NORTHUM HELAND. --- DEE OF and that there is a suspicion of some of his troop, as if they were concerned in it. We have enquired very strictly after it and cannot hear or suspect any such thing. It seems strange that there should be such a robbery and we that live here should know nothing of it. They discredit the story. [Seal with the town arms. 1 p.] 1686, March 30. Wells.-The deputy lieutenants of co. Somerset to the Duke of Somerset ; -in praise of Capt. Thomas Littleton, the Duke's muster-master, who had some information that he was so unfortunate as to lie under his Grace's displeasure. [1 p.] 1686, April 7. Grantham.-The Mayor, Robert Cole, and Aldermen of Grantham to Charles Duke of Somerset; asking that Capt. Levison's troop of dragoons then quartered in the town and who had so civilly behaved themselves since they came hither might be still continued. [Town seal. 1 p.] 1686, May 29. Windsor.-Robert Earl of Sunderland to the same. The King being informed that divers persons in Somersetshire who were concerned, in the late rebellion there or are otherwise disaffected to the Government, do behave themselves very insolently, to the terror of his Majesty's loyal subjects, by threatening to sue them for pretended trespasses during the rebellion, and otherwise molesting them, the King commands me to acquaint you that he would have you write to some of the deputy lieutenants and justices of peace of that county to inform themselves, as particularly as they can concerning this matter, and to transmit an account thereof, together with the names of the offenders, &c., &c. [1 p.] 1686, Nov. 18. George, Lord Jeffreys, to the same. By the King's command I send the enclosed, being a list of the justices of peace in Somersetshire, his Majesty desiring to be satisfied of the persons therein contained on Friday next at Council. [1 p.] Encloses, List of the justices of peace in Somersetshire. [2 pp.] [1686, Nov. 18].-Similar list of the justices of peace in the East Riding of co. York. [1 p.] 1686 and 1687.-Three papers about persons in the East Riding of York, not qualified to have guns, keeping muskets; 45 guns were found in the house of Thomas Young, of Howden-dyke. 1688, Nov. 8.-Lady Mary Thynne to Viscountess Weymouth. The news of this day's feat I am sure has reached you, not only from my son but from those quarters that are as near you, of the Prince's landing; and since it hath pleased God you should be always near those alarms, I am sure my son's first thoughts are to secure you from the frights as well as the danger. I find by his letter to me that Konisford (?) is assigned as a place of refuge, which, from its largeness, may be better to receive that family you must of necessity bring with you; yet it has not been aired enough to receive I am therefore in your son and daughter's name as well as my own, desired that you would make this place your first stage, which will hold both you and the children, with such friends as you shall bring, and the livery servants can have their quarters at Konisford. [1 p.] you; 1688.-An abstract of the expenses of the late King James II., by actual payments in money for the three years, from Lady-day, 1685 to Lady-day 1688, particularizing the amounts expended by the several departments of the Government. Totals, Lady-day 1686, 1,523,0691. 28. 04d; Lady-day 1687, 1,792,8151. 8s. 64d.; Lady-day 1688, 1,782,1741. 38. 74d. = 2 pp.] 1688. Two political ballads, the first entitled "To "the Prince of Orange. A Packet of Advice;" the second, "The Packet-boat returned:" they each consist of nine verses of three lines. The first commencing— "The year of wonder(s) now is come A jubile proclaim at Rome 66 The church has pregnant made the womb." * * Orange, lay by your hope of crowns, 1688-9, March 21. Whitehall.-Warrant under the sign manual to the Duke and Duchess of Somerset, to attend Coronation on the 11th of April next. [Signed and sealed. 1 p.] 1689, April 1.-Henry Duke of Norfolk and Earl Marshal to Charles Duke of Somerset. His Majesty having appointed you to bear the queen's crown at the Coronation, this is to desire you to meet in the House of Lords at their Majesties' palace at Westminster, on the 11th April, at eight o'clock a.m., in your velvet robes and collar George, with your coronet. [p.] 1689, April 2.-Notice to the same to appear at a chapter of the Garter, to be held on the 3rd April at Whitehall, in the Council Chamber, at 3 p.m., in your mantle only. [1 p.] 1689, Sept. 7. London.-Thomas Medhurst, collector, to the same. By order of the Lords appointed to execute an Act entitled An Act for a general aid to their Majesties of 12d. in the £ for one year, for the necessary defence of their Realms," asks that he will signify the value of his personal estate, which is to be assessed according to the Act, &c., &c. [1 p.] 66 1690-1, March 5.-[Thomas Viscount Weymouth] to Lady Weymouth, at Long Leat. My brother H. has been for some time indisposed with the gout and a violent cold, and yesterday I feared he would have died, but is now somewhat better, and in that prospect I have taken the Salisbury coach for Friday next. The King and Queen went yesterday to Chensford [Chelmsford ?]. Lord Rochester is made of the cabinet council; Sir H. Capell, Visct. Tewxbury, Sir Will. Farmer, a baron; Monsr. Rovigny, Visct. Gallaway. Lord Hyde was married on Thursday. I have sent down four hampers of claret, which let the butler be careful of. [1 p.] 1691, July 21.