The memoirs of James, Lord Audley, Earl of Castlehaven, his engagement and carriage in the wars of Ireland from the year 1642 to the year 1651 written by himself.

James Lord Audley Earl of Castlehaven HIS MEMOIR'S.

SECT. I.

The occasion and Motives of his engaging in those Wars. His being in Ireland, in his way to France, when the Rebellion brake out. His Service proffer'd to the Lords Justices, but rejected. His retire∣ment to his Country-house, Indictment of Treason, and Commitment to She∣riff Woodcocks at Dublin. Sir John Read put to the Torture of the Rack. The memory of the Earl of Strafford's Death. The Kings answer at York to Colonel Mervin Tuchet. His escape out of Dublin, and flight to Kilkenny. The Model of Government, and Oath of Association.

WHat induced me to write these Memoires, is to answer a wonder, that reasonably may be made:

how I being a Peer of England, and an English-man both by Birth and Descent on all sides, should engage my self a∣mongst the Irish in their Wars: not speaking a word of their Language, and having little in their Kingdom. I say then, that I never designed it, but fell into those Troubles by chance, and much against my will. The Story thus. I was newly come from my Travels abroad: where my Genius leading me to see whatever was to be seen in Ar∣mies, I went of purpose to the Siege of Turain in Italy. After my return, I attended the King at Berwick, till the first Pacification with the Scots. And then, hearing that the Prince Cardinal Governor of the Spanish Netherlands was preparing to March towards the relief of Arras besieged at that time by the French: I pass'd over again to Flanders and Artois; and saw an end of that expedition, and Arras yielded to the Besiegers. In short, my Incli∣nations were to War, and so intended to make it my Trade, by putting my

self into the Service of some Foreign Prince.

To this effect, having settled my Af∣fairs in England, I made as I thought a step into Ireland, to do the like there. But it proved a longer stay. The occa∣sion take out of the ensuing Letter to me from my Brother Colonel Mervin Tuchet.

HEaring your Lordship is writing a Narrative of your concerns in Ire∣land during the late War, & how you came to be engaged: I having been at that time with you, may possibly mind you of some Passages, more in my knowledge than yours. When the Rebellion broke forth in the North, you were in Mounster: and on the News, you immediately repaired to Dublin, to the Lords Justices, Sir William Parsons, and Sir John Burlace: where you acquainted them, with your willingness, to serve the King against the Rebels, as your Ancestors had formerly done in Ireland, on like occasions. To which they replyed, your Religion was an

Obstacle. There being then a Parliament in that Kingdom sitting, you were resolved to see the Event, sending me to your House at Madingstown, in the County of Kil∣dare, to secure and defend it, in case there were any Rising in those parts. Ʋpon my coming, I found many poor English stript: whom I took into the House and relieved, defending them in the best manner I could. Some time after, the Parliament being dissolved, you desired of the Justices a Pass to go for England. But they refu∣sing, you acquainted them that your Estate there, was not in a condition to maintain you in Dublin; and desired that you might be supplied with some mony, for your sub∣sistance, until such time, that you could apply your self, to the Parliament in Eng∣land for a Pass to bring you over; which they denied. You prest them then to direct you, what course you should steer. To which they replied: Go home and make fair Wea∣ther. You took this Advice, and being come; my Lord of Antrim and my Lady Dutchess of Buckingham, soon followed; and you were very well pleased with so good

Company to spend your Provisions. But in a short time, the Irish came and drove away great part of your stock, to a village near. It being night, you desired me to take your Servants and endeavour the recovery. Which I did, bringing with me two or three of the chiefest Conductors of this Rabble. This enrag'd the Irish so much, as you conceiv'd I was not safe there: and therefore sent me to Dublin, to attend the Justices Orders, and assure them of your readiness to return on a Call, they sending a Convoy. Which they promis'd to do, as occasion required. When I went from you, you thought it necessary, that I should take with me, all the poor English that were saved; and to let them go with the Carts, which were loaden with Wool for Dublin; leaving only one of them, who was a Sadler, then my Lord of An∣trims servant. In the passage neer Rath-Cool, the Rebels fell upon them, and barbarously killed some, and wounded others: my self and one more escaping by the goodness of our Horses. But a Ser∣vant of mine governing the Carts, and

being an English-man, they took. And whilst they were preparing to hang him, Sir John Dungans Eldest Son, Watt Dungan came forth of his Fathers house with a Party, and rescued him with the rest of those that were left alive, and brought them safe to Dublin, where I was gotten. The Sadler that I had left in my Lord of Antrims Service, some time after met me, complaining, that coming for Dublin he had been taken by the Rebells, by means of a Boy that served your Lordship: and if I would not give him forty Shillings, being he was damni∣fied (in so much) he would complain. I told him, that the Boy he mentioned was no Servant of yours; but kept out of Cha∣rity, and to whip the Dogs out of doors: being blind of an Eye, and lame of a Leg. He replied, that although he were blind and lame, he had a Note from my Lord of Antrim, to have him apprehended by those that were neither blind, nor lame, which he gave to them, who took him Prisoner, and carried him to the Garri∣son of Leixlipp, kept by the Rebels. I bad

him do what he pleased: for I would not give him one Farthing.

The next I heard of it, was that he had complained; and that your Lord∣ship was Indicted of high Treason. Ʋpon which I made my addresses to the Lords Justices again, to let them know, that they had not kept their Words with me, in suffering this Clandestine proceeding against my Brother; but however, I would go and fetch you: and to that purpose desired them to let me have a party of Horse. But that they refused. I then came down to you with some of my Friends, and acquainted you with what had past. You answered, that you knew nothing of it, and went immediately with me to Dub∣lin; where you addressed your self to my Lord of Ormond, as I did my self in your behalf to the Lord Justices and Council, to acquaint them that you were come. They replied, that they could say nothing to it, till you appeared before them. Which you did the next day; and then they Or∣dered you to come the day following. At which time without calling you in, they

committed you to Mr. Woodcocks House, one of the Sheriffs of Dublin. Now I seeing this rigorous usage towards you, and being refused a Pass for my self to go for England, made a shift to get away in a small boat, and go directly to the King at York, and Petition him that you might be sent for over to be Tried here by your Peers. But his Majesties answer was, that he had left all the Affairs of Ireland to the Parliament. Ʋpon which I went to London, and Petitioned the Parliament to the same effect. Their answer was, that they could do nothing without the King; of which I gave you an account by Letter. This was the last Correspondence I had with you, being after that continually serving his Majesty in England. But the King coming from Newark to Oxford, he sent me with Dispatches to my Lord Lieutenant, and Ordered me to go to you, and use my endeavours to persuade you to hasten a Peace. You received the Com∣mission as very agreeable, saying that from the beginning of the War you had always laboured for a Peace, and that you

hoped it would soon be done. Before I re∣turned, I saw it proclaimed: and it goes by the name of the Peace of 46.

London the 17th. of May. 1680.

Now that you have seen what my Brother writes of the occasion of my longer stay in Ireland, so much contra∣ry to the design of my going thether: I will hence forth in my own Method go on with the Story of my own ad∣ventures in that Kingdom. But to this end I must once more place myself in Maden∣stown; whether, as you see in my Bro∣thers Letter, I was first retired by ad∣vice of the Lords Justices. I continued there some five or six Moneths after in peace and quietness; and, for the greatest part of the time, in so noble and excel∣lent company as that of the Dutchess of Buckingham, and the Lord Marquess of Antrim her Husband, who did me that very great honour.

In the mean while Parties were sent out by the Justices from Dublin, and

the Towns adjacent, to kill and destroy the Rebels, and the like was done through all parts of the Kingdom. But the Officers and Soldiers did not take care enough to distinguish between Rebels and Subjects; but killed in ma∣ny places promiscuously. On which partly, and partly on other provoca∣tions that preceeded, and some too that followed, the whole Nation, finding themselves concerned took to Arms for their own defence, and particularly the Lords of the Pale did so: who yet at the same time, desired the Justices to send their Petition to the King. Which was refused. And, for their farther discouragement, Sir John Read, his Majesties Sworn Servant (a stranger to the Country, un-engag'd, and an eye-witness of their proceedings, then upon his journey to England) pre∣vailed with by them to carry their Re∣monstrance to his Majesty the late King of ever Blessed Memory, and to beg his pardon for what they had done, coming to Dublin, and not concealing his Mes∣sage,

was put to the Rack for his good will. The said Lords having Tried this, and other ways, to acquaint the King with their Grievances, and all failing, an open War broke forth generally throughout the Kingdom, and very un∣fortunately for me. One Encounter happened in the sight of my House, be∣tween my Lord of Ormond command∣ing the English, and my Lord Richard Vicount of Mount-Garret the Irish. The latter was defeated. This Encounter goes, by the name of the Battel of Kill-Rush, and was fought the 15th. of April. 1642.

My Lord of Ormond after this being to Pass with his Army just by my Door, some of his people being of my acquain∣tance came Galloping before, assuring that my Lord of Ormond would be with me in half an hour. On which, my Lady Dutchess, and my self be-stirred our selves, and having two or three Cooks, a good Barns Door, and plenty of Wine, we patcht up a Dinner ready to be set on the Table at my Lords coming in.

But some that came with him, turned this another way, magnifying the en∣tertainment beyond what it was, and Publishing through the Army, that it was a mighty Feast for my Lord of Mount-Garrett and the Rebels; and this through the English Quar∣ters past for Currant. I believe it was much the Cause of that under-hand villanous proceeding against me, men∣tioned in my Brothers Letter. My La∣dy Dutchess and my Lord of Antrim soon left me going into their own Country in the North. For a while I Tided it out alone, till my Brother fetcht me to Dublin. You have seen by my Brothers Letter how I was Im∣prisoned, and no hopes of any relief from either the King, or Parliament sitting in England. So that after twenty Weeks that I had remained in Prison, I was ordered to be removed to the Castle of Dublin. Which Startled me, and brought to my thoughts the pro∣ceedings against the Earl of Strafford, who confiding in his Innocency lost his

head. I concluded then, that Innocency was a scurvy Plea in an angry time. Be∣sides I looked upon the Justices and most of the Council to be of the Parliaments per∣suasion. Wherefore I resolved to attempt an Escape, and save my self in the Irish Quarters. Which I did in this manner.

