The memoires of the lives and actions of James and William, Dukes of Hamilton and Castleherald, &c. in which an account is given of the rise and progress of the civil wars of Scotland, with other great transactions both in England and Germany, from the year 1625, to the year 1652 : together with many letters, instructions, and other papers, written by King Charles the I : never before published : all drawn out of, or copied from the originals / by Gilbert Burnet ; in seven books.

Anno 1640.

IN Scotland they begun again to prepare for a new War: and the Mi∣nisters this year were likewise very busie, taxing the King, as having violated the late Pacification, because way was not given to all their Acts. Besides, it was preached in the very Pulpits of Edinburgh, that the King had caused burn at London, by the hand of the Hangman, the Articles of the Treaty at Berwick. This was founded on the Censure was put on the Paper spoke of last year, which they gave out as the Conditions of Agreement; and was burned by Order of the Council of England, upon the Declaration made by all the English Lords who were on the Treaty, That no other Articles were agreed upon, beside the Seven above-mentioned: yet this took with the People. Next, they laid on great Taxes for paying the last years Debts, and defraying the Expence this year was like to draw on: and for procuring of Money▪ they fell on a new Device, to cause the Ministers exhort all to lend liberally for the Service of the Cause; which they did with so much Art and Zeal, that the Women came, and brought in their Jewels, Rings, and Plate, however much Money was not got that way, and all was far short of what they needed: therefore divers of the most zealous of the Lords, chiefly the Earls of Rothes and Cassils did give Bonds for great sums of Money, and one Dick a rich Citizen of Edin∣burgh was got to lend them many thousand pounds.

In February the Earl of Sterlin the Secretary died, for whose Place the King made choice of the Marquis his Brother, Lord William, whom he created Earl of Lanerick. It was indeed the Kings choice, for nei∣ther had the Marquis moved it, nor himself pretended to it. The Earl of Lanerick did act so considerable a part in Affairs after this, that methinks their History should be as little divided, as their Coun∣sels and Affections for the Kings Service were: and therefore as Lanerick's Actions come in my way, they shall not be passed over in silence. Being made Secretary, his first care was to inform himself of all that belonged to his Place and Duty, in the discharge whereof he resol∣ved neither to spare labour or industry, that thereby he might supply the defect of his years, which were then but four and twenty.

But to go on with the Series of the Story, the King went on careful∣ly with his Preparations; only the Charge of a Fleet was so great, that he could not think of it this year, but sent out as many Ships as stopt the Scotish Trade. And finding how ill he had been served by his Lieu∣tenant-Generals the former year, and confiding both in the valour, fide∣lity, and conduct of the Earl of Strafford then Lord Lieutenant of Ire∣land, he was called over to be Lieutenant-General in this Expedition: and the Marquis was designed Colonel of the Kings Regiment of Guards.

In Scotland they were gathering Money, bringing in more Arms, and fortifying suspected Places, few resisting them, except Huntley in the North, and Niddisdale in the South; but the later was able to doe little. The Marquis had divers Letters from my Lord Lindesay, which are yet extant, complaining of the Preparations they heard were making against them: That Officers for the Army were already named, Money was gathering; not only Berwick & Carlisle were fortified, but Edinburgh-Castle and Dumbriton also had new men put in them, and English-men were

put in the former; whereupon they were forced to resolve on hazard∣ing the utmost for the Defence of Religion and Liberties, and that all were Contributing very liberally, and knew of good Friends, both in England and abroad; wherefore he assured him, if things went to ex∣tremities, they would not end so well as they did last year. And he besought him that he would prove a good instrument betwixt the King and the Country, protesting, that for his own part nothing next to Religion went so near his Heart as the Kings Service. In end, he conju∣red him not to accept of any new Service, if it went to an open Breach, assuring him he would be ruined if he did; telling him that God had provided a relief for them beyond their expectation. The Marquis carried all these Letters, as he got them, to his Majesty, and by his command wrote the following Answer.

My Lord,

I Received yours of February, wherein you endeavour to let me see the hazard that His Majesty may run, if he take not a peaceable Course with his Subjects of Scotland, which you say, I am reported to be no adviser of; as likewise the unavoidable Ruine that will befall me, in case of my accepting of any Imployment against them.

The Arguments that you use, are the Resolutions of your own People, and the assistance that you will have elsewhere, the particular way you forbear to write; yet you say, that God hath provided it beyond your expectation; and as it was beyond your expectation, so it is still beyond my belief; my Reasons you shall have anon. But first I will say somewhat concerning my self.

Know then, Brother, for a truth, that I heartily pray a Curse may fol∣low him and his Posterity, that doth not endeavour and wish, that these un∣happy Troubles may be composed in a fair and peaceable way. God, who knoweth the Secrets of all mens thoughts, can bear me record, with how much care, pains, and zeal I have endeavoured that; and I promise you, I shall as faithfully continue in that Course, as ever man did, in any Resolution which was with reason grounded in his heart; how few either believe, or know this, I care not, for I have laid my accompt long since, and am resolved on the worst that can befall me. And for your further satisfaction, know, that no∣thing can grieve me more in this World, than to be sent in any Hostile man∣ner against my Friends, Kindred, and Country; where at the best, though I may merit something from His Majesty, (to whose Goodness I owe much besides the Duty of a Subject) yet I shall never be called other than the De∣stroyer of them; and what cause of Sorrow this will be to a kind-hearted Scotsh-man, I leave to you to judge. Therefore I assure you, that if either my Industry, Intreaties, nay Prayers prevail, no such Charge will be impo∣sed on me, my inclinations having always led me in this rather to follow your Advice, and absent my self, in case things come to the worst, than to accept of that Employment; though I must tell you, it may bring along with it His Majesties Displeasure, and so consequently certain Ruine. Yet I do intend to put that to the hazard, and if it happen, I will have the Vanity to say, it will neither prove advantageous to the Country, nor to those in it, who once did me the Honour to esteem me their Friend. To conclude this point, consider, if a Navy come, probably I must be miserable; for what can I gain by it? if employed, a Discontented Life ever hereafter. If the King should impose the Charge on me, and I refuse it, what the better would you be? an abler would be employed in it, and I need never look for His Majesties Favour there∣after,

after, and without that in his Kingdom will I never live. If I had no other Reasons but these, (but I could write you fourty more,) consider if I have not cause to endeavour Peace, and believe me I will do it.

For the Danger that His Majesty will run if he enter into this War, I do acknowledge with you it may be great; but that certain Ruine must follow, I cannot confess: yet I must say, that his Gain will be but small, when he hath g•••• that by Force which is his, or ought to be his already; but what re∣medy? He conceiveth a Kingdom to be lost, and two will be hazarded to regain that, if they continue in the Course they are in.

For the Assistance you mention God hath provided for you elsewhere, that is conceived to be used as an argument to fright us: For from whence can it come?

From a Party in England? Trust not to that, nor give credit to a few Fa∣ctious Spirits, with whom perhaps Correspondence may be kept.

