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EAP 1364 St Helena

Document Name and Date St Helena Letters To England 1759 - 1766
Photographer Shelley
Date photographed 07 March 2022

Additional comments

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Letter Book to England

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1759 to 1766

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Letter Book to England

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1759 to 1766

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To the Honoble the Court of

Honorable Sirs.

1.․ We wrote last to you by your ship the
Prince Edward Captain James Mackenzie that sailed from
Hence on the 20 August 1758

2.․ On the 27 January arrived your ship the
Latham Captain John Toot from Bombay

3.․ On the 13 Instant arrived your ship the
Holdernesse Captain Robert Brooke from England by whom we
received your Packet and are Sorry to find by your Letter therein
Enclosed, that your Honors have not received any advices from us
to a later date than the 21st May by Lieutenant Woodward.

4.․ The directions in your Letter we have received
by the Holdernesse shall be strictly attended to as likewise those further
ones we may receive by your Ship the Delaware which we hope will
soon arrive.

5.․ It is great Satisfaction to us to hear of the
Success of the British Navy, and that of France as well as their
Commerce to be so much reduced, from which as well as the great
Loss your Honors Inform us, their Land Forces have met with
under the Command of Gen: Washington Lately we hope they will
not be Able to make any considerable acquisition, or do much damage.

1.․ It was noted that the last correspondence was sent to the Court via the ship Prince Edward, commanded by Captain James Mackenzie, which departed from St Helena on 20 August 1758.

2.․ The arrival of the ship Latham, under the command of Captain John Toot, from Bombay on 27 January was recorded by the council.

3.․ The arrival of the ship Holdernesse, commanded by Captain Robert Brooke, from England on 13 February was acknowledged. It was noted that the official packet was received, and regret was expressed that the Court had not received any advice from the council dated later than 21st May via Lieutenant Woodward.

4.․ It was confirmed that the instructions received in the letter delivered by the Holdernesse would be followed strictly. It was further stated that similar attention would be given to any subsequent directions arriving with the ship Delaware, which was expected to reach the island shortly.

5.․ Satisfaction was expressed regarding the success of the British Navy and the fact that the commerce of France had been much reduced. Following the report of significant losses suffered by French land forces under the recent command of Gen: Washington, the hope was shared that the enemy would be unable to secure any considerable acquisition or inflict much damage.

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to your Settlements or trade in India); and we also hope that the
Four large French Ships you had Advice of waiting at Ilha
Grande to be formed by 9 more to proceed to India) will be timely
opposed by the reinforcement of Ships, your Honors have good
reason to Expect from his Majesty to join those who are already
in India).

6․ We beg leave to Assure your Honors that all
the precautions that could be thought of have been taken for the
Security and defence of this your Island, and your Shipping
and we will Continue to be in readiness to make the most Vigorous
defence in case of being attacked.

7․ The Governor begs leave to Assure your Honors
that all orders he may receive from the Honorable the Secret
Committee shall be punctually Complyed with.

8․ We observe by your Letter that you have taken
up 21 Ships upon Freight to carry on your trade this Season
which we hope will be Successfully Aided the Royal George which
you have built on the Companys Account with the Prince Henry
Packet, the Syren and diligent Sloops, will in all respects answer
the Purpose you intend them for; the latter of which we observe
by your Letter was under dispatch from Bombay.

9․ It is a pleasure to us to find your Honors
intend to send the Delaware, with the remaining part of the Stores
necessary for the use of this Island and Batteerets which your
Ship the Holdernesse could not take in; and you may depend
upon our giving the Commanders of both those Ships all the
Assistance we can in unlading them in order for their proceeding
as soon possible on their Voyage to the West Coast of Sumatra)

6. Assurances were given that every possible precaution for the security and defence of St Helena and the associated shipping had been taken. It was stated that readiness would be maintained to ensure a vigorous defence in the event of an attack.

7. An assurance was provided by the Governor that all orders received from the Secret Committee would be complied with punctually.

8. It was observed that twenty-one ships had been taken up on freight for the season. The hope was expressed that these would be aided by the Royal George, which had been built on the account of the Company, alongside the Prince Henry packet and the Syren and Diligent sloops. It was noted that the latter vessel was under dispatch from Bombay.

9. Satisfaction was expressed regarding the intention to send the Delaware with the remaining stores and batteries required for the island which the Holdernesse could not accommodate. It was confirmed that the commanders of both ships would be provided with all possible assistance during unlading to ensure they could proceed as soon as possible to the west coast of Sumatra.

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10․ As you have thought proper to send your Ships
consigned to Surat directly to that place without touching at this
Island, we shall therefore Expect only your Ship the Delaware to bring
any further Supply this season.

11․ We hope the precautions you have taken with regard
to your Shipping, will in all respects answer your Intentions, and that
they will be successful.

12․ Your Ship the Holdernesse has had and shall
have all the Assistance we can give in unloading her; We shall give
the Commander orders to make the best of his way to Fort Marlborough
and dispatch her from hence within the Charter party time).

13․ We shall also take care to be in readiness to unload the
Delaware and dispatch her as soon as possible.

14․ We thank your Honors for the Arrival and departure
of your Shipping which we received in your packet Certified by your
Secretary.

15․ All orders that may be received from Lawrence Sulivan
Esqr. present Chair Man of the Court of Directors Roger Drake Esqr.
deputy, Christopher Burrow Nathaniel Newnham, and Henry Plant
Esqrs. or any three of them, We beg leave to Assure your Honors shall
be punctually obeyed, by the Governor and to whomsoever they may be
directed.

16․ Altho’ your Honors had not received our Indent
of last year, the several Articles mentioned in the Invoice of your Ship
the Holdernesse, are such as are the most Essential for us to have.

17․ As we shall not have occasion to Issue any of

10. It was noted that as the ships consigned to Surat had been sent directly to that location without stopping at St Helena, only the arrival of the Delaware was expected to provide any further supply for the current season.

11. The hope was expressed that the precautions taken regarding the shipping would be successful and meet all intended purposes.

12. The council stated that the ship Holdernesse had received and would continue to receive all possible assistance with unloading. It was further noted that the commander would be ordered to proceed directly to Fort Marlborough and that the ship would be dispatched within the period specified by the charter-party.

13. Assurances were given that preparations would be made to unload the Delaware and dispatch the vessel as quickly as possible.

14. Gratitude was expressed to the Court for the list regarding the arrival and departure of shipping, which was received in the packet and certified by the Secretary.

15. It was confirmed that all orders received from Lawrence Sulivan Esq, the current Chairman of the Court of Directors, Roger Drake Esq, Deputy, Christopher Burrow, Nathaniel Newnham, and Henry Plant Esqs, or any three of them, would be punctually obeyed by the Governor and any other intended recipients.

16. Although the council observed that the Court had not yet received the previous year's indent, it was noted that the various articles listed in the invoice for the Holdernesse were those most essential for the island.

17. It was stated that there would be no occasion to issue any of

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Beef and pork your Ship the Holdernesse has brought us, before the
arrival of your Ship the Delaware, we shall take care that that which
comes by the latter, shall be first used, according to your directions
We shall give you a particular Account of its goodness and how tis
liked.

18․ Finding upon an Examination that between
50 barrels of Gunpowder will be sufficient to be kept here in Store
We shall therefore forward ten barrels which came by the Holdernesse
to Fort Marlborough, and shall take only ten of those that are to come
by the Ship Delaware.

19․ The Governor assures your Honors that the
Claret you have pleased to send for the Table, shall be used in the manner
and for the purposes you have mentioned.

20․ We have received on Shore two Chests of Treasure
you Consigned to us by the Holdernesse, and shall take only two more
out of your Ship the Delaware, according to the Liberty you have given us
and shall give the Commanders receipts for the same, and duly advise
your deputy Governor & Council of Fort Marlborough of what we shall
so detain.

21․ We have received the Twenty Seconds you have
sent us, by the Holdernesse which are very good but there unfortunately
happens to be one of the Number that is quite crazy and therefore
unserviceable.

22․ We have hitherto advanced only Sergeant and
Corporal to Each Company as pr Consultation of the 12th of February
and have not as yet appointed any additional Officers, But as we
think there is not a Necessity for it we Intend soon to appoint four
as we formerly mentioned to you of which Sergeant Gipling and
Mr Solomon F Maurice shall be two.

17. The council noted that as there would be no occasion to issue any of the beef and pork brought by the Holdernesse before the arrival of the Delaware, care would be taken to ensure the provisions from the latter ship were used first, as directed. It was stated that a specific account regarding the quality and reception of these provisions would be provided.

18. Following an examination, it was determined that keeping between 50 barrels of gunpowder in store would be sufficient. Consequently, the council resolved to forward ten barrels received via the Holdernesse to Fort Marlborough and intended to retain only ten of the barrels expected to arrive with the Delaware.

19. The Governor provided an assurance that the claret sent for the table would be used strictly in the manner and for the purposes specified by the Court.

20. The council recorded the receipt of two chests of treasure consigned via the Holdernesse. It was intended to take only two additional chests from the Delaware, in accordance with the permission granted, and receipts would be issued to the commanders. The Deputy Governor and Council of Fort Marlborough would be duly advised of the amount detained at St Helena.

21. The council acknowledged the receipt of the twenty seconds sent via the Holdernesse. It was observed that while they were generally of good quality, one of the number was unfortunately quite unstable and therefore unfit for use.

22. It was noted that, as per the consultation of 12 February, only a sergeant and corporal had been advanced to each company. Although no additional officers had yet been appointed, the council expressed the opinion that such appointments were necessary and intended shortly to appoint four, as previously mentioned, of whom Sergeant Gipling and Mr Solomon F Maurice would be two.

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23․ Your directions with regards to the sending you the
Names of all passengers on board your out or foreign Ships returning
from India, shall be constantly transmitted to you in the manner
you have directed. We now accordingly acquaint you that there goes
passengers on the Ship Latham Mrs Martha Wright wife of Saml
Wright Super Intendent and in Council in Bombay with two
Children and Servants. Mrs Armstrong late Scott wife of George
Scott (formerly Marine) and in Council with two Children and
Servants, and Captain Andrew Armstrong who was in your Service
there.

24․ Your Ship the Holdernesse not being yet unloaded
we cannot ascertain the Quantity of Stores that may be Landed
here from her, therefore cannot send you the Certificates for it by
this occasion, but we shall be very Carefull in transmitting them
to you by the next according to the form we have received in the
Packet.

25․ We are much pleased to hear of the Safe arrival
of his Majestys Ship the Colchester at Cork with your Ships
the Eagle Duke, Warwick, Sandwich, Triton, Princess Augusta, Elizabeth,
and Orelow, under her Convoy on 8th October as likewise the
Marlborough and Norfolk at Falmouth (tho’ you had not heard of her)
have long since arrived in some part of Great Britain.

26․ We are also glad your Ship the Carnavon
was so luckily retaken by the Somerset man of war. And that
the Honorable Company are likely to be no great sufferers by her
falling into the Hands of the Enemy.

27․ We are sorry your Honors had not received
our packet by the Colchester Man of war.

23. The council confirmed that the names of all passengers on board the outbound or foreign ships returning from India would be transmitted to the Court regularly in the prescribed manner. It was reported that passengers on the Latham included Mrs Martha Wright, wife of Samuel Wright, Superintendent and member of the Council in Bombay, travelling with two children and servants; Mrs Armstrong, formerly Scott, wife of George Scott, formerly of the Marine and member of the Council, with two children and servants; and Captain Andrew Armstrong, who had been in the service of the Company.

24. It was stated that since the Holdernesse had not yet been fully unloaded, the exact quantity of stores landed could not be determined. Consequently, the required certificates could not be sent with the present correspondence, but the council assured the Court that they would be transmitted by the next opportunity using the form provided in the packet.

25. Satisfaction was expressed regarding the safe arrival of His Majesty’s ship Colchester at Cork on 8th October, convoying the Eagle, Duke, Warwick, Sandwich, Triton, Princess Augusta, Elizabeth, and Oswestry. It was further hoped that the Marlborough and Norfolk, which had reached Falmouth, had long since arrived safely at their destinations in Great Britain.

26. The council noted with pleasure that the ship Carnarvon had been successfully retaken by the Somerset man-of-war. It was observed that the Honorable Company would perhaps not suffer great losses despite the vessel having fallen into enemy hands.

27. Regret was expressed that the Court had not received the packet sent via the Colchester man-of-war.

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28․ We are greatly surprised that your Packets
were not forwarded to you as expeditiously as you had reason to
Expect as all your Commanders had orders that Copies of your
Instructions on that head given to them by us and it is particularly
mentioned to Captain Toot to forward the Packet from this Island

29․ We are glad to hear your Ships Lord Anson York and
Prince Edward, were met the 26th October last of Ireland and at
that time all well.

30․ Three Ships appeared to Windward of this Island
on the 5th instant, about Eight Leagues distant and stood away from
about noon, but on the next day they were seen again about the same
distance and stood away in the manner they did the day before, and
have been seen (as is reported) by people in different parts of the
Island hovering about it, which gives us reason to suspect they are
French Cruizers but as they have not appeared upwards of a week past
we hope we shall have no more of them, The Governor however proposed
to the Gentlemen of the Council that he thought it was necessary to fit out
one of your long boats to go to windward for Intelligence, And Captain Toot
having been so kind as to offer Mr Bendy one of his Midshipmen
to undertake to conduct her who he recommended as a very Capable
person, the Gentlemen of the Council having agreed to this proposal,
the boat is now getting ready and we have agreed to give Mr Bendy
at the rate of 10£ pr Annum during the time he may be in this
Service

31․ John Morgan Soldier that was left here sick
belonging to the Company commanded by Captain Grant having
died in your Hospital, made a will by which he had given all his Effects
of what kind soever and wheresoever unto James Robinson Mate of
and John Holloway Soldier in this Garrison to be Equally divided between
them; but they both declaring the said Morgan only intended that they
should all be died possessed of on this Island after distributing the Sum
of one pound seven Shillings in the manner directed by his will

28. Great surprise was expressed that the packets had not been forwarded as expeditiously as expected, given that all commanders had received copies of the relevant instructions. It was specifically noted that Captain Toot had been ordered to forward the packet from St Helena.

29. The council noted with satisfaction that the ships Lord Anson, York, and Prince Edward had been met off Ireland on 26th October last and were reported to be well at 그 time.

30. It was reported that three ships appeared to the windward of St Helena on 5th February, approximately eight leagues distant, before standing away at noon. They were seen again the following day at a similar distance behaving in the same manner. Reports from various parts of the island indicated that the vessels were hovering nearby, leading to the suspicion that they were French cruisers. As they had not been sighted for over a week, it was hoped they had departed. However, the Governor proposed to the council that a longboat should be fitted out to sail to windward for intelligence. Captain Toot offered the services of one of his midshipmen, Mr Bendy, whom he recommended as a capable person to conduct the vessel. The council agreed to this proposal, and the boat was prepared. It was further agreed that Mr Bendy would be paid at the rate of £10 per annum for the duration of this service.

31. The council noted that John Morgan, a soldier from the company commanded by Captain Grant who had been left on the island due to illness, died in the hospital. He had made a will bequeathing all his effects to James Robinson, a mate, and John Holloway, a soldier in the garrison, to be divided equally. However, both beneficiaries declared that Morgan only intended for them to receive what he possessed on St Helena after the distribution of £1 7s in the manner specified by his will.

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They therefore signed to an Instrument, or writing by which they
acknowledged that it was a misunderstanding by the Writer to make
over all Goods whatsoever of this Island; and that nothing Else was intended
to be given them, than such Effects as he should die possessed of here.
as you will please to observed in Council at Large in order Consultation of
the 21st July 1758

32․ Captain Toot informed us that the Pitt arrived
at Anjengo the 5th of September and that he left Bombay the 9th
November, he says Fort St Davids was taken by the French and two
of our Twenty seven Ships were run on shore; he also tells us that two of the
French Ships were lost on the Maldive Islands and only forty Europeans
saved, and that Bristol was dispatched from thence to bring them
from thence; That Monsr Lally was defeated by the King of Travancore
and lost three hundred men and that the English Men of War
have had two Engagements with the French on the Coast of Coromandel
but he does not know the Particulars, the Minutes of the Last we transmit
you herewith.

33․ Captain Brooke also acquaints us that on the
8th of December the Diligent Sloop made sail ahead from him and
Captain Forrester in Latitude 31.19 and Longitude 14.16 West and
on the 1st February separated with Captain Forrester in Latitude 29.53

34․ Lieutenant Samuel Price having suffered himself
to be insulted at the Head of his Guard by a Soldier and not having
confined and reported him we therefore suspended him for two months
as pr Consultation of the 12 Instant.

The Governor this day paid into your Honors
Cash the sum of three hundred pounds which Sum he had received
and given him bills of Exchange drawn on your Honors payable
to himself or order ninety days after sight dated this day.

31. The council noted that the beneficiaries signed a written instrument acknowledging that the person who drafted the will had misunderstood the deceased's intentions by including property beyond the island. They confirmed that the legacy was intended to encompass only those effects possessed by the deceased on St Helena. It was observed that the full details of this matter were recorded in the consultation of 21 July 1758.

32. Information was received from Captain Toot that the Pitt reached Anjengo on 5th September and that he had departed from Bombay on 9th November. He reported that Fort St David had been captured by the French and that two of the twenty-seven ships had been run ashore. It was further stated that two French vessels were lost on the Maldive Islands with only forty Europeans surviving, and that the Bristol had been dispatched to retrieve them. Reports were also shared that Monsieur Lally had been defeated by the King of Travancore with a loss of three hundred men, and that British men-of-war had engaged the French twice on the Coromandel Coast. Although the specific details were unknown to the captain, the council transmitted the minutes of the latter engagement with the current correspondence.

33. Captain Brooke informed the council that on 8th December, the Diligent sloop sailed ahead of him and Captain Forrester at latitude 31.19 and longitude 14.16 west. He also reported that on 1st February he separated from Captain Forrester at latitude 29.53.

34. It was noted that Lieutenant Samuel Price had allowed himself to be insulted by a soldier whilst at the head of his guard without confining or reporting the individual. Consequently, the council suspended him for two months, as recorded in the consultation of 13 February.

The Governor paid the sum of £300 into the Company's cash. In return, he was provided with bills of exchange drawn on the Court of Directors, payable to himself or his order ninety days after sight and dated as of today.

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Mr John Adamson appeared to us to pay
Fifty four pounds one Shilling into your Honors Cash which Sum
we have received and given him bills of Exchange drawn on your
Honors payable to him or order Ninety days after sight dated
this day.

We have the Satisfaction to acquaint you, that the
Honorable Companys Stocks and Plantations are in very good
Condition, as likewise the Pastures at present but if we have
not some more Rain, there will be very little Grass for the Cattle

We are
Honorable Sirs &
your most humble Servants
Signed

St Helena
24 March 1759

Charles Hutchinson
John Adamson
John Clark

Mr John Adamson appeared before the council to pay £54 1s into the cash of the Court of Directors. This sum was received, and bills of exchange were provided, drawn on the Court and payable to him or his order ninety days after sight, dated this day.

The council expressed satisfaction in reporting that the Honorable Company's stocks and plantations were in very good condition. It was further observed that the pastures were currently in good order, though it was noted that unless more rain fell, there would be very little grass for the cattle.

St Helena

24 March 1759

Signed:

Charles Hutchinson

John Adamson

John Clark

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List of the Hon.ble Company’s Packet from St Helena per Ship Latham
the 23d of March 1759

1․ The Governor & Council’s General Letter dated the 23d of March 1759
2․ Consultations from the 29th of August 1758 to the 23d of March 1759
3․ List of Officers and Servants taken the 23d of March 1759
4․ First receipt of the Packet p.r Ship Prince Edward
5․ Cash Account from the 19th of August to the 11th of September 1758
6․ Do. from the 12th of September to the 11th of October
7․ Do. from the 12th of October to the 11th of November
8․ Do. from the 12th of November to the 11th of December
9․ Do. from the 12th of December to the 11th of January 1759
10․ Do. from the 12th of January to the 11th of February
11․ Do. from the 12th of February to the 11th of March
12․ Do. from the 12th of March to the 23d Do.
13․ Duplicate Cash Account from the 12th of July to the 11th of August 1759
14․ Do. from the 12th of August to the 20th Do.
15․ Effective State of the Garrison
16․ Duplicate of the Ship Egmont’s Account
17․ Governor’s Letter to the Secret Committee
18․ Duplicate of the Ship Prince Edward’s Account
19․ Do. Lord Anson
20․ Do. York
21․ Minutes of the Engagement between the English & French Squadron
22․ List of Rents
23․ List of Families
24․ List of Blacks
25․ General Books of Account for the Year Ending the 11th October 1758
26․ Muster Rolls of the Garrison
27․ Account of the Cargo of the Ship Latham
28․ a Book containing Courts Martial
29․ Ship Latham’s Account

1. The general letter from the Governor and Council, dated 23 March 1759.

2. The records of consultations held from 29 August 1758 to 23 March 1759.

3. A list of officers and servants as recorded on 23 March 1759.

4. The initial receipt for the packet sent via the ship *Prince Edward*.

5. The cash account for the period between 19 August and 11 September 1758.

6. The cash account for the period between 12 September and 11 October 1758.

7. The cash account for the period between 12 October and 11 November 1758.

8. The cash account for the period between 12 November and 11 December 1758.

9. The cash account for the period between 12 December 1758 and 11 January 1759.

10. The cash account for the period between 12 January and 11 February 1759.

11. The cash account for the period between 12 February and 11 March 1759.

12. The cash account for the period between 12 March and 23 March 1759.

13. A duplicate cash account for the period between 12 July and 11 August 1759.

14. A duplicate cash account for the period between 12 August and 20 August 1759.

15. A report on the effective state of the garrison.

16. A duplicate of the account for the ship *Egmont*.

17. A letter from the Governor addressed to the Secret Committee.

18. A duplicate of the account for the ship *Prince Edward*.

19. A duplicate of the account for the ship *Lord Anson*.

20. A duplicate of the account for the ship *York*.

21. The minutes detailing the engagement between the English and French naval squadrons.

22. A list of rents.

23. A list of families residing on the island.

24. A list of the black population.

25. The general books of account for the year ending 11 October 1758.

26. The muster rolls for the garrison.

27. An account detailing the cargo of the ship *Latham*.

28. A volume containing the records of courts martial.

29. An account for the ship *Latham*.

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To the Honorable the Court of Directors of the
United Company of Merchants of England
trading to the East Indies

Honorable Sirs

1․ We wrote last to you by your ship the Latham
Captain John Toot which sailed from hence on the 24th March

2․ Your Ship the Earl of Holderness Captain Robert Brooke
proceeded for Fort Marlborough on the 25th April

3․ The cruizers we mentioned to have been off this Island
which had not appeared for a Week past were seen again the 12th
April and Continued hovering about it untill the 21st of May

4․ On the 6th June arrived your Ship the Achester Captain
James Ward late Sledd from Bengall the Captain acquaints us
that having met with a Storm in which he lost all his Masts was
obliged to put into the Cape to refit, where he says he was informed
that four of your Ships from China sailed from Canton in December
and that on the 3d February the Scar and Beccawen put to sea in
Company from Princes Island with a Dutch Ship the Passengers
on the Ship Achester are William Watts Esq John Walsh Esq Captain
Edmund Maskelyne Captain Alexander Grant and his Wife and
that there is likewise on board Captain Edward Durrand who
commanded a Country Ship, but was not mentioned in the Muster
Roll as a Passenger

5․ We were also informed by the Gentlemen Passengers and

1. The council noted that their last correspondence was sent via the ship *Latham*, commanded by Captain John Toot, which departed from St Helena on 24 March.

2. It was recorded that the ship *Earl of Holderness*, under the command of Captain Robert Brooke, departed for Fort Marlborough on 25 April.

3. It was reported that the cruisers previously mentioned as being off the island, which had not been sighted for a week, appeared again on 12 April and continued to hover about the coast until 21 May.

4. The council acknowledged the arrival of the ship *Achester* from Bengal on 6 June, commanded by Captain James Ward, who replaced the late Captain Sledd. The captain reported that the vessel had encountered a storm resulting in the loss of all masts, which necessitated putting into the Cape to refit. Whilst at the Cape, he was informed that four ships from China had sailed from Canton in December and that the *Scarborough* and *Boscawen* had put to sea together from Princes Island with a Dutch ship on 3 February. It was noted that the passengers on the *Achester* included William Watts Esq, John Walsh Esq, Captain Edmund Maskelyne, and Captain Alexander Grant and his wife. It was further observed that Captain Edward Durrand, commander of a country ship, was also on board, though he had not been listed as a passenger in the muster roll.

5. Information was also received from the gentlemen passengers and

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others on board the Achester that there had been fifteen sail of french Ships
at the Cape where they took in refreshments they further inform us that
your Ship the Grantham was taken on the fourth of January and
Carried to the Cape and from thence to Mauritius

6․ On the 21st June arrived your Ships the London Captain
Richard Alwright and the Egmont Captain Charles Mears, Their
Commanders acquainted us that on the 19th October they met the
Fleet under the Command of Admiral Pocock, and informed us
that Monsr Lally was encamped about Thirty miles from
Madras, and that Colonel Draper had taken the Field, with about
Five hundred Europeans, and that the Pitt arrived at Madras
in September, and sailed the beginning of October for China, They
further acquainted us that early in December a Battle was fought by
the English Forces under Colonel Ford against the French in
Golconda about Forty miles from Vizagepatam on the North side
of the river after about half an hours Engagement the French were
entirely defeated, Their Loss was twenty Europeans killed, and one
hundred and thirty taken prisoners with their Commanding
Officer They likewise took twenty two pieces of Cannon, and all
their ammunition, Tents, Baggage &c the Passengers on the
London are Mr Collett, Mr Lewis and his Wife, Mr Simson,
Mr Williams, Mr Robsa a Dutch Gentleman, On the Egmont
Mr Randolph Merriot, Mr Henry Bushel and Mr Bastian
Smith

7․ On the 8th Instant arrived your Ship the Delawar
Captain Larkins from England by which we received a
packet from your honors, We sent for Mr Adamson to be
present at the opening thereof but he returning answer by
the Messenger that he was not well enough to attend we
therefore opened it and read your Honors Letter therein inclosed
and your new Commission constituting the Government
of this Place, and agreeable to your Orders John Holloway Esq
and Mr Matthew Darling took their places at the Board

1. The council noted that their last correspondence was sent via the ship *Latham*, commanded by Captain John Toot, which departed from St Helena on 24 March.

2. It was recorded that the ship *Earl of Holderness*, under the command of Captain Robert Brooke, departed for Fort Marlborough on 25 April.

3. It was reported that the cruisers previously mentioned as being off the island, which had not been sighted for a week, appeared again on 12 April and continued to hover about the coast until 21 May.

4. The council acknowledged the arrival of the ship *Achester* from Bengal on 6 June, commanded by Captain James Ward, who replaced the late Captain Sledd. The captain reported that the vessel had encountered a storm resulting in the loss of all masts, which necessitated putting into the Cape to refit. Whilst at the Cape, he was informed that four ships from China had sailed from Canton in December and that the *Scarborough* and *Boscawen* had put to sea together from Princes Island with a Dutch ship on 3 February. It was noted that the passengers on the *Achester* included William Watts Esq, John Walsh Esq, Captain Edmund Maskelyne, and Captain Alexander Grant and his wife. It was further observed that Captain Edward Durrand, commander of a country ship, was also on board, though he had not been listed as a passenger in the muster roll.

5. Information was also received from the gentlemen passengers and

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8․ The Delawar arriving so near the Dispatch of these Ships consequently has Occasioned much business which renders it impossible for us by this Opportunity to answer the Letters fully we received from you by that conveyance, We can therefore at present only attend to such Paragraphs therein as require immediate Consideration, by the next Opportunity we shall fully reply thereto, and in the mean Time assure Your Honors that the directions you have given us shall be punctually complied with.

9․ The Governor begs leave to return your Honors his Thanks for your Approbation of his Conduct, and to assure you it will be his Constant Endeavour to preserve the good opinion you have of him.

10․ Mr Matthew Purling returns your Honors his most humble Thanks for the favour you have been pleased to confer on him, and assures you that he will to the utmost of his power exert himself in a faithful Discharge of his Duty.

11․ Mr John Adamson and Lieutenant Thomas Kirkpatrick having been dismissed your Service here ever since the eighth Instant the day that your Ship the Delawar arrived, They take their passage for England on these Ships, and we have given Captain Alwright orders to receive on board the Ship London William Richardson, and to carry him to England as a Charter-party Passenger.

12․ Mr Francis Wrangham your Secretary is very sorry that such mistakes with regard to the Bills of Exchange drawn on your Honors happened last Year, and begs leave to assure you that he will be very Circumspect for the future, and likewise desires to acquaint you it would not have been so, if there had not been so many Ships then here, and some of the Gentlemen not applying for leave to pay Money into your Cash until the day the Ships were to Sail, at which time there generally happ…

8. The council noted that the arrival of the *Delaware* so close to the dispatch of the current ships resulted in a significant volume of business. It was stated that a full reply to the letters received via that conveyance was impossible at present. Consequently, only those paragraphs requiring immediate attention were addressed, with a complete response deferred until the next opportunity. Assurances were given to the Court that the directions provided would be followed punctually.

9. The Governor expressed his gratitude to the Court for their approval of his conduct and provided an assurance that he would constantly endeavour to maintain their good opinion.

10. Mr Matthew Purling offered his humble thanks for the favour conferred upon him and assured the Court that he would exert himself to the best of his ability in the faithful discharge of his duties.

11. It was reported that Mr John Adamson and Lieutenant Thomas Kirkpatrick were dismissed from service on the eighth day of the month, being the day the *Delaware* arrived. They were noted to be taking their passage to England on the current ships. Furthermore, Captain Alwright received orders to take William Richardson on board the *London* as a charter-party passenger for transport to England.

12. The Secretary, Mr Francis Wrangham, expressed regret for the errors made regarding the bills of exchange drawn on the Court during the previous year. He provided an assurance that he would be more circumspect in future. He further explained that the mistakes were occasioned by the simultaneous presence of numerous ships and the fact that some gentlemen did not apply for permission to pay money into the cash until the day of departure, a time when there generally happened to be significant pressure.

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to be many other things to be expedited in order for their Dispatches which he begs leave to assign for one reason of those Errors being Committed, and a second Just as that Time Mr Charles Stewart quitted your Service who was his assistant and then having a person appointed in his stead who could not be immediately acquainted with the business, he believes was the Cause thereof and humbly begs that this Omission, being the first that he had been charged with may be excused and hopes he may not lose your Honors future favour.

13․ Thomas Dav is a Recruit mentioned in the list of Recruits you sent us p Ship Earl of Holderness Mr Adamson said was a person particularly sent out to be his Servant, he was therefore struck off the List as a Soldier.

14․ The Camble we received by the Latham is invoiced at 10 £ p C and 8 £ 8 s p C and so bad in its Quality that we have not yet been able to dispose of it all and are apprehensive it will receive Damage by laying in your Stores.

15․ Being in Want of Pepper for the Use of this Island We have taken two hundred Weight out of your Ship the Egmont.

16․ Captain Ward having apply’d to us in Consultation of the 11th of June for some Cannon and Small Arms having been obliged to throw the most of his overboard. We told him we could not supply him with any Cannon not having more than was sufficient for our own defence but have spared him Forty Small Arms.

17․ Mr Henry Johnson who was put on board your Ship the Earl of Holderness as a recruit for Bencoolen, and absented himself when she proceeded from hence, has represented to us that he was promised by Mr Higginson to be left at the nearest Settlement your honors had to England But upon his Arrival here found to his great Concern and

It was further explained by the Secretary that at the time of the departure of the ships, numerous other matters required expedition, which was assigned as one reason for the errors committed. Additionally, it was noted that Mr Charles Stewart had quitted the service at that same time. His assistant was replaced by an individual who could not immediately become acquainted with the business, which was believed to be a contributing cause. He humbly requested that this omission, being the first charge against him, might be excused, expressing hope that he would not lose the future favour of the Court.

13. The council noted that Thomas Davis, a recruit mentioned in the list sent via the ship *Earl of Holderness*, was stated by Mr Adamson to be an individual sent out specifically to serve as his servant. Consequently, he was removed from the list of soldiers.

14. It was observed that the camlet received by the *Latham*, invoiced at £10 per C and £8 8s per C, was of such poor quality that the council had not yet been able to dispose of it entirely. There were apprehensions that the material would sustain further damage by remaining in the stores.

15. As there was a requirement for pepper for the use of the island, the council took two hundred weight from the ship *Egmont*.

16. It was recorded that Captain Ward applied to the council during the consultation of 11 June for cannon and small arms, having been compelled to throw most of his own overboard. He was informed that no cannon could be supplied, as the island possessed no more than was sufficient for its own defence, but forty small arms were spared for his use.

17. Mr Henry Johnson, who had been placed on board the *Earl of Holderness* as a recruit for Bencoolen and who had absented himself when the ship departed, represented his case to the council. He claimed that Mr Higginson had promised he would be left at the settlement nearest to England. Upon his arrival at St Helena, he expressed great concern and found that

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disappointments that by some mistake or other he was placed in the list
of recruits for Fort Marlborough. That having an aged Father to whom he
is only Son and Heir, and at present an Annuity of Fifty pounds paid by
Messrs Snow and Denne Bankers it would therefore for these reasons put
him to many and great inconveniences to be removed to India, and there
being Simon Cole a recruit under the same Circumstances who says he
was promised to be sent either to Madras or Bencoolen and he informing
us that Mr Carter your Deputy Governor of Fort Marlborough is a
Relation of his we therefore agreed to let him go in the room of Mr Johnson

18․ We received only eight of the ten Recruits sent
by the Delawar. William King having deserted and Thomas
Penson died on the Passage. The men we received were very
good ones.

19․ The Deputy Governor and Council of Fort
Marlborough having wrote to us for the four recruits for
that place which deserted here from the Ship Egmont we
purpose to send them by the Delawar.

20․ Edward Biggs who was a Serjeant in his
Majesties Service in India having bills of Exchange on your
Honors for one hundred and fifteen pounds Sterling being
in want of money to supply the necessities of himself, and two
Gunners that were taken prisoners in the Garrison, and
stripped of all their Cloaths and necessaries, applyed to us for
the sum of ten pounds which we advanced him he giving a
receipt on the back of the first bill for it. We likewise have taken
two Certificates from him of his having received that money
one of which we herewith transmit to you.

21․ We have now in your Stores Salt provisions
for near two years, we therefore have not indented for any to
come by the next Store ship.

disappointment that, due to some error, he had been placed on the list of recruits for Fort Marlborough. He stated that he was the only son and heir to an aged father and currently possessed an annuity of fifty pounds paid by Messrs Snow and Denne, bankers. For these reasons, he argued that being sent to India would cause great inconvenience. As there was another recruit, Simon Cole, under similar circumstances who expressed a desire to be sent to Madras or Bencoolen and noted that Mr Carter, the Deputy Governor of Fort Marlborough, was a relation, it was agreed that he should go in the place of Mr Johnson.

18. It was reported that only eight of the ten recruits sent via the *Delaware* were received. William King deserted and Thomas Penson died during the passage. The men who did arrive were noted to be of very good quality.

19. The Deputy Governor and Council of Fort Marlborough having requested the four recruits for that settlement who had deserted from the ship *Egmont* at St Helena, the council intended to send them via the *Delaware*.

20. Edward Biggs, formerly a sergeant in His Majesty's service in India, applied for assistance. He possessed bills of exchange drawn on the Court for one hundred and fifteen pounds sterling but required funds to provide for himself and two gunners who had been taken prisoner and stripped of their clothing and necessaries. The council advanced him the sum of ten pounds, for which he provided a receipt on the back of the first bill. Two certificates acknowledging the payment were taken from him, one of which was transmitted with the current correspondence.

21. It was observed that the stores currently contained salt provisions sufficient for nearly two years. Consequently, no request for such provisions was included in the indent for the next store ship.

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We are
Honorable Sirs

Your most Obedient
and most humble Servants
Signed

Chaᵣ Hutchinson
John Skottowe
John Clark
Purling

List of the Honorable Company’s Packet from St Helena
pᵣ Ship London the 15ᵗʰ July 1759 Vizᵗ

N° 1․ Governor and Councils General Letter dated 15ᵗʰ July 1759
2․ Consultations from 26ᵗʰ March to the 13ᵗʰ July 1759
3․ Duplicate D° from 21ˢᵗ August 1758 to 21ˢᵗ March 1759
4․ Duplicate Governor & Councils General Letter dated the 24ᵗʰ March 1759
5․ List of Officers & Servants taken the 15ᵗʰ July 1759

The following list of documents was provided as part of the Honorable Company's packet, dispatched from St Helena via the ship *London* on 15 July 1759.

1. The General Letter from the Governor and Council, dated 15 July 1759 and signed by Charles Hutchinson, John Skottowe, John Clark, and Matthew Purling.

2. The records of consultations held between 26 March and 13 July 1759.

3. A duplicate of the consultations held between 21 August 1758 and 21 March 1759.

4. A duplicate of the General Letter from the Governor and Council, dated 24 March 1759 and signed by Charles Hutchinson, John Adamson, and John Clark.

5. A list of officers and servants as recorded on 15 July 1759.

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6․ Second receipt of the Packet pᵣ Ship Prince Edward
7․ First Do for Do pᵣ Ship Latham
8․ Cash account from the 21ˢᵗ March to the 11ᵗʰ April 1759
9․ Do from 12ᵗʰ April to 11ᵗʰ May
10․ Do from 12ᵗʰ May to 11ᵗʰ June
11․ List of Garrison Stores remaining the 11ᵗʰ April 1759
12․ Duplicate Do from 21ˢᵗ August to 11ᵗʰ September 1758
13․ Do from 12ᵗʰ Septᵣ to 11ᵗʰ October
14․ Do from 12ᵗʰ October to 11ᵗʰ November
15․ Do from 12ᵗʰ November to 11ᵗʰ December
16․ Do from 12ᵗʰ December to 11ᵗʰ January 1759
17․ Do from 12ᵗʰ January to 11ᵗʰ February
18․ Do from 12ᵗʰ February to 11ᵗʰ March
19․ Do from 12ᵗʰ March to 23ᵈ Do
20․ Do Account of Ship Latham’s Cargo
21․ Effective State of the Garrison
22․ Governor’s Letter to the Secret Committee
23․ Duplicate Minutes of the Engagement between the English and French Squadrons
24․ Do List of Rents for the Year ending the 11ᵗʰ October 1758
25․ Do List of Families
26․ Do of the Honorable Company’s Blacks
27․ Muster Rolls of the Garrison
28․ Indent of Stores wanted for the Service of the Year 1760
29․ List of Stores remaining in the Honorable Company’s Warehouse
30․ Indent of Medicines for the Service of the Year 1760
31․ List of Marriages &c
32․ Certificate of Flour pᵣ Ship Earl of Holdernesse
33․ List of Discharged Soldiers
34․ List of Artillery Stores remainᵈ October 11ᵗʰ 1758
35․ Covenants Executed by Mr Matthew Purling
36․ Covenant Do by William Wrangham
37․ Covenant Do by Richard Law
38․ Edward Biggs receipt for ten pounds advanced him in part of a Bill of Exchange drawn by the President & Council of Fort St George

6. The second receipt for the packet sent via the ship *Prince Edward* was included.

7. The first receipt for the packet sent via the ship *Latham* was provided.

8. The cash account for the period between 21 March and 11 April 1759 was enclosed.

9. The cash account for the period between 12 April and 11 May 1759 was transmitted.

10. The cash account for the period between 12 May and 11 June 1759 was included.

11. A list was provided of the garrison stores remaining as of 11 April 1759.

12. A duplicate cash account for the period between 21 August and 11 September 1758 was enclosed.

13. A duplicate cash account for the period between 12 September and 11 October 1758 was provided.

14. A duplicate cash account for the period between 12 October and 11 November 1758 was included.

15. A duplicate cash account for the period between 12 November and 11 December 1758 was transmitted.

16. A duplicate cash account for the period between 12 December 1758 and 11 January 1759 was enclosed.

17. A duplicate cash account for the period between 12 January and 11 February 1759 was provided.

18. A duplicate cash account for the period between 12 February and 11 March 1759 was included.

19. A duplicate cash account for the period between 12 March and 23 March 1759 was transmitted.

20. A duplicate account of the cargo for the ship *Latham* was enclosed.

21. A report on the effective state of the garrison was provided.

22. A letter from the Governor addressed to the Secret Committee was included.

23. Duplicate minutes detailing the engagement between the English and French naval squadrons were transmitted.

24. A duplicate list of rents for the year ending 11 October 1758 was enclosed.

25. A duplicate list of families residing on St Helena was provided.

26. A duplicate list of the Honorable Company's black population was included.

27. The muster rolls for the garrison were transmitted.

28. An indent of stores required for the service of the year 1760 was enclosed.

29. A list of stores remaining in the Honorable Company's warehouse was provided.

30. An indent of medicines required for the service of the year 1760 was included.

31. A list of marriages and other relevant records was transmitted.

32. A certificate regarding the flour received via the ship Earl of Holdernesse was enclosed.

33. A list of discharged soldiers was provided.

34. A list of artillery stores remaining as of 11 October 1758 was included.

35. The covenants executed by Mr Matthew Purling were transmitted.

36. The covenants executed by William Wrangham were enclosed.

37. The covenants executed by Richard Law were provided.

38. A receipt from Edward Biggs was included for the sum of ten pounds advanced to him as part of a bill of exchange drawn by the President and Council of Fort St George.

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39․ Account of the Ship Hichester’s Cargo
40․ Account of the Ship London’s Cargo
41․ Account of the Ship Egmont’s Cargo
42․ Duplicate of Ship Latham’s Account
43․ Ship Hichester’s Account
44․ Do London Do
45․ Do Egmont’s Do
46․ Duplicate List of the Packet pᵣ Ship Latham
47․ Ship Earl of Holdernesse’s Account

39. An account detailing the cargo of the ship Hichester was provided.

40. An account detailing the cargo of the ship London was included.

41. An account detailing the cargo of the ship Egmont was enclosed.

42. A duplicate of the account for the ship Latham was transmitted.

43. The account for the ship Hichester was provided.

44. The account for the ship London was included.

45. The account for the ship Egmont was enclosed.

46. A duplicate list of the packet sent via the ship Latham was transmitted.

47. The account for the ship Earl of Holdernesse was provided.

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To the Honble Vᵗˢ
Honble Sirs

1․ We wrote last to you by your ship London that sailed from hence on the 16ᵗʰ of July, with your ships Colchester & Egmont, by which occasion we then acquainted you with all the news we could learn respecting your affairs. Ships were to be dispatched soon after the arrival of the Delawar, we could not until now fully answer your letters & duplicates of what we then wrote we herewith transmit to your Honours.

2․ We are glad to hear that His Majesty’s ship the Colchester arrived safe in Ireland with those ships you mention that sailed from hence under her convoy.

3․ It gives us pleasure to hear that the Carnarvon was retaken & carried into Milford Haven & that the Falmouth, altho’ in a sickly disabled condition, arrived safe at Greenock near Glasgow in Scotland, which two ships we hope will arrive safe in the Thames.

4․ We are sorry to hear of the unfortunate accident that happened to your ship Cork.

5․ We are concerned for the late arrival of your ships the last season & their long detention in Ireland for convoy, we hope that inconvenience will not happen again.

6․ It is a great pleasure to us to hear that His Majesty has been graciously pleased to order the reinforcement you mention to the Squadron in the East Indies, which we hope will be successful & be of great service to your Honours affairs there.

7․ The land forces His Majesty has been pleased to assist you with, we hope will arrive safe, & in good condition, & in all respects answer their intended service.

1. The council noted that their last correspondence was sent via the ship *London*, which departed from St Helena on 16 July in company with the *Colchester* and the *Egmont*. On that occasion, the council provided all available information regarding the affairs of the Company. It was explained that, as the ships were to be dispatched shortly after the arrival of the *Delaware*, a full response to the letters from the Court was not possible until the present time. Duplicates of the previous correspondence were transmitted with this letter.

2. Satisfaction was expressed upon hearing that His Majesty's ship *Colchester* had arrived safely in Ireland with the vessels that had sailed under her convoy.

3. The council noted with pleasure that the *Carnarvon* was retaken and carried into Milford Haven. It was also noted that the *Falmouth* had arrived safely at Greenock, near Glasgow, despite being in a sickly and disabled condition. The hope was expressed that both ships would arrive safely in the Thames.

4. Regret was expressed regarding the unfortunate accident that occurred to the ship *Cork*.

5. Concern was voiced regarding the late arrival of the ships during the previous season and their lengthy detention in Ireland whilst awaiting convoy. The hope was expressed that such an inconvenience would not occur again.

6. The council noted with great pleasure that His Majesty had been graciously pleased to order a reinforcement for the squadron in the East Indies. It was hoped that this measure would prove successful and be of significant service to the affairs of the Company.

7. The hope was expressed that the land forces with which His Majesty had assisted the Company would arrive safely and in good condition, and that they would effectively fulfil their intended service.

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8․ Your Honors may depend upon our giving your Commanders so long as the 20th continues no hostile intentions, to forward to you the ensuing Packets as well as all others Packets, they may be entrusted with from your servants in India, as likewise from us, from the first Port they arrive at, whether in England, Scotland, or Ireland, with the care & precaution mentioned in your instructions to them.

9․ We have received the copy of the new regulations you have thought proper to make with regard to the command of your Ships valeting.

10․ The French Ships you mentioned to have sailed for India with some Land Forces on board, we hope will be soon defeated by Admiral Pocock’s Squadron. We are glad to hear that L’Orient is in so low a condition, & hope they will not be able to succeed in any of their attempts against your settlements in India, we shall take all methods in our power, to frustrate any attacks they may make upon this Place.

11․ It gives us great satisfaction that the supplies hitherto afforded your shipping, have met with your approbation, & we shall make it our constant endeavor, to manage the stock on the Island so as to furnish their several demands as far as it is possible.

12․ We thank your Honors for complying so fully with our indents. We shall continue to have the List of Demands before us, when we are forming our Indents, & take care not to write for more than what is really wanted. The Stores received by the Prince Henry could not be added to the List of Demands, which was made up to the 11th of April, because that Ship did not arrive until the 18th of that Month.

13․ According to your order, we directed your Storekeeper to weigh the Flour received by the Delawar, in presence of the Gunner, or other proper Officers of the Ship, which he has accordingly done, & by some of the Packs we have

8. The council assured the Court that commanders would be instructed to forward all packets entrusted to them from India, as well as those from St Helena, from the first port of arrival in England, Scotland, or Ireland. This would be done with the care and precaution outlined in the instructions.

9. The council acknowledged the receipt of the copy of the new regulations established by the Court regarding the command of the Company's ships.

10. Hope was expressed that the French ships reported to have sailed for India with land forces would be defeated by the squadron under Admiral Pocock. Satisfaction was noted regarding the low condition of L'Orient, and the council stated they would take all possible measures to frustrate any attacks made upon St Helena.

11. The council expressed satisfaction that the supplies provided to the shipping had met with the approval of the Court and pledged to manage the stock on the island to meet future demands.

12. Gratitude was expressed to the Court for complying with the indents. The council promised to review the list of demands carefully when forming future indents to ensure only necessary items were requested. It was explained that stores received via the *Prince Henry* were not included in the list of demands made up to 11 April, as that vessel did not arrive until 18 April.

13. In accordance with orders, the storekeeper was directed to weigh the flour received by the *Delaware* in the presence of the gunner or other ship officers, which was duly performed.

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opened it appears to be good, & conform to its weight, in the Invoice, & if any deficiency shall appear upon weighing the Flour we shall hereafter receive, we shall be very particular in distinguishing the number of each sack wherein any, & what short weight shall be found, to the end that your Honors may obtain satisfaction.

14․ The certificate for the Flour landed here shall for the future be transmitted to you by three different opportunities as you have been pleased to direct, according to the form we received by the Prince Henry.

15․ We desire your Honors will be pleased to send, by the next Store Ships, the Timber for a new Draw Bridge which we wrote for in our Letter of the 10th August 1758.

16․ We have received the Tables dined you have been pleased to send for the use of the Castle.

17․ We thank your Honors for giving orders to your servants in Ireland, to send us a Candlestick a better wrought, than those we have lately received, & that you intend hereafter to direct your President & Council of Fort St George, to send us from thence the best Rice they can procure, & we shall be careful to represent to your venerable Presidencies the quality of the Goods we receive from them.

18․ We are obliged to your Honors for the liberty you have been pleased to give us, for taking a Bale of Efficient of your Ships returning from Mocha, for which we shall give the Commanders a receipt.

19․ Finding that the two Chests of Treasure, we received by your Ships the Earl of Holdernesse, with the Money we have taken for Bills of Exchange drawn on your Honors, with what is generally paid in for Store Goods sold, will be sufficient for the Expences of the current Year, we therefore have not taken any Cash out of the Ship Delawar.

20․ Having not more Gun Powder in Store, than to compleat the Garrison with the usual necessary rounds, we could not spare any, for the service of your Settlement on the West Coast.

Upon opening, the flour appeared to be good and conformed to the weight stated in the invoice. The council stated that if any deficiency should appear in the flour received hereafter, they would be particular in distinguishing the number of each sack where short weight was found, so that the Court might obtain satisfaction.

14. It was confirmed that the certificates for the flour landed at St Helena would, in future, be transmitted by three different opportunities as directed, following the form received via the ship *Prince Henry*.

15. A request was made for the Court to send timber for a new drawbridge via the next store ships, as originally requested in the letter of 10 August 1758.

16. Receipt of the tables sent for the use of the Castle was acknowledged.

17. Gratitude was expressed for the orders given to servants in Ireland to send a candlestick of better workmanship than those recently received. It was also noted that the Court intended to direct the President and Council of Fort St George to supply the best rice available, and the council promised to report on the quality of goods received from the various presidencies.

18. The council expressed its obligation for the permission granted to take a bale of efficiency from ships returning from Mocha, for which a receipt would be provided to the commanders.

19. It was determined that the two chests of treasure received via the ship *Earl of Holdernesse*, combined with money received for bills of exchange and store goods sold, would be sufficient for the expenses of the current year. Consequently, no cash was taken from the ship *Delaware*.

20. As the gunpowder in store was sufficient only to provide the garrison with the usual necessary rounds, none could be spared for the service of the settlement on the West Coast.

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21․ Your Orders not being able to pay more than two Shillings pʳ piece for the Salt provisions delivered for their use, out of your Stores, it was fixed to them, at that price by Mr Dandas & Council in the Year 1745, which is considerably less than the prime cost, or what it is invoiced at, & from whence arises the loss in the articles of Beef & Pork, as appears on your Books. The price & quantities delivered to the Garrison, shall be particularly specified in the Storekeepers Collections. The valuation on the Remains & Issue, have been always ascertained, & whatever is sold to the Planters, is charged to them at forty pʳ Cent. Your servants both Civil & Military Officers, have constantly paid ten pʳ Cent advance upon Invoice, until last Year, when upon their complaining that it came excessively dear at times, we thought it but reasonable to indulge them to have Beef & Pork from your Stores, at the same price the Garrison pays for it, viz two Shillings pʳ piece, for when they paid ten pʳ Cent advance thereon, the Beef & Pork upon an Average comes to nine pence pʳ pound, & as their demands in these articles are only for their own use. We hope your Honors will be pleased to confirm this indulgence to them, & at the same time we beg leave to observe to you, that one motive for fixing the price of the Beef & Pork under prime cost, was the gain that arose upon taking the Flour for the Garrison, which you will find fully to counterbalance the loss upon the Beef & Pork.

22․ We shall be glad to receive your Honors Directions, with regard to the punishment of Criminals upon the Island, & in the interim, will send off a Prisoner to England as an atrocious Offender, with a full & authentick account of their Crimes, & our proceedings thereon.

23․ We shall pay the usual compliments to all Foreign Gentlemen this Rank intitles them to, And your Standing order for not allowing any Foreigner whatsoever to see the Country has been, & always shall be observed, as well as

21. It was noted that the price for salt provisions delivered from the stores was fixed at two shillings per piece by Mr Dandas and Council in 1745. This rate was considerably lower than the prime cost or the invoiced value, which accounted for the losses appearing on the books for beef and pork. The council stated that the price and quantities delivered to the garrison would be specified in the storekeeper's collections. Whilst the valuation of remains and issues was always ascertained, goods sold to planters were charged at a rate of forty per cent advance. Civil and military officers had previously paid ten per cent above the invoice price, but following complaints regarding the high cost, the council permitted them to purchase beef and pork at the same price as the garrison. It was observed that at the ten per cent rate, the meat averaged nine pence per pound. The council requested that this indulgence be confirmed, noting that the loss on meat was counterbalanced by the profit gained from the flour supplied to the garrison.

22. The council expressed a desire to receive directions regarding the punishment of criminals on St Helena. In the interim, it was intended to send an atrocious offender as a prisoner to England, accompanied by a full and authentic account of the crimes and the proceedings held.

23. It was confirmed that the usual compliments would be paid to all foreign gentlemen as their rank entitled them. The standing order prohibiting any foreigner from seeing the country had been, and would continue to be, strictly observed.

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…hate for preventing them, as much as possible, from viewing or making remarks on the Stockpurchases.

24․ As we are satisfied Richard Law is qualified to be a Writer in your Service, we acquainted him that your Honors have been pleased to confirm him as such.

25․ Your orders & resolutions, relative to Mr John Damoon & the transcripts of Mr Richards, have been duly executed. But notwithstanding our several messages to Mr Damoon, requiring him to send to us whatever copies he took or had caused to be taken of the Consultations, Letters, or other Papers, that stand on your Honors Books, he went away without sending them, & told Mr Wrangham the Secretary, when he went to him for them, that he had no copies of any Papers belonging to your Honors, except a few old Plantation Accounts, altho’ Mr Wrangham now declares he transcribed as many general Letters for Mr Damoon, out of your Honors Books, as filled a Book of two Quires of Paper, or more, which we suppose he has carried with him. Thomas Dunn likewise declares he copied parts of several Consultations for Mr Damoon, at the time he was employed in the Secretary’s Office, but does not at present recollect what they were. Mr Damoon left with his Attorneys, to be sold as his own, a Bell metal Mortar, two or three Pewter Inkstands, & a mahogt Box or Bar, for a Chamber Door, which things properly belong to your Honors, & were all sold except the Mortar, which was claimed by Mr Barclay your Surgeon, because he had lent it to Mr Damoon, about two years ago, it also appears by the declaration of Solomon Jacobs your Assistant entered in our Consultation of the 25ᵗʰ July, that Mr Damoon has had some hundred weight of Iron, which was the property of your Honors.

26․ We shall be very particular in advising you of the several Sums of Money we receive into hand, for Bills of Exchange drawn on your Honors, & will be careful to see that the Letters, Consultations, Cash Accounts, & Bills, agree.

Methods were to be taken to prevent foreign gentlemen from viewing or making remarks upon the fortifications of the island.

24. Having been satisfied that Richard Law was qualified to serve as a writer, the council informed him that the Court had been pleased to confirm his appointment.

25. The orders and resolutions concerning Mr John Adamson and the transcripts of Mr Richards were duly executed. Despite several messages requiring Mr Adamson to surrender all copies of consultations, letters, or other papers from the Company's books, he departed without doing so. He informed the Secretary, Mr Wrangham, that he possessed no such papers except for a few old plantation accounts. However, Mr Wrangham declared that he had transcribed enough general letters for Mr Adamson to fill a book of at least two quires. Thomas Dunn also declared that he had copied portions of several consultations for Mr Adamson whilst employed in the Secretary's Office. Furthermore, Mr Adamson left various items to be sold as his own property, including pewter inkstands and a mahogany box for a chamber door, which properly belonged to the Company. It was also noted that he had possessed several hundredweight of iron that was the property of the Company.

26. The council promised to be particular in advising the Court of all sums received for bills of exchange and to ensure that all letters, consultations, cash accounts, and bills were in agreement.

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with each other, & we hope your Secretary will be more circumspect in his Duty, & prevent such mistakes happening any more, but he representing to us, that it is impossible for him to carry on the business in a thorough correct manner, without more assistance in his Office than one Person, there always having been heretofore, until your Thoughts proper, to order Thomas Dunn to be dismissed, & as we are likewise sensible for the foregoing reasons, that another Writer is much wanted, we therefore hope your Honors will be pleased to allow of one to be added to the Secretary’s Office.

27․ We acquainted your Honors in our last Letter, that we had & still have a sufficient quantity of Salt Provisions for the use of your Garrison for near two years consumption, we therefore shall not have occasion to purchase any from your returning Commanders this year, but when we are in want, we will endeavour to supply ourselves from them in the manner you have directed.

28․ In consequence of the orders to Capt Nash received from your Honors, he reported to us, that he had made a strict search on board the Delawar, but had not met with any unlicenced or illicit goods belonging to Capt Dalton, or any other Person or Persons whatsoever.

29․ Since our last Letter to you of the 15th July, the following Ships have arrived here vizᵗ
The Worcester on the 23ᵈ
Prince George 26ᵗʰ of July from Bengall
Bombay Castle 27ᵗʰ
Anne Briton 29ᵗʰ of July from Bombay
Admiral Watson 30ᵗʰ

30․ Your Ship Delawar proceeded on her Voyage for the West Coast on the 3ᵈ of July.