-Articles granted to the town and garrison of Gallway, in Ireland, by General Ginckel, commander-in-chief of their Majesties' forces. These articles were signed and sealed by the commander-inchief Ginckel, and by the constable and governor of the said town, Dillon. Clanrickard. [Copy. 3 pp.] [1691, July].—Account of their Majestics' revenue in Ireland from Duke Schomberg's landing, on 13th Aug. 1689 to Midsummer 1690, and from thence to Midsummer 1691. Totals, 26,1577. 1s. 23d., and 142,0147. 11s. 3 d. 2 pp.] 1691, Oct. 3.-Articles agreed upon between Lieutenant-General Ginckel, commander-in-chief of the English army, and Lieutenants General D'Usson and D'Tesse, commanders-in-chief of the Irish army, upon the capitulation of Limerick. [Copy. 94 pp.] 1691, Nov. 13. Admiralty Office.-A list given in by the Admiralty Office to the House of Commons of all the ships lost and damaged from 1688 to 1691, specifying the names of the ships, their tonnage, captains, times when, places where, and manner how lost and taken. Total lost, 36. Since this account [was] given into the House, it is said, there is the "Happy Entrance," the "Bonaventure," and the "Nonsuch" taken by the French. [Broadsheet.] 1691, Nov. 26. Marlborough.-Rolfe Baylye to Charles Duke of Somerset. We, the Mayor and Magistrates of Marlborough, at the request of the drapers, silkmen, and other tradesmen of this corporation, being sensible of the manifold loss and prejudice, not only they but all other tradesmen throughout this kingdom, do sustain by the great increase of Scots and other pedlars and petty chapmen, persons of no settled habitations, who are of no trade, but ramble about the country with their packs of all sorts of linen, silks, hoods, scarfs, and all other sorts of small wares, and being informed that there is an Act in passing the House of Commons for their redress, do earnestly entreat your Grace to be instrumental to get the same Act to pass in the Lords' House, when it comes before them. [p.] 1692. A satirical poem of 130 lines, entitled "AstropWells, 1692." It commences thus: "View all the mineral springs in Albion's isle, Or where by sulph'rous fires they influenced boil, Or where the latent steel affects the water, Than this well, Hamlet, none's more ripe for satire." [6 pp.] [1692].-A short poem in four stanzas of six lines each, entitled, "The Lover in Fashion." It is in the same handwriting as the preceding, and commences thus: "How happy am I [11 p.] The fair sex can defy, Who can e'ry day say my heart is my own; I never saw yet That beauty or wit, But that I could love, or ou'd let her alone.' DUKE OF NORTHUM BERLAND. "Dear sir, a lady cry'd, that's much renowned Thro' all the realms of foppery around, [1692 P].-An account, prepared by William Jephson, Esq., while living, and after his death delivered to us by Robert Squib, of pensions, salaries, and bounties paid out of secret service money to members of Parliament. Amongst the entries are Henry Powle, Esq., Speaker of the House of Commons, on his allowance, 1,5751. Sir John Trevor, for equipage and allowance as Speaker, 2,4051. The late Duke of Schomberg, free gift, 3,000l. The Duke of Ormond, free gift and one pension of 2,500l., 3,6301. 17s. Marquis of Carmarthen, on a pension of 3,500l. per annum, 3,8731. 19s. Earl of Oxford, free gift, 4,000l. More paid by Henry Guy, out of secret service, to Henry Powle, Speaker, 1401. Totals, 26,8141. 16s., and 1,4401. [Written upon the fly leaf of a letter to Charles Duke of Somerset. 1 p.] Sept. 30. 1693, Oct. 10. Paris.-News letter. The subjects treated of are-The arrival of the Maréchal de Tourville with his fleet in the Road of Bertaume. The Comte de Chateaurenant separated from the fleet with a squadron of 15 ships off Cape Finisterre, for to go to lay up at Rochefort. The Maréchal de Tourville was occupied in regulating the distribution of the vessels which were to lay up at Port Louis and Dunkirk, and such as keep the sea have started for Bayonne and the coasts of Ireland. News from Grenoble of the 24th, that the army of M. de Catinat had not yet passed the Poe. It is confirmed from Flanders and the Rhine, that the armies were retired, and the officers gone to take order for recruiting their regiments. Since the 4th, when the battle of Piedmont took place, till the 17th, they write from Grenoble, that nothing has occurred but marching and counter-marching, with the burning of some villages, of which the Duke of Savoy has sent to demand the reason.-Particulars of the war in Italy.-The movements of the populace of this city [Paris] having given reason to apprehend the destruction of the bakehouses, which the King has caused to be made for the supply of bread to the most necessitous, it has been necessary to station detachments of the guard to protect them.--Disturbances in Paris.-Prohibition published against the employment of grain in the making of beer and spirit. [French. 7 pp.] 66 1693, Oct. 16-26. Paris.