Manuscript Group 17, Robert Hunter Morris (ca. 1700-1764), Chief Justice of New Jersey and Governor of Pennsylvania Papers, 1726-1770

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Manuscript Group 17, Robert Hunter Morris (ca.1700-1764), Chief Justice of New Jersey and Governor of Pennsylvania

Papers, 1726-1770, 2 linear feet

Call Number: 17 + Document number

Summary

Summary:

Correspondence; essays; memorials; petitions; commissions; manuscript maps; legal documents retained by Morris as Chief Justice of the Province of New Jersey, 1738-1764; Morris’s messages as Governor of Pennsylvania, 1754-1756; list of soldiers in New Jersey, 1752.Papers concern such topics as: New Jersey land riots; New York-New Jersey boundary disputes; defense against the Indians in upstate New York; military and Indian affairs during the French and Indian War.  Included are letters of James Alexander; William Alexander, Lord Stirling; Cadwallader Colden; Andrew Johnston; Ferdinand John Paris; John Pownall; and William Shirley.

Gift of Charles S. Boggs, ca. 1845.

Document List:

Doc No. Description Dates
Volume I
1 Copy of Mr.
Morris’s commission as chief justice of New Jersey		 1738, Mar.17
2 Uncertain Propositions
or Suggestions towards obtaining a revenue in the colonies from grants of Crown lands
(apparently prepared by Mr. Morris while in England)
3 Uncertain A fragment
entitled “Some consequences of the Crown’s not having revenues in America.”
4 Uncertain A fragment
endorsed “conclusion of a State of New York on Governor Clinton’s arrival
there.”
5 Copy of L.M.’s
(Lewis Morris – son of the Governor) “Defense of Governor Clinton against the
reflections of the Assembly” of New York.		 1748?
6 Letter from Governor
Clinton at Fort George (New York) to Mr. Morris. Defeat of Lewis Morris’s election
through the exertions of Chief Justice DeLancey; the Chief Justices hastily to all the
Governor’s measures and those thought to be in his interest; Solicits Mr.
Morris’s influence with Lord Lincoln to have the Chief Justice removed.		 1750, Aug.9
7 Letter from the same
urging the continuation of his services in “securing the Union Flag; keeping Sir
Peter (Warren) out of all governments and to crush the Chief Justice”; hopes it is
not contemplated to appoint him to the government of Greenwich ???; Uneasiness occasioned
by the conduct of a nephew should no redress be obtained to get for him leave of absence
for twelve months.		 1750, Sep.5
8 Letter from the same.
Same subjects adverted to in part; would like to be situated like Lord Albemarle in
Virginia with a Lieut. Gov.; A rumor at Boston that Gen. Shirley was trying for the
government of New York and the Jerseys; encloses a letter for Mr. Catherwood, his agent
(formerly his secretary), with the addresses of the assembly; has escaped being called
“rogue and rascal”; the address drawn up by “four vinegar barrels
Horsemanden, blankston, Jones, Cruger”		 1750, Sep.8
9 From the same to Mr.
Catherwood. A copy of the Morrisania Patent sent over to obtain a confirmation under the
great deal with a clause authorizing the sending of a member to the Assembly.		 1750, Sep.22
10 Letter from
Cadwalladen Colden to Mr. Morris. Governor Shirley thought to have supplanted Clinton with
the Ministry; cautions him against Colonel Roberts; Mr. Alexander at Perth Amboy; Governor
Belcher had been seized with palsy while at Commencement of the College at Newark; the
action of the Assembly.		 1750, Oct.1
11 Copy of Letter from
Cadwalladen Colden to Mr. Catherwood. Complains against Governor Clinton relative to the
customs of the colony noticed and the governor ???; young Mr. Alexander (afterward Lord
Sterling) referred to as causing jealousies.		 1750, Nov.22
12 Statement of Matters
in dispute between the Council and Assembly of New York as to their respective
prerogatives.
13 Governor Clinton to
the Lords of Trade. Transmute laws passed at the previous assembly and comments thereon.		 1750/1, Jan.2
14 The same to Mr.
Morris. Investments ordered in the “Old South Sea ???”; grief of Mr. Clinton on
the loss of Mrs. Roddam (wife of Capt. Roddam of the Navy); is waiting for his leave of
absence; does not wish Chief Justice DeLancy to be left in authority in his absence;
desires Mr. Morris to think of his suggestion to obtain the office of Lieut. Governor
until something better should offer. Should be followed by Number 37.		 1751, Jan. 15
15 John Ferdinand Paris,
agent of the colony to Mr. Morris. Relative to the power of the Governor to appoint a
Lieutenant Governor.		 1751, Feb. 28
16 Governor Clinton to
Mr. Morris. Commenting on the foregoing May 19-23 letter; intends to suspend DeLancy
before he leaves in order that the government may devolve upon another Lieut. Gov. in the
President of the Council; alludes to the manner in which DeLancy had influenced the
elections; is expecting the receipt of his leave of absence; the neighboring colonies
“accepting Boston” had left New York “in the Lurch” at the muting (on
Indian affairs) at Albany.		 16 1751
17 John Ayscough (Sec.?
to Gen. Clusten) to Mr. Morris. The Governor in a dilemma; his leave of absence not
arrived; his presence toward the end of the month required at a meeting of commissioners
at Albany to conduct upon Indian affair; but Capt. Roddam with whom he wished to sail had
received peremptory orders from the admiral; had determined to go to Albany and to request
Capt. Roddam to remain until his return; another reason for his delay the arrival of Gen.
