England's great interest, by encouraging the setting up the royal fishery within the British seas With some political observations out of divers authors; treating of the manifold advantages by sea and land, from the fishing trade. As also, an impartial account of the proceedings of the corporation to this time. Published by approbation and allowance of the Company of the Royal Fishery of England. For encouraging the people of these nations, &c. to improve the advantages therof, under the countenance and privilege granted to the Company and their successors, by his late Majesty King Charles II. in letters patents under the Great Seal of England; bearing date 25th day of September, in the 29th year of his said Majesty's reign.

CHAP. VI.

That Holland lies very Commodiously to fetch its Provisions out of the Sea, and to Provide for its Maintenance by other Arts and Expedients; and how great a means of Subsistance the Fishery may tend to us.

TO procure its Food out of the Sea, which is common to all Men, Holland is very well situate; not only on a Sea a∣bounding with great store of Fish near the Dogger-Sand, where Haddock, Cod, and Ling, may in great abundance be taken and salted: But also, near the Herring Fishery, which is no where else but on the Coast of Great Britain, viz. from St. Johns to St. James's, about Hitland, Phagril and Bohennes in the deep Waters, Eastward of Yarmouth. And this Herring Fishing, now of Two hundred years standing, since William Benkelson learned first to Gill, Salt, and Pack them up in Casks, with the Cod Fishery, is be∣come so effectual a means of Subsistance for these Lands, (especi∣ally since so many Neighbouring People, by reason of their Reli∣gion, are obliged upon certain Days and Weeks of the Year, whol∣ly to refrain eating of Flesh) That the Hollanders do only Fish in a time of Peace with more than One thousand Busses, from Four and twenty to Thirty Lasts burthen each: and with One hun∣dred and seaventy small Vessels Fish for Herrings, within the en∣trance of Texell. So that those Thousand Ships being set to Sea for a Year, wherein they make Three Voyages, do cost above Ten millions of Gilders, accounting only the Buss with its Tackle at Four thousand five hundred and fifty Gilders; and the setting forth to Sea, Five thousand five hundred Gilders; there remain∣ing nothing of all its Preparation the Second Year, but the bare Vessel; and that much worne and torne, and needing great Pre∣paration.

If these Thousand Busses do take yearly at least Forty thou∣sand Lasts of Herrings, counting them worth Two hundred Gilders the Last, they will produce to Holland more than Eight millions of Gilders.

And seeing People have begun of late to make use of Whale-Oyl and Whale-Finns, and that they are taken to the Northward, not far from us, so that we by Southerly Winds can Sail thither in Six or Eight days, the Trade of Fisheries and Salt may easily be settled and fixed to us; or, as it were intailed to our Countrey, For to fix these Fisheries and many Manufactures, and consequent∣ly the Trade and Returns of them, depending upon the Naviga∣tion and Freighting of Ships; we must well consider, that the greatest difficulty to inable so innumerable a number of People to subsist of its own bottom, is the powerfullest means to draw all Foreign Wares into Holland: Not only to store them up there, and afterwards to send them up the Countries through the Mase, Waal, Yssel and the Rhyne, (making together one River) to numerous Towns and People lying on the side of them, (the most conside∣rable in the World, for the Consumption of Goods) but also, to consume the said Imported Goods, or to have them wrought up at home. It being well known, that no Countrey in the World, of so small a Compass, has so many People and Master-workmen as we have. And besides this,

Hereunto may be added, That no Countrey in the World, is so wonderfully trench'd or cut through for Navigable Rivers, whereby all Merchandize may be carried to and fro, with so little charge.

Emanuel Van Materan, in his History says,

That in Three days time, Anno 1601. There Sailed out of Holland to the East∣ward, Eight or Nine hundred Ships, and Fifteen hundred Busses, on Herring Fishing.

And, that Fishing is such, if that may be credited which the English Authors have written, [viz. Gerard Malines in his Lex Mercatoria, and Sir Walter Rawleigh, and which Lieven Van Aitzma, Anno 1653. p. 863. seems, in some measure to confirm] viz.

That there are yearly taken and spent by the Hollanders, above Three hundred thousand Lasts of Herrings, and other salted Fish:

And, That the Whale Fishing takes up above Twelve thousand Men, which Sail out of these Countries. For since the Greenland Company is Dissolved, and the Whale Fishing set open for all Men, that Fishing is increased from One to Ten; So that we compute, that all these Fishing Vessels are Built here; the Ropes, Sails, Nets, and Casks made here and provided with Salt: One may easily imagine, that there must be an incredible number of People that maintain themselves thereby; especially when we add thereunto, that all the People have need of Meat,

Drink, Cloathing and Housing; as also, that the Fish when caught, is Transported by the Hollanders, by Shipping, through∣out the whole World.

And indeed, if it be true, that Sir Walter Raleigh affirms, (who made diligent scrutiny thereinto, in the year 1618. whereby to inform King James) That the Hollanders Fished on the Coast of Great Britain, with no less than Three Thousand Ships, and Fif∣ty Thousand Men: And that they employed and set out to Sea, both to Transport and Sell the Fish so taken, and to make returns thereof, Nine thousand Ships more, and One hundred and fifty thousand Men besides. And if we hereunto add what he farther says, viz. That Twenty Busses do maintain Eight thousand Peo∣ple: And that the Hollanders had in all, no less than Twenty thou∣sand Ships at Sea.

As also, That the Fisheries Navigation and Traffick by Sea, with its Dependencies since that time, to the year 1667. is increa∣sed one third more: I say, if it be so, we may then easily conclude, That the Sea is a special means of the Hollanders Subsistance; see∣ing Holland, by this only way, affords by its own Industry, above Three hundred thousand Lasts of Salted Fish taken on board Ships. So that

If we add hereunto the Whale, Oyl and Fins, and our Hol∣land Manufactures; with that which all our Rivers within our Dominions afford us, it must be confessed, That no Countrey in the World can make so many Ships lading of Merchandize out of its self, as Holland alone.

To which the Collector thinks he has the freedom to add, viz.

That the Foundation of all this is, the Fish taken out of the British Seas, belonging to England, &c.

IV. Take a Copy of some farther Considerations, in all humble¦ness propounded to his late Majesty King Charles II. by Dr. Benjamin Worsley, sometime Secretary to the Right Honourable the Lords of his said Majesties Council for Plantations and Trade, &c. which said Copy hath come to the hands of the Publisher, who well knew him to be a Person of great ingenuity and truth; and had spent some years and Hundreds of Pounds, in making him∣self master of this Craft, by his Travels into Holland, &c. wor∣thy the Acceptance of all Persons, who incline to be concerned in the Fishery Affairs. He Asserts,

1. That the least valuation that hath been hitherto generally put upon the Herring Fishing, is, Three millions of Pounds Ster∣ling, per year.

2. That the reasonableness of this valuation may appear, by the number of Busses usually imployed in the said Fishing, which are said to be at least Sixteen hundred; By the quantity of Fish usually caught in each of the said Busses; By the Registries kept of Import and Export of the said Fish in several Custom-houses of Holland and Friezland; And by the known Price that the said Fish usually bears in all Markets.

3. That, according to this valuation, the Fishing alone doth amount to more than Either the whole Manufacture and Com∣modities of England apart; Or the whole Manufacture of France apart; and consequently to more than the whole Plate and An∣nual Production of Spain, considered apart.

4. That the Fishing therefore being added to all the rest of the Manufactures of Holland, (both Woollen and Linnen) and to the greatness of its East India Trade, doth unavoidably cast a Su∣per-ballance upon Holland, more than upon any State of Europe besides: even near to the double, and by this means a Super-ballance also of Stock and Strength at Sea proportionably.

5. That on the other hand, If the scale of the said Fishing may by any means possibly be removed from Holland, and Trans∣ferr'd into any other Nation; the Fishing so Transferr'd shall and must cast near as great an over-ballance of Trade upon that Nation, wherein it is, and as great an advantage of Stock, Commerce and Strength at Sea, as Holland it self now hath.

6. That the Fishing (then) is the very Goal or Prize of Trade, and the very Goal or Prize of the Dominion of the Sea; and that thing Singly, which whosoever gains, makes himself Master of both these: And that very thing, which, whosoever misseth, doth miss of both these.

7. That, If we shall therefore wholly relinquish the said Fish∣ing to the Hollander, with all the Gain and Advantage of it, we shall and must relinquish (of course) to him, both the Superi∣ority of Trade, and the Superiority of the Power at Sea. Yea, we shall and must also deprive our selves of all Capacity for ever, to hinder him in either of these Two: both because of the ex∣treme loss we have had of our Seamen of late; and because we have neither any Moral, or Rational way, or Possibility left us, of recovering the said Loss again, unless by setting upon the said Fishery.

8. That the Herring Fishing, though proper only to His Ma∣jesty's Dominions, and though frequently attempted by us, hath nevertheless, hitherto, always miscarried with us, even from the very end that hath been propounded to our selves in it: Which is, the Example of the Hollanders, and the Gain he makes of it; and the necessity we suppose there is of following the same Me∣thod which we observe him to take in it; which is, to catch and save the said Fish in Herring-Busses.

