A compleat history of the life and raigne of King Charles from his cradle to his grave collected and written by William Sanderson, Esq.

My Lords,

The House of Commons are very sensible, and do tenderly and affecti∣onately consider, that this your dutifull and faithfull advice is a large testimonie of your fidelitie to the King, affection to this State, and of wisdom, for honour, securitie and peace of his Majes••ie, and both King∣doms, and not onely very acceptable to this House, but likewise of great advantage to both Nations.

They clearly perceive, you rightly understand the causes of our Di∣stempers, and your carefull endeavours to complie with them in the qui∣eting and removing of the same: that the brotherly Communion lately confirmed by both Parliaments of England and Scotland, binde them both to maintain the peace and liberties of one another, being highly con∣cerned equally therein, as the assured means of the safetie and preserva∣tion of both, and being so united, the Disturbance of the one must needs disquiet and distemper the peace of the other, as hath been often acknow∣ledged by them both. They are likewise sensible that those waies which you advise are the onely means to settle peace and unitie in this Kingdom, viz.

First, to endeavour a right understanding between his Majestie and his People, by which he may truly see the real causes of these Distur∣bances, and their Authours, who are his faithfull and loyal Subjects, his faithfull and dutifull Counsellours, and who not, by which means the brotherly affection betwixt the two Nations, shall be confirmed to the glorie of God, and peace of the Church and State of both Kingdoms, their uni∣tie advanced, and all mistakes and jealousies betwixt his Majestie and this Kingdom, removed, and the establishment of the affairs settled in perpetual peace and tranquillitie; the Liberties and Privileges of his Subjects freely enjoyed under his royal Scepter, which is the most assured Foundation of his Majesties honour and greatness of the securitie of his royal Person, Crown and Dignitie.

Secondly, the removal and prevention of all such plots and practises, entertained by the Papists, Prelates, and their Adherents, whose aim in all these Troubles hath been to prevent all further Reformation, and to subvert the puritie and truth of Religion, their constant endeavours have been to stir up Division betwixt his Majestie and his People, by their questioning the Authoritie of Parliaments, and the lawfull Liberties of the Subjects, and really weakening his Majesties power and authoritie royal, upon pretence of defending the same, which mischievous. Counsels, Conspiracies and Attempts, have produced these Distempers in his Ma∣jesties Kingdoms of England and Ireland.

Thirdly, that his Majestie would be pleased to have recourse onely, to the faithfull advise of his Parliament, and to depend thereupon as the happie means to establish the prosperitie and quiet of this Kingdom, and in his royal wisdom to consider and prevent these Apprehensions of fear, which may possess the hearts of his Majesties Subjects in his other King∣doms, if they shall conceive the Authoritie of Parliaments, and the

Rights and Liberties of the Subjects to be here called in question.

My Lords, these your faithfull and loyal Propositions is the greatest Demonstration of your affections faithfully united and dev••t••d to the se∣curitie of his Majestie, and your heartie Wishes and Desires of the peace and prosperitie, as well of his Majesties Kingdom of England, as Scotland and Ireland; these Propositions have been the onely endea∣vours and intentions of his Majesties high Court of Parliament, to ef∣fect and make manifest to all men; and in any other means whatsoever that shall by you be conceived necessary to the composing and settling of these present Distractions, they declare themselves desirous to have the same communicated unto them, and they shall be right joyfull and thank∣full therefore, and will willingly and chearfully joyn with you in the same.

The House of Commons having an itching desire of power, had moved the Upper House to joyn with them for obtaining the com∣mand of the Tower, and mannagement of the Militia, and being refused therein, yet they will not be beaten off, but singly of themselves petition the King for them both, and other principal Forts of the Kingdom, and pray for his gracious and speedy An∣swer, Ian. 26.

That his Majestie having preferred to the Lieutenancie of the Tower, a person of a known Fortune and unquestionable Reputation, wonders that he should be pressed to remove him without any particular Charge objected against him; and therefore untill some just Exception be, he is obliged to preserve his own work, lest his favour and good opi∣nion become a mis-fortune to his Servants.

As for his Forts and Castles of this Kingdom, they shall alwaies re∣main in such hands as the Parliament may con••ide in, which being the inseperable Flowers of the Crown vested in him, derivative from his An∣cestours, by the Fu••damental Laws of the Kingdom, he will reserve to himself, and to bestow them as their Eminencie shall not be disproved by his Parliament.

For the Militia, which by Law is subject to no command but his own, when any particular course shall be digested by them for ordering the same, inreference to his honour and safetie of the Kingdom, He will then return to them a satisfactorie Answer therein.

And that he having granted to them more than ever any King hath done, they will not ask more than ever any Subjects have desired.

And therefore conjures them by all the Acts of Dutie and Favour, which they have received, by their hopes of future happiness, by their love of Religion, and peace of the Kingdom, in which, that of Ireland cannot be forgotten, That they will not be transported by un••••cessarie Iealousies and Fears, but that they will speedily pursue the proposed way by his former Messages to compose the Distractions of this Kingdom.

Nor was this satisfactory, but that again they petition for the same, and for his Majesties speedy and gracious Answer.

To which the King not over-hasty to resolve, or rather not to al∣ter from his former Resolutions therein, The old way of Petitions are set on work from all Counties.

From the County of Suff••lk to the number of 1500. against the Votes of Popish Lords and Bishops in the House of Peers, Ian. 31. and were answered, approving their care and endeavour for the pub∣lick good, with promise that the House of Commons will use their endeavour for their Desires. Another Petition of 2000. Mecha∣nicks, Tradesmen about London, to the same effect. And were answer∣ed, that the House of Commons were just now in consideration thereof. The People were taught to reply, that they doubted not the care of the Commons House, but they were told, that all their Distrust was in the House of Lords, where the Popish Lords and B••shops had the greatest power; and there it stuck, whose Names they desired to know; and were so earnest, that unwilling∣ly they would withdraw, whilest it was debated. And afterwards had this Answer. That the House of Commons had already endea∣voured Relief from the Lords in their Requests, and shall so continue, till Redress be obtained.

And at the tail of these the City Dames accompanied a Petition to the like effects, and were heartily treated for their care of the common good.

