherents; and this commission to continue dureing my will & pleasure only 282 ADMINISTRATION OF Given under my hand & sealed with the seale of the prouincec this 31. July in the 2d year of their Maties Reigne 1690Past the Office JACOB LEISLER Jacob Milborne Secry BY THE LIEVT GOVERNOR &E. WHEREAS ye Sessions of the Gene1l Assembly held at New Yorke for the said Province on ye 24th of Aprill Last was by my Selfe with advice of my Councill Prorogued vntill the first day of Septr next. These are Therefore in his Majtic8 King William's name to will and require all & every of the members thereof to Appeare in this Citty of New Yorke on the ffirst day of Septr next according to Prorogation without any faile or Delay as they tender his Majties Intrest & the safety of this Province. GivEN &c this 9th of August 1690. JACOB LEISLER To ye Justices of ye Severall Counties of this Province. BY THE LIEVT GOVERN1 &c; WHEREAS Nathaniel Person being chosen in yor County one of their Reprsentatiues who appeard at the Sessions of the Getnl Assembly held in this Citty on ye 22th Aprill Last & then & theire refused to sit & Act as one of the Representatives afores4 These are Therefore in his Majties King William's Name to will & request you to make Choice of an other Proper & fit pson in Stead of him the said Nathaniel Pearson to Sitt with the representatives In Generall Assembly on ye first of September next & here of you are not to faile as you will answer the same att your utmost Perill. GIVEN &c this 11th August &c 1690 JACOB LEISLER To the Civill and Military offices and other ye Inhabitants of Queens County, LIEUT. GOY. LEISLER. 283 BY THE LIEVT GOVERNR WHEREAS Mr Wilhelmus Beekman Senior was Chosen one of the Representatives of your Citty & County who by Reason of his Old Age & other Bodyly Infirmytys Excuses himselfe from the said servis not attending the same These are Therefore in his Majtics King William's Name to will and requier you to make choice of an other Proper & fitt Person in Stead of sd Beekman to sitt with the representitives in Generll Assembly on the first of Septr next & hereof you are not to faile at your utmost perills. GIVEN &c this 11th August 1690 JACOB LEISLER To the Mayr & Aldermn of ye Citty of N York [Here follows an order in same style & of same date to the Inhabitants of the County of Westchester to elect a Representative to the Genll Assembly in Place of Thomas Browne who had deceased since the last session] BY THE LIEVT GOVERNOR WHEREAS by the Charter of privilege granted to the Inhabitants of this province It was Enacted that two Representatives should be Chosen by the Inhabitants of the Citty & County of Albany & one by the Inhabitants of the toun of Skenectadie in the sd County And whereas John Janse Bleecker was chosen fer the sd Citty & County of Albany & Ryer Schermerhoon for the toun of Skenectady & so is wanted for the sd City & County. These are in his Maties King William's name to will & requyre you to make choise of one more proper & fitt persone to appear to this Citty of New York on the first of september next to sitt with the other representatives of this province in generall Assembly & hereof you are not to faill at your perills. GITEN &c this 13th August &c 1690 JACOB LEImSLER To the Civill & Military officers of the Citty & County of Albany. 284 ADMINIS'RATION OF *SECY ALLYN TO LT GOV LEIESLER Hartford Aug. 23d 1690. HoNBBLE SR-By intelligence we haue from the Major Gen1 Winthrop from Wooden Creek, we understand to our great griefe, that the armies march towards Canada though advancd far, is all retarded by the faylure of the Indians to accompany them and furnish them with Cannoes (which account he had from your Commissioners at Albany) we suppose you cannot but haue a full accot of the whole of that matter and whither it will admit of any timely cure so as may render our forces seruiceable at this juncture we fear much. It was much our hopes that the Bay hauing set out soe braue a Fleet who sayled this day fortnight that the forces from Albany would haue happily had, & given advantage to the fleet. But we must subscribe to the pleasure of God herein If any means could yet be used by alarmeing the French (if we can attayne to no better) to giue the fleet the less trouble at Quebeck; it seems to us aduisable to doe it; but if your Honr see not any thing likely to be done from Albany by our forces that is considerable, we would understand it, that we may know what to doe with our souldiers, for the sicknesse being so rife at that place it seemes not aduisable to let them lye there; we haue written to the Govr of Boston, giuing him the accot we haue of these matters, & to haue their aduice, & the same we desire of yor Honr we wave any thing as to priuate persons discontents, sane that Ensign Stedman hath had as kind usage as he deserued & we hope your Honor will not espouse such interests against vs, as we haue not done against yourselfe. Incenderies are great hinderers of publique vnion & action. We are glad to hear of Capt Masons & the other Capts success, who we are informed came in at Nantaskett with seuerall good prizes on the 17th Instant; we haue agreed with the gentI of Boston to send our letters & what we haue from yourself for them to Springfield, whence it is theire care to have them passed to Boston, & they send to Hartford, and we are to post what is for your Honr through to your first towne vizt Rye where you are desired to give order that it be speeded to you, & what you send this way send it to Stanford to Lut Bell, to whome we LIEUT. GOVT LEISLER. 285 shall write to forward it as directed, & please if you agree to this way of posting, to signify what person at Rye you will haue the letters for you deliuered unto-We haue not to ad but Respects, & that we are your affectionat neighbours The Governour & Councill of Connecticutt pr their order Signed pr JoHN ALLYN, Secy Postscript. Sr we are sending Mr John Thompson to Albany with prouisions for or Souldiers7 we request you to grant him liberty to pass & repasse as formerly pr order J. A- SO Superscribed ffor the Honble Jacob Leisler Esqr Lut Govvernour of their Maties Prouince of New Yorke in New Yorke-This For His Maties Seruice. Hast, post Hast,. JOURNAL of Captain John Schuyler who voluntarily embarked at Wood Creek on the 13th August 1690, with 29 christians and 120 Savages, whom he recruited at Wood Creek as volunteers under his command to go to Canida to fight the enemy. Nearly about the swamps I met Captain Sander Glen on his way back to Albany, because the greatest number returned. The aforesaid Sanders had in his company 28 whites and 5 savages and came from Tsinondrosie where Captain Sanders had been waiting 8 days for the whole corps.-From these Captain John Schuyler enlisted 13 whites and 5 savages to continue with Captain Schuyler the voyage to Canida and their to fight their mutual enemy. When the rest of the company had left us, and we had advanced nearly two hours on our voyage, we found 2 canoes which had been sent out to spy and which had shot an elk.-After we had done eating and had supplied our canoes we proceeded on our way as far as Canaghsionie.The 15th day of August we came one Dutch mile above Crown Point. 286 ADMINISTRATION OF The 16th ditto we had advanced as far as Kanondoro, and resolved at that place to travel by night and have that night gone onward to near the spot where Ambrosio (?) Corlaer is drowned, and there one of our savages fell in convulsions, charmed and conjured by the devil, and said that a great battle had taken place at Quebeck (Cubeck) and that much heavy cannon must have been fired there, and that one hundred canoes with savages had come down the river from Cadaraqui. (Coederoqua.) And about one hour after sunrise we have gone to Oghraro, where I placed the first guard and nominated Barent Wemp as officer of the guard. The 17 ditto in the evening we proceeded to Ogharonde. A Tsenondoga savage of our Company died there; he died of sickness; the Oneida savages gave a wampum belt for the atonement of the dead. That day Capt. Schuyler with his subaltern officers and the Chief of the savages resolved where they should make their attack upon the enemy, and they determined by the majorities to fall upon fort La Prairie (Lapplarie); whereupon the Mohawks gave a wampum belt to the Schaghkock savages as a token to stand by each other faithfully, and what they do call "onroghquasa In a Goera'.-The Oneida savages did the same to the Mohawk savages by some handful of wampum, and in this manner this resolution was decidedly agreed upon and confirmed with shaking of hands (kinsekaje) as well by the christians as by the savages, and, moreover, approved by the savages as to whom should be their chiefs or headmen, — Carristasio and Tehoesequatho and Juriaen the ferocious. The 18 ditto, set out in the evening, and about midnight we saw a light fall down from out the sky to the South, of which we all were perplexed what token this might be. The 19 ditto on account of the strong wind we laid still because we could not proceed and we were laying about 3 miles above the Sandbank of Chambly. The 20 ditto we sent out spies along the west side of the river Chambly and found there a drawing of a party from Canada and 14 palisades to which they had bound their prisoners whom they had fetched from New England. LIEUT. GOV. LEISLER. 287 The 21 ditto we proceeded to about one mile below the above mentioned sandbank of Chambly, when we again sent out spies, who discovered some places where french and savage spies had been keeping double night watch, and that the same had embarked for Chambly. Then, after having first placed our canoes and provisions in safety, The 22 ditto we pursued our journey by land and travelled that day close under La Prairie-the road being very difficult on account of the softness of the clay, over which we had to travel, so that two of our christians returned to our canoes. Coming through the clay we heard much firing of musketry, of which we were astonished what it might be. The 23 ditto in the morning I sent spies towards the fort to see how it was; returning said all the folks were leaving the fort of La Prairie to cut corn.-Then we resolved in what manner we should hinder them to obtain the fort again, and agreed to do so by intercepting them on their way to the fort, but by the eagerness of the young savages such was prevented, because christians as well as savages fell on with a war cry which displeased the officer that they fell on without orders having been given, but they made 19 prisoners and 6 scalps, among which were 4 womenfolk. The first prisoner was examined, asking him, what the firing of yesterday at La Prairie signified? said, the Governor is yesterday gone away with 800 men and the people discharged their muskets at their departure because their scouts had not heard from us. Then we fell upon their cattle, we pierced and shot to death nearly 150 head of oxen and cows, and then we set fire to all their houses and barns which we found in the fields, their hay, and everything else which would take fire.-Then we christians resolved to fall upon the fort, but could not move the savages to give their consent to help us to attack the fort; the fort fired alarms when Montroyal and Chambl6 answered, so that we resolved to depart with the prisoners to Albany. A savage of ours was stabbed to death, whom we burned in a barn, and we went that day 7 Dutch >miles on our way back. Then the savages killed 2 trench prisoners because they could not travel on account of their wounds.-A little while after this we sat down to eat and thanked the Governor 288 ADIINISTRATION OF of Canada for his salute of heavy cannon during our meal-they fired from the morning till 2 o'clock in the afternoon from all three of the forts.-That day we travelled to the river Chambly where our canoes were laying. The 24 ditto we went as far as fort Lamotteo The 25 ditto we reached the Sand point, where we shot 2 elks. The 26 ditto we came to the little stone fort, and from there sent a canoe with men to Albany to bring the news of what had happened to us. The 27 ditto we proceeded to Canaghsione and there shot 9 elks. The 28 ditto we reached Wood Creek. The 29 ditto we have travelled to the little Rapid above Saraghtoge. The 30 ditto of August we have arrived at Albany, under the command of Captain John Schuyler. A true copy from the translation in the collection of Manuscripts of the New Jersey Historical Society, at Newarkl, S. ALOFSEN, M/ember H. Soc. N. J. *SEC'Y ALLYN TO LEISLER. Hartford Sept, 1st 1690 HON-LE SIR-By an express from our Captaines at Albany of the 27th August last, we are certifyed that the Major Genll Winthrop is made a prisoner, and that on our officers request to the Comanders of the fort for his liberty to officiate in the army, yor selfe being present at Albany, thair answer was, that if they would speak with the Gen11 they might go to York, also that our Comissary is under restraint, these are very unexpected and surprizeing as well as greiuous tideings to us, and put us uppon signifying to you that it was uppon a certain knowledge of Major Winthrops fidelity, prudence and valor, that we did solicite him to undertake the seruice, and used our interest in the Massachusetts gentn to preuail with him therein, who haveing the same confidence in his vertues, did so, and wee thereon recomended LIEUT. GOV. LEISLER. 289 him to you, who gaue us to understand as grat a value of him, and therefore desired his acceptance with his HIonrs accepting, though he were worthy of a tenfold greater command, he waited on you and his Countrey. Sr these things are so radicated in all New England, that yor thus dealing cannot raise a jealousie in us of anything unworthy so gennerous a soul as is this gentleman, and though in honnor to you in your present Capacity we will suspend any Censures wch we might make on your unadvisedness in this action, yet wee must in justice remember you of that article concluded by the Comrs at York, whereof you were one, namely, what was referred to the Commander in Chiefe and his Councill of Warr, -ch in partickular are not to overrule. If the return from Wooden Creek, done by a Councill of Warr, be the matter [which] offends you as its generally said to bee, consider how far that article and the reason it [is] grounded on lead to it, also that the army being confederate, if you be so conserned, so are wee and the rest, and that you alone should judg uppon the the Genis and Councill of Warr's actions, will infringe our liberty, but that t'vh is worst in event is, that such actions will render our freindly correspondence to weake to joyne in future attempts, wch we may haue but too much occasion for, for if our sending our best freinds to joyn with you, proue a pittfal to them, it will necessitate our future forbearance, whateuer the consequence bee. And Sr you necessitate us to tell you, that a prison is not a catholicon for al State Maladyes, though so much used by you, nor are you incapable of need of, nor aide from their Majesties subjects in New England, nor could you in any one action haue more disobliged al New England, and if you shall proceed in this way, you will certainly put al that gentleman's friends on his Vindication, be the matter controuerted what it will; he is of such estate & repute as could not shun a just tryal, and if your adherence to Mr Milborn (of whose spirrit wee haue sufficient tests) and other emulators of the Major's honnor be greater then to ourselues and the gent of the Bay, you may boast of the Exchange by what proffitt you find. Sr you cannot expect but we shall be warm with these matters unless you preuent us by a timely and honble release of the VOL. II. 19 290 ADMINISTRATION OF Major, wch is the thing we aduise unto and desire to hear from you with al speed what our expectations may bee on this account; we are giueing account of this matter to the Govr and Councill of Massachusetts; it is justly expected that your declaration to us al, of the grounds of this your action should haue been as forward as the thing itself. We also moue to set our Comissary at liberty since he is of such use to our souldiers as he cannot be spared. The Govr and Councill of Connecticutt signed pr their order JOHN ALLYN Secy To the Honble Jacob Leisler Esqr BY yE LIEVT GOVERNOR &c. WHEREAS the Sessions of the Generall assembly held at New York for the said Province on the twenty fourth day of Aprill last was by myselfe with of Advice of my: Councill: prorogued vntill the first day of Septr instant & his Mayties Speciall Servis preventing ye sd Sessions; writts haue bine issued out, I haue with advice of my Councell prolongued the sd Sessions vntill Munday wch shall bee the ffifteenth Day of Septr Instant. These are Therefore in his Maties name to will & requier all and every of the Members thereof to appeare att this Citty of New Yorke on the fifteenth Day of September instant according to sd Prolongation without faile or Delay as they Tender his Majestys Intrest & the Safty of this Province. given Vndermy hand & seale at ffort William this Eleauenth Day of September in the second yeare of ye Raigne of our Soveraigne Lord & Lady William & Mary of England Scotland ffrance & Ireland King & Queene Defender of the ffaith &c. And Supreame Lord & Lady of the Province of New Yorke Annoque, 1690 To ye Severall Countyes in this Province LIEUT. GOV. LEISLER. 291 Att a Court of Admirality held in the Citty hall of the Citty of New york this seaventeenth day of September anno domini one thowsand six hundred & Nyntie. Present Pieter dLanoy Esqr Judge Captn Jacob Mauritze Mr Gerrett Dow Captn Robert Sinclare Captn Gerrett Duycking members Mr Cornelis Plebier Mr Pieter Roberdie'Mr Pieter Adolph Mr Henrick Ten Eyck Adjourned till the eighteenth instant Proclamation made in due forme Commmission for holding the sd Court of Admirality read as followeth Jacob Leisler his Maties Lievt Governor & Commander in Chiefe of the Province of Newyork-Whereas his Matie King William of England Scotland ffrance & Ireland Defender of the faith &c by his Letter dated at Whitehall July 30; 1689: Empowered me to performe all things which to the place & office of his Lievt Governor & Commander in Chiefe of the province of Newyork doth or may appertaine, & that there are severall ships or vessels with their loading brought into this harbour of newyork aforesd (as I am credibly informed) which were taken from the subjects of the french King now in actuall hostility agt the Croun of England &c By vertue of the authority aforesd unto me derived, I doe therefore hereby make & appoint yow pieter dLanoy Esqr Judge of a Court of admirality, Mr ffrancis Rumbold, Captn Jacob Mauritze, Mr Gerret Dow, Captn Gabriell Monveill, Major Nicholas de Mayer, Mr Stephen dLancie, Captn Christopher Goff, Captn William Dearing, Captn Robert Sinclare, Captn Gerret Duycking, Mr Cornelis plebier, Mr pieter Roberdie, Mr pieter Adolph, & Mr Henrick Ten Eyck of the sd Citty of Newyork & you or any six of you (of which number pieter dLanoy Esqr always is to be one) to hear examine & determine all causes or actions that doth or shall arise or depend 292 ADMINISTRATION OF between our sovr Lord the King & any persone or persones who doe or shall pretend to have any right title or Interest in the sd ships orUvessells brought into this harbour as aforesd, I doe also appoynt George Brewertoun Register & George underhill to be Marshall of the sd Court, & this Commission to be of force dureing the time of five dayes after the date hereof, GIVEN under my hand & seale at fort william the seavententh day of september one thowsand six hundred & Nyntie, & in the second year of the Raigne of our Sovr Lord & Lady William & Mary of England Scotland ffrance & Ireland King & Queen JACOB LEISLER The Lybell at the sute of our Sovr Lord the King exhibited by Major Jacob Milborn attorney Generall for & in behalfe of our sd Sovr Lord the King agt the ship the horne friggott as followeth anno R: R: Gulielmi et Maria &c Secundo To the honble pieter dLanoy president & the rest of the Justices commissionated for the loyall examination & condemnation of the ship called & known heretofore by the name of L'Esperance of Haverdu Grace in the kingdom of ffrance Captn Guilaine Bigoir Commander now the home frigott, Captn Robert Colliford now master for the time being &c Captn william Masson Commander of the ship the blissed William & Captn ffrancis Goderis Commander of the Jacob & company naturall borne subjects & freemen of the kingdom of England &c by way of lybell sett forth & shew to your honrs for diverse & sundry reasones causes & allegations hereafter mentioned & sett forth, to shew cause why & wherefore the sd ship the horne friggott formerly the L:Esperance of haverdu Grace belonging to the subjects or vassalls of the french King Together with her furniture gunns & apparrell as also all & every part and parcell of her loading now on board may not be adjudged condemned & sold at a certaine day & disposed of as the Law in such cases makes & provides. first that they the sd Captn William Masson & Captn ffrancis Goderis Commanders of the ships aforesd, did receive under the hand of the honble Jacob Leisler Lievt Governor of this his Maties province of Newyork & seale of the sd province, a certaine Commission bearing date the nynteenth day of May one Thousand six hundred LIEUT. GOV. LEISLER. 293 Nyntie, unto them directed by the Sd Lievt Governor, by vertue of his Matie King williams declaration, beareing date at his Court at hampton Court the seaventh day of May in the year of our Lord 1689 being the first of his Raigne, amongst other things it is there mentioned & exprest That all & every of the Governors of his Maties forts & garrisons or any other officers or souldiers under them by sea & land doe & execute all acts of hostility in prosecution of this warr agt the french King his vassals & subjects & to oppose their attempts, willing & requireing all hissubjects to take notice of the same, In pursuance & obedience to his the sd Governors Commission as aforesd to us directed by-the honble Jacob Leisler, wee the sd Captn william Masson & Captn ffrancis Goderis Commanders of the ships the blissed william & Jacob aforesd & Instuctions then received, departed this port the day of June last past cruzeing on the coast of nova francia (or Canada) near or on the territories of the french Kings did come up from the sd ships then called the L'Esperance of haverdu Grace Captn Guilian Bigoir Commander now the home friggot under the cullours & within the Jurisdiction of the french King, under which she did defend & oppose us as much as in her lay, but being at last seized & caption made by the sd Masson & Goderis, she the sd ship appeared to be a french ship & her company solely french As by the acknowledgment of the officers & seamen confessing & acknowledging & are here ready to depose & Justifie the same befor your honors if thereunto required, The promises considered the sd Captns Crave that In Consideration of this being their commission port & allegations sett forth, the aforesd ship now called the horne friggott lately the L:Esperance with her ammunition guns tackle apparell furniture, Together with her goods wares merchandizes & loading may be condemned & sold as the Law in such cases provides & further saith not which lybell above written Togither with the depositions relating thereto was by the sd Court ordered to be recorded as followeth vizt the depositions of pierre Dieusx, Jacques Lehaire ffrancis Gilbert, deposeth & saith that the said L'Esperance Guilione Bigoir Commander now the horne friggatt Robert Colliford Commander doth belong unto the subjects of the french King namely Monsieur 294 ADMINISTRATION OF Leon & Monsieur Lefferrie living at vimflevor near haverdu Grass in Normandy within the kingdom of ffrance, The which were taken by Captn william Masson & Captn ffrancis Goderis on or about the first day of August last (nova stile) rideing befor the Isle of persia within the province of Canada in the sd french Kings dominions, which sd ship is now in this harbour wherein tuo of the deponents are brought prisoners & the other in the ship stpieter not knowing the contents of their loading nather have observed that any part of the sd loading hath been unloaden since their departure from the sd Isle of persia to this time, & further saith not &c As their depositions taken before the Governor the fifteenth of september instant more fully proport The which depositions originally taken in french now translated & examined by Mr pieter Roberdie one of the members of the sd Court, was found to be true & also attested by Captn william Masson & Captn John Cornelis tuo of the Commanders of the sd vessells in open Court whereupon after mature & serious deliberation of the sd Court It is their unanimous opinion & Judgment that the aforesd ship or vessell the horne friggot Togither with her furniture apparrell & loading &c according to the lybell exhibited agt her &c & the witnesses deposing to that effect is a lawfull prize & so to be disposed of in the behalfe of our Sovr Lord the Kithe a the Law in such cases provides & allows of &c LIEUT. GOV. LEISLER. 295 PROVINCE OF NEWYORK Att a Court of Admirality held in the City hall of the Citty of Newyork this 17th day of September anno domini one Thousand Six hundred & Nyntie Present: pieter dLanoy Esqr Judge Captn Jacob Mauritze Mr Gerrett dow Captn Robert Sinclaire Captn Gerrett duycking members Mr Cornelis plebier Mr pieter Reberdy Mr pieter Adolph Mr Hendrick Ten Eyck Commission for holding the Sd Court of Admiralty JSEAL] Read as followeth Jacob Leisler his Maties Lievt Governor & Commander in Chiefe of the province of Newyork WHEREAS his Matie King William of England Scotland ffrance & Ireland defender of the faith &c By his Letter Dated at white hall July 30: 1689: Empoured me to performe all things which to the place & office of his Lievt Governor & Commander in Chiefe of the province of Newyork doth or may appertaine, and that there are severall Shipps or vessells with their loading brought into this harbour of Newyork aforesaid (as I am credily Informed) which were taken from the subjects of the french king: now in actuall hostility agt the Croun of England &c By vertue of the authority aforesd unto me derived, I doe therefore hereby make & appoynt yow pieter dLanoy Esqr Judge of a Court of Admirality, Mr ffrancis Rumbold, Captn Jacob Mauritze, Mr Gerritt dow, Mr Gabriell Monveill, Major Nichoias de Myer, Mr Stephen delancie, Captn Christopher Goff, Captn william dearing, Captn Robert Sinclare, Captn Gerrett duycking, Mr Cornelis plebier, Mr pieter Reberdie Mr pieter Adolph, & Mr Henrick Ten Eyck of the sd Citty of Newyork, and yow or any six of yow (of which number pieter dLanoy Esqr is allwayes to be one) Toe hear examine & determine all causes or actions that doeth or shall arrise or depend 296 ADMINISTRATION OF between our Soveraigne Lord the King & any persone or persones who doe or shall pretend to have any right title or Interest in the sd shipps or vessells brought into this harbour as aforesd, I doe also appoynt George Brewertoun Register & George underhill to be Marshall of the sd Court, and this Commission to be of force during the time of five dayes after the date hereof Given under my hand & seall at fort William the seaventeenth day of September one Thousand six hundred & Nyntie & in the second year of our Sovr Lord & Lady William & Mary of England Scotland ffrance & Ireland King & Queen &c: The lybell agt the pink the ffrancis & Thomas at the sute of our Sovr Lord the King exhibited by Major Jacob Milborne attorney Generall for & in behalfe of our sd Sovr Lord the King as followeth viz anno Regni Regis Gulielmi et Mariae &c secundo To the honble pieter dLanoy president & the rest of the Justices commissionated for the loyall examination & condemnation of the ship called & knowen heretofore by the name of the St pieter of Bayoun in the kingdom of ffrance Captn pierre de Clabrier late Commander now the ffrancis & Thomas of Newyork Captn dennis now master for the time being &c. Captn william Masson & Captn ffrancis Goderis Commander of the Shipps the blessed William & Jacob & company, & naturall borne subjects & freemen of the kingdom of England &c by way of lybell sett forth & shew to your honrs for diverse & sundry reasones causes & allegationes hereafter mentioned & sett forth, to shew cause why & wherefore these ships the ffrancis & Thomas formerly the St pieter of Bayoun in ffrance belonging to the subjects or vassalls of the french King, Togither with her furniture guns & apparrell, as also all & every part & parcell of her loading now on board may not be adjudged condemned & sold at a certaine day & dysposed of as the Law in such cases makes & providesfirst the sd Captn William Masson & Captn ffrancis Goderis Commanders of the sds ships did receive under the hand of the honble Jacob Leisler Lievt Governor of this his Maties province of Newyork & seale of the sd province a certaine Commission bearing" date the day of June one Thousand six hundred & Nyntie, unto them directed by the sd Lievt Governor by vertue LIEUT. GOV. LEISLER. 297 of his Matie King Williams declaration bearing date at his Court at hampton Court the seaventh day of May in the year of our [Lordi one Thousand six hundred & Nyntie being the first of his Raigne, amongst other things it there mentioned & expresst That all & every of the Governors of his Maties forts & garrisons or any other officers or souldiers under them by sea & land doe & execute all acts of hostility in prosecution of this warre agt the french king his vassalls & subjects, & to oppose their attempts, willing & requireing all his subjects to take notice of the same, in pursuance &c obedience to his the sd Governors Commission to us as aforesd directed, by the honble Jacob Leisler, wee the sd Masson & Goderis Commanders of the ships the blessed William & Jacob aforesd & Instructiones received, departed this port the day of June last past, cruzeing on the coast of nova francia (or Canada) near or on the territories of the french King, did come up with the sd ship then called the St pieter of Bayoun-pierre de Clabier Commander now the Thomas & fifancis of Newyork under the cullours & within the Jurisdiction of the french King, under which she did defend & oppose us as much as in her lays but being at last seized & caption made by the sd Masson & Goderis, the sd ship appeared to be a french ship & her company solely french as by the acknowledgments of the officers & seamen confessing & acknowledging & are here ready to depose & Justifie the same before your honrs if there unto required, the premisses considered the sd Captns Crave that in Consideration of this being there commission port & allegationes sett forth aforesd, the sd ships called the St pieter now the Thomas & ffrancis, with her ammunition guns tackle furniture & apparrell, togither with her goods wares & merchandise & lading may be condemned & sold as the Law in such cases provides, And further saith notWhich Lybell Togither with the depositiones relateing thereto was ordered to be recorded as followeth viz The deposition of Adam Christoll, pierre de Clarepincda Nicholas de Castilion & pierre M}onpon deposeth & saith that the sd ship called the St pieter pierre de Clabier late Commander now the ffrancis & Thomas dennis Commander does belong unto the subjects 298 ADMINISTRATION OF of the french King living at Bayoun in the kingdome of ffrance, which was taken by Captn william Masson & Captn ffrancis Goderis on or about the first day of August last (novastile) rideing before the Isle of persia in the province of Canada in the sd french kings dominions, The which sd ship is now within this horbour of newyork, in whom wee were brought hither as prisoners not knowing the contents of their loading, nather have observed that any part of the sd loading have been unloaden since their departure from the sd Isle of persia to this time, & further saith notAs their depositiones taken before the Governor the fifteenth day of September instant more fully proport, The which depositiones originally taken in french now translated & examined by Mr pieter Reberdie one of the members of the sd Court was found to be true, & also attested by Captn William Masson & Captn John Cornelis tuo of the Commanders of the sd vessells in open Court, whereupon after mature & serious deliberation of the sd Court, It is their unanimous opinion & Judgment That the aforesd vessell the ffrancis & Thomas Togither with her furniture apparrell & loading &c according to the sd lybell exhibited agt her & the witnesses deposeing to that effect, is a lawfull prize and so to be disposed of in behalfe of our Sovr Lord the King, according as the Law in such cases provides & allows of,P. D. LANoYo Per Cur Geo. Brewerton Reg. By Virtue of a Commission from the Honble Jacob Leisler Dated the 20th day of September Directed to us John Outman Simon Jansen Romaine Lendert Hugen and Garrett Hardenburgh, to Repaire on board the Seuerall & Respective Vessells following in order to Inventary & Appraise which are as followeth vizt The fflyboate Masson nothing butt her ballest -s —d The ffrancis and Thomas 300 bushells Salt valuaon 22:10:at 18d a bushell is 221b 10 LIEUT. GOV- LEISLER. 299 The Thomas and Humphrey 20 bushells Salt 18d pr bushell is llb 10" 1:1025 Elke Skins 10:00 Some hhds with soure cider The Jacob 100 bushells Salt 18d pr bushell is 7:10- 7:1026 beaters Skins 12:9040 Elks - - 16: 0The Pink Charles 36 minks _ 3: 050 beauers 24: 0 20 Seall Skins: 0 36 martins 2: 5 100 bushells Salt 18d pr bushell 7:10 The home ffrigatt 20 tonn Salt 36: 0-0 150 kentell fish ) 45: 0-0 Provisions on board of the Aforesaid Vessels menconed & Expressed vizt 4 hhds Beans ~ 1: 4:0 9 barrells flower 10: 0:0 1 hhd Peas 0:12:0 11 barrells Pork 1i: 0:0 18 hhdf Sider Soure 18: 0:0 This is a true Appraisment according to what was Given to us by John Conelis one of the Comandrs of sd Shipps to the best of our knowledge and understanding of the Lading of sa vessels as aforesaid. Sworne before the Judge of the Court of Admiralty PETER DE1 LANOY- Esqr 22d Sept 1690 Geo: Brewerton Regr 300 ADMINISTRATION OF New York Sept 30th 1600 HONBLE GENT.-Yours of September the 5th Instant [qu st, see ante p 288.] mett me at Albany, the contents whereof admitts of various constructions, but that no quibles shall ever be on our side who have hitherto dealt with all sincerity imaginable, its proper to recount proceedings as they are & have been matter of fact, whereby the world may have no task to judge between us & give sentence according to truthIts notorious that May first, an unanimous result was concluded between the commissioners for Boston, Plymouth, Connecticott & New York, that for carrying on the expedition for Canada agt the French &c, there should be raised for Boston 160, Plymouth 60, & Connecticott 135 men, to which New York province were to add 400, Maryland had promised 200, but those were under no stricter terms than an expectation, not oblidged by contractThe great care and charge we underwent to obtaine the 5 nations of Indians, as its considerable, so likewise manifest, which being secured our greatest point was gained, that the French might have no dependance on, or the least expectation of ever obtaining them so farre as to become neuterIts true, that our treaty with the Indians, they did promise 1820 men to goe out with us, but that was a contingency wholly distinct from our contract, although we victualled & furnished them with ammunition & armes in great measure, for their encouragement, expecting that their numbers would have been considerable, although by what stratagems they were diverted, is yet too early assert, altho we are not unsensible of those who occasioned itof these numbers vizt 755, which New York and the confederats of New England were obliged to furnish, New York effected, & Connecticott wanted but few, (although by sickness many were lost) when Major Winthrop tooke the charge of them, receiving my commission & instructions from the commissioners at Albany after many debates, and marched to the Houtkill, [Wood Creek] being the greatest part of fattigue from Albany to Canada,without making any exceptions agt the number of men from New York & Albany, conceiving that Boston & Plymouth forces were compleated, (tho not a man sent) he undertaking for them, not LIEUT. GOV. LEISLER. 301 effectually, but by dint of imagination, yet nevertheless when the sd Major should have proceeded according to the result, he pauses & questions if his forces were sufficient to accomplish his commission, himselfe proposing great danger, and caused officers to vote for their retreate, forbidding peremptorily that more than 30 christians should proceed on the designe, saying he would not march further unless the Indians which promised to goe out, did comply with their word & numbers, whereby many were discouraged that intended to have gone forward with a parcel of 30 accompanied with some Indians, that Killed of the Enemies Catle about 150, slaine & tooke their persons 28, burning great quantities of hay and fodder & 16 houses, besides Barnes, certified if their numbers had been 150 more, they doubted not of taking the enemies fortresses & even Mon Reall itselfe.Now not to repeat the unaccountable and unchristian behaviour of Major Winthrop, when he first came to Albany, of which you have had notice by letter from our commissioners, but no answer vouchsafed us; lett us return to facts before resulted and examined; upon what grounds there could be any success agt our Enemies expected vizt.The result being concluded by two of your commissioners amongst the rest, who brought their credentialls with them when your officers at Albany were summoned to the councill of warre, one of your Captns objected openly, that Major Gold was not qualified for to give his vote at New Yorke aforesd which he abyded by & declared that his commission would not suffer him to sitt in the sd councill, by which great jealousies justly arose amongst the forces belonging to this province of New York.This passing & other incolencies committed by your Captns & Souldiers whoever corresponded with, & adhered to those of the convention, Enemies to the present government, untill the long looked for Major Winthrop arryved, had their recourse to him at Kinde'rhoeck, and we expecting to have found him a person qualified according to the character given, both by yourselves & the gentlemen of Boston, vizt, that he was a person of conduct, valour & integrity, but to our griefe have found what you had too much reason to believe, one who lived in open adultries in despight 302 ADMINISTRATION OF of your lawes, and other crimes which are the ruines of civill government, without the least mark or signe of repentance, to the shame of Christians, but forsooth because he was a toole fitt for the wicked purposes that your Secretary & Livingston had contryved, therefore must he be incessantly pressed upon us with such importunity that was irresistable, which, when once that point was gained, then farewell correspondance with us, nay sent him within a script and tooke an opportunity to committ his usurpations (as you supposed & he confessed, & thought) there had been non to oppose him, Mr Milborn asking why you afforded them not a line, was answered that it was not expected he would be there, such despight you did to the authority of that part of this province, although you well knew there were commissioners with whom had former intercourse after afronting them for their more then ordinary civilities to your people; besides his other qualifications proceeding from his experience, gained when commanded in his Royall Highness the Duke of Yorks guards, hugging the commission granted by Sir Edmund Andros, whereby once gained he might be amply capacitated to serve his quondam master, & that he may have no restraint upon his dispensing conscience hitherto, dares not bind it with an oath of allegiance to King William, least he should break his faith & the trust reposed in him under the Reigne of the late King JamesAnd that more then ordinary Juggling was in this matter, it appears by the comissions granted to an officer of yours for that expedition, the one in May of a sound forme -and consonant to the result, but the other in June restraines to goe without the Indians, who after Mr Livingston came to Albany, being by you sent & your Major guarded when they were upon their march for Canada received a token of Zeewant that they should desist, & thereupon returned, which -waited for newes arryving, the sd Major answered the plott, & thereupon he proceeded as aforesd (not to Canada) but to dissolutionAnd how such a person can be an honor;to all New England as you say (that is wrapt up in him) betokeneth something extraordinary, but rather it would become him with all celerity to vindicate himselfe or you to press him to it, that the Country, LIEUT. GOV, LEISLERo 303 which he hath so much abused, may have that satisfaction at least to hear his defence which can be non, if he depends upon the letter sent me, for its stuffed with impertinent falsehoods, but its not altogether unexpected from such a delinquant when we have received such indignities & shams from your dictators and have spit in our faces within our jurisdictionNevertheless, it cannot but one day sadly reflect that a people professing Christianity so eminently beyond others, should so basely degenerat beneath the very heathens when God hath wrought so miraculous a work, that not onely calls on, but astonishes all the protestant world; such professions should be settled on the Lees & say that the Lord nather doth good nor evill, but trust to your wicked crafts and inventions, through pride and presumption despise the delyverance, but when you are searched with candles, it will be known who are guilty of this accursed thing, & your nakednes will be uncovered, wherefore yow who have not struck hands with the authors hereof, it behoves you arise & shew yourselves men for cause of God & Zion, that you partake not of their abominations, is the hearty & sincere advice of Your Humble Servant JACOB LEISLER BY THE LIEUT GOVERNOR & -COMMANDER IN CHIEFE &c WHEREAS I am assured of your prudence, ability, & Loyalty to his Matie King WILLIAM and his interest in this Province These are to nominate, constitute and apoint you Messrs Jochem Staas, Johannes Wendel, Johannes Bleeker Senr Pieter Bogardus, & Ryer Jacobz Schermerhoorn to superintend, direct, order & controul, all matters and things relating to the City & County of Albany, & the safety & defence of the subjects therein according to ye Lawes of this Province, and the Present Establishment, likewise that you consult wth treat, and other proposalls make, or receive from the 5 Nations of Indians or others who are or will become our allyes, and also to depress and discountenance all such p'sons who have protested against the proclaiming of their Maties Supreame Lord & Lady of this Province, and all their adherents 304 ADMINISTRATION OF and abettors according to an Order by me & Councell made for that purpose; And whatever shall by you be farther acted or done for his Maties Service and the Welfare of sd Citty and County I do hereby ratifie & Confirme as good & valid to all Intents Construccons & purposes: GIVEN under my hand & seale this 10th day of Octobr &c Annoq; Domi 1690. Albany. In the year 1690 ye 14 of Octobr When Jacob Leysler had usurped ye govt the following Persones were chosen John Becker ) Johannes de Wandelaer A Evert Banker Hend. van Dyck John Bleecker Luykas Gerritse AssisClaes Ripse Alderm. Daidtse tats Gert Ryerse Joh: Abeel Eghbert Teunise J Gert van Ness [Translation.] N. Rochelle, 20 Octob, 1690. SIR-I have too much respect for your orders not to execute them punctually; so that pursuant to what you did me the honour lately to give me, I spoke to the principals of this new Colony about the nomination of some persons for the vacant office of Justice of the peace, but as the condition you require-that is a knowledge of the English Tongue-has precluded them from making the Election of two or three according to your order, they cannot pitch upon any except Mr Straing, saving your approbation which if you will have the goodness to accord them you will oblige them infinitely Mr Pinton has also delivered me) this day, an order to be communicated to the sd Inhabitants relative to the election and nomination of Assessors, Collectors and Commissaries~ for levying imposing and receiving Taxes for his Majesty's service. The time is very short, since it is the twenty seventh instant they must LIEUT. GOVo LEISLER. 305 be at Wchester, but they look for some forbearance and delay from your goodness in case, notwithstanding their diligence they may not be able punctually to answer. It is not through any unwillingness to exert themselves to meet it, but you know their strength as well as I. Notwithstanding despite their poverty and misery they will never lack in submission to the orders on behalf of his Majesty both for the public good and interest. This they protested to me, & I pray you to be persuaded thereof. I am with Respect, & pray God for your prosperity Sir Your very humble & very Obedient Servant Address D. BONREPOS, pastor a Monsieur of this French Colony Monsieur de Leislar Lieut Gouuerneur pour le Roy D'Angleterre, du fort Willam a La Nole York BY THE' LIEVT GOVERN" AND COMMANDR IN CHIEF THEIR MATIES PROVINCE OF NEW YORK. WHEREAS Capt William Mason & Capt1l francis Goderus pursuant to a Commission under my hand & Seale Dated May ye 19th 1690 in obedience to his Maties Declaracon of Warr against the french King Did make Caption & Bring into this port Severall Ships & Vessels Belonging to the Subjects of the french King as by Substantiall Evidences did Manifestly appeare thereupon at the Immediate Instance and Request of sd Mason & Goderus a Court of Admiralty was Constituted Septembr Last Past apointing Peter DLanoy Esqr Judge of the Court or others or any five of them to examine heare & Condemn if Cause were the severall Ships & Vessells So Taken & Brought into this portt with their Loadings Goods Merchandize Goods Ammonicon Tackle furniture and apparell &ca (amonghst which The flyboate Then called The Mason now the Katharine Burthen about 300 Tuns) after Due VOL. I. 20 306 ADMINISTRATION OF and mature Consideracon and strict examination into the premises made Returne unto the sd Admiralty office on the Libells Exhibited by sd Mason & Goderus in behalfe of the Kings Matie Condeinnacon of each and every of the sd prizes together with Their Lading Appurtenances &co The wch Condemnacon I doe hereby Certify to have proved and due aprove of to be Confirmed and doe Confirme and further at the Instance and Request of MIr francis Rombouts Jacob Teller & Isaack DeRiemer his' Matie the King of, Englands Leige subjects and fremen of This City now Owners of The sd ship Condemed by the Name of Mason but at present Called the Katharine Doe Certify that they Legaly purchased & Bought the sd ship at ye Publique Sale apointed for the same in this City for wvch the vedue Master Jacob Milborne hath sealed a Bill of Seale Bearing date ye 23th of 8br 1690 which I atest to authentiq to all Instants Constructons & purposes. * Another of the above tenor follows dated 19th deer 1690 for the Condemnation of the french ship the StPierre afterwards the francis, now the Beare 100 tons burthen BY THE LIEVT GOVERNOR & COUNCILL &G WHEREAS the Ship Cataryn whereof Capt Christopher Goffe is Comandr was near Loaden & Charged in this Port bound for london Augus ye 7th last past desired my liberty to pass on his Intended Voyage who was retained by reason of Sundry Spanish Privateers Crusing on this Coast It was found necessary to unload ye said ship to assist other forces for their Majties to take ye Sd Ennemies who were fitted out accordingly & did theirduty among wh1l Capl Goffe aforesaid discharged ye trust reposed in him wth reputacon & honnour & furthermore his a[aties affaires at Albany did require a due returne of proceedings wch Could not be made but by this oportunity These are to Certify that the Sd Ship hath been detained most Espetially for ye sd Service to Convey the same She having taken in but inconsiderable loading since ye time of her Relading as may be Seen by her Certificates from his nMajties Custome howse here. GIVEN under my hand & LIEUT, GOV, LEISLER, 307 Seale at fort Williaml In New'York this 24th day of 81er in ye second year of their Majtics Reigne Annoq: Dmni 1690 JACOB LsEI SLER To all Whome these Shall Come Greeting Past the office JACOB MILLBORNE, Secry. BY THE LIEVT GOVERNOR & COUNCILL &c Present Lt G-ovr h. Jansen P. d La Noy W'm Laurence S. Staets G Beekman S. Edsall J. Provoost R. Lecocq WHEREAS there are a Certaine number of Men in Queen's County on Long island who in a riotous rebellious manner have declared against ye authority of this Govermt & have given out that they are Resolved to maintaine their Rebellions Contrary to ye Peace of our Sovereign Lord ye King his Croune and dignity These are by and with advice of my Councel to Suspend ye Court of Oyer & Terminer wch should be held on Wednesday next for Kings County untill yt sd Rebells shall be Supressed & ye Countyes on Long Island reduced to their Obedience & his Majtys Peace in this Province. GIrvN &c. this 26 Octobr 1690 JACOB LEISLER Newtown Octor 28th in the 2d year of the Reign of o' Sovreign Lord & Lady William & Mary of Engd, Scottd France & Ireld King & Queene Defendrs of the Faith &ca FoRAsMiucH-I as their are many Seditious persons, who without any provocation have taken up Armes and appeared in a Rebellious manner against their Maties Authority within this County called Queenes upon Long Island, and under spetious pretenses 308 ADMINISTRATION OF have drawn aside & caused certaine numbers of his Maties Liege Subjects to abet with them contrary to their Allegiance & bounden duty, and the Peace of o'r Lord ye King his Crown & dignity, and ye security and welfare of the good Inhabitants thereof being of Fatall consequence considering the present war with ye French, and the impending dangers wchl threaten us at ye Frontiers of this Province (Albany) if the same be not secured and defended from ye said enemies and their adherents, wCh is much obstructed hereby, as likewise proceedings in that behalf are necessarily diverted by this Rebellion, and the forces already posted there withdrawing themselves through the malicious speeches and insinuations of the heads, and ringleaders in this Insurrection. THESE are in their Maties name to forbid forwarne, and advertise all persons within this Province, that they in no wise aid, succour, comfort, abet, consent to, or anywise adhere unto the said Rebells or any of their associates, but upon notice hereof that all such who have unadvisedly beene herein concerned doe-forthwith withdraw from them & return to their Allegiance & respective habitations where they shall be preserved in their Rights and properties, and peaceable enjoyment thereof, as they will answer the contrary at their utmost perills, and tender their Maties dignity {n this Province, the peace of the Inhabitants thereof and the dangerous consequences (of the immediate war with ye Common enemy) w1hl may thereupon ensue and to be treated as open enemies to or Sovrn Lord ye King & ye peace of this Province, Declaring hereby that ye reason of taking up arms is to no other purpose but as we are constrained to reduce all to their obedience, & assert their Maties Royall Authority, and secure this their Province in peace and good defence against all foreigne or Intestine enemies: GIVEN under my hand and seale by virtue of a Commission to me granted by the Lievt Governr & Councill at New Yorke LIEUT. GOY. LEISLER. 309 BY THE LIEVT GOVERNO- & COUNCILL &e. WHEREAS there are Certaine Warrts issued by the Lievt Governi & Councill bearing Date ye 26th Instant requiring the apprehending of Certaine rebellious & seditious persons & bringing them hither as also to seize & bear away Certaine papers wch shall be found amongst them since wch farther notice is arrived of their sd Rebellions These are in his Maties Name to authorize and appoint you Majr Jacob Milborne to take what forces you can Raise wheresoever you shall come wthin this Province to Superintend ye said Orders & them to whom they are directed ye Same to Ordr direct fulfill Controule and in all things relating his Majties Service to prosecute wth all violence & act of hostility as to You shall seeme meet &. ye sd rebells wholly to Subdue & all others that are refractory to ye Establisht Governmot to suppresse in such method & by force as shall be requisite; & all Officers Civill & Military are hereby required to be aiding & assisting to you herein as they shall answer the Contrary at their Utmost Perill & wtsoever you shall find requisite to doe in ye prmisses for his Majties Service this shall be to you a sufficient Warrt GIVEN &c. 28th Octobr 1690 JACOB LEISLER BY THE LIEVT GOVERNOR &ca N Yorke FORASMUCH as there are many Seditious persons who without any provocacon Have taken up Armes an apeared in a rebellious manner against their Majties Authority within Queens County on long Island and under Spitious p'tence have Drawne aside and Caused Certaine numbers of his Majties Leige Subjects to abett with them Contrary to their allegiance and Bounden duety and ye peace of our Lord ye King his Crowne & dignity & ye Sucurty & Welfare of ye Good inhabitants thereof being of fatall Consequences Considering ye present Warr vth ye french & ye Impending Dangers wch threaten us at ye fronteers of this Province (Albany) if the same be not Sucured and defended from ye Ennemies & their adherents which is much obstructed hereby as Likewise pro 310 ADMINISTRATION OF ceedings in that behalfe are necessarily Diverted by this Rebellion & ye forces already posted there withdrawing themselves Throug ye malicious Speeces & Insinuacons of the head & ringleaders of this Insorrection and whereas I have received Certaine Informacon that ye Sd rebells have Been forced to fly By our forces sent to Supress them, and that none of sd Rebells or there Adherents [-escape] if possible to be preventedThese are in his Majties name to appoint you Samuell Edsall, Captn Thomas Williams Esqrs two of ye members of my Councill, or any of you to be Comander of ye Sloope and over such Companies of Volunteers as shall willingly Go with you who are hereby required to obey you as their Comandr and you are hereby required to Sayle forthwith to flushing Bay from thence to cruze to ye Sound & to Examine all Sloops Boates Canoos or any other Vessells your shall meete with & to [secure] all or any Suspected. persons and examine all papers to Bring them to Mee & you are hereby required if you deeme meet to Examine all or any Suspected howses for sd Rebells and papers and if you meet Majr Millborne that you observe such Orders and to follow such farther Directions as you shall receive from mee & that you returne when you shall seem meet for doeing whereof these are your sufficient ComissionI GIVEN &c. Fort William This 30th of Octob. &c 1690. JAcoB LEISLER Past ye office Abrahll Governeur D. SecY One of the Same Tenor and date to Hendrick Ten Eyck, Fort William, Novemnbr 4th 150. These are to Nominate, Constitute and apointyou Mayors Jacob Milborne Gerardus Beekman & the rest of the Military Comission officers of King's County to come at fiatbos and hold a Court marshall to Examine heare Conclude & determine all such mutters & things wch shall relate ye sd Militia in said County or any officers or persons w-h have offended, neglected their Duty or otherwise trespassed ye same to Censure by ffine Suspending their Comission, or other punishnt to inflict Acording to ye Nature of LIEUT. GOVY LEISLER, 311 their offence as to you shall seem meet. Hereby Constituting any Seven of ye sd Comissioned officers to be a full & ample court whereof Majr Jacob Milborne is always to be one & p'sided & whatsoever you shall so act & do in ye prmisses shall be held good & Effectuall. GIVEN &c. this 4th of Novembr In ye second year of their Maties Reigne: & this Comission to Continue for five dayes following ye date thereof JACOB LEISLER IN PERSUANCE of a warrtt Directed to us underwritten by the Honourable Leivt Governor Jacob Leysler bearing date the 5th of November instant in order to repaire on board the Shipp Resolucon to take an Inventory thereof which is as followeth to say The Hull with masts & yards compleate & 2 square topmasts three anchors one stream ditto two ditto two cables one Stream Cable & harser One piece of Junk Standing &- Runing Regging Compleate One Suite Sailes at the yards three Boy ropes, Spare Sailes One fore course & fore topsaile One main topsaile worne two top gall: sailes Thirteen great guns foure pattereras eight Chambers with spunges ladles &c. belonging thereto, one barrell powder & eight round shott eighteen Ton fish by estimacon eight hundred weight bread by ditto. five compasses four halfe houre glasses one watch glass six lanthornes, one suite colours, one chest iron & Carpenters tooles five hundred weight Iron worke one dipsey lead & line & one hand lead, twenty water Caske wooden bound Novembr This a true Inventory to the best of our know6th 1690 ledge & understandin, GEO: DENNES Vera Copia J: WHEELER Geo: Brewerton Regr 312 ADMiINISTRATION OF Anno Regni Regis Gulielmi et Marire &c New York To the honble Pieter D'Lanoy President & the rest of the Justices Commissionated for the tryall Examinacon & Condemnacon of the flyboate called and knowen heretofore by the name of the Virgin de honfleur in the Kingdom of ffrance Jacques Bougour late Commander; now the Resolution of New York Capn George Bollen for the time being Commander &c. The said Capn George Bollen, William How & John Weeden Quarter Masters naturall borne Subjects & freemen of the Kingdome of England &c by way of Libell set forth, & Shew to your honsrs for diverse and Sundry reasons causes, and Allegations hereafter mentioned to shew cause why and wherefore the said fflyboate ye Resolucon formerly the Virgin de honfleur of ffrance belonging to the subjects or vassalls of the dfrench King together with their ffurniture, Guns, and Apparrell, as also all & every Part and parcell of her Loading now on board may not be adjuged condemned & sold at a certaine day & disposed of as the Law in such Cases makes & provides &c. First that they said Capn George Bollen, William How and John Weeden by virtue of a Commission under the hand of the honble Jacob Leisler Lievt Governor of this his Maties Province of New York and seale of sd Province bearing date the 19th of May 1690: unto the sd Capt Bollen directed then Commander of the Sloope Resolucon by the said Lieut Governor by virtue of his Matie King Williams Declaration bearing date at his Court of Hampton Court the 7th day of May in the year of or Lord 1689: being the ffirst of his Maties Reigne, amongst other things there mentioned & exprest, that all and every of the Governors of his Maties fforts and Garrisons or any other Officers or Souldiers under them by sea and Land do and Execute all acts of hostility in prosecution of this War against the ffrench King his vassalls and subjects, and to oppose their attempts willing and requiring all his subjects to take notice of the same. In pursuance, and obedience to his the said Governors Commission as aforesaid and directed by the honble Jacob Leisler. We the said Capt George Bollen & William How, being on board the Sloope Resolucon aforesaid) and Instructions then LIEUT. GOV. LEISLER. 313 received departed this Port some day in May last past cruzing on ye Coast of Nova fiiance or Canada near or on the Territoryes of the ffrench King did come up with the sd Ship or fflyboate then called the Virgin de honfleur Jacques Bourgour Commander now the Resolution of New York within the French Kings Jurisdiction, did defend and oppose as much as in her lay, but being at last seized and caption made by the sd Capn Bollen William How &ca She the said flyboate appeared to be a ffrench Ship and her Company soly ffrench as by the officers and Seamen Confesse & acknowledge and are here ready to depose and justifie the same before your honors, (if hereunto required) The premises considered ye Said Bollen, How, and Weeden crave that in consideracon of this being their Commission Port, and the Allegations Set forth as aforesaid, The said fflyboate called the Virgin, now the Resolucon, with her Ammunicon, Guns, Tackle, Apparrel and furniture together with her Goods, Wares, Merchandize and lading may be condemned & sold as the Law in Such Cases Provides and further Say not. Sworne in Open Court 11th Novemb" 1690 GEO: BREWERTON Regr BY THE LIEVT GOVERNOR & COUNCILL WHEREAS there is more then ordinary aprehensions of the Enemies aproching Albany & the parts adjacent and there being abzoulute Necessity to reinforce these post the loss whereof would Bee of such fatall Consequence to these province and the adjoyning places (if should so Happen through our defaalth or neglects which God forbidd. These are therefore in his Magties name to will and require you and every of you forthwith upon receipt hereof to select out of the County of Ulster one Hondred Good or Eighty at least good able men Compleat in armes which shall be Transported to Albany for his Maties seruice at opon the first day of January next and that at all times before uppon notice of the Comisss at Albany of the Enemies aproching you send the sd number of men 314 ADMINISTRATION OF or as many as can be obtained without thelay as you will answer the Contrary at your utmost perill and being proceeded against as Enemies To his Matie and this province. GIVEN under my hand and scale at Fort William this 16th of Novembr in the Second yeare of Their MatieS reign Anoq Dom 1690 JACOB LEISLER To Major Thomas Chambers and The rest of the Military officers under his Direction in the County of Vlster Here follows an order l to. Capt. Barent Lewis, Mr Schermerhorne and their assistants" to press 20 men with armes & 300 skepples peas & 250 skepples Indian Come within the County of Ulster for the Expedition of Albany. BY THE LIEVT GOVER3iON &c. WHEREAS His Majties Intrest & ye Security of this Province requires in an Espetial manner ye maintenance and Encouragemt of ye Contract made [with] the five nacons of Indians Concluded at Albany by ye Commissiones May the [33d] 1690 For Corroborating whereof it hath Proved very Effectuall by Employing Mr Aernout Cornelisse Viele as agent to reside amongst ye sd Indians at their Court of Onondage & for ye same purposes I have comissionated Mr Gerret Luycasse wth some others in August last to officiate in such capacity, or what might tend unto ye End aforesd until ye sd Aernout should arrive there. These are to authorize & apoint you the sd Aernout Cornelisse Viele to be agent for this their Majties Province of New York to go to Onnondago & there reside or Continue or such other Parts or Places amongst the sd Indians Acording to Instructions as fromU time to time you shall receive from the Commissionrs at Albany ye Same Strictly to Observe, & wherein the Case shall so happen that notice Cannot be given to them & an Answer may be reasonably Expected from them for yor further direction then it is Comitted to your Wisdome & Conduct to act & do Acording to yc best of yo' Knowledge, Skill & Power to act & do in all things becoming such an. Agent as if you had particular Instruccou LIEUT. GOV. LEISLER. 315 & directions from mee or ye sd Comissionrs wch may Conduce to his Majties dignity & Interest & the Security & Advantage of this Province for so doing this shall be to You a Sufficient Warrt & farther you are hereby Empowered to ordr direct apoint & Controule ye aforesd Gerrit Luycass & all & Evry prson sent wth him or Remaining of or People amongst ye sd Indians in what shall or may Contribute or tend to ye aforesaid Purposes hereby Willing & requiring all & Every of Them to obey yor Lawfull Comands as they Wil answer the Contrary at their utmost Perills GIVEN under my hand & seale at fort Wm in New York this 20th Day of 9br in ye 2d Yeare of their Majties Reigne Annoq DIli 1690 BY THE IIEVT GOVERNR &c These are in his majties name to Will & require you to forewarne & forbid all prsons in yor Baylewick to go on board ye Ship Jacob Wm Masson Comandr & that you forthwt1 Cause [sEAL] good & tried Watch to be kept that no prson goes aboard of him w\h may Pilote him through helgate & if any person refuse to obey you that him or them you seize & bring before me to answer for Their Contempt GIVEN under my hand & scale this 30 Nber in ye Second Year of Their majties Reigne 1690 JACOB LEISLER To ye Constables of harlem & bouwery Past ye Office Abral" h Gouverneur D: Secry Endorsed An Order by Lieutn Govyr Leisler to the Constables to prevent the Ship Jacob from being Piloted thro' Hell Gate A. D. 1690 316 ADMINISTRATION OF Boston Deem 111690 Lefftt Govr Jacob LeislerHoNRD SIR Yr last Reseaued and ansd by the way off Road Island Sins by the barbadoes. whe. haue. obtained acctt off Ireland being wholy Redust and his. Magst Return. for England: allso a list of the persons In hold for Suspition. of treason, Govr Siagter. is. daily Expected. with. Seueral. of our. merchant. ships, we haue. some hoy and strange. Reports. of actions. and things. In ther. Magst govnm of ther. provens. of N York and Sir We are. ginerally sorry that things are Com. to open arms, espessialy whan Settlements. from the. King is deemed. to be so neer., Sir gustis. with. moderation and mersy. is becoming all persons. in pour Sir. I must beg your. faivor that I Cannot Inlarge., the gentle man M'r Gray-that is the barer hereof was so kind to me. as. to aquint me off his. going to. N York. and now staijs att the tauerne for theas. linse. who promisd to. Deliuer-with. own hands. to. yor honr and thow. many hard Reports are flying about by some. yett this. gentl has giuen such Report of things. to. me and as. I can understand to. others as was sparing of Reflecting and nothing to my knoulige, But whatt agrcad with. what you writt me, Sir. with my harty Respects I Remaine. yr honrs frind to. Sarve JACOB MELYEN Addressed To The honourd Jacob Leisler Lefft Govern, att fort William In New YorkLEISLER TO GOV TREAT. New York January the 1st 1690 [91 HoNBL' SS-Long have I waited for an answer to my proposall relating to persons that should have beene empowered to meet at Rye, for consulting what might be requisite in this conjuncture, for securing Albany &c, but hitherto have obtained no returne, LIEUT. GOV. LEISLER. 31.7 which denotes your unconcernednesse therein. Although I recd lately a letter of a long date, (vizt) S.ber 1st (signed by your secretary pr your order, making no mention of mine sent your Honrs & the Gen1 Court) but, in a stile as abstrues as it is malicious and menacingCertainly, if you believe that I dare be faithfull to ye Kings interest or the publick weale, you cannot expect that I should omit dealing so plainly with you, considering your behavior to me & this Province,by yo' breach of covenant, insolent obtrusions, invading or Province, & defeating (what in you lay) those measures & undertakings to maintaine their Maties dignity, to secure against and damnifie the Enemies of both; exhorting you once againe to make due reflection, and shew some marks that may manifest itYou cry out as condemned feiends fearing to be tormented before yor time; your dangers not taking that effect to use the meanes for preventing what impends, vizt, men, money, Provisions, or so much as a capitulacon concerning them, but fearfull expectacons of the event; you allaying the torment by conceiving of the numbers who may accompany you in the misery, rather than contrive auxiliaryes for releife; as appeares by that part of your letter vizt." You recommend that Albany may be well guarded, and made " able to defend itselfe against any of the assaults of the Enemy, 4 wch if neglected, it may be a discouragemt if not ye losse of the "i five nacons as well as of that place, wch will be a damage to or " Lord the King & to all New England, as well as the Province of New York; farther I am to signifie to you what I have done, with my opinion of what is farther necessary to be done, which "you are pleased to say shall be welcome"St James, highly condemns those Hypocrites, who, instead of affording charity, gave the advice only, to be cloathed & warmed, although they did not upbraid them with the consequences that necessarily must insue their indigence, conceiving their withholding from them and their duty5 crime sufficient without mocking them and Divelry of insulting over them, vizt, that they should be called to an accot for being starved, although (by incharity) it 318 ADMINISTRATION OF was out of their power to prevent. But that ye world may see how far you are addicted thereunto. You play the extent of the gaime fiancying if you can but patch up something looking Loyall care in losing the Kings post by your owne default, (reflecting upon mee) that it answers the calls of God, yo' Prince, and trust ye Country reposeth in you. But mistake not yourselues, to imagine such ifig leaves sufficient covering for your strenious evills, which that you may be more capable of accomplishing what already you have not compleated to the extent of your treachery, de novo you make the invitacon that I would once againe shew you where my strength lyes, thereby to consider in your discretion in what part, and how far you may consummate the victory you have so long promised to yourselves & confederatesBut my thinkes to have the los of all New England attributed to mee, as well as this Province, is too much to lye at stake, for when I neuer was entrusted with ye consults of any of those Colonyes, more then the Suffrages admitted me at ye unanimous result in May last, to wch I referre the world to Judge of; and do declare my opinion absolutely herein vizt. It is indifferent to me whether Don Quixote encounters with a flock of Sheep or WindmillsGood God, to what excesse do men run themselves into, neither regarding morality or the legible proceedings of the Creator, when his judgments are abroad and carry such remarkable stamps of punishing These Territories, without taking notice of the controversy, and warning us not to trust to our owne crafty inventions or formidable powers, unlesse olr intencons are pure, whereby they may qualifie us to call for a blessing, and so modestly hope for successe, contrary to guile and base arts; shifting the misfortunes (or rather proper effects) upon those who never were thought worthy of consulting the enterprize. For my part I must owne mine and the iniquities of the Province, and-that we have highly as well as justly merited whateuer may befall us, and in a sence thereof acknowledge that it is the Lords & long suffering, that we are not consumed, not only for or accustomed vices, but in an especiall manner for our ingratitude LIEUT. GOV. LEISLER. 319 under so marvellous a deliverance, neither dare depend on any arm of flesh, farther then the obligacons of my duty & endeavours are subservient to or great masters requirement and governanceI am the same time to acquaint you that the new Indian word is Stae or St-aw, those 5 nacons hitherto assuring us of their constancy we entertaine with suitable encouragements; and wish that there was not renewed occasions to remind your unrighteously practices in countenancing & supporting Mr. Livingston & others to take Sanctuary amongst you, after repeated reasons of ffact wch calls them to justice in this Province, to wch they relate, and that once at last, you would thinke it time to make good what all nations would count obliging to performe (ecept yourselves) vizt the Provisions, Anmmunicon and other disbursements to your orders & promises, whereby I may be so much the more advanced to do what you threaten me if I should neglect. I meant performing my duty withe the money, wch this Province hath entrused me withall & that unaccountable article of yours, wch was altogether mistaken in. Hoping God Almighty will thinke upon us for his owne, & the poor Protestant cause sake, I am yours as you have uneighbourly dated w-ithallJAcoB LEISLER To the Honorable Robt Treat Eqr GoSr & the Honbie co-acill of Connecticut BY' THE LIEVr GOVERNOR, &c'VWHER:EAS his maties City & County of New Yorke hath Been of Late neglected in reguard of Due Discipline and ordering of the Melitia and I ame credibly Informed that many of the officers are wanting to their Duety therein. These are therefore to Desire and require you Major John De Bruyn that you Doe with all Convenient Speed cause a Councill of the severall officers for ye Sd City and County to be Convened & take Such measures & resolucons that the Militia may be Settled and duely apointed upon such penaltyes as you shall seem Good to Inflict on ye offenders who shall not strictly obey such orders as shall be made for exercising the same which may most 320 ADMINISTRATION OF Conduce (especialy in this Time of warr) To his Matis Intrest the Security of This part of this Province and ye oppositions of our Ennemies and for so Doeing This shall be your suficient Warrant. Given &c. New York This 6th day of January &ct 1690. BY THE LIEVT GOVERNOR WHEREAS there is an act of assembly Entituled an Act for Raising Three pence in the Pound of all Reall and Personall visible Estate of all and singular the Inhabitance of this Province dated ye Second Octobr Last past one halfe Thereof to be paid. at or before the 21. January Then next Ensuing and the other halfe at or before the 25th of March next Ensuing & That Assessors and Collectors for executing of sd Act be chosen by the frehollders of each Towne within this Province These are therefore in his Maties Name to Will & Require you. to chuse the Inhabitants of your County in Each respective Towne to meet to make choise of assessors and Collectors for the same that so ye one halfe of sd Tax ma be forthwith Collected and paid Transmitted to this City of New Yorke to his Maties Collector General for this Province and the Remaining halfe at or before the 25th of March next without further Delay as you tender his Maties Intrest and Safety of this province and answer the contrary at your utmost perill. GIVEN &c this 25 January 16 9. To the Mayor & aldermen of this City of New Yorke The same to the Justices of Kings, Richmond & Weschestero * LEISLER'S PROTEST AGAINST MAJOR INGOLDESBY. BY THE LIEUT GOVENOR &c. FOR as much as Major Richard Ingoldesby without producing any order from his Majesties King William or Coll Sloughter hath demanded possession of this his Majesties fort not.being satisfied LIEIUT. GOV. LEISLER. 321 with the, accommodations of this City for himself and the forces under his command being twice tendered unto him, untill such orders shall arrive, as also your Petitioner Said Major Ingoldesby hath presumeth to issue forth a mandate under his hand and seal at arms bearing date the 30th -- 1690 in New York, directed to Captain Saml Moore an inhabitant of this province on Long Island willing and requiring him (by virtue of a commission from their majesties King William & Queen Mary to the said Major) in obedience to their said Majest that they aid & assist us in all things & matters concerning to & in fulfilling the said commission & that You and every one of yo do aid show & are ready at all times, & with speed to assist me in all things, for the compassing & overcoming of. all yet Stand in opposition against their majesties, said Command. & that you cause these things to be published & made manifest with all speed as may be & that we shall deem & account of all such yet Stand in opposition, to be rebels against their said Majesties &c -which is of dangerous consequence to this their Majesties said province & the peace of their subjects therein'I do by & with the Consent of my Council, military officers & others, the good inhabitants of this Province for & in behalfe of our Sovereighn Lord & Lady-King William & Queen Mary the Peace of their Crown & dignity, & the safety of this their said Province, hereby declare f& solemnly protest against the proceedings of the said Major & all his accomplices for whatsoever bloodshed or damages, shall or may ensue thereupon, & do further forbid him the said Major Ingoldsby, to commit any hostile act against his Majesties fort City or ports of the said Province at his utmost perils, give under my hand & seal at fort William this 31 January 1690 —& in the 2d year of their Majesties Reighn. VOL. II. 21 322 ADMINISTRATION OF LEISLER'S PROCLAMATION CALLING OUT THE MILITIA. BY THE LIEUT GOVENOR &C. WHEREAS I am informed that Major Richard Ingoldesby hath issued a mandate to raise forces upon long Island under pretence of Commission from their Majesties King William & Queen Mary for so doing which is contrary to the peace of their Crown & DignityThese are therefore to command you & and every one of you according to your Commissions from me, by authority of his said Majesties King William to Raise all the forces under your command to be ready & Compleat in arms both horse & foot to observe such farther orders & directions as you shall receive from me & in Case of any opposition of Parleys in the performance hereof-the same you are to suppress & repell by force & for So doing this shall be a sufficient warrent, Given under my hand & Seal at fort William this 31th of January in the second year of their majisties said Reighn Anno Dom. 1690* INGOLDESBYFS ANSWER TO LEISLER'S PROTEST. SIR-I have received your protest in words against me but in the true meaning & intent very pernicious & of dangerous consequence to their Majesties said Interest & good Subjects of this Colony of New York what I have done has been only to prevent such outrages, as have been daily committed by those persons you term your Soldiers, I know not how you will answer, the firing a shot at my men last night when they were comming on board, having given an act they were his Majisties Soldiers, I am come to protect his Majesties Subjects & preserve the peace, if you begin the breach of that it must be at Your door I am sir your Humble Servt from on board the ship RICHARD INGOLDESBYo Beaver the 1st FebY 1690 LIEUTe GOV, LEISLER. 323 LEISLER'S REPLY TO INGOLDESBY. Fort William Feb'y the 2nd 1690 Yours of the first instant I received wherein you mention a Shot fired at your men which I have forth with examined & find it a matter of fact, if you please to point those you conceive injured to appear, Justice shall be done forthwith God forbid any Under my command Should be countenanced in an ill action, I have also sent the Bearer, to let you Know, what to my best judgment may accommodate you, if you can consult it better it will be more pleasing SirYour very humble Servant, JACOB LIESLER * PROCLAMATION OF MAJOR INGOLDESBY TO THE PEOPLE OF NEW YORK. WHEREAS there has been several false & malitious rumours Spread about in several parts of their Majisties colony of New York; reflecting upon me by some persons,ill affected to the interest of their majisties by which their majisties, good subjects are disturbed & lye under fright & apprehensions of some hostilities to be counted contrary to the King's peace, I do therefore publish & that no person or persons, by any authority derived or any other encouragement whatsoever from, shall molest or disturb any of their majisties good Subjects in this colony & that it is my full intent & purpose to protect at all your Majisties Subjects in peace & Quietness, both as to your persons & Estates in as much as in me Lyes according to the Laws of England & constitusions of New York dated on board the Ship Beaver the 2nd of Feb'y 1690. (was Signed) RICHARD INGOLDESBY (God Bless King William & Queen Mary) 324 ADMINISTRATION OF LEISLER'S ORDER FOR THE RECEPTION OF MAJOR INGOLDESBY'S TROOPS. WHEREAS by gods providence certain notice is arrived, that his Excellcy Col1 Slaughter is appointed his Majties Govenor over this province &c & that this his Majisties fort & other appendinces to the said province are to be surrendered unto the said Governmt being daily expected on whose happy appearence his Majities Said orders (as in duty) are to be Cheerfully & exactly complied with all In the mean time his honor Major Richard Ingoldesby having a considerable number of his Majesties said Soldiers under his command for the service of this Colony which at the present cannot be otherwise accommodated than in this City untill his excellency AppearsThese are in his Majisties name William & Mary, King & Queen of England &c to will & Command all persons within this City & province that they receive & entertain & bear all due respect & affection unto the said Major, & all under his command not offering the least offence by word or deed, but as in duty bound to embrace, assist help, & do all good offices immaginables, as being Sent hither for their Majisties, especiall Service & preservation of this province from their Majisties, & our enemies as they will answer the contrary, at their utmost perils GIVEN under my hand & Seal this 3d Febry in the Year of their Majties Reighn Anno Dom 1690* LEISLER'S REFUSAL TO SURRENDER THE FORT TO MAJOR INGOLDESBY. Major Richard Ingoldesby having demanded Possession of this his Majties Fort without shewing the least order from their Majtie's King William & Queen Mary or his excellency Coll Sloughter for the same without which said orders it is not to be surrendered on any terms whatsoever & several tenders having been made him for the present accommadation of himself & forces brought with LIEUT. GOV. LEISLER. 325 him for his Majties service but so it is that he hath altogether refused the same & no less will Satisfy him than the possession of, the said fort, which cannot be justified so to do, the major by flagitious councellors who to carry on their accursed desighns of mischief & gratify their revengefull Spirits (depending upon his Majties gracious indemnity for their said crimes which already have been & may be committed before the arrival of his Excellency though never so wicked) hath presumeth to levy forces by his own authority (pretending, commission from his Majesty & likewise dignified himself by the Sovereighn Stile (us) by which Sundry outrages are committed & persons who have been instigators rigleaders & promoters of opposing the taxes for Suporting the present war, & other ennormities, do head & encourage the inhabitants to take up Arms by virtue thereof all which tends to Confusion & intestine war amongst his Majesties peaceable Subjects of this province & in all probability the destruction thereof if not timely prevented of which the said Major has been Sufficiently advertised, but contrary to his promise hath persisted therein, These are therefore to publish & declare unto all their Majisties dutifull Subjects within this Province that it is yet tendred as aforesaid that the said Major Shall have all accommodations for provisions Lodgings &c-for himself & said forces or what more are arrived with Sutible housing for such stores of war &c. brought for his Majties service in this province, the same to be in his possession & ordering untill his Excelly Col1 Sloughter doth arrive, or his Maities said orders for Surrendering the said fort or province, hereby promising that upon the arrival of his Excellency or such orders, to resighn, the said fort according to the tenor thereof declaring that it now is, as it hitherto hath been holden & preserved for that intent without any sinister or double meaning or other purpose whatsoever; & all persons without the said province are hereby strictly required & forbidden to abet, comfort, countenance, aid assist, or any ways to Join with or adhere to the Said Major's Commands as aforesaid, but on the Contrary to oppose resist & altogether disregard the same as they tender the breach of their allegiance & duty to their Majisty the peace of this province & the Quiet of the inhabitants, & good Subjects therein, & that the 326 ADMIINISTRATION OF said Major doth forthwith recall the said warrent & forbid any further proceedings in that nature as he will answer for the evil effects that thereon ensue at his utmost peril, GIVEN under my hand & Seal at fort William feby 4th in the second year of their Majesties Reighn Anno Dom 1690 FRAGMENT OF ANOTHER OF LEISLER'S PROCLAMATIONS. -Have been used for preventing the same which hitherto has proved ineffectualThese are therefore in their Majties said names Strictly to forbid all persons that pretend any Authority from the said Major to raise forces & Quarter the same upon his Majesties Subjects upon the said Island or Committ any Acts of Violence or force whatsoever, to persist therein but on the Contrary, that they forthwith retire of their several places of abode peaceable & so remain as they will answer the contrary at their perils, which being performed, all officers which are Commissionated, are likewise commanded to dismiss the forces which are raised for Subduing the same & likewise do repair to their several habitations as if Such disorders had never been, & so to continue unless just occasion should require the contrary, & the Honble Major Ingoldesby is hereby advertised that what is requisite to be done on his part may instantly be performed, GIVEN under my hand & Seal at fort Wm this 5 of Feby in the second year of their Majisties reigne Anno Dom 1691 LIEUT. GOV, LEISLER. 327 At a meeting of the worshipfull Mayor Alderman, Common Council & officers of the Militia in this City of New York Feb'y 6th 169 Major Ingoldesby, [entering] & desiring that he may have the use of the City Hall for Accommodating his Majisties Soldiers under his command untill better entertainment is provided Present, P. De la Noy Mayr Capt Swaer Olpherts Major De Brown Leut. P. Van Brugge Captn Day King Leut. Paul Turke Cornelis Pluvier Ensign De Milt Johannes Provoost David ProvoostConsented that the said Major doth quarter the said Soldiers or so many of them as may conveniently be entertained provided that no less interruption or impediment Shall be thereby made relating the Courts of Judicature to be held in the said Hall as formerly, & of right belongs unto them without having relation to the Militia of this City as it is now constituted Signed in behalf of the Said Mayor Alderman &c by their order Signed JACOB MILBORNE Secry* SECRETARY CLARKSON TO GOV. TREAT. HONBLE S —I am Directed by the Genlemen Named of their Majestys Councell of NewYork to give you an Account of the present state of affayres here & to Desire ye Advice of your Honrs & others Concerned in ye Govermt of yr Maestyes Colony of Connecticut yt upon which I cannot do better then by Covering a copy of ye order taken for that purpose which accordingly I have enclosed & because it hath been thought in this City by Many prudent persons that Capt Leisler hath had very perticular Advices from your parts I am the more hopefull that Nothing shall be wanting 328 ADMINISTRATION OF within your power Necessary for yr Majistyes service & ye security of ys part of Their Territoryes being in so Near a Neighbourhood to your selues I am Honble Sr Your Humble Servt M. C. Secretary To Coll Robert Treat at his house In Milford 4 March 1691 Endorsed on the back of the above s This received Sabboth morning as I was going to meeting the gentA here perusing it desired you would hasten up wth speed & bring up one wth you, that we may be a full Councill to doe what is necessary in the Case. pr. Order JOHN ALLYN Secy March 8th 1690-1 *THE LT. GOV. & COUNCIL'S REASONS FOR RESISTING MAJOR INGOLDESBY. BY THE LIEUT GOVENOR & COUNCIL Present, The Lieut Govenor Johannes Vermilye P: De Lay Noy Saml Staats Thomas Williams Johannes Provoost Hendrick Jansen Jacob Mauriz Robert Le Cock In persuance of his Majestys letter bearing date the 30th July 1689 for governing this province untill further orders &c — Their Majesties said Interest hath been asserted & defended the peace of the Province preserved untill the arrival of Certain Ships with Soldiers & ammunitions Under the direction of his Excellency Cole Slaughter who as we are credibly informed so LIEUT. GOV. LEISLERo 329 we undoubtably believe has his Majesties Commission to govern this province & further orders concerning us but unfortunately Seperated at Sea-Now so it is that Major Richard Ingoldesby Captn of a Company of the aforesaid Soldiers without producing any Instructions orders or other power from his Majesty or his Excellency Saving a Commission to be Captain as aforesaid commanding him to observe Such orders as he shall receive from his Majesty's the Governor that now is or for the time beingHe the said Major did summon this his Majesty's fort to be surrendered into his possession, otherwise upon refusal the Lieut Governor to be Esteemed no friend to their Majesties, King William & Queen MaryLikewise he the said Major did issue forth a Certain Mandate or warrent to raise forces for his assistance in all things & Matters concerning to & in fulfilling a Commission from their Majesties King William & Queen Mary, furnishing such who are disaffected to the quiet of the Government with Amunition &c, Encouraging Papists & other profligate persons to insult over, & disturb the good Subjects of their MajestiesAlso hath taken upon him to Superintend the Militia of this City with repeated provocations against the Commander in Chief of his Majesties fort &c, notwithstanding due Notice & Caution hath been given lim to the ContraryFarthermore hath abused such who were employed to fetch provision of wood for his Majesties Garrison by disarming & uncloathing them to search for papers under frivolous pretencesAnd to add to all this, he the said Major did Excite induce encourage & head great numbers of papists and french, Amongst others of the inhabitants of this City, with force of Arms to show themselves in a Rouatous, Riotous hostile manner putting the rest of the good inhabitants of this City in fear of their Lives & possessions without the least Colour or cause shown, or declared for so doing with many more unwarrentable practices, all which tend to confusion & destruction being Contrary to the peace of our Sovereign Lord & Lady Wm & Mary King & Queen of England, Scotland France & Ireland defenders of the faith &c-their 330 ADMINISTRATION OF Crown & dignity & Supremacy over this province & the welfare & tranquility of their good Subjects therein, Be it therefore made known, Published & declared & we do hereby publish & declare to all Mankind but more especially to the good Subjects of their aforesaid Majesties within this province yet for the aforementioned Reasons &ca we are constrained to take up arms in defence of their Majesties Supremacy over this province & the Conversation of the peace & welfare of their Subjects within the same together with the rights & preveliges of this City untill the arrivall of his said Excellency or his Majesties farther OrdersAnd to hereby require command & desire all their Majesties loving Subjects within this province to aid & assist us fo the end aforesaid Farther protesting Against the said Major Ingoldesby & his Confederates illegal unwarrantable & undue practices, & that none do presume to Aid & assist him, or them therein, as they will answer for the blood Shed & other damages, & ill Consequinces, that Shall be committed, Sustained, or accrue thereby but on the Contrary do forbid the same, Yet he the said Major & others his Confederates & accomplices do totally desist from all unwarrentable practices whatsoever & return to the peace of our Sovereign Lord & Lady William & Mary, King & Queen of England Scotland France & Ireland defenders of the faith &c. as they are in duty bound, according to their several Stations & relations, this done & caused to be forthwith published at fort William this 5th of March in the third year of their Majesties reign Anno Dom 169~ THE MAGISTRATES OF WESTCHESTER C~ TO COLL. GRAHAM. Westchester March 8 1691 Sa-The occasion of troubling your Honour att this time is to acquaint thatt there is number of People in this County who haue Richard Penton at their head who doe denie the Government and Vilify all authoretie in this County yea declaring thatt the Corn LIEUT. GOV. LEISLERo 331 ander in Chiefes his Administration of the Government to be without Authoroty and all proceedings under him to be Illegal upon That foundation they glory Themselves of a Turne; and are so bold to publicly declare themselves Leisler's men which they presumptiously without regard or respect To Law haue abused the Justices in Executing there office by ill wordes animating Each other; so thatt itt is to be feared; they haue no better intention than a New Rebellion, to prevent which if the Principall Ringleaders might be sent for to New Yorke and there secured itt might prevent the Mescheife of Tumultuos Breaking the Geiyle here in this County for such things haue been threatned; If such as oune Penton to be there Major & Penton declares to be his Captain and others thatt dare and threaten ye under Sheriffe in the Executing of his office be fetcht doune It may preuent further trouble the Person Principally concernd is Richard Penton & one Robert Bloomer and such others as you may be informed further by the Report and affidavets hereinclosed all which is sent you by the undersheriffe who can declare further The aspect of ye times and the Common Safety of the County oblidgeth us to give you this trouble Desiring, thatt according to our bounden Duty our humble Indeavors & Service be presented to the Cormander in Chiefe and Councell Wee Subscribe ourselves Sr your Honours obliged and humble Servants JOHN PELL JOHN PALMER WILLIAM BABNES Addressed, To ye Honble James Greyham Esqr theire Magesties Attorney Generall in New Yorke 332 ADMINISTRATION OF SEC'Y CLARKSON TO COLL. WILLET. GENTLEMEN-In answer to yours of the 6th Inst. The Genil of their Majties Councill here suppose their former Lettr sufficient on their part for your proceeding forward to this place wth the men you have call'd togather for their Majties service & necessary aid of their forces latly sent from England for the protection of this Colony. They admire you sould suffer any delay in this affair since all your saftles as well as the peace of this citty depends upon your timely appearance on this occasion. Great numbers of armd men daily resort to the fort here and it may be reasonably feared som designes are on foot agt their Majties intrest and the quiet of their good subjects in this province. I am desired to acquaint you that you are to preserve the peace by all means in your March hither. The Rest is Left to your discretion. To Levt Coll Thomas Willett 8 March 1690. Hartford March 11 1690-1. HONOURED Sr —Yours of the 4th Instant with its Inclosed we receiued, & as we haue been much rejoyced in the news of their Maties pleasure to make his excelencie Col: Slauter the Governor of their prouince of New York & that he is dayly hopefully expected there, so is it or greife to hear that those Honble persons named of his excelencies councill with the souldery obtayne no better Treatment with Captn Leisler, then you giue us an accot of & that the peace of the citty comes under Jealousies or hazard. In complyance with your desires to vs for aduice we haue writ to Captn Leisler & have Inclosed it open which please to peruse & seal & deliuer it him as you shall be ordered by the Honble Gentlemen of the councill It may seem a mean thing to aduise to peace &c as we haue done & to reflect a supposition of the contrery on captn Leisler which after the maner of his late dealings with vs may find but slight acceptance but as things are we can say no lesse to him nor more to your selfe & the Gentn of the LIEUT. GOV. LEISLER. 333 councill & all concerned, then as much as is possible to auoyd contest with Captn Leisler & rather to bear any thing tolerable & redressible till his excelencies arriuall, then to use any force till then, & as for those aduices we haue formerly giuenmCaptn Leisler it was onely to Secure as much as in vs lay theire Maties Interest, & we are not with out considerable greiuences from him: which time we hope will giue us an opportunety to Imparte for a better vindication then we can hope for from him. If he should proceed to such rashnesse as to use hostillity against the citty upon notice thereof we must attend what we find to be or duty to their Matite we hope God in mercy will prevent such things by means of the councills pruedence. pray pesent or humble Seruice to his excelencie If arriued & to the Honble Col. Dudley with those Genta Named of the councill which with respects to your selfe is all at present from Sr your freinds & seruants the Governor & Councill of their Maties colony of Conecticut p their order Signed p JOHN ALLYN Secry Please to.conceale our mode of conueyance to Captni Leisler Address These For the Honoured Mr M: Clarkson Secretry of their Maties Province of New Yorke in N Yorke post haste this for his Maties Speciall Seruice Hartford March 11th 1690-1 HONOURED SR-We lately receiued a letter dated 4th instant subscribed by mr Clarkson Secretry wherein is Inclosed a coppy of an order from Six Gentn named of the councill to sayd Secretry to Informe us of some violence used by some souldiers from the forte at Newyorke to a Sargt & three Sentinells as they were passing in the streets of the city upon the rownds & that being Imprissoned by you Major Ingoldsby their chiefe commander desired theire release but obtayned it not, but was wrot to by you that he had not to doe there which with other Circumstances of a 334 ADMINISTRATION OF trobleous aspect glues them occasion to desire our aduice, & Assistence, we cannot but on the sayd Signification, as theire Maties subjects & loueing Neighboures to the Jurisdiction of New yorke send you our aduice & desires That in as much as no reasonable doubt can be made but that the Ships & Gentlemen arriued doe corn in subordination to his excelencie Col: Slauter & that his excelencie as Governor from theire Maties is dayly expected at Newyorke that therefore you so act & demean your selfe as may noe wayes violate their Maties subjects peace & safety, & what may occur of controuersy between your selfe & those Honble persons of the councill so named be deferred as to decission till his excelencies arriuall (which we pray God to Hasten) to doe otherwise we think will not be your Interest, & though we haue occasion but too much to be sencible of the smale Interest we haue in you, yet we designe nothing in this, but what may Tend to their Maties Interest, & whereas your profession hath been that upon their Maties orders you will deliuer the forte accordingly we hope we shall here of your dutifull Complyance therewith all, which will prevent any farther trouble to vs which with or respects is all at p'sent from the Govr & councill of the colony of Conecticutt p their order signed JOHN ALLYN Secry Addressed These For Capt Jacob Leisler, Esq in the forte & New Yorke This [Translation.] BROTHERS and beloved Subjects of their Majisties in Queens Kounty! We are informed and have remarked that the parties in New Yorck are now so violent that the danger of the whole County being bathed in blood is most imminent; and as many of the Chiefs on both sides call for Peace., it is therefore considered by many as the best and only means for King's County and Queens County to proceed all together tomorrow at noon to the Ferry LIEUT. GCVo LEISLER. 335 and to write together a Peace address, that all private questions may remain in statu quo and each continue in his place until the arrival of the Governor Slater or his Majties further orders and that on both sides each shall allow his people to depart to their homes. We sincerely trust that it will be signed by both parties such as we have given some idea of it for we miust act herein as a third party. It is therefore our earnest request, and we testify also herein our innocence of any bloodshed and of all mischiefs which may arise thro' neglect of their duty Your affectionate friend G. BEEKMAN Major Kings Flatbush March 12 County 169l SECY CLARKSON TO THE PEOPLE OF FLATBUSH. WHEREAS divers of ye Inhabitants of long Island and other parts of the Province have already shown their willingness to serve their Maties in coming hither to the assistance of their forces. I am directed by the Gent1n of the Council to acquaint you yt it would be very acceptable to them & shall be so represented to his excellency, Coll. Sloughter, yt you exprest yr zeal for their Majties service as yr neighbours have done To the Inhabitants of flack-bos. 13 March 169~ SEC'Y CLARKSON TO ESQUIRE PLATT. I am directed by the GentIn nominated in and of their Majtys Counsill to forward to you the inclosed declaration to the intent that all there Majties good subjectes may be satisfied of ye reassonablenesse of what is acted here for there Majties servis, and allthough in respect of yor remoatenesse they haue beene hetherto Vnwillinge to dessire yor assistance for the Suport of their Majties Intrest in this Cittie & partes adjacent, Yet the haue thought 336 ADIINISTRATION OF fitt to Let you know that if Captn Lashler shall by drawinge greater Numbors of peopell to the fort Vrge a Nessessitie for it that you will as becpmeth his Majtis dutiefull Subjects bee ready to furnish such ayd of men out of yor Countie as there sd Majtis servis may require which will bee Signified to you as there may bee Occation you are dessired to Publish this Lettr & declaration & soe to convey them from Towne to Towne through yor Countie To All officers Civill & Millitary in ye County of Suffolk 14 March 9 f JA. EBENETYS PLAT Esq. at his house in Huntington SEC. CLARKSON TO COL. TOWNLEY &c. SIR-I am directed by ye Gent1n of their Majties Council for this Province to acquaint you yt yr Comp herewth wt forces you can conveniently raise. will be acceptable to ym & seems necessary for their Majties Service & the prevention of great mischiefs unto this Citty & pts adjacent wth wt speed you possible can yr humble servt To Coll Townley M. C. Sec Capt Bowne 14 March 169 SEC. CLARKSON TO MAJR INGOLDESBY. New York 15th March 1690-1. These are by Advice & Direction of the Gentlemen of their Majistyes Councill of this Territory to Inform you of ye: necessity that this City & ye parts adjacent Stand in of ye assistance of your self & yr Majistys good subjects of your County, for ye support & ye preuenton of outrages, justly feared from ye dayly Coming of forces unto ye fort of this place & to Desire that you LIEUT. GOV. LEISLER. 337 will rayse & bring hither with what speed may be so many as are Willing & ready to Shew yr Loyalty in Joyning with their Majestyes forces here to save themselves & this City from Confusion & blood. Let such as follar you be well armed & care shall be taken for Quarters for them, & of ye Improvement of y' Majestyes Service in all things by Endorsed Sr your To Majr Ingoldy 15 March. WHEREAs there is just reason to aprehend that some ill designe is on hand by. Jacob Liesler & those adhering to him for the disturbing if not distroying the wellfare of their Majties good Subjects in this Citty together with their forces & stores of Amunition by. the Continual Alarms we have from ym and their gathing together in the fort and Whereas we are well asured if yt due regard to their Majties intrest here and the good & wellfare of this place I have thought fitt by & wth the Consent of ye gentlemen named of their Majties Councill to desire and require you on their Majties behalf yt you will Wt Speed Possible Assist their Majties forces in ye preservation of their Majties Subjects and Stores here from any Violence wch Such a number of Armed Men out of all yr towns in yr County as can possible be spared and here due Care shall be taken for their maintenance and quarters So I heartily bid you farewell To all Officers Millitary & Civill in Kings County On Long Island. EndorsedDirck Janse Ammerman Amesfoo rt Michiel hanse Bruckland Peter Strycker Midwout 16 March 169-! VOL. II. 22 338 ADMINISTRATION OF SEC. CLARKSON TO CAPT JACKSON OF HEMPSTEAD. To Capt Jackson It being observed that there are few of you town of Hemsted and some other towns adjacent in this City at this time & being assured of ye readiness of your people for yr Majestys Service I am directed by ye Gentlemen named of yr Majestys Council to write to you advising you to draw together so many of ye Soldiers as are inclind to follow you & March them Hither forthwith to assist yr Majtics forces here tht No Mischeif happen to ye City by ye present armed force in ye fort SEC. CLARKSON TO COLL. TREAT. HoNBLE SR —by direction of ye Gentlemen nominated of there Majties Counsel of this Province I addressed a Lettr to yor Honr ye 4th Instant givinge you to Vnderstand what matter occurred at that tyme in this place Since uch Captn Lashler hath by frequent Allarums & Severall other wayes drawne together all Sutch disaffected persons as ware found in the Neighboriehod of this place having payed & deteyned Severall Boates & goods in a hostile manor & by menacies threates & Severall other Vndue & disorderly practisses givin Just Occation to the Gentlemen of there Majties Counsell to Suspect his intentions & that hee may haue some designe Vpon his Majties Stores of Amunition & those forces Sent by there Majties for the Suport of this Governemt & Whereas they Canot but Conceive you will deeme yor Selfes deepely Conserned in the preservation of there Majties Intrest in this province they haue therefore thought fitt to accquainte you with what hath passed here & to dessire yor Neighborly Assistance in this Exigencie for the Suport of theire Majties good Subjects by afordinge vs Sutch ayd of Armed Men as can bee moast Speedely bee drawne together from the Neighboring Townes to the number of three or four hundred & due care will bee here taken for theire Kind entertainement & that they bee well quartered & provided for with icctuals LIEUT. GOV. LEISLER. 339 I haue here inclosed Sent you a coppie of there Last declaration for yr more ampell information. I am further directed to acquaint you that ye Gentlemen have before ym your letter of ye Instant & your good aduice yrin is acceptable to them & to assure you that all possible Methods are & have been taken to saue ye effusion of blood & purely to secure ourselves yr Majesties forces & this City from mine & Judge no Other method then what is above viz: by your assistance to shew yt we are able to support ours selves will secure us In which you must allow the gentlemen upon the place best to vnderstand ye necessity & if after Mischeifs happen we can but humbly represent to yr.Majesty's our care & sollicitude for ye support preservation & peace of ye place where we are, & from which we shall be forced to depart & leave all things a prey to ye rage of very ill Men if his Majestys subjects Next us, shall not do what is propper on yr parts. ye Governt perceive his Majestys subjects of ye Next town very ready to offer yr assistance but were not willing to do any thing of themselves to aduise or allow yr comeing without yr directions & therefore do again lay it before you & pray your speedy & plain resolution herein. Endorsed To Coll Treat 16 March 169 ~ [Fragment.] COMMISSION TO MAJR INGOLDSBY TO COMMAND THE TROOPS AT NEW YORK That having duly considered the unavoidable necessity of puting their Majties good subjects in a posture of Defence against the depredations oppressions frequent alarms and Thretts of Jacob Leisler and his accomplices and for the securing the peace of this province, wee have Desired the Honrble Majr Rich: Ingoldesby The Chief Comander of their Majties forces sent hither to take into his care and charge the defending their Majties subjects in this province from any ourtagious and hostile proceedings what 340 ADMINISTRATION OF so-ever in such maner and by such proper & just means as to him shall seem reasonable Till such time as his excellency Coll'11 Hen: Slaughter shall arrive or their Majties pleasure shall be farther known and wee Desire that all his Majties ubjects will yeild obedience to the said Majr accordingly God Save King William & Queen Mary DECLARATION OF LEISLER AND HIS PARTY AGAINST MAJOR INGOLDSBY AND HIS COUNCIL. 16 MARCH 1691. [From a Dutch Manuscript in State Department.] WE The Lieft. Governor & Council, Burghers and other Inhabitants of this Province, City & County of New York, loyal subjects of their Majesties King WILLIAM and Queen Mary, in the presence of God, of Angels, and of Men declare some of the reasons of our urgent and pressing efforts and (with Gods help) Resolutions &c to defend their said Majesties' Dignity and supremacy in & over this Province, the Protestant Religion, and to Secure ourselves and our Posterity against all power authority or force derived from the late King James or any holding, acting from or under him, or claiming to do so by virtue of the Great Seal or other Signet whatever it may be, which has been or now is again delivered to any person whomsoever, be their pretentions, Interpretations, or explanations ever so plausible, to disguise, revive or encourage the same; notwithstanding those who would Invade our Rights and perpetrate their evil designs, ignorant of the Truth of our Actions falsely & speciously represent us in the most horrible and hateful light to the World: THAT on Major Richard Ingoldesby's arrival with his Majestys troops, proper accommodations were offered for himself, his people & ammunition until the arrival of his excellency Colonel Sloughter; or until he should exhibit his Majesty's orders regarding us. THAT the said Major hath rejected our offer, demanding the absolute possession of his Majesty's said fort by the refusal of which the Lieut. Governr was then to be considered an enemy LIEUT. GOV. LEISLER. 341 of their Majesties King William & Queen Mary; the said Major having not the smallest direction or order on the subject from their Majesties or Collonell Sloughter. THAT said Major hath issued a Mandate to raise forces in this province, inviting and deterring their Majesties faithful subjects, pretending to have Commission from their Majesties for so doing, though he really could not produce any when thereunto requested. THAT said Major and his Confederates have obstructed and Controled the Mayors Court of this City and contemned the Civil authority thereof contrary to the terms which he promised to observe on which condition he had the use of the City hall to quarter his troops. THAT, notwithstanding the aforesaid Conditions, the said Major did take upon him to Superintend the Militia of this City, asserting that no one should go the rounds but himself That the said Major or Confederates did suffer and permit armed soldiers under his command, in contempt of the King's Lieut Governor to pass his Majesty's fort more than 8 times in one night thereby to provoke said Lieut. Governor to commit some hostile act, which we allow the World to judge of. THAT the said Major & Confederates have caused a false interpretation to be given to a certain plain letter sent him to forbid and not to allow any such irregular proceedings, viz. his people to pass the fort as Rounds &c.-insinuating thereby among good Subjects, that the said Lieut. Governor did not consider him and his Majesty's soldiers worthy to tread the soil of this Provincethat said Lieut. Governor kept this Province for some foreign Prince or State; though the Words in truth will bear no such construction, as by said letter will appear THAT contrary to a declaration of the said Major dated the,2d Feb wherein he promises that no one under his command shall disturb any of his Majesty's good Subjects, he and his confederates not only continue in prison but strip and beat divers of said subjects who were about their lawful employments & innocent occasions THAT the said Major and confederates have fomented & invented seditious distinctions among his Majesty's Subjects of the 342 ADMINISTRATION OF English & Dutch Nations, whereby woeful divisions have arisen to a degree of hate that threatens the destruction of each other if not seasonably prevented. THAT the said Major hath upheld, encouraged and protected avowed Papists in arms who act insolently and put the good Inhabitants in fear of their lives by presenting loaded muskets at their bodies when employed, according to their duty, in the King's Service That the said Major &ca. have forbidden the Lieut. Governor's Officers to proclaim an order by beat of drum, or to pass before the City Hall the customary place thereof, for divers persons both officers and others deserters from Albany and Esopus, to shew cause for quitting their posts and did and do countenance & entertain the said deserters amongst the rebelleous crowd to the abatement & discouragement of his Maties Service THAT said Major &c. have maintained, employed and entertained some of the French Nation suspected Papists to spy and to betray their majesties fortress by night who were taken in the very fact Extraordinarily armed. THAT the said Major &ca (id seize and stop a boat & people sent for Wood for the use of his Majesty's garrison, ill treating and abusing them without the least cause or provocation. THAT the said Major &ca did surprise at night the Centinels who were placed for the safekeeping of this City's fortification, thus determining to make himself master thereof like an enemy in a declared War. THAT divers gentlemen named of the Council, have approved, excited and encouraged the said Majors unjustifiable and perni.cious behaviour herein by directing their orders to Officers appointed by authority from the late King James who by virtue of said Com.missions, pursuant to said Council's said orders, have levied & continue to levy forces in divers parts of the Province to strengthen and prosecute their Godless designs; which said Councillors together with said Major have assumed the governing power in and over this Province which they have exercised by assembling, and making Judicial acts, without exhibiting or declaring the least power or order from his present Majesty so to do, notwith LIEUT. GOT. LEISLERW 343 standing application has been made to them for satisfaction therein. THAT the said Major, Councillors & Confederates or their mandates have declared and branded all who deny their authority or do not obey their notices and orders, with the Infamous name of Rebels, tho' their signal Loyalty is Manifest to the whole Province. THAT the said Major hath demanded the key of the City gates which being refused, he hath violently burst the locks and broke them open. THAT the sd Major &ca hath formally demanded the surrender of the Blockhouse belonging to this City, as if there were actual war between him, his Confederates and his Majesty's faithful subjects. That sd gentlemen of said Council have, further, abetted, connived at and contributed to and encouraged divers of the rebellious forces by quartering them in their houses and comforting them THAT one of the Citizens who was seized and abused by an officer under said Major's command without any cause or provocation, was actually beaten by the said Major & reviled for being assistant to the Lieut Governor THAT a certain Blasphemous Privateer with others confederates & accomplices by and with the said Major did ill treat & cruelly wound certain messengers sent by said Lieut Governor to the said Major to demand some persons unwarrantably made prisoners., THAT in consequence of the illegal proceedings of the said Major together with those of said Council and Confederates, the Tax which was granted by the Assembly for the support and payment of the expences of the Government during the present war is wholly prevented, whereby the forces levied for their Majesties extraordinary service at Albany are discouraged, who for want of support it is feared may be forced to desert that post on which the security of this province principally depends. BESIDES, The constant menaces & threats against his Majesty's garrison by those who under the government of the late King James advised and contributed to the encouragement of papists priests & seminary to the great discouragement and dimnution 344 ADMINISTRATION OF of the true protestant Religion influencing & operating by the authority of said King alarmed their Majesties subjects for their lives and Liberties until (thro' Gods blessing) his present Majesty's successful arms pushed the point in such a manner, that no more hope was left them. They were then forced to profess Loyalty to their Most august Majesties as a cloak, whereby they may possess better opportunity and advantages to avenge themselves on those who were instrumental in depriving them of power to accomplish the former Godless designs and machinations which they set on foot with other loose, debauched and dissolute persons of a robbing and plundering habit of Life watching until they have their opportunity, to make their attacks & spoliations. Of these there hath been due warning and advice by divers declarations and protestations &ca hoping that they may thereby reflect and desist, if not reduced,from said practices. But so it is, all moral means thereunto have been without effect'still persisting and increasing their numbers both by a crowd of papists and french whose greatest hope is considered to be from these friends, being approved apostates from the Protestant Church and equal destroyers of it, not hesitating to declare their Bloody Resolutions of which they have been convicted & the perpetration of which would endanger the whole Province WHEREFORE being unwilling to deliver Ourselves and descendants with our Properties to be reduced to such a miserable state & Condition as the above related particulars certainly threaten, WE have RESOLVED & DO RESOLVE to resist the same to the utmost of our power, at the hazard of our lives & properties; united with & assisted by our said Lieut. Governor and each other, for the maintenance of that Law & Liberty which God & our Gracious Sovereign have granted us, abhorring & detesting all such as Brand us with the opprobrious and undeserved character of Rebels, whereby they would withdraw us from our duty to God, the King and Ourselves to become a prey to their Implacable malice & Violence; with firm confidence that having made so plain and clear an offer, namely That every thing should remain in the former inoffensive condition until his Excellency Coll Sloughter's arrival or until the appearance of his Majesty's LIEUT. GOV. LEISLER. 345 orders concerning us which is now wished for in the highest degree, by all his Majesty's Loyal subjects and true protestants who will approve hereof, being driven to our last refuge and means of relief. Wherefore we are forced to declare the said Major his evil councillors and all their confederates to be enemies to God, their present Majesties & the peace & welfare of this people and Province so long as they continue in such state and proceedings. Thereby forbidding them to continue in hostility or to commit or persist in any of the aforesaid unwarrantable practices, but to the eontrary, that they altogether recede and desist from their pernicious designs, intentions and purposes, or aiding or otherwise encouraging them; and that they do forthwith discharge & disband all the said forces which have been raised within this Province or elsewhere, which are hereby commanded forthwith to return & repair to their several places of abode and stations and to keep the peace of our Sovereign Lord the King as they will answer the consequences which may ensue, by the contrary, to God, their Majesties or his Excellency Col. Sloughter &c-whether Bloodshed or other Mischiefs or Damages, the effects of their so just provocations, it being our stedfast resolutions to pursue and destroy all such as shall henceforth be found under those wicked circumstances aforesaid; trusting in Almighty God to deliver us from & to render us victorious over their Majesties & our enemies & such impious and unreasonable men. THUS done at Fort William March 16th in the 3d year of the reigne of their Majesties William & Mary King & Queen of England &c Anno Dom 1690. God save King William & Queen Mary. 346 ADIINISTRATION OFTHE COUNCIL'S ANSWER TO LEISLER'S DECLARATION. In Answerr to the Letter this morning from Captt Leisler to Major Ingoldesby &c That the Severall Articles of Accusation both agst themselves and the Said Major Ingoldesby in the Said Letter contained are altogether mistaken or false aspersion and Calumnies and no otherwise That the Sd Gentlemen Officers and Soldiers are Immediately Commissionated by King William and haue Sattisfied all persons that haue desired it in the right of the Said power and are at this time in the Service of their Majties King William & Queen Mary and of no other power whatsoever. That they Intend and haue in all their Consultacons advices and Directions by word and writeing to their Majties Soldiers as well as other their Maties good Subjects of this Province taken care for the preservation and peace of themselves this Citty and parts adjacent and that no hostilityes on their part be vsed in any kind whatsoever That they are willing and desirous that there be no manner of hostility and blood between their Majties Subjects but that the people in armes who have voluntarily assembled themselves in, defence of their Majties forces and their owne Security be contented to beare themselves with all regard to the peace of this Citty and patiently Expect the Arrivall of his Excellency or his Majties further Comands and m case this be not accepted they shall attribute the Ruine & Death of their Majties Subjects and the destruction of this Citty and Province to the Sd Capn Leisler or whosoever else shall make the breach vpon them & the projectors Actors and Abettors of Such hostility against vs are publick Enemies to the Crown of England and their Majtie3 King William and Queen Mary Dated at the Statehouse Seaventeenth day of March In the third yeare of the Reigne of our Soveraign Lord and Lady King William & Queen Mary over England e( Anno Dom: 169f LIST OF THE COMMISSIONS ISSUED BY LT GOVR LEISLER. No. Name. Office Place. Date. 3 Obadia Holmes Justice of the Peace Richmond 12 Dec 1689 4 John Coe High Sheriff Queens 13 " 5 Gerardus Beekman Justice Kings 12 c " 6 John Howell Justice Suffolk 12 c c" 7 Roelof Martense Justice Kings 12 " " 8 Jeronimes Rapallie Justice Kings 12 " 10 Nicholas Stilwell Justice Kings 13 11 Johannes Jansen Highsheriffe New York 14" " 12 John Tredwell Justice Queens 13 " 13 Nathaniel Cole Justice Queens 13 Q 14 Myndert Coerte High Sherifie Kings 13 " 15 Matthias HarveyJustice Queens 13' 16 Samuel Edsall Justice Queens 13 17 Nathaniel Denton Justice Queens 13 " "c 18 Richard Smith Justice Suffolk 14" " 19 Thomas Stathan High Sheriff Westchester 14 " " 20 Joseph Pudway Justice Westchester 14 6 21 Richd Ponton Justice Westchester 14' " 22 Andrew Tauvet Justice Westchester 14" "l 23 Samuel Molferd Justice Suffolk 14 " " 24 Edward Waters Justice Westchester 14 " " 25 Thomas Mapes Justice Suffolk 14 " 26 Ebnezer Platt Justice Suffolk 14 " " 1 Renewed 28th MLay 1690. LIST OF THE COMMISSIONS ISSUED-CoNrTI-vUED. No. Name. Office. Place. Date. 27 Thomas Williams Justice Westchester 14 Dec 1689 28 Jaques Poullion Justice Richmond 14 "" 29 William Lawrence Justice Orange 14 30 Theunis Roelofzen Justice Orange 14 " 31 Ely Crosson High Sheriff Richmond 14 32 Matthew Howell High Sheriff Suffolk. 14 " 33 Daniel deClercq Justice Orange 14 " 34 Thomas Morgan Justice Richmond 14' 35 Jacob Gerrittse Justice Richmond 14u g 36 Henry Cuyler Major of foot New York 16 " 37 Robert Walter Capt South ward N York 16 "' 38 Isaac de Riemer Lieut Walters comp. N York 16 " " 39 Jacobus vander Spiegell Ensign same N York 16u 40 Sivert Olphertse Capt -west ward N York 16 " 41 Paulus Turck Lieut same N York 16 " 42 Peter White Ensigne same N York 17 " 43 Abraham de Peyster Captain " Dock Ward N York 13 " 45 Johannes de Peyster Lieut same N York 13 c "c 46 Peter de Mill Ensigne same N York 13 47 Gerrit Duyckingk Captain "North Ward N York 16 " 48 Hendrick Ten Eyck Lieut same N York 17 49 Joannes Beeckman Ensign same N York 17u 50 John de Browne Captain East ward N York 17 51 Jaques Puillion Captain Richmond 18 62 Peter Verbrugh Lieutent de Brown's Co. N. York 17 " " 53 Ab1m Brasher Ensigne " same New York 17 c cc 54 Adriaen Cornelis" Van Schayck Captain out Ward N. Y. 16' C 55 Peter D'Lanoy Collector N York t1 66 77 same Mayor N York 12 cc " 57 Daniel ter Neur Lieutenant Van Schayck's Co. 18 "4 " 58 John Slott EnsignV S's Comp. 18 " " 59 Thomas Morgan Lieutenant Richmond 18 6" 60 Seger Gerritsen Ensign Richmond 18i 6 61 William Bogardus Notary Pub. New York 17 c Ebenezer Platt Justice&DedimusPotest. L: I & Westch. 18 " " oelof Swartwout same Ulster 26 c cc' 6,2 ci {Jochem Staas same Albany ( John iHowell same Suffolk 63 same Clerk c18 c " 64 same Collector 419 " 66, 7 Cornelis Corsen Justice & Capt. Richmond 19 M 68 Cornelis Nevius Ensign 19 CC " 70 Edward Collier Clerk Westchester 20 c c 71 Jacobus Van de Water Clerk Kings 20 " u " 73 James Evetts Searcher & Waiter N York 17' 75 Gerret Cornelisse Justice Kings 19 76 Abrah: Gouverneur Clerk N York20 78 Daniel Danton Clerk Queens 20 " "c 79 Hendricus Beeckman Justice Ulster 24 C 80 Willm Haynes Justice Ulster 24 81 Jacob Aertse Justice Ulster 24 " 82 Gysbert Crom Justice Ulster 24 " " LIST OF THE COMMISSIONS ISSUED-CoNTTINUED. No. Name, Office. Place' Date. 8391 Abrahm Haesbrooc Justice & Capt the Paltz Ulster 24 Dec 1689 84 98 Roelof Swartwout Justice & Collectr Ulster 24 6 85 Wm de Lamontagne High Sheriff Ulster 24 86 Nicolaes Anthony Clerk Ulster 24 87 Thomas Chamber Major Ulster 24 88 Matthys Matthyssen Captain Kingtown 24 89 Johannes de Hooges Capt Hurley 24 90 Thomas Teunis Quick Capt. Marble 24 " 94,5 Richd Pretty Collectr & Sheriff Albany 28 " 97 Johannes Cuyler Clerk Albany 28 " 99 David Christoffelse Justice Schanectade 28 " 100 Reyer Jacobse Justice 2 101 Myndert Wemp Justice 28 " 102 Reynier Schaets Justice 28 " " 103 Douwe Auckus Justice a 28 6 o 108 John Townsend Justice Queens 13 109 John Simmons Junr Justice Queens 3 " 110 Thomas Lawrence Major of Horse Queens 30 111 Joseph Smith Capt foot Hemstead 30 112 Content Titus Capt. " Newtown 30 " 113 Gerardus Beeckman Major of Horse Queens c 114 Pieter Strycker Capt foot Flackbush 27 c c 115 Symon Janse Lieut Flackbush 27 "' 116 Isaac Hegeman Ensign Flackbush 27' 117 Jost Koockuyt Capt of foot Bushwick 27 6 118 Nicolaes Stilwell Capt "C Gravesandt 27' g 119 Michell Hanse Capt foot Breukelen 27 120 Coort Stevense6 " fflatlands 27 " 4' 121 Jan Hanse 4 44 N: Utrecht 27 "4 122 James Evetts Collector excise New York 17'C 123 Thomas Lammerse Lieut Breuckelen 27 4 e 124 Volkert Hendrickse Ensign 27 4 125 Jan Janse Van Dyke Lieut N: Utrecht 27 4 C 126 Joost V. Brunt Ensign 27 " " 127 Jan Teuniss van Dyckhuyse Lieut flatlands 274 132 Dirck Jansen Ensign 27 C 133 Michiel Palmiter Lieut Buswick 27 " C c 134 Dirck Yolkertse Ens. CC 27 64 135 Ianiell Leeck Lieut Gravesand 27 c C 136 Joghem Gulick Ens. 27 " 137 Jeremiah Borrowes Lieut Newtown 27 C' 138 Jeremiah Smith Ensign Hampstead 2 Jany 1690 139 Robert Coe " Newtown 2 Jany 140 Richard Gildersleef Lieut. Hemsteed 10 141 John Lawrence Capt of Horse Queens 10 142 Jonathan Smith Lieut C 10 4 143 Daniel Lawrence Cornet CC 10 144 Charles Morgan Quarter Mastr CC 10 CC 145 John Theunis Van Pelt Lieut Richmond 19 dec. 89 146 Jacob Corbet Clerk Richmond 18 dec 149 Hope Carpenter Ensign Jamaico10 Jany 90 150 Jonah Wood Liev Jamaico 10 4 LIST OF THE COMMISSIONS ISSUED-CoNTINUED tc No. Nme. OfficePlace. Date. No. Name. 10 Jany 90 151 John lBayly Capt Jamaico 10 Jany 90 152 Richard Osbourne Capt Madnansneck 10 " " 153 John Hobs Lie 10 ~ 154 Joseph Sutton Junr Ensign n 10 " 4 155 Roelof NMartenseSchenk Capt of Horse Kings 13d 156 Gerrit Elbertse Stoothof Lieut 13 157 Joseph Hegeman Cornet3 158 Gerrit Stryker Quarter Master 13 169 Leonard 3Beckett Land Surveyor N York 14 feb 176 Cornelis Claessen Cuyper Capt & JusticeOra8 fb 19 Orange 18 1 7 Johannes Gerritsen Lieut. " 178 Theunis Douw Ensign " 18 179 Edwd Harrington Captain flushing 19 180 John Harrison Lieut 181 Robert Hunksman Ens. o 182 Samuel Moore Capt. Newtown 19 183 Joseph Sucket Lieut. 3 19 184 Gersham More Ensigne 19's 185 Robert Coles Capt. Oisterbay 19 186 Moses Modge Lieut C4 9 187 James Weekes Ens. cc 19 IC C 188 floris Willemse Crom High Sheriff Orange 19 c 189 James Evett Adjutant New York 18 190 Richard Penton Major Westchester 21 191 Barnard Lewis Captain Canada Expedition 26 193 Iarten Clock Lieut 26 194 Jacobus de Warm Ens. 6 26 196 James Mott Justice Westchester 10 G Peter Johnson Coroner Kings 18 c " 201 John Willet Capt. Easthampton 24 Mch 1690 205 Thomas Wicks Capt Huntington 16 Apr. John Wood Lieut 16 C C Thomas Hickly Ens. 16 Johannes Hardenbrock High Sheriff Ulster 30 July 1690 Pieter Jansen Lieut of Horse Kings 29 " 4 Daniel Polhemius Cornet Kings 29 " Humphrey Davenport Clerk Ulster Co 6 Oct " Joseph Smith Justice Queens 6 c Johannes Wendel Mayor Albany 8 Laurens Van Aelen Justice CC C Reyer Jacobse Schermerhoorn 6' " " Barent Pietersen Koeymans C C C C John Thyssen C C cc c Claas Van Pottenr (C C Myndert Harmensen 6C cs cc C Harmen Gansevoort C C C C Jacob Staas C C C CC John Naill CC aC C C Jan Finagel C CC C 6C Jan Janse Bleeker cc C C CC Barent Wemp Captain C C C C Isaac Cornelis Switz Lieut C C (C LIST OF THE COMMIaSSIONS ISSUED-CoNTNTxD. tE -amee. Office. Place. Date. Douwe Aukus Ensigne Albany 8 Oct 1690 Pieter Wogolem Capt c, C Hans Hendricx 64 a 4 t 6 James Campbell Town Mayor 19 Oct " John Bates Lieut fort Orange 15 u John Pell Justice Westchester 30 4 " John Lansing Captain Albany 11 Nov " Reynier Barents Lieut c Abrahm Coyler Ensign Jan Hendrix de Bruyn Major N. York Dec. 20. 1690 Abraham Brasher Sheriff N. York Jan 8. 1691 John Lawrence Sheriff Queens 19. 1691 Dirck Jans Amermen Capt Kings 20 John Albertsen Lieut Kings 20 Albert Courten Ens Kings Jany 20 1691 o Christopher Johnson Romeyn Lieut Gravesend 20 " LIEUT. GOV. LISLEo 355 LAWS PASSED DURING THE ADMINISTRATION OF LIEUT GOV. LEISLER. [From files in Secretary of State's office.] A Bill Confirming to the Inhabitants of this Province the Full Priviledge and Benefitts of his Majties Laws: within this Province Bee It Enacted and it Is hereby Enacted by the Gen11 Assembly and by the Authority of the Same that all and every the Inhabitants of this Province may enjoy and receive the full Priviledge and benefitts of the Lawes of this Province and Thatt no ffreeman be taken or Imprisoned but by Warrant Lawfully issued out and that all Courts of Judicature be duely kept and observed according to the Lawes in that behalfe Provided and that all persons Imprisoned within any Place of this Province be Legally tried by the Lawes of the Land agreeing to the lawes of their Majties Realme of England & for any such persons who are ffled out of this Province be and are hereby required to returne to their respective homes & habitacons wthout trouble or molestacon whatsoever-(within three weeks after Publicacon hereof) but if any crimes are by them Comitted that they be Legally tried before Any Courts of Judicature within this Province as the Lawes do Require and all persons so fled as aforesaid and shall not returne in the said time Shall be deemed and esteemed as Persons disobedient to the Governnt: The reprsentatives have assented to this bill Sept: 18th 1690 (after three times Reading) and orderded it to be Sent to the Governor & his Councill for their Aprobacon JoHN SPrATT Speaker 356 ADMINISTRATION OF A bill for Amending & fining all persons within this Province of newyork refusing to serve in Comission of Civill or Military Power within sd Province under his Majties Lievt Governor of the Province aforesaid & that none of ye Inhabitants of ye City & County of Albany & Ulster Leave or Depart the City or Countys,aforesaid without Spetiall lycense of the said Authority or Carry of or transport from said Places any Wares or Merchandises-except such hereafter exprest. WHEREAS his Majties espetiall service In ye P'sent Warr wth the ffrench & their adherents requires that there be apointed severall Officers Civill & Military for due administering ye Lawes prserving the Peace & keeping the Inhabitants In a good posture of Defence agst said ennemys & that severall persons might not refuse or be backward In serving his said Majtie In any Employment Civill or Military under the Comission of his said Majties Lievt Governor of ye sd Province whereby his said Majties service & Safety of this Province might be much hindred & obstructed BEE it therefore enacted & it Is hereby enacted by the Gen11 assembly & by ye authority of ye same that if any Person or Persons Chosen, nominated, Constituted, ordained or Commissionated by his sd Majties Lievt Governor to serve In any Employment Civill or Military wthin any of ye Countyes of sd Province & shall refuse to accept receive or execute any Comission or Comissions unto him or them directed by the said Lievt Governr that then & in such Case ye Said Person or Persons be amended & fined to pay ye Sume of Seaventy five Pounds Currt money of this Province & by refusall thereof that the same be forthwith strained by Warrant from said Lievt Governr on the goods & Chatties of every Person or Persons so refusing to serve as aforesaid Provided alwayes & be it further enacted that ye sd fine so Payd or strained as aforesaid shall be aplied for his Majties use In suporting & defraying ye Charges of this Prsent Warr against ye ffrench and their adherents in ye City County or toune where the same shall happen to be Payd or strained as aforesaid LIEUT. GOV. LEISLER. 357 & be it further enacted by the Authority aforesaid that all persons who shall Depart ye City & County of albany or County of Ulster being Inhabitants or ffreeholders Without spetiall Lycense from the authority Comissionated by the said Lievt Governr shall forfeit & Pay the sume of one hundred Pounds Currt money to be Levied on ye goods & Chatties of every person or persons so departing as aforesaid & for any such person whose estate shall not amount to the sum of one hundred Pounds that the sd Persons be fined to ye Discrecon of ye Lievt Governr: & his Councill which said sume or fines are to be applyed to the use aforemenconed & that no Wares goods or Merchandises shall be brought doune hudsons River or transported out sd City & Counties wthout such lycense as aforesaid under Penalty of Confiscacon of ye same & to be aplyed to ye use aforesaid except Corn (after sufficient store left for the Militia & Inhabitants of sd City and Counties) bevers & Peltry & other necessaries and be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid that all persons all ready departed from the said City & Countys do returne wthin the time of fourteen dayes after Publicacon hereof (except absolute necessity) at their utmost Perills Octobr 4th 1690: The Representatives have After three times reading this assented to this bill (after Bill is assented to by the Lieu- three times Reading) & orded tenant Governor & Councill this to be sent to ye Lievt Gov4th of October in the second ernr & Councill for their asyear of their Majties Reign anoq: sent dom: 1690 JOHN SPRATT Speaker JACOB LEISLER: 358 ADMINISTRATION oF E[. Y. Council Min,] NIEW YORKE, the 19th day of March Anno: 169 ~Annoq R R & Re Willmi & Marine iiito &c Present His Excell: Gab. Monviele Jos. Dudley Chid Brooke ffred Phillip Tho. Willett Step. V. Cortlandt Willa Pinhorne -His Excellency Henry Sloughter Esq Captaine Generall & Governour in Chiefe over this Territory and Vice Admirall of these seas arrived at New Yorke and repaired to the Town hall of this Citty and there in the presence of the People Published their Matyes Lres Patents for the Government of this Province and Territory of New Yorke in America and parts annexed and had the oaths by Act of Parliamt appointed insteade of the oaths of Allegiance and Supremacy and the oath for the Due Administracon of his Government Given him by the Members of their Matyes Council underwritten administred to him and ordered the said Letters Patents be recorded And forthwith Ordered Major Ingoldesby with his foot Company to Demand Entrance into the ffort who returned and brought with him Joost Stool who was admitted to the Governour and brought a Letter from Capt Leisler and received answer that His Excellency was Glad that Stoll had Seen him in England as well as now att New Yorke and that Majr Ingoldesby with his Compy should now goe the second time to receive the ffort into possession That the Souldiers laying down their armes might goe every man to his house that he Expected that Leisler Milbourne and such as are called his Council Doe immediately attend and that Coll. Bayard and Mr Nicolls be dismissed from their Imprisonment to attend his Matyes Service being appointed Members of the Council. Majr Ingoldesby at his second returne brought with him Milbourne and Delanoy and being Enquired of for Coll Bayard and. Mr Nicolls the two Gentln of the Council informed that Leisler refused to mak any attendance himselfe or to Dismisse the said Gentlemen Whereupon Milbourne and Delanoy were Committcd to the Cu.ard.. and the Maji again Sent to Demand the sd Gentle LEUT. GOV. LEISLBE. 369 men's Dissmission Leisler's Surrender of the ffort and attendance upon his Excellency all which was peremptorily and with Contempt refused and then the Governor directed the Sitting of the Council in the Morning, The Councill Mett 20th March 169 - Present His Excellency the Governour Joseph Dudley Chidley Brooke ffred Philips Tho Willet Esqrs Steph. V. Cortlandt Esqs Willm Pinhorne Geo. Monveile Delivered to the Secy. 29 papers sent by their Matyes relateing to Leisler alsoe five papers sent from Albany. Coil Bayard and William Nicolls were sworne of the Council and took their places at the board. Jacob Leisler Was brought Prisoner to this board and was Ordered to be committed to the Guards and took of him the King's letter Directed unto ffrancis Nicholson Alsoe brought Prisoners Abraham Governeur Gerrard Beeckman Willm Churcher Cornelius Plevier Henrick Janse Van Boerton William Laurence Thomas Williams John Coe Myndert Coarton Robt Leacock Johannes Vermillie who were Committed to the Guards. *LEISLER TO GOV. SLOUGHTER. Fort William March the 20. 1690-1 MAY IT PLEASE YOUR EXCELLENCY-This his Majestys fort being besieged by Major Ingoldesby so farre that not a boat could depart, nor Persons conveyed out of the same without to be in danger of their Lives which hath occasioned that I could not be so happy as to send a messinger to give me the certainty of Your excellency's Safe arrival & an account of what was published, of which I am ignorant still but the Joy I had by a full assurance from Ensign Stoll of your Excellency's arrival has been something troubled by the detencon of Ye two my Messengers, I see very well the stroke of my enemies who are wishing to cause me some 360 ADMINISTRATION OF mistakes at the End of the Loyalty I owe to my gracious King & Queen & by such ways to Blatt out all my faithfull service till now but I hope have care to commit such an error, having by my duty & faithfulnesse being vigerous to them, Please only to Signify & order the Major in releasing me from his Majesties fort delivering him only his Majesties Armes with all the Stores & that he may act as he ought with a person who shall give Your excellency an exact account of all his actions & conduct, who is with all the request, Your Excellency's Most Humble Servt JACOB LEISLER [From the Office files.] To His Excellency Colonel Henry Sloughter Capn Gen11 & Governor of their Maties Province of New York &c THE humble Peticon of Capn Jacob Leisler, Peter DeLanoy, Gerardus Beeckman, Thos Williams, Johannes Vermelje, William Lawrence, Hendrick Jansen, Robt LeCock, & Jacob Milborne: SHEWETH THAT Yor Petitionrs are certified by Capn Blagge, that after hearing of their Case set forth in an humble Peticon to the Kings most Excellent Matie & Councill, he received for answer: vizt That Copies of all Papers Thereunto relating should be giuen your Excy To judge of matters as they should be found on yor arrivall at New York &c. THAT yor Petrs are under apprehension that yor Exey is enformed that the ffort was Detained (after yor arrivall here) in disobedience to his Matie or yor Excy for some ill designe, when in truth it was purposely kept untill yorselfe appeared, whose arrivall was with paine longed for to discharge them & heale those unhappy troubles which haue arrisen since Major Ingoldesby came hither, as may appear by a Letter sent to Bermuda, & other declarative Testimonialls to the said Major &c whome nothing would suffice but immediate possession of the said Fort, & consequently the Governmt LIEUT, GOV. LEISLER. 361 THAT yor Petitionrs are enformed, they are to be proceeded against by other methods, before their Case be heard by yor Excellency. WHEREFORE yor Petrs humbly Pray yor Excy to vouchsafe a hearing of the matter before yrselfe, allowing such time to prepare themselves as to yor Wisdorme and goodnesse seemeth meete, craving in the meane time Suspencon of other Proceedings against them. And as in duty bound yor Petrs shall pray &c. PETITION OF LEISLER'S COUNCIL. To His Excellency Colonel Henry Sloughter Captn Gen11 & Governor of New York Province &c. The humble Peticon of Peter d'Lanoy, Gerardus Beeckman, Thos Williams, Hendk Janse, Johannes Vermelje, William Laurence, Robt Le Cock, & Jacob Millborne, Members of the late Council to Captn Jacob Leisler, &c. SHEWVETH THAT yor Petitionrs are confined to a Place wch will not admit of common conveniency for life, & nature whereby they are straightned to make such applicacons as becomes them. THAT yor Petitionrs conceive themselves very happy in yor Excellency with assurance that the equity of their case will not abate by so excellent a Chancellor, when seasonable Addresses to yor selfe shall be permitted: Notwithstanding their present circumstances-occasioned (as they suppose) through harsh informacons. WHEREFORE yor Petitionrs wth humble confidence-attend yor Excellency's farther pleasure concerning them. And yor Petitionrs as in duty bound shall pray &c. 362 mADINISTRATION OF [N Y Coune Min] At a Council held the 23d March 169~Present as before & Win Nicholls. Mr Pinhorne abst Coll Dudley Mr Cortlandt & Mr Brookes are appointed a Committe for the Examination of the Prisoners in order to their Mittimus to the Common prison of this Citty-from the Guards where hitherto they have been held and that they proceed therein forthwith, and that they be attended by the Secy and Attorney Generall. At a Council held at ffort William Henry March the 24th 1690. Present as before & Wm Pinhorne. Ordered that there be a Speciall Commison of Oyer and Terminer directed to the Judges whom His Excellency will forthwith name with Sr Robert Robinson Coll. William Smith William. Pinhorne and John Laurence Esqrs Capt Jasper Hicks Majr Richard Ingoldesby Coll John Young and Capt. Isaac Arnold to hold a Court of Oyer & Terminer For the Triall of the Persons imprisoned accused of Rebellion and Murder and their accomplices and they or any six of them one of the Judges always being one to proceed in the said Court. 26 March. 1691. The remaining Prisoners not yet Examined are referred to the former Comitte for Examinacon and such as are by them Judged meet to be dismissed the Prison upon Giving bond of the Good behaviour and attendance at the next Sessions of the peace of this Citty. WARRANT FOR JNACOB LEISLER'S COMlMITMENT TO PRISON. City & County of 1 New-York- - We John Laurence & William Pinhorne EsqS two o their Majesties Justices for keeping of the peace within the City & LIESUT GOT. LEISLER 363 County of New Yorke as also for hearing & determining of divers felonies, trespasses & other misdemeanours within the City & County assigned to the Sheriffe of the said LL. s. City & County Greeting John Lawrence, For that Jacob Leisier late of the City of New York merchant hath been arrested for traiter[L. s.] ously levying war against our Sovereign Lord William Pinhorne & Lady the King & Queene in their realme & province of New York aforesaid for the Counterfeiting their Majesties great seal of said province for felouniously murdering of John, alias Josias Browne of the said City Labourer & for others, high misdemeanours by him perpetrated & done, Therefore in behalf of our Sovereign Lord & Lady the King & Queen, we command you, that you receive the said Jacob Leisler into your Custody & him safely keep untill he shall be thence delivered according to Law & this shall be your sufficient warrant. Given under our hands & Seal the 26th of March in the third year of the reign of our Sovereign Lord & Lady William & Mary King & Queen over England &c 1691 THOMAS CLARKE<. Att a Council held at ffort William Henry the 30th March 1691. Present as before; also Coll. N. Bayard & Wm Smith. Absent W'm Nicolls & Chidley Brooke Coll. Nicholas Bayard Steph V. Cortlandt & Willm Pinhorne Esqrs are appointed a Comitte for preparing of evidences agst the Prisoners and Mr W'a Nichols Mr George ffarewell and Mr James Emmott are assigned of the Kings Council in that affair. At a Council &o April ye 1. 