A Narrative of all the proceedings in the Draining of the Great Level, &c.
43 Eliz. In the 43rd year of Queen ELIZABETH—an Act was made to encourage any that would undertake the draining of the said Great Level: which was attempted in several parts; by Carril for the draining of Thorney, by Cocking and others for Londoners' Fens—which were both gained, and lost again.
3 Jac. In the third year of King JAMES—the whole was attempted to be drained by Sir JOHN POPHAM Knight, Chief Justice; Sir THOMAS FLEMING, Chief Baron; Sir WILLIAM RUMNEY, Knight and Alderman of London; and JOHN ELDRED citizen of London; who were to have had for their recompense 130,000 acres: who did proceed, but could not effect that work.
16 Jac. In the 16th year of King JAMES—Sir WILLIAM AYLOFFE Knight and ANTHONY THOMAS Esquire became Undertakers to drain the said Level, and were to have had two thirds of some, and one half of other grounds for their recompense: but this draining was without success.
Cambridge Law. 20 Feb. 19 Jac. Afterwards—King JAMES himself, by a Law of Sewers was declared Undertaker for the draining the whole; and was to have had for his recompense 120,000 acres: but this attempt likewise failed.
In the 6th year of King CHARLES the FIRST (of blessed