The second of February the House of Commons sent for Sir Ed∣ward Dearing one of their Members, and examined him concerning his Book of all his Speeches this Parliament, and some intended to be spoken; in which some Particulars there••n tended to the disho∣nour of that House and their Privileges, for which he was excluded the House, and his Book to be burnt at Westminster, Cheapside, and Smithfield, and he committed to the Tower during pleasure.

The Committee met at Merchant-tailors Hall, upon the Bill for raising four hundred thousand pounds for Ireland, which was after∣wa••ds effected, but very little thereof sent to their succour.

A Message was sent from the Lords to the Commons that they had passed the Bill for disabling all persons in holy Orders to have any Place or Vote in Parliament, or to exercise any temporal Juris∣diction, which receiving some Amendments, voted in the House of Commons, the Bills were carried up by Sir Robert Harley to the Lords, with high expressions of the Commons joy for the even Agreement, and their Desire to the Lords to hasten the Bill for the King to pass.

But not to let him take breath for his second Answer hereto, and being sensible that their five Members are lodged under the oblo∣quy of Delinquency, and under the Charge of high Treason, both Houses once again petition, that they may be informed with∣in

two Days; what proof there is against them, that they may be called to a legal Trial, it being their undoubted Right, that no Member of Parliament can be proceeded against without the con∣sent of Parliament, Febr. 2.

And to these two Petitions presented both in a Day, they receive this Answer.

That to the first of them, when he shall know the extent of power which is extended to be established in those persons to be Commanders of the Forts and Militia, and to what time limited, no power shall be limit∣ed, no power shall be executed by his Majestie alone without advice of Parliament, so that they declare them such by Names, whom he shall have just cause to refuse.

And to the other Petition, That as he once conceived, he had ground enough to accuse them, so now he findes as good cause wholly to desert any prosecution of them. And lest some of his Subjects may be involved in some unknowing and unwilling Errours, he is ready to grant such a free and general pardon as his Parliament shall think conve∣nient.

And now the Parliament considers the Kings Resolution in both those Petitions, not to intrust the power of the Militia out of him∣self, nor otherwise to clear Kimbolton and the five Members, but in∣clusive by a general Pardon, which they utterly refuse.

These two Demands of the Parliament necessarily depending each of the other, the breach of Privileges giving them just cause of Fears and Jealousies, to what excess the Kings will to do, and power to execute, might increase.

In these two, therefore, they as violently resolve, to binde his hands, and never left him till he was forced to take his leave of them, which so daily follows.

But to prepare his affairs to his own intentions, he resolves to send the Queen out of the Danger, who was lately scared with a Report, that the Parliament had an intent to accuse her of high Treason, and that Articles were drawn up to that purpose, which the Parliament excuse as a publick Scandal upon them.

To which she mildly makes answer. That there was a general Re∣port thereof, but she never saw any Articles in writing, and having no certain Authour for either, she gave little credit thereto: nor will she believe that they would lay any Aspersion upon her, who hath ever been very unapt to mis-conster the Actions of any one person, and much more the proceedings of Parliament; and shall at all times wish an happy un∣derstanding between the King and his People.

In truth there had not been onely a Rumour abroad, but a dan∣gerous conceit, that the Queen had so much power with the King, as to mis-advise him; and had she not resolved to be gone aside, they did intend to drive her away, or to have made the Court too hot for her. And therefore the King acquaints the Houses, that he was pressed by the States Ambassadour, to send the Princess Maria immediately into Holland to her late betrothed Husband, the young Prince of Orange, and upon the Queens earnest Desire, to give her Majesty leave to accompany her.

And with her were conveyed all the King and Queens Jewels, not leaving behinde any of those entailed to the Crown by his Pre∣decessors, with which and the Prince of Orange's assistance, the King doubted not to raise his party considerable to oppose the Parlia∣ment. But no doubt nothing could work more for the Parlia∣ments advantage; and although they were informed of the Purloin which might have been prevented, and seized, yet they suffered so much Treasure to be transported, to be rid of all toge∣ther.

We have time to consider to what miserable solitude the King was brought; his dearest Consort the Queen, and his eldest Daughter the Princess, with the honour of her Court, to be en∣forced to fly beyond Seas; himself desolate, enforced to withdraw from his Parliament, his Privy Council, from his usual residence at White-hall, and from the strength and support of the City of Lon∣don, so wonderfully obliged to him for his grace and favour. But all this appears by his own princely consideration, which he expres∣seth thus.

Although I have much cause (says the King) to be troubled at my Wifes Departure from me, and out of my Dominions; yet not her ab∣sence so much, as the Scandal of that necessitie, which drives her away, doth afflict me. That she should be compelled by mine own Subjects, and those pretending to be Protestants, to with-draw for her safetie: This be∣ing the first Example of any Protestant Subjects, that have taken up Arms against their King, a Protestant: for I look upon this now done in England, as another Act of the same Tragedie which was lately begun in Scotland; the Brands of that Fire being ill quenched, have kindled the like Flames here. I fear such Motions (so little to the adorning of the Protestant Profession) may occasion a farther alienation of minde, and Divorce of affections in her, from that Religion, which is the onely thing wherein we differ.

Which yet God can, and, I pray, he would in time take away; and not suffer these practises to be any obstruction to her judgment; since it is the motion of those men, (for the most part) who are yet to seek and settle their Religion for Doctrine, Government, and good manners, and so not to be imputed to the true English Protestants; who continue firm to their former settled Principles and Laws.

I am sorrie my Relation to so deserving a Ladie should be any occasion of her Danger and Affliction; whose Merits would have served her for a protection among the savage Indians; while their rudeness and bar∣baritie knows not so perfectly to hate all Virtues, as some mens subtiltie doth; among whom I yet think few are so malitious as to hate her for her self. The fault is, that she is my Wife.

All Iustice then as well as Affection commands me to studie her Secu∣ritie, who is onely in Danger for my sake; I am content to be tossed, weather-beaten, and shipwrackt, so as she may be in a safe Harbour.