31․ The material News we have been able to collect from these Ships is, That the French having heard or learnt that the Troops intended for Madras were gone to Bombay, immediately formed a design of taking that Settlement.

It was hoped that the Secretary would be more circumspect in his duty to prevent further mistakes. However, he represented that it was impossible to conduct business in a thoroughly correct manner without more than one assistant. As Thomas Dunn had been dismissed by order of the Court, and it was sensed that another writer was much required, the hope was expressed that the Court would allow an additional writer to be appointed to the Secretary's Office.

27. The council had previously advised that a sufficient quantity of salt provisions remained for nearly two years of consumption. Consequently, no purchases would be made from returning commanders during the current year, though future requirements would be supplied in the manner directed by the Court.

28. Following orders received from the Court, Captain Nash reported that a strict search had been conducted on board the Delaware. No unlicensed or illicit goods belonging to Captain Dalton or any other person were discovered.

29. Since the previous letter dated 15 July, the following ships arrived at St Helena:

* The Worcester on 23 July.

* The Prince George from Bengal on 26 July.

* The Bombay Castle on 27 July.

* The Anne Briton from Bombay on 29 July.

* The Admiral Watson on 30 July.

30. The ship Delaware proceeded on her voyage to the West Coast on 3 July.

31. The material news collected from these ships indicated that the French, upon learning that the troops intended for Madras had gone to Bombay, immediately formed a design to take that settlement.

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and accordingly began the siege on the 11ᵗʰ of November. Admiral Pocock when he arrived at Bombay found his Majesties Ships the Cumberland, & Grafton, with six of your Honours China Ships there. He immediately dispatched five China Ships, & the Revenge, with the Troops for Madras, under the Convoy of a twenty Gun Ship. The Shaftsbury not coming off in time from the other Ships arrived at Madras on the 9ᵗʰ of Febʳʸ. India landed his Men & obliged two French Frigates the Hardee & Fidelle which were then in the Road, to retire to Pondicherry. On the 16ᵗʰ of Febʳʸ the twenty Gun Ship, with the remainder of the Ships under her Convoy arrived at Madras. The morning after Monsʳ Dalby decamped with so much precipitation, that he left all his Cannon & military Stores behind him. Our loss we are informed was near five hundred, & the French fifteen hundred Men.

32․ The Shaftsbury is sent to Batavia for Stores. Two China Ships were going to the Negracco for Timber & the others remain at Madras, until the proper season for their proceeding for China. The Warren sailed from Bengall with supplies for Madras on the 16ᵗʰ of Febʳʸ & the Halders was expected at Bengall from Mocha about April. The Pitt was spoke with on the 15ᵗʰ of Novʳ in the Streights of Malacca, having last her passage to China.

33․ Admiral Pocock, with the Squadron under his command, consisting of nine Ships of the Line, & one fire Ship, with your Honours Ships, the Ynda, the Briton, & Admiral Watson, sailed from Bombay on the 8ᵗʰ of April. The Fine Briton & Admiral Watson parted Company from the Squadron, on the 20ᵗʰ of that Month off Ceylon. They left at Bombay the Shetham & Eastcourt. The former was ordered to Bengall & the latter was to be dispatched for Europe about the latter end of April. The passengers on board the Admiral Watson are Capt Latham & Family, Capt Stanford, & Mr Jackson.

34․ Upon examining the Packages received from the

The siege was commenced on 11 November. Upon arrival at Bombay, Admiral Pocock discovered His Majesty's ships Cumberland and Grafton, alongside six Company ships from China. Five China ships and the Revenge were immediately dispatched with troops for Madras under the convoy of a twenty-gun ship. The Shaftsbury, having failed to depart in time with the other vessels, arrived at Madras on 9 February. Men were landed from the India, which forced two French frigates, the Hardee and Fidelle, to retire to Pondicherry. On 16 February, the twenty-gun ship and the remaining vessels under convoy reached Madras. The following morning, Monsieur Dalby decamped with such precipitation that all cannon and military stores were left behind. Information was received that the English loss amounted to nearly five hundred men, while the French lost fifteen hundred.

32. The Shaftsbury was sent to Batavia for stores. Two China ships were dispatched to the Negracco for timber, while the others remained at Madras until the proper season for proceeding to China. The Warren sailed from Bengal on 16 February with supplies for Madras, and the Halders was expected at Bengal from Mocha around April. The Pitt was spoken with on 15 November in the Straits of Malacca, having lost her passage to China.

33. Admiral Pocock sailed from Bombay on 8 April with a squadron consisting of nine ships of the line, one fireship, and the Company ships India, Briton, and Admiral Watson. The Anne Briton and Admiral Watson parted company from the squadron on 20 April off Ceylon. The Shetham and Eastcourt were left at Bombay, with the former ordered to Bengal and the latter intended for dispatch to Europe towards the end of April. The passengers on board the Admiral Watson were recorded as Captain Latham and family, Captain Stanford, and Mr Jackson.

34. An examination was conducted of the packages received from the-

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Delaware, we found 26 Mens heavy Jackets, 23 Pᵣ Womens Homespun Breeches, & 25 Mens cotton check Shirts, 24 Boys Shirts, & 7 Monmouth Caps, so much damaged by wet, that we returned them to Captᵑ & order’d them to be wrote off the back of the Bill of Lading. We shall therefore want that allowance to be supply’d, this deficiency over & above what is intended for.

35․ We have given Captᵑ Clarke an Order to receive on board the Admiral Watson, from Cleary, Alexander Cullow, Josᵗ Stephenson, Wᵐ Martin, Jasᵗ Carmichael, Geoᵗ Dry, Wᵐ Waterhouse & others, they being returned by the Surgeon as incurable, whose certificates specifying their Names & Occasions, we inclosed in the Packet.

36․ We have likewise put on board the Admiral Watson, two water engines, that are unserviceable, & which we desire your Honors will be pleased to have repaired, whenever by the first opportunity.

37․ Since our last letter to you, the appearance of the Convoy is not so favorable, as it then was, nor the Cattle in so good condition, the usual Rains having failed, from the want of which, the grass in the Pastures is now very short.

St Helena
8ᵗʰ August 1759

We are
Honble Sirs
Your most obedᵗ & most humble
Servants
(signed)
Charles Hutchinson
John Skottowe
John Clive
Matthew Rushing

Upon examining the packages received from the Delaware, it was found that 26 men's heavy jackets, 23 pairs of women's homespun breeches, 25 men's cotton check shirts, 24 boys' shirts, and 7 Monmouth caps were so badly damaged by wet that they were returned to Captain Clarke. These items were ordered to be removed from the Bill of Lading, and a request was made for the deficiency to be supplied.

35. An order was given to Captain Clarke to receive several individuals on board the Admiral Watson, including Cleary, Alexander Cullow, Joseph Stephenson, William Martin, James Carmichael, George Dry, and William Waterhouse. They were returned by the Surgeon as incurable, and certificates specifying their names and conditions were enclosed in the packet.

36. Two unserviceable water engines were placed on board the Admiral Watson with the request that the Court have them repaired and returned at the first opportunity.

37. The council noted that since the last letter, the appearance of the convoy was less favourable and the cattle were not in good condition. This was attributed to the failure of the usual rains, which left the grass in the pastures very short.

St Helena

8 August 1759

The letter was signed by the humble servants of the Court: Charles Hutchinson, John Skottowe, John Clive, and Matthew Rushing.

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List of the Honble Company’s Packet from St Helena
P Ship Admiral Watson Dated the 8th August 1759 vizt

1․ Origl Honble Generl Letter dated the 8th August 1759
2․ Duplicate Do. of Do. dated the 15th July Do.
3․ Consultations from 16th July to 25th July Do.
4․ List of Officers & Servants taken the 8th August Do.
5․ First Receipt for the Packets of Ship London
6․ Second Do. for Do. of Ship Latham
7․ Cash Acco. from 12th June to 11th July 1759
8․ Do. from 12th July to 11th Augt Do.
9․ Duplicate Do. from 24th March to 11th April Do.
10․ Do. from 12th April to 11th May Do.
11․ Do. from 12th May to 11th June Do.
12․ Do. of Garrison Stores from 11th April Do.
13․ Do. of Ship Lymons Cargo
14․ Do. of Ship London Do.
15․ Do. of Ship Colchester Do.
16․ Effectual State of the Garrison
17․ Copy Letter to the Secret Committee
18․ Duplicate Indent of Provisions for yͤ service of yͤ Year 1759
19․ List of Stores remaining in yͤ Honble Comp͞s Ware House 11th April 1759
20․ Duplicate Indent of Medicines
21․ Do. Certificate for Stores rec͞d by the Ship St Demetre
22․ Do. of Exchange Advice
23․ Do. List of Artillery Stores rec͞d 11th April 1759
24․ Do. of Colchester Acco.
25․ Do. of London Do.
26․ Do. of Lymons Do.
27․ Do. of Earl of Holderness Do.
28․ Account of Ship Delaware
29․ Do. of Ship Admiral Watson
30․ Copy of a letter from Monsr Lally to Mr De Loupit Gov͞r of Pondicherry

The list of the Honourable Company’s packet from St Helena was prepared for the ship Admiral Watson, dated 8 August 1759, and included the following items:

1. The original General Letter dated 8 August 1759.

2. A duplicate of the General Letter dated 15 July 1759.

3. Consultations recorded from 16 July to 25 July 1759.

4. A list of officers and servants taken on 8 August 1759.

5. The first receipt for the packets of the ship London.

6. The second receipt for the packets of the ship Latham.

7. Cash accounts from 12 June to 11 July 1759.

8. Cash accounts from 12 July to 11 August 1759.

9. A duplicate cash account from 24 March to 11 April 1759.

10. A duplicate cash account from 12 April to 11 May 1759.

11. A duplicate cash account from 12 May to 11 June 1759.

12. A duplicate account of Garrison Stores from 11 April 1759.

13. A duplicate account of the cargo for the ship Lymons.

14. A duplicate account of the cargo for the ship London.

15. A duplicate account of the cargo for the ship Colchester.

16. A report on the effectual state of the garrison.

17. A copy of a letter addressed to the Secret Committee.

18. A duplicate indent of provisions for the service of the year 1759.

19. A list of stores remaining in the Honourable Company’s warehouse as of 11 April 1759.

20. A duplicate indent of medicines.

21. A duplicate certificate for stores received by the ship St Demetre.

22. A duplicate of exchange advice.

23. A duplicate list of artillery stores received on 11 April 1759.

24. A duplicate of the Colchester account.

25. A duplicate of the London account.

26. A duplicate of the Lymons account.

27. A duplicate of the Earl of Holderness account.

28. An account of the ship Delaware.

29. An account of the ship Admiral Watson.

30. A copy of a letter from Monsieur Lally to Mr De Loupit, the Governor of Pondicherry.

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31․ Duplicate of Flour recd by the Ship Delaware.

32․ Abstract of Ship Worcester Cargo.

33․ Do․ Do․ from George.

34․ Do․ of Do․ Bombay Cables.

35․ Do․ of Do․ Rice Returns.

36․ Invoice of Ships Boats at Bassora.

37․ Certificate returned to some invalid Soldiers.

38․ Duplicate Certificate of David Byron for the receipt of Ten Pounds upon a Bill of Exchange.

To the Honble Vᵃ
Bombay

We wrote to you last by your Ship Admiral Watson, by which opportunity we acquainted you of the safe arrival of your Ships Worcester, Prince George, Indle Briton & Bombay Castle, & the news of your affairs that came to the knowledge of the several Commanders of them, as they informed us.

The Ships Worcester, Prince George & Bombay Castle having brought here 42 French Prisoners off the enclosed List, that were obliged to be put on shore on account of sickness, who representing to us they were allowed two Rupees a Month by your Presidents Council of Bengall in order to pay for washing, buy Tobacco & other necessaries, & they applying to us for the same indulgence, we thought proper to comply with their request, & have accordingly given them four Shillings & six Pence each Man, which amounts to some Pounds more Shillings. We make no doubt of its being

31. A duplicate of the flour received by the ship Delaware.

32. An abstract of the ship Worcester cargo.

33. A duplicate abstract for the Prince George.

34. A duplicate abstract of the Bombay Castle.

35. A duplicate abstract of the Anne Briton.

36. An invoice of ship's boats at Bassora.

37. A certificate returned for several invalid soldiers.

38. A duplicate certificate of David Byron for the receipt of ten pounds upon a bill of exchange.

---

The council reported that their last correspondence was sent via the ship Admiral Watson, on which occasion they noted the safe arrival of the ships Worcester, Prince George, Anne Briton, and Bombay Castle. The council provided information regarding the Company’s affairs based on the reports from the several commanders.

The ships Worcester, Prince George, and Bombay Castle arrived with 42 French prisoners, as detailed in an enclosed list, who were put ashore due to sickness. These prisoners represented that they had been allowed two rupees a month by the President and Council of Bengal for washing, tobacco, and other necessities. Having received an application for the same indulgence, the council thought it proper to comply and provided each man with four shillings and six pence, totalling several pounds and shillings.

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referred to your Honors, by Mr Dupré the French Company’s
Agent in London, as has been regularly done for the like
occasions by Monsr De Langle Govr of Pondicherry, while
they were Prisoners in India.

Samuel Falconer your late Surgeon having died
intestate, the disposal of two Africans here of course, fell
under our cognizance, which were sold at Public Auction, in
consequence whereof we received into your Cash, & brought as
Credit to him upon your Books (after paying his Debts)
the sum of £372. 19. 10. & Mr Purling having produced
a Letter of Attorney from Mr Alexr Falconer, Brother & Heir
to the said Saml Falconer, empowering him to act on the
premisses, We acquainted Mr Purling to advise Mr Alexr
Falconer, that there is such a Credit upon your Books
here, in favor of his late Brother, upon proper application
to your Honors you would pay him that sum. we have
therefore ordered the above £372. 19. 10 to be wrote off
your Books here, to Account Current London.

Capt Hutchison not having delivered to us any letter
Invoice, or Bill of Lading for the Stores consigned from
Bombay for the use of this Island. We therefore cannot
ascertain any short delivery, nor the prices of them. We
have estimated their value according to the Rates we
found such articles were Invoiced from that Settlement.

The Passengers on board the Ship Worcester are Mr
Cook Nokes Clark; on board the Prince George, Capt Davis,
Frances Mrs Hamric; Capt Robert Campbell & Mr Kewin;
on board the Bombay Castle, Capt Rumbold, Mr Rumbold,
Capt Michell, Lieut Gourin & Mrs Cook; Capt Manning &
Frances Lt Butler, Capt Gardner, Mrs Gray, Mrs Marshall &c.

It was expected that this matter would be referred to the Court by Mr Dupré, the French Company’s agent in London, as had been the regular practice for similar occasions by Monsieur De Langle, the Governor of Pondicherry, whilst they were prisoners in India.

Samuel Falconer, the late surgeon, died intestate, and the disposal of two Africans consequently fell under the cognizance of the council. They were sold at public auction, and the sum of £372 19s 10d was received into the Company's cash and credited to him on the books after his debts were paid. Mr Purling produced a letter of attorney from Mr Alexander Falconer, the brother and heir to the deceased, empowering him to act. Mr Purling was advised to inform Mr Alexander Falconer of the credit on the books so that he might apply to the Court for payment. The council ordered the sum to be written off the books at St Helena to the London account current.

Captain Hutchinson did not deliver any letter, invoice, or bill of lading for the stores consigned from Bombay for the use of the island. Consequently, it was not possible to ascertain any short delivery or the correct prices. The council estimated their value according to the rates found for such articles in previous invoices from that settlement.

The passengers on board the Worcester were recorded as Mr Cook and Nokes Clark. On the Prince George, the passengers were Captain Davis, Frances Mrs Hamric, Captain Robert Campbell, and Mr Kewin. On the Bombay Castle, the passengers included Captain Rumbold, Mr Rumbold, Captain Michell, Lieutenant Gourin, Mrs Cook, Captain Manning, Frances Lieutenant Butler, Captain Gardner, Mrs Gray, and Mrs Marshall.

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to and the true Briton

Captᵗˢ Damon having represented to us in consultation of yᵉ 13ᵗʰ instant, that Stephen Champe, one of the French Prisoners, was very troublesome on board his Ship. We gave Captᵗ Backton an order to receive him on board the Ship Sine Burton, & to carry him to England.

For want of Grain, the Island & Cattle continue in much the same condition as when we wrote last to your Honours.

We are
Humble Sir
your &c
(signed)
Chas Hutchinson
John Skelton
John Clark
Mattᵗʰ Purton

St Helena
19ᵗʰ Augᵗ 1759.

List of the Honble Companys Packet from St Helena of Ship Worcester, dated the 19ᵗʰ August 1759 arrᵈ

1 Govᵣ & Councils General Lr dated 19ᵗʰ Augᵗ 1759
2 Consultᵒⁿ from 30ᵗʰ July to 13ᵗʰ Augᵗ Do
3 List of Prisoners Settlements taken 13ᵗʰ Augᵗ Do
4 Four Receipts for the Packet of Ship Admiral Watson
5 Effective State of the Garrison
6 Govᵣ Lr to the Secret Committee
7 List of Discharge’d Prisoners, due to their Passage on the Ship Worcester

Bombay Bills

Captain Damon represented to the council in a consultation on 13 August that Stephen Champe, one of the French prisoners, was being very troublesome on board his ship. Consequently, an order was given to Captain Backton to receive the prisoner on board the Anne Briton to be carried to England.

Due to a lack of grain, the island and the cattle remained in much the same condition as previously reported.

St Helena

19 August 1759

The letter was signed by Charles Hutchinson, John Skelton, John Clark, and Matthew Purton.

---

The list of the Honourable Company's packet from St Helena for the ship Worcester, dated 19 August 1759, included the following items:

1. The Governor and Council's General Letter dated 19 August 1759.

2. Consultations recorded from 30 July to 13 August 1759.

3. A list of prisoners' settlements taken on 13 August 1759.

4. Four receipts for the packet of the ship Admiral Watson.

5. A report on the effective state of the garrison.

6. The Governor's letter addressed to the Secret Committee.

7. A list of discharged prisoners due for their passage on the ship Worcester.

Bombay Bills

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8․ Cash Accts
9․ Cash Accᵗ from 2ᵈ to 11ᵗʰ Augᵗ 1759
10․ Do from 12ᵗʰ to 19ᵗʰ Augᵗ Do
11․ List of Stores & Values in the Year 1759
12․ List of Moneys recᵈ
13․ Duplicate Govʳ & Councils General Lʳ dated 8ᵗʰ Augᵗ 1759
14․ Do Consultᵗ from 26ᵗʰ March to 13ᵗʰ July 1759
15․ Do from 15ᵗʰ to 24ᵗʰ July Do
16․ Second Receipt for the Packet of Ship London
17․ Duplicate Cash Accᵗ from 12ᵗʰ June to 11ᵗʰ July 1759
18․ Do from 12ᵗʰ July to 8ᵗʰ Augᵗ Do
19․ Certificate of the Survey of Ship Delaware
20․ Ship Delaware Accᵗ
21․ Do Ship Admiral Watson
22․ Accᵗ of the Cargo of Ship Worcester
23․ Do of Do for Prince George
24․ Do of Do for Bombay Castle
25․ Do of Do for True Briton
26․ Arrival of Ships Boats at Bombay
27․ Surgeons Certificate of some invalids & Stores sent on Ship Admiral Watson
28․ Duplicate Indent of Stores wanted for service of 1760
29․ Certificate of Turner of Ship late of Prince George
30․ Ship Worcester Accᵗ
31․ Do Prince George Do
32․ Do Bombay Castle Do
33․ Do True Briton Do
34․ List of French Prisoners on board the Ships Worcester, Prince George & Bombay Castle

8. Cash accounts.

9. Cash accounts from 2 to 11 August 1759.

10. Cash accounts from 12 to 19 August 1759.

11. A list of stores and their values in the year 1759.

12. A list of moneys received.

13. A duplicate of the Governor and Council's General Letter dated 8 August 1759.

14. Duplicate consultations recorded from 26 March to 13 July 1759.

15. Duplicate consultations recorded from 15 to 24 July 1759.

16. The second receipt for the packet of the ship London.

17. A duplicate cash account from 12 June to 11 July 1759.

18. A duplicate cash account from 12 July to 8 August 1759.

19. A certificate of the survey of the ship Delaware.

20. An account for the ship Delaware.

21. An account for the ship Admiral Watson.

22. An account of the cargo of the ship Worcester.

23. An account of the cargo of the ship Prince George.

24. An account of the cargo of the ship Bombay Castle.

25. An account of the cargo of the ship True Briton.

26. A record of the arrival of ships' boats at Bombay.

27. A surgeon's certificate regarding several invalids and stores sent on the ship Admiral Watson.

28. A duplicate indent of stores required for the service of 1760.

29. A certificate of Turner, late of the ship Prince George.

30. An account for the ship Worcester.

31. An account for the ship Prince George.

32. An account for the ship Bombay Castle.

33. An account for the ship True Briton.

34. A list of French prisoners on board the ships Worcester, Prince George, and Bombay Castle.

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To the Honble Govᵣ

Honble Sir

We wrote last to you, by your ship Worcester, that sailed from hence on the 25ᵗʰ of last Month, with your ships Prince George, Bombay Castle, & True Briton.

On the 26ᵗʰ of Augᵗ arrived your ship the Eastcourt, Capᵗ Arthur Evans from Bombay. The Capᵗ acquaints us that he left it yᵉ 12ᵗʰ of May, & on yᵉ 29ᵗʰ of July, in the Latitude of 36° 30′ South, about the Meridian of Cape Bona Esperance, he passed by four sail of ships, standing to the South East, & by last Captain, but did not speak with them. He brings us no fresh news from Bombay.

Officer, one of your Honᵇˡᵉ Slaves, having been missing ever since the sailing of the last ships, we have reason to think, he made his escape on the Bombay Castle, as we are informed, he had some acquaintance in that ship.

All we have made a Bomb proof Magazine for Powder at Rupert’s, & are now at work upon, & shall in a little time finish another at the Fort, for the same purpose, that all be equally secure.

We are sorry to acquaint your Honor, that the Island, for want of sufficient Rain, has still but a very unfavorable appearance, so if there is not more soon, it is much to be feared, that some Cattle may be lost as there will not otherwise be food for them.

The council reported that their last correspondence was sent via the ship Worcester, which departed on 25 July in company with the ships Prince George, Bombay Castle, and True Briton.

On 26 August, the ship Eastcourt, commanded by Captain Arthur Evans, arrived from Bombay. The Captain reported that he had departed on 12 May and, on 29 July, at a latitude of 36° 30′ South near the meridian of the Cape of Good Hope, he passed four ships standing to the South East. He did not speak with them and brought no additional news from Bombay.

It was noted that Officer, one of the Company's slaves, had been missing since the departure of the last fleet. There was reason to believe he made his escape on the Bombay Castle, as it was understood he had acquaintances on that ship.

A bomb-proof magazine for gunpowder was constructed at Rupert’s, and work was underway on another at the Fort, which was expected to be finished shortly to ensure all stores were equally secure.

The council expressed regret that the island continued to have a very unfavourable appearance due to a lack of sufficient rain. It was feared that if rain did not fall soon, some cattle might be lost for want of food.

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The Passengers on board the Eastcourt are Captᵗ Amos Palmer, Josney, Mrs. Slacher & daughter, & Dr. Grice, Mr. English, Mr. Sheym, Mr. Spleeny, John Punchman.

We are
Honble Sʳs
Your &cᵒ
(signed) Chas. Hutchinson
John Hollows
John Clark
Mattᵗ Purting

St. Helena
11ᵗʰ Septʳ 1759

List of the Honble Company’s Packet, Ship Eastcourt
dated the 11ᵗʰ Septʳ 1759

No 1 Govʳ & Councils General Lr dated 11ᵗʰ Septʳ 1759
2 Triplicate Certificate of Flour of Ship Delaware
3 Duplicate Govʳ & Councils General Lr dated 19ᵗʰ Augᵗ 1759
4 Second Receipt for Packet of Ship Admiral Watson
5 Duplicate Cash Accᵗ from 9ᵗʰ to 11ᵗʰ Augᵗ 1759
6 Do from 12ᵗʰ to 19ᵗʰ Do
7 Duplicate List of the Packet of Ship Worcester
8 List of returns of Cattle for slaughter &c
9 Duplicate Consultations from 30ᵗʰ July to 13ᵗʰ Augᵗ 1759
10 Do Ship Worcester Accᵗ
11 Do Prince George Do
12 Do Bombay Castle Do
13 Do True Briton Do
14 Consults from 21ᵗʰ Augᵗ to 10ᵗʰ Septʳ 1759
15 List of Chinese Servants taken 11ᵗʰ Septʳ Do
16 Effective State of the Garrison
17 First Receipt for the Packet of Ship Worcester
18 Cash Accᵗ from 20ᵗʰ Augᵗ to 11ᵗʰ Septʳ 1759

The passengers on board the Eastcourt were recorded as Captain Amos Palmer, Josney, Mrs Slacher and daughter, Dr Grice, Mr English, Mr Sheym, Mr Spleeny, and John Punchman.

St Helena

11 September 1759

The letter was signed by Charles Hutchinson, John Hollows, John Clark, and Matthew Purting.

---

### List of the Honourable Company’s Packet, Ship Eastcourt

Dated 11 September 1759:

1. The Governor and Council's General Letter dated 11 September 1759.

2. A triplicate certificate of flour for the ship Delaware.

3. A duplicate of the Governor and Council's General Letter dated 19 August 1759.

4. The second receipt for the packet of the ship Admiral Watson.

5. A duplicate cash account from 9 to 11 August 1759.

6. A duplicate cash account from 12 to 19 August 1759.

7. A duplicate list of the packet for the ship Worcester.

8. A list of returns for cattle intended for slaughter and other purposes.

9. Duplicate consultations recorded from 30 July to 13 August 1759.

10. A duplicate account for the ship Worcester.

11. A duplicate account for the ship Prince George.

12. A duplicate account for the ship Bombay Castle.

13. A duplicate account for the ship True Briton.

14. Consultations recorded from 21 August to 10 September 1759.

15. A list of Chinese servants taken on 11 September 1759.

16. A report on the effective state of the garrison.

17. The first receipt for the packet of the ship Worcester.

18. Cash accounts from 20 August to 11 September 1759.

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19 Govᵣ Letter to the Secret Committee
20 Accᵗ of the Cargo of Ship Eastcourt
21 Ship Eastcourt Account
22 Arrival of Ship Eastcourt’s Boat at Bombay

To the Honble Govᵣ

Honble Sir

We wrote to you last by your ship the Eastcourt Capᵗ Evans, that sailed from hence on yᵉ 12ᵗʰ Septᵗ.

On the 21ˢᵗ of last Month arrived your ship Warren Capᵗ Cobb from Madras, which place he left the 20ᵗʰ Augᵗ. He informs us, that your ships Winchelsea, Prince of Wales, Breda, Tilbury, & Britannia, sailed for China; the two former on the 22ᵈ of April, & the latter on yᵉ 19ᵗʰ of June, that the Ylex was also dispatched from thence for China the 7ᵗʰ Augᵗ, & that on yᵉ 14ᵗʰ arrived at Town under the command of Mᵣ Moses Baker, & came Mate of your ship Royal George, which took her the 7ᵗʰ. She was a Packet bound for Manilla, with Monsʳ Lefrancher Depradel, & Le Marquis De Chambori Coloneks, a Captᵗ & two Volunteers. She is called the Favorite, & is said to be worth 40 thousand Rupees. Capᵗ Cobb also informs us, that your ships Valentine & Suffolk arrived at Madras the 14ᵗʰ Augᵗ. It was expected that they would be dispatched for China soon after he sailed. Admiral Pocock has determined your ships Denham, Grafton, Pocock, Duke of Dorset, & Royal George if was cruising with his Fleet off Nagapatam.

19. A letter from the Governor addressed to the Secret Committee.

20. An account of the cargo carried by the ship Eastcourt.

21. An account for the ship Eastcourt.

22. A record of the arrival of the Eastcourt’s boat at Bombay.

---

The council reported that their last correspondence was dispatched via the ship Eastcourt, commanded by Captain Evans, which departed St Helena on 12 September.

On 21 September, the ship Warren, under Captain Cobb, arrived from Madras, having departed that settlement on 20 August. Captain Cobb provided several updates regarding the Company's fleet: the ships Winchelsea and Prince of Wales sailed for China on 22 April, followed by the Breda, Tilbury, and Britannia on 19 June. Additionally, the Ylex was dispatched for China on 7 August.

On 14 August, a vessel named the Favorite arrived at Madras under the command of Mr Moses Baker, who served as a mate on the Royal George. This vessel, a packet bound for Manila, was captured by the Royal George on 7 August. On board were several high-ranking individuals, including Monsieur Lefrancher Depradel and the Marquis de Chambori, both colonels, as well as a captain and two volunteers. The prize was estimated to be worth forty thousand rupees.

Captain Cobb further noted that the Valentine and Suffolk reached Madras on 14 August and were expected to proceed to China shortly thereafter. Admiral Pocock, who was cruising with his fleet off Negapatam, had also made determinations regarding the ships Denham, Grafton, Pocock, Duke of Dorset, and Royal George.

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We are likewise informed, that as soon after the Siege of Madrass, as it was possible to procure Oxen, & compleat a field train, of two twelve, four Demys, & ten six pounders the Troops marched to St Thomas’s Mount, from which place, was Detached Major Brereton, with 200 Europeans some Black Troops, & two field pieces, to follow the Rear of Monsʳ Lally’s Army, that was abandoning the Country Forts near Madrass, called Coramolla & Tirapadure.

In those Forts, were found some Guns & ammunition, which the Enemy had not time to remove. The Army soon after provided with every thing necessary marched to Separamadore, about 20 Miles from Madrass, where Major Brereton, Capᵗ Preston from Ginglaput, & all the Detached parties joined Colᵒ Monʳ Lally, by this time had with his whole Army taken possession of Conjeveram, a fortified Pagoda, about fifty Miles from Madrass, our Troops moved within three Miles of it, & marched Counter Marched, for some Days in hopes of bringing the Enemy to Action, but Monʳ Lally declining to come out of his strong hold, & he being about 200 Europeans stronger, it was not then thought advisable to attack him. A few Days after Major Brereton marched to Wandiywash, a Country Fort about 40 Miles from Pondicherry, & garrisoned by the French, this place he made an attack upon, in hope of drawing the Enemy from Conjeveram, which answered his expectation; For although Monʳ Lally had returned himself to Pondicherry, Major General Lawrence with the French Army marched towards

Information was received that, as soon as oxen could be procured and a field train completed with two twelve, four demy, and ten six-pounders following the siege of Madras, the troops marched to St Thomas's Mount. From there, Major Brereton was detached with 200 Europeans, several black troops, and two field pieces to pursue the rear of Monsieur Lally's army, which was then abandoning the country forts near Madras known as Coramolla and Tirapadure.

In those forts, several guns and ammunition were discovered which the enemy had lacked the time to remove. Shortly thereafter, the army, having been provided with all necessary supplies, marched to Separamadore, approximately 20 miles from Madras. There, Major Brereton, Captain Preston from Ginglaput, and all detached parties joined the main force. By this time, Monsieur Lally and his entire army had taken possession of Conjeveram, a fortified pagoda situated about fifty miles from Madras. The English troops moved to within three miles of the position and spent several days marching and counter-marching in the hope of bringing the enemy to action. However, as Monsieur Lally declined to leave his stronghold and possessed a superior force of about 200 Europeans, it was not then considered advisable to attack him.

A few days later, Major Brereton marched to Wandiwash, a country fort approximately 40 miles from Pondicherry which was garrisoned by the French. He launched an attack upon this place in the hope of drawing the enemy away from Conjeveram. This manoeuvre answered his expectations; for although Monsieur Lally had personally returned to Pondicherry, the French army under Major General Lawrence marched towards the scene of action.

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Haverack, & when he arrived within ten Miles of it, the
English Army moved out to meet him, & drew up on a Plain
in order of Battle in sight of the Enemy, there lay three
Nights & three Days, but Monsʳ Lally when he drew himself
in such a manner, that it appeared he had no intention
to come to blows. It was then determined to make a
forced March to Conjeveram, in which place the Enemy
had only left seven hundred Sepoys, this was done
accordingly, & on the 16ᵗʰ April in the morning, the Gateway
was battered with two twelve pounders, & two six pounders,
& having soon made a breach, it was stormed, & carried,
& many of the Garrison put to the Sword; in the Pagoda
was found one hundred Horses, & some Provisions. Our
Army was cantoned here, & the French returned to Arcot,
thirty Miles from Conjeveram, who were very much
discontented, having no pay, & but bad provisions, which
makes numbers of them Deserts. All their German
Hussars amounting to about eighty, have joined the
English, with their Horses & accoutrements, & at least
four hundred of their other Men. On the 20ᵗʰ of June
Monsʳ Lally joined his Army at Arcot, & moved
towards Conjeveram, where the two Armys cannonaded
each other, for four Days, but both situations being
so strong, that neither chose to attack. Monsʳ Lally
retreated in the Night, to Pondicherry, leaving part of
his force in Wandewash.

The English Army remained cantoned in Conjeveram
until the 1ˢᵗ of August, when part of them with Major
Monson marched, & attacked Coveripauk Fort, which
after two Days he took, granting the French Garrison
a Capitulation, at the same time, Major Calliaud marched

The French army marched towards Wandiwash, and when they arrived within ten miles of it, the English army moved out to meet them. The troops drew up on a plain in order of battle in sight of the enemy and remained there for three nights and three days. However, Monsieur Lally positioned himself in such a manner that it appeared he had no intention to come to blows. It was then determined to make a forced march to Conjeveram, where the enemy had left only seven hundred sepoys. This was executed accordingly, and on the morning of 16 April, the gateway was battered with two twelve-pounders and two six-pounders. Having soon made a breach, the position was stormed and carried, and many of the garrison were put to the sword. In the pagoda, one hundred horses and some provisions were found.

The English army was cantoned there, while the French returned to Arcot, thirty miles from Conjeveram. The French troops were reported to be very much discontented, having no pay and only bad provisions, which led to a great number of desertions. All their German hussars, amounting to about eighty men, joined the English with their horses and accoutrements, as did at least four hundred of their other men. On 20 June, Monsieur Lally joined his army at Arcot and moved towards Conjeveram, where the two armies cannonaded each other for four days. Both situations were so strong, however, that neither side chose to attack. Monsieur Lally retreated in the night to Pondicherry, leaving part of his force in Wandiwash.

The English army remained cantoned in Conjeveram until 1 August, when a portion of the force under Major Monson marched to attack Coveripauk Fort. After two days, he took the fort, granting the French garrison a capitulation. At the same time, Major Calliaud marched-

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marched with two hundred Europeans, & some Sepoys to dislodge the Enemy, that had taken possession of Tanjore Pagoda, which he did with the loss of a very few Europeans returned with his command.

Mavellipattam was stormed, & taken by Major Ford some time in April last.

The passengers on board the Ship Warren, are Colonels Lawrence, Capt. Gaupp & Campbell, Major Mansell, Beeb, Norris, De Caster, Stracey, Chiper, Munn, & Bowers.

On the 9ᵗʰ instant arrived your Ship the Pitt Capt. Wilson, who acquaints us, he sailed from China the 18ᵗʰ of June, & on the 22ᵈ of August, he spoke with a Dutch Ship near the Boombay Islands on the North coast of Java, which informed him, that two French Ships had passed the Streights of Baly, & put into Bambang to refresh, but being told they could not be supplied there, they left it the beginning of August, & had not been since heard of. He also told Capt. Wilson, that there was a report of their being two French Cruizers in the Streights of Sunda.

Capt. Wilson further informs us that he arrived at Batavia the 24ᵗʰ of August, where he found your Ship the Earl of Holdernesse Capt. Brooke, which sailed in company with him for Bencoolen. Mr Herbert your Agent at Batavia informed him, there were two French Ships (one large & the other small) had stopped at Bambang, which were supposed to have refreshed there, & proceeded from thence for China, about the 10ᵗʰ of August, he also acquainted him that the

Major Calliaud marched with two hundred Europeans and several sepoys to dislodge the enemy who had taken possession of Tanjore Pagoda. He succeeded in this objective with the loss of very few Europeans and subsequently returned with his command.

Masulipatam was stormed and taken by Major Forde some time in April last.

The passengers on board the ship Warren were recorded as Colonel Lawrence, Captain Gaupp, Captain Campbell, Major Mansell, Mr Beeb, Mr Norris, Mr De Castro, Mr Stracey, Mr Chiper, Mr Munn, and Mr Bowers.

On 9 October, the ship Pitt, commanded by Captain Wilson, arrived at St Helena. The Captain noted that he had sailed from China on 18 June. On 22 August, he spoke with a Dutch ship near the Bawean Islands off the north coast of Java; the crew informed him that two French ships had passed the Straits of Bali and put into Bambang to refresh. Being told they could not be supplied there, they departed at the beginning of August and had not been heard of since. Captain Wilson was also told there was a report of two French cruisers being in the Straits of Sunda.

Captain Wilson further stated that he arrived at Batavia on 24 August, where he found the ship Earl of Holderness, commanded by Captain Brooke, which sailed in company with him for Bencoolen. Mr Herbert, the Company’s agent at Batavia, informed him that two French ships—one large and the other small—had stopped at Bambang. It was supposed they refreshed there before proceeding towards China around 10 August. He also acquainted him that the-

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Hector Capt Williams had passed the Streights of Balley, the
beginning of July, on her way to China, & that the Duc de
Praslin & Chesterfield Capt Carter left Batavia the
27ᵗʰ of July, & that he had not any account of French
Cruisers in the Streights of Sunda, & acquainted him
at the same time, that ten Dutch Europe Ships had
sailed from Batavia early in July, with four hundred
European Soldiers, & six hundred Bugese on board,
bound for Celebes, where they were to take in five hundred
Europeans more, & to proceed to Bengall, & that the Dutch
at Batavia were in great consternation from this
expedition, & did not scruple to say, if it was attended
with success, there would not be an Englishman left
alive in Bengall. Mr Herbert further informed him
that he heard it was proposed in Council at Batavia
to detain the Dogcote, Chesterfield & Earl of Holdernesse.

Capt Wilson sailed from Fort Marlborough the 22ᵈ of
Septᵣ, where he left the Earl of Holdernesse.

Your Garrison has been very sickly for some time
past, & is so now, but very few men have died.

Thomas Byrne who we intended to send off the Island
in your Ship the Warren, for the circumstances &
reasons mentioned in our Consultations of the 19ᵗʰ & 26
of Novᵣ, we have put on board the Pitt.

By this conveyance we transmit to your Honours
the General Books of Account, balanced to the 11ᵗʰ
of Octᵣ last.

We are sorry to acquaint you, that the expected
Rains here, have the present year greatly failed us.
Some Cattle have already died for want of Herbage
& we are apprehensive, that many more will be so.

Mr Herbert reported that the Hector, commanded by Captain Williams, had passed the Straits of Bali at the beginning of July on her way to China. He also noted that the Duc de Praslin and the Chesterfield, under Captain Carter, departed Batavia on 27 July. Mr Herbert stated he had no accounts of French cruisers in the Straits of Sunda. At the same time, he informed Captain Wilson that ten Dutch Europe ships had sailed from Batavia early in July with four hundred European soldiers and six hundred Bugis on board. They were bound for Celebes to take in a further five hundred Europeans before proceeding to Bengal. The Dutch at Batavia were in great consternation regarding this expedition and suggested that, if it were successful, no Englishman would be left alive in Bengal. Mr Herbert further mentioned a proposal in the Council at Batavia to detain the Dogcote, Chesterfield, and Earl of Holderness.

Captain Wilson sailed from Fort Marlborough on 22 September, where he left the Earl of Holderness.

The garrison has been very sickly for some time and remains so at present, although very few men have died.

Thomas Byrne, whom the council intended to send off the island in the ship Warren for the reasons detailed in the consultations of 19 and 26 November, has instead been placed on board the Pitt.

The General Books of Account, balanced to 11 October last, are transmitted to the Court by this conveyance.

The council expressed regret that the expected rains have failed significantly this year. Some cattle have already died for want of herbage, and there are apprehensions that many more will be lost.

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unless we have an early good summer season

We are
Hontble Sirs
yr most obt
signed
Chaᵣ Hutchinson
John Mottroe
John Clark
Matthᵣ Parling

St Helena
26ᵗʰ Decᵣ 1759

List of the Honble Company’s Packet from St Helena
p Ship Ed dated 26ᵗʰ Decᵣ 1759 vizᵗ

1 Govᵣ & Councils General Letters dated 26ᵗʰ Decᵣ 1759
2 Consultations from 17ᵗʰ Septᵣ to 24ᵗʰ Decᵣ Do
3 First Receipt for the Packet of Ship Eastcourt
4 List of Officers Servants taken 26ᵗʰ Decᵣ 1759
5 Effective State of the Garrison
6 Govᵣ Letter to the secret Committee
7 Cash Accᵗ from 12ᵗʰ Septᵣ to 11ᵗʰ Octᵣ 1759
8 Do from 12ᵗʰ Octᵣ to 11ᵗʰ Novᵣ Do
9 Do from 12ᵗʰ Novᵣ to 11ᵗʰ Decᵣ Do
10 Do from 12ᵗʰ to 26ᵗʰ Decᵣ Do
11 Accᵗ of the Cargo of Ship Ed
12 Ship Pilots Accᵗ
13 Accᵗ of the Cargo of Ship Warren
14 Ship Warrens Accᵗ
15 List of Debts & Revenues dated 11ᵗʰ Octᵣ 1759
16 Do of Families dated 11ᵗʰ Octᵣ Do
17 Do of the Honble Company’s Slaves dated 11ᵗʰ Octᵣ 1759
18 Muster Rolls of the Garrison
19 Books of Accᵗ balanced to 11ᵗʰ Octᵣ 1759
20 Book containing Courts martial

The council noted that the situation would likely remain dire unless an early and favourable summer season occurred.

St Helena

26 December 1759

The letter was signed by Charles Hutchinson, John Skelton, John Clark, and Matthew Purling.

List of the Honourable Company’s Packet from St Helena

Prepared for the ship Pitt, dated 26 December 1759:

1. The Governor and Council's General Letter dated 26 December 1759.
2. Consultations recorded from 17 September to 24 December 1759.
3. The first receipt for the packet of the ship Eastcourt.
4. A list of officers and servants taken on 26 December 1759.
5. A report on the effective state of the garrison.
6. The Governor's letter addressed to the Secret Committee.
7. Cash accounts from 12 September to 11 October 1759.
8. Cash accounts from 12 October to 11 November 1759.
9. Cash accounts from 12 November to 11 December 1759.
10. Cash accounts from 12 to 26 December 1759.
11. An account of the cargo carried by the ship Pitt.
12. The ship pilot's account.
13. An account of the cargo carried by the ship Warren.
14. An account for the ship Warren.
15. A list of debts and revenues dated 11 October 1759.
16. A list of families dated 11 October 1759.
17. A list of the Honourable Company’s slaves dated 11 October 1759.
18. Muster rolls of the garrison.
19. Books of account balanced to 11 October 1759.
20. A book containing the records of courts martial.

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21․ Duplicate Cash Act from 20ᵗʰ July to 11ᵗʰ Septᵣ 1759
22․ Do Govʳ Councils General Letter dated 11ᵗʰ Septᵣ Do
23․ Do Consultations from 21ᵗʰ Augᵗ to 10ᵗʰ Septᵣ Do
24․ Second Receipt for the Packet Ship Worcester
25․ Accᵗ of the Cargo of Ship Eastcourt
26․ Duplicate Ship Eastcourts Accᵗ Do
27․ Arrival of Ships Boats at Bombay

To the Honble Vᵣs

Humble Sirs

Our last address to your Honors, waited on you,
by your Ship P. & H. that sailed from hence on yᵉ 29ᵗʰ Decᵣ
with your Ship Warren

On the 7ᵗʰ instant arrived your Ship Tavistock
Capᵗ Benjᵃᵐ Denton, who informs us, that he sailed from
Swampo the 2ᵈ of Janʸ 1759, in company with your
Ships Prince Henry, Hawk, & Austerlitz, that on the 11ᵗʰ
May off the Island, they saw three French privateers,
which chased them two days, & forced them to bear away
for the Bay of All Saints, on the Coast of Brazil,
where they arrived on the 24ᵗʰ of that Month; that on
the 6ᵗʰ of June, came into the same Harbour your
Ships Bovecaster & Tiger, whose commanders said they
were chased by two sail of Ships in that Latitude; &
that on the 9ᵗʰ anchored in the aforesaid Bay, three
sail of French Ships, which proved to be those that
had been cruizing off this Place, & chased them from
it.

Capᵗ Denton further informs us that on

21. A duplicate cash account from 20 July to 11 September 1759.

22. A duplicate of the Governor and Council's General Letter dated 11 September 1759.

23. Duplicate consultations recorded from 21 August to 10 September 1759.

24. The second receipt for the packet of the ship Worcester.

25. An account of the cargo carried by the ship Eastcourt.

26. A duplicate account for the ship Eastcourt.

27. A record of the arrival of ships' boats at Bombay.

---

The council reported that their last correspondence was sent via the ships Pitt and Harcourt, which departed on 29 December in company with the ship Warren.

On 7 January, the ship Tavistock, commanded by Captain Benjamin Denton, arrived at St Helena. The Captain informed the council that he had sailed from Whampoa on 2 January 1759, in company with the ships Prince Henry, Hawke, and Osterley. On 11 May, whilst off the island, they encountered three French privateers which pursued them for two days. This forced them to bear away for the Bay of All Saints on the coast of Brazil, where they arrived on 24 May.

On 6 June, the ships Dorchester and Tyger entered the same harbour. Their commanders reported that they had also been chased by two vessels in those latitudes. Subsequently, on 9 June, three French ships anchored in the same bay; these proved to be the same vessels that had been cruising off St Helena and had previously pursued the Company's ships.

Captain Denton further noted that on-

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the 6ᵗʰ of July Capᵗ Beck dispatched his long Boat for England, with advice of six sail of your Ships being blocked up in the Bay of All Saints, by the beforementioned French Ships. That on the 27ᵗʰ of Augᵗ sailed the Flota for Lisbon, & on yᵉ 7ᵗʰ of Septᵣ the Ships of the Enemy put to Sea, & that on the 3ᵈ of Octᵣ he sailed from thence with your Ships Prince Henry, Hawk, Boscawen, Osterley, & Trip.

The Capᵗ thereof says, that on the 6ᵗʰ of Octᵣ he discovered a Leak, which occasioned his Ship to make two feet Water an Hour; that it was resolved by a consultation of Commanders in Latitude of 17° 22′ South, that he should proceed immediately to Rio Janeiro, where he arrived on the 16ᵗʰ, & left it the 6ᵗʰ of Novᵣ for England. On the 20ᵗʰ of Decᵣ finding his men very sickly, & being in great want of provision, he thought himself under a necessity to put in here, to get a supply, & to refresh his Ships Company.

We are informed that the long Boat we sent from hence, for the reasons mentioned in consultation of the 9ᵗʰ April 1760, had got to windward of the French Ships, then cruising off this Island, but unhappily taking those Ships for three of ours, bore down to them, & was too near, when he found his Error to get off. They took her on the 17ᵗʰ of April & Mr Bender & his Crew were exchanged at the Bay of All Saints, & went home on your Ships, that sailed from thence.

On 6 July, Captain Beck dispatched his longboat for England to advise that six of the Company's ships were blocked up in the Bay of All Saints by the aforementioned French vessels. The Flota sailed for Lisbon on 27 August, and on 7 September, the enemy ships put to sea. Consequently, on 3 October, Captain Denton sailed from the bay in company with the Prince Henry, Hawke, Boscawen, Osterley, and Tyger.

The Captain reported that on 6 October he discovered a leak, which caused the ship to take on two feet of water every hour. Following a consultation of commanders at a latitude of 17° 22' South, it was resolved that he should proceed immediately to Rio de Janeiro. He arrived there on 16 October and departed for England on 6 November. On 20 December, finding his crew very sickly and being in great want of provisions, he found it necessary to put into St Helena to obtain a supply and to allow his company to refresh.

The council was informed that the longboat dispatched from the island, for the reasons recorded in the consultation of 9 April 1760, had successfully reached the windward of the French ships then cruising nearby. However, the crew unhappily mistook those ships for three belonging to the Company and bore down towards them. By the time the error was discovered, they were too near to escape. The French captured the boat on 17 April; however, Mr Bender and his crew were later exchanged at the Bay of All Saints and returned home on the ships that sailed from that location.

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As the lading Quarter Accounts in their usual course
will not be ready to be laid before us until Monday next
we for these reasons cannot send your Honorable acc
current to a later Date, than a Duplicate of our books
made up to the 26ᵗʰ of Decʳ 1759.

The usual Summer Rains, have hitherto entirely
failed us, & we are still under the same apprehensions on
that account, as we were when we wrote last to your
Honors.

We are
Humble Servᵗˢ

St Helena
27ᵗʰ Janʸ 1760

(signᵈ) Charles Hutchinson
John Hottone
John Clark
Mattʷ Purling

Sub of the Packet of Ship Savarock dated 27ᵗʰ Janʸ 1760

1․ Govʳ & Councils General Lr dated 27ᵗʰ Janʸ 1760
2․ Consultations from 31ˢᵗ Decʳ 1759 to 25ᵗʰ Janʸ Do
3․ First Receipt for the Packet of Ship P & B
4․ List of Officers Servants taken 27ᵗʰ Janʸ 1760
5․ Effective State of the Garrison
6․ Govʳ Letter to the secret Committee
7․ Accᵗ of the Cargo of Ship Savarock
8․ Ship Savarocks Accᵗ
9․ List of Cattle supplied the Ships P & B & Warren
10․ Arrival of Ship Savarock Boat at Banko

As the leading quarter accounts will not be ready in their usual course to be laid before the council until next Monday, it is not possible to send the accounts current to a later date than the duplicate of the books made up to 26 December 1759.

The usual summer rains have hitherto entirely failed, and the council remains under the same apprehensions on that account as previously reported to the Court.

St Helena

27 January 1760

The letter was signed by Charles Hutchinson, John Skelton, John Clark, and Matthew Purling.

---

### List of the Honourable Company’s Packet, Ship Tavistock

Dated 27 January 1760:

1. The Governor and Council's General Letter dated 27 January 1760.

2. Consultations recorded from 31 December 1759 to 25 January 1760.

3. The first receipt for the packet of the ships Pitt and Harcourt.

4. A list of officers' servants taken on 27 January 1760.

5. A report on the effective state of the garrison.

6. The Governor's letter addressed to the Secret Committee.

7. An account of the cargo carried by the ship Tavistock.

8. An account for the ship Tavistock.

9. A list of cattle supplied to the ships Pitt, Harcourt, and Warren.

10. A record of the arrival of the ship Tavistock’s boat at Whampoa.

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11․ Duplicate Govʳ Honᵇˡᵉ Generals Letter dated 26ᵗʰ Decʳ 1759
12․ Doᵒ Consultations from 17ᵗʰ Septʳ to 24ᵗʰ Decʳ 1759
13․ Doᵒ Cash Accᵗ from 12ᵗʰ Septʳ to 11ᵗʰ Octʳ Doᵒ
14․ Doᵒ Doᵒ from 12ᵗʰ Octʳ to 11ᵗʰ Novʳ Doᵒ
15․ Doᵒ Doᵒ from 12ᵗʰ Novʳ to 11ᵗʰ Decʳ Doᵒ
16․ Doᵒ Doᵒ from 12ᵗʰ to the 26ᵗʰ Decʳ Doᵒ
17․ Doᵒ Account of the Cargo of Ship P & B
18․ Doᵒ Ship Pᵗᵗᵒ Account
19․ Doᵒ Accᵗ of the Cargo of Ship Warren
20․ Second Receipt for the Packet Ship Easton
21․ List of Rents dated 11ᵗʰ Octʳ 1759
22․ Doᵒ List of Families dated 11ᵗʰ Octʳ Doᵒ
23․ Doᵒ List of the Honᵇˡᵉ Company’s Slaves dated 11ᵗʰ Octʳ 1759
24․ Muster Rolls of the Garrison dated 11ᵗʰ Janʸ 1760
25․ Duplicate Ship Warren Account
26․ Doᵒ List of the Packet Ship Pᵗᵗᵒ dated 26 Decʳ 1759

To the Honᵇˡᵉ yᵒᵘʳ

Humble Sirs

We wrote to you last, by your Ship
Tavistock, that sailed from hence, the 29ᵗʰ of January.

On the 21ˢᵗ instant, arrived your Honᵒʳ
Ship the Earl of Holdernesse, Capᵗ Brooke from Bencoolen,
who acquaints us, that the Delaware was to be dispatched
in three Weeks after he left that place, and likewise tells
us, that he heard there had been an engagement in Septʳ
last, between our Squadron, & the French, but knows
nothing of the particulars.

11. A duplicate of the Governor and Council's General Letter dated 26 December 1759.

12. Duplicate consultations recorded from 17 September to 24 December 1759.

13. A duplicate cash account from 12 September to 11 October 1759.

14. A duplicate cash account from 12 October to 11 November 1759.

15. A duplicate cash account from 12 November to 11 December 1759.

16. A duplicate cash account from 12 to 26 December 1759.

17. A duplicate account of the cargo carried by the ships Pitt and Harcourt.

18. A duplicate account for the ship Pitt.

19. A duplicate account of the cargo carried by the ship Warren.

20. The second receipt for the packet of the ship Eastcourt.

21. A list of rents dated 11 October 1759.

22. A duplicate list of families dated 11 October 1759.

23. A duplicate list of the Honourable Company’s slaves dated 11 October 1759.

24. Muster rolls of the garrison dated 11 January 1760.

25. A duplicate account for the ship Warren.

26. A duplicate list of the packet for the ship Pitt dated 26 December 1759.

---

The council reported that their last correspondence was sent via the ship Tavistock, which departed St Helena on 29 January.

On 21 February, the ship Earl of Holderness arrived from Bencoolen under the command of Captain Brooke. The Captain informed the council that the Delaware was expected to be dispatched within three weeks of his departure from that port. He further stated that he had received reports of an engagement in September last between the British squadron and the French, though he was not acquainted with the specific details of the action.

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The 23ᵗʰ of this Month, arrived a Dane Ship from China, called the Crown Prince of Denmark, Capᵗ: Jergen
Oesen, Burthen about 700 Tons, carries 24 Guns, & 110
Men, laden with Tea & China Ware, bound to Copenhagen.
The Capᵗ informs Us, that he left China the 2 day of
January last. Eleven of your Honor Ships there. The
Valentine, & Suffolk, were not arrived by this account. He
further acquaints Us, that there were at China this
Season, besides the eleven English Ships, Three Dutch,
three Dane, two Swede, & two French, & a country Ship
from Bengal, that sailed from thence with the Dane.

On the 26ᵗʰ of this Month, another Dane Ship
which sailed with the former from Canton, called the
King of Denmark, Capᵗ: George Alphinston, Burthen
about 800 Tons, carries 36 Guns, & 130 Men, laden
with Tea & China Ware, bound likewise to Copenhagen.
The Capᵗ acquaints Us, that he has not seen any
Ships, since he left China.

We are sorry to acquaint you, that the
Pastures continue still very short, several Cattle have
already died, but as some favourable Rains have
lately fallen, We are in hope, no more Cattle will be
lost, & that the Island will soon be in a better
condition.

This morning arrived your Ship Triton,
Capᵗ: Harris, who delivered Us a Packet from your
Honor; We opened & read your Letter to Us, & beg

On 23 February, a Danish ship named the Crown Prince of Denmark arrived from China. Commanded by Captain Jørgen Oesen, the vessel is of approximately 700 tons burden, carries 24 guns and 110 men, and is laden with tea and chinaware bound for Copenhagen. The Captain reported that he departed China on 2 January, at which time eleven of the Company's ships were there. According to his account, the Valentine and Suffolk had not yet arrived. He further noted that there were several other vessels at China this season: three Dutch, three Danish, two Swedish, and two French ships, as well as a country ship from Bengal that sailed in company with the Danish vessel.

On 26 February, another Danish ship called the King of Denmark arrived, having sailed from Canton with the former vessel. Commanded by Captain George Elphinstone, she is of approximately 800 tons burden, carries 36 guns and 130 men, and is also laden with tea and chinaware for Copenhagen. The Captain stated that he had seen no other ships since leaving China.

The council expressed regret that the pastures remain very short and several cattle have already died. However, as some favourable rains have fallen recently, there is hope that no further livestock will be lost and that the condition of the island will soon improve.

This morning, the ship Triton, commanded by Captain Harris, arrived and delivered a packet from the Court. The council opened and read the letter addressed to them and-

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leave to a due course, the Orders therein shall be punctually complied with.

We are
St Helena

28th March 1760

Hontble Sirs
Your most Obedient & most humble
Servants

(signed) Thos Hutchinson
John Skottowe
John Clark
Matt. Purling

Since writing the foregoing, we have been informed that the French left the Coast immediately after the Action, & that Admiral Pocock was joined by Admiral Cornish; & the Fleet had proceeded for Bombay.

