An epitomy of English history wherein arbitrary government is display'd to the life, in the illegal transactions of the late times under the tyrannick usurpation of Oliver Cromwell; being a paralell to the four years reign of the late King James, whose government was popery, slavery, and arbitrary power, but now happily delivered by the instrumental means of King William & Queen Mary. Illustrated with copper plates. By Tho. May Esq; a late Member of Parliament.

Arbitrary Government, displayed to the Life, in the illegal Transactions of the late Times.

IF we mount up the Hill of Time present, and thence take a view; on either hand lyes Time past, and Time future, or to come; the latter is continually hidden in a Cloud, and we are not able to take any Pro∣spect of it, unless by Divine or Prophetick illumination, which tho certain, is rare; yet a wise man by looking back on Time past, and Comparing the certain Effects resulting from several Causes, may give a shrewd Guess of what is to come; and thus from Experience he will pronounce, that Fears and Jealousies betwixt a Prince and his people, being wrought to the height, will pro∣duce on the one hand Severity, on the other Rebellion: If the Prince gets the better of the People, after they have run into actual disobedience, it is not to be ex∣pected, he should, whilst he Lives, slacken the Reins of his Power, but by keeping them under, extend it to the utmost of the line: If the people thrive in their Re∣bellion, the certain sequel is Usurpation, Tyrannick and Arbitrary Government, as hath been seen in several Ages, and recounted in several Histories, which we shall not mention; our Design being to confine our Discourse to our own late Affairs, and Transactions, from the first setting up of the Rump, in the place of Monarchy, to the Restauration of our present Monarch, whom God grant long to Reign.

If we look down from this Hill of Time presents tho∣row the Optick of History, on Time past, we behold the first Ages as in Landskip only, not in a due Propor∣tion, being much lessened in Relation; the middle A∣ges

are more clearly viewed, and lye open to discove∣ry, and are more largely Displayed in History: but again, the more near, or next to the Mountain of Time present, are also covered in a certain obscurity, and as it were over-shadowed by the Mount of Time present, that Truth is traced with a faint touch, and usually things are not so clearly seen, as at a longer distance. But since every day renders the Prospect more clear, We hope in this our short Relation, of the late Usur∣pers, and of their Tyrannick and Arbitrary Government, to shew to the People a most lucid Picture of that dread∣ed Monster, which they do, and may most justly fear, Arbitrary Government.

Fears and Jealousies fomented and heightned, we may say begot it, and Rebellion brought it forth, for it was the foul Issue of our bloody Civil Wars. It is not my task to write the Transactions, between the late King and his Parliaments, nor to draw forth a Scheme of that most unnatural War, which robb'd Eng∣land of it's Peace, and devoured so many brave and valiant Subjects; this hath been sufficiently and fully, by several Pens, already performed. But I shall begin the rise of my Historical Collections, from the time of the Exclusion of the greater part of the Members of the house of Commons, called the long Parliament, and when the Tail or Rump, as they are called, of the said Commons, against all Law and Right usurped, the Regal Authority of the Nation, and placing it upon them∣selves, Exercised a Tyrannick, and Arbitrary Government, with any shadow of legal Authority; for altho it is not to be doubted, that the bloody War, commenced by the long Parliament, against their sovereign Lord and King, was illegal and unjust, yet I say, by that Bill, passed by his late Majesty, together with the Bill of attainder against the Earl of Strafford, on the 8th. of May, 1641. for the continuance of that Parliament, and that it should not be Prorogued or Adjourned, but by act of Parliament, and on the 10th. of the same Month had the Royal assent, gave them I say

some Colour or shadow of Authority, and extreamly in∣broiled the Kings affairs. The advisers to the passing of this Act are not certainly known, some attribute it to the Lord Say, others to the designing Marquess Ha∣milton, who brag'd of it in Scotland, as his Act; but whoever they were, it prov'd most pernicious to the King, and seem'd to Authorise the Rebellion by his own Act.

But before we enter upon the Actions of these Usur∣pers, we shall only make mention of some prelimina∣ry Acts, of illegal Arbitrariness, of this Parliament, before their Votes of Non-Addresses to the King, and their sceluding their fellow Members, and of their growing up to that perfection of Evil, in taking upon them the Administration of the Government, and of that unparallel'd-Murther of a great Monarch, their sove∣raign Lord and King. The first was, under the Notion of maintaining the Protestant Religion, their entring into a solemn Protestation or Association among them∣selves, and also imposing it on the Consciences of all o∣thers, who should bear any Office either in Church or State. Secondly, their raising men, arming them, and forming an Army, and so running on into actual Re∣bellion, against their Head, and continuing that most Bloody War with so much Heat and Animosity, heark∣hing to no Treaties, &c. Next, their flinging the Bi∣shops out of the House, and imprisoning twelve of them for asserting their Right only, by a Protestation. And which was absolutely against the Priviledges granted to them by Magna Charta, and a lopping off one of the Estates of the Realm. Then their putting a diffe∣rence between the Kings person, and his politick Ca∣pacity, raising War against him in his own Name, for as yet the Keepers of the Liberties of England were not thought of, but the Style ran in the name of the King and Parliament, making the King to fight against him∣self, and to War with himself. Next their illegal im∣prisoning their fellow Subjects, and disseizing many of their free Holds, for their Loyalty to their Prince, and

for not lending them Money to carry on their Rebelli∣on, and also putting to Death the Hothams, all contra∣ry to Magna Charta, and the Liberty of the subject, and full of Arbitrariness. Next their endeavouring to per∣swade the People, that the Soveraignty law wholly and radically in them, and so effectually in the Parliament, on House of Commons, for they now began to be esteem∣ed only the Parliament. Then by their Endeavouring ••o take the power of the Sword out of their Soveraigns ••and, and to put it into their own, thereby to make him▪ a King of Clouts, or in Show, or a meer Duke of Venice. Then their own Declaration, printed and published; shewed how well Arbitrariness thrived, when they owned, That their Votes were not to be questi∣oned, either by King or People: That no Precedents could bound their proceedings: That the Soveraign Power resides in the two Horses: That the King hath no negative Voyce: That a levying War against the personal Commands of the King, tho he were pre∣sent is not a levying War against the King, but that a levying War against his Laws and Authority, is le∣vying War against the King, which was levying War against them: That Treason could not be committed against the person of the King, otherwise then he was intrusted: That they had power to judge of his Acti∣ons, and whether he discharged his trust or not, and that they were only judges of the Law. Their Arbi∣trary putting to death of Yeomans and Boucher at Bristol, and others at London, for endeavouring to shew their Royalty to their King, and Acting against them, and their illegal Authority. Voting and making a new Seal, and breaking all the Kings old Seals, Privy Signets, of the King's bench, Exchequer, Court of Wards, Admi∣ralty, &c. Beheading of several persons by a Court mar∣tial, against Law and Equity. Putting Arch-Bishop Laud to Death after four years Imprisonment. Their taking the Scotch solemn League and Covenant, for the Ex∣tirpation of Episcopacy, and the alteration of Religion, ••s••••blished by Law, contr••ry to Law, and accord∣ing

to their own illegal and Arbitrary proceedings. With many more Acts of the same nature, which plainly declared to all the World, how far they had deviated from their first more plausible Pretexts. But all this while I say, by the Kings great Concession, in yield∣ing to pass that Act, which wrought him so much Mis∣chief, they seemed to have a shadow of Power, from the King: and acted as an House, tho contrary to the King, the Laws of the Land, the Liberty of the Sub∣ject, and against Equity, Conscience, and Religion.

But now, after the King had been delivered up to them from the Scots, and that they had subdued all his Forces and Garrisons, Ragland Castle in Wales, being the last that held out for his Majesty, then they shewed their power more manifestly, and that their Intentions were to usurp the Regal Authority altogether, having thus far tasted the sweetness of it, and thrived in their Rebellion. On the 4th. of June 1647. a Party of Horse, under Cornet Joyce, seized the King at Holdenby, where he was under restraint by the Parliaments order, and Carried him away to the Army, and thence by them brought to Hampton Court, about the middle of August; where both the Parliament and Army make to him their several unjust Proposals, after the insolent man∣ner of Victors, which the King could in no ways grant, being contrary to his Conscience, his Crown and Dig∣nity. At the same time the Independant Officers of the Army, kept their chief Cabals at Putn••y, where it was proposed among them: That it was not safe for them, nor the Kingdom, to grant any Power to the King: That it was not for them to set up a Power, which God had determined to pull down: That the pow∣er of Kings was grown a burthen to the Nation, and that the reason of all their Distractions in their Coun∣sels, was from their Compliance to save that man of Bood, and to uphold the Tyranny, which God by their many Successes, had declared against. Where also Ma∣jor General Harrison made a speech pressing them to the taking off the King: Who having notice of these wick∣ed

Agitators Actions, makes his escape from Hampton Court, leaving a Letter behind him, intending to get over to the Isl•• of Jersey, but being in the Isle of Wight, he put himself under the Protection of Collonel Hammond a Parliament man, and Governour there; who sending ••otice thereof to the Parliament, they Vote, That he should be continued in the Castle of Cowes: That no Malignants shall stay in the Island: That no Delinquent or Forreigner should be permitted to come to him with∣out the Parliaments leave: That five Thousand pounds should be advanced for his Accommodation, and That t••e•• would consider who should attend his Person.

In the mean time the Independent party of the Army cause a Mutiny, which tho quelled by the Industry of Cromwel and his Son-in-Law Ireton; yet it caused them to alter their Councels, and to joyn with them against the Parliament, and all accommodation whatsoever with the King. The King sends a Letter to the Parliament from the Isle of Wight, dated November, 18. 1647. superscribed to the Speaker of the House of Lords, to be communicated to the House of Commons. In which he granted for Peace-sake, the setling of Pres∣••ytery for three years: And the Militia in the hands of the Parliament during his Reign, with a Proviso by Patent, that then it should return again to his Suc∣cessors; And also that they should have the Choice of his Privy Councellors, and desired earnestly to have with them a personal treaty in London. After a long debate upon this Letter, the Commissioners of Scotland also p••••ssing them to comply with the Kings just desires, on the 26th. of November they concluded, That four Pre∣vious Acts should be drawn up, and sent to the King, to which if he would sign, they Voted, That they then would admit of a personal Treaty with him. These unreasonable Proposals, drawn into form of Acts, were these: First, an Act for raising, settling▪ and main∣taining Forces by Sea and Land, &c. In which they fully and wholly divested the King of the Militia, his 〈◊〉〈◊〉 and Successors for ever, and gave an unlimitted

power to the two houses, to raise what Forces they please, for Land or Sea and of what persons they please, and what Money they please to maintain them. The second was, that all Declarations, Oaths, Proclamations against the Parli∣ament, might be recalled, or against all or any that adher∣ed to them. The third, an Act that those Peers, that were made after the great Seal was carried away from the Parli∣ament, might be made uncapable of sitting in the house of Peers: And lastly, That Power may be given to the two Houses to adjourn themselves as they think fit. By these you may easily perceive, to what height they were come of all unreasonableness. These were presented to the King at Carisbrook Castle in the Isle of Wight, on the 24th. of December 1647: by the Earl of Denby, the Lord Mountague, Lisle, Goodwin, Bunkley, and Kemp, Commissio∣ners from both Houses of Parliament. The King it may well be thought, having no desire to dethrone himself, and enslave his Subjects, refused the Bills, and desired to Treat personally, sending them his reasons in Writing: Whereupon Sr. Tho. wroth, moves the House, That the King, who had Acted like a Mad man, should be secured in some inland Castle, with sure Guards: That Articles of Impeachment should be drawn up against him: That he should be wholly lay'd by, and that they would think of some other Govern∣ment, no matter what, so it were not by Kings or Devils. Then Ireton gravely, and with his Protesting he spake the Sence of many thousand Godly men, who had ven∣tured their Lives with him in the Army, said: That the King in denying those Bills, had deny'd his safety and protection to the People, and that therefore they might justly, and lawfully deny to yield him any fur∣ther Obedience, and that it was fit they should settle the Kingdom without him. Then Cromwell at last, af∣ter a long debate, with an Hypocritical Face, stood up, telling them, of the Valour, Courage, Resolution, and readiness of the Army, to stand by them, and to Live and Dye with them, and that therefore, now the Parliament should by their own Power, Rule and

Govern the Kingdom, and not expect safety any long∣er, or any help from an Obstinate man, whose heart God had hardened, and therefore no more to be trusted, for that his future Reign, would become more insup∣portable, and fuller of Revenge than Justice. That else those men, who had so long defended them, would think themselves betray'd by them, to the Malice and Rage of an irreconcileable Enemy, whom they had sub∣dued for their sakes, and that dispair might teach them, to seek their safety, by some other means, than ad∣hering to them, who would not stick to themselves; and how destructive that resolution might be to them all, he even trembled to think of, and left them to consider. This concluding Menace, from that terrible Bug-bear, very much overawed the House. Upon this they came to Vote, and the Questions being put, they Vot∣ed, No more Addresses or Applications should be made to the King, carrying it in the Affirmative, there being one hundred and forty one Yeas and ninety one Noes. This was also assented to by the Lords and published, Resolved by the Lords and Commons Assembled in Parliament, That no Application or Address be made to the King by a∣ny Person whatsoever without the leave of both Hou∣ses. Resolved by the Lords and Commons, &c. That the Person or Persons, that shall make breach of this Order, shall incur the penalty of high Treason. Re∣solved by the Lords and Commons, &c. That they will receive no more any Message from the King; and do injoyn, that no Person whatsoever, do presume to receive or bring any Message from the King to both or either of the Houses of Parliament, or any other Person.

Upon this comes forth a Declaration from the Army. Among other things they declare, That they are resolv∣ed to stand by the Parliament, in these their Votes concerning the King, and in what shall be necessary for the Prosecution thereof, and for the setling and se∣curing of the Parliament and Kingdom, without the King, and against him, or any other that shall pertake with him. The Parliament also after this, put forth a

publick Declaration, about the beginning of February, 1648. in which were many strange Invectives against the King, and his Government, raking in all the Errors there∣of, and remembring things done before his Reign. They also endeavoured to have fixed on him the Murther of his Royal Father King James, the Rebellion and Massa∣cre of Ireland, and other wicked and horrid Crimes lay'd to his Charge, and almost in every bodies Mouth, so that they were not only Content to take away the Go∣vernment from their King, and to usurp the Royal dig∣nity, but they went about to defame him, and to Mur∣ther his Honour and Innocency, even before they had agreed to take away his Life from his Person, and to make him as odious as they could, in the Eyes of all men; to take off the Odium as much as they could from them∣selves, for what they now intended to do, viz. The murther of their Prince, which began now to be de∣signed by the prevailing Independent Party, who had got the Army on their sides and overawed the rest.

However, they could not carry things so, but that their Intentions began to be seen, altho they had procur∣ed Letters or Addresses of thanks, from several Counties, by their Agents, for their Votes against the King; yet for the most part the peoples Eyes being now every day more and more opened, began to see what a Brat they had nourished up, under the notion of Liberty, wh•• being grown up to it's height, proved that most dreadful Arbitrary, they so much had feared; insomuch, that from Grumbling and Murmuring, the City began to stir, and in several other places, as in Kent, and in Wales, under Lauhorn, Poyer, and Powell; upon this the Commitee of Darby House was Impowred anew, for the suppressing of Tumults and Insurrections. The Insur∣rections were soon quelled, tho not without Blood, by the industry of Cromwel and Ireton, and by the Per∣mission of divine Providence. The Scots by their Com∣missioners, desired to know if they were excepted by the Parliaments Votes of Non-Addresses to the King, which Message caused great debates, and being yet

fearful of disobliging them, at last it was permitted ••••em, to make Addresses to the King: which was not well ••••ken by the Independent Faction in the Army. But ••••e King was now more straitly secured, by Collonel ••••mmond, and he found not that Favour from him he ••••d hoped for, being the Brother of one of his belov∣•••• Chaplains Doctor Hammond: His Servants were re∣••oved from him, and he restrained within the Castle ••••lls, which begot a Pitty and Commiseration of his ••••se, in the breast of several Loyal Subjects within the ••••nd, and especially Captain Burleigh, who had for∣••••rly serv'd him in the Army, and who now made an ••••••empt to rescue the King out of Hammond's hands; b••t miscarrying, he was taken, and on the 10th. of Fe∣b••uary put to death at Winchester, being tryed for High T••eason by Serjeant Wild. Upon this his Majesty put fo••th his Declaration, which begot great Compassion in th•• Hearts of all his Loyal Subjects throughout the King∣dom. But yet they were not able to help him, the Power being out of their Hands. And he suffered a ve∣ry close Confinement, being sequester'd from the Con∣v•••••• of men, which made him apply himself to a more ••••••e and blessed Converse with God, as may be seen by his Excellent meditations, in his Book called 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉, or the Pourtraiture of his Majesty, in 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Solitude and Sufferings, then wrot.

And now the Universities were purged; for having th•• Sword, they resolved to have none of those Gown∣m•••• to plead Gospel for the Kings Authority, and th••••efore all such should be ejected, that knew not 〈◊〉〈◊〉 against Conscience to preach and declaim of their 〈◊〉〈◊〉; to which end the Earl of Pembrook Chancellour o•• ••he University of Oxford, with others as learned as h••••••elf, were sent to purge the University, where they 〈◊〉〈◊〉 forth many learned and honest men, under the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of Ignorant and Scandalous, by which means 〈◊〉〈◊〉 sent packing all such as were not for their turn.

••••ril the 20th. the Duke of York made his escape 〈◊〉〈◊〉 St. James's, in woman apparel, and landed safe at

Dort in Holland; and about the same time, several Peti∣tions came to the Parliament, and especially one from the County of Essex, which supplicate, That the Army might be paid off and Disbanded, and the King admit∣ted to a personal Treaty. Surry and the City of London followed with the like, and the Affections of the Peo∣ple began to appear, and were ready to fly to Arms. The Kentish men being up ten Thousand strong were routed by General Fairfax, the Earl of Norwich who headed them, with five hundred men crossed over the Thames into Essex, and Sr. Charles Lucas joyning him with 200 thousand men, they possessed themselves of Chol∣chester, which became the seat of War and endured a famous Siege. Also at the same time a part of the Na∣vy revolted to the Prince, who having attempted to help his Father, in vain, was forced to retire into Hol∣land, with his Fleet. Then the Earl of Holland, the Earl of Peterborough and others, Head a fresh Insurrecti∣on at Kingston upon Thames, where they were routed, the Earl of Holland taken, and the Lord Francis Villers the Duke of Buckingham's Brother slain.

Affairs standing in this Posture, the Scots are much displeased, tho they had many fair Offers made them by the Parliament, Concerning the Payment of money yet due to them; and on the 24th, day of July they pass∣ed an Ordinance, to establish the Presbyterian Govern∣ment in England and Ireland, under Classical, Provincial, and Parochial Assemblies, to please them; yet all would not do, for they Voted in Scotland, a War with Eng∣land, and published a Declaration, wherein they pro∣pose: That the King may come to London, or to some of his Houses near, with safety: That those who had Carried him away might make Satisfaction, or be pu∣nished for it: That the Army under the Lord Fairfax might be disbanded: That Presbytery be setled and Se∣ctaries punished: That all members of the House might be restored. Upon this Berwick was surprised, Forces came out of Ireland, and many rise in the North for the King: Carlisle is seized, and their Forces increa∣sed

under Sr. Marmaduke Langdale, Sr. Thomas Glenham, Sr. Philip Musgrave, and others, to the number of three Thousand Horse and foot. Sr. Marmaduke Langdale is made their General: And on the 13th, of July, the Scots enter with an Army into England, under Duke Hamilton, with whom Langdale joyns, and beats Lambert at Apple∣by: Several places declared for the King, and all things seemed in an hopeful way, when Cromwell having qui∣eted wales, marches with his Army to Preston in Lan∣cathire, to give a stop to Hamilton, who was about twen∣ty Thousand strong, with the English: Lambert joyns with Cromwell, and make up a Body of about twelve Thousand; on the 17th. of August both Armies Face one another, and the battel being begun on the English side, after two hours dispute, the Scots gave ground, and were most fiercely pursued by the English, and To∣tally routed, multitudes of them being taken, but Hamil∣ton escaped to Nantwich, with three Thousand horse, where the Countrey being up in Armes seized upon most of them, and at last Hamilton himself was taken at uloxeter, by the Lord Gray of Grooby; the Scots En∣sigm, Cornets, and Colours, then taken, were afterwards hung up in Westminster Hall. Sr. Marmaduke Langdale was also taken, and Cromwell improving his Victory, mar∣ches towards Monroe, who was coming with a reserve of six Thousand Scots, but upon Hamilton's overthrow, had order to return into Scotland, which they did, but the Anti-Hamiltonian party in Scotland, under Argile, which were the stricter sort of Presbyters, invited Cromwell in∣to Scotland, which the laying hold on, to smooth his way he put forth a Declaration, severely prohibiting any Souldier, under pain of Death, to take either Mo∣ney, Horses, Goods, Victuals, or any other thing, or any ways to abuse the People. He put such a terror among the Scots, that they all presently submit∣ted, and agreed to disband their Armies, and to render up to him Berwick, and Carlile, which were in their Hands: That a Parliament should be called in Scotland, for the setling Religion, and composing their diffe∣rences,

and also that none that had been in the last In∣gagements against England, should be chosen of this new Parliament, or into their general Assembly. Thus having setled Scotland to his mind, he returns into Eng∣land. Upon his Victory against Hamilton, Colchester being driven to the utmost extremity, was surrendred, and the two valiant Gentlemen contrary to Faith given, Sr. Charles Lucas, and Sr. George Lisle, shot to Death, and the Earl of Norwich, Lord Capel, and others sent Pri∣soners to London. While these things were in doing, there had been some Attempts made towards the pri∣vate murthering of the King, which was made known to the Parliament, who took some Examinations there∣upon; but nothing to any purpose done in it, he being now look'd upon as a Tyrant, and suffered openly to be so called daily, with many other most opprobrious Spee∣ches, both against his person and Government, which the Parliament took no notice of, but had made an Or∣der in April, before: That any three of their Com∣mitte-men at Darby House, should have Power to Im∣prison and sequester, all such as shall actually adhere to any, that shall raise or endeavour to raise, my Tumults or Insurrections, or shall so much as speak or publish a∣ny thing reproachful of the Parliament or their proceed∣ings; so that you see they had tyed up mens Tongues, from speaking against themselves, without the least re∣straint of reviling their King, and, for every light Word, a free born Subject of England, was made an offender, and lyable to be ruined, at the Pleasure of three Arbi∣trary men of their Committee, absolutely against that known Maxim of our Law, Nemo imprisonetur aut dis∣seis••tur nisi per legale judicium parium suorum. No man shall be imprisoned, or disseised of his Property, but by the lawful judgment of his Peers; that is, by a jury of twelve men. But what signified Magna Charta, Petiti∣on of Right, the Ancient Laws of the Land, to these Men, who had trampled the Imperial Crown under their feet, and usurp'd more than ever rightful Monarch, or the most Arbitrary of our Kings ever Claim'd? And had

raised upon the People, for the maintainance of this unnatural War, and towards the enslaving of them∣selves, about three Millions of pounds sterling Per annum, which was six times more than ever the most rapacious of our Kings had raised on the People, besides the vast Incomes of the Kings revenue, Sequestrations, and Com∣positions.

About the third of August, the Prince (now our So∣veraign) sent Letters to the City, Expressing his good affection to Peace, and to the whole City, and his En∣deavours to vindicate his fathers Liberty and just Prero∣gative, and Rights; and to restore to the People their Laws, Liberties, and Property, to free them from Bon∣dage, and to ease them of the Burthen of Excise, and Taxes, to settle Religion, and to reduce all things in∣to their proper Channel. This Letter was accompanied with others, and a Declaration to the same purpose, all which were Communicated to the Parliament. But there, in Requital, it was vehemently urged by some, That the Prince might be declared a Traitor and a ••e∣bel, but others stood up and gave several Reasons (too long here to rehearse) to the Contrary; and so it pass∣ed over at this time. On the 7th. of August an ordi∣nance passed, for erecting a new Militia in every Coun∣ty, and particularly for the County of Wilts, Commi∣ssioners being named, who had power to raise what men they pleased, to Arm them, and to fine defaulters ten pound a Man, and twenty dayes Imprisonment, and to levy four hundred pound a Week, upon that one Coun∣ty, besides the ordinary Taxes, and free Quarter. O brave Liberty and Freedom!

Whilst the Army were employed in reducing the Scots, and Royal party, Petitions were continually sent from several Counties, to the Parliament, all tending to ••he same effect, the disbanding the Army, easing the people of their Burthens, and a personal Treaty with ••he King. The City of London Petitions also for the ••ame, and to have their imprisoned Citizens released, ••hich were chiefly Aldermen Langham and Bunce, and

their Recorder ••lin. The Lords had, it seems, not ••••••¦curred readily with the Commons, in some of 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Votes, upon which it was moved in the House, to ta•••• away the Lords negative Voyce So early Arbitrary began to shew it self in the highest degree, nothing now seeming too great for the Commons: For a c••rtain lawyer, undertook to make good; That the House of Commons (being the Representative of all the People) had power to Act without the Lords, for the safety of the People, in case the Lords deserted their Trust. Here was a ground lay'd for a future subverting the Foundation of all Parliaments, and how well they im∣proved this Doctrine we shall see hereafter. The Lords and Commons, had lay'd by the King, and now the Commons were for laying aside the Lords, and the next thing to be expected will be to see the Army and their Grandees to lay aside the Commons, and to rule alone by themselves, usurping both the Kings Soveraign and Governing power, the Parliaments Legislative power, and the Judges Indicative power, and so Esta∣blish their Oligarchy, or else it may be expected, that one more powerful than the rest, should usurp all the Power into his own hand, and become a most absolute and Arbitrary Tyrant, as it hapned to come to pass.

I cannot pass over another excellent mark of strange Arbitrariness, against all Law and Right, Moral as well as Civil, in their sequestring the Estate of one Wall a Delinquent as they called him, after his Death, and tak∣ing it from his Wife and Children gave it to one of their Creatures, who sued for the same, tho it was ar∣gued against their unjust Proceedings, That in the case of the highest Treasons, and of Felony, no man was Condemned after his Death, because he was not then in being, to Answer for himself, and there could be no proceeding in Law against Non Ens: Nay if a Fellon tho alive, will stand mute, he shall not forfeit his Lands, because he wants Answer, tho he loses his Life for Contempt of the Law. Yet the Godly party prevail∣ed,

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and they bestowed the Sequestration of the said 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Lands, tho dead, on another, with a Proviso, that 〈◊〉〈◊〉 ••hould not be drawn into Example.

Cromwell gives the Parliament, by a Letter to their Speaker, an account of his Victories, with Admonitions to them, not to hate God's people, who were as the Apple of his Eye, and for whom Kings were to be re∣proved, That they should fulfil the end of their Magi∣stracy, that all that would live quietly and Peaceably might have Countenance from them, and that they who were implacable, might be speedily destroyed out of the Land. And to prepare the way for their Destructi∣on, they ordered: That an Ordinance be Penned, and brought into the House of Commons, to try all such by Mar∣tial Law, in the City of London, as shall be found to Plot, Design, or Contrive any thing, to endanger the Parliament or City: Here again; you may see all the Common Laws of the Land laid aside, and Martial Law made use of, in the Head City of the Land. Which was then no Gar∣rison, and by order of these Parliamentarians, and As∣sertors of the peoples Liberties, Rights, and Priviledges.

But however, the Army being at a distance from the City, subduing the Kings Friends, and the Parliaments Foes, the Independent Party in the House of Commons, were not so prevalent, but that the other Party took Cou∣rage; and appearing, began to come more of themselves, encouraged by several Petitions out of the Countrey, for a Treaty with the King, upon which they became inclinable, and begun to set themselves to that Pious work, tho hindred all that could be, by the Clamours, Speeches, and Behaviour of the Independants. And thereupon the Earl of Middlesex, Sir John Hippesly, and Mr. Bulkley, were sent to the King, to let him know their Resolutions; who returned, related the Kings rea∣dy Compliance thereto, as a thing he much desired; up∣on which they Vote, That the Votes of Non-Addresses should be repealed; That the King might send for such Per∣sons, as were necessary for him in the Treaty; That he should be in a state of Freedom; That five Lords and ten Commo∣ners,

be chosen Commissioners to Treat with the King at New∣port in the Isle of Wight. These Votes were sent to the King, and Commissioners chosen; for the Lords, the Earls of Northumberland, Salisbury, Pembroke, Middlesex, and the Lord Say: for the Commons were, Lord Wain∣man, Mr. Peirpoint, Sr. Henry Vain the younger, Sr. Har∣bottle Grimston, Sr. Jo. Pots, Mr. Brown, Mr. Crew, Mr. Bulkly, Mr. Hellis, and Mr. Glyn. Their Propositions were not much easier than their former, to which the King gave very Satisfactory Answers, conceding to ma∣ny things, for Peace sake, against his Prerogative; the greatest Difficulty being the business of Episcopacy, which the King was unwilling should be wholly abolished. And now it was very likely, that the King and Parlia∣ment had agreed, and a full peace had insued, but in the mean time many Officers of the Army held their Cabals at Windsor; where they were Contriving the De∣struction of the King, and the Dissolution of the Par∣liament; which Cabals they also continued at London, and other places, under the name of Agitators in be∣half of the Army. These were framing a Government among themselves, and drew up a Remonstrance, shew∣ing: That they were the Body of the People of England: That their Interest was the publick Interest of the People; That the People were the only Competent Judges of their own safety: That the supream Magistrates were the People Armed with supream Authority, and with the Sword. These persons concluded among themselves; that some should be chosen out of the Army, to repre∣sent the whole Body: These not to exercise the Le∣gislative power, but only to draw up the Foundation of a Government; which the people were to consent to, which consent or Agreement of the People, should be above Law: That in the Agreement a day should be set for the Dissolution of the Parliament; and this to be drawn up in a Remonstrance from the Army. This was incouraged by Major general Harrison, who urg∣ged, there could be no safety for them nor the Nation, but by the cutting off the Kings Head, and the tho∣rowly

purging at least, if not the Dissolving the Parlia∣ment. Upon this the Army, now wholly at Cromwell's Devotion,

sends up a Petition to the Commons, for Justice to be done on the King, as a Capital Offender. That the Prince of Wales and Duke of York be Sum∣mon'd by a Day, and if they come not in, to be de∣clared incapable of the Succession and Government, and if they come in, to be proceeded against for Satis∣faction: That the Revenues of the Crown be sequest∣red: That publick Justice might be done against the Actors in the late Wars, against the Parliament: That they may be paid their Arrears, and the Country eas∣ed of free Quarters; and lastly, that a Period be put to this Parliament; and care taken for the Electing of future Parliaments, and that no King be admitted for the future.

Upon this the Army, that they might once more get the King into their Clutches, cause their General Fair∣fax, to write a Letter to Collonel Hammond, command∣ing him to deliver up the King to Collonel Ewer, who obeying, Ewer carries the King out of the Isle of Wight to Hurst Castle, on the 30th. of November: This force gave the Parliament an ill Resentment, and they Vote, That the seizing the Person of the King and Carrying him Prisoner to Hurst Castle, was without the Advice and Consent of the Houses. The Treaty thus broke off, and both the Lords and Commons, Vote, That the King's Concessi∣ons was a sufficient Ground for Peace. But the Army come up to London, and quarter at White-Hall, St. James's and the ••ews, resolving to hinder the Parliaments pro∣ceedings with the King, and for that end they seized a∣bout forty Members coming to the House, and com∣mitted them to Guards, in several places at Westminster, and then accused ninety odd Members for inviting in the Scots, and required they might be excluded the House. The House of Commons troubled at these Pro∣ceedings, Adjourned for three days, and in the mean time the Army go on in making a Model of Govern∣ment: In which it was agreed, That in April following,

[illustration]

The Army Entring the City

The Rump & dreggs of y^e house of Commons Sitting after y^e Army had turnd y^e good members out

Oliver seeking God whil•• the King: is murthered by his order

Bradshaw the Taylor, and y^e Hangman keeper of the Libertyes of England

that Parliament should be Dissolved, and that new Re∣presentatives of the people should be chosen, Consisting of three hundred Men, half of which number should be suffi∣cient to make a Law: and that in the Intervalls of Parlia∣ment, the Nation should be Governed by a Council of State. These, with some other the like Stuff, was to be called the Agreement of the People.

This force being put upon the House, and new mould∣ed, driving away all that were not for their turn, be∣sides many others for fear absented themselves, the rest (who afterwards obtained the name of Rump, or Rum∣pers, being the Relicks of a greater Body) met again, and submitting to the Power of the Army to please them, Vote: That no Message be received from the King on pain of Treason: That the General should take Care of his Person, and that a Charge of High Treason should be drawn up against him: Having now fully concluded to destroy him.

Thus have we briefly drawn to your View, the first Lineaments of an Arbitrary Government, and Tyrannical Usurpation, in very short Draughts, shewing however the ways and means, whereby these Men, or Junto of U∣surpers, came by their Power and Authority, overthrow∣ing the very Foundation of our Ancient and most glorious Monarchy, under the Notion of Liberty, and setting up a Tyrannical Democracy, or rather Oligarchy, under the Regiment of a few selected Fellows, who called them∣selves the Parliament, and the Representatives of the Nation, and in whom they pretend all Right of Power and Magistracy was to be placed.

The very shadow of all legal Power was now gone, and this unparallel'd force put upon the Parliament, in excluding the Major part of their Members, by the Ar∣bitrary will of Oliver Cromwel, and his M••••midons; con∣trary to all Law and Right, took from them the very Name of a Parliament. But they care not for that, they shadow their impious Acts, under that venerable Denomination, and having now, as they thought, got into the Kingly throne, by the power of the Army, and

the Sword, imagined they should keep it, when all this while, not having the Command of the Army, but be∣ing ridden by the general Officers thereof, who designed, as soon as they had done their work, to pay them their Wages by dismissing them, were but as the Cats foot, made use of by the Monkey, for the raking the Chesnut out of the Fire, the benefit of which they intended to take themselves, and this was the Murthering of their lawful Soverain, whom they had deposed, which was the next main Design driven on by the Independent Army, and their Dromidaries this Junto of Men.

We have seen these Men grown up into full Strength of Arbitrariness, and got into the Throne of their So∣veraign, we will now proceed, to Trace them by their Steps, in the Exercise of this their Tyrannical Usurpa∣tion; which we shall find to be according to the same unlawful Progress, and to be of the same bloody Com∣plexion; for it is a certain Maxim, That what Power is got by unlawful means, must be kept by the same unlawful ways, notwithstanding the specious pretences of Liberty, and setling the Kingdom.

This Junto of Men being met, and Voted as we have declared, That no more Address should be made to the King, nor any Message received from him, they take Care in the next place, having got into the Saddle, to keep it; and to make the World believe, they had a right to it, if they could: for now an Ordinance was drawn up, that the Lords and Commons of England do declare. That by the Fundamental Laws of the Land, it is Treason in the King of England, to levy War against the Parliament. This preparative in making the King a Trans∣gressor, and in placing the Supream Power in the Peo∣ple, whose Representatives they were, was in Order to their Design of Murthering the King. This being sent up to the Lords, who denyed to consent to it, the Commons grow very angry, and finding the Lords to be yet an Obstacle to their bloody Intentions, they Vote: That all Members of Committees, should Act in any Ordinance by them made, without the Lords Concurrance,

the People having by God, the full power Originally in them∣selves, and therefore what ever they enact is Law; which passed Nemine Contradicente.

The Army still continuing their Guards upon the House, keeping out any of those Members were not of their Party, and imprisoning them, they had much ••doe to make an House, and sometimes it was Noon 〈◊〉〈◊〉 they could get forty men together, without which i•• could not be an House; so very Scrupulous were these grand Hypocrites, to keep up a Face of Authority, in these minute Circumstances, who in the great Funda∣mentals had broke in two all Bonds, Obligations, Oaths, and Laws.

The Army now the Lords of all, Garrison Black-Fryars, and St. Paul's, turning the house of God into a Stable, and defiling it with Dung, robbing divers Halls (which they call'd borrowing) of several sums of Mo∣ney, by their Saint-like Prerogative, accounting the rest Egyptians. In the mean time, the secluded Mem∣bers, still imprisoned, put forth a Declaration against this most horrid violence of the Army, done to their Persons, and to the Fundamental Laws of the Land, the Rights of the People, and the priviledges of Parliament: this was dated 11th. December, 1648. This being complained of to the House, both Lords and Commons put forth a Declaration against it, where∣in they declare, That the Declaration put forth, by those Members of the House of Commons, Excluded the House, in which was these Words, viz: That all Acts, Ordinances, Votes, and Proceedings of the House of Commons, made since the 6th, of December or hereafter to be made, duering the restraint and forcible Seclusion from the House, and the Continuance of the Armies force upon it, are no way Obligatory, but void and null, to all Intents and Purposes; was false, Scandalous, and Seditious, and tended to destroy the visible, and fundamental Govern∣ment of the Kingdom. And therefore ordered the printed Paper to be suppressed, and that all who had an hand in it, to be uncapable to bear Office, or to have any

trust, place, or Authority in the Kingdom, or to fit as Members of either House of Parliament. Here again you see a most bold stroke of Arbitrary Sway, and what Noses of Wax they made of all priviledes of Parliaments: O most excellent Conservators of the Liberties of the Nation!

The next thing they fell upon was the unvoting of all former Votes of the House which tended to any ac∣commodation with the King, and renewed again their old Vote of Non-Addresses in Terminis, and that the Treaty with him in the Isle of Wight was highly dis∣honourable, and apparently Destructive to the good of the Kingdom. Thus forty or fifty of this Independent Junto undid, what was before done by at least three hundred and forty before.

December 14th. Major General Brown, Sr. William Waller, Sr. John Clotworthy, Major General Massy, Commissary General Copley, were all imprisoned by a Council of War at White-Hall, tho Members of Parliament, upon which, they put forth also a new Declaration, or Protestation, in the name of themselves, and all the Free-born peo∣ple of England, against the violent and illegal Proceed∣ings of the General and his Council of War, against the Laws of the Land, and Liberties of the People, the Rights and Priviledges of Parliament; and that it was an higher Usurpation, and exercise of an Arbitrary and unlawful Power, than hath been heretofore pretend∣ed, or attempted by this, or any other King, or other Power whatsoever, within this Realm.

About this time came forth a Paper from the Ar∣my, called the Agreement of the People; being almost word for word, the same which formerly had been presented in the Year 1647. by the Agitators of the Army, and one Gifford a Jesuite, busie in promoting it, and then condemned by the Commons, as matter Destructive to the beings of Parliaments, and to the Fundamental Government of the Kingdom; and caused General Fairfax to condemn one of these Agitators, who promoted it, and caused him to be shot to Death at Ware. This was ill timed, and the business not yet Ripe

enough, and was a second time by the Vote of the same House condemned, as Seditious and Contemptuous and Destructive, &c. and several were imprisoned up∣on it; but now the same being again obtruded upon this Junto, they closed with it, and followed it's Dictates, which were briefly: That the people should agree, or did agree together, to take away the present Government, by King▪ Lords and Commons, which they were now going about, as the Armies Journy-men, as fast as they could.

And now Oliver Cromwell every day begins to grow more Conspicuous, insomuch as several Lords laying a∣side their Honour and Greatness begin to Court and fawn upon him, and servilely to attend on him and do him Homage. The next thing the Lords and Com∣mons do, is to Curb the City, whom they suspect; and to hinder them from a free Election of their City Officers; another mark of Arbitrary Power: For which end many Exceptions are made, for those that were to be elected into any Office, that none who had bore Arms for the King, in the first or second War, or that had joyned with the Scots, or had subscribed the En∣gagement 1647. or were aiding in any Tumult, or Insurrection in the City, with other Restrictions, by which they brought all those under, that they believed not fit for their wicked purposes. This was thought yet too short by Skippon, who moved it to have also, added, That none might bear Office that promoted the Treaty with the King, or endeavoured to have him brought to London: Which according to the desire of the Saints was ordered as an Additional Ordinance; So that you now see, the very endeavouring of a Peace and Settle∣ment of the Nation, was become a notorious Crime, and made a person incapable of bearing any Office in the City.

And to make themselves sure one of another, as Oaths, Declarations, and Protestations could make these Usurpers, they cause their Members to sign a new P••o∣testation, against the Votes for a Treaty in the Isle of

Wight, and especially against that Vote which much troubled them: That his Majesties Answers to the Proposi∣tions of both Houses, were a ground for the two Houses to Proceed to a Settlement. This, tho formerly thought by themselves to tend to Faction, was now readily per∣formed at the Armies request: Four of their imprison∣ed Members had been released, and now sixteen more were sent for before Ireton, and by him discharged: Telling them it was the General's pleasure, they should be released, provided they attempted nothing against the Actings of the present Parliament and Army. But the Gentlemen would pass no such Engagement, which seeing, he gave order for their release, but with this Menace, That if they made any Disturbance it should be at their peril.

The business they had now in hand, and were Re∣solved on, viz: The King's murther, must be cloaked under a Religious Covering, as if they were about some Pious Work; and therefore they mock God, as well as delude man, and keep a Fast at St. Margarets Westminster where some few Lords and some of the Com∣mons assembled, to whom the Pulpit merry Andrew, Hugh Peters preached: Moses leading the Children of Israel out of Egypt, being the Subject which he applyed to the General and the Leaders of the Army, now lead∣ing the people out of Egyptian Bondage; and after some t••me, as Ridiculously as profanely hiding himself in the Pulpit, he starts up, and tells them he had it now by Revelation, That the Army was to root out Monar∣chy, not only in England, but in all other Kingdoms, and so should bring all people out of that Egyptian Bondage: That that Army, was the Stone cut out of the Mountain, which was to dash all the Powers of the earth to pieces: With other Blasphemous Speeches of the like Nature.

Mr. Prin was yet kept a Prisoner at the Kings-head-Inn in the Strand, from whence he wrot a Letter to Fair∣fax, to know by what Authority he was thus kept a Prisoner; he be••ing a Parliament man, and a Free-born Subject of England. The General, who was but Chip

in Porridge, and knew little of what was done by Cromwell and Ireton, sent him word, That he thought he had been released with the rest, and that he would send to know what they had against him. Upon which Mr. Prin puts forth a Declaration, shewing the horrid Injustice of their Proceedings against the Mem∣bers of Parliament: and against and Contrary to all the Laws of the Land, and the Liberty of the Subject.

