The commissioners from Connecticut denied the facts chusetu. which had been stated. They insisted, that Mr. Fenwick Reply of never had agreed to run the line with them; and that^"116 their running the line, at their own expense, was not owing to any defect of his, nor on the part of Connecticut; for they ran the line a year before the dispute with Mr. Fenwick respecting Waranoke. Besides, they said, what he promised at that time, was not to run the line, but to clear his claim to that plantation. With respect to the patent, they acknowledged, they had not indeed exhibited the original, but a true copy, to the authenticity of which Mr. Hopkins could give oath. They observed, it was well J<»own that they had a patent; that the original was in England, and could not then be exhibited ; and that the Massachusetts insisting on this point was an entire bar to the amicable settlement of the line between the colonies. Mr. Hopkins insisted, that the southerly extent of the Massachusetts patent ought first to be mutually settled; then he proposed, that the line should be run by skilful men, mutually chosen, and at the mutual expense of the colonies. The commissioners from Connecticut indeed declared, that it was evident, beyond all doubt, that Springfield, at first, was settled in combination with Connecticut; and, that it had been acknowledged to be so even by the colony of Massachusetts. They affirmed, that when propositions were sent, by governor Winthrop, to the plantations upon the river, in 1637, relative to a confederation of the New-England colonies, Mr. Pyncheon, in prosecution of that design, was, in 1638, chosen and sent as a commissioner from Connecticut, to act in their behalf: That it was at this time, and never before, he suggested his apprehensions, that Springfield would fall within the limits of Massachusetts ; and that this was received as a fact without any evidence of what had been alledged. They expressed it, as their full persuasion, that Mr. Pyncheon's representations and motion, at that time, originated from a pang of discontent which had overtaken him. in consequence of a censure laid upon him, by the general court

of Connecticut.* They concluded by expressing their earnest wishes, that both the government of the Massachusetts and their commissioners would consider, that they did not comply with the advice of the commissioners relative to the present dispute; and that they insisted upon what they knew could not, at that time, be obtained. They charged them, with an unwillingness to submit the differences, subsisting between them and Connecticut, to the mature and impartial judgment of the Commissioners of the other colonies, according to the true intent of the confederation. In a very modest and respectful manner, they referred it to the serious consideration of their brethren of the Massachusetts, whether their conduct was not directly contrary to the articles and design of the confederates, to which they all ought to pay a conscientious regard.t

The commissioners finally decided the controversy in favor of Connecticut. Upon this the gentlemen from Massachusetts produced an order of their general court, passed by way of retaliation, imposing a duty upon all goods belonging to any of the inhabitants of Plymouth, Connecticut or New-Haven, imported within the castle, or exported from any part of the bay.|

This was very extraordinary indeed, as it was contrary to all the arguments from justice, liberty, expediency, or brotherly love, which they had pleaded against their sister colony. It was extravagant and unreasonable, as it respected Connecticut; as the impost at Saybrook affected the inhabitants of one of their towns only; and that solely upon the export of two or three articles ; whereas their impost was upon the inhabitants of all the plantations in the colony; and upon all their imports, as well as exports. With respect to the other colonies, who had laid no kind of imposition on any of the inhabitants of Massachusetts, it was still more unjust and cruel.

The commissioners from Plymouth, Connecticut and New-Haven, in consequence of this extraordinary act, drew up the following declaration and remonstrance, addressed to the general court of Massachusetts.

" A difference between the Massachusetts and Connecticut, concerning an impost at Saybrook, required of Springfield, having long depended, the commissioners hoped, according to the advice at Plymouth, might, at this meeting, have been satisfyingly issued : but upon the perusal of some late orders made by the general court of the Book I. Massachusetts, they find, that the line on the south side of S^-v-n^ the Massachusetts jurisdiction is neither run, nor the 1649. place whence it should be run agreed : That the original patent for Connecticut, or an authentic exemplification thereof, (though Mr. Hopkins hath offered upon oath to assert the truth of the copy by himself presented,) is now required ; and that a burthensome custom, is, by the Massachusetts, lately imposed not only upon Connecticut, interested in the impost at Saybrook, but upon Plymouth and New-Haven colonies, whose commissioners, as arbitrators, according to an article in the confederation, have been only exercised in the question, and that upon the desire of the Massachusetts, and have impartially, according to their best light, declared their apprehensions ; which custom and burthen, (grievous in itself) seems the more unsatisfying and heavy, because divers of the Massachusetts deputies, who had a hand in making the law, acknowledge, and the preface imports it, that it is a return, or retaliation upon the three colonies for Saybrook: and the law requires it of no other English, nor of any stranger of what nation soever. How far the premises agree with the law of love, and with the tenor and import of the articles of confederation, the commissioners tender and recommend to the serious consideration of the general court for the Massachusetts. And in the mean time desire to be spared in all future agitations respecting Springfield."*

Declaration of the commissioners.

* It -re n,- the court had blamed him for a particular instance of hi* conduct, in trading with (he Indian?. i Records of the united cojonies. 1 !h.ii Ian ..n. vol. \. p. 154, \5^

Governor Hutchinson observes, that this law was produced to the dishonor of the colony: That had the Massachusetts imposed a duty upon goods from Connecticut only, they might, at least, have had a colour to justify them ; but that extending their resentment to the other colonies, because their commissioners had given judgment against them, admitted of no excuse. It was a mere exertion of

£ower, and a proof of their great superiority, which enaled them, in effect, to depart from the union, whenever they found it to be for their interest. If it had been done by a single magistrate, it would have been pronounced tyrannical and oppressive. He observes that, in all ages and countries, communities of men have done that, of which most of the individuals, of whom they consisted, would, acting separately, have been ashamed.!

The Massachusetts treated Connecticut in the same un- Manner of generous manner, with respect to the line between the coU Jh^ns onies. In 1642, they employed one Nathaniel Woodward runnjng

* Records of the united colonies. e°

t !1 'jtchinron, vol. i. p. p. 155, 166.

Y

Book I. and Solomon Saffery, whom Douglass calls two obscure ^r-v-^/ sailors, to run the line between them and Connecticut. 1649. They arbitrarily fixed a boundary, as the exact point to which three miles south of every part of Charles river would carry them. Thence by water they proceeded up Connecticut river, and setting up their compass in the same latitude, as they supposed, declared, that the line struck the chimney of one Bissell's house, the most northern building then in the town of Windsor. This was a whole range of towns south of the true line between the colonies. Connecticut considered the boundary fixed as entirely arbitrary, and six or eight miles further south than it ought to have been. They imagined, that the error at Windsor was still greater, as no proper allowance had been made for the variation of the needle. They viewed the manner in which this had been effected, as contrary to all the rules of justice, and to the modes in which differences of that magnitude ought to be accommodated. The utmost extent of Narraganset river was their north line, and they were persuaded, that this would run so far north as to comprehend the town of Springfield, and other towns in the same latitude. Therefore, neither Connecticut, nor the commissioners of the united colonies, considered any boundary as properly settled, whence the fine should be run, nor any line run between the colonies.

Connecticut wished to have the southern boundary of Massachusetts mutually settled and the line run, at the joint expense of the two colonies; but Massachusetts would neither consent to this, nor even allow that the copy of the Connecticut patent was authentic. For nearly seventy years they encroached upon this 'colony, and settled whole towns within its proper limits.

The general court of Connecticut adopted the recommendation of the commissioners, with respect to the prohibition of all trading of foreigners among the Indians of the united colonies. They made the penalty to be the confiscation of all vessels and goods employed in suck trade.

The as- The court also, after conferring with New-Haven, deM-miiiy 's termined to avenge the blood of John Whitmore, of Stamt\on'io,°T *OT^' an(*' cons'dering all its circumstances, and the conrest mur- duct of the Indians in the town, and bordering upon it, resolved, that it was lawful to make war upon them. It was ordered, that fifty men should be immediately drafted, armed, and victualled, for the purpose of bringing the murderers to condign punishment, or of arresting other Indians, until the delinquents should be delivered to justice.* These * Records of Connecticut.

spirited measures appear to have had the desired effect. Book I. The Indians at Stamford, it seems, became peaceable, and ^x-v-**/ there is nothing further upon the records respecting any 1650, trouble with them.

CHAPTER X.

Court of Election at Hartford. Grants to Captain Mason. The commissioners meet and dispatch Captain Atherton to the Narragansets. Their message to Ninigrate. The Dutch governor arrives at Hartford, and refers the differences between him and the colonies to arbitrators. Their determination, and the line is fixed between the English and Dutch plantations. Agreements with Mr. Femeick occasion general uneasiness. Committees are appointed to explain and ascertain them. Towns are invited to attend ihe committees, by their deputies, at Saybrook. An act for the encouragement of Mr. Winthrop, in seeking and improving mines. Norwalk and Mattabeseck settled, and made towns. The colony of New-Haven make another attempt to settle at Delaware. The Dutch governor seizes the company, and frustrates the design. He pursues his former line of conduct towards the colonies. The resolutions of the commissioners relative to his conduct, to the settlement of Delaware, and the tribute to be paid by the Peguots. French commissioners from Canada. Their proposals. Reply to them. The Dutch governor and Indians concert a ptan to extirpate the colonies. The commissioners meet, and dispatch agents to the Dutch governor. Ttu ij determine upon war, unless he should manifest his innocence, and redress the grievances of the colonies. They determine on the number of men to be raised, and draw a declaration of the reasons of the war. The agents return unsuccessful. The commissioners meet again, and determine to make war upon the Dutch and Narraganset Indians. The general court of Massachusetts refuses to raise men, and prevents the war. Altercations between that general court and the commissioners, and between that and the general courts of Connecticut and New-Haven. The alarm and distress of the planta

. tions in these colonies. Their general courts protest against thf court of Massachusetts, as violators of the articles of

Book I. confederation , and write to Cromwell and the parliament v^-v-v^ for assistance. The tumultuous state of the inhabitants in 1 650. several of the towns.

Election, jf.TPON the election at Hartford, Mr. Hopkins was cho

May 16th. ^J scn governor, and Mr. Haynes deputy governor. Mr.

Clark was added to the magistrates. The court consisted

of thirty-two members ; the governors, ten assistants, and

twenty deputies.

Grant to The court had granted a thousand acres of land to cap

Mason, for his good services in the Pequot war ; five a*on. hundred to himsctffand five hundred to be given to his five best officers and soldiers. It was now ordered, that the five hundred acres granted to the soldiers, should be laid out for them at Pequot, or in the Neanticut country. The next year the court made a grant of Chippachauge island, in Mystic bay, and a hundred and ten acres of land at Mystic, to the captain.

CommU- The commissioners met this year at Hartford. The

sionere meeting consisted of Mr. Simon Bradstreet and Mr. Wil

Sept'sth. l'am Hawthorne, Mr. Thomas Prince and Mr. John Brown,

and pf Governors Hopkins and Haynes, Eaton and Good

year. Governor Hopkins was chosen president.

Captain As the Narragansets still neglected to pay the tribute

Atherton ^bich na(j been so many years due, the commissioners

Narragan- dispatched captain Atherton, of Massachusetts, with twenty

set. ° men, to demand and collect the arrearages. He was au

thorised, if they should not be paid, upon demand, to seize

on the best articles he could find, to the full amount of what

was due; or on Pessacus, the chief sachem, or any of his

children, and carry them off. Upon his arrival among the

Narragansets, he found the sachom recurring to his former

arts, putting him off with deceitful and dilatory answers,

and not suffering him to approach his presence. In the

mean time, he was collecting his warriors about him. The

captain, therefore, marched directly to the door of his wig

wam, where posting his men, he entered himself with his

pistol in his hand, and seizing Pessacus by the hair of his

head, drew him from the midst of his attendants, declaring,

that if they should make the least resistance, he would dis

patch him in an instant. This bold stroke gave him such

an alarm, that he at once paid all the arrearages.

t Ninigrate, sachem of the Nehanticks, continuing his per

fidious practices, began to lay claim to the Pequot country,

and appeared to be concerting a plan to recover it fronv

the English. Captain Atherton, therefore, made him a visit,

/and, accprding to his instructions, assured him, that the

commissioners were no strangers to his intrigues, in mar- Book I. Tying his daughter to the brother of Sassacus ; in collect- vx-vw nig the Pequots under him, as though he designed to be- 1650. come their head ; and in his claims and attempts respecting the Pequot country. He remonstrated against his conduct, as directly opposite to all the covenants subsisting between him and the English colonies. He protested to him, that the colonies would never suffer him to accomplish his designs ; either to possess any part of the country which they had conquered, or even to hunt within its limits. He demanded where the brother of Sassacus was ? What numbers he had with him ? And what were his designs ? He insisted upon categorical answers, that the commissioners might order their affairs accordingly. Having, in this spirited manner, accomplished his business, he returned in safety.

Meanwhile, Stuyvesant, the Dutch governor, arrived at Sept. inh. Hartford. He had been often invited to attend the meet- ^1^TM ing of the commissioners, with a view to the accommodation of the difficulties subsisting between him and the English colonies. He chose to treat by writing, and on the Corres13th* day of September, he introduced his correspondence pondcncc with the commissioners. In his letter ho complained ofcommen" the encroachments made upon the West India company, and the injuries done them, both by Connecticut and NewHaven. He pretended, that the Dutch, in behalf of said company, had purchased the lands upon the river, of the native Americans, before any other nation had bought them, or laid any claim to them. He, therefore, demanded a full surrender of said lands, and such compensation as (he nature of the case required. He also complained ot the act prohibiting all foreigners to trade in the English colonies, and that the English sold goods so cheap to the natives, as to ruin the trade for other nations. He concluded with intimations of his willingness to settle a general provisional line, between the Dutch and English plantations, by a joint writing to their superiors in England and Holland, or by the decision of agents, mutually chosen and empowered for that purpose.

The commissioners, observing that his letter was dated at New-Netherlands, replied, that they would not treat, unless he would alter the name of the place where he wrole. n^cting He answered, that if they would not date at Hartford, he the place would not at New-Netherlands, but at Connecticut. They of dating, consented, that he should date at Connecticut, but claimed a right for themselves to date at Hartford, He gave * 23d old 9tyle; a»he dated.

Book I. up the right of dating at the Netherlands, and the treaty >^~v-v^ proceeded.

1650. The commissioners replied to his complaints, to this efReplyof feet: That their title to Connecticut river, and the adjathe com- cent country, had been often asserted, and made sufficientto'the"618 ly evident, both to the Dutch and English ; and that they Dutch hoped amply to prove their title to what they enjoyed, by complaints patent, purchase, and possession. Consequently, they insisted, that they had made no encroachments on the honorable West India company, nor done them the least injury. They affirmed, that they knew not what the Dutch claimed, nor upon what grounds : That at some times they claimed all the lands upon the river, and at others, a part only : That their claim was founded sometimes upon one thing, and at other times upon another ; and that it had been so various and uncertain, as to involve the whole affair in obscurity,

With respect to trade, they observed, that they had the same right to regulate it, within their jurisdiction, which the Dutch, French, and other nations had to regulate it, within their respective dominions : That their merchants had a right to deal with the natives on such terms as they pleased; and that they presumed they did not trade to their own disadvantage. They gave intimations that, if the then present treaty should succeed agreeably to their wishes, they might reconsider the act of trade, and repeal the prohibition respecting foreigners.

They then proceeded to a large and particular statement Statement of the grievances they suffered from the Dutch; particuof their larly representing those which have been already noticed anceir"^" 'n tms n'slorv-> Wltn several other more recent injuries. Especially, that the Dutch agents had gone off from Hartford, without paying for the goods which they had taken up: That their successors had refused to make any settlement of their accounts; and that the Dutch governor had not obliged them to make payment: That the Dutch bought stolen goods, and would make no compensation to the English, whose property they were: And that they had, not only formerly, helped criminals to file off their irons and make their escape ; but that they had been guilty of a recent instance of similar conduct. They alleged, that a Dutch servant had, lately, assisted a criminal, committed for a capital offence, to break gaol and make his escape : and that the Dutch called him to no account, for so gross a misdemeanor.

Arbitra- Various letters passed, and several days were spent, in sen. these altercations. At length, the commissioners chose Mr. Bradstrect, of Massachusetts, and Mr. Prince, of Ply- Book I. mouth, as arbitrators, to hear and compose all differences v^-^-s»/ with respect to injury and damages ; to make provisional 1650. boundaries, in all places where their respective limits were rontroverted, and to settle a just and free correspondence between the parties. The Dutch governor chose Thomas Willet and George Baxter for the same purpose. Both parties, in the most ample manner, authorised the arbitrators to hear and determine, in the most full and absolute manner, all differences between the two nations in this country.

The arbitrators, after a full hearing of the parties, came to the following determination, which they drew up in the form of an agreement.

" Articles of an agreement, made and concluded at DetenniHartforcl, upon Connecticut river, September 19th, 1650, °ation °f

iii ,-11 i < I the arbi

betwixt the delegates ot the honored commissioners of the trators. united English colonies, and the delegates of Peter Stuy vesant, governor general of New-Netherlands.

I. " Upon a serious consideration of the differences and grievances propounded by the two English colonies of Connecticut and New-Haven, and the answer made by the Dutch governor, Peter Stuyvesant, Esq. according to the trust and power committed to us, as arbitrators, and delegates betwixt the said parties : We find that most of the offences or grievances were things done in the time, or by the order and command of Mons. Kieft, the former governor, and that the present honorable governor is not prepared to make answer to them ; we therefore think meet to respite the full consideration and judgment concerning them, till the present governor may acquaint the H. M.* States and West India company with the particulars, that so due reparation may accordingly be made."

II. " The commissioners, for New-Haven, complained of several high and hostile injuries which they, and others of that jurisdiction, have received from and by order of the aforesaid Mons. Kieft, in Delaware bay and river, and in their return thence, as by their former propositions and complaints may more fully appear; and besides the English right, claimed by patent, presented and showed several purchases they have made, on both sides the river and bay of Delaware, of several large tracts of land unto, and somewhat above the Dutch house or fort there, with the consideration given to the said sachems and their companies for the same, acknowledged and cleared by the hands of the Indians, who they affirmed were the true proprietors; Book I. and testified by many witnesses. They also affirmed, that.

* H. M. High and Mighty.

v^-v^/ according to the best of their apprehensions, they have 1650. sustained 1000 pounds damage there, partly by the Swedish governor, but chiefly by order from Mons. Kieft. And therefore required due satisfaction, and a peaceable p6ssession of the aforesaid lands, to enjoy and improve according to their just rights. The Dutch governor, by way of answer, affirmed and insisted on the title and right to Delaware, or the south river, as they call it, and to the lands there, as belonging to the H. M. States and Westlodia company ; and professed he must protest against an/ other claim ; but is not provided to make any such proof, as in such a treaty might be expected, nor bad he commission to treat or conclude any thing therein. Upon consideration whereof, we, the said arbitrators or delegates, wauting sufficient light to issue or determine any thing in the premises, are necessitated to leave both parties in stain quoprius, to plead and improve their just interest, at Delaware, for planting or trading, as they shall see cause : Only we desire, that all proceedings there, as in other places, may be carried on in love and peace, till the right may be further considered and justly issued, either in Europe or liere, by the two states of England and Holland."

HI. " Concerning the seizing of Mr. Westerhouse'tship and goods, about three years since, in New-Haven harbour, upon a claim to the place, the honored governor, Peter Stuy vesaut, Esq. professed, that what passed in writing that way was through error of his secretary, his intent not being to lay any claim to the place, and with all affirming, that he had orders to seize any Dutch ship, or vessel, iu any of the English colonies or harbours, which should trade there without express license or commission. We therefore think it meet, that the commissioners of NewHaven accept and acquiesce in this answer."

" Concerning the bounds and limits betwixt the English United colonies, and the Dutch province of New-Netherlands, we agree as followeth."

I. " That upon Long-Island, a life run from the westernmost part of Oyster-Bay, and so a straight and direct line in the sea, shall be the bounds betwixt the English and Dutch there, the easterly part to belong to the English, and the westernmost to the Dutch."

II. " The bounds upon the main to begin at the west side of Greenwich bay, being about four miles from Stamford, and so to run a northerly line, twenty miles up into the country, and after, as it shall be agreed, by the two governments of the Dutch and New-Haven, provided the said line come not within ten miles of Hudson's river. Book I. And it is agreed, that the Dutch shall not, at any time here- v^~v^ after, build any house or habitation within six miles of the 1650. said line; the inhabitants of Greenwich to remain (till further consideration thereof be had) under the government of the Dutch."

III. " The Dutch shall hold and enjoy all the lands in Hartford, that they are actually possessed of, known and set out by certain marks and bounds, and all the remainder of the said land, on both sides of Connecticut river, to be and remain to the English there."

" And it is agreed, that the aforesaid bounds and limits, both upon the island and main, shall be observed and kept inviolable, both by the English of the united colonies, and all the Dutch nation, without any encroachment or molestation, until a full and final determination be agreed upon, in Europe, by the mutual consent of the two states of England and Holland."

" And in testimony of our joint consent to the several foregoing conclusions, we have hereunto set our hands this 19th day of September, AnnoDom. 1650."

Simon Bradstreet,
Thomas Prince,
Thomas Willet,
George Baxter.

The Dutch governor promised also, and his agents, Messrs. Willet and Baxter, engaged for him, that Greenwich should be put under the government of New-Haven, to whom it originally belonged. It was also agreed, that the same line of conduct which had been adopted, with respect to fugitives, by the united colonies, in the eighth, article of confederation, should be strictly observed between them and the Dutch, in the province of New-Netherlands. The Dutch governor also acquainted the commissioners, that he had orders from Europe to maintaia peace and good neighbourhood with the English in America ; and he proceeded so far as to make proposals of a nearer union and friendship, between the Dutch and the united colonies. The commissioners declined acting upon these proposals, without consulting their constituents; and recommended the consideration of them to their respective general courts.

While this settlement with the Dutch seemed to give a General favorable aspect to the affairs of the colonies, there arose a ^pectine great and general uneasiness in Connecticut, relative to the the agreeagreements which had been made with Mr. Fenwick, and ments with to the state of the accounts between him and the colony. '

By die first agreement, besides the impost on several articles exported from the mouth of the river, for ten years, the people were obliged to pay one shilling annually for every milch cow and mare in the colony, and the same sum fur every swine killed either for market or private use. Springfield refused to pay the impost; and it seems that Connecticut was obliged, by the conduct of Massachusetts, to repeal the act relating to the imposition. By reason of the controversy which arose between Connecticut and Massachusetts, and some other circumstances, several of the towns, during the two first years, paid but a small proportion of what had been stipulated. The colony therefore, on the 17th of February, 1646, made a new agreement with Mr. Fenwick. This was to the following effect:

That, instead of all former grants, he should receive from the colony, annually, one hundred and eighty pounds, for ten years. He was to collect what was due from Springfield, and-to enjoy certain profits arising from the beaver trade. A hundred and seventy or eighty pounds was also to be paid to him from Saybrook and one or two newly settled towns. The whole amount appears to have been more than 2,000 pounds, which the colony paid for the right of jurisdiction, the ordnance, arms and stores at the fort.* As different apprehensions had arisen, respecting these agreements, and the state of affairs between Mr. Fenwick and the colony, the general court appointed committees to meet at Saybrook to ascertain them. To quiet theminds of the people, notice was given to every town of the time and place of the meeting of the committees, and eacU was authorized to send representatives to hear the disputes and report the issue, with the reasons of it, to their constituents. By these means the inhabitants obtained general satisfaction.

Mr. John Winthrop, at the election, was chosen into the magistracy. The assembly consisted of thirty four members ; twelve magistrates and twenty two deputies.

The colony of Rhode-Island gave great trouble to her neighbours, by giving entertainment to criminals and fugitives. Connecticut found it so prejudicial to the course of justice and to the rights of individuals, that the court resolved to recommend the consideration of the affair to the commissioners of the united colonies.t

Mr. Winthrop imagined, that Connecticut contained * See the agreements, Numbers V and VI.

t Augustus Harr.iman, a Dutcli trader, with his vessel, was seized by the people of Sayhrook for illicit trade with the Indians. The court fined him 40 pounds and confiscated his vessel and cargo. They also made him give u in writing, under his linnd, that he bad b*en well treated.

mines and minerals, which might be improved to great ad- Book I. vantage to individuals, as well as to the public emolument. ^*~~/+*s Upon a motion of his, the assembly passed the following 1651. act.

" Whereas, in this rocky country, among these moun- Act l° cn' tains and rocky hills, there are probabilities of mines ofthe JisCOvmetals, the discovery of which may be of great advantage er^ of to the country, in raising a staple commodity; and where- nimes. as John Winthrop, Esquire, doth intend to be at charges and adventure, for the search and discovery of such mines and minerals; for the encouragement thereof, and of any that shall adventure with the said John Winthrop, Esquire, in the said business, it is therefore ordered by the court, that if the said John Winthrop, Esquire, shall discover, set upon, and maintain such mines of lead, copper or tin ; or any minerals, as antimony, vitriol, black lead, allum, stone salt, salt springs, or any other the like, within this jurisdiction ; and shall set up any work for the digging, washing and melting, or any other operation about the said mines or minerals, as the nature thereof requiftth; that then the said John Winthrop, Esquire, his heirs, associates, partners or assigns, shall enjoy forever, said mines, with the lands, wood, timber and water, within two or three miles of said mines, for the necessary carrying on of the works, and maintaining of the workmen, and provision of coal for the same: provided it be not within the bounds of any town already settled, or any particular person's property ; and provided it be not in, or bordering upon any place, that shall, or may, by the court, be judged fit to make a plantation of."

Though the eastern and middle parts of Norwalk had settlebeen purchased more than ten years, yet there had been ment of only a few scattering inhabitants within its limits. ButNorvvalk' the last year, upon the petition of Nathan Ely and Richard Olmstead, the court gave liberty for its settlement, and ordained that it should be a town by the name of Norwalk. The western part of it was purchased on the 15th of February. The inhabitants, at this time, consisted of about twenty families. About four years after, the general court vested them with town privileges. The situation of the place is very agreeable ; the harbor is pleasant and safe, and the lands rich, yielding plenteously. The air is uncommonly healthful and salubrious.*

* From the first settlement of the town, to 1732, a^term of moK than 80 years, there was no general sickness, except the m. .. ji , in the town. From 1715, to 1719, there died in that large town, twelve persons only. Out of one train band, conMsting of a hundred men, there died not one person, from 1716, to 1730, during the term of fourteen ,year», Mr:-. Hueford, relict of the first minister of the town, died Sept. 12th, J730, aged| 100 years. Manuscripts of the Rev. Moses Dickinson.

Book I. The settlement of Mattabeseck commenced about the --*-v-^/ same time. The principal planters were from England, 1651. Hartford, and Weathersfield. The greatest number were Settle- from Hartford. There was a considerable accession from Midduf Rowleyt Chelmsford, and Woburn, in Massachusetts. By " the close of this year it became considerably settled. In November, 1653, the general court gave it the name of Middletown. Twenty years after, the number of shares was fixed at fifty-two. This was the whole number of the householders, at that period, within the town.

The agreement, made the last year, with the Dutch governor, and his professions of amity, encouraged the English to prosecute the settlement of the lands, which they had purchased in the vicinity of the Dutch.