Wm. Bull from South Carolina with six ??? Indians on the way to Albany; exertions to be
made to save Capt. Roddam from censure.		 1751, June 16
18 A duplicate of the
foregoing with a postscript; rumors received of the appointment of his Peter Warren as
Governor of New York.		 1751, June 16
19 Draft of a letter from
Mr. Morris to Lord Lincoln. Desiring his influence to prevent the appointment of another
governor for New York; Customary fro governors to resist and reside in England and still
retain their offices; example: the Governor of Virginia, Hunter of New Jersey and Shirley
of Massachusetts.		 August
20 List of the committee
of Privy Council on the affairs of New York.		 Aug. 6
21-22 Captain Henry Clinton
to Mr. Morris. Relating to the means being taken to prejudices his father’s
interests; Mr. Morris’s letter to Lord Lincoln had been sent.
23 Governor Clinton to
Mr. Morris. Sir Peter Warren; the foundation of the rumor of his appointment; he had
appointed Mr. Chambers 2nd Judge in place of Mr. Phillip deceased; the disapprobation of
De Lancey; had recommended him as a Councilor in place of Stephen Bayard; had indicted
also upon the confirmation of Horsmander’s and pension; wants Brant Schuyler to
succeed him; repented not having gone home with Capt. Roddam; Duke of ??? prejudiced
against him; Morris having succeeded in getting his nephew Ashfield and Oden appointed
Councilors in New Jersey, it had refuted the stories of one Wraxall that he was without
influence in England; Murray “tho’ not capable of biting shows his teeth’;
his courses in relation to an Indian boy; his insolence; a desire expressed to bring him
‘a peg lower’; Mr. Bradley Attor. Gen., dead, Mr. Smith appointed in his place;
disappointment of Mr. DeLancey; ??? of Flatbush with his family; living as merry as
possible.		 Aug.18-23
24 Draft of letter from
Mr. Morris to Lord Lincoln. The Governor had not arrived in the Greyhound; as his Lordship
had proposed him for Lieut. Gov. of New York; wishes the commission acted on and he would
immediately have for New York.		 Sep.???
25 Governor Clinton to
Mr. Morris. Referred to changes in the British Ministry; letter to him from the Duke of
Bedford exhibits “spite” towards him; Colonel Roberts had written that he was to
have an appointment from Lord Halifax; Roberts likely to favor of DeLancey with the Duke
of Bedford; Regrets at not having sailed with Capt. Roddam.		 Sept.14-17
26 Half of a new York
Evening Post of this date enclosed in the foregoing.		 Sep.23
27 Governor Clinton to
Mr. Morris. Acknowledging receipt of letter.		 Sep.24
28 The same to the same.
Intelligence had been received of the appointment of Mr. Morris as Line Governor.		 Sep.26
29 Pointed address of
Council to Governor Clinton on Indian affairs.  Printed queries to the Freeholder of
Westchester County.		 Nov.23
30 New York Gazette and
Post Boy for the day; Contains the address of the Mayor of Elisabethtown to Governor
Belcher on his coming to reside there; and the address of the new York Assembly, to
Governor Clinton on Indian affairs.		 Nov.25
31 Governor Clinton to
Mr. Morris. Had dissolved the assembly high time they were “sent about their
business”; refers to some of their acts; Chief Justice DeLancey and others plotting
against Mr. Morris to prevent his being appointed Lieut. Gov.; Wraxall, the “little
dirty dog” going home; his son had purchased a commission as Lieut. Of the Guards for
L1250; L900 the highest ever pain.		 Nov.26
32 Copy of letter from
Cadwalladen Colden to Gov. Clinton. The dissolution of the Assembly would prevent the
payment of any money to Mr. Charles, the agent, and also prevent any instructions being
sent to him.		 Nov. 28
32 Governor Clinton to
Mr. Morris. Transmitting this letter and commenting upon the agent; sorry to find that
Lord Granard opposed Mr. Morris’s appointment; thinks it the underhand work of Sir
Peter Warren through Admiral Rowley; Rowley’s obligations to him (Gov. C.); should
Mr. Morris not succeed hopes he will advocate the appointment of Dr. Colden; Does not wish
to have to suspend DeLancey; Refers to some action of the Assembly in reference to his
leaving the colony.		 Dec.10
33 Governor Clinton to
Mr. Morris. Rumors put in circulation by Oliver DeLancey to affect the elections; of the
death of the Duke of New Castle and end of the Pelham interests.		 Nov.28
34 John Pownall to Mr.
Morris. Referring to a paper required by Mr. Morris.		 Dec.21
35 John Ayscough to Mr.
Morris. Governor Clinton had been ill state unable to write; Mr. Catherwood to consent
with Mr. Morris in relation to “Wraxall’s affair”; Matters of difference
with Lord Holdemesse in relation to an appointment of a dorm; clerk for Albany; ”
C.J. Billy Walton Oliver and H. Crugar had not to propose representatives; Walton would
have thrown a bottle at the Chief Justice had he not been prevented; H. Cruger told him
that he took leave both of him and politics		 Dec.23
36 Governor Clinton to
Mr. Morris. Mr. Chambers to run against Oliver DeLancey; Prospects of the election in
different counties.		 1752, Jan.15
37 Duplicate of No.14
with a postscript of Jan. 25 entered erroneously.		 Jan.15
38 Copy of Instructions
to appoint John Chambers to be of the Council of New York in the room of Stephen Bayard.
