The Despatches of Sir Robert Sutton 1953

DESPATCHES OF SIR ROBERT SUTTON
i. Sir Robert Sutton, Ambassador at Constantinople, to Lord Sunderland,

Secretary of State.
[3a] Pera of Constantinople,
May the 13 th 1710.
My Lord
I have lately received the honour of Your Lordships Commands under the
17th of January past. Monsr Desalleurs 1 being appointed to relieve the Marquis de
Feriol 2 the French Embassadour at this place, and being arrived from Mongatch
at Jassy in Moldavia, desired leave to wait on the King of Sueden,3 which the Vizir
Azem 4 at first refused, but afterwards of his own accord granted; so that he made
a short turn to Bender,5 and is since arrived here without his Credentials, which he
is daily expecting with his Equipage and part of his family by a Man of War from
France.
The King of Sueden, after great disputes concerning the manner of his reception
of the Capigi Bashi, who carried him the Gr. Sigr>s 6 Presents of 30 horses, a rich
furniture set with Diamonds and precious stones and some mony, received them
with great Expressions of acknowledgment and esteem, and presented 6000 Hungar-
Ducats to the Capigi Bashi and 4000 to the other Officers, who attended him : But
all the persuasions and arguments, that the Pasha 7 was able to use to him, could
not prevail with him to accept the Present from the Vizir Azem. His Majesty
thought fit to declare in writing the reasons of his refusal and of his resentments
against him, the chief whereof were the affront put upon his Envoy 8 in the case
of the Suedish Slaves, who fled to his House from the Muscovite Embass r . 9 and
the Vizir's proposal and insisting upon his Majesty's surrendring the Cossacks, who
attended or followed him into this Country, to the Muscovites. His Majesty carries
his Resentments [36] so high, that he told Monsr Desalleurs, that he would either
compasse the Vizir's Deposition, or make peace with Muscovy. On the other
1
Pierre Puchot, Comte Des Alleurs, Seigneur de Clinchamp, French ambassador at Con-
stantinople
2
1711-16.
Charles Ferriol (Feriol), Baron d'Argental, French ambassador at Constantinople 1699-1711
* Charles XII.
* Tchorlulu Ali Pasha, Turkish Grand Vizier, May 1706-June 1716.
5
The Turkish fortress on the River Dniester where Charles XII took refuge after his defeat
at Poltava, July 1709.
*7 Sultan Ahmed III (1703-30).
8
Yusuf Pasha, governor of the vilayet of Ozii, see below.
Martin Neugebauer, Swedish envoy at Constantinople, July 1709-May 1711.
* Peter Andreevich Tolstoy, Russian ambassador at Constantinople, 1702-14.
13
14 DESPATCHES OF SIR ROBERT SUTTON
side the Vizir is so much imbittered against the King, that he hath used very dis-
respectfull language against him, and seeks to revenge the contempt shewn him
by the refusal of his Presents and that Prince's treatment of him since, by traversing
him and his Minister in all matters relating to his interests.
The Tartar Han 1 is lately come to visit and confer with his Suedish Majesty,
remaining at Bender when the last Letters came thence. He hath taken some
disgust by reason of the difficulties, which arose about the Ceremonial and the
manner of his Reception by the King, which there being no means found to adjust
to their mutual satisfaction, they agreed upon the Expedient, that their interview
and Conference should be on Horseback, and I am told that thro' some accident
or misunderstanding his Maty disappointed him the first time they were to meet.
However the Tartars are so desirous of a rupture with the Muscovites, and
improve all opportunities of Complaints against them to such a degree, that the
Port hath a hard task to contain the former in their duty. They have newly
remonstrated, to the Port, that a Party of Muscovites had stoln from them 2000
horses after having cut in pieces a small number of Tartars, that guarded them. I
have good information, that the matter of fact is true in the main, and that it and
other incounters, which happen upon the Frontiers, very much [4a] perplex the
Ministers of the Port. There is also arrived at Bender a Minister from a Prince
of the Kalmoock Tartars,2 who offers to embrace the Mahometan Religion with his
whole Country, provided the Proposals he makes against the Muscovites be accepted.
He is designed hither, and after his arrival I may possibly be able to give your Lord-
ship some account in what his Overtures consist, whereof I am not yet clearly
informed.
The Tartar Han is a Prince of a very restlesse, bold and enterprizing temper,
and in his present Intrigues is intirely supported and abbetted by his whole Nation,
who universally side with him. It is uncertain what the issue of them may be here- •
after, when the King of Sueden's affairs shall be in a better posture, at which time it
will be exceedingly difficult for the Port to prevent them from entring upon hostihties
against the Muscovites. But for the present, 3not only the Gr. Sigr himself, but the
Vizir Azem and the other Ministers, the Mufti and men of the Law, and the people
in general are averse to a war with Muscovy; and will not engage in one, unlesse
they be drawn into it against their Wills by the Tartars.
I have used all possible endeavours to inform my self of the manner and time
of his Suedish Majesty's Retreat out of this Country ; but can get no certain intelli-
gence about either of those particulars. I am confident that no man at this place
knows his Majesty's intentions in those respects, and doubt very much whether
any body besides himself is acquainted therewith. There is even reason to believe
[46] that he hath not yet taken any certain and fixed measures for that purpose.
He hath lately very warmly reclaimed the Promises of the Turks to conduct him
1
2
Devletgerey (Dawlat Giray) II, khan of the Crimea (1698-1702, 1707-13).
3
Ayuka, taisha (khan) of the Kalmucks : see S. Soloviev, Rossii, iii. 860 and passim.
The Milftu or Mufti (Shaikh al-Islam), the canon lawyer who gave a Fetva (legal ruling),
the chief of the Ulema, who in these despatches are called the ' men of the law '. At this time
the post was occupied by Ebezade Abdullah Efendi.
DESPATCHES OF SIR ROBERT SUTTON 15
with a great Body of Troops thro' Poland into his own Territories without any
effect, there being no appearance of any assistance of that kind to be expected
from the Port. Offers have likewise been made to borrow mony of this Governm*
but intirely without successe; insomuch that I understand, that his Majesty hath
ordered the Baron Erenschioldx and the others into Germany to provide mony
for his occasions. This shews that he hath no thoughts of leaving this Country
very suddenly. In the mean time it is very plain, that he hath an extraordinary
aversion to retire either by Sea, or thro' the Emperour's Countries with a safe-
conduct, and in all appearance he inclines more to attempt another passage.
It is certain, that the King of Sueden hath lately conveyed to the Gr. Sigr,
without the Gr. Vizir's knowledge, very long Memoirs and Remonstrances relating
to the State of Affairs and his interests with Muscovy, which the Sultan himself
hath communicated to the Vizir, and the Selictar Aga hath been disgraced for present-
ing one of them to his Master. Neverthelesse I have certain knowledg, that the
Sultan hath lately sent several persons privately and in disguise to Bender to spy
and observe the condition and situation of affairs and what passes there. But
instead of making a faithfull report directly to himself, one or more of them have
at their return been secretly with the Vizir and [5a] received his Instructions what
they should represent.
Monsr Potocki2 the Palatin of Kiovia is lately arrived from upper Hungary with
about 40 persons in his retinue at Jassy,3 having left about 3000 Polish Horse on
the Confines of Poland and Moldavia. Sigr Nicolas Maurocordato Hospodar of
Moldavia refused to let him passe to Bender 'till he had given advice to the Port
of his arrival and received Orders thence : But the Port making no difficulty about
his passage, he is supposed to be already at Bender.
The Capitan Pashaw is gone with the Gallies to Ozou,4 the Fortifications of
which place are to be improved and enlarged, and Gianum Hogia5 with about
5 ships of War is sailed to the Streight of Crim Tartary with ammunition and other
necessaries for the Castle of Kersi,6 which they are endeavouring to put into a better
condition of defense. I am with all imaginable respect
My Lord
Your Lordship's
most humble, most faithfull
and most obedient servant
Rob. Sutton
1
Baron Ehrenskiold.
* Jozef Potocki, Palatin of Kiovia, one of the principal partisans of King Stanislaus I of
Poland
3
and Charles XII.
4
Capital of Moldavia.
6
Ozii, Ozu or Ozi, a Turkish fortress at the mouth of the Bug ; later the Russian Otchakov.
6
Djanim Khodja, a well-known Turkish Admiral of this time.
Kertch, at the eastern tip of the Crimea.
2. Sutton to Sunderland.
i June 1710
My Lord
I last paid my respects to your Lordship the 13th past, since which I am honoured
with your Commands of the 28th March. I must beg your Lordship's pardon for
a wrong information I gave you touching an interview of the King of Sueden and
the Tartar Han on horseback near Bender. 'Tis true that the difficulties of the
Ceremonial hindring the Han to visit his Majesty, the former proposed an incounter
and conference on horseback; but the King of Sueden rejected it, returning for
answer, that if the Han was desirous to see him and confer with him about any
affairs of importance, he ought to visit him, and should in such case be civilly received
and entertained; but that when he mounted on horseback, 'twas for his diversion
and exercise, and that he was used to ride so hard, that it would be incommodious
to the Han to accompany him. This refusal was something displeasing to the
Han, who is still at Bender, but hath not diverted him from keeping a good corres-
pondence with his Suedish Majesty.
The Palatin of Kiovia's Troops are cantoned about Jassy in Moldavia.
The Suedes seem to flatter themselves, that the Turks will at length consent
to perform their first promise by furnishing a Body of Troops for conducting that
King thro' Poland. I can scarce believe, that either the Port will yield to it, which
would be [66] the readiest way to breed a rupture with the Muscovites and Poles,
or that his Majesty makes any account of it. But his measures not being ripe for
his retreat out of this country, he is willing to have a specious Pretext for staying
longer, and so insists very earnestly on the execution of that promise, which he
saith he hath all along fully depended upon. Many of his own people are of opinion,
and talk as if they knew that orders are given for the March of a Body of his own
Troops through Poland, to receive and conduct his Majesty, imagining it to be
feasible after all that hath passed for the neutrality of the Provinces of the Empire
and of Poland. This looks like a desperate attempt, and I know not what Credit
is to be given to it. If there is any thing of this nature in agitation, Your Lordship
will be acquainted of it sooner from other parts.
The Person who arrived some months ago at Bender was only sent on the part
of a Palatin commanding on the Frontiers of Poland. The Seraskier on that place
sent him back with an odd answer, and valued himself to the Suedish Ministers,
as if he had sent back a Messenger from King Augustus,1 from whome there is lately
arrived here a Minister to give part to the Port of his return and resumption of the
Government of Poland. He hath had his audiences ; But by reason of his forward
communication with the Muscovite Embassadour, which gave some jealousy, he is
[ya] closely kept up and observed, and not allowed to visit any forreign Minister.
I am . . .
1
Frederick Augustus, elector of Saxony (1670-1733), king of Poland with the title of
Augustus II (1679-1733).
7 June 1710
My Lord1
The last I had the honour to write your Lordship was of the first instant, since
which we have had an unexpected change, which I would thnot omit to acquaint2
Your Lordship of by the first opportunity. On Sunday the 4 instant AH Pashaw
the Vizir Azem was 3deposed, and the Seal given to Numan Pashaw eldest of the
House of Kiuproglu, a man very much famed for justice and integrity, and very
far in the Esteem and affections of the people, insomuch that his promotion to the
Vizirat hath caused an universal joy. He is a man very learned in and a great
Observer of the Law, exceedingly curious and inquisitive into the situation and
interes(ts) of Forreign Countries, and esteemed to be well skilled in them as well
as the interests of this Empire, for which he is very zealous. 'Tis little doubted
but he will favour the King of Sueden more then his Predecessor did : but whether
he will endeavour or be able to alter the measures lately taken with the Muscovites
is a question. I shall inform Your Lordship the best I can what shall passe relating,
to those affairs.
The Suedes seem to have an opinion, that, if his Suedish Majesty could bring
an Army to the frontiers of this Country and Muscovy, they should be immediately
joined by the Tartars, and breed a rupture between the Port and Muscovy. I
am . . .
3 July 1710
My Lord
On the 7th past I had the honour to acquaint your Lordship of the sudden
Deposition of the Prime Vizir Ali Pashaw and the Advancement of Numan Pasha
Kiuproglu to that Post. The Enemies of the former, the Chief whereof is the
Selictar Pasha Recab Kaimacam 4 married to the Sultan's Daughter and his great
favourite, as well as the King of Sueden, Isuf Pasha 5 of Bender and the Tartars,
have exceedingly exasperated the Sultan against him ; insomuch that his Highnesse
certainly demanded a Fetfa or Sentence of the Mufti for cutting off his head which
the Mufti being his friend and willing to shelter him declined and excused giving,
as finding nothing alledged against him worthy of death by their Law, upon which
occasion the present Vizir Azem likewise interceded in his favour. Neverthelesse
1
8
Letter written throughout in Sutton's own hand.
a
Tchorlulu Ali Pasha.
Kopriilii, a family to which several famous viziers of the seventeenth century belonged.
* Silihdar {' armour-bearer '), Ali Pasha, son-in-law of Ahmed III, afterwards Grand Vizier
(1713-18); at this time he was Rikab-i Humayun Kaymakami, i.e. substitute for the Grand Vizier
in the
5
latter's absence.
See above, p. 13, n. 7.
'tis generally believed the Sultan persists in his desire to take away his life and is
seeking lawful grounds for it, having as I hear from good hands, sent an Order to
Isuf Pasha of Bender to send informations of all the Orders and proceedings of the
said Ali Pasha late Vizir Azem, relating to the Affairs of the Suedes and Muscovites,
since the time, that an Aga was dispatched to the King of Sueden then lately returned
out of Saxony into Poland.
The King of Sueden who has great reason to be pleased with the change of the
Vizir, continues to declare, that he cannot retire from Bender without a sufficient
force to passe thro' Poland, and challenges the former Promise [nob] of the Port
to conduct him with a great Body of Men to his own Territories. The present Vizir
hath insisted very positively with the Muscovite Embassad1 for the Czar's 1 consent r
to that King's marching with about 30™ men thro' Poland, requiring the Embassad
to dispatch an Expresse to the Court of Muscovy for that purpose, and return the
Czar's answer within a very short time, and, as I am assured by good hands, used
Expressions importing that the Port would take its measures in case of a refusal.
The Vizir is known to be of a tenacious temper : but whether he be really resolved
to lend his Suedish Majesty a large Body of Troops to conduct him, or hath only
made this step to save appearances, and will afterwards either wholly desist from
his demand, or abate of it, or be contented with some Medium proposed by the
Czar for that King's passage, a short time will best discover. 'Tis certain that the
Port is much concerned for his person and interests, and would be glad to provide
any means for his safe retreat into Germany, to which at least the present Vizir
seems to esteem the Sultan engaged in honour.
The King of Sueden's Design in insisting upon succours for his Passage thro'
Poland is evidently to breed a rupture between the Port and the Poles and Musco-
vites, which in case they are granted, may well be supposed to be inevitable. The
Forces which the Turks have hitherto about Bender and on the Frontiers of Muscovy,
may amount to between 20™ and 30™ men the greatest part Cavalry: but they
are such [ma] wretched, raw, undisciplined, disorderly Troops, and are so con-
temptible in the Eyes of his Suedish Majesty, that he could make no dependance
on them, if they should meet with any opposition, and it would be very adventurous
to hazard his Person with them, unlesse they were to be joined by a Body of his
own Troops in Poland.
There have been of late some small quantities of Canon and Ammunition sent
hence by the Black Sea to their Frontier places on that side.
The Tartar Han after fruitlesse Proposals of an interview with the King of
Sueden on horseback or under Tents at length thought fit to visit his Maj*y and
confer with him, and was by the last advices still at Bender.
Monsr Potocki the Palatine of 2Kiovia hath been here, and was twice with the
Reis Effendi. He is now at Brussia making use of the hot Baths, by virtue whereof
he hopes to be eased of the pains he felt by reason of some old Bruises he received
formerly.
Ali Pasha the late Vizir Azem was made Pasha of Caffa 3 which is a miserable
1 2
Peter the Great (1682-1725). Bursa (Brusa).
3
Kefe (Kafia), the modern Theodosia, on the southern shore of the Crimea.
poor Governm* upon his Deposition. He is now at Adrianople, where he is raising
men, being ordered to march with 3000 Soldiers levied and maintained at his own
Expence to the Frontiers of Muscovy.
It hath hitherto been the Maxim of the Port to treat the Muscovite Embassa-
dours and [111 b] Ministers with great Jealousy, confining them to their Houses,
which were ever appointed them in the City of Constantinople remote from the
Quarters of other Forreign Ministers, under the guard of a Chamber of Janissaries,
without permitting any visits between them and the said Ministers. But the late
Vizir 'Azem having promised the present Embassadour the liberty to choose his
quarters where he pleased, and the same freedom which other Forreign Ministers
enjoy, the present Prime Vizir hath given him leave to remove to a House, which
he had taken and prepared for himself here at Pera, which accordingly he did on
the 29th past, and is now in all appearance upon the same foot as we, and going
to receive and return our Visits. Few people could believe, that the Port would
really give him this liberty, till they saw him actually in possession of it. In con-
sideration of it, and as a means to obtain it, he gave up the allowance, which according
to custome he received of the Port for his Entertainment. I am . . .
5. Sutton to Lord Dartmouth.

1 October 1710
My Lord
Tho' distance of place may make me one of the last to expresse my joy at Her
Majesty's choice of your Lordship for Principal Secretary of State, 1 I crave leave
to assure you, that no body can be before me in the respect and Esteem, which
is due to your Lordship's Person and great merit. And having the happinesse
to be under Your Orders, I humbly beg the honour of your Lordship's Protection,
which I shall make it my utmost endeavour to deserve by all possible returns of
Duty, submission and obedience to Your Commands, whenever Your Lordsp pleases
to favour me with them.
There is little for your Lordship's information from these parts, except what
relates to the King of Sueden and the measures which the Port observes towards
him, the Muscovites and Poles. That Prince, since the Renewal of the Truce with
Muscovy,2 hath thought fit and still continues to insist very earnestly on the per-
formance of a Promise made him by the Port, soon after his retreat into this Country,
to conduct him with an Army to his own Territories. 'Tis certain, that the Turks
have often repeated to him their assurances of carrying him safe home. But their
constant practice being to be liberal of good words, when they design to serve them-
selves of any one for their own purposes, as they did of the King of Sueden's Stay
upon the Frontiers to give a jealousy to the Muscovites, and whet them to an eager-
nesse to renew their Treaty of Truce, when they had recovered themselves a little
[10b] from their first Allarms and apprehensions, and perceived the said Muscovites
1
8
Lord Dartmouth had succeeded Lord Sunderland as Secretary of State in June 1710.
I.e. the treaty of the year 1700.
as loath to quarrell as themselves, who were wholly unprepared at that time, 'tis
plain that the Ministers of the Port meant no more in reality then to provide for
that Prince's return thro' Poland under a small Convoy and safe conduct from the
Czar, to which they induced the Muscovite Embass1 to Engage for his Master's
Agreement. The late Vizir Azem Numan Pashaw Kiuprogli some time after his
receiving the Seal made an attempt to extend this concession, requiring the Embassadr
in terms somewhat positive and haughty, after the usual manner of the Turks, to
write to the Czar for his consent that a considerable Body of Turks and Tartars
might attend the King of Sueden thro' Poland. This was an undigested Prdposal,
and made without due consideration, insomuch that the Vizir himself desisted from
it before his own deposition, which happened before the return of the Czar's answer,
by whose Order the Emb r at present offers a safe conduct for a small Body of men
to accompany his Suedish Majesty with a Muscovite Commissary thro' Poland.
That Prince is very far from accepting this offer for reasons very obvious, (for which
I suppose the Muscovites are aware that they hazard nothing in making it) his principal
design in demanding a large Body of Turks and Tartars being to create a rupture
between the Port, Poland and Muscovy, wch in that case would be inevitable. He
is averse from retiring by Sea, which the Port hath proposed to him, and likewise
shews no inclination to passe thro' the Emperour's Countries, wch hath been offer'd
by his Imp1 Maj*y with all the advantages and marks of respect due to His Maj*y.
I presume one of the difficulties, wch lies in his way, is the number of his attendants ;
for besides the Suedes, he hath [na] a good number of Cossacks and Wallacks
and the Palatine of Kiovia's Troops, which are quartered in Moldavia and are now
reduced to two or three thousand, none of which can he entertain any thoughts of
abandoning, tho' it will be very difficult to carry them along with him. It is evident
that his Majesty hath no intention of removing this winter, nor do I hear of any
dispositions made towards it.
The Port makes him a considerable allowance of Provisions and Forrage for the
subsistence of his Troops, and the late Vizir Numan Pashaw prevailed with the
Sultan to lend him 400.000 Dollars, whereof f were assigned on the Tributes of
Wallachia and Moldavia and of Bender and the parts adjacent, and the other 100.000
Dollars on the Exchequer, one moiety of wch last sum was paid before the Deposition
of Numan Pasha, and the payment of the other suspended 'till the arrival of Mehmet
Pashaw 1 the present Prime Vizir from Aleppo, who "hath since ordered the payment
of it. The rest was kept ready at Bender 'till further directions should be given
for the delivery of it, which no doubt have been already sent for that purpose. By
these and other circumstances it very clearly appears, that the Turks have a kindnesse
and respect for his Suedish Majesty, whose interests they have much at heart, and
would rejoyce to see him recover his strength and in a condition to cope with the
Czar and the King of Poland. But they are very uneasy at his so long stay in this
Country, and exceedingly embarrassed how to deliver themselves handsomely from
the obstinacy he shews, being unwilling to disoblige him, but more unwilling to
comply with his desires, or rather absolutely resolved against i t ; for the Sultan
1
Baltadji Mehmed Pasha, Grand Vizier 1704-6 and Sept. 1710-Nov. 1711. He was com-
mander-in-chief of the Turkish army during the Pruth campaign (1711).
and those who are most in his favour and confidence, as well as the present Prime
Vizir and other Ministers are so averse to war, that there is not the [n&] least appear-
ance of a rupture with either Poland or Muscovy without an entire change of
Government, whereof there is little danger for the present, tho' the people be much
prejudiced against the Sultan for his avarice and Extortions; so that the chief
advantage, w011 the King of Sueden is likely to draw from his longer abode at Bender
is the umbrage it may give the Czar, and the diversion of those Muscovite Troops,
which are said to be marching towards these Frontiers. Imperial Commands have
been lately sent to Bender and Directions to Crim Tartary to keep a friendly corres-
pondence with the Muscovites, and avoid all occasions of disputes and disturbances.
Since this, the Tartar Han and the Seraskier of Bender are called hither, the Sultan's
under-Master of the Horse x being dispatched to the later, whome being of a turbulent
humour, 'tis believed, the Port designs to depose.
The greatest part of the Spahis, by reason of the scarcity and dearth of Forrage,
are retired home from Bender, whereupon the Port hath ordered 5000 Janissaries
thither. The Samsongi Bashi 2 with his own and 9 more Chambers, which may
amount to 1500 or 1600 men, is already departed hence on his march thither, the
rest of the 5000 being to be raised at Adrianople.
The Muscovite Embassadour, since his being treated like other Forreign Ministers
and his Removal from Constantinople to Pera, hath made his utmost Efforts to
gain the precedence of the Embassadours of Crowned heads in giving the first visit
to new Prime Vizirs; but that point hath been decided against [12a] him by the
present Vizir, for which reason the Embassadour hath not yet seen him; and as
I am informed, to disguise the matter he is endeavouring to procure an audience
more solemn then ordinary on occasion of delivering some letters, which he hath
from his Master to the Gr. Signor and Grand Vizir.
6. Sutton to Dartmouth.
5 October 1710
My Lord
Since the writing [of] the foregoing, the Imp 1 Resident 3 hath been with the Vizir
Azem,4 and by the Emperour's Order, grounded on Numan Pashaw's late Proposal
to the Muscovite Emb r , represented to him that the undertaking to conduct the
King of Sueden with an army of Turks and Tartars thro' Poland must inevitably
be attended with great inconveniences, and even occasion Hostilities, whatever
discipline they should propose to keep their Troops under in their passage. That
the King of Sueden's Design in demanding it was only to create a rupture. That
His Imp1 Maj*>r could look upon it no otherwise then a designed Breach of the Treaty
1
2
Kiitchiik Mirahor ; Junior Equerry, one of the high officials at the court of the sultan.
Samsondju bashi, the title of the general commanding the 71st chamber of Segban, the third
division
3
of the Corps of Janissaries, who were called Samsondju (' keepers of bulldogs ').
Michael Talmann, Resident of the Emperor at Constantinople, 1703—13.
* Baltadji Mehmed Pasha.
concluded with Poland at Carlowitz.1 That in case the Port should in such manner
enter into a war wth Poland, He lay under such engagemts to that Crown as would
oblige him to take a share therein. But that, if the Kings of Sueden only sought
for a safe Retreat home, His Imp1 Maj*y offered him passage thro' His own Countries
with all security, and such honours and respect as are due to so great a Prince.
The Vizir answered, that the Port had offered the King of Sueden to transport him
by Sea, and had likewise proposed to him to return thro' the Empr>s Countries;
but [12b] that he refused both, and positively declared he would either passe thro'
Poland or stay where he is. That they had endeavoured to persuade him to remove
from Bender and retire further this way, w°h he had likewise rejected. That he
would still lie where he first fell. The Vizir then enter'd into discourses about the
great number of Muscovite Forces upon the Confines, and particularly in the frontier
Provinces of Poland, shewing some jealousy and dislike thereof, and asking what
they had to do there. The Resid4 telling him, that as long as the King of Sueden
remained at Bender, the Muscovites thought it necessary to keep numerous Forces
in those parts to watch his motions; but that they would undoubtedly withdraw
them, as soon as that Prince should be departed; the Vizir let an Expression fall
as if he believed, that they would not quit the Polish Provinces, unlesse they were
driven out, and asked the Resident whether he could answer for their retiring after
the departure of his Suedish Majesty, to which the Resident replyed that he had
no orders to engage for it, but that in such case the Emperour would be as unwilling
to see the Muscovites remain in possession of the Polish Provinces as the Port is,
and that his Imp1 Majtv hath a much greater Frontier with that Kingdome, then
the Sultan hath. The Vizir was much pleased with this answer. Neverthelesse he
did not explain himself about the Enterprize of conducting the King of Sueden
thro' Poland, but said he would make report of the Resident's Remonstrances to
the Sultan, and desired him, to dictate them to the Druggerman of the Port, which
was done accordingly. The Resident hath two Imp1 Couriers now here, and is
resolved to return one of them without delay, so that 'tis doubtfull whether the Port's
[13a] answer upon the Vizir's Report will be received before his departure.
The Resident seems to apprehend by the Vizir's discourse, that the Port
doth entertain thoughts of carrying the King of Sueden thro' Poland next summer,
and even extends his surmises further. I am very confident, that they have hitherto
formed no such Design, nor have any disposition to it, I have all the reasons imagin-
able to believe, that they will never give way to it upon any account.
At the Audience which the Suedes Envoy 2 and Monsieur Poniatowski3 had
together of the Vizir, He gave for answer to their instances; That the Gr. Sigr
having lately renewed the Truce with the Czar of Muscovy, he could not violate
it by entring into a war with him ; But that the Gr. Sigr's honour and Decorum
and his friendship with his Suedish Majesty would oblige him to treat that Prince with
all possible civility and kindnesse, to assist him, and to provide for his safe return home.
1 a
3
In 1699. Martin Neugebauer.
General Stanislaus Poniatowski (1676-1762), a Polish nobleman, father of the last Polish
King Stanislaus II Augustus (1764-98). He was friend and companion to Charles XII during
his stay in Turkey.
The Port is about making better provision for the subsistence of the Troops
belonging to or depending on the King of Sueden, then hath been done hitherto.
A list of them hath been delivered in at the Port, which makes them amount to 11,300
men, viz* 6000 Cossacks, 4000 Poles and 1300 Suedes, which I suppose exceeds their
true number, but will serve to augment their allowance.
'Tis little doubted but the Tartar Han will be deposed after they have drawn him
hither, and some think the Seraskier of Bender will not come to the Port, but is
only called to blind the Other, Orders being given that he wait the coming of the
Tartar Han, meet him at a [136] place appointed on the river Nieper x and accompany
him in his journy. But 'tis surmised that, when the Han shall be secured, the
Seraskier will return back to his Post.
The Seraskier lately gave advice to the Port that an Envoy ExtraordTy 2 was upon
his way from the King of Poland with a large Retinue, and demanded Instructions
before hand, according to Custome, about his Reception and proceeding to the
Port, that he might not detain him on the Frontiers 'till he should receive Orders,
upon which I am told Directions have been given to let him proceed. I am . . .
28 October 1710
My Lord
I humbly paid my respects to Your Lop under the I st and 5 th inst. since which
I have received the honour of your Letters of the 27 June and 15th of Aug* past.
The former was, I suppose by a mistake of the Postmaster of Amsterdam, sent
with many other Letters for my self and the Nation to Leghorne, whence it came
by Sea, and arrived here but few dales ago. I am infinitely obliged to Your Lordsp for
the hopes you was pleased to give me of Your Protection, and beg leave to Expresse
anew my joy to be under Your Lords?'8 Orders, and to assure you of my best endeav-
ours to deserve so great an honour and advantage, and of my devotion to your Lop's
person and service.
I will be very carefull to observe the orders your L6p gave me in the later relating
to the Affairs of the Port with the Muscovites and Poles. Besides what I informed
Your Lop of in my last, I have now the honour to acquaint you, that the further
the Scene opens the more clearly it appears, that the Grand Signor and his Ministers
have no thoughts of a rupture with those Powers, and their reasons for observing
the peace with them grow daily stronger, insomuch that there seems to be no ground
to apprehend any thing of that Kind without a great Revolution in this Governm*
whereof there is no likelyhood in view, tho' it be evident, that the people is very much
dissatis[i4&]fied with the present Sultan. But there are no Heads to lead them
to a Revolt, and great vigilancy is used to prevent any conspiracy by banishing all
suspected Persons and Malecontents of any Rank or distinction, and by all other
Methods practiced in this Government.
1
Dnieper. ' Rybinski.
The Tartar Han arrived hero some daies ago, but I do not learn that any Con-
ferences have been yet held with him. We cannot yet penetrate the Port's design
in calling him hither, further then to draw from him all the Information and lights
they can relating to the Affairs which now come under consideration. He hath
favoured the Designs of the King of Suedefi as far as he could well venture to do i t :
But 'tis believed, that if he discovers himself to be still in the same disposition, he
will be deposed, the Port disliking his restlesse and turbulent temper.
The Emperour's Resident hath not received any further answer from the
Vizir to the Representations which he made on his Imp1 Majesty's part against the
Turks conducting the King of Sueden with an army thro' Poland, neither hath he,
as he tells me, demanded any, and he now likewise declares himself of opinion, that
the Port never had any real meaning or intention to undertake it. 'Tis certain
that the Reis Effendi * disowns the Promise, which his Suedish Majesty insists on,
and maintains to his Ministers here that the late Vizir Azem's words were misunder-
stood, and did not extend to such a promise, and that, if any [i5«] mention was made
of his Majesty's passage thro' Poland with a great Body of Turks and Tartars, 'twas
only by way of inquiry and consultation what might be practicable for that King's
retiring home in safety, and not an engagem* to conduct him in such a manner.
How the businesse of that Prince's Retreat will be determined at length is not
easy to foresee. The most probable opinion is, that the Port will endeavour by
way of intercession to agree wth the Czar of Muscovy and the King of Poland
about a Route for his retiring thro' Poland, if he can by any means be prevailed
on to accept it, the Czar having already enlarged his Amb r s former verbal concession
so far, as to allow him passage with 5000 men. But no notice hath been yet taken
of it to the King of Poland, and the matter is attended with so many other difficulties,
that it will be hard to settle it, although his Suedish Majesty should be brought to
hearken to it. As any thing further shall come to my knowledg concerning these
affairs, I will constantly acquaint Your Lop with it.
The French return again this year with great numbers of ships and Barks to
lade corn in the Archipelago, each Fleet being convoyed by one, two, or 3 Men of
War, which take their Lading in corn and are weakly armed and manned. Monsieur
Desalleurs hath at length received his Credentials, and is expecting his Equipage
by two [156] Ships of War from Toulon, which are designed to take in a quantity of
corn and carry away his Predecessour the Marquis de Ferriol.
Tho' it would be expedient in this conjuncture, that there should be some
Minister with a Character from Poland at the Port, we hear nothing of Monsieur
Ribinski's approaching the Frontiers, but on the contrary are advised from Bender,
that he is no more designed hither, but Monsr Simonski Standard Bearer of the
Crown appointed to come in quality of Ambassadour.
There hath been some time ago Discourse about the Suedes Forces lately com-
manded by General Crassau 2 entring Poland to receive that Prince, but I presume
the Measures, which have been taken to prevent such an attempt, have render'd it
1
2
Abdulkerim Efendi.
General E. D. von Krassow, commander of the Swedish troops in Pomerania, numbering
about 8000 men.
impracticable, and that all thoughts of it, if it ever was designed, are now laid aside.
I beg the justice of Your Lordship to believe me with all imaginable respect.1
[i6al Pera of Constantinople,
16 November 1710
My Lord
th
Some daies after the last, weh I had the honr to write your LordsP under 2the
28 past, the Father in Law, and one of the Brothers, and the Divan Effendi of
Numan Pasha the late Vizir Azem were banished upon suspicion of their inclining
to promote disturbances, and the very mention of any thing tending to War was
esteemed enough to incur the Sultan's disgrace, his chief Ministers and favourites
being likewise men of peacable dispositions and little Experience, which hath given
the Tartar Han so fine an opportunity of warmly carrying on his Designs, that for
the present the face of Affairs is wholly changed. For some daies past the Allarm
hath been given, and all people talk of a War with Muscovy and Poland, as if it
was positively and absolutely concluded on. I have used my endeavours to learn
what hath passed, and the best account I am able yet to give your Lords? thereof
is as followeth. The Tartar Han, who hath been all along bent upon a rupture,
hath since his arrival, displayed all his Eloquence to persuade the Ministers, the
men of the Law, and the Soldiery of the Necessity thereof in this juncture, and
there being no man of Authority, knowledg and Experience to oppose him, his
Arguments found great ingression, some being really drawn over to his opinion,
and all others, who either before wished for a War or a change of Governm* as the
only means to bring the mony out of the Sultan's Coffers, and relieve them from
the great scarcity of mony and deadnesse of Trade the whole Country labours under,
siding with him and following him at their Head, this made such an impression
upon and struck so great an apprehension into the Gr. Sigr, that fearing [166] an
insurrection if He should stop the Torrent, he was the more disposed to hearken
to the Remonstrances of the Tartar Han, who thereupon suggested to him so much
concerning the growing Power and vast designs of the Czar, the imminent danger
to which the Tartars lye exposed, and the seasonablenesse and importance of the
present juncture to prevent the mischiefs, which threaten'd them in the future,
that the Sultan thro' jealousy and fear hath at present given way to the Han's
Proposals, and He hath these last daies had all the vogue and Credit at the Port.
He hath caused Isuf Pasha the Seraskier of Bender and Sigr Nicolas Maurocordato
Hospodar of Moldavia to be deposed, and Cara Mehmet Pasha to be put into the
place of the former and Sigr Demetrio Kantemir into that of the later.
'Tis assured that the Palatine of Kiovia and Monsr Poniatowski have offered
on the part of King Stanislaus of Poland, as a motive to induce the Port to espouse
the interests of that Prince and give him succour, to render that Kingdome Tributary
to the Gr. SigT and cede to him the Fortresse of Caminiec with the Province of Podolia,
1
The last paragraph of this letter is in Sutton's own hand.
2
Divan efendisi: Secretary of the divan (council).
pretending likewise continual and earnest Invitations from great men and gentry
of Poland to the King of Sueden and King Stanislaus to return into that Country.
It is now not only confessed as a Promise, but owned as an Obligation and
point of their Law to conduct the King of Sueden to his own Territories, and in
two great Councils, where the Tartar Han was present with the Vizirs of the Bench,
the Mufti and Caddileskiers, the Heads of the Soldiery and several old Officers of
the Janissaries, who were called to it contrary to custome, it hath been resolved to
[17a] carry that Prince thro' Poland with a Body of Turks and Tartars, and it being
then proposed whether they should enter into War with the Czar of Muscovy, in
case he should dispute, or oppose their passage, they all gave their opinion or assents
In the Affirmative. But they have not yet positively resolved a Rupture with
Muscovy, neither is the Mufti's Fetfa or sentence of the Lawfullnesse of it hitherto
come out, as I am informed; However, their determination to break with those,
that shall oppose their passage with the King of Sueden seems to render a War with
Muscovy and Poland inevitable. They intend to dispatch an Officer, and I am told
either the Kehaya or Hasnadar (Treasurer) of the Tartar Han to the Czar to declare
their intentions and receive his Answer, whether he will yield to or dispute their
passage thro' Poland, and they seem to make no account of King Augustus, having
now refused to admit Monsr Samonouski designed hither in quality of his Envoy
Extraord^.
Since the taking of these Counsels the Palatine of Kiovia departed the 13th
instant, having recd io111 Dollars from the Publick. The Tartar Han sets out today
on his return, the Prime Vizir accompanying him out of Town to Daud Pasha*
one of the Sultan's Country Houses, where he is to be entertained at dinner, and
thence proceed on his Journy. 'Tis not impossible that the Port may cool after his
departure, and listen to proposals of an accommodation about the King of Sueden's
passage with a set number of Troops to attend him, whereby time be gained, if the
troubles likely to ensue cannot be wholly prevented, wch will be difficult since matters
are come to so ill a passe ; especially since it may be apprehended that the Tartars,
who are exceedingly uneasy and restlesse, [17&] will not be restrained after the
countenance they have already received, from committing some disorder upon the
Frontiers.
I cannot inform Your Lordship of any thing certain relating to the number
of Forces designed to accompany his Suedish Majesty, or the time of their March.
The best intelligence I have received about the later point is, that they intend to
move about two months hence, and touching the former, that the King of Sueden's
own Troops consisting of 4 or 500 Suedes Officers and Soldiers, his Cossacks, Wallacks
and the Poles under the Palatine of Kiovia, the Port will give him io m Turks and a
great Body of Tartars. 'Tis said the latter are to be commanded by Calgah Sultan 4
the Tartar Han's Brother and Prime Vizir, and the Janissaries by Selim Aga, an old
Officer. What Pashas are designed for the Expedition I do not yet hear.
'Tis certain, that there are but few Troops at Bender, and all things are in
1
Davud Pasha, the plain about 8 miles from the land walls of the city, where the army-
assembled
2
on leaving Constantinople for Rumelia.
Kalga or Kalgay Sultan, the title of the heir-apparent among the Tartars of the Crimea.
a great backwardnesse, no Orders having been yet given for Preparations, except
at the Arsenal for the Equipping near twenty ships great and small, 30 half Gallies,
and as many Galeots.
The Gr. Sigr hath good sums of mony in his Treasury; But all the Pashaws
and Provinces are exceedingly poor, so that inr case of a war they will come very
weak into the field. Neither hath the Gr. Sig any Pashas of Experience in War,
nor old Officers, except a few among the Janissaries and the Troops will be almost
all composed of raw men. This is the present disposition and situation of affairs
here, as near as I can learn. In a short time we shall get a clearer insight into their
Designs, and I will be carefull to acquaint your LordsP by all opportunities of their
further proceedings and measures.
Since the writing what is above the Tartar Han is gone [i8«] out of Town in
great Pomp, the Prime Vizir conducting him to Daud Pashaw, whence he will go
forward this Evening after the Entertainment there prepared for him.
The Muscovite Ambr demanded an Audience of the Vizir, he hath appointed
it for tomorrow, after which we shall see better into their real Designs. There clearly
appears in the Gr. Signor and his Ministers an unwillingnesse to come to a quarrel,
and after the Tartar Han's back is turned, they will be tempted to listen to Proposals
of Accommodation,
r
few daies being past since the Reis Effendi sent the Muscovite1
Amb word in his own Terms that these Rivulets would2 all flow at last into his River.
But a little time will bring all to light. I am . . .
[iga] Pera of Constantinople,
20 November 1710
My Lord
I had the honour to acquaint your LordsP the 16th instant of the great change
happened here since the arrival of the Tartar Han, and the resolutions taken in
two great Councils relating to the Passage of the King of Sueden thro' Poland with
a Body of Turks and Tartars, and to a rupture with Muscovy and Poland. The next
day the Port manifested its intentions. The Muscovite Ambr going to the Audience
appointed him by the Vizir, at his landing at the usual place in Constantinople was
met by the Chiaux Bashi and Muxur Aga Captain of the Vizirs Guard of Janissaries,
who accosting him acquainted him, that they had orders from the Vizir to carry
him to the Seven Towers,3 after which, not suffering him to mount one of his own
Horses, they put him on an Ordinary Gelding and so conducted him thro' the Town
to the place of his confinem*. His retinue returned towards his House : but he
desiring that they might follow him, the above mentioned Officers sent to inform
the Vizir thereof, who approved it, and thereupon they were called back and carried
1
s
The passage in italics is underlined in the manuscript.
3
The last two paragraphs of this letter are in Sutton's own hand.
Yedikule, the Seven Towers, a state prison, built in one part of the land walls of Con-
stantinople, near the Golden Gate of the Byzantine times. Here were imprisoned the envoys or
ambassadors of enemy countries after a declaration of war.
C
to the Seven Towers by water. At the Emb r ' s request likewise, that his goods
might be sent after him, the Chiaoux Bashi and other Officers went to his House,
where in the presence of his Steward his plate and moveables were put into Chests
and sealed, and transported by water. Tho' they observed the best order they
could, several of the Janissaries, who enter'd into the House, could not be so well
watched but they pilfer'd many things of small value. This [196] being in Effect,
according to the Custome of the Port, a Declaration of War, a great Council is to
be held today touching their further Proceedings and Preparations for the Campaign.
This great Turn of Affairs is wholly the Work of the Tartar Han. I have
assured intelligence from a person, who is one of the Principal in their consultations,
that the Han after having used many arguments for a Rupture and magnifyed the
growing Power and vast designs of the Czar, representing among other things that
his Troops were fortifying Chozin * and establishing themselves on these Frontiers of
Poland, declared to the Sultan, that if he did not embrace his conjuncture, while it
was time, to prevent them, his Highnesse would not remain long on his Throne
at Constantinople, and told him positively, that he knew the whole Nation of the
Tartars would give themselves up to the Czar, to avoid their entire ruine, and that
above 3000 of them were already gone over to him, and had received so good Treat-
ment as to encourage the rest to follow their Example. That his person was at
his Highnesse's disposal; That he might banish him into an Island or do with
him what he pleased; But that he had taken his leave of his Women, Children
and Friends before he left Crimea, and was resolved to return no more thither without
a Declaration of War. This discourse accompanied with apprehensions of the Soldiery,
whor shewed themselves inclined to a war, made such an impression upon the Gr.
Sig , that he immediately [20a] excused himself for having renewed the Truce with
the Muscovites, laying the blame of it on Ali Pashaw the late Vizir, who had mis-
represented things to him, and diverted him from thoughts of War, and thereupon
he resigned himself up to the Han, who during his stay here had all the Credit and
power in his hands, as I have already informed Your LordsP. The Gr. Sigr desirous
to examine the truth of all, that hath been remonstrated to him concerning the
behaviour and Proceedings of the Muscovites, hath dispatched privately a faithfull
Messenger to Bender to take information thereof and spy what passes there. 'Tis
little doubted, but Ali Pasha will lose his head on this occasion, tho' great intercession
hath been made for him, and it is now ther publick discourse that he was corrupted
with great Bribes by the Muscovite Emb to renew the Truce, tho' r it be certain,
that the Port was more earnest and forward towards it then the Emb at that time.
To day they begin to list Janissaries of ConstantPle. They some time ago
called 4 Chambers of Janissaries from Belgrade, and now give Orders for a Draught
of seven of the eldest Janissaries and inferiour Officers as far as the Bairactar or
Ensign out of each Chamber at Belgrade and Temeswar.
'Tis generally believed the Tartars will suddenly make an incursion either into
Ukraina or Poland, for which I hear the Tartar Han had made dispositions before
he left Crimea.
I have learnt nothing further concerning [206] the time or number of Troops
1
Chocin, a town and fortress on the Dniester near Kamieniec-Podolsk.
designed for conducting the King of Sueden thro' Poland, but have had what I
wrote your LordsP on that subject confirmed to me by the same hand.
Monsr Desalleurs is dispatching a French Officer lately come from Hungary
to Monsr Seniauski 1 the Crown General of Poland his Lady, who is said to be in
the French interest, endeavouring by her means to debauch her Husband. I am . . .

8 December 1710
My Lord
My last were of the 16 and 20 past. Some daies ago I was with the Vizir Azem
to present Her Majesty's Letters to the Sultan and himself concerning the interests
of the Levant Company; and took that opportunity to open a discourse with him
about the present Affairs, upon which he entred into a long conversation to justify
the Proceedings of the Port. He imagined that I had Proposals to make on the
part of the Muscovites, to which he seemed very willing to give ear : but perceiving
his mistake, he afterwards enlarged very much upon the motives of their present
Resolutions and ran into complaint against the Muscovites, blaming the conduct
of the late Ministers for suffering themselves to be amused by them. He shewed
great jealousy of the growing power and ambitious Designs of the Muscovites, saying
that they had already reduced the Suedes to a low condition, and that the Port
had certain information that they intended to fall upon them in another year. That
they had built a great Fortresse at Taganrog upon the Palus Maeotis,2 another near
the Istmus of Precop,3 and a third at a small distance upon the Boristhenes.4 That
the Port had often complained thereof, but could never get any satisfactory answer.
That they had possessed themselves of a good part of Poland, and particularly
of that part w011 confines upon the Turkish Dominions. That the Port had com-
plained thereof, and desired them to withdraw their Forces thence, w011 they refused,
and that on the contrary they were fortifying themselves there, particularly at Chocin,
[236] and had put a large Garrison into Caminiec. That they had committed great
insolvencies on the Frontiers, and been guilty of many infractions of the Peace.
I That they had cut in pieces a great many Tartars, and carried away their Horses,
: Cattle and Goods. That the Czar had pretended precedence of other Kings and taken
[upon himself the title of Emperour. That they knew he promised himself to be
| one day Master of Constantinople, and that he had said he hoped to be buried in
|the Church of Sancta Sophia, and held other discourses to the same purpose. That
he had deceived them by renewing his Treaty of Truce, and that his Drift therein
only to gain time 'till he could more conveniently attack them, and that they
ad waited 'till the sword was put to their throats. He asked likewise what could
be the meaning of the numerous Vessells of all sorts, w011 the Czar kept in a readinesse,
ind had lately brought down to Asoph and Taganrog. And in fine he said that
the Sultan had not declared war against the Czar, nor would make war upon him,
1 s 3
Adam Sieniawski. Sea of Azof. Perekop.
4
Dnieper.
if he would submit, to reason; but that they would march to the Frontiers with
a numerous Army and see what measures would be taken. Then at last he asked
if the Christian Princes would in the like Circumstances have had so much patience
as the Port had shewn, and was desirous to know my opinion of their Proceedings,
if the Sultan had not reason to expect satisfaction, and if any body could answer
or engage for the sincere intentions and fair dealing of the Muscovites. Tho' the
Vizir said all this without that passion [24a] which is custumary and even natural
to the Ministers of the Port, and most if not all his Discourse was easy to be answered,
it plainly appeared by my offering to rectify some of his apprehensions, that no
Arguments on the other side would find any ingression. The impressions which
the Tartar Han hath left upon their minds, are so deep, that almost nothing can
efface them, and tho' the Sultan and his Ministers and a great part of the people
very plainly enter unwillingly upon this war, the chief men of the Law and the
Soldiery have now such an opinion of the necessity of it, that it is not in the Sultan's
power to hinder it without evident danger of a Rebellion, some of the old Officers
of the Janissaries having boldly declared to his Highnesse, that it ought to have
been commenced above two years ago. If any Proposals were made them for their
satisfaction, they would in all probability only serve to raise their Demands to a
great Extravagance without any better security of their resting quiet, then the
Czar hath lately had, the Soldiery having already got so much head, that it will
scarce be possible to content them without a War.
The Vizir took no notice of King Augustus of Poland, of whome they make
no account; neither do they Esteem they shall make War against that Kingdome,
designing to enter it under a pretence of driving the Muscovites out of it, and con-
tributing to the Establishm* of King Stanislaus on the throne, for whome they
imagine the greatest part of the Poles will declare. Monsr Tarlo x is lately arrived
at Bender with about 4 or 500 Polish horse, and [246] the Suedes pretend that the
Crown General Seniauski hath assured his Suedish Majesty by Letter, that upon
his entry into Poland he will likewise join him.
The Suedes Envoy assure me, that, before the Tartar Han's arrival here, they
had no grounds to hope for a breach between the Port and Muscovy, and that tho'
he, the Palatin of Kiovia, and Monsr Poniatowski did what lay in their power all
endeavours would have been fruitlesse without the Han's coming, and that he had
assured his Master of the truth thereof. It is likewise certain, that when the Musco-
vite Emb r forbore visiting the present Vizir by reason of the preference given to
the other Embassadrs of Crowned Heads, the Vizir gave him an invitation to it
by letting him know he was willing to discourse with him about some businesse,
and the Polish Minister soliciting his Dispatch'at the same time, the Vizir supposing
he had an interest with the Muscovite Emb r sent him word by Sigr Maurocordato
Druggerman of the Port,2 that he should speedily have his Dispatch, if he could
prevail with the Embassr to go to Audience.
The French are now endeavouring to make their best advantage of this Event,
and Monsr Desalleurs soon after the confinem* of the Muscovite Emb r dispatched
1
Count Tarlo, Polish marshal, sent to Bender by King Stanislaus I Leszczynski.
2
Alexander Maurocordato, the chief dragoman of the Porte.
an Expresse to Smyrna with orders to the French Consul to send away a Bark on
purpose with his Letters to France. Whatever they may assume to themselves,
'tis certain that they were able to contribute little or nothing to the present Resolu-
tions of the Port, neither are they in any great Credit there. But in the present
Circumstances of Affairs the Turks are desirous that the War in Christendome [25a]
may continue, and willing that the French may buoy themselves up with hopes
for that end. At the same time the Port will endeavour to take away all umbrage
and jealousy from the Emperour, for which purpose, they design to send an Envoy
to Vienna with a letter from the Sultan to the Empr which the Vizir told me is
already written, with all possible assurances of firm intentions to observe religiously
the Treaty with his Imperial Majesty.
The Tartar Han in his return stopped and seized two Muscovite Couriers whome
he met coming hither.
I cannot yet learn any thing certain concerning the time of the King of Sueden's
motion or the measures taken for his passage: but I am assured the Turks will
follow his advice concerning the Operations of their Forces. _ That Prince hath so
high a Resentment against the Czar of Muscovy and King Augustus but especially
the former, that I am told that all his thoughts are bent upon pursuing his Revenge
against them to the utmost.
The preparations for War are carried on with great heat and Fury. They are
busy at work to equip their whole Fleet which consists of about 25 Men of War,
against the beginning of Summer. The largest ships being unfit for the Black sea
are intended to fetch 3000 Janissaries from Egypt, to Convoy their Alexandria
Trade and to cover and secure the Archipelago from the Malteses and other Corsaires.
Ten or 12 of the smaller Ships with all the Frigats, almost the whole Fleet of Gallies,
about 30 half Gallies and as many Galeots [256] besides long Boats, will be sent
into the Black Sea. None of the Ships can passe the Straight of Crimea without
unlading their Canon and taking it in again beyond the Castle of Kersi. They pre-
tend to put 26,000 Levents well armed on board this Fleet, and have given directions
for building a large Bomb Vessell, their design appearing to be an attempt upon
the Muscovite Fleet at Asoph and Taganrog by way of Diversion, there being no
probability of their attacking either of those places in form this year.
Your Lords? hath herewith a List of the Land Forces ordered to be ready:
but 'tis believed their Army will fall pretty much short of the numbers therein
specified, and the whole scarce be assembled on the Frontiers before the middle or
later end of June, the Asiatick Troops alwaies arriving very late.
I inclose likewise a Translation of the Mufti's Fetfa or sentence for the War,
and shall by the next opportunity transmit Your LordsP a Translation of the Imp1
Command directed to the Pashaws, the Preamble whereof is a kind of Manifesto.
The Sultan will not remove from this City, but the Vizir Azem will go into
the Field, and 'tis said the Horse Tails will be put out after the little Bairam. I
am . . .*
1
[21a] [Enclosure]
List of t h e Forces ordered b y t h e P o r t
Janissaries . . . . . . . . . . 20,000
Gebegis, who t a k e care of t h e ammunition . . . . 10,000
Topgis, Canoniers a n d servants of t h e Artillery . . . 7,000
Top Arabagesis, who make a n d repair t h e Carriages of the Artillery 1,500
Janissaries from E g y p t . . . . . . . . 3,000
Infantry of Rumelia, viz. Albaneses a n d Bosnacs . . . 20,000
Spahis . . . . . . . . . . . 20,000
Gedicluh Spahis . . . . . . . . .• 400
The Pashaws of Rumelia a n d Asia with t h e Zaims a n d Timariots. 36,500
Total . . . . 118,400
Besides t h e A t t e n d a n t s of the Vizir
Azem a n d t h e other Ministers of t h e P o r t
[22a] [Enclosure]
Resolution of the Turks for a war against Muscovy.
Q : Havendo stabilito e confirmato la Pace lTmperatore Mussulmanno (che l'Ogni-
potente Dio conservi e prosperi il suo Regno insino al giorno finale) con il Re
della Nazione Moscovita e il detto Re havendo fatto Schiavi diversi delli Mussul-
manni dimoranti alii Confini vittoriosi di questo Imperio, e anche altre azzioni
colle quali viene violata la Pace, e essendo cio cosa evidente e accertata, per
oviar alii danni fatti alii paesi Mussulmanni si pud per legge contro il detto
Re mandar Milizia e dichiarar la Guerra ?
R : In risponda si dimanda se sia necessario ? La Legge risponde, ' E necessario '.

• 7 January 1710
My Lord
The inclosed is a Translation of the Imperial Command addressed to the respec-
tive Pashaws appointed to go into the Field, which I had the honour to mention
to Your Lordship in my last of the 8 tu past. I am now to acquaint Your Lordsp
that the Port will take a particular care to avoid giving any Offence or umbrage to
the Emp r on this occasion, for which reason they are positively resolved to dispatch
Envoys to Vienna and Venice with Letters from the Sultan and Prime Vizir full
of Assurances that His Highnesse will religiously observe and maintain the Treaties
of Carlovitz, which he intends to perform likewise in respect of Poland, tho' out of
regard to the King of Sueden and for other considerations, which will occur to Your
LordP there will be no notice taken of King Augustus, nor, as far as I can find,
any Declarations made in writing to the Republick or Kingdome of Poland, at
least untill the Vizir arrives with the Army on the Frontiers. It does not appear
that the Port will make any publick Declaration in favour of King Stanislaus, tho'
the Sultan acknowledged him, when he sent an Envoy hither soon after the Con-
clusion of the Treaty of Alt Ranstadt.1 The Vizir lately told the Dutch Embr 2
that they should be willing, that neither King Augustus nor King Stanislaus should
remain in possession of the Crown of Poland, hinting that they were desirous of a
new Election. I conceive this to have been said in such terms, as shewed only the
Vizir's Expectation or hopes grounded on the Relations they have received of the
[296] Dispositions of the Poles. We cannot yet penetrate here that the Port hath any
other Prince in view for that Crown. Your Lords*' will judg better then I am able,
whether any of the Princes Sobieski or any Protestant Prince can pretend to it,
and must be better informed whether a new Election is in agitation among the Poles.
Some surmises are made, as if the Palatin of Kiovia, with3 whome the Tartar Han hath
left his son and the Command of the Budziak Tartars, or the Crown General Seni-
auski, with whome a correspondence is pretended, might come into consideration.
But it is scarce credible in regard of the King of Sueden as well as other Circum-
stances, that any measures will be taken* in behalf of either of them to the prejudice
of King Stanislaus. There is reason to believe, that the assertion of the Palatin
of Kiovia and Monsr Poniatowski having offered or promised the Fortresse of
Caminieck and the Province of Podolia to the rPort, is false, the Suedes Envoy assuring
me, that the chief motive for leaving Mons Poniatowski at the Port was, that he
might see that nothing is transacted to the Detriment or Diminution of King Stanis-
laus and the Kingdome of Poland, and that the said Poniatowski once conceived
jealousies thereof and enter'd into great Expostulations and Explanations with him
about it, so that, if there hath been any such offer in reality, he must have been
very industrious and artificious to conceal it from the Envoys knowledg.
The Vizir Azem4 and other Ministers of the Port at present declare, that in
consideration of [30a] the Treaty of Carlovitz and of the Empr they will not enter
into Poland, nor commit any hostility against that Kingdome, whence it is probably
conjectured, that they do not of themselves design to intermeddle in the Affairs of
Poland via. Facti, but will content themselves to shew the Terrour of their Arms
and practise their other usual arts to incline the Poles to concur with their Desires,
leaving them in appearance to their own conduct. 'Tis very discernible and evident,
that they have an Extraordinary regard for the Empr and have so great an Esteem
and respect for his Arms, that I believe it certain, that they will carefully, and
as much as is possible, avoid giving him any just complaint or Disgust. This and
other circumstances render it probable, that their intentions is to carry their Arms
into Ukraina (into which Province the Tartars will make an Incursion, advice being
already come of their motion in three separate bodies) and make what impression
they can on that side, or else attack Camencki and the other Places the Czar hath
1
Concluded on 1 September 1706. A Turkish envoy, Mehmed Aga, was sent to Charles XII
and 2Stanislaus I in 1707 ; he was received by the Swedish King at Thorn in October 1707.
3
Jacobus Colyer (Coljer), Resident of the States General at Constantinople, 1684-1725.
4
Tartars of Budziak (Bucak), a district between the Danube and Black Sea in Dobrudja.
Baltadji Mehmed Pasha.
on the side of Crimea, towards which their Fleet, which will be strong, will be very
serviceable to them, and they will thereby provide for the safety of Crimea, which
they look on as a matter of the utmost importance to them. In this last case it
may be supposed, that the Drift of the Tartars Incursions is to ruine and wast the
nearest Countries of Muscovy and thereby take away all subsistance from the [306]
Muscovites, if they would come to the relief of their places. These seem to be.
their intentions, unlesse the behaviour and motions of the Muscovites on the Frontiers
of Poland and that side oblige them to alter their Projects and operations or engage
them in their own defence to enter Poland.
What the Palatin of Kiovia with the Poles and Tartars under his Command
may attempt can be only conjectured.
I am not able to give Your LordsP any certain information of the King of Sueden's
Designs. The figure so little honourable or reputable he would make, if he should
accompany the Turkish Army, where he is capable of no Command, except of his
own and other Christian Troops, renders it credible and likely, that he will not
willingly keep them Company. But we are not assured but the Turks may prevail
with him to go along with them, tho' it be more apparent that he may endeavour
to retire thro' Poland with his own few Suedes Officers and Soldiers, and the Poles
and Cossacks, which are about him, if it be practicable, whereof your Lordship will
judg with better reason and knowledg then I am able to do. That Prince hath by
his Envoy here given me several assurances for Her Majesty of his great friendship
and respect for Her, and his resolutions to act nothing contrary to Her interests
and those of the Common cause of the Allies, Expressing his hopes that Her Maj*y
would likewise in this conjuncture afford him [31a] proofs of Her friendship for him.
The French Embr Desalleurs hath given out here, that the Vizir Azem had
recommended to him to counsel his Master not to make Peace with the Allies, and
promised to give some succour to the Hungarians. I have very carefully examined
the Matter, rand if any Credit may be given to Ministers of the Port, who stood by
when Mons Desalleurs discoursed with the Vizir, the story is false and invented
artificiously to serve the French Ends. The Turks as well as others, look upon the
War in Hungary to be as good as ended, and a great many Hungarians as well as
French Officers are lately retired thence into the Turkish Territories, into Poland,
and hither in two great Companies abandoning that Cause as desperate and it's last
gasp, and the Pashaws on the other Frontiers of Hungary now cultivate with more than
ordinary application a good correspondence with the Governours of the Empr's Places.
The Turkish Envoy designed for Vienna is not yet named: but the Vizir's
Kehayah hath diverse times sent me word, that by reason of the many Pretenders
to that Imployment they had not pitched upon any one, tho' they would do it without
delay. 'Tis probable however they may have other reasons for deferring it a little,
the chief whereof may be to gain time 'till they can get some advice how their Rupture
with Muscovy is understood at Vienna, and draw up their Letters and Instructions
accordingly.
[316] A few daies ago an Armenian newly returned from Hungary, whither
he was sent by Monsr Desalleurs the French Embr, not being satisfied with hisr
Reward fell a railing and complaining against him openly, which the Grand Sig
being informed of by his Spies, the fellow was called to the Seraglio and examined
by the Bostangi Bashi, and as I am assured by good hands he there made grievous
complaints against Desalleurs and the heads of the Hungarians, and gave an ample
Account of the wretched condition of the Affairs of the later, which he said were
desperate and given over. This Relation sunk into the minds of the Turks coming
from a fellow, whome they esteemed incapable of any guile or disguise.
I am told the Vizir Azem is endeavouring to excuse himself from going into the
field, which we shall see in a short time the little Bairam approach after which, if he
does make the Campaign, it is probable the horse Tails will be exposed. I am . . .
[27a] [Enclosure]
Tradutt ne del Commando diretto al Passa d'Alleppo e a
tutti gl' altri Passa nella med ma forma.
Al gionger del Eu so segno Imperiale sia noto come per volonta D n a l'anno 1112.
seguita la pace tra l'EuB0 mio Imp rl ° e il Czaro di Moscovia furono le condit nl fatte
sin al giorno d'hoggi dal canto del Eu so suo Imp rl ° osservate, ma il Czaro di Moscovia
ha sempre Continouato ad operar contro la bona Pace, e sin dal d t0 tpo ha contravenuto
alle dte Conditioni principiando a motivi c'hanno fatto apparir la sua cattiva intentione
contro 1 mio Imp rl ° e il Paese Musulmano rendendo chiara la di lui hostilita & odio
contro li Musulmani. Tra le altre sue attioni, ha fabricato una grand ma . Fortezza
d te Camenchi nel confine di Krim vicirro a Or Capi, e altre diverse Fortezze e Palanche
di tpo in tpo pure fabricate sopra'l confine e paese de Musulmani in luochi, & oltre
che vicino ad Asack nel luogo d t0 Taigan, e nel mare pur d'Asack fece una Armata
grand ma trapassd di piu il flume Samarrick che serviva di confine a'i Moscoviti in
Ucraina, paese che s altrova tra li fiumi Achsu e Turla, e che dipende dal principio
del Regno di Polonia, & anco in ?po della pace s'e dato dal canto Imp l e al possesso
de'i Pollachi, e di piu passd anche 1' Achsu a q ta parte ponendo militia in tutte le
Fortezze che si trovano nella Ucraina. Ha preso pur in possesso contro la pace
Rascova 8. hore lontano da Bender, e il di fuori del flume Turla la Fortezza di Sletin
dirimpetto a Jassy dove risiedono li Pafepi di Moldavia come pur la Fortezza di Hotin
in Casachia e tutte quelle parti sin' alia Palancha d ta Mazar. Per il pa to nell'ultimo
combattimento seguito tra' 1 Czar di Moscovia e il Re di Suezia, essendo stato vinto
1' Suezese e il luogo dove si fece il Combattim*0 essendo stato vicino a'i confini del
mio Imp rl ° li Suezesi con fine di salvarsi e ricoverarsi sono capitati al Paese Musulmano
dove li Moscoviti si sono avanzati 48. hore dentro del confine del mio Imp r i 0 e si
sono fermati appo il flume Aksu e presero 300. Suezesi schiavi e li mandorno a
Moscow, e tre mesi doppo ch'il Re di Suezzia arriva a Bender havendo mandato circa
700 persone della sua Militia nel Paese di Moldavia a Carloviza, e mentre qBtl si
fermavano in quella parte, entrarono 6000. Moscoviti contro le Cap nl nella sud ta .
Provincia & assaliti li d*1. Suezzesi parte ammazorono e parte fecero Schiavi. In
q8*' anno pur 1122 sotto li 16 della Luna di Mueharem nella Crimea essendo restati a
Moscoviti li Paesi di Fermia e Zecheghe entrarono da questi alia Crimea & ammaz-
zorno 20 Musulmani dando sacco alia loro robba con portar via 1700 Cavalli. In
somma dal tempo che s' e fatta la pace colli Moscoviti, ogni volta che questi infedeli
hanno havuto l'occasione di portar via Animali dal mio confine, far Schiavi, uccider
la gente, e depredar la loro robba non hanno mancato essendo innumerabili le Vio-
lenze loro, e in particulare il Malvaggio Czaro nor incaminando le sue truppe in
Polonia, e hora girandosi egli in persona con inganni e minaccie ha portato alia sua
ubidienza una parte de'i Principali Polachi, e a piano soggiogandoli, ha preso tutte
quelle Fortezze e Palanche, che sono [276] vicine al mio custodito Dominio, e di
quand' in quando fa Palanche di novo nelli paesi vicini a'i confini ponendovi dentro
munitioni provisioni e militia ; Di piu. ha introdotto militia da canto suo a Camenizza.
In somma dalle di lui attioni si vede chiaramte che la sua intentione e d'avicinarsi alia
Moldavia e al mio Vittorioso confine per aprirsi poi il passaggio al Dominio Musulmano
e con tal fine cattivo strapazza, e mortificia tutti quelli Polachi, che non si soggettano,
e con ogni falsita, e inganni nostra buon' amicizia col mio Imp rl ° confine d' addor-
mentarci & in tanto soggettarsi tutta la Polonia. In conclusione dalle informazioni
havute da quelli che si sono ricoverati nel mio confine, com'anche dalle attioni usate
sin hora dai' d*1. Moscoviti infideli, essendosi compreso ch'il fine della cattiva
intenzione del Czaro di Moscovia e d'occupare prima il Regno di Polonia, e poi dominar
il paese Musulmano e percio fatto venir avanti la mia Imp le Mata tutti Vesiri supremi
consiglieri con tutti li Dottori della Legge & altri e fatta la consulta, resposero tutti
doversi far la guerra contro gl' Infideli Moscoviti per divertire il tradimento che
machinano verso li Musulmani, di piii dimandato Fetva dal Mufti e Capo de'i Musul-
mani sapient™0. Ali Effendi, la virtu del quale sia perpetua, rispose, e diede suo
Fetva con esprimere che fatta la pace tra'l Imperatore de'i Musulmani e il Prifipe
Christiano de Moscoviti, havendo poi qst0 amazzato diversi Musulmani nel confine
Imp le e altri fatto Schiavi viene per consequenza a contravenir alia Pace e far tradi-
mento, onde per divertir le molestie e danni del dt0 dal paese Musulmano esser di
giustitia mandar essercito e far la guerra contro dt0 Moscovito. In virtu dunque del
dt0 nobil Fetva per levar il danno e molestie de'i d*1. Infedeli dalli Musulmani ho
commandato al mio Glorioso supremo Vesir Mehmed Passa, la di cui grandezza Iddio
perpetui, acrid' con tutto 1' Essercito dell' Europa & Asia e con 1' altro mio Vittorioso
Esercito debb' andar per terra contro gl' Infedeli Moscoviti per far la guerra e per Mare
mandar tutta la mia Imp le armata verso la Fortezza d' Asack accio sia tutto pronto
per la ventura Primavera, e si possa far con 1' ajuto dTddio la guerra. Ma il Czaro
sudt0 havendo al piite un rxumeroso Essercito, e di bisogno unir un' Essercito piu
grande e potente di quello s' e unito nella passata guerra di Vienna. Percio voi che
sete mio Vesir della sudta. Provincia per qsta giusta e felice guerra sete destinato con
500 persone di vfa Corte, huomini valorosi, gagliardi e atti alia guerra forniti di buon'
armi e con tutti li Alai Beghi, Zaimi e Timarioti della vra Provincia. Onde arrivato
che sara il pnte mio Imp le & Eu so Commando immediatmte principiarete con tutta
diligenza ad apparechiar le truppe e fornirle di buoni armi e attrezzi militari. E
nella maniera espressa provederete e metterete in ordine tutto 1' necessario [28a]
come si deve e assieme con il sudt0 numero di persone valorose e robuste di vfo
Equippagio e con gl' altri Beghi e tutti li Ziami e Timarioti della vfa Provincia,
Piacendo a dio, farete ogni diligenza di venir avant il giorno di S* Giorgio a con-
giongervi col mio Campo Imp le nella Campagna d'Adrianopoli e nelle strade guarderete
bene di non incommodare gli habitanti de' i paesi sotto pretesto di prender le pro-
visioni per niente e senza spesa, ne farete minima attione contro la nobil Legge, osser-
vando bene di venir a tempo al luogo destinato senza veruna dilatione. Siche e
emanato il presente mio Imple Commandam*0 con il quale Commando &a.
N.B. II Boristhene 6 Dnieper viene chiamato da Turchi Achsu,1 II Niester Turla,
sulquale e situata la Fortezza di Bender 6 Tekin.