The Council of War in the mean time, to humble his Majesty, ordered, That all State and Ceremony should be forborn to the King, and his Attendants lessen'd. And now having made way for the most horrid and Bloody de∣sign that ever was heard of, the Motion is made in this usurping House, to proceed to the Tr••al of the King, as a Capital Offender: When the grand Impostor Crom∣well stood up, and said; That if any man moved this upon Design, he should think him the greatest Tray∣tor in the World; but since Providence and Necessity had cast them upon it, he should pray to God to bless their Councells. And so on the 28th. of December, 1648. Thomas Scot, brought in the Ordinance for the Tryal of the King, being read and Committed three several times, and all the Commissioners names inserted, Consisting of divers Gentlemen and Soldiers. This Ordinance be∣ing pass'd the Junto, they send it up to the Lords House, by the Lord Grey of Grooby, together with their Vote formerly made, Viz. Resolved, &c. That the Lords and Commons assembled in Parliament; do declare, and adjudge, That by the Fundamental Laws of the Realm, it is Treason in the King of England for the time to come, to levy War against the Parliament and Kingdom of England. The house of Lords debate the matter, and first the De∣claratory Vote; against which, the Earls of Manchester and Northumberland, with others, spake, and declared, There was none nor could be any such Fundamental Law in England, whereby the King could be a Traytor, by leaving War against his People; and that thus to declare Treason by an Ordinance, when no law was extant to judge it by, was most unreasonable. Upon

which the Lords cast out this Ordinance and Vote, and adjourned themselves for seven days. This proceed∣ing of the Lords gave them no small trouble, and stirr'd up the wrath of some of the Zealots, who threatned to hang a Pad-lock on the Lords door; and sending up to search their journal Book, they found the Lords had made these two Votes: That they do not Concur to the said declaratory Vote. And Secondly, That they rejected the Ordinance for the Tryal of the King. Upon which these men resolving to be rid of the Lords, as well as of King, they Vote, That they should Act without them, (as well they might, according to their own Law) That all Authority was sounded in the People, and that they be∣ing the Representatives of the People, all Authority lay in them. Some of them were for Impeaching the Lords, for favouring the grand Delinquent of the Land, as they called the King. And now to make all sure on their sides, that they may Act legally, On the 4th. of Janua∣ry they Vote; That the People are, under God, the Origi∣nal of all just Power. That the Commons of England in Parliament assembled, being chosen by, and representing the People, have the Supreme Power of this Nation. That whatsoever is declared or Enacted for Law, by the House of Commons assembled in Parliament, hath the force of Law. This makes clear Work, and by this our Arbitrary U∣surpers may do what they will, and cut off their Kings Head according to their own Position, legally; what need of Kings, Lords, Laws, Rights, Liberties, Pro∣perties, or fundamental Government, when the Arbi∣trary Consciences of such men, may serve instead of all, and conclude thereby all the People of England, tho they declare against it, and tho opposed by the King or House of Peers? And thus, notwithstanding the re∣jection of the Lords, these Commons pass their Ordi∣nance, and declaratory Vote by the name of An Act of Parliament of the House of Commons (which was never before heard of) for the Tryal of Charles Stewart, King of England. This being objected to Hugh Peters, that there was no President or Example, for the Tryal of

a King, by a judicial Court, he Prophanely applyed: That there was never any President before the Virgin Mary, of a Womans conceiving and bringing forth a Child, without accompanying with a Man, therefore they might walk without President, for this was an Age to make Examples and Presidents.

There was yet one thing that passed these men, which they had not foreseen, which was, That it was a very improper thing, to make use of the Kings Seal, where∣in he is styled King of England, &c. by the Grace of God; to seal a Commission against him for his Tryal. They were now in hast, and could not stay for a new one, which they had not as yet thought on, therefore it was concluded, the Commissioners should proceed up∣on the Ordinance, without any Commission under Seal, and that every Commissioner should set his own Hand and Seal, to the Instruments of their Proceedings. All things being now in a readiness for the Tryal, The King▪ is taken from Hurst Castle, and brought to Winchester, thence to Farnham, thence to Winsor, and thence to St. James, on the 19th. day of January. And they had caused for the greater Solemnity of the Business, their Serjeant Dandy, who was appointed Serjeant at Arms to the Commissioners, for the Tryal of his Ma∣jesty, to proclaim it openly in Westminster-Hall, with his Mace on Horse back, with six Trumpets and seve∣ral Officers attending, all bare, That the Commissio∣ners were to sit to morrow, and that all those, who had any thing to say, against Charles Stewart King of England, might be heard. This was done in like manner in Cheap-side, and at the Royal Exchange. The same day the House Voted their great Seal to be broken, and ordered a new one to be made.

Upon this Mr. Prin, sends to the Junto a Memento, of their unpresidented Proceedings, Complaining of the force and Violence put upon their fellow Members, warning them from Acting, Consulting, or ordaining a∣ny Act or Ordinance without Concurrence of their fel∣low-Members, being Arbitrary and against Law, and

that the secluded Members, not only declared against such Proceedings, but more especially against this hor∣rid Act of theirs for the Tryal of the King, shewing them, That by the common Law, and by the Statute of 25. Ed. 3. and all other Acts concerning Treason it is high Treason for any man to Compass or Contrive the Death of the King, or his eldest Son, tho never Executed: That they were also bound to the Contrary, by their Oath of All••giance, from which no Power could absolve them. That they had in above an hun∣dred Declarations and Ordinances, in the name of the Parliament professed; That they never intended the least hurt, injury, or Violence to the Kings person, his Crown, Dignity, or Posterity, with several other things, very pressing and full, as may be seen at large in the printed Paper: but all was in vain, for they were resolved on the Business; tho they could give no kind of colourable Reason for their Actings. This Me∣mento was seconded with a Declaration and Protestation, signed the 19th. of January, by the said Prin and Cle∣ment Walker, another of the secluded Members, which ran very much after the same Tenure, and absolutely Protesting against the Junto's Actings and Proceedings, declared against the illegal Act of Erecting an high Court of Justice, and usurping a Power against all Law, and without all President, to try, depose, and bring to Capital punishment, the King, and to dis-inherit his Posterity, &c. But at the same time the Officers of the Army, had contrived and ordered two Godly Petiti∣ons, to be presented to them, viz: For the abolishing Tythes, and the Repealing the Act for the Banishment of the Jews.

And now Oliver and his Privado Officers, having brought their Work to this readiness, are fasting and praying as hard as they can, no doubt for the Success of it, tho they put another Face on the matter, and said, it was for Direction and Counsel. And now it was, and not before, that this great Usurper of the ••onarchy, and Liberties of the people, began to lay the

great Design of steping into the Soveraignty, and lay∣ing the Foundation of his Tyrannical reign, by the Death and Murther of the King; For the private Of∣ficers, both from the King, and his Friends, and from the Prince himself, in this exigent, to save the Life of his Father, were not small; but he that now aimed at all, would not be content with a portion of justly ac∣quired greatness, and perhaps he was not sufficiently as∣sured of the Mercy of the Prince he had so highly of∣fended, as that he could be able to forgive all those great Crimes he was guilty of; but that either himself, or his Posterity might remember them to his Prejudice, since all he was able to do towards his Majesties Restau∣ration, was but what in Duty and Conscience he was bound to do. But what ever insti••ations he had, be∣sides those of the Devil, he was not to be shaken, tho attempted by a Kinsman of his, and of his own Name, who (as reported) was sent either from the Prince himself, then at the Hagu••, or from the States of Hol∣land, with Credential Letters, and a Blank sealed with the Kings and Princes Signets, and confirmed by the States, for Cromwell to write his own Conditions in, if he would preserve the Life of the King. This found him at his House recluse, with his Privadoes at their Prayers, (as given out) but to what God we may easi∣ly Imagine. The business being urgent, and the Kings Martyrdom approaching, the Gentleman with some di∣fficulty got to the private Speech of him, to whom he very fully laid open the Hainousness of the Fact he was going about, and what an Odium it was about to cast on the English Nation abroad, and withal let him un∣derstand what Terms he had to offer him, and that he might now make himself,* 1.1 his Fa∣mily, and Posterity for ever hap∣py and Honourable; otherwise he would bring such an Ignoimny on the whole Generation, that no time would be able to delete: Cromwell after his canting way,

shifted it off from himself, and put the Act upon the Army and Parliament, declaring he had sought God very much in the Business, but as yet had no return of his Fasting and Prayers about it, therefore he desired till night to consider of it, and promised that he should hear from him before he went to Bed; and according∣ly, about Twelve or One of the Clock, the Gentleman expecting his Answer, he sent him word, That he might return, for he and his Officers had been seeking God, and that now it was Resolved, the King must dye: this was but a night or two before the King's Murther.

On the 20th. day of January, 1648. being Saturday, these bloody Commissioners met, called an high Court of Justice, for the Tryal of the King, who was brought before them, and with much Patience, and sometimes smiling, he heard their long Charge; but denying the Jurisdiction of the Court, refused to plead, requiring them to shew by what Law or Authority, besides their unjust Usurpation, or power of the Sword, he was brought before them who were his Subjects. I shall not trouble the Reader with any farther Relation of this Tryal, it being at large so often printed; nor with the Names of the Judges and Officers of this pretended Court, it being to be had in every Booksellers shop: I intending in these Collections only a brief Narrative of these Usurpers Proceedings, that the World might be∣hold the true Picture of Arbitrary Government, and Tyrannical rule, and not an exact Chronicle or History of those times, tho I would not omit any Material thing that may give Satisfaction or Delight to the Rea∣der. I shall observe that as an ill Omen, the Silver head of the King's Staff dropt off, as the Charge was read∣ing, which the King wondring at and seeing none so Officious as to take it up, he stoop'd himself and taking it up put it into his Pocket. At his going from the Court looking very austerely about him without moving his Hat, he pointed with his Staff to the Sword, and said; I do not fear that. As he went along the Hall some Cry'd out Justice, Justice, and others, God save the King.

On Sunday, Cromwell, Bradshaw, and the rest of the Commissioners kept a Fast at White-Hall, where preach∣ed Joshuah Sprigg, whose Text was, He that sheds-Man's blood by Man shall his Blood be shed. Then Mr. Foxley, whose Text was, Judge not lest you be Judged. Lastly, Hugh Peters whose Text was: I will Bind their Kings in Chains, and their Nobles in Fetters of Iron. And thus by their wick∣ed application of the word of God, they endeavoured to justifie their most Execrable Murther of their Law∣ful King. There was by some, who durst to do any thing against these Cruel and powerful men, certain Pa∣pers scattered about, in which were several Queries; as, Whether a King of three Kingdoms, could be Con∣demned by one Kingdom alone, without the Consent or Concurrence of the other Kingdoms? Whether a King if try'd, ought not to be try'd by his Peers? And whether he could be said to have any such in his Kingdom? Whe∣ther if a King were Tryable, he ought not to be tryed in full Parliament, of Lords and Commons? Whether the 8th. part of the Members of the Commons meeting in the House, under the force of the Army, the rest being forcibly restrained from sitting, can by any Pre∣text of Law or Justice erect a Court for the Tryal of the King? And whether this could be properly called a Court of Justice, without the great Seal of England? Whether that those men who by several Remonstrances, Speeches, and Actions, have publickly declared them∣selves Enemies to the King, can either in Law or Con∣science be his Judges, when it is Exception enough for the basest Felon to any Jury-man, to hinder him from being his Judge? Whether this most illegal and Arbi∣trary Tryal of the King, by an high Court of Justice, may not prove a most Dangerous inlet, to absolute Ty∣ranny, and bloody Butchery, and every mans Life be at the Arbitrary will of his Enemies, erected into a Court of Conscience without limits or bounds?

But words are nothing, and these paper Arms, tho furnished with the highest Reason, could not move these obdurate Men, who persisted in their bloody Business,

driven on by the secret and forcible Machinations of Oliver and his Cabal. The second day being Monday the 22d. of January, the Court met again, and the So∣licitor Cook urged extreamly for judgment against the Prisoner, unless he would own the Authority of the Court; which the King constantly denyed to do, and offered his reasons against them, but they would not be heard. The 3d. day, being January 23d. the King was brought again before the Court, who had in the Painted Chamber the day before, Resolved, That the King should not be suffered to argue the Courts Jurisdiction, and had ordered, That in case he offer'd to dispute the Autho∣rity of the Court, that the President should let him know that he ought to rest satisfied with this Answer: That the Commons of England assembled in Parliament, have Constituted this Court, whose Power may not, nor should be per∣mitted, to be disputed by him. And that in case he should refuse to answer, or acknowledge the Court, the Lord President should let him know, his Contumacy should be recorded. But the King still persisted in the denyal of their Authority, upon which the Clark reads, Charles Stewart King of England, you are accused in the behalf of the Commons of England, of divers high Crimes and Treasons, which Charge hath been read unto you; the Court now requires you to give your positive and final Answer, by way of Confession or denial of the Charge. But the King told them he could not acknowledge a new Court, set up contrary to the Priviledges of the People, to alter the fundamental Laws of the Land. The 4th. and last day was the 27th. of January, 1648. where ap∣peared about fifty six of those Commissioners, who sate when judgment was given against the King by their Pre∣sident Bradshaw But the King having moved to be heard, before the Lords and Commons, in the painted Chamber, promising after that to abide the judgement of the Court, they withdrew for half an hour, and returning, they told the King This was but another denial of the Courts jurisdiction, and therefore if he had no more to say, they would proceed to Judgement. Up∣on

this, after Bradshaw had made a long Speech, endea∣vouring to justifie their Proceedings on this false point: That the People are the supream Power, whom the Commons represented, he commanded the Clark to read the Sentence, which was drawn up in Parchment, in these words.

Whereas the Commons of England in Parliament, have appointed them an High Court of Justice, for the try∣ing of Charles Stewart King of England, before whom he had been three times convented, and the first time a Charge of high Treason, and other Crimes and Mis∣demeanors was read, in the behalf of the Kingdom of England, &c. Here the Charge at length was read, af∣ter which the Clark proceeds, which Charge being read unto him, as aforesaid, He the said Charles Stewart was required to give his Answer, but he refused so to do: For all which Treasons and Crimes, this Court doth adjudge, the said Charles Stewart, as a Tyrant, Traytor, Murtherer, and a publick Enemy, shall be put to Death, by the severing his Head from his Body.

After this wicked Sentence passed by these Miscreants, the King was had away to Sr. Robert Cotten's, and thence to St. James's, the rude Soldiers in his passage by them blowing Tobacco in his Face, and one spit on it, which he wiped off with his Hand-kerchief without taking notice of it. But when he heard some of them to Cry out Justice, Justice, he said, alas! Poor Souls, for a piece of Money, they will do as much for their Com∣manders. On the 29th. a Committee met in the paint∣••d Chamber, to consider on the time and place of the Kings death, which they ordered to be the next day, before his own Palace Gate, which was approved of by the Commissioners, and a Warrant Signed and Sealed, by them directed, to Hacker, Hunts, and Phare, and or∣der that Marshal, Nye, Caryl, Salway, and Dell, should attend on his Majesty, and to administer to him spiritual help; but the King would not be troubled with them, and at his desire, Doctor Juxon Bishop of London was admitted to Pray with him in private, in his Chamber, and to administer to him the Sacrament, and his Chil∣dren

permitted to come to see him. But John Godwin was also sent to be an over-looker of their Actions. In the mean time, the Junto Pen a Proclamation, which they afterwards caused to be published, making it high Treason for any man, to proclaim or publish Charles Stewart, the Son, to be rightful Heir and Successor to the Crown of England after his Fathers death, or a∣ny other of that Line King of England: and that no man under Pain of imprisonment, or other Arbitrary punishment, which they should think fit to inflict, shall Preach, Write, or speak any thing, contrary to the present Proceedings of the supream Authority of this Nation, the Commons of England assembled in Parlia∣ment.

The Sunday before the King dyed, it is reported, that some of the chief of the Army and Parliament, ten∣dred the King a paper to sign with promise of Life, and some shew of a King, the Power being wholly invested on themselves, and was Destructive to the Fundamental Laws of the Land, to the Religion established, to the Liberties and Properties of the People; one Proposition whereof was, To continue the Power of the Sword to the Army, and to have as a standing Force, under the same general Officers, forty Thousand Horse and Foot; they to have the Choice of their own Officers among themselves, by a Councel of War, and to settle a constant Tax upon the People, by way of a Land rate, for the payment of the said Army, and to be collected and levyed by themselves; and a Court martial to be E∣rected of an exorbitant Extent and Latitude. But his Majesty, disdaining to read them all, flung them aside, and told them, He should rather become a Sacrifice for his People, and dye by their Hands, than so to betray their Laws, Liberties, Lives, and Estates, the Church and Honour of his Crown, and so to make all Slaves to the Arbitrary Will, and Tyranny of an Army! O Glo∣rious Prince! Oh height of Impudence of armed Arbi∣trariness!

See yet how they proceed, on the 29th. of January,

the Junto Vote, That it be enacted by this present Par∣liament, and by the Authority of the same, That in all Courts of Law, Justice, Equity, and in all Writs, Grants, Pa∣tents, Commissions, Inditements, Informations, Suits, Re∣turns of Writs, Fines, Recoveries, Exemplificationr, Re∣cognizances, Processes, and Proceedings at Law, &c. Within the Kingdom of England and Ireland and Domi∣nion of Wales, &c. Instead of the Name, Style, or Ti∣tle of King heretofore used, should thence forward be used, and no other than the Name, Style, or Title, Custodes Libertatis A••glie, Authoritate Parliamenti; The keep∣ers of the Liberty of England by Authority of Parlia∣ment; and the date of the Year of our Lord, and no other; and instead of Juratores pro Domino Rege, shall be u∣sed Juratores pro republica: and so, Contra pacem dignitatem & Coronam nostram, should be turned into Contra pacem publicam. All judges, Justices, Ministers, and Officers to take Notice thereof, and that whatever should be done Contrary to this Act hence forward, should be declared null, and void in Law, the Death of the King, or any usage, Law, Custom &c, to the Contrary.

The King after his Sentence, was lodg'd in White-Hall, and the little time they gave him to prepare himself, he was disturb'd with the noise of his rude Guards, filling all the Rooms with the smoak of their Tobacco, a thing extreamly offensive to him, and they Rung in his Ears the clincking of Pots, and such like Noises; and not on∣ly so, but he lay so near the place where he was to Dye, that he could hear every stroke of the Hammers of those Workmen, that were erecting the Scaffold, and working all night: all which Barbarity was to mortifie him, but that would not bring him to their Bent: On Munday he was removed to St. James's, whence he came the next day on Foot thorow the Park, to suffer his Mar∣tyrdom.

And now on the 30th. of January, 1648. was Acted the most unheard of Tragedy, that ever was Committed, and not to be parallel'd in History, in any Countrey. A King convented, and Tryed, openly in a Court of un∣lawful

Judicatory, as a Capital Criminal, by the mean∣est of his Subjects, under pretence of Law, and then publickly Executed on a Scaffold in the face of the Sun and the People, before his own Palace; by the hand of the common Hangman (as it hath since appeared) is so strange a thing, that it will be the Admiration of succeeding Ages, as well as it hath been of our own, and I think, a most notable Display of Arbitrary Usurpation: For tho we have had some of our Kings murthered in our Land, yet there was some modesty shewed in their Assassination, in that it was done Privately; and Acted by great Persons laying claim to, or Ambitioning the Crown; nay, they were so Cautious, as in the Murthers of Edward the second, and Richard the second, First to de∣pose them, and to take away their Crowns, or making them to resign them by their own Acts, becoming thereby private men, accounting them else Sacred to be murthered; but thus I say; to be publickly put to Death, under the Colour of Law and Justice, and to justifie such •• bloody Perpetration to the World as a legal Act, being so palpable against all Laws both Divine and Hu∣mane, was a thing never to be found in any Age, or in any story. I shall say no more of it, his Majesties Speech and all the fatal Transactions of that Tra∣gedy, being Printed at large; only I shall take notice, that this Royal Martyr, with much Constancy, Courage, and Resolution lai'd his Head on the Block, and suffer∣ed under the Ax, in refusing to acknowledge the Au∣thority of these bloody Usurpers to be legal, and be∣cause he would not betray the Liberties, Lives, and Properties of his people to an unjust and usurping Ty∣rannical Government.

Even whilst he was on the Scaffold, he was pittied by some of his Persecutors, the Officers of the Army, which Cromwell perceiving, he begun to play with them his usual jugling Tricks, and made them believe that he would con∣sult with them, concerning the saving of the Kings Life; Seeming to pitty him himself, and blaming him for being Obstinate, in not adhering to their Propositions, feigning

a Reluctancy for his Death, and therefore told them, He should be very glad if it might be effected with the safe∣ty of the Kingdom; tho what was done, was by the Autho∣rity of the Parliament, yet he feared the Odium might be cast on them; but says he, before we proceed in this weighty Matter, let us seek God; to which they agreed, and Oliver began a long-winded Prayer, which lasted so long, till News was brought them, that the King was Executed, which several not suspecting, were surprized and amazed, but Cromwell holding up his Hands told them, he now saw clearly, that it was not the will of God that the King should live, and therefore he was afraid they had done ill to tempt God to desire it.

This was the end of his Majesty Charles the First, and now all the world believed, as most legally they might, that this Parliament was dissolved of Course, by the Death of the King; by what Authority now can they pretend to sit and Act? Even by the same unjust Pow∣er of the Sword, whereby they had committed so many illegal Acts, contrary to the Fundamental Laws of the Land; as now in continuing themselves a Parliament, was against the most ancient Constitutions of Parliaments. But they lay hold of the Act, of 17. Car. 1. for the Conti∣nuance of this Parliament: In which these words Were: And be it declared and Enacted by the King our Soveraign Lord, with the assent of the Lords and Commons in this pre∣sent Parliament assembled, and by the Authority of the same, that this present Parliament now assembled, shall not be dis∣solved, unless by Act of Parliament, to be passed for that Purpose. Therefore they declared, and believe, that they are still a Parliament, and are not Dissolved by the Kings Death, because not dissolved by an Act of Parliament. But it was answered, that it was▪ and e∣ver hath been, the undoubted Prerogative of the King, to Call and Dissolve Parliaments, and that an Act for their Perpetuation, was a taking way one of the chief∣est Flowers in the imperial Crown of England, which the King could not grant, and give away, tho with con∣sent of both Houses. But this Act was palpably against

the King's inclination, being as it were forced to it by some Heady, violent, and turbulent Men. But that a Perpetuation or Extention of it beyond the Kings Death, was never then thought of, is most plain by the Pream∣ble of the said Act, where it is expressed, That by rea∣son of great Sums of Money, of necessity to be advan∣ced, for the speedy relief of his Majesties Army and People, in the northern parts of the Realm, and that Credit might be had for the raising such Monies, and to take away the Fears and Jealousies of any that should lend such Monies upon their Credit, that this Parliament should not be Prorogued or Dissolved, before Justice be done on Delinquents, and publick Grieva••ces redressed, it was Enacted, &c: That they should not be Dissolved, but by an Act of Parliament; so that by the very end and Scope of this Act, there could not be thought to be any Perpetuation of this Parliament: or that they should not be Dissolved by the Kings death: For else, certain∣ly they would have inserted the like special Clause, as, That this Parliament shall not be Dissolved by his Majesties death, but only by Act of Parliament. But that the Par∣liament was Dissolved Ipso facto, by the Kings death, be∣ing called by his Writ, to confer with him as his Par∣liament, Arduis negot••is, or about urgent Affairs, was Resolued, 1 Hen. 4. Rot. Parl. n. 14.14. Hen. 4. Cook, 4th. Institut. p. 46. &c. For it is not natural to sup∣pose, and impossible, That the Lords and Commons should be a Parliament, and make Acts and Laws with∣out the King, as for a Body to move and Act without an Head; and therefore, had there been any such thing intended to have been Enacted, it was void, because impossible; for the Kings Royal assent could not be had after his Death, and there is no Clause in the Act that obliges his Successor to Consent, which clearly shews they never had any such intention, at the making of this Act. And therefore on the death of the King all Com∣missions both of the Judges and others cease, and all Proceedings determined, tho the King is said to sit in the Court of the Kings-Bench in his politick Capacity,

which indeed never dyes so as to cause an Interregnum, but other wayes as to the Continuance of Commissions, Writs &c. which must be renewed. Consider also, that if these men after the Death of the King, could be a Parliament, they must be so either by the Com∣mon Law and Custom of Parliaments, which is clearly against them, or by this Statute which as little Coun∣tenances them, for they would then be another thing, distinct from the Parliament which was summoned in the Kings Life; for the Country had no Power to elect their Representatives, but by the King's Writ, and there∣fore could receive no more Power from them, than the Tenour of the Kings Writ granted, which deter∣mining with the Kings Life, their Representative-Pow∣er was also determined, and by Consequence, they could be no longer a Parliament. If it could be thought they could be yet so, by that Act, then it follows, That a Parliament by their Act might create another Parlia∣ment, to exist after themselves were dissolved, which is most absur'd, and alters the Root and Foundation of all the Liberties of the Subject; for they become no longer their Representatives, but a Parliament by their own Act; and it will never be thought that the peo∣ple intended to entrust them with their Authority, to change the Government, and deprive them of their Fundamental Priviledges. The Parliament cannot De jure do any thing against natural Equity, quia jura natu∣rae sunt immutabilia. And also by the judgement of a Parliament this could not be, being against the Law and Custom of Parliament, for Ro. Parl. 42. E. 3. no 7. it is declared, by the Lords and Commons in full Parliament, upon demand made of them, in the behalf of the King, That they could not assent to any thing in Parlia∣ment, that tended to the Disherision of the King and his Crown, to which they were Sworn. Now this Act of the 17th. of Caroli Primi, is expresly against the Kings Suc∣cessors Prerogative, to call his own Parliament, and therefore they could not make such an Act, to the Dis∣herision of his King and Crown. A Parliament may

be three ways Dissolved, by the Declaration of the Kings pleasure, or for want of entring their Continuan∣ces, or by the Kings death, whereby the Kings Writ, which gives them their Authority, is determined. These words, That this Parliament shall not be Dissolved, unless by Act of Parliament, is a general Negative, which cannot extend to all Causes of Dissolution, but have a respect on∣ly to that most usually hapning, the Pleasure of the King, till the pretended Grievances of the time were satisfied. Now in all Times, the judges have excepted particular Cases out of the general Negative, or Affir∣mative Words of Statutes. By the Star. of Magna Char∣ta C. 11. 'Tis enacted, That Common pleas shall not follow or be sued in the Kings-Bench, which is a general Nega∣tive, yet it is holden to be clear in Law, That the King is not within these general Words, and may sue in his Bench, or any other Court at his Pleasure. The Statute of Winchester is a general Statute, That the Hun∣dred, &c. shall make Satisfaction for all Robberies and Fellonies, within the Hundred, yet it is Resolved, That the Hundreds shall make no Satisfaction for the Robbe∣ries of an House, because the House was the owners Castle, and he might have defended himself, and pre∣served his Goods. Besides this Clause in the said Act, That all and every thing done, or to be done, for the Pro∣roguing or Dissolving of this present Parliament, contrary to this present Act, shall be utterly voyd and of none Effect: By which it appears, That the cause of Dissolution, which they intended to prevent, was something that should consist in Action, by the words, Thing or Things done, or to be done; which words can only be ap∣plicable to an Actual dissolution by the Kings pleasure: And the King's death, is not a thing done, but a Cessa∣tion of his personal being, and of the Dependants thereupon: And is not an Action, but a Termination or Period. So that it is most Clear, these men could no longer by any the least Colour of Law or Reason, pretend to sit and Act as a Parliament. But alas! What are Ar∣guments to them, who had usurp'd the Throne and

Power of their Soveraign? and had the vain and idle Hopes to keep it? And to the strengthening themselves, with all the Arbitrary and Tyrannical ways imaginable, they proceed.

First, they issue out their spurious Act before ment∣ioned, against proclaiming the King, tho by the Law of the Land, instantly upon the King's decease, the imperial Crown of the Kingdom of England, was by his inherent Birthright, and by an undoubted Succession and Descent, Actually vested in our now Soveraign, eldest Son to the murthered King, and next Heir of the Blood to his Royal Father, and that before any Ceremony of Co∣ronation, as by Stat. of 1. Jacobi Ch. 1. And that all Peers of the Realm, Majors, Sheriffs, and other chief Officers in all the Cities and Corporations of England, are oblig'd by their places, and Allegiance, to proclaim him under pain of High Treason, and forfeiting their City and Corporation Charters. And notwithstanding the Junto's Prohibition, there were several Proclamati∣ons printed and scatter'd about the City, which pro∣claimed and asserted the Right of the Prince, as next Heir to the Crown, and by Birthright to be the lawful King of Great Britain, &c. Dated the 1st. of Februa∣ry. Then also in like manner was privately scatter'd a∣bout, another Paper, in which were four Propositions briefly declaring: That the House of Commons had no Power of themselves alone, and without the Concur∣rance of the King and House of Lords, to make any Act of Parliament, Ordinance, or to impose any Tax, Oath, Forfeiture, or Capital Punishment, on any. Secondly, That the few Members now sitting, were no Court of Justice in themselves, and could Erect no such Court for the Tryal of any person, nor had Power to hear and determine any Civil or Criminal Causes, and that all Acts, by Pretext of such Power, were illegal, and the ad∣judging any Person to death, and Executing them was Treason, and wilful Murther. Thirdly, That the said Com∣mons had no power to make any great Seal of England, and that all Commissions granted under their great Seal,

were illegal, and all Proceedings in Law upon such Writs null and voyd, to all intents and purposes. Lastly, That the denyal of the King's Title to the Crown, and the plotting to deprive him of it, and the setting it up∣on the Head of another, was High Treason, and within the Stat. 25th. Ed. 3. Ch. 2. as likewise their Subverting the fundamental Laws of the Land, and introducing an Arbitrary and Tyrannical Government, was High Treason at the common Law, &c.

This was all the Loyalists could do at present, by these weak Indeavours, to assert the Kings right, and shew the people what Slaves they were become, but this affrighted not these Men, who in the next place, Fe∣bruary 1st. Vote, That all such Members who assented to the Vote of the 5th. of December 1648. That the Kings Con∣cessions were a Ground for the House to Proceed to a Settle∣ment, should not be admitted into the House, until they had declared their disapproval of that Vote, before they sit, and that such as were now in the House, should enter their dissent to that Vote, being only those who had before Voted in the Negative.

The Lords were yet sitting, but no notice taken of them by the Commons, for having overthrown the Monarchy, they now lay aside the Lords, and therefore Vote them dangerous and useless, Frebruary 5th. and so Voted them down, with this Proviso, That they might be capable to be Elected Knights of the shire, and Burgesses, and so sit among the Commons. Three of them only so debased themselves, viz. The Earls of Pembroke, Salisbury, and the Lord Howard of Estrick. The rest of the Peers, put forth their Protestation a∣gainst these Proceedings, of the Commons; which came forth on the 8th. of Frebruary, in which they asserted their own Priviledges, and the fundamental Laws of the Nation, disclaiming the Votes of the Commons, for E∣recting an high Court of Justice, for the Tryal of the King, and altering the Government, Law, Seal, &c. and against their Traiterous murthering their Soveraign, and disinheriting the Prince, the Lawful Heir of the

Crown of England, and also protesting against their Vote of the 6th. of Frebruary, for the abolishing the House of Peers, as destructive to the beings of Parlia∣ment, the Fundamental Laws of the Realm, and the Lives, Liberties, and Properties of the people, whom they had made Slaves to their Tyrannical and Arbitrary Government.

But this affrights not the Commons, and to keep the Lords from meeting, the Army set a Guard at their Doors of their House, and the House now proceeds to set up a Common-wealth, and to abolish Monarchy; and therefore they formed an Act intituled, an Act for the Exheredation of the Royal Line, the abolishing of Mo∣narchy in this Kingdom, and the setting up a Common-wealth, which they ordered to be published in all places. And to Vindicate these their most horrid Proceedings, they had their Pulpit-Trumpeters, who justified their Impi∣ous Acts in all places: and John Godwin and Milton, to write in their Defence of putting the King to death, declaring in Print, That the King suffered on just Grounds, and according to his Demerits. And now instead of one King, these Common-wealth Rumpers set up forty Tyrants, as a Committee of State. But the people generally seemed displeased at this Alteration of the Government, and Reineldson Lord Major of the City re∣fused to publish their Act for abolishing of Monarchy, for wh••ch he was discharged of his Office, and with two Aldermen sent to the Tower, and Andrews was cho∣sen in his stead; upon this the Rumpers put forth a new Declaration, to justifie their Proceedings, calling them, A Deliverance of the people from the Bondage that was brought in by the Norman Conquest, and their Maintenance of the ancient Laws, notwithstanding their Alteration of some forms of the Regality, which anci∣ent Laws might consist very well with a Republick, and that they had only abolished their Abuses, promising to establish a safe and firm Peace, and to advance the true Protestant Religion, the Encouragment of a Godly mini∣stry; and of Trade, and the Maintenance of the Poor

thorowout the Realm. Then their Great Seal came forth, having on one side a Cross and Harp, for the Arms of England and Ireland, with this Inscription •• The Great Seal of England. And on the other side, was the Picture of the Commons, with these words: In the first year of Freedom by God's blessing restored, 1648. Like∣wise they caused a new Coyn to be minted, and stam∣ped their Money with a Cross and Harp, instead of the King's Effigies, with this Motto: God with us. Then they took away all Clauses in any former Acts, for the taking the Oaths of Allegiance and Supremacy, and made them null, and a new Oath framed and tendred to all that were to have any publick place of Trust, and assumed to themselves both Judicial and Legislative pow∣er of the King, and both Houses of Parliament, and the Executive power they committed to a Council of State of forty Persons, of the most Active men in the Army, and others of desperate Fortunes.

Six of the Judges, viz. Justice Bacon, Brown, Bed∣dinfield, Creswell, Trevor, and Atkins, quitted their pla∣ces, not being able to bring their Consciences to Act un∣der this Arbitrary and illegal power; six other of them continued, who were Justice Rolls, St. Johns, Pheasan•• Baron Wild, and Baron Yates.

To their new Council of State, they gave Power t•• Command, and settle the Militia of England, and Ir••∣land: Power to set forth Ships, and such a Considera∣ble Navy as they should think fit. Power to appoin•• Magistrates and stores for England and Ireland; and t•• dispose of them for the Service of the Nation. An•• power to Execute all the powers given them for a whole Year to come. They had two Seals appointed a great Seal and a Signet: Cromwell was made Chai••∣man of this Committee, and an Oath framed for eve•••• Member to take, to be true to the Parliament, (as they termed themselves) not to disclose their Secrets, an•• to adhere to the present Settlement of the Government 〈◊〉〈◊〉 a Republick without King or House of Lords. Abou•• this time the Officers of the Army at a Counc••••

of War, debated, Whether they should not put to the Sword all that were of the King's Party, to secure the Nation to themselves, and it was carried in the Nega∣tive, but by two voyces, so near were they to a gene∣ral Massacre. And many Petitions came from several Counties, that at least three of the most eminent of the King's party, in each County, might be put to Death; to free the Land from Blood-Guiltiness.

Cromwell by this, as you may perceive, had gotten all the executive Power of the Kingdom into his own Hand, and into the hands of his own Creatures of the Councel of State, altogether ruled by him, and therefore it may be wondred at, that he did not immediately seize the Crown, and set himself in the Throne, which he now aspired to: But things were not yet ripe, and the subtil Fox found such a Levelling party in the Army, which he saw must first be Crushed, who would never indure it; for they were for dividing and sharing all, as a Land subdued by them among themselves, and for owning no Authority but the Saints, who were themselves. These begin to rip up the Miscarriages of the Parliament; and Cromwell, to make them the more Odious, puts them upon all Things he believed would make them so to the People and Army. One of which was, the new Erecti∣on of their most Tyrannical Court of Justice, for the Tryal of some of the Lords and others, whom they had still imprisoned for their Loyalty. The first was Duke Hamilton, who had invaded England as you have heard; with him they at first deal gently, hoping to have screw'd out of him the Names of some Eminent men in England, that they thought might have invited him in. But he either not able or willing in that point to give them Satisfaction, and finding the Scots and Ar∣gile's party to hate him, and to desire his Head, he was Condemned, tho he pleaded, he had Quarter given him by Lambert upon Articles, and would have given a hundred Thousand pound to save his Life. After him was also tryed and Condemned the Earl of Holland, and that most Noble, and Heroick Peer the Lord Capel, who

had escaped out of the Tower, but was retaken by means of a perfidious Water-man, ever after hated for it. He plead∣ed Articles of surrender, but that was denyed him: then he pleaded to be tryed at Common-Law, put them in mind of Magna Char••a, Petition of right, and of the Fundament∣al Laws of the Land, and that of right he ought to be try∣ed by his Peers, urging them to shew a President of any such Tryal by an Arbitrary Court of Justice, as they call∣ed it. He talk'd to deaf Statues, for he was too gallant a Man, and too Active, and Loyal, to be permitted to Live. On the 9th. of March these three Lords Duke Hamilton, the Earl of Holland, and this Noble Lord much lamented were put to Death, on a Scaffold in the Pallace-yard in Westmin∣ster, by severing their Heads from their Bodies. It is re∣markable that this Lord dyed with much Courage and Christianity, being nothing daunted at Death. The Earl of Norwich and Sr. John Owen were pardoned, by Vote of the House, the Earl of Norwich having his Life by the casting Voyce of Lenthal the Speaker only.

Thus they proceed dipping their hands in Blood, grow∣ing thereby more Odious to the People, and about this time the Scots begin to stir, and made a Protest against the Actions of the Parliament of England; and on the third of February proclaim the King by the name of Charles the se∣cond at Edenborough; by Lyon King at Arms. The Scotch Commissioners who had been long here, were called home, and at their departure, they left an Expostulary Declarati∣on, putting the Junto in mind of all their Vows and Oaths, in maintenance of the Kings Rights and defence of his Per∣son, and upbraided them with their shameful Abjuration and Infringment of them, by their late horrid Proceedings. This paper they Vote Scandalous and Seditious, imprison the Mess••nger who brought it, and sending after the Com∣missioners secure them, till the Parliament in Scotland send to justifie the Action, and require their Commissio∣ners, being imprisoned Contrary to the Law of Nations, up∣on which they were permitted to depart into Scotland, and thus Jealousies of a breach began.

Troublesome John Lilburn, an Active Leveller began

now to stir, delivering a Petition in the Names of many Thousand well affected, &c. with a Book intituled Englands new Chains discovered, in which they find fault with many things done by this Junto, and especially the Councel of State, and with the erecting an high Court of Justice and altering the Fundamental Laws of the Land, for Tryals by Juries. Complain of the Excise, and of several other things. And after this another, called a second Part of Englands new Chains, which shewed the Hypocrisie and Perfidiousness of the Gran∣dees of the Army, and the Councel of State, in Cheat∣ing all Interests, King, Parliament, People, Soldiers, City, Agitators, Levellers, &c. Upon the back of this comes forth another Book, called the Hunting of the Fox, which spake against the Army and Councel of State, set up by Cromwell and Ireton, to erect a new Tyranny, worse than the thirty Tyrants at Athens, the Star-Chamber, the High Commission, or house of Lords, &c. These com∣ing forth one upon the Neck of another, shewed the troublesome Spirit that began to ferment in the Army; which was now to be Purged, as well as the Parliament had been, or else Cromwell found he should not be able to work them to his ends. And now he had an oppor∣tunity offerr'd him, for Ireland being in a manner wholly lost, excepting Dublin, then besieged, eleven Regiments were ordered by the Rump to be Transported for its re∣lief, by which means Cromwell hoped to purge out this Turgent humour of the Army. But some of these bold Petitioners were seized, and tryed by a Councel of War, of which Barksted was President, in which they were Cashiered the Army, their Swords ordered to be broken over their Heads, and to Ride with their Faces to the Horses Tails, with Papers of their Crimes pinned to their Breasts, at the head of the Regiments; which Sentence was executed accordingly, to the great Exasperation of the Army. And not long af••er, several Regiments be∣gan to Mutiny and to wear White Colours for distincti∣on in their Hats, which might have proved fatal to Cromwell's designs, had he not with an undaunted Boldness

at that time, appearing in Person, overawed them, and causing two of them to be shot to Death, before their Faces. But this could not purge out the Humour, which 〈◊〉〈◊〉 increasing▪ two more of the Levelling Tribe were 〈◊〉〈◊〉, one of which was named Lockyer a Trooper, shot in St. Paul's Church-yard, but buried in great State by the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Faction, wearing green and black Rib∣bons in ••••••ir Hats. And now the peoples Eyes daily began 〈◊〉〈◊〉 be opened, finding what Keepers of Eng∣lands Liberties they had got. The Regiments ordered to march at Salisbury make an Eruption, alledging that this was a Trick to divide the Army, and that they were not Mereenaries but took up Arms upon a righteous Principle of Government, and therefore would not di∣vide: upon which several Regiments revolt, and Collo∣nel Scroop's laid aside their Officers, and with Colours flying march'd to joyn Harrison's Regiment, and Ireton's, and Skippon's, who had confederated. But Fairfax and Cromwell, by hasty marches with the whole Army follow them, who at Burford in Oxford-shire, made up about five Thousand Horse and Foot, with whom Cromwell by private Messengers held them in hand of a Treaty, put∣ting them in hopes of reconciling the Business without blows, which made them neglectful till Fairfax and Cromwell fell upon them in their Quarters unsuspected, their Horses being most at Grass at twelve a Clock of the night, routed them and took about four hundred Pri∣soners, of which only three were shot to Death, the rest pardoned by Cromwell's Intercession, to ingratiate himself with the Army. One Thomson and two more dyed very Resolutely: This business being over, the General and Cromwell come to Oxford, where they are feasted and made Doctors of the Civil Law. And now the Army were fain to submit, and accepted their Lots for going to Ireland, which were these following: Ireton's, Scroop's, Hor∣ton's and Lambert's Regiments of Horse: Collonel Abot's of Dragoons. And of Foot Collonel Eure's, Cook's, Hew∣son's and Dean's, to which were added three new ones, Cromwell's Venable's, and Phayer's, Cromwell was made

Commander in Chief, with the Title of Lord Gover∣nour of Ireland, and Fairfax was left at home to attend the Junto.