We are
St Helena

31st March 1760

Hontble Sirs
Your most Obedient & most humble
Servants

(signed) Thos Hutchinson
John Skottowe
John Clark
Matt. Purling

The council assured the Court that the orders contained within the packet would be punctually complied with in due course.

St Helena

28 March 1760

The letter was signed by Thomas Hutchinson, John Skelton, John Clark, and Matthew Purling.

-

Since the preceding dispatch was written, information was received that the French fleet departed the coast immediately following the engagement. Furthermore, Admiral Pocock was joined by Admiral Cornish, and the fleet has subsequently proceeded to Bombay.

St Helena

31 March 1760

The letter was signed by Thomas Hutchinson, John Skelton, John Clark, and Matthew Purling.

Would you like me to summarise the key naval movements mentioned throughout these letters?

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To the Honble Coᵣ
Honble Sᵣ

1.․ Our last address to your Honr went by a Dane Ship called the King of Denmark, that sailed from hence the 3ᵈ of March.

2.․ On the 28ᵗʰ of that Month arrived your Ship Triton, Capᵗ Ersᵏ Harris, by whom we recᵈ a packet from your Honr which we opened & read in Consultation of that Day. It gives Us pleasure to find, that our advices down to a late date, as the 11ᵗʰ Septᵇʳ went safe to you, & we hope you will likewise receive our letters by the Sᵣ Savarocks.

3.․ All Orders that may be recᵈ from the Gentlemen of the Secret Committee, or any three of them, shall be duly obeyed, & complied with.

4.․ It gives Us infinite pleasure to hear, that all your Ships happily escaped the Enemy, that was cruising off this Island, to intercept them last season. We hope they will all arrive safe in England.

5.․ The ill success of the beforementioned Cruisers together with the difficulties & distresses they laboured under, when on their Cruises we imagine will deter them from the like enterprize in future. It gives Us great satisfaction to find that you approve of our having fitted out a long Boat, to advertise the Commanders of your Ships, of their being Cruisers to Windward of the Island.

1. The council reported that their last correspondence was sent via a Danish vessel named the King of Denmark, which departed St Helena on 3 March.
2. On 28 March, the ship Triton arrived under the command of Captain Erskine Harris. The packet received from the Court was opened and read in a consultation held that same day. The council expressed their pleasure upon learning that their advices up to 11 September had been received safely, and they remained hopeful that the letters dispatched by the ships Pitt and Harcourt would also reach their destination.
3. Assurances were given that all orders received from the Gentlemen of the Secret Committee, or any three of them, shall be duly obeyed and complied with.
4. The council noted it gave them infinite pleasure to hear that all the Company's ships happily escaped the enemy vessels that were cruising off the island to intercept them during the last season. They expressed their hope for the safe arrival of all such ships in England.
5. It was suggested that the lack of success experienced by the aforementioned cruisers, combined with the difficulties and distresses they endured during their time at sea, might deter them from similar enterprises in the future. The council also noted their satisfaction that the Court approved of the decision to fit out a longboat to warn the commanders of the Company's ships regarding the presence of cruisers to the windward of the island.

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6․ We flatter ourselves, that the like signal success will always attend the Majestys Arms, that it may please God to bless them with His won, so that all schemes the enemy may meditate against any part of His Majestys Dominions, may constantly prove abortive.

7․ Whatever Ships, or Forces, the French have, or intend to send to the East Indies, to annoy your Trade, or Settlements there; We make no doubts, will be rendered ineffectual, by the Superior Force of His Majestys Fleets, & vigilance of His Officers, in conjunction with your own, & you may entirely rely on Us, to do Our utmost Vigorously to oppose, all Attempts they may make against this Place.

8․ We do sincerely wish success to those Ships, you have taken up this Year, to carry on your Trade, & that all your Advices, to the several Settlements may be duly recd: The Lists of the times of the Departures & Arrivals of your Ships, that accompanied your letter came safe to Us.

9․ The supplies of Arms, you have been pleased to send Us, by this Ship, & what you intend by the Royal Dutchess will sufficiently answer Our Demands; The Ship Triton having landed her Stores, in the limited time, We gave the last sailing Orders, on the 10ᵗʰ instant.

10․ We shall be very careful in Describing particularly every circumstance in respect to any part of our Consignment, that may in future appear to be damaged or short delivered, & in stating the Accounts thereof shall attend to the same in the exact manner & your directions hereupon.

6. The council expressed their hope that similar signal successes will continue to attend His Majesty's arms, and that it may please God to bless them so that any schemes the enemy may meditate against any part of His Majesty's dominions will constantly prove abortive.

7. Whatever ships or forces the French have sent, or intend to send, to the East Indies to annoy the Company's trade or settlements, the council trusts they will be rendered ineffectual by the superior force of His Majesty's fleets and the vigilance of his officers acting in conjunction with the Company's own. The Court may rely entirely on the council to do their utmost to vigorously oppose any attempts made against St Helena.

8. Sincere wishes were expressed for the success of the ships commissioned this year to carry on the trade, and that all advices to the several settlements may be duly received. The lists of the departure and arrival times of the ships which accompanied the letter were received safely.

9. The supplies of arms sent by this ship, and those intended to arrive by the Royal Duchess, will sufficiently meet the current demands. As the Triton landed her stores within the limited time, her final sailing orders were issued on the 10th instant.

10. The council will be careful in future to describe particularly every circumstance regarding any part of a consignment that appears damaged or short-delivered. In stating the accounts thereof, they shall follow the exact manner and directions provided by the Court.

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11․ All such Persons, that we shall hereafter Order to England, on any of your Ships, We will pay the respective Commanders £5. Head for, as you have been pleased to Direct, unless any such Persons be put on board, to make up the Ships Complement.

12․ Whatever Damages, or Deficiencies, may appear in examining the Stores consigned to Us by the Ship Triton shall be adjusted in the manner you have Directed.

13․ We shall oblige all such Persons, that We Order or permit to take Passage on board any of your Ships, to sign an Instrument in Writing, before they leave this place, to renounce all Claims, or Demand, on the Owners, on pretence of their having abetted in a Stowage in the Ship, which Instrument We shall transmit to you.

14․ You may depend upon Our continuing to communicate all intelligence in respect to your Affairs, that shall from time to time come to Our knowledge, & shall transmit to you for the future, the Names of the Passengers, that are on board the Ships that sail, & on any others that they may leave here.

15․ As you have been pleased to alter the Disposition of your Tonnage this Year, whereby no Ships will be dispatched directly Home from Fort Marlbro’. We shall write to the several Presidencies, to furnish Us with what Sugar We have occasion for.

16․ When ever we are in want of Boats, we shall take care to supply Ourselves, from your returning Ships.

1. The council confirmed that for all persons ordered to England on the Company's ships, the respective commanders were to be paid £5 per head as directed, except in cases where such persons were placed on board to complete the ship's complement.
2. Any damages or deficiencies discovered during the examination of the stores consigned via the ship Triton were to be adjusted in accordance with the directions provided by the Court.
3. The council resolved that, before departure, all persons ordered or permitted to take passage on any of the Company's ships would be required to sign a written instrument renouncing all claims or demands against the owners on the pretence of having abetted in a stowage in the ship. These instruments were then to be transmitted to the Court.
4. The council assured the Court that they would continue to communicate all intelligence regarding the Company's affairs. They also committed to transmitting the names of passengers on board departing ships, as well as any individuals left behind on the island.
5. As the Court had altered the disposition of tonnage that year, resulting in no ships being dispatched directly home from Fort Marlborough, the council determined that they would write to the several presidencies to request the necessary supplies of sugar.
6. It was noted that whenever there was a requirement for boats, the council would ensure they were supplied from the returning ships.

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17 We shall acquaint the gentlemen supra cargoes with the permissions you are pleased to give for one or two of them, to take their passage on any Neutral Ships that shall happen to touch here, in their way to Europe.

18 Having as much Salt Provision remaining last Seaso, as would have served us, untill the year 1761, we therefore did not indent for any more. The quantity you have been pleased to order to be sent this season, with what we have now in store, will last us for three Years to come, we hope it will keep good, & beg leave to assure you, that no care shall be wanting in us to prevent any of it from spoiling. The prize Brandy you have been pleased to send us, we find is invoiced at 5..7½ per Gallon which is 7½ more, than the fixed price of spirituous liquors to your servants, & only 1½ less, than it is sold at to the Planters, so that upon the whole, reckoning the unavoidable waste thereon, you will scarce save the invoice price, which is too dear for this place.

19 We are pleased your Honᵣ have sent us the Howitzers, as they will be very serviceable in case we should be Attacked. We have likewise received the Timber for a new Draw Bridge, which was much wanted, & shall be immediately applied to that purpose.

20 We are glad our not concerning the Gun-Powder to Fort Marlborough the last year met with your approbation, we really want all we have in store, for the service of this Garrison.

21 The gun flints of French, you have been pleased

17 The council resolved to inform the gentlemen serving as supra cargoes of the permissions granted, allowing one or two of them to take passage on neutral ships that might call at the island while sailing onwards to Europe.

18 The council explained that, because there had been such a large quantity of salt provisions remaining from the previous season that it would have sufficed until the year 1761, no further order had been placed at that time. They stated that the quantity now ordered for the present season, together with what was already held in store, would be sufficient for three years. The council expressed the hope that these provisions would keep in good condition and assured that every possible care would be taken to prevent spoilage. They further reported that the prize brandy sent had been invoiced at 5..7½ per Gallon, which they noted was 7½ more than the fixed price charged for spirituous liquors to the Company’s servants and only 1½ less than the price at which it was sold to the planters. Taking into account unavoidable waste, the council observed that there would be little or no saving against the invoice price and stated that the cost was too high for the circumstances of the island.

19 The council recorded their satisfaction at having received the howitzers, noting that they would be of considerable use should the island be attacked. They also acknowledged receipt of the timber for a new drawbridge, which had been much needed, and stated that it would be put to use for that purpose without delay.

20 The council expressed approval that their decision not to send gunpowder to Fort Marlborough in the previous year had met with approbation, explaining that all the gunpowder held in store was required for the service of the garrison.

21 The council began to refer to the French gun flints that had been sent.

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to send, for the Table, your Honr. may be assured, will be
made use of, as you have directed.

22․ We shall take particular care to sell at public auction all such goods, as shall be decayed or damaged after a proper survey thereof shall be made; the lambs mentioned in the 30 Paragraph of your Letters shall be disposed of in that manner; it is by long lying, mostly eaten, the high price it was invoiced at, prevented its selling.

23․ As the prohibition upon Flour is taken off, we shall discontinue issuing the usual Certificates.

24․ As we find we shall be able to get Money sufficient for the service of the current Year, for Bills upon your Honor, we shall take no Treasure out of the Prison or Royal Dues.

25․ Your Officers both Civil & Military beg leave to return your Honr. thanks for indulging them to have the salt Provision out of your Stores at the same rate the Soldiers have. We shall take particular care none shall be issued to them but what is immediately for their own use, & we are pretty sure the Gain on it will upon the whole be at least adequate to the loss upon the Pork.

26․ We are glad to inform you, that we have lately had some favourable Rains, which gives us reason to hope, that we shall have no further loss of Cattle, and you may depend upon our taking all proper means to supply the Imp. on the best manner we are able.

21 The council recorded that the French gun flints which had been sent for use at the table would be employed in the manner directed.

22․ The council resolved that all goods found to be decayed or damaged, after a proper survey had been carried out, would be sold by public auction. They further noted that the lambs mentioned in the thirtieth paragraph of the earlier letters would be disposed of in the same way, explaining that, through long storage, they had been mostly eaten, and that the high price at which they were invoiced had previously prevented their sale.

23․ The council noted that, as the prohibition on flour had been removed, the customary certificates would no longer be issued.

24․ The council stated that, as they expected to be able to raise sufficient money for the service of the current year by drawing bills upon your Honor, no treasure would be taken from the prison or from the royal dues.

25․ The council conveyed that the civil and military officers wished their thanks to be returned for being allowed to receive salt provisions from the Company’s stores at the same rate as the soldiers. It was resolved that particular care would be taken to ensure that none would be issued to them except for their immediate personal use, and the council expressed confidence that, on the whole, the gain would be at least equal to the loss incurred on the pork.

26․ The council reported with satisfaction that favourable rains had recently fallen, giving reason to hope that there would be no further loss of cattle, and affirmed that all proper means would be taken to supply the island in the best manner possible.

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27․ We shall take particular care to erect new Works if necessary, & put the Island in all respects, in the best posture of Defence, we possibly can, to prevent the Enemy, should they attack it, from making any impression, either upon your Island, or Shipping.

28․ We recᵈ twenty nine, of the thirty Recruits you were pleased to send Us, one of them Wᵐ Michell having died on the Passage.

29․ We are glad to find the Supernumerary of Lt. Price met with your approbation, you may depend upon our keeping up a strict Military discipline, and censuring all those that shall presume in the least to violate any part thereof.

30․ No copies of your Registers &c in future shall be delivered to any one, without our Orders, to prevent any embezzlements of your Effects, no Person shall be intrusted with any parts thereof, without giving proper Receipts, to the end that satisfactions may be duly made for deficiencies. The D. Iron that on board Warren & D. did not stand upon your Books, but was part of Capt. Camage’s cargo & was duly struck up.

31․ Agreeable to your Orders, A. Fitzpatrick returned to this Station, we have paid him the £100. Sterl. Salary, pay & allowances, from the time of his Dismission. And in case of the Death, or Absence of Capt. Clark, he shall be taken into the Council as you have been pleased to direct.

27․ The council resolved that particular care would be taken, where necessary, to construct new defensive works and to place the island in the strongest possible state of defence, so as to prevent any enemy attack from making an effective impression either upon the island itself or upon the shipping.

28․ The council reported that they had received twenty nine of the thirty recruits who had been sent, one of them, Wᵐ Michell, having died during the passage.

29․ The council expressed satisfaction that the supernumerary appointment of Lieutenant Price had met with approval, and affirmed that strict military discipline would be maintained, with censure applied to all who should presume to violate any part of it.

30․ The council resolved that no copies of registers or related records would in future be delivered to any person without their orders, in order to prevent embezzlement of Company effects. They further ordered that no person should be entrusted with any part of such records without giving proper receipts, so that due satisfaction might be made for any deficiencies. It was also stated that the d. iron on board the Warren & D. did not appear in the Company books because it formed part of Captain Camage’s cargo and had been properly entered as such.

31․ In accordance with instructions, the council recorded that A. Fitzpatrick had returned to the station and that he had been paid the £100. Sterl. salary, pay, and allowances due from the time of his dismissal. They further noted that, in the event of the death or absence of Captain Clark, Fitzpatrick was to be admitted into the council, as previously directed.

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32 We find it absolutely necessary, to add a sergeant & Corporals, to each of the four Companies, as we had not enough to do the Duty, without that augmentation.

33 We have agreeably to your Honᵇˡᵉ directions, acquainted the young Senior officers, with your appointing them Captains, at the pay of 10 ⅌ Day, & in full for Diet Money, & Convᵗᵉ Rent, & the Comᵐᵉ will give them Commissions accordingly. They beg leave to return you their most sincere thanks for their promotion.

34 Agreeable to your permission, we in consultation of the 31ˢᵗ of last Month, entertained David Alcock Son of the Reverend Danᵗʰ Alcock Decᵈ who was sometime Chaplain of your Island, allowance in your Service, at the usual Salary & Diet Money, as we think him capable of discharging that Duty. No Soldier in future, shall be employed to assist in carrying on your business here.

35 We are sorry to find the Bills drawn the 16ᵗʰ Sepᵗʳ 1759 payable to Smith & Hunter, were omitted to be inserted in our Letter, we shall take particular care no such mistake shall again happen. Mr Francis Wrangham, who was Secretary, representing to Us in consultation of the 11ˢᵗ of Febʳʸ last that a disorder which he had been for some time afflicted with in his Head, had rendered him incapable of Acting any longer as Secretary, but that he could still copy or do any other part of the business correctly. He begs leave to be excused.

32 The council stated that it was found to be absolutely necessary to add one sergeant and corporals to each of the four companies, as there had not previously been sufficient numbers to carry out the required duties without this increase.

33 In accordance with the Honourable Company’s directions, the council reported that the younger senior officers had been informed of their appointment as captains, at the pay of 10 ⅌ Day, this being in full satisfaction for diet money and convent rent, and that the committee would issue them with commissions accordingly. The officers concerned wished their sincere thanks to be conveyed for their promotion.

34 With permission already granted, the council recorded that, in their consultation of the thirty first of the previous month, they had taken into service David Alcock, son of the Reverend Danᵗʰ Alcock, who had died and who had formerly served as chaplain of the island. He was engaged at the usual salary and diet money, the council considering him capable of performing the duty. It was further resolved that no soldier would in future be employed to assist in conducting the Company’s business on the island.

35 The council expressed regret that the bills drawn on the sixteenth of September 1759, payable to Smith and Hunter, had been omitted from their letter, and assured that particular care would be taken to prevent any such error in future. They further recorded that Mr Francis Wrangham, who served as secretary, had represented in consultation on the eleventh of February last that a disorder affecting his head, from which he had suffered for some time, had rendered him incapable of continuing to act as secretary, although he remained able to copy or perform other parts of the business correctly. He therefore requested to be excused from the office.

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For these reasons agreed to put them upon the establishment
of a Factor, at the usual allowance. And have appointed
Mr Matthew Bozith the Comr. Factor, He having been an assistant, in that office for many
years, we believe will discharge that branch of
business to your Honr.’s satisfaction, & therefore hope
these appointments will meet with your approbation.

36
We shall avoid making any more investments
upon Bills of Exchange in future, as you did not
approve of that of David Bozith.

37
Our reasons for not giving Capt. Mears Bills of
Exchange upon your Honr. for £1000 he deposited in
your Cash here, was, because we at that time did not
want Money. If such an occurrence of this nature
should again happen, we will govern ourselves agreeable
to your Orders, & have transmitted Bills of Exchange to
Capt. Mears by this conveyance for that amount, in
the form you have been pleased to mention.

38
Mary Herbert Relict of the late J. Atkinson Herbert
having borne two children since the Death of her
Husband, & causing them to be clandestinely buried,
soon after they came into the World, gives great
reason from thence, & from other circumstances to
suspect, that those children had been deprived of life,
by some unwarrantable means. We in Consultation of the
10, 11, & 12 of last Month, examined into this affair,
& likewise transmitted you the examination herewith
& beg to receive your Directions thereupon.

35 For these reasons, the council agreed to place those persons upon the establishment of a factor at the usual allowance. They appointed Mr Matthew Bozith as the Company’s factor, noting that he had served for many years as an assistant in that office and was therefore believed to be capable of discharging that branch of business to the Honourable Company’s satisfaction. The council expressed the hope that these appointments would meet with approval.

36 The council resolved that no further investments would be made upon bills of exchange in future, since the previous investment relating to David Bozith had not been approved.

37 The council explained that their reason for not granting Captain Mears bills of exchange upon the Honourable Company for £1000, which he had deposited in the Company’s cash at the island, was that there was no immediate need for money at that time. They stated that, should a similar situation arise again, they would act in accordance with the orders received. They further recorded that bills of exchange for that amount had now been transmitted to Captain Mears by the present conveyance, drawn in the form that had been directed.

38 The council reported that Mary Herbert, widow of the late J. Atkinson Herbert, had borne two children since the death of her husband and had caused them to be buried secretly soon after their births. From this conduct, together with other circumstances, strong grounds had arisen to suspect that the children had been deprived of life by unlawful means. The council noted that, in consultations held on the tenth, eleventh, and twelfth of the previous month, they had examined into this matter and had transmitted the examination for consideration, requesting directions on how to proceed.

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39․ James Aitchin Corporal, petitioned us in formallities of the 31 of last Month, for his discharge, which was granted for the reasons therein set forth, and as he has always behaved well in your Garrisons, & having the misfortune to loose his sight, We beg leave to recommend him to your Honr. favour, & for your satisfaction, We transmit the Surgeons Certificate of his case.

40․ On the 10 Instant, arrived your Ships the Calcutta Captn George Wilson, & Barawacka, Captn Brooke Samoon from Bengall, which place they left the 17 of May. We are informed that sometime in June last, the President & Councill of Bengall, recd information from your Presidents Councill of Fort St George, that a large armament was equipping at Batavia, but their destination not known.
The middle of July, one of the Fleet from Batavia arrived in the River of Hughley, having been separated from the rest of the Squadron by a gale of wind, she had some military on board, & a number of Buggaloes (or Malay Troops). As soon as ever the Nabob heard of the arrival of this Dutch Ship with Troops, he wrote to Mr. Bredon the Director of their Factory, & forbid him landing any of the military or Buggaloes, which the Directors promised, & assured him they should be sent away as soon as the season would permit them to dispatch the Ships. The Nabob at the same time wrote to Colonel Clive, & desired him to dispatch two Phonotats.

39․ The council recorded that James Aitchin, a corporal, had formally petitioned on the thirty first of the previous month for his discharge, which was granted for the reasons set out in his petition. They noted that he had always behaved well in the garrison and that he had suffered the misfortune of losing his sight. On these grounds, the council recommended him to favourable consideration and, for confirmation of the circumstances, transmitted the surgeon’s certificate relating to his condition.

40․ The council reported that, on the tenth of the present month, the Company’s ships the Calcutta, commanded by Captain George Wilson, and the Barawacka, commanded by Captain Brooke Samoon, arrived from Bengal, having departed from that place on the seventeenth of May. They conveyed intelligence received that, sometime in June, the President and council of Bengal had obtained information from the President and council of Fort St George that a large armament was being fitted out at Batavia, although its intended destination was not known. They further related that, in the middle of July, one ship belonging to this fleet arrived in the river of Hughley, having been separated from the rest of the squadron by a gale of wind. This vessel had military personnel on board, together with a number of Buggaloes, or Malay troops. Upon learning of the arrival of this Dutch ship carrying troops, the Nabob wrote to Mr Bredon, the director of their factory, forbidding the landing of any of the military or Buggaloes. The directors gave assurances that this would be observed and that the troops would be sent away as soon as the season allowed the ships to be dispatched. At the same time, the Nabob wrote to Colonel Clive and requested that he dispatch two Phonotats.

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The Govr at Ganjam on opposing the landing of any dutch
Forces in the Country. Things remained very quiet for a
long time, Mr. Brodman taking great pains to make the
Nabob, & Colonel Clive believe the Ships was destined for
Negapatam, & obliged to turn away on sight of weather
for Bengal. But about the latter End of Sept: the
remainder of their Fleet arrived in Ballasore Road, &
some of Our Ships that passed them, observed they were
full of European & Malay Soldiers. This intelligence he
Colonels transmitted to the Durbar, & an answer received
a perwannah from the Nabob, desiring he would by
every means in his power, prevent the landing of any
Dutch Troops in his Country. Two Batteries were
accordingly erected down the River, & a guard of Sepoys
stationed to examine all Boats going up the River, with
Dutch Colours, & if they had Military on board, to stop them.
In consequence of this measure, several Boats were stopt,
& the Military sent back to the Ships.

This conduct occasioned much altercation between
your President & Council of Bengal, & the Directors and
Council of Chinsurah, with several protests from the latter
for stopping their Boats, but as the gomer acted by Orders
from the Nabob, & under his Colours, as his Allies, in virtue
of the Treaty subsisting between them, the Protests from the
Dutch Councils occasioned no alteration in their measures,
which they were determined to persist in. The Nabob
about the middle of Oct: came to Calcutta, upon all which
to Colonel Clive, & his return to Murshidabad stopt afew

The council continued to relate that the governor at Ganjam opposed the landing of any Dutch forces within the country. For a long period matters remained very quiet, Mr Brodman taking great pains to persuade both the Nabob and Colonel Clive that the ships were intended for Negapatam and had only been driven towards Bengal by stress of weather. Towards the latter end of September, however, the remainder of the fleet arrived in Balasore Road, and several of the Company’s ships that passed them observed that they were filled with European and Malay soldiers. This intelligence was transmitted by the colonels to the durbar, from which an answer was received in the form of a perwannah from the Nabob, directing that every means possible should be used to prevent the landing of any Dutch troops within his country. In consequence of this order, two batteries were erected down the river, and a guard of sepoys was stationed to examine all boats proceeding up the river under Dutch colours and, if they had military personnel on board, to stop them. As a result of these measures, several boats were stopped and the soldiers were sent back to the ships. The council recorded that this conduct occasioned much dispute between the President and council of Bengal and the directors and council of Chinsurah, with several protests made by the latter against the stopping of their boats. However, as the gomer acted by order of the Nabob and under his colours, as his allies and by virtue of the treaty then subsisting between them, the protests from the Dutch councils produced no alteration in the measures, which it was resolved to continue. The council further noted that about the middle of October the Nabob came to Calcutta and laid all these matters before Colonel Clive, and that upon his return to Murshidabad he stopped a few matters thereafter.

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Days at Hughley, where he was visited by Messᵣs the Dutch second, & while he stayed there, sent a peremptory order to Mr. Bredem, to despatch their Ships, & Troops away immediately; In answer to which the latter promised under his Oath, in the most solemn manner, that they should return to Batavia as soon as the Season would admit of the Ships leaving the River; with which assurance the Nabob was satisfied, & left Hughley.
The instant he was gone, the Dutch began to make farther attempts for landing their Men, by bringing them up by Stealth, in small parties, in open violation of their late promise. These attempts were discovered by our out Boats, & by that means entirely frustrated every Scheme the Dutch had planned, as we would not suffer a single Soldier, or Malay, to pass up to Chinsurah.
At last they threw off the mask, & sent your President & Councils of Bengal along Protests for stopping their Boats; & a very plainly told them, they were determined to land their Troops at all events, to make reprisals for such stoppages, & violences, as had been committed, to oppose Force with Force, & make use of the powers they had for bringing the English to reason. This Protest was immediately followed with intelligence of their Ships at Sulta having fired at & stopt the vessels, now, all effect belonging to the Company charged with dispatches for Admiral Cornish, also belonging to Capt. Price, & several English sloops, that were going down, or returning from the Europe Ships at Fulpez.

The council continued to report that the Nabob remained for several days at Hughley, where he was visited by the Dutch second. During his stay there, he sent a peremptory order to Mr Bredem requiring that their ships and troops be dispatched away immediately. In response, Mr Bredem gave his assurance under oath, in the most solemn manner, that the ships would return to Batavia as soon as the season permitted them to leave the river. Satisfied with this assurance, the Nabob then departed from Hughley.

The council recorded that, immediately after his departure, the Dutch began making further attempts to land their men secretly, bringing them up in small parties, in clear violation of the promise they had so recently given. These attempts were detected by the Company’s out boats and were thereby completely frustrated, with every scheme planned by the Dutch being defeated, as no soldier or Malay was allowed to proceed up to Chinsurah.

The council further related that the Dutch then openly abandoned pretence and sent formal protests to the President and councils of Bengal for stopping their boats. In these they plainly declared their determination to land their troops at all events, to make reprisals for the stoppages and acts of force that had occurred, to oppose force with force, and to use the powers they possessed to compel the English to comply. This protest was immediately followed by intelligence that their ships at Sulta had fired upon and stopped vessels belonging to the Company, which were carrying dispatches for Admiral Cornish, as well as vessels belonging to Captain Price, together with several English sloops that were either proceeding down the river or returning from the Europe ships at Fulpez.

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Hereupon orders were given to the Commander of the Calcutta Dutch Ships, & Capᵗ Bardwiche to bring their Ships up to the assistance of the Batteries in Cannanore reach.

As the firing at, & seizing of our vessels was deemed by the President & Council of Bengal an open Declaration of War, they wrote the Dutch they should esteem it as such, & determined to act under our own Colours, in resenting that insult. Our Ships were accordingly ordered to give into those of the Dutch, if they met with any opposition. The Commander of the Dutch Fleet threatened to sink our Europe Ships, if they attempted to pass, but finding our Captains determined, they judged it more prudent to move up the River, ahead of our Ships, which they did, till they came to the reach below Cannanore, where they disembarked their Troops, & permitted our Ships to pass unmolested.

On the 23ᵈ Novʳ the President & Council of Bengal recᵈ intelligence of their debarkation; Whereupon Colonel Forde, with the garrison of Fort William, & four field pieces, was directed to post himself near Cannanore, & in conjunction with the Nabob’s Troops, to oppose & prevent the party landed from the Dutch Ships going into their Factories. At the same time orders were sent to Captain Wilson of the Falmouth, to demand from the Dutch Commodore immediate restitution of the Vessels they had seized, & satisfaction for the insult, & in case of refusal to use force, & make reprisals, by attacking the Dutch Ships. Troops orders were put in execution on the 25ᵗʰ Novʳ.

The council further related that, in response to these events, orders were issued to the commander of the Calcutta Dutch ships and to Captain Bardwiche to bring their ships up in support of the batteries at Cannanore Reach.

They recorded that the firing upon and seizure of Company vessels was regarded by the President and council of Bengal as an open declaration of war. Accordingly, they wrote to the Dutch stating that they would consider it as such and that they were resolved to act under their own colours in resenting the insult. The Company’s ships were therefore ordered to engage the Dutch ships if they encountered opposition. The commander of the Dutch fleet threatened to sink the Company’s Europe ships should they attempt to pass, but, finding the Company captains resolute, the Dutch judged it more prudent to move up the river ahead of them. They did so until they reached the stretch below Cannanore, where they disembarked their troops and then allowed the Company’s ships to pass without further hindrance.

The council recorded that, on the twenty third of November, the President and council of Bengal received intelligence of this landing. Colonel Forde was thereupon directed, with the garrison of Fort William and four field pieces, to post himself near Cannanore and, together with the Nabob’s troops, to oppose and prevent the party landed from the Dutch ships from proceeding into their factories. At the same time, orders were sent to Captain Wilson of the Falmouth to demand from the Dutch commodore immediate restitution of the vessels that had been seized and satisfaction for the insult offered, and, in the event of refusal, to use force and make reprisals by attacking the Dutch ships. The council noted that these orders were carried into execution on the twenty fifth of November.

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Where the Calcutta Duke of Dorset, & the Sandwich engaged, & with four Dutch Ships, these having escaped them, by being too far down the River to be attacked, but as the Ships George, & Oxford arrived about this time at Fulta, they obliged those three Ships to stop in consequence of the President & Councils Orders.

Colonel Forde on the 24th in the evening had a skirmish with a party of the Garrison from Chinsurah, posted in Chandernagore to cover the Troops from the Ships & facilitate their getting into Chinsurah. He soon drove them back to their Factory, after having killed & wounded about forty, & possessed himself of five pieces of Cannon, which they had with them. The next morning Colonel Forde received intelligence, that the Dutch were in sight, upon which he marched out, & formed in a plain through which they were to pass. The Action began a little after eight, & lasted about half an hour, when the Dutch gave way & were entirely routed, our Artillery having done great execution. The Enemy had near 600 Europeans, and almost the same number of Buggeese, our Force did not exceed 250 Europeans, & about seven or eight hundred Sepoys. The Dutch had near 200 Europeans killed & wounded, & the major part of the rest fell into our hands, not above 40 having escaped to Chinsurah. This blow having humbled their spirits, & the young Nabob, with his Army being advanced within three Days march of Hugley, they regulated in the most submissive manner, an suspension of hostilities.

The council further reported that, in the ensuing actions, the Calcutta, the Duke of Dorset, and the Sandwich engaged with four Dutch ships. These Dutch vessels escaped engagement because they were too far down the river to be attacked. However, when the ships George and Oxford arrived shortly afterwards at Fulta, those three Dutch ships were compelled to stop in consequence of the orders issued by the President and council.

The council related that, on the evening of the twenty fourth, Colonel Forde had a skirmish with a detachment from the garrison of Chinsurah, which had been posted at Chandernagore to cover the troops landed from the ships and to facilitate their movement into Chinsurah. He quickly drove them back to their factory, after killing and wounding about forty men, and took possession of five pieces of cannon that they had brought with them. The following morning, Colonel Forde received intelligence that the Dutch force was in sight, upon which he marched out and drew up his troops on a plain through which the enemy was expected to pass. The engagement began shortly after eight o’clock and lasted about half an hour, at the end of which the Dutch gave way and were completely routed, the Company’s artillery having caused great destruction. The enemy force consisted of nearly 600 Europeans and almost the same number of Buggeese, while the Company’s force did not exceed 250 Europeans together with about seven or eight hundred sepoys. The Dutch suffered close to 200 Europeans killed and wounded, and most of the remainder were taken prisoner, with not more than about forty escaping to Chinsurah. The council noted that this decisive blow greatly reduced Dutch resistance, and that, with the young Nabob and his army having advanced to within three days’ march of Hughley, the Dutch conducted themselves in a very submissive manner and agreed to a suspension of hostilities.

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What Commissioners might be appointed to adjust all differences, to the mutual satisfaction of both Parties. This was agreed to, & after a conference of two or three Days, between our Deputies & theirs, an accommodation was settled upon the following terms. The Dutch declared the conduct of the Commanders of their Ships in firing at, in seizing, & stopping our Vessels, declared the same to be done without their knowledge or orders, & that they were extremely concerned, & ready to make a public apology for what had happened. They are likewise to make good all the Damage & expences sustained by the Company or Individuals in consequence of their Outrages. Which have been confirmed, ratified by the Directors, & two Commissrs at Chinsurah, under their hands, & the Seal of the Dutch Company. We have in return delivered up all their Ships, Boats, Vessels, & by our mediations with the Nabob, they obtained his pardon, upon agreeing to observe the following conditions vizt That they will never bring Ships of War into the Rivers; That they will not fortify Chinsurah, or any other of their Factories in Bengal; That they will not strengthen their presents to Nabobs, or make any expences; & that they will keep no more than a Garrison of 125 Europeans in all their Factories, & raise no Country Forces.

41․ We are further informed that the Royal Company was to sail for England in a little time after the Calcutta, H. Hardwicke, left Bengal, with Colonel Clive, Colonel Forde, Captn Carnac, & Mr Eyre on board, & that he

The council recorded that it was proposed that commissioners should be appointed to settle all differences to the mutual satisfaction of both parties. This proposal was agreed to, and after conferences lasting two or three days between the Company’s deputies and those of the Dutch, an accommodation was concluded on agreed terms. The Dutch declared that the actions of the commanders of their ships in firing upon, seizing, and stopping Company vessels had been carried out without their knowledge or orders. They further declared their great concern at what had occurred and their readiness to make a public apology. They also undertook to make good all damage and expenses sustained by the Company or by individuals as a consequence of these actions. These agreements were confirmed and ratified by the Dutch directors and by two commissioners at Chinsurah, under their hands and the seal of the Dutch Company. In return, the council recorded that all Dutch ships, boats, and vessels had been restored, and that, through mediation with the Nabob, the Dutch obtained his pardon upon agreeing to observe certain conditions. These conditions were that they would never bring ships of war into the rivers, that they would not fortify Chinsurah or any other of their factories in Bengal, that they would not increase their presents to the Nabobs or incur additional expenses, and that they would maintain no more than a garrison of 125 Europeans across all their factories and would raise no local forces.

41․ The council further reported intelligence that the Royal Company was expected to sail for England a short time after the departure of the Calcutta, commanded by H. Hardwicke, from Bengal, with Colonel Clive, Colonel Forde, Captain Carnac, and Mr Eyre on board, and that he

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Duke of Dorset, Capᵗʰ Horneck, was to be dispatched early in March for England. The Dragon, Capᵗʰ Webber, to sail from Bengal the latter end of Jany. for Madrass, & from thence home; The Dentham, Capᵗʰ Taylor, & the Ajax Capᵗʰ Linsday, with their Salt Petre, & Red Wood, to fill up at Bencoolen with Pepper, the former to leave Bengal the latter end of Jany., & the latter about a Month after, & that the Hormont Capᵗʰ Fletchey, & the Houghton Capᵗʰ Newham, were to leave Bengal in Feby. for Bombay, & from thence to be dispatched for Europe. And that the Stretham Capᵗʰ Mavor, was unfortunately cast going up the River of Bengal in Octr. last, but great part of your Honᵇˡᵉ Cargo was saved.

42․ The Passengers on board the Earl of Hibernia are Mr. Wm. Braham, & Mr. Shroham. On board the Calcutta, Mr. Watts, Capᵗʰ Mason, Capᵗʰ Powell, Mr. Cooke, Mr. Holmes, Mr. Shippey, & Mr. Rubell. Capᵗʰ Mason takes his passage on the board of the Hibernia for England. And on board the Hardwicke, Mr. & Mrs. Mackett, Mr. Beecher, Mr. Sorth, & Mr. Eyres.

43․ As the last Quarter Accounts will not be laid before Us, until the 28ᵗʰ of this Month, We therefore cannot send your Honᵇˡᵉ a Cash Accᵗ to a later date, than the 11ᵗʰ of March 1760.

44․ The Govʳ has paid £100. into your Cash, which we have recᵈ & given him Bills of Exchange drawn on your Honʳ: for that Sum, payable to Mr. Watts &c or Order, 90 Days after sight, dated the 7ᵗʰ instant.

The council continued by reporting that the Duke of Dorset, commanded by Captain Horneck, was to be dispatched early in March for England. The Dragon, commanded by Captain Webber, was to sail from Bengal towards the end of January for Madras and from there proceed home. The Dentham, commanded by Captain Taylor, and the Ajax, commanded by Captain Lindsay, having taken on saltpetre and red wood, were to complete their loading at Bencoolen with pepper, the former departing Bengal towards the end of January and the latter about a month later. The Hormont, commanded by Captain Fletchey, and the Houghton, commanded by Captain Newham, were to leave Bengal in February for Bombay and from there be dispatched for Europe. The council also reported that the Stretham, commanded by Captain Mavor, had unfortunately been wrecked while going up the river of Bengal in October last, but that a great part of the Honourable Company’s cargo had been saved.

41․ The council further recorded information concerning the movements of ships and passengers, noting that the Royal Company was expected to sail for England shortly after the departure of the Calcutta from Bengal, with Colonel Clive, Colonel Forde, Captain Carnac, and Mr Eyre on board.

42․ The council listed the passengers on board the Earl of Hibernia as Mr Wm. Braham and Mr Shroham. On board the Calcutta were Mr Watts, Captain Mason, Captain Powell, Mr Cooke, Mr Holmes, Mr Shippey, and Mr Rubell. Captain Mason was to take his passage for England on board the Hibernia. On board the Hardwicke were Mr and Mrs Mackett, Mr Beecher, Mr Sorth, and Mr Eyres.

43․ The council stated that, as the accounts for the last quarter would not be laid before them until the twenty eighth of the present month, they were therefore unable to send a cash account to a later date than the eleventh of March 1760.

44․ The council recorded that the governor had paid £100. into the Company’s cash, which had been received, and that bills of exchange had been given to him for that sum, drawn on your Honor, payable to Mr Watts &c or order, ninety days after sight, dated the seventh instant.

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45․ Capt. John Clark hath likewise paid £200 into your cash, which we have recᵈ & given him Bills of Exchange drawn on your Honʳ for that sum, payable to Capt. Thoᵇ Stanhope, or Order, 90 Days after sight, dated the 7ᵗʰ instant.

46․ Mr. John Bazett applied to us to pay £600 into your cash, which we have recᵈ & given him Bills of Exchange drawn on your Honʳ for that sum, payable to Capt. Thoᵇ Stanhope, or Order, 90 Days after sight, dated the 7ᵗʰ instant.

47․ We have likewise drawn Bills upon your Honʳ for the sum of £1000, payable to Capt. Chrᵒ Mead, or Order, 90 Days after sight, being the money he deposited in your cash last year, the Bills are drawn conditionally, on his delivering up our Receipt, dated the 7ᵗʰ instant.

48․ Capt. Robᵗ Brooke applied to us to pay £680 into your cash, which we have recᵈ & given him Bills of Exchange drawn on your Honʳ for that sum, payable to Capt. Robᵗ Brooke Senʳ, or Order, 90 Days after sight, dated this day.

49․ We transmit you enclosed a List of Discharged Soldiers, Boatmen, & Purrwants to your Directions have taken a Receipt from Capt. Brooke for £55 paid to him for the Passage of Jno. Duckin Corporal, & likewise have sent an Instrument signed by John White, & Jno. Anchin renouncing any claim or demand whatsoever upon the Owners.

45․ The council recorded that Captain John Clark had also paid £200 into the Company’s cash, which was received, and that bills of exchange had been issued to him for that sum, drawn on your Honor, payable to Captain Thoᵇ Stanhope or order, ninety days after sight, dated the seventh instant.

46․ The council noted that Mr John Bazett applied to pay £600 into the Company’s cash, which was received, and that bills of exchange were given to him for that sum, drawn on your Honor, payable to Captain Thoᵇ Stanhope or order, ninety days after sight, dated the seventh instant.

47․ The council further recorded that bills had been drawn upon your Honor for the sum of £1000, payable to Captain Chrᵒ Mead or order, ninety days after sight, being the money he had deposited in the Company’s cash in the previous year. These bills were drawn conditionally upon his delivering up the Company’s receipt dated the seventh instant.

48․ The council stated that Captain Robᵗ Brooke applied to pay £680 into the Company’s cash, which was received, and that bills of exchange were given to him for that sum, drawn on your Honor, payable to Captain Robᵗ Brooke Senʳ or order, ninety days after sight, dated the same day.

49․ The council reported that they transmitted an enclosed list of discharged soldiers, boatmen, and purrwants. In accordance with directions, they had taken a receipt from Captain Brooke for £55 paid to him for the passage of Jno. Duckin, corporal, and had also sent an instrument signed by John White and Jno. Anchin renouncing any claim or demand whatsoever upon the owners.

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Captn of the said Ship for Wages for their Passage
from hence to England.

We are

St Beling
Hamble Sirm
11ᵗʰ April 1760.

Your most Obedᵗ & most humble Servant
(Signed) Chᵒ Hutchninson
John Shotten
John Clark
Wᵐ Purling

List of the Honble Company’s Packets from St Beling
p Ship Earl of Holderness, dated the 11ᵗʰ April 1760 inclᵈ.

1․ Govʳ & Council General Letr dated 11ᵗʰ April 1760
2․ Duplicate Do dated 27ᵗʰ Janʸ Do
3․ Do Do dated 31ˢᵗ March Do
4․ Consultation from the 28ᵗʰ Janʸ to the 14ᵗʰ April Do
5․ Duplicate Do from the 31ˢᵗ Decʳ 1759 to the 25ᵗʰ Janʸ Do
6․ First Receipts for the Packets of Ship Sovereign
7․ Second Receipts for Do of Ship Earl
8․ List of Officers Servants taken 11ᵗʰ April 1760
9․ Effective state of the Garrison
10․ Govʳ Lr to the Secret Committee
11․ Abstract of the Cargo of Ship Earl of Holderness
12․ Do of Ship Calcutta
13․ Do of Ship Haverford
14․ Duplicate of Ship Sovereign Accᵗ

The council recorded that payment was to be made to the captain of the said ship for wages relating to the passage of those persons from the island to England.

The council then noted the formal conclusion of the letter, written at St Beling on the eleventh of April 1760, and subscribed in due form by Chᵒ Hutchinson, John Shotten, John Clark, and Wᵐ Purling on behalf of the council.

The council further recorded the enclosed list of the Honourable Company’s packets dispatched from St Beling by the ship Earl of Holderness, dated the eleventh of April 1760, the contents of which were as follows.

1․ A general letter from the governor and council dated the eleventh of April 1760.

2․ A duplicate general letter dated the twenty seventh of January of the same year.

3․ A further general letter dated the thirty first of March of the same year.

4․ Consultations covering the period from the twenty eighth of January to the fourteenth of April of the same year.

5․ A duplicate set of consultations covering the period from the thirty first of December 1759 to the twenty fifth of January following.

6․ The first receipts for the packets carried by the ship Sovereign.

7․ The second receipts for the packets carried by the ship Earl.

8․ A list of officers and servants taken on the eleventh of April 1760.

9․ A statement of the effective strength of the garrison.

10․ A letter from the governor addressed to the Secret Committee.

11․ An abstract of the cargo of the ship Earl of Holderness.

12․ An abstract of the cargo of the ship Calcutta.

13․ An abstract of the cargo of the ship Haverford.

14․ A duplicate of the account of the ship Sovereign.

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15․ Ship Earl of Holdemesse Accoᵗ

16․ Time of the arrival of Ship Earl of Holdemesse, Calcutta,
Warwickshire’s Boats at Bombay

17․ Cash Accᵗ from 27ᵗʰ Decʳ 1759, to 11ᵗʰ Jany 1760

18․ Do. from 12ᵗʰ Jany to 11ᵗʰ Feby Do.

19․ Do. from 12ᵗʰ Feby to 11ᵗʰ March Do.

20․ Minutes Rolls of the Gamoon, dated 11ᵗʰ Aprᵗ 1760

21․ Duplicate List of the Packets of Ship Tartarocks

22․ Instruments of Writing from John Whitter & Jnᵒ Anchin
that takes their passage on the Ship Earl of Holdemesse

23․ List of Discharge Soldiers & others that takes their
passage on the Ship Earl of Holdemesse

24․ Examinations upon Mary Herbert’s Affair

25․ Surgeons Certificates of the case of Jas. Anchin Corporal

26․ Capᵗ Brooke’s Receipts for £5 for the Passage of Jas.
Anchin an Invalid Corporal

To the Honble Sʳ
Honble Sirs

I We wrote to you last, under Date of the 11ᵗʰ April,
by your Ship the Earl of Holdemesse

On the 23ᵈ of that Month proceeded on her Voyage
the Ship Triton, & the 29ᵗʰ of the same Month, arrived
the Delaware from Bencoolen

The 9ᵗʰ instant, arrived the Royal George Capᵗ
Beaumont, from Bengal. The Capᵗ informs us that

15․ The council recorded that an account of the ship Earl of Holdemesse was enclosed.

16․ The council noted that information was enclosed concerning the time of arrival of the ship Earl of Holdemesse, the Calcutta, and the Warwickshire’s boats at Bombay.

17․ The council stated that a cash account was enclosed covering the period from the twenty seventh of December 1759 to the eleventh of January 1760.

18․ The council further recorded that a cash account was enclosed covering the period from the twelfth of January to the eleventh of February of the same year.

19․ The council likewise noted a cash account covering the period from the twelfth of February to the eleventh of March of the same year.

20․ The council recorded that the minutes and rolls of the Gamoon, dated the eleventh of April 1760, were enclosed.

21․ The council noted that a duplicate list of the packets carried by the ship Tartarocks was enclosed.

22․ The council recorded that instruments of writing signed by John Whitter and Jnᵒ Anchin were enclosed, relating to their taking passage on the ship Earl of Holdemesse.

23․ The council further noted that a list was enclosed of discharged soldiers and others who were to take their passage on the ship Earl of Holdemesse.

24․ The council recorded that the examinations relating to the affair of Mary Herbert were enclosed.

25․ The council noted that surgeons’ certificates relating to the case of Jas. Anchin, corporal, were enclosed.

26․ The council recorded that Captain Brooke’s receipts for £5, paid for the passage of Jas. Anchin, an invalid corporal, were enclosed.

The council then began a further letter addressed to the Honourable Sirs, stating that they had last written under the date of the eleventh of April by the ship Earl of Holdemesse. They reported that, on the twenty third of that month, the ship Triton proceeded on her voyage, and that on the twenty ninth of the same month the Delaware arrived from Bencoolen. They further recorded that, on the ninth instant, the Royal George, commanded by Captain Beaumont, arrived from Bengal, and that the captain informed the council that…

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the Pilot left him, the 13 Jany last, That on the 14 of the same Month a Sloop from Madras arrived at Bengal in twelve, or therteen Days, with advice, that your Troops about the latter end of Jany last under the command of Colonel Coote, had gained a great Victory over those of the French. And that General Lally, was wounded, and Monsieur Bussy, Colonel Murphy, were both made Prisoners. And that we took twenty two pieces of Cannon, with their Baggage &ca Our loss was trifling, having no other officer killed, but Major Brereton & Capt Bransby likewise acquaints us, that on the 13 of last month in the Latitude of 20. 28 South, Longitude 112. 57 West, from point Palmeras, about four o'clock in the Afternoon, he saw two Sail to windward bearing SSE. & aleve sheeted, he imagined them to be outward bound, by the Course they steered, he immediately made all the sail he could, one of the Ships bore down to him, fired one Gun to Leeward & hoisted English Colours, about seven, a squall came on, & in a quarter of an Hour after, he saw the same Ship, fire two Guns, Whereof two lights, he dropped her very fast, & at nine o'clock lost sight of her. He further acquaints Us. That, he left the Ajax, Duke of Dorset, & Houghton at or Bengal. The Passangers on board the Royal George are Colonel Clive, Mrs Clive, Colonel Yorke, Mrs Yorke, Mrs george Clive, a Portuguese Priest, & Capt Carnac, who remains here, until the Royal Duke arrives, to

The council recorded that the pilot left the Royal George on the thirteenth of January last. They further reported that, on the fourteenth of the same month, a sloop from Madras arrived at Bengal in twelve or thirteen days, bringing intelligence that, towards the latter end of January, the Company’s troops under the command of Colonel Coote had gained a significant victory over the French forces. According to this advice, General Lally was wounded, and Monsieur Bussy and Colonel Murphy were both taken prisoner. It was also reported that twenty two pieces of cannon were captured, together with the enemy’s baggage and related effects. The council noted that the Company’s loss was slight, with no officer killed other than Major Brereton and Captain Bransby.

The council further recorded that Captain Bransby informed them that, on the thirteenth of the previous month, in latitude 20.28 south and longitude 112.57 west from Point Palmeras, at about four o’clock in the afternoon, he observed two sail to windward bearing south south east, with their lee sheets hauled, which led him to suppose they were outward bound from the course they steered. He immediately made all sail possible, whereupon one of the ships bore down upon him, fired one gun to leeward, and hoisted English colours. About seven o’clock a squall came on, and within a quarter of an hour afterwards he saw the same ship fire two guns, after which two lights were shown. He then dropped away from her very fast and, by nine o’clock, had lost sight of her.

The council also recorded that Captain Bransby informed them that he had left the Ajax, the Duke of Dorset, and the Houghton at or near Bengal. They further noted that the passengers on board the Royal George were Colonel Clive, Mrs Clive, Colonel Yorke, Mrs Yorke, Mrs George Clive, a Portuguese priest, and Captain Carnac, who was to remain at the island until the arrival of the Royal Duke.

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return to Bengal, And on board the Delaware, Mr Ombs who came from your Settlement of Fort Marlbrough. A many of your Ships arrived here, without dong So at, We are tender as necefsity, to lend the Commander your, to Water their Ships in which Service they are often endangered & tis generally transfsions so near their sailing that it is imposible, for the Captains to Repair the Damage, whereby We are Put to great, Difficulties. At presents We have only two, & unless you will be pleased to order some of your Commanders to bring their own Boats hither, Those will not be sufficient to Answer all purposes such as on Purchase are generally pretty much worn. I now the frequent Demand the Captains make for them, soon become unserviceable, We for these reasons, think it wuld be more for your Interest, & the service of these Ships, if you wull please to send a Long Boat & ainel, which We could put together here In our Consultation of the 21 of last Month, We agreed the account, of your short deliveries, and Damaged, on board of the Ship Oxford, which we transmets you herewith. And in the same Consultation We ordered a survey to be made of the articles, that came by that Ship, which were for your Honour, & for your further Satisfaction, have sent the Damaged ones, on the Royal George Mr Greenwood applied to Us, to pay two hundred & thirty Pounds, into your Cash which We,

The council reported that Captain Carnac was to return to Bengal, and that on board the Delaware was Mr Ombs, who had come from the Company’s settlement at Fort Marlborough. They further noted that many of the Company’s ships had arrived at the island without bringing boats sufficient for their needs. The council explained that they were obliged, as necessity required, to lend boats to commanders for watering their ships, a service in which the boats were often damaged and frequently so close to the ships’ sailing that it was impossible for the captains to repair them. This situation placed the council under great difficulty. At present only two boats remained serviceable, and unless orders were given for some commanders to bring their own boats to the island, these would be insufficient to answer all necessary purposes, particularly as boats purchased locally were generally much worn. The council observed that the frequent demands made by captains soon rendered the boats unserviceable. For these reasons, they considered it would be more in the Company’s interest, and for the service of the ships, if a long boat and a pinnace were sent out, which could be put together at the island.

The council further recorded that, in their consultation of the twenty first of the previous month, they had agreed the account of short deliveries and damages relating to the ship Oxford, which they transmitted. In the same consultation they ordered a survey to be made of the articles brought by that ship for the Company’s account and, for further satisfaction, sent the damaged items onward on the Royal George.

They finally noted that Mr Greenwood had applied to pay £230 into the Company’s cash, which they received.

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have received, & given him Bills of Exchange drawn on your Honr for that Sum, payable to Mrs Mary Adamson, or Order 90 Days after Sight Dated the 12 instant, We desire you wuld be pleased to Send us, Iron Recruit, by the next Store Ship, believing We shall want that number by the Time of her arrival to compleat your Establishment here Wm Kin a Discharged Soldier, We have sent home on your Ship Royal George For a little Time past, We have had some favourable, Weather but it comes rather too late to be of any great service to the Cattle, that are for Slaughter this Year,

We are

S. Mellenas Honble Sirs 18 May 1760 your most Obedt & most humble servants (signed) Chas Hutchinson John Shultone John Clarke Mr. Barling

The council recorded that the sum applied for had been received, and that bills of exchange were issued for that amount, drawn on your Honor, payable to Mrs Mary Adamson or order, ninety days after sight, dated the twelfth instant. They requested that iron recruits should be sent by the next store ship, believing that this number would be required by the time of her arrival in order to complete the establishment on the island.

The council noted that William Kin, a discharged soldier, had been sent home on board the Royal George. They further reported that, for a short time past, there had been some favourable weather, but that it had come too late to be of any great service to the cattle intended for slaughter during the present year.

The council recorded the place and date as St Helena, the eighteenth of May 1760, and submitted the letter in due form. The signatories were Charles Hutchinson, John Shultone, John Clarke, and William Barling.

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List of the Honble Companys Packet, from S.t Helena #Ship Royale George, dated the 18 May 1760 via.t

Nr 1. Boos Houncils General Letter Dated the 18 May 1760

2 Duplicate Do Dated the 14 Apl.t Do

3 Consultation from 21 Apl.t to 12th May Do

4 Duplicate Do from 25 Jan:y to 14 April. Do

5 Sixth Receipt for the Packet of Ship Orel of 162 Articles

6 second Receipt for Do of ship Savermoet,

7 List of Officers Servants taken 18 May 1760

8 Effective State of the Garrison

9 Govrs Letter to the Honble Commttee

10 Abstracts of the Cargo of Ship Delawart

11 Do of Do of Ship Royal George

12 Ship Royal Georges Account

13 Do Returns Do

14 Duplicate Ship Earl of Holderneste Accot

15 Same of the arrivals of the Delawart Boat at Bantry

16 Cask Acco.t from 12th March to 11th April 1760

17 Do from 12th April to 11 May Do

18 Do from 10 to the 18 May Do

19 Duplicate Cash acco.t from 27 Decr 1759 to 11 Jan:y 1760

20 Do Do from 12 Jan:y to 11 Feby Do

21 Do Do from 12 Feby to 11 March Do

22 Do List of the Packet for Ship Earl of Holderneste

23 List of Hamoon Straorem 7. 11th Apl:t 1760

24 Do of H. Hooveroon for the Honble Companys Ware now the 11 Apl:t 1760

The council recorded a list of the Honourable Company’s packets dispatched from St Helena by the ship Royal George, dated the eighteenth of May 1760, consisting of the following items.

1․ A general letter from the governor and council dated the eighteenth of May 1760.

2․ A duplicate of a general letter dated the fourteenth of April of the same year.

3․ Consultations covering the period from the twenty first of April to the twelfth of May of the same year.

4․ A duplicate set of consultations covering the period from the twenty fifth of January to the fourteenth of April of the same year.

5․ The sixth receipt for the packet carried by the ship Orel, consisting of one hundred and sixty two articles.

6․ The second receipt for the packet carried by the ship Savermoet.

7․ A list of officers and servants taken on the eighteenth of May 1760.

8․ A statement of the effective strength of the garrison.

9․ A letter from the governor addressed to the Honourable Committee.

10․ An abstract of the cargo of the ship Delaware.

11․ An abstract of the cargo of the ship Royal George.

12․ The account of the ship Royal George.

13․ Returns relating to the same ship.

14․ A duplicate of the account of the ship Earl of Holderneste.

15․ An account of the arrival of the Delaware boat at Bantry.

16․ A cash account covering the period from the twelfth of March to the eleventh of April 1760.

17․ A cash account covering the period from the twelfth of April to the eleventh of May of the same year.

18․ A cash account covering the period from the tenth to the eighteenth of May of the same year.

19․ A duplicate cash account covering the period from the twenty seventh of December 1759 to the eleventh of January following.

20․ A duplicate cash account covering the period from the twelfth of January to the eleventh of February of the same year.

21․ A duplicate cash account covering the period from the twelfth of February to the eleventh of March of the same year.

22․ A duplicate list of the packets for the ship Earl of Holderneste.

23․ A list of Hamoon Straorem dated the seventh to the eleventh of April 1760.

