England's GLORY Revived, Demonstrated in several PROPOSITIONS.  
SHOWING An easy and speedy Method for fully Maning the Royal Navy with Sailors; without Charge, or Obstruction to Trade.  
AS LIKEWISE Reasons proving from whence all our Losses have happened, with proper Remedies for the better securing of Trade for the future; by making due Provision for all Sailors that shall be wounded (or the Widows and Children of such of them as shall be Slain) in the Public Service, or in Defence of our Ships of Trade, and the Building of Hospitals in all the Ports of the Kingdom: All which may be done without any Charge to the Government.  
As likewise Propositions for an Act of Tonnage.  
By ROBERT CROSFEILD.  
LONDON: Printed in the Year MDCXCIII.   

To the King and Queen's most Excellent Majesties.  
MAny Endeavours have been used whereby to take off that Heavy Burden that hath lain upon Trade during the whole Course of this War, and to secure it from the Violence of the Enemy, though most have hitherto proved ineffectual: But I have (I humbly conceive) found out an Expedient that will remove those Mischiefs, and the Trade of the Nation thereby be protected and preserved, and likewise your Majesty's Royal Navy may in little time be fully Manned, without giving any obstruction to Trade.  
Which with all Humility I do lay at your Royal Feet, in hopes that you will graciously Accept, and Countenance these my Undertake: Not doubting, but to see England Flourish, and Regain its Ancient Glory under the happy Influence of your Majesty's most Auspicious Reign; and by your Royal Endeavours in few years, see Europe in perfect Peace and Tranquillity.  
And that God may Bless and Prosper your Majesties and the Confederates Arms, is the daily Prayer of  
Your Majesty's Most Faithful and Loyal Subject & Most Dutiful and Devoted Servant Robert Crosfeild.   

To the Right Honourable the Lords Spiritual and Temporal, and Commons in Parliament Assembled.  
Whoever with an Impartial Eye, shall behold the Constitution of the English Monarchy, must acknowledge it the best Established Government in the World; and whose Parliaments are, (and have been) the Glory of their Prince, the Bulwark of the People, and the Terror of their Enemies; and whenever there was that happy Union between King and Parliament which we have now the Blessing to Enjoy, it hath begot an Excellent Harmony; and Great and Glorious Actions have been performed by our Ancestors, to their Immortal Fame; who have often made the gallic Shore to Tremble: And I apprehend there hath nothing been wanting in the Subject, that the same things have not been again effected; but the Defect hath been in those Measures that have been taken.  
Therefore I do humbly present these ensuing Propositions (in the same Form they were delivered to the Lords of the Admiralty) in which may be seen (as in a Glass) the Source from whence our Evils have sprung: And with all due submission do humbly conceive, that the whole matter carries so much of Reason along with it, that I think its unanswerable. Not that I have any Opinion I have managed the Argument so well; but there are some Truths that may be easily evidenced, and which require not those exquisite Parts which are necessary in more abstruse Matters, and may be performed by a Man of but indifferent Education.  
Trade is altogether of as great Consequence and Importance to this Nation, as the Nerves and Sinews are to the Body of Man; which being Cut, is debilitated and weakened: So if our Trade be ruined we shall be Impoverished, and become a Prey to our Enemies. But I fear my Zeal will transport me beyond my Bounds; for I plainly see, that the Happiness of Europe, and the very Existence and Wellbeing of the Protestant Religion, and Welfare of these Kingdoms, depend upon the Success of this War.  
And God hath given us Strength and Ability, whereby we may be able to Cope with our Enemies, and Reduce them to Reason.  
But hitherto we have not taken such proper Measures in our Naval Preparations as we ought, which (I humbly conceive) hath been the Genuine Cause and Foundation of all our Misfortunes and Losses at Sea during this War; and which hath greatly impaired their Majesty's Revenue, and the Trade of the Nation.  
There can no Revolution happen in any Kingdom, be it never so Just, but there will be some Malcontents; and the nearer Ruin their Cause is, so much the more will they struggle in it, (being like the Convulsions of a dying Man) and use all Arts, and turn themselves into all shapes, so they may but possibly disorder the public Proceedings of the Kingdom.  
And now are the Eyes of this Nation, and all Europe, upon this August Assembly, waiting the Issue of the Debates thereof, which being Vigorous and Early (Money being the Sinews of War) will beget the like Vigour and Resolution in the Allies, and prevent the French King from making any separate Peace, which (by his Emissaries) he hath with so much Industry endeavoured, as knowing he must sink under the wait of the Confederate Arms.  
But it astonishes me, when I consider that two Nations, who are so Potent at Sea as we and the Dutch are, should not make a more advantageous use of that strength which God hath given us: The being strongest at Sea, was ever an unspeakable advantage; which is apparent to the whole World that we are, notwithstanding those Losses we have had.  
And we may plainly see that the Providence of God generally works and brings things to pass by Natural Causes and Effects, as may evidently be seen by the late Revolution in this Kingdom; for it was by the Evil Administration of Government, under various Circumstances of Affairs, that contributed to it, and which gave just ground and occasion for it; and was that which turned the Hearts of the People, and thereby begat a Union of Parties, and was the great outward Cause of our present Settlement.  
Therefore in vain will it be for us to cry unto God for Help, and to give a Blessing to our Endeavours, when we take not apt and proper Measures.  
And it seems highly unreasonable his Majesty should be so much exposed to the Violence of the Enemy, to the great hazard of his Royal Person; upon whose Safety depends not only the happiness of these Kingdoms, but all Europe; and he hath hitherto been obliged to attend the Motions of the Enemy, and to take his Measures according as they move; which brought his Person into Imminent danger.  
Therefore with all due Submission I humbly conceive, that notwithstanding all the utmost Efforts that can be made, it's morally impossible of making any Impression upon the French in Flanders, they being so strong on that side, but by making a Descent upon their Maritime Coast, if not to Conquer, yet to commit the same Depredations they have done upon our Neighbouring Nations; that they may Drink, and have their share of the Cup of Affliction, and feel the dismal Effects of War: Nothing can possibly wound the Enemy like it, if it be carried on by a Conjunction of some of the Forces of the Confederates, and backed by a strong Fleet.  
Then would it soon alter the Scene, and distract the Councils, and break the Measures of the Enemy; as not knowing where the Storm will fall; which will consequently oblige them to make a Defensive War in all Parts; and would England but Exert its Strength, I doubt not but it would soon pull down the Pride and Haughty Look of that Aspiring Monarch, whose Insatiable Ambition is such, that he hath made Europe a Golgotha, a Field of Blood.  
And there's nothing like pushing on the War with Vigour; a Linger Consumption being worse than Death. least, rendered all Attempts of this Nature more difficult.  
And it was ever the Genius and Temper of the English, (as do witness their Wars both Foreign and Domestic) to push on a War, and come to Action, leaving the Event to Providence.  
And whereas the Number of Loose and Vagrant Persons are exceedingly increased in the Kingdom through the Laws not being duly put in Execution, and the King having ever had a Power of taking these up by Warrants from the Justices of the Peace to be sent on Board the Royal Navy.  
Therefore I humbly conceive, it would much Contribute to the Public Service, that his Majesty may have the same Liberty (by Act of Parliament) of taking them up by the same Methods, and Employ them as he shall think fit, either in mixing them with the Regular Troops, or otherwise; which would be the Raising of several Thousands of stout and able Men, fit for Service, who are now but Drones, and as it were the Vermin of the Land; but by these means may be made Serviceable to the Public; and a great Kindness it will be to all Parts of the Kingdom. I am  
My Lords and Gentlemen, Your Honours most Faithful and Obedient Servant Robert Crosfeild.   