1691 Present the Governr & all the members, except Wm Nicholls An account of Macgregeries buriall slain in their Matyes service appointed to be audited by Mr Collector & Mr Courtlandt and that they also audite all other Accounts of charges before his Excellencys Arrivallo 364 ADMINISTRATION OF DR THORNHILL & DRP KELSOE'S BILL. [From Office files.] An Accompt ffor the Wounded & those Men that were Killed in their Majesties Service against Lisseler and his accomplices To Richard Grenard Saddler ffor curing him a gun shot wound through both hips 15:00:00 To James Yeward for curing him of a in the Shoulder & cutting the bullet out amongst his ribs 15:00:00 To attendance upon Mr Joseph broune in a gun shot wound 00.10,00 To attendance upon Mrs Depeysters negro of a gunshot wound 02.10:00 To weiuing the Bodie of Major Mccrigorie 1 01.00.00 To weuing the Bodie of Mr Pecay 01.00.00 To weuing the bodie of Wessell ten broeke 01.00.00 To weuing the bodie of Leonard Beckwith 01.00.00 To weuing the bodie of Joseph Broune 01.00.00 To weuing the bodie of Mr DePeysters negro 01.00.00 To the curing 1 of his Majesties Souldiers of gunshot wound through both the Humerus & radius 10.00.00 49.00.00 *MEMORANDUM HOW JACOB LEISLER WAS TO PLEAD. I Humbly conceive I am not holden to make my plea on the indictment untill the power be determined whereby Such things have been acted. -That his Majesty has not declared judicially against the power but is yet, (Subjudice) therefore dare not enter into plea, Untill Yet determined which I am ready to appear unto according to the Kings Appointment,1 This is the officer who had been previously Commissioned by Gov. Dongan to go to the far Indians, and was taken prisoner by the French. See Doc. Hist. 1. 258 et seq. His widow and son, Hugh McG. obtained a grant of 1500 acres of land on Hudsons river at a place called John Peaches Creek. No fees were charged for the Patent out of respect for the Major's memory, as he " lately Died in his Matyes service in defence of the Province." LIEUT. GOV. LEISLERt 365 -The Power is to be determined Judicially before I Plead, because it is good until the King determine otherwise. -The King had not declared yt power Illegal but his Majesties Letter Saying until further orders, is what expects by Colo Sloughter who had only proclaimed his power to Govern, & not to determine concerning the power exercised by us -That the Power by which he acted was good untill Colo Sloughters commission was read, because no orders from his Majesty or his Excellency appeared to the Contrary-That Hendrick Janson, Cornelis Plyvier, Robert LeCock were committed for the Same crimes, who were admitted Bail fore a Riot I cannot Understand how I should Escape if I Plead, & because the King would accuse me for giving away my right, & I cannot complain of an Act of my own, for By pleading I impower the Jury & make them Judges of fact. & how can 12 men of one County Judge the Government of the whole Province?At a Council held at ffort William Henry 13 April 1691. Present the Governour Jos Dudley Chidley Brooke' ffred Phillips Gab. Monviele ~ Steph V. Cortlandt Wm Nichols Esqrs Nich Bayard Thos Willet Willm Smith J The Judges of the present Court of Oyer & Terminer Pray of his Excellency and Council whether his Matyes Letter of the 13th July 1689 Signed by My Lord Nottingham and directed to ffrancis Nicholson Esqr Lievt Governour & Commandr in Cheife of the Province of. New Yorke in America and in his absence to such as for the time being take Care for Preserving of the peace &c. or any Other Letters or papers in that packet from Whitehall referred to the Governour for a Report Can be understood or interpreted to be and Contain any Power or direccon to Capt. Jacob Leisler to take the Government of the Province upon 366 ADMINISTRATION OF himselfe or that the administracon thereupon be to be holden good in Law His Excellency and Council were pleased to Declare their opinion that the abovesaid Letters to Captn Nicholson nor any other papers in the packett directed to His Excellency for a report Contains any power or direction for the Government to the said Capt Leisler. House of Representatives for ye Pronince of N. York Die Veneris Aprill 17th 1691: P. M. Upon farther consideracon of ye petition Presented to this house by many of the freeholders: and the Inhabitants within this Citty & Prouince. Resolued. Nemine Contra dicente, That Jacob Leisler Samull Edsall & diuerse others aiding asisting and abetting him, In the Disoluing ye Conuention that was conuened at ye Citty of New York: for ye preservation of ye Peace ye execution of Justice and ye securing of this Prouince for their Majts seruice King Willm & Queen Mary, King & Queen of England &c was tumultuous Illegall: and against Their Majts Right ouer this their Prouince beeing A dominion of there Croun of England. Resolued. That ye Imprisoning of their Majts Protestant subjects Into dolefull and nauseous Prisons, and there keeping Them by force & violence Wth out any Comittment or ye assignment of any Legall Cause was arbitrary Illegall and against ye peace & dignity of there Majts Croun of England & allso a violation of ye Rights & Priueledges of there Majts subjects inhabitingwithin This Prouince. Resolued. That ye proscribing & yC forceing There Majts Protestant subjects to fly their habitations & forsake the Care of there families, by WCh the strength of ye Prouince was much weakned: was also arbitrary and Illegal & distracting to there Majts Interest in this Province. Resolued. That ye Depredations made by the ffrench & Indians upon Schenectada & other plantations In ye County of Albany, by wch many of there Majts Protestant subjects were slaine There LIEUT. Gov. EISLeR. 367 houses burned; and seuerll carried into Captiuity: wch Seuere Loss Is only to be attributed to ye Disorders & Disturbances That was Raised by Those who had Usurped a power Contrary to there Majts authority & Right of Government ouer This Prouince. Resolued. That ye seizeing & ye forceable taking away of the goods & Merchandise from merchants & persons inhabiting within this Citty & Province was a violation of there Mayts Peace: & ye Distruction of there Laws: & To ye Manyfest Ruin of many of there good Protestant subjects: within this Citty & Prouince. Resolued. That ye Levying & Raising of Money upon there Majts Subjects wth out Lawful authority; Is arbitrary & Illegall; & against ye Rights & Priuileges of There Majts subjects inhabiting within This Prouince. Resolued. That the Raising of forces; & keeping There Majts Fort of New York agst there Majts officers & Soldiers; Lately arriued, was Rebellious & in prejudice to There Majts Right & Dominion of This Prouince. Resolued. That the Denying the Surrender of There Majts Fort to his Excellency after his arriuall and Publication of There Majs Commission To him was Rebellious and against the Dignity and authority of There MajtS Crown of England. Ordred. For the Prevention of the Like Mistakes and Disorders amongst There Majts Subjects, In This Prouince for the time to come -That These Resolues be sent to ye Governeur and Councill, with the Desire of this house That they would be -Pleased To give there Concurrance, of there Board thereunto. Ordred. That an Adress bee made To his Excelly of ye Resolution of this house To support & Defend there Majts Right & Dominion ouer this there Prouince: as it is now established by there Majts authority: In ye Administration of his ExcellY with our Liues and fortunes against all there Majts Enemies. By ordr of the house of Representatiues JA: GRAHAM Speaker: 368 ADMINISTRATION OF To his Excell: Henry Slaughter Lt Governor generall vice Admirall and Comandr in Chiefe vnder their MajtYs King William and Queen [Mary] of New York and dependences. The humble petition of Peter Demilt SHEWETH, THAT he yor petitioner was Comander att the Block house assistant to Braiser who with A good Intent keept the same for the Intrest of their MajtYs King Wlm & Queen Mary and for the saftie of Vs their good subjects, att which time Mr Braiser received a letter from Lyslaer the contents of which we could not understand but soe far as we could perceive it was something of prejudice agt his Majties forces: which soe soon as we perceived we Concluded that Mr Braiser should goe to the ffort to Inform Lyslaer that we would deliver the Blockhouse to the Major and to tell him that we would have noe further to doe with him vpon which Braiser went who coming to Lyslaer and discovering our designe was threatened and confined by Imprisonmen otherwise if sufferred to Come out he had gott the Majors protexon as well as wee: Therefore may itt please yor Excell, to Comiserate the Condition of the said Braiser who I am satisfied what he hath done for their Majties Intrest without any treacherous designe agt King or goverment and be pleased to pardon what he Ignorantly hath Comitted and as in duty bound yor humble petitioner shall dayly pray: PETER DEMILT To his Excell Henry Slaughter Lt Governor Generall Vice Admirall and Commander in cheif undr their Majtys King William & Queen Mary of New York Dependences in America and to his honerable Councill. The humble petition of Gerrardus Beakman SHEWETH THAT yor petitioner and prisoner, being by the people of Kings Countie on Long Island Cosen to bee their representitiues in A Comitie of safetie, which he with Abundance of Intreatie and persuasion, absolutely supposeing that itt was for their Matys Interest and safetie of the Land acted to the best of his know LIEUT. GOV' LETISLER 369 ledge, without any self end or treacherous reservation; And the reason of his raiseing forces to bring into the fort was to noe other intent, but as he was bound by oath and allegance to keepe the same for their Mjatys King William and Queen Mary till their full and absolute power Came to demand the same; not as itt hath through the Malice of A Colerick man happened to vse hostilitie agt their Majtys good subjects, for his sole intent in Coming last into the fort was to persuade Lyslar from such base and inhuman actions being soe much Contrary to what he the said Lyslar alwayes pretended to him yor petitioner soe that he hopes you will be please rightly to apprehend his true intent in the matter and pardon what for want of knowledge he hath Cominitted, who promised fidelitie and allegence to their Majtys and all their Lawfull substitutes; further yor petitioner haveing severall patients on Long Island very dangerous-prayes for libertie to visitt them vpon good. and sufficient baile, and as in Duty bound will dayly pray. To his Excell Henry Slaughter Captn General Vice Admrall and Commander in Cheif under their Majtyes King William and Queen Mary of New York and dependences in America The humble petition of Magdaline Beakman, SHEWETH, THAT yor petitioners husband; and yor Excell prisonerin fort William, was att the Alteracon of Government A Justice of peace & Captn of Mellitia Companie on Long Island; att which alteracon the people was verry vrgent and desireous that he yor petitioners husband should appeare as their representitive in A Commitie of safetie to Act for King William and Queen Maryes Interest and their own safetie against their enimies In which station he with A true meaning and good intent, acted being dayly perswaded by the minister of that place that he Cold not deny itt with honest and A good Consience; but now he do planely sees that for want of A right and true vnderstandinge he hath been mislead which with A true Contrition he heartly laments and acknowledges; freely submittinge himself to yor Excell: voLo II. P4 370 ADMINISTRATION OF pleasure, not doubtinge but yor cleamencie will Comiserate & pardon what he through Ignorance hath Committed; who shall for the future beware how he acts without A more stable power; And the absolute Intent of his goeing into the fortt these late times was to doe his endeavour to apease the wrath and raged designe of Lyslar being privie to all his designes & Contrivances; which he hath in A great measure mittigated as he Cann if consulted more largly demonstrate; further yor petitioner hartily prayes for A little better accomodation for her husband till yor Excell pleasure is further Known therein and as in duty bound she shall ever pray MAGDALENA BEEKMANS KNow all men by these Presents that I William Beekman of the Citty of Newyorke Gent. am held and firmly bound unto Henry Sloughter Esqr Captain Generall and Governor in Chiefe of the Province of Newyorke and Territorys Depending thereon in America in the sum of one hundred pounds Currt money of this Province to be payd unto the sd Henry Sloughter his successors or Assignes for the use of their Matyes King William & Q. Mary of Engld &ct. for the which payment well & truly to be made I do binde me my heirs Executors and administrators & every of them firmly by these Presents Sealed with my seale Dated att ffort William Henry the seven & twentyeth day of Aprill Anno Dni 1691 Annoqe Regni Rs & Rte Willmi & Marie Angl &c: tertio. The Condition of this Obligation is such that Whereas Gerard Beeckman the son of the abovebound William Beeckman is lately convicted & adjudged of Treason whereby the Lands Tenements Goods & Chattels of the std Gerard are forfeited to their Matyes And whereas there are four hundred skepples of Corne in the house of the sd Gerard Beeckman which are said to belong to Andreas Marshalleck of the City of Newyorke Baker for the space of two months last past And whereas the sd Andreas Marshalleck hath made applicacon unto the said Henry Sloughter for liberty to have use and enjoy the sd four hundred skeppels of LIEUT. GOY. LEISLER. 371 come as of his own Right and property which in consideracon of this bond was granted Now if it shall not afterwards appear that the said four hundred bushels of Corne doe belong to the sd Gerard Beeckman or att the time of the treason committed or any time since hath belonged to the sd Gerard Beeckman and that they are forfeitable and forfeited to there sd matyes then this obligation to be void else to remain in full force & virtue Sealed & Delivered WILL BEECKMAN (Seal) in presence of David Jamison A Fromanteel Endorsed, Will. Beeckmans bond to the Government for 100 1s;5 To his Excellency Henry Sloughter Captane General & Governor in Chief of their Majesties Province of New York & dependencies. The petition of Gabriel Minvielle. Humbly sheweth that in the times of the late revolutions a party of Armed men came to this petitioners house, Who in a forceble manner tooke away & convoyed into the fort 7 whole & six half barrels of Powder, part whereof belonging to the petitioner that is to say 3 barrels marked PL No 2, 3 & 4, & four barrels marked ML are now at this present time still remaining in the stores of the said fort. The petitioner humbly prayes that your Excellency Will be pleased to order that the said 7 barrels of powder may be returned to the Petitioner or that the vallue thereof may be paid to him, since the property was never altered from this Petitioner, but violently & forcebly taken away as aforesaid. And your Petitioner shall ever pray &c. G. MIINVIELLE 372 ADMINISTRATION OF At a Councill held at ffort William Henry the 28th day of Aprill 1691. Present His Excellency the Governour fired Phillips Gab. Monviele Mch ayard E sqrs'Will Pinhorne 5 Esqrs Steph. v Cortlandt sq Tho: Willett Chid Brooke Vpon Reading a Letter from the Sheriffe of Richmond County Giving an Account of severall Riotts and Tumults on Staten Island and that they are subscribing of Papers Ordered That a letter from the Secr'y be sent to the said Sheriffe requiring him to secure such persons as are Ringleaders and Promoters of such Riotts and disturbances in ordr to prsecucon pursuant to his duty and office 1 GOV. SLOUGHTER TO LORD INCHIQUIN. Fort Willm Henry May 2d 1691. MAY IT PLEASE YOUR EXCELLENCY.-By the Last Vessel from hence I acquainted your Excellency of my Arrivall Here, & ye danger that I found the Country in by ye late Management of one Capt Leisler who took upon himself without any Direction from yr Majestyes to rule, & as it now appears, to oppress this province to a Very great Degree, & upon my arrivall refused me Entrance in ye fort & Garrison of this Province, but by seizing of his principalI Instruments & by ye Deserting of his own Soldiers which were About 300 he was at length forced to render himself prisoner & upon him & his, accomplices a Grand Court of Oyer & Terminer haue passed & given Juclgmt of Death to which nevertheless I am not willing to proceed but upon extreamest Necessity untill his Majesty shall have advice & his pleasure known therein, Yr is a great fermt in this prouince heightened by ye Neighbour Colonys of N: Engld & therefore I am desirous to proceed with all patience & Moderation that his Majesty may be sensible of ye Necessity of 1 The papers here referred to were Petitions in favor of the State Prisoners; which the people were signing. For this offence several were arrested, fined and otherwise harassed, See post, Petition of Van Pelty Veghten and others to Gov. Fletcher, p, 41i5 LIE'JT'. TGOV. LEISLER. 373 a good & perfect settlemt of ye other Colonyes on the Coast which I am Labouring to represent & if your excellency can by your Information from myself or others put it forward it will be a true seruice to ye Crown of EnglN Your excellency hath every day reports from ye severall parts here coming to you that may Inform of ye troubles, disapoynt, ruines & danger yt ye severall Governmts by ye french & Indian & by themselves labour onder that I need not prticularly enforme you. I ask to be accounted your Excellency's Correspondent in euery thing that may Import yr Majesty's service & am perticularly Sr Your. To My Ld Inchiquin GOV. SLOUGHTER TO JOSEPH CHURCH. SmI-I have heard several Complaints of oppression. and injury done to severall Inhabitants of Dartmouth and Little Compton driving them from their familys forcing of them to Warr and levying of taxes upon them without Authority and other Abuses by you and others, their Maty's Subjects ought not to suffer at this Rate and asure Yor selfe if I hear any more Complaints of that nature I will take such methods to ease the subjects as will effect you otherwise than you are aware of at present I am Sr S -Yor Fort William Henry May ye Eighth 1691 To his Excellncy Henry Slather Governr and Commander in Cheife in and Over their Maties Province of New Yorke &ca in America, and to his honnorble Councell The Humnble Petion of Joseph Sackett That yor Petnor was forced to take upon him an Ofice to Collect and Gather under ye Command of Jacob Leisler the taxes and Impositions Layed upon the Inhabitants of Newtowne on Long Island in Queens County and vpon Refuseall I was to be sued to the [stm] of seventy flue poundse Now Yor Petionr haueing a part of the Said Taxes and thauei-ng Likew e lse deliuered [partj of the Said Taxes To the 374 ADMINISTRATION OF Collectors Order and their Remaining A part thereof: Still in my hands, and the acts of the said Liesler being made appeare to be Ilegall the people: pressing upon your petioner for to Retourne their moneys to them againe Now yor Petioner haveing pd part before the arriveall of yor Excellv or yor Ordr shall be suferer thereby and therefore yor Petionr humbly praieth for yor order and. answr concerning the perticulars and that yor petionr may not be a suferer thereby haveing as cann be made appear always beene against Leisler and all his proceeding and your petioner shall ever Pray as in Duty always bound. Endorsed The Peticoner referred to [Date, according to Comic. Coll. Smith Mr Cortlandt & Mr Min., 4th May. 1691.] Brooke to be Exa ied concerning his case. Att A Councill held att ffort Willmn Henry May the 14th 1691 Present His Excell the Governr fired Phillips Wm Nicolls Nich. Bayard Gab. Monvielle Steph v. Cortlandt Esqrs Vpon the Clamour of the people daily coming to his Excell hearing relating to ye Execucon of the prisoners Condemned of treasone having had the opinion of the Major part of the Representatives now mett and assembled for the Execucon of the principall Offenders he was pleased to offer to ye Councill his willingnesse to doe what might be most proper for the quiet and peace of the Sd Countrey intending speedily to remove for Albany And Demanded of the Councill their opinion whether the delay of the Execucon of Justice might not prove dangerous at this Conjuncture Whereupon it was unanimously resolved that as well for the satisfaccon of the Indians as the asserting of the Government & authority residing in his Excell & preventing insurreccons & disorders for the future it is absolutely necessary that the sentence pronounced against the principall Offenders be forthwith put in Execucon p Order DAVID JAMISON Coun)' Ck LIEUT GOV. LEISLER. 375 Council Room, May 16t 1691. His Excellency having sent the Minute of Council of the fourteenth May instant referring to the Execucon of the principall Criminalls Condemned of Treason, to the house of Representatives to acquaint them of the Resolve of this Board, The same was returned underwritten in manner following vizt House of Representatiues for ye Prouince of New York viz Die Veneris May 15. P M. 1691 This house according totheir opinion giuen: doe aproue of what his ExcellY & Councill have Don By ord of ye house of Representatiues JA: GRAIHAM Speaker LEISLER'S AND MILBORNE'S PETITION FOR A REPRIEVE. To his Excellency Colonel Henry Sloughter Capn Genlln Governr in Chiefe & Vice Admirall of the Province of New Yorke & the Honble Councill now Assembled. The humble Peticon of Jacob Leisler & Jacob Milborne & their distressed Relacons: SHEWETH. That whereas yor Petitionrs having reed Sentence of death by the honbie Court of Oyer & Terminer held within this City, & have nothice from Yor Excellency that Saturday next will be ye Execucon of Sd Sentence: Its Implored from Yor Excy & Honors that ye said Execucon may be deferred untill his Maties pleasure may be knowne, or such reprieue may be vouchsafed them as to yor Excellency & Honors shall in your charity, & wisdome please to direct wholy resigning themselues unto your goodnesse & pleasure for disposing of them, begging the God of Mercy to influence you wth Clemency towards them And as in all duty bound Yor Petrs shall for euer Pray, JACOB LEISLER JAcoB MILxBOB.N 376 ADMINISTRATION OF *DYING SPEECHES OF LEISLER & MILBORNE. COLLECCONS made on the Dying Speeches of Captain Jacob Leisler & Jacob Milborne, iis son in Law, who both Suffered in New York City on the 16th of May being Saturday in the Year of our Lord 1691. -The great wise & omnipotent creator of all things visible & invisible who from the time of our first coming a Shore in the Vale of tears, misery & affliction, hath to this present moment protected us be magnified. Praysed & Glorified for ever, Amen, GENTLEMEN AND FELLOW BRETHREN all I hope in the grace & fear of the Lord Jesus, we are not at present unsensible of our dying State & Condition, as to this world a State which all the Sons & Daughters of Adam in this globe must now one after another run through ere they can be satisfied with that eternity of which so often by Divines is treated of-In consideration of which for death we may be better prepared, like penitent Mortals here on earth, we Submit our lives. & all that unto us appertaineth into the hands of divine protection prostrating ourselves before the foot Stoole that immaculate Lamb of God who taketh away the Sinns of the world hoping that through his meritorous death & passing our iniquities shall be done away & our pardons Sealed on earth before we go hence & are seen no more, humbly imploring that not through our own meritts of Justification but rather through the merit of him that is willing to save our souls. might become precious in the Eyes of God & live forever in the Kingdome of Eternall Glory when time shall be no more-as to our State in this world among the rest of our hard fortunes in this seat of tears it is true we have lately on the important request of a Committee choose by the Major Part of the Inhabitants of this province & taken (to the present griefe & vexation of our poore afflicted relations left behind) great & weighty matters of State affairs requiring at Such an helme more wise & Cunning powerfull Pilotts. then either of us ever was. but considering that in the time of this distracted Countrey's greatness, necessity amongst us-no such Persons could be found but that those that were any wayes, in Capasity of Uniting us against a Common enemy would not undertake, we conceive for the Glory LIEJTo GOY. LEISLra.L 377 of the protestant interest the Establishment of the present Government under our Sovereign Lord & Lady King Wm & Queen Mary &c -& the Strengthening against all foreign attempts, of this confused City & Province, thought it a very serviceable Act that our poore endeavours should not be wanting in any thing that was needful for the Support of ourselves & posterity hereafter whereby we must confess & often times against our will several enormities have been committed from the day of our first undertakings until the arrival of his excellency the Honorable Coll Henry Sloughter. who now for his Majesties Sake, we love & Honour & often times, during our unhappy abode in power longed to see that a periode thereby might be put to such distracted orders, as then were raging all of which some we must Confess on our side hath been committed through Ignorance some through a Jealous fear that disaffected persons would not be true to the present interest of the Crowne of England some peradventure through misinformation & misconstruction of People's intent & meaning, some through rashness by want of Consideration, & then through passion haste & anger, which According to orders for to declare would take up more time than present can be afforded, however for every such offence. seeing there is no recalling of the same, or possibillity of given further Satisfaction, first of the great god of heaven & then afterwards of the several offended persons, we humbly begg pardon & forgiveness, desiring them every one with a Christian Charity in our graves with us to bury all malice. hatred & Envy that therein might be incurred & further before God & the World here we do declare & protest as Dying Sinners that we do not only forgive the greatest & most inveterate of our enemies, but According to that most Excellent patron of our dying Saviour. we say to the God of Justice. father forgive them for they Know not what they do & so farre from revenge we do depart this world, that we require & make it our dying supplication to every of our relations & friends & acquaintences, that they should in time to come for ever be forgetfull of any injury done to us or either of us, so that on both Side, that discord & dessention (which by the devil in the beginning was created) might with our dying sides be buried in oblivion, never more to raise up to the inflamation of future 3 78 ADMINISTRATION OF posterity, the Lord grant that the offering up of our blood might be a full satisfaction for all disorders to this present day committed, & that forever after the Spiritt of unity might remaine among our felow brethren continuing upon earth, knowing that in a Strange land it is the divine providence of heaven not our desarts that have so well protected our unhappy province this day all that for our dying comfort we can say, as concerning the point for which we were condemn'd, is to declare as our last words. before that God whom we hope before long to see that our maine end, totall Intent & endeavors to the fullness of that understanding with which we were endowed-whe had no other than to maintaine against popery or any Schism or heresy whatever the interest of our Sovereign Lord & Lady that now is & the reformed protestant Churches in those parts, who ever things otherwise Since have hapined or being misconstructed & Scandalous reports (we at present must confess by divers are thrown upon us) as tho we intended to Support the dying, intrest of the late King James & the Contradiction of which we need not trouble many arguments, being persuaded that every good protestant of this Country who have been for any time acquainted with our transactions can from his conscience averre the falsehoods & maliciousness of such aspersions, as concerning Major Ingoldesby's comming to demand the Garrison after his arrival, he but in the least produced any Satisfaction of his power to receive the same & discharge us, we would as readily have delivered the fort, as he could demand the same, all which seeing past & gone is Scarce worthy nothingThe Lord of his infinite Mercy preserve the King & Queen from. all their traytors & deceitfull Enemies, God be merciful unto & bless with peace & unity these their Kingdoms unto which we belong, God preserve this province from greedy outragious Enemies abroad & Spite full inveterate wretches at home God bless the Govenor of this place, God Bless the council Assembly & Government now Established that they all may be united to propagate their Majesties interest, the Country's good & the Establishment of Piety, the Lord of Heaven of his infinite mercy bless all that wish well to Zion & Convert those that are out of the way, let his mercies likewise administer true Comfort to all that are desolute, grieved & oppressed LIEUT. GOYo LEISLER. 379 in misery & necessity or any other affliction, Especially the deplored Souls of that poor family unto which we did formerly belong, our only comfort, in this case, is that God has promised to take care for the Widows & fatherless, recommending them all -this dying moment into the hands of one that is able & willing. to save these that seek him desiring them to put their perpetuall confidence in the mercies of one that never faileth, & not to weep for us that are departing to our God but rather to weep for themselves that are here behind us to remain in a State of Misery & Vexation GENTLEMEN You will, I hope all Christian like be Charitable to our poor distressed family that are to remain among you (as long as God please) that you will Join with us in prayer for the preservation of our immortal Soules in a kingdom of never Dying Glory, unto which God of his infinite mercy bring us all Amen Amen Some few Particulars of Captain Jacob Leisler. The Sheriff asking him if he was ready to die, he replied Yes, & lifting up his Eyes he prayed & then said that he had made his peace with God & that death did not scare him, & desired that his Corpse might be delivered to his wife, and declared that he Educated his family as a good Christian & hoping they should continue, accordinly & he said that you have brought my body to shame, I hope you will not dispise my family therefore, I have not much more to say on this world, for we read in the Lords prayer, forgive us our trespasses as we forgive them that tresspass Against us, but hereafter we shall appear before God's Tribunal & there shall we be judged, our Lord JEsus CHRIST suffered so much in this world, why Should I not suffer a littleThen to his Son Milborne he said. I must now die, why must you die? You have been but a Servant to us & further he declared. I am a dying man & do declare before god & the world that what I have done was for king William & Queen Mary, for the defence of the protestant religion & the Good of the Country & therefore I must die upon which I will receive Gods Judgment, and then he, said, when this my skin shall be eaten through, with this my flesh shall I see God, my Eyes shall see him & no stranger, when the Handkerchief was put about his head, he said, I hope these my 380 ADMINISTIRATION OF Eyes shall see our Lord Jesus Christ in Heaven I am ready. I am ready. 0'v JACOB MILBORNEHe prayed for the King & Queen the Govenor & Council he pardoned the Judge that had condemned him Saying that the Lord would forgive him, he was ready to lay down this terrestral coat, being assured that his heavenly father would cloath him with a new one in the Kingdom of Heaven, then to M' Levingston he said you have caused the King [that] I must now die. but before gods tribunal. I will implead you for the same. then to his father he said we are thoroughly wet with rain, but in a little while we shall be rained through with the Holy Spirit The sheriff asked him whether he would not Bless the King and Queen, he answered it is for the King & Queen I die & the protestant Religion to which I was Borne & Bred, I am ready I arm ready. father into thy hands I recommend my soulMss. NOTE.-The Original paper of which the above is an copy was lent me by Mrs. Farmer, Daughter of Abram Gouverneur and the widow Milborne & Grand Daughter to Captain Jacob Leisler. NEW YORK March-1770. GOV. SLOUGHTER TO COLL. CODRINGTON. Sa —After my hearty Respects to yor Excelly I have Imbraced this Opportunity to acquaint you that on my arrival here I found this Province in very great Confusion & disorder Leisler & his Accomplices had made great provissions of all sorts after Majr Ingoldesby's arrival as if they were intended to hold out a long seige but the people faild him upon my arrival so that he was forct to surrender himselfe yrefore notwithstanding he had denyed in the ffort three times after publication of their Matyes letters Patents Leisler and the principle of his Accomplices had their tryall at A speciall Court of Oyer and Termyner and were Condemned I was much inclined to reprieve them untill his Matys pleasure were knowne but the diseases and troubles of this Government did urge me to Execute Leisler & Milbourn I have beggd their M atyes pardon for the rest whibch I hope they will LIEUT. GOV. LEISLEIL 381 grant and the Country is now quiet and in good order I am. going for Albany to Confirme the Indians in their Allegiance and subjection to the Crown of Engld having been very much debauched by the ffrench during the late disorders here I would spare yor Islands what provisions Wee can send having great Occasion for my seamen here therefore desire of you not to impresse them if they are not suffered to returne it will doe me a great hurt & put a stop to further supplyes of provisions from this place I have Commanded Capt Kidd for their Matys Especial service here but hope in few months he may be with you if his wife will let him I will Imbrace all opportuinityes to maintain Correspondence with yor ExcellY and pray the like of you & to be cherished Sr Yor very humble servant Endorsed Copy Letter to Coll Codrington DRAFT OF A LETTER TO MR BLAITHWAYT. SR —The Inclosed narrative will Inform you of the resistance made by Jacob Leisler and his associates to Major Ingoldsby and the Kings forces on the Govrsl arrivall here on ye 19th March last, Hee found the Countrey all In armes. Leisler with near 900 men in the fort fireing upon the town where he killed and woumded sev11 of the people after Hee had published his Commission, he sent Major Ingoldsby to demand surrender of the fort wch was flattly denyed, however Leislr sent on Stoll who knew the Govr2 in England to see if hee was really Come, upon his return to Leisler ye GoVr sent a second summons wch was Likewyse refused, and then Leisler sent two of his principall Councellors, Milbourne & Delanoy to Capitulate 3 wdh wd not bee admitted & they were ordered immediately to be secured. the nixt day he sent to demand the prisoners I In the original draft of this Letter, Sloughter speaks in the first person sins gular, as here-"On my arrivall," and farther on C I found the Country" &e. The phraseology was afterwards altered; the governor is spoken of in the third person, and the letter is made a communication apparently from the council. The alterations are put in Italics. 2. GC Me," in the orign. draft. 3. Wi Wth mneef follows in the first draft, e See post, p. 391. 382 ADMINISTRATION OF but the Govr would not receive their Message resolveing to attacque the fort by Sea & Land, haveing ordered the man of warr to goe & Ly at ye back of ye fort, and Major Ingoldsby to march wth the Kings forces to ye Fort gate and make a peremptory demand of a Surrender oyrwise would assault them-they then did admitt Major Ingoldsby to enter alone, who by the Govr order required them Imediately to ground their armes and march out of the fort, and they all Should be Pardoned except Leisler & his Councill who they readily forsook the Major thereupon Commanded the Ks forces to Enter and brought Leslier & his Councell. to the Govr' at the Citty hall they being taken in actuall rebellion the Govr wth advice of the Councill Committed them to prison & ordered a Commission of Oyer & Terminer to be Issued out for their Legall tryall where two were acquitted by their country viz: Delanoy & Edsall, six Convict by their Countrey, and two Leslier & Millbourn Condemned as mute* by the advice of the Judges the Govu was Inclined to repreive them untill his Majtys Pleasure should be Known, but the People were so much disturbed thereat, and the Councill & Assembly did represent to him the great damage it would be to the Ks service, and a discouragemt to future Loyalty if the law was not Executed upon the principall actors wch for the public peace he was induced 2 to doe, and on ye 17th of May3 Lesleir & Millbourn were accordingly executed-haveing respited all the sentence saveing the hanging & Seperateing their heads from their bodys. 1: To me and the Council," orig. draft. * This asterisk is in the MS. but without any corresponding reference. 2 ccI was Constrained "-orig. draft, 3 The 17th May 1691 was Sunday. This date should therefore have been 16th. See Leisler's petition for a Repreive, antea page 375. See also his dying speech. GOV SLOUGHTER TO LORD INCHIQUIN. N Yorke July 6th, 1691. MY LORD-I have by oyr opertunitys Kissed yor Ldships hands. This is by my good freind Captn Phillips to acquaint yor Ld shps that I have at Last reduced this Governmt to its True Allegiance & have Executed Leisler & Millbourn two of Cheife rebells, the Assembly have Concurred with me in the Settling a revenue on their Majtys Service. I just returned from Albany the nearest LIEUT, GOV. LEISLER. 383 part of this province to the French in Cannada wch plase 1 found in great disorder but have also put it in a good postur secured our Indians who are our best bullwark against the french dissigns, I have also detached one hundred Christians who Joine wth 300 Maquas and river Indians under the Command of Major Schyler, who I have sent into Cannada & doubt not but to have a good acet of them they being to be assisted by a Considerable force of ye Sennequa Indians who will likewyse descend upon the Ennemy, and assault ym at severall plases at once, we have a report that the french have reced recruits att Cannada & Intend some action against Albany. I am now requiring some aid of our Nighbor Collonys to put that place in such Condition as may disapoint their dissigns. we have sev11 french privateers upon our Coast wch have done some damage to N. England men. I have ordered Capt Hix to Cruise from ye Capes of Virginia to ye Capes of N. England to secure our Coast, I shall be glade to hear of yor Ldships Wellfare whose prosperity & success is heartily wished by Yor Ldshps Inchequin Most GOV. SLOUGHTER TO THE GOV. OF CONNECTICUT 11 July 1691. SR —I returned to this place from Albany on the 27th past where I left all things in a very good posture and with much difficulty have secured our Indians I found that place in great disorder the out Plantacons and Schenectady almost ruined and destroyed by the Enemyes during the time of the late Confusions here, I have garrisoned Schenectady and the half moon with some of the hundred fusileers raised by our Assembly for the defence of this frontier att Albany the Remainder with one of the Kings Companyes are passed att Albany. By the Indians Proposition herewith sent you you will perceive their sentiments and what apprehensions they have concerning yor Government and the rest of the Adjacent Colonyes and how far they think you obleiged (being in the same Chain of Covenant with them) to aid and assist us against the ffrench our Comon Enemy pursuant thereunto I have advised withe the Council who 384 ADMINISTRATION OF Joyne with me and think it absolutely needfull for the. security of this and all the other of their Majestyes Colonyes that there be garrisoned att Albany att least 500 men this winter whereof they consider it needfull that you assist us with One hundred & fifty as your proposicon according to Order of Council or Resolve this day now sent you I need not relate unto you of how great Import the prservacon of this place is being the only bulwarke and safeguard of all their Majestyes Plantacons on the Maine of America and if for want of strength the ffrench should Assault and gain Albany how far your Government and all the English Colonyes on both sides of us would be endangered you can easily Judge for wee have nothing but that place that keeps our Indians steady with us and the losse of that might bee the losse of them and the losse of them might be the losse of all the kings Interest on this Continent I have alsoe upon the receipt of the Inclosed letter from Justice Glenn and for the prventing of the Enemyes Descent upon us raised one hundred Christians more who with 300 Maquaes and river Indians under the Command of Major Shuyler did March to Canada the 22th1 past to watch the Enemyes mocon and to Improve all opportunityes that presents for the surprizing and destroying them the Sinnekaes having agreed to goe down Cadaraque River with a Considerable force and assault them at the same time which I doubt not but will have that effect and keep them in such Alarm that they may change their resolves of invading us at least divert them so long untill we be in a fitt posture of Defence I have applyed to our Neighbours in Jew England for their 2dssistance but can have none soe cannot rely upon them thol they were forward enough to help the late usurper by which it may be easily conceived how far they are affected to their Matyes Interest and how much this place is endangered if we have not a present and suitable supply from you ~ others of our JVeighbours Westward The Council doth likewise joyne with me and think fitt that you conmunicate some reasons to Concert with me and oyr Commisoners from Virginia Maryland Pennsil & the Jerseyes of proper means and methods for the securing this and their Matyes other Plantacons on the Maine and the suppressing the Enemy and alsoe to LIEUT.. GOTV LEISLERo 385 agree to a Certaine fund to be levyed amongst us all in proportion for the raising and paying of men during this warr that if possible the memory of the ffrench might be rooted out of America all which by a hearty union amongst our selves and noe [due?] deliberation may be easily Effected I doubt not but you are very sensible of the many branches that have been lopped off from this Government in the late Reignes and that is now confined to a great narrownesse having only Hudsons River & Long Island for the bounds and notwithstanding of the great harrasse waste and ruin that has attended them in the late usurpacon yet in their Assembly they have given signall demonstracon of great loyalty and true affection to their Matyes having Establised a Revenue as formerly and raised 2000o~ for the pay of 100 fusileers and the paying and fitting out the late Expedition will cost 2000C more so that the Charge of this poor Province will Exceed 10000~ p annum which far Exceeds their ability and will alsoe fall short of what is needfull to preserve it and how far you are concerned in its prservacon need not be repeated for that I hope I shall have yr Effectuall answer which will be great service to the Crowne and the only security to us all Since the promisses I have reced fresh Intelligence concerning the arrivall of recruits in Canada as is fully related in the duplicates of the Letters & examinations sent you so that ther is now no time for delay but doe expect that you will forthwith send us yor quota of 150 men Compleatly armed & provided for the reinforcement of Albany, wch is now in eminent danger the french spyes having killed two men that were mowing of hay at Quenestiago within 7 miles of Albany-I now send this Messenger express to urge yor despatch of this matter our circumstance not admitting delays and if any failure on yor parts. must ly at yor doors. and the king fully acquainted with it, I shall as oportunity presents accquainte you from time to time with what occurres, and do expect you will put yor whole Governmt in such a posture that may be ready to march against the French our Comon Ennemy if any Invasion should happen Endorsed to Virginia Maryland Pennsila W. Jersey & Connecticut 11th July 1691 VOL. II. 25 386 ADMINISTRATION OF MAJOR INGOLDSBY & COUNCIL TO THE LORDS OF TRADE. NYorke July 29th 1691 MAY IT PLEAS YOR LDSHPS-On ye 25th Instant Coll Sloughter our Late Go-vr was seized with sudden death, whereupon pursuant to their Majtys Letters pattents we did unanimously declare Major Richd Ingoldsby to be Commander in Chiefe untill their Majtys Pleasure should be further knomwn and on ye 27th Curt he was sworn to Execute the powers & Authorityes Contained in their Majtys Letters pattents his Excelly the Late Govr on his arrivall here found this Countrey in great disorder Lesleir Millbourn & oyrs who had usurped the Governrmt having grievously opressed the best sort of the Inhabitants, were so hardened in their wickedness that they would not admitt Major Ingoldesby who arrived wth their Matys forces & stores into the Fort, but on the contrary Issued out proclamations of warr against him fires upon the Citty Killed sevall of the [Kings] subjects the pticulars whereof we more fully related in the narrative sent to Mr Blaithwaite On ye 19th of March his Excelly Arrived published their Majtys Letters pattents and Commanded a surrender of the fort wch was sev11 times denyed at last they proposed a Capitulation wch his ExcellcY refused and seized upon Millbourn & delanoy who were the Messengers the next day the fort was surrendered Lesleir and his Councellors Committed to prison being taken in Actuall rebellion, a Commission of oyer & terminer was Issued for their Legall tryall, where the two principall Acters Lesleir & Millbourn were Condemned as mute; six convict by their Country and two cleared. On ye 17th May the Mutes were Executed the rest repreived untill their Majtys pleasure were known on ye 9th of Aprill his Excelley mett the assembly who Chose their Speaker and did agree wth his Excelley in many things for their MajtYs service the Laws made are now transmitted to Mr Blaithwaite for their Majtys aprobatione The assembly did then adress their Majtys wh the State of this province wch we have now farther presumed to doe, in a more pticular manner, & humbly beg yr Ldships favour therein, there being nothing requested but According to the best of our Experience & understandings, is of absolute LIEUT. GOV. LEISLER, 387 necessity for their Majtys dignity and advantage and the security of their subjects here, all wCh is humbly submitted unto yr Ldshps, his Excelley had no sooner settle affairs here but he went to Albany with sevll Gentlmen of the Councill, where he met the Indians and notwithstanding of the strong endeavors of the french hath so fixed them, that we have cause to believe they will prove constant to us, the french are very active, his Excellcy viewed Schenectidy ye half moon & Sev11 o0r out places where he found them in a sad and miserable condition occasioned by the Late troubles and the french who had desended vpon them burnt Schenectidy & had killed & taken sevll Inhabitants he has guarisoned Schenectity & the half moon, and upon the reports he heard of recruits arrived in Cannada, and of 900 Cannoes making at Montroyall with dessign to Come & take Albany he fitted out 130 Christians and 300 Maquas & river Indians under ye Command of Major Schyler who went into Canada on ye 25th past and were to meet there about 500 Senequas who promised to go down Cadaraqua river unto them we hope they may doe some service or at Lest devert their Invasion untill we bee in a beter posture of defence having wrote sev11 Letters to the neighbouring Colonys for their assistance Connecticut Rhod Island & ye Massachusets flattly deny us and will not afford us relief we Expect better from Virginia & Maryland —there being an absolute necessity of guarisoning Albany wth at lest 500 men for this province as now Limitted impossible to raise or mantain ym yet that Post of so great Import, that if it be not preserved, will endanger the loss of all their Majtys Collonys on this Continent being the only defence & security of them all, we therfore pray your Lordshps to Consider the present state of this province who has groaned under unsiportable pressures ever since that unhappy union with bosten in the late reign the' governmt then being so large an extent and the means of Conveying Intelligence so difcult & tedious that on end of the dominion might have been destroyed before the other could have notice of it, besides they have so since so poysoned thos western parts with their seditious and antimonarchical principles who formerly were all signall for their good affection to the monarchy that all the Miseries that has since attended this province is only to be attributed 388 ADMINISTRATION OF to that miserable union, In the adress now sent unto their Majt)'3 your Ldshps will perceive, that those Collonys formerly under on head & governmt and wer desired to be reunited has this advantadge besides all the oyrs occrueing to their Majtys that this place ye seat of the Govrmt is in the center of the whole & Schenectada wch is;the Extremest part of the whole will not exceed 160 miles so that in two or 3 days we can be advised & give releife to any part in a -short time ANSWER TO BLAGGE'S MEMORIAL, [ante. p. 55.] The matter alleadged therein seemes verry wide of the truth because Capt Nicholson & others then of the Councill appoynted by Authorty of the Crowne, in the month of March long before any knowledge of the late happy Revolucon had taken care for the pro.viding matterialls for repairing of the ffort & garrison at New Yorke And ye Citty Fortifications were divided into equall shares according to ye number of the militia Companyes in ye Citty who were allotted to finish yr shares but it was very remarkable that every Company in ye Town had Compleated their shares of ye fortifications Except Capt Leislers Company who did not finish till about 3 or 4 weeks after that he had seized ye ffort to himselfe and when they the sd Leisler & his Complices had seized their Matys fortresse & stores under Colour & prtence of their Matys service they were applyed to their own defence nor does it appear by any words or Accons of Capt Nicholson during his abode here that he had any dislike to the sd revolution or the least dissatisfaccon to yr prsent Matys persons Government or interest. ffor the greater quiet & satisfacon of the people the sd Capt Nicholson admitted Detachments of the Citty Militia & desired the assistance of the severall Countyes of the Province as well for their Council] & advice as the comon defence to Watch & ward in the ffort which gave occacon to Capt Leisler & others his abettors all men of meane birth sordid Educacon & desperate ffortunes by inflaming the people with idle and improbable stories & false suggestions whilst Capt Nicholson & others of the Councill assisted LIEUT. GOV. LEISLERo 389 with the Mayor & Aldermen of the City & Militia Officers of the province all Protestants & principall ffreholders were Consulting att the City Hall for the peace & preservacon of the Country to expell the garrison force the keys from Capt Nicholson & assumed this military power over their Majties subjects of this province which poynt being so far gayned the lesser & meaner part of the people being overawed by the strength of the ffort were easily induced to choose such a Comitte as they were directed for the Confirmacon of the accons of the sd Leysler & others his followers. The Gentlemen of the former Councill Mayor & aldermen of the Citty were not made acquainted with any order or proclamacon ffbr proclaiming their Majtics in this province but on the Contrary upon Rumor of such orders being come to the Towne they sent to Leysler & others to enquire of the truth but could have no certaine intelligence from them and what avercon possibly could be discovered in those persons to their Majties prosperity & accession to the throne their letter to the Secretary of State upon the first newes of the Revolucon their Educacon & constancy in the profession of the protestant Religion & Continuall affection to the English Crowne may sufficiently evince & the Journalls of their proceedings in those times apparently declare. The Mayor & Aldermen were not suspended but remayned untill the usuall time of election, nor did any of the persons confined in any manner oppose their Majties interest or the revolucon but were all of them of the protestant Religion well affected to their Majties persons & Governmt & the Empire of the English Crowne in these parts. The Inhabitants of the Province werre farr from understanding }is Majti's letter to be directed for Capt Leisler or that any powers or authorityes therein Contained were given to him the Letters was not openly comunicated but when diverse of their Majtics good and faithfull protestant Leige Subjects principall ffreeholders of the province desired of Capt Leysler who had surreptitiously got the same into his own hands that they might either have a Coppy or heare the same read that they might pay all duty and obedience to their Majtie Orders accordingly they were not only denyed the saune but dismissed with menaces contempt & rude language. Noe Reluctance or Resistance in the least was ever shewne or 390 ADMINISTRATION OF offered to their Majties Governmt in the province but it was received with a hearty & Unanimous Consent & general joy & gladness & the only Opposicon that ever was made was against the manifest irraconal & intollerable violence & oppression of Jacob Leisler & his faction whose Religion before those times was as unaccomptable & obscure as their birth & fortunes by whose occasion the Ruines of Scanechtadae & other depredations of the ffrench & Indians happened & unto whom the same is wholly attributed Severall of their Maj tie Protestant Leige Subjects being without any reason kept strict prisoners in the ffort to the regret & amazement of the greatest part of the Inhabitants of the Province some of the most Considerable persons in a modest & peaceable maner without any armes whatsoever applyed themselves to Capt Leysler & Civilly desired the prisoners might be delivered upon Baile but were disturbed by Leyslers son who came runing upon them with a drawne Sword & diverse other armed men whereupon sundry of their Majties good Subjects were seized imprisoned & without any course or Solemnity of Law fined & kept in durance during the will & pleasure of the sd Leysler & his Companions. Concerning the Quartering & insolence of the Country People in the Citty of New Yorke the truth is verry much abused for they were all called in by Leislers Comand & Quartered by his Orders & the abuses & Robberyes by them Committed were notorious & Exceeding greivous to their Majties good subjects. The Notion of a Dutch Plott cannot be applicable to Leysler & his adherents the much greater part of Albany which wholly Consists of dutch people & all ye men of best repute for Religion Estates & Integrity of the dutch Nacon throughout the whole Province having alwayes been manifestly against Leysler & his Society in all their illegall & Irregular proceedings. Endorsed Answer to ye Memoriall %* Bayard & Nicolls were the authors of this, & the following papers, the date of which is 27, April 1691. LIEUT. GOV. LEISLERL 391 A NARRATIVE IN ANSWER TO THEIR MAJTES LETTER. I find that Jacob Leislaer a man of disporate fortune ambitiously did assume unto himselfe the title of Liev governour of this provins of new Yorke and Chose a Council of the meanest and most abject Common people made to himselfe a broad seale which he called the seale of the province with the usual armes of the kings of englandt and affixed the same to some unlawful grants of lands within this province and Commissionated under the same Justices of the pease in whose hearts were mischiefe he Constituted Courts of oyer and terminer and tryed severall subjects for pretended treason murther and other Crimes he taxed and levyed mony upon their majestie Subjects to their grievous oppression and great Impoverishment When he wanted more mony for his occasions he forcibly robbed and spoiled broake open doors and locks where he guessed it was to be found and Caryed away to the value of some thousands of pounds in mony or goods and all this against the best protestant subjects in the province He imprisoned whom he feared without any other Cause than that their integritie to the protestant interest and fidelyty to their Majesties became a terrour to him some of them after tedious Confinement without Colour of law he Whipt & branded and some he kept Induresse so long as he hould the ffortt Upon the news of Maj, Ingoldsbys arrivall with their Matys forces under his Command the said Leisler fortifyed and recruited himselfe in the fort with such persons as wal from the neighbouring Colonyes as in this province who were knowne to be of principles Contrary to the Intrest of the Crown when the Major Came to New Yorcke he made great preparations as if he were to hold out a long siege and night and day was taking in flower beefe porke &c: in great quantytyes notwithstanding the Majr and the rest of the gentl Commissionated from their Matyes gave him that satisfaccon to show their Commisions and tell him that governour Sloughter was upon his way Coming hither that they were Come hither to defend and protect the Country and that he would lodge his men. in the towne and suffer him to hold the fort till the governours arrivall this did not answer his ends his Inpatience became the 392 ADMINISTRATION OF greater he sent out his Incendiaryes all over the Country and neighbouring Colonys to bring in ayd att length fired upon the Maj's Rounds and toock three of them prisoners and att last declared open Warr against the Major and all that would adhere unto him and discovered as black and desperate disignes as can be thought upon gave orders to the blockhouse a fortification att the opposite Corner of the Citty where he had a strong garrison Comamanded under him by one of his Lievts brasier to suffer no Soldiers nor others whatsoever to appear armed before the same and if otherwise to fire att them said he would doe the same from the fortt and att length contrived to sally out upon the towne and kill all that should be found in the streets or elsewhere in arms and accordingly orders and a signe was given to the blockhouse he shott a Carman throw the shoulder being in sight of the fort with his Cart loaded and Refusing to Cary his load thither and killd the Carmans horse fired great gunns throw severall houses of the Citty particularly throw the house where he under stood their Matyes Soldiers and Amniccon was lodged killed one Josiah browne an old soldier one negroe and wounded a great many subjectt in the streets he had 16 or 17 bulletts in the fire Redhott to fire the town withall and had not the guilty Consciences of his weak followers smott them upon the governours arrivall (if he Could have effected it) he had Cutt of not only their Maties souldiers but every one that were assisting them in their defence the noyse and shouting that followed upon the Governor landing being come in the pinnace by the back side of nutten Island made the hearts of his followers to devide. he three times denyed to surrender the fort to the Governour but att laest a Convussion falling upon his followers he was forced with his Secry Milbourne and others of desperate intentions to surrender themselves and become prisoners leisler and Milbourne did shew great stubbornesse upon their arraignment and were Mute Where upon they were Condemned many of the people of this province have been debauched with strange principles and tenetts Concerning goverment and are not easily to be rooted out new england hath had a great shere in these trouble & in poysoning of this people many here of Considerable fortune and knowne integrity to the Crown of england whose lives and fortunes have almost been LIEUT. GOV. LEISLER. 393 Ship wracht are uneasy thinking it Will never afterwards be safe for them to live in this province nor can their lives or fortunes ever be secure if such men doe survive to head an ignorant Mobile here upon occasion, and if some Example be not made of such Criminalls to future generacons especially they having Committed barefaced and open Rebellion against their Maties authoryty here published and declared and his officers and souldier sent immediately from ther Majesties Their Government can never be safe in these Colonyes. Endorsed A Narrative in answer to their Matyes Letr of Leisler &c NICHOLAS BAYARD'S CLAIM. NICHOLAS BAYARD hereby enters his Claime and demand in the Secretarie's office against the Undernamed persons for the Severall dammages by him Sustained in the times of the late rebellion & disorders within this Province vizt Imp3 ffor the ffals Imprisonmt of the sd Bayard during the space of 14 Months to the dammage of him the sd Bayard ~5000. by the hands & means of Peter Lanoy Abram Mol Samuel Staets Cornelis Bulsing Samuel Edsal Joost Carelsen Hendrick Van Veurden Jeremias Jansen Benjamin Blagge Johannes Mortier Jan Hendrickx d'Bruyn Johan Markener Jacob Mourits Poulus Turcq Jan Spratt Jan van Gelder Wm Churcher Herry Breser Aren't ffredrix Jan Willemsen Roomer item ffor the several assaults forces Wrongs Spoils & Injuries done perpetrated & Committed in the house and uppon the Estate of the sd Bayard to the dammage of him the sd Bayard ~200 by the undernamed persons -vzt 394 ADMINISTRATION OF Jan Bribout Mattys Cornelisen Dirck ten Eyck Willem Tyssen Jan Bennet Johannes van Giesen Joris Martensen Arien Willemsen Govert Hollar Jacob Jorisen Johannes Tiebout Jurian Nagel Jacobus Cock Dated In New Yorke this 7th of Septr 1691. N. BAYARD. THE COMPRIZING BILL of the whole charges in the Quarter ending the 25th Decemb 1691 fforfeitures of Delinquents Discounted for by Tho. Codrington high Sheriff of the City and County of New York Levyed from peter Jacob Marius & Evert Deykin.... 85 10 Levyed from Rip Van Dam................... 47 10 from Jacob Morris.................. 76 from Joln Provost....... *............. 47 10 from Hend: Jansen Van Worden.......*.... 50 306 10 COMPRIZING BILL of the Whole Charge arising out of the produce of the Revenue in this Quarter ended Michels 1692. ffines & fforfeitures. Leveyed from Johannes Provoost by ThomasCoddrington Esq. High Sheriff of the City 45.00.00 & County of New York Extracted out of the auditted acet of the Revenue p me B CozzENs Clk Concilii WIDDOW LEISLER'S PETICON TO INGOLDSBY. New Yorke To the Right Honble Majr Richard Ingoldsby Esqr Gour & ye Honble Councill for this Prouince of New Yorke &c The Petition: of Else Leisler Widdow of Jacob Leisler. MOST HUMBLY SHIEWETH That yor Distressed: petition' Some time Since: received LIEUT. GOY. LEISLERo 395 Information: by ye high Shrife of this City and County. that. yor petitioner Should remaine in Possession: of the Estates of her. Late Husband: Vntill their Majtis pleasure Should be Knowne. And Whereas ye bookes: of acctts &c & boat belonging to. Said. Estate, are in youer honnorrs Custodes as also Sume. part: of ye Said Estate in the County. of Suffolk being Seized. by. the. high: Shrife of Said County & yor petinor being Destitued. of. any Maenes. for. ye Support of her Selfe & distressed family: for the approaching Winter Yor Honnr Petitioner therefore Most [humbly craves your Honors] consideracon & that your Honnors would Mercifully be pleased to cause ye sd bookes & papers and boat to be delivered unto yor peticoner as allso that those goods Sized in Suffolk County may be discharged that So yor petitionr May rep her benefit of ye Same.And yor Peticoner as in duty bound Shall most humbly Pray &c: ELSIE LEISLER. BARTH LeROUX'S CLAIME. BARTHOLEMEW LE Roux hereby enters his Claime and Demand in the Secretarys office Against the undernamed Persons for the damage by him sustained in the Times of the Late Rebellion and Disorders Within this Province Vizt for the sume of Twelve Pounds & Ten Shillings for five Barrells of Porke taken from him by the Undermentioned Partyes Vizt Nicholas Blanck Urian Nagell William Churcher Dated at New York this q7t of 7ber 1691. BARTH: LE Roux To the Honorable Major Richard Ingoldsby esq. Comandr in Chiefe of their Majties Province of New York &c And to the Honorable Councill The humble Peticon of John Jeronison Thomas Morgan Lawrence Johnson John Peterson and Dirick Crews Chauck Pallion and John Bedine HUMBLY SHWETH unto yr honors that in the late revolution of Gov.. 396 ADMINISTRATION OF ernment vnder Jacob Leysler the said Leysler sent [your petitioners freeholders] of Staten Island to comand some of the Inhabitants thereon to Assist one Johannis Burger Sergeant of the fort vnder Leyslers Comand to goe to Elizabeth Towne to secure and seize on some porke then belonging to Mr plowman late Collector of New Yorke, vnder the pretence of the said Collector being considerably Indebted to the King And was Absented your petrs Amongst severall others was Comanded to goe who out of true zeal for their Majties service did goe to Elizabeth Towne with the said Burger and others who did their seize About fifty barrells of Beefe and porke the which belonged to the said plowman and was brought here to new yorke and delivered to said Leysler, as yor petrs are Informed did Imploy the same for the service of the Souldiers then at Albany, for the security of their Majties Subjects there Against the ffrench, Yet soe it is may it please yor honors that yor petrs perticulerly are now sued by the said plowman for the said Provisions at the next Court of Sessions at Staten Island Contrary to the true meaning of the proclamation Issued out by his late Excellency Collon11 Slaughter and ye Assembly yor petrs Judging it very hard that they Alone should be forced to bare the burthen of it when soe many others were concerned And the whole Country received the benefitt of it your [petrs] humbly prayes yor honrs consideration in the premises And that yor honors will order the said action to cease till the time lymited in the proclamacon be expired, And in the meane time to Consider some way to ease yor petrs from the whole burthen thereof, by ordering sattisfaction to be made to the said plowman by the publique or by Allotting each person that was concerned therein to pay their Equall proporceons of the same And yor petri in Duty bound will ever pray &ct Endorsed, Petition of the Persons on Staten Island Claimed agst & Presented by PLOWMAn LIEUT GOV. LEISLER, 39'7 APOLONIA WELCH'S DEPOSITION. Aprill 19th 1693. Apolonia Welch reports that an Indian who gives himselfe the name of Capt Billop Sunday the 16th instant Declared that the number of 350 Indians of Hagen Sack and Tapan would make war against Newyorke for the blood of Leisler that nothing but a sume of money should make satisfaccon that when his Excelly went for Philadelphia the action will beginn and that the Indian was sober when he spoake these words and further says that as the Governr passed her mothers house in his coach in the time of this discourse she told him there was the man they were talking of commending His Excelly for a brave man the Indian said it would then be the better for him and that notwithstanding his horses two would be sufficient to dispatch him And further saith That another Indian came in whom he saluted by the name of Captain Busch who asked him why he did play the fool to tell what they had designed and took him by the hand and conveyed him away And that on Tuesday the 18th in the morning another Indian came in to her mothers house to whom her mother said what had passed on Sunday the 16th that the Indians were to make warr with the English he replyed it was true but they would not doe any harm to her. DEPOSITIONS OF SUNDRY PERSONS. JOHN PETERSON of New York in America Carpenter, Aged forty three years, or thereabouts make oath, that he this deponent on or about the one & thirtieth day of May Anno 1689 was at New York aforesaid, when the revolution happened there, & this deponent did then observe most part of the Inhabitants take Arms, & possessed themselves of the fort or Citadell & did thereupon declare for his then Royal highness the Prince of Orange (now our gracious Sovereign) & the defence of the protestants Religion, & having Seized the said fort as aforesaid-the Said Inhabitants did send to the Captains of the Militia requiring them to repair into the said fort, to Exercise their several commands & this 398 ADIINISTRATION OF deponent further Say that Capt Charles Lodwick, one of the Said Militia Captains had the first Command of the guard after the Seizure of the said fort by the inhabitants & that the other Militia Captains did amount the said guards by turns amongst whom Capt Jacob Leisler deceased did duty in his turn, & this deponent further saith that on or abt the tenth of June following, the said Captain Leisler having then the Guard of the said fort the happy news of their Majesties accession to the throne arrived at New York whereupon the said Captain Leisler as this deponent has been credibly informed & believes did proclaim their Majesties King William & Queen Mary with the Consent & approbation of the greater part of the inhabitants who assisted at the same & further Saith that about a month after a Committee of the representatives of the said Province in the nature of a Generall Assembly was held in the said City of New York to Consider & provide for the security of the said province till their Majesties pleasure was Known who thereupon did appoint the said Captain Leisler to be a Commander of the said fort (Captain Francis Nicholson, the late Deputy Governor being before that time departed out of the said Province) & the said Captain Leisler immediately, fortified the said fort & City which before was very Runious & uncapable to make defence & destitute of ammunition & this deponent further Saith that disturbances happening in the Town of Albany which is a frontier towards the french Colony, the said Captain Leisler did provide & Send men Arms & other Necessaries for the defence thereof & this deponent Saith that the Said G11 Committee being reassembled about the Month of August following & finding it necessary for their Majesties Service & the Safety of the said province to have a Commander in Chief. the said Committee did elect & Authorize the said Capt Leisler to be a Commander in Chief of the said province till further orders from their Majesties-& the said Captain Leisler was acknowledged as such by the inhabitants & did Administer the Government with great Prudence & Conduct for the service of their Majesties & the good & Satisfaction, of the people & this Deponent further Saith, that the french having invaded the North part of the said Province & Burned, SCHANECKTADE, being a large town Killing a great many LIEUT. GOV. LEISLER. 399 people & taking Several Prisoners. this deponent & about a hundred & Thirty other persons were Commanded by the said Capt Leisler, to March to their relief being about one hundred & forty English Miles in which Service he continued about seven months & by the order of the said Captn Leisler they did fortify the said Town of Albany & otherwise provided for the security of these parts after which this deponent returned to New York being relieved by other Soldiers who were sent to Albany by the said Captain Leisler & this deponent further Saith that the said Capt Leisler did Exercise. & Command in Chief of the Said Province & was so owned by the people from the said month of August 1689, till the latter end of January 1690 when Captain Richard Ingoldesby arrived with some Soldiers at New York who as this deponent was informed did demand the possession of the said fort & Government, & this deponent saith, that he being in the block house, with about an hundred others for the defence thereof this deponent did see one great Gun, & was informed & believes, there were Two other great Guns planted against the said Block house by the said Capt Ingoldesby & his party & Saith that the said Block House was several times Summoned to surrender to the said Ingoldesby & Shortly after did Surrender to him accordingly the burgers being to have Arms which however were after taken from them & more saith notSigned JOHN PIETERSON. Jurat 19. Febri 1691 Coram me Magro Cancell Signed S. KECK. JOHN VESSELLS of the province of New York in America Chirurgion Aged two & twenty years or there about Maketh Oath, That he this deponent was present at new York on or about the one & thirtieth day of May Anno Dom 1689 when the revolution happened some time before which news came that the Prince of Orange was Landed with an Army in England & that a revolution had been Made in New England & other places, whereupon a Great number of the Inhabitants on the east end of Long Island & other places of the province of. New York, did Assemble together, & Sent five of their Captains to the City of New York requiring the inhabitants 400 ADMINISTRATION OF thereof to take possession of & Secure the fort, the same being the Strenth of the Country, but at this time very ruinous & incapable of defence & unfurnished with ammunitions & Stores & this deponent Saith that Some few days after the comming of the said Captains from Long Island, the people of New York being under greater Apprehensions of danger they did unanimously except not above twenty persons some of whom were papists seize & take possession of the said fort the deputy govenor being at that time in the City at a Tavern & Said that at the Seizing of the Said Fort Several officers of the militia did Join & assist therein particular Captain Lodwick & Captain De Peister & that this deponent did see several of these inhabitants require Captain Jacob Leisler to require into the said fort most of his Company of Soldiers being interred before, & this deponent Saith that the said Captain Lodwick by order of the inhabitants, did fetch the keys of the fort from the said Deputy Governor, who Afterwards departed out of the said province & the Captains of the Militia Did in their turns, keep guard in the said fort & City & this deponent saith that Shortly after the said Captain Jacob Leisler having the Command of the said Guards in his turn, the happy intelligence of their Majesties accession to the Crown arrived whereupon the said Capt Leisler did proclaim their Majesties King William & Queen Mary in the Accustomed places in the said City & in several other parts of the said Province, with all the Solemnity usual & this deponent saith that upon the advice & direction of the officers & principal inhabitants a general Committee or Assembly of the representatives of the said province was summoned & did meet the month of June in the Year 1689 aforesaid, who amongst other provisions for the safety of the Country did Appoint the said Captain Leisler to be Captain & Commander of the said fort till further order from their Majesties, & accordingly the said Capt. Leisler took possession thereof & did very well fortify the said fort & City & provided ammunition. & Stores & further saith that sometimes after the said Committee being met again & finding it necessary for their Majesties Service & defence of the said Province to have a Commander in Chief thereof did Elect & Commissionate the said Captain Leisler to be a Commander in Chief till orders come from their Majesties, & LIEUT. GOV.. LEISLER. 401 the said Captain Leisler did Act accordingly & was owned to be Commander in Chief by all the inhabitants both of the City & Country, Except Some who were disaffected & had opposed the revolution & further saith that about the tenth of December following a Messinger arrived with a letter from his Majesty directed to Francis Nicholson Esqr & in his absence to such as for the time being take care for preserving the peace & administring the laws of the said province of New York long before which the said Captain Nicholson was departed & the said Captain Leisler had the government without the opposition of any others but upon the Comming of the said Letters, this deponant Saith MrA Frederick Vlypson & Stephanus Van Courtlandt did demand the same as having been Members of the said Captain Nicholson's Council, but the said Messinger & the said Mr Flypson & Van Courtlandt went next day to the Said Captain Leisler in the fort Amongst whom it was debated to whom the said letter did properly belong & ought to be delivered, whereupon the said Messenger did deliver the Said letter to the said Captain Liesler who afterwards caused the same to be published in the City & was thereupon with general Applause again acknowledged by the people to be commander in Chief, after which this deponent being Absent from the said Province, did not return there again till the Month of May last when Captn Leisler Mr Milborne & Six Others were in prison under the sentence of Death for some pretended Murder & treason & this deponent did Afterwards see the said Captain Leisler & Mr Milborne put to Death Accordingly. & this Deponent saith that the Said Captain Leisler upon the proclamation of their Majesties did Cause the inhabitants, to take the Oaths of allegince to King William & Queen Mary. this deponent then taking the same himself —& that the said Captain Leisler, before the said revolution was a Merchant of a very good Estate both real & personal & had very great dealings & during his government did Expend great sums of his own Money for their Majesties Service & the defence of The province, & further doth not deposeJurat 19 Feby. 1691 coram me Mag-ro Cancell S. KECK Signed, JOHANNES WESSELLS VOL. II. 26 402 A.DMNISTRATION OF RoBERT SINCLAIR of the Citty of New York in a merica Commander of the Ship Resolution maketh oath, that he this deponent, hath been an Inhabitant of the Said City about nine Years and upwards, of three Years since he went a Voyage from thence to Jamaica & returned to New York about the Beginning of March 1689, when Captain Leisler was in possession of the fort & government of the said province, as Lieut Govenor & Commander in Chief, & was Acknowledged as such by the generallity of the People, & Saith that this deponent found the said City & fort well fortified which was done, as this deponent was informed & beleives by the said Captain Leisler-The fortifications of the aid City when this deponent went to Jamaica being runious & uncapable of defence to the best of his Judgment & further Saith that the said Captain Leisler at Several times did send Soldiers & Ammunitions & provisions, for the defence of Albany & the Northern part of the Country against the french who had invaded the same & burnt the town of Schanhectade & Killed great numbers of People & taken many prisoners & done many other great Mischief as this deponent was informed & verily beleives, & also saith that there came an account of New Yorke, that trench Privateers had arrived at Block Island & had taken & plundered the same Whereupon the said Captain Leisler immediately did fit out five Vessels well provided with men guns ammunition & provisions & in three days time sent them to find out and fight the french privateers. This Deponent being Master of the Admiral in the said Service, & Saith that the Said Captain Leisler to the best of this deponents observations did upon that & other Occasions) act the most that he could for the Interest of their Majesties King William & Queen Mary & the Security of the Country & also Saith. whilst this deponent continued in New York there was a general Assembly held of the representatives of the Province who made several Publick Acts & did grant a tax to their Majesties of three pence in the pound of all Estates, both real & personal, & the said assembly did likewise own the government & authority of the Said Captain Leisler till further orders from the King, & Saith that being a want of Stores & necessaries provisions for the Soldiers, who were sent against LIEUT. GOV. LEISLER. 403 the French & the Said Captain Leisler not having money of the Kings To Supply the same as this deponent beleives he was necessitated to press & take divers Quantities of several Sorts of Goods from many of the inhabitants & in particular between fifteen & Twenty pounds worth of linen & wollon from this deponent for the use aforesaid for which this deponent has a receipt given him onl the Kings Account by Mr Peter De la Noy their Majistics collector who also told this deponent there was credit given for the Value of Such goods in the Kings Book & that the same should be repaid when the Kings revenue came in, & this deponent doth in his conscience believe that the goods so taken were really employed in their Majesties Service. & not converted to the private Benefit of the said Captain Leisler & also saith that he did knew Mathew Pluman formerly collector at New York who was turned out for being professed Papists during whose Collectorship the said Captain Leisler had a Ship with some Vines arrived at New York who did Acquaint this deponent, that he had made an Entry of Said Vines in the Custom House & that some days after the said Entry was returned back to him by the said Pluman & Saith that he was informed that there were not above an hundred Pipes of wine in the said Vessel the Custom whereof came to forty Shillings per pipe but whether there were so many pipes of Wine, or how many of them were Captain Leisler's this deponent Knoweth not & further saith that about the Month of September Nno 1690 Captain William Mason & Captain Francis Goderis by virtue of a Commission from Captain Leisler, did take & Seize from the Subjects of the french King Six Ships which they brought into the fort of New York were they were condemned upon full Evidence as lawfull prizes in a Court of Admiralty. When this deponent was a commissioner & after-wards the said Ship was sold at a publick Vendue to the highest bidder & this deponest Saith that Captain Jacob Mawritz did Buy one of the said Ships Called the St Pierre & afterwards the Francis & since the Beaver for which he gave Five hundred pounds as this deponent has been informed & believes and afterwards this deponent did very often see the Said Ship in the possession of the said Captain Mauritz who repaired the 404 ADMINISTRATION OF same & loaded Tobacco & Log wood in her & was bound for England & Holland as was expressed in his bill set up in the usual Place, but after the arrival of Co1 Sloughter to New York the Said Ships, & the Ship whereof this deponent is Commander which was afterwards taken from the French & likewise condemned & Sold as Lawful Prize as aforesaid were taken from the persons who had bought them by order of the said Governor Sloughter, who declared that the Commissions by which the said Ships were taken from the french & the Condemnation & Sale of them as aforesaid were all void & of none effect as being done by the authority of Captain Leisler which he declared to be insufficient & therefore the said Sloughter did appoint a Court Admiralty to Condemn the said Ships again which Court accordingly did condemn the Ship of which this deponent is Commander & Captain Mauritz' Said Ship was sold to Mr Frederic Flipson of the Council at New York, & this deponent did see the goods laden by Captain Mauritz as aforesaid taken out of the Said Ship & this deponent further saith that upon the arrival of Captain Ingoldesbey with Soldiers at New York this deponent did hear he required the possession of the fort from Captain Leisler, who refused to deliver the same without orders from his Majesties Col Sloughter but as this deponent was informed did offer the said Capt Ingoldesby the best accommodation for the said Captn Ingoldesby & his Soldiers in the City & this deponent saith that he has been credibly informed by divers persons that Captain Leisler & Mr.Milborne did upon their Trial appeal to the King & desire to be sent for England & further saith upon the Election for Assembly men after the Arrival of Col1 Sloughter Captain De Peyster was directed by the majority of voices as this deponent believes, but was cryed out for a Rebel & rejected, & one Mr Graham was turned in his Steade & this deponent saith that he knew Captain Leisler about twelve years that he had a Good real and personal Estate & was a Merchant of great dealing & very good reputation & further doth not depose Signed ROBT SINCLAIR Jurat 23d die Feby 1691 n Coram me Magro Cancell., LACON WM CHILITZ LIEUT. GOV. LEISLER. 405 DANIEL DE KLERCK aged about 38 years inhabitant of the province of New York in America doth upon his oath by him taken on the holy Evengalists depose to be true That he this deponant about the month of May 1689 (the exact time he doth not remember) was in person in the City of New York aforesaid & did then & there see, that the Inhabitants, or the greatest part of them did come in fully armed & took possession of the fort of New York Aforesaid That soon after he this deponent Did see & read a letter written from those of the said fort, to the Inhabitants of the County of Orange, requesting them with all Speed to Choose two Commissioners & send them to New York there to Consult what might be best & most advantageous for the welfare of the.country & the protestant religion that the Inhabitants of Orange aforesaid After an assembly held of all the Country & Mature deliberation had & all matters Duely weighed, did freely unanimously elect & chose two fit & experienced persons Qualified for Commissioners aforesaid to whom (as also all the other Country's likewise did) full power & Authority was given there to consult do transact & perform all & Whatsoever they according to their Judgment & Advice should think to tend, most to the welfare of the country & the protestant religion that the said two Commissioners. being come to New York it was thought fit & ordered in the general Assembly, that the person of Jacob Leisler should be chosen to take upon himselfe the Chief Command of the Said fort & the same to hold until further orders should come from England-that The said Jacob Leisler being thus Chosen by the general votes, to be Captain of the said Fort He did thereupon take the Command upon him & afterwards with the approbation & consult of the Commissioners in general & of the whole assembly for the better Security of the said fort of New York he took into his Service fifty Souldiers That the said Leisler was also ordered & had license & Consent to fortify the said City the Castle of the same & all that was needfull with all speed & in the best manner he could & put the same into a Posture of defence That some time afterwards by the said Commissioners & commander Leisler Joost Stoll Ensign in the fort was nominated & Deputed to go as 406 ADMINISTRATION OF Messinger to England to deliver to his present Majesty-King William the letters & Papers Containing a full relation of All that had passed-That the said Leisler was also appointed by the said General Deputies in their assembly to be commander in Chief of all the said province of New York, & he was so acknowledged &; allowed by the greatest part of the force & People, even untill Such time that a letter came from his said Majesty whereof the said letter was confirmed as Lieut General & com-. mander in Chief & was for & as such respected by the people which place he did officiate & serve untill Captain Ingoldesby arrived there with Several Soldiers (about a year since) who did Shortly after raise Several batteries in the City against the fort and besiege the same & he continued this his proceedings until governor Sloughter Arrived there, as he did sometimes after, the said beseiging in an afternoon towards the Evening. That in the same evening about Twilight the said Captain Ingoldesby having demanded the fort, the Secretary Jacob Milborne went out to him & desired him to Shew his orders from the King which the said Ingoldesby refused to do That a little time afterwards the said Stoll was sent out to see whither the said Sloughter was arrived, whereupon being come back to the fort, he Acquainted him, that it was the same person that was Called Sloughter in England. That the said Evening were sent out of the fort by the said Leisler The said Milborne & Peter De la Noy Mayor of the said City of New York, to welcome & congratulate the said Sloughter. & also to see the letters & Quality which he had from the King, but they instead of returning were closely confined, That the next morning the said Leisler sent a Draummer out of the fort with a letter directed to the said Sloughter whereby he desired him to come & take possession of the fort, but the drummer was also secured That immediately after the said Captain Ingoldesby being come to the fort, the same was delivered up to him by the said.Leisler & afterward by order of the said Sloughter all was given up to him & his men) all which was so done by the said Leisler freely of himself & without constraint that shortly after the delivery of the sa.id fort by the said Leisler, the said InGoldesby was particulary LIEUT. GOV. LEISLER. 407 desired by him, which he also promised that about half an hour after full possession had of the fort, All the Arms goods & Effects which the Inhabitants Should leave there should be fairly delivered & restored to them which' was not done, but to the Contrary besides the detention of their goods & effects The men as they went out of the fort were disarmed & had their Swords taking from them that some days before the said fort was delivered Up one Abraham Brasier Ensign of a Company of Burgers lying in the Block House of New York upon Smiths Vally came into the said fort to make his complaints to the Governor Leisler & to acquaint him that the said Ingoldesby's men did Approach the said Block house desiring his advice thereupon, what they should do in case they should continue near the Block-house or attack the same in an Hostile manner That thereupon an order in writing was given to the said Ensign by the said Leisler containing that if the said Ingoldesby's men should attack the Block house they should immediately give a signal By firing a gun & then those of the fort would draw out to their Assistance but the said Block house was possessed by the said Ingoldesby's men before the said Ensign returned from the fort were he remaineth Lastly he this deponent doth declare That shortly after the said Sloughter had taken possession of the said fort several of the Inhabitants of the province fled from thence as well by reason of their threats, as out of fear that they should be ill used by the men of the said Sloughter, as they had then already seen sufficient Exemples of the Inhabitants, some whereof were put in prison, & others had money extracted from them Signed DANIEL DE KLrEcK Jurat 24 die Feby. 1691 coram me magro cancell This is truly Translated by me ANT. WRIGHT, Nof. 169JACOB WILLIAMS of Chancery Lane in the Liberty of the Rolls in the County of Middle Sex Aged Seven & twenty Years or thereabouts maketh oath that he this deponent before the month 408 ADMINISTRATION OF of May 1689 & from that time to about the Month of May 1691. was resident in New York in America & that upon the late revolution the Inhabitants of New York aforesaid not being Satisfied of the Strength of the Garrison & not Knowing whether the powder there was good proof 15. of the Burghers made application to the Council & Mayor and Alderman that care might be taken of the Powder in the fort, to know whether it was good, & that the Garrison might be fortified (for fear of being Surprised in Case of an Enemy) & that the Garrison being but Small the inhabitants themselves offered & were admitted to do Duty in the fort as it came to their turns, that the Captains never came upon duty in the fort but sent a Lieut & that whilst this deponent was in the fort one Lieut Henry Cuyler commanded a Centry, one of the burghers to be set upon a Sally port whereupon the Corporal of the Garrison asked him what he had to do there or to that Effect who replyed he was set there by his Officer, the Corporal & Lieut of the Burghers was sent for by the Governor & after his return the Lieut of the Burghers ordered his men to be at Arms all night, that the next morning a Council of war was called, the Lieut was called before them and discharged of his as he told the inhabitants whose Apprehensions of publick dangerous Mutiny increased that immediately after the drums Beating in the Town most of the inhabitants came & took possession of the fort & then one Capt Lodwick who commanded that night was sent by them to command the keys of the Lieut governor which was delivered & his Company remaineth in the fort that this deponent every 5th night afterwards, as his turn came watched with his officers & so continued to do Duty till June or July following. that Captain Leisler being upon Duty in the fort in his turn Received the Kings proclamation and did order their Majesties to be proclaimed but Stephen Van Courtlandt who was then Mayor refused so to do because he said the proclamation was not directed to them After which the representatives of the Country met to consider what was best to be done & whereupon they found it convenient that out of the five Militia Captains belonging to the place one Should be Chosen to be Commander of the fort, & accordingly they choose Captain Leisler who was commissionated by them & accordingly LIEUT. GOV. LEISLER. 409 took possession of the said fort & fortified it forthwith & opened the well therein which was Stopt up & the said Captain Leisler was afterwards commissionated Commander in Chief of the whole Province, by the said Committee & Continued to Govern as such till his Majesties Letter Arrived. That this deponent being present at the delivery of the Letter Mr Riggs the Messenger that brought it delivered the same to Captain Leisler in the presence of Mr Courtlandt & Mr Philipse without any force or Compulsion, the said Mr Riggs declared that he had seen Captain Leisler's Commission & was convinced that it belonged to him, & Mr Leisler gave him a receipt for the said letter accordingly & that during Leisler command, one Nicholas Bayard who was formerly & is now of the Council being taking prisoner for some Writings of Dangerous imports & for Raising great disturbances in the country, the said Mr Bayard did Say that he could not own King William to be a Lawful King as long as King James was alive that Leisler thereupon continued to Command as Lieut Govenor till Captain Ingoldesby arrived which was about January last, was twelve Months who upon his Arrivall demanded the fort by virtue of his Captain's Commission but Captain Leisler refused to deliver it up till he had his Majesties, or Govenor Sloughter's orders, but thereupon Captain Leisler did prefer Captain Ingoldesby all Accommodations for himself at his own house & to find quarters for the Soldiers in the Burgher's Houses till the arrivall of the Said Govenour who was then gone for Bermudas as this deponent was informed but he refused to accept of it Saying he wanted possession of the Kings fort that afterwards Ingoldesby came aShore & assembled Many people in Arms amongst which was some papists & abundance of French particular one Fumy a papist & raised bateries & fired against the fort & Continued in Arms about Six weeks & then the Govenor Arrived. After whose arrival the said Captain Ingoldesby demanded the fort in the govenors Name but they having before had Several false reports, that the govenor was Arrived, they did not then beleive it to be true & therefore did send one who Knew the govenor, to learn the Certainty thereof who being returned brought word that the Govenor was come whereupon Capt Leisler did immediately send the Secretary & the 410 ADMINISTRATION OF Mayor of the City to Wait upon the Govenor. & to let him kmow that the fort & all things were ready for him but as soon as they Came to the Govenor, they were committed to prison without being permitted to Speak to him who not returning the said Capt. Leisler very early the next morning did send again to CoI Sloughter to come & receive the fort & accordingly did deliver the same of his own accord & without Compulsion from the Burghers who laid down their Arms upon Captain Leisler's Command but after the said Captain Leisler & Mr Milborne & divers others were made prisoners & the Burghers disarmed but two days before the Govenor arrived Ingoldesby fired upon the fort, & some few Shots were fired from the fort during which a man was killed of Ingoldesby's Side who as this deponent was told by Ingoldesby's men was shot by themselves, they thinking he had,been one of those belonging to the fort by reason he had no mark about his arm as were Used by Ingoldesby's men & this deponent further saith that whilst Ingoldesby, besieged the said fort Ensign Abraham Brasier, who Command the Block house, did come & acquaint Capt Leisler in the fort that the said Block house was in danger of being attacked by Ingoldesby's men & by the french desiring order for Security thereof whereupon Captain Leisler in this deponent's presence did give orders. that in Case of any such attempt the said Brasier should fire a great [gun] from the Block House which should be answered by another from the fort. & then Captain Leisler would send to their relief but soon After new's Came that the Block House was surrendered. & so that no use was made of the said order & Brasier remaineth in the fort till after the arrival of Colonel Sloughter & this deponent heard Captain Leisler & Mr Milborne declare after they Came from before the court. that they had appealed from the Judges there to his Majesty & desireth to be sent to England to answer what should bee objected against them, & further Saith not Signed JAcoB WILXmIAiS Jurat 240 Feby 1691 coram me magro Cancell So KEcK LIE''T. GOV. LEISLER. 411 Mas. DEBnonAH CRUNDELL deposed that about 4: weekes past shee had some discours with the wife of Johannes Clopper about a new Governour that should be appointed by ye King for this place, and the deponant saing that she had heard the present Commander in Chief Majr Richard Ingolsby stood fair for ye place the sd wife of Johannes Clopper answered, no that Murtherers dogg will never have ye place, or words to that effect. Sworn before.N York 1692 FREDICK PHILIPS 9 Juin N. BAYARD Augt the 18th 1692. JomH GARDNMR of Newwarke in East Jersey upon oath saith that sometime in the spring Gerryt Duyckins frequenting his house was a great news carrier & one day Came for a pr hand screws & said he was a rascall and a great many more at N Yorke that Gerry Hollant & Peter Williamse at the point hath brought news from N. Yorke that Leislers widdow hath a Lre that her son is to be D Govrs Secy or Collr It is our day now there is a day comming these Rogues haue murdered Milborne & Leisler & will shortly be hanged for it This Gardner asked what rogues do you mean I mean said he Sloughter that is gone to the Devill & that pitifull Capt. the Majr Capt of 50 men he is noe more a Governr then I am but a Murderer what others do you mean Coll Bayard & ffred Phillips that haue sold the Countrey to the ffrench & Pinhorne I hope to see them all hanged by the heels That his friends had wrote to Holland to the states that they haue sent one of the states to the King to tell him that if he did not take care of them'they would & that the King was very Angry & approved of Leislers actions. 412 ADMINISTRATION OF To His Excellency BENJAMIN FLETCHER Capt Gener1l and Governr in Chiefe of their Majesties Province of New Yorke &c. The Humble Petition of Thomas Statham of the County of Westchester. SHEWETH unto your Excellency That In the Time of the Late Disorder by the Impertunity of Richard Panton of Westchester & others youre Petitionr did take a Commission under Jacob Leisler as Sherriff of said County not knowing otherwise but that the said Jacob Leisler had Received Letters Patents from their MajestieS King William & Queen Mary Authorizing the said Jacob to do the same as by those which were Conversant with him did Report for undoubted truths. Whereupon the twenty fourth day of ffebruary in the second yeare of their Majesties Reigne one Gabriell Legatt of said County did abuse one Thomas Williams pretended Councellor to the said Jacob Leisler In a very gross manner whereby the said Richard Ponton one of the Justices. then made by the said Leysler in the said County of Westchester. took upon himselfe (vpon the Complaint of the said Thomas Williams) to issue out a Warrant of Commitment Directed to youre Poor Petitionr & Commanding him as he would Answer the Contrary at his perill to Take the said Gabriel Legat into safe Custadv. which was done by yor Excellency's poore Petitionr not known bettr And the said Gabriel was under Confinement About Tenn hours & then lett out by order of the then Justices Whereupon a Court of Sessions held at Westchester in March the next following the said Gabriel Logatt Appered @ did acknowledge his fault @ all was past By @ forgiven, yet nevertheless the said Gabriell Logatt-In May after the Arrivall of Collo: Slaughter Commenced an Action against yor poore Petitioer for a Assault @ false Imprisonmt done to him about the Occation aforesaid to the value of Two hundred pounds which was Executed by Benjamin Collier high Sherriff whereby he was in on undoubted fear of Being utterly undone and being a Prisoner and having no friend to Councell withall Did Signe to an obligation to pay him twenty five pounds which was the demands of the Said Gabriel. Afterwards the Said Richard Phanton by his Refractory language LIEUT. GOV. LEISLER. 413 Against the Govermt was by a Speciall Warrant carred down to New Yorke @ their put under confinement in ye Citty Hall @ their did Remaine Some time after youre Excellencys Arrivall @ then was Released upon which the Said Gabriel Commenced. an accon against the Said Richard by Reason the Sd Richard. was bound Wth yor pettionr joyntly @ Severally to Said Gabriel for the payment of the aforesd Sum of twenty five pounds. Whereupon the Said Gabriel obtained judgement against Said Richard for fifty pounds, by Default at the Supreme Court held at N. Yorke in October last past @ Execution thereupon the Said Richards Estate. Theirupon the Sd Richard cominced an Account against yor poor Petitioner @ obtained a judment against him for fourty pounds @ Cost at a Court of Comon Pleas held at Westchester on the eighth @ ninth days of December @ Still doth Remaine in Sherriffs Custody @ do Expect daylie Execution to be issued out Against him. Therefore without Remedy by order of the Common Law to the utter undoing of yor poor Petitioner, his wife and children Unless yor Excellencys Gracious favour be to him shewed in this Behalfe to Consider the pemises And accordingly to Grant yor Petitionr Such Relief herein as to yor Excellency may Seeme most Agreeable to Justice and Eqvity, And yor Petitionr as in Duty he is Bound, will ever pray. (Endorsed) 7th of Aprill 1693 Referred to Coll: Heathcote. To his Excellency Colo Benjamin Fletcher Esqr Capn Genll Gover in Chief & Vice Admirall of ye Province of New York & dependencyes in America, & ye honble Councel of ye Same. The humble Peticon of Gerardus Beekman Joannes Vermelye, Thomas Williams, Mydert Coerten, Abraham Brasher & Abraham Gouverneur, Prisoners in ye Comon Goale of this City.Humbly Sheweth, That yor Peticoners being condemned at a Court of oyer & terminer held in Aprill 1691 for treasonable & 414 ADMINISTRATION OF fellonious crimes well God knowes we have not comitted obstinately but meaning well & Ignorantly nevertheless we are highly Sensible, & Sorry for ye Same, & cannot but Implore their Maties Mercy) & Comiseracon for our lives, & estates, your Peticonrs therefore humbly desire your Excelly to make applicacon for ye Same to their Maties & In ye meanwhile that you would be pleased to Consider our miserable condicon (having been Imprisoned for upwards of seventeen moneths and caused us to be set at liberty & peaceable enjoymt of our estates & families untill their Maties Pleasure shall arrive. And yor Peticonl as in duty bound, shall ever Pray &c.GERARDUS BEEKMAN JoHANNES VERMELLE THoMAs WILLIAMS MEYNDERT CORTEN ABRAHAM BRASHER.ABRAHAM GOVERNEUR Endorsed The Peticon & submission of the prisoners Condemned to His Exeye the Govern' & Council. To his Excellency Benjamin fletcher Esqr Capt: generall and governour jn Chiefe of ye province of New Yorke I&c ITe humble petition of gerardus Beekman jn habitant of ye towne of Flatbush MOST HUMBLY SHEWETHThat this petitr is at present jn a bond of good behaviour since wch time hath behaved himselfe as a good subject ought to doe, Both to ye king and his people giving no words of any provocation But it is so that on john Tunisse van dyckhuyse makes greate defamations against this petitr Calling him Rough Rachall LIEUT. GOVe LEISLER. 415 treator & Rebele &c. And threatning to persecute him to have Revenge as Long he liveth and what he Could not doe to him would doe to his Children, and that he had not suffered halfe enough but should suffer more, and other words pass at ye house of Mr Jacques Cortelljou jn ye prence of him and his son peter Corteljou a justice of ye peace, and this petitr being jn Clinable to ye peace wold Reconsile wth him, but was Refused this passed ye 28 of Feb: laest since mad this petitr his Complaine on ye 20th day of this month March to ye justices of ye County were ye sd John Tunisse did jterate his defamations & threatning so against this petitr jn ye presence of ye Sd justices who Referred this petit' to ye Law wch did give this petitr present protection against sd John Teunisse whoe being a justice of the peace him selfe, should not breake and violate ye peace, jn defaming & threatning this petitr that is under a bond of his good Bhvior therefore this petitr Craves from his Exellency protection against Sd John Teunisse according as yor Excellency shall judge fitt & Convenient that he may unmolested use his occupations and as jn duty bound shall ever pray &cGERARDUV BEECKMAN March 27th 1693 This Peticon is referred to Col Stephen Cortlandt & to Endorsed Gerardus Beekmans Peticon To His Excellcy Collo Benjamin Ffletcher Esqr Capta Generall and Governor in Chief of new York &c &cThe humrble peticon of John Theunisson John peterson gerard Veghten SEEWETIHumbly, That your petitconers amongst other Inhabitants off This province did signe a Certain petion in the month of aprill 1691 to Crave pardon flor Eight prisoners Then condemned in the Court at New York, ffor weh signing They were seised by Thomas Stillwill sherife who forced Them to pay Three pound 416 ADMINISTRATION OF each off your petonrs and other to signe bonds for to pay three pound, to Him or else to be Cast In prison where off one did Refuse wch was Cast in prison Till he paid sd sume upon wcll news at New Yorke an,Order was sent by Major Ingoldesby and Council some Tyme after That The persons wch signed bonds There should be Discharged Thereoff vpon wch The aforesd sherrife promised To Restore sd sumes off mony to your Peticonr which as yet he has not fullfilledThereffore your Exllys Peticoners Humble Crave that your ESxly will be pleased To order sd Money to be Restored To Them And your Peticoners do further Enforme your Exl1y That by and order off Council of New Yorke sent To Richmond that lone line destroyed] and be valued but The assessors and severall others There having negers doo not pay any Tax for Them so That a poore Inhabitant That has no negers must pay as much accordingly like Them that Has many negers Therefore your petitioners humble crave That your ExIly will be pleased To signify Them iff sd negers should be Excluded ffor paying Taxand your peticoners shall ever Pray GERARD VEGHTEN JAN TEUNISSON VANPELTT JOHN PIETERSON Endorsed The Petition of John Theunisson John Peterson & Gerard Veighton read in Council LIEUT GOVr, LEISLER. 417 To his Excellency Coll: Benjamine Ffletcher CapuT Generall and Governor of the province of New Yorke &c. The Humble Peticon of Peter Delanoy SHEWETH That during the administration of Cap1n Jacob Leisler deed in this province hee your petitionr was nominated and appointed Collector and Receiver generall by virtue of wch offices severall branches of their Maties revenue past through his hands for the payment of wch money hee did from time to time give acet to the said Leisler for and full Sattisfaccon did make for the money soe reed besides your Peticonr did advance on his own acet above four hundred pounds the most of wch was to Expediate the Albany fforces to resist the ffrench of Canada - But soe it is may it please your Excellency that on the arrivall of Coll: Henry Sloughter the late Governour he was requir'd on a Certaine day to appeare before him and Councill and then and there produce all his accounts wch he accordingly did whereupon the said Governour and Councill without Audit or any Judiciall processe caused your Peticonr to be committed into the Custody of the Sheriffe of the Citty and County of New Yorke, where hee still remaines a prisnor to his great damage &c — And hee now being Informed that your Excellency hath orders to Inspect said matter from the Lords of the Treasury and make report to them of the same He humbly supplicates your Excellency that he him release from this his Confinemt being ready and willing at all times to attend any person or persons whom your Excellency shall nominate to Audit said accts of your Peticonr and whatsoever their said Lordshipps shall award in that matter he is ready to submitt to, This hee humbly offerrs to your Excellency's mature Consideracon in all humility and prays hee may be releas'd from his now Confininent and as in Duty bound shall ever pray &c. PR D:ILANOY Endorsed pr DeLanoy peticon debated in Council VOL. I. 27 4 18 ADMINISTR'ATION OF JARVIS MARSHALL'S AFFIDAVIT. Citty of N Yorke The examination of Jarvis Marshall taken before Abraham D'Peyster Sgt Major & William Merrett Brandt Schuyler & Isaac Van Fleck Esqrs four of their MajtS Justices of the Peace for the said Citty the twelfth day of May in the sixth year of the Reign of our Soveraign Lord & Lady William & Mary by the grace of God of England Scotland France & Ireland King & Queen Defenders of the Faith &c: & in the year of our Lord one thousand six hundred & ninety four: The Examinant being duly sworn upon the holy Evangelists & examined Saith yt last night att seaven or eight of the Clock or thereabouts he the Examint was in ye house of Edward Buckmaster of ye said Citty Inholder in Company with one John Windower of ye said Citty Goldsmith & severall others and that the sd John Windower did throw a piece of eight upon the Table & speaking to this Examinant did say there is your money or to yt effect, that he the examint did refuse to take itt & said that would not doe; upon weh the said John Windower threw down another Piece of eight & said there take itt that's enough & called for ye scales & said but Ile pay you for itt, & Immediately did lift up his hand & did strike ye said examint upon ye face upon which the said Edward Buckmaster being then High Constable & hearing a noise came into ye Room & Commanded the Peace; & the said Examint further saith that after the peace was Commanded the said John *Windower did say that Leisler & Milborne wer murdered which le would make appear & yt he would stand up for Jacobus Leisler while he had a drop of blood in his body and that their should be others hanged in a short time to Ballance the said Leisler & Milborne. Sworne Before us JAR'vI MARSHAUL A DI)PEYSTER BRANDT ScJYLER'Wl. MERRETT Is. VAN VLEOQ I EUT. GOV. L3EISLER. 419 C.AP JACOB MAURITZ HIS PETICON TO HIS EXCELLc & COUNCELL &c: To his Excellcy Richard Earle of Bellomont Cap' Genl' and Governor in Chief of his Majties Province of N: York &c And Vice Admirall of the Same &c And to the Honorable Councell &c The Humble Peticon of Jacob MaiJtz of the Citty of N: York MarrinerHUMBLEL SHEWETH That your Peticone' in the time of ye late happy Revolution in this provence was one of those that Joyned with Capn Leisler in the houlding ye ffort for King William & Queen,Mary and upon no other Acett after which and ye arrivall of Governor Sloughter your Peticonr was one of those that was bound over in recognizance in the Some of fifty polu:ds to answer att N: York Supreame Court in Octobr 1691. Yet notwithstanding her Most (racious Majtie Queen Mary of Blessed Memory Deceased was pleased by her Order in Councell bearing date ye 13th of May 1692 to Cleare all those that was soe bound over with all the proceedings thereupon, and Collo ffletcher had Effectuall orders Therefore. But so it is that whilst yor Peticonr' was in England his house & Estate was seized on in N: York Under Coller of Law & pretence of forfeiture of his sd Recognizance3 & his wife being then with Child was abused and Kept as a prisoner in her house by the Sherriff of sd Citty with six souldiers who forced in ye house of yor Petioer with their drawne Swords & rifled & plundered Iye house. And yor Petioer had Taken by force of his Estate & from Peter Jacob Moris, on yor Peticonrs accott to the Sume of two hundred & six pounds Eight Shills for which there is by Confess;on of the then Collector one hundred & sixty one pounds ten shiilmngs paed unto the publicq Treasury to Chidly Brooks, for which sume and his damage to be Repaid he did in Collo ffletcher's time Peticon, but his unaturallness against yor Peticonr was such that he could have no Redress &e And yor Peticonr besides sd same of money so taken from him had taken out of his Ship then at N: Yorke for ye Service of ye Garrison & Country Three 420 AD.MINISTRATION OF hundred wt of fine powder which amounted to ye sume of Seaventy five pounds for which he has as yett Recd no Satisfaction which with his other great Losses & Long & Tedious sickness & weakness hath reduced him to a very low Condition &c Therefore Humbly prays some order for his Satisfaction and that hee may bee Reimbursed sd Sumes so Taken from him. and Seing there is a Committee of the Generll Assembly now sitting for the adjusting y0 publicq accotts there mlay bee some good & Effectuall Care Taken for his Satisfaction & Commisserating his Losses & Condition,And yor Petitionr as in duty bound shall ever pray JACOB MAUJRITZ Endorsed At a Councell held at ffort William Henry the 10th day of May 1699 prsent his Ecellency Richard. Earle of Bellomont &c The petition of Jacob Mauritz Read and Referred to the Consideration of the house of Reprsentatives p order of Councell B COSEN C. Councilij To His Excellency Richard Earle of Bellomont Capt. Gen1I and Governour in Chiefe of his Majesties province of New Yorke and ye Territories depending thereon in America & Vice Admiral of ye same &c & to the Honble Concil The humble petition of Johannes Provoost Sheweth That in the year of our Lord 1691 the petitioner with severall other Inhabitants of New Yorke (who were active in the late happy Revolution) were committed to Goale & afterwards admitted to Baile they entring into Recognisance for their personal appearance att ye then next Supream Court of Judicature to be held for ye said Province to answer &c: That aftewards the Petitioner, Jacob Leisler, Jacob Mauris, and others went to England & in their absence ye sd Recognisances were sued forfeited & Levyed on ye Estate of ye Petitioner. LIEUTo GOV. LEISLER. 421 That the Petitioner and others under that circumstance (hearing thereof) made application unto her late Majesty Queen Mary of ever blessed memory that Restitution should be made yr Petitioner of the monies Levyed by vertue of the said Recognisance who was most Graciously pleased to Order in Council that Coll. Fletcher late Govemour of this Province on his arrivall in this Govermt should see the same performed. That on Coll. Fletchers arrival in New Yorke ye petitioner preferS a petition unto him & the Council praying that Restitution be made of the moneys Levied &c: pursuant to her Majesties Order in Council; who made an Order of Reference thereon to Abraham D:'Peyster Esqr then Mayor of the Citty of New Yorke to Examine the matter & make Reporte of what was Convenient to be done therein, who accordingly Reported that he was of Opinion that the said money should be Restored to the petitioner. That afterwards the petitioner made application unto Coll Fletcher that Restitution might be made &c: who answered itt was time of Warr that the King wanted money & that he must have patience. That the petitioner again made application that the said moneys might be Restored unto him who answered he had superseded all the proceedings upon ye said Recognisances (which was not soe) to the Great Grievance of ye Petitioner & others. That ye Sum Levied on ye Petitioner by vertue of ye said Recognisance (& Ordered by her Maj't in Council to be Restored) was one hundred eighty seaven pounds two shillings and nine pence of which was paid to his Majts Collector and Receiver Gen1l of this province the sum of one hundred and fourty pounds for which ye petitioner can produce his Receipt. The petitioner therefore most humbly prays that your Lordship & the Council will take ye premises into your prudent consideration & Order that Restitution be made unto ye petitioner of the said moneys Levyed on him by vertue of the said Recognisance in pursuance of her Majesties said Order in Council. And ye Petitioner as in duty bound shall Ever pray &c: JOmHAsNES PROVOOST. At a Councell held, at fiort Wm Henry this 1Oth day of May 1699 psent Nis Excellency IRichird Earle of Bellamoante 422 ADSMINISTRATION OF Tile petition of Johannes Provoost Read and. Referred to the Consideration of the House of Reprsentatives p order of Councell B. CoSEf'S C Concilij *TO THE KINGS MOST EXCELLENT MAJESTY The Humble Petition of Jacob Leisler, Son of Captain Jacob Leisler deceased late Commander in Chief of Your Majesty's Province of New York in America SHOWETIT, that upon the late happy revolution Your Petitioners said Father was very Instrumental in Securing the said Province for your Majesty & being of Known integrity to your Majesties interest & the protestant religion, Captain Francis Nicholson then deputy Govenor having withdrawn himself from the said Province Your Petitrs said father upon the 16th August 1689 was by the freeholders & inhabitants, elected & Constituted Commander in Chief untill Your Majesties Royal Pleasure should be declared concerning the province & Accordingly he entered upon the government & was Acknowledged for such by the People, & was in possession of the fort & Garrison which till that time were ruinate & incapabel of defence, & did proclaim Your Majesty & Your Royal Consort, to be our Sovereign Lord & Lady & caused the same to be done, in other provinces that on the 10th of xber 1689 Your Majesty's Most gracious letter, dated the 30th July before, arrived there the same being directed to the said Captain Nicholson & in his absence, to such for the time being, take care for preserving the peace & administring the Laws within the said Province whereby Your Majesties was graciously pleased. to Authorize the person then commanding in Chief As Aforesaid, to take upon him the government. calling to his Assistance in the Administration thereof the principal Inhabitants or as many as he should think fit, willing & requiring him to do & perform all things whch to the place of Lieut, Govenor and Commander in Chief did Appertain as he should find necessary for Your Majesties Service & the good of the said Subjects until further orders from Your Majesty that Your Petitioner' Said. Father, being so co.n LIEUT, GOVo EILELRm 423 firmed in his said government by Your Majestys said Royal letter did faithfully observe Your Majestys Command thereby declared, & did in all respects provide for the security of the said Province as well Against All Attempts of the french (who are very powerfull in those parts) as papists & other disaffected persons of which there were many resident in the said province, that upon the 28th January last past Captain Richard Ingoldesby arrived at New York with some Soldiers from England to whom Your Petitioners Said father offered all sorts of accommodations but the said Ingoldesby required the possession of the said fort & Government for which Your Petitioners Father desired to see his orders, being ready to Obey the same if he had any Such from your Majesties or Colonel Sloughter who your Majesties had been pleased to make Govenor, but the said Ingoldesby, had no such Orders or would not produce the same, whereupon your petitioners Said father having advised with the principal inhabitants was councelled & directed by them to Keep & Maintain the possession of the said fort & government (in regard the Ingoldesby would not Shew his orders to receive the same) until the Govenor arrived or your Majesty's further pleasure was known That Ingoldesby thereupon joining himself to papists & other disaffected persons did by many indirect means to the great terror of Your Majesties liege Subjects in a hostile & dreadful Manner assemble great numbers of french & other persons & beseiged the said fort Divers batteries Against the same & so continued in Arms about Six Weeks, that on the 19th March last Colonel Sloughter did Arrive & as soon as Your Petitioners father had certain Knowledge thereof which was not till 11 oClock that night he did Send the Mayor of the City & My Milborne his Secretary from the said fort to Wait Upon him & to offer him the possession thereof but the said Col. Sloughter without hearing them Speak. committed them Close prisoners, who not returning as Your Petitioners father Expected he did very early the next Morning write to the said Colo Sloughter desiring him to Come & receive the fort, & according he came & took possession thereof upon the 20th March but presently After caused the soldiers & inhabitants in the fort & City to be disarmed & Contrary to all law & Justice committed Your Petitioner & Your 424 ADMnINIISTRATION OF Petitioners said Father & 26 other persons to Prison pretending they were guilty of high treasson Against Your Majesty for keeping the said fort as aforesaid, & the said Colonel Sloughter & Ingoldesby, confiderating with divers disaffected persons to Your Majesties to put Your Petitioners Said father & others to Death, did in a most arbitrary & illegal manner cause him & seven others tryed Judged & condemned to Death for some pretended high Treason & have since most barbarously caused Your Petitioner's father & Your Petitioner's Brother in law, the said Milborne to be hanged & Afterwards Butchered, the said other Six persons (if not since put to death) remaining in prison under the same unjust sentence of condemnation & have Seized the Estates & goods and also most unjustly prosecuted Your Petitioner & many others of Your Majesty's good Subjects confiscating their estates, who for the preservation of their lives have been forced to leave the said Province, by which cruel & Barbarous practices great numbers of Your Majesty's Subjects are in danger of their utter ruin, & the Said Country is like to be depopulated & made desolate, the said colonel Sloughter being dead & the said captain Ingoldesby since his death commanding in Chief in the Said Province who doth continue to exercise great violence & barbarity Against Your Majesty's said loyal SubjectsYour Petitioner therefore implore Your Most Sacred Majesty to take the premises into Your princely consideration & to give such orders therein as well for the preservation of the Six condemned persons & the relief of Your Petitioner & other Poor Sufferers, as also for the preservation & future good. Establishment of the said Province, as to Your Royal goodness & wisdom Shall seem meet And:Your petitioner as in duty bound Shall ever pray &c Q7C9, W 66c 2~a/Ihex z/iceed 7 /7, A/ afttle i A to ikl?I4a/l. di JtaBram,,o jLUij/pCn:, /-/ C.o.']-nf'....ru~ej. ~c}iai/ 426 ADMINISTRAT'ION OF Sia, — cannot but admire to hear that some (Gentlemen still have a good Opinion of the Late Disorders committed by Captain Jacob Leisler & his Accomplices, in New York, as if they had been for his Majesties Service & the Security of that Province; & that such monstrous falsehoods do find Credit, That the person before in Commission, & did labour to oppose & prevent those disorders were Jacobites, or persons ill affected to the happy revolution in England, But it has been often the Calamity of all Ages [to] Palliate Vice with false Glosses, & to criminate the best Actions of the most virtuous & most pious men-So that the truth & Inncency, without some defence, has not proved at all times a Sufficient Bullwark against malitious falsehoods & Calumnies, wherefore I shall endeavor to give you a true & brief Account, of that matter, As I myself have been a personal Witness to most of themIt was about the Beginning of April 1689. when the first Reports arrived at New York, that the Prince of Orange, now his present majesty was arrived in England, with a considerable Force & that the late King James was fled into France & that it was expected war would be soon proclaimed between England & FranceThe Lieut Govenor, Francis Jicholson & the Council being Protestants, resolved thereupon to Suspend all Roman Catholicks from Command & Places of Trust in the government & accordingly suspended Major Baxter from being a member of Council & Captain of a Company at Albany & Bartholomew Russell from being Ensign in the fort at New York, they both being Papists, who forthwith left their command & departed the province-& because but three members of the Councill were residing in New York viz, Mr Frederick Phillips Colonel Stephanus Cor/landt & Coll JNicholas Bayard all of Dutch birth, all Members, & the two last for near thirty years past, Elders & Deacons of the Dutch Protestant Church in New York & Most Affectionate to the Royall House of Orange -It was resolved by the said Lieut Govenor & Council, to Call & Conveen to their Assistance all the Justices of the peace, & other Civil Magistrates & the Commission Officers in the Province for to consult & advise with them what mright be Proper for the preservation of the peace & the safety of the Said LIEUT. GOV LEILSEIEo 427 Province [at ] that Conjuncture till orders should arrive from England. Whereupon the Said Justices Magistrates, & officers were Accordingly convened, & Stiled by the name of the General Convention for the Province of JXewYork; & all matters of Government were carried on & managed by the Major vote of that CONVENTION And in the first Place it was by them Agreed. & ordered forthwith to fortify the City of New YorkAnd that for the better security of the fort (since the garrison was weak & to prevent all manner of Doubt & Jealousies) a competant number of the City Militia, should keep guard in the fort. & JXicholas Bayard Col1 of Said Militia recommended to give Suitable Orders Accordingly - And that the Revenue should be continued & received by some Gentleman Appointed by that Convention for repairing the fort & Fortifying of the City. but against this order Capt Leisler, who as a Captain was a member of that CONVENTION, did enter his dissent with some few othersIt was also recommended to said Colol Bayard to hasten to fortify the City with all Possible Speed, who upon the credit of the revenue did Advance what money was needful for materials, & by the assistance of the Militia Officers, & dayly Labour of the Inhabitants, had the same finished before -the End of May, Excepting Captain Leisler's Quota About the Middle of May the Ship Beaver John Corbett Masters being ready to Sail for England, the Lieut Govenor & Council sent in her Mr John Riggs, & in Several other Ships, that soon followed, letters to the Earl now Duke of Shrewsbury then principal Secretary of State & to the Lords of the Committee for trade & Plantations, wherein they Signified their rejoicing at the News of his Royal Highness The Prince of Orange, now his present Majesties arrival in England, in order to redress the grievences of the Nation, & giving a particular account of the State of Affairs of this Province, & that they would endeavour to preserve its peace & Security till orders, Should arrive from England, which they humbly prayed might be hastened with all possible Speed Which Said Letters were most graciously received & answered by his Majesty' Letter bearing date 30h July 1689 428 3ADMINISTRA'ION OF' But against expectation it soon happened, that on the Last day of Said Month of May, Captain Leisler having a Vessell with some Wines on the road, for which he refused to pay the Duty, did in a Seditious Manner Stir up the meanest Sort of the Inhabitants (affirming that King James being fled the Kingdom all manner of Government was fallen in this Province) to Rise in Arms, & forceably possesses Themselves of the fort & Stores which Accordingly was effected whilst the Lieut Govenor & Council with the Convention were met at the City Hall to Consult what Might be proper for the Cormmion Good & Safety, where a Party of Armed men, came from the fort & forced the Lieut Govenor to deliver them the Keys & Seized also in his Chamber a Chest, with Seven hundred 4 Seventy three pounds twelve Shillings in money of the Government, & though Colo Bayard, with some others appointed by the convention used all endeavours to prevent Those disorders, all provided vain (for most of Those that appeared in arms were drunk & Cry'd out, They disowned all manner of Government,) whereupon by Captain Leisler's persuation, they proclaimed him to be their Commander there being then, no other Commission officer amongst ThemCaptain Leisler being in this manner possest of the fort, took some persons to his assistance, which he called the Committee of Safety, & the Lieut Govenor, Francis Nicholson being in this manner forced out of the Province About a week after reports came from Boston, that their Royal Highness the Prince & Princess of Orange were proclaimed King & Queen of England, Whereupon the Council & convention were very desirous to get that Proclamation, & not only wrote for it, but some of them hearing, that two gentlemen were comming from, Connecticut with a Copy of said proclamation, went out two days, to meet them in Expectation of having the Happiness to proclaim it, But, Major Gold c J11r Fitz Missing them, having put the proclamation into Captain Leislers hands, he, without taking any notice of the Council or convention did proclaim the same, though very disorderly after which he went, with his accomplices into the fort, & the Gentlemen of the Council Magistrates & most of the principal inhabitants, & Merchants went to Col Bayardis House & Drank the health & Prosperity of King Tnz & Queen oMary-with great expressions of Joy LIEUT GOVT LEISLERo 429 Two Days after a Printed Proclamation was procured by some of the Council dated the 14 Feby 1688, whereby their Majesties confirmed all Sheriffs, Justices of the Peace Collectors, & receivers of the revenue &c-being protestants which was forthwith Published at the City Hall by the Mayor & Alderman, accompanied with the Council & most of the Chief Citizens & merchants-& Pursuant there unto Matt Plowman Being a Papist was forthwith Suspended by the Convention & Colonel Bayard Alderman Paul Richards Captain, Thomas Winham Lieut John Haynes merchants, were by them commissioned & appointed to Collect the Revenue until orders Should arrive from England, whereupon those gentlemen were Sworn by Coll Cortlandt, then Mayor of the City they being the first in this province that took the oaths to their Majesties Appointed, by act of Parlament, instead of their Oaths of Allegiance & Supreamacy.But as soon as Those gentlemen Entered upon the Office Captain Leisler with a Party of Men in Arms, & Drink fell upon them at the Custom House, & with naked Swords beat them thence, endeavering to Massecre some of them, which were rescued by Providence, whereupon Said Leisler, beat an Alarm, crying about the City Treason & made a Strict search to Seize Colt Bayard who made his Escape & departed for Albany where he Staid all summer in hopes that orders might come from England to settle Those DisordersThe said Captain Leisler finding almost every Man of Sence, Reputation or Estate in the place to oppose & discourage his irregularities, caused frequent false Alarms to be Made, & Sent Several Parties of his armed Men out of the Fort, Dragvd into Nasty goals, within said Fort, Several, of the Principal Magistrates officers, & Gentlemen & others, that would not own his Power to be Lawfull, which he Kept in close Prison during will & Pleasure, without any Process or allowing them to Bail, & he further Published Several times, by beat of Drums That all Those who would not come into the Fort Sign Their hands, & So thereby to own his Power to be Lawfull Should be deemed ~ Esteemed as enemies to his Majesties y the Country, 6 be by him treated JAccordingly, By which Means many of the Inhabitants, thol they abhorrd his Actions only to Escape a Nasty Joal, & 430 ADMINISTRATION OF to Secure their Estates, were by fear & Compulsion drove to Comply, Submit & Sign to whatever he commandedAnd Tho Captain Leisler had at first so violently opposed the Collecting of the Revenue, Alleging it unlawful, as soon as his Wines were landed, & that he got in some Power, he forthwith set up for himself the collecting of the said Revenue by Peter D Lanoy allowing him a great sallary & all the perquisites of that officeUpon the 10 of December following Returned the said A7f John Riggs from England with Letters from his Majesty, & the Lords in answer to the letters sent by the Lieut Govenor & Council above recited, Directed to our Trusty 8 well beloved Francis JVicholson Esqr our Lieut govenor 4' commander in chief of our Province of Jew York, in America 7 in his absence to such as for the time, being. take care for the preservation of the peace, & administring the Laws in our said Province whereby his Majesty Approved of the proceedings, & care that had been taken by said Lieut Govenor, & Council for the peace & Safety of the Province, with Further Powers, & directions to Continue therein till further orders, which Said letters the said Mr Riggs designed to deliver on the following morning to the gentlemen of the Council to whom they properly did belong being an answer to their Said letter, but was Obstructed therein by Said Leisler, who sent a party of his men in Arms & brought said Riggs, to the fort where he forced said Letters from him though some gentlemen of the Council that went the same time to the Fort. Protested against it, but he drove them out of the Fort, calling them Rogues, Papist, & other approbious names Soon after the receipt of said letters, said Captain Leisler Stiled himself Lieut Govenor Appointed A Council-& presumeth to Call a Select number of his own Party, who called themselves the G eneral Assembly of the province & by their advice & assistance raised Several Taxes, & great sums of money from thei Majesties good subjects within this province which Taxes together with that Y~773.12, in money which he had Seized from the government, & the whole revenue he apply'd to his own use, & to maintain said Disorders allowing his private men 18d pr Day, & to others proportionally. On the 20th of January following Coll Bayard & Mr Nicholls, LIEUT. GOV. LEISLERe 431 had the I11 fortune to fall into his hands, & were in a Barbarous manner By a party in Arms, Dragg'd into the fort, & there Put into a Nasty place, without any manner of process or being allowed to Bail, though the same was offered for Said Coll Bayard by some of the Ablest & Richest Inhabitants to the sum of Twenty thousand Pounds, either for his Appearance to Answer, or depart the province, or to go for England, but without any cause given. or reason assigned, Laid Said Coll Bayard in Irons & Kept him & Mr Nicolls close prisoners for the space of 14 months, were they with Severall others, that had been long detained Prisoners were set at Liberty by Govenor Sloughter. And whilst he kept those gentlemen in Prison, he quartered his Armed men in their houses, were they committed all manner of Outrages, & to give one instance of many others a Party of twelve men were quartered at the house of Colo Bayard with directions to Pillage & Plunder at discretion, which was bought off with money & Plentifull entertainment, But the same day when the party had received their money, another Party came in with naked Swords, Opened several Chambers & Chests in said house, & did rob & carry away what money & other goods they found, at the same time Coll Bayard & Mr Nicolls were taken, Strict Search was made for Colonel Cortlandt but he with severall Other Gentlemen having made their Escape, were forced to leave their families & concerns, & remain in exile till relieved by the arrivall of Colonel Slaughter It is hardly to be exprest what cruelties Captain Leisler & his accomplices, imposed upon the said prisoners & all others that would not own his power to be Lawful, Neither could the Protestant Ministers in the province Escape their Malice & cruelty's; for Jfr Selyns Minister of New York, was most grostly abused by Leisler himself in the Church at the time of Divine Service, & threatened to be silenced &c —Mr Dellius Minister at Allbany to Escape a Nasty Joal was forced to leave his flock & fly for Shelter into New England Mr Vai ck Minister of the Dutch Towns on JVessaw Island, was by Armed Men dragsd out of his house to the fort then imprisoned without Bailfor Speaking (as was pretended) t7ieasonable uords Jigainst Captain Lisler & thefort, then prose 432 AD5MINISTRATION OF cuted & decreed by Peter D Lanoy pretended Judge without any commission or Authority —to be deprived from his 3inisterial Function Jimerced in a fine of ~80=4- to remain in close p'isMo till thatfine should be paid. Yea he was so tormented, that in all likelyhood it Occasioned & hastened the death of that Most reverend & religious Man The French Minister Mr Perret & Mr Dellie had some better Quarters, but were often threatened, to be prosecuted in like manner because they would not approve of his power & disorderly proceedingsNone in the province but these of faction, had any Safety in their Estates for Said Captain Leisler at will & Pleasure Sent to those who disapproved of his actions to furnish him with Money, Provision & what Else he wanted & upon Denial, Sent Armed Men out of the fort & forcially broke open Several Houses Shops, Cellars, Vessels & other places where they expected to be Supplysl & without any the least Payment, or Satisfaction carried their plunder to the fort, all which was extremely approved of by these poor fellows which he had About him, & was forced to feed & Maintain & he Stiled those his robberies, with the giled name & Pretence, that it was for their Majesties King William & Queen Mary Special Service, though it was After found out, that whole Cargoes of those Stolen goods sold to his friends in this city, & Shipt off for the West Indias & Elsewhere In this Manner he the said Leisler with his Accomplices, did force pillage, rob & Steal from their Majesties good Subjects within this province, almost to their utter ruin vast Sums of money, & other Effects, the Estimation of the Damages done only within the City of JVew York Amounting as by Account May appear to The sum of Thirteen Thousand Jin e Hundred O' fifty Jine Pounds besides the Rapins, Spoils & Violences done at Col Willets on Sassaw Island, & to many others in several Parts of the province, & thus You may see how he used & Exercised an Exorbitant Arbitrary, & unlawfull power, over the persons & Estates of his Majesties good Subjects here, Against the Known & fundamental laws of the Land, & in Subvertion of the same to the great Oppression of his Majesties Subjects, & to the apparent decay of Trade & Commerce LIEUT, GOVo LEISLR, 433 In this Calamity, Misery & Confution was this province by those disorders entrawled, near the Space of two Years until the Arrival of his Majesties Forces under the Command of Major Ingoldesby who with Several Gentlemen of the Council arrived about the last day of January 1690-1 which said Gentlemen of the Council for the preservation of the peace, sent & offered to said Leisler that he might Stay, & continue his command in the fort, only desiring for themselves & the' Kings forces quietly to quarter & refresh themselves in the City till Govenor Sloughter Should arrive, but the said Leisler instead of complying, asked Mr Brooke one of his Majesties Council, who were appointed of the Council in this Province & Mr Brooke having named Mr Phillips, Colo Cortlandt & Col Bayard, he fell into a passion & Cry'd What! those Papist Dogs Rogues, Sacrament-if the King should send three thousand Such 1 would cut them all off ey without any cause given, he proclaimed open war against them Whereupon they for Self preservation, protection of the Kings forces & Stores & the Safety of the City, were Necessitated to persuade to their assistance, Several of their Majesties good Subjects, then in Opposition against the said Leisler. with no other Intent as they Signified to him by Several Letters & Messages, but only for Self Security & defence: Yet notwithstanding the said Leisler proceeds to make war against them & the Kings forces, & fired a vast number of great & Small Shot in the City whereof Several of his Majesties Subjects were Killed & wounded as they passed in the Streets upon their Lawful Occasions, tho no Opposition were made on the other Side At this height of extremity was it when Govenor Slaughter arrived on the 19th of March 1691, who having published his commission from the City hall with great Signs of Joy. By firing all the Artillery within & round the City sent thrice to demand the surrender of the fort from Captain Leisler & his Accomplices, which was thrice Denied, but upon great Threatnings the following day surrendered to Govenor Sloughter who forthwith caused the said Capt Leisler with some of the Chief Malefactors to be bound over to answer thereat, the next Supreme Court of Judicature, where the said Leisler & his pretended Secretary Milborne did appear, but refused to plead to the Indictment of the grand Jury, 3VOL. HI. 28 434 ADLINISTRATION OF or to own the Jurisdiction of that Court & So After Several hearings as Mutes, were found guilty of High Treason & Murder & executed Accordingly-Several of the other Malefactors that pleaded were also found Guilty & Particularly one Jbraham Governeer for Murdering of an Old Man peaceably passing along the Street, but were repreived by Coll. Slaughter, & upon Coll Flitcher's Arrival by him Set at Liberty, upon their Submission & promise of Good behaviourSir, At what is here Set down is true & can be proved & Justified by the Men of greatest probity & best figure amongst us, If I were to give a particular narrative of all the cruelties & Robberies perpetrated Upon their Majesties most affectionate Subjects in this province. they would fill a Volumn, there were no need of a revolution here, they were all well Known & the Strictest Protestants. & Men of best figure. Reputation & Estate were at the Helm, it may plainly be perceived by the Several Steps & Measures were followed at that time, & by their letters to the, then Earl now Duke Shrewsbury. & to the Lords & the Kings Answer thereunto, the Copy of which Answer, & Some other papers worthy of your Perusal are inclosedAs soon as Govenour Sloughter arrived an Assembly was called which upon the 18 April 1691-did present an address to his Excellency, Signed by the Speaker, together with the resolves of that house which when you are pleased to read gives the conclusive Opinion & Judgment of the General Assembly of this Province of all those disorderly proceedings. for which those two have suffered Death & their sentence was since approved by their Majesty of Ever blessed Memory in Council Many worthy Protestants in England, & other parts of the world. being Sincerely devoted to interest have yet notwithsanding (unacquainted circumstances & not duly apprised of them, have been more easily induced to give Credit to the false Calumnies of Byassed & Disaffected persons in this province. but in my Oppinion most of those that have come hither so prepossessed -After so here have been Thorowly convinced of the & that those men who Suffered death, LIEUT. GOV. LEISLER. 