This comfort I shall enjoy by her safetie in the midst of my personal Dangers, that I can perish but half, if she be preserved: in whose memo∣rie and hopefull Posteritie, I may yet survive the malice of mine Ene∣mies, although they should be satiated with my Bloud.

I must leave her and them, to the Love and Loyaltie of my good Sub∣jects; and to his protection, who is able to punish the Faults of Princes, and no less severely to revenge the Injuries done to them, by those, who in all Dutie and Allegiance, ought to have made good that safetie, which the Laws chiefly provide for Princes.

But common civilitie is in vain expected from those that dispute their Loyaltie: nor can it be safe (for any Relation) to a King, to tarrie among them who are shaking hands with their Allegiance, under pretence of laying faster hold on their Religion.

'Tis pitie so noble and peacefull a Soul should see, much more suffer, the rudeness of those who must make up their want of Iustice, with in∣humanitie and impudence.

Her sympathie with me in my afflictions, will make her Virtues shine with greater lustre, as Stars in the darkest Nights; and assure the envi∣ous World, that she loves me, not my Fortunes.

Neither of us but can easily forgive, since we do not much blame the unkindness of the Generalitie, and Vulgar; for we see God is pleased to trie both our patience, by the most self-punishing sin, the ingratitude of those, who having eaten of our Bread, and being enriched with our Bountie, have scornfully lift up themselves against us; and those of our own Houshold are become our Enemies. I pray God lay not their sin to their charge; who think to satisfie all obligations to Dutie, by their Corban of Religion; and can less endure to see, than to sin against their Benefactours as well as their Sovereigns.

But even that policie of mine Enemies is so far venial, as it was ne∣cessarie to their Designs, by scandalous Articles, and all irreverend De∣meanour, to seek to drive her out of my Kingdoms; lest by the influence of her Example, eminent for Love as a Wife, and Loyaltie as a Sub∣ject, she should have converted to, or retained in their Love and Loyal∣tie, all those whom they had a purpose to pervert.

The less I may be blest with her companie, the more I will retire to God, and mine own Heart, whence no malice can banish her. Mine Enemies may envie, but they can never deprive me of the enjoyment of her Vir∣tues, while I enjoy my self.

It was mightily enforced then, and the scandalous suspition con∣tinues to this Day, That at the Kings late being in Scotland, when the Irish Rebellion then brake out, the Plot and contrivance was there hatched. Not so horrid as it fell out to be, a monstrous Mas∣sacre of all the Protestants; but it was surmised, that a Mutiny or shew of Insurrection there, might be an occasion of raising Forces here, for to subdue them, and so to be made usefull in reducing the Parliament to Reason.

And to increase that opinion, it hath been objected, that how earnestly the King was fain to urge the Parliament for that Re∣lief very often to reminde them of the Misery, which they could not but deeply resent, yet never was too hasty, nor at all willing to intrust any power of Arms to the Kings dispose, much less for him in person to be their General, as he often offered.

To add to all, it had been considered in Parliament, how general∣ly the Papists flocked over to Ireland, and though the Houses had ordered a strict Examination for prevention thereof, yet it was complained of by Master Pym at a Conference, and printed by their Order, That since the stop upon the Ports against all Irish Papists, many of the chief Commanders now in the Head of the Rebells have been li∣censed to pass thither by his Majesties immediate Warrant.

His Majesty therefore having used all possible ways to prevent it, he would be resolved, if this Speech were so delivered by Master Pym, that they review upon what information it was grounded, and so to be found false, and the King injured; or the King to be assured by whose means his Authority has been so highly abused, as to be made to conduce to the assistance of that abhorred Rebelli∣on; and so to see himself vindicated, Febr. 7.

To this Message they justifie the Authour Master Pym, what he said, to be the sense of the House, and ordered to be printed: and that they are so advertised, had your Majesties Warrant; and that some others have been staid, and are yet in safe custody, and named these to be the Lord Delvin, and four others in his company, and one supposed to be a Priest, Colonel Butler Brother to the Lord Mini∣ard, now in Rebellion, and Sir George Hamilton, all Papists, and an∣other the Son of the Lord Nettersfield, whose Father and Brother are now in Rebellion. And are sorry that his Majesties extreme caution therein hath been so ill seconded by his Ministers, of which they beseech him to prevent the future dishonour to his Majesty, and mischief to the Kingdom, Febr. 10.

To this the King replies. Whether such a general Adver∣tising be ground enough for Master Pym's Speech and their positive Affirmation, and challenges them to name any so warranted, which he is assured that they cannot, and bids them lay it to heart, how this their Authority may trench upon his Honour in the affections

of his good people; as if not sensible enough of that Rebellion, so horrid and odious to all good Christians, by which in this Distracti∣on, what Danger may possibly ensue to his person and estate; and therefore expects their Declaration to vindicate his Inno∣cency and Honour.

And as for the Persons named, Butler and Nettersfield had their Passes of his Majesty in Scotland, long before any Restraint here; being assured of Butler's loyal affection to his service, and Uncle to the Earl of Ormond, approved faithfull, and both Protestants; and of Nettersfield, there never had been any the least suspition.

Nor did the King know of their Order of Restraint till Hamil∣ton's stay, who was the last that had any Licence.

And if any had been Papists, yet of known integrity; they may remember that the Lords Justices of Ireland declared in their Let∣ters, that they were so far from owning a publick Jealousie of all Papists, that they had armed divers Noble-men of the Pale that were Papists; and therefore expects their Declaration for his Vin∣dication, as in Duty and Justice they ought to do.

This he required, but that they would not do, and the King must sit down by the loss, and rest so satisfied. Nay, they never left cla∣mouring, till he had turned out Sir Iohn Byron, and put in Sir Iohn Coniers at their Nomination to be Lieutenant of the Tower of London.

And then they proceed to their Nomination of several fit persons for Trust of the Militia in their respective Counties.

And passes an Act for disabling all persons in Holy Orders to exercise any Temporal Jurisdiction or Authority; as if no men of Religion were fit to do Justice.

He tells them by Message, that to satisfie and compose all Dis∣tempers, he will by Proclamation require all Statutes concerning Recusants to be put in execution.

That the seven condemned Priests shall be banished, and all Ro∣mish Priests within twenty Days to depart the Kingdom.

