SIR WILLIAM, an eminent poet of the 17th century, was born at Oxford in 1606. After some stay at the university, he entered into the service of Frances first duchess of Richmond, and afterwards of Fulke Grevil, Lord Brook; who having an excellent taste for poetry, was much charmed with him. He got great esteem by writing poems and plays; and upon the death of Ben Johnson was created poet-laureat. He wrote his poem Gondibert at Paris. He formed a design for carrying over a considerable number of artificers, especially weavers, to Virginia, by the encouragement of Henrietta Maria, the queen-mother of England, who obtained leave for him of the king of France. But he and his company were seized by some parliament ships, and he carried prisoner first to the isle of Wight, and then to the tower of London; but, by the mediation of Milton and others, he got his liberty as a prisoner at large. At this time tragedies and comedies being prohibited, he contrived to set up an opera, to be performed by declamations and music. This Italian opera began in Rutland-house in Charter-housetyard, 1656; but was afterwards removed to the Cockpit in Drury-lane, and was much frequented for many years. In 1648, his Madagascar, with other poems, were printed. He died in 1668.

DR CHARLES, an eminent civilian and writer, eldest son of the preceding, and educated at Cambridge: he wrote several political tracts, and likewise plays. He was (1685) empowered, with the master of the revels, to inspect the plays designed for the stage, that no immoralities might be presented. His Essays on Trade are in high esteem, and were reprinted in 5 vols 8vo, in 1771. Dr Davenant was inspector-general of exports and imports; and died in 1712.