Fifty men from New-Haven and Totoket, made prepations to settle their lands at Delaware. This spring, mey hired a vessel to transport themselves and their effects into those parts. They had a commission from governor Eaton; and he wrote an amicable letter to the Dutch governor, acquainting him with their design ; assuring- him, that, according to the agreement at Hartford, they would settle upon their own lands, and give no disturbance to their neighbours. A letter, of the same import, was also addressed to him from the governor of Massachusetts, But no sooner had governor Stuyvesant received the letters, -- ^an he arrested the bearers, and committed them close people prisoners, under guard. Then sending for the master of imprisoned the vessel to come on shore, that he might speak with him, Ihitch ke arrested and committed him. Others, as they came on governor, shore, to visit and assist their neighbours, were confined with them. The Dutch governor desired to see their commission, promising it should be returned when he had taken a copy. But when it was demanded of him, he would not return it to them. Nor would he release the men from confinement, until he had forced them to give it under their hands, that they would not prosecute their voyage; but, without loss of time, return to New-Haven. He threatened, that, if he should afterwards find any of them at Delaware, he would not only seize their goods, but send them prisoners into Holland. He also caused a considerable part of the estate of the inhabitants of Southampton to be attached, and would not suffer them to remove it within the jurisdiction of the English. Captain Tapping, Mr. Fordham, and others, therefore complained, and petitioned to the commissioners for redress,

They met this year at New-Haven. The members were Book I. Mr. Bradstreet and captain John Hawthorne, Mr. John v.x^^-x^ Brown and Mr. Timothy Hatherly, governor Hopkins and 1651. Mr. Ludlow, governors Eaton and Goodyear. Governor CommisJEaton was chosen president. sioners

Jasper Crane and William Tuttle, in behalf of them- N^-Haselves, and many others, inhabitants of New-Haven and ven. Totoket, presented a petition to the commissioners, com- ^P*-14utplaining of the treatment which they had received from Petition the Dutch governor, and representing, that they had sus- Je*PectinK

j i_ t LjTj jj i-i Delaware.

tamed more than three hundred pounds damage, besides

the insult and injury done to the united colonies. They showed, that the Dutch had seized, and were about to fortify, upon the very lands which they had bought of the original proprietors at Delaware: That, had it not been for the injustice and violence of the Dutch, the New-England colonies might have been greatly enlarged, by settlements in those parts ; that the gospel might have been published to the natives, and much good dpne, not only to the colonies, at present, but to posterity. They also represented, that the Dutch were, by gifts and art, enticing the English to make settlements under their jurisdiction. They insisted, that suffering them thus to insult the English, and to seize on lands to which they could shew no just claim, would encourage them to drive them from their other settlements, and to seize on their lands and property, whenever they pleased; and that it would make them contemptible among the natives, as well as among all other nations. They pressed the commissioners, therefore, to act with spirit, and immediately to redress the injuries which had been done to them and the colonies.

The commissioners nevertheless, declined acting against The com. the Dutch, without previously writing, and attempting to mi*sionert obtain redress by negotiation. They wrote to Stuyvesant, remoninsisting that he had acted in direct contravention of the *pTMiesTM agreement at Hartford, and noticed that, in a letter to gov- v;;.m-t the ernor Eaton, he had threatened force of arms, and blood- Dutch shed, to any who should go to make settlements upon their 8oTernor lands, at Delaware, to which he was unable to show any claim. They represented to him, how deficient it appeared at Hartford, not only to the commissioners, but even to the arbitrators of his own choosing. They charged him with a breach of the engagement of Mr. Willet and Mr. Baxter, in his behalf, with respect to the restoration of Greenwich to the government of New-Haven. They remonstrated against his conduct, in imprisoning the people pf New-Haven and Totoket, in detaining their coaimission, and frustrating their voyage ; and also in beginning to erect fortifications upon the lands of the New-Haven people, at Delaware. They affirmed, that they had as good a right to the Manhadoes, as the Dutch had to those lands. They declared that the colonies had just cause to vindicate and promote their interests, and to redress the injuries which had been done to their confederates. They protested, that whatever inconveniences or mischief might arise upon it would be \vhollychargeable to his unneighbourly and unjust conduct.

At the same time, for the encouragement of the petitionerS) they resolved, that if, at any time, within twelve montns» they should attempt the settlement of their lands, at Delaware, and, at their own charge, transport a hundred and fifty, or at least a hundred men, well armed, with a good vessel or vessels for such an enterprise, with a sufficient quantity of ammunition ; and warranted by a commission from the authority at New-Haven, that then, if they should meet with any opposition from the Dutch or Swedes, they would afford them a sufficient force for their defence. They also resolved, that all English planters, at Delaware, cither from New-Haven, or any other of the united colonies, should be under the jurisdiction of New-Haven.

The Pequots among the Moheaga'ns and Narragansets, an(j those who had removed to Long-Island, had, to this t'me' neglected to pay any part of the tribute, which had been stipulated, at Hartford, in 1638, upon condition, that the English would spare their lives and defend them from their enemies. The general court had given orders, that it should be collected forthwith, and had appointed captain Mason to go to Long-Island, and demand it of the Pequots there, as well as of those in other places.

Uncas, with a number of the Moheagans, andofNinigrate's men, therefore presented himself before the cornmissioners; and, in behalf of the Pequots, paid a tribute of about three hundred fathoms of wampum. He then, in their name, demanded, why this tribute was required ? How long it was to continue ? And whether it must be paid by the children yet unborn ?

The commissioners answered, that, by covenant, it had been annually due ever since the year 1638 : That after a just war, in which the Pequots were conquered, the English, to spare, as far as might be, the blood of the guilty, accepted of a small tribute, as expressed in the covenant. They insisted, that they had a right to demand it as a just debt. They observed, that twelve years tribute was now due, reckoning only to the year 1650; but that, to sh9\r

(heir lenity, and encourage the Pequols, if they would be- Book Ihave themselves well, and pay the tribute agreed upon, for \^-^s^s ten years, reckoning from 1650, they would give them all 1651. which was due for past years; and that, at the expiration /

of the ten years, they and their children should be free. This, it seems, they thankfully accepted, and afterwards became as faithful friends to the English as the Moheagans. They assisted them in their wars with other Indians ; especially, in that against Philip and the Narragansets.

While the commissioners were at New-Haven, two French French gentlemen, Monsieur Godfrey and Monsieur Ga- agents briel Druillets, arrived in the capacity of commissioners fr"m Can" from Canada. They had been sent by the French governor, Monsieur D'Aillebout, to treat with the united colonies. They presented three commissions, one from Mon- Present sieurD'Aillebout, another from the council of New-France,ti*". com" and a third to Monsieur Gabriel Druillets, who had beenTM authorized to publish the doctrines and duties of christianity among the Indians.

In behalf of the French in Canada, and the christianized gue for Indians in Acadia, they petitioned for aid against the Mo- aid agaimt hawks and warriors of the six nations. They urged, that 'I'6 *IX na~ the war was just, as the Mohawks had violated the most solemn leagues, and were perfidious and cruel: That it was a holy war, as the Acadians were converted Indians, and the Mohawks treated them barbarously, because of their christianity. They insisted, that it was a common concern to the French and English nations, as the war with the six nations interrupted the trade of both, with the Indians in general.

Monsieur Druillets appeared to be a man of address. Their adHe opened the case to the best advantage, displaying all his dressart, and employing his utmost ability to persuade the commissioners to engage in the war against the six nations. He urged, that, if they would not consent to join in the war, they would at least, permit the enlistment of volunteers, in the united colonies, for the French service; and grant them a free passage through the colonies, by land or water, as the case might require, to the Mohawk country. He also pleaded, that the christianized Indians might be taken under the protection of the united colonies. He made fair promises of the ample compensation which the French would make the colonies for these services. He represented, that, if these points could be gained, they would enter immediately upon a treaty, for the establishment of a free trade between the French and English in all parts of America,

Book I. The reply of the commissioners exhibits policy and pruv^-v-^/ dence ; snowing, that they were not ignorant of men, nor 1651. of the arts of negotiation. They answered, that they lookReply of ed upon such Indians, as had received the yoke of Christ, the com- witn another eye, than upon those who worshipped the .in--ioners, d^il . ipj^t they pitied the Acadians, but saw no way to help them, without exposing the English colonies, and their own neighbouring Indians, to war: and that some of those Indians professed christianity no less than the Acadians. They observed, that it was their desire, by all just means, to keep peace, with all men, even with these barbarians ; and that they had no occasion for war with the Mohawks, who, in the war with the Pequots, had shown a real respect to the English colonies, and had never since committed any hostility against them. They declared their readiness-to perform all offices of righteousness, peace, and good neighbourhood towards the French colony; yet, that they could not permit the enlisting of volunteers, nor the marching of the French and their Indians through the colonies, without giving grounds of offence and war to the Mohawks, and exposing both themselves and the Indians, whom they ought to protect. They observed, that the English engaged in no war, until they were satisfied that it was just, nor until peace had been offered on reasonable terms, and had been refused: that the Mohawks were neither in subjection to the English, nor in league with them; so that they had no means of informing themselves what they could say in their own vindication. They, also, assured the French ambassadors, that they were exceedingly dissatisfied with that mischievous trade, which the French and Dutch had carried on, and still continued, with the Indians, in vending them arms and ammunition, by which they were encouraged, and made insolent, not only against the christian Indians and catechumens, but against all christians in Europe, as well as America. But if all other difficulties were removed, they represented, they had no such short and convenient passage, by land or water, as might be had by Hudson's river to fort Aurania and beyond, in the possession of the Dutch. They concluded, by observing, that the honoured French deputies, as they conceived, had full powers to settle a free trade between, the English and French colonies; but if, for reasons best known to themselves, it was designed to limit the English, by the same restraints and prohibitions to which the uwprivileged French were subjected, not suffering them to trade, until they had obtained a particular license from the governor and company of New France, they must wait at more favourable opportunity for negotiation. Such an op- Book I. portunity, whenever it should offer, they intimated they v^-v^*, should readily embrace.* 1651.

The commissioners, apprehending that there was little Letter to prospect of obtaining a redress of their grievances from j^£ * the Dutch, by remonstrance and negotiation, wrote to Mr. Winslow, agent for Massachusetts in England, on the subject. They represented the claims and rights of the colonies, and the injuries which they suffered from the Dutch. They insisted, that their conduct was a high affront, not only to the colonies, but to the honour of the English nation. They desired Mr. Winslow to inquire how the parliament and council of state esteemed the ancient patents, and how any engagements of the colonies against the Dutch, for the defence of their rights, would be viewed by the parliament. It was desired, that he would give them the earliest information on the subject.

The people at New-Haven persisted in their purpose of Capf Mamaking, if possible, a permanent settlement upon their son invited lands at Delaware. They were sensible, that such was *" IeTMove the situation of their affairs, that a leader, who was not only ware? * a politician, but a man of known courage, military skill and experience, would be of great importance to the enterprise. They, therefore, made application to captain Mason, to remove with them to Delaware, and take on him the management of the company. They made him such offers, that it seems he had a design of leaving the colony, and putting himself at the head of the English settlements in those parts. But the general court at Connecticut, would by no means consent. They unanimously desired him to entertain no thoughts of changing his situation. This appears to have prevented his going, and to have frustrated the design.

The grand list of the colony appears this year, for the first time, upon the records. There are the lists of seven Lot of the towns only. The others either paid no taxes, or their lists oJ.JJ'Jth. were not completed and returned. The amount of the whole, was 75,4921. 10s. 6d. It appears that the towns, at this period, were not, upon an average, more than equal to our common parishes at this day.

At the general election in Connecticut, in 1652, the for- Election, tfier magistrates were re-elected. **ay 2" .

The commencement of hostilities, the last year, between s .
England and Holland, the perfidious management of the
Dutch governor, with apprehensions of the rising of the
Indians, spread a general alarm through the colony.
* Recprds of the united colonies.

Book I. The assembly convened on the 30th of June, and adopt\-*-v-^s ed several measures for the common safety. Orders were 1652. given, that the cannon at Saybrook should be well mountJune 30th. ed on carriages; that the fort should be supplied with ammunition; and that the inhabitants, who were scattered abroad, should collect their families into it, and hold themselves in the best state of readiness for their common defence.

Indians re- The Indians in the vicinity of the several plantations, quired, to within the colony, were required to give testimony of their their anns friendship and fidelity to the English, by delivering up their April, ' arms to the governor and magistrates. Those who refuitfoS. sed, were to be considered as enemies.

Stuy vesant, the Dutch governor, made no satisfaction for past injuries; but added new insults and grievances to those which were past. He again revived the claims which he had renounced at Hartford ; and though he restrained the Dutch from open hostility, yet he used all his arts with the Indians to engage them to massacre the English colonists.

A discovery was made in March, that he was confederate with the Indians, in a plot for the extirpation of the April 19th, English colonies. An extraordinary meeting of the comconimis- rnissioners Was called upon the occasion. It consisted of meet" Governor Endicott, Mr. William Hawthorne, William Bradford, Esq'r. Mr. John Brown, Mr. Ludlow, Captain Cullick. Governor Eaton, and Captain John Astwood. Gov. Endicott was chosen president.

Upon a close attention to the reports which had been spread, and a critical examination of the evidence, all the commissioners, except those of the Massachusetts, were oi. the opinion, that there had been a horrid and execrable Plot of the plot, concerted by the Dutch governor and the Indians, i iuich and j-or t|ie destruction of the English colonies. Ninigrate, it appeared, had spent the winter at the Manhadoes, with Sluyvesant, on the business. He had been over Hudson's river, among the western Indians ; procured a meeting of the sachems; made ample declarations against the English ; and solicited their aid against the colonies. He was brought back in the spring, in a Dutch sloop, with arms Evidence and ammunition from the Dutch governor. The Indians, of it for some hundreds of miles, appeared to be disaffected and hostile. Tribes, which before had been always friendly to the English, became inimical; and the Indians boasted, that they were to have goods from the Dutch, at half the price for which the English sold them, and powder as plenty as the sand. The Long-Island Indians testified to the plot. Nine sachems, who lived in the vicinity of the Dutch, Book I. sent their united testia>onyvto Stamford, " that the Dutch s«*-v«^/ governor had solicited them, by promising them guns, pow- 1653. der, swords, wampum, coats, and waistcoats, to cut off the March 17. English." The messengers who were sent, declared, ' they were as the mouth of the nine sagamores who all spake, they would not lie." One of the nine sachems, afterwards, came to Stamford, with other Indians, and testified the same. The plot was confessed by a Wampeag and a Narraganset Indian, and was confirmed by Indian testimonies from all quarters.* It was expected, that a Dutch fleet would arrive, and that the Dutch and Indians . would unite in the destruction of the English plantations. It was rumoured, that the time for the massacre was fixed upon the day of the public election, when the freemen would be generally from home.

The country was exceedingly alarmed ; especially Con? A.Ia"» and necticut and New-Haven. They were greatly hindered in ^'^lotheir ploughing, sowing, planting, and in all their affairs. u\ea. They were worn down with constant watching and guarding, and put to great expense for the common safety.

Six of the commissioners were satisfied, that they had just grounds of war with the Dutch. They drew up a general declaration of their grievances, for the satisfaction of the people. They also stated the evidence they had of the conspiracy, which they supposed was then in hand. They determined, nevertheless, before they commenced hostilities against the Dutch, to acquaint the governor with the discovery which they had made, and to give him an opportunity of answering for himself.

In the mean time letters arrived from the Dutch governor, in which he appeared, with great confidence, absolutely to deny the plot which had been charged upon him. He offered to go or send to Boston to clear his innocence ; or desired that some persons might be deputed and sent to the Manhadoes, to examine the charges and receive his answers. Other letters arrived at the same time confirming the evidence of the conspiracy, and representing, that the Indians were hastened to carry it into execution.

The commissioners determined to send agents to the gov- Agents ernor; and with the utmost dispatch made choice of Fran- dj?atfhh' cis Newman, one of the magistrates of New-Haven, cap- Dutch tain John Leveret, afterwards governor of Massachusetts, and Mr. William Davis. They vested them with plenary powers to examine the whole affair, and to receive the governor's answer, according to his own proposals. * Records of the united colonies.

Book I.

1653. Letters to him and his council.

Troops to be railed.

The Dutch governor

ri vi <ids examination.

Stuyvesant, in his letters, pretended to express his adr miration, that the English should give credit to Indian testimony. The commissioners, therefore, in their reply, charged him with making use of heathen testimony against New-Haven; and observed, that Kieft, his predecessor, had used Indian testimonies against the English in a strange manner, in a case of treason, and life or death. They also acquainted him with the bloody use which the Dutch governor and his council had made of the confession of the Japanese, against captain Towerson and the English christians at Amboyna, though it was extorted by torture.

They wrote to Monsieur Montague and captain Newton, who were of the Dutch governor's council, that his protestations of innocence gave them no satisfaction. They charged the fiscal,* as well as the governor, with the plot. They stated their grievances, demanded satisfaction for past injuries, and security for the future.

While their agents were employed at the Manhadoes, they determined on the number of men to be raised, in case of a war. For the first expedition they resolved to send out five hundred ; and appointed captain Leveret to the chief command. They also determined, that, should they engage in war with the Dutch, the commissioners of the united colonies should meet at New-Haven, to give all necessary directions respecting the expedition, and to order the war in general.

Notwithstanding the fair proposals which governor Stuyvesant had made, he would submit to no examination, fay the agents, any further than a committee of his own appointing should consent. Two of the committee were persons who had been complained of for misdemeanors, at Hartford; and one of {hem had been laid under bonds for his crimes. The agents conceived, that the very proposal of such persons as a committee was a high affront to them, to the united colonies, and to the English nation. Besides, the Dutch governor would not suffer the witnesses to speak unless they were previously laid under such restraints as would prevent all benefit from their evidence. The agents not only objected to the committee, and declined all connection with them, but remonstrated against the restraints proposed to be laid on the witnesses. Finding that nothing could be effected with respect to the design of their agency, they, in a spirited manner, demanded satisfaction for insults and injuries past, and security against future abuse, and took leave of the Manhadoes.

4s they returned, they took various testimonies respect:* That is, the treasurer.

fng the plot; some from the Indians, and others from the Book I. English, sworn before proper authority. Before their re- v^-v-^/ turn, the commissioners were dispersed, and the general 1653. elections were finished. The courts at Connecticut and Agents New-Haven voted their respective quotas of men, appoint- returned their officers, and gave orders, that all necessary prepations should be made for the designed expedition.

On the election at Hartford, the former officers were JJ^'sof rechosen. The time of election, at New-Haven, had been New-Hachanged from October to May ; and this year was on the veu. 25th of the month. The governors were the same as they had been for several years, Eaton and poodyear. The magistrates were, Mr. William Fowler, Mr. John Astwood, William Leet, Esquire, Mr. Joshua Atwater, and Mr. Francis Newman. Mr. Atwater was treasurer, and Mr. Newman secretary.

Immediately, on the return of the agents, from the Man- Commkhadoes, the general court of Massachusetts summoned an- »'°ne» other extraordinary meeting of the commissioners, at Boston, about the last of May. The commissioners were all the same who composed the last meeting, except Mr. Bradstreet in the room of governor Endicott, who was obliged to attend the general court.

The agents made report of the treatment which they had Agents received from the Dutch, and of such evidence as they had make retaken of the plot on their return. The commissioners were Portalso certified, that the Indians, on Long-Island, had charged the fiscal wjth the plot; and that captain Underbill, having reported what the Indians declared, was seized and carried by a guard of soldiers, from Flushing to the Manhadoes, where he was confined by the fiscal, until what Ik; had reported, was affirmed to his face: then he was disjnissed, without trial, and all his charges borne. No sooner had the agents taken their departure from the Manhadoes, than the captain, because he had been actire in exhibiting the evidence of the Dutch and Indian conspiracy, notwithstanding all the important services he had rendered the Dutch, was ordered to depart. The commissioners received a letter from him, May 24th, representing the extreme danger in which he and all the English were, assuring them, that as necessity had no law, he had, like Jeptha, put his life in his hand, to save English blood; and that he was waiting their orders, with loyalty to them and the parliament, to vindicate the rights of the nation. The Dutch demanded, that all the English among them should take an oath of fidelity to them. This, in case of war, plight have induced them to fight against their own nation,

Book I. The people of Hampstead, at the same time, represented ^rv~^s ^at they were in the utmost danger, and wrote, in the 1653. most pressing manner, for arms and ammunition, to defend themselves. Letters were also sent from Connecticut and New-Haven, with intelligence, that the Dutch governor, by presents of wampum, coats, and other articles, was exciting the Mohawks, and various Indian tribes, to rise and attack the English, both on Long-Island, and on the main.

A long letter from the Dutch governor was also received, in which, in general terms, he excused himself relative to the plot; but he gave no encouragement of the least satisfaction, in a single instance; or that the colonies should be more safe from injury and insult, for the future. Indeed, he still insulted them, renewing the claims, both to Connecticut and New-Haven, which he had given up at Hartford.

TV com- All the commissioners, excepting Mr. Bradstreet, voted rTfo"6TM for war against tne Dutch. He was under the influence of war. the -general court of Massachusetts, who were using all their arts to oppose the commissioners, and prevent open hostility. The commissioners, however, so strenuously urged the justice and necessity of an immediate war with the Dutch, and so spiritedly remonstrated against the conduct of the court, as violators of the articles of union, that they appointed a committee of conference with them. They desired, that a statement of the case might be made, and the advice of the elders taken on the subject. The committee of the court were major Denison and captain Lev* cret.

The commissioners replied, that their former declaration, their letter to the Dutch governor, and the evidence before them, afforded clear and sufficient light in the affair. Nevertheless, they appointed captain Hawthorne, Mr. Bradford, and governor Eaton, a committee to confer with the gentlemen appointed by the court. Governor Eaton drew a state of the case, in behalf of the committee of the commissioners. The committee from the general court would not consent to it, but drew a statement of their own. Under the influence of the general court, and the different representation which their committee had made, the elders gave their opinion :

Advice of " That the proofs and presumptions of the execrable plot, the ciders. ten(jing to the destruction of so many of the dear saints ot" God, imputed to the Dutch governor and the fiscal, were of such weight as to induce them to believe the reality ot" it; yet they were not so fully conclusive, as to clear up a. present proceeding to war before the world.; and to bear up their hearts with that fulness of persuasion, which was Book I. meet in commending the case to God, in prayer, and tov-*"v-»./ the people in exhortations; and that it would be safest for 1653. the colonies to forbear the use of the sword; but advised to be in a posture of defence, and readiness for action, until the mind of God should be more clearly known, either for a more settled peace, or manifest grounds of war."

It seems, that the affair was very partially referred to the ministers, whether the evidence of the plot was so clear as to warrant a war; whereas, this was but one circumstance among many, which might render it just and necessary. These ought to have been considered, no less than the other. The deputies of the court concurred with

the clergy.

ii 11 t nc Governor

In the mean time, all the commissioners, except Mr. Eaton's

Bradstreet, continued determined for war. Governor Ea- representon insisted, that the Dutch had, for many years, during a***'TM "' succession of governors, multiplied injuries and hostile af- con(juct. fronts, with treachery and falsehood, against the English, to their very great damage : That these injuries had been fully and repeatedly represented to them, and satisfaction demanded; yet that nothing had been received in return, but dilatory, false, and offensive answers. He observed, that the governor and his associates had been formerly suspected and accused of instigating the Indians against the English ; and that now a treacherous and bloody plot had been discovered, and charged upon him and his fiscal, by more witnesses than could have been expected ; that by it the peace of the country had been disturbed, their owh lives, the lives of their children, and all their connexions, had been in constant jeopardy : That though they had allowed the Dutch governor a fair opportunity of clearing himself, of making satisfaction, and securing the colonies for the future; yet that, by his conduct, he had increased the evidence of his guilt; and that he had given the colonies no security for their future peace and safety ; nor had they the least reason to expect them. He insisted, that the English, under the jurisdiction of the Dutch, were in the most immediate danger, not only from them, but the Indians, through their instigation; because they would not submit to an oath to join with them in fighting against their own nation. He urged, that the insolence, treachery, and bitter enmity, which the Dutch had manifested against the nation of England, and all the English abroad, as they had opportunity, were sufficient to assure them that, as soon as the States General should be able to send a small fleet to the Manhadoes, the colonies could not be safe, either in their persons or property, by land or sea. He further insisted, that the state of the commonwealth of England, and of the colonies, was such as called for war; and that, if either of the colonies should refuse to join in it, against the common enemy, and if any of the plantations, through such refusal, should be destroyed, the guilt of such blood would lie upon them.*

Some faithful people in the Massachusetts were entirely opposed to the conduct of their general court, and ventured to express their opinion. The Rev. Mr. Norris, of Salem, sent a writing to the commissioners, representing the necessity of a war. He urged, that if the colonies, in their then present circumstances, should neglect to engage in it, it would be a declaration of their neutrality in. the contest; iriight be viewed in that light by the parliament; and be of great and general disservice to their interests : That the spending of so much time in parlies and treaties, after all the injuries they had received, and while the enemy was insulting them, and fortifying against them, would make them contemptible among the Indians: That it was dishonoring God, in whom they professed to trust, and bringing a scandal among themselves. He insisted that, as their brethren had sent their moan to them, and desired their assistance, if they should refuse, the curse of the angel of the Lord against Meroz would come upon them. This, he said, he presented in the name of many pensive hearts.t

But nothing could induce the Massachusetts to unite with their brethren, in a war against the Dutch. The general court, in direct violation of-the articles of confederation, resolved, that no determination of the commissioners, though they should all agree, should bind the general court to join in an offensive war, which should appear to such general court to be unjust. This declaration gave great uneasiness to the commissioners, and to the sister colonies. Indeed, it nearly effected a dissolution of their union.

The commissioners, finding that the Massachusetts would not submit to their determination, nor afford any assistance to her confederates, dissolved.

In this important crisis, governor Haynes called a special court, on the 25th of June. The court resolved, that the fears and distresses of the English, bordering upon the Dutch, and the damages which they had sustained, should be forthwith represented to the magistrates in Massachusetts : That the opinion of the court, respecting the power

of the commissioners to make war, and the reasons of their Book I. opinion, should be communicated. They also determined, ^x-v-x^ that their messengers should humbly pray, that war might 1653. be carried on against the Dutch, according to the determination of the commissioners. The messengers were instructed, to use their influence, that three magistrates might have power to call a meeting of the commissioners, at Hartford or New-Haven, to conduct the affairs of the war, as occasion might require. If this could not be obtained they were to desire that liberty might be given to enlist volunteers, in the Massachusetts, for the defence of the colonies.

Governor Haynes and Mr. Ludlow, were appointed to confer confer with governor Eaton and his council on the sub- with New ject. The court at New-Haven were no less clear and Haven, unanimous, in the opinion of the power of the commissioners to declare war and make peace, than the general court at Connecticut; and that all the colonies were absolutely bound by their determination. Both colonies united in sending the messengers, and in the purport of their message. But nothing more could be obtained, than the calling of another meeting of the commissioners, at Boston.

They met on the llth of September. The resolutions Commisof the general courts of Connecticut and New-Haven were sioners produced, expressing their entire approbation of the deter- SfV'iirti mination of the commissioners, and remonstrating against ! the declaration of the general court of Massachusetts, and the sense which they had put on the articles of confederation.

The general court of Massachusetts returned an answer to this effect: that since their brethren of the other colonies had apprehensions different from theirs, they judged it might conduce most to peace to wave the point in controversy. At the same time, they intimated they had no occasion to answer them.

The commissioners refused to accept this as an answer. Reject tj,e They insisted, that they had ample powers, from all the answer of other colonies, to determine, in all affairs of peace andtbe Kenera' war; and that this was consistent with the grammatical, MassV^ and true sense of the articles of confederation. They in- chu*etts. sistrd, that it was totaJly inconsistent, not only with the Altercaarticles of union, but with the welfare of the colonies, tions bethat they should be at so much expense and trouble, t meet and deliberate on the general interests of the confederates, if their determinations were to be annulled by one court and another.

The general court, on their part, insisted, that the deterBook I. initiations of the commissioners, could not bind them to a v^-v-^/ war which they could not see to be just; and that it was 1653. inconsistent with the liberties of the colonies, that their decisions should compel them to action.

The commissioners replied, that no power could bind men to do that which was absolutely unlawful; but that their authority was as absolute, with respect to war and peace, as any authority could be; and that it was their province only to judge of the justice of the cause. They maintained, that it could be no infringement of the rights of the colonies, to be bound by the acts of their own agents, vested with plenary powers for those very acts. They represented the religious and solenm manner in which the confederation was made; that, by its express words, it was a perpetual league for them anu their posterity, in which their eight commissioners, or any six of them, should have full power to determine all affairs of war and peace, leagues, aids, &c : That every article had been examined, not only by a committee of the four general couvts, but by the whole court of Massachusetts, at the time whew it was completed : That many prayers were addressed to heaven for its accomplishment, while it was under consideration ; nnd that the carrying of it into execution, had been an occasion of abundant thanksgiving. They said, that aftev practising upon it for ten years, the colonies had experienced the most salutary effects, to the great and general advantage of all the confederates. In these views, they insisted, that the violation of it would be matter of great sin in the presence of God, and of scandal before men. They referred it to the serious consideration of the general court, whether they would not, in his sight who knew aU hearts, be guilty of this sin and scandal ?