435 did Zeal for their Majesties interest & the Protestant Religion, but being of Disperate fortune, trust themselves into power of Purpose to Make up their Wants by the ruin & Plunder of his Majesties Loyal Subjects, & were so far ingaged in their repeated Crimes, that they were driven to that height of Desperation, had not the providence of Almighty God prevented it, the whole Province had been ruined & destroyedI have put this in writing at your request, to Assist your memory & leave it to his Excellency Coil Fletcher & your own Observations, to enlarge upon the Charracters of those Persons, who have been the greatest Sufferers, in the time of those Disorders, & of their Patience & Moderation, Since Your Arrival also of the disaffected, & the Causes which you have frequently observed to hold this province in Disquiet & Trouble, notwithstanding all which, & the frequent Attacks of the French & Indians Upon our Frontiers, this province have not lost one foot of ground during the War, but have had considerable Advantage upon the Enemy, which Under God is due to the Prudent & Steady conduct & great Care & diligence of Coll. Fletcher our Present Govenoran eye Witness & have had time through to enable You to inform others Which if You please to do, I doubt not credit & be an extraordinary piece of to this province I am Your Most Humble Servant. New York, Deer 31. 1697 %* The above Pamphlet is printed from a MS. copy loaned by the N. Y. Hist, Soc., the text of which is carefully followed. AN ACT FOR REVERSING THE ATTAINDER OF JACOB LEISLER AND OTHERS. [6-7 Will. III. Anno 1695] WHEREAS in the late happy revolution, the inhabitants of the province of New-York, in America, did in their general assembly, constitute and appoint captain Jacob Leisler to be commander-inchief of the said province, until their majesties pleasure should be known therein. And the said Jacob Leisler was afterwards con 436 ADMINISTRATION OF firmed in the said command by his Majesty's letter, dated the thirtieth day of July, one thousand six hundred and eighty-nine; and the said Jacob Leisler having the administration of the said government of New-York, by virtue of the said power and authority so given and confirmed to him as aforesaid, and being in the exercise thereof, captain Richard Ingoldesby arriving in the said province, in the month of January, Anno Domini one thousand six hundred and ninety, did without producing any legall authority, demand of the said Jacob Leisler the possession of the fort at New York; but the said Jacob Leisler, pursuant to the trust in him reposed, refusing to surrender the said fort into the hands of the said Richard Ingoldesby, kept the possession thereof until the month of March then next following, at which time colonel Henry Sloughter being constituted captain-general and governor-in-chief of the Sd province,arrivedthere in the evening, and the said Jacob Leisler having notice thereof, that same night (though very late) took care to deliver the said fort to his order, which was done very early the next morning. And whereas the said Jacob Leisler, also Jacob Milboumre, Abraham Governeur, and several others were arraigned in the Supreme Court of Judicature at New-York aforesaid, and convicted and attainted of high treason and felony, for not delivering the possession of the said fort to the said Richard Ingoldesby, and the said Jacob Leisler and Jacob Milborne were executed for the same. May it therefore please your most excellent majesty at the humble petition and request of Jacob Leisler, the son and heir,of the said Jacob Leisler, deceased, Jacob Milborne, the son and heir of the said Jacob Milborne, deceased, and of the said Abraham Governeur, that it be declared and enacted, And be it enacted, by the king's most excellent majesty, by and with the advice and consent of the lords spiritual and temporal and commons in this present parliament assembled, and by the authority of the same, that the said several convictions, judgments and attainders of the said Jacob Leisler, deceased, Jacob Milborne, deceased, and the said Abraham Governeur, and every of themn be and are repealed, reversed, made and declared null and v-oid to all intents, constructions and purposes whatsoever, as if no such LIJEUT GOV. LEISLER. 427 convictions, judgments, or attainders, had ever been had or given.; and that no corruption of blood, or other penalties, or forfeitures of goods, chattels, lands, tenements, hereditaments, be by the said convictions and attainders, or either of them, incurred, any law usage or custom to the contrary notwithstanding. "One agent of Massachusetts framed the Bill, while the other sat as Chairman of the Committee, which reported it," CHALMERSO DR INCREASE MATHER TO GOV. DUDLEY. [1 Hist. Coll, Mass. ii,] Boston Jany 20. 6 I am afraid that the guilt of innocent blood is still crying in the ears of the Lord against you. I mean the blood of Leisler and Milburn. My Lord Bellamont said to me, that he was one of the committee of Parliament who examined the matter; and that those men were not only murdered, but barbarously murdered. However the murdered men have been cleared by the King, Lords, and Commons. It is out of my province to be a judge in things of this nature. Nevertheless, considering what the proper judges, who have had an impartial hearing of the case, have said, and what the gentlemen who drew up a bill for taking off the attainder from those poor men5 have written to me about it, I think you ought, for your family's sake, as well as your own5 to lay that matter to heart, and consider whether you ought not to pray as Psalms, i. 1.4." To his Excellency Richard Earle of Bellomont Capn Gen1l Gover in Chief & Vice Admirall of his Maties Province of New York &c. The humble Petition of Mary Milborne the Widdow of Jacob Milborne Deceased — Humbly Sheweth-That yor Petition"' husband was in the time of the late happy Revolution appointed Secretary of this Province untill his Maties Pleasure should be known therein & Whereas some time after the arrivall of Major Ingoldesby yor Petitionrs husbands 438 ADMINISTRATION OF LIEUT. GOV. LEISLER. howse was plundered, hee only saving his books of accompts & other Papers in his Maties ffort, but when the Fort was delivered to Col. Sloughter & yor Petitionrs husband Imprisoned the same were denyed unto him & since his death unto yor Petitioner, which said bookes & Papers are supposed to bee in Custody of Mr Matthew Clarkson Secretary of this Province the detention whereof is, hath been & may farther be to yor Petitionrs grievous damage. Yor Petitionr therefore humbly prays yor Excellency that some enquiry may bee made for Said Books & Papers, to the end they may bee delivered to yor Petitionr, the attainder of yor Petitionrs said husband being by an Act of Parliament made in the 6th & 7th year of his Maties Reign reversed. And yor Petitionr as in Duty bound shall ever pray:MARY MILBORNE. New York this 14th June 1698. By his Excellency &c. Ordd That Mr Mathew Clerkson appear this day before myself & Counsell to answer ye allegations of ye above petition. Giuen under my hand this 16 June 1698. BELLOMONT. RATE LISTS of tnug 1 Ian b4 1675, 1676 $z: 1683. RATE LISTS OF' LONG ISLAND. 441 THE LIST OF EAST HAMPTON AUGUST YE 24T: 16T75 ~ d Jeremiah Conchling.... e...... 1 e 93 —10-0 Stephen Hodges...,.e............ 243-10 Joshua garlich sen: e.e e.. o.... e.. 104-13-4 Tho: Hand..... e............e. e e. o 097- 3-4 Wm: Mulford, e............,....e 164- 3-4 Tho: Edwards........ e e. e e e. 091- 3-4 M.r Tho Chatfeild, e.e.... e,.. 6 e, 238-16-8 Tho: Osborne sen.............,....E 166-10 John Corte...........e...e e. e e 100 —10 Wm Miller..e..,. a e.......... e e o090 —13 —4 John Hoping..,. e......... e.. 169-00 Robert Daiton.e e..... e....,.....e.0205-00 Philip Leckie.................. 043- 6-8 Hand. e o...................... e e o 11 —- 0 Joshua garlich Ju:.............. 056- 0 Rich: Shaws....e.. e,....,. e.... 146-13-4 Rich: Brooke,................... 142- 6-8 Wml fithian.....e.e.e........e e 180 —- 3 —4 Samuel Parsons...... e e,,,..e, e e 085- 0 Arthur Croasy...........,..... 048- 0 Tho: Osborne Ju:..... e..... e e. e.e 175 — 0 John Parsonso.......... o e.. e e....o 126- 0 Abraham Hauke-,.,............ o 033 —-10 John Miller, e........... o e.. e.... c o.. 103- 0 James Bird.,..................... o.., 028- 0 John Theller,,..,.,,,,, o.,,,,, 173- 3 —4 Benjamin Osborne.................... 067- 0 e... 0 O...e 138 0 [A'M destroyed.]...... e. e e,... 223- 0..D..oo..O O.O. O. o.. 146 — 6 —8..e e.e e.e o..... e e.. e. 318- 0 John Richeson,.,,...... o o... 027-10 Capt. Tho Talmag..............e.... 255-10 John Stretton Sen:,., c,. o.... 0 291 06 8 John Stretton Jun:...e,,.. e e o o.. 090 00 Misses Codnon......0.... o o.. 05 00 442 RATE LISTS OF ~ s d Reneck garison.,....................042 00 Nath: Bushop....................... 177 3 4 James Hand.........,.....,........ 058 10 James Loper....................... 076 00 Samuel Mulford,....,......,........ 083 00 Joseph Osborne.......,.............. 044 00 Richard Stretton.................... 264 13 4 Tho diment,,....,, e,. e..,,,.,.. 225 00 Ebeneser Leek......................034 00 Natha. dorrony...................... 091 00 Samuel Brooke.....,.........,.. 066 6 8 Wm Perkins........ e.......... 230 0 John Miller Junior.................. 030 0 John Osborne......................, 196 13 4 Enoch fithian.......,................ 067 00 Benia: Conckling.................... 103 00 John feild......... e e,............040 00 Joanah Hodges.....................045 00 Tho: dimont Jun:................. 030 00 Tho: Chatfield,.. e..,.............. 018 00 Edward............... s 018 00 The totall Summe......... 6842 16 8 Oyster Bay the 27th Augt 16 Sa-Your Warrant wee haue receued, dated ye 7th Augt fo sending in to ye Office ye Sum of our Townes Estate ye wee haue dun & ye Estate of our Townes is 4900~. now by this bearrer Mr Shakerly. not Elce to acquaint your Woi wth but desiering your welfare I rest yours to Comand12 NATHANIELL CoI 4900)408-4 20-8-4 Endorsed To ye Worshipl Matthias Nichols Mayor these prsents In New Yorke A LIST OF YE: ESTATE OF YE TOWNE OF HUNTINGTON FOR THE YEARE 1675. 0 m C -- 0 i —M 0 ~m q > co c Capt Fleet. " -....... o. o. o e 01 00 00 00 00 01 02 02 02 0 00 08 40 21 Tho: Fleet Junr................... 0.00 0 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 Steph Jarvis..................... 00 02 01 00 02 03 03 01 01 00 05 055 16 Robt Cranfeild...................... 01 00 00 01 04 02 02 02 04 00 00 00 18 Tho: Scudder.................,....O04 0 3 01 00 06 04 05 05 05 06 28 00 28 Isaak Scudder....................... 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 0 0 00 00 Jno Scudder........................ 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 Ja: Chichister Sen..................... 02 00 00 01 06 04 01 02 04 12 03 00 27 Ja: Chichister Junr.................. 02 02 1 00 01 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 Nath1l Foster...................... 02 02 00 00 04 02 01 04 02 00 05 00 19 Jno Finch Senr.............. e...... 03 00 00 01 02 02 02 00 02 00 05 05 26 Jno Finch Junr....................... 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 0 00 00 00 00 00 Joseph Baily.........,..,,........ 02 00 02 00 00 04 02 03 02 02 05 00 25 Tho: Whitson....................... 02 00 00 00 00 03 02 02 02 03 01 00 20 Jno Weekes.................... 03 00 00 01 04 05 01 03 00 08 09 00 18 Mr Jonas Wood Senr.............. 04 00 00 02 06 07 04 04 03 17 10 00 48 Jno Wood....................... 00 00 00 00 00 0 00 00 00 00 00 00 Isaak Platt........................ 01 00 00 00 05 06 06 02 04 10 19 00 25 Tho: Powers....., O 02 1 0 10 1 00 05 09 0 04 05 06 09 00 30.~~~~~~~~~~~~.,e,* eeeo,e*eee02 OO 5014t4 0 A LIST &c. —(CONTINUED.) I:, I I I I Caleb Wood.-..-.-|04 00 00....0005 03 04 01 3 02 00 00' 08 Joseph||.~,||,,| || 1 1,1,|ood, | HI.IHI ~ ~~ ~, ~.. _ _ _., ___ ^ * |, ~,,ll,,. r.llllllll..ll||. |.,||| |,..|..|...... Joseph Wood...... | 02 01 00 00 00 01 01 02 00 00 00 00 07 SamllWood...................1 02 00 00 1 00 06 05 02 0 02 06 16 00 24 Jno Green... 01 00 00I 00 00 01 07 00 00 00 01 00 12 Tho Weekes....... 02 00 00 01 04 04 02 0 01 07 06 00 28 Jno Carye............ 00 00 00 00 i 02 1 03 00 02 01 06 06 00 12 Epen Platt....03 00 00 ~ ~ 02 03 03 04 04 07 20 00 39 Walter Nokes.........., 0 00 01 00 01 00 1002 10 08 Richd Brush................. 01 00 00 00 02 03 00 00 04 02 05 00 6 16 Jonas Wood Junr.................. 01 00 00 00 3 04 05 00 02 02 06 09 00 20 Joseph Whitman.......... 01 00 00 01 04 06 02 01 00 13 16 00 27 Thomas Brush........ 03 00 00 i 01 06 06 01 04 02 22 17 00 36 Jno Brush.......... 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 Abigail Titus................. 02 00 00 00 02 04 03 02 03 04 07 00 18 1 04 Sam11 Ketbchman..... 03 00 00 00 04 04 04 04 00 05 15 00 16 Rich: Williams.......... 00 00 00 00 00 06 00 06 01 00 10 00 11 Sam11 Titus.............020. 00. 01 04 05 00 02 02 0 0303 00 o 34 JothaScudder.................... 00 00 00 00 00 1 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 David Scudder................ 00 o00 oo 00 00 000 00 100 o00 00 00o 00 ThoWeees...................02 00 0 01j4 4 2 1 1 7 6 0 8 Moses Scudder....................... 0 i 00 0 00 00 00 0000 0 0 000 0 00 John Tedd.......................... 01 01 00 01 02 01 02 00 02 00 04 00 16 Tomo Conklyn..........,. e003 00 00 00 02 04 03 00 01 06 11 00 18 Saiml Messenger.. oo. e..e....... 01 00 00 00 02 02 00 02 01 00 00 00 12 Jno Samwayes.,..,....... 02 00 00 00 04 02 04 01 04 07 05 00 18 The Land of 00 00 00 00 0 0 00 Jacob Walker........ Henry Sooper....................... 01 00 01 00 02 03 01 02 02 14 00 00 14 Jona: Rogers....................... 03 03 00 00 07 04 03 05 02 40 20 00 45 George Baldwin................... 01 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 01 00 00 Edwd Bunce.......................... 01 00 00 00 04 06 02 02 00 08 00 18 John Page....................... 00 00 00 00 02 00 00 01 00 00 00 09 Tho:Martin........................ 01 00 00 00 00 02 00 00 02 00 02 00 09 Jno Inkerson...................... 02 00 00 00 04 06 00 04 1 02 00 08 00 16 Adam Whithead.....,............ 0 00 00 00.. 00 00 0000 00 00 00 2 0000 Tho: Scidmore Sen................... 02 00 00 00 04 07 0 00 02 00 02 00 21 Tho: Scidmore Junr.............. 00 00 00 00 0 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 Philip Udale............... 00...00 00 03 00 0001 00 01 00 Jno Goulden....................... 01 00 00 00 00 04 00 00 02 00 02 00 10 Peeter Floid........................ 01 00 00 1 00 00 00 0010 00 00 00 00 Wm Brothorton....................... 01 00 00 00 00 03 00 00 00 00 00 00 06 Benj: Jones,,.......................... 01 00 00 00 00 05 00 00 03 00 00 00 07 Jonath eind........................ 02 00 02 00 00 02 00 01 00 00 00 00 11 Jno Everit..,.....,....... 00 01 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 Roger Quint.......................... 000 0 00000000 00 00 00 00 00 Richard White.....,................ 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 01 00 00 00 00 00 ~~EmWidow. arJones,..o ^)06 00 00 00 04 08 00 04 06 10 14 00 48 A LIST, &c.-(CONTINUED.) b-0 0 b b 5 0 1I I 0I 0 I 1 - JnO Jones t. acSeeV o6 C o e.co0 01 00 0 0 00 0 02 01 1 00 01 00 00 00 13 Jno Ketcham........................ 02 00 00 00 04 03 01 00 00 06 02 0 09 parsons are not heir O 3a ~~ SC O ~~ cu p~~ B ed LONG ISLAND, 447 SOUTHHOULDS ESTIMATE THE 16TH SEPTEMBR 1675. John Paine 2: oxen: 5 Cows.,, 37 -- 1 heade......... 18 -- 1: 3 yr old: 2 2yr old 09 - - 10 acres land..,,.. 10 -- 4 Yerl..,....... 06 — 2 oxen......... 12 -- horse: 1: 3 yr old 20 5 Cows 1: 3 Yr old 29 -- 4 Swine....... 04 — 3: 2 Yrold..,.. 07 10 -.. 2: Yerlings... 03 - 106 - 3 horses...... 36 - Walter Jones 10 gotes..,....., 04 - 1 heade......... 18 — 12 acors land..... 12 -- 119. 10- 1 ox 3 cows....., 21 - Wm Robinson 1 a horse.......,, 06 — 1 heade 1 horse.. 30 -- 2: 2 yr olds 4 yer12 acors land...... 12 — lings........ 11 — 3 oxen........ 18 -—.. 3 cows........e 15- 68 -- 2: 3 Yr old....... 08 - Giddion Yongs 3: 2 Yrold....... 05 -- 1 heade.......... 18 — 3: Yerlings....... 04 10 - 35 acors land..,.. 35 - - % — 2 oxen: 5 cows.. o 37 — 92 10 - 1:3 yr 3: 2 yr olds 11 10 John Greete 4 yerlings........ 06 - - 1 heade.......... 18 - 2 horses 1 yerling.. 27 -- 30 acors land..,,, 30- 7 Swine....,,,,, 07 — 2 oxen.,........ 12 ----- 6 cows.....o.... 30 - 141 101: 3 Yr old....... 04 - Abrahak Whithere 2: 2 Yr olds.... 05 - 1 heade 25 acors 4: Yerlings...... 06 - land......... 43 - - 2 horses......... 12 - c1 ox 5 cows... 31 1 Yerlinghorse... 03 -- 3: 3 yr old.,.,.. 12 — 4 Swine........ 04 -- 2:2 yr old 2 yerlings 08 -- 4 —------— 4- horses.. e 54 - 124 -- 1 yerling horse.... 03 - - Caleb Curtis 8 Swine,,, o.. 08 - 1 heade 12 acors of —--. land..,,.,,. 30 -- 159 -- 448 BATE LISTS OF Tho: Terry Samll King I heade.. 3 — 18 heade o......,,. 18 —i 8 acors land.a. 08 -- 40 acors land o..o.. 40 -- 2: oxen 4 cows., 32 - 5 oxen..,,,.. o, 30 2: 3 yr olds....... 08 -- 6 cows. o,,,3.. 30 — 3: 2 yer old 2 yer- 2: 3 yr olds....... 08 — lings..,,. 100 - 5: 2 yr olds.,,... 12 103 horses 1: 3 yer old 44 - - 4 yerlings......., 06 --- 1 2 yr I yerling horse 08 - - 2 horses I Swine., 25- - 1 Swine.,. 01 -— _....-....... 169 10 — 129 10 Joseph Maps John Tuathl 1 heade 1: yr old... 20 10 - 2 heads...,...,, 36 - 40 acors land...., 40 -0 10._ 2 oxen 7 cows... 47 - Samnll Grouer 5: 3 yr olde....,.. 20 - 1 heade,...,,.,. 18.7: 2 yr olde 2 yer- 2 acors land..,., 2 lings........ 20 10- 1 horse I Cow.... 17 -- 3 horses & 1 yerling 39 - 9 Shepe......... 03 — 37 -- 1 Swine,.,,,.... 01 - Tho: Moore Junr _- - I1 heade....,,,, 18 -- 206 10- 40 acors land...,. 4 40 ~Richard Browne 4 oxen........... 24 - - 4 heads.,,,.., 7'72 - - 9 Cows....,,,,.. 45 - 50 acors land..,, 50 - 2 Yerlings......,, 03 -- 8 oxen..,...... 48 - 4 horses..,,.,,. 48 — 10 Cows........... 50 - - 8 shepe.......... 06 -- 6: 3 yr old..,,... 24 - - 2 Swine........ 02 -- 7 2 yr old,....... 17 10 - 5 yerlings s..,.... 07 10- 186 — 6 horses........ a 72 - Jonathan Moore 1: 3 yr old I yerling 11 -- 1 heade......... 1824 Shepe.,........ 08 - 40 acors land...... 40 — 10 Sine 1..,, - 2 oxen 6 cows... 42 - 1: 3 yrold 1: 2 yrold 06 10 370 - 4 yerlings s..,,). 06 — LONG ISLAND, 449 2 horses 1: 2 yrold 29 - 1: 3 yrold Bull. 904 - - 6 Swine e o, oe 06 - --- 348-10 358-1i08- 358 10 147 10 Jacob Conklin Capt John Yongs I heade..,... 18 --- 3 heads 10 acres land 64 -- 14 acors lando o... 14 - - 2 oxen 4 cows..., 32 — 2 oxen 4 cowso,... 32- - 4: 3 yr2:2 yrold... 21 — 4 3yr5:2 yr: 3 yer4 yerlings...... 06 - lings, o0, o o,. 33 - - 8 horsese,,... 96 - — 2 horses 0. o 0.... 24- - 9 Shepe 6 Swine.. 09 -- 3 Shepe 8 Swine,. 09 —-.228 -- -130 - Mr John Yongs Jur John Cory 1 heade.......... 18 - 1 heade. o o.......' 1824 acors land.,.. 24 - 1 ox e...... 06 -- 4 oxen: 7 Cows..0 59 — 1 horse 1 3 yrold,. 20 — 6 Yrlings...,,.. 09 - -9 2 horses........, 24 — 44 — 2 Yrlings..... 06 — _ Thomas Rider 15 Shepe.......... 05 2 heads.....o 36 — - 3 Swine........, 03 - - 30 acorsland o.,., 30 -- 4 oxen 8 cows... 64 -- 148- 1: 2 yrold 1 3 yrold 06 10 - Peter Simons 4 yerlings....o... 06 -- 1 heade......... 18 - -24 shepe 10 Swine.. 18 — Mr John Conklin.. 1 head 80 acors land 98 -- 160 10 - 8 oxen....,..,, 48 - -John Franklin and John Wigins 9 Cows........ 45 - - 2 heads 40 acors land 76 -- 5: 3 yrolds...,.. 20 - - 4 oxen: 6 cows... o, 54 — 9: 2 yr olds....,, 22 10 - 12 yrold 5 yerlings 10 — 6 yerling........, 09 - 2 horses 1: 2 yrold 295 horses.......... 60 — - 9 shepe 0......... 03 — 3: 2 yrold horses... 15 -- - 4 Swine,. o o o 04 --- 21 shepe...... 07 —. 20 Swine o....... 20 — 76 — VOL. Io, 29 460 RATE LISTS OF Jeremy Vale 2: 3 yrold 2 Swine. 11 - 3 heads.,...... 54 -- -- -- 10 acors land 2 oxen 22- -78 - - 6 cows 3:3 yrolds.. 42 - - Isack Reeues 1 2 yrold 3 yrlings. 07 - - 1 head 1 horse..... 30 - l horse 12 Shepe.. 16 --- Il Swine...... 1 1 - Samll Yongs 1 heade 8 acors land 26 -- 1.52 — 2 Cows...,..... 10 —-- Edward Petty 2: 3 yr 2: 2 yr olds 13 - 2 heads......, 36 — 1 horse....... 12 -- 10 acors land....... 10 - 1:3 yr yerling.. 11 2 oxen 5 cows. e.. 37 --- 1 horse........... 12 - 72 — 9_- -Stephen Bayly 95 - - 1 heade....... 18 —. Simon Grover 13 acors land....... 1 - - 2 heads 5 acors land 41 - 2 Cows 3: 3 yerolds 22 - - 2 cows......e... 10 - 1 1 horse 1 yerling... 15 - 1: 2 yrold 1 yerling 04 -- 3 Shepe......... 01 — 1 horse 3 Swine.., 15 - 69 —70 - - M1' John Yongs marinr Nathall Moore 1 heade 2 acors land 20 -- i head........... 18 - Cows.......... 20 - 4 acors land 2 cows 14 - - 1 horse 1 swine.... 13 -- 32 - 53Mr Thomas Moore Sent Samll Glouer I head 10 acors land 28 — 1 heade I ox..,... 24 - - 6 oxen 5 cows. 61 -- 3 C...... e... 152: 3 yr 2 yerlings.. 11 - 4':3yerold 3:3yerold 23 102 horses 3 Swine.. 27 - - horse 1 swine.,,. 13 -- 27 - 75 10Joseph Yongs Beniam Yongs 1 head 12 acors land 30 - 2 heads......, 36 —2 oxen 5 cows.... 37 -- 18 acors land....... 18 — LONG ISLA.". 451 6 oxen 3 cows. o.. 5 - - 5 horses. o o e o 60 --- 2 3 yrolds2: 2 yerold 13 -.2 3 yrold.. e 16 -- 1 horse I yerlinghors 15 - 1: 2 yrold 1 yerling 08 21 shepe: 2 Swine. 09 -- 5 Swine e,..... 05 ----- 6 shepe.,........ 02 -- 142 - -- Christopr Yongs Senr 228 10 - 1 heade 12 acors land 30 — Barnabs Horton 2 oxen 4 cows..... 32 — 2 heads...,...* 36 — 1: 2 yr old.... 02 10- 37 acors land...... 37 — 4 horses...... 48 - 9 oxen........... 54 — 12 shepe swine.... 08 - 8 cows....,.. 40 — 4- 3 yrold........ 16 - 120 10- 4: 2 yrold........ 10 — Richd Clark 4 yerlings...... 06 - - 1 head............ 18 - 69 shepe......... 23 — 4 acors land I Cow. 09 - 6 horses......... 72 - - 3: 3 yrold 2 yerlings. 15 -- 1 yerling......... 03 - i horse........... 12 -- 8 swine..,. o.O 08 - 6 shepe 6 swine... 08 - 305 - 62- - Jonathan Horton John Booth 1 heade,......,. 18 - 2 heads,..,.... 36 - 36 acors land....,. 36 - - 17 acors landa....., 11 - - 2 oxen 6 cows... 42 -- 3 oxen.........18 3: 3 yrolds...... 12 - 4 cows.......,,. 20 - 5:2 yrolds....... 2 10 2:2 yrolds 2 yerlings 08 - 2 yerlings........ 03 - 3) horses 1: 2 yrold. 41 - 3 horses I yerling. 39 -- 3 Shepe........ 01 - 9 shepe 6 swine... 09 - 6 Swine.,.... 06 0 ---- - 171 10 - 47 - - Richd Beniamin Johnl Curwim 2 heads..,....,. 36 - - 2 heads 21 acors land 5 -- 39 acors land...,. 39 - - 6 oxen 6 cows.... 66- 8 oxen 6 cows, e,.. 78 -- 3' 3 yrold....,. 12 — 2 3 yroldo 6:r2 yrold 23 — 1: 2 yrold.... o. 02 02 10 - 4: yerlings..... 06 - - 452 BATE LISTS OF 4 horses...... 48 --: 2 yrolds6 yrlings. 14' 2 yr: 1' yerling.. 13 — 6 sheep 6 swine..,, 08 4 swine.......... 04 — -- 1______. 152 - 247 -- Isaac Ouenton Beniam Moore 2 heades24 acors land 60 1 heade..,...... 18 - - 5 oxen: 6 cows.,, 60 14 acors land....... 14 - - 4 3 yr olds....... 16 4 cows; 2: 3 yrolds 28 - 8: 2 yer 6 yerlings 29 2: 2 yr: 2 yerlings.. 08 - - 4: horses 1 yerling 51 4 horses.......,,, 48 - - 20 shepe 9 swine... 16 2 Swinee...,.....02 - ~ 232-233 - - 118- - Mr Tho Hucisson Mr John Bud not being at home 1 heade 14 acorsland 32 is lumpt at by ye last years 5 oxen 5 cows.... 55 - accopt at....... ~ s d 4: 3 yr 3: 2 yr 2 300 - - yerlings...,... 22 10 - Abraham Cory 4 horses 19 swine., 67 - 1 heade 4 acors land 22 - - - 2 oxen...,.... 12 -- 176 2: 3 yrold 1: 2 yrold 10 10 - Jacob Cory 1 horse: 1 yerling., 15 - 1 heade 10 acors land 28 -- 5 swine........, 05 - 4 oxen 2 cows..... 34 — - * 3: 3 yr 2 yerlings., 5 - - 64 10 - I horse 4 swine,a.. 16 -- Joshua Horton 1 heade 20 acres land 38 - -93 8 oxen 4 Cows.,.. f8 - - Tho Reeues 7: 3 yr 3: 2 yr 3 I heade23acors land 41 -- yerlings....,,. 40 - 4 oxen 5 cows.,,,. 49 - - 3 horses: 1 2 yrold. 41 -- 2: 3 y3yr 3: 2 yer10 swine,.....,.., 10 - lings,....... 1s 18 10-.....2 horses 5 swine,, 9 - 9 - 197 -. Baranbs Wines 137 101 heade 15 acors land 53 - John ReeuLes 2 oxen 9 cows,,.. 57 -- 1 heade 1 ox,,,.... 24 -- 5: 3 yr olds. 20 ~ 1, 3 yr 1 yerling.... 05 10 — LO'o ISLAND. 453 1 horse 1: 3 yr old 7 oxen 8 cows... 82 -- horse.... o.. 20 -- 2: 3 yrold..,...., 08 - 5 Swine... e e,. 05 - -- 5 2 yr yrlings.., 20 -- 2 horses........ 24 - - 54 10 - 1: 3 yr I yrling... 11 -- Peeter Paine 18 Swine......... 18 - 1 heade 6 acors land 24 -- -- 2cows...,,..... 10- 219- - 2: 2 yrold: 2 yerlings 08 - - Samll Wines 1 horse 4 swine,,, 16 — 1 head 9 acors land 27 - - 2 oxen............ 12 —58 - - 4 cows 3 yrlings.... 24 10Dainell Terry 1 horse 3 Swine... 15 -- 1 heade 12 acors land 30 -- -- 4 oxen 5 cows,. 49 — 78 10 — 3 3 yr: 3: 2 yr 3 yer- Mrs Mary Welles lings.......... 24 - - 26 acors land,...,, 26 - - 1 horse 1 yerling.., 15 -- 4: oxen 6 cows..,, 54 - - 8 swine.......... 08 -- 5: 3 yrolds........ 20 - - _.. —.. 7: 2 yr 2 yrlings.... 20 10 - 126 - 27 Shepe......... 09 - Peeter Dicisson 5 horses... 60 - 2 heads 20 acors land 56 -- 3 y 1:2 r 1 er1' 3 yr 1' 2 yr I yer8 oxen....@ eeee * 48 -- l8 oxen....... ~ 48 — ling horse,.....16 -- 12 cows..... 60 — 2 Swine,,,,,,, 2 — 12Swine.......... 12 - 3e 3 yrolds........ 12 —_ 6: 2 yrolds 3 yerlings 19 10 217 10 1 horse.e. e-o~ * oa 12 -.. Simieon Beinam 1: 3 yr 1:2 yrold. 13 -- - 1: 3 yr 1: 2Iyrod.. 13 --- heade 10 acors land 28 —40 gotes........... i6 - --- 40 gotes.......e 16 -- 2 oen 3 cows.,,, 27 14.Swie..,,... 4 3 yrold 1 yerling., 19 -- 250 10 - 2 horses 1 yr... 2, 27 — Richard Cozens 3 shepe 4 swine... 05 --- 1 heade........ 18 1 06 — 4 acres land,0.... Will Colleman 22 - - heade 4 acors land 22 - Nathall Terry 2 cows.... e..... 10 - 2 heads 20 acors land 56 2- -- 2 yrolds e... 05 - - 454 R'E LISTS OF 2 yerlings........ 03 - 3 horses 2 yrlings 1 horse 1: 2 yrold-. 17 - horse........, 42 - - 2 Swine. o....... 02 20 Swmine.., 20 - 59 227 10 - Calib Horton Thoms Terrill 1 heade 80 acors land - - I heade 1.4 acors d 32 - 6 oxen,...... 636 - oxen 3 comrs 2.. _ 12 CowS B^0 60- 3: 3 yr old... 12 -- 5: 3 yr olds.., 20 - 2 yr old 2 yerlings 08 7: 2 yr olds *...,. 17 10 2 horses wine. 30 -- 7 yerlings...,.... 10 102 horses 1: 3 yr old 109 - horse........ 32 - - James Reeues 1: 2 yr old 1 yerling 1 heade 24 acors land 42 horse......... 08 -- 10 oxen 7 cows... 95 - 2 Swine...,...... 02 - - 6: 3 yr olds... 24 - 5 — 5 2 yr 2 yerlings.o 15 10-.282- _- -,3 horses...,..... 36 -- -- Tho Maps Junr 3 h e o ~ o _ e ~gg~,Tho MIaps Jaunr 1- 3 yr old I yerling 11. - heade 15 acorsland. 33 -- 3 Shepe 20 Swine o11 ox: 3 Cows.... 21 - - 2: 3 yr 4: 2 yr 2 244 10yerlings..,.., 21 - Will Reeues 1 horse 12 Swine.,, 24 -- - heade 5 acors land 23 - -99 _- - 3 cows - 3 yr old 19 — 2: 2 yr 3 yerlings.. 09 10 - Thomas Tusteene ^ 1 horse 6 swne,... 18 - 1 heade 6 acors land 24 -- - 2 oxen 1 Cow. 17 —-- 69 10 1' 3 yr 2: 2 yr: 1 John Swasie Senr yerling..,..,08 --- 2 heads....,,... 36 - 1 hors S3 Swine.. 15 -- 12 acors land.. 12 l — 64 == 6 oxen 6 cows...,- 66 -- I4 3 yr old bull.. 04 — Thomns Maps Sen I 3 r old bll., y 04 5Th aps 2 yr old yerling 14 - 2 heads24 acors land 60 - horses....... 48 - 6 oxen 6 cows -. 76 S - w 0.ne... 20 - 30. 3 yr olds i...... 12 _- -. 4 2 yr o ld 5 yerli gs 17 1.0 ~200. LONG ISLATO..,. 456 John Swasie Jun"r 2 oxen I cow.., 17 - 1 heade 10 acors land 28 - 1: 3 yr old.., 04 - - 2 oxen 2 cows...., 22 — 2 2 y 2: 2 yerlings.. 08 - 1: 2 yr old 4 yerlings 08 10 - 1 horse I yrling... 15 - - 4 Swine.......... 04- 5 Gotes 7 swine.. 09 62 10 77 — Joseph Swasie Thorns Osman 1 heade 8 acors land 26 -- 2 heads 8 acors land 44 - 2 oxen 2 cows..... 22 4 oxen 4 cows... 44 1: 2 yr 1 yerling... 04 - - 5: 3 yr olds...... 20 -- 1 horse........... 12 2 - 2yr.......,, 15 -.- --- 4 horses.,..,.... 48 -- 66 - 1: 2 yr old horse.. 05- - Will Halloke 9 swine.......... 093 heads.......... 54 - -- - 70 acors land....... 70 -194 8 oxen......., 48 - Will Poole 14 cows......... 70 - 2 heads 7 acors land 25 -- 4: 3 yr old......... 16 - 2 oxen 8 cows,... 52- 0: 2 yr old........ 1 3 yr old 1 2 yr old 06 109 yerlings........ 13 10- 7 yerlings........ 10 10 - 2 horses......... 24 - horse 8 swine..,, 20 - 4: 2 yr old 1 yrling 11 - - 30 Swine.......... 30 -114 — Christopher Yongs Junr 361 10 - 1 heade I horse.... 30 -- Joln Hallok 2: 3 yr olds 2: 2 yr 1 heade......... IS, 1 - ~ olds,,,B.... 26 - ~ 4 acors land.,,, 04 - ---- 2 oxen 2 cows..... 22 -56- - 2 yrlings.......... 03 - John Sallmon 2 horses 1: 2 yr old 29 - 1 header,...,,,. 38 k - ~ 6 Swine.......,. 06 - 1: 3 yr old horse,, 08 — 82 2 I6 Rlichard lHowell "Janes Lee I heade 6 acors land 24 -- 1 heade..,.... 8. r 456 RATE LISTS OF Benin Horton 4:3 yr old 0 e e. 16 1 head e. I.... 18 —- - 1: 2 yr old o".... 02 10 70 acors land.. o o 70 - ~ horse. o e...e e 12 -- - 4 oxen. e,.... e 24 — 2 Swine......... 02 - -- 8 cows o o o.. e 40 --- --- 4: 3 yr olds.... 16 - 72 10 - 5: 2 yr old....... 1i2 - The totall Summe is 4 horses......e e 48 —- ~o s. d 4 S wine..,... 04 -- 10935: 10: 00 Endorsed 232 10 — A Southhold Valuacons Sarah Yongs past Octob 25 1675 8 acors land.... 08 10935-10-0 2 oxen 4 cows. e o- 32 45-11-3 To the worsi his ever honrd & much esteemed friend Capt Matthias Nicolls Secretary at N: Yorke theise prsentSouthampton Sept: 28: 1675. WORTHY SR-Wee the subscribed pesent our best respects to you hopeing of & much Desireing your good health &c: Wee reed your order or warrant for ye makeing up and sending to you the estimate or waluation of our towne And at length with care and trouble wee have effected it: And it exactly amounts to twelve thousand five hundred and fourty one poundes xvis viiid: Wee have dilligently accompted every mans estate vp, & that is the just totall according to our best inspection; Wee herein send you not the' pticulers, for wee conceive that would bee but lost labour to vs, and noe advantage, nor more satisfaction: but rather a cumber to you: And therefore according to our former maner to ye High Shereife wee Send you the Sume in gross, which wee hope will be Sufficient, & fully answer your expectation: Wee crave yor favour & pdon that wee could not procure it Sooner into your hand; But hope it will come So Seasonably, that wee haveing your' Order by the bearer our loveing friend and much respected: Justice Topping at his returne, may make paymto in the most Suitable maner wee can to the Cuntries LONG ISLAND. 45 occations; But corme is but Scarce with most of ye Inhabitants & wee desire that Specie may not bee enjoyned in your warrant, Sr wee have presumed to write to the Governr respecting our estimate, and therein what we have Sett ye horse-kinde at, & have made request to him touching that Subject. If his honr bee not well pleased, Wee desire yor worPP: to bee Instrumentall as you can to excuse our goeing beside that old law or order (which wee can not but thinke now to follow is excessive hard and oppressive) that rates horses and mares one with another at 121b a peece. Sr there are so many people everywhere, besides ours, doe Soe exceedingly complaine that mares Should be rated at 121b ps, when hardly the best will give 41b and many of them not 40s a peece, emboldened us now to accompt them at 411 a peece one with another which is more than any one will give - Yet least it should fall out (contrary to our expectation and beleif) that his honr the Governr Should be dissatisfyed,and that wee may deale uprightly, discharge our Conscience for the towne and Duty towards ye Cuntry wee have as afforesaid Sumd up the horses and mares at 4lb 3 year olds at 3 lb two year'l: at 40s and year'l at 20s ps: And withall we have collected out of all the bills men pticulorly brought in, the just numbers of horses & mares -3 year olds 2 year olds & yearlings: that Soe, if not witestanding our honebl Governr Shall See cause, & it be his pleasure to continue them Still at ye old rate of 121b a ps: &c. We crave yor favour to view the inclosed acet and ad the difference on yt which remaines (according to ye Sd acct) unto our waluation. And yen ye estimate will bee compleated: Sr ift is Desired yt at ye Court you will promove the alteration of valuation of ye horse kind: Sr Wee are yors to Comand to our power Wee are greived to heare of ye loss THOMAs TOPPING Const of English blood by ye cruell dam- HENRY PEIRSON ned pagans and very many are THoMAS CooPER Sorry the Indians here have theire FRANCIS SAWYER guns returned to them, JOHN FAY-GAN 458 A~.2 LISTs oF (Enclosed) lb. s, d, 250 horses & mares at 41b: ps. o 1000 00 00 19 of three year old at 31b ps: o..... 0057 00 00 35 of 2 yeare old at 2lb. ps: ~....... 0070 00 00 29 yearlings at S209 ps,......... 0029 00 00 1156 00 00 250 -- at 12 b: p:............. 3000 00 00 19 - at 8lb ps:,. o............ 0152 00 00 35 - at 51h.:..ps.. e......... 0175 00 00 29 -at 31b ps........... 0087 00 00 3414 00 00 Substancted....d. 1.156 00 00 Remniaes 0...., 2258 00 00 Endorsed Southton Valuacons brought in Octr 20d:1675 (Note by the Govo) 13667-16-8 Rate 56-18-l11 The 1156 added. Past VALUATIONS OF ESTATES AT FLUSHING 1675. L.....I Ie - 1 d Charles bridgs... e-~ 08 50 60 07 00 020 040 12 10 04 04 06 00 John Furboshb...........O. 03 18 40 04 00 00 00 06 08 03 03 03 00 30 Alias doutvy.,,....... 01 12 20 00 00 00 i 00 12 00 03 00 04 40 John Thorn................ 06 10 01 00 00 00 02 08 00 02 02 03 06 williacm noble...............o.. 1 | 01 05 20 01 00 00 00 02 04 02 01 01 03 12 Ianiell patrek.,.............. 00 04 00 01 00 00 00 00 00 02 02 01 00 00 dorothy farin:gton......... 00 12 30 03 00 00 00 02 083 00 05 16 30 James Clamenes................ 04; 00 000 0 00 00 03 00 1 0 02 00 anthony fellde.............., 00 07 20 02 1 00 0 01 02 051 0 0 00 Thom lias stelles. O00.12 120 1 0000 000 02 0 1 00 0 0 03 0700 richard tew.................. 00 04 00 01 00 00 00 00 01 00 00 0 00 00 willam dranlard................. 00. 0 04 05 1 00 02 00 0 0 0 00 00 O0 00 John tere..e G... e..,. j 01 04 i O1 01 00 01 00 0 2 0 0 00 00 i00 10 Richd vwill4de. co. I....5.. j00 10 01 070 00 00 00 03 02 01 01 04 08 advard grifenu Jr....,........ 00 12 10 01 0000 00 02 07 04 02 02 00 0 richard stockton........... 01 1 2 0 1 0 0 0 i00 04 04 00 01 04 05 00 Jonethan wrigdht.,. ~ E o i.6... 00 06 00 01 00 00 00 004 0 1 04 00 00 Dens Holdrens, 0o l n;,,i0o 00 00 0100 00 00 00 04 0004 00 00 DerelArasone oee.. e,. oee..O 00 00 0 0 I0 00 00 010 02 00 0000 00 VALUATIONS &c.-(CONTINUED.) I/ g J Icoa I V I i i s? ~ ii i ~. John Adames........... 00......o.I 00 08 00 01 0000-000i - 01-04 00-01 02 01 00 John depre........................ 00 06 00 01 00 00 00 02 03 02 02 01 00 12 moses browne.................... 00 08 00 01 00 00 00 00 02 01 01 01 06 00 Williamyates........ 00 02 05 01 00 00 00 01 04 00 01 02 01 00 Thomas Whittiker.................. 00 08 00 02 00 00 00 00 02 00 00 01 03 00 John emere.................. 00 0. 00 04 00 00 00 02 03 00 00 00 00 00 icholas Parson................... 01 14 15 00 00 00 00 02 08 00 05 02 01 25 Thomas Cimse................. 00 04 00 01 00 00 00 0 2 0 0 00 00 00 00 Thomas ford...................... 00 01 00 02 00 00 00 00 02 00 00 0 1 03 00 Arien Cornelus.................... 00 06 00 2 00 0 0 0000 0300 0 00 00 08 samuel Thorn...... 00 04 05 01 00 00 00 02 00 03 01 00 04 00 henry teyler............. 00 20 10 0 00 00 00 00 04 00 00 00 01 20 John bowne................ 00 20 30 04 01 02 02 04 07 07 03 04 10 50 mary smith........... 00 14 10 02 00 00 00 02 04 04 00 00 08 11 John hinchman...................01 10 5 02 00 00 00 04 04 04 00 02 04 40 william haverland.................. 00 15 10 06 00 00 00 04 05 07 00 00 01 00 Thomas lawrance..... 01 02 30 01 00 00 00 02 04 02 00 00 02 00 Frances bloodgood................. 00 03 10 01 00 00 00 02 04 00 04 02 05 40 david Row....................... 00 16 06 00 00 00 0 02 06 01 02 01 06 16 william Chadderton...1.... 00 04 05 00 1 00 00 00 1 00 01 100 02 00 00 00 simon thewall.................... 00 03 00 00 00 00 1 00 02 03 00 02 00 04 12 John gelime....,,..............J 00 03 00 01 00 00 00 00 02 00 00 00 03 00 -Nicholus Snathan,............ 00 02 10 01 00 00 00 02 03 00 02 02 00 00 John hoper........., l e 4., 1..I 00 01 00 00 00 00 00 00 02 00 00 00 00 00 minderd Corto ~....,....., 00 00 10 01 00 00 00 00 02 02 01 00 00 00 gerret hendrekes.,,,.,........... 00 00 00 00 000 00 0 0 0003 00 00 00 00 00 Thomas willia0nes...,,......,. 01 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 william begen................ 00 02 00 00 00 00 00 02 00 02 00 00 00 00 Joseph Thorn., o................ 00 03 10 00 00 00 00 00 04 01 102 02 01 14 Endorsed, Valuacons of Estates at Flushing brought in Oct. 9, 1675 Exd lb s d Rate 18.3.10 ^p 46~2;RATE LISTS Or hed mone for singel men Elias pirrrington John farrington Edward. farrington Jonethon fillepes Andres depre pole denorman Edward grifen Junyet richerd tendoll Thomos mami John tayler Joseph haverland Jomh fellde flushing september 29 1675 Cap Thoms hikes hath not yet prought in a list of his estate This to Secretarie Nicolls att: N: Yorke Lett bee deliuered The.ACCoUMPTS from GPAUESEND this 14th of the 7th Mot Anno 1675 of all personns Rateable according to ye Law: as allso of there Lands both vpland and meadow Gronmd, With the number of there cattle namely: Oxen; Cows; horses, Mares: and Sheepe as follows Imprit: of: personns the troopers excepted........, e 3 30 of: oxen there is....................' 26 of: Cows there is to ye number off... e o 107 of: Cattle of three yeres ould there is.......... 20 of: Cattle of twoe yeares ould there is........... 32 of: Cattle of one yeare ould there is.......... o 55 of: Horses and Mares there is............. 62 of: Horses of three yeares ould,,,e.,.o.9.. 05 of: Homres of twoe years culd a................ 08 LON'G ISLAtrD 463 of: Hores of one yeare od............. 16 of: Sheepe to the number of.....,.....,..,,.. 60 of: Acors of vpland & Meadow ground.......... 932 By mee nicholas Stilwell Constable ~ s d and the Ourseers............ 13. 14. 3 Endorsed Gravesend Valuacons Brought in Septr 20th 1675 I'EX L. s. d Rate- 13- 1.4. 3 To MiM Mathias Nicoles Secretary at New Yorke this deliver RESPECITED SIR —According to your order i have herein Sent you the valvation of our townes estate, in the paper inclosed, So with my Service to you I rest yovrs to comand Hempsted Sept: 7th 1675. SIMON SARING ENCLOSURE:-The totall Sume of our townds Esteats doth amount to 11532-19-4 this yere deated at Hempsted this 28 day of Agust in the yere of our Lord 1675 NATHANIELL PEARSAI, Clar Endorsed The Returne of ye valuacons from Hempsteed brought in Sept 9th 1675. Octor 25. past.1532. 19. 4 48-,1-1 To the honed Capt Nicoles at New Yorke 0HoNaD S —We haue prentd to your uew the hole esteate of our towne as it is giuen in to us the ualewatieon where of doe amount to 57001 tihe troopers wth, their horsis being includid which deduct if you please Jemaica Septr th 8 1675 By order of the Constable and Oucrsecr BEIEMxIN Com Endorsed Jamaica Yaluacons Brought in Sept I th 1675. past Ocr 56 570023-15-0 - A LIST OFF THE ESTATE OF NEWTOWNE, SEPTR 1675. Iohn~ Burou s... 0 o Jonathan Hazard............ 1 16 i0 o 0 0 0 6 0 0 0 0 1 6 ~ 0 1John ff0rman, 1 0 0 1 0 0 5 2 4 Gershom hazard...3 1.. 0 OiO 2 2 0 0 0 0 0 Samuell Gray.............. 2 0 0 0 0 2 0 11 2 2 2 Jacob Reder.........,...,....... 2 26 12 0 0 1 2 5 2 212 2 3 Lambert Woodward................ I 8 1 1 l 0 0 2 310 2 2 6 7 Elaser Leaueridg....................... 110 0 0 010| 0 04 0 0 0 9 4 John Burrou gs................,..2 |40 1 0 |0 0 4 440 4 24 6 Nath:Pettet......,..,,...,.....l...... I 08 1 0 0 11 0 1 2 0 0 2 4 James.Way................... 1 20 1 0 0 0 2 4 6 6 3 20 0 1 Jerimih Burrouges................... I 6 2 01 0 0 2 3 0 1 2 00 CalibLeueridg....................... 2 29 1 0 0 0 2 0 2 1 14 1 Content titus....................... 20 1 0 0 |0 2 3 1 2 2 10 I Dannell Blomf1 30 1 0 0 0 4 4 2 2 1 4 3 Joseph Sackett........................1 03 1 0 0 1 2 2 2 3 1 Joan Scudder........................ 1 36 1 0 0 0 4 5 4 4 0 18 4 ero hzr ~0~004~ OO~ 1 31pi010j 0 2 3 2 1 21 1 Robart Colwell.......,.. 1 11 0 0 0 00 0 Richard Owen 0 r1 0...... 1 4 0 i 0 I 0 2 5| 0 0 0 3 Thomas Robarts................... 1 09 1 0 0 0 0 3 I I 2 1 I 4 Tho: Morrell......................... 1 09 O 010 0 0 0 1 2 0 0 0 0 0 ~ ~ 6 B 1 01 0 0 1 0 31 p James Way Junor....................... I 10 I 0 0 0 4 0 1 John Denman........................ j 12 1 1 1 0 0 11 0 0|2 abam frost...................O 1 0 0 0 0 2 11 1 0 0 0 John alburtis......................1 20 0 0 0 1 4 4 4 1 0 12 3 arthor alburtis......................1 8 1 0 0 1 I 0 00 2 Thomas petti t.......................... 1 15 1 01 2 3 02 0 0 5 4 John Scudder Jur......... 1 12 i 0 1 2 414 1 1 5 4 HIendrick Jonson..................... 1 03 i1 0 0 3 1 1 0 0 1 John Reder..........................1 1 1 0 2 2 2 6 3 Theophi: phillips............. 6 1 0 0 0 2 2 00 2 6 6 ^ John Ramsden..................... 2 30 1 0 0 0 4 5 3 4 3 8 3 John Coe.................., 4.. 22 1 0 2. 4 0 1 0 6 9 Joseph phillips.,...........1 2 1 i 0 3 1 O 2 1 0 Thom: Wandall................. S93 O 8 5 6 5 5 6 Georg Steauenson...................... 1 45 2 0 0 1 4 6 4 3 3 10 James Lawrason.......10 0 0 0 2 0i 0 11 00 Thomas Etherington.......1.... 04 0 0 0 1 0 0 O 20 00 Nathan ffish.,,........,,...... 1 8 0 0 0 0 < 01 3 Nath: Baly.,............. 1 0 0 0o1 O 0 0 John pettit..................*... 1 0 O O0 2 2 0 0 2 Georg Wood.,,.20 0 O 2 2 0 2 10 0 Joshua h0 azard0,1 0 0 0 Thomas Larence....,........... 1 40 2 0 0 4 3 5 00 14 i 0 3 i i 0; 3 450 I olo!0 4 <312t3 00 5 John Kitcbam. a -e,.~ e. k.e...,. 9 - 3 5 1 0 0 0 5 00 William Graues....^.-...... O 16, 1 0 jl|0 ^j2|^ |3 i I g0I A LIST, &c.-(CONTINUED.) ~ " 7T i r o 5 0 Cs cl wr=n OQ.11.I~ Q) EO k k ~ C a ) 4 i i' is Q) q~ is Q) i a & Cd 0 0 x barrik Sibartson...................... 0 30 2 2 0 of 2 4 0 0 0 00 1 Sibart harrickson...........,,........ 1 24 1 0 0 2 3 0 0 0O 00 1 Hendrik Marteaceson................... 1 16 2 0 0 1 2 2 0 1 0 2 0 CornelusMateace..................... 1 10 % 0 0 0 2 4 0 0 2 0 0 John Smith.............. 2 29 1 0 0 0 2 5 4 3 2 15 - Jeri: Reader......................... 1 14 [ 1 0 0 0 I 1 0 1 0o2 - " SamuellScudder.,.,....,,.......... 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 oio 00 0 E William Burtis.....,,............... 1 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0j 00 0 ~Thomn: Case~...... ~..,~......... 1 20 1 i 0 0 2 4 0 2 2 20 3 John parsell............. 2 40 2 0 0 0 2 2 4 4 20 44 44 Johanes Lorus....................... 1 10 0 0 0 0 O 1 1 2 1 0 i 1 John Woodstoncraft.......,....... 1 10 1 0 0 0 0 2 4 0 - - - - BIickhood............,.... 1 5 0 0 9 0 0 1 1 1 0 0 - John Lorus.......................... 0 12 0 0 0 0 2 2 0 1 1 0 - Lores Petersono.....,.............. 1 8 0 0 0 0 2 1 2 0 0 1 0 Gershom More........................ 2 20 1 0 0 1 2 2 3 0 30 3 Joseph Redde....................... 1 00 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 O 00 0 Edwa: Steuenson.,.. a.......0.... 0 3010 0 0 0 2 4 0 O0 1 - William hallit..........-..,....... 1 25 4 0 0 3 2 5 -2 2 0 14 3 Will: hallet Junor..o..,.........,, 0 13 1 0 I 0 1 22 23 3 2 peter Roulsson............... 1 2 i 0 0 0 2 4 0 2 2 0 0 Tho: Riders bore.a,........... 1 15 2 0 0 0 2 2 0 0 2 0 3 Jona: Strickland..................... 1 1511 0 0 1 2 4 1 2 2 4 2 John Copstafe...................... 00 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 O 0 0 Josiah ffarman............... 2 15 1 0 0 0 2 4 0 0 2 4 Robart ffeelde....................... 1 30 1 0 0 0 2 5 3 2 1 20 2 ffrances Hlendrick................. 1 10 2 0 0 3 0 2 2 00 1 Tho: Steuenson.................... 1 34 0 0 0 0 4 7 3 2 1 9 5 peter pangburn........................ 1 00 0 0 0 O 1 0 Joseph burrougs..................... 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 John Bull...................... i 1 4 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 Samuel More........................... O 1 0 0 0 2 3 0 2 1 5 3 John Graues........................ 1 00 0 0 0 0 2 3 0 2 6 4 Richard ffidoe.a.......o.........18.. 1 18 O 0 3 0 1 1 3 3 Ralph Hunt..................2 30 1 110 4 4 3 2 16 2 NeMwtowne Valuations brought in Sepr Beginning Ex --- 1675. Rate-26-6-8. Poal A VALLUATION FOR THE CONTRY PARTE OF BROOKHAVEN IN THE YERE OF OUR LORD GOD 1675. parsons F,' Cd QQ Q) W O cf3 O ~ 90 B B Q P " 8 0 " 8 I9 gr H pI ~ ~ s | xE! o U'f ~ti horses.eo*.o.. 0 2 0 2 horses...,.......0 2 0 i person.......... 0 I 6 1 " of 1 yeare.... 0 0 3 _ 44 acors land........ 0 3 8 Cornelius Boyce 5 person........ o. 0 1 6 2cowes.......... 0 0 10 0104' 1 horse..........0 1 0 o 10 41 2 1 person........... 0 1 6 John Lake Junr1' iMare............ 0 I 0 0 3 4 1 head.., o....o 0 1 6 William Williamson -5 cowes........ 0 2 1 02 6 1 " 2years...... 0 0 2A Martha Wilkins 2 1 yeare...... 0 0 3 6 cowes.......... 0 2 6 1 horse......... 0 1 0 1 "1 3 yeares..... 0 0 4 44 acors land........ 0 3 8 2 2yeares.... 0 0 5 1 personn......... 0 1 6 3 1 yeare..... o 0 4O4 2horses.,........ 0 2 0 0 88 acors of land...,,. 0 7 4 Jeremie Stillwell 16 acors land........ 0 1 4 0 12 11I --- 510 XiATE LISTS OF Carson Johnson ~ s. d. 3 3 yeares... 0 1 0 10 cowes.....e..o 0 4 2 5 " 2yeares..... 0 1 00f 3 "6 of2 yeares... 0 0 7 6 " 1 yeare..... 0 0 9 4 " of yeare.... 0 0 6 3 horses......... 0 3 0 1 "; of4 yeares... 0 0 5 1;; 2 yeares.... 0 0 5 4horses,......... 04 1 " 1 yeare.... 0 3 1 "G 3 yeares.... 0 8 100 acors land...... 0 8 4 44acors land....... 0 3 8 I heade,..,...... 0 1 6 2 persons.........O 3 0 5 sheepe.......... 0 0 1O 17 O0 1 0 2 Nicholas Stillwell Danniell Lake...... 0 1 6 6 cowes...... 0 2 62 "4 3 yeares ould. O0 8 John Tilton Jur 3 " 2 yeares..... 0 0 72 7 cowes.......... 0 211 2 " I yeare...... 0 3 3; 3 years..... 0 1 0 2 horses......... 2 0 3 1 yeare... 0 0 41 44 acors land..,.... 0 3 8 3 horses.......... 0 3 0 ----- 1 3 yeares.... 0 0 8 0 9 S1 0 9 8- 1 " 2 yeares.... 0 5 Johannus Michaelson 2 " yeare.... 0 0 6 4 cowes......... 0 0 8 60 acorsland....... 0 5 0 1 " of 3 yeares.. 0 0 4 1 heade,....,.. 0 1 6 1 Mare......... 0 1 0 - 44 acors land...... 38 015 4 1 personn........ 0 1 6 Jo: Tilton Senr 5 cowes.......... 0 2 1 0 8 2 Ihorse............ 0 1 0 John Poling 9 Sheepe.......... 0 0 3 3 cowes..........0 1 3 2 hoggs..........O 0 3 1 " of yeare.... 0 0 1' 29 acors land.....o 0 2 5 2 horses......... 0 2 017 aco land.......0 1 0 6 44 c more of land.. 0 3 8 Alse Osborne 1 heade......... 0 1 6 10 cowes.......... 4 2 — 5 " 3yeares... 0 1 8 0 9111 2 6 2yeares.... 00 5 Sammll Spicer 5 a 1 yeare.... 0 0 7g 9 cowes e..o.... e 0 3 9 horses......... 0 5 0 LONG ISLAND.:511 115 acors land...,.. 0 9 7 Elias Dawes 1 cowe........... 0 0 5 1 Mare...,,,c.,.. 0 1 0 John Carsonsonn 1 personn.......... 0 1 6 2 cowes,..o.. 0 0 10 I Mare Oe 9 1 0 02 11 1 heade....o..e 0 1 6 Jonathan Bayly..... 0 1 6 Yawcum Goijliffe.. 0 4 3 0 3 4 William Goulding....0 2 0 Lawrence Haft 2 cowes....,. o e 0 10 Per me 22 acors of land... 0 1 10 WMWILLIAMSON Constable. 1 heade,...I.,. 0 1 6 Endorsed 3 _.jQU ~ Graues Ends 0 4 2 Estimation 1683 RATE LIST OF NEWTOWN 1683. ba cs a,?-* ~ <-> cu . o ^. > p John Coe........................... 2 300 1 0 0 0 I 4 0 0 0 6 6 John S1mith0..................... 1 so 2 1 1 1 4 9 9 10 6 30 8 John. Eaisden...................... 2 30 2 0 0 0 2 9 0 3 4 6 7 Thomas Stevnson..................... 1 40 1 0 1 1 4 8 5 5 4 20 7 Joseph Bourroughs................. 18 0 1 0 0 1 3 1 2 3 00 0 s~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Samuel Kitsham b.................. 1 5 1 0 0 0 0 3 0 1 00 0 t John Kitsham...............1. 80 3 0 0 1 4 8 4 2 8 20 3 phillip itsham.................... 1. I 20 1 0 0 0 2 2 0 1 0 4 2 John Bourroughs....................... I O I 1 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 Joseph Rcede...,,................... 1 00 0 0 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 Edward Steveson................,..... 1 40 1 0 0' 0 3 6 1 2 1 12 1 Joshua Hazard...,............ 1 00 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Thomas oas on...a.................. 2 40 2 0 0 0 3 3 2 2 1 3 0 Jeremiah Reeder.................. 1 10 0 0 0 0 2 3 0 1 0 3 3 ThomasEtherington.................... 1 00 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 Joseph Reeder....................... I 10 1 0 1 0 1 1 3 2 0 0 0 Jacob Reeder.....C................. 1 20 2 0 0 0 2 3 3 0 1 3 2 Content titus,....,................... I 18 2 0 0 0 2.6 1 2 0 16 3 Caleb Leveridg...................... 2-4 1 0 0 0 2 4 0 1 1 15 1 Eleazor Leveridg.................. | 1 00 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 3 0 o osepn Lacit.......................... 1 20 110 0 0 0 3 2J2 2 8 1 ^ daniell blomfield..................... 1 15 1I 0 0 0 3 3 0 2 2 12 3. John Reeder................ 10 0 1 0 2 6 1 0 3 10 1 Richad owin....................... 1 10 2 0 0 0 1 3 2 0 1 10 0 Lambart Woodward........................... 0 0 0 1 5 0 1 2 10 0 Samuell More,,.................. 1 30 1 0 0 0 2 6 2 2 3 12 4 Benimin Cornish.................. 1 2 1 0 0 0 0 2 0 00 0 Samuel fish.....,................... 1 6 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 Stofoll fon Lawes..,...,..........1. 1 0 0 0 0 2 O O 0 0 0 John pettit............................... 1 8 1 0 0 0 2 4 1 0 6 2 Josiah forman juner................. I 10 0 0 0 010 3 0 0 0 4 0 Robart feild juner................... 0 12 0 0 0 0 0 3 0 3 6 0 obart feild sener...................... 0 0 2 1 2 2 6 1 Jonath: Strickland...................,. 0 20 1 0 0 0 012 3 2 2 8 0 Jonathan farman................... 1 0 01 2I 2 0 0 0 7 1 Josiah farman sener..................... 1 20 1 0 0 0 2 3 0 3 0 0 0 Georg Wood...................... 0.30 2 0 0 0 0 5 0 0 0 0 4 Nathaniell bayly...................... 1 10 0 0 0 0 0 0 4 0 0 0 0 0 Richard fidoe....,..................... 16 1 1 0 0 4 3 2 0 4 0 Gershom More...................... 1116 1 0 0 0 2 6 0 6110 1 Nathan fish......................... 1.. 10 0 0 0 0 0 2 1 0 11 2 Thomas Morrell......,.......,....... 2.25 1 0 0 0 4 2 0 1 0 1 Gor C....ook.. o O........... 1 0 1 Oi 0 0 0i 0 0 0 0 0 0 Gershom hazard............^..... 1 3 1 0 0 0 0 1 0 1 0 0 0 Jonathan hazard.............,........ 1 20,1 0 0 0 2 5 0 2 0 8 1 Joseph phillips........................0 0 0 2 2 1 1 0 Theophilus pbillips.......15 I 1 0 0 0 2 66 0 210 8 I ^ RATE LIST, &c.-(CONTINUED.)'*0 ^3 h o o o... co c o Edward Hunt....................... 2 30 2 0 0 2 5' 2 4 5 Jerimiah bourroughs..120 1 0 0 0 2 4 2 2 3 6 2 John Copstafe........................ 0 6 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 1 John Reed.................... 1 1 0 0 2 3 0 0 0 4 0 JohnRosell........ 2 1 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 SamuellScudder...................... 2 30 2 0 0 0 4 10 1 1 John Allburtis................ 0 0 0 0 2 4 1 1 3 6 2 Thomas Case.. 1.....0 0 0 0 4 0 2 12 0 Thomas wandall...............800 2 0 2 9 1 3 40 7 John Denman................... 1 15 1 0 0 1 0 4 0 0 1 8 0 Luck depaw.............. 0 10 1 0 00 0 2 00 0 6 0 Jamesway sener................... 1 1 1 0 00 2 4 3 2 1 7 0 Johln way............................ 1 15 1 0 0 0 2 4 2 2 2 12 0 Moses pettit......................... 1 6 0 0 0 0 0 3 0 0 0 0 1 John farman........................ 1 8 1 0 0 0 2 1 1 0 0 0 11 Thomas pettit..................... 1 20 2 0 0 0 2 3 0 1 1 41 2 Nathaniell pettit......1 10 1 0 0. 0 2 4 0 1 2 3 0 William hallett Senr.... 4 23 4 0 0 0 4 8 4 4 4 10 3 William hallett junr........1 2... 1 20 0 0 0 1 2 7 4 4 3 00 0 Samuell hallit....................... 15 0 0 1 2 5 1 3 2 0 5 Thomas Laur ens,...................... 3 40 3 0 0 3 4 10 6 6 8 0 Joha Lawrens..........0........' 0 10 0 0 0 0 4 3 00 0 0 Thomas skillman..................... 1 10 1 0 0 0 0 6 3 0 2 2 0 Arnute webber...........,........... 1 00 0 0 0 00 0 0 00 0 0 0 John Harrickson......,........... 1 22 5 0 0 2 0 7 4 5 3 7 0 Hendrick Smith......................... 2 6 3 2 0 2 0 5 2 4 5 4 1 Nicolos Edds....................... 1 10 1 0 0 0 2 3 0 1 1 0 0 Johanis Loroson....................... 1 20 2 0 0 0 0 4 0 0 0 3 0 John woollton Croft.................. 1 12 010 0 0 0 4 3 0 0 0 0 Andrew burd........................ 1 4 2 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 1 0 1 Georg Stevenson.................40 3 0 0 0 0 8 2 2 3 8 Steuen Georgson........... 1 8 2 0 0 0 0 2 1 0 0 0 1 John Parsell.......................11 0 0 0 0 3 0 2 0 0 0 widdow Parsell.....................................2 3 4 2 3 0 Thomas Parsell..............,...... 2 20 3 0 0 o 0 2 1 0 0 0 1 peter Johnson buckhood................... 2 251 2 0 0 0 4 0 0 4 4 0 John buckhood................... 1 12 0 0 0 0 2 2 2 22 4 1 Robart blackwell.................. 1 2012 0 0 0 0 3 0 2 2 0 2 Abram Reeck............. 1 14 2 0 0 0 0 3 0 0 2 4 1 hendrick martenson,............... 1 8 3 0 0 1 1 4 1 2 0 7 0.John Johnson fine..................... 1 24 1 0 0 0 0 4 2 22 0 4 0 Roullof peterson...I..........0 0 2 0 4 4 0 0 Riner Mill 100l b...................... Newtowne List of their Inhabitants Estates as they haue Giuen it in to the Clerke of ye towne JONATHAN HAZARD. 0 Endorsed, Newtowne Estimations 1683 FLUSHING ESTIMATIONS; 29TH SEPTR. 1683. C~2 0 B i 0 cIs js j^ I s C C) C g3 uo co, ~ i. M'. John Laurence junior.. 4 60 30 8 - - 6 14 - 2 1015 10 01-13-11 Mr. Matthias Barvye..... 3 50 30 5 2 4 7 3 10 6 50 15 01-09-11 Widow Cartwright....... 4 30 50 2 - - 14 3 4 - - 01-03-09 CaptWm Laurence...... 2 20 50 -1 - 22 5 - 4 10 - 00-19-09 MrElyas Doughty....... 3 30 20 - - 4 8 6 20 0 00-19-06 John HincmnaL.....,.... 1 22 5 3- - 2 8 8 9 3 3 40 00-19-03 John Bowrne.....3.....30 30 1 2 1 4 8 1 5 6 35 01-04-01 icolas parcell 1...12 208 - 3 2 30 00-10-06 Dad Roe.............. i 20 15 - 4 6 5 3 7 2 20 00-15-03 Docter Taylor........... - 20 115 2 - 2 8 2 - 00- 10-11 Samuel! Thorne......... 1 12 101 - - 4 8 4 3 1 12 00-14-02 John Thorne............<. 5010 -- - 7 2 2 - 10 00-09-10 M13orris Smith.......... I 30 10 2 - 4 6 2 3 8 00-13-09 ony Feild.... 1 30 20 2 -— 43 6 008-1-0,Tames Whiticker.......... 16 - 1- - 5 - 6 - 00-08-04 E 1war.dG reffens........ 1 20 10 1 2 2 2 5 1 41 3 I 00-12-09 hn L, aurence...... 1 12 10 - 5 2 4 00-07-05 Richaril Stockton......... 1 0- - - 4 4 2 4 20 00-12-1ii William Noble.......... 1 28 25 2 - 2 3 2 2 30 00-14-04 joha Adams............ 25 1 — 1 3 1 201 00-11-08 5 B206~110 Wowter Gilbertson... - 18 10 2 - 2 3 3 3 4 1 6 25 00-1-0 Charles Morgan....... 2 9 - - 1 - 00-00 John T,"arston.......... - 31 3 2 2 2 3 - 0- -0 Mar-rett Styles.......... 6 75 - 400-06-04 Ffracis Burtoe.... 1 3 2 -0-03 Jova Wright,...., 12 - -25 1 2 2 O 00-07-05 John Geiloe... 6 - 2 3 1- 3 3 10 00-06-08 Thomas Ford........ 4 - 2 1 2 00-02-09 john hopper....... 4 - 2 4 5 00-03-07 Samr~uel 1oytot!...6. 11165 2 - 3 1 1 18 00-08-09 Miadalin Lodew......... 8 - 2 2 1 00 00-02-10 IH uh Coppethu... 2.... 12- 0 6 00-06-03 o Ja~mes Clement t....... 12 4 4 1 4 5 00-09-n1 Jasper Smith...............8. 2 - - 2 - 3 00-0-04 Edward Greein........ -1 - - - 00-0-06 iichd Wieday.,. o...!7 5 -- - I2 2 3 00-05-04 Jno: Greffin............. - 2 110 - -. 00-02-11 Riche. Tindalle......... 10 0 - - 4 2 2 2 00-04-10 John Embree............ 4 10 - -- -i 2 2 -00 — 0-7'Wm HTea.iland.......... -2 10 6 2 3 2 ~ 00-08-09 JosephThorne.......... - 10 15 1 2 4 - - 6 00-0 00 Jno Farrington.......... - 10 0 2 4 0- 2 5 00-07-01 Dennis HolIdron........ - 53 0 I- - 0 i - -1 aon Tho: Farringtor......... -- - -..0-04-! Aron Cornelius.... 6 - 2 - 1 - 00-06-0 /armanus Kisng.....,... - - 5 1!- 00-04-03 Jno. Harrison......!- - - - - 00-03-04 _ RATE LIST, &c.-(CONTINUED.) j;/ _ _ _,.-. -s.-, ".0000 - i o 0 I - 1 - I 0- I._^ ". 0 _.. ~ -._ r? 4 ^y v.prrintoR.......... 7 - 10 1 - 00-04-02 h i,. Hedges............ -.81 2 - -5 1 2 6 _00-09-09 Jn. T erry........ 1 5 1 3 2 - 4: 00-07-00 ra s Colley.......,..,. - 5 - - - - 3 -| 00-04-02 ho: auns.......... - 12 - - - - 4 - 3 2 00-06-00 > Tho: Kemsey.......... - 4 - 2 - - - - 2 -- - 3 - 00-04-11 Daniell patri............ 6 - 1 - I- - 1 - - 2 2 2 - 00-03-09 Wrl Warde............. - I - 2 - j 000 00 n. FeildC............. 5 | 2 2 1 4 - 00-0O-0.Joseph Hedges.. - 3 - 00-03-00 ~;26-15-10 Errors Excepted p J. C. A LIST OF THE TOWNE ESTATE OF JEMAICA. Anno 1683. S ~ ^ & P~, cd estates Capt Carpentor................ 2 1 0 0 2 5 4 3 3 1 52 2 186-00-00 John Rodes sen................. 0 0 0 4 2 5 2 2 0 40 1 120-00-00 Thomas Smith sen.............1 0 2 3 3 3 2 2 45 2 145-00-00 Jonathan Deine................. 1 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 18 1 58-00-00 John Everint.................... 2 0 0 0 0 3 1 4 2 0130 104-00-00 0 Joseph Smith.............. 2 ( 00 4 4 4 2 2 0 42 2 170-00-00 ^ Thomas Bayles............1 0..... 0 0 4 5 0 2 1 1 33 1 119-00-00 Th as Wigens iun.............. 0 0 0 0 2 0 1 1 0 8 0 022-00-00 John Wigens..............,..... 0 0 0 0 2 1 0 0 1 0 0 1 036-00-00 Gioshan Wigens................ 0 0 0 1 11 0 0 0 0 0 1 041-00-00 ard Higbee................. 0 0 0 0 3 2 2 2 1 30 1 092-00-00 Joseph Thurston................. 3 0 0 0 2 3 1 5 -1 1 46 2 164-00-00 Wiljliam iFoster............... 2 0 0 0 0 4 2 2 4 0 35 1 116-00-00 Samuell Smith.......... 2 0 0 O 6 6 2 3 3 0150 3 204-00-00 Nicholas Everit................. 1. 0 o 4 4 4 2 50 2 176-00-00 Daniel Whithed................. 2 i 0 0 6 2 3 1 2 45 1i8-00-00 leme Salho-n..,..,... O2 0 0 0 0 0 10 I 033-00-00 illiam T Creed......... 4 61 3 0 0 0i 0 0 0 -00-00 Peter Stringham., M 0 01 0' 0 31 1 0 0 0 9-2 I 06100-00 ^ Ben um doen............... I..0 0 0 0 4 1 I 0 27i 1 7 085-00-00, RATE LIST, &c —(CONTINUED.m) g ~ ~ ~.IS | ~ ~ ~ -l i 1 k~83, esta^tes ______ ^p ~ cO Ca r-l o -C -C, Samuell Messenger..............0 0 0 1 3 1 0 2 0 10 1!080-00-00 Nathaniell Lynas,..........,.. 0 0 0 0 0 1 4 0 1 0 10 01 032-10-00 John Oldfield............0 0 0 0 4 4 0 2 2 0 36' 2 124-00-00 George Woolsey iun............ 0 0 0 0 4 6 0 1 0 0 25 0 8-10-00 John Man...................... 2 0 0 O0 3 0 4 2 1 2 2 11-00-00 Sm Mathews...........,.,,, 1 0 0 0 2 4 3 2 | 2 2 24 1 108-00-00 Jolhn Foster......,,...,,., O I 0 0 0 1 2 0 0 0 8 1 047-00-00 Jane Foster................ 0 0 0 0 2 1 4 3 2 2 0 066-00-00 Richard Jones...,....,,......4 0 0 0 0 03 0 0 07-00-00 14o Jonathan Mills.......... 2.. 2 0 0 2 6 1 33 3 3 16 119-00-00 Jonathan Wood..,......... 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 018-00-00 Jonas Wood.....,............. 0 0 0 2 0 4 0 0 5 i 051-00-00 John Wood................ I 0 0 00 0 2 0 1 1 0 i 1 55-00-00 Elias Bayles.................... 0 0 0 2 2 2 1 0 4 0 040-10-00 John Smithes............, 0 0 0 1 2 1 1 3 0 8 1 065-00-00 Samuell Denton......,,........ 0 0 0 0 2 4 1 1 1 0 6 1 064-00-00 Alexander Smith.............. O 0 0 0 0 2 0 2 1 0 13 1 047-00-00 Zachariah Mills....1....0.... I 0 0 0 2 2 2 1 1 0 19 1 083-00-00 Abell Galle.........,........... 2 0 020 2 4 2 3 0 6 21 1 098-10-00 Fulke Davis,....,....,.... 0 0 2 0 0 2 0 8 1039-00-00 Samunell Davis...... i0 0 0 0 3 0 2 0 1 11 1 050-00-00 John H1indes......... o..0 0 0 0 1 1 1 0 1 6 1 048-00-00 Richard Denton.......,..... 2 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 042-00-00 Nehemiah Smith...........,.. 1 0 0 0 4 4 3 2 1 0 22 1 116-00-00 IL 0 0 0~~~ 0 4 4 0836 I 1-0oo-0o Wait Smith......... 36 1.0-00-.0 Jon S.mithrows................. 1 1 0 0 310 2 1 1 26 1 I 8-00-00 John Jos. Ludly.......... j 1 0 0 6 312 3 1 0 30 2 1 54-0 0-00 John Carpenter.................. 1 0 0 0 2 2 2 1 3 2 0 078-00-00 Sa0muell Mils.,,,.......... 1 0 0 204 2 0o 2 30 | i I03-0-0 NathDentoniu..,...0 0 0 2 3 2 i 3f 0 15' 087-00-00 0 O ~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~3 G, 34 1 3 9-e'0 Sam Deine rSen. 2.e...... 2 0 0 4 6 0 241 139-00-00 e Sam Deine Jun..........O....I0 0 0 0 0 0 0 J 0 4 1 022-00-00 John D cine..............,...... 1 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 O 51 > 040-00-00 Nath Denton sen......,.,. 2 0 0 0 4 6 0 1 0 5 53-00-00 George Mills................. 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 1 0 0 4 1 034-10-00 George Woolsey sen........ 2 0 0 0 4 6 2 4 0 0 36 2 168-00-C0 Widow Ashman...O............, 1 00 4 3 0 0 2 0 21 0 075-00-00 John Rowlisson 0 16 210 -00 1 0 0 0 4 0 3 310 1 6 2K104-00-00 and Frederick Thomas Wellin.,......... 00 0 0 05 0 3 21 0 30 0 065-10-00 John Bayles.................... 2 0 0 0 0 33 81 0 22 1 098-10-00 Sam Ruscoe...,.......,,... 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 01 0 16 1 044-00-00 John Hanson......,......,.,,.. 0 0 0 0 0 8 2 6 3 1 14 2 118-00-00 Derick Powleson......., 2 0 0 02 0 6 0 3 4 0 22 1 107-0-00 Cornelius Barnson.........,.... 1 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 10 1 050-00-00 Rich Everit..........,,..,. 1 0 K 0 0 o 0 0 0 0 10 0 022-00-00 rHugh Forde O: 0: 1 10OOf 0 0 0 O 0 0 0 0 1030-00-00 2 RATE LIST, &C.-(CONTINUED.) g -=jIIICI-~I —— I -- T = ___________ Anno 1683.~ ettea CIAnnol683. ed~i" l ) g S' estates. 0 o~~~~0 M.0 c? (M ~- 0 0u O C -i o - Thomas Smith iun................ 0 0 0 0 1 2 0 0 0 0 9 1 043-00-00 William Bringscel.............. 1 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 1 0 3 1 044-10-00 Edw Burrows................... 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 1 1 0 5 1 032-00-00 Caleb Carman................. 1 0 0 0 6 5 0 4 0 0 19 2 198-00-00 John Rodes iun.................. 2 0 0 0 0 3 2 1 1 1 9 1 079-00-00 Tho Foster.................... 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 1 0 0 0 1 032-10-00 John Carman.................. 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 1 028-00-00 Tho Woolsey................ 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 10 1 040-00-00 John Freeman.............. 2 0 1 0 0 3 4 1 1 1 6 1 089-00-00 Beniamin Jones......... I 0 0 1 2 1 0 0 0 2 6 1 058-00-00 William White.................. 1 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 3 1 038-00-00 Hope Carpentor................ 0 0 0 2 1 0 1 1 0 4 1 055-00-00 Randolph Evans........... 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 9 0 009-00-00 Barnet Caterlin............... 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 018-00-00 John Foster................. 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 4 0 0 0 1 046-00-00 Jerem Hubard................ 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 6 1 034-00-00 DanielDenton.................. 2 0 01 0 0 0 2 1 0 0 1 0 0 1 056-00-00 AN ACCOUNT OF YE VALLVATION OF THE ESTATES OF THEE INHABBITANTS OF Y TOWNE OF IHAMPSTED ON LONG ISLAND: IS AS FOLLOWETH OCTOBER 11TH: 683. The Names of the Inhabbitants | I cd r~ ^ g o ~ ~ o = a. ~ John Sinith blew..................... 30 06 0 03 03 i 03 02 00 01 00 00 00 John Carman.................../... 2 80 10 07 07 i OS 0 0 02 00 00 00 Widdow Cearl....................... 2 66 06 08 04 03 04 03 08 02 00 00 00 Richard Tottne.......... 1 00 02 07 02 04 02 00 10 01 00 00 00 0 John Jackson........................ 3 130 14 330 16 14 14 20 03 10 00 00 00 John Smith Showrn............. 00 00 00 02 00 01 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 Capt. John Ceeman.................... 02266 14 16 07 08 05 12 70 07 00 02 03 John Ceemans Junior............... 01 28 04 04 02 04 02 00 00 01 00 00 00 Joseph Ballding....................... 0 30 04 06 03 00300 0000 Thomas Ireland........................ 01 18 00 02 00 01 01 00 00 01 0000 00 Hendrick Dezbrough............. 02 50 00 05 00 01 00 00 00 04 0000 00 hn E].isson: Senior................. 01 30 02 02 00 00 02 00 01 00 00 00 Thomas Ellisson Senior............... 01 30 04 04 00 03 02 01 00 01 00 00 00 John Carman Junior.................... 01 00 02 04 03 02 02 00 00 00 00 00 00 Caleb Carman.............. 01 00 02 I 04 01 01 00 00 00 00 i 0 00 00 Joseph Pettit.......................... 00 000 0 03 00 101 00 04 00 00 0 0 00 0 0 ames Pine................. 03 4008 08,04 03 05 04 20 02 00 0 0 AWiiiam Thickstone.................... 02 23 04 02 02 02 i 0 1 I 00 02 100 00 00 Daniel Beagle..................... 01 9 9 04 04 00 0 03 03 2 12 02 0 000 0 020 VALUATION OF THE ESTATES, &c.-(CONTINUEDL.)g 1Ii-jm~ ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ci jCCI. ) C ~~-r~~L —------------- ~- -----— U —L —------- -- ~~~~~~~~ --- — 71 —- -~ ~-_. —-._ — -.. ) CCC The Names of the Inhabbitantis | | | |t ________________-___ __j _ q_ L', 0 0~j~ A _-_ _JLJ _J Josias Starr......,...,.,.... 01 00 04 05 00 02 04 01 00 02 00 oO 00 Jeremiah Wood............,,,...... 01 36 03 05 03 02 04 00 00 01 00 00 00 Jonas Wood.................. 01 00 01 00 02 01 00 00 10 0 00 00 00 Harnie-i fflowver,......,,,......... 01 00 04 03 03 02 04 00 00 010 0i 00 00 James Mott.................,. 01 14 04 05 02 03 03 02 00 01 0<0 0 00 Richard Gvildersleiff Junr............. 00 12 02 02 01 00 02 02 00 2 00 00O 00 Rolert Beagle Senr................ 01 00 00 03 00 00 00 00 03 00 0G 00 00 Robert Beagle Junr'................. 01 23 04 03 02 00 01 00 01 00 00 00O Mathew Beagle..............o...,... 01 00. 04 06 04 02 04 00 CO 02 00 00 DO Richd. Guildersleiff Ser'.........o..... 02 50 08 07 05 09 02 04 13 03 00 C 00 00 George HIicks.,,.................. 01 00 00 00 I 0000 00 00 00 00 I 01. 00 Abraham frost........................ 01 25 00 04 00 00 03 00 00 02 000 0C 00 Petter Johnson..............,....... 02 00 00 02 00 01 02 00 00 01 00 00 00 Jeremiah Wood jur............... 01 08 04 04 01 02 02 02 03 02 00 00 00 John Saring........................... 01 05 08 08 05 02 03 08 16 00 00 00 00 Joseph Jennings........................ 01 15 04 05 00 04 04 07 12 04 00 00 00 Thomas Suthard...................... 02 25 06 08 02 05 03 07 20 03 00 01 00 Joseph Smith....................... 01 01 04 07 06 05 05 02 00 02 00 00 00 Richd Vallentine Ser..,.........,.....I. 01 34 06 08 02 02 04 01 12 02 00 00 00 Harman Johnson...,.....,.......,,.. 01 02 00 02 01 00 01 00 00 00 i 00 00 00 Timothy ifalsted................. 01 30 04 08 04 05 02 08 01 0000 00 William Johnson....,...,.... 01 2 00 00 03 00 00 00 00 01 00 00 00 George Heulitt.................. 01 28 07 07 I0307 04 20 00 01 00 00 00 Jonathan Smith Rox.............. 00 23 06 10 0 06 0 1 00 02 00 00 00 John Smith Rox: Se............. 01 50 06 09 05 06 06 12 16 01 0 00 00 John Mott............. o.......... 01 00 02 03 04 05 03 03 00 02 00 00 00 Ellias & Jno. Burling............... 02 00 00 01 00 0 00 00 0 1 00 00 00 William Smith.................... 01 25 02 04 00 03 02 04 04 02 01 00 00 Hendrick Johnson,............... 0 12 00 02 00 00 02 01 00 02 00 00 00 JohnAlln.......... 01i 05 00 02 0000 00 02 - [= Josep Mott.......,............... 1 020102 01 Josep Mott 0.=1 02 01 102 011 = =01 Edmond Titus............. 01 29 04 08 02 03 04 000 20 01 00 00 00 Abraham Smith.....,........... 00 14 02 05 00 02 06 04 00 04 00 02 01 Hope Williss.................... 00 16 01 05 0202 04 000 00 00 00 00 00 Thomas Cheessman................ 01 00 00 02 01 02 02 00 00 01 00 00 00 Jonas Vallentine.............. 0 00 00 00 02 0201 00 00 00 00 00 John Hauckins..,,............... 01 12 00 05 00 00 000 0 1 01 00 00 00 Mordeika Bedient,....e,............. 1 04 00o 01 00 0 00 00 000 0 0 00 Joseph Sutton...................... 00 16 02 01 00 00 00 00 00 01 00 00 00 John Oackissam............ 00 25 02 02 00 00 03 00 00 00 00 00 00 John Bates.......................... 01 00 00 00 00 0 0 00 0 02 00 00 00 Jonathan Borge..................... 01 00 0 02 00 00 00 00 0 00 00 00 00 SamuellAllin............. 01 I 10 02 03 00 2 02 00 00 02 00 00 00 Thomas Daniell................ 01 02 00 0002 00 00 00 01 00 00 00 John Ehubbs................01 0 40404 01 02 01 01 00 01 00 00 00 Mr. John Inians 000 10 02 04 0000 0 0000 01 00 00 00 Thomass: Hutchinss...... 01 10 \ 00 01 0002 00 00 0000 0 0! 00 O VALUATION OF THE ESTATES, &c.-(CONTINUED.) Cd~~~~0 11) - Job Smith.................. 01 13 04 04 01 00 00 00 00 00 00 14 00 092 00 00 Adam Smith.....,...... 01 09 06 03 00 00 01 05 00 00 00 08 00 147 10 00 San Smith................ 01 15 4 0 04 0 03 04 00 00 00 25 00 158 1000 0 Daniell Smith.............. 01 12 1 05 04 00 00 00 0 000 3 00 14 o00 0O 00 00 1340 which at ld p pound amounts to ye sum of 05 10 08 Endorsed; The Estimation off Smiths Towne."..d VALTJACON OF THE RATABLE ESTATE BELONGING TO BROOKEHAVEN ANNO 1683S 4 0 | ja ~.r... 5 0 a Pe1 4 Whiteaire. 0 0 1 2 5 0 1 1 0 18 SamllTyrell......................... 1 3 1 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 3 Thomas Helme.................. 1 7 4 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 5 John Thomas................... 1 4 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 1 Richard Hulse.............. 2 2 1 0 0 0 2 2 0 2 2 0 0 Will Sallyer...................... 1 11 2 0 0 0 0 3 0 0 1 0 0 Tho: Biggs Jun..................... 1 32 1 0 0 1 4 7 4 3 2 0 7 Jo.21 0 00 1 00 0 0 Jacob Longbottom..................... 20 2 0 0 1 4 3 2 1 2 0 15 John Biggs........................... 1 12 1 0 0 0 3 2 0 0 0 0 1 ObedSayward........................ 3 12 4 0 0 0 4 3 2 2 2 3 3 Samra Akerly...1............0...... 2 ) 0 1 An th Tompson................... 0 0 0... 1 0 0 0 3 Wilim Jayne................. 1 1 0 0 2 0 6 Jno Tooker Jumr,....................... 1 50 3 2 1 0 0 Thomas Smith...................... 1 14 3 0 0 0 2 0 2 6 Benj Smith 22 1 0......... 0 0.............. 2 0 12 Joh nSmith.............. 1 7 1. 0. 0 0 0 1 0 0 6 Jno IBesswick...... 1 1 0.. 0 4 0 1 0 0 Robt Godusbury...... a.... ( - 1 8 4 O O O O O 1 John Roe...................... 1.30 1 0 0 0 2 4 2 2 2 0 5 Andrew Gib........................ 1 6 2 1 0 0 2 2 0 0 1 0 0 Nat. Norton.,..... es............ a 20 2 0 0 1 2 4 3 3 2 0 5 Willm Satterly............12. 3. 20 2 0 1 1 2 5 2 1 3 9 Saml Dayton...................... 1 6 5 0 0 0 2 4 1 1 0 Andrew Miller.... o................ 2 20 6 0 0 0 2 3 2 2 3 0 9 Zack: Hawkins. e...................... 2 24 4 0 1 4 5 3 1 5 O 20 John Mosier..... o...............1 6 1 0 0 0 2 2 2 0 1 0 3 Michaell Lane...................... 2 23 1 0 0 0 2 0 1 0 2 Walter Jones..... e......... 1 3 1 O O O Henry Rogers............. 13 1 0 0 0 0 2 0 2 0 0 1 John Wood........ 0......o.. 1 10 5 0 2 3 0 0 1 0 1 George Wood 1..10 0e 1 0. 1 0. 0 1 0 0 Richd Clarke.,..o,...,... 1 4 2 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 1 0 0 John Wade.....e e. o 0.. 1 1 O O O O 0 0 0 0 0 0 John Toker senr............ 2 3 6 0 0 4 4 5 4 5 0 17 Tho: Briggs senr.......... 0 4 3 0 0 2 0 6 Benja Gould..... 1 0 2 0 0 0 0 3 0 1 0 0 7 Abra Dayton.. e......... 2 4 3 0 0 2 2 0 0 0 0 4 Jonat Rose............ 1 3 8 0 0 0 2 6 2 0 2 8 Joseph Davis......... e............ 1 30 1 1 0 2 2 1 2 1 Richd Waring.............. o....... 2 30 2 2 0 2 3 1 O 2 2 1 John Jennons....................... 2 15 0 0 0 2 2 2 2 1 2 Thomas Jennons..1-0 02...1 0.00...0....... 1 0 0 -0 O 2 0 Dennes MIorphew,.,......,...,.. 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 VALUATION OF THE RATABLE ESTATE, &c.-(CONTINUED.)',, Is I s:s |. a _, 1 _ __, 1 I" I_ Jno~ LLawrence...O....,.,.1 0 0 0* 0 0 0 0 0 I k i I ho Joseph Longbottome................. 1 36 4 t0 0 4 5 0 0 0 0 20 Ralph Dayton................. 1 5 1 0 0 2 3 0 1 0 2 John Tomson....................* 2 26 4 1 2 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 3 John Comes.................... 0 2 1 06 11 0 0 Richard ffloyd,,..........,.. l... 2 94 10 00 01 00 02 06 06 00 00 15 33 62 742 112 04~ 8 07 75 133 46 38 51 23 1264 ~20: 19: 8d' LONG ISLAND, 535 THE ESTEMATION OF SOUTHOLD FOR YE YEAR 1683 STEPHEN BAILEY CCNSTABLE. THOMAS MOOR SINR BENJAMEN YOUNGS JONATHAN HORTON THOMAS MAPPS JUNR OVERSEERS. ~ s d ~ sd Mr John Budd...e. 350.00.00 John Reevs a.,. o. 076.000 Jarimiah Vaell Senr. 074.00.00 Daniell Terry..,.., 141.00.00 John Paine Junr.,. 040.00.00 Petter Dickeson..., 121.00.00 Jasper Griffing..... 111.00.00 Thomas Dickeson.,. 083.00.00 Henry Case. o..... 035.00.00 Joseph Reevs.,... 065.00.00 Lott Jonsone....., 019.00.00 Nathaniell Ferry.... 073.00.00 Simon Grouer...... 073.00.00 Willm Wells..... 085.00.00 Nathaniel moore.... 046.00.00 Josiah Wells..... 081;00.00 Thomas moore Senr. 049.00.00 Samuell Winds..,.. 082.00.00 Joseph Youngs..... 098.00.00 Simion benjemen.. 117.00.00 Samuell Youngs.... 084.00.60 Garsham Terry...... 084.00.00 Petter Paine....... 056.00.00 John Goldsmith..., 121..000 Christopher Youngs. 080.00.00 Thomas mapes Junr. 128.00.00 Stephen Bailey.,... 103.00.00 Caleb Horton...... 350.00.00 John Bailey....... 018.00.00 Benjamen Horton.. 267.00.00 JohnYoungs mariner 058.00.00 Willm Colman.... 078.00.00 Benjamin Youngs... 123.00.00 Willm Reeves...... 100.00.00 John Salmon...... 041.00.00 Thomas Tuston..... 066.00.00 Mr John Booth...., 131.00.00 Theophilus Curwin. 084.00.00 John Carwine...... 131.06.08 Thomas Mapps Senr. 244.00.00 Thomas Prickman., 042 00.00 Janes Reevs...... 228.00.00 Jonathan Horton.... 440.13 04 Thomas Terrill..... 105.00.00 Richard Benjamen.. 133.00.00 Petter Haldriag.... 040.0.00 Benjamin Moore.... 080.10.00 Thomas: Osman.... 228 00.00 Jarimiah Vaell Jeur. 103.00.00 John Osman....... 050.00.00 John Hallock...... 080.00.00 Willm Haliock.:.. 236.00.00 Abraham Corey.... 076.00.00 Thomas Haliock.... 081.00.00 Ann Elton.,.,..., 077.00.00 John Swazey....... 202.00.00 Josuah Horton..... 173.00.00 Joseph Swazey...., 099.00.00 Isaac Ouenton..,. 100.10.00 John Frankling... 033.00.00 Barnibus Winds.... 122.00.00 Thomas Ridder...., 166.00.00 Jacob Corey....,. 092.00.00 Jacob Conkling.... 101.00.00 Theopulos Case..... 109.00.00 John Hopson....... 083.00.00 Ye Widdow Terry.. 097.00.00 Joln Conkling. e.. 321.00.00 536 RATE LISTS OF Willm Hopkins.., 046.00.00 Edward Peatty..., 062.00.00 John Rackett..... 057.00.00 John Lorring...... 076.00.00 Jonathan Moore.., 202.00.00 Samuell Glouer... 104.00.00 John Young Junre,, 225..0.00 Calob Curtis....... 108.00.00 Christopher Youngs. 044.00.00 Cornilious Paine.... 081.00.00 Timothy Martin... 057.00.00 Richard howell..... 098.00.00 John Wiggins....,. 068.00.00 Thomas booth...... 045.00.00 Thomas Moore Junr. 137.00.00 John Liman....... 018.00.00 Richard BrownSenr Ebine Dauice...... 030.00.00 Richard B3rown Junr, 386.00.00 Richard Edgcomb.. 018.00.00 Jonathan Brown John Booth Juner'.. 018.00.00 John Tutoll Senr.. 239.00.00 Jonathan Reeves... 030.00.00 John Tutoll Junr.,, 099.00.00 ye totall Sume is.. 10819.00.00 Samuell King...... 150.00.00 pr Stephen Bayley town clerk Abraham Whitter... 180.00.00 Endorsed Thomas terry.... 139.00.00 So hold the Esteemation for Gidion Youngs... 173.00.00 ye year 1683 John Paine Senr....94.00.00 THE ESTEMATE OF THE TOWNE OF SOUTHAMPTON FOR THE YEAR 1683. No. of Poles. No. of Poles. 0 Widdow Hannah 1 Joseph Post..... 062 03 04 Howell....,.... 267 00 00 1 Simon Hillyard... 023 00 00 3 John Annings.... 088 10 00 1 Benjamin Hand.. 086 00 00 3 Captn John Howell 442 10 00 1 Thomas Rose.., 047 10 00 2 Lieft Joseph Ford- 1 John Burnett.... 056 06 08 ham........., 459 10 00 1 Joseph More.... 083 00 00 3 Thomas Halsey. 411 ]6 08 2 Willm Hakelton.. 041 00 00 5 Edward Howell.. 400 00 00 1 Thomas Burnett.. 119 06 08 2 Peregrine Stan- 1 Mr Phillips...... 164 06 08 brough....... e320 16 08 0 Mrs Mary Taylor 2 Job Sayre..... 164 10 00 Widdow........ 064 13 04 1 James Topping., 249 06 08 2 Francis Sayre.... 178 00 00 1 Benjamin Palmer. 089 00 00 2 Isaac Halsey..... 345 00 00 1 Josiah Stanbron.,. 130 00 00 3 JohnJessup...... 360 06 08 3 John Davess.,,. 140 00 00 2 Henry Ludlam.... 203 13 04 2 John Rose..,.. o, 133 00 00 1 Lott Burnett..... 100 00 00 LONG ISLAND. 637 Noo of Poleso No. of Poles. 1 James Hildreth.,, 030 00 00 2 Joshua Barnes and I Ezekiell Sandford. 060 00 00 Sam.....,,... 232 13 04 1 Peter Norris...... 051 00 00 2 John Jagger...... 289 10 00 I Robert Norriss.... 052 00 00 2 Thomas Cooper e. 209 06 08 2 Joseph Marshall., 058 00 00 1 Widow Martha 1 John Rainor...... 094 00 00 Cooke...... e.. 194 13 04 1 John Jennings.... 129 10 00 2 John Foster...... 178 06 08 I Isaac Rainer...... 064 00 00 1 John Lawrison.,, 254 00 00 1 James White.... 092 16 08 1 John Howell Junr. 121 10 00 1 John Lupton.,,. 067 00 00 1 John Earle...., 046 00 00 1 Widdow Mary 1 Christo: Foster.,, 074 00 00 Rainer......... 166 00 00 2 Richard Post... 100 06 08 1 Benony Newton., 067 00 00 1 Abraham Howell. 043 00 00 1 Samuell Mills.... 032 00 00 1 John Post...... 169 13 04 1 Samuell Lum.... 076 00 00 1 David Brigs...... 040 00 00 i Edmond Clarke. 056 10 00 1 Samuell Clarke: 2 Widdow Sarah old towne..,,.. 059 10 00 Cooper.,.. 337 06 08 1 David Howell.... 077 00 00 I Obadiah Roggers I Obadia Roggers 1 Josiah Laughton.. 024 00 00 Junr.......... 0520000 3 Tho: Travaly... 229 10 0 1 Ben: Davess.... 107 06 08 3 Tho: Travally... 229 10 00. 030 00 00 1 Nathanll Short.... 030 00 00 1 Mr Jonah Fordham 081 13 04 1 Thomas Steephens 080 00 00 1 Thomas Steephens 080 00 00 1 Josiah Halsey...., 125 13 04 J.'Cbistoe" L m * T1 Gersham Culver.. 098 06 08 I Christopher Learn] ing h.i h,...,. 053 13 04:1 Thomas Goodwin. 030 00 00 ing Jonaan erno r.. 03 13 04 1 Jonathan Rainor.. 197 03 04 1 Isaac Cory...... 148 03 04 3 Daniell Sayre.... 207 03 042 John Bishop Jlmr. 055 13 04 0 Joseph Sayre e.... 023 00 00 2 Samuell Johnes.... 249 16 08 1 Benjamin Pierson. 051 06 08 1 Abraham Willman 054 10 00 I John Laughton... 098 06 081 Henry Peirson... 136 10 00 3 Charles Sturmey.. 198 10 00 1 Samuell Clarke No: 2 Joseph Foster.,. 138 0304 Sea........... 113 00 00 1 Obadiah Roggers.. 200 16 08 1 John Woodroufe.. 160 00 00 1 Joseph Peirson.... 127 06 08 2 Elnathan Topping 275 00 00 1 Isaac Mills...... 089 03 04 3 John Bishop...... 214 10 00 2 SamuellWhitehead 053 00 00 1 Isaac Willman,, 187 10 00 1 Robert Wooly.... 118 00 00 1 Hanah Topping 1 Thomas Cooper Jun163 00 00 widow..,....... 180 00 00 538 RATE LISTS OE No. of Poles 1 Joseph Whitehead. 030 00 00 1 Humphrey Hughes 052 06 08 1 Samuell Cooper., 035 00 00 1 Thomas Reeves.. 101 00 00 IJosiahBarthallomewOl8 00 00 1 John Cooke..... 169 00 00 1 Onesipherus Stand1 John Mappein.... 112 13 04 ley........... 018 00 00 1 Shamger Hand.... 089 13 04 2 Abram Hauke... 060 00 00 1 John Else.... 030 06 08 1 Zachary Laurance. 018 00 00 1 Benony Flinte.... 060 00 00 1 Callob Carwithy.. 018 00 00 1 Joseph Hiledreth. 100 00 00 1 John Petty...... 030 00 00 1 John Carwithy f.. 040 00 00 1 Thomas Shaw Junr 018 00 00 2 Richard Howell., 250 00 001 Isaac Willman Jur 030 00 00 2 Thomas Shaw.. 060 00 00 0 Robert Kallem.,. 010 00 00 1 Edmond Howell.. 240 00 00 0 George Hethcote. 022 00 00 3 Xtopher Lupton.. 200 00 00 John Sanders..., 012 00 00 1 George Harriss... 137 00 00 1 John Wooley.... 018 00 00 1 Richard Howell 1 Edward White... 030 00 00' Junr........... 050 00 00 1 Jonat Hildreth... 030 00 00 1 John Morehouse.. 064 00 00 1 John Mouberry.. 030 0000 1 Willm Mason... 050 00 00 1 Mr Frencham.... 018 00 00 2 James Herrick.. 180 00 00_ __ 1 William Herrike.. 059 00 00 Sum totall is. 16328 06 08 3 Benjamin Foster.. 220 00 00 ZEROBABELL PYLLIPS Constab 1 Aron Burnett.... 037 00 00 JOHN JAGARR 0 Widow Fowler... 027 00 00 JOHN FOSTER 1 Benjamin Haines. 140 00 00 JONo HOWELL JunI Overseers 1 Mathew Howell.. 070 00 00 JOSEPH PEIRSON 1 ManassahKompton 018 00 00 Southampton Septr ye lst 1683 1 George Owen.... 023 00 00 A true copy of ye originall 1 Thirston Rainor,. 040 00 00 by mee i Mr William Barker 060 00 00 JON HOWtL Junr Clar4e I Willm Simpkins.. 040 00 00 Endorsed 1 Mr Henry Goreing 018 00 00 The Estemation of the Town I John Gould..... 040 00 00 of Southampton 1683 SEPTEMBER P1: 8TH 1683 THE ESTEMATE OF EASTHAMPTON. __________1 0 2 3 B 1 lb d CaptTalmage........... 4 20 8 12 10 1 6 9 5 1 2 0 6 44 362- 3-4 Thoosborne..............., 3 20 8 8 10 7 2 0 9 48 280-10-0 W nMulforde................ i2 16 2 4 4 3 4 0 0 0 01 2 26 106- 3-4 Tho: Mulford.........0 0 3 2 2 3 1 0 0 0 0 5 064- 3-4 r Baker................. 2 1 4 8 4 7 7 4 0 3 0 6 30 244-0-0 Tho Edwards. I..0.. 5 3 1 2 2 0 0 2 5 0 117-10-0 John parsons Sen.......... 1 12 0 2 2 0 2 21 0 0 0 0 12 079-0-0 Jere Conkling......... 3 28 4 8 8 7 8 2 0 0 0 4 35 247-3-4 phillip Leek..... 4 0 3 2 0 1 0 0 0 1 4 12 057-10-0 Nath: Bakerse........... 1 15 4 6 4 6 3 0 1 2 1 12 174-0-0 Joshua garlick.......... I1 9 4 3 3 0 22 2 0 0 0 1 14 110-13-4 capt loberts...,........ 2 10 0 4 1 0 0 1 1 0 1 1 3 095-0-0 Nath donceny............. 1 13 2 2 0 1 0 1 0 1 0 1 1 0 73-10-0 Johnparsnns............. 1 8 3 5 4 8 7 2 1 1 157-10-0 James DrinentI............ 13 6 8 4 4 6 210 0 0 6 24 180-0-0 Samu: parsons............. 2 13 2 5 3 4 6 5 2 1 0 3115 158-0-0 Wm lary............... 2 13 2 3 3 1 3 4 0 1 1 0112 155-0-0 John Whcllen.... 13 2 5 2 6 2 3s0 1 0 3 1 25 144- 6-S Enock fithian..,,,,,........ 1 6 1 4 21 3 1 0 0 0 010 2-16-8 John osborn 3......... 13 2 11 10 8 8i 2i 0 1 l0 2 21 251- -0 ESTIMATE OF EASTHAMPTON, &c.-(CONTINUED.) O _______ 32 1 3 2 11 Ilb S d James Hand.......,... 1 6 2 2 4 2 1 0 1 0 2 9 081- 0-0 Rich: Brook....,........ 2 15 2 5 0 3 3 1 0 1 1 2 120- 0-0 Mr Scellinger......... 3 16 6 7 2 2 6 5 0 1 0 0 54 246-0-0 ]Benia: Conkling.........e 1 12 0 5 3 6 4 2 1 3 1 5 17 148-13-4 John Miller se............. ] 1 13 4 4 4 4 4 1 1 1 0 0 28 140-13-4 Arthur Cresy.......... 1 2 0 2 3 1 1 0 0 0 1 2 7 053- 6-8 Ben: Osborne......,...... 2 20 4 4 2 9 4 1 1' 0 3 10 162-16-8 Wm Edwards,..... 1 24 3 5 8 1 2 0 1 8 0 180- 0-0 Joseph Osborne............ 1 6 3 1 3 0 0 0 6 082- 0-0 John Squire.o. 1 6 2 4 0 1 2 2 0 0 0 0 0 085-10-0 John Edwards......,,. 1 13 2 4 4 2 3 2 1 0 0 3 0 123-10-0 Ebene Leeke......,...,.. 1 2 2 00 1 0 1 0 063-10-0 James Looper.......... 1 6 0 2 0 0 2 0 0 0 2 8 062-13-4 Wm Perkins............... 1 13 6 5 8 7 8 4 0 0 3 37 216-16-8 Stephen Hand............... 2 13 4 5 4 5 4 2 0 0 0 2 48 174-10-0 Tho diment.,.......,,.... 1 6 0 2 2 4 4 1 0 0 0 3 9 076- 0-0 John Miller Ju........... 1 6 2 3 3 2 2 2 0 0 4 15 104- -0 Jere: Miller...1... 3 2. 3 1 2 0 0 0 2 5 087-13-4 Edward Joans......,. 1 31 2 1 0 3 1 0 055- 0-0 James Bird.. d.....1......... 1 3 0 2 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 2 047-13-4 John Stretton.......... 3 30 5 8 7 7 3 1 0 0 4 37 270-6-8 John Stretton Ju,.......... 1 10 2 5 5 5 6 2 1 0 0 4 35 154 3-4 Joseph Stretton,................ 1 6 3 7 3 1 0 1 15 100-0-0 Samuell Mulford.......... 20 2 6 3 4 4 2 1 1 3 15 148- 0-0 John Hoping..... 1 23 2 6 7 1 6 3 1 1 0 5 23 209- 3-4 John Feild....... 0 0 2 2 0 0 1 0 0 0 2 6 052-0-0 Stephen Hodges............. 1 20 6 13 14 5 5 0 0 0 5 23 301- 3 Anthony Kelley............ 1 0 0 0 0 0 10 0 0 030 -0 Oliuer Noris............ 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 023- 6-8 Edward Hare........... 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 042- 0-0 c Widow Shaw... 2 0 2 2 2 1 1 0 0 0 0 1 6 73- 0-0 Rchard Shaw.............. 1 8 0 1 2 3 0 1 0 1 081-0 l 0 ThoStretton............. 1 6 3 1 1 1 3 0 0 1 0 0 086-0-0 Wm Hambleton............ 1 2 0 0 1 0 0 042- 0-0 Samuell Shery...............1 7 2 4 0 0 0 3 10 102- 6-8 John Cerle............. 1 7 2 6 1 4 3 2 0 0 0 6 2 119-10-0 John Mulford.............. 2 20 8 10 10 8 7 2 1 0 0 8 58 283-16-8 Thomas Chatfield.......... 2 21 7 9 7 7 8 1 0 0 6 44 234-03-4 Nath Baker Ju.............. 1 4 2 4 1 3 3 1 0 0 12 118-0-0 Robert Daiton............ 2 26 4 7 6 7 6 6 0 0 1 4 32 261-3-4 Nath Bushup............. 2 13 4 7 4 5 3 3 0 0 2 30 189- 0-0 Rich: Strettona.......,....... 1 6 0 3 2 4 1 0 1 0 4 070-6-8 Tho Hand........... 1 8 4 5 2 2 2 0 0 1 2 16 121- 6-8 John Brook............. 16 0 3 2 3 3 1 0 0 0 4 6 087-0-0 Tho Bee 1 3 0 2 1 0 2 3 0 0 0 4 0 081-0-0 c Wm Miller......... 8 2 4 5 6 2 0 2 7 1 1748-3-4 ESTIMATE OF EASTHAMPTON, &xC-(CoNTINVKM) I S: It k I ) " ~3 W O 3 U Dst lb _ ____I ____ S 3 2 1,32 I _ 1geor Miller 1... 0 0 1 3 3 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 056- 0-0 Be-wlick Osborne,.......head and horse - - - - - - - - - - 030- 0-0 John Michell.....,., - --- -- i - - -030-0-0 Tho Chatfield Ju...........- -- - - _ _ _ 030- 0-0 Jacob Daiton....,..., - - - - --- - - 050- 0-0 The Totall is b075- 6-8 E Endorsed. East hamptons Estemationg 1683 MANUSCRIPTS orf irt William 3n neUon [PFrom the orig'inals on file in the Secretary of State's Dep't Albany.] MM/- ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ I -7, - J-0-~~~~~~~~~- i i~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ti - Hil,[ pid tc Ta' -n, Eb fi 1 \~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~1/4 MANUSCRIPTS OF SIR WILLIAM JOHNSON. 545 PROCEEDINGS OF COMMISSIONERS FROM 6 PROVINCES MET AT ALBANY ANNO 1754 ON INDIAN AFFAIRS. MASSACHUSETTS BAY. WILLIAM SHIRLEY Esqr Captain General and Governor in Chief [L s] in and over his Majesties Province of the Massachusetts Bay in New England. To Samuel Welles, John Chandler, Thomas Hutchinson, Oliver Partridge, and John Worthington Esqrs. Greeting WHEAREAS in pursuance of Letters from the Right Honourable the Lords Commissioners for Trade and the plantations dated the 28 of August & 19 of September 1753 to the Governor of several of his Majesties plantations in North America a General convention of Commissioners for their Respective Governments is appointed to be held at the City of Albany in the Month of June next for holding an Interview with the Indians of the Five Nations and making them presents on the part of the said Governments usual upon such occasions in order to confirm and Establish their antient attachment to his Majesty and their constant Friendship to his Majesties Subjects on this Continent. And whereas the great and General Court or Assembly of the Province of the Massachusetts Bay aforesaid. have elected and appointed you to represent and appear for the said Province at the Convention aforesaid for the purposes above mentioned; as also for entering into Articles of Union and Confederation with the aforesaid Governments for the General Defence of his Majesties Subjects and Interests in North America as well in time of Peace as in war. Now I do by these presents impower and Commissionate you the said Samuel Welles, John Chandler, Thomas Hutchinson, Oliver Partridge, and John Worthington as Commissioners (or any three of You) to appear for and represent the Province of the Massachusetts Bay aforesaid at the proposed,Convention of Commissioners, to be held at the City of Albany in the Month of June next then and there to concert, with the Commissioners (from all or any of his Majesties British Governments) that may be there convened, such Measures as may be judged proper for the Purposes aforesd and to agree upon the same; and VOL. II. 35 546 MANUSCRIPTS OF herein you must observe such Instructions as are herewith delivered you, or may from time to time be given you by the Great and General Court or Assembly of this Province. Given under my hand and the Publick Seal of the Province of the Massachusetts Bay aforesaid the nineteenth Day of April 1754 in the twenty Seventh Year of his Majestys Reign. W. SHERLEY By His Excellency's Command SAMUEL WELLES J. Willard Secry. &c JOHN CHANDLER A true copy Attat THOMAS HUTCHINSON OLR PARTRIDGE JOHN WORTHINGTON Province of George the Second by the Grace of God New Hampshire. of Great Britain France and Ireland King Defender of the Faith &c. [L s] To all to whom these Presents shall come Greeting WHEREAS we have Ordered a Sum of Money to be Issued for for Presents to the Six Nations of Indians and to direct our Governor of New York to hold an Interview with them for delivering those Presents, for Burying the Hatchet and for renewing the Covenant Chain, with them and inasmuch as the Attempts that have been made to withdraw them from our interest appear to us to make a General interview more Particularly Necessary at this time, and that all our Colonys whose Interest and Security is connected with, and depend upon those Indians should be present at, and join in such Interview Know Ye therefore That we reposing much trust and Confidence in the Integrity and Ability of the Honourable Theodore Atkinson Esqr. the Honoble Richard Wibird Esqr two of our Council of our said Province, The Honoble Meshech Weare Esqr Speaker of the General Assembly of our said Province, and Henry Scherbourn Junr Esqr. also a Member of our said General Assembly, have by and with the advice of our trusty and well beloved Benning Wentworth Esqr. our Governor and Commander in Chief SIR W ILLIAM JOHNSON. 547 of our Province of New Hampshire aforesaid, named, made, constituted, and appointed And we by these presents name, make, Constitute and Appoint the said Theodore Atkinson Esqr Richard Wibird Esqr. Mesech Weare Esqr. and Henry Sherburne Esqr. our true and undoubted Commissioners hereby giving unto them full power and Authority as well as our special Command to repair to our City of Albany, or other place where the said Interview may be held and carryed on, and there by the whole or the Major part of those of them that shall be present at the said Interview, for us; and in our name together with such other Commissioners as shall be Regularly appointed from our other Colonies and provinces in America to attend at the said Interview to agree upon consult and conclude what may be necessary for Establishing a sincer and lastly Friendship and good Harmony with the said Six Nations of Indians, and if necessary, for us and in our Name to sign everything so agreed upon and concluded, and to do, and transact all matters and things which may appertain to the finishing the abovesaid work. In Testimony whereof we have caused the Seal of our said Province of New Hampshire to be hereunto affixed Witness Benning Wentworth Esqr. Our Governor and Commander in Chief of our said Province of New Hampshire in New England this third Day of June 1754 and in the Twenty Seventh Year of our Reign. B. WENTWORTH By His Excellencys Command. THEODORE ATKINSON' Theodore Atkinson Secy R. WIBIRD Copy Exd per MESHECH WEARE HEN: SHERBURNE JU11r. CONNECTICUT (S$g.tlum Colonie THOMAS FITCH Esqr Governor and Commander Conecticut in Chief of his Majestys English Coloney of ences Connecticut in New England in America. To William Pitkin Roger Wolcot Junr & Elisha Williams Esquires Greeting. WHEREAS you are by the General Assembly of said Colony nominated and Appointed to be Commissioners in behalf of Said 548 MANUSCRIPTS OF Colony to meet such Commissioners as are or shall be appointed by his Majesty's other Governments in America, at a General Interview at Albany on the fourteenth day of June next and Join with them in concerting proper Measures for the General Defence and safety of his Majesties Subjects in said Governments and the Indians in Alliance with them against the French and their Indians. Therefore in pursuance of said Act of Assembly, you the said William Pitkin, Roger Wolcot Junr and Elisha Williams Esqrs are Commissioned Authorized and impowered in behalf of this his Majesties Colony of Connecticutt to meet the Commissioners appointed by his Majesties other Governments in America at Albany on the 14th day of June next, and in Concert with such Commissioners from his Majesties other Governments as shall lmoeet there to consult proper Measures for the General defence, and safety of his Majesty's Subjects in said Governments and the Indians in his Alliance against the French, and their Indians; and to use and pursue proper measures in pursuance of your Instructions from the said General Assembly, relateing to the matters aforesaid Given under my hand and the Publick Seal of the Colony of Connecticutt in Hartford this 30th day of May Anno Regni Regis Georgij 2di Magn: Brittain: &c 27mo Annoq. Domini 1754. THOMAS FITCH. By his honours Command. George Wyllys Secrety A true Copy Tests. WMi PITKIN, ROGER WOLCOT Junr ELISHA WILLIAMS. Commissioners. RHODE ISLAND By the Honourable William Green Esqr Governor Locus ( and Captain General of the English Colony of Sigilli Rhode Island and Providence Plantation in New England in America. To Stephen Hopkins, and Martin Howard Junr Esqr Greeting WHEREAS the General Assembly of this Colony have on their parts chosen and appointed you to meet with the Commissioners of the other Governments at Albany on the fourteenth day of this SIR WILLIAMf JOHNSON. 549 Instant June and join with them in a Treaty with the Six Nations of Indians in order to Secure the Interest of his Majesty and his good Subjects in those parts. I do therefore by Virtue of an act of the General Assembly of this Colony, authorise impower and Commissionate You the said Stephen Hopkins and Martin Howard Junr forthwith to repair to Albany aforesaid, and there in behalf of this Colony to meet and join with the other Commissioners in Consulting what Methods are proper to be used, to preserve the Friendship of the aforesaid Six Nations of Indians and their Attachments to the British Interest in America. and also what else may be necessary to prohibit the French and their Allies the Indians, from encroaching on the Lands within the Doninions of his Majesty. And in General as far as the Abilities of this Government will permit, to act in Conjunction with the said Commissioners in every thing necessary, for the good of his Majesties Subjects in those parts, and to Answer as far as we can the Designs of his Majesties Instructions to this Colony communicated to us, by the Earl of Holderness.IN TESTIMONY whereof I do hereunto set my hand and cause the Seal of the Colony aforesaid to be hereunto Affixed this Twelfth day of June, One Thousand Seven Hundred and fifty four, and in the twenty Seventh Year of the Reign of his most sacred Majesty GEORGE the Second by the Grace of God King of Great Britain &ca WILLIAM GREENE By his Honours Command Tho Ward Secr'y.-A true Copy Exd by STEPHEN HOPKINS MARTIN HOWARD Junr PENNSYLVANIA SS GEORGE the Second by the Grace of God of Great Britain France and Ireland King Defender of the faith and so forth. To our Trusty and wellbeloved John Penn; Richard Peters, Isaac Norris, and Benjamin Franklin of the City of Philadelphia Esquires Greeting. WHEREAS the Honoble James DeLancey Esqr Our Lieut Governor and Commander in Chief of o-ur Province of New-York has 650 MANUSCRIPTS OF received our Directions to hold an Interview with our loving and good Allies the Six United Nations of Indians at the City of Albany within our said Province for delivering to them our Presents and for renewing the Covenant Chain with them, and has fixed upon the fourteenth day of June Ensuing for this purpose, and it has been usual when an Interview has been held with these Indians for all his Majesties Colonies whose Interest and Security is connected with and depends upon them to join in such Interview, and it appears to us that the present disposition of those Indians and the attempts that Have been made to withdraw them from our Interest do make such a General Interview more particularly Necessary at this time, when the Subjects of the French King have actually marched into, and Erected Forts, and committed Hostilities within the known limits of our Dominions. KNow YE that reposing especial Trust and Confidence in your Loyalty, abilities and prudence WE have thought fit to nominate and Appoint you the said John Penn, Richard Peters, Isaac Norris, and Benjamin Franklin and every of you our Commissioners on behalf of our Governor of our Province of Pensylvania aforesaid in Conjunction with our Lieut Governor of New York and with the Commissioners of the other Governments to Treat with the Six united Nations of Indians at Albany, or with their, or any, or every, of their Chiefs or Delegates, and with them to renew, ratify and Confirm the Leagues of amity subsisting between us and the said Nations of Indians and to make them the presents that have been provided for them by the Governor and Assembly of our said Province of Pensylvania, and further to do, Act and Transact, and finally to Conclude and Agree with the Indians aforesaid, all and every other matter and thing which to you shall appear necessary for the Engageing them heartily in our Interest and for frustating any attempts which have been made to withdraw them from it,As fully and amply to all intents Constructions and purposes, as our Governor of our province of Pensylvania aforesaid might or could do, being personally present, hereby ratifying confirming and holding for firm and Effectual whatsoever you the said John Penn, Richard Peters Isaac Norris and Benjamin Franklin, or any of you shall Lawfully do, in and about the Premises- In Testimony SIR WILLIAM JOHNSONo 551 whereof we have Caused the Great Seal of our said Province to be hereunto Affixed. Witness JAMES HAMILTON Esqr (by Virtue of a Commission from Thomas Penn and Richard Penn Esqrs true and absolute Proprietors of the said province and with our Royal approbation) Lieut Governor and Commander in Chief of the Province aforesaid and Counties of New Castle, Kent and Sussex upon Delaware at philadelphia the thirteenth day of May in the Year of our Lord One Thousand Seven hundred and fifty four and in the twenty Seventh of our Reign A true Copy JAMES HAMILTON Exd Richard peters Is Norris B. Franklin MARYLAND WHEREAS his Majesty has been pleased to order a sum of Money to be issued for presents to the Six Nations of Indians and to direct his Governor of New York to hold an Interview with them for delivering those presents, for Burying the Hatchet and for renewing the Covenant Chain with them and whereas in Obedience to his Majesties pleasure signified to them by the Lords of Trade His Majesties Several Colonies on this Continent have resolved to join in such Interview and have made a Provision for sending each their Commissioner with such presents as have been usual on the like Occasions to the said Indian Nations as a means of securing more effectually their Affections to his Majesty and the Brittish Interest. Now in dutyfull Compliance with his Majesty's Requisition as well as from a Sense of the Importance it must be of to us and the several Neighbouring provinces that those Nations be retained in our Alliance more especially at this time when our Enimies are endeavouring to withdraw them from our Friendship; we have thought fit to Commission you Colo Benjamin Tasker and Major Abraham Barnes fully trusting in your known Abilities and approved Honour to represent this Province at the Interview appointed to be held at Albany the 14th of June next and then and there to renew the Covenant Chain and enter into a League 552 MANUSCRIPTS OF of Amity with the said Indian Nations and you shall deliver to them (with such Speeches as have been used on Sinilar Occasions) a present as from his Majesties dutyfull Subjects of this province of Maryland in Money or Goods as to you shall appear most proper to the value of Five Hundred Pounds Currant Money of this Province, which Money you will receive from the Treasurer of the Western Shore and for the better conducting yourselves in Regard to the manner and form of the Treaty to be entered into at Albany with the said Six Allied Nations. You shall refer yourselves for Directions To the Honoble James DeLancey Esqr his Majesty's Lieut Governor of New York. AND WHEREAS I have had intimation that the Commissioners from the several Neighbouring Colonies will receive Instructions from their respective Governments to concert Measures with the Commissrs from the other Provinces for the better Securing these Indians for the future in our Alliance and preventing their being Alienated from our Intrest by the Artifices or insinuations of our Enemy, as well as for the more easy defence of his Majesties Dominions on this Continent, You shall if any Propositions of that nature are made by the Commissioners in behalf of their Respective Governments let them know that this Province is also disposed to contribute to the Execution of any General Scheme to promote such desirable Ends, and you will take care to observe well what Propositions shall or may be made concerning such General Schemes and commit the Substance thereof to writing for my Information and to be laid before the General Assembly for their Consideration-But you are to understand that you are not impowered to Stipulate or engage that this Province will advance any sum of Money or number of Men towards erecting Forts or Garrissoning them, or to any such purposes. But you shall only well observe what proposals are made by the other Comrnissioners and endeavour to Learn how far the Execution of what they may propose can be Necessary or usefull, and consider well the Reasonableness of any such propositions and inform yourselves whether the other Commissioners are Authorized to Stipulate and agree thereon and at your return you shall inform me of these several Particulars and any other things that may Possibly occur SIR WILLIAM JOHNSON. 553 to your notice; That I may not be Ignorant after what manner we can best contribute to the success of any such Scheme as shall be proposed at the aforesaid Interview for the defence or utility of his Majesties Dominions and Subjects. Annapolis May 30th 1754 H1ORO SHARPE A true Copy Examined By Benja Tasker Junr A Barnes. Albany the 19th June I754 PROCEFJINGS of the Congress held at Albany by the Honobl James De Lancey Esqr aieut Governor and Commander in Chief of the Province of JV'ew York and the Commissioners of the Several provinces now met in this City. At a meeting in the Court House at Albany on Wednesday the 19 h June 1754. A M. PRESENT The Honoble the Lieutenant Govr of New York Joseph Murray William Johnson Samuel Welles John Chambers John Chandler William Smith Oliver Partridge Esqrs of His John Worthington Majesties Council Esqrs of this Province Commissioners for Massachusetts Bay Theodore Atkinson Richard Wibird William Pitkin Meshec Weare Roger Wolcott Henry Sherburn Junr Elisha Williams Esquires Esqrs Commissioners for His Commissioners for the Colony Majesties Province of Connecticutt of New Hampshire 554 MANUSCRIPTS OF Stephen Hopkins & John Penn Martin Howard Junr Richard Peters Esqrs Isaac Norris Commissioners for the Colony Benjamin Franklin of Rhode Island Esqrs Commissioners for the Benjamin Tasker & Government of Pensylvania Abraham Barnes Esqrs Commissioners for the Government of Maryland His Honour the Lieut Governor of New York having yesterday directed Mr Banyar Deputy Secretary of the said province to wait upon the Commissioners of the Several Provinces above named, to Acquaint them that his honour desired they would meet him in Council in the' City Hall of Albany this Morning in Order to produce their powers and proceed upon Business The said Commissioners being now Accordingly met, took their Seats and produced their respective Commissions which were read. His Honour then produced a Letter from the Right Honourable the Lords of Trade bearing date the 18th of Septr last out of which a Paragraph was read. Afterwards were read, Two Minutes of the proceedings of the Commissioners of Indian Affairs in this City dated the 15th & 18th Inst, also a Remonstrance from the Oswego Traders to his Honour It was recommended as the first step necessary to be taken at this Congress, that the Commissioners should consider of the several matters they may judge proper to be proposed to the Indians at the intended interview with them, and to prepare the Speech to be made on that occasion, for which purpose his Honour acquainted the Commissioners he would direct the Secretary or Agent for Indian Affairs to attend them with the Records of that Office. And the Commissioners of Indian Affairs to meet together as often as there should be Occasion, in order that they might give them all the Information relative to Indian Affairs. SIR WILLIAM JOHNSONo 555 At a Meeting in the Court House at Albany on Wectiesday the 19th June 1754 P.M. Present Joseph Murray Samuel Welles William Johnson John Chandlor John Chambers Oliver Partridge William Smith John Worthington Esqrs Esqrs of his Majesties Council Commissioners for of this Province Massachusett Bay Theodore Atkinson William Pitkin Richard Wibird Roger Wolcott Meshec Weare Elisha Williams Henry Sherburn Junr Esqrs Esqrs Commissioners for the Colony Commissioners for His of Connecticut Majesties Province of New Hampshire Stephen Hopkins & John Penn Martin Howard Junr Richard Peters Esqrs Isaac Norris Commissioners for the Colony Benjamin Franklin of Rhode Island Esqrs Commissioners for the Benjamin Tasker & Governmt of Pennsylvania Abraham Barnes Esqrs Commissioners for the Governmt of Mary Land The Board proceeded to take into Consideration the Matters recommended by his Honour in the Morning — The whole Letter from the Lords of Trade was read and is as follows Whitehall Septr 18th 1753. SR A few days after you sailed from Portsmouth We received a Letter from Mr Clinton, inclosing Minutes of the proceedings between him & a Deputation of the Mohawk Indians, at Fort George in the City of New York in June last, with the Journals of the Assembly then Sitting 556 MIANUSCRIPTS OF You will without doubt upon your arrival be fully informed of the particular Circumstances of this Afiair, the resentment expressed by the Indians And the Abrupt and hasty manner in which they went away; and tho' from the Confidence we have of your Vigilant Attention to whatever may Concern Your Government, We are persuaded you will not have failed to have taken every Necessary and prudent Measure to Obviate the fatal Consequences which might Attend this Affair, Yet we think it no less our Duty to embrace the first Opportunity of writing our Sentiments to you upon it and of pointing out to you what appears to us necessary to be done. When we Consider of how great Consequence the Friendship and Alliance of the Six Nations is to all His Majesties Colonies and Plantations in America in General as well as to New York in particular, When we consider that this Friendship and Alliance is only to be gained and preserved by making presents to them at proper times and upon proper Occasions, and by an inviolable Observance of all our'Engagements with them, And when we recollect the Attempts which have lately been made to withdraw them from the British Interest, We cannot but be greatly concerned and Surprized, that the Province of New York should have been so inattentive to the General Interest of his Majesties Subjects in America, as well as to their own Particular Security, as to have given Occasion to the Complaints made by the Indians; But we are still more Surprized at the manner in which these Complaints were received. The Dissatisfactory answers given to the Indians, and at their being Suffered to depart, (tho' the Assembly was then sitting) without any Measures taken to bring them to temper or to redress their Complaints This being the light in which we see this Affair, We think it for his Majesties Service that you should take the very first opportunity of representing to the Council and Assembly in the Strongest manner of how great Importance it is to the province of New York to preserve the Friendship and Affection of the Indians and the fatal Consequences which must inevitably follow from a Neglect of them, that you should press them to join with and support you in every measure you shall find it necessary to pursue, in Order to SIR WILLIAM JOHNSON. 557 fix them on the British Interest, more especially by making proper Provision for presents for them, which joined to the presents Allowed by his Majesty, and which you Will receive by this Conveyance, may serve to facilitate this great End, and to wipe away all Remembrance of that neglect the Indians now complain of. As a speedy Interview with the Indians is from their present Disposition become the more necessary You will no doubt think it proper to Advise with the Council as to the time and place of Meeting the Indians, in which points We trust you will have a due regard to their Convenience and as it Appears from their Complaints, that Albany which has been the usual place of Meeting is Obnoxious. to them, You will if you find Sufficient Foundation for this Complaint, appoint some other place you shall think more for their Ease and Satisfaction, And we observe from a Report of the Council and Assembly to Mr Clinton that Onondaga is proposed as the most proper place. We likewise hope that in the Choice of the Persons who are to attend and Assist you at this Interview, you will have a regard to such as are best Acquainted with the Indians and their Affairs, and not Obnoxious to them; And as a great Deal depends upon the Intepreter, We desire you will be particularly carefull to appoint such as are well acquainted with the Indian Language and Men of Ability and Integrity. We hope that the Treats of the Mohawk Indians when they left New York have not been carried into Execution, but think it of Absolute Necessity in Order to Abuiate any ill Consequences which might attend these Threats That some person of Character and discretion, should be immediately sent amongst the Indians to acquaint them of your Arrival, Of the presents his Majesty has Ordered to be delivered to them, and of your Intention of holding an Interview with them, for burying the Hatchet and renewing the Covenant Chain; that this person should be carefully instructed to endeavour to remove any prejudices which the Six Nations may have imbibed-from the Representations of the Mohawks, to Obviate the ill Effects which would attend a General discontent amongst them at so Critical a Conjuncture, and to put them upon their Guard against any attempts which may be made to withdraw them from his Majesties Interest; And that nothing may be wanting to Convince the Indians of the Sincerity of our Intentions, You will 558 MANUSCRIPTS OF do well to Examine into the Complaints they have made of being defrauded of their Lands, to take all proper and legal Methods to redress their Complaints, and to gratify them by Reasonable purchachases, or in such other matter as you shall find most proper and Agreeable to them, for such lands as have been Unwarrantably taken from them, or for such other as they may have a desire to dispose of; And we recommend it to you to be particularly carefull for the future that you do not make Grants to any Persons Whatsoever of Lands purchased by them of the Indians upon their own Accounts. Such practices have been found in a Neighboring Government to be attended with Great Mischief and Inconvenience; But when the Indians are disposed to sell any of their Lands, the Purchase ought to be made in his Majesty's Name and at the Publick Charge. As we find it has been usual upon former Occasions when an Interview has been held with the Indians for the other Neighbouring Governments in Alliance with them to send Commissioners to be joined with those of New York, And as the present weavering Disposition of the Indians equally Effects the other Provinces, We have wrote to the Governor of Virginia, Pensylvania, Maryland, New Hampshire, Massachusetts Bay and New Jersey, desiring them to represent to their respective Assemblys the Utility and necessity of this Measure and to Urge them to make proper provision for it; And therefore it will be necessary that when you have Settled the Time and place of Meeting, you should give them early notice of it; And this leads us to recommend one thing more to Your Attention, and that is to take care that all the Provinces be (if practicable) comprized in one General Treaty to be made in his Majesties name, it appearing to us that the Practice of each Province making a Separate Treaty for itself in its own Name is very improper and may be attended with great inconvenience to his Majesties Service So we bid you heartily farewell and are Your very loving Friends & Humble Servants DUNK HALIFAX To Sr Danvers Osborn Govr of New York J. GRENVILLE Albany June 1754 DUPPLIN a true Copy of the Original Examd by Gw. Banyar D. Secrey SIR WILLIAM JOHNSON. 559 And also were read the following papers from the Commissioners of Indian Affairs at Albany. (viz) Albany 15th of June 1754 At a Meeting of the Commissioners of Indian Affairs at Mr Lutteridges. PRESENT Collo Myndert Schuyler Capt Hubert Marshall Commandr of Robert Saunders Esqr I the Fort. Mayor of the City Cornelius Cuyler Sybt Van Schaak Recorder John Beekman John Renselaer Esqrs Jacob Conradt Ten Eyck Peter Winne J Peter Wraxall Secretary. His Honour the Lieut Governor The Honourable James De Lancey Esqr having directed Collo Myndert Schuyler to convene the Commissioners of Indian Affairs that they might consult together if they had any matters in particular to recommend to his Honour upon the approaching Interview with the Six Nations. In Consequence hereof the Commissioners are of Opinion, that the Six Nations who now live dispersed & Confused, should in the most earnest manner be exhorted to unite and dwell together in their respective Castles, And that the Mohawk Nation should live in one Castle only. That his honour apply to the Onondaga Indians in particular to direct and exhort them to live together in one Castle according to their Antient and prudent Custom, and to cause all their friends and Relations wheresoever dispersed to join them, particularly those who have Separated themselves and live at present at Sweegassie where the French have lately Fortified, have a Garrison and where a French Missionary constantly resides in order to draw them off from our Alliance. At this Sweegassie the French have lately made a Settlement of Indians belonging to the Six Nations of which the greatest part are from Onondaga & Cayouge. That whereas the French have long been endeavoring to prevail on the Senecas to come and Settle at Irondequat in order to have them nearer to their Settlements the more easily to Effect their 560 MANUSCRIPTS OF design of debauching them from the Brittish Interest:; The Commissioners are of Opinion that his Honour should insist on the Sennecas, who at present live very remote from one another, to make a General Castle near the Mouth of the Senneca River, where they have already began to Build a New Castle. This point has been Several times recommended to them by former Governors and which they have faithfilly promised to do, but have not hitherto effected. The Commissioners are of Opinion that the most effectual method to restrain and secure the Six Nations to the British Interest, will be, to Build two Forts, One on the Onondaga, the other in the Sennecas Country and that each Fort be Supplyed with a proper Missionary. They are further of Opinion that the Carrying and Selling Rum in the Castles of the Six Nations is of the most pernicious Conse.quence to the Public Interest of this Colony in particular and to the British Interest in General with respect to our Indian Connexions. The Commissioners are also of Opinion that no Frenchman upon any pretence whatsoever, should be Suffered to reside or Trade amongst the Six Nations, And that the said Six Nations should be directed to send those Frenchmen away who now Trade or reside amongst them, and to warn them not to return-Those French Emissarys having always been of fatal Consequence to the British Interest & amongst the Six Nations Albany 18th June 1754 At a Meeting of the Commissioners of Indian Affairs at the house of Robt Lutteridge PRESENT Peter Winne, Sybrant Van Shaik Recorder Myndert Schuyler John Beekman Es Jacob Coent Ten Eyck Peter Wraxall Secretary. His Honour the Lieut Governor having sent to Collo Myndert Schuyler to know what he should do with regard to the River SIR WILLIAM JOHNSON. 561 Indians at the approaching Interview-Collo Schuyler thought proper to convene the Commissioners that they might Answer His Honour upon this point. They are of Opinion that after The Six Nations arrive in Town it will be time enough to send a Message to the said River Indians. WHEREAS divers complaints have been made to the Commissioners of Indian Affairs that the Indians at Conoghoheere Castle do forcibly take Rum from the Oswego Traders in their passage by the said Castle. And also that the Oneida Indians oblige the Traders to let them carry their Goods over the carrying place, and to pay them double and sometimes, more than double the Customary price which the Germans are ready and Willing to take. It is the Opinion therefore of this Board that his Honour be pleased at the Approaching Interview to represent the injustice of those proceedings to the Six Nations and that it is a breach of their promises solemnly made, and a violation of their Engagements entered into and frequently renewed with former Governors. A true Copy from the Records of Indian Affairs PETER WRAXALL Secretary. A Remonstrance was then Read to the Board, from the Oswego Traders to his honour the Lieut Governor of New York of which the following is a Copy To his Honour James De Lancey Esquire Lieut Governor and Commander in Chief of the Province of New York &c. &c. &c. We the Traders (or Handlers) to Oswego most humbly beg leave to remonstrate to your Honour the many hazzards and Difficulties We are Subject to in our passage thither from the ill treatment we meet with from the Indians (i e) in passing the Mohawks and Canajohary Castles, they Board our Battoes with Axes knives &c and by force take what Rum they think proper hooping and yelping as if they had Gloried in their depradations and threatening Murder to any that oppose them: And on our Arrival at the great carrying place, The Oneida Indians force our Goods from us at pleasure to carry over, and not content with making us pay a most exorbitant price for each Freight but rob us VOL. II. 36 562 MANUSCRIPTS OF of our Rum, Stores and other Goods with a great deal of invective threatening language, and are generally so Numerous that we are Obliged to Submit to those impositions or run the risk of being Murdered and Robbed of every thing we have; And to put their Schemes the better in Execution they fore away the High Germans who generally attend with their Horses, that we may be under a Necessity of employing them and paying whatever they please to demand. We therefore humbly pray your Honour to take these our most severe Grievances under due consideration and fall upon such methods to redress them as in your great wisdom shall seem most Expedient. Accept of our most fervent Prayers for your Welfare and Prosperity as we ever remain with all due Defference, Gratitude and Esteem Sir your Honours most Dutyfull & most Humble Servants Oswego June 1st 1754. To which 47 Several Names were Signed. The following Gentlemen were appointed a Committee to prepare the Draught of a General Speech to be made by his Honour to the Indians namely William Johnson Samuel Welles Theodore Atkinson Elisha Williams Esqrs Martin Howard Jun to whom were delivered Isaac Norris the aforesaid Papers. Benja Tasker Jun Adjourned till to Morrrow Morning At a Meeting at the Court House mi Albany on Thursday the 20th June 1754 A M. PRESENT His Honour and the aforesaid Council of New York and Several of the Commissioners. The Committee appointed Yesterday to prepare a Draught of a General Speech to be made to the Indians not being ready to make their Report, the Board Adjourned till to Morrow Morning. SIR WILLIAM JOHNSON. 563 At a Meeting in the Court House at Albany on Fryday the 21st June 1754 A. M, PRESENT His Honour the Lieut Governor the Council of New York aforesaid All the Commissioners, And Thomas Hutchinson Esqr one of the Commissioners of Massachusetts Bay. It was proposed by the Governor that to avoid all disputes about the precedency of the Colonies They should be named in the Minutes according to their Sittuation from North to South. which was agreed to, Peter Wraxall Esqr was Chosen Secretary to this Board. The Committee delivered in their Draught of the General Speech which was read throl and afterwards Paragraph by Paragraph. Objections were made to some parts. The Board not coming to any conclusion on the same They adjourned till to Morrow Morning. At a Meeting in the Court House at Albany on Saturday the 22d June 1754. A. M. PRESENT The Council of New York aforesaid, and all the Commissioners Except John Chandler Esquire one of the Commissioners for Massachusetts Bay. The Consideration of the Draught of the General Speech was resumed and one being agreed upon, Mr Hutchinson and Mr Peters were desired to waite upon the Lieut Governor with the same. Adjourned to Monday Morning At a Meeting in the Court House at Albany on Monday the 24th June 1754. A. M, PRESENT The Council of New York aforesaid and all the Commissioners A motion was made that the Thanks of this Board be given to the Revd Mr Peters one of the Commissioners for Pensylvania for his Sermon preached Yesterday, and that he be desired to suffer the same to be printed. Which was unanimously agreed to. 564 MANUSCRIPTS OF Mr Chambers and Mr Peters were desired to waite upon his Honour to request him to Administer an Oath to Mr Wraxall for the due and faithfull discharge of his Office of Secretary to this Board. Adjourned to Three aClock this afternoon. At a Meeting as aforesaid Monday afternoon the 24th June 1754. PRESENT The Honoble The Lieut Govenor. And the Council aforesaid of the Province of New York. And all the Commissioners Mr Chambers and Mr Peters Reported to the Board that Mr Wraxall had been Swore into his Office by his Honour conformable to their desire in the Morning A motion was made, That the Commissioners deliver their Opinion, whether a Union of all the Colonies is not at present absolutely necessary for their Security and defence. The Question was accordingly put, and it passed in the affirmative Unanimously. His Honour the Lieut Governor made a proposal as a Branch of Indian Affairs under the Consideration of this Board; to build -two Forts in the Indian Country to protect them, their Wives and Children, as the best Expedient to secure their Fidelity to his Majesty. Which proposal The Board determined to proceed upon, after they had considered some method of effecting the Union between the Colonies. On a motion that a Committee be appointed- to prepare and Receive Plans or Schemes for the Union of the Colonies & to digest them into one General Plan for the Inspection of this Board, Resolved That each Government choose One of their own number to be of that Committee. Accordingly were appointed. Thomas Hutchinson Esqr for Massachusets Bay Theodore Atkinson Esqr for New Hampshire William Pitkin Esqr for Connecticut Stephen Hopkins Esqr for Rhode Island Benja Franklin Esqr' for Pensylvania Benja Tasker Esqr for Maryland SIR WILLIAM JOHNSON. 565 It was left to his Honour to appoint one of his Majesties Council for the Government of New York and he named William Smith Esqr Adjourned till to Morrow Morning at 11 oClock. At a Meeting in the Court House at Albany on Tuesday the 25th June 1754 A. M. PRESENT Joseph Murray Samuel Welles William Johnson & John Chandler Esqrs Commissioners John Chambers Oliver Partridge >for Massachusetts Esqrs & Bay. of the Council of New John Worthington York. Richard Wibard ) Meseach.. Weare! Esqrs Commissioners for New Hampshire. Henry Sherburne Roisr Woott m} Esqrs Commissioners for Connecticut. Martin Howard Esqr a Commissioner from Rhode Island. aaohn Pennrs Esqrs Commissioners for Pensylvania. Isaac Norris Abraham Barnes Esqr a Commissioner for Maryland. The Draught of the General Speech not being returned to the Board from his Honour the Lieut Governor of New York. Adjourned to 5 a Clock this afternoon. At a Meeting as aforesaid Tuesday the 25th June 1754 P. M. PRESENT All the Gentlemen of the Council of New York & all the Commissioners. Mr Murray delivered to the Board for their Approbation His Honours Alterations and additions to the draught of the Speech presented to his Honour by Mr Hutchinson and Mr Peters the 22d Inst. which were read to the Board by the Secretary and the further Consideration thereof was Deferred till to Morrow Morning. Adjourned till 11 oClock to Morrow Morning. S66 MANUSCRIPTS OF At a Meeting in the Court House at Albany on Wednesday the 26 June 1754 A. M. PRESENT William Johnson & John Chambers Esqrs of the Council of New York. Samuel Welles, John Chambers, Thomas Hutchinson, & Oliver Partridge Esqrs Commissrs for Massachusetts Bay. William Pitkin, Roger Wolcott, & Elisha Williams Esqrs Commissioners for Conneticutt. Martin Howard Junr Esqr Commissioner for Rhode Island The Draught of the General Speech to the Six Nations was further Debated, but not being fully concluded upon. The Board adjourned till 10 a Clock to morrow Morning At a Meeting in the Court House at Albany on Thursday the 27th June 1754. A. M. PEESENT The Four Gentlemen of the Council of New York & all the Commissioners. The Draught of the General Speech was further debated and not being fully concluded upon the Board Adjourned till 5 a Clock this afternoon. At a Meeting at the Court House in Albany on Thursday the 27 June 1754 P. M. PRESENT The Four Gentlemen of the Council of New York & all the Commissioners A Motion was made, that the Commissions or Powers from the Several Governments should be made part of the Records of this Congress It was unanimously agreed to and ordered to be prefixed to these Records. The Draught of the General Speech was Settled, Read and unanimously approved of, and is as follows. BRETHREN I have invited you here by the Command of the Great, King our Common Father, to Receive a present from him, and in his name to renew the Antient Treaty between this and all his SIR WILLIAM JOHNSON. 567 other Governments and you our Brethren; And I have ihe pleasure to tell you that by his Special Order, there are now present Commissioners from Massachusetts Bay, New Hampshire, Connecticut, Rhode Island Pensylvania and Maryland. Virginia and Carolina likewise desire to be considered as present, altho' some great affairs which those Governments are engaged in, have prevented their sending Commissioners. We are glad to see our Brethren here in health and heartily bid you welcome. A Belt BRETHREN We Condole your and our Loss in the Death of some of your People, since the last Interview in this Place. We wipe away all Tears from your Eyes, and take away Sorry from your Hearts, that you may Speak freely. Three Strings of Wampum BRETHREN We come to Strengthen and Brighten the Chain of Friendship. It gives us great Satisfaction that you have lately added two Links to the Chain. The Shanchadaradighroones and the Tedderigbroones, As it will always give us pleasure to see your Strength increased. This Chain hath remained firm and unbroken from the beginning. This Belt will represent to you. our Disposition to preserve it. Strong and Bright so long as the Sun and Moon shall endure, and in the name of the Great King our Father, And in the behalf of all his Majesties Colonies, We now Solemnly renew, brighten and Strengthen the antient Covenant Chain, and promise to keep the same Inviolable and Free from Rust. And We Expect the like Confirmation & assurance on your part. A Chain Belt His Honour the Lieut Governor explained this Chain Belt to them in the following manner. BRETHREN This Represents the King our Common Father, This Line Represents his arms Extended, embracing all us the English and all the Six Nations, These represent the Colonies which are here present and those who desire to be thought present, These represent the Six Nations and there is a space left to draw in the other Indians, and There in the Middle is the line represented which draws us all in under the King our Common Father. 568 MANUSCR1PTS OF The foregoing Explanation having been added to the general Speech by his Honour at his delivery of it, doth not appear in the proceedings of the Congress, But stands in the Records of Indian Affairs and is therefore supplyed in this manner by PETER WRAXALL Secretary for Indian Affairs BRETHEREN We are informed that you now live dispersed from each other, contrary to the Antient and prudent Custom of your forefathers. And as you are by this means exposed to the attempts of your Enemies. We therefore in the most earnest manner recommend to and expect it from you, for your own safety, to collect yourselves together and dwell in your National Castles. We desire you Brethren of the Onondaga Nation in particular, to call in your Friends and Relations to join you, especially those of your Nation who now live at Osweegachie, A Brave people separated from each other may easily fall a Sacrifice, Wherea's united they may live secure and uninjured A Belt BRETHERtN We have something to say to you of great Importance. The Treatys subsisting between us and you our Brethren, as well as the Great Affection we bear towards you, Oblige us to mention it. The French profess to be in perfect Friendship with us as well as you, Notwithstanding this, they are making continual Incroachments upon us both: They have lately ddne so in the most insulting manner both to the Northward and Westward. Your Fathers by their valour above One hundred Years ago, gained a considerable Country, which they Afterwards of their own Accord put under the protection of the King of Great Britain. The French are endeavouring to possess themselves of this whole Country, altho' they have made the most Express Treaties with the English to the contrary. BRETHEREN It appears to us that these Measures of the French must necessarily soon interrupt and destroy all Trade and Intercourse between the English and the several Indian Nations on the Continent, and will Block up and Obstruct, the Great Roads SIR WILLIAM JOHNSON. 569 which have hitherto lain open between you and your Allies and Friends who live at a distance. We want to know whether these things appear to you in the same light as they do to us, or whether the French taking possession of the Lands in your Country, and building Forts between the Lakes Erie and the River Ohio, be done with your Consent or Approbation. A large Belt 1BRETHEREN Open your Hearts to us, deal with us as Bretheren, we are ready to consult with you how to Scatter these Clouds that hang over us. This is a matter of so great weight, that we think it best to defer mentioning any other Affair till you have considered this, least they should take away part of that attention which is necessary on so extraordinary an Occasion A Belt Adjourned till to morrow Morning at 11 a Clock At a Meeting in the Court House Albany on Fryday the 28 June 1754. A. M. PRESENT John Chandler Oliver Partridge & John Worthington Roger Wolcott & Esqrs Elisha Williams Commissrs for Massachusets Bay Esqrs Richard Wibird Commissioners Meseke Weare for & Connecticut Henry Sherburne Esqrs Cornmissrs for New Hampshire Martin Howard Junr Esqr a Commissioner for Rhode Island John Penn Esqr one of the Commissrs for Pensylvania. The Board Adjourned till 5 a Clock this Afternoon 570 MANUSCRIPTS OF At a Meeting &c Fryday Afternoon 28 June 1754. PRESENT The 4 Gentlemen of the Council of New York. All the Commissioners from Massachusetts Bay All the Commissioners from New Hampshire All the Commissioners from Connecticut Stephen Hopkins Esqr one of the Commissrs from Rhode Island John Penn ) & Esqrs Comamissrs from Pensylvama Benja Franklin o Benja Tasker Junr Esqr one of the Commissrs from Maryland The Committee appointed the 24 Inst to prepare and receive plans or Schemes for the Union of the Colonies, presented short Hints of a Scheme for that purpose, of which Copies were taken by the Commissioners of the respective Provinces Adjourned till to Morrow Morning at 9 a Clock At a Meeting at the Court House in Albany on Saturday the 29 June 1754. A. M. PRESENT William Smith Esqr one of the Council of New York & All the Commissioners. His Honour the Lieut Governor of New York having given Notice to this Board that he was going to Speak to the Indians. The Board Adjourned till 5 aClock this afternoon, & Attended His Honour whilst he delivered the Speech. At a Meeting in the Court House at Albany on Saturday the 29 June 1754. P. M. PRESENT Joseph Murray 1 John Chambers I William Smith All the Commissioners from Massachusetts Bay. Theodore Atkinson All the Commissioners from Connecticut & The Commissioners from Rhode Island Richard Wibird All the Commissioners from Pennsylvania Esqrs The Commissioners from Maryland Comnissioners for New Hampshire SIR WILLIAM JOHNSON. 571 The Board being informed that a Considerable Number of Indians from Stockbridge, being of the Nation known by the Name of the River Indians were in Town; A Motion was made that his Honour the Lieut Governour might be acquainted with the Circumstances of said Indians and desired to give Orders for their Support The said Motion was agreed to, And Mr Welles and Mr Franklin were appointed to waite on his Honour Accordingly. The hints of a Scheme for the Union of the Colonies were debated on but came to no Conclusion. Adjourned to Monday Morning at 9 aClock. At a Meeting at the Court House at Albany on Monday the I July 1754. A. M, PRESENT The Lieut Governor & the four Gentlemen of the Council of New York All the Commissioners for Massachusetts Bay Except John Chandler Esqr Theodore Atkinson & Esqrs Commissioners for New Hampshire Henry Sherboume ) The Commissioners for Connecticutt The Commissioners for Rhode Island All the Commissioners for Pennsylvania The Commissioners for MaryLand. Mr Franklin Reported to the Board, that he had with IMr Welles (Mr Welles was not then present) waited on the Lieut Governor and delivered the Message from the Board of Saturday last relating to the River Indians, living near Stockbridge, and that his honour was pleased to Answer, that he had not sent for those Indians, that he had consulted his Council and enquired of the Commissioners of Indian affairs and was Informed that it had never been usual to afford Subsistance to those Indians at any Treaty in Albany; that it was agreat expence to New York to Maintain the other Indians, that these properly belonged to Massachusetts Bay Governmt and it appeared to him that they should be Supported by that Government. 572 1MANUSCRIPTS OF Upon a Motion the Records of Indian Affairs for the Province of New York were sent for, and it appeared that the River Indians have usually been present at the Treaties with the Six Nations, & that a Speech has always been made to said River Indians, & it was moved to the Lieut Governor of New York that he would now speak to them in the name of the Commissioners from the Several Colonies, and also give Orders for their Support. His Honour agreed to the purposals of Speaking to them, and offered to give Orders for their Support, but was pleased to say that he expected the Commissioners for the Several Provinces would Contribute to the Charge of it. His Honour delivered to the Board Copys of Two Minutes of Council which are as follow. At a Council held in the City of Albany the 27 June 1754. P.M. PRESENT The Honoble James De Lancey Esqr Lieut Governor &Ca Mr Murray Mr Chambers Collo Johnson Mr Smith His Honour being informed by the Indian Interpreter that the lower Castle of the Mohawk Indians now in this City, had some Bussiness to lay before him, and desired to be admitted to an Audience, Appointed them to attend at 4 aClock this Afternoon in Council, and they attending Accordingly were introduced with the Interpreter. The Governor told them he was very glad to see them. That he was now Met in Council and ready to hear what they had to say Whereupon Canadagaia their Speaker Addressing himself to his Honour spoke as follow. BROTHER We are here this Day by Gods will and your Honours Order to which place you have led us as it were by the hand. This is our Old Meeting place, Where if we have any Grievances We can lay them Open. You are lately come to the Administratioin and we are glad to see you to lay our Complaints before you. We take it very kind you have given us this Opportunity to unfold our minds and will now proceed to declare our Grievances. SIR WILLIAM JOHNSON. 573 BROTHER We shall now open our Minds, And we beg you will take time to consider what we shall say and not give us too heasty an Answer or in two or three Words, and then turn your back upon us. As you are a New Governor We beg you will treat us tenderly and not as the former Governor did, who turned his Back upon us before we knew he intended to depart, so that We had no Opportunity to finish our Business with him. The reason we desire you would. Treat us in this Tender manner, is because this is the place where we are to expect a Redress of our Grievances and we hope all things will be so Settled that we may part good Friends. BROTHER We told you a little while ago that we had an Uneasiness on our minds and we shall now tell you what it is. It is Concerning our land. We understand that there are Writings for all our Lands so that we shall have none left. but the very Spot we live upon, and hardly that. We have examined amongst the Elderly People who are now present if they have sold any of it, who deny that they ever have. And we earnestly desire you will take this into Consideration, which will give us great Satisfaction, and convince us that you have a Friendship for us. We dont complain of those who have honestly Bought the Land, they possess, or those to whom we have given any but to some who have taken more than we have given them. We find we are very poor; We thought we had yet Land round about us, but it is said there are writings for it all. It is one Condition of the Ancient Covenant Chain, that if there be any uneasiness on either side or any Request to be made, that they shall be considered with a Brotherly regard. And we hope you will fulfill this Condition on your side, as we shall always be ready to do on Ours. We have embraced this Opportunity of unbosoming ourselves to You with regard to our Castle, and we are well assured that the other Castle of the Mohawks have Complaints of the same Nature to make when they come down. We have now declared our own Grievances and the Canajoharys will declare theirs, but that we shall leave to them. By this Belt we desire you to consider what we have said, 574 MANUSCRIPTS OF and by the same we inform you that the Five Nations have Something to say to you before you speak to them Gave a Belt The Governor said You have now unbosomed Yourselves to me. And desire I would seriously consider of what you have said and not give you a hasty Answer. I will consider of it seriously and you shall always find me ready to redress any of your Grievances as far as it may be in my Power. But your Complaints are General. I must therefore desire You to tell me where those Lands lye and the Names of the Persons of whom you Complain To which their Speaker answered. BROTHER We are told a large Tract of Land has been taken up called I(ayadarosseras beginning at the half Moon and so up along Hudsons River to the third Fall and thence to the Cacknawaga or Canada Creek which is about 4 or 5 Miles above the Mohawks; Which upon enquiry among our Old Men We cannot find was ever Sold; And as to the particular Persons many of them live in this town, but there are so great a Number we cannot name them. The Governor said, I will send for some of the patentees or Persons Claiming that Land and hear what they have to say and Consider the Matter and give you an Answer before you leave this place. It is agreeable to justice to hear both parties before a Judgment is given. And to Manyfest my Friendship for you, 1 will do you all the Justice in my power. A true Copy Examd By Gw. Banyar Dy C. of the Council SIR WILLIAM JOHNSON. 575 At a Council held in the City of Albany the 28 June 1754. PRESENT The Honoble James Delancey Esqr Lieut Governor &c. Mr Murray Collo Johnson Mr Chambers Mr Smith His Honour being informed that the Cannajohary or the upper Castle of the Mohawk Indians, and Several Sachems of each of the other five nations, attended without, and desired to speak to him, they were introduced with the Interpreter. Hendrick their Speaker spoke as follows. BROTHER We had a Message from you sometime ago to meet you at this Place Where the Fire Burns; We of Conajohary met the Messenger you sent with a Letter, at Collo Johnsons and as soon as we received it, came down running, And the 6 Nations are now here Compleat. The Governor then said. BRETHEREN of the Six Nations, you are Welcome; I take this Opportunity now you are altogether to condole the Loss in the Death of your Friends and Relations, since you last met here, And with this String of Wampum, I wipe away your Tears and take Sorrow from your Hearts, that you may open your minds and speak freely A String of Wampum. Hendrick replyed. BROTHER We thank you for condoling our loss and for wiping away our Tears that we may speak freely: And as we do not doubt but you have lost some of your great Men and Friends, We give you this string of Condolence in return, that it may remove your Sorrow and that we may both speak freely. Gave a String Then Hendrick addressing himself to the Six Nations said, That last Year he attended Colo Johnson to Onondaga to do Service to the King and their People. That Colo Johnson told them a new Governor was expected soon3 and then they would have an 576 MANUSCRIPTS OF Opportunity of seeing him at Albany, and laying their grievances before him. That the new Governor arrived soon after and Scarcely had they heard of his arrival but they had an account of his Death. And that now he was glad to see his Honour to whom he would declare his Greviances, And then proceeded. BROTHER We thought you would wonder why we of Canajohary staid so long. We shall now give you the reason. Last Summer We of Connajohary were down at New York to make our Complaints, And we then thought the Covenant Chain was broken because we were neglected; And when you neglect Business the French take Advantage of it, for they are never quiet. It seemed to us that the Governor had turned his Back upon the Five Nations, as if they were no more, Whereas the French are doing all in their Power to draw us over to them. We told the Governor last Summer we blamed him for the Neglect of the Five Nations, and at the same time we told him, The French were drawing the Five Nations away to Osweegachie, owing to that Neglect which might have been prevented if proper use had been made of that Warning, but now we are Affraid it is to late. We Remember how it was in former times when we were a Strong and powerful People. Colo Schuyler used frequently to come amongst us, and by this Meanes we were kept together, BROTHER We the Mohawks are in very difficult Circumstances and are blamed for things behind our Backs which we dont deserve. Last Summer when we went up with Colo Johnson to Onondaga and he made his Speech to the 5 Nations, the five Nations said they liked the Speech very well, but that the Mohawks had made it. We are looked upon by the other Nations as Colo Johnson's Councellors- and Supposed to hear all News from him, which is not the Case, for Colo Johnson does not receive from or impart much news to us. This is our Reason for Staying behind, for if we had came first, the other Nations would have said that we made the Governor's Speech, and therefore tho' we were resolved to comer we intended the other Nations should go before us that they might hear the Governors Speech, which we could hear Afterwards. SIR WILLIAM JOHNSON. 577 There are some of our People who have large open Ears and talk a little broken English and Dutch so that they sometimes hear what is said by the Christian Settlers near them; And by this means we came to understand that we are looked upon to be a proud Nation and therefore stayed behind. Tis true, and known we are sol And that we the Mohawks are the head of all the other Nations, here they are and the must own it. But it was not out of pride We Connojoharye staied behind-but for the Reason we have already given. His Honour answered,.BRETHEREN OF CONNAJOHARY You have now told me the reason why you staid behind, because you would not be blaimed by the other Nations as you have been before. I am Satisfied with what you say that your staying behind did not proceed from pride. You tell me you have large open Ears and that some of You understand a little of the Language of the Settlers about you, But I must caution you not to hearken to common Reports, neither of us or your Bretheren of the other Nations. I desire that we may all speak freely and open our Hearts to each other and so remove any Jealousies from amongst us. I hope that at another Interview you will all be more punctual and keep as near as you can to the time appointed. You are sensible it must be very inconvenient to me and the Commissioners from the other Governments to be detained so long in this Place at so great a distance from our homes. a true Copy Examined by Geo. Banyar D C of ye Cl A Motion was made that a Committee should be appointed to draw up a Representation of the present state of the Colonies. Which was agreed to, and that the Gentlemen who were appointed to prepare & receive Plans or Schemes for the Union of the Colonies the 24 ulto should be a Committee for this purpose. The Plan for an Union of the Colonies was debated, but the Board came to no resolves upon it. Adjourned to Nine oClock to morrow morning VOL. II. 37 578 MANUSCRIPTS OF At a Meeting in the Court House at Albany on Tuesday the 2d July 1754 A Mo PRESENT All the Commissioners from Massachusets Bay, New Hampshire, Connecticut, Rhode Island, Pensylvania, and Maryland. After debates held on the Plan of an Union, it was moved If they Board should proceed to form the plan of Union of the Colonies to be established by an Act of Parliament. Whereupon it was moved to put the previous Question-which passed in the Negative. The Question was then put whether the Board should proceed to form the Plan of a Union of the Colonies to be established by an act of parliament-which passed in the Affirmative. Adjourned to 3 aClock in the Afternoon. At a meeting as aforesaid on Tuesday the 2d July 1754. P. M. PRESENT The Lieut Governor, & the four Gentlemn of the Council of New York and all the Commissioners from the Several Governmts above mentioned. The answer of the Six Nations to the General Speech made to them on Saturday last by his Honour the Lieut Governor of New York in his Majesties name and in the presence and behalf of the Several Governments on the Continent therein named was Read and is as follows. Abraham a Sachem of the upper Castle of the Mohawks rose up and said. BRETHEREN You the Governor of New York and the Commissioners of the other Governments, are you ready to hear us. They Governor replyed, they were all ready. Then Hendrick Brother to the said Abraham and a Sachem of the said Castle, rose up, and spoke in behalf of the Six Nations as follows. BRETHEREN Just now you told us you were ready to hear us, hearken to me Brother Corlaer and Brothers of the other Governments. SIR WILLIAM JOHNSON. 