TO THE READER.  
I Here present to your View some Propositions, which I hope may be of use to the Public and Posterity, for which they were intended: But as I have handled the matter but weakly (though to the best of my Skill) so it is evident through the whole Book, that it may be much improved.  
But having observed with much Regret, under what unhappy Circumstances things lay in reference to Sea-Affairs, and matters growing daily worse and worse, by our Merchants being so long detained in Port, to the great damage of their Majesties, and the whole Kingdom; I conceived there must be some Natural Obstruction that occasioned it, or that there must be some great defect in those Measures that were taken; and by long ruminating upon the matter, my thoughts suggested to me, that I had discovered from whence those Evils did proceed, which after having drawn into some Form, I then presumed to Address myself to the Government; and now have ventured to expose myself to the Censure of the World: And it's not any vain desire of Applause that hath induced me thus to appear in Print, but a due Sense of that Duty which I owe to their Majesties and my Native Country; for I was under much and great Reluctancy, before I could bring myself to a Resolution of doing it; and not without just Cause: For I was not bred a Scholar, nor ever was concerned either in Shipping or Custom-house Affairs. So that if these things prove successful (as I have no great reason to doubt) then must I wholly attribute it to the Hand of Providence.  
'Tis the Opinion of a great many, and those Good Men too, that we have been betrayed, and a general Outcry there is of it through the Town and Kingdom, and prosecuted with much Heat; and I believe it as much as they: But 'tis the sins of the Nation which have betrayed us, (this is no imposing at all, or any desire I have of being Advocate for any) But setting them aside, and calmly weighing and considering things, it will be found, that otherwise the Original of all our Misfortunes arise from those Methods that are taken for the supplying the Royal Navy with Sailors; and this being but the Effects of Natural Causes, I hope no Man will be Offended, if I do in a great measure make it so appear, if he will seriously and impartially peruse the ensuing Discourse before he gives Judgement; for so long as these Methods continue in use, we can humanely expect no better success.  
War was always an Enemy to Trade, and Losses will come whenever it's on foot, notwithstanding all the Industry that can be used; but it's seldom a Nation doth obstruct and annoy its own Trade; but that hath been our misfortune. For, for near half the year all Ports have in them those that are Enemies both to King and Kingdom, though not in Person or Affection, yet being armed with Power do obstruct Trade, and prevent the Merchants from making their several Voyages, who would carry off the Product of the Country: By which means the King loses vast Sums of Money, and the Trade of the Nation's greatly impaired. It's the Press Ketches which are guilty of all this; and it's by reason of their slowness and difficulty they meet with in getting Men for their Majesty's Service, which is the grand Cause why our Merchants have been so long detained in Port; and they and the Coasters have been so much exposed to the Violence of the Enemy.  
Therefore those Methods we have hitherto taken, (being the same that were in use an Hundred Years ago) will not do in this Age.  
So it's from our being wanting to ourselves in our Maritime Affairs, and not making due Provision for the Sailors, which hath been the Fountain from whence our Evils have sprung, and not from any great Force of the Enemy.  
Notwithstanding all this, the Sailors are as Zealous for the Public Service as any Men in the Kingdom; but Interest and Self-preservation is that which governs the Actions of Men; and there is now a great Incongruity between the Sailor's Interest (as shall be made appear) and that of the Public; and so long as that remains, it must always be expected they will decline the Public Service. But if the Government will be pleased to put the first of these Propositions in execution, and pass the second into an Act, then will they be Consentaneous.  
For by them the Sailor's Wages will be reduced, and as there will be little odds between the King's Pay, and that of Merchantmen; so they will have no cause to shun the Service, neither indeed can they; and their Encouragement to it will be great, for they will have the benefit of enjoying two Charities, whereas those on Board Ships of Trade can enjoy but one.  
I cannot without Amazement, call to mind his most Gracious Majesties great Courage, Bravery and Conduct in the late Battle at Landen, which was to the Astonishment of his Enemies: But at the same time tremble, to think to what Dangers he exposed his Royal Person for our Safeties; for should he have fallen, our Candlestick would have been removed, and our Church and Nation have become a Prey to our Enemies; but God of his wonderful Providence hath protected him, and reserved him for greater Actions, and no doubt will make him the Blessed Instrument of restoring Peace to Europe.  
It must be acknowledged things lie heavy (but no ways to be compared to that Deplorable Condition unto which France is reduced) yet we have the least reason to complain of any Nation in Europe that is engaged in this War; for we have sat down in the midst of Peace, while our Neighbouring Nations (and Countrymen) have been shedding their Blood abroad; and they have had their Countries exposed to the Ravage of the Enemy, and Violence of Armies, and have willingly undergone all this, that they may obtain a durable and lasting Peace.  
Therefore let us not repine, but cheerfully assist his Majesty in prosecuting so Just and Honourable a War; and doubt not but the same Hand of Providence which so wonderfully delivered us, will still protect us, and Bless our Arms, that we may bring it to a happy Period, and every Man sit down in Peace under his own Vine.  
At the first blooming of the Gospel, in the very Apostles times, we may see that there were Disputes in the Church, and Men had different Conceptions of things; but yet we find, they were still guided by a Spirit of Meekness and Charity to each other, according to the dictates of that holy Religion they professed; but this Age in which we live is much deviated, and fallen from that Love and Union which was so Conspicuous in the Primitive Christians, and which the Word of God so positively Commands and Directs: But the Excess and Viciousness of men's Lives are now such, that more are destroyed by it, than devoured by the Sword.  
And so long as we continue these uncharitable and unchristian Feuds, and practise these Immoralities, we can have little reason to expect the Divine Goodness should shower down Blessings upon us, but rather have a fearful Expectation of judgement for our Impieties, Sin being always the forerunner thereof.  
Therefore let us seriously consider these things, and repent before it be too late, then may we with Comfort look up: For God doth not willingly afflict the Children of Men, or any People or Nation, but for the Sins of the Inhabitants thereof; For like as a Father pitieth his Children, so is the Lord merciful unto them that fear him: For he knoweth the Frame of Man that he is but Dust.  
But the generality of People among us seem much unconcerned as to public Affairs, otherwise than in hearing and telling of News: But let every individual person be well assured, that a great Duty and Obligation lies upon him in reference to the obtaining National Mercies and Blessings; and it cannot be conceived that a bare Observation of a Monthly Fast (during the time of Action) can obtain them; for we can never expect them, unless we daily and fervently beg them of God.  
Therefore let us with all Humility wrestle and contend with him for a Blessing upon this Land; but first let us do all Acts of Mercy and Compassion, then may we with the greater Assurance approach the Throne of Grace.   