In the mean time, the Keepers of the peoples Liberties, were as fast as they could taking away the Lives of seve∣ral Persons, in several places, whose Loyalty and Consci∣ences had engaged them for their King, as Lievtenant Collonel Moris, and Cornet Blackborn, who ••uffered at York, the former having been Governour of Pomfret; and one Beamount, a Minister was hanged at Pomfret, by Sentence of a Court Marshal, Major Monday was shot to Death at Leicister, Poyer a brave Gentleman in Covent-gar∣den, for the Welch Insurrection. Sr. John Stowell and Judge Jenkins were arraigned at the Kings-Bench Bar as Traytors against the Government, for their Loyalty to their King, but they would not own the Courts jurisdicti∣on; yet they were not yet Sentenced, but their Estates seized, and Judge Jenkins kept long a Prisoner.

And that the people might the better see their Free∣dom and Liberty, this Rump lay upon them a standing Tax of ninety thousand pound a Month, for the maintenance of the Army: these were the Persons who made such a stir about Ship-money. The Lord Major of London Reynoldson is fined two thousand Pound for re∣fusing to proclaim their Act for abolishing Kingly Go∣vernment. Then upon a report from the Councel of State they order: The Kings's and Queens Lands to be sold, Thirty thousand Pound to be taken out of it for the use of the Fleet, and the rest to be distributed amongst the most considera∣ble among them; for Satisfaction of Losses sustained. Thus they had killed and were now taking possession; and se∣veral of the Kings Houses and Mannors were bestow∣ed amongst them. And besides this they had twenty thousand Pound a month out of the Fee-Farm Rents. Now that the World might perceive what Liberty should be granted to the people, they Order, That no Minister in his Pulpit should meddle with State affairs, and this in others was Oppression, and tying up mens Conscienc••••. But for all that, new Lights as they called them increa∣sed,

and about this time one that was a Soldier, came to Walton upon the Thames in Surry, and in the Church-yard, having a Candle and Lanthorn with him, met the Mi∣nister and People coming out of the Church, and told them, he had a Vision and five new Lights were shew∣ed him, which they were to receive from him, under pain of Damnation. The first was, That the Sabbath was abolished; The second, That Tythes were abolished; Third, That Ministers were abolish'd, as Antichristian; Fourth, That Magistrates were abolish'd as useless; and Fifthly, That the Bible was abolish'd; for Christ was come in the Spirit and Glory; and so drawing a little Bible out of his Pocket, he set it on Fire before them. The War with Holland being now about to break forth, the Earl of Warwick's former Commission is made voy'd, and three Generals of the Fleet were made, who were Popham, Blake, and Dean. Before Cromwel's going to Ireland a Fast was kept at White-Hall, where among the Militant Preachers Oliver stood up, and in his Prayer he desired God to take off from him the Government of this mighty people of England, as being too heavy for his shoulders to bear. About this time also a third Book of John Lilburn's came sorth, Called, The Picture of th•• Councel of State, wherein he fully set forth all the illegal, Arbitrary, Violent, and Tyrannical Proceedings of that Councel. Lilburn, Overton, Walwin, Prince and others had been before Clapt into the Tower, intending to try them for their Lives; Lilburn was ordered to be brought to the Kings-Bench Bar upon his Habeas Corpus, but Cromwell sent to the Lieutenant of the Tower, that he should not be brought, who was obey'd, not the Judges. By which may be seen of what force the Laws were with them. Then some thousands well affected Women peti∣tion the House in behalf of Lilburn, but the Junto answered them, He should be tryed by the Law, for his Book called Englands new Chains discovered, and they bid to go home and wash their Dishes. Who reply'd they had neither Dishes nor Meat left.

This John Lilburn was tryed by a special Commission

of Oyer and Terminer in October 1649. where he so nota∣bly pleaded his Cause, shewed the illegality of the Par∣liaments Proceedings, and so punctually cited all the Statutes and Laws of the Land, in the behalf of the Li∣berties of the Subjects, and so bafled the Judges, the Attorney general Prideaux, and their Councel, that they could not Effect what they desired, the taking away his Life upon an Inditement of High Treason put in a∣gainst him, but was found Not Guilty, by his Jury, to the great disappointment of his Enemies.

Their chief business now was to give one another E∣states, out of the Delinquents Lands, as they called the Loy∣al Party, whom they now sequester, and made an Order That no Malignant or such as had been in Arms against them should come within twenty miles of London, or go five miles from their own habitations. Bishops and Deans and Chapters Lands sold and disposed to one ano∣ther at easie Rates, some got for three years Purchase▪ for none but themselves would buy them. About this time they send their Embassadors Oliver St. Johns, and Walter Strictland into Holland, for Satisfaction for Doctor Dorislaus, who drew up the Charge against the King, his being Assassinated in Holland, by some Cavalier's, but they were there affronted and forced to return Re infecta, in great Discontent, which exasperated our new States against the Dutch▪ Ascham another of their Creatures was mur∣thered also in Spain. And tho the Dutch sent afterwards their Agent Myn heer Joachim, with Complements and excuses, our Junto could forget it, and by it took an occasion to forgo their Friendship, and prohibited their Fishing upon the English Coasts, and the importing of a∣ny forrain Commmodities, except in English bottoms: or such as were of the Countrey, whence the Commo∣dities came. This brought on the ensuing War commenced the next year, between these two States.

In the mean time, they have no small umbrage of the Scots Proceedings; who had sent to the King then at the Hague, and invited him into Scotland with several Pro∣positions in order thereunto. But Middleton and Mon∣roe

fearing the Kirk Party would hold the King to hard Terms, should he come in upon their Propositions, rise in the North of Scotland, but were soon supprest by Ker and Stranghan; upon this our Junto strike in, and offer∣ing them by their Letters several fair Temptations, that they might break with the King, promising to stand by them, and to defend their Liberty as they called it. But this took not. And about this time they make a new Act of Treason, such as scarce was ever heard of before: That to kill the General, Lievtenant General, or any Member of that House of Parliament, or Councel of State should be Treason, was to have been put into it, but after long debate was omitted, betraying too much Cowardise in them, and having other ways secured them∣selves in the Act. For it was made Treason, to Act, Plot, Contrive, or speak against this Fag End of the Parliament, or their Government, and all Endeavours a∣gainst the Keepers of the Liberties of England, and the Councel of State, to subvert them, as now Constituted, and that shall be hereafter Constituted by Parliament, (what an individuum vagum is here?) and for every such Act, &c. to forfeit Life and Estate: And also to move, and stir up the people against them, was declared Treason, nay so much as to endeavour to withdraw any Soldier, or Officer from their obedience to their Superi∣or Officer, or from the present Government aforesaid. Also to Counterfeit their great Seal is by this Act made Treasons. Are not these in the mean time excellent Conservators of the Liberties of the Nation? And a very free State? Lilburn in the Tower was kept from Pen, Ink and Paper, and all allowance for Meat and Drink taken from him, tho he petitioned for it, so that he was kept three days with half a Meals meat, and in a close Cham∣ber, none suffered to come at him: This under a King had been Tyrannical, but is Prudence in this free State. About this time also orders were given to certain Com∣mittees, to inquire upon Oath, and to Certifie the im∣proved vallue of every mans Estate, both Real and Per∣sonal, which they intended thorowout the Kingdom, fol∣lowing

the Conqueror's steps, to have by them a Dooms-day Book, that they might the better load the people with Taxes, and free Quarter, in this their new Subject∣ed and Conquered Kingdom, called a Free-state. Here the House enables their Committees to give Oaths, when they had not Power to give any themselves, Contrary to that Maxim, None can give what he hath not: or more Power than is in himself. These are the men that were so much troubled with the Oath ex Officio, and yet re∣quire Oaths against a mans self: Nay, the Scriveners in London were commanded by these supream Governors, to shew their Books, that they might inspect, what and whose Money they had in their Hands, the better to come at it themselves. And that they might grasp at all, they were Contriving to seize all the Tythes of the King∣dom into their own Hands, and to make all Ministers their Stipendary Lecturers, and to depend upon the State, that they might Preach no Doctrine, but what should be agreeable to themselves, or in justification of their Acti∣ons. This was a politick Device.

Oliver before he went for Ireland, took all the poli∣tiok Care possible, to keep up the Greatness he had ac∣quired; and to secure this Junto of Men, which he made use of only to set up himself, besides the Bridle he had already made them, the Councel of State, Composed of his Creatures, he picks out of the Army left behind in England, the chief of his Creatures, and Constitutes them a Councel of War, or a Councel of Officers, to over-awe all with the Power of the Sword, for silent Leges inter Arma, and now silet Justitia inter Leges, & filet Jus inter Judices. The Government was now a Cerberus with three Heads, a Parliament, a Councel of State, and a Councel of War. Many Scruple to pay their illegal Tax of nine∣ty Thousand pound a Month, for the Army, and therefore have their Goods taken from them by Violence, and sold, tho they exclaim against it, as not done by Law. Mr. Prin declares against it, and shews it to be a∣gainst the Statutes Magna Charta, 29.30.25. Ed. 1 Chap. 5.6.34. Ed. 1.21. Ed. 3.25. Ed 3.45. Ed. 3.11. Hen. 4.1.

Rich, 3. The Petition of Right, and many more; and it was observed to them, that no Tax was to be impo∣sed but upon necessity and for the good of the People, 25. Ed. 1. Cook Just. but for the keeping up an Army when the Wars were done, was the bain of the People, and that more Taxes had been raised in eight years, than in all the Kings Reigns since the Conquest. A hun∣dred and fifty thousand Pound was advanced for Oliver's expedition into Ireland, who was to be accomptable only of part of it, the rest to be disposed at his Discretion, for the use of the Common-wealth.

And now this Junto begin to think of adjourning themselves according to Oliver's desire, and in the mean time, things to be left to his two Caballs or Councells, That of State, and that of War: but this was a bitter Pill, and they knew not how to leave their old Seats, where most of them were grown very warm, and tho urged to it by the Councells, and that some trouble was given to Lenthal their Speaker, by Articles drawn up by his Council of Officers; but they fearing, lest they might not get together again, if once separated, desired time to finish some Acts they had upon their Hands, and then they would adjourn themselves; by which you may see, how free these Keepers of the Kingdoms freedom were. First down went the King, and his Power laps∣ed into the two Houses, down went the House of Lords, and then all Power was in the House of Commons, now they are going down, and the supream Power is in a Councel of State, who must down too, and then the Wheel turns round, and all the Power will be in a single Tyrannical person and Usurper. Some of the Acts that lay yet on their Hands, and which they promised to dispatch, were, That all Acts concerning Loans, Monies, Excise, Sequestrations, Goldsmiths-Hall, Haber∣dashers-Hall, Assessments for England and Ireland be pass∣ed; so that they intended a Continuance of the Peoples Slavery and Burthens. Also an Act for the setling the Militia throughout the Kingdom. An Act for punishing revolted Seamen. An Act for the relief of well affected Te∣nants,

against Malignant Land Lords. An Act for suppre∣ssing Malignant Pamphlets, aspersing the Proceeding of this Parliament, Councel of State and Army. An Act for the suppressing of seditious Preachers. An Act for the ••••••∣ing away of a Clause of the Stat. 25. Eliz. and the 1. Jacob: against Sectaries. An Act of general Pardon and Oblivi∣on, to all Persons except such as should be nominated therein. An Act for relief of poor Prisoners. An Act to secure the Souldiers their Arrears. Then they were Con∣sidering of some orders which the Councel of State were to put in Execution (and which the said Councel desired of them) after their recess, 1. That they might appoint Commissioners in every County to make an Estimate of all Tyths. 2. That the Councel of State may consider of setling future Parliaments, and the constant time of Call∣ing, Sitting, and Ending, after this Parliament shall Dis∣solve themselves: 3. That they shall consider an Act for re∣gulating Proceedings at Law, and to prevent tediousness of Suits. 4. That they should consider what Laws are fit to be repealed. Thus they were Cutting out one ano∣ther Work.

In the mean time Oliver Cromwell, with a brave Army lands at Dublin, the whole Kingdom being reduced un∣der the Kings obedience, most of the Irish coming in, except the Ulster Irish, under Owen Roe Oneal, being pre∣vailed with by the Popes Nuncio, (Contrary to his pro∣mise,) not to come in, and under-hand there was a Confederacy driven between our new Republicans, and this Nuncio, but on what Conditions was kept Private, for their Assistance of reducing that Kingdom under their obedience, tho this being laid in their Dish, they impudently deny'd it afterwards. Some of the Propo∣sitions were, That all Laws and Penalties against the Po∣pish Religion should be taken off, by Act of Parliament; and that Act to extend to them and their Heirs for ever. That an Act of Oblivion should be pass'd, to extend to all of his Party, for all things done, since the beginning of the year, 1641: So that the horrid Massacre of the Protestants, should have been forgotten.

That Owen Oneal should have a competent Command in the Army. That they should enjoy their Lands now in Possession, and that rightly they might claim from their Ancestors. That all Acts of State that incapacitated them, to be taken off. That Oneal should in regard of his Merit, and good Service to the Parliament, in joyning with them, have all the Estate of his Ancestors, or some Estate equivalent to it, in the Counties of Tyrone, Ard∣magh, or London-Derry. And that his Army should be provided for, &c. So that the sweetness of ruling and getting Ireland into their hands, as well as England, made them thus treat with the Popes Nuncio, and a most, no∣torius Rebel and Papist, to joyn with them: But they who had Confederated with the Devil, might well joyn with his Holiness, to subdue the Cavaliers, and yet at the same time these men cryed out upon the Duke of Ormond, for joyning with the Irish, for the reducing that Kingdom to the obedience of the King. And some of Cromwell's own Soldiers, hearing of this Confederacy, a∣bominating it, deserted him, which made him to certi∣fie to his Journey-men in London; and caused them to null their Debenters for all their Service, which were sta∣ted before the Expedition. And this Agreement with Oneal went so far, that the said Oneal assisted Sr. Charles Coot, in raising the Siege of London-Derry, as may appear by his Letters to the Parliament, says the Author of the History of Independency; However they fell to pieces af∣terwards, but this is enough to shew by what Principles they Acted, and how much they valued Religion, when Gain and Dominion stood in Competition.

Oliver is successful in Ireland; at the taking of Tredagh, a strong place twenty miles North of Dublin, in which were the Flower of the Irish Army, where he put to the Sword all persons whatsoever, without Distinction of Age or Sex, and lasted for three days; he slew about three thousand of their best and stoutest men, with their Governour Sr. Arthur Aston, Sr. Edmund Varny, Collonel Warren, Collonel Dun, Finglus, Tempest, and others, who all fell by his Eury, which so affrighted the rest, that he

no sooner appeared before a place, but it was surrendred to him. The next place was Wexford a considerable Town, by the Sea, South West of Dublin, which was betray'd to him, and where he after a barbarous manner put to the Sword two Thousand more; and among the rest two hundred of the chiefest Women of the place, fled to the Market-Cross for shelter, and there put to the Sword, by his Command, tho several of his own Soldiers, who had before given them Quarter, refused to obey his Bloody Commands. After which, he took Ross, Carick, Kilkenny, Clonmel, and other places Mun∣ster. Thus with extraordinary diligence, and great Slaughter, in less than a year, that he staid there, he subdued the greatest part of Ireland, and kill'd and ex∣terminated most part of the Irish, leaving his Son-in-Law Ireton, to complete the Conquest, as Governour, or his Lieutenant, who there died of the Plague, before he had quite finish'd his work.

In the mean time the King being in Jersey, received a Letter from the Scots, by Mr. Windram, with several Con∣ditions; the chief of which was the acknowledging them a Parliament, and particularly the two last Sessi∣ons of that Assembly, and then they would treat with him at Breda concerning his coming to Scotland, owning him for their King. But those about his Majesty, hav∣ing no good Opinion of the Scots, were fearful of hav∣ing him to put himself into their Hands, but to trust to Montross, whom with a Commission he had sen•• be∣fore into Scotland, his valiant Service being most re∣markable there, for the King his Father, and they now hoped from him the like success: However the King dis∣patch'd away Windram with a Letter to the Scotch Parlia∣ment, wherein he concedes to have them to send Com∣missioners to him to treat at Breda, which they did, and on the 16th. of March they met, where the Agreement was made, and it was concluded, That they should en∣joy the Presbytery throughout the Kingdom, the King himself and Family not expected, but bound him to the Covenant, Directory, and Catechisms, which the King,

his Affairs in Ireland being desperate, and his hopes in England as little, many Noble-men and Gentlemen flying thence from the bloody Tyranny of the States, he was forced with great Reluctancy to Consent, and then on their parts they Covenant, That his Majesty should be ad∣mitted to the Throne of Scotland, That his Rights should by Parliament be recovered out of the Hands of Usurpers, and That they would assist to bring to Condign Punishment, the Murtherers of his Father, and to re∣store him to his Kingdom of England.

But in the interim of this Treaty, the gallant and re∣nowned Montross, being landed in the Islands of Orkney, with a few German Soldiers, accompanied with the Lord Trendraught, Sr. John Urry, Henry Graham, Collonel John∣son, George Drummond of Ballack▪ and other Persons his Friends and Confederates, he begun with great Resolu∣tion and Courage to levy men, notwithstanding several Losses of Arms at Sea, and disappointments of Men and Monies, which he had exspected from other places. Having raised what men he could in the Orcades, he left some men to keep the Island, and transported the rest to Cathness in the uttermost North-west part of Scot∣land, where he hoped to have met some men, whom he expected Pluscardy should have raised, but the Parlia∣ment of Scotland having notice of his Landing, was so vi∣gilant by their Correspondence and Friends in those Parts, that the High-Landers could not rise as was expected, and immediately they sent an Army of seven, Thousand Foot, and thirty Troops of Horse to oppose Montross, David Lesly commanded the Horse, and Major General Holburn the Foot. These making great speed, struck a dread in∣to the Breasts of many, who were the Kings friends, and would have appeared, had a little longer time been giv∣en them. Straham, who led the Van, finding Mon∣trosses party surprised, at their unexpected approach, made use of the Advantage, and fell in upon them, and the unseasoned Orkney men soon yielded themselves, and in a short time the Germans, tho they made some re∣sistance; thus the Earl lost the day, more through the

Panick fear of his Soldiers, than want of Courage and Conduct in himself, who was certainly one of the most skilful and valiant Leaders of his Age. There escaped not above an hundred, and most of his Officers were ei∣ther taken or slain. He got away himself, quitting his Horse, Belt, Coat, and Star, in an ordinary High-Lan∣ders habit, but it was impossible for him to get clear a∣way, the Country being every way beset, and such strict search after him, and rewards promised to those who could take him; yet for three or four days, keeping in the Woods, with one Companion only, till almost starv'd, he kept out of their Clutches, till a•• last he fell into the Hands of the Laird of Aston, who formerly had adhered to the Marquess, hoping that he would have Concealed him: But fear being more Prevalent than ancient Friend∣ship, he set a Guard upon him, and delivered him up to Lesly, who in triumph carried him to Edenborow, where this noble Marquess was treated with the most horrid Barbarity that ever was heard of, and at last hanged on a Gibbet thirty foot high, his head Cut off, and set on the Talbooth at Edenborow, and his four Quarters sent to be set up at Sterling, Glascow, St. Johns Town, and A∣berdeen, four of the notedest Cities in Scotland. Together with him were executed, tho not with so much dis∣grace, Sr. John Urry, Collonel Spotswood, Laird of Darcy, with some others of note, who came with the Marquess into Scotland. This was the end of that most noble Peer, murthered by the Kirk or Presbyterian Party, on the twen∣ty first of May, 1650, even when they were treating with ••heir King; which indignity his Majesty was fain to put up, tho he could not but shew his Resentment for that faithful Servants Barbarous usage at their Hands, writing to them particularly about it: to whom they returned their Excuses, letting him know they did it for the Ser∣vice of his Majesty, inviting him into Scotland, and pro∣testing to assist him with their Lives and Fortunes, to e∣stablish him in his Throne.

The King prepares for his Voyage, and nothwithstand∣ing Popham one of the Junto's Admirals was at Sea with

a Fleet, hoping to intercept him, he got safe into Scot∣land, and Landed in the north Parts at Spey, from whence he went to Edenborow, where he was received with great Acclamations, and again on the ••5. of July, so∣lemnly proclaimed at Edenborow; but it was not long, be∣fore the ill Nature of the Presbyterians began to appear; and they began to exercise their Kirk Authority, and all Malignants as they called the Kings best Friends, prohi∣bited to come at him; they lessen his Family, and are angry that Aberdeen had presented him with five hundred Pound; and lest others should do the like, They order, That what Money or Plate any intended to bestow upon the King, should be brought into the publick Treasury: But they form an Army as fast as they can, of which the King was to be Generalissimo, and the Earl of Levin Lieutenant General, Holborn Major General, and Lesly Lieutenant General of the Horse, and Mountgomery Major General.

In the mean time, the Junto begin to look about them, ill news comes apace from the North Quarter, of a threatning Storm, and they make ready to meet it; but the Presbyterian Ministers, had been tampering with Fairfax, and had represented this War with Scotland so illegal, being against the Church, that he being a Presby∣terian, made many Excuses, pleading Sickness and Wounds, and desiring to be Excused from commanding the Army, that was to fight against their Brethren; for now the Presbyterians, not out of any Love to the King, but to themselves, hoping to set up their own Church-Government, as they saw it was like to be in Scotland, Confederate privately together, and intend to joyn with the Scots. All these things are made known to Crom∣well in Ireland, who now thought it high time to play his Part in England, things still working for his Ad∣vancement; and therefore sending to the Junto for leave to come over he prepares to be gone, but Occasion pres∣sing, he stays not for the return of Letters, but full of his great A••chievments in Ireland, he leaves it, and Lands at Bristow, whence he Posts to London, where he is met, Complemented, and Caressed by the Members of the

Junto, and the Creatures of his Councils, and presently, Fairfax still refusing the command of the Army, Cromwell is by order of the Rump made General, and Fairfax laid aside. And now with all Expedition he ••orms his Army, and draws his Forces together, pre∣••ares for Scotland, and about the latter end of June mar∣ches to Berwick, whence he sends canting Letters to the Scots, who fearing their people should be gull'd with his fair Words, proclaim it Treason to hold Correspondence with the English. The English Army was about sixteen Thousand men Compleat, with which Cromwell marches into Scotland, most of the Scots having left the Borders, and waisted the Country, so that the English Army found small resistance, but much want of Provi∣sions, yet they had a Fleet who waited their Motions at Sea, and Coasted it along to supply them. The Scotch Army in the mean time, lay encamped betwixt Edenbo∣row and Leith, being six thousand Horse and Dragoons, and fifteen thousand Foot. Cromwell advances within sight of the Scots, whom he found strongly incamped on the Hills, but on the 25th. of July he attempts one of the Hills, with a small Party, and beat off the Scots, but a party of the Scots Horse fell in upon their Rear so fu∣riously, that they began to be in disorder, till repulsed by Lambers and Whaly, who had the Rere Guard, in which Action Lambert had his Horse shot under him, and himself run thorow the Arm with a Lance, and ta∣ken Prisoner, but rescued by one Lieutenant Emson. Af∣ter this the English advance towards Muscleborough, where the Scots set upon them, betwixt three and four in the Morning, with fifteen hundred of their best Horse, un∣der the Command of Montgomery and Stranghan, and charged so furiously, that they had almost Pierced the whole Army, but in their return Okey met with them, and forced them back to their Camp with as much Speed, having lost an hundred men in the Action.

Whilst these things were doing in Scotland, the Junto are Active at home in suppressing all Persons from ap∣pearing for the Scots Interest, with all the Rigor imagi∣nable

and Doctor Levens a Doctor of the Civil Law be∣ing taken dispersing some Commissions from the King was tryed by their Court marshal, Condemned to be hang∣ed and Executed accordingly on the 13th. of July over against the Royal Exchange in London. And further to shew their inveterate Spite to the Royal Family, they cause the last Kings Statues to be broken to Pieces, and caused to be written under the Nick where one stood in the Royal Exchange: Exit Tyrannus Regum ul∣timus, Anno Libertatis Angliae restitutae primo, Anno{que} Domini, 1648. Now also was discovered a design of a rising to be in Lancashire for the King, in which were several of the Pres∣byterian Ministers in London, and others; upon which Mr. Cook of Grays-Inn, Mr. Gibbons, Mr. Potter, Doctor Drake, Jenkins, and Love, Presbyterian Ministers, were taken, and for which they were try'd by their murthering High Court of Justice, and about the Latter end of July, Gibbons, Potter, and that Incendiary Love were Executed: wherein 'tis remarkable that the Justice of God should so overtake this Person, so as to bring him to the Block (for he was beheaded) who by his preaching against the late King, broke off the Treaty at Uxbridge, and was the occasion of bringing that Royal Martyr to suffer un∣der the Ax.

But whilst they were shedding Blood at London, by their High Court of Justice, Cromwell was letting it forth in Scotland, with the Sword: for on the 3d. of September, was the famous Battel of Dunbar, which gain'd him so much Honour, and established his greatness in the Army, tho his Conduct in bringing his Army to those Streights they were in, being forced by despair to fight, did appear very ill on his side; for Cromwell's Army ve∣ry much wanting Provisions, were so far advanced, that they could not well return without Hazard, and I suppose he engaged himself the more boldly, for that he understood the differences in the Scotch Army, between the Rigid Kirk Party, and the other more moderate for the King, hoping, by his frequent Letters, and Decla∣rations of his pious Intentions towards the Presbyterians,

to bring most of them over to him, or at least to make such division amongst them, that he hoped to obtain an easie Victory. Cromwell had advanced within a Mile and an half of Edenborow, took a small Garrison, and Man'd it with English, but being still pressed with want of Provisions, he draws off to Penkland Hills, and thence to Dunbar, thinking that way to ship his men for Eng∣land, the Fleet attending; but the Scots perceiving the Advantage, and that he was in a strait, follow him close, and were now in a manner sure of a Victory. The Scots being about twenty four Thousand men, and dou∣ble the number of the English, who were weary and Faint, had they stayed, and not put them into Des∣pair, no doubt they had obtained their Desires; but fearing they should escape them, they followed them within a Mile of Dunbar, and drew up upon the Hills, at the Foot of which lay Cromwell, who now saw the streights into which he had brought himself, having only a Neck of Land to encamp on, whose breadth was not a Mile and an half, the Sea being on both sides, so that they were got into a perfect Pound, and the Scots hav∣ing possest all the Hills, he was in some Amazement; ship his men he could not without certain Loss: Next morning the Scots drew down to the Foot of the Hills, but there was a great Ditch between the Armies; but at a Village called Copperspeith between Dunbar and Ber∣wick, there was a Passage over the Hills, which it seems was strangely neglected by the Scots, too sure of the Vic∣tory: but Cromwell taking hold on the Advantage, hav∣ing with his field Pieces secured the Ditch, sent away a good Party of Horse and Foot to possess it. This gave the Scots an Alarm, and now they saw their Error, and that of necessity they must let the English pass home, or fight them. The Kirk Ministers being in the Councel of War, were extreamly against letting Agag go, as they called Cromwell, for that God had given him into their Hands, contrary to the Opinion of the more knowing Commanders: But upon this, there was a fierce Dispute at this Pass, which the English with much

Valour obtained, and possessed themselves of; The Ca∣non on both sides playing against the Bodies, the Battel began, the English word was The Lord with us, the Scot•• was The Covenant. The Scots first Charge put the Englis•• Horse into a little Confusion, but being stoutly seconde•• by the Foot, they Charg'd the Scots so home, that they put them to the Rout: which put their Foot into such Confusion and Disorder, that the English gained a ful•• and easie Victory, following the pursuit for eight Miles and slew and took Prisoners of them as many or more than they were themselves, there being four Thousand slain, and nine Thousand taken Prisoners, with all their Bag and Baggage, ten Thousand Armes, and all their Am∣munition, and with the loss of not above three hundred English. The Colours and the Purse and great Seal of Scotland there taken, were sent up to London; where was no small rejoycing among the Rumpers for this Vic∣tory: And the Colours ordered to be hung up in West∣minster-Hall. Some of the Scotch Ministers engaging were slain, in this fight. Cromwell it is said, in his great Necessity and straits before the fight, prayed to God and promised him, That if he would be pleased at thi•• time to deliver him, he would in return of the Fa∣vour, as soon as he came into England, take away Tythes▪ A pretty Vow to commit Sacriledge to obtain Mercy.

Upon this Loss, Cromwell pursues his Victory, and possesses himself of Leith and Edenborow, which the Scots had quitted, the King being retired to St. Johnstons, where were assembled their Committee of States. The Kirk Party began to lay their mis-fortunes upon the King, and said God had disowned them for bringing him into Scotland: And shewed so much insolence and ill be∣haviour to him, that he was no longer able to brook it, and therefore one morning, taking Horse as if he had been going to Hunting, he went privately towards the North, but the Scots fearing lest he should joyn with the High-Landers, and being somewhat humbled by Crom∣well, they sent after him Major General Montgomery, to intreat him to return, but with such a force, as it was

thought, would perform it by Compulsion, if he would not do it by Intreaty. But the King perswaded, returns to St. Johnstons, where the Committee of Estates being somewhat more Compliant, (thank Cromwell for that) many of the Kings friends were admitted to him. This made many dissatisfied Ministers withdraw themselves into the West, as Guthery, Gelaspy, Rutherford, and o∣thers, where they put forth a Remonstrance against the Proceedings of the Assembly, in the Admission of Ma∣lignants to Power and Employment, and with these Ker, Stranghan, Laird Warreston, Sr. John Cheisley, Sr. James Stewart, and others, joyn in Confederacy. These Broils made well for Cromwell, who found small Opposition. He took Ken Prisoner, and Edenborow Castle was surrendred to him on the 24th. of December 1650. This very much troubled the Scots, for after that Cromwell succeeded so well, that he took in all the Forts on this side of Sterling. In January the Scots Crown the King at Scoon, the ac∣customed place for the Coronation of the Kings of Scot∣land, which is not far from St. Johnstons, with great Pomp and Solemnity.

In the mean time, the Junto in England still sat, and Voted Liberty of Conscience to all, which was a most distasteful thing to the Presbyterians. Also they fell to levying of Souldiers, giving the Command to Harri∣son, now made Major General, a f••fth-Monarchy man, most of these men being raised by those sort of men, and the other Sectaries, with which this Army swarm∣ed, and the Presbyterian Interest daily declined, every where being called a most horrid Tyranny, and worse than the Prelacy. They also about this time formally receive Embassadors from Portugal, and Spain, who for Interest acknowledge their Power. All they did besides, was the constant Persecution of the Royal Party after their Tyrannical manner, Collonel Eusebius Andrews, a constant Loyalist, and firm to the interest of his King, being by Profession a Councellor of Grays-Inn, having been underhand Contriving some Insurrection, in the behalf of the King, was betray'd by some of his Con∣federates,

and taken at Gravesend, and after sixteen Weeks being Prisoner in the Tower, and several times examined, he was brought to his Tryal before their bloody High Court of Justice, Bradshaw sitting as Presi∣dent. Where he admirably pleaded his Cause, but the Attorney General Prideaux, over-ruled all, and told him the Court was not to take notice of his Law Cases, but of his Confession, and tho he had Acted no Treason, yet he had an Affection for Treason, and therefore de∣served Death: An excellent Mark of the Liberty of the Subject under Usurpers. And upon this learned distincti∣on, the Bloody Court proceeded to Sentence against him, that he should be Beheaded: Thus the Will of Usur∣pers is become Law. This Heroick Gentleman suffered ac∣cordingly on the 22d. of August 1650, on Tower-Hill, where he dyed with much Constancy, Magnanimity, and Christianity. In October following, one Benson, involved in the same Design with Collonel Andrews, was tryed and Condemned, by the aforesaid Tyrannical Court, and on the 7th. was Executed, being Hanged for his Loyalty. At the same time, was an Insurrection in Northfolk, which being suppressed, many suffered for the same in several places. In March following, the Grandees at W••stminster, by the same Arbitrary Power, after the Turkish Precedent, put to Death the Loyal Sr. Henry Hide, before the Ex∣change. It was Crime enough that he was a Royalist, and Brother to the afterwards Earl of Clarendon, then with the King. But his pretended Crime was, That he had been an Agent from the King, after the Death of his Royal Father, to the grand Signior. He was bred a Mer∣chant, and had a repute amongst the Turkish Company, and was by them made their Consul at Morea, and this Gentleman the King sent to the Port, in order to some private concerns, and not for the Confiscation of the Mer∣chants Estates, as the people were made to believe: but he being there, the Visiere was privately tampered with, who betray'd him, and sent him to England a Pri∣soner in the Ships thence bound for Smi••na, in one of which he was brought to London, and Committed to the

Tower, convented before the aforesaid Court, by whose Power he was Condemned and Beheaded as aforesaid, on the 4th. of March 1650. And now their Hands were in all went to Pot that came in their way; the April fol∣lowing Captain Brown Bushell was the next Criminal they Murthered for his Loyalty: he had long lain under re∣straint in the Tower, and almost starved for want of Su∣stinance, and at last being put into their Bloody Roll of such as were to be Tryed, he was called to their Bar, and Condemned. But his Wife solicited very hard for a Reprieve, which at last hey promised her, with which joyful News she repaired to her Husband, Comforting themselves together till four a Clock in the Afternoon, but had no sooner left him, with those flattering Hopes, but the Warrant came for his present Execution; they finding it seems that he was too well beloved by the Sea∣men, and wree in Fear of him, and so about six of the Clock at Night they put him to Death, on the Ground under the Scaffold on Tower-Hill; which he suffered with much Resolution.

In the mean time Cromwell was very watchful and Di∣ligent, and endeavoured all he could, tho not with any success, to engage the Scots Army, which was drawn up at Sterling, where the King was with them. But the King having a Design to pass into England, waved en∣gaging, with as much Care, as the other, flush'd with Victory and Success, sought it, who was come within sight of the Scotch Army. In Lancashire several expected his coming, and were ready to rise upon his approach, tho disappointed by the Rumps Vigilancy: Cromwell, for want of Provisions, was forced to remove, and attempt∣ed to get over to Fife side: It was about this time, that several rude fits of an Ague shook him so shrewdly, that there was an equal engagement of Hopes and Fears on the side of either party, of his marching into ano∣ther world; Doctor Write and Dr. Bates, two eminent Physicians, being sent from London, to administer Physick to him, being brought very low. But at last by the help of these Doctors, who had the charge of him, by the

Junto's order, he recovered, to the sorrow of the Royal Party. At last, the English under Collonel Overton, with about fifteen or sixteen thousand Foot, and four Troop•• of Horse, with much difficulty, forced their Landing; Cromwell drawing up close to the Scots at the same time, with all his Forces, with an intention to fall upon their Rere, if they should attempt to beat them out of Fife. Yet the Scots sent four thousand Horse and Foot, under Sir John Brown, which Cromwell having notice of, sent over Lambert and Okey, with two Regiments of Horse and Foot, and engaging with him, defeated him, took him with many others prisoners, having slain about two thousand of the Scots. This gave the English firm foot∣ing in Fife, and they easily took in several places on that side the Frith. And now the King was necessitated to fol∣low his design, in marching for England; and whilst Cromwell went about to set upon S. Johnston's, that he might make himself Master of the Pass at Sterlin, which he took after a days siege, the King marches for England from Sterlin, by the way of Carlile, with about sixteen thousand complete. This News gave Cromwell an allarm, and immediately he dispatches a Messenger with Letters to his Masters in England, to inform them of it; and to comfort them, believing they would entertain no plea∣sant thoughts thereat, giving them an account of his suc∣cesses, and that they should have confidence in God, and should improve the best they could, what Forces they had in readiness, and should raise more, and not be a∣fraid; for the Enemy was heart-smitten, and were in a desperate condition, with such like stuff. In the mean time, he orders Major General Harrison, and Collonel Rich, who were on the Borders, to attend the motion of the King's Army, until he were able to come up to them with his Forces. The Parliament, notwithstand∣ing his canting Le••ters▪ began to be jealous of him, and spoke big words against him, which came to his ears, and which he remembred afterwards to their cost. In the mean time, Lambert, with about three thousand Horse and Dragoons is speeded after the King; and pre∣sently

after, Cromwell himself follows, the same day the King enters England, which was on the sixth of August, having departed from Sterlin the last of July. On his entring into England, he was proclaimed as he went; and pardon offered to all sorts of persons, excepting Cromwell, Bradshaw, Cook, and some others the most immediate Murtherers of his Father. At the same time a Party in North-Wales began to rise, to joyn with the Earl of Dar∣by, but were broken and disappointed. The King with his wearied Men, on the two and twentieth of August comes to Worcester, being beset before and behind, by the new raised Forces, Cromwell, Lambert and Harrison. The Militia of London, and of several Counties, flock to Worcester; so that by that time Cromwell was come up to them, they had formed an Army of forty thousand men, or more. The Earl of Darby brought to the King two hundred and fifty foot, and sixty Horse; and having rai∣sed about twelve hundred more in Lancashire, and those parts, he was engaged by Lilburn, and routed, and se∣veral persons of Quality taken. By this time, Cromwell had close begirt Worcester, and the King's Party beheld themselves in a very bad condition, hemm'd in on all sides with numerous Foes, and now too late saw their error, of not marching directly to London, which was dreaded by the Junto, and which was earnestly desired and expected by the Londoners, who wanted only a fuller security of shewing their inclinations for the King, be∣ing over-awed, and hindered through fear from de∣claring.

But God did not see it good, that the King should be brought to the Throne, by any other hand than that of Peace, and by his own Subjects of England, intending to shew him a more immediate care of his miraculous pro∣vidence, in his preservation, and that he might not be subject to the Presbyterians for their assistance, nor be∣holden to them for his Crown; he was resolved to bring him in after a more glorious manner.

Nothwithstanding the great disadvantages the Scots were in, they were resolved with much courage to sell

their lives as dear as they could, and that the English should not find it an easie purchase. The first consider∣able Engagement was at Upton Bridge, on Fleetwood's side, who was Lieutenant General of the Army, where Lambert with five hundred Horse and Dragoons, beat Collonel Massy, who endeavoured to maintain it. But the fatal day was on the third of September, auspicious to Cromwell the last year in his fight at Dunbar. It is not my design to draw you the Scheme of the Battel, intending only in these Papers to shew more particularly things of another nature: this Action has been sufficiently made known; therefore I shall only very briefly mention it. The Scots, to give them their due, and the little handful of English that were with them, fought bravely, and shewed great courage and resolution, disputing every Field with their numerous Enemies, and coming to the But-end of their Muskets, and Push of Pike with them, covering the Field, where they stood, with their Bodies. The King in person charged in one of the Sallies from the Town, shewing extraordinary Valour, Conduct and Courage; in which Charge, Duke Hamilton, Brother to the Duke that was beheaded, was shot, and died sudden∣ly after of his Wound. But towards the Evening, the English, charging most furiously, with Crom∣well in the head of them, enter'd with the retreat∣ing Scots into the Town, and possessed themselves of the Fort Royal: Then it was the King, with the Duke of Buckingham, the Earl of Derby, and some others, and a∣bout sixty Horse fled, being narrowly miss'd by Cobbet; but the Foot falling to plunder the Town, (which they did with great barbarity) kept out the Horse, for fear they should share with them, which favoured his Majesties Escape, who got that night to White-Ladies, where he was disguised, and all the rest departing several ways, he was committed to the fidelity of the Pendrills, being in the disguise of a Wood-Cutter, with a Bill in his hand, and for some time lay hid in the Celebrated Oak in Bosco∣b••l Wood: thence conveyed to Mr. Whitegrave's at Mosely, whence, as a Servant to Mrs. Jane Lane, he went to

Bristol: but missing a passage there, after many signal Marks of God's Providence, in his miraculous Escape, at least fifty several persons having been made privy to it, he at last, with the Lord Wilm••t, embarked at Brightemsted in Suffex, and was carried over by one Tetersell, Master of the Vessel, who afterwards was a Captain of one of his Majesties Frigats, and got safe to Diep in France, to the great joy of all his Friends.

The Scots lost in this Battel, about two thousand slain upon the place, and in the pursuit, and about eight thousand Prisoners; very few of the Scots got back to Scotland, being known by their Tongue, and pick'd up in their return by the Country: most of the Nobility and chiefest Commanders were taken, and carried Prisoners to London, with all their Ensigns: many of the chiefest Prisoners of the Nobility were kept in Windsor-Castle, till the King's Restoration: the Colours were hanged up in Westminster-Hall; and several of the common Soldiers sold to Merchants, and sent away as Slaves to the Barbadoes, and other Plantations. Comwell himself in great tri∣umph passes to London, being met at Acton by the Speak∣er, and Members of the Junto, the Lord Mayor of Lon∣don, and Steel their Recorder, who in a flattering Speech applauded his great Atchievments, applying to him the words of the Psalmist: To bind their kings in chains, and their nobles in fetters of iron.

And now the way to the ambitioned Throne seem'd open, few Obstacles remaining, except the Junto them∣selves, which he had made so odious to the people, by their bloody, tyrannous and arbitrary Actions, that he knew it would be very grateful to them, to have them dissolv'd. Ireton was dead in Ireland, who had been a great Assistant to him in promoting him; but it was thought he was so true a Common-wealths-man, that he would not have suffered Cromwell to have grasped the Scepter, and to have set up himself in the place of the Mo∣narch he had pull'd down; and since he was now able to act himself without his Councils, he was but a Rub out of his way; almost all Ireland being subdued, and under

his subjection; Ludlow being Lieutenant General of th•• Army there, and one active in the reducing the Re∣mainder left unfinished by Ireton. On the other hand General Monk, whom he had left in Scotland with seven thousand men, had taken Sterlin, Dundee, Perth, and all the strong Holds in Scotland; S. Andrews, Aberdeen, and all the Castles surrendred upon Summons; so that Scotland as well as Ireland was at his devotion, and three Kingdoms he hoped to make a prey of: and to make them more sure, and to unite them into one, they en∣ter'd upon the project of having each Kingdom incor∣porated with England, like Wales, by causing them to elect their several Members to sit in the English Parlia∣ment. And now that he might yet make the Junto more odious, he puts them on the ordinary Drudgery, of taking away the lives of such of the Royal Party, as he thought might be any hinderance to his Designs, by their arbitrary way of Tryal, in their High Court of In∣justice, or by a Court-Marshal; and thus, as the saying is, he killed two Birds with one Stone, rid his Opposers out of the way, and made his Instruments odious, that he might with the more safety lay them aside, when he saw his time.