24․ A return of H. Hooveroon for the Honourable Company’s ware, dated the eleventh of April 1760.

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N 25 Indents of Stores wanted for the service of the Year 1761

26 Do of Medicina wanted for Do

27 List of Artillery Stores from 12th Oct:r to 11 Apl:t 1760

28 Minutes of the Inagements between Admiral Pocock, & the French Fleet

29 Rec:t of Grds Damaged on board the Ship Salton, Paid for by the Captain

30 List of Wm Lyon a Discharged Soldier

31 Captain Beamishe Receipt for ten Articles

To the Honble &ca

Honble Sirs

1 We adressed you last, by your Ship Royal George that sailed from hence the 17 May

2 On the 21 of the same Month, arrived the Royal Duke, Cap:t Lyon by whom We received a Packet from your Honors which We opened & read your Orders to Us. The 25 arrived a Dutch Ship from the Cape, & the next Day two more, from the same Place, they put in here for Water all three of them sailed for Holland the 29. On the 27 likewise arrived His Majsty Ship Colchester, Capt from Lyon, Honors Snow Mercury, by which opportunity We received Duplicata of your Letters to Us. by the Salton, & Royal Duke

25․ The council recorded that indents were enclosed setting out the stores required for the service of the year 1761.

26․ The council likewise noted that indents were enclosed for the medicines required for the same purpose.

27․ The council recorded that a list was enclosed of artillery stores covering the period from 12 October to 11 April 1760.

28․ The council noted that minutes were enclosed of the engagements between Admiral Pocock and the French fleet.

29․ The council recorded that a receipt was enclosed for goods damaged on board the ship Salton, which had been paid for by the captain.

30․ The council noted that a list was enclosed relating to William Lyon, a discharged soldier.

31․ The council recorded that Captain Beamishe’s receipt for ten articles was enclosed.

The council then began a further letter addressed to the Honourable Sirs.

1․ The council stated that they had last written by the Company’s ship Royal George, which sailed from the island on 17 May.

2․ The council reported that, on 21 May, the Royal Duke, commanded by Captain Lyon, arrived, by whom they received a packet from your Honors, which they opened and read, together with the orders contained therein. They further recorded that, on 25 May, a Dutch ship arrived from the Cape, and that on the following day two more Dutch ships arrived from the same place. All three put in at the island for water and sailed for Holland on 29 May. They also noted that, on 27 May, His Majesty’s ship Colchester arrived from Lyon, together with your Honors’ snow Mercury, by which opportunity they received duplicates of your letters sent by the Salton and the Royal Duke.

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3 We are extreamely glad to hear, that the two China Ships that were at the Bay of all Saints are safe arrived, at Tavistock. We have have & have churved reached You, long before this.

4 The Additional Ships You have been pleased to take up, for the service you mention, We sincerely wish Success to

5 The remainder of Goods Indented for, We received by the Royal Duke, except the 20 Ps of Raga Timber from the want of which, We have been put to great inconvenience, We request it may wuld be pleased to send Us, at least 30 Ps by the next Ship The ten working Days, allowed by Charter party, for unloading the Royal Duke, Expiring the 6 of June we shan't find the Captains her Dispatches, lacking Orders to proceed on his Voyage

6 We observe, that You have come to the like agreement with the Owners of the Norfolk, as You did with those of the Salton, in case the Commander of that Ship, or any other, Should offer to pay Us, for Goods deficient, or Damaged, We shall be Governed by your directions thereupon

7 It gives Us infinite pleasure to hear, that the Squadron under the Command of Sir Edward Hawke has so effectually put an End to the Intended Invasion of His Majestys Dominions, & from the vigorus Opposition, & defeat, which the Enemy have met with, in all parts, During the course of this war,

3․ The council recorded their great satisfaction at learning that the two China ships which had been at the Bay of All Saints had arrived safely at Tavistock. They noted that they had written and forwarded advice to you on this matter long before this time.

4․ The council observed that additional ships had been taken up for the service mentioned and expressed their sincere wish that this undertaking should meet with success.

5․ The council reported that the remainder of the goods for which indents had been made were received by the Royal Duke, with the exception of twenty pieces of raga timber. They stated that the absence of this timber had caused them considerable inconvenience and requested that at least thirty pieces might be sent by the next ship. They further noted that the ten working days allowed by charter party for unloading the Royal Duke expired on 6 June, and that they did not expect the captain to dispatch his ship, as he lacked orders to proceed on his voyage.

6․ The council noted that the same agreement had been made with the owners of the Norfolk as had previously been made with those of the Salton. They stated that, should the commander of that ship or any other offer to pay for goods found to be deficient or damaged, they would govern themselves in accordance with the directions received.

7․ The council expressed the great satisfaction they derived from hearing that the squadron under the command of Sir Edward Hawke had so effectively put an end to the intended invasion of His Majesty’s dominions. They further observed that, from the vigorous opposition and defeats suffered by the enemy in all quarters during the course of the war, this outcome gave strong grounds for encouragement.

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We make no Doubt, but they wuill soon be brought to such terms, as will produce a Peace, conducive to the Honor, & Interest of the British Nation

8 The Differences in the price of the Rice We bought of Captains Edmond, & Crane, were owing to the Settlements they came from, the Rice upon the Malabar Coast, being greatly Dearer, than that upon the Coromandel, We have a constant Demand for that Article, which renders it absolutely necefsary, to have a large quantity always in Store, & was the reason that induced Us to give or high a prices at that Time, whenever We purchase any thing for your Use of the Commander, We endeavor to get it as cheap as pofsible, Captains having having assured Us, that he spared Us at prime Cosr, but Sometimes happens, that the Inhabitants are obliged to give 16 S. hundred for Rice they buy out of the Ships

9 We are pleased your Honor approves of the Bombproof Magazine, We made at Ruperts, that at the Main Fort, is now finished, & every scarp, in all respects you may be assured, that every thing shall be puts into execution, that is necefsary, for the Security, & defence of the Island

10 It surprised Us to hear, that Mrs Adamson had delivered to You, Copies of your General Letters after the Death of her Husband, when he had assured Us, upon his leaving this Place, that he had no Papers, or writings whatever, belonging to your

The council stated that they made no doubt that the enemy would soon be brought to such terms as would produce a peace conducive to the honour and interest of the British nation.

8 The council explained that the differences in the prices of the rice purchased from Captain Edmond and Captain Crane arose from the settlements from which those supplies came, rice from the Malabar Coast being much dearer than that from the Coromandel Coast. They noted that there was a constant demand for rice on the island, which made it absolutely necessary to keep a large quantity always in store, and that this necessity was the reason they had at that time agreed to pay higher prices. They stated that whenever any article was purchased for the Company’s use from a commander, they endeavoured to obtain it as cheaply as possible. They added that captains had assured them that they supplied rice at prime cost, although it sometimes happened that the inhabitants were obliged to pay 16 S. per hundred for rice bought from ships.

9 The council recorded their satisfaction that approval had been given for the bombproof magazine constructed at Rupert’s. They reported that the magazine at the main fort was now finished and that every scarp was completed. They assured that everything necessary for the security and defence of the island would be put into execution.

10 The council expressed their surprise at hearing that Mrs Mary Adamson had delivered to you copies of the Company’s general letters after the death of her husband, when he had assured them, upon leaving the island, that he had no papers or writings whatsoever belonging to the Company.

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Honor, and as we are sensible, of the ill consequences that may ensue from procedures of this kind, We shall observe your directions & prevents the like happening in future

11 & We shall pay Mrs Goodwin fifty Pounds S. Year, as You have been pleased to Order, & She begs leave to return your Honors, her humble Thanks, for this instance of your goodness, & bounty to her &

12 & Wm Hatton ourselves, You wuill be able to get, your Man Slave Chor, that We suppose, deserted upon your Ship Bombay Castles, & return him to Us again

13 As We were utter Strangers to the real Names of the French Prisoners, we were obliged to mention them, by have they gave Us, We are sorry this has occasioned a Delay in the repayment of the Money, We advised them & of it is pofsible for Us to be more explicit in this respect, in a similar circumstance in future, We shall not fail to be so

14 The Rough field Pieces Mention, by the Royal Duke We have received, as likewise the two fire Engines

15 The Sailors Cloaths, We have received by the Salton, & Royal Duke are very sufficient, to replace those Damaged on board the Delawan, We have always been very anxious, in sending Our Indents as early as pofsible, & the reason of their not comming to hand in time the two last Years, were owing to the late departure of your Ships from this Place, We Embraced the earliest opportunity, which offered by the Royal George for

The council acknowledged the directions received and stated that, being fully aware of the harmful consequences that might arise from proceedings of this nature, they would observe those directions and prevent anything similar from happening in future.

11․ The council recorded that they would pay Mrs Goodwin fifty pounds S. per year, as had been ordered. They further noted that she wished her humble thanks to be conveyed for this act of kindness and generosity shown towards her.

12․ The council stated that, with respect to William Hatton, it should be possible to recover the man slave Chor, whom they supposed had deserted on board the ship Bombay Castle, and to return him to the island.

13․ The council explained that, being entirely unacquainted with the true names of the French prisoners, they had been obliged to record them under the names that the prisoners themselves had given. They expressed regret that this had caused a delay in the repayment of the money concerned. They stated that they had given notice of this difficulty and assured that, if it were possible to be more explicit in any similar case in future, they would not fail to do so.

14․ The council recorded that the rough field pieces mentioned as having been sent by the Royal Duke had been received, together with the two fire engines.

15․ The council reported that the sailors’ clothes received by the Salton and the Royal Duke were sufficient to replace those that had been damaged on board the Delaware. They noted that they had always been very careful to send their indents as early as possible, and that the reason these had not arrived in time during the previous two years was due to the late departure of the Company’s ships from the island. They stated that they had taken the earliest opportunity available, which was by the Royal George, to address this matter.

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transmitting Our Indents this Season, & we hope they wuill reach you in Time, to give the necefsary directions thereon

16 We have received the two Recruits, You were pleased to send Us, by the Royal Duke, & have likewise taken seventeen more out of the Number intended for your Settlements of Bengal, they being desirous to stay here. We have transmitted you a List of their Names in Our Packet. & have really advised your Presidents & Council of Bengal, with the permission you have been pleased to give Us, in this respect, & have likewise forwarded the Original List to them. We thought it necefsary to add ten Men, to the Artillery Company, which wuill completes it to seventy, the establishment of the others We therefore request, that your Honor wuill be pleased to send Us, ten Sute of Matrose Cloaths, more than are mentioned in the Indent, by the Royal George & with a few more Articles, We found ourselves in want of since framing that Indent, all which We have added to the foot of the Duplicate, and likewise a troops made to replace that We let Capt.n Lehyll have, as for matter of the 16 of last Month

17 & We have not been able to furnish the Ships this Seasonwith fresh Provisions so fully, as they otherwise or We could wish, notwithstanding We had more Cattle returned for Slaughter than usual. The Beef proves both very small & indifferent, owing to the failure of the two last Seasons, And We are very apprehencive if

The council stated that they were transmitting their indents for the present season and expressed the hope that they would reach you in time for the necessary directions to be given upon them.

16 The council recorded that they had received the two recruits sent by the Royal Duke and had also taken seventeen additional men from among those intended for the settlements of Bengal, those men having expressed a desire to remain on the island. They stated that a list of their names had been transmitted in their packet and that the presidents and council of Bengal had been advised accordingly, with the permission that had been granted in this respect, and that the original list had likewise been forwarded to them. The council explained that they considered it necessary to add ten men to the artillery company, which would complete it to seventy. In consequence of this, and with regard to the establishments of the other companies, they requested that ten suits of matrose clothes more than those mentioned in the indent sent by the Royal George should be provided. They further noted that a few additional articles, found to be required since framing that indent, had been added at the foot of the duplicate. They also requested a troop to replace the one that had been lent to Captain Lehyll, as referred to in the matter of the sixteenth of the previous month.

17 The council reported that they had not been able during the present season to supply the ships with fresh provisions as fully as they or the commanders would have wished, notwithstanding that more cattle had been returned for slaughter than usual. They explained that the beef proved to be both very small and of indifferent quality, owing to the failure of the two previous seasons, and expressed concern that this situation might continue.

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your Honors Ships should be detained here any long time the next Year, We shall be under the same disadvantage

18 Capt Wm Deale, Returned Us in Consultation of the 13 May last, for liberty to leave the Island and proceed to England for the recovery of his Health, which We granted. He accordingly Takes his Pafsage upon the Ship Delawan, And as he hath always behaved well in the discharge of his Duty, as any Officer in this Garrison We agreed to continue him on your Books, & pay him his Salary as Usual. The Surgeons Certificate of his case are entored in Our Consultation of that Day

19 As We find the contracted Times of stay of your Military will expire the next Year, & cannot be certain how many of them, may incline to Relist, We believe We shallwant the thirty Recruit We wrote to your Honor for by the Royal George to completes our establishment, notwithstanding We took nineteen out of the Royal Duke, but if We should Relist more of them whose Times will expire the next Year, than We have reason to expect, We will forward that We do not want to the Settlement the Ship is consigned to.

20 We are informed, that His Majesties Ships America Medway & a party with six of your Honor outward bound Ships the 24 of April last, about 100 Leagues to the Eastward of Madera

21 Since writting to You by the Royalgeorge We have received further intelligence of the Success of your Honors Troops, under the Command of Colonel Coote

The council observed that, if your Honor’s ships should be detained at the island for any considerable length of time in the following year, they would be subject to the same disadvantage.

18 The council recorded that Captain William Deale petitioned them in consultation of 13 May last for permission to leave the island and proceed to England for the recovery of his health, which was granted. He accordingly took his passage on board the Delaware. As he had always behaved well in the discharge of his duty, equal to any officer in the garrison, the council agreed to continue him upon the Company’s books and to pay his salary as usual. They noted that the surgeon’s certificate relating to his case was entered in the consultation of that day.

19 The council stated that, as the contracted terms of service of the military would expire in the following year, and as it could not be known with certainty how many might be inclined to re-enlist, they believed that the thirty recruits previously requested by the Royal George would still be required to complete the establishment, notwithstanding that nineteen had been taken from the Royal Duke. They added that, should more men re-enlist than they had reason to expect, any surplus would be forwarded to the settlement to which the ship was consigned.

20 The council reported intelligence that His Majesty’s ships America and Medway, together with a convoy of six outward-bound Company ships, had parted company on 24 April last, about one hundred leagues to the eastward of Madeira.

21 The council further noted that, since writing by the Royal George, they had received additional intelligence of the success of your Honor’s troops under the command of Colonel Coote.

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the particulars of which we transmit Your honours this. As likewise an Account of the melancholy Affayr that happend at the Negraw. Garrn. Allen acquaints Us, that he left Bombay the 17 march, & that there was no Ship on the River at that Time, but one Dutch, he further informs Us, that Major Caillaud had defeated Shaw Adar near Catnar, Our Army consisted of almost 1500 Men; His about 10000. and that We took his bravemp for Men in the Engagment, Capt. Harrison of the Maratta Ship Yarmouths tells Us that he spoke with the, Normount, belonging the 17. Aprl last, to the Southward of Tillicherry, going to Bombay.

1. Since the 21st of May last, the following Ships have arrived viz.

The Winchelsea on the 7 June Drakes Prince of Wales 12 from China Britannia th. Tilburey 13 Prnce Henry Packet 12. from Madras & Walpole 14 from China Hector Dox 16. from China Chesterfield Rhoda th. Clinton 16 from Bombay

His Majestis Ship Yarmouth 18 from Anjengo, with

Admiral Cornwallis on board

Ongole 23 from China

Duke of Dorset 25 from Bengal

The council stated that they were transmitting particulars of this intelligence, together with an account of the melancholy affair that occurred at the Negraw garrison. They reported that Allen informed them he had left Bombay on 17 March and that, at that time, there was no ship in the river except one Dutch vessel. He further informed them that Major Caillaud had defeated Shaw Adar near Catnar, the Company’s army consisting of almost 1500 men, while the opposing force numbered about 10000. It was reported that the bravest men were taken from the enemy in the engagement. They also recorded that Captain Harrison of the Maratta ship *Yarmouths* informed them that he had spoken with the *Normount* on 17 April last, to the southward of Tillicherry, while she was sailing for Bombay.

22. The council recorded that, since 21 May last, the following ships had arrived, namely the *Winchelsea* on 7 June, Drake’s *Prince of Wales* on the 12th from China, the *Britannia* on the 13th, the *Tilburey* on the 13th, the *Prince Henry* packet on the 12th from Madras, the *Walpole* on the 14th from China, the *Hector* on the 16th from China, the *Chesterfield* Rhoda on the 16th from Bombay, His Majesty’s ship *Yarmouth* on the 18th from Anjengo with Admiral Cornwallis on board, the *Ongole* on the 23rd from China, and the *Duke of Dorset* on the 25th from Bengal.

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23 The pafsengers on board the beforementiond Ships are as follows viz.

Colonel Draper

Capt. Jasper on board of the Winchelsea

Capt. Denharm

Capt Maclean, on board of the Winche

Mrs Lockhart, on board of the Prince ffWales

Mrs Dowma, on board of the Tilburey

Mr. Brown, on board of the Chesterfield

Mr. Straton

Mr. Mackaya on board of the Prince Henry

Packet

Govr. Bourchier

Mr. Mallard

Capt. Wade

Mr. Sragtom

Mr. Bourchier on board of the Clinton

Capt. Immings

Mr. Thomas

Mr. Orvin

Mr. Talbot, on board of the Ongole

Mr. Gray

Mr. Gray

Mr. Calughan on board of the Duke of Dont

Mr. Webber

24. ​Captain Petar Pigou, applyed to Us to pary L100. into your books, which we have received, & given him Bills of Exchange, drawn on your Honrs. for that Sum, payable, to John Watts Esq., or Order, 90 days after

The council reported that they were transmitting the particulars of this intelligence, together with an account of the melancholy affair that occurred at the Negraw garrison. They stated that Allen informed them he had left Bombay on 17 March and that there was no ship in the river at that time except one Dutch vessel. He further reported that Major Caillaud had defeated Shaw Adar near Catnar, the Company’s force consisting of almost 1500 men, while the opposing army numbered about 10000. They noted that the bravest men of the enemy were taken in the engagement. The council also recorded that Captain Harrison of the Maratta ship Yarmouths informed them that he spoke with the Normount on 17 April, to the southward of Tillicherry, while she was bound for Bombay.

23․ The council listed the passengers on board the before-mentioned ships as follows. On board the Winchelsea were Colonel Draper, Captain Jasper, Captain Denharm, and Captain Maclean. On board the Prince of Wales was Mrs Lockhart. On board the Tilburey was Mrs Dowma. On board the Chesterfield was Mr Brown. Mr Straton was also noted among the passengers. On board the Prince Henry packet were Mr Mackaya. On board the Clinton were Governor Bourchier, Mr Mallard, Captain Wade, Mr Sragtom, Mr Bourchier, Captain Immings, Mr Thomas, and Mr Orvin. On board the Ongole were Mr Talbot and Mr Gray. On board the Duke of Dont were Mr Gray, Mr Calughan, and Mr Webber.

24․ The council recorded that Captain Petar Pigou applied to pay £100 into the Company’s books, which was received, and that bills of exchange were issued for that sum, drawn on your Honors, payable to John Watts Esquire or order, ninety days after sight.

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sight, dated the 1st of June.

25. Mr. James Benwick, applied to Us, to pay L5120.

into your Cash, which We have received, & given him

Bills of Exchange, drawn on your Honrs. for that Sum,

payable to John Whitebrooke, or Order, 90 Days aftersight,

dated the 1st of June.

26. Richard Becken Esq., applied to Us, to pay L2280.

into your Cash, which We have received, & given him Bills

of Exchange, drawn on your Honrs. for that Sum, payable

to himself, or order, 90 Days after sight, dated the 23d of

June.

27. Mr. Walter Muswill applied to Us, to pay L300.

into your Cash, which We have received, & given him

Bills of Exchange, drawn on your Honrs. for that Sum,

payable, to Andrew Gardener, or Order, 90 Days after

sight, dated the 23 of June.

28. Mr. William Lee, applied to Us, to pay L40.

into your Cash, which We have received, & given him

Bills of Exchange, drawn on your Honrs. for that Sum,

payable, to Thomas Lee, or Order, 90 Days aftersight,

dated the 3d instant.

29. The Governor hath paid L102.. into your Cash,

which we have received, & given him Bills of Exchange,

drawn on your Honrs. for that Sum, payable, to himself,

or Order, 90 Days after sight, dated the 3d instant.

30. Captain Widam of the Maratta Ship Glorioso

& his Purser, applied to Us for L5180, which Sum We

have advanced them, & taken Bills drawn upon the

24․ The council recorded that the bills of exchange issued to Captain Peter Pigou were dated 1 June.

25․ The council recorded that James Benwick applied to pay £5120 into the Company’s cash, which was received, and that bills of exchange were issued for that sum, drawn on your Honors, payable to John Whitebrooke or order, ninety days after sight, dated 1 June.

26․ The council recorded that Richard Becken, Esquire, applied to pay £2280 into the Company’s cash, which was received, and that bills of exchange were issued for that sum, drawn on your Honors, payable to himself or order, ninety days after sight, dated 23 June.

27․ The council recorded that Walter Muswill applied to pay £300 into the Company’s cash, which was received, and that bills of exchange were issued for that sum, drawn on your Honors, payable to Andrew Gardener or order, ninety days after sight, dated 23 June.

28․ The council recorded that William Lee applied to pay £40 into the Company’s cash, which was received, and that bills of exchange were issued for that sum, drawn on your Honors, payable to Thomas Lee or order, ninety days after sight, dated 3 July.

29․ The council recorded that the governor paid £102 into the Company’s cash, which was received, and that bills of exchange were issued to him for that sum, drawn on your Honors, payable to himself or order, ninety days after sight, dated 3 July.

30․ The council recorded that Captain Widam of the Maratta ship Glorioso, together with his purser, applied for £5180, which sum was advanced to them, and that bills were taken drawn upon the appropriate parties in accordance with this advance.

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Commissioners for Victualling His Majestis Navy, payable

to your Honor, or Order, 30 Days after sight, dated the 4th

instant, the first Bill, Letter of Advice goes herewith.

31. Capt. Jehyll of the Maratta Ship Rippon, &

his Purser, applied to Us for L176..12..11, which Sum We

have advanced them, & taken Bills drawn upon the

Commissioners for Victualling His Majestis Navy,

payable to your Honor, or Order, 30 Days after sight,

dated this Day, the first Bill, Letter of Advice goes

herewith.

32. Capt. Brook Samson, likewise applied to Us

for L130_: for the use of the Ship Harownake, which

We advanced him, & taken Bills drawn upon Robn.

Hallet Esq., for that Sum, payable to your Honor, or

Order, 40 Days after sight, dated this Day, the first

Bill, Letter of Advice goes herewith.

33. We herewith transmit Your Honors, Capt Jehylls

first Bill of Exchange, Letter of Advice, drawn on the

Honorable the principal Officers & Commissioners of His

Majestis Navy, for the Sum of L22 6 for the Slops

Mark We spared him.

St Helena We are

5th July 1760 Honble Sirs

Your most Obedt & most Humble Servants

Signed Cha. Hutchinson,

John Skottone

John Cart

30․ The council recorded that the bills taken in respect of the advance made to Captain Widam of the Maratta ship Glorioso and his purser were drawn upon the Commissioners for Victualling His Majesty’s Navy, payable to your Honor or order, thirty days after sight, dated 4 July. The first bill, together with the letter of advice, was transmitted.

31․ The council recorded that Captain Jehyll of the Maratta ship Rippon, together with his purser, applied for £176..12..11, which sum was advanced. Bills were taken drawn upon the Commissioners for Victualling His Majesty’s Navy, payable to your Honor or order, thirty days after sight, dated 5 July. The first bill and letter of advice were transmitted.

32․ The council recorded that Captain Brook Samson likewise applied for £130 for the use of the ship Harownake, which sum was advanced. Bills were taken drawn upon Robert Hallet, Esquire, for that amount, payable to your Honor or order, forty days after sight, dated 5 July. The first bill and letter of advice were transmitted.

33․ The council recorded that they transmitted Captain Jehyll’s first bill of exchange, together with the letter of advice, drawn on the principal officers and commissioners of His Majesty’s Navy, for the sum of £22 6, being for the slops mark supplied to him.

The council concluded the letter at St Helena on 5 July 1760, subscribing themselves as your most obedient and most humble servants. The signatories were Charles Hutchinson, John Skottone, and John Cart.

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List of the Honorable Companys Packet from St. Helena p His Majestis Ship Yarmouths dated the 5 July 1760 viz.

No. 1. Hov: 46 Councils General Letter, dated 5 July 1760

2. Duplicates Do. & Do dated 12 May Do.

3. Consultations from 19 May to 5 July Do.

4. Duplicate Do from 4 Aprill to 19 May Do

5. First Receipt for the Packet p Ship Royal George

6. Second Receipt for Do p Ship Earl of Hildemels

7. List of Officers & Servants taken 5 July 1760

8. Effectus Statis of the Garrison

9. Govrs Letter to the Secret Committee

10. Abstract of the Cargo of Ship Winchelsea

11. Do of Do of Ship Drake

12. Do of Do of Ship Rhoda

13. Do of Do of Ship Tilburey

14. Do of Do of Ship Brittannia

15. Do of Do of Ship Walpole

16. Do of Do of Ship Dox

17. Do of Do of Ship Hector

18. Do of Do of Ship Chesterfield

19. Do of Do of Ship Prince of Wales

20. Do of Do of Ship Ongole

21. Do of Do of Ship Clinton

22. Do of Do of Ship Duke of Dorset

23. Duplicate of Ship Lrbons Account

24. Do of Ship Royal Georges Account

The council recorded a list of the Honourable Company’s packets dispatched from St Helena by His Majesty’s ship Yarmouths, dated 5 July 1760, consisting of the following items.

1․ A general letter from the governor and council, numbered 46, dated 5 July 1760.

2․ Duplicate general letters dated 12 May 1760.

3․ Consultations covering the period from 19 May to 5 July 1760.

4․ Duplicate consultations covering the period from 4 April to 19 May 1760.

5․ The first receipt for the packet sent by the ship Royal George.

6․ The second receipt for the packet sent by the ship Earl of Hildemels.

7․ A list of officers and servants taken on 5 July 1760.

8․ The effective state of the garrison.

9․ A letter from the governor to the Secret Committee.

10․ An abstract of the cargo of the ship Winchelsea.

11․ An abstract of the cargo of the ship Drake.

12․ An abstract of the cargo of the ship Rhoda.

13․ An abstract of the cargo of the ship Tilburey.

14․ An abstract of the cargo of the ship Brittannia.

15․ An abstract of the cargo of the ship Walpole.

16․ An abstract of the cargo of the ship Dox.

17․ An abstract of the cargo of the ship Hector.

18․ An abstract of the cargo of the ship Chesterfield.

19․ An abstract of the cargo of the ship Prince of Wales.

20․ An abstract of the cargo of the ship Ongole.

21․ An abstract of the cargo of the ship Clinton.

22․ An abstract of the cargo of the ship Duke of Dorset.

23․ A duplicate of the account of the ship Lrbons.

24․ A duplicate of the account of the ship Royal George.

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No. 25. Ship Royal Oaken Account

26. Do Calcuttas Do.

27. Do. Hardwicke Do.

28. Do Delawar Do.

29. Do. Winchelsea Do.

30. Do. Drakes Do.

31. Do Rhodas Do.

32. Do. Tilburey: Do.

33. Do. Brittannia Do.

34. Do. Walpole Do.

35. Do. Dox Do.

36. Do Hector Do.

37. Do. Chesterfield Do.

38. Do. Prince of Wales Do.

39. Do. Ongole Do.

40. Do. Clintoni Do.

41. Do. Duke of Dorset Do.

42. Do Prince Henry Packet Do.

43. Time of the arrivals of Ships Boats at Bonhais

44. Duplicate. Cash Acct from 12. March to 11 April 1760

45. Do Do from 12 April to 11 May Do.

46. Do Do from 12 to 18 May Do

47. Cash Acct from 19 May to 11 June Do.

48. Do from 12 Junes to 5 July Do

49. Duplicate List of the Packets p Ship Royal George

50. Do. List of Garrisons Stores rom 11 Aprill 1760

51. Do: Stores rom 2 in the Honble Companys Warehouses 11 Aprl 1760

52. Do Indent of Stores wanted for the Service of the year 1761

53. Do Indent of Medicines wanted for Do

25․ The council recorded that the account of the ship Royal Oaken was enclosed.

26․ The council recorded that the account of the ship Calcutta was enclosed.

27․ The council recorded that the account of the ship Hardwicke was enclosed.

28․ The council recorded that the account of the ship Delaware was enclosed.

29․ The council recorded that the account of the ship Winchelsea was enclosed.

30․ The council recorded that the account of the ship Drake was enclosed.

31․ The council recorded that the account of the ship Rhoda was enclosed.

32․ The council recorded that the account of the ship Tilburey was enclosed.

33․ The council recorded that the account of the ship Brittannia was enclosed.

34․ The council recorded that the account of the ship Walpole was enclosed.

35․ The council recorded that the account of the ship Dox was enclosed.

36․ The council recorded that the account of the ship Hector was enclosed.

37․ The council recorded that the account of the ship Chesterfield was enclosed.

38․ The council recorded that the account of the ship Prince of Wales was enclosed.

39․ The council recorded that the account of the ship Ongole was enclosed.

40․ The council recorded that the account of the ship Clintoni was enclosed.

41․ The council recorded that the account of the ship Duke of Dorset was enclosed.

42․ The council recorded that the account of the Prince Henry packet was enclosed.

43․ The council recorded that a statement of the times of arrival of ships’ boats at Bonhais was enclosed.

44․ The council recorded that a duplicate cash account covering the period from 12 March to 11 April 1760 was enclosed.

45․ The council recorded that a duplicate cash account covering the period from 12 April to 11 May 1760 was enclosed.

46․ The council recorded that a duplicate cash account covering the period from 12 May to 18 May 1760 was enclosed.

47․ The council recorded that a cash account covering the period from 19 May to 11 June 1760 was enclosed.

48․ The council recorded that a cash account covering the period from 12 June to 5 July 1760 was enclosed.

49․ The council recorded that a duplicate list of the packets sent by the ship Royal George was enclosed.

50․ The council recorded that a duplicate list of garrison stores from 11 April 1760 was enclosed.

51․ The council recorded that a duplicate list of stores held in the Honourable Company’s warehouses as at 11 April 1760 was enclosed.

52․ The council recorded that a duplicate indent of stores required for the service of the year 1761 was enclosed.

53․ The council recorded that a duplicate indent of medicines required for the same service was enclosed.

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No. 54. Duplicate of Artillery from 12 Oct 1759 to 11 Aprl 1760

55. Do. Accounts of goods damaged on board of the Ship Rhoda

& ordered to by the Captains

56. List of 17 Soldiers desermed out of His Majestis Royal Duke

57. Mr Chauvs Report

58. Narrative of the Battle fought between Colonel Carts &

General Lally &ca

59. Copy of a Letter from Capt. Walter Allen, concerning the

melancholy Affair of the Negraw.

60. Capt. Redcumis first Bill of Exchange & Letter of Advice

61. Capt. Jehylls first Do & Do

62. Capt. Samsons first Do & Do

63. List of marriage &ca

64. Capt. Jehylls first Bill of Exchange for L22..6 for a

Sloop Wast &

To the Honble &ca

Honble Sirs.

1. Our last Advices to your Honrs went by His

Majestis Ship Yarmouths Admiral Pocock, which Saild

from hence the 6 July, with His Majestis Ships

Colchester, Wieisport, & 17 Sail of your Ships under

his Convoy

2. On the 27 of last Month, arrived the Star

the Honble Patrick Houstland Commander Catt

Lindsey, from Madras, which Place he left the

54․ The council recorded that a duplicate list of artillery was enclosed, covering the period from 12 October 1759 to 11 April 1760.

55․ The council recorded that accounts were enclosed of goods damaged on board the ship Rhoda, which had been ordered to be paid for by the captains.

56․ The council recorded that a list was enclosed of seventeen soldiers who had deserted from His Majesty’s ship Royal Duke.

57․ The council recorded that Mr Chauvs’s report was enclosed.

58․ The council recorded that a narrative was enclosed of the battle fought between Colonel Coote and General Lally, with related matters.

59․ The council recorded that a copy was enclosed of a letter from Captain Walter Allen concerning the melancholy affair at Negraw.

60․ The council recorded that Captain Redcumis’s first bill of exchange, together with the letter of advice, was enclosed.

61․ The council recorded that Captain Jehyll’s first bill of exchange, together with the letter of advice, was enclosed.

62․ The council recorded that Captain Samson’s first bill of exchange, together with the letter of advice, was enclosed.

63․ The council recorded that a list of marriages and related matters was enclosed.

64․ The council recorded that Captain Jehyll’s first bill of exchange for £22..6, relating to a sloop wast, was enclosed.

The council then began a further letter addressed to the Honourable Sirs.

1․ The council stated that their last advices to your Honors had been sent by His Majesty’s ship Yarmouths, under Admiral Pocock, which sailed from the island on 6 July, together with His Majesty’s ships Colchester and Wieisport, and seventeen of the Company’s ships under his convoy.

2․ The council reported that, on 27 of the previous month, the Star, commanded by the Honourable Patrick Houstland, Captain Lindsey, arrived from Madras, which place she had left on the…

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the 17 August; He acquaints Us that they Saild

from Bengal the 17 march, & arrived at Moco moco

the 25 Aprill, when Mr Preston your Resident there

informed them, that a French Ship of 64 Guns, and

2 Frigates, with about 500 Land forses on board, had

taken Natall the 7 Inst. last, without any resistance

Tappanooly the 15 of the same Month, after two days

Siege, And fort Marlborough the 1 Aprill, without

much opposition; And that your Honrs Ship

Denhams that was in Marlborough Road at that

Time, was ordered to be burnt, to prevent her falling

into the Enemys Hands, & her Crew Betabled to

reinforce the Garrison of that place, & that it was

Said that thirty light Check of your Honors Treasure

was sometime before sent to Batavia, & put on board

your Ships Filentine & Suftalk. & by them carryd

Said that thirty light Check of your Honors Treasure

was sometime before sent to Batavia, & put on board

your Ships Filentine & Suftalk. & by them carryd

that the Saild from Moco moco the 27 Aprill for madras, and

for there, He likewise acquaints Us, that They

were chaced two Days of Nabau Ifand by a

large Ship; they arrived at Madras the 30 May

& found lying there, your Ships Broock, & hasselburg

the former Saild for China on the 15 June, the 17

of the same Month, arrived the Godolphin Capt.

Hutchenson from Bombay, with Advice that His

Majestis Ships Panther, & Norffolk, had joind

Admiral Stevens Fleelt off Cudalore, Capt Mastland

also informs Us, that on the 2 July Saild the Duke

a Country Vessel from Madras, to Cruize as was

supposed off the Streight of Sunda, to give intelligence

The council continued to report that the Star sailed from Bengal on 17 March and arrived at Moco Moco on 25 April. There Mr Preston, the Company’s resident at that place, informed them that a French ship of sixty four guns and two frigates, with about five hundred land forces on board, had taken Natal on 7 April without any resistance, Tappanooly on 15 April after a siege of two days, and Fort Marlborough on 1 April with little opposition. It was further reported that the Company’s ship Denham, which lay in Marlborough Road at that time, had been ordered to be burnt in order to prevent her falling into enemy hands, and that her crew had been landed to reinforce the garrison there. It was also said that thirty light chests of the Company’s treasure had previously been sent to Batavia and put on board the Company’s ships Filentine and Suffolk and carried away by them.

They further reported that the Star sailed from Moco Moco on 27 April for Madras. Captain Mastland likewise informed the council that, during the voyage, they were chased for two days off Nabau Island by a large ship. They arrived at Madras on 30 May and found there the Company’s ships Brook and Hasselburg, the former having sailed for China on 15 June. On 17 June the Godolphin, commanded by Captain Hutchenson, arrived from Bombay with intelligence that His Majesty’s ships Panther and Norfolk had joined Admiral Stevens’s fleet off Cuddalore. Captain Mastland also informed the council that, on 2 July, the Duke, a country vessel, sailed from Madras, supposed to be cruising off the Strait of Sunda in order to gather intelligence.

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to the Ships boind to Bencoolen, of that place

being in the Hands of the French. And that on the

13 of July, the Godolphin left Madras for Bengal

with Mr Vansittart on board, The 25 of the same

Months arrived at Port St George, the Anson, on the

9 August, the Princefs Augusta, Warwick, Lord

Mansfield, Carnarvon, & on the 12 of that Month

the Falmouth.

3. Notwithstanding the Strickt watch kept upon

all Ships sailing from this Place, to prevent the

Desertion of Soldiers. We lache, yet several Persons

got on board the Fleet, as you well please to observe

in our Consultation of the 7 July, last, all of them

were sent on shore again, except a Solder, & two

of your Honors Men Slaves, (Jewen & Poe) & a

Man Slave belonging to Porbeck the Cooper, who we

were sent on shore again, except a Solder, & two

of your Honors Men Slaves, (Jewen & Poe) & a

Man Slave belonging to Porbeck the Cooper, who got

quite away. We are in great hopes the Blacks

will be delivered to you, upon the arrival of those

Ships, & that you will be pleased to return them

by the first opportunity; it will undoubtedly be a

means to they find their elopement unsuccessful

of deterring them, & others from such Attempts in

future, Grower is a Stonelayer, & a very useful Man,

but without an artful, & most Notorious Villain, &

was the Person who broke open a Chest in the Castle

& stole from thence, to the amount of nearly £5000

the particulars of which is inserted in ourConsultation

of the 27 March last. This, with many other

The council further reported that this cruise was intended to give intelligence to ships bound for Bencoolen, that place being then in the hands of the French. They added that, on 13 July, the Godolphin left Madras for Bengal with Mr Vansittart on board. On 25 July the Anson arrived at Port St George, on 9 August the Princess Augusta, the Warwick, the Lord Mansfield, and the Carnarvon arrived, and on 12 August the Falmouth arrived.

3 The council stated that, notwithstanding the strict watch kept over all ships sailing from the island in order to prevent the desertion of soldiers, several persons nevertheless managed to get on board the fleet, as had been observed in their consultation of 7 July. All of them were sent back on shore except one soldier, two of your Honor’s male slaves, Jewen and Poe, and one male slave belonging to Porbeck the cooper, who escaped entirely. The council expressed their strong hope that the slaves belonging to you would be delivered upon the arrival of those ships and that you would be pleased to return them by the first opportunity, as this would undoubtedly demonstrate that escape was unsuccessful and would deter them and others from making such attempts in future. They noted that Grower was a stone layer and a very useful man, but at the same time artful and notoriously dishonest, and that he was the person who broke open a chest in the castle and stole from it nearly £5000, the particulars of which were set out in their consultation of 27 March last.

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instances of Burglary, & the longs committed by the

Blacks upon this Island, so frequently noticed in our

Consultation, makes it indispensably necessary to

be prevent again to your Honrs. that unless we have

apower to Execute, & maker an example of some of

them, it will be impossible, to stop the mischief the

Mischiefs perpetrated by them, in all parts of the Island

which daily increase, & from experience we are

convinced, that severe Corporall punishment are quite

ineffectual, to remedy these Evils. Your former Government

have been invested with this power, as will appear

from the following taken from the Old Laws, & Institutions

of the Island, which we beg leave to Cite.

The punishment of Blacks for

Burglary & Felony according to the Laws & Institutions

of the Island is as follows viz.

"For the first offence to be whipp'd

at three different Times, & to be branded with the

Letter R on the Forehead, For the second, Offence, to

wear a Chain, & log all year, & for the third Offence to

suffer Death, at the Discretion of the Governor &Council

The Slave to be Valued, & the Master satisfied

according to Estimation, by an assessment on the whole

Inhabitant.

By the above its evident, that a power

was given for Executing such Criminals, & by Vertue

thereof, it appears from the Records here, that many

have formerly been put to Death, giving them

The council stated that the repeated instances of burglary and theft committed by blacks on the island, which had been so frequently recorded in their consultations, made it absolutely necessary to represent again to your Honors that, unless they were given the power to carry sentences into execution and to make an example of some offenders, it would be impossible to stop the mischiefs being committed in all parts of the island. They reported that these offences were increasing daily and that experience had convinced them that severe corporal punishments alone were entirely ineffective in remedying these evils. They therefore noted that former governments on the island had been invested with such authority, as appeared from provisions taken from the old laws and institutions of the island, which they asked leave to cite.

The council then explained that, according to the laws and institutions of the island, the punishment of blacks for burglary and felony was set out in the following manner.

For a first offence, the offender was to be whipped on three different occasions and branded with the letter R on the forehead. For a second offence, the offender was to wear a chain and log for the space of one year. For a third offence, the offender was to suffer death, at the discretion of the governor and council. In such a case the slave was to be valued, and the master compensated according to that valuation by an assessment upon the whole body of inhabitants.

From this, the council stated, it was evident that authority had formerly been granted to carry out capital punishment in such cases. By virtue of this authority, the records showed that many offenders had previously been put to death, thereby giving them…

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three chances for their Lives, amidst the excessive

Enormitys which are now so often committed by these

Delinguent, would in our opinion be shewing them

at this time too much lenity, they should at least

we think suffer upon being Convicted the second time

before Us. The Inhabitants are all great sufferers

from these Depredations, & are very sensible, that it

is absolutely necessary some method, to secure their

properties should be taken, & as none Occurs to Us

to be so effectuall, as what we have here proposed.

We hope for these reasons your Honors will be pleased

to take it into consideration; By bringing Atrocious

Offenders to Condign punishment, the Honest will

be protected, & the Industrius encouraged, which are

the only motives for our makeing this representation.

4. We are sorry to acquaint you, that several

of your Honors Cattle, have died this Year, & still

continues to do so, not from the want of food, having

had plenty of Grafs in the Long Wood for some Months

past, but from a wooden we apprehend they have

contracted by Eating alrafs growing lately there

called Canary, some of which, for your further

satisfaction, we have sent on the Packet; As the long

Wood is the only place upon the Island where Cattle

have been afflicted, it looks very suspicious, that

this Grafs have been the cause, & we are the more

confirmed therein, from an experiment we made

in a Healthy young Beast, which was put in a

The council continued by stating that allowing offenders three chances for their lives, in the face of the extreme enormities now so frequently committed by these delinquents, would, in their opinion, at this time amount to excessive lenity. They considered that such offenders ought at least to suffer punishment upon being convicted a second time before the council. They observed that the inhabitants were great sufferers from these depredations and were fully sensible that it was absolutely necessary that some method should be adopted to secure their property. As no method appeared to them to be so effectual as that which they had proposed, they expressed the hope that, for these reasons, your Honors would be pleased to take the matter into consideration. They stated that by bringing atrocious offenders to condign punishment the honest would be protected and the industrious encouraged, which they declared to be the only motives for making this representation.

4․ The council reported with regret that several of your Honor’s cattle had died during the present year and that losses continued. They stated that this was not from want of food, as there had been plenty of grass in Long Wood for some months past, but from a disorder which they apprehended the cattle had contracted by eating a grass lately growing there called Canary, some of which they had sent in the packet for further satisfaction. As Long Wood was the only place on the island where cattle had been affected, this appeared to them very suspicious, and they were the more confirmed in this opinion from an experiment they had made upon a healthy young beast, which was put in a situation where it was fed accordingly.

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place where it could get no other food, but what

was green of, it fed Entirely upon that, Grafs about

eight Days after, it was taken with a trembling

thot throghly its Limbs, & the Bowels contracted

in a surprizing manner, & recovered soon, upon

changing the food, & bleeding it plentifully, some

of them have a swelling in their Branch, others upon

opening, the Intestines are found quite decayed, all

of them after they are seizen with this Disorder,

have a contraction in the Bowell, & appear to be

quite mad, if these bad effects should not be

produced from this Grafs, we are very apprehensive

that some fatal distemper is coming among them,

a circumstance melancholy, & allarming. All methods

we could think of, for relieving them, have been tryd,

but as yet proved ineffectuall, immediately after

making the experiment we employed several Nidres

to ongrub the Grafs out of the Long Wood, & we

are in hopes, as it is an Annual, by proceeding in

this manner for a Year or two, before the Seed comes

to perfection, entirely to exterpate it.

5. Most of the Flour we have received for

these two years past, have proved uncommonly

Sour & bad, owing as the Bakers inform us, to its

being grown Flour, when first put up, some of the

Bread made with it, is so very indifferent, that it is

hardly Eatable. We thought proper to mention this

to your Honors, to prevent our having cause of

4․ The council continued to explain that the beast was placed where it could obtain no other food than what grew there and fed entirely upon that grass. About eight days later it was seized with trembling throughout its limbs, and its bowels contracted in a surprising manner. It recovered soon after the food was changed and it was bled plentifully. They noted that some cattle had swellings in their branches, while others, upon being opened, were found to have intestines that were entirely decayed. They observed that all cattle, once seized with this disorder, showed a contraction in the bowels and appeared to be quite mad. They stated that, if these ill effects were not caused by this grass, they were very apprehensive that some fatal distemper was coming among the cattle, a circumstance both melancholy and alarming. They reported that all methods they could think of for relieving the cattle had been tried but had so far proved ineffective. Immediately after making the experiment, they employed several labourers to grub the grass out of Long Wood and expressed hope that, as it was an annual plant, by proceeding in this manner for one or two years before the seed came to perfection, it might be entirely extirpated.

5․ The council reported that most of the flour received during the previous two years had proved uncommonly sour and bad, owing, as the bakers informed them, to its having been grown flour when first put up. They stated that some of the bread made from it was so very poor as to be hardly eatable. They considered it proper to mention this to your Honors, in order to prevent their having cause of complaint on this account in future.

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complaint of this Article in future.

6. The Gun Carriages we likewise received this

Season are so bad from their being made with green

Elm Planks that by the Times they reach this place,

most of them are doted, & decayed, & quite unserviceable

We for these reasons request, that you will be pleased

to Order them to be made of good seasoned Oak instead

of Elm, for the heat of the Sun is so intense here

that it obinds them all to pieces, when made of green

wood.

7. The Governor hath paid L314 into your Cash,

which Sum we have received, & given him Bills of

Exchange, drawn on your Honrs for that amount,

payable to himself, or Order, 90 Days after sight,

dated the 8 instant.

8. Capt Clark applied to Us, to pay one thousand

two hundred & fifty Pounds into your Cash, which we

have received, & given him Bills of Exchange drawn

on your Honrs for that Sum, payable to Capt.

Charles Fonllis, or Order, 90 Days after sight, dated

the 8 instant.

9. Capt Kirkpatrick, likewise applied to Us, to pay

one hundred & seventy Pounds into your Cash, which we

have received, & given him Bills of Exchange, drawn

on your Honrs for that Sum, payable to Captain James

Pallister, or Order, 90 Days after sight, dated the 8 instant.

10. Wm Taylor a Marine, belonging to His Majestis

Ship Rippon (K: Criffin, & John Pink, two Boys, who

The council added that this notice was given in order to prevent any future complaint concerning this article.

6․ The council reported that the gun carriages received during the present season were likewise in very poor condition, having been made from green elm planks. By the time they reached the island, most were found to be rotted, decayed, and entirely unserviceable. For these reasons, the council requested that future gun carriages should be ordered to be made of good seasoned oak instead of elm, as the intense heat of the sun on the island caused carriages made of green wood to split and fall apart.

7․ The council recorded that the governor had paid £314 into the Company’s cash, which was received, and that bills of exchange were issued to him for that sum, drawn on your Honors, payable to himself or order, ninety days after sight, dated the 8 instant.

8․ The council recorded that Captain Clark applied to pay £1250 into the Company’s cash, which was received, and that bills of exchange were issued for that sum, drawn on your Honors, payable to Captain Charles Fonllis or order, ninety days after sight, dated the 8 instant.

9․ The council recorded that Captain Kirkpatrick likewise applied to pay £170 into the Company’s cash, which was received, and that bills of exchange were issued for that sum, drawn on your Honors, payable to Captain James Pallister or order, ninety days after sight, dated the 8 instant.

10․ The council began to record a matter concerning William Taylor, a marine belonging to His Majesty’s ship Rippon, together with K. Criffin and John Pink, two boys, but the entry continues beyond the present text.

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were Captains Servant on board the Yarmouth, were all found here, after the Convoy Saild. We thought it advisable to send them to England by this opportunity, & for that purpose, have given Capt Maitland an Order, to receive them on board the Ajax, & have paid him L5 each for their Pakage, & allowed them for their Support during their Stay here as follows viz.

K: Griffins, & John Pink, the two Boys at 6 Day each from the 6 July to the 13 L8..3 Oct. both Days included being 16.3 Days

Wm Taylor Married from the same time at 36 P Week 7.19..7

L12..2..7

11. We have likewise given Capt. Maitland a permission, to receive on board the Ship Ajax Ja Archets who was left behind from the Bristol, As he has been sick the whole time of his Stay here we were under a necessity to allow him 15 Days for his subsistence at the Hospital, which amounts to L1..9..10 the charge hereof we think reasonable & suppose will be repaid you, either by the Capt. or Owners of that Ship, for as this Man was not in a capacity to protect the Voyage, Capt Fenner is greatly to blame, in not acquainting Us, with the circumstances he was in, & should have made provision for his support here, as is customary for the Capts on such occasions to do. Otherwise you

10․ The council recorded that William Taylor, a marine belonging to His Majesty’s ship Rippon, together with K. Griffin and John Pink, two boys who were captains’ servants on board the Yarmouth, were all found on the island after the convoy had sailed. They considered it advisable to send them to England by the present opportunity and, for that purpose, gave Captain Maitland an order to receive them on board the Ajax. They paid him £5 each for their passage and allowed them subsistence during their stay on the island as follows. K. Griffin and John Pink, the two boys, were allowed at 6 ⅌ Day each from 6 July to 13 October, both days included, amounting to 16.3 days. William Taylor, being married, was allowed from the same date at 36 ⅌ Week, amounting to 7.19..7. The total charge amounted to £12..2..7.

11․ The council further recorded that they had given Captain Maitland permission to receive on board the ship Ajax James Archets, who had been left behind from the Bristol. As he had been sick during the whole time of his stay on the island, they were obliged to allow him fifteen days’ subsistence at the hospital, amounting to £1..9..10. They stated that this charge was considered reasonable and supposed that it would be repaid, either by the captain or the owners of that ship. They observed that, as this man was not in a condition to prosecute the voyage, Captain Fenner was greatly to blame for not acquainting them with his circumstances and should have made provision for his support on the island, as was customary for captains to do on such occasions.

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Honrs expenses would be often enhanced, from occurrence of this kind.

As the ship Ajax wanted five Men to complete her amplement, after she had Shippd J: Bichets, & agreed to pay him Wages. We gave a permission to Capt. Maitland to receive on board his Ship, Tho: Littlefield a discharged Soldier & as he could not procure any more Men we took this opportunity to put likewise on board, Wm Anderson Jonas Didler, John Hyde & Wm Owen Invalid Soldier, to fill up his Ships Company, they have all signed an Instrument in writing, as you have been pleased to direct, that they will not demand any Wages for their Voyage Home, which we transmit you together with the Surgeons Certificate, in respects to the Invalid.

We transmit you by this opportunity your Honrs General Books of Acounts, baladried to the 11 October last.

The Pafsengers on board the Ajax, are Brigadier General Busby, upon his Parole, Lieut. Colonels Hennefly, Murphey Prisoners of War on Parole Melanthy, & Patkulay Strelstarpis le Mons: Bruby, Mesr. Fountaine & Har, French Surgeons, with sevenls Servants, & five french Prisoners. Capt Vaughan & Colonel Drapers Regiment, & Lieut. Cresats of His Majestis Ship Yarmouths, Wm Douglas, Capt Jones & mrs Kidd.

The council observed that your Honors’ expenses would often be increased by occurrences of this kind.

They further recorded that, as the ship Ajax was short of five men to complete her complement after she had shipped James Bichets and agreed to pay him wages, permission was given to Captain Maitland to receive on board Thomas Littlefield, a discharged soldier. As no further men could be procured, the council also took this opportunity to place on board William Anderson, Jonas Didler, John Hyde, and William Owen, an invalid soldier, in order to make up the ship’s company. They stated that all these men had signed a written instrument, as directed, undertaking that they would not demand any wages for their voyage home. This instrument was transmitted together with the surgeon’s certificate relating to the invalid.

The council recorded that they transmitted on this occasion the Honourable Company’s general books of accounts, balanced to 11 October last.

They further recorded that the passengers on board the Ajax were Brigadier General Busby, on parole; Lieutenant Colonel Hennefly and Lieutenant Colonel Murphey, prisoners of war on parole; Melanthy; Patkulay Strelstarpis le Mons Bruby; Messrs Fountaine and Har, French surgeons, with several servants; and five French prisoners. Also on board were Captain Vaughan and officers of Colonel Draper’s regiment, Lieutenant Cresats of His Majesty’s ship Yarmouths, William Douglas, Captain Jones, and Mrs Kidd.

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15. The two French Colonels, Hennely, Murphey, apply

to Us for twenty Days subsistence, the Time of their

being here, at six Rupees each P day, whats they

allure Us, your Resident, & Council of Fort. George

allowed them there, & told them, as they requested Us,

that if they should be in want of Money here that

we would supply them, in the same manner. We

therefore advanced it to them accordingly, & have

taken their Receipt for the same, which go in the

Packet.

16. Since our last Advices to you, we have had

a tolerable Winter Season, but the Country at present

is very dry, & unless the Summer Rains set in soon

we are apprehensive the Cattle intended for Slaughter,

the next year will be but very small, & indifferent

& that we shall not be able to supply the homeward

bound Ships, so fully as we could wish.

We are

St Helena Honble Sirs

18th Decr: 1760 Your most Obedt & most hum: Servt

(Signed) Chas Hutchenson

John Skottone

John Cart

Mason Ruling

15․ The council recorded that the two French colonels, Hennely and Murphey, applied for twenty days’ subsistence for the time they had been on the island, at the rate of six rupees per day each. They stated that the colonels assured them that your resident and council at Fort St George had allowed them the same there and had told them that, if they should be in want of money at St Helena, it would be supplied to them in the same manner. On this basis, the council advanced the sum accordingly and took their receipts for the amount, which were enclosed in the packet.

16․ The council reported that, since their last advices, they had experienced a tolerable winter season, but that the country was at present very dry. They expressed apprehension that, unless the summer rains set in soon, the cattle intended for slaughter in the following year would be very small and of indifferent quality, and that they would not be able to supply the homeward-bound ships as fully as they would wish.

St Helena
18 December 1760

Your most obedient and most humble servants,

Charles Hutchenson
John Skottone
John Cart
Mason Ruling

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List of the Honorable Companys Packets from St

Helena p His Ajax (Sald the 18 December 1760 arrick

No 1. Govr: & Councils General Letter dated the 18 Decbr 1760

2. Duplicats Do &, Do dated the 5 July, Do

3. Consultations from the 7 July to the 15 Decr Do

4. Duplicats Do from the 19 May to the 5 July Do

5. First Receipt for the Packet p His Majestis Ship

Yarmouth

6. Second Receipt for Do p. Ship Royal George

7. List of Officers & Servants taken Decr. 18. 1760

8. Effectivs Stats of the Garrison

9. Muster Rolles of the Garrison

10. Govr Letter to the Secret Committee

11. Abstract of the Cargo of Ship. Ajax

12. Duplicate of Ships Boats arrival at Bankolls &

the arrival of Ship Ajaxt Boat

13. Ship Ajaxt Account

14. Duplicate Ship Royal Dukes Account

15. Do Calcuttas Do

16. Do Hardwicke Do

17. Do Delawarr Do

18. Do. Winchelsea Do

19. Do Drakes Do

20. Do Rhodas Do

21. Do Tilburey Do

22. Do Britannia Do

The council recorded a list of the Honourable Company’s packets dispatched from St Helena by the Ajax, which sailed on 18 December 1760, consisting of the following items.

1․ The general letter from the governor and council dated 18 December 1760.

2․ Duplicate general letters dated 5 July 1760.

3․ Consultations covering the period from 7 July to 15 December 1760.

4․ Duplicate consultations covering the period from 19 May to 5 July 1760.

5․ The first receipt for the packet sent by His Majesty’s ship Yarmouth.

6․ The second receipt for the packet sent by the ship Royal George.

7․ A list of officers and servants taken on 18 December 1760.

8․ The effective state of the garrison.

9․ The muster rolls of the garrison.

10․ A letter from the governor to the Secret Committee.

11․ An abstract of the cargo of the ship Ajax.

12․ A duplicate statement of the arrival of ships’ boats at Bankolls and of the arrival of the Ajax’s boat.

13․ The account of the ship Ajax.

14․ A duplicate of the account of the ship Royal Duke.

15․ A duplicate of the account of the ship Calcutta.

16․ A duplicate of the account of the ship Hardwicke.

17․ A duplicate of the account of the ship Delaware.

18․ A duplicate of the account of the ship Winchelsea.

19․ A duplicate of the account of the ship Drake.

20․ A duplicate of the account of the ship Rhoda.

21․ A duplicate of the account of the ship Tilburey.