From France? Reason and the knowledge of their Affairs make us con∣fident, that no great matter can come from thence: Reason, for they will not assist the Rebels (for so you will be called) of a King for examples sake; and the necessity of their Affairs, for we know they have enough to do else∣where.

From Sweden? Though they perhaps be willing, yet it is known, they have not men to do it in these Parts.

From Holland? The Body of that Estate hath by their Publick Ministers disallowed your Actions, and hath given assurance that they will be far from either giving Countenance or Assistance to you; what private men may doe by way of Stealth, is little regarded or to be esteemed.

Thus I freely write what is thought of the Assistance you are like to get from abroad, of which Opinion I shall still be, unless you can make it more clearly appear; therefore I will use the old Proverb to you, Beware that your stout Hearts make not your Heads dry a Gutter, and make you neglect the re∣ceiving of His Majesties Pleasure with all thankful Obedience, which, for any thing I know, nay I durst Swear, will be no other than stands with the true Protestant Religion and the Laws of the Kingdom. What pity is it then, that these mistakes should continue? but how much more will it be, that they should encrease to a Bloody War. If all amongst you would rightly consider what true Religion and Piety is, and lay that only before their Eyes, there are yet, not only good hopes, but certain assurances of a peaceable Conclusion of those unhappy Troubles; and as you have advised me, so let me you, (which perhaps may be the last time, that on this Subject I shall write to you) endea∣vour Peace, which if gained, the effusion of much Christian Blood will be saved, the Country preserved, Scotsh-men esteemed Valiant, Iust and Loyal, not only in this Kingdom, but through all Europe, and no man happier than

Your now much troubled, and affectionate Brother, HAMILTON.

POSTSCRIPT.

For Answer to your Postscript, I am not in dispair, but to bring it to a good pass if your own carriage do not marre it; for His Majesty is content to sign the Signature, but i•• is to remain in my hands, and not to be delivered

except your Carriage do deserve it, as well as Crawfords, who knows not as yet, how far His Majesty hath condescended. This Letter is not fit to be long keeped, therefore it will not be amiss it be burnt. Let me hear from you with the first occasion, and thereafter I care not how seldom, if matters come to the worst.

Since the writing of this, the Letter which Rothes wrote to the Chamber∣lain by Dumfermline was this day publickly read at Council-board, His Ma∣jesty being present: it hath produced contrary effects to what (I believe) he expected, for not only doth the Chamberlain swear that there is not one true word in it, but hath beseeched His Maj••sty, that Rothes may be called to an account for the traducing of him in so high a nature, (to use his own words) nay to make him, (if it were in his Power) appear to be a greater Traytor than himself. In a word, the whole Table was much scandalized with the Letter, and no wayes satisfied with the Writer of it, even though it had been all as he expressed.

I profess I have loved Rothes, and am sorry when any misfortune befalls him; and likewise I thought fit to mention this, that you may see what those of this Country will doe, when it comes to an issue; therefore I hope not only he, but the whole Country will take example by this, and grow wise while there is time.

This Letter he carried to the King, and at the end of that Copy he retained, yet extant, His Majesty with his own hand wrote,

I have perused this Letter, and have not only permitted, but com∣manded that it should be sent.

CHARLES R.

Whitehall, 2 March 1639.

This is set down to shew what his Correspondence with his nearest Friends was, and how warranted by His Majesty.

But that the Reader may not be wholly in the dark about the Grounds of this Confidence the Covenanters had, I shall set down what I had from some Persons of great Honour, who were fully informed about it. When the Earls of Dumfermline and Lowdon came to London, a Person of Quality of the English Nation (whose Name is supprest be∣cause of the Infamy of this Action) came to them, and with great ve∣hemence pressed them to engage in a new War, and among other Mo∣tives brought them Engagements in writing from most of the greatest Peers of England, to joyn with them, and assist them when they should come into England with their Army. This did much animate them, for they had not the least doubt of the Papers brought them. But all this was discovered at the Treaty of Rippon to have been a base Forgery: for there the Scotish Lords looking very sullenly on some of the English Lords, as on Persons of no Faith or Truth, the Lord Mandevil came to the Earl of Rothes, and asked the reason of that Change of their Counte∣nance and Behaviour in them, who after some high reflections, at length challenged him and the other Lords of not keeping what they had en∣gaged to them. Upon which that Lord stood amazed, and told him, and so did the other Lords there, that they had sent no such Messages

nor Papers to them, and that they had been abused by the blackest Imposture that ever was. Thus it appeared how dangerous it may be to receive some things that seem to have the highest Probabilities in them easily and upon trust.

In April following the King called a Parliament in England; but they begun with their Grievances, in which they rose to so high a strain, that after twenty days Sitting the King by advice of his Council dis∣solved them: but the hopes of Money from the Parliament failing, the next Course was to try, what could be drawn by Loan; and for good example the Councellours subscribed for near two hundred thousand pounds Sterlin. What the Marquis his part was in this I should have willingly concealed, judging fit that his Story should be as sparing in relating it, as himself was modest in not boasting of it: but Sanderson, and some other malicious or ignorant Pens, who say, That he pretended Poverty, and subscribed for none, force me to free him of that Calumny, by a true Relation of what his Duty to the King cost him at this time. He subscribed for 10000 l. Sterlin, and laid down Eight thousand of it pre∣sently in Gold: likewise in August following at York he again subscri∣bed, and laid down Six thousand and three hundred pounds, for both which he had Tallies struck. Besides this, when he served as Commissi∣oner in Scotland in the year 1638. he got no Payments made him; Ten thousand pounds Sterlin was allowed him, of which he had not received a farthing: and besides the great expence he was at in that Service, he laid that year out of his own Money about 5000 l. Ster∣lin on the Kings account. And thus in the space of four years he ad∣vanced to the King near Thirty thousand pounds Sterlin, and this was in a time when the advantages he had by his Places and Pensions were (through the necessity of the Kings affairs) dried up.

But since I was forced to say this, I must not conceal His Majesty who now reigns, His Justice and Goodness to his Heiress, in repaying the sum contained in those Tallies, together with the other Royal ef∣fects of His Favour, which they have felt in the repayment of the Scotsh Debt.

This is said once for all, and all this was little reckoned of by him, who was ready to hazard both Life and Fortune for His Majesties Ser∣vice, acknowledging that it was Just, since he and his Ancestors owed so much to the King and his Progenitours bounty, that all he had should be spent in his Service.

The Covenanters in Scotland were beginning to look to themselves, and fearing Ruthwen, who was in the Castle of Edinburgh, they requi∣red him to obey their Orders: but he told them, he had his Trust from the King, and would acknowledge no Commands but his; whereup∣on they blockt him up. He might easily have done them much Mis∣chief, but his Orders were to hold himself most on the Defensive, and to amuse them, but not to break out to open Hostilities, within which limits he contained himself.