The general court earnestly requested, that they would drop the dispute, and enter upon business. Their commissioners also pressed the same. But, with a spirit of magnanimity and firmness, becoming their character, they utterly refused ; determining, to a man, after drawing a remonstrance against the Massachusetts, to return to their respective colonies, and leave the event with the supreme ruler.

No sooner had the general court intelligence of what was transacting, than they dispatched a writing to the commissioners, apparently retracting all which they had before advanced in opposition to them. It was, however, expressed artfully in doubtful language. Upon the reception of this, they proceeded to business.

Ninigratc, ever since the Pequot war, had been the common pest of the colonies. He had violated all his Book 1. contracts with them ; had fallen on the Ldng-Island In- ^~v^> clians, who were in alliance with the English, and slain 1653. mafly of them ; and carried others, men, women, and chil- Conduct of dren, into captivity. By his hostilities, he gave alarm and Ntn'Sratetrouble to the English plantations, on the island, in the neighbourhood of the Indians. When messengers had been sent to him, demanding that he would return the captives, and desist from war, he absolutely refused; and would give no account of his conduct. He had now spent the winter with the Dutch governor, in concerting measures against the English colonies ; and had been beyond Hudson's river, spiriting up the Indians there, as well as in other quarters, to a general rising against them. The commissioners therefore declared war against him, and ap- War de_-\ pointed the number of men and officers for the service, clared aThey also again resolved upon war against the Dutch, gainsthim. All the commissioners joined in these resolutions, except Mr. Bradstreet. But they were to no purpose. The general court refused to bear any part in the war against either.

The commissioners protested against the members of Protest athe court of Massachusetts, as violators of the confedera- Mat*achution. They pressed it as an indispensable duty, to avenge setts. the blood of innocents, who had depended on them for safety, and had suffered on the account of their faithfulness to the colonies; to recover their wives and children from captivity; to protect their friends from the insults of barbarous and bloody men; and to vindicate the honor of themselves, and of the nation.*

The Massachusetts nevertheless persisted in their oppo- j^ _ sition to the commissioners, and would bear no part in the sist m their war. Their desertion of their confederates was matter of opposition great injury and distress to them; especially to Connect!- ^^j.. cut and New-Haven. They were notvonly obliged to put sioaer=. up with all former insults and damages from the Dutch; but after they had been at great expense already, in fortifying and guarding against the Dutch and Indians, and had been worn down with anxiety and watching, from the very opening of the spring, they were still left to their fears, and obliged to combine together for mutual defence, in the best manner of which they were capable.

Few instances occur in history, of so flagrant and obstinate a violation of a covenant, so solemnly made, as this of the general court of Massachusetts ; especially, of a cove

* Records of the united colonies, in which this controversy is recorded *tlarge.

nant made between Christians of the same nation, and all professed brethren of the same faith. What interest the Massachusetts made by thus favoring the Dutch, is not known ; but surely it is painful to relate the indelible stain, which the legislature of so ancient and respectable a colony have left, by this conduct, upon their honor, as men, and upon their morals, as christians.

The general courts of Connecticut and New-Haven were convoked soon after the return of the commissioners. That at New-Haven convened on the 12th of October, and the court at Connecticut, on the 25th of November. Both considered the court of Massachusetts as having wilfully violated the articles of union. The general court at NewHaven expressly resolved, " that the Massachusetts had broken their covenant with them, in acting directly contrary to the articles of confederation."

Both colonies therefore determined to seek redress from the commonwealth of England. Captain Astwood was ap'pointed agent to the lord protector and parliament, to represent their state, and to solicit ships and men for the reduction of the Dutch. Connecticut and New-Haven conferred together, by their committees, and letters were sent, in the name of both the general courts, containing a complete statement of their circumstances. It was agreed, that the address to lord Cromwell should be concluded in the words following :

" That unless the Dutch be either removed, or so far, at least, subjected, that the colonies may be free from injurious affronts, and secured against the dangers and mischievous effects, which daily grow upon them, by their plotting with the Indians, and furnishing them with arms against the English; and that the league and confederation between the four united English colonies, be confirmed and settled according to the true sense, and, till this year, the continued interpretation of the articles, the peace and comfort of these smaller, western colonies, will be much hazarded, and more and more impaired. But as they conceive it their duty, thus fully to represent their afflicted con-* dition to your excellency, so they humbly leave themselves, with the remedies, to your consideration and wisdom."

As governor Hopkins was now in England, he was desired to give all assistance in his power, to the agent whom they had agreed to send. Connecticut dispatched letters to the parliament, to general Monk, and Mr. Hopkins.

As Stamford was a frontier town, a guard of men

dispatched for its defence. Connecticut and New-Haven Book I. provided a frigate of ten or twelve guns, with forty men, V^-nt^./ to defend the coast against the Dutch, and to prevent Nin- 1653. igrate and his Indians from crossing the sound, in prose- Provide a cutionof his hostile designs against the Indians in alliance fn?at<.for with the colonies.* J*"

The towns bordering upon the Dutch, on Long-Island, were in great distress and alarm. Captain Underhill sent to his friends at Rhode-Island, for assistance ; and, with such Englishmen as he could obtain, made the best defence in his power. However, Hampstead and some other towns were continually harassed, and suffered much damage and insult from the Dutch.

Indeed, this was a year of uncommon alarm, expense, and distress to Connecticut and New-Haven. Early in the spring they were filled with the most terrible apprehensions of a sudden and general massacre. A great proportion of time was employed, by the magistrates and principal men, in meetings of the general courts, of the commissioners, of committees and officers to consult and provide for the general safety ; in raising men and making preparations for war. The common people, at the same time, were called off from their labors and worn down with watching and guarding by night and day.

The Dutch, at New-Netherlands, waited only fora reinibrcement from Holland to attack and reduce the English tima of a colonies. Of this, both they and the English were in con- Dutcletant expectation. It was reported, and feared, tbat when fleet< the signals should be given from the Dutch shfps, the Indians would rise, fire the English buildings, and begin their work of destruction.

Providence, however, combined a number of circum- Circumstances for the preservation of the exposed colonies. The ttanees defeat of the Dutch fleet by the English, and the spoil f,TM*^"6 which they made upon their trade, prevented the arrival of nies. the expected reinforcements; the Indians could not be united; many of the sachems said, the English had done them no injury, and they would not fight them. The early intelligence, received by the colonies, of the plans which they and the Dutch were concerting, and the constant watch and guard which the plantations maintained disconcerted them. By these means, a general attack upon them was prevented.

Another mischief however arose. Some of the towns, '''sturand many of the people, in the colonies of Connecticut and Stamford New-Haven, were so dissatisfied that the war was not and Fair* Recorili sf Connecticut anJ New-Haven. "e'^.

Book I. prosecuted against the Dutch, according to the resolution \^-\^^/ of the commissioners, that they were with great difficulty 1653. restrained from open mutiny and rebellion. They imagined, that Connecticut and New-Haven were sufficient to subdue the Dutch, and ought to have undertaken an expedition against them.

Stamford and Fairfield, in particular, became very disorderly. The former complained, that the government was bad, and the charges unreasonable; and that they tfere neglected, and deprived of their just privileges. They pretended to set up for the government of England, for their liberties, as they called them, in opposition to the government of the colony. They sent to the general court at New-Haven desiring them to prosecute the war against the Dutch ; resolved to raise a number of men among themselves ; and prayed for permission to enlist volunteers in the several towns.

The town of Fairfield held a meeting on the subject, and determined to prosecute the war. They appointed Mr. Ludlow commander in chief. He was in the centre of the evidence against the Dutch ; had been one of the commissioners, at the several meetings relative to the affair; had been zealous and active for the war; and conceiving himself and the town in imminent danger, unless the Dutch could be removed from the neighbourhood, too hastily accepted of the appointment. Robert Basset and John Chapman were the heads of this party. They attempted to foment insurrections, and, without any instructions from authority, to raise volunteers, for an expedition against the Netherlands.

The general court, at New-Haven, judged that the season was too far advanced to undertake the enterprise. They nevertheless determined to consult Connecticut, and to proceed or not, as the council there should judge most expedient.

It was now the latter part of November, and it was the

general opinion, that ships and men could not be seasonaly provided.

Deputy governor Goodyear and Mr. Newman were dispatched to Stamford to compose the minds of the people. They called a meeting of the town, and labored to quiet them; but could make no considerable impressions upon them, until they read an order of the committee of parliament, requiring, that the plantations should be in subjection to the authority of their respective jurisdictions. This appeared to have some good effect. But as the inhabitants had been at great expense, not only in watching and guarding the town, but in erecting fortifications about the Book I. meeting house, they insisted, that the colony should bear a V-x-v-n^ part of the expense, and provide a guard during the win- 1654. ten

The public burthens this year were great. The expenses of the colony of New-Haven were about 400 pounds. The court made some abatements in favour of Stamford ; but Basset and Chapman were punished for attempting to make an insurrection in the colony, and others were bound, in large bonds, to their good behaviour.*

CHAPTER XI.

The death and character of Governor Haynes. The freemen of Connecticut meet, and appoint a moderator. Mr. Ludloto removes to Virginia. The spirited conduct of the people at Mllford, in recovering Manning'1s vessel. The freemen add to the fundamental articles. Fleet arrives at Boston for the reduction of the Dutch. The colonies agree to raise men to assist the armament from England. Peace prevents the expedition. The general court at New-Haven, charge the Massachusetts with a breach of the confederation. They refuse to join in a war against'Ninigrate, and oblige Connecticut and New-Haven to provide for the defence of themselves and their allies. Ninigrate continuing his hostile measures, the commissioners send messengers to him. His answer to them. They declare war, and send an army against him. The art of Massachusetts, and the deceit of Major Willard, defeat the designed expedition. The number of rateable polls, and the amount of the list of Connecticut. The Pequots are taken under their protection. Ninigrate persisting in his hostilities against the Indians upon Long-Island, the general court adopt measures for the defence of the Indians and the English inhabitants there. New-Haven perfect and print their laws. The answer of New-Haven to the protector's invitaiion, that they would remove to Jamaica. Reply of the commissioners to the Dutch governor. Uncas embroils the country. Deaths and characters of Governors Eaton and Hopkins. Settlement of Stonington. Mr. Winthrop cho

* Records of New-Haven. The general court of Connecticut, at their tession in November, ordered that 20 pounds should be paid to the support of a fellowship in Cambridge College.

Book I.

1651.

jDeath of Governor ltaynes.

sen governor. The third fundamental article is altered by the freemen. Mr. Fitch, and his church and people, remove to Norwich. Final settlement of accounts with the heirs of Mr. Femoick. Deputy governor Mason resigns the Moheagan lands to the colony.

THE colony sustained a great loss this year,
death of Governor Haynes. He had been a father
to it from the beginning; employed his e$tate, counsels,
and labours, for its emolument, and bore a large share in
its hardships and dangers. He was a gentleman from the
county of Essex, in England, where he had an elegant seat,
called Copford Hall, worth a thousand pounds sterling a
year. He came into New-England with the Rev. Mr.
Hooker, in 1632, and settled with him, first at Cambridge,
in Massachusetts. His distinguished abilities, prudence,
and piety, so recommended him to the people, that, in
1635, he was chosen governor of Massachusetts. He was
not considered, in any respect, inferior to Governor Win-
ihrop. His growing popularity, and the fame of Mr. Hook-
er, who, as to strength of genius, and his lively and pow-
erful manner of preaching, rivalled Mr. Cotton, were sup-
posed to have had no small influence upon the general
court, in their granting liberty to Mr. Hooker and his com-
pany to remove to Connecticut. There, it was judged,
they would not so much eclipse the fame, nor stand in the
way of the promotion and honour of themselves or their
friends. Upon his removal to Connecticut, he was chosen
governor of this colony. He appeared to be a gentleman
of eminent piety, strict morals, and sound judgment. He
paid attention to family government, instruction, and re-
ligion. His great integrity, and wise management of all
afiairs, in private and public, so raised and fixed his char-
acter, in the esteem of the people, that they always, when
the constitution would permit, placed him in the chief seat
of government, and continued him in it until his death.*

His character.

* The governor, by two wives, had eight children: five sons and three daughters. By his first, he had Robert, Hezekiab, John, Roger, and Mary ; and by his second, Joseph, Ituth, and Mabel. When he came into New-England, he left his sons, Robert and Hczekiah, and lih daughter Mary, at Copford Hall. Upon the commencement of the civil wars in Engjand, Robert espoused the royal cause ; hut Hezekiah, declaring for the parliament, was, afterwards, promoted to the rank of major-general, under Cromwell. Upon the ruin of the king's affaire, Robert was put under confinement, and died without issue. Hezekiah enjojed Copford Hall, under his father, until his decease. He then possessed it as a paternal inheritance, and it descended to his heirs. John and Roger, who came into this country with their father, some time before his death returned to England. Roger died on his passage, or soon after his arrival. John settled in the ministry, at or near Colchester, in the eouoty of l\sex, in England, where he left issue. Joseph was ordained pastor of the first church in Hartford. Mary married Mr. Joseph Cook, in England; Ruth, Mr. Samuel Wyllys, of Hartford ; and Mabel, Mr. James Russell, of Charlestown, in Massachusetts; and all had issue. The Rev. Mr. Haynes, of Hartford, had one son, John, a gentleman of reputation, for some yean one of the magistrates of the colony. He had sons, but they died without issue, and (he name became extinct in this country

Mr. Hopkins was in England, and the colony had neither Book L governor nor deputy governor present, to act in its behalf, v-x-v-^/ The freemen, therefore, in February, convened at Hartford, 1654. and elected Mr. Thomas Wells moderator of the general Feb. 16th. court, until a governor should be chosen.

About this time, there happened a great controversy Controvert between Uncas and the inhabitants of New-London, rela- "y witlt tive to their respective limits. It seems that the inhabit- Uncasants carried the dispute so far, as to rise and take possession of his forts and many of his wigwams. The assembly interposed, and gave orders, that the Indians should not be injured, and that the people should be accountable for all damages which they had done them. A committee was March litv appointed to fix the boundaries between New-London and Uncas, and to compose all differences between the parties.

Nearly at the same time, the colony received an order order of from the parliament, requiring that the Dutch should be parliatreated, in all respects, as the declared enemies df the ment, commonwealth of England. In conformity to this order, Sequestrathe general court was convened, and an act passed seques- tion of the tering the Dutch house, lands, and property of all kinds, j^^ at Hartford, for the benefit of the commonwealth; and the Hartford, court, also, prohibited all persons whatsoever from impro- April 6th* ving the premises, by virtue of any former claim, or title, had, made, or given, by any of the Dutch nation, or any other person, without their approbation.

In the proclamation for a general fast, this spring, the great breach made in the colony, by the death of the governor ; the alienation of the colonies, on account of the violation of the articles of confederation; the spreading of erroneous opinions in the churches; the mortality which had been among the people of Massachusetts; and the calamitous state of the English nation; were particularized as matters of humiliation.

The colony was, this year, deprived of Mr. Ludlow, Mr. Ludone of its chief magistrates. He was one of the most zeal- low leave* ous for prosecuting the war against the Dutch, and no man cn'was more displeased, that the colonies did not follow the determinations of the commissioners. He might appre- Reasons oj hend himself to be particularly in danger at Fairfield. Be- '' sides, he had taken a very hasty and unadvised step, in

Book I. accepting the command of men to go against the Dutch, V^-n/-^/ without any legal appointment. He had, doubtless, apIG54. prehensions of trouble on that account, or, at least, that the freemen would neglect him. For some, or all of these reasons, about this time, he removed with his family to Virginia.* He was-clerk of the town of Fairficld, and carried offtheir records, and other public wakings. He came from the west of England, with Mr. Warham and his company. In 1630, he was chosen into the magistracy of the Massachusetts company ; and in 1634, deputy governor of that colony. He was twice elected deputy governor of Connecticut, and was every year magistrate or deputy governor, from his first coming into the colony, in 1635, until the time of his departure. He appears to have been distinguished for his abilities, especially his knowledge of the law, and the rights of mankind. He rendered most essential services to this commonwealth; was a principal in forming its original civil constitution, and the compiler of the first Connecticut code, printed at Cambridge, in 1672. For jurisprudence, he appears to have been second to none who came into New-England at that time. Had be possessed a happier temper, he would, probably, have been the idol of the people, and shared in all the honours . which they could have given him.

Captain Nearly at the same time, an affair happened, in which Manning the people of Milford exhibited a noble spirit of zeal and -- enterprise.. One captain Manning, master of a ten gun ship, had been apprehended for an unlawful trade with the Dutch, at the Manhadoes. While the affair was upon trial before the court at New-Haven, his men ran off with the ship from Milford harbour. The people completely armed and manned a vessel, with so much dispatch,. that they pressed hard upon the ship before she could reach the Dutch island. The men, perceiving they must be taken. unless they immediately abandoned the ship), made their escape in their boat. The ship, thus left adrift, was recovered, and brought into Milford harbour, and, with all her goods, condemned as a lawful prize. of At the general electioty Mr. Hopkins, though in Eng

Jiecti°i8th land' was cnosen governor. Mr. Wells was appointed ay . deputy governor. Mr. Webster, Mr. Mason, Mr. Winthrop, Mr. Cullick, Mr. Wolcott, Mr. Clark, Mr. Wyllys, son of George Wyllys, and Mr. John Talcott, were elected magistrates. Mr. Cullick was secretary, and Mr. Talcott treasurer.

* By the records of New-Haven, it appears, that be was shipping hi» family and effects on the 26th of April.

At this court, the freemen passed the fallowing resolu- Book I. 4ion, as an addition to the fundamentals of their constitii- s^-v^«/ tion :—" That the major part of the magistrates, in the ab- 1654. sence of the governor and deputy governor, shall have Addition power to call a general court; and that any general court,to lhe fun~ being legally cdled and met, the major part of the magis- " "a trates and deputies then met, in the absence of the goyerHor and deputy governor, shall have power to choose unto, and from among themselves, a moderator, which being done, they shall be deemed as legal a general court, as if the governor, or deputy governor were present."

At the election in New-Haven, the only alteration in public officers, was lhe addition of Mr. Samuel Eaton, of , New-Haven, to the magistrates, and the choice of Mr. Ben- Haven, jamin Fenn, in the room ofcaptain John Astwood.

About the same time, in answer to the petitions of Connecticut and New-Haven, major Sedgwick and captain Leveret arrived at Boston, with a fleet of three or four ships, and a small number of land forces, sent by Oliver Cromwell, lord protector, for the reduction of the Dutch. On the 8th of June, governor Eaton received a letter from his highness, certifying, that he had sent ships ami ammunition for the assistance of the colonies. With this came a letter from major Sedgwick and captain Leveret, requesting, that commissioners might be sent immediately from each of the governments, to consult with them on the ob- '

jects of the designed expedition. Mr. William Leet and Mr. Jordan were appointed commissioners for i'une 9*New-Haven. They were authorised to engage, in behalf of that jurisdiction, to furnish all the men and provisions which it could spare. An embargo was laid on all provisions, and every measure adopted, that the utmost assistance might be given, in the enterprise. Such was the zeal of the general court, that they instructed their commissioners to engage the assistance of that,colony, though no other, except Connecticut, should join with them.

On the 13th of June, the general court of Connecticut June 13th. convened, at Hartford, and appointed major John Mason and Mr. Cullick commissioners. They were directed to proceed with the utmost dispatch to Boston ; and, in behalf of Connecticut, to engage any number of men, not ex ceeding two hundred, but rather than the expedition should fail, four or five hundred.

The general court of Massachusetts was convoked on the 9th of June, but did not agree to raise any men themselves. They granted liberty, nevertheless, for major Sedgwick and captain Leveret to raise five hundred volBook I. unteers. The commissioners finally agreed upon 800 men, v*-\/-^/ 35 sufficient for the enterprise. The ships were to furnish 1654. two hundred soldiers; three hundred volunteers were to be raised in Massachusetts ; two hundred men were to be sent from Connecticut; and a hundred and thirty piree from New-Haven. But while preparations were making with vigor and dispatch, the news of peace, between England and Holland, prevented all further proceedings relative to the aflajr.

The total defeat of the Dutch fleet, the loss of admiral Tromp and a great number of their merchantmen, made the Dutch in earnest for peace ; and it was expeditiously concluded, on the 5th of April. The news of it arrived in America, almost as soon as the fleet. The commander in chief therefore employed his forces, with the Massachusetts volunteers, in dispossessing the French from Penobscot, St. John's, and the adjacent coast. This was doubtless one object of the expedition, and not undertaken without orders from the protector.

<Fransae- . It was not expected, that there would have been any *ect*ii,"ui mcci'ng of lne commissioners this year. Massachusetts confede- nad violated the articles of union, and the colonies had proratiba. tested against them, as breakers of the most solemn confederation. The general court of Massachusetts had also represented, to the other colonies, that the articles needed explanation and emendation, that they might be consistent with the rights of the several general courts. Indeed, it had proposed a meeting of the commissioners for that purpose. The other colonies viewed the articles as perfectly intejligible, and consistent with the rights of the confederates. They therefore rejected the motion. The general court of New-Haven had voted, that there was no occasion for appointing commissioners that year.

But on the 5th of July, governor Eaton received a letter from the general court of the Massachusetss, waving an answer to the letter jointly written from the general courts of Connecticut and New-Haven, and lamely excusing their non-compliance with the resolution of the commissioners, on the account of their not being able to apprehend the justice of the war with the Dutch and Ninigrate. They complained of the other colonies, for treating them as violators of the confederacy. They professed themselves to be passionately desirous of its continuance, according to the genuine construction of the articles. They gave information, that they had chosen commissioners, and had determined to empower them as had been usual. The general court, at New-Haven, replied, that they an<5 (he other colonies had justly charged them with a violation Book I. of their covenant, and urged, that, according to their owiis^-v-%^ interpretation of the articles, they stood responsible to them 1654. for the infraction ; and that, according to the eleventh article of the confederation, they were to be treated by them according to the magnitude of their fault. They observed, that her sisti-r colonies had not only condemned their conduct, but had sent messengers and taken proper pains. to inform them, and adjust the differwRe between them ; but that they had treated them in a v^ry disagreeable manner, and their endeavours had been to no good purpose. They declared, nevertheless, that, if the combination might be again firmly settled, according to the original intention and grammatical sense of the articles, they would, without further satisfaction, forgetting what was past, cheerfully renew their covenant, and send their commissioners to meet, at any time and place, for that end. This was subscribed by the secretary, and sent to Hartford, to be subscribed by the general court of Connecticut; and to be transmitted, in the name of each of the colonies, to the Massachusetts. This, it seems, was harmoniously done.

As the general court of the Massachusetts would not join Nini-crafe with her confederates, against Ninigrate, he prosecuted the ">nt'nilcl war against the Long-Island Indians, and it was supposed, oslie> that his design was to destroy, both those Indians and the Moheagans. For this purpose he had hired the Mohawks, Pocomtocks, and Wampanoags, afterwards called Philip's Indians, to assist himr By a collection of such numbers of Indians, from the westward, northward, and eastward, the general peace of the country would have been greatly endangered, and the Long-Island Indians, who had put themselves under the protection of the English, exposed to a total extirpation. They had been obliged, not only to fortify themselves, and to use every precaution for their own defence, but to suffer the loss of many of their people, who had been already either slain or captivated.

The deputy governor, and council, of Connecticut, judg- Connects. ed it an affair of such importance, to defend their allies,cut and and provide for their own safety, that they determined to ftenws"e^}" dispatch major Mason, with ammunition, and a number of aid to men, to the assistance of the Indians upon the Island. MontauThe deputy governor and Mr. Clark acquainted governor ^ ln~ Eaton with their views and determination, and desired that the colony of New-Haven would send lieutenant Seely, with a detachment of men, and with supplies of ammunition, to second their design. The court of New-Haven Complied with the desire of Connecticut. Lieutenant See

Book I. Iy had orders to join major Mason at Saybrook. They

v^^-v-x^ Were instructed to acquaint the Montauket Indians, that 1654. tne colonies made them that present of ammunition, wholly for their own defence, and not to enable them to injure Ninigrate, or any other Indians, unless they should make an attack upon them: and that, while they continued faithful to the English, they would be their friends. It was ordered that, if Ninigrate should invade the Long-Island Indians, the English officers should use their endeavours to persuade them to peace, and to refer their differences to the decision of the commissioners. But if he would fight, they were commanded to defend themselves, and the Indians in alliance with the colonies, in the best manner they could.*

Couimis- In September, the commissioners convened at Hartford.

roe"t"scp- They consisted of the following gentlemen, Mr. Simon

(ember 7. Bradstreet, Major Denison, Mr. Thomas Prince, Mr. John Brown, major Mason, Mr. John Webster, governor Eaton, and Mr. Francis Newman. Governor Eaton was chosen

Send met- president. They immediately dispatched messengers tq Ninigrate, demanding his appearance at Hartford, and the payment of the tribute so long due for the Pequots under him. On the 18th, Mr. Jonathan Gilbert returned, and made a report of Ninigrate's answer, in the words following:

"Concerning the Long-Island Indians, he answered,

swor. wherefore should he acquaint the commissioners, as the Long-Island Indians began with him, and had slain a sachem's son, and sixty of his men; and therefore he will not make peace with the Long-Islanders; but doth desire that the English will let him alone; and that the commissioners would not request him to go to Hartford; for he hath done no hurt. What should he do there ? If our governor's son were slain, and several other men, would you ask counsel of another nation, how and when to right yourselves ? And added, that he would neither go nor send to Hartford. Concerning the upland Indians,! his answer was, that they were his friends, and came to help him against the Long-Islanders, who had killed several of his men. Wherefore should he acquaint the commissioners of it ? He did but right his own quarrel, which the Long-Islanders began with him," With respect to the tribute due for the Pequots, though he had never paid it, yet. he pretended there was none due.

The commissioners, considering his perfidious conduct, the last year, his present answer, and that lenity and for- Book I. bearance had been an encouragement of his insolence and ^x~v-**> barbarity, ordered forty horsemen, and two hundred and 1654. seventy infantry to be raised, to chastise his haughtiness. CommisThe Massachusetts were to raise the forty horsemen, and Sione.r* dea hundred and fifty-three footmen ; Connecticut forty-five, up^'wlr and New-Haven thirty-one. Orders were given, that with Nioitwenty horse, from Massachusetts, twenty-four men from 8rateConnecticut, and sixteen from New-Haven, should be immediately dispatched into the Nehantkk country. The commissioners nominated major Gibbons, major Denison, or captain Atherton, to the chief command; leaving it, in complaisance, to the general court of Massachusetts, to appoint which of the three should be most agreeable to them. But rejecting these, who were men of known spirit and enterprise, they appointed major Willard. The commissioners instructed him to proceed with such troops, as Masaashould be found at the place of general rendezvous, by the chusetts 13th of October, directly to Ninigrate's quarters, and demand of him the Pequots, who had been put tinder him, defeat and the tribute which was due. If Ninigrate should not their dedeliver them, and pay the tribute, he was required to take sisnthem by force. He was instructed to demand of Ninigrate, a cessation from all further hostilities against the Long-Islanders. If he would not comply with these demands, he had express orders to subdue him. If a greater number of men should be found necessary, hk instructions were to send for such a number, as he should judge sufficient to carry the expedition into effect. The place of rendezvous was at Thomas Stanton's, in the Narraganset country. When he arrived at the place appointed, he found that Ninigrate had fled into a swamp, at fourteen or fifteen miles distance from the army. He had left his country, corn, nnd wigwams, without defence, and they might have been laid waste, without loss or danger. Nevertheless, he returned, without ever advancing from his head quarters, or doing the enemy the least damage.

Records of Connecticut and New-Haven.

tThus he called the Pocomtocks fad Wampanoagi.

About a hundred Pequots took this opportunity to renounce the government of Ninigrate, and come off with ihe army. They put themselves under the protection and government of the English.