-News letter. The subjects treated of are the progress of the war in Italy. The Spaniards have made divers movements on the side of Roses," but have not as yet attempted to harass our army, small as it is. The army of Flanders separates in like manner, and it is said that a great part of the troops will winter in Picardy and other provinces of the frontier. The Duc de Chartres arrived yesterday from the army, and is in constant attendance on the Maréchal de Luxembourg, the Duc de Bourbon, and the Prince de Coucy, as well as the Duc de Vendosme. The Maréchal de Lorges has fixed his winter quarters on the Rhine, and is expected to leave his army on the 24th for Versailles. The Count d'Egmont, a grandee of Spain, has been naturalised a French citizen, because the greater part of his goods are situated in the conquered countries. They demand the contributions of two years in Piedmont, either in money or corn. Intelligence of the arrival of the Maréchal de Tourville at Brest with the fleet. In the consistory of the Bishops, the Pope delivered the eulogy of the King in very flattering terms. Bread riots in Paris. News from the Hague of the 30th Oct. Assistance proffered to the Duke of Savoy. M. D'Odyck to replace M. de Citters as ambassador from the States at the English court. Intelligence from Brussels of the 30th, that the Duc de Villeroy, who commands the French troops, contemplates some enterprise. [French. 64 pp.] Oct. 26. 1693, Nov. 6. treated of are-The movements of the French army. The officers who were arrived in Paris to pass the winter have been obliged to return to the regiments. The courier arrived from the army of the Maréchal de Catinat, brings intelligence that it advances continually into the country, and that the contributions in money, corn, and forage are levied without any obstacle, whilst the army of the Duke of Savoy is constantly retreating. -Progress of the war in Italy.-News from Strasbourg, Paris.-News letter. The subjects NORI BERI that a detachment of 300 men of the King's army DUE having advanced into the Black Forest were confronted by a superior force and compelled to retire. The commandants of the armies of Piedmont and of the Rhine having informed the [French] King that it was difficult to overthrow in the encounters the cuirassiers of the Emperor, being clad in habillements impenetrable to steel and fire, his Majesty has made five new regiments of carabineers to oppose them. News from St. Malo that an exchange had been made of 70 English sailors for the like number of French. Arrival of merchant vessels, laden with grain, at the Isles of Rhé and Olleron, which were sent on by way of the Rhone and Loire to Paris. The French King has named to the places and governments of the officers who were killed in the battles of Neerwinden and Marsaille, being chiefly officers of the gendarmerie, others of the same corps. Intelligence has been received that the Maréchal de Catinat has made himself master of certain advantageous posts which he has caused to be burned, that he might not have to surrender them. Of the 93 ships of war which composed the last summer the King's fleet, 40 are disarming at Brest, 26 at Toulon, 20 at Rochefort, and four at the port Louis, and the other three are cruizing in the Mediterranean; they are also disarming the galleys at Marseilles. P.S.-From the Hague of the 10 November 1693, news has arrived that they have sent to the Duke of Savoy 50,000 crowns for to levy 2,600 men to replace the regiment of the Marquis of Montauban; besides which they will remit 12,000 crowns per month for the support of 6,000 men, that they hope his Majesty will speedily be in a position to oppose his enemies. They report from Charleroy that they have changed the design they had formed to draw a line, it being judged useless because of the posts which they have fortified on this [the French] side to hinder the parties of the allies from making incursions. [French. 8 pp.] 1693, Oct. 27. Whitehall.-News letter. The subjects treated of are-The proceedings in Council against the admirals of the fleet for the report concerning the Lord Falkland. On Wednesday last the Council sat till very late, and came to the resolution and declaration which you will read in the Gazette; for understanding the latter part of it, it may not be improper to mention that the paper read by Lord Falkland at the Board, was what the Admirals had sent to the Commissioners of the Admiralty, as the result of a council of war, held on the 22d May last, after they had received their orders to sail from St. Helen's, together with the Streight's fleet, which paper contained no more than the several rendezvous agreed on, in case of separation, and the admiral's thinking the whole of it was not read, might be led into an error, for whether it were read or not, at that time it could not be thought to be stifled, since it had lain long before the Council, and had been often read there, though perhaps they did not know it; besides, it does not appear to be a paper very material for their justification, since what was expected from them was an account of what resolutions they had taken in relation to the Smyrna fleet, which were not then sent, and, as I hear it, was the matter they were charged with. Yesterday, the Parliament was prorogued, by commission, to the 7th November. Mr. Levingston was taken last Tuesday night, and committed, for the death of Mr. Howard, By a ship newly arrived from Portugal, it is reported that M. Gabaret was with a squadron about Cape St. Vincent, and Chateau Renaud with another near Cadiz. [14 p.] 1693, Nov. 2. London.