King be engaged in a War, the Government must be first served; and the private give way to the Public Interest.  
But yet notwithstanding, there's an absolute necessity of preserving our Coasting Trade, for the supplying London and other Parts with Coals, Corn, etc.  
There's no Arguments I can offer will bear any thing like unto matter of Fact; and if your Lordships will be pleased to look back to the preceding years, you will find, That after their Majesty's Fleet hath been fully Manned, and at Sea, there hath been notwithstanding no want of Sailors to carry on the Coasting Trade, as it hath evidently appeared; and when it hath met with Obstructions, it hath been occasioned by having so many Privateers on the Coast, and the want of necessary Convoys: So that its apparent that there is a sufficient Body of Sailors whereby to answer the Ends of the Government, and the Necessities of Trade, as will be farther demonstrated in this ensuing Discourse, with the Cause why the Public is not more timely served; and the Reasons of it seem to be plain: For there are a very great number of Sailors that abscond and hide, till such time the Fleet is out; and if they can afterwards use the Coasting Trade, or make some Voyage for five or six months' time, they will get more Money than the King's Pay will amount to in the whole year, and have their Pay so soon as their Voyage is over; whereas the Public is always in Arrears, and it's but Natural for every Man to pursue his own Interest: And withal, these Men are not unsensible that if they lose their Limbs, or are Maimed, that the Fate of them generally is, that they become Vagabonds, notwithstanding they receive the Kings Pay during Life; it not being a sufficient Maintenance. The Sailors thus using all the Industry they can to avoid the public Service, and the ways taken to bring them in being so Dilatory. Indeed, the want of due Convoys is the Grand Occasion of the Exorbitant Wages now given in the Coasting Trade.  
As to the Outward-bound Shipping, who carry off the Product of the Country, it must must be acknowledged on all Hands, that they ought to have the Preference above all others, so far as is Consistent with Government: For it's the Foreign Trade that makes this Nation Potent and Happy, and not that within ourselves: It's from thence all our Riches flow; 'tis that which brings the Bullion and Coin into the Kingdom. Besides, our Plantations abroad cannot subsist without frequent Supplies from us; and of what great Consequence they are I need not say. And 'tis our Outward Trade which is a Support to a great part of the Body of the People of this Kingdom; and if that be long obstructed, they must Languish. Therefore if any hardship must lie upon Shipping, it may, with submission, I think be rather thrown upon the Coasting Trade, as being the least Evil, and the soon Remitted.  
For suppose Coals are now at Thrity Shillings a Cauldron, and by reason that the Government Press so many of the Collier's Men, that few Ships pass between Newcastle and London; for which reason they run up to Fifty Shillings a Cauldron; it would not be long before this might be Remitted, (if there be but due Convoys, and some Frigates constantly to Cruise on the Northern Coast) for the People that live upon the Coast will be drawn into the Service by reason of the great. Wages given; And there is Shipping frequently coming in, which would supply the Colliers. In September the great Ships are usually laid up, and those Men may be dismissed; and then there could be no want: However, it was never yet known that we suffered in our Coasting Trade through the want of Men. But the fear that Men have been in of being Pressed, or having many Privateers on the Coast, and not having necessary Convoys: These have been the only and true Causes of it when it hath happened. We see in this our Age almost all Arts and Sciences greatly improved, and why not things of this Nature; and I humbly conceive, that if those Propositions I have made were put in execution, it would not only much expedite our Public Affairs, but also encourage and enliven Trade during this War. I am, etc.   
Some Time after the Delivery of this, I did wait on their Lordships, destring to know the Result of the Matter; and they were pleased to give me a very obliging Answer; which was this: That the Fleet was out; and they could not now put my Propositions in Execution; when they did, I should hear from them.  
The 18th of August last I delivered in this ensuing Paper.  