22․ A duplicate of the account of the ship Britannia.

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No 23. Duplicate Ship Walpoles Account

24. Do Doxs Do

25. Do Hectorr Do

26. Do Chesterfield Do

27. Do Prince of Wales Do

28. Do Ongoles Do

29. Do Clintons Do

30. Do Duke of Dorset Do

31. Do Prince Henry Packet Do

32. Do Cash Acct from 19 May to 11 June 1760

33. Do Do from 12 Junes to 5 Jully Do

34. Cash Acct from 6 to the 11 Jully Do

35. Do from 12 July to 11 Aug 1760 Do

36. Do from 12 Aug 1760 to 11 Sep. Do

37. Do from 12 Sep. to 11 Oct. Do

38. Do from 12 to the 3rd Oct. Do

39. Do for the Month of Nov. Do

40. Do from the 1 to 18th Decbr Do

41. Duplicate List of the Packet p His Majestis Ship

Yarmouth

42. Capt Redcumis Second Bill & Exchange & Letter

of Advice

43. Capt Jehylls Do & Do

44. Capt Samsons Do & Do

45. Capt Charller Do for L22.6

for Sloops Wast

46. List of Familys taken the 11 Oct. 1760

47. Do of Serfs taken the 11 Oct. Do

23․ The council recorded that a duplicate of the account of the ship Walpole was enclosed.

24․ The council recorded that a duplicate of the account of the ship Dox was enclosed.

25․ The council recorded that a duplicate of the account of the ship Hector was enclosed.

26․ The council recorded that a duplicate of the account of the ship Chesterfield was enclosed.

27․ The council recorded that a duplicate of the account of the ship Prince of Wales was enclosed.

28․ The council recorded that a duplicate of the account of the ship Ongole was enclosed.

29․ The council recorded that a duplicate of the account of the ship Clinton was enclosed.

30․ The council recorded that a duplicate of the account of the ship Duke of Dorset was enclosed.

31․ The council recorded that a duplicate of the account of the Prince Henry packet was enclosed.

32․ The council recorded that a duplicate cash account covering the period from 19 May to 11 June 1760 was enclosed.

33․ The council recorded that a duplicate cash account covering the period from 12 June to 5 July 1760 was enclosed.

34․ The council recorded that a cash account covering the period from 6 July to 11 July 1760 was enclosed.

35․ The council recorded that a cash account covering the period from 12 July to 11 August 1760 was enclosed.

36․ The council recorded that a cash account covering the period from 12 August 1760 to 11 September 1760 was enclosed.

37․ The council recorded that a cash account covering the period from 12 September to 11 October 1760 was enclosed.

38․ The council recorded that a cash account covering the period from 12 October to 3 October 1760, as stated in the account, was enclosed.

39․ The council recorded that a cash account for the month of November 1760 was enclosed.

40․ The council recorded that a cash account covering the period from 1 December to 18 December 1760 was enclosed.

41․ The council recorded that a duplicate list of the packets sent by His Majesty’s ship Yarmouth was enclosed.

42․ The council recorded that Captain Redcumis’s second bill of exchange, together with the letter of advice, was enclosed.

43․ The council recorded that Captain Jehyll’s second bill of exchange, together with the letter of advice, was enclosed.

44․ The council recorded that Captain Samson’s second bill of exchange, together with the letter of advice, was enclosed.

45․ The council recorded that Captain Charller’s bill of exchange for £22.6, relating to sloop wast, was enclosed.

46․ The council recorded that a list of families taken on 11 October 1760 was enclosed.

47․ The council recorded that a list of serfs taken on 11 October 1760 was enclosed.

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No 48. List of the Honble Companys Slaves taken 11 Oct. 1760

49. Do of Cattle returned Valued for the Year Do

50. Counil Martial from 3rd Decbr 1759 to 16 Decbr Do

51. Generals Books of Accots for the year end 2 the 11 Oct Do

52. Duplicate Narrative of the Battle fought between

Colonel foots Rientral Lally &ca.

53. List of a Discharged Soldrs & 12 Invalids

54. Surgeons Certificate of 4 Invalid Soldier

55. Instrument in Writing from 5 Discharged & Soldier

56. Duplicate List of 17 e Men desertsed out of the

Ship Royal Duke

57. Canary Grafs & ed

58. Capt Maitlands Recuipt for L13.

59. Colonels Hennelys & Murphys Recuipts for L277.

To the Honble &ca

Honble Sirs

We addrefed You last, by your Ship Ajax

that Saild from hence the 18 of December 1760

On the 3 instant, arrived your Honrs Ships

Harcourt, Slimment, Sloughton from Bombay, which Place

they left the 21 of Novr last. And the 12 arrived the Safsbury

from Madras, having Saild from thence on the 5 Novr last

Inglis acquaints Us, that he heard the Orders arrived at

Bengal, about the middle of Sept they having been

informed on their entering, the Streight of Bancas, that

48․ The council recorded that a list of the Honourable Company’s slaves taken on 11 October 1760 was enclosed.

49․ The council recorded that a list was enclosed of cattle returned and valued for the year.

50․ The council recorded that the proceedings of courts martial covering the period from 3 December 1759 to 16 December of the same year were enclosed.

51․ The council recorded that the general books of accounts for the year ended on 11 October were enclosed.

52․ The council recorded that a duplicate narrative was enclosed of the battle fought between Colonel Coote and General Lally, with related matters.

53․ The council recorded that a list was enclosed of discharged soldiers and twelve invalids.

54․ The council recorded that surgeons’ certificates relating to four invalid soldiers were enclosed.

55․ The council recorded that instruments in writing from five discharged soldiers were enclosed.

56․ The council recorded that a duplicate list was enclosed of seventeen men who had deserted from the ship Royal Duke.

57․ The council recorded that samples of Canary grass were enclosed.

58․ The council recorded that Captain Maitland’s receipt for £13 was enclosed.

59․ The council recorded that the receipts of Colonels Hennely and Murphey for £277 were enclosed.

The council then began a further letter addressed to the Honourable Sirs, stating that they had last written by the ship Ajax, which sailed from the island on 18 December 1760.

They reported that, on the 3rd instant, your Honors’ ships Harcourt, Slimment, and Sloughton arrived from Bombay, which place they had left on 21 November last. They further reported that, on the 12th instant, the Salisbury arrived from Madras, having sailed from there on 5 November last. Inglis informed the council that he had heard that orders had arrived at Bengal about the middle of September, they having been informed, on entering the Strait of Bancas, that the orders had been received.

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two French Cruizers, were in those Streights, upon which

they intendid going for Madras, but were drove by contrary

Winds flurenk past that Place, And that your Honrs

reavured that was on board that Ship, was to be sent

for Madras. He also gives Us the followg Account of

Ships arrived & departures to & from Madras viz.

Ships Arival Departure forwhat Place

Prnncefs Augusta

Warwick 7 Sep. China

Carnarvon

Lord Mansfield 16 Do

Onslow 18 Do

Sandwich

Prince Edward 1 Sepr. 26 Do Bengal

Latham 8 Do 29 Do

Lord Anvon 10 Do 7 Oct.

Falmouth

Admiral Watson 30 Aug. remain at Madras

3. Your Resident Council of Madras, acquaint

Us that all the Outworks of the Enemy at Pondicherry, are

in our possession & that they were closely shut up in

that Place, & greatly distrefed, from whence they conclude

that unless the Enemy meet with speedy succourr, there

is great probability of that important Settlement

Surrendering to the Boilics Arms.

4. We hear Admiral Stevens, went from the

Coast, about the 20 Oct. & left Capt Palmar, in the

America, with the Panther, & Newark &c., lyeing to the

The council reported that two French cruisers were in those straits, upon which it was intended to proceed to Madras, but that contrary winds drove the ships past that place. They further stated that the person belonging to your Honors who was on board was to be sent on to Madras. Inglis also gave the following account of ships arriving at and departing from Madras.

Ships - Arrival - Departure - Destination
Princess Augusta
Warwick - 7 September - China
Carnarvon
Lord Mansfield - 16 September
Onslow - 18 September
Sandwich
Prince Edward - 1 September - 26 September - Bengal
Latham - 8 September - 29 September
Lord Anson - 10 September - 7 October
Falmouth
Admiral Watson - 30 August - remained at Madras

3․ The council recorded that the resident and council at Madras had informed them that all the enemy’s outworks at Pondicherry were in British possession and that the enemy were closely shut up in that place and greatly distressed. From this they concluded that, unless the enemy met with speedy succour, there was great probability that this important settlement would surrender to the British arms.

4․ The council reported that they had heard Admiral Stevens went from the coast about 20 October and left Captain Palmar in the America, with the Panther and the Newark and other ships, lying to the coast.

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Northard of Pondicherry, in about thirty fathom of water and

have also been told, that the French Fleet, had not been

seen, or heard of, when the Shafsbury left Madras.

5. Capt Newton, upon his arrival here, informed

Us that he had got on board his Ship John Thompson &

Mattw Spencer, two Deserters, the former from your Honrs

Settlement, of Bombay, the latter from your Ship

Guardian, whom he hath, delivered up to Us

6. As the Ship Sloughton, wanted fourteen Men

to complete her Company, we have put on board the

following discharged Soldiers viz. Wm Smith, George Sell, Ja:

Edwards, John Goulds Henr Simmonds, George Brown, David

Preston Robt Spencer, John Box, Ino s Kemp, P: r Bellion

W: Hylands, Willm Pippard, Wm Dixon

7. We have also put on board the Ship Shafsbury

Danl Hull, Tho Pilkington & George Irce, three more

discharged Soldiers, towards completing her Company

8. And have, likewise given Capt Webber a

permission to receive on board his Ship, Iohn Millen, late

Servant to Iohn Skottowe Esq., & Tho Dunn a discharged

Soldier who have signed an instrument in Writing, as you

have been pleased to direct, that they will not demand

any Wages for their Voyage Home, which we transmit

you herewith.

9. Capt Brebner acquaints Us, that on his

arrival at St Augustines Bay, on the 29 Oct., he

was informed by one of the Country Princes that

two Ships Neptunus York, & and Temple, touched

The council further reported that the ships were lying northward of Pondicherry in about thirty fathoms of water, and that they had also been informed that the French fleet had not been seen or heard of when the Shafsbury left Madras.

5․ The council recorded that Captain Newton, upon his arrival at the island, informed them that he had brought on board his ship John Thompson and Matthew Spencer, two deserters, the former from your Honors’ settlement of Bombay and the latter from your ship Guardian, both of whom he had delivered up to the council.

6․ The council recorded that, as the ship Sloughton wanted fourteen men to complete her company, they had placed on board the following discharged soldiers, namely William Smith, George Sell, James Edwards, John Goulds, Henry Simmonds, George Brown, David Preston, Robert Spencer, John Box, Ino s Kemp, P. r Bellion, William Hylands, William Pippard, and William Dixon.

7․ The council further recorded that they had also placed on board the ship Shafsbury Daniel Hull, Thomas Pilkington, and George Irce, three additional discharged soldiers, towards completing her company.

8․ The council recorded that they had likewise given Captain Webber permission to receive on board his ship John Millen, late servant to John Skottowe Esquire, and Thomas Dunn, a discharged soldier. They stated that both men had signed a written instrument, as directed, undertaking that they would not demand any wages for their voyage home, which instrument was transmitted.

9․ The council recorded that Captain Brebner informed them that, upon his arrival at St Augustine’s Bay on 29 October, he was told by one of the country princes that two ships, the Neptunus York and the Temple, had touched there.

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there on their Voyage to India

10. The Pafsengers on board these Ships, are as

follows viz.

Mr Hanningham

Mr Stough

Mr Steven On board the Harcourt

Mr Walsh

Mr Bodham

Major Frazer

Mr Hughes On board the Stormont

Capt Warner

Mr Hall

Mr Breed On board the Sloughton

Mr Breseton

Mifs Breseton

Wm Stuart

Mr Forster On board the Shafsbury

Capt Curney

Capt Fitzgu Prisoner taken at Wandewash

11. The Governor hath paid two hundred Pounds

into your Cash, which we have received, & given him

Bills of Exchange drawn on your Honrs, for that

Sum, payable to himself, or Order, 90 Days after

sight, dated the 23 instant.

12. Capt Wm Webber, applied to Us, to pay

L604..19..6 into your Cash, which we have received

& given him Bills of Exchange, drawn on your

Honrs for that Sum, payable to himself, or Order, 90

Days after sight, dated the 20 instant.

10․ The council recorded that the passengers on board these ships were as follows. On board the Harcourt were Mr Hanningham, Mr Stough, Mr Steven, Mr Walsh, and Mr Bodham. On board the Stormont were Major Frazer, Mr Hughes, Captain Warner, and Mr Hall. On board the Sloughton were Mr Breed, Mr Breseton, Miss Breseton, and William Stuart. On board the Shafsbury were Mr Forster, Captain Curney, and Captain Fitzgu, a prisoner taken at Wandewash.

11․ The council recorded that the governor had paid £200 0s 0d into the Company’s cash, which was received, and that bills of exchange were given to him for that sum, drawn on your Honors, payable to himself or order, ninety days after sight, dated the 23 instant.

12․ The council recorded that Captain William Webber applied to pay £604 19s 6d into the Company’s cash, which was received, and that bills of exchange were given to him for that sum, drawn on your Honors, payable to himself or order, ninety days after sight, dated the 20 instant.

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13. Samuel Stough Esqr. applied to Us, to pay

L.500 - into your Cash, which We have received and

given him Bills of Exchange, drawn on your Honour

for that Sum, payable to Samuel Stough, & Andrew

Moffat, Esqr. or their Order, 90 Days after sight, dated

the 23d. instant.

14. Captain Cornelius Jughes applied to Us, to pay

L.400 - into your Cash, which We have received & given

him Bills of Exchange drawn on your Honour for

that Sum; payable to himself, or Order, 90 Days after

sight, dated the 20th. instant.

15. Captains Carney, & Blazey belonging to General

Collegys Regiment, applied to Us, for twelve Days

Subsistence; the time of their being here, at four Rupees

each p.Day, what they assure Us, your President and

Council of Fort St.George allowed them there, & told them

as they aquiesed Us, that if they should be in want of

money here, that We would supply them in the same

manner, We therefore advanced it to them accordingly,

& have taken their Receipts for the same, which go in

the Packet

16. We informed you, in our Letter by the Ajax, of

the scituation of the Country at that time, since when, We have

had but very little Rains, but there is at present, some

appearance of the Season setting in, as We have lately

had a few Showers We are.

N:Holland Gentle.Sor

to Sr. Your most Obedt. & most humble Servts.

24 Septr. 1754 Signd Wm. Hutchinson

John Hollowed

John Clark

Burling

13․ The council recorded that Samuel Stough, Esquire, applied to pay £500 0s 0d into the Company’s cash. This sum was received, and bills of exchange were issued for that amount, drawn on your Honor, payable to Samuel Stough and Andrew Moffat, Esquire, or their order, ninety days after sight, dated 23 September.

14․ The council recorded that Captain Cornelius Jughes applied to pay £400 0s 0d into the Company’s cash. This sum was received, and bills of exchange were issued for that amount, drawn on your Honor, payable to himself or order, ninety days after sight, dated 20 September.

15․ The council recorded that Captains Carney and Blazey, belonging to General Collegy’s Regiment, applied for twelve days’ subsistence for the time they had remained on the island, at the rate of four rupees per day each. They stated that these officers assured them that the president and council of Fort St George had allowed them the same there and had informed them that, should they be in want of money at St Helena, it would be supplied in the same manner. On this basis, the council advanced the amount accordingly and took their receipts for the sum, which were enclosed in the packet.

16․ The council stated that they had informed you in their letter sent by the Ajax of the condition of the country at that time. Since then, they had experienced very little rain, but there was at present some appearance of the season setting in, as a few showers had lately fallen.

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from St.Helena

List of the Printed Companys Packet, Ship Harcourt

dated the 15th: of July 1754 Vizr.

No. 1. Govr. & Council Genl. Letter dated 24 July. 1754

2 Duplicate Govr. & Councils Genl. Letter dated 1st Dec. 1750

3 Consultations from 22 Deer. 1750 to the 20th July. 1751

4 Duplicate Do. from 1 July, to 15th Deer. 1750

5 Inort Receipts for the Packet of Ship Ajax

6 Second Receipts for Do. of Ship Roydon when she arrived at

7 List of Officers Servants taken 24th July 1754

8 Schedule State of the Garrison

9 Muster Rolls of Do.

10 Govr. Letter to the Secret Committee

11 Abstract of the Cargoes of Ships Harcourt, Hormont, Kingsdown,

& Shaftsbury

12 Time of the Arrival of Ships Boult at Bombay

10 Govr. Letter to the Secret Committee

11 Abstract of the Cargoes of Ships Harcourt, Hormont, Kingsdown,

& Shaftsbury

12 Time of the Arrival of Ships Boult at Bombay

13 Duplicate of Ship Upsons Account

14 Ship Harcourt Do.

15 Do. Hormont Do.

16 Do. Shaftsbury Do.

17 Duplicate Cash Acct. from 1 to 11 July 1750

18 Do. Do. from 12 July, to 11 Aug. Do.

19 Do. Do. from 12 Aug. to 11 Sepr. Do.

20 Do. Do. from 12 Sepr. to 11 Octr. Do.

21 Do. Do. from 12 to 21 Octr. Do.

22 Do. Do. for the Month of Novr. Do.

23 Do. Do. from the 1st to the 18 Deer. Do.

The council recorded a list of the Honourable Company’s printed packets dispatched from St Helena by the ship Harcourt, dated 15 July 1754, consisting of the following items.

1․ A general letter from the governor and council dated 24 July 1754.

2․ A duplicate general letter from the governor and council dated 1 December 1750.

3․ Consultations covering the period from 22 December 1750 to 20 July 1751.

4․ Duplicate consultations covering the period from 1 July 1750 to 15 December 1750.

5․ The first receipts for the packet sent by the ship Ajax.

6․ The second receipts for the packet sent by the ship Roydon when she arrived.

7․ A list of officers and servants taken on 24 July 1754.

8․ A schedule showing the state of the garrison.

9․ The muster rolls of the garrison.

10․ A letter from the governor to the Secret Committee.

11․ Abstracts of the cargoes of the ships Harcourt, Hormont, Kingsdown, and Shaftsbury.

12․ A statement of the times of arrival of ships’ boats at Bombay.

13․ A duplicate of the account of the ship Upson.

14․ The account of the ship Harcourt.

15․ The account of the ship Hormont.

16․ The account of the ship Shaftsbury.

17․ A duplicate cash account covering the period from 1 July to 11 July 1750.

18․ A duplicate cash account covering the period from 12 July to 11 August 1750.

19․ A duplicate cash account covering the period from 12 August to 11 September 1750.

20․ A duplicate cash account covering the period from 12 September to 11 October 1750.

21․ A duplicate cash account covering the period from 12 October to 21 October 1750.

22․ A duplicate cash account for the month of November 1750.

23․ A duplicate cash account covering the period from 1 December to 18 December 1750.

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No. 24 Cash Account from the 19 to the 31 Deer. 1750

25 Do. for the month of Janry. 1751

26 Do. from the 1st to the 24 Feby. Do.

27 Duplicate List of the Packets of Ship Ajax

28 Do. List of Frambes taken 11 Octr. 1750

29 Do. List of Rents taken 11 Octr. Do.

30 Do. List of the Honble. Comps. slaves taken 11 Octr. Do.

31 Do. List of Cattle returned & killed for the Year Do.

32 Instrument of writing from John Miller & Tho. Burnet

33 List of four Discharged Soldier

34 Copys of Coll. Kennedys Warraphy Receipts for £27

35 Do. of Capt. Marshands Receipts for £15

36 Capts. Carney & Blazeys Receipts for £10.16

To the Honble Your

Honble Sir

1. Our Cash Advices to your Honors,

sent by the Ship Harcourt, which sailed from hence

on the 25 of Feby. in company with the Hormont, &

Shaftsbury

2. Your Ships Prince Henry, Captain

Maggey arrived here, on the 6 of April, & sailed on

the 28 of that Month; the whole we recd. by that Convoy

shall in all respects, be implicitly complyed with, and

duly Chronicled

The

The council continued the list of the Honourable Company’s printed packets as follows.

24․ A cash account covering the period from 19 December to 31 December 1750.

25․ A cash account for the month of January 1751.

26․ A cash account covering the period from 1 February to 24 February 1751.

27․ A duplicate list of the packets sent by the ship Ajax.

28․ A duplicate list of frames taken on 11 October 1750.

29․ A duplicate list of rents taken on 11 October 1750.

30․ A duplicate list of the Honourable Company’s slaves taken on 11 October 1750.

31․ A duplicate list of cattle returned and killed for the year.

32․ An instrument in writing from John Miller and Thomas Burnet.

33․ A list of four discharged soldiers.

34․ Copies of Colonel Kennedy’s Warrephy receipts for £27.

35․ Copies of Captain Marshand’s receipts for £15.

36․ The receipts of Captains Carney and Blazey for £10 16s 0d.

The council then addressed a further letter to the Honourable Sir.

1․ The council stated that their cash advices to your Honors had been sent by the ship Harcourt, which sailed from St Helena on 25 February in company with the Hormont and the Shaftsbury.

2․ The council reported that your ship Prince Henry, commanded by Captain Maggey, arrived at the island on 6 April and sailed again on 28 April. They stated that everything received by that convoy would in all respects be implicitly complied with and duly recorded.

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3. As we find, we can furnish ourselves with

Cash sufficient for the Stores of the present Year,

by drawing Bills upon your Honr. we consigned

the two Chests of Treasure to your Supra Cargoes

at Canton

4. Yesterday in the forenoon, arrived & Dane

Ship from China, called the Queen of Denmark,

Capt. Holm, burthen about 500 Tons, carrys 28 Guns

& 135: Men, laden with Tea & Porland Ware: The

Capt. acquaints Us, that he left Canton the 20

of Jany. & that your Ships the Hatton, Piercly,

Oxford, Valentines & Upton, sailed from thence

early in that Month.

5. Yesterday Evening arrived likewise your

Honor Snow London, Capt. George Baker, the Capt.

informs Us, that he left Pondicherry the 11 of July

& brings Us the agreeable News of the Reduction

of that important Settlement, the 17 of Jany. last;

which we beg leave to congratulate your Honors

upon: He likewise brought Us the melancholy

account, of the loss of the Majestys Ships Duke

of Acquitant, Sunderland, Newcastle, & Queensborgh

& your Ships Protector & Duke, on the 3d of Jany.

at Night, in a violent Storm in Pondeckery Road.

Capt. Baker further acquaints Us, he heard that

the Duke of Backmont, & Norfolk, were safe at

Malacca in Janvany last.

6. This day arrived the Royal Duke from

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3․ The council stated that, as they found they could furnish themselves with sufficient cash for the stores of the present year by drawing bills upon your Honor, they therefore consigned the two chests of treasure to your supra-cargoes at Canton.

4․ The council reported that, yesterday in the forenoon, a Danish ship from China called the Queen of Denmark, commanded by Captain Holm, arrived. She was of about 500 tons burthen, carried 28 guns and 135 men, and was laden with tea and porcelain ware. The captain informed the council that he left Canton on 20 January and that your ships the Hatton, Piercly, Oxford, Valentines, and Upton had sailed from there early in that month.

5․ The council further reported that yesterday evening your Honor’s snow London, commanded by Captain George Baker, also arrived. Captain Baker informed them that he left Pondicherry on 11 July and brought the agreeable news of the reduction of that important settlement on 17 January last, upon which they begged leave to congratulate your Honors. He likewise brought the melancholy account of the loss of His Majesty’s ships Duke of Aquitaine, Sunderland, Newcastle, and Queensborough, together with your ships Protector and Duke, on the night of 3 January, in a violent storm in Pondicherry Road. Captain Baker further acquainted them that he had heard the Duke of Backmont and the Norfolk were safe at Malacca in January last.

6․ The council recorded that on this day the Royal Duke arrived.

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Bengal, Capt. Pigou acquaints Us, that he left the

Pilot the 29 of January last, and that the Latham

& Lorde Anson, were to be dispatched for Europe soon

after.

7. As the Snow sails to Day, we cannot have

time to Answer your Letter received by the Prince

Henry in a proper manner, by this opportunity

neither can we transmit the Copys of our

Consultations, but the Duplicates & most of the

other usualy Papers, we enclose your herewith.

8. We have put on board the Snow London,

seven discharged Soldiers as p. List enclosed, and

John Melody a Seaman who deserted from her now,

Meraury, they have all signed an instrument in

owning as you have been pleased to direct,

that they will not Demand any Wages for

their Passage Homes which we transmit you

herewith.

9. The Passengers on board of the Royal

Duke, are Mr. Fras. Sykes, Capt. John Mellish &

Lieut. Xtian Kyle, who on board the Crown

& London, a French Lieutenant Colonel, & a Captain,

Prisoners of War

We are

N.Holland Honble Sir

to Sr. Your most Obedt & most humble

13 May 1751. Signd Wm. Hutchinson

John Hollowed

John Clark

Marhd Burling

6․ The council recorded that the Royal Duke arrived from Bengal. Captain Pigou informed the council that he left the pilot on 29 January last and that the Latham and the Lord Anson were to be dispatched for Europe soon afterwards.

7․ The council stated that, as the snow sailed that day, they did not have time to answer your letter received by the Prince Henry in a proper manner by that opportunity, nor could they transmit copies of their consultations. They noted, however, that the duplicates and most of the other usual papers were enclosed.

8․ The council recorded that they had put on board the snow London seven discharged soldiers, as per the enclosed list, together with John Melody, a seaman who had deserted from the Mercury. They stated that all had signed a written instrument, as directed, undertaking that they would not demand any wages for their passage home, which instrument was transmitted.

9․ The council recorded that the passengers on board the Royal Duke were Mr Francis Sykes, Captain John Mellish, and Lieutenant Xtian Kyle, together with, on board the Crown and the London, a French lieutenant colonel and a captain, prisoners of war.

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I understand now. I need to add a blank line between each numbered item. Here is the correct transcription:

List of the Honble Companys Packets from St.Helena of the Snow London, dated the 13 May, 1751 viz.

No. 1. Govr. & Councils General Letter dated 13 May 1751

2 Duplicate Do. (Do.) dated 24 Feby. Do.

3 Do. Consultations from 22 Deer. 1750 to 23d Feby. Do.

4 Slevrs Receipts for the Packets of Ship Ajax

5 First Receipts for Do. of Ship Harcourt

6 Govr. Letter to the Secret Committee

7 Duplicate Ship Harcourts Account

8 Do. Ship Hormonts Do.

9 Do. Ship Shaftsburys Do.

10 Prince Henrys Account

11 Snow Londons Do.

12 Duplicate Cash Acct. from 19 to the 31 Deer. 1750

13 Do. Do. for the Month of Janry. 1751

14 Do. Do. from the 1st to the 24 Feby. Do.

15 Cash Acct. from the 25 to the 28 Feby. Do.

16 Do. for the month of March Do.

17 Do. for the month of April Do.

18 Do. from the 1 to the 13 may Do.

19 Duplicate Captains Carney & Blazeys Receipts for £10:16

20 Instroment of writing from 7 Discharged Soldier & John Melody, who deserted from the mercury, now

21 List of 7 discharged Soldier

The council recorded a list of the Honourable Company’s packets sent from St Helena by the snow London, dated 13 May 1751, consisting of the following items.

1․ The general letter from the governor and council dated 13 May 1751.

2․ A duplicate general letter dated 24 February 1751.

3․ Consultations covering the period from 22 December 1750 to 23 February 1751.

4․ Silver receipts for the packets sent by the ship Ajax.

5․ The first receipts for the packets sent by the ship Harcourt.

6․ A letter from the governor to the Secret Committee.

7․ A duplicate of the account of the ship Harcourt.

8․ A duplicate of the account of the ship Hormont.

9․ A duplicate of the account of the ship Shaftsbury.

10․ The account of the ship Prince Henry.

11․ The account of the snow London.

12․ A duplicate cash account covering the period from 19 December to 31 December 1750.

13․ A duplicate cash account for the month of January 1751.

14․ A duplicate cash account covering the period from 1 February to 24 February 1751.

15․ A cash account covering the period from 25 February to 28 February 1751.

16․ A cash account for the month of March 1751.

17․ A cash account for the month of April 1751.

18․ A cash account covering the period from 1 May to 13 May 1751.

19․ A duplicate of the receipts of Captains Carney and Blazey for £10 16s 0d.

20․ An instrument in writing from seven discharged soldiers and from John Melody, who had deserted from the Mercury.

21․ A list of seven discharged soldiers.

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To the Honble Your

Honble Sir

1. We addressed you lastly by the Snow London, which

sailed from hence on the 13 instant.

2. As we acquainted You by that opportunity,

that we had not time then to Answer, as we intended

your Letter received by the Prince Henry, but were

obliged to defer it, until another Conveyance; & this

being the first that haves since offered, We now beg

leave to Congratulate You upon the safe arrival of

the several Ships, dispatched from this Place, the

last Year; three now on their return, together with

what you have been pleased to take into your Service,

for carrying on your Trade, the current Year, We

flatter ourselves, will have the like Success, answer

all the purposes intended, & in due time, be returned

to You in Safety, with every advantage expected in

the commercial way.

3. The intelligence we have communicated from

time to time, in our several Letters, we are pleased

has met with your approbation; thus shall be

continued in the usual explicit manner, & inform

when your Ships sail under Convoy of his majestys

Ships, a Duplicate of our Letter by such Conveyance

shall be put under the charge of the Senior Captain

1․ The council stated that they had last written to you by the snow London, which sailed from the island on 13 May.

2․ The council recalled that they had informed you on that occasion that they did not then have time to reply, as they had intended, to your letter received by the Prince Henry, and were therefore obliged to defer their answer until another conveyance. As this was the first opportunity that had since presented itself, they now begged leave to congratulate you upon the safe arrival of the several ships dispatched from this place in the previous year. They noted that three of those ships were now on their return, together with those which you had been pleased to take into your service for carrying on your trade during the current year. They expressed their confidence that these vessels would meet with the same success, answer all the purposes intended, and in due time be returned to you safely, with every advantage expected in a commercial sense.

3․ The council observed that the intelligence they had communicated from time to time in their several letters had met with your approbation. They stated that this practice would be continued in the usual explicit manner and that, when your ships sailed under convoy of His Majesty’s ships, a duplicate of their letter sent by such a conveyance would be placed under the charge of the senior captain.

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in your Service, As it has been always customary

to transmit your Packets by the Ships of War, we

apprehend, were we to alter that custom, it might

give offence to the Capt. of His majestys Ships,

therefore hope, that the Inclosed is proper to go them

with be satisfactory

4. All Orders received from the Gentlemen of the

Secret Committee, or the Committee for the time being,

shall be duly Observed, & complied with, by the Board

or Persons, to whom they are, or may be addressed

5. The Stores you have been pleased to consign

Us, by the Ships Prince Henry, we make no doubt, will

answer all Demands for the present Year. That

Ship discharged her Consignments within the time

limited, except one Day, which was owing under an

unavoidably necessity to Allow, on Account of

Proclaiming the Royal Majesty King George the

Third, Actions could be performed that Day, her

regular Time of Dispatch, striking out the Sundays

that intervened, did not come on, until the 20 of April

therefore on that Od.day, we gave the Captain his

Dispatches, & sailing Orders, &on the 28 of that Month

he proceeded on his voyage, which was as soon as he

possibly could get away

6. As the Sailing introduced the last Year, in

the Charterparty, is still continued, in respect to the

Agreement, & Payment for Demurrage, & days last

& underchoked, we shall, upon all Occurrences of the

4․ The council stated that all orders received from the gentlemen of the Secret Committee, or from the committee for the time being, would be duly observed and complied with by the board, or by the persons to whom such orders were, or might be, addressed.

5․ The council stated that the stores consigned to them by the ship Prince Henry would, they had no doubt, answer all demands for the present year. They explained that the ship discharged her consignments within the time limited, except for one day, which delay was unavoidable on account of proclaiming His Royal Majesty King George the Third, during which no actions could be performed. They noted that her regular time of dispatch, excluding the Sundays that intervened, did not fall due until 20 April. On that day they gave the captain his dispatches and sailing orders, and on 28 April he proceeded on his voyage, which was as soon as he could possibly get away.

6․ The council stated that, as the sailing arrangements introduced in the previous year in the charterparty were still continued with respect to the agreement and payment for demurrage and days lost or underworked, they would, upon all occurrences of that nature, govern themselves accordingly.

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kind happening here, particularly attend thereto &

observe your Directions thereupon, & for that end,

shall be very exact in Decerning, & ascertaining

how & in what manner, the Damages, & short

Deliverys appear to have proceeded from, & together

with every information that Occurs necessary to be

communicated on the Subject, in order to enable you

to Settle the Same with the respective Owners, we are

concerned to find that your Honors Trade this Year,

will be attended with a greater Charge than usual,

by the encrease of freight & Demorage

7. We shall avoid putting You to any expence

for the Passage & Accomidation, of any Person, we

may be under the necessity to Order to board your

Ships, that are to be Dieted at the Captains Table.

The five Pounds p.head, you have been pleased to

Order, shall be paid only on account, of your

Invalid Soldiery, under the Rank of Commishond

Officers

8. We are glad your Honors have Aproved all

Accounts with Mr. Rt. Bendry, & others of the Sura

Long Boats Crew

9. Notwithstanding your injunctions to the

several Commanders, to supply themselves fully with

wood, & provisions in India, that their Demands here,

may be as little as possible, we those Articles, many

of them lately, have been much in want, & have

have been obliged to supply them, the Consumption

The council continued that, whenever matters of this kind occurred on the island, they would give them particular attention and observe your directions thereupon. To that end, they stated that they would be very exact in discerning and ascertaining how and in what manner damages and short deliveries appeared to have arisen, and would communicate every piece of information that might be necessary on the subject, in order to enable you to settle such matters with the respective owners. They added that they were concerned to find that your Honors’ trade for the present year would be attended with a greater charge than usual, owing to the increase of freight and demurrage.

7․ The council stated that they would avoid putting you to any expense for the passage and accommodation of any persons whom they might be under the necessity of ordering on board your ships, where such persons were to be dieted at the captains’ table. They explained that the payment of five pounds per head, which you had been pleased to order, would be made only on account of your invalid soldiery under the rank of commissioned officers.

8․ The council expressed their satisfaction that your Honors had approved all accounts with Mr Robert Bendry and others belonging to the Sura long boat’s crew.

9․ The council reported that, notwithstanding your injunctions to the several commanders to supply themselves fully with wood and provisions in India, so that their demands at St Helena might be as small as possible, those articles had lately been much wanted by many ships. They stated that they had nevertheless been obliged to supply them, and that the consumption on these occasions had been considerable.

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of wood, hereby occasioned, greatly distress the Island

& will, if not timely prevented, produce the worst

consequences, in order therefore to remedy this Evil,

before it is too late, We beg you will be pleased

to Supply the Yearly, with what Coals we shall

Indents for, that we may furnish the Captains with

them instead of wood, for fuel in their Homeward

bound Passage, finding by experience, that there

is no relying on their Supplying themselves

sufficiently, with Wood in India, for their consumption

during their stay here, & passage home

10. We have received the Long Boat, framed

which will certainly be much more serviceable, than

any we purchase from the Commanders, we think

it very reasonable, thats the Captains should make

good any Damages the Boat, may suffer in the

use they make of them, in Victoring their Ships

& at the same for this is, thats those Damages are

seldom discovered before it is too late for it to be

made good by their repairing them, there is no

Detaining a Ship on that Account, & when several

of the Commanders alternate, use them, it is

sometimes very difficult to fix where, & by whom

the Damages have been done

11. We return your Honors thanks for the Stores

you have been pleased to furnish Us with, by the

Prince Henry, of which we shall take due care, &

dispose of to the best advantage

9․ The council explained that the consumption of wood occasioned in this manner greatly distressed the island and would, if not timely prevented, produce the worst consequences. In order therefore to remedy this evil before it was too late, they requested that you would be pleased to supply them yearly with whatever coal they should indent for, so that they might furnish captains with coal instead of wood for fuel on their homeward-bound passage. They stated that experience had shown there was no relying on captains supplying themselves sufficiently with wood in India for their consumption during their stay at the island and for the voyage home.

10․ The council recorded that they had received the framed longboat, which would certainly be much more serviceable than any purchased from commanders. They considered it very reasonable that captains should make good any damage the boat might suffer in the use made of it for victualling their ships. At the same time, they observed that such damages were seldom discovered before it was too late for them to be repaired by the responsible parties, that a ship could not be detained on that account, and that when several commanders alternately used the boats it was sometimes very difficult to determine where and by whom the damage had been done.

11․ The council returned their thanks to your Honors for the stores you had been pleased to furnish them with by the Prince Henry, of which they stated they would take due care and dispose of to the best advantage.

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12. Finding we have a prospect to supply

ourselves sufficiently with Pork, by drawing Bills upon

you, to answer all Demands your Stores requires,

for the Current Year, we forwarded the two Chests of

Treasure, you were pleased to Consign to Us, to your

Supra Cargoes at Canton, with Invoice & Bill of Lading

& wrote them off, thats which was for this Place

13. We flatter ourselves that in due time, we shall

receive the several Articles from China, Agreeable to

our Indents, & the order you have pleased to give

thereupon

14. Our having so ample a Stock, of Salt Provisions

on hand, will not be the least relief, to lesen the

Demands of Foreign, or your own Ships for fresh

Provisions, the latter being whats they want for

refresching their People, & recovering their Sick, in

which the former is of no use, as most of them have

a sufficient quantity of Salt Provisions for their

voyage Home. The demand of fresh, & consequently

the consumption thereof, for the Salutary purpose

of Refreshments, will not be lesened, or altered

15. By way of China, we addressed your several

Presidencys for Sugar, & other Articles wanted for the

use of this Island

16. The Your Sheets of Claret, we have seen Powell

be appropriated for the use, & Entertainment of those

Gentlemen you mention

12․ The council stated that, finding they had a prospect of supplying themselves sufficiently with pork by drawing bills upon you to answer all demands required for your stores during the current year, they therefore forwarded the two chests of treasure which you had been pleased to consign to them to your supra-cargoes at Canton, together with the invoice and bill of lading, and wrote off that part which was intended for this place.

13․ The council expressed their confidence that, in due time, they would receive the several articles from China in accordance with their indents and with the orders you had been pleased to give thereupon.

14․ The council explained that having so ample a stock of salt provisions on hand would be of considerable relief in lessening the demands of foreign ships, or of your own ships, for fresh provisions. They noted that your own ships chiefly required fresh provisions for refreshing their people and restoring their sick, purposes for which salt provisions were of no use, whereas most foreign ships already carried sufficient quantities of salt provisions for their voyage home. They therefore stated that the demand for fresh provisions, and consequently their consumption for the salutary purpose of refreshment, would not be lessened or altered.

15․ The council stated that, by way of China, they had addressed your several presidencies for sugar and other articles required for the use of the island.

16․ The council recorded that the two chests of claret, which they had seen Powell bring, had been appropriated for the use and entertainment of those gentlemen whom you had mentioned.

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17. We recd. the two Sets of Mills Stones, your

Supra Cargoes sent from China the last Season, for

the use of Fort Marlborrow, & shall according to

your directions, forward them in sets by the first

opportunity that Offer to either of your Presidencys

with an accompanying Invoice, & Bill of Lading

for the same

18. To prevent your losing by the Pork Board,

you sent Us last Year, we were under a necessity

to raise the Price thereof above the price usually

fixed for Contivoent Liquors, to your servants and

the Planters, & although it come thereby Dear to

them, we have got rid of much of it, at some profit

19. which we have experienced the goodness of,

the Pitch sent Us this Year, we shall not fail

to inform you, whether it is preferable, & answers

better, than that which we have heretofore received

20. As we had very little Timber remaining,

the thirty pieces of Virgin Timber, you were

pleased to Send Us by the Prince Henry, were

very acceptable, being much wanted

21. If we find upon inspection, that the

Flour you took out of the Royal Duke the last

Year, & now recd. should not be so good as that

since provided, we shall take care in that case,

to expend it first, & hope the whole will prove

better than what were the last Year, a great part

of which was very badd

17․ The council recorded that they had received the two sets of millstones which your supra-cargoes had sent from China in the previous season for the use of Fort Marlborough. They stated that, in accordance with your directions, they would forward them in sets by the first opportunity that offered to either of your presidencies, together with an accompanying invoice and bill of lading.

18․ The council explained that, in order to prevent your suffering loss on the pork brought out in the previous year, they were under a necessity of raising the price above that usually fixed for contingent liquors to your servants and the planters. Although it thereby became dearer to them, they stated that they had disposed of much of it at some profit.

19․ The council stated that, having experienced the quality of the pitch sent to them this year, they would not fail to inform you whether it was preferable and answered better than that which they had received on former occasions.

20․ The council reported that, as they had very little timber remaining, the thirty pieces of virgin timber which you were pleased to send by the Prince Henry were very acceptable and much needed.

21․ The council stated that, if upon inspection they found that the flour taken out of the Royal Duke in the previous year and now received was not so good as that since provided, they would in that case take care to expend it first. They expressed the hope that the whole would prove better than that received in the previous year, a great part of which had been very bad.

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22. We never purchase any thing of the Commanders

on your Account, but in Cases of necessity & then

endeavour to procure them at the lowest rate, we

constantly Indents to Bengal, & your other Settlements

for as large a quantity of Rice, as the Tonnage

will Admit of, leaving room only for Arrack,

Sugar, & some netoboary Articles, which we

cannot do without.

23. Upon the Sickness recd. last Year by the

Triton, being reported by the Master burnt to Us,

as unserviceable, we ordered a survey of the

Carpenters thereon, who upon inspection conformed

them defects, we therefore judged it most advisable to

return them to You, that you might obtain satisfaction

of the Person who provided them, & cannot help

being surprised to hear, that those very Articles should

be deemed on a Survey in England, good & serviceable,

the latter report befowring so widely from the former,

leaves us room to Say, no more on the Subject, we

hope the Event will prove they are equally as

serviceable to your Honors, as the proof Master &

your Surveyors have deemed them

24. Nothing is ever wrote off your Books, as worn

out, & unserviceable, but what are really so, we

shall not in this, or in any other circumstance

encrease your Expences, unless there is an absolute

necessity for it.

22․ The council stated that they never purchased anything from commanders on your account except in cases of necessity, and that even then they endeavoured to procure such items at the lowest possible rate. They explained that they constantly indented to Bengal and to your other settlements for as large a quantity of rice as the available tonnage would admit, leaving room only for arrack, sugar and certain necessary articles without which they could not manage.

23․ The council explained that, after the sickness received the previous year by the Triton had been reported to them by the master as burnt and unserviceable, they ordered a survey by the carpenters. Upon inspection, the carpenters confirmed the defects. The council therefore judged it most advisable to return the articles to you, so that you might obtain satisfaction from the person who had supplied them. They expressed surprise to learn that those same articles had been judged good and serviceable upon a survey in England. They observed that the latter report differed so widely from the former that they would say no more on the subject, expressing the hope that the outcome would prove the articles to be as serviceable to your Honors as the proof master and your surveyors had deemed them.

24․ The council stated that nothing was ever written off your books as worn out or unserviceable unless it truly was so. They assured you that they would not, in this or in any other circumstance, increase your expenses unless there was an absolute necessity to do so.

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25. The kind concern you have been pleased to

express at the misfortunes we laboured under, the two

preceding years, in respects to the Scarcity of the

Season, exalts in Us a warmth of gratitude, &

acknowledgment for so tender a regard: We have

the pleasure now to acquaint you, that nor

apprehensions have in a great measure been

alleviated, by the favorable Summer Rains it has

pleased God to bless Us with, which have produced

plenty of Herbage, & will no doubt be of great service

to the Cattle designed for Slaughter this Year,

but notwithstanding, as many of them are very small

& the returns for Slaughter this Season forty less than

the last Year, makes us apprehensive we shall be

put to the Utmost difficulty to supply these hopes,

if they continue here any time, & from the little

encrease of Cattle of all kinds, together with the

loss sustained from the wants of Food, the two

preceding Years, we are sorry to inform you, that

we have a very indifferent prospect of furnishing

much Provisions for the Year 1752

26. It gives Us great satisfaction, that your

Honrs. approves of the several Rules & Regulations

we have lately made for preventing Abuses, and

suppressing many immunities, which we shall take

care to See punctually, & duly executed. And we

hope the Methods we have taken, & the Times we

laid on the several Offenders last Year, will have

25․ The council expressed their gratitude for the kind concern you had been pleased to show regarding the misfortunes they had suffered during the two preceding years as a result of seasonal scarcity, which they stated inspired in them a strong sense of gratitude and acknowledgement for such tender regard. They reported that they now had the pleasure of informing you that their apprehensions had been greatly alleviated by the favourable summer rains with which God had blessed them. These rains had produced an abundance of herbage and would, they believed, be of great service to the cattle intended for slaughter in the present year. Nevertheless, they observed that many of the cattle were very small, and that the returns for slaughter during the current season were forty fewer than in the previous year. This caused them to fear that they would be put to the utmost difficulty in supplying the ships, should they remain at the island for any length of time. They further explained that, owing to the small increase in cattle of all kinds, together with the losses sustained from want of food during the two preceding years, they regretted to inform you that they had a very indifferent prospect of furnishing large quantities of provisions for the year 1752.

26․ The council stated that it gave them great satisfaction that your Honors approved of the several rules and regulations they had lately made for preventing abuses and suppressing many irregularities. They affirmed that they would take care to see these measures punctually and duly executed, and expressed the hope that the methods they had adopted, together with the punishments imposed on several offenders in the previous year, would have a beneficial effect.

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due Effect on their Conducts in future

27. We do not apprehend, that the frequent

Desertimes Slaves proceeds from any severe

Corporal Punishments inflicted on them, this they

never meet with, but for Capital Offences, such as

would take any Mans Life away by the Laws

of England. The Method you have been pleased

to prescribe of Imprisoning them, with a scanty

Diet, we whoever will have very little Effect, as

they are a set of People Naturally Indolent, and

Lazy, would look on this Method, rather encouraging,

than curing their last Habits, besides the Imprisonment

would be of great Disadvantage to their Masters, who

during the time of such Confinement, would lose all

Service & Labour from them

28. We endeavour to keep your Fortifications in

as good repair, as the Venture of their Construction

will admit of, & your Honors may rely on our doing

our Utmost to defend them, in case we should be

Attacked. There constantly has been & is a proper

quantity of Powder, & Ball necessary for the Artillery

at every Battery, & those so disposed, as to be

come at, upon all Occasions without Confusion

29. Should your Settlements on the Coast part,

be again put into your Possession, which we

sincerely hope will soon be, we could not possibly

spare any of your Slaves that are Stonelayers,

these Handicrafts are extremely useful, at present

26․ The council added that they trusted these measures would have their due effect on the conduct of those concerned in future.

27․ The council stated that they did not apprehend the frequent desertions of slaves to proceed from any severe corporal punishments inflicted upon them, as such punishments were never inflicted except for capital offences of the kind which, by the laws of England, would take away any man’s life. They explained that the method you had been pleased to prescribe of imprisoning them on a scanty diet would, in their opinion, have very little effect, as they were a people naturally indolent and lazy and would regard this method rather as an encouragement than as a cure for their bad habits. They further observed that such imprisonment would be of great disadvantage to their masters, who during the period of confinement would lose all service and labour from them.

28․ The council stated that they endeavoured to keep your fortifications in as good repair as the nature of their construction would admit of, and assured your Honors that they would do their utmost to defend them should the island be attacked. They reported that there constantly had been, and continued to be, a proper quantity of powder and ball necessary for the artillery at every battery, and that these were so disposed as to be readily available on all occasions without confusion.

29․ The council stated that, should your settlements on the coast again come into your possession, which they sincerely hoped would soon be the case, they could not possibly spare any of your slaves who were stonelayers, as those craftsmen were at present extremely useful.

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we have not more than are necessary to carry on your

Works here

30. Our appointment of Mr. C. Mall & Davis

& David Slack, we are glad met with your

approbation, they beg leave to return your Honors

their most sincere & humble thanks, for this favour,

& to Assure you, that they will exert themselves

upon all Occasions in the Faithful discharge of their

Duty. The Worters Consments are hicoilts, & ye

enclosed in the Packets, we have directed him to

write to two Gentlemen in England to be his Suretyso

31. The Gen: is much Obliged to your Honrs. for

the permission you have been pleased to give him,

in appointing two Writers, to be his Assistants, if he

can find any of the Youths, belonging to the Island,

properly qualified to discharge that Duty, they

shall be Entertained accordingly

32. The Establishments you have been pleased

to put Fort Marlborough on, we take due notice of,

& shall address ourselves accordingly to the President

& Council there

33. We recd. by the Prince Henry only 25 of the

30 Recruits we desired the last Year, & as we have

lately discharged near 40 of your Military, whom

we could not prevail on to Relist, Added to which the

Casualties that have happened in the Year, reduces

our Garrison lower than we could wish, we shall want

for the Service of the next Year at least 40 Recruits

29․ The council continued that they did not have more slaves of that trade than were necessary to carry on your works on the island.

30․ The council stated that they were glad their appointment of Mr C. Mall, Davis, and David Slack had met with your approbation. They reported that those persons begged leave to return your Honors their most sincere and humble thanks for this favour and assured you that they would exert themselves on all occasions in the faithful discharge of their duty. The council noted that the writers’ consignments were enclosed in the packets and that they had directed him to write to two gentlemen in England to stand as his sureties.

31․ The council recorded that the general was much obliged to your Honors for the permission you had been pleased to grant him to appoint two writers as his assistants. They stated that, if he could find any youths belonging to the island who were properly qualified to discharge that duty, they would be entertained accordingly.

32․ The council stated that they had taken due notice of the establishments you had been pleased to set for Fort Marlborough and that they would address themselves accordingly to the president and council there.

33․ The council reported that they had received by the Prince Henry only 25 of the 30 recruits they had requested the previous year. They explained that, as they had lately discharged nearly 40 of your military whom they could not prevail upon to re-enlist, and in addition to the casualties that had occurred during the year, the strength of the garrison was reduced lower than they wished. They therefore stated that, for the service of the following year, they would require at least 40 recruits.

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which we hope you will be pleased to Send Us

34. As Capt. Oc Bealt Camp, appeared to Us worthy

of Compassion, we could not deny his Request of

proceeding to England, for the recovery of his Health,

on the Terms he desired, your approbation of the

permission we granted him, is a fresh instance of

your Honrs. benevolence, & will be of great Service

to his Widow & Family, we have paid his Executors

his Salary to the time of his Death, no extraordinary

Charge has occurred from this Furlough, & we shall

not make this a precedent, unless in Cases of

Absolute Necessity

35. As we thought Corporal Austins misfortunes was

really deplorable, & he acquainting Us, that he was

quite destitute of support, induced Us to recommend

him to your Honrs. compassion, at the same Time, we

were sensible, & make him so, that he was not entitled

to any Bounty from you, but must rely entirely on your

favour therefor

36. We shall demand your Man Slave Obrey

of Capt. Stoveton, upon the Arrival of the Ship Admiral

Watson, And are Obliged to you for returning Grower

to Us, by the Prince Henry. Although he is a serviceable

Mason, he is a very Artful, & Designing Fellow, &

as you thought proper to forgive him, he has not

been punished for this Desertion, we were in great

hopes he would have been sent hither in Irons, & to be

furnished, in order to deter others from the like Villainy

33․ It was hoped that these recruits would be sent.

34․ Captain Oc Bealt Camp was considered worthy of compassion, and his request to proceed to England for the recovery of his health, on the terms he desired, was therefore granted. Approval of the permission given was regarded as a further instance of benevolence, and as being of great service to his widow and family. His executors were paid his salary up to the time of his death. No extraordinary charge arose from this furlough, and it was resolved that it should not be made a precedent except in cases of absolute necessity.

35․ Corporal Austin’s misfortunes were considered truly deplorable, and his representation that he was entirely destitute of support led to his being recommended for compassion. At the same time, it was recognised and made clear to him that he was not entitled to any bounty, but must depend wholly upon favour.

36․ It was resolved that the man slave Obrey should be demanded from Captain Stoveton upon the arrival of the ship Admiral Watson. Obligation was acknowledged for the return of Grower by the Prince Henry. Although he was a serviceable mason, he was considered a very artful and designing individual. As it had been thought proper to forgive him, he was not punished for his desertion, though it had been hoped that he would have been sent back in irons and further punished, in order to deter others from similar misconduct.

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and we are fully convinced that impunity in these case rather helps to encrease, than cure the Evils. This Fellow we are informed, boasts of the indulgence he recd. from you, & shamelessly spreads among his Brethren, a Notion of the great liberty allowed in England, & says it was in his Option, whether to have returned to the Island or not, whats however the appearance to appear upon this first Landing, in a Dress very unbecoming a Slave, & which no Gentleman who have thoughts beneath them to wear, shewed but little remorse, for the Crime he had committed, & besides propagating the above Sentiment among the Blacks may have a very bad & pernicious Effect, & be the means to encourage Desertion more than ever. All methods that can be thought of, or suggested to prevent, this encreasing Evil constantly have been & are pursued, by the Govr. Sending Orders to the Gamoons for some Ddays before the Ships sail, Port liberty is stoped, Centinels placed at the Waterside, Guard Boats are likewise Ordered to row about the Bay, when a number of Ships are near Sailing, with strict Orders to suffer neither Soldier, or Black to pass, or go on board of them, without a Permit, during which Time the Rolls are called thrice a Day, & when either Soldier or Black are found missing, a Report thereof is instantly made, & immediately the Ships are searched & every other means taken that may best tend to a recovery. Yet notwithstanding all these precautions

It was further stated that impunity in cases of this kind was fully believed to increase rather than remedy such evils. It was reported that this individual boasted of the indulgence he had received, and openly spread among other slaves the notion that great liberty was allowed in England, asserting that it had been left to his own choice whether to return to the island or not. His appearance on first landing, dressed in a manner considered wholly unsuitable for a slave and improper even for a gentleman, was taken as showing little remorse for the offence committed. In addition to spreading these views among the enslaved population, his behaviour was considered likely to have a very bad and pernicious effect, and to encourage desertion more than ever.

It was noted that every method that could be devised or suggested to prevent this increasing problem had consistently been, and continued to be, put into practice by the governor. Orders were sent to the gamoones several days before ships were due to sail, port liberty was stopped, sentinels were placed along the waterside, and guard boats were ordered to row about the bay when a number of ships were near sailing, with strict instructions to allow neither soldiers nor slaves to pass or go on board without a permit. During these periods the rolls were called three times a day, and when either a soldier or a slave was found missing, a report was made immediately, ships were searched without delay, and every other measure was taken that might best tend to their recovery. Yet, notwithstanding all these precautions, the problem continued.

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many both Soldier, & Black, do get quite away. The

Captains are duly apprised of the Penalty they

expose themselves to, by carrying any Deserter from

The Island, & in Justice we cannot impute any

fault to them, in this respect, verly believing they

will Strole themselves on board, without the Captains

knowledge or Consent, & therefore enabled to do

oweing to the neglect of the Officers on board. The

most probable method we can think of to prevent

this Evil, & deter them from such Attempts, we

think would be the Sending back to the Island such

Offenders by the first opportunity. Agreeable to

your Orders, we have signified to the Inhabitants

to be careful in restraining their Blacks from

going off to the Shipping, & not to expect you

should put yourselves to the inconvenience arising

from the Desertion of them, as this is an Affair that

affects their Interest, we make no doubt of their

care herein, but with all the precautions they can

make, we of, some of them will Elope, when that

happens, we think it would be for the advantage

of the Island, if your Honors thought proper to direct

even these, to be returned, though at the Expence of

the Persons whose property they are.

37. Agreeable to your Orders, the Reverend

Mr. Newit Mackeline, & Mr. Robert Waddington

shall be accommodated in a suitable manner

with Bills & Quartrents, at the Companys

It was further observed that many, both soldiers and slaves, nevertheless succeeded in escaping entirely. The ship captains were duly apprised of the penalties to which they exposed themselves by carrying away any deserter from the island, and in justice no fault was imputed to them in this respect, it being firmly believed that deserters often concealed themselves on board without the captains’ knowledge or consent. This was considered to arise from neglect on the part of officers on board. The most probable method thought capable of preventing this evil and deterring such attempts was the sending back to the island of such offenders by the first available opportunity. In conformity with orders received, the inhabitants had been instructed to be careful in restraining their slaves from going off to the shipping, and not to expect that inconvenience arising from their desertion should be borne by others, as this was an affair that affected their own interests. No doubt was expressed as to their exercising care in this matter, but it was acknowledged that, notwithstanding all precautions, some would still abscond. When this occurred, it was considered advantageous for the island if directions were given that even these should be returned, although at the expense of the persons to whom they belonged.

37․ In conformity with the orders received, the Reverend Mister Newit Mackeline and Mister Robert Waddington were to be accommodated in a suitable manner with bills and quarter rents at the Company’s expense.

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Expencey, we have already Erected an Orequatory for them

in the Country, on as Poll they have judged most proper,

for the Purpose, & shall from time to Time, furnish

them with Materials, Workmen, or what ever else

the Service they are upon may require, as on their

return to England, will provide them a Passage upon

one of your Ships, & we have requested of Us, will advance

them the respectage Sums you mention. The other

two Gentlemen Mr. C. Maxon, & Saxon, upon their

arrivals here, shall be likewise accommodated as

you have directed.