-News letter. Letters from Falmouth of the 26th Oct. say that the Prince of Orange and Guaker Ketch sailed about [the] Land's [End] the day before with 150 transport ships, bound for Bristol and Wales. Two French privateers to be sold at Plymouth on the 10th November. From on board the Neptune, at Spithead, 27 October, the boatswain of the Royal Oak, and his mate, are condemned to be hanged for embezzleing the King's stores. Colonel Hamilton's regiment of 13 companies, being of 900 men, is quartered at Norwich. His Majesty landed on Sunday at Harwich, and slept at Colchester; the Queen having joined him, they came together to Kensington, about 11 last night, the whole city being illuminated as they passed through. The Council was summoned to meet yesterday, in the evening, and the admirals of the fleet were ordered to attend; but his Majesty being then expected, the meeting was put off. Yesterday the new Lord Mayor entered upon his office, with the usual solemnities and pageantry. Some highwaymen were apprehended this afternoon in Fleet Street, but I hear they killed two men before they were taken. Off Weymouth a French privateer took IP OF THUM LAND. a Dutch ship, and is in quest of four more. "The Hope of London," an interloper from Guinea, arrived at Galloway on the 10th, richly laden with elephants' teeth, red wood, gold dust, &c.; she made her voyage in eight weeks. On Tuesday last the case depending between the bankers of London and the King was argued before all the judges in the Exchequer Chamber; the bankers pleaded by virtue of a patent from Charles II., that the interest onght to be paid out of the hereditary excise, but after a long debate the decision of this affair was put off till next term. This afternoon the Bishop of London attended by the clergy of his diocess, as also the Lord Mayor and Court of Aldermen, congratulated his Majesty's safe arrival. Yesterday Mr. Neal's lottery was opened. Our merchants are in great pain for the Bilboa fleet, which consists of 30 sail, under convoy of 12 men of war, being richly laden, and at sea above six weeks, but not yet heard of. We hear that a Scotch minister at the Lord Mayor's feast refusing to drink King William and Queen Mary's healths, had the oaths tendered him, which he refused, as also to pay his fine, for which he was committed. A Cabinet Council has been held to consider of a convoy for the Streight's fleet, of which Sir Francis Wheeler will have the command. This day, by his Majesty in Council, the regulations and restrictions for the East India Company were settled. A French spy sent from Ostend. His Majesty, at the Lord Mayor's congratulation upon his return, declared that he would never be wanting, though with the peril of his life, to bring the people to the desired peace, and afterwards gave him and the Aldermen his hand to kiss. This day the King dined in private with the Duke Hamilton, General Talmash, the Lords Colchester and Newport. [4 pp.] 1693, Nov. 8. Paris.-News letter. The subjects treated of are-Extraordinary preparations making for some enterprises this winter on the Meuse and Moselle. Intelligence from Mentz of preparations making to put the Comte de Tallard in a position to make a diversion when the Maréchal de Bouflers shall be occupied with the bombardment of Liege and Mæstricht.-Designs of France in the Low Countries. M. de Vauban is to take the necessary measures for this grand design, which they undoubtedly will attempt before the allies can put themselves in a state to oppose them, by the augmentation of their forces.-Progress of the French arms in Italy. It is not thought that any considerable enterprise can be executed this winter within the states of the Duke of Savoy. It is whispered that the project of a general accord will pass before the commencement of the year between all the princes interested in the war. Arrival of the Cardinal d'Estrées at Versailles, charged with a letter of the Pope for the French King, and some grand hints for terminating the war of Piedmont. The cantons of Zurich, Basle, &c. persist in demanding from the King a supply of grain, which is impossible to grant to them.-Attempt to revive the taxes on members of the palace towards the support of the poor. Amounts at which the various officers are taxed. The Irish regiments serving in Piedmont are so wasted that they talk of reducing them to two, under the name of the King and Queen of England, unless they can procure a sufficient number of soldiers to recruit the four. The Comte de la Vaugnion committed suicide yesterday. 1693, Nov. 24. Dec. 4. The Hague.-P.S. to the preceding letter. The news from Sweden indicates that the Comte d'Avaux is not in so great consideration at that court as formerly, since the differences we have had with that crown, touching certain vessels taken by their subjects; the matter, however, has been arranged by their promise to give satisfaction. Conferences attended by the Duke of Holstein. The French are endeavouring by all manner of intrigues to procure the naming of a place of negotiation for the peace, but it is not thought that they will be able to succeed. [French. 5 pp.] Nov. 27. Paris.-News letter. The matters 1693, Dec. 7. treated of are-The disposition of the French troops. The bombardment of St. Malo. Disturbances at Charleroy to prevent the removal of corn. Progress of the French troops in Italy, under the Maréchal Catinat. Arrival of the Spanish fleet from Vera Cruz at Cadiz, where they are preparing the gallions intended for Peru. Objects desired by the Duchess of Hanover. [French. 6 pp.] 1693, Nov. 28.