University of Virginia Library

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18

CCLXXXI. Governor in Virginia. A Commission to Sir George
Yeardley
January 25, 1622/3

Whereas there were of late Proclamations made concerning
those most lewd vices of Swearing and Drunkenesse, and
officers likewise assigned to enforme the Governor of such as should be
delinquent, wch either by negligence, feare, or partialitie of the said officers
was negle[cted] And whereas Sr George Yeardley very worthely hath
offered, and is willing to take into his especiall care, that due execuc̃on
of those Lawes be p̱formed. Now Know yee that I Sr Francis Wyatt let
Governor and Capt generall of Virginia, out of the assured confidence that
I haue of the vigilance and integritie of the said Sr George Yeardley, do
giue him full power, license, and authoritie to appoint, make, erect, and
constitute officers for that purpose, in every Corporation and Plantation,
and to impose, tax, or punnish, the said offendors, according to the tenour
of ye said Proclamation or otherwise, as he in his discretion shall thinke
fitt: Straightly chargeing all his Maties subiects wthin this Colony, to take
especiall notice of this my warant, and Commission, and to be obedient
and assistant vnto the said Sr George Yeardley, or to his appointed officers
in all cases that may concern the p̢misses, as they will answer the contrary,
at theire perills. Given at James Citty vndr my hand and great Seale of
the Colony the 25th of January Anno Dm̃ 1622.

A Comission to Sr George Yeardley for punishing of swearing & Drunknes.