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Governor's Letter-Book, Annapolis, 1719-1742. |
127 |
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to enquire into the matter, forwards proceedings, and awaits instructions from the Board.
(signed.) Registered by Wm Shirreff Sec.ry. Lawrence Armstrong
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1739. |
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Rehearses that as the King of Spain has failed to pay down the £95,000 agreed upon (on Jan. 14th, 1738) as balance of compensation due for injuries to British subjects, H. M. George II "has thought himself Obliged to take Such Measures on his Part as are necessary for the Support of the Honour and Dignity of his Crown, the Security of the just Rights of his Subjects and the good and safety of his Dominions"; and has therefore ordered the ships and effects of the King of Spain and his subjects to be seized and taken wherever they shall be met with. A. is to warn settlers in all parts of his government against Spanish reprisals, and that they may "Annoy the Subjects of Spain in the best Manner they are Able." Sends herewith Royal warrant for issuing letters of marque against Spain. A. is to be "very Rigorous and Severe in preventing any Ammunition or Stores of any kind from being Carried to the Spaniards."
(signed.) Registered by Wm Shirreff Sec.ry. Holus Newcastle
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June 15. Whiteball. |
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Rehearses the reason for ordering reprisals upon Spain: depredations of Spanish garda costas and commissioned ships in the West Indies: many cruelties and barbarities to British subjects; no satisfaction for injuries made by Spain; violations of the agreement Jan.14th,1738, by failure to pay the damages stipulated. Therefore "We do . . . Authorize and Impower you" to issue letters of marque and reprisal, provided that the usual securities are given.
(signed.) By His Majesty's Command Registered by Wm Shirreff Sec.ry. Holus Newcastle
1. In the King's name: addressed to Philipps with his full title, or in his absence to the Commander-in-Chief, or the President of the Council in N. S.
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June 15. Kensington. |
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