£*^-c "3 , * ' V 1. V '•>j.^i^'J Ns:* 1 "* jr/^JK- l.-^'.V-- wmm- ¦ }>-'i^. TTll'illrTliTl YALE UNIVERSITY LIBRARY 1939 THE CORRESPONDENCE OF THE COLONIAL GOVERNORS OF RHODE ISLAND 1723- 1775 CHANS rOX COAT OF ARMS THE CORRESPONDENCE OF THE COLONIAL GOVERNORS OF RHODE ISLAND 172-3-1775 Published by the National Society of the Colonial Dames of America in the State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations EDITED BY GERTRUDE SELWYN KIMBALL IN TWO VOLUMES VOL. I BOSTON AND NEW YORK HOUGHTON, MIFFLIN AND COMPANY (jStlie BitierjSibe ptejij*, Cambtibfle 1902 COPYRIGHT, 1902, BY THE NATIONAL SOCIETY OF THE COLONIAL DAMES OF AMERICA IN THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS ALL RIGHTS RESERVED Published December, igos TO THE MEMORY OF THOSE HONORED MEN {•ROM WHOM HAS COME DOWN A PRECIOUS LEGACY THESE VOLUMES ARE 2)eliitatelr IN GRATEFUL REMEMBRANCE BY THE NATIONAL SOCIETY OF THE COLONIAL DAMES OF AMERICA IN THE STATE OlJ RHODE ISLAND AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS PREFACE In presenting to the public these volumes of the Correspondence of the Colonial Governors of Rhode Island, the Colonial Dames of Rhode Island are fulfilling one purpose for which their Society was founded, namely, " To perpetuate the memory of those honored men whose sacrifices and labors in Colonial times potentially aided in laying the foun dations of a great Republic " and " To collect and preserve the records of their sacrifices." With this purpose at heart, the Society has gladly availed itself of the opportunity to place before the general reader these letters, which have been almost inaccessible in the archives of the State. This is done with the hope of increasing in those of the present day the feeling of patriotism and the knowledge of " the sturdy independence of character and love of liberty regulated by law " which animated these heroic an cestors in their sacrifices for the great principles which they exemplified in their lives and for which they contended. Jeanie Lippitt Weeden, Sarah Perkins J. Babcock, Helen Hazard Bacon, Committee on Publication. October 27, 1902. INTRODUCTION The manuscript correspondence of the governors of Rhode Island, from which these documents are copied, is preserved in a series of twenty-eight folio volumes, in the archive-room of the state. They cover the years from 1729 to 1839, and contain a mass of .the most varied information, of widely dif fering degrees of value. It is a matter for regret and aston ishment that the official correspondence of the colony of Rhode Island for the sixty-four years antedating 1729 should have completely disappeared. The aim of these volumes is to present all the available material in this series which lies between 1729 and 1775, and which has not heretofore been printed. The greater part of the letters have been taken from the series just mentioned. Six are copied from a volume of manuscripts in the custody of the state entitled. Papers Relating to the Old French War, lys^-iydl. Others were found in certain blank-books which had been used fbr keeping the various accounts current of the colonial administration; or amid bundles of loose papers, of an extremely miscellaneous nature. A few are in a volume of manuscript Orders in Council. Two were taken from the volumes of transcripts from the Public Record Office, which are in the possession of the John Carter Brown Library. Seven were obtained through the courtesy of the librarian of the Rhode Island Historical Society, from manuscripts in the possession of the society. This raaterial consists of letters to and from the colonial governors, together with documents which came into their hands in the form of enclosures. Introduction A considerable number of the letters now in the archives were printed by Mr. John R. Bartlett, in his edition of the Colonial Records of Rhode Island, and such letters (with very few exceptions) have been omitted from this collection ; but occasionally, a letter of great importance, or one neces sary for a proper understanding of other letters, has been reprinted. The series ends with the close of Governor Wanton's last administration, in 1775, when the revolutionary era may fairly be said to begin in Rhode Island. It has been thought that the value of the letters would be enhanced by following the spelling and punctuation of the eighteenth century. Whatever may give us the atmosphere of a bygone age is of importance to us, and for this reason it seems well worth our while to preserve the eccentric ortho graphy, as well as the quaint phrases, of the original docu ments. Great care has been taken to reproduce individual peculiarities of this sort, and it will be seen that the oft-re peated assertion respecting the illiteracy of the early Rhode- Islanders finds occasional illustration in these pages. An Appendix gives a list of those letters printed in the Colonial Records of Rhode Island, chronologically arranged. The colonial governor was at once the representative of the Crown before his colony and of his colony before the Crown ; and this held true whether he was appointed to his office by the Crown, or whether he was elected by the people of the colony, — as was the case in Connecticut and Rhode Island in the eighteenth century. Under either alternative the governor was the medium of official intercourse, — in all the colonies he was called upon to answer to the home gov ernment ^or the proceedings of the colonists within his juris diction. To him instructions were sent by the Lords of Trade, or by the Secretary of >§tate, as to the course of pol icy to be adopted by the colony. He was told which forms of development were to be encouraged and which were to be repressed, and he was expected to report at short intervals Introduction xi to the home government. The revenue officials of the Crown looked to the governor for support in the fulfilment of their duties, and it is only fair to say, in this connection, that to this same fountain-head of authority the Rhode Island smugglers looked, with an assured confidence, the happy result of long experience, that their governor could be relied upon to temper justice with mercy. The governors of the charter colonies — Rhode Island and Connecticut — were elected annually by the people, and instructed by the As sembly, and, naturally, they leaned for support upon their constituents rather than upon the English government. The cases in which the executive of a popular constituency, the government of whose colony was conducted according to the terms of a charter, would have occasion to consult the Plantation Office would be few in comparison with those aris ing in a Crown colony. The correspondence of the Rhode Island governors shows an almost complete absence of that atmosphere of local political intrigue which so constantly recurs in the despatches of the governors of New York and Pennsylvania. The Ward-Hopkins feud, which for years divided families and embittered neighbors, made no impres- , sion upon the official correspondence with the mother country. The letters of the Rhode Island governors, then, deal almost entirely with what may be called the external rela tions of the colony. In matters concerning two or more colonies, for instance, were the subject of discussion bound aries, or military levies, or rights of jurisdiction, each party concerned hastened to lay before the Lords of Trade the claims of his colony to consideration. Or, did some special feature of the colonial administration attract attention in England, special inquiries on that subject were made of the colonial governor. While the governor was the channel of communication, in Rhode Island the ordinary course of procedure was this. A committee was appointed by the General Assembly to draw xii Introduction up a letter embodying the facts relating to some subject of interest or importance. The letter was then presented to the Assembly in the form of a report ; a vote of approval, or disapproval, was passed, and the governor was instructed to write accordingly. For example, in the sessions of October, 1744, it was voted that "Whereas, the committee appointed to prepare the draught of a letter of instructions to be sent to the agent of this colony, in Great Britain, for him to oppose the taking away our charter privileges, did present the same for the consideration of this Assembly ; the said draught be, and it is hereby accepted and approved of, and that three fair copies thereof, be signed by His Honor, the Governor, and sent in three different vessels, to the said agent, as soon as may be." ^ It will be here observed that the correspondence of the colonial governor with the Plantation Office was not always a direct personal communication. Often it was so, but fre quently — and more frequently in the later period of colonial existence — the observations of the governor were addressed to the colonial agent in London, and by him brought to the attention of the Lords of Trade, or of the Lords of the Treasury, or of prominent members of Parliament, as best befitted the occasion. The agent acted with the governor as a medium of intercourse with the home government. He was accountable to the colony Assembly, by whom he was formally accredited, and from whom he received a somewhat precarious and intermittent salary in return for his services. In the correspondence of the Govemor and Company of Rhode Island with the successive colonial agents at London we have an interesting aspect of our colonial history, which has never yet been adequately worked out, and the historical importance of which is always underestimated, and that is, 1 See Col. Rec. of R. I., V. 97, and the Assembly's letter on p. 284 of this volume. Other instances may be found in Col. Rec, V. 157, 180, 190, 278, 282-284, and with equal frequency throughout the years covered by this volume. Introduction xiii the influence of English life and thought and politics — in a word, of English contemporary history — upon the history of the colonies. This influence was undoubtedly very great. Because we have naturally and inevitably studied the mili tary aspects of our history more thoroughly than its institu tional, economic, or social sides, therefore the influence which England exerted upon American history embodies it self to our minds in the antagonistic guise of a tax upon tea, or a series of Navigation Acts. But there was another sort of influence exerted by England, — one which is not to be found in the statute-books, an influence exerted for the most part unobtrusively and indirectly, and yet one which bore an important share in moulding ancLdeveloping the Ameri can type of the Anglo-Saxon race. English precedejit and example were all-powerful with the American colonist. The traditions of the Atlantic seaboard were those of England, whether the colonist raised his voice for civic freedom, or anathematized the hereditary enemies of his race. Richard Partridge, writing against the Sugar Act of 1733, "because of the levying a Subsidy upon a Free People without their Knowledge [and] ag°'. their consent, who have the libertys and Imminitys granted them [of] Natural born Subjects, and when they have enough to do to raise Taxes for their own Support," * presents the good old English point of view no less surely than does Major Samuel Angell of the Rhode Island militia, when he writes to Governor Hopkins of the alleged atrocities committed by the French at Oswego, " if Such Usage Wont Rais the Sperrits and Warm the Blood of Old Olivers Sons I know not What Will." "^ The colonist received alike his political creed and his household furniture, his library and the fashion of his garments, from London. The very statutes of the colonial assembly speak of England as "home."^ Communication with the mother country. 1 See letter of February 28, 1733. 2 See letter of September s, 1756. » See Col. Rec. of R. /., V. 60, 117. XIV Introduction "T" though slow, was continuous. Especially was this true of a seafaring population like that of Rhode Island, many of whose wealthy merchants had crossed the Atlantic in their own good ships. English protection was given and received as a matter of course. English supervision of the details of colonial life was, on the whole, far-reaching, thorough, and beneficent. The governors of the colonies were — as our letters tes tify—the most important channel of communication with England. Their information from home presented two points of view. First, that of the Lords of Trade, upon whom devolved the business of colonial administration. This body had in its custody all the records, grants, and papers relating to the colonies. The Lords were required to ascer tain what were the principal products and industries, to exact frequent reports from the various governors, to keep the run of desirable incumbents for colonial offices, to be informed as to the action of the colonial Assemblies, and to give ear to complaints from any source. Governors were in structed to correspond both with the Lords of Trade and with one of the principal secretaries of state ; and although this procedure was changed for a short time (i 752-1 766), it was to these officials that the governors usually wrote during the later colonial period. That this correspondence was maintained on both sides with unfailing regularity is notori ously not the case. Many men of distinction served on the Commission for Trade and Plantations, and many served faithfully and well. On the other hand — and especially during Walpole's long ascendency ^ — there intervened peri ods of what Burke described as "salutary neglect." It is said that the Duke of Newcastle, when Secretary of State, had a closet full of despatches from American governors which had lain unopened for years, and the wits of a later generation declared that George Grenville lost America be- 1 From 1 721 to 1742. Introduction xv cause he was so foolish as to read the American de spatches. The second point of view introduced to the colonial gov ernor was that of the agent who represented the colony's interests at London. His position demanded that the agent should be a man of affairs, of experience and judg ment, possessing common sense, discretion, and tact, — alive to the needs of his colony, yet not offensively importunate to those in the great world whose interest he should find- it necessary to secure. It is evident that the charter colonies stood in especial need of such an intermediary. The condi tions of their government forbade that there should be any personal influence exerted by their executive upon the official world of London. Yet never has there been a time when per sonal influence counted for so much in English political life as in the first three quarters of the eighteenth century. The royal governor, the appointee of the Crown, had, necessarily, a more or less powerful coterie of friends in England. For the charter governments, such friends must be acquired and maintained by the persistent efforts of the colonial agent. It will be found that a large proportion of the letters here printed are those of the two agents for Rhode Island, Rich ard Partridge and Joseph Sherwood, who served her during this period. Both these men were members of the Society of Friends, as were many prosperous and influential Rhode Islanders. Partridge was the son of Lieutenant-Governor William Partridge of New Hampshire, who was a man of considerable enterprise and dexterity. He was put forward by the popular party in that province to act against Lieuten ant-Governor Usher, who had been appointed in the interest of the heirs of the Mason, or Allen, claim. " Partridge was," says Belknap, in his History of New Hampshire, " a native of Portsmouth, a shipwright, of an extraordinary mechanical genius, of a politic turn of mind, and a popular man." * His 1 Vol. I. 297. xvi Introduction commission as lieutenant-governor was obtained by the in terest of Sir Henry Ashurst, and was dated June 6, 1696. We also hear of him in quite another connection. In 1696 the Lords of Trade appointed four commissioners to investi gate the conditions of the timber supply and naval stores which New England might be expected to produce, and to encourage the colonists to foster such an industry. The two commissioners appointed on behalf of the colonies were William Partridge and Robert Lamb, who were recom mended by Sir Henry Ashurst. They were to " introduce trade with New England in whatever naval materials that province could produce fit for the use of the royal navy." It is certain that Partridge made a very good profit for him self as well as for the colonies out of the timber trade, and even had the temerity to send his masts to Portugal. Lord Bellomont wrote home, in 1700, in a state of intense indig nation, that Partridge had " openly boasted of a voyage by which an outlay of less than ;^300 netted for him ;£i6oo at Lisbon, and that he had set all the country agog." Partridge protested that his acts were misrepresented, and that he only sent to Portugal such inferior cargoes as were not good enough for the Royal Navy ; and it is probable that he was backed by friends at court, since the Lords of Trade allowed his ships to pass.^ It was probably through the interest of his London friends that Govemor Partridge 2 established his son Richard as a London merchant. His daughter Mary mar- 1 This account is taken from /. H. U. Studies, extra volume XVII " Industrial Experiments in the British Colomes of North America " by Eleanor L. Lord. ' " An inscription on a monument in the burying-ground of the first parish in Newbury states that "the very Honorable WiUiam Partridge Esqr sustained the government of New Hampshire for several years and departed this life the 3d of Jan. 172I, in the 7Sth year of his age." He probably moved to Newbury about 1715, as he was received into p-l, I, <='^"'^^[^*hat year. According to the entry in his family Bible, his son Richard was born on " the 3* day of Dec. 1681 at i oast 3 P. M." Hist, and Gen. Reg., XIII. 265. * ^ Introduction xvii ried Governor Jonathan Belcher of Massachusetts, himself a bit of a courtier, and a warm friend of Richard Partridge. It was due to his brother-in-law's exertion among the Quakers of Yorkshire (so ran the story) that the money for Belcher's commission as Governor of New Jersey was forthcoming, in later years.^ In the June sessions of 1715 the Assembly of Rhode Island took into consideration " the necessity there is for this colony to impower an agent in England, to trans act for this colony all their concerns, which they have beyond seas, in Great Britain, &c., and the damage that hath accrued to this colony for want thereof ; " whereupon the Assembly enacted " that Mr. Richard Partridge, of London, in Great Britain, &c. be empowered as an agent from this colony, to represent this colony before the King and council, or otherwise, as the affairs of this colony shall require ; and to be allowed for his salary, for the performance of what is needful in the premises, £i,o per annum, during his officiat ing in the said capacity." ^ Partridge held this appointment until his death, in 1759. At times during these years he represented Connecticut and New Jersey, as well as Rhode Island. Through his letters and those of his successor, Sher wood, a London attorney, the governors are informed of the details of English political life, the town-talk of London, the ups and downs of party politics, the personal disposition and temper of the leading men of affairs, the drift of public opinion, the relations of the Continental powers to one an other and to England. Were one to judge of Partridge's standing in the official world of London from his own letters, he would seem to have been a man of discretion and good sense, who gave great attention to detail, and was possessed of a certain tact which suggests his father's " politic turn of mind," and which carried him into a sort of intimacy with the under-officials of the great departments of state. 1 See Mass. Hist. Soc. Coll., 6 ser., VI., preface. ' Col. Rec. ofR. /., IV. 187. xviii Introduction We find him securing legal advice for the colony,^ and offering shrewd and timely suggestions as to the policy to be observed by the colonial government.^ He assures the gov ernor and Assembly of his untiring zeal for thdr interests. He drops a word of warning now and then. Not infre quently he adopts a tone of instruction and remonstrance which savors of pei;pmptoriness toward the traders and farm ers across the sea.^ Communication was slow and difficult ; indeed, most letters were written in duplicate. Under these circumstances the success with which the colony's business was conducted depended largely upon the personal abilities of the agent. His powers were necessarily elastic. The letter of agency issued to Sherwood in 1759 purports to " enable him to transact perform and finish all such Busi nesses of the said Colony as may be committed to him." Both Partridge and Sherwood frequently ask to be instructed respecting the course of action desired by the Assembly, and carefully disclaim responsibility * in the colony's affairs. On the other hand, we find throughout the Records of Assembly resolutions appointing a committee to draw up instructions for the agent,^ to whom are sent pressing solicitations that he should urgently forward the colony's interests.^ Services of particular importance were felt to deserve spe cial remuneration. The agent's salary was not munificent, and further, would seem to have been usually in arrears. Partridge writes, in 1741, and sends his account with the colony, showing a balance of £211 in his favor, which he hopes " will be remitted in due time, with a further Supply 1 E. g., letters of July 10, 1732; 4th mo. 29, 1734; and December 3i> 1736. 2 See letters of February 4, 1732, and 3 mo. 28, and July 28, 1743. = See letters of July 14, 1742; May 8, 1744 ; February 6, 1745. « See letters of May 2, 1740 ; May 20, 1748 ; June 8, 1763. " See Col. Rec. of R. I., V. 79, 93, 97. « See Col Rec. of R. /., VI. 322, 411, 433, 463. Introduction xix to enable me to prosecute the Affairs of the Government and which will be very acceptable to me ;" ^ and again in 1744, respecting an obnoxious bill before Parliament, he writes for instructions "together with Suitable Remittances, for its pitty the Cause sho."^ be Starved. It being now a Consider able time since I have received anything from Rhode Is land." ^ On June 15, when the termination of the long- vexed question of the Massachusetts boundary seemed to be actually in sight. Partridge refers to an assurance made him nine years earlier " of the Assemblys Benevolence when the Boundary Cause was over," and leaves the sequel "to their Generosity." This " Boundary Cause " absorbed much of Partridge's • time and attention from the first appeal to the King in Council, in 1734, down to the final decision, in 1746. The dispute was a legacy from the times of the Plymouth Colony, and was involved in unavoidable confusion, arising from ob scurely worded grants, framed by men whose notions of the territory they were parcelling out were of the vaguest possi ble description. It was impossible to lay down definite lines of demarcation according to the terms of the charters. One wonders, not that there were boundary disputes, but that the conflicting claims were ever adjusted. There were, however, practical standards of adjustment. The sturdy New Eng land settlers who took up the land soon came to regard pos session and immunity from taxes as the two determining conditions of their allegiance. There grew up along the disputed territory of the Attleborough gore a lawless popula tion, only too ready to resort to intimidation and violence under the cover of a disputed right of jurisdiction.^ Each deed of violence brought reprisals, and the northeastern corner of the colony became a veritable debatable land. In 1733 the Rhode Island Assembly voted to petition the 1 See letter of May 15, 1741. ^ See letter of May 8, 1744. 8 See Jonathan Draper's Deposition, March 5, 1734, p. jo. XX Introduction King for a settlement of the dispute. The claim set forth was to the gore already mentioned, and to a boundary three miles to the east of Narragansett Bay, according to the terms of the charter. The result was that commissioners from New York, New Jersey, and Nova Scotia were appointed, in 1 74 1, to hear the case and to decide the points at issue.^ They gave Rhode Island the gore, but only a portion of the territory east of Narragansett Bay which she had claimed. The Massachusetts claims were set entirely on one side. Both colonies appealed from the decision : Rhode Island because she hoped for more territory on the east, and Mas sachusetts, from the decision in every particular. After two years of hearings and rehearings before the Plantation Com mittee of the Privy Council, the decision of the commission was confirmed.^ In the February following, Massachusetts petitioned for a rehearing, and Partridge immediately filed a counter-petition to prevent this "Fraudulent and Clandes tine Measure." The rehearing was denied, and in May, 1746, Partridge writes to Rhode Island that at length the Order in Council, confirming the judgment of 1741, is obtained. But there was still a long while to wait before the patient agent received his "handsom Gratuity," promised in 1734.^ Six teen years later (in August, 1750) he writes Governor Greene that he charges .^^300 for his " Extraordinary Trouble in the Boundary Affair for what the Gov', then for the time being gave me Expectation I should be considered in, and which I hope the Colony will Judge but reasonable." Throughout the letters of Partridge and of Sherwood, we find almost complete unanimity of feeling between them and the colo nial government. Remonstrances on the lack of remittances occur. Sherwood seems to have been hardly judged for his 1 See Report of the Lords of Trade, December 21, 1738. Also let ters of Partridge, June 29, December 20, 1734 ; January 29, 1735 ; No vember 3, 1738, etc. " See letters of June 15 and December 11, 1744. 'See letter of December 20, 1734. Introduction xxi perfectly unavoidable failure to secure a share of the parlia mentary grant of 1756 for Rhode Island. These matters were but incidental. Where policy was in question, the agent and the colony felt that their interests were one. If the agent met with opposition, it came from other colonies or from the crown officials. He had no thrusts from a crown governor to parry. Like himself, the governor feared only the Assembly. A perusal of the agents' letters will show their care for the colony's interests and their sympathy with the difficulties which she encountered ; while they en deavor to bring before their constituents the point of view of the London official circles, and the necessity of combining accuracy, discretion, formality, and untiring diplomacy in dealing with the great personages of court and state. We turn now to the agents' home correspondents. The eighteenth century was in Rhode Island — as in all the colo nies — a period of political growth and development. Before its close the fringe of straggling villages and townships lining the shores of Narragansett Bay had grown into a community which recognized the fact that its members had common interests and a common life. There were certain factors contributing to such a develop ment as this in all the plantations of the Atlantic seaboard. In the experience of Rhode Island there were, besides these, local causes and circumstances which helped to determine her course of political activity as a colony, and have since been conspicuous in shaping her course as a state. The unconventionality, verging on lawlessness, of the early,set- tlers of Rhode Island has become an historical proverb. Pre cisely as the eighteenth century was about to open, Lord Bellomont described their government as " the most irregu lar and illegal . . . that ever any Englisji government was," ^ and that reputation it long maintained. Each man did that which was right in his own eyes, and guided his course by 1 W. E. Foster, Stephen Hopkins, I. 3, note. xxii Introduction the sense of individual responsibility which lives and lets live, even to the point of becoming individual irresponsibility. The force of reason and of long-established custom will not guide a community of men who are thus self-sufficient. They will insist upon maintaining and asserting their right of individual action. They will prefer to act as units, and it is the man of strong personality, or extraordinary audacity, who will attract them and become their leader, never the man who simply embodies a principle, or appeals to the law of the fathers. If, with this thought in mind, we look into the his tory of the seventy-five years which preceded the Revolution for the individuals who influenced the political life of Rhode Island, we shall find not a few of them among her governors. In this roll-call the name of Samuel Cranston meets us upon the threshold of the eighteenth century. Chosen to be governor of the colony by twenty-eight successive reelec- tions (1698-1727), his administration may be fairly looked upon as " the first of that series of influences which made the eighteenth century in Rhode Island a period of develop ment." 1 Unfortunately none of Govemor Cranston's cor respondence is now in the archives of the state of Rhode Island. Eight letters bearing his signature are published in the fourth volume of the Colonial Records of Rhode Island. One of these is copied from The New York Colonial MSS., LIII. 104, and the others are taken from transcripts of the originals in the Public Record Office.^ One of the perplexing problems of Governor Cranston's time was the definition of the boundary line between Rhode Island and Connecticut. A summary of the case for Rhode Island will be found in the somewhat lengthy letter with which the present volume begins. This document sets forth, in the quaint phraseology of the time, the suffermgs of the early settlers, their efforts to obtain a royal charter of incor- ^ Foster, Stephen Hopkins, I. 7. ^ These transcripts are in the possession of the John Carter Brown Library of Providence. Introduction xxiii poration, the guile with which the Connecticut agent, Win throp, obtained such a charter from Lord Clarendon, "design ing thereby to Eclips this Colony of all the Lands on the Main Land that was included within our former Charter," and the determination of the colonists to stand by the priv ileges of their charter, as becomes men who " have a Tinc ture of the ancient British Blood in their veines." Testimony, reports, and memorials bearing upon this matter had been amassed in prodigal profusion for the edifi cation and instruction of the Lords of Trade, who at length, in 1723, proposed that both colonies should cut the Gordian knot of conflicting boundary lines by voluntarily surrender ing their charters and annexing themselves to New Hamp shire. This proposition the contending parties considered with a solemnity which reflects credit upon their appreciation of decorum and is far from belying their sense of humor. Connecticut declined to surrender her charter, but expressed entire willingness to abide by the royal decision. Rhode Island, too, objected to the proposed surrender of her char tered privileges, and her agent, Partridge, sustains Governor Cranston, saying pertinently, "As farr as I can learn it is not only impracticable to joyne Rhode Island, Connec'. and New Hampshire together by reason of the distant Situation of the Governments but it would be very Injurious to our Inhabitants." ^ The matter was referred to the King in Council, and the point at issue, namely, whether the eastern boundary of Connecticut was Narragansett Bay or the Paw- catuck River, was ultimately decided in favor of Rhode Island.^ Cranston's successor was Joseph Jencks of Pawtucket (then included within the township of Providence), who had served the colony in several capacities before his election as ' See p. 13. 2 See Order in Council, February 8, 172^, in Col. Rec. of R. I., IV. 370. xxiv Introduction governor. The boundary of this small colony of Rhode Island was in a state of chronic readjustment, and in 1710 Jencks was given extraordinary powers for six months as a special boundary commissioner to come to some settlement with Colonel Joseph Dudley regarding the Massachusetts line.^ His efforts proved successful, and he was then called upon to exert himself in behalf of his colony's claim against Connecticut, by an appointment to act with Partridge, in London, to " manage the affairs of this colony for the set tling of the bounds between this colony and those of Massa chusetts Bay and Connecticut, and all other business that may arise or happen." 2 As has been stated, the Connecti cut claim was adjusted in February, 1727. In April, Jencks, who had filled the position of deputy-governor with satisfac tion to himself and the colony since his return from England, in 1722, was called upon to take the office of governor, left vacant suddenly by Cranston's death. The action of the Assembly regarding his residence indicates the prominence of the mercantile and trading interest in the colonial govern ment. It was promptly voted that it was "highly neces sary " for the governor of the colony to live at Newport, "the metropolis of the government," and that since the removal from Pawtucket would be "very chargeable," ;£ioo should be allowed Governor Jencks " to defray the charges of removing his family to Newport." 3 Jencks's administra tion was brought to a close by his veto of a bill authorizing the emission of ;£6o,ooo in bills of credit. The Assembly voted his dissent null and void, upon technical grounds. Both parties appealed to the home government, which decided that neither the Governor of Rhode Island nor the Kmg had power to repeal or annul an act of the General 1 See Col. Rec. of R. I., IV. 94, for the appointment. * See Col. Rec. of R. I., VI. 286. = Col. Rec. OfR. L, IV. 388. Introduction xxv Assembly.* It has been asserted that Jencks had, in the spring of 1731, declared his determination not to accept another reelection. Possibly this decision influenced his uncompromising attitude on the paper money question.^ Be that as it may, it is certain that in the following May, Wil liam Wanton, a prominent merchant of Newport, was called to the position. Wanton was the first representative in public life of a family which gave four governors to the Col ony of Rhode Island. It seems most convenient at this point to depart from a strictly chronological order in speak ing of the Rhode Island governors whose correspondence lies before us, and to combine in one view the four governors of the name and family of Wanton.^ Those remaining — the two Wards, William Greene, and Stephen Hopkins — may be conveniently taken up as a second group. The Wantons represented the most attractive phase of colonial life. They were descendants of a Massachusetts settler of the seventeenth century, who was led to embrace the doctrines of the Quakers from admiration and sympathy for their sufferings under the stern religious dispensation of the Puritan colony. Two of his sons — John and William — moved to Newport, established themselves as shipbuilders, and soon became prominent among the enterprising citizens of the town. Their exploits when young men of twenty- two and twenty-four as leaders of a privateering enterprise against a pirate who was devastating the coasting-trade of the port gained them a local reputation for enterprise and I See Col. Rec. ofR. I., IV. 457-461. * The years of administration in Rhode Island ran from May to May. William Wanton served as governor from May, 1732, to December, 1733- John Wanton served as governor from December, 1733, to July, 1742. Gideon Wanton served as governor from May, 1745, to May, 1746. Gideon Wanton served as governor from May, 1 747, to May, 1 748. Joseph Wanton served as governor from May, 1769, to November, 1775- xxvi Introduction daring. In 1697 they equipped and manned two vessels, and rid Narragansett Bay of a French man-of-war whose depredations had driven the traders from the seas, and this affair seems to have secured for them the notice of the Court in London. We find an existing tradition that the venerable father of the family argued and expostulated in vain against an enterprise so contrary to the rules of their society, but finding his sons obdurate he concluded his appeal by saying, " While it would be a grief to my spirit to hear that ye had fallen in a military enterprise, yet, if go ye will, remember that it would be a greater grief to hear that ye were cowards." That grief was spared him. The French ship was captured, proved a valuable prize, and when, a few years later, the brothers visited London, they were received at Court and presented with silver plate and .appro priate heraldic civilities. William Wanton became, in 1705, deputy for Newport and speaker of the General Assembly. He took part in the Canada expedition of 1709, was bound ary commissioner in the dispute with Connecticut, and served either as deputy or assistant until 1732. In that and the following year he was elected governor. He died in 1734, sincerely mourned by his fellow townsmen. He is described as a " polished gentleman, of easy, polite, and engaging man ners, very hospitable and fond of entertaining his friends." He was succeeded as governor by his brother, John Wanton, a prominent figure in the political and social life of Rhode Island during thirty-six years. In 1706 he represented Newport in the Assembly, and was appointed colonel of the regiment raised for the Canada expedition of 1709. After ward, returning to civic life, he represented Newport from 17 1 2 to 1 72 1, in which year he was elected deputy-gov ernor. In, or about, the year 1712, he publicly joined the society of the Quakers, and from that time travelled much as a religious teacher, and became a powerful and eloquent speaker, whose preaching attracted multitudes, and whose great wealth was devoted to deeds of benevolence. We read Introduction xxvii with interest of Governor John Wanton preaching a sermon on the vanity of earthly greatness before the congregation of Friends in Newport, and so far honoring the dignity of his official position, on the occasion, as to appear before the brethren in his govemor's cloak of scarlet lined with blue. It was John Wanton who, as deputy-governor, in 173 1, summoned the Assembly (when Governor Jenks refused to do so) that the deputies might dispute the right of the gov ernor to veto an act of Assembly, and in this remarkable pro ceeding he was upheld by the officers of the Crown. John Wanton was deputy-governor from 1729 to 1733 ; he was then elected governor and held the office until his death in 1742. The last two years of his administration were filled with preparations for the war with Spain and the resulting expedition against the Spanish West Indies. In this expedi tion of 1740 against Cartagena, as in that of 174.5 against Louisbourg, the most effective service contributed by Rhode Island was through her privateers. Between 1741 and 1743 * twenty-two ships were sent out by the merchants of Newport. Two hundred of the colony militia were despatched to Jamaica in the summer of 1 740, '^ where they became vic tims of the climate and yellow fever. In the following year reinforcements were raised for General Wentworth's attack upon Santiago, and there too failure and hardship awaited the English forces. The lack of harmony and cooperation between Wentworth and Admiral Vernon made it necessary to abandon the expedition. That John Wanton, the Quaker preacher, should issue military commissions, and take other violent measures as chief executive of the colony, led to outspoken remonstrance from his spiritual co-workers. A visiting committee was sent to point out to the aged governor the error of his ways. They were doubtless politely received, and were briefly in- * See lists in Sheffield, Privateersnten of Newport, p. 44. 2 Col. Rec. ofR. /., IV. 576. xxviii Introduction formed that in no particular had their governor " done vio lence to the law of conscience, but in all concerns listening to the still small voice of divine emanation, and being obedi ent thereto." * In 1745 another member of the Wanton family became the chief executive of the colony. This was Gideon, a nephew of William and John Wanton, and like them a prosperous Newport merchant. For ten years he had been the colony treasurer. From 1745 to 1748 he and William Greene (of whom more will be said in connection with another phase of the colony's history) filled, alternately, the position of governor. Their correspondence during these years bears evidence of the part taken by Rhode Island in the Louis bourg expedition of 1745. Shirley's appeal, in January, with its carefully detailed scheme of attack,^ occasioned a special session of the Assembly,^ wherein it was resolved to equip the colony sloop with all necessary warlike stores, and to man her with one hundred and thirty able-bodied seamen, that "she immediately proceed to join the forces raised by the Province of the Massachusetts Bay," * to sail for Cape Breton. The terms of this levy were somewhat changed a few months later,^ when the crew of the sloop was reduced to ninety men, and it was decided to enlist three companies of militia, of fifty men each. One conjectures that the " able-bodied seamen " of Narragansett Bay would prefer to man other vessels than those of the colonial government in these piping times of privateering. An act was also passed "for encouraging soldiers to enlist to go in the in tended expedition against the French settlements on the island of Cape Breton, in the Pay of the Province of the Massachusetts." « In one respect the eager Shirley found 1 Rider's Historical Tract No. 3, p. 55. " See Shirley's letter, p. 298. * See Greene's letter, p. 306. * Col Rec. OfR. /., V. loi. ^ At the regular session, in March. ° Col. Rec. OfR. I., V. 103, 105. Introduction xxix that his preparations had been already anticipated. He intimated that the "frequent and very large Emissions of Paper Bills of Credit ... of late made for the Conveniency of the Inhabitants " of Rhode Island would suggest that at least " one Emission for his Majesty's Service, and for the Support of the Common Cause of the Colonies of New Eng land " ^ might be fairly expected. The loyalty of Rhode Island always rose to an emergency of this nature. The Assembly had already voted an emission of .£6250 "for defraying the charge and expense of both land and sea forces." 2 The troops thus provided for sailed with the Connecticut detachment in the early spring, and were reported safe within the harbor of Canso, on April 26, by Captain Fones, of the colony sloop Tartar, — having already experienced the excitement of being chased by a French cruiser. Just two months later (on June 26),^ Captain Fones sent home his graphic account of the engagement in Famme Goose Bay, which prevented the relief of Louisbourg by the French. Much of the patriotic zeal of the Rhode-Islanders was devoted to enterprises which partook of profit as well as adventure. The merchantmen of Newport and Bristol were easily converted into privateers, and more than one fortune was brought home from the Spanish Main. One of these keen-witted patriots was said to have visited fifteen hundred miles of Spanish territory, and the foundations of many a prosperous mercantile house were laid in the course of the reprisals, and the illicit trading, for which the letters of marque afforded so good an opportunity. Both Shirley and Pepperell were especially anxious to obtain seamen for manning the Vigilant, a 64-gun ship cap tured from the French, and a most valuable addition to the squadron before Louisbourg. The Assembly was willing 1 See Shirley's letter, p. 320. ^ Col. Rec. ofR. I., V. 105. 8 See letter on p. 349. XXX Introduction that two hundred should be enlisted. Shirley writes from Boston, " I find my endeavors will be to little purpose, whilst all mariners subject to be impressed here into His Majesty's service, fly to Rhode Island to avoid it, (as indeed has been long the practice,) and are there sheltered and encouraged, where (I am credibly informed,) there are at this time many hundreds of foreign seamen daily walking the streets of Newport, whilst scarce one is to be found in Boston ; from whence I am assured in particular, that upwards of twenty have secretly fled towards your colony from my impress warrants, within these last two or three days ; " and he begs Governor Wanton not to permit his colony " to be an assy- lum to all mariners coming into New England, for screening themselves from His Majesty's service." * Upon the recep tion of this indignant remonstrance the Assembly voted to impress f of ty seamen, should such a measure be necessary in order to fill up the quota already provided for. Perhaps the Rhode-Islanders felt that their zeal might appear somewhat lukewarm beside that of the enthusiastic levies who had toiled day and night in the trenches before Louisbourg, strong in the conviction that in fighting Roman Catholics they fought idolatry and that the sword of the Lord was'in their hands. At all events, the Assembly, in this same June session, "cast an anchor to windward" by appointing a committee "to extract from the records, the several acts and votes passed by the General Assembly, respecting the expedition against Cape Breton, in order to be sent to the agent; and that they write a letter, to be signed by His Honor, the Governor, and to be sent home, with said votes, setting forth the reasons of this colony's conduct in respect to their not joining in the expedition sooner than they did, to be made use of in the defence of this colony, if there be occasion." 2 Before the summer > This letter is in Col Rec. ofR. I., V. 136. » Col Rec. OfR. I., V. 123. Introduction xxxi closed — as if answering in anticipation the questioning atti tude of his clients — Richard Partridge writes from London,* " Here is an Express lately arrived to the L''.' of the Admi ralty from Boston of the i ^* June giving Some acco* of the progress of the said Expedition, about which the Ministry and People here are mighty Intent and fond off, looking upon it of very great Consequence to this Kingdom as well as to our Plantations, and therefore are very much pleased with the New England People for Undertaking it; but I have had it several times thrown at me as if Rhode Island wou'd contribute very little if anything at all towards it. And very lately as if they were so far from affording their Assistance that when the Sailors belonging to the Kings Men of War or other Ships of War had deserted and got into Rhode Island Government they were there harboured and protected ... if these things shou'd prove true it may make up hill work for me, both at Court and at Parliament." And then the indefatigable Partridge proceeds to write to the Clerk of the Privy Council,^ assuring him of the unswerv ing loyalty and devotion of the colony to British interests, as attested by the fact that her merchants raised ;^8ooo and equipped a 20-gun ship for the Cape Breton expedition. A summing-up of the case for Rhode Island is given in Partridge's petition for the reimbursement of the expenses incurred,^ but it was not until the April of 1748 that he could write to Governor Wanton that the House of Commons had resolved "that a Sum not exceeding ;£6332. 12.10. be granted for Our Colony's Expence in the Cape Breton Expedition." The unfortunate little squadron which started to relieve Annapolis Royal, and was wrecked off Mt. Desert, is like wise the subject of a somewhat voluminous correspondence. 1 See letter on p. 353. ' See letter on p. 359. * See p. 412. xxxii Introduction in which the agent and the governor discuss at length the prospects of reimbursement, and the necessary formalities to be observed. The administration of the fourth Governor Wanton brings us to a later generation in the annals of the colony, although not in those of the Wanton family. Joseph Wanton was a son of that William who was governor from May, 1732, to December, 1733, and first cousin to Gideon, whose corre spondence has just been discussed. His first year of office fell at a time when the political feud known to us as the Ward-Hopkins controversy had just been formally closed by a political treaty between the contending factions. Origi nating some fifteen years earlier in the attempt of the citizens of Providence, backed by the farmers of the outlying dis tricts, to obtain a portion of the political power and prestige which had been in the hands of the Newport merchants for so long a time that the memory of man ran not to the con trary, this local struggle for the political leadership of the colony soon degenerated into an exchange of bitter personal abuse, and a series of annual political intrigues. The echoes of the controversy had not yet died away when the last Wanton took his seat in the governor's chair, and a letter of his son, Joseph Wanton, Jr., whose sympathies were with the Providence party, shows how strong was still the dread of a victorious Ward, — a vision which his opponents could only lay by the potent name of Hopkins. For several years before revolutionary hostilities were actu ally begun, acts of violence were not uncommon in the colo nial seaports, where a mob of rough fellows could be easily collected, and where few townsmen felt disposed to venture their persons and property and incur the ill-will of their fel low citizens in any effort to protect or uphold the customs officials. Newport was, like other ports, the scene of reve nue riots in 1765, and in the ensuing investigation and re crimination Governor Wanton seems to have sided with the provincials. He writes to Lord Hillsborough, when called to Introduction xxxiii account for the destruction of the Liberty, " how unkind and ungentlemanly-like it is for officers, sent abroad by the crown to reside in the colonies, by every means in their power to traduce and even falsely accuse his majesty's faith ful subjects of this Colony to their sovereign and his minis ters of state." ^ His attitude in the affair of the Gaspee is too well known to require elucidation here.^ Joseph Wanton was elected governor for the last time in April, 1775. A few days later a special session of the Assembly was held at Providence to consider the Boston Port Bill. Almost simultaneously with the announcement of this new disciplinary legislation came the news of the fight at Lexington. The deputies promptly passed a resolution stating that whereas they were surrounded with fleets and armies threatening immediate destruction, " to restore peace to the minds of the good people of this Colony, it appears absolutely necessary to this Assembly that a number of men be raised and embodied, properly armed and disciplined, to continue in this Colony as an army of observation, to repel any insult or violence that may be offered to the inhabitants ; " ^ and it was voted to raise fifteen hundred men for that pur pose. To this measure Governor Wanton and three assist ants dissented, on the ground that it would be fatal to the preservation of the colony's charter privileges, would pave the way to civil war, and be an open violation of their official oath of allegiance. When the May session opened, the Gov ernor was too ill to attend. He sent an urgent message to the Assembly, begging the Colony to seek prosperity and happiness in its connection with Great Britain, and to avoid that ruin and destruction which " some of the orders of the late Assembly must inevitably involve them in." The As sembly was in no mood to turn back. It forwarded military 1 CoL Rec. OfR. I., VII. 42. ^ See Col. Rec. of R.I., VII., for the correspondence and evidence upon the subject. 