After the Battel of Killrush there was one George Lidwidge an Irish-man and Trooper left wounded in my house; who being recovered, in acknow∣ledgment of Kindnesses received, often visited me in Prison. I found so much Fidelity in the man towards me, that I trusted him with my design; desiring his assistance: which he promis'd. I then, giving him Mony, ordered him to buy me three Horses for my self and two Servants, with Sadles and Pistols: which he did. And the next night just as the Maid was to shut the Door, it being dark, I slipt into the Street: leaving my two men in the house, and appointing them where they should find me in the Morning. About Nine of the Clock they came out of the house,

bidding the Maid make no noise, pre∣tending that I was not well, and had not rested that Night. They coming to me, the Guards of the Town with∣drawn, and the Pattroles come in, were sent before with the Son of the Trooper to the place, where our Horses stood, to have them ready: the Trooper and my self soon following, but I as his Man carrying a Saddle under my Arm. To be short, we Mounted all on Horse∣back; March'd as Troopers carelesly out of the Town; and took our way by Temple-Oage towards the Mountains of Wicklow. Where being come, I cared little for the Justices. But before Dinner my Escape was discovered by the people of the House; and on Notice given to the Justices, I was pursued by a Party of Horse taking their way to my house at Madingstown. In the Night they invested it: but not finding me, after having possest them∣selves of what I had within, and with∣out, they killed many of my Servants, and Burnt the House. I kept on my

way towards Kilkenny, as much through the Fast Country as I could, till I arrived.

Where I found the Town very full, and many of my acquaintance: all pre∣paring for their Natural defence; see∣ing no distinction made; or safety, but in Arms. To this end they had chosen amongst themselves, out of the most eminent Persons a Council, and gave it the Title of the Supream Council of the Confederate Catholicks of Ireland: and formed an Oath of Association by which all were bound to obey them. They had made Four Generals of the Four Provinces: Preston of Leinster, Bar∣ry of Mounster, Owen-roe O Neal of Ʋlster, and one Burk of Conaught: and being to give Commissions they caused a Seal to be made, which was the Seal of the Council. I was sent for to this Coun∣cil to tell my Story, which I did. And then being askt, what I intended to do: I answer'd, To get into France, and so to England. Upon which they told me their condition, and what they were doing for their preservation; persuading

me to stay with them, being I was be∣loved in the Country, had three Sisters Married amongst them, was persecuted on the same score they were, and ruined so, that we had no more to lose but our Lives. I took two or three days to think of this Proposition; examining the Model of Government, they had pre∣pared against the meeting of the Gene∣ral Assembly, and most particularly their Oath of Association. Which Oath I judged to be very reasonable, as the Case stood, it being as here followeth.

The Oath of Association.

I A, B. Do Profess, Swear and Pro∣test, before God, and his Saints, and his Angels, that I will, during my life, bear true Faith and Allegiance to my Sovereign Lord Charles by the Grace of God, King of Great-Britain, France, and Ireland, and to his Heirs and Lawful Successors: and that I will to my power, during my life, defend, uphold, and main∣tain,

all his and their just Prerogatives, Estates and Rights, the Power and Pri∣viledge of the Parliament of this Realm, the Fundamental Laws of Ireland, the free Exercise of the Roman-Catholick Faith, and Religion, throughout this Land, and the Lives, Just Liberties, Possessions, Estates, and Rights of all those that have taken, or shall take this Oath, and perform the Contents thereof: and that I will obey and ratifie, all the Orders and Decrees made, and to be made, by the Supream Council, of the Con∣federate Catholicks of this Kingdom, concerning the said Publick Cause: and that I will not seek directly or indirectly, any Pardon or Protection, for any Act done, or to be done touching this general Cause, without the Consent of the Major part of the said Council: and that I will not di∣rectly or indirectly do any Act or Acts, that shall prejudice the said Cause; but will to the hazard of my Life, and Estate, Assist, Prosecute, and Maintain the same.

Moreover I do farther Swear, that

I will not accept of, or submit unto, any Peace, made or to be made, with the said Confederate Catholicks, without the consent and approbation of the Gene∣ral Assembly of the said Confederate Catholicks. And, for the preservation and strengthening of the Association, and union of the Kingdom, that upon any Peace, or accomodation to be made, or concluded with the said Confederate Catholicks, as aforesaid, I will, to the utmost of my Power insist upon and main∣tain, the ensuing Propositions, until a Peace as aforesaid be made, and the mat∣ters to be agreed upon, in the Articles of Peace, be Established and secured by Parliament.

So help me God, and his holy Gospel.

SECT. II.

He takes the Oath, and Employment. Chief heads of the Model of Govern∣ment. Burras, Fore-Faukland, Byrrh, and Ballinikille yield to Preston: who not long after was twice defeated. Castlehaven begins his Command with an action of Charity. And then he forces Crawford from the Siege of Balli-Brittas: takes Ballinunry, Clogrenen, and Ballilenan; and with∣all defeats the succour.

ON the whole matter I returned to this Council, thank'd them for their good Opinion of me, and en∣gaged my self to run a Fortune with them. Whether Anger and Revenge did not incline me to it as much as any other consideration, I cannot resolve. This I well remember, that I consider'd how I had been used, and seen my house burning as I pass'd by: besides, that I

was a light man, with no Charge, and not any hopes of redress from the King, who was then engaged in an Intestine War. Now being thus a Confederate, and having taken the Oath, they made me one of the Council, and General of the Horse under Preston.

The Assembly met the 24. of Oct. 1642. It differ'd nothing from a Parliament, other then that the Lords and Commons sate together, and not in two Houses. This you see was a force put upon us; and we hoped in time, the storm being pass'd, to return to our old Govern∣ment under the King. We had many learned in the Law amongst us, whom we encouraged to keep us, as near the old Government as might be, holding to the Ancient Laws of the Land.

That Assembly without delay appro∣ved all the Council had done, and settled a Model of Government. viz. that at the end of every General Assembly, the Supream Council should be confirmed or changed as they thought fit. That it should con∣sist of 25. six out of each Province, three

of the six still resident. The 25th was my self with no Relation to any Pro∣vince, but to the Kingdom in general. Every Province had a Provincial Assem∣bly, which met on Occasions: and each County had Commissioners for Applot∣ting money within themselves, as it came to their shares on the general Ap∣plotment of the Province. Many other things there were, as to Government. If a Letter came to them written in Irish, it would be wonder'd at; and hardly could one be found to read it. We were not in case to bring to Justice those that begun the Rebellion. But I never saw any of them esteemed or advanced. The General Assembly being put off, the Generals fell to their work: and my General took in Burras, Fort-Faukland, and Birrh in the Kings County, where I was with him.

And I had the good Fortune to begin my first commanding in the Wars with an Action of Charity. For going to see this Garrison of Birrh before it marcht out, I came into a great room, where

many people of Quality were both men and women. They with many Tears so soon as they saw me, fell on their Knees, desiring me to save their lives. I was astonished at their posture and Petition: and, desiring them to rise, ask'd what the matter was? They answered, that from the first day of the Wars, there had been continual action and much blood shed between them and their Irish Neighbours, and little Quarter on ei∣ther side. And that therefore under∣standing that I was an English man, some knowing me, they desired that I would take them into my Protection. I doubted that there was too much rea∣son for their fears, considering they were to March two or three days, through the Woods of Iregan and waste Countreys, before they came to Athy their next friends Garrison. I went immediately to the General, and de∣sired that I might command their Con∣voy: which he granted. Then culling out two hundred Horse and three hun∣dred Foot, in whom I had most Con∣fidence,

I March'd and delivered them with their Baggage safe. They were at least eight hundred Men, Women and Children. I was with this General the 18th. of March 42. when he was beaten at Ross by the Marquess of Ormond; and by Colonel Monk, since Duke of Albermarle, at Timochoe in the Queens County the 5th. of Octob. 42. Yet afterwards he besieging Ballynckill in the same County, I ventured once more with him. Where he having Intelligence that Major General Crawford was besie∣ging Ballybritas, a Castle belonging to the Vicount Clanmaleer, he sent me with a Party of fifteen hundred Horse and Foot, to endeavour the succouring of that place: which I did. Crawford drawing off, in passing the River of the Barrow in a skirmish had his Thigh bro∣ken with a Musquett-shot. I returned as Ballynekill was rendred; and convey∣ed that Garrison too, as I had done the other of Byrrh.

After this I remained at Kilkenny with the Supream Council; and Preston

went into the lower parts of the Pro∣vince with the Army. Of whose ab∣sence the Enemies Garrisons in the County of Catherloe, and Queens Coun∣ty taking advantage, Alarm'd the County of Kilkenny even to the Gates of the City. I was then by the Coun∣cil commanded to go against them. And therefore having gotten together about 2000 men with some Cannon, I Marched to Ballenunry in the County of Catherloe, and took it, as also Clogre∣nan. Where the County of Wexford Re∣giment Mutined; but were reduced, and some examples made, served well for the future. I Marched thence into the Queens County, and Besieged Ballile∣nan Commanded by the Grimes's a Va∣liant People, with a strong Garrison. But a great breach being made, their Succour came by the way of Athy. I was not well at this Alarme, but laid upon my Bed in my Tent. However I made no great matter of it, knowing the Succour could not be considerable. But my Old Lord Richard Vicount of

Mountgarret being abroad, sent me ad∣vice that they were coming on in great hast, and stronger than I thought, both in Horse, and Foot, and were then near the end of the Tougher: which is a great way cut through a Bog, and I believe in length at least half a Mile. Now I had a great Guard of Horse and Foot at my end of the Tougher, with a Line thrown up before them. So I judged the danger not great. However I got on Horse-back, taking with me 400 Horse: and coming to my Guard, I saw some of the Enemy on the Tougher in their March. Whereupon I bad my Horse and Guards follow me, and March towards them; thinking to have fought them upon the Tougher. But they retired, and formed on a plain two Musquet-shot off. I having pass'd the Tougher, prepared to Charge. But they Drew off again, and did not stand me till they had gotten through a Gap in a Ditch with water to the Belly. Being past they lined the Ditch with Musqueteers, drawing up their Horse

and Foot close by to defend this Gap. Sir Walter Butler with his Squadron, begun the Fight; but being Wounded in the Ditch with a Pike through his Thigh, his men sell off; and a second Squadron Charged and did the like. But the Enemy seeing more Squadrons coming on, in the smoke took their advantage to run away: which we could not see, till the smoke was over. Then we followed, and could not En∣gage them till they recovered Athy, which was near. I guessed them to be about three hundred Horse, and seven or eight hundred Foot. Their Succour thus beaten in their view, the besieged Garrison yielded on condition to March out with their Arms. The small Gar∣risons in those Parts made no resistance. I was much favoured in these my first undertakings, by having been in my youth a great Hunter in those parts of Deer, Wolves, and Foxes. So that there was no passage in Bog or Moun∣tain, or Ford in a River that I did not know. This little beginning gave me

some Reputation and as near as I could what I wanted in experience was sup∣plied by diligence and good Intelli∣gence.