The second of Iune came, which was the day the Parliament was to Set: but the King had sent down an Order to the Justice-Clerk for proroguing it, and he was to carry along with him in this Affair the assistance of the Kings Advocate, who was at this time confined to his House in Fife by the King, upon pretence of some petty maleversation in his Office, but really because of his adhering to the Covenanters too

much. The Kings Advocate was glad both of being delivered from that Disgrace, and for being honoured with the Employment. But to clear the Method in which he intended to proceed to make this Pro∣rogation legal, I must look back a little; when Traquair got his Com∣mission under the Broad-Seal, there was another Commission given un∣der the quarter-Seal to the Lord Elphinstown, the Lord Napier, the Kings Advocate, and the Justice-Clerk; these or three of them were impow∣red to act as Commissioners in Traquair's absence, and upon his Orders. Therefore the Kings Advocate judged it needless to fill up a Blank that was sent down to be made use of if need were, to make the Proroga∣tion Legal; but resolved to require one of the other two, to concur with the Justice-Clerk and himself in the Prorogation, which was to be done after the Parliament was Fenced; therefore they provided the persons necessary for Fencing of it, (a Ceremony they use in the be∣ginning of a Session) who are the Constable, the Marshal, the Provost of Edinburgh, the Sheriff of Lowthian, and a Doomster; and if any of these be absent, the King must name others for their Service that day. So the Members of Parliament being met, the Kings Advocate required the Lord Elphinstown, who was first in the Commission, to go up with them to the Throne, for executing the Kings Commands; who having read the Commission, found their Power was only to act by the Commissioners Order, and therefore called for Traquair's War∣rant: the Kings Advocate answered, That as when the King is present a Commissioners Power of it self expires, so also when his Warrant is produced, there is no need of one from his Commissioner. But Elphin∣stown stood on the Letter of the Commission, and so found, he was not legally warranted to doe it. That same was the Lord Napier's Answer, who was also of the Commission, and so the Kings Advocate and the Ju∣stice-Clerk could doe nothing but take Instruments. Many imputed this to the Kings Advocat's Jugling; but he vindicated himself solemn∣ly▪ which is extant under his Hand, with a long Narrative of this whole Affair sent up by him to the King. However the effects of this Errour were great; for the Members voted themselves to be in a Parliamentary Capacity, as being summoned by the King at first, and again adjourned to this day: whereupon they proceeded to the Enacting of what they had designed the former Year; and their Acts, though of great import∣ance, yet meeting no opposition were quickly dispatched: all which with a Prologue and Epilogue of two high Declarations were sent in the Packet to the Earl of Lanerick, with the following Letter written by a Committee of Lords they had left to sit at Edinburgh.

Right Honourable,

IT is not unknown to your Lordship with what difficulties this Kingdom hath wrestled this time past, in asserting their Religion and Liberties against the dealings of bad Instruments with His Majesty to the contrary. The Means which they have used have been no other, but such as they humbly pe∣titioned and obtained from His Majesty, a Free National Assembly and Par∣liament. The Assembly went on in a fair way, and was closed with the liking and full consent of His Majesties Commissioner; but the Parliament indicted by His Majesty was prorogated, till the Reasons of the Demands of the Estates were rendred to His Majesty: which having done by their Commissioners, they kept the second of June (the day appointed by His Majesty) for the sitting of

the Parliament. And after diligent Inquiry, hearing nothing from His Ma∣jesty nor His Commissioner, neither by their own Commissioners, or any other sent from His Majesty, which might hinder the Parliament to proceed to the settling of their Religion and Liberties, after mature Deliberation and long waiting for some signification of His Majesties Pleasure, they have all with one consent resolved upon certain Acts, which they have judged to be most necessa∣ry and conducible for His Majesties Honour and the Peace of the Kingdom, so far endangered by Delays: and have committed to us the Trust to shew you so much; and withall to send a just Copy of the Acts, that by your Lord∣ship (His Majesties principal Secretary for Scotland) they may be presented to His Majesty. The Declaration prefix'd to the particular Acts, and the Pe∣tition in the end, contain so full Expressions of the Warrants of the Proceed∣ings of the Estates, and of their humbly continued Desires, that no word needs to be added by us. We do therefore in their Name (according to the Trust committed to us) desire your Lordship (all other ways of Information being stopt) with the presenting of these Acts of Parliament, to represent unto His Majesty, against all Suspicions, Suggestions, and Tentations to the contrary, the constant Love and Loyalty of this Kingdom unto His Majesties Royal Au∣thority and Person, as their Native King and kindly Monarch; and that they are seeking nothing but the establishing of their Religion and Liberties under His Majesties Government, that they may still be a free Kingdom to doe His Majesty all the Honour and Service that becometh humble Subjects: that their Extremity is greater through the Hostility and Violence threatned by Arms, and already done to them in their Persons and Goods, by Castles within, and Ships without the Kingdom, than they can longer endure: and that as His Majesty loveth His Own Honour, and the Well of this His Ancient Kingdom, speedy course may be taken for their relief and quie••ness; and that if this their faithful Remonstrance (which as the great Council of the Kingdom they found themselves bound to make at this time for their Exoneration) be passed over in silence, or answered with delays, they must prepare and provide for their own Deliverance and Safety. We are very hopeful that your Lordship (as a good Patriot, and according to the Obligement of your Place) will not be de∣ficient in that Duty for your Native Country, and send us a speedy Answer, as we shall in every Duty be careful at all occasions to shew our selves

Your Lordships humble Servants: Signed,

• Balmerino
• Burghly
• Napier
• Thomas Hop
• J. Murray
• J. Hamilton
• G. Dundas
• J. Smith
• Ed. Eggar
• Tho. Paterson
• Ja. Sword

Edinburgh, 17 June, 1640.

The Covenanters did also sign a Bond among themselves for adhering to these Acts, and prosecuting of those who had been the Incendiaries from the beginning of the these Stirs, the Marquis and Traquair being the chief of them.

But all this gave great Offence at Court, the King looking upon it as a bolder Attempt than any yet made, which struck at the root of His Authority, and overturned the Fundamental Laws of Scotland; and therfore he judged himself bound to repair this Affront with the Sword

God had put in his Hands. At this time the Marquis got the following Memorial sent him from my Lord Lowdon out of the Tower of London, written all with Lowdon's Hand, and yet ext••nt.

Memorandum for the Lord Lowndon,

TO speak to the Marquis of Hamilton, that according to that Interest of Bloud, and the Confidence which the Lord Lowdon reposeth in him, his Lordship may be pleased to intercede seriously with the King, that His Ma∣jesty may be Graciously pleased to consider of the Petitions and Informations which have been tendered to His Majesty from the Lord Lowdon, and for him from Scotland, which do abundantly clear his Innocency concerning that French Letter, in respect of the time and occasion of writing that Letter, the Letter it self being onely for Mediation and Intercession, as is clear by the In∣structions yet extant, to have been sent with that Letter, which are the true Com∣mentary of the Letter. The Letter it self was never sent nor used, but re∣jected, and no other Letter sent. It was written long before the Pacification, wherein His Majesty was Graciously pleased to pass all preceding Deeds in Ob∣livion.