-List of peers who have obtained orders for stay of legal proceedings on the ground of privilege of Parliament, with the dates of the orders and the mode of application in Parliament. The earliest case instanced being that of Lord Goring, 21 Feb. 1628-9, by motion, and the latest that of the Lord President, 28 Nov. 1693, by oath. [3 p.] 13 23 1693, Dec. 1. Paris.-News letter. The matters treated of are―The groundless report in Piedmont that an accord had been come to. The courier who arrived yesterday from Lion reported that the Duke of Savoy could not so soon have received the transmissions of England and of the other allies for the continuation of the war. There is no certain news that the army of the Maréchal de Catinat had repassed the Po, but only that the detachment of cavalry which was at Fossari had rejoined the army. Progress of the campaign in Italy. A courier was despatched yesterday with certain propositions for an engagement to the Kings of Sweden and Denmark. Suggested marriage of Madle de Chartres with the Elector of Bavaria. Certain enemy's barks which have appeared before St. Malo since the bombardment have caused a general panic. Military reforms in France. By the care they take to regulate the destination of the funds for the approaching campaign it is certain that the commencement will be made in Flanders and Germany at a much better time than the preceding, so that on the one side they may be able to profit by the absence of King William to penetrate into Holland, at which the remembrance of the last wars and the disunion of the Hollanders with the Spaniards, always causes this court to aim, as the readiest means to cause them to quit the league, and on the other side to enable them to possess themselves of the principal posts of the Neckar and of the mountains of Swabia to open the passage of Germany before the enemy's army be on foot. Reform of the French coinage. [French. 4 pp.] 29 1693, Dec. 19. The Hague.-News letter. The subjects treated of are- -The efforts of the neutral princes to bring about a general peace, on the footing of the treaty of Nimeguen, but the allies do not appear to be disposed, desiring to push their advantage further. They forget nothing here to advance the opening of the approaching campaign. The Council of State employs itself in that with all its power. The directors of the East India Company will pay the 3,000,000 florins, which they will give for the prorogation (sic) of their privileges, by three instalments. The estates of Holland will assemble after New-Year's Day. Orders sent to our troops to make incursions into the enemy's country to prevent the transport of grain and horses. The provinces of Overyssel have signified to the States General that they are agreeable to the increase of the troops of 15,000 men, and to that of 24,000 Swiss for Piedmont, and also to augment the subsidies which the State gives to the Duke of Savoy. There are always conferences between the ministers of the allies and the neutral princes, of whom they proposed to take troops. The governor of Dixmude had made himself master of a chateau between Newport and Ostend, but was speedily driven out by M. de Bel Castel, who commands the four regiments which are last arrived from England, and who has placed a garrison there. The letters from England cause an universal joy in all the country and in Flanders for the good resolutions which the Parliament of that kingdom have taken for the common cause, and which will be the means of enabling us to obtain a good and assured peace. It is reported from Paris that the King has given to the son of M. de Pontchartrain the reversion of the post of Secretary of State for the marine. [French. 24 pp.] 1693-4 Dec. 22. Jan. 1. Paris.-News letter. The subjects treated of are-Prospects of the campaign in Italy. Order taken by the Maréchal de Catinat to prevent his troops from pillaging. It is thought from the preparations making in the country of Luxemburg, that the first movement of the troops will be made to attack the enemy there, so as to operate with greater effect on Flanders or the banks of the Rhine. The Marquis de Montbrun had died at Turin, of the wounds received at the battle of Marsaille. The frigate l'Alcion, returning from Toulon with grain, passed the Straits, notwithstanding the guard of eight Spanish vessels of war. Couriers were continually being despatched to Dunkirk for the arrival of a convoy of grain, which was expected from the north, and on which they counted as absolutely necessary to the State. [French. 6 pp.] 1693-4, Jan. Paris.-News letter. The subjects treated of are-The resolution of the Pope to employ his means to aid in the restoration of peace in Europe. He has made known to the King [of France], by the Nonce Cavalerini, those whom he intends to send before the commencement of the campaign into the borders of the Christian princes, to work to this end, and who are said DUKE OF NORTHUM BERLAND. DUKE OF NORTHUMBERLAND. to be conversant with all the particular interests. His Majesty has sent order to Cardinal de Jansons to expound his intentions to the Sacred College, for which he is to make efforts to gain over the principal members by money. They think only of how to procure funds for the approaching campaign, which will be, according to all appearances, one of the most bloody that has ever been. The object of the King [of France] is to oblige the allies to accept the mediations of the