SECT. III.

He Defeats Sir Charles Vavasor in Mounster. By occasion of a Trumpet sent from Ormond he moves the Coun∣cil for Peace. Commanded with three thousand men against Monk, he takes Dullarstown, Tully, Laccach, and many other Castles in the County of Kildare, and in Leix. Submits to the Cessation.

MY Lord of Inchiquin was all this while Master of the Field in Mounster; having won some Battels, beaten the Irish in all parts, and in a manner subdued that Province, four or five Towns excepted. And with these he was going now to work, beginning with Kilmallock in the County of Lim∣brick,

and sitting down before it with an Army of seven Thousand men. This Alarmed the General Assembly then sit∣ting at Kilkenny: but most particularly those of that Province. Whereupon, after many Consults among themselves, they concluded at last to ask succour of the General Assembly; though they saw but little hopes of any in that exigency: for Preston was far off with the Army. Wherefore opening themselves more clearly, than perhaps they would have otherwise done, they layed claim to me, as having my Earldom and Estate in their Province, though I was an Officer of Leimster. Alleadging farther that their General was old and Unfortu∣nate: and that if I had the Command all would joyn in the defence of their Country, and take new Courage. I was present at this proposition; and, though I had ambition and vanity enough, did heartily oppose it, having no prospect of any Success. But my Lord of Mus∣kry, being my great friend, and of that Province, desired the Assembly to com∣mand

me by vertue of the Oath of Asso∣ciation. Which they did; and then there could be no more reply. It being thus ordered: and, which was pursuant to it, that my Commission under the Great Seal of the Confederates to Command in Chief for that expedition, should be immediately dispatched: I was ask'd, what Troops were near at hand? I an∣swered, that I knew of none, but of my own Life-Guard of Horse. 'Tis true I had observed many stragling Horse in the Town; but they would not be brought together without Mony. Some Money was then given out, and by Ten of the Clock next morning I had gotten together Eighty Horse, and put them under the Command of Garrett Talbot Brother to Sir Robert Talbot. These with my Life-Guard Commanded by Captain Fits Gerrald, commonly called Garrat Garrah, made in all one hundred and twenty Horse. With these I March'd, accompanied with my Lord of Muskry, since made Earl of Clancarty, and some others of the Province. On the Fron∣tier

of it I met about a hundred and twenty Horse more, most Gentlemen, and formed into a Squadron. But at Ca∣shel I was received by the General of the Province Barry, the Lieutenant-General Purcel, and some other Officers with seven hundred Foot.

That night I had Intelligence, that the Lord of Inchiquin had raised his Siege, and March'd with four or five Thousand men into the County of Kerry. But had sent Sir Charles Vavasor with six∣teen or seventeen hundred men, to take in Clohlea, a Castle then belonging to the Condons. I Marched immediately towards him, and before night Encamped within three Miles of him; the Moun∣tain only between us. My Brother Richard Butler, Brother to the Duke of Ormond, was sent out the same night to discover the Enemy. In the Morning word was brought that the Castle was taken, and the Garrison after Quarter given put to the Sword, and my Bro∣ther Engaged. I lost no time, but March'd in all hast with my Horse to

his Succour: which joyned with his, made up two hundred and forty, or two hundred and fifty at the most. The Foot marched also. But the old Gene∣ral came on so slowly that I had defeat∣ed the Enemy before he came within two Miles.

The manner thus. Sir Charles Va∣vasor, though he had taken the Castle, remained still in his Camp, till seeing me on the Top of the Mountain above him, come to succour mine that were skirmishing, he drew to Arms; but being amongst Hedges and Ditches, and the Castle between us, I could not come at him, till he marched towards Castle Lions: where in a large plain he form∣ed. But I, going by the advantage of a great valley, came into the plain un∣seen, almost as soon as he. And, having ordered three or four Squadrons of Boys on Horse-back to possess the ground from whence I came, I lost no time in the Charge; that Defeated his Horse; who to save themselves broke in on the Foot. Their Cannons were useless, being past

the Black-water. This, with Gods blessing, and a great shower of rain, gave me the victory with little or no loss. Sir Charles that Commanded, with several other Officers remained Prisoners; their Cannon and Baggage taken; all their Foot defeated; but their Horse for the most part escaped. This happened on a Sunday, the 4th of June 1643. about twelve a Clock at Noon.

Now having left the best advice I could for the improving this advantage, I took leave of the General with others of the Province: and returning to Kil∣kenny gave the Assembly an account of what had passed, in order to their Com∣mands.

Soon after, the Assembly being broke up, and a Supream Council chosen to Govern in their absence, I retired to Kilkash my Brother Butlers house to rest my self. The Council went to Ross: and whilst they were there, a Trumpet brought them a Letter from the Marquess of Ormond, setting forth

his being appointed by the King to hear our grievances, and to Treat for an accommodation. The particulars of the Letter I knew not; but the Trum∣pet was quickly dispatched with some slight Answer. Which coming to my knowledge, I repaired to Kilkenny, whe∣ther the Council was returned. And on Information finding what I had heard to be true, I sent for Sir Robert Talbot, Sir Richard Barnwel, Colonel Walter Bagnal, and such others as were in the Town being well affected and leading men of the Assembly, though not of the Council. Now being in my Lodging, I acquainted them with what understood: and, that if they would stick to me, I would endeavour to give it a turn. We all agreed on the way: which was, To go to the Council then sitting, take notice of the Kings Offer, and their Return, and to mind them, that the Consideration, and resolutions concerning Peace and War, the General Assembly, reserved to themselves only: and therefore to require that they would

send immediately a Trumpet of their own, with a Letter to the Marquess of Ormond, giving him to understand, they had Issued Summons for a General Assembly, in order to acknowledge the Kings gracious savour in naming him his Commissioner to hear our Aggrie∣vances and redress them. This we put in execution, and gained our point without much resistance.

The Marquess of Ormond being thus brought into a Treaty, the Consede∣rate Commissioners met at Seginstown near the Nasse as his Excellency had appointed, in order to a Cessation of Arms. At which time all Parties laboured to get into Possession of what they could. Colonel Monk after made Duke of Albermarle March'd into the County of Wicklow to take in the Harvest, and Possess some Castles. I being then Com∣manded by the Council to go against him, and having Rendevouz'd my Troops consisting of about three Thou∣sand Horse and Foot, at Ballynekil in the County of Caterloe, Notice was

brought me that Colonel Monk was March'd away in all hast, to the As∣sistance of the Lord Moor, then facing Owen-Roe Oneal near Portlester. I find∣ing my self now to have nothing to do, thought it worth the while to endeavour taking in Dulerstown, Tully, Lacagh, and all other Castles in the County of Kildare, between the Rivers of the Barrow and Liffe. Which I did, lea∣ving Garrisons in them. This done I re∣past the Barrow at Minster-Evin, March'd into Leix, and took threee or four small places. But as I was going on, had advice from the Commissioners at Seginstown, that they had on the 15th Septemb. 1643 concluded a Cessation of Arms with the Marquess of Ormond. To which I submitted.

SECT. IV.

Scots of Ulster obey not the Cessation. Owen O Neal in the Assembly at Waterford. Castlehaven chosen Ge∣neral of the Northern expedition (which should have consisted of 11000) against Monro's Army of 17000. His apprehensions thereupon. Before this Campagn open'd, he is sent to reduce Castle-Carroe and Castlebar in Connaught; and does so. Rendevous at Granard. Scots design to surprize him there, frustra∣ted: and so his to surprize them at Toinregaoh. Horse fight here. He Camps at Charlemont, and Monro hard by at Ardmagh; neither able to force the other. Owen O Neal per∣forms nothing promis'd. Stratagem; safe Retreat, and putting the Army (consisting of above 8000) into Win∣ter-Quarters.

BUt General Monro sometime be∣fore being arrived in Ʋlster, from

Scotland with ten Thousand new Scots: and having Sir Robert Steward joyned to him with five or six Thousand of the old Scots Natives of that Province; as also some English under the Command of Sir Audley Mervin, Sir Theophilus Jones and others; would not submit to this Cessation. They forced General O Neal, to so great straits, having some∣time before Defeated him, in the En∣counter where Con-O Neal was killed with many others, that in the beginning of Winter, leaving his Troops & Crejaghts to shift the best they could, he came to the General Assembly, held at Waterford. Where he set forth the lamentable Con∣dition of his people, desiring the As∣sistance of the other three Provinces: and in the name of his Province, un∣dertaking to joyn to their Forces four Thousand Foot and four hundred Horse: but withal declaring, that otherwise he with his Forces and Creiaghts should be obliged to save themselves in the other Provinces: and so get subsistance as well as they could. This last point

of Owen O Neals Speech, besides their persuasion that the Scots would not fail soon to follow him and visit them, made the Assembly come to a quick Conclusion, and agree to send six Thousand Foot and six hundred Horse out of the other three Provinces. So that the Army was to consist of ten Thousand Foot and one Thousand Horse. But it coming to the Question who should be General of this Army, they went to the Election after this manner. The Assembly sitting, those they thoughtfit to come in competition, they caused their names, one under an other, to be written down, and from each a long Line drawn. Then at the Table where the Clerk sate, every Member of the General Assembly, one after another with a Pen puts a Dash, on the Line of him that he would have to be General. And to the end that none should mark more than once, four or five were Chosen out of the Assem∣bly, two of which were Bishops, to overlook this marking, being on their

Oath. Now, contrary to Owen O Neals exspectation, who had designed this Generalship for himself by which he would be Generalissimo, I was chosen. Which he took extremely much to heart; as I have reason to believe. How∣ever he carryed it fairly; and came to Congratulate me; giving withal great Assurances of his performance and rea∣diness to serve me. Next day a Com∣mission was sent me, with orders to pre∣pare all things for this expedition; which I did. But the farther I look'd into the matter, the worse I liked it. For I considered that I was now to make War in a Country where I had never been: and in a Country too where we had not so much as one Town; but the Enemy had many.