The Earl of Derby was the first that felt the bloody severity of these Rulers at Westminster, who appointed a Court-Marshal to sit at Chester for his Tryal, and several others that were taken at the Battel of Worcester; where he was sentenced to be beheaded, tho he had surrendred himself upon Articles, and promise of his life to one Captain Edge; but notwithstanding his plea, the arbi∣trary Court condemn'd him, and he was executed at Bolton in Lancashire, the fifteenth of October, 1651. And by the same Court, Sir Timothy Fetherstone-haugh was condemned, and for the same crime of Loyalty, for endeavouring to bring in Charles Stewart, (as they called the King) and to possess him (of his Right) the Crown of England, who was beheaded at Chester, the twenty second day of the same month: likewise by the same Court, Captain Benbow was condemned, and ac∣cording to their Sentence shot to Death at Shrewsbury.

And Captain Symkins in another place. Many more of note were put into the Tower, and reserved for a further Exercise of their Cruelty.

And now the way to the Crown did not seem very Difficult, for Jersy, Isie of Man, and the Barbadoes yield to their Power; and Oliver in the next place bent all his thoughts to turn this ••ump of a Parliament out of Doors, having done with them as much Mischief as he well could: He looks now very big upon them; and had shewn by his behaviour, the Resentment he had of their former sawcy Expostulation of his management of the Af∣fairs in Scotland, and when he came into the House they all Crouch'd, and the fauning Speaker made his Panegy∣rick, with palpable Flattery, notwithstanding it was moved in the House, by some of his Creatures, that this House should be dissolved, and Care taken for another to be Chosen; but this was a bitter Potion they knew not how to swallow. And upon this the Levellers are again set to work and Countenanced, who before were so much Cry'd down, that they might bait them to a Dissolution, and that he might be Lord Paramount in Nomine, as well as he was already in Re. But yet there were two Obsta∣cles in his Way: The first was, the Duke of Gloucester was too near him, he was yet a Prisoner in Scarborow Ca∣stle; him he causes to be removed, and sent away into Holland; which was done by the order of the Junto, to the no small joy of his Friends, that he had escaped out of the cruel Claws of these Bears with Life. This rub being removed, another more Difficult appeared, which was the War with Holland, and he very Rationally con∣cluded, it would be too hard a Task for him, to make War both abroad with them and at home with his own Common-wealth, which he intended to pull down: Considering what a small share he had of the Love of the people, and that he was to ••et up himself, and Establish his rule and Arbitrary Sway, by the Power of the Army only: and for this Reason, he was forced to let his Journy-men continue their Seats a little longer, and wait the Issue of this War.

This War being foreseen, to quiet the Peoples minds, they pass an Act of Grace or Oblivion, a Pardon for all Hostilities past, with an Intention of forgetting all Inju∣ries, but upon Condition, of taking an Ingagement, which they imposed upon the People, wherein they pro∣mise and Ingage, To be true and Faithful to the Common-wealth of England, as then Established, without King or House of Lords. But out of this Act, The Lord Goring and his Sons, Sr. John Webster, The executors of the Arch-Bishop of Canterbury, and the Murtherers of Dori∣slaus and Ascham were excepted.

Still several Addresses, Petitions, Declarations, and Desires, came from divers Counties, and Places, to the Parliament, for the putting a Period to their sitting, and for providing for future Representatives, which Perplext them; and were very distastful; seeing them so pressing, and after many put offs, and Reasons for their Continu∣ance, they were forced to comply, and resolved that the longest Day of their Sitting should be the 5th. of Novem∣ber, in the Year, 1654. two years too long, as Cromwell thought; for he intended their Reign should be shorter, but his Projects being not yet Ripe, he awaited his opor∣tunity. About the latter end of this year, they made an Act to banish John Lilburn, who was very troublesome to them, and whom it seems Oliver was much afraid of, Knowing him to be an Enemy to his Ambitious Proceed∣ings, and very popular. It was provided by this Act, that if he returned without leave from the State, he should suffer as a Felon.

Preparations for War being made on both sides, the States of Holland, seeing the English make an Act so Pre∣judicial to their Trade, and to prepare to maintain it a∣gainst them, being somewhat fearful of the Event, sent over their Embassadors, Myn Heeren Cate, Vander-Peer, Sharp, and Newport, who found our English States very high, and made such demands, that the Dutch could not yield to, and so in the beginning of the year 1652 they get their Fleets to Sea, well Man'd and Equipped, Mar∣ten Harpers Vantrump, being the Admiral for the Dutch.

Popham being Dead, Dean and Blake are Admirals for the English, to whom afterwards General Monk was joyned, and for that end sent for out of Scotland, he having quiet∣ed all things there. The Dutch knowing the English laid claim to the Dominion of the narrow Seas, as their just Right and Due, had Commanded their Captains not to acknowledge their Soveraignty, by denying to strike their Flag, at the meeting of the English Ships in their own Seas, an Affront they knew would never be put up by the English, but ever was and ever will be disputed and revenged; upon this Quarrel the War be∣gan, Captain Young who commanded some of the English Frigots, seeing some Dutch Ships returning from the Streights, commanded their Admiral to strike his Flag, who did so, but their Vice-Admiral being likewise bid to do the same, absolutely refused, but after four or five Broad-sides was forced to take it down, and so they part∣ed, their Embassadors being yet in Treaty, and in Eng∣land; Captain Young was unwilling to Prosecute the bu∣siness any farther, lest they should attribute to him the beginning of the War, which thus first began. But not long after they fell to it in Earnest. It shall not be my Task to give you a particular of this War, it being be∣sides my Business, in which the English shewed great Courage, and Bravery; and in all Histories the like not to be parallel'd, and therefore I shall not altogether pass it o∣ver in silence, but briefly touch upon it for the Satisfacti∣on of the Reader, who cannot but be pleased at their Success as English-men, tho otherwise Rebels to their King and Countrey.

The first Engagement between the two Fleets of the two States, was on 19th. of May 1652; off of Do∣ver Road, Tromp having forty two Ships, Blake but fifteen Frigots, but after the fight was begun, Captain Bourn: came to his Assistance with eight Ships more, this fight lasted from two of the Clock till Night; the English getting the better, having not one Ship disabled, tho they had on both sides Exchanged above two Thousand Cannon shot, one of Dutch Ships was Sunk, and an∣other

taken: the next Morning Van-Trump sailed for Zea∣land. The Holland Embassadors were yet in London, and dis-avow Tromp's Action in disputing the Flag▪ as Rash and without Orders, or knowledge of their Masters; and de∣sired a Restitution of their Ship, but the people were so inflamed at the Relation of Tromp's Cariage, that the Embassadors were fain to be Guarded to keep them safe from the Peoples rage: And upon this the Holland States dispatch away an extraordinary Embassador, Myn Heer-Paw, to endeavour to make up the Breach, and to Ex∣cuse the rashness of their Admiral. The Parliament hereupon Voted▪ that, The States General should Pay the Charges they had been at, and the Losses sustained upon this Occasion. Secondly, That this being Paid, there should be a Restitution on either side of Ships and Goods taken. Third∣ly, That a League should be made between the two States. These Votes were sent to the Dutch Embassadors, and they Communicated them to their Masters; who liking them not, immediately recalled their Embassadors, and began Vigorously to prosecute the War.

Admiral Blake with seventy Ships sails to the Orkney Islands, to disturb their Busses fishing upon our Coasts, and Sr. George Ascue coming from the Barbadoes, with fif∣teen Ships is recruited and fitted for a reserve. In the mean time Tromp gets to Sea with a hundred and twenty Ships, and endeavours to engage with Blake, but a Storm preventing them, they were forced both Home: Blake carry∣ing with him about nine hundred Prisoners, which he had taken, and six men of War, which he took Guarding their Busses, This was the first Action after War was declared.

The second Engagement between these two States, was on the 16th. of August following, off of Plimouth, between Sr. George Ascue, who had forty sail, and De Ruyter who had a Fleet of fifty men of War; and was conveying thorow the Channel their Merchant men which were about fifty sail more. Sr. George engaged the Dutch, with nine of his foremost Ships, and Charged thorow their Fleet: the Dutch had the Wea∣ther-gage, and night coming on, and the rest of the

Fleet not coming up, Sr. George Ascue drew off and sail∣ed for Plymouth, and the Dutch into the French Ports to repair their Ships. Sr. George had the better of it, and had the whole Fleet engaged, it was thought he might have had an entire Victory. This was so represented to the Rump to his disadvantage, that they laid him aside, and never after would employ him in their Service, but then General Monk was sent for, and Voted by the Jun∣to to be joyned in Commission with Blake and Dean. This was the second fight with the Dutch in this War. About this time Blake lighting on the French at Calis took seven of their Ships, and assisting the Spaniards besieging Dunkirk, was a cause of the surrender of the Town by the Service he did.

On the 28th. of October was a Third fight, between the English and the Dutch, Van-Tromp upon some discontent having laid down his Commission, they made Wit Wittens Admiral, to whom they joyned De Ruiter: Blake had taken from the Dutch five west India Ships of great Va∣lue, and six Steights men Valued at 200000 l. which los∣ses enraged the Dutch, and put them into Fury to fight. Pen was Vice-Admiral, and Bourn Rear-Admiral of the English Fleet, who began this Battel; great Courage be∣ing shown on both sides: the Rear Admiral of the Dutch was taken, two of their Ships sunk, and a Third blown up; the English, getting the better, Wittens got off with his Fleet, much shatter'd and Torn, being pursued within twelve Leagues of the Maze; and Blake returns into the Downs Victorious, having made the Dutch run for it.

The Dutch much troubled at this mis-fortune perswade Van-Tromp to accept of the Command, knowing him to be an able Seaman; who at last yielded to their Desires, and hopes to gain honour against the English: with eighty men of War, and ten fire Ships, he comes to the back of the Godwin. Blake had with him now not above forty sail, yet with them resolves to give Battel, and seeking his Enemy began a most furious and obstinate in∣counter, on the 29th. of November 1652. which lasted from two in the Morning till six at Night. Blake in the

Tryumph, with two more of his Ships were ingaged at one time with twenty of the best Ships of the Dutch. Van-Tromp and De Ruyter were much shattered; one of their Flag ships was blown up, but the Dutch over-powering them, got the Victory, and had not Night favoured the retreat of the English Fleet they had endanger'd the whole. The Garland and Bona-venture were taken by the Dutch, three sunk, and one burnt. Van-Trump kept the Sea, and took some inconsiderable Prizes; which pufft him up with so much Vanity, as to cause him hang a Broom at his main top Mast; saying he would sweep the Seas of the English ship. This was the fourth Engagement.

The maintaining of this War against the potent Dutch, gained such Reputation to these English States, as they were called, that the French by the Advice of Mazereen, sent Monsieur Bourdeaux as an Agent from the French King, to acknowledge them. This Action of the French gave great distaste to all the King of England's Friends, but this Peace with England preserved the Cardinal, being in some danger from the Princes of France. And now to maintain this War the Junto lay a heavy Tax upon the People of 120000 l. a Month.

Monk and Dean being come out of Scotland are joyn∣ed with Blake, and the Fleet equipping with all Expedi∣tion; which the Dutch States hearing of, sent away to Van-Tromp, who was at Sea; Conducting home three hundred sail of Merchant men, with seventy six men of War; and Commanded him to Block up the Thames, to hinder the English Fleet from coming forth; but to their great Amazement, the English got their Ships to Sea, and joyning those at Ports-mouth made up eighty sail, and o∣ver against Portland lay half Seas over expecting the Dutch. On the 18th. of February they discry'd them, and about eight in the Morning the fight began. Blake and Dean who were in the Tryumph, with twelve Ships more, encounter'd the Gross of the Dutch Fleet; but was relieved at last by Lawson, who performed his part exceeding Well. The Ship in which General Monk was, being a slow Sailor could not so soon come up to engage

as he would have had it, but he had a great share in the Fight, and lost many men aboard her. This Fight last∣ed three days, and the Triumph wherein two of the Ge∣nerals were, received seven hundred Cannon shot in their H••ll. The next day being Saturday, and the nine∣teenth of Feb. 1652. assoon as the English could over∣take the Dutch, they engaged them again in the After∣noon, which was fought with much fury, Tromp still en∣deavouring to save his Merchant Men, fought retreating, putting them before him; but spite of his teeth he lost many of them, which were picked up by the English, with some of his Men of War. The third day in the Morning, being the twentieth, the fight was again re∣newed, and continued very fierce till four in the After∣noon; but the Wind being cross to the English, Van Tromp got at last to Callais Sands, and so tyded it home. The Dutch lost in the three days Fight eleven Men of War, and thirteen Merchants Ships, and had killed about fifteen hundred Men. The English lost but one Ship, but had not many less slain than the Enemy. This was the fifth Engagement in which the English got much the better. About this time they erected their High Court of Justice in Ireland, by which many of the Irish suffered; among the rest the noted Rebel Sir Phelim Oneal was hanged at Dublin.

The year 1652 being worn out, and the Dutch being by their several losses humbled, the King's Party crush∣ed and impoverished, now the Tax for the maintenance of the Dutch War coming in, and filling the Treasury, 120000 pounds every month, the State owned by the French, and himself caressed privately by Mazareen, with whom he had secret intelligence; but what was more, the arbitrary Junto perfectly hated by the People, he thought it now a convenient time to step into the Throne, and to usurp the supreme ••ower and Authority, and to take the Government into his own hands. To this end, he holds several Consults with the Officers of the Army, and much fasting and praying there was a∣mong them, an extraordinary Work being to be done.

Cromwell cajol'd them all; Lambert was deceiv'd in his hopes of succeeding Oliver, which he had made him to believe he intended. Harrison was for pulling these old Representatives out of their Seats, to make way for the Rule of the Saints. Cromwell knew how to please them all, that he might by them work his ends. All the Party Harrison could make among the Congregations of Feak, Rogers, Simson, and the rest of that Gang, were for Cromwell, and all impatient to have the Parliament outed: and to help forward, there came forth dayly from the Army, Petitions, Addresses, Remonstrances, and such like Papers, for putting an end to this Parliament. But notwithstanding all the specious pretences, for the putting an end to this Parliament, many of the Officers very well perceived the drift of Cromwell, and what all would end in, viz. his getting the Monarchy into his own hands, which troubled them much; and some of them made open protests against it; for they that could not endure the Rule of a single person, in their Lawful Prince, could much less endure to be tyrannized over by the arbitrary power of their equal. The chief of them that opposed his design, were Collonel Venables, Scout-Master-General Downing, Major Streater and others; Streater went about to give his Reasons to the contrary, telling them that Cromwell design'd to set up himself, and that it was a betraying of their most glorious Cause, for which so much Blood had been spilt: but Harrison inter∣rupted him, and told him, that he was assured, the Ge∣neral did not seek himself in it, and did it to make way for the Rule of Jesus, that he might have the Scepter. To whom Streater replyed, That unless Christ came very suddenly, he would come too late. For this opposition, Cromwell looks on him as his mortal Enemy, and claps him up into the Gate-House. The Junto was very sensible of these Actings, but knew not which way to prevent them, yet they did what they could to make these Officers un∣derstand the inconveniences that would happen, by a sudden dissolving them, and that it would be the only way to preserve the Nation, to fill up the House with

new elected Members, which would please the people, and their Acts would be received with greater Authority. But the Army answered them, they were grown so car∣nal and corrupt, that the people of God could expect no good from them, and that they would take care, that the supreme Government of the Land should be placed in the hands of such as truly feared God, and were of approved integrity.

These Debates between the Parliament and the Army spun out some time, at the Junto went about cunningly to secure themselves, by preparing an Act for the filling up their House, wherein such speed was made, that it was near passing the House. Cromwell being nettled, re∣solves to stay no longer; and to his Council of Officers he shewed, That if they should let the people to chuse new Representatives, it was a tempting of God, who would save them by the hands of a few, as in former times, and that five or six godly upright men might do more in one day, than the Parliament had done, or would do in a hundred. Upon this he takes with him Lambert, Harrison, and about eight more Officers of the Army, and on the three and twentieth day of April, 1653, he enters the House, and there after a short Speech, shewing them some reasons for the necessity of their being dissolved, he peremptorily declared them to be dissolved. But the Speaker refusing to leave the Chair, Cromwell began to huff, and fall into a passion, telling them they were a company of drunkards, whoremasters, Hipo∣crites, Knaves and Oppressors, and commanded that the Bauble the Mace should be took from them, and no more carried before them; and Harrison taking the Speaker by the Arm, lifted him out of his Chair; and having thus turn∣ed them out of doors, he lock'd them up, and set a Guard of Soldiers at them, and at all the Avenues, that they might not meet again in that place; and thus exeunt Tyranni, one Devil driving out another, to make way at last for their Lawful Prince. This done, Cromwell re∣turning to his Council of Officers, told them of his Ex∣ploit, and let them know that now they must go hand in

hand with them, and justifie it by their lives and for∣tunes, they having advised him to it. He told them, that when he went to the House, he did not think to do it, but perceiving the Spirit of God so strongly upon him, he would no longer consult Flesh and Blood; for the Parliament intended to have perpetuated themselves. This Action of his, tho arbitrary, illegal, and tyranni∣cal, was generally applauded by all sorts of people, these Rumpers were grown so very odious by their tyrannick Usurpation. And the King's Friends both at home and abroad, were not a little joyful to see this Turn, and to behold them dethroned and trampled on, even in the midst of their Laurels, obtained for their Victories over the Dutch. Grievous Muttering they kept for this vio∣lence done to them by their Servant, as they stiled him, thinking it none, when he did the like to those secluded Members, that would not vote with them against the King: but as mad as they were, they saw no help for it, and it was not possible for them to get together, tho they would not own themselves dissolved; and thus our usur∣ping Junto went out like a Snuff, with a Stink, smelling very unsavourly in the Nostrils of the whole Nation.

Thus far have I traced out to you, the Lines of the Image of Arbitrary, and Tyrannick Usurpation, and how ugly and grim a Representation it is, you who have seen it truly delineated may judge. You have seen this Titular Parliament unjustly seize upon the Government, by mur∣thering their King, and against all Laws thrust out two of the States of the Land, the Lords Spiritual first, and then the Lords temporal, and having now grasp'd the Government with rapacious hands, with the like In∣justice and Arbitrariness, turn the greater part of their own Members out of Doors, and rule by a few bloody and tyrannical Usurpers. You have likewise seen after what manner they have swayed the three Nations, by their own Arbitrary Wills and Pleasures, as so many law∣less Tyrants, upholding an Army only to cut the Peoples Throats, and to over-awe them, burthening them with Taxes, and oppressing them with a standing Army, and

free Quarter, taking away their lives by an Arbitrary Court of Justice, contrary to the known Laws of the Land, and robbing and spoiling all men of their Estates, that opposed them, filling the Jayls thorowout the three Kingdoms with Prisoners: The Liberties of the Subject overthrown, Magna Charta, and all the Laws and An∣cient Constitutions of Parliaments trodden under foot, and disregarded, so as no man could call any thing his own: And in fine, all the People of England made Slaves, by these the Keepers of their Liberties; so that it was no wonder, that there was a general rejoycing at their fall, tho as yet it was but out of the Frying-pan in∣to the Fire, having exchanged two hundred Tyrants for one, as Lawless, Boundless, and Arbitrary as they; or a Rump for an Oliver.

I should now proceed to give a further Display of this Arbitrary and Tyrannical Government, under the Usur∣pation of Oliver Cromwell, who had pull'd these down, only to set up himself: but before I enter upon it, I think it will not be ungrateful to the Reader, and not imperti∣nent to my Design, to shew you what a sort of men these were, who had thus long usurped, by a brief Character of some of the chiefest of them, and what benefit they made of their pretended Godliness, giving one another Estates, out of the Kings, Queens, Bishops, Deans and Chapters, and Delinquents Lands.

And I will begin with Oliver Cromwell, the Lucifer of the rest, who out-witted them all, and ruled by himself, with greater Power, and more absolute Sway, than ever any Monarch of England did. He was very well de∣scended, of a Knightly Family, in the County of Hun∣tington, being born in S. John's Parish in the Town of Huntington, the twenty fifth of April, 1599, being the Son of Mr. Robert Cromwell: who was the third Son of Sir Henry Cromwell, a Gentleman of great worth, hono∣red and beloved in Court and Country, whose eldest Son Sir Oliver Cromwell, a Gentleman well known for his Loyalty, and Uncle to this our Oliver, was his God-father, and gave him his Name. His Mother was th••••

Daughter of Sir Richard Steward, of Ely. They there∣fore were much mistaken, who said he was the Son of a Brewer, tho indeed his Mother, (even in his Father's Life-time) did manage a Brew-House, by their Servants, and after her Husbands death, continued the same, as an honest means of Livelyhood, the Patrimony of a young∣er Brother being but small. He was observed in his Youth to be ambitious, willful and head-strong, which improved with his years, and always, and upon all oc∣casions exercised the Impostor, under the mask of Hy∣pocrisie. However, he was bred at School, where he got some smattering in the Rudiments of Learning, but was so violent and head-strong, and so very prone to robbing Orchards and Dove-Houses, that he grew the terror of the Country, and past his Tutor's Correction. It was about that time he dream'd he should be King of England; if it were not more than a Dream, a suggestion of some evil Spirit; for he would often confidently report it in his Youth, tho rebuked by his Father for it, and flash'd by his Master Dr. Bernard, for his constant avouching it. And acting in a Play in the School, going beyond his Cue, he took a Crown, and put it on his own Head, and as if inspired, spake some big words with great au∣thority. Thence he was translated to Cambridge, where he was more noted for Foot-ball, Cudgelling, and Wrestling, than for his Studies, to which he little gave his mind; and after his Father's death left the Universi∣ty; and returning home, fell to all manner of Licenti∣ousness and Debauchery, and grew so distastful to his Mother and Neighbourhood, that she sent him away to London, and enters him into Lincolns-Inn, intending to make him a Lawyer; but finding this place not agreeable to his humor, he stayed not long before he returned back into the Country, where he fell to his old Trade of De∣bauchery, always fighting, and in Quarrels, tho with Pedlars, Tinkers, and such like Fellows, skillful in hand∣ling the Quarter-Staff, so that none could over-match him. This kind of life he led till he had spent his Pa∣trimony, and almost ruined his Mother; hated by the

Country for his many Villanies committed, especially by his Uncle and God-father Sr. Oliver, who could not endure to have him named. At last beginning to per∣ceive his ruin, he feigned a Conversion; went to Church among the orthodox Divines, and so far insinuated him∣self with them, that they deal with his Mothers Uncle Sr. Robert Stewart, a Gentleman of a Competent Estate in the Country, to take him into Favour, and to de∣clare him his Heir, and who dying soon after, left him an Estate of five hundred pound a year; which quickly mouldred away, he having left of it not above forty or fifty Pounds a year. He then falls in with the Non-conformist Ministers; entertains them at his House, has Lectures, and exercises himself in Preaching and Praying, about which time he marries the Daughter of Sr. James Boucher; her name Elizabeth, and Kins-woman to Mr. Hambden of Buckinghamshire, and turns Farmer for five years with ill success, but still continuing his Preach∣ing and Praying, was so much follow'd by the Faction; that they by a wile got him to be chosen a Burgess, for Cambridge, in the Parliament of 1640. when he was at his last Gasp, and thinking to have Transplanted him∣self to New-England, and raised Mony for that pur∣pose, which enabled him to stand a Candidate for Parli∣ament man. And now joyning with Hambden, Pym, and the rest of them, he began to blow up the Coals of Se∣dition; and to be noted amongst them, tutored by them, till he grew quickly able to out-Wit them in their own Pernicious designs. But now having spent the utmost farthing of his Estate, and run in Debt, he was pri∣viledged from Arrests, by being a Member of Parlia∣ment; and now he betakes him into the Army, where he was a Captain under Essex, and where he became so Active and busie, that he soon advanc'd himself, to be Lieutenant General to the Earl of Manchester.

I crave Pardon of the Reader for this Digression, for I intend not to write his Life, but what I have related, may let you see what this great Man was ab origine, and therefore I shall say no more of his Actions in the Ar∣my,

they being sufficiently known in Story, and how gradually he came to his Command of General, in the Army; part of which, as far as came within my Pro∣vince that I have undertook, appears by the aforegoing▪ Discourse, whereby it is plainly manifested, by what Methods he attained his Greatness and Usurpation. I could say no less of this their Ring-Leader, who deserves a more particular Character, being so Notorious through∣out Christendom, and Famous for his Actions and U∣surpation; I shall not be so prolix in the rest, but only name them to you. They say his Family descended from a branch of that Cromwell, in Henry the 8th. dayes, who ruined the Abbies, and was fatal to the Popish Clergy, as this was to the Protestant Episcopacy; and that the Lineal descent, was from one Williams of Glamorgan-shire, who marrying the Daughter of that Cromwell, took on him the Name and transfer'd it to his Posterity; but the di∣rect Line of that Cromwell, is continued in the Lord Crom∣well, and Earl of Arglass in Ireland. This our Oliver was a man, (as you have found by what I have related of him) of many Vices, of deep Dissimulation and Hy∣pocrisie, and tho no great Schollar, of great improved Parts; of a strong robust Constitution, and naturally Martial, of deep reach, and a great Politician, after he had Conversed with Ireton his Son-in-Law, who taught him his Art. He had some Spice of Generosity in him, which he shewed on some Occasions, whether it was in his Nature, or Designedly, is to be doubted. But for his Courage and Resolution, and skill in Martial Discipline, that is not to be questioned; and tho I cannot think he real∣ly embraced any Religion, as his particular Judgment, yet he embraced all that he found subservient to his Ends, as may be perceived by his Actings and Intreagues, with the Presbyterians and Independants, and all the other Secta∣ries, which were all alike to him; and no doubt Episco∣pacy it self, would have been as pleasing to his Conscience, could he have Established his Usurpation by it. It was not therefore his Love of Vertue or Religion, that made him thrust out all Vice from his Army; but that he

knew it would naturally ruin it, and that a strict Discip∣line, and the Face of some Religion, would preserve it; so that he never permitted among his Souldiers, Swearing, Drunkenness, Profaneness, Murther, Rapine, or Uncleanness; but punishing them Severely, his Camp was like a well regulated Common-wealth, and had he not been a Rebel, and employed his Parts to so wicked an end, as the Destruction of his King and Country; for the setting up himself, he might have passed among the Worthies of this Nation, and lawfully have become eminent in his Generation. He had two Sons, Richard and Henry (besides one that dyed young) and four Daughters, one married to Ireton, afterwards to Fleetwood, one to the Lord Fawkenbridge, one to Mr. Cleypool, which he much lov'd, and was his second Daughter, and one to the Lord of Warwicks Grand-child Mr. Rich, which was his youngest. Cromwell as well as the rest had a share in the Spoil, before he came to grasp all into the Paws of his Protector-ship, to which we have brought him, but we now consider him as a Rumper, and by an Ordinance of that Parliament was conferred on him, out of the Mar∣quess of Worcester's Estate 2500. pounds a year; a good Competency, tho some say the said Lands so settled upon him, at their improved Vallue, were worth to him five Thousand if not six Thousand pounds a year; besides four or five pound a day coming in as Lieutenant General, and Collonel of Horse in the Army.

Ireton the Scribe, as some called him, being excellent at drawing Declarations, Petitions, and such like things, to serve his politick Ends, was a man of a deep Reach, of much Dispatch, of very dexterous and able Parts, he was Cromwell's right Hand, and was a great Contriver of his greatest Designs, and Stratagems; He was a Com∣mon-wealth's man of the truest Stamp, and it is thought, had he lived, Cromwell had not assumed that Power to himself, which he had helpt him to mount to, by de∣stroying the Government, which Advantage, Cromwell af∣ter his death laid hold on: He married Cromwell's eldest Daughter, and tho poor before the Wars, liv'd very

splendidly kept his rich Coach gilt, that cost two hun∣dred pounds; and four gallant Horses: He lick'd his Fingers with the rest, and had he liv'd, no doubt, had got more; he died at Limrick in Ireland, of the Plague, being Deputy there, and was brought over into England, and by the Junto buried in great Pomp.

William Lenthal, the Speaker of this House of Com∣mons, had at one time given him by this House six thou∣sand pounds for his good services, besides, as Speaker, he got two thousand pounds per annum; and as Master of the Rolls, three thousand pounds per annum, more; besides Sales of Offices. And then he was for some time Cham∣berlain of Chester, Chancellor of the Dutchy of Lancaster, worth to him one thousand two hundred and thirty pounds per annum; and one of the Commissioners of the Great Seal, worth fifteen hundred pounds per annum.

Buestrode Whitlock, Commissioner of the Great Seal, worth to him fifteen hundred pounds per annum; and had two thousand pounds given him out of Mr. Minn's Estate.

Edmond Prideaux, once a Commissioner of the great Seal, worth to him fifteen hundred pounds a year. Then by order of the Junto afterwards, he was permitted to practise within the Bar, as the King's Council, worth to him five hundred pounds per annum; was also Post-Master General, worth to him a hundred pounds ever Wednes∣day night, and his Supper; the Earl of Warwick had the benefit of foreign Letters, which was worth to him five thousand pounds per annum.

Oliver S. Johns, Solicitor to the King, afterwards made Lord Chief Justice of the Common Pleas, and was one of their Embassadors to Holland, he had the pas∣sing of all Pardons upon Commissions, worth to him forty thousand pounds: he was called The Dark-Lanthorn-Man, a knowing Man in the Laws, and had the wit to keep out of danger, being against the putting the King to death, but a great Privado of Oliver's, to whom he preferred his man Thurlo, who was his Secretary when he went Ambassador, and became afterwards Oliver's Se∣cretaty

of State: he died at Utrecht in Holland, since the King came in, being favourably looked upon by his Ma∣jesty, and honored for his parts.

Roger Hill, a Barrester of the Temple, of no Practice, and little Estate, till this Parliament, had from the House the Bishop of Winchester's Mannor of Taunton-Dean, worth twelve hundred pounds a year after the lives were out.

Humphry Sulway had given him the King's Remembran∣cer's Place, worth two hundred pounds per annum.

Francis Rous was made Provost of Eaton, worth six hundred pounds per annum, and had a Colledge Lease worth six hundred pounds per annum, more.

John Lilse, a Barrester of the Temple, was made Ma∣ster of S. Crosses▪ a place for a Divine, worth eight hun∣dred pounds per annum, and afterwards one of the Com∣missioners of the Great Seal. He was one of the King's Judges, and stabb'd beyond Seas since his Majesties Re∣storation.

Sir William Allison, an Alderman of York, made Clerk of the Hamper, worth a thousand pounds per annum, and given to him Crab-Castle, worth six hundred pounds per annum, more, belonging to the Archbishop of York.

Thomas Hoyle, another Alderman of York, was made Treasurer-Remembrancer in the Exchequer, worth twelve hundred pounds per annum.

Tho. Pury, first a Weaver in Glocester, then a Country Solicitor, had given him three thousand pounds, and a place in the petty-Bag Office, worth four hundred pounds per annum.

Tho. Purey the younger, Son to the former, was made Receiver of the King's Rents in Glocester and Wilts, and ClerK of the Peace of Glocestershire, worth two hundred pounds per annum, and Captain of Foot and Horse; who at the beginning of the Parliament was a Servant to an Attorney of Staple-Inn.

William Ellis made Steward of Stepney, worth two hun∣dred pounds per annum.

Miles Corbet, at the b••ginning of the Parliament much

in debt, made one of the Registers of the Chancery, worth seven hundred pounds per annum; besides Chair∣man for Scandalous Ministers, worth a thousand pounds per annum, one of the King's Judges, and afterwards ad∣vanced to be a Judge in Ireland: executed at Tyburn since the King came in.

John Goodwin made a Register of Chancery, worth se∣ven hundred pounds per annum.

Sir Tho. Widdrington a Commissioner of the Great Seal, worth fifteen hundred pounds per annum.

Edward Bish made Garter-Herald, in the place of Sir Ed. Walker, worth six hundred pounds per annum.

Walter Strickland, Agent in Holland for the two Houses of Parliament, worth to him five thousand pounds.

Nicholas Love made one of the six Clerks of the Chan∣cery, worth two thousand pounds per annum.

Sir Gilbert Gerard was Pay-master to the Army, had three pence per pound allowance, worth sixty thousand pounds, and Chancellor of the Dutchy, worth five hun∣dred pounds per annum.

John Selden had given him five thousand pounds, John Bond, Son of Dennis Bond, made Master of Trinity-Hall in Cambridge. Sir Benjamin Rudiard given him five thousand pounds. Lucas Hodges made Customer of Bristol. Sir John Hipsly given him two thousand pounds in money, and made Keeper of three of the King's Parks, Maribone, Hampton and Bushy Parks. Sir Tho. Walsingham had the Honor of Elsham. To Benjamin Valentine given five Thousand pounds. To Sir Henry Heyman, 5000 l. Den∣zil Hollis, 5000 l. Nat. Bacon 3000 l. John Stevens out of the Lord Astley's Composition; 1000 l. Henry Smith made one of the six Clerks worth 2000 l. per annum. Robert Rey∣nolds given him 2000 l. besides Abbington-Hall and Lands worth 400 l. per annum. Sir John Clotworthy was made Treasurer for Ireland. John Ash given him out of Mr. Co∣ventry's Composition 4000 l. out of Sir Edward Moseley's 1000 l. out of Mr. Phillips's 1200 l. out of Sir John Sto∣wells 8000 l. and Chair-man at Goldssmiths-Hall. John Lenthal Son to the Speaker made one of the six Clarks

worth 2000 l. per annum. Francis Allin once a Gold-smith made Customer for London. Giles Green Chair-man for the Navy. Francis Peirpoint had the Lands of the Arch-Bishop of York, lying in Nottingham∣shire. William Peirpoint had 7000 l. given him and the Earl of Kingston's personal Estate worth 40000 l. John Palmer made Master of All-Souls in Oxford in Dr. Sheldon's place, a Divine. John Blackstone a Shop∣keeper in New-Castle, returned a Burgess and had 3000 l. given him out of one Gentlemans estate, and out of others as much as made up 12000 l. a Coleme∣ters place worth 200 l. per annum: and the Bishop of Durham's Castle at Durham, and Lands to great value. Tho. Ceyley long a Prisoner for Debt made Recorder of Bridgwater. To Mr. Scawen given 2000 l. Isaack Pen∣ington once Lord Major of London had 7000 l. given him, and purchased good store of Bishops Lands. Sa∣muel Vassell, 1000 l. given him. Sir Will. Brereton had the Arch-Bishops Lands and House at Croydon. Ed. Harvey a Silk man made a Collonel and had the Bi∣shop of London's House and Mannor of Fulham Rich. Sulway a Grocer made a Collonel. Joh. Ven a Collo∣nel Governor of Windsor had 4000 l given him. Phillip Skippon Serjeant Major General of the Army, Major General of London, and Governour of Bristol, had 1000 l. per annum Lands of Inheritance given him. Tho. Westrow had the Bishop of Worcester's Mannor at Hartlerow. Sir Arthur Haslerig had the Bishop of Dur∣ham's House, Park and Mannor of Aukeland, and 6500 l. in money given him. Lord Gray of Grooby had the Queens mannor House, Park and Lands at H••lden∣by. Sir Will. Constable restored to Lands, sold to Sir Marmaduke Langly worth 25000 l. Sir Will. Purefoy had given him 1500 l. Wal. Long 5000 l. given him.

Michael Oldsworth keeper of Windsor Park, and had a share out of Sir Will. Compton's Office, worth 3000 l. a year, divided betwixt him and his Lord. Tho. Scot

a Brewers Clark had Lambeth House. Mr. Ashurst 1000 l. given him; besides every Member of the House, which was when full 516 Persons, by their own order allow'd themselves 4 l. per. week a man, which amounts to 110000 l. per annum. They gave to Collonel H••∣mond Governour of the Isle of Wight for his Table 20 l. a week, a 1000 l. in money and 500 l. a year Land. Collonel Mitton 5000 l. in mony, Cornelius H••lland a poor Boy and waited on Sir Hen. Vain, when Comptrouler of the Princes House. Made Commissioner for the Re∣venue of the King Queen and Prince, Farmer of the Kings feeding Grounds in Buckinghamshire worth 2000 l. per annum at 200 l. per annum Rent. Possessor of Somerset-house: Keeper of Richmond House, Com∣missioner for the Garrisons of White-Hall and the Mews, an Office in the Mint which enabled him to give 5000 l. with his Daughter; this was one of the Kings Judges. Sir Hen. Vain Senior, had the Bishop of Dur∣ham's mannor and Park at Evenwood, and had given him 5000 l. and was Chair-man of the Kings Queens and Princes Revenue. Sir H••n. Vain Junior a subtil Cunning pated Man, a fifth Monarchy-man, he was made Treasurer of the Navy, worth 6000 l. a year. Sir Tho. Trenchard given him 1200 l. He marries his Daughter to a Malignant, gives security for the Pay∣ment of the portion being 1200 l. gets his Son in Law sequestred, discovers the Debt, and ha••h it given him for his Fidelity to the State: A new way to pay Por∣tions. Will. Bingham Governour of Pool had 1000 l. given him. To Collonel Joh. Sydenham 1000 l. Joh. Glyn Recorder of London, was Clark of the Polls worth 1000 l. per annum: and afterwards Lord Chief Ju∣stice. Joh. Bell an Apothecary beng intrusted with money was sued and said he could not answer without breach of Parliament. Sir Walter Earl Collonel of Horse, and Lieutenant of the Ordnance worth in times of Peace 1000 l. per annum, in War 5000 l. per annum.

Alderman Atkins Treasurer at War. Gregory Clemens a Mer∣chant and one of the Kings Judges. John Rowles had given him one thousand five hundred pound out of Sir John Wor∣senham's Estate. Edward Ash a Woollen-D••••per Treasurer for the providing of Cloaths for the Irish Souldiers. Sir John Danvers by a Parliamentary proceeding overthrew his Brothers Will, and got the Estate worth 30000 l. Hen. Herbert, given him 3000 l. and the Plunder of Ragland Castle. To Fen∣wick 500 l. Gilbert Milling••on 1000 l. and Chair-m••n to the Committee of plundred Ministers. To the two Darbys 5000 l. Robert Cecil Son to the Earl of Salisbury Collonel of Horse▪ Ser∣jeant Wild a Judge, a 1000 l. given him after the Hanging of Captain Burley, out of the Privy Purse, and it is said he had 1000 l. more after the aquital of Mr. Rolf who was accused for an intention of murthering the late King.

Of the City several Aldermen, Common-Councel, and others, who had great Benefits by this Parliament some of whom were of it. John Warner Lord Major was one of the Treasurers of War; and Treasurer of the receit of all Monies due upon the Or∣dinance of 3d. August 1643. Treasurer of the loan money: Pur∣chased the Arch-Bishop of York's best House, Castle and Mannot of Caywoood. Sir John Wooleston Alderman, Treasurer of War, Treasurer for Plate, Treasurer for loan Money, Say-Master of the Mint, Trustee of the sail of Bishops Lands: Purchased the Bishop of London's Land at High-Gate. Alderman Gibbs got se∣ven or eight thousand pounds, by melting the Plate and Bodkins at Guild-Hall, one of the Treasurers for 20000 l. to pay the Scots, a Trustee for Bishops Lands and Treasurer for Rents and Monies raised by them.

Alderman Fowks a Commissioner for the Customs refused to account upon Oath because of a tender Conscience, Treasurer for the payment of Wagoners, a Trustee for Bishops Lands and Controuler of their Accounts, had first 200 pound per annum, and after by their Additional Ordinance 300 per annum more standing Fee.

Alderman Pennington was Lieutenant of the Tower, being in∣trusted with 6000 pound, discovers it to the Parliament, beggs it and had it granted. Alderman Pack Commissioner for the Cu∣stoms Treasurer at War and bought the Bishop of Lincoln's House and Mannor at Bugden.

Alderman Andrews Treasurer at War, and Commissioner for the Customs. Alderman Avery Commissioner for the Customs; Treasurer for Sequestrations, and Trustee for the sale of Bi∣shops Lands. Alderman Culham Commissioner of the Ex∣cise worth 1200 pound per annum. Alderman Foot the same. Alderman Edmonds the same. Owen Roe Lieutenant Collonel and keeper of the Magazeen for stores. Alderman Doth∣wick Treasurer at War With many more too long to be named.