Right Honourable,  
IN my Propositions which lie before your Lordships, I say, That when the Great Ships are laid up, those Sailors on Board may be discharged: and the Season of the Year now coming on for so doing, I conceive myself obliged to give my Reasons for it, in regard it will greatly promote their Majesties and the Public Interest; and humbly conceive, that when these Men are dismissed, the Government will have no Occasion for them till Spring following: and if it be but calculated what the Charge will be in keeping them in Pay till that Time, it will be found to be an immense Sum. No Objection can be made whereby to hinder or retard the doing it, but the Exigents the Government may afterwards be driven to for want of these Men. But Arguments have and shall be given, to prove that cannot possibly happen. Therefore whatever Hardship or Pressures may other ways lie, some Expedient must be found for Raising Money to pay these Men, so as they go off satisfied. This will not only be saving the King and Kingdom great Sums of Money, but there will naturally arise from it, that which will be of Public Advantage: for many of them will fall to the Coasting Trade; by which means Coals and other Goods will be kept or brought down to moderate Rates. Some may take to Privateering; which, if duly encouraged, will increase the Number, and be of great Use to the Nation; for they won't only annoy the Enemy, but be a Protection to our Merchants and Coasting Trade: Others will make Voyages abroad; as, to Spain, Portugal, etc. and return before the Government will have Occasion for them: and a Nation depending so much upon Trade as we do, the uttermost Diligence and Industry must be used to preserve it: and I humbly conceive, that it hath now more fully appeared, that there is a sufficient Number of Sailors to answer the Ends of Government and Trade; as hath been apparently evident this Summer, as well as the preceding Years; for when the Royal Navy was fully Manned and at Sea, there was a very great Fleet of Outward-bound Ships that then Sailed; and at the same Time above 600 Sail of Colliers moving that use the Newcastle Trade, (besides other Coasters) as appears by the Gazettes of the 8th and 12th of June last. Moreover, we had several Fleets came in from abroad the same Month; and at the same time had Shipping in almost all Parts of the World: and no sooner was the Grand Fleet out, but the Wages in the Newcastle Trade sunk 30 s. a Voyage, and in all Probability had fallen much lower, had it not been for the many Privateers which all along infested the Coast. All which gives undeniable Evidence that there is no Want of Men; and that when the Season of the Year comes, those Propositions I have made may be put in Execution, without any possibility of Damage to Trade: It's so far from that, that a great deal of Good will flow from it. And I conceive I can no ways better make it appear, than in first laying open the Ill that attends the making Use of the Press-Ketches, which will we found to be of very ill Consequence to the Government, and pernicious to Trade. These may seem to be very harsh Terms; but doubt not but your Lordships will find I shall make good the Charge; for when they have received their Warrants for Impressing of Men, and sail to some Port (they no sooner appear but the Sailors abscond for Reasons before given) where they continue for some time; when they sail away, in some small time others come into Port; sometimes two or three; so for the most part it continueth thus the Winter Season. The Spring coming on, and the Government finding a want of Sailors for Manning the Royal Navy, lay an Embargo to such a Time, (in the Interim these Ketches are employed to get them); that being expired, yet still they want; upon which the Embargoes renewed to a longer time; and that being expired, yet they have not their Compliment of Men: So that the Embargoes renewed from Time to Time; (or if it be one continued Embargo without Limitation it's the same). All this arises from the Dilatoriness of the Press-Ketches; for the Government can do no less than lay an Embargo when there is a Want of Men (our Fleet, under God, being the greatest Security we have). But by these Means the Merchants are exceedingly discouraged, and prevented in making their several Voyages; which they might do, and return before the Government had Occasion for the Men. Likewise their Majesty's Revenues are greatly impaired, by not having those Duties paid (both Inward and Outward) which otherwise would be: and the Nation suffers exceedingly, in not having that Vend for their native Commodities that otherwise they might. All which must consequently impoverish the People.  
We are happy in our Situation, in not being liable to the Incursions of the Enemy; and exposed to that Ravage our neighbouring Nations have felt and undergone, from the Hands of a barbarous and cruel Foe. But we shall have no Cause to fear them, if we take but such Measures, whereby to protect our Trade from their Privateers, which greatly afflict all the Coast (which they always pour out upon us after they have laid up their great Ships; and by their late Attempt upon the straits Fleet, it's visible they more aim to ruin our Trade than to Fight us). Then would Money circulate well at home, the Subject be made easy, and Trade flourish. And did we consider the Large Seacoasts of this Kingdom, with the many Ports and Harbours therein, with the numerous Body of Seafaring People thereof; we might rationally conclude, that there is no Nation in Europe able to equip such a Fleet to Sea as we are, if we take but proper Methods; and their Majesties may be as absolute Sovereigns of the British Seas as ever their Predecessors were when the Laws of Oleron were made.  
In all that I have said, I have no Design of Reflecting upon any Persons, by thus exposing those Methods that are taken; for they are the same that our Forefathers used, and from them we received 'em; so none to be blamed: But if it appear better may be taken, that will prove more useful, it cannot but be thought reasonable to lay them aside.  
But by so doing it's not improbable, but that it may ruin the Interest of some well-deserving persons; however, theirs must not stand in Competition, being Incompatible with that of the Public, and the Government may other ways make them Compensation. I will humbly suppose now, that were the time and season proper to put those Propositions in Execution, and it were accordingly done, it would be found, that there would be more Men taken than the King would have occasion for; so that many of them might be discharged.  
The Consequence of this would be, that all Embargoes would Cease that are occasioned by the King's want of Men; then all Shipping will be free, and Trade laid open; and the Merchant and Coaster will soon be supplied with Men, as hath appeared. And when these Men are in Custody, Shipping may be taken up in each Port, to Convoy them to those where their Majesty's Ships Ride; and be Convoyed by some Frigates appointed for that purpose: Then those Vessels may be Discharged. By these means a vast Charge will be cut off which attended the Press-Ketches, (Calculated by Cap. St. Lo at 60000 l. per an.) and that heavy Burden that lay upon Trade, occasioned by the use of them, will be thrown off, and the Merchants left to pursue their several Voyages.  
I have no desire to appear in Print, being only Ambitious to serve their Majesties, whose Innate Goodness is such, that I have no Reason to doubt, but that they will be pleased to extend their most gracious Favour towards me.    

PROPOSALS HOW Their Majesties May be Supplied with a sufficient Body of Sailors, FOR Manning the Royal NAVY in a few Days space, and with little or no Charge.  

Proposition I.  
THAT the Lords of the Admiralty be pleased to Issue out Press-Warrants to the Surveyors, and other Officers, of all the Ports of the Kingdom, that they Press all Seamen that are in their Respective Ports, that are not already in their Majesty's Service; it being well known that there are many in all Ports that will not enter themselves into their Majesty's Services; not out of Prejudice; but because they Love not Danger; and are more afraid of losing their Limbs than their Lives; and it's but natural to all Men to seek self preservation.   