The commander pleaded, in excuse, that his instructions commi?werc equivocal, ana the season for marching unfavorable. *k,ners di*The commissioners, however, were entirely unsatisfied, satisfied, They observed to him, " That, while the army was in the Narraganset country, Ninigrate had his mouth in the dust; and that he would have submitted to any reasonable terms,

Book I. which might have been imposed upon him." They charv^-v-x^ ged the major with neglecting an opportunity of humbling 1655. his pride; and they referred it to his consideration, what Charge satisfaction ought to be expected from him, and those of major wil- fas councii who advised and joined with him in his mea

tard with ~ J

nepioctof sures.*

inty. Governor Hutchinson has observed, that major Willard

was a Massachusetts man, and although that colony had so far complied with the rest, as to join in sending out the forces, yet they were still desirous of avoiding an open war. This was the second time of their preventing a general war, contrary to the minds of six of the commissioners of the other colonies.t

The general court of Massachusetts had re<feded from their explanation of the articles of confederation, and the commissioners had a most amicable meeting. They were unanimous in the war against Ninigrate, and yet the Massachusetts, by private intrigue, defeated their designs. In which instance they acted the most honorable and consistent part, when, by an open infraction of the articles of union, they prevented a war, or when they supplanted their brethren, by secret treachery, the impartial world will judge.

The whole number of rateable persons, in the colony of Connecticut this year, was 775, and the grand list was 79,073 pounds.J

Upon the election at Hartford, Thomas Wells, Esq'r. was chosen governor, and Mr. John Webster, deputy-gov

ElccUon, ernor. The magistrates elected were, Mr. Hopkins, Mr.

May nth. Mason, Mr. Winthrop, Mr. Wolcott, Mr. Cullick, Mr. Clark, Mr. Wyllys, Mr. Talcott, Mr. JohnCosmore, and Mr. Thomas Tapping. Mr. Cullick was secretary, and Mr. Talcott treasurer.

At the general election^in New-Haven, this year, there was no alteration of their officers.

* Records of the united colonies.

t Hutchinson, vol. i. p. 186, 187.

$ By the number of persons, and the amount of the lists in each towa, an idea may be formed of their proportion to each other.

Towns. Persons. Estatet.

JInrtibrd, 177 £ 10,609

Windsor, 165 . 15.833

Weathersfield, 113 12,602

Fairfietd, 84 8,634

Say brook, 53 * 4,437

Stratford, 72 7,958

Fannington, 46 b,6\9

Middjetown, 31 $,174

>.urw;ilJc, 24 2,309

TT3 »,OTJ

The Pequots persevering, in their petitions, to be taken Book I. under the protection and government of the English, the -~*~v^1 commissioners, this year, granted their request. Places 1655. of residence were afterwards appointed for them, by the ^-he Pe~ general court of Connecticut, about Pawcatuck and Mis- Sender tic rivers. They were allowed to hunt on the lands west the govof the latter. They were collected together in these two ernment places, and an Indian governor was appointed over them jwiish in each place. General laws were made for their govern- a ment. Blasphemy, murder, witcheraft, and conspiracy a- Laws for

fainst the colonies, were prohibited upon pain of death.their §ov" abbath-breaking, adultery, and drunkenness, were pro-en"*"" nil tiled under proper penalties. He who stole was required, on conviction, to pay double damages. They were prohibited to make war with other Indians, or to join with them in their wars, unless it were in their own just defence, without the consent of the commissioners of the united colonies. They were obliged to submit to the Indian governors, whom they should appoint over them, and pay them the same tribute which they had stipulated to pay to the English.*

After the return of major Willard and the troops under Ninigrate his command, from the Narraganset country, Ninigrate as- K^^ute" Mimed his former haughtiness, and continued the war a- against the gainst the Indians upon Long-Island. Mr. Thomas James, Long-hlminister of Easthampton, captain Tapping of Southampton, captain Underbill and others, wrote to the commissioners, that both the English and Indians on the Island were in a calamitous and distracted condition ; and in imminent danger, on the account of his constant hostilities. They assured them, that the Indians, upon the Island, could not hold out much longer, but must submit themselves and their country to the Narragansets, unless they should have some speedy assistance. They intreated them to consult some effectual measures to prevent such calamity.

In consequence of this intelligence, they ordered, that a vessel, well armed and manned, should fie in the road be- fence. tween Neanticut and the Island, to watch the motions of Ninigrate ; and, if he should attempt to pass the sound, to stave and destroy his canoes, and to make all the slaughter and destruction upon him, which should be in their power. Captain John Youngs was appointed to command this vessel of observation. He was authorised to draught men from Saybrook and New-London, as emergencies might require. An encouraging message was sent to the * Records of the colonies.

Montauket sachem, acquainting him with the measures the English were taking for his defence. The commissioners sent him a supply of ammunition. Provision was also made, that South and East-Hampton, with all the adjacent towns, should be completely furnished with all articles necessary for war. Orders were given, that if the Indians could not maintain their ground, in any assault, they should flee towards some of the neighbouring towns ; and that, if the enemy should pursue them within two miles of any of the settlements, the inhabitants shoukl immediately repair to their assistance. Intelligence of these resolutions was dispatched to the Narragansets, as weH as the Long-Islanders. All the united colonies were exceedingly offended at the conduct of major Willard, except the Massachusetts-, under whose influence he was supposed to act. The general court at New-Haven, resolved, that he had not followed his instructions, in the expedition against Ninigrate ; but that they were willing to suspend theirjudgment, with respect to the measures to be taken with him, until they should be certified of the opinions of the other confederates. Whatever their opinions or wishes were, major Willard was safe under the wing of fhe Massachusetts; and Connecticut and New-Haven had principally to bear the unhappy consequences of his perfitHous conduct. Thej were obliged, the next year, at their own expense, to continue the commission of captain Youngs to cruise between the main and Long-bland, to prevent the designs of Ninpgrate. They also found it necessary to furnish- both men and provisions, for the defence of the Islanders*

Governor Eaton had been desired to perfect a code of laws for the colony of New-Haven. For his assistance in the compilation, he was requested, by (he general court, to consult the Rev. Mr. Cotton's discourse on civil government in a new plantation, and the larws of Massachusetts. Having accomplished the work, and the laws having been examined and approved, by the elders of the jurisdiction-, they were presented to the general court. They ordered, that 500 copies should be printed. The copy was sent to England, that the impression might be made under the inspection of governor Hopkins. He procured the printing of the laws, at his own expense, and sent them the number proposed, with some other valuable books, as a present. The laws were distributed to the several towns in the jurisdiction.

This year, died Henry Wolcott, Esq'r. in the 78th year of hi* age. He was the owner of a good estate in Somersetshire, in England. His youth, it is said, wHs spent m gaiety and country pastimes; but afterwards, under the Book I. instructions of Mr. Edward Elton, his mind was entirely v^-\/"v> changed, and turned to the sincere love and practice of 1655. religion. As the puritans were then treated with great se- Hischarr verity, he sold about 8,000 pounds worth of estate in Eng-acter, land, and prepared for a removal into America. He came into New-England with Mr. Wai-ham, in May, 1630, and settled first at Dorchester, in Massachusetts. In 1636, he removed to Windsor, and-was one of the principal planters of that town. He was chosen into the magistracy in 1643, and continued in it until his death. He left an estate in England, which rented at about sixty pounds a year, which the family, for some time, enjoyed; but it was afterwards sold. After his decease, some one of his descendants was annually chosen into the magistracy, for a term of nearly eighty years, utitrl the year 1754, when governor Wolcott left the chair.*

At the election in Connecticut, Mr. John Webster was chosen governor, and Mr. Wells deputy governor. This was the only alteration in the magistracy.

At New-tlaven, the former governors and magistrates Election at were rechosen. Mr. John Wakeman was appointed treas- ^ew""a" urer. The general court at New-Haven, took great pains Jg"|, ay< to put the colony in a state of defence. Orders were given for the raising pf a troop of sixteen horse, in the five towns May 28th upon the sea coast, with complete arms and furniture. For _ their encouragement, they were exempted from taxation, horse'apand from training with the foot, and were to enjoy all the pointed privileges of troopers in Massachusetts. This was the first troop in any part of Connecticut. It was ordered, that all the common soldiers should be trained to shooting at a mark; that they should be furnished with ammunition for that purpose, at the public expense; and that prizes should be prepared for the best marksmen. The soldiers were directed to play a* cudgels, and at the broad sword, that they might know how to defend themselves and their country.

Manuscripts from Windsor, found in the collection of the Rev. Mr. Prince, at Boston.

The family have kept up the monument of their ancestor, and preserved their dignity to the present time- His Excellency, Oliver Wolcott, Esq'r. one of the sons of the former governor, Roger Wolcott, Esq'r. is the prevent governor of the state. His hrother, the Hon. Erastus Wolcott, Esq'r. was, for some years, one of the magistrates of Connecticut, and, afterwards, one of the judges of the superior court. Oliver Wolcott, Esq'r. one of the sons of the present governor Wolcott, is secretary of the treasury of the United States. Some of the family have been members of the assembly, judges of the superior court, or magistrates, from the first seU ilcment of the colony to this time, during the term of more than a century *»d a half. A. D. 1797.

Book I. The protector, Oliver Cromwell having conquered Ja\-^-vx^ maica, made it a favourite object to remove the people of 1656. New-England to that island. He artfully represented, that they had as clear a call for transporting themselves from New-England to Jamaica, as they had for emigrating from Old England to New, for the advancement of their interests ; as the Lord's people were to be the head, and not the tail. He likewise represented, that it would have a tendency to the destruction of the man of sin. He wrote particularly to New-Haven on the subject, and sent them a copy of his instructions relative to the affair. These he had given to one captain Gookins, whom he had employed in the several plantations, to promote this, his favourite design, lie and major Sedgwick dispatched letters also to New-Haven, on the same business.

Governor Eaton had, some time before this, laid them before the general court. The several plantations in the colony had been made acquainted with their contents, and the deputies had been desired to return their opinion to the court. After a long and serious dehate, the court resolved, " That, though they could not but acknowledge the love, care, and tender respect of his highness, the Lord Protector, to New-England in general, and to this colony in particular, yet, for divers reasons, they cannot conclude . that God calls them to a present remove thither."

The governor was desired to write to the lord protector, acknowledging his great care and love towards the colony. Coramis- The commissioners of the united colonies, this year, sioncn held their meeting at Plymouth. They received a very Septt,4th. plaus'Dle letter from Stuyvesant, the Dutch governor. He wrote with a great show of religion, expressing his joy Letter that God had quenched the bloody war between the Dutch D^teh*'6 an(^ t*ie English, in Europe; and his warm desires, that it governor, might redound to the great advantage of the subjects of the two nations, in these remote parts of the earth. He solicited a nearer union between the Dutch and the united colonies. At the same time, he certified them, tha' he had received a ratification of the agreement made at Hartford, in 1650, under the seal of the High and Mighty States of the United Belgick Provinces; and desired that time and place might be appointed for delivering and interchanging the ratifications.

The governor was so well known to the commissioners, that neither the plausibility of his letter, nor the very christian manner in which it was written, made any deep impressions upon them. They replied, in short, that the peace was matter of joy to them, and they wished the con

tinuance of it in Europe, and in all the plantations abroad. Book I. They gave assurances, that the preservation of it should v^-v^^ be their constant endeavour. Nevertheless, they gave no 1656. intimations that they desired a nearer union, or to ratify the agreement. The Dutch governor had not observed it himself; they considered the Dutch as mere intruders, and were growing daily more able to defend themselves against their encroachments: they were, therefore, determined to do nothing further relative to the affair.

They observed to the governor, that he had made no reparation of the damages he had done the colonies, and that they had not heard that he designed to make any: that they heard he yet laid claim to Oyster bay, and that he had made no proper resignation of Greenwich. They desired him to be explicit on these points.*

The last year, complaints were made to the court atComNew-Haven, that the inhabitants of Greenwich were under P'j"."4 little government, and demeaned themselves in a lawless cjreenmanner. They admitted of drunkenness among themselves, wich. and among the Indians, by reason of which, damages were done to themselves and to the towns in the vicinity, and the public peace was disturbed. They received children and servants, who fled from the correction of their parents and masters, and unlawfully joined persons in wedlock, with other misdemeanors.

Upon this, the general court asserted their right to Greenwich, and ordered the inhabitants to submit to their jurisdiction. But they continued much in the same state, and sent a letter to the court in May, denying their jurisdiction, and refusing any subjection to the colony, unless they should be compelled to it, by the parliament. The court, therefore, resolved, that, unless they should appear before the court, and make their submission, by the 25th of June, Richard Crab and others, who were the most stubborn among them, should be arrested and punished, The inhaaccording to law. They, therefore, some time after, sub- bitanta jected their persons and estates to the government of New- Jj£"_<* to Haven. Haven.

Uncas, though friendly to the English, appears to have been a proud, mischievous sachem, who, by his haughty carriage and provoking language, was often embroiling the country, and bringing trouble upon himself and the colonies. He made an assault upon the Podunk Indians, ut Hartford. He, or his brother, invaded the Norwootucks. He upbraided the Narragansets of their dead sacbems, and challenged them to fight. Among other in * Records of the united colonies.

Book I. stances of misconduct, he proved treacherous to the Monv^-v-^/ tauket sachem, and joined with Ninigrate, in his perfidi1656. ous practices. By these means, the country was so disquieted, that it was with great difficulty the commissioners maintained the general peace. They interposed, and obliged Uncas to make restitution to the Indians, whom he had injured. They prohibited his making war, without their consent and advice. They endeavored to quiet and conciliate the natives; but they found them, whether they were friends or foes, to be a troublesome people. After all their precautions, the country was still more alarmed the next year.

In April, the Indians committed a horrid murder at Far1657. mington, and besides Mesapano, who was the principal actor, the Norwootuck and Pocomtock Indians were supposed to be accomplices.

The Montaukets, after all the trouble and expense, which the English had been at for their defence, became tumultuous, and did great damage to the inhabitants of Southampton.

April 9th. The general court at Hartford, gave orders that the Indians, who perpetrated the murder at Farmington, should be apprehended, and that the sachems of the Pocomtock and Norwootuck Indians should deliver up the delinquents among them,

Major Mason was ordered, with a detachment, to LongIsland, to bring the Indians there to a just and peaceable conduct, and adjust affairs between them and the English.*

At the general election in Connecticut, 1657, Mr. John

M, oi.t Winthrop was elected governor, and Mr. Thomas Wells ay itst. .. " T.t i i /

deputy-governor. Mr. Webster was chosen the first magistrate. The other officers were the same who had been May 27th. appointed the last year. The freemen, at the election in New-Haven, made no alteration in their magistrates.

The general court at Hartford, this year, was uncommonly thin, consisting of twenty-two members only. The danger of the plantations, and of particular families, from the hostile state of the Indians, appears to have been the reason. The Montaukets, Moheagans, Narragansets, and Wars Norwootucks, engaged in implacable wars with each other.

amon^the rri, i i i. A L r- i- v. i

Indians. * nev would pursue one another into the hnghsh plantations, and even into their houses, and kill each other in the presence of the families, to their great alarm and astonishment. Uncas was so pressed by the Narragansets, that Connecticut was obliged to send men to his fortress, to assist him in defending himself against them. The Naj* Records of Connecticut.

ragansets, in several instances, threatened and plundered Book I. the inhabitants of Connecticut. . \**-v^~/

Therefore, when the commissioners met, in September, 1657., they sent messengers to them, demanding that they should St,_t- ^d. cease from war, until their grievances, and the grounds of their contentions, should be heard. They assured them, that they would hear and determine impartially, without favoring any of the parties. They represented to them the covenants which they had made with the English, and the entire inconsistency of their conduct, with those engagements. They also prohibited all fighting in the English plantations.

This year, the colony of New-Haven, and indeed all the New-England colonies, sustained a heavy loss in the death c|1^*tac[Len,. of governor Eaton.* He was a minister's son, born atofTheophStony Stratford, in Oxfordshire ; was educated an East In-ilus Eaton, dia merchant, and was sometime deputy-governor of the Esqcompany, trading to the East Indies. For several years, he was agent for the king of England at the court of Denmark. After his return, he was a merchant of great business and respectability, in the city of London.

Upon the Laudean persecution, he left his native country, and came into New-England with Mr. Davenport, his minister, in 1637. He was one of the original patentees of the Massachusetts, and soon after his arrival was cho- sen one of the magistrates of that colony. Upon the set- . tlement of New-Haven, he was chosen governor of the colony, and was annually re-elected until his death. He is represented as comely and personable, and is said to have appeared upon the bench with a dignity and majesty, * \vhich admit of no description. The impartiality with which he administered justice, was most exemplary, and his authority was not to be opposed. The wisdom, gravity, and integrity of his administration, were viewed with universal admiration. In honor to his memory, and the good services which he had rendered the colony, his funeral charges were borne, and a handsome monument erected at the public cxpense.t

* He died January 7th, 1657, in the 67th year of his age.

t His private was not lees amiable thaa Ms public character. In convenation, he was affable, courteous, and generally pleasant; but always grave and cautious. He was pious and strictly moral. His meekness, patience, and fortitude, were singular.

Id the conduct nf In- family, he was strict, prudent, and happy. Though it sometimes consisted of not less Ui»n thirty persons, yet they were under the most perfect order and government. They were all assembled morning and evening, and the governor, after reading the scriptures, and making devout and useful observations upon I lino, prayed with great reverence and pertinency. On the sabbath, an'd other days of public devotion, ha

Book I. Nearly at the same time, died his son-in-law, Edward \^-v^-^/ Hopkins, Esquire, for a number of years governor of Con1657. necticut. He conducted the affairs of government with Character great wisdom and integrity, and was universally beloved, of gover- pie was a gentleman of exemplary piety, righteousness, and nor Hop- , . °. .. ,. .. ' T j - L r it <

kins. chanty. In his family and secret devotions, he followed

the example of governor Eaton. His charity was great and extensive. Besides the relief he dispensed to the poor, with his own hands, he gave considerable sums of money to others, to be disposed of to charitable purposes. When he went into England, on the occasion of his brother's death, who had been warden of the English fleet, he designed to return again to his family and friends, in NewEngland ; but he was very soon particularly noticed, and made first warden of the fleet, in the room of his brother. He was then chosen commissioner of the admiralty and navy; and finally member of parliament. These unexpected preferments altered his designs, and determined him to send over for his family, and to spend the remainder of his days in his native country. He had been a consumptive man, attended with a cough, and spitting of blood, for more than thirty years. His constitution was now entirely wasted, and he died in the 58th year of his age.

His dona- His last will was highly expressive of that public spirit **onf* and charity, which had so distinguished him in life. His whole estate, in New-England, was given away to charitable purposes. He manifested his peculiar friendship to the family of Mr. Hooker, his pastor, at Hartford, by giving his relict, Mrs. Hooker, all the.debts due from the family, to him ; by giving to Mrs. Wilson, of Boston, Mr. Hooker's eldest daughter, his farm at Farmington, with all the houses, out-houses, and buildings upon it; and by legacies to several others of his descendants. All the remainder of his estate, in New-England, he bequeathed to his " father, Theophilus Eaton, Esquire, master John Davenport, master John Cullick, and master William Goodwin, in full asspent an hour or two with his family, in instructing them in the duties of faith and practice; and in recommending to them the reading and study of the scriptures, secret derotion, the sanctification of the sabbath, and a devout and constant attendance on all divine institutions. On these days tie sang praises, as well as prayed with his family. He was greatly beloved by his domestics, as well as by the commonwealth. Indeed, there was no man, among the first planters of New-England, who had a more trcneral acquaintance with public business, or who sustained a fairer character. His monument is kept up to the present time. Upon it are these expressive lines:

"Raton, to meek, so wise, so fam'd, so just,

The Phtenix of our world here hides his dust:

This name forget, New-England never must.

surance of their trust and faithfulness, in disposing of it ac- Book J. cording to the true intent and purpose of him, the said Ed- -*-.-»* ward Hopkins, which was to give some encouragement, in 1657. those foreign plantations, for the breeding up of hopeful youths, in a way of learning, both at the grammar school and college, for the public service of the country, in future times." He also made a donation of five hundred pounds more, out of his estate in England, to the said trustees, in further prosecution of the same public ends, " for the upholding and promoting the kingdom of the Lord Jesus Christ, in those parts of the earth." This last donation was considered as made to Harvard college, and, by virtue of a decree in chancery, was paid in 1710. The interest eiven in New-England, was estimated at about 1,0001. sterling ; and was appropriated to the support of the grammar schools in New-Haven, Hartford, and Hadley. The money originally belonged to New-Haven and Hartford; but as a considerable number of the people of Hartford afterwards removed to Hadley, and were principal settlers of that town, they received their proportion of the donation.

. At a general court in Hartford, March llth, 1658, a 1658. troop of thirty horsemen was established in Connecticut, first troop and Richard Lord was appointed captain. This was the 1t°c^.onDec" first in the colony.

This year there was a very considerable alteration with Election at respect to governors and the council, .both in Connecticut Sartf|Id> and New-Haven. At the election in Connecticut, Thorn- ay " as Wells, Esquire, was elected governor, and John Winthrop, Esquire, deputy governor. To the magistrates last year, who were again re-chosen, there was an addition of Mr. Matthew Allen, Mr. Phelps, Mr. John Wells, Mr. Treat, Mr. Baker, Mr. Mulford, and Mr. Alexander Knowles. There appears to have been sixteen magistrates, and twenty-six deputies; in the whole, forty-two members.

On the election at New-Haven, Mr. Francis Newman was chosen governor, and William Leet, deputy governor.* Mr. Jasper Crane was added to the magistrates, and Mr. William Gibbard was appointed secretary.

This year a considerable settlement was made between PawcaMistic and Pawcatuck rivers. This tract was called Pe- tuck>afquot, and originally belonged to New-London. The first tcrward»

* Mr. Stephen Goodyear, who had been deputy governor, with governor Eaton, through almost bin whole admiaistration, died this year, in London, and was either there, ' or on his passage, at this election. He appears to bare been a worthy man, and left a retpecUble family.

man who settled upon this tract, was William Cheesebrough, from Rehoboth, in 1649. A complaint was exhibited against him for carrying on an illicit trade with the Indians, for repairing their arms, and endangering the public safety. The general court of Connecticut declared*, that they had a clear title to those lands, and summoned him before them. They reprimanded him for settling upon them without their approbation ; for withdrawing himself from Christian society and ordinances; and for unlawfully trading with and assisting the Indians. He confessed his faults; but pleaded, in excuse, that he had been encouraged by Mr. Winthrop, who claimed a right at Pawcatuck. He gave bonds for his good conduct, and was allowed to continue upon the land. The court promised him, that if he would procure a sufficient number of planters, they would give them all proper encouragement, in making a permanent settlement. About ten or twelve families, this year, made settlements in that quarter; and, finding that there was a controversy between Connecticut and the Massachusetts, with respect both to title and jurisdiction, they, on the 30th of June, entered into a voluntary contract to govern themselves, and conduct their affairs in peace, until it should be determined to which colony they should submit. The principal planters were George Denison, Thomas Stanton, Thomas Shaw, William, Elisha, and Samuel Cheesebrough, and Moses and Walter PalmerThese, with some gathers, were signers of the voluntary compact.

At the meeting of (he commissioners, the Massachusetts claimed that tract of country, by virtue of the assistance which they afforded Connecticut in the conquest of the Pequots. The commissioners resolved, " That the determination did arise only from the several rights of conquest, which were not greatly different; yet that being tender of any inconvenience which might arise to those who were already possessed, either by commission from Massachusetts or Connecticut, in any part thereof, should they bo put off their improvements; also, upon inquiry, finding, that the Pequot country, which extended from Nehantick to Wekapaug, about ten miles eastward from Mistic river, may conveniently accommodate two plantations, did, respecting things as they then stood, conclude, that Mistic river be the bounds between them, as to propriety and jurisdiction, so far as conquest may give title. Always provided, that such as are already accommodated, by commission of either of the said governments, or have granu Of any tracts of fond, on either side of the Mystic river, be not molested in any of their possessions or rights, by any Book I. other grants." " v^~^~^/

Upon the petition of the planters, the general court of 1650. the Massachusetts made them a grant of eight miles from Oct. isih. the mouth of Mystic river towards Wekapaug, and eight miles northward into the country, and named the plantation Southerton. It continued under the government of Massachusetts until after Connecticut obtained a royal charter.

This was a year of great sickness and mortality in Connecticut, and in New-England in general. Religious controversies, at the same time, ran high, and gave great trouble to church and commonwealth. The Indians continued their wars with implacable animosity. The cotamissioners employed all their wisdom and influence to make peace; but they could not reconcile those bloodthirsty barbarians. The crops were light, and it was a year of fear, perplexity, and sorrow.*

John Winthrop, Esq'r. was chosen governor of Con- Election at necticut for the year 1659, and Thomas Wells, Esq'r. de- S811^' puty governor. Captain Tapping and Mr. Robert Bond 1659. were elected magistrates, in the room of Mr. Kaowles and Mr. Mulford.

At the election in New-Haven, the same governor and council were rechqsen. Indeed, little alteration was made with respect to them, until the union of that colony with Connecticut.

At the October session, Cromwell bay, or Setauket, on Oct. 6ih. Long-Island, at the desire of the inhabitants, was admitted as a member of the jurisdiction of Connecticut.

In 1660, Mr. John Winthrop was rechoseu governor. Election, This was the first time that any governor had been elected Mar i"h, to that office more than once in two years. Major Mason 1660. was advanced to the place of deputy governor. The magistrates were Mr. Henry Clark, Mr. Wyllys, Mr. Phelps, Mr. Allen, Mr. Treat, Mr. Gould, Mr. Tapping, Mr. Ogden, Mr. Bond, Mr. Daniel Clark, and Mr. Talcott. Mr. Daniel Clark was secretary, and Mr. Talcott treasurer.

Mr. Webster and Mr. Wells appear now to be no more. They had been annually chosen into the magistracy, for about twenty years, and both had the honour of the chief seat of government.t

* In a proclamation far a general fast, the intemperate season, thin harvest, sore visitation by sickness, and the sad, prolonged difference* in the churches, are particularized as matters of humiliation.

t Four or five governors of Connecticut, governor Haynes, governor Wyllys, governors Wells and Webster, lie buried at Hartford, without a monument. William Leet,^Esq. ^governor of New-Haven and Connecticut, also lies interred there, in the same obscure manner. Considering their many and important public services, this is remarkable; t.ut their virtues have embalmed their names, and will render them to the latest posterity, ., ... .

. *

Book I. At this election, the freemen, having found by long ex\^-v-x^ perience, that the clause in the third fundamental article, 1660. incapacitating any person to be choson governor more than once in two years, was prejudicial, rather than" advantageous to the colony, resolved, that there should be liberty for the annual choice of the same person governor, or of any other whom they should judge best qualified to serve the commonwealth.

Bistres* of During the wars between Uncas and the Narragansets, Uncm. they besieged his fort, near the bank of the Thames, until his provisions were nearly exhausted, and he found that he, and his men, must soon perish, by famine or sword, unless he could obtain speedy relief. In this crisis, he found means of communicating his danger to the scouts, who had been sent out from Saybrook fort. By his messengers, he represented the great danger the English, in those parts, would be in immediately, if they should suffer the MoheaJ gans to be destroyed.

Itelipved Upon this intelligence, one Thomas Leffingwell, an enby Thnm- sign at Saybrook, an enterprising, bold man, loaded a caM|Leffiog- noe wjtn j^^ corn, antl pease, and, under cover of the night, paddled from Saybrook into the Thames, and had the address to get the whole into the fort. The enemy soon perceiving that Uncas was relieved, raised the siege. For this service, Uncas gave said Leffingwell a deed of a great part, if not of the whole town of Norwich. In June, 1659, Uncas, with his two sons, Owaneco and Attawanhood, by a more formal and authentic deed, made over unto said Leffingwell, John Mason, Esq- the Rev. James Fitch, and others, consisting of thirty-five proprietors, the whole township of Norwich, which is about nine miles square. The company, at this time, gave Uncas and his sons about seventy pounds, as a further compensation for so large and fine a tract.

Norwich~, Preparations were immediately made for its settlement ^ «ettkd. and, tnis spring, the Rev. James Fitch, with the principal part of his church and congregation, removed from Saybrook, and planted the town of Norwich. Three or four planters joined them from New-London, and two or three from the towns of Plymouth and Marshfield, in Massachusetts. In 1663, the general assembly ordered that the deed should be recorded. The limits were afterwards ascertained, and the town received a patent of the whole.