The Lord Lowdon came hither upon His Majesties Own Warrant, which is sufficient for his Indempnity and Return, till he be exonered of his Imploy∣ment. He came from the Parliament with Commission from them to shew His Majesty the Reasons of their Demands, trusting confidently in His Majesties Iustice and Goodness, and with most Loyal Affection and Ardent Desires to have given His Majesty satisfaction, and to have returned with no less Fideli∣ty and Forwardness in carrying and pressing His Majesties Royal and Iust Commands, during which time he could expect nothing less than that he would be called in question for a prior Deed; all which are most manifest by the Pe∣titions and Informations presented to His Sacred Majesty.

Therefore I most humbly beseech, that His Majesty may be Graciously plea∣sed to consider of the former Petitions and true Informations, which being pondered in the Balance of His Majesties Righteous Iudgment, I am most confident my Innocency will appear clearly to His Majesty, and that I will find such a speedy delivery, as may give demonstration to the World of His Majesties Iustice and Goodness, and as may not onely from the Conscience of my Duty, but likewise from the sense of His Royal Benignity, encourage me ever to contribute my best Endeavours for furthering of His Maje∣sties Service.

And if His Majesty be not fully satisfied with my humble Petitions and true Informations of my Innocency and Loyalty, but doth notwithstanding thereof harbour any opinion of my Disloyalty, or casting off my dutiful Obe∣dience and Subjection to His Majesty, or offering Subjection to any other King or Potentate in the World, I am content to undergo the most exact Trial which is agreeable to the Laws of that Kingdom by which onely I ought to be judged, rather than lie under such a heavy Imputation, which to me (who am conscious of my own Innocency, and of my most tender and humble Duty towards His Majesty,) is more grievous than my Sufferings, which can onely prejudice and hurt me and my private Estate, but can no ways conduce for advancing of His Majesties Service, but rather be a hin∣derance to the Accommodation of Affairs; whereas my Liberty or lawful Trial will serve for the Illustration of His Majesties Iustice to the World, and will make His Subjects without fear of danger to tender their humble Suits and Remonstrances at the Throne of His Royal Iustice.

Upon this the Marquis pressed the King much for my Lord Low∣don's Enlargement, since the Covenanters made great noise with it in all their Complaints, and pretended, that they durst send up no more Commissioners; and therefore they sent their Acts in the Packet.

He did also shew His Majesty, that he knew by the Lieutenant of the Tower that Lowdon was very fearful: wherefore he desired permission from the King to try what this Fear could draw from him, and to see if his Enlargement, with the hopes of a Noble Reward, could engage him to the Kings Service; which (if obtained) might prove of great advan∣tage; since the Irritations he had received would make his Advices less suspected in Scotland. His Majesty approving this, he treated with Low∣don, and found him abundantly pliant: and so on the 26^th of Iune he agreed with him on these Terms, which he got under Lowdon's Hand, in two Papers yet extant.

[ I] THE Lord Lowdon doth promise to contribute his faithful and ut∣termost Endeavours for His Majesties Service, and furthering of a hap∣py Peace, and shall with all possible diligence and care go about the same, and shall labour that His Majesties Subjects of Scotland may in all humility peti∣tion, that His Majesty may be Graciously pleased to authorize a Commissio∣ner with full Power from His Majesty to establish the Religion and Liberty of that His Majesties Native and Ancient Kingdom according to the Articles of Pacification, and that by a new Convening or Session of the Parliament, without cohesion or dependence on what hath been done by themselves without His Majesties Presence, or of a Commissioner to represent His Majesties Royal Person and Power.

[ II] That if there be not an Army already convened in Scotland in a Body, he shall endeavour that they shall not convene, nor come together during the time of Treaty, in hope of Accommodation; and if they be already convened in a Body before his return, he will labour that they may dissolve and return to their several Shires, or dispose so of them, that they remain not in one Body, as may best evince that they intend not to come into England; but may carry themselves in that respective way, as may best testifie their Duty to His Majesty, and their Desires of Peace.

[ III] That if General Ruthwen shall happen to become their Prisoner, they may (as a testimony of their desire to shun every thing which may provoke His Ma∣jesties displeasure) preserve him, and that the Lord Lowdon will shew how far he is engaged for his Safety.

[ IV] That when Affairs shall be brought to a Treaty in Parliament, and that His Majesty shall be Graciously pleased to settle the Religion and Liberties of the Kingdom according to the Articles of Pacification, he will endeavour that the Kings Authority shall not be entrenched upon, nor diminished, that they may give a real demonstration to the World, how tender and careful they are, that His Majesties Royal Power may be preserved both in Church and State.

[ V] That what is done or imparted to the Lord Lowdon concerning His Ma∣jesties Pleasure shall be kept secret, and not revealed to any here, further than His Majesty shall think expedient.

That the Lord Lowdon shall (as soon as conveniently he can) return an ac∣count of his Diligence.

There was given with this another Paper, which follows.

Memorandum of what passed betwixt the Marquis of Hamilton and me, 26 Iune 1640.

BEcause no great matters can be well effectuated without Trust, Fidelity, [ I] and Secrecy; therefore it is fit that we swear Fidelity and Secrecy to others, and that I shall faithfully contribute my best Endeavours for perfor∣mance of what I undertake; and that my Lord Marquis doe the like to me.

Our desires and designs do tend mainly for Preservation of Religion, Laws, [ II] and Liberties of the Kingdom, the Kings Honour, and of His Royal Authority, and for establishing of a happy Peace, and preventing of Wars; and we are to advise and resolve upon such ways and means as may best conduce for these ends.

If (after using of our utmost Endeavours) it be not Gods will that we [ III] may be so happy as to obtain such a Peace in haste, as may content the King and satisfie his Subjects, till differences draw to a greater height, and begin∣ning of Wars, to resolve what is fit to be done in case of such an Extremity, for attaining a wished Peace, and to condescend what course we shall take for keeping of Correspondence.

If my Endeavours and Service (which doubtless will put me to a great deal of expence and pains) shall prove useful for His Majesties Service and Ho∣nour, and the Good of the Kingdom, which are inseparable, the Marquis will intercede really, and imploy his best Endeavours with the King, to acknow∣ledge and recompence the Lord Lowdon's Travels and Service, in such man∣ner as a Gracious King and Master should doe to a diligent and faithful Servant.

Upon this Lowdon was enlarged next day, and permitted to go down to Scotland; but those who did not know the Secret of this, thought the King had weakened himself much, by letting go an Hostage of such importance: and this gave new Suspicions of the Marquis his Tamper∣ings with the Covenanters.

His Majesty commanded the Earl of Lanerick to write, by the Lord Lowdon, the following Answer to the Letter sent up by the Lords of Scot∣land, with the Acts they had lately passed.