That by all Intelligence they could draw into the Field sixteen or seventeen Thousand men. That if Owen O Neal should perform, and deal fairly with me: yet all I was to expect did not ex∣ceed ten Thousand Foot, and a Thou∣sand Horse. That having no Towns

in the Province, we should be forced to bring all our Provisions from the other Provinces where I had my Maga∣zines. That I must depend upon O Neal for Intelligence. For by such lights I always Guided my self in my former small undertakings. But that which most of all troubled me, was that I did not see how I could avoid a Battel, if the Enemy had a mind to it: being I was to make an Ossensive War. I had also this other consideration to discou∣rage me, That although our Parties had commonly the better; yet our Armies had commonly the worst. This was experimented in several Battels. And the reason was clear and obvious. Most of all the great Towns in the Kingdom were the Enemies and Garisoned; and of the few Towns we had, there was but one, to wit Kilkenny, that would receive a Garison. So that at our com∣ing out of every Field as the Enemy returned into their Garisons, where they were with their Officers and kept in Discipline; ours were dispersed all

the Kingdom over, into little Villages and odd houses; never seeing an Offi∣cer till the next Campagne. And there∣fore they came to their Rendevous in the beginning of every field like new men half changed; and for the Horse, so haggled out in riding up and down to see their friends, that they seem'd hard∣ly able to draw their Legs after them; and both Horse and Foot with rusty Arms and not fixt. But how plainly soever I saw my ill condition, I must through as well as I could; yet withal resolving to avoid a Battel by all means, and seek to make my War by Parties, and Surprises, where new men are as good as old. Now having more then time before the Campagne, I was commanded by the Supream Council to March into Connaught to reduce some of our own Party, which had set up for themselves in the County of Mayoe, and had possessed Castle Carroe, and Castle Barre; the former Commanded by one Burk; the latter by the Lord of Mayoe. I took with me two Thousand

men, and past the Shanon at Fort-fauk∣land; the Marquess of Clanrichard per∣mitting me to pass through his Coun∣try. These Castles made little resistance. After they had yielded, I sent my Par∣ty, under the Command of Sir James Dillon, into the County of Roscommon, to reduce the Armsbyes and some others that held Garisons and would not sub∣mit to the Cessation. When he had done his work, which he was not long about, he return'd into Leinster, and lodg'd the Troops as he was ordered.

In the mean while, I had gone to Kilkenny, and set my self to the great Work; still having some mistrust of Owen O Neal's performance. Where∣fore I desired the Council, to grant me four hundred Horse and Dragoons more, in case I could raise them without Charge: which I did.

The first Rendevous that I made in order to this Field, was 1644 about Midsummer, in the County of Long∣ford, at a place called Granard where I had appointed three Thousand Horse

and Foot with two or three Field-pieces: intending there to have expected the coming up of the whole Army, which might be four or five days; for O Neal was neer Encamped at Portlester, and the rest were Marching as ordered. By my spies, that met me at this Rendevous, and came in hast, all agreed that they had left the Enemy near a certain Moun∣tain threescore Miles of; that they were seventeen Thousand strong, with one and twenty days Provision in Oaten Meal, which they carried on their own, and little Horses backs; no Cannon or other Baggage; and were ready to March. I thought my self pret∣ty secure for that Night; but at twelve of the Clock, one from Cavan assured me that he had left the whole Army there: and that their Horse and Dra∣goons would be with me in the morn∣ing. On this advice, I packt off as fast as I could, and gain'd Port-Lester, ordering the rest of the Army to come thither: and at the instant Commanded a Colonel with five or six hundred

Foot and a hundred Horse to defend the Bridge of Fienagh. It was of stone, and a Castle on our End. I sent with him Shovels, Pickaxes, and Spades, with plenty of Ammunition. The Enemy, according to my Intelligence, came at Sun-rising into the Camp I had left, and shewed themselves the next day before that Bridge. My unfortunate Colonel, sent over his Horse to Skir∣mish; and when they were far enough out, on a sudden the Enemy mingled with them. Which was the cause that our Foot could do nothing; but through fear to kill their own, left Bridge, Castle, and all free for the Enemy. How∣ever this availed them little. For find∣ing me well Posted, though O Neal was of another opinion, their Provisi∣ons shrunk, and being at least twelve days March from their own Country, they staid not to give me farther trouble, but hastened homewards.

Now then I was at leisure to call on General O Neal for his four Thou∣sand Foot and four hundred Horse; be∣ing

resolved to follow the Enemy, and try my Fortune in Ʋlster, as I was de∣signed to do. He excused himself by Reason of the continual Alarms in his Countrey, that he could not at present make good his Word; but withal assu∣ring me again, that so soon as I came into the Province I should have no rea∣son to complain. Having this assu∣rance, I March'd on with my six Thou∣sand Foot and a Thousand Horse and Dragoons: and O Neal joyned to me about two hundred Horse and three or four hundred Foot; his Creiaghts Marching with us, being all the Irish with their Cattle of that Province. When he had drawn me on as far as Toinregoah, I had intelligence that the Enemy had revictualled themselves, and were returning to encounter me. Whereupon I prest O Neal very hard to make good his Word. Who plainly told me that he could not do it; alledg∣ing that his people were all amongst the Creiaghts, and every one looking to save what he had. In this sad con∣dition,

I blamed my own Weakness in being persuaded with fair Promises, to come so far into an Enemies Country; however I was resolved to see the Ene∣my, then Encamped at Drummore Jueagh. And therefore taking such Guides as O Neal would give me, and leaving the Command of the Camp to him, in the evening I March'd with my Thousand Horse and Dragoons, and fifteen hundred Commanded Foot. These I left on a Pass about three Miles from my Camp, to make good my retreat; intending to fall with my Horse into their Horse-Quarter. But, whether Wittingly or Willingly in my Guides, it was Sun-rising when I came within two Miles of their Horse-Quarter. And yet still though I had lost my design, I would see the Enemy. And to this end, perceiving some of their Horse at Grass, I, being drawn under a Hill near a little River, where there was a Stone-bridge, sent a Party to take those Horses; which they did, and brought them to me. But their

Guard of Horse being near, after my Horse were come back, seized the Bridge and defended it. I sent men to beat them off; but it would not do. Then I sent another Party; the same still. Whilst this was a disputing, I per∣ceived a hundred Foot coming over a great plain. Then I Galloped down my self with some Officers, and more Horse. So passing the Bridge, I had the cutting oft that hundred Foot, without resistance. A Party of mine pursued the Horse that ran from the Bridge; but before they overtook them they were met with another which routed them. And others of mine put them also to the run. Before this Fight ended, most of the Horse on both sides were Engaged. The Enemy at last drew off: and so did I to my Army.

Being returned to my Camp, I ac∣quainted O Neal with what had past, and how the Enemies Army were ad∣vancing according to my intelligence. Whereupon he advised me to retire to Charlemount, a Fort where he had a

Garison. I followed his advice, and found it a very good Post, there being a large plain joyned to it, on the one side runs the black Water, and near the Fort a Bridge over it; the rest sur∣rounded with Bogs and Moorish Ground. My Horse lay Encamped at Benborb, on the other side the River. At the same time that I came into this place, Monro with his Army arrived at Armagh about two or three Miles distant, and there Encamp'd fortifying himself. Thus neither of us being able to Engage the other, we lay in pretty good Correspondence: and the small War we had was chiefly in cutting off of Convoys. My Provisions came much harder to me than his to him: and O Neal began to be very weary of some∣times assisting me with Cows. So that after two Months, I resolved the en∣deavouring to gain my own Country: seeing no hopes of any forces from O Neal. Which to Effect, for I did not desire fighting, I caused a Tougher or great way to be cut through the Bog,

near the Fort, leading to Toinregaoh by which their Provisions came. This way being finisht, I knowing their days took my time, to pass most of my Horse, and some Foot, shewing them beyond the Tougher, as if that night I intended straight for Toinregaoh. Mon∣ro having this Intelligence posted away, a great Party of Horse and Foot to se∣cure his Convoy. But the night being come I turned, and in stead of March∣ing towards Toinregaoh, past over the Bridge with the whole Army: leaving my Cannon and Baggage in the Fort, with a strong Garison, plenty of Am∣munition, and all the Provision I could possibly scrape to put in. That night I March'd, and all the next day, taking a great round before I could have my own Country on my back; which having obtained, in the County of Cavan I faced towards the Enemy, about five or six Miles from them. Which Mon∣ro knowing, and finding that I lay ea∣sier for my Provisions then he did, raised his Camp and March'd to his own

Country. It being now late in the year; I, thus Free of him, sent a Par∣ty of Horse and Foot to bring off my Cannon, and what I left in the Fort; and so March'd to Fienaegh, where I met Commissioners from the Supream Council to receive the Army, and lodge them on the three Provinces, together with fifteen hundred Ʋlster men which on my Order came to me out of Co∣nought, being of no Army but endea∣vouring to live by strong hand; which I could not admit. Thus ended the Ʋlster expedition, like to be so fatal to the Confederate Catholicks of Ireland, through the sailing or something else of General Owen Roe O Neal. But after all, the three Provinces had no reason to complain of this Campagne. For this Army they sent, kept them from being troubled either with Scots, or Ʋlster People, that year.

SECT. V.

Views the Siege of Duncannon, how laid, and that strong place taken by Gene∣ral Preston. Is sent with an Army to Mounster against Inchiquin, of late declared for the Parliament. Dean Boyle's message. Capper-Quin and Michaelstown taken. Skirmish of Horse near the Black-water. Mal∣low, Donerail and Liscarrol yield. Miltown and Conycastle taken by a storm of 3000 Garsoons, meer servant Boys that belong'd to the Army. A Flood hinders the relieving of Balli∣martir. Yet he surprizes Rostellan and several Officers in it: and then forces Castle-Lions and Lismore to Surren∣der. Marches straight to Cork. Blind scustle there by night. Returns to Tallow, and thence goes to Yough∣hal. In that way all the little Castles submit. An unexspected mutinous Accident at one of them. What done

at Youghal. The Snow falling, he retires to Capper-Quin, and so ends this Campagne.