They allowed for their Military Officers, a Collonel of Foot

30 s. day; a Lieutenant Collonel 15 s. a Major 9 s. a Captain 15 s. A Collonel of Horse 30 s. a day for himself, and for six Horses 21 s. a day, a Lieutenant Collonel 15 s. a day for him∣self, and for six Horses 21 s. a Captain of Horse 24 s. a day, and for six Horses 21 s. a day. A Collonel Lieutenant Collonel and Major received their Captains pay be••••des. So that it was no wonder so many of the Parliament men got Commands in the Army. It was thought that there was near twenty Millions shared in Lands, Revenues, Incomes, and money amongst them. To Bradshaw their President of their High Court of Justice, the Kings House and Parks at Eltham was given, and to Bultrode Withlock, Greenwich. Barksted Lieutenant of the Tower, a poor Goldsmith bought at two or three years purchase as much Bi∣shops Lands as cost 10000 l. Mr. Boon who they say had been a Tapster a Member of the House, had given him 6000 l. To Harry Martin 3000 l. To Blackstone's Wife and Children 3000 l. out of the Earl of N••w-Castle and Lord With••rington's E∣states: and 500 l. to his brother. Upon the General, out of the Lands of the Duke of Buckingham's Estate and his Brothers, the Lord Francis Villers 4000 l. per annum. Clarendon Park bestow'd on the Earl of Pembroke. 4868 l. to the Lord Lisle. To Bradshaw more 2000 l. Land per annum, and 1000 l. in money. Cook for Acting the part of Attorny General against the late King had bestowed on him St. Crosses Hospital. The new Park in Surry bestowed on the Citty that they might not want Venison. Collonel Martin's account brought into the House 3d. July 1649. his Arrears amounting to 25000 l. order'd him, and 1000 l. per annum Land to be setled upon him and his Heirs. To Collonel Feilder 1300 l. To Scobel their Clark once a poor Clark in Chancery, and wrot for 2d. a sheet, a Pension of 500 l. a year, and an Employment in the sale of publi••k Lands worth 1000 l. a year: and 6 s. 8d Fee for every Order taken forth. More given to Brad∣shaw, Somerhill belonging to the Earl of St. Alben's. To the Lord Brohill 2000 l. I am afraid I have tyred my Reader, in going about to enumerate the many Gifts they order'd one to another, but tho I might name much more, this may suffice to shew what this Par∣liament did with the Kingdoms monies, to gratifie one another, and to share the prey among themselves, of the Kingdom, who groaned under Taxes, and of the Kings, Queens, Princes, and Bishops Lands, of Malignants Estates, Composition, Excise, &c. The like never was read in History, and therefore you may not wonder, that these men should be so unwilling to leave their Seats, and disband, but to sit to advantage themselves if they could. By what you have read, it plainly appears also, what sort of men they were, most of them, or very many of them, of the scum of the people, upstarts, of mechanical breeding, sordid, covetous Wret∣ches, Hypocrites, pretending Religion, and making Godliness their gain. I have done with them, and shall name but one or two more.

Dr. Dorislaus, who was Kill'd in Holland, had been formerly a poor School-Master in Holland, whence he came to Oxford, and read the History-Lecture there, in which he then decry'd Monarchy, was complained of, and forgiven by the King's Benignity. He then became Judge-Advocate in the King's Army, against the Scots, and had the like Employ afterwards against the King under Essex, and then under Fairfax, gain∣ing well in his employment, and by that of drawing up the bloody Charge against the King, for which some Cavaliers (some say Irish, others Scotch-men, in revenge of Hamilton's Death) kill'd him. His Wife and Children had allowances by the Parliament: but I cannot here forbear to mention Haselrig's bloody proposition upon his Death; who moved, That six Gentlemen of the best quality, Royalists, might be put to Death in Revenge of Dorislaus, to deter men from the like attempt hereafter. This was a Rumper's Justice, and may serve for his Character, a blind Zealot, furious, hot-headed, rash, unjust, and an hypocrite; a great Commonwealths-man, and an Ene∣my to Oliver.

Harison was a Fifth-Monarchy-man, a great Speaker, after his Canting way, acted with Cromwell, till he saw he set up himself instead of King Jesus, and his Saints, such as himself; then a stiff Opposer of Mo∣narchy, and would again have brought in Anarchy and Confusion; a man of no extraordinary Parts, but resolute and turbulent, ever heading a faction, and dyed impenitent, adhering to his wicked Principles.

Lambert was a good Soldier, had a great designing head, Ambitious, but outwitted by Cromwell, of great Power in the Army, and beloved by the factious Secta∣ries; some have thought he was then a Papist, (for he prov'd one since) and carried on the Jesuits designs.

Fleetwood was a person of a pretended great Devo∣tion, but of a secret and violent Ambition, and it was thought glad of Richard's fall, hoping to succeed, but fool'd by Lambert, as well as formerly by Cromwell;

and though General, had not the resolution of a man in his place, and therefore called the meek Knight. Jones was a flattering Sycophant. Desborow a sordid Clown. Pride an upstart Dray-man. Hewson a Vali∣ant Cobler. Whaly a Merchant. Sir Henry Mildmay an unworthy Turncoat and Rebel. The rest much of the same stamp. They had their Clergy too of the same Cloth, as the Post-Priest Vavasor Powel, the Fool Cradock. The Incendiary John Goodwin. Love, Jenkins, of both sorts Presbyterians and Independents, who served their turns, to trumpet forth Sedition to the People, and to extoll their Acts, for which they shared in the prey: But above all the rest, was the notori∣ous and blasphemous wretch, Pander and Buffoon, Hugh Peters; and because he was Chaplain in Ordinary to two great Potentates, Lucifer and Oliver Cromwell, I care not if I give you a little larger account of the man.

His Father was a Minister of the Church of Eng∣land, living near Foy in Cornwales, where his Son Hugh was born, and bred up by him at School, instructed well in the Principles of the Protestant Religion, sent thence to Cambridge, and admitted into Jesus Col∣lege, but was soon Expelled the University for his lacivious life: He gets to London, and there turns Player in Shakespear's Company, usually acting the Jester or Fool; but weary of that, by means of a Gentleman he became acquainted with, he got a Free-School, with the Stipend of 24 l. a year, at the Gentleman's dispose in Essex. After some time this Pedant, growing familiarly acquainted with a Gen∣tlewoman near, who liked his Drolling discourse, and used to entertain him, being one that had an Estate, he so ordered his business, that he one night surpri∣sed her in Bed, and getting in to her, had a Comrade that came and surprised them, before the strugling Gentlewoman could get forth of his Arms, who saluting them Man and Wife, caused the trepanned Woman, to avoid the shame, to consent to marry him. After this he takes Holy Orders, and was by

Doctor Mountaine, Bishop of London, Ordained Priest and Deacon, giving the Oaths of Allegiance and Su∣premacy to him, which he took. And now begin∣ning to Preach, he grows popular; and was much applauded among the females, whom he ever sought to please, so that he got to be Lecturer of St. Sepul∣chres in London, and continued there near Twenty years. Here he turns Independent, and his Wife be∣ing dead, he lead so beastly and scandalous life, that being detected, and prosecuted at Law for many Mis∣demeanors, he flyes over to Amsterdam, where con∣tinuing the like pranks, he goes at last to New-Eng∣land, where he Marries another Wife; but that not keeping him Chast, he began to grow odious amongst the Brethren; and the Wars then breaking forth in England, he returns, and is entertained as a rideing Parson in the Army, and at last becomes the Par∣liaments great Zany, Preaching for the Cause, and jugling the Women out of their Thimbles and Bod∣kins, by which means he became Oliver's great Pri∣vado, and with Ireton was admitted of the Cabal in contriving his late Majestie's Death; for which, and his other good Services, being a Col. under Oliver in his Irish Expedition, he had given him 300 l. per annum out of the Lord Worcester's Lands, in the Woulds in Worcester-shire, and, as they say, the King's Library at St. James's; and was Chaplain in Pay to fix Regiments. But at last had a more de∣served Reward, an Halter, being taken in Southwark, was at last Executed for his Treasons, and dyed like a Sot. I shall conclude with him, and now proceed to the second part of my draught of Arbi∣trary Government, under the Power and Tyranny of that no••orious Usurper Oliver.

I shall now proceed to the second Act of this Tragical Usurpation, and expose to your view the Tyrannick Usurpation of Oliver Cromwell; who now as General of the Armies of England, Scotland and

Ireland, had the full and sole Authority, Power and Government, of the Three Nations in his hands. Yet this would not serve his turn, he must have some splendid Title, and Royal Ensigns, to shew he reigned not by the Power of the Sword, which would render him odious to the People, though in effect it was the same thing: But there is much in State and Ceremony, especially where lawful right is not, to give a lustre; and the name of King, with the Ornament of a Crown, is the thing ambi∣tioned, or some thing like it is to be had, if the other could not be obtained. But this is not yet to be reach'd, he must proceed methodically, and like the Tyrant Richard the Third, intreated much to accept of what he greatly desired. The first thing Oliver does, after he had thrust the Rump-Parliament out of doors, was to put forth a De∣claration of the Reasons for Dissolving the Long Parliament, who had designed to perpetuate them∣selves, desiring all good people to seek God for him, that he might not doe any thing to disho∣nour his Name, and that they should peaceably follow their Vocations, as when the Parliament was sitting, and that all Judges, Sheriffs, Justices of the Peace, Mayors, Bayliffs, and other Civil Officers and Publick Ministers whatsoever, should proceed in their Offices and Places, and that the Writs should run in the same stile as before, of the Keepers of the Liberty of England. And then out of his Chief Officers of the Army, and his Confi∣dents, he Creates a Council of State, who were to manage all affairs, till a Parliament could be called. Thus the Laws and Liberties of the People, and the whole Civil State and Government of England, depended upon the Sword, and the Arbitrary Will and Pleasure of a General, and some few of his Military Officers. These men, to ingratiate them∣selves with the people, lessen the Monthly Tax from 120000 l. to 90000 l. a Month; and to keep

fair with the Presbyterian, who yet kept up their form of Church-worship, and the most of one publick perswasion, they prohibited all distur∣bances in the Church, which was then frequent, and the Phanaticks Licentiousness in the Army, which swarmed with Anabaptists, Ranters, Quakers, Seekers, and other strange new Lights, and who were set a madding after the possession of the remaining Revenue of Church-Lands, Tythes, Glebe, Impropriations, often addressing to that purpose, as no remains of Dagon might be left. Oliver at this time also was Courted by the French Ambassador Burdoe, in the behalf of his Master, lest he should favour his Rebels, and which he gave him assurance he would not doe, and though solicited on the other side, he would not favour Enemies to Monarchy, ••••ready looking upon himself to be a Monarch.

The Dutch thought now to take the advantage of these Divisions in England, and very early got their Fleet to Sea, but no great Commotion fol∣lowing thereupon at home, they had leasure to look after their Sea-affairs, and getting forth the Fleet under Blake, Monk and Dean, on the second of June 1653, they meet the Dutch on the Coasts of Flanders, Commanded by Van Tromp in chief, and under him the two Eversons, de Wit, and Ruytier, all stout, expert and able Sea-men. Pen was Vice-Admiral of our Fleet, and Lawson Rear-Admiral. The Dutch had One hundred and four Men of War, Twelve Galliots, and Nine Fire-Ships: the English had One hundred Ships of all sorts: Monk and Dean were in one Ship; the Fight begun about Eleven of the Clock at Noon, and the first Broad-side from the Enemy, carried away General Dean, being shot in two by a Can∣non Bullet, close by Monk's side, who flinging a Cloak over his body, bid the Soldiers to mind their business, and unconcerned apply'd himself

to the Battel, continued with much fury on both sides, as long as they had light. The next morn∣ing Monk finding himself near the Dutch, they again furiously engaged each other; and Monk pressed so hard upon them, that he sunk six of their best Ships, and two others were blown up, and eleven Ships taken, and One thousand three hundred and fifty Prisoners; and had not the Dutch got upon the Flats near Calais and Dun∣kirk, where our great Ships could not come at them, most of their Fleet had been ruined or taken. The English had not one Ship lost or disabled; and excepting General Dean, but one Captain lost, and about One hundred and fifty Men, and few hurt. General Blake came not in till towards the end of the Fight, with Eighteen fresh Ships. This was the sixth Engagement with the Dutch in this W••••.

The English Fleet ••••e before the Texel and the Ʋly, and now let the Dutch see they were Con∣querors; which so humbled them, that they sent away a Vessel with a white Flag for England, with a Messenger to prepare way for two Am∣bassadors to Treat of Peace; however that they might make it on easier terms, they prepare with all speed they can to recruit their Fleet, and on the Twenty-ninth of July following, in the morn∣ing, the English discry them again with One hun∣dred and twenty five Sail of Ships, divided into four Squadrons, under Tromp, Everson, Ruyte••▪ and Wit Wittens. The English Fleet consisted of On•• hun∣dred and six Ships, under the Command of Monk in chief, for Blake was sick, Pen Vice-Admiral, and Lawson Rear-Admiral: the Battel began by six in the morning, and continued till night parted them, and the next morning again both fell to it, with that bloody fury, that they made the most cruel Fight that ever was: Orders being given neither to give nor take quarter. Everson's

Ship was sunk, and he taken, and the famous Van Tromp shot, with a Musket-bullet and slain on the poop of his Ship, whereby his men were so daunted, that hoisting out all the Sail they could, they made away to the Texel. The English bought this Victory dear, having lost Four hun∣dred Men and Eight Captains, and Seven hundred wounded, with Five Commanders, yet lost but one Ship. On the Dutch side was lost, besides their Admiral Tromp, Thirty-three Ships or more, out of which the English saved swiming in the Sea, Twelve hundred Men and Five Captains, Monk returning victorious with their Prisoners to Solebay; where he stayed not long, e're he re∣turned to ply upon the Dutch Coasts, and to di∣sturb their Trade, and to let them see the Eng∣lish were their Conquerors. This was the seventh and last Engagement in this ••ar. For now the Dutch having enough of i•• made a Peace with Cromwell, which he mig•••• have had almost upon any terms, had he not been so greedy of setting himself up in the Throne, beginning also to grow jealous of the great Actions of General Monk, whom he had a desire to send further from him.

But before this last Fight, the Parliament called by Cromwell, under his Hand and Seal, directed to each man, such as he picked out, godly men as he calle•• them, fit for his turn, about One hundred and forty-two of them in all, assembled at White-Hall on the Fourth of July, where they chose one Mr. Rous, a Cornish man, Speaker, one that had been by the la••e Parliament made Pro∣vost of Eaton. Cromwell in a set Speech declares to them the occasion of their Meeting, with his old way of Canting full of Scripture. To these men a company of obscure fellows, most of them 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Phanaticks, the Council of State surrender 〈◊〉〈◊〉 their Power, that they might afterwards give

it to Cromwell. These Adjourn themselves to Westminster, where they sit and call themselves the supreme Authority of the Nation, and begin to form Committies for the dispatch of Business. But this Parliament called Barebones Parliament from a Leatherseller a Member thereof, and con∣sisting as I have said of such obscure Persons, that most of them were hardly known in the Counties where they were born, began to make such ridiculous Acts, and so displeasing to the people, that some thought Cromwell had called to∣gether this little Parliament to bring Parliaments into contempt, the better to devolve the Ruling Power on himself as a Monarch. One of their Acts was, that none should be married without a Justice of Peace, and the Banes asked in the Market-place three several Market-daies. Thus the Priesthood was invaded, and placed in the Civil Magistrate. Then, they took off the Penal Law of the Engagement to acknowledge the late Rump, whereby it was ordered, that no man should be admitted to sue in Law, in any Court, that had not taken it. They voted against Tythes and the Universities as Antichristian. They also were going in hand with cancelling the Law, and all Law Books, and so make a new Code more besitting their own turns, and for the establishing of the Saints, as they called them∣selves. They were also upon making an Act, that one Parliament should upon their dissolving, have power to call another, and so to make Parlia∣ments perpetual. This was not to be endured by the Oliverian Party, who expected now to solace themselves under the shadow of his great∣ness. And on the twelfth of December this Party in the House with the Speaker, made a Motion for their dissolution, declaring that their sitting any longer would not be for the good of the Na∣tion. Many of the Committee Blades hardly warm in

their seats were startled at it, these began to stand up, stifly pleading for the Cause of God, as they called it, and shewing they could not leave the Commonwealth and the People of God committed to their charge so soon, which would leave them to utter ruine: and Harison and Squib a great Sequestrator, were very zealous in defence of their own Authority. But Oliver's Party, be∣ing the greater, arose, and with their Speaker Rous left the House, and the Fifth-monarchy Saints sitting in it, who having sought God, re∣solved to continue sitting. Rous in the mean time with the Mace before him, and his Followers, go to Whitehall, and there resign to Oliver the Instrument of Power he had given them, that made them a Parliament, with notice how they had left their fellows sitting. Oliver returns them his thanks, and kindly receives their Present, and presently dispatches a Confident of his, Colonel White, with a Guard of Red-coates, to turn the fag end or Rump of this little Parliament out of the House; who entring the House commanded them in the name of the General to depart, de∣claring them to be dissolved; but they told him they were upon earnest business, and therefore desired that he would not disturb them; for they were seeking God: to which he replied pish, is that all? 'tis to no purpose, for God has not been within these walls this twelve years, and so fairly compelled them to go out of the House, and to seek God somewhere else.

About four days after, the Officers of the Ar∣my, had prepared an Instrument of Government, on which foundation they erected their new Do∣minion in a single Person, entreating their Gene∣ral to accept of the Government, under the Ti∣tle of Protector of the Commonwealth of England, Scotland and Ireland; and thus a Rotation is, made from a Republick, to a single Person; and

Arbitrary Tyranny, not the Monarchy is restored, and instead of the many Tyrants, one as bound∣less is constituted by a Military Power. Good man, with his usual dissimulation and Hypocrisie he refused it, with much seeming modesty, what he so long had sought and ambitioned, but being pressed, and by being made sensible of the great ne∣cessity of it, for the upholding the Nation, he at last accepts it, and is installed with great pomp in Westminster Hall, attended by the Lords Com∣missioners of the great Seal, all the Judges in their Robes, the Serjeants and learned Counsellors at Law, the Lord Mayor, Aldermen, and Recorder of London, in their Scarlets, and all the chief Of∣ficers of the Army: Being seated in a great Chair of State, and the Instrument read unto him, this Oath was administred. I promise in the presence of God, not to violate or infringe the Matters and things contained in the Instrument, but to observe and cause the same to be observed; and in all things, to the best of my understanding, govern the Nation according to the Laws, Statutes, and Customes thereof; and to seek their peace, and to cause Justice and Law to be equally administred. But how well he kept this Oath you may perceive by the sequell of his Reign. Having taken this Oath, putting on his Hat, the Commissioners surrender into his Hand the great Seal, and the Lord Mayor the City Sword, and Cap of maintenance, which he respectively returned to them again, and then returned in the same pomp to Whitehall. The chief Heads of this Instrument (as they called it) of Government were. First, That a Parliament should be called every three years. Second, That the first should assemble the third of September, 1654. Third, That no Parliament should be dissolved till they had sate five Months. Fourth, That such Bills as should be offered to the Protector by the Parliament, if he assented not in twenty dayes should be Laws without him.

Fifth, That his Council should not exceed the number of twenty one, nor be less than thirtee••. Sixth, That immediately after the death of the present and succeeding Protectors, the Council shall choose another Protector, before they rise. Seventh, That no Protector after the present should be Ge∣neral of the Army. Eighth, That the Protector should have power to make War or Peace. This they denyed to the King. Ninth, That in the Intervals of Parliaments, the Protector and his Council may make some Laws, that should be binding to the Subject. Here is a prerogative granted beyond any of the Kings of England. Tenth, That in the Parliament should be four hundred English, thirty Scotch, and thirty Irish. The summons for the Parliament to pass under the Great Seal to the Sheriffs of the Counties, and Elections to be made more equally than for∣merly. If the Protector deny to issue out Writs at the time appointed, then the Commissioners of the Great Seal to doe it without him, under the pain of High Treason. No Royalist, Irish Re∣bel, or Papist to be elected, and if they were, they were to forfeit two years Revenue, and three parts of their Goods. None to be elected but such as feared God: and none were capable to elect that were not worth two hundred pound. A Revenue to be raised for the constant mainte∣nance of ten thousand Horse and fifteen thousand Foot, and the Navy not to be lessened. All for∣feited Lands unsold to belong to the Protector. All Places of Trust to be in his disposal. All Laws in favour of Episcopacy and Popery to be abrogated, and besides them, a tolleration to be granted. And presently upon this he puts forth a Proclamation, declaring the dissolution of the Parliament, and his being made Lord Protector of the three Nations, commanding and strictly char∣ging all Persons of what quality or condition soe∣ver,

and to take notice thereof, and to conform and submit themselves to the Government so esta∣blished: And that all Sheriffs, Mayors, Bayliffs, &c. are required to publish this Proclamation, to the end none may have cause to pretend ignorance in this behalf. Now he begins to shew his Au∣thority. The Presbyterians were rather tollerated than countenanced; yet some few of them that would comply and fawne on his Greatness, he shew'd some favour to, though he boasted he had brought under the Pride and Arrogancy of that Sect: The Independents and Anabaptists were more in his favour, being then of most command in the Army, and most ready to support his Usur∣pation: yet the Fifth-monarchy Men, who had helpt to raise him, he could not endure, and therefore he imprisoned Feak and Rogers in Windsor Castle, where he kept them for a long while: Then he set Feak's Party, and Kiffins the Anabaptist, one in his favour, together by the ears, and raised equal divisions between the Pres∣byterians and the independents, as a ballance, the better to secure himself. These Tryumphs of Oli∣ver so disgusted Harison that he turn'd Preacher, or Railer, openly against him and his Govern∣ment: All the old Commonwealths Men were dis∣countenanced, as Vain, Hazelrig, Bradshaw, Scot and others, so that he was at this time to strengthen himself with the Sectaries whom he courted. His first Council were Colonel Mounta∣gue, Lambert, Viscount Lisle, Desborow made one of the Generals at Sea, Sir Gilbert Pickering, Sir Anthony Ashly Cooper, Sir Ch. Woolsley, Major General Skippon, Strickland, Sydenham, Philip Jones, Rous, the late Speaker, Colonel Lawrence, and Rich. Major▪

The first thing this Protector did, was that he clapt up a sudden and dishonourable Peace with the Dutch, who were brought so low, that it was

thought, they could never have been able to have set out another Fleet, though they had made Op∣dam Admiral in the place of Van Trump: and therefore they send over Newport, Youngstal, Be∣vering, and Vander Perre, Ambassadors to his Highness, with whom he made peace, they own∣ing the Right that the English had of the So∣vereignty of these Seas, and acknowledging it by striking their Flag, the restitution of the English Ships taken by the Danes, and some compensation for the charges of the War. Thus he prospers, Spain, Portugal and France courting him by their Ambassadors. His Son Henry he sends into Ire∣land with Fleetwood Lieutenant, and some time after made him Lieutenant of that Kingdom, where he lived in great splendor. Lieutenant General Monk he sends into Scotland, to pre∣serve that Nation in obedience. Whitlock he sends Ambassador to Sweden, who concluded a League with that Queen. Then Maynard, Twisden, Nudi∣gate and Windham, were made Serjeants. A private Article also in the Dutch Peace was, that the Prince of Orange should never be restored to his Dignities, Offices and Charge, his Ancestors had enjoy'd.

On the eighth of February being Ashwednesday, of all dayes of the year, the Protector is feasted in great state by the Lord Mayor, at Grocers Hall, the Streets being railed from Temple Bar thither, the Liveries, and Gownmen, and several Compa∣nies, standing waiting on him. Alderman Viner being Lord Mayor, who bore the Sword bare-headed before him. At his return about Saint Clements Church, a Brickbat was flung at him, which light upon his Coach, but did no hurt, except affrighting him. Search was made after him who did it, but he could not be found.

And now, as usually Tyrants doe, he began to entertain fears and jealousies of all persons, espe∣cially the Royal Party, and therefore to affright

them, and secure himself, he will coment his Throne with their blood: And by cunning tre∣panning Agents, he had formed a Plot against his Life, and several persons were laid hold on, and accused for a design of murthering him. This was one of the Machivilean Policies of him, and his Secretary Thurlo, by whose means he drew in several Gentlemen, as if they were to have assassinated him, though no such thing was really intended, they disavowing it at their deaths. One of which was Colonel John Gerard, brother to Sir Gilbert Gerard who was also imprisoned in the Tower about it, and his Brother Mr. Charles Ge∣rard a very young man, one Mr. Vowel a School-master, and one Fox. These men being taken and examined about it, much adoe was made, and some were suborned to swear against them, but Cromwell contrary to the Oath in his Instrument, durst not try them by a legal way, but set up the Arbitrary Court of Justice, which the Junto had been condemned for; of this Court Lisle was made president, a man fit for the work, for die some of them must, out of a po∣litick Terror. Mr. Charles Gerard upon promise of life confesses the fact, out of fear, and accuses his Brother, and Fox doth the like, who are both par∣doned, but Colon. John Gerard and Mr. Vowel were condemned; and a blind man brought in evidence against Mr. Vowel, being only words casually in dis∣course, concerning the coming in of the King, which they had so aggravated and perverted, that at the try∣al, upon their recital, the blind man utterly denied them to be his, which gave a great trouble to the Court, till at last (though the innocency of the Pri∣soner appeared, and the juggle amongst them) Lisle told them, that the blind man had been tamper'd with, and that though he now denied his evidence, yet his former examinations should stand, and so accor∣ding to this most excellent Arbitrary Law, against the mind of the Witness, the Court proceeded to

sentence, and Vowel was condemned and hanged at Chairing-Cross, much pitied and lamented; and a Ladder not being able to be procured, they were for∣ced to mount him on a Joynt-stool, and hang him after that fashion, where he dyed with much innocen∣cy and resolution on the 10th of July 1654. And on the same day Col. Gerard was beheaded on Tower-hill, presently after Emanuel Say the Portugal Ambassadors brother, put to death for killing one in a fray in the New-Exchange, this Col. Gerard being the chief man that opposed the said Ambassadors brother at that time, with the hazard of his life, yet both came to suffer in one day, upon one Scaffold, for different Crimes; For this Colonel suffered onely for the Crime of Loyalty, and was sacrifised to Oliver's Fear and Policy. He dyed with great bravery, courage and undauntedness.

This was Cromwell's first bloudy remarke, and like an Usurper; who must maintain his illegal greatness, by illegal Arts. But dominion founded in innocent bloud, cannot long stand, before the Avenger for bloud visits it in his wrathfull Justice. About this time he takes care, there shall be a faithfull ministry, to his interest he means, therefore he sets up a Com∣pany of Tryers, the chief of which were Nye, Good∣win, Hugh Peters, Manton, and others named as Com∣missioners. These make a Reformation among the Ministry, for humane Learning was rather a Crime than an help to any, for the question was, had they Grace in their hearts? Many good Livings were dis∣burthened of their Pastours, and others of more Grace, and less Knowledge put in. I heard of one who had been Hebrew and Chaldee Reader, in Ox∣ford, and knowing in all the Eastern Tongues, put out of a good living for insufficiency: He had it seems not Grace equal to his Learning, or his Living had more Grace than he. But such as agreed with Nol's Principles, and were ready to maintain his Government, to be jure divino, were put into the

best Livings throughout England, and the favourers of the Church of England, though they had confor∣med, every where thrust forth.

In Ireland all was subdued, and he sent Cook over as a Judg, who with a kind of Itinerant Court of Justice, hung up many of the Irish Rebels at Dublin, Waterford, Kilkenny and in Ʋlster, and those that escaped of the Irish were confined to the Pro∣vince of Conaught, and the rest banished. But in Scotland at the mediation of Argile, whom he had tyed to his Interest; and by whose power he held a great part of the Highlands in subjection, the Presby∣terians were allowed their Religion, and had their own Kirk Government, and the power of Excommu∣nication, but the rigor of it was taken off, for such as were excommunicated, were not onely forbid the Communion, but they had all their Estates confisca∣ted to the Church, which was not allowed them, nor the meeting of their general Assembly.

Cromwell was jealous of Lambert, and of the Love he had among the Sectaries of the Army; so that as yet he was forced to caress him, and to delude him with vain hopes of succeeding him in the Protectorate, and therefore made him Commander in chief, of the Army, next himself, with the allowance of 10 l. a day. Abroad he confederates with most of the Potentates, and up∣on his making a Peace with France, the King is obli∣ged to leave that Court, where he had been neer two years, and had done many good offices for that King, with his neighbour Princes; but Interest sways more than Gratitude. He retires into Germany, where all his designs, and private Councils in his Cabinet, were betray'd to Cromwell by one Manning, who was Clerk to his Secretary, bribed by the Usurper, who had a knack that way, of expending vast summs for intelli∣gence, and by this means, many of the Royalists de∣signs in England came to be discovered, and many brought into trouble about it, but at last the Tray∣tour was detected, and shot to death for his perfidi∣ousness.

About this time he sends over 6 Counsel∣lors for Ireland, Steel who was m••de Lord Chancel∣lour there, and Pepys Lord Chief justice there, Miles Corbet, Robert Hamond, Matthew Tomlinson and Ro∣bert Goodwin. About June this year, Cromwell seeing he was able to rule 3 Kingdoms, believed he was as well able to govern 6 Horses, sent him by the Count of Oldenburg, and in a frollick being in Hide Park, leaving his Engine Thurlo alone in the Coach, he gets into the Box, and would needs play the Coach-man, but the Horses feeling the lash, and not so well yoaked as his English Slaves, ran away with Coach, Coach-man, and Thurlo, and at last dismounted him from his Box (an ill omen of his fall) and had like to have broke his Neck.

And now according to the Instrument, on the 3d of September, the Parliament was to meet, and great care was taken by Oliver, that none of the Cavaliers should be chosen: Writs were issued out in his name, and Elections made as heretofore, onely the Burrows sent but one Burgess, and there were 6 or 7 Knights for some Shires, all of them under sure qualifications: Scotland and Ireland also, according to the Instrument, sent their number, most being English Commanders. The day came, they meet, and in Westminster Abby Marshall gave them a Sermon: The next day, the Protector went to them in great state in his Coach, attended by Cleypool, Master of his Horse, Strickland, Captain of his Guards, bareheaded on both sides, and at his entrance, Lambert carried the Sword, and Whitlock the Purse, and in the painted Chamber he made to them a Speech after his old method, with God in his mouth. He told them this was an healing day, for before there was neither Nobleman, Gentleman, nor Yeoman known by any distinction, nor was there any bore rule or authority, but the Magistracy, and Christ's Ordinances were had in contempt; that the fifth Monar∣chy was highly cry'd up, by such persons as had a mind to assume the government to themselves. Then in an

extolling way, he shewed what great things he had done during his Government, and then he told them they were upon the edge of Canaan, and that he spoke not as their Lord, but Fellow-servant; And so dismist them to choose their Speaker, which they did, without pre∣senting to him his name. Their Speaker was Lenthal, the Speaker to the old Long Parliament. This Par∣liament began to be very brisk upon the Government, and fell upon the Instrument, on which they made so bad musick, questioning Oliver's power, that he could not indure it, and immediately sent them a Recogni∣tion, for every Member to take, before they sat, whereby they were not to meddle with the Government, as it was settled in a single person, and the Parliament, nor with the militia, nor with perpetuating Parliaments, nor taking away Liberty of Conscience. He told them also, that a Free Par∣liament was but a term of Reciprocation, for that power which made him Protector, made them a Par∣liament, and therefore he was sorry, they went about to destroy the Settlement, and was forced to send them a Recognition, for every Member to sign and seal, to prevent it. This startled most of them, espe∣cially the Commonwealths men, who all flew off, and of 400 scarce 200 appeared, though at last several came dropping in, and made up 300, but they fell again upon the same disputes, notwithstanding the Recognition. A little before their sitting down, Oliver publishes several Ordinances of his own, which bear∣ing date before, past as Authentick Laws and Ordi∣nances by the Instrument; one was for the payment of monies into the Treasury, raised for the propagation of the Gospel in Wales. Another for the turning forth of Scandalous Ministers, that is, such as had used the Common Prayer, and had good Livings: Another for making Souldiers free of Corporations; Another for surveying the King's Lands, and for doubling upon Deans and Chapters. This was to let the Parliament see, that he took the Act•• made by himself, by power

of his Instrument, as good and authentick as theirs. Mark here, whether the most arbitrary of our Kings, ever assumed such a power, and yet these are days of freedom and liberty.

Lambert was very busie in this Convention, endea∣vouring tooth and nail to have the Instrument confir∣med by them, for that the Protectorship being made elective, he himself stood most fair to be the next Candidate, but finding they would not drive, but be∣gan to be as unruly, as Cromwell's German Horses, that flung him out of the Coach-box, he threatned them, that he would call 4 or 5 Parliaments one after ano∣ther, but it should be done, following Oliver's mena∣cing steps to the Junto. There were some Common∣wealth Officers in the Army, that had designed to have seised on Lambert, but Col. Pride betray'd them, who was privy to the business; and Cromwell seeing he could doe no good with his Parliament, assoon as ever the 5 months were out, dissolves them; and then he takes from these, who had conspired against Lam∣bert, their Commissions, and seises on several others Commonwealths men, and Royalists, among whom was Major Wildman, who was drawing up a Declara∣tion, to shew the lawfulness of taking up Arms against Cromwell: and of the Royalists there were Sir John Pac∣kington, Sir John Littleton and others, which he im∣prisoned for a new Conspiracy (as he said) against his Life: and Sir Tho. Harris was taken having a de∣sign of surprising of Shrewsbury. Penruddo••k and Grove at Salisbury, and in several other places, as at Hexam Moor, in Northumberland, and in Yorkshire, where Sir Henry Slingsby was taken, all their designs being beforehand betray'd to Oliver: and many Prisons in the West were filled with the common sort of people, from which, and from the Tower, and other places, many of them were sent away to Foreign Plantations, and sold for Slaves, and many forceably carried away in Pen's Expedition, to be knockt on the head by the Moors. Thus he endeavoured to secure himself, by a

bloudy and arbitrary way of proceeding, as all Ty∣rants are forced to doe.

Having thus supprest this Insurrection, which he knew of beforehand, and was prepared for, several of the chief that were taken, were brought to their trials, the chief of which were Mr. Penruddock, who was a Captain, and Mr. Grove another Captain, 16 more were executed, of which 9 at Excester.

Both Penruddock and Grove when taken, surrendred themselves to Ʋnton Crook, upon promise of having their lives, but what signifies such Promises with such Persons, who never kept their Faith; these were brave and active Loyalists, and therefore must not escape out of the bloudy Paws of the Usurper. They were both condemned at the Assizes at Excester, being indicted for Treason against the Usurper, and endeavouring the bringing in (of their lawfull King) Charles Ste∣uart, and on the 16th of May 1655 were both be∣headed in that City. Mr. Penruddock at his execution spoke very boldly, and with much zeal against the iniquities of the Times; and told them among other things, that Treason was in that Age become an Indi∣viduum Vagum, like the wind in the Gospel, that blow∣eth where it listeth. And Treason was then what the Ruler pleased to make so, and lighted upon whom he would have it: And by this (said he) you may see, what a condition you are in, when you have no Law to protect you, no Rule to walk by; with many other bold Truths, which made them suppress his Speech and forbid it to be published, that they might con∣ceil as much as they could, their illegal and arbitra∣ry Proceedings: For indeed one of the Jury, that found him guilty, being demanded afterwards, for what reason they brought in their Verdict guilty, a∣gainst Mr. Penruddock and Grove, Answered; That they had resolved to hang them, before they saw them. A pious Resolution. His Judges were Lisle, Glin, Roles and Nichols who denyed to give him their advice in point of Law, because they said they were Parties;

and if so (as indeed they were) it was contrary to all Law, for a Judge being a party to sit upon the Bench. But these were lawless Times. Some others suffered at Chard in Somersetshire, one beheaded at Salisbury, and 3 hang'd, and thus this Insurrection was quash'd. But not long after, he crowded the Tower with many Persons of note Prisoners, upon suspicion of having an hand in this Plot, or Treason as he called it, and among the rest were the Earl of Lindsey, The Lords Willowby of Parham, Newport, May∣nard, Faulkland, Lucas, Petres, Sir Frederick Corn∣wallis, Sir Jeoffery Palmer, Sir Rich. Wingfield and others, too long to relate; but these were never brought to any tryal, but it was thought convenient to secure them, though nothing appeared against them.

Cromwell now the Dominus fac totum, beholding himself mounted in the Throne of the Monarchy, makes Leagues, and War and Peace abroad as he plea∣sed, and as we have said, having made an impolitick Peace with France, losing thereby the ballance he had in his hand, and giving too much to that Growing Monarch, he designs a very unjust War, without any provocation, against Spain, having a thirst after that King's Gold and Treasure at St. Domingo, in the West Indies: But this design was kept very secret, and a great Fleet was equipped, to the wonder of his neigh∣bours; yet that he might not lose his wonted exercise of Hypocrisie, he gives out, that it is for the propaga∣tion of the Protestant Religion; though besides the insatiate hunger of Gold, he might have some poli∣tick Reasons to move him to this dishonest breach, which might be, by this means, a getting rid of a great many of the troublesome Sectaries in the Army, whom he found still pecking against his power, and endeavouring to alienate the minds of the Soldiers from him: But now he shewed his Art in draining them for this expedition, whereby he might sit the quieter at home. Venables was made Commander in

chief of the Land-forces, and Pen of the Sea, being made General, and on the 27th of December set sa••l from Portsmouth, with about 10000 Men, on the 28th of January following they put into Barbadoes, and on the 30th of March sailed for Hispaniola, where they Landed their Men without opposition; but whether it were the imprudence and ill management of the Generals, or that God resolved to blast so dishonest an attempt, I shall not determine; but Englishmen ne∣ver received such a foil, and by so few enemies, since they wore the name; for having lost near a thousand Men, by an handful of Spaniards, Negro's and Molatto's, they were fain to retreat, and losing all hopes of getting the Spanish Gold, most shamefully return to their Ships; and, that they might be said to doe something, they set upon Jamaica, and take it, and which we have kept ever since. Venables after his return was frowned upon by Oliver, and for a while sent to the Tower, but afterwards was released. The Hopes of this Gold had made Oliver King it very much, being served with much State and Ceremony. He had his Halberdeers in garded grey Coats, over whom Strickland was Cap∣tain: His Lord Chamberlain, who was Sir Gilbert Pick∣ering. Two Masters of Requests, Mr. Bacon and Mr. Sadler, and the Master of his Horse, his Son Cley∣pool, and all other Officers of Honour both to his own Person and his Wives, who very finically acted the Princess, White-Hall and Hampton-Court he had saved from sale, for his own convenience.

The baffle at St. Domingo, and the loss of his hopes of his Gold, made him now project some other ways to fill his Cofers, to maintain his Greatness: his merry devil left him, and he began daily to grow more au∣stere and tyrannical, being full of fears and jealousies, as he had reason; for he had not only the Royal party against him, whom he kept under with much cruelty, but the Commonwealths-men of his own party, and the Fifth-Monarchy-men, countenanced by Harison, were highly displeased with him, and began to Con∣spire

against him. He therefore lays Harison and Rich aside, and not long after he Committed them, with Carew and Courtney into several remote Castles: Over∣ton was seized in Scotland, with Bramstone, Holmes and other Officers who were cashiered, fined, and good se∣curity taken for their good behaviour: Overton was sent to the Tower, and his Regiment given to Col. Morgan. Okey's Regiment also was taken from him, and given to another. Joyce had the confidence to upbraid his Highness to his face, but escaped unpu∣nished, Cromwell saying he was a Mad-man. About this time he began to interest himself for the Prote∣stants abroad, and to be their Protector. The Protestant Subjects of the Duke of Savoy, in the Vallies of Pied∣mont, having been cruelly treated by that Prince for their Religion, Cromwell sends to make application in their behalf; but his Messengers being slighted, he caused Contributions for their relief to be made throughout England, and Viner and Pack were made Treasurers for the Money; by which means a consi∣derable summ was Collected, but what share they had of it, is not known. The Spanish War now Com∣menced apace, Cromwell resolving not to hearken to Peace, nor to the restitution of three Ships he had taken of the King of Spain's before he had declared War, pretending them Hambourgers, and Confiscating them, being laden with pieces of Eight, to the sum of Four hundred thousand pounds Sterling, which was minted in the Tower, though the Spanish Ambassa∣dor Al••nso de Cardenas protested against it, and did all he could to hinder the injustice, which was re∣turned on our Merchants, by that Kings seizing on their effects in Spain, and by the loss of 1500 English Ships, great and small, taken from us in this War, as appeared afterwards, according to the report made in Richard's Parliament.

This sum of money being spent, he had with his Privadoes thought of another way of recruit, which like their Usurpation, was the most Barbarous and

Arbitrary as ever was heard of. See now what was become of the Liberties of English men, when he fol∣lowing the Example of the Grand Seignior, set over the Land a company of Bashaws, with the same power, under a new title of Major-Generals. He had Canton'd England and Wales into 11 Provinces, joyning the Counties together for the convenience of this Turkish sway, over every one of which he appointed a Go∣vernour or Bashaw, called by him a Major-General. The Names of these Tyrannick Princes were, Kelsy, Goff, Desborow, Fleetwood, Skippon, Whaly, Butler, Berry, Worsley, Lambert and Barkstead, who was also Lieu∣tenant of the Tower. These in their respective Prin∣cipalities, lived like petty Princes or Bashawes, domi∣neering and lording it over both Nobility and Gentry, and according to the Command and Order of their Grand Seignior Oliver Cromwell, (which was then e∣steemed Law) all the poor Cavaliers, that is, all such who had served in the Wars, for King Charles the first, and also all those that had declared themselves for his Son, King Charles the second (our now Sove∣reign) were by these Bashaws to be decimated, that is, the tenth part of their Estates were to be taken from them, besides banish'd from London, and within 20 miles of the same, disarm'd and prohibited to be Elected into any Parliament. And as for the Clergy, they were turned out of their Livings, and kept from all other way of livelihood, unless they would work with their hands, so that many were ready to starve, for they were prohibited any Cure, or to be Chaplains to any, or to keep School. The power of these Decimators was great and boundless, Oppressing, Rob∣bing, Spoyling and Decimating whom they pleased, according to their own Arbitrary Will; for none durst say, Why do you thus? They kept a Roll of all persons within their Precincts; and if they sus∣pected any to favour the King, he was called to ac∣count by these Military-Lords, and Caution taken by them, to keep them from acting against the State,

binding them to reveal all Plots that should come to their knowledge, and made them engage the like for their servants. They also hindred them from their disports, and prohibited all Horse-races, Cock-fight∣ing, Bull-baiting, or any thing that should cause a Concourse of People: and those who refused, were presently imprisoned and decimated; so that the free people of England were become as absolute Slaves as those living under the Turkish Government, where none can call any thing his own. By this means the Usurper easily informed himself of the value of all the Estates in England, and of the behaviour and af∣fection of every Person of Quality throughout the Kingdom. Such vast Powers were given to these Major-Generals, that there was nothing they might not doe, and indeed did not doe; they using it to the full. And for this purpose these Major-Generals had an office in Fleetstreet in London, as other Courts had, where their Recognances were enter'd, and all other concerns and dependances belonging to them recorded or register'd. Of some they took yearly the 10th penny, of others they took a sum of money for Composition, usually at three years purchase, which many were willing to pay, who had money, rather than to be continually troubled with them.