22 January 1710/11
My Lord
I had the honour on the 7th instant to acquaint Your Lordship of the Dispositions
of the Port with relation to the Emperour and the affairs of Poland. The French,
Poles and Suedes have with their utmost power traversed the nomination and dis-
patch of the Envoy designed for Vienna, on which occasion I thought it my duty to
use the best arguments I was able with the Ministers of the Port, not only to confirm
them in their intentions of sending a Minister to the Imp1 Court, but to prevail with
them to lose no more time. They have at length laid aside the considerations, for
which they had deferred it for some time, and the Sultan hath appointed one Seifullah
Aga to carry his Letter to the Emperour. The Ministers have desired that this may
be kept secret for the present, and the Aga is to depart privately in eight daies by
post to Belgrade, and thence by post likewise to Vienna, as soon as the 1Imperialists are
ready to receive and conduct him thither, to prepare which the Imp Resident now
dispatches an Expresse to Peterwaradin. The Port will not only give the Empr
such assurances of their punctual observance of their Treaty with him, as they judg
sufficient to take away all umbrages, but the Ministers still declare that they will
neither enter Poland nor commit any hostilities against that Kingdome. Thus much
is certain, that they have not yielded to the earnest instances of the Suedes and
Poles for a Body of Turks and Tartars to attend that King thro' Poland, but have
absolutely declined it and put them off with telling them, that they could promise
nothing of that kind, but would consider what would be most convenient when the
Vizir should be with their Army on the Frontiers, which answer is taken as a refusal.
The French, as well as the Suedes and Poles, do not cease to boast of their
Correspondences in Poland, and continually produce Letters either true or forged from
many Men of Credit and interest in that Country, and very much amplify the Number
of mthe Suedes Forces in Pomerania, assuring the Post that by spring they will have
3O men there ready to march into Poland.
[376] Monsr Desalleurs hath offered the Vizir Azem to wait upon him into the
Field, which he assented to, and I presume will not refuse his Company, if the French
Court gives him orders to follow the Camp. I suppose the Empr will likewise direct
his Resident to attend the Vizir, who being an easy Man might be misled by the other
party, if there were nobody on the Emperour's part to watch and oppose their
suggestions.
The Gr. Signor hath almost wholly abandoned the Conduct of his affairs to the
1
The Aksu was the Bug, not the Dnieper.
Great Divan, which is assembled from time to time, and consists of the Vizirs of the
Bench and the Heads of the Law and Soldiery, among which the French, Suedes and
Poles are very active and free of their Presents, the Vizir Azem not assuming the
authority, which is due to his Post. It would be convenient they should be more
cultivated on the other side then they are, there being no means of approaching and
gaining those people without Presents.
The Palatine of Kiovia hath taken a number of the Budziak Tartars into pay,
which seems not to please the Turks.
The Tartars have been about twenty daies in motion for their intended incursion
into Ucraina and Muscovy, in two Bodies, the greater whereof is commanded by the
Han in person, and the lesse by Calgah Sultan, his Brother and first Minister.
The Turkish Army will not be so numerous as they pretend. Some among
them, that are well informed of their measures and dispositions, compute they may
have about 8om fighting men : but there are good grounds to believe they will not
carry so many to the Frontiers ; where they will scarce arrive before the middle of
June or later. I am . . .

12 February 1710/11
My Lord
On receipt of Your Lordship's Letter of the I s t December past I waited on the
Vizir Azem and acquainted him with Her Majesty's Design of sending an Envoy to the
King of Sueden at Bender, He received the notification very kindly and seemed to be
pleased with Her Majesty's Resolution, telling me he would inform His Master thereof,
and that both Her Majesty and that Prince being friends of His Highnesse, the Envoy
should be civilly received and might passe freely and safely to Bender, for which
purpose I shall procure an Order to the Pashaw of Belgrade, supposing that Mr.
Jeffreys x will take his way by that place, tho' I have no advice from him of his inten-
tions in that respect.
I acquainted your Lordship, that in the first great Divan, held in presence of the
Gr. Sig r and the Tartar Han, it was determined to send a Messenger to the Czar
of Muscovy to declare to him the intentions of the Port. Accordingly an Aga,
who was lately the Vizir's Capigilar Kehayasi, parted hence with the Han for that
purpose, but the Han afterwards changed that Design, and never dispatched him;
wherefore he is newly returned hither.
Major Gen. Meyerfeldt hath been here from,the King of Sueden. After about
ten daies stay, in which time he saw the Vizir Azem and Reis Effendi twice, he
returned the 3 d instant to Bender, [396] whence he is shortly to go back to Vienna,
and so forward to Pomerania and Sueden. As he is very much in his Master's favour
and confidence, he assured me he had used his best endeavours to remove all Excep-
1
Captain James Jefferyes, British Envoy to Charles XII at Bender. See ' British Diplomatic
Instructions 1689-1789 ', Vol. i, Sweden, pp. 39-40. His Despatches are published by Carlson,
in Historiska Handlingar, 1896.
tions and Resentments, that might any way alter the friendship and good Cor-
respondence between that Prince and the Allies, and that he found his Majesty in the
best dispositions, that could be desired, and wholly resolved to act nothing to their
prejudice, or the hindrance of the common cause against France and Spain. As he
desired that Her Maj*y might be informed of what he declared to me on his Master's
part, I shall give Your Lordship the substance of his discourse as well as I can remem-
ber it. He said his Master was very well satisfied with the assurances and Expres-
sions of friendship which the Empr gave his Majesty by his means at his passage by1
Vienna, and was willing to take no notice of the partiality, which some of the Imp
Ministers had shewn too openly for his Enemies, attributing it to their own genius
and inclination, and not imputing it to the disposition of His Imp1 Majesty. He1
excused that King's Refusal of the Neutrality of the Provinces in the Empire
belonging to the Princes engaged in the war of the North, saying, that, if it had
extended no further, his Majesty would have concurred thereto, but could not assent
to the comprehension of Poland and Jutland. That he was sorry he could not
comply with the desires of the Allies by giving them part of his Forces in Pomerania,
whereof he had an [40a] indispensable occasion both for his own defence and for
offending his Enemies in a war, which he believed all the world would acknowledg to be
just on his side. That King Augustus having resumed the Crown of Poland, contrary
to the honour of a solemn Treaty and his own act of Renunciation and Abdication, and
led part of his Forces out of Saxony into that Kingdome, and being at liberty to draw
thither such other Troops as he hath or can raise, He could not think that the Allies
would judg it reasonable, that He should part with his Forces in Pomerania, w1*
are the only Troops he hath in a readinesse and posture to employ against his Enemies,
and be debarred the same power and liberty of drawing them into Poland, wch King
Augustus hath taken without any opposition. That the King of Denmark had
infringed the Act of Neutrality, tho' he had consented to it, by drawing some of his
Troops out of the Dutchy of Holstein into the Island of Zeland to serve against
Sueden. That he esteemed the Allies might have rendered him better Offices, then
they have done since they had notice of the new League between Muscovy, Denmark
and King Augustus ; but that he hoped they would appear more in his favour, and
give him Effectual marks of their friendship hence forward, and that having con-
sidered the reasons and motives they had for the Act of Neutrality ; He did not resent
ill what they had hitherto done in that respect, but hoped He should have no grounds
to complain of their beheavour towards him hereafter.
In particular Monsr Meyerfeldt assured me [406] with all seeming sincerity, that
his Suedish Majesty professeth the greatest friendship for the Queen, and is very
sensible of the tender regard, which Her Maj1^ hath expressed for his Person and
interests, and takes very kindly Her Majesty's Resolution to send an Envoy to him,
which he knew before Monsr Meyerfeldt left Bender, and the Suedes Ministers gave it
out here above three weeks before your Lord?'8 Letter came to my hands. That if
his Affairs would permit it, He would lend the Queen 15,000 men or a greater number
of his Troops to serve against France, and even take upon him the Mediation of a
1
The Act of Neutrality, concluded at the Hague on 31 March 1710 between Great Britain,
the States General, the Emperor, Prussia and Hanover.
Peace, if it were acceptable to Her Majesty ; but that for the present being attacked
by so many Enemies at once, He had necessary occasion for all his Troops. That
he hoped Her Majesty and the States General of the United Provinces would give him
effectual Proofs of their friendship in this juncture, when his Affairs most required it
and it would be most acceptable to him, and lay an obligation upon him, whch her
should not fail to acknowledg, when he should be in a condition to do it. Mons
Meyerfeldt laid open his Master's want of mony, and did not disguise how burdensome
and hurtfull the war with Denmark is to Sueden, giving clearly to understand, that
the greatest obligation the Queen and States General could lay upon his Suedish
Majesty, would be to procure him a Peace, with Denmark, to which he affirmed the
Danes are much inclined, as well as the King of Sueden, who he said entertained no
animosity against the King [41a] of Denmark, imputing the injury he hath received
much more to the evil Counsels, that have been given to his Danish Majesty, than
to his own Dispositions and ill will towards him.
Monsr Meyerfeldt further said, that the world believed, that the King of Sueden
was a Prince, that delighted in war ; but he assured me, that His Majesty was very
weary of it, and sensible of the ill condition of his Countries, and would readily
embrace a Peace with Muscovy, provided it could be obtained on just and honorable
terms : but he made no difficulty to own, that his Majesty expected not only the
Restitution of all, that hath been taken from him, making special mention of Peters-
burg, but a reasonable indemnity and amends for the Expences of the war.
For the Affairs of Poland, it is evident the King of Sueden's thoughts are at
present bent upon asserting that Crown to King Stanislaus, which appeared suffi-
ciently1 by Monsr Meyerfeldt's discourse, and is as manifest by the inclosed Declar-
ation, which he hath sent with the Palatin of Kiovia, who is enter'd into that King-
dome with a Body of Poles, Cossacks and Budziak Tartars, which last, tho' said to
be taken into the King of Sueden's pay contrary to the intentions and desires of the
Port, are under the Command of the Tartar Han's son.
As far as I can perceive neither the King of Sueden nor his Ministers are yet
inclined to the French interest, but may be gained, if Her Majesty and Her Allies
think fit to condescend in some measure to that Prince's desires, who as I have been
often assured by several [persons] [41J] that have been long near his Person and
observed his genius, hath neither a good opinion of nor is well affected to the French
for reasonsr that will occur to Your Lord?. The Palatine of Kiovia, Monsr Tarlo
and Mons Poniatowski have conversed here with almost none but the French, w011
the King of Sueden hath connived at, permitting them to follow their own inclin-
ations, tho' it be said to be displeasing to him. Their behaviour hath given some
scandal tor the Imperialists ; but I think without any just reason ; for the Palatine
and Mons Tarlo being men of high rank and very haughty, none have.accommodatedr
themselves to their humour, or sought their acquaintance but the French Embass
Desalleurs who by means of Monsr Poniatowski found a way to see and converse with
them without Ceremony. There hath been some little misunderstanding between
the Suedes Envoy 2 and the Imp1 Resident occasioned by the misconduct of them
1
See below. The Polish version has been published in Tchtenija, iii (1847), 36-38.
2
Martin Neugebauer.
both, and the indiscreet discourses of the later and his Domesticks. When the
Envoy arrived here, being ignorant in matter of Ceremonial, he very imprudently
gave the Resident the first visit, which encouraged the later to pretend precedence
before him in the first audiences of new Prime Vizir's, tho' the Resident denies to
have given such orders and laies the blame on his Druggerman.
It now appears very plainly, that the King of Sueden's Design is to join his
Pomeranian Forces in Poland. In my last I acquainted Your Lord? that the Port
had put off his demand of a Body of Turks to attend him thro' Poland, remitting the
consideration of thatchmatter 'till the Vizir's [42a] arrival with the Ottoman Army
on the Frontiers, wh was taken as a civil Refusal. The Vizir and other Ministers
declare, and it really appears to be their present intention not to enter Poland, unlesse
they be forced to it by the motions of their Enemies, being loth to give any umbrage
to the Emperour. For that end Seifullah Aga was dispatched hence towards Vienna
on the 3d instant with a Letter written by the Vizir Azemr>sby especial Command of the
Sultan to Prince Eugene of Savoy President of the Emp Council of War, with such
assurances of his Highnesses fixed
r
Resolution to maintain his friendship and good
Correspondence with the Emp , as are judged sufficient to remove all jealousy on that
side.1 I formerly acquainted your LordP that the intentions rof the Port were to send
an Envoy with a Letter from the Sultan himself to the Emp to the same Effect and
accordingly the Letter was written and lay ready, and two persons were named
successively for that Embassy; but that Design was changed in a great Divan
upon the opposition of several of the Counsellors, and the Dislike of the Ogiacks and
heads of the Soldiery, with whome the French and Poles hadr sbeen tampering, and
represented that such a step would be contrary to the Gr. Sig ' Dignity and honour,
without Precedent orr Example even among Christian Princes, and look like a sub-
mission to the Emp and begging his leave to make war "against Muscovy. 'Tis
likewise in consideration of the King of Sueden, whome the Port would not dis-
oblige, and to avoid prejuducing his and King Stanislaus interests in Poland, that the
Vizir hath but lightly touched upon the point of committing no Hostilities against
Poland; but I am told Seifullah [426] Aga hath orders to explain the intentions of
the Port in that particular by word of mouth.
The Horse Tails were exposed with the usual Ceremonies on the 8th current,
and the 28th of this present moon is the day appointed for the Vizir's putting himself
under his Tents at Daud Pasha, the accustomed place of the first assembling the
Troops about an hour out of the City, whence 'tis believed he will march in about sixty
daies hence towards Fourty Churches,2 a Town situate in afineplain at about 40 hours
distance hence towards the Danube, and therefore chosen as a proper place for the
Rendezvous of the Army, how long he will stay there cannot be exactly told; but
according to the best calculations, that can be made, the army will not be complete
and arrive upon the Frontiers before the later end of June or beginning of July, tho'
they have dispatched new Commands to all the Pashas designed for the war to hasten
their march.
1
About his stay in Vienna, see Haus- Hof- und Staatsarchiv, Staats- und Extraord. Protocoll,
Anno2 1711, No. 1 : 2 Mai 1711.
Kirk-Kilise.
AH Pasha of Erzerum is made Seraskier of the Fleet and the Troops to be im-
barked on it, designed for the Palus Maeotis and is to passe thither directly from
Trebisond with the Forces levied in those parts.
I believe it certain that the Sultan does not go into the field ; but he hath under-
hand prepared all things requisite for his motion with the Court, and even named the
women, that are to accompany him ; so that 'tis conjectured with some probability,
that he may remove either to Adrianople, or some other place nearer the Danube,
in which case he will scarce return to Constantinople during this war, which in all
likelyhood [43a] will not be of long continuance.
On this occasion I think myself obliged to represent to Your LordP my own
Circumstances, to the end that, if it shall please Her Majesty to give me any Com-
mands hereafter relating to the Affairs between the Port and the Muscovites and
Poles, some Provision may be made to enable me to discharge my Duty and the
service, that may be enjoyned me. I am not in condition or Equipage to remove
from my usual Residence, and the Levant Company hath both in the time of the Lord
Pagett my Predecessor,1 and in mine, excepted against and disallowed the Expences
of any Journy, which should be undertaken for other then their Occasions, and that
when there should be an absolute and indispensable necessity thereof for their par-
ticular service, reserving to themselves the power of judging when the necessity is so
indispensable, and did further, when the Court was at Adrianople, disapprove the
leaving a Druggerman there, and object against the Extraordinary Expences assigned
him for his Entertainment, for which reason I cannot send a Druggerman to attend
the Vizir in the Campaign. This disadvantage I lye under of making no Expences,
except for the Company's concerns, does likewise disable me in a great measure from
acting so effectually, as I might do, in all other Affairs, it being impossible to make
interest or carry on any businesse among the Turks without charges and Presents.
One Hoe Captain of the sea Nymph Gaily a merchant ship with a Letter of
Marcque lately made prize of a French Bark near Candia and carried her to Suda.
On board the said Bark were three Franciscan Friars said [436] to be Portugueses
with 6 chests of mony and Ingots of gold calculated in their Accompts to be in value
26,668 pieces of J- which were collected in Portugal for the Franciscan convent at
Jerusalem, whither they were designed. They had passeports from the King of
Portugal and My Lord Galway ; copies whereof are inclosed,2 to go from Lisbon on
board a Genuese ship called the S ta Rosa, Captn Viviano commander for Genua, but
nothing to protect them on board a French Vessel. Captain Hoe presented them
5 Chests of Cloths, 2 silver candelsticks and a silver Censer designed for the Holy
Sepulcher, and near 500 pieces of •§ for their charges, but retained the 6 Chests of
mony marked with the Jerusalem Crosse, which I conceive by Her Majesties Treaties
with Portugal are good and Lawfull Prize. But the said mony being deposited in the
hands of Mr. Bradley, Consul in Candia, I thought it convenient to give Your Lord? an
account thereof to the end that, if it be Her Majestie's pleasure to give any Directions
in the Matter, it may be done without losse of time.
The Turky Convoy arrived the 11 th past at Suda, where the Commandore left
1
Lord Paget, British ambassador at Constantinople 1697-1701.
2
These enclosures are missing.
the Woolwich man of war with the Scanderoone ships, and proceeded with the other
5 ships of war and merchant ships for Smyrna, where they arrived the 19. On the
26th following the Commandore sailed with the men of war from Smyrna Castle on
his return to Suda whence he is to carry the Scanderoone and Alexandria ships to their
designed Ports. The French have no men of war in these Seas except the Eclatant at
Smyrna [44a] bound hither with a rich Lading and Monsr Desalleurs Equipage, but
there are many French Imbarcations lading corn and oil in the Archipelago for that
King's service. The Commadore's orders from the Admiralty strictly enjoining
him to return to Suda and conduct the Scanderoon ships with all his force, and
leaving nothing to his discretion, he hath given the French no disturbance, and I
hear only of about ten of the Enemies ships and Barks, that have been lately taken
by Our Merchant Ships, that come from Leghorne likewise to load corn. I am . . .
[32a] [Enclosure]
Nos Carolus Dei gratia Suecorum, Gothorum Vandalorumque Rex, Magnus Prin-
ceps Finlandae, Dux Scaniae, Esthonie, Livoniae, Careliae, Bremae, Verdae, Stettini,
Pomeraniae, Cassubiae & Vandaliae, Princeps Rugiae, Dominus Ingriae & Vismoriae,
nee non Comes Palatinus Rheni, Bavariae, Juliaci, Cliviae & Montium Dux, etc. etc.
Omnibus & singulis praesentes hasce visuris Salutem & Benevolentiam nostram
Regiam. Supervacaneum ducimus esse multis hie commemorare, quemadmodum Rex
AUGUSTUS Elector Saxoniae potitus in Polonia rerum, primordia dominationis suae
sumpserit a violatione Legum Patriae, atque ab oppressione libertatis civium, spreta
religione pactorum conventorum, in quae sponte sua. consenserat, & ad quae sancte
servanda iurejurando sese obstrinxerat: IJtque gens inclita Polonorum animadver-
tens immane periculum, quod toti Reipublicae imminebat, quodque vitae pariter ac
fortunis civium, sparsis undique discordiarum seminibus, incendiis, caedibus & rapinis,
exhaustorum ultimum periculum minitabatur, tandem ceperit de rationibus expedi-
undae salutis suae; deque vindicanda. in pristinam libertatem, iura ac immunitates
suas, Patria serio cogitare. Fluctuasse primum quidem multorum de Patria bene
meritorum virorum animos constat, partim blanditiis ac pollicitationibus, partim
etiam minis infidi Principis inductor, sed vicisse demum amorem Patriae, at apud
saniorem Reipublicae partem ingenuum priscae libertatis desiderium, excusso ac
penitus reiecto servitutis iugo, quod Rex Augustus cervicibus ipsius, contra ius et fas,
imposuerat: atque sublato in Regiam Dignitatem liberis civium votis et sufragijs,
solemnibusque Regiae inaugurationis ceremonijs STANISLAO ejus nominis primo,
ad regnandum a natura facto Principe, ob excelsas, quibus ornatus est, virtutes,
quique ab ipsa nascendi sorte tenerrimum Patriae suae amorem traxit, atque animo
^suo alte infixum tenet. Sufficit pro re nata. tantum indicasse, peracta esse ac firmata
haec omnia Tractatu Varsaviensi, Regemque Augustum in eodem, ratihibita pace etc.
. etc. Ranstadiensi, libere consensisse, atque omni Juri suo, quocumque demum
nomine veniret, in Regnum Poloniae atque Ducatum magnum Lithuaniae, in per-
petuum sancte solemniterque renunciasse, misso ad Ordines Republicae authentico
Diplomate, quo eosdem, Fide ipsi data exsolutos, ad obedientiam novo Regi praestan-
<lam, remiserit. Post eiusmodi solemnia pactorum publicorum, fideiussionibus etiam
D
maximorum Principum confirmatorum, quis dubitaret non satis prospectum cau-
tumque esse Reipublicae saluti, securitati Patriae, ac libertati denique omnium et
singulorum civium, atque adeo finem iam turn adesse malorum, quae miseram
Poloniam per tot annos varijis fortunae casibus agitatam, afflixerant. Sed eue! Idem
Rex Augustus tot passibus hactenus defunctus ad Fidem Orbi Christiano faciendam
de pacato suo ingenio, deque sincera. intentione non turbandae amplius tranquillitatis,
aut trahendae in casum Reipublicae, e repente ad opprimendam Poloniam, atque
novum in ea Belli incendium excitandum cum armata manu prorumpit; Regium
Diadema depositum et abiuratum paulo ante sibi imponit. Moscum infensissimum
hostem nominis Polonici, in societatem facinoris assumit, ac innumerabilem pro-
pemodum Turbam ignoti, nominis hostium in sinum Reipublicae invehit, eique hanc
in praedam dat, quo facilius ac securius dominatum in earn exanguem et truncatam
nobilioribus suis partibus, demum exerceat. Czarus enim istMc rerum ac temporum
opportunitate callide utens, in premium submissi auxilij opimas Regiones ab Augusto
Rege stipulatas, homagijsque [326] circumfirmatas sibi vendicat in perpetuam
possessionem, loca contermina Imperio suo occupat, atque castellis ac propugnaculis,
praesidijsque bellicis munit, ut totam Rempublicam facilius coerceat, sibique
tributariam reddat, Conspecti ora sunt haec Czari tentamina, quam ut a quoquam in
tanta luce rerum ignorari, graviora et Reipublicae pestilentiora, quam ut corvatum
quemque civem non vehementer commovere atque percellere possint. Amoliri
quidem a se hanc, sive culpam, sive suspicionem, eamque in NOS transferre nullis
non artibus conatur coniuratus hostis, nunc criminando moram, quam in terris
Imperij Ottomannici aliquandiu fecimus, nunc disseminando supposititias nostro
nomine, si credere fas est, ad ipsum Sultanum perscriptas litteras de dicridenda
atque insuper eidem obnoxia reddenda imposterum universa Polonia : Utique sane
falsis criminationibus invidiam conflando, ut impiae machinationes suae credulitate
vulgi tegantur : Nostrae vero actiones et consilia in suspicionem revocentur. Verum
enim vero dedignamur eiusmodi mendacijs refellendis vel tantillum operae heic impen-
dere : qui enim aequitatem moderationemque animi Nostri norunt, quique res a
Nobis pro illibata libertate et salute Polonorum hactenus gestas ad aequam judicij
lancem expenderint, detecto protinus fallaciarum harum vero architecto, haud facile
sibi imponi siverint. Quae cum ita sint, non possumus non aegre ferre tristem hanc
conditionem notissimae gentis, quam tanto labore ac periculis, tantoque sangvinis
Suedici impendio antea servavimus gementem sub impotenti Dominatione Regis
Augusti. Eundem erga earn animum adhuc conservamus, nulli neque labori neque
sumptui parcituri, antequam ipsam, multitudine hostium, liberatam, in plenam liber-
tatem asserverimus, ac legitimo Regi suo STANISLAO primo pacatam reliquerimus^
In eum finem consilia nostra communicavimus cum Imperatore Ottomannico, et
magno Tartarorum Chamo, qui ambo pari nobiscum affectu in Rempublicam Polonam,
pariter etiam cupientes pristinum libertatis Statum eidem assertum et restitutum,
socia nobiscum arma conjungent ad frangendas et retundendas eorum vires, qui
libertatem Polonam oppressam tenent. Ad hoc opus, propitio, quod speramus,
Numine inchoandum, praemittimus nunc Illustrissimum Palatinum Kioviensem,
supremum exercituum Regni Poloniae Ducem cum egregia. militum, manu, mox ipsi
cum numerosioribus exercitibus, si opus fuerit, eundem secuturi, nihil dubitantes,
quin omnes et singuli, quibus salus Patriae, Parentum cura, coniugumque ac liberorum
amor, curae cordique sunt, quique dignum Mavortia gente animum assuetudine
infimae servitutis nondum exuerunt, ac denique qui finem malorum, quae Patriam
exercent, videre cupiunt, execto hoc salutis recuperandae signo unitis animis ac
viribus, quantocius sese iungant cohortibus, quae sub auspicijs Ill ml Palatini Kioviensis,
exercituum Regni Poloniae Ducis, militant, proque libertate non minus, quam aris et
focis suis fortiter dimicent, veniam impetraturi omnium, quae antea secus egissent.
Brevi tempore et modico labore oportet defungi ad hoc opus, DEO justam causam
secundante, feliciter conficiendum. [33a] Si omnes ad eundem salutarem scopum
obtinendum unanimiter conspirent. Quod si autem quemquam praesens Conditio
parum moveat, aut perversus in Patriam animus, commodique privati spes in adversis
partibus detineat, suae vel perfidiae vel pertinaciae is demum acceptum ferat, si quid
inclementius in ipsum consulatur. In quorum maiorem fidem hasce manu nostra
subscriptas, sigillo nostro Regio muniri jussimus. Dabantur ad Urbem Benderam
die 28 Januarij 1711.

6 April 1711
My Lord
I am now on recovery from a violent feavour contracted by a cold, which hath
left me so weak, that I am not able to write much, and therefore hope Your LordsP'8
goodnesse will excuse me, and allow me time 'till the next conveyance to give you
a fuller account of what hath passed, and of the further dispositions of the Port.
The Vizir decamped with the Forces assembled at Daud Pashaw the 26 past,
pursuant to a Hattesheriffe or Order under the Gr. Sigr's hand. This sudden depar-
ture, which happened 15 or 20 daies sooner then the Vizir expected, was chiefly
occasioned by the Sultan's uneasinesse at the great disorders, insolences and quarrells
of the Soldiers, which were indeed extraordinary, they being under no obedience,
discipline or Order, and neither the Governm* nor their own Officers daring to punish
them, insomuch that there was no other remedy found but to dispatch them away.
The Vizir makes ten or eleven small Marches to Adrianople, where it is not precisely
known how long he will remain, but judged he will not move thence in lesse then
fourty daies, if he will wait the junction of the other Troops. I have good advice, that
the Bosnacs and Albaneses, who are esteemed the bravest and best men the Turks
have, will not amount to 8000 men. They are now preparing themselves for their
March and cannot arrive at Adrianople in lesse then 40 to 50 daies. Most of
the Forces of Anatolia will be later, tho' some scattered Men and Troops from the
nearest parts of that Country begin already to passe here.
The Fleet designed for the Black Sea hath been much [456] hastened, and is
in a readinesse, except two new ships, which will be finished in a few daies. It will
consist of about 25 ships, whereof 14 will carry 50 to 66 Guns, the rest being Frigats
of different rates, and some of them very small mounted with but 8, 10 or 12 Guns.
Ten of these ships are already sailed to Sinop to take in Materials for building Bridges
for the service of the Army. The Gallies will be 20 in number, and the Galeots or
half Gallies 30, besides smaller Vessells of the same kind called by the Turks Fregattes
and Cangiabashes * w ch with the Volicks and Tenders will amount in all to upwards
of 400. Some of the smallest Frigats, and a part of the Gallies and half Gallies
are ordered to Ozou 2 the Castle situate upon the common mouth of the Rivers Bog 3
and Boristhenes.4 The rest being designed for the Palus Maotis will coast along
the Asia Shore to Sinop, where they will wait a fair wind and weather to crosse over
to the Streight of Crimea, the passage there being only of 100 Leagues. The Gallies
and other light Vessels are removed 3 or 4 leagues up the Bosphorus to deliver the
people from the insolence of the Levents, the ships remaining yet near the city.
The ships will probably sail first, if the wind turn in a short time, and 'tis believed
they may all enter the Black Sea towards the end of this month or the beginning
of the next; There are likewise 30 to 40 Saicks lying in the Canal laden with Ammuni-
tion and Provisions for the Army ready to sail with the first wind.
There are 4 Gallies and ten stout Ships designed for this summer's service in
the Archipelago and Mediterranean. Five of the Ships are already abroad, some
of them [46a] being gone to Alexandria to transport the Janissaries from Egypt.
The other five and the Gallies lie here almost in a readinesse to depart.
Designing my self the honour to write your Lordship more at length by the next
conveyance, I shall only beg leave to acquaint you at present, that I had several
discourses with the Vizir and his Kehayah before their departure hence, and as
far as I could judg, left them in very good dispositions to forbear intermeddling
in the Affairs of Poland, so that I have some reason to hope, that their behaviour
in that respect will be so moderate as to give no occasion to Her Majesty's Allies to
be offended or intangle themselves in those Affairs, whereby I hope the breaking
out of the War in these parts will be prevented from interfering much with the
interests of the Allies. I am . . .

29 May 1711
My Lord
I paid my respects last to Your LordsP under the 6 th past.
The French in concert with Prince Ragoczy,5 some time before the rupture of
the Port with Muscovy, endeavoured to set on foot a Negotiation of Peace between
the Czar and the King of Sueden, w ch was the occasion of Monsr Desalleurs seeing
the later at Bender. Tho' his overtures found little ingression at that time with
his Suedish Majesty, upon whome he could gain no further then an expression,
which he uttered with some Resentment against the Turks ; as if he would make
peace with the Czar, in case they did not perform their promises to him, yet Monsr
Desalleurs, after his arrival here, finding little appearance of the Port declaring against
1
2
Kandjabash, a small type of man-of-war.
s
5
Ozu or Ozi. Bug. * Dnieper.
Francis Rakoczy, the leader of Hungarian insurgents.
Muscovy or granting the Forces promised to conduct the King of Sueden thro'
Poland, pursued his Project, and after a very mean Courtship to the Muscovite
Ambr at length had a conference or two with him in a third place, and entred
into Commerce and Negotiation with him, pretending that his Suedish Majesty had
shewn some disposition to a peace, when he saw him at Bender, and had given
Directions to Monsr Poniatowski to enter into Treaty by his means. Tho' I have
reason to be assured that
r
the King of Sueden had no participation of what passed,
'tis certain that Mons Desalleurs made some small advance with the Muscovite
Ambr who wrote several times 1to the Czar's Ministers upon that subject, and the
former made use of one Thalaba a [1036] Hungarian, who had been Prince Ragoczy's
Agent at the Court of Moscow, to carry on the work in Poland and Muscovy. The
rupture between the Port and the Czar intervening, Monsr Desalleurs hopes were
entirely blasted. That intrigue failing, the French have formed another project
of a General Peace between these warring Powers, and Monsr Desalleurs lately com-
municated the first Propositions to the King of Sueden, which as I am informed
will be imparted by that Prince's Order to Her Majestyr and the States General
with his Answer. It may be well presumed, that Mons Desalleurs made a false
confidence of the Overtures, which he pretended to have received from the Czar
and King Augustus ; for he could not but know that the King of Sueden is firmly
resolved not to abandon King Stanislaus, and therefore in all appearance his Design
was to blind the Suedes and keep some measures with them, while he was carrying
on a Negotiation in which King Augustus was the first Spring and had the greatest
advantage in view, supposing that, if it should succeed at the Port, the King of
Sueden would be forced to submit to it.
Some time ago arrived here one Monsr Perrin2 a French man, who is said
to have been a Colonel in the Czar's service, but I know not whether he now serves
him or King Augustus. He at first lodged in an Eating House at Galata and passed
for a Dantzig Merchant, but being discovered by Spies to be no Pole, and finding
himself to be already suspected and observed, he removed his quarters to the French
Ambr's House. This person, as I am informed, was several times with King Augustus
and received [104a] Instructions from him, and was dispatched hither by General
Fleming and Monsr Busenval the French Envoy, and brought many Pacquets with him,
which were sewed in the fold of his cap, some whereof delivered to Monsr rBonkowski
the Polish Minister, from whose hands I received a Letter from Mons Rybinski,
copy rwhereof is inclosed,3 and others are said to have been conveyed to the Muscovite
Emb in the Seven Towers, which may easily be done, the Ambr maintaining a
constant correspondence with several of his Pensioners and friends here, and particu-
larly with the Romish Bishop, who being a Ragusean and speaking the Slavonian
Language, and having put his Nephew into the Emb r ' s service, was entred very far
into his friendship and confidence before his confinement, and is now very much in
the interests of Muscovy, and also of France, by reason of a Pension wchr he receives
from that Crown. I must beg leave to observe to Your LordsP that Mons Rybinski's
1
Talaba, an Hungarian envoy who arrived at Bender at the beginning of December 1710-
s
His Instructions and Despatches are preserved in Dresden, Sachsisches Hauptstaatsarchiv,
JOC
^ - 3552- 8
Not found.
letter was not delivered to me 'till Bonkowski saw that the French Emb r ' s Offices
for the Admission of Rybinski were coldly received. I am very certainly informed,
that Monsr Desalleurs hath dispatched several Messengers into Poland with the
Vizir Azem's participation, and that he hath had and still keeps several Irons in
the fire at the Port, negotiating the acknowledgm* of King Augustus and main-
tenance of Peace with him either with or without the comprehension of the Czar,
and leaving no stone unturned to prevail w th the Turks to give some encouragem4
or succour to the Hungarian Malecontents. For this purpose Messrs [1046] Fornetti
and le Perriere his first and 3 d Druggermen followed the Vizir to Adrianople, and
upon the news of the Emperour's death Monsr Broue the French Cancelliere and
Druggerman was also dispatched thither. I do not believe the Turks will at all
intermeddle in the Affairs of the Hungarians, at least during the war with the Mus-
covites, which is likely to last longer then the Rebellion in Hungary, altho' the
Accommodation now on foot should not be brought to a good conclusion.
The French have hitherto made but little advance in their other undertaking,
what successe they may in time have therein, if they carry it on, is more uncertain,
and will depend on the events of the War. 'Tis very evident that the Turks enter
into it with great diffidence, and have been somewhat discouraged by the disappoint-
ment of the hopes they had conceived of the good successe of the Tartar Han's
Incursion.
The Overtures of Peace which have been made them and the backwardnesse
and inaction of the Muscovites seem to have given them a little better heart of
late. Neverthelesse the Vizir and other Commanders of the Army, as well as the
Heads of the Janissaries themselves, enter the field with a very unwilling mind,
besides that the Sultan himself is Esteemed no favourer of the War, and the best
part of the people openly Expresse their fears and dislike to it. On the other side,
the Tartar Han, the Mufti and Chief men of the Law abet it, looking upon it to
be the interest of the Empire and almost indispensably necessary to prosecute it,
while they enjoy the concurrence of the King [105a] of Sueden's arms, added to
the disunion of the Poles, and the fairnesse of the conjuncture in other respects.
They would be extreamly perplexed at a disappointm* in their Expectation of the
Suedes Forces out of Pomerania, the delay of whose March makes them uneasy,
and hath given the Vizir occasion of late to shew the Suedes Ministers an ill counten-
ance ; and make them some reproaches. But nothing would so much distresse
these people, as the Muscovites coming down with good strength into the Black Sea.
Unlesse the face of Affairs change considerably, it does not appear possible to
bring the Port to a speedy reconciliation with the Czar. But if the successe of the
War prove extraordinary on either Side, these people will soon incline to Peace,
and very probably come suddenly to a conclusion of it, if the Czar will either grant
them a tollerable Peace in one case, or cede them their conquests and allow them
satisfaction in the other, their principal Design being to free the Frontiers of Crim
Tartary, which they apprehend to be almost blocked up by the Muscovite places,
and secure the entrance into the Black Sea, having conceived a great jealousy of
the Czar's Design to visit them on that Side, without any thoughts or even desire
of extending their Territories far towards Muscovy.
Supposing the War should go on without any notable successe, the Turks will
probably grow weary of it in a few years, to which many circumstances will con-
tribute, viz* the great charge of it, especially that of the Fleet, the hardships and
sufferings of the Army in a desert country and inclement Climate, the poverty
of [1056] the Pashaws, Zaims and Timariots who serve at their own expence, and
the miserable condition of the Provinces under their Government. The Sultan
indeed, who hath a considerable sum of mony in his Treasury, tho' very unwilling
to part with it, may be forced to bring it out; but it will not last long, and having
been accumulated by the most sparing Oeconomy, the spoil of all those, who were
known to have acquired riches in any Imploym* of the Governm* and fleecing the
people, it will be difficult to find much more, after that shall be spent.
I am told that, in case the French could have procured a Peace, there was
a promise made to succour the Hungarians with 40,000 men, and enter the Empire
with another Army; but this inteligence coming from one who is in the Suedes
interest, may be suspected, and I cannot warrant it rfor truth. I can only give
Your LordsP certain assurance, that the Muscovite Emb both before his confinement
in the Seven Towers and since that time, hath chiefly placed his confidence in Sigr
Galano the Romish Bishop above mentioned and others, who are devoted to the
French, and that Sigr Nicolao Maurocordato lately Druggerman of the Port, and
since Hospodar of Moldavia, but now deposed and disgraced, who was the chief
Instrument and Agent of the Muscovites in all their Affairs, and particularly in
Negotiating the late renewal of the Capitulations, is now actually under the French
Protection, and hidden in the French Arnbr's House.
I have hitherto laboured with my utmost power to persuade the Ministers
of the Port to take such steps as might free the Court of*Vienna from any umbrage,
and to divert [106a] them from giving any incouragement under hand to the Hun-
garian Malecontents, and from declaring or engaging themselves in favour of either
Party in Poland. With relation to the last point, the Vizir and his Kehayah have
given me many assurances, and confirmed the same to me lately by my Druggerman,
that they have no quarrell with Poland, nor intended to commit any Hostilities
against that Kingdome, unlesse they were forced to it, but to leave the Poles to
themselves, and the last time I saw the Vizir under his Tents at Daut Pashaw he
desired me to entertain no thought or jealousy of their entring Poland, adding
what he had formerly said to the Dutch Embr that the Port was not pleased with
either King Augustus or Stanislaus, and supposed that another might be chosen.
He at the same time imparted to me that he had received a letter rfrom Monsr Seniauski
the Crown General of Poland, desiring the Admission of Mons Rybinski in quality
of Embr and Passeports for his proceeding to the Port; but that he the Vizir had
answered, that he did conceive there was any necessity of King Augustus sending
an Embr to the Port at present, especially at a time when he himself was absent
out of the Kingdome. And thereupon he asked me what that Prince was doing
in Saxony.
Your Lordsp will be pleased to instruct me how I am to behave my self hence-
forward, and to excuse me if on this occasion I lay before you the inconvenience
and disadvantage I lye under by having no allowance of Charges either for intelli-
gences or cultivating the friendship of the Turks, or rewarding those, who must
be employed to treat with them, [1066] while others, and especially our Enemies,
are well supplied. There are many, and particularly the men of the Law, who have
now a greater share then usual in the Affairs of State. These men are not practicable
without considerable expences and Presents, and the Custome and jealousy of the
Government will not permit me to visit them often, and they are too much upon
the reserve with Druggermen, so that to treat successfully with them, it is requisite
to employ such as have already their acquaintance, friendship and confidence, who
are either Doctors of Physick or Jews. This Method the French and other Nations
use with advantage, and it is the best that can be followed in this Country.
Mr Jefferyes arrived at Bender the 15 or 16th past. I have not hitherto received
any Letter from him : but the Suedes Envoy hath communicated to me his Memorial
and his Suedish Majesty's Answer to it, copies whereof are inclosed.1 The Envoy
hath likewise by his Master's Order given part thereof to Ministers of the Port who
do not seem to be pleased with the Overture of Peace without any mention of the
said Port.
On the 10th instant the Janissar Aga 2 decamped with the Janissaries from
Adrianople, and began his March towards Bender. He was followed on the 11 th
by the Gebegis, on the 12 by the Topgis with the Artillerie, and on the 14 by the
Vizir himself with the rest of the Army. They will arrive at Bender in about 35 daies
march, designing to halt several daies by the way. The Troops of Rumelia are all
in motion advancing towards the Frontiers by other routes. Those of Anatolia
have for [107a] some time been passing in small Troops at Kallipoli and here, and
of late several Pashaws are gone by. Those of Aleppo, Diarbekir and Adena are
expected in ten or twelve daies, and will scarce join the Army before the 10th of July
at Bender, whither the Tartar Han is called to meet the Vizir, and consult about
the operations of the Campaign. Tho' we know nothing certain of their Design,
they seem to have in view the siege of Camencki, which place, according to late
advices, the Tartars have already surrounded, endeavouring to hinder the entring
of any reinforcem4, Provisions or Ammunition into it, besides that a part of the
Gallies and Frigats have been ordered to the Mouth of the Boristhenes 3 with other
Vessels and Materials for Bridges.
There is advice, that the Fleet is arrived in the Streight of Crimea, except the
Gallies, wcl1 were 14 daies ago at Sinop; but the wind having been fair for them
since that time, 'tis supposed they have also crossed the Sea.
Five men of war weh with some Saicks transported 3000 Janissaries from Egypt
and landed them at Kallipoli, came into Port some daies ago. Two of them are
since sailed into the Black Sea, the other 3 being to return into the Archipelago.
I have waited some time for the Sultan's and Vizir's Letters in answer to those
wch Her Majesty was pleased to write them last summer relating to the Affairs of
the Levant Company. His Highnesse having made them several very considerable
1
2
See British Museum, Add. MSS. 37,358, pp. 347-8.
Yusuf Aga, afterwards Yusuf Pasha, the Commanding General of Janissaries ; he became
Grand
8
Vizier in November 1711.
Mistakenly instead of the Danube.
d
concessions. The s Letters were delivered me a few daies ago by the Caimacam
Pashaw, and I now dispatch them by one of my Officers Expresse according to the
desire of the Vizir [1076] and other Ministers of the Port, Your LordsP hath the
Translation of them inclosed. I am . . .
[124a] [Enclosure 1]
Translation of the Vizier Azem's Letter
to the Queen.1
To the most Glorious of the Great Princes of the Faith of Jesus, the Elect above
the commanding Potentates of the Nation of the Messias, the Arbitrator of the
publick Differences among Christian People, reverenced for munificience and Majesty,
Lady of Honour and Glory, the present Queen of England, Scotland, Ireland and
other Countrys etc. the respected and our affectionate great friend Queen Anne
whose end may it be in the way of health. Having presented to you our loving
and affectionate salutation and the assurance of Good will agreable to our friendship,
we lovingly give you to understand that your sincere Letter sent to the Imperial
Throne of my most powerful and most formidable Emperor and Master who is
the Refuge of the most magnificent Princes of the age, as also [1246] your loving
Letter dispatcht to us, both by the means of your ambassador residing at the high
Port the noble among the Great Lords of the Nation of the Messias Robert Sutton
(his end may it be in happiness) have been delivered to Us. According to the
ancient Custom as well the Substance of the Contents of Your said Letter, as also
the representation made by word of mouth by your said ambassador, has been
by me laid in the Talhis before his Imperial Majesty r who in his Royal and Vast
Prudence has comprehended it all. Your said amb having been permitted to
represent from You the attention anciently given to the observing and cultivating
the good Peace between the High Port and your Predecessors, as also the articles
and conventions of the Imperial Capitulations, Credit has been given to what he
said, and afterwards to the Instances made by him on the subject of the security
of the Trade [125a] of your Merchants and subjects in the Ottoman Empire, that
they may not be molested by the exorbitent pretences of the Officers of the Customs
and the Farmers, but rather be protected and defended. Let it not therefore be
concealed that agreably to what has been observed hitherto from the most happy
time of the most glorious Predecessors of my most Powerful Monarch, the Conventions
expressed in the Capitulations granted to your ancestors, shall also in his most
happy time be still observed and respected. My most gracious Monarch having
shown his Imperial favour as well to the affairs exprest in Your sincere Letters,
as to what your said ambassador has signifyed by word of mouth ; To the end that
by vertue of the Imperial Capitulations, your Merchants and other subjects may go
and come freely in the Imperial Dominions with all security and Quiet, without
that in their Passage [125J] on the way they be in any manner molested contrary
to the Imperial Constitutions, nor suffer any vexation, but that they may enjoy
1
The Turkish original is preserved in the P.R.O., Foreign, Royal Letters 102, Bundle 4
(Extracts).
all quiet favour and protection. Effectual Declarations and Inhibitions are issued
every where to all the Commanders, and Judges and to the Officers of the Customs,
and Farmers and all the other Officers. An Imperial Letter is therefore written
to you, and in conformity to the contents of it, our present loving Letter is founded,
and by the means of your said ambassador dispatched. As the Conditions and
articles of the High Capitulations granted by the most Glorious Predecessors of
my most powerful and formidable Monarch, have been observed, in the same manner,
if it please God, they shall for the future be still observed and respected by his Imperial
Ma*y; and your Merchants and Subjects in coming and going [126a] in the Imperial
Dominions may with all security and Quiet traffick with the enjoyment of all tran-
quillity, under the Shadow of the Royal Imperial Protection. And as to thus much,
you may be assured, that we will use all diligence herein. For the rest may the
Divine Salvation be on such as are obedient in the true way of God. Given in the
Camp of Adrianople.1
[128a] [Enclosure 2]
Translation of the Sultan's Letter
to the Queen.
To the most Glorious of the Great Princes of the Faith of Jesus, the Elect above
the commanding Potentates of the Nation of the Messias the Arbitrator of the Publick
differences among Christian People, reverenced for munificence and Majesty, Lady
of Honour and Glory, the present Queen of England, Scotland, Ireland and other
Countrys etc. whose end may it be in Good and in the way of health.
With the arrival of this present sublime and Imperial Letter notice is given,
that there is come to Our Imperial Throne which through the Grace and Providence
of the Almighty God Creator of the Universe, and the abundance and greatness
of the infinite miracles of Our Glorious Prophet the Beloved of God Mahamet.
Mustaffa (on whom be all benediction) is the Refuge of Kings and the Recourse of
the most magnificent [128&] Princes of the Age) by means of your Ambassador
residing here, the Noble among the Great Lords of the Nation of the Messias Robert
Sutton (whose end may it terminate in Good) your Sincere Letter, which according
to the ancient Ottoman Custom, has been translated, and the Substance of its contents
has been represented in Talhis at the foot of my high Imperial Throne and the
whole has been comprehended in our Imperial and Vast Prudence. Your said
Ambassador having been permitted to represent on your part the attention which
anciently has been had in observing and cultivating the good Peace between Our
High Empire and your Predecessors, as also the articles and Conventions of Our
Imperial Capitulations ; Credit was given to what he said, and to the instance
relating to the Security of the Trade of Your Merchants and Subjects in Our Empire,
without their being molested by the exorbitant pretences of the [129a] Officers of
the Customs and Farmers of Our Revenue; On the contrary that they be protected
1
The date in the translation of the Sultan's letter to the Queen is the middle of Rab. i,
A.H. 1123.
and defended. Let it not therefore be concealed, that as the Conventions expressed
in the Capitulations granted, have been observed hitherto from the happy time of
Our Sublime Predecessors ; so also in our happy time they shall be observed and
respected; We having afforded Our Imperial favour as well to the affairs exprest
in your said Sincere Letter, as to what your Ambassador declared by word of mouth
and to the end that by vertue of our Imperial Constitutions your Merchants and
other Subjects may go and come in Our Empire with all Security and quiet, without
any molestation in their Passage in any manner contrary to the Imperial Capitula-
tions, much less any Vexation ; but that they may enjoy all quiet favour and protec-
tion, Effectual Orders and Inhibitions are universally given to all the Commanders
[1296] and Judges and to the Officers of the Customs, the Farmers and all other
Officers. This my present Imperial Letter is therefore written, and by the means
of the said Ambassador dispatchd. And if God please, in such manner as the con-
ditions and articles of the Capitulations granted have been observed in the time of
Our most glorious Predecessors, so for the future they shall be observed and respected,
and your Merchants and Subjects in going and coming in Our Dominions may with
all security and quiet traffick with the Enjoyment of all tranquillity under the
Shadow of our Royal Protection. Of so much you may be persuaded. For the
rest, Divine Salvation to him who is obedient in the true way of God. Given in
Our Camp of Adrianople in the midst of the moon called Rebins ewel in the year
1123.1

25 June 1711
My Lord
The last, which I had the honour to write your Lords? was of the 29th past,
which I dispatched with the Gr. Sigr's and Vizir's Letters to the Queen by one of
my Officers Expresse.
A small Body of Muscovites having advanced and posted themselves at Raskow,2
15 hours above Bender, where they laid Bridges over the Niester and secured the
fordable places of that River, raised an Allarrn at Bender, on which occasion, as I
understand from good hands there passed some reproaches between the King of
Sueden and the Pashaws there present, the later resenting the backwardnesse of
the Suedes Pomeranian Army, which hath been so long promised and often affirmed
to be already in March, and that Prince accusing the Slownesse of the Turks. Soon
after Demetrio Kantemir, Hospodar of Moldavia, promoted to that Post at the
recommendation of the Tartar Han, went over to the Muscovites with two or 3
Boyars, some of the rest being retired with their best Effects into Transilvania,
where they design to expect the event of the War. Kantemir had raised all the
mony he was able under pretence of Levying Militia and making preparations for
the war, and two or 3 daies before his Retreat forced the Turk Merchants of Jassy
1
The Italian versions of the Vizir Azem's letter
2
and that of the Sultan are given on fos. 122
and 120. Raszkow.
to advance him about fifty Purses of mony ; so that he is esteemed to have carried
off near 150,000 Dollars with his Princesse and family [1086] I cannot certainly
learn what number of Soldiers followed him, some saying he was but slenderly
attended and others that about 1000 or 1200 of the best soldiers of the Country
went along with him. Sigr Giovanni Maurocordato Druggerman of the Port hath
been substituted in his place.
The Vizir being arrived at the Danube thought fit to halt there for a little
time and wait the junction of some of the Pashaws and Troops, that remained
behind, and dispatched his Talkisgi to the Port with an account of what had passed
and for further Instructions. He is supposed to have reached Bender before this
time, where some of the Pashaws of Anatolia, who lately passed by, cannot arrive
in lesse than a fortnight or 3 weeks. The Muscovites unexpected approach which
is supposed upon the Appearance of the forementioned advanced Body, seems to
have somewhat disconcerted these people, and may possibly break their measures.
They are much concerned and disappointed at the failing of the Suedes Promises,
that their Pomeranian Forces should early enter Poland, and cannot conceal their
ill humour, and I hear, tho' without any certainty, that the Sultan hath ordered
the Vizir not to seek the Muscovites nor present them Battle. The Vizir hath lately
sent for Monsr Bonkowski, the Polish Minister to the Camp, who was forced to
depart on short warning, after having in vain insisted for [109a] a few daies more
to prepare himself for his journey. 'Tis possible what hath been represented to the
Vizir touching the Affairs of Poland may have sunk better into his mind; since
he hath had occasion to discover the insincerity or deceitfullnesse of the Assurances
he had received from the Suedes and the Poles, who adhere to them, relating to
the condition and dispositions of that Kingdome.
Monsr Perrin, who is now said to be one of the Gentlemen of King Augustus
his Bedchamber, returned hence about three weeks ago without any successe, that
I can learn, in the Commissions, with wcb he was charged, wherein it is still affirmed,
that some of King Augustus his Ministers, as well as the chief Poles of his Party
were concerned. The French Emb r Desalleurs, who had the principal managem*
of that intrigue, continues neverthelesse to cultivate the friendship of the Suedes
by very Extraordinary Complaisances, when Monsr Funck the Suedes Envoy 1
paid him his first visit in Ceremony, the Embassr gave him the hand and place of
honour in his own house.
Ali Pasha of Erzerum appointed Seraskier of the Army designed to act on the
side of Assac, after having waited some time at Sinop for want of Saiks to transport
his Troops, sailed out of that Port on the 10th instant. It is pretended here, that
he is to undertake some siege, and some flatter themselves that he will attack Assack.
The King of Sueden hath sent [1096] MS/jor General Hohl and some Officers to
assist him with some Ingeniers. If the Muscovite Places on that side are in a good
condition, I believe there is little to be expected from that Army, which is chiefly
composed of such men, as can be spared off the Fleet, and raw Soldiers lately levied
in Anatolia.
1
Colonel Thomas Funck, the second Swedish Envoy at Constantinople from June 1711.
He died of malaria in Demotica, 13 November 1713.
We have received advice from Caffa in 6 daies, that the Crim Tartars are
assembled near the Isthmus of Precop, where the Han very lately left them, setting
out with a small retinue for Bender, to assist at the Councils of War to be held there,
wherein it will be finally determined what operations they will undertake this Cam-
paign. Their Army will be somewhat stronger, then was believed, by reason of the
appearance of some numbers of Janissaries and Spahis to recover their pay, which
had been cut off in the time of the late Vizir Ali Pasha, and will exceed 80,000 fighting
men. But I am assured, that they already begin to desert considerably, and that
the flux is among them, as well as on the fleet, besides that the Soldiery is much
dissatisfied and inclined to mutiny. The Crim and Budziack' Tartars may be com-
puted at upwards of 50111 men. I am . . .

16 July 1711
My Lord
Having no Druggerman nor secretary at the Turkish Camp, I cannot be very
certain and exact in the accounts I have the honour to give Your Lordship of what
passes on the frontiers. Since my last of the 25 past we have understood, that the
Body of Muscovites, which appeared first about the end of May O.S. at Raskow and
there laid Bridges over the Niester, consisted of 30 m men under the Command of
Velt-Marshal Szeremetof ; that they passed the River, and chose a very advantageous
Camp, where they intrenched themselves and still remain with their left wing on the
Niester and their right extending to the Pruth over against Jassy, and a Rivulet
in their front. They detached Parties all over Moldavia, which brought them
back a great booty of Cattle, in which that Country abounded. The Vizir being
arrived at Isackgia the Village, where the Turks laid their Bridg over the Danube,
thought fit to halt there and wait the junction of the Pashaws and Troops, that
remained behind, and did not passe the River 'till about twenty daies ago, after
which he marched towards the Enemy giving out, that he would attack him in his
Camp : But before he moved from the Danube there was advice, that the Czar was
within two Marches of [1126] Szeremetof with the rest of his Army, ready to join
him at pleasure. Those, who are newly come from the Ottoman Army, left it
incamped within 4 hours of the Enemy without any appearance of giving an Attack,
which may likewise be concluded from the length of time, as well as other Circum-
stances ; so that the only means left for dislodging the Muscovites seem to be the
cutting off their subsistence or the passage of the Suedes Pomeranian Forces into
Poland. The former doth not appear very easy, since the Muscovites have not only
a Communication with Podolia and Volhynia, but likewise with the Country on this
Side Lemburg,1 which is very plentifull, and the advantage of the River Niester.
The Turks have sent a Body of Tartars on the other side that River to incommode
them.
'Tis said the greatest part of the Moldavians are gone over to the Muscovites,
1
Lwow, Lemberg.
r
and Sig Giovanni Maurocordato lately appointed Hospodar of that Province was
forced to return to the Ottoman Army without undertaking the Government of it.
Sigr Tomaso Cantacuzeno the Prince of Wallachia's Nephew and Spatar or
General, being sent with a Body of 3000 men to the Turkish Camp, took an oppor-
tunity to desert with 40 or 50 men to the Muscovites, and both he [113a] and Demetrio
Kantemyr are now in their Camp listing the Moldavians, Wallachians, Bulgarians
and others, that come over to them out of Rumelia.
The Palatin of Kiovia and Monsr Orlick 1 joined the Vizir with their Poles and
Cossacks on the Danube, and received from him each a sable Vest and a Scimetar.
The Tartar Han likewise came to the Vizir, before he left the Danube : but we do
not yet hear of the Motion of the Crim Tartars.
There is no fresh news from the Fleet and Army on the Palus Maeotis, which
suffer much by the Flux, and are not supposed to be in a condition to attempt any
thing considerable.
I beg leave to inclose an Extract of a Letter from Mr Jefferyes, not knowing
whether his Letters, which go by other Conveyances may arrive so safe and speedily.
I am . . . 2
[114a] [Enclosure]
Extract of a Letter from Mr Jefferyes, dated
at Bender June the 14th O.S. 1711.
What I have at present to advise is, that since I failed of gaining His Majesty's
consent to the Whole, I thought it my duty to sound the Ministers how far the King
would be willing to consent to that act, and whether he would not admit of the
Neutrality as far as it relates to the Provinces of the Empire. I explained to them
how much it would be for the King's interest to satisfy Her Majesty and the Allies
in this point, and that it would raise in them a more hearty desire to promote this
interest, when they were assured the King of Sueden would not undertake any
thing against the German Provinces and especially Saxony. I farther added that
Her Majesty and the Allies have so great a regard for His Majesty's Promise, that
I believed they would be contented with this bare words without insisting on a
Publick Declaration, which in matters of so great importance is not usually done.
But all this I told them I advanced as my own private opinion only. Monsr de
Mullern answered me at that time in general terms, that Her Majesty and the Allies
have no reason to apprehend any thing from the King of Sueden as long as they do not
oppose his interest, and assured me also the King had no engagement with France,
nor any Design to enter into any with that Crown; that he has already declared
as well in his Publick Acts as to his Ministers residing at the several Courts
his intention allways to keep a good Correspondence with the Allies, and that therefore
to think he would do any thing contrary to their interest would be to suspect Hi
Majesty's sincerity, which is manifest to all the world. But Monsr de Mullern a
1
Philip Orlick, Hetman of the Cossacks, who followed Charles XII to Turkey. He had
been 2 chosen Hetman after Mazepa's death in September 1709.
3
H. G. von Mullern, Court-Chancellor of the Swedish king in Bender.
having received a Letter from the Suedish Envoy at the Hague, in which he saies
the Allies have promised to mediate a Peace between Sueden and Denmark, in
case the King of Sueden will assure them not to invade Saxony, He told me by
order of the King, that His Majesty can give no such assurance as long as he is
in War with King Augustus, but would always reserve to himself a Power to seek
his Enemy wherever the Operations of War require ; That the King was sorry the
situation of Saxony was such as that his entring that Country should give any
jealousy to the Allies, which was far from his intention, and that therefore he desired
no more then that Her Majesty and the Allies would fullnll their Guaranties for the
Treaties of Travendahlx and Alt-Ranstadt,2 and they might assure themselves he
would not give them the least reason to mistrust him. In fine he told me that His
Majesty might easily satisfy the Allies with the desired assurance, had he a mind
to put them off with Promises only : but that was none of his intention and never
[1146] would be his practice. This is what the King alledged for his refusing to
satisfy the Allies in this point likewise. The truth is that Suedish Ministers here
are very sensible of What importance to Sueden a Peace with Denmark will be,
and have therefore done their utmost endeavours to persuade the King to satisfy
the Allies in their desire, but what makes him so averse to it is chiefly (as I have
been told by some) that he thinks he has been neglected by the Allies, who instead
of assisting him in his necessity and misfortune, have taken occasion from thence
to prescribe him Laws. This is what he cannot bear, and as long as this jealousy
subsists there is little hope of attaining any thing from him; neither do I see any
way of removing it but by procuring him a Peace with Denmark and King Augustus.

25 July 1711
My Lord
Two daies before the last, which I had the honour to write your LordsP under
the 16th curr4, the master of a Saick arrived in four daies from Kilia3 brought a
confused report of a Victory gained over the Muscovites. The wind having been
southerly for several daies preceding, it was not believed that he could make his
passage in so short a time, and every body inclined to think that he had invented
the story in hopes of gaining a reward : but the fellow standing out in affirming
to those, who examined him by the Sultan's order, that the news came to Kilia
just at his departure thence, and that they had already begun to make rejoycings
for it, We remained in suspence for two daies, at the end whereof no confirmation
being come either by sea or by land, tho' the time was more then sufficient for it,
every body, and particularly the Port, gave itp up as a false report, for which reason
I judged it fruitlesse to trouble your Lords , with any mention of it, the rather
1
The Treaty of Travendahl, concluded on 18 August 1700 between Sweden and Denmark,
after2 Charles XII's victorious campaign.
3
Concluded on 24 September 1706 between Charles XII and Augustus II of Poland.
A town on the Danube.
because no circumstances were so much as related, and your LordsP would receive
the first advices of it, if it were true, sooner from other parts. We continued in this
persuasion till Sunday the 22 instant, when a servant of Osman Aga the Vizir's
Kehaya arrived with advice, that his Master was near at hand bringing an account
of the whole successe. The next day accordingly [1356] he enter'd the Town in
Pomp, having been 13 daies on the road by reason of an indisposition, and in the
supposition that the news of the advantage obtained over the Muscovites was already
arrived by a messenger dispatched by the Vizir Azem, who was assassinated in the
Mountains by the Heydukes.1 He addressed himself first to Ali Pashaw the Sultan's
Son in Law and Favourite, who immediately carried him to the Seraglio and intro-
duced him to his Hig(h)nesse. I have used all possible diligence to procure a true
information of the whole successe, and here present Your Lords? the account I
have received thereof from the Reis Effendi,2 and Osman Kehaya himself, with whome
I have an old acquaintance and friendship, and shall subjoin what I have further
learnt from other men of note and credit among the Turks, and from the Suedes
Envoy,3 who hath received several Letters on this occasion from Gen. Poniatowski.
The Ottoman Army, after easy marches from the Danube, pitched their Camp
in sight of the Enemy, and being incommoded by a Battery of guns, which the
Muscovites had placed on a hill on this side the Pruth, where they had an advanced
Post defended by a Body of men, whence they chiefly galled the Sacchas or water
Bearers; the Turks found it necessary to make themselves masters of that post,
and therefore attacked it with 2Om of their best Foot called Serdengestis or Volunteers
chosen out of their army [136a] and carried it, but not without considerable losse.
After the first advantage they raised Battery of 12 mortars on the said Hill, with
which they bombarded some part of the Muscovite Camp on the other side the
Pruth and finding the said River fordable, on the 9 th instant they passed it and
being in presence of the Enemy in the Evening made their Dispositions for an attack,
which they designed to give the next morning. But the Infantry being fleshed and
animated with the former successe and under little Command could not be withheld
from falling on the Enemy's Camp, which was well intrenched and garnished with
canon and chevaux de Frize. The Turks were repulsed that evening with great
losse in 4 several assaults which lasted 'till an hour in the night. The next morning,
when they were beginning to renew the attack with more preparation and order,
the Muscovites lost their courage and would not put themselves in a posture of
defence, throwing down their arms, and falling into disorder, as soon as the foremost
of the Turks were mounting their Retrenchem*8. Upon this the Czar sent two
Plenipotentiaries, Monsr Saffiroff4 his Vice-Chancellor and Michael Bori(so)vitz
Velt-Marechal Szeremetof's Grandson with a white Flag to the Vizir offering him
Peace on such terms as he himself could desire for the Port. The Vizir accepted
the Proposal, and immediately both he and the other Commanding Officers, as
well as the Shechs or Doctors of the Law [1366] and Preachers, stopped the pursuit,
crying out Haman, mercy or Quarter and in a short time adjusted the articles of
1
4
Hayduk, brigand, especially Bulgarian. _2 Ebubekir Efendi. 3
Thomas Funck.
Baron Peter Sharov, Russian Vice-Chancellor and one of the outstanding personalities
in the entourage of Peter the Great. He was the chief author of the Peace of the Pruth (July 1711).
Peace. The said conditions are in substance, That the Muscovites shall restore to
the Turks the Fortresse of Assac in the state it was taken, with the Canon and it's
Territory and Dependances. Taganrog and Samara are to be razed ; Camenchi
(called by the Muscovites Caminazaton) * to be demolished, and the canon and
the ammunition to be delivered to the Turks, and no Fortification to be raised there
in the future. That they shall restore the Ucraina subject to Poland and the Tartar
Han to its pristine state, without concerning themselves therewith or with the
Poles ; And shall grant the King of Sueden free passage without giving him any
interruption or hindrance. That the Muscovite army shall retire by the shortest
way to their own Country without any hindrance or disturbance from the Turks
or Tartars. The two Muscovite plenipotentiaries remain as Hostages for the
Execution of this agreement.
The Vizir hath appointed Yuruk Hassan Pashaw of Sophia to assist at the
razing Caminchi and receive the Canon and ammunition, and Gian-Aslan Oglu
Pasha of Tchangara to take possession of Assac, they are to be accompanied with
Officers from the Czar with his orders for the Execution of the Premisses. The Vizir
gave the Muscovites 11 daies Provisions, of which they were in great want, after
which they had liberty to retire, and were already filing off and marching homewards ;
but the Tartars still [137a] insulting and incommoding them, the Vizir gave them a
convoy of two Pashaws with a body of Turkish horse to accompany and guard them,
or rather as the Turks now say to observe them in their Retreat.
To this account imparted to me by the Old Reis Effendi,2 who now serves in
that quality near the Caimacam, and by Osman Kehaya, I annex the translation
of a Turkish relation, as it hath been communicated to me.
But I believe it to be erroneous in the passage where mention is made of the
number of the slain on the Turks side.. These last own to have had in the whole
7000 men killed and 10,000 wounded. What may be added from Gen1 Poniatowski's
Letters and the Relation of several Turks of note is, that they knew from Prisoners
made by the Tartars in several Rencounters and Suedes Deserters, who had been
forced into the Muscovite service, that their army was in a miserable condition for
want of victuals and Forrage, for which and maintaining their communication, tho'
they had both time and means sufficient, they took very ill measures, shutting them-
selves up in their Camp, and suffering themselves to be surrounded by the Tartars,
who hovered about them, for a good time before the Ottoman Army came up to
them, or even moved from the Danube. That this notwithstanding, he Poniatowski
was 3 or 4 daies before he could prevail with the Vizir to march up to them und
attack them. That after the Turks passed the Pruth, [1376] they and the Tartars
surrounded them in such a manner that they must have surrendered themselves
for want of victuals and water, without any necessity of attacking them. I suppose
Poniatowski passed the attacking Muscovites out of an apprehension of a Treaty
of Peace, the suspicion whereof and of an underhand dealing had prevailed with
the King of Sueden to leave Bender and repair to the army, where he arrived a
day or two after the fray. That when the Czar made Proposals of Peace, they
might have cut off his whole army, his Troops throwing down their arms and refusing
1 2
Kamenny Zaton, a Russian fortress on the Dnieper. Abdulkerim Efendi.
E
to defend themselves. That the Vizir precipitated the Parley and Treaty of Peace,
without explaining or extending any one article, but hurrying the whole over without
hearkening to any thing he could say upon that subject. The Tartar Han vigorously
opposed the agreement, and did all in his power to persuade the pursuing their
advantage and wholly destroying the Enemy. The King of Sueden is very much
dissatisfied with the peace, there being nothing stipulated in his favour, save his
free passage without so much as the least mention of the manner and circumstances
of it.
This may deservedly be looked on as one of the most surprizing and Extra-
ordinary Events, that ever happened. The Muscovites ill behaviour is chiefly
imputed to two causes, their being reduced to a poor condition and disheartened
by hunger, and a strange pannic fear that seized them. The [138a] Vizir's facility
and moderation is as wonderfull on the other side. He was so averse to war, so
apprehensive and doubtfull before the action, so transported with an unexpected
successe, and knew his master's dispositions to be so like his own (nay still more,
as I have it from the Cadileskier of Rumelia and others of good credit, had his High-
ness' Instructions to make Peace, if he could procure the surrendry of some of the
new Fortresses without any regard to the King of Sueden's interests) that he gladly
stopped his career and embraced the first proposals of a Peace advantageous to the
Port, without troubling himself with any further considerations. In this place
'tis hard to say whether their preceding fears or the present joy be greater. The
Sultan, who hath been all along in great concern, and hath lately distinguished
himself by prayers and abstinence, was exceedingly pleased with the Peace, and
readily gave his ratification, with which Osman Kehaya is to return to the Camp
in a day or two. The Sultan hath promised him 3 Tails, and 'tis believed he will
be made Capitan Pashaw at the Vizir's return.
[118a] [Enclosure]
A Relation of the Turkish Victory over the
Muscovites in July 1711.
Our Ottoman Army being arrived near the River Pruth in Moldavia in the
face of the Muscovite Army that was intrenched on the other side, they presently
began to disturb us from the top of the mountain called Han Tepesi where they
had raised a Battery of Canon wherewith they very much incommoded our Camp,
particularly our Sacha that wehts to the water; so that we were obliged to send
20,000 chosen men called Serdenghecti who with great bravery assaulted the Body
of Muscovites that were posted to defend this mountain and after a sharp Fight
obliged the Muscovites to abandon this advantagious post and took their Canon,
with the Loss however of 10,000 of that Detachment and as many more of the Enemy.
Then our men carryd up to the top of that Hill 16 mortars by firing of which we very
much incommoded the Muscovite Camp and put them into great confusion. Then
we continued how to environ and surround their Camp on all sides so that they
should not be able to receive any supply of provisions from any part, they were
also cut off from the water and deprived of all [1186] Communications whatever,
so that they suffered greatly thro' the want of all necessarys. In the mean time
one of our Europeans of Bosnia finding a Ford in the said River passed over and
brought back the Head of one of the Enemy; This encouraging our European
Militia finding that the River was fordable, on Wednesday they made a great assault
about the houre of Kindi * upon the Ennemys Intrenchments and the Fight lasted
till an houre and half after it was night; our men were beat back without being
able to force their Intrenchments and the Slaughter was great on both sides. Then
on Thursday morning our men renewed the assault with great bravery and courage,
that the Muscovites intimidated by the valour of our Musulmans and also under great
consternation by reason of the famine among them put out the white Flagg. In
this occasion the Prime Visier shewed his great Clemency who with sword in hand
stopt and kept back the assailants that they might not commit any further hostilities,
since the Ennemy had laid down their arms and begged for Quarter. After this they
sent to our Camp several of the Chief among them, who represented that their master
the Czar never intended to make warr against the High Porte, but that the Instiga-
tion of some people who for their own Interest had sewed discord and jealousies
between the two [1190] Empires had brought on both partys to an open Hostility;
and to make it evident that the Czar had no ill Intention against the Ottoman Empire
he was ready to give it all manner of satisfaction and to yeld up Asack, Taganrock
and demolish the Fortress of Kamenki which was the Stumbling block, and would
cultivate a good peace and give all possible content to his Imperial Maj*y. And as2
a further security for all this the Czar sent two Hostages, to wit, the son of Sceremet
and his Vice Chancelor Jaffirou who are some of his Chief Ministers. Upon these pro-
posals the Grand Vizier and the other Ministers consented to make a peace and to give
them Quarter, being enjoyned so to do by our holy Law, and presently the articles
were framed and sent to the Grand Signior whose Ratification is expected. They are
thought to import that the Muscovites shall withdraw all his Troops from Poland and
give free passage to the Swedish King and likewise restore to him the Province of
Livonia, that they shall yeld up all their Canon and ammunition, except 50 pieces,
that are granted to the Czar, as a favour, and that they shall restore Azack, Tagan-
rock and demolish Kamenki, and pay a summ of mony besides to defray our Expences.
" There are sent from the Camp, the Bashaw of Rumelia named Juruk Hassan
Bashaw towards the Fortress of Kamenki, and towards Asack Gian [119J] Asian
Oglu Bashaw of Ciangara, and to protect the Muscovites from the Insults of the
Tartars, who did not without reluctancy consent to this agreement, two Bashaws
are appointed, one of Diarbeck called AH Bashaw, the other Kiurd Bayram Oglu,
Ibrahim Bashaw, with a Detachm1 of 12,000 men, and the Ennemys Forces have had
provisions allowed them for 11 Days. Thus by the Grace of God have we obtained
so signal a victory and concluded so advantagious a peace.
1
Ikindi, the time between late afternoon and sunset.
2
The Russian Field-Marshal, Count Boris Feodorovich Sheremetov.