My Lords,

BY my former of the Date the 23^th of June, His Majesty was pleased to promise by me, to let you know within few days His further Pleasure con∣cerning those Proceedings and Desires of the Noblemen, and Barons, and Bur∣gesses, which you sent me to be presented to His Majesty; whereupon he hath now commanded me to tell you, that the not proroguing of the Parliament in a Legal and Formal way, was not for want of clear Instructions, and of full and ample Power from His Majesty, He having fully signified His Pleasure to those whom He did entrust with the executing thereof, not thinking it fit to im∣ploy other Servants of greater Eminence, by reason of the disorders and ini∣quities of the Times: and as forced by the importance of his other great and weighty Affairs, He was necessitated to prorogue the Parliament for some few days, so did He most really intend to perform at the time prefixed whatsoever He had promised by the Act of Pacification. But neither can the neglect of His Servants, (if any be) nor those other Reasons alledged by the foresaid Noble∣men,

Barons, and Burgesses, in their Declaration for their Sitting, satisfie His Majesty for their proceeding in a Parliamentary way; since by the Duty and Allegeance of Subjects, they are bound to acknowledge in a most special man∣ner His Transcendent Power in Parliaments; and if Subjects there do assume the Power of Making Laws, and of Rescinding those already made, what Act can be done more derogatory to that Regal Power and Authority we are all sworn to maintain? Therefore His Majesty conceives, they cannot in reason expect He can interpose His Royal Authority to these, or any other Acts what∣soever, whereto neither He in His own Royal Person, nor by His Commissi∣oner did assist. Yet such is His Majesties Clemency, that when they shall take such an Humble and Dutiful way as may witness, that they are as careful and tender of His Majesties Royal Power, as they are desirous of His Ap∣probation, then shall it be time for them to expect such a Gracious and Iust Answer, as may testifie His Majesties Fatherly Compassion of that His Na∣tive Kingdom, and his Pious and Princely care of performing whatsoever is necessary for establishing their Religion and Laws. So thus having imparted unto you all that was enjoyned me by His Majesty, I shall say no more from my self, but I am

Your Lordships humble Servant, LANERICK.

Whitehall 27^th of June, 1640.

My Lord Lowdon found matters at so great a height, that he was able to do little more than give intelligence, that he delivered the Let∣ter to the Lords at Edinburgh, who returned to it the following An∣swer.

My Lord,

WE received your Lordships Letter of the 27^th of June from the Lord Lowdon, whose relief out of Prison, gives us occasion (before we an∣swer your Lordships Letter) to acknowledge the same as an act of His Maje∣sties Royal Iustice and Goodness, although the pretended cause of his Impri∣sonment was but a malicious Calumny of the Enemies of the Kings Honour and our Peace, forged to engage both His Majesties Kingdoms in a National War. As we cannot but regrate, that any neglect of His Majesties Officers, or absence of His Commissioner, whose presence we did both desire and expect, should hinder the interposing of His Royal Authority to these Acts of Parlia∣ment, which were found most necessary for establishing Religion and the Peace of this Kingdom, and which according to the Acts of Pacification, His Ma∣jesty was graciously pleased to promise; so we have and shall still endeavour to give demonstration of that tender Respect we have of His Majesties Ho∣nour and Royal Power. And whereas your Lordships Letter doth imply, that we should take some other way for the more easie obtaining His Majesties Ap∣probation, which also by several reasons hath been most instantly pressed by the Lord Lowdon; yet we conceive that Parliamentary way, which was taken by the Estates convened by His Majesties Special Warrant, to have been most Legal and necessary, and no ways derogatory to His Majesties Power in Par∣liament, nor contrary to the Duty of good Subjects, who are warranted by the Articles of Pacification, under His Majesties Hand, to determine all Civil questions, ratifie the Conclusions of the Assembly, and remove the present Di∣stractions of this Kingdom, as is more abundantly demonstrated by their De∣claration

in Parliament thereabout. So that we dare not take any other Course, which may entrench upon their Parliamentary Power, or Proceed∣ings; nor will we (being so few in number appointed by them to stay here) presume of our selves, in a matter of so great moment, to return a more full and particular Answer, till there be a more frequent Meeting of those appoin∣ted by Parliament, which will be shortly; and then your Lordship shall be acquainted, that you may shew His Majesty their Resolutions and humble De∣sires, and we shall remain

Your Lordships affectionate Friends and Servants. Signed,

• Lindsay.
• Balmerino.
• Burghly.
• Napier.
• J. Murray.
• G. Dundas.
• Ja. Sword.
• J. Forbes.
• Ed. Eggar.

Edinburgh 7^th of July, 1640.

They went on with their Preparations, and caused all to bring in the tenth Peny of their Rents, to make this War look like a Sacred one, since carried on by the Tithes: and ordered their Forces to be drawn together. Mean while the King went on at as good a pace as he could, and went from London in the end of Iuly, to make his Ren∣dezvous at York. The Earl of Strafford staid some time behind, partly for Sickness, partly to see what Money could be borrowed from Lon∣don; and at this time there were great and high Misunderstandings be∣tween him and Sir Henry Vane, both making their Complaints to the Marquis by their Letters. Strafford was also to bring an Army out of Ireland, upon the West of Scotland, whereupon they in Scotland drew their Forces together in the end of August, and resolved to march into England, and make that the Seat of the War, pretending (as by their Declaration then emitted doth appear) that their Trade was block't up by English Ships; that in England and Ireland, Scotishmen were procee∣ded against for taking the Covenant, and the English Council had vo∣ted a War with them: wherefore, they said, they were constrained to go into England with their Petitions, declaring they came not to in∣vade England, but to avert the Invasion of their Country, that was designed; adding, that they should be so far from doing prejudice to any in England, that severe Justice should be executed upon those who took any thing in England without payment. And about this time Ruthwen, being for many months block't up in the Castle of Edinburgh, (so that Victuals and Ammunition were spent, his Water also failed, and most of his Souldiers died,) was forced to Capitulate, and render up the Castle of the Covenanters.

But not to stand too long on matters universally known, as soon as they entred England, the King by Proclamation declared them Traytors on the 22^th of August: yet they went on, and when they came to the Ford of Tine at Newburn, some miles above Newcastle, they found it guarded by a Body of Foot, who had raised a Brest-work near the Ri∣ver, and lay there to obstruct their passage. Yet no sooner did the Scot∣tish Cannon begin to play, but they, struck with Fear, threw down their Arms and run away; whereupon the General passed over with some

Troops, and they were encountred by three Troops, commanded by Wilmot, whom after a little Dispute they routed: their Officers were taken Prisoners, and some were killed. And after this the whole Body of the English Army, that lay there, marched to Newcastle, which con∣sisted of 2000 Horse, and 9000 Foot: the Disorder among them was the greater, because the Lord Conway, who Commanded, had gone that day from the Camp to Dine at a place about a miles distance called Stella. The Scots continued passing till it was late, and lay in the Fields all night: next day they marched towards New-Castle, and were beginning to be in some strait; for they had driven as many Cattle out of Scotland with them, as served hitherto for their Provision, and were resolved to take nothing in England but for payment, which would have been a vast charge to them. They purposed therefore to summon New-Castle, and in case it yielded not, to threaten to burn all the Coaleries which lay on the South-side; though they designed not the executing of that, for fear of making the Rupture beyond remedy. But as they were marching, doubtful what Course to take, they met a Scotchman, who had been a prisoner at Durham; he told them, how that morning by six a Clock all the English Forces had marched throw Durham in great haste; whereupon they went forward, and found New-Castle open to them, and there they took up their Quarters, and found great Magazins of Provision, which the King had laid in for his Army, and by those they maintained their Army a great while.