HAving thus left the Army with Commissioners, on Muster, more than eight Thousand strong, (for I had been recruited with several Com∣panies) I took my way to Kilkenny, ill pleased that the Treaty of Peace train'd so long: and designed not to stir from the Council till I saw it concluded. But coming there, I found the Supream Council in great Consternation. For Duncannon that Commanded the har∣bour of Waterford, was declared for the Parliament: as also my Lord of Inchi∣quin Commanding in Mounster, who before, had not only submitted to the Cessation, but carried with him a con∣siderable number of his Troops into England to serve the King. Now taking there some disgust, as 'tis said, because the Presidency of Mounster was given to the Earl of Portland, he returns, and declares for the Parliament, Command∣ing

by their Commission as President of Mounster. Those of Waterford now pressed the taking in of Duncannon: making great offers to the Council of large assistance. Preston is named for this work, and sent with three or four Thousand men, Miners, and a good Train of Artillery; it being within his Province. And I having the curiosity to see it, left the Council, and followed him. I will relate the particulars of this Siege, because the only in form that I saw in Ireland. He made not any line of Circumvallation, fear∣ing no succour that could come on the Land-side: but began his approaches with two Attacks: and being come near the place, joyned them with a line of Communication: and then ran them on divided to the two ends of the Curtain. Those within made a good defence, and lost nothing in six weeks, only the Be∣siegers had made a lodging in the Ditch. At this time two or three Parliament Frigats arriv'd, with succour of Men, Ammunition, and Provisions; coming

to Anchor within less then Cannon∣shot of the Fort. But before they could man out their Boats; so horrible a Storm arose, that in eight or ten days none could come on shore. Whereupon those within, being in despair, and press'd with some essential want, yielded.

All this while my Lord of Inchiquin over-ran Mounster, and coming to Ca∣shel, the people retired to the Rock, where the Cathedral Church stands, and thought to defend it. But 'twas carried by Storm, the Souldiers giving no Quarter. So that within and with∣out the Church, there was a great Massacre, and amongst others more than twenty Priests and Religious men kill'd.

Towards the Spring the Council or∣dered me to go against him; and to begin the Field as early as I could. The Enemy in this Province had always been victorious, beating the Confede∣rates in every Place; never having re∣ceived Check, but in the mentioned

Encounter at Cloghleah. So that every Gentlemans House, or Castle was Gari∣soned, and kept the Country in awe. To begin this Field then, I made my first rendevous at Clonmel, and the Ar∣my Encamped near it. Thither Dean Boyl, now Lord Chancellor of Ireland, and then Married to my Lord of Inchi∣quins Sister came, and there he found me. His business was to persuade me, to spare Donerail, and other Houses, and Castles, not Tenable. I answered, that I desired it, as much as he; though hi∣therto they had annoyed the Country equally, as if they had been strong. I told him in short, I had order to take all I could: and such as I thought not fit to Garison, to destroy. Yet, if he pleased to cause the Garisons to be drawn out, and by Letters from the Owners, to put them into my hands, I would appoint some few men into them, with Commanders in whom I most confided, and make it my Business to preserve them, by interceeding to the Council. The Dean and I parted

very good Friends. But whether he could or no, prevail with my Lord of Inchiquin or the Owners, I know not. I am sure, I heard no more from him.

Soon after, that is, about the 5. of Ap. 1645. I Marched towards Capper-Quin, my Army consisting of about five Thousand Foot, a Thousand Horse, and twelve Brass pieces of Cannon, some of twenty four, and others of eighteen pound Bullet. Viewing the place, I soon perceived where they mistook that Besieged it formerly, and after much time spent with great loss of men, were enforced to quit it. There being a Town and a Castle that Com∣manded it, they Attack'd the Town; and I, on the contrary, the Castle; which yielded, the Town could not resist. Drommane fell likewise into my hands. Whilst I was ordering these places, I wrote a Letter to the Com∣mander of Lismore, a house of my Lord of Corks, I think one Major Poor. I endeavoured to persuade him to put that

place into my hands, that it might be preserved: for let the Garison be what he pleased; it could not resist. I gave him many reasons why I desired the preservation of that place, as if it were my own. But he answered that his Honour was above all: that he would hold out to the last: and doubted not of timely Succour. So I left Mr. Poor, and Marched to Michaelstown; which after some shot of Cannon, was ren∣dred. Then, having Intelligence that six or seven hundred Horse were come over the Black-water, Marching to∣wards me, and at that time Drawn up, on a Hill in the great plains of Roches Country: I March'd the Army towards them, not knowing whether my Lord of Inchiquin might not be near with his Army. But these Horse, when we were well in sight, retired. Whereupon Lieutenant General Purcel with se∣veral other Officers and Gentlemen of the Country) who had been viewing them at near hand, came Galloping to me, and saying that the Enemy were

running away, prest me earnestly to let him have my Horse, for they had them so sure that they could not escape. I making difficulty, they said it was, because I knew not the Country. But I saw so much that yielding to their de∣sire I should be left expos'd in a great Champion Country, with an Army of Foot and Cannon, without Horse. Yet after all (which I count certainly a∣mong other my Follies) I suffered my self to be persuaded: they March'd away in great hast: I followed slowly; and coming to the Black-water, near the Ford of Fermoy, drew my Foot and Cannon into an old Danes Work; Ire∣land being full of them. Having staid there pretty long, and hearing no News of my Horse, I began to be uneasie. But remembring that I had a Guard of Horse on some Beeves, that were for the Provision of the Army, I sent for them. And at the same time, unex∣pected, came Garrot Garrow with my old Life-Guard of Horse to me out of Leinster. These and those making in

all a hundred, I presently took with me, to see what became of the Troops sent with Purcel. But first I ordered fifteen hundred Foot to stand in a readi∣ness. Then finding by the Track, that my Horse had passed the Ford, and ta∣ken their way towards Castle-Lions: I followed. Being come near the Top of the Hill above the Ford, I left these few Horse I had with me drawn up; and with some Officers went my self to the height to discover. Thence I saw all the Enemy formed in a great plain, with a shrub wood before them: and my Horse in hast, Marching through to Charge, having with them a hundred Commanded Foot. But the Enemy seeing the Squadrons broken, as they came on the plain, gave them no time, but Charged and Defeated them. On sight of this disorder, and the Ene∣my pursuing, when they came near me, I advanced, Crying out to my own men, that they should Rally behind me. The Enemy, seeing these Fresh Horse, and not knowing but the Ar∣my

might be near, pursued no farther, but drew up. The fifteen hundred Com∣manded Foot that I had sent for, soon came to me. On sight of which the Enemy retiring to Castle Lions, I fol∣lowed; but could not engage them, it beginning to be dark. Hence I March'd to Malloe and took it, but with some shot of Cannon, and left a Garison in it. Donerail and Liscarrel made no re∣sistance. But Miltown, a better place and a good Garison, stood out. So that I thought it would cost some trouble. But whilst the Batteries were preparing, 2 or 3000 Boys belonging to the Army that use to form themselves into Battal∣lions, having gotten Crows of Iron, Pickaxes, and other Instruments, a little before Sun-set fell on the place, intending as I think, only to have ta∣ken the Cows and Sheep within a Court, which was walled. But Success carried them farther, and they took the Castle by strong hand. So all that side of the Black-water being cleared, I sent the Army for some days into Quarters of

refreshment: & I went my self to Kilmal∣lock, and other places where my Maga∣zines were. In the mean time my Lord of Inchiquin, having taken Rosstellan, besieged Ballymarter, a Castle belong∣ing to his Unkle, Edmund Fitz Gerrald Senescal of Imokelle. My Army being come together, I March'd to succour it. But there being a Flood in the Black-water, I was hindred for two days. So that when I came in sight of the place, I found it taken, and burning, and the Enemy retreating, some to Cork, others to Youghal.

Having thus lost my design of Suc∣couring the place, and that, which I wisht most, Engaging the Enemy: I staid Encamped near this burnt Castle two or three days: thinking what to do. At length I got intelligence, that Colonel Henry Obryan Brother to the Lord of Inchiquin, and Lieutenant Colonel Courtney, with several other Officers, were come by Boat to Rostellan to make merry: and that, the Tide fallen, their Boats were a ground, and so would con∣tinue

till High-Water. On the certainty of this I lost no time, but sent immedi∣ately a Party to seise the Boats, lying more than Musquet-shot from the Castle; following as fast as I could with the Ar∣my: which being come up, I presently fell to the work, planting my Guns: the Batteries made by my Lord of Inchi∣quin not being destroyed. In the morn∣ing the places yielded on discretion. Hence I March'd to Castle Lions: which after some battering yielded. I took my March then towards Lismore. But Cony-Castle lying on a Pass in my way, and sending, on Summons, a desiance, I Encamped before it: thinking to plant my Guns that Night. But the Boys eased me of the Trouble, and took it before it was dark by Storm, as they did the former. I wrote again to the Governour of Lismore, to put that place into my hands, that I might turn the Army another way; having as much kindness for the owner as he could have. But, not prevailing, I invested it. And, having ordered the Batteries, left Lieu∣tenant

