BY THE KING.
¶ A Proclamation for the strict Observance, and Execution of the Lawes, and Statutes
made against Carrying, or Sending of Gold, or Silver, out of the Kingdom.
WHEREAS by the Statutes of this Our Kingdom, the transportation of Gold, and Silver in Mony, Bullion, Plate, or Vessell, without Our licence, is prohibited under the pain of forfeiture thereof; And as the Person who shall make any discovery therein, is by the same rewarded with a considerable part of such forfeiture, so all Searchers, and Officers conniving thereat are severely punishable. And whereas upon advice with Our Councell, we find it very necessary at this present, that all possible care and diligence should be used for the strict, and due observance, and execution of these Lawes, and Statutes, We have therefore thought fit to publish and declare Our pleasure herein, and doe hereby charge, and require all Our Wardens of Ports, Searchers, and other Our Officers, and Ministers whatsoever, whom it may concern, that they use their best and utmost diligence, and indeavour, to prevent the sending, carrying, or transporting of any Gold, or Silver, in Mony, Bullion, Plate, or Vessell, in any manner, or way, out of this Realme contrary to the Lawes, and Statutes of the Kingdom, not forbearing to make search, and to performe the utmost of their duty (to which they are obliged by their oath & office) for, or in respect of any Order, or Ordinance, or Command of one or both Houses of Parliament: And We doe hereby let all Our Subjects know, that whosoever shall offend herein, and whatsoever Searcher, or Officer shall be negligent, or faile in the performance of his duty, & the trust of his place concerning the same, they shall incurre Our high displeasure, and expect to suffer, and undergoe the extreamest penalties, forfeitures, & punishments, which by the Lawes of the Land may be inflicted upon them. And whosoever shall discover and bring to light any thing done, or suffered, or intended to be done for, or touching the transporting of any Gold, or Silver contrary to the Law (besides the Reward which is appointed, and provided for him by the Statutes of the Realme) we shall take it as a very good, and acceptable service done by them to Us, and to Our Kingdome.
¶ Given at Our Court at Oxford, this Tenth day of February, in the Eighteenth yeare of Our Reigne.
God save the King.