That he refers the consideration of the Government and Litu••∣gie of the Church wholly to the Houses.

And offers himself in person to the Irish War.

Again the Parliament are at their five Members, and Lords and Commons petition, that though your Majestie ••inde cause to desert their Prosecution, yet in their Charge the whole Parliament is imputed; and therefore desire the King to send the Informers against the said Members with their suggestions to the Parliament, to be proceeded, as in 37, 38 Edward 3.

Thus forward they are, and the Parliament begin to ordain the

power of the Militia, for safeguard of the Parliament, Tower, and City of London, under the Command of Serjeant Major General Skippon, approving all his Orders and Commands already therein by former Directions; and now they establish him therein, decla∣ring, that if any person shall arrest or trouble him for so doing, he doth break the Priv••leges of Parliament, violate the Liberty of the Subject, and is thereby declared an Enemy to the Common-wealth. (No more mention of King or Kingdom.)

And they petition him to settle the Militia according to their Nomination of particular persons in Trust therein for all the several Counties.

To which the King respites till his Return, being now to con∣duct the Queen and the Princess Mary to Dover, for their Voyage into Holland.

Which they answer, is as unsatisfactory as an absolute Denial, pretending that the Irish endeavour to invade England, with assi∣stance of the Papists here, Febr. 22.

The Lord Digby for some passages heretofore, to prevent the Censure of the Parliament, was fled beyond Seas, and had written three Letters, one to the Queen, and two others to Secretary Ni∣cholas and Sir Lewis Dives, which the Parliament intercepting and opening, very maliciously ••omenting the Jealousie between the King and his People; therefore upon the Desire of the King for that Letter to the Queen, they send h••m all three, with their pray∣ers for the King, to perswade her Majesty not to correspond with him, or any other Fugitive or Traitours, who depend on the Exa∣mination and Judgment of Parliament.

The King now returned from Dover, from whence the Queen and the Princess Mary voyaged to H••lland, where she was to nego∣tiate Forreign Aid and Assistance for the Kings Designs, being too hot for him to remain at London, sends to Hampton Court for the Prince to meet him at Greenwich, wherein the Parliament were sur∣prised, as now doubting the effect; and therefore send a Message, th••t the Prince his Removal may be a cause to promote Jealousies and Fears, which they conceive very necessary to avoid, but could not prevail to prevent it.

The Parliament hav••ng now the Militia, the security of the Tower and City of London, Trained Bands of the Kingdom, and all the Forces out of the Kings hands; they begin to think upon Propositi∣ons of themselves for reducing the Rebells of Ireland, and order;

That two Millions and an half of those Acres to be confiscate of Rebells Lands in four Provinces, may be allotted to such persons as will disburse Moneys for mannaging that War, viz.

For each Adventure of

Two hundred pounds, one thousand Acres in Ulster.

Three hundred pounds, one thousand Acres in Connaught.

Four hundred and fifty pounds, one thousand Acres in Munster.

Six hundred pounds, one thousand Acres in Lemster.

All English Measure, Medow, Arable and profitable Pasture, (Bogs, Woods, and barren Mountains cast in over and above) in free and common Soccage of the King, as of his Castle of Dublin.

Secondly, that out of those Acres a constant Rent to be reserved to the Crown of England in this proportion:

Out of each Acre thereof in Ulster, one penny. Connaught, one penny half penny. Munster, two pence farthing. Lemster, three pence.

Thirdly, that for erecting Mannours, creating Corporations, re∣gulating of Plantations, Commissioners shall be impowred by Parliament.

Fourthly, all Undertakers to subscribe before several Days pre∣fixt in reference to the distance of abode from London.

Fifthly, their Moneys to be paid into the Chamber of London at four payments, viz. a fourth part in ten Days after subsign∣ing, and the third payment at thrice three Moneths.

Sixthly, at subsigning to pay down the twentieth part of his to∣tal Sum, and if he fail of his residue of the first fourth part within ten Days, he shall forfeit the twentieth part of the to∣tal deposited; and so much more of his fourth payment to be added thereto, as shall make up the one Moiety of the said first payment. And if he fail in any other of the three payments, he shall then forfeit his entire first fourth part, and all his Sub∣scription to accrue to the common benefit of the rest of the Undertakers, which the King confirms, Febr. 26.

And the Committee of Members issue out their Warrants.

We (the Committee appointed to receive the Moneys given by the Members of the House of Commons, for the Relief of the distressed that are come out of Ireland) require you to send a Certificate of what Sums of Money are collected in your Parish, and the Moneys to us who are appointed to receive the same.

It is marvellous what Contributions were gleaned from the people, by the prevailing Incitements of the Ministers, such whining for the distressed Brethren of Ireland, what vast Sums collected at every Church-doors, and paid, and how disposed, is yet very doubtfull: but how much or little the Members themselves did contribute, mine e••s were never witness, nor could I ever learn.

The Parliament thus forward in power, press the King to confirm the Ordinance of the Militia.

To which (the King now returned to Greenwich) sends this An∣swer, commanding the Lord Keeper Littleton to see it read to the House of Peers, Febr. 28.

He first findes great cause to except against the Preface, which confesseth a most dangerous Design upon the House of Commons, supposed to be an effect of the bloudy counsels of Papists, which some may understand by their printed Papers, to be his coming in person the fourth of Ianuary to demand the five Members.

In which he had no other Design than to require them to justice, without any intent of violation upon any person, nor was there any provocation by any of his Train.

As for the Militia, he is contented to allow the persons named for the Counties; but concerning the City of London, and other Corporations, it can not stand with justice or policy to alter their Government in that particular, but will grant to them such Com∣m••ssions as he hath done this Parliament to other Lieutenants, or otherwi••e he shall do it, than to have it first by some Law invested in him with power to transfer it to others, and to be digested into an Act of Parliament, rather than an Ordinance, lest there be a latitude for his good Subjects to suffer under any arbitrary power whatso∣ever.

As to the time for continuance of that power, he cannot consent to divest h••m••elf of the power which God and the Laws have pla∣ced in him▪ to put it into the hands of others, for an indefinite time.