Prop. II.  
The Officers of the Customhouse are actually in their Majesty's Service during their good behaviour, and no longer; and have their present subsistence from the Government, and their future livelihood depends upon the same; and living upon the Place must have a better knowledge of the Sailors, than others; so that they will be careful to execute such Orders as they shall receive from above from time to time.   

Prop. III.  
The Officers of the Custom-house being thus empowered, may with much ease take up most of the Sailors of the Kingdom (than on Shore) at one and the same time, by reason of the circular Letters, as in the first Proposition. It's quite otherways in the case of the Press-Ketches; for they no sooner arrive in Port, but the Sailors fly up into the Country, or otherwise abscond, and appear not so long as the Press-Ketch remains there. This is a plain truth to all Men; so that the King is at a vast charge, and little good ensues upon it.   

Prop. IU.  
The Surveyor of each Port boards every Ship at or before she cometh to an Anchor; so that he may command what Men they have: It may be done with much ease, only by taking into custody the Ships Boat, so that all means of making their escape will be cut off: But great care must be taken of the Ship, that the Merchant suffer not. These inward bound Ships would constantly supply the Fleet during the Summer's season.   

Prop. V.  
That the Surveyor of each Port give Advice to the Lords of the Admiralty, what Men he hath in Custody, that timely care may be taken that they be sent to those Ports, where Their Majesty's Ships Ride, and that the Collector of each Port pay the charge of the Impressed Men during their being in Custody.  
Objections may be Raised, more than I am capable to discover: One will be, That it will obstruct the King's Business, and bring an Inconveniency upon the Merchant. I conceive it will do neither; for the Officers of the Custom House are obliged, by Act of Parliament, to give their Attendance but at such and such Hours, and there is a great part of the Day wherein they may do the King's Business in this Affair; and it will be much easier for them to do it, than any other Persons.  
And with all due Submission, I cannot see any occasion of making use of the Press-Ketches for the future; for in effect, every Surveyor in each Port acts the same thing, so that it may be said, That there is a Press-Ketch in every Port of the Kingdom, besides the Officers on shore. If these Methods are taken, then there will be no occasion of taking up Loose and Labouring People in London, as is practised every Year, who not being Inur'd to the Sea, in a little time, serve to no other end, than to fill the Hospitals, and breed Distempers on Shipboard. And this may be executed with as much ease, as laying an Embargo; for the Sailors cannot possibly avoid being taken; for they may very well be compared to Amphbious Creatures, who, as they cannot long live out of the water; no more can they long subsist out of some Port: This will give the Government an opportunity of being at Sea, so soon as they shall think fit; from whence much good will ensue to the Public, and to Trade, by having our Merchants Protected.    

PROPOSITIONS Humbly Offered For the Support and Maintenance Of all such SAILORS That shall be Wounded or Maimed In the Public Service, (Including all Privateers) Or in defence of our Ships of Trade.  Done by Robert Crosfeild. 

BY all the observations I can make from that little reading which I have had, I apprehend the Roman's to have been the Noblest and the most generous People that have been in any Age; and who took great care, and made provision for those who were wounded in their service, by planting them in Colonies, and giving them a competent Maintenance, which was no doubt a great encouragement to their Soldiery, and one grand cause of the enlargement of their Territories, which in the time of Julius Caesar was grown to a great extent.  
And that Governmenr that will expect to arrive to any Potency, must give all due encouragement and rewards, to such as are instruments of promoting the same. And the Grandeur and Power of the Crown of England and welfare of the People depending so much upon Trade, all imaginable encouragement should be given to Shipping and Sailors who bring the Riches into the Kingdom.  
And, I conceive, we have been much wanting to ourselves, in not making due provision for the Sailors; therefore judge it a thing highly necessary to be looked into, being that which will greatly promote Navigation, and increase their Numbers.  
And as the Romans were sedulous in taking care to provide for their Soldiery, so much the more ought we to study the interest of the Sailors upon whom the welfare of these Kingdoms doth very much depend. The matter that I have to propose on their hebalf is, that such of them as shall lose their Limbs or be maimed in the public Service, or in defence of our Ships of Trade (and so made uncapable of getting their Livelihood) may have due Provision made for them during Life, and to be punctually paid quarterly; which will not only be an inducement to Men to be bold and brave on board the Royal Navy, but it will likewise make them resolute in Defence of our Merchantmen; as knowing if they have the misfortune to be Maimed or lose their Limbs, they shall have a competent Provision made for them; and I would humbly propose to extend this so far, that if any Man be slain, and leave a Wife and two or three Children behind him (as it may be the Case of many) they shall receive the same Pension for seven years as if he were living; and all this may be done without any Charge to the Government.  
And those who are concerned will have no just cause of complaint: So that this would plainly be an inducement to many thousands of People to take to the Sea, who are now afraid of it, for fear of losing their Limbs, and becoming Vagabonds, whereas, on Shore, they live free from any such danger; but if such Provision were made, that Obstacle would be Removed.  
And I not only conceive it to be the Interest of the Nation, but an Action humane and Christian; to make Provision for such, as are not capable of doing it themselves.  
And I do apprehend there will much good and many advantages arise from this Charity, much more than is to be discerned at first sight, and will have a great influence many ways.  
By it many Merchant men will be prevented falling into the Enemy's Hands.  
For as things now stand the Sailors can have little Courage to fight and oppose the Enemy, knowing if they are Maimed they are utterly ruined, notwithstanding they do beat off the Enemy; for if the Owners do but pay them their Wages, it's as much as they are obliged to.  
And certainly there can be no greater hardship in the World than these poor men's case is, who by their courage and bravery often preserve the Merchant's effects, and bring great Riches into the Kingdom, and at the same time it's there unhappy fate to lose their Limbs, and by it are ever after made Miserable: This is too much Matter of Fact and Truth.  
And no doubt it's the apprehension of these things that makes many Ships resign to the Enemy, as knowing the greatest loss is their Wages, and they will not venture their Limbs for other Men.  
There's just reason to believe this, for we have many instances of some of our shipping who have defended themselves from the Algerines, and other Pirates to admiration, and bravely acquitted themselves from them to their great Honour, and advantage of their Merchants and Owners; but it was not so much love to them as kindness to themselves, that made them so resolute, being sensible what misery they should undergo, if they should be taken. So we see the apprehension of misery will make Men stout, and Rewards will have the same effect; but if they are in danger of being taken by our Enemy's Privateers, they have now no such fear upon them, and their loss not great, so that they will not venture their lives to that degree, they might and ought for the good of the public only, for want of that due encouragement that Men should have; and if there were such provision made for them, no Men under the Copes of Heaven would be more bold and brave; and it's but for Bread that these poor Men Blow the Seas, and if they have a reasonable prospect of enjoying that, they will fear nothing.  
And we cannot grudge them that which Principally proceeds from their own labours.  
And things being thus established upon these Foundations will be an extraordinary encouragement for Men to take to the Seas, as seeing a fairer prospect of raising themselves that way, than by any labour or service by Land.  
Having this assurance, that if they should be Maimed yet they should not want.  
Which is that which Men generally fear more than Death.  
And one great advantage may be made to the public, by this being passed into an Act, viz. that by these means, that all Sailors whatever that have Pay due to them from the Government, shall relinquish one moiety; and this can no ways appear any hardship upon them: For what Man is there under their circumstances that would not willingly withgo a greater debt, that by so doing shall be assured of a maintenance for Life, in case he grow into years and past labour, or happen to be maimed, and so made uncapapable of getting his Livelihood; they can lay no claim to it, so can pretend no Title to it; therefore it's but reasonable they should make an acknowledgement to the Government, for passing such an Act in their favour.  
This would soon reduce the extravagant ways that Sailors now have, and in little time they would fall to the old rate, notwithstanding it be time of War, which would be a great benefit to all Coasters, Merchants and Owners, as likewise an ease to the People in General. We may in great measure judge the benefit that may be reaped by this being passed into an Act, by taking notice of the several Offices erected in this Town for the Insurance of Houses from Fire, particularly that which is called the Friendly Society, where so many Persons have mutually subscribed to each other upon such conditions, as it's looked upon to be a very good Security; for many persons may help one or two with little detriment to themselves, which otherwise would be ruined: But this is a matter more extensive, as being National, and of much greater consequence than they are; but differs not much in nature, being an Insurance as well as they, and so properly enough may be called Insurance Mony.  
And it's past all dispute or controversy, that all due encouragement should be given to Sailors so far as is consistent with their Circumstances and the rules of Government.  
If an Abstract be but taken of all Entries made in all Ports of the Kingdom for one year, than a true estimate may be made, and all errors removed; as likewise what this following Act of Tonnage may amount to.   