This Loss and Affront went very near the Kings Heart, who begun to fear this years Success, as much as he had done the last.

After this the Lords of the Covenant wrote the following Letter to the Earl of Lanerick by one Cathcart.

Noble Lord,

AS we have ever professed and declared, as well by our Words as Actions, that the Grounds of our Desires are, and ever shall be the redress of Wrongs and reparations of our Losses, and that we will never leave off in all humility to Supplicate His Majesty for the same, so this hath moved us now, be∣ing come this length, yet again humbly ••o Petition His Majesty to take our Case to Consideration, and grant our Desires. We are debarred from sending or carrying our Supplications in the ordinary way, which makes us have our Ad∣dress to your Lordship, Intreating your Lordship in our Names to present this our Petition herein inclosed to His Majesty, and in all humility to beg an An∣swer thereunto, to be sent with the Bearer to us, who shall ever endeavour to approve our selves His Majesties Loyal Subjects, and most unwilling to shed any Christian Blood, far less the English; whereof we have given very good prooff by our bygone Carriage to every one who hath with Violence opposed us, yea, even to those who entred in Blood with us, and were taken Prisoners, whom we have let go with Meat and Money, notwithstanding that all those of ours, who did but deboar'd from their Quarters, are miserably massacred by these whom we can tearm no otherwise than Cut-throats. Our behaviour to these in New-Castle can witness our Intention, which is to live at peace with all, and rather to suffer then to offend. We bought all with our money, and they have extortioned us to the triple value: the Panick fear made most of them leave the Town, and stop their own Trade; but we have studied, to solve their doubts. As all our Actions shall ever tend to that which is Iust and

Right, so we could wish, they were interpreted to a true sense; and whatever may be the event of business, we hope the blame shall not lie upon

Your Lordships affectionate Friends to serve you. Signed,

• Rothes,
• Cassilis,
• Dumferline,
• Lindsay,
• Lowdon,
• Napier,
• Tho. Hope,
• W. Richarton,
• J. Swith,
• P. Hepburn,
• D. Hoom,
• Keir,
• Ja. Sword,
• J. Rutherford.

Leager beside New-Castle, ^2d. September, 1640.

POSTSCRIPT.

We intreat Your Lordship to let the Bearer have a Pass for his safe Return to us.

The Petition inclosed was presented by him to His Majesty, which follows.

To the Kings Most Excellent MAJESTY, The Humble Petition of the Commissioners of the late Parliament, and others of His Majesties Loyal Subjects of the Kingdom of Scotland.

Humbly Sheweth,

THat Whereas after our many Sufferings the time past, extreme necessity hath constrained us for our Relief, and obtaining our Humble and Iust Desires, to come into England, where according to our Intentions formerly de∣clared, we have in all our Iourney lived upon our own Means and Victuals, and Goods brought a long with us, and neither troubling the Peace of the King∣dom, nor harming any of Your Majesties Subjects of whatsoever quality in their Persons or Goods, but have carried our selves in a most peaceable man∣ner, till we were pressed by strength of Arms, to put such Forces out of the way, as did without our deserving, and (as some of them have at the point of death confessed) against their own Consciences, opposed our peaceable passage at New-burn on Tine, and have brought their Blood upon their own Heads, against our purposes and desires expressed in our Letters, sent unto them at New-Castle, for preventing the like, or greater Inconveniences. And that we may without further opposition come into Your Majesties Presence, for obtaining from Your Majesties Iustice and Goodness satisfaction to our just Demands, we Your Majesties most Humble and Loyal Subjects, do still insist in that sub∣miss way of Petitioning, which we have keeped since the beginning, and from which no provocation of Your Majesties Enemies and ours, no adversity that we have before sustained, nor prosperous success can befall us, shall be able to divert our minds.

Most humbly intreating, That Your Majesty would in the depth of Your Royal Wisdom, consider at last our pressing Grievances, provide for the Re∣pairing

of our wrongs and losses, and with the advice and consent of the E∣states of the Kingdom of England convened in Parliament, settle a firm and durable Peace, against all Invasion by Sea or Land, that we may with chearfulness of heart pay unto Your Majesty, as our Native King, all Duty and Obedience that can be expected from Loyal Subjects, and that (against the many and great Evils, which at this time threaten both Kingdoms, whereat all Your Majesties good and loving Subjects tremble to think, and which we beseech God Almighty in mercy timeously to avert) Your Majesties Throne may be established in the midst of us, in Religion and Righteous∣ness; and Your Majesties Gracious Answer we humbly desire, and earnestly wait for.

The King having considered their Petition, commanded my Lord Lanerick to write the following Answer, Dated at His Majesties Court at York the 5 ^th of September, 1640.

HIS Majesty hath seen and considered this Petition, and is Graciously pleased to return this Answer by me, that he finds it in such general terms, that till you express the Particulars of your Desires, His Majesty can give no direct Answer; therefore His Majesty requires, that you set downthe Particulars of your Demands with expedition, he having been always willing to hear and redress the Grievances of His People: and for the more mature Deliberation of these great Affairs, His Majesty hath already given out Sum∣mons for the Meeting of the Peers of the Kingdom in the City of York up∣on the 24^th of this Month, that so with the advice of the Peers you may re∣ceive such Answer to your Petition, as shall most tend to His Honour, and the Peace and Wellfare of His Dominions. And in the mean time (if Peace be that you desire, as you pretend) He expects, and by these His Majesty commands, that you advance no further with your Army to these parts; which is the only means that is left for the present to preserve Peace betwixt the two Nations, and to bring these unhappy Differences to a Reconciliation, which none is more desirous of than His most Sacred Majesty.

Signed, LANERICK.

With which he wrote this Cover.

My Lords,

ACcording to your Desires, I presented unto His Majesty in your names the Petition you sent me; whereupon His Majesty hath been Graciously pleased to command me to make this reference, which you shall receive herein inclosed, joined unto the Petition.

My Lords, by this you may see His Majesty is, as he ever was, willing to hear and redress the Grievances of His Subjects; and I pray God, you may take those Courses that may not too much incroach on the Goodness of so Gracious a Soveraign. This shall be the earnest Prayer of

Your Lordships Servant, LANERICK.

York, 5^th Sept. 1640.