And sin•••• the ground of their Designs refers to their Jealousies and Fea••, he hopeth that his grace to them since the former Ex∣ceptions ••s sufficient to expell any fear from former suspitions.

And since, he is willing to condescend to all their Proposals con∣cerning

the County Militia, onely excepting that of London, and other Corporations, which will be more satisfactory, if the Parlia∣ment weigh it well, than their own Proposals by an Ordinance, to which (for these Reasons) he cannot consent.

And because he perceives that in some places some persons be∣gin to intermeddle of themselves with the Militia, he expecteth that his Parliament should examine the particulars thereof, being of great concernment and consequence, and to be proceeded against according to Law.

And now it working very high, the King takes leave of these parts, and progresseth to Theobalds, declining this place and his Parliament. Nor are they willing to stay him, being that his ab∣sence would contribute to their intentions, yet thither they fol∣low him with a Petition, rather to put him forward, than to recall him.

Therein protesting, that if his Majesty persist in the Denial of the Militia, the Dangers are such as will endure no longer Delay, but to dispose of it by Authority of Parliament, and resolve so to do, as it hath been by them propounded.

And that for the safety of his person and people, in much Jea∣lousie and Fear, he will be pleased to continue his abode near Lon∣don and the Parliament, and to continue the Prince at Saint Iames's, or any other Houses near London, to prevent the Jealousies and Fears of the people.

That by the Laws of the Realm, the power of the Militia, of raising, ordering and disposing thereof, in any place, cannot be granted to any Corporation, by Charter, or otherwise, without consent of Parliament; and that those parts of the Kingdom that have put themselves in a posture of Defence, have done it by De∣claration and Direction of Parliament, March 1.

The King so much confounded with the former pressing Petiti∣ons, and this so peremptory, to which no Answers have appeared satisfactory, in much regret he suddenly replies, under his own hand.

That he is so amazed at this Message, he knows not what to an∣swer:

You speak of Iealousies and Fears, (says he) lay your hands to your hearts, and ask your selves, whether I may not in earnest be disturbed with Fears and Iealousies?

And if so, I will assure you, this your Message hath nothing lessened them.

For the Militia, I thought as much before my last Answer, being agreeable to what in Iustice or Reason you can ask, or I in honour grant, which I shall not alter in any point.

I wish my Residence near you might be so safe and honourable, that I had no cause to absent my self from White-hall. Ask your selves whe∣ther I have not?

I shall take that care of my Son which shall justifie me to God, as a Father, and to my Dominions as a King.

I assure you upon mine honour, I have no thoughts but of Peace and Iustice to my People, which I shall by all fair means seek to preserve, re∣lying upon the goodness of God, for the preservation of my self and Rights.

This is such a style of Resolution, they quickly proceed to Vo∣ting of all the particulars of their former Petitions, and the Kings Answers unsatisfactory.

And that the Kingdom be put into a posture of Defence, in such a way as is agreed upon by Parliament, and a Committee to pre∣pare a publick Declaration from these two Heads.

1. The just causes of the Fears and Iealousies given to the Parlia∣ment, and to clear them from any Iealousies conceived against them.

2. To consider of all matters arising from his Majesties Message, and what is fit to be done.

A man would wonder upon what grounds they should arm by Sea and Land, specially so hastily resolved, as the next day, March 2.

Advertisements (they say) of extraordinary preparations by the neighbouring Princes both by Land and Sea, the intentions where∣of are so represented, as to raise a just apprehension of sudden Dan∣ger to the King and his Kingdoms unless the wisdom of Parliament prevent it.

And therefore the Earl of Northumberland Admiral of England is commanded with all speed to order the Rigging of the Kings Ships, and fit them immediately for the Sea.

And to frighten us into fear, all Masters and Owners of Ships are perswaded to do the like, for the emergent occasions of publick Defence.

In order to these, the Beacons were new made up, Sea-marks set up, such riding, posting with Pacquets, whispering and Tales tel∣ling, as put the people in fear of they knew not what; wise men onely told the Truth, discovering the Enemy wholly at home.

I have been as brief as may be in the business of this year: and yet to satisfie the curious, I cannot omit all the occasions of this mi∣serable Eruption, which follows; presuming yet that this Declara∣tion designed may be spared the recording; for certainly, no new matter can be invented, and what hither to hath been the cause, the Reader has leave to judg.

But not to amuse your imaginations, it self must satisfie; the Declaration was born to Roiston by the Earls of Pembroke and Hol∣land. He who read it to the King, this Lord being raised and cre∣ated to become his most secret Counsellour, the most intimate in affection, the first of his Bed-chamber, his constant companion in all his sports and recreations, even in that place, and to this hour.

At the sight of him, the Kings countenance (me thought) mixed into compassion and disdain, as who should, as Caesar did, Et tu mi fili.

But on he went, to this effect, March 9.

The manifold Attempts to provoke your Majesties late Armie, and the Scots Armie, and to raise a Faction in London, and other parts, the Actours having their dependence, countenance, and encouragement from the Court; witness Jermin's Treason, who was transported beyond Sea by your Majesties Warrant; and that dangerous Petition delivered to Captain Leg by your Majesties own Hand, with a Direction sign∣ed C. R.

The false and scandalous Accusation against the Lord Kimbolton, and the five Members. Plotting and designing a Guard about your per∣son, labouring to infuse into the people an ill opinion of the Parliament, as if to raise Arms for a Civil War: in which Combustion Ireland would be lost.

That the Lord Digby was sent to Sir John Pennington to be landed beyond Sea, to vent his traiterous conceptions for the King to retire to some place of strength; offering to correspond by cyphers with the Queen, as if to procure some forreign Forces to assist your Majestie, answer∣able to your remove with the Prince as in a readiness for the acting of it.

Manifold Advertisements which they have from Rome, Venice, Paris, and other parts, expecting the effects of the Kings Design, to alter Religion, and ruine the Parliament.

That the Popes Nuntio hath solicited the Kings of France and Spain, to lend his Majesty four thousand Men a plece to help to maintain his Royalty against the Parliament.