9. That this our Miscarriage constantly in it, hath produced, not only a General Indisposition, but a General Despondency up∣on the Nation, any more to undertake it, or adventure upon it; as having entertained a certain secret Perswasion at length, through our unsuccessfulness in it, That our Nation hath not a Genius for it; and that there is a Mystery in it, which though the Dutch do well understand, yet we cannot reach it.

10. Whereas indeed the proper causes of all our Miscarriages, hath (as I humbly conceive) been rather produced from the De∣ficiencies following.

• 1. Because we have not throughly considered, That the Dutch have many more Conveniencies for prosecuting the said Fi∣shing than we can possibly have, if we will make London to be the Principal Scale, Seat, or Staple for the said Fishing Trade (as hitherto we have done) and shall Resolve to bring all the Fish that is caught, here, into the Thames, to be Ship'd off hence; even as the Dutch do usually bring theirs into Holland, before it can be any where Transported. And therefore,
• 2. Have not well weighed the great disadvantage of this very Foundation it self; in regard, it is not a matter of Election that the Dutch do bring in all their Herring first into Holland, before it be Ship'd, but is a matter of absolute Necessity that lyeth unavoidably on them, rather than of Choice.
• 3. For as much as the Hollanders have now for near a whole Age been Masters of the said Fishing, and of the present Me∣thod of it, in managing it by Busses: And for as much as they have been now for so long a time possest of such a vast Stock, both of Busses, Boats, Nets, and all manner of Pro∣visions and Conveniencies for it, which no other Nation be∣sides hath; and which none can in any reasonable time, nor without the Expence of at least a Million of Pounds Sterling ever be able to compass. They must, for these Reasons, of

• necessity be in a capacity of Husbanding the said Fishery in the present Order of it, to a far greater degree of Advantage, than it is possible for any Nation to do besides, who shall en∣deavour only to follow them, and imitate them in their way, and in the present manner of their Ordering of it.
• 4. It seems not to have been duly considered, That the Fishing hath not only of late, but for many Years been made the very Interest of the Netherland State; and been look'd upon by them as such an Interest, without which it is every way impossible that they should be able to uphold the greatness of their Stock, Power, or Trade. And
• 5. Such an Interest therefore, that, as they will never suffer themselves to be beaten or treated out of it, either by Pru∣dence or Force, so, never suffer any to share with them in it, if they can any way possibly hinder or avoid it. And con∣sequently,
• 6. That in as much as this is such an Interest as upon which they themselves know, that the whole of their Stock, Power, Strength, and Commerce by Sea, doth not only in part, but altogether depend; They must bend the chief of their Po∣licy, Counsel, and Force, not only to discourage any that shall Attempt it, but utterly to beat out any that shall Un∣dertake it; even though it should be with never so much loss to themselves for a season.

11. That, as it is for these Causes, and upon these Grounds therefore, that we have hitherto lost all the Stock that we have ever employed about the said Fishing: So, while the said Causes and Grounds do remain, it seems altogether impossible that we should avoid the losing of whatever Stock we shall hereafter Ad∣venture in it, or Employ about it. Seeing, if we shall proceed in no other Method than that we have hitherto accustomed our selves to, it will always be in the Power of the Hollander to under-sell us: And he will be sure purposely to Anticipate, clog, and pre∣vent the Market of us, where we shall Trade for the said Fish. Provided, we continue only in his course, and set not upon the said Fishing in any other better or more advantageous Order than that which he is himself so very well seen, vers'd, and experien∣ced in.

12. That by reason of the many Advantages which it is known that the Hollander hath of us in this Business: And by reason of

the Experience which we have so often had of our own loss and miscarriage in the said Fishing, we come likewise to lye under this further Disadvantage at present, viz. That there can be no ground rationally to expect that any Sock should for the future ever again be raised to set on foot the said Fishing, out of the voluntary Contribution of Ordinary and Private Persons.

13. That these things being thus truly stated, these Deductions following seem necessarily consequent.

• 1. That it is altogether in vain ever to expect any Advantage from the said Fishing, unless some course can rationally be propounded, whereby we may set upon the said Fishing, with∣out that Extraordinary Preparation and Charge which the Hollanders are necessarily put unto at present in it. Nor, without we can be able to make the said Fish cheaper than the Hollander now does in the way wherein he is. Nor, un∣less we can be able to under-sell him something in it, with∣out any considerable Loss to our selves. Nor, without we can also hope (upon such Grounds and Inductions as are reasonable) that we shall be able to go to Market with the said Fish before him.
• 2. That the setting also upon the said Fishery seems wholly un∣practical, if not impossible, unless such a Stock may be raised and found out for it, that shall not be dependant upon the Subscriptions or Pleasures of any Private Persons: And that shall nevertheless be, not only sufficient to begin it, but suf∣ficient also by being applyed constantly to it by degrees to promote it: And may be sufficient also, in time, with the Blessing of God upon it, Both to Defend it, and Protect it; and therefore to bear the Hazard of such extraordinary Ca∣sualties in it, which is not to be expected can, or ever will be born by the Fortune of Private Persons.
• 3. That the said Fishing, being so great an Interest of State, as it is in Holland, it can never increase therefore with any Suc∣cess in these Kingdoms, but it must expect to meet with many Indignities, Discouragements, and Affronts to be put upon it, from our Neighbours, in order to hinder it: And there∣fore it can never be so far pursued in England, as to arive to any visible Head, and much less to attain to any manner of Growth or Completion, without the Express Authority of the Government to Countenance it, and without the thorough

• Resolution of His Majesty to Defend it, and Protect it, in the Just and Merchantable Methods of it.

14. Which Foundations, as those which are the Main and Prin∣cipal ones, being now Premised, for the full, clear, and entire setling of the whole Affair of the Fishery, These Particulars fol∣lowing, are therefore in all Humbleness, supposed to be requisite.

• 1. The Signal and Express Countenance of His Majesty in it, with the Publick Authority of Parliament.
• 2. A Correspondency through His Majesty's Special Favour, Assistance, and Grace, with the Government and Subjects of His Majesty's Kingdoms of Scotland and Ireland.
• 3. An exact Method for pursuing of the said Fishery in such manner as may not only be easie, seizable, and practical, but as secure, and free from all Hazards, as we can Ratio∣nally or Morally propound things to be.
• 4. Such a different manner and order of Catching, Curing, and Saving the said Fish, as shall be every way more cheap, than that which the Hollander is in the present Practice of, and such as may be soon expedited and dispatched also, as that the Foreign Markets of the Hollander shall be generally always anticipated by our Shipping.
• 5. Such a Body of Instructions therefore as shall be sufficient to give light into each Particular that may rationally be suppo∣sed to be of moment with reference to the whole Affair of the said Fishing.
• 6. A select Choice of such Persons, as a Council or Directors of the said Fishing (not exceeding seven) as may not only be of Integrity, but of sufficient Ability to manage all things tending to the Promoting of the said Fishery, pursuant to the said Method and Instructions that shall be propounded: And consequently such Persons as are skilled in the Practical part of the Trade of the said Fishing.
• 7. That the said Council or Directors have the same Powers and Authorities given them, as have been usually heretofore granted to such Councils, as have been appointed for the Royal Fishing, together with such other Powers as to the Wisdom of His Majesty shall be thought fit: And that the said Powers and Authorities be confirmed by Act of Par∣liament. And
• ...

• 8. That Grand Commissioners be also appointed, for the chief Over-sight of the said Fishing, consisting of the Principal Officers of State, and of so many others, as to the Wisdom of His Majesty, and of the Parliament shall be thought fit.
• 9. That the said Grand Commissioners have full Power to call the said Council or Directors of the said Fishery to an Ac∣count, once every half Year; and to see by the Entries of their Journal, Letters, Orders, and Instructions, what Pro∣gress they do from time to time make in the said Business. To the end that His Majesty may have a perfect Account of it, and their Faithfulness or Negligence in it: And of what∣ever Accident may at any time happen to Impede it, Pro∣tract it, or Discourage it.
• 10. That to this end Duplicates of the said Council's Journal, Books of Letters and Instructions, be constantly Transcribed, not only for the use of the said Grand Commissioners, but that they may be the better preserved, and remain upon Record.
• 11. That the said Grand Commissioners may have Power, with the Leave of His Majesty, to propound some Praemium as an Extraordinary Reward from His Majesty, to encourage the Diligence of the said Directors: Which Praemium therefore is to be only out of the clear Gain that shall be made of the said Trade, through the Prudent and Faithful Management and Conduct of the said Directors: And shall be therefore such a part of the said clear Gain only, as to His Majesty's Wisdom shall be thought fit.
• 12. That the said Grand Commissioners have further Power, with the consent of His Majesty, to give Directions in all such cases of Difficulty, as shall at any time arise about the said Fishery. As also to Hear and Determine all such other Debates relating to the said Affair, as the said Directors may be doubtful in, or may not be able to agree amongst them∣selves fully about.
• 13. That if upon the good Success and Blessing of God upon the said Fishery, any of the Nobility, Gentry, or other Pri∣vate Persons, shall desire to Incorporate themselves, for the further Assistance and carrying on of the said Design, and for the making the Trade of the said Fishing the more com∣pleatly a Publick and National Concern: Or if the said Di∣rectors shall find it for the Service of His Majesty, and of