27 July 1711
My Lord
Since I wrote what foregoes I have procured from Osman Aga a Copy of the
Treaty between the Port and the Czar, whereof Your LordsP hath a Translation
herewith.
The Z3 instant the Gr. Sigr dispatcht a [1386] Salahore or Querry to the Vizir
with his approbation of it.
The 24th in the evening arrived a Mirzah with 3 servants in 4 daies from the
Han with very large Remonstrances against the conduct of the Vizir Azem, since
which the Sultan is said to be much displeased with the said Vizir and Osman Aga
his late Kehayah, whome he yesterday put into the office of Imbrohor, much inferior
both in credit, profit and the road of preferment, to that of Vizir Kehayasi, and the
people now talk with great liberty against them. 'Tis believed that either the
Tartar Han or they must inevitably be intirely disgraced and ruined. Many of the
men of the Law seem neverthelesse to excuse them upon the Gr. Sigr's preceding
Orders, and we believe that Ali Pashaw the Sultan's son in Law and favourite and
the Kislar Aga 1 will intercede for them. Yesterday Mehmet Aga the Sultan's
Capigilar Kehayasi, who they say is to succeed Osman Aga in the Office of Vizir
Kehayasi, departed with a Vest for the Vizir, and a Vest, a cap with a plume of
Heron's feathers and a sabre for the Tartar Han.
Some believe the Czar will decline executing the Treaty faithfully, when he is
retired out of the Turks reach. I find no ground for such a persuasion, but if it
should so fall out, these people will fall into great confusion among themselves. If the
Czar had thought good to expect the Turks on his own frontier, He might have ruined their
Army.2 Before the action the Turks deserted [139a] in great numbers coming
down in saicks, and their army now dissipates apace, several saicks arriving every
day full of men, beside those that retire by Land. 'Tis certain that they never
had 80,000 fighting men, beside Tartars and Cossacks, together in the Field, and
their Cavalry never came to any action.
This Reverse of fortune is observed to have befal'n the Czar thro' two faults,
that were committed, First by entring into Moldavia and shutting himself up without
taking sufficient measures for his subsistence and maintaining his communication.
Secondly for not securing better the Hill upon the Pruth, where he had an advanced
Post of very great importance. 'Tis said it was but very weakly guarded and ill
defended, and that the Turks, after having made themselves masters of it, not
only raised on it a Battery of mortars with which they bombarded part of the Musco-
vite Camp, but also a Battery of Canon, which raked and lashed the River and
cut them off from their water. To these may be added another fault, which was,
when he found his army in so ill condition, neglecting either to retire or to make
overtures of Peace more timely, before the Ottoman Army came up to him, at
1
Kizlar Agasi, the chief of the eunuchs of the Seraglio. At this time he was Suleyman Aga.
2
The passage in italics is in cipher in the manuscript.
which time there is great reason to believe, that the Vizir would have been satisfied
with a small matter, and possibly with the Demolition of Camencki and Samara,
or Camencki alone.
Since the arrival of the Mirzah from the Tartar Han, the Turks are sensible of
the Vizir's easinesse [139&] in making so slight a composition with the Czar, and
I have it from good hands among the men of the Law, that the Grand Seignior would
be glad if the Gr. Vizir could still either by force or artifice get the Czar into his hand but
the opportunity is thought to be over and past, so that much seemeth to depend on the
safe Retreat of his Majesty with his army.1
The accounts we have recd hitherto of the several actions are so confused,
and the Turks are so carelesse in observing and relating Circumstances, that we
can get no clear information of the situation of the Muscovite's Camp. Only 'tis
certain, that the Turks were repulsed in 4 several attacks the 9 th instant in the
Evening, and as they were beginning to renew the Attack the next morning, the
Muscovites hung out a White Flag and enter'd into Treaty. I am . . . 2
[n6a] [Enclosure^
Copy of the Temezuk or Instrument of the
Peace granted to the Muscovites.3
The occasion of this authentick Writing is, that the victorious Turkish Army
having, by the Grace of God, with besieging the Czar of Muscovy and his whole
army and making great slaughter of them near the River Pruth, reduced them to
very great streights, he sued for peace and upon the Desire of the said Czar the
Treaty and articles were framed and agreed upon in the manner following.
That he shall restore the Fortresse of Assac in the Condition it was when
he formerly took it, with its Territorys and other Dependancies.
That Taigan, Camenchi and the new Fortresse built at the mouth of the
River Samar shall be entirely demolished, the Canon and Warlike stores in the
Fortresse of Camenchi being to remain to the High Porte and that no other
Fortresse shall hereafter be erected in that place.
That the Czar shall not intermeddle with the affairs of the Polacks nor
of the Cossacks who depend on them called Barabasci and Potcali,4 nor [116&]
likewise with those who depend on the most Happy Han Devlet Gherai, but
shall leave them in their ancient state and shall withdraw his hand from all
those parts.
That the Merchants may come by land to the Ottoman Territory with
their Merchandise but that no Person shall be allowed to reside in the quality
of Ambassador at the High Porte.
1
8
The last paragraph of the letter is in Sutton's own hand.
* The Turkish text is in the Name-i Humayun (The Central Archives at Constantinople),
No. 6, pp. 218-19 .' the.Russian text, in T. Juzefovitch, Dogovory Rossiis Vostokom (St. Petersburg,
1869), pp. 11-12.
4
Bardbash was the Turkish name for Cossacks in general; Potcali for the Zaporog cossacks ;
see below, p. 95.
That all the Musulmans who are slaves, as well those who have been formerly
taken as those taken in the present war and are now in the hands of the
Muscovites shall be set at liberty.
That as the King of Sueden hath taken refuge under the Wings of the power-
full protection of the High Porte he may have a free and safe passage without
being in any wise hindered or opposed by the Muscovites, and if they can agree
among themselves and are content to make a peace they are at liberty to do it.
And for the future no Injury nor Insult of any kind shall be offered by
the High Porte to the Muscovites, nor likewise by them to their Subjects and
other Dependants. And so it is besought of [117a] the immense Royal Goodness
of my most powerfull and mercifull Imperial Master that .he will please to
ratify the above written articles and to overlook the late evil deportment of
the Czar.
So in the above said manner by virtue of my full power and authority the
present Instrument hath been framed and signed. Therefore the Hostages shall
be detained which the Czar has given for the execution of the Treaty and Articles con-
tained in the 1above (said) Instrument, and the Instruments of the Peace called
the Temezuks shall be signed by both partys, and his army may freely return
the direct way to his country without any molestation either from the victorious
army or from the Tartars or others. Then the foresaid Articles being put in execution
and the Ratifications exchanged on both sides, the Hostages who are now in the
victorious Camp the Honourable among the Chief of the Nation of the Messiah his
privy Chancellor Baron Peter Safnrof and Szeremet's Grandson Michael di Boritz
(happy be their End) when the whole is fullfilled shall be allowed immediately to
depart towards their own country. In witness whereof the present writing was
signed. Dated in the Camp Hosh th Ghetchti 2 (what is in the Camp named upon
this occasion of Happy Event) the 6 of the Moon Gemaziel achir in the Year 1123
(that is the 10/21 July 1711).

10 August 1711
My Lord
I had the honour to write Your Lord? under the 27th past such confused and
imperfect notices, as I should then procure touching the late Incounter and action
between the Ottoman and Muscovite Armies on the River Pruth, and the hasty
conclusion of a Peace, of the Instrument whereof, as signed by the Vizir Azem, I
transmitted3 a Translation, and now inclose its Duplicate, lest the former may have
miscarried. I am now further to acquaint your LordP that the Czar hath engaged
himself by a separate Article, wch at his request to spare him the dishonour of it,
1
2
Temessiik, Instrument, an obligation.
Hush getchidi, ' the fort of the Hush ' (in Rumanian : Husi). The explanation of the
name3 given in the text is incorrect.
The other version is on fo. 174a.
was not inserted in the Instrument, to pay for the future the former usual Pension of
40,000 Ducats per annum to the Tartar Han, wch was released and abolished at the
conclusion of the last peace.
The Vizir insisted likewise upon the surrendry of the Muscovite Artillery, w011
the Czar avoided by offering and agreeing on an Equivalent for it, the Vizir consenting
to receive the Canon and Ammunition of Camenchi in lieu thereof.
The Muscovites were enticed and drawn into Moldavia by the Invitations of
Demetrio Cantemyr Hospodar of that Province, who assured them of great plenty of
all sorts of Provisions, and that all his own Principality and the greatest part of
Wallachia were disposed to declare for them. Upon their arrival and advancing near
to Jassy the Chief Town of the Province and the Prince's seat, they found the Prince's
Promises and their Expectations fail. Only two or [1676] three Boyars and about
4000 Moldavians, and very few Wallachians came in to them. The Country, which,
tho' of a fertile soil, hath been for many years almost dispeopled and exceedingly
oppressed, was far r from abounding in Provisions, there being no Magazins in it,
insomuch that Sig Nicolao Maurocordato the late Hospodar affirms, that he was
put to his shifts last year to subsist the Body of Poles, which the Palatin of Kiovia
brought with him. Thus the Muscovite Army which had taken no measures for
maintaining their Communication and drawing supplies from Poland, came in a
short time to want Provisions, and at length to be reduced to very great Streights.
Tho' the Tartars soon began to infest them, I have heard of but one Convoy of 3 or
400 Carts intercepted by cl1them. They had a Detachment of about 8000 men abroad
under General Renne, w plunder'd and burnt Brail, a large Town on the Danube
a day after the Peace and hath since rejoined the Army. Before the Ottoman Army
came up to them, some say they had lost 5000 men, some say more by hunger and
siknesse and a great number of horses for want of Forrage or taken by the Tartars,
who hovered about them and continually surprized and attacked their Forragers. A
great part of the rest of their men were either sick or in a condition almost unfit
for doing service, so that besides the want of Provisions, they were not towards that
time able to make a Retreat thro' desert Frontiers before an Army of Turks and
Tartars, so that they resolved to expect them in their Camp, w** was pitched in a
narrow plain on the South side of the Pruth [i68«] with the river in their Rear, part
of the opposite Bank whereof was so high that it discovered them, as well as a Hill
near the Center of their Rear, where the river elbows out. Lesse then half the Camp
was parapetted, the rest being only covered with Chevaux de Frize. I do not find
that the Hill was much disputed by the Muscovites against a Body of Turks detached
by the Vizir in his March, nor that Canon or Mortars were ever planted upon it either
by the Muscovites or the Turks, as mentioned in the Relation, which I had the honour
to send your LordP in my last.
The Ottoman Army making a feinte of laying Bridges over the River, forded
itthin another place some hours distant from the Muscovite Camp in the night of the
8 past and early the morning following. Several Bodies of Muscovite Dragoons,
which were sent to oppose their passage, were charged by the Turkish Horse, and
forced to retire to their Camp, the Horse of Rumelia, chiefly the Albaneses and
Bosnacs distinguishing themselves in that action. The Army after several hours
march encamped in front of the Enemy without any Design of attacking his Camp
that day the 9 th past. In the evening a Janissary coming before the Vizir's Tents,
and crying out, shall we lye here to dye of sicknesse and misery ? Let all true
Mussulmen follow me to attack the Infidels, he snatched up one of the Colours, that
stood before the Tents, and went forwards. He was immediately followed by others,
who seized other Colours, and in this tumultous manner the Janissaries, Serdenghesti's
and Deli's x gathered together, [1686] and with their usual cries moved towards the
Enemy. The Vizir seeing this disorder and confusion, sent his Kehayah who was
discoursing with him when it happened, and from whom these particulars come, to
command them, there being neither any Pashaw nor the chief Officers of the Janis-
saries present with the Vizir at that time, nor afterwards in the Action. They were
repulsed three times with the losse of about 8000 men, and forced to retire to some
distance, where they cast up a Retrenchm*. And it is written me by a friend, who is
now in the Army, that he understood from Judicious persons, who were present and
saw the Action, that the Turks were certainly beaten, if the Muscovites had known
the Consternation they were in, and could have pursued their advantage by con-
tinuing their fire and sallying out of their Camp upon them. The next morning, when
the Turks began to play their Canon, the Czar sent out Officers with a white flag,
who were admitted to the Vizir, their proposals of Peace received, and all Hostilities
stopped. Upon their return to the Camp, the Czar sent out the Baron Shafirof and
the Young Szeremetof with whome all points were agreed that day and the morning
following. During the Messages, w ch passed between the Czar and the Vizir, and
all the time of Treaty the Janissaries passed to the Muscovite Camp with bread, Rice
and other Provisions, w ch being much wanted were well paid. After the Conclusion
of the Peace, the Vizir presented the Czar several. Re[i6o,a]freshments and Provisions
for his own use, 1200 Carts of Bread and Rice, 500 Okes of Coffee etc and two fine
Tents to Messrs Shafirof and Szeremetof, who remain as Hostages for the Execution
of the Peace with a Retinue of about 100 persons, and are very well treated.
'Tis said the Muscovites did not lose above 800 men in the Attacks; but the
sicknesse was so great among them, that there died 3 or 400 men daily. Their Army
retired on the 13 past Drums beating and Colours flying ; but was in so weak a
condition, that they could not march above two hours a day. The Tartars in-
commoding and attacking them even after the Peace, the Vizir appointed them two
Pashaws to conduct and secure them from insults in their March.
The King of Sueden upon the first advices he received of the Treaty, repaired
with all. possible Expedition to the Ottoman Camp, where'he arrived two hours after
the Czar's departure with his Army. He sent an Officer to acquaint the Tartar
Han of his approach, who went in person with a Body of Tartars to meet him, and
the Vizir, who was somewhat surprized at his coming, sent two Pashaws to com-
pliment him, and mounted on horseback with all his Court to receive his Majesty
before his Tents. The King passing by the Vizir without taking notice of him,
enter'd on horseback as far as the Tent of Reception, and being alighted and having
seated himself, He expostulated with the Vizir, reproaching him for having suffered
1
Deli, ' mad ' or ' wild ', a body of irregular troops, mainly Bosnians or Albanians by birth ;
they often served as the Vizier's bodyguard.
the Muscovites to withdraw with their [1696] Canon, Ammunition, Arms and Ensigns
of War, when they were in his power, and he might have made the Czar himself and
his whole Army Prisoners of War, and for not comprehending him in the Treaty of
Peace, contrary to the Sultan's Promises and Commands, and asking him how he
could answer it to his Master, telling him withall, that he advised him not to suffer the
Muscovites to repasse the Niester.1 The Vizir's Answer displeasing him, He left him
abruptly, without any entertainment in Refreshments and Presents after the way of
these Countries, and ordered Monsr Poniatowski to protest against the Peace,
whome the Vizir immediately forbad his Court, so that he followed his Suedish
Majesty to Bender.
The Vizir after this Interview having entirely broken with his Majesty, com-
mitted the care of all things relating to his Departure to the Tartar Han, who was
against the peace, and doth not hitherto observe it. There is advice from Bender
by one of the King of Sueden's Trabants,2 who left that place 13 daies ago, that the
Niester was so swelled by rains and the melting of the snow on the mountains of
Transilvania, that it had overflowed its bancks and obliged the King of Sueden to
remove his Camp. The Muscovites could not passe it at Raskow,3 and were forced
to march up towards Caminiec, the Turks still supplying them with Provisions.
The Tartars not being able to do much Dammage [170a] on this side the Niester
to the Muscovites, who were forced to fire upon them as often as they approached,
have passed that River at Bender, and have the Han's Order to oppose and obstruct
the passage of the Muscovites, the successe of whose Retreat Your Lords will sooner
know from other parts.
The Suedes have bestirred themselves here to discredit the Vizir, and overturn
the Peace, if it were possible, but with no other effect as far as I can perceive, then
*the disgusting and provoking the Turks, who seem universally well pleased with the
Peace in the manner it was concluded. Neverthelesse 'tis certain, that the Sultan
upon the Remonstrances of the Tartar Han shewed a Dislike of the Vizir's moder-
ation, and would have been willing that he should have carried things further, if the
opportunity had not been over. The Mufti and men of the Law, Ali Pasha, the
Sultan's favourite, and the Kislar Aga, as well as the Janissar Aga, as I am informed,
and the Officers of the Army, all favour the Vizir in excusing and supporting his
conduct, the later resenting very much his ill treatment by the King of Sueden. He
did not go to Bender, as he intended, but remained according to the last advices with
the Army upon the Pruth. The Troops return in great numbers, above 20,000 men
having already repassed the Danube by the Bridge at Isakgiah4 and great Companies
coming daily down by Sea in Saicks.
Yuruk Hassan Pashaw, who was departed to [170&] oversee the Demolition of
Camenchi and receive the Canon of that place, hath been recalled and appointed to
conduct the King of Sueden thro' Poland with the Horse of Rumelia, the Tartar Han
will send one of his sons to attend him with a numerous Body of Tartars. The Port
1 2
3
Dniester. Drdbanis, the body-guard of the Swedish king.
Raszkow, a town on the Dniester.
* Isakdji (Isaccea), a town on the southern shore of the Danube, where the bridges were
built to cross the river.
is impatient for his Majesty's departure, while the season is favourable, and all the
necessary dispositions are hastening for it.
A Venetian Bark some months ago laded goods designed for the Hattigi Sul-
tana * at Tripoli di Soria, of wch place her Husband is Pashaw, and being arrived in
the Archipelago in her way hither, there arose a quarrell between the Mariners and
the Turks Passengers, several of which last were killed in the fray. The Master and
seamen not daring afterwards to enter into any Turkish Port, landed the rest of the
Turks in the Island of Milo, and ran away with the Bark. The chMinisters of the Port
have continued since that time to demand satisfaction upon w the Venetian Bailo
endeavoured to gain time by promise to write to the Senate, that enquiry might be
made after the Bark and if it could be found out, the Master and Mariners be chastised2
and restitution made of the Goods. Some daies ago the Bailo visited the Caimacam
about this matter, who by the Sultan's order with very high Language required satis-
faction of him for the Cargo, wch the Turks value at fourty five thousand Dollars.
I am . . .

19 August 1711
My Lord
My last of the 10th instant acquainted Your Lop., that besides the Articles of
Peace contained in the Instrument, whereof I have had the honour-to transmit you
two Translations successively; the Czar had agreed by a separate Article to pay
hence forward the former usual Pension to the Tartar Han, which at his request to
save his honour, was not inserted in the Instrument. I also observed to your Lor3p,'
that the Vizir Azem accepted the Canon and Ammunition of Camenchi as an Equiva-
lent for the Artillery, which his Czarish Majesty had in his Camp. The design of the
Condition, that he shall not entertain any Minister resident at the Port, is, that he
shall in all occurrences addresse himself, as formerly, to the Tartar Han, who used
to represent what was necessary to the Port, and return the Answers accordingly.
The Muscovite Plenipotentiaries strove to avoid this last point: but the Vizir would
not desist from it, telling them he could do no lesse then refer it to the Sultan's
pleasure, who if he thought convenient, might release it, which 'tis believed he will
not do. The Turks avouch, as indeed it appears by the Treaty, that the Vizir's
intention [1716] was to put the Muscovites on the same foot on this side, as they were
in ancient times.
The Vizir demanded the person of Demetrio Cantemyr; but the Muscovites
assured him with Protestations that he had been missing two or 3 daies and was not
to be found in their Camp. And Osman Aga tells me, that the Plenipotentiaries
loaded him and all others, who invited them into Moldavia with many Maledictions.
While the Vizir lay with the Army on the Danube, the flux was so much among
1
2
Hatidje Sultan.
Kaymakam (Kaim-i makam), the title of the officer temporarily commissioned to act as
deputy at the court or in the capital in the absence of the Grand Vizier.
the Troops, that there daily died 3 or 400 men ; so that if the Czar had thought fit to
have staid on his own Frontiers, the Ottoman Army would have suffered and wasted
very much before they could have approached their Enemy. The Turks are very
sensible of that inconvenience, which is the chief ground of their aversion to a war
in those parts, and they cannot enough admire at the Czar's conduct in exposing his
Army to the same or worse hardships by advancing so far, continually repeating that
it was God's doing, who in his goodnesse and justice was pleased in a wonderfull
manner to subdue their Enemy and seeming really to look upon it as a miracle wrought
in their behalf.
Osman Aga saies, that the Muscovites on [172a] the approach of the Ottoman
Army endeavoured to possesse themselves of a Passe, which they had before
neglected ; but that they came too late ; and owns, that if they had seized the
Passe, the Turks would have been at a great losse, notwithstanding the ill con-
dition of the Enemy.
The Janissar Aga and other Officers of the Janissaries as well as the. Gebegi Bashi,
and in general allththe Officers chof the Infantry were in themAttack made on the Musco-
vite Camp the 9 past, in w they own to have lost y or 8m men upon the place
besides the wounded, and it was with the consent and concurrence of the Pashaws
and Officers of the Army, that the Vizir entered upon Treaty and concluded the
Peace.
The Muscovites having repassed the Niester towards Caminici, the Pashaws,
who conducted them, returned to the Army about 15 daies ago, and report that they
lost 500 or 600 men daily in their march.
The Turks are now expecting with great impatience the Execution of the Peace,
and I can assure Your LordP upon good grounds, that the Port is not without un-
easinesse and fears, that the Czar will decline it. A short time will shew whether
there be any reason for such apprehensions.
The Vizir about the end of last month wrote a disrespectfull Letter to the King
of Sueden,1 [1726] advertising him to prepare himself for his journy to his own
Dominions, where his presence was judged more necessary then in this Country ; That
the Port had been already at great Expences on his account, and is unwilling to
undergo such a burthen any longer, That tho' the Czar had obliged himself to let him
passe freely and without any hindrance, he the Vizir would send the Pashaw of
Salonichi, out of regard to his Dignity Royal, with a Body of Troops to attend and
conduct him. That this was the last offer, tlx and he advised his Majesty not to lose the
present opportunity by flattering himself w vain hopes of being able by his intrigues
to create another rupture between the Port and the Czar. They write from Bender,
that his Suedish Majesty very highly resented so uncivil a Treatment, and did not
forbear declaring, that he would move heaven and earth to procure the Vizir's disgrace.
The King of Sueden's Protestation against the Vizir's Proceeding did but exas-
perate that Minister without any good Effect. His Complaints and Remonstrances
arriving here 12 daies after the Muscovites had begun their Retreat were too late
1
The Turkish text and German translation of this and the later documents referred to
are given in A. N. Kurat und K. V. Zettersteen, TurkisHe Urkunden (Uppsala, 1938}, nos. v,
vi, vii.
to produce any alteration in his favour, the opportunity of obliging the Czar to any
more, then he had already agreed to, being then in all probability over, and the Turks
having gained by the Treaty all that they could well desire [173a] think they have
good reason to be satisfied without any regard to his Suedish Majesty's interests,
wch very evidently never bore any weight with them. Being therefore so far from the
thoughts of foregoing their own advantages for His Majesty's sake, that they are more
justly suspected to desire the continuation of the War between Sueden, Muscovy and
Poland, they gave no ear to whatever the Suedes could represent, but considered it
as an unreasonable attempt to imbroil the Port again with Muscovy for their own
ends. They are now using means to convince his Suedish Majesty, that the Sultan
is truly desirous, that he would return to his own Dominions without much delay,
for which purpose they offer him a Convoy of io m or i2 m Horse, besides Tartars and
to supply him with Provisions and all things necessary for himself, His attendance
and Troops as far as they shall conduct them. That Prince, who is at present quite
destitute of Mony, is plainly unwilling to depart while there may be any hope left of
engaging the Port to interest it self in his Affairs, either with relation to Poland or
Muscovy, and 'tis possible the Turks may so far comply with his inclination as not to
presse his departure too hard, 'till they be well assured of the Execution of the Peace.
They are likewise much perplexed about the means of carrying him safe thro' Poland,
some of those [1736] who are of their secret Counsels, inquiring whether the Poles
may not make opposition ? whether it be practicable to accompany him to his own
Territories, or whether they may not conduct him to some place of safety, whence he
may conveniently continue his march home ? So that it appears they have not yet
resolved what way to take. The Port hath obliged Monsr Funck the Suedes Envoy
to part hence by Post to the Army, under pretence that the Vizir had taken such an
aversion to Gen1 Poniatowski, that he would not admit him any more into his
presence ; and I am told he is to endeavour to settle a better correspondence between
his Master and the Vizir, that the Measures, which concern that Prince, may be more
fairly and conveniently concerted. I have sounded some of the Ministers, as far as I
could, to find their dispositions touching the Affairs of Poland. I cannot perceive
that they have any thoughts of concerning themselves therein : But they do not
judg it proper to declare their sentiments, about the acknowledgment of King
Augustus and the Admission of an Amb r from him 'till the King of Sueden be
departed, and the Vizir returned hither, besides that it can not certainly be foreseen
what may happen in the March of their Troops with the King of Sueden thro' Poland
to influence their behaviour towards that Kingdom. I have insinuated to them, that
they ought to explain themselves previously with the Poles, especially the Crown
General Seniauski, concerning their passage, as the best means to prevent incon-
veniences and disputes. I am . . .*
1
From ' I have sounded some of the Ministers ' to the end is in Sutton's hand.
1
[176a] ' Pera of Constantinople,
4 September 1711
My Lord
In my last of the 19 th past I had the honour to acquaint Your Lop that Monsr
Funck the Suedes Envoy was, at the instances of the Ministers of the Port, departed
for the Army, with the remainder whereof the Vizir hath been now for some time
returned to Isackgiah on the Danube, and was to endeavour to renew the corre-
spondence between the King his Master and the Vizir, which hath been entirely
broken off since their Interview immediately after the conclusion of the Peace,
which is now very well approved and liked in all particulars by the Sultan and the
whole Turkish Nation, notwithstanding all that hath been represented against the
Vizir's conduct, and the intrigues of his Suedish Majesty and the Tartar Han to imbroil
matters anew. The Vizir is supported not only by the Sultan his Master and his
Ministers, as well as the Men of the Law and the chief and best part of the people,
but by the Janissar Aga and all the Pashaws and Officers of the Army in general,
with whose advice and concurrence he acted, and he is now giving four paies to the
Troops, which will be very advantageous to the Officers of the Janissaries, who will
receive the whole and put in their own pockets the pay of those, that have been killed
in the field, or are dead of sicknesse or deserted. A few of the Vulgar only amuse
themselves with the reports, which the Suedes and Tartars have spread abroad, of
the Vizir's having received great sums of mony from the Czar in consideration of the
Peace and the kindnesse shewn him in favouring the safe Retreat of his Army.
The Pretence, with which they stop the Suedes mouths is, that their Law com-
mands them to give quarter to their Enemies, when they demand it and submit to
reason, to which they will hear of no reply. Neverthelesse 'tis certain, that the Sultan
and his Ministers and the chief men of the Law could have wished the Vizir had
made a better use of his advantage, and I am well informed, that not only their Law
is against the Vizir's Moderation in this point; but the Mufti's Fetfa or Sentence
was actually taken out to this Effect, that their Enemy ought to be cut off and
destroyed when he invades the Territories of the Ottoman Empire. But in the
present case it was too late to make use of it, the Muscovites having shewn them-
selves more dextrous and diligent in drawing themselves out of an ill passe, then they
were provident and carefull for preventing their falling into it. And it must be
owned they were not a little beholden to their good fortune in being attacked in their
Camp, the repulse they gave the Ottoman Forces having so much blunted the edg
of their courage, that they were as unwilling to renew the attack, and as forward to
part as the Muscovites themselves. Thus the opportunity of giving the Muscovites
worse treatment being over before other orders could be [1766] sent, the point of
sparing the Enemy stands good in the Mahometan Law, and the Peace in their
respect is very good (and perhaps never the worse for leaving the Suedes and Musco-
vites at War between themselves) provided it be executed, concerning which they
are now in great pain.
About a week ago a great Diwan was held in the Sultan's presence upon the
This letter is in Sutton's hand throughout.
arrival of a Capigi Bashi from the Vizir. The occasion of it, as I am informed, was,
that the Vizir having pressed the Czar, who was then refreshing his Army near
Caminiec to the speedy performance of the articles of Peace, instead of returning a
satisfactory answer, He had reproached the Port with the breach of the former
Treaty, adding that he could impute it to nothing so much as the instigations of the
King of Sueden, and 'till that stumbling-block should be removed, it was not reason-
able He should deliver up his strong Holds. 'Tis said likewise, that he detained the
Aga dispatched to him with about a hundred men. There is advice also by an
Officer returned from Assack, that the Governours of that place and Toganrog being
summoned to the Execution of the Treaty by vertue of the Czar their Master's orders
would know nothing of the matter, laughed at the Orders, and returned their answer
by the mouth of their Canon.
The Suedes and Tartars have newly communicated to the Ministers of the
Port a Memorial said to have been presented to the King of Sueden by the Cossacks
of the Boristhenes, dated the 29 th of July O.S. setting forth, that they had rejoyced
much to understand, that the Muscovites had been surrounded and reduced to such
a coridition as to force them to a Peace very advantageous to the Ottoman Empire,
by which they hoped to be freed from the Muscovite Yoke. That neverthelesse the
Muscovites of Camenchi and other neighbouring places, in contempt of the Treaty of
Peace, going down the Nieper in great numbers in Boats, and unawares attacking,
ransacking and plundering their Islands, had, besides a great Booty, carried men,
women and children away with them. Therefore they implored the protection of
His Majesty (in whome and the Tartar Han they placed all their hopes and confidence)
trusting that by his influence the Port would be prevailed on to compel the Muscovites
to redresse and repair this injury and dammage. committed directly contrary to the
Peace so lately concluded.
I do not find that the Port takes much notice of this action and infringement
of the Peace, the advantages [177a] whereof they are not willing to lose by any un-
seasonable Resentment, nor do the other Arguments used by the Suedes against
the Treaty meet with any ingression. The Turks seem resolved to use all the Dis-
simulation and other fair means possible to induce the Czar to the Execution of the
Peace, and if the Dispatch of the King of Sueden will procure their mutual satis-
faction, there is no doubt made but they will meet the Czar's desires in that particular,
it being the general opinion that the Vizir will not return with the Army 'till he hath
seen that Prince depart, the Turks having done enough already to shew that they
have no regard left for him or his interests, and being very evidently uneasy at his
longer stay in the Sultans Dominions, tho' they are much embarrassed how to save
their honour in some measure by conducting him into safety. Many believe that his
Seudish Majesty is as much perplexed on the other hand how to guard and secure
himself from treachery, and retire without danger, when the matter comes to that
passe. In the mean time 'tis certain that Prince is unprovided of mony ; neither is it
perceivable which way he can retire securely, if his Forces be shut up in Pomerania.
Your Lordship may please to remember, that I formerly acquainted you the
Vizir had expressed himself both to the Dutch Amb r and myself, as if the Port neither
approved of King Augustus nor Stanislaus, and expected a New Election. It is now
discovered, t h a t the French had at t h a t time flattered him with an imagination t h a t
the Crown General Seniauski might be chosen King of Poland, which would have
been much to the satisfaction of the people. I am . . .

1 October 1711
My Lord
About ten daies ago the Grand Sig r ' s Capigilar Kayasi came back from the Army
with the advice, that the Muscovites were razing Camenchi, wch hath been con-
firmed by the Frigats, Gallies and Galeots returned from Ozou, whither the Artillery
and Ammunition of that place were transported before their departure. The former
consisted of about 80 pieces of small Iron Canon carrying from six to 12 pound
Bulletts, and some small Mortar pieces. The Guns at the Seraglio point have been
fired on this occasion, and the people in general have expressed great joy and satis-
faction, this beginning of the Execution of the Peace having given them a better
confidence that the rest of the Treaty will be fairly fulfilled in due time, tho' many
among them doubt much of it.
The rough Answers of the Governours of Assac and Toganrog to those, who
carried them the Czar's Orders for the demolition and surrendry of those places,
having allarmed the Vizir, he sent for the Muscovite Hostages, and treated them
with very high and threatening language. They appeased him with excuses upon
the time requisite for the Evacuation of the places, and alledging the Example of the
Turks taking 7 or eight months for withdrawing the Inhabitants of Caminiec.and
their Effects and restoring that Fortresse, 1 and with assurances that the whole would
be faithfully performed, [1786] for the greater security whereof they entered into a
new engagem* by Hogiet or Publick Instrument, that the Demolitions should be
finished at Assac and Taganrog, and the former surrendred within 2 Months from the
date thereof. All this notwithstanding, I can assure your Lord? that the Governm*
still continues somewhat distrustfull of it, which must proceed from their natural
jealousy, their consciousnesse how burthersome and ruinous the continuation of the
War in those parts would be to them, and their fixed opinion of the Czar's power and
of the great importance of those places to him, the losse of which they think will not
only break all his supposed vast designs on that side, but lay his Country open to the
incursions of the Tartars.
The Vizir according to the last advices, remained with the Residence of the
Army, which is now reduced to a small number, near Cartal about 5 hours beyond the
Danube over against Isackgiah, whither he is supposed to have removed his Camp
before this time. He hath given the Troops but one pay, the other paies due being
deferred 'till their arrival at Adrianople or here. They have suffered much by the
rains and bad weather, which hath raised great murmurs among the Soldiery. Never-
thelesse 'tis believed He will not break up from Isakgiah before the end of this month,
1
An allusion to the belated delivery by the Turks to the Poles of the fortress of Kamieniec-
Podolsk, in conformity with the terms of the Treaty of Karlowitz (1699).
being very desirous to see the further Execution of the Peace before his return, and
lying under some umbrage and jealousy at the Muscovite Army's remaining beyond
Caminiec so near the Frontiers, The Muscovite Hostages send and receive frequent
Couriers.
That Minister hath put several affronts and indignities upon the King of Sueden.
iBt by writing him very disrespectfull letters to [179a] presse his departure. 2dly by
taking away the Guard appointed for the safety of his person. 3dly by intercepting
letters to and fro and strictly forbidding his correspondence both with this place and
Christendome, and lastly by causing his Druggerman Sigre Alessandro Ammira to be
seized, bound hand and foot, and carried to the Camp, and I do not yet hear what is
since become of him. That Prince having given his reasons for declining to passe
thro' Poland w th the small Body of Turkish Cavalry offered him by the Vizir and a
Body of Tartars, or rather represented the insuperable difficulties of it, the Vizir hath
some time ago dispatched Mons1 Fleischman the Imp 1 Resident's secretary, who by
his Order waited at Isackgiah with Letters from the Empresse Regent and Vice
President of the Council of War, to Vienna. His Errand hath not been communicated
to the Resident: but 'tis supposed to be to desire passage for the King of Sueden'
thro' the Austrian Dominions. In the mean time that Prince is not in a condition
to retire, being wholly destitute of mony. He hath pawned his Jewels to Jews at
Bender, and 'tis calculated that he and his Attendants are indebted there in about
the sum of 150,000 Dollars. He lately desired to borrow another sum of mony of the
Sultan, and accordingly sent his obligation hither : but no answer hath been returned
to that proposal. He now subsists upon an allowance of 500 Dollars per diem, which
are paid him from day to day by the Pashaw of Bender.
The Venetians here have taken an Allarm at the discourses of the people of a war
w th that Republick. There are hitherto no further grounds to fear it, then that the
Turks bear them a particular ill will accompanied with contempt, and will certainly
grow very insolent and haughty after the Execution of the Peace with Muscovy.
The Extreme partiality of the Venetian Bailo to the French and his intimacy with the
Emb r of that Crown, as well as certain practices, whereof I formerly [1796] gave
Your LorP an Account, administer occasion to several to suspect, that they will unite
their endeavours to imbroil the Port w th the Court of Vienna, especially if the Bailo
should flatter himself by those means to divert a War with the Republick.
Since the writing what is above I have been assured, that the Vizir had ordered
1000 Carts and 150,000 Dollars for providing the other things necessary for the King
of Sueden's journey, and Dollars 100,000 more to be paid to the Purveyor of victuals,
to be made use of, as there might be occasion : but his Maj*y refuses to depart, and is
said to be building a House for himself and making other preparations for passing the
Winter at Bender.
The Gr. Sigr is uneasy and dissatisfied, and a great part of the people so diffident
of the Execution of the Peace, that, if the Vizir should return before the accomplishm*
thereof, 'tis apprehended he will hardly be able to prevent his own ruine and that of
his chief creatures, if no other disorders happen, the heads of the Army being united
and concurring with him and the Soldiery being discontented and mutinous.
The accounts I have already given Your LordP of the passages of this Campaign
between the Muscovites and Turks being very defective, and in some particulars
erroneous, under the uncertainty whether your LordP will be truly informed of what
passed by other hands, I beg leave to annex the account I have since received from
persons, who were either upon the place or had better opportunities to inquire into the
truth of all matters, and whose credit and veracity may, I believe, be relyed on.
I am . . .
[189a] [Enclosure]
A Relation of the Turkish Victory over
the Muscovites in July 1711.
The Czar advanced into Moldavia with a very slender stock of Provisions relying
upon the Invitations and promises of Demetrio Kantemyr, late Hospodar of that
Province and others, who were either carryed away with their fond zeal or considered
their own ill circumstances more then his interest. 'Tis suspected upon probable
grounds that the Prince of Wallachia, who hath for several years kept a great cor-
respondence with him, gave him hopes of assistance. But whether that Prince did
really give the Czar encouragement, or his Majesty only flatter'd himself with his
affection to his service, 'tis certain that he not only failed him, but gave the Turks
underhand intelligences very prejudicial to the Czar's affairs, whereby he hath much
ingratiated himself with the Port. 'Tis amazing, that the Czar, who could not but
know the miserable condition of Moldavia, very far from being able to subsist a great
Army, should so unwarily enter into that Country, where he soon began to want
Provisions so much, that the Prisoners taken by the Tartars were half starved. The
Turks had so great a respect and awe for the Muscovites that the Vizir had received
repeated advices of the wretched condition of their Army, he could not be prevailed
on to passe the Danube, notwithstanding the continual and earnest instances of the
Suedes, 'till the very last of the Asia Horse was come up to him. When he was over
the River, he advanced very slowly and was difficultly persuaded to march up to the
Enemy who on the other hand was too secure under a conceit that either the Turks
were not in a condition and readinesse to leave the Danube, or were afraid to [189&]
approach him and had detached a Body of about 14,000 men under General Renne
towards that River, who took and sacked Braila,1 the day after the Action. It was
still very strange, but certain that the Czar had no intelligence of the Turks approach,
and having taken no care to post himself advantageously or secure the passages of
the Pruth, was much surprised to see them come upon him unawares. In those cir-
cumstances he marched with the best diligence he was able up the River, endeavouring
to possess himself of a very strong post: but his Troops were so much weakened with
sicknesse and want of Provisions, that they were forced to encamp two or three
hours short of it on the 8 th of July. That night the Turks having made a feint of
passing the Pruth, laid a Bridge of Boats over the River in another place 3 or 4 hours
below his Camp and passed their whole Army with great Expedition. Two or
3 separate Bodies of Muscovite Dragons, who, 'tis believed had orders to oppose or
obstruct the Enemy's passage, seeing their army on the other side the River and in
1
Ibrail (Braila), a town on the Danube.
F
march early in the morning, retired in good order, the Turkish Horse, which fell
upon their Rear, having never broke them or done them any considerable dammage.
The Czar's Camp lay in a pleasant narrow plain in a triangular form whereof the
River, which elbows out in that place, made the side of his Rear. They had had
time to retrench about one third of it on the left from the River towards the Angle of
their Front, the rest being only covered with Chevaux de Frise. The Ottoman army
came and pitched before them on the 9th afternoon, and orders were given [190a]
for intrenching themselves that evening. But the Serdengestis and Janissaries
tumultuously gathering together resolved to attack immediately, hand their officers
were forced to follow the current. As often as they advanced, w° was three times,
upon the discharges of the Muscovites, which were alwaies made at too great a
distance, they ran back in disorder, and their confusion and consternation was so
great after the 3d repulse, that there is all reason in the world to believe they would
have fled without any resistence if the Muscovites had sallied out upon them. The
Janissar Aga1 and other Officers did all, that lay in their power, to carry them on
again, but to no purpose. So the Muscovite fire ceasing, they retrenched themselves
in the night. The Muscovite Soldiery, which were disheartened by their sufferings,
were likewise surprised at the great appearance of the Turkish Camp, tho' it be
confessed and certain that their Infantry did not amount 40,000 and (as it affirmed)
discovered a great fear and unwillingnesse to defend themselves, besides w0*1 their
Camp was surrounded by number of Tartars together wth the Poles and Cossacks
under the Palatin of Kiovia and Orlick, and commanded by several Emin-
ences, whence the Turks might have canonaded them with their numerous artillery.
In these circumstances, and the extreme want of bread and other Provisions and
Forrage, the Czar thought fit to enter into Treaty, and accordingly the morning follow-
ing sent out two or 3 several Trumpets with Officers, who were admitted to the Vizir,
both sides being almost equally afraid the one of [1906] the other. After the return
of these Officers with the Vizir's consent to treat, the Czar sent the Baron Saffirof
his Vice Chancellour and Michael Bori(so)vitz Velt-Marshall Szeremetof's Grandson
with his full power, who without difficulty yielded to almost all that the Vizir desired,
and so the peace was soon concluded in the form and manner I have already
acquainted you. The proposal of a Treaty was no sooner accepted then the Janis-
saries ran freely to the Muscovite Camp to sell such Provisions as they had, and after
the conclusion of it the Muscovite Army marched away with colours flying, Drums
beating etc. The Turks esteeming it for their honour to make the Action appear
considerable, have given out the Losse to be great on both sides, but it is evident and
undeniable truth, that there were not above 2000 or 3000 men at most killed, h
the Muscovites are thought to have lost 3 or 400 and the Turks the rest.
1
Yusuf Pasha.

24 October 1711
My Lord
I had the honour on the first current to acq* your Lords what occurred 'till that
time, since which we have received certain and repeated advices, that a great Body of
Calmuck Tartars * had invaded the Country inhabited by the Nogay Tartars near
Crimea, taken and sacked their Towns and Villages, and put all the people they found
to the sword. On the other hand, one of the Tartar Han's sons hath surprised and
taken about 1500 Muscovites; said to be Inhabitants retiring from Assac. A
Muscovite Officer with about 30 persons in his Retinue arrived lately at the Camp
to complain of this Violation of the Treaty of Peace and sue for Redresse. The Vizir
treated him very civilly and promised the restitution of the Captives, but detained
him and his Company, designing to bring them hither together wth the Hostages.
On the 4 th instant 17 ships of war and Frigats entred into Port, being then but
eight daies wanting from the Streight of Crimea, since which time the Gallies and the
greatest part of the Half-Gallies are likewise come in. Upon their arrival reports
were spread abroad, that the Muscovites were evacuating Assac and Taganrog, and
had already blown up a part of the Fortifications of the later : but after narrow in-
quiry it is found, that they have no knowledg of that matter, and only affirm that the
Capitan Pashaw was gone to [1826] Assac with 4 Frigats and 2 Gallies. Great and
general complaints have been made against that Officer, and 'tis said with appearance
enough of truth, that the Sultan hath sent for his head, a Capigi Bashi having been
dispatched 5 daies ago on a Saikia into the Black Sea.
The Fleet hath suffered very much by the flux, the ships having lost, propor-
tionably to their sizes 40, 50 or 60 men a piece, and the Crews of the small craft were
grown so thin by sicknesse or desertion that few of them had above six or 8 men
remaining, so that they were forced to draw the Cangiabashes and Fregattines ashore
and leave them at the Castle of Kersi.2
The Troops murmuring at the hardships they endured by reason of the falling
rains and cold, the Vizir broke up with the Residue of the Army from Isackgiah in
the beginning of this Month. 'Tis supposed he arrived the 21 st instant at Adrianople,
where he is to deliver one pay to the soldiery wch was sent thither about 10 daies ago,
and after having kept the Bairam there, wch begins on the last day of this month, we
shall expect his arrival here in about eight daies inarch, and 'tis not doubted but he
will make a triumphant Entry.
The term, within which the Muscovite Hostages engaged for the Evacuation and
Demolition of Taganrog and the surrendry of Assac, expires about this time. They
continue assuring the Vizir that the full Execution of the peace will be faithfully
performed, and [183a] that Minister hath not only flatter'd himself therewith, but
hath lately given the Port great hopes of speedy satisfaction in that particular.
1
Kalmucks, a nomad people of Mongol origin, who occupied the steppes between the lower
Volga and the Kuban in the middle of the seventeenth century.
* Kertch.
The Turks in general appear now to be persuaded of it, but I have certain knowledg
that the Government remains very uneasy and jealous of a Disappointment.
The Vizir lately made Talkish or Representation to the Sultan of the difficulties,
that occur in conducting the King of Sueden thro' Poland by reason of the Polish
and Saxon Troops, which his Convoy might incounter in their Route, and desired to
know His Highnesse's pleasure, How his Troops were to behave themselves in case
of Opposition. The Sultan fell into some passion against the Vizir for asking Instruc-
tions in that respect so late, saying he wondred much that the Vizir should have
remained so long with his army on the frontiers without settling that matter. 'Tis
said that on that occasion the Sultan sent him a Hattesheriffe or Order under his own
hand to dispatch the King of Sueden, without explaining himself about the Route or
manner of conducting him.
Monsr Perman the Suedes Secretary hath given me Assurances, which I believe
may be credited, that his Suedish Majesty had lately thoughts of retiring, and
accordingly 'tis certain that he sent Orders and Instructions hither to negotiate
mony, which did not succeed. What that Prince's true Intentions were can be only
conjectur'd. The difficulties of passing thro' Poland are so great, that it seemeth
impracticable, and the undertaking it at this time [1836] would rather be the most
probable means to breed new quarrells and imbroils. On the other side His Majesty
having about him 4 or 5000 men Suedes, Poles and Cossacks, we here know of no
measures he hath taken for retiring with such an attendance through the Austrian
Dominions, to which he hath hitherto shewn an Aversion. Besides, He is not in a
condition to remove without great assistance from the Port. He and his Retinue are
esteemed to owe about 150,000 Dollars at Bender, his Jewells are pawned to Jews,
and he is now quite destitute of mony or Credit. Moreover his affairs at the Port
begin to have a better face then they had lately. Monsr Funck hath found means to
renew a correspondence between that Prince and the Vizir Azem, and I have seen a
letter from him, wherein he assures, that the Vizir is in a very favourable disposition
and begins to take his Mafy's interests to heart. 'Tis certain that the Palatin of
Kiovia and Monsr Tarlo were with the Vizir for some time before he left the Danube
and I presume it to be beyond doubt, that they are now using all their art to engage
the Port in some measures relating to the Affairs of Poland. The Muscovite Hostages,
who are apparently jealoys of this Negotiation and the King of Sueden's intrigues
with the Tartar Han, presse the Vizir very hard to dispatch His Majesty away. On
the other side the Venetians, who are conscious of the general inclination of the
Turkish Soldiery and people to enter into a war with them for the Recovery of the
Morea, apprehend nothing more then a peaceable composition of the Port's concerns
with its northern Neighbours.
25. Sutton to Dartmouth.1
24 October 1711
This moment a Janissary is returned from Bender, by whome I have no letters
from Mr Jefferyes : but Your Lorp will see by the inclosed Extracts of those I have
1
This letter, and the two enclosures, are in Sutton's own hand.
received from other hands, what assaults the King of Sueden has sustained and
overcome. It is confirmed to me, that the Sultan sent a Hattesheriffe eight or ten
daies ago to the Vizir relating to the King of Sueden's departure : but as the precise
tenour of it is not known, 'tis impossible to judg of the effect it will have. Since
that Prince has born the brunt of all the Vizir's rude attacks, I incline to believe
he will be able to surmount this Order, or at least elude it and gain further time.
Monsr Funck, as your Lorp will observe by one of the inclosed Extracts, hath
for some time been kept in close arrest, and does not yet enjoy his full liberty.
The Tartar Han comes with the Vizir, who is said to linger in his March in
expectation of good news from Assac. If that place be not speedily surrendred,
we cannot fail of seeing great confusion among these people and changes at the
Port.
Monsr Bonkowski the Polish Minister, who was delivered to the King of Sueden
before the Action on the Pruth, and released by that Prince after the Peace, comes
likewise with the Vizir in Custody. I have nothing further to increase Your Lorp's
trouble by this conveyance but the assurances of the great respect wherewith I
have the honour to be . . .
[180a] [Enclosure A]
Extrait d'une Lettre dattt'e a Bender-
le 5 e Octobre 1711.
Les affaires de Bender changent de face a tout moment. Quelques jours apre
le depart de Monsieur de la Motraye * (c'est a savoir le 22e d'aoust V.S.) le Grand
Vizir ayant fait presser le Roy sur son depart, Ton convint apres bien des contestations
qu'on donneroit au Roy une Escorte de 8 ou 10,000 Spahis et tous lesTartares de
Budziac avec l'argent quil auroit besoin. Le Roy ayant demande la-dessus 600,000
ecus, le Grand Vizir trouva cette somme si exorbitante que non seulement il recut
assez mal Monsr Funck, mais qu' encore il pressa de nouveau le Roy sur son depart
d'une maniere fort peut civile. On luy fit reponse que le Roy demandoit cette somme
a emprunter a la Porte, et qu'elle seroit rendue exactement; que si elle ne vouloit
point le faire, qu'il ne feroit pas un pas avant que son argent fut venu de Vienne.
Le Selam Agasi etant revenu la-dessus avec des menaces, le Roy ne voulut pas le
voir ni luy ni les Pachas, et leur fit savoir, qu'il feroit feu sur le premier Turcq qui
voudroit le forcer. Quelques jours apres le Capigi Bachi arriva pour luy oter le
Tahin [1806] (c'est la pension ou appointement que la Porte luy fait donner pour la
subsistance) mais tout cela n'aiant servi de rien, le Grand Vizir a chante sur un autre
ton, aiant ecrit une Lettre fort obligeante au Roy, et luy ayant fait faire quantite
de protestations et d'excuses avec offre de luy faire rendre le Tahin, que le Roy
a refuse, du moins jusqu'a present. V.E. decouvrira peutetre mieux a Constantinople
que nous icy la raison de ce changement. Ce qu' il y a de certain est, que tout autre
homme, et meme tout autre Roy seroit parti, mais que selon les apparences le Roy
de Suede passera encore en Turquie une partie de l'Hyver.
1
French traveller and merchant, author of Travels through Europe, Asia, and into parts of
Africa (i6g6) (3 vols., London, 1732).
[1806] [Enclosure B]
Extract of a Letter from Bender dated
the 4 th of Octr O.S. 1711.
The Grand Vizir has been very hard upon the Suedes, having sent a positive
order to the King to depart. His Majesty answer'd He would not acknowledg
any order from the Vizir, and that besides he neither would nor could go away
without mony, and was expecting some from his own Kingdome, which having
received he should know what measures to take, and the most [181a] proper time
and way for his departure. When the Vizir's Messenger returned with great noise,
his Majesty ordered his Troops to encamp before his Tent, and fire at any Turk
that should offer any force or violence, and signified as much to the Messengers and
Pashaws, which being reported to the Vizir, another Officer was sent with order
to the Pashaw to take away the daily Tahin from the Court, all which was in vain.
The scene seems to have changed since yesterday, when the Pashaw paid a visit
to the King and assured him from the Vizir that the Jus Gentium should not be
violated, and he may depart when he thinks convenient. They say the Tahin will
be restored. Monsr Funck writes to the Court, that not only the Kehayah, but the
Vizir himself begins to be very kind to him, and (to use his own Terms) caresse
him, and that he enjoys the liberty (taken from him before) of speaking with every
body. The Druggerman, that was kept in prison at Ozou, is in great hopes of
being set free in a few daies, as he writes to the Court.

8 November 1711
My Lord
The last time I troubled Your LordP was on the 24 past. The 2d instant we
were surprized with the unexpected arrival of the Capitan Pashaw in the Bosphorus
after a quick passage from Taganrog, where he hath purchased 4 ships of the Musco-
vites, viz* twoo of 50 Guns, wch came in with him, and 2 Frigats, wch were left at
Sea and are supposed to be already entred into the Bosphorus. The price agreed
upon for the 4 ships equipped and armed is 36,000 Ducats, to receive wch sum the
Muscovites have sent one Captn Simpson a Scotch man with 5 or 6 more of Her
Maj^' 8 subjects in his Company, who are all kept very close on board one of the
Ships, the Turks being exceedingly jealous of letting them be seen or discourse
with any body, and not permitting the Ships to come yet into Port. However
I have found means to inquire of Captn Simpson in what condition and posture he
left things in those parts, and have received from him the following acco4 thereof.
That the Muscovites are carrying away the Canon, ammunition and stores from
Taganrog, as fast as possible, having already before his departure loaden and trans-
ported part of the same on 400 Vessels carrying about 60 Tuns each, and then waiting
the return of the sd Vessels to send away the remainder. That there are 19 Mines
prepared to blow up the Fortifications of that place, and ready to be sprung at the
h th
Expirations of the term agreed upon, w° he saies falls on the 20 of [1856] next
month. That there remain in that Port 4 ships from 30 to 60 Guns w011 are rotten
and unfit for service, and will be burnt when the Muscovites retire. That the Fort
called Petroski 1 situate in an Island of the Don over against Assac was demolished in
the beginning of Septr past. That the greatest part of the Canon, Ammunition
and Stores, and all the Inhabitants of Assac were already removed to Tzirkasky,2
a strong place about 50 English miles higher upon the River. And that all the
new works added to Assac, since it hath been in the Czar's possession, were under-
mined and ready to be blown up, when the term should elapse, which he saies was
on the 19th of last month. But he affirms that no Fort, Castle nor any part of
either Taganrog or Assac hath hitherto been surrendred to the Turks, contrary to
what is confidently reported here, and written from the Army, where one of the
Capitn Pashaw's servants was arrived, whome he dispatched from Taganrog. 'Tis
believed he hath made his Peace with the Sultan by bringing down the Muscovites
ships and the good news of the Dispositions already made for the surrendry of Assac,
w°b being spread abroad with good improvemts among the people rejoyces them
exceedingly, the greatest part believing Assac to be already in the possession of Ivas
Pashaw, and those who do not credit the report of the actual surrendry of the Place,
now doubting no more but it will follow in due time.
The Vizir who arrived at Adrianople the 21 t h past, remains still there, but he is
expected here suddenly [186a] with the army, tho' the precise time of his departure
thence is not known. 'Tis said the Tartar Han was desirous to come forward ; but
the Vizir thought fit to detain him 'till he comes himself.
In my last I had the honr to acquaint your LordP that the Vizir had changed
his behaviour towards the King of Sueden, and began to shew himself more favourably
disposed in his respect. I am now to add that 'tis the Sultan's pleasure likewise,
that that Prince be treated with more civility, and tho' his Highriesse is desirous
of his departure, I do not believe they will presse him to it any more, but rather
let him take his own time, and possibly his own measures too ; for the Poles having
refused to let him passe with more then his own attendance, and the Turks not
knowing nor being able to resolve whither arid which way to conduct him, besides
that he hath rejected all the Offers made him for that purpose, 'tis most probable
he will be forced at length to passe thro' the Emperour's Dominions, if the Peace
be executed and all matters remain settled with the Czar.
The people already begin to talk of a war wth the Venetians, and there is evidently
a great propension to it in the soldiery and the Navy, w°h much allarms the Venetians,
tho' there be yet no other grounds of fear. After the full Execution of the Treaty
with Muscovy and the Vizir's arrival we shall be better able to discover whether
the Port inclines to a war with the Republick or not.
[1866]
My Lord 3
It was by the Vizir's Order that the Capitan Pashaw bought the forementioned
Muscovite Ships, the two lesse whereof are not yet come in. The Gr. Sigr hath
1 2 3
Fort Petrovski. Tcherkassy. This letter is in Sutton's own hand.
been incognito to view the two larger, and refuses to take them, at least at the
price agreed on, whereby his displeasure appears against the Capitan Pashaw,
and even the Vizir himself, whome they say he suspects to have endeavoured by
several arts to impose a belief upon him, that the Treaty of Peace was executed
farther then it is in reality. 'Tis supposed His Highnesse expects they should
present him the Ships to appease him. I am . . .
[187a] [Enclosure]
Copy of S r Rob* Sutton's Memorial to the R* honoble the L d visct
Stanhope the humble Memorial of S r R. Sutton.
Sheweth
That being appointed Ambassador Plenipotentiary and Mediator from his
Majesty to treat of a Peace between the Emperour of Germany and the Grand
Seignr he is allowed no more for his equipage and salary than what Ambassador's
Residentary have been allowed and cannot yet obtain a Warr* for a service of Plate
which is given to all other Ambassadors except to that to the Porte.
That as he shall be at the Congress with the Imperiall, Turkish, Polish and
Venetian Ambassadors his equipage will very much exceed the ordinary Allowance
in several Articles, particularly from his being obliged to furnish himself with tents
for his Retinue.
Besides that the scarcity of Provisions will render it impossible from their
excessive dearness for him to support his Majesties honour with the Appointments
of an Ambassador in ordinary [i88«] and submitting further to your Lordship
consideration that all the expence of the Mediation will probably fall upon him from
Mr. Stanyan 1 being appointed to reside where the Grand Seignor shall be who hath
not only the same allowance from his Majesty as Mediator that he (Sr Rob* Sutton)
hath, but also the allowance of the Levant Company with their presents.
For these reasons as well as for the zeal and readiness he hath shewn in his
Majesties service without regard to his private Affairs, he hopes he may obtain
His Majesties wan 4 for a service of Plate, as Ambassador, Plenipotentiary and
Mediator, and such other Additiones of equipage salary and extraordinary as hath
been Allowed to any heretofore at any time or in any place, in those Characters,
who have been most favoured.

[191a] • Pera of Constantinople,
21 November 1711
My Lord
The last w ch I had the honour to write Your LordP under the 8th instant, went
by an Imperial Courier, and the late Vizir Azem Mehmet Pasha being deposed the day
following at Adrianople and the seal given to Isuf Pashaw then Janissar Aga, Your
Lord p will have been already informed of that change from Vienna. I have only
1
Abraham Stanyan, afterwards British ambassador at Constantinople.
to add that the late Vizir's creatures
2
and confidents viz* Omer Effendi
3
his Mecktubgi,41
Backee Effendi Chiausler Kiatibi, Hussein Aga Spahiler Agasi, and his Talkisgi
were at the same time cast into prison, and the Vizir himself put into the hands of
the Bostangi Bashi.5 Three daies after Osman Aga, who was his Kehaya during the
Campaign and at the conclusion of the Peace, was imprisoned here. It is believed
that none of them will be punished with losse of life, but only by draining their
purses. Those who are in greatest credit with the Sultan at present, are the Mufti,
Ali Pashaw his Highnesse's Son in Law and favourite and the Kislar Aga. The two
former and the Tartar Han were the chief authors of the late Vizir's deposition, and
the choice of the new Vizir is certainly owing to the Mufti and Ali Pashaw. The
promoters of this change have all their particular reasons for it; but that, wch carried
the greatest weight with the Sultan, is said to be the late Vizir's delaying his March
so long, being unwilling to return hither before the surrendry of Assac, contrary
to his Highnesse's [1916] desires. This delay raised great murmurs among the
soldiery, who suffered much thereby, and gave the Sultan who is naturally very
timid and suspicious, a jealousy that the late Vizir was taking dangerous measures
for his own safety, in case the Treaty of Peace should not be duely executed ; besides
which his conduct in general hath been disapproved and censured, and not only by
the soldiery and people had imbibed an opinion, that the Muscovites had bribed
him with a large sum of mony, but the Sultan himself is said to have received the
same umbrage, and so upon the whole his Highnesse was without much difficulty
prevailed upon to condemn and resent his behaviour, and content the Janissaries
by the advancement of their Aga to the post of Prime Vizir, almost all people in
this place applauding such changes, either out of a dislike and hatred to the former
Ministry or hopes to better their own fortune and condition.
The Janissaries arrived the 17th instant, and the New Vizir made his Entry
yesterday without much pomp. The Tartar Han remains some daies march behind,
being to be entertained abroad with a feast, and conducted into Town by the Vizir,
according to Custome.
The Muscovite Hostages came yesterday to the quarters assigned them in the
City, and are very well treated the new Vizir having assured them by their Drugger-
man, that the deposition of his Predecessor, wch the Gr. Sigr had judged requisite
for his own interest, had no relation to their affairs. Nevertheless [192a] I under-
stand they are not a little alarmed at it, imagining probably that the credit of the
Mufti and Tartar Han cannot but be prejudicial to their Master's concerns. I
conceive there is little doubt but the Turks will continue using all fair means to
engage the Muscovites to the surrendry of Assac, and in the mean time dissemble
their further Designs. It hath been confidently reported, that the New Vizir hath
already threatened the Hostages to send them to the Seven Towers, if the Czar
1
J
Mektubdju, title of the Chief Secretary of the Grand Vizier.
3
Tchavushlar kdtibi, the Secretary of the Corps of Janissaries.
Sipahiler Agasi, the General commanding the Sipahis (Cavalry) ; at this time Huseyin
Aga, 4brother of Osman Aga, the Kahya of Baltadji Mehmed Pasha.
6
Telkhisdji, reporter.
Bostandji bashi, here the governor of Adrianople.
did not speedily deliver up that place and entirely evacuate Poland; but upon a
strict inquiry I find that assertion to be groundlesse. If any alterations happen
hereafter in the Councils and measures of the Port, as soon as they come to my
knowledg I will acq* Your LordP thereof by the first opportunity.
The new Vizir refused Monsr Funck the Suedish Envoy leave to proceed hither
before himself. That Minister was put into chains for one whole day by Order of
the late Vizir, and afterwards kept as a Prisoner in the custody of the Muxur Aga
Captn of his Guard of Janissaries, 'till at length finding he could not fright the
K. of Sueden into a compliance with his desires, and that it was the Sultan's pleasure
he should treat that Prince with more humanity and civility, he allowed his Envoy
the liberty of making use of his own Tents in their March, but always under some
restraint, and strictly observed, that he might hold no cor[io,2&]respondence with
any body at this place.
'Tis generally believed the Prime Vizir will not enjoy his post long, and 'tis
assured by good hands that the Sultan hath sent for Hassan Pashaw his Brother
in Law, who is now Pashaw of Tripoli di Soria.
There is yet no Janissar Aga made in the room of the New Vizir. I am . . .