38. A Copy of your Secretarys Letter last Year

to the President & Council of Fort St.George on this

Subject, we recd. we do not find there is any one

here, that can give those two Gentlemen any

assistance in their Astronomical Observations.

39. It gave Us a very sensible concern to

hear of the Death of our late Sovereign Ld.George

the Second of blessed Memory, the next Day after

this Advice reached Us, being the 17 of April, we in

Obedience to your Orders, Assisted by your Officers

Civil & Military, & severals of the Inhabitants, at the

head of your Garrison under Arms, Proclaimed

His Royal Majesty King George the Third, with

all due Solemnity, & every token of Loyalty &

Duty, Ordered a Discharge of the Artillery & small

Arms, & performed every Ceremony customary &

becoming so important an occasion, all our

It was stated that, at the Company’s expense, an oratory had already been erected for them in the countryside, on a site they themselves judged most suitable for that purpose. It was further resolved that they should from time to time be supplied with materials, workmen, or whatever else their service might require. It was also intended that, upon their return to England, a passage would be provided for them on one of the Company’s ships, and that the respective sums mentioned would be advanced to them as requested. It was further noted that the other two gentlemen, Mister C. Maxon and Mister Saxon, upon their arrival at the island, were likewise to be accommodated in the manner directed.

38․ It was reported that a copy of the Secretary’s letter of the previous year to the President and Council of Fort St George on this subject had been received. It was observed that there was no one on the island who could provide those two gentlemen with assistance in their astronomical observations.

39․ The council recorded its deep concern on hearing of the death of the late sovereign King George the Second. On the day following the receipt of this intelligence, being 17 April, and in obedience to the orders received, the governor and council, assisted by the civil and military officers and several of the inhabitants, proceeded at the head of the garrison under arms to proclaim His Royal Majesty King George the Third. This was done with all due solemnity and every demonstration of loyalty and duty. The artillery and small arms were ordered to be discharged, and all ceremonies customary and proper to so important an occasion were duly performed.

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the Proclamation is Entered in our Consultations of the

17 of April last.

40. By the Ajax we informed your Honrs. fully,

of the impressions the Enemy had unfortunately made,

on your several Settlements upon the West Coast.

41. The Stores received by the Prince Henry, being

reported to Us, by Mr. Bland, & the Storekeepers & Warehous

to be very bad, & of so soft a nature, that they will

scarce be a year year, we therefore desire you will be

pleased to Order those we now Indent for, to be of a

better sort.

42. We desire your Honors will be pleased to Send

Us, the fresh Pork we have Indented for, if it can be

procured, as it comes much Cheaper, & is as good as

the English.

43. We likewise request, you will be pleased

to Order, the Irons for the use of your Honor's Table,

to be sent in Sheets, as it does not keep so well in

Bars, & it is very difficult to get Smiths.

44. The two Vacant Commissions occasioned by

the Deaths of Capt.Tinos Beale, & Capt. R:Knowles,

we have filled up by appointing Dt. Henry Bagston

to the Command of the Third Company, in the room of Capt.

Beale, & Lieut. Rd. Beale, to Command the Fourth

Company in the Stead of Capt. R:Kennely. Lieutent

Samuel Price who was the Senior Lieut. we came to

a Resolution to set a side, as we have likewise done

Lt. R:Lufsons, both for the reasons inserted in our

The proclamation was recorded in the consultations of 17 April.

40․ It was stated that, by the ship Ajax, full information had already been provided concerning the advances that the enemy had unfortunately made against the Company’s several settlements on the west coast.

41․ It was reported by Mister Bland, together with the storekeepers and warehouse staff, that the stores received by the Prince Henry were of very poor quality and of so soft a nature that they were scarcely expected to last a year. It was therefore requested that the articles now indented for should be ordered to be of a better quality.

42․ It was requested that the fresh pork indented for should be sent, if it could be procured, as it was considerably cheaper and considered to be as good as that from England.

43․ It was further requested that the iron intended for the use of the Company’s table should be sent in sheets, as it did not keep well in bars and it was very difficult to obtain smiths.

44․ The two vacant commissions occasioned by the deaths of Captain Tinos Beale and Captain R. Knowles were filled by appointing Lieutenant Henry Bagston to the command of the Third Company in place of Captain Beale, and Lieutenant Richard Beale to command the Fourth Company in the stead of Captain R. Kennely. Lieutenant Samuel Price, being the senior lieutenant, was resolved to be set aside, as was also Lieutenant R. Lufson, both for the reasons entered in the consultations.

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Consultation of the 11 of May, to which we beg leave to

refer your Honors, & have put them upon half pay

The Vacancies by the Promotions of Lieutt. Bagsto

& Beale, we have filled up with the Serjeants John

Bridgewater, & Tho. Veech, and have likewise appointed

in the places of Lieuts. Price, Kirking, & Serjeants

Samuel Dewfountaen, Wm. Dolahins, the two last

are to receive but half Pay, until Vacancies happen

when they are, to be put upon whole Pay, by which

means your Honors will be at no extraordinary

Expence by these Promotions.

45. Captain Bt. Pigou applied to Us, to pay

L.100 into your Cash, which we have recd. & given

him Bills of Exchange, drawn on your Honrs. for

that Sum, payable to Mr. John Pigou, or Order, 90

Days after sight, dated the 25 instant.

46. Capt. Ry. Shippard, applied to Us to pay

L.200 into your Cash, which we have recd. & given

him Bills of Exchange, drawn on your Honrs. for

that Sum, payable to John Whyson, or Order, 90

Days after sight, dated the 25 instant.

47. Lieutt. Soloman S:Maurice & Maurice applied

to Us to pay L.50 into your Cash, which we have

recd. & given him Bills of Exchange, drawn on your

Honrs. for that Sum, payable to Mr.Gouriet St.

Maurice, or Order, 90 Days after sight, dated the

25 instant.

48. We have put on board the Ship Royal Duke,

It was further noted that reference was made to the consultation of 11 May, and that, for the reasons there recorded, those officers were placed on half pay. The vacancies created by the promotions of Lieutenant Henry Bagston and Lieutenant Richard Beale were filled by the appointment of the sergeants John Bridgewater and Thomas Veech. In addition, appointments were made in the places of Lieutenants Samuel Price and Kirking, and sergeants Samuel Dewfountaen and William Dolahins. The latter two were to receive only half pay until vacancies should occur, at which time they were to be placed on full pay, by which arrangement it was considered that no extraordinary expense would be incurred by these promotions.

45․ Captain Bt. Pigou applied to pay £100 into the Company’s cash. This sum was received, and bills of exchange were issued to him, drawn on the Company, payable to Mister John Pigou or order, ninety days after sight, dated 25 May.

46․ Captain Ry. Shippard applied to pay £200 into the Company’s cash. This sum was received, and bills of exchange were issued to him, drawn on the Company, payable to John Whyson or order, ninety days after sight, dated 25 May.

47․ Lieutenant Solomon Saint Maurice applied to pay £50 into the Company’s cash. This sum was received, and bills of exchange were issued to him, drawn on the Company, payable to Mister Gouriet Saint Maurice or order, ninety days after sight, dated 25 May.

48․ It was recorded that arrangements were made to put persons on board the ship Royal Duke in accordance with the matters discussed by the council.

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James Sollet, Saml. Austin, Wm. Jarvis, & Bt. Stlechman

four Discharged Soldiers to complete that Ships

Company. And as Capt. Newton, was in want of four

Men, to complete his, we have likewise put on board

the Houghton Wm. Golding, John Reside & Jacob

Burialt three other discharged Men

49. On the 24 instant arrived at Bencoley from

China, called the Sound Mulch Capt. Smith, burthen

about 600 Tons, carrys 20 Guns, & 95 & 69 Men, laden

with Tea & China Ware, bound to Copenhagen. The

Capt. informs Us, he left Canton the 20 of January

in company with the Queen of Denmark, & that

he has not seen a Ship since parting with her.

50. This waits on you, by your Ship Houghton

which sails in company with your Honrs. Ship

Royal Duke.

We are

St.Helena Honble Sir

to Sr. Your most Obedt. & most humble Servts.

20 May 1751.

Signd Wm.Hutchinson

John Hollowed

John Clark

Marhd Burling

48․ It was recorded that James Sollet, Samuel Austin, William Jarvis, and Bartholomew Stlechman, being four discharged soldiers, were put on board the ship Royal Duke in order to complete that ship’s company. As Captain Newton was likewise in want of four men to complete his complement, William Golding, John Reside, and Jacob Burialt, being three other discharged men, were also put on board the Houghton for that purpose.

49․ On 24 May a ship arrived at Bencoolen from China, named the Sound Mulch, Captain Smith commander, of about six hundred tons burthen, carrying twenty guns and ninety-five and sixty-nine men, laden with tea and china ware and bound for Copenhagen. The captain reported that he had left Canton on 20 January in company with the Queen of Denmark, and that he had not seen any ship since parting from her.

50․ This communication was sent by the ship Houghton, which sailed in company with the Company’s ship Royal Duke.

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List of the Honble Companys Packets from St.Helena of Ship Houghton, dated the 20 May 1751 viz.

No. 1. Govr. & Councils General Letter dated the 20 May 1751 2 Duplicate Do. (Do.) (Do.) dated the 13 Do. (Do.) 3 Consultations from the 2 March to the 25 of May Do. 4 First Receipt for the Packet of Snow London 5 Second Receipt for Do. of Ship Harcourt 6 List of Officers Servts. taken the 20 of May 1751 7 Schedule State of the Garrison 8 Muster Rolls of Do. 9 Govr. Letter to the Secret Committee 10 Abstract of the Cargo of Ship Royal Duke 11 Duplicate of Ship Prince Henrys Account 12 Do. of Snow London Do. 13 Ship Houghton Do. 14 Ship Royal Duke Do. 15 Cash Acct. from the 14 to the 20 May 1751 16 Duplicate Do. from the 25 to the 28 Feby. Do. 17 Do. for the month of March Do. 18 Do. for the month of April Do. 19 Do. from the 1st to the 13 May Do. 20 List of Garrison Stores recd. the 31 March Do. 21 Do. of Artillery Stores from the 11 Sepr. 1750 to the 31 March 1751 22 Do. of Stores recd. in the Honble Companys Ware Houses the 31 March 1751

This packet comprised the following documents sent from St Helena by the ship Houghton, dated 20 May 1751.

1. The general letter from the governor and council, dated 20 May 1751.
2. A duplicate of the general letter from the governor and council, dated 13 May 1751.
3. The consultations of council covering the period from 2 March to 25 May 1751.
4. The first receipt for the packet sent by the snow London.
5. The second receipt for the packet sent by the ship Harcourt.
6. A list of officers and servants taken on 20 May 1751.
7. A schedule showing the state of the garrison.
8. Muster rolls of the garrison.
9. A letter from the governor to the Secret Committee.
10. An abstract of the cargo of the ship Royal Duke.
11. A duplicate of the account of the ship Prince Henry.
12. A duplicate of the account of the snow London.
13. The account of the ship Houghton.
14. The account of the ship Royal Duke.
15. A cash account covering the period from 14 May to 20 May 1751.
16. A duplicate cash account covering the period from 25 February to 28 February 1751.
17. A cash account for the month of March 1751.
18. A cash account for the month of April 1751.
19. A cash account covering the period from 1 May to 13 May 1751.
20. A list of garrison stores received on 31 March 1751.
21. A list of artillery stores covering the period from 11 September 1750 to 31 March 1751.
22. A list of stores received into the Honourable Company’s warehouses on 31 March 1751.

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No. 23 Indent of Stores wanted for the Service of the Year 1752 24 Do. of Medicines wanted for Do. 25 Duplicate List of the Packets of Snow London 26 List of 7 Discharged Soldier 27 Covenants of Mr. David Sleveks wooster

To the Honble Your Honble Sir

1. Our last Advices to your Honors, went by the Ship Houghton, which Sailed from hence on the 20 of May in company with your Ship Royal Duke

2. On the 6 instant, arrived the Merchant Ship Portland, by thats opportunity, we received a Packet from your Honors, which we opened & read, and agreeable thereto, have given Publick Notice to all Persons upon the Island, of your Orders relative to their leaving it, which shall be punctually complied with

3. The next Day arrived the Fly Cutter, when we likewise received a Packet containing our Honors Letters to Us, by the Prince Henry of Portland Duplicate of

4. The following Ships have arrived from India since our last Advise to You viz. The Norfolk 21 May Valentine 6 June from China Pocock Oxford

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Latham 11 June from Bengal Oxford 13 Do. from Madras

5. We are sorry to acquaint You, of the unfortunate loss of your Ship Suffers, which happened on the 20 of January last, at Night, among the Philippine Islands, but luckily all the People were saved.

6. Capt. Holland acquaints Us, thats he left Bengal the 9 of March, & that the Lorde Anson was to leave that place about a fortnight after, for Europe, Capt. Slindes likewise acquaints Us, he sailed from Madras the 9 of March, & that it was said the Falmouth, Prince Edward, & Admiral Watson, were to be dispatched soon after for England, all with French Prisoners. We are also informed that the Majesties Ship Chatham & all your Honors Bombay Ships were arrived in December last, upon the coast of Malabar, & that the Crown that were on board those Ships, had taken the French Settlements of Mahie, about the middle of February

7. The Passengers on board the before mentioned Ships, are as follows viz. Senr. Francisco Drudtaya Senr. Francisco Manuel Portuguess on board Mr.Hamed the Laforth Mr.Sumption on board the Valentine Capt. Newton Mr.Wmr.Lambe on board the Pocock Monsr. Le Stolle a Prisoner Don Ebastation al Pamaad on board the Oxford

23. An indent of stores required for the service of the year 1752.

24. An indent of medicines required for the same service.

25. A duplicate list of the packets sent by the snow *London*.

26. A list of seven discharged soldiers.

27. The covenants of Mister David Sleveks Wooster.

1․ It was recorded that the last advices to the Company had been sent by the ship *Houghton*, which sailed from St Helena on 20 May in company with the Company’s ship *Royal Duke*.

2․ It was reported that, on 6 June, the merchant ship *Portland* arrived. By that opportunity a packet was received from the Company, which was opened and read, and in conformity with its contents public notice was given to all persons on the island of the orders concerning their departure. It was resolved that these orders would be punctually complied with.

3․ It was further recorded that, on the following day, the cutter *Fly* arrived, by which another packet was received containing letters from the Company, sent by the *Prince Henry* of *Portland*, being duplicates.

4․ It was noted that, since the last advice sent to the Company, the following ships had arrived from India: the *Norfolk* on 21 May, the *Valentine* on 6 June from China, and the *Oxford* under Captain Pocock.

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Mr.Wmr.Walter Mr.Fallerton Mr.Barton Capt.Gould on board the Latham Mr.Dmr.Doll Mr.Weatherburn Capt.Hinlop Capt.Jones Mr.Melton Mr.Bowney Mr.Mr.Lachlein on board the Pocock General Lally Monsr. Chappronay Seagold Guillemain Prisoners Poultry French Rocked

8. Some of your Ships being in want of Salt Provisions, we were under a necessity of supplying them; And if those Ships should be dispatched from Madras with Prisoners, as it is reported, they consequently will be in great want. We therefore request you will be pleased to send Us, as soon as possible, some Salt Provisions; We shall require at least 100 Tarchsmor then what we Indented for by the Houghton. We have also added to the Duplicate of our Indent some materials for the Snow Nereings by the Cutter, with a few

The following persons were listed as passengers. On board the Latham were Mister Walter, Mister Fallerton, Mister Barton, and Captain Gould. On board the Pocock were Mister Doll, Mister Weatherburn, Captain Hinlop, Captain Jones, Mister Melton, Mister Bowney, and Mister Lachlein. Also on board were General Lally, Monsieur Chappronay, Seagold, and Guillemain, described as prisoners, together with poultry and French goods.

8․ It was reported that, as some of the Company’s ships were in want of salt provisions, it had been found necessary to supply them. It was further noted that, should those ships be dispatched from Madras with prisoners, as had been reported, they would consequently be in still greater need. It was therefore requested that salt provisions should be sent as soon as possible, in a quantity at least one hundred tarshmors more than had been indented for by the Houghton. It was also noted that additional materials had been added to the duplicate indent for the snow Nereings, to be sent by the cutter, together with a few further necessary items.

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few other Articles we found we should want the next Year, which we hope you will be pleased to Send Us

9. Captain John Clark acquainting Us that he purposed to leave the Island the next Season, & go to England, on Account of his indifferent State of Health, we therefore take this opportunity of informing your Honors with his intention

10. Edmond Smith Gardener, having resigned your Service: We gave Capt. Hobbet a permission to receive him on board, & carry him to England, he having Signed an instrument, in Writeing, that he will not demand any Wages for his Passage Home, which we transmit you herewith

11. Mr. Robert Waddington acquainting Us, that he intended to proceed to England in the Ship Oxford, we thereupon gave Capt.Webber an Order to receive him on board, & to provide him with proper accommodation & diet at his Table, at your Honors Expence

12. We have granted Bills of Exchange drawn on your Honors for the following Sums viz.

13. To John Shathous Esqr. One Set for L.50 payable to himself, or Order, 90 Days after sight dated the 22 instant.

14. To Capt. Thos.Clark One Set for L.20.10 payable to Maurice Bengtherell, or Order, 90 Days after sight, dated the 20 instant.

15. To Mr. Matts. Curling, One Set for L.400 payable to John Magenon Esqr. or Order, 90 Days after sight, dated the 22 instant

It was recorded that a number of passengers were on board the ships. On board the Latham were Mister Walter, Mister Fallerton, Mister Barton, and Captain Gould. On board the Pocock were Mister Doll, Mister Weatherburn, Captain Hinlop, Captain Jones, Mister Melton, Mister Bowney, and Mister Lachlein. Also on board were General Lally, Monsieur Chappronay, Seagold, and Guillemain, described as prisoners, together with poultry and French goods.

8․ It was stated that, as some of the Company’s ships were in want of salt provisions, it had been necessary to supply them. It was further noted that, if those ships should be dispatched from Madras with prisoners, as had been reported, they would consequently be in still greater need. It was therefore requested that salt provisions should be sent as soon as possible, and that at least one hundred tarshmors more would be required than had been indented for by the Houghton. It was also recorded that a few other articles, found likely to be needed in the coming year, had been added to the duplicate indent, and it was hoped these would be sent.

9․ It was reported that Captain John Clark had informed the council of his intention to leave the island in the next season and proceed to England on account of the indifferent state of his health, and this intention was therefore communicated.

10․ It was noted that Edmond Smith, gardener, had resigned the Company’s service. Permission was given to Captain Hobbet to receive him on board and carry him to England, he having signed an instrument in writing that he would not demand any wages for his passage home, which was transmitted.

11․ It was recorded that Mister Robert Waddington had informed the council of his intention to proceed to England in the ship Oxford. An order was therefore given to Captain Webber to receive him on board and to provide him with proper accommodation and diet at the Company’s expense.

12․ It was recorded that bills of exchange had been granted, drawn on the Company, for the following sums.

13․ To John Shathous, Esquire, one set for £50 0s 0d, payable to himself or order, ninety days after sight, dated 22 May.

14․ To Captain Thomas Clark, one set for £20 10s 0d, payable to Maurice Bengtherell or order, ninety days after sight, dated 20 May.

15․ To Mister Matts Curling, one set for £400 0s 0d, payable to John Magenon, Esquire, or order, ninety days after sight, dated 22 May.

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16. To Mr.Mark Dugen One Set for L.200 payable to Mr.R.Randall, or Order, 90 Days after sight, dated this Day

17. To Capt. James Moffatt One Set, for L.500 payable to Andrew Moffatt Esqr. or Order, 90 Days after sight, dated this Day

18. Capt.Arbuthnot of His Majestys Ship Portland & his Juniors, applied to Us for £102.19.2 which Sum we have advanced them; & taken Bills of Exchange drawn upon the Commifsioners for Victualling His Majestys Navy, payable to your Honors, or Order, 90 Days after sight, dated this Day, the first Bill & Letter of Advice goes herewith

19. Lieutenant General Lally likewise applied to Us for L.100, which Sum we have advanced him, & taken Bills of Exchange, drawn on the French East India Company in Paris, payable to your Honors, or Order, 30 Days after sight, dated the 21 instant, the first Bill & Letter of Advice goes herewith

20. The following French Officers applied to Us for Subsistences the time of their being here, we have therefore advanced them the respective Sums viz. To Ml.Lionel Guillemens for 16 Days at 6 Rupees p.Day p.Rs. To Capt.Nagle for 16 Days at 4 Rupees p.Day p.R. To Capt.Chappronay for 16 Days at 4 Rupees p.Day p.R. To Mr.Dellis Seavool for 16 days at 4 Rupees p.Day p.R. To Mr.French Chaplaing for 16 Days at 4 Rupees p.Day p.R. To Ml.Larlots for 220 days at 3 Rupees p.Day p.Rs. £15

16․ It was recorded that Mister Mark Dugen was granted one set of bills of exchange for £200 0s 0d, payable to Mister R. Randall or order, ninety days after sight, dated that day.

17․ It was recorded that Captain James Moffatt was granted one set of bills of exchange for £500 0s 0d, payable to Andrew Moffatt, Esquire, or order, ninety days after sight, dated that day.

18․ It was recorded that Captain Arbuthnot of His Majesty’s Ship Portland, together with his junior officers, applied for £102 19s 2d. This sum was advanced, and bills of exchange were taken, drawn upon the Commissioners for Victualling His Majesty’s Navy, payable to the Company or order, ninety days after sight, dated that day. The first bill and letter of advice were transmitted.

19․ It was recorded that Lieutenant General Lally likewise applied for £100 0s 0d. This sum was advanced, and bills of exchange were taken, drawn on the French East India Company in Paris, payable to the Company or order, thirty days after sight, dated 21 May. The first bill and letter of advice were transmitted.

20․ It was recorded that the following French officers applied for subsistence for the time of their stay on the island, and that the respective sums were advanced accordingly: to Monsieur Lionel Guillemens for sixteen days at six rupees per day; to Captain Nagle for sixteen days at four rupees per day; to Captain Chappronay for sixteen days at four rupees per day; to Mister Dellis Seavool for sixteen days at four rupees per day; to the French chaplain for sixteen days at four rupees per day; and to Monsieur Larlots for two hundred and twenty days at three rupees per day, amounting in total to £15 0s 0d.

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21. We have the pleasure to acquaint You, that we have had a good Summer Season, & that your Honors Pastores & Plantations are at present in good Condition

We are

Honble Sir Your most Obedt. & most humble Servants St.Helena to Sr. Signd Wm. Hutchinson 29 June 1751 Jno Shothowe John Clark Mr. Burling

List of the Honorable Companys Packet from No. Helena of the Majestic Ship Portland dated the 29 June 1751 viz.

No. 1. Govr. & Councils General Lr. dated the 29 June 1751

2 Duplicate Do. (Do.) dated the 20 May (Do.)

3 Consultations from the 1 to the 29 June (Do.)

4 Duplicate Do. from the 2 March to the 25 May (Do.)

5 First Receipts for the Packets of Ship Houghton

6 Second Receipts for Do. of Snow London

7 List of Officers Servants taken the 29 June 1751

8 Schedule State of the Garrison

9 Govr. Letter to the Secret Committee

10 Abstract of the Cargoes of Ships Norfolk, Valentine, Pocock, Oxford, Latham, & Oxford

21․ It was reported with satisfaction that a good summer season had been experienced, and that the Company’s pastures and plantations were at that time in good condition.

This packet from St Helena was sent by His Majesty’s ship Portland, dated 29 June 1751, and contained the following documents.

1․ The general letter from the governor and council, dated 29 June 1751.

2․ A duplicate of the general letter from the governor and council, dated 20 May 1751.

3․ The consultations of council from 1 June to 29 June 1751.

4․ A duplicate of the consultations from 2 March to 25 May 1751.

5․ The first receipts for the packets sent by the ship Houghton.

6․ The second receipts for the packets sent by the snow London.

7․ A list of officers and servants taken on 29 June 1751.

8․ A schedule showing the state of the garrison.

9․ A letter from the governor to the Secret Committee.

10․ An abstract of the cargoes of the ships Norfolk, Valentine, Pocock, Oxford, Latham, and Oxford.

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No. 11 Time of the Arrival of Ships Boalt at Bombay

12 Duplicate of Ship Houghtons Acct.

13 Do. of Ship Royal Duke Do.

14 Ship Valentine Do.

15 Do. Pocock Do.

16 Do. Norfolk Do.

17 Do. Latham Do.

18 Do. Oxford Do.

19 Do. Valentines Do.

20 Duplicate Cash Acct. from the 14 to the 20 May 1751

21 Cash Acct. from the 19th to the 21 May (Do.)

22 Do. from the 1st to the 29 June (Do.)

23 Instrument in Writing from Edmr. Smith Gardener

24 Duplicate List of Garrison Stores recd. the 31 March 1751

25 Do. List of Artillery Stores from the 11 of April 1750 to the 31 March 1751

26 Do. List of Stores recd. in the Honble Companys Warehouses the 31 March 1751

27 Do. Indents of Stores wanted for the Service of the Year 1752, with an Additional Indent

28 Do. Indents of Medicines wanted for the Year 1752

29 Do. List of the Packets of Ship Houghton

30 List of Diamageg & ca

31 Capt. Arbuthnots first Bill of Exchange & Advice

32 Lt.Generals Lallys Do. & Do.

33 French officers Receipts for £15-6

11․ A statement showing the time of the arrival of ships’ boats at Bombay.

12․ A duplicate of the account of the ship Houghton.

13․ A duplicate of the account of the ship Royal Duke.

14․ The account of the ship Valentine.

15․ The account of the ship Pocock.

16․ The account of the ship Norfolk.

17․ The account of the ship Latham.

18․ The account of the ship Oxford.

19․ A duplicate of the account of the ship Valentine.

20․ A duplicate cash account covering the period from 14 May to 20 May 1751.

21․ A cash account covering the period from 19 May to 21 May 1751.

22․ A cash account covering the period from 1 June to 29 June 1751.

23․ An instrument in writing from Edmond Smith, gardener.

24․ A duplicate list of garrison stores received on 31 March 1751.

25․ A duplicate list of artillery stores from 11 April 1750 to 31 March 1751.

26․ A duplicate list of stores received into the Honourable Company’s warehouses on 31 March 1751.

27․ A duplicate indent of stores required for the service of the year 1752, together with an additional indent.

28․ A duplicate indent of medicines required for the year 1752.

29․ A duplicate list of the packets of the ship Houghton.

30․ A list of damaged goods and related matters.

31․ Captain Arbuthnot’s first bill of exchange and letter of advice.

32․ Lieutenant General Lally’s first bill of exchange and letter of advice.

33․ Receipts from French officers for £15 6s 0d.

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To the Honble Your

Honble Sir

1. We Addressed you last under date of the 29

of June, by His Majestys Ship Portland, which

sailed from hence, in company with six of your

Honrs. Ships

2. On the 2 instant, arrived your Ship Lord

Anson, from Bengal, which Place Capt. Eruck

informs Us, he left the 23 of March

3. The 6 instant arrived His Majestys Ship

Lion, by which oppert. we recd. advices from your

Honrs. dated the 14 Janry. last, which we opened

& read

4. On the 21 of this Month, likewise arrived

a Dutch Ship from Batavia, called the Vreedentopp

Capt.Biekers, Burthen about 600 Tons, carrys 26

Guns, & 100 Men, laden with Sugar, Coffee, Pepper,

Tin, & Sappanwood, bound to Rotterdam

5. Mr. Garden a Passenger on board the

Dutch Ship, acquaints Us, that the Loernavon and

Woorwock, arrived at Batavia in Novr. last, & left

that Place the begint. of Janry. foll.d for China, he

likewise tells Us, the Warwicks Mast, was

much damaged by Lightning off the South East

1․ It was recorded that the previous address to the Company had been sent under the date of 29 June by His Majesty’s ship Portland, which sailed from St Helena in company with six of the Company’s ships.

2․ It was reported that, on 2 July, the Company’s ship Lord Anson arrived from Bengal. Captain Eruck stated that he had departed from Bengal on 23 March.

3․ It was further noted that, on 6 July, His Majesty’s ship Lion arrived, by which advices from the Company dated 14 January were received, opened, and read.

4․ It was recorded that, on 21 July, a Dutch ship from Batavia arrived, named the Vreedentopp, Captain Biekers commander, of about six hundred tons burthen, carrying twenty-six guns and one hundred men, laden with sugar, coffee, pepper, tin, and sappanwood, and bound for Rotterdam.

5․ It was reported by Mister Garden, a passenger on board the Dutch ship, that the Loernavon and Woorwock had arrived at Batavia in November of the previous year and had departed from there at the beginning of January following for China. He further stated that the mast of the Warwick had been badly damaged by lightning off the south-east coast.

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of Java, & that Capt. Hutchinson told him, that Capt.

Baddiron of Ship Prince Augustus who was in

company with them, at the time the Warwick met

with the Accident, left him while he was waiting

for that Ship coming up: he further informs Us,

that the Norfolk, & Duke of Richmond, were to sail

from Malacoa the 20 of April for China, Mr.Garden

likewise acquaints Us, that the French entirely destroys

Fort Marlbo. & burnt all the Houses & on the Place &

left it some time in April last, carrying away several

of the Chinese with their Wives & Children, in order to make

them Slaves, their behaviours were so very Cruel at

Bencoolen, that the Mallay harrased them all they

could, during their stay there, & the French being

extremely Sickly, were Obliged to Abandon the Place,

& sailed with five small Vessels, & two other Ships, for

Mauritius, one of the Pilots meeting with some bad

Weather, was Obliged to put into Batavia in April

last, where she was refetting & intended as soon as she

was in a condition to proceed to Mauritius

6. The Passengers upon the Lord Anson, are

Mr. Holwell, & Mr. Rigofinch & Wife

7. Mr. Mary Smith, Wife of Mr.Dachon Smith

late of Bencoolen, who died the 20 of May last, havng

left several Effects, We ordered them to be Sold, & after

paying her respective Debts, recd. the Balance of

her Account amount.d to L.124.5.7 into your Honrs.

Cash, which we have wrote off to Acct. Current,

5․ It was further reported that Captain Hutchinson had informed Mister Garden that Captain Baddiron of the ship Prince Augustus, who had been in company with them at the time the Warwick met with the accident, left him while he was waiting for that ship to come up. Mister Garden also stated that the Norfolk and the Duke of Richmond were to sail from Malacca on 20 April for China. He further reported that the French had entirely destroyed Fort Marlborough, had burnt all the houses on the place, and had departed from there sometime in April, carrying away several Chinese together with their wives and children in order to make them slaves. Their behaviour at Bencoolen was described as extremely cruel, and it was said that the Malay inhabitants harassed them as much as they were able during their stay. The French were reported to have become extremely sickly and were obliged to abandon the place, sailing with five small vessels and two other ships for Mauritius. One of the pilots, having encountered bad weather, was obliged to put into Batavia in April, where the vessel was being refitted and was intended to proceed to Mauritius as soon as she was in condition to do so.

6․ It was recorded that the passengers on board the Lord Anson were Mister Holwell, and Mister Rigofinch together with his wife.

7․ It was reported that Mary Smith, the wife of Mister Dachon Smith, formerly of Bencoolen, who died on 20 May, had left several effects. These were ordered to be sold, and after payment of her respective debts, the balance of her account, amounting to £124 5s 7d, was received into the Company’s cash and carried to current account.

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Someone Besides the above Balance, there is a thing

at with eight Diamond Sparks, from not knowing

the real value thereof, we did not dispose of it, but

kept it until we should hear from her Husband

8. We have granted first Set of Bills drawn on

your Honrs. one to Capt.D.John Clark for L.1000 payable

to Capt.Tho.Tronelk, or Order, 90 Days afternight

dated the 20 instant. One set to Mr.Tho.Allangham

for L.377.17.3 payable to Mr.George Heringham, or

Order, 90 Days after sight, dated the 23 instant, &

another Set to two Jonct.Donefon for L.107 payable

to Capt.George Cuming, or Order, 90 Days after sight

dated likewise the 10 instant, One Set to Charles

Hutchinson Esqr. for L.200 payable to Saml.Stough

Esq, or Order, 90 Days after sight, dated the 27 instant,

And one Set to Mr.Wrookt for L.100 payable to

Mr.Tho.Leep, or Order, 90 Days after sight, dated

also the 27 instant.

9. For this Month past, inflammation & Flus

have raged so much in the Island, that most of the

Inhabitants have been Afflicted with that disorder,

in a very severe manner, but it has not proved

Mortal to many, two of your Honrs. Men Slaves

have died with it, & many other of your Blacks

have been ill, but the violence of the disorder we

hope is abated, as most People that laboured

under it, are at present Better

7․ It was further noted that, besides the balance already mentioned, there remained an item set with eight diamond sparks. As the real value of this item was not known, it was not disposed of, but was retained until further instructions might be received from her husband.

8․ It was recorded that first sets of bills of exchange were granted as follows: one set to Captain John Clark for £1,000 0s 0d, payable to Captain Thomas Tronelk or order, ninety days after sight, dated 20 July; one set to Mister Thomas Allangham for £377 17s 3d, payable to Mister George Heringham or order, ninety days after sight, dated 23 July; one set to Johnct Donefon for £107 0s 0d, payable to Captain George Cuming or order, ninety days after sight, dated 10 July; one set to Charles Hutchinson, Esquire, for £200 0s 0d, payable to Samuel Stough, Esquire, or order, ninety days after sight, dated 27 July; and one set to Mister Wrookt for £100 0s 0d, payable to Mister Thomas Leep or order, ninety days after sight, dated 27 July.

9․ It was reported that, during the preceding month, inflammations and fluxes had prevailed so widely on the island that most of the inhabitants had been afflicted by the disorder in a very severe manner. It was noted, however, that it had not proved fatal to many. Two of the Company’s male slaves were stated to have died from it, and many others among the enslaved population had been ill, but it was hoped that the violence of the disorder had abated, as most of those affected were then recovering.

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10. Two Invalid Soldiers from Bengal, both of

the name of Wm.Browne, were left here one of the

Ship Latham. We have been under a necessity to

support them, one at 6 the other who is Sick in the

Hospital, at 4 p.Day, the former we have put on

board the Lord Anson, his expences here for 28 Days

amounts to £4.11s. He has Signed an instrument

in Writeing, that he will not demand any Wages for

his Voyage Home: The other who has a Dysentery

upon him, is not in a condition to go by this conveyance,

but as soon as he is recovered, & an opport. offers we

will Send him to England & acquaint your Honors

with the Expence You have been at upon his Acct.

We have paid Capt.Eruck £5 for the Passage

of the Said Wm.Browne, both with Sums, with what

money we may advance upon Account of the other,

we suppose will be repaid to your Honrs. either by

the Capt. or Owners, of the Ship Latham. For these

reasons We hope you will be pleased to give the

Commifsioners Orders, with respect to this circumstance

to prevent the inconveniences & extraordinary Expence

to your Honrs. occasioned from the Neglect of their

not sending them on board some time before they

sail.

11. We have likewise given Capt.Eruck a permission

to receive on board his Ship Wm.Berry a discharged

Soldier, & have also put on board the Lord Anson, Tho.

Humphrys, Wm.Crosby, Saml.Wright, & Saml.Chace,

10․ It was reported that two invalid soldiers from Bengal, both named William Browne, had been left on the island, one from the ship Latham. It was stated that it had been necessary to support them, one at 6 shillings per day and the other, who was sick in the hospital, at 4 shillings per day. The former was put on board the ship Lord Anson, and his expenses on the island for 28 days amounted to £4 11s 0d. He had signed an instrument in writing declaring that he would not demand any wages for his voyage home. The other, who was suffering from dysentery, was reported to be unfit to depart by that conveyance, but it was stated that, as soon as he recovered and an opportunity offered, he would be sent to England and the Company informed of the expense incurred on his account. It was further noted that £5 had been paid to Captain Eruck for the passage of the said William Browne. It was stated that both this sum and any further money advanced on account of the other soldier were expected to be repaid to the Company either by the captain or the owners of the ship Latham. For these reasons it was expressed that orders should be given to the Commissioners in this matter, in order to prevent the inconvenience and extraordinary expense to the Company arising from neglect in not sending such persons on board in due time before the ships sailed.

11․ It was recorded that permission was likewise given to Captain Eruck to receive on board his ship William Berry, a discharged soldier. It was also stated that Thomas Humphrys, William Crosby, Samuel Wright, and Samuel Chace were put on board the ship Lord Anson.

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four Invalids, & have paid the Capt. £20 for their

Passages, they have all signed an instrument in

Writing, that they will not demand any Wages for

their Voyage Home, which We transmit herewith,

together with the Surgeons Certificate, in respect

to the Invalids. John Belkns another discharged

Sold. has intend on board of His Majestys Ship

Lion

12. Capt.R:Simes of His Majestys Ship Lion, &

his Juniors, applied to Us for L.112.6.8 which Sum

We have advanced them, & taken Bills of Exchange

drawn upon the Commissioners for Victualling His

Majestys Navy, payable to your Honrs. or Order, 30

Days after sight, dated the 25 instant, the first

Bill, & Letter of Advice goes herewith

13. The distemper among the Cattle, We informed

your Honrs. of last Year, of the Graws still continues,

but has not raged in that violent manner, only afew

have since died, & we flatter ourselves by changing

their food, & bleeding them plentifully, as soon as the

disorder appears, that we shall be able to preserve

most of them, thats are Seized with it, as we are in no

wants of Slortage, & by the present appearances of

the Weather, have a prospect of a good Winter Season

St.Helena We are

to Sr. Honble Sir

30 July 1751 Your most Obedt. & most humbly Servts.

Signd Wm. Hutchinson

John Skottowe

68 John Clark

Md.Erling

11․ It was further recorded that the four men were invalids, and that £20 was paid to the captain for their passages. All had signed an instrument in writing declaring that they would not demand any wages for their voyage home. This instrument, together with the surgeon’s certificate relating to the invalids, was transmitted. It was also noted that John Belkins, another discharged soldier, had gone on board His Majesty’s ship Lion.

12․ It was reported that Captain Richard Simes of His Majesty’s ship Lion, together with his junior officers, applied for £112 6s 8d. This sum was advanced, and bills of exchange were taken, drawn upon the Commissioners for Victualling His Majesty’s Navy, payable to the Company or order, thirty days after sight, dated 25 July. The first bill and letter of advice were transmitted.

13․ It was stated that the distemper among the cattle, previously reported, continued in the grass, but had not prevailed with the same violence. Only a few had died since, and confidence was expressed that, by changing their food and bleeding them plentifully as soon as the disorder appeared, most of those seized with it would be preserved. It was further noted that there was no present want of slaughter cattle and that, from the current appearance of the weather, there was a prospect of a good winter season.

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List of the Honble Companys Packets from St.Helena of His Majestys Ship Lion, dated the 30 July 1751 viz.

No. 1. Govr. & Councils General Letter dated 30 July 1751

2 Duplicate Do. (Do.) dated 29 June (Do.)

3 Consultations from 6 to the 21 July (Do.)

4 Duplicate Do. from 1 to the 29 June (Do.)

5 First Receipts for the Packets of His Majestys Ship Portland

6 First Do. for a Paper Do. of Ship Oxford

7 Second Do. for the Packet of Ship Houghton

8 List of Officers Servants taken 30 July 1751

9 Schedule State of the Garrison

10 Muster Rolls of (Do.)

11 Govr. Letter to the Secret Committee

12 Abstracts of the Cargo of Ship Lord Anson

13 Duplicate of Ship Suffolks Acct.

14 Do. Pocock Do.

15 Do. Oxford Do.

16 Do. Latham Do.

17 Do. Onslow Do.

18 Do. Valentine Do.

19 Cash Acct. for the 30 June 1751

20 Do. from 1 to the 30 July (Do.)

21 Duplicate Cash Acct. from 27 to the 27 May Do.

22 Do. (Do.) from 1 to the 29 June Do.

23 Do. List of the Packets of His Majestys Ship Portland

24 Do. Additional Indent wanted for the Service of the Year 1752

This packet from St Helena was sent by His Majesty’s ship Lion, dated 30 July 1751, and consisted of the following documents.

1․ The general letter from the governor and council, dated 30 July 1751.

2․ A duplicate of the general letter from the governor and council, dated 29 June 1751.

3․ The consultations of council from 6 July to 21 July 1751.

4․ A duplicate of the consultations from 1 June to 29 June 1751.

5․ The first receipts for the packets sent by His Majesty’s ship Portland.

6․ The first receipt for a paper packet sent by the ship Oxford.

7․ The second receipt for the packet sent by the ship Houghton.

8․ A list of officers and servants taken on 30 July 1751.

9․ A schedule showing the state of the garrison.

10․ The muster rolls of the garrison.

11․ A letter from the governor to the Secret Committee.

12․ Abstracts of the cargo of the ship Lord Anson.

13․ A duplicate of the account of the ship Suffolk.

14․ A duplicate of the account of the ship Pocock.

15․ A duplicate of the account of the ship Oxford.

16․ A duplicate of the account of the ship Latham.

17․ A duplicate of the account of the ship Onslow.

18․ A duplicate of the account of the ship Valentine.

19․ A cash account for 30 June 1751.

20․ A cash account covering the period from 1 July to 30 July 1751.

21․ A duplicate cash account covering the period from 27 April to 27 May 1751.

22․ A duplicate cash account covering the period from 1 June to 29 June 1751.

23․ A duplicate list of the packets sent by His Majesty’s ship Portland.

24․ An additional indent of stores required for the service of the year 1752.

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No. 25 Capt.Arbuthnots Second Bills of Exchange & Advices

26 Lieut.General Lallys Do. & Do.

27 Duplicate French Officers Receipt for £47-6

28 Ship Lord Ansons Acct.

29 Duplicate List of Damages & ca.

30 Surgeons Certificate of 4 Invalid Soldiers

31 Instruments in Writing from 5 discharged Sogg.tion

Brown Invalids from Bengal

32 List of 2 Discharged Soldiers & 4 Invalids

33 Capt.R.Simes Receipt for £25

34 Capt.R.Simes first Bills of Exchange & Letter of Advice

To the Honble Your

Honble Sir

1. Our last Letter to You, went by His Majestys

Ship Lion, which left this Place the 30 of July, in

company with your Honrs. Ship Lord Anson

2. On the 2d of last Month, arrived the Vrymont

& Tambon, the 19 the Lord Mansfield, & the 20 the

from Bombay Sandwich, Capt.Lauder acquainted Us, the Lord sailed

from thence for Suratt & Mocha, the 18 of Septr. & the

Neptune from Sullucberry for China the 15 of May, and

that he left the Sutors there, which was to proceed for

Madras a few Days after. He likewise tells Us, that

the Fleet under the Command of Admiral Stevens

69 were all arrived at Bombay, before he left it,

25․ The council listed Captain Arbuthnot’s second bills of exchange together with the accompanying letters of advice.

26․ The council listed Lieutenant General Lally’s bills of exchange together with the accompanying letters of advice.

27․ The council listed a duplicate of the French officers’ receipts amounting to £47 6s 0d.

28․ The council listed the account of the ship Lord Anson.

29․ The council listed a duplicate schedule of damages and related matters.

30․ The council listed the surgeon’s certificates relating to four invalid soldiers.

31․ The council listed the instruments in writing from five discharged soldiers, together with documentation relating to invalids named Brown from Bengal.

32․ The council listed a return of two discharged soldiers and four invalids.

33․ The council listed Captain Richard Simes’s receipt for £25 0s 0d.

34․ The council listed Captain Richard Simes’s first bills of exchange together with the letter of advice.

1․ It was recorded that the previous letter to the Company had been sent by His Majesty’s ship Lion, which departed from St Helena on 30 July in company with the Company’s ship Lord Anson.

2․ It was reported that, on 2 September, the ships Vrymont and Tambon arrived, followed on 19 September by the Lord Mansfield, and on 20 September by the Sandwich from Bombay. Captain Lauder informed the council that the Lord had sailed from Bombay for Surat and Mocha on 18 September, that the Neptune had sailed from Sulucberry for China on 15 May, and that the Sutors had been left there and was to proceed for Madras a few days later. He further reported that the fleet under the command of Admiral Stevens had all arrived at Bombay before his departure.

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3. We are also informed, that Siegperci, had been

Beseged by the Maharattas for three Years, but by

finding they could not take the Place, applied to the

Portogueze for some Troops, which they readily

granted, & immediately sent a small Party to their

Aid, with a promise of a larger Force. Upon which

the Seige came to Bombay, & requested the Assistance

of the English, & offered the Resident Governelvery

advantageous Terms, if they would supply them with

Troops, which upon consideration they agreed to, and

accordingly on the 2 of March, Messr. Borset, and

Hornby with Major Bourne, & some Troops under his

command, Embarked for Baspone, on board the Grabs

commanded by Capt.Burling. The 23 of the same

Month, the Gentleman of Conseil returned, by whom

they were informed, that they arrived there about two

Days before the Portogueze Fleet, & had hoisted English

Colours in the Fort. The commandor in Chief of the

Portogueze, hereupon desired he might be allowed to

take on board the small Party of Men, that had been

sent sent, as he had no Quarrel with the English

& immediately returned to Goa: Upon which the

Maharattas raised the Siege, & Marched their Troops

away. We left afew Soldiers at this pore, & it was

imagined would settle a Factory there, as it is a

Place of great consequence to Bombay, on Account

of Provisions

3․ It was further reported that Siegperci had been besieged by the Marathas for three years. Finding that they could not take the place, the Marathas applied to the Portuguese for troops, which were readily granted, and a small party was immediately sent to their assistance with a promise of a larger force. Upon this, the matter was brought to Bombay, where assistance was requested from the English, and very advantageous terms were offered to the resident governor if troops were supplied. After consideration this was agreed to, and accordingly, on 2 March, Messrs Borset and Hornby, together with Major Bourne and a detachment of troops under his command, embarked for Baspone on board the grabs commanded by Captain Burling. On 23 March the gentlemen of council returned, by whom it was learned that they had arrived there about two days before the Portuguese fleet and had hoisted English colours in the fort. The commander in chief of the Portuguese thereupon requested permission to take on board the small party of men that had been sent, declaring that he had no quarrel with the English, and he immediately returned to Goa. Following this, the Marathas raised the siege and marched their troops away. A few soldiers were left at this port, and it was thought that a factory would be established there, as the place was considered to be of great consequence to Bombay on account of provisions.

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4. The Passengers on board these Ships are, & their

Muster Rolls are as follows viz.

y Name of His Majestys Navy

Messr. Darcy

Rohwes

Raby

Deveiros Prisoners on board the Vrymont

Siliwan

Chaventon

Chatte maid

Sobrassey

Mr. Homes on board the Tambon

Honrs. Miss late Govr. of Mahes & Family

Messr. Nacquelt

Defrance

St.Serr

Dufrane Prisoners on board the Lord Mansfield

Loyal Senr.

Lowit Junr.

Bennett

Lieutt. Faid

Townsend

Bulheil

Couckmart

on board

Messr. Dewdenny of His Majestys Navy the

Shamson Sandwich

Nasford

Smithurst

Wade

Colonel

4․ It was recorded that the passengers on board the said ships, together with those appearing on the muster rolls, were as follows. On board the Vrymont were Messrs Darcy, Rohwes, Raby, Deveiros, described as prisoners, together with Siliwan, Chaventon, Chatte Maid, and Sobrassey. On board the Tambon was Mister Homes. On board the Lord Mansfield were the Honourable Miss, late governor of Mahes, with her family, together with Messrs Nacquelt, Defrance, Saint Serr, and Dufrane, described as prisoners, and also Loyal senior, Lowit junior, Bennett, Lieutenant Faid, Townsend, Bulheil, and Couckmart. On board the Sandwich were Messrs Dewdenny of His Majesty’s Navy, Shamson, Nasford, Smithurst, Wade, and Colonel.

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Colonel Demesne

Mr. Lamaneur & Wife

Messr. Gaubert

Marcenay

Grhapon Prisoners on board the Sandwich

Dallon

Brady

Delloubinier

Dufrom & Passenger

5. In our last Letter to your Honrs. We acquainted

you, We thought the distemper among the Black faller,

We informed You of by the Ship Ajax, was much

abated, but since that time many more have died

some very suddenly, & quite fall, two live above two

or three Days, after they are first taken, but as this

disorder in its appearance, is very different from

what they were then seized with, we are in hopes

it will not prove to be of an infectious Nature

6. On the 22 of last Month, the Govr. was

informed by Pompey a Man Slave belong.g to

Mary Downham Widow, that all the Blacks

upon the Place, intended to make an insurrection

in the Island, & to Murder their Masters, and

Named Canton, Tom, & Minnus, three Mallary

Slaves, belong.g to different People, who had

several times discoursed with him about the

Affair, the two former, more particularly, they as

he says, perswaded him to join them, telling him

4․ Colonel Demesne, Mister Lamaneur and wife, Messrs Gaubert, Marcenay and Grhapon, prisoners, were stated to have been on board the Sandwich, together with Dallon, Brady, Delloubinier, Dufrom and a passenger.

5․ It was stated in the last letter that the distemper among the Black people, of which notice had been given by the Ajax, appeared at that time to have been much abated, but since then many more were reported to have died, some very suddenly, and few were said to have lived above two or three days after they were first taken. As this disorder, in its appearance, was represented to have been very different from that with which they had previously been seized, it was hoped that it would not prove to have been of an infectious nature.

6․ On the 22 of the last month the Governor was informed by Pompey, a man slave belonging to Mary Downham, widow, that all the Blacks upon the place were said to have intended to make an insurrection in the island and to murder their masters. Canton, Tom and Minnus, three Mallary slaves belonging to different persons, were named as having, according to his report, several times discoursed with him upon the affair, the two former more particularly, and as having endeavoured to persuade him to join them.

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that he was a strong Man, & knew how to make use of

a Sword. That upon his refusing to be concerned with

them, they desired him not to discover their intentions,

& they would make a gathering of Money, to pay him

for being silent. This Discovery he informed Us, has

been talked of among them upwards of three Years

pnot. We have examined into it, but as yet have

not been able to come at any proof, those he accuses

positively denying what he alledges against them,

the beforementioned three Blacks are kept in

confinement, & we are endeavouring to make what

further discoveries we can, of this horrid Conspiracy

7. Stephen Willoughby, Soldier having on the

24 of last Month, broke into the Stores of Stephen

Janborg in Jaws Valley, & Stole from thence several things,

as will more fully appear in our Consultation of the

13 instant. The said Willoughby being an old Offender

We in order to deter others from committing the like

Atrocious Crimes, & agreeable to your Orders, in the

28 Paragraph of your Letter by his Delaware relative

to such Criminals, have sent him Prisoner to

England, upon the Ship London, & have paid Capt.

Webbs £5 for his Passage with directions to him

not to suffer the said Willoughby to go out of his

Ship, until he receives your Orders about him, We

have likewise transmitted in a seperate Paper,

in the Packet, the several Depositions we took

relating to this Affair,

6․ It was further reported that he was described as a strong man and as knowing how to make use of a sword. Upon his refusing to be concerned with them, it was said that they desired him not to discover their intentions and that they would make a gathering of money to pay him for being silent. It was stated that this discovery had been talked of among them upwards of three years prior. An examination into the matter was made, but as yet no proof had been obtained, those accused positively denying what was alleged against them. The three Blacks before mentioned were kept in confinement, and endeavours were made to obtain what further discoveries could be made of this horrid conspiracy.

7․ Stephen Willoughby, a soldier, having on the 24 of the last month broken into the stores of Stephen Janborg in Jaws Valley and stolen from thence several things, as more fully appeared in the Consultation of the 13 instant, and the said Willoughby being an old offender, it was judged proper, in order to deter others from committing the like atrocious crimes, and agreeable to the orders contained in the 28 paragraph of the letter by the Delaware relative to such criminals, that he should be sent prisoner to England upon the London. Captain Webb was paid £5 for his passage, with directions not to suffer the said Willoughby to go out of his ship until orders should be received concerning him. The several depositions taken relating to this affair were likewise transmitted in a separate paper in the packet.

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8. In our Letter to your Honrs. by the Ship Houghton

We acquainted you, we should want at least 40 Recruits

next Year, to complete our Garrison, since when,

several more of your Military have died, than Usual,

We therefore request you will be pleased to send Us

by the first Ships 60 instead of 40 Men, for the

Service of this Place

9. We have put on board the Ship Lord

Mansfield, Ulrick, O:Dell a discharged Soldier, towards

completing her Company

10. The following French Officers applied to Us for

Subsistences, the time of their being here, We have

therefore advanced them the respective Sums viz.

To Messr. Brunere

Choutard Sea Officers 38 Days at 4 p.

De Shonovan Day £38

Charanton

Saubestro Surgeon

De Secod Lieutt. of Artillery & 17 p. Do. 12.16.6

Darer Capt. Do. 17.2

Artrue Lieutt. Do. 12.16.6

Prisoners belonging to Ship Vrymont 80.15

De Pin Lucille Capt. & 20 Days,

& 9 p. Day £9

Saberangeline Lieutt.

Bonnet

Devbois writers & 8/4 p.Day p.Rs.10

LAlince

Dexlambie

De Warannac

Monsr. Luet Govr. of Maheie & Family 97 p.3 16.13

Prisoners belongs to Ship Lord Mansfield carried over 157.8

8․ In the letter by the ship Houghton it was stated that at least forty recruits would be required in the next year to complete the garrison. Since that time several more of the military had died than was usual. It was therefore requested that sixty men, instead of forty, should be sent by the first ships for the service of this place.

9․ Ulrick O’Dell, a discharged soldier, was put on board the ship Lord Mansfield towards completing her company.

10․ The following French officers applied for subsistence for the time of their being here, and the respective sums were therefore advanced, viz.

Messieurs Brunere and Choutard, sea officers, for thirty eight days at four rupees per day.

De Shonovan, £38.

Charanton.

Saubestro, surgeon.

De Secod, lieutenant of artillery, for seventeen days, £12 16s 6d.

Darer, captain of artillery, £17 2s.

Artrue, lieutenant of artillery, £12 16s 6d.

Prisoners belonging to the ship Vrymont, £80 15s.

De Pin Lucille, captain, for twenty days at nine rupees per day, £9.

Saberangeline, lieutenant.

Bonnet.

Devbois, writers, at eight shillings and four pence per day, £10.

Lalince.

Dexlambie.

De Warannac.

Monsieur Luet, governor of Maheie, and family, £97 3s.

Prisoners belonging to the ship Lord Mansfield carried over, £157 8s.

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Brought over £15.18.

Das thyme Colonel 111 Days }

@ 15 £ Day } £10.10.

Guilbert

yeogregm } Cost to 4th Day 18.18.

t Dalton

Brady

D.Altumax }

D. Marcent } Lieut to 17th Day 18.18.

D. Scubinet }

Provons belonging to Capt Sandwich 48.6.

£205.14

11 We have Granted the following Bills of

Exchange viz & One Set to Mr Hutchinson Esq^m

for £40. payable to Sir Alexander Grant Baronet,

One Set to Cap^t John Wells for £200. payable to

John Tendall Esq. One Set to Lieu^t John Hames

for £40. payable to Sir Alexander Grant Baronet,

One Set to Cap^t John Wells for £200. payable to

John Tendall Esq. One Set to Lieu^t John Hames

for £00. payable to himself all dated the 4^th

of August, at 90 Days sight. And one Set to

M^r Ch^s 90 and for £40. payable to M^r Dav^d Burges

at 90 Days sight dated the 7^th Instant.

We are

St Helena

9^th Sep^r 1761. Honble Sirs

Yourmost Obed^t & most humble Serv^ts

Signed Ch^s Hutchinson

John Skottowe

John Clarke

R Cutting

```

Brought over £15 18s.

Das Thyme, colonel, one hundred and eleven days at fifteen shillings per day, £10 10s.

Guilbert.

Yeogregm, cost to the fourth day, £18 18s.

Dalton.

Brady.

D’Altumax.

D’Marcent, lieutenant to the seventeenth day, £18 18s.

D’Scubinet.

Prisoners belonging to Captain Sandwich, £48 6s.

Total £205 14s.

11․ The following bills of exchange were granted, viz. one set to Mister Hutchinson Esquire for £40 payable to Sir Alexander Grant Baronet, one set to Captain John Wells for £200 payable to John Tendall Esquire, one set to Lieutenant John Hames for £40 payable to Sir Alexander Grant Baronet, one set to Captain John Wells for £200 payable to John Tendall Esquire, and one set to Lieutenant John Hames for £40 payable to himself, all dated the 4 August, at ninety days after sight. And one set to Mister Charles Noy for £40 payable to Mister David Burges, at ninety days after sight, dated the 7 instant.

We are

St Helena
9 September 1761

Honourable Sirs
Your most obedient and most humble servants

Signed
Charles Hutchinson
John Skottowe
John Clarke
Richard Cutting

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```

List of the Honble Companys Packet from St

Helena p the Ship Le Mansfield, dated the 9 Sepr 1761

viz:

N:1 Gov: & Councls Gen: Letr dated the 9 of Sepr 1761

2 Duplicate Do Do Do dated the 29 July Do

3 Consultations from the 3 Aug: to the 1st Sepr Do

4 Duplicate Do from the 6 to the 21 July Do

5 Servt, Receipt for the Packets of the Marchss Ship Lion

6 Servt Do for a Paper Do of Capt Read Arrow

7 Secondt Do for Do The Marchss Ship Tolland

8 Secondt Do for a Paper Do of Capt Omston

9 List of Queen & Servnts taken the 9 Sepr 1761

10 Do of Cattle returned & killed for the Year Do

11 Duplicad List of the Packets of the Marchss Ship Lion

12. Stocksoe State of the Garrison

13 Gov: Letter to the Secret Committee

14 Abstract of the Cargoes of, Tread Egmont, London;

Lord Mansfield, & Sandwich

15 Time of the Arrival & Depr Britsh & Portugues

16 Duplicate Ship Lord Ansone Accompts

17 Ship Egmont Account

18 Do Londons Do

19 Do Lord Mansfield Do

20 Do Sandwicks Do

21 Cash Acct for the 31 July 1761

22 Do for the Month of Aug Do

23 Do from the 1 to the 9 Sepr Do

```

List of the Honble Companys Packet from St Helena by the Ship Lord Mansfield, dated 9 September 1761 viz.