And now the year 1656 Commencing, which by the Instrument was a Parliamentary-year, in July Oli∣ver issues out his Writs for his second Parliament, to sit on the 17th of September following. But in the mean time Rear-Admiral Stainer, with six other Ships of the English Fleet, met with the Spanish Fleet near Cadiz, returning from the West-Indies with Plate, where he sunk several of them, with great treasure, and took others, which he brought away, with two Millions of pieces of Eight, which amounts to 400000 pounds Sterling. There were several Noble men and Dons of Spain, taken Prisoners, whom Cromwell treated handsomely, and after a little while generously sent them home without Ransom.

And now on the 17th of September 1656, the ap∣pointed time for the Meeting of the Parliament, those who were Elected met, and chose for their Speaker Sir Thomas Widdrington. The Major-Generals had a great hand in chusing this Parliament, who by their Arbitrary Power and Authority, caused whom they pleased to be chosen, and it was thought it was one of Cromwell's policies to Constitute them for that end, wanting a Parliament that might give him money: And also by their most tyrannical sway they had ren∣dred themselves so odious to the Royalists, that they desired rather any other Government should be than these Bashaw's; and it was indeed thought to be one of Cromwell's policies in their Constitution, that their tyranny might cause his Iron yoke alone to sit more easie about their necks, for he gave them up to the Parliament who abolish'd them.

His design of making himself King, and of wearing the Imperial Crown, and of becoming a legal Monarch, and of transmitting it to his posterity, now plainly was manifested, though God did not see it good, to let the Iniquity of the Nation run on so far, as to dis∣inherit the right line, having in his Wisedom re∣solved to continue it, to the posterity of Cha••les the Martyr; for though Cromwell knew, he had more Power, and greater Dominion, and was more abso∣lute than any King of England, yet the glorious Title of King, and the wearing of a Crown, was the desire of his ambitious soul, not that it could add more to his Power, but he imagined, that by that means, he should be accounted more legal, for that the Crown takes away all attaint, and that perhaps he might be able to transmit it to his posterity, and make it he∣reditary in his own line. He knew his tyrannick Usurpation was against all the Laws of the Land, and that he could hold what he had got, no longer than the Army pleased to stick to him, who, like an head-strong beast, was grown so skittish, he had much a∣doe to master it; but by setling the Crown on his own

head, he thought to reduce every thing to its old channel, the race of the Stuarts only changed, for that of Cromwells; and for this end he now began all he could, to court the Nobility and Gentry of the Royal Party, after he had sufficiently humbled and crush'd them, and made them poor, all to sweeten them against his assuming the Crown, having got, as he hop'd, a Parliament for his purpose: for none were admitted into this Parliament, after their Ele∣ctions, but such as the Council allowed of, and many persons, that Oliver durst not trust, were in this Par∣liament, and that he thought not fit to sit, till some Laws were first made, for the strengthning his Autho∣rity, and carrying on of his design. There was there∣fore a Recognition of his Highness Government by a single person, placed ready with a Guard of Red-coats, to be signed before any of the Members went into the House, and such as refused to sign it were dis∣missed, and not suffered to sit; by which means near 200 at the first were excluded, those that sat taking no notice of this most horrid force. And now let those who so much stand up for Law and Justice, and cry out upon Arbitrary Rule tell me if ever a greater could be acted upon the Liberties of the Peo∣ple in denying them their freedoms in the sitting of their Representatives in Parliament, and if any of the most Arbitrary Kings of England ever did or durst attempt the like? But what might not, and what did not this Tyrant and Usurper doe?

At first this Parliament went on very smoothly, and to the content of their Protectorian Master; the first thing was, they made a Vote declaring his War with Spain to be just and honourable, with a resolu∣tion of assisting him in it: Then as a Grand step for him to Mount the Throne, they make an Act for the renouncing the title of ••harles Stuart, and the whole line of King James, unto the Crown of England, Scot∣land and Ireland; seconded with another, for the se∣curing his Highness Person, and the continuance of

the Nations peace, which was bound up in it. And this last Act was made by reason of a Plot then disco∣vered against his Person, by one Syndercomb, or rather a Contrivance of his Secretary Thurlo's, to further his designs. This Syndercomb was a Leveller, or Fifth-Monarchy-man, and disbanded by Monk in Scotland, who being a resolute fellow, and disgusted, was drawn in by two of Thurlo's Creatures, one Cecil and Toop of Cromwell's Life-guard, who pretending a Male-contentedness, easily drew him in to a design of Mur∣thering the Tyrant, there being about that time, a book printed and published, with the name Allen to it, a disbanded Leveller, called Killing no Murther, which with notable Arguments proved the Lawfulness of Killing Cromwell, as an Usurper and Tyrant, which book almost scared him out of his wits, and made him ever after afraid of every strange face that came near him; and made him betake himself to these artifices, to affright assassinates by his severity. Syn∣dercomb being thus trepann'd and drawn in, by his Instruments, had prepared a Blunderbuss, and had placed it to shoot him in his Coach going to Hampton-Court; and if that failed, he was to have fired White-Hall, by placing a Basket of combustible matter in the Chapel, with a train, all which is discovered; Syndercomb and his Companions seized, the Life-guard men confess the Plot, and are pardoned, Syndercomb is tryed for it at the upper Bench-bar, (as they then called it) and convicted by the Witness of his fellow Conspirators, he was Condemn'd to be Hang'd, Drawn and Quarter'd at Tyhurn, but before his Execution he was found dead, and poysoned in the Tower, by him∣self as the Inquest of the Coroner found it, though by others suspected to be a fineness of Thurlo's; however, as a felo de se he was drawn at an Horses tail to Tower-hill, and there put into the ground under the Scaffold, and a Stake driven thorow his Body. This occasi∣oned the Act to be hastned for his Highness preserva∣tion, and a thanksgiving Voted for this great deli∣very,

the Parliament attending him at White-Hall in the Banqueting-house, where a Congratulatory Ora∣tion upon this occasion was made to him. The next day the time being very convenient, Alderman Pack started a motion, that for the better and more sure settlement of the Nation, the Protector might be de∣sired to assume the stile and title of King, as the most known and most agreeable Government to the peo∣ple of England: this was hotly pursued by the Court-party of the House, which after several hot debates produced, The Humble Petition and Advice: of which ••e shall speak anon.

The horrible licentiousness of these times, had ripened the birth of strange and monstrous Opinions and Heresies, and all places swarm'd with these kind of creatures, of an hundred different perswasions: The Ranters grew numerous, and committed their beastialities under the notion of Liberty of Consci∣ence publickly, turning debauchery and all manner of wickedness into a Religion; some lying with their Wives, or other women openly in the Market-place, several, both men and women running stark naked, without the least rag to hide their shame, about the streets, and into Churches, pretending a Command from the spirit for these Actions. Then the Socini∣ans encreased, who denied the Divinity of Christ, one Biddle being infamous for those Opinions: and one Erbery, once a Minister, for Ranting. Then the Quakers began to grow numerous, under George Fox their head, and so troublesome, that they disquieted Oliver himself, who liked not their Antiministerial principles. But above the rest, James Naylor was at this time remarkable, who grew to that height of delusion and phrensie, as to personate our Saviour, and procured a divine worship or adoration to be given to him, by some women attending him. He had been formerly a Soldier under Lambert, who stickled much to save him from punishment, but the Parliament now sitting, take the matter into their

cognisance; being sent up from Bristol, where he was, he appears before them with a composed counte∣nance, his hair hanging after the fashion of those pictures made for our Saviour, and with a forked beard, often answering the questions put to him with Thou sayest it. He was accused of Blasphemy, and for assuming to himself divine Honours, he ha∣ving had Hosanna's sung before him, and such ex∣pressions used to him, as the people of the Jews used towards our Saviour, when he rode into Jerusalem, a little before his Crucifixion. He used several evasions, but the House sentenced him, to be, both at London and Bristol, publickly Whipt, through both the Cities, to stand in the Pillory, to have his Tongue bored thorow, and to be stigmatized in the forehead with the letter B, for a Blasphemer; and then to remain in Bridewell during pleasure: which sentence was with great severity inflicted upon him, and which he underwent with a more than ordinary patience and resolution.

The Parliament having made an Act, for Preventing of Multiplicity of Buildings, within ten miles of Lon∣don, and that every house within that compass, built upon a new foundation, should pay a years Rent to the Protector; they fall upon the Petition and Advice. In the mean time, Cromwell designing the Succession of his Usurpation for his Son Richard, begins to shew him to the World; but that he might give Lambert no Umbrage of his Intentions, he keeps him for some time in the Country in Hamshire, where he had Mar∣ried the Daughter of one Major, with whom he had a plentiful Fortune. Here he grows familiar and kind to the Royalists, insinuating into them by his debonare Carriage, and serving many of them in seve∣ral requests to his Father, endeavouring to get their good liking, by his Civilities, and af••able Disposition. The first publick Honour done him, was in making him Chancellor of Oxford, which his Father had re∣signed for that purpose; then he was Sworn a Privy-Counsellor,

and made a Colonel in the Army, that he might have an Interest in all Parties, and not long afterwards was made the first Lord of the other House, after the re-meeting of the Parliament, and stiled the Noble Lord Richard. Cromwell, to prepare his way, had likewise his News-writer Marchiamount Needham, who tells the people there is no everlasting principle in Government, which is but a temporary expedient, and that in the hazard of a Common-wealth, the next shift might be made use of; which was a King, as most agreeable and necessary. He had likewise an ill Poet, Pagan Fisher, who in a Rodomontado stile, sung his Atchievements in Latin Verse, together with the Vertues of the pious Bradshaw.

Oliver having prepared things for them, as well as he could, the Parliament proceed hotly upon the Petition and Advice, which was their new Model of Government, and with which on the 9th of April 1657, the Parliament having desired a meeting with the Pro∣tector, they wait upon him in the Banqueting-house at White-Hall, where Sir Thomas Widdrington in a set Speech commended the office of a King, as setled here ever since Christianity, approved by our An∣cestors, agreeing best with our Laws, and temper of the People; a Model of which Government, as most proper for the good and security of the Nation, he there presented him with. The old Fox returns, That 'tis a weighty Matter, and therefore desired time to seek God in it; for without his Assistance, the charge would be too great for him to bear. That the English were the best people in the world, and therefore all tenderness imaginable should be shewed to them, and nothing done without due considera∣tion of their benefit: with much more of the like nature. The next day a Committee was appointed to attend him for his Answer; which being delivered after a dubious manner, they resolve to force it upon him, and adhering to their Petition, frame a Com∣mittee of near half their House to attend him, both

to hear and give satisfaction to his doubts and scru∣ples, in this case. The chief of these were Whitlock, Lord Chief Justice Glyn, Lord Broghill, Lenthal, Lisle, Philip Jones, Fiennes, Strickland, Thurlo, Sir Richard Onslow and Sir Charles Woosley.

And now it might be wondred at, that Cromwell having this fair opportunity, did not accept of this proffer, so much urged; no doubt but he most ea∣gerly desired it, yet was he so cautious and fearfull, lest that, like the Dog in the Fable, he should snatch too greedily at the shadow of Royalty, and should lose the boundless power or substance of his Tyranny, or in seeking to fortifie his title, lose his tenure: for he well understood the temper of the Army, and that by the means of Lambert (who began to smell out his design, and fearing to lose the Succession promi∣sed him) was ready to Mutiny; which if he should l••se, he were undone, knowing all his title was main∣tained, by the power of their Swords, and that there∣fore he must wear such title, as they please, or would be contented with; therefore considering, that it would not be safe for him at this time to accept it, he was forced with reluctancy to put it off to a more convenient season. Many meetings and debates how∣ever they had about it, and many Arguments held Pro and Con between them: The Committee alledged that the title of King had been confirmed by Parlia∣ments, for above 1300 years, and that neither the Person or Name of King had been displeasing to them. That it was interwoven with the Laws, and was most necessary to be assumed: For that the Title ought to be accommodated to the Laws, not the Laws to it; as they must if he continued the name of Protector. That new titles were ever suspected, and that the name of Protector had still been unfortunate to the King∣dom, and to themselves: That it being given him by the Soldiers, it smelt too much of Conquest: That the Roman Empire never thrived so well, but was al∣w••ys full of confusion, under the titles of Consuls,

Dictators or Prince of the Senate, as it did under the title of Kings, untill Caesar came to settle the Empire: they also lay'd before him the reasons for the changing the Title of Lord to King of Ireland, in the time of King Henry the 8th for the better and more regular Government of the Nation. But their main Argu∣ment was drawn from the Statutes of 9 Edw. 5. and 3 H. 7. by which all persons were indemnified that took up Arms for the King in being, and would be a great security to himself and the people, to have it thus setled upon him by Act of Parliament: But for all this, for the Reasons aforesaid, his fears surmounted his Ambition, he at last gave them a peremptory Refusal, telling them that it was against his Consci∣ence, and that he could not offend so many Godly men and Officers of the Army, who had declared against the title and office of King; but he desired that the Title of Protector, and the Government by a single person, might be confirmed by consent of this Parliament.

Upon this his refusal, which was cryed up as a great Vertue, and sign of his Humility, the Parlia∣ment confirm him in his former title and dignity, and an explanatory part to the Petition and Advice was prepared, in respect of the Protector's Oath, his Counsels, Members of the House of Commons, and of the other House (as they called it, instead of the House of Lords) which were to sit, and to consist of 60 odd Lords of Cromwell's making. The chief heads of the Petition and Advice were, 1. That he should exercise the Office of Chief Magistrate under the Title of Protector of England, Scotland and Ireland, and to govern according to the Petition and Advice, and that in his life-time he should appoint his Suc∣cessor. 2. That a Parliament should be called every three years at farthest, and that it should consist of two Houses. 3. That the Members of Parliament legally chosen, should not be secluded the House, but by consent of the House (notwithstanding this he did

not re-admit the secluded Members of this House which he had cast out) 4. Shewed certain quali∣fications for the Members to be chosen. 5. The power of the other House was declared. 6. That no Law should be altered, repealed or made, but by Act of Parliament. 7. That the constant yearly Re∣venue of the Army and Navy be setled, and that to be a Million of Pounds Sterling, and 300000 l. more for the support of the Government, besides other Temporary supplies, as the House of Commons should see necessary and fit. 8. That the Protector's Coun∣cil should not exceed the number of 21, nor to be under 9, and 7 of them to be a Quorum. 9. That the chief Officers of State to be chosen or approved by the Parliament. 10. That his Highness should in∣courage a Godly Ministry. 11. That the Protestant Religion should be professed, and that he should cause a Confession of Faith to be made, and that none should be permitted to reproach it, or revile it by words or writings. With some other matters of less importance.

With this, the aforementioned Acts, with an Act for Assessment of 60000 l. a month, for three months: Another Money Act for 50000 l. for England, 6000 l. for Scotland, and 9000 l. for Ireland, with some others concerning Trade, were presented to Cromwell to Sign by the Parliament: To whom, returning them many thanks, he said, That he perceived that among those many Acts they had made, that they had taken great care to provide for the just and necessary support of the Common-wealth, by those Bills for Levying of Money, and understanding that it had been formerly the practice of the chief Governours, to acknowledge with thanks to the Commons, their care and regard to the Publick, therefore he very heartily thank'd them, and acknowledged their kindness therein. And after he had signed these Bills, and the Petition and Advice, and Articles therein, He told them, That he had undertaken one of the greatest burthens that

ever was laid upon the back of any humane creature, and therefore he asked their help and prayers to God, that he might have the divine Assistance, for the dis∣charging of this great trust. And that for his part, nothing should have induced him to have taken upon him this unsupportable burthen to flesh and blood, but that he had seen in the Parliament a great care of those things, that might make clearly for the Liberty of the Nations, and for the Interest of such as feared God: And if that the people were not thank full to them for their great care, it would fall as a sin upon their heads. With much more of the same nature.

This being done, they prepare for the Solemnity of his Inauguration or Investure anew, for though he was before solemnly inaugurated into the Prote∣ctorate, as you have heard, according to the Instru∣ment, yet it was thought fit that it should be done again, for the greater confirmation of the business, because the Articles of this Petition and Advice were different from the former Instrument: For now there was to be another House; and whereas before his Council was to name his Successor, he had now power to doe it himself, so that he was an absolute Mo∣narch, and might leave the Succession to his Son if he pleased. A Committee being appointed for this purpose, on the 26th of June 1657, before a great assembly of people, and with much more Ceremony than before, he was installed in Westminster-Hall, un∣der a great Canopy of State, in great pomp and much magnificence, too long for me here to relate; the Great Seal being carried by the Lord Commissioner Fiennes, and the Sword by the Earl of Warwick. The City Sword by the Lord Mayor Tichbourn, all bare-headed: The Dutch and French Ambassadors be∣ing also present. The Speaker of the House of Com∣mons presenting him with a Robe of Purple Velvet, a Bible, a Sword and a Sceptre, making a Speech to him in presenting them: Telling him, that the

Purple Robe was an Emblem of Magistracy, and im∣ported Righteousness and Justice: The Bible con∣taining the Holy Scriptures, was Christ Veiled and Revealed, and contained both Precepts and Exam∣ples for good Government: The Sceptre not unlike a Staff, was to shew he was to be the Staff of the poor and weak, of ancient use; for that the Scrip∣ture says, The Sceptre should not depart from Judah, and that Kings and Princes were called by Homer Sceptre-bearers: That the Sword was not only a Mi∣litary, but a Civil Sword, a Sword rather of defence, than of offence, to defend himself and his people: Upon which he would presume to write this Motto, Ego sum Domini Protectoris ad protegendum Populum Meum. I am the Lord Protectors, to protect my Peo∣ple. This being ended, he gave the Protector his Oath on the Bible, and Mr. Manton made a Prayer, wherein he recommended the Protector, the Parlia∣ment, the Army and Government to God: which done, the Trumpets sounded, and the Heraulds pro∣claimed him Protector of England, Scotland and Ire∣land, and the Dominions thereunto belonging. Af∣ter which he returned in great State, the Lord Sher∣rard and the Lord Roberts his eldest Son carrying his Train. The Pageantry being finished, the House ha∣ving done like good Boys, have leave to play, for returning to their House, they adjourn themselves to the 20th of January following.

Being thus setled in his Dignity, he began to live more splendidly, and like a King, having a very full Court, and after a Monarchical Manner, all his Officers of State. Steel was made Chief Baron, and Lam∣bert Warden of the Cinque-Ports; but that would not satisfie him, for he was not a little disgusted, that Cromwell had power given him to nominate his Suc∣cessor, and he now plainly perceived his Intentions of setling the Succession in his Children, for which he now resolves, if he can, to ruine him with the Army. But Cromwell is vigilant, and had on the

19th of April, at a certain house in Shoreditch, taken several of the Champions of the Fifth-Monarchy men, among whom was one Venner, a Preaching Wine-Cooper, Ashton, Gowler, Hopkins, and Gray their Scribe, these were to have risen, and with them was taken a considerable quantity of Arms, and their Standard, with a Lyon-Couchant, Guiles, in a Field Argent, with this Motto: Who shall rouse him? The late Vice-Admiral Lawson and Major Danvers were secured: As also Major Wildman, who was taken at Marlborow drawing up a Declaration against him, and clapt up in order to his Tryal. And hearing of private Subscriptions to Petitions and Addresses to the Parliament, carrying on in the Army against Kingship, he peremptorily sent to them to desist up∣on their peril, and so over-aw'd and dasht them, that they durst not go on with their attempt. There was no body now very considerable of their own party, that could give him any disturbance but Lam∣bert; and to secure himself against him, he followed the example Lambert had set him before, in securing himself against the Rump Parliament, and caused all the Army, by his Privado's, Regiment after Regi∣ment, to subscribe Addresses, Congratulating his le∣gal Authority, and declaring their readiness to stand by him with their Lives and Fortunes.

This year, on the 20th of April 1657, that great action of General Blake was performed against the Spaniards, at Santa Cruze, in the Island of Tenarif, where he burnt their whole West-India Ships, being 16 in number; notwithstanding they were barraca∣do'd in the Haven, and defended by a Castle well fortified, and 7 Forts, and got forth of their Haven without any loss; for which considerable service the Protect••r and Parliament ordered him a Jewel of 500 l. and gratuities to the other Officers and Soldi∣ers. But this Valiant and Renowned Seaman did not long out-live this his memorable exploit, dying at Sea, as he was entring the sound of Plymouth:

Never any Seaman performed so many Actions, re∣dounding to the Glory of the English Nation, as he did; and it was his only misfortune, that he serv'd not a lawfull Prince.

And now the 20th of January being come, at which time the Parliament was to re-assemble, they met accordingly, but they now were quite another thing, than what they were before; for according to the Clause in the Petition and Advice, That the per∣sons legally Chosen should not be secluded, but by the con∣sent of the House; those Members that Cromwell had before kept out by force, were now re-admitted, though against his mind; who presently gave him a disturbance. Then according to their new Mo∣del, there was the other House, for as yet they did not dare to call it a House of Lords, which con∣sisted of his chiefest Favourites of the Army-Officers and others, and many pick'd out of the House of Commons, some of them being of the excluded Commonwealths-men, whom he hoped to draw to his party by this obligation, about half a score like∣wise of the old Nobility were nominated, thinking to draw them in, but they refused to come. The Houses being thus altered in their Constitution, quickly let Cromwell see he was deceived in his hopes, for Hazelrig and others disdaining his proffer'd Baronage, took their seats in the Commons House, where they thought they should doe more good; and by which means the Commonwealths-men grew so high, that the other House was not taken notice of, but fell to questioning all their fellows had done, during their Seclusion, and had the Messages of the other House in contempt and derision. And now the Humble Petition and Advice was like to be over∣thrown. The news of their proceedings so inraged the mind of Oliver, seeing his great Hopes of being King so suddenly dasht, that contrary to the advice of his Council, he goes to them, and for haste takes an Hackney-Coach, and entring into the other House,

and standing under a Canopy of State, he sends for the Commons to come to him; who being come, with much eagerness made them a long Speech; which being remarkable, I shall recite some few heads:

That the Lord was his witness; his desires of carry∣ing on the affairs of the Nation, were for the ends of Mercy, Truth, Righteousness and Peace, which he de∣sired might be improved. That there was not a Man or Woman treading upon English Ground, could say that he sought the place of Protector, but he thought the Nations happy therein. But that he was Petitioned thereunto by them, who had the Legislative Power, to take up a burthen too heavy for any creature, there∣fore did look they should make it good to him. That he could say in the presence of God, before whom they were all but poor creeping Ants upon the Earth, he had rather have kept sheep, than undertook such a place of Government as that was. That he had told them he would not undertake it, unless he might have men that should go between him and the House of Commons, to prevent tumultuary spirits; which was granted, and he had named another House, and that it was not Titles or Lords that they valued, but a Christian and English Interest, who would be a ballance to them and themselves, and of their own rank and quality, whilst they loved England and Religion. That he thought he had been doing his duty, and that they would be satis∣fied; but if they were too high and too low, they would not be satisfied. That God knew he had taken an Oath upon condition, expressed in the Government, and thought he had been upon a sure foundation, and that the con∣sequence had been confusion if he had not done it. That there were no hereditary Lords or Kings setled, the power consisting in the two Houses and himself, and that God would judge between them and him. God was his witness, that there was a seeking of a new settlement in the Army, that he spake not to those Gentlemen, (meaning his Lords) or what they would call them,

but to them the Commons that advised him to that place; yet that instead of owning him, some of them must have they did not know what. And that they were running the Nation into confusion again; by their intention of devising a Commonwealth, that some of the people might be the Men that might rule all, and that those things were not according to God and according to Truth; pretend what they would, it was a playing a game for the King of Scots, if he mought call him so, and therefore he thought himself bound before God to doe what he meant to prevent it. God was his witness, he told them what was true, the King of Scots had an Army at the water-side, ready to be Shipt for England, and that he had the knowledge of it from an eye-witness. That they had not only been endeavouring to pervert the Army, to draw them to a Commonwealth, but some of them, while sitting▪ had been listing of persons by Com∣mission from Charles Stuart, to joyn with any insurre∣ction that should be made; that if this was the end of their sitting, and that if these were their carriages, con∣cluding, he thought it high time to put an end to their sitting; and therefore, by the living God, he declared to them, that he did Dissolve that Parliament. To which many of the Commons cry'd out, Amen. And thus ended this Parliament crossing and vexing Oliver to the heart, for he expected more supplies of Money.

Oliver having thus dismist this Parliament, and rid himself of that fear, begins to fortifie himself against the Royalists, who had indeed formed a new Plot, for the bringing in their King, but were betray'd by Willis and one Corcar a Minister of Sussex, who had been long employed by Cromwell for that purpose: The Royalists were glad the Parliament was dissolved, for they feared a Commonwealth much more than Cromwell; not that he was less Tyrannical, or had used them more favourably, but for that the other sort of Government had rendred it self formidable, and was in danger to have been more permanent

than Oliver's Kingly Protectorship could, for they be∣lieved, as they well might, that King Oliver would never be long endured by the people, whose eyes must needs be opened, and see that he was got into the Throne, and exercised the same power, and far more than the Kings of England ever did, and whom they had flung out only to make way for a Tyrant, and that they would never suffer a man of their own quality and rank thus to play the King amongst them, and to be their Lord, without endeavouring to fling him out. Besides, they found Lambert and the Army so much disgusted, that they would rather have ventur'd all than not to have seen the downfall of Cromwell: so that the Royalists thought all things to be favourable to their design: But Cromwell ha∣ving timely notice of all things by his Agents, among them, he takes care to prevent them, and sending to his right hand Tichbourn, Lord Mayor, causes him to double the City-Guards, and to make great chan∣ges in the Militia, turning out all he suspected, and presently seizes on Sir William Compton, the Earl of Northampton's Brother, Mr. Russel, the Earl of Bed∣ford's Brother, Sir William Clayton and many more: The Marquess of Ormond, who on the design had lain hid for some time in London, hardly escapes his hands. Also he seizes on Mr. Mordant, the Earl of Peterbo∣rough's Brother: Mr. Manley, Mr. Baron, Mr. Stapely, Mr. Mansel, Mr. Woodcock, Mr. Carent, Mr. Jackson, and one Mallory, who was thought to be a decoy to the rest, being pardoned after Condemnation.

And now, to give more terror to the Royalists, Cromwell resolves again to new dye his hands in Blood, by the old Arbitrary and Tyrannical way: Up goes the High Court of Justice, and its bloody President Lisle, who on the 25th of May 1658 sat. Cromwell had pickt out two Eminent Men to begin with, one Lay-man Sir Henry Slingsby, imprisoned ever since the West-Rising, and one Clergy-man, the Reverend Dr. Hewet, Sir Henry Slingsby was ac∣cused

(though falsly) to have endeavoured to be∣tray Hull, whilst a Prisoner there, and for holding Correspondence with Charles Stuart, for which he was Condemned for a Traytor, and sentenced to be be-headed, which Death he suffer'd on Tower-hill on the 8th of June following, though great applica∣tion to save his life had been made to Cromwell, by his Nephew, and Cromwell's Son-in-law, the Lord Faulconbridge; but the Tyrant was inexorable, ha∣ving before-hand with Thurlo resolved on the Death of these two men. The next was Dr. Hewet, who was accused before the same Court, for Conspiring against the Government, and holding intelligence with the King. But the Doctor Demurred to the Juris∣diction of the Court, citing divers Law-Cases, and giving many Reasons against their authority, desiring them to evince to him the legality of their Court, and he would plead to his charge. But this they would not, nor were able to doe; and whilst he dis∣puted with them, they took the advantage of de∣manding his Plea three times; after which, though he then desired it, seeing they would record him a Mute, they would not admit, for being designed for slaughter, had they admitted him to plead, he would have escaped them, for want of Witnesses, which it seems failed them at that time. The Doctor had an Eloquent Tongue, was of great esteem and abilities, and Preached long at St. Gregory's, where he some∣times could not forbear to deplore the misery of the Kingdom, so that Cromwell had a particular desire to rid him out of the way, as a most dangerous man, and took this occasion to doe it; upbraiding the Doctor with very bitter and unbecoming lan∣guage, when he was brought before him to be exa∣mined. However, though he was Condemned as a Mute, yet he had the favour to be beheaded, and suffer'd the same day with Sir Henry Slingsby; where he prayed almost an hour with great zeal and fer∣vour of spirit, having his head severed from his

body, he dyed with much Christian Magnani∣mity.

The next that came to his Tryal, was Mr. Mor∣dant, who at first denied the Jurisdiction of the Court, but was by his friends at last perswaded to plead, and was quitted by one voice only, for very fortunately Col. Pride being taken with a fit of the Stone, went off the Bench, to the saving his life. Then Mr. Woodcock and Sir Humphrey Bennet, were tryed and acquitted: Mallory confest, was condemn'd, but not executed. Then Mr. Carent was try'd and acquitted. Mr. Henry Frier was condemned by them; but when going to be executed in Smithfield, he was reprieved: the like hapned to John Summer, who was condemned to dye in Bishopsgate-street, and Oliver Allen in Gracechurch-street, who had their Re∣prieves brought them: Baron, Manly, Mansel, with one Seymour and Carlton, all imprison'd on the same account, made their escape, but were arraigned, though absent, and condemned.

But Edward Ashton, John Bettely and Edward Stacy were also tryed before this Court, for the same Crime, of raising War, and seeking the Death of Cromwell, where all three were Condemned, with little or no proofs against them; Col. Ashton was a known Cavalier, and a Prisoner for Debt in Newgate; but being permitted by favour to go abroad, fell into the company of one of Cromwell's Trepanners, who went stroling about for prey, who informs the Se∣cretary of dangerous words spoken by this Ashton, for which he was tryed and condemned, though he denied them at his Death, and was hang'd, drawn and quarter'd in Tower-street, the Tyrant making all parts of the City his Shambles, of humane flesh, for the greater terror: this was his bloody policy. Mr. Bettely was in like manner betray'd, and falsly accused by these Ruffians, the Emissaries of Crom∣well and Thurlo, condemned upon their Oaths, though he protested his Innocency, and was executed in

the midst of Cheapside, being hang'd, drawn and quarter'd: After he had been a long time dead, as they thought, on a sudden he lift up his hands, and pulling off his Cap, looked upon them, staring with his eyes, to all their amazements, till the Executioner dispatch'd him. These suffer'd on the 2d of July 1658. and two dayes after Mr. Stacy was only hang'd: Many more, who were imprisoned and designed to death, escaped by Oliver's Death, which was not very long after.

He was no sooner rid of the fear of this Plot, by these Executions, but he was again troubled by Lam∣bert's Cabal, who had inveigled both Fleetwood and Desborow, Cromwell's near relations, with their Com∣monwealth Principles, though Lambert intended on∣ly the setting up of himself, in Cromwell's stead. But Cromwell now dallies no longer with them, but takes away Lambert's Commission, and lays him aside, and disposes his Regiments to others, whom he could better trust, and sends into the Army several Spies and Eves-droppers, to let him know the temper and behaviour of the Officers, and of their inclinations, whereby he might the better reform them.

This bloody Tyrant, becoming Sanguinary, (as all other Tyrants doe) grows very fearfull and suspici∣ous, and began to dread every strange face that came near him, which he would fix his eyes upon, and intentively view, for fear of an assassination; for that Book of Killing no Murther still ran dreadfully in his mind, and made him to take all the care he could of himself, oftentimes shifting his Lodgings; to which he passed by twenty several locks, and usually had four or five ways out of them: He seldom went and came the same way between White-Hall and Hampton-Court, and always by private and by-ways, and in a great hurry, his Guards before and behind, still on the Gallop, and his Coach (especially the boots) filled with armed men, and began to be of very difficult access to all persons. Yet this year he had

success in Flanders, and Dunkirk was surrendred into his hands, and Lockhart General of the Forces there, and his Kinsman made Governor thereof.

And now the Exit of this great Tyrant and Usur∣per draws near, being ushered in with a Prodigy three Months before; for on the 2d of June a great Whale came up as far as Greenwich, and was there killed. His beloved Daughter Cleypool, not long be∣fore him also dyed, with an Ulcer in her Bladder, which caused such acute pains, that put her into a Feaver, and in her raving Fits she much call'd up∣on that bloody Tyrant her Father, for she had been a Suitor for Dr. Hewet's life, knowing his Innocency, but was denied, which gave her a great disturbance, being sensible of her Father's Tyrannick sway, and Murtherous projects, and of the Peoples hate to∣wards him. Her Death, as they say, went near his heart, being about the beginning of August, which, with the troubles he saw were about to rise from the Officers of the Army, fomented by Fleetwood, who had Married his Daughter; and Desborow, who had Married his Sister, gave him a fit of sickness, being at Hampton-Court, which he thought at first would pass over, being only a Tertian feaver, and his pri∣vate Chaplains fasted and prayed with him; and Goodwin openly declared, that God had heard his prayers, for him, and he was assured he should not dye that bout; but he was a false Prophet, for his Fea∣ver continuing with very ill symptoms, the Physici∣ans not so confident as the Priests, caused him to be removed to White-Hall, and he had been there but few dayes, when they saw very plainly, that he had but few dayes to live; and this being made known to his Privy-Council, they were all very much startled; he finding himself now drawing towards his end, on the 31 of August he caused all people to go out of his Chamber, but Goodwin and Thurlo, to whom he declared, that he nominated his eldest Son Richard Cromwell to succeed him; but these thinking it too

great a thing to be communicated to them alone, advised him to have more Witnesses, lest they should not be credited in so great a concern: He then bid them to send for the Council of 9, which were those he privately managed his more secret concerns by, and these were Fleetwood, Fiennes, Desborow, Whaly, Thurlo, Lawrence, Berry, Cooper and Goff; most of this Junto being come to him, he declared that it was his will; that his Son Richard should succeed him as Protector: Fleetwood bit his lips, having been fool'd into hopes of the Protectorship, as well as Lam∣bert, but little was then said, and on the 3d day of September 1658, memorable to Oliver for two great Victories, Dunbar and Worcester, he yielded to the great Victor Death, and march'd off the Stage of this World in peace, after he had trod it in Blood, War, Rapine, Oppression, Cruelty, Usurpation and Tyranny. Though the report went, the Devil fetch'd him away in the storm, which the night before his Death was so violent, that many of the great Trees in St. James's Park were blown up by the Roots, and that he had seven years before made a Compact with the Devil, that he might obtain the Dominion of the three Kingdoms, and not be prevailed against: but these are Stories, and God's Providence un∣searchable.

I have already given a character of this Man, and a short account of some passages of his Life, before he ascended to his Greatness. He was, no doubt, a man of extraordinary parts, and raised up by God for such great undertakings, as a scourge to this Na∣tion, which was full of evil humours, and had en∣tertained a spirit of Rebellion against both God, the Church, and the King; and that they might behold their errors by those dismal effects that followed up∣on their unnatural Rebellion; and perceiving them, might not in the same age, at least, run into the like, nor pull the like fatal consequences upon their heads,

as Usurpation, and Arbitrary Rule and Tyranny ei∣ther in many, or in one, which God avert, and send peace and tranquility in our dayes. But yet the Memory of this Man is adored by many to this day, and he is the Idol of some, who will yet speak great things of him, though without reason, and putting our decay of trade upon the present ill management of affairs, when indeed it is but the consequence of our Civil Wars, and the great expence of Money, drained away from the Royalists, the vast sums raised on the people by Taxes, Assessments and Excise, which coming into the Soldiers pockets, they set it going into motion; which with the vast sums raised on the sale of the Kings, Queens, Princes, Bishops and Delinquents Lands, made a flood of money for the present, and nothing of want then appeared, which was the effect rather of the Tyrant's rapacity, than good management; for when this glut began to fall again into the private sinks of rich men, who lived by the use of money; and others who had any great sums fallen to their shares, fearing the iniqui∣ties of the times, and knowing no man could pro∣mise himself to be long master of his own, especially money, where the Will of the Tyrant was Law, and whom to disoblige was fatal, they remitted vast sums for their security into the bank in Holland, making them rich, by trading with our money, whilst we sat contented with 3 l. per cent for to be secure; so that our trade fell, and in some time after a scarcity of money appeared, which such who only look on the present time, and considered not truly the reason, attributed to the ill management of the present Governour, or of those who sat at the Helm. And therefore we may say, that the low ebb of Trade in our time had its beginning in Oliver's time. And we may likewise consider, that in his short Usurpa∣tion, which was but four years and nine months, there was shewn so much Tyranny, Oppression and Injustice, as (excepting the time of the Rumps

sitting) was not to be parallell'd in any of the Kings since the Conquest. Besides in his latter dayes, when his fears began to render him cruel, he valued neither honesty or honour, when they stood in the way of his Ambition, and therefore to me 'tis a wonder, for what it was they admired this Man; and must be caused either by partiality or ig∣norance. As for his Politicks, his Peace with France, and his War with Spain, was certainly against the Interest of England, in lessning the latter, and making the former too great for Christendom, and loosing the ballance which England ought carefully to keep between those two Monarchs, And then his impoli∣tick Peace with the Dutch, on so easie terms, when brought with great expence of English Blood and Treasure, to that extremity, that England mought have had what terms they would, so that the whole world thought him infatuated, in losing so great an opportunity of doing good to this Nation. Then there is nothing more certain, that all the Persecution that hath since hapned in France, of that King's Pro∣testant Subjects, was the effects of his joyning in a League with France at that time; by which means that King humbled Spain, and made way for his Con∣quests in Flanders since atchieved, and inabled him to subdue all Factions at home, which were then arising, and brought him into a condition, to need none of them, being grown since the scourge and terrour of Christendom. His shamefull defeat at Hispaniola, with the loss of 1500 Merchants Ships to the Spaniard in that War, as was made appear to Richard's Parliament, and in his spending such vast sums of money, and yet leaving a vast debt up∣on the Kingdom, as appeared by the Accounts brought into Richard's Assembly, may stand in bal∣lance against his Victories, and shew that he was not always successfull, and that he had not managed his affairs with that frugality and wisedom, as some have thought he did, when as by his own accounts it

appeared, notwithstanding the great incomes he had, and the many Parliamentary supplies, he had con∣tracted a debt of no less than 1900000 l. As for his Tyranny and Oppression, 'tis needless to men∣tion it, that may be seen throughout this History. Yet I cannot but instance here, that injustice of his to John Lilburn, who had been tryed for his Life by the Long Parliament, and acquitted, and by them discharged; yet because Oliver knew him a dange∣rous man, and one that might give him a trouble, caused him to be tryed a second time; and though then also cleared by the Law, yet according to his own Arbitrary Will, against Law, and with all inju∣stice and cruelty imaginable, kept him close Pri∣soner so long, that he was almost consumed by sick∣ness, that he turned him out only to dye. Again, What greater injustice could there be, than that shown to Mr. Cony, who being a Prisoner at Crom∣well's Suit; and being brought to the King's or up∣per Bench-bar, as they call'd it, by an Habeas Corpus, causes his Counsel to be violently taken from the Bar, and sent to the Tower, for no other reason, than the Pleading his Clients Cause; such an Act of vio∣lence, as cannot be parallell'd in all the History of England. Yet this blessed man is admired. As for his ingratitude that appeared to Sir Henry Vain, who above all persons in the world was the cause of his advancement, and had long espoused his In∣terest, yet he studied to destroy him both in his Life and Estate, because he would not adhere to his perjury and falseness: And because Vain opposed him, he imprison'd him, and would have proceeded farther against him. In Richard's Assembly, upon the complaint of several Prisoners, kept close in the Tower, many being sent away most inhumanely, and sold for Slaves beyond Seas; the Lieutenant being sent for, and demanded by what Authority he had kept those in his custody so long Prisoners, he produced a Paper written all with Oliver's own hand; in which

were these words: Sir, I pray you seize such and such persons, and all others, whom you shall judge dan∣gerous men, doe it quickly, and you shall have a War∣rant for it after you have done. Upon which Rich∣ard's Assembly Voted this Commitment of the Com∣plainants, to be illegal, unjust and Tyrannical as no doubt it was. This was a spice of his Justice, whereby any man was rendred obnoxious not only to himself, but to the malice or spleen of his Lieu∣tenant, though he were never so innocent: And at this rate, he might take up and imprison whom he pleased, and no man was in safety, and that by the chief Governour's Warrant, who by Law can Com∣mit no man by his own Warrant: And this too without any cause shewn, why or wherefore. And the same men Voted, that those banish'd or sent away were unjustly, and against all Law so sent away, for the Law says no English man ought to be banished, by less authority than by Act of Parliament: and or∣dered forthwith the Prisoners to be set free, without Fees or Charges; and had they sat longer, had un∣doubtedly punished the Lieutenant too. Then after publick faith given, and the party restored to Com∣mon Privileges, he caused that most horrid Order of Decimation to be put in execution, on the poor Cavaliers by his Janizaries, which was by the ensu∣ing Parliament damned as an unjust and wic•••••• breach of Faith. This however is the great, the just, the brave, victorious, pious and most renowned Oliver, who, as I have said, is yet by some remem∣bred even to a kind of Idolatry; but I shall leave him, having long since received his deserved reward, and conclude with the rapture of Sterry, who Preaching his Funeral Sermon, had these blasphemous expressi∣ons of him: As sure (says he) as this is the Bible, (which he held in his hand) the blessed spirit of Oliver Cromwell is with Christ, at the right hand of the Fa∣ther; and if he be there, what may not his family ex∣pect from him; for if he were so usefull and helpfull,

and so much good influenced from him to them, when he was in a Mortal State, how much more influence will they have from him, now in heaven; The Father, Son and Spirit, through him bestowing Gifts and Graces up∣on them. I shall now proceed to the second Scene of this single Usurpation and Tyranny, which brought his Son, short-liv'd Dick, upon the Stage.