20 December 1711
My Lord
My last was of the 21 st past, since which I have not found any opportunity to
inform your Lords? what passed here, and the warning I have of this present con-
veyance is so short, that I am very much abridged of time.
About a fortnight ago the Muscovite Hostages and plenipotentiaries were called
to a Conference with the Vizir Azem,1 and the day following to a great Divan, held
in the said Vizir's House, at which were present all the Vizirs of the Bench, the
Tartar Han, the present and late Mufti, the present Cadileskiers of Rumelia and
Anatolia, and all those who have already been Cadileskiers, and the Heads of the
Soldiery. The difficulties, which the Hostages required to be removed before the
surrendry of Assac and the Demolition of Taganrog, raised great passion in some
of the Assembly and much increased the jealousies and distrusts. I shall specify
them hereunder. Captn Simpson and the other Officers and seamen of the 4 Musco-
vite Ships, which remain in the Bosphorus, were about the same time sent to the
Hostages Quarters, and Turks put on board the Ships to take care of them.
On the 14th instant afternoon Osman Aga, who was the late Vizir Azem's Kehayah
at the conclusion of the Peace, and Omer Effendi the sd Vizir's Mectupgi were
beheaded before the great Gate of the Seraglio, where their Bodies lay exposed 'till
the next evening. Their death is chiefly imputed to the Resentments of the Tartar
Han, who departed [2146] the day following, being conducted out of Town by the
Prime Vizir and entertained abroad according to Custome.
1 Yusuf Pasha.
About the same time the Capitan Pashaw was deposed and imprisoned and
the Bostangi Pasha made Vizir of the Bench and Capitan Pashaw.
On the 14th instant before noon the Muscovite Hostages and Plenipotentiaries,
with the participation and leave of the Port, sent the Secret^ of their Embassy to
me and the Dutch Embr with Letters intreating us to passe Our good offices in the
diffirencesd between the Port and the Czar their Master and to hand or communicate
to the s Port their Proposals for adjusting the said Differences, procuring the
Execution of the Treaty of Peace, and preventing the Effusion of Blood in a war,
which they apprehended to be ready to break out anew, without a very speedy remedy.
The next morning the same message was1 repeated with2 more pressing instances in
the same manner, the Chiaoux Emini, a Tchorbagi and several other Turks,
some whereof understood the Italian language in wch we spake, being dpresent both
times. The Offers of the Muscovite Plenipotentiaries, who by their s Secry com-
municated their full power to us, are i° To cause Assac to be surrendred in ten
daies time after the arrival of two Messengers to be dispatched together, one by the
Port and the other on their part, and Taganrog to be demolished within the space
of 20 daies after the surrendry of [215a] Assac. 20 To leave and cede to the Tartar
Han all those Cossacks who have taken refuge with him, and are now actually under
his Protection and in his possession, and to restore to the King and Republick of
Poland, all those Cossacks and places inhabited by Cossacks, which conformable
to the Treaties between the Czar and the sd King and Repub(lick) of Poland do
belong to the later, namely Bialacerkiev, Nemiroff, Polonoff and other places, and to
evacuate and abandon Cekrin, withdrawing the Inhabitants of this last place and
district into Ucraina, pursuant to the Treaties with Poland. 3 0 To cause all the
Muscovite Forces to retire out of these parts of Poland within the term of one month,
and they offer further to engage that the Czar shall retire his Troops out of Prussia
and those parts in the month of April next, declaring that they have no immediate
power at present to cause these last Troops to retire, the Generals who command
the same having no Order to follow their directions, and that therefore they must
first give part to the Czar their Master of what they shall have agreed in that point.
On the other hand the Plenipotentiaries insist on the following particulars to
be granted and performed on the part of the Port previously to the Execution of
the preceding Engagements and promises. i° That the0 Port shall send the King
of Sueden away out of the [2156] Sultan's Dominions. 2 That the Port shall deliver
them an act explaining the article relating to the Cossacks, and declaring that the
sd Port is content and satisfied with the execution of that Article in the manner
above mentioned, and hath no further Pretension concerning the rest of Ucraina
and the Cossacks subject to his Czarish Maj^. 30 That in case the King of Sueden,
after his passage into Germany, shall again enter into Poland, the Czar's Forces
may then have liberty to return into that Kingdome, and the Port shall no waies
oppose or find fault with the same.
These are the overtures and proposals of the Muscovite Plenipotrles which
have not yet been reduced into form or couched in writing, and are the very same,
1
Tchavush Emini, a high officer of Tchavushes (gatekeepers).
2
Tchorbadji, an officer of the Janissaries.
which they made in the great Divan abovementioned. The Port having likewise
patricipation and knowledg of their addressing themselves to my self and the Dutch
Emb r and of all that passed on that occasion, we judged we could do no lesse then
impart the Proposals by word of mouth to the Vizir Azem, which was undoubtedly
expected from us. This and such other Offices, as we can modestly passe, without
giving any just offence to any Body, we esteemed to be entirely conformable to
our former Orders, whereof the Dutch Embassad r hath three very ample and positive,
tho' we have no special Order for this occasion, neither in appea-[2i6«]rance will
the time permit us to receive any, wherefore we shall proceed with all due reserve
and caution.
I must beg leave to lay before your Lord? the several Motives, which the rather
induce me to intervene in this Negotiation. The Ministers, whome the King of
Sueden imploys here, viz* Monsr Funck his Envoy and Gen1 Poniatowski, as well
as Monsr Grotthuss * his chief favourite at Bender, are most notoriously in the French
interest. The last keeps a constant correspondence with Monsr Desalleurs the
French Emb r in Cypher, and the two later are daily in conference with the sd Emb r
and in all things act in concert with him, the Venetian Bailo joyning w th them in
all their intrigues to kindle again the war on the northern side. Monsr Poniatowski,
who hath been here for about 3 weeks, hath not so much as visited me or the Dutch
Emb r as he used to do formerly, which denotes a great estrangement from us. I have
good intelligence, and have lately understood from the mouth of Monsr Funck him-
self, that his Suedish Majesty hath taken great exceptions against Her Majesty, and
entertains still greater resentments against the States General, and even against
all those who were concerned in the Act of Neutrality passed at the Hague,2 or did
not perform their Guaranty of the Treaty of Alt Ranstadt, particularly the Court
of Vienna, and these Resentments seem to be much increased and [216b] heightened
since the Invasion of Pomerania. A forreign Minister who is well acquainted with
the dispositions of His Suedish Majesty, writes me since the Deposition of the late
Vizir Azem and the belief of the Renewal of the war with Muscovy, que I'Harmonie
entre les alliez et le Roy paroit un peu altere'e.2 It is affirmed on all hands, that Mr
Jefferyes is looked on with an ill eye at Bender, and he himself writes me under
the 12 th past in the following terms. In truth not only the Czar, but other Princes have
reason to apprehend His Majesty's Designs, if he should obtain of the Port so great a
sum as he has desired; for he hath declared he will not go by any other way to his own
Dominions then through Poland, and whether it is the interest of the Allies to suffer him
to enter that Kingdome with an Army of Banditti ; since none can tell how far his
Resentments may carry him when once he has it in his power to hurt, I humbly submit
etc.3 Your Lord? will please to observe, that this was written before they knew at
Bender the Deposition of the late Vizir, w ch happened on the 9 th past. Mr. Jefferyes
writes me further that all the answer the Suedes Ministers could give to his Memorial
touching the Revocation of the Orders his Suedish Majty has given for hindring our
Trade with Riga and other places in the Baltick taken from the Suedes in this war,
1
Colonel Grotthusen (Grotthus), a German officer in Swedish service and a favourite of
Charles XII.
2 3
31 March 1710. The passages in italics are underlined in the manuscript.
and the [217a] Restitution of an English Vessel called the Beginning Brigantine,
was, that those Ports are blocked up by his Majesty's ships.
I find the Dutch Embr resolved to carry on his good Offices pursuant to his
Orders, and there being fair dispositions, tho' there be likewise great suspicions and
Diffidence, on both sides, the Difnrences might very probably be adjusted with his
single interposition. Or if the businesse cannot be ended here, it might very likely
be hbrought to a final conclusion, when the Ottoman Army should be in the field,
w° might at least give jealousy to their other Neighbours.
Your Lord? will please to signify to me Her Majesty's pleasure relating to the
Affair in hand as soon as possible, and if it rbe not finished here, and it should be
requisite for my self and the Dutch Embass to attend the Vizir to Adrianople or
further, and Her Majesty be pleased to send me Orders accordingly, I must humbly
recommend it Your LordP to take care that due provision be made for the Expences
of my Equipage and journy in such case. I shall constantly acquaint Your Lord?8
by all opportunities what passeth further, having nothing else for your LordP'
information at present, but that the Ministers of the Port have already begun to
give several Orders for preparations, and the Vizir Azem and Tefterdar x [2176]
Effendi are today gone to the Arsenal to give directions concerning the Fleet. I
am . . .

30 December 1711
My Lord
Since my last of the 20th instant, wherein I had the honour to acquaint your LordP
of the proposals made by the Muscovite Plenipotentiaries to the Port in Order to
the settlem* and execution of the Peace, the Vizir Azem and the Turkish Com-
missaries for the present Treaty have continually harrassed me and the Dutch
Embassr and called us almost daily to their Conferences, which have lasted from
morning 'till night, insomuch that for these four last daies I have not had a moment
of time to my self, and being forced to dispatch this by an Expresse to overtake
a Courier who departed yesterday, your LordP will pardon me, if I beg leave to
defer the informing you of particulars 'till the next opportunity, and only acquaint
you at present, that all this time hath been present in disputes and a thousand
doubles and turns of the Turkish Ministers, who have employed all the Artifices
they could invent, sounding and turning the Muscovites on all sides without coming
hitherto to any agreem* on any one article. They are sensible how defective the
Instrument of Peace is, and are trying all their fetches to extend it. I cannot yet
certainly tell what will be the issue of these conferences. The Port seems to be inclin-
able to Peace, but seeks to gain advantages in all the three points. [219&] They
would have the Muscovite Ucraina or part of it, would wholly exclude the Muscovites
out of Poland, without allowing them to return into that Kingdome even in the
case of the1 King of Sueden's entring with his forces into it, and even cutt them
Defterdar, ' keeper of the register ', i.e. superintendant of the finances.
off from defensive Alliances w th the King and Republick of Poland, and in the last
place insist upon their liberty to conduct the King of Sueden home at such time,
by such route and with such number of Troops, as the Sultan shall think proper,
tho' they offer to engage, that neither the King of Sueden nor his Forces, nor their
Troops, shall either during the said King's Abode in this Empire or in his passage,
nor their Troops in their return do any thing to the prejudice of the Peace with
Muscovy or imbroil matters or create any disturbance or damage to the Countries,
through wch they shall passe, provided they be not opposed or attacked in their
March, in w011 case they require that the Muscovites shall not give succour or assistance
to those, who shall oppose them. 'Tis probable they will give the Muscovites satisfac-
tion in this point, the later having desisted from their demand of the King of Sueden's
departure before the Surrendry of Assac, and their previous knowledg of his route,
wch the Port doth not think consistent with the Sultan's honour. How far the
Port will recede from its Pretensions on the other two heads does not yet clearly
[220a] appear, nor what its true aim is, because, as your Lofp will please to observe
by the inclosed Translation of the Articles delivered in by the Commrs on the Gr.
Sig rs part they have made attempts for their advantage in all particulars and pushed
them with equal vigour and warmth, without either giving up or gaining any of them
hitherto, arguing for each of them, and pretending to have no power to determine
or conclude, but requiring the Muscovites last answer upon them, which they will
receive ad referendum and the Gr. Sigr take his resolution thereupon. Yesterday
they declared that, if the Muscovite Plenipotentiaries had not Orders to offer enough
for the Sultan's satisfaction, they would allow them time to write for further Instruc-
tions. This and the time required for the surrendry of Assac and Demolition of
Taganrog gives some suspicion, that they will not accept what the Plenipotentiaries
can at present yield them, or at least will not wholly trust to their Promises concerning
the Places, and in the mean time carry on their Preparations and perhaps enter into
the field, and there finish the Treaty, but I shall suddenly be able to give your LordP
further light into that matter, and judg better whether their drift in those discourses
be only to give the Czar jealousy and distract his Forces by keeping a great part
of them this spring on this side, and I am persuaded that, if they can perfect the
Treaty to their satisfaction in due time, they will not move hence.
[2206] In the great hast, wherein I am forced to write this, least the Courier
should already have taken the Post at Adfple before my Alcance's arrival there,
I shall only further observe to your LordP that Turks having in the Muscovite Pleni-
potentiaries answer, which they couched in their language to be presented to the
Sultan, inserted these words, that the Czar should withdraw his Troops out of the
remoter parts of Poland into his own Countries in the space of 3 Months, the Pleni-
pot les objected against the Expression into his own Countries 1 as Equivocal, and
positively insisted upon the expressing that passage in these terms, that the Czar
shall cause his Troops to march out of the remoter parts of Poland in the space of three
months.5 I took notice likewise, that they carefully declined the naming of Prussia,
tho' it be named in their former Proposals. The reasons of these alterations I
take to be that the Plenipies would not oblige the Czar their Master to recall home
1
The passages in italics are underlined in the manuscript.
ch
the Troops w are in great Poland and the Polish Prussia but leave him at liberty
either to send them into Germany, if he thinks it good, before the expiration of
the term of 3 months, or to take quarters for them in the Kingdome of Prussia and
in Curland.
By the tenour of the two Articles brought in last night by the Turkish Com-
missaries, whereof my Druggerman hath just now given me an imperfect account,
they not being yet translated, it seems that the Port struggles hard to tye the Czar's
hands and hinder him from maintaining and supporting King Augustus on the
Throne of Poland against the King of Sueden. This the Commissaries do [218a]
not openly declare, but endeavour to gain it in a covert manner by captious, equivocal
and obscure Expressions, not allowing the Czar's Troops to return into Poland,
unless the King of Sueden's Forces passe thro' that Kingdome, without being joined
by the Poles to invade the Czar's Dominions, in which case the Czar's Forces may
enter Poland to incounter them. I suppose this is coloured with an exceeding tender
care for the preservation of Poland, that the Czar may not under pretext that the
Poles joined with the Suedes in war against him, enter that Kingdome and appropriate
to himself any part thereof by right of Conquest. But as I have not yet any Trans-
lation of the piece, and hath not yet been under consideration and debate, I can say
nothing further upon it at present.
I do not find that the Muscovite Plenipotentiaries offer to hinder the Ports
declaring against King Augustus or intermeddling in the Affairs of Poland, their
late Treaty not being favourable to 'em in that point, neither is there any body
else here to take the least care of it. Perhaps 'tis thought the Treaty of Carlowitz
is a sufficient fence against it. I think I have perceived, that the Muscovite Pleni-
potentiaries would not have shewn great obstinacy in insisting, that neither the King
of Sueden, nor his Forces (that he may pick up and list upon the Frontiers before his
Retreat and passage) nor the Turkish Forces in their route, shall cause any disturb-
ance (unlesse opposed) if they had encountered much reluctance on the Ports side
in that point tho' it be certain that they apprehend the King of Sueden will passe
thro' Poland, and not thro' the Emperour's Dominions.
I must take notice to your LordP that the word Barabashi which comprehends
all the Cossacks, except Zaporowski called by the Turks and Tartars Potkali, is
not found in the true Turkish Instrument of Peace, but was foisted into the copy
transmitted to the Gr. Signor by Osman Aga and Omer Effendi; for which and
other faults they have lost their heads.
The port continues giving Orders and making Preparations for a Campaign,
but hath strictly commanded the Tartar Han to make no incursion 'till he shall
receive further orders. I am . . .x
[205a] [Enclosures]
Translation of the Articles of the Demands of the Porte delivered to
the Muscovite Plenipot1^8 by the Turkish Commissarys the 27th Decr 1711.
It being stipulated in the Treaty of Peace that the Czar of Muscovy should
withdraw his hand from Poland and that neither he or his Troops should enter into
1
The last four paragraphs of this letter are in Sutton's own hand.
go DESPATCHES OF SIR ROBERT SUTTON
that Country, He ought in pursuance thereof effectually to break off all correspond-
ence with Poland, nor may he at any time under Pretence of the Polanders having
a Dependence upon him, meddle with their affairs, much less under any pretence
whatsoever send Troops into Poland.
And the King of Sweden without any further Dispute shall be sent back to his
own Country at such time and by such way as shall seem best to the Grand Signior ;
and if the King of Sueden shall afterwards enter into Poland, it shall not even then
be lawfull for the Czar or his Troops to come or enter into Poland, which if he does
the Ottoman Army shall then be obliged to enter likewise into Poland.
And the Cosacks named Barabaschi and Potcali with all their Country shall
remain in the possession and under the Protection of the Splendid Porte, in such
manner as that the Czar may not concern himself with them or molest them in
any manner whatsoever.
And pursuant to the Articles of Peace the Fortress of Taganrog ought to be
demolisht and that of Azof surrendred to the High Porte without any Reluctance
or Delay.
[2056] Translation of that article in the Turkish Instrument of the Peace touching
the Evacuation of Poland and the Cossacks.
That the Czar shall not intermeddle with the affairs of the Polanders nor may
he molest their Cossacks, nor the Zaporosci Cossacks, nor the Cossacks that are
with the most Happy Han Devlet Gherai, but he ought entirely to withdraw his
hand from that part.
N.B. The Turks and Tartars call the Zaporowski Cossacks Potkali, and all the
rest of the Cossacks by the general name of Barabaschi.
[193a]
The Form of Orders dispatched to all
Bashaws designed for War.
Whereas the Peace which was made in the Year 1122 between my august Empire
and the Czar of Muscovy, altho' the same was renewed in the year 1121 has yet been
broken by the said Czar who by his actions has evidently shewn his evil Intentions
against my High Empire and the Ottoman Territorys, wherefore this present happy
Year, with the assistance of God the Victorious Army which I raised and sent out on
that Expedition being marched against the unbelieing Muscovites towards the Borders
of Moldavia in a place called Hus Ghecidi having attacked and given them battle ;
reduced the said Czar and his Army to such streights and difficultys that he was
obliged to consent to the Concluding of a Peace upon their Conditions and Promises ;
That the Fortress of Azof in the Condition it was in when it was formerly taken, with
all its Territory's and Dependencies should be yielded up to my high Empire ; that
the Fortress of Taijan should be demolished ; That he should withdraw his hand from
that is should forbear to meddle with the Poles, and the Cossacks and other Con-
ditions were added upon which the Peace was concluded. And notwithstanding
reciprocal Writings and Instruments were made, sealed and interchangeably delivered
which were binding to both Partys and contained the said Conditions ; Yet now the
said Czar hath both omitted to deliver up the Fortress of Azof to my high'Empire
pursuant to the Articles of the foresaid Writings and to demolish that of Taijan
and to withdraw his hand from the Poles and Cossacks, which does plainly appear
from a Letter lately written by the said Czar to our Imperial Court as also from the
Discourse of his plenipotentiaries now residing as Hostages in my high Empire.
Now these proceedings being contrary to the Conditions and Articles stipulated
between [1936] both Partys. Wherefore having desired the Advice of the Viziers
Doctors of the Law, Chief Men of our Religion and others of my Council they did
all unanimously agree and answer that to prevent that Damages and Injurys we
might receive from the unbelieving Muscovites it is necessary to make War against
them ; So that to prevent the abovementioned Czar's doing any damage or prejudice
to the Ottoman Countries, my Imperial Majesty has determined and decreed, if it
please God to march next Spring in person with Grandeur and Magnificence together
with my victorious army which lyes in Rumelia Natolia and other Provinces, in
order with God's assistance to carry on this Wart. And it being necessary to
encounter the said Infidels with a more numerous and powerful Army than that which
was raised last Year, therefore you the said Bashaw are appointed to take the Field
with all those under your Command chosen Troops and men of valour compleatly
armed and with all your Cavalry and you are to begin your march so as to be on
St. George's Day in the Plain of Issaczi and there to joyn my Imperial Army. Where-
fore so soon as these my Noble Commands are come to hand you are to use all possible
Diligence to make ready the Troops under your Command with all the necessarys
for this Expedition, and with God's leave, to begin your March early with all the
Forces you are directed to have and the Horse, all chosen able Men and in good
Order and to be at the appointed time in the manner above expressed. For that
if you do not join my Imperial Camp by the time abovementioned in the manner you
are commanded your Excuses and Arguments shall not be heard but shall infallibly
incurr my Imperiall Displeasures [194a]. If then you tender your own Safety you
will set about this work with all possible Diligence. However you are to take great
Care that under this pretence you do not presume, in any place where you shall
quarter in your March, to exact any Provisions without paying for the same, or to
do any other thing that might be repugnant to Noble Justice: Neither may you
thro' loytering fail to be at the time and place prefixt and with the Forces you are
ordered to provide. For these Causes have I issued this my Imperial Order under
my hand whereby I Command you etc. ut supra. Given in the Middle of the Moon
of Zilkade in the Year 1123.

12 January 1711/12
My Lord •
In my former I had the honour to acquaint Your LordsP that the Muscovite
Plenipotentiaries at a great Divan, where the Tartar Han was present, made their
proposals for explaining the Treaty of Peace and removing the Difficulties, that
obstruct or suspend the Execution thereof, which said Proposals are. i m o That
the Czar shall evacuate Poland by causing all his Troops to retire out of these neigh-
bouring parts of that Kingdome within the space of 30 daies, and those Forces,
which remain in the remoter parts of the sd Kingdome within the term of 3 Months,
and shall not intermeddle in the Affairs of that Kingdome and Republick, nor send
his Troops back into the same, except in the case of the King of Sueden's entry
thereinto, in which he reserves himself the liberty to return into it likewise and
encounter his Enemy. 20 That the Czar shall restore and leave to the Poles those
Cossacks w a their Towns and Countries, wch belong to them according to the Treaties
now in force between himself and Poland, and cede to the Port and the Tartar Han
the Zaporowski and other Cossacks, which are retired into their Dominions, without
giving any disturbance to either in the future. 3 0 That Assac shall be surrender'd
within ten daies after the arrival of two Messengers who shall be immediately dis-
patched hence, one on the part of the Muscovite Plenipotles and the other on the
part of the Port, and Taganrog demolished within 20 daies after the surrendry of
Assac. On the other hand the Pleniples require from the Port a Declaration [2216]
or Recognition in writing in good form, that the Port is fully satisfied with the
Execution of the Treaty in the manner above expressed, and hath no further pre-
tension relating to the Cossacks, and that in case the Czar's Forces shall be obliged
to return into Poland to encounter the K. of Sueden, as above mentioned, the same
shall not be deemed a rupture of the Treaties of Peace with the Port. Thus much
was and is still insisted on in explanation of the late Treaty, and the Plenipotles
further in the said Divan required, that the King of Sueden should be sent away
without delay and previously to the surrendry of Assac, and that an Officer deputed
on their part should be permitted to see the said King two daies journey on his
way, and carry advice thereof to the Czar. The Turkish Ministers in the great
Divan offered the Plenipotles to give them an act declaring that the Port would
dispatch away the King of Sueden, but without determining the time, route, or the
number of Forces designed to conduct him, which the Pleniples at that time refused
to accept. They have neverthelesse since desisted from their demand of the King
of Sueden's Departure before the Execution of the Peace, and offer to content them-
selves, wth an act or Declaration from the Port that His Majesty shall be dispatched
away, provided the Circumstances of his Departure and Passage be agreed to their
satisfaction.
The Inexecution of the Treaty, and the non performance of several Obligations
and engagements, wcl1 the Plenipies had since enter'd into, had given the Sultan and
[222a] his Ministers an incredible and almost invincible Jealousy and distrust of the
Muscovites good faith, and the Vizir's asking the Pleniples whether they could find
any Body, who could amend or retrieve their Credit, gave the first rise to their
addressing themselves to me and the Dutch Emb r . They readily embraced and
improved the motion, and with the leave and consent of the Port, sent their Secret^
on the 14th past to each of us with Letters, which were the same word for word,
mutatis mutandis, and your Lord? hath a Copy thereof here inclosed Let. A. The
Secretary by word of mouth informed us of the Pleniples their Proposals, and in-
treated us to communicate them to the Port and accompany them with our good
Offices. By these steps your Lord? will observe that both parties were equally
desirous of our interposition, and expected it from us. On the 16 past I visited and
imparted the whole to the Vizir, who embraced my good Offices with much pleasure
and abundance of very obliging Compliments and expressions of friendship to her
Majesty. The D. Embasslesr had audience of him the next day. Upon my returning
an answer to the Plenip Letter, they wrote me another letter Let. B. and about
the same time presented the memorial to the Vizir, where of the Copy is inclosed
Let. C.
The 23 past the Vizir appointed a Meeting at the Reis Effendi's House, where
we found the Pleniples and had long discourses with them. The Reis Effendi and the
Chiaoux Bashi were present on the Vizir's part. At this Assembly we perused the
Czar's full Power, whereof a Copy goes herewith Let. D. and your Lordship [2226]
will please to observe the form of it, and that the Czar at the very time of the Con-
clusion of the Treaty of Peace was sensible enough how much it wanted Explanation.
The Pleniples having asked the Reis Effendi and his Companion whether they had
any Power to enter into Negotiation with them upon the points in difference, and
having received for answer that they had not, the sd Pleniples desired, that it might
be added to the report of what passed at that time, that they humbly moved that
Commissaries might be appointed011by the Port with Power to treat with them in
order to remove the Difficulties, w alone retarded the full Execution of the Treaty
of Peace. The next day I and the D. Embr went together to the Vizir Azem and
gave him a more ample Account of what had passed at the Assembly.
The day following being the 25th the Sultan himself having appointed Mehmet
Aga his great Master of the Horse, and Abdulkerim Effendi late Reis Effendi for his
Commissaries, we were called to a Conference in the later's House (wherein we have
alwaies since met) which lasted 'till 8 o'clock in the night,011the Gr. Sigr continuing all
the while in his Kiosk near the said Effendi's House, w is opposite to one of the
Gates of the Seraglio, and sending and receiving frequent Messages from the Com-
missaries, who received their Instructions immediately from His Highnesse, and
delivered in the Articles, whereof the Translation is herewith Let. E. upon w011 long
disputes and arguments arose without [223a] concluding any thing: But Mehmet
Aga positively required the Plenipotles assent orr rather submission to the said articles,
in default whereof he declared that the Gr. Sig was resolved to renew the War, and
that his Orders were already given accordingly, adding that his Highnesse was not
inclined to Peace, and alwaies expressing himself with great heat and passion and
in terms very reproachfull and injurious both to the Czar and the Pleniples whose
answer he at length required, and so this Conference broke up.
Ia and the Dutch Embr thought our selves obliged to take notice to the Vizir of
the s Agas passion and warmth, the rather because he is notoriously addicted to the
interests of ththe Tartar Han.
The 28 we were called to another Conference, which began with the Muscovite
Pleniples drawing up an answer to the first of the Articles brought in by the Turkish
Commissaries. The said answer being interpreted to the Commissaries was nod
way pleasing or satisfactory to them. Whereupon they proposed to couch the s
answer themselves in Turkish according to the Design and purpose of the rPleniples
but in other form and terms more proper to be presented to the Gr. Sig alwaies
declaring, that they had no power to assent or8 so much as to answer to any thing
On the Sultan's part, but desired the Plenipot last answer, (that Conference being
'[2236] as they said, to be the last) which they would receive ad referendum. The
Plenipo8 yielding to the method proposed, after many disputes the Commissaries who
frequently retired to confer by themselves and with Ali Aga the Sultan's Capigilar
Kayasi, who went to and fro between his Highnesse and them, they at length drew
up an Article in formchof an answer from the Plenipo8 upon the head of the Evacuation
of Poland. After w Ali Aga the Capigilar Kayasi came in with new Instructions
and orders from the Sultan. The Plenipotentiaries having always endeavoured to
stick close to the tenour of the Treaty and grounding themselves thereon. The
substance of his Introductory discourse was, that there is in reality no Treaty between
the Sultan and the Czar; that the Plenipotentiaries had imposed upon the late
Vizir and delivered him a Treaty in the Russe Language quite different from what
was agreed between them ; that Osman Aga had represented the Treaty quite other-
wise to his Highnesse, and conformable to the Demands, wch were now made ; That
the said Osman Aga and Omer Effendi, who were the authors and compilers of the
Treaty and of the representation made thereupon to his Highnesse, had justly lost
their Heads for their negligence and fault; That His Highnesse had never ratified
or approved the Treaty, as signed by the Plenipo8 That he understood it in a different
sence, That neverthelesse the Czar had not executed the Treaty which he owned;
That the Sultan had therefore put the whole matter under deliberation; That
according [224a] to their Law it had been found just to continue the war, and
pursuant thereto all necessary Orders were already issued out and preparations
made for the Campaign; That the Tartars their Fore-runners had already Orders
to prepare themselves for making an Incursion into the Czar's Countries; That
neverthelesse, tho' the Sultan was not obliged to own or accept the Treaty of Peace,
yet out of his moderation and his love to Peace, he might condescend to it, provided
the Czar would give him reasonable satisfaction in his Demands; And that his
Highnesse was assured that the Czar would not have refused his just Demands, if
the sd Plenipo8 had not abused the facility of the late Vizir Mehmet Pashaw, and
to raise their own merit, created an opinion in the Czar that they could bring the
said Vizir to their own terms, and so counselled their Master to decline what was
reasonable.
The answer of the Plenipo8 was in effect, that they had concluded the Treaty,
as by them signed, with the late Vizir Azem Mehmet Pashaw, who acted by virtue
of his Plenipotentiary Authority, as hath been ever practised in the like cases;
That the said Vizir had delivered them a ratification, telling them it was the Sultan's
Ratification, wch they had transmitted to the Czar their Master and at the same
time delivered to the said Vizir that of the Czar; and that they had no power to
treat but upon the foot and foundation of that Treaty.
As to the Treaty, the truth, as I have found it after [2246] due examination, is.
That the instrument deliver'd by Grand Vizir to the Plenipotentiary's the very same as
that which the Aga before named brought the Sultan whereof I sent you a Translation.
Wherein the word Barabash is express'd but that name which is general and designs the
whole nation save the Zaporowski named by the Turks Potcali is not in the Instrument
deliver'd by the Plenipotentiary's in their own and the latin language.1
The Treaty is not inserted either in the Czar's Ratification or in that, which
the late Vizir Mehmet Pashaw consigned to the Plenipo8 in the Sultan's name,
which last had only the Imperial Turah or Mark (set to all Imperial Firmans or
Commands) without either the Grand Sigr's signature or seal.
After Ali Aga's Premable and the Plenipotentiaries answer, he fell upon the
subject of the King of Sueden's Departure and passage, and after much discourse
and the Plenipotentiaries declaring their last answer on that point, Abdulkerim
Effendi drew up another Paragraph relating thereto, and it being then late a Copy of
it and the other concerning the evacuation of Poland was promised for the next day
to be translated and perused by the Plenipo8 [225a] and either altered or confirmed
by them; instead whereof we were called the next morning viz* the 29th past to a Con-
ference, at which the Turkish Commissaries, after having long consulted apart among
themselves, in lieu of the said two Articles delivered a new Draught or Model of
them, wherein they said several things had been altered and others added. It was
given to the Druggermen to be translated for the Plenipo8 perusal and examination
and your Lord? hath here the Translation Let. F. The Plenipo8 having considered
the said Model and judging it artificious and captious both in the matter and terms,
drew up an answer of their own Let. G. which was put into Turkish (with some
small alteration in the form and Expressions of the beginning of the tb
2d Article)
to be given in at the next Conference, which was appointed on the y instant, but
was by the Sultan's order put off 'till the io** by reason of the feast of little Bayram.
Accordingly on the 10th instant there was another meeting, at which the Turkish
Commissaries having first read the Muscovite Plenipo8 answer Let. G. and compared
it with that which they themselves had before drawn up and delivered as above
mentioned, and made some general observations and reflections on the difference
between them, enter'd upon the discussion of the first Article relating to the evacua-
tion of Poland. As to the Expression in their own Project, that the Czar ritirerd-
at suo paese 2 the Troops he hath at present in the remoter parts of Poland, they
very [2256] frankly and willingly desisted from it, declaring that his Czarish Majesty
might send them whither he pleased, provided they should quit Poland, and therefore2
insisted, that in the Muscovite Plenipo8 Answer Let. G. the words dalla Polonia
should be added alwaies after the words la fara uscire,2 to which the Plenipo8 easily
assented. Afterwards the Turkish Commissaries objected against the salvo se non
per le seguenti raggioni 2 in the plural number, saying there, was but one reason or
case expressed, and desired that those words might be omitted as not agreeing
with their construction and stile, to wcl1 the Plenipo8 consented, esteeming the case
and Reserve to be sufficiently expressed in the sequel. Lastly in the case, wherein
the Czar reserves himself the power of returning with his Troops into Poland, where
mention is made of the Poles joining wth the Suedes, the Commissaries insisted
that the Clause might be couched thus, Ma se il Re di Suezia entrasse nella Polonia
1
The passage
2
in italics is in cipher in the manuscript.
Underlined in the manuscript.
e solecitasse a conturbare li Polachi contro sua zarea Maesta e li medesimi congion-
gessero con il soprad t0 . Re per dichiarar' la Guerra a S.M.t!f Czh-1 The Plenipot8
objected against the last Expression and others of lesse force, W* were proposed,
and the Turkish Commissaries expected against I'intentione cattiva delli Nemici 1 as
general and indefinite. At length both parties agreed to raze out the word cattiva
and add the words per la guerra 1 after delli Nemici; so that this Article of the
Muscovites answer remained adjusted as it runs in the paper marked Let. G. the
[226a] words under which a double line is drawn being struck out, and those, under
which a single line is drawn being added. As far as I am able to penetrate the
Port and specially Gr. Vizir is truely desirous of peace and will conclude it in the field
if the Czar will facilitate it on his part, but in all appearance they will not finish it
here for many reasons* i m o they esteem the late Vizir Mehmet Pashaw to have
been grievously cozened and the Sultan having sent the Cham of Tartary away with
fair hopes, and being very distrustfull that2 the Czar may still under colour of his
Plenip8 having exceeded their Orders, or under some other pretext elude the execution
of the Peace, or raise new difficulties, if the Port should sit still and wholly rely upon
his good faith, will not expose himself to an inconvenience w011 besides the disgrace
of it would be dangerous for his person.2' Therefore he seems resolved to remove
hence, and remain at Babadag, while the Army shall be in the field, and either
the peace be concluded and executed ; or the Operations of the Campaign be over.
2° 'Tis probable the Port may hope to extend the late Treaty beyond the Explanation
the Muscovites give it, if the affairs of the Czar and his [226b] Allies do not succeed
so well as they expected, and imagine that the Czar might reckon upon the facility
of the late Vizir Mehmet Pashaw; but when he shall have heard that Minister's
deposition, and the Gr. Sig r ' 8 resolution to bring as great an Army into field as last
year, he may yield somewhat more, rather than draw so great a force upon himself,
and peradventure the Port is further willing to divert Czar's forces this year without
renewing the War. The Grand Vizir is desirous to be at the head of the Army knowing
that all the authority and power will then be in his hand which now the favourites have,
and presuming he can finish the peace in the field and send Sweden home, designing
possibly to explain himself with Poland concerning that Prince's passage. That
Minister hath insinuated so much to me by a person in his confidence and he hath many
times assured me and Dutch Minister that the Sultan will not vigorously insist on the
matters in difference, and that he hopeth he shall not pass the Danube, so that the
Colonel seems to be to make the Plenipotentiarys go as far as they can here and reserve
their propositions to conclude in the field if [227a] they can gain nothing more,3 which
however they hope and will gave the M(uscovi)te Plenip8 leave to dispatch a Courrier
to the Czar.
The truth is, that the people and soldiery in general are very desirous of Peace,
and we see no body inclined to war, except the Tartar Han and a few of his friends
and Creatures.
I must now acquaint your Lord? that I and the Dutch Embassad r have been
1
2
3
The words in italics are in cipher in the manuscript.
1
informed by the Zagargi Bashi, who had it from the Sultan's own mouth, and been
advised several times by the Vizir Azem, that their intention is to carry the Muscovite
Plenipo8 along with them, and that we shall likewise accompany them. Your LordP
will judg how difficult or rather impossible it is for us to excuse our selves or avoid
giving our attendance on this occasion, which hath cast us, but especially my self
into great perplexity, both for want of Orders and for reasons, which I have formerly
had the honour to lay before Your LordsP. Therefore I must humbly beg the favour
of Your LordP to signify the Queen's pleasure to me with all possible spead, and if
it be Her Majesty's pleasure to honour me with her Commands in this service, I
humbly crave Your LordP'8 favour and protection in moving that same allowance
may be made me for my Equipage and the Charges of my journey, as in the case
of my Predecessour the [2276] Lord Pagett.
Your Lord? will please to consider whether it be requisite on this occasion to
send me a Full power and Her Majesty's Letter with offers of Her Mediation to
the Sultan and Vizir Azem.
I inclose a Translation of the Imp 1 Command sent to the Pashaws and am . . . 2
[195a] [Letter A]
A Translation of the Muscovite plenipotentiary's
Letter to S r Rob. Sutton. 3
Most Illustrious and Excellent S r
We should have had the honour to wayt upon your Ex°y in person, but this
favour being not allowed us by the refulgent Port, we send our Secretary of the
Embassy with our Requests. We therefore pray you to give Credit to what our
said Secretary shall declare, to you by word of Mouth, beseeching you by the ancient
friendship between his Czarish Ma*y our most gracious Mastermind Her Ma*^ the
most Serene Queen of Great Britain to employ yourself in so earnest a concern;
whereof his Czarish Ma*y will ever own the obligation to her Ma*y the most serene
Queen, and will also remember the favour he will receive from your Ex°v And we
profess ourselves ever
Your Ex c y' s most devoted and obedient servants
r
The 14 Dec 1711 P. B. Schaphiroff
Constantinople Czeremetew
[199a] [Letter B]
A Translation of the Muscovite plenipotentiary's
Letter to S r Rob. Sutton. 4
Most Illustrious and Excellent S r
We have received by your Druggerman your Ex°v's most accomplisht Letter,
by the Contents whereof as well as by the said Druggerman's Discourse we have
1
Zagardji bashi, ' chief of the bloodhound-keepers ', commanding the 64th Chamber of the
Janissaries. 3
•The last sentence is in Sutton's own hand. The Italian version is on fo. 197.
* The Italian version is on fo. 199.
understood with how much readiness and zeal your Ex°y was pleased to represent
to the Grand Vizir what might be of service towards the adjusting of the Differences
which in the present juncture have arisen between his Czarish Ma'y our most gracious
Lord and the splendid Port; We do further find by experience that your Ex0?'8
endeavours in this affair have been acceptable to the Splendid Porte. We have
made very pressing Instances to obtain leave to speak with your Ex°y and with
the most Excell* Dutch Ambassador, that we might lay before you in a distinct
manner our just pretensions and arguments, but it seems they will not allow us
that favour. We therefore beseech your Ex°y to cause this leave to be asked of
the Government in your name, that we may have the honour to wayt upon you at
such place as shall be appointed to conferr upon whatever relates to the preserving
of the perpetual Peace establisht between his Czarish Ma*y our Master and the
Splendid Porte, which if they are willing to preserve his Czarish Ma*y will maintain
it inviolably. Indeed we very much wonder that the Splendid Porte should not
trust the Promises we have made touching the fulfilling of the late Treaty [199*]
but if we had not an Order under his Czarish Ma*y our master's own hand, we would
engage in this manner by giving up our own persons as pledges that Azof shall
within Ten Days after the arrival of such person as shall be sent thither by the
Splendid Porte and of another man to be sent on our part shall be delivered to
such person as shall be appointed to take possession of the said place, and that
Taganroch shall within Twenty Days after the Delivery of Azof be entirely demolisht.
We do not doubt but your Excv knows that we would not undertake such an affair
if we were not entirely assured of the Execution of our promises which would infallibly
ensue if the Splendid Porte were inclined to peace ; as we gave in writing a Declara-
tion of those points which have been declared by our Secretary to your Excy, we do
further engage that all our Troops that are now in Poland shall march out of it
in a months time and as to those in Prussia that his Czarish Ma*y our master shall
cause them to retire from thence in April, but of this we must give an account to
his Czarish Ma*y our Master hath he may give the necessary orders because it would
not be put in execution by vertue of our Letters only. Wee see in what credit and
particular esteem your Ex°y is with the Splendid Porte and therefore do again beseech
your Ex°y to insinuate to them that they may be persuaded that we will infallibly
cause our promises to be fulfilled, since your Excy may know that unless we were
positively informed that such orders would be given we should never engage our
own persons for the performance. We therefore [200a] hope that this whole matter
may be adjusted thro' your Ex°y'e mediation and we assure you that in return his
Czarish Ma*y our Master will employ himself with all his might for the advancement
of whatever may concern the Interest of Her Ma*y the most Serene Queen as for his
own Interest and will eternally acknowledge you Ex°y's favour herein, and We and
our posterity shall be obliged ever to remember the benefit we shall receive at your
hands and so we declare ourselves to be,
Your Exey's
most devoted and obedient servants
Constantinople, 19th Decr P. B. Schaphiroff
Szeremetew
DESPATCHES OF SIR ROBERT SUTTON ' 99
[209a] [Letter C]
Let. C. Copy of the Heads presented to the Most
Excellent Lord Vizier.
I'y. We pray that the Splendid Porte will be pleased to examine well the 2nd.
Article of the late Treaty which concerns the Cossacks ; because that when this
peace was transacted there never was any notice taken of the Cossacks Subjects
of his Czarish Majesty who inhabit the vast provinces of Lesser Russia, in which
are above a hundred Citys, and not only in the Treaty we signed written in the
Russian tongue but even in that which was written in Turkish no mention was made
of them. And besides, every one knows that in the said Province, in all the Chiefest
Citys of the Cossacks from Chiovia to Glukovo there were and still are Garrisons of
his Czarish Majesty's Troops and the Hatman called Scropazchi with all his Cossacks
is a faithfull and constant Subject of his Czarish Majesty, and in pursuance of our
Treaty of perpetual peace with the Kingdom of Poland, they depend on his Czarish
Majesty and never were under the Protection of the Splendid Porte nor under that
of the Han of the Crimea, whereas it is declared that his Czarish •Majesty shall with-
draw his hand from the Cossacks belonging to the Poles, and from the Zaporowski
and the Cossacks who are under the Protection of the Splendid Porte and of the
Han of Crimea. This therefore is the reason why we desire [2096] to have your
Declaration in writing, that you may not lay claim to his Czarish Majesty's subjects
now depending on him. But the Splendid Porte may well know the naked truth,
whether when this peace was treated of, a Demand was made of all the Cossacks
subjects of his Czarish Majesty, because they proposed that Camencha and Samar
(as Towns that were on the Confines of the said Province between the Zaporowski
and Crimea) should be demolished and that for the future should remain desert
and uninhabited by either party, whereas those Towns ought to have been restored
to that Province. And heretofore in the time of his Majesty Sultan Mahomet the
Splendid Porte was in war with his Czarish Majesty which happened upon a Dispute
concerning Cohrin with which place the peace was made; and the Splendid Porte
never meddled with the remainder of Ukrainia from Chiovia along that side of the
River Boristhenes ; and now by the Treaty with the Kingdom of Poland Cehrin
remains desart and as to the other Towns of the Cossacks (except Chiocio and the
Dependecys [sic] of that Town from the River Irpeni to Tasma) which is understood,
on that side the River Boristhenes his Czarish Majesty has restored them; neither
does he lay any claim to them, nor to the Zaporowski nor the Cossacks who are under
the Protection of Splendid Porte or the Han of Crimea.
2dly. As to the King of Sweden we are content with what was declared by the
most Excellent Lord Vizier and the other Lords in a Conference held with them,
that if an [210a] assurance be given in writing that the said King shall be sent home
by such a Route wherein he may not create new Troubles and Disturbances whereby
this Peace may be broken, the way of Belgrade is proposed as most convenient and
proper for this end, and a time be fixt for his being thus sent, this shall be accepted
by us as if the King were actually sent away.
ioo ' DESPATCHES OF SIR ROBERT SUTTON
dl
3 v. His Czarish Majesty's Troops are positively already marched out of
Poland and those which lye at Nemivoua and Polonova are only some Hundreds of
Men that were left there by the most Excellent Lord Count Sceremetouw, for the
security of the Expresses that pass to and fro with Letters. However we promise
to make them march away in a Month and when these affairs are adjusted the Splendid
Porte may send a Man with our Expresse who may with his own Eyes see this put
in Execution and what mighty preparations of War we have in those parts, as our
Enemys here report; And those Troops which are in Prussia designed to enter into
that part of Pomerania which belongs to the Swedes, shall infallibly be withdrawn
by the Month of Aprill; and as to these, we desire time till that Month, it being
impossible it should be sooner, because of the great distance of place for we must
give an account of it to his Czarish Majesty our Master and he must send the necessary
Orders to the Generals of those Forces. From this time forward our Troops shall not
enter Poland much less take Quarters there, provided the Poles themselves do not
declare war against his Czarish Majesty nor join with the King of Sweden against
him: Which if they do, in suth case the Splendid Porte shall not look upon it as
Rupture of the Peace if his Czarish Majesty be constrained to march against them :
On the contrary, the Splendid [2106] Porte will vouchsafe to reflect that his Czarish
Majesty can make such a Proposal with no other End or Purpose than to maintain
the Peace continually and unalterably.
The Ministers plenipotentiarys of his Czarish Majesty pray that the Splendid
Port will give them a certain, distinct declaration in writing stipulated and signed
of what is expected and on the other hand they engage upon receipt of such Instru-
ment in writing, to send it to Azof to the most Excellent Lord, Count and Knight
Apraxin, Admiral of his Czarish Majesty and that the said City in ten days after the
arrival thereof shall be delivered up to the Splendid Porte as it is exprest in the
Treaty, and Taganrog within twenty or even fifteen Days after the Delivery of
Azof shall be totally demolisht. And for a Confirmation that all that is above con-
sented to shall be fulfilled according to promise the said Ministers do offer their own
persons as pledges, that it shall undoubtedly be put in execution and thus may the
peace be preserved without the shedding of innocent Blood.1
[133a] [Letter D]
Let. D. By the Divine Goodness Wee the most Serene and Potent great Lord
Czar and Great Duke Peter Alexiovitz of all the Great, Lesser and White Russia
sole Monarch, and of Muscovy-Kiovia, Vlademeza, Novogorod, Czar of Casan, Czar
of Astracan, Czar of Siberia, Lord of Proscovia and Great Duke of Smolensko Toversky,
Ingorsky, Permesokey, Wiatskey Bolgerskey and of divers other Countrys Lord and
Great Duke of the Lower Novgorod, of Cheringo, Rosanskey Jarolafskey, Boloserf-
skey, Udorskey, Condinskey and Emperor of all the Northern Coast, Lord of the
Country of Iverskey, Carcalinsk'ey, and Czar of the Country of Giusinenskey, of
Kabardinskey, Charkeskey and of Duke's Mountain, and many other Dominions and
Territory's East, West, and North from our Father and Ancestors sole Heir, Successor
1
The Italian version of this letter is given on fo. 207.
and Soveraign, Our Czarish Majesty Wee give full power to Our Czarish Majesty's
Imperial Vice Chancelor and Privy Councellor Baron Schaphiroff and to Our Major
General Count Scheremetew. Whatever the abovenamed (being at the Court of the
most Excellent Sultans of the greatest and the most worshipful King of the most
honourable Mecca and Medina and protector of the holy Jerusalem, King and Emperor
of most extensive provinces in the regions of Europe and Asia and lying along the
White and Black Sea, the most Serene, potent and Great Emperor, Sultan Son of a
Sultan and King Son of a King, the Sultan Achmet Han Son of the Sultan Mehmet
Han his Sultanish Majesty) shall propose, agree and establish upon the Foundation
[1336] of the Treaty of Peace between us and his said Sultanish Majesty of the
1
Turks made the Day of July of the present Year 1711 in the Camp near
the River Pruth by the Grand Vizier Mehemet Bassam on the part of his Sultanish
Majesty and by the abovenamed Baron Schaphiroff and Count Cheremetew on our
part, the same shall by us be firmly and inviolably observed. In Witness whereof
these present Plenipotentiary Letters of our Czarish Majesty are made and sealed
with our Seal; In our Camp near the River Pruth, in the Year from the Birth of
Christ 1711, the Day of the Month of July and of Our Imperial Reigne the 30th
Yeare.2
[Letter E]
[152a] Let. E. It being specifyed in the Treaty of Peace, that the Czar of
Muscovy is to withdraw his hand from Poland and that neither he nor his Troops
may enter into the same, as also that he ought entirely to break off all Correspondence
with Poland and that he may not, under pretence of their depending on him, concern
himself with the Affairs of the Poles much less under any pretence send forces into
Poland.
And the King of Sweden without further Delay shall be sent to his own Country
in such time and by such Route as the Grand Signior shall think fit; after which
if the King of Sweden should return into Poland, neither even under that pretence
may the Czar or his Troops come or enter into Poland, wch if he should, the Ottoman
Army in such case shall be obliged to enter into Poland.
And the Cossacks named Barabashi and Potkali, with all their Country ought to
be in the possession and under the protection of the Splendid Porte, nor may the
Czar in any manner concern himself with them or molest them.
And in pursuance of the Articles of Peace the Fortress of Taganrog ought to be
demolished and that of Azof surrendered to the High Porte without any difficulty
or delay.
[156a] [Letter F]
Let. F. The last Answer of their Ex°ys the Lords Plenipotentiarys
concerning the Article about Poland.
His Czarish Ma*y will withdraw his Troops w011 are in the hithermost part of
Poland in the Term of 30 Days and his Troops woh are in the further part of Poland
(his Czarish Ma^'8 own Orders being necessary for that purpose) in three Months
1 2
A space is left blank. The Latin version is given on fo. 131.
and they shall march home to his own Country: nor will he concern himself with
the Affairs of the Government of the Poles, and he will renounce all Pretensions
upon their Country, nor may he under any pretence send his Armys into Poland,
and thus there remaining none of his soldiers in Poland his Czarish Ma'y will then
have withdrawn his hand from Poland and so have accomplisht the Articles of the
Peace. But if the King of Sweden enters into Poland and solicits the Poles to break
with us [sic] and makes an alliance with them so that it is certain and evident that
they are going to commence a warr (when an Enemys evil Intentions are visible,
one can not forbear making preparations) it shall then be lawfull for the Muscovite
Troops to enter into Poland to encounter them; Yet the Muscovites being enter'd
into Poland upon such an occasion shall not molest the Cossacks, who depend on
the high Porte. And if the King of Sweden, without entring into an Alliance with
the Poles, do with his own Troops only march thro' Poland against the Muscovites
and [1566] his Czarish Ma*y in his own Defence do encounter him and a Battle ensue
between them, after which the King of Sweden shall retire with his Troops and
march back to his own country. This pretence only, that the King of Sweden
intended to invade me [sic] by the way of Poland shall not avail the Czar to molest
the Poles upon this account, nor may he or his Troops remain in Poland, but they
shall retire from thence and march back into his own Country ; nor shall the alledging
that the King of Sweden may or will return into Poland, authorise the Czar to keep
any Troops or Garrison in Poland.
The last answer concerning the Route and the sending home
of the King of Sweden.
The high Porte at whatever time and by whatever way they shall think fit
to send away the King of Sweden, shall send him directly home, but we do not
prescribe any time or Route for his Journey; and the Troops W* the high Porte
shall appoint to accompany him shall not be employed by the said King for any
Other purpose but for his Defence and in the way of a Guard; And the said King
as well during his stay in the Territories of the high Porte, and his own Troops
as also those that shall be assigned him by the high Porte, shall not do any Damage
or any manner of Injury to the Muscovites [1570] or their Territorys. And when
the high Porte shall think fit to send away the King of Sweden, by whatever Route
he shall make his Journey, neither in their March forwards nor in their Return
shall the Troops cause any trouble or disturbance in the Countrys thro' which they
shall passe or occasion any Infraction of the Peace lately concluded with the High
Porte : In like manner, whatever way the King of Sweden shall march, both in
his passage as (after his arrival into his own Country) in the Return of the Troops
of the High Porte, it shall not be lawfull for the Muscovites or any others to do
any kind of Damage or Injury either to the King of Sweden or his troops or those
Troops that shall be assigned him by the high Porte.
[162a] [Letter G]
Let. G. The last Reply of the Lords Ministers Plenipotentiarys
upon the following points.
His Czarish Maty will cause to March out of Poland, his Troops which are in
the hithermost part of the sd Poland in the space of 308 Days, and those that are in
the furthermost part of that Country, his Czarish Ma^' own Orders being necessary
for that purpose, will cause to march out of Poland in the Term of 3 Months. And
he will not concern himself with the Affairs of the Government of the Poles, nor
for the future will he under any pretence send back his Forces into Poland, unless
it be for the Reasons here after mentioned ; And thus no Muscovite Troops remaining
in Poland, one may then say that his Czarish Ma*y has effectually withdrawn his
hand from Poland in pursuance of the Treaty, concluded with the Splendid Porte.
But if the King of Sweden enters into Poland and solicits the Poles to stirr them
up against his Czarish Ma*v and that they joyn with the said King and so the Enemys
evil Intentions to make war become evident, that in such case the Muscovite Troops
may freely enter into Poland and act against their Enemies in an hostile manner,
and this shall not be lookt upon by the Splendid Porte to be a Rupture of the Peace.
But for the greater quiet and tranquillity of Poland it is proper to stipulate that
neither the King of Sweden nor his Czarish Ma*y shall [1626] enter into Poland,
which is a separate and independent Kingdom; and so neither side would give
any disturbance to the Affairs of the Government of Poland.
The splendid Porte positively promise to send the King of Sweden from the
Ottoman Dominions to his own Country, but without fixing the time or the Route
for his Journey; and as to the Troops which shall be appointed by the Splendid
Porte to accompany him, the said King shall not employ them in any other business
than to serve as a Guard for the safety of his own Person, nor shall they intermeddle
with any thing else. In like manner the said King during his stay in the Ottoman
Dominions and in his march till he arrives in his own Country, neither he nor his
Troops nor those that shall be assigned him by the Splendid Porte" for his Guard,
may not do any injury to his Czarish Ma*y nor make any Infraction of the perpetual
peace, now concluded with the Splendid Porte ; neither shall the Troops that shall
accompany the said King, either in their March forward, or in their Return create
any trouble or disturbance in the Country thro' which they shall pass. On the
other hand no harm or injury shall be done to the said King in his March till he
is arrived in his own Country, nor to the Troops wcl1 the splendid Porte shall send
with him in their Return, neither he nor his Troops, nor those of the Splendid Porte
shall be molested by the Troops of his Czarish Majesty. And if the [163a] Splendid
Porte should think fit to send the said King home, thro' his Czarish Ma*^'8 Dominions,
his Czarish Ma*y will even consent to that according to the Declaration heretofore
made, and particularly that he shall not be accompanied by any Troops of his
Sultanish Ma*y except some Hundreds of men, who may see that he be convoyed
in all safety to his own Country.
As to what relates to the Cossacks we refer' ourselves to the Proposals that
have already been made in writing to the great 'Vizir, nor can we in any manner
accept of any other ; and both as to this head and those beforementioned, we pray
that we may have a Declaration in writing and an assurance that the same will be
performed in pursuance of our Proposals and that the Peace will be observed
perpetually and unalterably.

8 February 1711/12
My Lord
In my last of the 12 past I had the honour to inform Your Lord? what had
passed 'till that time in the negotiation between the Port and the Muscovites,th since
which they have had butles two more Conferences. In the former held the 19 past
the Muscovite Plenipot Answer upon the Article relating toa the evacuation of
Poland was adjusted, as Your LordP finds it here inclosed Let A. and the Turkish
Commissles declared the Ports approbation of it, the proposal that neither the Czar's
nor the King of Sueden's Troops should enter into Poland, being left out at the
desire of the sd Commissles.
Afterwards they proceeded upon the 2d point touching the King of Sueden's
departure and passage home, and the Plenipot8 answer upon it Let.d B. being read
and perused by the Commissaries, very long discourses arose, the s Commissaries
refusing to admit the Plenipotentiaries to treat about that Prince's Passage thro'
Poland. The chief arguments they used against it were, that there is nothing
stipulated on the Czar's part concerning it in the Instrument of Peace; That it
regarded Poland and not the Czar ; and that any agreement with him in that par-
ticular supposed his concerning himself with the Affairs of Poland, which is contrary8
to the Ports intentions and to the Article already passed. All that the Plenipot
replied to shew the necessity they lay under by their Orders and for their Master's
security to regulate the Circumstances of the King of Sueden's passage [228b] thro'
Poland, found no ingression. Abdulkerim Effendi thereupon drew up the Article
Let. C. which the Commissies desired the Plenip8 to consider, and either add or alter8
what they thought necessary. It was immediately interpreted, and the Plenip
observing that there was no mention therein of the King of Sueden's passing thro'
Poland, declared that their Orders were positive to settle the manner and Circum-
stances of that Prince's passage, in case the Port should conduct him thro' Poland.
On the other side, the Commissaries absolutely refused to treat that matter with
the Plenip8 but at the same time declared, that in case the Port shouldfindit necessary
to send his Suedish Majesty by way of Poland, with which Kingdome they are
friends, and at Peace, they would treat about it, and settle all things relating thereto
with that King and Republick ; and further explained themselves, that in such case
neither their Troops nor the King of Sueden and his Troops or attendants should
make any intrigues, breed any disturbances, or commit any hostilities but passe
quietly and amicably, and pay in ready mony for all things they should have occasion
of, or be supplied with by the Poles. As to the number of Forces, w011 the Port
might appoint to conduct his Suedish Majesty, they said it was never intended to
assign more than 6 or 8000 men for that service, but that they now esteemed that
1000 or 1500 or at most 2000 men might be sufficient, and that they would chose
such [229a] men as should observe good Order and discipline, and indeed made
such fair and moderate Declarations upon this point, as might well have satisfied
the Plenipotentiaries provided the Commissaries would have agreed and settled
the same with them, which they peremptorily refused alledging the reasons above-
mentioned, and that they could never consent to the Muscovites stipulating a new
Article, w0*1 purely and only concerned the Poles. An Overture was made, that
the Commissaries should regulate the number of the King of Sueden's Escorte and
all other things relating to that Prince's Passage thro' Poland with me and the
Dutch Embassadr. That the Port should oblige it self to observe its Declaration
made to us on that behalf, in case the King and Republick of Poland would accept
the same; and that we should communicate the 8whole to the Pleniples. This
proposal seemed to be liked by the Turkish Commiss who desired it might be con-
sidered on both sides, and that the Plenipot8 should give their answer upon it at
the next meeting. Accordingly on the 31 past, the said Plenip8 declared, that
they could not assent to it, by reason that the Czar's Orders to them were strict
and positive to settle that matter themselves with the Port, and transmit the said
Port's Declaration upon that and the other points in hand to the Admiral Apraxin,
without which he could not surrender Assac and raze Taganrog 'till he should receive
other Orders from the Czar ; but that they would take [2296] the proposal ad referen-
dum x and believed it might be approved by his Majesty.
It was proposed to lay aside for the present this Article relating to the King
of Sueden's departure and passage, which ought to be the last in Order, as being
the last thing to be performed, the Plenip8 having already expressed themselves
contented, that his Suedish Ma*y should not depart 'till after the Execution of the
Peace, and to proceed upon the8 3d point touching the Cossacks, to w°b the Com-
missaries replied, that the Plenip themselves had in the beginning of this Negotiation
required the discussion and clearing this point previously to the Execution of the
Peace, and established the Order of the Articles, wch they could not now alter. I
conceive the grounds of this refusal to have been, the Resolution of the Port to
march the Army to the Frontiers for the reasons I mentioned to Your LordP in
my last, and reserving to themselves the liberty to claim such advantages, as the
state of affairs at that time might afford them hopes of obtaining, and that in such
Circumstances they would not prejudice their pretensions touching the Cossacks
by weakening or remitting them before hand. Neverthelesse this Article touching
the Cossacks had been occasionly discoursed upon in former Conferences, and the
Commissaries had heard the Plenip8 reasons and arguments upon that subject more
amply and fully then they are set forth in several Memorials, w°h the said Pleni-
potentiaries [230a] have exhibited, and not only the Vizir Azem himself had assured
us several times underhand, but likewise Bekir Effendi late Reis Effendi and other
Ministers of the Port had confirmed the same, that the Port would not insist uponb
that pretension, but content it self with the cession of the District of Camenki w°
was the seat of the Zaporowski Cossacks, and lies about the River Czertomelik, that
1
ic6 DESPATCHES OF SIR ROBERT SUTTON
discharges it self very low into the Boristhenes, and is far distant from the Muscovite
Ucraina, and the Country between them desert, or else if it were necessary, wholly
relinquish that Pretension.
In these terms the Differences were, when on the 4 th instant several Messengers
very unexpectedly arrived from the Tartar Han, who is at Bender, from the Pashaw
of Bender andththe other Pashaws who are in Crimea, with the news, that the Musco-
vites on the 6 of the moon Zilkhegi viz* about 35 daies ago blew up and raized the
new works of Assac and surrendred the place with all its Gates, Artillery and
Ammunition in the condition it was when it was taken by the Czar, to Ivas Pashaw ;
That the Turks on that day being friday, made their Prayers in all the Churches ;
That Ivas Pashaw having but 600 men with him, the rest being returned into Crimea
by reason of their hardships and sufferings, without the place, while the surrendry
was suspended, the Commandant of 'the Place with 160 Cossacks remained with
Ivas Pashaw as Hostages for their security from Treachery and surprizes untill
the remainder of the Troops appointed [2306] for the Garrison should arrive ; and
that some daies after the Muscovites began to demolish Taganrog, several Turks
assisting at the Springing of the Mines. I have seen the letter from the Pashaw
of the Castle of Kersi upon the Streight of Crimea to the Vizir Kayasi containing
all these and other particulars. Murzah Aga is on the road with the Keys of the
Place and two Muscovite Officers dispatched by the Admiral Apraxin with a letter
to the Vizir Azem.
Your Lord? will easily imagine what a surprizing Joy this news hath caused
here. We do not yet know to what to ascribe this proceeding so opposite to several
letters very lately written in resolute and rough terms by 8the Czar to the Sultan,
and directly contrary to so many Declarations of the Plenip being ignorant whether
this Resolution was taken upon the facility and fair Promises of the late Vizir, or
upon an apprehension conceived upon his Deposition, or any great disorder in the
Czar's affairs ; neither is it yet evident what the Consequences of. it will be; but
it may be justly feared that it will produce an Effect quite contrary to the Czar's
Design and desire. However that will appear more clearly in a few daies, and I
will be carefull to acquaint your Lord? of it as soon as I shall be able to give any
certain account thereof.
The Preparations for war by Land have been hitherto carried on; but there
is no extraordinary [231a] Armement made in the Arsenal, and the Capitan Pashaw
was already designed to go out into the Archipelago this summer.
Immediately upon the first hopes of the Turks entring again into the Field, the
Suedes Officers at Bender quitted all commerce with Mr Jefferyes, and his Suedish
Majesty took from him a Suede servant, whom he brought out of England wth him.
I suppose he will himself give an account of his Treatment r
there. But I humbly
think my self obliged to inform your Lord? that Mons Grotthuss that Prince's
favourite, Monsr Funck his Envoy at the Port and General Poniatowski are entirely
in the French rinterest. The former keeps a constant correspondence with the
French Embass in Cypher, and the two later are every day in Conference with
him, and have by Memorial made very violent and indecent Remonstrances to the
Port against the Proceedings of Her Majesty, the States General and all the Allies,
1
but most particularly against me and the Dutch Embassadour and it is very remark-
able that his Suedish Majesty's Resentment against the Allies are very much increased
since the Invasion of Pomerania.2
The French Embassadour hath been very positive in affirming both to the
Port and thech
Suedes, that a Separate Peace is concluded between Her Majesty and
France, w neverthelesse the former are not so easy as to be believe. The said
Embr does all that lies in his power, to persuade both the Turks and Suedes, that
his Master keeps up the fire [2316] of Rebellion under the Embers in Hungary, and
values exceedingly the interest and correspondences of France in Poland. He like-
wise makes the Suedes great promises of Assistances in mony, and in the mean
time procures them all the Credit, he is able among the Merchants of his Nation
here, making himself security for the mony, Cloth and other goods, which they
take up, and convert the later into mony. The Enterprenant a French man of
War of 60 Guns richly laden for Smyrna and this Scale is now daily expected, and
would have been here before this time, if entring into the Port of Trepani in Sicily
she had not touched upon the Mud, which obliged the Captain to unlade part of
the Goods, but without any Dammage, as the French pretend. She brings between
fifty and a hundred thousand pieces of f the greatest part whereof if not the whole,
is consigned to the Embassadour, but I am not certain for what use it is designed.
Since my last Abdulkerim Effendi one of the Commissaries of the Port for
the present Negotiation with the Muscovites, who was likewise one of the Com-
missaries that renewed the Treaty with the Muscovite Embassadour two years ago,
hath been made Reis Effendi in room of Bekir Effendi, and Pachmackgizadde the
late Mufti, who was a promoter of the War, being departed this life, about ten daies
ago, Ebbezadde, who was Mufti at the time of the abovementioned Treaty and adheres
to the same principles, hath been made Mufti in his place, besides which Ismael
Effendi the Tartar Han's [232a] Capi Kehaya and a man active for his Master's
interests, hath been deprived of the profitable Imployment of Tefter Emini, from
all which Changes people inferred a favourable Disposition in the Port to Peace.
I omitted to acquaint Yr Lordship in my last, but I ought to inform you that the
Ministers engaged the Archbishop of the Holy city to council the Plenipotentiarys address
themselves to me and the Dutch Embassadour for z our Mediation.
Yesterday Mirzah Aga, who was formerly Mutafericah Bashi of Assac, arrived
with a Muscovite Officer, dispatched by Adm1 Apraxin, ..bringing the Confirmation
of the Surrendry of that place, and that part of the Fortifications of Taganrog were
already blown up. I believe this Proceeding is to be imputed to Monsr Schaphiroff's
Representations to the Czar, it being certain that he gave too much credit to the
Cajolements of the late Vizir Mehmet Pashaw, who made him fine Promises, that
he would infallibly dispatch away the King of Sueden immediately after the Sur-
rendry of Assac, and delivered him two obligations of the whole Divan of the Army
1
See General Stanislaus Poniatowski's letter of 20 January 1712, and the Memorial entitled
' Reflexions mentionnees dans la lesttre et communiquees aux plusieurs de la Portte, pour les
fairre parvenir a la connoissance du Grand Seigneur ', both in the State Archives at Stockholm.
* Magnus Stenbock's campaign against the Danes, which was at first successful, but after-
wards3 ended with the capitulation of the Swedish army at Gadebush, 20 December 1712.
H
to that Effect, one whereof he transmitted to the Czar and the other to the Adm J
Apraxin. But all that Mehmet Pashaw and his Companions transacted in that
affair was intended for their own support and security, and wholly without the
Sultan's approbation or knowledge. When Mehmet Pashaw was deposed Monsr
Schaphiroff saw his Error, and despatched a Courier with Letters for the Czar and
the said Admiral intreating them to suspend the surrendry 'till all Difficulties were
cleared. The Courier was addressed to Velt-Marshal Scheremetow : but [2326] either
he was stopped by the artifice of the Turks or did not arrive in time, tho' he departed
from AdrPle 53 or 54 daies before the surrendry of Assac, or else there was some
Negligence on the part of the Velt-Marschal, and so the Execution was not prevented.
When Monsr Schaphiroff sent away the abovementioned Obligations of the Divan of
the Army, the Pretension of the Cossacks was not started by the Vizir, but artificiously
dissembled and Monsr Schaphiroff did not make due reflexion on the word Barabashi.
Tho' he saies in this Memorial (which I transmitted Your Lop in my last) that there
is only mention of the Zaporowski Cossacks in the Turkish Instrument, it is a mistake
by the Muscovites own confession. The word Barabashi is in the Turkish Instru-
ment, but not in the Turkish Translation of the Russe Instrument, which Translation
having been several times produced by the Reis Effendi, Monsr Schaphiroff thought
to make his advantage of it. I am . . . x
[Enclosures]
[142a] Let. A. The last Reply of the Lords Ministers Plenipotentiarys
upon the point of the Evacuation of Poland.
His Czarish Majty will cause to march out of Poland his Troops which are in
the hithermost part of the s a Poland in the space of 30 Days, and those that are
in the furthermost part of that Country, his Czarish Maj*^'8 own Orders being neces-
sary for that purpose, will he cause to march out of Poland in the Term of 3 Months :
And he will nor concern himself with the affairs of the Government of the Poles,
nor for the future will he under any pretence send back his Forces into Poland;
and thus no Muscovite Troops remaining in Poland, one may then say that his
Czarish Ma*v will have actually withdrawn his hand from Poland in pursuance of
the Treaty concluded with the Splendid Porte. But if the King of Sweden or his
Troops enter into Poland and solicite the Poles to stirr them up against his Czarish
Ma*y and they joyn with the said King or with his Troops, and so the
Enemys Intentions to make Warr become evident, That in such case the Muscovite
Troops may freely enter into Poland and act against their Enemys in an hostile
manner, and that this shall not be lookt upon by the Splendid Porte to be a Rupture
of the Peace.
[146a] Let. B. The Splendid Porte will please to send the King of Sweden to
his own Country, however no time or Route is prescribed. Yet after the Delivery
of Asoph, the Demolishing of Taganrock, when the matter of the Cossacks shall
have been debated and adjusted, as also his Majty'8 withdrawing his hand from
Poland in the manner exprest in the first Article, and when the same shall be fully
1
This paragraph is in Sutton's own hand.
complyd with ; then shall the Porte positively without further Delay send the said
King to his own Country by such Route as they shall think fit. And if the Splendid
Porte thinks fit to send the forementioned King thro' the Muscovite Territorys
till he arrives in his own Country, neither he nor his Troops which are now with
him, nor those that shall be appointed him by the Splendid Porte to accompany
him (the number whereof shall not exceed some few Hundreds) shall do any Damage
or Injury to the Russians or to Russia : So likewise in the abovesaid King's Passage
till he arrives in his own Country, no Damage or Injury shall, on the part of his
Czarrish Ma*y or his subjects, be done to him or his Troops or those which shall be
appointed for his Guard by the Splendid Porte, but they may pursue their Journey
in safety, and the Troops that shall be sent by the Splendid Porte shall not have
any Damage or Injury done them in their Return, but may go home in safety.
But if the Splendid Porte [1466] sends the said King to his own Country through
Poland, the Troops which shall be appointed by the Porte to accompany him shall
not be employed by him in any thing besides the attending him as a guard for the
security of his own Person, which ought not to meddle with any other matter;
and the Troops which are now with the King and those that shall be sent with him
by the Splendid Porte shall not in their March make any Disturbance or Confusion
in that Nation; Nor yet during the abovenamed King's Stay in the Ottoman
Territorys shall he or his Troops give occasion to any prejudice or Rupture of the
Peace between his Czarish Ma*y and the Splendid Porte which is made perpetual.
[150a] Let. C. And when the splendid Porte shall think fit to send home the
King of Sweden, they may do it at their pleasure, nor is the Time or Route prescribed.
However when the Article relating to the Cossacks shall have been debated and
settled in such manner as shall be agreed upon; as also the Czar's withdrawing
his hand from Poland; that the Fortress of Azof shall have been delivered up and
that of Taganrock demolished, and all the conditions entirely fulfilled: Then the
Splendid Porte ought without delay to send the King of Sweden home by such
Route as they shall think proper. And in case the Splendid Porte shall send the
said King thro' Muscovy, neither he nor his Troops nor those which shall be appointed
by the Splendid Porte to accompany him, shall during his journey till he arrives
in his own Country, do any Injury or Damage to the Muscovites or their Country.
So likewise the said King in his journey till he arrives in his own Country, neither
he nor his Army, nor the Troops which shall be assigned him by the Splendid Porte,
shall have any Damage or Injury done them by his Czarish Ma*v or by the Muscovites,
but may go in safety ; and in like manner after he shall be arrived, when the Troops
of the Splendid Porte shall march back neither then shall any Damage or Injury
be done them by the Muscovites, but they may return in safety.
2 April 1712
My Lord
The advice of the surrendry of Assac (which was so unexpected, that Ivas
Pashaw had not above 60 men with him to receive it, the rest being returned to
no DESPATCHES OF SIR ROBERT SUTTON
Taman) hath been followed with those of the Turkish Garrison's Entry into that
place and the entire Demolition of Taganrog. The circumstances of this Proceeding
while the Differences were depending, gave an apprehension that the Turks would,
pursuant to their old Maximes and Customes, improve the opportunity to push
their other Pretensions further then they did before. But it hath since appeared,
that their chief aim was to get possession of Assac, and procure the razing of Taganrog,
since the news whereof they have in effect wholly given up their demand of Ucraina,
then which nothing can be a more evident token of their aversion to a War in those
parts. I shall do my self the honour in a few daies to give your Lord? a particular
accompt of the Series and Circumstances of the Negotiation, the suddennesse of this
conveyance not allowing me time to enlarge your Lord? trouble at present. Where-
fore I shall only acquaint you, that they are now come to terms of Agreement,
and my next will bring your Lord** the conclusion of their new Convention, unlesse
the Sultan shall desire other alterations, as he hath frequently done already on
the suggestions [2596] of the Tartar Han, Suedes, French and malecontent Poles.
The three articles inclosed Let. A, have been perused and approved by his Highness
and will passe without any other Difference then the leaving out and changing a few
words in the last, the Port accepting the four Muscovite ships at the price agreed
with the late Capitan Pashaw, and allowing the ammunition and naval stores left
at Taganrog and Assac to be disposed of at those places or transported into the Czar's
Dominions, but not to be carried to Kersi, Taman or any other of the Sultan's Ports
and there sold. The article touching the evacuation of Poland hath remained for
some time as your LordP will find it herewith Let. B. and tho' it wants being reduced
into better form, was esteemed to be agreed and passed, having been approved in
a great Council held the 16th Febr. and there signed, sealed and delivered by the
Muscovite Plenipotentiaries, without any objection thereto 'till to day, upon the
arrival of the Under Master of the Horse from the Tartar Han, who is at Bender,
the Sultan hath required a new clause to be inserted for preventing the Czar's
Troops staying in or returning into Poland under pretence of their being transferred
to any other Prince, on occasion of which we are summoned to a Conference to
morrow morning.
The Plenipotrles> Declaration concerning the King of Sueden's Passage home,
which is annexed [260a] under Let. C. leaves that matter very much to the discretion
of the Port. That Prince having positively refused to retire any other way then
thro' Poland, the Ministers of the Port have declared their Design to conduct him
thro' that Country, imagining they may concert and regulate the Circumstances of
his passage with the Poles by Our interposition. But they have hitherto made no
steps towards it, intending to explain themselves with us further about it after the
Treaty with the Muscovites is come to a conclusion. They are versed in matters
of that nature, and have not duely considered the difficulties with which such an
undertaking is attended, so that the Sultan, as well as the Tartar Han, having
hitherto in appearance favoured the King of Sueden, and the former esteeming both
his honour and interest concerned in conveying that Prince safe to his own Dominions,
we cannot yet foresee how that affair will be managed.
I have received advice to day from the Port, that Firman for stopping the
DESPATCHES OF SIR ROBERT SUTTON in
departure of the Janissaries from Egypt is already dispatched, and those for counter-
manding all the Asiatick Forces have for some daies been ready to be sent away
as soon as the Treaty shall be finished and signed.
The Capitan Pashaw is designed with the Gallies for Assac to put that place
into a [261a] better condition and provide it with canon and ammunition. I am . . .
[247a] [Letter A]
Let. A. The Fortress of Assack lying upon the Limits of the Frontier of the
Splendid Porte, and that of Circaski likewise upon the Confines of the Frontiers of
his Czarish Majesty's they are Frontier places, and as the building of new Forts
between those two places might give occasion to Troubles and Broyls : Neither one
party nor the other shall have power to erect Fortifications between those two
places. Therefore the Fortress or Buildings in the nature of Fortifications newly
erected between the Fortress of Assack and that of Circasky and situate within the
Territory of the latter, for the laying up the Ammunition taken out of Asack at
the time of its being yielded to the Splendid Porte and out of Taganrock from the
time it has been demolishing, shall be demolished and destroyed within 4 months
from the Day of Signing the present Convention.
The Fortress of Chiovia with its Dependencies and Palancks lying on this side
the Boristhenes and the Cossacks with their Country on the other side that River
being in the possession of his Czarish Majesty shall still remain in his said Czarish
Majesty's Possession according to their ancients Limits; And except the Fortress
of Chiovia with its Dependencys and Palanks his Czarish Majesty shall [2476] wholly
withdraw his hand from the Cossacks and their Country according to its ancient
Limits, from their Forts and all their Lands on this side the Boristhenes; And his
Czarish Majesty shall also take off his hand from the Peninsula of Setchia situate on
the same River and adjoyning to this side of it.
It being exprest in the Instrument of the Peace which was agreed upon, that
the Fortress of Assack should be restored in the State it was in when it was lately
taken, together with its Territory and other Dependencys, and its being asserted on
the part of the Splendid Porte that when it was taken by his Czarish Majesty there
were in it 60 pieces of Brass Canon; but that when the said Fortress was now
delivered up to the Splendid Porte the said Brass Guns were now not left there, but
Iron ones in their stead. Now the Splendid Porte laying claim to the Restitution
of the said sixty brass Guns, that they may be brought to light with all possible
Expedition strict Enquiry shall be made, and such as shall be found in being shall
without delay be restored by his Czarish Majesty to the Splendid Porte, and such
as are not to be found shall be paid for in mony according to their value. And when
the Canon in kind or their value in mony is restored, then shall the Iron Guns left
in their room be given back to his Czarish Majesty [248a]. And as to the Four
Muscovite Vessels that came from the black Sea with their Canon, Rigging and
Ammunition according to the Inventory given to the Captain Bashaw; If the
Splendid Porte will accept of them at the prizes lately settled with the Captain
H2 DESPATCHES OF SIR ROBERT SUTTON
Bashaw the same shall be made good to his Czarish Majesty, and if they are not
accepted, as for the future there will not remain any port to the Czar into which these
Ships should go, there is no possibility of sending them home, and therefore he shall
not be hindered from selling the said ships with all their Guns and Rigging to any
that will buy them; as likewise the Ammunition, Provisions, Naval and Warlike
Stores, left at Assack and Taganrock by the Admiral of his Czarish Majesty's
Squadron, shall all be made good to the Splendid Porte at the prizes agreed upon with
its Officers ; but if the Splendid Porte will not accept of them, his Czarish Majesty
shall have liberty to transport them upon the River Tanais to such place as he shall
think fit of his own Dominions without any impediments, or to sell them in the
Territorys of the Splendid Porte as in Crimea, at the new Fortress, Chievsi, Taman
and other places in those parts, without any molestation whatever.1
[241a] [Letter B]
Let. B. His Czarish Majesty shall cause those Troops of his that are the hither-
most part of Poland to depart out of that Kingdom in the space of One Month, and
as to those which are in the furthermost part of Poland, his Czarish Majesty's own
orders being necessary for that purpose, he shall withdraw them out of Poland in
three Month's time, and he will not intermeddle with the Government of the Affairs
of the Poles, and for the future he will not under any pretence whatsoever send his
Troops back into Poland: And thus no Muscovite Troops remaining in Poland he
will then have taken off his hand from that Kingdom in pursuance of the Articles
agreed on with the Splendid Porte. But if the King of Sweden or even his Troops
enter into Poland and excite the Poles against his Czarish Majesty and that they
joyn with the King of Sweden and thus the Enemys evil Intention to make warr
becomes evident, in such case the Muscovite Troops may enter again into Poland
and it shall be lawfull for them to act in an hostile manner against their Enemys,
nor shall the Splendid Porte look upon this as a Breaking of the Peace.
The Muscovite Plenipotentiarys were asked concerning their Troops which are
in the further [241&] part of Poland, for the Departure of which in the Space of three
Months they say his Czarish Majesty's Orders are necessary : whether they will not
say hereafter that they imparted this to his Czarish Majesty but he would not consent
to it, or will not find out some other pretence or Excuse, and whether they will promise
that nothing shall be done to the contrary, and further whether the Ambassadors
Mediators give credit to this. The foresaid Plenipotentiarys made answer that when
the Peace is granted, they engage the said Troops shall [ ] 2 out of Poland in
the space of three Months from that Day on which they shall dispatch the account
to his Czarish Majesty and that the Lords Ambassadors Mediators do also confirm
that the abovesaid Plenipotentiarys are empowered in this behalf and do engage
for the performance thereof. Therefore this is so stipulated and annexed to the
Article concerning Poland.3
1
2
The Italian version
3
is given on fo. 245.
This word is illegible. The Italian version is given on fo. 243.
[239a] ' [Letter C]