579 Saturday last you told us that you came here by order of the Great King our Common Father, and in his name to renew the Antient Chain of Friendship, between this and the other Governments on the Continent and us the Six united Nations; and you said also that there were then present Commissioners from Massachusetts Bay, New Hampshire, Connecticut Rhode Island, Pensylvania, and Maryland: and that Virginia and Carolina desired to be considered also as present. We rejoyce that by the Kings Orders We are all met here this day, and are glad to see each other Face to Face. We are very thankfull for the same and we look upon the Governors of South Carolina and Virginia as also present. (Gave a Belt) BRETHREN We thank you in the most hearty manner for your Condolence to us, We also condole all your Friends and Relations who have died since our last meeting here. (Gave 3 Strings of Wampum) BRETIEREN (holding the Chain Belt given by his Honour and the several Governments in his hand.) We return you all our Gratefull acknowledgements for renewing and brightening the Covenant Chain. this Chain Belt is of very great Importance to our united Nations and all our Allies, We will therefore take it to Onondaga where our Council Fire always Burns and keep it so securely that neither thunder nor Lightening shall break it. There we will consult over it, And as we have lately added two links to it so we will use our Endeavours to add as many links more to it as lies in our power; And we hope when we Shew you this Belt again, we shall give you reason to rejoice at it, by your seeing the Vacancies in it filled up, (referring to his Honours explanation of it in the General Speech) in the mean time we desire that you will strengthen yourselves and bring as many into this Covenant Chain as you possibly can. We do now Solemnly renew and Brighten the Covenant Chain with our Bretheren here present and all our other absent bretheren on the Continent. BRETHEREN As to the accounts you have heard of our living dispersed from each other it is very true. 580 MANUSCRIPTS OF We have several times endeavoured to draw off those our Bretheren who are Settled at Oswegatie but in vain, for the Governor of Canada is like a wicked deluding Spirit. however as you desire, we shall persist in our Endeavours. You have asked us the Reason of our living in this dispersed manner-the reason is, your neglecting us for these three years past, (then taking a Stick and throwing it behind his Back) you have thus thrown us behind your back, and disregarded us, Whereas the French are a subtile and Vigilent People, ever using their utmost Endeavours to seduce and bring our People over to them. (Gave a Belt) BRETHEREN As to the Incroachments of the French and what you have said to us on that Article in the behalf of the King our Father. As these matters were laid before us as of great Importance, so we have made a Strict Enquiry amongst all our People if any of them have either sold or given the French leave to Build the Forts you mention and we cannot find that either any Sale has been made, or leave has been given, but the French have gone thither without our Consent or Approbation nor ever mentioned it to us. BRETHEREN The Governor of Virginia and the Governor of Canada are both Quarrelling about lands which belong to us. And such a Quarrel as this may end in our destruction. They fight who shall have the Land. The Governors of Virginia and Pensylvania have made paths thro our Country to Trade and Build Houses without acquainting us with it, they should first have asked our Consent to build there as was done when Oswego was Built (Gave a Belt) BRETHEREN It is very true as you told us that the Clouds hang heavy over us, and tis not very pleasant to look up, but we give you this Belt (giving a Belt) to clear away all Clouds, that we may all live in bright sunshine and keep together in strict union and Friendship, then we shall become strong and nothing can hurt us. BRETHEREN This is the Antient place of Treaty where the Fire of Friendship always used to Burn, And Itis now three Years since we SIR WILLIAM JOHNSON. 581 have been called to any publick Treaty here. Tis true there are Commissioners here, but they have never invited us to Smoak with them (by which they mean the Commissioners had never invited them to any conference) But the Indians of Canada come frequently and smoak here which is for the sake of their Beaver but we hate them (meaning the French Indians) We have not as yet confirmed the Peace with them. Tis your fault Bretheren that we are not Strengthened by Conquest, for we would have gone and taken Crown point, but you hindered us, We had concluded to go and take it, but we were told it was too late and that the Ice would not bear us. Instead of this you burnt your own Fort at Saraghtoga and run away from it, which was a Shame and a Scandall to you. Look about your Country and see, you have no Fortifications about you no not even to this City, tis but one step from Canada hither and the French may easily corn and turn you out of your Doors. BRETHEREN You desired us to speak from the bottom of our Hearts and we shall do it, Look about you and see all these Houses full of Beaver and the Money is all gone to Canada, likewise Powder, Lead and Guns which the French now makes use of at Ohio. BIRETHREN The Goods which go from hence to Oswego, go from thence to Ohio, which further enables the French to carry on their designs at the Ohio. BRETHEREN You were desirous that we should open our minds and our hearts to you. Look at the French, they are Men, they are fortifying every where-but we are ashamed to say it, you are all like Woman bare and Open without any Fortifications. Here Hendrick ended his Speech, his Brother Abraham then rose up and said. BRETHEREN'We would let you know what'was our desire threet'Years ago when Colo Johnson laid down the Management of Indian Affairs, which gave us great uneasiness. the Governor then told us it was not in his power to continue him, but that he would consult with the Council at New York —that he was going 582 MANUSCRIPTS OF over to England and promised to recommend our desire, that Colo Johnson should have the Management of Indian Affairs to the King, that the New Governor might have power to reinstate him. We long vaited in Expectation of this being done, but hearing no more of it: We Embrace this Opportunity of laying this Belt (and gave a Belt) before all our Brethren here present, and desire them that Collo Johnson may be reinstated and have the management of Indian Affairs, for we all lived happy whilst they were under his Management, for we love him and he us, and he has always been our good and trusty Friend BRETHEREN I forgot Something, We think our Request about Coll( Johnson which Governor Clinton promised to carry to the King our Father is drowned in the Sea. The Fire here is burnt out, And (turning his Face to the New York Commissioners of Indian Affairs at Albany who were there present) desired them to take notice of what he said. Which Answer from the Indians was debated Paragraph by Paragraph, and those Gentlemen who were Appointed a Committee to prepare a General Speech the 19 Ulto were now appointed to draw up a Reply. Adjourned till to Morrow Morning at 9 aClock. At a Meeting in the Court House at Albany on Wednesday the 3d July 1754. A. M. PRESENT John Chambers & William Smith Esqrs of the Council of New York Samuel Welles, John Chandlor and Oliver Partridge Esqrs Commissioners from Massachusetts Bay. Theodore Atkinson, and Richard Wibird Esqrs Commissioners from New Hampshire The Commissioners from Connecticutt Martin Howard Junr Esqr a Commissioner from Rhode Island All the Commissioners from Pennsylvania Benja Tasker Junr Esqr one of the Commissioners from Maryland A draught of the Reply proposed to be made to the Speech of SIR WILLIAM JOHNSON. 583 the 6 nations of the 1st. Inst, which the Committee appointed yesterday afternoon had drawn up, was Read. Mr. Chambers desired to carry it to his Honour the Lieut. Governor for his Opinion-which was agreed to. Took their seats at the Board. His Honour the Lieutenant Governor Joseph Murray and William Johnson Esqrs. of the Council of New York Thomas Hutchinson & John Worthington Esqrs. Commissioners for Massachusetts Bay. Meschech Weare & Henry Sherbourne Esqrs. Commissrs. for New Hampshire Stephen Hopkins Esqr. one of the Commissioners from Rhode Island Abraham Barnes Esqr. one of the Commissionersfrom Maryland. His Honour laid before the Board certain matters which he proposed to be inserted in the Reply to be made to the 6 nations which together with the Draught from the Committee was read & Debated The Commissioners from Pensylvania also laid before the Board an addition in behalf of their Province and proposed it to be added to the Reply-The Commissioners from Massachusets, New Hampshire and Connecticut proposed also some additions. These several Draughts being read and considered, the following Reply to the Six nations was agreed upon by the Board. BRETHREN It gives us great pleasure to see you so ready to renew and brighten the Antient Chain of Friendship; We wish the farther extention of it, and shall not fail joining our utmost endeavours for that purpose..B3ETHEREN We are very sorry that any neglect has been shewn to you, and we hope that nothing of that kind will happen hereafter, or any misunderstanding arise between you and any of his Majesties Governments. You are our Old and steady Friends. We assure you not one thought hav ever come into our minds of 584 M.IANUSCRIPTS OF rejecting you;-Our Hearts have ever been warm towards you, and we now gladly meet and open our hearts to you. The Covenant is renewed, the Chain is Brightened, The Fire burns Clear, and we hope all things will be pleasant on both sides for the future. A Belt BRETHEREN We gladly understand you gave no countenance to the French who went to Ohio and have entered on your Lands, they are always your and our open or Secret Enemies; you did put this Land under the King our Father, he is now taking care to preserve it for you; for this end among others he has directed to meet you here, for although the Land is under the Kings Government, yet the property or power of selling it to any of his Majesties Subjects having authority from him we always consider as vested in you. BRETHEREN You say that the Governors of Virginia and Canada are fighting about Lands belonging to you, and that the Governors of Virginia and Pensylvania have opened new Roads and Built Houses at Ohio What you say is a great surprise to us, we all know that for 5 years past, in the Face of all the Six nations, in open Day light, the French have been marching Troops into that country which we ever did and do still acknowledge to belong to you, tho' within Your Father the King of Great Britains Dominions, and under his Protection, and the French did publish every where their designs to Build Forts and drive away the English Traders: and they did carry them into Execution, by seizing the Traders and did last year actually build two Forts in that Country. But we never heard Notwithstanding these open Hostalities of the French, that ever Virginia or Pensylvania sent one Soldier or Built one House for their or your Protection, till this present year. It is fortunate that Mr. Weiser who transacts the publick business of Virginia and Pensylvania with your nations, and is one of your Council and knows these matters well, is now present. Hear the account he gives and that will set this matter in a true light. SIR WILLIAM JOHNSON. 585 Mr. Weiser was to say as follows. C BRETHREN The Road to Ohio is no new Road, it is an Old and frequented Road. The Shawanese and Delawares removed thither above thirty years ago from Pensylvania, ever since which that road has been travelled by our Traders at their Invitation, and always with safety, untill within these few Years that the French with their usual faithlessness sent armies there, threatened the Indians and obstructed our Trade with them. The Governor of Virginia observing these Hostilities in time of full peace sent his Majesty an account of them. His Majesty was pleased to order his Governor to hold an Interview with the Six nations to consult measures with them how to put a stop to these French'Proceedings, equally injurious to them as to his subjects; and that they might better know them, it was thought the interview might best be held at some place near the Country where these Hostile proceedings were' carried on. His Majesty likewise ordered a present to the Six nations as a farther token of his affection for them. Accordingly Mr. Weiser in 1750 was sent to Onondaga by the Governor of Virginia and invited the Indians to come and treat at Fredericksburgh in that Province, and receive the Kings present, but could not prevail. The Governor of Virginia finding the French still continuing their Hostilities sent Commissioners in 1751 to the Indians at Ohio and delivered them the Kings present, and by a Belt of wampum proposed, that a strong House might be built near the Mouth of Mohongakela for their mutual protection. The Indians made answer, that they were well pleased with the proposal and would send that Belt to Onondaga, and join one of their own to it. Nothing was heard of this Belt; and the last year the French invaded the country of Ohio with a strong hand, whereupon the Indians residing there your Flesh and Blood, sent repeated messages to the Governor of Virginia, to send his Young Men to their assistance. But he being a Person of great forethought and prudence, still forebore to do it; and instead thereof sent two Messages by Mr, Andrew Montour to Onondaga, for your advice how to act. It happened that no Council could be Called at either time, The Chiefs of Onon 586 MANUSCRIPTS OF daga desired Mr. Montour to tell their Brother the Governor of Virginia, to act cautiously and let the French strike the first blow, The French then coming nearer and nearer Tanacharisson (otherwise called the half King) was sent to them by the united nations at Ohio together with the Shawanese & Delawares, to forewarn them off their Land. In the mean time other Chiefs of these several nations came to Virginia and Pensylvania, and told us what they had agreed upon in Council; to mit that they (the rest of their Chiefs,) should come to us and desire us to call our people from over the Allegheny Hills, to prevent Bloodshed between the English and French. But when these Indians returned, and found that the French paid no regard to their warning, but told them possitively that if they opposed their taking possession of that country, they would cut them off. They sent repeated Messages to tile Govrs. of Pensylvania and Virginia to apprize them of their the Indians imediate danger, telling them they would find nothing but the ashes of their Houses and their Bones if they did not forthwith send warriors and build them a House to fly to. Having a late Example before their Eyes, in that the French had fallen upon their Bretheren the Twightwees on a sudden, and killed them in their Houses as well as some English who were then trading with them. On this Melancholy Account the Governor of Virginia agreeable to the request of the Indians, sent people to Build a House at the Mouth of the Mohongahila, but before they had finished it, the French came down the River with a thousand Men and Eighteen Cannon and told the people who were building it, and were but Forty four in Number, that they must either fight or give up possession, which last they were obliged to do on Account of the Superior Force of the French. BRETHEREN This is the truth which we have thought proper to relate so particularly, that the prudent and Cautious Conduct of Virginia might be known to the Six Nations. As to pensylvania they have never sent a Warrior or built a Fort at Ohio. This Belt is given to confirm what is said and that you May remember what has been now related to you." A Belt here Mr Weiser's relation ends. SIR WILLIAM JOHNSON. 587 BRETHEREN You tell us we are open and defenceless. We are consulting how far it will be necessary to Fortifye our Frontiers. At the same time we expect you take care to keep your people from going over to the French. We are able when united with You to resist any force the French and their allies can bring against us. The following Paragraphs were to be spoken by the Gov, of New York in his own Name BRETHEREN You have told me, that this is the place of Treaty, that tis now three years ago since you were asked to smoak a pipe here That there are Commissioners, but they have never invited you to Smoak with them. It was their Duty on their Appointment to acquaint you with it and to invite you to smoak with them and to rekindle the Fire which was then almost extinguished, and if they had done it earlier and before I sent them Directions it would have been very agreeable to me. BRETHEREN You say the Houses here are full of Beaver This is a trading place and the Merchants have a right to Traffick for Beaver, or other Skins, which they sometimes pay for in Goods and sometimesin money. But as to what you say about Guns, and powder being sold to the French: I have made all the Enquiry I could into this matter and am Assured you are misinformed, for that neither Guns nor Powder are sold by any persons here to the French. BRETHEREN You tell me that whilst Collo Johnson had the Management of Indian Affairs you all lived Happy; that you loved him and he you, and that he has always been your good and trusty Friend. I am very sensible you had good reason to look upon him in this Light, and fully convinced that he is still your Friend. But as this is the place where the Antient Fire was kindled which was nearly burnt out, and as Collo Johnson for some Reason declined the management of Indian Affairs, it was thought proper to rekindle the Fire here by appointing Commissioners, whom I shall direct to 588 MIANUSCRIPTS OF receive and consult with you, upon all Business that may concern our Mutual Interests, and I expect that you will for the future, apply to them according to the Custom of Your forefathers, to tell you News, and in return to receive from them what shall be thought necessary to be imparted to You. And I will give them directions that they treat you with the Affection due to you as Bretheren. I will make tryall of them another year and if you do not meet with the kind Treatment you have aright to expect, complain to this Government and effectual Measures shall be taken for your Satisfaction. Gave a Belt The following was to be spoke by Mr Kellogg Interpreter from Massachusetts Bay. BRETHEREN We have agreed to tell all News and take Council together. We cannot part till we have told you the News from New England tho' at a considerable distance from you. The French have the same bad designs there as well as at Ohio; They are very fond to get Kennybeck River, We have News of their beginning a Fort at the head of that river; A priest of theirs has built a House a great way down that River; Governor Shirley has raised 800 Men and is gone down to drive them away and to Build an English Fort at the head or far up the said River Kennybec-We have News also that the French are building a Fort up Connecticut River Northward of Cowass; The Governor of New Hampshire has now sent a Company of Men up that River to enquire into that Fact, and if true to drive them imediately off. In another part of the Government of New Hampshire a Number of the St Franciss Indians have lately taken a family consisting of a Man a:.1 his Wife and three Children and carried them into Captivity from an out Settlement on Merrismack River, and this contrary to their solemn Engagement at a Treaty held with them. Wie have also News that a Number of Indians had Murdered Twenty one English Fishermen at Canso and had carried their Scalps to Cape Britton where they were well received and tis said rewarded. The Board then Adjourned till to Morrow Morning at 9 a Clock. SIR WILLIAM JOHNSON. 589 At a Meeting in the Court house at Albany on Thursday the 4 July 1754. A. M. PRESENT The four Gentlemen of the Council of New York, and All the Commissioners for the Several Governments. The plan for a Union of the Colonies was Debated, but nothing finally determined on. Adjourned to 3 oclock this afternoon. At a Meeting as above Thursday the 4, July 1754. P. M, PRESENT All the Commissioners for the several Governments. The plan for a Union was further considered but no resolves made thereupon. The Board receiving a Message from his Honour the Lieut. Governor of New York that the Indians were seated in order to speak to his Honour and the Commissioners. The Board adjourned to 9 o'clock to Morrow Morning and waited upon the Governor. At a meeting in the Court House at Albany on Fryday the 5 July 1754 A. M. PRESENT All the Commissioners from the Several Governments The Rejoinder of the Six nations spoke yesterday afternoon was read to the Board and was ordered to be minuted as follows. (The following speech is chiefly a Rejoinder to the Reply made to the Six nations on the 3d. Inst) BROTHER of New York and BRETHEREN of the Several Governments. We on our side are equally as much rejoiced as you have expressed yourselves on the renewing and brightening the Antient Covenant chain between all his Majesties Governments on the Continent and us of the Six united Nations. As to what the Governor of New York told us Yesterday relating to the Commissioners of Indian Affairs at Albany-We are much obliged to him for his promise to direct them to take 590 MANUSCRIPTS OF due Notice of us for the future-That he will try them for one year longer, and for giving us leave to acquaint this Government, if they do not treat us as Bretheren BTRETHEREN We have told the Governor of New York how Collo Johnson has beheaved to us and our Opinion of him, And the danger we thought ourselves in by his leaving off the Management of Indiarn Affairs- if he fail us we die —however we agree to what the Governor has proposed to us-he is Master of all to do what he pleases, And we Submit the whole affair to him. (Gave a Belt) BRETHEREN We are very thankfull to the King our Father for ordering Commissioners from so many Governments to meet here, in order to enquire into all matters relating to us and to put every thing upon a right footing. We rejoice that we have opened our Hearts to each other and we return the Governor and all the Commissioners from the several Governments our thanks for the same. BRETHEREN Sometime ago the King our Father sent a present to the Governor of Virginia, who sent a Messenger to the Six Nations that we should come down to Virginia and receive it, but we could not come; We have since been informed that the present was sent to Ohio. (the Speaker then proceeded to repeat the Substance of what was said to them Yesterday on the part of the Governmts of Virginia and Pensylvania by their Interpreter Mr Weiser.) We allow that the Road from Pensylvania to Ohio is no new Road but has been travelled these 30 years by the Traders We thank the Governor of Virginia for assisting the Indians at Ohio who are our Relations and Allies, And we approve of the Governor of Pensylvania's not having hitherto intermeddled in this affair. He is a wise and prudent man and will know his own time. We return the Governor of New York and all the other Governments our most hearty thanks (here the Speaker made bows to his Honor and all the Commissioners) for the promise of protection given us of our Lands and the Acknowledgment that the right of selling it is in us. (Gave a Belt) SIR WILLIAM JOHNSON. 591 BRETHEREN We put you in mind in our former Speech of the defenceless state of your Frontiers particularly of this City, of Schenectady and of the Country of the Five Nations. You told us Yesterday you were consulting about securing both yourselves and us-We beg you will resolve upon something Speedily-You are not safe from danger one day-The French have their Hatchet in their hands both at Ohio and in two places in New England —We dont know but this very Night they may attack us. One of the principal reasons why we desire you will be speedy in these matters is, that since Collo Johnson has been in this City, there has been a French Indian at his House, who took measure of the Wall round it, and made very narrow Observations on every thing there abouts. We think (Collo Johnson) in very great danger, because the French will take more than Ordinary pains either to kill him or take him prisoner, upon Account of his great Interest among us, and being also one of the Five Nations (Collo Johnson is one of their Sachems.) Upon this they give 4 Strings of Wampum. The Board then proceeded to consider the Plan for a Union but did not go thro' with it. Adjourned to 9 oClock to Morrow Morning. The Board having ordered the foregoing Rejoinder of the Six Nations to be only so far recorded in their proceedings, the remainder of their rejoinder is supplyed as follows, from the Records of Indian Affairs; that these proceedings of the Congress may compleat all that passed atthe publick Conference with the Indians. BRETHEREN There is an Affair about which our Hearts tremble and our minds are deeply concerned; this is the Selling of Rum in our Castles. It destroys many both of our Old and Young peopleWe request of all the Governments here present, that it may be forbidden to carry any of it amongst the Five Nations. BRETHEREN We are in great Fears about this Rum, it may cause Murder on both sides. We dont want it to be forbid to be Sold us in Albany, but that none may be brought to our Castiles. 592 MANUSCRIPTS OF The Cayougas now declare in their own name,that they will not allow any Rum to be brought up their River, and those who do must take the Consequences. BRETHEREN We the Mohawks of both Castles have also one request to make, which is that the people who are settled round about us, may not be Suffered to sell our People Rum; it keeps them all poor, makes them Idle and Wicked, and if they have any Money or Goods they lay it all out in Rum, it destroys Virtue and the progress of Religion amongst us. (the lower Castle of the Mohawks have a Chapel and an English Missionary belonging to it) We have a friendly request to make to the Governor and all the Commissioners here present-that they will help us to Build a Church at Cannojohery and that we may have a Bell in it, which together with the putting a stop to the Selling of Rum, will tend to make us Religious and lead better lives than we do now BRETHEREN We have now fully opened our hearts to you, except about the Land belonging to the Connojohery's which carried us to go down to New York last Year. The Governor knows what our Complaint is, and we now desire to know when that affair will be settled, as it was promised that Satisfaction should be given us on that Article. Here Hendrick ended his Speech. Mr Penn one of the Commissioners from Pensylvania declared that himself in Conjunction with the other Commissioners of that Government were about purchasing from the Six Nations a Tract of Land within the Boundaries of the said Government below the Latitude 42-and the Indians also then published their Intention of making the said Sale at the Commissioners Lodgings. The Governor spoke to the Indians and told them. That as to what they had said about Rum, he would give them an answer to morrow Morning, that he had received a present for them from the King their Father, and another from this Government which he would give to them to Morrow Morning, when he would also give them an answer to those other particulars which require one. As I have given you Satisfaction with respect to one of your Complaints about your Lands and that you have consented that an SIR WILLIAM JOHNSON. 593 Enquiry into any other shall be deferred untill I arrive at New York, I shall not now say any thing further to you on that affair. Extracted from the Records of Indian Affairs By PETER WRAXALL Secretary At a Meeting held in the Court House at Albany on Saturday the 6 July 1754 A. M. PRESENT All the Commissioners for Massachusetts Bay. William Pitkin & Roger Wolcott 3 Esqrs Commissioners for Connecticut The Commissioners for Rhode Island. John Penn, Isaac Norris Esqrs Commissioners for Pensylvania & Benja Franklin..... The Commissioners for Maryland. His Honour the Lieut Governor sent to the Board the Speech he proposes to make to the River Indians which the Board agreed to with a small addition which was sent in writing to his Honour. The Board having been informed by Mr Peters a That the I Lieut Governor of New York sent for him last night and told 4 him his Provisions were expended and he could no longer 4" maintain the Indians and Expected the Commissioners would "C maintain them, and gave him the List of what had been allowed " p Day to the Five Nations exclusive of the River Indians." The Board hereupon Resolved. That they would take the charge of supporting the Indians upon themselves. Meseck Weare and Henry Sherbourne Esqrs Commissioners from New Hampshire took their Seats. The Committee appointed the 1st Inst. to draw up a Representation of the present State of the Colonies with relation to the French, delivered the same to the Board, which was read and ordered to lye upon the Table for the Consideration of the Commissioners. The Secretary presented to the Board a Draught of the Speech which his honour proposed to deliver to the Six Nations this Afternoo- -And also the following Message from his Honour " That the Board would please to send him any Alterations or' Additions which they might think proper to be made to the said VOL. II. 38 594 MIANUSCRIPTS OF "draught-" That his honour intended when he made the Speech "to read to them the Act of the Genl Assembly of New York " concerning the Sale of Rum to the Indians, And that he also "recommended the request of the upper Castle of the Mohawks ";for a Church to the Board." The Secretary also brought back his Honours Approbation to them sail Addition proposed to be made to the Speech intended to be made to River Indians, which Speech is as follows. (( BRETHEREN I have sent for you here to give you fresh Assureances of the Great King your Fathers protection, and that we might with the Commissioners whom you now see Assembled from the Governments of Massachusetts Bay, New Hampshire, Connecticutt, Rhode Island, Pensylvania, and Maryland, Strengthen and brighten the Covenant Chain. We are glad to see you at this your old Meeting place and we do now in his Majesties name and in behalf of all his Colonies renew the Antient Covenant Chain of Friendship, that it may be Stronger and brighter than ever, which we recommend to you to preserve Clean and free from Rust, by a peaceable and Affectionate beheaviour to all your Bretheren and especially to those who live near you, and you may then with Confidence rely on the favour of this and all his Majesties Governments. As a proof of the King your Fathers tender regard to you I shall deliver you a present he has sent over for you, consisting of such necessaries as you may want. And the Commissioners from each of the Governments have contributed towards a present for you also, All which presents shall be here ready for you in the Afternoon. Elisha Williams Esqr a Commissr for Connecticutt took his Seat On a motion made and Seconded That a message be sent to his Honour the Lieut Governor of New York relateing to the answer he proposes to make to the Six Nations; Mr Hutchinson and Mr Franklin were appointed to prepare the same. Theodore Atkinson & Esqrs Commissioners for New Hampshire Richard Wibird.... took their Seats as did also Richard Peters Esqr one of Commissrs for Pensylvania. SIR WILLIAM JOHNSON. 595 Mr Hutchinson reported the following Message. "May it please your Honour. The Commissioners from. the Several Governments now met at Albany, observe that in the Speech your honour proposes to make this day to the Indians of the Six Nations, and which you have caused to be Communicated to the Board by their Secretary, no Notice is taken of the Complaints of the said Indians relating to their Lands. The Complaint seems by the Letter from the Right Honoble the Lords of Trade, which your Honour has laid before the board, to have been the Principal Occasion of this unusual and expensive Meeting of Commissioners from so many Colonies, And it appears by the last Answer from the Indians that their uneasiness still remains. The Commissioners therefore think it incumbent on them to pray your Honour that they may be acquainted with the Particulars of the Complaint and that they may have an Opportunity of consulting with your Honour proper Measures for removing the causes thereof." Which was read and unanimously agreed to, and it was thereupon Ordered that Mr Welles and Mr Pitkin wait upon his Honour the Lieut Governor of New Yorke with the same. Adjourned to 3 oClock this Afternoon. At a Meeting &c on Saturday the 6th July 1754. P. M. PRESENT All the Commissioners from Massachusetts Bay All the Commissioners from New Hampshire The Commissioners from Connecticutt Stephen Hopkins Esqr one of the Commissioners from Rhode Island Mr Welles reported to the Board, that he and Mr Pitkin had delivered the Message they were appointed in the Morning to deliver to his Honour the Lieut Governor of New York. The four Gentlemen of the Council of New York Martin Howard Junr Benja Franklin and took their Seats. Abraham Barnes Esqrs 9 Mr Murray delivered at the Board, His Honour the Lieut Governor's Answer in writing to the Message delivered to his 596 MANUSCRIPTS OF Honour in the Morning by Mr Welles and Mr Pitkin which was read and is as follows GENTLEMEN In answer to your Message to me of this Day I acquaint you, that Yesterday I had the Sachems of the Connajohery Castle before me in Council, to conclude the matter in Controversey between some Germans and one Teady Magin, relating to an Indian Purchase, that had occasioned the greatest uneasiness among the Indians of that Castle, which after two Meetings was then formerly and finally settled to the Satisfaction of all parties. I then took Occasion to observe to them, that at their Meeting on the 2d Inst. I desired them to open their Minds fully and that I expected they would then have laid all their Complaints before me. That as to what they had mentioned in their public Speech on the 4th Inst. I was not acquainted with any other particular Complaints, until I came to this place, being abroad on the Circuit at the time they made them at New York, and then I promised as soon as I returned thither, I would look into them, and do them all the Justice that lay in my Power, with which they declared themselves well Satisfied and thanked me. JAMES DELANCEY Albany 6th July 1754. The Board being obliged to attend at the Interview of the Schaticook and River Indians. Adjourned to Monday Morning at 9 aClock At a Meeting in the Court House at Albany on Monday the 8 July 1754. A. M. PRESENT William Johnson a & > Esqrs Two of the Council of New York & William Smith ) All the Commissioners The Speech proposed by his Honour to be made to the Indians of the Six Nations having been again read to the Board, and the Complaint of the Indians relative to their Lands coming under their Consideration; The Board were Acquainted that Mr William Livingston and Mr William Alexander two of the Heirs or Devisies SIR WILLIAM. JOHNSON, 597 of Philip Livingston Esqr deceased the Proprietor or Patentee of the Lands, on which Canajohery Castle stands, had declared their Readiness to give up all rights to said Patent's or such parts as shall be thought necessary. It was ordered that sd Mr Livingston and Mr Alexander be informed that the Board desired to Speak with them. Mr Livingston and Mr Alexander being present informed the Board that their Father was one among other Patentees of the Lands mentioned, That they were interested one eighth each of them in their Fathers right. The Circumstances of his Title they had made no Enquiry into, but were ready to make any Resignation which either Justice or the Publick Service required. The Board being informed that his Honour the Lieut Governor desired a Gentleman from each Government might be appointed to be present with him in making Enquiry of the Indians of the Cannojohery Castle, how far they were satisfied respecting their Lands, Mr Peters and Mr Howard were appointed to wait on his honour and acquaint him that the Board agreed to the proposal. Accordingly Mr Hutchinson was appointed for Massachusetts Bay Colo Atkinson "." for New Hampshire Colo Wolcott G <6 for Connecticut Mr Hlopkins c " for Rhode Island Mr Norris 44 "4 for Pensylvania Colo Tasker " " for Maryland Joseph Murray and John Chambers Esqrs of the Council of New York took their seats. His Honours draught of the Speech he proposes to.make to the 6 Nations which was delivered to the Board the 6th Inst was read and after debate had thereon relative to the Sale of Rum amongst them, and the Connojohary's desire about a Church, some Alterations and Additions to it were agreed to be proposed to his Honour, The Representation of the present state of the Colonies was again read through, but no final Resolution thereon agreed to. The Answer of the Scaakticook and River Indians to the speech made them the 6th Inst. were read and are as follows. 598 MANUSCRIPTS OF The Speech of the Schaakticook Indians, FATHER We are glad that the Governor sees his Children now before him, We are small in Number but next time we hope we shall be more. Your Honour may see that we are but young and unexperienced, our Antient people being almost all Dead, so that we have no Body to give us any advice but we will do as our fathers have done before us. Gave a Belt,. FATHER This Belt came from our Forefathers and we will be true and faithfully to the King as they were. Gave a Belt They gave also to the Governor a small Bundle of Skins & desired that the Sale of' Rum might be Stopped at Schaackticook and that if they want it, they will come and buy it at Albany. The Speech of the River Indians. FATHERS. We are greatly rejoiced to see you all here. It is by the Will of Heaven that we are met here, and we thank you for this Opportunity of seeing you altogether as it is a long while since we have had such a one. FATHERS. Who sit present here We will just give you a short relation of the long Friendship which hath Subsisted between the white people of this Country and us. Our forefathers had a Castle on this River, as one of them walked out he saw something on the River, but was at loss to know what it was, he took it at first, for a great Fish, he ran into the Castle and gave Notice to the other Indians. Two of our forefathers went to see what it was, and found it a Vessel with Men in it. They immediately joined hands with the People in the Vessell and became Friends. They. white people told them they should not come any further up the River at that time and said to them they would return back from whence they came and come again in a Years time. According to their promise they returned back in a Years time and came as far up the River as where the Old Fort stood, Our forefathers invited them a Shore and said to them, here we will give you a place, to make you a Town, it shall be from this place up to such a Stream (meaning where the Patroons Mill now Stands) and from SIR WILLIAM JOHNSON. 599 the River back up to the Hill. Our Fore fathers told them. tho' they were now a small People they would in time Multiply and fill up the Land, they had given them. After they were a Shoar sometime, Some other Indians who had not seen them before5 loked feircely at them and Our Forefathers observing it & seeing the white People so few in Number, lest they should be destroyed took and Sheltered them under their Arms; but it turned out that those Indians did not desire to destroy them, but wished also to have the said White People for their Friends At this time which we have now spoken of, The white People were small, but we were very Numerous and strong. We defended them in that low state, but now the Case is altered. You are Numerous and strong we are few and Weak, Therefore we expect that you will Act by us in these Circumstances as we did by you in those we have just now related. We view you now as a very large Tree which has taken deep Root in the Ground, whose Branches are spread very wide, We stand by the Body of this Tree and we look round to see if there be any who endeavour to hurt it, And if it should so happen that any are powerful enough to destroy it we are ready to fall with it. Gave a Belt FATHERS You see how early we made Friendship with You, We tied each other in a very strong Chain, that Chain has not yet been broken, We now clean and rub that Chain to make it Brighter and stronger, And we determine on our part that it never shall be broken, and we hope you will take care that neither you or any one else shall break it, And We are greatly rejoiced that Peace and Friendship have so long subsisted between us Gave a Belt FATHERS dont think strange at what we are about to say, We would say something respecting our Lands when the White People purchased from time to time of us, they said they only wanted to purchase the low Lands, they told us the Hilly Land was good for nothing and that it was full of Wood and Stones; But now We see People living all about the Hills and Woods altho7 they have 600 MANUSCRIPTS OF not purchased the Lands-When we enquire of the People who live on these Lands what right they have to them, they reply to us, that we are not to be regarded, and that these Lands belong to the King, but we were the first possessors of them, and when the King has paid us for them, then they may say they are his. Hunting now is grown very Scarce and we are not like to get our livings that way. Therefore we hope our Fathers will take care that We are paid for Our Lands that we may live. Gave a Belt Make a present of a bundle of Skins. The Board then Adjourned to 3 o Clock this Afternoon. At a Meeting &c Monday 8 July 1754. P. M. PRESENT All the Commissioners except Colo Atkinson, Mr Norris, and the Commissioners for Maryland. The Board proceeded in their Consideration upon the plan for a Union but did not go thro7 with it. The Speech proposed to be made to the 6 Nations was returned to the Board from his Honour with the Alterations and Additions proposed by the Board this Morning. ORDERED That the said Speech lay upon the Table till some further matters relating to it be agreed on by the Board. The Committee Appointed in the Morning to be present with the Lieut Governor of New York at a Conferrence with the Connojahery Indians returned from the same and Reported as follows That his Honour enquired of the Indians whether they had not expressed themselves Satisfied with the Measures he had taken concerning their Lands and the Promise that he would enquire further into the Affair when he came to New York. To which they replyed. That they were sensible his Honour was at Albany when they made their Complaints at New York last Year-that he had told them he had now left the Papers there, but would enquire into it when he came there-That they were SIR WILLIAM JOHNSON. 601 willing to try one Year more and if matters were not made up by the Governor whom they looked upon as their Elder Brother, but neglected as they used to be, they would send to all their other Brothers (pointing to the Commissioners) for their AssistanceAnd that they agreed to this the rather as there were French Indians in Town and they did not think it convenient to have any Difference before them. Upon which his Honour again assured them he would enquire into their affairs in order to their being Satisfied especially as he had the Kings orders for it. The Board receiving a Message from his Honour that the Sachems of the Six Nations were attending to be spoke to. The Board adjourned to 9 oClock to Morrow Morning and waited upon the Governor. At a Meeting in the Court House at Albany on Tuesday the 9 July 1754. A. M. PRESENT Joseph Murray and William Smith Esqrs of the Council of New York All the Commissioners Except Collo Partridge & Mr Hopkins The public Conference between his Honour the Lieut Governor of New York and the Commissrs from the Several Governments with the Sachems of the Six Nations Yesterday Evening was read and ordered to be entered as follows. BRETHEREN You told me your Hearts were deeply concerned at the sad effects which may arise from Selling Rum in your Respective Countries. I will give Orders, that the Laws already made for preventing the Sale of this Liquor among you shall be Strictly put in Execution and whatever further provision in the Law is necessary I will endeavour it shall be made, that you may see I take care of your Health and your peace, which are hurt and disturbed by the use of this Liquor among you of the Five upper Nations. And as to what you of the Mohawks have said, I shall consider how far it may be necessary to restrain the people living round you from selling Rum, and if I can think of a proper remedy for this evil, I will endeavor to apply it. 602 MANUSCRIPTS OF BRETHREN of the upper Castle of the Mohawks. I am well pleased with your earnest request to have a Church Built amongst you, and I shall do every thing in my power to promote so good a Work. And it is very agreeable to me and the Commissioners from all the Governments present to find a Disposition in you to receive the Christian Religion BRETHEREN As I have given you Satisfaction with respect to one of your Complaints about your Lands which lay heavy on your minds, and have assured you that I shall endeavour to do you Justice, as to the rest when I come to New York, I shall not say anything farther to you on that Affair now. The Governor being informed by the Interpreter that they choose to have the pouder divided on the Hill, told them it was in his Opinion better for them to have it sent to Schenectady. HENDRICK Answered for them, just as his Honour pleased, who told them, he would order the pouder to Schenectady and the Rum above the Settlements, with which they expressed themselves Satisfied. His HONOUR then said I have now done speaking to You but before I cover up the Fire I must recommend it to You to behave quietly and peaceably to all your Bretheren and their Castle in your return home. Hendrick then Replyed Your Honour told us you now covered up the Fire we are highly pleased that all things have been so amicably Settled, and hope that all that has passed between us may be strictly observed on both sides. BRETHEREN of the Several Governments We hope that you will not fail in the Covenant Chain wherewith we have mutually bound ourselves, and now so solemnly renewed and Strengthened. If we dont hold fast by this Chain of Friendship our Enemies will laugh at us to Scorn. BRETHEREN We wish you would All contribute to provide some Provision SIR WILLIAM JOHNSON. 603 for us in our way home, which will Effectually prevent our People from Killing the Inhabitants Cattle, And we desire you will provide some Waggons for us to go to Schenectady. We think this Expence will fall to heavy upon one Province as we have the Presents from all to carry up. We beg we may all take care of the Tree of Friendship and preserve it by our Mutual Attention from any Injuries; we will take care of it on our sides, and we hope our Bretheren will do so on theirs We wish this Tree of Friendship may grow up to great heigth and then we shall be a powerful People. BRETHEREN We the united Nations shall rejoice in the Increase of our Strength, so that all other Nations may stand in Awe of us. BRETHEREN I will just tell you what a People we were formerly, If any of our Enemies rose against us, we had no Occasion to lift up our whole hand against them, for our little Finger was sufficient And as we have now made so strong a Confederacy, if we are truly Earnest therein we may retrieve the Antient Glory of the Five Nations. BRETHEREN We have now done, but one word we must add, the Interpreter, if the French continue their Hostalities will want Assistance, Three or Four to be joined with him but this matter we submit to the Governor. We have now fully finished all that we have to say. THE GOVERNOR Replyed. BRETHEREN It gives me and all the Commissioners here present great Satisfaction, that this interview has concluded so Amicably on all sides. I have Ordered 30 Wagons to be provided for your Service which I expect here to Morrow Morning, and I have Ordered Provisions for you, to serve you on your Journey. I hope by this present Union we shall grow up to a great heigth, and be as powerfull and Famous as you were of Old. As to the Interpreter when the Circumstances of this Country require it, he shall have the Necessary Assistance, And I Assure you in the Name of this Government and all the Governments 60! MANUSCRIPTS OF here present, that we shall endeavour to extend and preserve the Covenant Chain by every possible method in our Power. They asked his Honour when himself and the Commissioners proposed to return home~ His Honour answered, That they had some Matters yet to settle about the Union and then they should set out for their respective Habitations, The Governor then in his own name and that of the Commissioners, wished them a good Journey and they returned the Compliment and then the Conferrences broke up, The Answers of the Lieut Governor and the Commissioners to the Schaakticook and River Indians was next read and ordered to be entered as follows. The Answer to the Schaaktecook Indians, CHILDREN We condole with you on the loss of your Old and experienced People. A String CHILDREN I and the Commissioners from the other Governmts here present are glad to see that Although you are Young and unexperienced, yet you are willing to take advice, and are determined to remain faithfull to the King and friendly to all his Subjects A Belt Answer to the River Indians CHILDREN We are glad to find that you Treasure up in your Memories the mutual instances of Friendship between our ancestors and yours. The Remembrance of that Friendship will descend to our posterity, and we desire you to hand it down to yours. And altho5 there is a great alteration in Circumstances since our predecessors first came among you, yet we have not less affection for you than they had. A Belt. CHILDREN Your brightening and Strengthening the Covenant Chain is well pleasing to me and the Commissioners. We acknowledge you have never broken it) We have likewise preserved it entire and are determined to continue to do so. A Belt. SIR WILLIAM JOHNSON. 605 CHILDREN You complain that some of the People of this Province are. in possession of your Lands which you never sold. This is a Complaint which Affects Persons that live at a distance; I have ordered notice to be given them of it, and if upon Enquiry into the affair, it shall appear that you have been injured, I will endeavour to get you redressed. But I shall observe to you that the constant method of granting Lands in this Province is and has been by Licence from the Governor to purchase from the Indians; and upon the purchase being returned before him in Council, he with their advice orders a Patent; and that most of these Lands concerning which you complain were patented when you were Children, some before any of you were born Ordered that the following Minute be made That the last paragraph of the foregoing answer to the River Indians about the manner of patenting Lands in this Province, beginning with the words, " I shall observe7 —was an addition made by his Honour to the draught sent him Yesterday by this Board. Collo. Johnson Mr. Chambers k thr Collo. Patridge & Mr. Hopkins took their Seats The Plan of the union was Debated and agreed upon and Mr. Franklin was desired to make a Draught of it as now concluded upon. Adjourned to 5 oclock this Evening. At a meeting &c on Tuesday the 9 July 1754. P. M. PRESENT His Honour the Lieutenant Governor The four Gentlemen of the Council of New York & All the Commissioners Except Mr. Franklin absent by his appointment in the Morning. The draught of the Representation &c was read and considered Paragraph by Paragraph, some amendments made, and the whole was agreed to and ordered to be minuted as follows. THAT his Majesties Title to the northern Continent of America appears to be founded on the Discovery thereof first made, and 606 MANUSCRIPTS OF the Possession thereof first taken in 1497, under a Commission from Henry the 7th. of England to Sebastian Cabot. That the French have possessed themselves of several parts of this Continent which by Treaties have been ceded and confirmed to them. That the right of the English to the whole Sea Coast from Georgia on the South to the River St. Lawrence on the north excepting the Island of Cape Breton, and the Islands on the Bay of St. Lawrence, remains plain and indisputable. That all the Lands or Countries westward from the Atlantick Ocean to the South Sea, between 48 and 34 Degrees north Latitude were expressly included in the Grant of King James the lst, to divers of his Subjects, so long since as the Year 1606, and afterwards confirmed in 1620-and under this Grant the Colony of Virginia claims extent as far west as the South Sea, and the Antient Colonies of the Massachusetts Bay and Connecticutt were by their Respective Charters made to extend to the said South Sea, so that not only the Right to the Sea Coast, but to all the Inland Countries from Sea to Sea has at all times been asserted by the Crown of England. That the Province of nova Scotia or Accadie hath known and Determinate Bounds by the Original Grant from King James the 1st. and that there is abundant evidence of the Sense which the French had of these Bounds while they were in Possession of it, and that these Bounds being thus known, the said Province by the Treaty of Utrecht according to its antient Limits, was ceded to great Britain and remained in Possession thereof until the Treaty of Aix la Chapelle, by which it was Confirmed; but by said Treaty it is stipulated that the Bounds of the said Province shall be determined by Commissarys &c. That by the Treaty of Utrecht the Country of the Five Cantons of the Iroquois, is expressly acknowledged, to be under the Dominion of the Crown of Great Britain. That the Lake Champlain formerly called Lake Iroquois and the Country Southward of it as far as the Dutch or English settlements, the Lakes Ontario, Erie and all the Countries adjacent, have by all Antient authors French and English been allowed to SIR WILLIAM JOHl;SON. 607 belong to the Five Cantons or nations, and the whole of these Countries long before the said Treaty of Utrecht, were by said nations, put under the protection of the Crown of Great Britain. That by the Treaty of Utrecht, there is reserved to the French a liberty of Frequenting the Countries of the five nations and other Indians in Friendship with Great Britain for the sake of Commerce, as there is also to the English a Liberty of frequenting the Countries of those in Friendship with France for the same purpose. That after the Treaty of Utrecht the French built several fortresses in the Country of the Five Nations, and a very strong one at a place called Crown point to the South of Lake Champlain. That the French Court hath evidently since the Treaty of Aix le Chapelle, made this northern Continent more than ever the object of its attention. That the French have most unjustly taken possession of part of the province of nova Scotia and in the River St. John's and other parts of the said province, they have built strong Fortresses, and from this River they will have during the winter and spring Season a much easier Communication between France and Canada, than they have heretofore had, and will be furnished with a Harbour more commodiously situated for the annoying the Brittish Colonies by Privateers and Men of war than Louisbergh itself. That they have taken possession of and begun a settlement at the head of the River Kennebeck within the bounds of the Province of Main, the most convenient situation for affording support and safe Retreat to the Eastern Indians in any of their attempts upon the Government of New England. That it appears by Information of the natives, the French have been making preparations for another settlement at a place called Cohass on Connecticut River near the head thereof, where it is about Ten Miles distant from a Branch of Merrimack River & from whence there is a very near and easy Communication with the Abnekais Indians who are Settled on the River St. Francois, about Forty Miles from the River St. Lawrence; and it is certain that the Inhabitants of New Hampshire in which Province this Cohass 608 MANUSCRIPTS OF is supposed to lye, have been interrupted and impeded by the French Indians from making any settlement there. That since the Treaty of Aix la Chapelle, the French have increased the number of their Forts in the Country of the great Lakes and on the Rivers which run into the Mississipa, and are securing a Communication between the two Colonies of Louissania and Canada and at the same time putting themselves into a Capacity of annoying the Southern British Colonies and preventing any further Settlement of his Majesties Dominirons. That they have been gradually increasing their Troops in America, transporting them in their ships of war which return to France with a Bare Compliment of Men, leaving the rest in their Colonies, and by this means they are less observed by the Powers of Europe than they would be, if Transports as usual heretofore were provided for this purpose. That they have taken Prisoners, divers of his Majesties subjects. trading in the Country of the Iroquois and other Inland parts, and plundered such Prisoners of several Thousand Pounds Sterling, and they are continually exciteing the Indians to destroy or make Prisoners, The Inhabitants of the Frontiers of the Brittish Colonies which Prisoners are carried to Canada and a price equal to what Slaves are usually sold for in the Plantations is demanded for their Redemption and Release. That they are continually drawing off the Indians from the British Interest and have lately persuaded one half the Onondaga Tribe with many from the other Nations along with them, to remove to a place called Oswegachie on the River Cadaraqui where they have built them a Church and Fort; and many of the Sennecas the most numerous Nation, appear to be Wave ing and rather inclined to the French And it is a Melancholly Consideration that not more than 150 Men of all the Several Nations have attended this Treaty altho' they had Notice that all the Governments would be here by their Commissioners and that a large present would be given. That it is the evident design of the French to Surround the Brittish Colonies, to fortifie themselves on the back thereof, to take and keep Possession of the Heads of all the important Rivers, to draw over the Indians to their Interest and with the help of such Indians added to such Forces as are already arrived and may SIR WILLIAM JOHNSON, 609 hereafter be sent from Europe, to be in a Capacity of making a General Attack on the Several Governments; and if at the same time a Strong Naval Force be sent from France, there is the utmost Danger that the whole Continent will be Subjected to that Crown, and that the Danger of such a Naval Force, is not merely imaginary, may be Argued from past Experience, for if it had not been for the most Extraordinary Interposition of Heaven every Sea poit Town on the Continent in the Year 1746. might have been ravaged and destroyed by the Squadron under the Command of the Duke de Anville, notwithstanding the then declining state of the French and the very flourishing State of the British Navy and the farther advantage accruing to the English from the possession of Cape Breton. That the French find by experience they are able to make greater and more sure advantages upon their Neighbours in peace than in War. What they unjustly possessed themselves of after the Peace of Utrecht, they now pretend they have a Right to hold by Virtue of the Treaty of Aix le Chapelle until the true boundary between the English and the French be settled by Commissarys, but their Conquest made during the War they have been obliged to restore. That the French Affairs relative to this Continent, are under the Direction and constantly Regarded by the Crown and Ministry, who are not insensible how great a Stride they would make towards an universal Monarchy if the British Colonies were added to their Dominions, and consequently the whole Trade of North America engrossed by them That the said Colonies being in a divided disunited State there has never been any joint Exertion of their Force or Counsels to Repel or defeat the Measures of the French, and particular Colonies are unable and unwilling to maintain the cause of the whole. That there has been a very great Neglect of the Affairs of the Iroquois, or as they are commonly called the Indians of the Six Nations, and their Friendship and Alliance has been improved to private purposes, for the sake of the trade with them and the purchase or Acquisition of their Lands, more than to the public Service. That they are Supplied with Rum by the Traders in vast and VOL. II. 39 610 MANUSCRIPTS OF almost Incredible Quantities, the Laws of the Colonies now in force being insufficient to restrain the Supply, and the Indians of every Nation are frequently Drunk and abused in their Trade, and their Affections thereby alienated from the English; They often wound and Murder one another in their Liquor, and to avoid Revenge flee to the French, and perhaps more have been lost by these means than by the French Artifices. That purchases of Lands from the Indians by private persons for small Trifling Considerations have been the cause of great uneasiness and discontents, And if the Indians are not in Fact imposed on and injured, Yet they are apt to think that they have been, and indeed they appear not fit to be entrusted at Large with the Sale of their own Lands, and the Laws of some of the Colonies, which makes such Sales void, unless the allowance of the Government be first obtained, seem to be well founded. That the granting or patenting vast Tracts of Land to private Persons or Companys without conditions of speedy Settlements has tended to prevent the Strengthening the Frontiers of the particular Colony where such Tracts lye, and been predjudicial to the State. That it seems absolutely necessary that speedy and effectual measures be taken to secure the Colonies from the Slavery they are threatened with-That any further advances of the French should be prevented, and the encroachments already made removed. That the Indians in Alliance or Friendship with the English be constantly regarded under some wise Direction or Superintendency. That endeavours be used for the recovery of those Indians who are lately gone over to the French and for securing those that remain. That some Discreet Person or Persons be appointed to reside constantly with each Nation of Indians, such Person to have no concern in Trade, and duly to Communicate all advices to the Superintendents-That the Trade with the said Indians be well regulated and made Subservient to the Public Interest, more than to private gain-That there be Forts Built for the Security of each Nation and the better Carrying on the Trade with them-That Warlike Vessels be provided sufficient to Maintain his Majesties right to a free Navigation on the Several Lakes-That all future SIR WILLIAM JOHNSON. 611 Purchases of Lands from the Indians be void unless made by the Government where such Lands lye, and from the Indians in a Body in their Public Councils-That the patentees or possessors of large unsettled Territories be enjoined to cause them to be Settled in a Reasonable time on pain of forfeiture-That the Complaints of the Indians relative to any Grants or possessions of their Lands fraudulently obtained be enquired into, and all injuries redressedThat the Bounds of those Colonies which extend to the South Sea, be contracted, and limitted by the Alleghenny or Apalachian Mountains, and that Measures be taken for Settling from time to time, Colonies of his Majesties Protestant Subjects, Westward of said Mountains in Convenient Cantons to be Assigned for that Purpose, And finally that there be a Union of his Majesties several Governments on the Continent, that so their Councils, Treasure and Strength may be employed in due proportion against their common Enemy. All which is Submitted Adjourned till 9 a Clock to Morrow Morning. At a Meeting in the Court House at Albany On Wednesday the 10th July 1754. A M. PRESENT. Joseph Murray and William Smith EsqrS of the Council of New York & All the Commissioners (Except Henry Sherbourne Esqr one of the Commissioners for New Hampshire. Mr Franklin reported the Draught in a New Form of a Plan of a Union, agreeable to the Determination of Yesterday, which was Read Paragraph by Paragraph and Debated, And the further consideration of it deferred to the Afternoon. Adjourned to 3 oClock this Afternoon. At a Meeting &c on Wednesday the 10 July 1754. P. M. PRESENT His Honour the Lieutenant Governor. & the 4 Gentlemen of the Council of New York. & All the Commissrs for the Respective Governments. ~ The Consideration of the Plan of a Union was resumed, which Plan is as follows. 612 MANUSCRIPTS OF PLAN OF A PROPOSED UNION of the Several Colonies of JMassachusetts Bay, Jew Hampshire, Connecticut, Rhode Island, fewu York, JVcw Jerseys, Pensylvania, Maryland, Virginia, Jorth Carolina, and SouthCarolina; for their mutual defence and Security, and for extending the British Settlements in Jforth smerica. That Humble Application be made for an Act of the Parliament of Great Blitain, by Virtue of which one General Government may be formed in America, including all the said Colonies, within and under which Government each Colony may retain its present constitution, except in the particulars wherein a Change may be directed by the said Act as hereafter follows. Presidt Geni. That the said General Government be administred by a President General, to be appointed and supported by the Crown Grand ouncilAnd a Grand Council to be Chosen by the Representatives of the People of the Several Colonies, met in their respective Assemblies Election of That within Months after the passing of such Assemblies. Act The house of Representatives in the Several Assemblies that happen to be sitting within that time, or that shall be specially for that purpose Convened, may and shall choose Members for the Grand Council, in the following Proportions; that is to say. Massachusetts Bay................... 7 New Hampshire.................... 2 Connecticutt.......................... 5 Rhode Island............. 2 New York......................... 4 New Jerseys............3........., 3 Pensylvania..................... 6 Maryland.................... 4 Virginia...............,........ 7 North Carolina................. 4 South Carolina.......,...,.......... 4 48 pace of fistWho shall meet for the first time at the City of PhiladeliMeeting. f phia in Pensylvania, being called by the President General as soon as conveniently may be after his Appointment SIR WILLIAM JOHNSON. 613 NewElection. That there shall be a new Election of Members for the Grand Council every Three Years; and on the Death or Resignation of any Member, his place shall be Supplyed by a new Choice at the next Sitting of the Assembly of the Colony he represented. Proportion of That after the first Three Years when the Proportion of Members aferafirst3 Money arising out of each Colony to the General Treasury can be known the Number of Members to be chosen for each'Colony shall fiom time to time in all ensuing Elections be regulated by that Proportion (Yet so as that the Number to be chosen by any one Province, be not more than Seven nor less than two.) Getlngs Cof That the Grand Council shall meet once in every cil. Year, and oftner if Occasion require, at such time and place as they, shall adjourn to, at the last preceeding Meeting, or Call. as they shall be called to meet at by the President General on any Emergency, he having first obtained in writing the consent of Seven of the Members to such Call, and sent due and timely notice to the whole. Speaker. That the Grand Council have power to chuse their Speaker and shall neither be desolved, prorogued, nor continue continuance. sitting longer than Six weeks at one time, without their own consent or the Special Command of the Crown. Members Al- That the Members of the Grand Council shall be lowance. allowed for their Service Ten Shillings Sterling p Diem during their Sessions, and Journey to and from the place of Meeting; Twenty Miles to be reckoned a Days Journey. Assent of That the Assent of the President General be requisitet President General. to all Acts of the Grand Council; and that it be his His Duty. Office and Duty to cause them to be carried into Execution. power of That the President General with the Advice of the Prest and Grand Council Treaties. Grand Council, hold or direct all Indian Treaties in which the General Interest or Wellfare of the Colonies mnay be concerned, Peace&war.and make peace or declare War with Indian Nations. India Trade. That they make such Laws as they Judge Necessary for regulating all Indian Trade. 61.4 KMANUSCRIPTS OF Indisa Pur, That they make all Purchases from Indians for the chases. Crown, of Lands now not within the Bounds of particular Colonies, or that shall not be within their Bounds when some of them are reduced to more Convenient Dimensions New Settle- That they make new Settlements on such purchases, merts. by granting Lands in the Kings Name reserving a quit Rent to the Crown for the use of the General Treasury. Las to gov-, That they make Laws for regulating and Governing ern theit. such new Settlements, till the Crown shall think fitt to form them into particular Governments. Raise Soldiers That they raise and pay Soldiers, and Build Forts for the defence, of any of the Colonies, and Equip Vessells of Force to guard the Coasts and protect the Trade on the Ocean, LNtesto mLakes or Great Rivers: But they shall not Impress press. Men, in any Colony without the consent of its Legislature - That for these purposes they have power to make Laws and Power to lay and leavy such general Duties, Imposts or Taxes as to make laws du.g ties &ca them shall appear most equal and just, Considering the Ability and other Circumstances of the Inhabitants in the several Colonies and such as may be collected with the least Inconvenience to the People, rather discourging Luxury, than loading Industry with unnecessary Burthens. Treasurer. That they may appoint a General Treasurer and a particular Treasurer in each Government when necessary, and from to time may order the sums in the Treasuries of each Government into the General Treasury, or draw on them for Special Payments Money how as they find most convenient. Yet no money to issue to issue, but by joint orders of the President General and Grand Council, Except where sums have been appropriated to particular purposes, and the President General is previously impowered by an act to draw for such sums. Accounts. That the General accounts shall be yearly settled and reported to the several Assembly's. Quorum. That a Quorum of the Grand Council impowered to act with the President General, do consist of Twenty five members among whom, there shall be one or more from a Majority of the Colonies SXIR W-LLIAM JOHNSONo 615 Laws to be That the Laws made by them for the purposes aforesaid transmitted. shall not be repugnant, but as near as may be agreeable to the Laws of England, and shall be transmitted to the King in Council for approbation as soon as may be, after their passing, and if not disapproved within Three Years after presentation to remain in Force. Deathofprest. That in case of the Death of the President General, the Speaker of the Grand Council for the time being shall succeed and be vested with the same powers and Authorities to continue until the Kings Pleasure be known. That all Military Commission Officers whether for Land or Sea Officers how Service to act under this General Constitution shall be apointed nominated by the president General; but the approbation of the Grand Council is to be obtained before they receive their Commissions. And all Civil officers are to be nominated by the Grand Council, and to receive the president Generals approacancies bation before they officiate: But in Case of a vacancy howsupplyed. by Death or removal of any officer Civil or Military under this Constitution, The Governor of the Province in which such vacancy happens, may appoint till the pleasure of the President General and Grand Council, can be known. That the Particular Military as well as Civil Establishments in each Colony remain in their present State this General Constitution notwithstanding; and that on sudden Emergencies, any Colony may EacyhColony defend itself, and lay the accounts of Expence thence may defend itelf on emer- arisen before the president General and Grand Council gency. who may allow and order payment of the same, as far as they judge such accounts just and reasonable. After Debate on the foregoing Plan RESOLVED That the Commissioners from the Several Governments, be desired to lay the same before their Respective Constituents for their Consideration, and that the Secretary to this Board transmit a Copy thereof with this vote thereon, to the Governor of each of the Colonies which have not sent their Commissioners to this Congress. His Honour proposed to the Board, that agreeable to their 616 MANUSCRIPTS OF Resolutions of the 24 June they would now consider, the Expediency of Building Forts in the Indian Country. It was determined that considering the present wavering Disposition of the Sennecas, it was expedient that a Fort should be Built in their Country at a place called Irondequat or Tierondequat. Ordered That a Committee be appointed to consider what further Forts may be necessary in the Country of the Six Nations, and that each Colony name a Member for this Committee. ORDERED That Mr Chambers and Mr Peters be a Committee to revise the Minutes settled and agreed to by this Board. Adjourned till to Morrow Morning at 9 aClock. At a Meeting at the Court House in Albany on Thursday the 11 July 1754. A. M. PRESENT His Honour the Lieut Governor & the four Gentleman of the Council of New York. All the Commissioners from the Several Governments Except William Pitkin Esqr one of the Commissrs for Connecticutt Mr Welles from the Committee appointed to consider what other Forts may be Necessary. REPORTED) " That they had carefully considered the present State of the Frontiers of these Colonies and are of Opinion that Several other Forts at particular Passes are equally necessary with that proposed at Tierondequat. That as there is no probability of their being effected in the present disunited State of the Colonies, and the General Union may make some of them unnecessary. We Apprehend some inconveniences may arise. If the Board should go further into the Consideration of that matter at this Time. His Honour put the Question, Whether the Board would Accept of this Report. And it passed in the Affirmative. Certain proposals from William Johnson Esqr relative to the Six Nations and for defeating the Designs of the French; Also Certain Considerations offerred by Thomas Pownall Esqr towards a General Plan of the Measures of the English provinces were read at the Board. SIR WILLIAM JOHNSON. 617 It was thereupon Voted that Mr Franklin be desired to give the thanks of this Board to the said Mr Johnson and Mr Pownall and desire them to Suffer Copies of said Papers to be taken by the Commissioners of each Colony for the Consideration of their Respective Governments. ORDERED That all his Majesties Governments on this Continent may have Liberty from time to time to take Copies of the Proceedings of this Congress or any parts thereof paying for the same, and that no Other Copies be delivered by the Secretary. ORDERED That upon the Secretarys leaving this Province, The Records of these proceedings of the Commissioners of the Several Governments be lodged in the Secretarys Office in the Province of New York. Mr Chambers and Mr Peters Reported That they had Examined these Minutes of the Proceedings of this Congress, and find them right And then His Honour the Lieut Governor of New York and the Commissioners of the Several Governments rose without any further Adjournment. N New York 21 Sepr 1754A true Copy of the Proceedings of the Congress held at Albany in the Mcnths of June & July. Compared & Examined by me P)ETER WRAXALL Secrety 618 MANUSCRIPTS OF CORRESPONDENCE, &c. TH.E EXAMINATION OF COLL~. WILLIAM JOHNSON taken before a Committee of his Majesty's Councilfor the Province of Jew York at the City of Jew York the third day of October 1747. The Examinate Says, He is of Opinion, That some Person wllo has Influence over the Indians, should be sent to Oswego, and intrusted with presents to be distributed among some of the Six Nations, and the Far Indians, In order to preserve them in their present good Disposition. That when he first engaged in the Management of the Indian affairs, Their Sachims were chiefly in the French Interest, and had actually received Belts of Wampum from the French, Which:they have since given up, and in lieu of those Belts have accepted of others from this Government. That if some proper Measures be not taken to Secure and preserve them in their present good disposition, he is of opinion It may greatly discourage them, as they have met with so many Disappointments by the Expedition not being carried into Execution. That the Six Nations have been retained from Hunting this Summer by his Excellency the Governour, that they might be ready to Act as Occasion should require, and are now by that means in want-of many Necessarys both for themselves and their Families, For which they would apply to him, as he has hitherto Supplyed them therewith: That he has not any Goods at this Time for that purpose, and thinks if they are not supplyed with such Necessarys as they may want, He will be obliged to leave his. Settlement in the Mohocks Country, which he believes from what he has heard the Inhabitants there say, would occasion them all to abandon their Settlements. That he is of Opinion, it would at this Time greatly encourage the Indians, if two Forts were erected as Speedily as may be, One in the Senecas Country, and the other in the Country of the Oneidas. Wm". JOHNSON, The above Examination was taken before a Committee of His Majesty's Council the day and year first above Written. Gw. BANYAR D C1 Cur. Copy Examd.~ p Gw, BAN AR D c,1 Our. SIR WILLIAM JOHNSONo 619 EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM COL. JOHNSON TO GOV, CLINTON. 14th May 1748 May it Please yr Excelly I am to acquaint You Sir of my return from Onondaga three days ago, after the most troublesome fatiugeing Journey I ever took, but the kind Behaviour of the Six Nations to me in a great measure makes up for every thing; having received and Entertained me well I would have wrote to Your Excelly a day or two Sooner, but when the People heard of my return, my House was constantly full of Christians, as well as Indians, and Continues so still, that I have Scarce a Minutes time to do any thing, and then again this News of an Army coming against me, and the Mohawks River m Particular, has taken up my time much, by the People flocking about me, Women roaring & Clapping of Hands, begging for Shelter, so that I have a most miserable life of it, besides the great Risque I run of being hourly destroyed, I would have wrote Your Excelly a full Acet of this News before, but Mr Lyddius told me he sent Your ExcellY the Original Letters already. I send Your Excelly herewith My Speech, & Answer of the Five Nations, whereby you can form a Judgment, and pritty near how the five Nations stand Affected at present, I assure Your Excelly I had a great Deal of trouble to bring them to any reason, being quite out of Humour, at the many Disappointments they have met with since the beginning of the War, and now again at being stopped from going to Canada, for their People who are in Confin-iement there, and can have them now for going for, as they are Assured by several Belts of Wampum, sent them last Winter by the Governour of Canada, whereupon I was obliged (in order to prevent their going) to Assure them, Your ExcellY would Endeavour to gett them from thence, so that if Your Excelly does not fall upon some speedy way of Getting them from thence soon, I fear it may be the means of Sowering their tempers more then any thing Ever happened Yet, as we hinder them from doing of it, If Your Excelly Succeeds in it, there's nothing will please them more, or Convince them that you have the greatest regard for their Welfare which you always Express. Wherefore if I may sake so free, would Earnestly request your Excelly would please to take 620 IANUSCRIPTS OF it into Consideration speedily, as there is nothing can be done at present would be of more Service to our Indian Affairs, I am desired by the Six Nations to acquaint Your Excelly of their want of Provisions, hopeing that You will send them some Indian Corn, Pork or any thing You think proper for their Relief. I have this Day received Your Excelly favour with Orders to Employ so many Men of these Levies, and so many of the Inhabitants, to Scour the Woods, which I shall Immediately put in Execution, altho the Men all Grumble much to find Indian Shoes &ca for Gd pr' Day, when I was going to Onondaga I left Orders whenever the Indians Call'd for Men to Scour the woods, that there should be a Number ready for that purpose, and Since that time there has been two Parties out with some Indians, to whom I promised one Shilling pr Day, and 18 pence to the Sergeants, as I could not tell what the Allowance was or would be, So hope Your Excelly will not Suffer me to be a looser, tho' it is but a Trifle. Had the Assembly allowed the same, for them who are to be Employed as Rangers it would be but reasonable, & then that Service could be done with much more ease and less Trouble for now it will be with Ill will those Men can be got out. Wherefore I wish there could be an Addition made to it, I shall also send up Imediately to call the Six Nations down, again the time mentioned, but should Your Excelly not be here at that time, it would be a great disappointment; As they Come down, they will require a great deal of Provisions being scant at home, I fear if they are not Supplyed before that time with some Provisions, they may do a great deal of damage to the poor few Inhabitants remaining on their Plantations, which would intirely ruin them. I would Acquaint Your Excelly of one thing, that is whatever Presents you give the Indians now, will be to no purpose, if there be not an Act made before that time, to forbid all persons whatsoever to Buy or Exchange any Arms, Amunition, Clothing &cA. froim any Indians of the Five Nations, or from any Indian in Alliance with them, or sell them any Rum or other Spiiitous Liquors to the East of Oneida Lake, under pain of Suffering a Year and a Days Imprisonment, and a fine besides of ~30.-If that is so, the Indians will reap a Benefit by getting such a Present, but otherwise none at all, I am sorry to find by Your Excellys Letter, that there is no great hopes SIR WILLIAM JOHNSON. 621 of an Expedition which I doubt will be the ruin of this part of the Country intirely, and the means of giving the Six Nations a worse opinion of us than we can imagine, & all their Allies also, and I shall now have the greatest difficulty that ever I mett with, to reconcile the Indians, when they come to hear that we are to do nothing, wherefore shall long much for Your ExcellYs coming up, as I assure You Sir they all do. Captain Lindsay writes from Oswego, that he was told by an Indian, that there was an Army preparing to destroy Oswego, but I dare say that place is in no manner of Danger, this may be that Army which the Prisoners wrote was to come against me and the Mohaw-ks. Wm JOHNSON EXTRACT FROMI COL~ WM JOHNSON'S LETTER DATED 10TH AUGUST 1748 TO HIS EXY THE HONBLE GEORGE CLINTON. May it please your Excellency. SIR-I have just now gbtt rid of all the Indians from my House, except the Senecca, called the Grota Younga, who stays to be cured of the Ulcer he has in his leg. I had a prodigious deal of trouble with them all, but thank God the Greatest hurry is now over for a time. The Flag of Truce is gone by my House eight days ago all well & go on briskly, I sent my French Girle along with the rest. I have agreed with a Smith &ca to go to the Seneccas for 6 Months for ~70, but there is no Bellows there worth a pin, so cannott tell. how to do in that Case. I believe I can gett all the rest of the Smiths at the same price, but they are desirous to know how they are to be paid. Sir-If your Excy thinks to continue the Levys here for any time, I would beg leave to give my opinion of the best manner of doing it, which I think (as there are many of the Officers, as well as Soldiers tired of the Place or Service, the only way is to lett so many of the Officers be continued, who have full & good Companys, or can gett such, for I see there are several of them who have lost almost all their Men, and indeed it is no wonder, for those 6.~~22 M ~iANUSCRIPTS OF are they who had no ommand of their Men. I shou'd be glad to have your Excellency's Directions and Commands therein as soon as you thot proper, because the men will be dispersing & getting Home, without further certainty. Capt Wiliott & his Company is gone, the most of Capt Churches are gone, & the rest are to go, (as I am told) in a few days, so there remains none but Capt Slop there, who kept all his Men but four. I send your Exy inclosed Receipts for the Provisions of the Troops at Oswego, until last May, and I hope your Exy will grant Warrants, that I may have my Money. I have sent Provisions for another Half Year, wCh is to next November. If your Excellency intends to send a Relief to Oswego of the Militia this Fall, as they who are there expect, I hope you will lett me know it p first, That I may gett the Men ready in time. I hope your Exy will please to Honour me with a few Lines in answer to this p first Opportunity, as I shall be governed thereby. WM JOHNSON EXTRACT OF A LETTERI FM COL. JOHNSON. While writing this I am told by Parson Mills that Mrs Lydius told him that Mons. Pascaud who was ordered to his room when I was at New York upon suspicion of being a Spy, had a Pacquet of Letters to forward to Old France relating to the Clashing between the two Crowns, besides he said at'York he was of the family of the Pascouds or Packo's at Rochell & concerned in the Bourdeaux Company all which Lydius's family says is false, if so I think he ought to be more narrowly examined but first to seize his Papers, this you may mention to the Govr from me wth my Compliments if you please & apologize for my not writing to him abt it being so hurried by the Inds & Express, or else you may have it fin Mr Saml Stillwell to whom Mr Mills tells me he mentioned it. I should choose it so, as I dont care that my Name shoud be so Odious to the treacherous French [Here follows Gov: Clinton's Order, dated Aug. 2. 1749, for the delivery to Colt Johnson of all Papers relating to the Depart. for Indian affairs.] SIR WILLIAM JOHNSON. 623 LT. LINDESAY TO COL. JOHNSON. Oswego 15th July 1751. This day came here from Niagra the Bunt & the Black Princes Son with their Fighters he first Gave me an account how it had fared with them, Told me he found two Forts Built by the French Since he went out one at Nigra Carrying Place & the other by John Cair on the River Ohieo he said he heard a bird Sing that a Great many Indians from his Castle and others from the five nations were gone to Swegage all this he said grived him and he Saw things going very wrong & if a stop was not put to it the five nations wou'd be ruined soon. He Said he was come home for he lookt on this place as such That he was both hungry & Poor & hoped as I represented the Governor and Coll Johnson here I would assist him in a little Provisions & Clothing to his Fighters. I told him was sorrey for the loss he had sustained, but was glad to find his thoughts & mine the same as to the Frenchs Building Forts and the Indians going to Swegage & told him how wrong it was in our Indjans going to Cannada & the Consequencess that would attend it in the best light I could, he agreed with me in all I said & promised to do Everything in his Power to have things better managed & likewise promised in the Strongest Terms to all Coll Johnson would desire of him. I gave him Provisions & Cloathing &c: for his People To the Ualue of five Pounds above what he gave me when he spoke which was three Bevers 27th. this day came the Couse & some other Sinaka Sacham, in order to go to Cannada he came to See me & told me he was sent by the consent of the five Nations to go to the Govn. of Cannada about the Building the above said two Forts &c. I told him the consequence of Indjans going there but as he is Intirely French all I said was to no purpose Though he seem'd to own the force of what I said as all the other Indians did & I belive all but him might have been stopt but as things are I could do no more by all the Indjans that have been here I find the French Army landed at Nigra about the 26th July in 20 Large Cannoes To the number of 250 or 300 French with 200 Arondaks & Annogongers they are to gather all the Indians as they pase & allso French & will at least amount to 1000 or 1200 French & Indjans, their designs is to G6.4 MANUSCRIPTS OF Drive the English of that are at or near Ohico & oblidge The Meomies to come and live were they shall order them All the lndjans who have been here say they and all Indians are to joyn them, while the Bunt was here I had him always with me and did all Lay in my Powar to oblidge him he showed the Greatist sence of it & said he would all ways (lo what I asked as he allways had done he is much inclined to us & am Convinced that if Coll Johnson sends for himl he will come & take our affairs in hand Hertily & I think he hath it more in his Powar then any to bring things to rights nor is it to be (lone without him this is my Sentiments & I hope you will pardon my liberty in giveing them, if you approve of what I have said & desire me to bring him down with me ile do my indeavours and he never yet hath refused what I asked of him, there are some French here who mett the Armyr about Hundred miles to the west of Nigra. JOEHN LINDESAY To The Honourable COLL Wm JOHNSON EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM COLL JOHNSON OF 26TH MARCH 1753. I am surprized that Governour Dinuidde would atempt to disprove the Message delivered your Excellency from the Five Nations last Spring (" which was that they at a general Meeting 4at Onondaga had resolved not to go to Virginia, on said 4 Governours call, it not being customary among them to meet or 4 treat of Affairs in the Woods and Weeds (as they expressed it,) "but desired he might be acquainted, that if he wanted to speak "with them and deliver His Majesty's present, as they understood "he intended, they would meet him at Albany and receive it, < where they expected your Excellency would be present,") by asserting that his Commissioners mett and treated with several of the Chiefs of the six Nations last May, at Logstown, and then delivered His Majesty's Present to them, which he says they were much pleased with, and that the Wampum which he sent to call SIR AWILLIAM JOHNSON. 625 or invite the Six Nations to the Conferrence was found remaining in Logstown, when the Commissioners came there last May. The uneasyness which his writeing to you in such a manner gave me, together with the necessity it laid me under of clearing up so dark an Affair, put me on looking strictly into it, and after the closest inquiry I could possibly make, cannot learn that one of the Sachims or Young Men of the Six Nations attempted even to go Virginia last year; They also declare that they have not received any of said Present, but they heard it was given to some Indians living about Ohio, Shawanees &c: which they don't seem well satisfied at. If the String of Wampum, which he was to call the Six Nation by, remained at Logstown, I must own I don't understand how they could receive his Message or Invitation, or return it' by me to your Excellency, it is obvious to all who are the least acquainted with Indian Affairs, that they regard no Message or Invitation be it of what consequence or nature it will, unless attended or confirmed by a String or Belt of Wampum, which they look upon, as we our Letters, or rather Bonds. This is a true State of that Affair which as a public Concern, should be glad your Excellency would look further into it, and if what I here affirm should not be sufficient I can get the Interpreters Affidavit who was present when they delivered me the String of Wampum with said'Message. The whole Body of the Six Nations would also gladly have it in their power to clear up them two Articles, as they look upon it a great Reflection cast upon them, &c. W1 JOHNSON CAPT. STODDART TO COLL. JOHNSON. Oswegoe May 15th. 1753 Yesterday past by here Thirty odd French Canoes, part of an Army going to Belle Riviere to make good their Claim there, and by a French man who past this also yesterday in his way to Cajocka, gives me the following Account which he said he Learned from common report in Canada viz. That the Army Consisted of 1 Meaning the String of Wampum which 1 delivered you. VOL. II. 40 626 MANUSCRIPTS OF 6 thousand French commanded by Monsr. Mann who is ordered to Ohio, to settle the Limits between us & they that they lay claim on all the Lands on any of the Rivers or Creeks descendg. or Terminating in the great Lake, that if he meet with any opposition he is to make good his Claim by force of Arms & to Build Forts in such places he shall think most Convenient to secure their Right, that one Fort is to be Built at Ka-so-no-tia-yo-ga (a Carrying place) & another at Diontaroga, they are also to oblidge all the English they meet with, whither Traders or others to evacuate the place as they look upon all we possess now, as their undoubted right, which they mean to support by force of Arms. That this Expedition is agreeable to orders Received from the Grand Monarque late in the Winter, that he particularly orders them that they Molest not this Post at any Rate in Consideration of Cape Breton, but any other Post the English shall presume to approach or Settle near where they Claim they are to Reduce if not quitted imediately after warning given. That they expected a Decleration of War by the first Vessels from France which were not yet arrived, and was surprised when I told him we had as yet no Intelligence or probability of a War; He also told me there was about 500 Inds. of the Coghnawagees, Scenondedies Onogonguas Oroondoks and Chenundies who would not Engage to go to War with ye. English etc on Ohio, but are employed at so much p month to Hunt for ye. Army. Our five Nations are very uneasy & many who were ye. first and principal Settlers at Swegatsy, are returning to their respective Villages, and seem to have much the Spirit of resentment in them that the French should offer, to take possession, or Settle & Build Forts at Ohio, without their Consents; as they look upon it as their property, and many of them are now Eager to take up the Hatchet, and if they were a little Spirited and Assisted by us, would soon with the assistance of their Allies, frustrate the Scheme of the French Politicians, in their Intended Settlements, which if we tamely suffer, we may bid Adieu to all the Indians on the Continent as they will be ye Masters of them all, and the Consequence will be a Continual Annoyance and Encroachment on our Frontiers, as there is no doubt but they will extend their Dominions in America as far as possible, and now SIR WILLIAM JOHNSON. 627 seems the verry Crisis of time to gain the Indians or for ever loose them, if I hear any thing further Conscerning this Armyl shall not fail to Communicate it to you at all opportunitys. B: S —IMR. WOODBRIDGE TO COL. JOHNSON. Albany June ye 26th 1753. HONOURABLE SIR.When I had the pleasure of waiting on you at your Seat Mr Hawley & I propos'd our designs and desired your advice and patronage respecting the same, we was not insensible of your influence with the western tribes of Indians, & their dependance on you. Under a view of these things, we looked on it as a duty, and a necessary point, to lay our designs of propogating the gospel among the Indians before you: and we looked on it favourable, that you was pleas'd to countenance the business that we were engaged in, when we came to treat with the Indians, and mentioned that difficulty that would probably impede, the success of the gospel among them, (viz) their intemperate, use of Strong Lyquors, and in their reply to that paragraph, they delivered the following words, and a belt of wompom. In the close of their reply, desirld me to negociate the affair for them. The Indians My Brother Col' Johnson hear me. Now we are both Speech. nations together under one head, at Onuhhuhquaugeh. My Brother Whaurohyauchee here we are assembled under one head; I say hear me now: the Govourner and great men have took pity on us. and come so far to bring us to light & religion, that we may go Streight. My Brother, my Dear Brother, pity us, your Batoe is often here at our place, & brings us rum, & that has undone us. Sometimes on Sunday our people drink and cant attend their duty, which makes it extreamly difficult. But now we have cut it off, we have put a Stop to it. You must not think, one man, or a few men, have done it, we all of us, both old, & young, have done it. It is done by the whole. My Brother I would have you tell the great men at Albany, Skenectetee, and Skoharry, not to bring us any more rum. I would have you bring us powder, lead & clothing, what we want9 628 MANUSCRIPTS OF and other things what you please, only dont bring us any Strong Lyquors. My Brother; I Cant alone, my Nephew was the first that spoke, and told us his mind, and laid down a long belt of wompom, they got together & consulted when they were here, and Spake to us in these words: My unkle, you live nearer your Brother than I do, and you are more intimate together; I would have you tell him to bring no more rum to my place. He has sent a great deal of it there, & we die many of us only by strong drink, I would have you take care that no more is brought to us. Now my Brother pity us rum is not good we have had enough of it. This is the third time, that I have sent and told you that I would have no more rum brought here.-Once we sent a String of wompom, of which we never heard Since. Once you told us in these words. My Brother I have a fire at your place, and I would take pity on you and Send you what you need, for your Comfort. I desire to supply you and the people round you, with goods. We told you we should be glad to have you send us powder, lead, & cloathing, what we need, and anything else what we want; but would send us no rum no strong drink; and now send you a belt of wompom byj our Brother; and desire notice may be given to the great men at Albany, Skenactetee, & Skoharry that we would have no more rum sent among us. Sir Being so unfortunate as to be denied the Satisfaction of waiting on you at Albany, which I had some hopes might have been, as you returned from the court, am obliged to leave the affair in this manner. Heartily wishing your Honour, all temporalr & Eternal Blessings: and am with great esteem, Your Honors obliged & most obedt Humble, Servant, TIMOTHY WOODBRIDGE The Hon'ble Wm Johnson Esqr SIR WILLIAM JOHNSON. 629 INSTRUCTIONS TO COL. JOHNSON. BY HIS EXCELLENCY THE HONOBLE GEORGE CLINTON CAPTAIN GENERAL &CA. INSTRUCTIONS TO WILLIAM JOHNSON EsqR one of the Jlembers of his Majesty's Council of the said Province By his MJajesty's Commission bearing date herewith Commissionattu to summon $ invite the six jVations of Indians to a General Meeting at Onondaga for the purposes therein mentioned. In pursuance of his Majesty's said Commission herewith delivered to you, You are as soon as may be to invite or summon the said Nations to a General Meeting to be held at Onondaga at such time as you shall think will be most convenient for them and expedient for this Service At which Mee' ng you are to represent to the said Nations that the Interview proposed with them at Albany this Summer is now thought proper to be defer'd on account of my Indisposition and Expectation of the Arrival of a New Governor here from England in a very short time Who you are to assure them will have an Interview with the six Nations at Albany as soon after as he conveniently can, and make them the Presents usually given on such Occasions That at this Interview they will have an Opportunity of laying before him all their Complaints and Grievances in which they will be redressed without any unnecessary delay And that in the mean time I hope and expect they will all live in perfect harmony and Friendship with their Brethren the English. That if the Interview lately intended had taken Place I proposed then to have taken the Hatchet out of their Hands which was given them to use against the French But being prevented by the Reasons before mentioned have thought proper to commissionate you to meet them at that Place in order to perform that Ceremony which you are to do accordingly and in the strongest Terms to return them thanks for the Assistance they gave their Brethren in the late War. And whereas their appears at this time some uneasiness among the Mohawk Nations you are to use your utmost Endeavours to appease the same and to urge whatever Arguments you shall think may have a tendency to restore them to good Temper. And Lastly your are further to act and do herein as you shall in 630 M)ANUSCRIPTS OF.you' best Judgment think will be most conducive to his MVajestyls Service and most effectually answer the Intention of this Meeting. Given at Fort George in New York the fifth day of July 175i3. LETTER FROM COL. JOHNSON, WITH HIS PROCEEDINGS AT A CONFERENCE WITH THE lMOIhAWKS &C. Mount Johnson September 24: 1753 May it please your Yr Excellency I arrived three days ago from Onondaga, and Agreeable to your orders have transcribed what passed there between me, and the Six Nations, which I take this opertunity (by Doctor Shuckburgh) to lay before Your Excellency, together with what I said to the Mohawks, & their answer. I mett some French Men there and examined what Pass they had from the Governour of Canadas which I found only allowed them to purchase Ginseng for an established Company of Merchants-peculiar for that Comodity. They told me there were above twenty sails of transports arrived in Canada this Summer, with People to Settle towards Ohio and that several more were Expected at Mississipi among whom they supposed there would be a number of Swiss, this being the most Material, beg leave to refer You to the Doctor for other Occurrences. I am with the greatest respect Mount Johnson Your Excellency's 7br the 24th 1753 Most Humble servt WM JOHNSON. GOVERNOUR CLINTON Att a meeting of both Castles of the Mohawks at Mount Johnson July the 26th 1753Hendrick their Chief being appointed Speaker Spoke as followes BROTHER WARRAGHIIYAGEY. Tho it is not usual for us to speak first when sent for, yet as our hearts are full, we creave leave to throw off ye. Burthen Brother on the receipt of your message two days ago, we were highly rejoiced, to think that you were again raised up, and impowered to receive, and impart reciprocally the news between us & our Bretheren the English. Thereupon we agreed without delay to come down to your House, our late Fire place, kindled SIR WILLIAM JOHNSON. 631 at a troublesome time, even in War. Where should we resort to when any thing lays heavy on our Breasts but where we have always found satisfaction what ever might trouble us. We have reason to be uneasy, and had the Governour sent for us by the Commissrs. whom we hear are appointed, we would not at this time hearken, or move a foot- Gave a string of Wampum Here follows my Speech to Both Castles of the Mohawks BRETHEREN AND FREINDS. I congratulate you on your arrival from New York, am glad to see you all well, and bid you welcome here, where your Brother the Governour has impowered me to light up a small fire again, so as to enable me to boil a little Victuals for you while this conference lasts. BRETHEREN, I am ordered by your Brother the Governour to let you know, that your behaviour and demands were verry unreasonable and unusual while at New York, and that He, and his Cheif Men were much affected, to find that you whom they looked upon as most sincere friends, should use such loud, and foul words, that almost shook and soyled that firm, & bright chain made by our Wise Forefathers, & continued by their Posterity till now unsullied. I cannot help reproaching you for your unfriendly and rash behaviour, which put your Brother ye. Governour and his Great Men, in a verry unsuitable disposition to redress greiviances wlich were they in ever so good temper, they then had not time to ffect. Wherefore I am Commissioned to tell you that whatever maT make you uneasy you would defer till the arrival of the new Gorernour, who is shortly expected, and will have more time to hea all your complaints than the Present, who is prepareing to retun to England, that, and his want of Health, has prevented him fron meeting the Five Nations this Summer as he intended, to renew the antient Leauge between them, & Us, and quiet your minrs. From thence it is that I am appointed by the Government here to convene the Five Nations at Onondaga, to treat with them then in the Governour's name. Now as you and I have conthued to consult each other, in all affairs of consequence, I mustdesire you would join me in considering what are the most proper steps to be taken with regard to my goeing to the generall 632 MANUSCRIPTS OF Convention at Onondaga. In ye. mean time I insist upon your liveing in Harmony with us, as usual, who have, and ever will be your best Friends, and conjure you by this Belt of Wampum, that all differences that may have happened be stiffled, and that the Link of that bright Chain which seemed to be loose, may be as strongly connected as Heretofore. Here the Belt was given BRETIIERENI further expect, that you will be ready with a proper Number of Sachems, & Cheif Men, to attend me thither, and allso att the General Meeting. Here a string of Wampum The Answer of both Castles of the Mohawks, to the foregoing Speech Spoke by Hendrick at Mount Johnson July 27th 1753 BROTHER WAR)RAGHIIYA)GEY.We have with willing Ears heard what you said Yesterday. it has made the deepest impression on our Minds, and will never be forgot even by our Youngest People Whom we brought along to hear you once more, Tho we are sensibly affected by olr Bretherens neglecting us for some time past, and the priva;e differences we have had with the Inhabitants. Yet for this time we agree to everything You request, and shall bury all animosity, and dispute in a deep Pool so as not to be thought of more. ani hope there may never be reason for the like again. Small provocations shall never weaken the Chain of Friendship so loig subsisting between Us & our Bretheren, and you may be assured we shall take all oportunitys of dignifying our attachment, as ve,; and our Forefathers have done formerly. Here a Belt was given BROTHER WAR'RAGH I IYA GEY You may depend upon our readiness at the first Call to vait on You to Onondaga, & assist You as much as in our power att the Generall Meeting, haveing pitched upon some of our nost Intelligent & respectable Men, to attend you there.Here a string of Wampumand endedSeptember the 8th 1753 Entered the Onondaga Castle bing mett by the Sachims a Mile on this Side, who said they vere allready to receive me, Soon after I was seated, The Red Eead SIR WILLIAM JOHNSON. 633 one of the Chief Sachims of that Castle, rose up, and Spoke as follows.BROTHER WARRAGHIIYAGEY As You enter our Meeting Place with wett Eyes, & sorrowfull Hearts, in Conjunction with our Bretheren the Mohawks, we do with this string of Wampum wipe away your tears, and asswage your greif, that you may speak freely in this Assembly -Here they gave the String of WampumHere follows what I said to the General Convention of the Six Nations att Onondaga spoke by Hendrick the Chief of the MohaxvksBRETHEREN OF THE SIX NATIONSThe great conscern I am under for the loss of our three great and beloved Brothers, Caghniagarota, Onughsadego, and Gahusquerowana, who in their time made Your Assembly compleat makes it incumbent on me to condole their death, and as it is a great loss to Usin general, I do by these three Belts of Wampum dry up your tears that we may see each other, clear your Throats that we may speak together and wash away their Blood out of our Sight, and cover their Bones with these Strowd Blankets. s Here gave the 3 Belts of Wampum \ and three Blankets of StrowdsBRETHEREN OF THE SIX NATIONSI am now to acquaint You that the Indisposition of the present Governour, and the expectation of ye Sudden Arrival of a new one, has occasioned the interview proposed at Albany between You & him, this Summer to be deferred, upon which I am commissioned to treat with You, and at the Same time to Assure You that ye Succeeding Governour will meet You as soon as he conveniently can, with presents as usual, You will then have an opertunity of laying before him wtever is amiss, which will be redressed you may depend on without any unnecessary delay, till then I expect, all of you will live in perfect Harmony with Your Bretheren the English. A BeltBRETHEREN OF THE SIX NATIONS It Greives me sorely to find the road hither so grown up with weeds, for want of being used, and your Fire almost expireing at 634 MANUSCRIPTS OF Onondaga, where it was agreed by the wisdom of our ancestors that it should never be extinguished. You know it was a saying among them that when the Fire was out here you would be no longer a People. I am now Sent by Your Brother the Governour to clear the Road, and make up the Fire with such wood as will never burn out, and I earnestly desire You would take care to keep it up, so as to be found always the same when he shall send among You. A Belt. BRETHEnREN OF THE Six NATIONSI have now renewed the Fire, Swept & clean all your Rooms with a new White Wing, and leave it hanging near the Fire place, that you may use it for cleaning all dust, dirt &ca which may have been brought in by Strangers, no freinds to You, or UsA String of Wampum BRETHEREN OF THE Six NATIONSI am sorry to find on my Arrivall among You that the fine Shady Tree which was planted by your Forefathers, for your ease & Shelter should be now leaning, being almost blown down by Northerly Winds. I shall now endeavour to set it upright, that it may flourish as formerly while the roots spread abroad, so that when we sit or stand on them You will feel them shake, should any Storm blow, then should You be ready to secure it. A BeltBREaTHEEEN OF THE SIX NATIONS Your Fire now burns clearly at the old place, The Tree of shelter, and protection is set up and flourishes, I must now insist upon your quenching that Fire made with Brambles at Swegachey, and recall those to their proper home who have deserted thither, I cannot leave disswadeing you from goeing to Canada, the French are a delusive People always endeavouring to divide you as much as they can, nor will they let slip any opertunity of makeing advantage of it; tis formidable news we hear that the French and some Indians are makeing a descent upon Ohio, is it with your consent or leave that they proceed in this extraordinary manner, endeavouring by force of Arms to dispossess your own Native Allies, as well as yr Bretheren the English, and establishing themselves. A Large Belt. SIR WILLIAM JOHNSONo 635 BRETHEREN OF ONONDAGAI must remind you of a new Custom lately introduced verry inconvenient for our mutual interest, that is, when you receive news from the Westward, Southward, or any other Quarter, you send it from one Castle to another, till it arrives quite altered from what it was at first. I therefore require you by this Belt of Wampum to follow the old Custom, and send it as far as you intend it should go directly by some of your own Nation A Belt. BRETHEREN OF THE SENECA'SAs you have always been looked upon as the door of the Six Nations, where all news, especially from the westward, and southward must enter, and go out, we dont hear this Door open as we used to do formerly and belive it to be worn out, and think it necessary to hang on a new one of such Wood as will never decay, the noise of which when it opens, should alarm all the Confederacy, I must now desire you, that whatever you hear of Consequence, you would send it verry distinctly to the Sachims of Onondaga, who will send it directly to your Bretheren, I require also as you are nearest the Western Tribes of Indians that you will endeavour all in your power to draw as many of them into our interest as possibly you can, by which means the Six Nations may continue their strenght and credit A Belt. BRiTHEREN OF ONEIDAam now to sett up your Stone strait, and rub off all Moss and Dirt it may have contracted this time past, My best Advice is to have your Castles as near together as you conveniently can, with the Tuscarora's who belong to you as Children, and the Scanihaderadighroones lately come into your Alliance or Families, which makes it necessary for me to fix a new String to the Cradle which was hung up by your Forefathers when they received the Tuscaroras, as you do now the Scanihaderadighroones to feed, and protect. A Belt. BRETHEREN OF CAJUGAI could Heartily wish that you would not live so scattered and that you would not listen to the French, who are a people you never had any Alliance with, or obligation to. It is agreeable 636 MANUSCRIPTS OF news, that you are about to strenghten your Castle by taking in the Tedarighroones, and shall according to your request give a Pass to those of that Nation here among you, that they, and the rest of them may come and join your Castle unmolested. A Belt & a Pass BRETHEREN OF THE Six NATIONS You must imagine I was much troubled, when imediately after my appointment to meet you at Onondaga to renew, and put in order everry thing relating to your Affairs, to hear that some of your People were returned with Scalps & Prisonners from the Catabaws, with whom you made so solemn a peace last year in my Presence, wh. pleased all your Bretheren the English upon this Continent. the King yr. Father also approved of it. Now what an everlasting shame must it be to the Six Nations, if this Bloody affair be not imediately made up, if it be possible, I expect at least that you return the Prisonners if any you have, and commit no further Hostilities on that Nation A Belt BRETHEREN OF THE SIX NATIONS,-As I proceed to reform everry thing relative to the old Covenant between you, & us, I must remind you on your part to hold fast by that strong Chain of Freindship made by your Forefathers, the Memory of whose Actions you have always regarded, You may depend upon the part in your Hands, that it shall never slip. I congratulate you in the Name of your Brother the Governour on the two additional Links to the Old Chain the Scanihaderadigh'ro6nes and Tedarrighroones, who without doubt must increase the strenght of itA Belt BRETHEREN OF THE SIX NATIONSI take this opertunity to return you the three Belts of Wampin. Sent by you to the Governour, with a request to hinder the Rum from comeing among you. He was verry glad to gratifie you in it, and that you had seen the Ill Consequences of that bewitching Liquor, and hopes you will Continue in that Resolution always, The Proclamation forbidding Rum to be Sent, or Sold Any Where among you (Except at Oswego) is already published. Here Returned them their 3 Belts SIR WILLIAM JOHNSON. 637 BRETHEREN OF THE SIX NATIONSI have only to recommend what I have said in your Brother the Governours Name, to your Serious Consideration, and when you are prepared to return an Answer, I should be glad to hear it by the Lake, where I am encamped, and have a small Present for you, & some provision for your ChildrenThe Red Head. in behalf of the Whole Stood up, & replied thus BROTHER WARRAGHIIYAGEEYou may be assured we shall take to Heart all your words, & deliberate upon everry Article, and as it requires some time, you must not think it long, if we do not come down to the Lake where you lay, as you expect to morrow, it may be the next day, tho we consider it cannot be agreeable to you to live in the Woods, we shall make what dispatch we canParted for that DayAtt a General Meeting of the Six Nations Held at Onondaga September the 10th. 1753The Answer of the Six Nations to the foregoing Speech, By the Red Head their SpeakerBROTHER WARRAGHIIYAGEEWe are obliged to you for your Speech and Act of Condolence, for the loss of our Three Great Brothers, Caghniagarota, Onughsadego, and Gahuscaroana and we are the more affected, as it was done conformable to our Manner. We are too sensible of what Consequence they were of in this Assembly, To say more would be to Exaggerate our Conscern, which we wish was intirely suppressed. A Belt. BROTHER WARRAGHIIYAGEEWe are sorry to hear -our Brother the Governour is sick, and we thank you for giveing us Notice of ye. sudden arrival of a new One, we shall suspend some Matters of Consequence'till then, some of which we shall mention in order, as we proceed to Answer that part of your Speech relative thereto, All of us will chearfully attend when he pleases to call, and, are unalterable in our Antient Freindship with our Bretheren the English. A Belt 638 IMANUSCRIPTS OF BROTHER WARRAGHIIYAGEE We acknowledge with equal Uonscern with you, that the Road between Us has been obstructed, and almost grown up wth. Weeds that our Fire is scattered; & almost extinct, We return you our most hearty thanks for recruiting the Fire with such wood as will burn clear, and not go out, and we promise that we shall with the Utmost Care dress, & keep it up, as we are sensible from what has been said by our Forefathers, that the Neglect of it would be our ruin. A BeltBROTHER WARRAGHIIYAGEEWe know verry well the Use of the White wing you recommended and are determined to use it to sweep out whatever may hinder the Fire from burning with a pure FlameA StringBROTHER WARRAGHIIYAGEE You may depend upon our Care in defending the Tree which you have replanted from the Inclemency of the high Winds from Canada, we are full of acknowledgements for your Care and Admonition, and be Assured we shall watch everry threatning Cloud from thence, that we may be ready to prop it up. A Belt BROTHER WARRAGHIIYAGEE We Rejoice that we See the Fire burn pure where it should do, the Tree of Shelter look Strong and flourishing, & you may depend upon our quenching that False Fire at Swegachey, and doeing all we can to recall our Brothers, too often seduced that way. tho we did not conceive we had done so much amiss in goeing thither, when we observe that you White People pray, and we have no nearer place to learn to pray, & have our Children babtized than that, however as you insist upon it, we will not go that Way nor be any more divided, I must now say it is not with our Consent that the French have committed any Hostilities at Ohio, We dont know what you Christians English & French together intend, we are so Hemmed in by Both, that we have hardly a Hunting place left, in a little while if we find a Bear in a Tree there will imediately appear an Owner of the Land to Challenge the Property, and hinder us from killing it which is our lively hood, We are so perplexed between both, that we hardly know what to say or think. A Belt SIR WILLIAM JOHNSON. 639 BR3OTHE-R WARRAGHIIYAGEE. In behalf of our Bretheren of this Castle of Onondaga, I am to say, that we shall hereafter transmit to our Bretheren the English, whatever we hear of Consequence Invariable & directly, according to the Old Custom. A String — BROTHER WARRAGHIIYAGEEThe Seneka's do know themselves to be the Door of the Six Nations, and thank you for renewing it, as we are sensible it was much wanted, and with such durable Wood as will not rott, we shall be quick to hear when it opens, and shall communicate distinctly what news is passing to our Brothers at Onondaga, in order to be dispatched to our Bretheren the English, and shall be verry sollicitous to invite all Nations to enter at that Door, & shall endeavour to keep the Roads to it Clear & Open. A Belt BROTHER WARRAGHIIYAGEE. We thank you heartily for clearing the Oneida Stone, and setting it up right, and shall agreable to your advice, collect our People together, also the Tuscarora's be they scattered where they may, and the Scanihaderadighroones we do unite with us, a small Party of whom are here present to hear you, and to take their share of our Brother the Governours Bounty We also return thanks for the New String fixed to the Cradle contrived by our Forefathers to receive those New Bretheren we intend to nourish and provide for A String. BROTHER WARRAGHIIYAGEE The Cajugas say they have not been more conversant with the French than the rest of the Six Nations, they will endeavour to keep themselves as compact as they can, and thank you for this Intuition, being sensible it is for their own good. They also return you thanks for the Pass you were pleased to give to the Tedarrighroones to come and unite with them to strenghten their Nation, Three of whom are now here to partake in the name of their Nation of the Intended Present. A Belt BROTHER WARRAGHIIYAGEE. We are heartily conscerned with you that some of our People went out against the Catabaws, and hope you will not take it amiss if we do not give you a difinitive answer upon that Head, at present we can only desire your 640 MANUSCRIPTS OF Patience till the Fighters are all Home, there being verry few Here, when we shall in each Castle consult them, and return an answer at the first meeting with the new Governour This is in part what I proposed to suspend till his comeing, as I mentioned before I returned the Second Belt. BROTHER WARIRAGHIIYAGEE You may depend upon whatever can be expected on our part, to bring the Covenant Chain to its former Brightness. It was high time, being almost eat thorough with Rust, for want of proper Care and Inspection. We are very glad you are pleased that we have connected thereto the Scanihaderadighroones, and Tetarighroones. All of whom we daily expect among us. A Belt BROTHER WARRAGHIIYAGEE, We Return you a great many thanks for stopping the Rum coming to the Six Nations and would be verry glad the same Prohibition would have effect at Osswego. To the last I replied, He intending to continue his speech. That could not be at present, likewise told them it would do great pleasure to the French, while we were forbid to sell Rum at Osswego, they sold what they thought fitt at Niagara a place which was forcibly taken from them. I expected they would first hinder the French Selling Liquor there before they proposed haveing it stopped at Osswego, especially as it is a place agreed on. by all the Six Nations to be in ye Hands of the English, as a general Mart for all their necessities, as well as for the sundry wants of all the Indians to ye. Southward and Southward. They replyed imediately by the same speaker they would go to Niagara, & forbid the French Selling any more Rum or Spiritous Liquors, and also said that they had not given that place to the French, but that they settled there without the Consent of the Six Nations. A Belt BROTHER WARRAGHIIYAGEE We are pleased with everry thing you have said, and return you a great many thanks for speaking in our own way, which is more intelligible to us, because more conformable to the Customs & Manners of our Forefathers. We earnestlybeg that if we call or send for you, or the Mohawks, or the Seneca's that you will SIR WILLIAM JOHNSON. 641 not neglect comeing, We have often stretched out our necks expecting to see you, but have been disapointed, We hope for the future you and they will always appear and attend the meeting, as we expect a Mutual Correspondence, we shall not omit sending all the news that arrives with us, and hope the same from you directly- A Belt SUNDRY WARRANTS AND ALLOWANCES IN FAVOR OF COL. JOHNSON. 1746 TO 1753. 1746. 1 Dec. For supplying Detachments of Militia wth 661.20 provis: from 15th March 1745 to 15 Dec. 1746 cc For supplying the double Garrison of regular Troops, at Oswego with provs from 23d 228.-.June 1746 to 23 Dec. 1746. ) 1747 April 29 Allowance for arrears due him on ditto 24 - June 19. For supplying the Troops at Oswego from 22 1st Nov. 1746 to 1st May 1747.' 1749 Aug. 8. For the like from 1 May 1747 to 1 Nov 1747 228 -- For the like 1 Nov. 1747 1 May 1748 228.For the like 1 May 1748 to 1 Nov. 1748 228.For the like 1 Nov. 1748 to 1 May 1749 228.For the Supplying Detachment of Militia at) Oswego from 15 Dec. 1746. to 15 May > 1292.1748 on receipt ) For supplying a double garrison of Regulars at Oswego from 23 Dec. 1746 to 23 May 646 1748 on rect For Extraordinary charges in supplying that } garrison same date on rect1750 For oats on receit 150.For Maintenance of French prisoners 36.8 For do their attendants 36.8For do. of Gents who came at another time 42.VOL. nI. 41 642 MANUSCRIPTS OF 1750 For do for their attendants 42.For money advanced to Gunsmith at Cayuga 300.-.For Goods furnished to Mohawks 60.For supplies to Militia at Oswego from 15 668.11.4 May to 15 Nov 1748 For Express to Oswego to withdraw the Militia in 1748, ~4. & money advanced 8.for a Birch Canoe ~4 To Capt Dow for advances to Coll Johnson 6 in 1749 for Clothing French Prisoners 646. 1753. To Coll. Johnson to be distributed Among the 250 Indians at Onondaga For expences on that voyage 200.For Goods furnished the smiths sent among the Indians in 1750 & 1751. For sundry other disbursements by him for the services of the Colony & what is still due him for supplying additional Garrison at Oswego exclusive of what he is to receive out of the Oswego fund for supplying the ordinary Garrison there with provs -- 733-6.2i COL. JOHNSON TO LT. GOV'. DELANCEY. 8th Septr. 1754. May it please your Honour I have this day received yours of the 1st Inst, with your orders which were dated the 14th ulto. I must beg leave to observe to your Honour, that the Inhabitants of the Mohawks River, (who are daily in fear of shareing the same fate of the Eastern Settlements being now the only Frontier) will think it a great hardship to be sent to Oswego, or any where else, while they are so exposed to the Enemy. I am certain the Indians would also think the same, being as much afraid as our People. besides, my sending them to Oswego, on hearing the Frenches design of attacking that place, may be too late, for the French are very private and SIR WILLIAM JOHNSON. 643 expeditious in such attempts. Therefore with submission, I should think it best if yr. Honour approves of it, to detach what number of men you may judge necessary for the reinforcement of that garrison, out of the several Companies usual and an active officer to Command them. Those men when so draughted, and the officer appointed, either to be sent there immediately, or ordered to hold themselves ready to march thither at the first call. but then, I expect that they will be assured of their Pay, as there are many who served there last War yet unpaid, notwithstanding they had the Collos. promise, who is now everry day dunned and threatened by them. In the next place, there is the transportation of them and their Provisions to be considered, this would be too hard upon me to engage for, and otherwise I dont see how I can oblidge them to march thither. As to what is in my power I have done, and shall continue it, vizt. to see that the Regiment be well armed & equipped agreeable to the act of Assembly also duly exercised, & warned to hold themselves in readiness to march against the Enemy at a moments notice but unless we have a proper number of woodrangers continually scouring the Woods, together with some of our best Indians (whom I beleive may be got for pay) to give us intelligence of the enemys approach, our numbers be them ever so well armed, and provided will avail but little, for as they live so scattered it will require three or four days notice at least to muster any considerable number of them together. Our safety depends greatly on haveing early Intelligence so that we may be able to guard against a surprise. I find your Honour was to send a Lieut Collh. Commission to Mr. John Ranslear of Green Bush, and another to Major Glen, as soon as I hear they have received them, I shall comply with your orders. Mr. Glen refused the same Commission five or six years ago, so that I dont know whether he will accept of one now. Your Honour is pleased to order that I should consult them gentlemen in the choice of officers, which I shall as far as is consistent with my Duty, and the good of the service & wthout the least regard to Party Divisions. I can assure you Sir, that I never made use of any such means, as is evident by the many Yacancys now in the Regiment, which I believe your Honour is 644 MANUSCRIPTS OF sensible I had in my power to fill up ever since I had the Conmission. \but I was under no necessity of having recourse to such measures, tho I belive it has been usual. My only aim or desire is to have officers fitt to command, and that I could depend upon, whenever there was occasion for them. As I am sensible the Militia is at present our only dependance or safeguard, you may be assured Sir, of my keeping it in as good order, and readiness as my Power will admit of, but this I must say, that) were the law relateing thereto, more ample at present it would be of great service. I am with all due respect. Your Honours Mount Johnson Most obedient Humble servant 7br. 8th 1754 WM JOHNSON GOVERNOUR DELANCEY Endorsed 8 Sepr. 1754 From COL. JOHNSON 16 Sepr. Read in Council. COL. JOHNSON TO THIE BOARD OF TRADE. New York, 17th. Janry. 1755. MY LORDS I did my self the honour of writing to your Lordships the 18th past from Mount Johnson, to which I beg leave to refer. By the inclosed Copies of Gen1. Shirleys Letters & mine your Lordship will see what past between his Excellency & me relative to his New Commission & Instructions. Mr Shirley hath thought proper to agree to my continuing to to act under Gen!. Braddocks Commission & upon talking matters over with him, that I shall meet the Indians at Oswego early this spring and endeavour to dispose them to second such operations as he may determine on for His Majestys Service. In one point, & it is a material one, Gen'. Shirley will not be so explicit as I wuld wish, it is in regard to Agents amongst the Indians employed and paid by him. I cannot pretend to carry on SIR WILLIAM JOHNSON. 645 this service in a proper manner whilst I have reason to suspect my measures may possibly be opposed & probably confused, by Persons not employed by me nor under my Direction. I have told Mr. Shirley these measures I apprehend are not agreeable to the Tenor of my Commission & represented to him their ill consequences; his answers leave me in doubts and suspicions. I shall however thus circumstanced do the best I can for the public service & fulfill my Duty to His Majesty to the utmost of my Power & Abilities. My Lords Since I have been at New York I received Mr. Secratary Pownalls Letter to me bearing date the 9 October, which your Lordships directed him to write. I think myself extreamly happy that my Endeavours for His Majestys Service in Indian Affairs have met with your Lordships Approbation; to receive the assurances thereof in Mr. Pownals Letter before me by Direction from your Lordships, is an honour wych I not only highly prize but animates me with the ambition of retaining & improving your Lordships favourable Dispositions towards me, I have read & considered the copy of the Instructions given to Sir Charles Hardy our present Governer upon the complaints of the Indians relative to their Lands. Tho I am fully assured of that Gentlemans sincere & disinterested Inclinations to exert the powers entrusted with him in executing these Instructions to the full extent of his authority, Yet I conceive that will be ineffectual without an Act of the Legislature of this Province to destroy the Patents complained of. Whether such an Act can or will be obtained, I very much doubt. But on this point in general, as well as to my Sentiments upon the important Subject of the British Indian Interest & that more particularly as it relates to the Northern Confederacy, I beg leave to refer your Lordships to the Papers I herewith transmit you. As my Administration of Indian affairs makes one whole Section in these Papers, & is put in the light of a Justification, your Lordships will permit me to give you the reasons for my name being so frequently mentioned therein. I am considerable enough to have Enemies & to be envied. I 646 MANUSCRIPTS OF have been informed that Gen1. Shirley & some other Persons have censured my Conduct since I have had the honour to superintend Indian Affairs, the unfaverable Terms I have been on with that Gentn. his causeless Jealousies & his unmerited Resentment, with some other Grounds, give me reason to suspect, my Management has'been or may be misrepresented to your Lordships or perhaps some of His Majestys Administration, hence it came, that some parts of the second section take more notice of me than perhaps might otherwise have been needful. That of a Fixt Fund I must beg to press on your Lordships as a Point absolutely necessary for carrying on Indian Affairs, so as to put them upon a solid footing & extend them to these beneficial purposes without a steady & connected view to wch I would neither chuse to dispose of the public money, nor continue in the Administration of these Affairs, a precarious Fund may not only fail at a critical Juncture but be attended with Obstructions almost equally fatal; I am willing to be under the severest checks & this with regard to my uprightness in money matters wch even mistrust itself can suggest, for my motives in pushing these points, are the nature of the service & the good of the public. As to my own appointments, Prudence & justice to myself, make it necessary that I should be explicit to your Lordships. Every thing of this kind is yet unsettled. While I had no public character in Indian Affairs, I sustained very considerable Expences and these I will be bold to say happily applied. From the time 1 engaged under my present Commission to this day, I wholly gave up my Trade. My attention to my estate and every other Improvement of my private Fortune, have been & must be if I continue laid aside as far as they relate to my personal application. I am if I continue in the administration of them, determined to devote my time & Labours wholly to Indian affairs. At all meetings either at my House or elsewhere, not only the officers belonging to this service but many other Persons who generally attend on these occasions are entertained at my Expence, & when the meeting is at Onondaga or Osswego the Expences are increased the journey is long and very fatiguing. SIR WILLIAM JOHNSONm 647 My Lords A Thousand Pounds sterling p annum I do assure your Lordships will not be Equivalent for the advantages I give up - & the additional Expences this Employment will put me to. And here my Lords I crave the honour to introduce the Secretary for Indian affairs, he hath applied himself for some years with great Dilligence & with answerable sucess to make himself master of the Department to woh. His Majesty's Commission appointed him. I am fully convinced from my Experience of his assistance and Behaviour that no Person I know of is more equal or worthy of this Employment, his abilities, the Importance & fatigue of the office do in my opinion deserve ~200 - p Annum sterling with an allowance for a Clerk and other charges. Upon these Points both with regard to Mr. Wraxall & myself I do not chuse to apply to General Shirley for as Mr. Wraxall sign manual is in the form of it not adapted to the present administration of Indian affairs, I hope your Lordships will judge it proper that both of us may be honoured with special commissions from His Majesty, provided Indian affairs continue in the channel which is at present favoured with your Lordships approbation, when our salarys may be determinately fixt. I return my Lords to the Papers before referred to & to the important affair of the Indians Lands; to lay before your Lordships all the particular circumstances of the Grants & Patents in the several Provinces is beyond my power and for effectual Expedients I apprehend His Majestys servants learned in the Law, may fall on better methods than any which are within the compass of my abilities to propose. My Lords To the Right Honble Your Lordships and Honble Most Obedient The Lords Commisrs. of & most hum servu. Trade &c. My Lords-having had my time so entirely engaged here since I had ye honor of your Lordships commands to lay my sentiments before you on ye Plan of measures your Lordships propose & being obliged to return directly with ye best Expedition I can to 648 MANUSCRIPTS OF Mount Johnson I am not able at this juncture to answer to your Lordships Commands. I will do it as sone as I am able. Permitt me my Lords to referr myself in general on this head to ye Letters I have had ye honor to write your Lordships & in Particular to Mr Pownall who I find is going to England as he knows every particulor of my sentiments & is also perfectly acquainted with Indian Affairs as they stand connected with ye Interest of ye Continent & His Majesty's service MINUTES OF A COUNCIL HELD AT ALEXANDRIA. At a Council held at the Camp at Alexandria in Virginia April 14th 1755. PRESENT His Excellency Edward Braddock Esqr General & Commander in Chief of his Majestys Forces in North America. The Honoble Augustus Keppel Esqr Commander in chief of his Majestys Ships and Vessels in North America. The Honbie William Shirley Esqr. The Honble Robert Dinwiddie Esqr The Honble James De Lancey Esqr. The Honble Horatio Sharpe Esqr The Honoble Robt Hunter Morris Esqr. The Generals Commission having been read and the Articles of his Instructions from his Majesty relating to a common Fund to be established in the Colonies for carrying on the services under the Generals direction, and also the article relating to the measures to be taken for engaging the Indians in his Majesty's Interest. His Excellency the General made the following proposals. 1st That a fund should be established conformable to his Instructions abovementioned and to sir Thomas Robinsons Letter to the several Governors dated Octobr 26. 1754. 2d It being of the utmost importance that the five Nations of Indians and their Allies should be gained and secured to the British Interest, that a proper person should be sent with full powers from him to treat with them, and that Colonel Johnston, appearing to his Excellency the fittest person for that purpose, should be employed in it. SIR WILLIAM JOHNSON. 649 And in order to promote the success of the Treaty, the General proposed that presents should be made to the said Indians in which he desired the opinion of the Council as to the value to which, the said presents should be made, and the manner of their being Supplied. 3 His Excellency acquainted the Council that he proposed to attack the French Forts at Crown point and Niagara and desired their Opinion whether it was advisable that the Reduction of Crown point should be undertaken with the forces agreed to be Supplyed by the Several Colonies concerned in it amounting in the whole to 4400 Men and whether it was their opinion that Colonel Johnston was a proper person to Command in Chief the said service. 4th His Excellency considering the Fort at Oswego as a Post of the greatest importance for facilitating the proposed attack of Niagara, and securing the retreat of the Troops to be employed in that service, and having been informed of Its present Defenceless condition & of the weakness of its Garrison acquainted the Council that he should order it to be reinforced by the two Independent Companies of New York and two Companies of Sir William Pepperels Regiment, and desired to have their opinion whether it would not be proper to build one or more Vessels upon the Lake Ontario for asserting his Majesty's right to that Lake as well as for a Security to the Forces to be employed in the attack of Niagara, and of what burthen or Force the said Vessels should be. The Members of the Council having taken into Consideration these several matters in the order proposed by the General. The Governors present acquainted his Excellency that they had severally made application to their respective Assemblies for the establishment of the common fund proposed, but had not been able to prevail upon'em to agree to it, and gave it as their unanimous opinion that such a Fund can never be established in the Colonies without the aid of Parliament. They likewise declared that having found it impracticable to obtain in their respective governments their proportions expected by his Majesty towards defraying the expense of his service in North America, that they were unanimously of opinion that it should be proposed to his Majesty's Ministers to find out some method of compelling 650 MANUSCRIPTS OF them to do it and of Assessing the several Governments in proportion to their respective abilities, their shares of the whole money already furnished and which it shall be thought proper for them further to furnish towards the General expence of his service They also assured the General that they would still continue to use their utmost endeavours to raise all possible supplies but were unanimously of Opinion that the Kings Service in the Colonies and the carrying on of the present Expedition must be at a stand unless the General shall think proper to make use of his credit upon the Government at Home to defray the expence of all the Operations under his direction The Members of the Council likewise agreed that it was highly necessary to send some person with full powers from the General to treat with the five Nations of Indians and to secure them and their Allies to the British Interest and that Coil Johnston was the fittest man to be employed in that Business and for that purpose that the Sum of ~800 Sterl should be paid into his hands to be laid out by him in such Commodities as he should judge most proper for the Northern and Western Indians ~500 of which should be employed for the five Nations and their Allies and ~300 for the Western Indians to be given at Oswego. And as to the manner of supplying the presents the several Govrs agreed that if the General for the sake of Dispatch thinks proper to advance the money the Colonies ought to replace it according to the proportions settled in the Plan of Union by the Commissioners at Albany last year together with all contingent Charges attending it, and that it was their opinion that the several Governments would readily consent to do it within the space of three months. The Council expressed their Approbation of the Attack proposed by the General upon Crown point and Niagara as being undoubted encroachments made by the French upon his Majestys Dominions in America and gave it as their Unanimous Opinion that Coll. Johnston was the properest person to have the Command of the Expedition against Crown point. They also agreed to the necessity of strengthening the Fort and reinforcing the Garison at Oswego, and advised the building of two Vessels of sixty Tons upon the Lake Ontario with all possible Dispatch according to a SIR WILLIAM JOHNSON. 