The Moheagans were a great defence, and of essential Book I. service to the town for many years. They kept out their Vx-n^-*»/ scouts and spies, and so constantly watched their enemies, 1660. that they gave the earliest notice of their approach, and were a continual defence against them. For this purpose, in times of danger, they often moved and pitched their wigwams near the town, and were a great terror to the enemy. Once the hostile Indians came near to the town, upon the sabbath, with a design to make a descent upon it; but, viewing it from an eminence, and seeing the Moheagan huts, they were intimidated, and went off without doing the least damage.*

This year, the town of Huntington, upon Long-Island, Huntingwas received as a member of the Connecticut jurisdiction. 4°n receir

This general court ordered, that grand jurors should be e . appointed in every town, to make presentment of all breach- Grand jues of law, in their respective towns. The law required rors apthat the presentments should be made to the particular Pointedcourt, -in May and October.

The accounts with the heirs of George Fen wick, Esq. had not been closed, nor discharges given, relative to the purchase made of the fort at Saybrook, and the old patent of Connecticut. This was an occasion of great uneasiness among the people. The three towns of Hartford, Windsor, and Weathersfield, presented petitions to the general court, praying that the accounts might be adjusted, and the colony discharged. In consequence of these, a large committee was appointed to make a complete settlement with the said heirs. They having prepared the accounts for a final adjustment, the general court, at their session in October, authorised them, in their behalf, to perfect and confirm the; writings. The governor was authorised, in their name, to affix the public seal of the colony to those which were to be delivered to captain Cullick, and Elizabeth, his wife, heirs of the said George Fenwick, Esq. and to receive of them the writings, to be delivered to the court, in favour of the colony.

Accordingly, on the 7th of October, the colony dischar- Scttlcged Mr. John Cullick, and Elizabeth, his wife, their heirs, TMen.| TM^ &.c.; and the said John, and Elizabeth, his wife, gave an °*1^*!TM ample discharge to the colony of Connecticut, from all sums Fenwick, of money due to the said Fenwick, his heirs or assigns, by Oct,7tbvirtue of the agreements made with Mr. Fenwick, or purchase of the river's mouth.t

* Manuscripts from Nsrwich, and Records of Connecticut.

t Mr. Cullick, who, for several years, bad been one of the maeistratr? of Connecticut, and secretary of the colony, had now removed his r*>ideuce to Boston. -" "

Book I. Thus, after the term of sixteen years, from the first, and

v^-v-x^ fourteen from the second agreement with Mr. Fenwick, the

1660. colony completed a settlement respecting the fort and lands

holden by him; and became legally possessed of the tract

conveyed to the lords and gentlemen severally named in

the patent.

600 pounds Upon a final adjustment of the accounts, it appeared, colony!110 that Mr- Cullick and the heirs of Mr. Fenwick were indebted 500 pounds sterling to the colony, which had been paid them, more than what was due according to the original agreements with Mr. Fenwick.

John Mason, Esq. now deputy governor, had some time since been authorised, in behalf of the colony, to purchase of Uncas all the lands, which he had reserved for himself and the Moheagans, in the deed of 1640, under the name of planting grounds* Having effected the purchase, he made a surrender of the lands, in the presence of the general court. The following is a minute of the transaction.

" Hartford, session of the general court, March 14, 1660.*

March 14, " The jurisdiction power over that land, which Unca* iof Mason and Wawequa have made over to major Mason, is by him resigns the surrendered to this colony. Nevertheless, for the laying Moheagan out of those lands to farms, or plantations, the court doth lands. leave it in the hands of major Mason. It is also ordered and provided, with the consent of major Mason, that Uncas and Wawequa, and their Indians and successors, shall be supplied with sufficient planting ground at all times, as the court sees cause, out of that land. And the major doth reserve to himself a competency to make a farm."

For want of form, and a more legal manner of conveyance, with respect to those lands, originated the memorable Mason case, or controversy, as it was called. It continued about seventy years, and was an occasion of great trouble and expense to the colony. A statement of it will be made in the progress of this history.

* This according to the present mode of elating was March 14, 1661.

CHAPTER XII. 1660.

The general court of Connecticut declare their loyalty and submission to the king ; determine to address his majesty, and apply for charter privileges. A petition to his majesty is prepared, and a letter addressed to lord Say and Seal. Governor Winihrop is appointed the colony1l* agent, to present their petition, and solicit a patent. Regicides condemned. Whallr.y and Goffe arrive at Boston, escape to New-Haven, and are kindly entertained, and kept from their pursuers. New-Haven falls into great trouble and danger on that account. New-Haven excuse themselves ; decline sending an agent ; but join with Massachusetts, in supporting one. The king proclaimed. Governor Winthrop obtains the charter of Connecticut. First governor and council under the charter. Repre<sentation of the constitution it ordains, and the privileges it conveys. Difficulties of the colony of New-Haven. Governor LeePs address. Charter of Connecticut arrives. Proceedings of Connecticut in consequence of the charter. They extend their jurisdiction to all places within the limits of their patent, and challenge New-Haven colony, as under their jurisdiction. Controversy between the two colonies. Settlement of Killingworth. Patent of the duke of York. Colonel Nichols and commissioners arrive, reduce all the Dutch settlements. Their extraordinary powers. Important crisis of Connecticut. The general court make a present to the commissioners. Answer to the propositions from his majesty, and reply to the duke of Hamilton's claim and petition. Boundaries between Connecticut and New-York. Union of Connecticut and New-Haven.

THE colony having purchased the patent, and the gov- March I4. ernment of England having been settled in the king and parliament, the general court determined to make application for a charter under the royal signature. They avowed their allegiance to his majesty, king Charles the _, second; declared that all the inhabitants of this colony were his faithful subjects ; and that it was necessary to petition him for his grace, and the continuance and confirma- [?. ' ion of their rights and privileges. The court resolved, that the 500 pounds due from Mr. Cullick should be appropriated to the prosecution of their address, and applica1 ion to his majesty for a. patent.

Book I. At the session in May, a petition to his majesty was prcO~v-^/sented by the governor, and approved by the general 1661. court. That it might, however, be made as perfect as Prepare a possible., the governor and deputy governor, Mr. Wyllys, petition jvjr> Allen, Mr. Warham, Mr. Stone, Mr. Hooker, Mr. kra c ar~ Whiting, and the secretary, were appointed a committee May 16. for its emendation. They were authorised to methodize and make all such alterations, as they should judge expedient, provided the substance of it were retained. They Were directed to write letters to any noble personages in England, to whom it might be expedient to make application, and to transact whatever might be necessary, respecting the petition and the procurement of a patent. Got. Win- Governor Winthrop was appointed agent to present the po7nfedP" Pet'l'on {o his majesty, and to transact all affairs in Engagent. land, respecting the general welfare of the colony. He had particular instructions from the general court for the management of the business of his agency. He was especially directed to obtain the consent, and take the advice of the nobles and gentlemen, who had been interested in the old patent of Connecticut; and to engage the friendship and influence of all those, who might be active and serviceable, with respect to the interests of the colony. Reprcsen- 'n tne petition to his majesty, it was represented, that the tatiom in greatest part of the colony had been purchased and obtainthcpeti- cc] jjy great and valuable considerations ; that some other tlon' part thereof had been obtained by conquest; and that it had, with great difficulty, at the sole endeavours, expense and charges of themselves and their associates, under whom they claimed, been subdued and improved, and thereby become a considerable enlargement and addition to his majesty's dominions and interests in New-England.* These were pleaded as reasons, with his majesty, to grant the tract and privileges for which the petitioners prayed. Letter to Al the same time, a letter was addressed to lord Say and lord Say Seal, representing the encouragements which their fathers, and Seal. a||£j some of their surviving associates, received from him, to transplant themselves into the inland parts of this vast wilderness, and their assurances of his patronage and faCorn- vor. They also complained, that Mr. George Fenwick, jilamfca- severa| years after he had taken possession of the entrance

caiust M r. -« J . , . . ' i-ii i

i'cnwick. of Connecticut river, determining to return to England, proposed to sell the fort, at Saybrook, with all the buildings and appurtenances there, together with all the lands upon the river, as far eastward as Narraganset bay, with the right of jurisdiction, to the colony. They represented^ * Appendix No. VII.

that this, at first, was strenuously opposed, by many of Book I. the inhabitants, as they imagined his lordship, and the s^^v^ other noble patentees, had very bountiful intentions to- 166K wards them; and that such a procedure would be extreme-, ly contrary to their designs. Nevertheless, that afterwards, as sotnc of those gentlemen, who had the greatest interest in the affections of their lordships, were removed by death ; and as Mr. Fenwick pretended to be the only patentee ; and threatened, that unless the colony would purchase the lands, on his own terms, he would either impose duties upon the people, or sell the premises to the Dutch, they finally agreed with him, and paid him 1,600 pounds for them. They intimated that this was the only way in which the peace and safety of the community could have been preserved. As a farther matter of grievance, they complained, that, besides this great abuse, Mr. Fenwick had given them nothing under his band, to oblige himself or his heirs to fulfil his engagements ; and that they had nothing to secure them, in the enjoyment of their just tights and pivileges, as a distinct commonwealth. They further made complaint of encroachments made upon them, on the north by thp Massachusetts, and by them ancf others towards the Narragansets ; and that they knew not how to support their claims, or ascertain their boundaries, without a patent. They intreat his lordship to consider their circumstances, counsel and assist their agent, and countenance their designs.*

The only alteration which had been made, at the election, this year, in Connecticut, was the choice of Mr. Thurston Rayner into the magistracy ; but at New-Haven the alteration was very considerable.

Francis Newman, Esq. who had succeeded governor Govemo* featon, in the chief seat of government, was now no more; ^*"naa He had been for many years secretary, under the administration of governor Eaton, and was well acquainted with the affairs of the colony. He is represented as a gentleman of piety and unblemished morals, happily imitating his predecessor both in public and private life.

Upon the election, William Leet, Esq. was chosen gov- Election at ernor, and Mr. Matthew Gilbert, deputy governor. Mr. veen"~ Benjamin Fenn, Mr. Robert Treat, Mr. Jasper Crane, Mr. 29th. John Wakeman, and Mr. William Gibbard, were elected magistrates. The spirit of republicanism however was so high, at New-Haven, that several of them would not accept their appointments and take the oaths prescribed. Mr. Wakeman and Mr. Gibbard utterly refused. Mr. * Letter to bis lordthip, No. Mil.

Fenn was hardly prevailed with to accept his office. He
at last took the oath, with this previous explanation, that it
was only with reference to the particular laws of that colo-
ny ; and that if any thing foreign should present, it should .
give no offence if he should decline acting. Mr. James
Bishop was chosen secretary, and Mr. Robert Allen, trea-
surer.

*An affair had happened at New-Haven, a few months before this, which now began to alarm the country, and soon gave great anxiety and trouble to that colony.

Very soon after the restoration, a large number of the judges of kin-g Charles the first, commonly termed regicides, were apprehended and brought upotv their trials, in the Old Baily. Thirty nine were condemned, and ten executed as traitors. Some others, apprehensive of danger, fled out of the kingdom before king Charles II. was proclaimed. Colonels Whalley and Goffe made their escape to New-England. They were brought over by one captain Cooking, and arrived at Boston, in July, 1660. Governor Endicott and gentlemen of character, in Boston and its vicinity, treated them with peculiar respect and kindness. -They were gentlemen of singular abilities, and had moved in an exalted sphere. Whalley had been a lieutenant general, and Gofl'cr a major general, in Cromwell's army. Their manners were elegant, and their appearance grave and dignified, commanding universal respect. They soon went from Boston to Cambridge, where they resided until February. They resorted openly to places of public worship on the Lord's day, and at other times of public devotion. They were universally esteemed, by all men of character, both civif and religious. But no sooner was it known, that the judges had been condemned as traitors, and that these gentlemen were excepted from the act of pardon, than the principal gentlemen in the Massachusetts began to be alarmed. Governor Endicott called a court of magistrates to consult measures for apprehending them. However, their friends were so numerous that a vote could not, at that time, be obtained to arrest them. Some of the court declared that they would stand by them, others advised them to remove out of the colony. .

Finding themselves unsafe at Cambridge, they came, by the assistance of their friends, to Connecticut. They made their route by Hartford,, but went on directly to NewHaven. They arrived about the 27th of March, and made Mr. Davenport's house the place of their residence. They were treated with the same marks of esteem and generous* friendship, at New-Haven, which they had received in the Massachusetts. The more the people became acquainted Book I. with them, the more they esteemed them, not only as men ^-v'^, of great minds, but of unfeigned piety and religion. For 1661. some time, they appeared to apprehend themselves as out of danger, and happily situated among a number of pious and agreeable, friends, But it was not long before the news of the king's proclamation against the regicides arrived, requiring, that wherever they might be found, they should be immediately apprehended. The governor of Massachusetts, in consequence of the royal proclamation, issued his warrant to arrest them. As they were certified, Coto by their friends, of all measures adopted respecting them, Mijtorili they removed to Milford. There they appeared openly in ihe day time, but at njght often returned privately to NewHaven, and were generally secreted at Mr. Davenport's^ until about the last of April.

In the mean time, the governor of Massachusetts received a royal mandate requiring him to apprehend them ; and a more full and circumstantial account of the condemnation and the execution of the ten regicides, and of the disposition of the court towards them, and the republicans and puritans in general, arrived in New-England. This gave a more general and thorough alarm to the whole country. A feigned search had been made in the Massachusetts, in consequence of the former warrant, for the colonels Whalley and Goffe ; but now the governor and magistrates began to view the affair in a more serious point of light; and appear to have been in earnest to secure them. They perceived, that their own personal safety, and the liberties and peace of the country, were concerned in the manner of their conduct towards those unhappy men. They therefore immediately gave a commission to Thomas Keliond Kellond and Thomas Kirk, two zealous young royalists, to and K!rk go through the colonies, as far as the Manhadoes, and make g£TMj'*tJ, a careful and universal search for them. They pursued search the the judges, with engagedness, to Hartford ; and, repairing country, to governor Winthrop, were nobly entertained. He assured them, that the colonels made no stay in Connecticut, but went directly to New-Haven. He gave them a warrant and instructions similar to those which they had received from the governor of Massachusetts, and transacted every thing relative to the affair with dispatch. The next Come to day thry arrived atGuilford, and opened their business toGuilfonldeputy governor Leet. They acquainted him that, according to the intelligence which they had received, the regicides were then at New-Haven. They desired immediate-. Jy tobe furnished with powers, horses, and assistance, to arrest them.

Book I. But here they were very unwelcome messengers. ^-v—w ernor Leet, and the principal gentlemen in Guilford and H561. New-Haven, had nq ill opinion of the judges. If they had Sentiments done wrong in the part they had acted, they viewed it as of govern- an error in judgment, and as the fault of great and good and his men, under peculiar and extraordinary circumstances. council They were touched with compassion and sympathy, and had real scruples of conscience with respect to delivering up such men to death. They viewed them as the excellent in the earth, and were afraid to betray them, lest they should be instrumental in shedding innocent blood. They saw no advantage in putting them to death. They were not zealous therefore to assist in apprehending them. GovTheir eon- ernor Leet said, he had not seen them, in nine weeks, and duct res- that he did not believe they were at New-Haven. He read . some of the papers relative to the affair with an audible '~ voice, The pursuivants observed to him,. that their business required more secrecy, than was consistent with such a reading of their instructions. He delayed furnishing them with horses until the next morning, and utterly declined giving them any powers, until he had consulted with his council, at New-Haven. They complained, that an Indian went off, from Guilford to New-Haven, in the night, and that the governor was so dilatory, the next morning, that a messenger went on to New-Haven, before they could obtain horses for their assistance. The judges were apprised of every transaction respecting them, and they, and their friends, took their measures accordingly. They changed their quarters, from one place to another in the town, as circumstances required ; and had faithful friends to give them information, and to conceal them from their enemies.

On the ISthpf March, the pursuivants came to New-Haven, and governor Leet arrived in town, soon after them, to consult his council. They acquainted him, that, from the information which they had received, they were persuaded, that the judges were yet in the town, and pressed himand the magistrates to give them a warrant and assistance, to arrest them, without any further delay. But after the governor and his council had been together five or six hours, they dispersed, without doing any thing relative to the affair. The governor declared, that they could not. act without calling a general assembly of the freemen." Kellond and Kirk observed to him, that the other gWernorshad not stood upon such niceties; that the loner and justice of his majesty were concerned, and that he would. jjighly resent the concealment and abetting of such traitors and regicides. They demanded whether he, and his coun- Book I. cil, would own and honour his majesty ? The governor s^-v-s^ replied, we do honour his majesty, but have tender con- 1661, sciences, and wish first to know whether he will own us.*

The tradition is, that the pursuivants searched Mr. Davenport's house, and used him very ill. They also searched other houses, where they suspected that the regicides were concealed. The report is, that they went into the house of one Mrs. Eyers, where they actually were; but she conducted the affair with such composure and address, that they imagined the judges had just made their escape from the house, and they went off without making any search. It is said, that once, when the pursuers passed the neck bridge, the judges concealed themselves under it. Several times they narrowly escaped, but never could be taken.

These zealous royalists, not finding the judges in NewHaven, prosecuted their journey to the Dutch settlements, and made interest with Stuyvesant, the Dutch governor, against them. He promised them, that, if the judges should be found within his jurisdiction, he would give them immediate intelligence, and that he would prohibit all ships and vessels from transporting them. Having thus zealously Kellond prosecuted the business of their commission, they returned nnd Kirk to Boston, and reported the reception which they had met JL^,TM'. &° with atGuilford and New-Haven,

Upon this report, a letter was written by secretary Raw- Letter son, in the name of the general court of Massachusetts, to fron> $>* governor Leet and his council, on the subject. It repre- JJaMa°f sented, that many complaints had been exhibited in Eng- chusetts tq land against the colonies, and that they were in great dan- governor ger. It was observed, that one great source of complaint,Leet< was their giving such entertainment to the regicides, and their yiattention to his majesty's warrant for arresting them. This was represented as an affair which hazarded the liberties of all the colonies, and especially those of J^ew-Haven. It was intimated, that the safety of particular persons, no less than that of the colony, was in danger. It was insisted, that the only way to expiate their offence, nnd save themselves harmless, was, without delay, to apprehend the delinquents. Indeed, the court urged, that not only their own safety and welfare, but the essential interests of their neighbours, demanded their indefatigable exertions to exculpate themselves.

Colonels Whalley and Goffe, after the search which had

Report of Kellond and Kirk to governor Endicott; to which they gave oath, in the presence of the governor and his council.

Book I

1661.

Regicides change their quar ten.

They ap

Ear open at New iiven.

bccn made for them at New-Haven, left Mr. Davenport's, and took up their quarters at Mr. William Jones's, son in law to governor Eaton, and, afterwards, deputy governor of New-Haven and Connecticut. There they secreted themselves until the llth of May. Thence they removed to a mill in the environs of the town. For a short time, they made their quarters in the woods, and then fixed them in a cave in the side of a hill, which they named Providence Hill. They had some other places of resort, to which they retired as occasion made it necessary; but this was. generally, the place of their residence until the 19th of August.* When the weather was bad, they lodged, at night, in a neighbouring house. It is not improbable, that, sometimes, when it could be done with safety, they made visits to their friends at New-Haven.

Indeed, to prevent any damage to Mr. Davenport, or the colony, they once, or more, came into the town openly, and offered to deliver up themselves to save their friends. It seems it was fully expected, at that time, that they would have done it voluntarily. But their friends neither desired, nor advised them, by any means, to adopt so dangerous a measure. They hoped to save themselves and the colony harmless, without such a sacrifice. The magistrates" were greatly blamed for not apprehending them, at this time in particular. Secretary Rawson, in a letter of his to governor Leet, writes, " How ill this will be taken, is not difficult to imagine; to be sure not well. Nay, will not all men condemn you as wanting to yourselves ?" The general court of Massachusetts further acquainted governor Leet, that the colonies were criminated for making no application to the king, since his restoration, and for not proclaiming him as their king. The court, in their letter, observed, that it was highly necessary that they should send an agent to answer for them at the court of England.

On the reception of this intelligence, governor Leet convoked the general court, and laid the letters before them. After much debate, it was concluded to address a letter to the general court, exculpating the colony. With respect to the regicides, they declared, that they had neither disowned nor slighted the king nor his authority; and that the apprehending of them was not defeated by any delay of theirs, as they had made their escape before the king's warrant arrived in the colony. They alledged, that the Book I. pursuers neglected their business, to attend upon the gov- v^-v^*^ernorand his council, for which they had no authority. Be- 1661. sides, they pleaded scruples of conscience, and fear of unfaithfulness to the people, who had given them all their power, and to whom they were bound by solemn oath. Further, they insisted, that acting upon the warrant would have been owning a general governor, and dangerous to the liberties of the people. To him they said the warrant was directed, and though other magistrates were mentioned, yet they were considered only as officers under him.

Governor !.!( convenes the general court, Aug. 1st.

New-Haven's cx

* About this time they removed to Milford, where they continued about two years. On the arrival of the kjng's commissioners in New-England, they retired ayain to their cave for a short time, and about the 13th of October, 1064, removed to Hadley. As the late Rev. President Stiles Ii.k. written their history, no notice will be taken of it in this work, further than it is connected with th* affair; of the colony.

With reference to the magistrates not arresting the judges, when they appeared openly in the town, they said, it was owing to a full persuasion that they would certainly surrender themselves,. according to their promise. They affirmed, that they had used all diligence with those who had shown them kindness, to persuade them to deliver them up; that they were ignorant where they were, and that they did not believe that they were in the colony. They promised, that they would exert themselves to arrest and secure them, if an opportunity should present.

They excused themselves for not making an address or application to his majesty, because it was to them a new and unprecedented affair, and they were ignorant of the proper form. Indeed, they said they could not agree in one which might be acceptable. These they avowed to be the reasons of their omission, and not any disloyalty to his majesty. As the form in which the colony of Massachusetts made their submission to the king, had been laid before them, they declared, that it was to their satisfaction, and that, from their hearts, they acknowledged and said the same. They promised full subjection and entire allegiance to his majesty, king Charles II. Upon this submission and declaration, they supplicated for the same immunities and privileges with their sister colonies, and declared their expectations of the full enjoyment of them.

At the same time, they declined the making of any particular address to the king, on account of their inability to procure a proper agent to present it to his majesty. In their great distress, they desired the general court of Massachusetts to represent them to the king as cordially owning and complying with their address, as though it had been said and made by themselves. They expressed their opinion of the necessity of a general agent for New-England, New-Hato supplicate the royal favour, to defeat the designs of their yen un'*e enemies, and to procure for them all acts of indemnity and "'genera!5 grace. They agreed to bear their proportionable part of agent.

i

Book I. the expense. The court immediately sent an agent to Vi^N^w/ Boston, on this business. One great matter of complaint, 1661. against the colonies, had been their not proclaiming the They pro- king. But as he had now been proclaimed in all the other claim the coionjeS, in Jjew-England, the general court at New-Haven gust 2ist." judged it expedient formally to proclaim him there.* Gov. Win- About this time, it seems, governor Winthrop took tbr°P's his passage for England. Upon his arrival, he made England."1 application to lord Say and Seal, and other friends of the colony, for their countenance and assistance.

Lord Say and Seal, appears to have been the only nobleman living, who was one of the original patentees of Connecticut. He held the patent in trust, originally, for the puritanic exiles. He received the address from the colony most favorably, and gave governor Winthrop all the assistance in his power.t The governor was a man of address, and he arrived in England at a happy j.. time for Connecticut. Lord Say and Seal, the great friend

ship ofiord oftne colonyi had been particularly instrumental in the Say and restoration. This had so brought him into the king's faSeal. vori that he had been made lord privy seal. The earl of Manchester, another friend of the puritans, and of the rights of the colonies, was chamberlain of his majesty's household. He was an intimate friend of lord Say and Seal, and had been united with him in defending the colonies, and pleading for their establishment and liberties. Favorable Lord Say and Seal engaged him to give JVf r. Winthrop his circum- utmost assistance. Mr. Winthrop had an extraordinary stancesun-ring, which had been given his grand father by king thVpMi- Charles the first, which he presented to the king. This, it tion was is said, exceedingly pleased his majesty, as it had been presented, once the property of a father most dear to him. Under these circumstances, the petition of Connecticut was presented, and was received with uncommon grace and favor.

* The form was curious. It was expressed in the following words. Form of " Although we have not received any form of proclamation, by order proclama- from his majesty or council of state, for proclaiming his majesty in tion. this colony; yet, the court taking encouragement from what has been

done in the rest of the united colonies, hath thought fit to declare publicly, and proclaim, that we do acknowledge his royal highness, Charles the second, king of Engtand, Scotland, France, and Ireland, to be our sovereign lord and king; and that we do acknowledge ourselves, the- inhabitants of this colony, to be his majesty's toyal and faithful subjects."

t Letter to governor Winthrop, in England, No. IX. Kis lordship ever retained his friendship for the colonies, and not only rendered great services to Connecticut, but to them all, in i indicating them against the complaints made against them, and in conciliating the favor of the king and his court towards them. In a letter of his, to the government of Massachusetts, he says, " I have not been wanting both to the king and council to advance your interest; more I cannot do, but pray the Lord to stand with you and tor you."

Upon the 20th of April, 1662, his majesty granted the Book I. colony his letters patent, conveying the most ample privi- v^rv-^*' leges, under the great seal of England. It confirmed unto 1662. it the whole tract of country, granted by king Charles the Charter first unto the earl of Warwick, and which was, the next 5ran!*dyear, by him consigned unto lord Say and Seal, lord Brook coYvevecl. and others. The patent granted the lands in free and Reason* common socage. The fates, stated and pleaded in the pe- rec°Soil' tition, were recognized in the charter, nearly in the same form of words, as reasons of the royal grant, and of the ample privileges which it conveyed.

It ordained, that John Winthrop, John Mason, Samuel Wyllys, Henry Clarke, Matthew Allen, John Tapping, Nathan Gould, Richard Treat, Richard Lord, Henry Wolcott, John Talcott, Daniel Clarke, John Ogden, Thomas "Wells, Obadiah Brqen, John Clark, Anthony Hawkins, John Deming, and Matthew Canfield, and all such others as then were, or should afterwards be admitted and made free of the corporation, should forever after be one body corporate and politic, in fact and name, by the name of the Governor And Company or The English Colony Op Connecticut In New-england In America ; and that by the same name, they and dieir successors should have perpetual succession. They were capacitated, as persons in law, to plead and be impleaded, to defend and be defended, in all suits whatsoever : To purchase, possess, lease, grant, demise, and sell lands, tenements, and goods, in as ample a manner, as any of his majesty's subjects or corporations in England. The charter ordained, that there should be, annually, two general assemblies ; one holden. on the second Thursday in May, and the other on the second Thursday in October. This was to consist of the* governor, deputy governor, and twelve assistants, with two deputies from every town or city. John Winthrop was appointed governor, and John Mason, deputy governor, and the gentlemen named above, magistrates, until a new election should be made.

The company were authorised to have a common seal, to appoint judicatories, make freemen, constitute officers, establish laws, impose fines, assemble the inhabitants in marshal array for the common defence, and to exercise martial law in all cases, in which it might be necessary.

It was ordained by the charter, that all the king's subjects, in the colony, should enjoy all the privileges of free and natural subjects within the realm of England ; and that the patent should always have the most favorable construction for the benefit of the governor and company.

Book I. The charier did not come over until after the election. ^rv^s This was on the 15th of May, and the freemen made no al1662. tcration in their officers.

Many of the colony of New-Haven appear to have been exceedingly opposed to king Charles, and to the royal instructions which they had received. It had been with great difficulty, that the governor and council had managed the government in such a manner, as to keep peace among the people, and not incur the displeasure of the king and his council. Though they had done as little as possible, consistent with loyalty, in conforming to his majesty's orders, yet they had done more than was pleasing to all. There had been some insurrections and tumults, and the authority, in some instances, had not been well treated. Some complained, that they could not enjoy their privilege* more amply ; and that none but church members could be freemen of the corporation.

Covernor Governor Leet, therefore, at the court of election, made Lect's a pacific speech to the freemen. He represented to them concilia- the great difficulties and dangers of (he year past, and the speech, divine goodness towards them, in the continuation of their May28th. civil and religious privileges. He acknowledged himself to be subject to many imperfectioqs, yet professed, that, in his office, he had acted conscientiously, consulting the common safety and happiness. lie declared1 his readiness to give the reasons of his conduct to any brother, or brethren, who would come to him, in an orderly manner. He acknowledged their kind affection and patience towards him, in covering and passing by his infirmities.