39 Governor Clinton to
Mr. Morris. Exertions to be used to have Mr. Smith appointed Atty. And Advocate General;
great encouragement would be the faction should he be debarred the privilege of nominating
officers; an application to be made to Mr. Pelham for the payment of Col. Johnson’s
salary not of the quit rents; determined to suspend C.J. before he left for England but
was in doubt how to do it; Captain Cosby had order to carry him home; Desires an account
of Catherwood investments on his account; had L8000 thus invested; wishes a certificate
sent to him; election ever; strong opposition everywhere.		 Feb.19
40 Duplicate of the
foregoing with a postscript. Desires that letter may be directed to him or in his absence
to the president of the Council ; Refers again to his investments; had been advised by a
friend not to meet the Assembly; the spreading of the small pox a sufficient excuse; had
prolonged them until the 20 April.		 Feb.19
41 The same to the same.
Letter acknowledged; the faction had carried their point in most places; as he expects the
Assembly will be impudent he will “soon send them about their business”; had
only received two letters from the new Secretary of State and both of them removed friends
to make room for enemies; Smith not allowed to retain the office of Atty. Gen.; pleased at
the idea of having his power to appoint Chief Justice DeLancey (as he had done) called in
question; Captain Cosby would not be ready to leave before June; refers again to the
prorogation of the Assembly; Displeased at Catherwood’s letters.		 Mar.11-14
42 Without date Draft of
letter from Mr. Morris to Gov. Clinton. Referring to his stock investments made by
Catherwood.
43 Without date
Memorandum of Governor Clinton’s request to the government to order the President of
the Council to assume the Chief Authority in the province when the governor shall leave.
44 Governor Clinton to
Mr. Morris. He is disappointed at not receiving letters’ fears he will not get away
before June; “the faction” very assiduous in spreading false reports; the small
pox spreading was about leaving the city.		 April 12
45 Governor Clinton to
Mr. Morris. Had received a letter from Lord Holdemesse commanding him to remain in his
government. Expects to be superseded; his embarrassments.		 July 26
46 Duplicate of the
foregoing with Postscript. Had been directed to August 9 correspond only with the Lords of
Trade; Without instructions upon various matters which he had desired; desires Mr. M. to
ascertain to where his ill-treatment may be attributed; had directed Captain Clinton to
act in his behalf; thinks Lords Holdemesse and Halifax had concocted the order preventing
his return in order to advance the views of some one they wished to place in the
government; his remaining in the province rather detrimental than otherwise in consequence
of the dissensions between him and the Assembly and their opposition to his views and to
his friends; Urges renewed exertions to get him away; still suggests the suppression of
DeLancey (See endorsements by Mr. Morris).		 July 26-28
47 John Avscough to Mr.
Morris. Mr. Clinton sick; approves of Mr. Morris’s suggestion to have a public
hearing by Council; the displeasure of the Board gives him no uneasiness, as he is not
conscious of deserving it; is indifferent as to his successor so that he can get away;;
thinks it will be a long while before Lord Halifax will find one to take the office if no
one but a “Nobleman of Fortune, integrity, and understanding” is to be selected;
the assembly had met and parted; promising to provide for Indian Affairs at the next
session; in consequence the governor had appointed Commissioners.		 Nov.24
48 The New York Mercury
for that day		 Nov.29
49 Thomas Hill to Mr.
Morris. Requesting his attendance at a meeting of the Board of Trade the following
morning; the request endorsed on it by Mr. Morris. Had the claim of his brother to a seat
in the council of New York in favor of Mr. Smith recommended by Gov. Clinton.		 1753, Jan.16
50 Governor Clinton to
Mr. Clinton. Lends him “the character of a disbanded courtier” as “just
picture” of Chief Justice DeLancey; the winter very severe, stages cross the river on
the ice; his desiring Mr. Chambers to run for the Assembly had so alarmed that gentleman
as to make him sick; no one willing to run in opposition to Mr. DeLancey; “If Oliver
would but set up his four coach horse they would carry it”; the
“scandalous” interference of the chief Justice in the elections; the
“solicitation” to have Chambers made a councilor to be slackened for if in that
body he would be afraid of the Chief Justice; either Oliver, DeLancey, or James Livingston
to be run and Chambers says he would rather give L500 than oppose either.		 Jan.17
51 Draft of case
submitted by Mr. Morris to the Atty. And Sol. Generals; as to Gov. Clinton’s power to
suspend a Lieut. Governor. Date uncertain but should have preceded 15.		 Without date.
52 Draft of letter from
Mr. Catherwood to Lord Lincoln recommending Mr. Morris as Lieut. Governor of New York;
letter partly drafted by Mr. Morris himself. Date uncertain but should have preceded 24.		 Uncertain
53 Governor Clinton to
Mr. Morris referring to the conflicting applications of Mr. Lewis Morris and Mr. Smith for
a seat in the council; had been ordered by the Board of Trade not to suspend DeLancey;
intelligence received that Mr. Morris had been appointed Collector at Philadelphia.		 April 16
54 Ferd. John Paris to
Mr. Morris. Informing him of the death of Sir Danvers Osborne in New York shortly after
his arrival.		 Prob. Nov.