651 Draught to be sent by Commodore Keppel who desired that an account might be laid before him of the cost of lem and undertook to defray it and it was agreed that the direction of the affair should be Committed to Goverr Shirley. It was likewise unanimously agreed that in case of the Reduction of Fort Duquesne whatever Garison the General should think proper to leave there, should be maintained, and the expence of additional works which he should think necessary to make there, should be defrayed by the Governments of Virginia Maryland, and Pensylvania, and that if the General should think it necessary to build a ffort upon Lake Erie, and to order one or more Vessels to be built for the Defence of that Lake, that the expence attending both those measures should likewise be defrayed by those three Governments. Examined W. SHIRLEY Secrty. COMMISSION APPOINTING COL. JOHNSON MAJOR GENL. BY His Excellency William Shirley Esqr. Captain General and Commander in Chief in and over his Majesty's Province of the Massachusetts Bay in New England, andAthe Lands and Territories thereon depending, Vice Admiral of the same, and Colonel in his Majesty's Army. To William Johnson Esquire Greeting. Whereas by my Messages on the 13th & 15th Days of last February to his Majesty's Council & the House of Representatives for the aforesaid Province in Great and General Court assembled, recommending to them to make provision for carrying on an Attempt, in conjunction with some of his Majesty's other Neighbouring Governments to erect a Strong Fortress upon an Eminence near to the French Fort at Crown point, & other Services in the said Messages express'd; In Answer to which the said two Houses of the aforesaid Assembly by their Message to me on the 18th. of the same February among other things therein contained desir'd me forthwith to make the necessary preparations for such an Expedition; to appoint & Commissionate a General Officer to 652 MANUSCRIPTS OF command the same, to advise his Majesty's other Goverments therein after mention'd of the said Design, and in such manner as I should think most effectual to urge them to join therein, and to raise their respective proportions of Men as follows, viz. New Hampshire six hundred, Connecticutt one thousand, Rhode Island four hundred, New York eight hundred, or such larger proportion as each of the said Governments should think proper, and to cause twelve hundred men to be inlisted for the Service of the said Expedition, as the proportion of the Province of the Massachusetts Bay, as soon as it should appear that the three thousand men propos'd to be rais'd by the before mention'd Colonies of New Hampshire, Connecticutt, Rhode Island and New York, should be agreed to be raised. And Whereas in consequence of my aforesaid Message recommending the said Expedition, & of the Resolves of the Assembly of the Province of the Massachusetts Bay thereupon, Copies of both which I transmitted to the before mention'd four neighbouring Governments together with a Letter to each of them, urging them to join in the same, as propos'd by the Assembly of the Massachusetts Bay, and nominating you to be the Commander in Chief of the Provincial Forces to be employ'd in the said Expedition: The Governments of New York, New Hampshire, Connecticutt & Rhode Island have agreed to raise in the whole two thousand nine hundred men for his Majesty's Service in the aforesaid Expidition, wch. with fifteen hundred Men since agreed to be raised for the aforesaid Service will make up 4400 Men, and acquiesced in my Nomination of you to be Commander in Chief of the said Forces; and Whereas his Excellency Major General Braddock Commander in Chief of all his Majesty's Forces in North America, hath since approv'd of my Appointmt. of you to the said Command: Now reposing especial Trust and Confidence in your Fidelity, Courage and good Conduct, I do, by Virtue of the Authority to me granted in & by his Majesty's Royal Commission under the Great Seal of Great Britain, and in consequence of the several proceedings of the Governments of the aforesaid Colonies of New England and New York, and of the Approbation of Major General Braddock, Appoint you to be Major General SIR WILLIAM JOHNSON. 653 and Commander in Chief of the Forces rais'd & to be raised by the aforesaid five Governments or any of them for the Service of the aforesaid Expedition; as also of such Indians as shall assist his Majesty in the same. You are therefore to take upon you the Command of the said Forces, and diligently to execute the Duty & Office of Commander in Chief of the said Expedition, according to such Instructions as you shall receive from me bearing even date with these Presents: and to follow such further Orders as you shall from time to time receive from me or any your superior Officer herein: hereby also requiring all Officers & Soldiers employ'd or to be employ'd by the aforesaid five Governments in the said Expedition to obey you as their Commander in Chief. Given under my Hand and Seal at Arms the sixteenth Day of April in the twenty eighth Year of the Reign of our Sovereign Lord George the second, by the Grace of God of Great Britain, France, and Ireland King Defender of the Faith, &ca and in the Year of our Lord Christ 1755o By his Excellency's Command Sec'ry. COMMN. OF MAJOR GENERAL TO WILLIAM JOHNSON ESQR. BY the Honoble: James DeLancey Esqr. his Majesty's Lieutenant Governour and Commander in Chief in and over the Province of New York and the Territories Depending thereon in America. To William Johnson Esquire Greeting Whereas upon the Recommendation of his Excellency William Shirley Eqr. Captain General and Governour in Chief of his Majesty's Province of the Massachusets Bay, That Government anid the several other Governments of New Hampshire, Connecticut Rhode Island and this Province, have respectively raised a body of Men, amounting in the whole to about four thousand, to be employed in an Attempt to erect a Strong Fortress upon an Eminence near the French Fort at Crown point; And for removing the Incroachments of the French on his Majesty's Lands there. 654 MANUSCRIPTS OF And his said Excellency having nominated you to be the Commander in Chief of such Provincial Forces the said several Governments have acquiececd therein And whereas his Excellency Major General BRADDOCK Commander in Chief of all his Majesty's Forces in North America hath since approved of your being appointed to that Command And I reposing especial Trust and Confidence in your Fidelity Courage and good Conduct Do therefore by Virtue of the powers and authority to me given by his Majesty constitute and appoint you to be Major General and Commander in Chief of the Forces raised and to be raised by the before mentioned five Governments for the Service of the said Expedition, as also of such Indians as shall assist his Majesty in the same. You are therefore to take upon you the Command of the said Forces and diligently to execute the duty and office of Commander in Chief of the said Expedition duely observing the Instructions which you will receive herewith from me bearing even date with these presents. And all the Officers and Soldiers of this province employed in that Service And all others whom it may Concern are required to obey you as their Commander in Chief and to pay due obedience to this your Commission. Given under my hand and Seal At Arms at Fort George in the City of New York the day of in the twenty eighth year of the Reign of our Soveraign Lord George the Second by the Grace of God of great Britain France and Ireland King Defender of the Faith &ca. And in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and fifty five. GENL. JOHNSON TO LT. GOV. DELANCEY. SIR, — I did myself the honour of writing you the 16 Inst. to wh I beg leave to refer. Upon farther consideration I think Four more 18lbS. and Four more Feild peices will be necessary and I must beg the favour of you to represent this to the Governments concerned that timely care may be taken to supply them. It is not to be doubted that SIR WILLIAM JOHNSON. 655 if the enemy hath not already some Informations of our Design, they will soon be fully apprized of it & consequently prepare for their Defence as compleatly as may be in their Power. It appears therefore to me that 6 Eighteen pounders will be too few to support our attack with that vigor as may facilitate our success. Should we be so happy as to take Possession of their Fort, they may render their own Cannon unserviceable, or we may find more thanthey leave us necessary to defend our conquest and cover our Troops. Four Feild peices I think too few for the number of Troops destined for this Service, and upon mature reflection it will I beleive appear so without my entering into the particular reasons. I dont find there is any Establishment for a Quarter Mast. Genl. such an officer appears to me quite necessary, and that great judgment should be used in the choice of him and that he should be dispatched to me as soon as possible to confer upon our future Proceedings. An Engineer is of equal if not greater necessity, who should without loss of time take a view of the Artillery &c. & make his report to me. I hope Sir you will without Delay take the necessary measures upon these Articles. I am Albany 29 May most respectfully 1755 Sir your Honours most obedt & most To the Honble hum Servt JAMES DELANCEY Esqr &c. &c. WM. JOHNSON. I dont write Governr. Shirley on those Heads, as there is at present no direct opertunity. 656 MANUSCRIPTS OF THE SAME TO THE SAME. SIR Seth the Head Sachem of the Indians living near Shohary, and the leading Sachems of the upper and lower Mohock Castles have made heavy Complaints to me of the white People in those Parts Selling Rum to the Indians, represented the ill Consequences thereof, and prayed that it may be prevented. Your Honour I persuade myself is sensible, this Selling of Rum to the Indians has been ever attended with fatal Consequences to the publick Interest with them, and at this Juncture, must be more then commonly detrimental; If an act of the Legislature cannot be obtained to prohibit this Sale of Rum to the Indians without any Limitation of Time, I do in the most earnest manner request your Honour, that you will apply to the Assembly to form an Act with such Pains, & Penalties, against this Sale of Rum to the Indians, during the present Situation of publick affairs, as may be (so far as possible:) effectual to prevent it. Unless such a Law is made, and the observance of it secured in the strongest manner, the General Interest in my humble opinion, will infallibly suffer, and those measures now in agitation for the Honour of his Majesty's Crown, and the Security & Welfare of his Subjects in these Parts, be greatly embarrassed. I am with great Respect Sir Your Honours Mount Johnson 2d of June Most obedient Servant 1755. WM. JOHNSON. P. S. there should be a clause in the Act to prevent Peoples buying their Arms Amunition Cloathing &ca. or exchangeing. To Govr. DELANCEY. SIR As Mr. Banyar writes me that my Pattent is ready for the seal, I hereinclose a note of Hand for the amount of your Honours SIR WILLIAM JOHNSON. 657 Fees, which I hope you will accept. The many disappointments I have lately mett with, together with my purchase of Lands, Ginseng &ca puts it out of my power at present to advance that sum; otherwise I would have paid it with pleasure. I am yrs WM. JOHNSON. THE SAME TO THE SAME. SIR I returned last night from the Conhogohery Indian Castle having first been at the Mohock Castle. At both Settlements I have fixt on Places to build them Forts. At the hither Castle I propose it to be nearly on a Line with Fort Hunter, to take in the Church as a Bastion & to have a Communication Pallisado between the two Forts, which will be a small Expence & in case of an Attack may be of great Service by mutually assisting each other, and if drove to the necessity of quiting the One they may still maintain the other. At Conogohery I propose it on the Flat Land out of Gun Shot from the Hill where the Old Block houses now stand, out of wch upon the Point of the said Hill 1 propose to erect a good Block House. On the rear of the intended Fort, there is a clear improved Vale run of more than half a Mile, on the left Flank it will be assisted by the said Block house on the point of the Hill, a Fire between wch and the Fort will clear the open Land on that side; the Land is all clear and cultivated in the Front; On the right side there are a few Bushes & small Wood to clear, when all will be open on that side for more than half a Mile, One of the Bastions to serve for a Church, I have not been able as yet to contract for building either of these Forts, but I hope to do it soon & upon the best Terms I possibly can. The Indians have expressed great Pleasure & Gratitude upon this Affair & the sooner it is put in hand the better, and I am persuaded it is a Measure which will greatly contribute to animate their Zeal, VOL. I. 42 658 MANUSCRIPTS OF secure these Indians to our Interest & have a very good Effect on the other Nations. In a Week or 10 days I am in hopes the Six Nations will be down with me as also Deputies from those living upon the Susquahanna with a Belt of Wampum. When I have finished my ConferrenceI will acquaint your Honour with the result, but till then I cannot with any certainty judge what turn they will take, I hope and flatter myself it will be in our favour, and that a Party may actually engage themselves to assist us. Capt Mathews came hither from Albany this Morning. his Company was regularly mustered last Wensday, & his Men quartered in the Block-houses. he tells me he applied to Mr DePeyster for Provisions for them, but he told him, tho a great deal had been sent him from New York, he had no Orders for Issuing any. Capt Mathews is now obliged to support them at his own Expence, wCh is very difficult for him to procure as well as to pay for. There are no Blanketts, Cloathing &c for them nor any Commissaries to give them Satisfaction on these Points. How very fatal this may be to the Service, by disgusting the Men already there & spreading amongst those who are to come, and how necessary it is to fulfil these public Engagements with Promptitude & Exactness, past Experience will testifie & the nature of the Case so fully evinces, that I will not trouble Your Honour with any of my Reflections thereon. One thing I must beg leave to say with regard to our Military Preparations in general, that if we are dilatory & remiss, the Consequences will probably be irretrievably fatal. I am most respectfully Mount Johnson Sir 6 June 1755. Your Honours Most Obedt & Most hum Servt To Governor DeLancey. WM JOHNSON SIn WILLIAM JOHNSON. 659: THE SAME TO THE SAME. SIR —Just now I received by an Express from Albany, Your Honours Favour of the 7. Inst. As that part of it relating to the Cagnawaga Indians, seems to require my immediate Answer, I must defer the other particulars to the next opportunity. I have talked with some of the Mohawk Sachems about the Cagnawaga Indians, and they are of Opinion that those Indians have at present a more favourable Disposition towards the English Interest, than for many Years past. And tho I think their uncontrolled Intercourse with Albany, & the Indiscretions to which some People there (to give it the softest name) may be liable, is a point of no small Consequence at this critical Juncture; Yet as I expect this day or to morrow Morning the arrival of our Indians here, 9 Nations of whom the Interpreter tells me are on the Road, more in Number than he ever yet saw together, that they seem to be well pleased & in a friendly Disposition, and as the Matter I shall move to them, must be conducted with the greatest Caution & Delicacy, it will be of the highest Importance to my Success with them, that they should be kept in as good humour as possible & receive no Disgusts which can be avoided. I am affraid if the laudable Zeal of Govr Shirleys Measures should now take place with respect to the Cagnawagna Indians, it may breed a Dissatisfaction amongst ours & and prejudice my Influence over them, for tis certain they do look on the Cagnawaga Indians as a part of themselves. If I should be so happy as to succeed in my Intentions with our Indians, I then propose to bring the Cagnawagas on the Carpet & put our Conduct relating to them on some detirminate footing, in which I hope to have the Concurrance of our Indians. A few days may enable me to give Your Honour such Lights & Informations2 as may point out what Conduct ought to be observed towards the Cagnawaga Indians at this Crisis. Capt Ayres went to Albany I am the day before yesterday. most respectfully Mr Wraxall presents his Duty Sir Your Honours to Your Honour. Most Obedt & Most hum Mount Johnson Servt 15 June 1755.- WA JOHNSON 660 MANUSCRIPTS OF THE SAME TO THE SAME. Mount Johnson June 16th 1755. SIR Since my last to you of the thirteenth Inst: the Parties are returned, whom I sent out in Pursuit of the Onogungeys, they discovered the Places of their Encampment, but could not come up with them; I still keep Parties reconnoitering. I have last Night with much Difficulty agreed with three Men, to build the two Forts at the Mohawk Castles; As wood fitt for that Purpose is very scarse thereabouts, I could hardly get them to undertake the Work for yt. Sum. The Interpreter tells, and Stoddert: who comes down with the Six Nations: writes me there are by far a greater Number of Indians coming down on my Summons, then ever was known to come before on any Occasion besides a great Body of Indians I expect from the Southward, which must make it very expensive maintaining them &ca I am am Sir with the Utmost Respect Your Honours Most Obedient & Most Humble Servt. Govr. Delancey. WM. JOHNSON MR. BANYAR TO SIR WM. JOHNSON. New York 16 June 1755. SIR I wrote you yesterday by Brasier the Express Sent by Mr Alexander, and at the Bottom of my Letter I added by the Governors Directions, that if you thought the carriage for transporting the Cannon which was made at Albany for the last expedition was proper, and could be made as well and as soon at Albany as at this place, that you should then employ workman to make them there, and that the Governor would See them paid for. This was on a presumption that the Albany Carriage was merely for transporting SIR WILLIAM JOHNSON. 661 the Cannon, but I now find by Col Roberts's information that the carriages made there exactly answers the Description of those I mentioned in a former Letter to you & they were to have had as many of them as they had Guns to carry. This being the case, and as they can be made sooner and its imagined better here, than at Albany the Governor orders me to acquaint you that he will have the ten carriages for the heavy cannon made here as soon as possible, and desires you will not proceed to get them made in consequence of my Letter of yesterday. As to the carriages for the four brass field pieces he desires you would order them to be made out of hand. Captain Eyre being on the spot will give the proper directions to the workmen whom the Governor undertakes to pay as well as for timber and Smiths work. If you have not Spunges Sadles &c there for them mention what is wanted and I will endeavour they be sent with the other things. Are there any and what Ball belonging to them? if not enough send down one of the Shot that is a patern. The ten large Battoes for the cannon must be made at Albany: But as the Governour expects the Assembly will come to a final Resolution this Day about our Quota of the Train he says he will Stay to hear what they do before he orders them to be made Those Carriages wee Saw at Alexandria had apartments in them for Shot powder &c which I think very necessary as the Guns may probably be used on the March. I am &c Gw BANYAR P. S. Mr Dies says the Carriages made at Albany wer done by Garret Lansingh and desires me to caution you agst. making them too heavy. 18 June Sent copyed the above to Col Johnson & reported that he would order the Carriages to be made for the 4 brass field Pieces and also proper Carriages for Such other Small cannon as he may take with him fr well the Gov will order Mr. diers to pay out of the ~20,000 Fund. To Major General William Johnson at Mount Johnson 662 XMANUSCEIPTS OF GENL. JOHNSON TO GOV. DE LANCEYo SIR My last Letter to Your Honour bore date the 16th Inst. Brazier brought me Your oblidging remembrance of the 15 Inst. he also brought me a Letter from Govr. Shirley with the Opinions of their two Houses of Assembly relating to the Allowance for my self and the Indian Officers, also a Specification of the Sundrys Provided and Providing by that Government for the Expedition to Crown Point. My Answer to him on these. Papers I send you herewith a Coppy of and also a List of the Sundrys necessary for the Artillery which are not Sufficiently provided and do not Stand in the Boston Specification, to all which I beg leave to refer Your Honour. The remainder of the Indians came this Afternoon and to morrow Morning I expect the hither Mohawk Castle' when there will be 9 Nations and if the Missusagaes come who they tell me are on the way there will be 10 the Interpreters say they never saw so great a Number before. from what I can hitherto Judge they are in good humour, but whither they will come into our Measures time must inform us. I hope the day after tomorrow to be able to make my Introductory Speech. It is necessary I dispatch Brazier with all possible Speed that my Letter may reach Mr. Shirley in time, who waits my Answer, he says he proposes not to stay above 24 hours in New York, I hope what may depend on him to settle there will be done before he leaves it. I have not scarce time to eat or Sleep such a variety of Business and all of it importunate for my Attention. I am with my best Wishes Sir, Your Honours Most Obedt & Oblidged Servt WM1. JOHNSQN Mount Johnson 19th June 1755 To Govr. De Lancey SIR WILLIAM JOHNSONo 663 EXTRACTS FROM A LETTER FROM GEN. JOHNSON TO GOUVERNOUR SHIRLEY, DATED THE 19TH JUNE 1755. With your Excellencys favour of the 9th. Inst. I received a Specification of the Sundrys which your Province have provided and are provideing. Herewith I send you a list of those things which are yet wanting or of which there is not a sufficient quantity in the said specification relating to the Artillery, and which I must earnestly recommend to your Excellency may be furnished without loss of time. The Report of the Committee of both Houses, in which they have concurred, & your Excellency consented, I have read and considered & beg leave to observe thereupon. That the ~600 therein mentioned for the Indian Service, is not specified to be Sterling or what Currency. I make no doubt it is the former & that the word Sterling is an Omission in this you will make me positive. To establish the Indians into Companys of 100 men each with Captains, Lieutenants & Ensigns, is impossible, that sort of regularity cannot be obtained amongst those People their officers ipust be Interpreters and take care of them in all respects, besides doing their Duty as officers. Ensigns will be needless. You may depend I will employ no more officers than what are absolutely necessary for the service. Herein I expect the Governments will confide in me and they shall have no just cause for reproach. The Pay set down for me, their Proportion of which your Province is to be answerable for, I submit to, but surely your Government doth not intend or suppose these Wages (as they term it) is to supply me with Equipage, with necessarys, charge of servants and the various other Expences which the Command will subject me to. I am far from intending or desireing a support for a vain or useless Ostentation, but they will I presume think it necessary that I sustain the honour conferred upon me with a Decent Dignity; the Troops will naturally expect to see it, the officers to feel it, neither my Policy nor my spirit will allow me to disgrace the Character I am placed in. The Province of New Jersey have agreed to give Collo. Peter Schuyler who commands 664 MANUSCRIPTS OF but 500 men ~300. Currency for his Table &ca. Is not a Secretary, are not Aid de Camps necessary about me, is there to be no Establishment for them? they must be always of my Table. I supposed, these matters would naturally occur to the Gentlemen of your Legislature, and I thought it would with more propriety come from them then be proposed by me. Perhaps thro hurry it may have been omitted in the Report you send me-for the Wages allowed me are I suppose considered only as a compensation for my Time & Fatigue: tho I make no objection on that head, yet I must on this occasion say, that no pay which even a lavish Generosity might have given me would be adequate to the loss & prejudice I shall sustain in my own private affairs, and if publick spirit had not prevailed with me above all other motives, I should have declined the honour which was offered me. I have already declared to you Sir & permit me to repeat it, that I disavow the least Intentions or desire of increasing my private fortune by this Command. I laid it to account in the best light, that I should be a considerable looser. I am contented to be so as far as I can prudently bear. I am fully sensible and Gratefull for the honour done me, I am ambitious, and if the Plan agreed upon at Alexandria is put into Effect, I hope with the Divine assistance to do honour to my Country, and Contribute to her future Tranquility. Your Excellency must pardon me for giving you so much interruption on this subject, but I thought myself oblidged to be thus explicit. If the Indians should agree to assist us in our enterprizes, they will throw themselves imediately upon me for their maintainance, which twill be daily a verry great Expence. If the measures agreed upon against the French, of which in my principal Speech I shall give them some general Notices, should be laid aside, depend upon it, we shall loose them for ever, nay I fear if we are not successful their opinion of us will be verry fatal for our Interest. If on the Contrary we should chastize the Insolence of the French, drive them from their Encroachments and maintain our Conquests, I dare prophecy wth common prudence on our side, the French will not rule a Nation of Indians on the Continent, and the SIR WILLIAM JOHNSON. 665 Inhabitants of these Colonies will reap a thousand fold for their present Expences, and enjoy their possessions in uninterupted security. GENL. JOHNSON TO GOV. DELANCEY. SIR This morning I was favoured with your Honours Letter bearing date the 19 Inst. At this time it would be to the last Degree Imprudent to communicate Govr. Glens Letter to the Six Nations. I dread the matters contained therein coming to their knowledge, as it would totally overset all our present measures with them & give the French a handle to set them against the English. Two Mohocks & Four Oneidas went with the half King when he left these parts & I much fear those are the people destroyed. I hope no certain account of it will come to them yet a while & then we may be able to take the proper steps with them in regard to this unlucky accident. I have now 1100 and odd Indians with me, men, VWomen and Children, and the Interpreters tell me there are more men than ever they knew at any meeting before. I have made them an Introductory Speech, to which I have received a very respectful answer. The 24 Inst I made them another Speech, a very long one, in which I gave them a general view of the present state of affairs & prepared them by various arguments to comply with the Contents of General Braddock which I delivered to them the next day. In both speeches I gave the War Belt wCll they took, ever since they have been in seperate & joint Council & have not yet given me their answer. If it should not be equal to all we wish, it will I hope be more than we had reason to expect. I am in private working with the Sachems & leading men from morning to night. The Fatigue I have undergone has been too much for me. It still continues & I am scarce able to support it. I am distressed where to get victuals for such numbers, they have 666 MANUSCRIPTS OF destroyed every Green thing upon my Estate & destroyed all my meadows. I must humour them at this critical juncture.'In my present judgment Govr Shirley dos not want the reinforcement of 500 men more, when I see & talk with him I shall be able to give my opinion more fully. The carriages for the Feild peices are in hand at Albany & I shall bespeak the Battoes for the Cannon. I send your Honour herewith the Information of one John Hart taken before Col. Lydius & Capt. Eyre. I beg you will please to communicate it to Govr. Shirley when he arrives as also what I have wrote about the Indians. I expect to have their answer some time tomorrow. I have already mentioned it, that those Indians who may engage to go with me, will expect to be maintained from that time forward during the service, this among many other solid reasons will I hope cause Dispatch in all who are concerned. My time will not permit me to write Govr. Shirley a seperate Letter and at present I have nothing more to communicate to him than what you will please to inform him from this with my respectful salutations I am Sir your Honours Mount Johnson Most obedt. hum servt. 27 June 1755.. W JoHNSON. To the Honble Governor DeLancey. I have this day wrote General Braddock a Letter & sent him a Copy of Harts Information &c. The Packet I have sent to the Post Master to forward to Philadelphia with all possible Despatch. ENCLOSURE. Albany 26 June 1755 SIR The following is the Account of John Hart conserning the Affairs of Canada Questn What Number of Men there may be in Arms against General Braddock A. 2000 French besides a Number of Indians which he thinks verry Considerable SIR WILLIAM JOHNSONo 667 Q What force the French may have with any Conveniency at Niagara to oppose the designs we may have against that place A Its impossible for them to send more than 1000 Men there but he thinks it scarcely probable to Detach such a Number from Canada in their present Circumstances Q What Number of Meh the.French have at present or may have to support & defend Crown Point in case of our Attack A About 800 besides what Indians they can Muster-that there is about 50 Men in the Fort, that its verry strong & in good Repair, for there was sent about 5 Weeks ago an Engineer & Gunners to put the Place in posture of Defence; as to the Number of Cannon he cannot say, but there is room in the Citadel for 32 only, he is of Opinion if we are able to have Vessels upon Lake Ontario it will wholly prevent a Single Man from going South from Canada to support any of the trench Garrison on Ohio. he further says when he was at Montreal that there was sent 700 Men from Quebeck towards Nova Scotia, but cant say how true it may be he is of Opinion the force General Braddock may meet will be an Over Match for him, as the french are determined to hold that placeMINUTE OF THE PROCEEDINGS OF THE ASSEMBLY OF MASSACHUSETTS BAY. At a Great and General Court or Assembly for his MN;jesty's Province of the Massachusetts Bay in New England, begun and held at Boston upon Wednesday the 28th day of May 1755, being convened by His Majesty's Writts. The Committee appointed to take under consideration his Excellency's Message to both Houses of the 6th Instant, have so far attended the Service as to consider the Extract from M/ajor General Johnson's Letter, referr'd to in his Excellency's said Message, and report as their humble Opinion. That a Sum not exceeding Six hundred Pounds be granted and allowed to be paid out of the Treasury of this Province, for the Service of the Expedition against Crown Point, to be applied 668 MANUSCRIPTS OF towards engaging the Indians of the Six Nations, and supporting them and their Families during the Continuance of the said Expedition; and that the Treasurer be directed to reserve the aforesaid Sum to be always ready to answer any Draughts that may be made on him by Major General Johnson, for the purpose aforesaid, Provided that the said Major General be accountable therefor, and that he draw on the Treasurer for so much only of the whole Charge, as shall be in Proportion to the Number of Troops in the Pay of this Province, compared with the whole Forces of the several Colonies concerned in the Expedition That for every Company of Indians, consisting of One hundred Men there be allowed Wages to a Captain at the Rate of Nine Pounds Sterling p Month; To a Lieutenant at the Rate of Six Pounds Sterling p Month, and, to an Ensign at the Rate of Four Pounds Sterling p Month; their Pay to commence at the Time when they shall receive their Commissions. That the Wages of the General or Commander in Chief of the Forces in the aforesaid Expedition be at the Rate of Twenty five Pounds Sterling p Month, to commence at the Date of his Commission. That this Province do pay towards the Wages of the General and also towards the Wages of the Officers over the Indian Forces in the same Proportion as is before proposed in this Report it should pay towards the Charge of securing & supporting the said Indians. Which is humbly submitted, pr Order JOHN OTIS. In Council, June 7, 1755, Read & sent down, In the House of Represves June 7. 1755. Read & Ordered that this Report be accepted. Sent up for Concurrence T. HUBBARD Spkr In Council, June 7. 1755, Read & Concur'd, THos CLARKE DptY Secry Consented to W. SHIRLEY. SIR WILLIAM JOHNSON. 669 RESOLUTIONS OF THE ASSEMBLY OF N. YORK. Assembly Chamber the 5th July 1755. The House (according to order) proceeded to the consideration of the Letter from Lieut, Govr. Phips of the Massachusets-Bay, and the Vote of the General Court of that Province sent to this House Yesterday by his Honour the Lieutenant Governour touching the raising a number of Men for reinforcing the Army destined to Crown Point, in case a fresh supply should be wanted, and the said Letter and vote being read and Considered. Resolved, that in case the Army destined for Crown Point shall stand in need of Reinforcements, This House will provide ways and means for Supplying the Quota of this Colony of such Reinforcements. ORDERED that Mr. Verplanck and Colonel Philipse wait on his Honour the Lieutenant Governour with the aforesaid Resolution. By order of the General Assembly ABRML LOTT Junr. Clk. A true copy Examd. By Gw BANYAR D Secry Assembly Chamber the 5th of July 1755. ORDERED That Capt. Walton & Capt. Winne wait on his Honour the Lieutenant Governor and desire that he will be pleased to acquaint Major General Johnson that on this Colony's having furnished and Supplyed the Sum of nine hundred and forty four pounds-towards the Train of Artillery for the Expedition to Crown Point, over and above the sum of Two thousand pounds the proper Quota of this Colony and the sum of One thousand pounds advanced on the security of Part of the provisions allowed by the Colony of Pensilvania, His Excellency Govr. Shirley has engaged to furnish and Supply the sum of ~1652.-New York Currency or thereabouts for the said Train over and above the sum of ~3500. Lawfull money already provided by the Colony of the Massachusets Bay for that Service which Sums Compleat the 670 MANUSCRIPTS OF whole Estimate of the Train of Artillery, and that Major General Johnson is to Apply to his Excellency Govr. Shirley for the aforesaid Sum of one thousand six hundred and fifty two pounds By order of the General Assembly ABRM. LOTT junr. Clk LT. GOV. DELANCEY TO THE TREASURER OF N. YORK. New York 5th July 1755 SIR I have this day given my Assent to An Act for Providing for several services necessary towards carrying on the Enterprize of erecting one or more Forts at or nigh Crown Point And other Purposes therein mentioned "By which you will perceive there are Several sums directed to be paid to Major General William Johnson amounting in the whole to ~4451. The sum of ~50 allowed him for his Table the sum of ~457 for the use and Service of the Indiams and ~1500 part of the Sum of 3944~ towards Supplying the Train. I think it Absolutely necessary to be Transmitted to him immediately His Majesty's Service not permitting the Payment of it to pass in the usual Forms And therefore I desire you to pay those three sums amounting together to two thousand and seven Pounds to Captt. Peter Winne who hath promised me to deliver the same to Major General Johnson And you will take Mr. Winners Receit for that purpose I am Sir your very humble servt. JAMES DELANCEY Abraham De Peyster Esqr. Treasurer of the Colony of New York. SIR WILLIAM JOHNSON. 671 GOV. SHIRLEY TO GENL. JOHNSON. Albany 16th July 1755. SIR, Yesterday I reced the Engineer's Report of the State of the Powder in your Stores, with his Opinion that it is not safe to proceed in the Expedition under your Command without an Addition of 64 Barrells, as also your Representation to me thereupon: As I have greatly at Heart the Success of his Majesty's Arms, and particularly of the Command, wch. I have intrusted you with, I have examined into the Stores of the Niagara Expedition; & as I find I may spare you 52 Barrells of Powder out of mem, wch is the utmost I think I can safely do; that the Expedition to Crown point may by no means be retarded, I have now given Directions to Lt. Winder who hath at present the Care of my Stores, to deliver immediately that Number of Barrells to your Order, taking a Receipt for the same. I am, Sir, Your most Humble Servant. W. SHIRLEY. Major General Johnson COLL. JOHNSON TO THE BOARD OF TRADE. Albany 21 July 1755. MY LORDS, I went to Alexandria in Virginia to wait on his Excellcy. General Braddock. I received from and signed by him, a warrant for the sole superintendency and management of the affairs of the Six Confederate Nations of Indians their allies and dependants, also some Instructions relating to my conduct; I further received from him two thousand pounds sterling, part to be laid out in presents and the remainder for various other expences, which would arise from the part I was to act; besides this the General has given me an unlimited Credit upon Govr. Shirley for what further sums this service might call for. 672 MANUSCRIPTS OF Immediately upon my return home I sent Messages with Belts of Wampum thro' the several Nations, to acquaint them with my appointment, and to desire they would conme down to my house with all possible dispatch; they came and herewith I transmit to your LordPPs. an authenticated copy of my proceedings at this meeting. Tho' I have not General Braddocks Instructions for doing this, yet I have wrote him I should take this honour upon me, and as he is at a great distance from any of our Sea Ports Towns, I doubt not but both your LordPPs and the General will approve of this method. In the monies I have laid out, in those I shall be obliged to lay out, I have and shall be governed, by the most prudent frugality, which circumstances will admitt of; my accounts shall be kept with all possible regularity, and an undeviating integrity shall govern my whole conduct. I think it my duty to acquaint your Lordships with the following particulars relative to the department I am now placed in. From the weakness of the public influence of this Colony over the confederate nations; from the superior activity, attention and artful conduct of the French, the British Interest hath been long declining amongst these Indians. From informations confirmed by my own observations and experience, I am convinced that several of the most leading Men in the upper Nations of this confederacy, had entered into engagements with the French, and would speedily have effected a general defection from us to them and joined the French against us, and I fear their example would have produced a total destruction of our interest amongst the confederate Nations. I think I can now take upon me to assure your LordPPs there are very few, I hope none amongst the whole confederacy, who in the present disputes between the French and our Crown, do not sincerely wish us success and are disposed to assist our arms. I hope in a few weeks they will demonstrate this their present temper of mind by their actions. If we continue to exert ourselves with the spirit which seem at present to animate us, should be successful, and right measures are pursued with regard to Indian affairs, I doubt not but the ambitious and deep laid SIR WILLIAM JOHNSON. 673 schemes of the French, will not only with respect to these Indians, but all those various Nations who surround the Dominion of great Brittain in America be frustrated but receive a mortal wouand. True it is, that to obtain this desirable end, a great expence for perhaps some years will necessarily arise, but the alternatives in my humble opinion most glaringly deserve it, and the beneficial consequences will abundantly repay it. Three things appear to me necessary to be put into execution with all convenient speed, and which I humbly recommend to your LordPPs attention. First: that the complaints of the Indians respecting their lands, be taken into a speedy and impartial consideration, and a final determination made therein. They have often and warmly applyed to Governors here, but met with no redress some very powerful and wealthy people in this Province are I believe concerned in these complaints. The two patents which the Indians lay most to heart, are Cayaderossoras and the Cannojoherry Patent, and till justice is done them therein, f am convinced they will think themselves oppressed and I fear with some reason. I apprehend the common powers of a Govr. merely as such, are not equal to this affair. I hope your LordPPs wisdom will fall upon some happy method to terminate by sufficient authority these perplexing matters, which when the time grow more calm, will, if not remedied, be of fatal consequence. I gave the Indians my promise (speaking in their language) that I would write to the King their Father on these complaints and that I did not doubt but he would do them justice, and this they expect. The second particular which I would humbly recommend to your LordPPs attention is: To build wooden Forts at the Chief residing place of each Nation who can be prevailed on to admit it; to keep each of them garrisoned with at least a Lieuts. Party; that the office be judiciously chosen, laid under certain restrictions, and that to both officers & Men by encreasing their Pay or by some other methods it be made an eligible duty. Thirdly: That a provision be made for Gunsmiths or armourers, to reside at each of the said Forts, that a warehouse of such commodities, Rum excepted, as the Indians are in the most constant VOL. ii. 43 674 MANUSCRIPTS OF want of, be kept in or near said Forts, to be sold under proper regulations by persons understanding their language who may also act as residents and Interpreters, accountable to the supperintendant of Indian affairs, and to be by him authorized, and that no other person or persons do presume to interfere in the said business. My unwillingness to press upon Your Lordpps patience, and the call of the public upon me at this interesting juncture, will not permit me to enlarge further upon these hints, to which I beg leave to add, the securing the Navigation of Lake Erie and Lake Ontario, both which I am glad to find are now on foot. Since my public transactions I have had a private conference with some Indians who tell me, their chief reasons against going to General Braddock's assistance, are, that as they doubt not Govr Dinwiddie's Influence over those Southern Nations of Indians who live on the back of Virginia, will procure their assistance to Mr Braddock, and that if those and they were to meet together, as a good understanding does not at present subsist between them, some Broils might arise, fatal to themselves, and very disserviceable to our Cause. I have advised General Braddock hereof. Govr Shirley will, I make no doubt find as many Indians at and about Oswego as he will want. In my humble opinion, his safety does not require any in his way up thither as it lays thro' their several Countrys. The Indians were of the same opinion as are most persons whom I have heard speak on the subject. I expect upwards of 360 will join me in my March towards Crown Point. The Colonies have made a provision only for 300 and that not sufficient in many articles. I have endeavoured to do my duty in the station I am placed with regard to Indian Affairs, to the utmost of my abilities. I have neither spared myself Day or night, and have indeed greatly injured my health by it; I shall however rejoice if my conduct meets with your LordPPs approbation, and that I may thereby be honoured with his Majtys gracious acceptance of my duty and faithfulness. My Lords, Justice and Truth, call on me to acknowledge, the faithfullness, diligence and capacity of the Secretary for Indian Affairs in the execution of his office, he has at present but about ~60 sterlg per annum without any perquisitesI am-My Lords. ettc. WM JOHNsoN SIR WILLIAM JOHNSON. 675 LT. GOV. DELANCEY TO GOV. PHIPPS. New York 6 Augst 1755SR The Assembly met here this Morning and Just as I was going to Town I received your Letter of the 30th July which I communicated to the Council they and I am of a different opinion from Govr Shirley as to the employmt of the Additional Troops to be raised We are here of Opinion they should without a moments delay be sent to reinforce the provincials under Major Gen1 Johnson as we think they Cannot be soon enough at the River Oudiere to Cause the diversion proposed And therefore can be more usefully employed in removing the French encroachmts at the Lake Champlain There is the Greater reason to send our Reinforcemts that way as it is probable some of the French Troops from France may have escaped up the River St Lawrence who will undoubtedly be sent to oppose our Troops at Crown point This Consideration renders it necessary for us to make the Strongest Effort this way here our Success will open us a door to enter their Country in case of a War which from the Events in No America appears to me inevitable The Assembly this Afternoon voted 400 Additionals to the 800 we had before And as I shall be empowered to press or draught Men for want of Voluntiers I have reason to hope these 400 Men will soon be sent away & Join the other provincials in season. I hope your Governmt will be of the same opinion with this & dispatch whatever Men you intend for the Assistance of their Countrymen without delay. I have laid a very Strict embargo upon all provisions here except to Halifax Annapolis & Chiconicto in Nova Scotia so that besides the Act of Assembly to restrain all Trade with the French both in North America and in the Islands no Vessels can go hence to any part even of his Matis Dominions. And I hope we shall starve the French in Luisburgh & by Gods blessing give them a Chastisement in other places May we have Ample Amends for the disgrace We have Sustained on the Ohio. Be pleased to inform Governor Wentworth that the Assembly here have voted 400 Men. I am Sr &ct Spencer Phips Esqr. 676 MANUSCRIPTS OF SECY BANYAR TO GEN. JOHNSON. New York 6 Augt. 1755. SIR The Governor being extremely busy in dispatching Expresses different ways has directed me to inclose you a copy of the Assembly's Resolution to raise 400 Men to reinforce the Troops under your Command, and to acquaint you that all possible Dispatch will be used in raising the Men, who will be either impressed or Draughted if a sufficient Number of Voluntiers do not offer, so that he hopes they will be at Albany in about three Weeks or less. It is expected that Connecticut will immediately raise 500 Men for the like purpose and the Governor is now writing to Governor Phips, desiring that the 500 Men which Governor Shirley recommends to be raised by this Goverment to attack the French Settlements on the River Chaudiere may be ordered forthwith to join you being clearly of opinion from the distance of the place that the diversion intended by that Measure will not have the Effect proposed, I am Sir your most obedt. humble servan Gent. Johnson. Gw BANYAR Assembly Chamber City of New York August 6th: 1755. The House according to order Resolved itself into a Committee of the whole House on his Honour the Lieutenant Governor's Message of this Morning and the several other Papers Referred to the said Committee after some time spent therein Mr. Speaker Resumed the Chair and Mr. Watts Reported the Resolution of the Committee which he read in his place and afterwards delivered in at the Table where the same was again read and is as followeth Vizt Resolved that it is the opinion of this Committee that there be forthwith raised and Subsisted by this Colony four hundred effective Men Officers included to Reinforce and Strengthen the Army SIR WILLIAM JOHNSON. 677 destined to Crown Point And the said Resolution being read a second time Resolved that the House do agree with the Committee in the aforesaid Resolution. ORDERED that Mr. Watts and Mr. Walton wait on his Honour the Lieutenant Governor with the aforesaid Resolution. By order of the General Assembly ABRM. LOTT junr. Clk Copy Examd Gw BANYAR D Sec'ry RESOLUTIONS OF THE GENERAL COURT OF MASS. At a Great and General Court, or Assembly, for His Majesty's Province of the Massachusetts Bay, in New England, begun and held at Boston upon Wednesday the 28th. day of May 1755 and continued by Prorogation unto Wednesday the 6th. of August following, and then Met. Province of the Massachusetts Bay The Committee appointed to take under Consideration, His Honour the Lieut Governour's Speech, to the two Houses, are humbly of opinion, that there be forthwith raised, in the pay of this Government, Three hundred Men, in addition to the Five hundred Men, ordered to be raised last Session, and sent as soon as possible to join & Strengthen the Forces now gone to Crown Point, all which is humbly submitted in the name and by order of the Committee; and the Committee ask leave to sit again and to report further August 7. 3755 EZEK CHEEVER P order In Council August 7. 1755. Read and sent down In the House of Representatives August the 7th. 1755. Read and Accepted, and Ordered, that there be forthwith raised, three hundred Men, to reinforce the Expedition to Crown Point, and that there be paid to each of the said three hundred Men, twenty four Shillings by way of bounty, upon his Enlistment; & twelve Shillings more, upon his producing sufficient Fire Arms, at the first 678 MANUSCRIPTS OF Muster; and that the pay, or wages, shall commence at the time of inlisting, and the subsistance at the time of Marching from their place of dwelling, to the place of Rendezvouz: and that no deduction shall be made out of their Pay for any of the Bounty, they so receive. And that there be allowed three Shillings, to the Officer, for each of the said three hundred Men inlisted by him: And it is further Ordered that the like Bounty, and Encouragement, be allowed to each of the Five hundred Men, to whom this Court in their late Session, allowed Six Shillings to hold himself in readiness, for the Service, including the said Six Shillings: And His Honour the Lieutenant Governour is desired to give Orders for said Men, to March in Companies as fast as they are compleated, to join the other Forces already gone on the Expedition to Crown Point; And to acquaint the other Governments concerned in this Expedition, of these Resolutions, and urge them to raise a proportionable Number of Men for the said Service. Sent up for Concurrence T HUBBARD Spkr. In Council August 7. 1755 Read and Concur'd THos. CLARKE Dpty Secry Consented to S. PHIPS Copy Examined THos. CLARKE Dpty Secry GENL. JOHNSON TO LT. GOV. DELANCEY. Camp at the Great Carrying Place 15 Augt. 1755. SIR I arrived yesterday at this Camp. This morning 1 called a Council of War, the minutes of which I inclose your Honour. I could not as yet have Returns from the whole Army as some of the Troops are not yet come up, but by the best judgment we can make, the number of the whole will not exceed 2850 men fit for marching to Crown Point. The army is in general pretty healthy, SIR WILLIAM JOHNSON. 679 but from the season of the year, and upon various other accounts, there is more reason to expect our sick will encrease rather than decrease. From all the Informations I have hitherto been able to obtain, we may expect a strong opposition. For these reasons & sundry others wch time will not permit me to enlarge on, I join in opinion with the Council of War, that speedy Reinforcements will be needful for the Good of the present service, and I hope they will be accordingly sent us from yours & the other Governments concerned in the present Expedition. Our Amunition is rather short and our Arms in general but indifft. It will therefore I think be very necessary that the Reinforcements be sufficiently provided with the one, & proper Care taken with regard to the other. We shall loose no time but proceed in our opperations with all possible Dispatch. I am Sir Your Honours To the Honourable Most obedt. Lieut. Governor DeLancey. hum servt. WMI. JOHNSON. Col. Cockcroft with his Regt. is not yet come up, but I hope are to day at the great Falls abt. 8 miles from hence. I sent 30 Empty Waggons back from Stillwater to lighten his Battoes for to that place there is scarce water to swim a light loaded Battoe. There have been great Desertions in his Regt. & a great deal of uneasiness, partly owing to the Connecticut Troops & partly to the Commissaries, who were full of frivolous scruples, wh is the mildest I can say of it. The Connecticut officers say that Mr. 0. DeLancey engaged to their Govt. that their three Companys should in point of Provisions &c. be put on an equal footing with the other troops of that Govt. Those have fresh Provisions now here in camp, such as Beeves & Sheep & I doubt not when the others come up that unless some measures are taken to supply them with the same, that Discontent will arise wh may greatly distress our Proceedings. I shall acquaint them that I have wrote to your Honour upon this Subject & I hope proper care will be taken therein. When they were ordered to march from the Flatts, 680 MANUSCRIPTS OF they absolutely refused to strike their Tents until their Billeting money was paid, wh the Pay masters refused to do, tho the Capts offered to indemnify them for the same, this retarded our march Two days. I am Sir Your Honours Most obedient Humble servt. WM. JOHNSON. MINUTE OF A COUNCIL OF WAR. HEAD QUARTERS Camp at the Great Carrying Place friday the 15 August 1755 At a Council of War held by the Honourable Major General Johnson PRESENT Major General Johnson Major General Lyman Colonel Ruggles Colonel Titcomb Colonel Williams Colonel Goodrich Lieut. Colonel Gilbert Lieut. Colonel Bagly Lieut. Colonel Pomroy Lieut. Colonel Pitkin Lieut. Colonel Whiting Lieut. Colonel Cole Capt. Peter Wraxall Secretary to General Johnson General Johnson acquainted the Board that He had received a Letter from the Lieut. Governour of New York wherein He advises Him, that the Assembly of that Province had made a resolve to raise 400 Men in order to Reinforce the Tioops already Raised upon the present Expedition against Crown Point; And Major General Lyman laid before the Board a Letter he had rec': SIR WILLIAM JOHNSON. 681 from Governour Fitch of Connecticut, wherein he desires to know if it is the opinion of the Council of War of this Army that 500 men agreed to be raised by the Legislature of that Colony be Needful to be imediately sent to Reinforce the Troops already assembled at this Place. Hereupon General Johnson put the Question; whither the above Reinforcements should be sent to join the Army with all possible dispatch and are Needful for the Good of the present Service. Agreed in the affirmative Nem: Con: General Johnson then put the following Question- whither He should write to the Commander in Chief of Massachusetts Bay to desire that the 500 Men intended to make a Diversion upon the River Chaudiere supposed to be raised in the said Province be imediately sent to join this Army. Agreed in the affirmative Nem: Con: This Council of War are of opinion that Authenticated Copies of the foregoing Votes be imediately dispatched to the Several Governments who have raised Troops on the present Expedition and that the Colony of Rhode Island and the Govt. of New Hampshire be desired to send their Proportionable Reinforcements as soon as possible. P. LYMAN TIMO. RUGGLES MOSES TITCOMB EPH. WILLIAMS ELIZAR GOODRICH THos. GILBERT JONATHN. BAGLY SETH POMROY JOHN PITKIN NATHAN WHITING EDWARD COLE A true Copy compared & Examined with the original minutes by me PETER WRAXALL Secr. to the General. 682 MANUSCRIPTS OF MAJR GENL. JOHNSON TO LT GOV. DELANCEY. Camp at the Great Carrying Place 24th of August 1755 SIR Herewith I inclose your Honour the minutes of a Council of War which I called and at which were present all the Field Officers in Camp. I refer you thereto for particulars. That we have many natural Obstacles to expect-that the French may of themselves out number us-that they will take post and Fortify themselves in some advantageous Place on this side Crown Point, probably at Tionderoga that they will greatly out Number us in Indians, and that by the Cognawagas engaging in their favour, our Indians will in general be less willing to take part with us as they are very many of them related to the Cognawagas and have Mothers, Sisters, Brothers &c among them, and that Some of our Indians will upon that acet actually decline engaging-I say that I incline to these Opinions and therefore do agree with the Council of War in thinking that all present circumstances collected, very strong and speedy Reinforcements are necessary to obtain the acquisition of Crown Point. The Road is now making from this place to Lake St Sacrement where I propose to build Magazines and raise a defensible Fortification either as a safe retreat in case we should find the Enemy to strong for our Force and be obliged to quit our Ground, or upon well grounded intelligence find it the most prudent measure to halt there till we receive Reinforcements. As I think the Troops under my Command both Officers and Men Seem to be animated with becoming resolution and Courage, I hope they will approve themselves in all respects worthy of the confidence which their country hath reposed in them and I shall endeavour to the utmost of my abilities to fulfil the Duties of that station in which I am placed. If we should not be so happy as to gratify the expectations of all, I hope we shall not deserve the reproach of any. Under the conduct of the greatest human abilities success is very precarious and determined by that Power which no SIR WILLIAM JOHNSON. 683 mortal hand can resist. We are engaged in a Righteous and a Glorious cause and as far as Courage ought to carry Men I hope it will carry us. I hope the Governments in General and yours in particular will consider the naked state of their people who in the approaching season will stand in need of some warm Cloaths and Bedding, surely they deserve this consideration and relief, and I think it would be an affront to the Humanity and generousity of your Colony if they needed any arguments to stimulate them on this occasion. I propose to march to morrow or next day with the first Division of about Fifteen Hundred Men and some Indians, and a few Field Pieces for Lake St Sacrament and to order the remainder of the Troops to follow as soon as Possible with the heavy Artillery and Baggage. I am Sir Your Honours Most Obedient Humble Servant To the Honourable WM JOHNSON James DeLancey esqr &c SIR.-I received your honours favour of the 13th Inst. You will see by the minutes of Council of War, what they think necessary with regard to the New Hampshire Troops and as they are a fine Body of Men & we stand so much in need of them, I concur in opinion with the Council of War & have sent an Express to Col: Blanchard to join us with all possible Dispatch & I {d ubt not but the Colony of New Hampshire will readily put the affair of Provisions on an equitable Footing with the other Govts I have now about 60 Indians with me & expect to day or to morrow 200 more & hope in the whole we shall have near 400-I am throwing up works here but am afraid the essential part of the service will not leave time to perfect them before we move. I have ordered 300 men constantly to work at them under the directon of Capt Eyre they are to continue at it till General Lyman marches with the rest of the Troops & the heavy Artillery. As to Govr Shirleys Conduct and mine with regard to Indian Affairs, I have not time to write out & put Several Papers in 684 MANUSCRIPTS OF order wch indeed with Sundry others I thought more prudent to to leave at Albany, but upon the present Face of things I hope my conduct will be justified by my superiors & if I should throw the new Lights I have in possession upon this unfortunate affair I think General Shirley will appear very culpable. I am yr Honours most Humble Servt WM JOHNSON GENERAL JOHNSON TO THE BOARD OF TRADE. Lake George 3d Sept. 1755. MY LORDS As I left all those papers wcel were not necessary to the Military undertaking I am now engaged in behind me I cannot be exact as to the date when I had the honour to write your Lordships with a Copy of my Proceedings at the late meeting with our Indians. I think it was about the middle of July. 1 have now with me about 250 Indians & as small parties are every day dropping in I expect before I can be able to leave this to have full 300. I sent a Message in conjunction with the Six Nations to the Cagnawaga Indians who live in Canada in order to persuade them to stand Neuter in our present Disputes. I have had their answer, that it was not in their Power, that by Religion and Treaties they were so united to the French that they must obey their orders. The Sachems of the several Nations now with me have this day sent another Deputation to the sd. Cagnawagas to try if by fresh arguments they can bring them over to a Neutrality, and this is to be the last Effort. Our Indians appear to be very sincere & zealous in our cause & their young men can hardly be withheld from goeing out a scalping wch. is not thought either prudent or politic till the Cagnawagas give their final answer. Governor Shirley soon after his arrival at Albany in his Way to Oswego, grew dissatisfied with my proceedings-Emp]oyed one Lydius of that place, a man whom he knew and I told him was extreamly obnoxious to me, & the very man whom the Indians had [at] their public meeting, so warmly complained of, to oppose my SIR WILLIAM JOHNSON. 685 Interest and management with them. Under this man several others were employed-these persons went to the Indian Castles, & by bribes, keeping them constantly feasting and, drunk, calumniating my character, depreciating my commission, authority & management, in short by the most Licentious & abandoned proceedings, raised such a confision amongst the Indians particularly the Two Mohock Castles, that their Sachems were under the utmost consternation, sent Deputies down to me to know what was the occasion of all these surprising Proceedings, that I had told them I was appointed Sole Superintendent of their affairs wh. had given an universal satisfaction thro' all their Nations, but that now every Fellow pretended to be vested with Commissions & authority &c. I sent several Messages and the Interpreters up to quiet their minds, for my military department would not suffer me to leave Albany, as I was marching with the troops under my command, or I would have gone up & should have soon overset all these violent measures. I have at Albany a great number of Letters and Papers wch. give particular relations of the Behavior & villainous Conduct of these Agents of Govr. Shirley, but if I had them here I would not trouble your Lordships with a Detail wch tho' very shocking would be extreamly tedious. I shall only say in general, that a complication of more Scurrilous Falsehoods, more Base & Insolent Behaviour, more corrupt, more Destructive measures to overset that Plan of general Harmony Wch I had with infinite Pains & at a great expense to the public so lately established, could not have taken place than did in ye. conduct of these Agents of Govr. Shirley's. I spoke of it to Govr. Shirley, I wrote to him of it, but without Remedy. They pleaded his authority for all they did, and said they had his Commissions, & I can't but presume it must have been done with his knowledge and consent, in which I am confirmed by his letters to me. The reason or the pretended reason weh. Govr. Shirley gives for his opposing my Indian management and employing these Persons, is,that I would not get some Indians to escourt him from Schenectady to Oswego. I had indeed mentioned it to some of their Sachems, who told me that, as his way to Oswego lay through their severall 686 MANUSCRIPTS OF countries & Oswego itself is in the Senecas Country, they could not conceive there was any occasion for their escourting him, & that when he came to Oswego there was no fear but many of the Six Nations would according to my desire meet him there and assist him. Numbers of the Troops had gone up without any molestation not the least Interruption had been given to any one, the Traders to Oswego were daily going & returning with single Battoes. those who are acquainted with Indian Affairs well know, that it would have been the worst of policy for the French at that time to violate the tranquility of the country of the Six Nations. Tis true some small parties of enemy Indians had been discovered between Schenectady & my house, but they are looked upon as a set of free Booters & Govr. Shirley's Body Guard would have been a full security to him against any such-even his primier Lydius when I talked to him on this head told me he saw no want of Indians to escourt him & that he would endeavour to dissuade him from it. It is with Reluctance I trouble your Lordships with these matters, but as I have been honoured with a station of great Importance & entrusted with monies belonging to the Crown, it behoves me on every acct. not to be wholly silent, and I have said as little as I possibly could to give your Lordships some Idea of affairs for Wch. I apprehend myself accountable to your Board. Govr. Shirleys conduct not only shook the system of Indian affairs, gave me fresh vexation and perplexity but occasioned considerable and additional Expenses Wch. would otherwise have been saved; the profuse offers wCh. his agents made to the Indians in order to debauch them from joining me, tho' it did not succeed but with very few, yet gave to all such self-importance, that when I urged to any of them who made demands upon me the unreasonableness of them &c. they reproached me that they had refused Govr. Shirley's great offers from whom they would have had every thing they wanted. Under these circumstances & the acct. coming at that time of our unhappy defeat on the Ohio, I was forced to make compliances wch otherwise they would neither have expected nor I have submitted to. My Lords, I will hasten to a conclusion. From Govr. Shirley's SIR WILLIAM JOHNSON. 687 late Behaviour & his Letters to me I am under no doubt that he is become my inveterate enemy and that the whole weight of his Power & abilities will be exerted to blast if he can my Character -here and here only am I anxious-Gross Falsehoods (such he has already asserted in his letters to me,) artful misrepresentations, Deliberate malice, Resentment worked up by People in his confidence, whose Interest, nay whose very livelihood depends upon their inflaming him-these my Lords are circumstances wCh. I own disturb me-I am sensible Govr. Shirley has in many respects been an active and a useful servt. to the Crown-his rank in public Life will natturally give him consequence and gain him Influence. Were I to lay open in a particular manner the whole scene of my Conduct with regard to the public & him, and from,the Papers & Letters in my possession to contrast his conduct with regard to the Disputes between us.. I say were I to do this & any one should think it worth their while calmly to peruse & impartially to examine the full state of the Affair between us, I would rest Character, Fortune, & Life upon the Decision-but I apprehend, unless I am properly called upon to do this, such a voluminous appeal would not find either leisure or Patience from those Persons to read it & consider it whose opinions would be of the greatest Consequence, they would rather I believe think me Impertinent & too full of my own Importance. Therefore my present address on this Subject to your Lordships is to entreat you will at least receive those accusations against me wch. I suspect already are or will be transmitted by Govr. Shirley, with a suspension of your Judgment. If your Lordships are disposed to have the whole amply laid before you, & I live to receive yr commands, they shall be obeyed with all possible dispatch. In the mean time I beg leave to declare to your Lordships with the most unfeigned Sincerity as I did to the late General Braddock-that my only motives for accepting the Commission & powers he conferred upon me, were to serve my King & my Country at this important crisis. I stipulated with him for no reward for myself-and whatever Expectations I might indulge they were never equal to the fatigue nor the Disadvantages to my private Fortune wch. I foresaw I should & Wch. I have suffered. 688 MANUSCRIPTS OF My Lords, animated by my Loyalty, by my Zeal for the public safety and welfare (both which were at stake) and by some desire of Fame, I accepted General Briaddock's Commission & executed the trust reposed in me Chearfully to the utmost of my abilities & with Integrity. Govr.' Shirleys interfering in the authoritave & ill-judged manner he has done, was injurious to the true system of Indian Affairs, a violation of the terms of my Commission & an arbitrary Insult upon my Character. And I must beg leave to inform yr. Lordships that if His Majesty should think proper to honour me with the management of Indian Affairs, I am in Duty bound to declare, that I do not think I can -fulfill his royal Expectations & do that Service to my Country weh'. Majesty may expect from me, if my Proceedings are to be controuled by any Govr. who may by being ill advised or from Personal Resentments or from other undue motives, take upon him to counteract my measures. I must further beg leave to observe that unless the monies appointed to carry on Indian affairs are confided to my disposal & a certain Fund fixt on, I shall be ever liable to have my measures perplexed & opposed & often perhaps prevented from bringing into Effect Schemes wch by a precarious Fund I may be forced to drop & so loose that chain wCh may bind the whole Structure. By Govr Shirley's ill-grounded Resentments, from the imperious Stile- he writes to me since Gen1 Braddockls Death, from his threatening Intimations, I am confirmed in this Lesson, that a Subordinate Power here with regard to Indian affairs & a Fund dependent upon the will & pleasure of his Majesty's Govrs in these Colonies will be incompatible both with my abilities and Inclinations to Conduct them, & as I have no private or mercenary views to: serve by them, I must humbly beg leave to decline the Charge unless I am put upon the footing as above intimated. I shall always be desirous to take advice from any of His Majestys servts in these parts & to be accountable for my conduct to any Judicature His Majesty may think proper to appoint, but to be subjected to the Caprice & political views of Govrs. I cannot think will ever harmonize with one uniform Direction of Indian Affairs, & persuaded I am if they are branched out into various channels of power, the British Indian Interest in these parts will be unstable, perplexed, SIR WILLIAM JOHNSON. 689 & in the end totally lost, and upon that footing I would not choose to have the least hand in them. I am building a Fort at this Lake where no house was ever before built nor a rod of land cleared, wch the French call Lake St Sacrament, but I have given it the name of Lake George, not only in honor to His Majesty but to ascertain his undoubted Dominion here. When the Battoes (certain small Boats so called) are brought from the last Fort I caused to be built at the Great Carrying Place abt 17 miles from hence, I propose to go down this Lake with a part of the Army and take post at the end of it about 50 miles from hence at a pass called Tionderogue abt 15 miles from Crown Point there wait the coming up of the rest of the Army & then attack Crown Point. The whole amount of our Troops fit for Duty at present are abt 3100-but the colonies are sending Reinforcements, for it is expected we shall have the main strength of Canada to contend with & great numbers of Indians. Our Battoes must all come hither by land upon carriages wch makes it very tedious & I believe we have near 600 to come. I am with the utmost respect, My Lords, your Lordships Most Obet. RUMOR OF A BATTLE BETWEEN THE ENGLISH & FRENCH. New I Garret Vanzandt of the City of Albany being examined York ss says he came from Albany thursday last at Sunset, employed by Mr. Hansen to carry Dispatches from the Camp to the Governor. That he heard Major General Johnson was attacked in his Camp at Lake George by a Body of about 4 or 5000 French, on Monday Morning last about 10 oclock, that the Battle continued about 6 Hours, and then the French retreated precipitately leaving all their Baggage and all their Provisions-That he heard 6 or 700 of the French were killed, and about 100, of the English. Among the latter are Col Pitkin, Col.' Williams, Capt. Jonathan Stevens, Capt. Farrel, Capt. Stoddert, Cap: Wm McGennis, That General Johnson was wounded through the upper part of the thigh. That Capt. Butler, Capt. Teady Magin and Hendrick the Mohawk VOL. nI. 44 690 MANUSCRIPTS OF Sachim are missing & supposed to be kill'd That the English Army consisted of 2500. That between Pokeepsingh and the Manor of Livingston about 1000 Men passed him in their Way to Albany. That when he left Albany there were about 1000 Men there. That Col. Renselaer went from Albany with about 200 Men Tuesday Morning and believes reached the General's Camp by Thursday Evening. That on his Way he heard there were about 10,000 New England Men marching to Albany. That 4 or 500 he believes were arrived at or near Albany before he left it. That he understood all these Forces were going to the General unless stopt by orders from him. That he heard at Albany there was only 27 of our Indians killed. That he heard the French Indians run away after being drove up twice to the Cannon by the French. That the French General is dangerously wounded and him and his Aid de Camp Prisoners, their Lieutt. General killed. That our waggoners, who were not armed, as soon as they observed any English or French fall ran and took up their arms and fought. Where the French were most in Number our Indians fell upon & attacked them. That on Tuesday last an Express was sent from Albany to Esopus to Col Gaasbeek Chambers to send Men up to Albany, to which he said he would consult the Act of Assembly, and at that time had Lawyers with him. On Wednesday another Express was dispatched from Albany for the same purpose who met an Express coming from Esopus to Albany to enquire whether the News was true, on which the Albany Express said he had a Mind to kill him. Both Expresses then went to Esopus-and the People were called under arms on Wednesday & discharged and ordd. to appear next day. But that he met one Capt. Elpendorph with 50 Troopers on Thursday Night 20 miles from Albany,who when he first heard the News push'd off with these Men without waiting for Orders. SIR WILLIAM JOHNSON. 691 BATTLE OF LAKE GEORGE. [Lond. Mag. xxiv.] GENL. JOHNSON TO THE GOVERNORS OF THE SEVERAL COLONIES. Camp at Lake George, Septr. 9. 1755 GENTLEMEN, Sunday evening the 7th. instant I received intelligence from some Indian scouts I had sent out, that they had discovered three large roads about the South Bay, and were confident a very considerable number of the enemy were marched, or on their march towards our encampment at the Carrying-place, where were posted about 250 of the New Hampshire troops, and five companies of the New York regiment. I got one Adams, a waggoner, who voluntarily and bravely consented to ride express with my orders to colonel Blanchard of the New Hampshire regiment, commanding officer there. I acquainted him with my intelligence, and directed him to withdraw all the troops there within the works thrown up. About half an hour, or near an hour after this, I got two Indians and two soldiers to go on foot with another letter tothe same purpose. About twelve o'clock that night the Indians and soldiers returned with a waggoner who had stole from the camp, with about eight others their waggoners and forces without orders. This waggoner says they heard and saw the enemy about four miles from this side the Carrying-place. They heard a gun fire, and a man call upon heaven for mercy, which he judged to be Adams. The next morning I called a council of war, who gave it as their opinion, and in which the Indians were extremely urgent that 1000 men should be detached, and a number of their people would go with them, in order to catch the enemy in their retreat from the other camp, either as victors, or defeated in their design. The 1000 men were detached under the command of colonel Williams, of one of the Boston regiments, with upwards of 200 Indians. They marched between eight and nine o'clock. In about an hour and half afterwards we heard a heavy firing, and all the marks of a warm engagement, which we judged was about three or four miles from us; we beat to arms, and got our men all in readiness. The 692 MANUSCRIPTS OF fire approached nearer, upon which I judged our people were retreating, and detatched lieutenant colonel Cole, with about 300 men to cover their retreat. About ten o'clock some of our men in the rear, and some Indians of the said party, came running into camp, and acquainted us, that our men were retreating, that the enemy were too strong for them. The whole party that escaped returned to us in large bodies. As we had thrown up a breastwork of trees round our encampment, and planted some field-pieces to defend the same, we immediately hauled some heavy cannon up there to strengthen our front, took possession of some eminences on our left flank, and got one field-piece there in a very advantageous situation: The breastwork was manned throughout by our people, and the best disposition made through our whole encampment, which time and circumstances would permit. About half an hour after eleven, the enemy appeared in sight, and marched along the road in very regular order directly upon our center: They made a small halt about 150 yards from our breast-work, when the regular troops (whom we judged to be such by their bright and fixed bayonets) made the grand and center attack. The Canadians and Indians squatted and dispersed on our flanks. The enemy's fire we received first from their regulars in platoons, but it did no great execution, being at too great a distance, and our men defended by the breast-work. Our artillery then began to play on them, and was served, under the direction of Captain Eyre, during the whole engagement, in a manner very advantageous to his character, and those concerned in the management of it. The engagement now became general on both sides. The French regulars kept their ground and order for some time with great resolution and good conduct, but the warm and constant fire from our artillery and troops put them into disorder; their fire became more scattered and unequal, and the enemy's fire on our left grew very faint. They moved then to the right of our encampment, and attacked. colonel Ruggles, colonel Williams, and colonel Titcomb's regiment, where they maintained a very warm fire for near an hour, still keeping up their fire in the other parts of our line, tho' not very strong. The three regiments on the right supported the SIR WILLIAM JOHNSON. 693 attack very resolutely, and kept a constant and strong fire upon the enemy. This attack failing, and the artillery still playing along the line, we found their fire very weak, with considerable intervals. This was about four o'clock, when our men and the Indians jumped over the breast-work, pursued the enemy, slaughtered numbers, and took several prisoners, amongst whom was the baron de Dieskau, the French general of all the regular forces lately arrived from Europe, who was brought to my tent about six o'clock, just as a wound I had received was dressed. The whole engagement and pursuit ended about seven o'clock. I do not know whether I can get the returns of the slain and wounded on our side to transmit herewith; but more of that by and by. The greatest loss we have sustained was in the party commanded by colonel Williams in the morning, who was attacked, and the men gave way, before colonel Whiting, who brought up the rear, could come to his assistance. The enemy, who were more numerous, endeavoured to surround them; upon which the officers found they had no way to save the troops but by retreating; which they did as fast as they could. In this engagement we suffered our greatest loss; colonel Williams, major Ashley, captain Ingersal, and captain Puter, of the'same regiment; captain Farrell, brother-in-law to the general, who commanded a party of Indians, captain Stoddart, captain M'IGinnes, captain Stevens, all Indian officers, and the Indians say near forty of their people, who fought like lions, were all slain. Old Hendrick, the great Mohawk Sachem, we fear is killed. We have abundant reason to think we killed a great number of the enemy; amongst whom is Mons. St. Pierre, who commanded all the Indians. The exact number on either side I cannot obtain; for tho' I sent a party to bury our dead this afternoon, it being a running scattered engagement, we can neither find all our dead, nor give an exact account. As fast as these troops joined us, they formed with the rest in the main battle of the day; so that the killed and wounded, in both engagements, officers excepted, must stand upon one return. About eight o'clock last night, a party of 120 of the New Hampshire regiment, and 90 of the New York regiment, who 694 MANUSCRIPTS OF were detached to our assistance, iunder the command of captain M'Ginnes, from the camp at the Carrying-place, to reinforce us, were attacked by a party of Indians and Canadians, at the place where colonel Williams was attacked in the morning; their engagement began between four and five o'clock. This party who our people say were between 3 and 400, had fled from the engagement here, and gone to scalp our people killed in the morning. Our brave men fought them for near two hours, and made a considerable slaughter amongst them. Of this brave party two were killed and eleven wounded, and five missing. Captain M'Ginnes, who behaved with the utmost calmness and resolution, was brought on a horse here, and, I fear, his wounds will prove mortal. Ensign Falsam, of the New Hampshire regiment, wounded thro' the shoulder. I have this morning called a council of war, a copy of the minutes of which I send you herewith. Monsieur le baron de Dieskau, the French general, is badly wounded in the leg, and thro' both his hips, and the surgeon very much fears his life. He is an elderly gentleman, an experienced officer, and a man of high consideration in France. From his papers, I find he brought under his command to Canada, in the men of war lately arrived at Quebec, 3171 regular troops, who were partly in garrison at Crown-Point, and encamped at Ticonderoro, and other advantageous passess, between this and CrownPoint. He tells me he had with him yesterday morning 200 grenadiers, 800 Canadians, and 700 Indians of different nations. His aid de camp says, (they being separately asked) their whole force was about 2000. Several of the prisoners say, about 2300. The baron says, his major-general was killed, and his aid-de-camp says, the greater part of the chief officers also. He thinks by the morning and afternoon actions they have lost near 1000 men, but I can get no regular accounts. Most of our people think from 5 to 600. We have about 30 prisoners, most of them badly wounded. The Indians scalped of their dead already near 70, and were employed after the battle last night, and all this afternoon, in bringing in scalps; and great numbers of French and Indians yet left unscalped. They carried off numbers of their dead, and secreted them. Our men have suffered so much fatigue for three SIR WILLIAM JOHNSON. 695 days past, and are constantly standing upon their arms by day, half the whole upon guard every night, and the rest lay down armed and accoutred, that both officers and men are almost wore out. The enemy may rally, and we judge they have considerable reinforcements near at hand; so that I think it necessary we be upon our guard, and be watchful to maintain the advantages we have gained. For these reasons I do not think it either prudent or safe to be sending out parties in search of the dead. I do not hear of any officers killed at our camp but colonel Titcomb, and none wounded but myself, and Major Nichols of colonel Titcomb's. I cannot yet get certain returns of our dead and wounded; but from the best accounts I can obtain, we have lost about 130 who are killed, about 60 wounded, and several missing from the morning and afternoon's engagement. I think we may expect very shortly another and more formidable attack, and that the enemy will then come with artillery. The late colonel Williams had the ground cleared for building: a stockaded fort. Our men are so harassed, and obliged to be so constantly upon watchful duty, that I think it would be both unreasonable, and I fear in vain, to set them at work upon the designed fort. I design to order the New Hampshire regiment up here to reinforce us, and I hope some of the designed reinforcements will be with us in a few days.:When these fresh troops arrive, I shall immediately set about building a fort. My wound is in my thigh, is very painful. The ball is lodged, and cannot be got out; by which means I am, to my mortification, confined to my tent. 10tk This letter was begun, and should have been dispatched yesterday; but we had two alarms, and neither time nor prudence would permit it. I hope, gentlemen, you will place the incorrectness hereof to the account of our situation. I am, gentlemen, most respectfully, Your most obedient servant, WILLIAM JOHNSON. [Another account of the above engagement will be found in the N. Y. Mercury Sept 22, 755, transferred to the Lond, Gent. Mag. xxv. 518.] 696 MANUSCRIPTS OF MAP OF THE COUNTRY AROUND LAKE GEORGE. [From Gent. Mag. xxv.] The little annexed map shews the situation of the country where the late engagement happened. The French imagined the English army would have crossed the ~ p 7'~ - carrying place from Fort JNi- l choison at G, to Fort Anne at F, and accordingly had staked'' ))lJ Wood Creek at C, to prevent their navigation; but General Johnson being informed of it, ) _ __ continued his route on Hudson's river to H. The French march- __3 c ed from C to attack his advanced t C detachments near the lake. The \ dotted lines shew their march. (' — A. Lake George, or Sacra- F. ment; B. Hudson's River; C. ( Wood Creek; D. Otter Creek; E. Lake Champlain; F. Fort -B\ Anne; G. Fort Nicholson; H. _ _____ The place where Gen. Johnson Miles 10 20 30 49 5o0 60 beat the French; H C. The rout of the French. ** Among the Mss. in the Sec'ys Dept. are the original Muster Rolls of the following companies which served in the campaign of 1755. Capt Phil. Jno Schuyler's Comp Albany 3 officers 89 rank & file " Edmond Mathews' " Albany 3 officers 97 rank & file " Isaac Corsa's " Westchester 95 " " PieterVanden Burgh's " Dutchess 3 " 78 " " Wm. Mc. Ginnis " Schenectady 3 " 89 " " Saml. Dimock " Seabrook Ct. 3 " 97 " " John Slap's " Durham " 3 " 97 Cc " Street Hall " Walingford 3 " 97 " SIR WILLIAM JOHNSON. 697 MINUTE OF COUNCIL. At a Council held at Fort George in the City of New York the 14th. September 1755 PRESENT. His Excellency Sir Charles Hardy Knight &ea. Mr. Alexander Mr. Rutherfurd Mr. Kennedy ( Mr. Holland. Mr. Chief Justice DeLancey Mr. Chambers. Mr. Horsmanden Mr. Murray J Mr. Smith. His Excellency communicated a Letter of the 10th Instant from Peter Wraxall Esqr. Aid de Camp to Major General Johnson, advising that on the the 8th Instant General Johnson's Army was attacked in their Camp, that after a conflict of 4 hours the Enemy gave way and fled. That the loss on our side is about 150 killed,, and about 100 wounded. That our Indians lost about 40. That the French General is wounded, and about 25 prisoners taken, about 70 of their Scalps taken by our Indians, and. His Excellency communicated a Letter of the 5th, from Governor Wentworth, advising, that the Government have passed an Act to raise 300 Men -And a Letter of the fifth from Governour Phips, advising that his Government, (Massachusets Bay) have passed An Act, to raise 2000 more besides 800 formerly provided for to reinforce the Army destined against Crown Point. His Excellency observed that from the Great Reinforcements sending to the Army, he was apprehensive there might be a want of provisions. The Council were of opinion, that two hundred Barrels of Pork, and Six Barrels of Vinegar, be immediately purchased and sent up to Albany, and that as other species of provisions may be had at Albany, His Excellency would be pleased on his Arrival there, to order such quantitys to be purchased, as he should find necessary. Whereupon Mr. Oliver DeLancey being called in, undertook to purchase and send to Albany the Pork and Vinegar, And his Excellency by the advice 698 MANUSCRIPTS OF of the Board, directed Mr. DeLancey to purchase 300 Fire Arms, over and above the 200, now in his hands belonging to the Province, all which the Council think necessary to be immediately sent to Albany, and doubt not, but the General Assembly will readily make provisions for these, or any other necessary services. The Council were also of opinion, that his Excellency should order nineteen Barrels of Gunpowder out of the Magazine, and twelve in the hands of Mr. DeLancey, which latter belong to the province to be sent to Albany. The Governor recommended to the Gentlemen of the Council if any infectious Distemper should discover itself among the Inhabitants of this City, during his absence, that they would order the persons to be removed, in order to prevent its spreading, agreable to the meaning of the Laws lately made in that case, and that they would make the necessary orders in all cases for Vessels performing Quarentine and the preventing infection. The Council advised his Excellency to issue a Proclamation Ordaining and appointing Thursday the second day of October next, to be set a part and observed throughout this province as a day of publick thanksgiving to Almighty God for his singular deliverance from our Enemies. Which his Excellency ordered accordingly. GENL JOHNSON TO THE BOARD OF TRADE. Camp at Lake George 24 Sepr 1755 MY LORDS I had the honour to write your Lordships the 3d Inst & thought myself under the necessity of laying open (to me) a very desagreable Scene. Since my last Said letter, the Enemy paid us a visit at this Camp. we were So happy as to give them a pretty Severe repulse & took their General, The Baron De Dieskau who commands all the French Kings Troops in Canada, Prisoner. As I make no Doubt but the Gen1. Letter wch I wrote to the Several Governments who raised Troops on this Expedition or the particulars drawn' from it of the actions & events of the Sth SIR WILLIAM JOHNSON. 699 Inst. has before now been transmitted to his Majesty's ministers, I shall not now interupt your Lordships with any Repetition of that narrative. The next day after this affair, the Indians acquainted me that they proposed to returne home as was their constant Custom after an Engagmt. wherein they had met with any considerable Lossfor what passed on this occasion in a publick way, I refer your Lordships to the inclosed minutes. They told me in private that one prevailing motive for their return home was that as the French Indians & they had now drawn the Sword against each other they expected the Enemy might fall on their Settlements, & therefore it was necessary for their general Safety to go home & put their people on their Guard, call Councills & take every needful precaution. and that when I should acquaint them that we were ready to go forward with the expedition & fix a Day for their Return they would come more in number & with a Determination of Revenge upon their Enemy-they lost about 30 of their people & among wch many eminent Sachems & warriors very faithful to our Interest, they Sustained the chief attack from the Enemy in the morning action, and they complained to me that they were Sacrificed by the Backwardness & flight of our People, & I fear from the most impartial accts they had reason-every one of their officers who were in the Engagmt were Slain. Your Lordships will observe from the inclosed Minutes that they repeat in a verry earnest manner that the Cagnawagas may never again be suffered to trade either at Albany or Oswego. In my humble Opinion, to grant their request, to prohibit & to prevent by the Strictest Execution of law all trade with the Said Cognawagas or Subjects of the French Kings either at Albany or Oswego or elswhere by any of his Majesty's Subjects in these parts, but more particularly at Albany, will be a measure of the most useful Kind will highly distress the French, who by the great trade between Canada & Albany are enabled to Supply the Indians with Goods wch otherwise they could not but under great Disadvantages, & hereby they make us Tools to the increase & Stability of their Indian Interest. We might then push a stronger & more successful Interest amongst them & have one of the most powerful means in 700 MANUSCRIPTS OF our hands to draw off the Cognawagas from the French reunite them to their Bretheren of the 6 Nations & prevail on them to return to their antient habitations in this Province. Sr Charles Hardy is come up to Albany in order to push forward the present expedition I hope to See and hear when I propose to lay this matter before him, but I foresee that if Sr Charles embraces my Sentiments & tries to push them into effect he will meet with great opposition from the Dutch Traders at Albany who by their cabals & weight in the Assembly may perhaps Distress or at least vex him. Those People are So devoted to their own private Profit that every other public Principle has ever been Sacrificed to it. I will detain Your Lordships no longer than to assure you of my most Sincere Inclinations to promote what appears to me for the honr and Interest of His Majesties Service and that I am My Lords Your Lordships To the Right Honourable Most Obet hum Servt & Honourable the Lords of Trade &c. endorsed Genl. Johnsons Letter to the Lords of Trade 24 Sepr. 1755. THE LORDS OF TRADE TO GENL. JOHNSON. Whitehall, October ye 9th 1755. SIR I am directed by the Lords Commissrs for trade and Plantations to acknowledge the Receipt of your Letter dated at Albany the 21st of July, acquainting their Lordships with your having been appointed bythe late General Braddock to the sole Superintendency and Management of the Affairs of the six united Nations of Indians, their Allies and Dependants, and inclosing a Copy of the Minutes of your Proceedings at the Interview held with them at Mount Johnson in consequence thereof. The many Proofs which their Lordships had received, not only during the last War, but since, of your great Ability & Influence SIR WILLIAM JOHNSON. 701 in the Management of the Affairs of the Indians, and in keeping them steady to their Engagements, notwithstanding the Artifice of the ffrench on one side, and the Abuse and Neglect of our own Colonies on the other, induced their Lordships to think it their Duty to recommend you to His Majesty for this important Trust upon the present great Occasion; and when their Lordships reflect upon the happy Consequences with which that Appointment has been attended, and that perhaps it was the only means left of preserving the Friendship and gaining the Assistance of the Indians, it gives them the greatest Pleasure that their Recommendation had the desired Effect. The Number of Indians which attended the Meeting at Mount Johnson, so much larger than had ever appeared at any former Interview, at least of late years, was a happy Omen of Success, & their Lordships hope the manner in which the Treaty with them was conducted, and the prudent and forcible Arguments which were used to engage them to take part with Us in our Attempts to dispossess the ffrench of their Encroachments, will have the Effect to fix them stedfast in Our Interest. If the Indians are really sincere in their Declarations, and We on our part observe a proper conduct towards them, by seeking the most effectual means of redressing the Grievances and Impositions they so justly complain of, and by inviolably adhering to Our Engagements with them, this well tim'd Renewal of the CovenantChain with them, will, their Lordships doubt not, be attended with all the happy Consequences so strongly marked out in your Letter. The Transactions at Albany at the last Interview there, clearly marked out the Necessity and Expediency of a speedy, impartial and effectual Examination into these Complaints of the Indians with respect to the Kayoderasseras & Conojoharry Patents, and other like Violations of Our Treaties and Engagements with them, and that the Indians may be fully convinced that there was no want of a proper Attention on the part of Government here to these important Matters, I am directed to inclose to you a Copy of the Instructions given to the present Governor of New York thereupon, which you will communicate to them in case you think it advisable so to do; How far these Instructions will be effectual to obtain Redress in these Complaints of the Indians, must depend 702 MANUSCRIPTS OF upon a Variety of Circumstances which do not, nor cannot appear to their Lordships, but if the Directions contained in them appear to you to be ineffectual, it will be a great Satisfaction to their Lordships to have your Sentiments upon this Matter, and your Opinion, what will be the most effectual Method to obtain this desirable end. It has long been their Lordships Opinion, that the Affairs of the Indians ought to be regulated, established and conducted under some one general Plan and System, adapted to their particular Situations, and Comprehensive of every thing which can contribute to their Security, Convenience and Satisfaction, but it will be impossible for such a Plan to take place whilst there is no Fund existing for defraying the necessary Expences of the Service Their Lordships however would be glad to have your Opinion of what shall appear to you to be the most proper plan for the Direction of Indian Affairs upon such a general System, and if in the mean time, the Measures recommended by you shall appear to be immediately necessary as temporary Expedients to engage the Friendship of the Indians, and keep them firm in our Interest, their Lordships doubt not, but a proper Attention will be shewn to them, as well as to Mr Wraxhalls Situation (whose Salary appears to be greatly inadequate to the Hardships and Fatigues of his Office) by Mr Shrley who has now the chief Command in America, and consequently the Direction of this Service, and to whom their Lordships recommend to you to apply upon this and every other Matter which relates to this Branch of it. I am, with great truth, Sir, Your most obedt humble Servt JOHN POWNALL Secry [Here follow arts. 90, 91, 92 & 93 of His Majesty's Instructions to Sir Charles Hardy, Gov. of N. York, but we have not room for them at present.] GENL JOHNSON TO THE REPRESENTATIVES OF QUEEN'S COUNTY. Octob. 10. 1755. GENTLEMEN, A few days ago I received a letter from Messrs. Schuyler & Depeister, of Albany acquainting me that you had sent to them 69 SIR WILLIAM JOHNSON. 703 cheeses and 200 sheep, being part of 1000 raised in Queen's county on Long Island as a present to this Army, and which they had forwarded to me. This letter was read at a Council of War, consisting of all the field officers in this camp, which I summoned yesterday afternoon. The most equitable and useful division hath been made of this generous and public-spirited present, which we could follow. Tho cattle and a few sheep had been sent by some of the Provinces to their Troops, yet your sheep were very Seasonable; and highly beneficial to the Arm in general. Your Cheeses were highly acceptable and reviving; for unless amongst some of the officers, it was food scarcely known among us. This generous humanity of Queens county is unanimously and gratefully applauded by all here; we pray that your benevolence may be returned to you by the Great Shepherd of human Kind, a hundred fold; and may those Amiable housewifes, to whose skill we owe the refreshing Cheeses, long contiune to shine in their useful and endearing stations. I beg, gentlemen, that you in particular will accept of, and convey to your generous county, my grateful & respectful salutations for their seasonable beneficence to the Army under my command. I am Gentlemen Your Most obedient and Obliged Servant W. JOHNSON. [From the London Gaz.] Whitehall Nov. 18. 1755. The King has been pleased to grant unto Wm. Johnson of New York, America, Esqr. and his heirs male the dignity of a Baronet of Great Britain. 704 MANUSCRIPTS OF REPORT OF THE BOARD OF TRADE TO THE KING. To the King's most Excellent Majesty May it please Your Majesty, In obedience to Your Majesty's Commands signified to Us by Mr. Fox, one of Your Majesty's Principal Secretaries of State, in his Letter dated the 18th, of November last, We have taken into Our Consideration the Copy of a Letter from lMr. Thomas Penn, in behalf of himself and his Brother, Proprietaries of Pennsylvania, to Mr. Fox, together with a Copy of a Message from the Governor to the Assembly of that Province of the 20th. of July last, relating to an Offer, then made and now proposed to be enlarged, of a Grant of Lands, in different Proportions, to such Officers and Soldiers as shall engage in the publick Service. Whereupon We beg Leave humbly to represent to Your Majesty, That We cannot but greatly approve the Zeal, which Mr. Penn has by this Offer expressed for Your Majesty's Service, which in the present Exigency of Affairs certainly calls for every degree of Support and Encouragement which can be given to it; But as the Lands intended to be granted are said in general to lie to the Westward of the Allegany Mountains, We are apprehensive, that the proposed Settlement may comprehend within it part of those Lands (being sixty Miles from the Lakes into the Country) which the six Nations of Indians, by a solemn Deed in 1726, surrendered to the Crown of Great Britain to be protected and defended for their Use as hunting Lands; And in the quiet Possession of which, Your Majesty, in your Instructions to S1. Charles Hardy, Your Governor of New York, has directed him to give them the strongest assurances of your Royal Resolution to protect and defend them, forbidding him upon any pretence whatever to grant Lands to any Person within the Limits described in the said Deed, but on the contrary to use his utmost Endeavours to prevent the making any Settlement within the same. In order to remove this objection, by shewing that the Six Nations had voluntarily and fairly sold and convey'd to him all their Right and Title to the Lands now offered to be granted, Mr. SIR WILLIAM JOHNSON. 705 Penn (by whom We have been attended upon this Occasion) produced to us a Treaty concluded by his Agents with the sachems of all the said Nations at Albany in July 1754, In which Treaty We fin'd a Deed whereby the said Nations, for the Consideration therein mentioned, convey to the Proprietaries of Pennsylvania all the Lands lying within that Province, bounded and limited as follows, vizt. beginning at the Kittochtinny or " blue Hills on the West Bank of Susquehannah River, and thence " by the said River to a mile above the mouth of a certain Creek "4 calld Kayarondinhagh, thence North West and by West, as far " as the said Province of Pennsylvania extends to its Western "Line or Boundary, thence along the said Western Line or " Boundary to the South Line or Boundary of the said Province, " thence by the said South Line to the South side of the said " Hills, along the said Hills to the place of beginning." We must however beg Leave to observe to your Majesty, that from the manner in which the Treaty for this Purchase appears to have been carried on, from the unwillingness which We find the Indians at first expressed to part with any Lands to the Westward of the Allegany Mountains, from the Declaration which they made to Sr. Wm. Johnson at the Conferences which he held with them in July last, that nowithstanding they had sold the Lands abovementioned to the Proprietary of Pennsylvania, they would.not part with more than half of them, and from their earnest request that the English might not be suffered to make any further Purchases, but that the Indians might be allowed to keep their Lands for themselves, there is great reason to believe that the making any settlement within the Limits described in the Deed of 1726, would give them the greatest uneasiness and Dissatisfaction. That your Majesty may be the better enabled to judge of the Expediency or Inexpediency of such a measure, We beg leave shortly to state to your Majesty the Nature and Situation of this'Tract of Country, the real importance of which to the six Nations will best appear, if We consider it in two lights, 1, as Hunting Lands, 2dly. as a great pass in the tract of the Indian Country. As to the first Point, the Inhabitants of this Country are Hunters, and as the Interests of a commercial Nation, in which it is to be VOL. II. 45 706 MANUSCRIPTS OF protected and by which it may be commanded, is it's Trade, so the great and main point with regard to these hunting Nations, if the expression may be allowed, is to have the Command of the hunting Grounds, which so far as regards the Beaver, the most valuable Branch of it, lie in the Environs of the great Lakes. With respect to the second Light in which this Object may be viewed, it must be observed, that there is no way of passing either to the East or to the West, or from the North to the South but thro' the Lakes, or over the Streights, Falls and carrying Places in and about them, unless it be by going round them, which as to all Business or advantage is impracticable. Unless therefore the Indians be left in Possession of this Country, they must lose not only the Command of it, but also the Use and Benefit of their Hunting. Possessed of this Country, they can descend by water-communication with the Streams to any part of the Continent from the Gulph of St. Lawrence to the Mississippi, for in this Country lie the Heads of the Delawar, Susquehanna, Ohio, St. Lawrence, and Hudson's rivers; and the Light in which they themselves consider it will clearly appear from the account which they themselves gave of it some time ago to a Person in whom they had Confidence at Onondage, vizt. That it has many advantages superior to any other part of America, the endless mountains (meaning the Apalachian) separate us, say they, from the English from Albany to Georgia; the falls of St. Lawrence and Sorrel River and the Mountains of Alnouchousen separate us from the French; If the French should prevail so far as to attempt to drive us out of our Country, We can with our old Men Wives and Children come down the Streams of the Mohawks River, the Delawar, both Branches of the Susquehannah and the Potowmack to the English; If the English should expell us our Country, We have a like Conveyance to the French, by the Streams of St. Lawrence, & Sorrell River; and if both should join, We can retire across the Lakes. From this short description of this Country, the Lines of Indian Politicks may be easily traced out, And their first Resolution not to part with this Situation either to French or English as Settlers; Their great Uneasiness when the French attempted to make a SIR WILLIAM JOHNSON. 707 Settlement at Niagara in 1719, which gave rise to that treaty of 1726, whereby they put their Country and Hunting Lands under the Protection of the Crown of England-Their Difficulties, when the Commissioners on the Part of Pennsylvania proposed to purchase part of this Country at Albany, and their Declaration to Sr Wm' Johnson, that, notwithstanding their purchase, they would not part with it, are Circumstances which clearly mark out what should be the Conduct and Politicks of the English with regard to them viz. to leave them in Possession of their Country according to the Description in the Deed of 1726, and to undertake the Guarantee of it to them, protecting them and their Hunting Lands in such manner as to command both it and them, and Yet most religiously to preserve the Use to them. Upon the whole therefore We are humbly of Opinion, that at any time, but more especially at present, when We ought cautiously to avoid giving any the least Cause of Jealousy or Distrust to the Indians, and religiously to observe Our Engagements with them', it would not be advisable to attempt the making any Settlement Upon the Lands, which by the Deed of 1726 are given by them to Your Majesty, to be protected for their Use. The Regard, which the Proprietarys of Pennsylvania have at all times shewn for Your Majesty's Interest and the Publick Service, leaves Us no room to doubt of their Acquiescence in this Opinion, And We have reason to hope that their laudable design of promoting the Good of that Service by their generous Proposal will not be defeated by it, as We Observe upon an Examination of the best Geographical Description and Dilineation of this Country, that there is within the Province of Pennsylvania a space of Land between the Mountains and the Limits of the Lands described in the Deed of 1726, more than sufficient for this or any larger Settlement which may be proposed. Which is most humbly Submitted. DUNK HALIFAX. J. PITT. Whitehall 1 (Signed) JAMES OSWALD Decbr the 11th 1755. ANDREW STONE. 708 MANUSCRIPTS OF SIR WM. JOHNSON TO THE BOARD OF TRADE. Mount Johnson 18th Deer 1755 MY LORDS The Season of the year & other circumstances made it necessary to klose the campaign & discharge the Provincial Troops under my command. When I first knew of my appointment to Indian affairs, I repeated my desire of being excused from my military command, I was Sensible & pleaded that it woud, as it actually did, So interfere with my administration of Indian affairs, that I could not attend them in the manner I wished to have done. By my Military Engagements I have not been able to be at my own House or in the Indian Country one day this four months. And now I am at last got home & am just entering into the administration of Indian affairs so as to form & conduct them to the extent of my knowledge and abilities for the good of His Majesty's Service, I am again obtructed & everything brot to a stand by Gen1 Shirleys Sending me a new Commission & Instructions for the management of Indian affairs & ordering me to attend him either at New York or Boston, the least of wch is 200 miles distant from hence; this journey I am but ill qualified for upon acct of my wound the effects of wch I still feel. I herewith transmit yr Lordships copies of Mr Shirleys letter, Commission & Instructions & also of my answer. The necessity I am under of going either to New York or Boston, to know upon what footing I am to go on with the administration of Indian affairs, or whether I am to go on at all, will continue these affairs in a State of confusion, besides I am to have a meeting with Some Indians of all the nations at this place the of next montho I propose to myself the Honour of writing your Lordships another Letter either from New York or Boston. I am most respectfully To the Right Ronble My Lord and Honbie Your Lordships most Obedt. & The Lords Commissioners of faithful Hum Servto Trade &e. &C. Endorsed Fort Johnson Decbr 18th 1755., My letter to the Lords of Trade SIR WILLIAM JOHNSON. 709 To the Right Honourable The Lords Commissioners for Trade and Plantations. The Memorial of William Johnson of the Mohawks Country in the Province of New York Esqr. SHEWETH. That the Memorialist in the year 1746 by the Appointment of the Honoble Mr. Clinton then Governor of New York, undertook the management of Indian Affairs, at that time in a very unfavourable Situation for the British Interest. and by great Application and Industry prevailed on the six Nations to take up the Hatchet and assist the English against the French. That during this Interval he advanced by Order of Mr. Clinton the sum of ~600 for Presents he distributed among the Western Nations of Indians, which had So good an Effect on them, that they offer'd to join the English against the French, if the former would Supply them with Arms and Ammunition. This was neglected, and the Peace took Place Soon after. That the Memorialist hath also advanced several other Sums of money for Publick Services: Accounts of all which have been laid before the General Assembly and repeated Applications made to them to allow the same, as well by Recommendations from Mr. Clinton, as since by Lieutenant Governor DeLancey, but without any other Effect than the allowing of some Articles of his Demand, others only in part, and the absolute refusal to allow any part of the ~600 abovementioned, the Assembly alledging that as the Memorialist laid out that sum by Mr. Clinton's Order, to him he ought to apply for Payment: So that there remains the Ballance of still due, besides Interest, which being computed and the whole reduced into Sterling amounts to That the Memorialist finding all Applications hitherto fruitless and vain, is obliged to have recourse to your Lordships for Redress, begging leave to lay before your Lordships this state of his Case, with the Account annexed, and that your Lordships will be pleased to offer the same to his Majesty, or to take such other Method for the Payment of this just Debt, as your Lordships in your great Wisdom shall judge proper and expedient. New York 14th: January 1756. Endorsed This was not sent 710 MANUSCRIPTS OF LETTER FROM SECT. POWNALLo Whitehall, March 5th. 175(6 SIR, Since my Letter to you dated the 2d of Decr last, His Majesty has been pleased to appoint the Earl of Loudoun, an Officer of Experience, Ability and Integrity, to be Commander in Chief of His Forces in America, and to direct that two Battalions of His Troops should be sent from hence, and four others raised in America for the defense and protection of the Colonies against the Hostilities and Invasions of the French; and as the Success of such measures as His Lordship shall think proper to pursue upon his Arrival for the general Interest and Security of the Colonies, and the Annoyance of the Enemy, will in great measure depend upon his having a large body of Our Indian Allies, to act in conjunction with the Kings Forces, and such as shall be raised in the Colonies, the Lords Commissioners for Trade and Plantations have thought it their Duty upon this great occasion to propose to His Majesty, that you should be appointed Agent and sole Superintendent of the Affairs of the confederate Indians to the northward, by an express Commission from His Majesty, being well assured, from the experience they have had of your Influence among them, and great Abilities in conducting their Affairs, that nothing can so effectually answer the great end proposed of fixing them steadily in our Interest, and engaging them in the Service; and that you may be the better enabled to answer His Majesty's Expectations, the whole Management of this Branch of the Service will be left entirely to your Discretion, and the Commander in Chief will be impowered to furnish you with whatever Sums of Money you shall have occasion for, either for building Forts for the protection of their Wives and Children, whilst they are engaged in the Service, establishing Smiths and other Artificers amongst them, or for making such other Regulations as may remove those Difficulties and Doubts in their Minds which have hitherto operated as an Obstruction to their heartily engaging with Us, and have induced some to enter into Engagement with the French; and that nothing may be wanting on the part of His Majesty to manifest his Regard SIR WILLIAM JOHNSON. 711 o.% iaem, Lord Loudoun will carry out with him a very large Present to be delivered to them. The redressing the Grievances complained of by the Indians with respect to the Lands which have been fraudulently taken from them, is a matter, to which a very serious Attention and Regard has been paid; and every Measure, which His Majesty could legally and properly take to redress their Complaints, and prevent the like Abuses for the future, has been pursued, as will more fully appear to you from the inclosed Copy of the Instructions given to Sr Charles Hardy with respect to this important point; and as a further Proof of His Majesty's Resolution to protect and defend them in their Rights, I am directed by their Lordships to inclose to you a Copy of a Report they have lately made to His Majesty upon an Application from the Proprietors of Pennsylvania, with a Proposal for making Settlements to the westward of the Mountains upon the Lands purchased by the said Proprietors of the Indians at the Meeting at Albany. All which Papers you will communicate to the Indians in such manner and at such times as you shall think most proper. As to the other Measures which you propose in your Letter of the 21st of July last as advisable to be pursued for putting Indian Affairs upon a proper foot, their Lordships entirely approve them, and have no doubt but that those Measures, as well as any other necessary to be taken, will be carried into execution under the Authority of the Commission which you will receive from His Majesty, and the Directions which will be given to the Earl of Loudoun to aid and support you to the utmost of his Power. I am, with great Esteem and regard, Sir Your most obedient humble Servant JOHN POWNALL Sr William Johnson, Bart. Secry 712 MANUSCRIPTS OF LETTER TO THE LORDS OF TRADE. Fort Johnson March the 6th, 1756. MY LORDS Since I did myself the honour of writeing to your Lordships the 37th. of January from New York, I have had a generall meeting of the Sachems and Warriors of the Six Nations and some of their Allies, particularly a more considerable number of the most remote nation of the Confederacy than has appeared at any Publick Meeting for many years past. It gives me the most solid pleasure that I can with the greatest truth assure your Lordships that the Six United Nations at this time give us the Strongest intimations of sincerity, and Fidelity, and that they are at length highly sensible of the treacherous, and extensive designs of the French, and from what I have more particularly observed at this meeting, I am convinced there is nothing wanting to cement and enlarge the Brittish Indian Alliance but unanimous and vigourous efforts against the common Enemy, to convince them we are in good earnest to put a stop to their encroachments, and at the same time that we are determined to protect and stand by them as our Friends and Allies. I herewith transmit to your Lordships a Coppy of my proceedings since I came from Lake George, as also of this publick Conference, from which your Lordships will be better able to form an Idea of the present disposition of the Confederate Indians, and from the facts contained therein, what future expectations we may entertain from our Indian Allies. They seem sollicitous now to enlarge their Confederacy by bringing in the Western Indians which I have been advising them to, these severall years, as a point of the utmost Consequence, and I flatter myself it may now (if we are successfull next Campaign) be accomplished. In order the better to bring about, and continue such an important Alliance, the Indian Trade should I think (with humble Submission to your Lordships) be seriously attended to, and put upon such a Basis, and under such regulations, and restrictions that it may prove the greatest means of bringing in the most remote Nations in a little time. Your Lordships will observe from the Treaty what their Sentiments are upon this important Point. SIR WILLIAM JOHNSON. 713 The intended Congress at Oswegoe is highly pleasing to the Six Nations in Generall, who are now verry sensible of the necessity of enlarging and strengthening the Covenant Chain by a more extensive Alliance, and of maintaining that Superiority which their Forefathers by Conquest obtained over so many and Powerfull Nations. how far they Interest themselves in this, and the many other weighty Matters I have proposed to them at this meeting, will appear by their Answers to which I beg leave to refer your Lordships. from the measures I have taken to give notice to the severall nations of my intention of meeting them at Oswego and the Persons employed for that Purpose, I have reason to expect a Numerous and I hope a Successfull Congress. The high opinion I have of the present Good temper of the Six Nations, is entirely grounded on Facts which are more conclusive than the most sanguine professions. The Onondagas, Tuscarora's, Oneidas and Aughquageys, your Lordships will observe have earnestly desired Forts in their Countrys, and that they might be properly Garrisoned this can proceed from nothing but a firm resolution of abiding by our Interest, and I look upon it a singular proof of their Fidelity. By this method the French have been so successful in their Indian Interest.-The Grand Monarch has employed his Troops to good purpose in that way, and I make no doubt all the Expence the Court of France has been at in Garrisoning the Indian Towns in their Alliance has been sufficiently compensated. I am fully satisfied this would be a measure of the utmost moment at this important Conjuncture, the Service I confess would be pritty extensive, and require a regiment, but the good Effects which such a step would produce, would abundantly make up the expence. It would be verry necessary to provide every Castle (especially where there is a Garrison) with a Worthy Person in the Character of Minister of the Gospel. I need not repeat how much the French have done by their Priests even among the Indians in our Alliance, that we ought to counteract them in all their measures I think quite obvious I therefore humbly beg leave to recommend this measure to your Lordships consideration, particularly with regard to Onondaga, and Oneida, that two proper Persons of 714 MANUSCRIPTS OF unblemished Characters might be sent as Chaplains for those Garrisons, and at the same time serve as Missionaries to the Indians, how much may be done in that way, may be readily gathered from the Success the Gospel has had among the Mohawks, who are our most hearty Friends. I beg the liberty to mention to your Lordships the Reverend Mr. Ogilvie Missionary to the Mohawk Indians who has upon all occasions done every thing in his power for the promotion of true Religion, this Gentlemans Sallary both for this place, and the City of Albany is verry inconsiderable, some further Encouragement to him by some Addition to his Sallary, would be of Service to the common Interest as it would enable him to proceed in His Mission,with greater Spirit, and to support the Expences that must attend the keeping up of common Hospitallity among so mercenary a people. At this Critical, and interresting conjuncture I am sensible the utmost attention should be paid to our Indian Alliance, and no measures left untryed that may have the least tendency to strengthen, and increase it, Wherefore I would humbly propose, a Steady, and Uniform Method of Conduct, a Religious regard to our engagements with them, a more unanimous and vigourous Exertion of our Strength than hitherto, and a tender care to protect them and their Lands, against the Insults, and encroachments of the common Enemy, as the most, and only effectual Method to Attach them firmly to the Brittish Interest, and engage them to act heartily in our favour at this, or any other time. I have the Honour to be with the utmost respect My Lords Your Lordships Fort Johnson Most obedient and March the 6th. 1756 Most Humble Servant WM. JOHNSON. P. S. After I finished my Letter the Chiefs of the Seneca Nation desired they might have a Fort Built in their Country, which I promised them, well knowing it will be the means of keeping out French Emissaries from among them and of securing them, and settling their former Weavering disposition. SIR WILLIAM JOHNSON. 715 This moment two Indians arrived here with the inclosed Letters, the one from Onondaga, is wrote by one of our Interpreters left there on purpose for Intelligence, the other is from an officer of General Shirleys posted about half way between this, & Oswegoe. I greatly fear we shall loose that verry important Garrison unless other measures are immediately taken. I dispatched an Express with the Account I recd. both to General Shirley and Sir Charles Hardy, & hope the former will send imediate Relief thither.-if not we shall certainly loose that place, and with it all our Indians Your Lordships will pardon my taking up so much of your time, & excuse the inaccuracy of this & the many blunders committed in Copying the transactions of the meeting. Occasioned by the Number of Indians still about me, which leaves me no time to think, or write. I am Your Lordships Most &ca. NOTES FROM EVANS'S MAP OF THE INDIAN SETTLEMENTS ON SUSQUEHANAH IN ORDER TO FORM A SCHEME FOR ATTACKING THEM. 14 MARCH 1756. Great Swamp lyes about 40 miles W: S. W from Cashuetunk or Station Point: from Bethlehem about 45 miles N N W: From Gnadenhutten about 23 miles N something W. This Swamp lyes just over the Mountains which Evans calls Cashuetunk Mountains, and is 25 miles from N to S and 15 from E. to W: The Bethlelhem People say 4 or 500 Indians keep in this Swamp, and from thence tis imagined they send out Parties to destroy the Settlements. Shamolin, lies on Susquehanah River, at the Mouth of the East Branch, on the East side of the Branch. JYescopeky the next Indian Town on the East side the same Branch is 25 miles from thence. Opolopong is another 5 miles distant. Wionming is on the West side of the same Branch 10 miles from Opolopong. JMatchasaung is on the East side of the same Branch distant from Wioming 13 miles. Solocka is six Miles from thence, on a Creek that comes out of the great Swamp, and this place is distant from the Swamp 18 miles thence to Canowdowsa on the E side of the 716 MANUSCRIPTS OF E Branch is five Miles. From thence to Owegy the next Indian Settlement is 47 miles, from thence to Osewingo is 18 miles and from thence there are no Indian Towns on the E Branch of Susquehanah, according to Evans, until you come Onochgerage distant from Osewingo 12 miles. The Great Swamp is 42 miles S: from Onochgerage: and tis remarkable that the situation of all these Indians Towns is such as renders it highly probable that they rendesvous at the Great Swamp, as the nighest part of it is but 16 miles distant from the E. Branch. and tis not but about 65 miles from Shamokin to the nighest part of the Swamp, and almost all the way by Water through the East Branch. This Swamp therefore ought to be attacked if tis certain or most probable the Indians rendesvous there. But as the Indians if they hear of our Intentions to attack them in their Post, or if we really attack them there, will fly to their Towns to secure their Families, (if they are not already moved) the Swamp and the Indian Towns on the East Branch of Susquehanah should be attacked at the Same time: and the Parties that attack the latter should go strong as they may possibly meet with the Enemy flying from the Swamp to their Settlement for their own and the Safety of their Wives & Children. Cashuetunk on this side Delaware, and Gnadenhutten on the other, seem both proper Places to build Forts at and to lodge Provisions and necessaries for the Army in. Being the nearest of any Place in either of the three Provinces to the Great Swamp, and the most convenient if the attack be made on the Indian Towns only. Carlisle the nighest Town to Shamokin is 25 miles from it. If therefore the Indians have not removed their Families from their Towns, but keep their Wives & Children & old Men there, and only their young Men and Warriors have betaken themselves to this Swamp. It seems rational the situation of the Towns considered to pursue the following Method in attacking them. 150 Pensilvanians to proceed from Carlile to attack Shamokin, and proceed to the other Indian Towns upon the East Branch until they Meet a Party of the Forces from the Northward. SIR WILLIAM JOHNSON. 717 The remainder of the Pensilvania Troops which will be 316 to rendesvous at Gnadenhutten. & when joined by 100 more to march from thence to the West side of the Great Swamp. 100 Jersey Troops to march to East Town from thence to Gnadenhutten to join the Pensilvanians and the remainder of the New Jersey Forces, & the Forces of New York to rendesvous at Cashuetunk or Station Point, and build a Fort on the West side Delaware and From thence to proceed to the West side the Great Swamp,there to meet the main Body of the Pensilvanians, and take their Measures according to the Intelligence they receive If the Enemy are not too strong at the Swamp a Party of 150 Men should be detached to the nearest Indian Town which is Candowsa on the E Branch of Susquehanah, distant 14 Miles from the W. side of the Swamp. Or if the Enemy have not taken Post in the Swamp, the Forces may divide themselves into three Bodies to attack the Indian Towns. Candowsa, Solocka and Matchasaung. After which a Body may be sent to attack Owegy & Osewingo and the other Indian Towns towards Shamokin. The New York & the Jersey Forces that march from Cashuetunk to the Swamp, besides carrying 10 days Provs: each Man, should have a Horse to every 5 Men,which will supply them with 14 days Provisions more. The Troops that march from Gnadenhutten should do the like & be furnished with Horses-1 to every 5 Men. The Horses must carry besides: Oats sufft. to serve them as long as they will be on the Service: & Men must be sent to return with them. SIR WM JOHNSON TO THE BOARD OF TRADE. Fort Johnson, 28th May 1756, MY LORDS My last Letter to Your Lordships bore date the 6 March, therewith I had the honour to transmit a Copy of my Proceedings in Indian Affairs from the time of my arrival from Lake George to that date. 718 MANUSCRIPTS OF I have since received Mr. Secretary Pownals Letter bearing date the 2 Decr wch Your Lordships did me the honour to direct him to write me. Genl Shirleys interfering in Indian Affairs & that with so much personal Resentment & such Prejudices against my management, was a matter of as much surprize as it was Mortification to me. I had many reasons to think I stood high in that Gentlemans opinion, which I had always endeavoured to deserve & to strengthen. If my sense of Duty to that part of His Majestys Service wch his Royal Orders had entrusted to my Management, had not unfortunately obliged me to have differed with Mr Shirley in Opinion, I should not have troubled Your Lordships with a Detail on that disagreeable subject-but as it did affect that part of His Majestys Service I thought I could not consistent with my Duty be silent to your Lordships thereon. Tho I have reasons to beleive I have lost Gen1 Shirleys Friendship & Confidence wch I wish myself honoured with for the good of His Majestys Service so far as it is connected with my Department; yet he hath of late silenced those Agents he set up in Opposition to me & of whose Conduct I complained to Your LordshipsI have the honour herewith to transmit to Your Lordships a Copy of my Proceedings since the date of the last I sent. The Slaughters & Devastations which have been committed on the Frontiers of His Majestys Southern Provinces, I doubt not yr Lordships have received particular accounts of from their respective Governors-It is certain that some of the Delaware & Shawanes Indians have been concerned in these Hostilities. till very lately those Indians were faithful Friends to us & lived in a peaceful & Harmonious Intercourse with his Majestys Subjects. What are the several & real causes of their Defection, I cannot take upon me at present precisely to ascertain. I beg leave to offer to Your Lordships my general Opinion from all I can as yet gather on the SubjectI would premise that the Defection of the Delaware & Shawanese Indians is not general, many I believe yet remain, if not firm to our Interest, not wholly lost to it. SIR WILLIAM JOHNSON. 719 These Indians were settled in the Neighbourhood of the French Encroachments on the Ohio, some were settled where the French have now Actually built Forts when His Majestys Troops under the late Genl Braddock were defeated, it gave the French who remained Mastrs of all that part of the Country an Opportunity to strengthen and increase their Indian Interest & Influence, they flattered they boasted & by persuasive & intimiditating Acts they won over several of those Indians who were before in our Interest and some who held themselves as it were neutral till they saw how the Event of that Expedition would turn out. Of these latter were the Twightwees, the Jenundadees & some of Chickesaw Indians who are as I am lately informed fallen in with the French Interest, but I apprehend more from hear than Choice. Those Delaware & Shawanese Indians who live nearest to the Ohio being seduced by the French, went amongst their Bretheren who dwelt on the Susquahanna, & propagated those prejudices against the good Intentions of the English wch the French had furnished them with at the same time making them offers & Promises from the French & magnifying their prowess, kindness & generosity; by these means they won over some & spread a general prepossession amongst the rest against the English. The Great Patents of Land wch had been purchased & taken up in those parts & our extended scattered Settlements beginning to crowd upon the Indians, had been a long Eye sore to them, infected them with Jealousy & disgust towards the English & they prepared them to be more easily influenced by the prosperity of the French Affairs & the ill success of our Arms; and when they saw after Mr Braddocks Defeat & Death, our Military Opperations ended as it were to the Southward & carried to the Northward, they joined the French and their Indians in their Depradations upon the Open & Defenceless Frontiers of those Provinces. The Third & last cause I shall suggest is my suspicion that these Indians who used to be more immediately under the direction of the Southern Provinces, had been either neglected or injudiciously treated at that critical time when the greatest address was requisite; something of this kind is hinted in the last proceedings wc. I transmitted to your Lordships. 720 MANUSCRIPTS OF These hints I humbly submit to your Lordships consideration, as this is a very important affair, I apprehended 1 might with propriety offer my thoughts thereon. There are some other particulars relative to this subject for wch I beg leave to refer your Lordships to the Papers herewith. In those your Lordships will perceive a Meeting at Onondaga was proposed by the Southern Indians in consequence of a Deputation sent to them at my earnest request by the Six Nations, at wCh. I agreed to be present & named the Day. but as I was from Informations very doubtful whether the Southern Indians were come to Onondaga according to their appointment, and the Two Mohock Castles with some other Indians of all the 6 Nations (except the Onondagas) were so averse to my attending this meeting at this critical juncture, I thought it would be prudent to be certain whether those Indians were actually at Onondaga before I undertook my journey thither, as the meeting them was my chief inducement for promising to go there, Messengers were accordingly dispatcht, & yr Lordships will see the Answer they have brought from the Onondaga Indians, and that they are so extremely pressing for my coming up & give such cogent reasons for it that I apprehend the good of His Majestys service will not dispense with my refusal, I am therefore preparing to set off so as to be there by the time appointed & I have Genl. Shirleys concurrence herein. I hope to meet some of the Delaware & Shawanese Indians there & if so, to talk over & settle matters with them on such a footing as may be very Beneficial to his Majestys service in general & the Tranquility of the Southern Provinces in particular. Besides this general Meeting appears to be necessary on account of those uneasinesses & jealousies wch. the Onondagas make mention of & which I find more or less prevails at present amongst most of the Indians of the Six Nations. One cause of which is from the Deserters of Genl. Shirleys & Sr. Wm. Pepperils Regments in which are I apprehend a great number of Irish Papists & Transports who were enlisted from the back parts of Pensilvania & Maryland they desert from Oswego & other Garrisons up this River, shelter themselves amongst the Indians of the Six Nations or pass thro their Country in their way to the back parts of those Provinces SIR WILLIAMB JOIINSON. 721 from whence they were enlisted & where they have Acquaintances & Confederates. from Malice & Policy, they pretend a great affection for the Indians, & invent Lying stories to justifie their quitting the service & ingratiate themselves with the Indians, who seeing they are surrounded by our present Armaments, being naturally prone to suspicion & the French continually working upon this their Disposition by false and artful representations of our views & measures, render these Reports of the Deserters more credible & pernicious. I am informed there are great numbers of them amongst the Delaware & Susquahana Indians who have done a World of prejudice to our Interest. I represented this matter to Genl. Shirley & proposed to him to impower me to offer the Indians handsome rewards for taking up & delivering such Deserters as may be or may come amongst them. Govr. Morris has published a Declaration of War against the Delaware & Susquahanna Indians, & a small Body of Men are raised in that Govt. & marched to build a Fort at Shamokin a Branch of the Susquahanna River. Tho Mr. Morris has worded this Declaration with Restrictions in favor of all our Friend Indians, yet as it is published & this Fort building without previous Notice & Explanation given to our Indians it hath circulated amongst them in a confused manner & put in a bad Light by the Ignorance & probably the Malice of Reporters. And tho I am fully sensible that the horrible Cruelties & Devastations wch. the Southern Provinces & Pensilvania in particular have suffered, call for their most united & vigorous Resentments, yet I cannot but humbly be of Opinion that Mr. Morris' Declaration of War backed with so small a Force as the 400 Men he hath raised, was premature, & that it would have been more advisable if he had alowed me first to have acquainted the 6 Nations & our friend Indians living on the Susquahanna with his Intentions especially as Mr. Morris in behalf of Pensilvania had applied to me to lay the Hostile Behaviour of the Delawares & Shawanese before the 6 Nations at the Meeting last Winter & he was apprized of the Deputation wch. the 6 Nations had sent, yet before he knew the result of their Embassy, he published this Declaration of War, which as a friendly Meeting was agreed upon at Onondaga with a Prospect VOL. II. 46 722 3MANUSCRIPTS OF of accommodating all matters with the Delawares & Shawanese at least such of them as had not left their settlements & absolutely engaged themselves to the French. I beg leave to observe to Your Lordships that while Affairs were thus circumstanced, I think Mr. Morris' Declaration of War had better been postponed till the Meeting at Onondaga had been over, when a better Judgment might have been formed to regulate his Proceedings. By perusing the Papers herewith I conceive your Lordships will find there is a Foundation for the Observations I have made on Mr. Morris' Conduct. My sentiments on this matter I have communicated to Genl. Shirley & Sr. Charles Hardy who have transmitted them to Govr. Morris. I have reason to believe Mr. Morris' Declaration of War, by Misrepresentations has not only alarmed the Six Nations, but will prevent the Southern Indians from coming to Onondaga & throw fresh Difficulties in the way of bringing about an Accommodation with the remainder of those Indians who were yet in a retrievable state. Another thing before I finish this interesting subject seems top me of sufficient importance to mention to Your Lordships. The half King and some other Indians of the 6 Nations were lately at Philadelphia. Govr. Morris had a Conference with them, acquainted them with his Declaration of War & gave them a War Belt to offer the 6 Nations in his name in order to join & assist. At the same time he allowed the heads of the Quakers who he well knew violently opposed all his Warlike Measures, to have a Meeting with the same Indians. They had & they sent me a Copy of what passed & they gave the half King a Belt of Peace to, present to the Six Nations in their name, telling them they were Descendants of the peaceable Penn that there were great Numbers of their Brethren in that Province who were averse to War & whose principles were to suffer Injuries & leave Heaven to protect & avenge their Cause &c. &c. These contradictory Measures & these Opposite Belts, the half King reported & showed a few days ago at a small meeting of some of all the 6 Nations (except the Onondagas) at my house The Indians could not conceal their surprise that One Province SIR WILLIAM JOHNSON. 723 should produce such Contradictions. And Your Lordships will I believe be of Opinion that it would do no great honour to our political Talents. My Lords I am sensible I am taking up a great deal of your Lordships time, but if I am not greatly mistaken the subjects I have and shall lay before you are of such importance to the British Indian Interest as will I hope justifie me in Your Lordships Opinion. In my last Letter I gave it as my real sentiments to yr Lordships that the Indians of the 6 nations had discovered at the then meeting, the strongest Intimations of their sincerity & fidelity, & that nothing seemed to be wanting to cement & enlarge our Indian Alliance but unanimous & vigourous Efforts against the common EnemyI will from no Motives My Lords misrepresent or conceal from yr Lordships what appears to me the true state of our Indian Interest. I am sorry therefore to acquaint yr Lordships that the 6 Nations in general & the upper Nations more particularly do not at present seem to be animated by so warm & active a Zeal in our favour as I could wish, & which it has been & shall be my unremitted Endeavours to inspire them with. Some of their Chiefs have in private conversation with me complained of our want of Vigor & good management in our Military Operations. They murmured at our inactivity last campaign at Oswego- They censured the weakness & knew the Deplorable state of that Important Garrison towards the latter end of last Winter for want of Provisions & told me they trembled for its Fate. They reproached us for laying up our Vessels the beginning of last October & that they do not yet appear on the Lake tho the French were sailing backwards & forwards the whole Winter. They were surprised the Great Carrying Place another very important post was so poorly fortified particularly at one end & such a handful of Troops left to protect it, They told the officers there that the French would certainly attack them & that it was not in a condition to make a good Defence. the event has shown they judged rightly & complained Justly. They reproach us with the Two regiments laying encampt at Albany & Schenectady & ask why they dont 724- MAN'USCRIPTS OF march against the French. I mention these complaints & reproaches of the Indians to Your Lordships, as Causes of discontent to them of their forming unfavourable Ideas of our Military Proceedings WCh tends to damp their spirits towards us & nourish that Awe of the French which hath & (loth too much prevail amongst them. I have endeavoured by every Method in my power to remove their Prejudices, but as they form their Judgments from appearances only, it is an extream difficult Task to -work upon their understandings. Another Cause of the 6 Nations standing in so much Awe of the French is the Great number of Western & Northern Indians in their Alliance & which hath been greatly strengthened since our unhappy defeat at the Ohio. These Prejudices My Lords are not the only disadvantages we have to contend with in endeavouring to raise & keep up in their minds a reputable Opinion of our Power & Consequence. The Cayouge & Seneca Nation are near neighbours to Niagara; the Onondagas & Oniedas are in the Neighbourhood of Sweegachie a French settlement on the River St Lawrence to wCh numbers of those two Nations have of late years been debauched & gone there to live. Tho our Indians do not now resort to, these Places as frequent & familliarly as they fomerly did yet some amongst them do occasionally visit there when the French & the Indians in their Interest, poison the Minds of ours with stories not only to the disadvantage of our good Intentions towards them but endeavour to frighten them with pompous Accounts of the superior prowess & martial Abilities of the French. These things are propagated amongst them and the truth really is they have had more reason to think highly of the French in this way than of us. But my Lords notwithstanding all these drawbacks upon the zeal and attachment of the Six Nations towards us, I am presuaded at this Instant & I hope I shall have when the approaching meeting at Onondago is finished, stronger reason to be persuaded, that if we wore now ready to go upon Action from Oswego & things were a formidable & favourable appearance, that the 6 Nations would join us with a Chearfulness and vigor which at pesent dos not so visibly appear. And I must beg leave to give it to you SIR WILLIAM JOHNSON. 