Oliver being thus dead, on the 3d. of September, about three of the Clock in the afternoon, he was opened and embalmed; but he stunk so filthily, though wrapt in Cearcloths and Lead, with Aroma∣tick Spices, that they were fain to bury him private∣ly; but a Coffin was carried to Somerset-house, where after some days, with his Effigies made for that pur∣pose, he seem'd to lye in great state, pomp and mag∣nificence, to which sight crouds of people daily pressed. The out-rooms all hung with black, with Scutcheons, hanging on the Walls, but the room where the Effi∣gies lay was hung with black Velvet, and the Ceiling of the same, having a large Canopy of the same deeply fringed: the Effigies being Robed in Purple Velvet, laced with Gold-Lace, and furred with Ermins, with strings and tassels of Gold: In its right hand a Scep∣tre, in its left a Globe, on his head a Velvet Cap furred with Ermins, and behind his head placed high on a Chair of Tissued Gold, was set an Imperial ••••wn; Eight Silver Candlesticks of about five foot high stood about his Bed of State, with large white Waxtapers burning, of three foot long, all invironed with Rails and Ballisters covered with Velvet, within which stood men in Mourning bare-headed, which was continued for many weeks, and then the Effigies was removed into another room, and vested as be∣fore, set up in a standing posture, with the Crown upon his head; which it seems he now obtained, though he could not wear it while alive. Thus they continued this Pageantry to the 23d of November fol∣lowing, when his Funeral was made, and he carried in great pomp to Westminster, with more cost and state

than ever was bestow'd on any King of England; cost∣ing they say 26000 l. or more, and at last was in∣terred among the Kings and Queens of England, where he lay till the 30th of January 1660, when he had a Resurrection to another Exaltation at Tyburn, where he was a second time interr'd under the Gallows, ac∣cording to his demerits, with his great Counsellors, Ireton and Bradshaw.

But we will leave the dead, and relate, in b••ief, the Transactions of the living. Oliver being gone, the Privy Council met, and a search was made in the Protector's Cabinet, for a Paper safely lay'd up, wherein he had nominated Fleetwood for his Successor; but it was not to be found, therefore they send to him and Desborow to know, if they did acquiesce in the Declaration of the late Protector, which made his Son Richard Crom∣well Protector. To which Fleetwood sent word that he cordially acquiesced in that Declaration of the late Pro∣tector's, concerning his Son's Succession, though any other Paper should be found, in which he had been for∣merly nominated his Successor. This done, the Coun∣cil wait upon Richard, to Condole with him for his Father's Death, and to Congratulate him as Protector. Then Skippon and Strickland were sent to the City, to acquaint them with what was done, and the next day they caused a Proclamation to be made, subscribed by ••hiverton, Lord Mayor, the Council of State, and seve∣ral Officers of the Army, at White-Hall, Charing-Cross, Fleetstreet, and several places in London, Proclaiming Richard Cromwell Protector of the Commonwealth of England, &c. After which the City-Sword by the Lord Mayor, and the Seal by Fiennes were resigned to him, and his Oath was given him by Fiennes, one of the Commissioners of the Great Seal, in which he Swore to maintain the Protestant Religion in its purity, and to govern the three Nations according to the best of his power and skill, according to the Laws. After which he dispatches Messengers to Ireland, to inform his bro∣ther Harry, Deputy there, and to General Monk in

Scotland, to inform them, and to know how they stood affected to his Advancement. And presently he receives Addresses from most of the Counties in England, con∣trived and made at White-Hall, and Protestations from the Armies in England, Scotland and Ireland, to live and dye with him: Also Addresses from the Indepen∣dant Churches, as Goodwins, Nyes, and the rest of them, many giving Adoration to this rising false light, for∣getting the true Sun yet in Eclipse beyond Sea; and the fawning Poets, Waller and Dryden, among the rest praised to the Skies, in their Elegies the dead Tyrant: Richard was proclaimed both at Dublin and at Edenbo∣rough, and all things ran smooth on his side. But how∣ever General Monk liked not the Tyrannical sway of the Army in England, but so early began to form the happy project of his Majestie's Restauration, without which he well perceived these Kingdoms would not be in any setled posture, but be still subject to any Usurper or Usurpers, the Army should set up: but this was a great work, and time not yet ripened for it, he kept the secret in his own breast, and intended to take op∣portunity by the forelock, complying for the present as others did, but in the mean time with great dili∣gence he reformed his Army, and purg'd it from those ill humours, as he knew would soon bring it to destru∣ction; but this also he did wisely and cautiously, and by degrees, for fear of causing too early jealousies of his design.

Richard seeing the many Addresses made to him from the People and Army, and the caresses and flatteries of great ones, being a man of no great reach, thought all had been real, and now began to form to himself an Imagination of setling himself in his Usurpation, and to look somewhat shy on those of the Royal-Party he had before caressed, and done kindness for, shewing more state and greatness than formerly, and growing more reserved to his familiars. But moneys growing scarce, his Council advises him forthwith to call a Parliament, and accordingly Summons are issued out for this Con∣vention

to meet at Westminster on the 27th of January. Elections being made after the usual manner, tho some would have opposed it, and by sending Writs to the several Boroughs, they thought they should get a Par∣liament to their minds, but were deceived. Ireland and Scotland also sent each 30, according to the Model of Government, and for the upper House the chiefest Offi∣cers of the Army were pitch'd upon, but many of them were of such base extraction, that the Commons could hardly be brought to own them. Richard began to have some jealousie of the Army, and finding many of his Council too great favourers of them, and of their power, he began to cast about to have brought in others of his friends to ballance them; but he found such opposition, that he could not bring it about. On the other side, the Army and Sectarian Officers began to be afraid of the ensuing Parliament, and therefore some of them advised him to follow his Father's steps, who was accustomed at such a time to cause the chief∣est Officers of the Army to come up to London, and to be assistant to him on such occasions. This startled Richard, being as much afraid of the Army, as they were of this approaching Convention, yet wanting his Father's courage and resolution, he sent for many of the Army to Town from their Commands, where they had the opportunity of Caballing and laying de∣signs for his destruction. Besides, Lambert, by the fa∣vour of Fleetwood, was got again into Command, and had a Regiment given him, and was as much in the fa∣vour of the Sectaries as ever. Richard was as yet Ge∣neral, when Desborow and others would have perswa∣ded him, that the Army being discontented, and ready to mutiny, the best way for him would be to settle it on some known Officer amongst them, and nominated Fleetwood: but Richard it seems was not so very a fool as to divest himself of that Command, but told them, that by his Father's example, he would keep that for a security both to them and to himself, with∣out which he could not protect them, and that the

Parliament which was suddenly to meet, would give them satisfaction as to their Grievances, to whom he should remit them.

And now at the time prefixed, the Parliament meet, consisting of two Houses, the other House beginning now to be called the upper House; for the Commons was chosen, Mr. Chute a Lawyer, as their Speaker; who sickning, Long, Recorder of London, was chosen pro tempore in his stead; and for the upper House, Na∣thaniel Fiennes, Lord Keeper of the Great Seal was their Speaker. The first fortnight was taken up about the Recognition, with which they were awhile intangled, but at last they Vote; and it was Resolved on Monday 14th of February, That it be part of this Bill to Recognize and declare his Highness, Richard, Lord Protector, and chief Magistrate of the Commonwealth of England, Scot∣land and Ireland, and the Dominions and Territories thereunto belonging. Resolved, That before this Bill be Committed, the House do declare such additional Clauses to be part of this Bill, as may bound the power of the chief Magistrate, and fully secure the Rights and Privileges of Parliament, and the Liberties and Rights of the People; and that neither this, or any other previous Vote, that is, or shall be passed in order to this Bill, shall be of force and binding to the people, till the whole Bill be passed. This done, a Committee of Inspections is setled, to take a view of the Accounts and the Revenue of the Common∣wealth: of which Mr. Scowen was Chair-man. The Commonwealths-men, who were considerable in this Convention, cunningly put in many Debates to gain time; which they did, though the Protectorian party were the major, and so could effect little; yet they had hopes of the infection of the Army, which they knew by means of their Emissaries spread much; for at Wallingford-house Fleetwood, Desborow and Lambert, with several others, held their Consults for the dispos∣sessing of Richard, and Fleetwood was courted to take the Protectorship upon him: Richard had notice given him of their proceedings, and some of his

friends advised him to cut them off, and profer'd to do it if he would be Resolute, and stick to them; but Richard was timerous and fearfull, and had not cou∣rage enough to give them such a Commission, and so lost his opportunity of setling himself.

In the mean time the King had sent a Commission to Arthur Anslow, now Earl of Anglesie, to John Mor∣dant, Brother to the Earl of Peterborow, Sir John Green∣vill, Sir Tho. Peyton and William Leg, giving them power as his Commissioners, to treat with any of his Subjects of England (excepting the Regicides) and to offer them his pardon, if they would now joyn together for his Restauration, and also to assure them of Rewards and Recompence, for any service done for the future towards the bringing in of his said Majesty, and that whatever those his Commissioners should promise in his name, he would ratifie and confirm. This was da∣ted at Brussells 11 March 1659. By this means, and by the wary management of these Gentlemen, the King's designs began to thrive better than formerly, being still betray'd by Thurlo's Agents. So that now there were several Interests at work, and bringing several designs to the Anvil: The King's for his just Rights and Re∣stauration. Richard's for the setling himself in his unjust Usurpation. The Commonwealths-men to regain their lost Dominion and Tyranny; and the Army to keep their Rule, and the people in slavery, and to set up a Governour of their own, and that might be only ruled by their Power. These have all their several close Ca∣bals, and all strenuously busie one against another.

Upon a report made by Secretary Thurlo, concerning the State of the War betwixt Sweden and Denmark, the Parliament send General Mountague with a conside∣rable Fleet into the Sound, but so straiten'd in Com∣mission, that he did little good. The Military-Council of Officers were very high, and favoured much by the upper House, which much distasted the Commons; and made them Vote, That during the sitting of the Par∣liament, there should be no general Meeting or Council of

Officers of the Army, without direction, leave and autho∣rity of the Protector, and both Houses of Parliament. Rich∣ard upon this, by advice, sends for the Council of Offi∣cers, and dismisses them. And the Commons proceed to a farther Vote: Resolved, That no person should have or, continue Command in any of the Armies in England, Scot∣land or Ireland, &c. that should refuse to subscribe, That he will not disturb or interrupt the free meeting in Parlia∣ment; of any of the Members of either House, or their freedoms in their Debates or Counsels. This was trans∣mitted to the other House, who now began to be jea∣lous of a Combination between Richard and the Com∣mons, against the power of the Army, and that they sought to weaken and divide them, so that they did not readily assent to this Vote. Besides, they were not a little displeased at another Vote of the Commons, con∣cerning their Transacting with them as another House; which was, That the acknowledgment of that House for another House of Parliament, should not prejudice the Peer-age of the Land, or their Privileges. And further the Commons Voted, That they would receive no Message from those of the other House, but by some of their own number. Neither would they treat with this upper House, as an House of Lords, but found out a new word, to transact with them, and that upon tryal, and during this pre∣sent Parliament, which they foresaw would not be long, in continuance. The chief of the Officers of the Army were for the Protector, but the more numerous being Sectaries or Phanaticks were for Fleetwood, Desborow and the Wallingfordians; who had made them to believe, that Richard had an intent to cast them out of Com∣missions, and that he would put the Army into the No∣bilities and Gentries hands, who would bring in the King, and destroy the Liberty of the Gospel they had so long fought for.

Thus all parties being highly jealous one of another, none knew how it would end; but since the Power of the Sword, and the Arbitrary and Tyrannick sway of the Army was greatest, it might be well expected they

would prove the strongest party for the rest, having not an Oliver to deal with. However the Commons like English men, went on, resolving for many good Acts, mought they have been permitted to sit to finish them. One was (as they thought) pleasing to the Army, that care might be taken for the payment of their Arrears. They began to assert their Interest in the Militia, and had under their Consideration an Act for the taking away of the Excise and new Impost, and concerning Customs, Tonnage and Poundage after three years. Likewise they Vindicated the Peoples Liberties, by setting Overton and other Prisoners at liberty, imprisoned by Oliver, and declared against the illegality of sending men away to Foreign Plantations, out of the reach of the Writ of Habeas Corpus, whereby an English Subject could not have the benefit of the Law. And a strict Bill was pre∣paring against it, with an intent to have punish'd that cruel Jaylor Bark stead; also they had ordered an Im∣peachment to be drawn up against Butler, one of Crom∣well's Bashaw'••, for his many Insolencies put upon Magistrates, and for his breach of all Laws, and his most Tyrannical Actings, equal to any Turkish Bashaw. The Committee of Inspections also brought in the State of Accounts, Military and Civil; whereby it appeared, that the yearly incomes of England, Scotland and Ire∣land, were Eighteen hundred sixty five thousand seven hun∣dred and seventeen pounds: and that the yearly issues amounted to Two millions two hundred and one thousand five hundred and forty pounds: so that there was a yearly debt contracted upon the Kingdom of 301540 l. dou∣ble the Revenue that ever any King of England enjoy'd. Besides, to maintain the Conquest of Scotland more than its Revenue was expends 163619 l. These people acted fairly and squarely, and mought they have sat, would have done much good; they gave one another no Gratuities, nor Offices, nor granted any Money from the People, which was more than could have been said of any Parliament for a long time before them.

These Actings of theirs, and seeing the People be∣gan

to have them in esteem, caused now the Protector, as well as the Army, to grow jealous of them, as well as of one another, so that constant Guards were kept by Richard and the Army, for fear of one another; and though the House expected a Dissolution, they could not yet tell which way it would come, or which party to fear most: In the mean time they give or∣der, for the drawing up an Act of Indemnity to quiet peoples minds. But on the 22d of April, Fleetwood, Desborow, and other chief Officers, follow'd by a great part of the Army, repair to Richard at White-Hall, with a Commission ready drawn, and directed to Fien∣nes for Dissolving the Parliament, giving him several Reasons for their so doing, but for some time he ob∣stinately refuses, and was advised by some of his Con∣fidents to cause his Troops to be drawn up, and to ap∣pear in the head of them; but he was fearfull and irre∣solute, and the other party violent and insolent; for his Uncle Desborow told him, that unless he would con∣sent, they would doe it without him, and so by threats and importunities he signed the Commission for Dis∣solving this Parliament. This is sent to Fiennes, who twice sent the Black Rod to the Commons, who scorn'd the Message, and would not admit him; but hearing there were Guards of Horse and Foot drawn up in the Palace-yard, and that there was like to be a force put upon them, they adjourned themselves for three days, and the Speaker was attended by all the House to his Coach, through all the Soldiery. Upon this they cause the Proclamation, which they had ready for the Dis∣solving the Parliament, to be published, and declared them Dissolved: and thus Richard dethroned himself; and though Fleetwood and Desborow did not think to go so far, as utterly to deject him, not having yet agreed what Government to set up; yet after this was done, the more numerous, though inferiour Officers of the Army would not hear of a Protector any more, crying that vast allowance allotted for him, would go a great way in the maintenance of the Army, but resolve for

the present that Fleetwood should have the chief Com∣mand of the Army, and to dispose of all vacant Offices till further order, and till they could consider of a fit Model of Government. Thus Richard fairly is laid a∣side, and quietly marches off the Stage, not long after retiring into the Country, having a promise from them, that they would take care for the payment of his debts, which by reason of his Father's Funeral charge, were very great.

This was a kind of Interregnum, all was in confusion, and no man knew what to doe. The Parliament after three days repair to their House, but they find the doors lock'd, and guarded by Red-coats, and all the Avenues stopt with Soldiers, who denied them entrance, telling them Richard's business was at an end, as well as theirs, by whose power they sat: and thus ended this Parlia∣ment, who were not able to struggle with armed Power. Fleetwood and Desborow had their hands full, and they had, as they say, pull'd an old house upon their heads; for Lambert, tho at first he appeared for Fleetwood and his party, designed nothing less than the serving of them; and since he was not able, but by some other Authority to get into the Supreme Command of the Army, which he aimed at for a further advance of himself, by his party he caused the Rump Parliament to be proposed again, to a great Consultation of the Officers of the Army meeting at St. James's, where they were seeking God for a Government, with Dr. Owen and other Indepen∣dant Ministers amongst them, which affected them very much. But this alarum'd Fleetwood and his party, who found the Army mutinous and troublesome, and not to be governed now by their Commands, and the few days they reigned, the Government lying like an heavy bur∣then upon their shoulders, they were forced to comply, and follow the stream; and in order thereto, the Prote∣ctorian Colonels, as Ingoldsby, Howard, Falconbridg, Bridg, Whaly, Goff, Norton, Smith and others were put out, and Commonwealths-men or Rumpers put in their stead. And thus fully ended the Usurpation and Tyranny of the Cromwells.

And now we may say, we are come to the third Act of Tyranical Usurpation, and the many-Headed Monster the Rump-Parliament arises again and shews it self, after hav••ing been so many years defunct. For the souldiers, as I have said, not knowing what to do, send now for their old drudges to sit again, whom they had formerly pull'd out by the Ears, with so much Infamy and ill language, and after several private Conferences among the Chief of either side, and articles proposed for the securing the Armie (for the Rump would sit upon any terms) a declaration of the Armie came forth, invit••ing this Rump to return to the exercise of their charge, and trust: telling them, in many canting terms, of the dangers and deliverances God had brought them through, and perceiving now with Grief, that the good spirit among them did dayly decline, so as the good old cause became a reproach: and now calling to mind that the long Parlia∣ment, consisting of those members who continued siting till the 20 th. of April 1653. were eminent asserters of that cause, and had a special presence of God with them, and were signally blessed in their work, they iudged it their duty to invite the said Members to the discharge of their trust, for the setling and secureing the peace of the common wealth, promissing to be aiding and assisting to them, &c.

And now all the Members in Town, the Jailes being search'd for some of them, who lay there for debt, get together on the 7 th. of May in the Painted chamber at Westminster, accompanied with their old Speaker, Lenthal, to the number of about 42, who for haste haveing the Chancery Mace carried before them, stole into their house before expected; not a little glad to have gotten into their old nest, after so many years exclusion. The names of these famous men were, Lenthal, their Speaker, Lord Monson, Harry Martin, Lisle, Whitlock, Chaleuo••r, Wise Alder∣man Atkins, Penington, Scot, Holland, Vain, Prideaux, Sr. James Harrington, Ludlow, Oldsworth, Hazlerig, Jones, P••refoy, White, Harry Nevil, Say, Bennet, Blagrave, Brewster, Serjant Wild, Goodwin, Letchmore, Skinn••r, Downs, Dove▪ 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Leuthal,

Saloway the Grocer, Corbet, Wallon, Millington, the Church-snuffers, Gold, Sydenham, Bingham, Aire, Smith, one of the 6 clarks, Ingoldsby and Fleetwood. These Rumpers being thus reestablished, and addressed by sundry Addressers from the Counties, which afterwards stood them in as much stead, as those which were made before to Richard Cromwell did him; They cause the Officers of the Armie to resigne their old Commissions, and to receive new ones from them, which they thought no small tye; but Cal∣lerates met with Menalcidas, as afterwards it proved. Some of the old Members who had been secluded in 1648. re∣quired to be admitted with the rest, hopeing that their presence might prevent much mischeif, tho' they had little or no expectation of doing much good, by reason the Armies backing the other party. The names of the secluded Members that now sought for admittance were, Mr. Anslow, Sr. George Booth, Mr. James Herbert, Mr. Prynn, Mr. Montague, Sr. John Eveling, Mr. John Herbert, Mr. Gawen, Mr. Eveling, Mr. Clive, Mr. Kniqgtley, Mr. Hungerford, Mr. Harley, and Mr. Peck. But these could not be admitted into the house, but were stopped in the Lobby, onely Mr. Prynn and Hungerford getting in, and beginning to dispute with them upon the point made them adiourn and loose a days time: after which attempting the like, they found a Troop of Horse and two Companies of red-Coats, the Keepers of the liberties of England, to keep them out, so that they were forced to return, seing there was no good to be done with these persons, who began to follow their old stepts, of trampling the priviledges of Parliament under foot, the ancient Laws and Consti∣tutions of the land, and the Liberties and Rights of the people. For they forthwith ordered, That such persons here∣tofore Members of this Parliament, as have not sat in this Par∣l••ament since the year 1648, and have not subscribed the Engage∣ment, in the Rol of Engagement of this House, shall not sit in this House till further order of Parliament. They had the first day of their sitting put forth a Declaration, among many other things, declareing, They would apply themselves faithfully to the discharge of their trust, and to the setlement

the Common Wealth, as might establish the Property and Liber∣ties of the people, without a single person, Kingship, or House of Peers, and vigourously carry on a Reformation, that there may be a godly and faithful Magistracy and Ministry in the Nation, to the praise of our Lord Jesus Christ, and to the reviveing and makeing glad the Hearts of the upright in the Land. See the holy Cant, and what good words they use, having not forgot their old Trade of cutting the peoples Throats with good words; nor their old way of helping one ano∣ther: for on the 29th of May, they order, That all such as shall be employed in any place of Trust or Power in the Common∣wealth, be able for the discharge of such Trust, and that they be persons fearing God, and that have given Testimony to all the people of God, their faithfulness to this Common-wealth, according to the Declaration of the 7th of May. Here are the Godly now setting up themselves again, in their old Throne of the Good Old Cause, that had been so abomina∣bly distastful to the whole Nation. And forthwith this Godly Party, as they nominated themselves, begin apace to thrust one another into all Offices of the State, and for that end they appoint a Council of State, into whose hands they put the dispose of all places of most Profit and Trust; yea of the Command of the wealth of the King∣dom: These Godly ones of the House were, the Godly Sir Arthur Hazlerig, the pious Sir Henry Vain, the Holy Man Ludlo••, Jones, Sydenham, Salaway, Fleetwood and the Chaste, Mr. Scot, with Walton, Nevil, Harrington, Chaloner, Downs, Whitlock, Morley, Sydney, Thomson, Dixwel, Rey∣nolds, Oliver St. Johns, Wallop, and without the House were the like Godly Men, Bradshaw, Lambert, Desborow, Fairfax, Berry, Sir Anthony Ashly-Cooper, Sir Horatio Townsend, Sir Robert Honywood, Sir Archibald Johnson and Josiah Berners.

These, under the Mask of the Good Old-Cause, begin to ••urn afresh to their old Villanies, and to the enriching themselves, with the poor remainers of the spoyls of the ••eople. On the 12th of May, Lambert, accompanied with Desborow, Barksted, and 12 other Colonels of the Army, ••resent a Petition to the House from the Army, contain∣••••g their desires concerning the Government. That

the Government might be a free State and Common-Wealth, without a single Person, Kingship, or House of Peers. That there might be a due regulation of the Laws. That an Act of Oblivion might be passed. That the Laws and Ordinances made in the several changes of the Government, and not to repealed may be good in Law. That the publick Debts might be paid. That a Liberty of Conscience be granted to all, excepting Papists and Episcopists. That a godly Ministry be incouraged. That Universities and Schools of Learning be countenan∣ced, and Reformed. That all Royalists be discounte∣nanced and not suffered to have any place of Trust. That none may have places of Trust, but such as are eminent for Godliness, Constancy, and Faithfulness to the good Cause and Interest of the Nations. That a provision be made for Succession of Parliaments. That Fleetwood may be the Lieutenant-General of the Army. That the Legislative power may be in the Representatives of the People, consisting of an House successively chosen by the People. That the executive power may be in a Council of State, consisting of a certain number of qualified per∣sons. That the Debts contracted by his late Highness and his Father, might be paid; and that a Revenue of 10000 l. per Annum, might be setled upon the late Pro∣tector and his heirs for ever; and 10000 l. per Annum, more during his Life, and 8000 l. upon his honoura∣ble Mother during her Life, &c. This was the Armies project of Government, for which they receive the thanks of the House by their Speaker, and are told there are many weighty things contained in it, which they would take into their Consideration. And upon this, before they would make any settlement upon the late Protector, they send to him for an Acknowledgment of his submissi∣on to the Government, which he formally sent them in hopes of the Settlement, with a Schedule of his Debts▪ But they refuse to pay them, and delay making any Set∣tlement either on Him or his Mother, for they were a sort of Persons who never lov'd to give away money from themselves. Yet to please him, and to remove him fur∣ther

from them, they give him 2000 pounds to discharge some part of his Debts, and required that he and all his Dependences remove from Whitehall in six days. Fleet∣wood began to grow discontented at this slighting his Bro∣ther: but to please him, they Vote him to be the Com∣mander in Chief of all the Armies and Land-Forces in En∣gland, Scotland and Ireland, for one year; and, that he should have power to Sign Commissions, and nominate Officers under him, as should be approved by the Parli∣ament. But upon the second Reading of the Bill for this purpose, they altered their minds, and ordered all Com∣missions for the Land and Sea-Forces to be Signed by the Speaker, and delivered to the Officers Gratis. They also Order the Government of Ireland to be by Commissioners, and Henry Cromwel to be removed. 'Tis thought if he had stirred at that time, being much beloved by the Officers of his Army there, he might have disappointed this Par∣liament of any further proceedings, but being over per∣suaded, he quietly left his Authority. Scotland was yet a trouble to them, which they knew not how to get into their hands: for General Monk kept all things in so great Order and quietness there, and was so prudent in all his Actions, that they could not find fault with him, nor mis∣trust him, but believed him really their Friend.

They now begin to proceed vigorously, and cause the Protector's Seal to be broken, and confirm their own old one: of which Terryl, Fountain, and infamous Bradshaw are made Commissioners, very busie they are of preferring one another to places of proffit: and about the beginning of June, keeping close to their Good Old Cause of Gain, they ordered a Bill for publick Sales to be brought in. And now White-Hall, Somerset-House, Hampton-Court, and all that Cromwell had kept for himself, are ordered to be sold for ready money. And beginning with the Deer, they fall to selling them, by five or six Brace at a time. And that no Stone might be unturn'd, for the getting of money, they project to make all such persons, who had assumed Dignities or Titles of Honor, heretofore con∣ferred on them by the late King, taken away by Act of

Parliament, to pay the summs forfeited by the said Act. Then they offer at an Act for the makeing all honours conferred by Charles Stewart voyd and null. Then they fall to their old trade of raising monies by Assessments, and continue the Excise and Customs to the 1 st. of Octo∣ber. And that they may hook in all they can, they autho∣rize the collecting of an Assessment granted by the Par∣liament 1656 for 3 years, one year of which was yet behind and uncollected, this was 35000 l. a month on England, 6000 l. on Scotland, and 9000 l. a month on Ireland: thus they owned not the authority of that Parliament, yet they owned their mony Assessed by them, and put it into their own pockets. They next revive their Committee of plundring Ministers; and make an order for impressing of Seamen which they wanted. Then they make their speaker Custos Rotulorum of Oxford shire and Berks. Sir Hen Mildmay of Essex, and several other places to the cheif of their members; following their old voca∣tion of shareing all among themselves. The Government of Jersay to Coll. Mason; Cooper, Zanker, Sadler, and Lawrence have Regiments given them in Ireland. All things seem to submit to their power, and Fleetwood, Lambert, Desberow, and the rest, are forced to receive their Commissions from their General Mr Speaker, which tho' dissatisfied, dissemblingly they submit to.

It was very much admired that the Parliament should imagine, that the Armie would be true to them, or that any Oaths would hold them, when they had seen them so often break their former Allegiance to themselves, and to their late Protector: and on the other side, it was as much admired, that the Armie would thus trust this Par∣liament or Junto, they had so grosly abused: for they could not believe, that the Junto would not remember their doings, and so provide for their own security and establishment, as to ruine the Armie if they could. But out of all this evil God was now a forming good. For the Government of the Armie under the Speaker the Ge∣neral, they made 7 Commissioners, namely Lieutenant General Fleetwood, Sir Hen. Vaine, Sir Arthur Hazlerig;

Colonels Lambert, Desborow, Ludlow, and Berry. These were very active in their authority, placeing and dis∣placing many Officers in the Armie, by the Parliaments consent. All things seem succeed to very fortunatly to them, and Lockchart Governour of Dunkirk submits to them, to whom they send over Peirson, Ashfeild, and Packer, Colonels. To Ireland they send their Commis∣sioners Steelones, Thomljnson, and Goodwin, and for the command of the Armie Colonel Ludlow with the title of Lieutenant General. Embassadors from the United Provin∣ces come over to congratulate them, and to offer their amity, as also from many other places were coming; so that they now began to think themselvs sure. They had a mind to new model Monk's armie in Scotland and were provideing to doe it, which Monk had timely notice of by his Agents in London, which made him write to the Parliament, in which he told them, that he thought himself fit to be credited in the qualifications of his own Officers, whom he assured them, were honest and stout men, and for whose fidelity he would be ingaged. This letter troubled them, being the first rub they had met with, yet they hoped to get over it: for they were now more eagre to have creatures of their own stamp in that Armie, and think with good words to pacifie Monk, letting him know as to his own Regi∣ment, they would make no alteration. But Monk was not satisfied with this, but sent up some Officers to so∣licite at London in behalf of themselvs and the rest. Then the Junto made an Order, that such Officers as were in Ireland and Scotland, because they could not re∣ceive their Commissions of the Parliament, should re∣ceive them from the hand of certain Commissioners named for the civil Government of both Kingdoms. But those for Scotland were not yet named, and Monk still continued his old Officers.

In the mean time, Somerset House was exposed to sail, at the yearly value of 233 l. the gross value of mate∣rials at 5545. st. 1 s. 3 d. to he had not under 13 years purchace. And now, that they may seem Kind to poor

dick who began to fear an Arrest for the mourning took up for this fathers funeral, they give him a protection from all Arrests for 6 months, and take into conside∣ration how that debt might be paid without charge to themselves.

And now these Tyrants who held their fellow subjects in slavery had some inck'ling of a Cavalier-plot, which made them very jealous of every body; so that few could meet upon any occasion but they were disturbed and some of them clapt up, for Conspirators. In July they put out their Act of Indemnity; but none were to have the benefit of this mock Act, but such who being above 16 years of age subscribed an Engagement against a single Person, Kingship and House of Peers. And all Cavaliers as would not take it were to be banish'd out of England; and if afterwards seen there to be proceeded against as Traytors, and 10 l. reward to the discoverer of such person, or persons. And now the poor Royalists were in a worse condition than ever after all their losses, sequestrations, decimations, and plund'rings, they must either go against their consciences or leave the land.

The Harvest was great and the labourers few, and in August the weather being sultry hot, many of the Junto were retired into the Country; so that they could hardly make an House: upon which they make a strict Order that all (rotten) members attend the House, and that none depart without leave of the House. And now they order a Fast and day of Humiliation, and to shew that they were the same bloody m••n they were formerly, they pro∣clame, J. mordant Esq. with several others. Traytors, and order the Lady Howard, Sr E. Byron, and Mr. Sumner to be brought to a tryal for treasonable designs. They seize upon persons, horses, and armes throughout Lon∣don, increase and double their Guards, stop passengers, the Council of State sitting night and day, and all the Mi∣litia in the City, and throughout England were ordered to be drawn up for their security: for they were in a great consternation about a plot, and began to court the

people in their canting way, by their preachers, one of which said: The Lord stir up the Hearts of his people, and fill them with unanimity and courage at this evil time, against the com∣mon Enemie, Charles Stewart, and that desperate Crew of ra∣venous and unreasonable men, who, should they get in, to satisfie the rable of his followers would enslave you, and with your goods maintain forraigners, and the pomp and pride of a luxurious Court, and an absolute Tyranny.

And it was not without cause, that these persons were put into such afear, for there was a general riseing to have been thorowout England, of all parties against these Rumpers: for the Presbyterians, and discarded Protect••∣rians, began now to see their slavery, and to tack about, seing a necessity of joyning with the Royalists, and some of the greatest amongst them sue for the Kings pardon, and obtain it, and hereupon they cement with the Ca∣valiers, and the famous plot, or St. George Booth's riseing was then formed; the King lying privatly at Calais ready to have come over on the first geting together of any con∣siderable body: But the design was too Early preven∣ted, by being some way discovered to Sc••t, and some others, and by an intercepted letter of the Lady Mary Howards, who was clapt up with others about it; M••ssy is taken in Gloucester shire, but being carried behind a Trooper, by a party of Horse in the night, he took his time, and with a sudden jerk flung the trooper before him, and himself into a precipice, whereby he escaped; being better acquainted with the ways than they were The Rumpers had got some knowledg of the design, and with their diligence had prevented it in many Counties. Yet Sir George Booth rose in Chesheir, with a considerable partie with Sir Tho. Middleton, Ma or General Randulph, Egerton, and others, they surprise Chester, Liverpool, Chi••k, Castle, and some other places, declaring only for a free Parliament: so that they had gotten together about 3000 men, but few well armed: presently the Rump proclame them Rebells, and Traytors: and Lambert comes against them with 3 Regim••nts of Horse, as many of Fort, and one of Dragoons, besides a Train of Artillery. Some of

these should have joined Sir George Booth, had they seen that they had been in a capacity of doing any good, and of proceeding unanimously in their design; but in stead thereof there fel out unseasonable contests, be∣tween the old and the new Cavaliers, and the private ani∣mosities of the Gentry hind'red much: every one that brought but 30 men would be a Captain, or take it very ill, so that by their unseasonable punctillio's, the publique int'rest received damage: and besides, it was no small daunting to them, finding that the design of Riseing was quasht in all other Counties, nor could they reduce the Castle of Chester, which Colonel Croxton held out against them. But so soon as Lambert came up with his forces, the raw men, that made up the body of the force of Sir George Booth being also ill armed, were soon defea∣ted at Northwich, August 19, Captain Edward Morgan was slain upon the place; Egert••n fled, but was pursued and taken; Sir Tho Middleton got over sea: Sir George Booth escaped as far as Newport Pannell; where he was taken in disguise, and soon after committed close pris'ner to the Tower of London, for committing Treason in learying war against the common Wealth; and Sir Hen. Vane and Sir Arth. Hazlerig sent to him to take his examination. Lam∣bert retakes all places that they had taken in, and by an order of Parliament disarmes the Counties; They send him 1000 pounds, for a gratuity, which he, having other aims, distributes among his souldiers. Then they give order for a day of Tanks giving, for their suceess-and presently prepare a new Oath of Abjuration; not thinking the Engagement sufficient, to be inforced upon the nation; wherein they are to abjure the whole line of King James, and tell the people they will now set themselvs to doe something extraordinary towards the setlement of the Government. But Mony, the Diana of the Ephesians, and the Idol of the filthy Rumpers, is that they want; and therefore now impose a new tax upon the people of 200000 pounds a month, confirm the Excise, fine those that failed to supply their anew molded Militia with 〈…〉〈…〉 under color of a sanctimonious

care of the poor, they make an inspection into the r••∣venue of all Hospitals, prohibiting the Masters and Go∣vernors of them to renew any Leases. General Monk upon the riseing of Sir George Booth, was in a readyness to have marched, but was provented by their being so suddenly suppressed; the Rump had some jealousie of it, but he had caried his design so closely, and discovered it to so few, that nothing could be made appear against him. He was not a little troubled at these disasters, and finding the Junto busie in displaceing those he most trusted at Col. Daniel; Governor of St. Johnstong, and many others fearing he should at last be outed by them of his com∣mand, and hopeless of doing good as he intended, he sends up a letter to the Parliament for a dismission from his command. This letter was, by his friends in London who had intimation thereof, suppressed, for some time, and his friends in the House so ordered it, that when it was delivered to the Speaker, the reading of it was deferred for ten days, till a packet came from Scotland to contra∣dict it: tho' Vaine and others who hand an incling of it, called often to have this letter read, which they suspec∣ted. But the Speaker being persuaded to it by his friends, under the color, that if it were read, and that they should take him at his word, it would cause a general defection in the Scotch armie, among whom the famous Monk was so wel beloved, and might ruine their affairs, he being also true to their interests, tho' discontented at the displaceing his Officers: This prevailed with the Speaker, wholy to suppress that Letter, and so the buisness passed over, the Junto being extream busie about many matters,

In the mean time Lambert and his Armie being aflote, upon their late success, are provideing other employ∣ment for the Rumpers. Quos Deus perdeie vult, de••ent▪ The whole Nation had long wish'd for the ruine of ••ot•• and now their own dissentions will make way for it Lambert, whom Cromwell had laid aside for his ambition had his heart still full of the same. He keeps a mo••k Fa•••• with his Officers, an infallible token that some gran••

design was hatching, he had still a mind to the Protector∣ship, and in reference to that he and his complices re∣monstrate the necessity of the Armies being g••verned by general Officers, as it was before the Speaker had made himself General; and requested or petitioned that Fleet∣wood (whom Lambert doubted not to serve as Cromwell had done, Fairfax) might be made Lord General, and that himself might be Leiutenant General, and Desberow Ma∣jor General of the Horse, and Monk Major General of the Foot, till he might have a good opportunity of laying him a side. This Remonstrance being drawn up into form, and signed, was sent up to London to the ge∣neral Councel of Officers, whether Lambert was privatly gon, and by some of them the Junto came to hear of it, who were startl'd at it, how ever they dissemble with the Officers, and order, Ashfeild, Cobbet, and Duckenfeild to attend the House, with the petition, which they did: After the reading of which they adjourned till next mor∣ning, when, assumeing the debate, they vote. That to have any mere Generall Officers in the Armie than are already setled by the Parliament, is needless, chargeable, and dan∣gerous to the Common Wealth, and that Fleetwood should acquaint them with this Resolve. This was ill ressented by the Armie, and tho' for the present they seemed to ac∣••uiesce, (because their design was not fully ripe) and helped the Junto, in a friendly manner, to devour a Thanksgiving dinner, at the Cittys cost and charges, which was then govern'd by Ireton and Tichbourn, and their gang; yet it was not long before they presented a new Address to the same purpose, on the 5 th. of October, by Desborow and many Officers attending him. To this the Rumpers very gravely answer, checking them for not submitting to their judgment formerly declared 〈◊〉〈◊〉 ••hat case; but knowing that the armie Officers would not be so satisfied, and expecting no less than another interruption they passed an Act against raising of monys on the people without their consent in Parlia∣ment, declareing all such persons as should assess, levie, collect, gather, or receive, contrary to this Act, to be

guilty of high treason, and withall vacateing and dis∣annulling all Orders, Ordinances, and Acts, made by any pretended authority, since Oliver turn'd them out of doors in 1653, unless allowed and confirmed by them. And now having given such a killing blow to the souldiery, and made the breach irreconcileable, they-voted that the Commissions of Lambert, Desborow, Berry, Kelsey, Ashfeild, Cobbet, Pucker, Barrow, and Creed (all Colonels excepting the last who was a Major) to be voyd; and constitute 7 Commissionners to govern the Armie, Viz. Lieutenant General, Charles Fleetword, Lieute∣nant General Edmond Ludlow, General George Monk, Sir Arthur Hazelrig: Col. Val. Walton; Col. Herbert Mor∣ley, and Col. Rob. Overton, any 3 or more of them to of the Quorum. They were incouraged to this by a pri∣vat message they had received from General Monk, (who had constant intelligence of all that hap'ned, and of which he wisely made his advantages) which was, that if the Parliament would be resolute in asserting their own authority against the Armie, he would assist them in it, and if required thereto he would march into England in their defence. This made them very brisk, and now beleiving there might be some oppo∣sition made by the Armie, they cause Morly's and Mossel's Regiments to be drawn up into the Palace yard, for a Guard to the Parliament. It was now high time for Lambert to look about him, and not being idle, thought it best to play his part while he had power: and therefore he, on the 13 of October with the other discharged Officers, drew a part of the Armie into Kings street, and possess themselvs of all the avenues to the House, and the Speaker Lenthal going thither at his usual time in his coach, was stop'd, and after some expostulations, was forced to return. And thus their sitting was prevented. Both parties of the souldiers kept their stations most part of the day, and every minute it was expected they would have engaged, whilst the amazed inhabitants dreaded the issue. But Lambert having effected what he intended, procured an Order

from the Council of State, then sitting at Whitehall, for all to draw off to their quarters, which was accor∣dingly done, and so this periculous adventure, of a second time unnesting these Rumpers was finished.

Thus you see, some more bold touches of Arbitrari∣ness, Usurpation, and Tyranny in this second, though short, Reign of these Rumpers, who sate only from the 7th of May to the 13th of October: in which time they discovered themselves to be the same Covetous and Ra∣pacious Tyrants they were before in all their Actions, and had they time, would have appeared to have been as bloody; for they were preparing to bring the late Delinquents, as they called those ingaged in Sir George Booths Rising, to a Tryal, and they had got Lists of most of the persons, Nobility, and Gentry throughout England, that were engaged in it, whose Estates were to be con∣fiscated and sold, and out of whose Esta••es they pro∣mised to satisfie the Soldiers, and to gratifie themselves, which was always the chief thing aimed at, but being thus interrupted as you have heard, they, in haste, march∣ed off the Stage.

And now again the Kingdom is without any kind of Civil-Government, for the Usurpation was divolved on a few O••ficers, who whilst they Reigned, Ruled by the boundless Arbitrary Power of the Sword; which confu∣sed Authority, that lasted not long, we may call the fourth Act of this our Tragical Usurpation upon the free-born Englishmen; Yet still under the notion of Liberty.