55 Original agreement
with Robert Hunter Morris appointed on 4 May their Governor of Pennsylvania by Thomas and
Richard Penn, that he shall receive L1500 per annum.		 May 17
56 “A State of the
Province of Pennsylvania.” A representation to Parliament of the grievances of the
people from the preponderating influence of the Quakers.		 Without Date
57 Messages from the
Assembly of Penn. To Governor Morris calling for a copy of a letter from General Braddock
which had induced the Governor to summon the Assembly.		 1755, June 16
58 Message of Governor
Morris to the Assembly. Relating to supplies for the men engaged in opening and clearing
the road towards the Ohio.		 June 17
59 Message from the
Assembly to the Governor. Relating to Bills for granting money for the King’s use.		 June 21
60 Message from the
Governor to the Assembly. In answer to 57; Declines acceding to this request unless a
promise is first given that it shall not be printed.		 June 21
61 Message from the
Assembly to the Governor. Relating to the Balance of the “Exchange Money.”		 June 25
62 Message of the
Governor to the Assembly. Relating to the amount of money in hand to exchange for old and
defaced bills of credit (answered by 61).		 June 25
63 The Governor to the
Assembly. Calling for the adoption of measures to prevent exportations of produce that may
get to the French.		 June 26
64 The assembly to the
Governor. Rejoinder to message of (60) June 21; assert their right to determine what
papers are proper to be printed.		 June 27
65 The Governor to the
Assembly. Adhering to certain amendments to a money bill.		 June 27
66 The Governor to the
Assembly. Draft and fair copy.		 Without date
67 On their being called
together by him, in consequence of the encroachments of French and Indians on the
frontiers; urged to promptness in making provisions for the defense of the province.		 Nov.4
68 The Governor to the
Assembly. Further intelligence from the Indians; the settlements at the great line
destroyed.		 Nov.5
69 The Assembly to the
Governor. Inquiring as to the information he may have relative to the disposition of
different tribes of Indians.		 Nov.5
70 The Governor to the
Assembly. Ensuring that body for delay in furthering his views. Intended to start for the
back counters taking a ??? of the Council forth him.		 Nov.8
71 The Governor to the
Assembly. Urging an attention to the Indian affairs of the province.		 Nov.10
72 Draft of a
Proclamation for a Fast.		 1756, May 4
73 Copy of letter from
James DeLancey to the council of New York; the defense fo Fort Wm. Henry; the necessity of
reinforcements.		 1757, Aug.9
74 Copy of an engraved
Plate buried by the French on the Ohio River.
75 M.L Map of parts of
Pennsylvania and New Jersey.
76 M.L. copy of part of
Evan’s Map enlarged
77-79 M.L. Maps of parts of
the Susquehannah River.
80 Council of Proprietors
of East Jersey to Governor Lewis Morris. Praying that he would certify what he remembers
concerning the running of the Line between New Jersey and New York in Governor
Lowrie’s time. Original.
81 Draft of Certificate
in accordance with the foregoing memorial to be signed by Governor Morris.
82 Draft of another form
of Certificate (In hand writing of James Alexander).
83 Draft of Certificate
from Lewis Morris and other landowners adjacent to the Boundary line, to Robert H. Morris
in London to use his exertions in their behalf to obtain a settlement of the boundary
line. Original.		 1750, April 24
84 Printed Memorial
responsive to the representation made to the government in England by those concerned in
the disturbances in the Provinces.		 1751?
85 James Alexander to
Robert Hunter Morris, or, in case of his absence, to Ferdinand John Paris, London about
the matter in controversy between New York and New Jersey. Original.		 1753, Dec.21
86 Printed Appendix to
the votes of Assembly of Pennsylvania. Draft Dec.3 of the prepared answer to the
Governor’s message of the 22 November, relating to the bill for granting L60,000 to
the King’s use.		 1755, Nov.3
87 Proceedings of the
Assembly of Pennsylvania. Fragment		 1755, Nov. 8-11
88 Proclamation of the
Honorable Robert Hunter Morris, Lieut. Gov. of Pennslyvania relative to organization of
the Militia.		 1756, Feb.13
89 Captain Samuel Hobson,
Lieut. George Cattman, David Allen, Thomas Archbold, to the Honorable Robert Hunter
Morris. Recruiting officers’ memorial in behalf of enlisted soldiers detained by the
Magistrates under a claim of the people who formerly purchased them for servants.
Original.
90 Report of Benjamin
Chew, Alexander Stedman, Williams West and Edward Shipper Jr. to the Honorable, the
Governor and Council, concerning the inhabitants of Cumberland County; that they petition
for protection from the savages lest they be driven to forsake their homes altogether as
they have already been obliged to do in part. Original.		 1756, April 2
91 Andrew ???, to the
Honorable Robert Hunter Morris. Relative to the calling of a meeting of the Proprietors.
Original.		 1757, May 19
92 The Plea and Answer of
the right Honorable William Earl of Sterling and others, proprietors of East New Jersey to
John Hunts bill in Chaneery.		 1770
Volume
II
1 Uncertain Draft of
Thoughts of which the assembly of New York should be informed, relating to the line
between New York and New Jersey, in the handwriting of James Alexander
2 Uncertain Objections
which, it is supposed, will be made to the obtaining of the Royal Assent to the Act for
running the Line of York and Jersey. With the answers that have occurred there to.
3 Uncertain Reasons for
Establishing the Line run and marked in 1719.
4 Uncertain Draughs of a
Fort.
5 Uncertain Questions
relating to the York Line.
6 Uncertain Draughs of
Letter by James Alexander for Governor Clinton intended to explain the reason of his past
conduct and why he does not interest himself concerning an Act of the Legislature of New
Jersey about going home for the Royal Assent, relating to the Line between New York and
New Jersey.