Upon this, the election proceeded, and he was chosen governor, and Matthew

Gilbert deputy governor. The deputy governor's not apprehending the regicides, did not, in any measure, injure his popularity. No objection was made against either of the governors. Mr. William Jones and Mr. William Gibbard were chosen magistrates, for New-Haven ; Mr. Benjamin Fenn and Mr. Robert Treat, for Milford ; and Mr. Jasper Crane, for Branford. Several of the magistrates took the oath, this year, with the explanations and exceptions which they had made the last. Before the session of the general assembly of Connecticut, in October, the charter was brought over; and as the governors and magistrates, appointed by his majesty, were ilot authorised to serve after this time, a general election , was appointed on the 9th of October.- John Winthrop, Oct. 9th,' Esq. was chosen governor, and John Mason, Esq. deputy lG6t. governor. The magistrates were, Matthew Allen, Samuel Wyllys, Nathan Gould, Richard Treat, John Ogden, John Tapping, John Talcott, Henry Wolcott, Daniel Book I. Clarke, and John Allen, Esquires, Mr. Baker, and Mr. v^-v-**/ Sherman. John Talcott, Esq. was treasurer, and Daniel 1662. Clarke, Esq. secretary.

Upon the day of the election, the charter was publicly read to the freemen, and declared to belong to them and their successors. They then proceeded to make choice of Mr. Wyllys, Mr. Talcott, and Mr. Allen, to receive the charter into their custody, and to keep it in behalf of the colony. It was ordered, that an oath should be administered by the court, to the freemen, binding them to a faithful discharge of the trust committed to them.

The general assembly established all former officers, Acts PMScivil and military, in their respective places of trust; and theurecepenacted, that all the laws of the colony should be continu-tion of the ed in full force, except such as should be found contrary charter, to the tenor of the charter. It was also enacted, that the same colony seal should be continued.

The major part of the inhabitants of Southhold, several of the people at Guilford, and of the towns of Stamford and Greenwich, tendering their persons and estates to Connecticut, and petitioning to enjoy the protection and privileges of this commonwealth, were accepted by the assembly, and promised the same protection and freedom, which was common to the inhabitants of the colony in general. .At the same time, it was enjoined upon them, to conduct themselves peaceably, as became christians, towards their neighbours, who did not submit to the jurisdiction of Connecticut; and that they should pay all taxes due to the ministers, with all other public charges then due. A message was sent to the Dutch governor, certifying him of the charter, granted to Connecticut, and desiring him, by no means, to trouble any of his majesty's subjects, within its limits, with impositions, or prosecutions from that jurisdiction.

The assembly gave notice to the inhabitants of Winchester, that they were comprehended within the limits of Connecticut ; and ordered, that, as his majesty had thus disposed of them, they should conduct themselves as peaceable subjects.

The assembly resolved, that the "inhabitants of Mistic and Pawcatuck should no more exercise any authority, by jurisdicvirtue of commissions from any other colony, but should Jjon to elect their town officers, and manage all their affairs, ac- tuc^c*n"d cording to the laws of Connecticut. It was also resolved, Long-Ui. that this, and some other towns, should pay twenty pounds aad.

Book I. each, towards defraying the expense of procuring the Vrf^^>^/ charter.*

1662. Huntinglon, Setauket, Oyster-Bay, and all the towns upon Long-Island, were obliged to submit to the authority, and govern themselves agreeably to the laws of Connecticut. A court was instituted at Southhold, consisting of captain John Youngg, and the justices of South and East-Hampton. The assembly resolved, that all the towns, which should be received under their jurisdiction, should bear their equal proportion of the charge of the colony, in procuring the patent.

A ointa As the charter included the colony of New-Haven, Mr. committee Matthew Allen, Mr. Samuel Wyllys, and the Rev. Messrs, to confer Stone and Hookrr, were appointed a committee, to prowith New- Ceed to New-Haven, and to treat with their friends there, aven> respecting an amicable union of the two colonies.!

The committee proceeded to New-Haven, and after a conference with the governor, magistrates, and principal gentlemen in the colony, left the following declaration, tp be communicated to the freemen.

" We declare, that through the providence of the Most High, a large and ample patent, and therein desirable privileges and immunities from his majesty, being come to our hand, a copy whereof we have left with you, to be considered, and yourselves, upon the sea coast, being included and interested therein, the king having united us in one body politic, we, according to the commission wherewith we are intrusted, by the General Assembly of Connecticut, do declare, in their name, that it is both their and our earnest desire, that there may be a happy and comfortable union between yourselves and us, according to the tenor of the charter; that inconveniences and dangers may be prevented, peace and truth strengthened and established, through our suitable subjection to the terms of the patent, and the blessing of God upon us therein."

The authority of New-Haven made the following reply. Wew-Ha- " We have received and perused your writings, and We re- near(j ine COpy reai] of hjs majesty's letters patent to Con necticut colony ; wherein, though we do not find the colo

ny of New-Haven expressly included, yet 16 show our de* It appears, from the appropriations made, and taxes imposed, to pay the charges of governor WinUirop's atrency, that the charter cost the colony about thirteen hundred pounds sterling.

t A thanksgiving was appointed by this assembly, through the colony, to celebrate the divine beneficence , especially, in granting them rach a favorable reception with his majesty, and such ample civil and religious privilege!, as had been conferred by their charter: and for God's gracioq* answer to the prayers of his people, in abating the cicfyien of the country* Md giving (hen rain in Itic time qf drought.

sire that matters may be issued in the conserving of peace Book I. and amity, with righteousness between them and us, we s^*-v-^/ shall communicate your writing, and a copy of the patent, 1662, to our freemen, and afterwards, with convenient speed, return their answer. Only we desire, that the issuing of matters may be respited, until we may receive fuller information from Mr. Winthrop, or satisfaction otherwise j and that in the mean time, this colony may remain distinct, entire, and uninterrupted, as heretofore: which we hope you will see cause lovingly to consent unto; and signify the same to us with convenient speed."

On the 4th of November, the freemen of the colony of _ New-Haven, convened in general court. The governor m°"[ ftt communicated the writings to the court, and ordered a copy New-Haof the patent to be read. After a short adjournment, for *e°, Novconsideration in an affair of so much importance, the freemen met again, and proceeded to a large discussion of the subject.

The Rev. Mr. Davenport was entirely opposed to an Mr, Dav~ union with Connecticut. He proceeded, therefore, to offer pos^TttoT a number of reasons, why the inhabitants of New-Haven union could not be included in the patent of that colony, and for which they ought by no means, voluntarily to form an union. He left his reasons in writing, for the consideration of the freemen. He observed that, he should leave others to act according to the Ught which they should receive.

It was insisted, that New-Haven had been owned as a distinct government, not only by her sister colonies, by the parliament, and the protector, during their administration; but by his majesty, king Charles the second: That it was against the express articles of confederation, by which Connecticut was no less-bound, than the other colonies : That New-Haven had never been certified of any such design, as their incorporation with Connecticut; and that they had never been heard on the subject. It was further urged, that, had it been designed to unite them with Connecticut, some of their names, at least, would have been put into the patent, with the other patentees; but none of them were there. Hence it was maintained, that it never could have been the design of his majesty, to comprehend them within the limits of the charter. It was argued, that for them to consent to an union would be inconsistent with their oath, to maintain that commonwealth, with all its privileges, civil and religious. Indeed, it was urged, that it would be incompatible both with their honor and most esjential interests.

(Jovcrnor Leet excused himself from speaking on the

Book I. subject, desiring rather to hear the freemen speak their *^-*s^/ minds freely, and to act themselves, with respect to the un

1662^. ion.

After the affair had been fully debated, the freemen resolved, that an answer to Connecticut should be drawn up under the following heads.

1. " Bearing a proper testimony against the great sin of Connecticut, in acting so contrary to righteousness, amity, and peace."

2. " Desiring that all further proceedings, relative to the affair, might be suspended, until Mr. Winthrop should return, or they might otherwise obtain further information and satisfaction."

3. " To represent, that they could do nothing in the affair, until they had consulted the other confederates."*

The freemen appointed all their magistrates and elders, with Mr. Law, of Stamford, a committee to draw up an answer to the General Assembly of Connecticut. They were directed to subjoin the weighty arguments, which they had against an union. If these should not avail, they were directed to prepare an address to his majesty, praying for relief.

The committee drew up a long letter, in which they declared, that they did not find any command in the patent, to dissolve covenants, and alter the orderly settlement of New-England ; nor a prohibition against their continuance as a distinct government. They represented, that the conduct of Connecticut, in acting at first without them, confirmed them in those sentiments; and that the way was still open for them to petition his majesty, and obtain immunities, similar to those of Connecticut. They declared, that they must enter their appeal from the construction which Connecticut put upon the patent; and desired that they might not be interrupted, in the enjoyment of their distinct privileges. They solicited, that proceedings relative ta an union might rest, until they might obtain further infonmillion, consult their confederates, and know his majesty's pleasure concerning them.

The committee then proceeded to represent the unreasonable and injurious conduct of Connecticut towards them, in beginning to exercise jurisdiction within their limits, before they had given them any intimations that they were included in their charter ; before they had invited them to an amicable union; and before they had any representation in their assembly, or name in their patent. They urged, that, in such a procedure, they had encouraged djvi» sion, and given -countenance to disaffected persons: that Book I. they had abetted them in slighting solemn covenants and ^*~v-^s oaths, by which the peace of the towns and churches, in 1662. that colony, was greatly disturbed. Further, they insisted, that, by this means, his majesty's pious designs were counteracted, and his interests disserved: that great scandal was brought upon religion before the natives, and the beauty of a peaceable, faithful and brotherly walking exceedingly marred among themselves. The committee also represented, that these transactions were entirely inconsistent with the engagements of governor Winthrop, contrary to his advice to Connecticut, and tended to bring injurious reflections and reproach upon him. They earnestly prayed for a copy of all which he had written to the deputy governor and company on the subject. On the whole, they professed themselves exceedingly injured and grievjed ; and intreated the general assembly of Connecticut to adopt speedy and effectual measures to repair the breaches which they had made* and to restore them to" their former state, as a confederate and sister colony.*

* Records of New-Havcir.

Connecticut made no reply to this letter; but at a gene- Assembly ral assembly, holden March ttth, 1663, appointed the de-a* C°nputy governor, Messrs. Matthew and John Allen, and Mr. March" H, John Talcott, a committee to treat with their friends at 1663. New-Haven, on the subject of an union. But the hasty measures which the general assembly had taken, in admit*ting the disaffected members of the several towns, under the jurisdiction of New-Haven, to their protection, and to the privileges of freemen of their corporation, and in that way beginning to dismember that colony, before they had invited them to incorporate with them, had so soured theip Btinds and prejudiced them, that this committee had no better success than the former.

In consequence of the claims of Connecticut, and of Generaf what had passed between the two colonies, governor Lcet court at called a special assembly at New-Haven, on the 6th of New".Sa^ M ;iy. It was then proposed to the court, whether, consid- eth.' ering the present state of the colony, and the affairs depending between them and Connecticut, any alteration should be made, with respect to the time or manner of their election ? The freemen resolved, that no alteration should be made. They then determined upon a remon- Remonstrance, or declaration, to be sent to the general assembly**TM^ of Connecticut. In this they gave an historical account of Connect}* the ends of their coming, with their brethren in the united cat. colonies, into New-England, and of the solemn manner in * Letter to Counecticut, \o.X.

Book I. which these colonies had confederated ; and insinuated, Vk^v^/ that the conduct of Connecticut towards them, was directly 1663. contrary to the designs of the first planters of New-England, and to that express article of the confederation, that no one colony should be annexed to another, without the consent of the other colonies. They declared, that if, through the contrivance of Connecticut, without their knowledge or consent, the patent did circumscribe that colony, it was, in their opinion, contrary to brotherly fove, righteousness, and peace. They also declared, that, notwithstanding the sense which Connecticut put upon their patent, they could not find one line or letter in it, expressing his majesty's pleasure, that they should become one with that colony. The court affirmed, that they were necessitated to bear testimony against the appointment of constables and other officers, in the towns under their jurisdiction, and the dismembering of their colony, by receiving their disaffected people under the protection of a legislature distinct from theirs, and in which they had no representation. They remonstrated against this, as distracting the colony, destroying the comfort, and hazarding the lives and liberties of their confederates; as giving great offence to their consciences, and as matter of high provocation and complaint before God and man. All this unbrotherly and unrighteous management, they represented as exceedingly aggravated, in that, notwithstanding their former representations and intreaties, in writing, notwithstanding their appeal to his majesty, and notwithstanding all their past distress and sufferings, they were still pursuing the same course. They still declared, that they appealed to his majesty; and that, exceedingly grieved and afflicted, they, in the sight of God, angels, ana men, testified against sucb proceedings.*

Governor While these affairs were transacted in the colonies, the Wjntlirop petition and address of New-Haven, to his majesty, arrived Connec'u in England. -Upon which governor Winthrop, who was cut, March yet there, by the advice of the friends of both colonies, Su. agreed, that no injury should be done to New-Haven, and

that the union and incorporation of the two colonies should be voluntary. Therefore, on the 3d of March, 1663, he wrote to the deputy governor and company of Connecticut, certifyingvfhem of his engagements to the agent oi New-Haven; and that, before he took out the charter, he had given assurance to their friends, that their interests and privileges should not be injured by the patent. He represented, that they were bound by the assurances hct "No. XI.

had given ; and, therefore, wished them to abstain from all Book I. further injury and trouble of that colony. He imputed V_x-n^-»^/ what they had done to their ignorance of the engagements 1663. which he had made. At the same time, he intimated his assurance, that, on his return, he should be able to effect an amicable union of the colonies.*

At the election in Connecticut, Mr. Howell and Mr. Jas- Election atper Crane were chosen magistrates, instead of Mr. John Hartfor(l' Allen and Mr. John Ogden.T Mr. John Allen was appoint- j663. ' ed treasurer;

Connecticut now laid claim to West-Chester, and sent July lOrf» one of their magistrates to lead the inhabitants to the choice of their officers, and to administer the proper oaths to such as they should elect. The colony also extended their claim to the Narraganset country, and appointed officers for the government of the inhabitants at Wickford.

Notwithstanding the remonstrance of the court at New- Commit* Haven, their appeal to king Charles the second, and the tee_ aPcngagements of governor Winthrop, Connecticut pursued the affair of an union, in the same manner in which it was .

begun. At a session of the general assembly, August 19th, New-Ha1663, the deputy governor, Mr. Wyllys, Mr. Daniel Clarke, and Mr. John Allen, were appointed a committee to treat with their friends of New-Haven, Milford, Guilford, and Branford, relative to their incorporation with Connecticut. Provided they could not effect an union, by treaty, they were authorised to read the charter publicly at New-Haven, and to make declaration to the people there, that the assembly could not but resent their proceeding, as a distinct jurisdiction, since they were evidently included within the limits of the charter, granted to the corporation of Connecticut. They w«re instructed to proclaim, that the assembly did desire, and could not but expect, that the inhabitants of New-Haven, Milford, Guilford, Branford, and Stamford, would yield subjection to the government of Connecticut.

At the meeting of the commissioners, in September, Jfew-Haven was owned by the colonies, as a distinct con- sioneTM federate. Governor Leet and Mr. Fenn, who had been Boston,sent from that jurisdiction, exhibited a complaint against Sept. 3d, Connecticut, of the injuries which they had done, by en-16e3croaching upon their rights, receiving their members under comp|ajDt their government, and encouraging them to disown their Of Newauthority, to disregard their oath of allegiance, and to re- Havent fuse all attendance on their courts. They further complain

* Governor Winthrop's letter to Connecticut, No. XH.

t Mr. Crane wa§ chosen magistrate, this year, in both colotrie?.

cd, that Connecticut had appointed constables in several of their towns, to the great disquiet and injury of the colony. They prayed, that effectual measures might be taken to redress their grievances, to prevent further injuries, and secure theirrights as a distinct confederate.

Governor Winthrop and Mr. John Talcott, commissioners from Connecticut, replied, that, in their opinion, NewHaven had no just grounds of complaint; that Connecticut had never designed them any injury, but had made to them the most friendly propositions, inviting them to share with them freely in all the important and distinguishing privileges, which (hey had obtained for themselves ; that they had sent committees amicably to treat with them; that they were .still treating, and would attend all just and friendly means of accommodation.

The commissioners of the other colonies, having fully heard the parties, determined, that as the colony of NewHaven had been " owned, in the ankles of confederation, as distinct from Connecticut, and having been so owned* by the colonies jointly in the present meeting, in all their actings, they may not, by any acts of violence, have their liberty of jurisdiction infringed, by any other of the united colonies, without breach of the articles of confederation; and that where any act of power hath been exerted against their authority, (hat the same ought to be recalled, and their power reserved to them entire, until such time, as, in an orderly way, it shall be otherwise disposed." With respect to the particular grievances, mentioned by the commissioners of New-Haven, the consideration of them was referred to the next meeting of the commissioners at Hartford.*

The extending of the claims of Connecticut to all the plantations upon Long-Island, to West-Chester, and the neighbouring towns, alarmed Stuyvesant, the Dutch governor. He, therefore, appeared before the commissioners at Boston, and complained of the infraction of the articles of agreement, concluded at Hartford, between the English and Dutch, and desired the commissioners to determine, whether they considered said articles as binding the parties or not.

As this complaint respected Connecticut more especially, governor Winthrop and Mr. Talcott replied, in behalf of their constituents. They pleaded, that, as it was an affair of great concernment, and as Connecticut had not been certified of any such complaint, and they had no instructions relative to the subject, the decision of it might be deferred until the next meeting of the commissioners. * Records of the united colonies, vol.«.

. ance to his majesty, and his claim to the lands in contro- v^-v-x*/ versy, and the right of Connecticut colony, by virtue of 1663. their charter, they did, for themselves, esteem the articles Determiof agreement, in 1650, to be binding, and that they would "at<on of not countenance the violation of them. They advised the missioners. parties concerned, to refer all matters, respecting the subject, to the next meeting of the commissioners. In the mean time, they advised, that the articles of agreement should .be observed, and that all persons in the places in controversy, should be acquitted from penalties and damages, on the account of their having resisted the authority of the Dutch.*

Connecticut was now attacked from all quarters. While the colony was without a royal grant, its neighbours made encroachments with impunity 5 and now, when it extended its claims, by virtue of regal authority, they all complained, and took all possible advantage of former encroachments and decisions, at times when they could plead no such authority. As all the united colonies, except Plymouth, were affected by the claims of the colony, so they were mutually interested in opposing and determining against them.

As Connecticut had now claimed Pawcatuck, or Southcrton, and prohibited the exercise of any authority there, except such as was derived from the legislature of that colony, the inhabitants had exhibited three addresses to the general court of Massachusetts, petitioning for relief and protection.

The commissioners from Massachusetts, Mr. Bradstreet and Mr. Danforth, laid the complaints and petitions before the commissioners of the other colonies, and prayed for relief, according to the provision made, in such cases, in the articles of confederation.

The court of commissioners advised, that the affair should be respited for the present; that Connecticut should apply to the general court of the Massachusetts, for an amicable settlement: and that, if this should not be effected, the aggrieved party might make application to the commissioners, at their next meeting. In the mean time, they advised, that affairs at Southerton, should be managed according to their former decisions.

When the general assembly of Connecticut convened, in Gene")

-. , i-i .> i I assembly,

October, they paid particular attention to these great ob- Oct. 8tb, jects of general concernment. Notwithstanding all which 1663. * Records of the united colonies, vol. II.

1663.

Act respecting New-Ha

Book I. had happened relative to New-Haven, the following act passed.

" This court doth declare, that they can do no less, for their own indemnity, than to manifest their dissatisfaction with the plantations of New-Haven, Milford, Guilford, Stamford, and Branford, in their distinct standing from us, in point of government; it being directly opposite to the tenor of the charter, lately granted to our colony of Connecticut, in which these plantations are included. We do also expect their submission to our government, according to our charter, and his majesty's pleasure therein expressed ; it being a stated conclusion with the commissioners, that jurisdiction right goeth with patent. And whereas, the aforesaid people of New-Haven, Milford, Guilford, Stamford, and Branford, pretend they have power of government, distinct from us, we do hereby declare, that our council will be ready to attend them, or a committee of iheirs; and if they can rationally make it appear, that they have such power, and that we have wronged them according to their complaints, we shall be ready to attend them with due satisfaction."*

The assembly appointed a committee to draught a letter to the gentlemen at New-Haven, and to inclose to them the preceding resolution.

Agents were sent to this assembly from the Manhadoes, to treat with the legislature, relative to the differences subsisting between them and the Dutch. A petition, at the same time, was presented from the English plantations upon Long-Island, in the vicinity of the Dutch, praying for the protection and privileges of the corporation of Connecticut. Upon which the assembly passed the following resolve :

" That, as they were solicitous to maintain the interests and peace of his majesty's subjects, and yet to attend all ways of righteousness, so that they might hold a friendly correspondence with their neighbours, at the Manhadoes, they would, for the present, forbear all acts of authority towards the English plantations on the west end of Long-Island, provided the Dutch would forbear to exercise any coercive power towards them; and this court shall cease from further attendance unto the premises, until there be a seasonable return, from the general Stevenson, to those propositions his messengers carried with them, or until there be an issue of the difference, between them and us. And, in case the Dutch do unjustly molest or offer violence unto them, we declare, that we shall not be willing to seq

* Records of Coonec tie uU

AgcnU from the Dutch.

our countrymen, his majesty's natural born subjects, and Book I. his interests, interrupted or molested, by the Dutch or any >-x-%/->-/ others ; but we shall address ourselves, to use such just 1665. and lawful means, as God shall, in his wisdom, offer to our hands, for their indemnity and safety, until his majesty, our sovereign lord the king, shall please to declare his royal pleasure for their future settlement."

As governor Winthrop was now returned from England, the assembly embraced the first opportunity to present him with the thanks of the colony, for the great pains he had taken, and the special services he had rendered it, in procuring the charter.

The legislature, determining to securei as far as possible, the lands within the limits of their charter, authorised one Thomas Pell to purchase of the Indian proprietors all that tract between West-Chester and Hudson's river, and the waters which made the Manhadoes an island ; and resolv-ed, that it should be added to West-Chester.

The towns on the west end of Long-island petitioning to be under the government of Connecticut, the assembly declared, that, as the lines of their patent extended to the adjoining islands, they accepted those towns under their jurisdiction.

It was resolved, in October, that Hammonasset should October, be a town. The same month, twelve planters, principally from Hartford, Windsor, andGuilford, fixed their residence there. It was afterwards named Killingworth. At the October session, 1703, the assembly gave them a patent, confirming to the proprietors all the lands within the limits pf the town.*

While these affairs were transacted in Connecticut, the Oct, ^ colony of New-Haven persisted in their opposition to an in- J^cg^" corporation with that government. On the 22d of Octo- at Newber, their general court convened, and governor Leet ac- Haven quainted the court, that, since the meeting of the commissioners, their committee had written to Connecticut to the cu°t° following effect: That as the commissioners had unanimously established the confederation, and the distinct and entire jurisdiction of each confederate colony, they judged, that it would not be unacceptable to present to their general assembly our request, that they Would act in conformity to the advice of the commissioners, and recal all former acts, inconsistent with their determinations. They insisted, that a compliance with their wishes would be no ob

* The name originally designed was Kennelworth, and thug it u written, for some years, on the records of the colony, but by mistake it w.r. j*!corded Killingworth, and thjs name finally prevailed.

Book I. struction to an amicable treaty; but that its tendency v^-v^s would be sooner to effect the union, which they desired: 1663. That it could, by no means, endanger their patent, nor any of their chartered rights; and that they had the countenance of all the confederates, to apologize for them in their present request, and in maintaining their rights, as a distinct jurisdiction. Governor Leet further certified the court, that their committee had desired an answer to their letter, before the present session of their general court, and previously to their answering the proposals made to them by Connecticut.

The free- The freemen of the colony of New-Haven were not only termine~to opposed to an incorporation with Connecticut, but even to hold no treating with them, under the then present circumstances, further The court, after a long and serious debate, considering,

withth t that the 8eneral court of Connecticut had not complied colony. w'tn tnc'r request, but still claimed a right of jurisdiction over them, and countenanced the malcontents in their several towns, were decidedly against any further treaty. The following resolution was adopted. " That no treaty be made, by this colony, with Connecticut, before such acts ot power, exerted by them, upon any of our towns, be revoked and recalled, according to the honorable Mr. Winthrop's letter engaging the same, the commissioners' determination, and our frequent desires."

Order that The court ordered, that the magistrates, or other offibe'dL*-1"1" cers' wnere there were no magistrates, should issue wartrained rants, according to law, to attach the personal estate of those who, upon legal demand, had refused, or should refuse to make payment of their rates, It was provided, that, in case of resistance and forcible rescue, violence should not be used to the shedding of blood, unless it were in a man's own defence. The court further determined to make application to his majesty for redress. The plan adopted by the court, as circumstances then were, was to petition the king for a bill of exemption from the government of Connecticut, and to leave the affair of procuring a patent, for that colony, to the wisdom of their agents iu England, as they should judge to be most expedient.

A tax of 300 pounds was levied upon the colony, for the purpose of enabling them to prosecute the affair before his majesty in council.

A day of extraordinary fasting and prayer was appointed to supplicate divine mercy, for the afflicted people of God universally, and especially for themselves, that they might be directed to the proper means of obtaining an established and permanent enjoyment of their just rights and privileges.

The affairs of the colony of New-Haven were now ex- Book I. ceedingly embarrassed, and approaching to an important v.x-v'x^ crisis. The colony was much in debt. Taxes had not 1663. been punctually collected. Many were disaffected with Emharthe government, and refused to pay any thing for its sup-TMs*cd port. When the officers of New-Haven attempted to col- piew-Halect the taxes, which had been imposed, they repaired to Ten. Connecticut for protection ; and, with too little appearance of justice, or brotherly affection, were protected, by its legislature. Indeed the colony was so reduced, that it coult not pay the stated salaries of its principal officers. While the court expressed their ardent desires, were it in their power, to give the governors the full salary, which had been usual, yet, considering the low state of the colony, and the numbers withdrawn from them, they judged they were not able to give the governor more than forty pounds, and the deputy governor not more than ten.

No sooner did the officers begin to distrain the rates of Alarm at those who refused to pay, than it produced the most alarm- Guilford, ing and dangerous consequences. One John Rossiter of and'JfewGuilford, and his son, bold and disorderly men, who had Haven, been punished for misdemeanors, by the authority of the Dec. 30th. colony of New-Haven, made a journey to Hartford, and obtained two of the magistrates of Connecticut, a constable, and several others, to come down to Guilford, on the night of the 30th of December. By firing a number of guns in the night, they greatly alarmed and disturbed the town. Some of the men, from Connecticut, were rough, and used high and threatening language. In such a crisis, governor Leet judged it expedient to send immediately to Branford and New-Haven, for assistance. Both the towns were alarmed, in the dead time of night, and forwarded men to the aid of the governor. The governor and magistrates conducted affairs with such moderation and prudence, that no mischief was done. The gentlemen from Connecticut remonstrated against collecting taxes from those, who had been taken under the protection of that colony, and desired New-Haven to suspend the affair for further consideration.

Governor Leet therefore convoked a special court, at General New-Haven, on the 7th of January, 1664. He opened <L°urt at the public business, by acquainting the court, that it was veenWja*~ thf earnest desire of the magistrates from Connecticut, 7th' W64. and of Mr. Rossiter and his son, that the act of the general court of New-Haven, relative to the distraining of taxes, might be suspended, until there could be another conference between the colonies ; at which, they were in expcc

Haven case.

Book I. tation, that all difficulties might be amicably settled. He v^-v-x^ also laid before the court the representations which the 1663; gentlemen from Connecticut had made of the great danger there would be, in carrying that act into execution, in direct opposition to the authority of Connecticut. It was desired, that the court would maturely consider the afiair.