The next day after the turning forth of the Rumpers, divers of the Chief Officers of the Army meet at White∣Hall, where the Soldiers soon grow Friends, only Col∣lonel Morley was turned out of Commission for standing, so stifly against the Walling fordians: and now for the ma∣nagement of the Government, and the Affairs of the Common-wealth, reduced to an Anarchy, they chose ten persons, till further Order, which were Fleetwood, Lam∣bert, Desborow, Whitlock, Sir Henry Vain, Sir James Ha∣rington, Major Salway, Berry, Sydenham and Archibald John∣ston a Scotchman, known commonly by the Title of the

Laird Warriston. The Officers now Lords Parramount, meet the same day at Wallingford-House, where they give to themselves what they could not obtain from the Juncto by their Addresses, a General to their own mind, Fleet∣wood, whom they nominate Commander in Chief, and Or∣der Lambert to be next, and Desborow Commissary Gene∣ral of the Horse, and that all the other Officers in the Army should be constituted by Sir Henry Vain, Fleetwood, Desborow, Ludlow, and Berry, and took care for the drawing up Articles of War, for the good Government and Discipline of the Army. Barrow they dispatch into Ireland, with Reasons for what they had done, and Cob∣bet on the like Errand was sent to Scotland, where he was committed to Custody. For noble General Monk, whose Study to repare his Countries Breaches, was as great as Lambert's to oppress it, only waited for a fit opportunity, and judged this to be a most convenient time to bestir himself, in so honourable a Cause, and whom the Offi∣cers of the Army in England had neglected to put into their Council of State, believing he would, as he had hitherto, still submit to the Change of the Government; and by his stopping of the Packets they had not heard as yet, how he had forbid the getting of Subscriptions in his Army, as they had done in England and Ireland. Though his Design then was the bringing in the King, and the restoring the three oppressed and enslaved Nati∣ons, from the Arbitrary Rule, of Tyrannical Usurpers, of the scum of the people; and also from the power of the Sword and Arbitrary Sway of the Army; yet he was ve∣ry close in all his Carriage, and few were acquainted with the thoughts of his Heart: but taking this opportu∣nity to oppose the strongest Power, the Army, he seems averse to their doings, and appears wholly concerned for the Rump, or Parliament so called; and therefore that their Emissary might not corrupt or do any hurt among his Soldiers, he secures him, and by Letters signifies his dislike of the Armies proceedings in England; tells them of their violation of Faith to the Parliament, and de∣clared his Resolution of endeavouring to restore them to

their Powers; this arrived to them on the 28th of Octo∣ber in the Evening, which put them to much Confusion. Fleetwood, Desborow, and Lambert meet about it, and about midnight send for Clarges, to expostulate with him about it, who was wary, and could say little to it; however they order him with one Col. Talbot to repare presently to Monk, that they might prevail with him for a Treaty, to prevent effusion of blood, of which Clarges was glad, being desirous to get out of their power fearing a worse treatment.

In the mean time, the Council of Officers meet at Whitehall, in order to Setlement as they called it, and of frameing a Government, that should be lasting and against all attempts whatsoever: but having found most of the Gentry of England, to be one way or other involved for the King's Int'rest, they were pro∣jecting to seize all their Estates, and to divide them among their own Party, and so to put the riches of the nation into the hands of persons irreconcileable to Monarchy; and then to have set up Harrington's model of a Common Wealth, or ruled themselvs by the sword, or thought of some other way, they knew not what: This advise if followed, had been very fatal, and might have laid such a foundation of slavery, never to have been subverted. But God had otherwise de∣signed: on the 16 of the same month October, the Wallingf••rdians choose a Committee of Safety as they termed it, consisting of 23 persons, who were Fleet∣wood, Lambert, Desborow, Whitlock, lately made keeper of their great Seal, Steel Chanceller of Ireland; Sir Hen. Vain, Ludlow, Sydenham, Salaway, Strickland, Berry, Lawrence, Sir Jo. Harrington, the Laird Warreston, Al∣derman Ireton, Fichbourn, Col. Hewson, Cleark, Bennet, Lilburn, Thomson, Cornelius Holland, and Henry Bran∣driff. These, without any President, in any Age or History, were impowred, by the armie Officers, to call Delinquents to account, and to bring them to Justice, to give Indemnity to all that had acted for the Common Wealth, since the year 1649. to oppose

and suppress all Insurrections, to treat with forreign States and Princes. To raise the Militia in the several Counties, to dispose of all places of Trust, and to make Sales and Compositions of all Delinquents Lands, and to execute all the powers of the late Council of State; that is, to do what they please. Surely never any free Nation was so abused and imposed upon by a company of false pretenders to Sanctity?

The news of General Monks actions in the North, allarm'd them, at their first siting, for he had casheir∣ed all those Officers in his Armie; who would not joyn with him, and imprisoned some of them; and, had seized Berwick, and several others strong Holds, and was likely to march into England, which put them to their wits ends, knowing how highly the people were incensed against them; and about the same time, as a presage of their dying power, Brad, shaw who had passed the trayterous Sentence upon the King, departed this life, the last day of this month, to receive sentence himself from the King of Kings. However this Committee with a new name, put forth a Declaration, in with they null and make voyd the pretended Orders, Acts, and Declarations of the late Junto, made on the 10th. of that instant October, and on the Teusday and Wensday following; and likewise all Acts, Orders, and Proceedings thereupon, in as full and ample manner, as if they had never been: See now what may not these people do, when they can null and make void the Acts of that power themselvs ado∣red, set up and submitted to, not long before cal∣ling them Saints, Godly, Upright, and Religious men, persons fearing God, and seeking the good of the Na∣tion, yet now vacate their Acts, that were displeasing to them, or restrained their power. Yet the same men declare a liberty to all the freeborn men of the Nation, whom they had thus enslaved, and with the next breath promise to maintain a painfull Gospel-preaching Mi∣nistry, to be incouraged by some other way, less trou∣blesome than that of Tithes. Then they declare

against a single person, Kingship, and House of Peers, and that the Common Wealth shall not be governed in a Military way, but by the Civil Government of the Committee of Safety, who shal prepare such a Form of Government as shall best suit with a free State, or Common Wealth: then end with a long cant of godly and scriptural expressions, of their sincerity and uprightness, to Cajole the godly Party, and to make them think well of their Saint like Actions.

This done, in order to Government, in the begining of November, the Safety men nominate Fleetwood, Lambert, Vane, Ludlow, Desborow, Hewson, Holland, Salaway, and Tichburn to be a Committee, to prepare a form of Governenmt, in the way of a free State, or Common Wealth; and Whaly, Goff, Carill, and Barker, are dispatched to General Monk to seduce him to joyn with them, and to do as they intended, to tyrannize over a free born people; and arbitrarily to murder them for the avoiding of effusion of blood; and the Officers at London wrote to his Offi∣cers to the same purpose, remonstrateing with much zeal, how necessary brotherly Union was to uphold their Do∣mination. General Monk, who had good Intelligence from England, seeing the Northern forces were in a posture to resist him, and Lambert comeing down to them with more Regiments out of the South, thought it his best way to win time by procrastinations, and therefore de∣sires a Treaty, which was readily accepted of by those in England, and upon this he sends up, as Commis∣sioners, Col. Wilks, Leiut. Col. Clobery, and Major Knight, to tranfact with the like number of Officers at London. These had power only to treat, but not to come to full agreement without orders, but they exceeded their Com∣mission. By the way meeting Lambert at York, they gave him so full satisfaction in hopes of concluding all things amicably, by this Treaty, that he advanced no farther northwards. The Commissioners on both sides meet at London, and Wilks not following his directions, went beyond his, Commission, and being overforward to end the Treaty, concluded upon certain Articles very

distructive to Monks designs. They were breifly these. 1. That the pretended title of Charles Stewart, or any other clameing from that family should be utterly re∣nounced. 2. That the Government of these Nations should be a free State or Common Wealth, and not be a single Person, King, of House of Lords. 3. That the Mi∣nistry should be mainteined and encouraged. 4. That the Universities should be reformed and countenanced, 5. That the Officers and souldiers, and other persons, on either side, should be indemnified for things past, and all unkindness between them buried in perpetual oblivion. 6. That the Officers which were made pris'∣ners in Scotland, should be forthwith set at liberty. 7. That the Armies be presently dispersed into quarters, 9. And a Committee of 19, whereof to make the Quorum, should meet about qualifications for suceeding Parliaments. 9. That the proportion of mony out of the Assessments of England, formerly appointed for the supply of the forces in Scotland, be duly paid. The ratification of which Articles by Monk's Commissioners, strangely amazed the City, who had had private assu∣rances from the General of other things, and made them not to believe some later letters sent them, to continue their Hopes, but flung them away at fictitions, and caused the messenger to be imprisoned. Monk was also as much perplex'd when he had the news of it, and when his Commissioners returned imprisoned Wilks, for going beyond his Commission, and by advice from his Officers demurred to one clause in the 6 Article, which was, That all the Officers displaced by General Monk, might be in a capacity of being restored to their com∣mands, and all those put in by him, in their places, to be removed; by which means he should ruine and disarm himself. And therefore The treaty was not wholy disaprov'd of, but wisely Monk desired, that two more might be added to the former Commissioners, to meet with the like number of theirs, to put a more absolute period to their differences; for that there were certain poynts to be treated on not yet agreed to, and others

wanted explanation. This letter subscribed by Monk, and many of his Chief Officers, and sent to London, put Fleetwood, Lambert, and the rest to much confusion; seing Monk thus refuse to ratifie the Treaty: and there∣upon many expostulatory Letters passed between them, which gained time, the thing Monk intended: he having sent letters and messengers into Ireland, from whom he had favourable returns, which encouraged him to proceed. And this also put new life into the City, who now began to revive their Hopes. He also had privatly letters from the Lord Fairsax, and other persons of quality in England, of their resolutions of standing by him; tho' upon all this, he still kept himself reserv'd, and very few knew his inten••ions, which made many of his friends very doubtfull of him: but by this artifice and closeness he effected his business, and got into the opinion of the Rumpers, whose quarrel only he seemed to espouse: And being thus encouraged by his actions, nine of the old Council of State get privatly together, viz: Scot, Morley, Reignalds, Wol∣lop, Nevill, Hazlerig, Walton, Cooper, and Berners, who send a letter to Monk, assuring him, that his ser∣vice was highly acknowledged by them, in asserting their Liberties, and also was extreamly well resented by all the sober and uninterested persons in the nation, that love a Common Wealth; assureing him they would adhere to him, and stand and fall with him, and that they would assist him with all their might, for the re∣moveing of the force was put upon them by the English Armie, thIt they might sit in freedom; praiseing his wisdom and conduct, and the like. This was no small incouragement to the Officers in Scotland, for they might rationally conclude, that their party was increased in England, or else that they would not have so openly acted. This before-mentioned Council of State, framed a Commission, wherein they constituted General Monk absolute Commander in Cheif of the Armies in England and Scotland, dated 24 of November sealed with their seal, and given to Clarges to send by a safe messen∣ger to Monk.

And now General Monk, upon Lamberts advance into Northumberland, ordered a considerable part of his forces towards Berwick: and then caused an Assembly of the Nobles and Gentry, to convene at Edenburg to whom he made these proposals. That he having a call from God and man, to march into England they would therefore, during his absence, preserve and secure the peace of that Nation. That they would supply him with some mony for his undertakeing, which he enga∣ged upon his honor should be to their satisfaction; and that if any troubles should arise, they would assist him in the suppressing thereof. That they would ad∣vance, and raise what mony they could for his entre∣prise before hand. To these they returned answer by their chair-man, the Earl of Glencarn; that they were not in a condition to engage for preserving the peace of the Country in his absence; because they wanted Ar∣mes: Yet they would endeavour it with all faithfullness: That they thought it not prudent to engage themselves in a war, which if unsuccessfull would be their ruin, or if prosperous they knew not what advantage should thereby accrew to them. But to shew their good opi∣nion of his fair intendment, they were content to levy monies, and to advance a year's Tax before-hand. Hereupon the General impowred the Lords and Gentry to arme themselves; and some of them he privately satis∣fied with his design, and thankfully accepted the year's Tax. But yet to win time, he holds a second Treaty with Lambert's Commissioners at Newcastle upon Tine; where he still insisted with a seeming zealousness, upon the readmission of the Rumpers: And this produced its wished effects. For whilst Lambert trifles away his time unprofitably, Monk posts himself at Cold-stream, a no∣table pass upon the Tweed, where he kept his head Quar∣ters, and being winter, where Lambert could not, without danger, come to disturb him. And on the other side Hazlerig, Morly and Walton get into Portsmouth, where they prevail with the Governour Col. Nathaniel Whe∣tham, and the Garison, with the Town, to declare for

he Junto, against the Safety men and Armie Officers, and no Contribution could be gotten from the Country; who armed themselvs with the late Act of the Rumpers before their exclusion by Lambert; and the Counties every where bodly meet to draw Remonstrances; but especially the City was so highly incensed, that the Lord Mayor, Allen, was hardly able to restrain them from flying to armes; which so perplexed him that not knowing whom to please, and fearing bad effects if he should displease either, he went to Wallingford House to represent the postures of affairs to the Gang, to try if he could per∣suade them to reason: But he was affronted all along as he past in his coach, in the streets; by the Common peo∣ple, who called him a deserter, and told him he was not like Sir William Walworth in the time of King Richard the second; which was a notable evidence of the incli∣nation of the Generality.

In the mean time, that we may see and be astonished at the impudence of these men, or monsters, called the Safety men: they had ordered a Committee (whom we nominated before) as mad as themselves, to sit at White-Hall, to find out a new Government; whose wits being not so accute as their swords were quickly confounded in the building of thir Babel. Sometimes they would have a Senate, and another time they were for Cons••rva∣tors, which should be much like the Rumping Custodes, to keep the Liberties from the people: But at last to please the Nation, this Mounthain brought forth its Mouse; a Vote viz: That a (convention which they stiled a) Par∣liament qualified according to their humors, and elected by persons so qualified, should be called and ap∣poynted to sit in, or before February next. But in the first place 7 fundamental principles are agreed upon, by the Wal••ingssordians, which must needs be as unalterable as the Laws of the Medes and Persians. These are, 1 That no Kingship shall be exercised in these Nations 2 That no single Person shall exercise the Office of Cheif Ma∣gistrate here. 3, That an Armie be continued, maintain∣ed, and conducted, so as it may secure (that is impri∣son)

the peace of these Nations, and by no means be disbanded, nor the conduct thereof altered, but by the consent of such Conservators as should be appoynted. 4, That no imposition may be upon the consciences of any but the Cavaliers, 5, That there be no House of Peers. 6, That the legislative and executive power be distinct, and not in the same hands. 7, That the Assem∣blies of Parliament shall be elected by the people of this Common Wealth duly qualified.

But these Gimcraks would not satisfie at all. But the Treaty still being in hand, they were lulled into a secu∣rity, and began, after the old manner of the Rumpers, to share among themselvs the Cheifest Offices and places of Trust and proffit; and to his end Fleetwood, Desborow, Sydenham, Saloway, Holland, Clerk, and Blakwell, or any two of them are appointed Commissioners of the Treasu∣rie, and to manage the publique revenue, with power as large as they could wish or desire. But being distur∣bed with the peoples drawing up of several Petitions, and getting Subscriptions, issue forth a Proclamation against all such petitioning, and call their petitions un∣due and dangerous papers, and prohibit all persons to subscribe any such papers, and if offered to suppress them, and to cause all persons so endeavouring to get subscriptions to be apprehended, upon account of being enemies and disturbers of the peace. Thus you see, these very men, who had set examples of this nature so frequently by geting Subscriptions to Petitions and Re∣monstrances, to the Autority then in Being, could not endure it, now it twarted their humors and interest; and what in themselvs they indulg'd and pleaded for, as their right, they will abhor and will punish in others. Mind therefore the Justice of these men.

But this Prohibition of theirs did but the more enrage the people, and the Londoners, especially the Apprentices, were in an uproar, and readye to mutine; whereupon He∣wosn the one ey'd cobler, hath order with his Regiment of foot, and some horse to march into the City: where he ••••lld a Cobler, and one or two more, and wounded se∣veral,

so that the Citizens shut up their shops; yet rather madded than daunted thereat, there were conti∣nuall bickerings between them and the souldiers; neither could Desborows, canting speech at Guild-Hall work upon them, but that sometimes multitudes would flock toge∣ther and affront the souldiers, and tho' they were often dispersed yet they would gather head again. And now the Common-Council, in which at that time were many stout and honest men, began to give ear to the Apprentices petitioning for a free Parliament; being thereunto encouraged by an offer of 3000 valiant Sea∣men to aid them, from Vice Admiral Lawson; who in this juncture was come up the Thames, and had surprized all the Forts and Blockhouses in the way: Vaine and Salmon were sent to confer with him, but nothing would prevail with him, unless the Wallingfordians would readmit the Rumpers to sit again.

And besides all this, Hazelrig, Morley, and Walton, at Portsmouth, had so wrought upon those Regiments which were sent against them, that they all came over to their side. The Safety men and Officers at White-Hall perceiving themselvs to be generally hated and slighted, and want∣ing mony to pay their souldiers and uphold their inter∣est, being withall beset on every hand with enemies; both City and Country being ready to rise upon them, found a necessity of submiting to the Rumpers, for fear, lest while the two Currs strove for the bone of Gover∣ment, the Royal Lyon should come in and destroy them both; they finding the pulse of the whole nation (tyred with the various fits of arbitrary sway) beating towards the return of the King, and to their old and equal way of Government; and the late reconciliation between France and Spain (in which his Majesty was very instrumental) seeming to presage some danger to them; the Cheif of them then go to the Speaker Lenthal, and cry peccavimus; where tender-hearted Fleetwood meekly weeping, gave a full testimony of his sorrow for his rei∣terated defection, saying: That the Lord had blasted their Councells and spit in their Faces ('tis his own rhetoric) and

therefore desires, him and the rest of the members, to return to the exercise of their Trust, for the Government of the Nation. And the same day the souldiery being drawn up in Lincolns-Inn-feilds owned the Junto again for the supream authority, now they saw thy could keep it no longer themselves. The Speaker went presently to the Tower of London, the care of which & Government whereof, he committed to Sir Antony Ashly-Cooper, Mr. Weaver, and Mr. Berners, and two dayes after, being the 26th. of December, this never dying Rump resumed their old places; and thus ended the Government of the Ar∣mie, which lasted only from the 13th. of October to the 26th. of December following.

And now, almost tyred with relateing, tho breifly, the several sorts of Arbitrary and tyranical usurpations, we are come to the last Act of our Tragedy or Trage-comedy since it ends happily, and after the tryall of so many ways of Government, almost to the ruin of the Nation, they return to the good old way of Monarchy; as the onely just, equal, and legal way of Government for these Nations, and for the ease and free-dom of the people But let us pursue our story, and see the last struggle & gasp for life of this Monster, or Dragon, of a Common Wealth ruleing by their Arbitrary wills, back'd by the power of the sword, of a standing Armie, who like the Turks Janizarie Keept both the people and their Masters in awe; tho hey knew the one, was not able to stand the other.

Soon after this revived Junto, to their great joy, had met, Hazelrig, Morley, and Walton, came to their Com∣panions, being attended from Portsmouth by those forces, that were led by Desborow to reduce them; who being then deserted by them, hasted back to London, and from thence to St. Albans; whence he wrote an humble letter to his restored Masters, craveing pardon, and telling them, that he had procured his own Regiment, which was at that time quarter'd there, to return to their Obe∣dience. From S. Albans, Desborow went into Yorksheir to Lambert, who was now in a declineing condition.

General Monk finding things goe to his mind in England

now broke of the treaty he had yet continued at York, and had planted his armie very advantageously along the River Tweed, on the Scotch side, in such a prudent manner, that in a few hours he could have all his Forces together; and lay so well posted, that the enemie could not make their way to him without extraordinary disadvantage: and if Lambert should have attempted to have got to him by the way of Carlile, he would by that means have gained several days march before him towards London; being also well assured, the Country would come in a pace to him. Lambert was about 13000 strong, and far superior to General Monk (in numbers) especially in Horse; which made that famous and ex∣perienced commander decline engageing.

The Rumpers, as soon as got together, order Popham, Thomson, Scot, Okey, Ashly-Cooper, Alured, and Markham, or any 3 of them to be Commissioners to Order, Direct, and Conduct the forces of the armie; these write to Lam∣bert to disperse his forces, but they were doeing that themselvs before, and the Irish Brigade that came over to his assistance under Redman and Bret submitted to the Junto; a pardon being sent to Lambert, and for all others that should submit to them by the 9 th. of the same month: by the example of the Irish Regiments, di∣vers other Regiments also forsook Lambert, who headed by the Lords Fairfax and Faulconbridg lately came to them, seized York, for the Junto. Lambert upon this marches from the borders Southward, his souldiers for∣sakeing him so fast, that by such time as he came to North-Allerton, he had not above 50 Horse remaining, where upon both he and they concluded to lay hold on the offer of pardon, and so dispersed, which being done, those at York likwise departed to their respective Quarters. Windsor castle also was surrendred to them by the means of Col. Ingolds••y: all things thus pros∣pering, they fall upon the Oath of Abjuration or Renun∣ciation of the whole line of King James, which they had been hammering at before, but now nominateing a Concil of State, they order that none of them should

Act, till they had taken this oath, which was now for∣med more strict than ever; and it was also proposed, that all the members of the House should take it: but this was strongly opposed by many, for that secretly divers of them had sought their pardons of the King, and seeing that he would inevitably come in the wisest & least obnoxions of them, endeavoured to save themselvs, and to be instrumental in his Majesties Restauration, among whom were Sir Anthony Ashly Cooper, St John, Ingoldsly, Morley, and others: But the Oath was this: I doe here∣by swear, That I doe renounce the pretended title of Charles Stewart, and the whole line of King James, and of every other person, as a single person, pretending or which shall pretend to the Crown or Government of these nations of England, Scotland, and Ireland or any of them, and the dominious and territories belonging to them or any of them. And that I will by the grace and assistance of almighty God, be true, faithfull, and constant to the Parliament and Common Wealth, and will oppose the bringing in or setting up any single person, or House of Lords and every of them in this Common Wealth.

A third part at least of their Council of State refused this Oath, saying it was a snare and a confining of Providence, and so were not permitted to sit.

The secluded Members, would not yet give over their Right of sitting, and tho they knew and had declared, that the Parliament was legally dissolved by the Death of the late King, yet they, upon the resitting of the Rumpers, require admission, whereupon it was again resolved that they did stand duely discharged from their sitting as members of that Parliament, and that writs should be im∣mediatly iss••ed out, for the electing of new members in their places. Thus they are still provideing to perpetuate them∣selves. And then falling to their old trade of divideing the spoyle, and to let them see how much they were offended, they order the Estates of Sr Georg Booth (a secluded member) and all his adherents to be forthwith sould.

General Monk who kept a correspondence in Ireland, received the news that his friends had surprized Dublin,

Castle, and that most of all Ireland had declared for him, and the Parliament to sit again, but he was surprized at the actual siting again of the Rump, having other de∣signs in his head, than their restauration, and there∣fore thinks it now high time to march, tho' in the midst of winter, and great snow: yet on the 2 of January he begins to set forward, resolving for London. In the mean time the Junto knowing that both City and Coun∣try were highly exasperated, who would not be satisfied with any thing, but the restor••ing the old members, or a free Parliament, and having also had experience of the Armies stubbornness, and aptness to mutiny, therefore to provide for their own Safety, which was very dear to them, they make Morley Lieutenant of the Tower, and ordered a letter of thanks to be sent to Gene∣ral Monk: which was accordingly done, and which the General received being upon this march, and cau∣sed it to be read to his souldiers at the head of their Regiments, whilst they stood up to the knees in snow. This letter was but cold comfort, and they feared lest it should have hind'red their march; for the souldiers lon∣g'd to be at London, and the Messenger told Monk, that Lambert's forces were dispers'd, and all things quiet, yet the General would not understand him, but continued his march Southwards, for he said he would see them setled, and take care no more force should be put upon them and by a messenger of his own, sent them a letter, much to the same purpose, with a return of thanks for the honour they did him, and of professions of fidelity to them; and that they being in an unsetled condition, he thought it best to see them setled, &c. with several other things, which he recommended to them, both as to the soulderie, and the people. The General had left Major General Morgan behind in Scotland, with sufficient force to keep that nation in quiet, who were now in great expectation of the issue of Monks march into England. All the way as he march'd he was highly caressed by the Gentry, and addressed by the Counties for a free Parliament, to whom he was

very reserv'd tho' civil, so that many scruples and doubts a rose concerning him some suspecting him a Royalist, others a Rumper, and others believing he in∣tended to set up himself in Olivers place. The Citty like∣wise sent their Swordbearer to complement him, and to offer him their service, and then by 3 Commis∣sioners requesting the same thing, the readmission of the secluded members, without any previous Oath, or a free Parliament, either of which they knew would bring in the King, tho' they durst not yet speak out. Monk observ'd all, and tho' inwardly glad, he knew one er∣ror might spoyle all, therefore he still kept his mind to himself, and answer'd them, that he would see the Parliament freed from all force, and the House filled, and good provision made for future Parliaments But the Rumpers, who had also received the like declarations from the Country, doubting what those caresses might pro∣duce, sent two of their subtlest members, Scot and Luke Robinson, in shew to wait upon Monk, but in effect to watch and observe him, and to give them an account of all his actions, for their Jealousie of him dayly increa∣sed. The General came to St. Albans upon the 28 th. of January, and there made an hault, sending from thence a letter to the Junto, which he had framed before-hand as Nottingam, in which he desired to have his quarters assigned him, according to the list he had sent, ready drawn in his letter, and that thoses forces that were now there, might draw forth and march to severall Quarters, far enough a sunder, as he had also by his list inclosed appoynted or desired▪ telling them he did it upon ma∣ture consideration, of the present posture of their affairs, that those places he had assigned to them, who were to march out, might be secured for them, he having in∣telligence of their distemper'd condition, and that he presumed with submission, that it would not be for their service, that those souldiers then in London lately in Re∣bellion against them, should mingle with those of his approved faithfull Regiments, till they should, by their new Officers put over them, be reduced to a more assu∣red

obedience to them. Colonel Merley's and Colonel Fagg's Regiments were excepted, he having an assurance of them. This letter was sent by Colonel Lydeot, who was allyed to the Speaker. This letter caused a violent dis∣pute, which lasted from 8 in the morning, till 12 at noon, the result of which was; That the Parliament did agree with the distributions of the souldiers according to the Lists, and that the Souldiers be forth with distributed accordingly. The General was not a little glad to hear of this, for by this he did his business, and it was of great consequence as to his design, in thus getting the sole possession of London and Westminster into his power: Fleetwoods armie marched out of London, having a months pay assigned them, but this did not satisfie, nor keep them from grumbling, and some of them mutined at Somerste-house, but at last were fain to follow their fel-lows. The Junto would have given the General a 1000. pounds a year out of Sir George Booths estate, but he refused it; and then they grant him St James's park dureing their pleasure.

Upon the 3d of February, having sent his Lady and family before him, he marched into London, with his Ar∣mie, entring by the way of Grays Jun-lane and so thorow Chancery lane and Temple bar, into the Strand, where, about Somerset House he was met by the Speaker, where they complemented one another, and because he would not fall more under the suspition of his Jealous Masters, he is content to accept of the Lodgings they had appoynted for him at White-Hall. Goeing to the Parliament House on Munday the 6 of February he received the thanks of the Junto, and afterwards made a speech to them, standing at the back of a velvet chair they had placed for him within the Bar, in which he thank'd them for the Honour they had done him, and among other things, after he had give them an account of Affairs, he humbly desired them to satisfie the expectation of the Nation, in the establishment of their Laws, Liberties, and Properties, to remove the Conceit, which the people had of their in∣tending to perpetuate themselves, by their determining thir own Session, and for providing for future Parlia∣ments,

and the fewer qualifications the better; intreating them to use the Nobility and Gentry civilly, and telling them that the Phanaticks were as dangerous as Cavaliers. This speech of his was no good Musick in their ears, and some of the hasty rash ones among them, had much adoe to forbear interrupting him, however, tho' galled, they dissembled a while, for that the City still continued re∣fractory, and had passed a Vote in Common Council Feb. 8. Not to pay or levie any Taxes till they had a full and free Parliament. Upon which the Junto thinking this to be highly derogatorie to their Authoritie, the Council of Sate order the General, the next morning to go into the City with a part of the Armie, and to seize on 11 of the most active of them, and to pull down their Posts and Chains, to unhinge their Gates, and take away their porcullissis. The Generae was surprized at this or∣der, knowing it would render him odious to the Citizens, and suspected that they designed by this means, to make an utter breach between the City and Him, that they might tye him the surer to their own party. He was one of the Council of State, but did not sit among them, be∣cause he denyed to take the Oath, yet he went to them, & debated the business with them, til mid-night, divert but he found nothing he could say would their resolutions. They also ordered him to quar∣ter his souldiers upon them, till he had brought them to obedience. He saw he was now forced to obey, or quit his Command; and to do the latter at this time, would spoyle all he had labour'd for; and openly to make an in∣terruption had then been equally dangerous, being not yet fully assured of his souldiers: wisely therefore he resolves to obey these orders, and by this means to try the spirits of the souldiers, and of the Citizens, and also to quash the suspitions of his Masters. His Commission being now expireing. The next day therefore he marches to Guil-Hall, and peremptorily demands the Assessment▪ They plead Magna Charta, and the Petition of Right and the Act of the Junto made the day before Lambert turn'd them out, that they were not to pay Taxes without their Consent in

Parliament, which they had not, for they had no Burgesses in the House. Upon this refusal, the General seises 9 of the 11 they had appointed him, and to the amasement of the Citizens, who had thought him their friend, and to the souldiers; who obeyed his orders very unwillingly. He pull'd down their Posts and Chains; and applications being made to him by some of the most sober of the Ci∣tizens, he could not but restifie how ungratefull the Action was to him, but that he was under Masters, whom he was bound to obey, but promised he would write to them the next day about it, as he did, giving the Junto an Account, how he had obeyed their orders, as to seising the persons they had commanded him to seize, and had pulled down their Posts and Chains, but had not as yet medled with their Gates, because the Common Council were appoynted to meet that morning, and he doubted not, but that all things would be composed to their satisfaction, and the Assessment paid. But the Junto, upon the reading his Letter, grew higher and more violent than before, and without other answer, sent him a peremptory order, not only to unhinge their ga∣tes, and take away the portcullisies, but to break them all to pieces and likewise order'd, That the present Common Council of the City, should be dissolved, and declared them nul and voyd, ordering him not to let them meet. Vext at his noble Heart the General was, to see himself, made the Junto's Executioner; but least they should at this time vacate his Commission, which he thought they sought at present for; he fully executed their Or∣ders, to the great Grief of the City, and for a time to the utter loss of their Affection, and he perceived also the temper of his own souldiers, who many of them utterly refused; tho' they told him they would dye for him in Battell: but this was a work unworthy of souldiers, to a Citty that was their friend. He as secretly rejoyced, to find how well they agreed, tho' he made shew to the contrary; but this was the la••t service he ever intended to do this Junto: for on the 10 of February, his Commis∣sion was at an end, and he expected they would have

[illustration]

General Monck Marc∣hing into London.

Monck & his Soldiers pulling down the Citty Gates posts and chaines.

A free Parlyament Voted the King to be sent for

The K: & 2 Dukes Riding in through London attended &c. Arbitrary Government abolished.

r••new'd it, and returned to Whitehall, but in re••u••tal of this service, his ungratefull and ungracious Ma••ters fearing too much greatness in any one Man, instead of renewing his Commission, they had made him a Co∣lonel again, and joyned 4 others with him, equal in Command. This was an hand some occasion for Monk now to begin to unhood himself, and being wisely ma∣naged, might be a good means of induceing his Officers to joyn with him in his business. He represents the mat∣ter to them, and they unanimously conclude, that the Junto did intend at length to supplant them all, and im∣pose upon them, and the whole Nation. The same day the City Gates were beat down, Praise God Barebonne, with a rabble of Phanaticks, present the Junto, with a Pe∣tition, that none might be imployed in Civil or Military Offices, untill they had taken the Oath of Renunciation, and had the Thanks of the House.

The name of those joyned in the Commission with General Monk were, Hazelrig, Merley, Walton, and Alu∣red, 3 of which were to be a Quorum, and when it was moved by Monk's friends, that he might be always of the Quorum it was carried in the Negative, which so exaspera∣ted the General, that having tryed his Officers, he se∣cretly ordered all the Armie to be drawn up, and having prepared a Letter, signed by himself and the Cheifest Offi∣cers of his Armie, in which they Complain of the Junto's Countenanceing Lambert and Vain, and permitted Ludlow to sit with them, tho accused by Sir C. Coot of high Treason they conclude that by Friday next, they should issue out writs for the filling up the House, & when filled, should rise at their appoynted time to give way to a free Parliament.

The Letter they sent to the Junto sitting, and imme∣diatly march into London, to shake hands with the City: on the 11 of February the Armie is drawn up into Fins∣bury feilds and the General being invited to dinner, by the Lord Major, who at first was very shie, not knowing how to believe what some of Monks friends had told him of the General's Letter to the Junto, and of his resolving to de∣clare for a free Parliament, but before they parted, the

General himself gave him, and the rest of the Citizens, such satisfaction of his Integrity, that, overjoy'd, they cau∣sed the souldiers to be feasted, and Quarters in the City to be provided for them, the Bells in all the Churches to ring, and at night Bonfires to be made in every street, declareing for a free Parliament.

In the mean time the Junto read the Generals and his Officers Letter, which caused a very great disorder in the House: however they thought it best to dissemble, and secretly resolve to ruine Him, if they can, tho' openly they Vote him the thanks of the House, and send away Scot and Robinson to give it him, and to let him know they were about qualifications for members to be Chosen, for the filling up their House. But when they heard of what was done in the City, the Rumpers gnashed at it, and an∣gry they were, that they could not take revenge on the subscribers of the late Remonstrances for a free Parlia∣ment, whose Estates they earnestly longed to be dealing with. And now in the nick of Time comes a Declaration from Ireland, where they had secured Sir Hardress Waller a Rumper, which was of the same nature with those of the English Counties; but more bold and resolute, speaking their Minds freely, the Lord Broughill being one of the Cheif promotors of it. His Excellency having waited some days for an answer to his Letter, and receiving none, but what Scot and Robinson brought him, who durst not stay in the City, for fear of being stoned; and finding nothing done in reference to the filling the House, he set himself about considering some way to dissolve the Junto, without force or violence. In this juncture, many of the secluded Members were in and about the City; Some of whom ad∣dressed themselves to the General, who procured a Con∣ference between ten of them, and ten of the Junto; where, the one party challenged admission as Members of the House, unjustly forced from it before; the others refused it, unless they would confirm all that was done since by them, or at least ingage as they had done against a sin∣gle person, and House of Lords; but when they could not agree about these poynts; Monk who was present both

times, (for they had two meetings) clearly discerning more of self-interested wilfulness than any Reason in what the Rumpers urged, a day or two after sent for the Secluded, and demanded if they were of the same mind, and resolved not to engage against a single person, to which they answering affirmatively, and professing to be immoveable therein, he got above fourscore of them together to Whitehall, where recommending the care of Re∣ligion, and the State to them, and telling them how suteable Physick a full and free Parliament would be for the crazed body of this Natton, he told them the House was open to them, and prayed for their good success, and so on the 21th of February they went and took their places in the House; which was managed so secretly, that the Junto knew nothing of their comming, till they appeared; which so surprised them, that they could not tell whether they had best sit still, or leave their places. The mo∣derate among them stayed, but the grand sticklers for a Common Wealth, knowing now they should be out-Voted; and that they should be able to do no good, or rather further mischeif, quitted the House.

Whilst these things were transacting, the Junto had endeavoured all ways possibly, to have gotten Monk out of the City, that they might have had him in their power; inviteing him to fit in the Council of State, and had sent Colonel Alured to persuade him; but he was too wise to trust them, for he had secret intelligence of their inten∣tions of sending him to the Tower, or of serving him worse; for they foresaw their own ruine: he excused himself by his care of secureing the City by his pre∣sence, who were full of disturbance, and ready to mutinee. But now the secluded Members, having gotten in, eleven years after they had been kept out, being double the number of the former sitters, out-Voted them still, so as there was no interruption. They had long been stan∣ders by, and had seen more than the Gamesters, and now they mean to improve their animadversions and ex∣perience to the doeing of a great deal in a little time. They fall to work presently, where they were ab∣ruptly

forced to break off December 1648, confirming their Vote made then by another now. That the Con∣cessions of his Late Maiesty, were a sufficient Ground to pro∣ceed on, for setling the peace of the Kingdom. Hereby Vacateing all that had been done contrary thereunto, dureing their Recess. Brave Monk is by them consti∣tuted Captain General of all the forces in England, Scotland, and Ireland; and He with General Mountague, made Admirals at Sea. Sir William Waller is made Leiu∣tenant General of the land forces: Colonel Edward Ros∣siter General of the Horse, and Vice Admiral Lawson Continued in his Command. Severel Gentlemen committed by the Rumpers order were then released, and among others Sir George Booth, who took his place in the House, and the City Gates, Portcullisses, Posts, and Chains, were ordered to be repaired at the pub∣lique charge. Then they provided to secure the Na∣tion by two seasonable Acts, the one for an Assessment, the other for the Militia, and past some Acts concer∣ning Ministers. Lastly they consult about dissolving themselves, to which the Rump party, were very un∣willing, and therefore many of them intended to be absent, when that business should be debated, because they would not give their consent: But the others smelling their design, watched a convenient time, and issuing out writs in the name of the Keepers of the Li∣berties, &c. for a full and free Parliament, to convene on the 25th. of April following, saveing to the House of Lords their Rights, notwithstanding the Commons in this Juncture had been necessitated to proceed without them: They upon Friday the 16th of March 1659, when the greatest number of the Rumpers were present, dissolve themselves by Act. Thus was an un∣denyable Period put to this Tragical long Parliament, by their own Vote, tho' it was legally ipso facto dissolved before, by the Death of King Charles the 1st. whose writs had summoned them together.

But before they dissolved themselves, they settled a new Council of State, to govern in the intervall of

the Parliaments, and abrogated the Oath of Abjuration and the ••ormer Council. The chief of these were General, George Monk, General Mountague, Mr. An∣nesly, President, the Lord Fairfax, Sir William Waller, Mr. Hollis, Pierpoint, Rossiter, Saint-Johns Widdrington, Sir Anthony Ashly-Cooper, and others, to the number of thirty in all, who behaved themselves with much cir∣cumspection, setting forth a Proclamation against all disturbers of the Peace either in Action or Speech, and tendring an Engagement for peaceable demeanor, to be subscribed by such as they suspected, which Lambert re∣fusing was committed to the Tower, disarming the Pha∣naticks every where, they purged the Army of Schisma∣tical Officers and Soldiers, taking care of the Garisons. Overton, a Fifth-Monarchy-Man, was removed out of his Government of Hull, and Collonel Charles Fairfax was placed in his Room. Collonel Rich made some stir about St. Edmunds-bury; but Collonel Rich. Ingoldsby quieted his Soldiers, and seised him, and thereupon was restored to that Regiment, from whose Command the Wallingfordians had put him by, when they degraded young Cromwell.

Thus ended the Arbitrary and Tyranical Usurpation of the Rumpers, by the great providence of God, and the good Genius of Englands means, in raising up the Great and Renowned Monk to be a Saviour to his Nation, and to re∣duce the Monarchy, to its legal, antient, and happy state again, and that the torrent of violence and Arbitrary Tyrany, that had so variously over-run and spoiled the Land, might be lost and sunk into the Earth, whence it sprung, and the Stream of Government, bounded by Laws and ancient Customs, might again run in its right Course and ancient Channel, from whence it had been diverted▪ And now I should conclude, having fully finished my Draught, or Picture of Arbitrary and Tyranical Government which I have taken from the Life, being the true Histo∣ry and Resemblance of the Monster, now so much feared and which no Man that is a lover of the Peace of this Nati¦on, and that hath his Sence and Reason, can behold with out Horror and Indignation, and resolve in himself t••

suffer much, rather than to run the hazard of raising up this Ghost, to the raine of three Kingdoms and the Lives and Estates of so many persons as must be devoured for dayly food, to maintain the Life of such a Monster; the remembrance of which, moved by the sight of this very Picture of it, is enough to affright, I shall therefore only, as the last touches to this piece, shew you as it were the last struggle or gasp for Life, of the overthrown Mon∣ster, and so finish my Design, and that in few words.

Lambert, whether by neglect, or Treachery of his Kee∣pers is not known, escapes out of the Tower, and soon after appears in Arms, with a party of his Cashired Of∣ficers and Soldiers, once more to embroil the Nation, but he was proclaimed Traitor, and the whole Nation be∣ginning to hope for a setled Peace, were unanimously bent to aid the General (if need were) against him: He had chosen Edg-Hill near Keinton in Warwick-shire for the place of his Rendezvouz, hopeing it would prove as Ominous to the Royal Interest, as it had done before; and in all probability, there would have been a great Confl••ence of all sorts of Se∣ctaries to him in a short space, and he was not without hope, that if the old Soldiers were sent against him, ma∣ny of them would turn to him, but he was eagerly pur∣sued by some parties of Horse and Foot, and Collonel Charles Howard had almost overtaken him; but it was Collonel Ingoldsby's, good hap to light upon him near Daventry in Northampton-shire, where Lambert was surpri∣zed with a strange Consternation, and durst not engage tho he was nothing inferior in numbers to the others, which his followers observing, some of them went over to his pursuers, others slunk away and himself taken by Colonel Ingoldsby the 22d. of April 1660. and with Col∣lonel Cobbet, Major Creod, and Captain Haz••erig, son to Sir Arthur, was sent up to London, and two days after, passing by Hide-Park, he saw 20000 Horse and Foot of the City Regiments, and Auxiliaries, there Training, with divers of the Nobility and Gentry of the Nation, trailing Pikes voluntarily among them, and the same day he was committed to the Tower.

This ended, ••owards the setling of the Peace of the Nation. His Excellency had wrought his Officers to de∣clare, they would with him acquiesce in the Resolves of the Parliament, appointed to meet the 25th of April 1660. who accordingly met, the Lords and Peers in the upper-house taking their places, by virtue of their Birth∣right, who soon, according to the whole Nations ex∣pectations and Prayers, restored his Ma••esty to his Right, his Crown and Dignity; the Nobility to their ancient Birthrights and Priviledges, the People to their proper∣ty, freedom, and liberties, and the Laws to their an∣cient course and boundaries; the three Kingdoms rejoy∣cing and a long Peace, quietness and tranquillity succeed∣ing; which yet is grateful to the memory, of all Loyal and good Subjects: therefore however of late our old Jealousies and fears are increased by our secret Adver∣saries, yet let all people remember what hath past, and by viewing this Picture of the most horrid and devour∣ing Dragon, called Arbitrary and Tyrannical Ʋsurpation; let them abhor it, and beware of falling under the same power, and into the same snare by any specious or co∣lourable Pretence whatsoever; and continually pray that the Peace of the Nation may be continued, with the Life of his most Gracious Majesty, whom the King of Kings preserve both in the Throne and in the Hearts of his people. Amen.

Notes

• * 1.1

  He was to have been made Earl of Ess••••e and Knight of the Gar∣ter; his S••n of the Bed-chamber to the Prince; Ireton ••ord Lievtenant of Ireland.