General Purcel to Command, and trie if he could have better Success with that place now, than formerly he had had, when he Besieged it; and so rode to Kilkenny, as not willing to be present at the destruction of a House, where I had formerly received very many Civilities. At my return, being five or six days after, I found the place yielded, and the Garison Marching out. After which, being Encamped at Tallow, Intelligence was brought that Colonel Mac William Ridgeway, was gone from Cork into the County of Limbrick with a great Party of Horse and some Foot. I Marched immediately with all my Horse, and fifteen hundred Foot, straight for Cork. Coming near, I left the Foot to make good my Re∣treat. About an hour in the night I arrived near the Gates; and put my self on the way to Malloe; by which Mac William was to return: and gently Marching, met some of the Enemy. They being charged made no resistance: but the night being extreme∣ly

dark, scattered. So, little execution could be done upon them; though some were killed, and others taken. In this blind Scuffel Captain James Brown, Brother to Sir Valentine Brown, a brave Gentleman, was slain. By the Priso∣ners we found that their Commander Mac William Ridgeway had been killed that day, shot out of a Castle in Roches Country. Which way they had taken to return with the Body, we could not find. We marched a little forwards; but it being so dark that nothing could be done, I return'd with my Party to Tallow, and March'd the Army towards Youghal. All Castles on the way submitted on easie Terms. I will only take notice of one, because of the acci∣dent; though I have forgotten the name of the place. I remember it was a Castle that yielded early in the morn∣ing without resistance. Now presently after the yielding of it, the Weather being very fair, I went a Hunting; leaving Colonel Henesey to see the Quarter made good; which was to

March with their Arms, bag and bag∣gage. But the Soldiers having been used to taking of places by strong hand, and so enriching themselves by Plunder, would have done the like by this, though it had Conditions. To prevent any such matter, the Colonel and several Officers went into the Castle, joyning with the Garison in its defence. But the Foot nevertheless fell on: and great shooting there was on all sides. Which I hear∣ing returned in hast, thinking my Lord of Inchiquin had attempted something. The Soldiers seeing me come sooner than they expected, ran all into the Woods adjoyning. When I came to the Castle, and Colonel Henesey had related the matter, I made the Garison March out, according to their Con∣ditions. Then I began to enquire after my Mutineers, causing the Trumpets to sound, and Drums to beat, for draw∣ing all to their Arms. Some time it was before these Gentlemen, could be gotten together. Being now in order of a Battel both Horse and Foot, I went

from Battallion to Battallion telling them their Fault: and what the con∣sequence might have been: and con∣cluded that they all merited Death. Which they acknowledging, I added, that some Justice must be done: and asked them, whether they were con∣tented for examples sake to deliver two out of each Battallion, as it should fall amongst them by Lots. They agreed. But when they came to be Shot, I thought the number too great, and made them throw again for two only; which Suffered. Being come before Youghal, I Encamped loosly, thinking to distress the place: and towards the Sea near Crokers works, I sent Major General Butler with fifteen hundred men, and some small pieces to hinder Succour that might come by Sea. Whilst this was doing, I in a night with a Party and two peices of Cannon, past the Black Water at Temple Michael: and before day had my two Guns plan∣ted, at the Ferry point over against Youghal, and within less than Musquet∣shot

of two Parliament Frigats. At the second shot one blew up. But the Town, endeavouring to requite my Kindness, in a morning fell on Major General Butler, and took one of his Guns. Soon after this came a Fleet of Boats, and bigger Vessels sent by my Lord of Inchi∣qnin from Cork, with supplies of Men and Provision, and succosred the Town. On which I March'd off, and Tris••led out the remain of the Campagne in destroying the Harvest. Only a Par∣ty of my men attempted to plunder the Great Island near Barries Court. But being ill guided in Passing, and the Sea Coming in sooner than they counted, their design failed. Besides there were of the Enemy that opposed their coming on the firm Land. Captain Turlough Obryan was killed by a loose shot, out of a Castle in the Island. Now it being the latter end of November the Snow falling, I retired to Capper-Quin. And Commissioners being come to lay out Winter Quarters for the Army: I left it and repaired to Kilkenny. Thus end∣ed

my Mounster expedition, and the last that I served under the Confederate Catholicks. Whose Kindness and Con∣fidence in me, I shall never forget, but acknowledge it where ever I am.

SECT. VI.

The Peace of 46. Proclaimed. Lord Lieutenant comes to Kilkenny. That Peace opposed at Waterford, Limme∣rick, &c. Lord Castlehaven sent to the Nuncio; but in vain. He advises the Lord Lieutenant to March back to Dublin with all speed: waits on his Excellency all along: and carries the Sword before him through that City. The Nuncio Marckes with two Armies to Besiege it; but comes short of his expectation. Lord Lieutenant Treats and concludes with the Parlia∣ment Commissioners. Castlehaven goes for France. Lord Lieutenant's admira∣ble steddiness, and most loyal constancy. He departs for England, & thence a lit∣tle after to Paris. Glamorgan's Peace

discover'd, but not allowed by Him. The breach of the 46 Peace how fatal.

SInce the Cessation there was always a Treaty of Peace held on with the Marquess of Ormond Lord Lieutenant, and, after many Obstructions, at length concluded; since called the Peace of 46. Which being Proclaimed both at Dublin and Kilkenny, his Excellency came to this Town, accompanied with many No∣ble men and others, with twelve hun∣dred Foot, and two hundred Horse The Supream Council received him with all due respect, and surrendred their Government to him. But this Sun-shine lasted not long. The News was brought, that those of Limbrick had rejected the Peace, declaring for the Popes Nuncio: and had stoned the King at Arms, going to Proclaim it. Clonmel shut their Gates on the same Score. General Owen Roe O Neal, being proud by a late Victory he had gained over the Scots in Ʋlster, declared also for the Popes Nuncio. Preston General of Leinster, being at Birrh in the

Kings County, lookt very cloudily; yet had Correspondence with my Lord Lieutenant; but withal excusing his aten∣dance on pretence of some Indisposition.

The Popes Nuncio Joannes Baptista Rinuccini Archbishop and Prince of Fermo, being at Waterford in the head of a great Congregation of Archbishops, Bishops, and other Clergy men Secular and Regular: and having by his Ex∣communications thus broken us: the Lord Lieutenant by the advice of the Commissioners of Trust, sent me to trie if I could persuade him to let the Peace go on. But all I could do was in vain; he declaring his Resolution to oppose it to the utmost. For all this my Lord Lieutenant continued his design of going into Mounster, and I think to Limbrick, and March'd with all his Par∣ty. But coming to Carrick a house of his own, Word was brought him there, that Mac Thomas had declared for the Nuncio, and was drawn up near Clon∣mel with three or four hundred Horse. I was sent to him by his Excellency, as

thinking my Interest might have gained something on him, because he had ser∣ved most of the Wars under my Com∣mand. When I came and delivered him my Message, he answered me, that he was engaged with the Nuncio, according to his Conscience, and would not quit him. I acquainted his Excel∣lency with this answer, and that I saw no hopes of reclaiming this man. Yet my Lord Lieutenant would go on, and took his March towards Cashel; Mac Thomas Marching for the most part in sight of us. Coming near the Town, and making halt, his Excellency re∣ceived Notice, I think, from my Lord Dillon, residing at Athlone, that O Neal was Marching against him with all the force he could make. Where∣upon my Lord was pleased to call me to him: & telling me his intelligence askt my opinion what was to be done. I gave it quickly, that he should immediately March back the shortest way, and en∣deavour to gain Laughlin Bridge. He followed my advice. And, passing near

Kilkenny, sent his brother Sir George Hambleton and my self, to let the Ma∣gistrates of that City know what In∣telligence he had from all hands. How∣ever if they pleased, he would come to them, with the Party he had, and ven∣ture his Fortune with them. They re∣ceived the Message with all kindness and duty: and answered, that if he pleased to come to them, they would serve him with their Lives; though they did believe, it would be the loss of him and them together. On our report his Excellency kept on his March for the gaining of Laughlin: where there was a Bridge that crossed the Ri∣ver of the Barrow, and a Fort at the end, on the County of Catherloe side, Commanded by Colonel Walter Bagnal. Having gained this point, we lost no time in our March to Dublin. Where, coming near, I think the whole people of the City came forth to meet his Excellency, with as much joy as ever man was received; having for several days judged him and his Party

lost. Coming near the Subburbs, his Excellency honour'd me with carrying the Sword before him through the Ci∣ty, and into the Castle. I can give no reason for it (besides his own goodness) other than that, I had been always a promoter of the Peace, and the only of the Confederate Catholicks, that came with him, and never left him in these his Adventures. The Nuncio now thought all his own: committing to several Prisons such of the late Su∣pream Council and others as he called of Ormonds Party. And having gotten his Forces together, March'd them in one Army though they took, for their bet∣ter conveniency in their March, two different ways towards Dublin, O Neal and Preston as Generals Commanding under him. They were noised so nu∣merous and powerful, that in good earnest the people, Officers and Soul∣diers did not know what to make of it, and shewed apprehension enough. His Excellency perceiving this, as it was too plain, called for me: and we dis∣coursed

the whole matter. I took the boldness to give my Opinion. Which was, That this Army of the Nuncio could no longer subsist in any place then as they found Provision, where they came. That neither of his Generals ever had any Magazines during the War. That they undertook this matter, in Confidence of the plenty they should find in his Quarters. That I thought it was a thing of too great hazard to oppose them in the Field; and yet if they were not stopped, they would come on, and at least live upon him till they had eaten all. Lastly, that on conside∣ration of the whole, I thought it best to prevent their coming too near. Which could not be done any other way then by destroying the Quarters. His Excellency was of the same Opinion: and therefore sent Orders immediately, to all people within eight Miles of the Town, to bring in whatever they had: giving them three or four days for it. And what was found abroad after the time prefixt, Parties were ordered to burn and

destroy; particularly Forrage and Mills: for now all the Harvest was in. This was all effected, before the Nuncio and his Army were come to Kilcullin-Bridge. And yet how disappointed soever they were they advanc'd as far as Leixlip and Newcastle: both which places, lying within three Miles di∣stance one of an other, and six from Dublin, they made their Head-quarters: Preston at Leixlip, and Owen O Neal at Newcastle: the Nuncio with his Council remaining at Seginstown, some six Miles farther off. But not being able to live long by the Air: for from their own Coun∣tries they expected not much: and the continual rains and prodigious swelling of the River Liffy, hindering that little that was coming to them (for all the Bridges over it were broken and great jealousies (even more than the ordi∣nary old ones) arising 'twixt the two Generals, and 'twixt the Nuncio also and Preston: they returned several ways, in greater hast than they came.

The Quarters being destroyed; and

Athlone betrayed to the Nuncio by Dil∣lon, a Fryer; and the Harbour of Dublin blockt up by Parliament Men of War: my advice was ask'd by his Excellence in this extremity, with which of his Enemies he should Treat? I answer'd, that I was confident he had resolved that before, there being no question in the case. For giving up to the Parlia∣ment, when the King should have Eng∣land he would have Ireland with it; but to the Nuncio and his Party, it might prove far other ways, and the two King∣doms remain separate.