And this foreign Force, the most pernicious and malignant De∣sign of all the rest, so they hope it is from his thoughts. Because no man will easily believe you will give up your People and Kingdom to be spoiled by strangers, if you did not likewise intend to change both your own profession in Religion, and the publick profession of the Kingdom, that so you might be more assured of these foreign States of the Popish Religion for the future support and defence.

They ••eseech his Majesty to consider how fair a way he hath to happiness, honour, greatness, plenty, security, if he would but joyn with his Parliament and people in defence of the Religion and Kingdom.

This is all they expect from him, and for which they shall return their Lives, Fortunes, and utmost Endeavours to support him and Sovereignty. And for the present, have but onely this to desire, To turn away his wicked Counsellours, and put his trust in Parliament.

At the reading of that part which mentioned Master Iermin's transportation by his Majesties Warrant, the King interrupted him, and said, That's false.

And at the business of Captain Leg, he told him, 'Tis a Lie.

And at the end of all, he said, He was confident the Parliament had worse information than he had Councils.

What have I denied you?

The Militia: said Holland.

That's no Bill.

The other replied, It was necessary.

Which I have not denied, but in the manner.

His Lordship would perswade the King, to come near the Parlia∣ment.

Have you given me cause? (said the King) This Declaration is not the way to it; and in all Aristotle's Rhetoricks there is no such Argu∣ment of perswasion.

Pembroke that he might say something said it over again, The Parliament prays him to come to them.

The King told him, Words were not sufficient.

What would you have Sir? said he.

The King replied, To whip a Boy in Westminster School that could not tell that by my Answer.

Then the Lord asked him, to grant the Militia for a time.

Not an hour; this was never asked of any King, with which I will not trust my Wife and Children.

But his Majesties Answer to all was this, That to their Fears and Iealousies, he would take time to satisfie all the World, hoping that God would in his good time discover the secrets and bottoms of all Plots and Treasons, to set him upright with his people.

For his Fears and Doubts are not trivial, while so many scandalous Pamphlets, seditious Sermons▪ sundry Tumults publick are uninquired into and unpunished. He must confess his Fears, calling God to witness, they are the greater, for the Religion, for his people, and for their Laws, than for his own Rights or safetie of himself, and yet he tells them, none of these are free from Danger.

What would you have? said he.

Have I violated your Laws?

Have I denied any one Bill?

What have ye done for me?

Have my people been transported with Fears and Apprehensions?

I have.

I offer a free pardon as your selves can devise.

There is a Iudgment from Heaven upon this Nation if these Distra∣ctions continue.

God so deal with me and mine, as all my thoughts and intentions are right for the maintenance of the true Protestant profession, the observa∣tion and preservation of the Laws of this Land.

God bless and assist the Laws for my preservation.

But his complete Answer to all comes in a Declaration to the Parliament, and to the people. Having little encouragement to Replies of this nature, when he is told of how little value his words are with them, though accompanied with love and justice. He dis∣avows the having any evil Counsellours about him, but leaves such to their censure where they shall finde them: in the mean time, they ought not to wound his Honour, under the common style of Evil Counsellours.

He hath formerly declared his faithfull affection to the Pro∣testant profession, his whole life answerable in practise, which should rather be acknowledged by them, than to declare any Design of his to alter it in this Kingdom. Imprecating God to be witness, and that the Judgments of Heaven may be manifested upon those that have or had any such Design.

As for the Scots Troubles, these unhappy Differences are wrapt up in perpetual silence by the Act of Oblivion passed in Parliaments of both Kingdoms, which stays him from any further Reply to re∣vive the memory of these Evils.

He thinks himself highly and causlesly injured in his royal Repu∣tation to have any Declaration, Action, or Expression of the Irish Rebells, or any Letters or strange Speeches to be uttered by such in reference to beget any mis-apprehension in the people, of his justice, piety, and affection, an evident advantage to the Rebells, by raising Fears to us here, and security to them there. Concern∣ing this sense of his good Subjects in Ireland, what hath he not done in his Messages to both Houses, offering his own person ready to adventure for their Redemption, being to give an account to God for his Interest in them.

He calls God to witness, he never had thought of any Resolution with his late Army to raise a Faction in London, or to force his Par∣liament.

That Captain Leg was then lately come from the Army to White-hall, with a Petition from the Officers, desiring the Parliament might have no interruption in the Reformation of the Church and State to the modell of Queen Elizabeths days; and for confirmati∣on to Sir Iacob Ashley of my opinion therein I writ C. R. The Peti∣tion will satisfie, if you shew it.

Master Iermin was gone from White-hall before the Restraint, nor had he the Kings Warrant after that time, fo•• 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Lord Kim∣bolton

and the five Members; it hath been rubbed over so oft, that but looking to his former Answer, they will appear abundantly sa∣tisfied.

He had great reason to raise a Guard at White-hall, to secure his own person, and to receive the dutifull tender of his good Subjects service, which was all he did to the Gentlemen of the Inns of Court.

And assures them in the word of a King, that the Lord Digby had left the Court with Warrant to pass the Seas, before the Vote of the House of Commons, or that his absence could be excepted against.

As for the wilde Advertisements from Rome, Venice, Paris, the Popes Nuntio, the Kings of France and Spain, which he is confi∣dent no sober man in all the Kingdom can believe, that the King is so desperate, so sensless, to entertain such Designs, to bring the Kingdom in destruction, and bury his Name and Posterity in perpe∣al infamy.

And having done with his Answer, somewhat he says besides: interrogates them, Can there yet want evidence on his part to joyn with his Parliament?

Hath he given no earnest but words?

Bids them look back upon their own Remonstrance in November last of the State of the Kingdom, which valued his Acts of Grace and Iustice at so high a Rate, that it declared the Kingdom a Gainer, though it should charge it self by Subsidies and Poll-money six Millions of Pounds; besides the contracting the Scots Demands of two hun∣dred and twenty thousand pounds.