Prop. I.  
That all Shipping using the Coasting Trade, that exceed not one hundred Tun burden, do pay to the Collector of the Port one Shilling each Voyage. But all those that are above one hundred Tun, do pay two Shillings; the Sailors to pay one half of this when they receive their Wages, proportionable to their share, according to the Number of Hands on Board; the other part to be charged to the Bottom.   

Prop. II.  
That all outward and inward bound Ships that are not above one hundred Tun, do pay four Shillings: All Vessels that are upwards of one hundred Tun, do pay eight Shillings. But all Vessels to or from Turkey, or the East Indies, do pay sixteen Shillings; one half of these to be paid by the Sailors when they receive their Wages, according to the Number of Hands on Board, the other part to be charged upon the Bottom. This may seem a hardship, but will be found none; neither Owners nor Sailors will feel it; and no more, but what they will both earnestly desire may be done.   

Prop. III.  
That all Vessels whatever, that use the Herring Fishing, shall pay eight Shillings for the Season; one moiety to be paid by the Men, the other to be charged to the Bottom. That all Fisher-Boats whatever pay four Shillings a year: That the Western Barges, and all other Barges whatever, all Lighters, Smacks Hoys, Newcastle and Sunderland Keels, etc. do pay Four Shillings a Year; all these to be Registered in the several Ports; and that all these persons do bring in and pay the Money to the Collector by such a time, and upon default thereof to pay such a Mulct as by Parliament shall be thought fit; one part of these to be paid by the Men, the other to be charged to the Bottom.  
This is so small and inconsiderable a charge that no Man can complain; and altho' there are some of these that use not the Sea, but having their dependence upon Trade, it's highly reasonable they should contribute towards the support thereof.   

Prop. IU.  
That the Collector in each Port receive and keep this Money from Quarter to Quarter, and give security for the same; but be liable to give an account, and pay it to the trusties in each Port, who shall be ordered to dispose of the same; and some one of those trusties shall give security to the Overseers, because there may be growing Money in his Hands which otherwise may be imbeziled; and that these trusties shall always be liable to give an account to the said Overseers, when and so often as they shall think fit. By these means all abuses and corruptions may be prevented.  
That the Collector of each Port give to the Master of every respective Vessel, a Receipt for this Money without Fee; and that he carry this to the Ierker for him to enter upon it the said Master and Sailor's Names, with the Name of the Ship on which they are on Board, this to be done without Fee, and to be filled and Registered. Now this will be a great help to the Sailor, in his proving on what Vessel he was on Bored, and likewise be a means to prevent their imposing upon the trusties: But it shall be lawful for each Collector to deduct three pence in the Pound out of all moneys passing through his Hands, to be disposed of, as shall be thought fit for his and the Jerkers trouble in this affair.  
It being a matter designed for the good of the Sailor, and not to the advantage of any Port where the Money is paid (further than for the use of the Sailors allotted to them by Act of Parliament) so that if there be any overplus of Money in Newcastle or any other Port without exception; it shall be lawful for the Overseers to take it, to supply the Wants of others: The intention of the thing being to relieve the want of the Sailors in general; but if there be any overplus of Money beyond this, it shall farther be in the said Overseers power to build Hospitals in the several Ports, for the use of the wounded Sailors, or the Widows and Children of such as are slain, or such of them as are ancient and past their labour; but then they shall be built in those Ports where the Money was raised.  
That twenty Overseers or more be nominated, and they to be Persons of Honour, to overlook and inspect into the actions of the trusties; and if it appear to them that they have abused their trust, than it shall be in their power, or any ten of them (without any suit at Law) to nominate others, however they shall live in or near the Port; that a Clerk be assigned to the Over seers, who shall keep in a Book fairly written, an account of all the Ports in the Kingdom, and the several Collectors thereof shall transmit to him every Quarter, an account of what moneys they have paid to the trusties, and they likewise quarterly to give him an account of the Names of the several persons that they have paid the Charity to; and this shall be laid before the Over seers twice in a year at least; and that three pence in the Pound be allowed in each Port out of all moneys received, to be for a Salary to the said Clark.  
Whereas Sailors often shift Ships, and are sometimes upon one Voyage, sometimes another, great care must be taken, that by this means they do not receive the Charity in more Ports than one: The like care that they be not put to too great trouble of proving their being wounded on bored such a Ship before they can be admitted; it may be a great hardship, to a Man that's maimed, Poor and Friendless: The same care must be taken in reference to those that shall be slain; that the trusties have not Women and Children imposed upon them.  
If a Sailor have lost a Limb, or is otherways Maimed, (so as to be rendered uncapable of Service) than the trusties to pay him, or them, according to the Fund they have; but yet not to exceed Twelve Pounds per Annum, that being a competent Maintenance for a poor Man.  
And those that are Maimed in the Public Service shall reap the advantage of this, he, or they, being to be reckoned to that Port out of which he was taken, when he entered into Their Majesty's Service, a Register being kept in each Port for that purpose; this will soon take off the Sailor's Aversion to the Public Service, and greatly promote Their Majesty's Interest, these Men enjoying Two Charities, for the Government will never withdraw their usual Bounty they have all along given to Sailors, and it will be an infallible means of keeping them from taking Foreign Service; he that is first Wounded to take place before all others; this Method to be observed in all Ports.  
And in little time there might be very good Hospitals built in all the considerable Ports of the Kingdom, to the great Relief of the Poor, and to the Interest and Honour of the Nation.  
The Sailors on Board all outward-bound Ships, and Coasters, shall be adjudged to that Port where they took their last Clearing, and paid their Charity-Mony: All inward bound Ships shall be charged to those Ports to which they are bound; and if by misfortune some of them fall into the Enemy's Hands, and their Men Maimed, yet notwithstanding those Men shall have a Right to the Charity, and receive it in that Port to which that Vessel was bound.   