7 Uncertain J.
Alexander’s Memorandum for Chief Justice Morris of papers to be examined. Account of
cash paid.
8 Uncertain Letter from
Mr. Morris to Governor Clinton explanatory fo an Act passed by the Legislature of New
Jersey. Relating to the Boundary Line.
9 Uncertain Prepared
Amendments by James Alexander to the notice to Governor Clinton about the Line Bill.
10 Uncertain Abstract of
Proposals to the Board of Trade concerning New Jersey in relation to the Great Riots and
Disorders that have so long prevailed there. 1. That a Bill of Indictment be found by the
Grand Jury of Middlesex against certain Members of Assembly. 2. That a Governor be sent
over with special powers. 3. That a Man of ??? be stationed at new Jersey. 4. That the
Governor be ordered to raise one independent company. 5. That two of the four companies as
new York be ordered to New Jersey. 6. That the Board of Ordnance send either a train of
Artillery to. 7. Assistance be ordered from New York, Connecticut and Pennsylvania.
11 Uncertain Reasons
against writing the Government of New York and New Jersey. 1. Government of New York needs
all its troops. 2. Governor would be likely to attend more to the business of New York
than to that of New York than to that of New Jersey, because of the higher importance of
the former. 3. The influence of large land owners in New York upon the Governors of both
likely to be such as either to prevent the set ??? of the Line or to establish one
prejudicial to the interests of New Jersey. 4. Delay of justice in New Jersey on account
of constant residence of the Governor in New York.
12 Abstract of Proposals
of Board of Trade concerning New Jersey in relation to Disorders and Confusion ever since
1745 which threaten to spread and menace his Majesty’s Authority. 1. That a Military
force be sent from England. 2. That the four companies at New York be sent to New Jersey.
3. that the Governments of New Jersey and New York be united under one Governor – (The
same as No. 10, more at length).
13-14 Documents of Similar
Import		 1758
15 Draughs of a Letter to
John ???, Secretary of the Board of Trade upon the affairs of New York. An account of
disputes between the Governors and Assemblies about the revenue from Hunter and
Clinton’s administrations. Never any standing revenues set apart for the support of
the Governor in New York, but were given from time to time by the Assemblies. Mr. Hunter
found things in great confusion (1710); no revenue; quit rents ill collected; Governors
had granted away most of the Crown lands for trifling rents. The colony was and is made up
of Dutch and Puritans, neither fond of Kingly government. Mr. Hunter labored for five
years to restore order. An American Assembly however never known to be satisfied with a
moderate share of power, attempted to render the officers entirely dependent upon them.
Mr. Montgomery arrived about 1728, “an easy good-natured man,” who yielded when
they acted independently. This was the state of things when Mr. Clinton arrived in New
York. The Assembly had many branches of power yielded by former Governors, no revenues for
government nor would the Assembly give any for longer than a year. In vain for him to
contest the matter. He continued to encroach upon the rights of the Crown and as length
produced a state of things under which Mr. Clinton refused to accept; and thus they
secured their end. Mr. Clinton forced by the Indian relations was obliged to yield some
points to the Assembly. Still Mr. Clinton has prevailed upon the Assembly to give the
public money in the manner in which it was given when he arrived. It has been usual to
give a thousand pounds to the New Governor on his arrival though cannot assert that he can
take a present from the first Assembly.
16 Indenture of Election
of John Baxter, as Bayliffe, for the Borough of West Chester. Original.		 1726, Sept.15
17 Papers on the Removal
of Lewis Morris and Isaac Molliet. An advertisement stating speculations and giving the
facts. As to Morris, because he dared to give his opinion in Court contrary to the
Governor’s private views.		 1733, Aug.23
18 Order of Council that
Governor Cosby transmit the reasons for removing Lewis Morris Esq. who petitions that he
be justly heard in his defense.		 1733, Jan.8
Certificate that the
order was delivered to Governor Cosby.		 1734, April 24
19 Petition of John
Morris to the surveyors of the highways for the County of Burlington, praying for the
alteration of the road running through his plantation.		 1734, Dec.30
20 Document from the
Surveyors of the Highway for the counties of Burlington and Monmouth. Complying with the
foregoing petition of John Morris.		 1734, Jan.21
21 Copy of Order to
Council for a Temporary line of Jurisdiction between Pennsylvania and Maryland.		 1738, May 25
22 A Letter from a
Gentleman (Tribunus Populi), in New York to his friend in Brunswick about the expense of
running the Jersey line. His opinion that the Province ought not to be at the charge of
running the line. ???		 1750, Sep.26
23 Some ??? on a Reply to
a letter from a Gentleman in New York to his friend in Brunswick. By the author of the
letter. Original grants. First steps taken to ascertain the bounds in 1684-1685 by Thomas
Don Jon, Governor of New York, and Mr. Lawric, Governor of New Jersey. Met and agreed that
the station point of it on the Delaware should be Japan Creek. Wells and Robinson,
Surveyors General respectively of New York and New Jersey, fixed the station points on
Hudson River. Legislature of New York, 1717, passed an Act for running that line, and
appropriated L 300 for the charges enacting that the line so run should be conclusive.