725 Lordships as my fixt opinion upon the most Deliberate Consideration, that the Six Nations will never be thoroughly fixt to the British Interest & Arms, until we strike some grand stroke & thereby convince them that we have ability to protect them & humble the French, without asserting our Dignity & Consequence in some such way as this, Presents & Treaties a Diligent & Skilful Managment may keep the 6 Nations Friends & Allies, but will not destroy the French Influence & Attachment amongst them. Could we but give such a Convincing Proof of our Prowess, I will take upon me to answer for the Hearts & the hands of the Six Nations & to turn them with such Destructive Rage upon the French as would soon give a new Face to our affairs for this I am confident that the Six Nations almost to a man wish we had the upper hand of the French. They would not only I am persuaded thus exert themselves but bring over many great and powerful Nations to the Southward & Westward wCh. might be facilitated by our management that way. My Lords It would not become me to animadvert upon our Military Conduct here & to take upon me to advise therein might be going beyond my Tether, but what I have said I hope comes from me in character & permit me My Lords to say in general, that speedy, spirited & active measures are absolutely necessary to support, strengthen & extend our Indian Interest provided the Sword is to be kept drawn. I have in the former part of this Letter mentioned to your Lordships, that I am informed the Twightwees, the Jenundadee & some of the Chicksaw Indians have been obliged to submit themselves to the French since our Defeat at the Ohio & your Lordships will see that the Messasages who were invited by & promised M1. Shirley to meet at Osswego this Summer will not meet there but will at any of the Settlements of the 6 Nationsas the former Indians I fear dare not and the Messasages will not meet at Oswego, I suspect the intended meeting of the Western Indians there will not take effect. It happens very unluckily that by our Ships from England not arriving in their usual time this Spring, a sufficient quantity of 726 MAANUSCRIPTS OF Indian goods & things proper for Presents are not to be purchased, I have sent to New York, Philadelphia & Boston for several things but cannot get them. Sr. Charles Hardy has consented I shall give some of the Arms & 600 lb of Powder & lead in his name out of His Majestys Presents sent by him to the 6 Nations I heartily wish I had the rest of it, I wrote to him there wuld be scarce a more favourable opportunity of giving said Present than at this meeting. I would humbly propose to your Lordships that if His Majesty is pleased to continue me in the Superintendency of Indian Affairs, that I may be allowed to order such assortments of Indian Goods from England as are proper for the Service, I am convinced this will be a saving method to the Crown, & that the Indians will be much better supplied. The Presents wch. Govrs. have brot. from England here have been ill sorted, many Articles bad in their kind & some useless, particularly that essential Article of Arms. On my return from Onondaga I shall transmit your Lordships Copy of my Proceedings there & gave you such further Intelligence as may occur. I am my Lords most respectfully yr. Lordships Forts are now building in the Seneca's Country, at Onondaga, Oneida & Schohere. The Cayouga Indians have not yet applied, The Fort for the Aughquagas is upon the account of the Disturbances to the Southward, deferred till the meeting at Onondaga is over. JMemorandum on the back of the above letter. 100ft. square the Stockads P. or Ok 15ft. long 3 of weh. at least to be sunk in the ground well pounded & rammed & ye 2 touching sides square so as to lay close Loop holes to be made 4 ft dise.; 2 Bl. Hses. 20ft. sq. below & above to project 1 foot over ye Beams well roofd & shingled & a good Sentry Box on the top of each. a good Gate of 3 Inc oak PI. & iron hinges & a small Gate of Oak Plank of same thicks. Endorsed. Fort Johnson May 28th. 1756 My Letter to the Lords of Trade & Plantations with Indn. Proceedings, SIR WILLIAM JOHNSON. 727 EXTRACT FROM SIR WILLIAM JOHNSTONS PROCEEDINGS AT THE INDIAN CONGRESS AT ONONDAGA. The Informations of an Oneida Indian who hath Resided for Some time past at Swegachie and latly Came from Canada. That the French had Assembled in the Neibourhood of Cadaraghqui and Swegachie about 800 Indians, Ottowawas and Other Nations. That upon his and the Other Swegachie Indians Return from Onondaga they were Determined to march 2000 Men to the Oswego falls (about 12 Miles from Oswego) Their Build a Strong Fort, and Prevent Provisions, or Reinforcements from going by Water to Oswego. That another party were to March the New Road from Swegachie, and Build a Fort at the West End of the Oneida Lake, When these Posts were Secured, a Third Party were to make a Descent upon the German Flatts, Destroy our Magazine there, cut off the Garrison and Inhabitants and burn the Settlements, A fourth party were to Attack Sr. William Johnstons house, kill or take him, and Ravage the Settlements on that part of the Mohawk River. This Account he Said he had received from the Priest and Commanding Officer at Swegachie alias Gallette. Sr. William Asked him how the French were as to provisions, He Said he Saw Great Plenty every where, and that the Kings Stores houses at Montreal were full of all Kinds. That the French had 3 Sloops, and had Built 2 Large Vessels of 2 Masts, which were ready to Navigate Lake Ontario. Sr. William then told him, that he would have him return to Swegachie as soon as Possible, and Gather all the Intelligence he Could, and bring it to him, that this would be a determinate proof of his Fidelity and Sincere Repentance for what had past, and if he would take pains, and make himself Master, of the Strength, and Intended Operations of the French &c. he would Reward him According to the Consequence of his Intelligence from a 100 to 150 pC8. of 8 He engaged himself for this Service, and that he would return 728 MANUSCRIPTS OF as Soon as possible, with the fullest and best Accounts he Could Obtain. A true Extract from the Original Minutes Examined by me Signed PETER WRAXALL Secr. for Indian Affairs. SIR WILLIAM JOHNSON TO THE LORDS OF TRADE. Albany 17th July 1756. MY LORDS. I had the honour of writing your Lordships the latter end of May last & at the Same time of transmitting a Copy of my proceedings from the last date to that time. My proceedings at the late Onondaga meeting & at the Subsequent Treaty with the Shawnese & Delaware Indians at my House wCll ended 2 days ago, I cannot possibly transmit to your Lordships by this opportunity as they will require more time to copy than the Stay of the Packet Boat here will admit of, They Shall be got ready to transmit to your Lordships by the next man of War or Packet weh Sails for England. but I think it my Duty to give your Lordships the earliest Intelligence in my power of the chief Points wch have occurred at these meetings. In my last Letter to your Lordships I mentioned the Several causes of that Uneasiness & Coldness to our Interest wch I had reason to Suspect prevailed amongst the Six Nations, particularly the Upper Nations. The meeting at Onondaga confirmed my Suspicions, & I found the French had Made an advantage of this Disposition as had So much infected the Six Nations, that it required a variety of arguments, my utmost Influence & most vigorous endeavours to compose their Tempers, to expel the French Poison & reanimate them towards our Interests. All this however I was so happy as to Succeed in and I can with great Truth assure your Lordships, that at the conclusion of this important meeting, the Six Nations appeared to me Sincerely disposed to Second any vigorous attempts which might be made on SIR WILLIAM JOHNSON. 729 our Side against the French. They have engaged to put on foot amongst all their allies, a negotiation to join with them in our favour. They have promised to make the most vigorous efforts to draw off from the French Interest & Settlements those of their People who have gone over that way. I have reason to believe they begin to be Somewhat Jealous of the French, a point I have long laboured to bring about & am now in hopes it may in Some measure take place, if it Should operate to any height it will be attended with very favourable Consequences to his Majestys Service. At this meeting I also obtained the consent of the 6 Nations to cut a Road to Oswego thro their Country with their promise of Assisting in laying it out, and also for building a Fort at Oswego Falls 12 miles from Oswego provided that upon an accommodation with France it Shall be either demolished or put into the hands of the 6 Nations. The Enemy by the Intelligence I received at Onondaga are determed to take post there with a considerable Force & build a respectable Fort to cut off our Communication with Oswego, & if they do, it will very much Distress that Garrison & require our attempts to beat them off in order to preserve Oswego, These were the Capital Points I negotiated at Onondaga. Some of the Shawanese & Delaware Indians were there but unitil the Congress was upon the point of being closed, did not come in a sufft. number to enter upon Business & conclude affairs relating to them with proper Authority. That Treaty was therefore adjourned to my House, & those Indians with a Deputation of the Six Nations came down to Fort Johnson, where were Present, The Said Six Nation Depaties-the King or Chief of the Shawanese, The King or Chief of the Delawares, Settled on the Susquehanna & its Branches & great number of the Mehicander or River Indians whom I lately have drawn up from the Frontiers of this Province & New Jersey to Settle near to & under the Protections of our faithful allies the Mohocks- These Indians were originally Delawares & are Still regarded as Bretheren by them. At this Treaty the Shawanese chief on behalf of his People denied their having been concerned in any of the late Hostilities committed on the Southern Provinces, that they have & shall 730 MANUSCRIPTS OF continue to observe in conjunction with their Bretheren of the Six Nations, an inviolable attachment to their Bretheren the EnglishThat the Shawanese who are Settled on the Ohio have been many of them seduced by the French & their Indians to join in their late Hostilities upon the Southern Provinces, But that he had & should continue to use his utmost Influence to withdraw them from that Interest. The Delaware King or chief confessed that some of his people had been deceived and deluded by the French & the Delawares who lived near to Fort Duquesne, to join them in their late Hostilities. But that the Message I sent to them by the 6 Nation Delegates last winter & what past in both our names at the Treaty held in consequence of that Delegation at Otsiningo, had opened their Eyes & that from that time his People had laid down the Hatchet & ceased from further Hostilities. He expressed his sorrow & repentance for wt had past & asked Pardon with all the marks of a sincere contrition. In the most solemn manner he received the covenant chain of Peace, Friendship & Alliance in behalf of his People-he promised as a convincing Proof of their returning to their Duty & Fidelity to his Majesty, of their Sincere Intentions to maintain the Engagements now entered into to return such English Prisoners (wch he said were but few) wch had fallen to his People's share during the late Hostilities. Both he and the Shawanese King accepted the War Belt Sung & Danced to the War Song with extraordinary Fervor & promised to follow the Example of the Six Nations in our Favour & whenever I should call upon them to join me at any time or any where in Conjunction with the Six Nations. I concluded this Treaty with taking off the Petticoat or that invidious name of Woman from the Delaware Nation well hath been imposed on them by the 6 Nations from the time they conquered them, in the name of the great King of England their Father & on the behalf of all their Bretheren the English on this continent, & promised them I would use my Influence & best endeavours to prevail with the Six Nations to follow my Example, The Deputies of the Six Nations who were present approved of SIR WILLIAM JOHnSON. 731 this measure, but said they were not a sufft number nor properly authorized to it on behalf of their constituents, however they would make their reports & press it upon them. If this point should succeed & our military operations strengthen our consequence, I am persuaded the French will not be able to keep scarcely one Delaware in their Interest. As my success in this Treaty with the Shawanese & Delewares will be I hope of most happy consequence to the Tranquility of his Majestys Southern Provinces in particular. The moment it was ended I dispatched an Express with a generall acct of it to Genl Abercrombie at Albany desiring he would transmit it forwards, especially as The Govr of New Jersey to my great surprize had at this very juncture published a Declaration of War against all the Delaware Nation, of wch the first notice I had or have since received, was from the Publick Prints, wch, as Govr Morris had upon my Representations to Mr Shirley & Sr Charles Hardy, suspended the Execution of any Hostilities against them in consequence of his Declaration till the Issue of this Treaty however, appeared to me a proceeding in Govr Belcher of a very extraordinary kind. I wrote also Genl Abercrombie that in my opinion, if any Hostilities should be committed against the Delawares who had entered into this Treaty, they not breaking thro it by any fresh Acts of Hostilities, it would I apprehended be of the most fatal consequence to His Majestys Indian Interest in general, & throw these affairs into a state of confusion, from weh I believe no Person could extricate them. My Lords, Mr Secretary Pownalls Letter to me of the 5 March with the Papers therein mentioned I have received & when I have the Honour of a consultation with my Lord Loudoun, I shall answer to the articles therein mentioned, as I cannot at present do it with that Distinctiveness with weh I would always wish & endeavour to appear with to Your Lordships. I have the honour to be most respectfully My Lords Your Lordships Most Obedient Most humble Servant Endorsed Albany July 17th 1756 W. J.My Letter to the Lords of Trade 732 MAiNUSCRIPTS OF ORDER FOR ADDITIONAL TROOPS FOR THE GERMAN FLATS. By his Excellency Sir Charles Hardy Knight Captain General and Governor in chief in and over the Province of New York and the Territories depending thereon in America and vice admiral of the same. Whereas I have been enformed that of the five hundred Men lately ordered by Sir William Johnson Baronet from the Albany Batalion of the Militia to march to join him at the German Flatts only two hundred and fifty have as yet marched. And the present posture of affairs requiring a further Force to withstand the Enemy's attempts on that'quarter, which cannot be otherwise supplyed there by the Militia You are without delay to order as many Men of that Batalion as will complete the number already gone to five hundred, to march as soon as possible with proper officers to the German Flatts, there to join the other detachments of the Militia and obey such further orders as they shall receive from their Superior Officer. And in case a still greater Force shall be required from the Militia to protect that part of the Country. You are to give orders for the marching of such greater Force and even to march yourself with the whole Batalion if necessary on any Emergency. In which case you are to require Such aid from the Commanding officers of Ulster and Dutches as you shall judge proper to march for the security of the City of Albany. Given under my Hand at Fort George in the City of New York the sixth day of September 1756. To Sir William Johnson Baronet or in his absence to the Commanding/ officer of the Albany Batalion in the militia of the City & County% of Albany. l'ahandProfie ofRecliendtel\,ied 3k ronndlair keme i shous atle German ilatas 175 6. 2~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~Z2 ~~~-IZ ~ ~ 13........... c..:,.'' - s AF ~ ~ ~ ~ f~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~; o-g~~~e~ ~ 3v~ t s y ~<. ~...../ T. T.; SIR WILLIAM JOHNSON. 733 SIR WILLIAM JOHNSON TO THE LORDS OF TRADE. Fort Johnson 10 Sepr. 1756. MY LORDS, My last to your Lordships bore date the 17th. of July. Therein I gave a summary account of what had past at my meeting with the Indians at Onondaga & the subsequent Treaty at my House with the Shawanese & Delaware Indians. Herewith I have the honour to transmit your Lordships an authenticated Copy of all my proceedings at the said two meetings. About the time the unhappy news of the loss of Oswego arrived, I had fitted out several Parties of Indians, some of wch. were already gone a fighting to Canada, others were on the point of their Departure. These parties amounted to near 140 men of several Nations, many others were coming down on the same account, & there was the most favorable appearance of a general active spirit amongst them. The first accounts of Oswego put my Lord Loudoun upon designs of releiving it & by his directions I gathered all the Indians I could get together with the Militia, & took post at the German Flatts in order to assist Gen1. Webb who was at the Carrying Place, in such operations as might be found necessary for His Majesty's service, and I had between 2 and 300 Indians with me ready for service. The absolute loss of Oswego, the Garrison & every thing there, was soon confirmed to us. This unfortunate revolution in our military affairs entirely disconcerted all my measures & overset the Pleasing prospect I had, of thoroughly engaging the Indians of all the Six Nations in actual hostilities against the French, and thereby throwing upon them the necessity of summoning all their allies & dependants to take up the hatchet in conjunction with them, wch. would have been the natural Consequence when they had entered themselves into the War. Oswego in our hands fortified & secured by us, & our having a navigation on Lake Ontario, was not only a curb to the power of the French that way, but esteemed by the 6 Nations, whenever they joined our arms, as a secure cover to them & their Habitations 734 MANUSCRIPTS OF against the Resentment of the French, w0h. together with the Forts I had built in each of their Castles or Towns, except at Cayouge, and for wCh. Garrisons were promised them, left them to act for us in full security. This I am persuaded they were determined to do either in a Body with our Army, whenever that should march upon any Enterprize, or go upon the Scalping Service in separate Parties. But by our loosing Oswego, wch. I may call the Barrier of the 6 Nations, & thereby the possession of that part of the Country, they were laid open to the Resentments of the French, who might at any time they were inclined to it, with facility fall upon their Towns & cut them and their Families to pieces, especially those of the upper nations. In this light I knew the Indians would view the loss of Oswego, I found they did so, and that the spirit they had recently shown in our favour was sunk and overawed by the success of the French & the accumulated power wch. it gave them. Under these circumstances I judged the most prudent step I could take would be to summons a meeting of some of the Chiefs of each Nation as soon as possible at my House, in order to know their positive Determinations, & what part they proposed to act. My Lord Loudoun approved of this measure, & I sent a Belt of Summons thro' the Nations. Whether Delegates from all of them will come I cannot be positive, & I think it is doubtful; however I expect most will send, & in about a fortnight this important meeting will probably take place. The Speech I propose to make to them on the opening of the meeting, I shall first let my Lord Loudoun see & take his opinion and directions thereon as I look on it to be a delicate & interesting Point. Notwithstanding this ill fate of our affairs, some of almost every Nation are daily coming down hither & entering into Scalping Parties weh. I am sending out. My Lord Loudoun has sent me a Specification of His Majesty's Indian Presents sent by him, & was pleased to refer to me for the Division between the Northern and Southern Proportions. I have given my opinion in favour of 2 for the former & f- for the latter which to the best of my judgment will be most advantageous to SIR WILLIAM JOHNSON. 735 His Majesty's Indian Service. I have also proposed to My Lord that the Northern Presents may be given by me at such times, in such Quantities, and to such Persons, as will actually distinguish themselves in our favour & realy go upon service. As circumstances now are I think this method quite necessary, and would in my opinion be always best in War time. The Indians are naturally a mercenary People, & Mr. Shirley's conduct last year gave a keener edge to this disposition; and as it is now become necessary to buy their assistance, I apprehend it is best to make a sure Bargain & give to those Indians only who will act with us & for us, wch. is the method I propose for the future. I despair of their now engaging nationally with a sincere & active Zeal, & therefore I conceive giving Presents in the old general way, would be imprudent and an ineffectual Profusion. As soon as the proposed meeting is ended, I will transmit to your Lordships the result of it, with my best Judgement of the general Disposition, Views, & Inclinations of the 6 Nations. In my last Letter I acknowledged the receipt of Mr. Secry. Pownalls favour to me of the 5. March last, but deferred answering some particulars therein till I had the honour of a Conference with my Lord Loudoun. I have laid before his Lordship a List of such Officers & Persons, with the Establishments I proposed for them, as would be necessary for carrying on His Majesty's Indian Service under my direction. But his Lordship at that time was so much crowded with business that we could not wholly finish that affair; and indeed the alteration of circumstances since will admit of many particulars being suspended, till some more certain Judgment can be formed of our Indian Interest than at present. I received the Copy of Instructions given to Sr. Charles Hardy relative to those Patents or Grants of Land in this Province of WCh the Indians complain, and also Copy of your Lordship's Report to His Majesty upon a Memorial of the Proprietors of Pensilvania, both transmitted to me by Mr. Secry. Pownall. As to the former, the effectual redressing those Complaints strikes at the Interest of some of the wealthiest and most leading men in this Province, & I fear that Influence wch may be necessary 736 MANUSCRIPTS OF to succeed, will be employed to obstruct. I have I believe before mentioned to your Lordships my humble opinion, that applications on this head on this side the water would I imagined fall short of the desired End. I have the honour perfectly to concur with your Lordships in opinion upon the proprietors of Pensilvania's Memorial. In the Papers I had the honour to transmit to your Lordships by Mr. Thos. Pownall now here. The Jealousy of the Indians with regard to their Lands, their tenaciousness upon that Articletheir opinion of the present contests between the French and us, our respective Views & Designs-and the Influence these matters had on the conduct of the Six Nations, was discussed, tho' not in so ample a manner as the subject deserved & would afford. I am every day more and more convinced of the Truth of the observations contained in those Papers upon this subject, and fully am I assuredg the 6 Nations are sensible that the Deprivation of what they deem their property will be the consequence of either we or the French prescribing terms to each other-and hence the chief cause of their Indifference in our Quarrel. The French have very politically possessed themselves of important Passes, We have openly claimed large Tracts of Country & attempted Settlements thereon. The Indians have not perhaps reach enough to foresee the consequences of the valuable morsels the French have pitched upon, whilst our indiscriminate avidity alarms them with Jealousy, and raises prejudices against us wch are improved by the French, & by professions only endeavored to be removed by us. After the French had taken Oswego, they destroyed all our Buildings & sent word to the Onondaga Indians, that they had now drove the English from their Lands & would not like them, keep possession, but leave'em free to them and their Posterity forever. The French, in fact, did not want that Place, so made their Policy appear Virtue to the Indians, & the plausibility of it will doubtless influence them in their favour. I think I have before now hinted to your Lordships my opinion, that the Hostilities well Pensilvania in particular had suffered from some of the Indians living on the Susquahanna did, in some measure, arise from the large Purchase made by that Govt. two SIR WILLIAM JOHNSON. 737 years ago at Albany. I have more reason every day, from talking with the Indians, to be confirmed in this suspicion. I am inclined to believe, tho' this purchase was publicly consented to at Albany, some of the 6 Nations are disgusted at it & others repent their consenting to it, and that part of them do underhand connive at the Disturbances between the Susquahanna Indians and the Province of Pensilvania, whose raising Forces and building Forts on the Susquahanna River, tho' it hath very plausible Pretences, is at the Bottom bad policy & really intended to secure Lands wch. it would more for the true Interest of the community to give up, at least for the present. I conceive the most effectual method of producing Tranquility to that Province would be, a voluntary & open Surrender of that Deed of Sale, fix with the Indians, in the best manner they can, the Bounds for their Settlements & make them Guaranties to it. I know that this Land was fairly & publickly paid for & that the Indians are unjust & unreasonable to recant & keep the money; but if the Times & good Policy require it, to yield will be more advantageous than to contest, tho' on the side of Justice. Besides Itis private property & the general Welfare suffers by persisting in the Title to it. I proposed herewith to have transmitted your Lordships the acct of the Disbursements of what monies I have hitherto received, wch. is ~10,000 sterg.; but as I have for some time past been obliged to be frequently absent from home upon His Majesty's Service, it hath prevented their being closed & now ready, but they shall go by the next Packet, in the mean time I shall lay them before My Lord Loudoun for his Perusal. I have the honour to be with the highest esteem My Lords your Lordships most obedt. and Most faithful Servant. Endorsed, c Sr. William's Letter to Lords of Trade 10 Sepr. d~. to Lord Halifax 11 Sepr. 1756." VOL. ZIo 47 738 MANUSCRIPTS OF PROPRIETORS OF PENNSYLVANIA'S OBSERVATIONS ON SIR WILLIAM JOHNSON'S LETTER TO THE LORDS OF TRADE RELATING TO INDIAN AFFAIRS. The Proprietors of Pennsylvania have considered the Extract of Sir William Johnson's Letter sent to them by the Right Honourable the Lords Commissioners of Trade & Plantations, and are much concerned to see in it such Jealousy of their Conduct, and that of their Deputy and Agents suggested, without the least cause given for it, as they can challenge Sir William Johnson & all the World to shew any one Instance of their Conduct, that has given Dissatisfaction to the Six Nations, and which those Nations will readily acknowledge in any free Conference, the Proprietors & Province of Pennsylvania having been so much regarded by those Indians, as to be made choice of by them, to settle the differences that had long subsisted between them and the Governments of Virginia & Maryland, at ye Town of Lancaster, in June & July 1744,. which Treaty lyes before the Board, & is printed. They cannot conceive that the last purchase made of Land to the Westward of Sasquehannah, could possibly be the cause of the Hostilities committed by the Indians living on that River, as it did not include any of the Land on which they were settled, or any near them, which will at once appear from the Bounds of that Purchase, laid down on the last Map published by Evans, the course of the North Boundary of that Purchase having been agreed to, that the West Branch of Sasquehannah might be reserved to the Indians, beyond the Bend in that River, and the Land sold is at a vast distance from their principal Settlements, which are at Wyomen, and on the Eastern Branch. This is beyond any possibility of doubt confirm'd by the Conferences publickly held between some of the Chiefs & Agents of the Six Nations, as also ye Delaware King appointed by them all living on Sasquehannah. & Mr Morris, Lieutenant Governor of Pennsylvania, in which they have never made any Complaint, or Objection to, that Sale of Land, nor in the Treaty with Sir William Johnson in February 1756, wherein Mr Hawley gives the Reason why the Delawares have committed Hostilities, does he once mention that Treaty. SIR WILLIAM JOIHNSON 739 This suggestion of Sir William Johnson appears to be the more extraordinary, from his having consented to a Treaty with the Six Nations, proposed by Hendrick the Mohawk Chief in the Spring 1755, on their being greatly dissatisfied with a Purchase intended to be privately made by the People of Connecticut, to sign which they had gone from House to House, & persuaded some Indians to put their names to it, and which Treaty was to be held at Mount Johnson, for the Sale of Land on both Branches of the River Sasquehannah, to the Northern Boundary of Pennsylvania, which Proposal was communicated to the Lieut Governor of New York, who laid it before his Council, and the Consent of the Governor & Council to that intended Purchase, provided it did not run Northward above ye Latitude of 42 Degrees, was sent by Colo Johnson to the Agents of the Proprietors of Pennsylvania, but no further Steps were taken to bring on this Treaty, as Hendrick & several other Indian Chiefs went to the Army, & were soon after kill'd in the Action at Lake George. In answer to another Suggestion of Sir William Johnson's that the raising Forces and building Forts on Sasquehannah by Order " of the Government of Pennsylvania, tho' it hath plausible' Pretences, is at the bottom bad Policy, and really intended to 6 secure Lands, which it would be more for the Interest of the Conmmunity to give up;" They beg leave to say, that this Insinuation is without any sort of foundation, as it never would have been attempted, had not the Chiefs of the Indians living on Sasquehannah, & Delaware Riveri on their own motion, intirely, desired they should be built, at Shamokin, &'near Wyomen, for their own Security as well as of that of the Settlers in Pennsylvania, & promised at the same time to bring their Families and Friends to settle about, & between them, and also urged the Government of Pennsylvania, to declare War against the Ohio Indians. The Proprietors have always taken every Method in their Power, to prevent the Settlement of Land unpurchased of the Indians, and can shew their Orders, Proclamations of their Governors, Reports of Magistrates, who have removed such Settlers in the * That near Wyomen, the Governor, finding it only desired by a few Indians living near that Place has not agreed to build. 740 MASNUSCRPTS OF manner prescribed by the Laws of England against forceable Entrys, who have burnt their Houses, and destroyed their Settlements, as also the acknowledgements of the Indians of their Care in this respect, & they assure their Lordships, there is not the least Intention of granting any of the Lands which are not purchased and of course not any about ye abovementioned Places, which certainly are not purchased —Their Governor has a standing Instruction never to permit any such Lands to be settled, and therefore must make such Grants at his own Peril. They never had any dispute with the Indians, unless with some of the Delawares, whose Ancestors had sold their Land to the First Proprietor of Pennsylvania, and afterwards had Presents made them by the present Proprietors for Confirmations, which they readily Signed, as if they were the real Owners of the Land, but having still been troublesome to some of the Outsettlers on that River, by asserting a Right to the Land, but not committing any outrages, the Proprietors laid the Case before the Six Nations at a Treaty held in Philadelphia in July 1742, which lyes before their Lordships, and is printed, and after they had examined into every Circumstance, they fully approved of the Conduct of the Proprietors, and severely censured those Indians, ordering them to go and live at Wyomen, or Shamokin, under their Eye, and never to meddle in Land Affairs, to which they had no Right; having been conquer'd by the Six Nations. Some of these Delawares went to live on the River Ohio and its Branches, and were kindly used by the Government of Pennsylvania, and maintained for some time before the Defeat of General Braddock, when they were persuaded by the French to assist them, on promise of being enabled to regain their Freedom from the Subjection they had been brought under by the Six Nations. The Proprietors believe, those Indians & some of the Six Nations may not be thoroughly satisfied with the Purchase of the Land on the River Ohio, as they think it a very good hunting Country, and that the Indians would have been better pleased, had the Boundary Westward been the Allegany Hills, as they themselves proposed at the Treaty of Albany in 1754, a Copy of which Mr. Penn presented to the Board. SIR WILLIAM JOHNSON. 741 The Proprietors will ever make it their constant Rule, to act such a part as shall be of greatest use to the Publick, tho9 it it may be prejudicial to their Private Interest, but they are very certain His Majesty's Ministers, and particularly their Lordships, will never suffer any partial considerations to have an effect upon them, to the Prejudice of the Proprietors; they think it at this time very improper to make distant Settlements, tho' the Indians were to give their free Consent, but as they, on the contrary, are not well satisfied with the Sale of those Lands on the Ohio, the Proprietors are willing to wave that part of the Treaty, provided it be agreed, that if ever hereafter the Descendants of those Indians shall incline to sell those Lands, they shall be sold only to them, and they will give directions to their Governor to appoint proper Persons to meet the Chiefs of the Six Nations at Onondago, Sir William Johnson's or any other Place the Indians shall agree upon, to confer freely, and settle this Matter in a manner the most conducive to preserve a good understanding between the English and the Indians, without on the one hand being obliged to give up every thing they ask, which would make Treatys with them of no use, but to subject us to their contempt; & on the other, give them full satisfaction with regard to their hunting Grounds. They will only add, in answer to the last Paragraph, that they hope, private Property will ever be as much regarded, and as unwillingly given up by the Crown as Land in Provinces under His Majesty's immediate Government, and where the Lands are granted by virtue of his Commission. The Proprietors now lay before their Lordships the Conferences held this Summer above mentioned, and are ready, as soon as they can be copied, to lay also Copies of every other Conference that nas been held between their Governors and Agents, & the several Nations of Indians, having nothing so much at heart, as to remove the least Jealousy of their Conduct, and approve themselves worthy of the Station they hold in Pennsylvania. London, Decbr. 11th. 1756. 742 M:ANUSCRIPTS OF EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROMl PROPRIETOR THOMAS PENN ESQR. OF 12T. FEBRUARY 1757 TO MR. RICHARD PETERS PROPRIETARY AGENT. I shall now write what my Time will allow me on the most important Point now under Consideration,.that of the Dissatis" faction of the Indians, and the Method we think proper shoud be " taken to remove all possible cause of it, if Impressions made by "wicked People can be effaced, as I had received your Letter " containing an account of the Complaints of the Delaware "Indians. I informed Lord Halifax what I knew of these affairs; C and desired they might be fully examined into by Sir William "c Johnson at such Place as he shall appoint, and to which the'cprincipal People of the Six Nations and those of the Indians "who pretend any claim or complain of ill Treatment shall agree " to come, and that we will appoint Commissioners to attend that "Treaty, as a more indifferent Place and Person than our' Province or our Governor woud be more satisfactory to the ( Publick and more to our Honour. I desired they would add to "' their Letter a Recommendation to Sir William Johnson to examine " thoroughly into this affair, and make a Report upon it." In the latter Part of the same Letter of the 12th of February the Proprietor says, "The Letter from the Board of Trade to Sir William Johnson "will not be ready till Tuesday, and therefore I think it cannot go' in the same Packet with this, unless it is kept, that Letters " received yesterday by the Ministers may be answered." EXTRACT of a Letter of the 11th March 1757 from Proprietor Thomas Penn Esquire to their agent Mr. Richard Peters. c I.hope my last Letter by the Packet will get Time enough te for: you to prevent your holding a Treaty with Teedyuscung and "the Delaware Indians, and desire you will inform him that I " have desired, as the charge he makes upon us is of a very high "nature, it may be directed by the King's Ministers here to a he examined into before Sir William Johnson. and a Denuuta SIR WILLIAM JOHNSONo 743 4 tion of the Six Nations in an indifferent Place, that the " Examination may be most fairly and equally made, we absolutely "c denying the Truth of the Charge, and insisting on full Reparation "for it, esteeming such a Charge a greater Injury by far than the " Endeavour to deprive us of any Land their Ancestors have sold.. EXTRACT of a Letter of the 12th March 1757 from both Proprietaries Thomas Penn and Richard Penn Esquires to their Agent Mr. Richard Peters. " The Lords Commissioners for Trade and Plantations having " communicated to us an Extract of a Letter from Sir William " Johnson Baronet, relating to Uneasinesses the Indians of the " Six Nations are under on account of the last Indian Purchase at 4Albany; we gave to their Lordships an answer to it in writing. " And in the said Answer having proposed to send Commissioners 4' to any Place Sir William Johnson shall appoint and summons " the Indians to attend at. We thought it proper to appoint you C &c to be our Commissioners. " During the Time this Business was under the Consideration iof the Lords of Trade, a copy of the Treaty at Easton between "'Governor Denny and Teedyuscung, the Delaware King, with " others of the same Nation arrived, in which we observe, notwith4 standing neither the Delawares nor any other nation of Indians 4 ever so much as hinted that they had been induced to commence C" Hostilities against Pennsylvania to revenge any Injustice done " them, Teedyuscung did, after being repeatedly called upon to " give a Reason for such a Conduct, assert for the first Time, that'" the present Proprietors had forged a Deed and made an Alteration "of the Courses agreed upon to take their Lands from them, and "thol he did not alledge, that was the Cause of their Incursions, " yet that it was the Foundation of their Uneasiness. We who " are extremely desirous that the Rectitude of all our Proceedings " with the Indians shoud appear in the most publick Light, and A that no Suspicion of contrary Measures on our Part shoud ever " exist, did instantly acquaint the Lords Commissioners for Trade " and Plantations with this new Pretence, and made it our earnest 744 MANUSCRIPTS OF " Request to them, that they woud give Directions to Sir William " Johnson at the same Time he met the Indians to settle the c" Bounds of the Treaty at Albany, to examine into the Truth of " this Report and inform them of the Result of such Examination." The above is a true Extract from the Propty Letters to me compared with the originals by me. RICHARD PETERS. 18th Augt 1757 GOV. HARDY TO SIR WM. JOHNSON. Fort George, New York 16 May 1757 SIR Having laid your letter of the 21st. of April last before the Council, and in consequence of their opinion conferred with the Earl of Loudain as to the release of the two Indians confined in the goal at Albany, His Lordship was of opinion it was necessary in the present posture of the Publick affairs to indulge the Jenango Indians in their request, & on my communicating his Sentiments to the Council they advised that Vangelder the Father and his Son should both be discharged and tis now a week Since orders were sent for that purpose to the Sherif. This Complyance in the Government will I hope be attended with the good Consequences you apprehend from it: but I am Sorry to find that the Family of this Vangelder Still persist in the Same wicked Practices, as appears by their being present in a riot weh. happened on the 7th Instant in the Manor of Livingston, in which one man was killed and several wounded, one of whom it is Said is Since dead of his wounds. Had this been known here before the orders were Sent to the Sherif, it would probably have prevented their being issued. Mr. Livingston represents that the Rioters have lately purchased a considerable part of His Manor of the Stockbridge Indians, who have undertaken to assist them in Settling the Lands. If this be the case as is very probable from Vangelder & his Sons being principals, I think it is absolutely necessary that you use your endeavours to diswade the Indians of Stockbridge from intermedling in this unhappy affair, and as it must probably SIR WILLIAM JOHNSON. 745 have been them who Solicited the Indians of Jenango to request the discharge of Vangelder and his Son, it appears to me that the Jenango Indians will think it incumbent on them to interpose by preventing (as much as lies in their power) the Stockbridge Indians from concerning themselves in this matter. Sir William Johnson Baronet endorsed. 16 May 1757 Lre from Sir Charles to Sir William Johnson. SIR WM. JOHNSON TO THE BOARD OF TRADE. Fort Johnson June 18. 1757. MY LORDS In the last Letter I had the honour to write your Lordships, I acqainted you, that I had just then finished a Meeting with the Six Nations, wherein I had charged them with their Inactivity in aiding & assisting His Majestys Arms, & had insisted upon their giving me the reasons for their Backwardness & Coolness, and also to know possitively from them what their future Resolutions were -without any Disguise. I then acquainted your Lordships, that the Six Nations told me, they looked upon the Matters I had laid before them, to be of too important Consequence for the Deputation then present to give me a full & detirminate Answer to-that they were speedily to hold a Great Council of all the Nations at Onondaga, where what I had then said should be faithfully reported, fully Deliberated upon and when that Council broke up, I should receive their full & Detirminate Answer. That therefore I defered transmitting to your Lordships what passed at the said Meeting at my House till I had the result of the Meeting at Onondaga, when I would send you both together. Accordingly My Lords I herewith transmit the same to you. I was in Expectation to have been able to have done this much sooner, but the unsettled state of the Six Nations amongst themselves, and the Confusions wch the too successful Arts of the French Emissaries have thrown them into have delayed this Meeting at Onondaga much beyond the time they gave me reason to expect it would take place and break up. 746 iMANUSCRIPTS OF Your Lordships will see by thile Papers herewith, that the Three upper Nations, to wit, the Senecas, Cayouges & Onondagas, have declared themselves in favour of a Neturality. As no Deputies from the Tuscarores or Oniedas came down to this Meeting, I cannot say what their Resolutions will be, it appears probable to me that from their not coming down with those Upper Nations, they do not wholly agree in Sentiments with them. I expect they will come by themselves when these return, & let me know their Resolutions, but whether those will be more favourable to our Interest than what these Three Upper Nations have declared, I will not take upon me to assertain. When I receive their Resolves I shall transmit them to your Lordships. I beg leave on this occasion to put your Lordships in Mind & refer you to those Papers I sent to the Board in Janry. 1756, by Govr. Pownal when he went to England, wherein was laid before your Lordships the declining state of our Indian Interest at the time Gen1. Braddocks Commission put the Management of Indian Affairs into my hands, and I told that Gentleman at Alexandria, I would exert my utmost Influence & ability, but that I doubted whether I should be able to prevail on the Six Nations in general to act with that Ardor in favour of His Majestys Arms weh might probably be expected from them. Our Defeat at the Ohio,-the Obstructions thrown in my way by Genl. Shirleys opposing my Management —The loss of Oswego, and our having reaped no striking advantages since. have been all Additional Drawbacks upon my retrieving & advancing his Majestys Indian Interest. And with respect to our Interest amongst the upper Nations, the Loss of Oswego was a Mortal Wound, as that Post was both a Curb upon the upper Nations to retain them in our Interest & a Security for them against the Enemy should they act in our Favour. I am fully persuaded the Loss of this important Post with the consequential Menaces of the French & their Indians, hath produced the present Neutrality agreed on by the Senecas, Cayouges & Onondagas. And tis probable our destroying the Works at & abandoning the Onieda Carrying Place last Summer may produce a Neutrality from the Oniedas & Tuscarores. SIR WILLIAM JOHNSOs 747 My Lords I am extreamely concerned that the great Expence which this Service hath occasioned should not have produced more favourable Effects. Permit me to assure Your Lordships that I have acted with uprightness of Heart, with all the Oeconomy Diligence & address within the compass of my abilities to retrieve support & extend His Majesty's Indian Interest. I am extreamly sorry my Endeavours have not been crowned with all that Success wch I was unfeignedly ambitious of being instrumental to. I must confess all circumstances considered I do not think the Indians altogether so culpable as some People on this side of the Water seem to do-And I am truly conscious that if I have erred in Judgment, I have not been wanting in an honest & grateful Ardor for His Majestys Service, the honour & success of his Arms. As I have My Lord Loudouns Approbation & Opinion in favour of it, I have told the Six Nations that I shall dispose of His Majestys Bounty & Rewards only to such Indians as will actually go upon Service. This I propose to make a fixt Rule hereafter as far as apparent good Policy will permit. This will probably in some Degree lessen the future Expence. however I must be so ingenuous as to acquaint your Lordships that even under present Circumstances, I cannot promise that the future Expences will fall very considerably short of the past. for as the Upper Nations (as yr Lordships will see by their Speech) solemnly declare that notwithstanding their Neutrality, they are unanimously & firmly resolved to hold fast the Antient Covt Chain of Friendship & remain Allies to His Majesty & Bretheren to his Subjects, utterly to cast off all Notice & Expence about them, would in my Opinion be a piece of Conduct equally dangerous & impolitic in the present Conjuncture. And if My Lord Loudoun or the Commander in Chief should be determined upon such a Measure, I would beg leave rather to decline acting than put it in Execution. If your Lordships should be of opinion, that from the present Face of Indian affairs, the advantages of this Service will not be adequate to the Expence they have & mlay bring upon the Crown, I shall whenever His Majesty may think it proper, with the utmost obedience & the highest Gratitude for the many honours he has 748 MANUSCRIPTS OF graciously bestowed upon me, be ready and willing to resign my Commission as His Sole Agent & Superintendant for the Northern District. The Upper and lower Castles of Mohock Indians will I am persuaded remain firm to our Interest and tho their Intemperate thirst after Rum is a great Impediment to their going upon Service when they can by any means get it, yet almost all their young men are now out & going out to distress the French Settlements in Canada beat up their Quarters & obtain Intelligence of their Numbers & Motions. I have taken a great deal of Pains to bring about a Peace between the Delaware & Shawanese Indians settled on the Susquahanna & the Provinces of New York, New Jersey, Pensilvania, Maryland & Virginia & I hope it is in a fair way of being accomplished in wch. Govr. Denny's candid Behaviour & fair Proposals if continued & carried into effect will greatly contribute. Herewith I send your Lordships a Copy of my Proceedings last April with a Number of Shawaneese, Naticohes & Molickander Indians who came hither & are settled on one of the West Branches of the Susquahanna. Also the original minutes of Mr. Croghan my Deputy & Govr. Dennys Proceedings at a Meeting lately held at Lancaster in Pensilvania. I think it also proper to transmit your Lordships herewith some Original Papers put into My hands by the said Mr. Croghan relative to some former Indian Management of his for the Southern Government, as I apprehend they may tend to open to your Lordships some Original Causes of Recent Events relative to the present War in America. Enclosures:-1. Conference in Nov. 2. Indian Meeting in June. 3. Meeting with Del. & Shawan. 4. Croghan's Lancaster meeting. 5. Croghan's private papers. REMARKS Upon the OBSERYATIONS of the Proprietors of Pennsylvania, on a Paragraph of Sir William Johnson's Letter, To the Right Honourable the Lords of Trade and Plantations, bearing date the 10th September, 1757The whole paragraph of the above Letter which gave Birth to the Observations, is as follows SIR WILLIAM JOHNSON. 749 4 I think I have before now, hinted to your Lordships, my Opinion " that the Hostilities which Pennsylvania, in particular had suffered " from some of the Indians, living on the Susquahanna, did in "some measure arise from the large Purchase, made by that " Government two Years ago at Albany....... I have more reason; every day, from talking with the Indians to be confirmed in this' Suspicion. I am inclined to believe, tho' this Purchase was Publickly " consented to% at Albany some of the Six Nations, are disgusted " at it, and others repent their consenting to it, and that Part of 4 them do underhand connive at the disturbance between the " Sasquahannah Indians and the Province of Pennsylvania; whose " raising Forces, and building forts on the Suquahannah River tho' " it hath very Plausible pretences, is at the bottom Policy, and 4 realy intended to secure Lands, which it would be more for the "true Interest of the Community to give up, at least for the " Present......I conceive the most effectual method of producing 4' Tranquility, to that Province would be a Voluntary, & open C surrender of that deed of Sale, fix with the Indians in the best' manner they can, the Bounds for their Settlements, and make " them Guaranties to it. The Proprietors are Pleased to Introduce their Observations " with a Challenge, to Sir William Johnson, and all the World to " shew any one Instance of their Conduct, that has given dissat" isfaction to the Six Nations, and which they say those Nations "4 will readily acknowledge, in any free Conference"Tho' the real intent of the above Paragraph, from Sir William Johnson's Letter, was and its obvious meaning is, to Assign a Cause to which he suspected the Indian Hostilities in Pennsylvania, were in a great measure owing......Yet upon Sir William Johnson saying, he was inclined to believe &ca. The Proprietors are pleased to sound this unprovoked Challenge, which tho' to answer as well as to have given, is departing from the main argument; yet Sir William Johnson begs leave to say somewhat in answer to itFIRST-He will now presume to Assert, that from many Private Conversations he hath had, with severall of the Chi'fs of the S: Nations, they are not satisfied with the Conduct o 07'cn'pvera 150 MANUSCRIPTS OF merit, of Pennsylvania, in General, nor with the afilresaid Purchase, in Particular. Proofs from SECONDLY-He will adduce some Facts publick, and Facts that 6 et hatis.hfiet upon record, in Support of the above Assertion. been satisfiedt f Pensilvn At the Treaty of Lancaster, in the year 1744, the Six Nations complained to Governor Thomas that the Connoye Indians had not been sattisfied for their Lands. The Governor promised redress. In the year 1749. the Six Nations renewed the afforesaid Complaint, to Governor Hamilton. (N B...It doth not appear, upon Record, "' That the Connoye Indians, are to this day Sattisfied.......) In the year 1750. Connageriwa, a Sachem of the Six Nations, living on the Ohio, came at the head of a Deputation. from thence to Mr. Croghan's House, and told Mr. Peters. he was sent down from Ohio' to enquire about the Purchase, they had heard the Governor had made, on the East side of Susquahannah, the year before from the Onandago Council, and said, they were entitled to part of the Goods, paid for those Lands, as well as the Onandago Council, but they had received no Part-That they were come down, to desire the Governor, to Purchase no more Lands without giving them notice, and desired the Governor might send that Belt of Wampum to the Onandago Council, and let them know what the Ohio Indians had said on the Head.. Gave a large Belt. The Indians, of the Six Nations, who were settled on the Ohio, were so Dissatisfied, with the Albany Purchase, made by the Proprietary Agents, and saw such bad Consequences arising from it, that they left the Ohio, and returned to their own Country. In a Speech of the Six Nations, at a Publick Meeting, with Sir William Johnson on the 3d. July 1755.... They said.... "BROTHER-You desire us to unite, and live together, and 4 draw all our Allies near us, but we shall have no Land left, either, "' for ourselves, or them, for your People, when they buy, a small " Piece of Land of us, by Stealing they make it large. We desire 4 such things may not be done, and that your People may not "be suffered to buy any more of our Land. Some time it's " bought of Two Men, who' are not the proper owners of it. SIR WILLIAM JOHNSON. 751 " The Land which reaches down from Oswego to Schahandowana "4 (Wyoming) we beg may not be settled, by Christians. " The Governer of Pennsylvania bought a whole Track and only " Paid for half, and desire you will let him know, that we will not 4" Part with the other half, but keep it. These things makes us 4' Constantly uneasie in our Minds, and we desire you will take " care that we may keep, our lands for our selves. At a meeting between Governor Denny George Croghan Esqr. Sir William Johnson's Deputy, and sundry Six Nation, & other Indians held at Lancaster, in May 1757, A Copy of the Proceedings of which, lays before the Board of Trade. There is a Speech of the Six Nations bearing date Thursday 19th. May, from the whole Letter, and Spirit of which, it appears that the Six Nations have been, and are very farr from, that Satisfaction of mind, with the Conduct of the Province, of Pennsylvania, which the Proprietors boast of, and sound their Challenge upon. The Proprietors are further pleased to add to their Challenge this Assertion. That the Six Nations will readily Acknowledge the truth of it, in any free Conferrence. As the truth of this Assertion can Depend only upon a Contingent event. Sir Wm. Johnson begs leave to be of a very diffirent opinion, & from a Variety of Circumstances, is well Perswaded the Six Nation's never will be reconciled, to the Conduct of the Proprietors, their Deputys and, Agents, unless the Deed, of the Albany Purchase be Surrendered, & the claims founded thereupon in a great measure, given up. The Proprietors say. They cannot Conceive that the last Purchase made of Land, to the Westward of Susquehannah, could possibly be the Cause of the Hostilities committed by the Indians living on that River &ca. Sir William Johnson gave it as his opinion, that the Hostilities which Pennsylva had suffered, from some of the Indians, living on the Susquahanah, did in some measure arise, from the large Purchase made by the Governor Two years ago. This is the point to be proved, and more than this, it is apprehended will be proved by the following Quotations from Authantick Records, & papers. '7 52 MANUSCRIPTS OF Proofsthatin- Before the year 1742 the Delaware Indians corndian Hostilities in Pellsil- plained that they were defrauded out of some Lands, vania did in some measure c or not Paid for them. arise from Albaly Purch'se " It is well known, that the Purchase made at Albany U"in 1754, gave great uneasiness to the Susquahannah Indians, "& from the time the County Surveyor, began to Survey on Juniatta, and up the Susquahannah. The Delawares, Shawanese & Nanticokes, then settled on the River, began to remove farther "back, some to Tiahogo, some to Ohio." 4 The Ohio Indians, at a meeting with Mr. Wiser (the Pennsyl4vania Interpretor) at Aughwick, after the defeat of Colt. " Washington asked Mr. Wiser how those lands came to be sold. U he said in answer, that the Six Nations had only made over their right of Sale, and taken an earnest Piece, and that when the " Lands came to be settled, that they should receive a Consideration "for them. At the same time John Shecelaney, a Delaware Indian, burned some Houses, that were built on Pealn's Creek; (below Shamokin on the West side) and said there should be "no Plantations made on their Hunting Grounds, and all the "Indians at Shamokin seemed very uneasie, and indeed obliged "the Surveyors to come away & quit Surveying. In the Spring 1756, Governor Morris sent severall Messages, with Belts, and Strings of Wompum, by an Onandaga Indian, to the Five Nations, amongst which is the following just and remarkable Confession. " That he found by woful Experience, that making Purchases " of Lands, was the Cause of much Blood having been shed. he was determined therefore, to buy no more,".... As a Confirmation of Sir William Johnson's said Opinion he reffers himself, to the following extract from Margaret Williams's Deposition, who was a Prisoner amongst the Delaware Indians, sworn before him the 8th. day of December 1756" The said Margarett says, she often heard the Indians say & 6; declare most solemnly they never would leave off killing the " English as long as there was an Englishman living on their "Lands -that they were detirmined to drive them all off their " Lands, naming Minisink almost to the North River East (in the SIR WILLIAM JOHNSON 753 " Provinces of New York & Jersey) also Bethelem & the Lands on " a paralel Line to it West, which the English have cheated them " out of." In further suport to his Opinion, Sir William Johnson refers himself, to the Treaty Governor Denny, held with Tediuscung the Delaware Chief, at Easton last Autumn, and which is before the Board of Trade. Sir William Johnson also refers himself to the Extract from a Speech of the Six Nations to Governor Denny & Mr. Croghan (before mentioned in these Remarks page 5-). in answer to their earnest call upon the Six Nations to assign if they knew, the Cause of the Hostilities & Discontents of the Susquahanah Indians. The Indian proceedings this Summer which past at Easton, between Governor Denny Mr. Croghan and the Sundry Indians therein mentioned, and which Sir William Johnson Transmitts herewith. To the Right Honourble. the Lords of Trade, puts beyond dispute, and Demonstrates the truth of what Sir William only gave as his Opinion, in his Afforesaid Letter to the Lords of Trade. and he apprehends it doth very fully, Evidence, the Conclusions of belief, which he then drew from that opinion. Lastly Sir William Johnson refers himself to the following Extract, from the Examination of John Morris of Lancaster County, who was taken by, & made his escape from the Delaware Indians, sworn before him the 27th August, 1757" The Examinant says he often heard the Delawares say, that " the reason of their Quarreling with & killing the English in that "part of the Country, was on account of their Lands which the " People of Pensilvania Government cheated them out of, and " drove them from their Settlement at Shamokin by crouding " upon them, and by that means spoiled their Hunting, and that the People of Minisink used to make the Indians always Drunk 4 whenever they traded with them, and then cheated them out of " their Furrs & Skins, also wronged them with regard to their -' Lands. this he has heard from many of the chief & oldest men "among them both in the English & the Delaware Language wh. " he sufficiently understands." VOL. II. 48 '754 MANUSCRIPTS OF The Proprietors say, that as the Six Nations are not well Sattisfied, with the Sale of those Lands, on the Ohio, they are willing to wave that part of the Treaty Provided &ca, As Sir William Johnson has never seen the Deed of Sale for the Albany Purchase, he cannot to his own knowledge tell how far'the Purchase Extends. but he hath, in his Possession, a Report of severall Indian Transactions, relative to the Government of'Pennsylvania) signed by George Croghan Esq. who was for severall years employed as an Indian Agent by that iGovernment, in which Report Mr. Croghan says-as follows"'1: never iunderstood from any of the Six Nations, that they ") His MAJESTY taking the said Report into Consideration was pleased with the advice of His Privy Council to approve of what was therein proposed, and accordingly to give the necessary directions to the Lords Commissioners for Trade and Plantations for carrying the same into execution-And His Majesty is hereby pleased to order that the Right Honbie the Earl of Dartmouth, one of His Majesty's Principal Secretaries of State, do receive His Majesty' s Pleasure for directing His Majesty's Superintendant for Indian affairs to apprize the Chiefs of the Six Nations & their Confederates of His Majesty's Intention to form a Settlement upon the Lands purchased of them by His Majesty in 1768. Signed STEPHt: COTTRELL. 1002 MANUSCRIPTS OF EXTRACT OF THE MINUTES OF A CONGRESS WITII THE CHIEFS OF THE SIX NATIONS HELD AT JOHNSON HALL APRIL THE 17TH. 1773. But, Brother, we must observe to you, and we request it may be seriously considered that the misconduct of these Nations (that is to say, those to the South West) is much owing to the English themselves, for these nations were never hearty, and some of them, not even pretended friends to the English. Yet the English Traders, and also the French have of late years rambled in great numbers all over their Country for the sake of Gain, and are but too often guilty of frauds which inflame their Resentment. In the French time, their Traders rambled in that manner: they were often plundered, and killed; but the French did not resent it, knowing it was their own faults, —and we must again remark, as we have often done lately, that there is no certain way of preventing this, but by having fixed Posts, and proper Regulations for the Traders. Whilst these subsisted there were seldom any Outrages, the Indians were better pleased, & the Traders had Profit enough. We heartily wish you would consider these things, as matters of great Importance to the general Peace. A Belt of 7 Rows. BROTIER. When we first saw the White People, and fastened the Ship to the great Tree, the Band of our Union, was a fair Trade: when we strenghtened our Alliance with the English, and fastened the Ship with an Iron Chain, which was afterwards made of Silver, Trade was our mutual object, and in most subsequent Treaties, it was provided that Trade should be plentiful, and that we should not be cheated. the places of Trade were few, and the Traders well known. the like Promise was made us, whenever Canada should be reduced.-for a time it went on pretty well, but of late, the Traders go about where they please, and sell at the most extravagant Rates, besides following us to our Hunting Grounds to take advantage of our People, by means of the Liquor they bring with them. Of this, all the Indians complain; for as they live by Hunting, it becomes a more heavy Grievance to them, than it would do to otheis. We have often complained of this, but we SIR WILLIAM JOHN0SO. 1003 find no Redress, and therefore if these repeated Impositions obstruct our good Intentions, the fault is not ours. Brother, we beg you will consider our case, so as that the Governors concerned may do what has been promised; we must likewise sollicit the favor of the General, that both he, and you may lay our Hardships before the King who I trust will relieve us.-In this Hope we now on behalf of all our Confederacy, renew, strenghten, and brighten the Covenant Chain,-and the Senecas particularly assure you that they, and all their Dependants, do. now take hold of it1 and brighten the same, firmly resolving to contribute all their Endeavors, in conjunction with the rest of the Confederacy, to keep it bright, hoping that you will be assisting therein, for our mutual Interest, and the Preservation of Peace. A large white Covenant Chain Belt with 12 Squares, 11 Rows. To which Sir William answeredBROTHERS. I am well acquainted with the nature, and Terms of your first Treaties with the English, and that Trade was always considered as an article of much Importance; neither can I find that it was ever withheld from you. After the Reduction of Canada it was greatly enlarged by the addition of many new Traders, whereby Goods were plenty, and cheap. among such a number, there are doubtless some that will deceive you, especially so long as you continue your Passion for that Liquor which is the Source of so many Evils. There is however no doubt, that when the Colonies are agreed as to the nature of the Regulations, provision will be made against the Abuses you complain of-and in the mean time I recommend it to you to endeavor at reforming yourselves by a more moderate use of that Liquor, in which case the Traders will bring less into your Country, and you will be more on your guard against their frauds, whilst I use my endeavors, as I have hitherto done to procure you the Salutary Establishments you require-Your case hasbeen already fully laid before the Governors, and I can assure you that the Governor of this Province, and those of the other Colonies that are concerned in the Indian Trade, are heartily disposed to promote the Regulations.-the General who commands 1004 MANUSCRIPTS OF the Armyis also much your friend, and as he is shortly to go over the Great Lakehe will I persuade myself recommend these points to the Great King, who is heartily disposed to protect, and favor all faithfull Indians. I thank you for your renewing and brightening the ancient Chain of Friendship, and particularly, in that the Senecas are so wise as to take a firm Hold of it. Whilst they value themselves & their confederates, I hope they will retain it firmly; and I expect, that as the Western Door, they will hereafter take care that they admit nothing among them that may give offence to those in the middle, or at the East end of the Chain) but hearken to good advice, and follow it. To promote all this, I do now, on behalf of the Great King, and his subjects, renew, strengthen and brighten this'Chain, assuring you that it shall be held fast, and kept bright, on the part of the English, and that it shall last for ever, if you do your parts to preserve it. I hope that you have too much sense of its value to expose it to any danger, and that you will Treasure up my advice, as essential to your own Happiness. A large Covenant Chain Belt 13 Rows black, with white Squares. A true Copy from the Records Examined by Mr Rd1 SHUCKBURGH Secry. for Ind. Affairs. SPEECH OF DECHARIHOGA CHIEF OF THE CONAJOHARES TO SIR WILLIAM JOHNSON, ON MONDAY THE 11.H JULY 1774 A FEW HOURS BEFORE SIR WMS DECEASE & IN THE PRESENCE OF THE SIX NATIONS. BROTHER It is with Pain I am under the necessity of Complaining again against that old Rogue, the old Disturber of our village, George Klock. You are long acquainted with his Artifices, and evil Conduct, and you have often assured us you had applied for Redress; but whatever is the Reason, we never yet Obtained any Satisfaction, and we begin to be doubtful whetherthe English will affordit to us, for which reason we are driven to the necessity of mentioning our Grievances to you in the Presence of the whole X 1 _ ^( ^.n ad^^ \J1 t>e /,. /3.+ t,?.~ /26 1j.? ".: r. —.-. JM * Jei,,,.,-~ — e, e o J'. on.,,~.''" - - ~2~.. f:~J.,./f l/- ^ ^~~ I ^ ^ ^ ^ t - j~y ^.^i/ L~0 X' ts, & v X 3vz, / B..... ~ -!, -^; 19 - fi e n - *; s ^ ^ uo. fa. ~s /. |.:'"''Id.,0.. v'~:k~f~'~ (Ju..', __!!'"')..~: atr Illials-~~~~~~~ npnrosef~~~~i:!\s..... - - ~ ~.!';;'''.~ q.~ _t~_~.~~ 4ct~7~~?.~r.~ ~,~,07 ~ ~ SIR WILLIAM JOHNSON. 1005 Confederacy, that they who know our Rank, may espouse our Cause, as it is their Duty to do, and convince the English that we have ffriends, and deserve Attention. Brother-I will not take up your time with telling you, & your Brothers here present, the many Artifices he has made use of to Cheat us of our Lands, and to create Divisions among ourselves. I shall only mention his last Actions. This evil Spiritlast Winter by his Cunning, seduced one of our foolish young ffellows to Steal away with him to England, where he exposed him for a shew, and Cheated him out of his Money. Klock has since Stolen home like a Rogue as he went out, and when we had notice of it, and applied to him to sign the Release, (which all the rest did) of the Lands wCh he Stole, he appointed a time for it, but when we came to his House, and brought a Justice of Peace to be present, he refused Admittance to him & us, and has since ran away, and propagated a Story that some of us threatened his Life. It is true, Brother, that the man he Cheated went and took some of his own Money, and probably, some of our young ffellows after his own evil Example, might have used angry Threats to induce him to sign the Release, but we disavow it, as we do all his falsehoods, and are ready to wait for Justice. It has been often promisedbut never afforded us. We beg that the great Men who manage the White People, may obtain Justice for us, and cause him to sign the Deed, and let us alone,-And if we thought this would still be done, we would willingly wait awhile patiently, otherwise, we cannot answer for the Consequences To which Sir William Johnson answd. That they need not have mentioned this Matter to their Confederacy, who had no business with it,-that he would again lay the Matter before Government, and use all his endeavors for their satisfaction,-that they Shoud patiently wait without attempting any act of Violence, which wou'd be highly Resented, and that he was Authorised to tell them that Klock's Conduct was disagreeable to the King. When Sir William's immediate Deputy Col. Guy Johnson reasumed the affairs of the Congress after the Interment of Sr. Wm the Conajohares reminded him of their Speech concerning 1006 MANVSCRIPTS OF Klock, and were answered with Assurances that the same Should be laid before Government. Taken from the Records G JOHNSON Super Intendt of Indn. Affairs. - -—. —,m — ---- COL GUY JOHNSON TO LT GOV. COLDEN. [From N. Y Col. MSS.] Guy Park Augt 2d. 1774 SIR, Since I had the honor of Writing to you last, I have received his Excelley Gen' Gages Orders Appointing me to the Superintendency of Indian affairs till his Majestys pleasure is known, concerning which he has Likewise wrote to the SecretY of State as Sir Wm Johnson had done agreable to desire of the Indians sometime before his death;Having been much indisposed for some days past it was not sooner in my power to write to you on a matter complained of by the Indians at the late Congress respecting the conduct of their old Antagonist Geo: Klock; It would take up too much of your time to enter at present into the relation of his repeated Offences, these were highly aggravated by the circumstance of his seducing one of their People to accompany him last Winter to England and Exhibiting him as a Show, but Lord Dartmouth having sent in quest of Klock, he returned hastily to America, & defrauded the Indian of his Money on the Passage, of this the Indian complained & went (with some others) to his House where they took part of that Cash away, and insisted on his signing a Release for part of the Lands of their Village included in the Patent to Van HIorne and Livingston which all the other Proprietors had long since done,-He at length promised to comply & appointed a time, but when their Chiefs attended for that purpose with a Justice of the Peace, they were refused admittance, & Shortly after he went to Albany from whence he transmitted an Affidavit of his Danger with a View to have the Conajoharee Indians Indicted by the Grand jury,'tho Sir W11 Johnson had given them a strict Caution against offering him any Insult, promising that the Affair should SIR WILLIAM JOHNSON. 1007 be laid before Government as it had been before, tho' without effect, he having refused to Execute the Release, Klock has since returned to his House where he keeps close, so that the Indians have nothing to expect from his Justice, & thro' repeated disappointments are in doubt of relief from Government, this has induced some of their People to throw out threats, which I have hitherto prevented them from putting into execution, but the Neighbours are much alarmed & have lately proposed to Petition your Honor, requesting that he may be compelled to satisfy the Indians, or that some step be taken for freeing the Neighborhood from the apprehensions occasioned by his quarrel.The Copy of the Speech made by the Conajoharees which I now enclose, will explain their sentiments, but I am concerned least some accident should happen as I can't see how they can be relieved, & he now gives out that he has Mortgaged, or sold the Lands in dispute. I could however wish I was enabled to promise them some relief, whilst I am. endeavoring to prevent mischief, as their public'complaint to the rest has made it a matter of serious concern I had the pleasure to conclude the Treaty (which was interrupted by the death of your Worthy friend Sir Willm Johnson) in a satisfactory manner, and Deputies are sent from each of the Nations to accomodate the Breach to the Southward, but those Tribes who took up Arms there, are using all their influence to form a strong Association there, which it shall be my utmost endeavors to prevent by seperating their Interests. I shall be glad to be honored with a Line on the subject of this Letter, and I beg Leave to assure you of the perfect Esteem with which I am Sir, Your most Obedient and Sir Jno Johnson offers most Humble Servt his best respects. G JOHNSON The Honble Lt Governor Colden. 1008 MANUSCRIPTS OF MISSING PAPERS.'* On the I6th April, 1801, seven Bundles of Sir WM. JOHNSON'S papers were deposited in the Secretary's office, with the list of the contents of each Bundle. What remain of these MSS. are now published, except the Journals of Indian proceedings, some powers of attorney and a few other legal papers. In comparing what has been preserved with the original list, on file, the following appear to be missing: Letter from the Board of Trade to Sir Wm. Johnson,............ 2 Dec. 1755 Examination of Margaret Williams,........................... 8 Dec. 1756 Letter from Sec'y Pownall to Sir Wm. Johnson,................ 22 Dec. 1756 " Board of Trade to Sir Wm Johnson, (2 Copies,).... 10 March 1757 Examination of John Morris,............................ 27 Aug. 1757 Letter from Capt. Wraxal to Sir Wm. Johnson,................ 3 May 1759 " Comy. Genl. Leake to Sir Wm. Johnson,....... 7 Aug. 1759 " Col. Eyre to Sir Wm. Johnson,..................... 14 Aug. 1759 " Warren Johnson,...................5.......... 15 Oct. 1759': Mrs. Cosby to Sir Wm. Johnson,................ 7 Feb. 1760 c Sir Wm. Johnson to Lord Hillsborough,........... 15 Feb. 1767 Genl. Gage to Sir Wm. Johnson,.,.......6...... 5 Apr. 1767 " Capt. Maturin to "................. 13 Apr. 1767' Genl. Gage to................. 17 Apr. 1767 {" " to "................. 4 May 1767 c ~" to'............t... 11! May 1767 Ld Hillsborough to "............. 13 May 1767 cc Genl. Gage to c.................. 1 June 1767 c6 Capt. Maturin to................... 3 June 1767 " Genl. Gage to,c................. 28 June 1767 "e - to ".................. 12 July 1767 x{ CC to ".................. 20 July 1767 CC cc to ".................... 7 Sept. 1767 c", t to c ~................. 14 Sept. 1767 " Sir Wm. Johnson to Genl. Gage,........... 3 Oct. 1767 " Genl. Gage to Sir Wm. Johnson,.................. 4 Oct. 1767 Cc Genl. Gage to Sir Wm. Johnson, (2 Copies.)...... 9 Nov. 1767 " Lord Hillsborough to "c............ 23 Jany. 1768 " cc to "c.................... 12 Mch. 1768' James Jeffries, Esq. to................... 3 May 1768 " Lord Hillsborough to "............ 13 Aug. 1768 "( Sir Wm. Johnson to James Jeffries, Esq............ 18 Nov. 1768 " Lord Hillsborough to Sir Wm. Johnson,......... 12 Dec. 1768' St CC........... 4 Jany. 1769 " Lt. Gov. Colden to'.......... 10 Jany. 1769 " Sir Wm. Johnson to Lt. Gov. Colden,............ 26 Feb. 1769 C Lord Hillsborough to Sir Wm. Johnson,... 4...... 24 Mch. 1769 Sir Wm. Johnson to Lord Hillsborough,........... 17 May 1769 Sec'y Pownall to Sir Wm. Johnson................ 26 June 1769 " Lord Hillsborough to cc................ 5 Aug. 1769 " Sec'y Pownall to ct................ 6 Sept. 1769'C Lt. Gov. Colden to c................ 23 Sept. 1769 Lt. Gov. Colden to c"............... N5 Nov. 1769 SIR WILLIAM JOHNSON. 1009 Proposals by Thos. Hutchins for publishing a Map of the Interior of N. America. Letter from Lord Hillsborough to Sir Win. Johnson,............ 15 Nov. 1769 CC, to "............ 17 Jany. 1770 K,,( to...*......... 18 Jany. 1770. Lt. Gov. Colden to ~............ 22 Apr. 1770,, cc to "............ 28 Sept. 1770 c Lord Ilillsborough to " (2 copies)... 3 Oct. 1770, {c,( to "............ 15 Nov. 1770 f' e to............ 9 Dec. 1770( Speech of Oneida In iians to Lord Dtmmore,..................... 31 Dec. 1770 Letter from Lord Hil Isborough to Sir Wm. Johnson............ 4 May 1771 c~ cc to............ 4 Dec. 1771T As the files of the Colonial MSS. in the State Department are now in progress of arrangement in order to be bound, and catalogued, persons happening to have any of the ab )ve papers are respectfully requested to return them, addressed, under cover, to the Secretary of State, Albany, N. Y. VOL. II. 64 .... *. T:. *: A ~ 1; L-.- -- -- ~i CIM / 1 PTlT RIE' -'i TIfkPhE T'TE ^ I Erg rs fc;jt y G!|1 ~zi -i A TREATISE on the application of STEAM, WHEIRE1BY IS CLEARLY' SHEiWN FROM ACTUAL EXPERIMENTS, THAT STEAM MAY BE APPLIED TO PROPEL BOATS OR VESSELS OF ANY BURTHIEN AGAINST RAPID CURRENTS VITH GREAT VELOCITY. The same Principles are also introduced with effect, by a Machine of a simple and cheap Construction, for the Purpose of raising Water sufficient for the working of GRIST MILLS', S. W MILLS, c. AND for WATERING MEADOWS and othr PtParosES Os AGRIUnLTURE., By JAMES RUMSEY, of Berkely County, Virginia _ PHILADELPHIA, PRINT ED BY JOSEPH JAMES: CHESENIUT STRBEET M,i)CC,LXXXVIiL AD VERTI SESMET. THE folowinlg pages'are taken from a pamphlet published in Virginia, to prove theauthor's prior right of applying Steam, to propel boats &c. as well as to establish the principles on which he has done it, a few copies were then thought sufficient for thatpurpose,'but as Mr. Fitch intends to answer the pamphlet, it is therefore necessary to republish as much of it as respects Mr. Fitch, which is done with no other variation, from the original,than to correct a few of the omissions and mistakes that were introduced into the first publication, from the hurry in which it was done, (as the author at that time could not attend the press) and was circulated with an Apology annexed to the postcript, for the imperfection of the impression; of these Corrections, perhaps, Mr. Fitch may take some notice, if he should, such part of the old pamphlet shall be reprinted (verbatim) to convince the Public that the subject has not been taried; but a little better explained. The sophistry in Mr. Fitch's reply (should it contain what he informs me it does) is evidently Calculated to make impressions unfavorable of me, on the Public Mind, and to wound the reputation of several respectable characters, I musttherefore beg the Public's indulgence, to suspend their opinion for a few weeks, when I shall have it in my power to lay before them such an additional statement of facts, supported by such respectable testimony, as will incontestibly prove the unjustifiable Steps Mr. Fitch has taken, to deprive the author of his discoveries, and to injure the reputation of sundry gentlemen. No. 19 is added to this publication, it is part of a letter wrote by the Editor to his Excellency General Vashington, dated the tenth of March 1785 which will shew that the Editor had fixed on a method of applying steam to propel a boat, before Mr. Fitch knew (from his own account of the matter) that steam had ever been made use of for any purpose whatever; how then is it possible he should have the prior right to this discovery? if it is asked who made the most promising experiment? it would be found that my experiments two years since exceed the best he has ever made; must I then be deprived of my discoveries which are substantial, because I endeavoured to keep them secret until perfected? justice will never suffer it. I therefore with the greatest confidence look up to my countrymen for their support, according to the Merits of my Cause, and have the honor of subscribing myself their most devoted humble servant JAMES RUMSEY. Philadelphia, May 7, 1783, A SHORT TREATISE, ox STEAM, &c. To the PUBLIC. THOSE who have had the good fortune to discover a new machine, or to make any material improvements on such as have been already discovered, must lay their account to encounter innumerable difficulties; they must arm themselves with patience to abide disappointments; to correct a thousand imperfections (which the trying hand of experience alone can point out) to endure the smarting shafts of wit, and, what is perhaps more intolerable than all the rest put together (on the least failure of any experiments) to bear up against the heavy abuse and bitter scoffs of ill-natured ignorance. These never fail to represent the undertaker as an impostor, and his motives most knavish: Happy for him if he escape with so gentle an appellative as that of a madman. This is the fate of the unlucky projector, even in the cities of Europe, where every material is at his command, and every artificer at his service. A candid public will then consider my situation, thrown by hard fate beyond the mountains, and deprived of every advantage which, that grand mover, money, produces, they will easily perceive how my difficulties have been multiplied, which is the only reason of my not exhibiting my long promised BOAT before this; and which I hope will be a sufficient apology. Even now, these difficulties render my machinery very incomplete; but 1014 EARLY ST'EA_ Mr Fitch's endeavouring to procure patents for his boat, by uncandidly representing to the different Assemblies, that my boat had nothing to do with Steam, although he had been informed that I was before him, both in the idea and application of Steam, and he had actually procured an exclusive right from two respectable Assembles, who had granted me the same in the year 1784, before I was aware what he was about, such treatment obliged me, circumstanced as I was, to make an experiment, in order to secure my own discoveryby shewing my principles, as Mr. Fitch's conduct gave me reason to fear that he would adopt my plan, as soon as he found his abortive. And my machine, with all its misfortunes upon its head, is abundantly sufficient to prove my position; which was, " that a boat might be so constructed, as to be propelled, through the water at the rate of ten miles in an hour, by the force of steam; and that the machinery employed for that purpose, might be so simple & cheap, as to reduce the price of freight at least, one half in Common navigation; likewise, that it might be forced, by the same machinery, with considerable velocity, against the constant stream of long and rapid rivers." Such a machine I promised to prepare, and such a boat to exhibit; this I have now so far performed, in the presence of so many witnesses, and to the satisfaction of so many disinterested gentlemen, as to convince the unprejudiced, and deprive even the sceptic of his doubt. If the reader will please to turn to the annexed certificates, No. 1, 2, 3, he will be convinced that on Monday, the 3d day of December last, my boat was propelled with near half her burthen on board, against the current of Potomack river, at the rate of three miles in an hour, notwithstanding the bad order the machinery was then in; and by the certificates No. 4 and 5) on the Eleventh of the same month, by what little repairs I could give it, in a country where conveniences were not to be had, her progress against the same stream was encreased to four miles in an hour, with more than half her burthen on board. What addition may not be expected, if I am enabled, by the generosity of the different Assemblies to perfect my plan' In the month of September, 1784, I exhibited the model of a NAVIGATIOW'o 1015 boat before his Excellency Cenetfi Washington, at Bath, in Berkeley County, calculated for stemming the currents of rapid rivers only, constructed on principles very different from my present one. Satisfied with the experiment of her making way against a rapid stream, by the force of the same stream, the General was pleased to give me a most ample certificate of her efficiency. And though the great utility of such a boat will appear, if ever a fair trial should be given it; and at the time of that exhibition it was fully my intention to complete this boat, yet, in the course of that fall and winter, I made such progress in the improvement of some steam engines, which I had long conceived would become of the greatest consequence in navigation, that I postponed it till experiments should determine whether the steam engines could be reduced to such Simplicity and Cheapness, as to make them of public benefit, not being certain of this, though perfectly convinced of the power, was my only reason for not mentioning this scheme also to the General, at that exhibition; and I flattered myself this invention, if it answered my expectation, (the truth whereof experiments have now established) would render my labours more extensively useful, by being equally applicable to small boats or vessels of the largest size, to shallow and rapidlrivers or the deepest and roughest seas, (indeed, in large vessels, compared with the value of freight, the Expence of the machinery proportionably decreases) I applied myself with unremitted attention to perfect my Steam Engines, and made such progress in that fall and the ensuing spring, that my experiments assured me the perfection of such a machine was within my reach. I therefore wrote to General Washington, the 10th of March, 1785 (No. 19) that I intended applying both powers to a boat built after the model of the one he saw at Bath; but as I was under many disadvantages, arising from my remote situation, and could gain truth only by successive experiments, incredible delays were produced; and though my distresses were greatly increased thereby, I bore the pelting of ignorance and ill-nature with all resignation, until I was informed some dark assassins had endeavoured to wound the reputation of his excellency, and the other gentlemen who saw my exhibition at Bath:, for giving me a certificate. The reflections 1016 EARLY STEAM upon these worthy gentlemen gave me inexpressible uneasiness, and I should certainly have quitted my steam engines, though in great forwardness, and have produced the boat for which I obtained the certificate for their justification and my own, although I hadactually made several experiments on a boat with steam, but Mr Fitch came out at this minute with his steamboat, asserting, that " he was the first inventor of steam, and that 1 had gotten what small knowledge I had from him, but that I had not the essentials." (vide No. 18.) There was no time to lose, for had I delayed a moment, all my time which was several years with the closest attention, all my expences, which had been very great, to the most of all I had, would have been irrecoverably lost; besides had I exhibited my first boat, it would have been construed into an acknowledgment of Mr. Fitch's assertion, by producing a boat with which steam had nothing to do. These considerations compelled me to pursue the perfecting my Steam Engines with encreased ardor, and happy am I to inform the public, they are now so far completed, as to manifest their valuable purposes for the navigations before-mentioned, applicable to vessels of all dimensions, equal to forcing boats by the assistance of poles,, worked by the same machine, against any rapid the same boats On with safety come down; and for raising water, for grist or saw mills, watering meadows, or purposes of agriculture, cheaper than races can be dug of any considerable distance, or dams made, No. 9 whilst Mr. Fitch was praying the different Assemblies for four years longer to perfect his machine. The difference there is in weight, machinery and expences, between his Steam Engine and mine is enormous (to be satisfied in this particular, the reader will be pleased to turn to the annexed papers, No. 6 & 7. Lest it should be suggested that I have borrowed my principles from Mr. Fitch (thoughI believe the factto be exactly the reverse) I have been at the pains to prove incontestibly, that my idea of a boat to be worked by Steam was a considerable timebefore his, and that it had been mentioned at Kentucky (from whence, I am told, he brought his) by a gentleman to whom I communicated it, previous to his departure to that country. For the former, the reader will be pleased to refer to the annexed affidavits No. 8, 10,.;'2, NAVIGATION. 1017 and to a paragraph from his excellency General Washington's letter, in answer to mine, of the tenth of March, 1785, No 13. and to Governor Johnson's letter, No. 14, for the latter (that is my intentions being mentioned at Kentucky) to Capt. Michael Bedinger's affidavit, No. 15. I have been unavoidably led to mention Mr. Fitch for my own justification, and to prove my prior right to the application of steam for propelling boats, and I should have said no more, but let experience determine whose principles are soundest, had not Mr. Fitch, equally void of decency and truth, asserted "I got what small knowledge I have of steam boats from him." No. 18. By the respectable testimony of his excellency General Washington, No. 13; by Governor Johnson, No. 14, and by certificates and affidavits from many other gentlemen, hereunto annexed, I prove my idea was nearly matured, before steam had ever entered his imagination, by his own confession to Governor Johnson No 14. Nor was my priority unknown to Mr. Fitch, for General Washington informed him, " though he thought himself not at liberty to disclose my principles, yet he would assure him his thought was not original, and that I had mentioned the application of steam to him before." (No. 14) and therefore he declined giving Mr. Fitch an introductory letter to the Assembly of Virginia. What dependance can the public put in the promises of a man, who has knowingly and unprovokedly (for I never saw Mr. Fitch) treated an individual so unworthily. Now I can, with truth assure the public, that Mr. Fitch's boat so loaded with machinery, complexity and expense, (granting his machine all the properties he ascribed to it in his publication) can never be useful; as his machine, by his own publications, allowing for frictions and the necessary slipping of his paddles through the water, will not propel his boat, at the rate of more than three miles in an hour, where no current opposes. If Mr. Fitch did not get his first idea of a steamboat from what Capt. Bedinger said respecting mine, at Kentucky (which circumstances leave little room to doubt) and thought himself justified in making an application of it to his own advantage, as it was not delivered to him in confidence, yet surely nothing'can be said i. h1s defence, for endeavouring to rob the first inventor of his right, a,:i, Uoy 101.8 EARLY STEAM changing1 persons with him, attempting thereby to transfer the odium of plagiarism from himself to the real proprietor. EXPLANATION OF THE STEAM-BOAT. The following explanation will give a general idea of the principles by which steam acts on my boat; accurate calculations of the particular powers, seem not necessary here to be given. IN the bottom of the boat, on the Kelson, there is a trunk, the after end of which is open, and terminates at the stern post; the other end is closed, and the whole trunk, according to its dimensions, occupies about three fourth parts of the length of the boat. On the closed end of the trunk stands a cylinder two and a half feet long, from this cylinder, there is a communication by a tube to the river or water under the boat, on the top of this tube and within the cylinder there is a valve to admit the water from the river into the cylinder, and it likewise prevents it from returning again the same way. There is another communication which lets water pass freely from the cylinder to the trunk, through which it is discharged by the stern; ox the top of this cylinder there stands another of the same length, which is fixed to the under one by screws; in each of these cylinders there is a piston which moves up and down with very little friction; these pistons are connected together by a smooth bolt, passing through the bottom of the upper cylinder; the lower cylinder acts as a pump, which draws water from the river through the tube and valve, before described. The upper cylinder acts as a steamengine; and receives its steam from a boiler under its piston, which is then carried up to the top of the cylinder by the steam (at the same time, the piston of the lower cylinder is brought up to its top, from its connection with the upper piston, by the aforesaid bolt,) they then shut the communication from the boiler, and open another to discharge the steam for condensation; by this means the atmosphere acts upon the piston of the upper 1. Qu. Charging? NAVIGATION. 1019 cylinder, and its force is conveyed to the piston in the lower cylinder, by the aforesaid connecting bolt, which forces the water, then in the lower cylinder, through the trunk, with considerable velocity; the re-action of which, on the other end of the trunk, is the power that propels the boat forward. To prove the use of the TRUNK. It is well known that a heavy body falling near the earth will pass through a space of about fifteen feet in the first second of time; if the same body was acted upon in a horizontal direction, by an impulse equal to its weight, it would move in that direction the same distance in an equal time; it follows, then, that the water in the trunk, will have the effect proportionable to its weight, of retarding the water from being discharged from the cylinder in too short a time. Near the cylinder, on the top of the trunk, there is a valve to admit air, which follows the water thatis then in motion, and gives time for the water to rise gradually into the trunk through valves, at its bottom, for that purpose; this water has but little motion with respect to the boat and is therefore capable of resisting the next stroke of the engine. Thus I have laid the principles of my boat before the public, and can assure them, by the wonderful force of steam,'issuing in incredible quantities, from an entirely new constructed boiler, no doubt remains but all the advantages which I before mentioned, both with respect to navigation and the raising of water will be produced, The one I have effectually proved by a loaded boat being propelled against a stream, with the velocity of four miles an hour, in the presence and to the great satisfaction of numerous spectators, and the other by models now ready to be produced, which admit not of contradiction. If the public think these inventions, which must be productive of the greatest usefulness, worthy their patronage, I cannot fear but an exclusive right will be granted me, by the different Assemblies of the United States, for a given number of years, which they may think right, for the erecting of these machines of my own invention, to compensate me for the trouble, for the time, for the expence and for the fatigue which they have cost me. 1020 EARLY STEAM If a committee of experimental philosophers should be appointed in each state, to examine me, it would give me infinite pleasure to attend, and convince them of the practicability of all I have proposed of the simplicity of my machines & of the smallness of their expense. I am, with the greatest respect, the Public's most devoted, and obedient humble servant, JAMES RUMSEY. Berkeley County, Virginia, January 1, 1788. PROOFS, &c. Berkeley County, ss. WE the subscribers, Justices of the" Peace for the county aforesaid, do certify, that the annexed affidavits, certificates and extracts of letters have been examined by us, and are true copies from the originals. JOHN KEA.SLEY, CATO MOORE. December 28, 1787. Virginia, Berkeley County, ss. I, MOSES HUNTER, Clerk of the said County, do hereby certify, that John Kearsley and Cato Moore, Gentlemen, who have subscribed the above certificate, were at that time, and still are Justices of the Peace, for said county, and that all due faith and credit is and ought to be given to all probates by them so signed, as well in Justice Courts as thereout. In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand, and affixed the seal of the said county, this 29th. day of December, 1787. OSES HUNTER. CERTIFICATES, &c. Berkeley County, Virginia, ss. (Ao. 1.) ON Monday, December 3, 1787, I was requested to see an. experiment on Potowmack river, made by Mr. JAMES RUMSEYS NAVIGATION. 1021 Steam Boat, and had no small pleasure to see her get on her way, with near half her burthen on board, and move against the current at the rate of three miles per hour, by the force of steam, without any external application whatever. I am well informed, and verily believe, that the machine at present is very imperfect and by no means capable of performing what it would do if completed: I have not the least doubt but it may be brought into common and beneficial use, and be of advantage to all navigations, as the machine is simple light and cheap, and will be exceedingly durable, and does not occupy a space in the boat of more than four feet by two and a half. HORATIO GATES Late Major General in the Continental Army. Berkeley County, Virginia, ss. (Jo. 2.) ON Monday, December 3, 1787, I was requested to see an experiment on Potowmack river, made by Mr. JAMES RUMSEY'S Steam Boat, and I had no small pleasure to see her get under weigh with near half her burthen on board, and move against the current at the rate of three miles per hour, by the force of steam without any external application whatever: I am well informed, and do verily believe, that the machine at present is very imperfect and by no means capable of performing what it would do if completed: I have not the least doubt but it may be brought into common and beneficial use, and be of great advantage to all navigations, as the machine is simple, light and cheap, and will be exceeding durable, and does not occupy a space in the boat of more than four feet by two & a half. ROBERT STUBBS Teacher of the Academy in Shepherds-Town. Berkeley County, Virginia, ss. The Rev. Robert Stubbs, Gent. Teacher of the Academy at Shepherds-Town, acknowledged before us, magistrates for said County, that he did subscribe the above writing. Given under our hands, 14th. Dec. 1787. CATo MOORE, JOHN KEARSLEY. 1022 EARLY STEAM Berkeley County, Virginia, ss. (JOo 3.) Being requested to see an experiment made by Mr JAMES RUMSEYIS Steam Boat, on Potowmack river, on Monday, the 3d of December, 1787, it was with great pleasure that we saw her get under way, with two tons on board, exclusive of her machinery, and move against the current at the rate of three miles in an hour, by the force of Steam, without any external application whatever: We are well informed, and believe, that the machinery at present is very imperfect, and by no means capable of performing what it would do if completed. We are persuaded it may be brought into common and beneficial use, and be of great advantage to all navigations, as the machine is simple, light and cheap, and does not occupy a space in the boat of more than four feet by two feet and a half. ABRAHAM SHEPHERD, JOHN MORROW, WILLIAM BRICE, HENRY BIEDINGER, DAVID GRAY, THOMAS WHITE, CHARLES MORROW, Berkeley County, Virginia, ss. Personally appeared before us, John Kearsley and Cato Moore, Justices of the Peace for the county aforesaid, the sundry subscribers to the above certificate, who are all gentlemen of reputation, and by us supposed to be competent Judges of what they have set forth, and they acknowledge the same to be their voluntary act, we were likewise present at the exhibition, and certify the truth of the above certificate. Given under our hands this 13th of December, 1787. JOHN KEARSLEY1 CATO MOORE. Berkeley County, Virginia, ss. (J b. 4.) Being requested to attend an experiment made by Mr JAMES RUMSEY with his Steam Boat, on Potowmack river, on Tuesday the 11th day of Dec. 1787, it was with great pleasure we saw her advance against the current, with about three tons on board, at the rate of four miles an hour, without an oar, or any thing but the force of steam, either to generate or assist the motion; if the machinery had been in good order, we have reason to believe, she NAVIAATION. 1023 would have gone much faster, and as the machine is light and cheap, we are well persuaded that it may be of great advantage in navigation. MOSES HOGFr, N AK J MA JOHN MORROW, CORNEL WYNKOOP, BENONI SWEARINGEN JOS: SWEARINGEN. N. B. We think the machinery does not weigh more than six or seven hundred weight, and is not included in the burthen mentioned above. Berkeley County, Virginia, ss. Personally appeared before us, two of the Justices of the Peace for the county aforesaid, the sundry subscribers to the above certificate, who are all gentler en of reputation, and by us supposed to be competent judges of what they ha1 e set forth; and they have acknowledge the same to be their volt tary act. December the 13th, 1787. CATO MOORE, JOHN,KEARSLEY. Berkeley County, Virgzinia ss. (JVo. 5.) Being requested to see an experiment made by Mr. JAMES RUMsEY's Steam Boat, on Polto mack river, on Tuesday the 11th of December 1787, it was with great pleasure we saw her get under way with upwards of three tons on board, and move against the current at the rate of fou:r miles an hour, by the force of steam, without any external appli: ation whatever: We are well informed, and believe, that the machinery at present is very imperfect, and by no means capable of performing what it would do, if completed; we are persuaded that it may be brought into common and beneficial use, and be of great advantage to navigation, as the machine is simple, light and cheap, and does not occupy a space of more than four feet by two and a half. CHARLES MORROW, ROBERT STUBBS, HENRY BEDINGER.. THOMIAS WHITE, ABRAHAM SHEPHERD. Berkeley County, Virginia. Personally appeared before us, two of the Justices of the Peace for the county aforesaid, the sundry subscribers to the above certificate, who are all gentlemen of reputation, and by us 1024 EARLY STEAM supposed to be competent judges of what they set forth, and they acknowledge the same as their voluntary act. Given under our hands this 14th December, 1787. CATo MOORE, JOHN KEARSLEY. Berkeley County, Virginia. ss. (iNo. 6.) The affidavit of William Askew, of Berkeley County, and State of Virginia, sheweth, that he was in the city of Philadelphia, as well as he remembers, in the month of September last, when he had an opportunity of seeing what is called the Steam Boat, said to be constructed by Mr. Fitch; on taking a view of which boat, (and from the information of a gentleman, who appeared to be concerned in the said machine) this deponent is of opinion, the boiler will hold five hundred gallons of water. From what he was informed from the gentlemen aforesaid, and from his own view, his opinion is, that the machinery of Mr. Fitch's boat, on a moderate calculation, will, on its present construction, weigh seven tons, exclusive of the quantity of wood necessary for the boiler. This deponent further saith, that he verily believes the machinery of Mr. Fitch's Steam boat must necessarily cost three hundred pounds.- This deponent hath lately seen the steam boat constructed by Mr. James Rumsey, of Berkeley County Virginia, and believes, from good information, as well as his own opinion on examination, that Mr. RUAvsEY's steam machinery will not, on its present construction, weigh more than eight hundred pounds, and may be worked with a very inconsiderable amount of wood or coals, perhaps not more coals in twelve hours than four bushels; and that Mr. RUMSEY'S boiler need have no more water, at one time, than one pint, or perhaps not so much, to keep the machinery in sufficient motion to stem the stream of a river, sufficiently fast to be safe with a cargo of goods. This deponent is well convinced that the whole of Mr. Rumsey's machinery may be made for twenty pounds, nor will it occupy more space in a boat than four barrels of flour. Berkeley County, Virginia. This day William Askew came before me) one of the Justices NAVIGATION. 10i2 otf the Peace for the county aforesaid, and made oath that the above testimony, as far as came within his own knowledge, is true,,and so he believes is the information he received from others. Sworn before me, December 8th, 1786. JAMES WILSON. Berkeley County, Virginia. ss. (No. 7.) To whom it may concern. On application of Mr. James Rumsey and sundry other gentlemnen, requesting my opinion, whether Mr. Fitch's or Mr. Rumsey's:Steam Boat, agreeable to the present different plans of working each boat, would be of the greatest public utility; I have, at their importunities, consented, (as far as my knowledge of the matter will admit) to give my opinion, without reserve, to the best of my judgment; and as I have seen both Mr. Fitch's and Mr. Rumseyes steam boats, with the machinery, or at least so much thereof as could be observed, by a common examination, I presume that Mr. Rumsey's plan is much more eligible, simple and practicable. Mr. Fitch's machinery appears bulky, weighty, and complicated, leaving little room in the boat in which I saw it for loading. The Weight of the whole aparatus I suppose to be five tons — whereas the whole of Mr. Rumsey's machinery, at the time of exhibition publicly, with every aparatus complete, could not weigh more than five hundred pounds. It is obvious therefore that a machine weighing one twentieth only, and of small size, comparative with the other, and by many degrees less complicated, must prove of the greatest public utility, and will be practised in preference to the other. I do therefore give it as my opinion, that Mr. Rumsey's plan is to be preferred to Mr. Fitch's. Given under my hand at SheperdsTown, this 6th day of December, 1787. HENRY BEDINGER. Berkeely County, Virginia. ss. Captain Henry Bedinger, acknowledged before us, Magistrates for the said county, that he subscribed the above writing. Given iunder our hands, this 14th day of December 1787. CATO MOORE. JOHN0 KEARSLEY. TOL, XI. ~65 1026 EARLY STEAM Berkely CountyV Virginia. We, the subscribers, have long been acquainted with the withim mentioned Captain Henry Bedinger, and have ever found him a worthy gentleman. HORATIO GATES CHART.ES MORROW, THOMAS WHITE, JOHN MARK, JOHN MORROW, ROBERT STUBBS) BENONI SWEARTNGEN, JOS. SWEARINGEN. ABRAHAM SHEPHERD, JOHN KEARSLEY. December 14, 1787. Berkeley County, Virginia. ss. The above gentlemen, who are all of good fame, subscribed the~ above certificate in my presence. Given under my hand this 14th, December, 1787. CATO MOORE. Berkely County, Virginia. ss. (J%. 8.) This day came George Rootes, before me, one of the Justices of the peace for the county aforesaid, and made Oath, that Mr. James Rumsey informed him, in the year 1784 that he was projecting a boat to work with steam, and, the said George has heard,. and verily believes that the said Mi. Rumsey, from the time of his leaving the agency of the Potowmack Company, has pursued his intention of perfecting his Steam Engine for that purpose with unremitted attention, which the said George is informed is now in great forwardness. Given under my hand, this 24th day of November, 1787. WILLIAM LITTLE. Berkely County, Virginia. ss. (Jro. 9.) This day came CHARLES MORROW, before me, one of the Justices of the Peace for the said County, and made oath, that in the beginning of the year 1785., Mr JAMES RUMSEY told him that by making use of steam he could raise WATER for MILLS, and that he would do it as soon as he had completed his steam boat. CHARLES MORROW. Sworn to and subscribed before me, this 13th of December, 1787. JOHN KEARSLEY. Berkeley County, Virginia. ss. (JVo. 10.) This day came Charles Orrick, before me, one of the Justices of the Peace for the County aforesaid, and made oath that Mr James NAVIGATION. 1027 Rursey informed him in the year 1784, that he was proposing a boat to work with steam, and that the said Nicholas doth know that the said Mr Rumsey from that time has pursued his intention of perfecting his steam engine for that purpose, and that the said Nicholas has been on board of the said Rumsey's boat, when going by the power of Steam. and has reason to believe it may answer a valuable purpose when completed. Given under my hand, this 24th day of November, 1787. WILLIAM LITTLE. Berkely County, Virginia. ss (Jo. 11.) This day came Charles Morrow, before me, one of the Justices of the peace for the aforesaid county, and made oath, that in the course of the summer 1785, Mr James Rumsey, had a boat built near the town of Bath, that early in the fall he had her brought down the river to Shepherds-Town, and shortly after Mr. Joseph Barnes was sent to Baltimore, in order to have some machinery cast; that he then understood the boat was to be propeled by steam; that shortly after Mr. Barns returned from Baltimore he was sent to Frederick-Town, in order to have some other things made, agreeable to Mr. Rumsey s directions, and thinks he returned from thence about the middle of November; that he the said Charles then saw the machinery Mr Barns had got made, viz: a boiler, two cylinders, pumps, pipes, &c. That about the First of December it appeared to the said Charles, that the whole of the Machinery was ready to be fixed to the boat, which came down to the Falls of Shanandoah for experiment, but the ice then Corimencing prevented it for the winter. That in the winter Mr Rumsey told him he had made sundry improvements; in particular, that he had invented an entirely new Constructed boiler; that the said Rumsey sent to a forge for iron, and set two smiths to work, with directions how to make it; but when it was ready to be put together, he found, upon examination, the workmanship was so badly executed that it would not answer the purpose; he therefore concluded to try an experiment with his old boiler; and the said Charles says, that Mr. Barns (Mr. Rumseyys principal Mechanic) Continued during the winter to execute the different improvements Mr. Rumsey had made; in the Spring, 1786, the machinery was put on the boat, and the first trial made, the said Charles being 1028 EARLY STEAM on board; that she went against the current until the steam escaped, by the then imperfectness of the machine. Upon an experiment made with the new boiler, the heat of the Steam was so greatly increased, that it dissolved the soft Solder, which had been thought, and before had proved, sufficient for cementing the sundry parts of such machines; and as hard solder was obliged to be used in the repairs, delays were necessarily created. July 1787, Mr. Rumsey had his new-constructed boiler repaired, which he the said Charles conceives to be the most capital contrivance to make steam that can be invented, for when the Machine is not at work, the whistling of the Steam may be heard at least half a mile; and he is convinced that it does not hold more than three gallons of water; and the said Charles further saith, that Mr. Rumsey has for several years steadily pursued his boat scheme, to the total Neglect of every other Kind of business, which has very considerably injured his circumstances, having Mr. Barns employed at five pound per month; since the year eighty-five; and that he conceives the boat to be now near her completion: And the said Charles has not a doubt but Mr. Rumsey is equal to the task of making her perform according, to the original position. CHARLES MORROW. Sworn to and subscribed before me, December 8th 1787. JOHN KEARSLEY. Berkeley County, Virginia, ss. (Vo. 12.) This day came Joseph Barns before me one of the justices of the peace for the said county, and made oath, that he was employed by Mr. James Rumsey, in May, 1785, to build a boat on Potowmack river, near the town of Bath, and that he was then informed by the said Rumsey, that the boat, when finished; was to be propelled by steam, and that he had built the boat. Soon after (he thinks in September) he went, by the request of Mr. Rumsey, to Baltimore, to get some machinery cast for the boat; and in October and November in Frederick-town, he got all the other machinery made for an experiment by Steam. In December it was put on the Boat, at Shanandoah Falls, but before it could be got ready for trial, the ice began to drive, which prevented it Also, that Mr. Rumsey, during the Wi:ter invented his new NAVIGATION. 1029 constructed boiler, and had it made ready to put together before the Spring, but it was so badly executed, that he declined making the experiment with it, but proposed to try his old boiler: accordingly in April 1786, the experiment was made, and the boat went against the current of Potowmack, but many parts of the machine being imperfect, and some parts rendered useless by the heat of the steam, he was obliged to have it repaired, which was done at the Great Falls, and she was again tried, but failed in the repaired work though it made many powerful strokes before it failed, and sent the boat forward with such power, that one man was not able to hold her. The next experiment was attempted in December, with the new constructed boiler, but the violence of the heat was so great, from the steam, that it melted the soft solder that great part of the machine was put together with, and rendered it entirely useless,,until repaired with hard solder; about this time, the ice drifting,'carried off the boat which the machinery was made for, and destroyed her in such a manner, that the repairing her was equal to one half of the expence of building a new one: That the boat was, in the spring, 1787 repaired, the machine also, and was ready for trial in September, when the boat moved up the river, against the current, with about two tons on board, besides the machinery, at the rate of two miles per hour; but the new boiler was so badly made, that it opened at several of its joints, which let great quantities of the steam escape: and the said Barns -further saith, that to his Knowledge, the machine at the last trial, on December 3, 1787, was very imperfect in many parts, as the same boiler was then made use of, after receiving some repairs: It is his opinion it may be brought to answer very valuable purposes, as it will be simple, cheap, light and durable, and may be applied to a ship of the largest size to advantage, having no external application whatever. And the said Barns further saith, that Mr. Rumsey has, to his Knowledge; injured his circumstances very much, by quitting all kinds of business to pursue the boat; that he the said Barns, has received of the said Rumsey five pounds per month besides his board, from April, 1785, to the present time which in his opinion, is but a small part of the expenses the said Mr. Rumsey must have been at in the prosecuting his plan. His new constructed boiler must exceed every thing 1030 EARLY STEAM of that kind yet extant, as it will not hold more than twenty pints) and in his opinion, will make more steam than a five hundred gallon boiler in the common way: and from the observation he has made, has reason to believe, that six bushels of good coals will serve it for twelve hours. The Weight of the present machine is about seven hundred pound, and will not occupy more space than four flour barrels. Sworn before me, this 10th December, 1787. CATO MOORE. (Jbo. 13.) A PARAGRAPH from GENERAL WASHINGTON'S Letter, in answer to mine of the 10th of March 1785. c It gives me much pleasure to find by your letter, that you are not less sanguine in your boat project than when I saw you in Richmond, and that you have made such further discoveries as will render them more extensively useful than was at first expected, you have my best wishes for the success of your plan."' (JVo. 14.) ANNAPOLIS, December 18, 1787. In compliance with your request I mention the principal facts and circumstances, with which I am acquainted respecting your Steam Engine, and your expectation of its effect in boat navigation. I was entirely ignorant of the principle on which you were to gain your power, and your manner of applying it, till our return from the Great Falls together, in October or November (but I think October) 1785, when you told me that you relied on steam for your first power, and wished me to promote your having cylinders cast at my brother's and my works; the attempt did not succeed. I considered myself under an obligation of secrecy till in the progress of making copper cylinders in Frederick-Town some time after, when I found, that the designed purpose of the cylinder was a subject of pretty general conversation. Being on the committee appointed to consider and report on Mr. Fitch's petition, I thought it my duty to mention what was in my memory, of your telling me that you had communicated your WAVIGATION. 1031 principle to General Washington, as I thought, tho7 perhaps imistakenly, at the time your model and experiment were exhibited before the General; and with the approbation of the committee, wrote to the General on the subject; his answer now before me, is to this effect, that "at that time, September, 1781, nothing was intimated of Steam; that the November following, in Richmond, you spoke to him of the effect of steam, and of the conviction you were under of the usefulness of its application for the purpose of inland navigation," but the General seems to have thought it an immatured idea, that he did not then imagine you relied on. Mr. Fitch having often mentioned the time (I think April 1785) when the idea first struck him, and yours being prior, the *committee could not report in favor of Mr. Fitch, the Gen. added to his answer, c It is proper for me herewith to add, that some time after this Mr. Fitch called on me, in his way to Richmond, and explaining his scheme, wanted a letter from me introductory to the Assembly of this (Virginia) state, the giving of which I declined, and went so far as to inform him, that though I was enjoined not to disclose the principles of Mr. Rumsey's discovery, yet I would venture to assure him, that the thought of applying steam was not original, but had been mentioned to me by Mr. Rumsey. I esteem myself no ways competent to decide on philosophical or mechanical principles, but if you can simplify the steam engine, render it cheap, and apply its powers to raise water in great quantities for the purposes of agriculture and water works of all kinds, or apply the powers more immediately, as has been much the subject of conversation between us at times, every man may easily perceive a vast field of improvement will thereby be opened, which I most sincerely wish you may largely reap the good fruits of; I am Sir, your most obedient servant, THOMAS JOHNSONo Berkeley County, Virginia, ss. (AJo. 15.) This day came Michael Bedinger, before me one of the Justices of the Peace for the said county, and made oath, that Mr. James Rums ey informed himn in, or before the month of March 1784, tha 1032 EARLY STEAM he was of opinion that a boat might be constructed to work by Steam, and that he intended to give it a trial,.and mentioned some: of the machinery that would be necessary to reduce it to practice *. and the said Michael further saith, that he set out for Kentucky, immediately after, in order to survey some lands, and resided there upwards of Eighteen months, and that during the time of his stay there, he frequently mentioned Mr. Rurmsey's boat scheme:. He believes that he also mentionedr that it was to be wrought by steam. The above was voluntarily sworn before me,. by Capt. Bedinger, who is a gentleman of reputation. November 28th 1787. JoHN KEARSLEY. We whose names are hereunto subscribed, certify, that the within mentioned Michael Bedinger is a gentleman of reputation and veracity. HORATIO GATES, CHARLES MORROW,. THOMAS WHITE, JOHN MARK, JAMES KERNEY, PHILLIP PENDLETON, JOHN MORROW, ROBERT STUBBSo JOSEPH MITCIELL. (No. 18.) The underwritten is a paragraph of a letter from a Mr. Daniel Buckley, living near Philadelphia, to a gentleman of Berkeley county, Virginia, and "Dr McMechen,1f whom Mr. Buckley is so concerned for, is a partner with Mr Rumsey in his steamboat.'Tis copied and annexed, to prove how busy Mr Fitch has been in calumny, and how easily he found credit and propagators. Should! he incline to assert hereafter, what credit he will deserve has beer so clearly proved, that future impositions may be avoided; ani those who spread slander they do not believe, deserve the contempt of all honest men. Please to give my sincere respects to Doctor McMechen and his worthy lady-he is my most particular acquaintance, and truly I am sorry he has been deluded by a person, who I have reason to believe is a deceiver, as Mr. Fitch, of Philadelphia, says, Mr Rumsey got what small knowledge he has of steam from him, but he retained the Essentials, without which, he says Mr Rumsey cannot succeed." 1. In the 1st edition of this pamphlet this name is printetd' McMahono,,'-E —D. ^AtXGATIO 1033 We do certify that the avove paragraph was taken from the aforesaid letter, and copied in our presence. CHARLES MORROW, GEORGE ROOTES. POSTCRIPT. It was not my intention, at this time to present to the Public a description of some improvements I have made upon the construce tion of Water Mills of several kinds, and would not have introduced the small sketch given here, of some part of such'plans which I now have, and hereafter may propose, and exhibit to the world, but as I find by experience, that there is danger of being supplanted or undermined in any useful and profitable discovery, where the inventor cannot preserve to himself, the plan entirely until he has brought it to that perfection which would authorise his producing it to the Public and claiming the reward they might consider his invention merited, I therefore, from the solicitations and advice of several friends have ventured to drop the following hints relative to some of them. On considering the common method of applying water to work mills of every sort, or any other machines, I have found there is but a very small part of the power applied, inadequate greatly to what might be had, from the quantity of water expended, especially for undershot wheels; I therefore endeavoured, by a practicable examination to find whether a method might not be discovered to remedy the defect, so as to apply the power of water in a more effectual and advantageous manner. On investigation of Doctor Barker's thoughts on a new invented mill, that if a few difficulties (which appeared insuperable in his plan) could be removed, it would be the most powerful method of directing water to turn mills, or other machinery (where circumvolution is required) that has been yet discovered or made use of. These apparent difficulties I have been happy enough to find out effectual means to obviate, by an application of the water, on nearly the same principles as those suggested by the Doctor, though more simple and less expensive. The utility of these propositions I have proved by experiments, whence I found, that a fourth part 1034 EARLY STEAM of the expended water, and a tenth part of the expense usually accrued, will pay the cost, and answer every purpose of all the work or mechanism, at present made use of, for grist mills, &c. With regard to a Saw Mill, or any other machines that have retrograde movements, I have contrived a method of supplying them with water, in such a manner, that one twentieth part of what is generally expended, will answer every intent and purpose requisite - My new invented Machine for raising Water, is simple; the cost will not be more than twenty guineas, to complete the mechanism of one sufficiently large to raise water to work six saws, or turn a grist mill. Models of these machines I have, and purpose taking them with me to the next meetings of the different Assemblies, to whom I mean to apply, for encouragement, and at the same time convince them of the truth and utility of my proposals. (So. 19.) The following is part of a letter, wrote by the editor, to his Excellency General Washington, dated the 10th. of March, 1785. After mentioning that kind of machine for propelling boats which the General had seen a model of, I proceed to'say,-" I have taken the greatest pains to perfect another kind of boat, upon the principles I mentioned to you at Richmond in November last, and have the pleasure to inform you that I have brought it to great perfection; it is true it will cost something more than the other way, but, when in use, will be more manageable, and can be worked with as few hands; the power is immense-and I have quite convinced myself that boats of passage may be made to go against the current of the Jlississippi or Ohio rivers, or in the GufJ Stream (from the Leeward to the Windward-lslands) from sixty to one hundred miles per day. I know this will appear strange and improbable to many persons, yet I am very certain it may be performed, besides, it is simple (when understood) and is also strictly philosophical. The principle of this boat I am very cautious not to explain, as it would be easily executed by an ingenious person. The plan I mean to pursue, is to put both the machines on board of boats" built on a large scale, and then, sir, if you would be kind * There were two boats connected, in the model I exhibited in September 1784, which is the reason I speak of boats in the plural, as experiment has convinced me that a single boat would not succeed on that principle. AVIGATION. 1035 enough to see them make actual performances, I should not doubt but the Assemblies would allow; me something handsome, which would be more advantageous to the public than to give me the exclusive right of using them. FI JIS. NoTE.-The preceding pamphlet was first published by Rumsey January l3 1788, under the Title of "c A PLAN wherein the power of STEAM is fully shewn, By a new constructed Machlne, for propelling Boats or Vessels, of any burthen, against the most rapid streams or rivers, with great velocity. Also, a MACHINE, Constructed on similar philosophical principles, by which water may be raised for Grist or Saw-Mills, watering of Meadows &c. &c." pp. 20. It is this Edition that Fitch alludes to in his "' Preface, post. p. 1040.9" But it is identically a reprint of the above, with the exception of a paragraph complaining of someperson in Baltimore who in June, 1787, borrowed his plan of raising water by steam, and then had a machine made on Mr. Rumsey's principles. This person "had the audacity to petition the Maryland Assembly to give him an exelusive right for the emoluments of another's invention, so surreptitiously obtained; but he received the denial he so justly merited." The c< Postscript"5 and the Extract of General Washington's Letter of 10th March, 1785, are not in the first Edition. Whoever desires to consult this last mentioned Edition of Rumsey, will find it in cc Pamphlets,": Vol. 82, N. Y. Soc. Library, to which Insti'ution we are indebted for the copy of Rumsey published above. A copy is also mentioned in the Catalogue of the Library Company, Philadelphia. —En 1036 EARLY STEAM THE RUMSEIAN SOCIETY, PHILADELPHIA, TO THE SPEAKER OF THE HOUSE OF ASSEMBLY, N. Y. [N. Yo Assembly Papers, Miscel. Vol. 3.] September 23d 1788 James Rumsey an ingenious Gentleman a native of Maryland but lately from Virginia in December last exhibited before a number of respectable characters in Maryland and Virginia the effects of Steam in propelling a boat of considerable Burthen against the Current of the River Powtomack, and Models of machines for the Raising Water to a great height and in large Quantities by the force of Steam, in both which a Boiler upon entirely new Construction invented by himself is used with the greatest apparent probability of far Exceeding all others heretofore known, not only in point of Force but in the Smallness of the Quantity of Fuel necessary to generate the Steam. He came to this City some months ago with Drafts and descriptions of his Several Inventions and communicated them to a number of Gentlemen here who Struck with the Simplicity of his several Contrivances and the great advantages with wliich they might be applied to many useful purposes agreed to afford him Some Assistance in carrying his schemes into Execution To this end the persons a list of whose names is herewith sent formed themselves into a Company by the name of the Rumseian Society and appointed us a Committee of Correspondence to further the design in distant places. As steam Engclnes are now used in Europe not only for the purpose of raising water from Mines of Great depth but for a variety of other mechanical purposes where a strong force is necessary and where water Falls were formerly appliedWe thought it advisable that James Rumsey should immediately go thither to secure to himself any advantages which might result from an Invention so extensively useful in that Country and he accordingly sailed in the month of May in a vessel bound for London: before he took his Departure he signed a Petition which will be presented to the honorable the Legislature of your State stating his several Inventions and praying an Act may be passed granting him the Exclusive Priveledge of making and vending them for a reasonable Term of years-And at the same time a NAVIGATION. 1037 Power of Attorney was Executed and sent by him to Doctr James PMc IMNechin, Joseph Barnes and Charles Morrow Esqr authorising them or either of them to attend in person and Solicit for him the granting the Prayer of his Petition. Joseph Barnes we are informed is a very ingenious mechanic who has been employed by James Rumsey in Constructing his several machines and is perfectly acquainted with all his Inventions and has abilities adequate to the Construction of them in the absence of the Inventor. He is also 1n possession of the models and Drafts necessary to show the Utility of them and as soon as Exclusive Rights therein for a reasonable Term of Years shall be obtained fror the honorable the Legislature of the State of New-York, he will be ordered to attend as well to carry the said machines into Effect as to instruct suitable Persons to Construct them in his absence. As the promotion of useful Discoveries in the Arts and sciences is an Object worthy the Attention of Enlightened men and accordingly has in all ages and Countries met with Patrons amongst those most distinguished for their knowledge, good sense and Patriotism, we doubt not but that a Scheme, that promises so much improvement will meet with advocates and support in the general Assembly of New-York, over which you so honorably to yourself and to them preside-And we therefore take the Liberty to request your Countenance to James Rumsey's Petition so far as the prayer thereof shall seem to you Consistant with the public good, and if it should not be Contrary to the Rules of the House, we should take it a particular favor that this Letter be read from the Chair in order to bespeak the favorable attention of the Honorable members to the Subject, We are With the greatest Respect Your assured Friends and obedient humble servants MIERS FISHER BENJAMIN WYNKOOP LEVI HOLLINGSWORTH The Honoble John Lansing Esqr Speaker of the House of Assembly 1038 EARLY STEAM NAVIGATION. A LIST OF THE RUMSEIAN SOCIETY. His Excellency Benjamin Franklin Esqr. William Barton Arthur St Clair Richard Adams William Bilgham Samuel Wheeler Benjamin Wynkoop Samuel Magaw James Tunchard Adam Kuhn John Jones Miers Fisher Levi Hollingsworth M. F. for Robert Barclay Joseph James of London John Wilson Charles Vancouver Geo Duffield Burgis Allison Reed & Forde John Vaughn Woodrop & Joseph Sims John Ross William Redwood & Son William Turner Endorsed A Letter from Miers Fisher and others of the Rumseian Society at Philadelphia to the Speaker of the Assembly in New York. In Assembly Dec 18th 1788. Read & referred with the Petition of James Rumsey to Mr. Livingston Mr. Havens and Mr. Van Cortlandt. 0 R I GTE A L SUSTEA PRA SUP PORTED; O R. A R E P L Y TO MR. JAMES RUMSEY's PAMPHLET. S H E WT I N G T H E TR U E P R I O R I TY 0 F J O H N F I T C H, AN D T H E F A L S E D A T I N G S, &c. OF JA M ES R U M S E Y. P H I L s D E L P HI s: PRINTED BY ZACHARIAH POULSON, JUNR. ON THE WEST SIDE OF FOURTH-STREET, BETWEEN MARKET AND ARCH-STREETS. M DCC LXXXVIII. A GREEABLY to a promise made in the Independant Gazetteer, l I now present to the Public a reply to the Pamphlet published by Mr. Rumsey, of Virginia,-and as I have no matter to conceal, or disguise, and wish my Readers to have a full and fair view of the whole controversy, I have reprinted and annexed Mr. Rumseys Pamphlet, which will discover, to every impartial person who will take the trouble to examine the subject, that he hath no sort of just pretensions to the claims he hath exhibited.-His skill in the mechanism of a Steam Engine, may possibly be greater than mine, and in the article of CONDENSATION I freely acknowledge he is my superior, having acquired the art of condensing (with the dash of his pen) one whole year into the compass of six days. JOHN FITCH. Philadelphia 10th. May, 1788. ITHE ORIGINAL S T E A M-B O A T SUPPORTED, &c. It is the duty of every man not only to avoid the commission of a crime, but so to conduct himself through life as to bear the strictest scrutiny. In a Pamphlet published by Mr. James Rumsey and lately circulated in this City, as well as probably in other States, I am charged as the perpretator of crimes attrocious in their nature, but of which my conscience fully acquits me. It is an exercise of malevolence in the extreme thus publicly to prefer charges against an innocent person without previously knowing or enquiring for the defence of the supposed of'enderand shows an inability in the accuser to support his charges. Unfortunately for Mr. Rumsey, I trust we are now before an impartial Public, where Justice, unbiassed by party or undue influence, will decide between usConscious of my conduct, in the prosecution of this business, being that of an honest man, it is incumbent on me to recite the circumstances, and facts relative thereto. I confess the thought of a Steamboat, which struck me by mere accident, about the middle of April 17855, has hitherto been very unfortunate to me; the perplexities and embarrassments through which it has caused me to wade, far exceed any thing, that the common course of life ever presented to my view. After pondering Vide No. 1 and 2. VOL II. 66 1042 EARLY STEAM some days on the thought, I made a rough draught, but not daring to trust my own opinion too far, I consulted Mr. Daniel Longstreth, the Revd. Nathaniel Irvin and sundry other Gentlemen of Bucks county Pennsylvania. About the beginning of June 1785, I went to Philadelphia and shewed it to Dr. Ewing, Mr. Patterson and other respectable characters in the city, from whom I met with no discouragement. In June and July I formed models and in August laid them before Congress, as will appear on their Files. In September I presented them to the Philosophical Society, as per certificate. No. 3. Philadelphia 1785. September 27th. 1785. At a special meeting of the American Philosophical Society: A model accompanied with a drawing and description of a machine for working a boat, against the Stream, by means of a Steam Engine, was laid before the Society by JOHN FITCH. At a meeting of the American Philosophical Society, on December 2d. 1785. A copy of the drawing and description of a machine for working a boat against the current, which, some time ago, was laid before the Society by Mr. JOHN|FITCH, he, this evening, presented to them. Extract from the M1inutes SAMUEL MAGAW One of the Secretaries. In October I called on the ingenious Mr. Henry, of Lancaster, to take his opinion on my drafts, who informed me, that I was not the first person who had thought of applying Steam to vessels; that he had conversed with Mr Andrew Ellicott as early as the year 1775, and that Mr Paine) author of Common Sense, had suggested the same thing to him in the winter of 1778; that some time after, he (Mr Henry) thinking more seriously of the matter, was of opinion it might be easily perfected and accordingly made some drafts which he proposed to lay before the Philosophical Society and which he then showed me, but added as he had neglected to bring NAVIGATION. 1043 them to public view, and as I had first published the plan to the world he would lay no claim to the invention. The following I,have been favored with from Mr Ellicott: No 4. Baltimore, April 26th 1788. I do hereby certify, that early in the year one thousand, seven hundred and seventy five, Mr William Henry, of Lancaster, conversed with me on the subject of steam and intimated that he though t t might be advantageously applied to the Navigation of Boats, (Signed) ANDREW ELLICOTT. From Lancaster I went to the Assembly of Virginia, first waiting on Governor Johnson, of Maryland, who, notwithstanding the letters he has since written in favour of Mr Rumsey, acknowledged a merit in my invention, and that it ought to be encouraged, as will presently appear. During my journey through Maryland, in October, I passed through Frederick Town, and every where published my Plan. In Virginia I waited on his Excellency General Washington, who, in the course of conversation, informed mne, that the thought of applying steam was not original, that Mr Rumsey had mentioned Steam to him; but nothing that passed in the conversation with General Washington had the least tendency to convey the idea of Mr Rumseyes relying on Steam, and General Washington's letter, page 10, in Mr RumseyIs Pamphlet, clears up the matter-for the General himself did not conceive any such -thing. Knowing that the thought of applying Steam to Boats had been suggested by other Gentlemen long before, I left his Excellency General Washington with all the elated prospects that an aspiring projector could entertain, not doubting but I should reap the full benefit of the project, for although I found that some had conceived the thought before, yet I was the first that ever exhibited a plan to the public; and was fully convinced that I could not interfere with Mr Rumsey, otherwise the known candor of General Washington must have pointed out to me such interference. I immediately applied to the Legislature of Virginia for assistance, to execute my plan, who signified their wish to encourage my designs, but that the state of their finances prevented it-the then'Governor of the state, Patuck Henry, Esqr received from me an 1044 EARLY STEAM obligation with provision, that if I procured in that state a sale -fob one thousand of my Maps of theN. W. part of the United States, at 6f8 each, I should exhibit a Steam Boat on the waters cf Virginia, within nine months or forfeit and pay to the State of Virginia ~350. as appears by the following certificate: No. 6. I certify that John Fitch has left in my hands a bond payable to the Governor for the time being for ~350. conditioned for exhibiting his steam Boat when he receives subscriptions for 1000 of his maps, 6f 8 each. November 16th 1785. (Signed) P. HEN RY. I then returned to Maryland and acquainted Governor Johnson of my expected assistance in Virginia, and that I intended applying to the Assembly of Maryland then sitting, to promote and patronise my scheme-Governor Johnson gave me the following Letter to General Smallwood, the then Governor of the state. N.. 7. Frederick Town November'25th 1785. SIR Mr John Fitch of Bucks county, in Pennsylvania, called on me in his way toRichmond; he has gone through a variety of scenes in the back country, which has enabled him to collect a knowledge of a great part of the new states, on which and other helps he has made a map useful and entertaining; his ingenuity in this way strongly recommends him, but his genius is not confined to this alone, he has spent much thought on an improvement of the steamengine, by which to gain a first power applicable to a variety of uses, amongst others to force vessels forward in any kind of water; if this engine can be simplified, constructed and made to work at a small expense, there is no doubt but it will be very useful in most great works, and amongst them in ship building, Mr Fitch wants to raise money to make an experiment on Boats, the countenance that he has met with in Virginia he hopes will enable him to do it, he wishes also to make other experiments, and is willing to enter into engagements to apply a large proportion of the sales of his maps, his principle fund., I believe his passion for this improvement will be ample security for his applying the money in that way;-all 'NAVIGATION- 1045 that I have to request of you Sir, is, that you will give him an opportunity to converse with you, you will soon perceive he is a man of real genius and modesty, your countenancing him will -follow of course. I am Sir Your Excellency's (Subscribed) most obedient and most humble His Excellency Governor Smallwood. Servant Favor of THOS JOHNSON. MAr Fitch. From hence it plainly appears that Governor Johnson could not at that time have any idea of my scheme interfering with Mr. Rumsey's as seems to be now insinuated in that gentlemans letter to Mr. Rumsey, No. 14 of his Pamphlet. I attended the session of the legislature about three weeks after receiving this letter, and on my petition for assistance to execute'my plan, they made me the following report or nearly in these words (as may appear by examining their minutes) "However desirous it is for liberal and enlightened legislators to encourage useful arts, yet the state and condition of our finances are such that there can be no advance of public money at present." From this report it is proved beyond all doubt, that the Assembly of Maryland did not conceive my plan the same as Mr. Rumsey'sfinding that I was undoubtedly the first person in America that could be termed the inventor of a steam Boat, either agreeably to custom, or equity, I thought it prudent to apply to the different states for the exclusive privileges for the emoluments of such invention, which were granted by New Jersey in March 1786 by Delaware, New-York and Pennsylvania, in the winter and spring following, and by Virginia in October 1787, I have from the time of,my first thought pursued my scheme with unremitted application, without a suspicion of an interruption, until the circulation of Mr. Rumsey's invidious Pamphlets, the contents of which I now find it necessary to take under consideration, not doubting but that the design and tendency of that production will be a sufficient apology for the plainness with which I shall treat it. Mr. Rumseysays in page2, "Thatin the month of September,1784 1046 EARLY STEAM he exhibited the model of a Boat to his Excellency General Was — igton, at Bath in Berkeley County, calculated for stemming the, current of rapid rivers only, constructed on principles very different from(his) present one; satisfied of the experiment of her making way against a rapid stream by the force of the stream the General waspleased to give me a most ample certificate of her efficacy." Here it is to be observed, that no mention was made to General Washington of steam, at the time of such exhibition; the principles on, which the Boat was propelled, were entirely unconnected with,, and distinct from steam; being simply a model propelled by water wheels, cranks, and setting poles; a mode which was many years. ago tried on the river Schuylkill by a farmer near Reading, but without success. From an exhibition of this plan it was that Mr. Rumsey procured the certificate from General Washington, and on that certificate were Mr. Rumsey's laws founded. In his peti — tions to the several legislatures, he prayed for no exclusive right,, for the use of Steam Boats; neither did he make mention of Steam,, to their committees; or even suggest an idea of the kind; as proof of which, I offer the following petition to the Assembly of Pennsylvania, the certificate from General Washington, accompanying, it, and the certificate of Manuel Eyre, Esquire, who was one of the committee of Assembly, who reported in Mr. Rumsey's favor. No. 8. I have seen the model of Mr. Rumseyes Boats, constructed toi work against streams: examined the powers upon which it actsy been eye witness to an actual experiment, in running water of some rapidity; and give it as my opinion (although I had little faith before) that he has discovered the art of working boats by mechanism and small manual assistance against rapid currents;. that the discovery is of vast importance; may be of the greatest usefulness in our inland navigation, and, if it succeeds, of which I have no doubt, that the value of it is greatly enhanced by the simplicity of the works: which when seen and explained may be executed by the most common mechanic. Given under my hand, at the town of Bath, County of Berkeley in the State of Virginia this 7th of September 1784. GEORGE WASHINGTON. NAVIGATION, 1047 No 9. To the Honourable the Representatives of the State of Pennsylvania in General.lssembly met. Gentlemen, Whereas your petitioner has formed a plan for facilitating the navigation of rapid rivers; he therefore doth propose to construct a certain species of Boats of the burthen of ten tons which shall sail or be propelled by the combined influence of certain mechanical powers thereto applied, the distance of between twenty-five and forty miles per day, against the current of a rapid river, notwithstanding the velocity of the water should move at the rate of five miles per hour and upwards, with the burthen of ten tons on board, to be wrought at no greater expense than that of three hands; and as a premium of so useful an invention, your petitioner prays for an act to pass this honourable house, granting to your petitioner, his heirs and assigns, the sole and exclusive right of constructing, navigating and employing boats constructed upon his new invented model upon each and every creek, river, bay, inlet and harbour within the limits and jurisdiction of this commonwealth, for and during the term of ten years, fully to be completed and ended, to be computed from the first day of January next; provided always, that the legislature of this commonwealth may, at any time within the term aforesaid, abolish the exclusive right herein prayed for by the payment of - pounds in gold or silver. And your petitioner, as in duty bound, shall pray. JAMES RUMSSEY. The foregoing is a true copy of the original petition remaining on the files of the General Assembly and read in the house November 26, 1784. J. SHALLUS,. sto Clk. No 10. Philadelphia, 6th May, 1788. This may certify that I the subscriber was in Assembly for the year 1784, and was appointed one of the committee to report on Mr James Rumsey's petition for his Boat to go against the streams of rapid rivers, and that there was no mention nor any idea held 1048 EARLY STEAM up to the committee that it was to be propelled by the force of steamo (Signed) MANUEL EYRE. Now I ask, whether it does not amount to a positive proof that Mr Rumsey had no sort of reference to, or dependence on, Steam? General Washington says, "It is so simple that it may be executed by the most common mechanic;" which certainly his excellency would not have said of a Steam-engine; a machine that has cost me two years to understand and compleat. If we examine the Petition, we shall find, that it confirms the General's idea of simplicity; for Mr Rumsey says " it may be wrought at no greater expense than that of three hands,' plainly indicating, that the expense of fire was not in contemplation; and to put the matter out of all doubt, Mr Eyre declares, " There was no idea held up to the committee that it was to be propelled by Steam." All Mr Rumsey's laws were obtained, in consequence of his model, shewn to General Washington at Bath; which, as I have said, was nothing but water wheels, cranks and setting poles; therefore he could have no pretension to the use of Steam, under those laws. With the same propriety, his claim might extend to every power, and every machine in the United States; as soon as any man had invented one that would suit his purpose. So that upon his plan of law making, no other man would be safe in expending his money, but all must be swallowed up by his pretendedly ambiguous laws. But I am happy in knowing, that his laws as well as his claims, cannot interfere with mine; for had he professed any reliance on Steam; or any intention to apply it to his boats, he certainly would not have neglected inserting so important a part of the scheme, in his petitions to the different legislatures. Nor, ould he have prayed to be invested with the exclusive privilege, to use boats, constructed on such different principles from those he really intended to pursue. In Mr1 Rumsey' s act passed in Pennsylvania, it is stiled " The exclusive right of constructing, navigating and employing boats built and to be built on his new invented mode," and this new invented mode (viz. cranks, water wheels and setting poles) is all he was entitled to under that law. Can it be supposed NAVIGATION. 