Northern Courts, who will propose as a preliminary a suspension of arms, during the continuance of which they will debate the pretensions of either party, and principally the abdication of King James [II.]; it is for this subject that they furnish with zeal all the magazines, and that they are making extraordinary preparations even to the prejudice of the internal affairs of the kingdom [of France]; the suspensions of all payments, and even those of the troops are for to amass considerable sums, which, being distributed adroitly at the commencement of the campaign, may be able to produce marvellous effects. Mr. Amelot having written to the court that the Swiss officers complained to the cantons, and that they were resolved to quit [the French] service if they should not receive their pay, it has been resolved to give them satisfaction. Nothing is as yet definitely determined touching the [French] armaments, by land and sea, which ought to be formidable; and it would seem that they await the result of that which the allies should have determined and the arrival of all the [French] generals in Paris, so as to determine in a general council the measures necessary for the approaching campaign. The disarmament of all the vessels was only a feint, for the letters from the coast assert that they are preparing a powerful armament, which would be in readiness to engage the allied fleet before the end of March. Advices from Flanders report the arrival of 4,000 muids of grain at Dunkirk, the vessels in which it was laden having escaped the three English men-of-war; likewise a little has arrived at Brest and Havre-de-Grâce. They report from Strasbourg that the Rhine between Rhinfelt and Brissac was frozen over; nevertheless the troops stationed on that river have not made any movement, and it seems that they will not attempt any enterprise before March. Export of gold and silver from the southern ports of France to be recoined by the Genoese into coins of the [French] King, said already to have amounted to 1,800,000ft. Great anxiety to learn the resolutions which. shall have been taken in the diet of Poland, touching the peace with the Tartars. Expected arrival of the Maréchal de Catinat at Paris this evening. Return of M. de la Neuville to Poland. Report that the Abbé Morel having changed his cape (petit colet) into a feather and sword, cut a figure as a German officer at the court of Vienna, where he employs all his means, and those of the lords who were attached to this, to gain over the ministers of the Emperor, and to urge them doggedly to a particular accord with the King [of France], and at the same time to facilitate the transmission of the despatches for the Ottoman court, and to receive those of M. de Chateauneuf, who is at the Port[e], and, finally, there is a secret rumour that the Pope has expressly caused the nuncio Cacchia to pass to Vienna, to work in concert with him (the Abbé Morel) for this accord. It is certain that of the 28,000 men of which the army of Piedmont was composed at the commencement of the campaign, only 18,320 attended the review which has been held. Death of the Prince de Lislebonne. [French. 7 pp.] 25 1693-4, Jan. 15. Paris.-News letters. The subjects treated of are-The preparations at Versailles for the opening of the carnival. Refurnishing of the apartments of the late Queen, and exhibition in them of the presents from Siam, and generally all that was most magnificent at the court, as they were intended to serve as a lodging for "R. I." (Roy Jacques ?) and his family, who will come to pass here ten or twelve days. Advices from Flanders that the troops remained inactive on either side, although they make preparations at Dunkirk for some expeditions. The principal members of Parliament went some days ago to visit the hospitals, and make report to the King. Advices from Grenoble that they had seized on the Lake of Geneva two boats, supposed to be laden for the Milanese. Advices from the coast that Capt. Jean Bart, assisted by the Chevalier de St. Clair, had taken some prizes in Norway, with three or four English vessels. His Majesty has inspected a new model of the galleys designed to serve on the ocean by sails and oars; and as those which were made in 1689 had not answered their expectations, they have avoided in these all the faults they detected in the others. A priest of Nimes had been killed whilst celebrating mass. Touching the supplies of grain to be furnished to the commissaries by the inhabitants of Picardy. The commissaries for the army of Germany have purchased a great quantity in Lorain, which they endeavour to transport into Germany. List of the names of twenty vessels arming at Brest. [French. 4 pp.] 30 1693-4, Jan. 20. Paris.-News letter. The subjects treated of are-The replenishment of the magazines on the frontiers with all kinds of military stores, for the use of the troops who are to keep guard there till the beginning of September, that they may be in readiness for any important expeditions into Flanders. They say the number will exceed 30,000, besides ten regiments of foreign troops. As the retinue of the Duke of Orleans are preparing with alacrity, they doubt not to be in readiness in better time than last year. It is supposed that the commencement of the campaign will be as soon as last year. French preparations. The Mediterranean fleet is expected to comprise 40 or 50 vessels, of which 26 are in condition to be armed at Toulon, and 20 others at Brest, to intercept the enemy's commerce in the Levant, and to prevent the passing of their convoys for Smyrna, Alexandria, &c. Advices from Rochelle of the 23rd, that the vessels last arrived from Canada were to be discharged and a new cargo prepared for May. Advices from Normandy and Brittany confirm the news of the arrival of 47 vessels from the North, on those coasts; 40 of which were laden with wheat, metal, and other provisions, under the escort of Captain Bart. [French. 