But
Charles still hoped to be sovereign in England and would not cross the
seas. He sent, however, to Sir William Berkeley a renewal of his Governor's
commission, and appointed Norwood Treasurer of Virginia, and said,
doubtless, many gay and pleasant things.
In Virginia there continued to appear from England adherents of the ancient
regime. Men, women, and children came until to a considerable degree the
tone of society rang Cavalier. This immigration, now lighter, now heavier,
continued through a rather prolonged period. There came now to Virginia
families whose names are often met in the later history of the land. Now
Washingtons appear, with Randolphs, Carys, Skipwiths, Brodnaxes, Tylers,
Masons, Madisons, Monroes, and many more. These persons are not without
means; they bring with them servants; they are in high favor with Governor
and Council; they acquire large tracts of virgin land; they bring in
indentured labor; they purchase African slaves; they cultivate tobacco.
From being English country gentlemen they turn easily to become Virginia
planters.
But the Virginia Assembly had thrown a gauntlet before the victorious
Commonwealth; and the Long Parliament now declared the colony to be in
contumacy, assembled and dispatched ships against her, and laid an embargo
upon trade with the rebellious daughter. In January of 1652 English ships
appeared off Point Comfort. Four Commissioners of the Commonwealth were
aboard, of whom that strong man Claiborne was one.
Pages:
107
108
109
110
111
112
113
114
115
116
117
118
119
120
121
122
123
124
125
126
127
128
129
130
131