N:1 Governor and Councils General Letter dated 9 September 1761

2 Duplicate Governor and Councils General Letter dated 29 July 1761

3 Consultations from 3 August to 1 September 1761

4 Duplicate Consultations from 6 to 21 July 1761

5 Servants Receipt for the Packets of the merchant ship Lion

6 Servants Receipt for a paper packet of Captain Read Arrow

7 Second Servants Receipt for the packets of the merchant ship Tolland

8 Second Servants Receipt for a paper packet of Captain Omston

9 List of Queen and servants taken 9 September 1761

10 List of cattle returned and killed for the year 1761

11 Duplicate list of the packets of the merchant ship Lion

12 Stock state of the garrison

13 Governor Letter to the Secret Committee

14 Abstract of the cargoes of the ships Egmont, London, Lord Mansfield and Sandwich

15 Time of the arrival and departure of British and Portuguese ships

16 Duplicate account of the ship Lord Anson

17 Account of the ship Egmont

18 Account of the ship London

19 Account of the ship Lord Mansfield

20 Account of the ship Sandwich

21 Cash account for 31 July 1761

22 Cash account for the month of August 1761

23 Cash account from 1 to 9 September 1761

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```

No 24 Duplicated Cash Acct for the 30 of June 1761

25 Do Do from the 1 to the 30 July Do

26 Cash Remain Secondt Prill Purchasg & Expenses

27 Duplicad Insp: Chckr Receipts for £25.

28 French Officers Receipts for £200.14

29 Comr Marchd from the 29 Decr 1760 to 9 Sepr 1761

30 acct of Wreck Sict at Discharged & Dead

31 Examination upon Step ye Earthquakes affair

32 Capt Wyselles Receipts for £5.

To the Honble the Court

of the

Honble Sirs

1 We Addressed You last by your Ship

Lord Mansfield that sailed from hence on the

10 Sepr in company with your Honr Ships

Egmont, London, & Sandwich

2 On the 3 of this Month arrived your Ships

Palmouth, & Britts Edward from Madras, The

Capt acquaint Us, they left that Place the 6

of Octr & that the Brig & Tryton, sailed from thence

for China in Aug last, each of them had forty

Prisoners

French Gentlemen on board, that your Ship Madras

falling to Leeward of Madras arrived at Vizagapatam

in Aug & from thence proceeded to Bengal; The

Hawke left Madras for Bengal the latter End

of July, & it was supposed, would be dispatched

```

No 24 Duplicate cash account for 30 June 1761

25 Duplicate cash account from 1 to 30 July 1761

26 Cash remaining after provisions purchase and expenses

27 Duplicate inspector and checker receipts for £25 0s 0d

28 French officers receipts for £200 14s 0d

29 Commissary marches from 29 December 1760 to 9 September 1761

30 Account of wrecks, sick, discharged and dead

31 Examination upon Stephen the Earthquake’s affair

32 Captain Wyselle’s receipt for £5 0s 0d

To the Honble the Court of the

Honble Sirs

1․ It was last addressed by the ship Lord Mansfield, which sailed from St Helena on 10 September in company with the ships Egmont, London and Sandwich.

2․ On 3 October arrived the ships Palmouth and Britts Edward from Madras. The captains reported that they left that place on 6 October, and that the brig Tryton sailed from Madras for China in August last, each vessel having forty French prisoners on board. It was further reported that the ship Madras, falling to leeward of Madras, arrived at Vizagapatam in August and from thence proceeded to Bengal. The ship Hawke left Madras for Bengal at the latter end of July and was supposed would be dispatched shortly thereafter.

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```

from thence for Europe about the middle of Septemb

They also inform Us, that your Ships Fox Warren,

& Earl of Holdernesse were at Madras when they

left it, & that it was imagined the Fox would be

sent round to the Malabar Coast, & that the Warren

& Earl of Holdernesse were to proceed for Bengal in

a few Days after they left Fort St George. The

Admiral Watson sailed from Madras for Manilha

in Aug: & was ordered to return in Jany. We are

likewise acquainted that the Priestly Prince George

Worcester put into Fort Marlborugh in July last

when they found the French had evacuated the Place;

That Capts Traps & Mott were sailed for China. And

that Capt Vincent at the earnest Request of the

Natives, remained there to take charge of the

Settlement, That he had advised the President &

Council of Madras with it, & desired he might be

relieved, upon which The Civil Servants were ordered

to be got ready, & Major Adsley appointed to go there to

take the Command, some Troops were likewise to

be sent for that Place, they were to leave Madras

about the middle of Octr. We are told that Pondichorry

is entirely demolished, & that all the Military

Stores & ca were brought to Madras. We are also

informed that the Lascue Snow, Capt Fletcher,

with 25 Men on board, was dispatched from Madras

the beginning of May last, with Orders to look into

the French Islands, to get the best intelligence

```

From thence it was reported that they proceeded for Europe about the middle of September. It was further reported that the ships Fox, Warren, and Earl of Holdernesse were at Madras when they departed, and that it was supposed the Fox would be sent round to the Malabar Coast, and that the Warren and Earl of Holdernesse were to proceed for Bengal a few days after leaving Fort Saint George. Admiral Watson was reported to have sailed from Madras for Manila in August and to have been ordered to return in January.

It was likewise reported that the ship Priestly Prince George Worcester put into Fort Marlborough in July last, when it was found that the French had evacuated the place. Captains Traps and Mott were reported to have sailed for China, and Captain Vincent, at the earnest request of the natives, remained there to take charge of the settlement. It was reported that he had advised the President and Council of Madras of this circumstance and requested to be relieved, upon which the civil servants were ordered to be made ready and Major Adsley appointed to proceed there to take command. Some troops were likewise ordered for that place, and were to depart from Madras about the middle of October.

It was also reported that Pondicherry was entirely demolished and that all military stores and related articles were brought to Madras. Further information stated that the snow Lascue, Captain Fletcher, with twenty five men on board, was dispatched from Madras at the beginning of May last, with orders to examine the French islands and to obtain the best possible intelligence.

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```

he could of the Enemys Fleet, & Forces, that in his

way he called at Diego Raiz, where the French had

a Sergeant Command, & found there a French Ship

& Snow the former he burnt, the Snow he brought

with him to Madras, He also went on shore &

spiked up all their Guns, but not being able to

bring away the People, he took their Cloaths & left

them. That Capt Affleck in the Bettiam touching

there afterwards brought the Guns away with him

We are likewise acquainted that the Majesty

Ship Seaford arrived at Madras in June last,

& that immediately after Capt Tidemans sailed

from thence with several of his Majestys Ships

under his Command, they had provisions sufficient

to serve them four Months, that Colonels Monson,

Major Scott & a party of Highlanders were imbarked

on board that Squadron, it is thought they are

going to join an Expedition fitted out from England

against the French Islands. It is likewise said

that Admiral Cornish sailed from Bombay with the

remainder of the Squadron the beginning of Aug on

on the same Service.

3 Capt Howard acquaints Us, he heard at

the Cappe, that two French Ships of 74 Guns &

one of 64 had sailed from thence the 23 of Nov:

for Europe, & that it was reported they had on

board all the most Valuable Goods from Mauritius,

The Ships he was told, were in a very bad condition

```

He was reported to have done all that could have been done against the enemy fleet and forces. On his way he called at Diego Raiz, where the French had a sergeant in command, and found there a French ship and a snow. The former he burnt, and the snow he brought with him to Madras. He also went on shore and spiked all their guns, but not being able to carry away the people, he took their clothes and left them. It was further reported that Captain Affleck, in the Bettiam, touching there afterwards, brought the guns away with him.

It was likewise reported that His Majesty’s Ship Seaford arrived at Madras in June last, and that immediately after, Captain Tideman sailed from thence with several of His Majesty’s ships under his command. They were said to have provisions sufficient to serve them four months. Colonels Monson, Major Scott, and a party of Highlanders were embarked on board that squadron, and it was supposed they were going to join an expedition fitted out from England against the French islands. It was likewise reported that Admiral Cornish sailed from Bombay with the remainder of the squadron at the beginning of August on the same service.

3 Captain Howard acquainted it was heard at the Cape that two French ships of seventy four guns and one of sixty four guns had sailed from thence on the 23 November for Europe, and that it was reported they had on board all the most valuable goods from Mauritius. The ships were said to be in a very bad condition.

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```

We likewise informs Us, that it was said the French

had but one Kings Ship in India, the carrys 18

Guns, & was gone Convoy to two Sail for Batavia

4 We acquainted your Honrs in our last Letter

by the Lord Mansfield, that we were informed of

an insurrection being intended amongst the Blacks

& that we should make all the inquiry we possibly

could into it; which we accordingly have done, as you

will please to observe in our Consultation of the 21

of Sepr last, And as we have heard nothing more

of that horrid Conspiracy since, we are in hopes

the methods we took, with the till arms concerned,

will deter them & others, from Attempts of this

sort in future.

5 A man Slave belonging to Saml Incgs

Slanter has Backsided, & destempered two of the

Masters Children, one about seven Years old, & the

other about five: The circumstances of that shocking

Affair, is entered in our Consultation of the 15

instant, & as his Crime is of so heinous a Nature

as to deserve & Death, we did not think, proper

to inflick any Corporal punishment on the

Delinquent, but have put him in Irons, and

determine to keep in Prison, until we have your

directions thereon

6 The Passengers on board the Falmouth

are Mrs Andrews, Mrs Hall Emps Servants, & on

board the Prince Edward Mrs McLay Capt Allicks

```

It was likewise reported, that it was said the French

had but one King’s ship in India, which carried 18

guns, and was gone as convoy to two sail for Batavia.

4 It was acquainted in the last letter by the *Lord Mansfield*,

that information had been received of an intended

insurrection amongst the Blacks, and that all possible

inquiry would be made into it, which was accordingly

done, as appears in the Consultation of the 21

September last. As nothing further had been heard

of that horrid conspiracy since, it was hoped the

methods taken, with the persons concerned, would

deter them, and others, from attempts of this sort

in future.

5 A man slave belonging to Samuel Ings Slanter

had abused and distressed two of the master’s

children, one about seven years old, and the other

about five. The circumstances of that shocking

affair were entered in the Consultation of the 15

instant, and as the crime was of so heinous a nature

as to deserve death, it was not thought proper to

inflict any corporal punishment on the delinquent,

but he was put in irons, and it was determined to

keep him in prison until directions were received

thereon.

6 The passengers on board the *Falmouth*

were Mrs Andrews and Mrs Hall, servants, and on

board the *Prince Edward* Mrs McLay and Captain

Allicks.

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```

and Lieut Dundas of His Majestys Navy. There

is likewise on board the Falmouth 6 French

Gentlemen Servants & Prisoners; And 40 Gentlemen

& Servants on board the Prince Edward for their

Names Quality & carve refer you to the Muster

Rolls of the respective Ships they belong to,

which are entered in our Consultation of the

13 instant.

7 We have put on board the Ship Falmouth

Sr Gwilliams, & Edward Mansell two discharge

Soldiers to complete her Company.

8 We have likewise given Capt Haldane

a permission to receive on board his Ship

Derby Corker, R Speen, & Wm Brittington three

other discharged Men, they have signed an

instrument as you have been pleased to

direct, that they will not demand any Wages

for their Voyage Home, which we transmit

herewith.

9 John Puchier a French Consern, who

was left here out of the Ship St Maurice, we

have given Capt Dale an Order to receive

on board the Falmouth. & have paid him

£5. for his Passage, this Money with the

£3 day advanced for his Subsistence during

his Stay here amounting to £3..8. we

suppose will be repaid you by the Owners of the

Ship Sandwich.

```

and Lieutenant Dundas of His Majesty’s Navy. There

were likewise on board the *Falmouth* six French

gentlemen servants and prisoners, and forty gentlemen

and servants on board the *Prince Edward*. For their

names, quality and capacity, reference was made to the

muster rolls of the respective ships to which they

belonged, which were entered in the Consultation of

the 13 instant.

7 There were put on board the ship *Falmouth*

Sir Gwilliams and Edward Mansell, two discharged

soldiers, to complete her company.

8 A permission was likewise given to Captain

Haldane to receive on board his ship Derby Corker,

Robert Speen and William Brittington, three other

discharged men. They had signed an instrument, as

directed, that they would not demand any wages for

their voyage home, which was transmitted herewith.

9 John Puchier, a French concern, who had been

left here out of the ship *Saint Maurice*, was ordered

to be received on board the *Falmouth* by Captain

Dale, and £5 0s 0d was paid for his passage. This sum,

together with £3 8s 0d advanced for his subsistence

during his stay here, was supposed would be repaid

by the owners of the ship *Sandwich*.

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10 We have likewise paid Jacob Bernard

6 £ Day for his Subsistence for 40 Days

amnesting to one £ and Eliaum. He was left here

out of the Ship Egmont, And Wm Barden one

of his Majestys Invalids, who Laid here out

of the Same Ship, we advanced 1/ for his

Subsistence @ 7 £ Day, to the time of his Death,

he being Sick in the Hospital.

11 We also paid for the Subsistence of

Wm Broom, another of His Majestys Invalids

who was left here out of the Ship Stormont the

Sum of £4 and 3 at 6 £ Day, he being likewise

Sick in the Hospital to the time of his Death.

All these Sums we imagine will be made

good to you, by the respective Owners of the

aforesaid Ships.

12 Mess:rs Onnoon, & Dixon, who came here

the 16 of Octr last, from the Cape, upon the

Mercury Snow, being desirous to return to

England upon these Ships, We gave Capt

Haldane an Order to receive the former, &

Capt Dale one for the Latter; And as the

Capts could not accommodate them at their

Tables. We paid each of these Gentlemen

£5.— to defray their expenses, agreeable to

your Honrs directions.

13 The Govr hath paid £200.— into your

Sack, which we have received & given him Bills

10 Payment was likewise made to Jacob Bernard

at 6d per day for his subsistence for 40 days, amounting

to £1 0s 0d. He had been left here out of the ship

*Egmont*. William Barden, one of His Majesty’s

invalids, who was likewise left here out of the same

ship, was advanced 1s 0d per day for his subsistence

at 7d per day to the time of his death, he being sick

in the hospital.

11 Payment was also made for the subsistence of

William Broom, another of His Majesty’s invalids,

who had been left here out of the ship *Stormont*,

the sum of £4 3s 0d at 6d per day, he being likewise

sick in the hospital to the time of his death. All these

sums were supposed would be made good by the

respective owners of the aforesaid ships.

12 Messrs Onnoon and Dixon, who came here on

16 October last from the Cape upon the snow *Mercury*,

being desirous to return to England upon these ships,

Captain Haldane was ordered to receive the former,

and Captain Dale the latter. As the captains could

not accommodate them at their tables, £5 0s 0d was

paid to each of these gentlemen to defray their

expenses, agreeable to directions received.

13 The Governor paid £200 0s 0d into the cash,

which was received, and bills of exchange were given

to him accordingly.

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```

Exchange drawn on your Honrs for that Sum,

payable to Saml Hough Esq. or Order, 90 Days

after sight, dated the 6 instant.

14 Monsieur Designy, late Govr of Pondicherry

applying to Us for £350.— We have advanced

him that Sum, & taken Bills of Exchange

drawn on Honrd Duval D amanour his

Brother in Paris, payable to your Honrs or Order

60 Days after sight, dated the 20 instant, the

first Bill & Letter of Advice goes herewith.

15 The Distemper among the Black Cattle

which We acquainted your Honrs of in our last

Letter still continues, by the returns lately made

50 have died since the 1 of Jany 1761 of the

breeding Cattle among which it has chiefly

prevailed, the methods taken for their recovery

have hitherto proved ineffectual, The Milk upon

opening is quite decayed, the Body & Udder

full of Blood, & they stale Blood immediately

upon their being dismissed, some of them have

been seised so violently as to carry them off, in

a few Hours. The apprehensions that this

Distemper may continue gives a most

melancholy prospect, & will be attended with

fatal consequences to the Island.

16 John Bland your Master Mason, having

been charged before Us, in Consultation of the 21

Decr last, with assaulting, & beating Mr Barclay

```

Exchange was drawn on the Honourable Company

for that sum, payable to Samuel Hough Esquire or

order, 90 days after sight, dated the 6 instant.

14 Monsieur Designy, late Governor of

Pondicherry, having applied for £350 0s 0d, that

sum was advanced to him, and bills of exchange

were taken, drawn on the Honourable Duval

d’Amanour, his brother, in Paris, payable to the

Honourable Company or order, 60 days after sight,

dated the 20 instant, the first bill and letter of

advice being transmitted herewith.

15 The distemper among the black cattle,

previously reported, still continued, and by the

returns lately made, fifty had died since

1 January 1761, chiefly among the breeding cattle.

The methods taken for their recovery had hitherto

proved ineffectual. Upon opening, the milk was

found quite decayed, the body and udder full of

blood, and they staled blood immediately upon

being dismissed. Some had been seized so violently

as to carry them off within a few hours. The

apprehension that this distemper might continue

gave a most melancholy prospect, and was judged

likely to be attended with fatal consequences to

the island.

16 John Bland, master mason, having been

charged before the Board, in consultation of

21 December last, with assaulting and beating

Mr Barclay

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```

your Surgeon, without any provocation. And

likewise for abuseing Capt Blarkseens Sumbruch

& presuming to strike him; for only attempting

to rescue Mr Barclay from his insult. We

for these misdemeaner, & in order to preserve

the peace & Government of the Island thought

it absolutely necessary to dismiss him from your

Service. But as he seems much concerned

for his past fault, & assures Us, he will be

very circumspect in his future behavior. We

have at the instance of Capt Clark agreed and

do intend to restore him to his employ again

at the latter end of the present Quarter

provided We find his conduct corresponds with

the promises given in his Petition of the 23

of Decr last.

17 We have had a very good Winter Season, &

at present have plenty of Food for the Cattle

But by the scheme given in for Slaughter for

twenty, we less than We had in Jany last, which

makes Us apprehensive, We shall not be able

to give your Honrs Ships so much fresh

Provision as We could wish to do.

St Helena We are

25 Novr 1762 Honble Sirs

Your most Obedt & most humble Servts

Signed Chs Hutchinson

John Skottowe

John Clarke

M Curling

```

16 The master mason, John Bland, had been charged,

as recorded in the Consultation of 21 December last,

with assaulting and beating the surgeon, Mr Barclay,

without provocation, and also with abusing Captain

Blarkseens Sumbruch and attempting to strike him

when he intervened to protect Mr Barclay. In

consequence of these offences, and in order to

maintain peace and proper government on the island,

it was considered necessary to dismiss him from the

service. However, as he expressed sincere regret for

his misconduct and gave assurances of improved

behaviour, it was later agreed, at the request of

Captain Clark, that he should be restored to his

employment at the close of the present quarter,

provided his conduct should thereafter conform to

the assurances contained in his petition of 23 December.

17 The winter season had been favourable, and

there was at present an ample supply of fodder for

the cattle. Nevertheless, the returns submitted for

slaughter showed a reduction of twenty head compared

with January last, which gave rise to concern that it

might not be possible to supply the ships with as much

fresh provision as had been intended.

158

77V

```

List of the Honble Companys Packet from St Helena

p Ship Falmouth dated the 25 Novr 1762.

N:1 Gov & Councls General Letter dated the 25 Novr 1762

2 Duplicate Do Do Do dated the 9 Sepr 1761

3 Consultations from the 3 Sepr 1761 to 25 Novr 1762

4 Duplicate Do from the 6 Aug. to 1st Sepr 1761

5 Servt Receipt for the Packets of Ship Lord Mansfield

6 Secondt Do for Do of the Marchss Ship Lion

7 Do Do for a Paper Do of Capt Read Arrow

8 List of Queen & Servts taken 25 Novr 1762

9 Duplicate List of Cattle returned & killed in the Months

10 Do of the Cattle & c that died Mansfield

11 List of 5 Discharged Soldiers

12 Stocksoe State of the Garrison

13 Muster Rolls of Do

14 Govr Letter to the Secret Committee

15 Abstract of the Cargos of Ships Falmouth & Chadston

16 Ship Falmouth Accompts

17 Do Princ Edward Do

18 Duplicate Ship Egmont Acct

19 Do Ship Londons Do

20 Do Ship Sandwicks Do

21 Do Ship Lord Mansfield Do

22 Cash Acct from 10 to 30 Sepr 1761

23 Do for the Month of Octr Do

24 Do for the Month of Novr Do

25 Do for the Month - Decr Do

```

List of the Honourable Company’s Packets from St Helena,

sent by the ship *Falmouth*, dated 25 November 1762.

No. 1. Governor and Council General Letter dated 25 November 1762

2. Duplicate Governor and Council General Letter dated 9 September 1761

3. Consultations from 3 September 1761 to 25 November 1762

4. Duplicate Consultations from 6 August to 1 September 1761

5. Servants’ receipt for the packets sent by the ship *Lord Mansfield*

6. Second servants’ receipt for the packets sent by His Majesty’s ship *Lion*

7. Servants’ receipt for a paper packet sent by Captain Read Arrow

8. List of women and servants taken on 25 November 1762

9. Duplicate list of cattle returned and killed during the stated months

10. Duplicate list of cattle and related losses that died during the *Lord Mansfield*’s voyage

11. List of five discharged soldiers

12. Stock state of the garrison

13. Muster rolls of the garrison

14. Governor’s letter to the Secret Committee

15. Abstract of the cargoes of the ships *Falmouth* and *Chadston*

16. Account of the ship *Falmouth*

17. Account of the ship *Prince Edward*

18. Duplicate account of the ship *Egmont*

19. Duplicate account of the ship *London*

20. Duplicate account of the ship *Sandwich*

21. Duplicate account of the ship *Lord Mansfield*

22. Cash account from 10 September to 30 September 1761

23. Cash account for the month of October 1761

24. Cash account for the month of November 1761

25. Cash account for the month of December 1761

159

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```

No 26 Cash Acct from the 1 to 25 Jany 1762

27 Duplicate Do for 31 July 1761

28 Do Do for the Month of Aug Do

29 Do Do from the 1 to 9 Sepr Do

30 Monsr Designy French Bills of Exchange & Letter

of Advice

31 Duplicated French Officers Receipts for £200:14

32 Do Capt Welles Receipts for £5

33 Capt & Dales Ditto for £5

34 Instruments in Writing from 3 discharged Soldiers

35 List of Families taken 30 Sepr 1761

36 Do of Rents taken 30 Sepr Do

37 Do of the Ponts Comp & Laws taken 30 Sepr Do

To the Honble the Court

of the

Honble Sirs

We wrote to your Honors under

date of the 25 of last Month by your Ship

Falmouth, which sailed from hence in company

with the Prince Edward.

Your Ship Warwick arrived

here the 31 of Jany from China, which Place left

Decemr acquaints Us, he left the Island last in

company with the Luzmantor & Princess Augusta,

& that he parted Company with them in the

South Sea, the former is Victualed to 30 Lenstra

15 Cache, Latter likewise is going was four

```

No. 26. Cash account from 1 January to 25 January 1762

27. Duplicate cash account for 31 July 1761

28. Duplicate cash account for the month of August 1761

29. Duplicate cash account from 1 September to 9 September 1761

30. Monsieur Designy’s French Bills of Exchange, with letter of advice

31. Duplicate French officers’ receipts for £200 14s 0d

32. Duplicate Captain Welles’s receipt for £5 0s 0d

33. Duplicate Captain Dale’s receipt for £5 0s 0d

34. Instruments in writing from three discharged soldiers

35. List of families taken on 30 September 1761

36. List of rents taken on 30 September 1761

37. List of the Company’s ponts, compacts, and laws taken on 30 September 1761

To the Honourable the Court

Honourable Sirs,

It was recorded that a letter had last been sent to the Court dated 25 November, by the ship *Falmouth*, which sailed from St Helena in company with the *Prince Edward*.

It was further reported that the ship *Warwick* arrived at St Helena on 31 January from China. The commander stated that he had departed from that place in December, and that he had left the island in company with the *Luzmantor* and the *Princess Augusta*. He further reported that he parted company with those vessels in the South Sea.

It was stated that the former vessel was victualled for thirty lasts and fifteen casks, and that the latter was likewise well supplied and proceeding on her intended voyage.

160

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therefore to be here in April, & Duke of Richmond

at Canton when they arrived the latter end of

June. And has not met with your Honr Ship

Leppington the 5 of July as I hope she Relicts

for London.

On the 3 instant arrived here Messrs

Joys & Kempsy & Dr Richy four Majestys Ship

Leppington, both from the Cape, We are informed

that they left his Majestys Ships Kent, Grafton,

Bristol & La Tartlethesis and that his Majesty

Stores of at the C. of Town & as Refresh when

whence all sail & Caen

Capt Laughlin of His Majestys

Ship Aldernoy & the Packer, applied to Us

for £48.15.10 which Sum we have advanced

them, & taken Bills of Exchange drawn upon

the Commissions for Victualling His Majestys

Navy payable to your Honrs or Order 90 Days

after sight dated this Day. The first Bill &

Letters of Advice goes herewith.

We are

St Helena Honble Sirs

12 Feby 1762 your most Obedt & most humble

Servants

Signed Chs Hutchinson

John Skottowe

John Clarke

M. Curling

It was further reported that those vessels were therefore expected to arrive there in April, and that the Duke of Richmond was at Canton when they arrived there in the latter part of June. It was also reported that no sight had been had of the Company ship Leppington on 5 July, though it was hoped that she had already departed for London.

It was then noted that on the 3rd of the month Messrs Joys and Kempsy, together with Doctor Richy, arrived at St Helena from the Cape by His Majesty’s Ship Leppington. They reported that they had left His Majesty’s Ships Kent, Grafton, Bristol, and La Tartlethesis at the Cape, where His Majesty’s stores were landed for refreshment, and that all those ships had subsequently sailed.

It was further recorded that Captain Laughlin of His Majesty’s Ship Alderney and the Packer applied for the sum of £48 15s 10d. This amount was advanced to them, and Bills of Exchange were taken, drawn upon the Commissioners for Victualling His Majesty’s Navy, payable to order ninety days after sight, dated that day. The first Bill and the accompanying letter of advice were enclosed.

Signed at St Helena on 12 February 1762 by
Charles Hutchinson
John Skottowe
John Clarke
M. Curling

161

79R

```

List of the Honble Companys Packet from

St Helena p His Majestys Ship Aldernoy dated the 12

Feby 1762 viz:

N: S 1 Gov & Councls General Letr dated the 12 Feby 1762

2 Duplicate Do & Do dated the 25 Novr Do

3 Consult from the 1 to the 12 Feby

4 Duplicate Do from the Sepr 1761 to the 25 Novr 1762

5 Servt Receipt for the Packets of Ship Falmouth

6 Secondt Do for Do of Capt Read Mansfield

7 List of Queen & Servts taken the 12 Feby 1762

8 Duplicated List of the Packets of Ship Falmouth

9 Stocksoe State of the Garrison

10 Govr Letter to the Secret Committee

11 Abstract of the Cargo of Ship Warwick

12 Duplicated Ship Falmouth Accompts

13 Do Ship Prince Edward Do

14 Do Cash Acct from 10 to 30 Sepr 1761

15 Do Do for the Month of Octr Do

16 Do Do for the Month of Novr Do

17 Do Do for the Month of Decr Do

18 Do Do from the 1 to 25 Jany 1762

19 Cash Acct from 26 to 31 Jany Do

20 Do from 1 to 12 Feby Do

21 Monsr Designy Second Bill of Exchange & Letr

22 Duplicated Capts Dales Receipt for £5.

23 Do List of Families taken 30 Sepr 1761

24 Do Do of Rents taken 30 Do Do

25 Do Do of the Ponts Comp & Slaves taken 30 Do

26 Capt Laughins French Bill of Exchange & Letr Advice

```

1․ The Governor and Council’s general letter dated 12 February 1762 was enclosed.

2․ A duplicate of the Governor and Council’s general letter dated 25 November 1761 was enclosed.

3․ The consultations held from 1 February to 12 February 1762 were transmitted.

4․ A duplicate of the consultations covering the period from September 1761 to 25 November 1762 was enclosed.

5․ The servant’s receipt acknowledging the packets sent by the ship Falmouth was included.

6․ A second servant’s receipt for the same packets, relating to Captain Read of Lord Mansfield, was enclosed.

7․ A list of the Queen’s servants and other servants taken on 12 February 1762 was included.

8․ A duplicate list of the packets sent by the ship Falmouth was enclosed.

9․ The stock and effective state of the garrison was included.

10․ The Governor’s letter to the Secret Committee was enclosed.

11․ An abstract of the cargo of the ship Warwick was included.

12․ Duplicate accounts for the ship Falmouth were enclosed.

13․ Duplicate accounts for the ship Prince Edward were included.

14․ The cash account covering the period from 10 September to 30 September 1761 was enclosed.

15․ The cash account for the month of October 1761 was included.

16․ The cash account for the month of November 1761 was enclosed.

17․ The cash account for the month of December 1761 was included.

18․ The cash account covering the period from 1 January to 25 January 1762 was enclosed.

19․ The cash account covering the period from 26 January to 31 January 1762 was included.

20․ The cash account covering the period from 1 February to 12 February 1762 was enclosed.

21․ Monsieur Designy’s second Bill of Exchange, together with the accompanying letter, was included.

22․ A duplicate of Captain Dale’s receipt for £5 0s 0d was enclosed.

23․ A duplicate list of families taken on 30 September 1761 was included.

24․ A duplicate list of rents taken on 30 September 1761 was enclosed.

25․ A duplicate list of the Company’s ponts, compounds, and slaves taken on 30 September 1761 was included.

26․ Captain Laughlin’s French Bill of Exchange, together with the letter of advice, was enclosed.

162

79V

To the Honble the Court

of the

Honble Sirs

1 Our last Letter to your Honors went by

His Majestys Ship Aldernoy, that sailed from

hence the 12 instant.

2 The Reverend Mr Markellyn acquainting

Us that he intended to go to England upon the

Ship Warwick, We have applyed to your

directions given Capt Benning an Order to

receive him, with the inducements & necessary

on board, & to provide him with proper

accommodations & Diet at his Table at your

Honors expence.

3 John Huffman, Matlock that has been

Spearment for some times past, having on the

Reverend Sherland & Mr Markellyn endeavours

were likewise inflicted with a disease intending

desertion, we judged it proper to dismiss us out,

Consultation of the 13 of this Month. We have

sent him to sooner to England upon the Ship

Warwick, & have paid the Capt £5.— for his

Passage, with directions to him not to suffer

the said Huffman to go out of the Ship until

he receives your Order about him. We have

likewise transmitted in a seperate Coperin

1․ It was reported that the previous letter to the Court had been sent by His Majesty’s Ship Alderney, which sailed from St Helena on 12 February.

2․ It was stated that the Reverend Mr Markellyn informed the Council of his intention to proceed to England on the ship Warwick. In accordance with the Court’s directions, Captain Benning was therefore ordered to receive him on board, to provide him with suitable accommodation and diet at the captain’s table, and to do so at the Company’s expense.

3․ It was recorded that John Huffman, a matlock who had been under suspicion for some time, and whose conduct had given rise to concern despite the efforts of the Reverend Mr Sherland and Mr Markellyn, was judged to be inclined towards desertion. For this reason, and as resolved in the consultation of 13 February, he was dismissed from service and sent to England on the ship Warwick. The captain was paid £5 0s 0d for his passage and was instructed not to allow Huffman to leave the ship until further orders were received from the Court. It was also noted that the relevant papers concerning this matter were transmitted separately.

163

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```

the Packet, the Surgeons Reports, & the several

Depositions we took relating to this Affair.

4 We have put on board the Ship Warwick

The Rev: & his Company two discharged Soldiers

towards completting her Company.

5 And have likewise given Capt Dawes

an Order to receive on board his Ship Banke

Outstells Stephen Orr John Leigh, John Lena

& Gillets Welshomes five disbnd Soldiers, &

have paid the Capt £25.— for their Passage

they have also signed an instrument omittering

that they will not demand any Wages for their

Voyage Home which you will find on the

Packet, together with the Surgeons Certificate

in respect to the Insolus John Baghosm

another discharged Soldier, has entered on board

of his Majestys Ship La Esperanza.

6 We have given Capt Dawes a Promiser

to receive on board the Warwick, Alexr Marr & Jos

who was left here out of the Ship Prince Rupert

& Robert Laws, who behaved himself here out of the

Ship Falmouth. We have paid the former for the

the latter 1£/5 at 6 £ Day each, for their Subsistence

which Sum, we suppose will be repaid you

by the Owners of their respective Ships.

7 We transmit You by this opportunity

our General Books of Accompts

balanced to the 31 of December last,

```

4․ It was recorded that two discharged soldiers were placed on board the ship Warwick, together with the Reverend gentleman and his party, in order to help complete the ship’s company.

5․ It was further noted that Captain Dawes was given an order to receive on board his ship Banke Outstells Stephen Orr, John Leigh, John Lena, and Gillets Welshomes, being five discharged soldiers. The captain was paid £25 0s 0d for their passage. These men signed an instrument confirming that they would not claim any wages for their voyage home. That instrument, together with the surgeon’s certificate relating to the invalid John Baghosm, was transmitted in the packet. It was also noted that John Baghosm, another discharged soldier, entered on board His Majesty’s Ship La Esperanza.

6․ It was additionally recorded that Captain Dawes was authorised to receive on board the Warwick Alexander Marr and Joseph, who had been left at the island from the ship Prince Rupert, together with Robert Laws, who had been left there from the ship Falmouth. Subsistence was paid for these men at the rate of £1 5s 0d each, calculated at 6d per day. It was assumed that these sums would be reimbursed by the owners of their respective ships.

7․ It was stated that the General Books of Accounts, balanced to 31 December 1761, were transmitted by this opportunity.

164

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```

8 Capt Dawson applied to Us to pay

£118.. unto printing, which we have

received & given him Bills of Exchange

drawn on your Honors for that Sum, payable

to himself or Order 90 Days after sight dated

this day.

9 Sir Thomas Mann Capt of His

Majestys Ship Esperanze John Kiemes

applied to Us for £2.17.6 & which Sum we

have advanced them, & taken Bills of

Exchange drawn upon the Commissioners for

Victualling His Majestys Navy payable to

your Honrs or Order thirty Days after sight

dated this Day.

10 The week on your by His Majestys

Ship Esperanze which sails in company

with your Ship Warwick.

We are

St Helena Honble Sirs

18 Feby 1762 Your most Obedt & most

humble Servants

Signed

Chas Hutchinson

John Skottowe

John Clarke

M. Curling

```

8․ It was recorded that Captain Dawson applied to pay the sum of £118 0s 0d into the Company’s cash. That sum was received, and Bills of Exchange were issued to him, drawn on the Honourable Company, payable to himself or order, ninety days after sight, dated the same day.

9․ It was further recorded that Sir Thomas Mann, Captain of His Majesty’s Ship Esperanze, together with John Kiemes, applied for the sum of £2 17s 6d. That amount was advanced to them, and Bills of Exchange were taken, drawn upon the Commissioners for Victualling His Majesty’s Navy, payable to the Honourable Company or order, thirty days after sight, dated the same day.

10․ This communication was sent by His Majesty’s Ship Esperanze, which sailed in company with the Company’s ship Warwick.

165

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```

List of the Honble Companys Packet from

St Helena p His Majestys Ship Esperanze dated

the 18 Feby 1762 viz:

N: 1 Gov & Councls General Letter dated 18 Feby 1762

2 Duplicate Do & Do dated 12 Do Do

3 Consult from 13 to 18 Do Do

4 Duplicated Do from the 1 to the 12 Do Do

5 Servt Receipt for the Packets of His Majestys

Ship Aldernoy

6 Secondt Receipts for Do of Ship Falmouth

7 List of Queen & Servts taken 18 Feby 1762

8 Duplicated List of the Packets of His Majestys Ship

Aldernoy

9 List of 9 Discharged Soldiers

10 Stocksoe State of the Garrison

11 Govr Letter to the Secret Committee

12 Ship Warwick Accompts

13 Cash Acct from 13 to 18 Feby 1762

14 Duplicated Do from 26 to 31 Jany Do

15 Do Do from 1 to 12 Feby Do

16 Capt Hughes Second Bill of Exchange & Letr Advice

17 Capt Dawsons Receipt for £100

18 General Books of Accompts

19 Surgeons Certificate of 6 Disbnd Soldiers

20 Examination upon John Hoffman & Pert

21 Sir Thos Mann first Bill Exchange & Letter

of Advice

22 Instruments in Writing from 5 dischd Soldr

```

1․ Governor and Council’s General Letter, dated 18 February 1762

2․ Duplicate of the Governor and Council’s General Letter, dated 12 February 1762

3․ Consultations from 13 February to 18 February 1762

4․ Duplicate Consultations from 1 February to 12 February 1762

5․ Servants’ Receipt for the packets sent by His Majesty’s Ship Aldernoy

6․ Second Receipts for the packets sent by the Ship Falmouth

7․ List of Queen’s servants taken on 18 February 1762

8․ Duplicate list of the packets sent by His Majesty’s Ship Aldernoy

9․ List of nine discharged soldiers

10․ Stock and state of the garrison

11․ Governor’s Letter to the Secret Committee

12․ Accounts of the Ship Warwick

13․ Cash Account from 13 February to 18 February 1762

14․ Duplicate Cash Account from 26 January to 31 January 1762

15․ Cash Account from 1 February to 12 February 1762

16․ Captain Hughes’s second Bill of Exchange and Letter of Advice

17․ Captain Dawson’s receipt for £100 0s 0d

18․ General Books of Accounts

19․ Surgeon’s Certificate relating to six discharged soldiers

20․ Examination concerning John Hoffman and others

21․ Sir Thomas Mann’s first Bill of Exchange and Letter of Advice

22․ Instruments in writing from five discharged soldiers

166

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```

To the Honble the Court

of the

Honble Sirs

1 We wrote to You last, under date of the

18 Feby by His Majestys Ship Esperanze, which

sailed in company with your Honrs Ship Warwick

2 On the 1 of last Month arrived your Ship

Hawke, & the 26 the Raley both from Bengall

Capt Stafford acquaints Us, he left that Place the

3 of Jany: And that the spiked sailed from thence

for Bombay on Decr last. That & was repaired

the Factory Villamsey was to be dispatched for

Europe about the middle of Feby & that the

Warren would sail about the same time for

Fort St George, & to proceed from thence for

England, & the Cydofalchet was hourly expected

at Bengall & would be dispatched from thence

Home.

3 We are also informed, that some Private

Letters from vizaynapatam, gave an account

that the Colony was lying off, Hamala, when

Capt Vincent perceiving alights at some distance

bombards sent his Boat to her assistance, but

she not returning, he weighed Anchor, & stood for

Fort Marlborough & that he passed the Ships

She styled French Cause, & fired abroad side

at him, which had no damage, She appeared

```

1․ The Court had last been addressed by letter dated 18 February, sent by His Majesty’s Ship Esperanze, which sailed in company with the Company ship Warwick.

2․ On the first day of the previous month the Company ship Hawke arrived, and on the twenty-sixth the Raley, both from Bengal. Captain Stafford reported that he had left Bengal on 3 January. He further stated that the Spiked had sailed from Bengal for Bombay in December, that the Factory ship Villamsey was expected to be dispatched for Europe about the middle of February, that the Warren would sail at about the same time for Fort St George and then proceed for England, and that the Cydofalchet was hourly expected at Bengal and would be sent home soon after her arrival.

3․ Information was also received from private letters from Vizagapatam stating that a Company ship was lying off Hamala. Captain Vincent, observing signal lights at some distance, sent his boat to assist, but as it did not return he weighed anchor and stood for Fort Marlborough. In doing so he passed a ship said to be French, which fired a broadside at him without causing damage.

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to be a large Ship with two Tier of Guns, he saved

he passed his two Boats being at her Stern full

of Armed Men, Upon his arrivals at Fort Marlbrough

he put on board the Colony 40 Chests of your Honrs

Treasures, & dispatched her with 90 Men for Fort

St George, which Place She reached third Weeks

after. The Earl Temple being then ready to sail

for the West Coast now desired, some time, to have

a greater reinforcement put on board.

4 We likewise hear that the Sultan Salom

a Country Ship, was sent from Madras the 26 of

August last to Bengal, with Stores, & three

Companies of Collandpolie Regiment consisting of

about 270 Men, & a Company of French in the

English Service of about 30 Men, Strapped Oy?

after She proved so leaky, that to art Pomene about

Commanded her Major Gordon, Capt Baufield Weigh

with about 25 others took an open Ran the Night,

of quitting the Ship, by getting into the Long

Boat the next Day they perceived all the Mach

cut away, & judged She must founder in a short

time after, they recover the Boat five Days before

they reached Land, & in great distress Capt Pomes

Bransfield with two or three more Gentlemen were

arrived at Bengal, they gave an account of the

Death of Major Gordon, Capt Lake & some other.

5 The Passengers on board these Ships

```

Here is the continuation, rendered in clearer and more understandable English, keeping the paragraph numbering exactly as written and using past-tense impersonal narrative.

3․ The ship was described as a large vessel with two tiers of guns. It was reported that, as Captain Vincent passed her, two boats full of armed men were seen astern of the vessel. Upon arrival at Fort Marlborough, forty chests of the Company’s treasure were put on board the Colony, which was then dispatched with ninety men for Fort St George. That ship reached her destination about three weeks later. As the Earl Temple was then ready to sail for the West Coast, a request was made that she should be allowed time in order to receive a stronger reinforcement on board.

4․ It was further reported that the country ship Sultan Salom had been sent from Madras to Bengal on 26 August last, carrying stores and three companies of the Collandpolie Regiment, amounting to about two hundred and seventy men, together with a company of French soldiers in the English service numbering about thirty men. After sailing, the vessel was found to be so leaky that Major Gordon, who commanded her, together with Captain Baufield and about twenty-five others, left the ship during the night in the long boat. The following day it was observed that all the masts had been cut away, and it was concluded that the ship must soon founder. After five days at sea the boat reached land in great distress. Captain Pomes Bransfield, with two or three other gentlemen, eventually arrived at Bengal and reported the deaths of Major Gordon, Captain Lake, and several others.

5․ The passengers on board these ships were as follows.

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Capt Evenant

Capt Dent } Of his Majestys Navy

Lieut Sandham

Lieut Manwel } On board the Raley

Mr Caulk

Major Smith

Capt Smith 111 Regt

Mr Swing

Major Cockle 111 Regt

Mr Halwell } On board the Raley

Capt White

Mr Burnham 111 Regt

Mr Stevenson

6 In the last Quarters Accompt we did not

deduct before Us, until the 19 instant, We

cannot therefore transmit your Honrs Balance

Accompt to a later date, than the 28 of Feby

last.

7 Mr Halls applied to Us to pay

£85.— into your Cash, which we have received

& given him Bills of Exchange drawn on

your Honrs for that Sum payable to Mr

Thos Partricro or Order 90 Days after sight,

dated the 5 instant.

8 We have put on board the Ship Hawke

Custaren & Wilson & on the Raley Three

5․ The passengers on board these ships were as follows. Captain Evenant, Captain Dent of His Majesty’s Navy, Lieutenant Sandham, Lieutenant Manwel, Mr Caulk, Major Smith, Captain Smith of the 111th Regiment, Mr Swing, Major Cockle of the 111th Regiment, Mr Halwell, Captain White, Mr Burnham of the 111th Regiment, and Mr Stevenson, all being on board the Raley.

6․ In the account for the last quarter, deductions had not been made until the 19th instant. For this reason, the balance account could not be transmitted to a later date than the 28th of February last.

7․ Mr Halls applied to pay the sum of £85 s 0 d into the Company’s cash. This sum was received, and Bills of Exchange were issued, drawn on the Company, payable to Mr Thomas Partricro, or order, ninety days after sight, dated the 5th instant.

8․ Custaren and Wilson were put on board the Hawke, and three men were placed on board the Raley.

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Stephen Dawes, George Howard, & John Proton &

two discharged Soldiers to complete her Company

9 And have given Capt Hembaen Orders to

receive on board his Ship, Thos Bearce a discharged

Soldier Peterson Green Soldier Robs Burnett Dr

from Bengal who was left here out of the Ship

Latham, all three Invalids, & have paid them

£13.— for their Passages. We have likewise

given him a permission to receive on board the

Leatham Eliz Legutato Wife & Benj two other

discharged Men, they have all signed an

instrument as you have been pleased to direct

that they will not demand any Wages for their

Voyage Home, which We transmit herewith

together with the Surgeons Certificate respect

to the Invalids. The Dr we have paid for 7

Weeks more Passage together with the Sum of

£7.16.11 for 268 Days at 6 £ Day Subsistence

in the Hospital. We suppose will be repaid you

by the Owners of the Latham.

10 The wecks on your by your Shop Hawke

that sails from hence in Company with the Raley

We are

St Helena Honble Sirs

1 April 1762 your most Obedt & most humble

Servants

Signed Chs Hutchinson

John Skottowe

John Clarke

M. Curling

```

9․ Captain Hembaen was given orders to receive on board his ship Thomas Bearce, a discharged soldier, Peterson Green, a soldier, and Robert Burnett, a doctor from Bengal who had been left on the island from the Latham. All three were invalids, and the sum of £13 s 0 d was paid for their passages. Permission was also granted to receive on board the Leatham Elizabeth Legutato, wife, and Benjamin, two further discharged men. All these persons signed an instrument, as previously directed, declaring that they would not demand any wages for their voyage home. This instrument is transmitted herewith, together with the surgeon’s certificate relating to the invalids. The doctor was additionally paid for seven weeks’ further passage, together with the sum of £7 s 16 d 11 d for two hundred and sixty eight days’ subsistence in the hospital at six pence per day. It was presumed that these sums would be repaid by the owners of the Latham.

10․ This letter was sent by the ship Hawke, which sailed from St Helena in company with the Raley.

St Helena
1 April 1762

Signed
Charles Hutchinson
John Skottowe
John Clarke
M. Curling

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```

List of the Honble Companys Packet from St Helena

p Ship Hawke dated the 1 Aprl 1762 viz:

N:1 Gov & Councls Genl Letr dated 1st Aprl 1762

2 Duplicate Do & Do dated 18 Feby Do

3 Consult from 22 Feby & to 1 April Do

4 Duplicate Do from 13 to 18 Febr Do

5 Servt Rect for the Packet of His Majestys Ship Esperanze

6 Secondt Do for Do of His Majestys Shop Aldernay

7 List of Queen Servts taken 6 April 1762

8 Do of 11 Discharged Soldiers

9 Duplicate List of the Packets of His Majestys Ship Esperanze

10 Stocksoe State of the Garrison

11 Muster Rolls of Do

12 Govr Letr to the Secret Committee

13 Ship Hawke Acct

14 Do Raley Do

15 Duplicate Ship Warwick Do

16 Cash Acct from 19 to the 28 Feby 1762

17 Duplicate Do from 13 to 18 Do Do

18 Sir Thos Mann Second Bill of Exchange & Letter

of Advice

19 Capt Dawans Second Receipts for £130

20 Instrument in Writing from 5 Discharged Men

21 Abstract of the Cargoes of Ship Hawke & Raley

22 Surgeons Certificate of two Invalid Soldiers

23 Capt Halls Receipt for £85

```

List of the Honourable Company’s packets from St Helena, sent by the ship Hawke, dated 1 April 1762.

N:1 Governor and Council General Letter, dated 1 April 1762

2 Duplicate of the Governor and Council General Letter, dated 18 February 1762

3 Consultations from 22 February 1762 to 1 April 1762

4 Duplicate of the Consultations from 13 February 1762 to 18 February 1762

5 Servant’s receipt for the packets sent by His Majesty’s Ship Esperanze

6 Second servant’s receipt for the packets sent by His Majesty’s Ship Aldernoy

7 List of the Queen’s servants taken on 6 April 1762

8 List of eleven discharged soldiers

9 Duplicate list of the packets sent by His Majesty’s Ship Esperanze

10 Storehouse state of the garrison

11 Muster rolls of the garrison

12 Governor’s letter to the Secret Committee

13 Account of the ship Hawke

14 Account of the ship Raley

15 Duplicate account of the ship Warwick

16 Cash account from 19 February 1762 to 28 February 1762

17 Duplicate cash account from 13 February 1762 to 18 February 1762

18 Sir Thomas Mann’s second bill of exchange, with letter of advice

19 Captain Dawes’s second receipt for £130 s 0 d

20 Instrument in writing from five discharged men

21 Abstract of the cargoes of the ships Hawke and Raley

22 Surgeon’s certificate for two invalid soldiers

23 Captain Hall’s receipt for £85 s 0 d

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P. the Honble the Court

of the

Honble Sirs

Our last Adrest to You went by your

Honrs Ship Hawke, who to sailed from hence the 1

instant, in company with the Raley

The 4 we received 3 Private Ships from

Bengal, last from the Cape, we had the honar of

Letters Capt Rafer Lord Livillen 15th Cork arrive

27 Guns, & of an Indiaman with Bengal sends them

to London

Richard acquaints Us, that he left

His Majestys Ships York, Stretch and at the

Cape & that with were near Rigg. He likewise tells

Us a French fifty four fhier Ships but the 28 only

night months, was also at that Place, & that

he was informed that three Sengals had been

sent from the Islands in discovery a Almeade

Cominho Stocke.

We are

St Helena Honble Sirs

1 April 1762 Your most Obedt & most humble

Servants

Signed

Chs Hutchinson

John Skottowe

John Clarke

```

To the Honourable the Court

Honourable Sirs

The last address was sent by the Honourable Company’s ship Hawke, which sailed from this place on the 1st instant in company with the Raley.

On the 4th instant three private ships arrived from Bengal, having last come from the Cape. Letters were received by Captain Rafer, Lord Livillen, dated the 15th ultimo. One vessel, mounting twenty-seven guns, arrived on the 27th, and another Indiaman from Bengal was bound for London.

Captain Richard reported that he had left His Majesty’s ships York, Stretch and others at the Cape, where they were lying ready for departure. He further reported that a French ship of fifty-four guns was also at that place, though she had been there only about eight months. He stated that he had been informed that three vessels had been sent from the islands on a reconnaissance towards Almeida and the Cominho Stock.

We are

St Helena
1 April 1762

Your most obedient and most humble servants

Signed

Chas Hutchinson
John Skottowe
John Clarke

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```

To the Honble the Court

of the

Honble Sirs

1 We Addressed you last by a Private

Ship called the King of Pettsa, which sailed from

hence the 11 of May

2 On the 15 of this same Month arrived a

Dane Ship from China, dated the King of

Denmark, Capt Dranies Anshon about 300 Ton

amps 24 Guns, & 160 Men loaden with Tea &

Silkreturned bound to Copenhagen

3 The 22 of last Month, arrived your

Ships Neptune & Bird & the 24 the Permanon

Duke of Richmond, Rocols, Augusta, Bristol,

Rochfort, & Victory all from China. The

last acquaints Us, they sailed from Canton the

20 of Octr last, & that they left the Percy

George, Worcester there expect Governerg and

to be dispatched about the middle of Jany &

4 Capt John Clark hath resigned your Honrs

Service, & has Passage to England upon the Ship

Neptune for the recovery of his Health

5 We have given Capt Bunting a permission

to receive on board his Ship Wm A Neaby a

discharged Soldier, he has signed an instrument

that he will not demand any Wages for his

Passage Home which goes herewith

```

To the Honourable the Court
of the

Honourable Sirs

1․ The last address was sent by a private vessel named the King of Pettsa, which sailed from this place on 11 May.

2․ On the 15th of the same month a Danish ship arrived from China, named the King of Denmark, Captain Dranies Anshon commanding, of about 300 tons burthen, mounting 24 guns and carrying 160 men, laden with tea and silk and bound for Copenhagen.

3․ On the 22nd of the preceding month the Honourable Company’s ships Neptune and Bird arrived, and on the 24th the Permanon, Duke of Richmond, Rocols, Augusta, Bristol, Rochfort and Victory, all from China. The commanders reported that they had sailed from Canton on 20 October last and that they had left the Percy, George and Worcester there, which were expected to be dispatched about the middle of January.

4․ Captain John Clark resigned the Honourable Company’s service and took passage to England on board the Neptune for the recovery of his health.

5․ Captain Bunting was granted permission to receive on board his ship William Neaby, a discharged soldier. An instrument was signed by the said Neaby declaring that no wages would be demanded for the passage home, which was transmitted herewith.

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6 We have granted the following Bills of

Exchange drawn on your Honrs viz & One Set

to Capt John Clark, for £600.— payable to

himself or Order One Set to Mr Robt Howard

for £115.— payable to Mr C.A.R. Steward or

Order One Set to Capt Bunting for £100

payable to himself or Order One Set to Capt

Sr Jackson for £50.— payable to himself

or Order And one Set to Mr John Bland for

£90.— payable to Mr Richard Combd or Order

all drawn at 90 Days sight, & dated the 3

instant.

7 We have had but a very indifferent

Summer Season, but from the present appearance

of the weather, flatter ourselves this Rains will

be more favorable in the Winter. We are sorry to

acquaint you, that the disorder among the Cattle

still continues.

8 This Letter with on your by the Neptune

which leaves this Place in company with the

Ships Bird & Duke of Richmond.

We are

St Helena Honble Sirs

3 May 1762 Your most Obedt & most humble

Servants Signed

Chs Hutchinson

John Skottowe

John Clarke

M. Curling

```

6․ The following bills of exchange were granted, all drawn on the Honourable Company at 90 days sight and dated 3 May 1762: one set to Captain John Clark for £600, payable to himself or order; one set to Mr Robert Howard for £115, payable to Mr C. A. R. Steward or order; one set to Captain Bunting for £100, payable to himself or order; one set to Captain Sir Jackson for £50, payable to himself or order; and one set to Mr John Bland for £90, payable to Mr Richard Combd or order.

7․ The summer season had proved very indifferent, but from the present appearance of the weather it was hoped that the winter rains would be more favourable. It was regretted that the disorder among the cattle still continued.

8․ This letter was sent by the Neptune, which sailed from this place in company with the Bird and the Duke of Richmond.

 
St Helena
3 May 1762

The Honourable Court was respectfully informed by

Charles Hutchinson
John Skottowe
John Clarke
M. Curling

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```

List of the Honble Companys Packet from St Helena

p Ships Neptune & Bird dated the 3 May 1762 viz:

N:1 Gov & Councls Genl Letr dated 3 May 1762

2 Duplicate Do & Do dated 1 April Do

3 Do Do & Do dated 18 Feby Do

4 Consult from 1st April to 3 May Do

5 Duplicate Do from 22 Feby to 1 April Do

6 Servt Receipt for the Packet of Ship Hawke

7 Secondt Do of His Majestys Ship Esperanze

8 List of Queen Servts taken 3 May 1762

9 Do one discharged Soldier

10 Duplicate List of the Packets of Ship Hawke

11 Stocksoe State of the Garrison

12 Govr Letter to the Secret Committee

13 Cash Acct for the Month of March 1762

14 Do Do for the Month of April Do

15 Do Do from the 1 to 3 May Do

16 Duplicate Do from the 28 Feby Do

17 Abstract of the Cargoes of Ships Neptune, Bird

Duke of Richmond, & Feilstoff, Permanon, Rochford,

Bristol, Victory & Prince of Augusta

18 Instrument in Writing from disbdSoldr a Dishchd Sdr

19 Duplicate Capt Hembane Receipt for £13

20 Do Ship Hawke Acct

21 Do Do Raley Do

22 Ship Nettalees Do

23 Do Bird Do

24 Do Duke of Richmond Do

```

List of the Honourable Company’s packets from St Helena, sent by the ships Neptune and Bird, dated 3 May 1762.

N:1 Governor and Council’s General Letter dated 3 May 1762

2 Duplicate of the Governor and Council’s General Letter dated 1 April 1762

3 Duplicate of the Governor and Council’s General Letter dated 18 February 1762

4 Consultations from 1 April to 3 May 1762

5 Duplicate consultations from 22 February to 1 April 1762

6 Servant’s receipt for the packet sent by the ship Hawke

7 Second servant’s receipt for the packet sent by His Majesty’s ship Esperanze

8 List of the Queen’s servants taken on 3 May 1762

9 List of one discharged soldier

10 Duplicate list of the packets sent by the ship Hawke

11 Stock state of the garrison

12 Governor’s letter to the Secret Committee

13 Cash account for the month of March 1762

14 Cash account for the month of April 1762

15 Cash account from 1 May to 3 May 1762

16 Duplicate cash account from 28 February 1762

17 Abstract of the cargoes of the ships Neptune, Bird, Duke of Richmond, Feilstoff, Permanon, Rochford, Bristol, Victory and Prince of Augusta

18 Instrument in writing from one disbanded soldier and one discharged soldier

19 Duplicate of Captain Hembane’s receipt for £13 0s 0d

20 Duplicate account of the ship Hawke

21 Duplicate account of the ship Raley

22 Account of the ship Nettalees

23 Account of the ship Bird

24 Account of the ship Duke of Richmond

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```

To the Honble the Court

of the

Honble Sirs

1 We imbraced you last by two Ships Nepalmed

which sailed from hence the 3 instant, in company

with your Ships Bird & Duke of Richmond

2 Mr Capt John Clerk proceeded to England

upon the Ship Neptune, Capt A. Fitzpatrick

succeeded to the Council, agreeable to your Honrs

directions

3 By the absence of so pite lank stephens

Permission being vacant, we therefore attended

Lieut John Howard who is the oldest Lineute

to succeed part.

4 We have put on board the Permanon

Saml Springall, Hump Bugh, Dav Hick, Thos

Hickman, Alfred Satent, & Major Duncklarden

discharged Men towards completing her Company

We likewise ordered Guida Forman Soldier a fower

sent here some years ago from Bombay in

board the Fairmanon, he being a Pridonor former,

& was sentenced by a Generall Court Martialheid

on the 7 & 8 of 5 Days of Feby last to be

punished, & Dismissed out of the Garrison with

after about his Neck.