The court insisted, that all former treaties with ConnecPcrsisUin t'cut bad been without any good effect; and persisted in its resolu- the resolution, that, until the members, which had been so tionnotto unrighteously taken from them, should be restored, they ConMcti- would hold no further treaty with that colony.* Mr. Dacut, venportand Mr. Street were appointed to make a draught of their grievances, to be transmitted to the General Assembly of Connecticut. It was to be examined and approved by such a number of their committee, as could be convened upon the occasion. They drew up a long and sensible Statement remonstrance, which they termed " New-haven Case Staof New- Ted.-" The subject was introduced with a declaration to this effect: That it was their deep sense of the injuries, which the colony had suffered, by the claims and encroachments, which had been made upon their just prerogatives and privileges,- which had induced them, unanimously, though with great reluctance, to declare their grievances unto them. They proceeded then, to declare, that they settled at New-Haven, with the consent of Connecticut; had purchased the whole tract of land, which they had settled upon the sea coast, of the Indians, the original proprietors of the soil; and had quietly possessed it nearly six and twenty years : That they had expended great estates, in clearing, fencing, and cultivating the lands, without any assistance from Connecticut; and had formed themselves, by voluntary compact, into a distinct commonwealth. They then proceeded to state a great variety of instances, in which Connecticut, the united colonies, the parliament, and protector, the king, and his council, had owned them as a distinct colony. They insisted that, notwithstanding, they had now procured a patent including New-Haven, not only without their concurrence, but contrary to their minds, previously expressed ; contrary to the express articles of the confederation, and to their own engagements, not to include them in the charter. Further they affirmed, that Mr. Winthrop, before his departure for England, had, by his letters, given assurance, that it was not designed%> include New-Haven in the patent; and that the magistrates of Connecticut had agreed, that, if the patent should include them, they should be at full liberty to incorporate * Records of New-Haven.

with them or not, as should be most agreeable to their in- Book I. clinations. They alledged that, contrary to all the prem- x^-v-v^ ises, to justice, to good faith, to brotherly kindness, to the 1664. peace and order of church and commonwealth, Connecticut, even in their first assembly, proceeded to the dismemberment of the colony of New-Haven, by receiving its members from Stamford, Guilford, and Southhold: That, after such dismemberment, they had preposterously pretended to treat with them relative to an union: And that, after a conference with the committee from Connecticut, and the reading of their charter, it did not appear that they were so much as mentioned, or that it had any reference to them. They declared that, in a full persuasion of his majesty's pleasure, to continue them a distinct jurisdiction, they had assured the committee of their design to appeal to him, and know his royal purpose : That, though they immediately sent their appeal; yet that, out of tender respect to the peace and honor of Mr. Winthrop, they advised their friends, in England, to acquaint him with their papers, that he might adopt some effectual expedient, to compromise the unhappy differences between the two colonies : And that it was on the account of Mr. Winthrop's engagements to their friends, that their rights and interests should not be disquieted nor injured, that the appeal to his majesty was then suspended.* From a statement of these, and some other facts and circumstances, they attempted to demonstrate their rights, as a distinct colony, and the injustice, unfaithfulness, ingratitude, and cruelty of Connecticut, in their claims upon them, and in the manner of their prosecuting them. Their beginning to dismember their colony, by receiving and protecting their subjects and malcontents, previous to any treaty with them ; their appointing officers, creating animosities, and raising alarms in their several towns, were especially insisted on, as contrary to all their covenants, as brethren and confederates, and contrary to all order, peace, and justice.

The General Assembly of Connecticut, at their session Assembly in May, avowed their claim to Long-Island, as one of the a.1 Conne<> adjoining islands mentioned in their charter, except some preceding right should appear, approved by his majesty. Officers were appointed, by the court at Hampstead, Jamaica, Newtown, Flushing, Oyster-Bay, and all the towns General upon the west end of the island. election at

Upon the general election at New-Haven, the freemen New"/?a~ proceeded to the choice of their civil officers, as had been ^"^ ajr * Records of Jfew-Haven.

Bukeof

York's

patent.

Book I. usual. Governor Leet was rechosen, and Mr. William ^~v-+*. Jones was elected deputy-governor. Matthew Gilbert, 1664. Esq. the former deputy-governor, Mr. Benjamin Fenn, Mr. Jasper Crane, Mr. Treat, and Mr. Nash, were appointed magistrates. The two last would not accept the office. The governor and deputy-governor were chosen commissioners for the next meeting at Hartford. The colony was now become so weakr and {he affairs of it so embarrassed, by the claims and proceedings of Connecticut, that the general court either did no business, or judged it expedient to put nothing upon record.

In this situation of affairs, an event took place, which alarmed all the New-England colonies, and at once changed the opinions of the commissioners, and of New-Haven, with respect to their incorporation with Connecticut.

King Charles the second, on the 12th of March, 1664, gave a patent to his brother, the Duke of York and Albany, of several extensive tracts of land, in North America, the boundaries of which are thus described.

" All that part of the main land of New-England, beginning at a certain place, called and known by the name of St. Croix, next adjoining to New-England in America, and ffQm tnence extending along the sea coast unto a certain place called Pemaquie or Pemaquid, and so up the river thereof, to the furthest head of the same, as it tendeth northward ; and extending from thence to the river Kembequin. and saupwards by the shortest course to the river Canada, northward : and also, all that island or islands, commonly called by the general name or names of Meitowax, or Long-Island, situate and being toward the west of Cape Cod, and the narrow Highgansets, abutting upon the main land between the two rivers there called or known by the several names of Connecticut and Hudson's river, and all the land from the west side of Connecticut river to the east side of Delaware bay, and also all those several islands called or known by the names of Martin's Vineyard or Nantucks, otherwise Nantucket : together," &c.

The concern of the Duke of York for his property, the aversion both of his majesty and the duke to the Dutch, with the differences between them and the New-England colonies, made an expedition against the New-Netherlands a prime object of their attention. Though his majesty Armament king Charles II. was an indolent prince, devoted to dissifor the re- pation and pleasure, yet, under the influence of these moduction of tives, an armament was soon prepared, and a fleet dis"'^ patcned to New-England, for the reduction of the Dutch settlements on the continent. Colonel Richard Nichol? was chief commander of the fleet and army. Colonel Book I. Nichols had not only a commission, for the reduction of ^^^-^jf the Dutch plantations, and the government of them, but he, 16G4. with George Cartwrith, Esq. Sir Robert Carr, and Samuel CommisMaverick, Esq. were appointed commissioners, by his ma- "10"ers jesty, and vested with extraordinary powers, for visiting trao'nKnathe New-England colonies ; hearing and determining all ry power*, matters of complaint and controversy between them, and settling the country in peace.*

Colonel Nichols arrived at Boston, with the fleet and Colonel troops under his command, on the 23d of July, 1664. HeNic.holi immediately communicated his commission to the colonies, Boston, and his majesty's requisition of troops, to assist in the ex- July 23d. pedition against the Dutch. He then sailed for the NewNetherlands, and on the 20th of August, made a demand of Demands the town and forts upon the island of Manhadocs. Heasurrenhad previously sent letters to governor Winthrop to joind.erof*j>e him, at the west end of Long-Island. Governor Winthrop, town at with several of the magistrates and principal gentlemen of th« ManConnecticut, joined him, according to his wishes. hadoes

Stuyvesant, the Dutch governor, was an old soldier, and had he been better prepared, and the people united, doubtless would have made a brave defence. But he had no intimations of the design, until the 8th of July, when he received intelligence, that a fleet of three or four ships of war, with three hundred and fifty soldiers on board, were about to sail from England, against the Dutch settlements. Upon this, he immediately ordered that the forts should be put into a state of defence, and sent out spies into several parts of Connecticut, with a view of obtaining further information. Indeed, the tradition has been, that the Dutch . governor, apprehending the danger in which all the Dutch plantations would immediately be, on the arrival of the fleet, should the colonies unite against them, came to Hartford to negotiate a neutrality with Connecticut; and that he was there when he received the news of the arrival of the fleet at Boston. The story has been, that he made his departure in the night, and returned with the utmost expedition.

He was extremely opposed to a surrender of the fort Dutch govand town. Instead of submitting to the summons at first emor opsent him, he drew up a long statement of the Dutch claims, [t and their indubitable right to the country. He insisted that, had the king of England known the justice of their claims, he never would have adopted such measures against them. He concluded, by assuring colonel Nichols, that

JJo. xiii. and his majesty's letter No. Jut.

Book I. he should not submit to his demands, nor fear any evils, wv^w but such as God, in his providence, should inflict upon 1664. him.*

Colonel Nichols, in his first summons, had, in his majesty's name, given assurance, that the Dutch, upon their , submission, should be safe, as to life, liberty, and property. Governor Winthrop also wrote a letter to the governor and council, advising them to surrender. But they were careful to secrete the writings from the people, lest the easy terms proposed, should induce them to surrender. The burgo-masters and people desired to know of the governor, what was the import of the writings he had received, and pte'oppose especially of the letter from governor Winthrop. The bim. Dutch governor and his council giving them no intelligence, they solicited it still more earnestly. The governor, irritated at this, in a paroxysm of anger, tore the letter in pieces. Upon which the people protested against his conduct, and all its consequences.

The com- While the governor and his council were thus contendnmiimiers jng with the burgo-masters and people,, in the town, the »8ue a English commissioners caused a proclamation to be pub

proclania- .. ,° , . , r i L i i

tjon. lished, in the country, encouraging the inhabitants to submit to his majesty's government. This promised to all the inhabitants, who would become subject to his majesty, " that they should be protected by his majesty's laws and justice, and peaceably enjoy whatever God's blessing, and their honest industry, had furnished them with, and all the other privileges with his majesty's English subjects." The Dutch The colonel, finding that the Dutch governor was deterA^tT mined, if possible, to keep his station, sent officers to Jadam, fort maica, Hampstead, and other towns, upon the island, to Orange, beat up for volunteers. Captain Hugh Hyde, whocomand "ela- manded the ships, had orders to proceed to the reduction miTto'hV °f 'he fort.t Troops were raised in New-England, and majesty's ready to march upon the first notice. Two thirds of the. nrm«, and inhabitants upon Long-Island were English subjects, and Relish wished for the success of his majesty's arms. They were mhjects. ready, if necessary, to afford their immediate assistance. In such circumstances, opposition would have been madness. The Dutch therefore, on the 27th of August, submitted on terms of capitulation. The articles secured them, in the enjoyment of liberty of conscience in divine worship, and their own mode of discipline. The Dutch governor and people became English subjects, enjoyed tlu-i i estates, and all the privileges of Englishmen. Upon

* Smith's History of New-York, p. 12, 1<. + The tome, p. 10,23.

surrender of the town of New-Amsterdam, it was uaincd Book I. New-York, in honor to the duke of York. *~r~-s~**s

Part of the armament immediately sailed up the river, 1G64. under the command of Cartcret, to fort Orange, or Aurania. This surrendered on the 24th of September. This was named Albany, in honor to the duke of York and Albany. Sir Robert Carr proceeded with another division of the fleet to Delaware. He obliged the Dutch and Swedes to capitulate, and deliver up their respective garrisons, on the 1st of October. Upon this day, the whole of NewNetherlands became subject to the crown of England. The Dutch, who before had given so much trouble to the English colonists, from this time, commenced their loyal and. peaceable fellow subjects.

The short time the commissioners tarried at Boston, before they proceeded upon their expedition against the Dutch, was sufficient to discover something of their extraordinary powers, and such a taste of the high and arbitrary manner in which they conducted, as spread a general alarm, and awakened, in the colonies, serious apprehensions for their liberties. Mr. Whiting, who was at Bos- New» and

ton, and learned much of their temper, was sent back, in ?llTIC« p . . ,. . - , . r ' . i i from Bos.

haste, to give information of the danger, in which, it waston.

apprehended, the colonies all were ; to advise New-Haven to incorporate with Connecticut, without delay; and to make a joint exertion for the preservation of their chartered rights. This was pressed, not only as absolutely necessary for New-Haven, but for the general safety of the country.

In consequence of this intelligence, a general court was Generaj convened at New-Haven, on the llth of August, 1664. court at Governor Leet communicated the intelligence which he New-Havhad received from their friends at Boston. He acquainted j?'thAu!'u"t them that Mr. Whiting and Mr. Bull had made a visit to New-Haven, and in their own names, and in behalf of the magistrates of Connecticut, pressed their immediate subjection to their government. Further, the court was certified, that after some treaty with those gentlemen, their committee had given an answer, purporting, that, if Connecticut would, in his majesty's name, assert their claim to the colony of New-Haven, and secure them in the full enjoyment of all the immunities, which they had proposed, and engage to make a united exertion, for the preservation of their chartered rights, they would make their submission. After a long debate the court resolved, that, if Connecticut should come and assert their claim, as had been agreed, they would submit until the meeting of the commissioners of the united colonies. The magistrates and principal gentlemen of the colony, seem to have been sensible, not only of the expediency, but necessity of an incorporation with Connecticut. The opposition, however, was so general among the people, that nothing further could be effected.

The court of commissioners was so near at hand, that governor Winthrop and his council judged it not expedient to make any further demands upon New-Haven, until their advice could be known. However, when the general assembly met, early in September, they passed a remonstrance against the sitting of governor Leet and deputy governor Jones with the commissioners. In the remonstrance they declared, that New-Haven was not a colony, but a part of Connecticut, and avowed their claim to it as such. They insisted, that owning that as a colony, distinct from Connecticut, after his majesty had, by his letters patent, incorporated it with that colony, was inconsistent with the king's pleasure; would endanger the rights of all the colonies, and especially the charter-rights ol Connecticut. The assembly, at the same time, declared, that they would have a tender regard to their honored friends and brethren, at New-Haven, and exert themselves to accommodate them, with all the immunities and privileges which were conveyed by their charter. *

On the 1st of September, the court of commissioners met at Hartford. The commissioners from New-Haven were allowed their seats with the other confederates. The case of New-Haven and Connecticut was fully heard, and though the court did not approve of the manner, in which Connecticut had proceeded, yet they earnestly pressed a speedy and amicable union of the two colonies. They represented, that the divioe honor, and the welfare of all the colonies, as well as their own, were greatly concerned in the event.

To remove all obstructions on their part, the commissioners recommended it to the general courts of Massachusetts and Plymouth, that, in case the colony of New-Haven should incorporate with Connecticut, they might then be owned as one colony, and send two commissioners to each meeting -, and that the determinations of any four of the six, should be equally binding on the confederates, as the conclusions of six out of eight, had been before. It was also proposed to the court, that the meeting, which of course had been at New-Haven, should be at Hartford.*

* Records of the united colonies. It was determined, -fct this court, hat their meetings, for the future, should be triennial.

In compliance with the advice of the commissioners, gov- Book I. ornor Leet convened the general court at New-Haven, on *v-x-v-^^ the 14th of September, and communicated the advice 1664. which had been given, and papers from the committee of General Connecticut, advising and urging them to unite. They ^"^y^. referred it to their most serious consideration, whether, ifven. the king's commissioners should visit them, they would not be much better able to vindicate their liberty and just rights, in union with Connecticut, under a royal patent, than in their then present circumstances. Many insisted, No vote notwithstanding, " That to stand as God had kept them to °°br'TM^.. that time was their best way." Others were entirely of jon."""' the contrary opinion, and after the fullest discussion of the subject, no vote for union or treaty could be obtained.

New-Haven and Branford were more fixed and obsti- Grounds nate in their opposition to an incorporation with Connec-°/°pP°** ticut, than any of the other towns in that colony. Mr. union with Davenport and Mr. Pierson seem to have been among its Connectichief supporters. They, with many of the inhabitants ofcut, the colony, were more rigid, with respect to the terms of church communion, than the ministers and churches of Connecticut generally were. The ministers and churches in Connecticut were, a considerable number of them, in favor of the propositions of the general council, which met at Cambridge, in 1662, relative to the baptism of children, whose parents were not in full communion. The ministers and churches of New-Haven were universally and utterly against them. Mr. Davenport, and others in this colony, were also strong in the opinion, that all government should be in the church. No person in this colony could be a freeman, unless he were a member in full communion. But in Connecticut, all orderly persons, possessing a freehold to a certain amount, might be made free of the corporation. Those gentlemen, who were so strong in the opposition, were, doubtless, jealous that an union would mar the purity, order, and beauty of their churches, and have an ill influence on the civil administrations. The removal of the seat of government ; the apprehension which some had of losing their places of trust and general influence; with strong prejudices and passions against Connecticut, on account of the injuries, which it was conceived it had done the colony, all operated in forming the opposition. Besides, it was a painful reflection, that, after they had been at so much pains and expense to form and support themselves as a distinct commonwealth, and had been so many years owned as one, their existence mus<: cease and their name be obliterated.

This event, however, was hastening, and grew more and more urgent. Milford, at this time, broke off from them, arid Would no more send either magistrate or deputies to the general court. Mr. Richard Law, a principal gentleman at Stamford, also deserted them.

In this state of affairs, the general assembly of Connecticut convened, on the 13th of October. This was an important crisis with the colony. In few instances, have so many important objects of consideration, at one time, presented themselves to a legislature. Their liberties were not only in equal danger with those of their sister colonies, from the extraordinary powers, and arbitrary dispositions and measures of the king's commissioners, but the duke of York, a powerful antagonist, had received a patent, covering Long-Island and all that part of the colony west of Connecticut river. The Massachusetts were encroaching upon them on their northern and eastern boundaries. William and Anne, the duke and dutchcss of Hamilton, had petitioned his majesty to restore to them the tract of country granted to their father, James, marquis of Hamilton, in the year 1635 ; and his majesty had, on the 6th of May, 1664, referred the case to the determination of colonel Nichols and the other commissioners.* Besides, the state of affairs with New-Haven was neither comfortable nor safe.

In these circumstances, the legislature viewed it as a point of capital importance to conciliate the commissioners, and obtain the good graces of his majesty. For this purpose, they ordered a present of five hundred bushels of corn, to be made to the king's commissioners. A large committee was'appointed to settle the boundaries between Connecticut and the duke of York. A committee, consisting of Mr. Allen, Mr. Wyllys, Mr. Talcott, and Mr. Newbury, was also appointed to settle the boundary line between this colony and Massachusetts, and between Connecticut and Rhode-Island. They were instructed not to give away any part of the lands, included within the limits of the charter.

Mr. Sherman, Mr. Allen, and the secretary, wereauthoriscd to proceed to New-Haven, and, by order of the general assembly, " in his majesty's name, to require the inhabitants of New-Haven, Milford, Branford, Guilford, and Stamford, to submit to the government established by his majesty's gracious grant to this colony, and to receive their answer." They had instructions to declare all the freemen, in those towns, free of the corporation of Connecticut ; and to make all others, in the respective towns men* No. XV.

tioned, qualified according to law, freemen of Connecticut. Book I. At the same time, they were directed to administer to them -wx-n/-^/ the freeman's oath. 1GC4.

Besides, they were authorised to make declaration, that the assembly did invest William Leet and William Jones, Esquires, Mr. Gilbert, Mr. Fenn, Mr. Crane, Mr. Treat, and Mr. Law, with the powers of magistracy ; to govern their respective plantations agreeably to the laws of Connecticut, or such of their own laws, as were not inconsistent with the charter, until their session in May next. It was proclaimed also, that all other officers, civil and military, were established in their respective places; and that cognizance should not be taken of any case which had been prosecuted, to a final adjudication, in any of the courts of that colony.*

The gentlemen appointed to this service, on the 19th of November, went to New-Haven, and proceeded according to their instructions.

About the same time, Governor Winthrop, Mr. Allen, Mr. Gould, Mr. Richards, and John Winthrop, the committee appointed to settle the boundaries between Connecticut and New-York, waited on the commissioners upon York Island. After they had been fully heard, in behalf of Connecticut, the commissioners determined, " That Determithe southern bounds of his majesty's colony of Connecticut, is the sea; and that Long-Island is to be under the government of his royal highness, the duke of York, as is expressed by plain words in the said patents respectively. Not. 30th. We also order and declare, that the creek or river called Mamaronock, which is reputed to be about twelve miles to the east of West-Chester, and a line drawn from the east

Eoint or side, where the fresh water falls into the salt, at igh water mark, north-north-west, to the line of Massachusetts, be the western bounds of the said colony of Connecticut ; and the plantations lying westward of that creek, and line so drawn, to be under his royal highness's government; and all plantations lying eastward of that creek and line, to be under the government of Connecticut.!

In consequence of the acts of Connecticut, and the de- Generat termination of the commissioners, relative to the bounda- c^^ ries of the colony, a general court was called at New-Ha- vent D^ ven, with the freemen, and as many of the inhabitants of isih. the colony as chose to attend, on the 13th of December, 1664. The following resolutions were then unanimously passed.

1. " That, by this act or vote, we be not understood tq » Records of Connecticut. + No. XVI.

Book I. justify Connecticut's former actings, nor any thing disor*^~v^t"derly done by their own people, on such accounts."

1<3G4. 2. "That, by it, we be not apprehended to have any Resolves hand in breaking or dissolving the confederation." 01 the 3. " Yet, in loyalty to the king's majesty, when an au

thentic copy of the determination of his majesty's commissioners is published, to be recorded with us, if thereby it shall appear to our committee, that we are, by his majesty's authority, now put under Connecticut patent, we shall submit, by a necessity brought upon us, by the means of Connecticut aforesaid; but with a salvo jure of our former rights and claims, as a people, who havo not yet been heard in point of plea."*

The members of the court, then present, the elders of the colony, with Mr. John Nash, Mr. James Bishop, Mr. Francis Bell, Mr. Robert Treat, and Mr. Richard Baldwin, were appointed a committee to consummate an union between the colonies.

Several letters passed between the committees of the two colonies, on the subject, in which the committee of New-Haven signified, that the officers in that colony would continue to act in their respective offices, and expressed their good designs and wishes towards Connecticut, and . their loyalty to his majesty. They also represented their expectations, that the governor and company, according * to their engagements, would give them all the advantages and privileges which they could dor consistent with the patent, and their desires still to continue the confederation.! The committee of Connecticut, in answer to New-Haven, assured them of their willingness to bestow on them all the privileges granted in their charter, prepared ready to their hands. They acquainted them, that provision had been made for the continuance of the confederation, according to their wishes. They pleaded the necessity and importance of their incorporation with Connecticut, as they were nearly in the centre of the colony, as an apology for the measures which they liad taken. They expressed their strong desires that Nfew-Haven would cordially unite with them, and, by no means, view it as a matter of constraint: that mutual candour might be exercised; and that all reflections and past conduct, disagreeable to either of them, be entirely buried and for ever forgotten.J Session of The general assembly of Connecticut appointed no comassemhiy, miltce to meet with that chosen by the general court of i' 2°('1' New-Haven. Of this their committee complain, in their

» Records of New-Haven. t No. XVII.

4 Letter of Connecticut to New-Haven, No. XVIII.

L

last letter.* However, at a session of theirs, the 20lh of Book I. April, 1665, they passed several resolves, for the further v^-v-^/ completion of the union. . 1665.

It was resolved, that William Leet and William Jones, RosoiuEsquires, Mr. Benjamin Fenn, Mr, Matthew Gilbert, Mr. tions.reJasper Crane, Mr. Alexander Bryan, Mr. Law, and Mr. ^w-'"8 Robert Treat, should stand in the nomination for magis- Haven, trates at the next election.

The assembly, also, passed the following declaration : " That all acts of the authority of New-Haven, which had been uncomfortable to Connecticut, should never be called to an account, but be buried in perpetual oblivion."t

The king's commissioners presented the following pro- His mnjrsposilions, or requisitions, from his majesty, to this assem- ty's requi, bly. Mtions

1. "That all householders, inhabiting this colony, take the oath of allegiance, and that the administration of justice be in his majesty's name."

2. " That all men of competent estates and of civil conversation, though of different judgments, may be admitted to be freemen, and have liberty to choose, or to be chosen officers, both military and civil."

3. "That all persons, of civil lives, may freely enjoy the liberty of their consciences, and the worship of God in that way which they think best; provided that this liberty tend not to the disturbance of the public, nor to the hindrance of the maintenance of ministers, regularly cjiosen, yi each respective parish or township."

4. " That all laws, and expressions in laws, derogatory to his majesty, if any such have been made, in these troublesome times, may be repealed, altered, and taken off the file."

- The assembly answered in the manner following.

1. " That according to his majesty's pleasure, expressed The anin our charter, our governor formerly appointed meet pei-8*rerto sons to administer the oath of allegiance, who have, ac- em< cording to their order, administered the said oath to several persons already; and the administration of justice among us hath been, is, and shall be, in his majesty's name."

2. " That our order for the admission of freemen is consonant with that proposition."

3. "We know not of any one that hath been troubled, by us, for attending his conscience, provided he hath not disturbed the public."

4. " We know not of any law, or expressions of law,

* No. XIX. t Records of Connecticut,

Book I. that are derogatory to his majesty among us; but if any v^-x/-<w such be found, we count it our duty to repeal, alter, and 1665. take them off the file; and this we attended, upon the receipt of our charter."

About this time, it seems, the council gave the follow

ing answer, for substance, to the commissioners, relative to

ton's peti- the claim and petition of the duke of Hamilton : That the lion. grant of Connecticut to the nobles and gentlemen, of whom they purchased, was several years prior to the marquis of Hamilton's : That with great difficulty they had conquered a potent and barbarous people, who spread over a great part of that tract of country, which he claimed; and that it was but a small compensation, for the blood and treasure which they had expended in conquering it, and defending it for his majesty's interest against the Dutch and other foreigners : That they had peaceably enjoyed that tract for about thirty years : That they had with great labor and expense cultivated the lands, to their own and his majesty's interest j and that his majesty, of his grace, had been pleased to confirm it to them, by his royal charter, in which these reasons had been recognized.*

They at the same time, solicited their honors, the commissioners, to present their humble acknowledgments to his majesty for his abundant grace, in the granting of their charter, and for his gracious letter, sent them by his commissioners, re-ratifying their privileges, civil and ecclesiastical.

At the general election, May 11th, 1665, when the two colonies of Connecticut and New-Haven united in one, the following gentlemen were chosen into office. John Winthrop, Esfj- was elected governor, John Mason, Esq. deputy governor, and Matthew Allen, Samuel Wyllys, Nathan Gould, John Talcott, Henry Wolcott, John Allen, Samuel Sherman, James Richards, William Leet, William Jones, Benjamin Fenn, and Jasper Crane, Esquires, magistrates. John Talcott, Esq. was treasurer, and Daniel Clark secretary.

A proportionable number of the magistrates were of the former colony of New-Haven ; all the towns sent their deputies ; and the assembly appears to have been entirely harmonious.

This assembly enacted, that Hastings and Rye should be pne plantation, by the name of Rye.

By this assembly county courts were first instituted, by

Election,
May 11th

County

teS! t^iat name- It was enacted, that there should be two counM*y nth. ty courts holden annually, in New-Haven ; one on the sep

ontl Thursday in June, the other on the third Thursday in Book I. November. The court was to consist of five judges, twovx-N^-w magistrates, and three justices of the quorum. A similar 1665. court was appointed at New-London; . nd, the next October, that was made a distinct county.

At the session in October, a county court was appointed, at Hartford, instead of the quarterly courts. This was to be holden annually in the months of March and September. The county courts had cognizance of all cases except those of life, limb, or banishment. Incases of more than twenty shillings, the law required that a jury should be impannelled.

At the same time, a superior court was appointed to be Superior holden, at Hartford, the Tuesday before the session ofthe""rtl"' general assembly in May and October. This was to con- Qct ^. sist of eight magistrates, at least, and always to be attended with a jury. In this court were tried all appeals from the several county courts, and all capital actions, of life, limb, and banishment.

All the towns, formerly under the jurisdiction of New- Branford Haven, were satisfied with the union of the colonies, ex- !1Sat,'^ cept Branford. But Mr. Pierson and almost his whole church and congregation were so displeased, that they soon removed into Newark, in New-Jersey. They carried off the records of the church and town, and after it had been settled about five and twenty years, left it almost without inhabitants. For more than twenty years from that time, there was not a church formed in the town. People, from various parts of the colony, gradually moved into it, and purchased the lands of the first planters, so that, in about twenty years, it became re-settled. In 1685, it was re-invested with town privileges.