3 Col. Rec. OfR. I., VII. 310. xxxiv Introduction commissions for the Army of Observation to the governor for his signature ; and he promptly refused to sign them. In this emergency the Assembly took the extraordinary step of declaring Governor Wanton's election null and void, on the ground that he had not appeared to take the oath of office (ahhough prevented by illness), and that he had refused to sign the mihtary commissions. " By all which " (says the resolution) " he hath manifested his intentions to defeat the good people of these colonies in their present glorious strug gle to transmit inviolate to posterity those sacred rights which they have received from their ancestors." In June, Wanton appeared and demanded to be sworn into office,* in a message dealing at some length with the various points at issue. His justification was not satisfactory, and in the autumn session following, the Assembly pronounced the office of governor vacant, and Joseph Wanton "totally inimical to the rights and liberties of America, and therefore rendered totally unfit to sustain the said office." 2 There has seemed to be an advantage in grouping political and military events about personalities so similar in character and mental poise as were the four Wantons. Of the other Rhode Island governors in the period under review — the Wards, William Greene, and Stephen Hopkins — the last- named left an impress upon the Rhode Island of his time far more lasting than that made by his contemporaries and rivals. Hopkins began his political life as representative for Scituate in 1732, and served in that capacity for six years. In 1 74 1 he came to Providence, and from that time his name is identified with the public life of his new home, where he soon became a guiding spirit. In 1744 he was sent as deputy to the Assembly, and served with but two intermissions until 1752. In 1750 he was one of a commit tee appointed to report upon the emissions of bills of credit 1 See his letter in Col. Rec. of R. /., VII. 336. 2 Col Rec. OfR. I., VII. 393. Introduction xxxv made by the colony.* This committee was instructed to draw up the answers to certain queries of the Lords of Trade, and their report is a statement of facts, pure and simple. The bearing of these facts upon the prosperity of the colony, and the ruinous policy of the clamor for paper emissions, — which few public men in a community governed by popular elections could withstand, — is set forth by Gov ernor William Greene, in his message to the Assembly, and that in terms which admit no equivocal interpretation. In the following year Hopkins was made chief justice of the Superior Court, his qualifications being those of many a magistrate elected to fill the position of judge by his fellow townsmen because of his well-known integrity and solid common sense. He was still chief justice when elected gov ernor in May, 1755. Hopkins resigned the former position, and a new chief justice was elected, but did not qualify for the office. The Rhode Islanders turned back to Hopkins, and in the August sessions of the Assembly he was again called upon to fill the position, and held it, together with that of govemor, until May, 1756, when a new chief justice was chosen. Hopkins's first administration coincided with the opening of the French and Indian War. As a delegate to the pro vincial' congresses of 1746 and I7S4, he had become familiar with plans for military aggression and defence, and had leamed the necessity of careful organization and combined effort on the part of the colonies. He had listened to Frank lin's " Plan of Union," and felt with him that there was no repose for the thirteen American colonies so long as the French were masters of Canada. Early in 1755 Rhode Island sent one hundred men to Crown Point, and in August, upon the arrival of the news of Braddock's defeat, the Governor called a special session of the Assembly and asked for reinforcements. Another 1 This report is in Col Rec. ofR. I., V. 283. xxxvi Introduction hundred and fifty were forthcoming, to be "sent by land unto Albany," and by the end of the year, successive addi tions had brought the number of the colony's levies up to seven hundred and fifty. Shiriey's letter of January 2, 1756, gives his proposed plan of campaign for the coming year, which was to prove so full of cruel disappointments for him ; and the progress (or lack of progress) during the summer months is detailed in the letters from Winslow, Angell, Governors Shirley and Hardy of New York, and others who figured less conspicuously upon the scene of war. Great anxiety, amounting almost to panic, was felt upon receiving news of the loss of Oswego. Govemor Hopkins writes to Lord Loudoun in October that Rhode Island will augment her quota from sixty to four hundred men, who shall "move forward with the Utmost expedition." They were not called upon to do so, as Loudoun replied that the season was too far advanced to undertake military opera tions, and in November the troops were disbanded. The usual appeal for men came in the following February, and a contingent of four hundred was voted. Before the tardy spring had fairly estabUshed her foothold in bleak New Eng land, evidence arrived of a new spirit which had breathed upon that exceedingly material stronghold, the Colonial Office. William Pitt was Secretary of State from December, 1756, to April, 1757, and his letters of February 4 and 19 were a call to arms which infused energy and enthusiasm even into the formalities of official correspondence. Unfor tunately for the colonies, Pitt's term of office was too brief to enable him at this time to reconstruct the organization of the army and the personnel of the military staff. The cam paign of 1757 closed even more discouragingly than that of the previous year, for upon the loss of Fort William Henry no fate seemed too gloomy for the panic-stricken forebodings of the Americans. The atrocities of the Indians (bad in reality) were exaggerated, and by every post the news was expected that the French were in New York. Pitt's char- Introduction xxx vii acterization of the season's operations as "the last inactive and unhappy Campaign" (writing in December) was no overestimate of the situation. Rhode Island did exert her "utmost endeavors" in response to the summons of the great war minister, and in March, 1758, put one thousand men into the field. The military successes of the next two years — Ticonderoga, Niagara, Louisbourg, and Quebec — are too well known to require description here. Major Wall's letter of September 17, 1758, tells a later generation of the part played by the Rhode Island troops in taking Fort Frontenac* Again, in 1759, a regiment of one thousand men was voted, since "the King hath been pleased, by a letter from the Right Honorable WilUam Pitt, Esq. ... to acquaint this colony that he expects the several governments wUl raise at least as many men as they respectively raised the last year, and as many more as their circumstances will admit." In the Seven Years' War, as in that of 1745, the part taken by Rhode-Islanders was played far more upon sea than upon land. Newport led all other colonial ports in the number of her privateersmen.2 More than sixty vessels were commissioned. Some which had seen similar service ten years before were again fitted out for expeditions against the French. Commodore Abraham Whipple was said to have captured twenty-three prizes in one year's cruise. Shef field teUs us 3 that a prize when captured was brought in and condemned, and then commis^jwed under English colors to serve against her old masters. The French retaliated by lying in wait for the slave-traders who ran from Newport with cargoes of rum to the African coast, and thence to the West Indies with negro slaves. In this connection a quota tion giving the experience of Governor Joseph Wanton may be found interesting :^' I, Joseph Wanton, being one of the 1 In Col Rec. ofR. I., VI. 166. ^ Sheffield, Privateersmen of Newport, pp. S2-5Sj gives a list. * Sheffield, pp. 27-29. xxxviii Introduction people called Quakers, and conscientiously scrupulous about taking an oath upon solemn affirmation, say that on the ist day of the month commonly caUed April, a. d. 1758, I sailed from Newport in the Snow, King of Prussia, with a cargo of 124 hogsheads of rum, twenty barrels of rum, and other cargo ; that on the twentieth day of the month called May, I made Cape Mount on the west coast of Africa ; that I ran down the coast and traded until I arrived at Annamibo, where, while at anchor, on the twenty-third day of the month called July, when I had on board fifty-four slaves, twenty ounces of gold-dust, and sixty-five hogsheads of rum, I was taken by a French privateer of sixty guns, fitted out of Bor deaux, called LeCompte of St. Florentine, having on board between 500 and 600 men, whijp my vessel had but three small pieces and eleven men. ' The injury to the commerce of Newport during this period of plunder and reprisal was very great, and it was during these years that the sister city at the head of Narragansett Bay began her poUtical and com mercial rivalry. Under the leadership of such men as Stephen Hopkins and James Brown, the,^ father of the " Four Brothers " of Revolutionary times,* Providence had become prosperous, and was so early as 1743 keenly alive tp the disadvantages of its political subordination to Newport. The election of a governor from Warwick, William Greene, in that year, was practically the first departure 2 since 1657 from the tradi tional selection of a resident of Newport for that position. The Greene family was, however, identified with Newport interests, both by business connections and by intermarriage with the Wards, prominent merchants of the colonial me tropolis. Richard Ward was successively secretary, deputy- governor, and governor of Rhode Island, and his second son, Samuel, became noted as a skilful leader of partisan politics, 1 Nicholas, Joseph, John, and Moses Brown. 2 Joseph Jencks was the one exception, and it will be remembered that he was obliged to remove himself and family to Newport. Introduction xxxix and the rival of Stephen Hopkins in the unfortunate feud which was so long the chief political interest. This episode interests us, notwithstanding the belittling nature of its personalities and its tendency to obscure all the larger public issues, because it shows us on a small scale the antagonism in opinion and interests of the prosperous and conservative elements of a community when arrayed against those of the poorer and comparatively ignorant. The agri culturist of the northern counties was, for instance, ever loud in his cry for paper money, while the Newport mer chants fought the mania as a species of financial suicide, even going to the length of petitioning for the royal prohibi tion.* With the merchai^ of Newport were arrayed the planters of South County. This was the party of possession, and its political machine, if primitive, was well adapted to achieve satisfactory results. Not until the election of 1755 was its ascendency effectively disputed. In that year Stephen Hopkins was elected governor after a severe strug gle and by a narrow majority, — the first successful candi date whq^was not backed by the mercantile oligarchy of Newport. It would be a profitless task to detail the progress of this struggle between the Ward and Hopkins factions during the next thirteen years. Those documents illustrat ing the episode which occur in this series will be found pro vided with sufficient annotation to explain their bearing on the situation in general. Stephen Hopkins continued his useful public career long after the conclusion of the compromise of 1768. He repre sented Providence in the General Assembly from 1 770 to 1775, and at the same time occupied his old position as chief justice of the Superior Court. AU his energy and ability was thrown into the cause of the colonies during these years of trial, and his influence extended far outside tbe borders of Rhode Island. His ready and forceful pen 1 See Col Rec. ofR. I., V. 311. xl Introduction contributed several noteworthy pamphlets to the literature of the Revolution, and his decisions as chief justice in the Gaspee cases are matters of common knowledge.* Under his influence slavery was forbidden in Rhode Island.^ It is probably safe to say that no pubUc improvement, whether inteUectual, political, or purely utilitarian, took place within the forty years between 1744 and 1784 which was not largely helped by the cordial and intelligent cooperation of Stephen Hopkins, and, in the majority of instances, due to his vigorous personal initiative. In conclusion the editor takes pleasure in acknowledging the courtesy of the officials of the department of the Secre tary of State for Rhode Island, through whose kindness the archives were made accessible. A personal debt of thanks for kindly assistance and crit icism is owing Dr. G. P. Winship and Dr. William MacDon ald of Brown University, to Mr. William B. Weeden, and especially to Dr. J. Franklin Jameson of Chicago University. The thanks of the public, no less than of the editor, are due to the Colonial Dames of Rhode Island, whose patriotism and public spirit have made these volumes possible. GERTRUDE SELWYN KIMBALL. 1 For an account of Hopkins's life and services, see Mr. Foster's Life, in Historical Tracts No. jg, 2 vols. " Col Rec. OfR. I., VII. 251-253. 2 A LIST OF THE TERMS OF ADMINISTRATION OF THE GOVERNORS REPRESENTED IN THIS COLLECTION 1698, March. Samuel Cranston to April 26, 1727, d. 1727, May. Joseph Jencks It May, 1732. 1732, May. William Wanton ll December, 1733, d. 1734, May. John Wanton K July s. 1740, d. 1740, July 15. Richard Ward (( May, 1743. 1743, May. William Greene It May, 1745. 1745, May. Gideon Wanton ll May, 1746, 1746, May. William Greene ll May, 1747. 1747, May Gideon Wanton ll May, 1748. 1748, May. William Greene ll May, 1755. 1755, May. Stephen Hopkins u May, 1757. I7S7, May. William Greene ll February 22, 1758, d. 1758, March 14 Stephen Hopkins ll May, 1762. 1762, May. Samuel Ward ll May, 1763. 1763, May. Stephen Hopkins ll May, 1765. 1765, May. Samuel Ward It May, 1767. 1767, May. Stephen Hopkins It May, 1768. 1768, May. Josias Lyndon It May, 1769. 1769, May. Joseph Wanton « November, 1775, deposed. CONTENTS FAGB Governor Cranston to Richard Partridge, November 26, 1723 I The General Assembly on the proposed annexation of Rhode Island to New Hampshire. Richard Partridge to the Lords of Trade, February io, 172I 13 Transmitting Govemor Cranston's letter. Governor Jencks to George II 15 Petition for cannon. Richard Ward to the Massachusetts Assembly, May 27, 1731 . 18 Boundary commissioners. 'j/RiCHARD Partridge to Governor Jencks, August 23, 1731 . . ig The Sugar Bill — His account. '.='^ Royall protection will with the blessing of God make us a happy and flourishing people, and enable us to be more and more capable to be serviceable to his Maj'^'' Crown and dignity with our Lives and fortunes, with this view wee shall as dutifull and Loyall Subjects sub- mitt ourselves and our just cause now before him to his Princely determination, and doubt not but tho' [thro' T\ his great wisdom, justice and goodness to receive his Royall word in our favour, the which will putt a period to the differance now depending with out being put under a Kings Governor as their Lordships have been pleased to recommend and will oblige us the more fervently to pray for their Lord ships health and prosperity and to subscribe their Lordships most obeadient and obliged humble ser vants ; the Governor and Company of His Majestyes English Colony of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations in New England.^ Sam^.^ Cranston Governf Newport on Rode Island November 26'? 1723. To Richard Partridge Esqf Agent for the Colony of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations. In London. 1 For a statement of the adjustment of the Connecticut and Rhode Island boundary, see p. xxiii of the Introduction. Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 1 3 RICHARD PARTRIDGE TO THE LORDS OF TRADE.^ May it please the Lords Commiss''' In obedience to your directions to me some time since, to write over to the Govern? of Rhoad Island &c? to know if they were willing that their Colony sh? be annexed to the Kings Governmf of New Hampshire &c? I did write to them accordingly and now I have received their answer in a letter directed to myself^ wherein they signifie their un willingness to comply to the proposition which letter I send you inclosed and referr to the contents of it. I find they would by no means part with any of their Priviledges granted them by their Charter unless it be wrenched from them against their minds which is humbly hoped will not be done till they have forfeited it. As farr as I can learn it is not only impracticable to joyne Rhode Island, Connect and New Hamp shire together by reason of the distant Scituation of the Governments but it would be very Injurious to our Inhabitants for that many Substantiall familys would be liable to be turn'd off from their Estates and ruined, being our Opponf^ in the present Con troversy between us would (when joined us) be much the Superior in Number and votes and thereby carry what they please against us, and we are fully per- swaded would favour a Certain Company of Men of their own sort, who claim under pretence of an Old 1 Copied from the transcript in the John Carter Brown Library, S. P. O. Proprieties B. T., Vol. XI. R. 44. For an account of Partridge, see p. xvii of the Introduction. 2 See preceding document. 14 Correspondence of the Mortgage from the Indians (fraudulently obtained) great part of our Lands in Providence Plantations (which our People are the Right and true purchacers and possess'.^ off.) so not only the Right of Gov- ernmf but private propertie also is most imediatly and nearly concern 'd in the matter of Controversy as to the Bounds between Connecticut and Rhode Island as I am able at a proper Season more clearly to demonstrate ; and seeing therefore this Colony of ours has been as an Asylum or place of Refuge from the beginning of the settlement thereof to this day, to such especially who once lived under the yoke of the Massachusets Govern? and have formerly experi enced it as they dissented from them, to be very Grievous and too heavy to be borne. And now laterly the Lords of Trade themselves, cannot but be sencible from what has happend in that Government even at this time,^ how that many consciencious People are under sufferings there, who differ from their Provincial way of Worship sett up and established in that Province and shf we be blended together with Connecticut and New Hamp shire where the people are of like principles, the evil consequences would be greater than can be easily imagined. Wherefore upon the whole it is humbly hoped that Our Colony of Rhode Island and Providence Plan tations may remaine as they are under the happy Government of our present Gracious King George (whom God grant long to Reign over us) in the quiet 1 This refers to the action of the Massachusetts Assembly in extending and continu- mg the Act of the session of 1715-16, "for maintaining and propagating religion." Acts and Resolves, IL 244. r r s 5 5 Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 15 enjoyment of the Rights Priviledges and Possessions of their Forefathers granted by their Charter, as well as they have done in the preceeding Reigns and that a favourable representation shall be made in our be half when there may be occasion. And now our answer is come over, as is also that of Connecticut as I am informed I humbly pray you would appoint a day for reconsidering our affair of the Bounds agreeable to the last Order of the Lords of the Committee, and that we may have Council allowed to speak to some matters of moment relating thereto, which I have to lay before you and I have been furnished with since our last hearing. Richard Partridge Agent for Rhode Island, Provid : Plant. London 12?° called Feb? the lo'f, i72f. GOVERNOR JENCKS^ TO GEORGE IL To the King's most Excellent Majesty? We Your Majestys Dutifull and Loyal Subjects the Governour and Company of your Majesty's English Colony of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations in New England in America, With thankfuU Hearts, Acknowledge your Majesty's Royal Favour in con- 1 Joseph Jencks of Pawtucket, who succeeded Samuel Cranston as govemor of Rhode Island in 1727, and held the office until 1732. 2 This document is not dated, but probably may be assigned to the summer of 1729, as in the records for the June session of the Assembly for that year it is ordered that the governor draw a petition " that His Majesty would be pleased to bestow upon the colony a suitable number of guns for the fort." Col. Rec. of R. I. IV. 428. Bartlett prints this letter at p. 393 of this volume, immediately following the August session of 1727, but gives no reason for doing so. He copies a document in the John Carter Brown MSS. II. No. 95. 1 6 Correspondence of the tinning unto us the quiet Enjoyment of our Ancient Charter Priviledges, great in their Nature, but far greater by being Suited to the Circumstances of this your Majesty's Colony; or rather in that we your Majesty's Subjects have had our Birth Growth and Improvements under the same. In the Enjoyment of these our Priviledges We con ceived it but a just Acknowledgement of our Duty and a due Tribute to our Gracious Soveraign to ex pend some Part of our small Acquisitions of Fortune in these Remote Parts of your Majesty's Dominions in Fortifying the Frontier Parts thereof and puting the same in such a State and Condition as not to fear any Attack from the Enemies of your Majesties peace. This we were moved to Undertake and Carry on not purely for our own safety and preservation, but rather by the principles of Gratitude raised by the Priviledges we Enjoy and above all by a fixed and steady Resolution of doing every thing that Provi dence had put in our Power to do for the Maintain ing and preserving that Part of ¦ the Territories and Dominions of our most good and Beneficent Sov eraign committed to our Care. What we your Majesty's Subjects Apprehended to be most for the Safety and preservation of your Maj estys Colony and Dominions Adjacent was the For tifying Newport the Chief Town in said Colony, and the most Frontier upon all the Coast of New Eng land: Where we your Majesty's Subjects have Built a Regular and Beautifull Fortification of Stone with a Battery Subjoined wherein may be conveniently mounted Sixty Cannon. THE GOVERNOR JOSF.PH JENKS HOUSE, PAWTUCKET From a Painting. Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 1 7 And we being well Assured of your Majesty's good Disposition towards all your Subjects, are, therefore, emboldened to Entreat Your Majesty graciously to Consider these Parts of your Majesty's Dominions, by us inhabited, detached from the rest, And thereby Labouring under many Difficulties, And that our afores"? Work may be rendered Usefull to your Maj esty (and thereby have its' designed Effect) bestow upon said Fortifications for the Use of your Majesty therein, A Number of Cannon ; As may be Consist ent with your Majesty's Royal Pleasure. May this Instance of our Duty and Loyalty find Acceptance, And may we take leave to Assure Your Majesty that the Prospect of Happiness displayed by the hand of providence in your Majesty's Glorious Reign is matter of Unutterable Joys, And that there is nothing on Earth that we pray for with more Con stancy and Sincerity than that your Majesty, who has been the Means (by the Favour of God) of preserving and Distributing the Blessings of peace to all your Subjects (Notwithstanding the mighty Efforts of your Enemies to disturb the same) May after a long Con tinuance in the full Fruition of all Earthly Blessings be Translated into Heaven and be a happy Sharer of the inestimable Blessings of the prince of Peace, the sure reward of Virtue : and That the Happiness of Great Brittain may be made lasting and Continue to future Generations, By the Succession of Your Majestys Royal Heirs til' time shall Cease. Sign'd in the Name and behalf of the General Assembly of said Colony and by J. Jenks Gov' 1 8 Correspondence of the RICHARD WARD^ TO THE MASSACHUSETTS ASSEMBLY. Newp? May 27*? 1731 Gentlm The Assembly of this Colony, were much surprised at the averseness your Commissioners showed to set- ling the Boundarys between this Governmf,, and that Part of your Province late Plymouth Colony ; from Pawtucket Falls North to the Massachusets South Line; and have ordered me^ to acquaint you with it. and to Press you once more to appoint commis sioners for the doing of the same ; this Government are ready, and willing to Joyn with you therein : but if you Decline it ; then to give us your Positive an swer thereto ; that wee may Proceed further in this Affair and lay the same before his Majestic for his Royal Determination thereof ; which wee think will be Easily obtained there ; his Majestys bounding of us on that part being so clearly and Conspicuously expressed in our Charter. However I could be glad it might be ended amongst ourselves as being un willing to trouble his Majestic therewith, or the Board of Trade who have ordered us to give them Ace* if any part of our Governm* is controverted and by whom Sign'd by order and in behalfe of the Gen' Assem- 1 Ward was prominent in Rhode Island from 1710 to his death, in 1763. For nine teen years he held the office of secretary or recorder, and also served as boundary commissioner and as attorney-general. In July, 1740, he was chosen governor by the Assembly on the death of Governor John Wanton, and held the position during the two following years. He was the father of Governor Samuel Ward and of Secretary Thomas Ward. Arnold, History of Rhode Island, II. 245. 2 See Col. Rec. of R. I., IV. 445, for the Act appointing the commission. Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 19 bly of his Majesties Colony of R^ Island &c by your humble Servant R Ward [Endorsed :] Copy of Letter to Massachusetts ab' the Line. RICHARD PARTRIDGE TO GOVERNOR JENCKS. London 6mo. the 23? 1731 Col", fencks I writt thee of the 29* 4 mo. last to which I referr. this now comes chiefly to accompany my ace'' in the late Affair relating to opposing the Sugar BilP which besides what the N. Eng? Agent paid amounts to ;^22i.i2.io. 2/3ds whereof I charge to the Colony of Rh? Island being ;^i47.i5.3. the remaf 1/3 to New- Jersies. I was indeed surprized at the Sollicit!^ Bill when it was brought in, it being as much again as I expected, but I dont know how to remedie it now; the Council Fees w'^'' Era: Wilks^ paid in this Busi ness was upw?^ of 100 guinys besides what I paid, none of which fees of his Council I would admitt to be brought into my ace'', so that I savd considerable that way. I sh^ be glad to know if the colony w'^ have me oppose it again next Sessions for I am in- 1 The Sugar Bill referred to was enacted in 1733 (6 George IL c. 13), after two years of discussion. A petition against it, from Rhode Island (1733), was refused by the House of Commons on the ground that the Act was a money-bill. {Pari. Hist., VIII. 1261.) It was intended to help the West India colonies, and imposed a duty of 6d. per gallon on molasses, 9d. per gallon on rum, 5s. per hundredweight on sugar imported from foreign colonies into the British plantations. It was imposed for three years, and extended by successive enactments. In 1764, the duties of the old Act were reduced one half, but other commodities were burdened. 2 Agent for the colony of Connecticut, aud later for Massachusetts. 20 Correspondence of the formd the Barbadians will certainly have an other push for it then. I am with due respects Thy faithful fr"* RiCH° Partridge I believe the Barbad' people would give or expend at lest ^2000 sterl? to obtain their end. To Ball of my last ace' due to me ;;^ 1 1 3 o To 2/3ds of the charg in opposing the Sugf Bill 145 15 3 due to R. P. . . 156 15 3 To Joseph Jencks Esqf Governf of Rhoad Island and Providence Plan tations RICHARD PARTRIDGE TO DEPUTY-GOVERNOR WANTON.^ London FebT4'? 173J. John Wanton"^ Lo. Friend I rec? the Letter from the council of Rhode Island, without Date, relating to a controversy arising in your Colony about the Act for Emitting Sixty Thousand Pounds in Bills of Credit. I have also another from Samuel Vernon and other Assist ants of the 12"" of September last and one Since from the Speaker and Secretary in Behalf of the Gen- 1 Copied from the Foster Papers, II. 147, in the Rhode Island Historical Society. 2 John Wanton was deputy-governor of Rhode Island in 1721 and from 1729 to 1734, when, upon the death of his brother, Governor William Wanton, he was elected to the vacant place, and served the colony as governor until his death, in 1 742. Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 2 1 eral Court of the Second of Novf upon the aforesaid Subject.^ I [am] very Sorry that any such Difference should have happened for if prosecuted here I doubt it will be a Means of laying ourselves open and be attended with ill Consequences from such who are no Friends to the Northern Colonies for preventing of which nothing shall be wanting on my part for the Good of the Government. When the 2 first Letters come I was gone a Jour ney to my Daughters in the Country and T. Sand ford^ dehvered the Representation N° i. which was lodged at the Board of Trade and the other Two at the Duke of Newcastles office of all which I have obtained Copies which comes herewith (the Names excepted) Those at the Dukes Office an Order of Referrence was made on them to the Board of Trade But I used my Endeavour that they might be stopped from being carried to the Office or prosecuted indeed any further. I acquainting Sandford I was in hopes the Difference might be made up and ended in the Country And that We might expect such Notice I hoped in a Little Time &c. at length came Govf Jenckes's Letter to him not to deliver his Petition (if it was not done already), But he says as it was delivered and a Referrence thereon to the Board of Trade he must proceed having given his Promise to 1 These documents are not in the archives. For a notice of the controversy referred to, see p. xxiv of the Introduction. 2 Thomas Sandford, a London merchant doing business for the colony, to whom the complaints from Rhode Island were sent. Arnold, History of Rhode Island, II. 105. 22 Correspondence of the the Gen"= who writ to him about it I told him the Speaker and Secretary of the Colony writ Me as from the General Court. That the Govf had writ him not only not to deliver the Petition if it was not already dd, but if it was delivered not to prosecute it which he denyed alledging he had no such Order not to prosecute if it was dd. I entreated him all I could to forbear at least till he had heard again from Rhode Island setting forth the 111 Tendency it might be of to the Colony and writ him a Letter Also a Copy whereof comes inclosed.^ And all I could get from him was he would keep it a little longer by him from carrying it to the Board of Trade But am afraid shall not be able to prevail with him to forbear long. If I cannot I shall do the best I can in opposing it and vindicate the Colony in the best Manner I am able. My Endeavour however having had some Effect in keeping it hitherto back will be of Service for the Lords of Trade are drawing up a Representa tion of the State of the Plantations to lay before the House of Commons which will be I believe presented in 3 or 4 Days at farthest and they will not have the Opportunity of Misrepresenting us to such a Degree as if the Governors Petition and the Referrence was actually before them, I wish the Gentlemen (many of whom are my Friends too) would duly [appreci ate] the evil Tendency and bad Consequences of this their Undertaking and were thoroughly Sensible of the valuable Privileges they enjoy above many Provinces in our Plantations. I am of opinion they would then not set so light by them which if 1 See the following document. Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 23 by these Means should be lost, I dare engage they would heartily repent of their Rashness when too late. I am gratefully to acknowledge the due Care the Colony has taken for my Supply. Having receivd the Two Hundred Pounds Sterling remitted Me by Bill of Exchange and the Forty Three Ounces of Gold all from George Goulding and Jos. Whipple' which I give the Colony Credit for and shall give a sure Account of The West India Gentlemen are not quiet yet, but as We expected have began again in the House of Commons who have already ordered a Bill to be brought in for the better securing and encouraging the Trade of the Sugar Colonies^ &c which was read a first Time and ordered to be read a second Time the 15"" Instant against which Time I shall Petition in Behalf of Rhode Island and oppose it what I can. There are three Petitions against the Bill read yes terday. The New York People having no Agent here at present have sent over this year to oppose such an Act from passing and committed the Care of it to certain Merchants here who have spoke to Me to assist in the present Case which I agreed to and assisted in drawing up their Case, one whereof I send inclosed. In the present Bill they have left out the Restriction of sending Horses and Lumber to the Foreign Plantations but we think in a Manner this is as bad as the old Bill for to what Purpose will it be to 1 See vote of the Assembly in Col. Rec. of R. I,, IV. 462. 2 See note to letter of 6 mo. (August) 23, 1731. 2 A Correspondence of the have Liberty to send away our Commodities if we cannot have Returns for them ? What Success we shall have I know not but I believe it will be a hard Struggle. We have lost our best Evidence this Time Cap" Fair Hall he being won over by the Berbadions to their Side by being appointed Secretary to that Island a confidential Post which is certainly owing to the Opportunity he had in appearing for us last year. I am with due Respects to the General Court Their Faithful Friend R. Partridge [Note appended. — "The Foregoing Letter is copied from the Original, in the Handwriting of M'. Partridge. I passed the Day at the House of Moses Brown Esq. in Providence, on Monday, September 12*, 1815. when he lent Me the said Letter, with the Copies mentioned in it, of Gov. Jenckes's Petition to the King, The Petition from Newport to the King, and M' Partridge's Letters to Thos. Sandford and John Wanton, all which had been left in the Grand Committee's Office kept by those who signed the Bills of PubUc Credit, from which office M' Brown rescued them."] RICHARD PARTRIDGE TO THOMAS SANDFORD. ^ London 12"°° 2? 1731 Tho' Sandford^ I must once more entreat Thee to forbear deliver ing the Petition of Governor Jenckes to the Lords of Trade though there be a Referrence upon it from the Secretary of States Office For it is like to prove of very ill Consequence to the Colony of Rhode Island if it should be, and I think thou mayst be very very well Justified in keeping it till thou writest to the Governor and hast rec* his further Directions 1 Copied from the Foster Papers, 11. 146, in the Rhode Island Historical Society. Sent to Deputy-Governor Wanton in Partridge's letter of February 4, 1731. ^ See note on p. 22. Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 25 therein, for his Writing thee to keep it if not yet deliverd because [of] these Words being in it (Vizf) " That of his Majestys Determining whether the Gov ernor of this Colony has a Negative Vote in the Gen eral Assembly or not " shews his Inadvertancy as to that Particular, and that he had rather it should be left out and indeed should that now come in Dispute here it might have a very ill Effect as it may happen in Respect to former Acts as well as what relates to a late Act pass'd there and put the Colony in Con fusion, which no doubt the Governor was sensible of made him change his Mind and inasmuch as thou hast the Petition still by thee I entreat thee to keep it till thou hast his Answer otherwise it will not only affect and prejudice the Colony in General but even those particular Persons themselves who joined with the Governor in it. thy Favour herein will be a great Service to the Colony and an Obligation on Thy Friend Rich" Partridge. RICHARD PARTRIDGE TO DEPUTY-GOVERNOR WANTON. London 3? mo. the 3. 1732. My ffr^.John Wanton In my last to thee of the 6 ult I gave thee some ace' relating to the passing the Sugar BilU in the House of Commons and that it was car* up to the Lords where we followd it and petitiond against it, where also after many appointm" and some Hearings we appeard with Council for the last time, which was I See note on p. 19. 26 Correspondence of the the 25'^ past. I think the Council had attended for the other several northern Colonies and were paid 5 pounds at least, who were Sergeant Darnel,^ Coun cil Strange ^ and Rider,' and myself for the Colonies I represent, the 2 first Council were heard at the Bar of the House of Lords some time since, and the last day Rider and myself only, and after that 3 of our witnesses only out of 10 or 12 were examind, and then we were ord* to withdraw, upon w* the Lords adjournd the further Consideration of the affair for 8 days and before the time came about put it off again for a month without so much as hearing one of the Council plead on the other side in favour of the Bill, so that there is an end of it for this year. I am in hopes the West India Gentlemen now have enough of it that they will scarce give us any further trouble an other Sessions. I will not say my appearing as Council was the occasion of our Suc cess, but this I beleive none will deny but the Lords gave as due attention to it as to any of the Council that went before and that after that day would hear no more of it, concluding that it was a Bill not fitt to pass, but I am told that it is intended next Sessions of Parliam' to lay a duty on Foreign Rum and Molas ses imported into our North" Colonies to prevent w'^''. Esq Oglethorpe* a member of the house of 1 Probably Sir John Darnall, a successful lawyer, who was made sergeant-at-law in 1714, and knighted in 1724. He died in 1735. 2 Sir John Strange (1696-1754), called to the bar in 1718, King's counsel in 1736, solicitor-general from 1 737-1 742, and master of the rolls and member of the privy council in 1750. Strange's Reports were published after his death by his son. Five editions were printed. ' Sir Dudley Ryder (1691-1756), made solicitor-general in 1733, attorney-general in 1737, and lord chief justice of the King's Bench in 1754. 4 James Oglethorpe, member for Haslemere, and founder of the colony of Georgia. Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 27 Commons (with whom I have lately had a pretty deal of discourse and who is our hearty Friend) thinks it most advisable for the Northern Colonies to do it first themselves, but this must be left to your consideration whether you will do it or try our Suc cess again in the opposition of Such a Bill if it Should be brought into the House ; Our opposition in the Course of the Affair this Sessions was attended with the more difficulty in that the Ministry w"" Sf R W ^ appeard on the divission in the House of Commons against us, and Cap' Hall who was a good Witness for us last Year deserted us and was drawn over to the side of the West India Gentlem" against us and indeed we were once very apprehensive and had heard the Lords intended to pass the Bill for 3 Years and that the West Indians had some assurances given them it sho?, but these difficulties great as they appeard we have at length surmounted and I think I may venture to say fairly beat them out of it. the Expense has been pretty large a great deale more than last year but is now born among Six Agents of us on our side so that my part will be less than last year. I must pay part of Council fees at the House of Comons, but I save all that at the Lords — for I employd none, yet hope our Colony will not think it amiss if I charge some thing of that article for myself. As for the affair of the Complaints ag^' Rh* Island, the L*^ of Trade have referrd the papers w** relate to them to the Attourney and Sollicif General for 1 Sir Robert Walpole, First Lord of the Treasury and leader of the House of Com mons. 28 Correspondence of the their opinion ^ and I have directed my SoUf to draw up a Case and attend them upon it and who must each have a suitable fee, there are some Queries of Govern' Jencks w'*" I have not yet got a Coppy of, but before any thing be done the attourny General is of opinion we ought to have them, and I dont think it will be speedily Issued, tho' it may be attended with Expenses and trouble, but my diligence shall not be wanting to serve the Colony to my utmost, hopeing after all nothing will come of it in prejudice of our Charter. I am with due respects to the Gentlemen of the Council and House of Representatives Thy faithfull friend Rich" Partridge As my trouble in attending and serving the Colony Interest is considerable I will referr mySelf to them whether they will judge me deserving of their advan cing [my] Salary or not, and thy good offices herein shall be gratefully acknowledged. R P. To John Wanton Esq Deputy Governf of Rhoad Island and Provi dence Plantations 1 See note to letter of July lo, 1732. Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 29 JOSEPH JENCKS 1 TO THE GOVERNOR, COUNCIL, AND HOUSE OF DEPUTIES. To the Ho7^^ the Goif. Council and house of Deputys Gen'.men I being Now just upon removing to my own habi tation, and not Expecting ever to meet with any of you in this place again ^ do accf it my duty with the greatest regard to Take my Leve of you, and I can truely Say it is my hearty desire that not only your- Selves but also Such others as may Succeed you in the Same Station you are Now in. May concert Such mesures as may (with the blesing of him that rules and governs all things) prove an Expedient to pre serve and maintaine the Honour Interest and inEsti- mable privilidges this Colony now Injoys. And, Genfmen, I further desire that you will be pleased to appoint Some Sutable persons to Receive the Charter and Such other writings as are now in my keeping and do properly belong to the Colony. And also that your Honours will please now to order what you See cause to allow me for my Last years Service.' All which will greatly oblige him who is Gen'men y' Hon" very hum'''° Serv' J Jencks Newp'' may 4'? 1732 1 After five years of service as govemor, Joseph Jencks incurred the displeasure of the Assembly by his veto of a paper money bill, and lost the next election. 2 Jencks was required to reside in Newport while governor of the colony. ' The Assembly voted him £300. See Col. Rec. of R. I., IV. 470. 30 Correspondence of the RICHARD PARTRIDGE TO GOVERNOR WILLIAM WANTON.^ Lond" 5'? mo. or July 10. 1732 Col". Wanton Thine and the Speakers lett^ dated the 17. May together with the Inclosures I have reed, w""" with what we had before will furnish us with answers to the Complaints ^ that are made against the Colony as much as is necessary, that affair lyes yet with the Attourny and Sollf General for their Opinion, and there I am apt to think it is like to lay for some time, tho' the Board of Trade recomended Expedition to them, and before ever they make any Report I ex pect we shall have due notice to attend (I mean the Attourny and SoHcitor General,) thou mayst depend that I, with my Soliciter will do our utmost in vin dicating the Colony and asserting their Rights and Privileges and hope we shall be able to maintain them, tho' it will be attended with considerable Ex- pence, the Lords of Trade I doubt not are glad of any opportunity to lay hold off an advantage against the Charter Government that if possible they may be resumd to the Crown, for I dont take them to be Friends to our Northern Colonies at all. Inclosed I now send thee Copys of the Complain ants' Address to the King and their Representations 1 For an account of the Wanton family, see p. xxv of the Introduction. 2 A Memorial against the issue of bills of credit, in 1731, was forwarded to the Lords of Trade, and petitions were sent from Governor Jencks and from the inhabit ants of Rhode Island to the King. The matter was referred to Attorney-General Yorke and Sohcitor-General Talbot, who gave (as is well known) the opinion that neither the governor of Rhode Island nor the King had power to annul or repeal an act of the General Assembly Col. Rec. ofR. I., IV. 457-461, and Arnold's History of the State of Rhode Island, II. 108. Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 31 to the Board of Trade, w** as I remember are the very individual I had from the Offices here and of w"* I sent Copys before to the Deputy Gov! except only the names were then not added ; ^ w'"" I omitted hoping the matter might have been accomodated among yo''Selves I am glad the late Gov' Jencks has ord* all prosecution in his name to cease I hope it will weaken their Cause and I shall not faile to make the proper use of it. T : Sanford has got the s* Jencks letter and I doubt not but he will duely observe it. Inclosed is my ace' with the Colony the Ballance where of being ;^i i i 10. in their favour, so that there will be a further necessity of making me remittance w"'*' I doubt not off : and in the mean time no mony shall be wanting necessary in our Cause — : I could not charge New Jersie with their proportion of Ex- pence this year against the Sugar Bill having never yet their perticular orders about that Affair neither have they yet paid me what I was out of Pocket for their Part last year, the Ball" of their last ace* being upw*.^ of Two hun? pounds Sterl due to me so I hope yo' Colony will not think much of my not bringing in the Jersies this Year as last : I believe it cost N. York People this Sessions in the very same Affair upwards of ;i^200 StT and New Engl* near I am with due respects to thy Self and the Gentle men of the Council and House of Representatives Their Faithfull friend Rich" Partridge 1 See letter of February 4, 173J. 32' Correspondence of the THE COMMISSIONERS OF CUSTOMS TO GOVERNOR WANTON. The Bearer hereof John Peagrum ^ Esq. being De puted by Us pursuant to a Warrant from the Lords Commiss" of the Treasury to be Surveyor General of the Northern part of the Continent of America in the room of Devereux Bacon deceased. And he having received Instructions from Us for the more effectual putting in Execution the Laws relating to Trade and Navigation, We desire you will please to be assisting with your Authority to the s? Peagrum and the other Officers of the Customs under his In spection as they shall have occasion to apply to you, and also that you will strictly command all Officers and Ministers imployed under you to be assisting to them in putting in Execution the Laws against ille gal Trade that the Service under our Managem' may be effectually carryed on. We are S' Your most humble Serv'.^ Rob'^ Baylis J Stanley Charles Peers J. Evelyn Custom H° London 12 Aug" 1732. To His Excellency the Governour and Com mander in chief of His Majesty' Colony of Rhoad Island 1 Pegram held the office of Surveyor-General of Customs until the latter part of 1747-. Several letters addressed by him to the governor and collector of Rhode Island respecting the cargo of a French ship driven into Newport by bad weather are printed in the Mass. Hist. Soc. Coll., 6 ser. IX. 210. Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 33 GOVERNOR WANTON TO THE SPEAKER AND GENTLEMEN OF THE LOWER HOUSE. Its my oppinion that there be a Committy of both Houses consisting of two members each w"* myself to inspect into and project something that may be for the relief of the Government as to these debts \ which it is now unhappy under, also to put a stop that no further incouragement be given to the New London Society ^ as to therre Bills passing with us. also its my Oppinion that You finish all affairs that now comes before you and not to refer to May and June, those times being in the height of business in the Country and not possible then to dispatch any affairs, the business now before You is of Moment and must be dispatched, let no trifling excuse pre vail w"" You and its my Oppinion that you adjurn till Munday. W¥ Wanton Gov' 27'!' Janu? i73f. 1 There seems to have been in circulation at the time over £120,000 of depreciated paper currency. See Col. Rec. of R. I., IV. 457-461, for documents relating to the issue of bills of credit. 2 The New London Society united for Trade and Commerce was incorporated in May, 1732, by the General Assembly of Connecticut (Col. Rec. of Conn., VII. 390), as a joint-stock company for trading purposes. The charter of incorporation was repealed by the Connecticut Assembly in a special session of February 15, 173?, on the ground of " their presuming to strike and emit a certain number of bills of credit on their own society, whereby many honest people are in danger of being defrauded, and the peace of this government subverted." Ibid., VII. 419. Over £9500 of these bills were called in and burned by order of the Assembly, and the issues to the amount of £15,000 were redeemed by the colony. Ibid., Vll. 453, 454. 34 Correspondence of the RICHARD PARTRIDGE TO GOVERNOR WANTON. Lond°. i2mo. or Feby the 28* I73f. Col". Wanton I writt thee my last per Capt. Scutt of the 23. ult via Boston, since which I have none of thy favours. this now comes to acquaint thee that thro the rest lessness of the West India Gentlemen (who have the ministry on their side), the House of Commons have lately come into Resolutions to impose a duty^ upon Foreign SugT molases and Rum that shall be Imported into our Plantations, agreeable to the Votes here inclosed, and it is generaly thought the Bill will pass ; but I intend if I can be admitted, vigorously to oppose it at the Bar of the House first : for I am of opinion if such a Law take place, (besides the present Injury it will do), it will be rather worse in the consequence of it than the Bill of prohibition last year, because of the levying a Subsidy upon a Free People without their Knowledg ag^' their con sent, who have the libertys and Immunitys granted them [of] Natural born Subjects, and when they have enough to do to raise Taxes for their own Support ; besides it may be drawn into a President for the future, for by the, same Rule that a Brit ish Parliam' imposes a duty on the Kings Subjects abroad, who have no Representatives in the State here, they may from 4/ advance to 20/ — to ^100, on different things, and so ad infinitem, which is an Infringm' on Liberty and Property and as I appre hend a violation of the Right of the Subject, how 1 See note on p. 19. Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 35 the Bill will succeed I cannot yet say, perhaps I may differ in my Sentiments from most other People here : but I shall not faile to advise thee further about it hereafter. As to the other affair^ relating to our Colony here it lyes yet dormant as it has done for some time. I am w"* due respects to thy self and the Gent° of the Council and Representatives Thy faithfull friend Rich"' Partridge To Col? William Wanton Govern' of Rhoad Island and Providence Plan tations RICHARD partridge TO GOVERNOR WANTON. I mo. the 3. I73§. Goif. Wanton It is realy a hardship upon me that I must loose part of my disburstm" when I appear in opposition to what (as I apprehend is) afoot here Injurious to the Plantations at any time. N. Jersie people owe me already ^^300. stT and I can get no money from them for a considerable time past: so that now I must drop their Name in my petition and not make use of it at all or else lye still and let the Parliam' do as they think best without my intermedling, w'*' yet I believe Rh? Island Colony w* not like neither, so that it is some difficulty upon me. If therefore they w* allow me one hund* pounds a ye' Sterl. for Seven Years I will be content with it 1 See note on p. 30. 