• absolute Necessity for the promoting of the said Fishing, to take into Association any of His Majesty's Subjects of Scot∣land, or of Ireland, with reference to the Fishing of either of the said Kingdoms. In either of these cases, such a Me∣thod is to be set down by the said Directors for the manner of it, as is to be wholly approved by His Majesty, and the said Grand Commissioners.
• 14. That such a Fund or Stock, that may be both Annual and certain, be by the special Grace and Favour of His Majesty Granted and Assigned, for the Undertaking and carrying on the said Fishing; and not only for the Increase, but for the better Protection and Defence of it, and for the defray∣ing the Sallaries and Contingences of such as shall be ap∣pointed the immediate Directors of it.
• 15. That for the better preventing either any Impediment or Interruption that may be endeavoured to be given by any, at any time hereafter in or about the said Fishing, It is fur∣ther Humbly Propounded, That the Application of the said Fund or Stock entirely for the carrying on of the said Fish∣ing, and for the Ends now mentioned, may be setled by Act of Parliament: Together with so many of these Pro∣posals, or of such others as shall be thought fit to be allowed or approved by His Majesty.
• 16. For the greater Encouragement of the said Fishing, and as a particular mark of the Parliament's Approbation of it, and of their desire to promote it: It is further Humbly Pro∣pounded, That all such Persons as shall Subscribe a Stock to∣wards the Advancement of the said Fishing, and all such others as shall be any ways employed for or in the managing of it, or for pursuing such Instructions and Directions about it, as shall any way be derived from His Majesty's Authority in it, shall be expresly declared to be taken into Protection by the Government, whether they be Natives of His Ma∣jesty's Dominions, or whether they be Foreigners: Together with all such Ships, Busses, Boats, and all other Vessels or Craft whatsoever that shall be employed by any of the Persons so associated in the said Fishing; or by any deriving Authority from His Majesty in it. And likewise that all Ships and Vessels which shall be built or bought by the Stock appointed for the said Fishing, or by any that shall further Subscribe to it, or be Associated with it, shall be exempted from Paying

• Duty, Custom or Impost, for the Fish which they shall Export. Or for whatsoever Salt, Barrel-Staves, Net-Yarn, Flax or Hemp, for making the said Net-Yarn, which they shall Import for the said Fishing, during such time as to the wisdom of his Majesty and the Parliament shall be thought fit.
• 17. That for the greater Encouragement of Merchants and others of Wisdom, Knowledge, and Experience, to Subscribe towards the carrying on the said Fishery: And for the better making the said Undertaking, The General Concern of this Na∣tion, it is further humbly Propounded, That all such Losses as shall proceed from the meer Casualty of the Seas by Storms or Shipwracks: And all such Losses as shall happen through any Injury or Violence that shall be offered us by any of the Subjects of the Neighbouring Princes or States about us, shall be so far born and eased, out of the said Publick Stock (which shall be designed towards it) as to the Wisdom of his Majesty and of the Parliament shall be thought fit.
• 18. That for the farther Encouragement of all sorts of Persons, to Subscribe to the said Fishing; and for Encouraging all Per∣sons of Quality the more, to make the said Undertaking The General Concern of this Nation, it is likewise humbly Propoun∣ded, That as ample Privileges may be given by his Majesty and the Parliament, to all such Persons as shall be Incorpo∣rated in the said Fishing Stock, as have been of late Granted by the Act of Parliament in Scotland, for the General Un∣dertaking of the said Fishing in that Kingdom.

15. And in regard, not only the valuableness but the intire pra∣cticableness of all these Proposals, doth wholly depend upon the finding out such a Fund or Stock as is herein mentioned. And up∣on clearing the Fe••zability of carrying on the said Fishing, in a way of more advantage than the Hollander is in at present; and forming such Instructions as are propounded: Wherefore, in or∣der to the compassing both the said Ends, as such a Method or Pra∣ctice is herewith humbly tendred; and such a Body of Instructi∣ons for pursuing the said Fishing, as may be answerable to the Ends which are now laid down, and to the Advantages here∣in mentioned: So there are some Gentlemen, who, out of their affection to his Majesties Service, and out of the great Sense they have, how much the gaining of the said Fishing doth im∣port and concern this Nation, have digested some Proposals to tender to his Majesty, about the Prae-emption of Salt, with such

a moderate Duty upon it, as may be neither grievous to the Na∣tion, nor burthensome to the Manufacture of it. By the Benefit of which Prae-emption alone, nevertheless it is hoped, That about Twenty thousand Pounds Sterling per year, or more, may be ea∣sily Raised, as a Fund or Stock, that may not only give a Begin∣ing to the said Fishing; but by a constant application to it, may by degrees increase it, and in time be able to perfect it: and may, if the Blessing of God give a Success to it, incourage divers others of the Nation to contribute both their Estates and Advice for the farther help of it: So as, it is hoped, nothing will be wanting, that may conduce to the compleating our Desire and Design, of undermining the Hollander in the present Possession he hath of the said Fishing; which, as it is the main and principal scope of this Paper, so of the Discourse hereunto annexed.

16. That both the said Discourses and the said Proposals about the Prae-emption of Salt, have the rather been tender'd at this season, in regard of the present Treaty which his Majesty is in with Holland: And that, considering how much his Majesty and his Subjects have suffered from that Nation, it is hoped that no∣thing in this Conjuncture of Affairs, will prove more grateful to the Parliament, or more obliging to the Nation it self; and therefore, that nothing may be more for his Majesties present Service.

17. That by how much the more plainly and obviously it doth appear, That the promoting of the Fishery is for the necessary Good and Interest of this Nation; and by how much the more highly grateful and obliging it must needs be, to see such a Foun∣dation laid, as may in probability every way tend to the exceed∣ing Greatness of it; by so much the more injurious and distast∣ful it must justly render the Dutch, to the generality of this Na∣tion, if they shall either wrongfully disturb us in it, or if they shall endeavour by Violence to force us from it.

18. This Proposal is the rather Presented at this Season, That upon this occasion, the Ancient Rights of his Majesty, and the known Customs of this Kingdom, may be farther examined and enquired into; viz. For the granting not only a Guard and Pro∣tection, but express License to all Fishers whatsoever, Fishing in any part of the Seas, from the West of England even unto Scot∣land: and for the demanding a Duty upon all Fish so caught in any part of the said Seas, towards defraying the charge of the said Guard and Protection; not only from the Subjects belong∣ing

unto France, but from the Subjects belonging to the Duke of Burgundy, and the Dukes of Britany. And that if the said Cu∣stom of giving License and Protection to all Fishers, be found to be the undoubted Right of his Majesty, and of this Kingdom, the said Custom may receive such farther Sanction, Assertion, and Confirmation from his Majesty, and from the Parliament, as to the Wisdom of his Majesty and of the Parliament, shall at this juncture of time be judged most convenient.

19. Lastly, This Proposal is the rather tendred, because, not∣withstanding the extraordinary Gain which the Hollander doth continually reap from our own Seas by the said Fishing; and not∣withstanding the many Laws which he hath made for the Encou∣raging, Regulating, and Promoting his own Fishing; [which are about Thirty] And, notwithstanding the several Affronts that have been offered us, both in Scotland, and in our own Channel by their Fishers: And, notwithstanding that both his Majesty's Father, and his Majesty's Grandfather, have been constrained by their respective Proclamations, to vindicate their Rights against the Insolencies of the said Dutch, both to the said Seas, and to the said Fishing: Yet, no Parliament of England hath hitherto, ei∣ther made any Law purposely or principally for increasing the said Fishing; or hath ever raised or appointed any Stock towards it; or hath erected any Council about it; or hath incouraged the Nation it self to Undertake it; or hath warranted them their Protection in it.

5. In the next place shall be super-added, a few Pages of a Treatise witten by Mr Andrew Yarranton, (entituled, The Second Part of Englands Improvement by Sea and Land) who, upon much Travel and Observation, (amongst other things) thought fit to give his Furtherance and Advice towards the Undertaking and Management of the Fishery. Evincing, how we may outdo our Neighbours therein; [which may serve by way of Answer to their Objection, who would have us believe, that we cannot do it to the like Advantage, and at lower Charge, &c.] which is Transcribed in his own words, as followeth, viz.

So Prodigiously Rich is the Fishing Trade, and so plainly the Right of the King of England, That with good reason is our neg∣ligence taken notice of, by all Europe; and our Prudence questio∣ned by it, that we keep so little a share of it to our selves as we do; and let our Neighbours grow great and haughty by the peace∣able

and full enjoyment of that considerable Trade. 'Twas a most unlucky piece of Goodness, That some of our former Prin∣ces ever suffered a Foreign Buss to visit the English Coasts. The Tributes and Acknowledgments were paid them then, in return of that Favour. And most unlucky still it was, that the sad Calamitous Times, in the Reign of King Charles I. prevented his Resolution, of Correcting the Dutch, and keeping the Wealth of the Seas to his own People: And that the Civil Wars, some time after, gave-occasion to the Hollanders to fix themselves in that Trade; and 'tis now a difficult matter (by force) to dispossess them of it.