The union of the colonies was a happy event. It great-

ly contributed to the convenience, strength, peace, and ion a hapwelfare of the inhabitants of both, and of their posterity, py eventGreater privileges New-Haven could not have enjoyed, had they been successful in their applications to his majesty. This must have been v*ery expensive, and after much expense, they might have failed in their attempts and lost their liberties, or have been joined to Connecticut at Jast. Had they remained a distinct colony, the charges of government would have been greater than in their state of incorporation. Their situation, in so central a part of the colony, would have been extremely inconvenient, especially for Connecticut. It was, doubtless, his majesty's pleasure, and for his interest, that the colonies should bo 4>nc 5 and their friends on both sides the water judged it

Book I. most expedient. It was what their own and the general

^r~v^s good demanded. All these circumstances, Connecticut

1605. could plead, as an apology for their conduct. But after

all, it will be difiicir-.t, if not impossible, to reconcile some

parts ofJt, at least, with their pre-engagemenls, the rules

of justice, and brotherly affection.

War was proclaimed, this year, in London, in the month of March, between England and Holland. His majesty had given intelligence to the colony, that De Ruyter, the Dutch admiral, had orders to visit New-York. The colony was alarmed, and put into a state of defence. But the admiral was diverted from the enterprise, and the year passed in peace.

In the proclamation for thanksgiving, in November, the people were excited to praise the Supreme Benefactor, for preventing the troubles which they had feared, and for the blessings of liberty, health, peace, and plenty.*

CHAPTER XIII.

A view of the churches of Connecticut and New-Haven, from their first settlement, until their union, in 1665. Their ministers. The character of the ministers and first planters. Their religious and political sentiments. Gathering of the churches of New-Haven and Milford. Installation of Mr. Davenport and Mr. Prudden. Church formed at Guilford. Number of ministers in Connecticut and New-Haven, before the union. Proportion of ministers to the people, before and at the time of the union. Harmony between the civil rulers and the clergy. Influence of the clergy, and the reasons of it. Their opposition to Antinomianism. Assisted in the compilation of Cambridge Platform. Ecclesiastical laws. Care to diffuse general knowledge; its happy influence. Attempts to found a college at New-Haven. No sectaries in Connecticut nor New-Haven, until after the union. Deaths and characters of several of the first ministers. Great dissensions in the church at Hartford, soon after Mr. Hooker''s death ; -dissensions and controversies in the colony, and churches in general, relative to baptism, church

* It was now thirty years since the settlement of the colony commenced, yet, after the defalcation of Long-Island, it consisted of nineteen towns only, which paid taxes. The grand list was no more than £l53,CiO: 16:5.

membership, and the rights of the brethren. A new gen- Book I. eration arises, who had not all imbibed the spirit of their v_^~ fathers. Grievances presented to the general court of Connecticut, on the account of the strictness of the churches, and that sober people were denied communion with them, and baptism for their children. The court of Connecticut send to the other general courts for advice. Laws against the Quakers. Massachusetts and Connecticut agree in appointing a synod at Boston. General court at New-Haven oppose the meeting of a synod, and decline sending their elders. Questions proposed for discussion. The synod meets and answers them ; but it liad no good effect on the churches. They would not comply with their decisions. Dissensions continued at Hartford ; acts of the general court respecting them. Councils from Massachusetts. Difficulties in some measure composed. Divisions and animosities at Weathersfield. Act of the general court respecting the church there. Mr. Russel and numbers remove from Weathersfield and Hartford, and settle Hadley. Mr. Stow dismissed from the ministry at Middle-town, by a committee of the general court. Synod at Boston. Its determination relative to baptism and the consociation of churches. Division in the synod, and in the churches, relative to these points. The court at Connecticut sent no elders to the council, nor took any part in the controversy, until some time afterwards.

ONNECTICUT, no less than other parts of New-England, was settled with a particular view to religion. It was the design of the first planters, to erect churches in the strictest conformity to scripture example ; and to transrait evangelical purity, in doctrine, worship, and discipline, with civil and religious liberty, to their posterity. The attention which they paid to these interesting points, will be the principal subject of this chapter.

The first churches, though their numbers were small, fjTM' m'n" and they had to combat all the hardships, dangers, and ex- connectipense, of new settlements, commonly supported two able, cut and experienced ministers. With the first three churches, set- New-Hatlcd in Connecticut, there were, at Hartford, the Rev. Mr. ven> Hooker and Mr. Stone, at Windsor, Mr. Warham and Mr. Hewet, and at Weathersfield, Mr. Prudden, in 1638, while his people were making preparations to remove from NewHaven to Milford. To the garrison, at Saybrook fort, Mr. John Higginson, son of the Rev. Mr. Higginson, of Salem, preached three or four of the first years. At New-Haven^ at first were Mr. Davenport and Mr. Samuel Eaton, broth

Book I. er to govcrhor Eaton. At Milford, Mr. Pruddeu was pasN^-v^x tor, and the church invited Mr. John Sherman, afterward* minister of Watcrtown, in Massachusetts, to be their teacher ; but he declined their invitation, and that church never had but one settled minister at the same time. The Rev. Mr. Whitfield was pastor of the church at Guilford, and about the year 1641, Mr. Higginson removed from Saybrook, and became teacher, as an assistant to Mr. Whitiield, in that church. After Mr. Prudden left Weathersfield, Mr. Henry Smith was elected, and ordained pastor of the church and congregation in that town. About the time that Mr. Higginson left Saybrook, the Rev. Mr. Thomas Peters became chaplain to colonel Fenwick, and the people there. Upon the removal of Mr. Eaton, from — New-Haven, Mr. William Hook was installed teacher, as an asssistant of Mr. Davenport. The six first towns in Connecticut and New-Haven, enjoyed the constant labor often able ministers. This was as much as one minister to about fifty families, or to two hundred and sixty or seventy souls. As other towns settled, churches were gathered, and ministers installed or ordained. Mr. Jones was chosen pastor at Fairfield, Mr. Adam Blackman, at Stratford, and Mr. Richard Denton, at Stamford. Mr. Abraham Pierson was pastor of the church at Branford, and it seems one Mr. Brucy assisted him as a teacher for some time. Fourteen or fifteen of these ministers had been episcopally ordained in England, before they came into America.

The Rev. Mr. Richard Blynman, first pastor of the church at New-London, was also ordained in England. After he came into this country, he settled first, pastor of the church at Gloucester, in Massachusetts. From thence he removed to New-London in 1648.

From these reverend fathers, the ministers of Connecticut trace their ordinations ; especially, from Mr. Hooker, Mr. Warham, Mr. Davenport, and Mr. Stone. Some or other of these assisted in gathering the churches, and ordaining the ministers settled in their day.

Thcit- reli- With respect to their religious sentiments, and those of giou?senti- tncir followers, they were puritans. This was a name which first obtained in the reign of queen Elizabeth, in 1564. It was given as a name of reproach, to distinguish and stigmatize those who did not conform to the liturgy, ceremonies, and discipline, of the church of England. Fuller says, " it was improved to abuse pious people, who endeavoured to follow the minister with a pure heart, and. labored for a life pure and holy."* When armiuianisna be* Fuller's ccclcti^stical history, b. IX, p. 76.

gan to prevail, in the latter part of the reign of James the Book I. first, those who were calvinistic, were termed doctrinal pu- v^>/-^ / ritans.t It was used finally, as a stigma for all christians, who were strict in morals, calvinistic in sentiment, and unconformed to the liturgy, ceremonies, and discipline of the established church.J

This was truly the character of the first ministers and churches in this colony. They were strictly calvinistic, agreeing in doctrine with their brethren of the established church, and with all the protestant reformed churches. In discipline, they were congregationalists, and dissented from the national establishment. They firmly believed, that it was the sole prerogative of Christ, as king in Zion, to direct the mode of worship and discipline, in his own house. They were persuaded, that the scriptures were a perfect rule, not only of faith and manners, but of worship and discipline : and that all churches ought to be formed entirely after the pattern exhibited in the New Testament.

Some of the ministers of Connecticut were distinguished Literalnre for literature, piety, and ministerial gifts. Mr. Hooker,and moral* Mr. Davenport, Mr. Stone, and some others, were men of great learning and abilities. They were all men of the strictest morals, serious, experimental preachers. Mr. Neal, after giving a catalogue of the ministers, who first illuminated the churches of New-England, bears this testi- , mony concerning them. " I will not say that all the ministers mentioned, were men of the first rate for learning, but I can assure the reader, they had a better share of it, than most of their neighbouring clergy, at that time : they were men of great sobriety and virtue, plain, serious, affectionate preachers, exactly conformable to the doctrine of the church of England, and took a great deal of pains to promote a reformation of manners in their several parishes." They were mighty, and abundant in prayer. They not only fasted and prayed frequently with their people, in public, but kept many days of secret fasting, prayer, andj self-examination, in their studies. Some of them, it seems, prayers fasted and prayed, in this private manner, every week. Besides the exercise.s on the Lord's day, they preached ' lectures, not only in public, but from house to house. They were diligent and laborious in catechising and instructing the children, and young people,. both in public and private.

They paid a constant attention to the religion of their

+ Fuller, b. X, p. 100.

J Neal'i history of the puritans, preface to vol. I, p. 7, and vol. 1, p. 72. Second eriitioi, quarto, ^onJon. 1754.

Book I. families. They read the scriptures, and prayed in them v_*-xr->^ daily, morning and evening, and instructed all their domest tics constantly to attend the secret, as well as private and

public duties of religion. They were attentive to the religious state of all the families and individuals of their respective flocks.* As they had taken up the cross, forsaken their pleasant seats and enjoyments in their native country, and followed their Saviour into a land not sown, for the sake of his holy religion, and the advancement of his kingdom, they sacrificed all worldly interests to these glorious purposes.

The people who followed them into the wilderness, were their spiritual children, who imbibed the same spirit and sentiments, and esteemed them as their fathers in Christ. <jencrat Many of them were men of figure, as Haynes, Hopkins, and'mor^h Wyllys, Ludlow, Wokott, Eaton, Gregson, Desborough, oi.tlm Leet, and others, who were governors and magistrates in people. their respective colonies. Many of them, especially their governors, magistrates, and leading men, were not less pious and exemplary than their ministers. The people in general were pious, and strictly moral. Instances of intemperance, wantonness, sabbath-breaking, fraud, or any other gross immorality, for many years, were rarely found among them. If any there were, they were commonly found among servants, or some of the lowest of the people. 1Thec'r *cn~ It was the opinion of the principal divines, who first setlative <o tlcd New-England and Connecticut, that in every church, churches, completely organized, there was a pastor, teacher, ruling church of- clder, and deacons.t These distinct offices, they iinaeiiv

tircrs and j i i i_. .' n .

discipline, ed, were clearly taught in those passages, Romans, xn, /, 1 Corinth, xii, 20, 1 Timothy, v, 17T and Ephesians, iv, 11. From these they argued the duty of all churches, which were able, to be thus furnished.}: In this manner were the churches of Hartford, "Windsor, New-Haven, and other towns organized* The churches which were notable to support a pastor and teacher, had their ruling elders and deacons. Their ruling elders were ordained with no less solcmity, than their pastors and teachers. Where no teacher could be obtained, the pastor performed the duties, both of pastor and teacher. It was the general opinion, that the pastor's work consisted principally in exhortation, in. working upon the will and affections. To this the whole force of his studies was to be directed ; that, by his judicious, powerful, and affectionate addresses, he might win Book I. his hearers to the love and practice of the truth. But the v^~v-v teacher was doctor in ecciesia, whose business it was to teach, explain, and defend, the doctrines of christianity. , lie was to inform the judgment, and advance the work of illumination.*

* See au account of the live* of many of them, in thd Magnalia, b. 1H. Particular tracts and manuscripts characterize them in the same manner. + Hooker's Survey, part II, p. 4 to 20. - Ibidem, ajul Cambridge Platform, chap, vi, and vji.

The business of the ruling elder %vas to assist the pastor jn the government of the church. He was particularly set apart to watch over all its members ; to prepare and bring , forward all cases of discipline; to visit and pray with the sick; and, in the absence of the pastor and teacher, to pray with the congregation, and expound the scriptures.t

The pastors and churches of New-England maintained, with the reformed churches in general, that bishops and presbyters were only different names for the same oftice ; and, that all pastors, regularly separated to the gospel ministry, were scripture bishops.}: They also insisted, agreeably to- the primitive practice, that the work of every pastor, was confined, principally, to one particular church and congregation, who could all assemble at one place, whom he could inspect, and who could all unite together in acts of worship and discipline.§ Indeed, the hrst ministers of Connecticut and New-England, at first * maintained, that all the pastor's office power was confined to his own church and congregation ; and that the administering of baptism and the Lord's supper in other churches, was irregular.IT

With respect to ordination, they held, that it did not con- Calling stitutethe essentials of the ministerial office; but the qual-and,ordiifications for office, the election of the church, guided b the rule of Christ, and the acceptance of the pastor elect.** Says Mr. Hooker, " ordination is an approbation of the officer, and solemn setting aqd confirmation of him in his office, by prayer, and laying on of hands." It was viewed, by the ministers of New-England, as no more than putting the pastor elect into office, or a solemn, recommending of him and his labors to the blessing of God. It was the general opinion, that elders ought to lay on hands in ordination, if there were a presbytery in the church, but if there were not, the church might appoint some other elders, or a number of the brethren to that service.tt

* Survey, part II, p. 19,20, 21, and Cambridge Platform, chap. vi.

t Hooker's Survey, part II,p. 13, 19, C. Plat. chap. vu.

| Hooker's Survey, and Cambridge Platform.

Cambridge Platform, chap iii, and chap. iz.

T Hooker's Survey, part II, p. 62, 68.

** The same, part II, p. 75, 78, Cam. Platform, chap. ii.

ft These sentiments were not peculiar to the first ministers and church**

« PreviousContinue »Book I. It was acknowledged that synods or general councils, v-x-x^->^ were an ordinance of Christ, and in some cases, expedient Power of and necessary: That their business was to give light and synods. counsel in weighty concerns, and bear testimony against corruption in doctrines and morals. While it was granted, that their determinations ought to be received with reverence, and not tobe counteracted, unless apparently repugnant to the scriptures, it was insisted, that they had no juridical power.t The churches of Connecticut originally maintained, that the right of choosing and settling their ministers, of exercising discipline and performing all juridical acts was in the church, when properly organized ; and they denied all external or foreign power of presbyteries, synods, general councils, or assemblies. Hence they were termed congregational churches.

As to prt- The fathers of Connecticut, as to politics, were rcpub

fiict, the licans. They rejected with abborrence the doctrines of

first set- the divine right of kings, passive obedience, and non-re

rtpubH- sistance. With Sidney, Hampden, and other great wri

can*. ters, they believed that all civil power and government was

originally in the people. Upon these principles they

formed their civil constitutions.

Confession The churches of New-Haven, Milford, and Guilford, of faith were formed first, by the choice of seven persons, from axnannero? mong the brethren, who were termed the pillars. A concovenaot- fession of faith was drawn up, to which they all assented, as >ng. preparatory to their covenanting together in church estate.

They then entered into covenant, first with God, to be his people in Christ, and then with each other, to walk together in the strict and conscientious practice of all christian duties, and in the enjoyment of all the ordinances and privileges of a church ol Christ. The confessions of faith contained a summary of christian doctrine, and were strictly calvinistic. The covenants were full, solemn, and impressive,, importing, that they avouched the Lord Jehovah, Father, Son, and Holy Ghost, to be their sovereign Lord and supreme Good; and that they gave themselves up to him, through Jesus Christ, in the way and on the terms of the covenant of grace. They covenanted with each other to uphold the divine worship and ordinances, in the churches of which they were members; to watch over each other as brethren ; to bear testimony against all sin ; and to teach all under their care to fear and serve the Lord. The other brethren joined themselves to the seven pillars, by making the same profession of faith, and covenanting in the Book I. same manner. The members, previously to their cove-v^-\s-w nanting with each other, gave one another satisfaction with respect to their repentance, faith, and purposes of holy living.

of New-England. Augustine, Chrysoatom, Zancli, Bucer, Melancthoo. Dr. Ames, Dr. Owen, and many other divines of great fame, were of tjie game opinion t Hooker's Survey, part IV. p. 45-^8. C. Plat. chap. XVI.

It appears, that the churches of New-Haven and Mil-Churches ford were gathered to the seven pillars, on the 22d of Au- ?[Newgust, 1639.* The tradition is, that soon after, Mr. Da- Milford, venport was chosen pastor of the church, at New-Haven ; gathered and that Mr. Hooker and Mr. Stone came and assisted in Au§- 22dt his installation. J"K).

Mr. Prudden was installed pastor of the church, at Mil- Installaford, April 8th, 1640, upon a day of solemn fasting andtion of Mr. prayer. Imposition of hands was performed by Zechari- ^H ah Whitman, William Fowler, and Edmond Tapp. They 1340. were appointed to this service by the other brethren of the church.t The installation was at New-Haven, and it seems that the hands of the brethren were imposed in the presence of Mr. Davenport and Mr. Eaton.

Though the members of Mr. Whitfield's church were in Guilford the original agreement, at New-Haven, and engaged to ch"ch embody into church estate, in the same manner as New- April"1 ' Haven and Milford churches did, yet they delayed the com-1643. pletion of the work for a considerable time. Probably, it was because their company were not yet all arrived. But in April, 1643, Mr. Whitfield, Mr. Higginson, Mr. Samuel Desborough, Mr. William Leet, Mr. Jacob Sheaf, Mr. John Mipham, and Mr. John Hoadly, were elected the seven pillars. On the 19th of June, all the other church ; members were gathered unto these seven persons. Mr. Higginson, who had been preaching about two years at , Gnilford, with Mr. Whitfield, was, at this time, elected teacher in that church. Mr. Whitfield had not separated from the episcopal church, when he came into New-England. As he came over in orders, and his church came generally with him, there are no intimations of his installation.

The circumstance of the seven pillars in these three churches appears to have been peculiar to them. There are no intimations of it in the formation of any other churches. The churches in the other towns were gathered, bysubscribing similar confessions of faith, and covenanting together in the same solemn manner, upon days of fasting and prayer. Neighbouring elders and churches were present on those occasions, assisted in the public solemni- > ties, and gave their consent. When new members wcrr '~ Milford church records. t Ibidem.

Book I

Mr. Denton removes from

Stamford. Mr. Bishop succeeds him.

Church gathered and Mr. Fitch ordained at Saybrook, 1646.

admitted to full communion, in any of the first churches of 'Connecticut, they gave satisfaction to the brethren of their sincere repentance towards God, and faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. They commonly made a relation of their religious experiences. They were then admitted to full communion, by a public profession of their faith, and by covenanting in the manner which has been represented.

Mr. Eaton continued but a short time at New-Haven, and then returned to England. Mr. William Hook succeeded him as teacher in the church.

Mr. Denton, after spending three or four years at Stamford, re.moved to Hampstead on Long-Island.

Upon his removal, the church sent two of their members to seek them a minister." They travelled on foot, through the wilderness, to the eastward of Boston, where they found Mr. John Bishop, who left England before he had finished his academical studies, and had completed his education in this country. They engaged him to go with them to Stamford. He travelled with them, on foot, so great a distance. The people were united in him, and he labored with them, in the ministry, nearly fifty years."

Mr. Peters, after preaching three or four years, at Saybrook, returned to England, In 1646, a church was formed in that town, by the direction and assistance of the Rev. Mr. Hooker and some other ministers. At the same time, Mr. James Filch, who had perfected his theological studies, under the direction of Mr. Hooker, was ordained their pastor. The tradition is, that though Mr. Hooker was present, yet that hands were imposed by two or three of the principal brethren, whom the church had appointed to that service.

On the 13th of October, 1652, a church was gathered at Farmington, and Mr. Roger Newton was ordained pastor.

The same year, Mr. Thomas Hanford began to preach at Norwalk, and some time after a church was formed in the town, and Mr. Hanford ordained pastor.

In 1660, Mr. Fitch and the greatest part of his church removed to Norwich. Mr. Thomas Buckingham succeeded him in the ministry at Saybrook. A council of ministers and churches assisted at his ordination, but the imposition of hands was performed by the brethren, as it had been before in the ordination of Mr. Fitch. The council considered it as an irregular proceeding, but the brethren were so tenacious of what they esteemed their right, that it could not be prevented without much inconvenience.*

These fifteen churches were the whole number, formed in the colony, and in which ministers had been installed, Book I. or ordained, at the time of the union. The settlements \^v-*»r and churches upon Long-Island had been adjudged to the jurisdiction of New-York. There were several other towns which paid taxes, where churches wore not formed nor pastors ordained. This was the case with Stonington, Middletown, Greenwich, and Rye. Nevertheless, at the two former, there was coastant preaching. The general court would not suffer any plantation to be made which would not support an able, orthodox preacher.

* Manuscripts from Saybrook,

At Stonington, Mr. Zechariah Brigden officiated about three years, until his death in 1663. To him succeeded Mr. James Noyes, the same year, who preached more than fifty-five years in the town, but he was not ordained until more than ten years after his first preaching to the people.

At Middletown, Mr. Nathaniel Collins was preaching, but not ordained. Mr. Stow also preached there, before, or with, Mr. Collins. Greenwich and Rye were but just come under the jurisdiction of Connecticut, and not in circumstances for the support of ministers. They had occasional preaching only, for a considerable time.

From this view, it appears, that the first towns and Proportion churches in Connecticut were remarkably instructed.of min'*

f., . * iTM t 1 . Iii *«- «* *U

Scarcely in any part of the Christian church, have so many
stars, of such distinguished lustre, shone in so small a
firmament. At the time of the union, the colony contained
about 1700 families, eight or nine thousand inhabitants, -
and they constantly enjoyed the instructions of about twen-
ty ministers. Upon an average, there was as much as
one minister to every eighty-five families, or to about four
hundred and thirty souls. In some of the new plantations,
thirty families supported a minister, and commonly there
were not more than forty when they called and settled a
pastor. In several of the first churches, there were not
more than eight, nine, and ten male members. Exclusive
of Hartford, Windsor, New-Haven, and Guilford, there
appears to have been none, in which there were more than
sixteen or seventeen male communicants, at their forma-
tion.

That the first churches and congregations, notwithstand- Word and ing their poverty, hardships, dangers, and expense in set- ordinances tling in a wilderness, and in defending themselves against the savages and other enemies, should maintain such a number of ministers, strongly marks their character as Christians, who desired the sincere milk of the word. It affords a strikjng evidence of their zeal for religion, and

Book f. that the word and ordinances were indeed precious in those

Harmony The most perfect harmony subsisted between the legis-i between lature and the clergy. Like Moses and Aaron, they walkture and*"c<^ together in the most endearing friendship. The goverclergy. nors, magistrates, and leading men, were their spiritual children, and esteemed and venerated them, as their fathers in Christ. As they had loved and followed them into the wilderness, they zealously supported their influence. , The clergy had the highest veneration for them, and spared no pains to maintain their authority and government. Thus they grew in each other's esteem and brotherly affection, and mutually supported and increased each other's influence and usefulness.

Influence Many of the clergy who first came into the country, had ofthe cler- gOQCj estates, and assisted their poor brethren and parishioners in their straits, in making new settlements. The people were then far more dependent on their ministers, J*8*°11* than they have been since. The proportion of learned men was much less then, than at the present time. The clergy possessed a very great proportion of the literature of the colony. They were the principal instructors of the young gentlemen, who were liberally educated, before they commenced members of college, and they assisted them in their studies afterwards. They instructed and furnished others for public usefulness, who had not a public education. They had given a striking evidence of their integrity and self denial, in emigrating into this rough and distant country, for the sake of religion, and were faithful and abundant in their labours. By their example, counsels, exhortations, and money, they assisted and encouraged the people. Besides, the people who came into the country with them, had a high relish for the word and ordinances. They were exiles and fellow sufferers in a strange land. All these circumstances combined to give them an uncommon influence over their hearers, of all ranks and characters. For many years, they were consulted by the legislature, in all affairs of importance, civil or religious. They were appointed committees, with the governors and magistrates, to advise, make drafts, and assist them in the most delicate and interesting concerns of the commonwealth. In no government have the clergy had more influence, or ofCon"* ^en treatc(l W!ln more generosity and respect, by the civil necticut rulers and people in general, than in Connecticut, condemn The ministers and churches of Connecticut abhorred the fi<ls"°TM'" Antinomian heresy, which so distracted the church at Bos1638?''" ton, and £ome others in the Massachusetts. In the first

general council in .New-England, Mr. Hooker and Mr. Da- Book I. venport bore a noble testimony against the prevailing .^-v-^/ errors and spirit of that time.

In the next general council in New-England, ten years 1648. after, the ministers and churches of Connecticut and New- Jhe"^~ t Haven were present, and united in the form of discipline Q^. °p which it recommended. By this platform of discipline, bridge the churches of New-England, in general, walked for more pla«<,">». than thirty years. This, with the ecclesiastical laws, formed the religious constitution of the colonies.

In the platform, it is declared to be evident, " That ne- Opinion recessary and sufficient maintenance is due to ministers of'P601'"? the word, from the law of nature and nations, the lawoftena'nce"~ Moses, the equity thereof, and also the rule of common of minisreason :" that it is matter of indispensable duty, a debtterSi due, and not an affair of alms or free gift. " That not only v members of churches, but all who are taught in the word, are to contribute unto him that teacheth in all good things : and that the magistrate is to see that the ministry be duly provided for."*

An early provision was therefore made, by law, in Mas- Ecclesiassachusetts and Connecticut, for the support of the minis-tical laws. try. In Connecticut, all persons, were obliged, by law, to contribute to the support of the church, as well as of the commonwealth. All rates respecting the support of ministers, or any ecclesiastical affairs, were to be made and collected in the same manner as the rates of the respective towns.t Special care was taken, that all persons should attend the means of public instruction. The law obliged them to be present at the public worship on the Lord's day, and upon all days of public fasting and prayer, and of . thanksgiving, appointed by civil authority, on penalty of * a fine of five shillings for every instance of neglect.:{ The congregational churches were adopted and established by law; but provision was made that all sober, orthodox persons, dissenting from them, should, upon the manifestation of it to the general court, be allowed peaceably to worship in their own way.§ It was enacted, " That no persons within this colony, shall in any wise embody themselves into church estate, without consent of the general court, and approbation of neighbouring elders." The laws, also, prohibited that any ministry, or church administration, should be entertained, or attended, by the inhabitants of any plantation in the colony, distinct and separate from,

* Cambridge Platform, chap. xi.

t The first code of Connecticut, p. 52 and 59.

± Ibid. p. 22. Hbid. p. 21.

Book T. and in opposition to, that which was openly and publicly

v^-v^ observed and dispensed, by the approved minister of the

place; except it was by the approbation of the court and

v neighbouring churches.* The penalty for every breach

of this act, was five pounds.

The court declared, that the civil authority established in the colony, " Had power and liberty to see the peace, ordinances, and rules of Christ, observed in every church, according to his word; and, also, to deal with any church member in a way of civil justice, notwithstanding any church relation, office, or interest." The law also provided, that no church censure should degrade or depose any man from any civil dignity, office, or authority, which: he should .sustain in the colony.t

In the grant of all new townships, special care was taCare to fan, by the legislature, that the planters should not be iuowiedge without a minister, and the stated administration of gospel and ".i'ii ordinances.

morals. Every town, consisting of fifty families, was obliged, by the laws, to maintain a good school, in which reading and writing should be well taught; and in every county town a good grammar school was instituted. Large tracts of land were given and appropriated, by the legislature, to afford them a permanent'support.

The select men of every town were obliged, by law, to keep a vigilant eye upon all the inhabitants, and to take care that all the heads of families should instruct their children and servants to read the English tongue well, and that once every week they should catechise them in theprinciples of religion. The penalty for every instance of neglect, in this respect, was twenty shillings, for any fam' ily so neglecting. The select men were also authorised, to take care that all families should be well furnished with bibles, orthodox catechisms, and books on practical godliness. It was provided by the legislature, that the capital laws should be taught weekly in every family.!'

The colony of New-Haven, from the beginning, made provision for the interests of religion, learning, and the good conduct of the inhabitants, with no less zeal than Connecticut.

The care and piety of the first planters did not rest here; but they were careful, as soon as possible, in their circumstances, to found public seminaries, in which young men , might be instructed in the liberal arts, prepared for the rpinistry, and all places of importance, in civil or religious Book I. life. v^-v-^x

* The first code of Connecticut, p. 21.