Royal Assent 19 May 1720. Legislature of New Jersey passed Act to same purpose, accepting
that Owners of Land pay charges. 1719, Commissioners and Surveyors appointed by both
Provinces. July 1719, they fixed station point on Delaware River, lat. 41, 40, and
executed tripartite indenture to perpetuate that settlement and two person appointed to
run the line to Hudson river latitude there not having been fixed. Views of Tribunus
Populi discussed and answered.		 1750, Dec.8
24 Memorandum of what has
happened at Muinisink since May last. To his Excellency Lewis Morris, Esq. The collector
of Minnisink for Orange County had ??? on several of the inhabitants who have Jersey
titles, for a New York tax. Proceedings at the Town Meeting.		 1741
Complement to above.
Derrick Quik’s deposition that the wife of Herman Van Garden exclaimed in a passion,
“What do you think to get our land?” and that the people would stand by one
another to the last drop of blood and that she herself would fight like a man. Original.
25 Robert H. Morris to
Governor Lewis Morris. Captain Warren New York arrives and reports that Captain
Knowles’ fleet had entered the harbor of (blank), and two of the ships had been
driven out, while the rest had continued firing till night. Results unknown. Captain
Warren has taken ???. Enclosed, two memorials from the Council of Proprietors of East New
Jersey; one concerning their rights to appoint Rangers; the other concerning the Line of
Division between New Jersey and New York. Hear settled account between his brother John
and Abraham Russell, Mr. Ashfield’s affairs intricate. Original		 1742, April 8
26 Memorial of the
two communities appointed by the Eastern and Western Division of the Council of
Proprietors to promote the setting of the Division Line between New York and New Jersey
and also between the Eastern and Western Division of the Province.		 1742, June
Praying the Governor Morris’ assistance that the lines
may be run and his excellency’s influence to put a stop to disorders. Official papers
to this purpose appended. Copies.		 25 & 28 June
27 The Petition of Abraham Van Aken and Jurian Weshphall and
others to the General Assembly of the Province of New Jersey. Measures to ascertain the
course of the Line between New York and New Jersey detailed.  Petitioners and
neighbors had their lands in and about Minniwik’s Island by title under this
Province, and have been in possession thus, some twenty, some forty years, but have been
taxed as belonging to Orange County, New York; and what taxes have been levied with hardly
paralleled cruelty and injustice. Instances of (1) Solomon Davis, a Justice of the Peace,
paid L40 for alleged acting in New York when really acting in New Jersey, (2) Abraham Van
Aken, named in his Majesty’s Commission of the Peace, for Morris County, was
imprisoned twenty four days; was arrested for L 19 and imprisoned eight days then bailed
and abliged to give a note for 30. Also Constables ??? Leven Owen and Jurian Westphall and
others were arrested for serving Van Aken, (3) Johannes H. Atelen, and the constable of
Morris County, had his horse shot under him, goods taken, and is himself imprisoned.
Petition for relief. Copy.
28 Abraham Van Aken’s Depostion to foregoing effect.
Original.		 1743, 5 June
29 Memorandum of Robert H. Morris concerning the Division Line
between New York and New Jersey.  Governor Clinton had secured for him an interview
with Chief Justice DeLancy, ??? John McEvers, Lewis Morris, Esq., Robert Ratsy, to
consider the subject of the Boundary Line. Mr McEvers insisted that the Station Points
granted by theGovernors of New york for lands northward of those points’ line never
run; landholders under Jersey to take patents from it.  To Mr. Morris’
objections to these positions, Mr. McEvers “made little answer.” He read a
letter from Gov. Fletcher which does not describe Delaware Division Line between E. and W.
Jersey. He produced a map which Mr. Morris judges to be very unjust and made to produce a
deception. Could not be enforce where the Delaware point was.  Then mentioned Acts of
Assembly pertinent; and produced an original indenture and map, hoping that the parish
indicated thereon would be allowed; but to no purpose. They agreed to meet again. Original		 1743, Oct.24
30 Extracts from Proceeding as a Council of Proprietors
containing Robert H. Morris’ report to the Council of the (blank) detailed in the
foregoing paper. Copy.		 1743, Mar.15
31 Certificate from John Smith Dep. Sec. and from Andrew
Johnston, Amboy Esq. and John Baruet of the date of several instruments in the Act for
running Line between New York and New Jersey. Original.		 1744, Oct.29
32 Ferd. John Paris to James Alexander, New York. Could not
London retain Attorney and Solicitor General by a general retainer, but has done so in
both the particular matters. Relative to the East New Jersey Proprietor’s affairs.
Original.		 1746, Jan.27
33 Petition to the King from Doleas Hageman in behalf of the
Committee appointed by many purchasers and possessors of land in the Counties of Middlesex
and Somerset, New Jersey. With State of Purchasers’ case/ A verdict in his case in
the Supreme Court of New Jersey in 1745. With Affidavits of jurors and others. Filed in
Council Office, 23 October 1750. Copy.		 1747(1748)
34 James Alexander to Robert Hunter Morris. Finds in Minutes of
New York Council form 1682 to 1688 only something that corroborates Gov. Morris’
testimony. Probably the settlement was between 9 and 12 April 1684. Philip Weeks, 1
September 1686, was to settle the Line beginning at Lat. 41, 40 upon the Delaware. ???
DeLancey’s ??? was not there thought of. Finds no mention of the Memorial through 6
months of Pres. Schuyler’s minutes. Original.		 1748, May 18
35 James Alexander to Robert Hunter Morris. Has procured two
sets of evidences under the Great seal of New York for L46. Mr. Smith purposes to advise
the Assembly to oppose the (“ours”) Act. About six years ago Mr. Hombeck
surveyed 900 acres on East Jersey right and agreed with eh people that they should buy,
and that until they should pay, should be charged rent. The people being unable to pay
consented that Evert Hombeck should make the purchase. Which he did. The people permitted
Law and Van Garten to plant on the land. Trouble between Hombeck and Law and Van Garten.