This only Trade hath been the occasion of their present Great∣ness. This hath given them their mighty numbers of Seamen, their vast Fleets of Ships, and a Foundation of all their other Trades. But they could not so easily have Ingrossed the Fishery to themselves (notwithstanding those opportunities they have had of advancing themselves, whilst we have not had Leisure to look abroad) if at other times we had used a due Prudence to withdraw it from them.

We have endeavoured with Force, and a prodigious expence of Treasure and Blood, to bring down their Hearts, and level their Trades: And had they dared to meet us in open Sea, no doubt we had done their Business, and our own: But they are too Wise to do so, without all the advantage in the World; and therefore have commonly so managed themselves, by standing on the defen∣sive part, by prolonging a War; by retiring within their Sands, and natural defences of their Seas, that we have been hardly able at any time, to do any thing considerable upon them; never to vindicate the Fishery to our selves; nor indeed, to bring them to their acknowledgment for that Privilege.

We have endeavour'd otherwise also to raise our Fishery and depress theirs; as, By raising Joint Stocks for the buying Busses and Nets, and all other Necessaries for so great an Affair; and by making Companies, and gathering large Sums of Money to be employed in the same manner. But all these industrious attempts have had ill Success, and have ended in nought but a visible loss to the Undertakers, and reproach to the Nation.

How there should be these miscarriages, it may seem wonder∣ful to most Men; when the Fish are on our own Coasts, when we have had good Harbours, and the whole Nation praying for the Prosperity of the Undertaking: And if you read all the Books that have been wrote on this Subject of the Fishery, you shall not find one give the reason of our Failures.

You shall find them plentiful in setting forth the great Riches attending thereon; the mighty increase of Seamen; the con∣stant imploy of the Poor, and the inlargement of their several Trades: Not one word of the grounds of our ill success, or of the reasons of the Prosperity of the Dutch; or of the remedies to be made use of by us, to recover our Loss and Credit. Alas! Without these last enquiries, what signify the first? but to raise our Grief and Torment, when we know the advantages of the Fishery, but cannot attain to them. Methinks, If they had not been very Ingenious and Prudent Men, which had passed by these Enquiries, I could presently be satisfied, that I could give a Re∣solution to them; Nor do I despair that I can, nevertheless. For, the things are so evident to my self, that I cannot doubt, but they will be so to all others also.

What then is the reason, Why our English Fishery is Unprospe∣rous, and the Dutch Successful?

'Tis in short, That we Fish intolerably Dear, and they exceed∣ing Cheap.

What also, if this inconveniency of ours might be removed, by being taught to Fish cheaper than the Dutch possibly can? For it is not to be doubted, but as cheapness is one of the most essen∣tial parts of Trade: And as he that can sell a Commodity cheap∣est, shall certainly have the Trade of that Commodity; so, be∣cause the Dutch Fish cheaper than we now, and therefore can sell cheaper; they therefore consequently, have the Trade of the Fi∣shery; and by the same reason, when we are able to Fish cheap∣er than they, we shall carry away the Fishing Trade from them also. For, The Trade must necessarily be there, where 'tis car∣ried on cheapest. No other Reason can there possibly be, why the Dutch should get the Fishery to themselves.

If you say, The regularity of their Trade, or their Industry may effect this, and deny that they Fish cheaper; you may easi∣ly be answered, as to the two first parts of your Assertion; for they are both resolved into cheapness. Industry promotes cheap∣ness, and so does Regularity; both of them are but Promoters of that which I have told you is the supporter of the Dutch Trade: And as to the latter part of the Assertion, you must be convinced by Fact.

I will therefore shew you, First, How the Dutch manage their Fishe∣ry to the best advantage.

Secondly, In what chargeable ways the English proceed in the Fishery.

And then, at last, Thirdly, I will endeavour to shew you, how the defects of our English Fishery may be removed, and it be made chea∣per than it is with the Dutch.

As to the Management of the Fishery to the best Advantage by the Hollanders.

The great Trade of building Busses, making Nets, and doing all other things which are convenient for the Fishing Trade, is at Enecusen, upon the South-Sea, and at several places adjoyning: So that, all the conveniencies for that Trade lying near together, it is carried on with the greater Expeditness and Cheapness. 'Tis not in the power of any Man to run the prices of things high, where there is a mighty number of the same Profession about him, who all of them work with the greatest Diligence that can be, that they may not be undersold by another.

In other places (where Two or Three only of the same Trade reside) they very often presume upon a necessity of the Neighbour∣ing Countries dealing with them; and therefore live profusely, and demand intolerable prices for their Commodities; which (ac∣cording to their way of living) they cannot afford cheaper. Here is no ground for such an Extravagancy. You must live moderate∣ly, and sell cheap, or you cannot drive a Trade in these Parts.

What promotes, especially the Building their Busses as cheap as they do, but their good Husbandry? In always being provided with Timber, fitted to all Dimensions? So that, they can no sooner resolve on Building a Buss, but the Timber is instantly laid out for its Foundation and Bones, and with mighty Expedition the Buss is raised.

And, now the Buss is raised, what can they do less than take care to preserve it from all Storms and Bruises whilest it lies at home in Harbour? And therefore they have cut Rivers and Chan∣nels for its quiet Repose; which requires not the Charge either of Cable or Anchor, or of any Person to look to it, when not employed in Fishing. These are great Advantages. But see what mighty ones follow. The Busses and Nets, and the Tackling belonging thereunto, are always to the Owners sufficient Credit to take up Ready Moneys, either to be employed in the Voyage,

or to buy Salt or Victuals, or for any other necessary Occasions: And the Title to the Buss never so much as Questionable, she be∣ing always under a Register: A thing of no small Importance to all Persons therein concerned, were it well considered. For, there∣by all Men whatsoever are made capable with swiftness to run their Money into the Fishing Trade, and buying a part of, or the whole Buss. And since there is such Security, what, should the Money lye rusting in the Bags? No, it is not so; it tumbles out into Trade immediately: The Owner either willingly running the hazard himself, or Letting it at Three in the Hundred, Interest; nay, sometimes for Two, hath the Fisherman enough to serve his Occasions: An unspeakable Benefit is this to him, and a Prodigi∣ous Advancement to the Trade in general.

But oh! This Trade is so sweet (see the Care and Diligence of the States about it) no less than Forty Placaets made by them for the Curing and well Ordering of the Herrings, as the Season of the Year shall require. What quick dispatches have the Fishery in all its Affairs, when ever it comes before the Body of the States? They give them all sufficient Guards, whilest they are Laboriously drawing up into their Ships the Riches of the Sea; and permit the Fishers to end all their Differences by Men of their own Trade, that it may be concluded with quickness and small charge. So great are all these Advantages of the Fishery, that one would think, that one need not have another; and yet they have a con∣siderable one: They make Salt upon Salt with Portugal Salt and Sea-water mixt together; and by this means they have this Com∣modity cheap, which is used so considerably in the Fishery; And under these beneficial Circumstances is the Fishery of Holland (at all times) managed.

I do not here intend to speak of their Benefits and Returns in the Fishing Trade, by the vast Exchange and Barter which they make with their Fish for other Commodities, in most parts of the World. 'Tis enough for my purpose, that I have given you the several conveniencies that do attend them, until their Fish (caught and cured) be brought into their Harbours.

But now, Let us see how blessedly the English Fishery is mana∣ged. We are likely indeed, to keep pace with the Dutch in that Trade, when it is carried on so, as if we had studied to make it as chargeable as it could be.

The building of Busses is hardly known by us; Or, where it is known, it is a mighty charge above what the Dutch Build at.

Such bad Husbands are we in providing Stores of Timber, and sorting it out for all the Dimensions of our Buss: Besides, our Timber costs us more, (though we have it off our own Soyle) than it doth the Hollander, that fetches every Plank of it from Germany, or other remote Places.

Our Nets, and all our Tackle convenient for the Fishery, are not here to be had, but at much greater Rates than what the Dutch pay for them: And if they chance to want mending at any time, it is impossible as matters go with us now, we cannot with speed enough have them done here, but must be forced to send them over to Enecusen in Holland to have them mended, with greater Expedition and Cheapness.

And now, perhaps, the Fishing time is over, and the Buss is brought into Harbour, (not into Cuts or Channels for that purpose) but she must have Anchor and Cable to keep her to her Station: She continually suffers the unkindness of frequent Tides. And here only is the care of our Busses eminent, that we provide Men to look to them, and are even expensive rather than suffer them to lye alone. So great is our Negligence, and so small is our Policie.

But we even outdo our selves in the concern of Salt: Our Folly even in this alone, is sufficient to ruine the Fishing design; for we have no Salt Works wholly applicable to, and at the command of our Fishery; and therefore we expose it to all the uncertainties in the World. Let but a War fall out between us and some Po∣tent Prince or State, and presently Salt rises to such excessive Rates, that the Fishery cannot be carried on, while it continues so. Trade cannot endure such a mighty inconvenience, and is impatient of staying any where, but where it may be even and clever.