36 Correspondence of the for my Salary and also pay all disburstm'.^ Solicit" and Council Fees for Rh? Island Colony for that time out of it, which I pray thou wouldst propose if thou judgst it proper. RicH° Partridge GOVERNOR BELCHER 1 TO GOVERNOR WANTON. Sir, I received the Favour of Yours inclosing the Act^ of your Assembly respecting the Gore,* which I com municated to this Assembly in their late Session, And with this the Secretary covers the Act past here, agreeable to yours, and I shall be glad this Matter may be amicably Compromis'd. Inclosed Your Honour has two Letters just as I received them from my Brother Partridge. I wish you your Health, and am Hono''?^ Sir, Your most humble Servant J Belcher Boston April 30 : 1733. Gov^ Wanton 1 Governor Jonathan Belcher of Massachusetts and New Hampshire from 1730 to 1741, and later govemor of New Jersey. He was a tenacious upholder of the royal prerogative in the much-vexed questions of supplies, govemor's salary, and the emis sions of bills of credit. A sketch of his life is given in the preface to the Belcher Papers, Mass. Hist. Soc. Coll., 6 ser. VI. 2 The Act referred to authorized commissioners to determine the boundary between Massachusetts and Rhode Island. Col. Rec. ofR. I., IV. 482. 8 The term " gore " signifies a small strip or tract of land lying between larger divisions. Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 37 GOVERNOR WANTON TO THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY. Gentlemen of the Council and House of Deputies I am now to acquaint you that the Sudden occa sion of my calling this Assembly sooner then the next Adjournement, is on the Account of the Death of Abraham Borden Esqf late General Treasurer, And his Decease calling for the speedey Nomination and appointment of A Suitable Person to Succeed him and take Care of the General Treasury, which can't be left without with Safety, Renders me under an Obligation to call this unexpected Convention. And Since we are now met I think it highly necessary to Represent to you that Fort George^ Should be supplied with a Suitable number of Can non as well for the Defence and Safeguard of this Col ony as the Security of Navigation, w'*" will be of great Credit and Advantage to both. The Consideration whereof I heartily Recommend to this Assembly, and hope they'l thinke it proper to pass an Act, in Order to make a Suitable provision for the Same It has been the Custom for the Free Men of each Town of this Colony to choose Deputies to Repre sent them in the General Assembly twice a Year and the Choice in all the Towns at Different Times, w'!' gives great Room for 111 Designing Persons to Create Divisions and Make parties amongst the Inhabitants by goeing from Town to Town to be present at each meeting in Order by their Subtill contrivances to get 1 On Goat Island, at the mouth of Newport harbor. In the session of July, 1733, the Assembly voted an appropriation of £4000 to procure " cannon, carriages and other necessaries, for Fort George." Col. Rec. of R. I., IV. 487. 38 Correspondence of the in Such Persons as will suit their Turn's, Wherefore tis my opinion and I Recommend the Same to this Present Assembly for preventing the like for the Future that they will seriously consider this Matter, and pass an Act ^ that the Deputies shall be Chosen but once a Yeare hereafter and In each Town of this Colony on one and the Same Day, in Such convenient Time before the General Election as they Shall thinke most Suitable by which mean's an As sembly will always be kept in in being and Ready to be called on any Emergent Occasion without making a New Choice and is no wise contrary to the Terms of the Charter These things and what others may be laid be fore you I make no Scruple of your best En deavours for the publick Good. And you may Depend on a Readiness in me to joyn with you for that purpose being always ready and Willing to Shew how much I am the Governments and Your Faithfull Freind, W^ Wanton [April or May, 1733.] WILLIAM JENCKS ^ TO DEPUTY-GOVERNOR WANTON. Providence July 2".* 1733 Honourable S" : Since I Saw you at Newport I Spake with Cap' Jn° Foster of Attleburough one of the Men appointed 1 Such an Act was passed by the Assembly held the second Monday in June ij-iri Col. Rec. ofR. I., IV. 484. 2 One of the committee appointed by the General Assembly to attend the commis sion at New London " to settle the boundary line of the gore of land adjoining tp Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 39 by the Province to go to New London and he In forms me that they have appointed nine Gentlemen to Go to New London to oppen their Cause. S' I Judge it Necessary to ad Two or three more to our Committy Least They Should Drown us with a Great Noise and I Should be very Glad if Mf Walton and CoU. Abbot Might be added and Such others as the Court may Think Proper. ST I have appointed Coll: Abbot to Run a Line from Sowamset as far North as Pawtucket falls and to Draw a Map of the Same and for that Reason and Sundry others I think it NeedfuU for them to be there This Being what offers as Needfull from your Humble Servant William Jencks To Coll. Jn9 Wanton Esq Lieuten' Governour, In Newport THE COMMISSIONERS OF CUSTOMS TO JOHN PEAGRUM. M"" Peagrum Haveing, since our Secref?^ Letter of the 4 July last transmitting you an Act ^ passed the last Session of Parliament for the better securing and Encouraging the Trade of his Majestys Sugar Colonys in America, receiv'd directions from the Right Hon^!° the Lords Commiss'.* of his Majesf? Treasury, for appointing Officers (if there be Occasion) at the Several Ports in Attleborough with the Commissioners appointed by Massachusetts." Col. Rec. of R. I., IV. 484. 1 The Act of 1733. See note on p. 19. 40 Correspondence of the the Plantations to Manage, levy. Collect and account for the Dutys Which by the said Act are Laid upon all Rum Mellosses or Sugars of Forreign plantations when Imported into any British Colony or Planta tion. We direct you if you find there is an Imediate occasion for appointing any Officers at any of the Ports under your Survey for carrying on the Service for the Present, to appoint such propper Persons as are absolutely necessary for that Purpose, and repre sent to us what additional Number of Officers at Each place will be really wanted to perform the duty for the Future and at what allowances, takeing care to Use all possible good Husbandry. And if you Appoint any Officers you are to take care they be under Oath and Security and acquaint us with their Names, Qualifications, and the Stations you have assign'd them, and what Salarys you think it will be propper to allow them for our further consideration We are Your Loveing Friends Charles Peers H Hale Robert Baylis John Hill Custom H? London i Sept. 1733. CHARLES CARKESSE TO JOHN PEAGRUM. Sir The Commiss? having in their Letter of the ist of last Month acquainted you that they had recieved Directions from the Lords of the Treasury for ap- Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 41 pointing Officers (if there be occasion) at the Several Ports in the Plantations to manage and Collect the Duties laid by an Act of the last Session upon Sugar ^ &c. And directed you in pursuance thereof to appoint such Officers as you found absolutely necessary for that purpose at the several Ports under your Survey. And Mf Robert Robinson who for merly acted as Collector of Salem and Marblehead in New England having sustain'd several vexatious Suits and Suffer'd very much by some Seizures made by him in the Execution of his duty : I am directed by the Commiss'.^ to recommend him to you to be appointed one of the additional Officers at some of the Ports under your Survey if you find there is a necessity for appointing any. And you are to take care in that case that M' Robinson be appointed to such a Station as shall be Suitable to his qualifications and abilities which I have in Command to signify to you and am Sir Your most humble Serv' Cha: Carkesse Secry. Custom H? London 4'? October 1733. To John Peagrum EsqT Surveyf General of the Northern part of the Continent of America. GOVERNOR WANTON TO JOSIAH WILLARD. I Receiv? your's per Express, by Order of the Gen eral Assembly of the Province Respecting a Late Emission of Bills of Creditt in this Government. 1 The Sugar Act of 1733. See note on p. 19. 42 Correspondence of the The Genl Assembly of this Colony did at their Sessions held last July, pass an Act for the Emit- ting One hundred thousand pounds upon Loan, at 5 per Q\ per Annum, on Land Security of Double the Value for a Medium of Trade (as former Banks have been Emitted) and the Interest thereoff to be appropriated towards Discharging the Annual Debts ofthe Gov')'' I have Ordered the Sectr to make out a Copy of the Act for your further Satisfaction, And I do assure the Gen'. Assembly of the Province we had an Especiale Regard for the good and Welfare of the Publick In said Emission. And I hope that the Gen! Court of the Province will take Due Care that Trade and Business may not be Injured by a private Emission, now coming out without their Sanction, as I am Informed. I am with great Respect to the Gen! Court. ST Your very huml* ServT W¥ Wanton Newport 26*' Octob. 1733 To Josiah Willard Esq. SectT of the Province Boston. JOHN PEAGRUM TO GOVERNOR WANTON. Sir I have the faviour of Yo' Hon" letter of the 4'^ Instant That MT Robinson had Presented a Depu tation from me to Act at Yo' Port as Searcher and I Digest of jy44, p. 172. Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 43 landwaiter w'*" Office I apprehend Necessary at YT Port tho'. I am So unhappy to Differ in Opinion w'!' Yo' Hon' and Council but as the Comm'^ has thot fit to leave it to my Judgm' in My Instruction to appoint Such Officers as I Shall from time to time think Necessary acquainting them of the Same (w".^ I have done allready.) must Beg leave to insist that Mt Robinson be Sworn according. Tho' I am Very Sory any thing I Should do Should Not Meet w"" Yo' Hon'^ Approbation but as I think it my Duty and for the Service of His Maj'^'^ Revenue I have Appointed one at this Port at Salem and New Lon don at New York there was one before, and if I think it Necessary Shall Appoint more or I Should Not Act Agreeable to my Instructions. I have here Inclosed you an Article of Instruction and likewise an Article of Instruction from his Maj'^ to the Several Govern'^ where I have the Hon' of Being Surveyor Gen" where his Maj'^ has forbid any Governour to interfere w"* the Powers and Authority given by the Comm'° of the Custom to the Surveyor Gen!'^- Mt Robinson BroT me a letter likewise where the Comm'^ recommended him to be Employ'd In Some Part of my District a Copy of which he has and will Show Yo' Hon' if you fncline to See it. I Shall be Very Sory if the revenue Should Suffer for want of his Being Sworn but if you will Not Suffer Officers to do their duty it Do's Not lye at my Door and forgive me in representing of it to the Comm'^ and 44 Correspondence of the the Lords of the Treasury. Please to favour w'!" Yo' Answer and Yo" Oblege Yo' Hon'= Most Obed' Humble Sv* Jn Peagrum Boston 7 Jan' I73f. To the Hon"' Wm Wanton Esq' INSTRUCTIONS TO JOHN PEAGRUM.^ His Majesty having by an Article in the Instruc tions given to the Governours in the Plantations Explain'd the Power they have in relation to the Officers of the Customs Enclosed, we send you Copy thereof for your Government in Giving the Officers under your Inspections such Advice and Assistance as the service shall require — and if you Observe any of the Governours in the Plantations neglect Com plying with His Majestys Pleasure signified therein you are to Represent the Case specially to us and lay before us Affidavit of the facts for our further directions. And Whereas the Surveyors General of Our Cus toms in Our Plantations are Impowered in Case of the Vacancy of any of our Officers of the Customs by Death removal or otherwise to Appoint other Persons to Execute such Offices untill they Receive further directions from Our Comm"' of our Treasury or our high Treasurer or Comm°.^ of our Customs for 1 Enclosed iu Peagrum's letter to Governor Wanton, of January 7. Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 45 the time being, but in regard the Districts of the said Surveyors Gen" are very Extensive and that they are required at proper times to visit the Officers in the several Goverm'.' under their Inspection and that it might happen that some of the Officers of our Cus toms in Our Province of may Die in the time that Surveyor General is Absent in some Distant part of his District so that he Cannot receive Advice of such officers Death within a reasonable time and thereby make Provision for Caryin on the Service by Appointing some other Person in the room of the Officer who may happen to Die, therefore that there may be no Delay Given on that Occasion to the Mas ters of Ships or Merchants in there Dispatches, It is our further will and Pleasure in Case of such absence of the Surveyor General, or if he should happen to Die and in such Cases that you upon the Death of any Collector of our Customs within that our Province Shall make Choice of a Person of known Loyalty, Experience, Diligence and Fidelity, to be Employ'd in Such Collectors Room for the purposes aforesaid untill the Surveyor General of Our Customs shall be advised thereof and Appoint another to succeed in their Places or that further Directions shall be given therein by our Comm°^ of our treasury or our high Treasurer or by the Comm"!^ of our Customs for the time being which shall be signified taking Care that you do not under pretence of this Instruction Inter fere with the Powers and authorities Given by the CommT' of our Customs to the said Surveyors Gen eral when they are able to put the same in Execution. 46 Correspondence of the JOHN PEAGRUM TO GOVERNOR WANTON. Sr. I have to Ask Pardon for a Mestake my Clerk made in a letter Should have been Sent you the 7'!" Instantt. I can' tell what Paper he inclosed the Articles In w'I'out it was Some looss Draughts for I found the letter I Design [ed] amongest the Papers in my Office, w''^ I have here Sent you Yesterday arrived Cap' Wingfield from London and I reed a letter from the Secretary to the Cus toms that the Lords of the Treasury had appointed me to Put in what Necessary Officers I Should think Proper (in my District) and the Bearer w'^.'' came w"* Cap' Wingfield was recomend'' to be Employ'd. I understand by MT Kay'' MT Robinson has not Got Security and he can' be Employ[d] without. I Shall take it a faviour you" return w' Cover'd the Articles and your Answer whether you will Swear an Officer in or Not and yo" very Much Oblige Yo' most Humble Se' Jn Peagrum Boston, 21 Jan' 173! To the Hon"= W^ Wanton EsqT RICHARD PARTRIDGE TO GOVERNOR WILLIAM WANTON. LoND? 12 m? or feb. 4. 173f. Coi". Wanton My last to thee was of the 5 : 8''" last per Cap! Wingfield, w'='' hope thou hast reed since which I 1 Collector Nathaniel Kay, appointed by the Commissioners of Customs, at London. Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 47 have none from thee on the Colonys ace'. I sent thee per Cap! Draper 20 Medit" passes w'='' I obtaind of the Lords of the Admiralty the charge thereof for the Instructions &c cost me £2. 8. 3. I have at length obtaind from the Plantation Office (w* comes herewith) a Copy of the Lords of Trades Report to the King respecting the Com plaints against the Colony in 1 732^ which I take to be exactly conformable to the opinion of the Attourney and SolicitT General which I sent thee some time since ; and in as much as no provision was made in the Charter whereby the Crown might interfere in relation to the Laws so as they be not repugnant to the Laws of England, the matter of the s"' Complaints lyes dormant nothing being to be done therein by the King : and I am informd it is most prudent for me to let them remain so rather than to make any Stirr in it. a Motion has been lately made in the House of Lords for putting down the Iron Furnaces'^ in the Plantations the matter whereof was referrd to a Committee accordingly. I hope thy next will bring me some encouraging account of the Colonys doing something towards advancing my Salary. As for publick news I referr thee to the inclosed prints : we continue yet in a State of tranquility but 1 See note to letter of July lo, 1732. 2 A Representation of the Lords of Trade to the House of Commons on the manu factures of the colonies, of February 15, 173 J, states that the Governor of Rhode Island " informs us, That there are Iron Mines there, but not a 4th Part Iron enough to serve their own Use ; but he takes no Notice of any Sort of Manufacture set up there." Historical Register, XVIII. 47 (London, 1733). 48 Correspondence of the know not how long it will last. I am with kind re spects to thy self the Gent" of the Council and House of Representatives Thy faithfull friend RiCH° Partridge To William Wanton Esq GovernT of Rhode Island and Providence Plan tations. GOVERNOR BELCHER TO THE GOVERNOR OF RHODE ISLAND. Sir, I am sorry I have Occasion to give Your Honour any new Trouble upon the Matters in Difference between the People in your Governm! and ours (before you have answered our last Letter) and espe cially to complain to you of an Act of such Violence and Barbarity as exceeds every thing that has yet been done or even attempted by any of your People : The Actors of which I am perswaded, you will think, ought not to escape with Impunity. You will see by the inclosed Declaration, that one Jonathan Draper an Under Sheriff of the County of Suffolk within this Province, at his own House, which was never pretended to ly within the Governm! of Rhoad Island, was in the Night Time assaulted by three Ruffians of your Colony ; his House broken open, he beaten with Clubs in a most inhuman Manner to the Hazard of his Life, drag'd out of his House by the Hair of the Head, and carried off as a Prisoner, And all for Doing the Duty of his Office, and executing a law- Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 49 ful Warrant ; which he could not have refused with out great Unfaithfulness and Incurring considerable Loss and Damage. This being an Outrage not to be parallel'd in any regular Governm! and a Violation of the Laws of all humane Society, and committed within the Jurisdiction of this Governm! where the Matter ought to be judicially inquired into ; I do now desire and demand of Your Honour and the Governm! of Rhoad Island, That you deliver up to Justice the Authors of this Villany ; viz, Hezediah Comestock,-' Samuel Staples and Alexander Gowdy, that they may be proceeded against in the Courts of Law in the County of Suffolk where the Facts were committed. I desire you would send me an Answer as soon as may be. That I may the better judge what further Methods are to be taken in the Case. There are other Proofs of the Matters of Fact contained in this Declaration, but they cannot be presently had ; But, as soon as they come to Hand, I shall send you Copies, if there be any Need of them. I am Sir, Your Honours very humble Serv! J. Belcher Boston, March 5, 173I. 1 See note on p. 59. 50 Correspondence of the DEPOSITION OF JONATHAN DRAPER.^ To his Excellency Jonathan Belcher Esq''. Captain General and Governour in Cheif in and over His Majestys Province of the Massachusets bay and to the honcf'f His Majestys Council For the said Province. The Declaration of Jonathan Draper of Belling ham in the County of Suffolk and one of the Deputy Sheriffs within the said County : The said Draper saith. That on the third day of March instant being the Lords day in the Evening there came to the Dwellinghouse of the s? Draper one Hezediah Comestock of Smithfield in the Colony of Rhode Island husbandman who knocked at the door of s? house, when the said Draper asked who is there ; the said Comestock said a Friend, then Draper went to the Door and partly opened it to see who was there, and discovering the s? Comestock, he told him he should not come in, he said he came to do him the said Draper no hurt. For he was come to Sea what his demands was concerning Richard Old- ridge (who was committed to prison for not paying his rates) to see if they could make up matters ; the said Draper asked him where he came from, he an swered he came from Boston, to which the s? Draper replied, if he the said Comestock came from Boston, he might have Seen the mittimus by which the said Oldrich was Committed to Goal, which would have satisfied him what was due, and while the said Draper was shifting his Cloaths and putting on his Shoes, the s? Comestock took hold of the Deponent and 1 Enclosed in Belcher's letter of March 5, 1735. Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 5 1 told him he should go along with him, then Draper asked him to let him dress himself, but Comestock would not let him ; Then Draper bid his wife lock the door, and thereupon Comestock run to the door and cryed aloud for help, and then Draper bid his wife run out at the back Door and cry murder that so one Silvanus Scot who lives about thirty rod off might hear her, soon after came Samuel Staples, Alexander Gowdy both of Smithfield afores? hus bandmen with Clubbs in their hands to the said Drapers house, and Comestock bid them stave the door open, and the said Draper forbid them, but they Stove the door open and brake the lock of the door and came into the s? Drapers house, then they delivered Comestock a Clubb, and he knockt him down and Struck him with it Several blows on the head and Face and they hailed him out of doors. Staples dragging him by the hair of his head and told him he must go along with them, then Draper asked them to let him get his hat, but Stap[l]es forced him away without his hat and knockt him down three Several times, then they bid the said Draper get upon Comestocks horse or else the s? Samuel Staples told him he would knock his brains out, so that the s? Draper rid behind Comestock some considerable time, and as the said Draper rid along Comestock Swore by God Several times that if he the said Draper offered to get off the horse he would be the death of him, and that he would make a Sac rifice of him For the Devil, notwithstanding the s? Draper took his opportunity and jumpt off the horse, Stap[l]es and Gowdy being on foot behind where- 52 Correspondence of the upon Comestock said the damn'd Devil was gone, and the s? Draper run through the bushes, and got to the house of one Benjamin Thompson in Bellingham where he Found Benj? Thompson, Samuel Darling and Tho? Holbrook who were coming to the assist ance of the s? Draper and they with Richard Blood Ebenezer Perry and others kept Guard that night, and the next day viz' on Munday last he set out from thence with the said Blood for Boston in order to make known to Your Excellency and Honours the truth of the Facts, and to pray for redress in the premisses Jonathan Draper A true Copy Examined per J W^illard Secry. Richard Blood of Bellingham husbandman saith That on the last Lords Day Evening about Seven a Clock he hearing that Jon* Draper was apprehended and carried to the house of Benjamin Thompson, went to the s? Thompsons house and Found the s"* Draper very much bruised and his Face very bloody. And the Depon' Seing Silvanus Scot who is near Neigh bour to the s^ Draper asked him why he did not go out to help the s? Draper, Scot said the reason was because they threatened to knock him down, and the Depon' asked who threatened him he said then Sam! Staples and afterwards the s? Scot told another man he knew not the men that assaulted Draper ; altho' he afterwards in talk owned that Comestock came to his house and enquired of him the Sabbath Day Evening, whether Draper was at home ; so that the Depont has reason to think that Scot was privy to the s? Comestocks evil Design ; And further saith not. Richard Blood Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 53 Jon^ Draper and Richard Blood made oath to the Truth of their respective Depositions before written by them Subscribed in His Majestys SupT Court of Judicature at Boston March 5'^ 1733 being taken by the Direction of his Excellency the Governour and Council. Att? Benj^ Rolfe Cler A true Copy Exam* per J Willard Secry. JOHN PEAGRUM TO GOVERNOR WANTON. I had the favour of Yo" w''' I should have an- swer'd by the return of the Post : but had then tho" of waiting upon you MySelf and if you had. refused to Swear Mr Robinson I Should have done it. Affairs Since have Prevented my Coming, but MT Achmuty having Business w'*" call'd him to Rhode Island, I have desired him to be the Bearer of this. and to Satisfie your Hon' I Have nothing to do w"' Yo' Assemblys but only w"' the Commander In Cheif. and am Perswaded when you are Rightly Informd of the Matter you will Comply w'!' My request and Not Oblige me to Persue Methods w'='' May be of 111 Consequence to Yo' Colony I am S' w"' Great Respects Yo' Hon" Most Humble Se" Jn Peagrum Boston 22 March i73|. To the Hon"" W^ Wanton 54 Correspondence of the WILLIAM JENCKS ^ TO DEPUTY-GOVERNOR WANTON. Providence March the 23^ 173! Honourable Sir I understand that the Gov' of Boston has sent to desire our Government to send Hasadiah Comstock and others to Boston there to Answer for the villiny they Committed against one Draper, I am of opinion if, our Government should give a flat denyal to send them, and should seem there by to Countenance such actions, it Would appear very black against us in England, therefore if I may adventure to advise in the affair I am of opinion that it Would be advisa ble for us to send a Letter to Boston signifying our obhorance to such actions, and the care that has been taken for the due punishment there of by ordering our Justices to Examin the partys, and notefying Draper to be present with his Evidence to prove his charge but he Not appearing nothing could be done, and as to our sending them to boston in order to their tryal there, I think it would be Requeset to Inform them that there is a Controvercy betwixt the Governments Respecting the bounds, and that it would be very un Reasonable to send the men to Boston for their tryal if the fact was Committed with in our Jurysdiction, and therefore I would make them this offer that in case they will agree and settle the bounds with us betwixt the Governments, then if it doth appear that the fact complained of was Com mitted with in their Jurysdiction, we will send the 1 Jencks was deputy for Providence in 1727, and In 1728 served upon a committee appointed by the Assembly to assist, or instruct, the Joint Boundary Commission. Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 55 men and if the Jurysdiction prove to be ours then Draper may prosecute them here, where he shall be sure to have Justice and with all I would Inform them that we think there is the same Reason that they should send Cap' foster Samuel Tilver and others to us who are guilty of as bad facts and of the same Nature, if after the settlement of the bounds it doth appear that the s'* facts were Committed in our Colony as we think they were, these few hints being what offers at present from your assured friend and servant William Jencks To the Hon"° John Wanton Dep Gov' at Newport RICHARD PARTRIDGE TO GOVERNOR WANTON. London 2! mo: or Apr. 30: 1734 Gov". Wanton My last to thee was of the 412 mo. per Cap! Bon ner via Boston, since which the House of Lords dropt the affair relating to Iron Manufact'.^ ^ but afterwards came to some warm Resolutions respecting the Plan tations on the Continent, a Copy whereof I judged 1 On March 7, 173I, a committee was appointed by the House of Lords "to con sider of the Representation of the Commissioners for Trade and Plantations, re lating to the Laws made, Manufactures set up, and Trade carried on, in any of His Majesty's Colonies and Plantations in America, which may have affected the Trade, Navigation and Manufactures of this Kingdom." Gentleman's Magazine (1734), page 176. No further mention of such a committee is made in the reports of the sessions of 1734 and i?35, but in the Report of the Hist. MSS. Com., XIV. 10, 5, is catalogued under " Journals of the House of Lords " a Report on Manufactures and Trade in the Colonies, delivered on April 5, 1734, by a committee appointed to inves tigate the subject. 56 Correspondence of the it my duty to send thee which comes here inclosed. thou wilt see therein that the Judges are ordered to bring in a Bill pursuant to the s? Resolution, next Ses sion of Parliament, the great inconveniencys that will attend such a Law I think almost needless to point out, but this I would say that should it pass, in all probability a considerable sum of money must necessarily be expended annualy at the Council Office and Board of Trade to get the Acts through here, in fees for Petitions Reports, References, and Royal Orders, besides the tedious delays that may happen — : please to communicate this to the Gen eral Court who if they shall judge proper it should be opposed let me know with full Instructions there about and I will do my utmost endeavour to serve them. We continue here still in Peace ; but a considera ble Fleet of Men of War lye ready in the Downs to proceed when ever the Court shall think fitt to give orders, whether they will saile for the Baltick or the Mediteranian, or indeed any further than they are we know not yet. I believe great endeavours are used on our Part that the English keep from intermedling by taking part in the quarrels of the Contending Partys if pos sibly it can be with honour and safety, so that at present I dont see there is any such thing can be as forming a Judgement whether our Peace will be lasting or a Rupture break out : time only must man ifest it : for the rest I referr to the inclosed Prints and re- Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 57 main with my Respects to thySelf the Gentlemen of the Council and House of Representatives Their ffaithfuU friend RicH° Partridge Inclosed is also the Representation of the Lords of Trade to the House of Lords upon w* they ground their Resolutions. 3 mo. the 4th. since the foregoing our dayly Cour- ant has the following paragraph viz — (of this day) We are informed that the Squadron of Men of War under the Command of ST John Norris will sail for the Mediteranean in Ten days time and will con sist of 25 Ships of the line, besides fireships &c. '^^ Wanton Esq GovernT of Rhode Island and Providence Plan tations the general court of massachusetts to the gov ernor^ of rhode island. Province of the Massachusetts Bay. Hon"' Sir, It is very unpleasant that We have Occasion, so frequently to. Complain of the Insults, hardships and difficulties which the People in Yo' Government, and many times by direction of Your Authority, Offer to His Majesty's Good and Peaceable Subjects of this Province, living near the Line in the Towns of Attleborough, Wrentham, Bellingham and Mendon; 1 Governor John Wanton. See p. xvii of the Introduction. 58 Correspondence of the did this Land ^ really belong to you (as we are abun dantly persuaded it does not) Yet the method you have taken must be condemned by all impartial Men, nor would You Suffer any particular person in your Government who claimed an Estate that had been settled and possessed by another, time out of mind, to disturb and disquiet his Neighbour in such an Un heard of and vexatious manner. As Governm" expect Obedience and Subjection to their Laws and Orders, They certainly ought to sett Examples and Sacredly support, maintain, and adhere to the Grand Princi ples and Foundation of Governm! Should this Gov ernment have Invaded, made Inroads and Reprizals upon the People who had been Settled and possessed by you from the beginning of yoT Government, as you have done upon Us, What would there have been but a plain and open Warr, and how dishonourable as well as Offensive must this have been to Our most Gracious Soveraign. And what has been wanting to this Open State of War, but that this Governm! after high and repeated provocations have judg'd it unjust to do by your People what you have done to Ours without any provocation at all. For men to be 1 Hutchinson says in his History of Massachusetts-Bay, II. 400, that in his time the records of the boundary dispute between Rhode Island and Massachusetts had been destroyed, but that it was "certain that for divers years past the only part in contro versy between the two governments was a small gore of land between Attleborough in the Massachusetts and the old township of Providence." The boundary was set tled by a commission in 1740-41, and "To the surprize of Massachusetts, a line was determined which not only took from them the gore formerly in dispute, but the towns of Bristol, Tiverton and Little-Compton, and great part of Swanzey and Bar rington." Ibid., II. 401. A note states that this country was conquered by Massa chusetts and Plymouth from Philip, and to prevent dispute expressly granted to Plymouth by Charles II. The matter was adjusted, so far as regards the colonial period, by the royal decree of 1746. See p. xviii of the Introduction. Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 59 dragged to Goal and fined exorbitant Sums for Pay- ing or Gathering Taxes from People in a Town Con stituted and Ordered to belong to this Government by a Law of the Province, that has the Royal Sanc tion, —for Your People to come into this Province even beyond your Own pretence, and Insult, Lay violent Hands Upon, and almost Murder a Public Officer, and then retire into Your Colony and pass with Impunity is truly extraordinary. We must therefore Insist that You Surrender Hezekiah Cum- stock ^ Samuel Staples and Alexander Goudy all of Smithfield, who were Actors in that great abuse to Jonathan Draper an Under Sheriff, Or that You Assist by YoT Authority in Apprehending those Per sons that they may be brought to tryal for the great Crime they are charged with, which was Committed in this Province beyond yoT pretended Claim, If You shou'd refuse it. You thereby take such a Crime upon Yourselves, as no Government can with any Colour defend. And as unjustifyable seems to be the Suit now depending before yoT General Assembly. Josselyn is prosecuted for doing that, which had been an inexcusable Crime in him to have Omitted. The King by a Public Act Ratifyed now above Thirty years ago, had committed this People to this Govern ment, And the Government had committed them in this Affair of Taxes to the Constable, And is he a 1 In the Assembly of June, 1734, it was voted that "Hezekiah Culmstock" be delivered to the authority of Massachusetts Bay, to have a trial " upon the complaint of Jonathan Draper, pursuant to the request of the Great and General Court of said Province of the Massachusetts Bay, by their letter, dated the 13th day of this instant June." Col. Rec. ofR. I., IV. 498. 6o Correspondence of the Criminal, for Informing those who thus Commanded him, of the difficulties he met with in doing what they Ordered ? But We hope when YoT Assembly come to be fully apprized of the Circumstances of this Affair (Which We fear by some perhaps too much Engaged in the Controversy, have been very much concealed from them) They will see Justice done. If this Prosecution be just and reasonable, if the Constables are punishable for executing their Office now, they are likewise punishable for what they have done these Forty years and more. Was there ever an Instance of a man's being punish 'd for any possessory Act in what he had Quietly pos sessed above Seventy years.? Ought You not to have Waited 'till you had regularly dispossess'd Us .? before You had punish'd Our People for Acting upon this Land or for Complaining when they were Obstructed ? We do therefore hereby Demand and Insist that the Fines and Costs laid upon Sundry of Our Inhabitants by YoT Government, Should be re mitted or reimbursed, particularly Henry Josselyn's, John Robins's, John Sweetland's, Benjamin Slack's, Benjamin Crab tree's, and Timothy Tingley's, and that You would take Care that Henry Josselyn be relieved under, or delivered from this unjust Prose cution We are very lately Informed, that Jonathan Jenkes has made an Escape from His Majesty's Goal in the County of Bristol, And that Your Authority have been desired when met in Court at Providence, to return him to Justice, Which they then declined to do, tho' Jenkes was then present in Court. Should Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 6i Neighbouring Governments thus protect Criminals who fly from Justice, What Confusions must ensue, and what dishonour will be done His Majesty, Who is the Common Father of us all, and delights so much that Justice Should have free Course ; We must therefore Press You to give Order, that he be de livered to the proper Officer in this Province that he may be proceeded with according to the Laws of this His Majesty's Government, And We have the more reason to Expect this, because We have been always ready to treat Your Authority in this manner. And deliver up all Criminals that have fled from Jus tice in YoT Government. We desire Your Honour would Communicate this to YoT General Assembly and that We may have a speedy Answer, before the Rising of the General Court here, that We may determine according as the Answer shall be, in the present Session. In the Name and by Order of the Great and Gen eral Court or Assembly J Willard Secretary. Boston June 13"? 1734. RICHARD partridge TO GOVERNOR WANTON.^ Lond? 4*? mo. the 29 1734. Golf, Wanton I have received from the late GovT thy Brother a letter dated Aprill the 19'? last, with sundry papers and Instructions (per Cap! Borden) relating to the 1 See note on p. 62. 62 Correspondence of the Boundarys^ between yoT Colony and the Province of the Massachus'.' Bay, which Affair I shall pursue in the best manner I can for the Colonys Interest, having already retaind the Attourney General as Council for us, and shall give thee advice as I pro ceed, but as it will be attended with considerable charge I must desire to be furnished with a further Supply of money, especialy if I must oppose the Bill^ that is to be brought into the House of Lords next Sessions of Parliam! relating to the Laws &c of the Northern Colonys as I advised the late Govern' in my last per Cap! Cary via Boston. We have no Rupture yet with France or Spain which continues doubtfull still. I am with kind respects Thy assured Friend RichP Partridge I understand the Massach'.^ Agent has got some ace! of violence used or comitted by Rh'^ Island People on some of theirs. Now if you have any proofs of the like usage on their side please let me have them. To John Wanton Esq GovernT of Rhode Island and Providence Plan tations In Newport. 1 The petition of Rhode Island upon the Massachusetts boundary was dated April 19, 1734. It asserted that Massachusetts claimed about 20,000 acres east of Paw tucket River and the three-mile line east of Narragansett Bay, that were clearly within the limits of Rhode Island, as defined by the charter. The matter was turned over to the Board of Trade, and remained untouched for two years while the replies were in process of preparation. 2 See note on p. 55, Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 63 THE SECRETARY OF RHODE ISLAND TO RICHARD PARTRIDGE. Newport Rhode Island 6'." September 1734 Sr Your Letter of the 30'? of April past^ came safe to his Honour the Governour with the Report of the Committee of the House of Lords And I am ordered by the General Council to let You know that with great Concern they observed the Contents thereof, Con cluding that if it should be pass'd into an Act would certainly prove very hurtful! and disadvantageous to this Constitution by losing the greatest Priviledge We have for a long Time enjoyed : Besides the Charges and Expences this Government would inev itably be put to in sending home their Laws for the Royal Approbation. Wherefore by the Council you are desired to pursue such Methods as are most proper and take the best Advice in order to prevent so great an Inconveniency as will unavoidably attend Us by the passing of such a Bill. The Governor would have communicated your Letter and this Affair to the General Assembly that was to be held by Adjournment the last Month, Had it not accidentally fell through and was dis solved for want of some Members from the Main Land sufficient to constitute a Court. But designs to do it at their Setting the last Wednesday in next Month and afterwards You will have a more partic- ul^ Account. This Colony always paid a due Deference and Regard to any Orders and Instructions either from 1 Not in the archives. 64 Correspondence of the his Majesty or the Board of Trade And did imedi- ately upon the Receipt of an Order from that Board repeal an Act for laying a Duty upon Slaves im ported here, and have now no Act or Law for the encouraging any Manufacture whatsoever Saving the Whale and Codd Fishery: and have allowed a large Bounty to promote the raising of Hemp and Flax which was concluded might be of Service hereafter to Great Britain our Mother Country. "As to the 3'? Resolution of the Committee of " Lords respecting the Governours of Rhode Island "and Connecticut taking the usual Oaths of Alle- " glance and Fidelity taken by other Governours and " entring into such Securities to his Majesty for the " due Observance of the Laws of Trade and Navi- " gation and to the like Value as other Governours "of his Majesty's Plantations in the presence of "such of his Majesty's (Governours as should be "from time to time appointed." The making such a Law would be the greatest Detriment imaginable to the Colony, Because that after a Governour is elected on the first Wednesday in May according to Charter, no Person in This Colony can act in any Authority either Civil or Military throughout the Same till such Governour after elected has taken his Oath or Affirmation to the due Execution of that Office to qualify Himself to grant Commissions accordingly ; Such Officers being always chosen at the same Sessions the Day after the Governour: The ill Consequences whereof every Person may clearly discern should such Governour be obliged Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 65 to do it before Any of his Majesty's Governours of another Province, Sign'd by Order of the General Council Jas Martin Secretary To MT Richard Partridge Merchant in London THE SECRETARY OF RHODE ISLAND TO RICHARD PARTRIDGE. Newport Rhode Island 20'? December 1734 S". We expect You have before this Time received the Letter of the 6'^ September past signed by the Secretary by Order of the General Council Via Bos ton, with a Duplicate (But for fear of a Miscarriage You have herewith a Copy inclosed). It having been presented to Us and well approved of, wherefore You are desired to follow such Directions as is therein contained in the most proper Method. We have had your Letter of the 29'^ of June past communicated to Us, wherein You acknowledge the receipt of our Appeal relating [to] the Gore,^ which We hope is long since presented to his Majesty and the neighbouring Province ordered to be cited; If not done already desire it may be, as soon as You receive this: Because the Inhabitants of the Gore are extreamly oppressed by being haled to Goal and amerced in great Sums of Money As You may see by the Copies of the Judgments in the Courts of the 1 In the session of December, 1733, it was " Voted and resolved, that the appeal to His Majesty (relating to the gore of land in controversy), presented to this Assembly, is approved of, and ordered forthwith to be sent home to His Majesty, in Great Britam, signed by His Honor, the Governor." Col. Rec. ofR. I., IV. 491. 66 Correspondence of the Province : So that unless the Difference about the Jurisdiction thereof is push'd forward for a speedy Determination ; Or an Order obtained 'till then for a Suspension of the payment of any Rates and Taxes to the Province ; It will prove the total Ruin and Destruction of a great many Families inhabit ing thereon. You have herewith several Evidences relating to Violences that have been committed by the Officers of the Massachusetts Province on Sun dry of the People, Whom We claim to be under our Jurisdiction, of which You may make a proper Apphcation, Any other Papers that We shall think necessary in the Affair hereafter shall be transmitted. And You are desired to go on with this Appeal as expeditious as possibly You can (and suitable Remit tances shall be made for that purpose) Which will further confirm the good Esteem we have of You, Although it has been questioned by some Persons, Whether the near Alliance You are in to the Gov ernour of that Province^ and an Agent to him in his own private Affairs ; would not be prejudicial to Us in this Affair between the Governments .? But We are of Opinion that You are, (As We have always found You to be) a Man of more Honour and Integ rity and would sooner exert your Self in this than any other Matter, to avoid an Imputation. Your Letters about the Augmentation of your Salary have been laid before Us, and We having a great deal of Business did rise without acting thereon : But upon the good Success of the Affairs You have now in Commission You may expect from I Partridge was a brother-in-law of Governor Belcher. Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 67 Us a handsom Gratuity. We hope before this time You have received the Money from the Jersies for to defray the Expence of their Quota of your last Account about the Sugar Bill, and given this Colony Credit for the Same, if not received desire You will press them forward to make a Remittance for that purpose. We understand that Col? Lewis Morris the late Supreme Judge of the Province of New York is embarked for London, Where if He should arrive You are desired to advise with him about the Affair of the Gore, He being well acquainted therewith having had the perusall of all the Papers and partly concerned in drawing the State of the Case signed by our Commissioners already sent You. Sign'd by Order of his Honour the Governor In the Behalf of the General Assembly Jas. Martin Secretary To Mt Richard Partridge Merchant In London RICHARD PARTRIDGE TO GOVERNOR WANTON. London ii m? the 29. 1734. Goif. Wanton Thine of the 14. of the 6 mo. and Sec" Martins of 6 f" I have reed and observe the Contents ; I see the Affair I writt thee of relating to the Resolutions of the Lords last Sessions of Parliam' was not laid before yo' Assembly but that it was intended to be done the next Sessions — depend upon it I shall exert myself jointly with the other Agents in oppo- 68 Correspondence of the sition to the Bill intended to be brought in by the Judges, when ever it is, and comes under consider ation in the House of Lords : The Sessions of Par liament is now begun a few days since but nothing as yet of that kind has been exhibited, I have been up there 2 or 3 times already and due care must be taken to watch the proceedings, for that the Lords dont print their Votes as the Commons do. I writt thee some time since and sent thee the Attourny Gen'? opinion upon the Query I reed from thee, which I take to be alltogether in thy favour — and hope it got safe to thy hand tho' I have had no letter from thee in answer to it or to the other matter I then writt thee about As to our taking part in the War we are at as much uncertainty about it as ever by all that I can learn and what Judgm' to form we know not but hope for a continuance of Tranquility. I send thee herewith the Kings Speech and the 2 Addresses with other prints and remain w"" kind respects to thySelf and the Council and Assembly Thy ffaithfuU Frd R° Partridge I have got the Rh"^ Island Petition ^ exhibited to the King in Council, and from a Comittee it is referrd to the Lords of Trade, a Copy of the order of Refer ence comes inclosed. 1 See note on p. 30. Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 69 RICHARD PARTRIDGE TO JAMES MARTIN.^ Lond? 2? mo or April lo'? 1735 fames Martin Thine of the 6'^ SepT and 2o'^ DecT last I have received with the several Papers inclosed w"^*" I hope will be of good Service to us, and as Col? Morris^ is now here, we shall get what light and information we can of him in relation to the present dispute of the Boundary with the Province of the Massachu sets, which I intend to prosecute (with all faithfull- ness to those whom I represent, And be assured that no consideration whatever shall byass me to forfeit the Trust reposed in me, but my zeal for the Interest and good of the Colony of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations, shall be the same (with out the least variation) as it has all along hitherto been, (notwithstanding my Relationship ^ to Gov' Bel cher) otherwise I sh"^ be unworthy of the favour I have already receivd and of the continuation thereof I yet expect from the Colony, who I must needs own have generously kept me duely furnished with Supplys ; And I hope the Gentlemen there have a better opinion of me than to imagine I cou'd be 1 Secretary of the colony of Rhode Island. 2 This is probably Colonel Lewis Morris, Jr., of Westchester, N. Y., who served in behalf of Rhode Island on a commission which met. at New London, in 1733, to deter mine the Massachusetts-Rhode Island boundary, and was unable to come to an agree ment. The Rhode Island Assembly voted a silver tankard, engraved with the arms of the colony, to each of her three commissioners, " with the acknowledgement of this General Assembly, for their assistance in endeavoring to reconcile and put an end to the dispute between the two governments." Arnold, History of Rhode Island, II. 112. Arnold quotes Mass. Court Piles, III. 69-72. See for vote of the Assembly, Col. Rec. of R. I., IV. 488, and letter of December 20, 1734. 3 Brother-in-law. yo Correspondence of the guilty either of doing or omitting any thing whereby their Interest might suffer or be prejudiced in the least. As to an Order for a Suspention of Taxes, I have discoursd my Sohcitor upon it, and find it at present impracticable to be obtain'd. however we shall give it a further consideration, the Person I have employd as SolicitT is also engag'd for New Hampsh'? in the dispute of the Boundaries on the other side w"* the Massachusets which is now de pending.^ Our Colonys Petition has been some time since laid before the King in Council and referrd to a Committee who have since referrd it to the Lords Comis'? for Trade and Plantations where it now lyes for their Report and where it must first receive an Examination in due .form. In order whereto they have been pleas'd to order a Copy of our Petition to be sent to the Agent of the Province of the Massach'f with directions for him to procure an an swer to it in Six months time, as thou willt see by a Copy of Secretary Popples letter to him here in closed. Inclosed is one of the Maps of the Colony we have got done here with a Plate which our Solicitor insisted upon to be realy necessary — one of which maps is also sent to Agent Wilks by the said Sec retary. As to the Resolutions^ of the House of Lords respecting the Plantations (I heretofore writt the Govern'' off) The Judges have not yet brought in 1 See letter of xber (December) 31, 1736. 2 See letter of September 6, 1734. Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 71 any heads of a Bill as directed last Sessions of Par liam' but that House have resolved to take into con sideration on the 1 7 Instant the State of the Plan tations and the Lords of Trades Report, w* being delayd so long I am in hopes they will scarce be able to go through with anything of that nature this Sessions, but if they should push it, I shall exert myself to the utmost in vindicating the Rights and privilidges of the Colony and duely observe their motions. As to the Jersies I am sorry any difference sh^ arise touching the Charge I was at in opposing the Sugar Bill, and rather than there sh? be any contest remaining, I will give the Colony Credit back for fifty Pounds out of the Article chargd in my last ace! upon hopes of their coming in to an Augmen tation of my Salary, though I dont expect one Shil ling of it of the Jersies, they being considerably in arrears to me and I was only appointed Agent for 5 years as I remember. I was given to expect in GovT Cranstons time I should be considerd when the Affair of the Bound aries with Connecticut^ was ended, but after his death that matter dropt. and I hope the Colony will not postpone me till the present Affair is over, so re lying on their generosity I remain with due Respects Thy ffaithfuU ffriend RicH° Partridge To James Martin Esq Secretary of the Colony of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations In Newport 1 For an account of the Connecticut boundary, see p. xxii of the Introduction. 72 Correspondence of the THE LORDS OF TRADE TO THE GOVERNOR AND COMPANY OF RHODE ISLAND. Whitehall, June the 17'? 1735. Sir, His Majesty having been pleas'd, upon the address of the House of Commons dated the I2'^ of the last Month, to direct us to Prepare, in order to be laid before that House the next Session of Parliament, an Account of what Laws were in Force in any of His Majesty's Colonies in America on the 25'^ Day of March 1731, And what Laws have been since pass'd in any of them, by which any Duties or Im positions are laid on the Trade and Shipping of this Kingdom; As likewise an Account of what Duties or Impositions are now payable by an Act or Acts of Assembly in any of the British Colonies and Plan tations in America, on the Importation and Expor tation of Negroes, Wines, or other kind of Liquors or on any Goods, Wares or Merchandize and Ship ping, distinguishing each Duty or Imposition. We desire, you will forthwith upon Receipt hereof, cause to be prepar'd, and transmit to Us as soon as possi ble a List of the said Laws and the Accounts before mentioned belonging to your Gov! So we bid you heartily farewell, and are. Your very loving Friends and humble Servants, Fitz Walter T. Pelham R. Plumer Jon. Ashe Ja. Brudenell. O. Bridgeman Hon''?^ Govt and CompT of Rhode Island. Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 73 THE GOVERNOR AND COMPANY OF RHODE ISLAND TO THE LORDS OF TRADE. Hon^f Sirs In Obedience to his Majesty's Command signi fied to Us by your Letter of the I7*^ June past^ re lating to what Laws were in force in this Colony on the 25*? March 1731 and what have been since pass'd laying any Duties or Impositions on the Trade or Shipping of Great Britain, Or any other Duties or Impositions now payable on the Importation or Exportation of Negroes Wines, or other kind of Liquors Or on any Goods, Wares or Merchandizes whatsoever : We do now in pursuance thereof in form You That We had not then nor have now any Act or Law in this Colony that lays any Duty or Imposition on the Trade or Shipping of Great Britain, Or on the Importation or Exportation of any Goods Wares or Merchandizes of any kind whatsoever. But some few Years before. We had only a Duty of £2) P^^ head on Negroes imported from the West Indies (and then exempted therefrom All directly from Africa) Which Act was immedi ately repealed upon the receipt of an Order from Your Hon"* Board. We heartily Salute You with the greatest Respect. I See preceding letter. 74 Correspondence of the Sign'd by Order and in behalf of the Governour and Company of his Majesty's English Colony of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations in New England Newport on Rhode Island I'.' December 1735. To the Right Hon''!' Lords CommT' for Trade and Plantations London GOVERNOR WANTON TO RICHARD PARTRIDGE. Newport Rhode Island i'.' Dec! 1735 Your Letters to the Governour and Secretary have been communicated to Us, and we apprehend that We have already sent You Evidences sufficient to shew that the Plimouth Grant never reached the Lands in Controversy now with the Massachusetts Province by many Miles, And inclosed have sent You further Evidences of the late GovT Jenks and Mt Sprague to prove the continual Claims of this Colony thereto for near 70 Years back. We desire You to put forward this Affair with the greatest Expedition You possibly can. And for that purpose You may certainly expect to be furnished with a Supply the next Spring hoping in the mean time that the ballance now in your hands will be suf ficient. But if not and You should want before then (Rather than our Cause should suffer) If You will advance the Money that shall be wanting 'till You have a Remittance, We will make You an Allow ance for the Same. Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 75 Inclosed We have sent You a Letter open accord ing to your Draught for the Right Hon'']^ ST Charles Wager ^ which You are desired to seal and super scribe and wait upon him with it praying his further good Offices and Assistance to Us in procuring the Cannon. And You have likewise inclosed a Letter to the Lords Comm'? for Trade and Plantations wherein We have answered their Demand relating to any Act of this Colony laying Duties or Imposi tions on the Trade or Shipping of Great Britain Or any Goods Wares or Merchandizes whatsoever Hav ing no Duty at all here either Inward or Outward.^ We might Once more press You to use your ut most Efforts against the passing any Bill upon the Resolutions of the Lords relating to the sending home our Laws for the Royal Approbation &c And as to what You write about the Augmentation of your Salary The General Assembly do not seem to incline to come into that Method But are willing to allow You a handsom Gratuity upon the Conclusion of this Affair against the Province, And You need not be under any Apprehension of being served now As You write You was upon the Determination of the Connecticut Boundary They being very unan imous to make You a suitable Compensation. When You send any Packet again on the Colo ny's Affairs of any Bigness (Postage now running very high) We desire You'l put it under Cover to MT Benjamin Bagnell Watchmaker in Boston who will take Care and transmit it here by some private Hand, there being always Oportunities from thence for such a purpose. 1 See the following document. " See preceding letter. 76 Correspondence of the In the last Conference of the Meeting of the Com missioners ^ on the part of each Government at New London the Committee that attended for the Pro vince for the Massachusetts Bay insisted very much that they had made a Purchase of the Lands in Controversy Which We allow. For our Dispute with them is not for the Property of the Lands, But only for the Right of Jurisdiction And therefore thought proper to give You a Hint of this Not knowing but they might make Use of the same Argum! again at home Sign'd by OrdT of the Gen! Assembly John Wanton GovT To MT Richard Partridge Merch! in London THE GOVERNOR AND COMPANY OF RHODE ISLAND TO SIR CHARLES WAGER.^ Hon'^f S-. The Inhabitants of this Colony of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations being sensible of your Regards and Readiness to serve them, Which You 1 Commissioners to settle the disputed boundary line between Massachusetts and Rhode Island. 2 Enclosed in Wanton's letter of December i. Charles Wager was the nephew of John Hull, a London merchant who removed to Newport, and by whom he was adopted. He served with Hull in several voyages across the Atlantic, and his gallant conduct attracted the attention of friends who were able to secure him a post in the royal navy, where he ultimately became first lord of the admiralty, and a member of the privy council. He has a monument in Westminster Abbey. The colony of Rhode Island relied much in its suit with Massachusetts upon Wager's local knowledge, as well as his disposition in favor of the home of his adoption. See Weeden's Economic History of New England, 11. 6oo, and Sheffield's Privateersmen of Newport, pp. ii, 42. Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 77 have been pleased to demonstrate at all Times when Application has been made to You by our Agent (as He has inform'd Us) calls for our grate ful Acknowledgement in Return thereof which I now make to You, Hon^!° ST in their Behalf, pray ing a Continuance of Your further Favours as there shall be any Occasion Yet We hope that MT Par tridge will not at any Time be troublesom in wait ing uppn You, But as urgent Necessity shall urge Him to it He lately informs Us likewise That upon a Peti tion referred from His Majesty in Council for a Supply of a Number of Cannon for our Fortification here (Upon the Foundation of our Address a few Years since) The Lords Commissioners for Trade and Plantations have been so good as to come into a Report in our Favour for a Grant of 20 Cannons and 20 Shotts for each Gun. This comes therefore humbly to request That You would be pleased to favour Us so farr with a Contin uation of your good Offices That the said Report may be carried on to effect, which will be a very signal Service to this Colony, who have within a few Years past been at the Expence of ;^ 15000 this Cur rency in building an intire new and regular Fortifi cation capable of mounting 50 or 60 Cannons, Those We have had hitherto were but 12 in Number and they so old and decayed are hardly fit for any Use, But lately We have got 24 Pieces from London at our own Cost. And considering this Colony has not put the Crown hitherto to any the least Expence or Charge jS Correspondence of the for its Support And that the well Fortifying It against any Invasion of an Enemy will be of great Consequence, As well to the Neighbouring Govern ments more imediately under the Crown as to the Government it Self, We humbly hope this our Re quest will be the more readily granted, and which will lay Us under Obligation in the most sensible and dutiful Manner to his sacred Majesty. I hope You will Excuse the Trouble of this and heartily salute You with due Respects In behalf of the Governour and Company of his Majesty's English Colony of Rhode Island and Pro vidence Plantation in New England and am Hon''!* St Your most obedient and most devoted humble Serv! Ja: Martin Secretary. Newport on Rhode Island I'.' October 1735 To the Right Hon''!* ST Charles Wager RICHARD PARTRIDGE TO GOVERNOR WANTON. London 12 mo. the 6. 173I. Govr Wanton I hive reed thine of the i? DecemT last with the Papers inclosed ^ w*"" doubtless will be of Service to us : — I would gladly have the affair of that Contro versy brought forward to a Hearing with all the expedition that well could be, and in order to it the Lords of Trade have been duely solicited to press 1 See preceding letter. Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 79 the Massachusets Agent for his answer which at length he has delivf in,^ for till that was done there was no such thing as making any progress at that Board, which answer I Send thee herewith, my Soli citor informs me it contains great numbers of new facts as to which we have not sufficient Instructions hitherto — that it cannot be proper to move for a Hearing until such time as the Colony Shall have given particular information and taken further proofs w'"* relation to the Matters therein contained, and must wait your further directions thereabout. I see the disposition of the Assembly as to my Salary, so do not intend to give them any further trouble about it. I intend to take a proper opportunity to wait on Sir C. Wager with the letter but doubt it is too late to get anything done in that affair this Year The preliminary Articles for a Peace between the late contending Powers at War^ have been some time since agreed on and it is not doubted but a general Peace will ensue and tranquility restored to Europe which is doubtless very much owing to the endeavours of the King of Great Britain. I am Thy assured Fr* R? Partridge To John Wanton Esq! Govern' of Rhode Island and Providence Plan tations — . , 1 Arnold gives the date of the answer of Wilks, the Massachusetts agent, to the petition of Rhode Island as January 9, 173?. History of Rhode Island, II. 117. 2 The war of tbe Polish succession. England and Holland submitted a plan of pacification which was finally rendered acceptable to France, Austria, and Spain, and sisned at Vienna in 17-??. 8o Correspondence of the GOVERNOR WANTON TO RICHARD PARTRIDGE. Newport Rhode Island ii*May 1736 sr Yours of the 6'? of February past ^ came safe with the Answer of the Massachusetts Agent to our Com plaint, of which We shall take Care and fully answer such Matters of Fact as You have not Evidence already sufficient for. Having ordered a Committee for that purpose and desired to make what Dispatch they possibly can. The Assembly only met this Time for the General Election and to choose their Officers both Civil and Military throughout the Government, and adjourn'd to the 2°.* Monday in June for Business, and then You may expect to have a further Supply for the carrying on this Affair according to your Desire And likewise such further Instructions as will be necessary for the pressing forward this Matter to a speedy Determination Sign'd in Behalf of the General Assembly John Wanton Gov! To MT Richard Partridge Merch! In London RICHARD PARTRIDGE TO GOVERNOR WANTON. London xber the 31. 1736 Governour Wanton , I received thy letter dated the II'^ of May last '^ intimating the receipt of the Massachusets Agents I See preceding letter. > See preceding letter. Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 8i Answer to our Complaint and that care would be taken to answer such matters of Fact as we had not already sufficient Evidence for &c — which yet are not come to my hands, when they do I shall with my Solicitor do my utmost for the Service and Interest of the Colony, but at present all things relating to that dispute lye still here and we are not able to pro ceed for want of yo' Reply. There has been a long dispute depending between the Massach" and N. HampshT about their Boundaries ^ and at length it results after this manner — Com mission'? are Nominated by the Crown to examine into the Affair and as I think to fix the Bounds or to make Report of their Opinion in what manner they ought to be adjusted, the number of CommisT^ are Twenty, viz 5 out of the Council of Rhode Island 5 of N. York 5 of N. Jersie and 5 of Nova Scotia, but because these persons are appointed by the Crown at the recommendation of the L**? of Trade the Massachusets Agent if I am rightly informed intend to controvert the Nomination in as much as they were imposed on them without either Province having so much as the liberty of choosing any part of them, thus I thought it proper to give thee some hints of this affair and as they proceed in it thou mayst expect to have a further account from me. No GovernT absolutely appointed for New York^ 1 A detailed account of the dispute and its settlement is given in Hutchinson's Mas sachusetts Bay, II. 382-391, where the statement is made that the commissioners were all proposed by the New Hampshire agent. See note to letter of 9ber (November) 3, 1738- 2 Governor Cosby died in March, 1736. Lord Delaware was appointed in June, 1737- 82 Correspondence of the yet. the King is still in Holland waiting only for a fair wind for his Return who has been absent this time longer than usual. I herewith send thee sundry Prints for thy Amuse ment and with kind Respects remain Thy faithfull i^ Rich? Partridge the Colony may depend upon the ability of our Solici tor ^ whom I have employd in the affair of the Bound aries with the Massachusets — for he has had a large Experience in things of that kind and scarce any equal to him or however to exceed him : he is the same as is employd for N. Hampsh'? against the Massach'? and by the Penns of Pensilv? against Lord Baltimore — about their Boundaries. To John Wanton Esq Governour of the Colony of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations RICHARD PARTRIDGE TO GOVERNOR WANTON. London 3? mo the 5. 1737 Governr Wanton nothing has happend here since I writt thee last affecting your Colony, all things lye dormant relating to the dispute with the Massachusets neither can any 1 Ferdinando John Paris, a London solicitor, who was active in representing vari ous colomal and individual interests during the thirty years from 1730 to 1760. Hutch inson alludes to him as " one of the first rate and who had a peculiar talent at slurring the characters of his antagonists. Many of his briefs which I have seen, abound in this way." History of Massachusetts Bay, II. 384. Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 83 further proceeding be made therein till I have a Reply to their paper, a Copy whereof I sent thee some time since.^ This Sessions of Parliam! is like to pass over without doing any thing relating to the Plantations in general, save that some endeavours have been used for bringing in a Bill for the encouraging the importation of pig Iron as well as bar Iron from the Plantations and for putting a Stop to the erect ing or making for the future any Slitting Mills, in which affair they proceeded so far as to appoint a Committee who met often upon it examind several Evidences and at length brought in their Report, but yesterday they dropt it for this Sessions, that is it was put off for 6 weeks : before the end of which time the Parliam! will break up — whether they will resume it the next Sessions time must discover. inclosed I send thee a News paper w*'' contains some considerations on the Subject — and am with respects to thy Self and the Gentlemen of the Council Thy assured Friend Rich" Partridge To John Wanton Esq Governour of the Colony of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations. 1 Arnold says that on October 27, 1737, Partridge presented to the Board of Trade his answer to the memorial of the Massachusetts agent, combating his positions at great length, and under twenty heads of reply. History of Rhode Island, II. 118. 84 Correspondence of the RICHARD PARTRIDGE TO GOVERNOR WANTON. London S'f the 18. 1737 Governour Wanton In answer to thine of the 4'.'' 5'? mo. last relating to our Solicitor Paris.^ Above thou hast a Copy ^ of what he writt me on that head : I think indeed he might have acquainted me w"' that affair w"** I knew nothing off before, however I am fully perswaded he will act the just part with us in the Affair I have employ'd him in, and is the Same Solicitor the New Hamps'? Agent employd in their Business against the Massachusets about the' Boundarys between them, wherein as I take it he has had Success,* and I thought him the fitter to be employd for us, not doubting but he may be depended upon to do his best to serve us — alltho' I think he might have spared some expressions in his foregoing answer I am with due Respects Thy assured Friend Rich? Partridge To John Wanton Esq Governour of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations 1 See notes to letter of Xber (December) 31, 1736. " See the following document. 8 The commission for settling the New Hampshire boundary was issued April q 1737- Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 85 F. J. PARIS TO RICHARD PARTRIDGE.^ Sir At my return to Town last night I mett your favour of the 20'.'' of last month in relation to MT M?Sparrans Affair, and take this first opportunity to acquaint you in answer thereto that I did write such Letter as therein enclosed to Mt^ Auchmuty, and that the Contents of it were true, and particularly it was thought very strange and arbitrary that, for the very same parcell of Land, the Colony should readily allow M' Torrey an Appeal to the King but refuse one to M' M^Sparran,* and I am still of Opinion that had M' M'^Sparran prosecuted any Complaint as ag! the Colony, for it and other irregularitys in his Affair, they could not have been justified. But I was very farr from inflaming that Affair, or endeavouring to aggravate matters. On the contrary my Clyent and my self both sought for peace.* The Governor seems to think strange I should not acquaint you of this matter, especially as I am employed by you to Sup port the Colonys right to the Gore, but I believe upon recollection he and you both will think that those two different matters have no sort of relation each to the other. The Colony may be assured I 1 Enclosed in preceding letter. 3 Robert Auchmuty, agent for Massachusetts in the boundary case. s The reference is to the famous case of the Narragansett Church Lands, in which McSparran was plaintiff. For an account of the affair see Douglass's Summary, II. 104 ; Updike's Episcopal Church in Rhode Island, 68-S2 ; .ff. /. Hist. Coll., III. 123 ; Hazeltine's Appeals from Colonial Courts, in the Report of the American Historical Association for 1894, p. 340, et seq. * Dr. McSparran went to England in June, 1736, and returned in August, 1737. Updike's Narragansett Church, p. 191. 86 Correspondence of the shall render them the most faithfull Service in rela tion to the Gore, As, on the other hand, I shall think I owe the same Duty to Mr McSparran in relation to his matter. F. J. Paris RICHARD PARTRIDGE TO GOVERNOR WANTON. London 2? mo. 29'? 1738 Governf. Wanton I writt thee last of the lo'? and 13'!' 12 moi" last, via Boston, since which I have had none of thy favours, and now I can inform thee, that after several appointments of the Lords of Trade, we had a Hear ing before them by Councel learned in the Law on the 25'!" and 28'!" Inst, for our Collony were Counce? Murray^ and Clark, the former, to wit, Murray is allowed I believe as eminent in his profession as any in England and indeed pleaded excellently well. during the course of the proceedings, I observ'd a disposition in the Lords for advising the King to appoint Commissioners to adjust (the dispute about the Gore of Land) between the two contending Colonys there upon the Spott, for they seem'd to observe from what was argued on both sides, that they did not agree as to the names of the Rivers or Places about the Boundarys, and that the names of them differ'd in their Spelling or being written, to what they were formerly, and therefore could not see it was possible upon considering the whole to decide it here — and yesterday after they broke up I went 1 William Murray, Lord Mansfield. See note to letter of February 21, 1743. Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 87 to their Secretary to learn if I could what would be the purport of the Lords Report and find it will be as I apprehended as aforesaid, that is for appointing Commissioners out of some of the neighbouring Governments which is what the Concel for the Mas sachusets very streniously argued against and oppos'd at the Hearing, and therefore I take it a point gained in our favour, for I understand EsqT Wilks intends to oppose the Report when it comes to the Commit tee of Council and then we are like to have another Struggle, so that this as usual will be a chargeable affair, it cost me 40 guineas bare Councel ffees at these 2 days of Hearing. I hope the Colony will soon make me some Remittance and in the mean time nothing shall be wanting on my part to serve their Interest. As to the Sugar Act, that being now expired, the reviving of it is postponed and it is too late in the Sessions to do any thing in it this Parliament. The House of Commons in a Committee of the whole House have come to several Resolutions re lating to Iron in the Plantations, as for putting down the forges and Slitting Mills &c. upon which con siderable debates arose without coming to any con clusion as to the ordering of a bill to be brought in and adjournd the further debates to the 2? of next month but as there is so great an opposition to it and the Sessions like to break up in about 2 weeks time its thought it will drop, the Votes wherein the said Resolutions are, I send thee inclosed, but if they should conclude to bring in a Bill pursuant thereto, we intend to petition to be heard by Councel against it. 88 Correspondence of the The House of Commans have been very much taken up of late upon the Jamaica Merch'? Com plaints of the Depredations of the Spaniards ^ and have examined several Witnesses touching the plun dering and Captures of Ships and barbarous usage of the Sailers — which has made a great noise, but its thought after all it will not produce a War with Spain (tho' I confess once I thought it could hardly be avoided) for our Ministry seems to be for using their utmost endeavours to have matters accomodated in a pacific way — and they say France is for inter posing their good offices towards it, but the English seem to have but a mean opinion of their mediation as that it cannot but be expected they will be partial in favour of Spain, however preparations are mak ing for fitting out a fleet of Men of War. I was in the House of Commons when Murray'^ the Councel for the West India Merchants Summ'd up the Evidence and proofs relating to the affair and heard the debates of the Members thereupon, some hints whereof I comitted to writing and send thee inclosed for thy amusement and am with respects. Thy assured Friend, Rich? Partridge 3? mo. the 12. 1738 Since the foregoing the L^.' of Trade have made their Report to the Lords Committee of Council, a Copy whereof I send thee here inclosed, wherein thou 1 The Assiento of 1713 was used as a cloak for smuggling operations by both English and colonial traders. The claim of Spain to the right of searching suspected vessels aroused great Ipopular excitement in England, which resulted in the war of 1739. See " Debates in the Senate of Lilliput," Gentleman's Magazine (1738). 2 See note on p. 86. Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 89 willt see they are for having Com'? appointed in the Neighbouring Provinces to settle the Boundaries or dividing line, but we expect it will yet be controverted before the Lords Comittee by the Massach" Agent Fran! Wilks. alltho' he may do so, yet I am apt to think the Report will be agreed to by the Committee also — and when the Board of Trade come to a Nomination of the Com'? I shall take care that none of them be appointed out of the Colony of Connecti cut, as I suppose they on the other hand will object ag?' New Hampsh'.* The Sugar Bill^ w".** for some time was postpon'd is now like to be renewed for 7 years, w* I suppose was principally done on ace! of some other matters in it besides what related to the high dutys on For eign Molosses &c imported into our Plantations. As for opposing it, I did not find any of the other Agents woud medle in it, and I considd the Charge wo*^ be too heavy for one only to do it. The Iron Bill is dropt for this Session, Thine as before R? Partridge To John Wanton EsqT Governor of Rhode Island and Providence Plan tations. 1 The provisions of the Sugar Bill of 1733 were three years later extended to all ships belonging to Great Britain (15 Geo. II. c. 33, f. 5), and the former statute was continued by successive enactments, the last bringing it to September, 1785. Stokes's View of the Constitution of the British Colonies in North America and the West Indies, p. 38. ^o Correspondence of the RICHARD partridge TO GOVERNOR WANTON. London 3 mo. 20'? 1738 Govr Wanton Alltho' the House of Commons have come to divers resolutions with respect to their Cramping the Plantations in making or manufacturing Iron, yet when a Bill was brought into the House for that pur pose and read, there was a Negative soon put upon it and consequently thrown out or dropt intirely for this year, which Bill as it was Presented to the House for the extraordinariness of it obtaind a copy of it and send thee herewith.^ It's very probable the next Sessions of Parliam! they will begin upon it again which I thought proper to hint to thee from Thy real Fr'* R? Partridge this day the King came to the House of Lords and after giving the Royal Assent to severall Acts of parliam! put an end to this Sessions Iron Bill. [1738.] A Bill for Encouraging the Making and Manufacturing of Bar Iron in Great Britain and preventing the Increase of Bar Iron and Iron Manufacturers in the Plantations. Whereas the making of Bar Iron in Great Britain hath of late Years greatly decreased and the Manufactures made from Bar Iron in His Majestys Plantations have for some years last past greatly increased Now for preventing any prejudice and Incon- 1 See the following document. Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 91 venience that may thereby ensue to His Majestys Subjects and for promoting and encouraging of Trade and Manufactures with in the Kingdom of Great Britain Be it Enacted by the Kings 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 from and after the day of No Mill or Mills for • Slitting of Iron or any Furnace or Furnaces for making Steel shall be Used Wrought or Employed in any of the Plantations of His Majesty His Heirs or Successors in America And that from and after the said day of No Forge or Forges Bloomery or Bloomerys Work or Works for making of Bar Iron (other than such as were made erected built employed and Workt at before the day of 1738 shall be erected built used wrought or employed in any of the said Plantations And also that from and after the said day of One thousand seven hundred and No New or Additional Hearth or Hearths Wheel or Wheels shall be made erected or Set up in or to any fforge or Forges Bloomery or Bloomeries now standing and in Use in any of the said Plantations And it is hereby far ther Enacted that if any person or persons shall from and after the day of One thousand Seven hundred and erect build and set up or cause to be built erected or set up in any part of the said Plantations any Mill or Mills or either engine for Slitting Iron or any Furnace or Furnaces for making of Steel or shall use work or employ any such Mill Engine or Furnace already made or erected in and for Slitting Iron for making Steel respectively every person or persons so offending shall for every such Slitting Mill Slitting Engine or Steel Fur nace so to be erected built set up workt or employed forfeit and pay the sum of One hundred pounds Sterling and shall 2dso forfeit and loose all the Steel and Iron to be made and Slitt in the said Furnaces and Slitting Mills respectively And also shall forfeit and pay for every month where in any Iron shall be Slitt or any Steel shall be made in any of the said Slitting Mills and Fur naces respectively the Sum of fifty pounds Sterling. And be it further Enacted that if any person or persons from and after the day of One Thousand Seven hundred and Erect build and Set up or Cause to be erected built 92 Correspondence of the and Sett up in any of the said Plantations any new fforge or fforges Bloomery or Bloomerys Work or Works for making of Bar Iron besides such as were built erected set up and worked at before the day of One thousand seven hundred and Thirty eight ox make erect and build or Cause to be made erected and built any New or Additional Hearth or Hearths Wheel or Wheels in or to any fforge or Bloomery now erected built Stand ing and being in any part of the said plantations every person so offending shall for every such new fforge or Bloomery And for every new Additional Hearth or Wheel so to be made erected built and Sett up respectively as aforesaid forfeit and pay the sum of five hundred pounds and shall also forfeit and loose all the Bar Iron to be made in at or by means of such New and Addi tional fforges Bloomerys Hearths Wheels and Works respectively And shall also forfeit and pay ior every month wherein any Bar Iron shall be made at, in, or by means of any fforge Bloomery Hearth or Wheel to be made erected and set up Contrary to the Tenor of this Act the Sum of fifty pounds And it is hereby farther Enacted by the Authority aforesaid That all the penalties and forfeitures before shall and may be recovered by Action Bill Plaint or Information in any of his Majestys Courts in such of the Lands Islands Colonys Planta tions Territories or places where the Offences against this Act shall be Committed or in any Court of Record in Great Britain at the pleasure and Option of the person or persons who shall Sue or prosecute for the same wherein No Essoign protection or more than one Imparlance shall be allowed and that upon all such Actions Suit and Informations the Offences may be laid or alledged to be in any Colony Province County Precinct or Division of any of the said Plantations where such Offences are Alledged to be Committed at the pleasure of the person or persons who shall Sue and prosecute the same And That one Moiety or half part of the said penalties and forfeitures shall go and belong to the Governor Deputy Governor or Commander in Chief residing in the Island Colony Plantation Territory or place where the Offence shall be Committed And the other Moiety to the person or persons who shall Sue and prosecute for the same. And that each and every Governor Deputy Governor or Com mander in Chief of any of the Lands Islands Colonies places or Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 93 Territories in America where any Slitting Mill or Steel ffurnace or any New or Additional fforge or fforges Bloomery or Bloom erys Hearth or Hearths Wheel or Wheels shall be erected built made Sett up wrought or employed respectively, contrary to the Tenor and true Meaning of this Act is and are hereby Author ized Impowered directed and required upon Information to him and them respectively made and given upon the Oath of any two or more Credible Witnesses if any such Slitting Mill or Steel ffurnace or New or Additional fforge or fforges Bloomery or Bloomeries Hearth or Hearths Wheel or Wheels being made erected built set up wrought or employed contrary to the tenor and true Meaning of this Act And which Oath such Governor Deputy Governor or Commander in Chief is and are hereby Authorized and required to Administer to Order and direct and Cause the same respectively to be pulled down demolished and destroyed within the space of three months next after such Infor mation given as aforesaid And if any Governor Deputy Governor or Commander in Chief shall Neglect or Refuse so to do within the time hereinbefore Limitted for that purpose Or in any Case any Governor Deputy Governor or Commander in Chief of any of the said plantations in America from and after the day of One Thousand Seven hundred and thirty eight be con cerned in any of the Slitting Mills Steel Furnaces fforges and Bloomeries or other Works intended to be Restrained prohibited or prevented from being built or erected or wrought by this Act or in any share and profits of in or out of the same every such Governor Deputy Governor or Commander in Chief so offending shall for any such Offence be removed from and forfeit his Office place or Government and shall also forfeit and pay the Sum of One thousand pounds Sterling to be recovered by the ways and means herein before directed and prescribed or any of them whereof One Moiety shall go to his Majesty his Heirs and Suc cessors and the other Moiety to such person or persons as shall prosecute and Sue for the Same And shall from thenceforth be rendred incapable of holding or enjoying any place of Trust or profit under his Majesty his Heirs or Successors And it is hereby farther Enacted That if any person or persons shall at any time be sued or prosecuted for any thing by him or them done in pursuance and Execution of this Act he or they may QA Correspondence of the plead the General Issue and give this Act in Evidence And if a Verdict pass for the Defendant or Defendants or the plaintiff be Non Suit or forbear prosecution The Defendant shall have Treble Costs to be recovered as in other Cases where Costs are given by Law to Defendants And it is hereby farther Enacted and Declared That this Act shall be deemed and taken to be a pub lick Act and all Judges and Justices shall take Notice thereof as such without Specially pleading or Setting forth the same vera Copia RICHARD PARTRIDGE TO GOVERNOR WANTON. London 4'? mo : the 21'.' 1738 Governor Wanton My last to thee was of the 16. Instant per Cap! Bonner via Boston to which I refer, this comes now to bring thee a Copy of the Massach'? Agents Pet? ^ to the King in Council in relation to the Lords of Trades Report touching the Bounds between them and the Colony — this Petition is newly lodgd at the Council Office and is to be presented the next gen eral Council day when it will of Course be referrd to the Committee who will as usual appoint a day for considering it and admit the Agents to be heard by their Councel for and against it, which I shall push forward with what expedition we can : I should be glad of a few lines from thee who am with respects Thy assured Friend Rich? Partridge I herewith send thee (with some News papers) a Copy of the Speaker of the House of Commons his 1 Praying that no new commissioners be appointed, but that a decision be rendered in accordance with the recommendation of the Lords of Trade. Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 95 Speech to the King in the House of Lords at the breaking up the Sessions of Parliam! w* is what we can scarce ever or very rarely obtain, it being some thing curious I send it thee thinking it might be acceptable. To Governor Wanton RICHARD PARTRIDGE TO GOVERNOR WANTON. London 6 mo. the 19'? 1738 Governor Wanton The last I writt thee were of the 21?' and 27'^ 4 mo. last since w** I have not had any of thy favours — as to the Affair of the Lords of Trades Report^ (a Copy whereof I have sent thee) nothing can be further done in it till the Committee of Council begin to sitt again, w* its thought will hardly be till some time in OctoT next, before that time I hope to hear from thee. [T] here has of late a considerable Number of Men of War put into Commission, a hott press for Sea- Men and a great Stir in publick about the contest with Spain ^ w'='' made People imagine one while that a War was just going to breake out : but after all they now seem to be of opinion that Peace will be maintaind and that what we are doing is only to intimidate the Spaniards — what to think of the Consequence I know not. time must make manifest: It is certain the Nation is put to a very [great] Expence — and if there by the publick Tranquility can be estab- 1 See note on p. 90. " See note on p. 88. g6 Correspondence of the lished, the Spaniards bro' to reason, that is to make satisfaction to our Injur'd Merchants, and our Trade to the West Indies securd without coming to Blows it were abundantly best, for the rest I refer to the publick Prints herewith sent and remain with respects Thy faithfull friend Rich? Partridge To Governor Wanton. JOHN PEAGRUM TO GOVERNOR WANTON. Hon^ Sir The Bearer MT Joseph Wanton is Appointed Dep'?' Collector in the Room of MT Lechmere I De sire You will Administer to him the Oaths Required by Law and give him Your Aid and Assistance in the Execution of his Duty as it may become Neces sary I am w* great Respect Yo"' Hon--^ Most Hum"' Serv' Jn. Peagrum Boston 25 Aug" 1738 To the Hon"' Jn° Wanton Esq' Gov' &c. GOVERNOR BELCHER TO GOVERNOR WANTON. Hono".' Sir I duly rec^ your Favour of 28'^ Ult?,' and com municated it to His Majesty's Council of this Pro vince, with the Copy of the Report of the Lords of 1 In the August session of the Rhode Island General Assembly provision was made for notifying Govemor Belcher of the report of the Lords of Trade to the Lords of the Committee of Council. Col. Rec. of R. /., IV. 547. Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 97 Trade respecting the Disputed Boundary between this Province and your Colony, a Copy of which the Agent of this Province had transmitted some time ago ; and His Majesty's Council here are of opinion, as this is only a Report of the Lords of Trade not acted upon by the Right Hono"' the Lords of His Majesty's most Honourable Privy-Council, nor any Order of the King made out in the matter, that it can be no Direction to the several Governments; however they are very much inclin'd, and so am I, to do every thing, that may have a Tendency to Peace and good Neighbourhood between the two Governments. And when the Assembly meets here, your Letter shall be laid before them, that the. whole Legislature may make out an Order for quieting the Borderers on the Line, 'till there may be a final Settlement, which I desire you to press your Agent to expedite, and the Agent of this Province will be instructed in Conformity. I am Sir, Your Honour's Most Obedient Humble Servant J. Belcher Boston Septr. ii'f 1738. GovT Wanton. richard partridge to governor wanton. London 9'!' 3? 1738 Governor Wanton My last to thee was of the I9'^ 6 mo. last via Bos ton per Cap! Morris wherein I omitted thro' forget fulness acknowledging the receipt of thine dated the gS Correspondence of the 1 6. May last per John Bannister which I duely had by him — and it was a satisfaction to me to see that my good Friends of the Colony of Rhode Island were not uneasy at my being engaged for the Massa chusets in the Affair of their Boundaries with New HampshV And now as to the Matter that relates to the dis pute w"" the Massachusets about the Gore of Land : agreeable to what I heretofore Writt thee, their Agent Wilks did Petition against the Lords of Trades Report^ some time since, and at the very first Sitting of the Lords Committee of Council this Season our Solicitor made a motion that it might be brought on to a Hearing as soon as their LordShips wo"* admit of it, which accordingly was agreed to, and the 1st Instant appointed for that purpose. In w* Cause we had for our Counsel the famous Counselor Murray and CounT Clark wherein to do them Justice they acted their parts as well (I think) as it was pos sible for Men to do, urging pretty much the Same Arguments as they did before the Board of Trade ; 1 See note to letter of Xber 31, T736. The settlement of the New Hampshire-Mas sachusetts boundary question was long delayed by disputes between the parties inter ested as to the appointment and method of procedure of a Boundary Commission, issued April 9, 1737. The New Hampshire parties felt deeply aggrieved by the political intrigues of Governor Belcher, in the Massachusetts interest, and presented to the King a petition (September 6, 1737) embodying the facts at issue. A counter- petition was presented " about the 9th of October, 1738," by Francis Wilks and Richard Partridge, of London, Merchants, (as Agents for the said Governour and the Council and assembly of the Massachusetts Bay)." A circumstantial account of the matter down to 1740C. is given in a petition to the Crown presented by John Thomlinson, Agent for New Hampshire, praying for the removal of Governor Belcher. New Hampshire Province Papers, V. 921. The matter was not finally adjusted until March, 1740, by a decree of the Privy Council, which gave New Hampshire a territory even more extensive than that she had claimed. Palfrey, History of New England, IV. 558 2 See note on p. 96. Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 99 And upon the whole the Lords Committee agreed to confirm that Boards Report and that a Commis sion sh^ Issue to appoint Commissioners accordingly, which Resolution of theirs is to be reported to the King in Council and from thence Directions will be given to the Lords of Trade to nomminate proper persons and to prepare the Commission : and when that is about, we shall duely attend for that purpose, takeing due care that Suitable Persons be appointed; and this I hope will meet with the approbation of the Colony for I can assure them nothing was want ing nor any pains Spared on our parts to Serve their Interest therein, and it was as much as our Solicitor and mySelf were able to bring about towards for warding the Completion of this Dispute. for public News I refer to the Publick Prints here with Sent thee, hopeing by the next Ship from Bos ton I shall have the pleasure of hearing from thee with a Supply according to my former Request, in the mean time I remain with due Respects to thy Self and the Gentlemen of the Council and house of Representatives Their faithfull ffriend RiCH° Partridge The Lords Committee present at this Hearing were Lord President Lord Abercorn Lord Monson Lord Ch : Justice Willes and the Speaker of the House of Commons To Governor Wanton loo Correspondence of the RICHARD PARTRIDGE TO GOVERNOR WANTON. London 12'.'' mo. the 10. i73f Governor Wanton This brings thee an Order of Council for Com missioners to be appointed to mark out the Dividing Line &c. between Rhode Island and the Massachu sets respecting the Gore of Land in dispute, as also Copys of the Lords Committee of Councils Report agreeable to the Board of Trades Report for appoint ing Commissioners. and of an Order of the Lords Committees to the Board of Trade to return the Names of proper per sons for CommT' to setle the Boundaries. and of the Report ' of the Board of Trade conform able thereto. and of an Order of the King in Council for Peti tioners to give Security to pay Costs as may be awarded for the future. all which are Expensive but there's no avoiding it, and I do assure thee I have left nothing undone hitherto on my part for the Service of the Colony that I judgd would make for their advantage, and I doubt not but my Endeavours will meet with their Approbation, it being impossible as I apprehend to have done more. The next Thing to be done is to get the Commis sion Issued which as my Solicitor informs me wo'' come to about ;^ 1 20 — ster^ under the great Seal ; On consideration of which I proposd we sh'^ have it Issued only by an Order from the King in Council 1 See the following document. Colonial Governors of Rhode Island loi by consent on both sides to save the Exorbitant Expence, which Lord President on our Application does not oppose, provided Agent Wilks in Person signifys his full consent thereto, which I do not doubt off, and therefore hope it will go in that man ner. By Lord Presidents direction the Comm'^ Names have been laid before the King in Council the 17. ult and the Order thereon has been drawn up and deliverd out but last night. In my next thou mayst expect a Copy of it. The Parliament are now sitting having begun their Sessions the ist Instant and herewith I send thee the Kings Speech and Commons Address. The apprehensions there was of a War seem all to be blown over and as for other News I refer to the Prints here inclosed, and remain with due Respects to thySelf and the Gentlemen of the Council and House of Representatives Their ffaithful ffriend Rich? Partridge If the Pariiament sh"' take in hand again this Ses sions the matter of the Iron' Bill as heretofore (as I believe they will) and I sh"* Joyn in opposing it, it will doubtless be attended with Considerable Expence. To GovT Wanton I02 Correspondence of the THE LORDS OF TRADE TO THE LORDS OF THE PRIVY COUNCIL.^ To the Right Honourable the Lords of the Committee of His Majestys most Honoble Privy Council. My Lords Pursuant to your Lordships Order of i'.' Instant We have considered of Proper Persons to be ap pointed Commissioners for marking out and Settling the Dividing Line between the Province of the Mas sachusets Bay and Rhode Island Eastward and for that Service We take leave to name Your Lordships the five Eldest Councillors of the three Neighbour ing Provinces namely Cadwallader Colden, Abraham Vanhorn PhiHp Livingston Archibald Kennedy and James De Lan- cey EsqT' for the Province of New York — John Hamilton John Wells John Reading Cor nelius Vanhorn and William Provost EsqT^ for the Province of New Jersey — William Skene William Shirriff Henry Cope Eras mus James Philipps and Otho Hamilton Esq? for the Province of Nova Scotia which last Gentleman We have Substituted in the place of Major Paul Masca- rine who was formerly left out by Your Lordships Order on a like Occasion because he had an Estate in the Province of the Massachusets Bay We take leave further to acquaint Your Lordships that we have been attended by the Agents of the said Provinces of the Massachusets Bay and Rhode 1 Enclosed in the preceding letter. Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 103 Island who have No Objection to the said Nomina tion. We are My Lords Your Lordships Most Obedient and Most humble Servants MONSON M Bladen R Plumer Whitehall DecemT 21st 1738 RICHARD partridge TO GOVERNOR WANTON. London 12 mo. the 12. 1738 Governor Wanton This is just to acquaint thee I have writ thee of the id'!' Inst by Cap! Newell to which I refer thee. We are now about geting the Commission or Order of the King in Council for constituting the Comm? for setling the Boundary line as fast as we can and when it is ready Shall send it thee Who am with respects Thy assured Friend R? Partridge To John Wanton Esq Governor of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations RICHARD PARTRIDGE TO GOVERNOR WANTON. London if mo. the 15. 173! Governor Wanton I writ thee last of the 5'!* Inst per Cap! Harrison who sailed through the Downs the Io'^ Inst; since which our Petition for an Order of Council to be issued instead of a Commissi to save charges (as I I04 Correspondence of the heretofore hinted to thee was intended to be done,) has been laid before the Lords Committee, but their Lordships did Not think it proper it sh'' pass — after that manner, — so that now there is no other way for us but by procuring a Commissi under the great Scale w"^*" my Solicitor tells me will amount to about ;^I35 sterl^ besides his trouble therein, which as we are the Complainants and consequently sue out the Commission we must advance, but then the Lords of the Council afterwards would certainly order the Mas sach'^ to pay one half of it ; and yesterday I went to Agent Wilks to know of him if he wo"* advance half the money for sueing out the Commiss" but could get no promise from him that he would, and there fore I judgd it most prudent first of all to give thee notice thereof in order for my further Instructions, before I laid out so considerable a Sum of money. The like Sum of ;^i35 I find has been laid out of Pocket by our SolT for New HampsT and he has not been able to get the half of it advanced for the other Province in to this day, tho' I am apt to think it will be paid in time. I send thee herewith a Copy of a Pet" ^ prepared in order to sue out a Commissi" with Articles an nexed suitable thereto which now must lye by a while in expectation of the Colonys answer Inclosed I also send thee my ace! w"" the Colony the Balh° whereof appears to be £<^if : 7 : i StT in my favour, and I doubt not of Sufficient Supplys from them as usual to enable me to carry on their affairs So w"" due Respects to thySelf and the Gentlemen 1 Not in the archives. Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 105 of the Council and Representatives I remain Thy ffaithfuU ffriend Rich? Partridge yesterday the Princess of Wales was deliv'! of another Son for a further ace' I refer to the inclosed Print RICHARD PARTRIDGE TO GOVERNOR WANTON. London 2* mo. the 10'.'' 