356 Proceeditigs of the Council of Maryland, 1681—85.

P. R. O.

Colonial
Papers.

hear of our neighbour's house burnt it calls for our care. I
humbly advise that the publication of our late laws be hastened
and in the first place in S^t Marys, Charles and Somerset
Countys, the rest as fast as may be. The restraining Commis-
sioners expenses, incouragements to Maryland owners and
sowers of hemp and flax, tillage &c. and the makinge of lynen
and woolens; and though wee have weake hands and short leggs
yet may work something. The very name of them gives a
good sounde: I did not much feare our Militia being braine-
sick, but think it is convenient to keep them from infection as
much as may be. Pray pardon this hasty letter, you will heare
more suddenly. If your Honour sees Catterson pray hasten
him to send my letters over to me.
My humble service presented I rest
Your honours humble servant
Will Steevens
Cherry poynt
15^th or 16^th May 1682.
(Endorsed)
To the hon^ble Philip Calvert Esq^re Chancellor of Maryland
in his absence to the hon^ble Secretary of New York.

Letter from W. Stevens to the right hon^ble Philip Calvert
Esq^K dated 16^th May. 1682. & to the Secr^y of Maryland.

Sirs,
Since my wrighing the inclosed have had the oportunity to
see under Sir H: C:'s hand the originalls of the Orders to the
Militia Officers & the Proclamacon against these riotous and
tumultuous persons. You must take the news as I heare it—
I am apt to think there is much truth in it. One that spake
with them (as I am told) says that the cutters doe say they will
make a generall Cessation. I think the Proclamacon without
other speedy means will be but like a little water throwne on
fire—&c. I am still in the same mind concerneing the publi-
cacon of our laws which makes me wright as I doe the
inclost. Excuse haste, my zeal makes me thus trouble your
Hon^rs &c. in much haste subscribe myselfe as I am
Your Hon^rs faithfull servant
W. S.

I think it impertinent to acquaint his Lordshipp I wright the
best that I heare giving allowance for some things.

(Endorsed)
To the Hon^ble Philip Calvert Esq^re
Chancellor of Maryland at S^t Marys
and to the hon^ble Secretary of Maryland.

hast for his Lordshipp's service
Will. Steevens.