Well, The Fisherman has need of a little Money to mend or buy some Nets, or some Provisions for his Voyage; let us see af∣ter what fashion he will be furnished. The Property of his Buss is not so certain, as to take up Money upon it; nor draw in a Partner. If the poor Man would any ways procure a Supply, he must bring his Sureties, and pay at least Six in the Hundred; and let him be sure to observe the very minute of Payment, or he will be swinged unconscionably by his Creditor. But perhaps, he cannot get Security, and then his Voyage is hindred; and no body has the benefit of his disappointment but the Dutch, And his Wife, who, by this means, has his Company the longer. I need

not declare any other disadvantages of the English Fishery, as, A long Process of Law upon Controversies. Few or no Directions for its management, from publick Authority, And, Persons employ∣ed therein, many times very unfitting for that Business.

What I have already shewn, is enough to convince any Man, that we manage our Fishery basely, and at a vast Expence, in com∣parison of the Dutch, and that we are deficient of the encourage∣ments that they enjoy.

I should now proceed, to The redress of these mischiefs; but I must first vent my sorrow, and lament a while, that we have thus long lain under these inconveniencies, to the utter suppressing this Trade, which would have given the Nation a mighty Strength and Treasure; which would have employed thousands of poor People, who heretofore, and now, want Bread to maintain them for want of Work: And to the raising some of our Neighbours (as well Hansmen as Dutch, though I have not named them) to great Riches; To a Power and Impudence of Confronting our selves, and maintaining their Insolence by that very Strength, which our remisness and negligence has given them.

I come at last to shew how these miscarriages may be retrieved; how we may gain the Fishery to our selves, and exclude the Dutch who have enjoyed it so long already. And certainly this can never be done, but by putting our selves in a way to sell the Commodity cheaper than they. I would have said also, we ought to sell our Fish as well conditioned as they; but that it's plain, Goodness is included in Cheapness. For I may sell a Commo∣dity not cheaper than another, though I sell it at a lower price, if the Commodity be not comparable to his in Goodness.

This thing, Cheapness, is, as before I have said, the great Con∣troller of all Trade; and is (as it were) the waiting Gentlewo∣man to Trade, who must be obtained before ever 'tis possible to gain the Mistress. This is so clear, that I need not recount the common instances of its effects over all the World. By this means Empories have been shuffled from one place to another: And it hath been the common Artifice of such as have desired to Engross the Trade of their Neighbours, to act by such Methods.

I will go on therefore, and endeavour to inform you, how this Cheapness may be introduced; And, in order to it will use this Method.

First, To shew you, how and where sufficient Iron and Tim∣ber

may be had to build Busses, and how it may be contrived, that we may build them cheaper than the Dutch.

Secondly, To recommend a place to you, where we may have Cuts and Channels, and all other Conveniencies for the recei∣ving in of Busses, as well as they in Holland.

Thirdly, Propose where a convenient Sea-City may be built for those that are employed in the Fishery, to inhabit in; and how it may be conveniently Erected.

Fourthly, To shew you, That we have so great a conveniency for the making of Salt, that we may at all times afford it much cheaper than the Dutch can; and that this Salt will be much bet∣ter for Curing Fish, than any that is now Extant. And,

Fifthly, Offer some reasons, for the allowing certain Privileges to the Sea-City, and the Inhabitants thereof, for their Encou∣ragement and Trading cheap.

As to the first Proposal of making Busses Cheap.

In many places of Ireland, Timber lies wasting and decaying for want of Money to make the ways passable to some Rivers; and the making such Rivers Navigable, for the bringing down Timber for its Exportation: So that, at present, the Timber is of little or no advantage to the Owners or the Publick: And this is so, more especially in the County of Wexford near the River Slane. There is a Wood with prodigious quantities of Timber, which may be brought to a convenient place upon the said River, for Eight Shil∣lings the Tun or Load; There, all the Timber and Beams of the Buss may be fixed; and then she may be taken off the Stocks; and the River (with Four or Five thousand Pounds charge) may be made sufficiently useful for that purpose. Then she may be conveyed towards the Sea by several Flashes, from place to place, till you come to Eniscorthy or Scarawalsh, where she may be fitted up and finished. In like manner may all sorts of Timber be conveyed down the Slane, for Exportation.

As to what Iron is necessary towards the building of Busses, it may be made upon this River, with the vast Timber that now lies Rotting; and the Offal of such Timber as shall be used in the building of Busses: and of the Forest of Dean Cindars, and Iron Stone; which Metal makes the best Iron in the World; except what is made of Iron Stone, dug out of the Clay-Hill near Lud∣low in Shropshire. And the price of this Iron so made, will not

be above Nine Pounds the Tun, in the Bar, and Eleven Pounds drawn out into Bolts, as it is in Germany, for the use of the Dutch in building their Shipping.

For your better Satisfaction, take here the rates of making one Tun of Iron, Fifteen Miles upon the Slane.

	l.	s.	d.
Of Iron, Stone and Cindars, carried out of the Forest of Dean, by Sea to Wexford, and so unto the place where it is to be converted to Iron; Two Tuns of Cindars, and One Tun of Iron Stone (which Three Tun of Mine will make One Tun of Iron) delivered in Weymouth, will cost.	0	18	0
The Carriage of Three Tun of Iron Stone, and Cindars from Weymouth to Waxford.	2	0	0
The Carriage of Three Tun from Wexford to the place intended for the Fornace.	0	12	0
Two Loads and half of Charcoal, to make One Tun of Sow-Iron, at 8 s. per Load.	1	0	0
Founders Wages for making One Tun of Sow-Iron.	0	4	0
So the Tun of Sow-Iron made in the place, will be	4	14	0
Two thousand seven hundred of Sow-Iron will make One Tun of Bar-Iron, whereof the charges of making One Tun of Bar-Iron, will be	6	8	6
For making One Tun of Bar-Iron to the Finery, or Hammer-man	1	0	0
Three Load of Charcoal to make One Tun of Bar-Iron, at 8 s. per Load,	1	4	0
All which makes the Tun of Bar-Iron delivered in the place,	8	12	6
For Drawing One Tun of Iron into Bolts the German way,	2	0	0
So the charge of Iron drawn into Bars is 8 l. 12 s. 6 d. and in Bolts 2 l. in all,	10	12	6

And that which will contribute much to the cheapness of working Iron into divers and various Commodities, is, That with∣in

Twelve Miles of the place, fit and convenient for this design of building Busses, there is the best and durablest Pit-coals fit for Smiths, that ever yet I saw, 'tis called Kill-Kenny-Coals. Here are therefore redundant Advantages, besides the promotion of the cheapness of building Busses, that the Trade of working Iron in∣to Commodities may be highly advanced; So that, in that also we may out do, and under sell our Neighbours.

But to come narrowly to the consideration of what I have said in Relation to Busses, Timber is by that means, to be had at the third Penny, the Dutch now pay for theirs; which they are for∣ced to fetch out of Germany; and Iron at Two thirds the Dutch now pay for theirs.

When the Buss is Building we shall have Advantages also: For, Provisions may be had for the Workmen at Two thirds of what it costs the Dutch: And certainly, all this considered together, there will be no small assistance found out, for procuring cheap∣ness in our Fishery, and under-selling the Hollanders.

Yet, To set out and compleat the Buss, there are still wanting Pitch, Tar and Masts, which may be brought with as little charge to the place proposed, for Erecting Busses, betwixt Scotland and Ireland, as it is now to Holland. Rope and Canvas (if we please) may be also procured, as cheap as by them.

And now the Buss is fitted out, let her be laded with all sorts of Timber, ready prepared for Shipping, as also with Iron Bolts, Trindle-pins, and Planks, to be carried to the New Sea-City, hereafter mentioned, to be used either for Building or Repairing other Fishing Busses; or for occasions in Shipping or Building.

I am ready to justify the cheap Building of Busses, I have here proposed, to any Man whatsoever, that denies it. Nor am I stint∣ed up only to the Woods upon the River Slane; for there are se∣veral other Woods in Ireland, that lies very conveniently, and may be almost as useful as those. So that, upon the whole, I dare aver, That Ireland may be made as beneficial, or more to England, than Norway is to the Dane; if matters were but fitly applied, and the cheapness it would give us in Trade, taken hold of.

For places to be made to hold the Busses when not employed abroad, and thereby to save all that needless Expence we are at present at, to preserve the Busses from the damage they commonly receive, when they lye in our great Rivers; and thereby to make our Husbandry as great as 'tis with the Dutch.

Certainly there cannot be a greater conveniency than is in the Isle of Doggs, or Blackwall Levell; An Isle seated in the Thames, (one of the best Rivers in the World) just over against Greenwich. This Level lyes so low within its Banks, that the Thames at High∣water, rises Five or Six Foot above its surface: By which means, the Channels may, with very little charge, be Cut; the Earth not being to be carried away, but thrown up to raise a Bank, for making the Channels sufficient to keep in the Tide. If the Chan∣nels be cut Six Foot deep, the Water will be Eleven Foot deep in them; so that any Buss fully laded, there will be Water suffici∣ent for to Swim in and out.