What weight this discourse had, I know not. But immediately my Lord Lieu∣tenant engaged himself in a Treaty with the Parliament.

During which Treaty, his Excellency was forced to March into the County of Westmeath, and other parts to feed his people. Where we were not much at our ease. For by Owen O Neal we were kept in continual Alarme.

Now all being agreed for the delive∣ry of the places under his Command to

the Parliament, I took my leave of his Excellency resolving to go for France: though with much grief of heart to leave this Noble Lord, who had shewn so much Loyalty, Justness and steddiness in his proceedings during these Tran∣sactions; even from the meeting at Seginstown, to the Conclusion of the Peace, made with the Confederates; and now again to the giving up of his Go∣vernment to the Parliament. For which I doubt not but he shall remain in Sto∣ry, as he deserves, a Fixed-star, by the light of which others may walk in his steps.

But alass! whilst this Noble Lord was acting above board with the Con∣federates, there was another Game playing under him and in the dark be∣tween the Earl of Glamorgan, and those of the Nuncio's party. This Earl I know did pretend large Commissions from the King. But of his Treating a Peace, it was so secret that I never knew it (though I was at that time of the Suprcam Council) till that after the

Archbishop of Tuam was killed, the Peace made with him was known at Dublin; it being found in the Arch∣bishops Pocket; and the benefit of it earnestly pretended by the Nuntio and his Party, but as resolutely refused and rejected by my Lord Lieutenant. This Peace goes by the name of Glamor∣gans Peace. However the Nuntio having this colour, improves it: and by his Emissaries of the Clergy insinu∣ates to the People, his threats of ex∣communicating those that should accept of Ormonds Peace, as they called it. This broke and divided the Catholicks extremely. Which the Nuncio per∣ceiving, followed it with a Thundring Excommunication to that effect.

Now let the failour of this Peace lie at whose door it will, 'tis no rashness to say, That Story mentions not any one thing that had so fatal a conse∣quence. For if this Peace had gone on, the King had presently been supplyed with great forces from Ireland, both of English and Irish: and so probably

might have been prevented, the ensuing mischiefs that shortly after happen'd both to him and all his Loyal Subjects throughout his Dominions.

But the Irish had a more particular ill Fate than the rest by this breach of Faith. For albeit they, discovering their Error, did, not long after, mighti∣ly endeavour to make amends the best they could by a second and very solemn Agreement; which their Commissio∣ners signed, and themselves confirmed and Sealed it with the blood of more than twenty Thousand of their best men, who lost their lives to maintain it: refusing in the mean while all offers of Peace, and that even to the very last, from the Parliament: yet since his Ma∣jesties happy Restauration, their Estates are, by the Acts of Settlement, given away; some very few excepted. As if all the Confederate Catholicks of Ireland had been as guilty as those who begun the Rebellion of the North: or as those that were the only Authors of breaking the Peace of 46.

SECT. VII.

Private Treaties 'twixt Inchiquin and Taaf. Agents sent to Paris from the Confederates. Ormond return'd, and the Peace of 48. concluded. By it Castlehaven made General of the Horse. With 5000 Foot and a 1000 Horse he regains Mary-Borough, Athy, and all Leix from Owen O Neals people. Lord Lieutenant Marches to Dublin. Some difference happen'd in point of Command, makes Castlehaven withdraw. The uproar at Kilkenny suppress'd by him.

THe Marquess of Ormond, having perform'd Agreements with the Parliament, left Ireland: and, after some time spent in England, went to France. At St. Germains he attended the Queen, and Prince of Wales. It was not long before my Lord of Inchi∣quin, having some discontent given

him by the Parliament, entred into secret Treaties with the Lord Taaf, (since made Earl of Carlingford) and other General or Principal Leaders amongst the Irish: who, since the re∣jection of the Peace, having lost two great Battels, the one at Dungan's-Hill, (alias Linch's Knock) under General Preston, the other at Knock na Noss un∣der my Lord Taaf (albeit this Noble∣man had never been either of Owen O Neal's Party, or the Nuncio's; and then had fought against the Parlia∣ment) considering also they had lost in both those Battels eight Thousand men at least, kill'd down right, besides Prisoners: and looking on these great losses of their side, as heavy judgments of Heaven to punish the late unparal∣lel'd breach of Publick Faith; begun to be as weary of the Nuncio, as my Lord of Inchiquin was of the Parliament. Wherefore they concluded to contrive the Marquess of Ormond's return: and, when he was come, to declare for the King. To this end Agents are sent

from the Confederates to France, viz. the Marquess of Antrim, the Lord Vis∣count Muskry, and Jeffrey Brown Esq; Upon their offers, the Queen and Prince of Wales dispatch'd my Lord Lieute∣nant to Ireland. Accordingly he shipt at Haver-de-Grace in a States Man of War, and Landed at Cork: my self and many others attending him. My Lord of Inchiquin was then with the Army in the Field, but soon came to him; I went before to Kilkenny. Where with∣out delay, but not before his Excellency also was come thither, a new Treaty was set on Foot, between him and the Irish; an Assembly of them sitting at that time in the Town. After many disputes and reasonings (which is not my business to relate) a Peace was con∣cluded, called since the Peace of Forty eight. What Agreement there was between my Lord Lieutenant and my Lord of Inchiquin I know not. But am sure, that my Lord of Inchiquin deman∣ded of my Lord Lieutenant all Mounster, for the recruiting and strengthening

his Army: and had it. By which the Irish standing Regiments of that Pro∣vince came to little or nothing.

But to introduce my own Story, I am to tell you, That in the Peace of Forty six there was an Article by which it was left to the Confederate Catholicks to name certain persons, for General Offi∣cers, to whom my Lord Lieutenant was to give Commissions. Now I having served them long, as has been seen by the Story; and the same Article being confirmed in this Peace: they named me, as they had done in the for∣mer, to be General of the Horse of the Kingdom of Ireland. Which his Ex∣cellency approved, and accordingly gave me a Commission, and soon after sent me into the Queens County with five Thousand Foot, a Thousand Horse and some Cannon to reduce the Fort of Lease, (otherwise called Mary-Borough) Athy and other Garisons, possest by O Neals people. These Troops, for the most part, were Commanded by Sir Tho. Armstrong, Colonel Treswel,

and other English Officers: men that had always followed my Lord Lieute∣nants fortune: and had been recruited and reinforced out of their Winter-Quarters, as Kilkenny and some Coun∣ties about.

With them having well executed my Order, without any considerable re∣sistance, I Marched to Laughlin-Bridge, and Encamped, giving an account to his Excellency what had pass'd: and that I would there expect his farther Orders. But 'twas not many days, before my Lord Lieutenant, the Lord of Inchiquin, Lieutenant General of the Army, the Lord Taaf Master of the Ordnance, Mr. Daniel O Neal Go∣vernour of his Excellencies Guards of Horse, with other Generals, and the whole Army of my Lord Inchiquin, and some Irish Regiments joyned us. So with a goodly Train of Artillery, we passed the River Barrow, and that night Encamped in the County of Catherloe. Where something pass'd in point of Command, that gave me ground to

judge my self wronged. Besides I was harassed by my Marches and Labours in the Queens County. In consideration of which, his Excellency, at my re∣quest, gave me leave to retire, for the refreshing my self: and his Excellency Marched on and invested Dublin.

But, being returned to Kilkenny, I found the City in an uprore. The oc∣casion, and issue of it, take as followeth. One Father Caron, at that time Com∣missary General of the Recollects all over Ireland, being in Kilkenny, to re∣form the abuses of some of his Order there, was by the Commissioners of Trust desired to remove one Brenan, and six or seven more, out of the Monastery of that Town, and send them elsewhere to be kept under Discipline. The reason of this desire was, That those men, were notoriously known to be still most vio∣lent sticklers for the ways of the Nuncio: and that they made it their business to incense the people anew against the Peace; alienate them from the Govern∣ment; and draw them wholly to Owen

O Neal, who yet stood out against all agreement with the King.

To satisfie so just a demand of the Commissioners, Father Caron appoints a day for Brenan and his Associates to depart Kilkenny, and go to the several other Convents, which he had appointed for them. And because he found by their Answers, they were resolv'd not to obey him: the Commissioners of Trust, upon notice thereof, more effectually resolve to force their obedience to his Commands, by sending them away conducted by Guards, but yet Guards of Roman Catholick Souldiers, to the Convents appointed them by him, who was their undoubted Spiritual Supe∣rior.

Of this resolution of the Commissio∣ners of Trust, Brenan and his refracto∣ry brethren having timely notice: and seeing very well there was no sence for them against this flail, but by that of some extraordinary means: and then reflecting on their interest, as Natives in the Town; for three or four of them

were so, as one, by name Rooth, was Brother to the Mayor: besides, consi∣ding mightily in the common people, whom they had already possess'd with many lies: but above all persuading themselves, that no Catholick durst at∣tempt to violate the Sanctity of their Habit, or priviledge of their profession, by laying violent hands upon them; and Protestants there were none in Town at that time; which they knew very well: what do they conclude at last? even very Religiously to raise a most dangerous Tumult: and that by the most damnable malicious lye that could be forged.

When the day appointed was come, they by themselves and their Emissaries, inform the heads of the rabble abroad, and throughly possess them, That the Commissary and Father Peter Walsh, with some five or six more of their Company, men that had always stood up for the Kings Government, had privately introduced a number of the Ba∣ron of Inchiquins Protestant Irish Soul∣diers

into their Convent, and there clothed, in the Habit of that Order, all of them like Friers; of purpose to seise at night those few Religious men that remain'd unalterable in their obedience to the Apostolick See: and for that cause, and unknown to any, at such a time of darkness and silence, either to drown them in the River Neoir that runs by their Garden; or wasting them over it by Boat, to lead them to a more cruel Death elsewhere, in some unknown place.