To this they returned the Answer that follows, which was sent by Sir Iames Mercer.

Right Honourable,

AS nothing in Earth is more desired of us than His Majesties favour, so doth nothing delight us more than that His Majesty beginneth again to hear∣ken to our Humble Desires, wherein we trust nothing shall be found but what may serve for His Majesties Honour, and for the Peace of His Dominions. The Particulars we would have expressed, but that they are contained in the Con∣clusions of the late Parliament, and our Printed Declarations, which were sent to your Lordship; but in case the Papers be not by your Lordship, we now sum∣marily repeat them.

That His Majesty would be Graciously pleased to command, that the last Acts of Parliament may be published in his Highness's Name, as our Sove∣raign Lord, with the Estates of Parliament convened by His Majesties Authou∣rity; Next, That the Castle of Edinburgh and other strengths of the King∣dom of Scotland, may according to the first foundation, be furnished and used for our Defence and Security; Thirdly, That our Countrymen in his Ma∣jesties Dominions of England and Ireland may be free from Censure for sub∣scribing the Covenant, and be no more pressed with Oaths and Subscriptions unwarranted by our Laws, and contrary to their National Oath and Covenant approved by His Majesty; Fourthly, That the Common Incendiaries, who have been the Authors of this Combustion in His Majesties Dominions, may receive their Iust Censure; Fifthly, That our Ships and our Goods, with all the Damage thereof, may be restored; Sixthly, That the Wrongs, Losses, and Charges, which at this time we have sustained, may be repayed; Seventhly, That the Declarations made against us as Traytors may be recalled, and in end, by advice and consent of the Estates of England convened in Parliament, His Majesty may be pleased to remove the Garisons from the Borders, and any Im∣pediment that may stop free Trade, and with their advice may condescend to all Particulars, which may establish a stable and well-grounded Peace, for enjoying of our Religion and Liberties, against all fears of molestation and undoing from year to year, as our Adversaries shall take the advantage. This Royal testimony of His Majesties Iustice and Goodness, we would esteem to be doubled upon us, were it speedily bestowed, and therefore must crave leave to regrate, that His Majesties Pleasure concerning the Meeting of the Peers the 24 ^th of this Instant, will make the time long ere the Parliament be convened, which is conceived to be the only mean of settling both Nations in a firm Peace, and which we desire may be seriously represented to His Majesties Roy∣al thoughts; the more this time is abridged, the more able will we be to obey His Majesties Prohibition of not advancing with our Arms, Our Actions, and whole comportment since the beginning of these Commotions, and especially of late since our coming into England, are Real Declarations of our love, and desire of Peace: nothing but invincible necessity hath brought us from our Country to this Place, no other thing shall draw us beyond the limits appointed by His Majesty; which we trust His Majesty will consider of, and wherein we hope your Lordship will labour to be a profitable Instrument, for the Kings Honour, the Good of your Country, and of

Your Lordships humble Servants, and affectionate Friends,

• A. Lesly,
• Rothes,
• Cassils,
• Montrose
• Dumfermline,
• Lindsay,
• Lowdon,
• Napier,
• Tho. Hope,
• W. Rickarto••n,
• J. Smith,
• P. Hepbu••••,
• D. Home,
• Keir,
• Ja. Sword.

Scots-Leager at New-Castle, Sept. 8^th 1640.

On the 24^th of September, the Peers of England having met, the King by their Advice commanded his Secretary to write the following Letter.

My Lords,

ACcording to His Majesties appointment, the most part of the Peers of this Kingdom of England met here at York this day, where His Majesty did communicate unto them your Desires and Petitions; and because you do so earnestly press for a speedy Answer, His Majesty, with Advice of the Peers, hath nominated such a number of them for a Conference with you upon Tuesday at Northallerton, whose Names are underwritten. But withall if you shall think the time too short, and that with conveniency you cannot come so soon thither, if betwixt this and Sunday you do acquaint His Majesty there∣with, he will take Order for the delay thereof, for one day or two.

And that you may without all fear or danger of Detention, send such Persons unto the said Conference as you shall think most fit, if betwixt this and Sun∣day you send hither the Names of these you mean to imploy, His Majesty will with all possible diligence return a safe conduct under his own Royal Hand, for them and their necessary Servants.

His Majesty hath likewise commanded me to let you know, that upon your relieving of such Officers, and others of His Subjects, as are detained by you, he will return all such of yours as are his Prisoners, either here or at Berwick; and hereafter resolves, that fair Quarters should be kept betwixt both Armies. Thus having imparted His Majesties Pleasure, I continue

Your Lordships Servant, LANERICK.

York, 24 ^th of September, 1640.

And now the King was in a great strait what to resolve on. Most of all the Peers advised a Settlement with Scotland, and a Parliament in En∣gland: Strafford's Advice was more severe, and the Marquis pressed a Pacification. But though their Opinions varied, yet their Friendship continued, since both had the same designs for the Kings Honour and Service. A recruit of Money (which was beginning to run low) was not to be hoped without a Parliament, and their late experience told, on how uneasie terms that was to be had. Earl Lowdon also assured the Marquis by his Letters, that the Covenanters were well armed, well commanded, and very resolute, nor did they doubt of a strong Party in England; and therefore shewed, how dangerous it would prove to His Majesties Affairs, if a Treaty should not presently follow. The Marquis, little regarding how ill these Counsels would be represented by others, used all his Industry to prevail with the King for a Pacification on any terms; since none could be so bad, as the hazard the King was like to run, if matters continued so broken: for it was now apparent, how faintly His Majesties Forces did serve him, and with how much re∣solution the Scotish Armies proceeded; neither were they without fears in their own Army, and that many of the Peers, and People of England, would have assisted the Scots, if matters had run to extremities.

But at that time a passage fell out, which drew after it a tract of great Troubles on the Marquis. The Earl of Montrose had in Iuly that year, procured a Meeting of some Noblemen at Cumbermwald, the Earl of