```

1․ The Court had last been addressed by the two ships Neptune and Bird, which sailed from St Helena on the 3 instant in company with the ship Duke of Richmond.

2․ Captain John Clark proceeded to England on board the ship Neptune. Captain A. Fitzpatrick succeeded him as a member of Council, in accordance with the Court’s directions.

3․ By reason of the absence of Captain Stephens, whose appointment was thereby vacant, Lieutenant John Howard, being the senior lieutenant, was appointed to succeed him.

4․ There were placed on board the ship Permanon Samuel Springall, Humphrey Bugg, David Hick, Thomas Hickman, Alfred Sargent and Major Dunklarden, all discharged men, towards completing her company. Guido Foreman, a soldier who had been sent from Bombay some years earlier on board the Permanon, was likewise ordered on board. He had formerly been a prisoner and had been sentenced by a General Court Martial held on the 7 and 8 February last to be punished and dismissed from the garrison, with the mark to be worn about his neck.

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5 We have also put on board the Permanon,

Wm Law an furled belonging to His Majestys

Navy who was sent here by Capt Dennis upon

a Borbirin Ship from the Cape. In consideration

of these package we paid Capt Hutchenson

£3.— and have also now subsisted sum 60 Deys

in the Hospital at 6 £ Day amounting to £1.10.8

both which Sums will be repaid you by the

Commissioners of His Majestys Navy as you will

please to observe in Capto Lynne Letter to his

Honrs a Copy of which goes herewith

6 We have granted the following Bills of

Exchange, drawn on your Honrs viz & One Set

to Mr Richard Munual for £150.— payable to

himself or Order dated the 10 instant, & 90 Days

sight, One Set to Mr Pitkin Botham for £117.—

payable to himself or Order, One Set to Capt &

Simon Bonham for £185.— payable to himself

or Order One Set to Capt & Baliscom for

£130.— payable to himself or Order, And one

Set to Mr John Haver for £10.— payable to

himself or Order, all dated the 14 instant, and

drawn at 90 Days sight.

7 We are sorry to acquaint you, that the

Store Ships is not yet arrived, & that we shall

in a very short time be in great want of

Salt Provision, Flower, & all other necessaries

```

5․ William Law, a furloughed seaman belonging to His Majesty’s Navy, was also placed on board the ship Permanon. He had been sent to St Helena by Captain Dennis in a Barbary vessel from the Cape. For his passage, the sum of £3 was paid to Captain Hutchinson. He had also been maintained for sixty days in the hospital at a rate of 6 pence per day, amounting to £1 10s 8d. Both sums were expected to be repaid by the Commissioners of His Majesty’s Navy, as appeared from Captain Lynne’s letter to their Honours, a copy of which was transmitted herewith.

6․ The following Bills of Exchange were granted, drawn on their Honours, namely: one set to Mr Richard Munual for £150, payable to himself or order, dated the 10 instant and payable ninety days after sight; one set to Mr Pitkin Botham for £117, payable to himself or order; one set to Captain Simon Bonham for £185, payable to himself or order; one set to Captain Baliscorn for £130, payable to himself or order; and one set to Mr John Haver for £10, payable to himself or order. All were dated the 14 instant and drawn at ninety days after sight.

7․ It was regretted to report that the store ships had not yet arrived and that, within a short time, there would be a serious deficiency of salt provisions, flour and other necessary supplies.

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8 You will receive this Letter by your Honourn

Ship Permanon, that sails from hence in company

with the Nopple, & Prince Augusta.

We are

Honble Sirs

Your most Obedt & most humble

St Helena Servants

17 May 1762 Signed

Chs Hutchinson

John Skottowe

M. Curling

The Fishwick

List of the Honble Companys Packet from St Helena

p Ship Permanon, dated the 17 May 1762 viz:

N:1 Gov & Councls Generalt Letter dated 17 May 1762

2 Duplicate Do & Do dated 3 Do Do

3 Consult from 4 to the 17 Do Do

4 Duplicate Do from the 3 April to 3 Do Do

5 Servt Reciept for the Packets of Ships Neptune

6 Secondt Do for Do of Birk Hawke

7 List of Queen & Servants taken 17 May 1762

8 Do of 7 discharged Soldiers

9 Duplicate List of the Packets of Ship Neptune

10 Stocksoe State of the Garrison

11 Governors Letter to the Secret Committee

```

8․ This letter was forwarded by their Honours’ ship Permanon, which sailed from St Helena in company with the Nopple and the Prince Augusta.

St Helena
17 May 1762

Honble Sirs

Your most obedient and most humble servants

Signed
Chs Hutchinson
John Skottowe
M. Curling
The Fishwick

List of the Honble Companys Packets from St Helena, sent by the ship Permanon, dated the 17 May 1762, viz.

N:1 Governor and Council’s General Letter dated 17 May 1762

2 Duplicate of the Governor and Council’s General Letter dated 3 May 1762

3 Consultations from the 4th to the 17th of May 1762

4 Duplicate Consultations from the 3rd of April to the 3rd of May 1762

5 Servants’ Receipt for the Packets sent by the ships Neptune

6 Second Servants’ Receipt for the same, sent by the ship Hawke

7 List of Company servants taken on the 17 May 1762

8 List of seven discharged soldiers

9 Duplicate List of the Packets sent by the ship Neptune

10 Stock state of the garrison

11 Governor’s Letter to the Secret Committee

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87V

12․ Cash Acco from the 6th to 7th May 1762
13․ Duplicate Do from the Month of March Do
14․ Do Do for the Month of April Do
15․ Do Do from the 1st to the 5th May Do
16․ Ship Leamington Acco
17․ Do Do the Prince George Do
18․ Do Do the Princess Augusta Do
19․ Duplicate Ship Neptune Do
20․ Do Ship Eagle Do
21․ Do Ship Duke of Richmond Do
22․ List of Garrison Stores sent 7th March 1762
23․ Do of Provisions in the Island brought March 1762
24․ Do of Artillery Stores from 30th Jany 1761 to 3d March 1762
25․ Indent of Stores wanted for the Service of the Year 1763
26․ Do of Medicines wanted for Do
27․ Copy of Capt. Kynners letter to the Govr
28․ Capt. Leathomans Probl Receipts from 25

12․ Cash Account from 6 May to 7 May 1762

13․ Duplicate Cash Account for the month of March 1762

14․ Duplicate Cash Account for the month of April 1762

15․ Duplicate Cash Account from 1 May to 5 May 1762

16․ Ship Leamington Account

17․ Ship Prince George Account

18․ Ship Princess Augusta Account

19․ Duplicate Ship Neptune Account

20․ Duplicate Ship Eagle Account

21․ Duplicate Ship Duke of Richmond Account

22․ List of Garrison Stores sent 7 March 1762

23․ List of Provisions in the Island brought March 1762

24․ List of Artillery Stores from 30 January 1761 to 3 March 1762

25․ Indent of Stores wanted for the service of the year 1763

26․ Indent of Medicines wanted for the service of the year 1763

27․ Copy of Captain Kynner’s letter to the Governor

28․ Captain Leathomans Provisional Receipts from 25

179

88R

To the Honble Geo
Council Sir

1․ Our last Advices were to acquaint you that your Ship
Leamington which sailed from hence the 17th of May, in
company with the Norfolk & Somerset, arrived safe.
On the 21st past, also the named Ship arrived here wth
the Succourance from England, & the 10 instant your
Ship Royal Charlotte, from Barbadoes received by her
convoyance, shall be duly Answered & complied with. Its
gives Us great pleasure to find all your Ships of
last Season arrived safe, except the Graft, which was
captured we were concerned to hear of. The approbation
your Honrs have been pleased to give of the Advices
relative to your Affairs contained in our several
Letters of last Year, demands our care in continuing
to communicate the same interesting Intelligence
in future.

3․ The continuance of the Successes attending
His Majesty’s Arms the last Year, give Us infinite
pleasure, & we sincerely hope the same good fortune will
always attend them during the present War, which
cannot fail to force our Enemies at last to come to
just & equitable Terms of Peace.

4․ We heartily congratulate your Honors upon the
Immense advantage your Settlements in the West Indies

This was a letter addressed to the Court of Directors of the East India Company, written from St Helena and dated 10 June 1762.

1․ In their last advices the Governor and Council had informed the East India Company that the ship Leamington, which had sailed from St Helena 17 May in company with the Norfolk and Somerset, had arrived safely. On 21 of the preceding month that vessel had returned to St Helena with stores and assistance from England. On 10 June 1762 the ship Royal Charlotte arrived from Barbadoes. The letters received by those conveyances had been opened, and it was stated that they would be duly answered and complied with. The writers expressed particular satisfaction that all the Company’s ships of the previous season had arrived safely, with the exception of the Grafton, whose capture had caused regret. They acknowledged the Court’s approval of the intelligence previously transmitted and affirmed that the same diligence would be maintained in conveying useful and material information in future.

3․ The continued successes of His Majesty’s arms during the preceding year were said to have given the greatest satisfaction at St Helena. It was further observed that there was sincere hope that similar good fortune would attend the British forces throughout the present war, and that such success would in due course oblige the enemy to accept just and equitable terms of peace.

4․ The letter also conveyed warm congratulations to the East India Company on the considerable advantages obtained by its settlements in the West Indies.

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and on the prospect that appears of soon reestablishg
your Servants there.

5․ We shall agreeable to your directions, return
your thanks to Admiral Cornish & Colonel Forde & to
Monson & Mr Biggs, for the great Share they took in
the reduction of that important Settlement of
Pondicherry, in case any of those Gentlemen should
call here, before that Compliment has been paid
them in India.

6․ All Orders & instructions received from
the secret Committee, or any three of those gentlemen
shall be punctually Attended to & obeyed.

7․ The Ships you have taken up your Service
for carrying on your Commerce the present Year,
We sincerely hope will be prosperous returned to your
Honors in due Time in safety & with Success.

8․ We Observe the Ships you employed for
carrying on your Trade this season, are taken up
on the same Terms & Conditions, as those of the
last. We shall carefully Attend to the Charterpartys
with regard to the short deliveries & Damages and
you may depend upon our dispatching the Royal
Charlotte within the time limited.

9․ Notwithstanding your Orders to the
Commanders to supply themselves with double Stock
for their Voyage Home, We do not find their
demands for fresh Provisions are at all beyond.
They have required no Wine for such this season.

This formed part of a letter addressed to the Court of Directors of the East India Company, written from St Helena and dated 10 June 1762.

4․ The writers further expressed satisfaction at the favourable prospect of the Company’s servants being soon re-established in the West Indies, following the advantages already obtained there.

5․ In obedience to prior instructions, it was stated that thanks would be returned to Admiral Cornish, Colonel Forde, Monson and Mr Biggs for the distinguished part they had borne in the reduction of Pondicherry, should any of those gentlemen call at St Helena before receiving such acknowledgment in India.

6․ Assurance was given that all orders and instructions received from the Secret Committee, or from any three of its members, would be punctually attended to and obeyed.

7․ The ships engaged in the Company’s service for the current year’s commerce were wished a prosperous voyage, with the hope that they would return safely and successfully in due time.

8․ It was observed that the vessels employed for the present season were engaged on the same terms and conditions as those of the preceding year. Particular attention would therefore be paid to the charterparties in respect of short delivery and damages. The Court was assured that the Royal Charlotte would be dispatched within the stipulated time.

9․ Although commanders had been directed to provide themselves with double stores for their homeward passage, it was reported that their demands for fresh provisions had not exceeded expectation. No wine had been requested for that purpose during the season.

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as We have found sufficient to supply them.

10․ We shall constantly send all the Commanders
of your Ships with the Orders respecting Deserters
either from the Islands or their Ships, which if duly
complied with by themselves their Officers we make no
doubt but the practice of Desertion will in a great
measure, if not effectually be prevented. We shall
likewise inform them that their disobedience in
these respects will be heavily resented by your Honors
& the penalties they will incur in breach of Charter
& acts (Covenants relative) thereto will with rigour
be exacted.

11․ We have acquainted Capt Ellwood & Mr
Steed, with your Orders relating to them, & shall
allow each of them Eight Days for the time of their
necessarily being on Shore.

12․ Capt Ellwood acquaints Us that he is
inclined to stay another year, or it may be longer,
when ever you the command of the Mercury are
will in Obedience to your Positive Orders, appoint Mr
John Merryweather in case we find him hitherto
merits ch to succeed him, & administers to him the
Oaths Oath for the faithful discharge of his Duty.

13․ We shall punctually follow your directions
relating to any Persons that may be left here
out of His Majestys Ships in future.

14․ If any of the Petty Officers & Seamen
of the Mercury now & Elizabether, should be

9․ It was reported that sufficient provisions had been found to meet the commanders’ demands.

10․ It was stated that all commanders of the Company’s ships would regularly be furnished with the standing orders concerning deserters, whether from the Island or from their own vessels. If those orders were properly enforced by captains and their officers, it was believed that desertion would in great measure, if not entirely, be prevented. The commanders would also be reminded that any disobedience in this respect would be severely resented, and that penalties arising from breaches of charter and related covenants would be strictly exacted.

11․ Captain Ellwood and Mr Steed had been informed of the Court’s orders relating to them. Each would be allowed eight days for the period necessarily spent on shore.

12․ Captain Ellwood had indicated a willingness to remain for another year, or possibly longer. Whenever he relinquished command of the Mercury, and in obedience to positive instructions, Mr John Merryweather would be appointed to succeed him, provided his conduct continued to merit such advancement. The necessary oath for the faithful discharge of his duty would then be administered.

13․ Assurance was given that directions concerning any persons left at St Helena from His Majesty’s ships in future would be strictly followed.

14․ It was noted that, should any petty officers or seamen belonging to the Mercury or the Elizabeth be left behind on the Island, they would be dealt with in accordance with the established regulations and instructions previously communicated.

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uneasy in their Situation, & in our power to make
them Tranquil. We shall take the most eligible
methods to do so, giving Instructions to those that may
exchange with them, or relieving them with further
indulgencies, as we apprehend may meet with your
approbation.

15․ Government Ballas the two Mate of the
Mercury having applied to Us, to return home by
the Ship Dorno Henry, & Capt Hagger giving
another Person in exchange. We have in consequence
of your Orders permitted them to resign, & have
appointed Lieut Lofthouse to succeed one Mate
the being recommended by Capt Hagger, & approved
of by Capt Ellwood. We have also exchanged
Charles Newberry Cook, for John Gagger. The
Mercury being likewise short of her Complement
Capt Hagger gave us Obligations as to share with
Bennett & Edward Cook, towards compleating her
Company.

16․ We are always particularly careful in
framing our Indents, not to ask for any thing but
what is absolutely necessary; & although large
quantities did appear on hand at that time, yet
your Honrs have been pleased to allow for the
consumption of the Year, you would have found
but a small remainder at the expiration of it.

14․ If any petty officers or seamen had appeared uneasy in their situation, and it had been within the power of the Government to render them more content, the most suitable measures would have been taken. This would have included arranging exchanges where practicable, or granting such reasonable indulgences as might be thought consistent with approval.

15․ Government Ballas and the two mates of the Mercury applied for permission to return home aboard the Dorno Henry, Captain Hagger proposing a substitute in exchange. In consequence of prior instructions, their resignations were permitted. Lieutenant Lofthouse, having been recommended by Captain Hagger and approved by Captain Ellwood, was appointed to succeed as mate. Charles Newberry, cook, was likewise exchanged for John Gagger. As the Mercury remained short of her full complement, Captain Hagger entered into obligations regarding Bennett and Edward Cook towards completing her company.

16․ Particular care was always taken in preparing indents, so that nothing was requested beyond what was strictly necessary. Although at first sight considerable quantities of stores appeared to remain on hand, once allowance was made for the year’s consumption, only a small balance would have been found at its close.

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have only twelve Barrels of Flour, & their none scarce of
Salt Provisions, & if we had not fortunately met with an
oppty of purchasing some of each sort, we should have
been quite without. And it is with great concern, we now
assure you, that the 100 Barrels of Flour come, will not
be sufficient to last Us, above four Months. And we
leave it to your Honrs consideration, whether it will
not be quite necessary for Us in this time of War to
have in Advance here a Store of Flour, & Salt Provisions,
sufficient for a years consumption, which amounts
to about 300 Barrels of Flour & near the same Number
of Casks of Salt Provisions, each containing 80 pieces
of the provisions, should a Store Ship mis carry, great
parts of the Cattle must unavoidably be slaughtered
for the support of the Garrison, & consequently there
can be but very few for your Ships. Whenever it can
be done, we shall Order the Stores received by the Store
Ships, to be inserted in the Store of Remains, but as
there must be a fixed Time for making up these Acco:
& it requires some Space, to prepare them for the
Packets, & the late arrival of active Ships renders
it impossible to be done, consistent with our transmitting
the Indents early enough to you, for the supply of
the ensuing Year, We have always the debts of
Remains before Us, when we make out our Indents,
& therefore for these reasons we flatter ourselves
your Honrs will be pleased to Order our Indents to
be complied with.

17․ At that time there remained only twelve barrels of flour, and scarcely any salt provisions. Had an opportunity not fortunately arisen to purchase a small quantity of each, the settlement would have been entirely without supply. It was therefore represented, with much concern, that the one hundred barrels of flour then expected would not suffice for more than four months’ consumption. Consideration was invited as to whether, in time of war, it was not absolutely necessary to maintain in advance a store of flour and salt provisions sufficient for one year’s use. This would require approximately three hundred barrels of flour and nearly the same number of casks of salt provisions, each cask containing eighty pieces. Should a store ship miscarry, a considerable number of cattle must inevitably be slaughtered for the support of the garrison, leaving very few available to refresh the Company’s ships.

18․ Whenever practicable, the stores received from store ships were entered into the Store of Remains. However, as there must be a fixed date for closing the accounts, and some time was required to prepare them for transmission, the late arrival of vessels often rendered it impossible to complete this work while still forwarding the indents in sufficient time to secure supply for the ensuing year. The state of remains was nevertheless always before the Board when the indents were prepared. For these reasons it was confidently hoped that the indents would be complied with in full.

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17․ As we hope to get Cash sufficient to
answer the expences of the current Year, We shall
Transmit the two Chests of Treasury belonging to Us
to your Supra Cargoes at Canton, with Invoice
& Bill of Lading.

18․ If we should find it necessary to alter
our Indents to Pheang, we shall apprize your
Supra Cargoes thereof by the Royal Charlotte.

19․ We are glad from Sr you have been pleased
to Order the Sum Carriages we Indented for, to be
made of Oak, instead of Elm as were recommended,
they will be much more serviceable; And we will
in future, give you at least a Years Notice
when we shall be in want of any more, that they
may be well seasoned, which is very material
in this respect.

20․ Our request for Deals & Timber was
absolutely necessary, & the want of them will be
attended with great inconvenience. You will be
pleased to Observe that we have hardly sufficient
in the Store to make Casks for the current Year,
therefore utterly unable to keep up the repairs or
carry on Works that requires those materials. We
for these reasons beg you will direct our full
Indents in these Articles to be sent the next Year.
And the proper sort of Steel.

21․ We lately upon the Method we took in
purchasing of Salt Provisions by the piece from

17․ It was expected that sufficient cash would be raised to meet the expenses of the current year. Accordingly, the two chests of treasure belonging to the settlement were to be transmitted to the Company’s supercargoes at Canton, accompanied by invoice and bill of lading.

18․ Should any alteration to the indents for Penang prove necessary, notice would be given to the supercargoes by the ship Royal Charlotte.

19․ Satisfaction was expressed that the gun carriages ordered had been directed to be made of oak rather than elm, as previously recommended. Oak would render them far more durable and serviceable. In future, at least one year’s notice would be given before further supplies were required, so that the timber might be properly seasoned, which was of great importance.

20․ The request for deals and timber had been made from absolute necessity, and the continued want of these materials would cause serious inconvenience. There was scarcely enough in store to make the casks required for the current year, leaving no capacity to maintain repairs or proceed with works that depended upon such materials. It was therefore earnestly requested that the full indents for these articles be supplied in the coming year, together with the proper sort of steel.

21․ A new method had recently been adopted in purchasing salt provisions by the piece rather than by the cask. This was found advantageous, as it allowed better inspection of quality and prevented the loss that sometimes arose from inferior packing or damaged contents.

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the Commanders was preferable to buying it by weight,
as we sell it by Tale. If we are convinced cannot
hereby be imposed upon. We always have purchased
it at as much cheaper rate, than what it comes
invoiced at from England.

22․ We shall continue the method of inspecting
the Stores by two of the Council Annually, & shall sell at
Publick Auction all such goods that appear to be
damaged. We never Order any Item to be wrote off
for Wastage, Leakage &c but what appears to Us
to be reasonable, & just, & the Storekeepers assures
Us is unavoidable.

23․ We have recd your Orders respecting the white
power to hold Courts Civil & Criminals, & that of Oyer
& Terminer, which we shall endeavour to put into
execution. We have not time at present to answer
your Letter on this Subject, but will do it by some
future conveyance, & in the mean time have forwarded
your Records, & will transmit you a Copy of the
Laws & Constitutions of the Island, as you have been
pleased to direct. It is impossible that either the
Secretary, or any of your Servants, from the multiplicity
of the Companys Business they have to go through,
with, can attend as Clerks to those Courts, therefore
shall be much at a loss for a person properly
qualified, & acquainted with the former Methods
of such proceedings, & beg that you will be
pleased to send Us one fit for the purpose, by the

21․ Purchasing salt provisions directly from the Commanders by the piece had proved preferable to buying by weight, as the provisions were sold by tale. By this method there was little risk of imposition, and they had generally been obtained at a lower rate than the invoice price from England.

22․ The annual inspection of stores by two members of Council would be continued. Any goods found damaged would be sold by public auction. Nothing would be written off for wastage, leakage or similar causes unless it clearly appeared reasonable and unavoidable, as certified by the Storekeeper.

23․ The orders granting authority to hold Civil and Criminal Courts, including Courts of Oyer and Terminer, had been received and would be put into execution. There had not been time to respond fully on this subject, but a reply would follow by a future conveyance. The records had already been forwarded, and a copy of the Island’s laws and constitutions would also be transmitted as directed. Owing to the volume of Company business, neither the Secretary nor other servants could attend as clerks to these courts. It would therefore be difficult to find a suitably qualified person familiar with established procedures, and it was requested that a proper clerk be sent for that purpose by the next opportunity.

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fit & opportunity, whom the vacant Times of Law
Matters, may be usefully & fully employed in your
Service.

24․ We are sorry to acquaint your Honors that
the disorder among the Cattle, has not in the least
abated, gave us under the greatest apprehensions
of its continuance, as we can find no remedy or
secure for them. We shall take all opportunities of
sending to the Cape for Cattle, but with all the
Assistance we can have are much afraid that
we shall find great difficulty in supplying your
Ships with fresh Provisions the next Season in the
manner we could wish, if all of them should touch
here. We received the Canary Seeds you were pleased
to send Us, which in appearance seems to be the
same sort, as that grows here, for your satisfaction
we will send you some of it, when a proper Season
comes, for procuring them the Seeds, but we are now
of opinion that the Distemper among the Cattle
do not proceed from eating that Grass, as they die
all over the Island in parts where none of it
ever grows.

25․ The kind concern your Honrs hath been
pleased to express upon hearing of the inflammatory
disorder raging in the Island last Year, occasions
in Us the warmest gratitude, & Thanks for
so tender a regard.

23․ It had been requested that a properly qualified person be sent, who, during intervals when there was no court business, might be fully and usefully employed in the Company’s service.

24․ It was with regret reported that the disorder among the cattle had not in the least abated, which gave the greatest apprehension of its continuance, as no remedy or preventative had been discovered. Every opportunity would be taken to procure cattle from the Cape, yet even with such assistance there was serious concern that difficulty would arise in supplying the Company’s ships with fresh provisions in the coming season, should they all touch at the Island. The Canary seed sent had been received and appeared to be the same variety as that growing locally. Seeds would be forwarded at a suitable season for examination. It was now believed that the distemper did not arise from that grass, since cattle were dying in parts of the Island where none of it grew.

25․ The expression of concern regarding the inflammatory disorder that had prevailed on the Island the previous year was received with sincere gratitude and thanks for such consideration.

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26․ We shall take care to prevent as much as
possible the Desertion of Slaves from hence, And are
glad you are determined when they come under your
Cognizance, to return them again to the Island,
which in our opinion will be the most effectual
Method to cure the Evil & deter others from such
Attempts.

27․ Mr Tho Lambert has been appointed to
fill up the Vacant Lieutenants Commission,
occasioned by the Absence of Capt Clarke, as we
had no objection to his behaviour. And Mr John
Welch shall agreeable to your directions, succeed
to the next Lieutenants Commission, that shall
become Vacant in the Garrison, & be posted to pay,
while he remains afloat.

28․ In future we will send you Duplicates
Lists of what Invalid Soldiers we shall Order home,
with the Time of their Service & their respective
disorders &ca as you have been pleased to direct.

29․ We acquainted Mr Hiflong with your Orders
relating to him, but as he represented to Us that
he had a Family to maintain, & was in but very
indifferent Circumstances, & desiring the favour
of remaining here as an Inhabitant, We in
consideration thereof, & that his behaviour has been
more becoming, since he was first acquainted
with his request, but acquainted him that he was

26․ Every possible measure would be taken to prevent the desertion of enslaved people from the Island. Satisfaction was expressed at the determination that, when such persons came under notice elsewhere, they would be returned, as this was considered the most effective means of correcting the abuse and discouraging similar attempts.

27․ Mr Thomas Lambert had been appointed to fill the vacant lieutenant’s commission occasioned by Captain Clarke’s absence, there being no objection to his conduct. Mr John Welch would, in accordance with prior direction, succeed to the next lieutenant’s commission that became vacant in the garrison and would receive pay while he remained afloat.

28․ In future, duplicate lists would be transmitted of all invalid soldiers ordered home, specifying their length of service and the nature of their respective disorders, as directed.

29․ Mr Hislong had been informed of the orders concerning him. He represented that he had a family to maintain and was in difficult circumstances, requesting permission to remain on the Island as an inhabitant. In consideration of this, and as his behaviour had improved since first being apprised of the matter, he was informed that he was permitted to remain, subject to continued good conduct.

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no longer to receive half Pay, or any indulgences
from your Honors.

30․ Upon the resignation of Capt Clarke, we
admitted Capt Tho Fitzpatrick to take his seat
at the Council, agreeable to your former Orders. And
Mr Bursling & Capt Fitzpatrick shall be paid the
Salary you are pleased to direct. The two as
Creds allotted to Capt Clarke for instructing the gunners
ceased upon his leaving the Island. Mr Bursling
& Capt Fitzpatrick both return your Honrs their
humble thanks, for the appointments & allowances
you have been pleased to make them.

31․ We are much surprized to hear that Lieut
General Lallys Bill drawn in favor of your Honrs
for £100 was not paid. We conclude he must
have failed to transmit it, in case the French
India Company had not duly honoured it. No
advance of your Cash have been made this
Season, nor shall any be made for the future, to
the Gentlemen of the French Nation, neither
shall we permit any of them, except such as
are useful, to come on Shore.

32․ We proclaimed His Majestys declaration
of War against Spain, with the same and
Solemnities, used upon such Occasions.

33․ As there are no other but publick houses
here to accommodate the sick Seamen, We

29․ Mr Hislong was informed that he would no longer receive half pay, nor any indulgence from the Honourable Company.

30․ Upon the resignation of Captain Clarke, Captain Thomas Fitzpatrick was admitted to take his seat at Council in accordance with former orders. Mr Bursling and Captain Fitzpatrick were to receive the salaries directed. The two allowances formerly granted to Captain Clarke for instructing the gunners ceased upon his departure from the Island. Mr Bursling and Captain Fitzpatrick returned their humble thanks for the appointments and allowances granted to them.

31․ Considerable surprise was expressed that Lieutenant General Lally’s bill, drawn in favour of the Honourable Company for £100, had not been paid. It was concluded that he must have failed to transmit it, if the French East India Company had not duly honoured it. No advances from the Company’s cash had been made during the present season to any gentlemen of the French nation, nor would any be made in future. None would be permitted to come ashore except such as were considered useful.

32․ His Majesty’s declaration of war against Spain was proclaimed with the usual ceremonies and solemnities customary on such occasions.

33․ As there were no accommodations on the Island for sick seamen other than public houses, further measures were under consideration to address this deficiency.

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them to such Quarters of the Captains could have
provided better for them. It certainly was incumbent on
them to have done so, the inconveniences arising
have been owing entirely to the want of proper
accommodations for Sick Men, & not to the clandestine
views of any of your Servants, as we know of, nor
can we charge any of them in offending in this
respect. your Hospitals until we lately fitted a new
one, was very small, insufficient to hold your
Sick Soldiers, which added it impossible to admit
Sick Seamen into it, but as we have now a
larger Hospital, we will in future, if we have room
receive them into it, & charge the Captains with
the expences you have been pleased to direct.

34․ On the 21st of last Month arrived your Ship
Worcester, & the 27th Prince George, both from China. The
6 instant arrived the Earl of Holdernesse from
Bengal. Capt Browne informs Us, he left that Place
the 9th Feby last, your Ship Warren there, which
was to Sail in about a Month after for Madrass,
to fill up, & from thence to proceed for Europe. He
likewise acquaints Us, that the Fox was Sailed
to Fort St George, on a Journey ago, & that the
Dolphin was not arrived at Bengal when he
left it.

35․ We have been under a necessity of Adding
a few things at the foot of the Duplicate Indent
for the ensuing Season, as likewise some Carriage

33․ It had been incumbent upon the Captains to provide proper quarters for their sick men. The inconveniences that arose were attributed entirely to the lack of suitable accommodation for sick seamen, and not to any improper conduct by the Company’s servants, none of whom could be charged with misconduct in this respect. The hospital had until recently been very small and insufficient even for the sick soldiers of the garrison, which made it impossible to admit sick seamen. A larger hospital having now been fitted up, sick seamen would in future be received there when space permitted, and the Captains would be charged with the expense, in accordance with the Company’s directions.

34․ On 21 May your ship Worcester arrived from China, and on 27 May the Prince George likewise arrived from China. On 6 June the Earl of Holdernesse arrived from Bengal. Captain Browne reported that he had left Bengal on 9 February 1762. The ship Warren was then there and expected to sail about a month later for Madras, to complete her lading and then proceed to Europe. He further reported that the Fox had sailed for Fort St George some time before, and that the Dolphin had not arrived at Bengal when he departed.

35․ It became necessary to add several additional items to the foot of the duplicate indent for the ensuing season, together with certain carriage requirements.

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Capes for the Gunners uses, which you will
please to send Us next Year.

36․ We have provided the following Bills
of Exchange vizt One Set to Mr McBusting
for £387.10.10 payable to Mr Robt Bunce
on Order. One set to Mr Wm Bagnall for £420
payable to Capt Tho: Franklin on Order. One set
to Capt Hugh Beard for £300 payable to Mr
George Hutchinson on Order. One set to Mrs Judith
Kennedy for £147.7. payable to Mr Stephen
Winthrop on Order. One set to Mr Jas Bagnall
for £60 payable to Mr Andrew Cornish
on Order. One set to Capt R. Beady for £45
payable to Andrew Grose Esq on Order. One set
to Mr Henry Degg for £510.6.9 payable to
John Skelton Gentleman on Order. One set
to Mr Lumley for £500 payable to Mr Tho:
Lee on Order. And one set to Mr John Thomas
for £64 payable to himself on Order. all
dated the 11th instant, & drawn at 90 Days sight.

37․ We have given Capt Hagger a permission
to receive on board his Ships from Allow s & D s
70 00 and three discharged Men, they have all
signed an instrument, that they will not demand
any Wages for their Passage Home, which you
herewith. Mr Fletcher another discharged Soldier
has entred on board His Majestys Ship Assistance.

36․ The following Bills of Exchange were drawn on the Company. One set to Mr McBusting for £387 10s 10d payable to Mr Robert Bunce or order. One set to Mr William Bagnall for £420 payable to Captain Thomas Franklin or order. One set to Captain Hugh Beard for £300 payable to Mr George Hutchinson or order. One set to Mrs Judith Kennedy for £147 7s 0d payable to Mr Stephen Winthrop or order. One set to Mr James Bagnall for £60 payable to Mr Andrew Cornish or order. One set to Captain R Beady for £45 payable to Andrew Grose Esquire or order. One set to Mr Henry Degg for £510 6s 9d payable to Mr John Skelton Gentleman or order. One set to Mr Lumley for £500 payable to Mr Thomas Lee or order. And one set to Mr John Thomas for £64 payable to himself or order. All were dated 11 June 1762 and drawn at 90 days’ sight.

37․ Captain Hagger was granted permission to receive on board his ships several persons, including three discharged soldiers. Each signed an instrument declaring that no wages would be claimed for the voyage home, and this document was transmitted accordingly. Mr Fletcher, another discharged soldier, entered on board Assistance.

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We transmit you by this opportunity your
General Book of Accounts, Balanced to the
11 Octr 1760, to replace those that miscarried
by the Ship Ajax.

39․ We have received but 59 of the 56 Recruits
you were pleased to send Us, by the Royal Charlotte,
Wm Steward & Michael Beere dying on the Passage,
& John Bryan having run away before he left
England. At present we want about 30 Men to
complete our Establishments, & by April next,
near 70 of their Contracted times will expire, so
as we cannot rely much on their Relisting,
besides the Deaths &ca that may happen by
that time, We for these reasons shall want at
least 70 Recruits, which we hope you will be
pleased to send Us.

40․ Capt Norton of His Majestys Ship Assistance,
& his Surgeon, applied to Us for £188.7.6 which
sum we have advanced them, & taken Bills of
Exchange drawn on the Commissioners for
Victualling His Majestys Navy, payable to
your Honors, or Order, 30 Days after sight,
dated the 16 instant. the first Bill, & Letters of
Advice go herewith.

41․ Mr John Henderson Surgeon of the
Mercury, being very uneasy in his Station, &
desirous of returning to England, We have
agreed to discharge him from that Ship, &

38․ The General Book of Accounts, balanced to 11 October 1760, was transmitted by this opportunity in order to replace those which had miscarried in Ajax.

39․ Of the recruits sent by Royal Charlotte, only 59 were received. William Steward and Michael Beere died during the passage, and John Bryan absconded before departure from England. At present about 30 men were required to complete the establishment. By April next nearly 70 men would have completed their contracted terms of service, and little reliance could be placed on their re-engaging. Allowing also for deaths and other losses that might occur, at least 70 recruits would be needed, and it was requested that this number be sent.

40․ Captain Norton of Assistance, together with his surgeon, applied for £188 7s 6d. This sum was advanced, and bills of exchange were taken, drawn on the Commissioners for Victualling His Majesty’s Navy, payable to the Company or order 30 days after sight, dated 16 June 1762. The first bill and letter of advice were enclosed.

41․ Mr John Henderson, surgeon of Mercury, having expressed dissatisfaction with his situation and a desire to return to England, it was agreed to discharge him from that ship.

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acquainted him, his Wages would be paid by your Honrs
in England. We have given Capt R. Hall a permission
to receive them on board his Ship.

42․ Martin Richards who is a carpenter we
have entertained on board the Mercury. Capt Browne
being kind enough to discharge him from the Service
of Holdernesse, & promises to pay his Wages to his
Attorney in England.

43․ This waits on you Honr by His Majestys
Ship Assistance, which sails from hence with
five of your Ships under her Convoy.

We are
Honble Sirs
Your most Obedt & most Humble Servants
(signd) C Wm Hutchinson
John Chollace
R. Bursling
Tho Fitzpatrick

St Helena
7th June 1762

41․ Mr John Henderson, surgeon of Mercury, having expressed dissatisfaction with his situation and a desire to return to England, it was agreed to discharge him from that ship. He was informed that his wages would be paid by the Honourable Company in England. Captain R. Hall was granted permission to receive him on board his ship for that purpose.

42․ Martin Richards, a carpenter, was taken into service on board Mercury, Captain Browne having released him from Earl of Holdernesse and undertaken to pay his wages to his attorney in England.

43․ This letter was forwarded by His Majesty’s Ship Assistance, which sailed from St Helena under convoy of five of the Company’s ships, dated 7 June 1762.

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List of the Honble Companys Packets from
St Helena & the Majestys Ship Assistance dated the 7th
June 1762 vizt

1․ Govr: Wm Hutchinsons Letter dated 7th June 1762
2․ Duplicate Do &c Do dated 7th May Do
3․ Account from 18th May to the 16th June Do
4․ Duplicate Do from 6th to 17th May Do
5․ Short Receipt for the Packet of Ship Leamington
6․ Second Receipt for Do of Ship Neptune
7․ List of Officers Servants taken 7th June 1762
8․ Do of 49 Discharged Soldiers
9․ Duplicates each of the Packets of Ship Leamington
10․ Do List of Garrison Stores sent 7th March 1762
11․ Do List of Stores sent in the Island from St Helena
31st March 1762
12․ Do List of Artillery Stores from 30th Jany 1761 to 31st March
13․ Do Indent of Stores wanted for the Service of the Year 1763
14․ Do Indent of Medicines wanted for
15․ Effective State of the Garrison
16․ Govr Letters to the Secret Committees
17․ Cash Acco from 18 to 31st May 1762
18․ Do from the 1st to 17th June Do
19․ Duplicate Cash Acco from 6 to 17th May Do
20․ Ship Dorno Henry Acco
21․ Do Stomo
22․ Do Stores &ca

List of the Honourable Company’s Packets from St Helena by His Majesty’s Ship Assistance, dated 7 June 1762, vizt:

1․ Governor William Hutchinson’s letter dated 7 June 1762
2․ Duplicate of the same, dated 7 May 1762
3․ Account from 18 May to 16 June 1762
4․ Duplicate account from 6 to 17 May 1762
5․ Short receipt for the packet of Ship Leamington
6․ Second receipt for the packet of Ship Neptune
7․ List of officers and servants taken 7 June 1762
8․ List of 49 discharged soldiers
9․ Duplicates of the packets of Ship Leamington
10․ Duplicate list of garrison stores sent 7 March 1762
11․ Duplicate list of stores received in the Island from St Helena 31 March 1762
12․ Duplicate list of artillery stores from 30 January 1761 to 31 March 1762
13․ Duplicate indent of stores wanted for the service of the year 1763
14․ Duplicate indent of medicines wanted for the same
15․ Effective state of the garrison
16․ Governor’s letters to the Secret Committee
17․ Cash account from 18 to 31 May 1762
18․ Cash account from 1 to 17 June 1762
19․ Duplicate cash account from 6 to 17 May 1762
20․ Ship Dorno Henry account
21․ Ship Stomo account
22․ Stores account and related documents

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24․ Ship Earl of Holdernesse Acco
25․ Duplicate Ship Leamington Do
26․ Do Norfolk Do
27․ Do Princess Augusta Do
28․ Capt Hutchinsons Receipts for £5
29․ Act of their Boats arrival at Bencoolen
30․ General Book of Accounts
31․ Courts Martial from 14th Decr 1761 to 7th June 1762
32․ Instruments inlisting from 3 Discharged Men
33․ Capt Nortons first Bill of Exchange for £188.7.6
34․ Abstracts of the Cargo of Ship Worcester & Prince George
& Earl of Holdernesse

To the Honble &ca
Honble Sirs

Our last Advices to you went by the
Convoy, which we hope your Honrs will receive before
this comes to hand.

On the 29th of last Month arrived
a Dane Ship from Bengal, called the Crown Prince
of Denmark, Capt George Munckhouse, Burthen 700 Tons
carries 26 Guns & 120 Men, laden with Bengal goods
bound to Copenhagen. The Capt acquaints Us he
left Bengal the 21st of March, & your Ships Norfolk
& Dolphin there, the latter it was reported was to
sail for Europe about the 10 of April. He likewise

24․ Ship Earl of Holdernesse account
25․ Duplicate Ship Leamington account
26․ Duplicate Ship Norfolk account
27․ Duplicate Ship Princess Augusta account
28․ Captain Hutchinson’s receipts for £5
29․ Act of their boats’ arrival at Bencoolen
30․ General Book of Accounts
31․ Courts Martial from 14 December 1761 to 7 June 1762
32․ Instruments of enlistment from 3 discharged men
33․ Captain Norton’s first Bill of Exchange for £188 7s 6d
34․ Abstracts of the cargoes of Ships Worcester, Prince George and Earl of Holdernesse

To the Honourable Court

Honourable Sirs

1․ The last advices had been transmitted by the convoy, which it was hoped would be received before the present letter.

2․ On 29 of the preceding month there arrived a Danish ship from Bengal named the Crown Prince of Denmark, Captain George Munckhouse, of burthen 700 tons, carrying 26 guns and 120 men, laden with Bengal goods and bound for Copenhagen. The captain reported that he had left Bengal on 21 March and that your Ships Norfolk and Dolphin were then at that settlement. It was further reported that the latter vessel was expected to sail for Europe about 10 April. He likewise stated—

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informs Us the Warren left Bengal for Madrass the
25th of Feby last & that Admiral Cornish with the
Squadron under his Command arrived at Fort St George
the 17th of the same Month in a sickly condition. Capt
Munckhouse further tells Us, that a Dutch Ship came
to Bengal the latter end of Feby that the Captain
told him, he sailed from Batavia the 9th Decr
& that he left a French Ship of 54 Guns & a Frigate
of 36 there, but that they were both unrigged & could
not put to Sea for want of Men

This Day your Ship Royal Charlotte
proceeds on her Voyage to China

We are
Honble Sirs
Your most Obedt & most humble
Servants
(signd) C Wm Hutchinson
John Skottowe
M Bursling
Tho Fitzpatrick

St Helena
4 July 1762

3․ It was further reported that the Warren had left Bengal for Madras on 25 February last, and that Admiral Cornish with the squadron under his command had arrived at Fort St George on 17 of the same month in a sickly condition. It was likewise related that a Dutch ship had come to Bengal towards the end of February, the master of which declared he had sailed from Batavia on 9 December and had left there a French ship of 54 guns and a frigate of 36 guns, both unrigged and unable to put to sea for want of men.

4․ On that day your Ship Royal Charlotte proceeded on her voyage to China.

Honourable Sirs

Your most obedient and most humble Servants

Signed
C. Wm Hutchinson
John Skottowe
M. Bursling
Tho. Fitzpatrick

St Helena
4 July 1762

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To the Honble &ca
Honble Sirs

We Addressed you last by a Dane
Ship, called the Crown Prince of Denmark, which
sailed from hence the 7th of July.

On the 23 of the same Month arrived
the Warren from Madrass, which Place she left the
21st of April. Capt Flores acquaints Us, that Admiral
Cornish with five of His Squadron sailed for
Trinquemalay a few Days before she left
St George.

On the 31 of last Month arrived a
Dutch Ship from Batavia, called the Schrouggh,
Capt Cornelis Basteyn, Burthen about 700 Tons,
carrys 20 Guns & 107 Men, laden with Pepper,
Sugar & Tea bound to Amsterdam. The Capt
informs Us, he sailed from Batavia the 9th of May,
& left there an English Man of War unrigged, &
two French Frigates of about eighteen Guns each.

On the 7 instant arrived your Ship
York from Bombay, which Place she left the 12th
of May. Capt Savella tells Us, the Brockenaw
sailed for Sudah, & the Earl of Ugen for Mocha
about the middle of March last, and the Royal
Captain for Gombroon the beginning of April.

Letter addressed to the Honourable Court, written from St Helena and dated 4 July 1762.

1․ It had last been addressed by a Danish ship, the Crown Prince of Denmark, which sailed from St Helena on 7 July.

2․ On 23 of the same month the Warren arrived from Madras, having left that place on 21 April. Captain Flores reported that Admiral Cornish, with five ships of his squadron, had sailed for Trincomalee a few days before the vessel departed from Fort St George.

3․ On 31 of the preceding month a Dutch ship from Batavia arrived, named the Schrouggh, commanded by Captain Cornelis Basteyn, of about 700 tons burden, carrying 20 guns and 107 men, laden with pepper, sugar and tea and bound for Amsterdam. It was reported that she sailed from Batavia on 9 May and had left there an English man of war unrigged and two French frigates of about 18 guns each.

4․ On 7 of the instant the Company’s ship York arrived from Bombay, having left that place on 12 May. Captain Savella stated that the Brockenaw had sailed for Surat and the Earl of Ugen for Mocha about the middle of March, and that the Royal Captain had sailed for Gombroon at the beginning of April.

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the latter end of May, and the Calcutta to be
dispatched for Europe about three Weeks after him.
He likewise informs Us, that three sail of Dutch
Ships, & two Frigates, were lost in a violent Gale
of Wind the latter end of March last off the Island
of Ceylon & a large Snow near Anjenga.

Capt Cornelis Basteyn applied to Us to pay
£700 into your Cash, which Sum we have
received, & given him Bills of Exchange, drawn
on your Honrs for that Sum, payable to himself
or Order, 90 Days after sight dated the 5th instant.

We are
Honble Sirs
Your most Obedt & most
humble Servants
(signd)
C Wm Hutchinson
John Skottowe
M Bursling
Tho Fitzpatrick

St Helena
6th August 1762

Letter addressed to the Honourable Court, written from St Helena and dated 6 August 1762.

It was reported that the Calcutta had been expected to sail for Europe about three weeks after the vessel previously mentioned, towards the latter end of May.

Intelligence was likewise received that three Dutch ships and two frigates had been lost in a violent gale of wind at the latter end of March off the island of Ceylon, together with a large snow near Anjengo.

Captain Cornelis Basteyn applied to pay £700 sterling into the Company’s cash. That sum was received and bills of exchange were granted, drawn on the Honourable Court for £700 sterling, payable to himself or order, 90 days after sight, dated 5 August 1762.

Signed at St Helena, 6 August 1762,
C. Wm Hutchinson
John Skottowe
M. Bursling
Tho. Fitzpatrick

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To the Honble &ca
Honble Sirs

1․ Our last Advices waited on your Honrs by
a Dutch Ship, called the Schornzige, which
sailed from hence the 6 instant.

2․ Capt Berkeley of Ship Sussex borrowed
half a q of Riga Timber, for a stud, & through
mistake, carried it away without paying for it
which wee acquaint your Honrs of, that the
Owners of that Ship may be charged with it, the
price being St 1.9.

3․ Mr Tho Hall, an honest Gunner, representing
to Us that the Artillery on all your Settlements
were commanded by Capt Lieutenants, & as
you have been pleased to appoint Captains to
the command of the four Companies of Infantry,
he hopes to be put upon the same Establishment.
He has been very Assiduous & careful in his
Station, & as his company consists of as many
Men, as the others do, wee think in case of
Action, that it would be Absolutely necessary
to have another Officer in the company of
Artillery, therefore hope you will be pleased to
appoint Mr Hall a Capt: & have a Lieut:
Subservient and Do it.

Letter addressed to the Honourable Court, written from St Helena and dated 6 August 1762.

1․ It was reported that the last advices had been forwarded to the Honourable Court by a Dutch ship named the Schornzige, which sailed from St Helena on 6 August 1762.

2․ Captain Berkeley of the ship Sussex had borrowed ½ quintal of Riga timber for use as a stud. Owing to an oversight, it was carried away without payment. Notice was therefore given so that the owners of that vessel might be charged with the cost, being £1 9 s 0 d sterling.

3․ Mr Thomas Hall, gunner, represented that at the Company’s other settlements the artillery was commanded by captain lieutenants, and that as captains had been appointed to command the four companies of infantry, he hoped to be placed upon the same establishment. He was described as having been diligent and careful in the execution of his duty. As his company consisted of as many men as the others, it was considered that in the event of action an additional officer in the artillery company would be absolutely necessary. It was therefore requested that Mr Hall might be appointed captain, with a lieutenant subordinate to him.

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4․ We thought it for your Honrs Interest to give
a small premium to the Soldiers whose times will
expire the next year, to be deducted out of the £10
given them for Bounty Money, by which means
we have already engaged upwards of thirty of them,
this method we think would prevent many of them
from so very frequently deserting them at that season,
from leaving the Island when their times are expiring.
The Recruits recd by the Royal Charlotte are but
indifferent, some of them being very Add to their
Boys, that by the time they will be fit for Service
will be returning to England.

5․ Henry Johnson who came a Soldier here in
the Earl of Holdernesse, representing to Us, that he
had some Affairs of consequence to transact in
England, which required his being there, Requested
his Discharge, & having procured another Man’s
service in your Honrs place (James) we have granted it,
& put him on board the Ship York, towards
compleating her Company. We have likewise
put on board the Warren John Dean & Archibald
Logue two discharged Men, towards filling up
her complement.

6․ Capt Wm Campbell representing to Us, that
he was at an extraordinary Expence for keeping
a Table for himself & Officers, & that it was
customary to be allowed a stipulated Sum upon
that Account. We Request to know, whether your

4․ It had been judged for the Company’s interest to allow a small premium to those soldiers whose terms would expire the following year, the sum to be deducted from the £10 bounty ordinarily granted. By this means upwards of thirty men had already been engaged to continue in the service. It was considered that such a measure would prevent many from deserting at the time their engagements expired, or from leaving the Island upon the completion of their terms. The recruits received by the Royal Charlotte were found to be of an indifferent quality, several of them being so very young that, by the time they became fit for service, they would be due to return to England.

5․ Henry Johnson, who had come to the Island as a soldier in the Earl of Holdernesse, represented that he had important affairs in England which required his presence there, and therefore requested his discharge. Having provided another man, named James, to serve in his stead, the discharge was granted, and he was placed on board the York towards completing her complement. John Dean and Archibald Logue, two discharged men, were likewise placed on board the Warren to assist in filling up her company.

6․ Captain William Campbell represented that he had been at extraordinary expense in maintaining a table for himself and his officers, and that it had been customary to allow a fixed sum for that purpose. Directions were therefore desired whether any such allowance ought to be granted in his case.

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Honors will be pleased to give him so much a Year for
his Table, or pay the extraordinary Expence he is
at for it.

7․ Mr Jas Merryweather Chief Gunr & Mr John
Barthenson Second Mate of The Mercury, now
representing to Us, that the two Months Pay in
Specie they received here, was not sufficient for their
support. We agreed to advance each of them
two Months Wages, as you will please to observe
in our Consultation of the 21 of last Month. We
desire you will give Us directions on this head, that
we may know what longer to advance the
People of this kind hereafter, in case of their making
application to Us for Money.

8․ You will likewise be pleased to Observe in
the Consultation beforementioned, that we have
entertained Mr Alexr Anderson, to be Surgeon of
the Mercury Snow, at the usual Salary, in the
room of Mr John Henderson who proceeded to
England on the Ship Worcester.

9․ Being apprehensive we shall get but
little Money the next Season, for Bills upon your
Honrs, we shall want at least three Chests of
Treasury for your use, which we hope you will
be pleased to send Us in Ballast.

10․ As His Majestys Ships that arrive
here, do not return the Salute of the Fort, we
desire to be informed whether we are to insist
upon it in future.

6․ Captain William Campbell had indicated that maintaining a table for himself and his officers placed him under unusual financial strain, and that it had formerly been customary for commanding officers to receive a fixed yearly allowance for that purpose. Clarification was therefore sought as to whether he should be granted an annual sum for this charge, or whether the additional expense he had incurred ought to be repaid in some other manner.

7․ Mr James Merryweather, Chief Gunner, and Mr John Barthenson, Second Mate of the Mercury, stated that the two months’ pay issued to them in ready money on the Island had proved inadequate for their maintenance. An additional advance equal to two months’ wages had accordingly been made to each, as entered in the Consultation of the 21 of the preceding month. Further direction was requested as to whether similar advances should in future be permitted when officers or seamen of this description applied for assistance.

8․ It was also resolved, as noted in the same Consultation, to appoint Mr Alexander Anderson as Surgeon to the Mercury snow at the established salary, in place of Mr John Henderson, who had returned to England aboard the Worcester.

9․ As it was anticipated that little ready money would be obtained in the coming season from bills drawn upon the Company, a request was made for at least three chests of specie to be forwarded for the Island’s service, to be sent out as ballast.

10․ Since ships belonging to His Majesty had not been returning the customary salute fired from the fort on their arrival, guidance was sought as to whether the return salute should be formally required in future.

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to Salute your Honrs Ships when lying in the Road
do not. We therefore think it inconvenient for us
to do it.

11․ The Govr intending a Person to assist him as
a Clerk, pitched upon Mr R. Jones for that purpose,
to whom we have allowed £10 a Year. And as
the multiplicity of Business in the Secretary’s
Office makes it absolutely necessary to have
another Assistant there, we have entertained Mr
Britannicus Wright, Son of Mr Robert Wright, who
died here lately much involved, & left his Family in
a very distressed situation, to be Assistant at the usual
Salary, as you will be pleased to Observe in our
Consultation of the 5 of last Month, which
appointments, we hope will meet with your
approbation.

12․ We ordered the Effects of Geo Warner, who
died Intestate, to be Sold, & the Balance amounting
to £8.11.3 after his Debts were paid, to be
deposited in your Cash, & wrote off to Accompts
Current London, as mentioned in our Consultation of
the 21 of July last.

13․ The Passengers upon the Ships Warren are
Capt Tho Duckett, W Smith, Mr Wm Cruden Willey, &
Messrs Outlock, Leavers, Taylor, Hockney, and
Robinson. And on board the York, Messrs James,
Doney, Bell, Webb, Wells. There are likewise

11․ As the Governor required clerical assistance in the execution of his duties, Mr R. Jones was selected for that purpose and granted a salary of £10 per year. Owing to the increasing volume of business within the Secretary’s office, it was also considered essential to appoint an additional assistant there. Mr Britannicus Wright, son of Mr Robert Wright who had recently died on the Island in embarrassed circumstances and left his family in distress, was accordingly engaged at the customary salary, as recorded in the Consultation of the 5 of the preceding month. It was trusted that both appointments would receive approval.

12․ The personal estate of George Warner, who died intestate, was ordered to be sold. After settlement of his debts, the remaining balance of £8.11.3 was paid into the Company’s cash and entered to Account Current London, in accordance with the Consultation of the 21 of July.

13․ The passengers aboard the Warren were Captain Thomas Duckett, W. Smith, Mr William Cruden Willey, together with Messrs Outlock, Leavers, Taylor, Hockney and Robinson. Those on board the York were Messrs James, Doney, Bell, Webb and Wells.

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14․ We have granted the following Bills of
Exchange vizt One set to C. Clayton drawn on Loo
for £629.6.3 payable to Maurice Johnson or
Order. Two Sets to John Skottowe Esq One for
£200 payable to Robert Ward Esq or Order the
one set for £26 payable to himself or Order.
One set to Messrs Madn Cunliffe Wm Bazett for
£807.15.9 payable to Capt John Clarkson or
Order. One set to Mr Wm Wrangham for
£111.3.7 payable to Capt John Delarond or
Order. One set to Mr Tho Greenhough for
£101.10 payable to Mr Harry Dawison or
Order. And one set to Mr Wm Lee for £200
payable to Mr Tho Lee or Order, all drawn at
90 Days sight, & dated the 12 instant.

15․ Capt Athinson Glovers applied to Us
for £150 for the use of the Ship Warren,
which we have advanced him, & taken Bills
of Exchange drawn upon R & B Graft Esq for
that Sum, payable to your Honrs or Order, 90
Days after sight, dated the 12 instant. The
first Bill & Letter of Advice goe herewith.