1739 Governor Wanton I have had none of thy favours for a pretty while and having lately writ thee the needfull about the Colonys Affair refer thee thereto, this now comes to acquaint thee that there is like to be a Bill brought into Parliam! relating to Iron a Copy whereof I have obtained and Send it thee here inclosed, its thought it will pass this Sessions. alltho' some part of it is for encourageing the making of Iron in the Plantations, yet other parts of it will be prejudicial and therefore I was [at] once for opposing it, but could not find any were for joyn- ing with me, in as much as it is not by abundance so bad as the Bill that was prepard last year on that head, and so thought we had better let this pass as it is without opposition, than to run the hazard of hav ing an other imposed on us a great deal worse. I thought it my duty to give thee this early notice of it who am with due respects Thy assured Friend Rich? Partridge To John Wanton Esq Governor of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations io6 Correspondence of the RICHARD PARTRIDGE TO GOVERNOR WANTON. London 2? mo. 27. I739 Governor Wanton I writ thee of the 15. ult per Cap! Fones — to which I refer, this now serves chiefly to bring thee my Solicitor Paris's Bill for the Colony for what he has done hither to amounting to ;^ 128: 15 : 8 in part whereof I have pd him ^9-10-0. at several times W^ thou willt find I have chargd in the Colonies ace!, besides Counsel fees, so that there is yet due to him ^37: 15: 8. not doubting of being Supplyd with further remittances I remain Thy assured Friend Rich? Partridge I sent thee per Fones my ace! the Ballance whereof was then ;^94 : 7 : i in my favour To John Wanton. EsqT Governor of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations. GEORGE II. TO THE GOVERNOR AND COMPANY OF RHODE ISLAND. Trusty and Welbeloved, We greet you well. Whereas several unjust Seizures^ havebeen made, and Depredations carried on in the West Indies, by Spanish Guarda Costas, and Ships acting under the Commission of the King of Spain, or his Governors, contrary to the Treaties subsisting between Us and the Crown of Spain, and to the Law of Nations, to 1 See note on p. 88. Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 107 the great Prejudice of the lawfuU Trade and Com merce of our Subjects ; and many Cruelties, and Barbarities have been exercised on the Persons of such of Our Subjects, whose Vessels have been so seized by the said Spanish Guarda Costas ; And whereas frequent Complaint has been made to the Court of Spain of these unjust Practises, and no Sat isfaction, or Redress been procured ; And whereas a Convention,^ for making Reparation to Our Subjects for the Losses sustained by Them, on account of the unjust Seizures and Captures abovementioned, was concluded between Us and the King of Spain, on the 14th Day of January last N. S., by which Convention it was stipulated. That a certain Sum of Money should be paid, at London, within a Term specified in the said Convention, as a Ballance due, on the Part of Spain, to the Crown and Subjects of Great Britain ; which Term did expire on the Twenty Fifth Day of May last, and the Payment of the said Sum, agreed by the said Convention, has not been made, according to the Stipulation for that Purpose ; by which means the Convention abovementioned has been manifestly violated, and broke by the King of Spain, and Our Subjects remain without any Satisfac tion, or Reparation for the many, great, and grievous Losses sustained by Them ; We have thought fit, for the Vindicating the Honour of Our Crown, and for Procuring Reparation, and Satisfaction for Our in jured Subjects, to order Reprisals to be made upon the Crown and Subjects of Spain. And We do therefore, by vertue of these Presents, authorise and 1 For the details of ttiis Convention, see tbe next document in the series. io8 Correspondence of the empower you to issue forth, and grant Commis sions of Marque, and Reprisal to Any of Our loving Subjects, or others, who shall apply to You for the same, and whom you shall deem fitly qualified in that behalf, for Arming and Fitting out private Ships of War, for the Apprehending, Seizing, and Taking the Ships, Vessels, and Goods belonging to the King of Spain, his Vassals, and Subjects, or Any inhabiting within His Countries, Territories, and Dominions in the West Indies : Provided always. That before any such Commission, or Commissions, be issued forth. Security be given upon every such Commission, as hath been used in such Cases. And you shall insert in every Commission, to be so granted by You, all such Clauses, and give such Directions and Instruc tions to the Person, or Persons, to whom you shall grant such Commission, as have been usual, in Cases of the like Nature:^ And for so doing This shall be your Warrant. And so We bid you Farewell. Given at Our Court at Kensington the Fifteenth Day of June 1739. in the Thirteenth Year of Our Reign. By His Majesty's Command. HoLLES Newcastle.^ To Our Trusty and Welbeloved the Governor and Company of Our Colony of Rhode Island and Providence in America : 1 In the General Assembly of August, 1739, it was " Voted and resolved, that His Honor, the Governor, grant all such commissions, in behalf of this colony, to private men of war against Spain, and the subjects thereof, &c. as he shall think needful and necessary, pursuant to His Majesty's Warrant." Col. Rec. of R. I., IV. 561. 2 Secretary of State for the Southem Department. Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 109 THE DUKE OF NEWCASTLE TO THE GOVERNOR AND COM PANY OF RHODE ISLAND. Whitehall June is* 1739. Gentlemen, As It was Stipulated by the Convention, concluded between His Majesty and the King of Spain, on the 14'? of January last, N. S. That the Sum of ninety five thousand Pounds Sterling should be paid at London, within the Term of four Months, to be reck oned from the Day of the Exchange of the Ratifi cations of the said Convention, as a Ballance due, on the Part of Spain, to the Crown and Subjects of Great Britain ; and as the said Term of four Months, from the Exchange of the Ratifications of the Con vention, did expire on the 25th Day of May last, and the Payment of the said Sum of Ninety five thou sand Pounds sterling, agreed by the said Convention, has not been made, according to the Stipulation for that purpose, by which means the Convention above- mentioned has been manifestly violated and broke, and His Majesty's Subjects remain without any Satisfaction or Reparation for the many, great and grievous Losses sustained by Them, His Majesty has thought Himself obliged to take such Measures, on His Part, as are necessary for the Support of the Honour and Dignity of His Crown, the Security of the just Rights of His Subjects, and the Good and Safety of His Dominions, and has therefore ordered the Ships and Effects of the King of Spain, and His Subjects, to be seized and taken wherever They shall be met with ; with which I am commanded to no Correspondence of the acquaint You, that You may cause the same to be made known in all Places under Your Government, to the End that His Majesty's Subjects in those Parts may be upon their Guard, to prevent any Mis chief, they might otherwise suffer from the Span iards, in Revenge for the Measures, which His Maj esty is obliged to take, to do Himself and His Sub jects Justice ; and that They may, in their several Stations, annoy the Subjects of Spain in the best Manner They are able. And I send You herewith, by the King's Order, His Majesty's Warrant,^ under His Royal Sign Manual, authorizing and empower ing You to grant Commissions of Marque and Re prisal, for arming and fitting out private Ships of War, against the Ships, Goods, and Subjects of the King of Spain. And It is His Majesty's Pleasure, That you should be very rigorous and severe, in preventing any Ammunition, or Stores of any kind, from being carried to the Spaniards ; and You are to use all proper Methods, that may be most effectual for this Purpose. I am Gentlemen Your most obedient humble Servant Holles Newcastle Governor and Company of the Colony of Rhode Island. 1 See the preceding document. Colonial Governors of Rhode Island in THE LORDS OF TRADE TO THE GOVERNOR AND COMPANY OF RHODE ISLAND. Whitehall July the s'.' 1739. Gentlemen, We send you herewith Copies of two Addresses from the House of Lords,^ and likewise of two Ad dresses from the House of Commons^ to His Ma jesty, of the I3'^ of the last Month, and desire that you will for[th]with prepare and transmit to Us as soon as possible, the several Accents therein re quired that the same may be laid before the respec tive Houses the next meeting of Parliament. So We bid you heartily farewell, and are Your very loving Friends and humble Servants, MONSON T Pelham R Plumer Ja : Brudenell. Hon"^ the GovT and Company of Rhode Island. ADDRESS OF THE HOUSE OF LORDS TO THE CROWN.^ Die Mercurii, 13? Junii 1739. Ordered by the Lords Spiritual and Temporal in Parliament Assembled, That an humble Address be presented to His Majesty, That His Majesty will be graciously pleased to give Directions to the proper Officers, That an Account be prepared, and laid 1 See the next two documents. 2 Not in the archives. 8 Enclosed in letter from the Lords of Trade, of July 5, 1739. 112 Correspondence of the before this House at their next Sessions, what was the Amount of the Paper Bills, or Bills of Credit, which by virtue of any Act or Acts of Assembly Subsisted or passed in Payment in any of the Brit ish Colonies or Plantations in the Year 1700. And also an Account of the Amount of what Paper Bills, or Bills of Credit of any species, or Kinds, have by Virtue of any Act or Acts been created or issued in any of the said Colonies or Plantations since the Year 1 700, with the Amount of the Value in Money of Great Britain, of such Bills at the respective Times of their creating and issuing; and what Pro vision was made thereby for the sinking or dis charging of any such Paper Bills, or Bills of Credit ; Together with an Account of the Amount of the Bills, that have been sunk or discharged in pursu ance thereof, and also of the Bills subsisting or pass ing in Payment at this Time in any of the said Colonies and Plantations with the Amount of the Value in Money of Great Britain, of such Bills ; dis tinguishing each species, or Kind of Paper Bills or Bills of Credit and each Colony or Plantation. sign'd Wm Cowper, Cler. Parliamentor. ADDRESS OF THE HOUSE OF LORDS TO THE CROWN.^ Die Mercurii, 13" Junii 1739. Ordered by the Lords Spiritual and Temporal in Pariiament Assembled That an humble Address be 1 Enclosed in letter from the Lords of Trade, of July 5, 1739. Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 113 presented to His Majesty, That His Majesty will be graciously pleased to give Directions to the proper Officers, That an Account be prepared and laid before this House at their next Sessions, at what Rates all Gold and Silver Coins were accounted, received, taken or paid, and Gold and Silver were Purchased at, or Sold for per Ounce, in any of the British Colonies and Plantations in America, in the Years 1700, 1710, 1720, 1730, and at what Rates Gold and Silver Coins are accounted, received, taken or paid, and Gold and silver are Purchased at, or sold for per Ounce at this Time in such Colonies and Plantations, distinguishing each Colony and Planta tion. sign'd W¥ Cowper, Cler. Parliamentor. RICHARD PARTRIDGE TO GOVERNOR WANTON. London 5'? mo. 10. 1739 Govr Wanton I have had none of thy favours for a considerable time but I hope I shall by the next Ship that arrives from New England. This now I write at a venture to meet a Ship at Dover bound to New York from Holland and comes to acquaint thee that the present posture of Publick Affairs seems to be upon a Crisis tending to War which I take to be what is generaly apprehended will ensue, and that its thought will break out in a little time between this Kingdom and Spain with whom France will undoubtedly Joyn (unless any 114 Correspondence of the thing unforeseen sh^ intervene). I judg'd it therefore need full to give thee some hints of it, great prepa rations has been for some time making here, a con siderable Number of Men of War are fitting out, a Strict Press for Seamen, and an Embargo on Ships from going out w'i'' has lasted already abo! 3 weeks and when it will be off we know not. If a War sh'! be the Consequence its talkt that it will begin first by our making Reprisals some where on the Spaniards in the West Indies or by Admiral Haddock in the Mediterean, and this Resolution seems to be taken by our Ministry in as much as the Spaniards delay or refuse to comply with the Terms of the Convention on their parts, no doubt they have been encourag'd therein and Matters fomented un doubtedly by the French. They say the Tartar Man is lately gone to Amer ica which probably carry some Instructions about these Affairs to the British Governors on the Conti nent, for the rest I refer to the inclosed prints and remain with due respects. Thy assured Friend R. Partridge To John Wanton Esq. Governor of Rhode Island and Providence Plan tations Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 1 1 5 JOSIAH WILLARD TO MESSRS. PETER BOURS, GODFREY MAL BONE, AND JAMES MARTIN.^ Gentlemen, I have herewith inclosed a Copy of the Vote of our General Assembly for appointing Commis? to treat and transact with Commiss? on the part of your Government on the Affair of the Boundaries. You will please to inform me or Coll. Dudley (the Senior CommisT for this Service) of the Result of your Assembly hereon. I am Gentlemen Your most obedient Humble Servant J. Willard Boston July 16. 1739. Mess? Peter Bours, Godfrey Mallbone, and Ja. Martin. RICHARD PARTRIDGE TO GOVERNOR WANTON. London 6 mo. the 10. 1739 Worthy ffriend The foregoing is Copy of my last to thee since which I have not reed any letter from thee so have the less to say now : our Affair relating to the Gore of Land in dispute lyes quite still till We have fur ther Instructions, w'='' I expect to receive from thee per [the] first Ship from N E and then I shall not faile to pursue them in the best manner I am capa ble off. 1 A committee appointed in May, 1739, " to write to the General Court of the Pro vince of the Massachusetts Bay " concerning " the affair of the gore of land in contro versy." Col. Rec. ofR. I., IV. 557. ii6 Correspondence of the I herewith send thee Copy of a Bill for the fur ther enforcing the Sugar Act that was bro' into the last Sessions of Parliament but it was dropt and did not pass, w'^'' as I take it wo"* have been of pernicious Consequence to the Plantations : whether it will be revivd or not next Parliam' we know not, however I judgd it proper to acquaint the Colony with it to let them see what Some People here aim at ; there was a Law relating to the Sugar Trade did pass which I also here send thee. Thou willt see by the Votes herewith sent that the Parliament are for having an ace' of the state of Bills of Credit in the Plantations ready to be laid before them next Sessions w"'' its probable they call for in order to do something by way of Regulation and very likely thou willt receive a letter from the Lords of Trade (among others) thereabout.^ As to War it is not actualy broke out yet and when any proclamation for that End will be Issued is uncertain after all, tho' Great Preparations are still continueing to be made, time must discover the Event, for the rest I referr to the prints I here send thee and remain with due respects to thy self and the Gentlemen of the Council and House of Repre sentatives Their ffaithfuU friend Rich? Partridge To John Wanton, Esq Governor of Rhode Island and Providence Plan tations 1 See letter on p. 120. Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 1 1 7 RICHARD PARTRIDGE TO GOVERNOR WANTON. London 7';? the 5. 1739 Governor Wanton As the Publick affairs pretty much draws the At tention of People respecting a War at this juncture, so I judgd it necessary now and then to advise thee of occurrances of that kind ; and to send thee the inclosed Prints for thy information. The Spanish Ambassador is now gone away home for Madrid having left behind him his Masters Manifesto (w'^'" is published here) to justifie their Conduct touching the Breach of the late Convention, the fault whereof they wo'' throw intirely upon the English, but People here seem to think his Arguments are weak, frivilous and easily refuted. And whether or no our Ministry will ¦ think it worth their while to answer it is un certain, and now a War that is a Sea_ War seems unavoidable, preparations for which have been mak ing here for a considerable time so that the English have got the whip hand of both the other Powers they are to be engag'd against, for the rest I refer to the Prints here with sent and remain Thy assured Friend Rich? Partridge Our Ministry by their putting at sev' times so large a Number of Men of War in Commiss" seem to be vigorously intent in pushing on for obtaining satis faction some how or other and in the mean time for protecting our Trade at Sea also. the 11'?: 1739 Since the foregoing I have reed thine dated 13 July, together with a Packet of Papers for the Agent ii8 Correspondence of the of Connec! which I shall deliver him accordingly and observe thy further directions thereabout when he is recov"! of his illness which he has been lately seiz'd with. I note some endeavours are like to be used for accoramodating the affair w"" the Massach? if that could be done there it w'' to be sure save a great deal of Expence, but if it sh'' not take Effect I shall readily pursue Such further Instructions in be half of the Colony as I shall receive from thee who am with kind respects Thy faithfull friend R? Partridge I send thee the King of Spains Manifesto and some more prints in a pack' to B. Bagnal to forw"' to thee I take kindly the favour the Colony has done me in honouring my late draught of One hund'' Pounds To John Wanton EsqT Governor of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations. RICHARD PARTRIDGE TO GOVERNOR WANTON. London 8'." the 5. 1739 Got ¦ Wanton My last to thee was of the 1 1'!> ult acknowledging the rec' of thine dated the 13 July last with the Papers relating to Connecticut for their Agent Wilks, but the Indisposition with which he has been seizd of late prevents my attending him, when he recovers I shall not be wanting to pursue thy directions there about. Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 119 I note some Overtures have been made with the Massachusetts about accommodating the disputed Boundaries, relating to the Gore of Land, if that co'' be brought to bear it would Save the Colony a pretty deal of Expence here, but if not when I receive thy Orders I shall proceed in the best manner I can for the Colonys Interest which they may be assured off as I have hetherto done. As to publick News Preparations for War are vigorously carried on still, Our Minister Keen lately returnd home from Spain, France not yet declared against us neither is it believd they will in hast, for it cannot be suppos'd they are in any degree so far prepar'd as we are for a Rupture, But will doubtless again try their Skill to bring about an Accommoda tion by way of Mediation which hetherto our Court don't seem much to regard, judging that either they may have some Sinister View in it or that they are naturaly so attach't to Spain that we can expect only an amuzement and no good from their Interposition ; Yet if there be any probability of an accommoda tion its possible it may be rather expected now that there is Peace lately concluded between the Turks and Russians as well as between the former and the Germans, for that as the Russians are look'd upon as our good Allys, its not unlikely (but if it sh'' be required by the English) they wo'' afford us a consid erable Assistance ag^' the French, and that consider ation wo? rationaly keep them still back from break ing with us — for the rest I refer to the Inclosed Prints and remain w"" due Respects to thy Self and I20 Correspondence of the the Gentlem" of the Council and House of Repre sentatives Thy ffaithfuU Friend R? Partridge To John Wanton EsqT Governor of Rhode Island and Providence Plan tations CIRCULAR LETTER TO THE GOVERNORS OF MARYLAND, CON NECTICUT, AND RHODE ISLAND. [1739] Sirs We send You herewith inclosed the Copy of an Address of the House of Commons to His Majesty in the last Session of ParUament by which You will perceive how much they apprehend the Commerce of Great Britain to have been Affected by the large and frequent Emissions of Paper Currency in His Majestys Colonys in America in which Rhode Island has had too large a Share ^ (the words Scored under to be inserted only in the Letter to the GovJ of Rhode Island) and His Majesty in pursuance of the said Address having sent Circular Instructions to the several Colonys more immediately under His Government not to pass any more Bills for the issuing of Paper Money without a Clause inserted therein, as proposed by the said Address, to Suspend the Execution till His Ma jestys Pleasure shall be Signified thereupon. We think it proper to acquaint You therewith and at CopT ^"'"'*^''' ^'""^ "^ ^ '"°- "' '^39. This document is unsigned and marked Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 121 the same time to Admonish and Advise you to pay all due regard to His Majestys Intentions and to the sense of the House of Commons upon this Occasion. So we bid you heartily farewell and are Your very Loving Friends and humble Servants RICHARD PARTRIDGE TO GOVERNOR WANTON. London 8*" the 26'.": 1739 Goif. Wanton I lately writ thee per Cap! Seabrook direct to Rhode Isl? this I write now at a Venture to the Downs and Just comes to bring thee one of our News Papers and Proclamation of War ag'.' Spain which was pub- lishd here the 23'! Inst; as to France People here differ in their opinion whether we ShaU have a War with them or not, time alone must discover it : I am with respects Thy assured Fr'' R? Partridge THE DUKE OF NEWCASTLE TO THE GOVERNOR AND COM PANY OF RHODE ISLAND. Whitehall 29* Oct! 1739 Sir, I am to acquaint you, that on Friday the I9'^ In stant a Great Council was held at Kensington, where His Majesty approved and signed a Declaration of War against Spain, and ordered, that the same should be published on Tuesday the 23'' Instant by the Heralds at Arms, in the usual Places, and with 122 Correspondence of the the accustomd Formalitys on the like Occasions, which was done accordingly ; And I am commanded to send you a printed Copy of the said Declaration, and to signify to you His Majesty's Pleasure, that you cause it to be proclaimed in the Places under your Government, that His Subjects having this Notice may take care to prevent any Mischief, which otherwise they might suffer from the Enemy, and do their Duty in their several Stations to annoy the Sub jects of Spain ; And His Majesty would have you be very rigorous and severe in preventing any Ammu nition or Stores of any kind from being carried to them ; And you are to use aU proper Methods that may be most effectual for this Purpose. I am. Sir, Your most obedient humble Servant HoLLES Newcastle. GOVERNOR wanton TO GOVERNOR BELCHER. Newport 12* November 1739 This waits upon You by Mess? Goulding and Bren- ton Two of our Colony Trustees who are now going to Salem Court to be Evidences against the Persons indicted to that Court for Counterfeiting the Bills in imitation of the true ^5 Bills of this Colony, and JDcfore their Return design likewise for Portsmouth in New Hampshire upon the same Account if not too great a Distance between the Two Courts And if upon any future Occasion there should be a neces sity of one or more of the signers of our true Bills Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 123 to attend upon a Trial We shall always be ready to comply therewith. I am desired by our General Assembly to acquaint Your Exceh^' That a Vote is pass'd ' directing our Agent in Conjunction with the others strenuously to oppose at the next Session of Parliament the new additional Act relating to the Sugar Colonies in the W. Indies, which if pass'd will prove extreamly prejudicial and hurtful to the Trade of all the Northern Colonies, and therefore desire That Your Excel".'' wiU please to move it to Your Gen! Court That proper Instructions might be given for that purpose Being with due Respects Your ExceP.'''' most assured &c To his Excel'? Jon'^ Belcher Esq &c GOVERNOR wanton TO RICHARD PARTRIDGE. Newport 12* 9 Mo. 1739 Respected Friend Rich^ Partridge Sometime since I signed a Letter with others as a Committee, with a Remittance to Thee in Gold and Silver to the Value of ;i^i50 Str for the taking out the King's Commission to determine our Eastern Boundaries by Commissioners here and I do now also inform thee that I have rec? thy several Letters and Packets particularly that relating to the Bill prepared for an additional Act to be pass'd relating to the Sugar Colonies : Which is conceived will be very prejudicial to our Trade here and other Northern 1 See Col. Rec. ofR. I., IV. 56a. 124 Correspondence of the Colonies and therefore a Vote was passed by the General Assembly at their last Sessions desiring me to direct Thee strenuously to oppose the Same and to use thy utmost Endeavours to prevent it being passed into a Law.^ I received lately a Packet forwarded by thee from the Board of Trade, wherein was inclosed The Votes of the House of Lords and House of Commons to address his Majesty relating our Paper Currency, And accordingly received in the Same Packet an order from the Board of Trade ^ to remit home the State of our several Emissions and what has been called in and sunk thereof and likewise the Rate of Gold and Silver per oz at several Periods. The General Assembly think it very Strange that such Votes should be pass'd and an order sent which so greatly concerns the Colony and not one Word from Thee What was the Occasion of or what induced Them to make such an Enquiry^ I am &c. To Rich? Partridge GOVERNOR WANTON TO JOSEPH TALCOTT.* Newport 12^ Nov! 1739 I lately rec? a Letter from our Agent wherein he informs me that He had received the Packet We sent him with the Copy of the Case &c relating [to] 1 Col. Rec OfR I., IV. 562. 2 See letters on pp. „,, ix.. » See Partridge's answer of 11 mo. (January) 2, 1738. * Talcott was governor of Connecticut from 1724 to 1741. Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 125 Masons Affair.' And I am likewise to acquaint Your Honour That I am desired by Our General Assembly to let you know That at their last Ses sions They pass'd a Vote directing our Agent (in Conjunction with others) strenuously to oppose at the next Sessions of Parliament the new additional Act relating to the Sugar Colonies in the West Indies which if pass'd will prove extreamly Preju dicial and HurtfuU to the Trade of all the Northern Colonies, And therefore desire That You will please to move it to Your General Assembly that proper Instructions may be given for that purpose. I have signified the Same to his Excel"?' Governour Belcher and am with Respects Hon^.'* ST &c To Joseph Talcott Esq &c RICHARD PARTRIDGE TO GOVERNOR WANTON. London ii'." mo. the 2" i7jj Goif Wanton This I write at a venture to the Downs to meet a Ship there for Boston, and is to acknowledge the receipt of thine of 1 2'^ 9 mo. last ; "^ The Colony may be assured of my zeal and ffaithfulness in pursueing their orders w"" respect [of] geting out the Commis sion for determining their Eastern Boundaries with 1 The reference is probably to a document concerning the choice of a Sachem by the Mohegan Indians. This paper, which had been in the custody of one Samuel Mason, and was by him transferred to the files of the Court of Enquuy, had mysteriously dis appeared. 2 See p. 123. 1 26 Correspondence of the all the Expedition I can, and advise thee the needfull as we proceed. As to the Bill prepard last Sessions of Varliam^ for further enforcing the Sugr Act I dont find it has yet been touch'd on this Sessions, but if it sh'' be revivd I shall use my endeavours for pre venting its being passd. whether the other North ern Colonys wiU joyn with me in the oppisition I know not, but I shall try to bring some of them in to bear part of the Charge. I note thou hast reed from the Lords of Trade the Votes of Pariiament relating to Paper Currency and also an ord' from the Bo? of Trade to remit to them the State of your Several Emissions &c* And if thou lookst over my letter of the 10. 6 mo.' last thou willt see there I writ the foll« Paragraff (w-^*" I think went much about the time of the afores'' letter of the Bo? of Trade.) " Thou willt see by the Votes herewith sent that " the Parliam' are for having an ace' of the State of " BiUs of Cred! in the Plantations ready to be laid " before them next Sessions, which its probable they " call for in order to do something by way of Regu- " lation and very likely thou willt receive a letter " from the Lords of Trade (among others) there- " about. the s? Votes were passd at the Tail or towards the conclusion of the last Sessions of Parliam!, and it was not very long after that I advisd thee of it and sent the Votes. We can give no reason how or for what reason they were stirrd up to do it unless it proceeded originaly from the L?^ of Trade who are 1 See letter of August lo, X739. Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 127 also Members of Parliam! the Matter was general, and their orders Issued in consequence of those Votes doubtless were gen' to all the Plant* Governm" where there are BUls of Credit, and letters writ I beleive accordingly to the Gov' ; but hitherto I don't observe any thing has been done in it this Ses sions of Parliam! If they sh'' take it in hand I shaU be upon the Watch and take Such Measures as are Suitable and give thee due notice thereof I am with due regards Thy assured Friend Rich? Partridge To John Wanton EsqT Governor of the Colony of Rhoad Island and Providence Plantations THE DUKE OF NEWCASTLE TO THE GOVERNOR AND COMPANY OF RHODE ISLAND. Whitehall. Janry5'!' i7ij. Gentlemen, His Majesty having thought fit to declare War against Spain, and being determined, by all possible Means, to distress and annoy the Spaniards, in the most effectual Manner, and particularly by making an Attempt upon some of their most considerable Settlements in the West Indies, The King has been pleased for that Purpose, to order a large Body of Troops, under the Command of My Lord Cath cart,' a Major General of His Majesty's Forces, to go from hence, with a sufficient Convoy of Men of 1 Lord Cathcart died in 1740, and was succeeded by Brigadier-General Wentworth. 128 Correspondence of the War, to a proper Place in the West Indies, to be appointed for that Purpose, there to be joined by the Squadron under the Command of Vice Admiral Vernon,^ now in the West Indies ; and by such a Number of Troops, as may be raised in His Majesty's Colonies, and Islands in America. As It has been represented to the King, That a very considerable Number of Men may be easily had, upon proper Encouragement, in the British Plantations, and particularly in His Majesty's Col onies on the Continent of America, to serve in Con junction with the regular Troops to be sent from hence, I am to signify to You His Majesty's Plea sure, That You should forthwith make the proper Dispositions, for Raising as many Men, as You shall be able to procure within your Government : And, as the King intends. That the Troops, to be raised in America, should be commanded by Col? Spots- wood ; The whole to be however, after They shall have joined the regular Troops, under the Command of My Lord Cathcart, General and Commander in Chief of All His Majesty's Troops, sent to, or raised in, America, (with which I have, by this Occasion, acquainted Colonel Spotswood) It is His Majesty's Pleasure, That You should confer, or correspond, with Colonel Spotswood, if You have an Opportunity, upon every Thing, that may relate to the Perform ance of this Service. 1 Edward Vernon, promoted vice-admiral, July 9, 1739, and sent to capture the Spanish colonies in the West Indies. The expedition resulted, on November 22, 1739, in the accomplishment, verbatim, of Vernon's boast, that he could capture Porto Bello with six ships. Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 129 Colonel Blakeney,' who is appointed Adjutant General in this Expedition, will set out from hence, as soon as possible, with His Majesty's Letters, and Authorities to You, and the other Governors of His Majesty's Colonies on the Continent of America, for making the said Levies ; and with the King's more particular Instructions, and Directions, relating to this Matter. In the mean Time, The King has thought proper. That I should give You this previ ous Notice, that You may be making the necessary Dispositions, in order to facilitate, as soon as pos sible, the Raising the Troops. Colonel Blakeney will carry with Him a considerable Number of Arms, Some Samples of Cloathing for the Soldiers, and what Money, or Credit shall be judged requisite for the Performance of this Service. It is His Majesty's Intention, to give all proper Encouragement to the new Levies, by Ordering Them to be Supplyed with Arms, and a proper Cloathing, and to be paid by His Majesty ; with an Assurance of their coming in for their Share of any Booty, that may be taken from the Enemy, and of their being sent back to their respective Habitations, when the Service shall be over, unless any of Them shall de sire to settle Themselves elsewhere. His Majesty will order, to be Sent by Colonel Blakeney, a Number of blank Commissions to be given by the Governors, to the Officers, that are to command the Troops under Colonel Spotswood. 1 William, Lord Blakeney, made colonel in 1737, and sent to Cartagena, with rank of brigadier-general, in 1741. He was lieutenant-governor of Minorca in 1756 at the time when, after an heroic and hopeless defence of seventy days, that island was taken by the French. 130 Correspondence of the The King has not thought proper to confine You to any particular Number of Men to be raised within your Government, His Majesty depending upon your Care and Zeal for His Service, That You will pro cure as many, as You possibly can. You will consider, how much the Time presses, and will therefore use the utmost Expedition in mak ing your Preparations. It is hoped. That My Lord Cathcart may be able to sail from hence, in April, or May next; And consequently You will take care. That the Troops, to be raised within your Govern ment, may be ready to be transported, in Time, to the Place, that shall be appointed for the general Rendez-vous ; with which Col? Blakeney will acquaint You, as well as with every Thing else, that may be ne cessary for your further Information and Instruction. You will be considering, in what manner to pro vide Transports, and Provisions; And even, if it be necessary. You will secure Them out of hand, for such a Number of Men, as. You shall judge. You may be able to get within your Government ; Or ; You will correspond with any of the Governors of the neigh bouring Colonies, relating to this Matter, in such Manner, as You shall think proper. I am persuaded, I need not say any Thing to in duce You to use your utmost Care and Diligence in an Affair of this Importance ; And for the Promot ing the Success of a Service, in which the Honor of His Majesty's Crown, and the Interest of His Sub jects (especially Those residing in America) are so essentially concerned. The many Injuries, and Cruel ties, which the Inhabitants of the British Plantations Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 131 have suffered from the Violence, and Depredations of the Spaniards, wUl, I doubt not, be an additional Motive to engage all His Majesty's faithfull Subjects there, to exert Themselves with an uncommon Zeal, on this Occasion. I am. Gentlemen Your most obedient humble Servant Holles Newcastle P. S. Tho' Colonel Blakeney will be dispatched, as soon as possible, with His Majesty's more particu lar Instructions, and Directions to You, Yet, That no Time may be lost. It is His Majesty's Pleasure, That immediately upon the Receipt of this Letter, You should Issue a Proclamation, in the proper form. Inviting His Majesty's Subjects, within your Govern ment, chearfuUy to inlist in this Service, and assuring Them of a proper Encouragement for that Purpose. Holles Newcastle Governor, and Company of the Colony of Rhode Island. THE GOVERNOR AND COMPANY OF RHODE ISLAND TO THE LORDS COMMITTEE OF THE PRIVY COUNCIL.^ To the R. Hon".' the Lords of the Com*'.' of His Ma jesty's most Hon''^ Privy Councill. For Plantation Affairs. The humble Petition of the Governor and Com pany of His Majesty's Colony of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations. 1 See letter of Partridge's, dated ist mo. (March) 20, 1730. This document is not dated, but from an allusion in a letter of Partridge, written 12 mo. (February) 6, 1745, it is thought that January 19, 1740, may be the date at which it was written. 132 Correspondence of the Sheweth That a former humble Petition was pre sented by your Peti? to His Majesty in CouncUl in the Year 1734 praying a Settlem! of a very old Controversy, about the Eastern Bounds of the Said Colony, towards his Majestys Province of the Mas sachusets Bay, which Said Petition is by his Maj'^' most Gracious Referrence now depending before Your Lordships. That His Majesty has been pleased, by your Lord ships advice, to make Several Royal Orders in Coun cill, during the Course of this Affair, particularly, One of the so'!' of NovT last, whereby His Majesty ordered, that Commiss? Should be chosen, out of the Neighbouring Provinces for that Service, and that the Inhabitants of the Said Province and Colony Should in the mean time. Continue in the Peaceable Possession of their Property, without Molestation on Either Side, And another Order in Co!' of the i f^ Janry last, whereby his Majesty has been pleased to approve and order that 1 5 Gentlemen, therein named, Shall be the Commiss? for marking out and Settling the Boundarys, Between the Said Province of the Massachusets Bay and the Colony of Rhode Island Eastward, But no Comml hath Yet Issued under the Great Seal for authorising Such Comiss? to mark out and Settle the Said Boundarys, nor hath the particular Clauses to be Conteined in Such Comm? been hith erto Settled. Wherefore, Youi* Petitioners (with the most humble duty and deferrence have hereunto Annexed a Pro posal of the Several Clauses Similar (So far as re- Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 133 late to the Present Case) to those which were con teined in the last Comm" issued in a like Instance, which are most humbly Submitted to your Lordships Consideration And most humbly pray your Lordships That the Agent for the Mass? Bay may be required to attend Your Lordships at Some Short day to declare his Objections (if any he hath) to all or any the Clauses to be Conteined in Such Comm" And that the whole Charge of the Comm" and the Execution of it and of the Comm? and of their Clarks and Officers, may be ordered to be borne in Equal Moietys between the Said Colony and Province, Or to afford Your Petitioners Such other ReUef, and in Such other manner, as to Your Lordships great Wisdom Shall Seem meet And Your Petitioners Shall ever pray &c I. Whereas a dispute hath been long Subsisting between his Majestys Province of the Mass* Bay and his Colony of Rhode Island in America, relating to the Eastern Boundarys of the Said Colony towards the Said Province. 2 His Majesty therefore doth nominate author ise and appoint Cadwallader Colden, Abr? Vanhorn, Philip Livingston, Archbald Kennedy, and James de Lancey Esq?, of the Province of New York, John Hamilton, John Wells, John Reading, Cornelius Vanhorn, and W? Provost Esq?, of the Province of New Jersey, and W"? Skene, W? Shirreff, Henry Cope, Erasmus James Philips and Otho Hamilton Esq? of the Province of Nova Scotia, Or any five or more of them, to be his Majestys Commiss? for Set- 134 Correspondence of the tling adjusting and determining the Boundarys of the Said Colony, Eastwards in dispute as aforesaid. 3 His Majestys Will and Pleasure therefore is that the Said Comm? do repair by the first Con venient Opportunity, to the Town of Providence within the Said Colony, being most Conveniently Scituated for that Purpose and there hold their first Meeting on the 2o'^ day of SeptemT which ShaU be in the Year of Our Lord 1739 From which day and any future days of Adjournment, they may adjourn to Such Time and times as may be most Convenient for them. 4 That in Case 5 of the Comm? Shall not be pre sent on the Said 2o'^ day of Septem"^ or on any other day of Adjournment, Then Such, or a Majority of Such of them as Shall be present. Shall and may adjourn the further Execution of this Commission in manner aforesaid. 5 That at their first meeting they do make Choice of One or more Clark or Clarks to enter their min utes and proceedings, as also of One or more Skilful persons to prepare dr'.' or Plans of the Country or Boundarys, as there ShaU be from time to time Occasion 6 That they do administer to Such Clarks, or other persons as they Shall employ on Oath (Or if they shall be of the People CaUed Quakers an Af firm?) for the due and faithful Execution of their Trusts. 7 That of the Comm? present at any Meeting, he who is first named in the List of Comm? Shall preside at Such Meeting, and Shall issue out the necessary Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 135 Sumons, for Such Witnesses as Either Party Shall require, 8 That the Said Comm? do use all Convenient dispatch in this Affair 9 That all determinations be made by a Majority of the Comm? who Shall be present at the respective Meetings, provided there Shall be then present 5 or more of the Said Commiss? 10 That in Case either the Said Province of the Mass? Bay, or the Said Colony of Rhode Island, Shall neglect to send to the Comm? at the first day of Meeting of the Comm?, the Names and Places of abode of Two of their Publick Officers residing in the respective Province and Colony, On Either of whom or at whose Place of Abode, any Notices Sumons or Final Judgem! of the Said Comm? may be Served or left. And in Case Either the Said Province, or the Said Colony, Shall neglect to send to the Said Comm? at the first day of meeting of the Comm? a plain and full State in Writing of the demands or Pretensions of the Said Province and Colony, respectively, whene and in what Places the Boundarys of the Said Colony, Eastwards ought to begin, and what Courses, and with what Variation, and in what manner, and how farr the Same ought to Run (to the End that Copys thereof may be mutu ally Exchanged in order to prevent any unnecessary delay, and that Each party may Come fully prepared). Then in Either of those Cases the Said Comm? or any 5 or more of them, do proceed Exparte. 1 1 That no Witness or Witnesses be aUow'd of by the Comm? to give Evidence, but Such as Shall 136 Correspondence of the be Sworn (or being of the People Called Quakers, Shall take a Solemn Affirm?) before the Comm? in open Court, w* Oath or Afiirm? the Comm? or any 5 or more of them are hereby impowered to Admin ister. 12 That all Interrogatorys and Questions which Shall be put to Such Witnesses before the Comm? Shall be Sett down in Writing and that the whole of what Such Witnesses ShaU offer to the Comm? Shall also be Sett down in Writing by the Said Clark or Clarks, in the presence of the Comm? and of the Respective Witnesses, and that the Same be read over to and Signed by the Respective Wit nesses. 13 That either party may cross Examine any of the other partys Witnesses And that all Such Ex aminations and cross Examinations be taken pri- vately before the Comm" and their Clarks, but that neither of the partys or any of their Agents, Shall be present at the Same. 14 That the Comm? ShaU appoint Such time as they Shall find reasonable within which all the Witnesses on Each Side, Shall be produced to be Examined and that when the Witnesses Shall be examined, the Comm? Shall direct Public? of the Examinations, and Either party Shall be at Liberty to take out Copys of the whole Examinations and Cross Examinations on both Sides. 15 That after the Copys of Such Examinations and Cross Examinations Shall be ready for Each party the Comm? Shall then appoint a day for giv ing Judgment which day ShaU not be less then 10 Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 137 days, nor more then 30 days after the time that Each party may have out the Copys of the depositions unless the partys Shall jointly agree on any further or other time, as more Convenient for the Comm? and Themselves 16 That after Public? no new or further Evidence Shall be Received from Either Side. 17 That Entrys be made of all Charters, Grants, deeds. Evidences, Proofs, and Plans Received by the Comm? in this affaire and also of all the Comm? pro ceedings and Resolutions throughout the Same, and that Such Plans Maps or dr? of the Boundary lines as Shall be agreed upon by the Comm? be annexed to and made part of the Comm? determination 18 Z'/^fl/ when the Comm? Shall have made their final determina? and Signed the Same, A Copy thereof Shall be forthwith Sent to Such publick Offi cer or Officers in the said Province and Colony respectively together with Notice of another Meet ing, to be held by the Comm? att the distance of Six Weeks or at Such further reasonable time, not Exceeding 3 Calendar Months, as the Comm? Shall appoint. 19 That at Such future Meeting, the Said Pro vince and the Said Colony respectively or Either of them, who Shall find themselves aggrieved, may Enter their Appeal to his Majesty in his Privy Coun cill with a declaration what Part of the determin? of the Comm? they respectively abide by or appeal from. 20 That if the Said Province, or the Said Colony, Shall not Enter their respective Appeal or Excep tion against Such determin* at Such last meeting 138 Correspondence of the Then no Appeal or Exception ShaU be afterwards Received or admitted from Such of the partys who Shall omit to Enter their respective Appeals or Exceptions at Such last meeting of the Comm?; And in Case neither the Said Province nor the Said Colony Shall then Enter any Appeal or Exceptions, the determin? of the Comm? (Being Confirmed by his Majesty in Councill) Shall be final and Conclu sive to both the Said Province and Colony. 21 That the Said Province and the Said Colony be permitted to take out at their own respective Expence Copys of the whole proceedings. Proofs, Exhibits, Plans, and all other Papers and Writings in this Affair, to be attested by 3 or more of the Comm? 22 That the Comm? do Return a fair Copy of the whole Record, attested by 3 or more of them to His Majesty in Councill 23 That the Charge of the Commission and of the Carrying it into Execution and of the Comm? their Clarks Surveyors and Officers be borne and paid in Equal Moietys by the Said Province and the Said Colony [January 19, \^\%^>^\ RICHARD PARTRIDGE TO GOVERNOR WANTON. Gov^ Wanton I have already writ thee and others per this Ship a duplicate of mine of the 18. xber last since which I have often pressd our Solicitor for getting out Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 1 39 the Commission Pursuant to my Petition lodged pretty early for that purpose at the Council Office as I have heretofore advised thee, but have not yett been able to obtain it, the Lord President of the CouncU being intent of late (as I am told) in other Affairs, Par- ticular[l]y the Matter of the Boundary between the Massachusetts and New Hampshire,' that there was no getting ours relating to the Colony of Rhoad Island forward, but now I hope we shall soon, as the other is adjusted which went altogether in favour of New Hampshire. Nothing done in Parliment yet relating to fur ther inforceing the Sugar Act or Iron, or the Paper Currency in the Plantations, and which I believe they hardly will now as the Sessions is so farr ad vanced, tho' they say the Lords of Trade wiU lay before them a Representation : if they shoud I intend to send thee a Copy of it. As to Publick News, France Stands Neuter still and does not publickly take part in the part between the Spaniards and us but as the Spaniards are greatly distress'd (not with standing what they may pretend otherwise) its not very unlikely that France will Suc cour them if they can. for the rest I refer to the Prints herewith sent and remain Thy&c Rich? Partridge To Governor Wanton. 1 See note on p, 8i. i^o Correspondence of the ALEXANDER SPOTSWOOD ^ TO GOVERNOR WANTON. Gemanna IN Virginia April 3? I740- Sir The Paquet, which I now transmit to you from the Duke of Newcastle His Majesty's Principal Sec retary of State, came to my hand Yesterday; the Colchester Man of War being sent Express to bring the same to me : And as His Majesty has Honour'd me with the Charge of Concerting Measures with aU his Governors here on the Continent of America, for the Assistance which their respective Provinces may Afford "towards an important Expedition now on foot, against the Spanish Settlemen" in the West Indies, I purpose for that end, very soon personally to Kiss yoT hands. In the meantime His Grace's Letter will, I doubt not, induce you zealously to set about the encourag ing the people Under your Government, to engage in so Glorious an undertaking; which they may certainly look upon as a Golden Adventure : Espe ciaUy when they learn that Vice-Admiral Vernon has already Oblig'd the Inhabitants of Porto-Bello, to redeem their Town from being burnt, by the pay ment of Three Millions of Pieces of Eight; besides his taking three 2 or 3 Spanish Men of War, and 15 or 16 Merchant Men. Now if the Admiral could atchieve this with the Squadron at present under his Command; what place, on the Coasts of the Spanish 1 Spotswood was govemor of Virginia from 1710 to 1722, and always a prominent figure in the colony. In 1 730 he was appointed deputy-postmaster for the colonies, and was commissioned major-general in 1 740. He died in June while superintending the embarking of troops at Annapolis. Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 141 West Indies, can withstand our Attempts, when rein forced with another Squadron of Men of War, and Eight or Ten Thousand Land Forces from Europe, together with five or Six Thousand Volunteers, in ured ^:o the Climate of America, which we may Probably raise upon this Continent, and in our Islands in the West Indies ? As an inducement to your people, to engage in the intended Expedition, it may not be amiss to remark to them the very prudent care which His Majesty has taken of their Interests ; by appointing an Old Experienc'd Officer (who has resided among them 25 years, and has his Estate fixt in this part of the world) to have the particular Command of the North American Forces : whereby they may assuredly ex pect, that He will be a Strenuous Stickler in their behalf to have Justice done them, in their due share of the Booty. Your honouring me with your frequent Corre spondence, at this juncture, and informing me of the Progress you make in the intended Levies; or of what Success you expect therein, may very much conduce to the orderly carrying on the present Ser vice ; And whatever Government I may be in, my Deputy Post-Masters will safely convey your Letters toS' Your Most Obedient Humble Servant A Spotswood 142 Correspondence of the RICHARD PARTRIDGE TO GOVERNOR WANTON. London 2? mo : the 4 . 1 740 Goif. Wanton The foregoing is duplicate of my last to thee per Cap! Remick. Since which the Lords of Trade have laid before the Pariiam' on the 28 ult. Copys of the Several acco!' of Paper Currency in the Plantations w''' they reed from the respective Governm?, just as they came over without makeing any remarks thereon, as thou willt see by the inclosed Paper here with sent thee.^ the Board had indeed prepared a pretty long Representation on the Subject, but when they had done it, did not send it to either the Lords or Commons for Certain Reasons they had with themSelves ; perhaps they might apprehend Part of it might give occasion of disgust to some Persons ; however it lyes by them and whether they wUl make any use of it hereafter I know not, however as I have had a Sight of it I procurd a Copy and shall send it thee in my next ; those Papers w* the Board of Trade have laid before both Houses lye on their Table to be perusd by the Members after they were read and nothing at all yet further done therein ; I shall still be on the Watch to observe what proceed ings have been made thereabout and act as shall be judgd necessary and advise thee accordingly, which is the present needfull from Thy assured Friend Rich"^ Partridge along with the Lond? Magazine w''" goes by this Ship .. 