Let. C. Wee the undernamed Ministers Plenipotentiarys of his Czarish Majesty
do declare by these presents and in the name of his Czarish Majesty Our Master do
bind ourselves, That at whatever time and by whatever way the Splendid Porte
shall send home the King of Sweden, his Czarish Majesty and those under him shall
not secretly or openly give him any Impediment in his passage. And that till he
be arrived in his own Country neither he, nor his Troops, nor those which shall be
appointed him by the Splendid Porte shall Suffer any private or open injury or
prejudice from his Czarish Majesty or his Subjects. And likewise in their Return the
Troops of the Splendid Porte marching in the manner abovementioned, no injury or
prejudice shall be done them but the way shall be left free for them. But that the
said King in his Journey nor his people shall not do any damage or prejudice to his
Czarish Majesty or to his Troops or his Subjects. In Testimony whereof we have signed
the present Obligation with our hands and Sealed the Same with our Seals.
N.B. The Ministers of the Port some days after the Great Council, held the 16 of
February, insisted that the whole following Clause should be left out: But
the Muscovite plenipotentiarys only consented to strike out the words under
which a Line is drawn. Since that time the ministers of the Port have never
declared their satisfaction or dissatisfaction wherewith, or made the least
mention of this Act.1

7 April 1712
My Lord,
I have now the honour to acquaint your Lordship, that on the 5th instant a
Truce for the term of 25 years was concluded between the Czar and the Sultan,
and the same evening the Treaties were Exchanged in the Turkish and Russe Lan-
guages, the one signed and sealed by the Vizir Azem and the other by the Czar's
Plenipotentiaries with a Translation in Italian annexed, whereof the inclosed is
Copy. It was translated from the Turkish Instrument drawn up by the Reis
Effendi as near as was possible, and almost verbatim, as your Lordship will observe
by the form, tenour and Stile of it. The Circumstances of this Negotiation have
been very singular in all respects', the Muscovites being forced to 'treat upon a very
unequal foot, and submit to the unfairest and most disorderly dealing, that can be
imagined, especially since the surrendry of Assac and demolition of Taganrog, while
the Turks were altogether as desirous of Peace as the Czar, tho' it be more seasonable
and necessary on his Majesty's side. The Sultan placing no confidence in his Ministers
hath all along reserved the Management of the Treaty to himself [69b] And the Vizir
Azem, as well as his Highnesses Commissaries, having no power to agree to any
Proposals they only received ad referendum the Plenipotentiarie's Answers upon
the Sultan's Demands, whereof I transmitted your Lordship a Translation, and his
1
The Italian version is given on fo. 237.
ii4 DESPATCHES OF SIR ROBERT SUTTON
Commissaries reported all that passed in the Conferences immediately to his High-
nesse, the Vizir not being able to govern the least matter. The Commissaries had
signified the Sultan's approbation of the Plenipotentiaries Answers touching the
Evacuation of Poland and the King of Sueden's departure and Passage, which your
Lordship will have received with my Letter of January the 12th, before the news of
the Surrendry of Assac arrived, which was on the 4th of February. There was
another Conference appointed the 12th d° in which, after the Plenipotentiaries
had consented to the Addition made to the Article touching the Muscovites retiring
out of Poland, the Reis Effendi produced the inclosed Article about the King of
Sweden's passage home Let. A, wherein the Clause of his departing without delaj'
is omitted. Nevertheless the Plenipotentiaries agreed to it as far as it concerned
Prince's passage thro' the Czar's Countries, provided the Number of his Escorte
should be determined and not exceed 1000 men. They offered likewise to accept the
other part relating to his passage thro' Poland on condition, that the same Declara-
tions, which the Commissaries had made in former Conferences by word of [70a]
mouth, should be added to the Article, viz that neither the King of Sueden, nor his
Troops and Attendants, nor the Troops which the Port should appoint to conduct
him, should breed any disturbances or commit any Hostilities in Poland, but keep
good Order and discipline, and passe quietly and amicably, paying in ready mony
for what they should receive. After which the Reis Effendi withdrawing, the other
Commissaries after having entred into some discourse upon the businesse of the
Cossacks, retired likewise without determining anything.
The Vizir, who hath all along warmly promoted the Adjustment of the differences
with the entire Concurrence and Union of the Mufti, Chief Men of the Law, Sheiks,
Heads of the Several Orders of Souldiery, Supported with the universal inclination
and bent of the people, concerned to see the Sultan allow the French, Suedes and
Malcontent Poles, who acted in concert with the Tartar Han's friends, several Canals
to convey their Representations to him, and apprehending that his Highnesse would
raise difficulties and form new Pretensions upon the Lights and Informations that
they gave him thought it time to make a step for securing the successe of the Treaty.
With that view He first explained himself privately with the Plenipotentiaries about
the Affair of the Cossacks, and then assembled a great Council the 14th of February.
That morning, before the Council met, he sent for the Muscovite Secretary [70b]
and Druggerman to the Port, where, pursuant to the Directions of the Plenipotenti-
aries He made the Declaration which I transmitted to your Lordship under that
Date, which was approved by the Council and judged to be all, that the Czar was
obliged to upon that point by virtue of the late Treaty. This was represented to the
Sultan, and on the 16th I was called with the Dutch Embassador and the Muscovite
Plenipotentiaries to another Great Council, where were present the Vizir Azem,
Mufti; the Vizirs of the Bench, the old and present Cadileskiers, the Schechs, all the
Head Officers of the Orders of Militia and the Sultan's Commissaries. In this Council
the Plenipotentiaries avowed the Declaration made two daies before by their
Secretary and Druggerman in their Name, and likewise confirmed their Answer
touching the King of Sueden's departure and passage to his own Dominions, insisting
still upon a reciprocal Engagement from the Port to the Effect above mentioned,
which the Vizir was inclined to grant; but Ali Aga the Sultan's Capigilar Kehayase,
disgusted at the Vizir's proceeding with the Muscovite Secretary, very boldly opposed
and diverted it. Whereupon at the persuasion of the Council, the Plenipotentiaries
receded from their Pretension of a Declaration in writing, and contented themselves
with the verbal promise of the Council, that the Port would treat with the Poles
concerning the King of Sueden's passage thro' that Kingdome, that their Troops
should commit [71a] no disorders, but observe good discipline, and pay for what they
had occasion of, and that the Firman or Order to the rCommander of their said Troops
should be communicated to me and the Dutch Emb . Afterwards the Plenipotenti-
aries at the desire of the Council signed sealed and delivered the Article relating to
the Evacuation of Poland, and promised to give in the inclosed Declaration Let.B.
under their hands and seales, which was accordingly done the 21th of the same
month. About the same time a Capigi Bashai was dispatched to the Tartar Han with
the Result of the Great Council, upon which the Sultan's Commissaries being wholly
broken off by the Vizir's proceeding with'the Muscovite Druggerman and the disgusts
that ensued thereupon, the Vizir sent for me and the Dutch Emb r . and insisted
very earnestly on the following particulars. i° That the Plenipotentiaries would
strike out of their Declaration touching the King of Sueden's passage the last clause,
which runs in these words, Mata ch'ilnasudetto Re, ne la sua gente, che si trovera appresso
di lui, non rechino a Sua M Cz alle sue Truppe e alii suoi sudditi alcun danno
ne pregiudizio, which the Vizir said was needlesse, since the Porte's resolution was
to conduct that Prince thro' Poland, 2° That they would recede from that Clause
in the Article of Poland, which allows the Czar to send his Troops back into [716]
that Kingdome, in case after the King of Sueden's arrival in his own Dominions,
His Majesty or his Troops should return into it and the Poles join with him. 3 0 That
they would cede some part or district of Ucraina, either beyond or on this side the
Boristhenes, to content the Sultan, from whome these new Demands come, upon
which we had a meeting with the Plenipotentiaries. Upon the first point they only
yielded to take out these words e alii suoi sudditi; giving for their reason that the
Czar having Troops in Pomerania, it was not just that they should be obliged to
give the King of Sueden free passage without a reciprocal provision, that he should
not do them any harm in his way home. They absolutely refused to comply with
the 2d and upon the 3d to make a shew of yielding somewhat, they promised to raze
the castle of Kudack and abandon the place, which they knew to be already done,
and to cede the Peninsulsa of Setchia, which being on this side the Boristhenes was
in Effect no new concession. In these terms things remained ' till the return of
the Capigi Bashi from the Tartar Han at Bender. His answer was conformable
to the result of the great Council, which he dared not to oppose, and that was all
they desired, and enough to authorize them in their Proceedings. Wherefore
assembling anew, they perused the Han's Representation, and resolved that a Peace
ought to be concluded upon the Conditions proposed [72a], and that it was not
necessary that either the Sultan, or the Vizir with the Sangiacks should take the
field but would be sufficient in their present occasion and circumstances to appoint
a Seraskier to command the Troops, which should be designed for the Frontiers.
But altho' the Tartar Han in his answer upon the result of the great Council complied
n6 DESPATCHES OF SIR ROBERT SUTTON
with their sentiments, He wrote a letter to the Sultan containing many Reflections
upon what had been transacted, and what was further requisite to be stipulated.
Whereupon by the Sultan's Directions the Vizir first required the razing of the
Fortifications begun upon the Lower point of the Island of the Don, on which Cercaski
stands, the relinquishing the Peninsula of Setchia in expresse terms, and the Restitu-
tion of the Brasse Canon, which was in Assac when that place was taken by the
Czar's Arms, all which demands were granted by the Plenipotentiaries with some
modifications as couched in the Articles, which I have transmitted your Lordship
in my last of the 2nd. instant. What regards the 4 Muscovite Ships, and the
Ammunitions and Naval Stores left at Assac and Taganrog, was left out, the Sultan
accepting the Ships at the Prices agreed with the late Capitan Pashaw, pursuant
whereto they have been brought into Port and according to form of Law delivered
by the Muscovites to the said late Capitan Pashaw, and an Imperial Command
hath been granted for [72b] selling the Ammunitions and Stores upon the places,
where they are, or transporting them by way of the Don to the Czar's own country.
On the 1st instant the Sultan's Under Master of the Horse arrived from the
Tartar Han still at Bender with new dispatches, on occasion of which and of the
Suggestions and Artifices of the Suedes and their friends the French and Venetians
new Pretensions were formed. In a Conference held on the 3rd instant the Pleni-
potentiaries agreed to expresse the liberty allowed to the Port to rebuild the Fort
called Petroski in an Island of the Don opposite to Assac, alledging the reason thereof
to be its belonging to the Fortifications of Assac, which implies a like power on the
Czar's side to augment the works of his Frontier places. This the Vizir declared
several times to be lawfull but would not consent to the mention thereof in the Treaty.
We further settled the Clause providing that the Czar should not leave any of his
Troops in Poland, under pretence of their being transported to any other Prince,
in the terms wherein it now stands in the Treaty, which are much more favourable
then those wherein it was couched at first by the Reis Effendi. On the 4th the
Vizir by Violence, high words and menaces extorted the Clause following, E per
la sudetta causa venendo a Seguir Battaglia tra la Maesta Cz.na e il Re di Suezia nella
Polonia, se poi doppo la Battaglia uscisse ta[73a] dalla Medema la Maesta sua Suezze
con le sue Truppe, e si ritirasse, sua M. Cz.na anche non possa trattenersi, ma
con tutte le Sue Truppe si ritiri, e sotto verun pretesto vi restino delle Truppe Musco-
vite nella Polonia. Several temperaments were offered, but were rejected by the
Vizir, who would admit of no alteration or modification; so that at length, tho'
with some reluctancy, the Plenipotentiaries submitted to it, to put an end to the
Treaty, considering that there was more hardnesse then consequence in it, and
that if the case should happen, which is unlikely, the Czar would be in a condition
to revenge himself upon the Poles, who should have joined with the Suedes, without
any great reason to apprehend the Port's putting itself in motion to resent the same
(which would not so nearly concern them).1 The rest of that day and the 5th were
spent in preparing the Instruments, which were signed and sealed by the Parties,
and exchanged that Evening. I cannot describe to your Lordship the hurry and
1
The phrase enclosed in brackets is a later addition, possibly in the hand of Sir Robert
Sutton.
confusion of the last three daies, and with how much heat and violence the Vizir
pressed the conclusion of the Treaty, being harrassed and weary of the Novelties,
which came from the Sultan, which it was not in his power to alter in the least;
so that all the temperaments and Modifications proposed [736] were sent to the
Sultan for his approbation.
The Firmans for countermanding the March of the Asiatick Troops are dis-
patched, and other Firmans directed to some of the Pashaws of Rumelia are preparing,
ordering them to keep themselves with the Spahis of their Governments, which
may amount to 12,000 or 15,000 horse, in a readinesse to march to Bender to conduct
the King of Sueden home, Ismael Pasha of that place being appointed Seraskier.
We are now expecting to see what further measures they will take relating to that
Prince's departure and passage.
The Grand Signor's behaviour in this whole affair hath very much puzzled the
world, His Highnesse having all along expressed such an inclination to go into the
field, that it was apprehended to be real not only by the people and all the Heads
of the Law and soldiery, but also by his Ministers, who on their part shewed too
great a forwardnesse and facility, as they were left to their own conduct. I am
persuaded, that his Highnesse at the bottome was very desirous of Peace, but must
acknowledg that his feinte of being strongly inclined, and even resolved to go into
thefield,hath been carried on very far, and with all the Art imaginable. I conceive
the reasons of it to have been 1. That he was willing to appear, as it were, induced
against his Will to Peace, that he might the more handsomely excuse himself to the
King of Sueden [74a] and Tartar Han upon the failure of the Hopes and promises
he had given them. 2. That he might have a better opportunity and more time to
consult them, and wrest better conditions from the Muscovites. 3. That, apprehend-
ing the present Treaty may not intirely answer the Design of it in the future, and
considering that Difficulties still remain behind with regard to the King of Sueden's
passage home, the Great Council might take upon their own Account the successe
and consequences of the Peace and the omission of so fair an opportunity to carry
on the War, pursuant to which He hath caused a Copy of the Treaty of Peace to
be delivered to him subscribed and sealed by all the Members of the Great Council.
4. That he might keep the Muscovites in suspense, as long as was possible, and
oblige them to the expence and inconvenience of making Preparations for a Campaign
and retaining their Forces upon these Frontiers. And 5. To allow time for raising
the Contributions of the people, and the Taxes upon the Malikianes' held by lease
for lives, which amount to a very large sum, the payment whereof is slow in the
remote Provinces, and would have been stopped as soon as the Lessees, should have
known the change of his Highnesse's design of going to the War.
The reasons I have to believe that his Highnesse had not so strong an inclination
as he shewed, to renew the War are 1. His referring himself from the beginning to
the advice of his Great Council, who he very well knew would oblige him to observe
the late Treaty of Peace, as soon as. the Execution thereof [74b] on the Czar's part
could be procured, reserving only to himself the raising of Difficulties and forming
new Pretensions, as he saw convenient, whereas, if he had had a real intention to
renew the War, he would have taken other measures, and not have wanted Pretexts
n8 DESPATCHES OF SIR ROBERT SUTTON
sufficient for his purpose. 2. The early forbidding the Expedition of the Tartars,
tho' they were in a readinesse, least their incursions should raise new Imbroils and
obstruct the Confirmation of the Peace. 3. His great avarice, which renders all
occasions of spending his Treasure odious to him. 4. The Preparations, as well for
the Campaign as his own removal from Court, have been inconsiderable, backward,
and more proper for shew then for any real undertaking, and have occasioned almost
no Charges, tho' the season was advancing. I have been unavoidably obliged to
some expences in this Negotiation, whereof I shall beg leave to lay the Account
before your Lordship, and humbly intreat your Lordship's favour and Protection
in representing the same to the Queen, and moving Her Majesty to approve and allow
them. I am. . . .
P.S. I believe I may assure your Lordship, that the Suedes and French had formed
fine projects upon the Renewal of the War with Muscovy, with which
they flatter'd themselves 'till the very day that the Treaty of Truce was
signed, upon the deceitful hopes and fair words, which were given them by
their Turk friends, by whose means they managed their intrigues. Their
disappointment hath cast them into such confusion and mortification, as
your Lordship will better conceive then I can expresse. I need not make any
Reflections upon the wording of the Treaty which your Lordship will observe
to be very imperfect. That of the leaving the Ucraina in the Czar's possession1
are the only advantages he hath by it, besides the prevention of a new War.
[78d]
In the Name of the Most Holy Trinity.
Whereas since the Conclusion of the Treaty of a perpetual Peace, near the
River Pruth between his Czarish Majesty (of all Russia) and his Sultanish Majesty
certain Disputes have arisen for the adjusting of which both parties have consented
to desire the Mediation of the Most Excellent Sir Robert Sutton Ambassador from
Her Majesty the Queen of Great Britain, and the most Excellent James Colyer
Count of the Roman Empire and of Hungary Ambassador of the High and Mighty
Lords the States General of the United Provinces of the Low Countries both residing
with his Sultanish Majesty praying them that they would in the Name of their
High Masters, by their Interposition procure an accomodation and an adjusting of
the said Disputes between both partys; Which the said Lords in pursuance of the
Orders they received from their Masters having accepted, and by their Interposition
and Mediation, in the Conferences lately held between us Ministers plenipotentiarys
of his Czarish Majesty the Vicechancelor of State, privy Councellor and Knight of
the White Eagle and of Generosity, Baron Peter Schaphiroff, and Major General
Count Michael Scheremetew, and the Most Illustrious and Excellent Lord Isuph
Bashaw Grand Vizier of His Sultanish Majesty we have treated of [786] the following
Articles stipulated in the former Treaty of Peace ; partly for explaining them and
partly for compleating them where it should be necessary and have agreed and
concluded as follows.
1
Duplicates of this letter and the enclosures were sent by Sir Robert Sutton with a later
letter. The text of the postscript in the duplicate version (fo. 526) differs slightly in its wording
from the text printed here. The substance remains unchanged.
1.
His Czarish Majesty shall cause to march out of Poland his Troops which are
in the hithermost part of that Country in the space of One Month from the signing
of this Instrument, and as to those Troops which are in the furthermost parts of
Poland, his Czarish Majesty's own Orders being necessary for that purpose, he shall
cause them to march out of Poland in the space of three Months, and his said Czarish
Majesty shall not leave any of his Muscovite Troops in Poland under pretence that
they were dismisd from his Service either before or since the signing of this Instru-
ment and that they are none of his Troops; Nor shall any of them remain there
under this pretext or Excuse, but he shall cause all his Troops to depart out of
Poland in the space of three Months : And he shall not intermeddle in the Manage-
ment of the affairs of the Poles, nor for the future under any pretence shall he send
back his Troops into Poland, but he shall totally withdraw his hand from that
Country. But if the King of Sweden or even his Troops shall enter into Poland and
shall stir up and excite the Poles against his Czarish Majesty and they joyn with the
King of Sweden [79a] and thus the evil Intention of the Enemy to begin a War
becomes manifest; that in this case the Muscovite Troops may again enter into
Poland and it shall be lawfull for them to act in an hostile manner against their
Ennemy, and this shall not be lookt upon by the Splendid Porte as a Rupture of the
Peace. And upon such an occasion a Battle ensuing in Poland between his Czarish
Majesty and the King of Sweden, if after such Battle his Swedish Majesty shall depart
out of that country with his Troops and shall retire, then may not his Czarish Majesty
remain there, but shall retire with all his Troops and no Muscovite Troops shall
under any Pretence remain in Poland.
2.
When the Splendid (Sublime) Porte shall think fit to send the King of Sweden
home to his own Country, she shall do it by what Way she thinks fit, and neither
the time nor the way shall be prescribed to her ; And if the Splendid Porte should
think proper to send the said King thro' the Territory of Muscovy till he arrives
in his own Country, neither he nor his Troops nor those which shall be appointed
by the Splendid Porte to accompany him may openly or secretly do any Injury
or Damage to the Russian Dominions or to the Muscovites. In like manner, his
Czarish Majesty nor the Muscovites or other his Subjects shall [796] not openly
or secretly do any Damage or Injury to the King of Sweden in his Journey till he
arrives in his own Country nor to his Troops or those which shall be appointed
by the Splendid Porte to accompany him, but they may march forwards sound and
safe. And when the foresaid King shall be arrived in his own Country the Troops
of the Splendid Porte in their Return shall not, openly or privately receive any
Damage or Injury from the Muscovites and Subjects trf his Czarish Majesty but shall
be allowed to march home unhurt and safe.
3-
The Fortress of Chiovia with its Territory and the Palanks belonging to the
said Fortress that lye on this side the Boristhenes as also the Cossacks and their
Country situate on the other side of that River being in the possession of his Czarish
Majesty shall accordingly remain in his said Majesty's possession with their ancient
Limits; and except the Fortress of Chiovia with its Territory and the Palanks
belonging to the said Fortress his Czarish Majesty shall wholly withdraw his hand
from the Cossacks and their Country with its ancient Limits, from their Territorys,
Fortresses and Palanks that lye on this side of the Boristhenes, and his Czarish
Majesty shall also take off his hand from the Peninsula of Seccia in the same River
which joyns to this side of it. And the Cossacks that are left to his Czarish Majesty
[8o«] shall not openly or secretly do any Damage to the Inhabitants of Crimea nor
to the Inhabitants of the Turkish Provinces belonging to the Splendid Porte, nor
do them any injury or prejudice contrary to this peace ; and if they make any
Steps that are against the peace, his Czarish Majesty shall not frame Excuses by
saying they are not Muscovites but Cossacks, but he shall punish them and forbid
them to committ such Enormitys. In like manner also the Nation of the Tartars-
and the Cossacks which are on the side of the Splendid Porte shall not do any Damage
or Injury, contrary to the Peace either to the Muscovites or to the Cossacks that
remain with his Czarish Majesty but if they make any step contrary to the Peace
they shall be punished by the Splendid Porte.
4-
The Fortress of Azof being situated on the Confines of the Frontier belonging
to the Splendid Porte, and likewise that of Circaschi on the Confines of the Frontier
belonging to his Czarish Majesty they are frontier places; and as the erecting any
new Fortress between these two places might give occasion to Troubles and Disturb-
ances, neither one Party nor the other shall have liberty to build any Forts between
those two places ; For this reason within four Months from the signing of this Agree-
ment shall be demolished [806] and destroyed the Fortresse or Buildings in the nature
of Fortifications newly erected between the Fortress of Assack and that of Circaski,
but upon the Territory of the latter, to lay up the Ammunition lately brought from
Azof upon its being surrendered to the Splendid Porte and from Taganrog when the
Demolishing it was begun. But whereas while the Fortresse of Azof was in the
possession of his Czarish Majesty he built a Fortification over against the said Fortress
upon the Bank of the River Tanais, which said fortification was demolished at the
time that the Fortress of Azof was surrendered to the Splendid Porte, and there
being nothing between Azof and the said ruinated Fortification, but the River
Tanais, and the abovesaid Fortification belonging to that of Azof, if the Splendid
Porte should desire to build a Fortress in the same place where that stood which was
demolished, it shall be lawfull so to do.
5-
It being mentioned in the Instrument of the peace lately concluded that the
Fortress of Azoph should be delivered up in the Condition it was in when it was last
taken, together with its Territory and other Dependencies, which Fortress when it
was taken by his Czarish Majesty had in it 60 pieces of Brass Canon, but when the
said Fortress was now delivered [81a] up to the Splendid Porte the said Brass Canon
were not left there, but Iron ones in their room ; to bring the said Canon to light that
they may be restored to the Splendid Porte with all diligence, a strict Enquiry shall
be made and those which shall be found in being shall without any Delay be restored
by his Czarish Majesty to the Splendid Porte and an equivalent price shall be given
to the said Porte for those which shall not be found in being, and when either the
Canon in kind or their price in mony are restored, the Iron Guns put in their room
shall be restored to his Czarish Majesty.
6.
Since the Treaty of Peace concluded on the Confines of Moldavia, the Fortress
of Caminchi and the new Fort situate at the mouth of the River Samar have been
demolisht, and it was agreed that for the future neither party might build any Fort
in that place; This Article shall be observed for the future so that it shall not be
lawfull for either Party to build any new Fort upon that Ground.
7-
And in the manner above mentioned a peace is now concluded for 25 years
successively from the Date of this Instrument, and during this time of the peace
both partys shall be careful to see that the articles thereof be observed ; and before
[81J] this Term expires if they are willing to prolong the Peace, it may be done
with the Consent of both Parties. And when the Conclusion of this Peace shall
have been notified to his Czarish Majesty and that his said Majesty shall have notified
his Ratification of it by his Letters and appointed an Ambassador to receive that of
the Porte, if besides the Articles of this Instrument the two partys are willing to add
some articles that may be advantagious and profitable to them both for the better
preserving of the good Friendship they have entered into with Sincerity and the
Agreements and Conventions stipulated in the 7 Articles above, Conferences shall
be held on this subject with the Ambassador to be appointed on the part of his
Czarish Majesty as aforesaid, and it shall be lawfull to add and insert the same in
the Ratification ; but if the two parties do not agree at that time upon new Articles
in the manner beforementioned then this present Treaty shall be confirmed and
ratified by the Splendid Porte, and the Agreements and Conventions stipulated in
the above recited Seven Articles, with us the Ministers Plenipotentiarys of his Czarish
Majesty shall be accepted and approved by his Czarish Majesty in pursuance of our
Full Power and with the Intervention and Testimony of the abovementioned Lords
Ambassadors Mediators. In Witness of all which here above written. We have
with our [826] own hands and Seales, signed and sealed this Instrument written in the
Muscovite Tongue an Italian Translation of it being thereunto annexed, and we
have exchanged it for an Instrument in the Turkish Language like and agreable to
it signed and sealed by the most Illustrious and Excellent Vizier Azem Isuf Bashaw.1
Given at Constantinople the 5th Day of April, Old Stile, in the year of our Lord 1712.
[253«]
Let. A. When the Splendid Porte shall think fit to send the King of Sweden
home to his own Country,
1
they may do it without being limited to any Time, or
The Italian version is given on fo. 65a.
Way. However if they send him home through the Muscovite Territorys, till he
arrives in his own Country, neither he nor his Troops nor those which shall
be appointed by the Splendid Porte to accompany him shall do any Damage or
Injury to the Muscovites or their Territorys ; so likewise the said King in his Journey
till he arrives in his own Country, neither his person, nor his Troops, nor those which
shall be sent by the Splendid Porte shall have any damage or injury done to them,
but may continue their March in Safety. And after he shall be arrived in his own
Country, the Troops of the Splendid Porte in their Return from thence shall not
have any damage or injury done them by the Muscovites, but that they may return
in safety. If there should be occasion for the Splendid Porte to send the said King
home by way of Poland, so that his affair comes to be treated of with the Poles and
there is no Agreement to be made about it with the Muscovites; You, to obviate
all jealousies which the Muscovites may have of the Swedes, whenever this Affair
[253&] shall be treated of, the Lords Ambassadors Mediators in these Conferences,
the same Lords Ambassadors shall be Mediators between the Splendid Porte and the
Poles in this Affair, to preserve a mutual Friendship and the Treatys, and to see
that nothing be done contrary to the Peace, that the Issue thereof may be prosperous.1
[251a]
Let. B. Wee the undernamed Ministers Plenipotentiarys of his Czarish Majesty
do declare by these presents and in the Name of his Czarish Majesty our Master
do bind ourselves, That in whatever time or by whatever way the Splendid Porte
shall send home the King of Sweden neither his Czarish Majesty nor those under
him, shall either secretly or openly give him any obstruction in his Journey. And
till he is arrived in his own Country neither he nor his Troops nor those which shall
be assigned him by the Splendid Porte shall receive any secret or open damage or
injury from his Czarish Majesty or his Subjects. So likewise in their Return, the
Troops of the Splendid Porte marching in the manner abovementioned shall not
have any damage or injury done them but shall have a free passage. But the
foresaid King in his Journey nor his people that shall accompany him shall not do
any Damage or Injury to his Czarish Majesty his Troops or his Subjects. In witness
whereof we have signed this present Obligation with our own hands and sealed it
with our own seals.2
[233«]
On Thursday the 14th February 1712 about 9 in the morning the Druggerman
of the Lords Plenipotentiarys came and declared what follows ; The said Druggerman
spoke in the manner following. That as to the Departure of the King of Sweden
the Lords Ambassadors Mediators shall be spoken with about it in a Day or two,
and an Answer shall be returned in such manner as shall be agreed.
Concerning the Affair of the Cossacks we do still referr ourselves to the Instru-
ment of the Peace. The Fortress of Chiovia with its Dependencies and Palancks
which lye on this side the Boristhenes as also the Cossacks and their Country situate
1
Italian versions of Letter A are given on fos. 59a and 63a.
2
Italian versions of Letter B are given on fos. 57a and 61 a.
on the other side of that River being in the possession of his Czarish Majesty are now
stipulated to remain in his said Czarish Majesty's possession.
His Czarish Majesty shall wholly withdraw his hand from the Cossacks, and their
Country their Fortresses and the Dependencies thereof which lye on this side the
Boristhenes, except the Fortress of Chiovia with its Dependencies and Palanks.1

19 April 1712
My Lord
In my last of the 7th current, whereof your LordP hath here the Duplicate least
the former may miscarry, I had the honour to acquaint your LordP that the
Asiatik Forces and the Janissaries of Egypt were countermanded, to which I have
now to add, that some Expresses arrived out of Anatolia give an account, that
they met the few Troops, which were in their March, returning home. There are
no Troops in Motion in Rumelia, except three Pashaws of two Tails with the
Sangiacks of their Governments, who are ordered to suppresse the Insurrection of the
Montenegrini, Inhabitants of Montains of Albania, who being of the Greek rite were
last year by the Czar's Emissaries excited to revolt, and remain yet in arms.
The Firman directed to the Pashaw of Sophia only injoins him to keep himself
in a readinesse with the Spahis of his Government who will not exceed six or 7000
men, and 'tis yet uncertain when he will march to Bender.
I must beg leave to refer Your LordP to the inclosed Copy of an Attestation,
which we have given the Muscovite Plenipotles for a more precise account of the
Declarations and Promises of the Port concerning the conducting the King of
Sueden thro' Poland to [846] His own Dominions, which were made by the Vizir
Azem with the concurrence of the Members of the great Council, held the 16th Feb-
ruary, upon which the Plenipotentiaries receded from their Pretension of an Act
in writing from the Port touching that Prince's Passage home. I must observe
to Your Lordship, that before we entred with the Plenipotentiaries into the Council,
the Druggerman of the Port was sent to us to inquire whether we would be Keffils
or security for the Czar's performance of his Engagements. This Proposal was made
in a very slight manner at the Motion of Soliman Pashaw and wholly upon the
Suggestion of the Suedes and their Adherents. Our Answer, shewing how improper
such a proposal was, very easily satisfied the Members of the Divan, who after our
Introduction made no further mention thereof. When the Prime Vizir told the
Plenipotentiaries, only pro forma, that we should be Keffils of their Promises con-
tained in the forementioned Attestation, we replied that we had no power to enter
into the least Engagement in favour of either Side, neither did the Plenipotentiaries
expect or desire it from us. By this account Your LordP will please to remark, both
how cautious we have been of laying our selves under any obligation, which indeed
was never insisted on, or so much as proposed in earnest, nor Her Majesty's and the
States General [85a] their Guaranty ever mentioned, and likewise the insincerity
1
I
and groundlessnesse of the Relations of these Suedish Ministers, that we should have
proposed a guaranty about two months before, when we first handed the Muscovite
Plenipotentiaries' Proposals to the Vizir Azem, which were the very same that they
themselves had made in a great Council some daies before, in which the Tartar
Han was present, at which time the Vizir Azem and Council offered them an Act
with the signatures and seals of all the Councellors, engaging to dispatch away
the King of Sueden with all possible speed in the manner specified in the above
mentioned attestation, in case they caused him to be conducted thro' Poland (withall
giving them hopes, that the Port might oblige His Majesty to passe thro' the
Emperor's States) which if the Plenipotles could have accepted, the peace would
in all appearance have been very suddenly clapt up, the Council being at that time
well enough satisfied with the other Propositions, and laying little stresse upon the
Tartar Han's Demand of the Ucraina. But the Plenipotles were tied up by their
Orders, and required that the King of Sueden should be sent away without delay,
and an officer on their part be permitted to see him advanced two daies in his march
without which they affirmed that they could not procure the execution of the late
Peace. Upon the Vizir's further assurances [856] under hand by their Druggerman,
they qualified their Pretension in the manner, which Your LordP may please to
observe in the 2d. Paragraph of the Memorial delivered to the said Vizir two or
three daies before we met them for the first time in the Old Reis Effendi's House,
at the desire of the Port.
Some time ago the Palatine of Kiovia was sent upon an Expedition, the particular
Design whereof is not yet known here, with a Body of Poles and Cossacks, said to
consist of about 4000 men. 'Tis supposed the Tartar Han and Ismael Pashaw,
Seraskier at Bender, not only connived at, but encouraged this undertaking. The
Vizir Azem and other Ministers of the Port positively disown their having been privy
to it and expresse their disapproval and dislike of it in such a manner, as very clearly
shews their concern least it should raise some new Imbroils and Confusion. They are
now concerting their measures for the King of Sueden's Departure, in Order to
which they will suddenly dispatch Achmet Aga, a man of great esteem and credit
in the Seraglio and formerly Chiaoux Bashi, to Bender with orders to the Tartar
Han and Ismael Pashaw to make the necessary Dispositions for that purpose. This
is an honour, which is done them : but 734. 2397 1 has assured that the Port hath
no Confidence in them, and that the Chief managem* of the Affair will be committed
to Achmet Aga. From Bender they are [86a] to dispatch an Officer into Poland with
a Polish Captain, who was sent hither some time ago by the Crown General Seniauski,
to whose letters the Vizir returns an answer, the substance whereof will be, that
the Port will admit the Palatine of Mazovia in quality of Embassr from the King
and Republick, and desires he may be dispatched without delay with a Full Power
and Instructions to treat and agree upon the King of Sueden's passage thro' that
Kingdome to his own States, adding assurances of the Port's friendship and fair
intentions to cause his Ma*y to be conducted in a peacable and quiet manner, paying
for all that He and his Attendants and the Troops of the Port shall have occasion
of on their March, and other Declarations conformable to those, which have been
1
An unresolved cipher.
made to the Muscovite Plenipotentiaries on that subject. The Tartar Han and
Ismael Pashaw are to dispatch Letters of the same tenour, the forms whereof will
be sent hence, with an Addition in the Pashaw's Letter to disavow the Palatine of
Kiovia's Expedition, and directions are sent to the Prince of Moldavia to write to
Monsr Seniauski to the same Effect, with his advice and invitation to dispatch the
Embassr to the Port, who is said to be waiting upon the Frontiers ready to pursue
his journy upon the first advice of the Port's consent to receive him. Your LordP
will observe, that according to these Measures, altho' the Poles should [86b] give
way to the Port's Proposal of His Suedish Majesty's passage, the Negotiation of it
will draw into Length, and the Winter probably come on before all things be brought
to a ripenesse for that undertaking. The Vizir Azem hath indeed assured the
Plenipotles that in case the Poles should decline granting the passage desired, the
Port will not quarrel with them on that account, but dispatch him another way,
meaning by Belgrade; But there are no measures yet taken for that purpose, nor
will be taken in all probability 'till after the refusal of the other Proposal. 'Tis
certain that the Vizir and all his party are very desirous to be rid of that Prince,
and the Plenipotentiaries have pressed that Minister very earnestly to send an Officer
of his own chusing into Poland with Commission and Instruction to treat and agree
upon the passage in question. But there is reason to believe, that the Port, wch
we surmise hath some Pretension upon the Poles in reserve (which possibly may only
relate to the Cossacks and setting their limits on that side) will defer all Treaty with
them 'till the arrival of their Ambass1, and not only detain but still amuse the King
of Sueden, keeping both the Port and Muscovites under jealousy and Umbrage to
facilitate their Affairs with Poland, and the Execution [87a] of what remains to
be performed on the Czar's part.
The Vizir hath never precisely limited the number of the Troops to be appointed
to Convoy His Suedish Majesty, but frequently declared that they will not exceed
six or 8000 men, to be commanded in Chief tyby Ismael Pashaw. A Sultan one of the
Tartar Han's sons is likewise to attend hisMa with a Retinue of about 500 Tartars.
I may safely assure your LordP that these people have never had any other
regard for the King of Sueden and his interests, then to make them subservient to
their- own ends, whereof it is wonderfull His Majesty should not be more sensible
then he appears to have been.
I am honoured with your LordP'8 Letter of the 28th February and rejoyce that
Her Majesty hath been pleased to approve my Conduct in the negotiation between
the Port and the Muscovites, wch I judged entirely Conformable to the last orders
I received from Your LordP and consequently dared not refuse to intervene upon the
Invitations and Instances of both parties, tho' I entred into the Treaty with so much
coldnesse and Reserve, that I drew several Reproaches upon my self from the Vizir, *
and have behaved my self during the whole course of it with so great caution, that
[87b] I am confident I have administred the King of Sueden no just occasion and
Offence or complaint, whatever the Suedish Ministers at this place, who are beyond
all Decorum in the French interest, may have represented to His Majesty for their
own excuse upon the frivolous and groundlesse hopes they had given him in con-
1
See Poniatowski's letter of 20 January 1712.
junction with the French Embassadr of the renewal of the War with the Czar, which
as your Lordp very well observes, in the present posture of the Affairs of Europe,
might be of the utmost ill consequence. Touching the bringing Her Majesty into
a Guaranty of any Treaty between the Czar and the Port, I need not trouble your
LordP with, any thing further then I have said upon that subject above.
I must not omit to acquaint your Lofp, that the Port designs to retain the
Cossacks, who either followed the King of Sueden or retreated of themselves into
this Country, under its own subjection, for which purpose the Vizir had vested
the Officers of that Nation that are here, and a considerable quantity of Corn, cattle
etca hath been ordered to be delivered them to enable them to make a settlement.
But they are a people unaccustomed to Agriculture and Husbandry, and 'tis believed
they will all retire elsewhere. I am . . .
[249a] [Enclosure]
Wee the underwritten Ambassadors of the Most Serene and potent Queen of
Great Britain and the Mighty Lords States General of the United Netherlands to the
Ottoman Sultan do make known and testify unto all whom it may concern ; That
whereas it hath often been declared on the part of the said Sultan, that he had
resolved, if there should be occasion, to take care that the most Serene King of Sweden
may be safely conveyed home to his own Dominions thro' Poland rather than any
other way, and that on the part of the most Serene and Potent Lord the Czar, the
most Illustrious and Excellent Lords his Ministers Plenipotentiarys having first
represented at large the obstacles and Difficultys of this Undertaking and the many
Mischiefs that might arise from thence, to the disturbance of the publick peace and
Tranquillity, did in vain greatly insist that the said most Serene King of Sweden
should rather be carryd home some other way if it were possible, or at least that
those articles which should appear to be proper and necessary for preventing the
said Mischiefs should be stipulated in Writing, But on the part of the Splendid Porte
it was constantly refused to treat or agree in express terms upon any matter relating
directly to Poland. However to remove all Jealousies that might be conceived of
any Disturbances being raised in Poland, a Great Council being held the 16th Day
of the last Month of February Old Stile at which [249J] we together with the foresaid
Lords Ministers Plenipotentiarys being thereunto invited and bidden did assist, the
Prime Vizier Isuf Bashaw did there in the presence and with the assent of the Lord
Mufti, all the Viziers of the Bench, the Ex-Cadileschirs and the present Cadileschirs
of Romelia and Natolia, many Scheck's or preachers, the chief Officers of the several
Orders of the Soldiery and the Sultan's Commissioners for treating of the Articles
of peace, declare and promise in the Name of the Splendid Porte, that in case it
shal so happen that the most Serene King of Sweden is to be conveyed to his own
Dominions thro' Poland, the said Splendid Porte will treat and agree in a friendly
manner with the most Serene King and Republick of Poland concerning his passage,
and will strictly enjoyn the Commander in Chief of her Troops that shall be appointed
to accompany and guard the said most Serene King to keep everywhere a good
Order and Discipline, not to suffer any Injury or Damage to be done to the Poles,
to take Care that the provisions and all other things which both the said King his
Company, Followers and Troops, and the said Ottoman Troops shall have occasion
for in their Journey be fully paid for according to their just price and value, and
further that the said Splendid Porte will not suffer by any means that the foresaid
most Serene King of Sweden, his Company, Followers or Troops or the Ottomon
and Tartars Troops (which shall [250a] be twice or thrice the number of the other)
that shall be appointed by the Splendid Porte to accompany him, do upon the
occasion of the foresaid most Serene King's Return into his Dominions raise or foment,
in any wise, any Troubles, Seditions or Tumults in Poland ; But that on the contrary
it is the Intention of the Porte that they shall march quietly and peaceably by the
direct way, without any delay or unnecessary going out of the most convenient
Route and without giving any Molestation or doing any Injury to the Poles, and that
he will put into our hands a Copy of the Firman or Royal Mandate to the purpose
abovementioned to be given as usual to the Commander in Chief of the foresaid
Ottoman Troops, that we may communicate the same to the said most Illustrious
and Excellent Lords Plenipotentiarys. Lastly the foresaid Prime Vizier did in the
manner abovementioned desire that we would be Witnesses and Guarantees of this
Solemn Promise ; Adding moreover that this promise tho' verbal being made by him
as Deputy and Plenipotentiary to the Sultan and by the whole Council, is of the same
force and vertue, according to the Mahometan Law, as if the same were committed
to paper and writing, altho' they did not think that proper in the present Juncture.
And the above Declaration and Promise was again in general confirmed by the said
Prime Vizier on the 5th of this Month O.S. being the time when the Instruments
[2506] of the Truce were signed and exchanged. In Witness of all which we have
set our hands and seals to these presents; At Pera near Constantinople the 18th
Day of Aprill Anno Domini 1712.1

2 May 1712
My Lord
Since my last of the 19th past I have been honoured with Your Lordship's Letter
of March the 11 th . Your Lofp will have observed in my former Letters by what means
it hapned that the case of Her Majestey's last orders to excuse my attendance on the
Sultan into field hath not existed otherwise
3
I would have follow'd them with all duty full
submission and stedfast exactness. I shall beg leave with the first opportunity to lay
before Your Lofp several more particulars of what hath passed with relation to the
Treaty of Peace. In the mean time I may assure Your Lofp that it hath very mani-
festly appear'd in the course of the Negotiation that the Surrendry and the demolition of
the places was the onely article for which the Port was heartily concern'd necessarily for
their satisfaction and tho' they have drawn some advantages from the execution thereof
1
8
The Latin version is given on fo. 76a.
3
This letter is in Sutton's own hand.
The passages in italics are in cipher in the manuscript.
with Circumstances most proper to encourage them to push their other pretensions and
interests they ever since that time wholely resolv'd against taking thefield,one convincing
proof whereof is the manner in which the Grand Vizir and Reis Effendi in concert with
the Plenipotentiary's and with the participation of the Mufti [966] and other chief
men adjusted the inclosed Declaration concerning the Countries of the Cossacks, which
was immediately approved by all the Principal members of the Divan assembled on
purpose in the Grand Vizir's House and judged to be all which the Czar was oblig'd to
upon that Point.
If the Sultan had gone in person into the field I humbly conceive it would have been
dangerous in its consequences in the present conjuncture,1 whether they made Peace with
the Czar or renewed the War, in either of which cases it would have been extremely
difficult to hinder them from intermeddling in the affairs of Poland, and if the War
was to be carried on, the Turks, Tartars, Male-content Poles, and Cossacks must
necessarily have entred into part of that Kingdome and would not have forborn
committing great Hostilities, for which purpose the Suedes and French have been
all along labouring. I am very well assured by so good hands, that I presume it to
be past all doubt, that the Ministers employed by the King of Sueden here, have
concurred in further Designs with the French Embassadour. If in the present
condition of Poland they had prevailed with the Turks to enter into their view,
I submit it to Your Lofp's great judgment how far it might have affected the
Emperour's affairs, and influenced those of all the Allies, it being scarce possible to
stop the Career of the Turks, who are easily transported with successe to the losing
of all regard for those, whome at other times they had in esteem and consideration.
The Sultan himself bearing the Vizir Azem no good will, and [97a] those in
favour about his Highnesse's person envying that Minister and desiring his Disgrace,
'tis apprehended they would have contributed to engage him in difficult and danger-
ous Undertakings, and compassed his ruine, if he had not carried those matters very
far, which would be very acceptable to the Port, if they could conveniently be brought
about. I am perfectly well informed, that both he and his party have been sensible
thereof, and therefore, tho' he was inclinable to march with the Army to the Frontiers,
as long as he judged that the procuring the Surrendry of Assac and razing of Taganrog
would afford him a good occasion and handle to bring the Treaty of Peace to per-
fection and a final Conclusion, since the alteration of that Circumstance he hath
with all imaginable eamestnesse and warmth promoted the Confirmation of the Peace
here, wherein he had the Universal Concurrence and support of the Members of the
Great Divan. The Pretension of Ucraina was the only ground left for renewing the
War, and apprehending they could not fright the Czar into a Cession of it, they were
unwilling to attempt the Conquest thereof by arms, all the Soldiery of the Empire
having an extreme aversion to War in those parts.
Your Lofp hath herewith a Translation of the Imp1 Command directed to Ismael
Pashaw at Bender touching the reception of the Polish Emb r and the dispositions and
measures for the King of Sueden's passage through Poland. The Sultan's Letter to
the Tartar Han with Hattesheriffe is of the same tenour. 'Tis observable that the
King of Poland is not mentioned therein, but only the Republick, and 'tis certain that
1
the Ministers of the Port have told the Officers of the Cossacks, who have been
lately vested here in order to their settlement under the Sultan'? protection,
that the Port would shortly enter into Treaty with the Poles about Itheir
New Limits with that Kingdome in Ucraina, which possibly will admit of some
dispute.
[976] Before Achmet Aga's departure for Bender he was introduced to the Sultan,
who gave him Instructions and orders to the same effect as the above-mentioned
Letter and Command, saying it was his intention that his Guest should be conducted
thro' Poland to his own Estates in a friendly and peaceable, but honourable manner ;
that measures ought to have been taken sooner for that purpose, and that his Ministers
ought to have treated and agreed about that Prince's passage, while the Peace with
the Czar was in Negotiation, but that it had been neglected; That there are great
divisions and disunion among the Poles ; that they are slow in their motions and
resolutions, and it would be too tedious to wait the arrival of their Embr to handle
and settle this affair with him; that he expected his Troops should not undergo
much hardship, but return before Winter: that what he asketh of the Poles in a
friendly manner is not a matter of great Consequence or prejudice to them, and if
they should refuse it, He would go in person with His Army to accomplish his intention.
This has been communicated to me in great Confidence by Achmet Aga, and I am not
well able to judg what consideration it deserves, on the other hand Gr. Vizir hath assured
the Plenipotentiary, that if the Republick of Poland should refuse Sweden Passage, they
will oblige him to return through the Emperour's Country.1
'Tis well assured that His Suedish Ma^ will insist very firm on the old promises,
affirmed to have been made him, of a numerous Body of Troops for his Escorte, and
will rather undergo other inconveniences, then passe with a small number of Troops,
which, according as they advanced in their march, would dimmish so fast by [98a]
the desertion customary to the Turks, who are not under the same order and discipline
as regular Troops, that in all probability soon after his Entry into Poland, he would
have no Convoy left. The Difficulty likewise of entring with safety into Pomerania,
while his Enemies forces are there, will undoubtedly be well represented. The
Ministers of thety Port are not quite ignorant of this and the other obstacle of con-
ducting His Ma over the King of Prussia's Lands, but seem to make as little account
thereof, as if they only desired to be rid of him at any rate, and some of them have
said accordingly, that, when they shall have carried him as far as the King of Prussia's
Country, they do not much care what becomes of him afterwards. Your Lorp is
better able to judg than I am, whether the King and Republick of Poland will grant
the Passage thro' that Kingdome with the number proposed, which the Turks reckon
will amount all together to eight or ten thousand men, And what difficulties and
obstacles will occur in the Execution1 thereof, if the Sultan be resolv'd to perform his
declarations and promises to Sweden. The Port will in all appearance be much em-
barrassed to find means to effect the same without new disturbances, but if the inclin-
ations and intentions of the present Ministers prevail, His Majesty will be in all likeli-
hood disappointed of all his hopes and expectation and forced to retire thro' the Emperor's
Dominions, or otherwise as he can. Y1 Lorp will please to signify her Majesty's pleasure
1
how I am to govern my self further in these affairs, until which I shall decline concerning
myself therein.1
The Capitan Pashaw will shortly depart with the Gallies [986] and some Frigats,
and a good quantity of Brasse Canon, ammunition and provisions for Assac, the
Works of which place are to be repaired and reestablished under his Care and
Inspection.
The Muscovite Plenipotentiaries are going to dispatch an Expresse to Vienna,
whence he is to go to Prince Dolghorucki the Czar's Emb r to King Augustus, who, as
they told him, would probably send him into Denmark. They have also intimated
to Captn Simpson, that he is suddenly to depart for Muscovy with the Officers and
seamen, that came down with him upon the four Muscovite Ships. I am with
all . . .
[92a] [Enclosure]
Translation of the Grand Signor's Mandate
directed to Ishmael Pashaw governor of
Aleppo now in Garrison at Bender.
A Treaty of peace between my Exalted Empire and the Czar of Muscovy being,
by the Mediation of the Ambassadors of England and Holland, transacted and agreed
with the Hostages Plenipotentiarys of the said Czar residing at the High Port, a peace
has at length been concluded upon certain conditions, with the Approbation of all the
Viziers, Doctors and the several Orders of the Souldiery ; and an Instrument for that
purpose having been received from the said Ostages and such another Instrument
delivered to them on the part of my High Empire the said Hostages have sent a man
express to their Czar that he may send an Ambassador hither to receive the Imperial
Capitulations ; so that nothing more occuring that should move my Imp11 Ma*y in
that behalf I have by my Imperial commands directed the Troops that were to come
from Asia to remain in their posts and Quarter. Now it being my Imperial Desire
and Will that the Glorious among the Great Princes of the Faith of Jesus, chosen by
the Potentates of the Nation of the Messias to be Umpire of the Differences that
happen among Christians, King Charles of Sweden (whose End be glorious and
directed in the way of Salvation) who hath lately taken refuge in my high Empire
and doth now reside at Bender, should in all security and safety be sent thro' the
country of Poland into his own Country, [926] the Militia of the Provinces of Rumelia
and Ozu are upon this occasion appointed to march to Bender, that they may be
employed in conducting the said King in the manner above expressed, to his own
Country and in promoting and fulfilling all such other matters as may occur for my
Imperial Service. Being therefore in hopes that then the f oresaid Vizier may perform
the service with the requisite attention and vigilance and the necessary sagacity, and
Discretion, and proceed according to my Imperial pleasure if I give thee the Office
and Authority of Commander in Chief of the Army designed as abovementioned to
march to Bender, in order to the conducting home the abovesaid King in an amicable
way and manner thro' Poland, and to the performance of the articles of Peace with
the Poles and Muscovites as also for the promoting and accomplishing such other
1
matters for my service, as may occur in those parts, thou art to use therein all applica-
tion and Diligence and to take the most prudent Advice of the most August Prince
Devlet Gherai the Cham of Crim, now being, whose Highness may it endure for ever.
Concerning this affair we have written at large in our most gracious Letter to the said
Chan, sent by the much regarded among the Chief and Honorable Achmed late Chiaoux
Bashaw, two Copys being also sent, one to the foresaid Chan the other to your self,
which contain the form of the Treaty of Peace, as it was treated and concluded here
with the Hostages. By Letter lately arrived here, being brought by Portanpve (?),
a servant of Sinausky Chatman of Poland, it is said that the [93a] Palatin of Masovia
was preparing to come hither being with the consent of the Republick of Poland
appointed Ambassador ExtraordT to my high Porte, it being prayed at the same time
that the said Ambassador may be accepted on the parts of my high Empire. How-
ever the answering the said Letter has been delayed hitherto, but now it is thought
convenient that the Ambassador of Poland should come hither to discourse and treat
with him of the King of Sweden's passage thro' Poland to his own country in a
friendly manner, and for this reason the honoured Vizier and glorified Councellor,
Ornament of the World etca, preserved through the great Mercies of1 the Supreme King
(that is, God) my prime Vizier and absolute Deputy Jsuf Bashaw, may God continue
his Highness, sends back the Chatman's Servant with Letters from himself, containing
our Leave for the Ambassador of Poland's coming hither, and so soone as he arrives
at Bender, if it be God's pleasure, the necessary Letters are to be written as well
on the part of the sd noble Chan, as on your part and without making the
said Hatmant's servant wayt at Bender, you are carefully to dispatch him upon his
intended Journey. And when the said Polish Ambassador shall have begun his
Journey and shall be arrived on the confines of my victorious Empire, all possible
care ought to be taken for his safe Travel and speedy Repair to my High Porte.
Whereas by the Instrument of the Peace concluded here with the Hostages, three
Months are allowed for the Muscovite army's marching entirely out of Poland, it has
been thought [93ft] and considered that the Ambassador of Poland may arrive here
by the end of that term, with whom this affair may be treated of and brought into
such form, that one may be persuaded and believe that with the assistance of God, the
King of Sweden being to take his way thro' Poland, may pass in a friendly manner,
without doing any hurt to the Poles ; and if it pleases God, this particular in the
manner above related, shall be discoursed and treated of with the Ambassador of
Poland. However the Thought that this affair is to be treated of at the high Port
with the Polish Ambassador ought not tooccasion any Coldness or Slackness to your
Vigilance, Application and Diligence therein. But the Frontiers of Poland being near
Bender, you ought to pass your word to transact and to treat with the Poles in a proper
manner and suitable to the State of affairs and in a friendly way fit for conciliating
their minds, so that when the King of Poland [sic] undertakes this Journey they may
be persuaded that he is to pass thro' in an amicable manner, without doing any
damage or giving any molestation to the Poles. In my Letter directed to the foresaid
Cham, I have effectually recommended it to him and ordered him that by all means
the Impediments must be removed and all endeavours used for the accomplishing of
1
Yusuf Pasha.
this Designe, and now the well ordering and the direction of all affairs in those parts
lyes upon thee and is thy Duty, particularly the employing of all necessary means
and the doing of every thing else for the sending home the King of Sweden in the
manner [94a] above expressed, which is now the most weightly and important con-
cern of my Empire and what is by all means required and expected at thy hands.
Wherefore thou art with all faithfulness and all the Sagacity that can be desired to
labour, with the Assistance of the Chan's most prudent advice, and to employ all
thy study and diligence to deserve well of my Imperial Majesty, by facilitating in
those parts this affair of the King of Poland's being amicably sent home through
Poland and removing all the Obstructions there may be to it. In the mean time thou
art to begin from this time forward to provide the warlike stores for the Troops that
are to march along with the sd King, the victuals and provisions for the Journey and
other necessary preparations and to see the articles of Peace observed as they ought,
which relate to Poland as well as to Muscovy ; and when by God's help the Impedi-
ments which obstruct the King of Sweden's passing amicably thro' Poland shall be
taken away and removed and the time of his Departure is come all the requisites for
his journey and for the Troops that ought to accompany him are to be in readiness
and all accidents which might hinder this affair are to be obviated and removed, that
when the time of his Departure comes it may by no means be delayed and measures
are to be taken, that our Troops which shall accompany him may not be obliged
to remain there all winter, but may return forthwith. In short thou shall with
pure and sincere intention apply they self and use [04&] thy endeavour (conforming
thy self always to the upright and prudent advice of the Chan) to give good Orders
and regulate all affairs, that may occurr, so as to bring this matter about; which
requires all Care and Diligence. If the Divine Majesty which defeats all obstructions
would grant us an overture and produce means for the effecting this business, in your
parts, without wayting for the coming of the Polish Ambassador to treat and settle
this matter of the King of Sweden's taking his passage home in an amicable manner
thro' Poland, that this succeeds according to my Imperial Desire and Will and comes
to be concluded in those parts with Expedition, and by this means the sincerity of
thy Intentions and the faithfulness and Loyalty of thy Service is made appear my
Imperial Trust and Confidence in thy person will thereby be augmented. There-
fore thou oughtest with all Zeal and Fervour to gird thyself with the Girdle of
Fidelity, in the manner that is hoped for and expected from thee, applying thy self
with true and laudable labour and pains acceptable to us in all occurrences con-
cerning my Imperial service, that may happen. And finally that thou mayst strive
with all thy might to give in a distinguishing manner the marks of thy zeal and
to do actions that may draw down upon thee my Imperial grace and Favour. I have
therefore issued this my Sublime Mandate whereby I command thee etca as supra.
From the Garrisoned City of Constantinople towards the End of the moon Rebiul-
evvel in the year 1124 (which is above the I st May 1712).1
1
The Italian version is on fo. 88a.

10 May 1712
My Lord
In my last of the 2d instant I had the honour to transmit Your LordP a Transla-
tion of the Imp1 Command, directed to Ismael Pashaw Seraskier at Bender, touching
the Dispositions to be made for the King of Sueden's departure and passage to his
own Dominions. This Command and the Sultan's Letter to the Tartar Han to the
very same Effect were sent by Achmet Aga, formerly Chiaoux Bashi, who is to assist
in that service in quality of Commissary of the Provisions, which Office he discharged
in the last years Campaign, and he is esteemed to be entirely in the Vizir's interests.
That Minister's letter to Monsr Seniauski the Crown General of Poland was dispatched
at the same time by a Polish Captain, who came hither some time ago on the part of
the said General. Your LordP wili find a Copy herewith of the abovementioned
Translation.1 I likewise acquainted Your LordP of the substance of the Sultan's
Charge to Achmet Aga, His blaming the Ministers for their omission and neglect of
takeing more timely measures for K" of Sueden's passage, which he said ought to have been
done, while the [1006] Negotiation with Muscovy was on foot that much time had been
lost. That there are great divisions and disunion in Poland and the motion of that
Ambassador will be slow and his arrival too late for treating the affair with him, that his
intentions are, that his Troops shall convoy K9 of Sweden through Poland, but return
before Winter without undergoing much hardship, that what He demands of the Republick
in a friendly Way is not a matter of great consequence or inconvenience and if it should be
refused, his army will be easily assembled and He will go in person to effect his intentions.
I am not able to make a safe judgment whether any great stresse may be [101a]
laid on the last expressions, but I have been since informed that Sultan has ordered that
K' of Sweden be treated with respect, and if He be not willing Depart, that he be not
violently pressed there to. 'Tis looked upon to be sure, that he will firmly insist upon
the old promises of a numerous Convoy and refuse departing without it.2 That Prince
is in great want of mony, and his Ministers here are soliciting the Port for the sum of
600,000 Dollars, which hath not yet been granted: but I am told the Vizir hath
already promised 150,000 Dollars, when His Majesty shall depart, besides all the
charges of his journey, which are to be born by the Port. He and his officers are
esteemed to be indebted above that sum, and the Creditors, many whereof have
received Bills of Exchange on Gen1 Poniatowski, make great Clamours at the Port
without any remedy.
I have formerly acquainted Your Lofp, that the Mufti and men of the Law, and
the several Orders of Sodiery are united with the Vizir Azem, with whom the people
here, and the Pashaws, Militia [1016] and people of the Provinces intirely agree in
their aversion for War, which in the people proceeds chiefly from poverty and in the
Soldiery both from that and the abhorrence of the hardships and misery to they apprehend
they should be exposed. Those of the Seraglio party bear Gr Visier great enuy and
hatred, and would be glad, if they could compasse his ruine. Ali Bassa Sultan's son in
1 2
Not preserved. The passages in italics are in cipher in the manuscript.
Law and chieffavourite and the Capigiler Kehayasi, who is in much credit and confidence
with his Majesty either concur with G. Vizier or temporize so well that he esteems them to
be his Friends and to enter into the same designs and measures. It is almost impossible
to be well assured of the Sultan's true dispositions, but the behaviour of these two persons
and some other circumstances give occasion to believe that either G. Vizier has had a
better understanding with Sultan, then hath appeared outwardly, or else the latter dis-
sembles very much with him at present; while he keeps measures with the Cham of
Tartary and is believed to have a secret Correspondence with him; and 'tis evident
that the union of so great a party with G. Vizier has given much jealousy to G: Seignor,
who takes the direction of his affairs upon himself and [102a] would have his G. Viziers
intirely dependent on his will and instructions. Besides that this G. Vizier's over great
forwardnesse and facility in the Negotiation of the Treaty of Truce have prejudiced his
Majesty against his management.l
The Palatin of Kiovia is returned to Bender without having done any thing
considerable in his late Expedition.
Since the writing what is above I have been informed that Gen1 Poniatowski,
having taken up a sum of mony and between twenty and thirty thousand Dollars in
cloth of the French, hath therewith satisfied the Janissaries, who were creditors of
His Suedish Maty and his Officers, which payment with fair promises keep up the
Expectation of the other Creditors.
With respect to Her Ma*y's order not to engage Her in any formal Mediation I
shall give Your Lorp a fuller account of what passed by the next opportunity. In
the meantime Your Lofp will please to be informed, that as often as the title of Medi-
ators was given us, which happened in two papers drawn up, the Reis Effendi both
times in our absence and without our participation : the first produced the 12 and the
other couched the 14 Feb. I declared against it. Her Matv and the States Gen1 not
having offered their Mediation without which Wee could neither take that quality upon
us, nor receive it. Pursuant thereto the Reis Effendi promised to shew us the preamble
of their instrum*, that Wee might see it worded to our satisfaction, but instead thereof
without any communication with us, the said [1026] Instrum* was written fair atid
finished the fourth past and no alteration could be procured, either at our desire or
that of the Plenipotenry's who were forced to yield to some harsh clauses which had not
agreed before. The Ministers of the Port had therein for their own reasons given us the
name of mediatours, without mentioning any mediation of Her Majesty and the States
Gen1, which example the Plenipotentiarys were obliged to follow.1 I am with all possible
respect . . .

