Catalogue description COUNSELLOR GILPIN.

--Substance of a verbal report made by Gilpin to the States General, after being with Lord Willoughby at Dordrecht.

His Lordship, being then on the point of departing for Zeeland, desires to state that on his arrival he will confer with his Council of War &c. concerning the resolution taken in regard to Sir J. Norris's proposal, to see how best the matter may be accomplished. He hopes the English companies will be found in as good order as those of other nations, but cannot conceal his fears that some difficulties may arise, seeing that no reduction can well be made without some sort of cassation. The captains from whom the men and arms are to be drawn will feel aggrieved, especially as most part of the arms belong to the captains, without their having had any other payment than the lendings ; the Governor of Vlissinges declares that he cannot spare any men, and the troops lately arrived at Rotterdam and then sent towards Bergen, because of the ice "sont demeurés soubz le pays de la plate, au grand interest des capitaines et officiers."

On reaching Zeeland, Lord Willoughby hopes to receive letters from her Majesty, stating what troops she wishes to go with Sir John Norris, and what satisfaction can be given to the captains whose men and arms are taken from them. He earnestly desires to content their Highnesses, and will notify all to them as soon as he can, declaring himself ready to do all things possible for the good of the country.

His Lordship has also given a note of her Majesty's last letter to Mr. Gilpin to present to them, praying them to return an answer to the said Mr. Gilpin without delay.