64 pp.] 1693-4, Jan. 22. Feb. 1. Paris.-News letter. The subjects treated of are- -The news of the arrival of Captain Bart. Letters from Rouen confirm the conveyance of 18 barges laden with corn from Havre-de-Grâce for Paris. The misery in Paris increases, so that measures were obliged to be taken to regulate the sale of bread. Letters from Rochefort report the discovery of an attempt to fire the ships there. News from Lions of the descent from Languedoc of 18 boats, laden with bombs, munions, and some pieces of canon for Piedmont. They hold for certain that the siege of Coni will be in such forwardness that in the approaching campaign the enemy may not be able to interrupt it. Endeavour made by M. de Pont-Chartrain to engage the posts of the kingdom, for the reserve of those of Paris, for which already 40,500,000 f. have been offered, but it is said that the general farmers will push them up to 43 millions. All things for defence of the coasts [of France] were put in readiness till August. The King [of France] will find three days for his toilet when he arises from bed, a dozen of satirical maggots as well against the conduct of his Majesty, as that of Madame de Maintenon and of his ministers about the public calamities and the difficulty there is to remedy the same through the credit and talent of that lady. Instructions for a grand procession of the Knights of the Holy Ghost. The Duchess de Grammont, mother of the Maréchal de Boufflers, died on Friday last in Paris, and was carried the next day, at evening, to the Capucins of the Place des Conquêtes. The principal officer of the Hussars committed to the Bastile. [French. 6 pp.] 1693-4, Feb. 1. Paris.-News letter, containing intelligence of the 8th, 12th, 15th, and 16th February (new style). The subjects treated of are-Express orders given to hasten the armaments in all the ports [of France]. M. de Pont-Chartrain, seeing himself hardly pressed for some days by the officers of marine, for their pay, answered that they must have patience, and that they should receive high interest for their money. Hopes of [the French] to disconcert all the preparations of the allies at the commencement of the campaign, and so to cause them to consume the time uselessly during the summer, for to discourage their people and to bring them to the propositions of peace which will be then made by the Mediterranean Powers. For some days the Dauphin has been occupied in receiving from the King instructions for his approaching campaign in Germany; and although they feel assured that the enemy will keep better on his guard than in the past year, nevertheless all imaginable precautions are being taken to draw him to a battle. The King departs the 15th of next month for his house at Chantilly. The Cardinal de Bouillon took his departure yesterday, after having been in conference with the King some days about the choice of a new prince and bishop of Liége. Proposed means to prevent the export of bullion beyond the [French] frontiers, as practised for some years in Ireland. Anticipations of the movements of the Maréchal de Boufflers and the opening of the campaign in Flanders and on the Rhine. Preparations on the Rhine. Du NOF BEI BELAND. pe of Uneasiness at Brest about the fate of the boats which left Rochefort laden with munition and stores. Expected departure of the Maréchal de Catinat for Piedmont. It is surmised that the campaign in Italy will commence early. [French. 8 pp.] 1693-4, Feb. 18. Paris.-News letter, containing intelligence of the 22nd and 26th February. The subjects treated of are-The advices from Mers of the 16th, that the cavalry in Alsace is to be augmented and that the greater part of the troops which are on the Moselle and Saare are destined to serve on the Rhine, where it is said there are above 50,000 infantry and 30,000 cavalry. The [French] court is assured to have of the latter above 62,000 men on foot before the 1st of June, when the opening of the campaign will commence. The collection of military stores and provisions continues. Every means is being tryed to change the garrison of Cazal, which diminishes daily, and is the apparent cause why the Maréchal de Catinat has hastened his return to Piedmont. On Wednesday the Maréchal received his last orders from the King, with whom he conversed a long time on the operations of the campaign; he took his departure this morning to put things in order, and people begin to talk of some grand designs, the one against Coni, the other against Turin, and of another against Final. The attack on one of these places is necessary to facilitate the approach for Casal and to secure winter quarters for the close of the year. A party of troops to be speedily dispatched, that they may be in readiness for service in Germany and Catalogne before the campaign should open there. The baggage of the Dauphin has been increased by 200 horse, because