27 May 1712
Since my last of the 2d and 10 th curr* I have been honoured with your LordsP'8
of the 25 th of JanT last. On the 20 th an Expresse brought Dispatches to the Port
from Bender, on receipt whereof the Vizir Azem went to the Seraglio to inform the
1
Sultan of what had passed, and hath since held a great Council in his own House.
The best account I have been yet able to learn of the Advices from Bender is, that
Achmet Aga, who departed hence the 26 th past, arrived there, in twelve daies. That
some daies after, the Tartar Han and Ismael Pashaw dispatched each an Officer in
company of the Polish Captain, who carries the Vizir's Answer to Monsieur Seniauski
the Crown General of Poland's Letters, with letters from themselves to the said
Crown General and Instructions to propose and explain themselves about the King of
Sueden's Passage thro' that Kingdome in the manner, whereof I have already
acquainted Your Lord?. That that Prince, after shewing some reluctance, upon the
Remonstrances of the Tartar Han, Ismael Pasha and Achmet Aga, gave way to the
Sultan's desires, but represented the difficulties, of his arriving in his own Dominions,
and the Danger he should be exposed to, if due Provision were not made for his safe
passage, by reason that His Enemies are in his way, and thereupon insisted that
measures might [2676] be taken accordingly. That, to put himself in a condition
for his March, he demanded from the Port 600,000 Dollars (which sum He required
last year, when Mehmet Pashaw pressed his Departure, and hath since caused to be
solicited by way of Loan) some hundreds of Horses to mount his Men, and about
200 Waggons and Carts.
The Port seems to be very well pleased in the main with this Resolution and
Answer, which appeareth the most prudent, that could have come from His Majesty,
but they are not inclined to come up to the sum of mony desired. If he had positively
rejected the Offers made him for his return thro' Poland, it would have much exas-
perated these people against him, whose opinion of him and dispositions towards
him have been no way favorable ever since the Conclusion of Peace upon the River
Pruth, and have of late grown much worse by their continual new Resentments of
his Behaviour, and the Deportm ts of his Ministers here. By admitting their Over-
tures, he might be esteemed to have laid them under an obligation and engagement to
convoy him safe through Poland if they had any sense of Honour.1
Your Lordship is better able to judg then I am, what answer Monsr Seniauski
may return to the Proposal of the Port, and how far his Power extends in that respect.
Possibly he may endeavour to gain time by putting them off at present with fair
words and hopes [268a] that the King and Republick will grant the Passage, provided
the Escorte be reduced to a lesse number, conformable to his answer to the late Vizir
Mehmet Pashaw. If the same thing be afterward insisted on as absolutely necessary
on the part of the Poles, the Turks, who are extremely averse from engaging them-
selves in new quarrels, will be inclinable to gratify them, and if the King of Sueden,
in consideration of the hazards of his passage and the difficulties of entring into his
own States, refuse to passe on those Terms, oblige him to return thro' the Emperour's
Dominions, as the Gr. Vizir hath assurd the Plenipotentiarys they would doe in case
the Poles should directly refuse the passage and 'tis very doubtfull what stress obstacle
can be laid on the Gr. Seignior's expressions of his intention in that case.1
The Ministers of the Port are so well satisfied with the Treaty of Peace, so" far
forth as it regards the Port directly, that they at present appear indifferent to the
Execution of that part, w°h relates to Poland. I acquainted Your Lordship in my
1
r
Letter of Jan v 12. That when the Plenipotentiaries excepted against these words
le ritirera al suo paese,1 which your LordP findeth in the inclosed Draught of the
Article touching the Evacuation of Poland made by the Reis Effendi, the Turkish
[2686] Commissaries very freely and easily desisted from them, saying the Czar might
send those Troops whither he pleased, provided they quitted Poland. Tho' that
expression properly refer'd only to the Troops, that then were in the remoter parts
of that Kingdome, and no mention was ever made of a liberty to send the Troops,
which were in the hithermost parts of it into Pomerania, much lesse that the Troops,
which were in the Czar's own Countries, might passe thro' Poland into that Dutchy,
which seems to be contrary to the expresse Stipulation, that the Czar's Troops should
not return into Poland under any pretext whatever, yet the Turks take no notice
of nor make any reflection upon the Complaints, that have been made against it,
the Vizir Azem having put the Suedes off with saying it was false, tho' he very well
knows the contrary.
Your LordP is already informed that the Troops appointed to conduct the King
of Sueden are the Spahis of Rumelia and Ozou, to be commanded in chief by Ismael
Pashaw as Seraskier and the Pashaw of Sophia under him, besides whome a Sultan
one of the Tartar Han's sons is to attend his Majesty with about 1000 Tartars. These
altogether may compose about 7000 or 8000 men ; but in their March to the Frontiers
of Poland and upon their entring into that Kingdome, they would undoubtedly
disband and desert in good numbers. The King of [269a] Sueden is esteemed to
have about 500 Suedes Officers and Soldiers, between 2 and 3000 Poles, and 4 or
5000 Cossacks, which last the Port intends to detain in the Grand Sigr's Dominions.
The inclosed is an attestation of several Declarations made by the Vizir Azem
on occasion of the Muscovite Plenipotent8 instances upon several points, which we
judged our selves obliged to grant them on their repeated requests.
I humbly in treat your LordP to instruct me how I am to govern my self in the affair
between the Port and Poland that I m a y be able to conform my conduct exactly to Her
Majesty's present Intentions and pleasure* I am . . .
[263a] [Enclosure]
Wee the underwritten Ambassadors of the most Serene and Potent Queen of
Great Britain and of the Mighty Lords the States General of the United Provinces
to the Ottoman Sultan, do make known and testify to all whom it may concern,
That the Splendid Porte having desired that it might be expressly provided in the
Instrument of the Truce, that as Azof and Cercaski are Frontier Fortresses of the
two Empires, no new Fortifications should be built between them, and that if any
were lately begun in the Ground lying between those two places, they should be
wholly demolished and destroyed; but that it might be free and lawfull for the
Splendid Porte to rebuild the Fort called Petroski, (which being situate near the
Fortress of Azof, an arm of the River Tanais running between them, was demolisht)
the same being now lookt upon as being part of and belonging to the said Fortress
1
These words are underlined in the manuscript.
2
This passage is in cipher in the manuscript.
of Azof; Both these points were yelded by the most Illustrious and Excellent
Ministers Plenipotentiarys of the most Serene and Mighty Lord Czar, upon these
Conditions, that it should be lawfull for either party to erect new Fortifications
elsewhere and to repair and enlarge the old ones lying on the Frontier ; both which
the First Vizier, tho' he refused, without alledging any Cause, to have them expressed
in words at length in the said Instrument, yet he often declared them to be lawfull
and allowed there being nothing stipulated [2636] nor any Restriction made to the
contrary and that therefore they ought to be taken for granted and would not be
disputed or hindered by the Splendid Porte. Moreover as to the Case mentioned
in the first Article of the Instrument of Truce, where it is provided that the Russian
Troops may reenter into Poland and encounter the Swedish Troops, but that, if a
Battle ensuing the Swedes should retire out of Poland, the Russian Troops ought also
to withdraw out of that Kingdom ; the foresaid most Illustrious and most Excellent
Lords Ministers Plenipotentiarys did earnestly insist that it should be lawfull for
the most Serene Lord Czar to take vengeance of the Poles that should joyn with the
Swedes against him, before his Troops left Poland; and the First Vizier, as we were
informed both by our Interpreters and by the Interpreter of the Splendid Port,
replyed that this Clause was to be so understood as that the Splendid Porte ought
not to hinder the most Serene Lord Czar from pursuing his said Polish Enemys
according to the Laws of War and taking Vengeance of them, but that it did not
seem to him to be necessary or proper to put this into the Instrument of the Truce,
yet that it might perhaps be so expresst, if (after the most Serene Lord Czar shall
first have ratified the Treaty of Truce) when the Renewal of the Capitulation shall
be treated of, this shall be desired in due form by Letters from [264a] the Czar's
Chief Minister to him the first Vizier. The Matters above declared and set forth
were again confirmed in general by the foresaid first Vizier, the Fifth Day of the
Month of Aprill past, at which time the Instruments of the Truce were subscribed
and exchanged. In Witness of all which we have subscribed and set our own Seals
to these presents. At Pera by Constantinople the 2nd. Day of May 1712.1

13 June 1712
My Lord
In my last of the 27th past I had the honour to acquaint Your LordP of the King
of Sueden's compliance with the Project of the Port for conducting him home thro'
Poland. His Majesty's answer to the Sultan's Letter upon that subject, which hath
been deferred under pretence of sending hither for Gold to embelish it, is not yet
arrived, but is daily expected. In the mean time the Port hath sent 125,000 Dollars
in specie, and about the same sum in Assignments on the Princes of Wallachia and
Moldavia, to Achmet Aga, the Commissary at Bender to make the necessary Prepara-
tions for the undertaking in hand. The sum, w"* they design to present his Suedish
1
The Latin version is given on fo. 265.
Majesty, is not yet ascertained; but the Vizir's intentions are, that it shall not be
delivered 'till the time of his Departure.
The Baron Goltz *• arrived here a fortnight ago by way of Vienna and Belgrade
in quality of Internuntius from the King and Republick of Poland. He left his
Baggage upon the road and came privately to the Imp1 Resident's House, where he
still continues. But he hath already visited the Vizir Azem, delivered his Credential
to him, and been received and acknowledged according [2706] to his Character, not-
withstanding the vehement opposition of the Suedes and French, who represented
that he was dispatched by King Augustus alone without the consent of or any com-
mission from the Republick. The Port hath appointed him the usual allowance for
his Entertainment, and assigned him a House in Constantinople whither he will
suddenly remove. At his Audience the Vizir entred into some slight discourse with
him touching the King of Sueden's passage thro' Poland. He told his Excell0?
that his Master, having no notice of the Port's Proposal in that respect, before his
departure, had given him no Instructions or Orders upon that subject, but at the
same time acquainted him that he apprehended the difficulties of that undertaking
would prove greater, then they may have at first appeared to the Port, lightly men-
tioning some of them, particularly that of passing part of the old March of Branden-
bourg, and the situation of affairs in Pomerania, upon which the Vizir let the matter
fall for that time, telling him He should discourse further with him about it on other
occasions. The Baron hath in Conversation given me to understand, that the King
His Master and the Republick cannot consent to the passage of an Escorte of Turks
and Tartars. These people having no just grounds to pretend the Passage, and being
averse from entring into new quarrells, [271a] 'tis generally believed with appearance
enough, that they will at length acknowledge their Project to be impracticable and
desist from it, desiring the King of Sueden to retire thro' the Emperour's Dominions.
The Vizir Azem and his whole Party are evidently in that disposition, and 'tis probable
the Sultan will concur therein, notwithstanding the lofty Expressions and menaces
he used to Achmet Aga, in case the Poles should refuse to grant the Passage as His
Highnesse demanded it. After the arrival of the Crown General of Poland's answer
to the Messengers dispatched to him by the Tartar Han and Ismael Pashaw, and the
receipt of the Czar's Ratification of the late Treaty, we shall see whether the Port will
proceed to take any fixed Resolution concerning the King of Sueden's departure and
journey before the Polish Embassadr's coming, and the certain advice of the full
execution of the Treaty with the Czar. I have been told, that the Baron Goltz hath
insinuated to the Vizir, that the said Embassr will not arrive so soon as was expected,
and 'tis possible he will not enter the Gr. Sigr's Dominions 'till Monsr Goltz hath given
advice in what disposition he finds the Port towards that King and Republick.
The Suedes have represented at the Port, that Orders have been sent me to
decline concer[27i£]ning my self in the disputes and affairs between the Port, Muscovy
and Poland.
Monsr Papai, who resided here for several years on the part of Prince Ragoczy,
and retired about two years ago, returned hither about 15 daies ago. 'Tis little
1
Major-General Freiherr von Goltz ; his mission, see Dresden, Sachsisches Hauptstaats-
archiv, Loc. 3552.
doubted but he was dispatched hither upon the advice and encouragem* of the French.
He was admitted to a private audience of the Vizir Azem, in wch he endeavoured to
persuade His ExCy to espouse the interests of Prince Ragoczy and his adherents :
hut his instances met wth so little ingression, that the Vizir sent him forthwith away
hence in a very rough and disgracefull manner. The French have given out that
he was ordered to wait for an answer to his proposals at Bender ; but Itham assured
of the contrary, and that the Port refuses to have any communication w his Master
or him. The French Embr visited the Vizir some daies after, and, as I hear, pressedh
him to grant Prince Ragoczy at least a Retreat in this Empire. But the Port, w°
is very unwilling to give the Emperour any jealousy, avoids all occasions of being
troubled with intrigues of that kind. I am . . .

2 July 1712
My Lord
Mr Jefferyes writes me that a Letter from Monsr Desalleurs to the Palatin of
Kiovia, which accidentally fell into his hands, had discovered to him a secret Negoti-
ation between France and the Court of Sueden ; that the former answering a Letter
he had received from Bender declared he was not able at that present to furnish the
400,000 Dollars demanded of him, but assured that he had written a month before
to the Court of France concerning it, and doubted not but he should suddenly receive
Orders to procure the said mony. Mr Jefferyes adds that, as he had since learnt,
that sum was to be employed in gaining the Crown Army of Poland, making new
Levies, and supplying other occasions ; That the Suedes should endeavour to drive
their Enemies out of Pomerania, and then joining their Forces with the Poles favour
the Designs of Our Enemies. Such Engagemts have been long suspected here, but
without any proof. The warmth and activity, with which the French have en-
deavoured to promote the interests of the Suedes, the strict Friendship and cor-
respondence between them, and the passing of John Baptista Savary the Suedes
Druggerman and a French Gentleman, who takes the title of Marquis de Villalonga,
several times between the Court of Sueden and Monsr Desalleurs, gave suspicions
that something more then Ordinary was in agitation between them, but we [2726]
were not able to procure any certain intelligence of the particulars. I formerly had
the honour to inform Your Lordship, that some French Merchants of this place had
supplied Monsr Poniatowski with about 40,000 Dollars in cloth, part whereof was
converted into mony, and the Bills drawn upon him from Bender satisfied part in
mony and part in Cloth. It was at that time affirmed, that the French Embr made
himself security for the same to the Merchants, the truth whereof I cannot avouch :
but itr hath been generally believed, that the Merchants would not have credited
Mons Poniatowski or the Suedes with so considerable a sum without good en-
couragem* from the Ambassr.
Some daies ago the King of Sueden's Letter to the Sultan being arrived, the
Envoy addressed himself to the Vizir for an audience of his Highnesse to deliver it.
K
That Minister expressing some Resentment, that His Maj*v had not vouchsafed to
answer his Letter, told the Envoy that it was contrary to the stile of the Port to
admit a Minister to a second audience of the Sultan, especially unlesse the contents
of the King's Letter were first communicated to him the Vizir. But upon the Envoy's
representing to him, that the Translation was inclosed in the Letter, that he had
no copy of it, and that his Orders were positive not to deliver it, except to the
Sultan himself, the Vizir represented the same by Talkish to His Highnesse, who
granted the Envoy an audience yesterday morning with the usual ceremonies.
[273a] Since my last of the 13th past the Vizir hath several times pressed Monsr
Goltz to enter into Treaty concerning the King of Sueden's Passage thro' Poland,
proposing to him the Intervention of my self and the Dutch Emb r which he declined,
defending himself with the want of Instructions upon that subject, but took those
occasions to represent more fully the difficulties of such an undertaking ; so that the
final Resolutions of the Port upon that matter seem to be suspended 'till the receipt
of Monsr Seniauski the Crown General of Poland's answer, if not 'till the arrival
of the Polish Ambassr. In the mean time, the Preparations are carried on at Bender,
where the Pashaw of Sophia, who began his March about a month ago, will suddenly
arrive with the Troops of his Government. I am . . .

4 August 1712
My Lord
Since my last of the 2d past the Vizir Azem hath sounded me, whether, in case
the Baron Goltz consented to enter into Treaty concerning the King of Sueden's
passage thro' Poland, I would intervene and passe good Offices between them to
facilitate their agreement, which I declined upon the most plausible pretences I could
alledg. Neverthelesse the Vizir pressed the Baron so hard upon that subject, that
there hath been a Project of agreement drawn up, which came to nothing. The
Baron, who entred unwillingly into Parley without Instructions or Power from his
Master, made such Demands as he judged would never be granted, in particular
the surrendry of the Palatin of Kiovia and the other Heads of the Malecontent Poles,
who have taken refuge in this Empire, and the Port insisted that the King and
Republick of Poland should engage themselves for his Suedish Majesty's safe Retreat
thro' the King of Prussia's Countries into Pomerania, for they are not ignorant of
the posture of affairs in that Country, so that the matter remains suspended 'till the
arrival of the Polish Embassr who is expected at Bender in lesse then twenty daies.
[279J] Mr Jefferyes writes me, that the Treaty between the King of Sueden and
France is far advanced, and that great Civilities are shewn to Monsr de Fierville,1
who negotiates on the part of France, and hath had the Extraordinary honour of
dining twice at his Suedish Majty'8 table.
The Tartar Han lately informed the Sultan that the Muscovites were building
new Forts on the River Orel in Ucraina, which hath been found false. But upon
* French envoy to Charles XII. He arrived at Bender on 26 June 1712.
the representations of the Suedes and French (who continue their utmost Efforts to
rekindle a war between the Port and the Czar, or create a rupture with Poland) that
there remains one Body of Muscovites under the Czarish Prince in Polish Prussia, and
another in great Poland, there hath been a great Council held, wherein it was resolved
to dispatch an Officer to examine whether the Muscovites have really evacuated those
parts of Poland or not. Accordingly Achmet Aga, one of the Sultan's Querries,
departed yesterday with that Commission, attended with sixteen Bostangis, and
accompanied with two Muscovite Officers on the part of the Plenipotentiaries, and
two servants of the Baron Goltz with his Passeports and Letters to the Crown General
Seniauski. Many believe, that the new Intrigues of the Suedes and French, and
the jealousies they endeavour to inspire into the Sultan, have made such an
im[28oa]pression upon him, that he only seeks a Pretext to renew the war against the
Czar. But if the Muscovites faithfully evacuate Poland, there is reason to believe
these people will consider all circumstances very well before they engage themselves
in any new Enterprize.
Monsr Lubochin the Czar's Brother in Law, who brings the Ratification of the
late Treaty, dispatched a Courier to the Plenipotentiaries from Kiovia with advice,
that he would pursue his journy thence in two daies; but he does not yet appear,
neither is there any news of his arrival on the Turkish Frontiers.
The contents of the King of Sueden's Letter to the Sultan are kept so secret, that
I cannot procure any certain intelligence thereof. I have been told however, that
his Majesty therein complained of the Vizir's conduct, and declared to his Highnesse,
that in the present condition of his Affairs, he foresaw he should be obliged to make
Peace with his Enemies, in which case His Highnesse might reckon upon seeing all
the Czar's Forces very suddenly turned upon him.
I hear the King of Sueden has ordered his Minister at London to make complaints
against me, for which I dare be confident there is no. just reason. If it be so, I have
so much confidence in the Queen's goodnesse and justice and Your Lordship's Pro-
tection, that I assure my self Her Majesty [280&] will not give ear thereto without
being graciously pleased to hear what I have to say in my own defence. I am . . .
24 September 1712
My Lord
Some daies after the last, which I had the honour to write Your Lordship under
the 4th past, I was seized with a violent feavour which held me the rest of the month,
and left me in so weak and low condition, that I have but just gathered strength
enough to be able to renewr your Lord?'8 trouble. In the mean time little of moment
hath passed here. Mons Abraham Lupochin the Czar's Brother in Law arrived
before the middle of last month with His Czarish Majty'8 Letter of Ratification of the
Treaty. He was received very favourably, and made an entry with the same Pomp
and Ceremony as an Internuntius, tho' he hath no Character, the Chiaouxler Emini
and Kiatibi with a number of Chiauxes being sent to meet him and conduct him into
Town. The Sultan hath not yet thought fit to receive the Ratification by reason of
the inexecution of that part of the Treaty, which regards the evacuation of Poland.
Besides the Representations already before made by the Suedes and the Tartar Han
upon that subject, which occasioned the dispatch of Achmet Aga the Gr Sigr>s Querry
into Poland to take information of the truth of the matter, Achmet Aga (formerly
Chiaoux Bashi and now Commissary for providing all things necessary for the King
of Sueden's March, and attending His Majesty therein) arrived some daies ago with
the Confirmation, that the Muscovites have still Garrisons and Magazins in Elbing
and Thoorn, besides a [281&] a Body of Troops said to be under Gen1 Bauer near
Posnania, and brought with him Arzes or Remonstrances from the Tartar Han and
Ismael Pashaw to the same effect. Achmet Aga hath been above two hours with
the Sultan to give him an account of all that hath passed during his stay at Bender,
and of the present posture of affairs in Poland, and the Allarm and dissatisfaction
of the Port hath appeared on this occasion, they now beginning to make greater
reflection upon the difficulties of performing their so often repeated Promise and
Declaration of conducting the King of Sueden to his own Dominions, while the Musco-
vite Army lies before Stetin. These difficulties, and the Czar's non-observance of
the Article in the late Treaty relating to Poland are improved to the best advantage
by the King of Sueden, who, as I am informed, declares He is willing and ready to
depart, when he sees his way cleared and the Turks in a condition to conduct him in
safety. Some daies ago the Vizir sent for Monsr Schaphiroff, and after very warm
complaints against the Czar's keeping possession of several Places in Poland, contrary
to the Treaty, discoursed somewhat upon the Muscovite Army in Pomerania stopping
up the King of Sueden's way to his own Estates. As far as I can perceive, the Port
is not a little perplexed. The Sultan enters into great suspicions and Jealousies, and •
is at a losse how to [282a] send the King of Sueden away in such a manner, as may
save his own honour. The Ministers and those, who are most concerned for the
maintenance of the late Treaty, seem apprehensive of his Highnesse's displeasure
upon the arrising of new delaies and disputes, and begin to inquire how the Muscovites
shall retire out of Pomerania without passing thro' Poland, which in rigour is contrary
to the Treaty, and have made some Overtures of regulating that matter with the
Muscovite Emb r s being extremely desirous of finding any expedient to save appear-
ances and salve the Peace. 'Tis evident, that the general aversion to new Imbroils
is so great, that they will use all the means and arts they are Masters of to avoid
them. In the mean time, it is much questioned whether they will proceed any
further, then by pressing the Muscovite Embass rs to procure the evacuation of Poland,
untill the return of Achmet Aga out of that Kingdome. At his passage by Bender
the Suedes had the dexterity to put into his service a Suedish Officer in disguise in
quality of Interpreter, and one of the Palatin of Kiovia's Followers, who is said to be
a sharp fellow, as an Ordinary servant, besides which the K. of Sueden is said to have
promised the Aga a large Reward, if he would make his report in his favour. How-
ever the Vizir, who is informed of these circumstances, esteems [2826] himself secure
of the Aga's good disposition.
The Polish Amb r whome the Port expected to see here before this time, is said
to be now advanced to the Frontiers. 1 The Circumstances of the King of Sueden's
1
From here to the end of the letter is in Sutton's own hand.
Passage through Poland are reserved to be treated with him. In the mean time we
hear no more discourse upon that subject.
The Grand Sigr is weary of the Expence occasioned by the King of Sueden's sta}'
at Bender, and as I have hinted to Your Lop above, puzzled how to send him away
honourably and save appearances. But I do not find the resentments of the in-
execution of the article relating to the Evacuation of Poland run so high, as might
be expected, if his Highnesse had any inclination to quarrell anew with the Musco-
vites, to which assuredly there appears no forwardnesse, but rather a readinesse to
enter into waies of accommodation. And if they do come to another Rupture, in all
appearance it will be for want of skill and dexterity to extricate themselves out of
the difficulties, that remain behind in procuring the full Execution of the Treaty and
the King of Sueden's safe Retreat, and not out of any Design or view of continuing
the War, tho' they would certainly be glad, if, without drawing their Swords, they
could oblige the Czar to withdraw his Forces out of Pomerania and leave the way open
to the Suedes to return into Poland or Saxony. The other day the Vizir swore by his
Law to the Baron Schaphiroff, that the Port is desirous to live in perpetual Peace
with the Czar, and does not seek pretexts to quarrell anew, but that they were not
without some suspicion, that the Czar is not in the same disposition, and I dare be
confident those are his true sentiments, whereupon he forced the Baron to swear on
his side that the Czar's intentions were the same.
The French Ambr seems to make his utmost efforts to discover the Port's true
Intentions, and what account may be made thereof. He hath lately presented two
Memorials to the Sultan himself directly, using all the arguments he is able to persuade
him to break with the Czar and King Augustus, and two more to that same [283a]
effect to the Vizir, to the last whereof he hath pressed very hard for an answer, but I
believe will obtain none for the present.
I am honoured with Your Lofp's Letter of the 25th July, am infinitely obliged
for the hint You was pleased to give me of not receiving any Honours from the
Czar x without Her Majesty's leave first obtained, which your Lofp will be assured
I shall carefully observe. I am . . .

25 September 1712
My Lord
The Imp1 Courier being detained a day longer, I profit of this remnant of time
to acquaint Your Lofp, that yesterday the Vizir felt my pulse, whether I would
intervene at the conferences
h
proposed to be held anew with the Muscovite Ambr's
Plenipotentiary, vf° I declined alledging that the weak condition I am in will not
permit me to lego abroad without danger, especially at a time that the Plague continues
rife at ConstP . I hope this excuse is conformable to Yr Lordship's directions and Her
Majesty's intentions, tho' apprehend both parties will be disgusted at it and the Turks
1
See Soloviev, Istoriya Rossii, iv. 85.
much out of humour and that I shall be press'd much more urgently after1 Achmet Aga's
return out of Poland. I am . . .

[274a] ' Pera of Constantinople,
31 October 1712
My Lord
The last,
ch
which I had the honour to write Your LordP were of the 24 and 25th
past, at w time the Ministers of the Port were entring into Treaty with the Musco-
vite Ambassadrs concerning the entire Evacuation of Poland, and the circumstances
of the retreat of the Czar's Troops out of Pomerania home, the time whereof they at
first required to be fixed, but afterwards receded from that Pretension. Your
Lord?r s will find inclosed the Act of Agreement, which was made with the Dutch
Emb ' interposition, who passed several times between the Vizir and them. This
Agreement was then presented to and approved by the Sultan : But we now see a
sudden and great turn of Affairs. Some daies ago Achmet Aga returned from Poland
by way of Bender with a report, that there still remain Muscovite Garrisons and
Troops in several Places of that Kingdome, and Representations to the same Effect
improved wth other circumstances are newly come from the Tartar Han by Mehmet
Aga, who was lately dispatched to Bender, and others. On this occasion the Sultan
has shewn greatrs resentment and much displeasure against the Vizir Azem. The
Muscovite Emb [2746] are confined, and no body permitted to go into or out of
their Houses. Several Great Councils have been held in the Vizir's House, and there
is one assembled today, rin which 'tis believed they will resolve upon Preparations for
war. The Polish Emb who departed from Jassy 18 daies ago, and was expected
here in 8 or ten daies, is ordered to Adrianople, whither 'tis supposed the Sultan will
very shortly remove.
Some of the Ministers of the Port have declared that, as the Czar has not evacu-
ated Poland within the term limited, nor does appear to them to have a real inten-
tion to withdraw his Garrisons, Troops and Magazins out of that Kingdome, they
should be obliged to put themselves in a posture to force him to it, but would not
proceed to Hostilities against him if he complied with his obligation in that respect.
But it may be apprehended they will form further Pretensions,rs and I am very well
assured, that they have demanded, of the Muscovite Embass since their confine-
ment, that a term should befixedfor retiring the Muscovite Forces out of Pomerania,
pretending that they plainly perceive that while they remain there, the Czar will not
fail to maintain a communication between his own countries and that Dutchy and
his Troops passe thro' Poland.
[275a] Since the writing what is above I have received advice, that the Great
Council passed this afternoon from the Vizir's House into the Seraglio, where the
resolution of War was declared on allegation, that the Czar hath not performed his
Engagement, and the Prayer called Fatihie usual on that occasion made in the
1
Sultan's presence. 'Tis likewise assured that the Court will shortly depart from
Adrianople.
My Lord
I had no previous notice of this conveyance and so was forced to write what is
above in a very great hurry, designing to dispatch a Janissary to overtake the Courier
if it be possible. r What I have to add is, that this sudden change proceeds wholly
from the Gr. Sig who, besides his Publick views with respect to the Czar and the
Poles, is esteemed to have his particular reasons, having conceived great Jealousy
against the union of his Ministers with the men of the Law, the Soldiery and the
People, on which account he hath been long desirous to remove to Adrianople, where
he thinks he shall be Master of his Affairs, and at liberty to govern them without
opposition and change his Ministers at pleasure. It cannot easily be foreseen how far
this new resolution of Prepa[2756]rations for war will be carried, which probably will
depend much upon the Czar's conduct, and the posture of Affairs in Pomerania and
Poland. The Ministers of the Port declare, that since it is evident they cannot rely
on the performance of the Czar's promises, they must make themselves ready to force
him to it, and proceed in their preparations 'till they see the late Treaty actually
executed. I am persuaded their Design is not so much to enter into War with the
Czar, to which there is assuredly an universal Aversion, but to oblige him to abandon
Poland and Pomerania, by which means they hope to open the way for a new revolu-
tion in Poland.
This Evening the Muscovite Embrs Plenipotentiaries Monsr Tolstoy and Monsr
Lupochin were sent to the Seven Towers, Their Families will remain tonight in their1
Houses. I must beg Your Lorp's excuse for the disorder of this Letter, and am . . .
Novr 1. 1712.
My Lord
This morning the Vizir Azem was sent for to the Seraglio, where the Gr. Sigr
detained him, his Horses and servants being already returned to his House. The
Capitan Pashaw is called to the Seraglio, as 'tis believed to receive the Seal.

3 November 1712
My Lord
I have but one moments warning of this conveyance, which I make use of to
acquaint Your Lofp what hath passed since my last of the 31 th past and I st inst.
The late Vizir Azem Isuf Pashaw and AH Aga the Sultan's late Capigilar Kehayasi
and one of his Commissaries for that late Treaty are sent to Mitilene. The Gr. Sigr
hath not yet caused any part of their Estates or goods to be seized. The seal has
1
This paragraph, and the short note that follows, are in Sutton's own hand.
2
been given to Soliman Pashaw, who was one of the Vizirs of the Bench, a man of the
meanest capacity and no experience.1 Achmet Aga, who lately returned from Bender,
has been prefered to his former Post of Chiaoux Bashi, and Achmet Beig newly
come back from Poland to that of Under Master of the Horse.
The Muscovite Emb rs are very well treated in the Seven Towers, whither all their
Russe servants and such .strangers, as were willing to be shut up with them, have
been sent to 'em, and all their Goods and Baggage very carefully preserved and
sent after them. Capt. Simpson and Lieut. Porter two of Her Mat^'8 Subjects, whome
I reclaimed, have been delivered to me and are now in my House.
I before informed Your Lofp that orders were'given for stopping the Palatin of
Mazovia at Adr°Ple whither the Baron Goltz was sent yesterday morning with a Guard.
'Tis supposed they will both be kept under arrest in their Houses.
We do not yet know the time of the Court's removal to Adi?Ple, but 'tis generally
believed it will be before the little Bairam, which is about 50 daies hence.
'Tis said the Port will give His Suedish Ma*y a supply of about 600,000 Dollars-
I shall constantly keep your Lofp informed of what comes further to my knowledg-
In the mean [time] by what I already perceive I have reason to believe these people
are not obstinately bent upon war.1 I am . . .

5 November 1712
My Lord
I had the honour to write Your LordP the 31 past and the I s t and 3 d instant.
I am now to add, that the Sultan's Hattesheriffes are come out for removing to
Adrianople the 2d of the next moon, and 'tis believed the Court will actually depart
hence about the middle of the Moon, viz* in lesse then a month hence. They are now
very busy at the Port in preparing dispatches to the Tartar Han, and sending supplies
of mony to him and the King of Sueden. I do not certainly know the sums, but have
several times heard, that they design the former 150,000 Dollars besides a surgutch
or an agraffe 2 enriched with Diamonds and Heron's Feathers, and the later 600,000
Dollars and a clasp for his hat set with Diamonds. The Tartars will begin their
Expeditions as soon as their Horses are in a condition, which they will forthwith begin
to feed with Barley. I am credibly informed, that the Calgah Sultan is to invade
Ucraina with the Crim Tartars, and that the Han in person with the Nogay and
Budziack Tartars is to enter Poland with the King of Sueden, the Turks having
been made to believe that His Maj*y will be able with that assistance to join his Forces
expected out [2776] of Pomerania, and afterwards either march into Saxony or keep
the field in Poland, the first Project being to dethrone King Augustus, to which the
Turks fancy they can contribute much partly by persuasions and partly by threats
and the terror of their Arms, and 'tis confidently affirmed, that the Malecontent Poles
of King Stanislaus his Party have promised the Port Caminiec and the Province of
Podolia.
1 s
Written in cipher in the manuscript. An ornamental buckle or clasp.
The Men of the Law, the Soldiery and the people continue averse to War : but
I am informed by persons who are in the secret of their Affairs, and whose intelligence
may be depended on, that the Gr. Sigr hath been so much flattered by the French
and Suedes ; that he has formed very great Ideas and Designs to himself, which he
will prosecute, if the first Enterprizes succeed according to his imagination. The
Tartar Han is in so great Esteem and Credit with His Highnesse, that the Direction
and management of the whole undertaking will depend much upon his Counsel and
advice, wch will be concerted with the Suedes and French. The former are affirmed
to have assured His Highnesse, that they shall have strict Alliances with France and
Spain, and in all probability with Great Britain, and that in case they carry their
point in Poland, they will [278a] not only in conjunction with him bring the Czar
to what terms he pleases, but assist him in the recovery of all that was lost in the last
war with the Christian Confederates, and remain in a perpetual Friendship and good
correspondence with the Port. 'Tis certain that these Promises, and the facility they
have made him hope in the Execution of their plan, have made great impressions
upon him, to which the retreat of several Malecontent Poles to Bender, the incursions
of the Palatin of Kiovia's Troops and Cossacks into Poland, the arrival of part of the
Suedes Transport at the Isle of Rugen, which hath been well improved, and the
successe of the French Arms have made the way more easy. However, the Port
hath it now under consideration, whether they shall again send Seifullah-Aga to
Vienna * to assure the Emperour of their resolution to observe the Peace with him on
this occasion, which the Imp1 Internuntius promotes and the Suedes and French
oppose.
The Suedes' have here not only communicated to the Port a pretended Transla-
tion of a letter from Your LordP to me, but been so free as to shew it to some of our
Merchants.
There are only two or three Commands hitherto dispatched to the Pashaw of
Diarbekir and one or two more Pashaws of the remotest Provinces [2786] in Anatolia,
to order them to be ready to march with the Militia of their Governments. Some
think the Expedition of the rest will be deferred 'till the Court's arrival at Adrianople.
The Gr. Sigr hath not caused any part of the late Vizir's Goods to be seized, but
ordered them to be sold for the payment of his Debts. But in all appearance that
Minister will lose his Head, and his friends and creatures be all disgraced one after
another. I am . . .

[286a] Per a of Constantinople,
21 December 1712
My Lord
For want of safe conveyances I have not troubled Your LordP since the 5 th past,
some daies after which the Port sent away 150,000 Dollars for the Tartar Han and
500,000 for the King of Sueden in Gold. The later sum was addressed to the Han,
and we are told that directions were given him to require, previously to the delivery
1
He stayed in Vienna in April-May 1711.
of the Mony, His Suedish Majesty's consent to the following points. i° To depart
under the Tartar Han's Convoy, who had orders to conduct him thro' Poland to his
own Dominions. 2 0 To forbear concerning himself in the Affairs of Poland, or raising
any Factions or Disturbances in that Kingdome. 3 0 To promise that his Armies
shall not return any more into that Kingdome. And lastly to desist from supporting
King Stanislaus his Pretensions to that Crown, but leave it to the free choice of the
Republick to admit him for their King or not. These Proposals, on which 'twould
be needlesse to make any reflection, are supposed to be the result of several Councils
held here after the late change of the Vizir Azem. It does not appear how far the
Sultan intended they should be enforced, for there is advice here, that by the Tartar
Han's Order the mony was actually paying to the King of Sueden's Commissaries at
Bender, tho' His Majesty declined the conditions abovementioned, and had caused
Remonstrances to be made against them. [2866] The Sultan shewed the utmost
impatience to remove hence, and accordingly made his Publick Exit on the 27 th past,
sooner then was expected, being followed by the Valide Sultana 1 and all his Women,
who joined him a few hours out of Town. The first part of his journey was very
favourable for the season: but about the midway the weather grew Stormy and
Snowy, so that the Company suffered very much and about 120 Men and a number
of Horses and other Beasts of Carriage died of cold. This notwithstanding, on his
arrival at Adrianople, caused the Horse Tails to be exposed, and the Janissaries to
encamp without the Town, intimating to 'em to prepare themselves to march in ten
daies for Babadag, when he designed to Winter, the reason given out for this further
motion being the King of Sueden's refusal to depart before His Highnesse's arrival
near the Frontiers. This offer to advance to Babadag in the Depth of Winter raised
a general murmur, and His Highnesse was pleased afterwards to defer, if not revoke
his Orders at the instances, as 'tis said, of the Valide Sultana, who is about ninety
years of age and very infirm. But the mountains being difficultly passable in this
Season, and very few people provided for so unexpected a March, 'tis generally sur-
mised to have been a feinte, which would not be without fruit, if the forwardnesse
His Highnesse shewed on this occasion have the force to quicken the motion of the
iPashaws and militia, and render His Troops more chearfull to undergo fatigues and
[287a] hardships, then they have appeared.
Your Lordship hath here under Let. A a Translation of one of the Commands as
they were at first drawn up, for the Pashaws to prepare themselves and march into the
Field. But by the Sultan's particular Directions the Preamble was afterwards altered
and couched in the form, whereof the Translation is annexed under Let. B. wherein
Your Lord? will observe the Grounds of the present Declaration of war.
The Gr. Vizir is a man of less than ordinary capacity and wholly without experi-
ence, the Janissar Aga ninety years old and of little understanding, the Topgi-Bashi
unacquainted with his business so that the three Officers who have the chief command and
management in the Army are but ill qualified for any undertaking.
Ali Bashaw the Sultan's son in law possesses his Majesty's entire confidence and hath
all the power in his hands, the Gr. Vizir being his creature and dependent on him, the
next in credit and power is Achmet Aga, the present Chiaoux Bashi who is the Sultan's
1
Queen-mother.
creature. [2876] A war is judged to agree as little with the disposition as interest and •
safety of these two Ministers.1
Before the Court's departure hence the Emp r ' s Internuntius, 2 to whome the
Vizir had already delivered his Recredentials, visiting the Mufti and Ali Pashaw,
passed some Offices in favour of Poland, upon which they both gave him to under-
stand that the Port hath no quarrel with nor Design against that Kingdome. The
Polish Emb r and the Baron Goltz and their Retinues were on the Gr. Sig r ' s arrival at
Adrianople somewhat restrained of the liberty they before enjoyed.
From these circumstances and some other considerations conjectures are drawn,
that the Sultan's chief Designs in these late proceedings were i° to rid himself of the
late Vizir and others, whose union with the Men of the Law and Soldiery gave him
jealousy. 2° To retire hence to Adrianople, wrch he could not safely do without a very
specious pretext by reason of the general resentment of the Court's residing there,
which was one of the chief causes of his Brother Sultan Mustafa's Deposition. The
reasons of His Highnesse's removing thither are conceived to be an Aversion to
ConstantPle where the Soldiery and People are seditious and mutinous, and an
opinion that He shall be more at liberty to govern there according to his own humour
and pleasure. 3 0 [288a] To affright the Czar into a punctual compliance with his
engagem* for the entire evacuation of Poland, and oblige him to withdraw his Forces
home out of the Lower Saxony. 4° To preserve Poland in independance, which
rather appears by the endeavour to exclude the Suedes, upon whose re-entrance
into that Kingdome 'tis supposed the Muscovites will inevitably return likewise.
And lastly to save his honour and Promises by causing the King of Sueden to be
conducted with safety thro' Poland to his own Dominions, about the manner of
performing which these people have been along exceedingly perplexed. Upon these
grounds 'tis presumed the Port would willingly receive satisfaction from the Czar.
If these be the Gr. Sigr>s aims, Your Lordship will judg whether He is likely to com-
passe them, by the measures he takes, so easily as he imagines, and whether an
opinion of the facility of succeeding in his views, which he may have conceived upon
the insinuations of his great power, the Terrour of his arms, and the ill condition
of his Neighbours, may not engage him farther then possibly he at first intended, if
not too far to be able to come off with successe or honour.
On other side what I had the honour to write your LordP in my last is confirmed
to me by persons, who certainly enter very far into the secrets of the Government, and
whose intelligence might be [2886] depended on, if it were sure they use no artifice,
or insincerity. They assure that the Suedes have valued themselves upon the Alli-
ances they should certainly have with France and Spain, and probably with Her
Majty. That they and the French Emb r have promised that Poland should submit
to a Tribute and Vassalage to the Sultan. That the King of Sueden and France
would remain alwaies in good correspondence and concert with him, and not only
concur in reducing the Czar to such terms as He should think convenient, but favour
and contribute to the recovery of all that this Empire lost in the last war with the
Christian Confederates. And that they have so much facilitated the Execution of
these matters, that they have made great impressions upon the Sultan, and raised
1 2
The passage in italics is in cipher in the manuscript. Michael Talmann.
mighty Ideas in him, insomuch that my Informers pretend to apprehend His High-
nesse is inclined to pursue their Projects. They add that it hath been insinuated to
the Sultan, as a thing practicable that the King of Sueden should be chosen King of
Poland, and that to put an end to the contestation about that Crown the Republick
ought to proceed to a new election. Your LordP may please to remember that the
late Vizir Azem Baltagi Mehmet Pashaw declared several times to me and the Dutch
Embassad1 that the Port's intentions were that neither King Augustus nor King
Stanislaus should remain King [289a] of Poland, but a new Election be made. How-
ever strange these Projects may appear to Your LordP these People are liable, thro'
ignorance of the constitutions of other countries to enter into such views.
'Tis certain the Tartar Han, whose interest and inclinations lead him to war,
hath all along had a secret understanding with the Gr. Seignior and is now in credit with
Him. But what the Sultan's true Designs are cannot be sufficiently penetrated.
Possibly they may discover themselves more clearly in some short time. Though
He is a Prince well versed in the art of dissimulation and disguise.1
The souldiery continues in the abhorrence of a war in those parts, and the Pro-
vinces are in so low a condition and the Pashaws so poor, that they are able to bring
but few Troops into the Field.
Four or five ships of war are ordered to Alexandria to fetch the Janissaries of
Egypt-
The Odas of the Janissaries, Topgis and Gebegis are very thin, but no Levies
yet begun to recruit them.
The Capitan Pashaw is designed with 20 Gallies and some small ships for Assac
in the Spring to supply that place, and forward the new Fortifications.
The French Emb r at an Assembly of his Nation acquainted them, that he should
probably follow the Court to Adrianople, [2896] and I am told, that he pressed for
the consent of the Port, but hath not yet obtained it.
Chelibi Mehmet Pashaw,2 who was lately Janissar-Aga and is protected by Ali
Pashaw, is left in quality of Caimacam for the Governm* of ConstantPle. The con-
siderable Persons, who were first disgraced are the late Vizir Azem Isuf Pashaw, who
is now Prisoner in the Castle of Rhodes, Ali Aga lately Capigiler Kehayasi, who is
under confinement at the Dardanelles, and the late Topgi-Bashi, who was exiled else-
whither. Since the Sultan's departure many others of lesse note have been likewise
banished.
The Incursion, wch 'twas said the Crim Tartars were to make into Ucraina under
the command of the Calgah Sultan 3 is no more discoursed of. But 'tis now given
out, that the Han hath ordered a great part of them to Bender.
Decr 26, 1712.

My Lord
Since the writing what is above I have been informed that the Imp1
Internuntius hath, by a courier lately arrived at AdrPle recd Orders to con-
1
2
The passages in italics axe in cipher in the manuscript.
3
Tchelebi Mehmed Pasha.
Kalga Sultan, the title of the heir-apparent of the Crimean Tartars.
tinue his Residence at the Port untill the Differences arisen anew with our
Northern Neighbours be accommodated.
The souldiery and people here, as well as at AdrPle talk very freely ag* the Gr.
Sigr'B conduct and the war, and the Janissaries, who lay encamped at AdrPle, are said
to have returned into Town of their own heads. The Gr. Seignior's true meaning is
difficult to unriddle. Messengers have been [290a] dispatched, as usual, into Asia
to hasten the departure and March of the Pashaws and Troops. His Highness' orders
are that they shall appear at the Rendezvous earlier then ordinary, wch the Suedes
urge very instantly : but the more remote of them will hardly be able to come much
before the usual time. We hitherto see no preparations not of any experience to the
Sultan neither do I hear of the erecting any considerable Magazins on the Frontiers,
which is however more necessary at this time then ever, by reason that Moldavia is
entirely ruined, and there is a dearth of all sorts of grain in those parts, which have
been afflicted this last year with a great drowth and swarms of Locusts. Eight daies
ago the Chiaoux Bashi was sent to Bender, and a report is spread, that his chief
Errand ris to presse the King of Sueden's departure. Your Lorp will soonest know
from rM Jefferyes1 what truth there is in this report, and in the advice written by
Mons. de Fabrice the Duke of Holstein's Envoy to one of our Merchants here, that
the mony designed for the King of Sueden was actually paying to his Commissaries.
This Government is subject to great and sudden turns and changes and 'tis possible
they may either before or after this summer quite alter the measures they have seemingly
enter'd loose in which case from certain discourses, which have been reported to me,
there is reason to apprehend, that both partys may seek my interposition. A refusal
to meddle, while the Dutch Ambr and others offer their good offices would certainly be
taken very ill by both sides, especially the Turks who are most likely to resent it, without
[2906] other fruit then letting the Swede see that these people will make peace without
my assistance, when they are so minded where as by entring into the negotiation an
opportunity might be gain'd to govern some point or other according to Her Majesty's
desire. I shall decline concerning my self upon the best excuses which occur to me.
I humbly crave the favour of Your Lordship's further Instructions that I may be better
prepar'd and able to govern my self entirely according to Her Majesty's pleasure*
I am . . .
[36a] [Enclosures']
Let. A. Mandate directed t# the Bashaw etc.
Altho' by the Tenour of the Treaty of Peace concluded with the Muscovite
'Ostages now residing at the High Porte it was lately agreed and stipulated that
the Czar of Muscovy should in the Term of 3 Months cause all his Troops to march
entirely out of Poland never to return into it by any means nor to make any opposi-
tion to the King of Sweden's Return to his own Country; Yet the said Term of
3 Months is elapsed, and the foresaid Czar contrary to the said Conventions has not
1
F. E. von Fabrice, the envoy of Holstein to Charles XII at Bender ; he subsequently wrote
a book entitled Antedates du sejour du Roi de Suide a Bender, ou lettres de Mr. le Baron de Fabrice
pour 2servir d'eclaircissement a I'histoire de Charles XII (Hamburg, 1761).
onely marched into Poland and into that part of Pomeren which belongs to Sweden,
but even now the fame is spread and it is become publick that the Muscovite Troops
are in great Bodys in Poland, which Contraventions of his to the Agreement made
being evident; Therefore Consultation being had thereupon with all the Viziers
Doctors of the Law and other Members of the Council they came to a solemn Fetva
(that is a Resolution of the Law) whereby it is decreed that a Declaration of Warr
against the Muscovites is necessary. Therefore in pursuance of this Solemn Fetva
intending if it please God to go in our Imperial Person to the Warr early in the
Spring; Thou the aforesaid Bashaw art intended to command upon this happy
occasion accompanyd by a Retinue perfectly well disposed and ordered and followed
by chosen and able Men, and thou art to march so as to joyn early in the Spring
my Imperial Camp in the Plain of Adrianople. As soon then as this my Solemn
Mandate shall be delivered to thee, thou art in pursuance thereof immediately to
apply thyself to the forming and perfecting thy Retinue that all their Arms and other
Warlike Provisions may be in readiness, so that the time of thy Departure being
come, thou mayst have nothing to detain or delay thee, warning thee not to bring
men unable and unfit for Warr and the necessary Services, but Men faithful and
sincere chosen and expert in arms, to hold out and persevere to the end of the Warr,
with whom thou art to set out, so as by all means to be at and joyn with my Imperial
Camp in the Plain of Adrianople [36b] early in the Spring. And if according to
what is here prescribed thou does not appear early in the Spring at the appointed
place with thy Retinue and Followers in good and perfect Order, none of thy Excuses
or Arguments will be heard, but thou shalt infallibly be reprehended and incurr
my Displeasure ; Therefore thou art to use all thy Endeavour and give all thy atten-
tion to appear att the time and place appointed ; taking care however not to- take
occasion from hence to exact in thy March from the Inhabitants of the Countrys
thro' which thou shalt pass any Provisions, without paying for them or to use any
other violence, contrary to Justice, and above all not to loiter and fail of being
at the time and place hereby prescribed and appointed. Therefore is this my Sublime
Mandate issued by which I command thee etc. as above.1
[32«]
Let. B. The Imperial Mandate directed to the Bashaw of etc.
In the Year 1123 there happened a Battle between the Czar of Muscovy and
my victorious Army upon the Confines of Moldavia, the said Czar had for several
years past made a show of Friendship to my High Porte, yet having entirely given
himself up to walk in the paths of Fraud and Deceit, the evil Designs he was hatching
against the Mussulman Dominions were discovered; But according to the proverb
or Sentence that all Fraud and Wickedness falls only upon its Author's head who
contrived it, the said Czar's army was, by the help of God, in the said Battle
vanquished and broken, and upon his suing for peace in the most abject manner, the
same was concluded and agreed upon, on certain Conditions : Now the said Czar
having for many years past entered into and infested the Country of Poland with
intent and to the end that, as it borders upon the Mussulman Dominions, when once
1
he should be in possession of it he might afterwards make himself master of the
Mussulman Territorys, among other Articles then stipulated this was one that he
should wholly withdraw from the Country of Poland, and altho' the cutting him
off from any Concern with Poland was more pressing and necessary than anything
else yet he continued there with his army contrary to these Conventions and broke
the Agreement. Wherefore I having the last Year resolved to make War against
him, and it being noised abroad that my Imperial Mandates were sent to several
parts of Asia and Europe to have my Troops got ready, the Muscovite Ostages being
at the High Port, to divert my Imperial March did by the Mediation of the Am-
bassadors of England and Holland pray for a Confirmation of the Treaty of Peace,
engaging for and promising the entire observance of the Conditions therein stipulated;
But the Muscovite conceiving that in the subducing of Poland [326] lay the whole
stress of his evil Intentions against the Ottoman Dominions, and considering that
the parts about Azof did not favour nor were so proper for such his wicked Designs
to bring my high Empire into danger, he surrendered the Fortress of Azof and desired
a term of three months, promising that no Muscovite should hereafter enter into
Poland, and his Troops should all march entirely out of that Country within the time
prefixt; And yet tho' this term was granted and the Conditions were settled, not-
withstanding this Article concerning Poland was more pressing then any other
for the Mussulman Dominions Security, he did not observe it. Whence it is plain
that his desiring a Term was done with no other Design than to delay and gain time,
for that during the same instead of withdrawing his Troops he has suffered them to
remain in Poland to this very time, and moreover besides those which were there
at first he has brought in new Bodys of them and put Garrisons and Provisions into
some Fortresses of Poland. Thus he goes on subducing Poland, but considering
that the Return and arrival of the King of Sweden (who happened to be under the
shadow of my high Empire) into his own Country would be a strong Obstacle to his
Design of subducing Poland he did moreover hinder the said King's going to his own
Country. It is also plain and evident by the Letters written from the Garrison of
Bender, and by the Report of those who returned from Poland being purposely sent
into that Country from my high Empire, that as soon as he should have possest him-
self of Poland according to his wicked Thoughts, he intended to fall suddenly upon
Moldavia and then to attack the Mussulman Frontiers. The Czar having thus anew
broken his Conventions and Promises and the Falsehood and Lyes of the Hostages
being [33a] manifest, it followed that because of the annoyance and evil practises
of the unbelieving Muscovites, the Mussulman Countrys came to be unsafe. There-
fore according to the Noble Rule by which we are directed to take good Advice in
all our Occurrences and Affairs, a Council was called of all the Viziers, wise men,
Doctors and other Councellors and in pursuance of the Noble Fetva (or Resolution)
taken, that it is necessary to make War against the Muscovites, recommending
myself to, and placing my hopes in God, I have firmly resolved to march in Person
in the Spring. Therefore etc.1
1

15 January 1712/3
My Lord
The last I had the honour to write Your Lordship was of the 26th past. The
600,000 Dollars formerly mentioned were paid in Gold to the K. of Sueden's Order
at Bender in the beginning of last month, and a Receipt for the same given out of
Chancery. With this mony his Suedish Majesty hath caused the greatest part of
his Debts to be paid, and Horses, accoutrements and Arms to be bought for his
men, and afterwards desired of the Port 500,000 Dollars more to gain over the Poles
and Cossacks.
I have been assured by good hands, that the Suedes lately insisted, that the
time of His Suedish Majesty's departure should be left to himself. That the opera-
tions of the ensuing Campaign should be concerted with him, and all the Councils
of the Port relating thereto communicated to him. That a diversion should be
made this winter in the Russe Ucraina, and that the Turks should proceed very
cautiously and warily with respect to the Expedition into Poland. They likewise
proposed an Alliance to be made in writing with the King of Sueden before his
leaving Bender, which was rejected, nor is it known or believed that they obtained
any favourable Resolution or answer upon any of the other points. On the contrary
the Gr. Sigr hath shewn the utmost impatience for the King of Sueden's departure
under the Convoy of the Tartar Han, with the Budziack [456] and Nogay Tartars,
which are accounted between 2om and 3Om men, pursuant to which the following
advices have been lately sent me from Adrianople. The 26th past N.S. the Chiaush
Bashi Achmet Aga was dispatched to presse that Prince's departure with promises,
that in case the Poles or Muscovites should oppose or hinder his passage, the Sultan
would support him with all the force possible, and to declare to him, that if he refused
to depart, His Highnesse would be obliged to take other measures, and move this
winter in person from Adrianople to remove him from Bender. On the 30th past
a Capigi Bashi named Halil Aga was sent with the same Orders relating to the King
of Sueden to Bender, whence he was to proceed into Poland, and there not only
declare by word of mouth to the Crown General Seniauski and other Principal men,
but disperse Letters in all places intimating, that in case the Muscovites retired
their Forces entirely out of Poland, pursuant to their Engagements, and the Poles
should permit the King of Sueden to passe thro' that Kingdome with his retinue
and convoy of Tartars as friends, paying with ready mony for what they should
need in their march, then the Peace with those Powers respectively should subsist:
But in case they should reject the Gr. Sigr's Proposal, and any way hinder or oppose
the K. of Sueden's march, they might expect nothing but fire and sword. His
S(uedish) Majesty hath recalled hence Monsr Arvidson a young Officer who having
learned the Turkish language [46a] and been sent with Achmet Beig into Poland
as his Druggerman, and plaid his part well on that occasion, is now pretty much
employed. He departed the 13 th instant in company of Monsr Fierville the French
Envoy, who came lately hither to confer with Monsr Desalleurs.
What I had the honour to acquaint Your Lordship in my last Letter touching
the Assurances given to the Sultan by the French Embassadour and Suedes Ministers,
is certain. As they used to present their Memorials to His Highnesse by the hands
of the Bostangi Bashi, and his Highnesse was willing to hear their Assurances and
representations from their own mouths, the Bostangi Bashi agreed upon a meeting
with Monsieur Desalleurs, Monsieur Funck and Monsieur Poniatowski, who went
in the dresse of the Country to a Kiosk near the Seraglio Point, where the Bostangi
Bashi expected them, and the Grand Sigr having placed himself in another room
behind a lattice window, which looked into the room where they were, overheard
the whole discourse.
'Tis said the King of Sueden made very earnest instances, that the Polish Embr
and Internuntius should be sent to the Seven Towers, or to Bender to be delivered
up to him, or else sent back with disgrace into Poland, that otherwise nothing would
be effected against King Augustus his party. Those two Ministers are confined to
their House; but in other respects not very ill treated, the Embassadour having
an allowance of 150 Dollars per diem [466] and their Retinue having the Liberty to
go abroad, and 'tis said the Ministers of the Port begin to enter into commerce
with them.
Monsr Talman the Emperour's Internuntius had already taken leave to return
to Vienna before the Court's removal to Adrianople. When he was arrived there,
he received by a courier dispatched after the first advice of the new revolution of
affairs here, the Emperour's orders to continue his Residence at the Port. He had
audience of the Vizir upon that subject the 1st current N.S. and insisted to remain
in quality of Internuntius, and send His Secretary to Vienna with the Sultan's
Letter Recredential. But as he had been first Secretary and then Resident from
the late Emperours for these ten years past, Ministers of which characters are never
admitted to audience of the Gr. Sigr and had received the character of Internuntius
only to notify the Emperour's Election and coronation, which commission was
over, and it being the Custome of the two Empires to send Internuntii reciprocally
only on Extraordinary occasions, after which they return home without making
any long Residence, Signor Maurocordato the Druggerman of the Port was sent
to the Internuntius the 3dr>sinstant N.S. to acquaint him, that having already taken
his leave, and the Gr. Sig Letter of Recredence being delivered to him, it was not
conformable to the stile that should continue here, but carry the Letter himself
to the Emperour. [47a] But if the Emperour was pleased to send him to the Port
again, he should be welcome. At the same time it was intimated to him to be
ready to depart in a few daies, which he readily accepted, and accordingly began his
Journey homeward in lesse then a week's time, leaving Monsr Fleischman his Secretary
to observe the Emperour's interests at the Port.
Five small Frigats are fitting out in the Arsenal, being designed to load corn
in the Archipelago and transport it to Assac.
'Tis said that orders are given for bringing a good quantity of corn and Provisions
from Bosnia and Servia down the Danube, there being a scarcity in the parts where
the army is to assemble.

20 January 1712/3
My Lord
I have had the honour to acquaint Your Lordship several times, that the Ministers
of the Port, the Men of the Law, the Soldiery and the People almost universally are
averse to a war with Muscovy or Poland. The Gr. Sigr himself, as well as the Tartar
Han and his friends, have shewn a quite different disposition. His Highnesse's
sincerity in that respect hath all along been suspected, many believing, that the
Deposition and disgrace of the late Vizir and his friends, and his Highnesse's removal
hence were more to be ascribed to other motives and reasons, then to a resolute pur-
pose of war. His offers to advance this winter to the Frontiers are also looked upon
to be [47b] feintes. But whatever ideas the French and Suedes raised in his Highnesse
by magnificent Promises, false accounts of Advantages obtained, representations of
their Affairs—being in a better condition than they really are, and assurances of the
Suedes future Operations in the Empire and Poland, he now appears to be very uneasy
upon rinding them wholly to fail hitherto. He very lately ordered the Bostangi
Bashi to explain himself again with them upon that subject; on which occasion
Monsieur Desalleurs, Monsieur Fierville and Monsieur Poniatowski went in the dresse
of this Country to the Bostangi Bashi's appartment at the Seraglio, and, as I
am told, renewed their former assurances, Monsieur Arvidson doing the office of
Interpreter. But all they could say will scarce satisfy the Gr. Sigr's impatience,
who expected more then appears likely to happen.
On the 7 th of this month an Officer arrived at Adrianople from Bender with
dispatches for Monsieur Funck and a letter from His Suedish Majesty to the Sultan,
to present which he had orders to demand an audience of His Highnesse. Monsr
Funck likewise in his Majesty's name complained of the rudenesse and brutality
of the Chiaoux Bashi Achmet Aga, and that he would have carried him away from
Bender by force ; Declared that His Majesty could not depart from Bender without
the 500,000 Dollars, which he had desired more, nor 'till the Polish Emb r was sent
away, and the Port had acknowledged and [48a] declared for King Stanislaus. And,
as he was doubtfull whether the Port would in earnest continue the War against
Muscovy after his departure (whereof without question hopes have been given him)
for his satisfaction in that point He insisted upon a promise from the Sultan in
writing. On the 9 th N.S. Mehmet Aga, the Capigi, who lately carried the 600,000
Dollars in Gold to Bender, arrived at Adrianople with the confirmation that the
King of Sueden declined leaving Bender 'till he should have received an answer to
the foregoing Points. On the 12th Mehmet Aga the Sultan's first Master of the
Horse was dispatched in diligence to Bender to presse with more earnestnesse His
Suedish Majesty's departure, and after the holding several councils Audience was
refused to Monsieur Funck, and an answer was returned him, that as the Grand Signor
had been informed, that the King of Sueden would be departed from Bender before
that time, it was impossible to lay before His Highnesse such improper Pretensions.
It hath been promised the Polish Emb r that he shall have audience of the
Sultan after the King of Sueden is gone from Bender. These are advices I have
newly received from good hands at Adrianople, and I believe they vary very little
from the truth.
The Chiaoux Bashi has newly written hither [48b] from Bender, that the King
of Sueden had at length let himself be persuaded to depart. If it be true, it will
appear in a short time how far he will proceed with his Convoy of Tartars ; whether
the Poles will oppose their passage and repulse them; and what new Disturbances
and Imbroils may arrise on that occasion ; the undertaking being so ill digested, that,
unlesse the Port hath some secret, unknown intelligence with the Poles, or depends
upon the Capigi Bashi Halil Aga's Negotiations at Lemberg, it might be doubted
what the true Drift and meaning of it are in the Grand Signor's and Tartar Han['s
mind]; for, as to the others who are desirous of peace, 'tis evident their main drift
is to get rid of the King of Sueden in any fashion, imagining they can easily heal
all breaches, when he is once out of the way. Indeed the dislike and aversion of
the Soldiery to this war, the murmurs and dissatisfaction, that already appear, are
almost incredible; insomuch that the Grand Signor himself, if he endeavoured it,
could not engage them in it without great hazard, unlesse he had so specious a
pretext as might in some measure content them, and were sure of good and easy
successe.