I have now done with my Propositions, and shall only bring an Example, or Two, that it may appear how easy the thing will be; we may suppose, that all Vessels from Newcastle to London, that are above One Hundred Tun, will have one with another Eight Sailors; so here is Twelve Pence to be paid by each Person, which is but One Penny Half Penny a Man each Voyage; and it's possible, they may make Eight in a Year, which is but Twelve Pence a Man for the whole Year.  
Likewise all outward and inward bound Ships, that are upwards of One Hundred Tun, one with another, will have Twelve Sailors on board, and Four Shillings to be paid by them, which is Four Pence a Man each Voyage, which they would cheerfully and readily pay.  
And all Owners of Shipping would willingly pay what is charged upon the Bottom; for by this Act their Men will be made Resolute in defence of their Vessels, and it will be a very great Inducement and Encouragement to them, to set them out to Sea better Armed and Man'd then now they do.  
This would make a great Revenue, and which would be a vast help to all the Ports in the Kingdom, and the whole Nation would soon feel the happy effects of it.  
But that which would be the Crowning of the Work, is, That God would then give a Blessing to our Public Undertake, and send us a durable and lasting Peace.    

A Supplement To the Foregoing PROPOSITIONS.  
IT may be expected I should make an Estimate what Fund may Annually arise towards Building of Hospitals: It is a hard Task to perform, and without some helps from the Government, do conceive, that neither I, or any one else, can make a true Estimate; but according to my Apprehension, it cannot amount to less than Thirty Thousand Pounds a Year.  
And great things may be done by reason of this Fund, which will continue as well in Peace as War, and great Improvements may be made beyond what I have done, which in some measure you may discern, but I want time to Explain.  
As that there may and aught Provision to be made for Commanders of the King's Ships, or Masters of Vessels, (that are fallen to decay, that have behaved themselves Honourably, and deserved well of the State,) suitable to their Merits; and such Persons to be Governors of the several Hospitals.  
And others that have behaved themselves well, and in defence of their Ships, and done something that's Great, and deserves Praise and Imitation, and wants not this Charity, these to be Presented with a Gold Chain and Medal, with some Motto suitable to the Action; and this shall be put on in the presence of the Overseers; and after this he shall ever have the power to Act as a Trustee in all the Ports of the Kingdom, and for One Year shall have the Honour to be admitted to act as an Over seer, and have an equal Vote.  
And likewise it will be necessary to put out the Children of such Commanders or Masters of Ships that are either slain or Maimed; but this Power must be lodged in the Overseers, otherways there will be great Corruption and abuses in this Affair.  
And when it's fixed and settled by Act of Parliament, then will it by consequence greatly improve the Trade of the Nation and the Revenue of the Crown; and increase the number of Shipping and Sailors.  
Then will not the Gentry and middle sort of People be so greatly averse to the bringing up their Children Sailors, as now they are; but it's through a wrong notion they have of things, that makes them have such mean thoughts of Sea-Imployments; neither are they so terrible and frightful as some apprehend.  
We see the generality of People that give their Children Competent Fortunes, put them out to Shop-keeping, Trades or Handicrafts; by which means they are made so numerous, that Trade cannot support all; and Men thereby fall to decay; and Seeing Ruin hanging over their Heads, run into excess, and so hasten their downfall; and it may be in a few years return to their Friends to be kept, and bring a Wife and two or three Children to boot (there are multitudes of Instances of the Truth of this) which must certainly be a great affliction to the Parent, and a continual Eyesore and Vexation to him: and the Poor ruin'd Man receives the Scorn and Frowns of his Friends, which he's forced to digest pierce although it his very Reins; so he lingers out a miserable ignominous Life.  
And he may be said to Die Daily; for there are many Afflictions more Bitter and Sharp than Death itself.  
Therefore if Gentlemen would but bring up their younger Sons to learn Navigation, and afterwards put them for two or three years to a Captain of one of the King's Men of War, or to some Eminent Master of a Ship, that he may understand the Duty of a Sailor; then would his Coat sit never the worse upon his Back, but the better, when he's grown Man; and then will he be qualified for his Prince's service, or at least, need not fear having a good Ship, and of raising his Fortune.  
But if he should happen to fall either in the Public Service, or in Defence of our Ships of Trade, he certainly dies Brave, and brings not a blemish upon his Family, but is an Ornament to the same; and if he should not have got an Estate, or have lost one, there will be decent Provision made for his Wife and Children, and it can be no dishonour for any to receive it, it being adjudged by the Law to be a just Merit: Therefore, had I much rather my Child should die in the Bed of Honour, or in a Storm, than live and linger out a miserable Ignominious Life.   