Hear written to Hombeck to apply for Morris’ assistance in petitioning the Governor
Council and Assembly. Thinks it would be a good ??? for the Governor to address the King
for his speedy assent to the Line Act. Now sends Lawrence’s depositions and Maps to
him with explanations. Intends to send John ??? beginning of November to Burlington to
swear to the (blank) of the act and to ??? the copies back with him to go by Bryant and
Waddell who sail 10 November. The Rioters should be attainted and convicted if they do not
appear. Elisha Parker goes to Amboy to advise with Council of Proprietors if he shall
issue writs against the persons mentioned in the late ??? deed of Newark.		 1748, Oct.8
Enclosed: A letter to Evert Hombeck enclosing draft of an
indictment against John Bayard and his accomplices.
36 New York Assembly’s Order upon the Petition against the
Jersey Line Act. That the petitioners be heard and that the hearing be on 28th ???.		 1748, Oct.20
37 James Alexander to Robert H. Morris. Sends John Leurs to New
York examine the evidence of the Line Act. If Hombeck has come, hopes he (Morris) will get
copies of his Power from the People and of the Petitions; if he as found any further
letters from his Father to President Schuyler or Mr. Clark, he will prove them and get
them annexed. Encloses copies of apposing Petition and an Order of House.		 1748, Oct.26
38 Copy of Petition to the Assembly of New York against the Act
for Running of New Jersey Line.		 1748, Oct.24
39 Ferd. John Paris to James Alexander. His views as to the
position London of New Jersey in the controversy with New York. Shall insist that the
North Partition Point settled in 1719 cannot “here” be enquired with, there
being no appeal made from what was there solemnly done by the indenture in 1719. When the
Council and Solicitors come to open the matter to the Lords of Trade the Act will not be
satisfied. Knows ???what good end this matter can come to but must trust to chance. In
spite of his own (Paris’) efforts Mr. Clark succeeded in getting a postponement of a
day of hearing.		 1749, July 19
40 State of the case of the Possessors of Land lying in the
Township of Newark and other parts of the Township of Essex in his Majesty’s Colony
of New Jersey, in America, in defense of the complaints of James Alexander and Robert
Hunter Morris, and of the general proprietors of the fair colony. Copy.		 1749-1750
41 Petition to His Majesty of the Possessors of Land in Newark
and other parts of Essex county. With thirteen Affidavits down to 11 December 1749.
Purpose corresponding with preceding state of the case. Copy.		 1750
42 Memorial of His Majesty’s Council and of the General
Council of Proprietors of New Jersey, to the Lords of Trade. The Rebellion exists in New
Jersey and requires suppression. Means suggested. Copy.		 1751, July 30
43 Petition of 404 Inhabitants and Freeholders in Newark and
parts adjacent in Essex County, to his Majesty. Acknowledging their unlawful proceedings
and praying for pardon and that their lands might be quietly enjoyed. Copy.		 1750
44 A list of soldiers in the East of Philadelphia and belonging
to the several Regiments as follows: 40, 44, 47, 48, 50, 51.		 1756, May 6
45 Presentation of the Lords of Trade to the Rights Honorable
the Lords of his Majesty’s Privy Council; relative to the Riots in New Jersey. Copy.
See memorandum on documents.		 1750
46 Draft of Paper apparently for adoption of the Privy Council
after consideration of New Jersey riots.		 1751, July 30
47 Ferd. John Paris to Robert Hunter Morris. Copy of petition
enclosed for examination and immediate return. Original.		 1752, Mar.10
48 The King’s Order in Council directing the attention of
the Board of Trade to all laws having in view the advancement of Trade and Commerce. Copy.		 1752, Mar.11
49 William Penn to Robert Hunter Morris regarding the Jersey Line. 1752, June16
50 List of Officers of New Jersey with their salaries and
Requester and how appointed. Sent to Mr. Pownall. In handwriting of Robert H. Morris.
Original draft		 1752, April 22
51 James Alexander to Robert Hunter Morris. Relating to the ???
of Connecticut upon New York. Enclosed copy of a letter from a gentleman of Norwalk,
Conn., stating that he not only would not sign the petition of 400 Heads of Families of
Connecticut prayer for Lands West of the Hudson, but helped to have ???.		 1752, Dec.15
52 Richard Gardner, Dep. Surveyor of ??? in relation to some
legal procedures on the New York Line1752. Dec.17 James Alexander’s Answer. Copy.		 1752, Nov.28
53 John Herring. Affidavit concerning the Robbery of Richard
Gardner by Thomas Dekey and his two sons 20 July 1953. Copy.		 1753, July 25
54 Ferd. John Paris to Robert Hunter Morris. Will advance the
money for bringing on the N.J Line Bill. Note of Mr. Morris answer on back. Original.		 1753, Jan.22
55 Ferd. John Paris to Robert Hunter Morris. Asks for Book of
New Jersey Evidence. Original.		 1753, May 15
56 John Pownall, Sec. to the Lords of Trade, to Robert Hunter
Morris. The Attendance of the latter desired as the Board of the Lords of Commissioners
for Trade and Plantation. Original.		 1753, June 30
57 Ferd. John Paris to Robert Hunter Morris. Encloses a note
from J. Sharpe that he should move to have the Board of Trades Report upon the Jersey Line
Bill confirmed. Also, copy of the Report of the Board of Trade and Draft of Petition to
the Council against it. Complains of being left without advice or means for prosecuting
the matter. Account of same. His official Action. Very interesting letter. Original.		 1753, Aug.18
58 J. Sharpe to F.J. Paris. Notices referred to in the
foregoing. Copy.		 1753
59 F.J. Paris to Mrs. Euphemia Morris at Spa, Germany. Encloses
a packet for her brother, R.H. Morris. The ??? 57. Original.		 1753, Aug.20
60 R.H. Morris to F.J. Paris. In answer to his of 18 August;
???. Explanatory and confirmatory. Original draft.		 1753, Set.11
61 F.J. Paris to R.H. Morris. Encloses account ??? with
explanations. Original.		 1753, Sep.24
62 F.J. Paris to R.H. Morris. Had moved the Committee for a
hearing and the Lord President had ordered that the case of the N.J. Line Act should come