Nay more, hath he not passed these Bills, for the Triennial Parliament, for relinquishing his Title to impose upon Merchants Goods, and his power of pressing of Souldiers, for suppressing the Courts of Star-chamber, High Commission, regulating the Council-table, Are th••se but words? The Bills for the Forests, the Stannerie Courts, the Clerk of the Markets, the taking away the Votes of the Bishops, nothing but words? What greater earnest can he give, than the Bill for the continuance of this Parliament, the length of which he wishes may never alter the na∣ture of Parliaments? and for a perfect reconciliation with his people, he offers a free Pardon. Nor doth he repent, but will meet them to add more, with alacritie and kindness, for the peace, honour, and prosperitie of this Nation.

We have heard what he hath done, and his promise to do more, which the common man (and of the wiser sort also) conceived very satisfactory.

I remember Master Hambden's Answer to an honest Member, who demanded, what they could desire more?

He answered, To part with his power, and to trust it to us. And to that end they went on.

First, by resolving (or absolving) the Oath of Allegeance no whit prejudiced by the Ordinance of the defence of the Kingdom That the Kings Commissions of Lieutenancy over the respective Counties are illegal and void. But that their Ordinance for the Mi∣litia is to be obeyed as the Fundamental Laws of this Kingdom. And that these shall be the Heads of another Declaration.

The King removes on his way Northward, evermore looks back with a Heart e••rning after his People and Kingdom, and at Hun∣tington, March 15. sends them this Message.

That he means to make his Residence at York, desires them to expe∣dite the business of Ireland, and if calamities increase upon that People, he shall wash his hands before all the World from imputation unto him.

He expects, that as he hath been forward to retract any Act of his entr••n••hing upon them, so he expects an equal tenderness in them to∣wards him, in an u••questionable Privilege and fundamental. His Sub∣jects not to be obliged to obey any Act, Order, or Injunction, to which his Majestie hath ••ot given consent; And therefore he requires that they presume not upon any pretence of Order or Ordinance (to which his Ma∣jestie is not a partie) of the Militia, or any other thing, to do or execute against the Laws; he being to keep the Laws himself, and his Subjects to obey them: and commends unto them his Message of Jan. 20.

To this they give no other Answer, but resolve their former Vote of the Militia.

That to have their Votes questioned or contradicted is an high Breach of Privilege of Parliament; and a Committee appointed to examine where and by whom this Message was counselled, being suspected therefore Favourers of the Rebellion in Ireland▪ and return Message to the King, justifying their last Declaration in eve∣ry particular.

And lest the Parliaments late proceedings should work in the peo∣ple any Jealousie of the Kings inclination to favour Popery; He proclames for putting the Laws in due execution against Papists Recusants at Stamford, March 16.

At York he proclames, that by the last Act of this Parliament concerning Tunnage and Poundage, It is there provided, that no penalty in that Act, or in 1 Iac. shall ensue to any person, unless they refuse to compound for any Goods imported or export∣ed, after notice given of the same by Proclamation, where the said Goods are to be entered. And now declares, that they pay the said Tunnage and Poundage as by the said Acts are expressed, &c. at York, March 24. with which we end our English affairs for this year.

The Earl of Northumberland being Admiral, and indisposed, the King had commanded Sir Iohn Pennington Vice-admiral, to take the charge of this Summer Fleet for the Narrow Seas; and the Parliament as earnestly recommend the Earl of Warwick for that service, inclosing their Message in a piece of Paper, within a Letter to the Lord Keeper Littleton, of the 28. of March, neither by way of Petition, Declaration, or Letter; it being also the first time that ever they took upon them the nomination or recommendation of the chief Sea-commanders; and it adds to the wonder, being that Sir Iohn Pennington was already appointed by the King for that service, and indeed by mediation of the Admirals infirmity, without any fault of exception. And although he were not ap∣pointed, nor (through some accident) might not be able to perform that service, yet others of the same profession are so well known to the King, that the recommendations of that kinde would not be acceptable, and so was the Earl of Warwick absolutely re∣fused.

The Assizes holden at York, and the Gentry, Ministers, and Free-holders being assembled, they most humbly shew to the Kings most excellent Majesty their souls piercing anguish, proceeding from the general Distractions of this Kingdom, somewhat eased by the comfort of his presence, and gracious confidence in the affections of this County. Yet the fellow-feeling of the passi∣onate sorrow of the other parts of this Kingdom, do inforce them (after the tender of their Lives and Fortunes for the safe∣ty of his Person, Crown, and Sovereignty) to follow that sacri∣fice of duty with their Prayer and Petition, which shall not cry for help of particular Distractions, (naming all they could reckon up) since his own Declaration in those particulars renders it an unpar∣donable crime in them to supect his words, sacred before God and man. But emboldened by the Oracle of Truth, that a divided Kingdom cannot stand: and his Majesty best acquainted with the means of prevention of danger, that he will please to declare the Expedients, which may take away all misunderdings betwixt him and his great Council, to whom they will also address their endea∣vours to beget in the King a confidence in their Councils and bles∣sed union, necessary to this perplexed Kingdom. April 5.

To this so humble and hearty Address the King could not hold off their Expectations, but suddenly told Mr. Sheriff and the Gen∣tlemen, that he believed they expected not a present Answer, onely in the general, and upon the sudden he sees, he is not mistaken in the confi∣dence of their affections, nor will he deceive their expectation from him.

He observes their Petition modest, not for themselves in particular, and therefore he puts them in minde of three things for their good.

1. He will reduce their Trained Bands into a lesser number, as they shall shew him the way.

2. To advise him to complie with the engagements for to pay them their Arrears for Billet-money, and had the Water gone to the right Mill, they had not wanted it now.

3. For the Court-judicature of York, of which he assures them he knows no legal dissolution thereof, nothing as yet appears to him directly or indirectly, so that it is but shaken, not dissolved; and if they shall ad∣vise the way of setlement thereof for the Northern parts, they shall not blame him if they fail, and refers them to a day or two for a full answer to all. And assured them,

That as to the Praier of their Petition which included the rest, the one∣ly way of good understandings is, for the Parliament to consider of his Message the twentieth of January last; that the Militia be setled by Act of Parliament, explained in his Answer to their Petition of the six and twentieth of March last, and wishes them in those, to applie to the Parlia∣ment for the good of all, &c. April 7.

The King most intent to reduce Ireland, by his Message to the Houses, offers his own person with these Propositions.