the German campaign, where he will command, will be of longer continuance than last year, it having been settled with the Grand Seignior to hold during the winter all his troops at rest, so as to push the more vigorously in Hungary and on the Rhine the Imperialists, and to force them to an accommodation. Objects of the French in their preparations for the approaching campaign. Intelligence from Mons and Namur confirms that some officers and many soldiers have deserted for want of pay; many of the English who were passed over to Ostend have also done the like, and those who desire to serve King James are sent into Catalogne for to recruit the Irish regiments, which they intend to reform, for to render them more complete. The privateers of St. Malo are preparing to cruize on the coasts of Scotland and Ireland; there 1693-4, NORTHUMBERLAND. with all the places of the Rhine; if the former, Ulm is DUKE OF threatened with pillage; and if the latter, Frankfort with fire, unless redeemed by payment of large sums. Ministerial changes in the French Government. The English solicit the levying of a regiment in the canton of Bern, and it is said that the Grisons are unwilling to grant a passage to the Germans bound for Piedmont. Advices from Lyons that many officers of the troops of Piedmont were on their way to join their regiments; that many cadets were incorporated into the petite gendarmerie, which is in quarters in Dauphiné and Provence; and that the general rendezvous of the troops was in the plain of Grenoble, where the Maréchal de Catinat would hold a review at the end of the month. The proceedings of the enemies of M. de la Barre. Departure of M. Le Dauphin for the campaign against Germany. [4 pp.] Feb. 27, forming Advices from the Hague of the date March 9, a supplement to the preceding. Magnificent preparations at Loo, to receive the Prince Louis de Baden, in the name of the King of England; but he had resolved not to go, but to continue his journey in Germany, so as to assist at the grand council of war which is to be held at Vienna upon the operations of the approaching campaign. The estates [of Holland] have signified to the King of Sweden their readiness to terminate their differences with him about Denmark; by the interposition of his Majesty they have also ratified the treaty which their high mightinesses had made with her. Advices from Liege that the French party there is very considerable; but, nevertheless, they hoped to gain, before the day of election of the new bishop, the greater part of the members of the chapter to let the choice rest on some one who should be agreeable to the allies. The King of Denmark seems to be content to release our vessels which are in his ports, when we shall do the like to those of his subjects which are in ours. [Written upon the same paper as the preceding. 14 p.] Feb. 26. 1693-4, Paris.-News letter. The subjects Mar. 8. treated of are-The resolve of the [French] King to make a grand effort at Piedmont, so as to oblige the Duke of Savoy to abandon the party of the allies. ProMay. Prospects of the approaching campaign in Italy. posed attack to be made on Turin at the beginning of Although our clergy are said to be very rich, nevertheless they cannot find the sums promised to the King. The [French] court does not yet despair, but that the Cardinal de Bouillon may assist at the election of a new bishop of Liege. The troops in the north-west of France quit their winter quarters the end of this month for the defence of the frontiers. At Rochefort they are preparing a quantity of mortars. It is thought that the Duke of Orleans will command, as in the past year. The payment of the [French] troops is ceased until the receipt of the new funds. All the governors of the maritime places and of the coast will be much in arrears. The Maréchal de Tourville has orders to depart instantly for Brest. Advices relative to the election of the bishop of Liege. One of the [French] King's vessels has sent into Lisbon a Hollandish prize of 44 pieces of cannon bound from Amsterdam for Cadiz, estimated of the value of 400,000H., and advices from St. Malo of the 3rd report that there was arrived an English prize, also estimated at 400,000H. [French. 4 pp.] Supplement to the preceding advices from Brussels of March 9. The [allies] devote themselves with all possible eagerness to the preparations for the approaching campaign. Orders given to advance a considerable number of troops to the frontier of Liege, and they commence very soon to canton 25,000 men. [Written upon the same paper as the preceding. French. p.] Second supplement. Advices from the Hague. Letters from Vienna of the 27th April say that a treaty is concluded between the Emperor and the King of Sweden, by which the latter engages to furnish the Emperor with 13,000 men, the one moiety to serve in Hungary and the other on the Rhine, because advices from all parts assert that the Turks and French will make extraordinary efforts during this campaign. Advices from Switzerland that Lord Galloway is yet at Zuric for to press the levies which that canton is to furnish to the King of England. Many pretenders to the employments of the deceased Comte de Hornes. Prince Louis of Baden has given here great hopes that he will have assembled his army on the Rhine so soon as and even before the enemy shall have assembled theirs. The matters in difference between the Estates |