on first committee after Easter. Original.		 1754, Mar.7
63 F.J. Paris to R.H. Morris. Shall he fee or instruct Mr.
Heuley for the next hearing on the New Jersey Line. Original.		 1754, April 1
64 R.H. Morris to F.J. Paris. Fee the Attorney General and Mr.
???, and if the former decline, then Mr. York. Original draft.		 1754
65 F.J. Paris to R.H. Morris. Objects to leaving Mr. Heuley out
for Mr. York. Awaits instructions. Original.		 1754, April 23
66 R.H. Morris to F.J. Paris. Thinks the loss of their cause
before the Board of Trade due to the mismanagement of their Counsel. ??? satisfied that
Mr. Heuley will make himself master of the cause he will not be willing to have him in
charge of the case before the Privy Council. Original rough draft.		 1754
67 Mr. Paris to Mr. Morris. Desires Mr. Morris to attend a
consultation with Counsel before the hearing which will be soon. Original.		 1754, May 9
68 Draft of Paper from the Council for the Province of New
Jersey to ??? Thomas Robinson, Sec. of States. Thoughts upon the late disorders and
present circumstances of the Province. Original rough draft by R.H. Morris.		 1754, Aug.18
69 Resolves and Orders of the Assembly of Pennsylvania for
giving L10,000, and giving ??? to the amount of L15,000, and orders on the Treasury and
Law office to take the same, for ??? His Majesty’s Forces.		 1755, April 2
70 Assembly of New York. An Act to vest in Trustees a power of
selling any quantity of allocated lands within the Patents of Minisink, Wawayanda for
raising a sum not exceeding L10,000 from each of the said patents to defend the Title and
Possessions of the Proprietors of the said two patents against the Pretensions fo the
People of East New Jersey and other purposes therein mentioned. Bill passed. Ordered to be
carried to the Council for Concurrence.		 1756, Feb.16
71 James Alexander. Reasons why the Minisink and Wawayanda Bill
(the Preceding Act) should be rejected without a second reading. Original Draft.		 1756, Feb.
72 James Alexander to Andrew Johnston. Request that letter and
papers relating to the New Jersey trouble be laid before the Council of Proprietors for
their settlements. Original.		 1756, Mar.18
73 Draft of Order of Protection from His Majesty for Captain
Hobson arrested for enlisting servants in Pennsylvania. Original.		 1756
74 William Alexander to Robert Hunter Morris. Account of the
State of affairs of Oswego and Crown Point. Original.		 1756, June 18
75 William Alexander to Robert Hunter Morris. Left things in
Albany in a very good way. Mr. Abercrombie extremely well satisfied. Original.		 1756, July 5
76 William Alexander to Robert Hunter Morris. Acknowledges
appointment to the position of Surveyor General of New Jersey. Lord Landown and Mr.
Pownall will not be long together. Original.		 1756, July 11
77 Gen. W. Shirley to R.H. Morris. Anticipates seeing Mr.
Morris. Lord Londown will desire to get information from him. Original.		 1756, July 19
78 William Alexander to Robert Hunter Morris. General
Shirley’s conduct toward the Ministry approved of by the King. Gen. Shirley has
accomplished more than was expected of him. Pownall’s influence on the decline.		 1756, July 21
79 Copies of Lords of Committee of Council for Plantation
Affairs to the Lords Commisioners for Trade and Plantations. Referring to the latter the
petition of the General Proprietors of East Jersey.		 1756. Nov.24
2. John Pownall to F.J. Paris: Notice that ??? 21 December
1756 is appointed for hearing.		 1756, Dec.21
3. Motion for further delay from John Pownall. 1757, Jan.14
4. F.J. Paris to John Pownall. Has feed and instructed his
counsel for Tuesday next and begs their Lordships to hear		 1757, Jan.15
80 Lords of Trades Report to the Lords of the Committee of His
Majesty’s Privy Council for Plantation Affairs. For a temporary line between East
Jersey and New York until the Line petitioned for may be lain.		 1757, Jan.27
81 Directions for Affidavits respecting Commissioners for
setting the boundaries between New Jersey and New York.		 1757, Feb.9
82 Robert H. Morris to William Alexander. In relation to the
boundary line. Franklin probably intends to sail for England in order to complain of the
Proprietors of Pennsylvania		 1757, Feb.26
83 William Alexander to Robert Hunter Morris. About the York
Line and Lords of Traders’ Report in favor of a temporary line agreeable to the
Proprietors’ petition. Mr. Paris would have secured the object had not Mr. Pownall
suggested they were interested parties.		 1757, Mar.12

 

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