1 Not in the archives. Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 143 for Sec"^ Martin I sent thee a Plan of Puerto Bello harbour and also an other Plan of w'^'' I desire thy acceptance To Governor Wanton. THE DUKE OF NEWCASTLE TO THE GOVERNOR AND COMPANY OF RHODE ISLAND. Whitehall April 5'? 1740. Gentlemen, I acquainted you by my Letter of January the s'.*" with His Majesty's Intentions to send from hence a large Body of Forces under the Command of My Lord Cathcart,' in order to make an attempt upon some of the most considerable of the Spanish Settle ments in the West Indies ; which are to be joined by such a Number of Troops, as may be raised in His Majesty's Colonys and Islands in America ; And at the same Time I sent you His Majesty's Direc tions to be making the necessary Dispositions, in order to facilitate, as soon as possible, the raising the Troops within your Government; And I informed you, that Col° Blakeney,^ who is appointed Adjutant General in this Expedition, would set out from hence, as soon as possible, with the King's more particular Instructions and Directions to you and the other Governors in America, relating to this Matter: And His Majesty doubts not, but that, in consequence of these Orders, you will have taken the necessary 1 See p. 140. 2 See p. 144. jAA Correspondence of the Steps to get the Levys in as much Forwardness as possible. I now send you inclosed His Majesty's Instruc tions,' under His Royal Sign Manual, containing particular Directions for your Conduct in every Thing, relating to the Performance of this Service, which are so full, that they leave me nothing to add, but to recommend to you the utmost Care and Dili gence in the Execution of His Majesty's Orders, and particularly in procuring as great a Number of Men, as you possibly can, to inlist, which by the great Encouragement, which (you will see by your Instruc tions) His Majesty has thought fit to give to such Persons, as shall enter into His Service on this Oc casion, It is hoped, may be easily done. You wiU see, that Col? Blakeney carries with him from hence only 3000 Arms; You wiU not however limit the Number of Men to be raised within your Govern ment, in proportion to that Number of Arms ; since My Lord Cathcart will carry with him a Quantity of Spare Arms and Cloathing, in case it should be practicable to raise a greater Number, than the Three Thousand, for which Col? Blakeney carries with him Arms, and Money for their Subsistence. As you cannot but be sensible of the great Im portance of this Service, and how much the Honour of His Majesty's Crown, and the Interest of His Subjects (especially Those in America) are concerned in the Success of this Expedition, I am persuaded you will omit nothing on your part, that may con tribute thereto, by doing all that lies in your Power, i See the following document. Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 145 to promote the Levys, as soon, and as effectually, as may be, in which you will judge from the advanced Season, there is no Time to be lost ; and you may be assured, that your Zeal in the Execution of the King's Orders on this Occasion, will be very gra ciously accepted by His Majesty. Major General Spotswood,' whom His Maj'?' has been pleased to appoint Quarter Master General in this Expedition, and Colonel of the Troops to be raised in America, will receive His Majesty's Direc tions to sail with such a Number of the said Troops, as He can get together, so as to be at the Place appointed for the General Rendezvous by the latter End of August, or the Beginning of September next; And He wUl leave Directions with proper Persons to follow him with the rest of the Troops, as they shall be raised. And if you should find Difficulty in raising the Men within your Government by the Methods that may occur to you for that purpose. It is His Ma jesty's Pleasure, that you should, in that Case, per mit Major General Spotswood, Col? Blakeney, or any Persons appointed by them, to beat up for Volun^ teers, and that you should, to the utmost of your Power, assist them in it. I heartily wish you Success in the Execution of His Majesty's Orders, and am. Gentlemen, Your most humble Servant. Holles Newcastle Gov' and Company of Rhode Island. 1 See p. 140. 146 Correspondence of the GEORGE IL TO THE GOVERNOR AND COMPANY OF RHODE ISLAND. ^ George R. Secret Instruction for Our Trusty and Welbeloved the Governor and Company of Our Colony of Rhode Island and Providence Plantation in America, or the Governor and Company of Our said Colony for the time being. Given at Our Court at St James's the Second Day of April 1740, in the Thirteenth Year of Our Reign. Whereas'We. have been graciously pleased to charge Ourselves with the Cloathing, Arming and Pay of the Troops to be raised in Our Colony of Rhode Island and Providence Plantation under your Gov ernment, and have likewise given them many other great Encouragements to enter into Our Service, as, by your Instructions upon that Subject, will appear, and therefore have Reason to hope, that the As sembly of Our said Colony wiU make no Difficulty of complying with Our Eighth Instruction to you, whereby you are ordered to recommend to them to provide Victuals, Transports and all other Neces saries for the Troops to be raised by them, except their Cloaths. Tents, Arms, Ammunition and Pay, till their Arrival at the General Rendezvous in the West Indies. However, that this Expedition may not be defeated for want of an eariy and sufficient Supply of Transports and Provisions, in case Our said Colony shall heartily exert themselves in the Execution of the rest of Our Orders, and shall, within a reasonable Time, raise a large Body of Men 1 Enclosed in the Duke of Newcastle's letter of April 5, 1740. Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 147 for Our Service, if they cannot be induced forthwith to comply with Our Orders herein, You are hereby empowered to engage Transports and secure Provi sions, for the purpose aforesaid, upon the best Terms you are able, and to draw upon the Commissioners of Our Navy for the payment thereof. GR. RICHARD PARTRIDGE TO GOVERNOR WANTON. London 2? mo. the 12'." 1740 Governour Wanton My last to thee was per Cap! Fones of the 3? Inst. to which I refer, wherein I intimated that the Lords of Trade had lately laid before the Parliament the sev! accounts they reed from the Governors of the Plantations relating to the State of Paper Currency &c. just as they came over without making any Re marks thereon, this now brings thee a Copy of that Boards Representation which they had prepar'd to lay before both Houses of Parliam', but afterwards on some considerations declind it and which still lyes in their Office, whether any or what use of it may be made hereafter we know not, as for my part I have never given them any aco! relating to the Paper Currency of RM Island, neither indeed could I with any certainty ; but here is Ch : Kilby ^ one of the Massachus? Assembly come over to Solicit some thing relating to the extention of the Gov.'' Instruc tions for issuing Bills of Credit, who has been before that Board, and I am apt to think was examind on 1 Provincial agent for Massachusetts at London. 148 Correspondence of the that head in generall, but beleive he will scarce in any wise accomplish the end he was sent over for, — The House of Commons have appointed the 16'.'' Inst for taking into consideration the afores^ several acco? presented them by the Lords of Trade. 16. ditto Since writing the foregoing I attended at the House of Commons and saw that when the affair of the Paper Currency was to have come on they put off the consideration of it to the 23? Instant at w'^'' time I intend to be there again but am apt to think they will Scarce do much in it this Sessions the time being so far Spent I am with due regards Thy Assured Friend RiCH° Partridge To Governour Wanton. RICHARD PARTRIDGE TO GOVERNOR WANTON. L0ND?2? mo. the 17. 1740 Governor Wanton I have already writ thee per this Conveyance of the 12'.'' Inst to which I refer, but since then I have learnd how far the Pariiam' are like to proceed this Sessions touching the Paper Currency Affair and w^" I find is agreed on beforehand, viz That they wiU only come now to Some Resolutions thereupon, the principal of which wiU be, that the House do address the King that he wo'^ be pleasd to give Instructions to the GovT of our Plantations not to pass any Act for Emitting any more Bills of Credit Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 149 without its being first approvd of here — and I expect on the 23 Inst it will be resolvd accordingly. thus I judgd it my duty to give thee the necessary Information from time to time of what Steps have been and are like to be taken in a Matter which so nearly affects the Plantations, as I shall also continue to do for the future who am Thy assured Fr'* R? Partridge To John Wanton EsqT Governor of the Colony of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations THE DUKE OF NEWCASTLE TO THE GOVERNOR AND COM PANY OF RHODE ISLAND. Whitehall i8'? April 1740. Gentlemen, I send you herewith, by His Majesty's Command, a printed Copy of an Act of Parliament,^ which was •passed this Session, for the more effectual securing and encouraging the Trade of His Majesty's British Subjects to America, and for the Encouragement of Seamen to enter into His Majesty's Service; I am to acquaint you with His Majesty's Pleasure, that you should cause the same to be made publick in His Majesty's Province under your Government. I also inclose to you His Majesty's Royal Proclama tion relating thereto. 1 See letter of the Lords of Admiralty to the Govemor and Company of Rhode Island, of May 20, 1740, on p. 159. 150 Correspondence of the You wiU observe, that there is a Clause in this Act, by which the entire property of all Prizes, that shall be made by any Privateer, in consequence of Commissions granted to them after the 4'? of Janu ary last, by Persons authorized for that purpose, is vested in the Captors, except as to the Customs and Dutys mentioned in the said Act. This I am per suaded, will be a great Inducement to His Majesty's Subjects to fit out rival Ships against the Spaniards, which you will encourage Those under your Govern ment to do, as soon and as effectually as possible. And His Majesty doubts not but You will employ your utmost Diligence and Attention, that the Ends proposed by this Act may be fully obtained. I am, Gentlemen, Your most humble Servant Holles Newcastle GovT and Company of Rhode Island general spotswood TO GOVERNOR WANTON. Annap? 26^' April 1740. Sir I Expected to have been by this time forwarder in my way to confer w! the Northern Governours about the grand Expedition now on foot, but the Dif ficulties and delays that I met with in the Govern ment of Virginia has retarded my Journey, where fore I send this express to inform you the sooner of the measures I have Concerted w! the Governour of N. Carolina Virginia and Maryland; and more Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 151 especiaUy of that one necessary step wch Requires to be first settled, I mean the pay of the Troops w'ch ought all to be upon one uniform footing, otherwise when the new Levies of every Province come to serve together. Dissatisfactions, and Consequently mutinies, might arise from some Receiving higher pay than others; There are scarce any two Provinces on this Continent, that agree in the Value of their Cur rency, and in every one of 'em the Exchange between their Currency and Sterling is Continually varying : So that to avoid all confusion in Acco'!', and clearly to Satisfie the Common Soldiers, that they are all serving upon the same pay, I have taken upon me to Advise that the pay promis'd 'em should be one Pistole for every Kalendar month ; and to encourage several sorts of men to enlist, I have advis'd a Pub lication, narrating that whereas many men might be desirous of leaving some Subsistance money with their FamUies; Several Debtors might be able to* clear off, or Compound w' their Creditors ; and many Servants might obtain their Masters leave to enlist. If three or four months pay were promis'd to be advanc'd, and pay'd- to their Respective assigns after their Embarkation: I have had the experience of these kind of proposals having had very Good Effects, when in the Year 17 16, I being Governour of Vir ginia, Rais'd immediately men, and sent them away to the Succour of S? Carolina, and 'twUl be carrying on the King's service w' greater Frugality than by Giving every man Bounty money. So soon as the Adjutant General arrives w' the Kings fuU Instructions, you may expect to hear from 152 Correspondence of the me more at large on this Subject: In the mean while I desire you'll take all oppurtunities to let me know what success you are likely to have in Rais ing men for the intended Expedition ; That I may by the first occasion Transmit such Accounts to the Secretary of State (as I am Commanded) to be forth with laid before his Majesty for his Information and Satisfaction. I am S"" Your Most Obedient Humble Servant A Spotswood RICHARD PARTRIDGE TO GOVERNOR WANTON. London the 2^ 3I mo. 1740 Govern'' Wanton My last to thee was of the 12 ult per Cap! Rymes. This now brings thee the Votes of the House of 'Commons 4 days before they were prorogu'd, con taining Several Smart Resolutions respecting the Paper Currency and Gold and Silver Coins in the Plantations w* were designed (as I apprehend) pre paratory to some Law to be passd relating thereto next Sessions of Pariiam', which Resolutions were very hastily come in to, they being proposd and agreed on at a Committee of the whole House one day, then reported and concluded on the next; but it was by the House of Commons only, the Lords did nothing at all in it: and it is observable that they were proposd and carryed through at the In stance of three of the Members principally who are of the side of the Minority of the House being Anti- Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 153 Courtiers viz. ST Jn? Barnard Sam' Sandys and AU'' Hume Campbell Esq? and its beleivd that the chief aim of some of them in it, was more with a view to puzle and perplex the Ministry and Spirit up the Plantations against them than any thing else, but be that as it will they have addressd the King pursuant to their Resolutions who has asur'd them that he will on his part comply with what is desired ; The next day after those Matters passd the House, I reflecting on the many Inconveniencys that might attend in the Consequence, waited on EsqT Sandys and Hume CampbeU at their Houses where I was civilly treated and had a great deal of Conversation in discourse with them, Setting forth the great hard ships and Confusion to the Colonys that woud At tend the Consequence of the Royal Orders pursuant to their Addresses if it were practicable to be complyd with, but it was apprehended that it could not be with any possibility; and that had they not so hastily passd those Resolutions I shou'd have desired to have been heard at the Bar of the House against them, but at present (as they allowd) I was pre cluded, pretty much the Substance of my Argum" I afterw"!' committed to writing w'^'' for thy &c Satis faction I send thee herewith.-' what effect. my Rea sonings (which they heard with attention) may have with them I know not but I perswade myself those Gentlemen were a little Softned : — and as it happend that I was not now heard before the House it is as well, seeing at next Sessions we shall have this Plea to urge that I had not the opportunity of laying 1 See the following document. 154 Correspondence of the before them the many Inconveniencys that w'' un avoidably attend the Execution of their Resolutions especially too as there was not time for digesting our Arguments so duely as they ought to be. Hume Campbell intimated that as to the Charter Governm" their Intention was not to hurt them in their privilidges but only to oblige them to transmit their Laws hither and that they sM send over answers to the Board of Trade as other Colonys did when required pusuant to addresses of Parliament; so now thou willt in concert with the Legislature of the Colony give me proper Instructions how to act against the Parliam' meets again to do business w'''' I beleive will scarce be this Six months. C. Kilby indeed for the Massach? got a Petition delivered to the House just in time and was heard at the Bar, but it did not seem to make much Im pression upon them so as to alter the Scheme of their Intentions. As to the Affair of the Commission ^ we have not been able to get it passd yet tho' I have frequently pressd for it ; the reasons of its being retarded I refer thee to my Solicitors letter for, which comes inclosed, but I shaU still pursue it till its accomplishd. As to publick News, the War with Spain is con tinued to be carried on with Vigour, the French still remain Neuter, and as long as they do so, to be sure the Dutch wUl take no part in our Comotions — for the rest I refer to the Publick Prints herewith sent and remain Thy assured Friend Rich? Partridge i Commission for determining the Massachusetts boundary. Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 155 Since the foregoing I attended w"' my Solicitor at the L^.' Committee of Council and they have re ferrd my Petition for a Commission to the Board of Trade to consider and settle the Heads of a Com mission for the Boundary after having called the Partys before them. The Parliam' have passd a Law for encouragem' of Seamen w'"* I send thee herewith — and here is also a list of the Members of the Lords and CommonSo To Governour Wanton. RICHARD PARTRIDGE TO MESSRS. SANDYS^ AND CAMPBELL.^ Relating to the Resolution of the House of Commons' about Paper Currency : Arguments urgd to Sam? Sandys and AlexF Hume Cambell Esq? per R P.» That the Kings Proclamation and Orders to the several Governors of the British Plantations in con sequence of the Addresses of the House would be very prejudicial and tend to putting the said Plan tations into great confusion for the following Rea sons. For that should the Proclamation be issued for reducing Gold and Silver Coin agreeable to the Proclamation of Queen Ann Viz to 6/10"! per oz for Silver, the consequence would be (if it took effect) 1 Samuel, first Baron Sandys, was member for Worcester from 1718 to 1743, when he became Lord Sandys and took his seat in the Upper House. He was prominent as an opponent of the Walpole administration, but, although he held several lucrative court appointments, was not a man of any great political importance. 2 Hume Campbell was an advocate of the Court of King's Bench, and was, in 1742, Solicitor-General to the Prince. s Enclosed in Partridge's letter of 3 mo. (May) 2, 1740. 156 Correspondence of the that all Comodities would unavoidably Sink in pro portion thereto which would greatly affect Contracts for Goods already Sold to the ruin of many. That the People not having the priviledge of Coin ing any money are under a necessity of a Medium of Trade to carry on their Commerce, all Gold and Sil ver passing there as Merchandize is brought up to make returns for Goods imported from Great Britain, they being constantly in great distress for want of a sufficient Supply of such Comodities as are suit able to send over to pay for the Goods that are sent them from hence, and consequently the People there allways greatly in debt to Great Britain which makes the BaUance of Trade in favour of the latter, and that will naturally drain away all the Gold and Silver from amongst them. That should the People there be prohibited from Issuing Paper Money (without which they cannot carry on their Commerce and Trade) it would yet very greatly distress them, be the Ruin of many Familys and a vast hurt to the several Governments, for that if the intended Proclamation and the Royal Order of prohibition take effect the Consequence would be that as all Landed Estates would sink to one fourth part of the value ; the Paper Bills now current would be of course equal to Gold and Sil ver : The said BUls when first issued were lent out on Land Security on the foUowing or like manner Viz To a Man whose Estate was worth £ 1 600 they lent /1200 of those Bills at 5 per C! Int' to be repaid in 7 or 10 years or at a certain period of time, at which time the Bills were to be called in and sunk Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 157 with the money so repaid to the Government, and more issued on the same foot : but in the mean time out comes the Proclamation and Royal Orders whereby the coin is reduced the Estate sunk in value from ;^i6oo to ^400 so that the proprietor looses his whole Estate because he took up ;^i20o upon it, which the Government has his Land in Mortgage for; the Mortgagor is therefore Ruined, and the Colony looses ^800 out of the ^1200 they lent, and must yet be obligd to buy up their Bills at the period of time for calling them in, which would greatly distress them, and put them as is before said into the utmost confusion. That as to the Charter Governments, they have from the encouragement given them by their Charter (particularly Rhode Island for whom I am concern'd) Cultivated and improv'd a Wilderness Country, and defended it at the hazard of their Lives and Estates from the Native Indians without a Shilling Expence to the Crown (tho' its well known other Colonys have caused this Nation many thousand pounds) ; They have the privilidge of making Laws among them selves for the good Ordering of their Government so as they are not repugnant to the Laws of Eng land without being obligd to transmit them home, which privilidge they have now enjoyed for a great Number of Years and I hoped that the Commons of Great Britain allways tender of Liberty and property will not now deprive them thereof, especially seeing they are already Crampt in the Foreign Trade and are of so great advantage to this Kingdom by taking off annually considerable quantitys of its Manufac- 158 Correspondence of the tures. and then I particularly describd and Set forth the nature and different manner of the making re turns from the Plantations to pay for those Manufac tures &c? And that as to the rise of the Exchange I did not apprehend it was owing to the Emission of Bills of Credit as had been Suggested, for in Pennsilvania, New Jersey and New York they Emitted consider able quantitys and yet the Exchange there had not advanced 40 per C! this 20 years ; tho I believe I might say 20 per cent in 20 years, but that the occa sion of so great a difference in the Exchange between New England and Great Britain was from quite an other Reason, as that they were so constantly over loaded with Goods from England and allways largely in debt for want of a Supply of Returns sufficient to pay for them, that the Factors were eager in buying up whatever Commoditys was, brought to Market suitable to be sent home, as fast as ever they came ; that they bid upon one another and thereby enhanced the prices one upon another whic^ of Course will inevitably raise the price of Silver and Gold and that is certainly what Governs the Ex change &c Endorsed: Some hints of R. P.'s Arguments w'? 2 membf of the H? of Commons. Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 159 THE LORDS OF ADMIRALTY TO THE GOVERNOR AND COM PANY OF RHODE ISLAND. By the Commiss" for executing the Office of Lord High Admiral of Great Britain and Ireland &c. Whereas by an Act passed the last Session of Parliament, (entitled, an Act for the more effectual securing and encouraging the Trade of His Majes ty's British Subjects to America ; and for the Encour agement of Seamen to enter into His Majesty's Ser vice) it is, amongst other Things, therein enacted ; " That any Person or Persons in any Part of Amer- " ica or elsewhere, by us empowered and appointed, " shall, from and after the Fourth Day of January, " One Thousand Seven Hundred and Thirty Nine, " at the Request of any British Owner or Owners of " any Ship or Vessel, given such Bail and Security " as have been usually taken upon granting Com- " missions or Letters of Marque, (except only for " the Payments of the Tenth of the Value of Prizes " which shall be taken, to the Lord High Admiral " or Commissioners for Executing the Office of Lord " High Admiral for the Time being) cause to be " issued forth in the usual Manner, One or more " Commission or Commissions, to any Person or " Persons, whom such Owner or Owners shall nomi- " nate to be Commander, or in case of Death, suc- " cessively Commander of such Ship or Vessel, for " the attacking, surprizing, seizing, and taking, by " and with such Ship Vessel, or the Crew thereof, " any Place or Fortress upon the Land, or any Ship " or Vessel, Goods, Ammunition, Arms, Stores of " War or Merchandizes, belonging to, or posessed i6o Correspondence of the " by any of His Majesty's Enemies, in any Sea, Creek, " Haven, or River. These are therefore to empower you the Gov ernor, and Company of His Majesty's Colony of Rhode Island, and Providence Plantation in New England, and by these Presents, We do empower and appoint you the said Governor and Company, to cause to be issued forth pursuant to the said Act, by Warrant under your Hand, and the Seal of the said Island and Plantation, directed to the Judge of the Admiralty of the said Colony of Rhode Island, and Providence Plantation, Commissions, or Letters of Marque, at the Request of any British Owner or Owners of any Ship or Vessel, to any Person or Per sons, whom such Owner or Owners shall nominate to be Commander or incase of Death successively Commanders of such Ship or Vessel, and to cause such Bail and Security to be taken as is directed by the said Act, and moreover to cause, that in grant ing such Commissions or Letters of Marque, all other Things be had and done conformable to, and as the said Act requires ; For which This shaU be your Warrant. Given under Our Hands, and the Seal of the Office of Admiralty, this 2o'^ Day of May 1 740. D. Lyndon. Tho Clutterbuck. Vere To The Governor and Company of His Majesty's Colony of Rhode Island, and Providence Plan tation in New England By Command of their Lordships. Berreke Colonial Governors of Rhode Island i6i RICHARD PARTRIDGE TO GOVERNOR WANTON. London 4 mo. the ip*? 1740 Governor Wanton Since the foregoing Several of the Agents for our Plantation Governments have been again sent for by the Lords of Trade to attend them on the Subject of the BiUs of Credit who intimated to us that when we sh? receive answers to the respective letters they had writ. We would bring the same to their Board and that if we had any thing to offer on that head we might lay it before them in writing, upon which I acquainted that Board that I had duely attended the House of Commons whilst that Matter was debated there and I intended to have Petition'd that I might have been heard at the Bar of the House against their Resolutions which were so hastily carried thro' that I was precluded : That afterwards I waited on 2 of the principal Members concern'd in conducting that Affair in the House viz Esq? Sandys and AlexT Hume Cambell with whom I had a pretty deal of discourse setting forth the great Inconveniencys that would be the consequence of their Resolutions, and that I had committed to writing^ some of my argu ments used w"" those Gentlemen which having with me I presented it to that Board for their purusal : — at the same time I also signified that it was my opinion as well as some others this Affair had been carried on principally with a view to distress the Ministry and the Plantations more than any thing else : but that I did not look upon it practicable to 1 See p. 155. J 52 Correspondence of the be carried into Execution, — an other Copy of my said Papers is here inclosed. And now also brings thee Copy of the Lords ot Trades Report^ to the L".' Committee of CouncU upon a reference for drawing up a proper draught of Heads and Clauses of a Commission to be Issued for setling our Boundarys Line, after we had waited on the Board a considerable time and carefully settled all the Articles and now we shaU go on pursuing the Affair till the Comission be compleated. The War continues with Spain, France holds Neuter still and when there wiU be any alteration therein is alltogether uncertain for the rest I refer to the prints herewith sent and remain with due re spects. Thy assured Friend RicH° Partridge thy nephew Cap! Benj. Wanton is safe arrived here from Carrolina and is for going back directly thither in the Same Ship. Thy Packett for thee of prints I send to Benj. BagnaU (per Cap' SneUing) at Boston to forwarded to thee. 5 mo. s'? 1740 I have writt thee allready of I9'^ ult as above to which I refer : a War with France is lately talkt off afresh as if they were now in earnest, but whether it will blow over or not time must discover. I send thee per this Conveyance the abstract of the Laws past the last Sessions of Parliament and a Book of ^ This report is not in the archives. Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 163 Trade and Sundry news papers per Peter Harrison a Passenger with Cap! Patterson R Partridge To John Wanton EsqT Governour of the Colony of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations GOVERNOR BELCHER TO GOVERNOR WANTON. Sir I Receiv'd the Inclosed by the last Post from New York to be forwarded to your Honour I am now to inform Your Honour that the last Week arrivd to one of our Out Harbours a Ship of upwards One hundred Tuns from the Canaries one William Mt who pretends to be last from Madera. I am told the MT, tho an Englishman, is a Roman, a Subject of Spain, and marry'd at the Canaries. I have good reason to beleive he has run his Cargoe a Shore in Some of our Out Ports, and the Officers are making Search after it. The Ship Came fuU hither, and was met empty going, as the MT said (when he was hal'd) to Rhode Island — others say She was bound to New York, and its generally Suppos'd She is come for a load of Provisions for the Havanna or some other parts of the Spanish West Indies for which (by all advices) the Spaniards are greatly distrest. This I have thought proper to Communicate to you that there may be a good look out for Seizing this Ship if She comes your way — I am in all your 164 Correspondence of the Commands for His Majesty's Service, and for your own. Sir, Your Honours Most Obedient and Most Humble Serv! J. Belcher Boston June 30. 1 740. GovT Wanton COLONEL WILLIAM BLAKENEY TO THE GOVERNOR AND COMPANY OF RHODE ISLAND. New York 7 July 1740. Sirs As the several Companies of the Regiment of Foot now raising in America commanded by the Hon*"!' Colol. William Gooch ^ are to remain till com pleated in the respective Provinces in which they are raised, it will be necessary to pay the Officers commissioned in America their Subsistence from the Dates of their Commissions and the private men from the days of their being regularly attested before a Magistrate and as it is thought most for the Inter est of his Majesty's Service that the Governours in their respective Provinces be entrusted with this Payment I have sent you here enclosed an Estimate of the Subsistence of one Company for three Months amounting [to] ^333.11.6 SterUng which for the two Companies to be raised in your Province is ^667.3. — which Sum, or as much thereof as there may be occasion for, I desire you will advance and 1 William Gooch was governor of Virginia from 1727 to 1747, and accompanied the Virginia forces to Cartagena in 1741. Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 165 pay to said Companies, according to said Estimate, taking of each Captain one Receipt for the Subsist ence of himself and Company, one Receipt of the first and second Lieutenants their Pay per Day being the same and one Receipt of the Ensigns, mention ing in each Receipt the Exchange you pay them at for the Sterling in your Currency. Of these Re ceipts (a Form whereof is also inclosed) the Officers are to sign four Duplicates of the same Tenor and Date, one whereof please to keep for your own Voucher and transmit the other three to me; and for your Reimbursement of what you shall thus ad vance and pay please to draw on me here for the same in Sterling at such Exchange as is most for the Interest of the Service and your BiUs shall meet with due Honour. I am Sirs Your most obedient humble Servant Will Blakeney. The Officers from Europe are paid Subsistence to the 24 Instant. The Governor and Company of Rhode Island. COLONEL WILLIAM GOOCH TO GOVERNOR WANTON. Sir As You are already apprized of the Method of Levying the Forces for the intended Expedition ; I have only to desire the Favour of a particular Ac count from You of the Number of Men You have 1 66 Correspondence of the or are likely to Raise directed to the Lieu' Gov^ of Virginia at New York. I have inclosed You Commissions for Two Com panies, (the Number of Men at present expected from Your Government,) and sent You the like Num ber of Lieutenants and Serjeants, with Arms, Cloath ing for Officers and Powder; so must desire You to form the Men you have Inlisted accordingly; I have likewise desired Coll! Blakeney, who has the Man agement of the Cash, to Remit You Money, or Credit to raise it in order to pay the Men from the time of their Inlisting ; and to avoid any disappointment that may hereafter attend this Service, I must earnestly entreat You to provide Transports, and put the Troops on board at such a Convenient Season, that I may depend on their being at the place of Rendez vous within the Capes of Virginia before the Midle of September. I am perswaded Nothing wUl be wanting on Your part, in an Affair of this importance, in which I heartily wish You Success ; and have the Honour to be. Sir Your most Obed! Hum'* Servant Will: Gooch New York the 8'? of July 1740. P.S. please to date the Commissions the 9'^ of June and Endorse on the back the date of delivery The Governour of Rhode Island Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 167' GOVERNOR RICHARD WARD ^ TO COLONEL GOOCH. S'. I Rec"* your favour by L' Howard ; with the Com- tnissions for the two Companies ; and now inform you of our proceeding in Levying Troops for the expedi tion ag'.' the Spaniards. On receiving his Maj'^" Or ders and Instructions Our assembly forthwith gave a Bounty to every efective Person that should enlist in his Maj':' Service but not knowing what number of Troops his Majesty Required of this Colony did with out any regard of any proportion w'^ the other Gov ernments : and with the Utmost Zeal and Vigour with pleasure and chearfulness Enlisted ab! 270 Men (tho wee are the least Government on the Continent that are ordered to Enlist any) and have out of them com pleated two full companies of a hundred men each. This Government have also hired two Transports Sufficient for the Troops raised ; which will be at the Rendezvous in Virginia by the time prefixed and nothing ST in our power shall be wanting on the part of the Government for the carrying on an Armament w* is of such a vast advantage to his Majestie's Do minions in General and to his Subjects in America in particular ; If any thing be omitted by us I desire youl acquaint us with it and your Instruction shaU be carefully observed I beg leave ST to Assure you That I am with the utmost Deference Your most obedient and humble Serv' Endorsed : Copy to Col? Gooch. 1 Richard Ward was, on July i, chosen Governor by the Assembly in place of John Wanton, deceased. Col. Rec. ofR. I., IV. 576. 1 68 Correspondence of the GOVERNOR WARD TO COLONEL BLAKENEY. sr I was honoured with Yours of 7'^ July by MT How ard One of Our Lieutenants and communicated the Same to the Gen! Assembly of this Colony who have desired me to Acquaint You, that this Government on the Rec! of his Maj? Instructions immediately determined to Shew their Zeal on this Occasion and for the more speedy enlisting as large a Number of Men as We possibly could was the first of the Brit ish Plantations that gave a Premium for that Pur pose. As We did not know what Number of Men would be wanted or expected from Us and being apprised of the Importance of the Expedition we have raised about 270 which we beg Leave to Observe is vastly more in Proportion than what any of Our Neighbours have or propose to raise and in a few days shall Select out of them the best and most effective Men to con stitute the two Companies. We are also hiring Transports and Purchasing Provisions to carry them to Virginia the Place of Rendezvous ; where we Suppose they will enter into his Majesty's Service and be further provided for. As we shaU strictly adhere to these your In structions So hope you will from Time to Time be pleased to communicate to Us what further may be done on Our Parts, whereby we may distinguish Our Selves to his Majesty on this Occasion and merit your approbation which this Colony will be very proud of. Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 169 Permit me, ST to Assure You that I am with the Utmost Regard Your most Obedient and most humble Servant RichP Ward Newport on Rhode Island July if^ 1740 Endorsed: Copy Gov'f Ward's Letter to Col? Blakeney josiah willard^ to GOVERNOR WARD. Sir I am commanded by the Governour and Council of this Province to acquaint your HonT that a Num ber of Persons in this Province (and very few of them in Trade) have entered into an Agreement for making and emitting a large Quantity of Bills or Notes of Hand to pass in Commerce in Lieu of Money ; and have now proceeded so far as to order the making their Plates ; That these Notes have but a Slender Foundation, and no provision made to Secure any certain Value to the Possessor of them ; So that if these BiUs Should get abroad, and obtain a Credit among Some People for a little time (for it can't be long) there is great Danger that they will be im posed upon to their great Loss and Damage ; and therefore the Governour and Council have issued a Proclamation to inform all Persons concerned of their Hazzard in taking these Bills; and as the Corre spondence between the Inhabitants of your Govern ment and this may Occasion these Notes getting 1 Secretary of the Province of Massachusetts. 170 Correspondence of the among your People, The Governour and Council have directed me to advise you of this Affair, that So you may take those Measures you may think proper for Securing your People against being im posed upon by these Notes I am YoT HonT' most Obedient humble Servant J. Willard Boston, July 17, 1740 GovT Ward ANDREW STONE ^ TO THE GOVERNOR AND COMPANY OF RHODE ISLAND. Whitehall 20'." July 1740 Gentlemen, The Lords Justices, appointed for the Adminis tration of the Government during His Majesty's Absence, having thought fit to issue a Proclamation, appointing the Distribution of Prizes taken, and the Bounty for taking Ships of War from the Enemy, agreeable to a late Act of Parliament in that behalf, I send you herewith several printed Copys of the said Proclamation, that you may cause the same to be made publick in His Majesty's Colony under your Government. I am Gentlemen, Your most Obedient humble Servant Andrew Stone GovT and Company of Rhode Island. 1 A prominent politician, who was at this time under-secretary of state to the Duke of Newcastle, secretary to the Lords Justices, and joint collector of papers in the office of the secretary of state. Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 171 LIEUTENANT-GOVERNOR CLARKE ^ TO GOVERNOR WARD. N : York July 21"? 1740. ' Sir CoU Gooch on his leaving this place which he did last W^ednesday, desired me to acquaint you that he would have the Men who go from your province on the Expedition come to New York, from whence they will go to Virginia under the Convoy of His Majes ties Ship the Ludlow Castle, where Coll Gooch will join them, and proceed with them to the place of Rendezvous, he propose's that all the Troops be within the Capes of Virginia before the Midle of September, and he hope's you wUl take such order therein that the Ships you hire to transport yours may be got ready in time I am Sir your most obed' humble Serv' Geo [Clarke] Gov' of Rhode Island COLONEL BLAKENEY TO THE GOVERNOR AND COMPANY OF RHODE ISLAND. * New York 21 July 1740. Sirs As the Circumstances possibly may be the same with you, as in the other Provinces, in relation to 1 The signature is nearly illegible. George Clarke belonged to a Somersetshire family. He was appointed Secretary of the Province of New York in 1703, made a member of the Council in 1715, and Lieutenant-Governor in 1736. In 1743 he was superseded by Clinton, and, two years later, sailed for England with a fortune esti mated at £100,000, which he accumulated in America. 172 Correspondence of the the Troops now raising in America, I give you the trouble of this, to communicate to you what I have wrote to them. You will be pleased to follow his Majestys Instruc tions to you with regard to the Levies in your Pro vince, and to give the Commissions you receive, as far as they will go, to the first of the Gentlemen, warranted by you to levy, who first shall have com pleated their Companies ; and if there are any for whom you have not Commissions, to them you are to give Certificates of their having raised their sev eral Companies, and that pursuant to his Majesty's private Instructions to you, you had promised them Commissions, which Certificates they are to show to Lord Cathcart or to the Commander in Chief for the time being, who will have blank Commissions to fill up, and in the meantime you will furnish them with money for their Subsistence Viz to every commissioned or certified Officer from the date of his Commission or Certificate, the Captains at Seven ShiUings and Six pence Steriing per day each ; the first and Second Lieutenants at three Shillings and Six pence per day each, the Ensigns and Adjutants at three Shillings per day each ; the Surgeons Mate at two ShiUings per day; and the private men, under Commission or Certificate, according to the inclosed Estimate, for a Captain and his Company, which I now send you in Case of any Mistake in what was formerly sent you. Of two Companies, compleated here ; the Musters have been made up from the 25 day of June last to Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 173 the 24 August next both days included ; and their Subsistence, for that time, has been issued to their respective Captains accordingly ; the Twenty fourth day of the Month being the general Pay-Day of the Army, to which day the Musters are made up every two Months, and to which the Accounts are to be made up and Receipts taken, paying each Months Subsistence per Advance ; that is, the Month from the 25"" Instant to the 24"" of August next inclusive, on the 25"" Instant; and so on. And in order to furnish you with money for such Subsistence, in the most convenient method I can think of, for your Ease and the Advantage of the Service, I have, herewith inclosed, remitted you the four following first Bills of Exchange (the 2''.' and 3"!' whereof shall be transmitted to you next Post) dated 19"" Instant at 30 days sight to your Order on Henry Pelham EsqT Paymaster General &c amount ing to the Sum of ;^667.3 Sterling Viz! N° zl I for /250 38 I for " 150 39 I for " 167.3. 40 I for 100 In aU 4 BUls for;^667.3, which Sum please to negotiate at the best Exchange you can and apply towards paying the Levies at that Exchange ; and what you may further have occasion for as the Companies are compleated, please to advise me and it shall be remitted you. If there is any thing to be rectified, or if any thing occurs wherein my Concur- 174 Correspondence of the rence is needful I beg you wUl let me know it. I am Sirs Your most humble Servant Will: Blakeney. To The Hon*"!" the Governor and Company of Rhode Island. GOVERNOR WARD TO COLONEL GOOCH. sr Your Favour of the 8'^ inst! with the Inclosed Commissions I have rec? and am now to inform You that this Colony on the Arrival of his Majesty' In structions zealously pursu'd the most probable meth ods to encourage Persons to inlist in this Expedi tion and have rais'd about 270 Men out of which we shall select a Sufficient Number to constitute two good Companies. We are hiring Transports to carry them to Virginia and hope to be there by the Time you appoint and shall draw on Col! Blakeney agreably to your Orders. As we have hitherto been so forward (even beyond any of Our Neighbours) in promoting this Grand Design ; So you may depend we shall continue 'till we have discharg'd the whole of Our Duty, for which Purpose we shaU expect your Instructions in what you may think further necessary to be done on Our Parts. Permit me ST to Assure You that I am with the Utmost deference. Your most Obed! humb! Serv! Newport on Rhode Is? July 24!" 1740. Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 1 75 COLONEL BLAKENEY TO GOVERNOR WARD. New York 18 Aug' 1740 Sir As I wrote to you and the Company fully on the 21'.' of last month and had finished my Letter before yours of the 1 7'^ of said month came to hand I did not then acknowledge the Receipt of it. At present I give' you the trouble of this with regard to a para graph in your said Letter which says — " We are " also hiring Transports and purchasing Provisions " to carry them to Virginia the Place of Rendezvous, " where we suppose they wiU enter into his Majesty's " Service and be further provided for " — Least there should be any mistake in so material a point I now acquaint you that the Troops are lookt upon as en tered into His Majesty's Service immediately on their being duely and regularly enlisted ; that Virginia is named a place of Rendezvous where the Troops from the different Colonies in America are to meet in order to proceed together under Convoy to the gen eral Rendezvous of the Forces from Great Britain, in Jamaica, or wherever else His Majesty shall think proper to appoint it ; and that every Province is to furnish Transports and Provisions for their respec tive Numbers till such time as they join the Forces at that general Rendezvous in the West Indies. If there is any thing that wants further Explanation, please to let me know. I am with aU regard Sir Your most humble Servant Will: Blakeney. To The Hon".' Richard Ward Esq' Governor of Rhode Island at Newport 176 Correspondence of the JOHN COURAUD^ TO THE GOVERNOR AND COMPANY OF RHODE ISLAND. Whitehall August 22* 1740 Gentlemen, I herewith inclose an Additional Instruction^ signed by the Lords Justices, for effectuaUy putting in Execution an Act passed in the Sixth year of Her late Majesty Queen Anne, Intituled, An Act for ascertaining the Rates of Foreign Coins in her Ma jesty's Plantations in America ; You will please to take [note] that the said Instructions be duly com- plyed with ; I am Gentlemen, Your most obedient humble Servant John Couraud Governor and Company of Rhode Island. THE LORDS JUSTICES TO THE GOVERNOR AND COMPANY OF RHODE ISLAND.^ Instructions to the Governor and Company of His Majesty's Colony of Rhode Island and Providence Plantation in New England in America, for the better observation of the Act of the e'."" of Queen Anne, for ascertaining the Rates of foreign Coins in America. Given at Whitehall, the Twenty first Day of August 1740. In the Fourteenth Year of His Majesty's Reign. Whereas An Act of Parliament was passed in the sixth Year of Her late Majesty Queen Anne, Enti- tuled. An Act for ascertaining the Rates of foreign Coins in her Majestys Plantations in America; And whereas Complaints have been made, that the said Act has not been observed as it ought to have 1 Secretary to the Lords Justices. s See the following document. ' Enclosed in the preceding letter. Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 177 been in many of His Majesty's Colonies and Plan tations in America, by means whereof many indirect Practices have grown up, and various and illegal Currencies have been introduced in several of the said Colonies and Plantations, contrary to the true intent and meaning of the said Act, and to the Pre judice of the Trade of His Majesty's Subjects, in Con sequence of which Complaints, An humble Address was presented the last Sessions, by the House of Com mons to his Majesty, " That he would be graciously ¦' pleased to require and command the respective " Governors of his Colonies and Plantations in Amer- " ica, effectually to observe the said Act of the sixth "of Queen Anne"; It is therefore His Majesty's Royal WUl and Pleasure, and you are hereby strictly required and commanded to take the most effectual care for the future. That the said Act be punctually and bona fide observed and put in Execution, accord ing to the true intent and meaning thereof. And to the end that His Majesty's commands herein may be fully made known to all His Subjects within your Government, and that none of them may pretend Ignorance thereof You are hereby further required and commanded to publish this Instruction in such manner as may best answer his Majesty's gracious Intentions herein signified. Wilmington, P. Jo. Cart. Hervey. C. P. S., Dorset Grafton Richmond, Lennox and Aubigny. Bolton. 1 78 Correspondence of the RICHARD PARTRIDGE TO GOVERNOR WANTON. London 6 mo. the 25^' 1740 Goif. Wanton I have reccd none of thy favours of late — my last to thee was of the I7'^ Ult. per Cap! Perkins via Bos ton to w"'.'" I refer. This Serves now to bring thee a Copy of the Royal Commission^ for fixing the Boundary line between our Colony and the Massach'f and hope it will not be long before the Original Passes the Seal and is compleated, when it is I shall forward it to thee In my last I sent thee my acco! w'."* the Colony. the BaU. thereon in their favour was ;^48.i2.4 — but then no part of the charge of this Commission was set down : and I have lately paid my Sohcitor part of the money towards it since sending away my acco'. And it is very likely next Sessions of Par liam! the Affair of the State of the Paper Currency in the Plantations will come under consideration there will be necessity of money to be expended in my appearing in behalf of the Colony to vindicate their Priviledges I must intreat their Supplying me accordingly and I shall do the best I can, desiring also in the mean time thou wouldst furnish me with Instructions thereabout: I herewith send thee a Copy of an Instruction prepared to send over to the Kings Governors in generall for their Information. I w'? observe that after this dra! of the Commis sion for Settling the Line, it was considered by the 1 See Col. Rec. of R. I., IV. 586, 587, for Instructions to the Commissioners, and the Royal Commission. Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 1 79 \Jf Committee of Council to prevent doubts and ambiguitys arising from the uncertain date of the first Tuesday of March i7|^: they have varied it. And made the first Meeting to be on the first Tues day in April 1741. here are also sent thee several Copys I obtained from the Council Office relating to Charter Govern ments, the Original of L^.' Justices Order in Council^ goes by Cap! Hall, w"? was sent only (as I apprehend) in pursuance of the Vote of the House of Com mons — there is among these a Copy of the L"^.' Jus tices Approbation of the L^.' Committees Report about the Affair of Mason ^ &c. of Connecticut w?'' I thought woud not be amiss to send thee that thou might see how that Affair stood here — and I sup pose in consequence of this a New Commiss" wUl Issue Lond? 7ber the 3? 1740 To Deputy Govr Ward Since my writing the foregoing I understand that Governor Wanton is deceased altho' I have no letter of it yet come to my hand, and it being about the Colonys Affairs I judgd it my duty now to address to thee, who am Thy assured Friend Rich? Partridge To Richard Ward Esq Governour of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations 1 This document is in the manuscript volume of Orders of the King in Council, at the State House. 