His Majesties Commission to All the Lords, And Others of the Privie..

1611. The Creation of Baronets Under James I [Nobility]. [Great Britain]. [James I (1566-1625), King of England and Ireland]. His Majesties Commission to All the Lords, And Others of the Privie Counsell, Touching the Creation of Baronets, Whereunto are Annexed Divers Instructions, And His Majesties Letters Patents Containing the Forme of the Said Creation. Also the Forme of an Oath to be Taken by the Said Baronets. London: Imprinted by Robert Barker, 1611. [iv], 18, p. 18, 18-38, [2], 39-44 pp. First leaf blank (signed "A"). Lacking final leaf, a blank. Quarto (7-1/4" x 5-1/2"). Stab-stitched pamphlet bound into recent three-quarter calf over marbled boards, gilt and blind fillets and gilt title and publication date to spine. Moderate toning to interior, light soiling to first leaf, a small repair to its verso, minor smudges to title page and following leaf. A handsome copy. $850. * Only editions. Enactments dealing with the creation of the baronetage by James I. The title of baronet, "a new dignitie between Barons and Knights," was established by letters patent as a way for James to raise revenue quickly without Parliament. Initially, prospective baronets were required to pay enough money to "maintaine the number of thirtie foote-Souldiers in Ireland" for three years at a rate of eight pence per day, men badly needed to maintain English control in Ulster. The second title largely reprints the letters patent of the first title and includes some additional clarification about matters of precedence. There are 1,274 baronets on the Official Roll of the Baronetage today. English Short-Title Catalogue S122652, S100729.