[48b] Pera of Constantinople,
22 January 1712/13
My Lord
Two daies ago I received intelligence that the King of Sueden had declared
to the Port that he was willing to depart, and should only wait 'till the Tartars
were in a condition to conduct him. This offer is supposed to [49a] be a fine stroke
of art and Policy ; for advice is since come that the Tartar Han, the Shirin Beigs
and Murzahs refuse to undertake that service under pretence of the hazard and
danger thereof, alledging certain intelligence of great Forces being assembled on the
Frontiers of Poland and Ucraine to oppose and repulse them. This disposition of
the Tartars was unquestionably well known to His Suedish Majesty. What is the
true meaning, ground and bottome of this new incident is not yet known, nor can
be well penetrated. Whether it proceeds from the Tartars Desire of engaging the
Port unavoidably in a war, or from their real apprehension of the Danger or impractic-
ablenesse of the undertaking, whether the Han is the Author and contriver of the
refusal, or whether he only barely concurs with the rest, or lastly the matter be
concerted with or managed by intelligence with the Gr. Sigr is uncertain. It hath
been all along assured that the Han offered and undertook to convoy His Suedish
Majty thro' Poland, and 'tis certain that he has contributed so much to the new
measures lately taken, that he might reasonably fear his own ruine, if they should
not be pursued, And many people think he will incur it by this Proceeding, to which
I question very much the Gr. Sigr>s.being privy by reason of the too rough and
disrespectfull means lately used by his own Creatures and orders to force the King
of Sueden away from Bender, besides that we hitherto see no Preparations for war,
that are of [496] any real Expence to His Highnesse ; neither are any new Levies yet
made to recruit the Bodies of Janissaries, Topgis and Gebegis, which have great need
of it. However the matter be, this unexpected incident casts the Ministers of the
Port into greater confusion and perplexity then they were in before, and possibly
may occasion new changes at the Port. The news of Count Steinbock's having
defeated the Danes army comes very seasonably to support the Credit of the Suedes,
which before was very low and almost entirely lost.
This government being subject to sudden and great changes if things should not
succeed according to expectation may quite alter their councils. The distance of the
place doth not allow me time to wait Your 'Lordship's instructions upon any Emergency.
/ must therefore humbly intreat Your Lordship to signify me Her Majesty's pleasure
how I am to govern myself and what to answer in case upon a new turn of affairs, my
interposition should be desired, the refusal whereof would certainly be resented with
much ill humour and possibly some ill consequences to the trade and navigation of the
nation and if they should at any time invite me to Adrianople it will be difficult to
decline it without great inconvenience.1 There is a report spread about at Adr°Dle
and here that the Tartar Han will be deposed. I am . . .
50. Sutton to Dartmouth. 2

12 February 1712/13
My Lord
I am at present out of the way of news, and as there are factions of great Con-
fusion among the Turcs themselves, and people diversely favouring either the Suedes
interest or that of the Muscovites and Poles, such various and different Stories are
given out, that it's hard to distinguish the truth from falsehood. This situation
of affairs will I hope prevail with Your Lord? the more easily to excuse a small
mistake in my last of the 22 th past. I do not find that the Tartar Han refused to
convoy the King of Sueden, but the Shirin Beigs and Murzahs of Crimea declined
coming to join him with the Tartars under their command ; so that when Mehmet
Aga the Sultan's first Master of the Horse was dispatched to Bender, his orders were
to presse the King of Sueden to depart with 8000 Budziack Tartars and 2000 Turks,
commanded by Ismael Pashaw (which certainly would have been reduced by desertion
to almost nothing before they reached the frontiers of Poland). His Maj*y on the
other side dispatched several Officers to AdrP le with great complaints against the
Han for having neglected to draw together the number of Troops promised, and
accused him of intelligence and friendship with King Augustus, and of a Design
to deliver him up to his enemies. The officers, as fast as they arrived, were confined
to Monsr Funck's House, upon which a great Guard was set, and neither the Envoy
himself nor they permitted to go abroad, nor any Memorials received from them.
At Bender the King of Sueden answering that untill he should have received 1000
1
2
Purses (500,000 Dollars) more from the Sultan or been otherwise supplied with
mony, He was not in a condition to depart, and especially would not march with
so small a convoy, defying the Pashaw of Bender, who signified the Sultan's pleasure
to him, to force him to leave the place before he pleased, saying he would there
wait the Gr. Sigr>s Answer to his Letters, his Tahin or Allowance was cut off, and his
Quarters surrounded by great numbers of Tartars to hinder his being supplied with
Provisions. It hath been written from Bender, and is universally affirmed by the
Turks, that on that occasion His Maj*y ordered a number of Horses to be killed,
which 'tis said the Tartar Han had had presented him, and that his orders were
executed, tho' Mr. Jefferyes makes no mention thereof in his letter to me of the
21 st past, whereof the inclosed is Copy, to which I crave Your Lord?' 3 reference.
Upon receipt of advice of what had passed at Bender the Gr. Sigr sent thither a Capigi
Bashi named [66] Isuf Aga with further orders relating to the King of Sueden, I am not
yet apprised what passed there from the 21 t h ultimo to the beginning of this month.
But on the 5 th inst. about noon a Murzah arrived at Adrianople in three daies from
Bender with the news, that they had assaulted the King of Sueden's Quarters, that
many were killed on both sides. However the Quarters were defended 'till they
brought the canon out of the place and fired upon them, whereupon his Maj*y was
forced to surrender. That the King and about sixty others were put into Fortresse
of Bender to be there kept untill the Grand Sigr should signify his further pleasure
about them. This account is so well warranted, that the truth of it cannot be
questioned in the main, tho' some particular circumstances may be altered.
The Tartar Han, who was the chief Counsellor and Promoter of the late Changes
at the Port and of the Grand Signor's removal hence, and hath all along used the
utmost of his skill and Contrivance to engage the Port in a new war with its
Neighbours, facilitating the execution of the Projects proposed to the Gr. Sigr hath
of late quite altered his Conduct, since the Crim Tartars have disappointed him,
and he hath perceived that at Adrianople things have taken a quite different turn
from what he expected or hoped. Accordingly he has contributed more then any
body at Bender to the violences done to the King of Sueden. Neverthelesse he is
universally blamed, and 'tis generally believed he will not escape his Disgrace. There
lately passed by a Capigi Bashi with 14 Bostangis, who is said to be gone to fetch
the Han's Brother from Rhodes.
What the Grand Signor's intentions are concerning the King of Sueden is not
certainly known. Some say he will be removed to Salonichi to be thence transported
with a Squadron of the Grand Signor's Ships to some Place in Christendome ; Others
with more probability that he will be first brought to Adr°Ple, where Orders have
been given for preparing several large Country Houses near the City ; and that the
Tartar Han is to come thither at the same time. The opinions and conjectures about
the issue of this Event are very various. There are those, who carry their fears
or hopes so far as to imagine, that the Turks to serve their interest may contrive some
way to 'putt him into the hands of his enetnys but as there is no necessity for such a
piece of Treachery, so there seems to [be] [ja] little reason to apprehend it or any
other danger to his person unless from the corruption of Turkish ministers. Others
surmise they will keep him in their hands not only until they have adjusted all Differences
and interests with Muscovy and Poland but until restitution of the sums lent him by
Grand Signor. Others again believe they will endeavour to send him towafds his own
Dominions without much delay either by sea or through the Emperour's Countrys,1
against both which he hath all along declared very steadily. There is now so little
appearance of his venturing to pass thro' Poland with a Turkish Convoy upon any
agreement, that might be made with the Polish Embr, that the thoughts thereof
will be laid aside, unlesse his army comes to fetch him. Those, who have lately
given His Suedish Majesty great hopes, and even assurances of the Gr. Sigr's hearty
espousal of his interests, and his Resolution to renew the War against his Northern
Neighbours, would now flatter themselves and others, that, provided the Suedish
affairs go well in Germany, and that Prince takes a right course in his Remonstrances
to the Gr. Sigr, He may still prevail with his Highnesse to favour his interests in
some measure, but there appear little grounds to expect or hope such a change after
the extremitys which they have carryed things by Grand Signor's positive commands, it is
not impossible indeed but His Highnesse may disown the barbarity of the circumstances
of those proceedings and even disgrace and punish the chief actors in them, and in
case the Ottoman army be obliged to march to the Frontiers this summery Turks will
scarcely fail of giving the Sweds good words again if they find them disposed to be imposed
on. But I [yb] believe it may be accounted sure that they will never have any true
regard to Swedens interest nor engage in earnest in a Warr with Muscovy and Poland,
with which countries they reckon it to be easy to agree matters when they please,
and 'tis possible They may suddenly enter farther into commerce and negotiation with the
ambassador of Poland, who is said to have had a private audience of the Gd Vizier by
night. They hitherto do not carry on preparations as if in earnest designed a Warr
tho' they make some shew of it and 'tis still esteemed certain that Gd Signior will march
from Adrianople for Babbadag before the end of next month. There, are no levies
made for any order of the souldiery, tho' they all want recruiting. No orders have
been yet sent either hither or into Asia for the Janissarys to be ready to march into the
Field and the Preparations are not yet considerable}
The great distance of this place and the sudden changes of affairs not allowing
time to recur to Your Lofp for new orders upon many Emergencies, I have already
several times humbly intreated Your Lorp to be pleased to instruct me fully of Her
Majesty's intentions and pleasure, that I might know how to govern my self in all the
cases and circumstances which might further happen with relation to the concerns of the
Port with the Swede, Muscovy and Poland. I have hitherto found means to excuse
my self from being concerned in their affairs ever since the late Treaty without giving
those disgust or offence, but it may probably be beyond my 2 [8a] skill to avoid dis-
obliging the partys in the future by forebearing to pass any offices between them, for if the
Turks and ambassadors of Muscovy should address themselves to me as having all ready
intervened since the late negotiation or later desire my good offices with the participation
of the Turks and possibly on their suggestion, / cannot decline it without disgusting
both partys and undoubtedly the resentments of the Turk would run so high as to
have a very ill influence on the affairs of Her Majesty's subjects in the Grand Signr''
1
2
The manuscript has your in cipher accidentally written before my.
, DESPATCHES OF SIR ROBERT SUTTON 161
dominions. And such a refusall instead of being agreeable to the King of Sweden's
interest would be prejudiciall thereto, for the Turks would thereupon enter into greater
suspicions and more eagerly hasten their agreement with the Czar. I am . . .
P.S. I have advice that the Gd Vizier will be speedily deposed and the Bassa of Scio
named Halil an old Bassa and able minister put in his place.1
[4a] [Enclosure]
r
Copy of a Letter from M
th
Jefferyes
Bender Jan. 21 O.S. 1713
My Lord
I thought some time ago to have found a sure occasion of acquainting Yr LordsP
with the occurrences at this place ; but an unlucky accident happening, not only
our own affairs have thereby been brought into the greatest Confusion, but all
foreign Correspondence has been interrupted, that occasion whereof is as followethth:
The Grand Seigneur's Imrohor or Master of the horse being arrived here the 10
instant, with full power to Tartar Han and the Pashaw of this place to use all methods
to oblige the King of Sueden to depart from hence in case His Ma*y was not gone
allready, the Pasha went to signify the same to the King, who finding himself
reproached by such a message, answer'd him in plain terms, if thou art a true servant
to thy Master, force Me to go from hence before I please, whereupon the Pasha left8
the King, but the day following the allowance of 500 Dollars per diem for His Ma^'
subsistence was cut off, and some thousand Tartars were dispatch'd to surround
the King's quarters, that no Provision might be brought thither. These guests have
now so far intruded themselves upon the Suedes, that excepting the King's own
Pallace and some few houses in the neighbourhood all the rest swarm with Tartars,
w011 makes the King's headquarters very unsafe at present, the Tartars being obliged
to bring all the Suedes [46] Poles and Cossacks they can meet with to the Pashaw,
where they are kept in prison if not for life at least till these troubles be compos'd ;
these proceedings have so far incens'd His Ma1* against the Han and Pashaw, that
in case they attempt any thing against him by force he is resolv'd to defend himself
to the last extremity, for which purpose he has barricaded all the windows of his
pallace, assur'd the entrances with pallisadoes, pull'd down the houses adjoyning
that might give access to the Tartars and lastly signified to the Hah and Pasha,
that he looks upon them as Enemys and that He will by no means make use of
their escorte but designs to attend here the Emperour's answer to his Letters ;
These being His Maty'B last resolutions Yr Lord8? will easily imagine to w* extremity
our affairs are reduc'd, and to what danger his Ma*y exposes himself and all those
who are by him; but 'tis labour in vain to persuade him to take other measures,
he and his Ministers pretending to have certain Informations that the Han designs
to deliver His Ma*y (when he arrives in Poland) to Sienawski, who instead of conduct-
ing him to his Dominions (as he believes the agreement of the Han andSienawski
may import) will not fail of delivering him into the hands of his Enemys. I have
1
omitted nothing on this occasion that I thought either for Her Majty'8 honour [5a]
or the King of Sueden's Interest; but all what Monsr Fabrice and my self have been
able to effect has been to bring the Imrohor and the Chausbashi to a Conference
with the Suedish Ministers, where however nothing of moment was concluded, but
the Chaus Bashi's proceedings much aggravated and the abovesaid resolutions of
His Ma*y i n a m O re solemn manner declar'd; this happend last monday, the day
before the Chan and Pasha sent an Expresse to the Emp r whose return I suppose
we must attend before we can rightly know w* our fates will be. I send Y r LordBP
here inclosed a translated Copy of the letter wch the G. Seigneur's Imrohor brought
with him for the King.
All Correspondence with this place being now interrupted, I entreat Yr LP
to acquaint the Court of England with the abovemention'd news, and the reasons
I cannot send them the same directly.
It is reported that King Stanislaus arriv'd here incognito the day before this
tumult began, and that the Suedes have found means to Convoy him safely to
Cronstadt, where he yet remains.
[12a] [Enclosure]
Copy of the Turkish Emperor's Letter to the most
serene King of Sweden.1
You our Friend King of Sweden; all necessarys being ready for your Return
into your provinces this winter, an army prepared and the Cham of Crimea and
the Bashaw of Bender commanded to accompany you, who expect your departure.
Therefore upon receipt of this our written order issued by our Imperial Power you
are without any loss of time to depart towards your provinces in such manner as
shall be advised by the Cham and Bashaw of Bender; But if you will not go, and
act to the contrary hereof, consider that other measures will be taken. Therefore
by all Means, begin your Journey without any Delay or procrastination.

[i6«] Pera of Constantinople,
6 March 1712/3
My Lord
Your Lrp. will have observed in the Copy of Mr Jefferyes' Letter of the
21 January wch I transmitted in my last of the 12th past. That Mehmet Aga the
th
Gr. Sigr>s Master of the Horse arrived the 10th past at Bender with His Highnesse's
Orders relating to the King of Sueden. I had the honour to acquaint Your Lp.
in my last, that on receipt of that Prince's answer, and advice of w* had passed at
Bender on that occasion, the Gr. Sigr dispatched a Capigi Bashi named Isuf Aga
thither in great hast with further Orders to the Pashaw, if in case the King of Sueden
persisted in refusing to depart with the Convoy offered him, or to come to AdrPle
1
The Turkish text is printed in my Charles II's stay in Turkey, Appendix i, p. 137. The
Latin version is given on fo. 10a.
with a small number of Officers, he should secure his Person and send him by force
to Adr»le. The Suedes and French pretend, that His Highnesse two daies after Isuf
Aga's departure sent away another Capigi Bashi with a counter Order and directions
to let His Suedish Ma*y continue, as long as he pleased, at Bender. But after Con-
sideration of the circumstance of time and further carefull inquiry I cant find that
His Highnesse ever countermanded his former Order, lemuch lesse that a servant
of the Pashaw, who should have set out from Adr» at the same time as the
2d Capigi Bashicl1reached Bender with advice of the Counter Orderr
before Isuf Aga's
arrival there, w is likewise pretended by the French and Mons Poniatowski. Not
having reed any Letter from Mr Jefferyes since the Assault of the King of Sueden's
Quarters, I am not able to give Your Lrp. a certain and perfect Relation of w* passed
on that occasion. The following acco* is grounded partly on a short Letter from
a private person at Bender, but chiefly on the reports of Monsr de la Mare a French1
Merchant, who was then present, and departed thence a day or two after the Fray.
After the King of Sueden's Allowance of 500 dollars per diem for his subsistence
was taken away, the Tartars, who surrounded his Quarter, according to Orders
carried all the Suedes, Poles and Cossacks they could pick up to the Pashaw, who
kept them prisoners: but they did not succeed in cutting off all Provisions from
the Camp, as was designed, his Ma*y frequently sending out Parties of Horse or
Dragoons, who brought in supplies just sufficient for subsisting 'till some change of
affairs should happen. On the 30 Jan^ in the afternoon the Pashaw drew out . . .
the . . . with all the Janissaries [166] and 10 pieces of Canon, and marched towards
the King's Quarters, the Tartars advancing in a separate body. He sent to summon
the King to depart with the Convoy, that was there ready, or to>sgo to AdrPle, and '
on refusal caused some Vollies of great shot to befiredag* His Ma*y Quarters, and gave
orders for an Attack : but 'tis said the Janissaries declined assaulting the Quarters,
and even fired some shot upon the Tartars, that moved forward to fall on. The
respect the Janissaries shewed for His Ma*y and their loathnesse to bring things to
Extremities while there were any hopes of accommodating matters, are ascribed to
the great gains they have made by loans to that Prince and His Officers in their
necessities with excessive Interest, wch he caused to be punctually and fully paid,
as soon as he reed, monies from the Port. While these things passed Evening
being come, the Pashaw retired into the Town, and employed that night in gaining
over the Janissaries and promised a Reward of 2000 Ducats for those, that should
bring the King alive, and 500 for those that should bring him dead. The next morn-
ing he returned in the same manner, and caused the Canon to fire upon the King's
Quarters, encouraging the Janissaries to begin the Attack. They advancing proposed
to the King to put himself under their Guard and Custody: but His Ma*y gave
them his reasons why he would not then accept the Overture. The King perceiving
things to be coming to Extremities, proposed to the Pashaw to allow him three daies
time for taking his necessary measures, and for receiving some answer from the
1
His report in French is printed in my Charles XII's stay in Turkey, Appendix i, pp. 187—92;
the original is in Paris ; Archives du Ministere des Affaires Etrangeres, corr. pol. Turquie, vol. 52,
pp. 75-7. The assault on the Swedish king's quarters is known in Swedish under the Turkish
name ' Kalabaliken '.
Gr. Sig , but the Pashaw refused to grant him so much as three hours delay. Monsr
r
de la Mare assures, that the Suedes made no resistance, but suffered themselves to
be taken : But the King seeing the Janissaries fire and enter the Barricades in con-
fusion, retired to his Palace at the Door whereof several Officers pressing upon
him His Ma*y happened to fall, and several Janissaries entring pell mell, one of
them fired his pistole at him, as he lay on the ground, so close that the fire scorched
him under the left ear, and the Ball raced his Cheek and grased upon his Nose,
besides wch he was wounded with a scimitar on his left arm near the wrist, but I
know not on w* occasion. When the King was gotten into his Hall, with the assist-
ance of Major Rybin (the only Officer of note then about him) and some of his Trabants
and soldiers He cleared [17a] the Hall of the Janissaries, that were entred in confusion
with them, caused the Door and windows to be barricaded and defended himself
there till night, when, the Turks having set fire to the roof of the House, w011 was
covered with wooden tiles, and the Cieling falling down, He endeavoured to retire
to a Neighbouring house, but in his way in the dark was taken and carried Prisoner
to the Pashaw. His Quarters and those of his Ministers and Officers were entirely
plundered, and they all made Captives. When Monsr de la Mare came away, the
King was under Confinement in the Pashaw's house and only Monsr Grothuss with
him, whome the Pashaw had ransomed. But Monsr Pfeif and several others had
the liberty from those, whose slaves they were, to visit His Ma*y, and we are now
assured that the Pashaw by the Gr. Sig r ' s order is redeeming or recovering all the
Ministers and Officers, that can be found, it being feared that some of those, who
fell into the Tartars hands, may be lost or at least not retrieved for some time. King
Stanislaus was stopped by the Prince of Moldavia at Jassy, as he was passing towards
Bender with five or six Officers in his Company. Upon advice thereof the Gr. Sigr
ordered him to be brought towards AdrPle. Prince Visnoviski and some others of
the Principal Poles are confined in the Castle of Akierman. The Palatin of Kiovia
retreated with his Troops towards the Frontiers of Poland the day before the King's
Quarters were attacked.
The French Emb r whom, as being last arrived upon the place, it would have
been my Duty to wait on first, if the Peace had been published, lately did me the
honour of a private visit, and the same day Monsr Poniatowski came to see me,
from whome I had not reed, that favour in 8 or 9 months. They both with great
Concern intreated me to passe good Offices in favour of the King of Sueden, and
endeavoured very earnestly, particularly the Emb r to prevail with me to write to
the Caimacam of ConstPle insisting, that satisfaction should be given to His Suedish
Ma*y for the grievous affront done to him by a severe punishm4 of all those, who
had had any share in it, and that particular care should be taken by the Port for
the safety of that Prince's Person, declaring that Her Ma*y as well as the [176] other
crowned Heads in Christendome would highly resent the ill treatement he had reed,
and take revenge for any further harm, that might happen to his Person. The
Caimacam being lately promoted to the Port, and I being according to Custome
obliged to pay him a visit of Congratulation, I excused myself from writing to him,
especially in the terms desired, w ch would rather have exasperated, the Gr. Sigr and
his Ministers, then have made any good impression upon them, but assured them
that no Prince had more friendship and affection for His Suedish Ma*y, or would
take the ill treatm* he had reed, more to heart then Her Ma*y and promised to
passe all the Offices convenient and proper for the occasion by word of mouth, when
I should see the Caimacam. Accordingly visiting that Minister two daies after,
I took occasion to acquaint him, that, tho' I had reed, no Letters from the Queen's
Minister residing near the King of Sueden at Bender, I had been informed by a
French Merch1 newly arrived thence,r sof the grievous outrages committed ag* that
Prince, under pretexte of the Gr. Sig ' order, even so far as to set a Tax upon him
and propose Rewards to those, who should-bring him to the Pashaw alive or dead.
I represented to him that the Persons of sovereign Princes are sacred, and so esteemed
by the Osmanlees themselves, that the other Princes and Potentates of Christendome
who live in Amity and Alliance with His Suedish Ma^, particularly the Queen My
Mistresse, could not but be much grieved at and resent the Violence done to him
and be concerned for the safety and better treatement of his Person. That even
His Enemies, would blame and cry out ag* w* had happened as much as his friends.
That all the Laws of Hospitality had been violated in the Person of a Prince, who
had shewn himself the Gr. Sigr's constant friend, and reed, many marks before of
his Highnesse's affection and Esteem. That I assured myself, that His Highnesse
had never given his Orders for such a Proceeding* That therefore there was all
reason to hope, that His Highnesse for his own honour and glory would give His
Suedish Ma1* satisfaction by chastising those who had acted in a manner so contrary
to his Intentions, and therefore [18a] justly incurred his displeasure. That thereby
his Highnesse would leave no blot upon his own Reputation.
The Caimacam answered, that he would make report of what I had said to
the Gr. Sigr, that the outrage committed ag* the King of Sueden was contrary to
His Highnesse's Intentions. That he doubted not but he would punish the Authors
and Managers of it, that he would cause the King of Sueden to be brought to AdrPle
and do him greater honours and civilities then had yet been done him, and take
care to send him home in safety.
The reasons for making this passe in the King of Sueden's favour are so good,
that I have an entire Confidence in Her Majesty's approbation of it, especially since
it is wholly conformable to the orders I formerly reed, from the Earl of Sunderland.
I have several times acquainted Your Lfp of the exceeding warmth and zeal,
with w011 the French Embr hath all along espoused and promoted the King of Sueden's
Interests, and the entire Union and Confidence between him and that Prince's
Favourites and the Ministers employed by him here. I have likewise informed
Your Lfp of the Embr'8 Projects first to keep on foot the troubles in Hungary, and
since the accommodation thereof, to support Prince Rakoczy and his adherents,
who 011
are not comprised therein and lastly to procure them a Retreat in this Empire,
all w proved vain, because at the time they were proposed they found no ingression
with the Turkish Ministers, who considered them as a direct and open Breach of the
Treaty of Carlowitz. That, wch the French have since been working at, is to engage
the Port in a war with Poland and so draw the Emp r into it indirectly, wch could scarce
fail, if the Ottoman arms met with successe. Tho' possibly the King of Sueden's
Interest does not agree with the French in so soon imbroiling the Turks with the
r
Emp , 'Tis evident enough that their designs are the same in the main, and His
Suedish Ma'y as far as can be judged by appearances, is wholly in the French Interest
as far as relates to the House of Austria and the Empire. But I conceive the [186]
King of Sueden's first aims to be the Deposition of King Augustus and Establishment
of King Stanislaus, and the reduction of the Czar to as low a condition as is possible,
with the help of the Ottoman arms, after wcix how far he would carry his Enterprises
in Conjunction or Intelligence and Concert with the French, Turks and Poles ag*
the House of Austria and the other Powers, against whome he hath shewn great
Resentment, I believe no body can tell, it not being an easy matter to stop that
Prince in his Career. There is no room to doubt but they had made great Impressions
upon the Gr. Sigr by nattering him with wonderfull advantages, the Recovery of
all that was lost in the late war with the Christian Confederates, and modelling
this side of the world according to his fancy, for effecting wch they shewed great
facilities, and assured him of the constant friendship and Correspondence of the
French King and King of Sueden, adding that Her Ma*y and the King of Spain
were united with them in Alliance and Counsels. 'Tis perceivable enough that the
Gr. Sigr left this place with a good conceit of their Representations, and would
probably have enter'd further into their views, if all his Ministers, the Men of the
Law and the Soldiery had not combined together to oppose His Highnesse's new
Measures. It was chiefly upon their opposition and intrigues, and the Jealousies
he reed, at Adr»le of the deceitfullnesse and falsehood of the French and Suedes
Promises and assurances, that he seemed to change his Measures, and gave the
rigorous orders relating to the King of Sueden, which happened before the news
came of the Suedes Victory over the Danes and Saxons.1 His Highnesse hath now
somewhat changed his conduct again, and is making the King of Sueden some repara-
tion for the affront lately done him. That Prince is expected some daies hence with
about ioo Persons, that have been recovered out of the Turks and Tartars hands,
at a Village ab* 4 hours distant from AdrPle where the Sultan will have a Communica-
tion with him. There hath been a great Council held at Adr»le the Result whereof
was, that [19a] the King of Sueden should be stopped and kept Prisoner where he
was (viz. that the Gr. Sigr might not see him). That the Muscovite Emb rs should
be called to AdrPle as well as myself and the Dutch Emb r and the Peace be confirmed
or renewed with the Czar, and that the Tartar Han should be deposed. Which
Resolutions the Members of the Council went in a Body to present to the Gr. Sigr.
The Mufti, the Authority of whose Post is great in Matters of that nature, having
strongly opposed the Sultan's entring into Commerce or having any Interview
with the King of Sueden, he was deposed next day, and Ataulah Effendi, then
Caddileskier of Rumelia put in his Place. The Seraskier of Bender hath been likewise
deposed, and Apti Pasnaw of Sophia succeeds him. What other changes will be
made we are expecting to see. But 'tis generally believed the Vizir cannot keep
the Seal long. 'Tis the common opinion, that His Highnesse will see His Suedish
Ma*y by way of Rencounter. What further Resolutions will be taken with regard
to that Prince is yet uncertain. The Capitan Pashaw, who is in great Credit with
the Sultan, was lately sent for to AdrPle where with all his power he opposed the
1
See above. Despatch No. 31.
King of Sueden's being transported by sea, and proposed his being conducted with
a Body of Troops through Poland, which he undertook tor command himself, and
he hath since had some Conferences with the Polish Emb on that subject. The
steps, w* the Sultan hath already made, seem sufficient to shew, that he will at
least endeavour to allay the King of Sueden's Resentments of his late ill treatment.
We shall shortly see whether he will r
go so far as to revive his former Hopes and
Expectations. The French, Mons rs
Poniatowski and those, who have encouraged
that Prince to rely on the Gr. Sig ' friendship and assistance, are labouring with their
utmost Efforts to turn things in his favour, and reunite him with his Highnesse.
For that purpose the Fr.le Embr prevailed with the Capitan Pashawx to r propose
his being called to AdrP which he very faithfully performed. The Emb , whose
first Druggerman was there before, hath now sent Monsr Broue, his Cancelliere and
Druggerman thither, and has made preparations for his own journey thither, without
having hitherto obtained leave for it.
r
[igb] The Polish Emb had audience of the Vizir the 22. past and was promised
audience of the Gr. Sig the 24. for w°b he prepared himself, but His Highnesse did
r
not think fit to receive him, at least at that time.

The preparation for war are as backward, as if these people were unresolved,
whether they should make a Campaign or not. There are a few small Craft called
Fregattines and Volicks fitted out in the Arsenal, but hitherto no Recruits listed for
the Janissaries, Topgis and Gebegis ; Neither do I yet hear that the last orders are
dispatched to the Pashaws and Militia of Asia. Some Vessels have laden ammunition
for Assac, and some others are gone down into the Archipelago to take in Corn, but in
no considerable quantity.
If the Gr. Sigr ever had any real intention to War, it was grounded on suspicions,
whereof he hath since discovered the uncertainty, and 'tis doubtfull whether the
Suedes and French will be able to raise his late ideas again. However He hath
carried things so far, that it does not seem consistent with his honour to sit still.
But as there are no considerable Preparations yet made, nor any Provision to supply
the Dearth and scarcity of Corn and Provender on the Frontiers, and the season
being so far advanced without the Pashaws and Troops of Asia being in any forward-
nesse to march, 'tis not certain they will stir from AdrPle. Or if they do, 'tis easily
foreseen they will be late in the field, and scarce in a condition to undertake
any thing of consequence, if they designed it. There is so great and universal a
dislike of this Northern war, that no Man of any reputation hath yet appeared to
promote or approve it, and so good an Understanding and Concert among all Orders
of men, who traverse and oppose it, that there never were greater dispositions to
sedition and mutiny, or greater danger of Novelty and Changes, then there would
be, if the Gr. Sigr should peremptorily resolve to engage in War.
I have been honoured wth Your Lorp's of the 12. Decr and have given advice
of the Prolongation of the Armistice wth France and Spain to the Consuls of the
respective states. I am . . .
1
Ibrahim Hodja, afterwards Grand Vizier.

16 March 1712/3
My Lord
Since rny last of the 6 th instant the Gr. Sigr hath dispatched Mehmet Aga his
first Master of the Horse back to Bender to fetch the Tartar Han and Ismael Pashaw
the Seraskier, being resolved as they say, to examine strictly into the outrage com-
mitted against the King of Sueden. 'Tis generally believed the greatest blame will
fall upon the Pashaw.
The King of Sueden is arrived at the Seraglio prepared for him in the Village
of Zumlikioy four hours distant from Adrianople.
On the 9th the French Emb r rec'd leave to go to AdrPle and accordingly departed
hence the 12th instant. If it be not possible to engage the Port to espouse the
interests of the King of Sueden and King Stanislaus so far as to enter into War with
Muscovy and Poland, 'tis little doubted but he will however endeavour to intrude
himself into the Negotiation with Poland, that he may be the better able to render
service to King Stanislaus and his Adherents. Your Lorp will find inclosed the Polish
Emb r ' s Proposals touching the King of Sueden's Passage and for confirming the Peace
of Carlowitz, as I have recd them from AdrPle.
The Dutch Emb r in concert with those of the Czar lately sent his Druggerman
Monsr Theyls to AdrPle to make Overtures of Peace. After a short stay there, he
returned hither the 13 th inst. with a Commission from the Port for the Emb r to dis-
course with the Muscovite Emb rs for wch purpose the Port sent an order that he
should have liberty to enter into the Seven Towers and converse with them as long
as he pleased. Accordingly yesterday He had a long Conference with them, the
particular subject whereof I do not know. Only I have heard, that He was to inquire
what Powers and [22b] Orders they have to treat, and to sound them Whether they can
make any New Concession to save the Gr. Sigr>s honour by the appearance of a satis-
faction for the reasons He had to declare War anew, and move in person to AdrPle.
The dispositions to Peace are so great on this side, that, if the Muscovite Emb rs are
delivered out of the Seven Towers, it will scarce fail to be renewed either at AdrPle
or on the Frontiers, if the Turks should take the field; for there is little reason ta
doubt but they would carry the Emb rs along with them for that purpose.
. If the Gr. Seignior should incline to peace without going into thefield,it is possible
he may send for me to Adrianople, my refusal to comply there in declining to meddle in
the negotiation would assuredly be very ill taken and resented ; wherefore I am forced once
more humbly to intreat your Lordship to give me positive orders and Instructions how I am
to govern in that or like case, that I may know how to conform myself to Her Majesty's
intentions and pleasure.2
The preparations for War are for the present at a stand. The last Orders for the
March of the Pashaws and Troops of the Provinces are not yet dispatched. There
1
This letter, but not the enclosure, is in Sutton's hand throughout. The Italian version
of the
2
enclosure is on fo. 20a.
is no discourse of raising Recruits for the Janissaries, [23a] and Gebegis, No Horses,
Mules or Camels bought for the Artillery and Baggage, nor any Magazins providing
on the Frontiers, wch is now more necessary then ever by reason of the great scarcity
of Wheat and Provender in those parts, if the Army be to assemble there. I am . . .
P.S. I have been assured since the writing what is above, that the subject of Monsr
Theyls journey hither from AdrPle was only to inquire whether the Muscovite
Emb rs have Power to treat and renew the Peace in the manner it was last year
concluded, And that they have answered that they are willing and sufficiently
empowered to treat, if they may remove to AdrPle, with a Mediation approved
by both Parties.
[14a] [Enclosure]
Adrianople the 6 th March 1712/3
Yesterday the Polish Ambassador visited the Reis Effendi and made the follow-
ing Proposals to him :
Since the sending of Letters by the Splendid Porte to the most Serene Republick,
I have been sent hither in the quality of Great Ambassador to renew the peace
concluded at Carlowitz between the Splendid Porte and the most Serene King and
Republick of Poland ; and whereas the chief point now in Question is this, that the
Splendid Porte pretends that a secure Passage be given to the King of Sweden, I do
in the King's name and upon my Honour promise that a free and secure Passage shall
be allowed to his Swedish Ma*y thro' the very middle of Poland and he shall not be
attackt either by Muscovites or Tartars.
That the Seraskier with 6000 Turks should conduct him as far as Dantzick.
That in the March some hundreds of Poles may be in the Front and others in the
Rear for his greater safety.
That there may not go with the King any Cossacks or Tartars, and that His
Ma*y (jo not take with him any of other nations pretending them to be Swedes.
That no Polander shall attack any Swede, and likewise the Swedes are to promise
not to commit any Disorder in Poland.
That the Swedes shall be obliged to pay in ready mony for the victuals and
other Provisions, that shall be furnisht to them.
That when the King shall be arrived at Dantzick and Swedish ships are come
to transport His Ma*y the Seamen not to be allowed to come on shore under any
pretence.
That when the Seraskier shall have given an account of the King's being arrived
at Dantzick in safety and honour, the Poles who adhered to the King of Sweden shall
in twenty Daies after be allowed with all Freedom and Safety to return to their native
country and shall be restored to their former Honours and Estates for which the King
engages his word*

17 March 1712/3
My Lord
This morning I have recd advice from AdrPle that the Port being come to an
Agreement with the Polish Emb r touching the King of Sueden's Passage, and the
Pardon and Restoration of King Stanislaus Adherents upon the foot of the Pro-
posals which I transmitted Your Lofp. in mine of yesterday, hath resolved to renew
the Treaty concluded at Carlovitz with that Kingdome. This is not yet publickly
known, nor so well ascertained as that I can assure Your Lofp. thereof, but I believe
it to be true, and as soon as it comes confirmed, I shall not fail of informing Your
Lofp. of it. . I am with all respect . . .
There is advice arrived at AdrPle that the Crim Tartars have made an incursion
into Ucraina, and that the Muscovites had approached Assac with a Body of
30,000 men.
24 March 1712/3
My Lord
The last which I had the honour to write Your Lorp. were the 16 and 17th current,
since which time I have recd no further advices from AdrPle touching the Conclusion of
the Agreement with the Polish Emb r . But the affair is esteemed as good as adjusted
between the Port and the Emb r . But I am informed, that the King of Sueden, who
is arrived at Dymotocha 2 with about 100 Persons in his Retinue, absolutely rejects
what relates to his Passage.
As for the Negotiation going to be set on foot wth the Muscovites, Your Lo?p.
will please to take the following acco* of what I have been able to learn or penetrate
concerning it, and to excuse the hast, in wch I am forced to write, that I may not lose
the opportunity of the Conveyance. The Ministers of the Port had made such broad
signs, that they wanted only Proposals of Peace to be made to 'em, that everybody
very easily understood them. I am apt to believe likewise that they got it insinuated
to the Muscovite Emb rs , as they are used to do on such occasions, that if they would
find a way to make overtures, the Port would readily receive them and enter into
Treaty. Accordingly about three weeks ago orders were given, that the Emb rs should
have more liberty and be better treated then before in the Seven Towers, tho' they
had already managed Secret Correspondences abroad, and in particular with Monsr
Theyls the Dutch Druggerman a Roman Catholick, who entirely governs the EmbT
having all done his businesse and written all his Letters to the Pensionary of Holland
and Greffier Tagel. There is little doubt but he was sent to AdrPle above a fortnight
ago in concert with the Muscovite Emb rs and still less that He made the first over-
1
2
Demotica, a town near the lower Maritza.
r
tures to the Reis Effendi, though the Emb pretends that he enjoyned the Druggerman
at his Departure [266] hence to make no advances of that kind, and that the Reis
Effendi made the first motion to him, encouraging him to enter into the businesse,
and that many assurances, that the Vizir and all the Ministers of the Porte andr
Members of the Great Council were wholly inclined to Peace, and that the Gr. Sig
was in the same disposition and would readily give way to a Treaty for renewing the
Peace, but expected the first advances to be made to him. Accordingly
r
after Talkish
or Report in writing had been 1made to his Highnesse of Mons r
Theyls his Overtures,
He was sent back with an Imp Firman for the Dutch Emb to see and Discourse with
the Muscovite Emb rs . He first sentle the said Druggerman to 'em to give them an
account of what had passed at AdrP and acquaint them with his Commission from
the Port, and on the 15th visited them himself in person in the Seven Towers. About
the same time the Capitan Pashaw, who treated with the Polish Emb r and is at
present in great favour with rsthe Sultan, sent his Druggerman with much the same
Errand to the Muscovite Emb . I understand that they were authorized by the Port
to inquire of the Emb rs whether they have Power to treat and confirm the Peace, and
that their answer was, that their Power having never been recalled, they were ready
to treat and renew the Peace, if the Port thought fit to call them to AdrPle for that
purpose. The Capitan Pashaw's Druggerman returned first with this Answer, and
Monsr Theyls followed the 16th instant. The Port being satisfied with Answer, tho'
I doubt much whether the Embr have so muchthas new orders from the Czar, the
Capitan Pashaw's Druggerman came back the 21 with a Capigi Bashi appointed to
carryleMessTS Schaffiroff and Sheremeteff with about 20 Persons in their Retinue to
AdrP . They have prepared themselves in hast for their journey, and will depart
this afternoon.
[27a] The Port seems to be running very hastily into Peace, and those who are
at AdrPle and see the Managem* of the Ministers, imagine that nothing is wanting
but the Presence and Proposals of the Muscovite Embrs. The Gr. Sigr has deposed
and banished the Kisler Aga and Hasnah Kayasi, and demands from the former
1500 and from the later 500 Purses of mony. Ali Pashaw his son in Law is also fain
under his Displeasure, but 'tis believed the Pashaw's disbursement of 1000 or
1500 Purses will reconcile him to His Highnesse. The Tartar Han is deposed and
banished to Scio, and Mehmet Aga the first Master of the Horse exiled to some other
place. All these counselled leor concurred with His Highnesse's late measures and
Resolution to move to AdrP or to the Frontiers. The Bakers designed to serve in
the Campaign had recd the best part of the monies to be advanced to them according
to Custome to provide themselves with Horses and things necessary for the service,
and presented a Memorial for the Remainder, but instead of receiving it, they and
others, who had recd monies in advance on the like account, were ordered to restore
the same.
'Tis said the Gr. Sigr hath designed the Capitan Pashaw to command the King
of Sueden's Convoy, and 'tis certain he hath the charge to make his Ma*y an Equippage,
all that He or His Ministers and Officers had, having been plunder'd and lost at
Bender. The French Embr and the Capitan Pashaw were going to wait on His M*
at Dymotocha.
M
The Turks are already displeased, and have shewn some ill humour against it
for my coldness as they term it, and / am in great fear lest the Grand Seignior should
call me with the Dutch Minister to Adrianople. The circumstances of affairs being
now very different from that they were when Your Lordship gave me Her Majesty's
orders in your Letter of the eleventh of March last. I apprehend the excuse we1i I am
therein (276) directed to make, would not be well received, neither do I conceive that my
declining to concern myself, would produce any good effect but quite the contrary.
Tho' the Turks and Muscovites are desirous of my intervening in their negotiations for
their own Decorum, especially the Turks, who have reasons peculiar to themselves, if
it should be refused, these last would but enter into greater jealousies and in probability
precipitate their treaty the more, whereby besides the other inconveniences ensuing from
their Resentments, an opportunity may be lost of governing some point or other accord-
ing to Her Majesty's desire. I shall therefore expect your Lordship's further positive
order with great impatience least should fall into perplexitys out of which / shall be at a
loss how to extricate myself before I receive them.x I am . . .
55. Sutton to Dartmouth. 2

[39«] Pera of Constantinople,
28 March 1713
My Lord
The 24 th of this month the day of date of the last, which I had the honour to
write Your Lorp the Vizir Azem Soliman Pashaw and the Capitan Pashaw 3 exchanged
Places. I have already acquainted your L6rp that the French have for some time
courted the friendship of Ibrahim Pashaw the new Vizir, who hath been all along
in the Gr. Sig r ' s favour, but was not esteemed either of rank or qualifications requisite
to mount to that Post, and his Promotion is much wonder'd at and disliked in general,
being a man of no Experience in affairs of state and Government, tho' he is of good
natural parts and courage, and has several other good qualities. It will appear in a
short time of what advantage this change will be to the King of Sueden's affairs.
In the mean while Achmet Aga the Chiaoux Bashi hath been deposed and banished
to Magnesia, and repeated advices from AdrPle say the Gr. Sigr hath sent for Ismael
Pashaw the late Seraskier of Bender's Head, so that for His Suedish Ma^' 8 satis-
faction all those, who had any share in the late outrage committed against Him,
have been disgrac'd and punished. The very same persons and the Kisler Aga
contributed most by their Counsels or Concurrence to the Gr. Sigr>s late measures and
motion hence, and there are strong grounds to suspect that they raised his hopes, that by
those means he should compasse his whole design in prevailing on K. of Sweden to
depart, in frightening the Czar and Poland into a compliance here with his divers comming
that Prince his Passage and perhaps into other concessions. B u t these Imaginations
having in great part failed, and these trains ha . . . [396] great division, confusion
and unsteddyness in their counsels, they have neglected to put themselves into a posture
1
8
These passages are in cipher in the manuscript.
3
Ibrahim Hodja, admiral and afterwards Grand Vizier.
to be feared or to undertake any thing of consequence this year, if they should resolve to
enter into war whereof there are no signs. There are no levys or other preparations
made no magazins provided nor orders given.1
The French Emb r hath gained so far as to be employed between the Port and the
King of Sueden, and is using his utmost endeavours to introduce himself into the
negotiations between the Port, the Muscovites and Poles. I am told that there are
some thoughts of the Port making an Offer to procure the King of Sueden a Peace
with his Enemies, which, if there be any truth in it, will appear a very extraordinary
Proposal and Undertaking.
The Gr. Sigr has sent for Sultan Caplan Gheray from Rhodes to succeed his
Brother Sultan Devlet Gheray the late Tartar Han. This is the second time that he
has taken the later's Place.2 The pretended incursion of the Crim Tartars into
Ucraina is not confirmed, and I very much doubt the truth of it.
Some daies before the present Vizir received the seal he feigned an indisposition,
under pretext whereof he declined further Conferences with' the Polish Emb r so that
I believe There is yet no agreement finally concluded with the said Emb r . The Baron
Schaffiroff and Major Gen1 Sheremetev departed hence for AdrPle the 24 th current.
Some daies before the last Vizir's deposition he wrote the King of Sweden a Letter
and sent him a Present [40a] of 2000 Ducats, 2 Horses with rich furniture, a sable
Pellis, and a piece of Cloth of Gold, which 'tis said His Ma^ at first made a difficulty
to accept, but was afterwards persuaded to receive them. I am . . .

25 April 1713
My Lord
My last was of the 28 th past, since which time the old Emb r Tolstoy, Monsr
Abraham Lapuchin the Czar's Brother in Law, and all the Muscovites have been
taken out of the Seven Towers and carried to Adfple.
'Tis given out that the Crim Tartars have met with good successe in their incur-
sions into Ucraina, but that those of Budziack were warmly received, left a good part
of their men behind them, and the rest are returned without Booty.
The Vizir having invited the King of Sueden to remove from Dymotocha to
Demirdesh 3 a large House built by Cara Mustafa Pashaw, within half an hour of
Adrianople. His Majesty came thither privately with his retinue on the 9 t h instant.
On the 12 th the Vizir, having caused his Tents to be pitched and an Entertainm* to
be prepared near Demirdesh, went out thither with the New Tartar Han, Sultan
Caplan Gehray, the Heads of the Janissaries and the Ministers of the Port and sent
the Druggerman of the Port to invite the King of Sweden to the Entertainment and to
be present at a Council to be held afterwards : but His Majesty declined it, excusing
1
* Kaplan Giray I had been deposed in 1707 to make way for Dawlat Giray II, who had been
Khan3 earlier from 1698 to 1702.
Demirtash Pasha sarayi, i.e. ' the palace of Demirtash Pasha '.
himself upon his Indisposition, and chose rather to treat with the Vizir by the inter-
position of the French Embassadour. The 13th the Tartar Han, Mufti, Recab
Caimacam, [41S] Cadileskiers, and chiefs of the Orders of Souldiery were assembled
at the Vizir's House, where he caused the usual Prayer to be made for successe in War.
The next day the Vizir was put between the Gates, and strangled that night,
having kept the seal but 21 daies. The Recab Caimacam Ali Pashaw officiates 'till
the arrival of the New Vizir. Who is designed for that Post is not yet known.
The late Vizir Ibrahim Pashaw being of a temper and disposition suitable to the
Designs of the French and Suedes, the Emb r had by an early Courtship and culti-
vating his humour gained much credit with him, wherein Sigr Constantine Ventura
the Vizir's Druggerman, who was very much in his Master's favour and hath a sister
married to Monsr Magy a French Merchant very deeply concerned with the Suedes,
was extremely usefull to him.
The reasons given for the Vizir's sudden and hasty downfall are many. i° His
having affronted and slighted the Mufti and Men of the Law. 20 The misunder-
standing and opposition between him and the new Tartar Han and Ali Pashaw the
Recab Caimacam. 3 0 The jealousies and disgusts he had given the Janissaries, who,
as well as all others in general murmured against his promotion and Governm* and
openly withstood his intentions of going into the field. 40 'Tis pretended he caused
the Prayer to be made for successe in the War without the Gr. Sigr'8 [42a] Order.
At least his conduct in that particular is disowned.1
As for the present situation of affairs, all I can inform your LordP of it as fol-
loweth. They have hitherto given the King of Sueden no mony, allowing him only a
Tahin for the subsistence of himself, and his Officers, who are in a very mean condition
having lost all their Equippage.
The Janissaries of Egypt, who were accounted 3000 at the time of their imbarca-
tion, are arrived here being reduced to lesse then 2000 men by the plague, which
reigned among them in their voyage.
Topal Isuf Pashaw of Kiutahic is arrived at Kallipoli, where he hath been
commanded to stay 'till further orders.
The late Vizir had prepared commands for the March of the Pashaws and Troops
of Asia and Anatolia : but I am not yet certainly informed whether they were dis-
patched, or if they were, whether they have been recalled. In the mean time none of
the Pashaws or Troops are yet in motion, nor any Preparations for war carried on,
all things seeming to remain in suspense till the arrival of the New Vizir. However,
there appear no dispositions for War, and I am assured by good hands that the Mufti
hath given the Czar's Ambassadors to understand that the Port hath little or nothing
to explain with them.2 'Tis written likewise from Adrianople that it would [42ft]
suddenly be intimated to the King of Sweden, that he should depart to be conducted,
pursuant to the agreement made with the Polish Emb r by a Pashaw and 6000 Turkish
Horse thro' Poland to Dantzick, or otherwise that he may take his own course, and
expect no further assistance from the Port, upon the new Vizir's arrival things will
in all likelihood be brought to some fixed determination.
1
These words are in cipher in the manuscript.
2
The Chiaoux Bashi is come hither from Adrianople to dispatch away the Capitan
Pashaw with the Gallies, Fregattines and Cangibashes to the Palus Maeotis with
orders to transport stones from Taganrog to perfect the fortifications of Assac, and
rebuild the Fort called Petroski in an Island of the Tanais opposite to Assac. I
am . . .

12 May 1713
My Lord
I troubled Your LordP last under the 25th past. The Janissaries of Egypt have
received orders to march to Adrianople. The Capitan Pashaw departed about the
end of last month with the Gallies and small craft for the Palus Maeotis to transport
Stones, and assist in finishing the Fortifications of Assac, and rebuilding the Fort
Petroski, as I have already had the honour to inform your LordP.
Ali Pashaw the Gr. Sigr'8 Sonin Law, after having in vain used all his Endeavours
and interest to excuse himself, hath been forced to receive the seal. The King of
Sueden's affairs seem to be upon a worse foot then ever. Advices from Adrianople
say it hath been intimated to him to depart with a Convoy of 5 or 6000 Turkish
Horse, to be conducted through Poland to Dantzick. 'Tis said His Majesty insists
upon a greater number of Spahis and a Body of Tartars. The Port hath not hitherto
lent him any more mony, tho' his Envoy makes instances for it, and his Majesty
is in great need thereof. It'srs pretended, that the New Tartar Han and Mufti have
given the Muscovite Embass [43ft] assurances, that there is no war designed against
the Czar, and they write from Adrianople that by the Gr. Sigr's Order the French
Embassadour had been desired to return to his usual residence here. I am . . .
P.S. Letters just now arrived from Adrianople say the French Embr was to begin
his journey, hither yesterday. That Topal Iusuf Pashaw was called to the
Port, as some think to receive the seal. They do not suffer people to go
freely to the King of Sueden's Quarters' as before.1

26 May 1713
My Lord
Since my last Osman Aga the Gr. Sigr's Capigilar Kehayasi and the Reis Effendi
His Highnesse's Commissaries have had one or two Conferences with the Muscovite
Plenipotentiaries, of whome they demanded the Reestablishment of the usual Pension
of 40,000 Ducats per annum, paid formerly by the Czar to the Tartar Han, and a part
of Ucraina near the River Samara. 'Tis believed the Port will not insist on the later,
but proposed it chiefly with a Design to bring the Muscovite more easily to yield to
1
The postscript to this letter is in Sutton's own hand.
the former, to which the Emb re Plenipotentiaries answered, that that matter was not
proper to be couched in writing. But they would understand themselves about it
with the Tartar Han and endeavour to content him. This answer was not satis-
factory, but was said to have raised the Gr. Sigr's Anger. Some daies after the
Plenipotentiaries caused a Memorial to be presented in open Divan, insisting on a
final Determination of their Affairs, which having been read to the Vizir, he with an
apparent heat and passion said publickly We are ready for war, our Troops are in order
and all Provisions made.1 Thereupon the guards of the Emb rs Pleniprles were aug-
mented, and they were closely confined, and Orders were [506] given for writing Com-
mands for the March of the Pashaws and Troops. The Tartar Han likewise sent
back the presents, which he had received from the Pleniples and neither haughty
language, nor menaces nor any thing else was omitted, that might contribute to
fright them into a compliance. But no Comands have been hitherto dispatched, nor
are there really any preparations made, nor is it possible for the Turks to bring
any considerable number of Troops into the Field before the season for action be
almost over. Some say the Tartar Han pretended not onely the payment of the
above mentioned Pension for the future, but the Arrears for 15 years past, since
weh time it hath been abolished. The Plenipotentiaries endeavour to compound the
matter by paying him a sum of mony for the present, their first offer being of
30,000 Dollars. This is the last intelligence I have of the state of those affairs. It
was said that the Tartar Han would leave Adrianople the 21st instant, but he con-
tinued there the next day, and no certain time was fixed for his departure. At the
same time that the Ministers of the Port huff the Muscovites, the King of Sueden
has by the Gr. Sigr's order been pressed anew to consent to depart and passe thro'
Poland in the manner I have already informed your Lord? with grievious threats in
case of refusal [51a]. In the mean time they leave that Prince and his attendants
in a very mean condition, without lending him any more mony, notwithstanding the
earnest instances of his Ministers, and if they can come to any agreement with the
Muscovites, 'tis feared they will treat him very rudely.
The Czar's invasion of Moldavia two years ago having left deep impressions of
jealousy in the Turks, the late Vizir Isuf Pasha counselled the fortifying several
Posts to cover and secure that country from the like in the future, and 'tis said they
are now disposed to follow that advice ; for which purpose, and to favour the King
of Sueden's Passage through Poland, I hear they intend to send a Body of Troops
to the Frontiers, altho' they should adjust all matters in difference with the Musco-
vites, whereof little doubt is to be made.
Kiosse Halil Pashaw is appointed Seraskier of the Forces, and it is not yet
certainly known what other Pashaws are to be under his Coffiand. The Place w**
according to assurances given me, they design to begin to fortify this summer, is
Choczin, weh is on Polish ground. Damat Ali Pashaw is not yet declared Vizir Azem,
tho' in all respects he acts as such and is to remain with the Gr. Sigr at Adrianople.
[516] The French Emb r arrived here about a week ago from AcTrple not at all
satisfied wth his Negotiations and treatment there, nor with the condition of the King
of Sueden's affairs. He could not obtain leave to see his Majesty before his depar-
1
ture, but saies that after he was convinced that his Majesty had no good to expect
from the Port, he had used his best endeavours to persuade him to depart, but did not
find his Majesty inclined to hearken to his Counsel in that particular. I am . . .
P.S. The differences between the Port and the Muscovites remained undetermin'd
the 24 th instant, and 'tis said the Tartar Han will do all in his power to prevent
a confirmation of the Peace untill he receives the satisfaction upon his Preten-
sions, which 'tis believed the Czar's Emb r s are not in a capacity to give him,
unlesse he moderates them very much. Before his Departure from Adrianople,
which cannot be deferred much longer, the Port must come to some Resolution.
Whatever it be, the Turks are not in a condition to bring any considerable army
into the field this year, and in all appearance they desire nothing more then to
make up matters in such manner, as may save the Gr. Sig r ' s honour and content
the Tartar Han in some measure. 1

1 June 1713
My Lord
I had the honour to write your LordP the 26 th past, since which I have received
advices very well warranted, that the Tartar Han is satisfied with the sum of mony
offered him by the Muscovite Emb r s for the present, and their verbal Promises for
the future, and. some persons who are well acquainted with what passes at Adrianople,
assure me that he has already received part of the mony. There is no further
discourse about the other demand of a district in Ucraina upon the River Samarra ;
but upon the adjustment of the Han's Pretension the Port advertised the King of
Sueden to be ready to depart for Bender in 12 daies time, without having hitherto
advanced him any mony, tho' that Prince and his Attendants have as great need
thereof as 'tis well possible to have, and the people he left at Bender from the common
soldier to the General are said to have rec d no more for their subsistence then 4 or
5 aspers, w°h are lesse then two pence, per diem, insomuch that many of them have
been forced to turn Turks, and the Officers must have suffered extremely unlesse
they have been able to find a little credit.
Kiosse Halil Pashaw, Topal Isuf Pashaw of Kiotahie and Haggi Mustafa Pashaw
are [526] arrived at Adrianople. 'Tis said the first is appointed Seraskier, and the
last is certainly made Pashaw of Bender. Ali Pashaw of Diarbekier, son of the
famous Cara Mustafa Pashaw 2 and some few others are expected with the Spahis of
their Governments. As far as we can learn the Port's intentions, some of these
Pashaws are designed to conduct the King of Sueden through Poland with about
6000 Spahis, and the rest are to begin to fortify Choczin. 'Tis affirmed that they
intend likewise to fortify Braila, the place upon the Danube which General Renne
w1* a Detachment of Muscovite Dragoons took two years ago. At least 'tis certain,
1
4
Kara Mustafa Pasha, Grand Vizier, who commanded the Turkish Army during the (second)
siege of Vienna by Turks in 1683.
that the late Meimer Aga or Master Builder has been to survey the Place, and is
returned to Adrianople w th his report. I have nothing further to trouble your LordP
with for the present besides the profound respect wherewith I am . . .
P.S. The Suedes give out that they have still hopes of the war going on, pretending
that the Tartar Han sent his Druggerman to his Suedish Majesty with assur-
ances thereof a few daies ago. The conduct of the Port is such a confused
Piece of folly, as [53a] neither the Turks themselves nor any body else can
understand. But I cannot perceive the least true design or inclination in them
to pursue the war, and 'tis evident that to this very day they have made no
Preparations for it.
Others say that there is a new Act or Hogiet to be drawn up between the
Port and the Muscovite Emb rs . If that be true, 'tis not impossible but the
Baron Schaphiroff may have consented to secure the Tartar Han's Pension in
Writing.1

10 August 1713
My Lord
I am honoured with Your Lofp's of the 8 th and 12 May and shall be observant
of Her Maty'8 pleasure. I have advice from Vienna that many of my Pacquets
have been long stopped on the Frontiers and there are so great difficulties made of
letting them passe as well in this country, as at Peterwaradin, that I have not had
an opportunity of paying My respects to Your Lorp since the first past, and if your
Lofp does not regularly receive accounts from me of what is transacted in these
parts henceforward, you will please to impute the default to the want of good Con-
veyances. I shall however be carefull to make use of all those, that shall present.
Your Lorp will find inclosed an Extract of the New Treaty with the Muscovites,
wherein the Tartar Han's Pretension is remitted to be treated and agreed to the
satisfaction of both parties on another occasion, without any expresse Clause declar-
ing that the Treaty shall subsist whether such agreement shall ensue or not. If
there be no verbal Convention between the Port and Muscovite Emb rs about that
point, it will leave a Door open for further Disputes, which the Tartars will not fail
to foment. But the Turks have little regard to them, when they are otherwise
satisfied.
Since my last on occasion of several Fires, which broke out at ConstantPle and
were difficultly extinguished, the chief Men of the Law and the Heads of the Militia
made a Petition to the Gr. Sigr representing that His Highnesse's Presence was neces-
sary in the Capital City, which the Mufti Ataulah Effendi is said to have seconded.
Soon after, He, the Reis Effendi and Tefterdar Effendi were deposed. Mahmud
Effendi, a man of little learning or Esteem hath been put in [54b] the place of the
first, and Bekir Effendi, who is superannuated, hath lost his Memory, and is little
capable of Businesse hath succeeded the second. These Changes with those which
1
preceeded, have entirely broken and dispersed the Party of the late Ministry, there
remaining no Pashaw at the Port, except the Vizir Azem himself, who hath not left
any man either in the Seraglio or Ministry, that hath been in any considerable Post
or Credit. He likewise caused the rest of the Janissaries, except two or three Cham-
bers and the Oturacks, who are like Milites Emeriti and receive a dead pay without
being obliged to go into the field, to march hence, and the greatest part of those,
that were at AdrPle to march thence to Bender. But their Chambers, as well as those
of the Topgis and Gebegis are so thin, and so many of them desert and return back,
that, if a good Garrison be left in that Place 'tis believed there will scarce be above
8000 Foot to go into the field. Many Pashaws of Anatolia, and some of Rumelia are
also marched to the Frontiers very slenderly attended by the Zaims 1 and Timariots 2
of their Provinces : But there being no Boluk Spahis,3 who received pay from the
Government, 'tis supposed that all the Forces together will not much exceed
20,000 Men. With these Troops and the Tartars, that can be drawn together, the
Tartar Han and the Seraskier of Bender have Orders to move with King Stanislaus
and his adherents, to whome the Port hath presented 75,000 dollars, to Chozin, where
all the Troops will scarce be assembled before the 15th instant. 'Tis not doubted
but they will dispatch Messengers thence with their Demands to the Republick of
Poland, and wait there to see whether any considerable Party of the Poles will
declare for or come over to King Stanislaus. The many assurances, which have been
given the Turks, that, if they would only appear with an army on the Frontiers of
Poland in favour of that Prince, have afforded them a fair opportunity to professe
to him and his adherents, that they have his Interests chiefly [55a] in view, and 'tis
given out that at an Interview, which He had with the Tartar Han, the latter assured
him, that he might rely on the Gr. Sigr's good Intentions for him, and his Design to
endeavour to establish him on the Throne of Poland. The continuation of the war
between the Empire and France, and the facility, which the Polish Emb r shewed in
his late negotiations at the Port, are supposed to have encouraged the Turks to make
these motions. The Tartar Han, to whome 'tis said the Gr. Sigr has committed the
chief management of this affair, being in appearance disgusted at his not having
received satisfaction in his Pretension of the former- Pension from the Czar, may
endeavour to create new Broils, if he be not gained. But there is great reason to
believe, that the Turks have no real Design to support King Stanislaus, at least
unlesse a greater Party declares for him then seems reasonable to apprehend, and
only intend to gain the greatest Advantages to themselves, that the Conjuncture may
offer. Some supposing that King Stanislaus has promised them Caminiec, in case
by their assistance he gains the Crown of Poland, imagine that the Turks flatter
1
Zaim or Zeamet sahibi, a person who is granted land in reward for military service, with
a minimum annual revenue of 20,000 aspers.
* Titnar sahibi, a person who held a Timor, which signified a grant of land for military
service—a kind of Turkish fief—the possession of which entailed the feudetary the obligation
to go mounted to war and to supply soldiers or sailors in numbers proportionate to the revenue
of the appanage. The Timar was the lowest category of military fief, with a maximum revenue
of 19,999
3
aspers.
Boluk sipahisi. Boliik was the second class in the corps of Janissaries, signifying roughly
a ' division ' ; it comprised 101 Chambers, some of which were mounted.
themselves that King Augustus and the Republick may cede them that Place on
condition of their Renewing their Treaties and abandoning King Stanislaus. If
they have not really that aim, or be disappointed in it, what other Pretensions they
may form touching the Polish Ucraina, or whether they may content themselves
with a permission to fortify Chozin, against which the Polish Emb r has protested
as being contrary to an Article in the Treaty of Carlowitz, is uncertain : But there
is no doubt but their intention is to insist on somewhat more then the Polish Emb r>s
offers concerning the K. of Sueden's Passage, and the Reestablishment of the male-
content Poles in their Estates and Honours. Those, who know the Turks, cannot
induce themselves to believe, that they have any [556] Drift to facilitate a Peace
between the K. of Sueden and some of his Enemies by keeping them in Jealousy.
Your Lorp will be better informed then I am, whether His Suedish Ma*v be disposed
to draw any such Advantage from their present Motions, which, as far as we can
perceive, have not been at all concerted with Him. That Prince hath had four fits
of an Ague, which turned into a malignant Feavour : but he is now well recovered.
Most of His attendants have been or are still ill of Agues and Feavours, and some
few of them are dead. Neverthelesse the Turks leave them hitherto without mony
and unprovided of many things necessary. But 'tis now said they will suddenly
supply His Ma*y with a sum of mony and remove Him to Babbadag or Monastyr
both places on this side the Danube. I am . . .
[56a] [Enclosure]
Traite de Paix entre la Porte Ottomane et le Czar de Moscovie
conclu a Adrianople le 16 de Juin 1713.
Article 1. Que le czar de Moscovie retirera ses Troupes dela Pologne dans le
terme de 2 mois a compter du jour dela date de Traite, qu'il ne sera pas permis a
aucunes Troupes Moscovites de rester dans ce Royaume sous quelque pretexte
que ce soit, qu'il ne se melera en aucune maniere des affaires des Polonois. et qu'il
les abandonnera absolument, que cependent si le Czar et ses Troupes vouloient
retourner dela Pomeranie, ils pourront tous passer une fois seulement des Confins
de la Pologne en Moscovie.
2. Quand la sublime Porte voudra faire passer le Roy de Suede dans ses Etats,
Elle le pourra faire par tel endroit qu'elle jugera a propos sans determiner le terns,
ni la route, quand meme Elle auroit Intention de le faire passer par la Pologne, ou
par la Moscovie.
3. Que les Cosaques qui sont au dela du Boristhene avec le Pais et Forteresses
resteront comme auparavant en la possession du Czar de Moscovie, et qu'a l'egard
dela forteresse de Kiovie qui est en deca de ce fleuve, elle demeurera aussi en la
possession du Czar avec [566] les anciennes limites de cette forteresse, suivant qu'elles
furent reglees du terns de Sultan Mehemed, et le Czar se departira entierement du
pais qui reste en de 5a du Boristhene, comme aussi la Presqu'isle de Sechia, qui est
attachee au rivage en de 9a de ce meme fleuve.
4. Comme la forteresse d'Asak est situee a la tete dela frontiere dela Porte et
que pareillment celle de Tcherkes Kirman est situee a la tete dela frontiere du Czar,
pour eviter tout sujet de rupture, on ne pourra batir aucune forteresse depart in
d'autre entre ces deux places.
5. Cet Article est la meme que le 5e du traite conclu le 16 d'Avril 1712 du tems
d'Issouf Pacha, et ne concerne que le restitution que doit faire le Czar de 60 pieces
de Canon de fonte qui etoient dans Asak.
6. Apres le Traite conclu aux frontieres de Moldavie la forteresse de Kaminka
et la nouvelle forteresse qui etoit situee sur l'embouclieure dela Samara furent rasees,
et comme il fut arrete qu'on ne pourroit desormais batir depart ni d'autre des forte-
resses en ces memes endroits, cet Article sera a l'avenir observe.
7. Que les limites seront reglees ou les rivieres de Samara et Orel se joignant
a celle du Boristhene en firant entre ces deux rivieres jusqu'a leur [57a] sources.
Le cote dela Samara demeurera en possession au Czar et ce Prince ne pourra pas non
plus y faire batir de nouvelles forteresses, chateaux ou Palanques.
8. Que les Moscovites et autres qui dependent du Czar ne pourront faire aucun
tort in dommage aux sujets dela frontiere Ottomane, comme d'Asak, dela Crimee
etc. et que s'ils font quelque action contraire au traite de paix, le Czar les fera severe-
ment punir, et de meme la Porte donnera des Ordres au Han dela Crimee, aux Calgas
et autres Sultans etc. a fin qu'ils n'aillent point en grand ou en petit nombre sur les
sujets ni dans les pais du Czar, ils ne pourront non plus leur faire aucun tort ni dom-
mage, ni faire enlever des Esclaves etc.
9. Et que si la Nation Calmonque en exercant des actes d'hostilites fera tort
et dommages aux gens dela Crimee dependant dela Porte, et aux Nogais et Circasse
dependant dela Crimee et autres, les Tartares ne pourront avec ces pretexte des
Calmouques faire aucun tort in dommage aux Moscovites ni aux pais qui dependent
du Czar.
10. Et qu'a l'egard des pretensions des Crimee imposees par la Porte, comme
nous n'avons aucun pouvoir, et que nous ne savons pas presentement [576] l'lntention
du Czar sur cette affaire, on remettra a un autre tems a en parler et a s'accorder aux
gre des deux parties.
11. Le terme de ce present Traite de Paix a ete determine pour 25 ans, et les
Articles ci dessus seront observes depart et d'autre avec soin, pendent ce tems la,
et si avant que le terme soit expire on veut prolonger la paix, on pourra le faire avec
le Consentement des parties. Et apres que le Czar de Moscovie aura ete informe
de ce Traite de paix il envoyera un Ambassadeur a la Porte pour y apporter sa
Ratification et pour y recevoir les Capitulations. Cet Ambassadeur se rendra a la
Porte dans le terme de 90 jours, a conter du jour que le Paix a ete conclue et dela
date du present Traite. Ainsi nous Otages et Plenipotentiaires etc. ce 16 de Juin