That he intends to raise his Guard by Commissions out of the Counties near Chester, two thousand Foot, and two hundred Horse, to be there armed from his Magazine at Hull, and those to take the Oath of Supre∣macie and Allegiance. The charge of raising and paying them shall be added to the Parliaments undertakings for that War, which if too great, the King will sell, or pawn his Land, or Houses.

Towards which as he hath already writ to Scotland, to quicken their Levies for Ulster, so he wishes the Parliament to hasten theirs for Mun∣ster and Connaught. And hath prepared a Bill by his Atturney con∣cerning the Militia, for the good of all, if received; if refused, he calls God and the World to judg between them.

To this the Parliament never returned answer.

But before the ninth of April some Members of the Commons House had subscribed in pursuance of the Act of Parliament, for the reducing the Rebells of Ireland, and subsigned unto sixty thousand four hundred and fifty pounds, but how, or when paid, I do not finde.

The County of Bucks lend freely six thousand pounds upon the said Act for Ireland, with great thanks to that County, and with promise of very high acceptation, if other Counties will part with their moneys so freely, which shall be repaid them out of the Bill of four hundred thousand pounds to be raised for that service, but how, or when repaid, I finde not.

The Parliament apprehending the Kings desire to lay hold on the Magazine at Hull, pretend great necessity of Arms and Ammuni∣tion

at the Tower of London, being much diminished from thence by Supplies to Ireland, and desire to have it lodged here in more safety than Hull, and with easier transport for Ireland.

And to sweeten it to the peoples apprehension, this Petition is accompanied with a charitable Prayer, that the Reprieve of six Priests in New-gate may be taken off, and they executed.

This Design concerning Hull presaged the cause of much mis∣chief, the ground of war, and the first eminent effects of their power in the Militia; and therefore the King returns to them a sharp Answer.

Rather to have an Account from them, why a ••arison was placed there, without his consent, and Souldiers billeted without Law, and ex∣press words of the Petition of Right, than to be moved to remove his Magazine without reason or judgment. He would know, why his own inclination (on the general rumour of Papists) was not as sufficient for him to put the command upon a person of unquestionable sufficiencie into a Town, and Fort, and Magazine of his own; and yet they to be so bold as to commit it without his consent to Sir John Hotham: but is confident it shall be rendered to him, when he is pleased to require it; and so to dispose of the Magazine as shall be fitting in some proportion, not altogether: and hopes that they will not do here as they have done in the Militia, petition him, and make themselves the Carvers: and tells them, that if they shall att••mpt any thing herein without his consent, he will hold it as an act of violence against him, and so declare it to all the world.

And for the six Priests Reprieve, (the time being out) he leaves them to the execution of the Law. And refers them to Mr. Pym's Speech against the Earl of Strafford, for preservation of the Law, which he wishes them to peruse, and not to infringe it themselves.

The Parliament seeing the King bent to his personal Voyage in∣to Ireland, and to dispose of affairs accordingly, to put him off from that Design, they petition him with Reasons not to enter∣prize such a Journey, for the hazzard of his person, and interruption of the proceedings of the Parliament here. And conclude, that they cannot consent to any Levies, but such as they shall advise and di∣rect; if otherwise raised, they must interpret it to the terrour of the people, and suppress it, and to ref••se to submit to any Commis∣sioners which the King shall chuse, but to govern in his absence by consent of Parliament: so praying him to desist from any such Design; in the end of all they counsel him to come home to them, &c.

It was sufficient, they discovered themselves each to other; for it was not likely the Parliament would trust the King with an Ar∣my; that might be no boldness in them to disswade; but to tell

him how they would govern themselves and his people, not to sub∣mit to any Commissioners in his absence, that was strange indeed.

To which the King replies, That he looks upon them as his great Council with great regard; but yet upon himself as not deprived of his understanding, or divested of any right he had before the Parliament sate: he called them by his Writ and Authoritie, to give him counsel, but did not resign his interest and freedom, nor will subject himself to their determin••tions, nor hath he dissented at any time without his Rea∣sons given with candour and conscience: and however a major part may binde them in matter of opinion, yet he holds himself free to dissent from them.

And as that part of their Petition which pretends to carry reason, doth not satisfie; so the other part (rather reprehension and me∣nace, than advice) cannot stagger him, who is content to expect the event of their undertaking and care therein. And for many other expressions in the Petition he forbears to take notice, or to answer, lest being tempted in a just indignation, to express a greater passion, than he is willing to put on.

But indeed so forward he was in the Design, that the Lords, Ju∣stices, and Council in Ireland, having a hint of his desire, return his Majesty an Answer to his of the thirteenth of April, inclosing his Message to his Parliament there, which Letters and Message being instantly printed, (as it was commanded) they all cast themselves at his feet for this high addition to all former gracious favours, in not sparing the hazzarding of his sacred person for suppression of this hideous Rebellion, rejoycing even in the midst of those calamities, to receive assurance of his princely purpose therein, and hold it agreeable to his resolution and their duty, to acquaint him with the estate of his affairs there, by Letters to Mr. Secretary Nichols, That so he may appear there in that majestie which is sutable to the greatness and wisdom of a mightie King, as God hath appointed him, who bless him with glorie, honour, and eternal happiness.

Dublin, April 23. 1642.

Signed Will. Parsons, Io. Burlace, Justices; and all the Council there.

Notes

• The House of Commons petition for the Militia.
• The Kings Answer.
• Petition to the King concern∣ing the five Members.
• The Queen sent into Hol∣land with the Princess of Orange.
• Eikon Bas. c. 7.
• Petition for the five Mem∣bers.
• Petition to settle the Mi∣litia.
• Lord Digby's Letters inter∣c••pted.
• Propositions for Ireland.
• The Kings Answer con∣cerning the Militia.
• Parliament petition pe∣remptorily for the Militia.
• The Kings Answer.
• Parliaments Declaration to the King of all his faults.
• Parliament denude the King of all power and al∣legeance.
• Proclamation at York con∣cerning Tun∣••age and Poundage.
• The County of York peti∣tion the King.
• His Answer.
• His offers concerning Ireland.
• Hull and its Magazine de∣sired by the Parliament.
• Parliament disswade the King from going into Ireland.