And upon the Banks of these Cuts may be Built the Sea-City, before proposed for the conveniency of Fishermen, and others concerned in the Fishery; and then the Buss may be laid up just under (or before) the Fisherman's house; and the Water (by Locks) may be kept back at the Re-flowing of the Tyde, for the more convenient and quiet living of the Buss: Here will be no need of Ancor or Cable, or Man to look after the Buss.

Here also may be made all manner of Ropes and Nets for the use of the Fishery; and here may be made Docks convenient to Build Ships and Busses, and Yards to receive in all things that may be wanting, for the Equipping of the Buss.

And that the Building such a City is necessary for the carrying on so great a Design, we may consider, how easily a new Under∣taking is destroyed in the beginning, without all the Incourage∣ments and Helps in the World, that may be afforded.

This hath been apparent in the setting up all Manufactures whatsoever; and from whence it has been a common Policy to settle a Staple in some certain Town, where 'tis best to be regu∣lated, by the Members of the Trade living together. And this Cohabitation has been a frequent cause of Industry and great im∣provements: one Man advancing the Husbandry and Invention of another: It has prevented Cheats, and Coznages, and Extra∣vagant Prices. For every Man is cautious that he deals honestly, and sells at a moderate Price, when he knows he shall be other∣wise supplanted in his Trade, by his more honest Neighbour. But how much does it concern us to provide these Conveniencies, for the Advancement of the Fishery? when we shall not be able to make any thing of it, unless we are able to under-sell the Dutch, (a vigilant and industrious People, already fixed in that Trade) who know their Support and Being depends upon it; and there∣fore

will by all means whatsoever, endeavour to ruine the En∣terprize.

Next comes the Consideration of Salt.

It has been for many years disputable in Holland, what Salt is best for curing the Herrings; and what sorts of Salt are fittest to be used in the several Fishing Seasons. And there hath been much Labour and practical Experience used, to bring the Salt to such Perfections as 'tis now with them. But, Notwithstanding all their Practice and Enquiry, there are many good Arguments to be produced, which may prove, that great part of the Salt now used in curing their Fish, is not so good as the World takes it to be.

I am not at present for Controversies, but I dare affirm, and shall be ready at any time to make it appear, That there is in England Salt-Brine running at wast, of such noble and good qua∣lity, that if it were made and converted into good sizeable Salt, fit for salting Herrings, it would surpass any Salt that is now Ex∣tant; and make the Herrings that are salted therewith, bring at all Markets more Money by the Barrel, than twice the value of such Salt, as will be used in Salting such Herrings shall come to.

This is a rare Salt indeed; and removes not only those mis∣chiefs, which at present (in the Fishery) have relation to Salt, but seems, in a mighty measure, to promise us the Fishing Trade.

Salt was a charge before to us, but now, 'twill be the occasion of a greater Gain; affording us upon the return by the Sale of the Fish, double its charge and worth: And 'twill be much better for us to use Salt thus, than if Fish could be cured without Salt, and sold at the Price 'tis now at. Whilst this Advantage is enjoyed by us, still must the Dutch be at the same Expence for their Salt: They must first fetch their Salt from France or Portugal; and if they make Salt upon Salt, they must fetch their Brine from Sea to mix with Portugal Salt: This is Toylsome and Chargeable; but ours will come at much lower Rates. It may be delivered in Cornwal for Salting the Pilchards; and at the Dogger-Sands for Salting Herrings, even at Twelve Pence the Bushel. For, The Salt-Brine lies so conveniently, That it may be conveyed in Pipes to a place plentiful of Coals, and joining to a great Navigable Ri∣ver, by which a Ship of Fifty Tuns may come to it.

A Sample of this Salt shall be at Mr. Man's Coffee-house, at Charing-cross; at Jonathan's Coffee-house in Exchange-Alley, and at

Richard's at Temple-bar; where some Persons of Honour will at∣test the truth of the Discovery, and of the quantity that may at all times be had. And how can we now fear (if what I have said be true) but that the Fishery must certainly be ours? We shall have cheaper Timber, cheaper Iron by far, than the Dutch; other things necessary for a Buss, as cheap as they. Salt incom∣perably better, as convenient Channels and better, being seated in the middle of a well ordered Town. But,

To these mighty advantages, how happy should we be, if one more were given us? viz, To have great Privileges and Immu∣nities conferr'd upon the Sea-faring City. As much may be said for this, and more than what was urged before, for a Cities being granted. How can there be too great immunities given, for the set∣tling so great a Design as the Fishery? Great Privileges will draw in Numbers of Inhabitants, from at home and abroad; does also cause Cheapness, (the essential part of Trade:) and indeed is as convenient for Raising the Fishing Enterprize, as any thing that can be named.

I therefore lastly Humbly offer these Privileges may be granted the Fishing City.

• 1. A Freedom from Taxes, for a certain number of Years.
• 2. Freedom from Customs, for all Goods that shall be used about the Fishing Trade, and in making Busses, &c.
• 3. That the Houses in the City, and Busses, may be put under a Register, and so become Transferrable Credit.
• 4. That Granaries and Lumber-houses to take in Corn, and Pawns by way of Registry may be allowed.
• 5. That Naturalization may be allowed to all Strangers and Fo∣reigners, and Liberty of Conscience, &c.
• 6. That a Fund be fixed, for Maintenance of all such as shall fall into Want, who are employed in the Fishing Trade; and did not break by their own Knavery or Negligence.
• 7. That all Differences betwixt Party and Party, relating to the Fishing Trade, may be ended by Members of the said City and Trade.

These Privileges proposed for the Fishing City, and what be∣fore I offered for the Redress of the ill managements in our Fi∣shery, will, no doubt, answer the intended End. Nothing being amiss in our Fishery, but a way is shewn how it may be Cor∣rected;

Nothing good and commendable in the Dutch Fishery; but a Discovery is made, how we may outdo and under-sell them.

As I have ventured on the Grounds and Reasons of the Fishing Trade, I doubt not, but (if the Parliament approve of my Senti∣ments upon it) they will be willing to raise a small Sum for the advancement of this vast Design of the Fishery. But 'tis strange, That a certain Gentleman should advise the Parliament (in Print) to raise Six hundred thousand Pounds for this Enterprize, with∣out giving any Reasons, how the Obstructions that may make so noble a Design ineffectual in the end, might be removed.

6. To draw towards a Conclusion of this Collection, take an Ab∣stract of the Laws, &c. respecting the Fishery Trade, and In∣couragements thereto: Taken out of the last Impression of the Collection of Acts, of Tunnage and Poundage, and Book of Rates, Printed Anno 1689. (and other Statutes) which being in most or many Merchants hands, they may examine the same, and find the Contents of them more at large in the several Pages of the said Book herein after mentioned, viz.

Pag.
44.	Under the Head of Fish, it is noted, That all sorts of Fish, English taken, and brought in English Ships, ought to pay no Custom, as by the Statute of 5 Eliz. Regin. Cap. 5.
115.	By the Act of 12 Car. II. Regis, entituled, An Act for Encouraging and Increasing of Shipping and Navigation: That Fish, Fins and Oyl, not made and cured by English men, shall pay double Strangers Customs, upon their Im∣portation.
121.	By the same Act it is provided, This Act shall not extend to lay Aliens Duties on Salt made in Scotland; nor to any Fish caught, saved and cured by the People of Scotland, and Imported directly in Scotch built Ships, &c.
139.	In the Act of 12 Car. II. entituled, A Subsidy granted to the King, of Tunnage and Poundage, &c. It is provided, That all manner of Fish English taken, and brought by English bottoms into this Realm; and all manner of Fresh Fish and Bestial, that shall come into this Realm, are except∣ed and foreprized.
141.	In the same Act it is provided, That it shall and may be lawful, to all and every his Majesties Subjects, at his and

their will and pleasure, To Convey and Transport out of this Realm in Ships and other Vessels, of any the Sub∣jects of this Realm, all and any kind of Herrings, and o∣ther Sea-Fish, to be taken in the Sea, by any the Subjects aforesaid, from or out of any Port or Harbour of this Realm, to any place out of your Majesty's Dominions, without paying any Custom, Subsidy, or Poundage Mo∣ney for the same Herring, or other Fish so Carried and Transported: any thing herein before contained to the contrary notwithstanding.

In an Act past Anno 13 & 14 Car. II. Regis Cap. 24. entituled, An Act Declaratory concerning Bankrupts; It is Enacted, That no Person or Persons whatsoever, who have adventured or put in, or who hereafter shall adventure or put in any Sum or Sums of Money, in the East-India Company, or Guiney Company; or in∣to any Joynt Stock or Stocks of Money, by them or either of them made or raised, or to be made and raised, for and to∣wards the maintaining and carrying on the Trade by the said East-India Company, or Guiney Company, managed or to be ma∣naged, or who have formerly, or shall hereafter adventure or put in any Sum or Sums of Money, into any Stock or Stocks of Money, for the maintaining and carrying on of the Fishing Trade, or the Trade now called Royal Fishing Trade; and shall receive and take his or their Part or Dividend of Fish, Goods, or Mer∣chandizes in Specie, and shall Sell or Exchange the same; shall for or by reason only of such adventure of Monies so put into the said East-India Company, or Guiney Company, or into any Stock or Stocks, for and towards the said Fishing Trade; or for, or by reason only of the receiving and taking such Fish, Goods, and Merchandizes in Specie, or Selling for Money, or Exchang∣ing the same again, be adjudged, taken, esteemed, or reputed a Merchant or Trader, within any Statute or Statutes for Bankrupts, or be liable to the sane, &c.