1049 that the legislatures would not have included Steam in their laws, if they had been informed by Mr Rumsey that it was his grand dependance; the essential, the vital part of his scheme as he now professes. That they had no such intimation given them, is very evident from their encouragement to me; and the laws since passed, are the fullest proofs of the received meaning of Mr Rumsey' s petitions, viz. that they had no connection with steam. And that Mr Rumsey did not think himself misunderstood, must certainly be granted; because he made no objection to any of my petitions, as interfering with his Laws, which, agreeable to his own declarations, were founded on principles very different from a Steam-boat. That he had no claim to Steam under his laws is evident, from his confession in page 4, line 31, xhere he says " I find my idea of Steam was nearly matured before Steam had ever entered his head by his confession to Governor Johnson viz. April 1785.'1 Now can it be supposed that Mr Rumsey had made considerable improvements on Steam-engines in 1784, or that he had obtained laws securing a right to the use of Steam to Boats, when at the time of his petitioning for, and the passing of those laws, he confesses his idea of Steam was not matured. He says in page 3, line i, " In the course of that fall and winter (of 1784) he made progress in some Steam-engines, and page 16 line 7, of Governor Johnsons letter, " I think in October 1785, you told me you relied on Steam for your first power, and wished me to promote your having some cylinders cast at my brother's and my works; the attempt did not succeed."5 Speaking of General Washington, the Governor adds " But the General seems to have thought it an immatured idea that he did not imagine you then relyed on" (viz. in November 1784.) These two last acknowledgements on the part of Mr Rumsey, must destroy the facts alledged in the first, viz. that " He made progress in Steamengines in the fall and winter of 1784." For the information given to General Washington in confidence respecting the boat, was such that the General " Did not think he then relyed on Steam," which is fully confirmed, by his making use of the Generals certificate to the Assemblies, wherein the discovery is treated as being " enhanced by its simplicity, and may be executed by the 1050 EARLY STEAM most common mechanic" which surely no person would say of a Steam-engine. His application to Governor Johnson for castings for a Steamengine, is insinuated to have been in October or November 17855 which I must deny, and refer to the Governor's own letter for the proof; being confident that no such application had been made to that gentleman by Mr Rumsey, previous to my obtaining the letter of Recommendation to Governor Smallwoo-d, But even had it been true it goes no further back than October or November 1785, which was the very time I was publishing my plan through Pennsylvania, Maryland and Virginia, and was near three months after the time I laid it before Congress-And yet this attempt to have a cylinder cast, at Governor Johnson's works in October or November 17857 is the first essay towards bringing forward a Steam-engine, that is offered in proof, admitting it to have been at the time Governor Johnson supposes, which I cannot allow for reasons I shall presently offer in addition to what I have already said on this head. Then how are we to reconcile the assertion of Mr Rumsey's having made considerable progress in Steam-engines 4 in the fall or winter of 1784," when it appears his first attempt (by this account) was not made until after October or November 1785 as mentioned by Governor Johnson's letter. I shall hereafter show to a demonstration, beyond all possibility of doubt, that this same engine, said to have been completely made in Frederick Town in December 1785, was not begun until March 1786. On comparing Governor Johnson's letter, sent under my care to General Smallwood, dated November 25th, 1785, (a considerable time after I first explained to him my model and acquainted him of my intentions of pursuing the scheme) with his letter to Mr Rumsey, dated December the 18th. 1787, it must unavoidably call in question the memory or candour of the writer, the latter I most certainly ought to acquit, and should have been happy had I obtained the last explanation on this head, when I lately made a journey to his house; expressly to procure it; possibly it may still be received. If Governor Johnson knew, and believed the legal priority of Mr1 Rumsey's claim, to a Steam boat, and was entrusted with his secret, how was it possible he could have encouraged a NAVIGATION. 105 X man " of real genius and modesty" (as he was pleased to term me) to proceed on an experiment, which terminate as it would, must inevitably end in loss and disappointment. For should the experiment fail, which was then thought very doubtful, the small fund, which I should raise by the sale of my maps, must likewise fail for I was to expend it in Virginia as appears by Governor Henry's certificate page 5. Should the experiment succeed to the utmost of my wishes, I should suffer more severely, not in my money and time only) but in my reputation; and meet the treatment of a man trespassing on the rights of a fellow citizen, who had a low in his favour. Had Governor Johnson at the time he encouraged me, known the priority of claim to be fairly and justly in Mr Rumsey, had he been then in possession of his secret, or had he believed any title vested in Mr Rumsey, to the exclusive use of Steam, under the law of Maryland, so recently passed in his favor, the Governor certainly would not have requested a gentleman of General Smallwood's rank to countenance me, not only to trespass on the rights of M' Rumsey, but to violate a law, which as Governor of the state he was bound to support. Another circumstance corroborates my assertion of misrelation of facts, as to time. It will be recollected that Governor Johnson's letter recommending me so very minutely and warmly to the patronage of Governor Smallwood, was dated 25th November 1785. And in his letter to Mr. Rumsey, the Governor says, "' In October or November 1785. you told me you relied on Steam for your first power and wished me to promote your having some castings at my brother' s and my works: the attempt did not succeed-I considered myself under an obligation to secrecy,'till in the progress of making copper cylinders in Frederick Town, some time after, when I found that the designed purpose of the cylinder was a subject of pretty general conversation."-Now the Governor's letter in my favour was dated 25th. November 1785, and the whole machinery is sworn to have been eompleated on the 1st December following, only six days after the time of my getting this letter of recommendation-and as the cylinder was a subject of " pretty general conversation," I could not have been kept in ignorance by the Governor from his 46 Obligation to secrecy" because it was no longer a secret 1052 EARLY STEAM in Frederick-town. The thing was impossible in its nature, that the cylinders and copper works should have been making, and a subject of general conversation, in Frederick-town, on 25th day of November 1785, the time I was obtaining my letter of introduction to Governor Smallwood, in that very town; and must have heard it myself if Governor Johnson had been so disengenuous as to conceal it from me; which is absurd to suppose; for I made ny business publicly known in that town, and therefore, if Mr. Rumsey's cylinders were the subject of general conversation, I must have heard it from every quarter; therefore it clearly follows, that the conversation about casting of the cylinders, the obligation of secrecy, and the general conversation about the design of the cylinders in Frederick-town, could not have happened in the year 1785.-If Mr. Rumsey had made Governor Johnson his confident " In October or November 1785," it is highly improbable that he would so far have deceived Mr. Rumsey and me, as to encourage my pursuit of a similar nature, within so short a time as six days of its being compleated.-And it is equally improbable that Mr. Rumsey should have communicated this secret and requested his assistance in procuring castings immediately cfter my being with the Governor, as there was not time for it-the engine being sworn as I have said to have been all compleated six days after that visitThen the following conclusion may be safely drawn, that Governor Johnson did at some subsequent day (so long after as that he forgot the letter he had given me) offer to assist Mr. Rumsey with castings; which not succeeding, an application was made to coppersmiths in Frederick-town the ensuing spring, who in the course of the summer 1786, delivered their work to Mr. Rumsey.About this time it was that the matter became a subject of " general conversation;"-and if winter stopped the putting of the whole machinery into motion as was sworn to by Messrs. Barns and Morrow, it was the winter of 1786, which is long after my boat was built, and my model of a Steam-engine compleated.-Of this my readers will soon be fully convinced-and a further weighty proof is-that as Mr. Rumsey professes his hurrying on his engine) was on account of my setting up pretensions, it cannot be believed that he would suffer my petition to lay before the assembly of NAVIGATION. 1053 Maryland, and be reported on in my favour about the 20th December 1785, nineteen days after he says his boat and engine were finished-Mr. Foy the member from Frederick-town must have told the tale, and laid in a claim for his countryman,-but I repeat it again, that I was in that very Frederick-town on my way to the Assembly in thefall of 1785, every where publishing my scheme, and no Engine was began there during that year, nor until March following, as will be fully shewn-but before I come to my proofs I wish to confute him out of his own writings. Let me pursue his explanation still further, and ask, what could be the use of secresy in this business, if Mr. Rumsey, as he alledges, was secured in the use of the invention by law? Could he expect any countenance from the public, for a scheme wrapped up in secresy and which is confessed by Governor Johnson to have remained so until after I had published my plan, both in Maryland and Virginia-Mr. Rumsey and his confidential friends might have died, and then no advantage could have arisen to the community; and until such advantage was publicly imparted, certainly nothing could be expected from the public. In page 16 he inserts part of a letter from General Washington in answer to his of the 10th. March 1785:' It gives me much pleasure to find by your letter, that you are not less sanguine in your boat project, than when I saw you at Richmond, and that you have made such further discoveries as will render them more extensively useful than was at first expected" —but still it is plain that the General only alluded to the setting pole plan, for in his answer to Governor Johnson (even after my petition was before the Assembly of Maryland) he still thought that Mr. Rumsey had " No reliance on Steam"- The General's saying that he thought Mr. Rumsey's idea of steam was " Immature" in November, 1784 (the time they were at Richmond) is a proof that Mr. Rumseyes 4 being not less sanguine" must have alluded to his setting pole scheme because no man can be said to be sanguine in any thing of which he has but 1s An immatured idea"; and " Further discoveries" will not apply to Steam, because Steam could be no new discovery, and was mentioned to the general at Richmond nor is any thing mentioned of Steam in the General's Letter; at 1054 EARLY STEAM least in the extract. It is reasonable to suppose, if Steam had been' the dependable discovery, it would have been treated on more largely, and have produced a more pointed answer; the truth is, Mr. Rumsey placed no dependance on Steam, until my plan came forward, and his own had failed; conscious of the weakness of his claim, and the futility of his arguments to support it, he found that something more was necessary than merely an C Immatured idea"; therefore to add weight to his plea,he endeavours to establish himself under the solemnity of oaths, and attempts to prove, that the machinery for his Steam-engine, was executed in Baltimore and Frederick-town, so as to be compleated and put together on the 1st. of December 1785. These solemn and positive declarations are contained in the depositions of Charles Morrow and Joseph Barns (No. 11 and 12 of his pamphlet) who are probably interested in the scheme, The reader will please to examine these depositions; they are produced to support facts, which he is conscious ought to have existed at the time they specify, otherwise his pretensions would consequently fall. These two witnesses testify to absolute facts, and yet affix different periods of time for one and the same transaction. Page 13. line 14. of Charles Morrow's deposition, he says " About the first of December (1785) it appears to the said Charles that the whole of the machinery was ready to be fixed to the boat which came down to the falls of Shanandoah for experiment; but the ice then commencing prevented it for the winter:" and line 28 of the same deposition he says, " In the spring of 1786, the machinery was put on the boat and the first trial made, said Charles being on board," Page 15, line 11 of Joseph Barns's deposition he says, 6 In December (1785) it was (put on the boat,) at Shanandoah falls,/ These different declarations or different times affixed, at which the machinery was put on the boat, of themselves tend much to destroy the validity of their oaths; for the time the machinery was put on board, must have been a fact, so notorious, that it could not admit of mistake, in a mind properly impressed with the importance of an oath. In page 10 & 11 William Askew swears that Mr. Rumseyes machinery will not weigh more than eight hundred pounds, and that he is well convinced that it may NAVIGATION. 1055 be made for ~20. It is a well known fact that of Mr, Rumsey's machinery, the greatest part, must consist of copper or Brass, such as cylinders, tubes, cocks and valves, together with curious wrought iron; now 800 pounds (were it all made of Iron) could not cost less than double the sum. As this evidence is not brought to prove anything about Mr. Rumsey's priority it is of no importance, and the absurdity it contains might have been spared. Whether his machine or my machine are best, is nothing to the purpose; I have been daily altering, and never watched his motions and blunders, as it is evident he did mine. He it seems made a secret of his doings, whilst mine were open to all -the world. It is proper I should not pass over this part of my work; without acknowledging, that I have been greatly indebted to the assistance of my ingenious friend Mr. Henry Voight of this city: who has uniformly, from my first undertaking to build a boat, afforded me valuable hints; and has united with me in perfecting my plans. To his inventive genius alone, I am indebted for the improvement in our mode of creating steam; a thought which struck him above two years ago, the drawing having been shewn to several persons; for we never made a secret of any part of our works; but a fear of departing from old established plans, made me fearful of adopting it, until I had found by his invention of creating steam, that a condenser might be constructed on the same principles (viz a spiral pipe or worm) only by reversing the agent, for the best way of applying fire to evaporate water into steam, must also be the best way of applying cold water to condense steam) that is the bringing the greatest quantity of fire into action upon the greatest surface of water-or the contrary-And we had an additional inducement to study this subject, because the common way of fixing boilers, required so great a load of brick work, that it over-loaded our boat. Therefore, the first thought that must occur to every man, attempting to raise steam on board a boat, must be to acquire that method which would require the least weight.Since Mr. Rumsey has been in town I have been told, that he says I have got his mode of creating steam whether that be the case or not (or whether he has got mine) I do not at present know. But 1056 EARLY STEAM as both Mr. Rumsey and Mr. Voight laid their drawings and plans before the Philosophical Society the same day, it will appear how far they are alike. And Mr. Voight made a prior entry of his plans in the Prothonotary's office, in this city. If there should happen to be any similarity between them, it would be nothing surprising; having the same load on both their minds, they both sought relief; and, as sick persons, lacking a doctor, chance might have led them to the same man; and I had an undoubted right to apply every medicine that suited the disorder-but I will proceed with the pamphlet.In page 17, Henry Bedinger says, that Mr. James Rumsey informed him in or before the month of March 1784, that he intended to give a trial to a steam-boat, and he believes he mentioned such intention of Mr. Rumsey's in Kentuckey; which seems to have been a breach of honour, as it must be supposed Mr. Rumsey gave it to him in confidence; for he treated his idea of Steam as a secret to Governor Johnson long after; thus on the disclosure of this friend, Mr. Rumsey builds a charge against me as having filched his scheme in Kentuckey; this like his other charges is founded in falsehood, for it is a well known fact, that I have not been in Kentuckey since the year 1781. The depositions of George Rootes, No. 8, and Nicholas Orrick, No. 10, testifying to his having informed them, in the year 1784, of his projecting a steam boat is quite useless for reasons already given. Messrs Henry and Paine projected it before him; and if bare projection was sufficient to build a claim on, I have no doubt but there are people now in their graves, whose heirs might set up more early claims than either of us. If Mr. Rumsey was in 1784, projecting a boat to work by steam, with a view of carrying it into actual execution, why did he not apply for the use of steam in his laws? the reasonis plain-General Washington gives it for him, " it was an immatured idea and on which he thought he did not rely." I must therefore contend that these depositions, lose their weight, and the whole of his conduct proves to a demonstration, that he could not have been engaged in making steam engines at the time mentioned by those witnesses, with a view of applying them to his boat. In page 20, No. 18, he inserts a paragraph of a letter said NAVIGATION. 1057 to have been written by a Mr. Daniel Buckley, near Philadelphia, by which he fixes the time of his applying himself to the "perfecting his steam engine with much ardour," In part of said inserted extract, speaking of me he stiles me,'"4 Mr. Fitch of Philadelphia;" now this letter, if the facts it recites are true, must have been written after the 17th. of April 1786, and not in 1785, as insinuated by Mr Rumsey, for I was not an inhabitant of Philadelphia until after that period; nor did I ever hear that Mr Rumsey was employed in making a steam boat until long after that time; consequently I could not have used any expressions about it until April 1786. This is a very important part of the prevarication, and carrying the air of great plausibility, I must beg my Reader's close attention to it, as I shall prove it to be false. Page 3, he says, " I wrote to General Washington the 10th. March 1785, that I intended applying both powers (meaning steam as one) to build a boat after the model of one he saw at Bath, &c. and as I could gain truth only by successive experiments, incredible delays were produced, &c. I bore the pelting of ignorance and ill-nature with all resignation, until I was informed some dark assassins had endeavoured to wound the reputation of his Excellency, and the other gentlemen, who saw my exhibition at Bath, for giving me a certificate. The reflections upon these worthy gentlemen gave me inexpressible uneasiness, and I should certainly have quitted my steam engines, though in great forwardness, and have produced the boat, for which I had obtained the certificate, for their justification and my own, had not a Mr Fitch came out at this critical minute, with his steam-boat, asserting that he was the first inventor of steam, and that I had gotten what small knowledge I had from him, &c.7 Now this embarrassment being confessedly subsequent to the letter to General Washington, just mentioned, viz. 10th. March, 1785. The letter asserted to have been written by Mr Buckley is incontrovertibly fixed between this date and the 1st. of December following, the time sworn to for compleating of the steam engine; therefore as Mr Rumsey quitted his setting pole scheme and "pursued the perfecting his steam engine with increased ardor (page 3) on the receipt of this letter; it becomes of moment to ascertain its exact date; and I shall show that this letter 67 1058 EARLY STEAM which set Messrs. Rumsey and Barns to work in such haste and with such. increased ardor" was not written until near a year after the time it is pretended, and the copper works said to have been made in 1785 were not begun until 1786-so that this machinery completed so briskly and sworn to have been on board in December 1785 has made a jump of just twelve months, in order to persuade the public into a belief that Mr Rumsey's works were begun time enough to supplant mine.-" At that critical minute" says he "Came out a Mr Fitch asserting I had got what small knowledge I had from him — At what critical minute I ask? Mr Rumsey's third page will tell us-In March 1785 he informed General Washington by letter that he intended applying steam to boats; in December following, Messrs Barns and Morrow swear the boat was ready; and his exhibiting this boat, he confesses was hurried on by the intelligence received from Mr Buckley; consequently this work and this " Encreased ardor" was subsequent to the date of the letter from Mr Buckley. Then if I can fix the time of Mr Buckley's writing the letter, I shall establish a certain fixed period at which Mr Rumsey acknowledges his works were not on board his boat. And I felicitate myself in being able to do it so incontestibly as to prove from his own writings that he has given false dates and assigned false reasons for his movements. He knew at the time of inserting that quibbling account, that it would not bear the light, and therefore did not dare to give the date of Mr Buckley's Letter, wrote at that "Critical minute,>" for Mr Buckley's letter, would have shown this "Critical minute " was not in 1785, when they swear the steam-boat was ready, but in the summer of 3786, full twelve months after I had made my plans public, and:was procuring patterns for my present cylinder, and had made a complete model of a steam-engine in brass and iron.-I have been at the pains of walking 66 miles to Pequa and Lancaster to see Mr Buckley, that I might obtain an additional proof (to the many others I shall produce) that Mr Rumsey has transposed the order of time and antedated facts. Mr Buckley frankly told me all he knew of the matter and fixed the time of writing his letter, so circumstantially, to have been in 1786, and not in 1785, that not a doubt can remain-and it will further appear from the certificate he has given me that the colouring as to fact, as well as to date, has NAVIGATION. 1059 been grossly disingenruous as will be seen on comparing his certificat;e No. 18S, with the following: No,. i1. This may certify that the paragraph that Mr James Rumsey has copied from my letter, which he applies to the injury of Mr John Fitch's character, was not told to me by Mr Fitch, but by other persons, who for reasons were convinced of his priority of invention. And as to the time of writing the letter it was when Mr Samuel Brigs was making patterns for M-r Fitch's castings. As witness my hand this twelfth day of May, 1788. DANIEL BUCKLEY. On my return to Philadelphia Ip applied to, Mr. Brigs in order to ascertain the Time of his making my patterns, and he freely gave me the following certificate: No. 12. This may certify whom it may concern, that in the summer of 1786, I performed some turning work for John Fitch, being patterns for castings for his steam boat, and before that time I made no work for the said John Fitch; That I am acquainted with Daniel Buckley and saw him at my shop during that summer and at sundry times since, and we have frequently conversed about James Rumsey, but the particulars of any conversation with him 1 do not recollect. SAMUEL BRIGGS. Affirmed the 15th. May 1788. that the foregoing is just and true before PLUNKr. FLEESON. Thus, independant of all other proofs, have I brought a conclusive evidence out of Mr. Rumsey's own writings and from his own testimonies, that the steam machinery, sworn to have been board in December, 1785, could not have been ready until December 1786; and here I might safely rest my defence, and very properly quote Mr. PRumsey)s own words (annexed to the certificate No. 18.) viz;; Should he incline to assert hereafter, what credit he will deserve, has been so clearly proved, that future impositions may be avoided, and those who spread a slander they do not believe, deserve the contempt of all honest men." 1060 EARLY STEAM But I will proceed and must not omit remarking, that this third page of his work is very fatal to him. He says "I should certainly have quitted my steam engines (engines only in idca) though in great forwardness, and have produced the boat for which I had obtained the certificate, &c. had not a Mr. Fitch come out at this critical minute with his steam-boat, &c." And further adds, ";Had I exhibited my first boat it would have been construed into an acknowledgement of Mr. Fitch's assertion, by producing a boat with which steam had nothing to do; these considerations compelled me to pursue the perfecting my steam engines with increased ardor." Thus I have a proof from himself, that the certificates from General Washington, &c. (which procured his laws in Virginia, Maryland and Pennsylvania) had no reference to steam consequently my laws for the exclusive use of steam applied to boats, cannot interfere either with his laws, or his expectations at the time of asking for them. I applied to the several legislatures openly and unguardedly without friends and without patrons; and from the pure merit of my pretensions, met with success, without a whisper being breathed, that I was interfering with Mr. Rumsey. I am confident that he never conceived me to be a rival in navigating boats, until he found his own plan hopeless and mine likely to succeed. In his third page he says, "I wrote to General Washington 10th March 1785, that I intended applying both powers to a boat built after the model of the one he saw at Bath; but the disadvantages before mentioned still remained and as I could gain truth only by successive experiments, incredible delays were produced-and though my distresses were greatly increased thereby, &c."- It is truly amazing that though he had long before this letter, been making progress in Steam engines, and gaining truth by successive experiments, and incredible delays, insomuch that at the time of his proposing to get cylinders cast at Governor Johnson's works in October 1785, he had the principal part of his work untouched; I say it is amazing, that these incredible delays should all vanish as in an instant, and that between the time of his failing at Governor Johnson's works in October or November 1785, and the 1st of December following, he should have completed his whole machi NAVIGATION. 1061 nery, ready to be put on board.- A Steam-engine is a complex piece of work, and his subsequent transactions shew that he found it so; for it has taken him from the summer of 1786 (when he removed his works from Frederick-town) to the winter of 1787 to to make them ready for a fair experiment. No person therefore can be brought to believe, that his first machinery could have been conjured together in little more than 30 days. —No such thing happened -I have already sufficient proof to the contrary, and have no doubt but a multitude of corroborating witnesses will voluntarily offer themselves, when this pamphlet gets down to Frederick-town and Shepherds town, where I shall take some pains to have it circulated.- It is truth alone I am in search of. in order to wipe off the imputation from my own character; for as to stability of title to my exclusive rights, I shall not cast away an anxious thought about it.- I am secured by my laws - and my "coadjutors," as Mr. Rumsey is pleased to term them, I am sure have no sort of apprehension about the monies they have risqued; and only wish that I should remove any aspersions that may be unjustly cast upon me -- Thus far it may be said they have an interest in my success, because a law in my favour in Maryland is yet depending. I must not yet quit the subject of Mr. Buckley's letter in his third page, from whence it is plainly to be gathered, that subsequent to his letter of 10th March 1785, to General Washington he meant to tell the world he was busily employed in private experiments on Steam Engines, and that although his first setting pole boat " Bore the pelting of ignorance and ill nature," yet he did not set about making a Steam-engine, for this boat, until (as he calls it) the critical moment when a Mr. Fitch with his Steamengine came out, asserting that he was the first inventor of Steam, and that "d I had gotten what small knowledge I had from him."Now as all his experiments were privately conducted, and he does not pretend to have begun his boat engine, until Mr, Buckley had sent notice that I charged him with stealing knowledge from me; I would ask any man where I was to obtain the grounds for my charge? it could not be until I had begun my own engine, and made it every where public-then it follows that my pretended complaint against him must have been subsequent to my own 1062 EARLY STEAM works and prior to the beginning of his works for his boat in J'ovember (as he calls it) which from his own statement has laid a fair and just foundation for my claim of public priority, for private priority is out of the question, as Mr.. Henry, Mro Ellicott and Mr. Paine'are before us both..Nay even after the real Steam-engine for his boat was actua.lly begun, we find it kept as the most profound secret; and from Charles Morrowls deposition it is declared, the boat came to Sheperds-town early in the fall of 1785; that Mr. Barns went to Baltimore shortly after to have some machinery cast; and on his return from Baltimore was sent to Frederick-town in order to have some other things made (which could not consistently with Governor Johnson's letter be earlier than the beginning of November) and about the middle of November they were all finished viz. a boiler, two cylinders, pumps, pipes,'c.-I confess this is very brisk work for a country town-more than ever I could get in the city of Philadelphia. At Baltimore four large cocks were bespoke by Mr. Barns and the brass founder was told they were for the warm springs of Virginia as will presently appear; Governor Johnson was entrusted with the scheme in confidence, and copper-works were carried on in Frederick-town with great secresy -inasmuch that a citizen hearing it rumoured that they were for a Steam-engine, applied to see them, but was refused (as will be shown) and the matter still remained a secret until, as Governor Johnson says, " The designed purpose of the cylinder was a subject of pretty general conversation in Frederick-town"-Then during this interval of privacy surely any man that should have conceived the same idea and brought it forward to public view, ought to be entitled to the right and advantages of the discovery-for all these confidential persons, as I have already said, might have died and the world have lost the benefit-Let me consider the danger of admitting this new doctrine of claims-A man makes a valuable discovery-he pursues it at a great expense and publishes it to the world -a set of men cornbining together shall afterwards come forth, swear for each other, that they had been making the same kind of engine, many months before, and bring proofs from respectable characters, that they had hinted at the practicability of such a scheme, even before their private experiments. Will any man of the least particle of NAVhIGAION., 1063 understanding allow, that this private work shall be admitted to contain sufficient evidence to overset the public works of a fair and open artist? Surely not-If it was once allowed, men would not be wanting to swear away from the real inventor, the most valuable discoveries in the' world. All they would desire from the public claimant would be, for. him to fix the earliest date to his discovery, and if it was 20 or even 50 years back they would prove that they themselves, their fathers or grandfathers, or some distant friend, had communicated it many years before.There is no end to this kind of proof; and both reason and law unite in defending the first public discoverer. It would be dangerous in the highest degree to deviate from this rule.-If Mr Rumsev did really and in good faith and conscience intend to carry into execution, the secret he communicated to General Washington, I can only say he was unlucky in delaying it so long, as to let me, with my subsequent discoveries, come forward before him; what I did was public-it was notorious to all Virginia and Maryland and not a murmur was raised against me, not a syllable uttered (that ever I heard) charging me with interfering with Mr Rumsey.The Assemblies of Virginia and Maryland encouraged my scheme, and nobody told me I should interfere with him.-My petitions laid long before the Assembly of Virginia, and a law was ultimately passed in my favour, without objection or complaint. Mr Rumsey has insinuated that I got my first thought from Captain Bedinger in Kentucky, who went there in 1784-nay he goes so far in one place, as to say, he " Was told so" and in another that " Circumstances leave little room to doubt it." I have already declared that I have not been in Kentucky since the year 1781: thus falls to the ground this part of his " Plagiarism" allegations-But I will suggest to him, that it is much more probable, that all his determinations of beginning his Steam-engine, might have come to him in a much straighter line, than from Kentucky to me. Captain Bedinger is so uncertain about the matter of his ever having mentioned steam in Kentucky, that he only says, coldly, the he' believes" he also mentioned " that it worked by steam." I will remind Mr. Rumsey, that I not only believe that I presented my plan to Congress, before the time he pretends to have spoken to Governor Johnson about getting cylinders for him, and before his 1064 EARLY STEAM copper works were bespoke, but the files of Congress will prove that in August 1785, I laid my plan before them;and nobody will suppose it was a very indirect road from Congress to each of the United States. A very few days after my plan was laid before them, Mr Rumsey might have been furnished with a copy of it; and if any member of Congress should know of such a transaction (certainly very innocent in itself) he will confer a great obligation on me by communicating it.-But in Philadelphia it was public before it went to Congress, and long before Mr Rumsey's orders went to Frederick-Town or Baltimore. I have a fair right to suppose all these things, and Mr' Rumsey's giving me no opposition in my application for exclusive laws, and even permitting his law to expire in Pennsylvania, without trying to derive any benefit from it, amount to positive proof that he had no serious thoughts about applying steam until it was too late.-I promise him I shall not be so dilatory in exhibiting my boats in Virginia conformably to my law. I trust to the goodness of my cause and the honor and generosity of my country —and that I not only have a substantial right by exclusive laws, but by justice and equity. The affidavits from William Askew, N~. 6, and Henry Bedinger, N~. 7) to prove that Mr Rumsey's boat is much superior to mine, is acknowledging on the part of Mr Rumsey, that his pretensions to the invention are but weakly founded. However faulty my works might be, and however perfect his own, it would have no force in the determination of our title to the invention; but argues a wish in him to gain an advantage on principles different from those on which our dispute must be ultimately decided in the opinion of the world.-But even this position of Mr Rumsey's I will not allow; for on a comparison of the velocity and bulk of both boats and the force applied it is evident that mine exceeded in the proportion of more than two to one. I had a bulk of water to remove equal to above 12 tons, whilst he had to contend with no more than 3 tons, if I am rightly informed; and our cylinders or (moving powers) were nearly, if not quite, equal; yet my boat was urged forward with nearly the same velocity of his boat;therefore hie mode hath hitherto no superiority. As to his drawing water in at the bottom, and pushing it out at the stern of a vessel, it is no new invention, but was long before presented to the NAVIGATION. 1065 Philosophical Society at Philadelphia. The thought came originally from France, of which I was acquainted before he bespoke any of his works for steam, and contended the right of using it with Mr Arthur Donaldson, in the beginning of 1786, belfore the Assembly of Pennsylvania, as he attempted at that time, to assume the discovery to himself. N~. 13. I well remember when Mr Arthur Donaldson proposed before the Committee of Assembly, a method of navigating boats by a stream of water forced through by means of a steam engine; that you appeared to be acquainted with the principle, which was said to be originally Dr Franklin's, and that you then declared it had been your intention to have made an experiment upon it. GEO. CLYMER. Mr John Fitch May 17, 1788. In spite of all opposition I was left in full possession of that or any other way I chose, provided I worked by steam, and no man can take it from me until my laws expire. I conceive we have by no means come to the greatest perfection of applying our power. I am now trying an experiment, and the machine is nearly finished, to propel a boat not by expelling water, but air, and hope Mr Rumsey will allow that this is a mode peculiar to myself; but if he pleases he will deny it and assert that he had privately tried some experiments to ascertain its practicability-I further hope that the public will make great allowances for my not being more forward in my plans, especially when they consider the great difficulty of procuring proper workmen, together with the new and unexplored grounds that I had to travel over, but hope shortly that I shall have it so perfect as to give full satisfaction of its utility. In page 5, he asserts, that my boat will not be propelled at the rate of more than three miles an hour when no tide opposes; this assertion, I believe, will shortly be proved both rash and envious; I can make her go not only three but three times three. But as I have before mentioned, this is taking up the dispute upon different principles, than those Mr Rumsey found necessary to hold up to public view, viz. That he was the inventor of the steam boat.-This leads me to consider the principles on which 1066 EARLY STRAM exclusive privilegesare founded, agreeably to justice and policy. If we have recourse to the enlightened nations of Europe, and more especially to England, whose laws respecting the title to property are (with little and in some cases with no variation) in force amongst us, we shall find that their laws imply that no species of property ought to be held more sacred than the property of inventions; for having their origin in the imagination of. man, uncertain in their operations, and expensively perplexing in experiment, it becomes necessary to have some mode established to secure to the owner the full benefit of his invention, which might otherwise prove his ruin. To prevent which, justice and good policy have pointed out a remedy, and custom has established it on a permanent basis. -The inventor can claim no benefit from his thoughts or inventions, before he makes a public declaration of such invention in some place of record established for such purposes,-that is-he who invented and published a Steam-engine will have an exclusive right for a certain number of years for all steam engines; at the expiration of which, each improver has an undoubted right to the benefit of any improvement. On these principles he who first invented and published the idea of a steam-boat, invests himself with a fair and just title to all steam-boats for a certain time, which in justice and policy government is bound to support.-The state of Pennsylvania hath given her sentiments on this head, and hath declared such to have been her explanation of the title to inventions by rejecting Mr Arthur Donaldson's petition to have me confined to a certain mode of applying my power. It was not the mode of Using theforce of steam which had any merit in this invention; but it was the idea of connecting steam with navigation, that justly claimed the public patronage as soon as that idea was made public: and the benefit of it applied for. I shall now introduce the proofs I have promised, and show to the world what degree of credit and countenance ought to be given to a man, who in order to deprive me of my just rights, has brought forward evidences to swear to facts which are totally false —You will see that transactions are ante dated and a deception intended, with a view both of disgracing and robbing me —Confident that gross misrepresentations had been made use of, I was at the expense and trouble of two journeys to Frederick-town in Maryland, the NATIGATION. 1067 scene of his operations, and there I was soo on confirmed in my suspicions that this plausible pamphlet was built on a falsehood, and that the patrons whom Mr Rumseyes address has procured him in this city, have committed themselves too unreservedly to a stranger. I now find the reason of his so long delaying to put in his claim-it was that a period might elapse sufficient for memory to be uncertain, and for facts to be transposed in the order of time; the death of one of his principal workmen also rendered it probable that some of his pretended proofs might be difficult to detect. A love of justice has induced a number of persons to step forward and testify in the most unequivocal manner that the works sworn by Mr Rumsey's evidences to have been finished the first December, 1785, were not begun until March following, when he must have been very fully possessed of a knowledge of my pretensions. The ten following certificates will fully prove the antedating. No. 14. The affidavit of Frederick Tombough, Smith and partner of Mr Zimmer, the Copper-smith of Frederick-Town who made the copper work for Mr Rumsey's steam-boat. Maryland, Frederick County, April 18th. 1788. Then appeared before the'subscriber, a justice for said state, & county, Frederick Tombough aged about thirty-nine years, who being sworn en the holy Evangelists of Almighty God, deposeili and sayeth, that some time in March 1786, he, this deponent was in partnership with Mathias Zimmers, now deceased, in a blacksmith's shop, adjoining said Zimmers' coppersmith shop-and that he remembers two copper pipes being brought into his shop by said Zimmers to fit the seams-which pipes he was told were for Mr Rumseyes Steam. boat-and further that lie knew of no work being done in M1r Zimmers' shop on account of said boat previous to the time above mentioned. Sworn before 0GEORGE SCOTT,, N0*:15. The certificate of. Zme wi of M s ZimZ'ers, which is corroborated, and the time established, by the next certificate: 1068 EARLY STEAM This may certify, that I the subscriber,.wife to the late Mathias Zimmers, deceased, have no accounts inmy books so as to ascertain the time of Mr Rumsey's bespeaking his machinery for his Steamboat, or as to the time of his taking it away-but that Michael Baltzel turned works to finish the first machinery said Rumsey had of my husband according to the best of my knowledge.-As witness my hand, this 29th, April 1788. ELIZABETH ZIMMERS. N~. 16. The certificate of Michael Baltzel, Turner, which establishes the time of Mrs Zimmers' fact. Frederick-town, 17th. J.pril, 1788. This may certify that I the subscriber turned works for Mr James Rumsey of Virginia, for his Steam boat viz. a round piece of wood about eight inches diameter and about four feet long, &c. to round his copper works upon-said turning was done in March 1786. As witness my hand MICHAEL BALTZEL. No. 17. The certificate of Mr Jonathan Morris, inn-keeper, which confirms the assertion of Governor Johnson's letter, that the " Designed purpose of the cylinders was a subject of pretty general conversation" in Frederick-town, and therefore had it been prior to my petition to the assembly of Maryland the middle of December, 1785, Mr Foy, the member of assembly resident in that town must have known it, and the house have received information from him, when probably they might have assigned other reasons for rejecting my petition than mere bareness of finances. If all the machinery was ready to put on board, as Mr Morrow swears, on the first December, it must have been a fact notorious to the whole town; but the following declaration shows that so far from being on board in December, 1785, it was shut up as a secret even so late as the latter end of March following; so that this "pretty general conversation, 5 which Governor Johnson speaks of, could not have happened until about this time, and all the evidences I produce confirm my assertion, that Mr Rumsey did not begin his steam NAVIGATION. 1069 engine, until I had published my plan all through Maryland and Virginia.-The certificate is as follows Frederick-town, 18th. April 1788. This may certify that I the subscriber was towards the latter end of March 1786, informed that Mr. Matthias Zimmers had begun some machinery for Mr. Rumsey's Steam-boat. Accordingly I called on Mr. Zimmers to see it, but was refused the sight of it, as it was then retained as Mr. Rumsey's secret-but was informed that it was begun in the beginning of the same month, this I declare to be the truth as near as I can recollect-As witness my hand. JONATHAN MORRIS. No. 18. The deposition of John Peters, who performed such parts of Mr. Rumsey's machinery as were made of tin. Frederick County, Maryland, Appril 18th. 1788. I the subscriber was a journeyman and worked for Mr. Matthias Zimmers-and began to work in the tin business, at the same time Mr. Zimmers did begin the copper works for Mr. James Rumsey, of Virginia, for his Steamboat, which said coppers and tin works were begun in March, in the year 1786. JOHN PETERS. Sworn before me, JACOB YOUNG, one of the justices for Frederick county, Maryland. No. 19. The deposition of John Frymiller who was apprentice to Mr. Zimmers at the time he made the copper works for the steam engine, shewing not only that the works were begun and finished in a shop next to Mr Tombough; but that no part of said machinery was begun before the spring, 1786. State of Maryland, Baltimore County, On this twenty-sixth day of April, in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and eighty eight, before me the subscriber one of the justices of the peace for the county aforesaid, personally appeared John Frymiller of Baltimore town in said county, and made oath on the holy Evangelists of Almighty God, that during the time he was an apprentice to the late Mr. Matthias Zimmers 1070 EABILY STEAM of Frederick-town in- Frederick county, and state aforesaid, deceased, when he the said Matthias Zimmers made Mr. James Rumsey's machinery for the Steam-boat-That he, this deponent, did work at the said James Rumsey's machinery-That it was begun in the spring of the year 1786, and that no part of said machinery was begun before the time above mentioned by the said Zimmers, to the best of his knowledge —and further that the said machinery was begun and finished in a shop adjoining Frederick Tomboughls smith-shop (which said Tombough was, as the deponent has been informed, in partnership in the smith's business at said time with said Zimmers) in which said Matthias Zimmers had his copper-smith's fires for brazing &c. and further this deponent saith not. Sworn before me JOHN MOALE. The following certificate proves that Mr. Rumseyes machinery was made by Mr. Zimmers, in Frederick Town in the spring of 1786, their being but two Copper-smiths in Frederick Town, viz. Messrs. Matthias Zimmers and Joshua Minshall, the certifier. N~. 20. This may certify, that I the subscriber, copper-smith have resided in this town about three years, during which time there has no copper-smiths resided in the town except Mr. Matthias Zimmers and myself and that I was knowing to Mr. Zimmers making copper works for Mr. Rumseyes Steam boat, and am of opinion it was late in the spring or summer before said Rumsey took said works from Mr. Zimmers in the year 1786. As witness my hand, 29th. April 1788, at Frederick-town, Maryland. JOSHUA MINSHALL. The foregoing testimonies I presume, will carry full conviction that Mr. Rumsey has shifted his dates, and has got two of his workmen to swear to it-for Messrs. Barns and Morrow, if they had consulted their accounts, must have found that they had made a lapse of a whole year at least, and that the December, 1785, which they speak of must have been December, 1786.-The circumstance of being stopped by the ice proves it to have been in the winter, and therefore must inevitably have been in the winter NATV:GAT'ION, 1073 of 1786o But this was too late a date to serve their purpose of supplanting my claims and just rights, which I mean to maintain under the laws I have already obtained and have no doubt of succeeding in my applications to the other assemblies when they come to see my proofs and MI. Rumsey's false datings. He has mentioned the obtaining part of his works from Baltimore, where I can also shew he has used the same want of candor, and it will confirm the proofs from Frederick Town. It appears the four large cocks for his steam pipes and works, were bespoke of Christopher Raborg, in Baltimore, by Mr'. Barns, who the, better to conceal the 1 designed purpose of the cylinders,:5 told him they were for the warm springs in Virginia,-perhaps a little mental reservation might cover this deviation from fact.But Mr. Raborg had no account thereof and could not give the time with precission-though he believes they were made in the fall of 1785;-the certificates, No. 20 and 21,which follow, prove that the time was certainly in the spring 1786. As these certificates appear to refer only to cocks made for the warm springs, I had considerable doubts about admitting them into my defence; because Mr. Rumsey on finding that I proved them to be made in March, 1786, might (if he pleased) adhere to Mr. Barn's declaration of their being made for the warm springs and not for the steamboat: But I am now happy in having a confirmation under Mr. Rumsey's own hand, published in Mr'. Oswald's paper of the tenth instant, where he informs the public, " Mr. Raborg was the person who undertook to make cocks for my steam boat, and by him I shall prove that they were finished at the time he mentioned to M". Fitch, viz. the fall of 1785." Christopher Raborg's certificate is as follows: N~. 21. This may certify, that Mr. Joseph Barns did bespeak of me four brass cocks, which he said were for the warm springs;-that being disappointed by my journeyman, I got them made by Mr. Charles Weir & Co.-said cocks I do believe were made in the fall of 1785, but have no charge made of them to ascertain the time with precision-this I assert, as witness my hand, at Baltimore this 26th day of April 1788. CHRIST. RABORG. 1072 EARLY STEA No" 22. The certificate of Charles Wier, who speaks with tolerable certainty of the works being made in the spring of 1786. This may certify, that when I was in partnership with Isaac Causten, I made four brass cocks for Mr. Christopher Raborg, for which I received the Money and charged myself with it-that my books are destroyed and I cannot exactly recollect the time of their being made, but am persuaded it was early in the spring in the year 1786 - this further may certify, that I never made the exact number of four cocks for said Raborg, except only that one time. As witness my hand, at Baltimore, 26th. day of April 1788. CHARLES WIER. N~. 23. The certificate of Isaac Causten, who ascertains upon good grounds that the said work was done and. charged on the 29th. March 1786. This may certify, that I the subscriber with my partner Charles Weir, made four brass cocks for Mr. Christopher Raborg, and charged them on the partnership account - said book has since been destroyed, but from some loose papers I found charged to Mr. Raborg on the company's account, on the 29th March 1786, four brass cocks, which with other accounts I have drawn out into my day book. Neither have I made the exact number of four cocks for him at any other time. In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand this 26th. day of April 1788. ISAAC CAUSTEN. The reader will doubtless, on an examination of two pamphlets perceive things in their true light, and that Mr. Rumsey made no pretence to use steam till after the failure of his boat on the principles exhibited at Bath, after I had invested myself with an undoubted title by exhibiting the invention to Congress in August, 1785, and had published it to the states of Virginia and Maryland) who became virtually bound to secure me the right. Mr. Rumsey prosecuting his works in secret, and appearing at this late day with antedated facts is a full proof that he had no claim to the invention, nor is there any one principle of law or equity, on which NAVIGATION. 1073 he can found his pretensions. If he claims it on his thought Mr. Paine, Mr. Henry and M'r. Andrew Ellicott are long before him; if on forming drafts without communicating them to the public, he must acknowledge Mr. Henry7s priority; but if it is to be decided, as it certainly must, by the established mode of public declaration on record, my title is indisputable. Being, therefore, certain of the stability of my claim, founded on the modes established in justice and policy, I have not a doubt but my country will secure and protect the right she has so deliberately granted to me. Under this securityI embarked my time, my fortune, and reputation, and thus embarked, I am certain I have nothing to fear; but shall depend with full confidence on a continuance'of that justice which is due to the rights of the citizen, and the honor of my country. JOHN FITCH. Philadelphia, 10th. JMfay, 1788. MS. JVote.-Philadelphia December 12th. 88. N. B. the publication of James-Rumsey alluded to in my preface, is not annexed as it is expected his friends will send them forward. I am preparing a full confutation, as I believe, to the pretensions of said Rumsey to the steam-boat, or boiler, which will shortly be published, until when I apprehend nothing will be done by any legislature to my prejudice. Jno~ Fitch. POSTSCRIPT. Since this Pamphlet went to press a second edition of Mr. Rumsey's has been printed in this city, in which a short advertisement is prefixed and an extract of his own letter to General Washington which are as follow: gD VElR TISEME]NVT. The following pages are taken from a pamphlet published in Virginia, to prove the author's prior right of applying steam, to propel'boats, &c. as well as to establish the principles on which he has done it, a few copies were then thought sufficient for that [vOL. II.] 68 1074 EARLY STEAM purpose, but as M[r Fitch intends to answer the pamphlet, it is therefore necessary to republish as much of it as respects Mr Fitch, which is done with no other variation, from the original, than to correct a few of the omissions and mistakes that were introduced into the first publication, from the hurry in which it was done, (as the author at the time could not attend the press) and was circulated with an apology annexed to the postscript, for the imperfection of the impressions; of these corrections, perhaps Mr Fitch may take some notice, if he should, such part of the old pamphlet shall be reprinted (verbatim) to convince the Public that the subject has not been varied; but a little better explained. The sophistry in Mr Fitch's reply (should it contain what he informs me it does) is evidently calculated to make impressions, unfavourable of me, on the Public mind, and to wound the reputation of several respectable characters, I must therefore beg the Public's indulgence, to suspend their opinion for a few weeks, when I shall have it in my power to lay before them such additional statement of facts, supported by such respectable testimony, as will incontestibly prove the unjustifiable steps Mr Fitch has taken, to deprive the author of his discoveries, and to injure the reputation of sundry gentlemen. No. 19 is added to this publication; it is part of a letter wrote by the editor to his excellency General Washington, dated the 10th. of March 1785, which will show that the editor had fixed on a method of applying steam to propel a boat before Mr Fitch knew (from his own account of the matter) that steam had ever been made use of for any purpose whatever; how then is it possible he should have the prior right to this discovery? if it is asked who made the most promising experiment? it would be found that my experiments two years since exceed the best he has ever made; must I then be deprived of my discoveries, which are substantial, because I endeavored to keep them secret until perfected? justice will never suffer it, I therefore with the greatest confidence look up to my countrymen for their support according to the merits of my cause, and have the honor of subscribing myself their most devoted humble servant JAMES RUMSEY. Philadelphia, May 7, 1788. NAVIGATION. 10I7 As to his advertisement I have fully proved that he made no experiment on his boat with Steam two years ago, his machinery being at that time in Frederick-town-And his boat so far exceeding mine will also appear a wrong assertion as the greatest distance he pretends to have propelled his small boat per hour is four miles, and that appears to be mere ideal estimation. In my boat, by the same force applied, I let out three miles and a quarter per hourby the log line. This is departing from the merits of the dispute, but to convince the public of his assertion on this head being absurd, I shall introduce certificates N~. 24, 25, 26. As to his request of suspending the public opinion, I rest my cause on solid and fair conclusions drawn from his pamphlet, a very safe and candid judgment may be formed of the merits of Mr. Rumsey's pretentions, it being evident that all his false assertions and false datings will never prove that two and two are not four. No. 24. These may certify, that the subscriber has frequently seen Mr. Fitch's Steam boat, which with great labour and perseverance he has at length compleated and has likewise been on board when the boat was worked against both wind and tide, with a very considerable degree of velocity by the force of Steam only. Mr. Fitch's merit in constructing a good Steam-engine and applying it to so useful a purpose will no doubt meet with the encouragement he so justly deserves from the generosity of his countrymen, especially those who wish to promote every improvement of the useful arts in America. DAVID RITTENHOUSE. Philadelphia, Decr. 12th, 1787. No. 25. Having also seen the boat urged by the force of Steam and having been on board of it when in motion, I concur in the above opinion of Mr. Fitch's merits. JOHN EWING. No. 26. From the well known force of Steam. I was one of the first of those who encouraged M". Fitch to reduce his theory of a Steam 1076 EARLY STEAM boat to practice, in which he has succeeded far beyond my expectations. I am now fully of opinion that Steam-boats may be made to answer valuable purposes in facilitating the internal navigation of the United States, and that Mr. Fitch has great merit in applying a Steam-engine to so valuable a purpose and entitled to every encouragement from his country and countrymen. ANDREW ELLICOTT, Ph/iladelphia, December 13th 1787. Copy of Mr. Rumsey's Extract JVo. 19. The following is part of a letter, wrote by the editor, to his Excellency General Washington, dated the 10th. of March 1785S After mentioning that kind of machine for propelling boats -which the General had seen a model of, I proceed to say-" I have taken the greatest pains to perfect another kind of boat, upon the principles I mentioned to you at Richmond in November last, and have the pleasure to inform you that I have brought it to great perfection; it is true, it will cost something more than the other way, but, when in use, will be more manageable, and can be worked with as few hands; the power is immense-and I have quite convinced myself that boats of passage may be made to go against the current of the Mississippi or Ohio rivers, or in the Gulf Stream (from the Leeward to the Windward-Islands) from sixty to one hundred miles per day. I know this will appear strange and improbable to many persons, yet I am very certain it imay be performed, besides, it is simple (when understood) and is also strictly Philosophical. The principles of this boat I am very cautious not to explain, as it would be easily executed by an ingenious person. The plan I mean to pursue, is to put both the machines on board of boats* built on a large scale, and then, Sir, if you would be kind enough to see them make actual performances, I should not doubt but the assemblies would allow me something handsome, which would be more advantageous to the public than to give me the exclusive right of using them." * There were two boats connected, in the Model I exhibited at Bath in September 1787, which is the reason I speak of boats in the plural, as experiment had convinced me that a single boat would not succeed on that principle. NAVIGATION. 1077 As to the extract of his letter to General Washington of the tenth of March 1785, it is nothing more than a declaration that he intended something; —that even if it was steam he meant to make use of, it was a profound secret which he was then cautious not to explain. But let us take a view of this letter and I have no doubt but from the very wording of it, it will very clearly appear, that the utility of steam (if that was what he meant to convey) was with him at that time very doubtful and upon which he could have no kind of dependance: and holding up the idea of secresy so punctually, lest some artist, more ingenious than himself, should compleat a steam boat before him shews indubitably that he conceived it as an agent at a great distance from him and upon which he had no reliance or from which the public could then expect no advantage, and indeed I am confident that his ideas of a steam engine, (if any he had, which I much doubt) were very inferior to Messrs. Henry's, Ellicotts, Paine's &c. in the year 1778. but as no publication to the world took place by them, they are candid enough not to claim it as an invention of theirs. But should I even go so far as to admit he had thoughts of applying steam, and that he intended exhibiting a steam-boat to General Washington, it was nothing more than an invention he held in secret, on the 10th. of March 1785, and even by hisldeclarations to Governor Johnson, if they were as early as October or November, 1785, he kept it then a secret-nothing was imparted to the Public, therefore nothing due from them. I had long before declared my intentions through Congress, and thereby invested myself with the indisputable title to my invention throughout the United States. Maryland and Virginia had virtually'pledged the honor of their states to secure me in this right.-Virginia has since supported that honor by cheerfully passing a law for that purpose, and Maryland I doubt not, as also other of the United States, will pay equal regard to justice and policy. N. B. As the application of steam to vessels will undoubtedly claim the early attention of the world, as the least expensive and safest mode of navigation,-I doubt not but the impartial public will yet, with pleasure, secure me in those rights, for which security, had I applied on the first exhibition of my scheme, would have been granted without murmur or delay; but as a confidence 1078 EARLY STEAM in the honor of my country, and a want of finance, were then the preventatives, the delay certainly will not now operate against me; as the utility of the invention more clearly appears, and thereby the attention of my country more reasonably claimed. The following certificates were omitted in their proper places. No. 1 I do certify that I was returning with John Fitch from Neshamany meeting some time in April, 1785, as near as I can recollect the time, when a gentleman and his wife passed by us in a riding chair; he immediately grew inattentive to what I said. Some time after he informed me that at that instant the first idea of a steam-boat struck his mind. JAMES OGILBEE No. 2 JIn extract of a letter from James Scout. You are desirous of knowing from me when the first thought of a steam boat came in your head; this I cannot tell, but this you told me, that in the month of April, 1785, you was travelling down Street road in company Mr James Ogilbee and Mr Sinton passing you on Street road, that then the first thought occurred to you of a Steam-boat, and the month of May or June following you shewed me a plan of your machine on paper, this truth I shall seek no further testimony to support; tis too generally known; let them that doubt it come and hear more from Your humble Servant, Jipril 15th. 1788. JAMES SCOUT No. 5 This is to certify, that Mr John Fitch called upon William Henry, Esquire, my late husband in his life time, about two years and a half since, when Mr Fitch shewed to him drafts and a model of a machine how to propel a boat through the water; And further, that I have frequently heard Mr Henry applying steam as a mean to urge boats through the waterby force of it, and that he had proposed laying a model of a machine, for that purpose, before the Philosophical Society long before Mr1 Fitch called upon him. Witness my hand, this 12th. day of May, 1788. Test. ANN HENRY. JNO. J3 0. HENRY. FI IS. NAVIGATION. 1079 [N: Y. Assembly Papers.] Philadelphia October 18th 1788 No a We whose names are hereunto subscribed do certify that we have been in John Fitch's Steam Boat of 60 feet in length in the River Delaware when the said boat was propelled through the water with a considerable degree of velocity regularly & uniformly without any manual Labor, by the force of Steam and We are Clearly of opinion that the Rivers of America may be navigated by the means of Steam Boats and that the present Boat would be very useful on the Western waters. John Ewing James Huchenson Robt Patterson T. Y. Matlack Andrew Ellicott Chass Pettit John Smilie J. B. Smith David Redick Davd Rittenhouse No 2 This may Certify that on the twelfth instant we the Subscribers went in Mr John Fitch's Steam Boat, from this city to the city of Burlington twenty miles in the space of three hours and ten minutes, there being upwards of thirty passengers on Board, and that said Boat was propelled thro' the water entirely by the force of Steam; and from our own observations we are of opinion that the discovery which Mr Fitch has made may be of much service to inland Navigation. John Poor Philadelphia Octr. 18th. 1788 John Ely. No. 3. On the 16th. Instt, I was on board Mr. Fitch's Steam Boat in the River Delawar saw it perform, and I do Certify that it was impelled by the force of steam at the rate of at least four miles an hour against the strength of tide and am fully convinced the force applied to that boat, would be sufficient to carry it against the most rapid waters, between the mouth of French Creek on the Allegany & the Mouth of Muskingum on the Ohio, and that on an 1080 EARLY STEAM average it would carry it between Three and four miles an hour on any of the Western Waters. Jona. Heart Capt, Philadelphia 18th. Octr. 1788. 1 U. S. Regt. No. 4. This may certify that I the Subscriber was one of the Committee appointed in March 1786 by the General Assembly of this state, on the petitions of John Fitch and Arthur Donaldson respecting their several schemes for the Improvement of navigation by means of Steam Engines, When Mr. Donaldson produced his plan to the Committee for drawing Water in at, or near the iBottom and forcing it out abaft as a means of propelling a Vessel forward. The Committee having fully heard the'petitioners and afterwards viewed Mr. Fitch's model of an invention for moving a boat by means of a Steam Engine, agreed to make a report to the House in his favour. James Irvine. Philadelphia Augt 7th 1788 no. 5. Mr Fitch in his explanation of this draft, to me, before he presented it to the Philosophical Society, mentioned that his intention of conveying the waters from his forcing pump in a Tube that passed thro' the fire, was that it might thereby be set a boiling before it entered in the receiver, lest the cold water mixing with the boiling water in the receiver should impede the generation of the SteamIndorsed John Ewing Presented to the Society Sept. 27th 1785 R Patterson Sec'y No. 6. I William Cavenagh notary and Tabellion public in and for the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania by Lawful Authority duly admitted NAVIGATION. 1081 and sworn dwelling in the City of Philladelphia in the said Commonwealth Do hereby Certify and attest unto all whom it doth or may Concern That the aforegoing writings from No 1, to 6 Do Contain just and true Copies of Original Certificates to me the said notary bona fide produced by John Fitch in the said Certificates named, and that I have Carefully Compared the said Copies with their respective Originals and do find them exactly to agree with each other. And I do hereby further Certify that the several Gentlemen who have signed and Subscribed their names to the said Certificates now are, or heretofore have been in the posts, Trusts or employments hereinafter following their respective names vizt John Ewing Provost of the University and vice president of the Philosophical Society.Robert Patterson professor of Mathamatics and natural Philosophy-and one of the Secretaries of the Philosophical Society. Andrew Ellicott professor of Mathamaticks and Astronomy in the Episcopal Accad'yJohn Smilee (present) member of the Honrble the supreme Executive Council for the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, David Redick, Vice President of the S. E. Council aforesaid. James Hutchinson one of the Secretaries, of the philosophical Society. Timothy Matlack (late) Secretary to the S. E. Council aforesaid Charles Petet (late) member of Congress for the Commonwealth aforesaid. Jonathan Bayard Smith (late) prothonotary of the Court of Common pleas for the City & County of Philadelphia. David Rittenhouse Treasurer for the Commonwealth aforesaid. John Poor, Teacher of the young Ladies Accd'yJohn Ely, Teacher of Arch Street SchoolJonathan Heart Captain of the first United States, Regt In Testimony whereof I the said notary have hereunto set my hand affixed my seal of Office of notary at Philadelphia aforesaid the twelfth day of December in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and Eighty eight Wm Cavenough, Notary Public &c 1788. 1082 EARLY STEAM To the Honorable the Representatives for the Commonwealth of Pensylvania The petition of John Fitch of the city of Philadelphia humbly Sheweth That he hath this morning seen with surprise in the public papers, that a petition has been presented to your honorable body by James Rumsey praying you to grant him an exclusive right to the use of Steam boats, the very right which by special Act of Assembly passed the 28th of March 1787, is vested in your petitioner, who is confident he need do no more than remind the Honorable House that such a law exists, when he conceives it will be even unnecessary to pray that you will not grant that to another which has already been granted to him-Justice, Honor and dangerous president forbid the depriving an honest citizen of the fruits of his dear earned labour and to whom the faith of the government has been so solemnly pledged-the very attempt to draw the House into such a measure, is your petitioner conceives offering them the greatest indignity- Your petitioner's property in the exclusive right to all Steam boats in the State of Pennsylvania is as firmly established in him as the right of any man in the state to his House or his Farm he therefore trusts that Honor of the House to protect him from so cruelly an intended injury-and your petitioner as in duty bound shall ever pray. JOHN FITCH. Philada September 6th 1788. A true copy from the original read September 6. 1788. J. SHALLUS Asst. Clk. of the General Assembly. To the Honorable the House of Representatives of the Freemen of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania The petition of Henry Voight of the city of Philadelphia, humbly sheweth That your petitioner has longed turned his attention to improvements in mechanics and he presumes was not an unuseful Citizen during the war as his various manufacturing machines will evince Since the building of Mr Fitch's Steam boat your petitioner has been much consulted, employed and part interested in its completion. That during the many experiments and consultations about NAVIGATION. 1083 the best mode of constructing an engine on board a boat your petitioner foresaw the great inconvenience of the usual mode of boiling water and amongst a number of other projects your petitioner conceived that water might be boiled in a pipe, a drawing of which he made in the spring of 1786 and in June showed it to Timothy Matlack Esqr & Mr John Nacarrow both of them Gentlemen of great mechanical knowledge from whom he hath obtained Certificates but Mr Fitch was advised not to go out of the old way. The attempt therefore first made on the Steam boat was with the accustomed heavy boiler which so loaded the boat that Mr. Fitch determined to take it out and introduce a boiler more suited to the purpose accordingly preparations were mede for a Pipe boiler which is now executed and the boat working with it exactly on the principles and form exhibited to Mr Matlack and Mr Nacarrow-Your petitioner hearing that a Mr Rumsey was to come to town and that he pretended to the exclusive right to a Pipe boiler your petitioner made an entry of his said boiler with the Prothonotary of the Court of Common Pleas of the city of Philadelphia being told the copy tights of books were there entered and he conjectured such entry in a public office might secure to him in Pennsylvania the exclusive right to the same as death in such case would not deprive the public of the discovery. Your petitioner thereforehumbly prays your honorable House will be pleased to grant to him and his Heirs the exclusive right to the emoluments of the same for the term of fourteen years or such term as the honorable House may think it deserves-and your petitioner as in duty bound &c, Phiiada. September 6th. 1788 Henry Voight. A true Copy from the Original J Shallus Asst Clk of the Genl. Assembly. The committee to whom was referred the petition of James Rumsey, John Fitch and Henry Voight beg leave to ReportThat having examined the said petitions and with great attention heard the Parties in support of their Respective claims are unanimously of opinion that the law which grants to John Fitch an exclusive Right to all Boats propelled by Fire and Steam, hathnot only secured unto him his Heirs &c. the exclusive right to, the 1084 EARLY STEAM method he had then invented for the purpose of applying the powers of Fire or Steam in order to propel Boats, but also whatsoever improvements he may make himself or obtain from others during the time limited by said Law. And however improper so extensive a Law may be in its principles yet considering that upon a faith of the said Law several Citizens have spent much labour and money for which they are not yet reimbursed-and notwithstanding the Legislature may have a right to Repeal Laws which convey grants that are highly injurious to the General Welfare yet the resuming such Legislative grants ought never to be done unless upon the most pressing necessity. Your Committee therefore beg leave to offer the following resolutions, viz. Resolved that the prayer of the petition of James Rumsey be granted, excepting so far as it respects the propelling of Boats by the force of Fire or Steam. Rcsolved that the prayer of the petition of Henry Voight cannot be granted. The above is a true Copy of the original report remaining on the files of the General Assembly. J. Shallus Asst Clerk. Philadelphia 13th, December 1788. Honoured Sir: As it is so very inconvenient for me to attend your Assembly this Session to answer the repeated vexatious Claims of James Rumsey I have taken the Liberty to enclose to you a petition to your Honorable House, several Certificates, a Pamphlet, a Report of the Committee of Pennsylvania &c. all which I pray you to lay before your Honorable House. There is one part of the pamphlet which may require a little explaining as they hinge much and their whole dependance of the Pipe Boiler rests on it where speaking of Mr. Voight and the Pipe Boiler Page 14 I say that I am indebted to him alone for the improvement yet it cannot be denied but I laid a Drawing of a Pipe Boiler before the Philosophical Society many months before he pretends to have [done so] therefore I hope your House will not [conceive his words] to convey more than the very expression itself [and that they] may not be construed instead NAVIGATION. 1085 of an improvement that they shall convey the Idea that I am indebted to him for the invention. I am hardly let in a belief that your Honorable House will take up his Petition but refer it over to Congress, yet should they do it, I pray that I may be notified of it. I also pray you Sir as soon as this shall come to hand to let me have information by Post otherwise for fear of miscarriage in a reasonable time I shall have to be at the expense and trouble of forwarding another Package to you which will ever lay me under the obligation of subscribing myself your most devoted much obliged and very humble Servant JoHN FITcH. To the Honourable the Speaker of the Assembly of New York. Endorsed, 1789 John Fitch Papers and certificates relative to his steam Boat. Addressed, Hor'ble Speaker of the General Assembly of the State of New York at Albany. This may certify that I have been made acquainted with Mr. John Fitch's plan of Propelling vessels thro' the water by the force of steam and if it should answer in practice as well as in theory I am of opinion that it promises success and deserves the notice of the Legislature. Christopher Colles. New-York February 22d. 1787. 1086 EARLY STEAM State of Pennsylvania In General Assembly Friday September 8th. 1786 A. M. The report read September 6 on the petition of John Fitch was read the second time as follows. viz. The committee on the petition of John Fitch, report That they have received his model of an invention for moving a boat by means of a steam-engine, of which they entertain a favorable opinion. That the said Fitch represents to the committee, that he has begun a boat for navigating on the river Delaware; but which from the narrowness of his funds he shall not be able to compleat without some public assistance. The committee conceiving the design, if executed will be of considerable public utility recommend the following resolution: Resolved that a committee be appointed to bring in a Bill to authorise the supreme executive council to direct payment of John Fitch's drafts to any amount not exceeding in the whole the sum of one hundred and fifty pounds, on proof made to them that the money so drawn for has been applied to the purpose of compleating his steam-boat, they taking his security for repayment thereof in twelve months. And on the question will the house adopt the same report? It was carried in the negative Extract from the minutes J. Shallus Asst Clerk. Your Committee on the Petition of John Fitch report, That they have viewed his boat, which he proposes to propel against the Stream by the agency of Steam, and altho' the apparatus necessary to the same is not yet so compleat as to afford demonstration, yet your committee entertain no doubt of a full and effectual Completion thereof. In order therefore to encourage a further improvement in so useful an Art propose the following resolution. RESOLVED, That the petitioner have leave to bring in a Bill agreeably to the prayer of his petition. The above is a true copy of the original remaining on the files NAVIGATION. 1087 of the General Assembly and whereupon the Resolution of the House of the sixteenth of November last was founded, Philadelphia February 20th, 1787. J. Shallus Asst Clerk, of the Genl Assembly. The Committee to whom was referred the petition of John Fitch of Bucks county in Pennsylvania Report That having examined the certificates and other papers presented to your Committee by the said John Fitch, they are of Opinion that in order to encourage a further Improvement in so useful an Art; a Bill be brought in for the purpose of granting to the said John Fitch an exclusive right of Navigating boats by the force of Steam or Fire for a certain time, agreeable to the prayer of his petition. To the honorable the Legislature of the state of New-York in Senate and Assembly convened. The petition of John Fitch of Bucks county in the state of Pensylvania humbly sheweth. That your petitioner has lately invented a method of propelling vessels through the water by the force of steam which he flatters himself is reduced to a moral certainty and will be a very great improvement on navigation and that he has a boat nearly completed to navigate on the river Delaware by the agency thereof. That the states of New Jersey and Delaware have patronised his scheem so far as to give him an exclusive right for said boats for the term of fourteen years and the state of Pennsylvania have passed a law for public consideration similar thereto-That your petitioner has invented a method of rowing boats by oars worked by cranks which was never heretofore used which applies not only to the force of steam but the strength of a horse or any other power to equally as good advantage as men with oars whereby inland navigation must be benefited nearly as much as the labour of horses is cheaper than the labour of men. Your petitioner therefore humbly prays that your honourable body will take into their consideration said improvements and grant your petitioner such 1088 EARLY STEAM encouragement as in their wisdom shall seem proper-And your petitioner as in duty bound shall ever pray JOHN FITCH New York February 21st 1787 Endorsed, No. 147 A petition of John Fitch Praying an exclusive Privilege for a limited Time of constructing vessels to be propelled thro' the water by the force of steam. In Assembly February 24th 1787 read and referred to Mr Sickles Mr Jones & Mr Hamilton. February 27th 1787. Mr Sickles reported-see the Report annexed-a Bill was bro't in pursuant to the prayer of the petition. To the honourable the representatives of the state of New York in General assembly met Gentleman whereas your petitioner has formed a plan for facilitating the navigation of Rapid Rivers he therefore doth propose to construct a Certain Species of Boat of the Burthen of Ten Tons, which shall sail orbe propell'd by the Combin'd Influences of Certain mechanical powers thereto apply'd the distance of Between Twentyfive to forty miles per day against the Current of a rapid river notwithstanding the velocity of the water should move at the Rate of five miles per hour and upwards; with the burthen of Ten tons on Board to be wrought at no greater Expense than that of three hands; and as a premium for so useful an Invention your petitioner prays for an act to pass this honourable house of Assembly Granting to your petitioner his heirs and assigns the sole and Exclusive right of Constructing navigating and employing Boats Constructed after his new invented model upon each and every Creek, River, Bay Inlet & harbour within the Limits and Jurisdiction of this commonwealth, for and during the term of Ten years fully to be Compleated and ended to be Computed from the first day of January 1785 provided always that the Legislature of this Commonwealth may at any time abolish the Exclusive Right herein prayed for, by paying to your petitioner his heirs or assigns the sum of ten thousand pounds in gold or silver & your petitioner as in duty bound shall pray. James Rumsey. Endorsed, James Rumsey's Petition to the State of NJew York. NAVIGATION. 1089 GENL-. WASHINGTON'S OPINION OF MR. RUMSEY'S INVENTION. I have seen the model of Mr Rumsey's Boats, Constructed to work against Stream examined the powers, upon which it acts; been eye witness to an actual experiment in Running water of some rapidity; and give it as my opinion (altho I had little faith before) that he has discovered the art of working Boats by mechanism and small manual assistance against Rapid Currents; that the Discovery is of vast Importance; may be of the greatest usefulness in our Inland navigation; and if it succeeds of which I have no doubt that the value of it is greatly enhanced by the simplicity of the works; which when seen and explained to may be executed by the most Common mechanic. Given under my hand at the Town of Bath, County of Berkely in the State of Virginia this 7th of Septr 1784 Go. WASHINGTON. A true Coppy Compared with the org1 New York Decr 3, 1784-I do certify that I have seen the original, of which the within is a copy, and believe the whole to have been written by General Washington with whose handwriting I am perfectly acquaintedBen Walker formerly aid De Endorsed Camp to his Excell y A copy of Gen Washington's Gen1 Washington voucher. Philada De: 9th 1788 SIR I think it proper to inform you that I am about to set off for Albany where I propose to be on the i5th inst in Order to present a Petition to the Legislature of the State of New York in Behalf of Mr James Rumsey praying a grant of the exclusive Privilege of constructing and using within that state his model of propelling Vessels by the Force of Steam & the Boilers by him invented for generating Steam, in Order that you may be heard if you think proper to attend- yours &c Joseph Barnes Mr John Fitch attorney for James Rumsey VOL. ii. 69 1090 EARLY STEAM On the tenth day of December Anno Domini one thousand seven hundred and eighty eight; Before me Clement Biddle esquire Notary and Tabellion public for the commonwealth of Pennsylvania duly commissioned and qualified, and one of the Justices of the court of common pleas for the city and County of Philadelphia dwelling in the said city Personally came George Kemp who being duly sworn on the Holy Evangelists of Almighty God, did depose and say That on the day of the date hereof at the request of Joseph Barnes attorney for James Rumsey he went to the dwelling or Lodging of Mr John Fitch and in presence of Joseph Barnes attorney for James Rumsey as aforesaid delivered to the said John Fitch a true copy of the paper writing contained on the other side hereof and further saith not George Kemp Sworn as above before me Quod attestor Clement Biddle Not Pub & J. C. C. P. 1788. Richmond November 17th 1784. Virginia To all whom it may concern I do hereby certify that a Bill " giving unto James Rumsey his heirs and assigns the sole and exclusive Right of constructing navigating and employing Boats after his new invented model for the term of Ten years to be computed from the first day of January next" has passed the House of Delegates of this state with this Proviso "A that the exclusive right therein granted may at any time be abolished by the Legislature of this Commonwealth upon the payment unto the said Rumsey his Heirs or assigns the sum of Ten thousand Pounds in Gold or silver, and that the said Bill is to be sent up to the Senate for their concurrence as soon as they shall have formed a House. Jno Tyler, S. H. D. New York ss: James MeMechen of Berkeley County in Virginia being duly sworn on the Holy evangelists deposeth and saith that the above is NAVIGATION. 1091 a true Copy of a certificate in his possession subscribed with the name of John Tyler speaker of the House of Delegates of Virginia, that the Deponent knows the Hand writing and subscribing of the said John Tyler and does verily believe his name subscribed to the said Certificate to be of the Hand writing of the said John TylerThat the said Certificate was delivered to the Deponent by the said James Rumsey therein named at the City of Richmond in Virginia at which time and place several of the Gentlemen of the House of Delegates were present and did see and read the said Certificate-and further the Deponent saith not. James McMechen. Sworn the third day of Decr 1784 before me John McKesson Nots Pub. To the honourable the Legislature of the State of New York in Senate and Assembly convened The Petition of JAMEs RUMSEY of Berkeley County in the State of Virginia by Joseph Barnes at present of the City of Philadelphia his attorney for the special Purpose duly constituted Most respectfully sheweth That your Petitioner hath invented a mode of raising Water in great Quantities to any Height from below or above the surface of the Earth by means of Steam acting upon two pistons at the same time, whereby mines may be drained, Cities or farming Grounds be watered, and mills supplied.with a constant Stream at an expence far less than by any mode hitherto used or invented, a Draft or Specification of which Invention with an Explanation of its Use is ready to be delivered to this Honble House & to be filed on Record in any public Office which they may think most proper to preserve the same; Your Petitioner therefore prays that this Honble House will be pleased to give him Leave to introduce a Bill to be enacted into a Law granting & securing to your Petitioner his Executors Administrators and Assigns the Exclusive Right and Privilege of making constructing and using machines for raising Water for all Purposes whatsoever by the Action of Steam applied to two Pistons at the 1092 EARLY STEAM same time, in the manner and upon the principles by him invented & defined in the said Draft Explanation and Specification. And your Petitioner &ca James Rumsey, By Joseph Barns. his attorney. Endorsed, No. 52 1788 A petition of James Rumsey by Joseph Barnes his attorney praying an exclusive Right of making constructing and using machines for raising water (by means of steam) for all purposes whatever. In Assembly December 23d 1788. Read E.nd Referred to Mr G Livingston Mr. Havens and Mr Van Cortlandt The Committee to whom were referred the Petition of James. Rumsey setting forth that he hath invented a new method of propelling Boats by Steam, and hath made improvements in divers Engines and Machines and Praying for an exclusive Right to the same for a limited time, and the Petition of John Fitch praying that the Prayer of the Petition of the said James Rumsey may not be granted; and the Petition of John Stevens setting forth that he hath invented a method of propelling Boats by steam that does not interfere with the pretensions of either the said James Rumsey or John Fitch-Report That they have examined the Petitions of the said James Rumsey and John Fitch with the papers and affidavits accompanying the same and are of opinion that the said James Rumsey hath by actual experiment ascertained the practicability of propelling boats by the agency of Steam in a mode and on principles different from those heretofore used by the said John Fitch, but that the act securing to John Fitch the exclusive Right of propelling Boats by the force of Fire or steam for a limited timer is conceived in such general terms that it would be improper to vacate any part of the said grant without giving both the Parties a hearing; but the Committee are further of opinion that nothing in the said Act securing to John Fitch the exclusive Right of propelling Boats by Fire or Steam can be construed to prevent the Legislature from securing to James Rumsey for a limited time the exclusive right of generating steam 'AVmSATION. 1093 by his new invented method of a Pipe Boiler, and further that they ~have examined the Petition of John Stevens and the Draughts;accompanying the same and are of Opinion that the method proposed by him for propelling boats by steam does not materially differ in its principles from the mode proposed by James Rumsey;and that he stands in the same situation with respect to John Fitch as the said James Rumsey and further that the committee have prepared the draught of a Bill securing to James Rumsey the exclusive right to his inventions for a limited time which they have directed their Chairman to report to the House To the honourable the Legislative Council and General Assembly of the state of New York The Petition of JOHN' FITCH of the City of Philadelphia humbly sheweth That your Petitioner received notice on the 10th of this Inst from Joseph Barnes attorney for James Rumsey, that he was about to petition your honourable House for an exclusive right to a Steam Boat and a Pipe Boiler. Your Petitioner humbly begs leave to represent that by a law passed in the year 1787, your honourable Legislature vested in your Petitioner the exclusive Right for a term of years of propelling Vessels through the Water by the agency of Steam, which exclusive Right hath also been granted him in the States of New Jersey, Pensylvania and Delaware, to whose several Legislatures James Rumsey had made application with a view of destroying the Right of your Petitioner, under the pretence of using a different mode in application of Steam to the propelling of Boats and also under a pretence of an invention of boiling water in a pipe for the purpose of creating Steam, which idea of boiling in a Pipe was by, your Petitioner laid before thePhilosophical Society in Philadelphia some months before the time assumed by the said Rumsey, as the period of his first invention, and that the mode of propelling by forcing water out abaft, which he claims as his invention, was published by Mons, Bernoulli in the year 1738, consequently was open to ccmmon use, and thereby included in the Law to your Petitioner. 1.094 EARLY STEAM Your Petitioner hath. successfully opposed the said Rumsey H his applications to the said Assemblies, and hath hitherto preserved: his Rights inviolate,, the report of the Commitee of Seven- leading Members of the honorable Assembly of Pennsylvania, after a debate of five days. supported: on the side of Mr. Rumsey by an eminent Attorney at Law, your Petitioner begs leave to annex. herewith. Since which he has made two fruitless attempts to destroy my just and, legal Rights in the state of Delaware and New Jersey; In Virginia your petitioner hath also obtained an exclusive Right being the State in which said Rumsey resided, without the least opposition from him or any of his friends, notwithstanding from my first petitioning that Assembly, to obtaining the Law was more than one Year and Eleven Months, your Petitioner hath not hitherto been informed whether he has made application in that State or not, but doubts not from the justness and stability of that honourable Body that they will not take his just Rights from him without hearing the defence of your Petitioner. Your Petitioner therefore humbly prays, that in case a Petition should be presented by the said attorney, which may interfere with your Petitioner's Rights, either in the Steam Boat or the PipeBoiler, so long in use in your Petitioners Boat on the River Delaware and a Machine necessary for the completion of that design for which your Law was given, he humbly prays to be heard in the defence of his Rights. Your petitioner is perfectly willing to rest the justice of his claim, either before your honourable House or before the New Congress, if your honourable House should judge it most expedient to refer the same to them. Your Petitioner begs leave to observe, that such repeated vexatious applications seem calculated to divert your Petitioner from pursuing the business of the Boat, or to promote a clashing of Laws amongst the different States, or to destroy his resources in defending his just Rights, and prevent him from compleating the great undertaking he has now on hands. Your Petitioner humbly begs leave to rep>resent, that he hath expended a great portion of his time, and a great sum of money in perfecting said Boat, in full confidence of enjoying an uninterrupted possession of the several grants to him made. NAVIGATION. 1095 Under the said confidence a number of Gentlemen have advanced money to a very considerable amount hoping to benefit themselves as well as their Country thereby. Your Petitioner therefore humbly prays that the grant made to him, may not be permitted to be violated or invaded by a subsequent pretender, and considering the very great and expensive journey, and my inabilities to perform it, not only on account of the great expense but the infirmities of body occasioned by Rheumatick pains, and the great confidence reposed in your honourable Legislature of keeping inviolate the solemnitys of their Laws. However convenient it might be for me to attend, I am of opinion that it would be altogether unnecessary. But should your honorable House think proper to take up the business, I humbly pray that I may be seasonably notified by your honourable House for the defence of my just and Legal Rights and that they may not be taken from me without the opportunity of being heard in my own defence. Your Petitioner humbly begs leave to refer your honourable House to the annexed Papers and Pamphlets, accompanying this And your Petitioner as in duty bound will ever pray. JOHN FITCH. To the Honorable Legislature of the State of New-York in Senate and Assembly convened. THE PETITION OF JAMES RUMSEY OF BERtKELY COUNTY, IN THE STATE OF VIRGINIA, JMost Respectfully Sheweth, That your petitioner has been several years employed, with unremitted attention, and at a great expense, in inventing, and bringing to perfection, sundry machines and engines; namely, one for propelling boats on the water, by the power of steam, which has been already accomplished in experiments, on a boat of about six tons burthen; another machine, constructed on similar principles, for raising water at a small expence, to be applied to the working of mills of different kinds, as well as to various useful purposes in agriculture; a new invented boiler for generating steam; and also other machines, by means of which, Grist and Saw Mills may be so improved in their construction, by a very 1096 EARLY STEAM cheap, and simple machine, as to require the application of much less water, than is necessary in the common mode. Your petitioner humbly conceives, that advantages of great importance to the agriculture and mercantile interests of the United States, may be derived from the use and employment, therein, of the before mentioned engines and machines; but he begs leave to represent to the honorable Legislature, that, without some encouragement and support from the government, he will not be enabled to prosecute his discoverys, and to carry his aforesaid inventions and improvements into execution; whereby the public would be deprived of the benefits that might result from them; and your petitioner greatly injured, by the sacrifices he has made of his time and property. Your petitioner deems it unnecessary, in this stage of his application to your honorable body, to enter into a detail of the nature and principles of the improvements, to, which his present petition, relates:: He therefore takes the liberty of referring to the printed papers, herewith presented, for further information on the subject, and he flatters himself, that, on mature consideration, your honorable body will be fully satisfied, both of the practicability of his plans, and of their importance, as an object of great public utility-Under this impression, he respectfully solicits the patronage of the Legislature of this state. Your petitioner therefore prays, that the honorable Legislature, as the guardians and trustees of the public prosperity, will be pleased to enact a law, granting as a reward for his before mentioned inventions and improvements, an exclusive right to him, his executors, administrators and assigns, of constructing, navigating. and employing, for a certain term of years, within this state, the several boats, engines, and machines, by him invented and improved. And your petitioner humbly submits to the judgement of, this house whether in consideration of the great expence he has already incurred in the prosecution of his objects, and the further charges which must necessarily attend the completion of his plans, the exclusive right prayed for should not be vested for such a term, as NAYIGATION. 1097 might afford him an honorable compensation, proportioned to his services. JAMES RUMSEY. Endorsed, 1788 James Rumsey's Petition In Assembly Dec. 18th 1788 Read & Referred with the Pamphlet & papers attending the same to Mr G. Livingston Mr. Havens & Mr. Van Cortlandt. Extract from the printed minutes of the Assembly of the state of Virginia — Saturday Novr 15th 1788. " A petition of James Rumsey, by George Morrow his attorney in fact, was presented to the house and read setting forth, that he is the original discoverer and inventor of sundry machines and engines, for propelling boats on the water by the power of steam for which an exclusive priviledge was granted by an act of the last assembly to a certain John Fitch, that he is well prepared to prove his prior claim to the said discovery, as also to manifest the advantages thereof, and praying that the act in favour of the said: John Fitch, may be repealed. Ordered that the said petition be- referred to M1 Trage, Mr Henry, Mr Randolph MJ Carlins, Mr Bland, Mr White, Mr David Stuart, Mr. Carrington and Mr. King, that they do examine the matter thereof & report the same with their opinion thereupon to the House." Thursday the 20th of November, 1788 "The speaker laid before the house a letter and petition of John Fitch, praying that he may still enjoy the exclusive priviledge of conducting steam boats within this state, which was granted to him, by an Act of the last session of Assembly; and, that all attempts to interfere with this right, may be disregarded; which was read and ordered to referred, to the committee to whom the petition of James Rumsey was referred." Fryday the 21st of November 1788." Mr David Stuart reported from the committee to whom the 1098 EARLY STEAM petitions of James Rumsey and John Fitch were committed, that the committee had according to order, had the same under their consideration, and had agreed upon a report, and came to several resolutions thereupon, which he read in his place, and afterwards delivered in at the clerks table, when the same were again twice read, and agreed to by the house as followeth:" " Whereas James Rumsey hath complained to the General Assembly, that the exclusive priviledge granted to John Fitch, by the Act intituled " An Act Granting to John Fitch the exclusive privilege of constructing and navigating boats impelled by fire or steam for a limited time," hath been obtained to the injury of him the said James Rumsey, upon a misrepresentation, that the said John Fitch was the original author of the invention therein mentioned. And whereas it appears to the satisfaction of your committee, from the testimony produced to them, that the said Rumsey's representation is just, and that he is the original author of the invention mentioned in the said act.Resolved, That it is the opinion of this committee, That the act passed at the last session of the general Assembly, intituled " An act granting to John Fitch the exclusive privilege of constructing and navigating boats impelled by fire or steam, for a limited time" ought to be repealed. Resolved, That it is the opinion of this Committee, That the petition of the said John Fitch, in opposition thereto be rejected. Ordered that a Bill or Bills be brought in, pursuant to the last resolution, and that the said Committee, do prepare and bring in the same." A true extract from the minutes examined By Gilbert Livingstone 11th. February 1789-Albany. Endorsed, Extract from the minutes of the I-louse of Assembly of Virginia on the Petition &c. of James Rumsey. NAVIGATION. 1099 An ACTfor vesting in JAMES RUMSEY, Esquire, the exclusive right and privilege of making, using and vending divers engmes, machines and devices, by him invented, or improved, for a term of years therein mentioned. WHEREAS James Rumsey, of Berkeley county, in Virginia, hath represented to this House, that he hath invented, or improved divers engines, machines, and devices, hereinafter particularly mentioned, upon principles and constructions not before used, and by actual experiments, hath demonstrated the practicability and utility thereof, and hath in the office of plans of the said several inventions and improvements, with explanations thereof, in order particularly to designate and distinguish them from other engines, machines, and devices heretofore used for purposes somewhat similar. Which engines, machines and devices, are called by the following names, and known by the following distinguishing characters, viz. RUMSEY S PIPE BOILER, for the more ample and easy generating of steam by passing a small quantity of water through an incurvated tube, placed in a furnace, whereby the action of fire is communicated to the water and steam in all its passage from the entrance to the exit, and which kind of boiler can be easily adapted to every species of fire or steam engines. RUMSEYeS STEAM BOAT, a practical mode of propelling vessels by means of the reaction of a stream of water, forced by the agency of steam through a trunk or cylinder, parallel to the keel, out at the stern. RUMSEY7S IMPROVEMENT UPON SAVERY'S MACHINE, or steam engine, whereby water may be raised in great quantities to any reasonable height, for the turning of mills. or for agricultural or other purposes. RUMSEY's IMPROVEMENT UPON DOCTOR BARKER)S MILL, a mode by which millstones and other machinery, requiring a circular or retrograde motion, may be turned by or worked with a smaller quantity of water than by any plan yet exhibited to the public, and entirely free from the difficulties which prevented Doctor Barker's invention from coming into use. RuMsEY's CYLINDRIC SAW MILL) or a mode by which mill saws and all other machinery, requiring an alternately opposite 1100 EARLY STEAM motion, whether perpendicular or horizontal, may be worked without the loss of the weight or force of any part of the water used. AND WHEREAS it is highly proper, that ingenious men who by their labours and study contrive and invent improvements in arts and sciencesi should be rewarded by the community, in proportion to the advantages resulting. from the usefulness of their inventions.; and as the most proper mode of ascertaining the utility of any new invention or improvement, must be experience; and as the exclusive right and privilege of making, using, and vending to others, such newly invented engines, machines and inventions, is not only the most cheap and frugal, but the most certain way of rewarding inventors according to their several merits, It is therefore hereby enacted, by the and by the authority of the same, that from and after the passing of this act, the said JAMES RUMSEY his executors, administrators and assigns, shall have the sole and exclusive right, liberty and privilege within the state, of making, using and vending to others, the said BoILER for generating steam, so as aforesaid described, and called RUMSEY'S PIPE BOILER; the said STEAM BOAT to be propelled through the a ater, by means of the re-action of a stream of water forced by steam through a trunk or cylinder from the stern of the boat, against the surrounding water, so as aforesaid described, and called RuMsEY's STEAM BOAT; the said improvement of SAVERY)S ENGINE, for raising water for the turning of mills, or for agricultural or other purposes so as aforesaid described, and called RUMSEYlS improvement upon SAVERYyS machine, or STEAM ENGINE; the said mode for turning mill stones, and other machinery requiring a circular or retrograde motion, called RUMSFYyS improvement upon DOCTOR BARKER'S mill, and the said mode of working saw-mills, and other machines requiring an alternately opposite motion, perpendicular or horizontal, called RUMsEYus SAW MILL; all which engines, machines and devices, are more particularly defined and described in the said plans, and explanations so as aforesaid filed of record in the office of and to which definitions and descriptions. for farther certainty, this act particularly refers.. NAVIGATION. 1101.And it is hereby further enacted by the authority aforesaid, that no person or persons whomsoever, shall make, use, or vend to others to be used, any or either of the inventions or improvements so as aforesaid described or defined in this act, or in the plans or explanations filed of record in the said office, and hereby referred unto; or any engine, machine or device whatsoever formed or contrived upon the same principles therewith, although the form thereof may be varied, under the penalty of forfeiting to the said JAMES RUMtEY, his executors, administrators or assigns, the sum of lawful money of this state; and moreover forfeiting to him and them, all and every such engine, machine and devices:so as aforesaid to be contrived, made, used or vended within this state; the said penalty to be recovered by action of debt, founded upon this act, wherein no essoine, protection or wager of law, nor more than one imparlance, shall be allowed, And in the execution to be issued upon any judgment obtained in pursuance of this act, a clause shall be inserted, commanding the sheriff or other proper officer to deliver the said engine, device or machine,to the plaintiff if it can be conveniently removed; but if not, that then and in such a case, the said sheriff, or other proper officer, shall cause the same to be prostrated, destroyed and rendered useless, any law to the contrary notwithstanding..nd it is further enacted by the authority aforesaid, that the sole and exclusive right and privilege for making, using and vending the engines, machines and devices aforesaid, by this act granted to the said JAMES RUMSEY, his executors, administrators and assigns,. shall continue for the term of years from the time of passing this act, and no longer: And that all actions to him or them accrued, or accruing within the said term, shall remain in full force, during and after the expiration of this act Endorsed, Act for vesting in James Rumsey &c. &c. 1102 EARLY STEAM NAVIGATION. To the JIonourable the Legislature of the State of New-York in Senate and Assembly convened. The Petition of JOHN STEVENS Jun:r of Hoboken in the State of New Jersey. That your Petitioner has bestowed a great deal of Time and Thought towards perfecting a Machine for propelling a Vessel through the Water by means-of Steam. That he has at length brought his Invention to that degree of perfection. That as he conceives little or no further Improvement can be made on itThat to the best of his Knowledge & Belief his Scheme is altogether new or at least does not interfere with the Inventions of either of the Gentlemen who have applied to your honourable Body fbr an exclusive Right of navigating by means of Steam. That your Petitioner has made an exact Draught of the different Parts of his machines, which with an Explanation Thereof he is ready to exhibit, provided that after the Exhibition Thereof, no one be suffered to lay claim to any Invention therein described unless he shall have before exhibited a draught or model Thereof to your honorable body-and your petitioner therefore prays That in case his machine should appear to be a new and useful Invention, That the Honble the Legislature would be pleased to grant to him an exclusive privilege and Right of using the same for the purposes of navigation throughout the State of New-York for such term of Years as shall seem meet And your Petitioner shall ever pray presented-9 January 1789 JOHN STEVENS Junr * The Law passed by the Legislature of N. Y. in Mr. Fitch's favor, is entitled "An ACT for granting and securing to John Fitch the Sole Right and advantage of making and Employing, for a limited Time, the Steam-Boat by him lately invented." It is dated 19th March, 1787, and will be found in Greenleaf's Ed. of the Laws of the State of New-York, 1792, Vol. I, c. LVII. Further information on the subject of Early Steam Navigation can be had by reference to a History of the Steamboat case, Trenton, 1815; Colden's Life of Fulton, New-York, 1817; Duer's Letter to Cad: D. Colden, Albany, 1817; Colden's answer to Mr. Duer, Albany, 1818, &c. I= <:q tbk -t f A —t r W pr — 4.~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~1 He~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~..4.. X.1F~.....I J. I. Pea~se~kfg~g~g~ztaR< t o rat es scar. S~f7G/' a.........Peas e ---— ~~~ ~ ---— /- aw//g/fgggg f/gg/>/7 /g g~i./ z e,' iej'cirrz A Xgii DESCRIPTION OF THE COUNTRY BETWEEN ALBANY & NIAGARA IN 1792.,[I Mass. Hist. Coll. I.] I am just returned from Niagara, about 560 miles west of Boston. I went first to Albany, from thence to Schenectada, about Sixteen miles; this has been a very considerable place of trade, but is now falling to decay: It was supported by the Indian traders; but this business is so arrested by traders far in the country, that very little of it reached so far down: it stands upon the Mohawk river, about 9 miles above the Falls, called the Cohoes but this I take to be the Indian name for Falls.: Its chief business is to receive the merchandize from Albany, and put it into batteaux, to go up the river, and forward to Albany Such.produce of the back country as is sent to market. After leaving Schenectada, I travelled over a most beautiful country of eighty miles to Fort Schuyler, where I forded the Mohawk: This extent was the scene,of British and Savage cruelty, during the late war, and they did not cease, while anything remained to destroy. What a contrast now! every house and barn rebuilt, the pastures crowded with cattle, Sheep, &c. and the lap of Ceres full. Most of the land on,each Side of the Mohawk river, is a rich flat highly cultivated with every species of grain, the land on each side the flats, rising in agreeable Slopes; this, added to the view of a fine river passing through the whole, gives the beholder the most pleasing Sensations imaginable. I passed next through Whitestown. It would appeal to you, my friend, on hearing the relation of events in the western country, that the whole was fable; and if you were placed in Whitestown, or Clinton, ten miles west from Fort Schuyler, and see the progress of improvement, you would believe it enchanted ground.You would there view an extensive well built town, surrounded by highly cultivated fields, which Spot in the year 1783 was the BEOL. L. 7.0 1106 PAPERS RELATING TO' Chaunt of tribes" and the hiding place of wolves, now a flourishing' happy Situation, containing about Six thousand people - Clinton stands a little South of Whitestown, and is a, very large thriving, town. After passing Clinton, there are no inhabitants upon the roady, until you reach Oneida, an Indian town, the first of the Six Nations; it contains about Five hundred and fifty inhabitants; here I slept,. and found the natives very friendly. The next day I went on tm Onondaga, leaving the Oneida lake on the right, and- the Onondaga lake on the left, each a few miles distant. I slept at Onondaga,. at the house of a Mr. --- who is employed in boiling down the waters of the Salt springs, which are about 7 miles north of his: house, for supplying the country with Salt-he told me that he made about fifty bushels per week,. which he sold at five shillings per bushel, but that any quantity may be made, and at a less price, these springs are in the State reservation, and are a wonderful benefit to the country, every part of which is so united by lakes and rivers as to render the Supply of this bulky and necessary article very easy. Independent of our own Settlements,. we can supply the British in the whole of Upper Canada., Thirty five miles from this place I struck the Cayuga Lake. The, road is tolerable for a new country; the land excellent, and very heavy timbered. There are but three houses upon this road. This lake is from about thirty five to? forty miles long, about two miles wide, and' abounds with Salmon, bass, catfish, eels and many other kinds of fish. This lake empties itself into what is called Three Rivers, joining the waters of the Oneida Lake, and them proceeds by Oswego into Ontario. On each side the Cayuga Lake is a ferry house and good attendance given. Twelve miles west of the Cayuga I struck the Canada Saga lake-no inhabitant upon this road-this lake is the handsomest piece of water I ever beheld;. its length and breadth nearly that of Cayuga, into which it empties. Upon a pretty slope, on the new part of the lake, stands a town, called Geneva; it has a fine: effect from the opposite shore, but disappoints you when you arrive at it. It consists of about twenty log houses, three or four frame buildings, and as many idle persons as. can, live inAthem. Eightee, WESTERN NEW-YORK. 1107 miles lower, on the same side of this lake stands the Friends, Settlement,founded by Jemima Wilkinson; there are eighty families in it, each has a fine farm, and are quiet, moral, industrious people. There is a road from the Friends' Settlement nearly completed, across the country to Genesee river, forty-five miles. I went from Geneva to Canadaqua, sixteen miles, crossing the outlet of Canadaqua lake, just as I entered the town. This is a settlement made by Mr Phelps, and promises to be a very flourishing one; there are now about thirty houses situated on a pleasant slope from the lake, and the adjacent farms are very thriving. The Indians are settled on all the reservations made by this state, and are to be met with at every settlement of whites, in quest of rum! From Canandaqua I travejled about twenty six miles through a fine country, with many settlements forming; this brought me to Genesee river. On this river a great many farms are laying out; sixty-five miles from its mouth is a town marked out by the name of Williamsburgh, and will in all probability be a place of much trade; in the present situation of things it is remote, when considered in a commercial point of view; but should the fort of Oswego be given up, and the lock navigation be completed, there will not bo a carrying place between New-York and Williamsburgh. The present carrying places are as follow, viz. Albany to Schenectada, sixteen miles-the Little Falls, on the Mohawk river, two milesfrom the head of the Mohawk to Wood creek, one mile-Oswego Falls, two miles-Genesee falls, two miles. Thus you see there is only twenty-three miles to cut and lock, in order to carry commerce by water, through an extent of country, capable of maintaining several millions of people. The famous Genesee flats lie on the borders of Genesee river; they are about twenty miles in length, and about four miles wide; the Soil is remarkably rich, quite clear of trees, and producing grass near ten feet high. I estimate these flats to be well worth 200,0001. as they now lie. They are mostly the property of the Indians. Taking a view of this country altogether, I do not know such an extent of ground so good. Cultivation is easy, and the land is grateful. The progress of settlement is so rapid, that you and myself may very probably see the day when we can apply these lines to the Genesee country 1108 PAPERS RELATING TO "Here happy millions their own lands possess, No tyrant awes them, nor no lords oppress." Many times did I break out in an enthusiastic frenzy, anticipating the probable situation of this wilderness twenty years hence. All that reason can ask, may be obtained by the industrious hand; the only danger to be feared is, that luxuries will flow too cheap. After I had reached the Genesee river, curiosity led me on to Niagara, ninety miles-not one house or white man the whole way. The only direction I had was an Indian path, which sometimes was doubtful. The first day I rode fifty miles, through swarms of musquetoes, gnats, &c beyond all description. At eight o'clock in the evening I reached an Indian town, called Tonnoraunto-it contains many hundreds of the Savages, who live in very tolerable houses, which they make of timber and cover with bark. By signs I made them understand me, and for a little money they cut me limbs and bushes sufficient to erect a booth, under which I slept very quietly, on the grass. The next day I pursued my journey, nine miles of which lay through a very deep swamp; with some diffculty I got through, and about sun-down arrived at the fort of Niagara Here the centinel inquired from whence we came; upon his being told, he called the sergeant of the day, who escorted us to the captain of the guard, he asked our names, (a Mr. -, of ---- was with me) and said he supposed we came upon our private business &c-he sent us to the commandant who entered our names, and offered us a pass to go over to the British side, which we accepted. Quite fatigued we were happy to find a tavern, and something to eat; a few hours sleep brought me again to myself. This fort is now garrisoned by the 5th regiment, commanded formerly by Earl Piercey, and had the honour of dancing yankee doodle on the plains of Cambridge, 19th April 1775. The commander of the fort is a Col. Smith. The day after our arrival we crossed the river Erie to the town of Niagara where probably the British fort will be built, when the, present one is given up. We met Col. B. 1 This is the man who did so much execution in the late war with the Indians, upon the Mohawk river, Schohary and Cherry Valley. We found him holding a council with a body of chiefs who were at Philadelphia 1 qu. Col. Butler? WESTERN NEW-YORK. 1109 in April last, informing him what they had done there. A Mr Johnson, some relation of the famous Sir John Johnson, interpreter to the Indians was also present; and I have no doubt remaining but they effaced every favourable impression made on their minds by presents from Congress. I see enough to convince me of the absurdity of our endeavours to hold the Savages by presents, while the British are situated at Detroit, Niagara, &e. They have all their clothing, cooking utensils, ammunition, &c served almost as regularly as the troops in garrison; if they want provisions, they get it free. Those tribes called the Six Nations we are at peace with, and take much pains to cultivate a good understanding, but we deceive ourselves. The old men, the women, and the children remain at home inactive, while all the young warriors join the fighting powers against us-this is all they could do, if we were at open war with them. An Indian becomes a miserable being when deprived of his hunting ground, and surrounded with cellars of rum or whiskey. The whole Six Nations live on grounds, called the State Reservations, and there are intermediate spaces settled on both sides by white people; this has a tendency to drive off the game and if by chance they kill a bear, or a deer, his skin goes at once for rum; in this way they are become poor enervate creatures. They cannot keep together a great while, and I expect they will quit all this part of the country, and retire over the lakes Ontario and Erie. Their whole number is about 6000, of which 1000 are warriors -how contemptible compared with their former greatness! The leading men of these Six Nations, or what they call Chiefs, were on the road with me going to Buffalo Creek, to hold a council; their object I was informed was to use their influence with the hostile tribes to make a peace. This will have no effect! Poweris the influence with Indians; this alone will give us peace. I see some of the Indians who fought the battle at the Miami; and by an interpreter received a very tolerable account of the action 5 they were of opinion that our troops did not do their duty. Col. B. told me that the only way to make a peace with the Indians was to apply to Lord Dorchester, or the commander in chief at Quebeck, and let him appoint some of the Commanders of the 1110 PAPERS RELATING TO garrisons, say Detroit, Niagara, &c, to meet on the part of the British, to draw a line that shall be deemed right and reasonable between the Americans and Indians, and have the treaty guaranteed to the Indians by the British. I spurned at the idea, and told Col. Butler, that it was my wish, whenever America became so contemptible, that the whole country might be annihilated. I visited the great curiosity, the Falls, and must refer you to Mr. Elicott's account of them in the Columbian Magazine for June 1790. I cannot help being of opinion that Indians, (or what are called Redmen,) never were intended to live in a state of civil society. There never was, I believe, an instance of an Indian forsaking his habits and savage manners, any more than a bear his ferocity. The Rev. Mr. Kirkland, who acts as missionary among the Oneidas, has taken all the pains that man can take, but his whole flock are Indians still, and like the bear which you can muffle and lead out to dance to the sound of music. becomes again a bear when his muffler is removed and the music ceases. The Indians will attend public worship and sing extremely well, following Mr. Kirkland's notes; but whenever the service is over, they wrap themselves in their blankets, and either stand like cattle on the sunny side of a house, or lie before a fire. This is their mode of passing life: even the bold energy of their forefathers, which was conspicuous in the chace, is unstrung in their descendants, and instead of sliding to the grave " like a shock of corn in its full ear," they become ripe for it in youth and often find it by the most disgraceful means. THE GENESEE COUNTRY. AN ACCOUNT OF THE SOIL, Growing Timber, and other produclions of the lands in the countries situated in the back parts of the,states of New-York and Pennsylvania, in North America; and,particularly the lands in the county of ONTARIO, known by the name -of THE GENESEE TRACT, lately located, and Snow in the progress -of being settled. [Imlay's Topog. Descrip. of the WVestern Territo'y of N. America.] The lands generally known by the name of the Genesee tract,;are situated in the back parts of the state of New-York and,contain upwards of 2,000,000 of acres, mostly good arable land, forming nearly an oblong square of 80 miles in length from south -to north, and 42 miles wide from east to west. These lands were granted to Messrs. Gorhain and Phelps, the original purchasers from the state of Massachussets, in the year 1788. And this grant was afterwards confirmed by the six nations 4of Indians, who, on receiving a valuable consideration, alienated, the whole of this property) and soon after these nations removed themselves and families to a distant country. The south-east corner of this tract is in latitude 42Q, longitude 82~.; lying west from the river Delaware; and 77 miles west froma Philadelphia. The actual distance of the eastern boundary, from the Hudsons *river or Albany, is about 140 miles. From Philadelphia, by the nearest road, the distance may be about 180 miles; and not more than 200 miles north of the proposed new city of Columbia, the intended seat of government of the United States. But the peculiar advantages which distinguish these lands over most of the new settled countries of America, are these following: 1. The uncommon excellence and fertility of the soil. 2. The superior quality of the timber, and the advantages of easy cultivation, in consequence of being generally free from und,:trwood. 3. The abundance of grass for cattle in the woods, and (in the extensive meadow grounds upon the lakes and rivers. 4. The vast quantities of the sugar maple-tree, in every part of the tract, 5. The great variety of other fine timber, such as oak, hiccory black walnut, chesnut, ash of different kinds) elm, butternua 1112 PAPERS IELATING TO basswood, poplar, pines, and also, thorn trees of a prodigious sgei. 6. The variety of fruit-trees, and also smaller fruits, such as apple and peach orchards, in different places, which were planted by the Indians, plum and cherry-trees, mulberries, grapes of different kinds, raspberries) huckle-berries, black-berries, wild goose-berries, and straw-berries in vast quantities.-also cranberries, and black haws, &c. 7. The vast variety of wild animals and game which is to be found in this country, such as deer, moose deer, and elk of a very large size, beavers, otters, martins, minxes, rabbits, squirrels, racoons, bears, wild-cats, &c., many of which furnish excellent furs and peltry. 8-. The great variety of birds for game, such as wild turkies, pheasants, partridges, pigeons, plovers, heathfowl, and indian hen, together with a vast variety of water-fowl on the rivers, and lakes, such as wild geese and ducks, of many different kinds, not known in Europe. 9. The uncommon abundance of very fine fish, with which the lakes and rivers, aboundi among which are to be found excellent salmon of two different kinds, salmon-trout, of a very large size, white and yellow perchy sheep-heads, pike, succors, and eels of a very large size, with a variety of other fish in their different seasons. 10. The excellence of the climate in that region where these lands are situated, which is less severe in winter, and not so warm in summer, as the same latitudes nearer the sea.-The total exemption from all periodical disorders, particularly the fever and ague, which does not prevail in the Genesee country, on account of the rising grounds and fine situations. 11. The vast advantages derived from the navigable lakes, river, and creeks, which intersect and run through every part of this tract of country, affording a water communication from the northern parts of the grant by the Genesee river one way, or by the Seneca river another way into the great lake Ontario, and from thencebyCataraquito Quebec, orby the said Seneca river,the Oneida lake, and Wood creek, to Schenectady on the Mohawk river, with o..nly a short land carriage, and from thence to Albany, with a portage of 16 miles; affording also a water communication from almost every township of the southern part of the grant, by means of the different branches of the Tioga river, which joining the Susquehanna affords an outlet to produce, through an immense extent of country on every hand, to Northumberland, and all the towns upon the great branch of this river, down to Maryland and Virginia: and (with a portage of 12 miles) even to Philadelphia with small boats 9 and when the improvements are made in the Susquehannah, and the projected canal cut between the Schuylkill and that river; there will be an uninterrupted good water communication for boats of 10 or 15 tons from the interior parts of the Genesee country, all the way to Philadelphia. 12. But above all, the uncommon benefits these lands derive from the vicinity to the thick settled countries in New-York and New-England governments on the one hand, and Northumberland county in Pennsylvania on the other7 from all which quarters, from the great advantages that are held out, there must be an overflow of emigrants every year, until these lands are fully settled: which expectation is already completely evinced, from the rapid population that has taken place on the east boundaries of the grant upon the Tioga river, and between the Seneca and Cayuga lakes, up to lake Ontario,' where, in the course of three or four years, above 800 families have fixed themselves in this fertile country, most of whom having emigrated from the eastern states of New-England, New-York and Pennsylvania, have all the advantages which are to be derived from a perfect knowledge of the country, and from that kind of education and local resource, which soon renders the situation of a new settler comfortable and happy, enabling them, at the same time, to assist new comers, who may be less acquainted with the nature of the country. As a proof the estimation in which the Genesee lands are held by the neighbouring inhabitants, it is only necessary to state the following facts, relative to the population soil, and produce &Co which have been extracted from letters and public documents, upon which the utmost reliance can be placed. The information is in these words: "There are already settled in this particular tract, upwards of 1000-t people, in different townships, although * These lands are part of the tract of country which was granted to the officers and soldiers of the continental army, for military services. The soil is in general the same as the Genesee pre-emption: but they do not possess equal advantages in being exempted from the land-tax for 15 years. These lands are not only subject to the usual taxes of the state, as soon as located, but settlements must be made, and houses built, within a limited time, otherwise they revert bacl to the state. t In 1793 the inhabitants were six times that number.-EDITx :~11A PAPtES RELATING TO two years ago there was not a single person on the whole of the Genesee lands. This winter there is to be a great addition to the number. The return made by the deputy-marshal of New-York, shews not only the precise number of inhabitants that have made settlements in these lands, but also the different townships upon which these settlers have established their farms, and fixed their residence. Of this return the following is an exact copy. A return of the settlers on the pre-emption lands in the county of Ontario, December 1790. I MalesMales 0. No. of Total RANGES..3 above under ~ I; ~ [ Town- number. | 16. 16. g c ~ ships. In the Ist range, 10 22 11 26 0() 0 0 No. 2 59 ditto 12 24 16 25 0 0 0 7 65 ditto 3 12 4 9 0 0 0 8 25 ditto 10 30 13 7 0 0 0 9 50 ditto 8 33 5 17 0 0 0 10 55 ditto 2 4 3 4 0 0 0 11 11 Xn the 2d range, 6 8 7 12 0 0 7 No. 1 34 ditto 5 9 7 9 0 0 0 2 25 ditto 1 1 2 6 0 0 0 5 9(litto 7 20 9 9 0 0 0 8 38 ditto 6 12 1 0 0 0 0 10 13 ditto 2 4 0 0 0 1 0 11 5 In the 3d range, 18 70 8 20 0 0 1 No. 10 99 ditto 12 -2 10 13 0 0 0 11 55 ditto 4 10 1 3 0 0 0 12 14 In the 4th range, 4 18 2 0 0 0 0 No. 8 20 ditto 3 7 4 2 0 0 0 9 13 ditto 10 38 6 2 0 0 1 65 ditto 4 13 2 4 0 0 1 11 20 In the 5th range, 1 2 0 0 0 0 0 No. 9 2 ditto 7 18 4 4 0 0 0 10 26 ditto 2 5 3 2 0 0 0 11 10 ditto 8 15 4 9 0 0 0 12 28 ditto 4 10 6 4 0 0 0 13 20 5th and 6th, 10 17 12 21 0 0 0 3 and 4 50 In the 6th range, 4 7 5 11 0 0 0 No.10 23 ditto 9 26 12 18 0 0 0 11 56 ditto 1 3 1 4 0 0 0 12 8 In the 7th range, 1 1 3 1 0 0 0 No. 6 5 ditto 8 16 4 11 1 0 2 9 34 (litto 8 18 15 26 0 0 0 10 59 West of Genesee river........... 7 10 9 15 0 0 0 0 34 Indian lands oppo site to No.5, 8&9 in the 7th range, 4 8 3 6 0 0 0 0 17 Total.. 201 | 523 | 192 1 318 1 2 | 1047* *By advices received in March 1793, the inhabitants had increased to 7000, and settlers were daily going on the lands. In two years hence, the Genesee lands may be estimated to contain 15,000.-EDIT. */ircloU - 7i/-t:yA, -Iff -Xvpv *j; r f..' WA1 jSql / f / o " *.~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~-v -- I^ ^-Wj,.,^ ~I,,. -p?/pZ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~~~~~~~~~~~~'~l VY-1. -"SCZ,-U WU 2-@- up if | ~ ~~~ ~ ^ ^' -rN'^^S ^ ^ T 8- \ #f's^^; g. i" rj\ /f r.' -.S''^ g'*.IS/g.d/ Z!/ *// S'J vtoJS~o- ~~7,- - -J'> — ^|,-\J- Ie _12 ^^ ^ ^^=.. _ ^l,^ ^,\ S' 0 {_ * C aL/Ztvw a2wy i^ ov^T^Gzo,\ t& <' -/- f >,3^ V.^ r'y zof^!eXZ5'n M, z9./}<( -gpW f~m/97 A X ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~vl -uo Sv " \ s | i ~' **\y " |' } 6! 9*:^W'I'... —-. I ^*' ~:^ ^ /^^ ^ - ^'" 1? ^-'^ V- ^^-^ i^ r'^' (\ at6oudIdiwi -y-yo Vd ^ j7 S I t- / _^ w _i_ _/! ^/ \ I^U~l~p and go down with great rapidity. It is intended that two shall go from the county of Steuben this season: they will be loaded with valuable lumber, and a few fat bullocks. It is supposed they will reach the tide water, * The distance from the head at the Canisteo to Havre de Grace. 1162 PAPERS RELATING TO at Havre de Grace, in five days. In a few years, flour, and every other article of produce in demand at the sea-ports, will be sent the same way. In every other back country of America, where there exists a possibility of sending the spare provisions abroad, particularly on the 0/io, the difficulty of procuring salt to cure the beef and pork will prevent these branches of farming from yielding any profit. The situation of the Genesee Country, and, indeed, the whole western part of the State of New-York, is, in this respect, highly advantageous. It is supplied with salt in such abundance, that the price is not higher than on the sea coast; and the intermediate country, till within one hundred miles of tidewater, is also supplied from these works.* Thousands of barrels pass every year through the Genesee Country, for the use of settlements fifty years established, and one hundred miles nearer to the sea coast. So highly are these waters impregnated with salt, that eight pounds of water, when evaporated, make one pound of pure salt; and the springs are so abundant, that it was calculated by a very ingenious and correct gentleman, that from a single spring three hundred thousand bushels might be made in one year; and at least twenty springs are now used.