Folio 90: Jefferyes to Stanhope. Courland still the same except that the states separated...

SP 91/9/90

1719 Feb 20

Folio 90: Jefferyes to Stanhope. Courland still the same except that the states separated after command from the Czar not to yield to any orders of the republic to appear at the diet. The Czar is due back from Olonitz, restored to health and needed here. He is resolved to put the margrave of Brandenburg in possession of Courland. If the king of Prussia agrees, a new war in Poland is unavoidable. The slow retirement of the Russian troops out of Poland, and orders to be ready to march for those here and in Finland, appear to confirm the Czar's resolution. No knowledge whether Osterman or Mardefeld know if the queen of Sweden plans to renew the conferences at Aland. They hope so, as HM will be hindered from making peace with Sweden. Lieut.-General Buturlin sent here by the Czar from Olonitz to hasten work on the fleet and galleys for going to sea next spring. The number of men of war is uncertain, but he will have 150 galleys in which he can embark 20,000 men. Brigadier Le Fort returned from Danzig with 2 or 3 prisoners of state, among whom Gavanski, son-in-law of general Repnin, reckoned among the best families in Russia, who is accused of speaking disrespectfully of the Czar and Court. Several persons dissatisfied with the Czar's service, would quit if they knew how, one being Vice-Admiral Creutz, dutchman, now old, who wants to retire to England. He seeks protection of HM, hoping to serve him with his experience of years in this country. He is the best officer the Czar has for speed in fitting out a fleet. Maybe when Sir John Norris comes to the Baltic with the fleet HM could give orders to reclaim both English and Dutch seamen and he could get away under that pretext. Deane, Captain-Lieutenant Armitage and Lieut. Villiers all know the opinion of the British Court regarding British sea officers in the service of the Czar and hope it is no prejudice to them. All wish to return home, waiting only for HM's orders. Rear-Admiral Gordon is recruiting more seamen from Great Britain. Dated St Petersburg, 20 Feb 1718/9.

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