PROPOSITIONS Humbly Offered for An Act of Parliament To be Made, For Laying a Duty of Tonnage UPON SHIPPING.  

WHen the Kingdom is engaged in War, it's not only requisite but equitable that all Persons, according to their several Degrees and Qualities should contribute to the Immergencies of the State; all due Regard being first had to Husbandry and Trade; and wherein things do not obstruct or Impeed either, it's but reasonable.  
And, indeed there are many whose Estates and Effects lie in Shipping, who have no ways yet contributed any thing to the Public, during the whole Course of this War; and who are under good circumstances, and capable of paying Taxes proportionable to the Rest of the King's Subjects, and no Injury thereby done.  
They may, its true, plead they are at great Charge to the Light-houses, and by Convoy money, which is no hardship upon them, it being brought in upon the Merchant as Averidg.  
Unless it fall upon Colliers, and it's well known they get a great deal of Money, notwithstanding all the Charge they are at, and the great Wages they give.  
And it may further be objected by them, That they are liable to great Dangers, and many of them taken by the Enemy.  
All which is no more than what the Merchants are exposed to; whose Effects are generally of much greater Consequence than their Shipping, yet are no ways exempted from paying greater Duties both inward and outward; notwithstanding any great Losses they have had, or may hereafter meet withal.  
Therefore, it seems altogether unreasonable, that these Persons should be exempted from being Taxed, when there may thereby be so much Money Raised as will be of great Importance to the Government.  
But that things may be done with all due Moderation, that no good Subject shall have any just Cause of Complaint, and not one Taxed more than another; it would be requisite, I humbly conceive, to have an Act of Parliament made to lay it as a Tonnage, with due regard being had to the Burden and Voyage of each Ship, and to make a Distinction between Coasters and Vessels outward bound, according to these ensuing Propositions.   

Proposition, I.  
That all Coasters whatever (except Colliers) pay six pence per Tun to the Collector of each Port where he takes his lading, according as the Ship shall measure; but if he shall not have his full lading, than a Deduction to be made according to what he wants; or if he shall afterwards have the Misfortune to fall into the Hands of the Enemies, than he shall have the liberty to draw back what Tonnage he paid that Voyage, and be paid upon demand, or be allowed it by Debenter, and have twelve months' time so to do, after the loss of the said Ship: But all Colliers shall pay this Tonnage in that Port they break Bulk and Unload: unless it be such of them as are outward bound. As to Holland, Ireland, etc. they shall pay it as the Coasters do, in that Port in which they take their Loading; but be liable to pay no greater Tonnage than they do.   

Proposit. II.  
That all outward bound Ships, except Colliers, bound either for Holland, Flanders, Portugal, Denmark, Ireland, etc. pay twelve Pence per Tun; according as each Ship shall measure; and in case any of them shall happen to be taken by the Enemy, before they have performed their intended Voyage, than they shall draw back this Tonnage, and be paid by the Collector upon demand, or be allowed it by Debenter.  
And all inward bound Ships from the above said Countries, either English or Foreign, shall pay two Shillings per Tun; and in case they shall not have their full Lading, deduction shall be made for the same.   

Proposit. III.  
That all outward bound Ships that shall be bound either to the East or West Indies, Streights, East Country, Coast of Africa, etc. shall pay two Shillings per Tun; but in case they shall fall into the Enemy's Hands, and not perform their Voyage, than they shall draw back the said Tonnage, and be paid upon demand or by Debenter. And all inward bound Ships, from the foresaid Countries, shall pay four Shilling per Tun, and not be cleared till the said moneys Paid.   

Proposit. IV.  
That all Western Barges, and all other Barges whatever; all Fish-Smacks, Hoys, Lighters (except such who constantly carry Dung or Soil) shall pay twenty Shillings per quarter, and pay the Money every quarter to the Collector of each Respective Port, within six Weeks after it becomes due; and upon default thereof to pay double: And that they come and make Entry of them, with the Names of the Owners at the Customhouse of that Port or Harbour they use (but this shall be done without Fee) with in six Weeks after the Act takes place.   

This will Create them no great Trouble, and will be an Ease to the Government; neither can it be any Hardship to them to pay this Money; the least of them having been at far greater Charge the Preceding Years, than they will be the Ensuing; and then their Trade and Business was greatly obstructed, but now they will be no way molested.  
That the Collector of each Port shall keep this Tunnage-Accompt a part (as likewise the Charity-Mony) and it shall be wholly a ppropriated to the use of the Navy: This Money being thus received, by the Collectors, will prevent the great and usual Charge that attends the Gathering in of Taxes, and will be the saving of the Government many Thousands of Pounds.  
According to my weak Capacity, This seems, to me, to be a very facile and easy way of raising very great Sums of Money, and be no manner of Oppression of any Man; and shall bring an Instance or two which, in some measure will prove it.  
A Vessel from Barbadoss (whose Tonnage is great) of two hundred Tun; will bring one hundred Tun of Goods, or Upwards, the Freight of which will amount to about two thousand Pounds. And considering all their Ware and Tear, and the great Wages they give, it's evident they may very well pay the Government forty Pounds when the Merchant at the same time hath run the same Risque, and pays far greater Sums, and probably gets not so much by the Voyage as the Owners.  
And for the Newcastle and other Coasting Trade, it can be no hardship for a Ship of two hundred Tun to pay five Pound, two Shillings (including the Charity Money) in a Voyage; for in little time the Sailor's Wages will sink much lower than now they are, and they will be nothing at the Charge they now are at; neither will Coals, or other Goods, be any way advanced by it, but reduced to a lower Rate, so the Charity Act be but past, and the Government be not wanting in granting them constant due and necessary Convoys; and if that be but Effectually done, there are no Owners of Shipping will be concerned at all for this Charge put upon them, but will willingly contribute to the Necessities of the Government, that the Trade of the Nation may be protected and preserved.   
FINIS.