-But to return to the navigation. The south branch of the Tioga has a north course from the Alleghany Mountains, and joins the Conhocton and Canisteo at the Painted Post, as also does the Tuscarora and Cowanisque. These streams, at this uniting place, form a great, and, in time of high water, a magnificent river. From this place boats of any size could be sent to Baltimore; there being to this navigation no interruptions of consequence until we get below Wright's Ferry; from which place for Havre de Grace the State of Maryland is making great exertions to render the navigation safe and beneficial to the trade of Baltimore. The method which the gentleman employed in this business has taken will, I have no doubt, be crowned with success. The obstructions are formed by bars of * Of so much importance did these salt-works appear to the Government that, two years ago, they took the business entirely under their own direction, and appointed a Conrmmissioner to superintend the salt-makers) and restricted the price to sixty cents per bushel, at which they are obliged, by their contract, to supply the country. WESTERN NEW-YORK. 1163 limestone rock, running across the river, from east to west, and the whole water of the river pours over them., In the dry seasons, the drift wood which collects on these ledges, is gathered and piled on the rocks, and burnt until they become quite heated: water is then thrown on them, when they immediately split into pieces: the rocks are then broke up and thrown into the pools below. These breaches are made one hundred yards in length, so as to allow rafts of any size to pass with safety. Large subscriptions have been made to carry on these works; and there is no doubt but a few years perseverance will complete a safe navigation from the head of the Canisteo to Baltimore. The navigation from the county of Ontario to Schenectady, sixteen miles from Albany, has been of late years much improved, and is of great advantage to that part of the country. The outlets of Seneca Lake, Canadarqua Lake, and Mud Creek, join together, and form the Seneca River, which, through its whole extent, is a very useful navigation At the Three River Point it is met by the outlet of the Oneida Lake, and, after passing Oneida Lake, the boats ascend Mud Creek, from which there is a canal, to unite its waters with the Mohawk River, on which two other obstructions are canalled, to make the communication good to Schenectady. These improvements are made on the scale of boats carrying ten tons being used on this navigation. Considerable quantities of flour, potash, and salt, are every year sent down by this navigation, and thus the merchants are enabled to make their remittances. So much has the navigation been used, that one hundred boats have been known to arrive at the little town of Geneva in six weeks. In the beginning of the settlement of this country, families, moving in these boats, suffered much from want of shelter in the night; but the number of travellers has induced persons to settle and keep taverns at the most suitable places, where the accommodations are far from being bad. The navigation from the interior county of Ontario into the lake of the same name, is by the Genesee, Rundigut, and SenecaRivers, The Seneca River is formed by the waters of the Seneca Lake, Canadarqua Lake; Mud Creek, and tLt Cayuga Lake, each of which are large and and deep streams, aflording great convenience 114 PAPERS RELATING'TO to the country adjoining them: these meet the Oswego River at Three River Point, which falls into Lake Ontario at Oswego Fort. The importance of this place induced the Legislature of the State of New York to lay out a town, which already affords great convenience to persons trading to and from Canada. The Rundigut lies about five miles east of the Genesee River~ and runs into the country about six miles: at the south extremity of the bay Rundigut Creek forms a very handsome fall of about twenty feet, affording a fine situation for mills, which may be Wo placed that boats might be navigated from Canada to the mill, and there loaded without any trouble. A convenient store-house has already been built, and, during the two last summers, very considerable quantities of provisions and distilled liquor were sent from this place to Canada. In the neighbourhood of this place are several bodies of iron ore*, and it is presumed that works will soon be established for the making of iron. The Genesee River is navigable for sloops of sixty tons from the lake to the falls, a distance of six miles. These falls, which are formed by a continuance of the same ridge that forms the Falls of Niagara, are a succession of four distinct falls within the space of one mile: the highest is ninety feet, but, with the rapids above, the total height is three hundred feet. These falls, for beauty, are not inferior to those of Niagara. A carrying place is made on bthe west side of the river, and it has already a considerable employment. Immediately above the falls the river is navigable for large boats, and continues so for twenty-five miles above Williamsburgh, where it is'again interrupted. At the village of Williamsburgh the Canascraga Creek joins the Genesee River: this creek affords good navigation for near twenty miles, to Dansville, a settlement in the north west corner of Steuben county, only nine miles from the navigable waters of the Caniskeo River, The quantity of provisions and distilled liquorsent from the mouth of the Genesee River is very considerable. Last summer asmall vessel was kept in constant employment in this business. Iron can be brought, by the Susquehannah, from Pennsylvania to Geneva or Bath, and afforded at nearly the same price it is sold for in New-York or Philadelphia.' ,' ~iT" "':'i....i T.J L::",'"' w': gd). iARES',.E It i i____ * S r Io~ig: -,i~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~V ~IX,.,..-.Xul?-v: 4,-2U>,4%,f5 _ > e 04a| SlJ~o~.!2os; eO~t~e~pg tv~tZ Out]. mom J~zg~on 0 ok sows I ~E ~~~_g | | _~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ WESTERN NEW-YORK. 1165 The counties of Ontario and Steuben have also the advantage of being, by a particular law, exempted from all taxation for sixteen years from the year 1790; so that, until the year 1806, they are free of all public burdens, except what may be necessary for the support of their internal regulation: and we find by a late Law for raising by a direct tax, the sum of one hundred and twenty thousand dollars, that this privilege in favour of these counties is expressly guaranteed. LETTER VIII. DEAR SIRn I Shall now endeavour to give you some idea of the route and distance to the Genesee Country from the city of New-York. There are shorter roads than by Albany, but this route being the best and most convenient, the additional travelling is fully compensated for. During the summer months sloops are constantly passing from New-York to Albany: they generally run the distance in two days; and sometimes in one. The road from Albany to the westward goes by Schenectady and the Mohawk River; but at Utica, ninety-six miles from Albany, it is intersected by the Great Genesee Road, at which place you are ninety-nine miles from Geneva, the whole of which distance you will find a well settled country; but, for your guide in making comfortable stages, I have annexed a list of the best taverns on the road, with their respective distance from each other. Should curiosity induce you to visit the Falls of Niagara, you will proceed from Geneva, by the State Road, to the Genesee River, which you will cross at New-Hartford, west of which you will find the country settled for about twelve miles; but after that, for sixty-five miles, to Niagara River, the country still remains a wilderness. This road was used so much last year by people on business, or by those whom curiosity had led to visit the Falls of Niagara, that a station was fixed at the Big Plains to shelter travellers. At this place there are two roads that lead to Niagara River; the south road goes by Buffalo Creek, the other by Tanawandoe Village to Queen's Town Landing. The road by Buffalo Creek is most used both because it is better and because 1166 PAPERS RELATING TO it commands a view of Lake Erie; and the road from this to the Falls is along the banks of Niagara River, a very interesing ride. The river is in no place less than a mile over and the picture is enlivened by a variety of landscapes. Niagara River is the only outlet of Lake Superior, and all those immense lakes that afford, from the falls, an uninterrupted navigation of near two thousand miles to the westward. As you approach Chippaway, a military station two miles above the falls, the rapidity of the river increases, bounding to a great height where it meets with resistance from the inequality of the surface; and this vast body of water at last rushes over a precipice of one hundred and seventy feet. The falls can be viewed from several different places: but they are seen to most advantage below. You can with safety, approach the very edge of the fall, and may even go some distance between the sheet of falling water and the precipice; but this experiment requires caution; the footing is unequal and slipperry; and blasts of condensed air rush out with such violence as to deprive you, for some moments of the power of breathing. From the falls to Queens-Town, the nearest place to which shipping approach the falls, the river is confined within a chasm in the rocks, one hundred and fifty feet deep, and to all appearance cut out by the force of the water. Queens-Town is a neat village, and has all the appearance of a sea-port: it is not uncommon to see at that place several brigs of one hundred tons burthen, and many smaller vessels. The territory opposite to Queens-Town, on the east side, is a reservation belonging to the State of New-York, which the Legislature directed the Surveyor-General to lay out into small lots, for the accommodation of settlers. This place is the key to the trade of the western lakes, and numbers of teams are daily employed between it and Chippaway: the distance by the carrying place now in use, on the Brittish side, is eleven miles: the carrying place formerly in use, on the American side, was only six miles but the mountain forming the falls is more abrupt. Some persons, interested in the countries beyond the falls, had this interruption to the navigation examined by a very respectable engineer, for the purpose of discovering the practicability of making a canal to open the navigation of the western lakes. The fall WESTERN NEW-YORK. 1167 was found to be three hundred and twenty feet from Steedman's Landing, above the falls, to Queens-Town Landing below: the distance to be cut did not exceed four miles, nearly three of which is on level with the navigable part of the river above the falls. I am, &c. The principal Taverns on the Road from Albany to Geneva, and from thence to Niagara, with their Distances. Albany to Schenectady,........................ 16 Schenectady to Bents,......................... 14 Bent's to —---........................... 10 Dewight's,.................................... 16 Hudson's Indian Castle,,........ *..,..*......... 14 Aldridges, German-Flats,.......................... 10 Hotel, Fort-Schuyler,.............. 16 96 From Fort-Schuyler to Laird's on the 10 Great Genesee Road Van Epps's, near the Oneida Reservation.......... 6 Wemp's, in the Oneida Reservation,.............. 6 Sills's, at the Deep Spring,....................... 11 Keelers, junior,...... o......a............... 12 Tyler's, Onondago Hollow,.................... o 10 Rice's, Nine mile Creek,..................,.. 10 Cayuga Ferry,........................... 20 Powel's Hotel, Geneva,..................... 13 98 From Geneva to Canadarqua. Sanburns,e.e...o............................... 16 Searson's, on the State Road,...................... 14 New-Hartford,......................,..... 11 Peterson's, at the Big Spring,................... 6 Ganson's,....,,. o.......,.........a 6 To the Station on the Big Plain,................... 27 To Buffalo Creek,.............,........... 43 123 Miles 317 1168 PAPERS RELATING TO WESTERN NEW-YORK. *, The following note from the Hon: JOHN GREIG to T. RoMEYN BEC ic Esq. M. D. indicating the author of the foregoing Tract, is annexed to the copy in the State Library. "C CANANDAIGUA 29) October 1846. My DEAR SIR, I am favoured with your letter of the 27, instantI very well remember the Pamphlet on the " Settlement of the Genesee Country" to which you refer, and my own recollection of it, and of the Author of it, is fortified by that of Judge Howell, to whom I have shewn your letter. It was written by Capt. Charles Williamson, who came to this country as the Agent of Sir Wm Pulteney and Governor Hornby, for the settlement of their Lands in the Western part of the State of New-York, in the year 1792. He remained as their Agent until the year 1802, when he returned to Europe. lie afterwards made occasional visits to this Country, until the year 1807, when he died of the yellow fever while on a mission from the British Government to the Havanna. Believe me with much regard Yours Sincerely. JOHN GREIG. ) - CD ~ ~ ~ ~ -(i A DESCRIPTION OF THE Gelnesee Country IN THE STATE OF NEW-YORK: IN WHICH THE SITUATION, DIMENSIONS) CIVIL DIVISIONS, SOIL, MINERALS) PRODUCE) LAKES AND RIVERS) CURIOSITIES, CLIMATEI NAVIGATION) TRADE AND MANUFACTURES) POPULATION) AND OTHER INTERESTING MATTERS RELATIVE TO THAT COUNTRY) ARE IMlPARTIALLY DESCRIBED. TO WHICH IS ADDED AN APPENDIX CONTAINING A DESCRIPTION OF XB t ^ili ta ri ~an 5. BY ROBERT MUNRO. NEW-YORK: PRINTED FOR THE AUTHOR. "i;&i:' 18()4 (Copy-Right secured.) VOL. II. 74 REFERENCES TO THE PLATE. A. Genesee River, S. Chataughqua Lake, B. Tioga River, T. Seneca River, C. Conhocton River, U. Oswego River. D. Canisteo River, V. Onondaga River. E. Canawisque River, W. Cayuga Lake, F. Alleghany River, X. Owasco Lake, G. Canowongo River, Y. Skaneatlis Lake, H. JlMud Creek, Z. Salt Lake, I. Tonawanda Creek, AA. Oneida Lake, K. Buffalo Creek, BB. Wood Creek, L. Cattaraugus Creek, CC. Mohawk River, M. Lake Ontario, DD, DD. Susquehanna River. N. Lake Erie, 1. Genesee County, O. Streights of MXagara, 2. Ontario County, P. Seneca Lake, 3. Steuben Coiunty, Q. Crooked Lake, 4. Military Tract. R. Canandarqua Lake, THE country to which the name of GENESEE is given, is the most westerly part of the State of New-York, and is situated between 3 degrees and 5 deg. 50 min. longitude west from New-York city, and between 42 deg. and 43 deg. 15 min. north latitude. Its greatest length from east to west is 125 miles, and its greatest breadth about 95 miles, containing nearly 5 millions of acres. It is bounded south 1172 PAPERS RELATING TO on the north boundary of the State of Pennsylvania; north by the southern shore of Lake Ontario; west by the eastern boundary of Presque-Isle (a flourishing settlement in Pennsylvania) 18 miles; north-west by the south east shore of Lake Erie, 70 miles; west by the streights of Niagara, upwards of 37 miles; and east by a meridian line running due north from the north boundary of Pennsylvania, at the 82d mile-stone, to the south shore of Lake Ontario. Its least distance by road is - to Albany 190 miles, to New-York 245 miles, to Philadelphia 230 miles, to Baltimore 250 miles, to Washington city 280 miles, to Pittsburgh nearly 100 miles, and to Montreal by water 250 miles. Its name is taken from the river Genesee, and signifies in the Indian language a pleasant valley. In the year 1789, Oliver Phelps and Nathaniel Gorham, Esquires, of New England, purchased from the State of Massachusetts the pre-emption right of a large tract of land in the eastern part of this country, under the jurisdiction of the State of New-York; but little was done in the settlement of it until the year 1792, when the roads leading to this country were made and improved, and other extensive improvements were effected; and the progress of the settlement of this country has since been uncommonly rapid. Nearly one half of this country, situated nearest the southern boundary, is generally hilly and broken, consisting however of many fertile tracts of land. The face of the other parts is generally even, a considerable part, on the east of the Genesee river, consisting of low ridges, or gradual swells running parallel with each other, which form handsome uplands and meadows; and on the west of Genesee river the country is more level.* On both sides of Genesee river are large openings which are thinly timbered, very fertile, and could easily be put under cultivation. In the eastern part the country in many places makes a pleasant and flourishing appearance, the settlers having a prevailing practice of building adjoining the public roads, and cultivating lands nearest them. From Canandarqua to Genesee river, a distance of 25 According to the geographical descriptions given of this country, it is erroneously reported as being;a dead level," a description that is only applicable to a small proportion of it. WESTERN NEW-YORK, 1173 miles, the country has the most flourishing appearance, that part being earliest settled, and abounds with very substantial improvements, which are seldom equalled in the United Statesin the pleasantness of their appearance. The quality of the soil is various, butl in the better or most even parts of the country before mentioned, a rich loamy soil is the most common, and it is sometimes covered on the top with a loose black mould, from six to ten inches deep. The most common sorts of timber in these parts of the country is as follows: sugar maple, beech, lyn (here called basswood) oak, ash, and elm; and the hilly parts are mostly timbered with oak. Where the sugar maple and basswood are most common, the land is generally esteemed best for grass, and probably for grain, and is experienced to be durable; and lands which produce mostly beech timber, are considered as generally clayey, wet and cold. A considerable portion of the better part of the country is timbered with oak, and lands on which it is of a large growth are by many esteemed the most durable, although at first -not productive of as good crops as maple lands, and harder in tillage. Grain is frequently put into the ground without ploughing, the ground being only broke with a heavy harrow, and often yields, with this cultivation, upwards of twenty bushels of wheat from an acre. In a considerable portion of the country a rock of limestone lies from 2 to 6 feet under the surface of the earth, and large quantities of the loose stone are sometimes found above the surface, which is manufactured to advantage, and some of the best quality is now used in building. But although the growth of timber usually denotes the sort of soil on which it grows, yet it sometimes happens that the soil varies materially in different places where the same sort of timber grows; and it is observed in some parts that the growth of the young timber is of a different sort from the old. Lands on which the growth of timber almost entirely consists of maple, basswood, and beech, appear to be attended with a scarcity of timber most suitable for fences; although a quantity of oak, elm, ash, &c., is usually found on land of this description, sufficient for the purposes of fencing and building, and basswood rails, when the bark is taken off, are tolerably durable. PAPERS RELATING TO The most useful sorts of timber are, the sugar maple, oak, pine% yellow poplar, (here called white wood) wild cherry, white and black walnut, chesnut, hickory, wild plumb and dogwood. Of shrubs and plants the most noted are, sassafras, wild hops, fox, grapes, in some parts, elder, sumac, raspberry, ginseng, sarsaparilla, snakeroot, spikenard, mandrakes, in taste and flavour much resembling a pine apple, strawberries, whortleberries, cranberries, and wild gooseberries. The sorts of trees and shrubs which are most scarce, are hemlock fir, cucumber tree, white poplar, white and black birch, turmeric tree, spruce pine, locust tree, prickly ash, spice wood, hazel nut, willow, and alder. Fruit, as apples, peaches, plumbs, cherries &c. grows to much advantage, and in some parts are orchards that were raised by the Indians; but fruit trees, in this country, were mostly destroyed in the expedition of General Sullivan against the Indians in the revolutionary war. This country is very favourable for the raising of grass, the uplands usually producing from a ton and a half to two tons an acre, and sometimes three tons. It is uncommonly favourable for wheat, of which, when it is well and early put into the ground, from twenty to twenty-five bushels are usually raised on an acre; but it has been known to yield forty and frequently thirty bushels an acre, and the grain is generally large and of good quality. Corn generally grows to the amount of 30 to 40 bushels on an acre, and in some instances, on the flats of Genesee river and of Mud Creek, it is said, to the extent of 70 and 80 bushels an acre, and is very heavy and substantial in quality. Rye commonly yields a less quantity than wheat; oats, buck wheat, and other sorts of grain, are very productive. Flax and hemp grow very luxuriantly, though in some years the crops of flax are indifferent. Potatoes, turnips, cabbages, onions, and other productions of the gardens, grow to great perfection. Tobacco is raised of a good quality, but as yet not in large quantities: a gentleman from Maryland has raised some thousand plants of it, last fall, and it is believed that it might be advantageously raised for market. Maple sugar is manufactured in such quantities that some of the Inhabitants make from five hundred to upwards of a thousand pounds of it in a season. A tree produces, by boiling down the sap, from two to five pounds WESTERN NEW-YORIK. 1175 of sugar, and it is made near the end of winter, when but little of any other work is done on a farm. The sap of the maple also affords a supply of vinegar, and excellent molasses. Of wild animals, the most remarkable are bears, wolves and deer, which abound most in the hilly parts; also, elks, a large species of deer, weighing five or six hundred pounds, and a few panthers. Foxes, martins, minks, otters, and muskrats, are found here. Sheep are sometimes destroyed by wild animals; but as a liberal reward is allowed for killing these, they become scarce, as population increases. Squirrels are so numerous in some years as considerably to injure corn; and upwards of 2000 of them have sometimes been killed in a day, which is occasionally appointed for that purpose by the inhabitants; the most common kinds of them are the black, and the red; the grey coloured being very scarce. Of reptiles, the most remarkable is the rattle-snake, which is seen mostly in the hilly country. Large numbers of pigeons frequent the country in spring and fall, of which a great many are caught by nets and shooting, and beds are sometimes made of their feathers. There are partridges and quails; and wild fowl and fish are abundant in lake Ontario and the other lakes and in the rivers. In reference to horses, those which have been raised in this country are very thriving. It has been supposed that this country is unfavourable to the raising of horses which are brought from other states, when they are put to feed on the natural pasture and herbage; but it is reported that when they are well kept, and have salt sometimes given them, they are then as healthy as elsewhere. Oxen grow uncommonly large, frequently measuring from six and a half to seven feet and upwards, round the shoulders, and are mostly used for work, being very manageable, and perhaps most suitable for the working of new lands. A larger breed of horned cattle has lately been introduced, and is now raising. Sheep and hogs are very thriving. The growth of cattle is rapid, from the abundance of the herbage natural to the woods, and the excellence of the improved pasture; and a cow commonly brings forth a calf at the age of twenty four months and frequently of twenty months. 1176 PAPERS RELATING TO Several mineral springs have been discovered, one of sulphur situated 12 miles north west of Geneva, is of a sufficient size and fall for an overshot mill, and its scent is conveyed by the wind nearly the distance of two miles. This spring issues out of the ground in different branches, and adjoining it are two large bogs of sulphur, into which a stick may be thrust upwards of'six feet deep. It is supposed that at this spring the manufacture of brimstone would be considerably important. Near this spring a house for eentertainment is opened, which is much frequented, either from motives of pleasure, or the medicinal qualities of the spring. A spring is reported to be discovered near Canandarqua lake, the water flowing from it forming a crust of allum on the adjoining rocks. A salt spring is said to be discovered west from Genesee river; but the Inhabitants are at present plentifully supplied with that valuable article from the salt works in the military lands, at the distance ^f 10 to 60 miles, and is sold and also exchanged for grain, near Geneva, at a dollar a bushel. Near the head of Genesee river there is a remarkable spring, the water issuing from it being covered with a sort of oil called by the Indians Seneca Oil, which is excellent for wounds and other medicinal uses. A considerable quantity of Plaister of Paris was lately discovered near Geneva, which is reported'to be of a good quality. This country is considered as indifferently watered in regard to springs and running water; but it is expected that the further clearing of land will cause a greater plenty of that article, which at present frequently runs under ground by the hollowness which is occasioned by the roots of trees; and a considerable quantity is now probably consumed in the nourishment of timber. Water, is however, readily found by digging wells, commonly 15 to 20 feet in depth, and is not worse in quality than in many of the most populous parts of the United States. The practice of the inhabitants of building adjoining the public roads, often occasions too great a distance from springs, and they might frequently be conveniently supplied with water, were they to build on other parts of their farms. There is however a considerable number of streams suitable for mills, insomuch as the greater part of the inhabitants are not farther distant than a few miles from mills whichare plentifully supplied with water in all seasons. WESTERN NEW-YORK. 1177 As to curiosities, the falls of Niagara and Genesee river, are very remarkable; the falls of Niagara being the greatest curiosity of the sort in the world, falling 157 feet perpendicularly, where the river is three quarters of a mile wide, and are sometimes heard at a distance of 40 or 50 miles, There are many remains of antient fortifications, a chain of which appears to extend from the lower end of lake Ontario to the west of the Ohio river. These forts afford much speculation concerning their origin, but the most probable conclusion is that they were erected by the French upon their first settlement in America, about 200 years ago. The following are the principal rivers and lakes: Genesee river, rising in Pennsylvania, runs a northeasterly course of above 100 miles, and empties into lake Ontario. It is situated 40 miles west from Seneca Lake, and is boatable nearly 50 miles, but its navigation is interrupted by some falls. On this river are extensive and very rich bottoms, which are in some parts nearly two miles wide, and are partly overflowed in the spring season; in consequence of which the inhabitants near them are subject to agues and other bilious complaints. Its flats are in some parts cleared of timber for several thousand acres, which are covered with very high and thick grass. The Tioga river receives the waters of the Cawanisque, Canisteo, and Conhocton rivers, and flows about 8 miles through the south-east corner of this country to the Susquehanna river at Tioga Point. From this river, arks are loaded with 1200 bushels of grain, boats and rafts of lumber, proceed to markets on the Susquehanna river, and even to the city of Baltimore.* In the spring of 1804, it is supposed that 50 or 60 arks and boats; laden with produce from this country, besides many rafts, were floated down this river to the Susquehanna. Conhocton river rises near the east of Genesee river, and running a south easterly course, empties into Tioga river. From this river, *It is expected that a great part of the produce of this country, will soon be transported to the Philadelphia market, by a turnpike road, which is nearly completed, between Niscopack, on the Susquehannah, and the river Lehigh, which discharges itself into the Delaware river; the distance of the road being 23 miles. By this route, it is said, the most difficult falls on the Susquehannah may be avoided, and produce will command the highest prices. Produce which is transported down Susquehannah river, is insured Mr. Goldsborough at Newtown. 1178 PAPERS RELATING TO arks loaded with 1200 bushels of wheat, boats and rafts of lumber, are floated by Tioga and Susquehanna rivers to markets in the lower parts of Pennsylvania and Maryland, every spring, sometimes in summer, and commonly in the fall, and loaded boats navigate from Susquehanna into this river until midsummer. Canisteo river rises south from Conhocton river, and running nearly in the same direction empties into Tioga river. It is navigable for arks, boats and rafts, for about 40 miles in spring and fall. The Canawisque runs south from Canisteo, empties into Tioga river, and is navigable in spring and fall. Mud Creek rises east from Genesee river, and runs a north easterly course to Seneca river. It is navigated by boats from Lyons, 14 miles north from Seneca Lake, and about 15 miles from its junction with Seneca river; from whence boats proceed to the neighbourhood of Albany, or into Lake Ontario. On this creek are very fertile and extensive flats, which are overflowed in freshets. Alleghany river rises in Pennsylvania, near the Southern boundary, and runs in this country a westerly course 46 miles, thence southerly to Pittsburgh, on the Ohio river. It is navigable by arks and boats in the spring season, from this country to the Ohio, or to the Gulph of Mexico. The Conowongo river rises east from Lake Erie, running southerly to its junction with Alleghany river. This river at the distance of only 9 miles from Lake Erie, is boatable into the Alleghany river. Tonawanda creek rises west from Genesee river, runs a westerly course and falls into the streights of Niagara; it is navigable by boats several miles. Buffalo creek rises south from Tonawanda creek, runs a westerly course, emptying itself into the streights of Niagara. The lands on this creek are remarkably good in quality. Lake Ontario; by which this country is bounded on the north, is about 180 miles in length, and about 60 miles in breadth. Its shores are watered by many creeks and inlets, which form excellent harbours for vessels; and the adjoining lands are generally fertile. 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From this lake large boats proceed by the River St Lawrence, nearly to Montreal, a large, populous and commercial city in Canada, where considerable quantities of produce and lumber from this State and Vermont, are sold, and shipping take in cargoes for Europe and the West Indies. From this lake, also, by Oswego and Onondago rivers, Oneida lake, Wood Creek, and Mohawk river, navigation is extended to the Atlantic Ocean, only with the interruption of 16 miles by land from Schenectady to Albany. Navigation is continued from this lake, with the intervention of two carrying places not exceeding the distance of 23 miles, by lake Erie, to the waters of the Ohio and Mississippi rivers. Lake Erie, by which this country is partly bounded on the northwest, is nearly 300 miles in length, and nearly 40 miles in breadth. It is navigated by some sloops, and from hence there is carrying place of 14 miles to Le Beuf, in Pennsylvania, near the head waters of French Creek, which is navigable by boats to Alleghany river, and from thence to the Ohio; and by this route quantities of salt, which is transported from the Military Lands, are conveyed to Pittsburgh. This communication was used by the French before the taking of Fort Pitt from them by the English in 1758, and it is probable that by it, goods could be transported from New York and Albany to the Ohio, at less expense than by any other. There are also communications from the waters of this lake to the Ohio, by the Muskingum and Scioto rivers. Navigation is interrupted from lake Erie to Lake Ontario by a carrying place of 9 miles at the falls of Niagara. Seneca lake is situated on the Eastern line of this country, and is 35 miles in length, and from 2 to 4 miles wide. It stretches in a direction nearly from south to north, forming a handsome sheet of wholesome water, of great depth, and never freezes over in winter; and in summer, a bottle being let down under the surface, is filled with cool and pure water. It is navigated by a sloop and perriauger, besides boats, and by its outlet boats proceed by Seneca and Onondago rivers to Schenectady. From this lake also, boats proceed by Seneca and Oswego river into lake Ontario, and from thence to Montreal, &c. From the head of this lake, there is a 1180 PAPERS RELATING TO Carrying place of 22 miles by land, to Newtown, on Tioga rivetr to which place considerable quantities of produce are transported, and from whence they are floated to markets on the Susquehanna river. Crooked lake is situated 8 miles west from Seneca lake, is 20 miles long, and 2 or 3 miles wide. From this lake there is a carrying place of 7 miles to the Conhocton river, where it is boatable in spring and in fall to the Susquehanna. A considerable part of the lands adjoining it are reported to be of the best quality. Canandarqua lake is situated 20 miles west from Seneca lake, is nearly 20 miles in length, and 2 miles in breadth. Chataughqua lake is situated near lake Erie, and is nearly 15 miles in length. The lands near this lake are very rich. Mud lake, Honeyoy, Hemlock and Canesus lakes are situated from 10 to 35 miles west from Seneca lake, are from 6 to 10 miles long, and from them are easy carrying places by land to the boatable waters of Susquehanna. The climate appears to be subject to changes, which is probably caused by the neighbourhood of the immense bodies of water contained in the lakes by which this Country is partly bounded. These lakes also are probably the cause of the mildness of the climate in summer and winter; for the air passing over extensive bodies of water which are of nearly the same degree of coldncss in summer as in winter, and freeze not in winter, is more uniform in its temperature than it would be if it passed over land. The northerly and westerly winds which occasion an extraordinary coldness in winter, spring and fall, on the East side of the Alleghany mountains, by blowing from the high and cold tract of country composed of those mountains, are tempered in this country by passing over the extensive bodies of water which are situated on the northern and western bounds; and the south wind does not produce those frequent changes in winter which are injurious to the raising of grain in the easterly parts of the states.-Whilst the neighbourhood of these lakes also renders the air in summer cool.and temperate; and the nights, very few excepted, are so cool as to admit of sleeping under blankets. The heat of summer in this country is accordingly more temperate than in the eastern parts of WESTERN NEW-YORK. 1181 the states, which are situated even in a more northerly latitude; and the frosts in winter are remarked as less violent than in the middle states. In most parts the climate is healthy, particularly as a newly settled country, of which an inconsiderable part is yet improved; though in the neighbourhood of marshes and stagnated waters the inhabitants are subject to agues and other bilious complaints. Once in three or four years, as is the case in most countries, it has been sickly in many parts. The fall of 1801, was probably as sickly a season as any one since the earliest settlement; which is imputed to an uncommon wetness of the weather, occasioning much stagnated water. The prevailing sickness, which was the bilious fever, proved however not very mortal to the sick; and the' number of deaths was most probably not more than one for every two hundred inhabitants. Trees usually put forth leaves, the earliest sorts in the first week of May, and oak and other later sorts near the 25th of that month. Corn is planted from the 15th to the 25th and by some near the 1st of May. Rye begins to ripen, and hay is begun to be cut near the 4th of July, and near the 20th July wheat harvest is begun. Water commonly begins to be frozen near the first week of October, and snow usually falls near the 20th of November; but cattle are sometimes kept in pasture until January, and on the flats of Genesee, nearly the whole winter. Snow commonly lies about nine inches deep. In the beginning of the year 1800, snow fell in most places about three feet deep, but there is no other instance known of so great a fall of it. The continuation of snow, besides its usefulnes to grain, renders sleighs common and convenient for the transportation of produce to market, a pair of horses travelling, with thirty bushels, at the rate of 35 or 40 miles in a day. The winters usually break up about the middle of March. The cheapness and fertility of land in this country, together with its easy communications with different markets, and the temperateness, and healthiness of the climate in general, are advantages, not possessed in an equal degree in other new settlements, which render this country an object worthy of attention to those who wish their estates in a few years to increase in extent 1182 PAPERS RELATING TO and value. The price of the best lands, not improved, on the east of the Genesee river, is commonly from two to four dollars an acre, and one hundred acres, having twenty or thirty acres improved, and a house and barn, are sold from six to twenty dollars an acre. On the west of the Genesee river, the best unimproved lands sell from one and a half to two and a half dollars an acre, and may be purchased on a credit of six to ten years. Lands that are now selling at four dollars an acre, were sold twelve years ago at only the same number of shillings an acre, and the advance of their value in the course of 10 or 15 years hence will most probably be very considerable. A farm may probably be purchased in the cheapest manner by buying land without any improvement. Three men with a yoke of oxen may clear and fence, and sow or plant ten acres in five or six weeks, and also build a comfortable house; and such improvement may be hired at the rate of ten or twelve dollars an acre and 50 to 100 dollars for a log house. If an improvement is made in the early part of spring, a sufficient supply of corn and spring wheat may be raised the first season for a family; and cattle may be well kept in the woods. There are many instances of cattle being kept throughout the winter only by browsing, or eating the tops of basswood and some other sorts of trees cut down for them; although hay may be purchased cheap and in abundance. This country contains three counties, viz.: Ontario, Steuben and Genesee, which are subdivided into townships, commonly six miles square. The whole number of inhabitants is nearly 30,000, of which number the county of Ontario alone contains about 20,000 in the limits of 45 miles square. The number of votes given in Ontario and Genesee counties in spring 1804, for 3 Members of.Assembly, by which an idea may be formed of the population of each township, is as follows:-Canandarqua, 272, Hartford 134, Bloomfield 405, Palmyra 198, Genesee 118, Jerusalem 37, Easton 163, Williamson 51, Charleston 173, Bristol 188, Northfiehl 168, Sodus 53, Augusta 120, Middletown 87, Seneca 303, Pittstown 183, Farmington 142, Yernon 217, Phelps 265, Sparta 95, Batavia 220, Leicester 81, Southampton 114, and Northampton 80. In all 3865 votes, of which 1838 were republican, and 2027 called federal. WESTERN NEW-YORK. 1183 Canandarqua is the chief town of Ontario County, and consists of about 70 dwelling houses, many of which are well built, and some are elegant. The principal street is spacious, extending in a straight line upwards of a mile from the lake of the same name, and rising by a gradual ascent, makes a very pleasant appearance. The houses have generally a lot of land under cultivation belonging to each, and many of its inhabitants are wealthy in circumstances. It has a convenient court house, in which public worship is performed by a Minister of the Congregational persuasion; a handsome jail, a large academy nearly finished, which is said to be well provided for; several well supplied stores, in which goods are sold on moderate terms; several considerable distilleries, a large tan-yard, in which is manufactured a large quantity of leather, a market for butcher meat, several convenient inns, and two printing offices, in which have been printed nearly 1,800 papers weekly. Geneva contains about 70 dwelling houses, and is handsomely situated near the outlet of Seneca lake. It has a large and elegant hotel, kept in the best manner, two school houses, one of which is occasionally used for public worship by a presbyterian minister, several well supplied stores, 3 considerable distilleries, a brewery, and a market for butcher meat, of which 1,500 pounds is killed weekly. It is a place of considerable business, and from hence large quantities of wheat and other produce are sent to the head of Seneca lake, and thence to market on the Susquehanna,. Flour, potash, and other productions of the country are also transported from this place to Albany &c. Bath is the chief town of Steuben county, and is situated on the Conhocton river. It consists of about 30 houses, and thence many arks, boats and rafts, are floated in Spring and sometimes in fall to the Susquehanna; and flour has been transported from this place to Baltimore at less than a dollar for the carriage of a barrel. Batavia is the chief town of Genesee County, and is situated 30 miles west from Genesee river. It contains about 30 houses built within a few years, and a handsome Courthouse. The most noted place besides these, is Niagara, situated at the 1184 PAPERS RELATING TO mouth of the Niagara river, and remarkable as, an antient fortification, and one of our principal posts. The manners and customs of the inhabitants are different, and resemble those in the several States from which they have emigrated; the greater part being from the New England States. Between Geneva and Canandaigua are many families from Pennsylvania, New-Jersey, and Maryland; and there are several families from England and Scotland. The Inhabitants are generally an industrious and civil people. There are but few black people, and those that are born in this State are by law allowed their freedom after the age of 28; but those from other States continue as Slaves during life. The blacks have an attachment to this country, as they live well, and have an example of industry from the settlers. There are but few ministers of the gospel yet settled, but schools are numerous and well provided for. A turnpike road is now completed from Albany to Canandarqua, at a great expense, which is discharged by tolls, and renders traveling and carriage of produce to market much easier when the rivers are not navigable. Waggons now frequently carry loads of fourteen barrels of flour to Albany, and return with an equal weight, and sometimes carry two tons, going and returning in fourteen days. A mail stage runs from Canandarqua to Albany twice a week. Trade is yet in its infancy and has much increased within a few years. Grain is sent in considerable quantities from Seneca lake and the Cohocton, Canisteo, Canawisque, and Tioga rivers, to markets on Susquehanna river; and flour, pqtash, and other produce to Albany; and a considerable quantity of grain has for some years past been exported by sleighs in winter to the west of Albany. Whiskey is distilled in considerable quantities, and mostly consumed in the country, and is also exported to Canada and to Susquehanna. The produce of the country is received by storekeepers in payment for goods, and with horses and cattle, is paid for land. Several thousand bushels of grain have been purchased in the winter beginning this year, 1804, for money at Newtown and at mills near Cayuga lake. Hemp is raised on Genesee river and carried to Albany. Droves of cattle and horses are sent to WESTERN NEW-YORK. 1185 different markets, and a considerable number of cattle and other provisions, are used at the markets of Canandarqua and Geneva, at Niagara, and by settlers emigrating into the country. Cattle commonly sell for money at a good price, and as this country is very favorable for raising them, they will probably become the principal article for market; many being of opinion that the raising of stock is more profitable as well as easier than any mode of farming. The following is a list of prices of articles, and the rates of wages since January 1801: Wheat, from 62 cents to 1 dollar a bushel - Corn from 37 to 50 cents a bushel-Rye from 50 cents to 62 cents, a bushel-Hay froim 6 to 12 dollars a ton-Butter and Cheese, 10 to 16 cents a pound-a yoke of oxen, 50 to 80 dollars-milk cows from 16 to 25 dollars-Cattle for driving, 3 to 4 dollars a 100 lb-A pair of good working horses, 100 to 125 dollars-Sheep from 2 to 4 dollarsPork, fresh killed in winter, 4 to 6 dollars a hundred, and salted in spring, 8 to 10 dollars-Whiskey from 50 to 75 cents a gallon -Salt, 1 dollar a bushel weighing 56 pounds-Field ashes, 4 to 9 cents a bushel:-600 bushels may be manufactured into a ton of pot or pearl Ash, which has been sold at market at 125 to 130 dollars; and some persons by saving their ashes, or by manufacturing them, have nearly cleared the cost of improving land-The wages of a laborer, 10 to 15 dollars a month, and board-A suit of clothes made at 4 to 5 dollars-A pair of shoes, 175 to 250 cents Store goods are sold at very moderate prices, the expense of carriage from Albany to New-York being about two dollars a hundred weight. voL. II. 75 CONTAINING A DESCRIPTION OF THE MILITARY LANDS IN THE STATE OE NEw-YORK. The military tract was granted by the Legislature of New-York as a gratuity to the officers and soldiers of the line of this state, which served in the American revolution. This tract contains a million and a half of acres, and is divided into 25 townships, containing 60,000 acres each, which are again subdivided into lots of 640 acres each. It is bounded west by the counties of Ontario7 and Steuben in the Genesee country, on the north by lake Ontario about 10 miles to fort Oswego; thence on the east by Oswego river; thence on the north by Onondago river and part of Oneida lake; on the east by Oneida and Chenango counties, and on the south by Tioga county; and is in length 60 miles, and 55 miles in breadth. The face of the country is generally even, but not level. On each side of Cayuga lake the land rises very gradually for some miles, and in the other parts it generally consists of gentle swellings; but the eastern parts are broken into hills of gradual ascent. The quality of the land is, with little exception, of the best sort, being in general loamy, and is nearly the same as described in Genesee; as are also the timber, productions and animals. The following are the rivers and lakes:The Seneca river issues out of Seneca lake. It is joined by the outlet of Cayuga, and by Mud Creek from the west; and by Onondago river from the east. From the junction of Onondago river to Oswego, where it discharges itself into lake Ontario, it is called Oswego river. The course of navigation from this river to Schenectady, by Onondaga river, Oneida lake, Wood Creek and the Mohawk river1 is already mentioned. Cayuga lake, situated 10 miles east from the western bounds, is 40 miles in length, and from 2 to 4 miles in breadth, extending in a north-westerly course, and makes a handsome appearance. It PAPERS RELATING TO WESTERN NEW-YORK. 1187 is well stored with fish. From this lake boats proceed by Seneca river &c, to the neighbourhood of Albany, or into lake Ontario; and from its head, produce is transported 30 miles to Owego, on the north branch of Susquehanna, from whence arks, boats, and rafts are floated to markets on Susquehanna river. Owasco lake is about twelve miles long, and is well stored with fish. The lands adjoining it are remarkably excellent. Skeneatelis lake is nearly 16 miles in length. Otisco lake is about 8 miles in length. Onondago lake is situated near the north eastern parts. Salt is manufactured at springs adjoining this lake, in a reservation of land belonging to the State, in very considerable quantities. The salt weighs 56 pounds a bushel, and it is sold at the works at two dollars a barrel, containing five bushels, and sometimes cheaper. From these works the western parts of this state are cheaply supplied with salt, and considerable quantities of it are transported to Canada in the neighbourhood of lake Ontario and lake Erie and to the Ohio. The salt springs appear to be inexhaustible, and sufficient for the supply of works of any extent. Iron ore has lately been discovered in the neighbourhood of this lake, where a furnace has been erected, and is worked to advantage....Slate appears to abound in some places between Seneca and Cayuga lakes, and adjoining the head of Seneca lake. Seneca lake, which is situated on the western bounds, is before described. The eastern and southern parts are partly watered by Chenango river, which is boatable in spring to Susquehanna river, and from thence boats and arks proceed to Baltimore; and by Salmon creek, Fall creek, besides many lesser streams. This country is divided into three counties; viz. Seneca, Cayuga, and Onondaga. Population has been uncommonly rapid, notwithstanding the discouragements proceeding from disputed titles to these military lots, several deeds having been frequently granted for the same lots, and nearly one third of these titles are yet undetermined, though they are expected to be shortly ascertained by commissioners who are appointed for that purpose by the state legislature. The number of inhabitants amounts nearly to 30,000. Between Seneca and Cayuga lakes, the settlers are mostly from 1 188 PAPERS RELATING TO WESTERN NEW-YORK. Pennsylvania, Jersey and the Eastern parts of this state, and in the other parts, they are mostly emigrants from the New England States. The most considerable village is Aurora, which is pleasantly situated near the Cayuga lake, and contains about 25 dwelling houses, several stores and an academy. Cayuga village is situated near the outlet of Cayuga lake, and consists of about twenty dwelling houses, and several stores. The Cayuga bridge is built over the lake at this village; it is in length nearly a mile, and cost 25000 dollars, which is defrayed by a toll. Levana village contains 20 houses. At this village, Mr. Richardson some years ago had 425 acres under a crop of wheat, which produced 12,000 bushels. The turnpike road to Albany is before described, and on some parts of it are buildings land improvements closely adjoining to each other, which have the appearance of villages. This road in the year 1792, was only an Indian path, a little improved, and settled only with a few stragling huts 10 or 20 miles from each other, for the distance of nearly 100 miles; and was then the only road leading to this country and Genesee. Many parts of the country are well improved and make a pleasant and flourishing appearance. From this country a considerable quantity of produce is transported to Owego on Susquehanna River and to New town, at which places a considerable part was, in winter beginning 1804, sold for money, and from those places was floated in arks and boats to markets on the lower parts of Susquehanna. Wheat is also, sold for money at mills, at which it is floured; and wheat is transported to Albany. A considerable quantity of produce is carried by sleighs in winter to markets on the Mohawk river.. Potash is often manufactured and transported to Albany. Whisky is distilled in considerable quantities. Cattle, particularly cowsa and sheep, always command a liberal price in money, and grain and other produce are sold for money to settlers emigrating into this country. The prices of produce is nearly the same as in the Genesee country. . " ke..-O f:e?S \'3w/^7- -/ \ |:!; ^<~ - 977-> ^,j ^a 0 7 — ^- / \ T.: ^ ___ r'42~~ 5 a -)'I I -M — 7 — _ | -~ve B oo_____-__-_, —,e________________________ Sal t SprzV ie^.W-hte is69zoa~ee77e WESTERN NEW YORK IasNe~n'e 1809. -SzzpwSp7t y ~'~"-""-'~'-~'"" -''WESTERN ~EW YORK ~~ 1809.:..z/./,~-xx~.~.........~~~~Ge-ae INDEX. A. Abraham the Mohawk Chief, Speech for, 283; names of the aldermen and of, 581. assistants when Leisler got possesAcadia, operations of the French on sion of, 304; proceedings of the the coast of, 47. Prov. Congress at, in 1754, 545, et Act, an, reversing the Attainder of seq.; Indian account of the grant of Jacob Leisler and others, 435. ground to the whites to build a Address, an, to the English freemen of town at, 598; the Indians dissatisfied the Prov., affixed to the door of the with a purchase of land concluded Custom house of N. Y., 50. by Pennsylvania at, 752, 759; the Admiralty, proc. of a court of, in Leis- lower Mohawk flatts granted to ler's time, 291, 295. the Corporation of, 881; Sir Wm. Affidavits against Lt. Gov. Nicholson, Johnson's obs. on the bill for divid11, 12, 27, 28; against Col. Bayard, ing the county of, 955; description et al. ib. of the country between Niagara and, Agreement between the Col. of Conn. in 1782, 1105; distance from the and the Convention at Albany, con- Genesee country to, 1111; from Oncerning troops, 119; between New tario county to, 1130; description of York, Maryland & New England re- a journey to the Genesee country in garding operations ag'st the French, 1792 from, 1131. 239. Agricultural produce, prices of in Albany, King William and Queen Mary Western New-York in 1791, 1119; in proclaimed at, 7; King James' sol- 1799, 1148. diers keep the fort of, 32; an elec- Alexandria, minutes of the council of tion of Mayor and Aldermen of, or- Governors held at, 648. dered, 52; names of the persons re- Aliens allowed to hold real property commended by Leisler to be chosen in the state of New-York, 1155. Magistrates of, ib.; proceedings of Allegany mountains, the line separathe Anti-Leisler Convention at, 80, ting Pennsylvania from Maryland to et seq. (see Convention). answer of be run west of the, 853; a new the magistrates of, to the Ononda- Prov. proposed to be erected west goes, 86; assists the Mohawks to of the, 998; river, course of the, build their new castle at Tionondage, 1178. 87; Measures adopted for the repair Allen, John, Secy. of Connecticut, letof the fortifications of, 88; subscrip- ter from Jacob Leisler to, 15; from, tions of the citizens of, 93; propo- to Leisler, 34, 76, 169, 189, 232, 225, sals of the Convention to the inhabi- 253, 284, 288, 383; from, to Secy. tants of, 109; answer thereto, 110; Clarkson, 332. letter of the Corn. of Safety of N. Andros, Sir E., charged with having Y. to the magistrates of, 115; ex- carried away the New-Yorlk Recitement at, 122; JochemStaatselec- cords, 4; reported to have escaped, ted Captain of the fort at, ib; rea- 22; legality of the commissions sons given by the mayor for securing of, vindicated, 36; the friends of, the fort of, 128; orders issued by offer a reward for his rescue, 38; Leisler;s Commissioners at, 191, et ordered to England, 47; all persons seq; two representatives for, elected, holding commissions from, to be ar205; the Leisler party take posses- rested, 71; sails in the Mehitabel, sion of the fort at, 227; small pox 72. prevails in, 252; dysentery preva- Animals, wild, in western New-Yorlk lent at, 253; writ for the election of 1112, 1175. an additional member of Assembly 1190 INDEX. Anthony, N., letters of, to the Corn- petitions of John Fitch and Henry missioners at Albany, 231, 234. Voight to the Pennsylvania House Anti-Leisler party at Albany, proceed- of, 1082; letter of John Fitch to the ings of the, 80, et seq. (see Covbn.) speaker of the New-York, 1084; reAntil Edward, ordered to be arrested, port on John Fitch's petition to the 70. Pennsylvania, 1086; petitions of Jn. Appointment of a Council, by Lt. Gov. Fitch to the New-York, 1087, 1093; Leisler. 45. petitions of James Rumsey to the Arks on the western waters, descrip- New-York, 1088, 1091, 1095; report tion of the, 1150, 1161. on the petition of James Rumsey and Arrests ordered by Leisler, 44, 60, 74, John Fitch to the New-York, 1092; 81, 190, 263, 264, 274, 275. votes regarding the petitions of Jas. Assembly, Leisler's proc. convoking a Rumsey and John Fitch in the Virlegislative, 282, 290; writs for the ginia, 1097; petition of John Stevens election of new members of, 282, Jun. to the New-York, 1102. 283; resolves against Leisler and his Assessors, order for the election of, party, passed by the New-York, 366; 320. executionofLeislerand Milborne ap. Attainder of Jacob Leisler and others, proved by the, 375; James Rumsey's an act reversing the, 435. petition to the Pennsylvania, 1047; Aurora village, 1188. B. Bane, Colonel, dismissed by the king Beekman, Gerard, one of Leislerr: for having insisted, in a speech, on Council, 45,49; letter of, to the people further allowance for American sol- of Queens, 334; arrested, 359; petidiers, 807. tions Gov. Sloughter, 360, 361, 368; Barbadoes, Leislers letters to, 40, 46, his wife petitions Sloughter in his 243. behalf, 369; petitions Gov. Fletcher Barlev, price of, in 1799, in western to be released, 413; claims the proNew-York, 1148. tection of the government, 414; Wilb Bartles, Mr. FredeTick, commences liam, writ to elect a representative settlements near Mud Lake, 1135; for the city of New-York, in the quantity of timber exported by, 1159. place of, 283; bond entered into by, Batavia, description of, in 1804, 1183. 370. Bath, first settlement of the town of, Bellomont, Earl of, petitions of Leis1134; shiretuwn of Steuben county, ler men to, 419, 420. 1135; population of, in 1796, ib; first Bermudas, Lcisler's letter to the Gov. newspaper at, 1136; weekly market of the, 271. at, 1141; further improvements in, Bethlehem, a fort ordered to be erect1146; Gazette, circulation of, in 1799, ed in the town of, 90. 1152; number of deer killed annually Bill, a, confirming to the inhabitants in former times in the neighborhood of New-York the full benefits of the of, 1155; description of, in 1804, 1183. Laws of England, 355; a, fining all Battle of Lake George, official account persons who refuse commissions of the, 691; officers killed at the, 693; under Leisler, or who may depart map showing the locality of the, from the counties of Albany or Ul696; list of certain companies that ster without leave, 356. served at the, ib. Birthplaces of the soldiers newly enBaxter, Captain, a Papist, 32, 426. listed by Leisler, 9. Bayard, Colonel N., affidavits against, Blagge, Capt. Benjamin, captures a 28; denounces Leisler and vindicates French ship, 40; memorial to His the commissions of Andros, 36; ab- Majesty sent by, 55; sent delegate sconds from New-York, 39; warrant to Connecticut, 75; proceeds to Bosissued to arrest, 62; is arrested, ib., ton, 247; sent by Leisler as his agent 182; petitions Leisler, explaining his to England, 268; memorial of, to conduct, 63; writes to the Earl of the King referred to Gov. Sloughter, Shrewsbury and Sec. Blathwayte, 360; answer to the memorial carried 65; why he returned to New-York, to England by, 388. ib; lays claim to the King's letter Blathwayt, Sec'y, letter from governaddressed to Lt. Gov. Nicholson, 66; or and council of New-York to, jusdisclaims all intention of overthrow- tifying Leisler and Milborne's exing the government, ib; complains ecution, 381. of being confined in irons, and prays Blue Stocking, speech of, to the Alfor pardon, 67; representations a- bany magistrates, 155. gainst Leis er supposed to be from, Board of Trade, letter from the, to Sir 388, 391; claim of, for damages suf- Danvers Osborne, 555; from Gen. fered during LeislerFs administration, Johnson to the, 644, 674, 684, 698, 393, 424. 708, 712; from the, to Gen. Johnson, INDEX. 1191 0i); report of the, to the King, re- Braddock's bay settled, 1134. garding lands west of the Allega- Bradstreet, Gov., communicates intelnies, 704. ligence of the French operations on Bollen, George, appointed to the corn- the coast, 47; letter of, to Leisler, mand of a sloop in the expedition 259. against Canada, 251. Brockholst, Major Anthony, a rank Bonrepos, Rev. D., minister at New papist, 32; ordered to be arrested, Rochelle, letter from, to Leisler, 60, 74. 304. Brookhaven, antient rate lists of the Boston, Leisler's letters to, 3, 5, 22, town of, 468, 532. 24, 31, 37, 39, 184, 186, 225, 227; pro- Brooklyn, rate lists of the town of, ceedings against Sir E. Andros at, 475, 498. [ approved by the King, 47; small Browne, Thomas, a member for Westpox prevails at, 72; governor of, chester ordered to be elected in conwarns the people of Albany of their sequence of the decease of, 238. danger, 97; fits out vessels against Buffalo creek, course of the, 1178. the French, 230; troops from, order- Bull, Capt. Jonathan, 98; arrives at ed to New Hampshire, 259. Albany, 132; withdraws with the Boudinot, Elias, ordered to be arrest- Connecticut troops, 210. ed, 263. Bushwick, rate lists of the town of, Boundary of the Genesee country, 482, 493. 1171; of the Military tract, 1186. Butler, Col., treats with the Indians Braddock, Gen., appoints Col. John- at Niagara, 1108. son agent for Indian affairs, 644; at- Byrne, Mr., commissary at the Oneida tends a council at Alexandria, 648; blockhouse, 805. proposes an attack on Crown Point and Niagara, 649. C. Caghnawaga patent, boundary lines of Catalogue of the books and papers in the, disturbed, 816. Boston belonging to New-York, Caledonia, a Scotch settlement in Leisler demands a, 185. Western New-York, particulars of, Catharine's town, 1115, 1137. 1156. Cattaraqui fort, N. Rust commissionCanada, journal of Capt. John Schuy- ed to destroy, 53; abandoned by the ler's expedition into, 285; John French, 137, 138, 140; Indians march I'art's information regarding, 666; to the attack of, 259. effects of the conquest of, on the re- Cawonisque creek, 1133. lations of the English towards the Cayuga, number of houses in 1792, beIndians, 899. tween Ononlaga, and, 1106; in 1804, Canada-saga lake, (see Seneca.) 1188; Lake, descrip. of, 1186. Canandaigua, facts relating to the -- Bridge, length and cost of, early settlement of, 1107, 1115, 1119, 1188. 1121, 1131, 1132, 1136, 1141; distance Ceremony observed by the authorities from the Genesee river to, 1172; of Albany in protesting against Leislake, 1180; description of, in 1804, ler, 154. 1183. Certificates in support of James RumCanandarqua, or Canadaqua, (see Ca- sey's steamboat, 1020, et seq.; in fanbandaiguea.) vor of John Fitch's claim to the inCanascraga river, 1160, 1164. vention of the steamboat, 1059, et Ganastagione attacked by the French seq. and Indians, 235. Chain belt presented to the Six NaCai'awisque river, course of the, 1178. tions, explanation of the, 567. Canesus lake, 1180. Chambers, Major Thos., ordered to Canisteo, course of the river, 1160, raise men in Ulster county, to de1178. fend the Frontiers, 313. Capitulation of the Albany garrison to Chamblee Lake, a French force on the, Leisler's commissioners, 192. 269.. Carleton, Lt. Gov., prejudiced in favor Chataughqua Lake, 1180. of the Canadians, 854; is new in In- Cheemung town, population of, in dian affairs, 856; authorizes traders 1791, 1116; river, 1159. to go wherever they please, ib.; Cheese manufactured in western Newsends his nephew with letters to York, 1148. Gen. Johnson. in favor of a Cana- Chenossio Indians, location of the, 782. dian, 857. Cheerokees, Speech of the, to Sir WilCarrying places in 1792, between Al- liam Johnson, 765; traders murdered bany and Genesee, 1107. by the, 848; never claimed the terriCasco bay, the English post at, de- tory westward of the mountains, noi stroyed, 259. north of the river of their name, 917, 1192 INDEX. Oheseldyn Kenelm, speaker of the Ma- against the French, 240; to Captain ryland Assembly, letter to Leisler, Wm. Mason to command a ship afrom, 211. gainst the French, 250; to Captains Chuctenunda, mention of Sir P. War- Frs. Goderis, Geo. Bollen, Gerret ren's patents at, 824. Hardenburgh, John Swinton, to comChurch, Joseph, Gov. Sloughter's re- mand vessels, 251; to John Winthrop primand of, 373. to command the forces against the Glarkson, Secy. Matthew, 72; letter of, French, 281; for holding a court o to Gov. Treat, 327; urges Col. Wil- admiralty, 291, 295, to appraise yeslet to bring in his men to New York, sels, 298; to Jochem Staas, J. Wen332; John Allyn recommends pa- del, J. Bleeker, P. Bogardus, Ryer tience to, ib.; calls men from Flat- Schermerhorn, to be commissioners bush, 335; from Suffolk, 336; writes for the city and county of Albany, to Col. Downley, ib.; to Major In- 303; to Arnout Viele to be Indian goldesby, lb.; to Capt. Jackson, of agent at Onondaga, 314; to Major InHIempstead, for men, 338; urges goldesby to command the troops aGovernor Treat, of Conn., to send a gainst Leisler at New-York, 339; list force against Leisler, 339. of the, issued by Lt. Gov. Leisler, Climate, the, of western New-York, 347; of the delegates to the Prov. 1119, 1145, 1180. Congress at Albany, in 1754, from OrINTON, Gov., letters of, to Col. Wm. Mass., 545; N. Hamp., 546; Conn., Johnson, 619, 621, 624, 630; orders 547; R. Island, 548; Penn., 549; Maall papers and records relating to ryland, 551; to Hon. Wm. Johnson, Indian affairs to be delivered to Col. as Major-General of the Prov. forces, Johnson, 622; complaint against 651, 653. Gov. Dinwiddie to, 624; orders a Commissioners, (Leisler's,) names of general Indian council to be held at the, at Albany, 191; resolve to reOnondaga, 629: is about to return to tain the Connecticut troops, ib; forEngland on account of ill health, bidall recriminations between citi631. zens, 192; and the departue of any Coddrington, Col., Gov. Sloughter's persons from the county between letter to, giving his reasons for the ages of 14 and 60, 193; call on executing Leisler and Milborne, R. Livingston to deliver up the Rec. 380. of the city of Albany, 194; make a Coe, sheriff, ordered to search for the requisition on New York and Albany records of Queens county, 59. for certain stores, 195; order a party Cohoes falls, 1105. to Crown Point, 197; to Otter Creek, GOLDEN, Lt. Gov., endeavors to intro- 203; prohibit retailing rum to the duce a new mode of appeal, 813; Sir soldiers, 217, 229; order R. LivingWmi. Johnson's letters to, 923, 937, ston to appear, 218; the Patroon's 954, 956, 957, 962, 965; missingletters Mill to be fortified, ib; R. Livof, 1008. ingston's lands to be attached, 219; CVllectors of taxes, order for the elec- order various effects to be provided tion of, 320. for the expedition against Canada, Colonies, union of all the, proposed, 221, 222; resolve to defend Schenec564; committee appointed to draft a tede, Connestigione and the Half plan for a union of the, ib; a plan for Moon, 223, 224; letters of Leisler to the union of the several, 612. the, 237, 270; from New England Commissions, to Jacob Leisler, as and Maryland at New York, 238; captain of the fort at New-York, 11; agree to prosecute war against the as commander-in-chief, 23; validity French, 239; at Albany make a of Gov. Andros' vindicated, 36; of treaty with the 5 Nations, 314; to Jochem Staas as Captain of the fort the Prov. Congress in 1754; proat Albany, 51; of N. Rust to destroy ceedings of the, 545; names of the, Fort Cadaraqui, 53; issued by Govs. to the Pro. Congress, 553; on InAndros and Dongan reyoked by dian affairs, proceedings of the, Leisler, 53, 58; to search for suspec- 559, 560. ted persons, 55; to hold courts of Committee of Safety at New York, oyer and terminer, 61, 62; to Messrs. names of the members of Leisler's, Vermelye, Blagge, & Milborn as de- 11, 24; appoint Leisler commander legates to Conn., 74; from the con- in chief, 23; order the munipical vention at Albany to K. Van Rens- officers of that city to be elected, selaer and Gerrit Teunise as dele- 35; letter of the, to the convention gates to Conn., 102; to Reynier Ea- at Albany, 115. rents as delegate to New-York, 174; Congress, at Albany in 1754, Journal to R. Livingston as delegate to New of the Prov., 545, 553; journal of a,'England, 177; from Leisler to Ja'b de with the Indians at Niagara, 868. Bruyn and others to be commission- Conbocton, the course of the river, ers for Albany, 179; to Jacob Mil- 1159, 1177. borne as Major of the forces raised INDEX. 1193 Connecticut, delegates from, to Leis- and Mary to be taken, 99; appoints ler, 16; government of, recals the Lieut. Sharp, commander of the fort men sent to Leisler, 34; Leisler which is not to be delivered to any sends delegates to, 74; proposals of one else, 101; gives a bond to R. Leisler to, 75; answer of,to Leisler's Livingston for his disbursements, proposition, 76; Leisler denounces 103; receives information that a the governor and magistrates of, as body of men is coming from New abettors of the Albany rebels, 77, 8; York, 106; resolves to inform the reply of, in self vindication, 79; Burghers thereof, 108; calls the sends eighty men to Albany, 98; Burghers together and commiuniagreement between the convention cates with them, 109; answer of the at Albany and, concerning the troops citizens to the, 110; news received to be sent from, 119; is accused of by, of the approach of three sloops aiding the partizans of Gov. An- with the King's Jack aboard, 113; dros at Albany, 184; Easthampton interview of Jacob Milborne with desires to be reannexed to, 187; re- the, 114; agreement made with calls its troops from Albany, 189; Connecticut by the, regarding a sends another detachment to Alba- military reinforcement, 119; further ny, 252; objects to Jacob Milborne, discourse between Jacob Milborne and proposes Mr. Winthrop, as and the, 121; declines to meet the commander in chief of the expedi- people at the City Hall, 122; threattion against Canada, 253; fragment ened by the citizens, 123; articles of a letter from Leisler to, 261; is submitted by the, to Jacob Ailaccused by Leisler of juggling and borne, 125; answer of the, to the double dealing, 302; and with hav- proposals of Jacob Milborne, 127; ing spit in the face of New York, letter of the, to the same, 128; fur303; severe animadversions on, ib.; ther interview of the, with Jacob cries like fiends fearing to be tor- Milborne, 129; appoints a day of mented before their time, 307; com- fasting and prayer, 133; invitation pared to those hypocrites, spoken from the Onondaga and Oneida Inof by St. James, who give advice dians to the, 139; answer of the, when called on to give charity, ib; thereto, 140; sends messengers to warned not to trust to fig leaves as Onondaga, with their propositions, a covering for her evils, 318; letter 143; receives a letter from Leisler, of, to Secretary Clarkson, 332; and 144; orders of the, thereon, 145; to Leisler, 333; is called on for men calls on Capt. Staas to produce the to put down Leisler, 338; letter authority which Leisler has receivfrom Gov. Sloughter to the Gov. of, ed from King William, and Staas' 383; the Mohegan Indians under, reply, 146; refuses to obey Leisler, demand payment for their land, ib. 147; vote of the, whether they Gonowongo river, course of the, 1178. should acknowledge Leisler as Lt. Counties in the Genesee country, in Governor, 148; despatches a force 1804, 1182; in the Military tract, in pursuit of the French who burnt 1187. Schenectady, 156; measures adopted CONVENTION at Albany, proceedings by the, after the Schenectady masof the, 80; names of the members of sacre, 157, et seq; sends letters to the the, ib; et seq. the members of the, governors of New England and Virfurnish each a gun to be hung up in ginia, 159; orders several houses to the church, 81; issues warrants be pulled down, ib; measures adoptagainst certain frenchmen, 82; for- ed by the, regarding the River Inbids all persons able to bear arms dians, 162; fails in obtaining aid from quitting the county, 84; sends Esopus, why, 163; receives the conmessengers to the adjoining set- dolence of the Mohawk Indians, tlements with certain intelligence, 164; resolves to send agents to New 85; answers of the, to the On- York and New England requesting ondaga Ambassador, 86; resolves their co-operation against the to assist the Mohawks in re- French, 171; appoints a board to building their castle, 87; orders the manage the affairs of the county, city fortifications to be repaired, 172; Leisler's proclamation against and that an express be sent to Capt. the, 179; and representation to Leisler for aid, 88- orders the erec- Maryland against the, 183; is suetion of divers forts in the vicinity ceeded by Leisler's commissioners, of Albany, 89, 90; prohibits the sale 191. (See Commissioners); the Moof intoxicating liquors to the In- hawks discover the delusions put dians, 92; Leisler declining to send on them by the, 228. men, resolves to apply to New Eng- Coode, Col., of Maryland, letters to (and for reinforcements, 93, 96; Leisler from, 42, 225, 248, 266..a'd to call up the River Indians, Cooper, Rev. Dr., president of NewYork College, visits England, 988, 1194 I'DEX. Copper Mines of Lake Superior, Sir Cow, price of a, in Western New-York Wm. Johnson on the, 920. in 1199, 1151. Correspondence of Sir Win. Johnson, Croghan, Mr., remarks of, on the obso 619. of the propr. of Pennsylvania, 756; CosBY, Gov., some particulars of the attacked and taken prisoner by the fallily of, 794; minute of the last Indians, 820; testimony of Sir Win. will of Mrs., 795; one of the sons Johnson in favor of, 838; intimates of, a lunatic, 806, 815, 818, 830; Mrs. his intention of quitting the public cannot sell her son's lands without service, 840; consents to continue an order from the chancellor, 818; in office, 845; cause of his dissatismanor sold, 802; account with the faction, 816; is recommended to be purchasers of, 927. sent to Fort Pitt, 862; proceeds to Council, names of the members of Detroit, 865. Leisler's, 45; minutes of, 48; three Crooked lake, 1180. nmembers of Leisler's, sent to ar- Crown Point, a party of outscouts range matters at Albany, 183; of ordered to, 197; the French build a war, iinute of a, 1833 names of the fort at, 607; the lion. Wmi. Johnson members of Gov. Sloughter's, 358. appointed major-general of the exCountry between Whitestown and the pedition against, 651. Genesee river in 1791, description of Culver's village. 1115. the, 1131. Cuyler, Hendrik, 116, 117; John, clerk Court martial ordered to sit in Flat- to Leisler's commissioners, 191. bush, 310; in New-York, 319. D. Dansville, 1164. to discharge a mortgage on it, 802; Dartmouth, Lord, interferes in behalf complains that the land does not of a Canajoharry Indian exhibited in contain as many acres as was paid England, 1006. for, 811, 926; Sir Wn. Johnson reDauley, Rev. M1r., threatened by Leis- quests him to give up his bonds, ler, 432. 812; declines to comply with Sir D'Eau, Chev., allusion to, 252; seized Wm's request, 813; further corresby the Indians and sent to Leisler, pondence between Sir Wm. Johnson 246, 267, 268; interview between and, 815, 818, 825, 828; complains Leisler and, 269; endeavors to pre- that his letters come to him open, vent the cruelties of the Indians to- 827; advises Mrs. Cosby to take lewards women andt children, 271. gal opinion as to her power of dis.. Declaration of Leisler and his party posing of her son's property, 830; in favor of King William and Queen communicates to Sir Wm. Johnson Mary, 4; of the Trainbands of New an extract of Lady Warren's letter, York, 10; against Major Ingoldesby 934; Sir Wmns reply to, 935; furand council, 340; Ingoldesby's an- ther communication from Sir Wm. swer to Leisler's, 346. Johnson to, regarding Sir P. WarDeerfield in great danger, 260. ren, 979. Delancy, I.on. James, holds a congress -, Stephen, joint commissioner at Albany, 553; orders the commis- of the court of admiralty, 291, 295. sioners on Indian affairs to meet, Delan:y, Peter, elected mayor of New 559; orders a reinforcement for Os- York, 35; appointed collector of the wego, 643; attends a council at revenue, 48; judge, 61, 291, 295. Alexandria, 6-18; commissions Col. Delaware Indians, Sir Wm. Johnson Johnson to be major-general, 653; takes the petticoat off the, 730. Gen. Johnson applies to him for Dellius, Rev. Dom., intervenes bemunitions of war, 654; and to pro- tween the Indians and Milborne, hibit the sale of rum among the In- 131; forced by Leisler to fly to New dians, 656; further letters to, 657, England, 431. 659, 660, 662, 665, 678, 682, 763; or- De Milt, Peter, petition of, to Gov. ders the treasurer to pay certain Sloughter, 368. moneys to Gen. Johnson, 670; urges Depositions against Robert LlvingGov. Phipps to forward reinforce- ston, 206, et seq. ments to the army at Lake George, Description of the country between 675; receives information of an at- Albany and Niagara in 1792, 1105; tack by the Indians on a settlement Williamson's, of the settlement of in Ulster county, 764. the Genesee country, 1127; of a jour-, on. Oliver, directed to ney from Albany to the Genesee make purchases for the army on country in 1792, 1131; Munro's, of Lake George, 697, 8; in treaty for the Genesee country, 1169. Cosby manor, 794, 795, 800; pur- Dieskau, Baron de, taken prisoner, chases it, 802; requests Mrs. Cosby 693; badly wounded, 694. INDEX. 1195 Distances in 1799 between the several soners, 71; several persons leave N, taverns on the road from Albany to York at the same time as, 185. Canandaigua, 1167; to the Genesee Dutch, an Indian account of the first country, 1172. vist to the Hudson river of the, 568; Domestic Cattle in western New-York, towns, on Long Island, rate bills of in 1804, 1175. the five, 493. DONGAN, Col., lying in N. York bay, Duycking, Gerrit, member of the court 3; arms seized in his mill on Staten of Admiralty, 291, 295; appointed Island, 6; arbitrary power of, de- Capt. 348; further reference to, 411. nounced, 10; his servant arrested; Dycckman, Jacob, offers to furnish fruit 21; said to have established a Jesuit trees and a new breed of sheep to College, 23; in Rhode Island, 32; re- Sir IVin. Johnson, 816. turns thence to New-York, ib; in- Dying speeches of Leisler and Milvited Maryland and Virginia to unite hIorne, 376. against the French, 42; ordered to Dysentery supposed to proceed from be arrested, 70, 74; all who hold bad pork, 254^ comr'ns from him also to be nade priE. Easthampton, the town of, desires to I Emmett - ordered to be arrested, be re-annexed to Connecticut, 187; 74. rate lists of, 441, 539. Erie, Lake, description and trade of, Election of the Mayor and common 1179. council of New-York, by the free- Exports of western New-York in 1799, nien, 35; of the mayor and aldermen 1149. of Albany ordered, 52; of representatives, order for the, 73. F. False weights, the traders in the In- Flying stores in western New-York, dian country make use of, 834. 1119. Fasting and prayer, a day of public, Fort James seized by Leisler, 3, 5; ordered in Albany, 133. condition of, 16, 24; turrets oft fired, Fines and: forfeitures imposed on some 17. of Leisler's party, 304. Fort Schuyler, 1105. First visit of the Dutch to the Hudson Fortifications, antient, in western N. river, an Indian account of the, 598. York, 1177. Fishes, the, in the Genesee country, Forts building in the country of the 1112. Six Nations, 726. Fitch, John, the original steamboat Fowl, wild, the several sorts of, isn supported by, 1039; certificates in western New-York, 1112. favor of the claim of, to the inv-en- Franklin, Benj., petition of, to the tion of the steamboat, 1059; dimen- king, 770; report of the Board of sions of the machinery of the steam- Trade on the petition of, 772; and boat of, 1024; length of the steam- others, propose to erect a new proboat of, 1079; letter to the speaker vince in western Virginia, 998; apof the Assembly of New-York from, proved by the crown, 1001.; member 1084: petitions of, to the several as- ofi the Rumiseian Soc. of Philadelsemblies, 1082, 1087, 1093. phia, 1038. Flatbush, a court martial ordered to Friends' settlement on Seneca Lake, sit at, 310; rate lists of the town of, 1107, 1115, 1132. 470, 504. French, privateers fitted out in NewFlatlands, rate lists of the town of, York against the, 250, 275; a ship 488, 495. belonging to the, captured at the FLETCHEB., Gov., petition of Thomas mouth of the Canada river, 272; enuStatham to, 412; of the members ot meration of the encroachments in Leisler's council to, 413; of Peter America by the, 607; intrigues of Delanoy to, 417. the, in the western country, 833. Flushing, rate lists of the town of, Fruit trees in western New-Yorlk 459, 516. 1112 1174. 196 INDEX. G. Gage, General, news from the western Genesee River, 1107; number of stores country sent to, 831, 833; his views on the, in 1792, 11?2; the port on of the course of Indian trade and the the, 1143; the course of the, 1177. irreg. proc. of Indian traders, 836; Geneseis (or Genesee) Indians, 877, method recommended by, to prevent 879; castle of the, 880. the trade between N. Orleans and Geneva, facts relating to the early the western country, 840; recom- history of the town of, 1106, 1115, mends Major Gorham as Indian agent 1131, 1136; a sloop built and a in Acadie, under Sir Wm. Johnson, newspaper established at, 1137; a 841; and removes the com'y at Mic- weekly market at, 1141; the first hilimakinac, 865; offers the Gover- stage runs to, 1142; a brewery esnors of Virginia and Pennsylvania tablished at, ib; manner in which his co-operation against the frontier water is conveyed to the houses at, people, 888; gives intelligence of In- 1143; a sulphur spring near, 1176; dian excesses in the west, 890. plaster of paris found in the vicinity Gansevoort, Harme, and other citizens of, ib.; description of, in 1804, 1183. of Albany, make arrangements for German fiatts, additional troops orthe quartering of Milborne's sol- dered to the, 732; treaty with the diers, 132. Indians at the, 981. Gates, General Hor., certificate of, re- Ginseng, French traders purchase, in garding Rumsey's steamboat, 1021. Western New York, 630; Gen. John-.aizette, the Bath, established, 1136; son speculates in, 657. the Ontario, circulation of, in 1799, Goderis, Frs., commissioned by Leis1152. ler, 251; orders to, in operating Genesee country in 1791, an account of against the French, ib. the, 1111; first Quaker settlement in Goffe, Christopher, appointed to comthe, 1107, 1115, 1132; population of mand a ship against the French, the, at various periods, 1113, 1121, 275; petition of, 277. 1139, 1182; Col. Williamson's letters Gold, Maj. Nathan, 4, 14; delegate on the, 1127; boundaries of the, 1129; from Connecticut to Leisler, 18. date of the first settlement of the, Goods supplied by New York to the 1130; a road opened from Pennsyl- Schenectady refugees, 199. vania to the, 1133; scarcity of pro- Gordon, Lord Adam, introduced to Sir vision in the, 1134; the, compared to Wim. Johnson, 818. Yorkshire in England, 1154; routes Gorham and Phelps, (See Phelps). to the, 1155, 1165; a Scotch settle- Gouverneur, Abm., clerk of the comment in the, 1156; water communi- mon council, New York, 35; Depy. cations from the, 1159; road to Nia- Sec., 257, 277, 310; arrested, 354; gara from, 1165; Robert Munro's de- petitions Gov. Fletcher, 413; attainscription of the, 1169; latitude and der of, reversed, 438. longitude of the, 1171; meaning of Gravesend, rate list of the town of, the word, 1172; physical appearance 462, 508. of the, ib; lumber in the, 1173; fruit Greenbush, a false alarm at, 85. of the, 1174. Greig, Hon. James, letter of the, to --- - Falls, 1143, 1164. Dr. T. Romeyn Beck, 1168. flatts, estimated contents of Gunpowder plot, rejoicings at Newthe, 1160. York, on the anniversary of the, 41. H. Half Moon. the fort at the, to be re- Hendrick, the Canajoharry Chief, moved, 89. speeches before the Prov. Congress Hardenberg, Gerrit, appointed to the in 1754, 575, 578, 589; killed at the command of the Royal Albany, 251. battle of Lake George, 693. HARDY, Sir Charles, Gov. of New- Hicks, Capt., ordered to be arrested, York, 697; visits Albany, 700; orders 70. additional troops to the German Historical Society of New York, Flatts, 732; communicates particu- Mss. of, how to be distinguished, 10. lars of a riot at Livingston Manor Honeoye first settled, 1134; lake, 1180. to Sir Wm. Johnson, 744. Hopetown, Yates co., 1137. Hay, price of, in Western New-York, Hour glasses, use of, in Albany, 198. in 1799, 1148. Huntington, rate lists of the town of, Hemlock lake, 1180. 443, 530. Hempstead, the town of, men called Hurley, power of attorney from the from, to put down Leisler, 338; rate inhabitants of, to their representalists of the, 463, 523. tives, 46. INDEX. 1 197 I. Immigration, early, into Western Maryland west of the Alleganies. New York, 1144. permitted to be run by the, 853; Inchiquin, Earl of, Gov. Sloughter's journal of the proceedings at NiagLetters to, giving an account of the ara, with the, 868; the patent of affairs of New-York, 372, 382. Iayaderosseras and of the lower Indian corn, price of, in Wesiern New Mohawk flatts complained of by the, York, in 1791, 1119; in 1798, 1148. 881; the effect of the conquest of Indians, the New-York, defeat those Canada on the relations with the, of Canada, 32; Pemaquid taken by 898; the number of, at the treaty of the, 85; answer of the Albany mag- Fort Stanwix, 915; policy pursued istrates to the Onondaga, 86; three by the, when disposed to quarrel, people killed at Saratoga by the, 950; to be encouraged to cut each 89; an order prohibiting the sale of others throats rather than those of rum to the, 91; Milborn's men the English traders, 969; alliances threatened to be fired on by the Mo- considered offensive and defensive hawk, 130; intelligence received at by the, 973; tht northern, are disAlbany from the, 137; proposals re- suaded from their hostile measures ceived from the Onondage and against the Cherokee, ib; ratificaOneyda, 139; answer sent to the, tion of the treaty of Fort Stanwix 140; propositions sent to the meet- with the, 974; principal grievances ing at Onnondaga of the, 143; sent in 1776, of the, 775; complain of to Lake Champlain in pursuit of the the great quantity of rum and the French, 158; address of condolence, small number of clergymen sent on the burning of Schenectady, de- among the, 976; a congress at the livered by the, 164; the answer of Great Plains of Sciota, about to be the Albany magistrates to the Mo- held by the, 978; the result of the hawk, 167; minute of the appear- Sciota Congress, 980, 990; Union to ance before Lt. Gov. Leisler and be deprecated between the Northern council of certain, 236; Casco and Southern, 981; the western bay attacked by the, 259; proceed- tribes of, sell their Pawnie prisonings of the commissioners for the ers, 984; view taken of scalping, by affairs of the, 559; the, demand that the, 995; additional complaints of Col. Johnson be agent for the, 582; the Six Nations of, 1002; death bed insolence towards the Oswego tra- of Sir Win. Johnson attended by the ders by the, 561; the treaties with Canejohary, 1004; effects of civilizathe Six Nations usually attended by tion on the, 1109; Rev. Mr. Kirkthe River, 572; speeches to the, land, missionary among the, 1110. 566, 575, 577, 583, 594, 604, 631, 633; inglis, Rev. Chs., presents a memorial from the, 572, 575, 578, 598, 630, 632, on the subject of Christianizing the 637; the, protest against the sale of Indians, 987. rum at their castles, 591; the account Ingoldesby, Major, Leisler's protest of the first visit of the Dutch to this against, 320; answer of, to Leisler's country given by the,'598; Col. protest, 322, reply of Leisler to, 323; Johnson sent to Onondaga to take proclamation of to the people of the hatchet out of the hands of the, New-York, ib; Leisler's order for 629; the discontinuance of the coun- the reception of the troops of, 324; cil fire at Onondaga the sign of the Leisler's refusal to surrender the fort disappearance as a people of the, to, ib; Leisler's proc. against per634; the number of, at the meeting sons acting under the authority of, at Johnson Hall, 665; every green 326; allowed to quarter his troops in thing there eaten up by the, 66; the City Hall, New-York, 327; reanumber of, at the battle of Lake sons of the Lt. Gov. and council of George, 684; names of the settle- New-York to resist, 328; Secretary ments on the Susquehannah river be- Clarkson to, authorising him to raise longing to the, 715; the proprietor the militia, 337; commission to, as of Pennsylvania chosen as umpire commander of the troops at Newbetween Virginia and the, 738; York, (fiagment), 339; declaration neutrality declared by the three Up- of Leisler, &c., against, 340; ansper Nations of, 746; presents only wer by the council of, 346; sent by to be given to the fighting, 747; Gov. Sloughter to demand the fort proofs of the dissatisfaction enter- from Leisler, 359; letter of, and tained against Pennsylvania by the, council to the Board of Trade, com-'750, 761; the land south of the mouth municating Gov. Sloughters death, of the'Ohio not belonging to the 386; widow Leisler's petition to, Northern Confederacy of, 849; the 394; denounced as a murderer, 411. divisional lines of Pennsylvania and Instruction of the Albany Conveztion 1198 INDEX. to their agent to New-York, 172; to Ireland, news received at New-York their delegate to New England, 174; of the total reduction of, by King to the lion. W. Johnson to take the William, 316. hatchet from the hands of the Six Irish refugees, proceedings at MaryNations, 629. land regarding some, 226, 243. Inventory of Father Valiant's property Irondequat, a fort to be built at, 616. seized at Albany, 208; of the ship Iron ore in Western New-York, 1118, Resolution, 311. 1164. Jamaica, rate lists of the town of, 463, demand the reappointment as Indian 519. agent of, 582; letters to the Board James II., peculiar mode of drinking of Trade from, 644 674, 684, 698, 708, the health of, after the Revolution, 712; is reappointed Indian agent by 47. Gen. Braddock, 644, 648, 674; has Jenango Indians request the release of enemies, 645; gives up his Indian some prisoners, 744. trade, 646; demands ~1000 sterling Jesuit, a, at Oneyda, 139. per annum, and an allowance for Jesuit college, a, said to have been secretary, 647; recommended to be erected by Gov. Dongan, 23, 262. commander of the expedition aJohnson, Gov., letter of, regarding gainst Crown Point, 650; is conJames Rumsey's claim to the inven- missioned as major-general of the tion of the steam boat, 102:0; intro- provincial forces, 651, 653; calls on ducing John Fitch to Gov. Small- the government to prohibit the sale wood, 1044. of rum among the Indians, 656; -—, Guy, deputy agent of Indian speculates in ginseng, 657; certain affairs, 848; appointed superintend- forts in the Mohawk valley located ent on the death of Sir William, by, ib.; erection of those forts con1006. tracted for by, 660; writes Gov. --—, Sir John, 1007; a relative of, Shirley about his pay and allowance, Indian interpreter at Niagara, 1109. 663; endeavors to induce the Indians, SIR WILLIAM, manuscripts to take up the hatchet, 665; allowof, 543; the Mohawks accused of ance from Massachusetts to, 667; being the counsellors of, 576; a sa- Lt. Gov. Delancey orders the treachem of the Six Nations, 591; pro- surer of New-York to pay certain posals regarding the Six Nations moneys to, 670; a certain policy toand the defeating the French, sub- wards the Indians suggested by, 673; mitted to the cong2ess at Albany calls for reinforcements, 678; sumby, 616; is examined before the pro- mons a council of war, 680; another vincial council, 618; recommends council of war called by, 682; that a person be sent to Oswego with marches to Lake St. Sacrement, 682; presents for the Indians, and that complains of Gov. Shirley to the forts be erected in the Seneca and Board of Trade, 684; Lake St. SacreOneida country, ib.; reports his re- ment called Lake George by, 689; turn from Onondaga, 619; a French rumor of a battle between the attack on the Mohawk valley ex- French and the troops under, ib.; pected by, ib.; letters to Gov. Clin- official account of the battle of Lake ton from, 619, 621, 624, 630; a smith George by, 691; is wounded, 693; sent to the Senecas by, 621; all re- acquaints the Board of Trade with cords and papers relating to Indian the results of the battle, 698; apaffairs ordered to be delivered to, pointed by the Crown sole superin622; complains of Gov. Dinwiddie, tendent of Indian affairs, 701; thanks 624; is instructed to hold a general the representatives of Queens for meeting of the Six Nations at Onon- a supply of provisions sent to the daga, 629; report of his conferences army from that county, 702; is crewith the Aohawks, 630; Indian ated a baronet, 703; was originally name of, ib.; arrival of, at Ononda- appointed in 1746 to manage Indian ga, 632; report of his proceedings affairs, 709; is authorized to draw there, 633; various Indian ceremo- on the commander-in-chief for nials alluded to in his speech by, whatever money he may require as 634, et seq.; warrants issued from Indian agent, 71(; copy of proceed1746 to 1753 to, 641; letters to Lieut. ings with the Indians communicated Gov. Delaney from, 642, 654, 656, to the Board of Trade by, 712; re657, 659, 660, 662, 6C5, 678, 682; at- commends that the Indians be protends the congress at Albany, 553, vided with ministers of the gospel, et seq.; the management of Indian 713; the loss of Oswego anticipated affairs resigned by, 581; the Indians by, 715; plan of, for attacking the INDEX. 1199 Indians on the River Susquehannah, Spaniards in the west, 860; visits ib.; complains of Gen. Shirley's the New England frontiers for the interference, 718; reason given for benefit of his health, 862; complains the defection of the Indians by, 719; of the expenses incurred at MichiGov. Morris' declaration of war limakinac, 863; and repeats his unagainst the Delawares, condemned easiness about the Indians, 864, 867; by, 721; proceedings of, at Ononda- visits Oneida lake, 881; proposes a. ga, 727; obtains the consent of the boundary between the whites and Six Nations to cut a road to Oswego, Indians, 882; minutes of the meet729; takes the petticoat off the Dela- ing with the Indians at Tuccarora ware nation, 730; ordered to send creek, 883; his opinion of Major additional troops to the German Rogers' schemes, ib.; makes further Flats, 732; ascribes the Indian hos- suggestions regarding the Indian tilities against Pennsylvania to land trade, 886; a duty on spirituous purchasing, 736; answer of the pro- liquors sent to the Indian country prietors of Pennsylvania to the re- recommended by, 887; his opinion presentation of, 738; remarks on as to the cause of the discontents of the observations of the proprietors the Indians, 893; endeavors to bring of Pennsylvania by, 748; speech of about an accommodation regarding a Cherokee to, 765; the reduction of Kayaderosseras, 894; writes in favor Niagara recommended to the Board of the commis'y at Michilimackinac, of Trade by, 782; various improve- 896; congratulates the Earl of Hillsments in the Indian department sug- borough-on his return to the minisgested by, 784; ordered to enquire try, 897; gives that nobleman his into the complaints of the Delawares views of the changes produced on against the proprietors of Pennsyl- the state of Indian relations in convania, 789; declines a share in the sequence of the conquest of Canapurchase of Cosby manor, 796; da, 899; settles the difficulties about writes to Mrs. Cosby relative to the Kayaderosseras, 905; is about arsale of that estate, 797; fixes a price ranging a boundary line between on part of Cosby manor, 801; ac- the Indians and the whites, 906; quaints Mrs. Cosby he has sold her transmits an estimate of the number lands on the Mohawk river, and re- of officers necessary for his departmits the proceeds, 803; employs In- ment, 907; his estimate of the exdians against Indians: his motives pense of settling the boundary line, for so doing, 805; orders books from 909; informs Lord Hillsborough of James Rivington, 808; interview the progress of the negotiations rebetween some Mohawks and, 809; lative to the boundary line, 912; claims a balance to be due him by Lord Hillsborough communicates Sir Peter Warren, 815; communi- the news of the birth of a princess cates news from the western coun- to, 917; concludes the treaty with try, 820; sends his son to England, the Indians regarding the boundary, 822; his opinion of the stamp act 917; transmits particulars thereof to riots, 823; is offered his bonds in the British government, ib.; sends favor of Sir P. Warren, if he will information to England regarding release his claims against that es- the copper mines of Lake Superior, tate, 824; declines giving up his 920; his brother-in-law sues him for claim on Sir P. W's estate, 825, 828; the legacies left by Sir P. Warren, offers to give it for a certain tract of 935; thinks of having his estate land, 826; is authorized by certain erected into a manor, 937; views parties to purchase a large Indian of, as to the proposed recession of tract in the Mohawk country, 830; the lands south of the Kanhawa to sends intelligence from Niagara and the Indians, 940, 947; further views the western country to Gen. Gage, of, in support of the boundary line 831, 833; bears favorable testimony as concluded, 943; defends grants of of Mr. Croghan's public services, land made by the Indians to Mr. 838; further intelligence from the Croghan and certain traders, 945; Indian country communicated by, difficulty of acquiring a knowledge 843; draws up some regulations at of Indian affairs, 947; describes his the request of the ministry, for the tour in 1769, through the country of Indian trade, 845; an account of di- the Six Nations, 918; his observavers murders in the western coon- tions on the bill for dividing Albany try, transmitted by, 848; states that county, 955, 957; and on the militia, a general spirit of resentment pre- lb.; health of, reported to be failvails among the Indians, 851; is ing, 957; his further observations dissatisfied with Gov. Carleton, 856; on the organization of the militia, sends Gen. Gage further intelligence 958, 962, 965, 966; the royal ratificafrom Detroit, 858; communicates tion of the treaty of Fort Stanwix further intrigues of the French and annonnced to, 960; proposes to fur 1200 INDEX. nish new lists for magistrates, 966; tions, 985; pacifies the Mississages, considers it is preferable that the 995; speech of, in reply to the Six Indians should cut each other's Nations, 1003; death of, 1004, 1007; throats than those of the traders, last speech of, to the Indians, 1005; 968; assembles an Indian congress, missing MSS. of, 1008. 971; communicates the result to the Jones, William, letter from Jacob British government, 973; resolves Leisler to, on tie Revolution of to resist the attempt of the legatees 1689, 7. of Sir P. Warren, to obtain the Journal.of Capt. John Schuylerfs examount of the legacies from him, pedition into Canada. 280; of Indian 979; communicates to Lord Hills- transactions at Niagara, in 1767, 868. borough the result of the Indian Journey in the year 1792 from Albany congress at Sciota, 981, 990; holds to Niagara, description of a, 1106; another congress with the Six Na- to the Genesee country, 1131. K. Kayaderosseras, location of, 574; the King's birthday, rejoicings in NewMohavwks complain that the whites York on the, 41. have taken possession of, ib; the Kingston, Ulster county, letters from, Indians renew their complaints a- 23(), 231, 234. gainst the patent of, 810, 881; state- Kirkland, Rev. Mr., missionary to the ment of the differences regarding, Oneidas, 1110. 905. Kittery, the French and Indians atKierstede, Lucas, ordered arrested, 263. tack, 260. Kinderhook, the people of, invited to Klock, George, inveiglesa Cannajoharepair to Albany to receive liberties ry Indian to England for exhibition, and privileges, 119. 1006. King, Thomas, an Indian chief, death Kryder, Mr. invents a peculiar sort of of, 989; his proceedings at Scioto, boat called an Ark, 1150, 1161. 990. L. Lake George, why so called, 689; bat- the state of the fort, 5; orders al tie of, 691; map of the country a- papists to be disarmed, 6, 9; setl round, 696. about repair'g the fort, 6; states him s Lakes, the principal, in western New- self to be a German, 9; eifort of theYork, 1177. Jacobites against, ib; declaration of Lamberville, Rev. Father, 138, 139, the soldiers of, as to the causes 141. which led them to seize the fort, 10; La Motte, fort, 288. commissioned as captain of the fort, Lands, granting large tracts of, to pri- 11; letter from secretary Allyn to, vate persons prejudicial to the pub- stating that certain delegates are lie interests, 610; recommendations sent from Conn. to N. Y., 15; who of the Congress at Albany relative to approve his proceedings, 16, 17; the future purchases of Indian, 611; writes to Gov. Treat, giving an acdescription of the military, 1186. count of the improvements he ma1de La Prairie burnt by Capt. John Schuy- in the fort, 20; arrests Col. Dongan's ler, 287. servant for reporting that king Larkin, James, arrested by Leisler, 21. James was joined by the Protestants Lawrence, Major Thomas, ordered to of Ireland, 21; sends the Governor of impress a force for defence of South- Boston an account of the state of old, 274. things at Albany, 22; appointed Laws passed in Leisler's administra- commander-in-chief, 23; communition, 355. cates to the Governor of Boston InLawyers, the, why they fomented op- dian news, and the state of things in position to the Stamp Act, 823. New-York, 24, 31; asks Gov. Treat Lead-mine on the Mohawk river, 804; for a letter to the agent of Connection the Cosby estate, 818, 819. cut in Elngland, and sends an account Leake, Corn. General, letters of, to Sir of a massacre in Maryland by In diWin. Johnson, 768. ans, 25, 36; causes several houses in LEISLER, JACOB, papers relating to New-York to be searched, seizes pathe administration of, 1; particulars pers addressed to disaffected persons, of his seizing the fort at New-York, also provisions, 500 men being in 3, 14; declaration of, in favor of arms, 26; expresses great fear of the William and Mary, 4; reports of, on Catholics, 31; proclaims William and INDEX. 1201 Mary in New-York and Albany, 32; 1 throw them, 104; protest of the Alsends a party to capture a pirate, 33; bany convention received by, 107; Connecticut re-calls the men it sent commissions Capt. Jochim Staas to to aid, 34; confirms the election by command the fort at Albany, and the citizens of New-York of their again orders a free election for maMayor and Common Council, 35; is yor and aldermen in that city, 145; denouncedby Col. Bayard, 36; sends the convention at Albany protests a force to Albany to reduce the fort, against, 150; a proclamation against 40; seizes a ship belonging to some that body issued by, 179; appoints Irishmen, whom he orders to be ta- Jacob DeBruyn and others commisken to Barbadoes, 41; Maryland com- sioners to manage the affairs of Almunicates to the Secretary of State bany, 180; and Ulster, 181; writes to the great service done to his Majes- Maryland, giving an account of his ty's interest by, 44; issues a warrant proceedings,the burning of Schenecfor the arrest of M. Plowman, ib; tady, &c., 183; and demanding aid, assumes the title of Lt. Governor and 184; writes to Boston on the same commander-in-chief of the Province subject, ib; disarms and imprisons of New-York, 45; and selects a several persons who held commiscouncil, ib; on receipt of their Ma- sions under Sir E. Andros, 185; rejesties' letters, 47, 56, 182; minutes quests a catalogue of the books and of the council of, 48; orders king papers in Boston belonging to NewWilliam and Queen Mary to be again York, 185, 229; calls on Gov. Bradproclaimed, 50; continues the duties street to aid in arresting Livingston, imposed by Dongan, ib.; his procla- 186; sequestrates Mathew Plowman's mation to that effect torn down and property, 188; issues a warrant aproceeding in consequence, ib.; or- gainst Major Brokholst, 190; sends ders Capt. Jochem Staas to take pos- troops to Albany, ib.; sends his ensession of Fort Orange, 51; orders a sign with letters to his Majesty, 191; free election of Mayor and Alder- invites the other colonies to appoint men for Albany, 52; and of munici- commissioners to meet at Newpal officers in Schenectady, ib; com- York to adopt measures for the pubmissions a party to take Cataraqui, lie defence, 211, 225; letter from the 53; calls in all commissions issued speaker of the Maryland assembly by Gov. Dongan or Sir E. Andros, to, 212; from the Gov. of Maryland 54; announces a hellish conspiracy to, 225; gains possession of Albany to subvert the government, and is- fort without bloodshed; is visited sues a general search warrant, 55; by a delegation from the Mohawks, memorial vindicating the proceed- 227, 228; refers to a Jesuit's properings of, ib; menaced by several of ty seized in Albany, 228; the Five the opposite party, 57; who are im- Nations espouse the cause of, 229; prisoned and fined by, 58; proceed- secretary Allyn acquaints him that a nngs of, termed a Dutch plot, ib.; Al- force is despatched from Connecticut bany pays little regard to the com- in aid of Albany, 232; supplies formisions of, 59; warrants against warded to Albany by, 235; resolves Bayard, Van Cortland and other to carry on the war against the leading opponents, issued by, 60; French, 236; minute of the intercalls courts of oyer and terminer, 61; views between the Indians and, ib.; arrests Bayard, Nicolls, and the fer- proposal of, to the New-England ryman's wife, 62, 182; petitions of commissioners, 237; addresses a cirBayard to, 63; orders the seizure of cular to all the western governgunpowder belonging to Jno. Pell, ments, 242; orders all the pork in 68; complains of Capt. Bull, in; con- New-York to be seized for his Manunicates intelligence of the burn- jesty's use, 243, 255; sends particuing of Schenectady, 69, 71, 183, 244; lars of the burning of Schenectady to issues warrants against Col's Dongan, Barbados, 244; and of his designs Willet, et al., 70; and orders the against Quebec, 245; the Indians arrest of all reputed Papists, 71, 74; seize Chev. D'Eau, and send him to, sends deputies to Conn., 74; with 246, 267, 268; commission from, to certain proposals, 75; accuses the Capt. Mason, 250; and to others, Gov. and:lag. of Conn. with having 251; surrenders a fugitive from jusencouraged the rebellion at Albany, tice, 252; secretary Allyn acquaints, 78; and calls for the arrest of Sec'y of the sickness prevailing at Albany, Allyn, ib; answer of Conn. to the 254; enlists none but such as have "angry letter" of, 79; writes to Al- had the small pox, 255; forwards bany inviting delegates to be sent to advices from the Indian country to New-York, 92; declines to send the other colonies, 257; defends any of the militia there, 93; notified Milborne against secretary Allyn's by the convention at Albany that attacks, 258; the Governor of Boston they will resist his attempts to over- writes to, advising him of the Mass. VOL. n. 76 1202 INDEX. quota being countermanded, on ac- ration of, and party against Major count of the French attacking the Ingoldesby, 340; answer to the deeastern frontier, 259; violent assault claration of, 346; list of commisin the street on, 263, 268; issues a sions issued by, 347; laws passed proclamation for the arrest of sun- during the administration of, 355; a dry persons, 263; calls on the inhab- letter brought to Gov. Sloughter itants to sign the declaration in favor from, 358; called on to surrender the of king William, 264; agrees to the fort, 359; is brought prisoner before appointment of Winthrop as Major- the council, ib.; letter to SloughGeneral of the expedition against ter from, ib.; petition of, to Govo Canada, 265; orders all deserters to Sloughter, 360; a court ordered for be arrested, 266; sends Capt. Blagg the trial of, 362; committed to prias agent to England, 268; letters son, ib.; plea of, 364; resolutions previously sent by, taken by the passed by the House of RepresentaFrench, ib.; interview between tives against, 366; Gov. Sloughter's Chev. D'Eau and, 269; urges on the letters to Lord Inchiquin concerning, expedition against Canada, 270; 372, 382; is ordered to be executed, sends to Bermuda news of his oper- 374; petition of, for a reprieve, 375; ations against the French, 272; or- dying speech of, 376; demeanor of, ders the arrest of certain disaffected on the scaffold, 379, (see Slougher;) persons in Queen's county, 274; letter of Ingoldesby and council to sends a force to protect Southold, the Lords of Trade on the execution ib.; impresses vessels to operate of, 386; adverse representations on against the French, 277; commis- the administration of, 388, 391; pesions Major-General Winthrop as tition of the widow of, 394; the Incommander-in-chief of the expedi- dians threaten to avenge the blood tion against the French, 281; calls of, 397; sundry depositions in dean assembly, 282; issues new writs fence of the conduct and character for elections, 283; secretary Allyn of, ib. et seq.; petition of Jacob writes to, complaining of the want Leisler, Jun., to the king in vindicaof canoes at Wood Creek for General tion of, 422; copy of a pamphlet Winthrop's army, 284; arrests Gen- published in New-York against, 425; eral Winthrop and sends him down an act reversing the attainder of, 4350 to New-York, 288; prorogues the Leisler Jacob, Junr., petition to the assembly, 290; justifies his arrest of King by, 422. Winthrop, 300; whom he accuses of Le Roux, Bartholemew, deposition of, inefficiency, of being an adulterer, against Col. Bayard et al., 28; claim 301; of being a supporter of Sir E. of, 395. Andros, 302; passes a severe censure Letters from, Lt. Gov. Leisler to the on Connecticut, 303; appoints an In- Gov. of Boston, 3, 5, 22, 24, 31, 37, dian Board, ib.; postpones the hold- 39, 184, 186,225, 227; to Major Nathan ing a court of Oyer and Terminer in Gold, 4, 14; to Wm. Jones, 7; of the King's county, 307; issues a procla- committee of New-York to certain miation against certain seditious per- agents in London, 13; Sec. Allyn to sons in Queens, ib.; sends forces by Leisler, 15, 34, 76, 189, 232, 252, 253, land and water against the same, 309, 284, 288, 333; the Connecticut dele310; orders reinforcements from gates to Leisler, 16; from L. V. Ulster county to Albany, 313; ap- Schaick to Arnout Cornelis, 18; points agents to reside at Onondaga, Leisler to Gov. Treat, 20, 21, 25, 68, 314; Jacob Melyn writes recommen- 69, 235, 254, 257, 25S, 261, 265, 269, ding moderation to, 316; another 316; to Maryland, 31, 33, 36, 181, 229; sharp reproof administered to Con- to Capt. William Harris, 33; to John necticut by, 317; orders certain Fatham, 39; to the Gov. of Barbacounty officers to be elected through- does, 40, 46, 243; Col. Coode to out the province, 320; protests a- Leisler, 42, 225; Leisler to Albany, gainst Major Ingoldesby, ib.; calls 51, 145, 237, 270; to Capt. Staats, 52; out the militia, 322; Major In- Sheriff Pretty to Jacob Milborne, goldesby's answer to the protest of, 59; Leisler to Jacob Melyn, 62; from ib.; reply of, thereto, 323; orders Wm. to Jacob Milborne, 72; from for the reception of Ingoldesby's Lt. Gov. and council of New-York troops issued by, 324; refuses to to the Gov. of Connecticut, 77, 210; surrender fort William, ib.; issues from Gov. and council of Connectia proclamation against those who act cut to the Lt. Gov. and council of under Ingoldesby, 326; reasons of, New-York, 79; the committee of and his council for resisting In- safety of New-York to the mag. of goldesby, 328; Sec'y Allyn writes Albany, 115; Jacob Milborne to the to, recommending him to submit to same, 117; Adam Vrooman-to Jacob Ingoldesby, 334; King's county call- Milborne, ib.; H. Cuyler to Scheneced on to aid in resisting, 337; decla- tady, ib.; Jacob Milborne to the Al INDEX. 1203 bany convention, 123; Mayor Schuy- Sir W. Johnson, 762; from the Onaghler to J. Milborne, 128; Jacques guage Sachems to Sir Wm. JohnCornelissen to Mayor Schuyler, 137; son, 763; from Sir Wm. Johnson to Leisler to the authorities at Albany, Com'y Genl. Leake, 768, 804, 820; 145; the town of Easthampton to from Hon 01. De Lancey to Sir Wn. Leisler, 187; Leisler to Major Win- Johnson, 794, 795, 800, 802, 811, 813, throp, 190; commissioners of Albany 818, 823, 826, 830, 934; from Sir Wnm. to J. Milborne, 198; the co'!ncil of Johnson to Mrs. Cosby, 797,803, 814; New-York to the governors of the from Sir Wm. Johnson to 01. De other provinces, 211; the speaker of Lancey, 796,801, 812, 815, 825, 828, the Maryland Assembly to Leisler, 935, 960, 979; from Mrs. Cummins to ib. R. Swartwout to Milborne, 230; Sir Wm, Johnson, 798; from Sir N. Anthony to the commissioners at Wm. Johnson to Chs. Williams, 803: Albany, 231, 234; Gov. Treat to from 01. De Lancey to Mrs. Cosby, Leisler, 233, 276; Leislerto the New 804; from Mrs. Cosby to Sir Wm. England commissioners, 238; Leis- Johnson, 806, 819, 829; from Jas. ler to Fathem, 241; Leisler to the Rivington to Sir WVm. Johnson, 806; western governments, 242; Mess. from Sir Wm. Johnson to Jas. RivEdsal and Pembroke to Gov. Treat, ington. 808; from Col. Glen to Sir 243; Gov. of Maryland to Leisler, Wm. Johnson, 817; from Chs. Wil248; Leisler to Major Walley, 252; liams to Sir Wm. Johnson, 817, 821, Milborne to Leisler, 256; Gov. Brad- from Sir Wm. Johnson to Genl. Gage, street to Leisler, 259; Leisler to 831, 833, 838, 842, 843, 846, 848, 850, Dirck Wessells, 266; Leisler to Col. 853, 855, 857, 858, 860, 862, 863, 866, Cood, ib.; Leisler to the Gov. of 881, 883, 885, 893,. 895; from Genl. Bermuda, 271; commissioners of Al- Gage to Sir Wm. Johnson, 835, 836, bany to Milborne, &c., 273; Leisler 840, 841, 842, 865, 888, 890, 891, 892; to Connecticut, 300; Rev. M. Bon- from Capt. Maturin to Sir William repos to Leisler, 304; Jacob Melyn Johnson, 838; from Sir Wm. Johnto Leisler, 316; Secy. Clarkson to son to Capt. Maturin, 852; from Sir Gov. Treat, 327; magistrates of Wm. Johnson to the Earl of HillsWestchester county to Col. Graham, borough, 896, 904, 912, 917, 920, 928, 330; Secy. Clarkson to Col. Willet, 932, 943, 948, 964, 967, 970, 973, 980, 332; Secy. Allen to Secy. Clarkson, 985, 987, 989, 994; from Earl of Hillsib.; Major Beekman to Queens co., borough to Sir Wm. Johnson, 908, 334; Secy. Clarksonto Flatbush, 335; 916, 938, 960, 969, 996; from Gov. the same to Squire Platt, ib.; the Johnson to Jas. Rumsey, 1030; from same to Col. Townley, 336; the same the Rumseian Society of Philadelphia to Major Ingoldesby, ib; the same to to the Speaker of the New-York Capt. Jackson, 338; the same to Gov. Assembly, 1036; from Gov. Johnson Treat, ib.; from Leisler to Gov. to Gov. Smallwood of Maryland in Sloughter, 359; from Gov. Sloughter favor of Jno. Fitch, 1044, from Jno. to Lord Inchiquin, 372, 382; to Jo- Fitch to the Speaker of the Newseph Church, 373; to Col. Coddring- York Assembly, 1084. ton, 380; to Mr. Blathwayt, 381; List of volunteers for the frontier, 91; from Gov. Sloughter to the Gov. of of the citizens of Albany who subConnecticut, 383; from Major In- scribed to the public defence, 93; of goldsby and council, to the Lords of stores required by Leisler's commisTrade, 386; from a gentleman in sioners, 195; of the Schenectady New-York to another on the troubles refugees, 199; of soldiers for the in that province, 426; from the board Canada expedition, 212; of persons of trade to Sir D. Osborne, 555; who left Albany without leave, 218; from Col. Johnson to Gov. Clinton, of the commissions issued by Leis619, 621, 624, 630; from Lt. Lindsay ler, 347; of the killed and wounded to Col. Johnson, 623; from Capt. in the force employed against LeisStoddart to Col. Johnson, 625, from ler, 364. Mr. Woodbridge to Col. Johnson, Livingston Manor, riot about land in, 627; from Sir William Johnson to 744. Lt. Gov. Delancey, 642, 654, 656, Livingston, Robert, the convention at 657, 659, 660, 662, 678, 682, 763; to Albany give him a bond for his disthe board of trade, 644, 674, 684, 698, bursements, 103: sent a delegate to 708, 712, 717, 728, 733, 745, 781, 791; New England, 171, 174; arrest of, from Mr. Banyar, to Genl. Johnson, ordered by Leisler, 179; Capt. Blagge 660, 676; Sir Wm. Johnson to Mr. and Lt. Terneur sent in pursuit of, Banyar, 984; from the board of trade 186; condition on which Oov. Treat to Genl. Johnson, 700; from Secy. will issue a warrant against, 188; Pownall, to Sir Wm. Johnson, 710, call on, to give up the records of the 911; from Gov. Hardy to Sir Wm. city of Albany, 194; depositions Johnson, 744; from Wm. Corry to against, 206; outlawed, 218; pro 1204 INDEX. perty of, sequestrated, 219; house of, Long Island, rate lists of the several searched, 227; sundry effects belong- towns on, 439. ing to a French Jesuit found in the Lottery, a, granted for opening roads house of, 228; (See Valiant); goods in Western New-York, 1142. sent from Barbadoes to, seized, 238; Loudon, Earl, appointed commander accompanies Maj. Genl. Winthrop in chief of the forces in America, to Albany, 302; attends the execution 710; directs Genl. Johnson to collect of Milborne, 380; is accused by the a force at the German flatts, 733. latter as the cause of his death, ib. Lyons village founded, 1138. Log-house, cost of a, 1151. M. Manors erected in the Province of Albany to receive their rights and New-York long after the abolition privileges, 116; sends a similar inof the feudal tenure, 937. vitation to Kinderhook, 119; further Map of the country around Lake proceedings between him and the George, 696. convention at Albany, 120; addresses Maple sugar, manufacture of the, 1122; the people again, and insists that amount manufactured in Western there ought to be a new municipal New-Yorl, 1174. election, 121; accused of deluding Marius, Peter Jacob, ordered arrested, the people by promising them liber60. ties and privileges, 123; letter from, Marsh, William, Secy. for Indian af- to the convention, with terms, ib.; fairs, 810. articles proposed, in return, by the Maryland, several families massacred convention to, 125; answer of the in, by Canada Indians, 25; Leisler's convention to terms offered by, 127; letters to, 31, 33, 34, 36,181, 226, 229; marches his company into Albany, letters to Leisler from, 42, 211, 225,.128; and demands the fort, from 248; three priests obliged to fly from, which he is thrust out, 130; plants and two imprisoned in, 43; the prin- the King's Jack at the city gates, cipal catholics fly to Virginia from, ib.; protest of the mayor of Albany 181; an aid voted to New-Yorl by, against, 131; returns to New-York, 212; list of men who were sent from, 132; proceeds as one of Leisler's 215; agents appointed by, to reside commissioners to Albany, 191; comat New-York, 249. missioners at Albany require him to Mason, Wm., appointed commander forward certain necessaries for the of a ship against the French, 250. soldiers, 198; list of the soldiers deMass, Lt. Gov. Nicholson accused of parted for Albany under, 212; R. having several times attended, 27. Swartwout's letter to, on the state of Massachusetts Legislature votes an al- things at Kingston, 230; appointed lowance to Genl. Johnson, 667; and major of the expedition against the reinforcements to his army, 677. French, 240; intelligence received Mayors the, of New-York and Albany from Albany that the widow Schuyelected for the first time by the citi- ler beat, 247; Connecticut objects to, zens, 35. as commander of the expedition McGregorle, Major, account for the against Canada, 253; sends advices burial of, audited, 363. to Leisler from the Indian country, Mehitabel, Sir E. Andros, sails from 257; proposed to be sent by Leisler Boston in the, 72. to England, 268; letter from the Melyn, Jacob, Leisler's letter to, 62; commissioners at Albany to, 273; letter to Leisler from, 316. sent against certain rebels in Queens Memorandum how Jacob Leisler was county, 309; summoned by Gov. to plead, 364. Sloughter before the council, 358; Memorial, a, of occurrences at New- committed to the guards, ib.; petiYork since King Wm's. arrival in tions Gov. Sloughter, 360, 361; orEngland, 55; an answer to, 388. dered for execution, 374; petitions AMichilimakinac, the most material of Sloughter for a reprieve, 375; dying the English posts, 837; the commis- speech of, 380; parting observation sary of, imprisoned, 885; recom- to Robert Livingston on the scaffold, mended to be restored, 896. ib.; act reversing the attainder of, Milborne, Jacob, appointed secretary 435, (see Leisler.) of the province, and clerk of the Military lands in New-York, 1186; council, 48; sent delegate to Conn., divided into counties, 1187; popula74; arrives with an armed force at tion of the, in 1804, ib. Albany, 113; harangues the people Militia, Sir Wm. Johnson's suggesin the City Hall, 114; invites the tions regarding the, 955, 957, 958, people of Schenectady to repair to 962, 965, 966. INDIEX. 1205 Mill, the Patroon's, to be fortified, faction with certain proceedings re218. garding lands at Schoharie expressed Miller, Miss, letter of, to Capt. Wrax- by the, 847; church of England all, 764. ministers since the time of Queen Mohawks reported to have accepted Anne among the, 977; the country presents from the Onagonques, 18; of the, in 1792, 1105. statement of some ambassadors from Monongahela, the English expelled the, regarding the Onagonques, 19; by the French from the mouth of ask aid to erect their new castles, the, 586. 87; Milborne and his soldiers threat- MooRE, Sir Henry, leaves New-York, ened to be fired on by a party of, 822; death of, referred to, 962 131; news received from the, 137; Morris, Gov., declares war against the condolence of the, on the burning of Delawares and Susquehannahs, 721. Schenectady, 164, 169; answer of the ---, Robert, purchases land in WestAlbany authorities to the, 167; the, ern New-York and resells it in Engvisit Leisler, 227, 235; the small pox land, 1133. prevails among the, 254; accused of MSS. of Sir William Johnson, 543; being Sir Wm. Johnson's advisers, missing, 1008. 576; the head of all the other nations, Mud creek, course of the, 1178. 577; Gen. Johnson locates forts in --- lake, first settlements on, 1135, the valley of the, 657, 660; great 1138, 1180. consternation prevails among the, Munro, Robert, a pamphlet on the 609; conferences held by Sir Wm. Genesee country by, 1169. Johnson with the, 631, 809; dissatisN. Lames of persons ordered by Leisler New Utrecht, early rate lists of the to be arrested, (see Arrests); of the town of, 485. members of Leisler's council, 45; New-York, Leisler seizes the fort of, of the soldiers who took the oath of 3; the mayor and common council allegiance at Fort Albany, 101; of of, resolve to act under king James' the refugees from Schenectady, 199; commission, 8; MSS. of the Historiof those who held commissions un- cal Society of, how distinguished, der Leisler, 347; of Gov. Sloughter's 10; the mayor of, quits, 22; aldercouncil, 358; of the heads of families men and assistants elected in 1689:, on Long Island, 1675, 1683, 441; of 35; William and Mary proclaimed a the delegates to the provincial con- second time in, 47; report that some gress at Albany, 553. men of war are coming to take, 259; Nanfan, Lt. Gov., purchases the hunt- reinforcements voted to the Crown ing grounds of the Five Nations on Point army by the assembly of, 669; Lakes Erie and Ontario, 778. papers relating to Western, 1103. Nantaskett, prizes taken from the Niagara, a fort built by the French at, French at, 284. 623; a French army lands at, ib.; Narrative, a, of grievances, addressed surrender of, mentioned, 794; jourby Easthampton to the King, 187; nal of Indian transactions at, 868; against Leisler, in answer to their names of the officers at, 871, 877; deMajesties letter, 391. scription of the country between Navigation, tracts on early steam, 1011. Albany and, in 1792, 1105; between Navy island, a vessel burnt at, 831. the Genesee river and, 1108; EngNew England, arrangements entered lish garrison at, ib.; Falls of, 1166, into with New-York against the 1177, 1183. French, by commissioners from, 239. Nicholson, Lt. Gov., quits New-York, New Hampshire, part of, annexed to 3; accused of threatening to fire the New-York, 821. city, 10; depositions against, 11, et New Hartford, 1165. seq.; the health of king James drank New Rochelle, letter to Leisler from by the brother of, 47; memorial the pastor of, 304. against, 55; answer to the memorial Newspapers, the first in western New- against, 388. York, 1136, 1137, 1152. Nicolls, Wmin., warrant issued against, Newtown (L. I.) early rate lists of, 60; arrested, 62, 182. 464, 512; in the Genesee country, 116. 1206 INDEX. 0. Oats, price of, in 1799, in Western N. 727, 948; in 1792, 1106; lake, 1187, York, 1148. Ontario, the county of, description of Observations of the proprietors of the lands in, 1111; population of, Pennsylvania, on certain statements in 1791 and 1793, 1114; erected, 1129; regarding their land purchases, 738. rive's of, 1130; distance from divers Occurrences at New-York, a memorial points to, ib.; description of, in of the late, 55; answered, 388. 1792, 1131; divided, 1135; estimated Ogilvie, Rev. Mr., missionary to the population of, in 1790, 1151; militia Mohawks, 714. of, great mills in, in 1799, 1152; exOhio, date of the removal of the Dela- tent of Lake, 1178. wares and Shawanese to the, 585; the Order to Kings county to raise men French build a fort at the, 623; and for Albany, 71; for a draft of every design to drive the English from tenth man, 73; issued by Leisler's the, 624; a French army passes Os- commissioners, 191, 217; in council wego on its way to the, 625; orders to enquire into certain complaints of to the expedition against, 626. the Delaware Indians, 789. Oil, a curious natural, found in West- Original steamboat, the, 1039. tern New-York, and brought by In- Oswegatchie, the French draw half dians to Niagara, 879. the Onondaga tribe to, 608; a great Onagonque Indians, who, 18; proposi- many Indians gone to, 632; the extions of the, to the Mohawks, 19. cuse of the Indians for going to, 638. Oneida, a fort building at, 726; popu- Oswego, remonstrance of the traders lation of the Indian town of, in 1792, to, 561; rumor of an army coming to 1106. destroy, 621; a French army passes, Oneida stone,, Sir W. Johnson sets up 625; the English excuse for selling and clears the moss from the, 635; rum at, 640; Sir Wm. Johnson anthe Indians thank him for cleaning ticipates the loss of, 715; a road to the, 639. be cut to, 729; consequence of the Onondaga, answer of the Albany ma- loss of, 733. gistrates to the Indians of, 86; pro- Otisco lake, 1187. posals of the Albany Convention to Otter creek, scouts sent to, 203. the general Indian meeting at, 143: Owasco Lake, 1187. French emissaries sent to, 256; Leis- Ox cart, price of an, in western Newler appoints agents to reside at, 314; York, in 1799, 1151. Col. Johnson sent to, 629; proceed- Oyer and terminer, a court of, ordered, ings at, 632; popular belief regard- 61, 62; suspended for Kings county, ing the continuance of the council 307. fire at, 634; a fort building at, 726; Oysterbay, rate lists of, 528. proceedings of Sir Wm. Johnson at, P. Paepskanee, a fort to be erected at, Prop. of, to that charge, 738; remarks 90. of Sir. W. Johnson on the answer of Painted post, the village of, 1159. the Propr. of, 748; of Mr. Croghan Pamphlets, on the Leisler troubles, on the observations of the proprie424; on early steam navigation, 1011, tors of, 756; petition of Benj, Frank1039; on the Genesee country, 1169. lin, to the King, on behalf of, 770; Papers relating to Lt. Gov. Leisler's report of the board of trade on the administration, 1; to Long Island, petition of the agent of, 772; order 439; to western New-York, 1103. in council on the petition of the Papists, all reputed, ordered to be ar- agent of, 789; divisional line west of rested, 71. the Allegany mountains to be run Pawnee prisoners, the, usually sold by between Maryland and, 853; petition the western tribes, 984. of Henry Voight to the Assembly of, Pay of men employed against the 1082. French, in 1748, 620. Perret, Rev. Mr., threatened by LeisPell, John, gunpowder of, ordered to ler, 432. be seized, 68. Peters, Rev. Mr., thanks voted to, for Penn, Thos., report on certain propo- his sermon, 563. sals from, 704. Petitions of Christ. Goff to Leisler, Pennsylvania,ndian hostilitiesagainst, 277; of Nicholas Bayard to Leisler, ascribed by Sir W. Johnson to the 63, of Leisler and his council to Gov. land purchases of, 736; answer of the Sloughter, 360, 361; of Peter de INRDE. 1207 Milt to Gov. S., 368; of Gerrardus Pownall, Thos., submits to the ConBeekman to Gov. S., ib.; of Magda- gress at Albany certain consideraline Beekman to Gov. S., 369; of tions towards a general plan of meaGab. Mlinvielle to Gov. S., 371; of sures for the Eng. Prov, 616; eJos. Sacket to Gov. S., 373; of Leis- turns to England, 648: encloses an ler and Miibornc for a reprieve, 375; order to Sir W. Johnson to enquire of the wilow Leisler to Lt. Gov. into the complaints of the Delewares Ingoldesby, 394; of John Jeronison against Pennsylvania, 791. et al. to ingoldesby, 395; of Thos. Powtawatama village, where, 860. Statham of Westchester to Gov. Pretty, Richd, reports the disaffecton Fletcher, 412; the members of Leis- prevailing in Albany against Leisler ler's council to Gov. Fletcher, 413; 59. of P. de la Noy to Gov. Fletcher, Prideaux, Brig. Gen., accompanied in 417; of Jacob Maurits to the Earl his expedition against Niagara by of Bellomont, 419; of I. Provost to Sir Win. Johnson, 788. the same, 420; of Jacob Leisler's Prices of agricultural produce in son to the King, 422; of B. Franklin Western New-York in 1791, 1119; to the King, 770; of John Fitch, in 1798, 1148; fluctuation of, 1154; 1087, 1093; of Jas. Rumsey, 1088, of land in Western New-York, 1182; 1091, 1095. of produce in 1804, 1185. Phelps and Gorham, Messrs., purchase Privateers fitted out at New-York lands in Western New-York, 1111, against the French, 250, 251, 275. 1129, 1172; sell part thereof to Robt. Proclamation of William and Mary in Morris, 1133. Albany, 7; confirming the elections of Philadelphia, people of, declare it to the mayor and common council of be contrary to their principles to New-York, 35; continuing Gov. fight, 34. Dongan's duties, torn down, 50; Philips, Phil., appointed to the com- against tearing down or defacing mand of a vessel against the French, public placards, ib; annulling all 275. commissions issued by Andros or Phipps, Sir Wm., victory gained by, Dongan, 53; forbidding people to at Port Royal, 259. leave Albany without a pass, 84; Pitt, fort, attack on traders to, 953. convoking the Prov. Assembly, 282, Plan of a union of the several colonies 290; against rebels in Queens co., of Norti- America, 612. 307; calling out the militia, 322; of Pleasant Valley settled, 1134. Major Ingoldesby to the people of Plowman, Matthew, ordered arrested, New-York, 323. 44, 74; property of, to be sequestra- Produce of the Genesee Country, 1174. ted, 188. Proportions of men to be raised by the Pomponick, a fort ordered to be erect- provinces against the French, 240. ed at, 90. Protest of the Albany convention Pope, the, burnt in effigy in New-York, against Jacob Milborne, 131; of the 41. mayor and aldermen of Albany Population in the year 1770, of the against Leisler, &c., 150; manner of country between Rensselaer's and publishing the, 154. Livingston's manors, 965; in 1791, Protestants only have the right of sufbetween Cayuga and Seneca lakes, frage under Leisler, 35. 1113; of the county of Ontario in Provinces, Leisler's circular to the se1790, 1114; in 1793, ib; of the several veral American, 211; a new, propostowns in tne Genesee Country, 1115; ed to be erected in western Virginia, of the Genesee Country in 1791, 1121; 998; approved, I001. in 1804, 1182; of the counties of Provincial Congress at Albany, in Cayuga, Seneca, and Onondaga, in 1754, procedings of the, 545. 1804, 1187. Purchase by Messrs Phelps and GorPort Royal taken by the English, 260. ham in western New-York, extent Post, a weekly, to the Genesee Coun- of the, 1121. try established, 1141. Q. Quaker's settlement, early, in western the election of a representative for, New-York, 1107, 1115, 1132. 282; early rate lists of the several Queen's county, records of, ordered to towns in, (see Long Island.) be recovered, 59; Leisler's writ for 1208 INDEX, R. Ramsay, a trader on Lake Erie, ex- Rivers in western New-York, 1130, cesses committed by one, 994 1177. Rate lists of the several towns on Rivington, James, 806. Long Island from 1675 to 1683, 994. Rochester, (Ulster county,) attacked Reasons, Leisler's, for resisting In- by Indians, 764. goldesby, 328. Rogers, Major, designs of, on the wesRebels in Queen's county, proclama- tern country, 883. tion against, 307; Major Milborne Route from Albany to the Genesee sent against, 309. country, 1165; from Geneva to Ni. Refugees from Schenectady, names of agara, ib. the, 199. Rum keeps the Indians poor, 592; the Reply of John Fitch to James Rumsey, Indians complain of the sale among 1039. them of, 627, 976; excuse of the EnReport of the Board of Trade on the glish for selling, at Oswego, 640. Pennsylvaniapetition, 772; on Rum- Rumseian Society of Philadelphia, letsey, Fitch and Voight's inventions, ter of the, to the speaker of the N. 1084, 1092. York Assembly, 1036; members of Representatives, order for the election the, 1038. of, throughout the province of New- Rumsey, James. a short treatise on York, 73; new, ordered for Queen's the application of steam by, 1011; county, 282; and New-York, West- John Fitch's reply to, 1039; petition chester and Albany, 283. of, to the New-York Assembly, Resolutions of the New-York House of 1088; General Washington's opinion Representat;'es against Leisler and on the invention of, 1089. his party, 3uo. Rundigut Point, 1164. Revolution at New-York in 1689, de- Rye, price of, in western New-York, positions regarding the, 397. 1148. Riot in New-York against Leisler, 263, 268; against the Stamps, 823. S. Salem, the French burn some houses -- Marg., widow, advances funds near, 230. to pay the troops at Albany, 136; reSalt, price of, in Western New-York, ported to have chastised Jacob Milin 1791 and 1804. 1119, 1176. borne, 247. Salt springs at Onondaga, 1106, 1187, -- Peter, appointed commander of proportion of salt in a certain qual- the fort at Albany, 112; refuses to tity of water of the, 1162. surrender the fort to Milborne, 130; Saratoga, a fort ordered to be erected protest of, 131; letter from, on Inat, 89. dian affairs, 137; allowance to Col., Saw mills, number of, in Ontario Co. in the expedition against Crown in1799, 1152. Point, 663. Scalping the dead considered by Indi- Sciota, an Indian congress at, 978; reans a declaration of war, 995. suit of the, 980, 987, 990. Schenectady, names of persons recom- Selyns, Rev. Mr., abused by Leisler mended by Leisler for office in, 52; during divine service, 431. burning of, 69, 71, 156, 182, 184, 211, Seneca Indians, the, the western door 244; delegates from Albany sent to, of the Six Nations, 635; desire a fort 90; people of, invited by Milborne in their country, 714, 726. to attend at Albany to receive their lake, 1106, 1131,1137, 1179, 1187 privileges, 116; H. Cuyler's letter --- oil brought to Niagara, 879. to, 117; Lt. Taimage sent to, 132; a - river, how formed, 1163; course fort ordered to be built at, 224; of the, 1186. harsh proceedings towards a poor Shirley, Gov. WVm., secretary of the widow at, 798; in 1792, 1105. meeting at Alexandria, 651; Sir Wm. Schoharie, a fort building at, 726; In- Johnson writes to, 663; furnishes a dians dissatisfied with the proceed- supply of powder to the Crown Point ings regarding lands sold at, 847. expedition, 674; complaints against, Schuyler, Abram, Capt., ordered with 684. a party to Otter creek, 203. Shuckburgh, Richard, secretary of In__ Brandt, ordered to be arrested, dian affairs, 793. 263. Skaneatles lake, 1187. --- John, Captain, journal of his Six Nations, population ofthe, in 1792, expedition into Canada, 285. 1109, (see Indians.) 1NDEXo 1209 Sloop, the first, built on Seneca lake, companies Jacob Milborne and party 1137. to Albany, 113; elected captain by SLOUGHTER, Henry, Col., alluded to, the people, 122; the convention pro271; sworn in as governor of the pose to appoint him captain, which province of New-York, 358; orders he refuses, 124; remains in Albany Major Ingoldesby to demand the fort with his company, 132; differences from Leisler, ib.; commits Milborne between a delegation from the conand Delanoy, ib.; arrests Leisler and vention and, 134; visits Schenectady, his council, 359; Leisler's letter to, 135; calls on the convention to proib. petitions to. 360, 361, 368, 369, 371, claim William and Mary, and de373, 375; letters of, to Lord Inchi- mands if they acknowledge Leisler quin, 372, 382; to Joseph Church, as lieut. gov., 147; the convention 373; letter of, to Col. Coddrington, at Albany protest against, 150; orderon the execution of Leisler and Mil- ed to keep 60 men always under his borne, 380; to Sec'y Blathwayt, on command at Fort Albany, 196. the same subject, 381; to the govern- Stage, the first public, to Western New or of Connecticut, giving an account York, 1142. of his proceedings, 383; death of, Stamp act riots said to be fomented by 386; public sentiment regarding him a few lawyers, 823. after his death, 411. Stanwix, treaty of Fort, ratified, 960, Small pox prevails at Boston, 72; at 974. Albany, 252; among the Mohawks, Staten Island, people of, afraid of a 254. popish plot, 29. Smith, Rev. John, catholic chaplain to Steam navigation, early, papers on, Lt. Gov. Nicholson, 28. 1011, et seq. Smithtown, rate list of, 531. Steuben county erected, 1135; the Rer. Sodus, settlement of, 1134, 1139, 1140. Mr. Gray moves into, 1136; first Speeches, Indian, 572, 627, 632. newspaper in, ib.; militia of; mills Southold, a force ordered to be raised in, in 1799, 1152. for the defence of, 274; rate lists of, Stevens, John, petition of, for an ex447, 535. elusive right for his steam boat, 1102. Southampton, rate lists of the town of, Suffolk county submits to Leisler, 248~ 456, 536. Sulphur spring in Western New-York, &taas, Capt. Jochem, ordered by Leis- 1118, 1176. ler to take possession of Fort Orange Superior, Lake, copper mines on, 920. and to be commander thereof, 51, Susquehannah river, the names of the 145; Leisler's instructions to, 52; several Indian settlements on the, these commissions but little regarded 715; the course of the, 1159. at Albany, 59; ordered by the con- Swartwout, Roelof, delicacy of, as to vention there to Saratoga, 89; noti- fieedom of elections, 230. fied by the convention that they will Sweegachie, a French settlement on resist all Leisler's efforts to change the St. Lawrence, 724, 727, 768. the government in Albany, 104; acT. Talmadge, Lt. Enos, ordered to Sche- Title of the king of England to North nectady, 132. America set forth, 605. Taverns, the principal, between Al- Tobacco, price of, at New-York, in bany and Canandaigua in 1799, 1167. 1689, 33; raised in western NewTen Broeck, Wessel, ambassador un- Yorl, 1174. der Dongan, 38; appointed commis- Tonawanda creek, course of the, 1178. sary to the expedition against Cana- Tonnoraunto, 1108. da, 194. Toronto, traders arrested at, 857; no Thanksgiving for General Johnson's person to trade at, 878. victory at Lake George, a day of, Townly, Richard, ordered to be arordered, 698. rested, 74. Three Rivers Point, 1163, 1164. Towns in Ontario and Genesee counTidescung, chief of the Delawares, ties, votes of the, in 1804, 1182. enquiry ordered into the complaints Trainbands of New-York, declaration of, against Pennsylvania, 789; post- of the, 10. poned, 792. Treat, Gov., letters from Leisler to, Timber in the Genesee country, 1173, 20, 21, 25, 68, 69, 235, 254, 257, 258, 1174. 261, 265, 269, 316'; orders LivingTioga river, 1159; course of the, 1162, ston's conditional arrest, 188; has 1177. only the name of governor, 228; letTionondage, the Mohawks..demand aid ter to Leisler from, 233; Messrs. to build their new castle at, 8T. 1210 INDEX. Edsal and Pembroke's letter to, 243; Turtle bay belongs to Sir P, Warren, secretary Clarkson's letter to, 327. 814. Treaty at Fort Stanwix ratified, 960, Tuscarora settled, 1134. 974. Tuscaroras, a cradle hung up in the Trees, the several sorts of, in the Ge- council house of the Five Nations on nesee country, 1111. the adoption of the, 635. U. Ulster county, drafts of men and pro- Union of all the colonies plan for a, visions ordered to the frontier from, 612. 313, 314; attack of the Indians on Utica, 1165. some settlers in, 764. V. Valiant, Rev. Father, 205; a list of Vermillye, Johannes, sent delegate to property seized belonging to the, Connecticut, 74. 208. Vessels condemned, 305, 306. Van Cortland, Mr., called on by Leis- Virginia, a new province proposed to ler to repair the king's fort, 8; or- be erected in western, 998; extracts dered to be arrested, 60, 74; makes from the minutes of the assembly his escape, 62. of, on claims of Rumsey and Fitch, Van Schaick, L., letter from, regard- 1079. ing Indian movements, 18. Voight, Henry, applies for a patent Yarick, Rev. MSr., imprisonment by for a pipe boiler, 1082. Leisler of the, 431; deposed and Votes cast in 1804, in Ontario and Gefined, 432. nesee Counties, 1182. Verchere, Mons., intrigues with the Vroman, Adam, letter of, to Jacob Indians of Lake Erie, 951; belt and Milborne, 117. speech of, sent to Sir Wm. Johnson, 952. VW. Wages in Western New-York in 1804, to convey Laforay, a Frenchman, to rates of, 1185. Plymouth colony, 265; to arrest PeWalley, Major, Leisler's letter to, 252. ter Dumont, Andrew ffalourdell, and Wandelaer, Johannes de, deacon at Michael Antony, 274, 5; to pay Col Albany, 202. Johnson, 641. War proclaimed between France and Warren, Sir Peter, nature of his legacy England, 36. to Sir Wm. Johnson's relatives, 813; Warrant to arrest Matthew Plowman, debts due by the Cosby family to, 44, 74; Nicolas Bayard, Peter I. Ma- 814; Sir Wmi. Johnson's remarks on rius, Wm. Nicolls and Robert Reed, the will of, 815, 825, 828. 60; John Jennings, Samuel Palmer, Washington, Gen., certificate of, in Thomas Bedient, Colonel Thomas favor of James Rumsey's invention, Willet, Capt. Hicks, Daniel White- 1046, 1089; extract of a letter from head and Edward Antil, 70; Anthony James Rumsey to, 1076. Brokholst and Stephen V. Cortland, Weiser, Mr., speech of, to the Six Na60, 74; Col. Dongan, 70, 74; Richard tions, 585. Townley, --- Emmet, 74; to fetch Velles, destruction of, by the French, Lafleur and Villeroy from Sarachto- 260. e, 81; to arrest Matthys Brockholst, Wessels, Dirck, Leisler's letter ap90; of forcible entry into Wm. Tel- proving the conduct of, 266. ler's house, 220; to seize on all ket- Westchester, the election of a new tles in Albany, 221; to provide Indi- member ordered for the county of, an shoes, canoes, boxes for his Ma- 283; letter of the magistrates of, jesty's service, 222; to seize pork, against Leisler's partizans, 330. 243; to arrest T. de Key, Jerry Tot- Western New-York, papers relating hill, D. Lambert, Edward Tailor, to, 1103. John Crooke, Elias Boudinot, Thos. Weyman, John, appointed to command Wenham, Wm. Taylor, L. Kiersted, a vessel against the French, 275. Brant Schuyler, J. de Key, et al., Wheat, price of, in Western Newg63; to seize a brigantine, &c., 264; York, in 1791, 1799, 1119, 1148. INDEX 121 Whiskey, in Western New-York, price Wood creek complained of by, 284^ of, in 1799, 1149; distilled there in is put under arrest by Leisler at Allarge quantities in 1804, 1184. bany and sent to New-York, 288; Whitehead, Daniel, ordered arrested, Sec'y Allyn's defence of, 289; Leis70, 263. ler justifies his proceedings against, Whitestown in 1792, 1105; population 300; accused of inefficiency, adultery, of, 1106; road to, in 1792, 1131. &c., 301; served in the Duke of Willet, Col. Thomas, ordered arrested, York's guards, 302; is accompanied 70, 263; Sec'y Clarkson desires him to Albany by Livingston, ib. to bring in aid against Leisler, 332. Women, Cherokee, speech of the, to William and Mary, Leisler's declara- the women of the Six Nations, 767. tion in favor of, 4; proclaimed in Woodward, Timothy, proposes to proAlbany, 7; Leisler's order to pro- pagate the gospel among the Indians, claim, 50; petition of Leisler's son 627. to, 422. Wraxall, Capt. Peter, appointed sec'y Williamsburgh, 1107; a road made to the provincial congress at Albany, from Lycoming creek to, 1133. 563; sworn, 564; recommended for Williamson, Col., a description of the the office of secretary of Indian afsettlement of the Genesee country by, fairs, 647; aid-de-camp to General 1127; some particulars of, 1168. Johnson at the battle of Lake George, Winthrop, John, Major-General, Leis- 697; Miss Miller's letter to, 764; letler's letter to, 190; proposed by Con- ters to Sir Wm. Johnson from, 785, necticut as commander-in-chief of 787; his opinion of the value of the the expedition against Canada, 253; British possessions in the East Indies, agreed to by Leisler, 265; ternis en- 788; death of, 793. tered into between Leisler's com- Writs for the election of new members missioners at Albany and, 278; con- of assembly, in Leisler's time, for mission appointing, commander-in- Queens county, 282; for New-York, chief of the expedition against the 283; for Westchester and for Albany, French, 281; the want of canoes at ib, INDEX TO ILLUSTRATIONS. VIEW Op SACKETTS HARBOR,............................. to face Titleo VIEW OF NEW-YORK................................. to face page 3 PORTRAIT OF SIR WILLIAM JOHNSON,............................. 545 PR,AN OF FORT HERRIMER,................................ 732 MAP OF NIAGARA RIVER,........................................ 792 PLAN OF FORT NIAGARA...................................... 868'AP OF LAND LEFT BY SIR WMi. JOHNSON TO HIS INDIAN CHILDREN, 1004 PLANS OF RUMSEY'S AND FITCHES BOATS,.......................... 1011 HUTCHING'S PLATE OF FITCH'S "c.......................... 1039 VIEW OF FORT NIAGARA......................................... 1105 MAP OF GENESEE COUNTRY, 1790,............................... 1114 GEN.ESEE FALLS,.................................................. 1143 I I.......................... 1164 MAP OF GENESEE COUNTRY, (1804,)............................. 1169 VIEW OF BUFFALO............................................... 1178 MAP OF WESTERN NEW-YORK, 1809,....................... 1188