Pag.
165.	In the Act of 14 Car. II. Regis, entituled, An Act for preventing Frauds, &c. The King by his Commission may appoint Lawful Keys, &c. for the Shipping and Lading of Goods; and that no Goods shall be Laden or Dischar∣ged, but at such lawful Places: Fish taken by his Majesty's Subjects, Bestials, and Salt only excepted.

169.	In the same Act, Pitch, Tar, Salt, Rozen, Deal Boards, Fir, Timber, &c. from the Netherlands or Germany, are Prohibited to be Imported in any sort of Ships whatsoever, on Penalty of the Loss of the said Goods and Ships, &c.
175.	In the same Act it is provided, That it shall and may be Lawful to Export from any his Majesty's Dominions Fish, into any parts of the Mediterranean Sea, in any English Ship or Vessel whatsoever. Provided, That one Moyety of her full Lading, be Fish only. And, In such case to Import any Wares or Merchandizes in the same Ship for that Voyage, without paying any other Rates or Duties of Tunnage or Poundage for the same, than were hereto∣fore accustomed. And,
176.	That all Salt Imported from Scotland, shall pay one half Penny, for every Gallon Winchester Measure, at the La∣ding thereof, to his Majesty.
194.	In the Act of 15 Car. II. Regis, entituled, An Act for Encouragement of Trade: It is provided, That it shall and may be Lawful to Ship and Lade, &c. Salt, for the Fishe∣ries of New-England and Newfoundland, &c. and the same to Transport into any the Lands and Places therein na∣med; any thing in the foregoing clause to the contrary in any wise notwithstanding.
199.	In the same Act, for the encouragement of Herring Fi∣sheries, is this Clause, viz. And for the Encouragement of the Herring and North Sea, Isleland, and Westmony Fi∣sheries, Be it Enacted, &c. That from and after the First day of August, 1664. no fresh Herring, fresh Cod, or Haddock, Coalfish, or Gullfish, shall be Imported into England, Wales, &c. but in English built Ships or Vessels, or in Ships or Vessels bonâ side, belonging to England, &c. and having Certificates thereof, &c. and which hath been Fished, Caught, and Taken in such Ships or Vessels, and not being bought or had of any Strangers born, or out of any Strangers Bottoms, under Pain of Forfeiture of Goods and Vessels, &c.
209.	In the Act of 18 Car. II. Regis, entituled, An Act against Importing Cattle from Ireland, &c. For the better Encou∣ragement of the Fishery of this Kingdom, It is Enacted,

That if any Ling, Herring, Cod, or Pilchard, Fresh or Salted, Dryed or Bloated, or any Salmon, Eals or Con∣gers taken by any Foreigners, &c. shall be Imported, Uttered, Sold, or Exposed to Sale in this Kingdom, the same shall be Seized, Sold, &c.
245.	In the Act of 25 Car. II. Regis, entituled, An Act for the Encouragement of the Green-land and East-land Trade, and for the better securing the Plantation Trade: Liberty is given for all Persons to Trade thither, and to Import into this Kingdom, all sorts of Oyl, Blubber and Fins, &c. and to use and exercise all other Trade, to and from those Parts; without paying any Custom or Duty, for any such Goods brought in by any English, or Welch Vessels. But if by any Shipping of the King's Colonies and Plantations, then to pay the several Rates mentioned in this Act, &c. And the English, who are to have the benefit of this Act, must proceed from England to Green-land.
Pa. 249.	In the same last forementioned Act, it is also Enacted, for the Encouragement of the East-land Trade, That all Persons shall have free Liberty to Trade into, and from Sweden, Denmark, and Norway, &c. any thing in the Charter of the Governour, &c. or any other Charter, Grant, Act, &c. to the contrary notwithstanding; and that any Persons of this Realm, that shall desire it, may be admitted into the said Fellowship of Merchants of East-land paying for his Admission Forty Shillings, and no more.
255.	In the Act past Anno Primo Regni Jac. II. entituled, An Act for the settling the Revenue on his Majesty for Life, was settled on his said late Majesty for his Life, &c.

Also, In the Act past Anno 5 and 6 of W. M. (whereby it is Enacted, That from and after the 25th day of March, 1694. There shall be paid to their Majesties, until the 17th day of May, 1697. and no longer, for Salt, the Rates and Duties therein mentioned) It is provided, That for all such Fish, therein after mentioned, as shall be Exported from any Port or Place, in England, Wales, and Ber∣wick, into any Parts beyond the Seas, shall be re-paid to the Expor∣ter, these Rates following, viz.

	l.	s.	d.
For every Vessel of Pilchards, containing 50 Gallons,	0	12	0
For every Barrel of White Herrings,	0	2	6
For every Barrel of Red Herrings,	0	2	0

For every Barrel of Salmon,	0	5	0
For every Hundred of Cod-fish, Ling, Conger or Hake,	0	15	0

And so proportionably for agreater or smaller Number or Quan∣tity; which shall be paid by the Officer appointed to Collect the Du∣ties upon Salt, payable by the said Act: And, If the Officer have not Money in hands to pay the same; then, upon his Certificate, the principal Commissioners of Excise shall pay it. And if the Officer refuse to pay or give such Certificate, he shall forfeit dou∣ble the Sum. [As by the said Act, Relation being thereunto had, for the better certainty thereof, it doth and may more fully and at large Appear.]

To all which Premises, for the further encouragement of Per∣sons to become Subscribers and Ingagers in this Fishery Affair, 'tis thought meet to conclude with the Abstract of a Paper (come to the Collectors hands) which contains the Substance of the things before written; under the Title of Some Preliminary Con∣siderations and Advertisements, &c. Viz.

The Advantages thereof may have Demonstration and Evidence, by the great Power and Wealth which our Neighbours have arri∣ved unto thereby, In multitudes of Ships and Seamen imployed therein; and Publick Revenues, and Private Advantages of their Merchants, by and with the Commodities and Monies returned, for the Fish they take. Whereas, we have not One Ship of War built or maintained thereby; Nor Mariners bred up (or very few comparitively of equal Skill, Hardiness or Strength, for Labour or Service) Nor Trade by Fish considerable; But buy and are sup∣plied by our Neighbours, at so dear Rates, as none but Persons of great Estates can Eat Fish, with us. And moreover, Con∣sume and Spend our Coyn abroad, for the necessaries relating to our Manufactures; which, by the setting up this Trade, would be prevented and increased. And also, Our Towns on the Sea-Coasts, (destroyed or neglected, through the decay of the Fishe∣ry and Manufactures) might become Re-edified and Peopled. Our Publick Revenues would become Augmented, to a sufficien∣cy of preserving the Dominion of these Seas. Our Trade would be vastly spread, even to many unknown, or, at least, untraded Parts. Our poor and idle People would be maintained; and their Earnings in the Manufactures, relating to the Fishery, would ena∣ble them, both to buy Cloaths and Victuals; and save the vast Collections made every Year, for their Maintenance in Idleness

and Sloth. In short, We might hereby become the Mart of all Trade, and furnished at all times with Magazines and Stores of all sorts, both for War and Peace, for our selves and all our Neighbours; being better situated for Markets, than any other Trading Nation whatsoever: Which would multiply our Silver and Gold, and reduce it to its Par, as in our most Halcyon days.

Quest. If it be enquired, How shall this Affair be disposed, so as to prevent former Miscarriages and Discouragements?

Answ.

• 1. By a large Stock for carrying on the same, to the ut∣most extent it will bear.
• 2. By making a present entrance upon this Trade, by the Com∣pany, under the Constitution, Laws and Rules framed and fixed for that purpose.
• 3. By his Majesty's and the Parliaments further Grants of Aid, Countenance and Protection.

Obj. If it be alledged, 'Tis a time of War and Hazard, should it be now undertaken.

Sol. 1. There are several things requisite to be prepared and pro∣vided; Several Manufactures relating to the Trade to be Erected, and Persons to be trained up and employed therein for some time, before it can be actually engaged in (after some Stock is provided) in which, the Stock, as it comes in gradually, will be improved to the Adventures Advantage, for their Encouragement to begin the same. And, It may be hoped, the War will have an end.

2. There are several Fishing Places so situated, as that they may be made use of very profitably, without considerable, if any Ha∣zard, Loss or Damage: For that some Vessels will seldom need to lye or labour out of Sight and Protection of our own Shores: whereby we may be enabled to furnish our home Markets with Fish, at reasonable Rates.

3. If some Vessels should be Lost, the Stock being great, and managed by a Corporation for a Joynt accompt the damage would scarce be felt, and soon recovered, in so gainful a Trade.

