Autograph letter signed from Roger Boyle, Earl of Orrery, to the Commissioners for the Admiralty [manuscript], 1656 April 25.

Edinburgh, 1656 April 25.

1 item (2 leaves) ; 30 x 22 cm (bifolium)

Concerns the need for ships to guard the Scottish coast against pirates, without which "the Customes and Excise here (of consequence) will arise to little or nothing, w[hi]ch will be much more preiudiciall to the Publique then a competent guard for this Coast will be chargeable." Acknowledges the recent arrival of the Nonesuch frigate, but complains that the captain was not directed to observe orders directly from the Scottish council, leaving merchant ships bound for Norway "resolved rather to trust to Providence without a convoy, then any longer expect upon such incertaintyes as hitherto they have bin under." Requests that the Commissioners of the Navy and Admiralty send updated directions to the captain "either to observe the Councills or the Generalls orders, or that you yo[u]rselves will send him direcc[i]ons to Convoy such ffleetes of, or trading in, this Countrey."

Embossed (Lion Rampant on Scottish Saltire), with traces of red wax seal.

With integral address leaf: For the Honoble the Comrs for the Admiralty and Navy of England - these. Att White-Hall.

Acquired from Samuel Gedge, 2012-11-13.

Great Britain -- Scotland -- Edinburgh.

X.c.155

267622