Wigtons house, where there was a Bond signed by them of adherence to one another in pursuance of the Covenant; and from New-Castle he con∣tinued to keep Correspondence with His Majesty, notwithstanding an Act that had passed in the Committee, that none should under pain of Death write any Letters to the Court, but such as were seen and allow∣ed of by at least three of the Committee. But this Correspondence of my Lord Montrose came to the knowledge of the Covenanters, and there were ill Instruments who suggested, that this Advertisement must have been given by the Marquis, which being too easily believed, occasioned a Breach betwixt them that could never be made up. And Sanderson hath had the Impudence not only to fasten this on him, but as if there had not been Imputation enough in it, he adds that the Marquis had in the night picked His Majesties Pockets for his Letters. Indeed he needed not take such Courses, had he been capable of that Treachery; for the Kings Confidence in him was such, that he delivered all the Letters he had from Scotland to his keeping, and if he had designed such a thing upon Montrose it was in his Power to have done it long before: for in Octo∣ber and December of the former year, Montrose had writ much in the same strain to the King; which Letters the King gave him, and are yet extant, but were never heard off, till now that the Writer gives this ac∣count of them. But the way how that Letter was discovered was this: the Covenanters sent Sir Iames Mercer to York, with their Letters to my Lord Lanerick of September the 14^th. with whom my Lord Montrose sent his Servant with Letters to some of his Friends at Court; and these Letters had been shown to the Committee: but as he sealed them up, he put within one to Sir Richard Grahame a Letter to the King, which had not been seen; and Sir Richard opening his Letter carelesly, the inclosed to the King dropt out: whereupon Sir Iames Mercer being near him stooped down in civility to take up the Letter, and read the Direction of it; and he returning next day to the Scotish Camp, told what he had seen to the General, who (in a Committee, that sate that afternoon where∣in it was my Lord Montrose's turn to preside) said, that the Gentleman they had sent must be examined concerning any Letters he carried to the Court; and so he was called in, and examined. But Montrose un∣derstanding that his Correspondence with the King was discovered, said, that seeing others kept a Correspondence with the Court, he knew not why he might not do it as well as they: it was answered, if others were guilty that did not excuse his fault, but when that could be made out against any, they were liable to the same Censure he had now incurred; whereupon he was commanded to keep his Chamber, and he called a great many of his Friends to him, to try who would adhere to him: where∣upon the General bade the Earl of Calender, who was then Lieutenant-General, tell him, that if he came not, and submitted himself, he would hold a Council of War upon him, and proceed against him Capitally. Upon this my Lord Montrose came, and produced a Copy of the Letter, he said he had written, and craved pardon, and so this Matter was passed over: ••ut it was suspected, that his Letter had been sent to the Cove∣nanters by the Marquis; whereas indeed they knew no more of his Let∣ter, but what they had from Sir Iames Mercer, who read the Address of it, and so they knew not what was in it, but by the Copy he produced. Yet this went current for the Marquis his Treachery, though Sir Iames Mercer did often vouch the truth of this before many Witnesses, and par∣ticularly

particularly to Sanderson himself before Noble Witnesses, who acknow∣ledged his Mis-information, and promised to expunge that in the next Edition of his Book; though there are no grounds to fear, the Wo••ld will ever be troubled with another Edition of so ill a Book.

In the end of September a Treaty was agreed upon, and His Majesty named the Marquis and my Lords of Traquair and Lanerick, to be a∣mongst the Commissioners, who should Treat in His name. But the Co∣venanters excepted against the Marquis and Traquair, whom they in∣tended to pursue as Incendiaries, and therefore they could not Treat with them; as for Lanerick they had nothing to fasten on him. Upon this the King resolved to send none but English Lords, conceiving it not fitting to send any Scotchman, if the persons he had imployed as Commissioners were not of the number.

Rippon a little Town fifteen miles from York, was appointed to be the place of Treaty instead of Northallertown, and the King sent the English Lords thither, appointing Traquair and Lanerick to wait upon them, for giving them Information of Scotish Affairs; but he kept the Marquis to wait upon Himself. The Treaty begun at Rippon, and af∣ter a few days, by reason of the new Parliament the King had summon∣ed against the beginning of November, was removed to London. The Covenanters Demands were the same with those contained in their Letter of the 8^th of September, about which they continued Treating till the Iune of the next year; and so this year ended.

But here I shall insert a Paper, all written with His Majesties hand, which though it do not relate to Scotish business, yet I judged it a crime to let any of the Reliques of that Princes Pen perish. How it came into the Marquis his hand, I know not; it is an Answer to a Remon∣strance, sent to the King by the Two Houses at Westminster, in the end of this year.

I Having taken to my serious Consideration the late Remonstrance made to me by Both Houses of Parliament do make this Answer.

I take in good part your care for the Preservation of the true Religion established in this Kingdom, from which I will never de∣part; as also for your tenderness of my own Safety, and security of this State and Government.

It is against my mind that Popery or Superstition should any way increase within this Kingdom, and I will restrain the same by causing the Laws be put in due execution. I resolve likewise to pro∣vide against the dangers of Iesuites and Priests, setting forth a Proclamation with all speed, commanding them to depart the King∣dom within one month, whereof if they fail or shall return, then they shall be proceeded withall according to the Laws.

Concerning Rosettie you must understand, that my Wife hath al∣ways assured me, that (to her knowledge) he hath no Commission, but only to entertain a pers••nal Correspondence betwixt Her and the Pope, of things requisite for the exercise of Her Religion, which is

warranted to Her by the Articles of Our Marriage, which give Her a full Liberty of Conscience; yet I have so perswaded Her, that (since the misunderstanding of this person's Condition gives offence) She will within a convenient time remove him. Moreover, I will take special care to restrain my Subjects from resorting to Mass at Denmark-house, St. Jame's, and the Chappels of Ambassadours.

Lastly, concerning John Goodman the Priest, you must know the reason why I reprieved him, is, that (as I am informed) nei∣ther Queen Elizabeth, nor my Father, did ever avow that any Priests in their times were executed meerly for Religion, which to me seems to be this particular case; yet seeing that I am pressed by Both Houses, to give way to his Execution, (because I will avoid the inconvenience of giving so great a discontentment to my People, as I perceive this Mercy may produce) I remit this particular Cause to Both Houses: but I desire you to take into your serious Conside∣rations the inconveniences, which (as I conceive) may upon this occasion fall upon my Subjects, and other Protestants abroad, espe∣cially since it may seem to other States to be a Severity with surprize; which I having thus represented to you, think my Self discharged, from all ill consequences that may ensue upon the Execution of this person.

Notes

• An. 1640.
• They prepare in Scotland for War.
• Lanerick made Secretary of State.
• The state of Affairs in Scot∣land.
• The Marquis his Letter to the Lord Lindsay.
• The Grounds of the Cove∣nanters Confi∣dence.
• A short Parlia∣ment in Eng∣land.
• The Councel∣lours lend Mo∣ney.
• Ruthwen a ter∣ror to the Co∣venanters.
• The Parlia∣ment sits not∣withstanding the Kings Or∣ders for pro∣roguing of it.
• A Letter from the Commit∣tee of Parlia∣ment to Lane∣rick.
• An. 1639.
• The King is highly offend∣ed.
• An. 1640.
• Lowdon moves for his Enlarg∣ment.
• An. 1639.
• The Marquis treats with him by the Kings Order.
• An. 1640
• Lowdon is en∣larged.
• Lanerick's An∣swer to the Committee in Scotland.
• The Reply of the Commit∣tee.
• The Prepara∣tions are great in Scotland.
• The Scotish Army enters England.
• The English Forces are routed; and flie at Newburn.
• They Petition the King.
• His Majesties Answer.
• An. 1639.
• The Covenan∣ters make a se∣cond Address.
• An. 1640
• The King ap∣points a Trea∣ty.
• A Breach be∣twixt the Mar∣quis and the Earl of Mon∣trose.
• The Treaty at Rippon.