4. A small Convoy or Guard on such Coasts will secure them; which the Letters Patents provides for.

Obj. If it be said, We cannot build our Vessels, or Sail them, nor manage our Affairs to that advantage, that our Neighbours do.

Sol. Many such Objections have been cast in, and probably will be revived to discourage the Undertaking, by amusing Igno∣rant

Persons. But the Error thereof is before evinced, by the Collections aforesaid, to the full Satisfaction of all that consider what is written; Touching either the providing Timber and other Materials for Building Fishing Vessels; Or the rates of Buildings within his Majesty's Kingdoms and Dominions; Or the providing of Salt, both better and cheaper; Or the saving the Duties impo∣sed, both on the Salt, and the Exportation of the Fish, &c. Or the conveniencies of our situation for Exporting the same, to Countries that will take them off: And many other things obser∣vable out of what is Collected as aforesaid. To which might have been added, an Abstract of Sr. Roger Le Strange his brief Treatise, to that purpose, entituled, A Discourse of the Fishery; briefly laying open not only the Advantages and Facility of the Under∣taking, but likewise, the absolute necessity of it, in order to the well being both of King and People. Printed Anno 1674. And,

Quest. If any be desirous to know, or have an estimate of the ordinary charge of Building and Equipping a Fishing Vessel of about Seaventy Tun, for the First Year of its setting out, and so afterwards for Twenty Years, in Repairing and Amending the same, and all its Furniture. As also, What may be the Annual Profits thereof one Year with another, &c.

Answ. None may presume on what depends on God's Provi∣dence and Blessing, in the most prudent and diligent management of this Affair, more than of any other Maritine and Merchantly Adventures. But, Computing the Particulars of Profit and Loss, by others Observations and Experiences, it may be reasonably expected, That the disburse of about One thousand Pounds, in Building, Equipping, Victualling, and Wages of a Fishing Vessel of about Seaventy Tun, may produce Cent. per Cent. per Annum. For, So have very prying and experienced Men in the Fishing Trade computed; And such estimate thereof has been formerly presented to a Committee of Parliament, appointed to enquire about the Fishery Affair; And is evidenced by a small Treatise, called Britain's Buss, Printed Anno 1615. and Re-printed Anno 1630. setting forth the particulars.

But, Supposing it to be but half so much, or one quarter, (viz. 25 l. per Cent. clear Gains) 'twere sufficient encouragement and motive to incite all Persons to be concerned therein by their Sub∣scriptions: And the rather, for that 'tis so essentially requisite to the Strength, Safety, Wealth and Trade of these Kingdoms; and therefore is worthy the most serious Consideration and Regard

of all true hearted English Men, of whatsoever Characters and Denominations amongst us; And ought accordingly to be so ma∣naged, as all the People of these Nations, who are able to con∣tribute towards the Stock thereof may be admitted so to do; and thereby become engaged in Interest, to stand by and defend the Rights and Privileges of these Kingdoms, in the Fishings aforesaid; and not to be limited within the sole Power and Advantage of a few, the first Subscribers of the first Stock (proposed for the entring upon this Affair) exclusive of after Subscriptions, to as far as the Trade and Affairs thereof will bear and require.

In order whereunto, the Company of the Royal Fishery of England, Incorporated as aforesaid, in prosecution of this great Affair and Design, have caused, as well the Letters Patents for their Incorporation, as the Constitution, Laws, and Articles, Terms or Conditions of Subscription, and bringing in Persons in∣to the said Company, to be Members of, or Traders, or Adven∣turers with them therein, to be fairly Ingrossed and Published in Books, to be exposed and opened for Subscriptions. As also, Ab∣stracts of them to be Printed and Published, in order to Persons having the Contents thereof before them for their Consideration, before they do Subscribe.

The present Stock proposed by them is Three hundred thousand Pounds; Or One hundred and fifty thousand Pounds (at least) to begin the same withal: 'Tis made payable at Ten several Quar∣terly Payments; and not any part thereof to be paid till Thirty days, from and after Notice or Publication of the compleating the said Subscriptions of the said first 150,000 l. As by their pub∣lick Advertisements may appear.

Out of all which, 'tis evident, That there is (1.) a legal Foundati∣on, viz. By Letters Patents or Charter from his late Majesty King Charles II. (2.) A regular Constitution and Laws, for the manage∣ment of the Affairs of the Company, so as may be both safe and easy; unto which all the Members of the Company are to Subscribe, for the conservation, observing and keeping the same inviolably. And, (3.) Considerable Encouragements to the Subscribers of the said first 300,000 l. Not only by their Re-imbursment of their Tenth, by the Subscribers of the next 300,000 l. as aforesaid, which is proposed to be allowed for the first Patentees, and such Disburs∣ments, Losses, Charges and Damages, as the Members of the Company have sustained, in the management and preserving the Patent, &c. in being, to this time; and other uses of the Com∣pany,

entrusted by the Constitution, to be distributed by the Tru∣stees of the Company; but by Three per Cent. allowed to the Sub∣scribers of the first One hundred and fifty thousand Pounds there∣of, out of their Three first Quarterly Payments, by equal propor∣tions: All which, notwithstanding, is also to be made good un∣to the Stock of the Company, by and out of the said tenth part, proposed as aforesaid.

And, to the end that Persons in Scotland and Ireland, and the remote Parts of England, might not be surprized or excluded the first Subscriptions and benefits thereof, (if they should think sit to begin so early) The Company, by their Order of the third day of June last, deferred their taking Subscriptions unto the third day of September following; and resolved, That should have been the day of opening their Books, for the said whole Sum of 300,000 l. And that they would speedily agree and notify the place or places for doing thereof: Which having been notified, Several worthy Persons of the City of London and Parts adjacent, became enga∣ged in Subscriptions and Promises, to the the value of about 50,000 l. (in case the Books should be then opened for that pur∣pose). Whereupon the Company thought meet to have their Books opened accordingly for such value. But,

Upon further Considerations, (as namely, That most Mem∣bers of Parliament, and others of the Nobility and Gentry, were out of Town, and were not likely to come sooner than about the beginning of the next Term: And, that it was meet for the Company to provide they should not be precluded of any ad∣vantages, proposed to the Subscribers of the first 300,000 l.) The Company therefore, by their further Order of the 31st day of August last, thought fit, upon the Subscriptions of the said 50,000 l. to restrain any further Subscriptions, or Opening of their Books for that purpose, until the Fourth day of November next: And having (in Nine days time) received Subscriptions of the said 50,000 l. they shut up their Books accordingly: And have ordered the same should be Published; and that they will no longer, than the said Fourth day of November next, delay the Subscriptions, that any Persons shall think fit further to make, for raising the said Stock, and settling their other Affairs, relating to the management thereof. And, in the mean time, will live in hopes of the Parliaments Confirmation of, and Additions to their Privileges, herein before mentioned, to have been formerly

granted to the Undertakers; Whereunto they are encouraged, by the Judgment of the Parliament of this Kingdom, decla∣red in the Preamble of an Act, past in the Fourteenth year of his late Majesty King Charles the Second, Cap. 28. wherein is this Expression, viz.

The Publick Honour, Wealth and Safety of this Realm, as well in the maintenance of Trade, and support of Navigation, as in many other Respects, doth in an high degree depend upon the Improvement of the Fishery, &c.

Which may be thus Paraphrased, viz. The Fish of the British Seas, and other his Majesty's Dominions, within the Grant afore-specified, (which costs us nothing but the taking) being added to our other useful and necessary Products and Manufa∣ctures, wherewith these Kingdoms and Dominions are Blessed, (beyond any other trading Nations of the World; wherein also consists the Honour of these Islands) may be Exported to double, yea treble the value of all necessary Imports of Mer∣chandizes from other Countries, And so must necessarily produce great Wealth of all kinds, and particularly plenty of Monies, for its Ballance. And, The Fishings train up multitudes of the hardiest and skilfullest Seamen for our other Navigations and Defence: In the improvement whereof Principally, lies the Safety and Strength of these Nations: And the situation of these Islands being such, as may justly challenge to be the Emporium or Mart of Trade beyond all others, We shall not need to fear the vent of such Sur∣plussage of such Imports, for ready Monies of all Countries who need them. And, if so, (not regarding the Malicious and Clan∣destine Whisperings and Backbitings of such as envy and bear ill will to our Nations Flourishing, under our present Government, and the ways and means proposed for the management of this Affair (which they understand little of) let all the Cordial Pro∣moters thereof be up and doing: And if our only Strength fail us not, we may bid Defiance in his Name to all the Might of Europe; which shall conclude this Subject: With this brief Ad∣vertisement of the Collector hereof, Touching the present State

of these Kingdoms, with respect to the present advance of our Gold and other Monies, above the common Standard and De∣nomination at which they are Coyned; viz. That the same is Impoverishing and Destructive to the Trade, Prosperity and Wealth of these Nations. That yet the Government may be eased of the burthen of our Clipped Monies, without charge or loss to the Nation; yea, to the great enriching thereof, and so as may tend to the carrying on the Fishery; The present War with the French, And all its Tradings whatsoever, To the excess of Profit and Commodity before mentioned; The methods and means of which he reserves to the further Prosecution of what he hath heretofore humbly proposed.