2 See note on p. 125. i8o Correspondence of the COLONEL BLAKENEY TO GOVERNOR WARD. New York 25 Aug' 1740 Sir I am favoured with yours of the 15* Inst: acknow ledging the receipt of mine of the 21'! and 22'? of July with the Bill for ^^667 . 3 Sterling ; likewise mentioning that your Transports would be at New York in a fortnight. I am humbly of opinion that you ought to wait the Motion of the Troops from New England that we may all proceed together. I am Sir Your most humble Servant Will: Blakeney To the Hon''.'' Rich? Ward Esq' RICHARD PARTRIDGE TO GOVERNOR WARD. London 7ber: the 17^': 1740 Governour Ward I have been informed that it hath pleased Divine Providence lately to remove out of this life our Wor thy Friend Governour Wanton, the loss of whom will doubtless Sensibly affect the people of the Colony in a general Manner, alltho' I had not much Per sonal Acquaintance with him, I took him to be a Gentleman liberally endued with Wisdom and Ca pacity to Sustain that honourable post with Repu- [tajtion both to himself and the Government. And now as the choise of his Successor in the Governm! has faUen on thee I hold it my duty to Colonial Governors of Rhode Island i8i advise thee from time to time of such Occurances here which may any ways affect the Colony as to the Priviledges and Rights they enjoy by their Charter, and I trust my utmost Endeavours shall not be wanting to prevent if possible any attempts to their Prejudice, which has been my care hitherto, during the time of my being the Colonys Agent, as I hope I have many Witnesses there who wo*! do me the jus tice to acknowledge. We have at length got out the Royal Commission under the Great Seal^ appointing CommissT' to Set tle the Boundary line between the Colony and the Province of the Massach'.' which I now send thee in a Box by our Friend Cap! Wanton, a passenger with Cap! Hall to Boston, which I wish safe to thy hands. The acco! of the charge of it I shall send hereafter — it has been a pretty while in getting it through and compleated, but I do assure thee there was no time that I know off lost in doing it since I reced the Colonys Order for taking it out : there being the usual form of passing through several Offices w* with Orders and References unavoidably attending the Solicitation that we could no ways help it. there comes also in the Box with the Commission 15 Copys thereof. One to be delivered to each of the Commis sioners, which thou willt please to take the necessary care about. Its thought the King wUl return from Hannover pretty soon and that the Parliament will sit some time in NovT next, against which time I hope I shall have 1 See Col. Rec. ofR. I., IV. 587. 1 82 Correspondence of the some Instructions relating to tjie Affair of Paper Money &c. As to Publick News the Spanish Fleet of abo! 17 Men of War have got out of Ferrol harbour abo! 2 months since and gone as its judgd for the West Indies and the French Brest Squadron gone to joyn them of abo! 14 Ships or upwards, so that they have got the Start of our Fleet, who stiU lyes wind bound at S! Helens. Lord Cathcart when he Sails will now have near 30 Men of War with him bound (as they say) to Jamaica. The Touloun Squadron of 14 Sail are not gone out of the Straits yet, but will probably stay there to assist the Spaniards. The Apparent behaviour of the French in joyn- ing the Span"!' with their Ships of War, and their preparation of late for fortifying Dunkirk again, is an Infraction of the Treaty of Utrecht, and seems to portend a War with them, but it is not yet proclaimd, nor any hostilitys committed, with due respects to thy self and the Gentlemen of the Council and House of Representatives I remain Thy ffaithfuU Friend Rich? Partridge The other News papers I send in a packet for thee by it self To Richard Ward EsqT Governour of the Colony of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations. Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 183 GOVERNOR WARD TO THE DUKE OF NEWCASTLE. ^Autumn of 1740.] May it please Your Grace, His Majesty's Instructions respecting the raising of Levies to go on an Expedition against the Span iards with Your Grace's Recommendation came Safe to Our Hands, upon which this Colony determined to shew their Zeal for the Service and as a further Encouragement to what his Majesty was pleased to give was the first of the Plantations that offered a Premium to Soldiers to inlist ; by which means we raised two very good Companies and kept them bil leted out at the Governments Charge from the Month of May to the 1 3 of September last ^ at which Time they sail'd from hence in two suitable Vessels which we hired to transport them to the Place of Gen! Rendezvous, having first furnish'd them with Provi sions and all other Necessaries for the Design, the names of the officers over these Companies we now take Liberty to present to Your Grace Permit Us, ST, to assure you that as we esteem it a Singular Happiness to be under your Inspection So none shall more cheerfully receive nor more readily execute whatever Your Grace Shall be pleased to recommend than this Colony hoping that our Con duct in this and all Other Respects will be accept able to Our Sovereign and your Graces Approbation which we shall esteem as the greatest Honour that can be done to. May it please Your Grace, Your Grace's most Obed! and most humble Serv' Endorsed : To His Grace the Duke of Newcastle. 1 September, 1740. See Arnold, History of Rhode Island, II. 126. 184 Correspondence of the ANDREW STONE TO THE GOVERNOR AND COMPANY OF RHODE ISLAND. Whitehall 2? October 1740. Gentlemen, Their Ex"?' the Lords Justices to whom His Ma jesty has entrusted the Administration of the Gov ernment, during His Absence, having been informed, that great Quantitys of Provisions have been ex ported from several of His Majesty's Colonys in North America for the Use of foreign Colonys, which Practise may, in the present Conjuncture, be highly prejudicial to His Majesty's Service; Their Ex"^?' have commanded me to signify to You their Direc tions, that you should prevent, as far as possible, the Exportation of any Provisions from the Colony under your Government to any foreign Colony whatever; And in order thereto, that you should cause all Ships laden with Provisions, and not in His Majesty's Ser vice, that shall sail from any of the Ports within your Government, to give sufficient Security to land the said Provisions in some part of His Majesty's Do minions. I am Gentlemen, Your most obedient humble Servant Andrew Stone. Govt and Company of Rhode Island Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 185 ADMIRAL VERNON TO GOVERNOR WARD. Port Royal Jamaica 13'? November 1740 Sir An Opportunity offering by one of our Contrac tors M' Tickell's Vessels bound to New York, I could not slip the same of informing You, of the Arrival in these Seas not only of the large Squadron of twelve Spanish Men of War from 80 to 60 Guns, but like wise of two as large Squadrons of French Ships from Brest and Toulon. I have Advice of as large Rein forcements being under Orders for coming to join me. So that, in all human Probability the Fate of this War is drawing to a Crisis, and Decision in these Seas. And as any Misfortune befalling us might be fatal to our Possessions in these Seas ; and as I think these Squadrons will rely on being supply'd with Pro visions from Your Parts, either immedeately from the French Ports, before we may come to a Rupture with them, or from Statia and Curascoa afterwards, I can't omit recommending it to You, as most material for His Maj' Service, to have no One permitted, at this Critical Juncture, to clear out from Your Govern ment, without sufficient Security given, not to land his Provisions at any French or Dutch Settlement, or any other but His Maj? CoUonies, where all they can raise will probably be wanted for the Subsistance of His Majf Troops. As the Publick Service sufficiently bespeaks Your Regard in this particular, I can in no sort doubt of 1 86 Correspondence of the Your exerting Your utmost Zeal in it, for His Maj? Service. I am Sir Your most obedient humble Servant E. Vernon The Hono''!' Richard Ward EsqT GOVERNOR WARD TO RICHARD PARTRIDGE. sr Your favour of the I7'^ September last by Cap| Hall with yours of the 19'!" with the News Letters accompanying it, are come safe to Hand but the Commission with the Copys, being in Cap! Wantons Chest; are not come to Hand; his dyin on Ship board with the small Pox has caused a Stoppage of every Thing aboard the Ship for the Present. If any thing further be laid before the Parliament this Sessions about our paper Currency You will acquaint this Government immediately of it, and endeavour to get Leave that the Government may be heard on it. In the present Circumstances of the New England Colonys It is impossible this Government separate from the rest can come up to the Act of the 6'^ of Queen Ann ^ ascertaining the Rates of foreign Coins, our European trade is almost wholly thro the Hands of the Boston Merch? and unless that Government will emit their Bills at that Value it will [be] im practicable for this Colony to do it. Connecticut has emitted a Bank of ;^ 30000 in paper at 8s. per 1 See letter of August 22, 1740. Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 187 oz which is as good as ever Silver passed amongst us upwards of thirty Years past. A Committee^ appointed by this Colony are preparing a Repre sentation of our several Emissions of paper Cur rency and a Draught of the Laws now in force ; pursuant to his Majestys Order which wUl be com pleated in a few Months Time ; acquaint the Lords Commissioners with it. The Government has Hon'? me with the Part of GovT for this Year, as for your Ace? how they stand I know not I shall during my Administration take such Care of the publick affairs that nothing shall be wanting on the Governments Part to enable You to carry them on with Satisfac tion Your favour of the Duplicate with your News- Paper come to Hand as I was concluding this Letter I acknowledge your favour and remain S' Your humble Serv' Rich? Ward Newport Nov^2oV'i74o To Mt Rich? Partridge Merch' in London THE DUKE OF NEWCASTLE TO THE GOVERNOR AND COMPANY OF RHODE ISLAND. Whitehall Dec! 4'!' 1740 Gentlemen, His Majesty having received an Account of what has been done in the several Provinces of North America, with regard to the raising a Body of Men 1 A letter from the Board of Trade of August 19, 1740, on the subject, may be found in the Col. Rec. ofR. I., V. 7, and the committee above referred to was appointed by the Assembly in October, 1740. Col. Rec. ofR. I., IV. 584. 1 88 Correspondence of the to Serve under the Command of the Lord Cath cart, and transporting them to Jamaica, by which it appears, that there is such a Spirit among His Majesty's Subjects in those Provinces, that even a greater Number of Men might have been raised for this Service than has yet been done; And as it is probable, that Recruits will be wanted for the Forces under Lord Cathcart's Command, or even that Lord Cathcart may write to have a greater Number of Troops from North America, than are at present sent to him ; His Majesty has commanded me to acquaint You, that if My Lord Cathcart should think proper to send to You for any Number of Men for Recruits, or for any other Service, you should endeavour to raise them accordingly, and take Care, that they be transported to such Place, and at such Time as Lord Cathcart shall appoint ; And that all such Persons as shall enlist, in His Majesty's Service, on any such Occasion, should have the same allow ance of Pay and Subsistance, Cloaths and Arms, as was given to the Men, that were first raised ; And it is His Majesty's Pleasure, that you should transmit an exact Account of the Number of effective Men, that have been already raised within your Govern ment, as also of Those, that shall be farther raised in consequence of any Application to You for that purpose by My Lord Cathcart, as is abovementioned. I am. Gentlemen, Your most obedient humble Servant Holles Newcastle GovT and Company of Rhode Island. Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 1 89 GOVERNOR WARD TO RICHARD PARTRIDGE. sr Yours of the 21'.' of November last came to hand the I6'^ Current with your soUicitors Bill, and your Ace! stated with the Colony. Ballance in your favour ;^ 1 59. 1 1.4 which I shall lay before the Assembly at their next sessions, and doubt not of their remitting you the BaUance of your Ace! and a further supply to enable you to prosecute the Affairs of the Gov ernment with Vigor.^ You'l herewith receive inclosed a representation of our several Emissions of paper Currency to be laid before the board of Trade for the plantations which You are to lay before them as soon as They come to hand.^ A Copy whereof You'l herewith re ceive open, which will throly furnish You with the reasons that induced the Colony to make those Emis sions ; and enable you to reply to all that shall be said against Them Your publick prints came safe to hand for which I thank You I am ST Your hearty friend Newport Feb : 26*? 1 74}. To MT Rich? Partridge Merch! in London 1 No notice of any such remittance appears in the Assembly records for 1741. 2 For Governor Ward's Report upon the paper money of Rhode Island, see Col. Rec. ofR. I., V. 8. 190 Correspondence of the THE LORDS OF TRADE TO THE GOVERNOR AND COMPANY OF RHODE ISLAND. Whitehall, April 17'?' 1741. Gentlemen, Two Acts having been pass'd this Sessions of Parliament, wherein the British Plantations are con cerned, Viz. An Act to prohibit for a time therein limited the Exportation of Corn, Grain (Rice excepted) Meal, Malt, Flour, Bread, Biscuit Starch, Beef, Pork and Bacon. An Act for licensing the Importation of Victual from Ireland, and other Parts beyond the Seas into Scotland, in Time of Dearth and Scarcity. We have thought fit to send you printed Copies of them for your Information and Government in the several Matters therein contained. So we bid you heartily farewell, and are Your very loving Friends and humble Servants, Ja. Brudenell Edw. Ashe M. Bladen R. Plumer A Croft Hon''!' Govt and Company of Rhode Island. Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 191 E. WARNER, R. GIBBS, AND J. BOWEN TO GOVERNOR WARD. May IS*? A d 1741 May it please Your Honour after Due Regards presented, These Unes may Inform Your Honour That Pursuant to The Act of Assembly^ we have waited uponM"' Richard Thornton in order to Receive the Books Papers and Seal, that were in his Cus tody as late Clerk of the Inferior Court of Common Pleas and General Sessions of the Peace in order to Deliver the Same to Stephen Hopkins Esq the Pre sent Clerk of the S"? Courts, but the S^ Thornton absolutely Refused to Deliver Either Books Papers or Seal unless we or some other Person or Persons would pay or Engage to pay to him the sum of fifty pounds, we therefore Entreat your Honour to Con sider the bad Consequence of this Extraordinary proceeding of M"" Thornton and to Take proper Method to Redress this great Injury be Speedily Recovering the S"? Books Papers and Seal out of his hands in order to Deliver the Same to the present Clerk, This is what offers with great Respect from your Honours very humble Serv'? Ezekiel Warner Robert Gibbs Jabez Bowen 1 Two committees were appointed in May, 1741. One was to ascertain if the secu rity given by Thornton for the funds of the colony in his hands was sufiicient. The other was to receive from him the county records, seal, and papers, as stated above. The votes of Assembly are upon the manuscript records, but are among the many omissions in Mr. Bartlett's edition. ig2 Correspondence of the DANIEL JENCKS, STEPHEN HOPKINS, AND OTHERS TO GOVERNOR WARD. Providence May i6'? 1741 Hond^ Sir This waits on you with a Relation of the pro ceedings of MT Richard Thornton late Clerk of this County Your HonT wiU be informed by the Com mittees Letter that pursuant to the Order of the Assembly they waited on MT Thornton in order to Receive the Seal Books Papers &c^ in his hands and deliver them to the present Clerk. And of his Refusal.^ And we being informed thereof by the said Comm'^' met Together to Endeavour to Recover our Records out of his Hands but after all the per suasions we were able to use, to our surprise were answered that he would not deliver them and that he would not be flattered nor Threatened into a Com pliance, whereupon this Court made an order that he should immediately deliver up to the s? Records &c? to the s"! Comm''" and if he Refused they would send a Officer to take them, which order was served upon him but he stiU continued obstinate in his Refusal. upon which this Court granted forth a Warrant to the Sheriff to go to the s^ Thorntons and take the Records &c and deliver them to the s? Com*" by virtue of which the Sheriff went to the s'? Thorntons House Attended by the Com'!' for that purpose and Demanded the s^ Records of the s? Thorntons Wife but she refused to deliver them the sheriff informed that he must search "for them and desired 1 See the preceding letter. Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 193 her to Open the doors which she did and he searched the Rooms where the Records Used to be Kept but could not find any of the Books of Records or the County Seal but only some files and loose papers which not being the Things that were principally wanted, the sheriff left them as he found them, and thuse finding ourselves disappointed in all our En deavours to Recover our Records which at this Time there is absolute necessity should be in the Clerks Hands: or private persons as well as the Goverm! wUl be put to the utmost dificulty, and Loss. And we Know of no way left but to apply our selves to Your Honour for Remedy in this Very Extraordinary Case, hopeing that the most Effectual Methods may be taken to prevent so Irreparable a Loss as that of all our County Records which we take the freedom to say we are in fear may soon be if the[y] are not already Destroyed. We beg to be excused for give- ing your Honour this Trouble and Remain with due Respects Your Honors Most Humble Servants Daniel Jenckes John Rice : Jn^ Robert Gibbs William Holden P S. Sir by order of the Judges after the above Letter was wrote I Waited on MT Thornton and read the same to him and Desired him to Comply and prevent farther Trouble but Her"* the same flatt denial as had been given to the Com'!' and Judges 194 Correspondence of the before so that he seems to be Resolved not to de liver the Records on any Terms at all - Stephen Hopkins To the Honble Richard Ward EsqT GovT of The Colony of Rhode Island GOVERNOR WARD TO THE SHERIFF OF PROVIDENCE COUNTY.^ Colony of Rhode Is^ George the Second by the Grace of God of Great Britain, France and Ireland King Defender of the Faith &c To the Sheriff of Our County of Newport Greet ing especially appointed for the Service of this Pre cept.^ Whereas, Complaint hath been made unto Us the Subscribers by Ezekiel Warner, Robert Gibbs and Jabez Bowen aU of Providence in the County of Providence Esq" That Richard Thornton of s? Provi dence EsqT the late Clerk of the Court of Common Pleas and General Sessions of the Peace establish 'd in the s? County of Providence hath refused to de liver the Records, Papers and Seal of s? Courts to the Complainants (who are a Committee appointed by the Gen! Assembly to receive the same and them to deliver to Stephen Hopkins EsqT the present Clerk of s? Courts) and that the s? Richard Thornton 1 See letters of May 15 and 16, 1741. 2 A precept is, in English law, a mandate in writmg, issued, pursuant to law, by an administrative officer. Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 195 at Providence afores? hath removed and doth feloni ously conceal and secrete s'? Records ; Papers and Seal from whence there is a great Suspicion that He the s? Richard Thornton hath embezled and utterly destroy'd the s? Records, Papers and Seal These are therefore in his said Maj? Name to com mand You upon Sight hereof to make diligent Search for the s? Richard Thornton and him if to be found within this Colony to apprehend and bring forthwith before the Superior Court of Judicature Court of Assize and Gen! Goal delivery now sitting at New port within and for the Colony afores? that He rnay be examin'd respecting the afores? Complaint and be further dealt with as the Law directs. And if the s? Richard Thornton shall be found in Prison for Debt, then the Sheriff who has the Care of him as a Pris oner is hereby ordered on Sight of this Precept to deliver him the s? Richard Thornton in order that He may be convey'd to the Superior Court to be examined and dealt with as afores? And upon Your receiving the s? Richard Thornton into your Custody You are commanded to take all imaginable Care to prevent his Escape from the Hands of Justice ; And You are further Required to make diligent Search for the said Records, Papers and Seal in any sus pected Places within this Colony and if need be You are hereby authorised to take especial Aid and As sistance with You and to break open any Locks or doors that may hinder your searching for the same, and if you should find the s? Records, Papers or Seal or any of them, then You are to deliver the same to the afores? Complainers. Hereof fail not and make ig6 Correspondence of the Return of this Precept with your doings. Given under our hands and Seals in Newport afores? May 20^!" 1 74 1 Rich? Ward Gov' W^ Greene D GovT P. Bours Assist! Endorsed: Colony of Rhode-Island May 22* 1 741 By Virtue of this Precept, I have made dUigent Search after the within Mentioned Richard Thorn ton, and found him in Goal in the County of Provi dence, on a Civil Action, there committed by the Sheriff of the s? County, and was by the s? Sheriff delivered to my Custody. Tho^ Potter Sher. THE HOUSE OF- MAGISTRATES TO THE HOUSE OF DEPUTIES. OctT29'' 1 741. To the House of Deputies. GentrFinding by the Return from the Town of Provi dence that Mt Richard Thornton^ is chosen One of the Deputys for that Town to represent them in this General Assembly, do not think proper to give him his Engagement to that office until we have the ¦ 1 See letters of May 15 and i6, and sheriff's precept of May 20. In June, the Assem bly voted that since Thornton had in his possession £2800, old tenor, belonging to the colony, a committee be appointed to demand security therefor. In August, the colony brought action against Thornton for the costs of the search for the court records described in the letters cited above. Bartlett's edition of the Records omits the entire August session. Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 197 Opinion of Your House for the following Reasons, vizt. For secreting and refusing to deliver the Records of the Inferior Court of Common Pleas and General Sessions of the Peace held in the County of Provi dence to a Committee appointed by the General As sembly to receive the Same ; for not discharging his Trust as a Committee Man for that Town in the Year 1738- and not yet delivering to the Grand Com mittee the Tenth Bonds for upwards of two thousand pounds. Pass'd per ordT Ja Martin Secretary. To the House of Mag*.' Gen*. This House are of Opinion that Mr Rich? Thorn ton is qualifyed for a Member of this House and pray he may be Engaged. Voted and past per Order J Lyndon Clerk RICHARD PARTRIDGE TO GOVERNOR WARD. London 3? mo. or May the is'? 1741 Governor Ward Thine of the 23 feb^ last I have received per Cap! Orrocks together with a packet for the Lords of Trade containing a Representation of the State of the Colony with respect to yo' paper currency^ which I deliverd the day after it came to my hands and 1 See Col. Rec. ofR. I., V. 8. 198 Correspondence of the hope it may be Satisfactory, but at Present that Board is adjournd for Some time Since the dissolution of the Parliam! and as I suppose most of them gone down into the Country about their Elections; nothing at all was done as I have already advised thee at the last Sessions of Parliam! with regard to Publick BiUs of Credit, but an Act has been pass'd for Suppress ing Banks Erected for Issuing BiUs or Notes by any Companys, agreeable to the Bill herewith sent thee, the printed part was as it stood when first it was bro! into the House and the written part of it are the amendm" which together now is past into a Law. herewith I also Send my acco! with the Colony the BaUance whereof in my favour is ;^2i3 : 15 : o StT which I hope wUl be remitted me in due time, with a further Supply to enable me to prosecute the Affairs of the Governm' and w** will be very acceptable to me. the War expected with France keeps off hitherto, and no great likelyhood of it at present. We are dayly in Expectation now of News from our Fleet in the West Indies The King is gone to Hannover and arrivd Safe in HolP about a week Since for the rest I refer to the News papers herewith sent and remain with due respects Thy assured Friend Rich? Partridge To Governour Ward. Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 199 GOVERNOR WARD TO THE DUKE OF NEWCASTLE. Newport June the 24^ 1741 May it please your Grace His Majesty's orders for Levying a Number of Men on an expedition against the Spaniards came safe to hand the latter End of April and was laid before the Assembly the first Wednesday of May^ who readily and chearfuUy complied therewith and shewed their Zeal for his Majestys Service in their giving a Bounty to each Person enlisting some con siderable time before any of the other Governments, which forwarded Us so much more than our Neigh bours that Wee soon filled up two Companys of one hundred Men each pursuant to his Majestys direc tion (before the Massachusets tho They are ten times as Numerous as Wee) who sailed the 1 3'? of SepT fol lowing for New. York agreeable to the Instructions I rec? from the honorable Col? Gooch in two good Topsail Vessels hired and fitted out with Provisions and all things necessary for their Transportation to the general Rendezvouz at the Colonys charge The Company raised on Rhode. Island was com manded by Samuel Dun Cap! Walter Chaloner 2°^ Lieu! Joseph Cook Ensign The officers of the Company raised on the main land are William Hopkins Cap! 1 May, 1740, is meant. See Col. Rec. of R. I., IV. 571. 200 Correspondence of the Thomas Brenton 2nd Lieu! W"? Smith Ensign With great Submission ST I assure you I esteem it a singular happiness this Colony is under your inspection ; and none shall more chearfuUy receive nor more readily observe his Maj''.' orders at all times communicated by your Grace to us. Hoping that our Conduct in this as well as in all others may be accepted by his Majesty and approved by your Grace which this Government shall esteem the great est honour can be done them May it please your Grace I am With the most pro found Respect Your most obedient and most humble Servant R. Ward Endorsed: Copy of Letter To his Grace the Duke of Newcastle Principle Secretary of State GOVERNOR ward TO RICHARD PARTRIDGE. Newp? July 15'." 1 741 Sr Yours of the 1 5'^ May with your Ace! stated came to hand with two Acts of Parliament for this Colony by Cap! Evers. I laid your former bill of MT Paris's and your Ace! as then stated before our Assembly in May who rose without doing any thing on it ; in their June sessions' They ordered a Committee to 1 In the June sessions of 1741, as entered upon the original records at the State House, there is provision made " that the Sum of One hundred and Fifty Pounds Ster- Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 201 remit You ^150 Sterling which I suppose You'l re ceive ere this comes to hand. I moved the lower house to make You a larger remittance but They declined it that time ; by your Ace! stated i ^^ of May there is ^213.15. due to ballance in your favour our Assembly will set in August I shall lay your Ace! before Them' and doubt not but They will remit You the full ballance and advance a considerable Sum to enable You to carry on our Affairs I shall press it forwards to the utmost of my power, you are strenuously to oppose any attempt that may be made ag^' our striking off any more bills of Credit without the Royal Assent. The Commissioners for setting the boundaries between the two Colonys have made a Judgment^ in our favour for the Gore ; and for three miles N.E. from the Mouth of Providence river and from Bristol harbour till They bring us over the Neck to the Eastern branch and then crossed the Bay and then gave us a p? of Land southward to the Sea of three miles in wedth. I am St With Respect Your obedient humble Servant ling be remitted to our Agent in London in the Kingdom of Great Britain for the Use of the Colony," and a committee was appointed " to draw the Same out of the General Treasury, and procure Gold, Silver, or BUls of Exchange, and send the Same to our said Agent by the first good Oportunity." 1 No record appears of any further emission in the August session. 2 See p. XX of the Introduction. Arnold, History of Rhode Island, II. 132, 133, gives an account of the judgment of the commission. 202 Correspondence of the GENERAL WENTWORTH TO GOVERNOR WARD.^ From the Camp on the River Humbsr IN THE Island Cuba Aug! 12^ 1 741. Sir, His Majesty having directed me to use my best Endeavours to recruit his forces under my Com mand, in his Colonies in North America, I have appointed Cap! Hopkins^ to repair for that end to your province, not doubting of your giving him all the assistance in your power, to Levy soldiers not only for Compleating Col? Gooch 's Regiment, but if practicable to raise a greater Number, either to fiU up vacancies in the two old corps, and in the Marines, or to form another Battalion, as it shall be found best for his Majesties Service. As I have here no means of supplying the recruit ing Officers with money. You will. Sir, be pleas'd to give the aforesaid Captain Credit for such sums, as may be wanted for that service, and to draw upon the Right Hon'''' Henry Pelham Esq'^ the Paymaster General for the said usd. As to the particular sums to be paid to the said Recruiting Officer, I Refer you to his Instructions which he will lay before you. All such as shaU Inlist themselves on this occa sion, will be Intitled to the Advantages offered by his Majesty, in his Instructions on the first raising Col° [Gooch's] Regiment. I don't doubt. Sir, but 1 Printed in Col. Rec. ofR. I., V. 30. 2 Captain William Hopkins, of Providence. « A prominent politician, nephew of the Duke of Newcastle, and a supporter of the Walpole administration; later, chancellor of the exchequer and prime minister. Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 203 you will take the proper measures for their being transported hither, to support which Charge I flatter myself the respective Provinces will make a provi sion, as all his Majesties dominions in the West Indies are particularly Interested in the Success of this Expedition. I am, St Your most obedient servant Tho? Wentworth To the Hon*"!' Richard Ward, EsqT Governour of Rhode-Island GENERAL WENTWORTH S ORDERS TO CAPTAINS HOPKINS AND WINSLOW. To Cap^ Hopkins^ and Winslow''' You are required without Delay to repair on board the Sea Horse Commanded by Cap! AUen Who is ordered by Vice Admiral Vernon to conduct You directly to North America. 2ndiy You are as soon as You land to repair to such Provinces, as You think the most likely to afford You Recruits, Of which You are to raise as Many as You •shall be able with aU Expedition. ydiy You are only to enlist able bodied Men, not exceeding Thirtyfive Years of Age, Nor are You to enlist any Native of Ireland, Except You have un doubted Proof of his being a Protestant, and of a good Character. 1 See note to preceding letter. 2 Doubtless John Winslow of Massachusetts (General Winslow of the Seven Years' War), who led a company of his own raising to Cartagena. 204 Correspondence of the ^thiy You are to apply to the Governour of the Pro vince, where You propose to raise Men, for Money to enable You to begin Your Recruiting, and may afterwards receive from Him, Four Pounds for each Man You shall have raised. Out of which is to be deducted the Sum, You shall have before received on Account. 5"")^ As an Encouragement for Gentlemen to assist You in raising Men, I shall reserve Twelve Vacan cies of Ensigns Commissions which shall be given to Those, Who shaU appear to Me, from a Certificate signed by the Governour of the Province, (where is the Seal of Your recruiting) And by Your Self, to have been the most Active in assisting You in rais ing Recruits, each Captain employed in raising Men to Certify for Six. gthiy -pj^g Recruits are to be subsisted at the Ex- pence of the Recruiting Officer, and He is to stand to aU Hazard of Death or Desertion, tiU They shaU be actually embarked, of Which no less than Fifty to be embarked at one Time ; After They shaU be embarked, They are to be subsisted at the Publick Expence, and any Loss by Death to fall upon the Regiment. As often as shall be practicable. Accounts are to be sent to the Officer, commanding Col? Gooche's Regiment, to be laid before the Commander in Chief, of the Number of Men raised, and of what Prospect there may be of raising More. Tho? Wentworth From the Camp in the Isle of Cuba August 12'." 1741. Endorsed : Copy Instructions from Gen! Went worth to Cap! Hopkins, 1741. Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 205 GOVERNOR WARD TO GENERAL WENTWORTH. sr Immediately after I had the honor of yours of the 12'!" Aug'.' per Cap! Hopkins I caUed the Assembly and laid your Letter before Them Who most read ily and chearfuUy concur'd in raising what forces we possibly could and accordingly gave orders for advancing such Sums of money as Cap! Hopkins's occasions might require ^ Beside the advantages Graciously offered by his Majesty we have given a further bounty of five pounds this Currency and a Watch Coat to every Soldier upon their Embarkation in the present expedition by which means we have raised upwards of fifty able- bodied Men and We have sent them in our Colony Sloop at our own charge. I heartily wish their quick and safe Arrival, that They may prove Acceptable to you and that our Conduct in this whole affair may have your Approbation That the Providence of God may succeed his Majestys just Arms under your present Conduct in every attempt against an unreasonable Enemy is the sincere desire of ST Your most obedi! and humble Serv! R : Ward 1 See the two preceding documents, and for proceedings of the Assembly, Col. Rec. OfR. I., V. 30. 2o6 Correspondence of the P. S Cap! Hopkins and Lieu! Chaloner have been very diligent and industrious in raising recruits and have given a general Satisfaction •To The Honourable Thomas Wentworth Esq. Brigadier Gen! and Commander in Chief of his majestys Forces In The West Indies. DANIEL UPDIKE^ TO THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY. To the Honorable the General Assembly of His Majesty Colony of Rhode Island &c. held [at] Newport within and for said Colony on the first Tuesday of Octob? a. d. 1741. I the Subscriber hereby inform the Honorable Assembly that I attended His Majesty Court of Commissioners for Setling the Bounds of the Col ony at their Sessions in Providence on the 7"" Day of April 1 74 1. And that I again attended said Court about the Twenty eighth Day of said month and con tinued to attend said Court which Set with smaU In termissions 'tUl June 3o'^ 1741 when final Judgment was given. In the Prossecution of which Business I postponed all other Concerns and gave up the Advantage of Providence Court which Set in said Time That I might be the better able to Serve the Colony. And I was at the Pains of arguing the Cause in Behalf of the Colony. Moreover when the said Court of Commissioners Set in Septemb. 1741. 1 Updike was attorney-general for the colony from 1722 to 1732, and from 1743 to his death, in 1757. He was one of the two attorneys who represented Rhode Island before the Boundary Commission of 1741. Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 207 I attended and assisted the rest of the Committee in entering an Appeal to His Majesty in CouncU. And further before the Setting of said Court I spent con siderable Time with others of the Committee in con sulting and advising about said Cause, And procured what ancient Papers I cou'd find that would Serve the Cause of the Colony. For all which Time and Service and Expence and Skill I apprehend I reason ably deserve One hundred and fifty Pounds. Which nevertheless is humbly submitted to the Judgment of the Honorable Assembly Daniel Updike Octob! 8'? 1 741 RICHARD PARTRIDGE TO GOVERNOR WARD. London 8"?' the 16. 1741 Governour Ward I have before me thy favours of the 15 July and 22'! August^ last and am heartily glad to understand that the Commissioners for settUng the Bound arys have determined so well in favour of the Col ony, If that Affair after all sh* come to be disputed here and the Comm" Judgm' appeald against I shall do my very utmost with the assistance of my Soli citor and Counsel to Support before the Lords of the Privy Council, not doubting but I shaU have Sufficient Instructions for that purpose. As to the hint thou givest me relating to a Com- 2 It was voted to allow Colonel Daniel Updike " the sum of £125 "for "his tune and service in the above mentioned affair." Col. Rec. ofR. I., V. 33. 2o8 Correspondence of the plaint of some of the Massachusetts People ag'.' the Colony touching Paper Money I shaU be diligent in my enquiry about it and use my utmost Endearvours therein for the Interest of the Colony, in Supporting their Rights and Privilidges as well before the Kings Ministers as in Parliam' and shall oppose any attempt that may be made to our prejudice, all which to be sure must necessarily be attended with considerable Expence, and I don't doubt but the Same will be con siderd by yoT Assembly and that I shall be suffi ciently furnished with what is necessary. I have lately received a Remittance from Geo : Goulding &c? of One Hundred and Ninety eight pounds 17/5 Sterl on acco' of the Colony of Rhode Island and Provid" Plantations w* I give their acco' Cred! for, and which I gratefully receive with due acknowledgm", I observe thy observations in the affair of the above Complaint w'"" wUl be of good use to me in checking any thing of that Nature and shall regard thy hint as to secrecy till I hear further about it, and shall give thee due Notice hereafter, as any proceeding may be had about it. I am with due respects Thy assured Fri Rich? Partridge No War w'^ France yet nor any likelyhood of a Peace with Spain the King is expected over from Hannover in 2 or 3 days. To Richard Ward EsqT Governour of the Colony of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 209 GENERAL WENTWORTH TO GOVERNOR WARD. Sir His Majesty having directed me to use my best Endeavours to recruit his forces under my Command in his Colonys in North America I have appointed Cap Hopkins^ Lieu' Chaloner and Lieu' Smith to repair for that purpose to your province not doubt ing of your giving them all the assistance in your power to levy Soldiers not only for compleating Coll Goochs Regiment, but if practicable to raise a greater Number either to fill up Vacancys in the two old Corps and in the marines or to form another Bat- tallion as it shaU be found best for His majestys Service. As I have no means of supplying the recruiting officers with money, you wiU, Sir, be pleased to give the aforesaid Captain, Credit for such Sums as may be wanted for that Service and to draw upon the Right Honourable Henry Pelham Esq' the Paymas ter General for the said use. As to the particular Sums to be paid to the said recruiting officer I re ferr you to his Instructions which he will lay before you. All such as wiU inlist themselves on this occasion will be intitled to the Advantages offered by His Majesty in his Instructions^ on the first raising CoU Gooch's Regiment. I dont doubt Sir, but you wiU take the proper measures for their being transported hither to support which charge I flatter myself the respective provinces will make a provision as all His 1 See note to letter of August 12, 1741. 2 See letter of January 5, 1740. 2IO Correspondence of the majestys Dominions in the West Indies are particu larly interested in the Success of this Expedition. I beg leave to assure you. Sir, that such young Gentlemen as shall give their assistance in raising men, and shaU be properly recommended, will be provided for in the Vacancys which may happen in Coll Gooch's Regiment. I shall Sir have a more par ticular regard to your friends being I am ST, Your most obedient humble Serv' Tho? Wentworth Kingston Jamaica 2*. ffebry 174J The Honble the Governour of Rhode Island. RICHARD PARTRIDGE TO GOVERNOR WARD. London 12'." mo. the 4. 1741 Governor Ward, The last I wrote thee was of the 8'^ of xber. Since which I have reed none of thy favours, all things remain quiet here respecting the Colony. As to Publick affairs There has been nothing brought into Pariiament yet relating to the Planta tions, the Sessions began the i'.' of xber last wherein pretty much of their time has been spent in setling the Controverted Elections, and some Endeavours used to Embarrass and distress the Ministry ; those in the Opposition to them were for having the State of the War and the Management of it retrospected and examind into by a Comittee of 21 Members to be elected by ballotting which occasiond warm and long debates, and upon a division of the House it Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 211 was rejected in favour of the Court by a Majority of 3. there being 508. Members Present in the whole, a greater Number than ever I knew together before. Our Merchants complain heavily of their losses by the Spaniards which indeed has been very great, for that upw"!' of 335. Ships and Vessels have been taken since the present War began, and now they are apply ing to Parlm' for redress for the futre wherein I am apt to think they will succeed, but at present they are at a stop by the Kings coming to the House of Ld? yesterday and desir? the Parliam' to adjourn them selves to the i8'? Ins' which was done accordingly and Last night ST Rob! Walpole they say resignd up all his Places to the King which occasiond a Consid erable alteration in the Ministry:-' its said L*! Wil mington wUl be first Commissioner of the Treasury and Doddington Esq' Chanl' of the ExcheqT in his room, L? Carteret Presid' of the CouncU, and the Duke of Argyle reinstated into Offices and favour again, L'! Chesterfield Sec'' of State and L"? Grenard first Comissioner of the Admiralty in the room of St C W ^ but some of these changes must not fully be relyed on for fact till there is a con firmation thereof ; during the Recess its very prob able the settlement of the Ministry will be fixed and some new measures enterd into respecting the Publick. but some yet doubt very much when there 1 For two years the popular opposition to Walpole had been steadily increasing, and his majority in the House gradually disappeared during the winter of 1741-42. His resignation took place February 2, 1742. 2 Sir Charles Wager, who retired from the Admiralty in March, 1742, and was in December appointed treasurer of the navy. He died in the following May. 212 Correspondence of the are alterations made in the Ministry about the King, whether any of those who have been in the oppo sition to the late measures wiU be put into Office. Time will soon manifest it I am with due respects to thy Self and the Gen tlemen of the CouncU and House of Representa tives Thy assured Friend Rich? Partridge I send thee herewith some News Papers to w"^ I refer desiring thy acceptance of them. GOVERNOR WARD TO THE DUKE OF NEWCASTLE. Newport Feb: I o'? 1 74^ May it please your Grace The hon''!^ Brigadier Wentworth commander in chiefe of his Majesties Land Forces in the West Indies having tho't proper to make application to Several of the Provinces in the British Dominions in North America to raise Recruits for his Majesties army greatly diminished by Sickness and the Events of Warr ; and having sent especial directions to this Colony of Rhode Island with proper officers for raising such a Number of men as could be done with conveniency (in Conformity to his Majesties pleasure signified to us by your Grace) ^ I immediately upon receiving his orders called the Assembly together who voted and ordered the raising as many men as the s'* officers could inlist herein without Limitation 1 See letter of February 2, 1742. Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 213 of Number. And further in their great Zeal for his Majesties Service and as an encouragem' for the more effectual and speedy raising the same Enacted that a Bounty of five Pounds this Currency and a Watch coat (over and above his Majesties bounty) should be given to each effective that should be inlisted in his Majesties service.^ In consequence whereof the s"^ officers have enlisted in this small Colony fifty three Able Men, which embarked and saild from this place the twenty seventh Day of December, in a Vessel built at the expence of the Colony on purpose for the defence of our Coasts and protection of our Trade and is well equipped with a sufficient number of men, Cannon, small Arms, and other warlike Stores to defend her from ; or even to attack the Enemies Privateers ; the Cap! has or ders To deliver the said Recruits at Cuba or at such other Place as he shall find his Maj''.' Army encamped and altho the Number of these Recruits may appear to your Grace but small yet if it be considered what a small proportion this Colony bears to the neigh boring Provinces and the Number of Levys we sent the last year we make no doubt but your Grace will be of Opinion that we have greatly exceeded our Quotas. The Great Expence of this Colony caus'd by the War has laid us under a Necessity of encreas- ing th6 quantity of our Paper Currency which causes heavy complaints from some of our neighbours but we humbly hope that when his Majesty is truly informed of our Circumstances and the great Zeal we have shown for his Service we shall meet with 1 See Col. Rec. ofR. I., V. 30. 214 Correspondence of the his gracious approbation of all our Conduct As also your Graces Patronage for this Colony if any Attempts should be made (by those who envy our happiness) to deprive us [of] our Priviledges. I heartily wish success to his Maj^.' Counsels and Arms and that your Grace may long continue in his favour and be an instrument of doing good as well to this Colony as to the rest of his Maj^:' dominions. May it Please your Grace I am. With the greatest Respects Your most obedient and most humble Servant R. Ward Endorsed: To the Duke of Newcastle 174J. GOVERNOR WARD TO RICHARD PARTRIDGE. Newport April 21* 1742 sr Your favT' of the 22'? Feb: and 12*!^ March were this day received for which I return you hearty thanks. Herewith you'l receive the Case as it was heard before his Majestys Court of Comissioners and the Judgment they gave thereon respecting the Eastern Boundaries of this Colony towards the Pro vince of the Massachusetts.' You will observe we have appealed from that Judgment and (if the inclosed state of the Case or Arguments in the Colonys behalf be thought worthy of notice) will communicate Them to the Gentlemen whom you shall employ on our I See p. XX of the Introduction. Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 215 Part. I doubt not you will puruse this affair with utmost application and if you shaU find it necessary for this Colony to make you any further remittances for the carrying on this affair let Them be timely apprised of it that you may be seasonably supplied your steady and diligent pursuit of this appeal will recommend you to the favT of the Government who have the Case at heart I am ST Your sincere friend R. Ward Mt Richard Partridge Merch! In London. GOVERNOR ward TO RICHARD PARTRIDGE. Newport April 26" 1742 Doctor Teddeman Hull the bearer hereof being bound for London and wholly a Stranger their and unknown to your Selfe and in order that you may know the Character of the Gentlem I inform you that he is the Son of Cap! John Hull late of this Colony (under whom ST Charles Wager was edu cated) ^ and has the Character of an honest man, he has sustained the part of a Justice of Peace divers Years amongst us and has been several times for merly and latterly a Representative for the Town of James Town; he is a facetious Temper and has a fair Interest in Lands. I have sent you via Boston a Copy of the Case of 1 See note on p. 76. 2i6 Correspondence of the our Eastern Boundarys and the State thereof drawn up by our CouncU and a Letter To the Duke of New-Castle containing an Ace! of our Recruits for Gen' Wentworth, which I hope youl receive Safely: I am St your Assured friend R. Ward To Mt Richard Partridge Merch! In London THE COMMISSIONERS OF CUSTOMS TO THE GOVERNOR AND COMPANY OF RHODE ISLAND. Sir The Bearer hereof Thomas Lechmere EsqT^ being deputed by us pursuant to a Warrant from the Lords CommissT' of the Treasury to the Surveyor General of the Northern part of the Continent of America in the room of John Peagrum Superceeded. And he having received Instructions from us for the more effectual putting in execution the Laws relating to Trade and Navigation. We desire you will please to be assisting with your Authority to the said Lech mere and the other Officers of the Customs under his Inspection as they shall have occasion to apply to You and that You will Strictly command all Offi cers and Ministers employd under You to be assist ing to them in putting in Execution the Laws against 1 At one time surveyor of the port of Boston. He married Ann, daughter of Wait Winthrop, of Connecticut, and was the defendant (in behalf of his wife) in the famous case of Winthrop vs. Lechmere. Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 217 iUegal Trade that the Service under our Management may be effectually carried on. We are Sir Your most humble serv'.' Custom H° Lond"! 16 May 1742 CHANDLER J. Evelyn S Anson John Hill To The Hon*"'.' GovT and Company of His Majesty's Colony of Rhode Island &c America GOVERNOR WARD TO THE HOUSE OF DEPUTIES. To the House of Deputies, Gent? This being the Sessions for granting my Salary for the Year past, desire You'l pass a Vote for the Same and likewise to consider of the extraordinary Services and Pains that I have been obliged to trans act in the Year past of which You are not unac quainted with, and therefore expect You'l allow me a reasonable Compensation, and pass a Vote to enable me to draw both out of the General Treasury.^ I am Gent" Your faithful and Assured Friend and humble Serv' Rich? Ward June 23? 1742 To the House of Mag'? 1 The Assembly voted that the sum of £350 be paid the govemor " for his last Years Salary and extraordinary Services." See the manuscript records for June 2t, 1742. 2i8 Correspondence of the RICHARD PARTRIDGE TO GOVERNOR WARD. London s'f mo : or July 14. 