1 September 1713
My Lord
I had the honour to write Your Lorp last under the 11 th past. I thought it my
Duty to acquaint Your Lorp as soon as possible of the surprizing Changes, which
have since happened, if any thing could be surprizing under this present Government
and Ministry after all the Managements we have seen before.
King Stanislaus's Expedition hath been very short. After two daies march
from Bender the Seraskier pursuant to an Order under the Gr. Sigr's own hand, as
'tis assured returned with all the Forces, and secured that Prince in the Fortresse.
'Twas always believed that this undertaking was not intended to be carried on any
further then to serve some vain Designs of the Port, but it could scarce be imagined,
that they would make so ridiculous a jest of it, tho' it was so wretchedly contrived
and managed as not be at all proper to answer any Purposes, except that of
separating King Stanislaus and the Malecontent Poles his Adherents from the King
of Sueden. What is given out to colour these Proceedings is, that King Stanislaus
and his Friends had assured-the Port that the Poles in general, and 'tis said the
Crown Gen1 Sieniauski in particular, would declare for him, as soon as they should see
the Port espouse his cause : But that on the contrary the Messenger, whome the
Tartar Han and Seraskier had dispatched to Monsr Sieniausky returned with an
answer, that the whole Body of the Republick considereth King Stanislaus and his
Followers no otherwise then Rebels. That King Augustus is their Lawfull King
and that all the Poles are ready to sacrifice their Lives and Fortunes in his Defence.
'Tis certain [586] that the Polish Emb r soon after these late Declarations in favour
of King Stanislaus, presented a Memorial representing that King Augustus is the true
and Lawfull King of Poland, acknowledged and obeyed by the whole Republick, and
the same who concluded the Treaty of Carlovitz with the Port, after which he com-
plained of many Infractions of the said Treaty, and in particular protested against
the fortifying Choczin, and concluded with a Declaration, that, if the Port would
observe the said Treaty, the King and Republick were likewise desirous on their part
to maintain the Peace but that they were ready to receive the Turks, if they resolved
on war. It is apparent enough, that encouragement hath been too liberally given
the Turks by repeated hopes and assurances, that the Poles in general would declare
for King Stanislaus (either out of Inclination or fear) in case the Turks would appear
with an Army on the Frontiers in his favour. But there is very great reason to
believe, that the Port never gave Credit thereto, and only imagined, that by their
motions they should be able to draw some advantages from King Augustus. How-
ever, the Forces they have sent to the Frontiers are so inconsiderable and so much
unprovided for undertaking any thing of Consequence, besides their marching so
late that as soon as they could have been assembled on the Frontiers of Poland, it
would have been time to retire, that they would rather have begotten Contempt then
fear in the Poles, and the Port having no Intention to begin and prosecute a war, it
was resolved to countermand the Troops time enough to spare the Gr. Sigr the
Expences and them the fatigue of a Campaign, His Highnesse and the Vizir Azem
having already gained one of their principal aims, which was to send the Janissaries
[59a] away to the Frontiers.
The Muscovites were so carefull to keep the late Treaty secret, that I have not
been able to purchase a perfect Copy of it till very lately. Your Lofp will find here
inclosed a Transcript of the Italian Translation, which they annexed to the Treaty
in the Russe Language. I hear they refused to communicate the Preamble of it
to their Friends, pretending, that it was extorted from them by force. The new
Emb r , whome the Czar hath sent with the Ratification, is affirmed to have arrived
lately on the Confines, and is expected about this time at AdrPle with as much Im-
patience by the Turks as by the Muscovite Plenipotentiaries themselves. The Czar
had transmitted them new Full Powers by an Officer, who was addressed to the Dutch
Emb r and gave himself out for an Expresse from Holland but he did not reach
AdrPle till above a month after the Conclusion of the Treaty.
There is no further discourse at present about fortifying Choczin, and the Port
hath already allowed the Polish Emb r more liberty then he enjoyed before.
Soon after the advice of the Czar's having ratified the Treaty, and of the New
Emb r ' s approaching the Frontiers with a Retenue of about .300 Persons, the Vizir
issued out an Imp1 Firman, commanding Monsr Funck the Suedes Envoy, Monsr
Poniatowski and all the Suedes whatever to retire out of Adrianople to Demirdesh,
and return no more to dwell in the City. They have however assigned Monsr Funck a
House at Demirdesh and continued him his former Tahin or allowance for his
subsistence.
The King of Sueden is well recovered of his sicknesse, but is very weak and keeps
his Chamber; [596] several of his Officers are dead of feavours, and many others,
besides his Physician and some of the chief secretaries of the Chancery are very ill,
the place of his abode being very marshy and unwholesome. 'Tis said, that they
will shortly transfer His Ma*y to Salonichi to be thence transported into France ; but
discourses of that nature so uncertain, that one cannot give any credit to them.
Monsr Pfeif a Captain of a Man of war and Brother to the councellors of the Chancery
lately came with a Dispatch from the Govr of Wismar, and is now arrived here,
designing to take the first good Imbarcation for France.
Septr 4 1713
My Lord
I have nothing further to add, except that the New Muscovite Emb r who brought
the Ratification of the Treaty, whereof the Translation is inclosed, made his Entry
into AdrPle the 30th past, and that the Polish Emb r has had an Audience of the Vizir
Azem, and 'tis said will suddenly be admitted to an audience of the Gr. Sigr. There
is no appearance of the Court returning hither. I am . . .
[60a] [Enclosure]
L'Essercito della Fulgida Porta confligendo mortalmente nelle sponde dell' acqua
Pruth con S. Cz. Maesta e suo Esercito, Onde per la di Dio volonta havendo ridotto
S.M. Cz. e il suo Esercito in strettezza, la d ta S. Cz. M. richiese l'aggiustamento e
dalla parte della Fulgida Porta fu accettato, allora quando s'e discorso circa la
specificazione degl' Articoli della buona Pace accio che si consegnasse alia parte
della Fulgida Porta la Fortezza d'Asac come e stata presa di prima colle Terre e
suoi appendici, e che totalmente si demolissero le Fortezze di Taigan e Camenchi,
e la nuova Fortezza che fu alia riva di Samara, e che li Cannoni colle Munizioni
ch'erano in Camenchi si dovessero intieramente consegnar'alla parte della Fulgida
Porta, e ch'in avenir non si dovesse in dtl luoghi fabricar d'ambe le parti Fortezza
e che non dovessero molestarsi mai piu dalla parte di S. Cz. Maesta li Barbashi e
Potcali dipendenti d'ai Polacchi, e que'i Cosacchi dipendenti dalla parte del Han di
Crimea, ma come e stato di prima, ritiri la sua mano da quelle parti, e in avenir,
fuora d ei Mercanti che vanno e vengano colla Mercanzia per terra al custodito
Dominio della Fulgida Porta, che non dovesse essistere dalla parte di S. Cz. Maesta
alcun in figura d' Ambasciatore, e cosi presentemente come nel trascorso quanti
Musulmanni sono fatti Schiavi si restituissero alia parte della Fulgida Porta. Ch'il
Re di Suezia ricorso sotto l'ala benigna della Fulgida Porta, per l'avenir non si debba
da parte di S.M.Cza in alcuna forma impedir' e molestar nell' andata sua con sicurezza
e salvamento verso'l proprio paese; e se fra loro si acconsentisse e s'aggiustasse,
facessero la Pace. Ond'essendo stati conchiusi gl'articoli della Pace soprascritti,
la resa della Fortezza d'Asac alia parte della Fulgida Porta e la demolizione di Taigan.
contra gl'Articoli della Pace fu prolongata e ritardata, oltre di cio alcuni degl'Articoli
del Trattato non essendosi adempiti, e alcune Promesse e Condizioni non osservatesi
dalla parte di S.Cz.M. percio nell' anno 1712 di nuovofu stimata necessaria la Guerra.
Ed havendo per l'adietro Noi Baron Pietro Sciaffirov Vice-Cancelliere, e il Generate
Maggior Conte Michaele Sceremetov, e gia stati Ostaggi Plenipotentiari di S.M.Cza.
in sin'al adempimento degl'Articoli della Pace fatta da Noi la Richiesta a'i Eccmt
Signori Ambasciatori dTnghilterra e d'Olanda essistenti alia Fulgida Porta accio
que'i Signori Ambasciatori si fraponessero in mezzo, e trattandosi l'affare della buona
Pace, venne l'auviso della resa della Fortezza d'Asac alia Fulgida Porta dalla parte
di S.Cz.M. e della demolizione di Taigan, s'e discorso al fine che si levassero dalla
parte di S.Cz.M. gl'accidenti contrarii alia [606] confirmazione della Pace e nell'anno
1712 d'Aprile 5to giorno in tempo di Iusuph Pascia, fu supremo Vizire, doppo ch'un
altra volta fii terminato l'affare della Pace, nelle scritture ch' allora si contra-
cambiarono d'ambe le parti e sin'al presente custodite nella forma scritta e segnata,
si conchiusero sopra sette Punti li Patti della Pace, nel primo di que'i sette Punti
fu specificato e notato che S.Cz.M. dalla data della scrittura in quel tempo in sin al
termine di 30 giorno dovesse ritirar le sue Truppe ch'erano da questa parte in Polonia,
e da quella parte della medma in termine di 3 mesi e ch'in Polonia non restasse alcuno
delle Truppe di S.Cz.M. e che non s'ingerisse negl' affari de' Polacchi, e sotto alcun
pretesto di qua avanti non mandasse le sue Truppe in Polonia, ma che totalamente
ritirasse la mano dalla medma. Nulla di meno non solamente il Han di Crimea,
ma ancora '1 Commandante di Bender e la gente della Frontiere haveranno informato
la Fulgida Porta che S.Sz.M. non ha osservato questo Patto e non ha fatto uscir dalla
Polonia le sue Truppe in tempo soprascritto. Similmente per gl' avisi degl' huomini
fedeli che vanno e vengano alia Fulgida Porta s'e saputo qualmte in Polonia vi erano-
in diversi luoghi a Compagnie le Truppe di S.Cz. Maesta Oltre di cio fu spedita
in Polonia dalla parte della Fulgida Porta il Cavallerizzo Achmet Bey per l'lnforma-
zione di tal Interesse, quale andato e tomato che fu, ha raccontato che li Primati
di Polania hanno detto e parlato con lui faccia a faccia che sicuramente nella rned™*
in diverse parti vi sono delle Truppe di S.Cz.M. e massime che la dto. S.Cz.M. fra
1 termine soprascritto colle sue Truppe fosse passato per Polonia verso la Pomerania
Suezzese, e in tempo del suo ritorno essendo assolutamente necessario passar per
Polonia, qual cosa essendo chiaro e evidente passo contro la Pace, alia Fulgida Porta
di nuovo si fecero gl'apparecchi della Guerra, e si venne in Adrianopoli con Inten-
zione di Cambattimento e essendo risolta la mossa per la Primavera, Noi habbiamo
mandato alia Fulgida Porta diverse volte Memoriali, pregando 1' Escusazione per il
successo contrario alia Promessa della Pace, come pur la licenza per la Conferanza,
accio si confermino e stabiliscano come si deve gl' Articoli della Pace, per cio per pieta
e compassione verso '1 Popolo di Dio, la Fulgida Porta fece condurre Noi Ostaggi
da Constantinopoli in Adrianopoli e trattando l'affare della Pace, si fece fondamento
a qualche Articolo e certi Patti di quella Pace fatta peravanti nelle sponde di Pruth,
restando nel loro Tenor [61a] alcuni Punti che vi erano nella Scrittura di Iusuph
Pascia, pero que'i che non occorrevano ad esser Scambiati, e certi punti aggiunti
e certi annullati e con prove messi in buona forma conchiudendo quatro punti di
nuouvo, che tutti assieme conchiusi si numerano per undeci punti e patti d' Amicizia,
che qui sotto si noteranno.
jmo. Sua Czarea Maesta fara uscir dalla Polonia le sue Truppe in termine di
due Mesi dalla Signatura di quest' Instrumento, e non resti in Polonia alcune delle
Truppe di S.Cz.M. con dire che si siano messi fuori del suo servizio avanti 6 doppo la
Signatura di quest' Instrumento, e che non sono sue Truppe, e sotto questi pretesti
e scuse non vi restino, ma debba farle uscir dalla Polonia in termine di due mesi,
e che non debba ingerirsi nel Governo degl' Affari de'Polacchi, e in avenir sotto qual
si sia pretesto non rimandi le sue Truppe in Polonia, ma'ritiri la mano totalmente
da quella, e per voler anche prestar Ajuto alia Pomerania non debba passar dalla
Polonia e dalle Terre dipendenti da quella. E volendo S.Cz.M. e le sue Truppe
tornarsene dalla Pomerania passino tutti almeno una volta verso Moscovia dal
Confine di quella parte di Polonia, e non passi piu dalla Polonia per Ppmerania,
ma se '1 Re di Suezia 6 pur le sue Truppe entrassero in Polonia, e commovessero li
Polacchi contro li Moscoviti, e li medemi si congiungessero col Re di Suezia e in
questa maniera redendorsi palese la cattiva Intenzione de'i Nemici per la Guerra,
che quella volta sia lecito alle Truppe di S.Cz.M. d'entrar nella Polonia e usar hostilita
verso li suoi Nemici, e che cio la Fulgida Porta non attribuisca alia Rottura della
Pace, e per la sudta causa venendo a seguir Battaglia tra la Maesta Czarea e il Re
di Suezia nella Polonia, e poi doppo la Battaglia sortisse dalla medma la Maesta
Suezzese colle sue Truppe e si ritirasse, S.M. Czarea ancora non possa trattenersi
nella Polonia, ma con tutte le sue Truppe si ritiri, e sotto nissun pretesto vi restino
delle Truppe di S.M. Czarea in Polonia. Ed il Re di. Suezia passando per Polonia
verso'l suo Paese con amicizia e con ajuto della Fulgida Porta sotto tal pretesto
S. Czarea M. overo le sue Truppe non debbano entrar in Polonia.
2d0> La Fulgida Porta quando vorra mandar il Re di Suezia al suo Paese,
lo mandi per quella via che vuole, mat0 che non sia prescritto il termine ne via, e se
la Fulgida Porta volesse mandar il d - Re per li paesi di Moscovia, sin ch' arrivi
al suo Paese, il medmo le sue Truppe e le Truppe che col dto- saranno destinate dalla
[616] Fulgida Porta, non possino far alcun danno ne pregiudizio al Dominio di S.
Cz. M. e a'i sudditi di essa apertamente ne occultamente similimente al Re di
Suezia nelT andar sin ch'arrivi al suo Paese, al detto, alle sue Truppe, e a quelle
che con lui dalla Fulgida Porta saranno assegnate, da S. Cz. M. e suoi dipendenti
apertamente ne occultamente verun danno ne pregiudizio sia recato, ma sane e
salve possino andar, e doppo l'arrivo del sudt0- Re al suo Paese, alle Truppe della
F. Porta nel loro ritorno non sia fatto apertamente ne occultamente alcun danno
ne pregiudizio d'ai Moscoviti e dipendenti di S. Czarea M. ma sane e salve ritornino.
3 mo - Li Cosacchi c'oi loro Paesi e Fortezze, che si ritrovano da quella parte
dell'acqua di Boristhene, essendo in possesso di S. Cz. M. restino di nuovo sotto'l
di lui possesso come prima, e la Fortezza di Chiovia, che si ritrova da questa parte
della dta> acqua colle Palanche e col confine antico della Fortezza di Chiovia in.con-
formita furono fatti in tempo di Sultan Mehmed gia defunto, debbano esser sotto
1 possesso di dta- S. Cz.M. da tutto poi il restante da questa parte del Boristhene
S. Cz. M. debba tirar la mano, e dalla Penisola di Seccia, che si trova attaccata
da questa parte al med mo flume ; E li Cosacchi che restano a S.Cz.M. apertamente
ne occultamente possino danneggiar gl'Habitanti di Crimea, come anco gl'Habitanti
delle Provincie Musulmanne dipendenti della Fulgida Porta, ne contro la Pace, fargli
alcun danno ne pregiudizio, e se faranno passi contro la Pace, S.M.Cz. non trovi
scuse con dire che non sono Moscoviti ma Cosacchi, ma li castighi e li proibisca di
non far simili Esorbitanze. Similmente anche la Nazione Tartara e li Cosacchi,
che sono dalla parte della Fulgida Porta non possino recar alcun danno ne pregiudizio
contro la Pace, tanto a'i Moscoviti come a'i Cosacchi che restano a S.Cz.M. ma
se faranno alcun passo contro la Pace, dalla Fulgida Porta siano castigati.
4°- Essendo situata'la Fortezza d'Asac al Confine della Frontiera della Fulgida
Porta, e similmente quella di Cercaschi nel Confine della Frontiera di S.Cz.M. quali
sono Piazze di Frontiera, e fra queste due Piazze il fabricar di nuovo qualche Fortezza
potendo far nascer e caggionar delle Turbolenze e Imbrogli, che ne daU'una ne
dall'altra parte possino fabricar Fortezze tra le sudte- Piazze, e essendo stato pattuito
nell' Instrumento di Iusuph Pascia, ch'in tempo di quatro mesi si debbano demolir
le Fortezze e Fabriche in forma di Fortezze fatte per l'adietro sopra le Terre della
Fortezza di Ceroaschi fra la dta- e quella d' Asac, quale fii fabricata per metter le
Munizioni [62a] in tempo della resa d'Asac alia Fulgida Porta e demolizione di
Taiganrog, qual Batto se sin al presente non e stato per appieno eseguito, si debba
eseguir pienamente senza dilazione. Ma la Fortezza d'Asac mentre fu nel possesso
di S.Cz.M. dirimpetto alia dta- Fortezza sulla Riva del fiume Tanai fu fabricata
una Fortificatione da S.Cz.M. e nel tempo che fu resa la dta- Fortezza d'Asac alia
Fulgida Porta, la sopraccennata Fortificazione fu demolita, e non essendovi altra
separazione tra Asac e la dta- rouinata Fortificazione se non il fiume Tanai, e essendo
la dta- Fortificazione appartenente alle Fortificazioni. d'Asac, se la Fulgida Porta
volesse sopra 1 demolito luogo fabricar qualche Fortezza, la possa fabricare.
5to- Essendo registrato nell' Instrumento conchiuso della Pace che la Fortezza
d'Asac sia resa nella forma ch'e stata presa per l'adietro colle sue Terre e altre dipen-
denze, laquale Fortezza nel tempo che fu espugnata da S.Cz.M. vi erano dentro
60 pezzi di Cannoni di Bronzo, ma dta- Fortezza essendo questa volta consegnata
alia Fulgida Porta, non furono lasciati li d*1- Cannoni di Bronzo nella sud ta . For-
tezza, ma nel loro luogo si lasciarono Cannoni di Ferro, e per far venir in luce li
sudu.. Cannoni per restituirli alia Fulgida Porta con tutta diligenza si pigliara un
esatta Informazione e quelli che si troveranno in essere senza renitenza saranno
restituiti da S. Cz. M. alia Fulgida Porta, e per quelli, che non si trovano in Essere,
si dara un prezzo equivalente alia medma Fulgida Porta, e doppo che saranno
restituiti 6 li Cannoni in spezie, 6 pur il loro prezzo, li Cannoni di ferro resi in luogo
di que'i di Bronzo, saranno restituiti a S. Cz. Maesta.
6to- Doppo '1 Trattato di Pace conchiuso n'ei Confini di Moldavia, furono
demolite la Fortezza di Caminchi e la nuova Fortezza situata sulle Bocche di Samara,
fii accordato, che per l'avenir non si possa fabricar d'ambadue le parti su'l dt0 luogo
Fortezza, cosi per l'avenir sara osservato quest'Articolo, senza che si possa fabricar
d'ambedue le parti sulli d41- luoghi nuova Fortezza.
ymo. JI Confine s'habbia da tagliar dal luogo dove si mescolano nelT acqua di
Boristhene le acque di Samara e Erel giusto per mezzo in sin all' Origine delle sopra-
dette acque. La parte di Samara sia sotto 1 possesso della Fulgida Porta, e in que'i
luoghi dalla parte della Fulgida Porta non si possa fabricar Fortezza, Castello 6
Palancha, e la parte d'Erel debba esser sotto '1 possesso di S.Cz.M. in que'i luoghi
parimente dalla parte di S.Cz.M. non si debba fabricare [62b] di nuovo Fortezza,
Castello 6 Palanche, ed essendo peravanti scritto ne'i Trattari della Pace conchiusa
alle sponde dell'acqua di Pruth tra la Fulgida Porta e S.Cz.M. che la Fortezza d'Asac
si debba consegnar alia parte della Fulgida Porta, come fu presa per avanti colle
sue Terre e altri appendici; dall' Origine delle sopradette acque Samara e Erel
in sin al Tanai e Asac, le Terre che sono fra mezzo si limitino in quella conformita,
come fu in tempo che la Fulgida Porta possedeva prima ch'il dt0- Asac entrasse
nelle mani di di S.Cz.M. e restino a quella parte dalla quale ab antico sono state
possedute secondo l'antica forma, con tutto cio in que'i luoghi se vi sono Fortezze
6 Palanche restino nel possesso come prima di quello che presentemente le possiede,
e li luoghi vicini di Mius rouinati, restino come sono rouinati.
8to- Li Mosvoviti Cosacchi e altri dipendenti da S.Cz.M. non faccino oltraggi
e Eccessi di sorte alcuna a'i sudditi del Confine Ottomanno, come sono Asac, Crimea
e altri, e non piglino schiavi e non portino via gl'animali, ne rechino danni e Oltraggi
ad alcuno publicamente 6 secretamente ma li d41- siano impediti da ogni tal Oltraggio
e insolenze fortemente e succedendo qualche loro Azzione contro li Patti della
buona Pace, si debbano fortemente castigar e publicamente. E cosi anche dalla
parte della Fulgida Porta si diano Ordini a'i Hani di Crimea, a'i Calgai, Nuradini
e altri Sultani, e alia gente Tartara, a'i Commandanti e Giudici de'i Confini, accio
che anche da loro non si vada ne con poco ne con molto Esercito a'i sudditi e ne'i
paesi di S.Cz.M. e non faccino Oltraggi e Eccessi, non piglino Schiavi, non portino
via li loro Animali, e non li rechino danni ne pregiudizii ne publicamente ne secreta-
mente e non li molestino in alcuna forma, e quando si venisse in cognizione essersi
ritrovati tali in una Azzione contraria alia buona Pace, non si debbano protegger,
ma castigar conforme il loro delitto in virtu della giusta Giustizia, e tutto quello
che d'ambe le parti verra ad esser depredato si facci ritrovar e render a'i suoi Padroni,
e succedendo d'ambe le parti qualche lite per tali Eccessi, quella lite debbano
guardar giustamente li Hani di Crimea e i Sultani, che sono Seraschieri e i Com-
mandanti e Giudici de'i Confini d'ambe le parti facendosi laretta Giustizia e
osservandosi d'ambe le parti li Patti della buona Pace, s'impediscano tali Inonvenienze.
Le poi vi succedessero affari che li Commandanti e li Giudici de'i [63a] Confini d'ambe
le parti non potessero decidere, s'appellino alia Fulgida Porta e tali liti si debbano
guardar al possibile presto, non trascurandosi ne prolongandosi la decisione.
9°- E se la Nazione Calmucca mostrando hostilita fara danni e pregiudizii
alia gente di Crimea dipendente dalla Fulgida Porta, e a'i Nogai, e Cerchessi dipendenti
dalla Crimea; fra tali Calmucchi non si debba trovar alcun Moscovita ne meno
dipendente di Moscovia. Parimente li Crimesi e altra gente Tartara con la scusa
de'i Calmucchi nn debbano recar danni ne pregiudizii a'i Moscoviti e a'i Paesir
Moscoviti, e succeodendo tali danni e pregiudizii fra ambe le parti si dovranno castiga
e fortemente frenar tali cattivi huomini e si debba restituir d'ambe le parti la robba
e animali depredati.
lomo. £ p e r 1'affare della domanda circa li Crimesi proposto dalla parte della
Fulgida Porta, non havendo Noi la Plenipotenza e presentemente non sapendo
l'lntenzione di S.Cz.M. Nostro Clemmo. Signore e Padrone sopra quest' affare, si
debbe in altro tempo discorrer e accordar col consenso d'ambe le parti.
I]:mo. D a ila data di quest' Instrumento successivamente si assegno il termine
di questa Pace per anni 25, e in questo tempo di Pace e termire della Coltivazione
della detta si procurera d'ambidue le parti con tutta la diligenza d'osservar le Con-
venzioni della Pace qui sopra prolissamente notate; e avanti che spiri il sudt0- termine,
se si vorra prolongar la Pace col consenso d'ambe le parti si possa prolongar, e doppo
che sara notificato a S.Cz.M. 1' accordo fatto di questa buona Pace, e che dta- S.Cz.M.
colle sue Lettere notifichera la Ratificazione assegnando da parte sua un Ambre- degno
di Stima per ricevar le Capitolazioni da parte della Fulgida Porta. E dal giorno che
si termino questa buona Pace, cio e dal Anno 1713, giorno 13 di Giugno sin al termine
di 90 giorni debba venir il suo Ambre- e arrivar alia Fulgida Porta, e venuto che sara
Noi assieme con lui haveremo da ricevar le Capni- Imp11- e fuori degl' Articoli notificati
in quest' Instrumento se si vorra d'ambe le parti aggiunger alcuni Articoli vantaggiosi
e profitevoli ad ambe le parti, osservando le Convenzioni della buona Amicizia,
sincerita e accordi, si conferira col Ambre- che ha da venir da parte di S.Cz.M. e
sia lecito d'aggiungerli nelle Capitalazioni, e non accordandosi in quel tempo alcun
-nuovo Articolo nella forma sopradta- che questo presente accordato Instrumento del
[636] Trattato sia Confirmato e ratificato dalla Fulgida Porta. Onde sopra questi
undeci Punti Patti e accordi Noi soprad*1- in virtu della Nostra Plenipotenza havendo
dato alia parte della Fulgida Porta quest' Instrumento Autentico sigillato a sottoscritto
col Nostro pugno scritto in lingua Russiana e poi tradotto da Noi in lingua Italiana ;
percio ancora Noi parimente habbiamo ricevuto dalla Fulgida Porta l'lnstrumento
in Turco sigillato e sottoscritto col proprio pugno del IUm0 e Excellmo- supremo Vezire
Ali Pascia in virtu della sua assoluta Luogotenenza. Pervenuto dunque che sara
dalla parte di S. Czarea Maesta quel Ambre- che deve esser assegnato, e osservati che
saranno li Patti della buona Pace e che ci saranno date le Capitnl- e adempti li Capitoli,
come pur quando terminererno il Nostro Ministerio, all' hora si debba permetter
e dare la Licenza dalla parte della Fulgida Porta tanto a Noi sopraccennati quant'
al Ambre- che dovra venir, acci6 possiamo andar verso la parte di S. Czarea Maesta
Nostro Clemmo- Padrone.
15 September 1713
My Lord
I had thethhonour to write YourrsL6"fp under the I st and 4 th instant.
On the 8 the Muscovite Emb were conducted to an Audience of the Gr. Sig*,
in which they delivered the Czar's Letter of Ratification of the late Treaty. They
made a very pompous shew, being preceded by their Gentlemen of the Horse with
15 Lead Horses sumptuously furnished, and 50 Footmen in very rich Liveries.
The three EmbrB went abreast,r the Baron Shaffiroff in the middle, Monsr Szeremetoff
on his right and the new Emb Jeschovitz on his left hand, all set off with abundance
of Jewells, and they were followed by a great number of Officers and Gentlemen.
They are not to receive the Capitulation from the Gr. Sigr, 'till other Conferences
have been held with them, in which the .Vizir, who hath an earnest desire to finish
all matters with them, hopes to adjust the Tartar Han's Pretension and some other
points of lesse consequence, which arer said to remain behind, but are not known to me.r
'Tis said that the Polish Emb will be admitted to audience of the Gr. Sig
before the Bairam, which comes about 3 weeks hence, and 'tis assured that the Port
hath given orders to the Tartar Han and Seraskier of Bender to suffer no Hostilities
to be committed against Poland. I am informed however underhand, that the
Gr. Sigr will endeavour to get King Stanislaus restored to his Estate and Dignity of
Palatine of Posnania.
There is no Fortification yet begun at [646] Choczin, and 'tis doubted whether the
Turks will ever undertake it, since 'tis given out that the Sultan will religiously
observe the Treaty concluded with the Poles at Carlovitz, one Article whereof is
expresse against raising any new Fortifications on the Frontiers.
Whatever is now desired by the King of Sueden, his Ministers or Officers is cer-
tainly refused. When the Suedish Druggerman asked for a Passeport for Col. Basse-
vitz to return into Germany, the Vizir's Kehayah told him, that when the King would
depart, they would give a Passeport for him and all his Attendants together. They
have banished a German Renegade, who served the Suedes in quality of Interpreter,
and I hear they have forbidden another Suedish Druggerman to appear any more
at the Port.
'Tis now written from AdrPle by several Great Men, that the Gr. Sigr will return
hither soon after Bairam : but there is more probability of his remaining at
Adrianople. I am . . .
63. Sutton to Bolingbroke.1
20 October 1713
My Lord
Having now the fortune of being under Your Lorp's Province and Direction,
I humbly presume to beg the honour of Your Protection and Your acceptance of the
1
Lord Bolingbroke replaced Lord Dartmouth as Secretary of State in August 1713.
igo DESPATCHES OF SIR ROBERT SUTTON
best Informations I am able to give You of what passes in these parts, And I take
leave to assure Your Lorp that, as no man can receive the favour of Your Commands
with more respect, so no one will obey them with more pleasure and exactnesse then
myself.
The Turks have notr syet delivered the Muscovite Embrs the Capitulation, which is
instead of the Gr. Sig ' Ratification of the late Treaty of Peace, neither will they
consent to add any new Articles at the request and in favour of the Muscovites:
But the Tartar Han's Pretension of the ancient Pension, which was remitted to be
treated at another time, and is the only difficulty, that suspended the Dispatch of the
Capitulation, is esteemed to be already given over by the Port. The Vizir indeed,
to save appearances with the Han, has of late superficially pressed the Embrs to
agree thereto : but as they have constantly declared the impossibility of the Czar's
submitting to be Tributary to the Tartars, He hath lately by a Letter acquainted the
Han of the fruitlessnesse of his Endeavours to procure his satisfaction in that particu-
lar, and given him to understand that the Ministers of the Port do not judg it worth
the while to renew the War upon that account, and therefore desire his Opinion there
upon, which in their language amounts to an intimation that He is to desist from it.
'Tis however believed that the Czar will not neglect to cultivate the Han with Presents,
tho' he is resolved they shall not be Obligation, but voluntary.
The Baron Schaphiroff is ashamed of the Dishonourable Language of the late
Treaty, and has industriously endeavoured to keep the Preamble from the knowledg
of the world, and [66&] has declared on certain occasions that He would never have
yielded to so hard terms, if he had not well known his Master's Resolutions to
have Peace in this Conjuncture with the Port at any price. The Port hath already
appointed Commissaries for making out the Limits, and the Muscovite Embrs have
signed an act obliging themselves to remain at the Port 'till they be wholly regulated.
The Poles Affairs are likewise on as good a foot, as they could desire, expecting
the Fortification of Choczin which they connive at for the present, tho' the Palatin
of Mazuria has protested lately against it, as being contrary to the Treaty of Carlovitz.
The sense of the ill effect of his former facility, and the ridiculous Farce of the Port's
late Conduct and weaknesse in their motions upon the Frontiers, have inspired him
with more firmnesse. 'Tis certain that the Turks have entertained hopes of frighting
the Poles into a Cession of Caminiec, in default whereof they resolved to fortify
Choczin : They have likewise used all their arts for gaining a part of the Polish Ucraina,
to save the honour and appearances of the Gr. Sigr<s motions, under pretence of
settling there those Cossacs, rwho are retired under the Protection and Obedience
of the Port. The Polish Emb having absolutely rejected that Demand, the Vizir by
way of temperament proposed to him to oblige himself to write to the King and
Republick about it, which he also flatly refused, saying that, knowing beforehand
it would be to no purpose, he would not charge himself with such a Commission;
and adding that if the Port would punctually observe the Treaty of Carlovitz, the
King and Republick of Poland were resolved to live in good friendship and Cor-
respondence with it; otherwise the Gr. Sigr might take his own course and measures,
and they were prepared for all Events. This is his present Language to them. 'Tis
little doubted but the Turks will rest satisfied with this answer, being universally
averse to a war, and in a more [67a] particular manner the present Vizir, who hitherto
entirely possesses the favour and confidence of his Master. Their chief application
is to increase His Highnesse's Revenues, and take away the Privilege of the Frank
Nations, without any regard to Capitulations or Justice, but with this Distinction that
they shew the greatest contempt of and spite against the French. The Vizir being
the Gr. Sigr's Son in Law is so excessively conceited and proud, that he has not
hitherto received our usual Presents, nor vouchedsafe to admit any of our Druggermen
into his presence, nor condescended to return any answer to our Letters, which his
Predecessors used to do with reasonable Civility.
The Asiatick Militia has received leave to return home. That of Rumelia, with
the Janissaries comprizing those of Egypt, hath orders to winter at Chocin, whither
the Chiaoux Bashi hath been lately dispatched with 2000 Purses of mony for the
payment of the Soldiery, and for building an Arsenal, Magazins, Bagnos and Barraques
for the Troops. Apti Pashaw remains Seraskier at Chocin and Cerke Osman Pashaw
at Bender, where the Plague has carried off a great part of the Suedes and Poles, who
were left there.
I am informed that the Vizir lately by a Capigi Bashi notified to the King of
Sueden, that a Treaty of Peace is concluded with the Czar, and another upon the
Point of being signed with the Poles. That the Port esteemed it time that His
Majesty should think of returning home, in order to which they would give him all
convenient Assistance and Succour, having agreed with the Poles about his Passage
with a Convoy of 6000 men. That he might however passe through the Emperour's
Countries, if he liked it better. 'Tis said that Prince answered, that he did not oppose
their Treaties with the Muscovites and Poles, but had a right to insist upon the
performance of their promises to Him. That neverthelesse He is their Prisoner,
and must yield to such measures, as they think expedient to take in that respect, or
some thing to that effect. 'Tis said they have since acquainted Him, that, if it do not
suit with his [676] Convenience to return this winter, the place of his present abode
being very unwholesome and incommodious, they are willing He should retire to any
Place near the Danube, and proposed Monaster to Him as the most proper, whither
'tis generally supposed His Ma*y will remove before winter.
\r T A
My Lord
While this Letter lay waiting for a Conveyance I have received advice from
AdrPle That on the 22d current there was an Extraordry Great Council held, in which
the Vizir intimated to the Members, that the Czar had ratified and executed the
Treaty lately concluded between Him and the Port. I am informed it was resolved
to deliver the Gr. Sigr>s Ratification to the new Muscovite Emb r
and give him Leave
to return with it to the Czar his Master, and that Messrs Schaphiroff, Scheremetoff and
Tolstoy shall be detained here, as I have acquainted Your Lorp above, untill the
Limits be settled and other incident matters adjusted. The Vizir also proposed
whether it were lemore adviseable for the Court to remain this winter at Adri>le or
return to ConstP , whereupon it was the universal advice to remove speedily hither,
and accordingly Orders were sent to the Ogiack of the Janissaries to be ready to
march on 30th instant. I have the honour to be with all imaginable respect . . .
64. Sutton to Bolingbroke.
18 December 1713
My Lord
I am but very lately honoured with Your LordP'8 Letter of the 18th August last,
which by a very common mistake of the Post-Masters was put into the wrong Mail,
and its' entry into Italy was opened and perfumed, and had afterwards a very slow
passage by way of Leghorn and Smyrna. Whenever You are pleased to favour me
with any further Commands I humbly desire that they may be addressed to Her
Majesty's Secretary at Vienna to prevent the like inconveniences. Upon the first
advice of Your Lofdp's removal to the southern Province, I had the honour to
acquaint you of what had passed of late at the Port, as far as I could learn, in my
letter of the 26th October, Copy whereof I beg leave to inclose,1 and to intreat anew
the honour of Your Lofdp's Protection, as well as of your own particular Orders, if
I can be so happy as to be able to do you any pleasure in these parts ; for your
Lord? will permit me to assure you with great truth, that I shall rejoyce at nothing
more then an opportunity of shewing the singular Esteem and respect I bear your
person and great merit, and the ambition [686] I have to deserve your good opinion
and favour.
I herewith transmit Your LordP a Copy of the Italian Translation of the Gr. Sigr'8
Ratification of the last Treaty with Muscovy, which was dispatched by an Officer,
and not sent by the Emb r who brought the Czar's ratification; for I was wrong
informed from Adrianople that the Port would give him leave to return to his Master
with it. Your Lordship will remark in the ratification, that it is specified as a
condition of the observance of the Treaty on the part of the Port, that the Czar shall
come to an agreement with the Tartars touching their pretension of the Pension
which was formerly paid them annually and abolished by the Treaty concluded at
Constantple the year following the Congresse at Carlovitz, where the Muscovite
Emb r only signed an Armistice for two years, on the Restitution of wch Pension
the Port in vain insisted before the conclusion of this last Treaty. I cannot be
positive, but by all the Information I can procure I find no grounds to believe
that there is any clear Understanding underhand between the Port and the Muscovite
Emb rs about that point. But as the Gr. Sigr imagines, that he exposes himself to
no risque by inserting that Clause, so I do not perceive that the Muscovites [69a]
lay much stresse upon it, either out of a presumption that the Port is not much
disposed to renew the Quarrell on that accompt, or that they shall easily find means
to content the Tartars 'till the Czar be upon more even terms with them, and in a
condition to apprehend nothing on this side. In the mean time, as I have already
acquainted Your LordP, the Vizir before the delivery of the Gr. Sigr's Ratification,
wch the Emb rs received at a solemn audience of His Highnesse, obliged them to sign
an Act of promise to remain at the Port untill the Limits be marked out, for w*1
purpose Commissaries have been appointed on the part of the Port; but they will
not depart for the Frontiers 'till next April or May, the Execution of their Commission
1
Fo. 85a.
being impracticable in those parts before the Winter be over. Since the delivery of
the Ratification the Embrs have been treated as well as they ever were before, tho'
the whole series of the Port's carriage towards the Czar be very contemptuous and
insolent.
On the 26th past, the Gr. Sigr made his Entry into ConstaKtple, w011 would have
been very magnificent, if the dirtinesse of the roads and the rainy weather had not
much lessened the pomp.
The Polish Embr is kept under some Restraint, and I don't hear that he hath
either sent or received [696] any Compliments since his arrival, or that the Port hath
spoken to him about businesse. Some time before the Gr. Sigr left Adrianople, it
was signified to King Stanislaus and the Poles at Bender, that they should have
liberty to depart, which was supposedr to proceed from a near prospect of coming
to a conclusion with the Polish Emb . But before his Highnesse's removal, new
directions were given them to remain at Bender, and Monsr Crispin that Prince's
Envoy was desired to follow the Court hither.
The Turks have raised a wretched Fortresse at Choczin in the form of a Hexagone,
which they esteem to be in a tollerable condition of defence. As for their Pretension
of a Part of the Polish Ucraina, the Vizir proposed to the Palatine of Mazuria to
engage himself to use his Endeavours to procure the Port satisfaction in that point
after his return home, which he refused, insisting on the strict observance of the
Treaty of Carlovitz, for maintaining which the Imperial Minister passes his good
Offices.
Before the Gr. Sigr left Adrianople, the Vizir intimated to the King of Sueden,
that he might," if he pleased, remove to Dymoticha, which his Majesty did some daies
after. But I am told, that there passed no discourse on that occasion [70a] relating
to his affairs, or his return home ; neither hath his allowance been augmented, tho' it
is not sufficient for his subsistence.
Since the retirement of that Prince's Ministers from Adrianople by the Vizir's
Order, His Majesty hath no Minister residing at the Port, neitherr is it believed, that
if He had a mind to send one, he would be admitted. Mons Funck his former
Envoy was left sick at Demirdesh, where he died of a feavour,1 and Monsr Poniatowski
is with his Majesty at Dymoticha, so that there appears no manner of intercourse
between the Court of Sueden and the Port.
Monsr de Fabrice Envoy from the Duke Administrator of Holstein is come
hither: but I do not find that he has any thing to manage here for the King of
Sueden either in Publick or in private. His Brother is the Elector of Hannover's
Envoy to King Augustus, and I hear that by their means there is a Negotiation on foot
between that Prince and the King of Sueden, and that if it succeeds, His Suedish
Majesty will retire next spring or summer by way of Poland.
I am told that the French Embr has written to the Court of Sueden by the
Marquis de Torcy's Order, that in case that Prince will consent to [706] acknowledg
King Augustus, which could not be avoided by reason of Her Majesty the Queen's
insisting positively thereon, his Master would procure him as reasonable and good a
Peace as He himself could desire. One of our Merchants, who has many concerns
1
13 November 1713.
with the Suedes, pretends to have had his intelligence from the Emb r ' s own mouth,
and therefore I esteemed it requisite to acquaint your Lordship thereof, who can
best judg of the truth and grounds of it, and what reflection it may deserve.
Two daies before the Gr. Sigr>s arrival, the Head of Isuf Pashaw the late Prime
Vizir was brought to the Camp, and his Estate as well as that of the late Vizir Baltagi
Mehmet Pashaw hath been since seized and confiscated.
The continual application of the Sultan and his first Minister is to fill His High-
nesse's Coffers and increase his Revenues, for which purpose they retrench Expences,
lessen the Appointments and Profits of the Kislar-Aga, Capitan Pashaw, Janissar Aga,
Valide Kehayasi and all other Officers in general, and raise the Farms of the Tribute
and Customes, imposing them by force upon rich men, and favouring their Demands
on all occasions to the suppression of the antient Priviledges of the Frank Nations,
tho' in [71a] matters of little import to them, and without almost any regard to Our
Capitulations. In all these particulars they have already proceeded to a Degree
never before known in this Country even in times of the greatest Streights, and it is
not easy to foresee where the matter will end. But they have already raised so
general a discontent, that most people imagine the Vizir's ruine is not far off. I
am . . .
[75a] [Enclosure]
Trattato di Pace conchiusasi tra le Maesta
Czarea e Sultanea alii cinque di Giugno
dell' anno M.D.C.C.XIII.
Coll' eviterna potenza e ineshausti favori dell' Incorrottibile e incomparabile
Signore dell' Universo e Donatore della Grazie, la di cui essenza e monda d'ogni
mutazione, il Signor Iddio, e coll' abondanza de' supr' Eminenti Miracoli del Mahomet
Mustafa sole della Sfera profetica e stella del zodiaco d'Aussileo, il primate delle
Compagnia de'i Profeti cui imita la Serie degli immaculati e innocenti, 1' omamento
di due Mondi (la salute di Dio sia sopra di lui) e colla Compagnia d'ei puri spiriti
d'ei eletti suoi Amici, e retti successori, d'ei quali Iddio Ognipotente sia contento,
e di tutti gli Santi che l'approssimarono al retto camino ; Io Sultano figlio di Sultano
e Imperatore figlio d'Imperatore, Sultano Vincitore. Achmet Han, figlio di Sultan
Mehmet Hano, figlio di Sultan Ibrahim Hano, quale sono delli piu eccellenti Paesi
e luoghi, e delle piu honorate Citta e Caselli, si come e l'honorata Mecca, e la luida
Medina e Gierusalamme lequali riverisce l'Universo e sono l'Azylo di tutte le Tribu,
signore e servitore, Azylo della giustizzia e Dominante d'ei Dominanti, vigorificante
la Giustizia e misericordia, Imperatore delle [756] tre Magne Citta, lequali sono
Constantinopoli, Adrianopoli e Brussia e di Damasco Odorifera a guisa del Paradiso,
e di Babilonia Piazza di Sicurezza e dell' Egytto rarita del tempo e incomparabile,
e di tutta 1'Arabia, e di Aleppo, e della Chaldea, e di Cusa, e di Bassora, e d'lelim,
e Racca e Muzul, e Sereszur, e Van, e Diarbekir, e zul Kadriye e Kiurdistan e Ghur-
distan e della Citta di Erzerum e di Sivaz, e di Adena, e di Caramania, e di Barberia,
Abyssinia, e di Tunisi, e di Cesarea, e di Tripoli di Soria e dell' Isole di Cipro, e di
Rhodo e di Candia, e del Mar Bianco, e del Mar Negro, e dell' Isole e Estremita di
Essi e della Citta di Anatolia e di Rumelia, e anzi delle Citta de Tartari e delli Cossacki
e della Citta de Caffa, e di tutti gli luoghi circonvicini e delle Citta Bosna e Temiswar
e Belgrado e de'i Castelli Soggiacentigli, e della Moldavia e Valachia; e ancora
Padrone di Numerosi luoghi e citta lequali non meritano d'esser' scritte e lodate:
Col favore e gratia di Dio e consegnato e sogetto al mio pugno il legar' e Scioglior
gl'affari della Sicurezza, e il dilacorare e risarcire gli Nogozii delFUniverso, questa
causa per gratitudine per questi favori e per [76a] honorare gli Commandi di Dio,
e per compassione verso le Sue creature, mentro che e Debito al mio Corpo qualificato
di Clemenzia, alia volanta dell' Imperio mio, fu Stimato per opera di carita e per cosa
necessaria il non allontanare le Nostre Sublimi grazie da coloro che a Noi adhibiscono
Amicizia e Sincerita. Per ci6 coll' Ornamento dei Magnati tra gli Principi Christiani
l'Eletto tra i grandi della Nazione del Messia, il Correttore degli Affari della Republica
Christiana, l'Estensore de'Margini della Magnificenza e dignita, Padrone di Sublimita
e d'honore il Czaro di Moscovia e Dominante di tutta la Russia e degli Paesi e luoghi
soggiacenti, il Pietro Alexiowicz (Iddio gli dia buoni successi, e gli presi retto camino).
[Here follows the text of the Treaty, already printed after Letter 61, in substantially
the same terms : the differences being merely verbal, and concluding with the following
clause:]
[836] Onde secondo gli predetti Articoli, la presente rinuovata Capitalazione
essendosi confermata e honorata, invocato il santissimo nome di Dio (la di cui gloria
e perenna) chi da niente ha creato il cielo e la Terra; e fraponendo gli abondanti
Miracoli del Nostro Profeta ultimo d'ei Profeti, e Ornamento di quelli che sono
mandati da Dio, Muhamed Mustafa, secondo la vera Usanza d'ei buoni Costumi
degli Imperatori, e la buona consuetudine de'i Coronati costanti nelle Promesse,
promettiamo e conchiudiamo in sin' che da parte loro sara ogn'uno delli Articoli
della predetta Capitolazione, e delle condizioni e Promesse della Santa Pace in
maniera dovuta [84a] osservato e honorato, e principalamente l'affara della Pretesa
spettante alii Crimesi con consentimento d'ambidue le parti sara accordato e non si
facesse alcun' moto contrario ; anche dalla parte sublime del nostro Impero, e dalli
Nostri honorati successori e da'i Nostri Vicarii e dagli alii magnati Signori d'Essercito
e honorati Principi, e in commune dal Nostro Aussiliato Essercito, e dal Hano di
Crimea e da'i Sultani e da'i Mirza, e dal numeroso come le Stelle Tartarico Essercito,
e da tutti i Nostri servi, che vengono honorati col' nostro servizio, non si fara moto
contrario alia Pace.

14-January 1713/4
My Lord
The last time I had the honour to pay my respects to your Lord? was the 18 th
past, since w°h this stage of the world hath produced little worthy of your LofHp's
notice 'till within these few daies past.
io.6 DESPATCHES OF SIR ROBERT SUTTON
Here is lately arrived a Lieut. Col. who is the Nephew of Monsr Groothuss the
King of Sueden's Favourite, Expresse from Berlin, and I am told he hath brought a
Copy of a Treaty newly concluded between his Prussian Majesty and the Duke
Administrator of Holstein touching the Danes evacuation of the Estates of Holstein
Gottorp, and the safety of the same in the future, and that his Suedish Ma*v is invited
to enter into the same Treaty with regard to his Provinces in the Empire, but I do
not hear on what conditions. The Bostangi Bashi at Adrianople sent the Lieut.
Colonel by force to the Port, and he found Monsr de Fabrice here, who dispatched
him 4 daies ago to Dymoticha. I understand that Monsr de Fabrice has been charged
with the King of Sueden's concerns here : But he hath no Commerce directly with the11
Port, and done little but manage old Correspondences and some mony matters w*
some of ours and the French Merchants. In such other matters asr occurred, accord-
ing to their nature he [726] used the assistance of the French Emb or the Emperor's
Secretary, and he is now on his departure for Dymoticha.
The Vizir Azem lately assured the Emperor's Secretary that the Port would
observe the Treaty of Carlovitz with Poland, adding that they had indeed desired a
Tract of land in the Polish Ucraina, but would not insist upon it, since the Poles are
unwilling to gratify them.
The Turks have hitherto kept the Polish Embr and Monsr Crispin, King Stanislaus
his Envoy equally under confinement, without speaking to either of them about
businesse. But the Mirzah and Aga sent by the Tartar Han and the Seraskier Apti
Pashaw into Poland by Order of the Port, cl1 being now returned hither and having
made report of ther
state and condition, in w they found affairs in that Kingdome,
the Polish Emb was yesterday conducted to an audience of the Vizir, with whome
he remained about two hours, and 'tis believed that the Turks desist from all
Demands, except perhaps suchtt as the Embr had already agreed to at Adrianople,
and will content themselves w fortifying Choczin, provided the King and Republick
of Poland will consent theretor or even connive at it. I am not certain whether the
agreem* made with the Emb touching an amnesty for the Malecontent Poles will
ever be put into form and signed ; for the Turks have already given the Adherents of
King Stanislaus at Bender their conge. But that Prince having likewise desired
liberty to retire, it has not been [73a] hitherto granted him.
We have lately had an Allarm here, the Gr. Sigr having ordered all his Fleet
which may consist of about 30 ships of the line, to be fitted out, and a report being
industriously spread that his Highnesse would take up the Merchant ships, which use
the Trade to Egypt, whereof there are 10 or 12 that carry from 50 to 70 Guns, that
Directions were given for listing I2 m Levents besides those kept in constant pay, and
likewise for casting a great number of Brasse Canon. The Venetians thereupon began
to apprehend a storm forming against the Morea, the Turks having frequently dis-
covered how much they regret the losse of that Kingdome, and commonly declaring
their ill will against that Republick, besides which 'tis affirmed that the Sultan
before his return from Acffple caused the old accompts of the Publick Revenues of
the Morea to be laid before him. But several of the Turks subjects making a large
Pretension on others of the Republick for Cattle sold them, and the Venetian Bailo
firmly insisting that they should make their suit before the Magistrates under whose
Jurisdiction the Defendants are, in w* case he promises that speedy justice shall be
done them according to course of law, while the Port pretends that reason shall be
done them here, where by admitting false witnesses and other Artifices the Turks
might turn the Businesse as they please and make a very pernicious Precedent, and
the Genius of the Gr. Sigr and his present [736] Vizir being now pretty well known
to lie in forming Projects to frighten their Neighbours into a Compliance with their
Desires without any real intention of proceeding to an Effectual rupture, the whole
allarm abovementioned is believed to be no more then an Artfull strain of their usual
Policy, with this difference that the appearances in the present case are vanished
sooner then ordinary, and since the nearer prospect of a Peace between the Empr
and France 'tis probable the Turks will either lay aside the like fetches and devices,
or that they will passe upon none of their Neighbours.
Some of the Gr. Sigr>s ships are gone out into the Archipelago or to Alexandria,
and very few others are arming in the Arsenal, and 3 or 4 of the Turks Merchant
ships have been permitted to sail for Alexandria, besides there is no more talk of
raising Levents, and only two hundred Brasse Guns are designed to be cast, which
number will scarce supply those, wch have been put into Assac and Choczin.
These people are of late grown to a high pitch of insolence, which may possibly
abate upon a conclusion of Peace between the Emperr and France. They have lately
brought up 3 or 4 French Vessels seized in the Archipelago upon very frivolous
pretexts, in procuring which to be released the [74a] French Embass1 hath had a
great deal of trouble and difficulty. About the same time the Capitan Pashaw sent
me a Complaint against the Master of an English Ship, who he said had neglected to
salute some of the Sultan's Men of War, and desired me to order the Masters of all
British Ships to salute the said Men of War wherever they met them, come to their
obedience and shew their Passes, otherwise they should be brought up hither as good
Prize, as some French Vessels had been. I am . . .

[87a] . Pera of Constantinople,
7 March 1713/4
My Lord
For want of any matter worthy of your LordP'8 notice I have not troubled You
since the 14th of Jan'T last. I am now to acquaint Your Lordp. that it hath been
represented to the Port by the Tartar Han, that there are great Divisions in Poland,
and in particular that the Crown General Seniauski is greatly disaffected to King
Augustus. 'Tis assured that the said General hath kept a Correspondence wth King
Stanislaus, and I have heard that he had invited that Prince to the Army with a
Design to declare for him. I suppose there is no truth in the later part of the story,
w* may possibly be an artifice of that Prince to regain his liberty ; for the Port hath
since given him and all his adherents free leave to retire. 'Tis certain likewise that
the Tartar Han has sent the Cossacks, who are under his Protection, and some Tartars
upon an Expedition into the Polish Ucraina. To this new Posture of Affairs 'tis
attributed, that the Port hath changed its behaviour to the Palatin of Mazuria.
When that Minister imagined all matters were settled, and went to the Vizir in
Expectation that a sort of a Treaty, w011 [876] he had adjusted with the Commissaries
of the Port, would be signed and exchanged, the Vizir told him he might sign it, and
it should be presented to the Gr. Sigr but upon the Palatin's insisting that the Vizir
should reciprocally sign another Instrument, the later refused it, and afterwards gave
him to understand that the Port pretended the Cession of the Polish Ucraina, and
that the new agreement should be annexed to the Treaty of Carlovitz ; whereupon
the Palatin declaring that what was demanded exceeded his Powers, retired.
The King of Sueden lately by means of Monsr Brue the French Cancelliere and
Druggerman represented the necessity of his having a Minister Resident at the Port,
which was absolutely rejected by the Vizir, who answered that when that Prince had
taken his final resolution to depart, he might send his Proposals in writing, and that
the Port would consider them, and concert measures for his Journy and Passage
home. But his Majesty makes use of the private Canal of the Capigilar Kehaya to
convey what intelligences he pleases to the Gr. Sigr and hath a Correspondence w to
the Tartar Han. This last is the chief Abettor of the Pretension of the Polish Ucraina,
representing the great advantage it would be of to the Port. There are no prepara-
tions for a Campaign, Orders being [88a] sent only to the Militia of Rumelia to march
to Choczin to perfect the Fortifications of that place, nor does there appear any
Design of breaking with Poland. But the Gr. Sigr seems to imagine, that he exposes
himself to no risque by these Proceedings with the Poles, and appears to be desirous
of keeping up Divisions in that Kingdome in hopes of profiting by them, and procur-
ing the Cession of the Polish Ucraina or at least a part of it.
The Turkish Commissaries being three in number, are departed to settle the
Limits with those nominated on the part of the Czar.
Major General Lieven J is newly arrived from the Princesse Regent and Senate
of Sueden. 'Tis said he is to represent to his Suedish Majesty the absolute Necessity
of his returning home, and has brought a small sum of mony. The French Emb r
declares He has orders to the same Effect. I am . . .

2 April 1714
My Lord
My last was of the 7 th past. A few daies ago an Expresse arrived from the
Pashaw of Belgrade with advice, that the Governor of Peterwaradin had given him
part of the subscription of the Preliminaries between the Emp r and France, since
which the Commissaries of the Port have been again in Conference with the Polish
Embassadr and have relinquished the Pretension on the Polish Ucraina, and there
is little doubt but they will come to an agreement on all other points, the Imperial
Resident promoting it pretty warmly by his good Offices in favour of Poland.
'Tis written from Adrianople that it does not appear, that the King of Sueden
hath taken his resolution to depart. The Port hath demanded that Hostages be
1
H. H. von Liewen ; see von Kochen, Dagbok, p. 261.
given for his Majesty's safe passage through that Kingdome : but I know not whether
the Vizir still insists upon it or not. 'Tis assured that the Polish Emb r has yielded
to the Fortification of Choczin, tho' contrary to the Treaty of Carlovitz, and to the
restitution of the Estates of King Stanislaus and his adherents. 'Tis said the liberty
given that Prince to retire was again immediately revoked, The Port varying and
changing [896] its resolutions upon every new intelligence.
The Prince of Wallachia,1 who has governed that Country for 23 years and is
very rich, has been deposed and is coming hither in safe custody. If he escapes
with his life, there is no doubt but he will be stripped of his Estate. I am . . .

10 April 1714
My Lord,
I had the honour to write your Lordship under the 2nd. instant. But a con-
veyance now presenting by way of Marseille, I would not omit embracing it to
acquaint your Lordship that the Negotiation between the Port and the Polish
Embassador is now reduced to two points, viz*- the King of Sweden's passage through
that kingdome in the manner I formerly informed your Lordship to have been
agreed between them, for the security of the performance whereof the Turks require
no Hostages to be delivered on the part of Poland, And the approval of the Treaty
between the Czar and the Port, as far as it regards Poland. This last Article is not
wholly adjusted, but 'tis said they differ more about terms then the thing in question.
The Port insists no more on annexing these articles to the Treaty of Carlovitz. But
there is another difficulty remaining which is the Vizir's refusal to sign the Instrument,
considering it only as a Promise or Obligation on the part of Poland. The
Embassador on the other side will have it passe for an agreement between the Parties
And insists for his Master's honour that the Vizir sign a Counter-Instrument. I
am . . .

13 April 1714
My Lord,
The French Ship, by which I had the honour to write your Lordship the 10th
not being yet departed, I profit of the opportunity to acquaint you, that on Sunday
the n.th instant the Instrument of agreement was mutually signed by the Vizir
Azem and the Polish Embassador. And this morning the later hath had his audience
of the Grand Signor.
The late Prince of Wallachia is not yet arrived.
I am . . .
1
Constantin Brancovan.

17 April 1714
My Lord
I had the honour to write your Lord» by way of Marseille the th
10th and 131th in-
stant, and under the later date acquainted you that on the 11 the agreem was
mutually signed by the Vizir Azem and the Polishr
Embr who in consequence thereof
was conducted to his audience of the Gr. Sig two daies after. I now transmit your
LordP a Copy of the Instrument and am confident you will admire the fruit of above
a twelve months negotiation with great contention [sic; content ?].
'Tis now believed the Port will begin to wrangle with the Venetians, for which
the Vizir has reserved five or six pretensions of the subjects of the Port upon those of
Venice, and a complaint or two of Irregularities pretended to have been committed
by the Venetians upon the Frontiers. The late Prince of Wallachia is not yet arrived,
having been detained upon the road to give him for a composition, which 'tis believed
will ensue, the Port demanding [956] of him 3000 Purses of mony, and he having
already offered 1500. I am . . .
P.S. 'Tis assured that King Stanislaus hath made his Treaty with King Augustus,
and hath kept a correspondence for some time with the Crown General
Sieniauski.
Among the Presents, which the Polish Embr brought, there was a Mace
set with precious stones, against which the Gr. Sigr took exception, the Turks
looking upon such a Present as only proper to be sentr as a Defiance or Menace,
and so it was immediately sent back to the Emb .
[g6a] [Enclosure]
Articuli Serenissimum Regem et Rempublicam Polonice
inter et Portam Ottomannicam 11 do. Aprilis Anno 1714
Conclusi, vigore quorum Divisiones huiusque inter Ambas
partes versantes e medio sublare sunt.
1. Quecunque inter Prefulgidam Portam et Serenissimum Czarum Muscovice
Anno a Nativitate Christi 1713 die 13 Mensis Iunii Adrianopoli, interveniente Capitu-
lationis puncto primo, Muscovitici Plenipotentiarii ratione Rerum Poloniam con-
cernentium observanda staturerunt et appromiserunt, ea parte quoque Serenessimi
Regis Poloniarum atque Reipublice hujus Puncti Polonici Observantia appromittitur.
2. Quandocunque Praefulgida Porta Regem Suecice per Poloniam versus limites
ejus remittere voluerit, in fundamento pacare amicitice ratione hujus transitus
Serenissimo Regi Polonice ac Reipublicae facta notitia, ab illis Commissarii assigna-
buntur, cum quibus de congruo modo facta Conferentia et Constituto concesso
Transitu, dum procedetur, tempore itineris a Serenissimo Rege Polonice ac Republics,
libertas ac Securitas appromittitur.

29 April 1714
My Lord
In my last of the 17th inst. I transmitted Your Lordp a Copy of the Articles of
agreement signed by the Vizir and the Polish Embr the1 11 th current, and lest the same
should miscarry,
r 011
I now inclose ath Duplicate thereof. After the Emb r ' s Audience
of the Gr. Sig w was on the 13 he desired leave of the Port to notify the same to
the other Christian Ministers upon the Place, and to receive and return their visits
according to Custome : but it was refused him.
'Tis now again assured, that the Port has given King Stanislaus and his adherents
Leave to retire, if the Debts, v/ch they haver contracted and 'tis feared are unable to
pay at present, prove no Obstacle. Mons Crispin, who resided at the Port on the
part of that Prince, and followed the Court hither by the Vizir's particular direction,
has been dismissed, and is gone to the King of Sueden to endeavour to procure monyr
for discharge of his Debts. In the mean time his Family remains here, and Sigch
Seraphim the Suedish Druggerman, who served him, is imprison'd for the Debts, w
have been contracted by his means.
I am informed, that after the Vizir's refusal to admit a Suedish Minister at the
Port, the French Embr was charged with the Commission to treat about the Kingr of
Sueden's Departure and Passage through Poland with the participation of Mons de
Fierville the French Envoy, to that Prince, who has been for some time in the Emb r ' s
House. But that the Vizir has declined settling those matters here, and hath referred
them to the Tartar Han, wch will draw them still into greater length, and some
people are not without apprehensions, that, when that Prince shall resolve to depart
the Port may require some sort of Security for payment of the Sums, wch have been
lent him out of the Publick Treasury.
[996] The late Prince of Wallachia on his arrival the 11 th inst. was put into the
seven Towers, where he is very ill used, and 'tis said that in his own Justification he
has accused the present Prince and the principal Boyars, who were instrumental in his
Disgrace of Intelligence with the Czar, when he invaded Moldavia, and that the Port
hath sent for them hither. If it be true, there is reason enough to believe they will
be all entirely ruined, and measures taken to secure that Principality to the Obedience
of the Port for the future. I am . . .

14 June 1714
My Lord
Very little hath occurred here worthth your LordP'8 notice since the last, which I
had the honour to write you under the 29 April. King Stanislaus no sooner received
the Port's leave to retire and a Passeport for his Journey but he mounted on Horse-
J
This is on fo. 100a.
back, and is since arrived in Transilvania, whither Monsr Poniatowski, who was dis-
patched to him by the King of Sueden, not finding him at Bender, hath followed him.
All people, both at Demoticha and here, are now persuaded, that the King of
Sueden is really resolved to depart, what relates thereto and to his passage is treated
at the Port by the French Embassadour who is much dissatisfied with his Negoti-
ations. That Prince demands a Passeport without being willing to specify the Road
he designs to take, which the Vizir refuses, and insists that he shall declare through
what places he intends to passe, and, as far as I can learn, the matter still remains
in these terms. I have been told that his Majesty likewise desires more mony of
the Port; but that the Vizir required that, before he gave any answer to that proposi-
tion, the King should ask it under his own handwriting. That Prince [1046] and his
Court are so much in Debt, and so unprovided of mony, that 'tis not easy to imagine
how he can leave this country without the Port's assistance.
'Tis certain that the Vizir at first declined treating or discoursing about the
Matters concerning that Prince's departure and Passage, and referred them to the
Tartar Han, who hath actually since dispatched a Murzah into Poland with instruc-
tion to treat, among other things, about his Majesty's passage, and settle matters
relating thereto, and even to demand Hostages for His safety therein. From these
steps and the Vizir's behaviour and management some conjecture, that the Port
hath conceived some umbrage at the King of Sueden's passing thro' the Empr>s
Countries : But it appears more probable, that they are willing to detain him under
specious Pretences 'till their Frontiers be regulated, and all other matters be fully
settled with Muscovy and Poland.
The late Prince of Wallachia and his whole family and Relations have been
very hardly used in the Seven Towers. The Port hath seized upon all the monies and
Effects, that could be found belonging to him, and he hath since been put into the
Bostangi Bashi's hands to be tormented, where he still [1066] remains, and hath
discovered some more monies which he had concealed. I am . . .

3 September 1714
My Lord
I have not had the honour to write Your Lordp since the 11 th July for want of
a conveyance.
Monsr Grotthusse Envoy from the King of Sueden arrived here on the 18th July,
and immediately notified the same to the French and Venetian Emb rs and the Imp1
Resident; the French Emb r gave him a private Visit the same Evening. The
Envoy afterwards made me a complim* by one of Our Merchants letting me know he
was sorry that he could not see me by reason of the Expresse Orders he had received
from the King his Master to the contrary. He was attended by ten Suedes Officers
besides his own Domestick Officers, 2 Pages and 14 footmen who were all richly
clothed here.
The Proposal of another loan of money to His Suedish Majesty by the Port
found no ingression, the Vizir having stopped the Envoy short upon that subject at
his visit by telling him it was against the Turkish Law to lend mony to Christians,
but that the Gr. Sigr might make the King his Master a Present, which however he
could not positively promise, but would contribute towards it by his good Offices.
The Envoy had two Audiences, of the Gr. Sigr in the first whereof he delivered the
King his [1066] Master's Letter to his Highnesse, and in the latter on the 15th past
received his Highnesse's answer. After having paid his Publick visits to the French
and Venetian Embassadors and received theirs in return, he took his Leave of the
Vizir the 29th and departed the 31 t h past. The Gr. Sigr had once an intention to
make that Prince a Moderate Present in Ducats, but 'tis now much doubted whether
any is designed him. He is to. passe thro' Wallachia attended and conducted by
two Capigi Bashis and a Commissary to defray his Expences and supply him with
Necessaries to the confines of Transilvania. A Commissary is dispatched to Bender
to bring the Suedes Officers and souldiers thence, and conduct them to Bucharest,
where they are to meet his Suedish Majesty. The French Emb r supplied the Suedes
here with about 25,000 Dollars by Order from the King his Master.
The Polish Embassr and Internuntius had their audience of Leave of the Gr. Sigr
the 17th and that of the Vizir on the 22th past. The Port having refused them leave
to receive and return the Visits of the Ministers of the other Christian Powers, they
passed their compliments to us by the Secretary of the Embassy. They began their
Journy homewards the 28th past. [107a] The Turkish Commissaries for marking
the Limits with the Muscovites, after having finished their work returned hither about
ten daies ago. The Muscovite Emb rs paid their Visit of Leave to the Vizir two or
three daies after, who received and dismissed them with more then usual civility,
and granted them a saick for transporting their heavy baggage to Assac. They
likewise passed their Compliments with us by their Secretary and set out on the 2d
instant for Muscovy.
After no further Discoveries could be made of the late Prince of Wallachia's
Estate, On the 19th past He, his four sons, and a kinsman, who had been much in his
confidence and employed by him, were beheaded for High Treason and intelligence
with the Muscovites, their Bodies exposed that day before the Seraglio Gate and
thrown into the Sea at night. His Princesse, Daughters and 3 sons in Law remain
still in the Bostangi Bashi's Custody.
The further warlike Provisions of the Port, the casting of a good quantity of new
Brasse Canon and putting the Fleet into good Order, have again cast the Venetians
here into great Jealousies and Allarms, but there hitherto appear no evident signs
of a Rupture with that Republick, tho' 'tis generally apprehended that much time
will [io8i] not passe before the Port will take some occasion to pick a quarrell, and
attack the Morea. I am . . .
[1146] Pera of Constantinople,
7 October 1714
My Lord
I have been honoured with your Lordship's Letters of the 3rd and 7th August,
On receipt whereof, in Obedience to the Commands of the Lords Justices as far as
the stile of this Court would permit, the Sultan never granting audiences to Forreign
Ministers unless they have Letters to present him on the Part of their Masters, I
immediately demanded an Audience of the Vizir Azem, which by reason of the
Ceremonies used by the Turks among themselves in the later end of the Ramezan
and the Feast of Bairam was put off 'till the 5th instant, at which time I notified
to his 'Excellency the Death of the late Queen of Blessed Memory and the Happy
accession of his Present Majesty to the Throne of Great Britain with the universal
joy and Applause of his Kingdomes. The Vizir, who was before apprised thereof,
Answered That he hoped this Empire would maintain the Same Friendship and
good Correspondence with his Majesty as with His Predecessors. He afterwards
inquired about the situation of His Majesty's Countries in Germany, and concerning
the person in Lorrain, who assumes the Title of King of Great Britain (The French
Merchants having several times given it out here that the late Queen had by Will
declared [1146] him Her Successor) and was curious to know the reasons of His
incapacity to inherit the Crown, with which and the Laws of Great Britain in that
respect I acquainted Him. He answered that the British is a wise Nation, and both
He and the other Ministers of the Port, who stood about him, expressed great
Satisfaction.
I told him I had Orders to make the same Notification to the Sultan, which I
was ready to do whenever His Excellency could procure me an Audience of His
Highnesse, but that, the King not being arrived in England, I had no Letter to
present from his Majesty on this Occasion, and finding by his Answer, that it was
impracticable, I intreated him to give part thereof to his Highnesse, which he did
by Talkish in Writing immediately after my departure from him. He seemed to
expect that his Majesty after his Arrival in England would write the Gr. Signor
and himself, His Highnesse on his Accession to the Ottoman Throne having given
part thereof by Letter to all the Princes in Amity with the Port.
The King of Sueden left Demotica the 21 th past and arrived that evening at
Demirdesh, where he recd the Gr. Sigr's Presents consisting in a Tent for himself and
about 25 more for his Retinue, a sabre set with precious stones, one Horse with and
nine more without [115a] Furniture. The Tent, sabre and Furniture are said to be
very ordinary and to savour very much of the Gr. Sigr's Frugality. His Suedish
Majesty very early and next morning continued his Journy towards Wallachia.
The French Embr delivered 21,000 Dollars to the Suedes Envoy here, and sent
20,000 more to Demotica for that Prince.
The Apprehensions of a rupture between the Port and the Republick of Venice
have been renewed here upon the Port's causing the Roads and Bridges to be repaired
in the parts about Salonichi and Larissa, the erecting Magazins of Provisions and
Ammunition there and at Negropont, to transport part whereof hence they have
taken up several Vessels, the ordering the Turks Merchant Ships, which use the Trade
to Egypt, to be here this winter, and giving out orders for Listing 15,000 Levents, and
for the removal of about nine or twelve Chambers of Janissaries from Choczin to
Negropont.

Extract from a letter dated 8 April 1715
. . . The jealousies of the Czar, that I had done him ill Offices at the Port, are
certainly without any justr foundation, And I am confident I do the Dutch Embassr
and his Druggerman Mons Theyls no wrong in suspecting them of having been instru-
mental in inspiring them into Monsr Schaffiroff, who is himself suspicious enough.
I have been more then once advised of their artifice in that particular, and as the
Czar hath no Minister here, And the Managem* of his interests and intelligences in
this country is committed to their care, I cannot but observe the Extreme Jealousy,
which for particular reasons they continually shew of me. It is to the private j ealousy,
which reigns between themselves, upon the Baron Schaffiroff's placing lesse confi-
dence in the Embr then inch the Druggerman, who is his Master's Factotum, that I
attribute a Confession, w the Embr hath lately made to the Emp1"8 Resident,
[165a] that He had Instructions from the Court of Muscovy to promote, as much as
lay in his powers, the war against the Venetians. I presume the first grounds of
suspicion, which the Czar and his Ministers took of my behaviour, were owing to
certain Excuses, more then were necessary, used by the Lord Viscount Bolingbroke
to the Suedes Envoy, when He complained of the part I had acted by intervening
in the Conferences wherein the Peace was concluded the 5 th of April 1712 between
the Czar and the Port, which whole discourse was transmitted and possibly received
a better turn then it deserved in a letter from the said Envoy to Monsr Funck the late
Suedes Envoy at the Port, and that Letter was intercepted and fell into the Czar's
hands. Towards the end of the same year the Gr. Sigr declared war anew ag* the Czar,
and in the beginning of the year following removed to Adrianople. 'Tis true I did
not interpose or contribute towards the confirming of the Treaty of Peace, which
was subscribed again the same summer at Adrianople, as the Dutch did ; But it is
as true, that I was never desired or invited by rthe Czar's Ministers so to do, as the
Dutch were, besides that, when the Dutch Emb sent his Druggerman to Adrianople
for that purpose, circumstances were not ripe for it, whereof I think there cannot be cl1
a
clearer proof then the Preamble to the said Treaty so injurious to the Czar's honour, w
needed not to have been, if his Ministers had had the [1656] patience to live a month
longer in the Seven Towers, and give the Turks a little more leisure to see their Folly
and mistake; for 'twas then evident to most people, that they had no thoughts of
entring into a new war, but ridiculously fancied, that by the Appearance of it, they
should prevail with the King of Sweden to return home, after which they intended to
accept the wonderfull condescensions which they imagined their motions would
fright the Muscovites into. I confesse it was not at that time in my power to inter-
meddle, having received Orders to the contrary from the Earl of Dartmouth under
the 11 March 1711/12, tho' under the last of the preceding Month His LordP had
transmitted me the late Queen's entire approval of my continuing my best endeavours
to prevent a Breach between the Turk and Muscovite, wch, as his LordP added, in the
then posture of the Affairs of Europe might be of the utmost ill consequence. I shall
now, in obedience to His Majesty's Commands, render the Czar the best Offices in
my power, tho' I believe there is little need thereof. But as He hath no Minister
residing at the Port, I cannot expect they will ever be fairly represented to Him by
those, who are employed here in his concerns.

The Despatches of Sir Robert Sutton 1953

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The Despatches of Sir Robert Sutton 1953

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DESPATCHES OF SIR ROBERT SUTTON

i. Sir Robert Sutton, Ambassador at Constantinople, to Lord Sunderland,

5. Sutton to Lord Dartmouth.

10. Sutton to Dartmouth.

11. Sutton to Dartmouth.

12. Sutton to Dartmouth.

13. Sutton to Dartmouth.

14. Sutton to Dartmouth.

15. Sutton to Dartmouth.

16. Sutton to Dartmouth.

17. Sutton to Dartmouth.

18. Sutton to Dartmouth.

19. Sutton to Dartmouth.

20. Sutton to Dartmouth.

21. Sutton to Dartmouth.

23. Sutton to Dartmouth.

24. Sutton to Dartmouth.

26. Sutton to Dartmouth.

27. Sutton to Dartmouth.

28. Sutton to Dartmouth.

29. Sutton to Dartmouth.

30. Sutton to Dartmouth.

31. Sutton to Dartmouth.

[239a] ' [Letter C]

33. Sutton to Dartmouth.

34. Sutton to Dartmouth.

35. Sutton to Dartmouth.2

36. Sutton to Dartmouth.

37. Sutton to Dartmouth.

38. Sutton to Dartmouth.

39. Sutton to Dartmouth.

40. Sutton to Dartmouth.

42. Sutton to Dartmouth.

43. Sutton to Dartmouth.

44. Sutton to Dartmouth.2

45. Sutton to Dartmouth.

46. Sutton to Dartmouth.

Decr 26, 1712.

47. Sutton to Dartmouth.

48. Sutton to Dartmouth.

49. Sutton to Dartmouth.

50. Sutton to Dartmouth. 2

51. Sutton to Dartmouth.

not think fit to receive him, at least at that time.

52. Sutton to Dartmouth.1

53. Sutton to Dartmouth.1

55. Sutton to Dartmouth. 2

56. Sutton to Dartmouth.

57. Sutton to Dartmouth.

58. Sutton to Dartmouth.

59. Sutton to Dartmouth.

60. Sutton to Dartmouth.

61. Sutton to Dartmouth.

65. Sutton to Bolingbroke.

66. Sutton to Bolingbroke.

67. Sutton to Bolingbroke.

68. Sutton to Bolingbroke.

69. Sutton to Bolingbroke.

70. Sutton to Bolingbroke.

71. Sutton to Bolingbroke.

72. Sutton to Bolingbroke.

73. Sutton to Bolingbroke.

75. Sutton to Bolingbroke.