1742 Goif. Ward My last to thee was of the 8'^ Ins! Via New York of which I Send thee a Copy. My Solicitor has Since that as he acquaints me read over the whole Case and Record of the ComT' But for want of the Plan (which is not Sent me with the Papers) he cannot make any usefull application : Enquiry hath been made Both at The Council Office and Board of Trade but no Copys of the Record nor yet of the Plan is Sent in thither. However as the Case is Cir cumstanced our Pet° of Appeal is drawn up, Engrost and ready to present against next Council day that we may get the Start of our Antagonists (as theirs is not yet Lodged) which we apprehend wo'? be an Advantage to us in haveing the Privilidge of Reply at the Hearing by our Counsel. Altho' we can present our Pet? of Appeal, yet we Cannot pretend to bring it forw? to a hear! nor Scarse to prepare for itt, with out a Plan, the Case being very long and obscure as it is, which would be illus trated by the Plan, and therefore pray Send it me as Soon as possible, and mark the Copy of itt how we are to Claim the Boundaries for if the Original Shoud be Sent over to the Masachusets Agent and be in his Custody the Addition to it of a Word, or a line or Even a Mark may hurt our Cause, and we have no possibility of Checking it here ; the Com'.' I understand ordered all the Original papers to be Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 219 deposited in the Sec':' Office at N : Y : ^ and what is wanting may be had there if the Colony has 'em not already Att the Same time please to Send me over also the Printed and Manuscript Book^ in 1632, 1634, 1646, 1652, 1674, 1677 (if it can be) which the Massach!' offered, but which the Com? rejected, because our SolT thinks the Masach'.' will try here to get them Received, for perhaps the Lords may be willing to Receive all the Light they Can have and we ought to be acquainted before hand of what it is the Masach'.' May have to offer against Us, and we Shall in the meantime Endeavour to keep off the Hearing tUl I hear from thee in Answere Hereto. Since writing the foregoing our Pet? of Appeal being ready I have got a Copy of it made out which I Send thee herewith. 16^ ditto. The King Came to the House of Lords Yesterday and put an End of the Sessions of Parliament : the Speech he made on that Occasion I Send thee in the inclosed Print : no War with France Yett, I am with Respects Thy assured Friend R? Partridge 23 ditto I send thee some Prints per this Convey? to T: Hutchinson EsqT of Boston to forward to thee To Governor Ward. 1 The reference is to the boundary commission of I74r, by whose order the records of the court were deposited there. Arnold, History of Rhode Island, II. 133. 2 Probably the records of the work of former commissions dealing with the disputes with Plymouth, Massachusetts, and Connecticut over the various claims to the Narra gansett country. Arnold, History of Rhode Island, I. See Index. 220 Correspondence of the GENERAL WENTWORTH TO CAPTAIN HOPKINS.^ Kingston Jama Octo! 8'? 1742 Sr As His Majestic has been pleased to put an End to the Expedition,^ And to Order me to reduce Col° Gooch's Regiment, And to send them to the North ern Colonys, I take this first Oportunity of Signi fying to you, that it is his Majesties Pleasure that you put an End to your Recruiting, and that you do without delay after this Letter shall reach you, dis charge such Men as you may have raised for the Service of the said Regiment. And you are hereby directed to draw out your Recruiting Accounts, and send them forthwith to Col? Gooch in Virginia, desiring him to send them by the first Oportunity to Cap! Alexander Wilson I am, St Your most humble Serv' Tho? Wentworti' To Cap! William Hopkins of Col? Gooch's Regim' at Rhoad Island. GENERAL WENTWORTH TO GOVERNOR WARD. Sir His majesty having Signifyed To me That it is his Pleasure That The Expedition Design 'd by his 1 See note to letter of August 12, 1741. ' For an account of the expedition against the Spanish West Indies, see page 143. Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 221 Land forces against The King of Spains Domin ions In South America, Should be putt an End To, and that the Regiment Commanded by Coll Gooch, Should be Immediately Reduced, and That I Should Send Back To north America all such Soldiers of That Regiment, as do not Choose To Remain here In The Plantations, or To Serve in Companys on board The Fleet ; I have taken The best measures In my Power for Executing The above orders, and accordingly have Dispatcht Transports To The Ports, from whence The Soldiers may be most Con veniently Dispersd To Their Respective habitations ; Every man having Received his full Pay To Octo ber the 24'? his Firelock, and The Cloathing of which he was Possesst, at The Time of his Reduc tion, according To what his majesty was Graciously Pleasd To Promise, att The first Raising The Regi ment. As Some of The men wiU Probably arrive feeble, and Sick, I beg Leave Sir, To Recommend it To you. That They may be Commodiously Convey'd To Their Respective habitations, as men who have undergone a good Deal of hazard, and hardships. During The Course of Their service In This Part of The world I am, ST Your most obedient Serv' Tho? Wentworth Kingston Jamaica October 15 1742. His Excellency The Governor of Rhoad Island. 222 Correspondence of the governor WILLIAM SHIRLEY^ TO GOVERNOR WARD, Sir Being informed that your Honour has divers Span ish Prisoners with you, brought in by Cpt. Rouse, and among them some Persons of Consequence, namely an Officer or two in the Land Service, and a Captain of a Privateer and a Master of a Schooner ; which two last are good Pilots, as well in the Span ish West Indies as on the Coasts and Harbours of the English in North America; And apprehending it to be the Duty of the Governours of the Planta tions to correspond with each other for their mutual Assistance, in all Matters wherein his Majesty's Ser vice and the Interest and Safety of the Provinces are concerned ; I thought it proper to acquaint you that it is my Opinion that Prisoners of such Conse quence should be sent home, and delivered to one of his Majesty's Secretaries of State, with a fuU Acco! of their Charecters and Circumstances, to prevent any ill Effects of their being left at large, and that 1 Shirley was governor of Massachusetts from 1741 to 1757. He was born in Sus sex, England, and emigrated to Boston in 1731, where he became a persistent place- hunter. He was conspicuous in raising troops for Cathcart's expedition, in 1740. In 1 741 he served on the commission to settle the Rhode Island boundary. As gov ernor he was noted for his determined attempts to restrain the colonial issues of paper money, and for his part in military affairs. The capture of Louisburg was due to him, as regards both the idea and its execution. From 1749 to 1753 he was on leave of absence. In 1755 he led an unsuccessful expedition against Niagara. Upon Braddock's death, Shirley was made commander-in-chief of the British forces m Amer ica, but he had incurred the displeasure of the New York politicians, who intrigued until he was superseded in his command. In 1756 he was ordered to England by Lord Loudoun, who held him responsible for the loss of Oswego, and was removed from his governorship in the following year. He was made governor of the Bahamas, returned to Massachusetts in 1770, and died there in 1771. He was buried in King's Chapel, Boston. J. A. Doyle in Diet. Nat. Biog. Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 223 the Governm' may dispose of them in such man ner as may be most for his Majesty's Service. Your Honour will excuse me that I use this Freedom, and I pray that you wiU take the Uke with me, as Occa sion shall require. I am. Sir, Your Honour's most Obedient, Humble Servant W Shirley. Boston NovemT 8. 1742. Hon''!^ GovT Ward. RICHARD partridge TO GOVERNOR WARD. London 12 mo or feb' 21" i74f. Govr Ward Thy favour of the 6'!" DecT last I have received with the Copy of the Plan referred to in the Colonys State of their Case and allmost at the same time came to hand from New York an Authenticated Plan of the same of a larger Size — certified by the Surveyor Gen!' and the Collector and the Chief -Justice three of the Commiss'.', and now I apprehend we are Suf ficiently Provided with wh! is necessary to Instruct our Council and prepare for the Hearing upon our appeal, which I intend shall be prosecuted with all Convenient Expedition, for Since Receiving the Plan we have already got the Cause sett down in the List at the Council Office for a Hearing before the Lords Committee of Council to whom our Petition of Ap peal was Referred, because there are several Causes down allready before us, and we would get as early a Turn as Possible, it being for our Interest (as we 224 Correspondence of the Judge) to be the Partys that apply to bring it on. The Colony may depend on my best Endeavours in the Course of the proceedings towards bringing it to a good Issue for us, and I do gratefully acknowledge their favour in keeping me duly Supplyed having lately had a Remittance from Peter Bours and Jos : Whipple Esq'.' Our Briefs long as they are were all Prepared last Summer but Could not get the Case ready for Print ing before, but now we may do it In this Session of Pariiam! nothing has been ex hibited to the prejudice of the Plantations, Matters are Carried on there by a Considerable Majority, in such as Concern the King and its thought they will break up in about a Month or 6 Weeks time more, and that its Probable there will be yet Some more Changes in the Ministry, the War with Spain like to Continue, but we have none with France yet, for the Rest I referr to the Prints herewith sent, and Remain with Dew Respects to thy Self and the Gentl? of the Council, Thy Assured Friend, Rich? Partridge We have engaged the attorney General^ and the famous CounselT Murray^ who is now SolT Gen! as Counsel for us on our Side Leon"^ Lockman' appointed Judge of the Admi- 1 St. George Canfield, appointed in 1742. 2 William Murray, who gained popularity by his eloquent support of the Spanish war in the House of Commons. He was attorney-general to the Newcastle adminis tration, was made lord chief justice of the King's Bench in 1756, and first Earl of Mansfield in 1776. 8 See note to letter of 3 mo. (May) 28, 1743. „ Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 225 ralty of yoT Colony goes over per the first Man of War that goes that way To Richard Ward, EsqT Governor and ComandT in chief of the Colony of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations the duke of newcastle to the governor and company of rhode island. George R. Trusty and Welbeloved, We greet You well. Whereas the Sieur Hop Envoy Extraordinary from our Good Friends and Allies, the States General of the United Provinces, has made Strong and repeated Complaints to Us,-' that since the Commencement of the present War with Spain, the Captains and Offi cers of Our Ships of War, and others acting under Our Commission, have, without any Regard to the Terms of the Treaty of Marine^ between our Royal Predecessor King Charles the Second, and their High Mightinesses the States General of the United Neth erlands, concluded at London the i'.' Day of De cember 1674 S. V. confirmed by Subsequent Trea- tys, frequently made prize of Dutch Ships and their Cargoes as weU in Europe, as in America, upon pre tence of their having on board Spanish Effects, tho' not contraband ; And it being Our Royal Intention that all Engagements, which Subsist between Us, 1 See letter of July 14, 1743. 2 This was a renewal of the Marine Treaty of 1668, which defined the rights and obligations of neutral nations. 226 Correspondence of the . And Our said good Friends and Allies the States General should be most carefully and religiously ob served ; It is therefore Our wiU and Pleasure, and We do hereby authorize, and empower You to en joyn all Captains of Ships to whom you shall grant Let ters of Marque, or Commissions, for private Men of War against the King of Spain and his Subjects, to observe carefully and religiously the said Treaty Marine, and give Security pursuant to the Tenth Article for their due performance thereof. And so We bid you Farewell. Given at Our Court at S! Jame's the Thirteenth Day of April 1743. in the Sixteenth Year of Our Reign. By His Majesty's Command Holles Newcastle To Our Trusty and Welbeloved The Governor and Company of Rhode Island and Providence Plantation in America, Or to the Governor and Company of the said Col ony for the time being. RICHARD PARTRIDGE TO GOVERNOR WARD. London 3? month 28. 1743 Govr Ward, I Apprehend it my Duty to Acquaint thee that of late the Crown has appointed Naval Officers in Sev erall Governments of the Plantations one reason for which as I understand is that it is more likely the Acts of Trade and Navigation wo? then better be put Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 227 in due Execution than by those who are Appointed in the Colony by the respective Governor's tho' by Act of Parliament ^ the right is in the GovT Among the rest Leonard Lockman "^ a Person Commissioned to be Judge of the Admirality of your Colony is also now made Naval Officer who goes over in the Tor- rington Man of War by way of N. York, and as I take this to be prejudicial to the right of our Charter as well as to the GovT I judged it proper to exhibit a Petition against such Nomination, a Copy whereof comes inclosed' which is lodged at the Council Office but tUl I have Instructions from the Colony I shall not prosecute it but let it lye dormant, least it sho? at this time prejudice our Colony otherwise in a greater degree having heard some Hints thrown out against us which if prosecuted here might prove Dis- advantagious to us all tho' at present they are winked at, however when the said Lockman gets over and the Colony shall think fit to refuse to Admit him as Naval Officer and give me Instructions to defend their rights in that respect I shaU act accordingly. 1 See letter of October 29, 1743. 2 A committee was appointed by the General Assembly to inspect Lockman's patent as clerk in the naval office, and reported that the office was in the appointment of the colonial govemor, not of the Crown. This report was accepted. As judge of vice- admiralty, Lockman found himself so hampered that he complained to the Crown, and his complaints occasioned an especial answer from the General Assembly {Col. Rec. of R LY 96). The true inwardness of this stand for privilege on the part of the colo nists would seem to be found in Partridge's suggestion that upon the appointment of a naval officer by the Crown the Acts of Trade and Navigation would be more strictly executed. So far as the office of judge of admiralty was concerned, we find the Assembly, in the session of March, 174J, voting that, "Whereas, the judge of admi ralty, for this colony, being gone home for Great Britain, and his deputy appomted here, declining to serve any longer ;- It is therefore voted, that M'. John Gidley, of Newport, in the county of Newport, be, and he is hereby appointed judge of the admiralty for this colony, until a person be properly appointed from home, to that office." Col. Rec. ofR. I., V. 60. 3 See the following document. 228 Correspondence of the He says he shaU appoint J. Honyman his Deputy and has got leave for it from the Lords of the Admi ralty here. Our Cause relating to the Boundarys is now the Sixth on the List for hearing before the Lords Com°.° of Council but it's thought that it will be the fall of the Year before it will be possible to bring it on to be heard. I am. Thy Assured ffriend Rich"? Partridge 4 month lo*? Our good Fr* ST Cha. Wager ^ is lately deceased. The King is gone to Germany and its expected will bring about an Accommodation between the Queen of Hungary and the Emperor leaving the French in the Lurch. If that be done probably we may have a Peace with Spain but this last is uncertain yet R P To Richard Ward Esq' Governour and Commander in Chief of the Colony of Rhode Island and Providence Plan tations RICHARD PARTRIDGE TO THE LORDS JUSTICES.^ To the Lords Justices in Council The Humble Petition of Rich^ Partridge Agent for the Colony of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations in America Sheweth That by Charter under the Great Seal 1 See note on p. 211. a Enclosed in letter of 3 mo. (May) 28, 1743, RICHARD WARD 1 740- 1 743 Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 229 King Charles the Second Incorporated GovT and Comp? of the s'? Colony and for valuable Considera tions granted them sundry necesary ' Powers and Privilidges for the well ordering and good Goverm' thereof and more especially Powers to constitute proper Offices. That the Laws and Statutes of this Kingdom have invested the GovT of all his Maj'^ Colonys with the Power of appointing the Naval Officers in the same and for whom those Govern? are answerable. In consequence whereof not only the GovT of Rhode Island but of all the others of his Maj'^' Colonys whatsoever have from time to time constituted the Naval Officers from the first Erection of that Office to the present time without any Exception to the contrary, that yoT PetT is able to discover. But yoT Petitioner is very lately informed that Leon* Lockman EsqT hath obtained or is applying to obtain a Warrant or a Grant under the great Seal to the Naval Officer of Rhode Island during his Maj*^' pleasure. Which Information makes it indidspensible duty of yoT PetT as Agent for the s* Colony humbly to represent That such an Appointm! of the s* Leon* Lockman is as yoT PetT humbly apprehends prejudi cial to the Rights and Privilidges vested in the s* GovernT and Comp? not only by their Charter but also by the Acts of Parliament. And may be of the greatest Inconvenience to Trade and Commerce in those parts, since that the Rule for carrying on the same as laid down by the Acts of Parliament require all Persons Tradeing 230 Correspondence of the thither to make Entrys and Perform Sundry Acts before the Naval Officer appointed by the Governour and if omitted lay the Traders under Penalties and forfeitures of no less than Ship and Cargoe. Your Petitioner therefore most humbly prays that you would not permit such Warrant or Grant to pass to the s* Leonard Lockman. And that in Case the same has already passed the same may be revoked and determined with an Order to the s* Lockman not to proceed to Act under the same untill you may have received satisfaction therein. All which is humbly Submitted Rich? Partridge ANDREW STONE TO THE GOVERNOR OF RHODE ISLAND. Whitehall 14*." July 1743. Sir, A MemoriaP from MoT Hop, Minister from the States General to his Majesty, having been laid be fore their Excellencies the Lords Justices, complain ing, that a Bark of Cura9oa named La Gertrude, Captain Samuel Baal Commander, being at Anchor near Rio de la Hache, in order to take in Wood and Water, was attacked by Three English Privateers, commanded by Robert Flowers, John Rous and Wil liam Wilkinson who seized upon the said Bark, and carried her into Newport in Rhode Island, notwith standing, after visiting her, they had found no coun- terband Goods on board, and that the Court of 1 See next document for a translation of the Memorial; also letter of March 15, 1744. Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 231 Admiralty there had condemned the said Bark in Consequence of which She was confiscated, and the Produce divided amongst the Captors contrary to the Treatys subsisting between His Majesty and the Republick; I am commanded by their Excellencies. to signify their Directions to you, that you do im mediately procure, and send over hither to be laid before them the proceedings of the said Court of Admiralty,^ upon the Tryal of that Vessel, with a full Account of the Reasons which induced the said Court to proceed to the Condemnation of her, I am Sir, Your most obedient humble Servant. Andrew Stone Governor of Rhode Island translation of the DUTCH COMPLAINT AGAINST PRIVATEERS.^ Wherease, Abraham Diaz Coutino and ComT Mer- cha'.^ Inhabitants under our Jurisdictions and Sub ject to their High Mightyness's the States Generall of the Netherlands, to us the Governour have made knowen, that they on the 23* of AprU 1743. on their own accounts and Risques did fitt out from hence their Sloop Named the Juffro Sarah, Commanded by Schipper Coenvaat Huybling, to Trade to all the Free Ports in the West Indies, since which the above 1 In the session of February, 1744, a committee was appointed by the Assembly to answer the letter of the Lords Justices, and to send home a copy of the decree of the court of vice-admiralty. Col. Rec. of R. I., V. 79. 2 Enclosed with letter of July 14, 1743, 232 Correspondence of the named owners, have been well Informed, that the s* Sloop being on the High Sea of Commena, was on the 1 7'.'' July, 1 743. taken by an English Privateer Com missioned by your Honour, Commanded by Cap! Wil liam Hopkins which takeing is Directly Contrary to the Treaty between his Majesty of Great Brittain and their High Mightyness's the States GeneraU. the s* Privateer being ready to Engage that the s? Schipper was obliged to Strike, the Privateer then Boarded him and Proceeded with him and his Sloop for your Honour's Jurisdictions as LawfuU Prize, which seemes very strange to us that a Privateer under the English Goverment should Act in such a manner, not only so, but also not to pay any regaurd to the Declara tion of his Majesty of Great Brittain, of this Present year 1743, made at the Instances of their High Mightyness's which sf Declaration was Signed by the Lord Carteret and authentick Coppey of which wee had the Honour to receive by the last Vessells arrived here from HoUand In which Declaration His Majesty of Great Brittain Declares to all the Gov ernours in America that they Pay a Due Regaurd to the Maritime Treaty of the i'.' DecT 1674. and Punc tually observe the same. Pursuant to which wee Pray your Honour that the s* Sloop be sett Free with Every thing belonging to her (thats not Con traband) as also that she be allowed all the Charges she's been put to, and wee shall allways think it our Duty to RetaUiate and to keep up a Good Friend ship between the Subjects of his Majesty of Great Brittain and those of their High Mightyness's the Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 233 States Generall. wee are with much Respect and Friendship Your Honour's Friend and Most Humble Serv' J. Faesch. Curacao, 30 July 1743. RICHARD PARTRIDGE TO GOVERNOR GREENE.* London s month or July 28'? 1743 Gov^ Green, As thou art Elected GovT of Rhjode Island I take it to be my duty to Write thee Concerning the Affairs of the Colony depending here w* at present are as follows, — I did some time since Write over Advising that one Leonard Lockman who is Ap pointed Judge of the Admiralty in your Colony had also obtained a Grant from the Crown to be Naval Officer w'^.'' I apprehending to be an infringement on the Priviledges of your Charter had Petitioned the Lords Justices against the said appointment^ w".'* Petition lyes still at the Council Office, and shall not proceed further on it till I have proper Instructions, neither do I find I can till it be known whether the Colony thinks fit to Admit him or not when he comes there, if they sho* not. The labouring Oar will then be upon him if he shall see meet to Exhibit any Complaint : I suppose he is yet at Portsmouth wait- 1 Greene was deputy-governor in 1741 and r742, and elected governor in 1743, 1744, 1746, 1748 to 1755, and in 1757. He died in February, 1758. He was prominent in Rhode Island politics as the candidate of the Ward party in the famous Ward-Hop kins controversy, which came first to the front in 1755. 2 See note to letter of May 28, r743. The Lockman affair was still pending settlement in 1749. See letters of October 29, 1743, February i and 23, 1744, and that of Governor Greene to Partridge, June 18, 1749; also in Col. Rec. of R. I., V. 270. 234 Correspondence of the ing to go over via New York by a Ship who Sails per the first fair Wind, As to the Grand Affair of the Colonys ab! the Boundarys with the Massach'.' our Petition of Appeal was first lodged as I have already advised in due time and set down on the Ust According as the man ner is at the Council Office for a hearing before the Lords Committee of CouncU, but as yet ours does not come on, and do what we can I believe it wiU be ab! October next before it will come forward ^ in the mean time We shall be duly prepared and our Coun cil Instructed and hope we shall at length have it happily Issued for us. As to Publick News thou willt doubtless have heard of the Victory our King with his Army in Germany obtained over the ffrench under the Com mand of their General the Marshall Noailes altho' the latter were Considerably Superiour in Number. The Duke of Cumberland was Wounded but like to do very well again. The King received no hurt. As both these Armies are looked upon as Auxilia ries only, the one to the Queen of Hungary and the other to the Emperor its very questionable whether the Consequence wUl be attended with a general ffrench War. Prince Charles Brother in law to the Queen of Hungary and her famous Generalissimo is arrived at Hannaco to concert further Measures with our King w'> probably will be to drive the ffrench out of Germany and then endeavour to take Lorrain, from them for the said Queen by way of some Compensa- 1 See letter of Partridge to Deputy-Governor Whipple, written 4ber (June) 15, 1744. Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 235 tion, for the rest I referr to the Prints now sent and remain Thy Assured ffriend RicH° Partridge To William Green EsqT Governour and Commander in chief of the Col ony of Rhode Island and Providence Planta tions THOMAS CORBETT^ TO THE GOVERNORS IN AMERICA. Copy of a Letter from MI Corbett to the several Governors of his Majesty's Colonies in America, dated the io, whereof was Subscribed towards it by Merchants and others of the said Col ony of Rhode Island in a private Capacity which was sent to assist in the said Expedition and no part thereof brought in the said Colonys Account. And that thy Petitioner hath Instructions from the said Governour to make Application here for the Reimbursments of their said Expence. Wherefore thy Petitioner humbly prays that thou wouldst be pleased to take the Premises into thy Royal Consideration and grant the said Colony of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations such relief therein for what they have disbursed as aforesaid, as the King in his Wisdom shall See meet. All which is humbly submitted Rich? Partridge London 2* month on April 15'.'' 1746 1 See a list of prizes taken between March 31, 1744, and April, 1746, in the Gent. Mag. (1746), p. 270. The captures made off Louisbourg are estimated at £101,600. 41 6 Correspondence of the GOVERNOR CLINTON TO GOVERNOR WANTON. New York 31. March 1746. Sir I acquainted you the 27 January last,* that Com mittees of both Houses had Requested me to appoint Commiss'' to treat with Commissioners to be ap pointed by the Neighbouring Governments, touching our mutual Security and defence during the present War. I have accordingly appointed Commissioners for that purpose. So has Governour Shirley, and I hope the like Steps will be taken by your Govern ment without delay. In the mean time I've Inclosed Abstracts of the Minutes of the Commissioners of Indian affairs of 25 February last. Containing the Resolution of the six Nations of Indians, as Sig nified by the Interpreter, in Answer to my Mes sage, requiring them to Enter into the War with us, against the French and Indians in Alliance with them, that it may appear to you, how highly it im ports the several Colonys upon the Continent, to Unite their Endeavours with this. Effectually to pre serve the Six Nations, and the other Indians in Alli ance with us, and them, in their Fidelity to his Majesty, and Dependance upon the British Interest, as all are so nearly Concerned in the Consequences of their Revolt, which seems next to be Apprehended, since they have refused engaging in the War. I am very much Sir Your obedient humble servant G. Clinton The Hono''!^ Gid'!^ Wanton EsqT 1 See letter of tliat date ; also of May 26, 1746. Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 417 GOVERNOR SHIRLEY TO GOVERNOR GREENE.^ Boston May 12. 1746 Sir, As His Excellency Governour Clinton of New York has sent Circular Letters to the several Govern ours on the Continent as far as Virginia, to propose a Convention of Commissioners from each Govern ment to consult upon Measures for carrying on the War against the Common Enemy. And I find no other Fruit of this seasonable Proposal so much for the Honour of his Majesty's Government and the Safety of his Subjects, but the chearful and ready Compliance of this Single Province (who have chosen Commissioners for this Purpose) I think my self obliged in common Humanity to my fellow Subjects (who are daily suffering under this bloody and sav age War) as well as in Duty to his Majesty, to second these Proposals of Mr. Clinton with my earnest Soli citations that this Affair may be once more seriously considered by the several Governments in all its Circumstances ^ It is well known that such is the Situation of the French in these Northern Parts (where they have not one single Port) and such the Superior Strength of the English; that by the ordinary Blessing of Providence ¦ upon our vigourous Endeavours their Destruction would be inevitable; but if the Places that are now free from any immediate Danger by the French and Indians on the Land part, wUl be 1 Elected in May, 1746. 2 For the action of the Assembly, see Col Rec. ofR. I., V. 169. 41 8 Correspondence of the deaf to all the Solicitations from the Colonies, that are most deeply affected with this War, for Succour in their distressed State ; In a short Time the Enemy will in all probability depopulate such unhappy de serted Provinces, and then those who now think themselves in Security will feel the Miseries of this bloody War and too late repent of the Neglect of their own Interests as well as their Disregard to their fellow Subjects. And what is greatly to be lamented in our present Case is that with all the Advantages We have over our Enemies, yet for want of an union of Councils among our selves (which renders us contemptible in the Eyes of the Indians) the French who are weak in themselves, but in the strictest Combination with one another, and the Savages that dwell among or near them, are like to bring the Six most powerful Nations of Indians, on this Continent, (which have hitherto from Time immemorial been firmly attached to the English Government) over into their Interest. In this Situation of Our Affairs, We can have no prospect of any thing but Misery and Desolation, unless the Several Governments will join in the firm est League against the Common Enemy and carry on the War with Vigour and Resolution, and then we may hope for the Blessing of Divine Providence to render our Designs successfuU. I must there fore intreat your Honour to lay this Matter before your Assembly and to do all in your Power to Spirit Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 419 them up to Resolutions becoming the Character of English men I am with great Regard Sir Your Honour's most Obed' humble Servant W Shirley. The Hon''.'* William Green EsqT GOVERNOR CLINTON TO GOVERNOR GREENE. New York 26 May 1746. Sir I have Received Your Favour of the 2o'^ Instant,* Acquainting me with the appointment of Commis sioners in your Government to treat with such Com missi as are or may be appointed by other Govern ments upon this Continent for their mutual Security and Defence against the Enemy; which I conceive is a measure of the last Importance in regard to the Common Cause, as the French and their Indians are so Enterprizing and barbarous upon our Frontiers ; and I should have been glad, if You had sent me the Names of Your Commissioners, that the Commiss'.' appointed by me might have entered upon a Corre spondence by this Post about the time and Place of Convention with which I hope You'll acquaint me by return of the Post, that no time may be lost in bringing about a General Meeting. In the mean time I conceive some part of this Province, somewhat remote from this City may be thought a Place agree- 1 Not in the archives. Stephen Hopkins and WiUiam EUery were appointed. See Col. Rec. ofR. I., V. 169, 170. 420 Correspondence of the able to all Partys, as it tends rather to the Center. EspeciaUy as Merryland has absolutely refused, I have but little hopes of Vergina or Phillidelphi. I am sir Your very humble serv' G Clinton. The Hon''!' GovT of Rhode Island. GOVERNOR SHIRLEY TO GOVERNOR GREENE. Boston May 29? 1746 Sir, I send your Honour by Express a Packet directed to you, and delivered to me (with others to the rest of the Govern'? in North America) by CaptT- Town- ley Commander of his Majesty's Sloop the Hinchen- brook sent hither for bringing his Majesty's Orders to the said Governours for raising a sufficient Num ber of Soldiers to assist in an Expedition, his Ma jesty has set on foot for the Reduction of Canada ; A fuU Account whereof I presume is contain'd in your Letter.* And as your Government has born so little of the Charge of the War hitherto, in Comparison with the Burthen which the other three Provinces in New England have sustain'd ; And the general Advan tage of Success in this Affair will be so great to it 1 The Duke of Newcastle's letter to the colony, of April 9, 1746, is printed in the Col. Rec. of R. I., v. 162. It notifies the colony that five battalions, under General St. Clair, are to sail for Louisbourg, to be joined with the regulars there, and as many colonial troops as may be raised, for the reduction of Canada. Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 42 1 I presume your Assembly will engage in it with the utmost Alacrity, And I can have no Doubt but that your Honour will do every thing in your Power to excite such a Spirit in them on this Occasion as will highly recommend them to his Majesty's Favour; And I dare undertake for the Massachusetts that nothing will be wanting on their Part that is fit, or possible to be done by them I am with great Regard Sir, Your Honours most obedient humble Servant W Shirley. It is my Opinion that a body of 6000 Men at least should enter the Enemy's Country by the way of Albany; and that the Colonies ought to raise 10,000 among 'em in order to proceed in the propos'd Plan ; and I shall act in this Governm! accordingly.* The hon''!* William Green EsqT GOVERNOR SHIRLEY TO GOVERNOR GREENE. Boston May 30. 1746 Sir, I send this by Express, to Acquaint your Honour that I thought it very necessary for preventing In telligence going to the Enemy of the intended Ex- 1 Three hundred men were raised, to be sent, with the Tartar ^% convoy, to Louis bourg. Col. Rec. of R. I., V. 172. The troops promised by Newcastle never came. They were sent to Portsmouth, and after some delays, ordered on a fruitless expedi tion against the coast of France. Shirley was informed that the demands of the European war made an expedition against Canada impossible, and ordered to get nd of the provincial levies (of which there were some 7000 at Louisbourg) on account of the expense. Parkman's A Half Cetitury of Conflict, II. 169, 171, 172- 422 Correspondence of the pedition,* that aU the French men, that may be sus pected as likely to carry or send such InteUigence, should be immediately confined ; and also that all small Vessels that may be employed for such a Busi ness should be stop'd ; And therefore I have by Advice of his Majesty's CouncU here given out such Orders with respect to this Government, And do earnestly recommend to your Honour to use the same Caution in your Government and that as soon as may be. I am Sir Your Honour's most Obedient humble Servant W Shirley The hon''?' Governour Greene RICHARD PARTRIDGE TO GOVERNOR GREENE. London 3? mo. the 31. 1746 To the Goif. Rhode Isf. &c^ Agreeable to what I lately advised of our Success at last in our Boundary Cause we have obtained an Order of the King in Council for affirming the Lords Committees Report and Judgm! under the Privy Seal w'^'' comes here inclosed and doubt not but it will be very satisfactory to the Colony. It will now be necessary upon receipt of this Order immediatly to run and mark out these lines in order finally to close the Contest ; If the Massach'.' Bay 1 See letter of May 29. Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 423 would authorise Some persons to meet in order jointly to mark out the Boundary it w" be best. But as they may be out of humour and may decline it. So the business sh" not be omitted if that sh" be the Case) but I think it had best be done by the Colony alone rather than not to be done at all.* I hope now the Colony will consider me as I have heretofore had some assurances given me which I must however Submit to their Judicious Considera tion, And our SolT Paris expects they wiU consider him also with a gratuity over and above his Bill of Costs, for that in the Course of the Transaction of the Affair he has been really diligent and labourd Industriously therein and was also instrumental in our procuring what we have obtained of our Rights more than the Gore of Land. I send this at a ven ture to meet Cap' Adams in the Downs who is bound to Boston so shall not enlarge but remain with due Respects Thy Faithful friend R? Partridge To The Governour and Company of the Colony of Rhode Island Providence Plantations 1 Massachusetts refused to appoint surveyors to run the line, whereupon the Rhode Island men laid out the boundary by themselves, and the questions raised by thek proceeding were not settled until the nineteenth century. For the act appointing commissioners see Col. Rec. of R. I., V. 197, 199. Also Shirley's letter of January 5, 1747. 424 Correspondence of the GOVERNOR SHIRLEY TO GOVERNOR GREENE. Boston June 2. 1746 Sir, I herewith inclose a Proclamation which I have issued for raising Voluntiers for the intended Expe dition, by which your Honour will perceive the Spirit of Our General Assembly and the Disposition which they have shewn to give the utmost Encour agement for promoting this Undertaking,* which, considering what We have done and suffered in the late Expedition against Cape Breton, is beyond what I could have expected from them ; I hope your Assembly (who have done so little in the last Expe dition) wUl not fall below us in this I can't but think it will be of Service for all the Governments to Enlist as many of their neighbour ing Indians as they can, provided they are of a war like Disposition and Friends to the English Inter est I am with much respect Sir Your Honour's most Obedient humble Servant W Shirley June 8^ 1746 since my writing this, which sh? have been sent by the last post, I hear that the Governm! of New Hamp shire give Encouragem! for raising 1000 Men there, that Connecticutt^ has given Encouragem! for raising 1 Massachusetts voted 3500 men. 2 New Hampshire sent 500 men, and Connecticut 1000. Parkman, A Half Century of Conflict, II. 169. Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 425 600 Men there, and asmanymoreas shall voluntarily enhst. -^ TTT Q The Hon''!^ William Green EsqT GOVERNOR GREENE TO THE GOVERNOR OF HAVANA. Rhode Island June 14. 1746 Upon receiving a Copy of your ExceUency's Let ter To the GovT of PhUadelphia in which You com- plain against John Dennis a Privateer of this Place for makeing Slaves of 22 Free Subjects of the King of Spain,* The Government of this Colony have Ex amined into the Affair and finding that 9 of the Blacks taken in the Galley were brot in here by one of Dennis's Consorts and condemned as Slaves by the Kings Judge of Admiralty without any Blame on the Part of s? Dennis, They have Ordered them to be Immediately sett at Liberty, and I have wrote to the GovT of New York where the Rest were con demned and dare assure yT Excellency that They also wUl be restored to their Liberty and Sent Home by the first Opportunity, or as many of them as shall be living. It appears that four of those brought in here have been already sent back to the Havanna, three of them, to wit, Joseph Peraro, Manuel and Mingo 1 The first mention of this affair, in the Assembly records, occurs in May, 1746, to inquire into the circumstances of the detention of some English prisoners at Havana, evidently as a reprisal. Col. Rec. of R. I., V. 170. Arnold says that twenty-two Span iards were carried north and sold as slaves, and nineteen of Dennis's crew held as host ages. History of Rhode Island, II. 153. 426 Correspondence of the by way of New Providence, the other to wit, Pero, by way of Jamaica : One to wit Ralph Barka is now at Sea but shaU be set at liberty on his Arrival, and another, to wit Lawrence, is dead, so that I can only send You 3 by this Flagg of Truce, But I flatter my self Your Excel'?' will be hereby fully satisfied of the Honour and Good faith of this Government and I rely on your Equity and Justice to release and Send back the men You have hitherto detained on this Account. Had your Excellency certified to this Gov ernm! that those Spanish Prisoners were freemen the Cruel Injury you So justly complain of as con trary to the Laws of Nature and Nations had been long since redress'd or had we been truly inform'd or properly apply'd to relating to this affair there had been now no cause of Complaint for nobody can more abhorr and detest such Violence and In justice Such Acts of Violence and Injustice thro' the Self ishness of private persons are not among the least Calamities of War But your Excellency may be as sured that I shall Endeavour to prevent them for the future and If I find any other persons in the Same Situation shall Cause them to be Restored to their Liberty* I am with the Greatest Respect and Esteem YT Excellency's Most humble Serv! W G To Don Juan Franz? de Inumes &c Harrastitas GovT of the Havanna 1 The vote for restoring the Spaniards is in Col. Rec. of R. I., V. 176. Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 427 GOVERNOR GREENE TO GOVERNOR CLINTON. Sr You will See by the Inclosed Copy of Letters from GovT Thomas and the GovT of the Havannah how much it Concerns his Majesties Service that the Span- yards Carried into New York by Cap! GreenhUl (Den nis's Consort) and made Slaves should be forthwith Sent home. Those which were Condemned here by the Judge of Admiralty have been Restored to their Liberty by Order of the Gen? Assembly and I am Sending them home in a Flag of Truce. I have Ven tured To Assure the Spanish GovT that Your Excel lency wiU Cause the Rest to be Set at Liberty, And I rely on yT Compassion to the Unhappy Men so long detained at the Havannah to send as many of the Spanish Prisoners as can be readily found to go home together in the Flag of Truce which I shall dispatch as soon as possible.* I am sT y' most Ob and Humb Serv! W G To G C EsqT of New York GOVERNOR GREENE TO GOVERNOR THOMAS. Sr The Gen" Assembly have ordered all the Spanish prisoners mentioned in the Gov' of the Havannahs Letter that were made Slaves here to be forthwith Set at Liberty And I am Sending home in a Flag of 1 See preceding letter, and note. 428 Correspondence of the Truce all that can be found I have likewise wrote To GovT Clinton in the most pressing Terms in favour of the Best who were Carried into New York.* You may Satisfy the Gov' of the Havannah that this Governm! Abhors Such Violence and Injustice And that if he had Certified us those Blacks were Free men We Should have Set them at Liberty notwith standing the Judge of Admiralty had Condemned them as Slaves. I doubt not you will as readily In tercede wh him in favour of Dennis's Men he has so long detained and hope yT Good Offices for them wiU be as Effectual for their Deliverance as they have ben for those Spanish prisoners I am sT &c To the Hon! G T. EsqT GovT of Pensylvania. GOVERNOR SHIRLEY AND ADMIRAL WARREN TO GOVERNOR GREENE. Boston July 7. 1746. Sir, The Committee of War having represented to Us the difficulties they meet with in purchasing the ne cessary Supplys of Provisions, that are wanted for the Forces to be employed in the Expedition against Canada, and as We apprehend this Difficulty is in a great measure owing to the prohibition laid by some of the Southern Governments upon the exportation of provisions in order to obtain their own supplys 1 See the two letters immediately preceding this. Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 429 for the same design which by this time may be Com pleated,^ We must desire you now to take off said Prohabition if there be any such in your Govern ment, and to forward as much as may be Such Sup plys to us as hist Majestys service demands, and you may assure tbe Coasters that they shall be at free Liberty to return forthwith notwithstanding the Embargo laid upon the Shipping here, and as it is thought expedient, that Such an Embargo shou'd take place here in order to preserve our Seamen for his majestys service, We hope you will likewise judge it necessary to come into the like method within your Governm! or it will prove fruitless in this,* We are Sir, Your Honours most Obedient humble servants P Warren W Shirley The Hon''!^ Will¥ Green EsqT ADMIRAL WARREN TO GOVERNOR GREENE. Boston 16*.' July 1746 Sir I have the Honour of yours, dated the 11'.''^ by the Post, and wish that your Government coud have raisd a full Regiment of one Thousand Men for the Expedition now on foot against Canada ; This woud have given your Colony great credit, and your Hon- 1 Greene's answer to this letter is printed in Col. Rec. of R. I., V. 187. 2 Probably that printed in Col. Rec. of R. I., V. 183. The date was omitted from the draught. 430 Correspondence of the our an opportunity of appointing a Colonel, and aU the proper Field Officers to it. As you observe the Number of your Privateers, to be sure, takes up many Men,* but I concieve they resort to you from aU the Colonys, and too often from his Majesty's ships ; I am very sensible they do great service, but were they now restraind from their private Pursuits, and encourag? to engage in the intended Enterprize, an Addition by that means might be made to your Quota, and it woud look better, as upon the Success of this Expedirion depends so much the well being of all his Majesty's Dominions, especially in America. Surely if the French were in our situation, upon this Continent, and We in theirs, they woud not leave one of us upon it in six Months, and why our Colo nies shoud any of them hesitate one moment about any Expence, shoud it even faU upon them, I cant account for, but I dont suppose it will, as We are told from England the Expence of the late Expe dition was under the Consideration of Parliament and great Room to believe the Colonys woud be reimbursed. Their all is now at Stake, and future Generations will have the greatest Reason to blame the Conduct of the Present, if they dont embrace so glorious a Prospect as they now have to extir pate a most troublesome Enemy, who will probably grow more formidable to our Posterity, than they are at present to us. I presume you will think of sending the Forces you have raised to Nantasket, as soon as possible, under the Care of your Colony 1 Greene says, in his letter referred to above, " more than three thousand " Rhode Island men were in arms. Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 431 Sloop, to take the Benefit of the Convoy that will go with the Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Connecticut Troops, to the Rendezvous at Louis bourg The Men you mention that were raisd for the Vigilant upon the Faith of your Governments are all discharged, except a very few now out in the Chester, whose Captain (as the Kings Service woud not ad mit of my parting with them without getting Men in their Room) is ordered to change them into any Ves sell he may, during his Cruize, meet with, bound to such of the Colonys as they may desirous of going to, and I have also directed him for their Encourage ment, to pay them their Wages, as I have done all the others, a thing I dare say never done before, and what I flatter my self will convince your Legislature, that I have taken the greatest Care to keep their faith with those Voluntiers inviolable, and I hope they wUl be assured that I shall upon all Occasions demonstrate myself a well Wisher to the Colony of Road Island, by doing it every good Office in my power I am with great Regard Sir Your most Obedient Humble Servant P Warren You wUl please as a Distinction from the others to order all the Vessells you send upon the Expedi tion to Wear a broad blew Vane, with a large white Ball in it, at their main Topmasts or Top Gall! Mast heads The Hon''!* GovernT Green 432 Correspondence of the RICHARD PARTRIDGE TO GOVERNOR GREENE. London 5'" month or July 26*? 1746 Goif. Green Understanding thou art again Elected GovT of the Colony of Rhod Island &c* I now address my Self to thee to inform thee that I have some time since sent over the Order of the King in CouncU under the Privy Seal for establishing the Boundarys which has been so long depending with the Massach'? agreable to the Judgm! of the Lords Committee in xber. 1744. and also duplicates of the same which I hope will gett safe to hand and be very acceptable to the Col ony and wherein I may say I left no stone unturned to bring that Affair to so good an Issue. As for the Acco! of the Colonys Charge and Ex- pence relating to Cape Breton the same with my Petition to the King has been (on a Refference) under the Consideration of a Committee of Lords of the Council and now I have the Satisfaction to tell thee that they have agreed to Report back to the King in our favour and to propose that he wou'd be pleas'd to recommend it to Parliam' at the beginning of the next Sessions together with the Massachu'.' Demand and that in the mean time the Several Demands may be referrd to some proper persons to liquidate them.* but I am told its likely that it will be upwards of a Year yet before the money will be paid however I intend duely to pursue it, and if you have a further Subsequent Charge lett me have it in time duely 1 See the following document. Colonial Governors of Rhode Island 433 proved and Authenicated to carry into Parliament to be added to our first Acco! and as there will be an absolute necessity of Expence for this and paying my Solicitor his former Bill of Costs &c* I earnestly intreat that Remittances may be made me with all Ex pedition and which I pray thou wouldst be so kind as to recommend to the House of Representatives that I may be encouraged ChearfuUy to pursue the Affairs of the Colony under my Care. I have not yet had a Plan of your Fortification sent me over w'^'' was required by the Ministry here and which I wrote for some time since; till that comes nothing can be further done in obtaining a Grant for the Stores required — I was very lately at the Office of Ordnance and am informed of the same there.* As for Publick News the Warr with France and Spain continues still, but as the King of Spain is lately deceased it is thought that Circumstances wiU in time prove an advantage to this Kingdom, the Rebellion now seems to be quelled and pretty well over, and the Governm! are now busyed in the Tryal of the Rebells of whom several Officers are already Condemned, for the I refer to the Prints herewith sent and remain, with due Respects to thy Self and the Gentlemen of the Council Thy and Their faithfull Friend, Rich? Partridge My Brother in Law Belcher is by the King ap- 1 See Greene's letter of August i, 1746. 434 Correspondence of the Colonial Governors pointed Gov' of New Jersey in the room of Gov' Morris dec? and kissd his hand for it the 22" Inst : To The Governour and Company of the Colony of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations New England WILLIAM SHARPE TO RICHARD PARTRIDGE. ^ W^HITEHALL 1 7 June 1746 Dear Sir I took care of yoT Petition during your absence, — and have the Satisfaction to tell you that the Lords have agreed to report to the King in your favour, and to propose that his Majesty would be pleased to recommend it to Parliam' at the beginning of the next Sessions, together with the Massachusets De mand, And that in the mean time the several Demands may be referrd to some proper persons to liquidate them, I am most truely Dt St yoT very obed' Servant W: Sharpe 1 Enclosed with letter of July 26, 1746. END OF VOLXIME I. Electrotyped and printed by H. O. Houghton &• Ca. 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