This lie enslam'd so the meaner sort in the Town and Suburbs (pretty well, before it, prepar'd by many other inven∣tions) that upon a suddain vast num∣bers of them force their way into the Monastery, cursing & exclaiming against those that would turn away their Friends. And then, arming themselves with what ever came next to hand; and with all fury imaginable attacking a little Castle, whereinto the Commissa∣ry with his company had withdrawn, they force this too. Nor could Lieu∣tenant General Bellew and Captain

Dillon hold out long. These two Gen∣tlemen, so soon as they saw the door of the Castle flying open, rush'd in among the first, and with their Swords drawn plac'd themselves on the narrow stairs that lead up to the Garret; whether the Commissary and his Associates were now gotten. But the odds was too great, and their two Swords were too short and weak, against so many more spits and poles. So they also being beat from their Post; the Commissary, and Fa∣thers with him had no retreat, but to the Battlement, through the Garret window. The shutter of this window was pretty thick and of Oak: and for that reason fastened by them, as well as they could, in the outside towards themselves. Which they had scarce done, when the Assailants, gotten up to the Garret, with stones and rafters pelt at this last defence.

And now the Fathers, utterly despair∣ing of life, lay themselves on their knees, praying to God, and shrieving one an other. Onely Father Walsh put him∣self

in another posture. Which was, Standing at a corner of the Battlement, and Speaking and Preaching thence as from a Pulpit to the people: not only discovering their great Error, and re∣presenting the horrour of what was a doing; but upbraiding them also with the greatest ingratitude imaginable to∣wards himself. And then asking them (for it began to be dusky) did not they know him, that lived so many years among them? Or were they ig∣norant, it was he that was chiefly sought for to be murdered? And yet did not they remember, it was he alone that with the hazard of his own life, but two years before, did save them all? Their Mayor and Aldermen from being hang'd at their Gates by Owen Roe O Neal? Their whole City from being Sack'd by his then victorious exaspera∣ted Army? And their Castle from either receiving in an Ʋlster Garrison; or be∣ing seiz'd upon a few days after, by the Nuncio himself in person?

To this utmost extremity were these

Besieged Fathers brought, only one sin∣gle Window leaf, a board that was not a∣bove an inch thick, and it a forcing too, parting them and Death: when I had the good Fortune to rescue them. For, just in that nick of time, I came to Town, ac∣companied with two or three Trumpets, about a dozen Horse, with five or six Gentlemen (of which Sir George Ha∣milton was one) and some Footmen. And, being inform'd of the matter, I Gallop'd presently with those of my Company to the place; had a charge sounded; and fell in among the Rab∣ble, firing of Pistols, and crying Kill, kill, kill. The multitude hearing the Trumpets, and seeing the fire (for 'twas now grown dusky) and knowing my voice, found themselves surpriz'd, and thought themselves betray'd; as knowing the Army to be far off in their March to Dublin; and therefore imme∣mediately routed and run away; though they had brought those in the Castle so low; that (to speak within compass) they could not hold out half a quarter of

an hour. These Fathers being thus re∣lieved, after four hours defence; I in∣quired who Governed this Siege: and found it to be seven or eight Fryers in a house by, the chiefest of them the forementioned Brenan, and Rooth. I call'd for them down. And whilst I was speaking, came to my assistance the Town Major, one Archer, with a hun∣dred Musquetiers, and presently fol∣lowed the Mayor and Aldermen. Whom after I had ratled soundly for suffering this disorder, I Commanded to lay hold of these Friers and carry them Prisoners to the Castle. At which they staggering, and this Brenan a stur∣dy Frier, saying he would fain see what man durst, Toutch his Habit: I laying hold on him said, Lies the Enchantment there? And after this the Mayor, Town Major, and all the rest carried them away Prisoners to the Castle, as I had appointed.

SECT. VIII.

He returns to the Army. Inchiquin Marches to Mounster with 1100 Horse from the Siege of Dublin. That Siege rais'd. Cromwel landed at Dublin, takes Drogheda by Storm. The Lord Lieutenant forms a good Army in the County of Kilkenny. In∣chiquin worsted at Glascarrig. Castle∣haven relieves Wexford: which after is betray'd by Stafford. Castlehaven relieves Duncannon: and the Siege of it raised. Cromwel takes Ross, and thence Marches to the County of Cork, where all the Towns open to him. Tickle's Treacherous underta∣king. Castlehaven made Commander in Chief of Leinster. He Storms Athy. Gowran betray'd to Cromwel. The Plague raging at Kilkenny, Crom∣wel Besieges and takes it by composition. Castlehaven's Orders not obeyed; he goes to my Lord Lieutenant in the County of Clare.

NOw after a while that I had di∣verted my self a Hunting, I re∣paired to Limbrick: and there lay; causing by fair and foul means all peo∣ple both in that City and County, to bring in what remained, due to the King of their Aplotments. Having got ten Thousand pound together, I de∣livered it to Sir George Hambleton Treasurer of the Army. My Lord Lieutenant now wrote to the Commissi∣oners of Trust sitting at Kilkenny to let me know, that I should come to the Army, and that all difficulties concern∣ing Command should be removed to my Satisfaction. I obeyed, and Sir George and my self with our ten Thousand pound went to the Army; which we found in their March, removing from the Phenix side of Dublin to Rath Mines, where they Encamped.

But my Lord of Inchiquin, soon after acquainted his Excellency with some Letters he had received from his Offi∣cers in Mounster, that Cromwel was to

land there. Which if so, all his Towns would revolt, if not prevented by his speedy repair thither, with some or all his Army. In Order to this, my Lord of Inchiquin desired his Excellency's Consent that he might March away with eleven hundred Horse: and his Excellency imparted all to me. At which I was infinitely surprized, allead∣ging the whole Army too weak for the work in hand. I remember my Lord Lieutenants Answer. But 'tis not my business to speak more of this Subject, having been always kept a stranger to the undertaking of this Siege. 'Tis enough for me to tell you here, that my Lord of Inchiquin with eleven hundred Horse March'd away: and you may imagine many more. Soon after this, happen'd the Defeat before Dublin.

And, not long after, that, Cromwell with his Army Landed there; March'd to Tredath; and took it with all the Towns in those parts. My Lord Lieu∣tenant, not being able to stand before him, retired with what Troops he had

to the County of Kilkenny. Where my Lord of Inchiquin came to him, and in a short time they formed a good Army. For, besides my Lord of Inchiquins For∣ces, many Ʋlster Regiments of Foot joyn∣ed them: Owen O Neal having by this time, though too late for himself and the King's service, come in upon Ar∣ticles, which he sign'd upon his Death∣bed, after he had been rejected by the Parliament.

Cromwel being retired to Dublin re∣fresh'd his Army; sitted himself for a new undertaking; and took his March by the Sea side through the County of Wicklowe to Besiege Wexford. My Lord of Inchiquin was sent to oppose him. They met on the Strand in the County of Wexford towards Glascarrig: fought; and my Lord was Worsted.

My Lord Lieutenant being with his Army come to Ross, and fearing a want of men within Wexford; I, knowing the Town and Country about it, offer'd to attempt the Relief. My Lord ac∣cepted my good Will, and ordered me

as many Regiments of Ʋlster Foot, as made fifteen hundred men. The Co∣lonels were my Lord of Eveah, and one Mac Coffre, also I think another, and appointed two hundred Horse to escort us. I took a great compass and came before day to the Ferry, near Sir Thomas Esmond's house called Ballin-Treman, who as I remembred was with me. Then leaving the Horse for my return, I Passed that Arm of the Sea in Boats: and having delivered the Foot to Sir Edmund Butler the Governor; I took the same way homewards as I came.

The Town thus Manned was Im∣pregnable, as to Cromwel by force. Yet he took it by the advantage of a Castle that was betray'd unto him by the Governour, one James Stafford. This Castle, was strong, and stood about two or three hundred Paces from the Wall. The Communication with the Town could not be Cut. So that the Danger was least there, if Treachery had not been in the Case. But the

Castle being betray'd, it Mastered all that part of the Wall. So Cromwel's Force••s entred, and made almost as great a Slaughter as at Drogheda.

My Lord Lieutenant then with his Army, retired over the River of Ross, and encamped on the County of Kil∣kenny side. From whence his Excellen∣cy sent me into the County of Water∣ford to Passage, over against Bally-hack, to look after the relieving of Duncan∣non, Besieged by some of Cromwels peo∣ple; I think Ireton Commanded. And for all there were Parliament Ships be∣fore it, I ventured one morning with a Boat, and got into the place, to the Governour a brave Gentleman, one Colonel Wogane, whom my Lord sometime before had sent to Command: and with him, besides the Irish Gari∣son, about a hundred English Officers, who had served the King in the Wars of England. He from the highest part of the Rampart, shewed me how the Enemy lay. After I had well considered all, I offered to send him that night by

Sea, eighty Horse Sadled and with Pistols, if he would mount them with so many of his English Officers, and be∣fore day, with them and some Foot, make a sharp Sally. He lik'd it ex∣tremely, but doubted my part, for putting in the Horse, it being about three miles by Sea. I bad him leave that to me.

Having thus concluded, I took my Boat, returned, and set my self to my Business. The Tide serving at the be∣ginning of the night, and having pro∣vided Boats, I Commanded eighty choice Horse to come to the Sea side. Where, making the Horsemen alight, I caused the Horses to be Boated, send∣ing some to hold them. They entred the Place, and all was executed as de∣signed; great Slaughter made, and the Cannons seised. For the Confusion amongst the Enemy was great, by rea∣son that they judged it, the falling in of an Army from abroad, hearing and see∣ing horses, and knowing none to be in the Fort. Our people retiring before

day, the Enemy raised the Siege in the morning, and Marched off.

His Excellency shortly after this, made me Governour of Waterford: whi∣ther I went, with a Thousand men. But the Town would not admit them entrance. On which I, after several days dispute, being in despair, Marched away in the night.

All this while the Armies were not idle. For Cromwel, after the rendition of Wexford, came to Ross: making a breach, took it: passed the River there: Marched through the County of Kil∣kenny to Carick: and passing the River of the Shower into the County of Water∣ford, March'd on into the County of Cork; where all my Lord of Inchiquins Towns opend their Gates to him.

The particular actings between the Armies, I must leave to those that know better; for I was seldom with them, but imployed up and down, as you see. The persons principally intrusted by my Lord Lieutenant for the Government of the Army, were my Lord of Inchi∣quin

and my Lord Taaf, till the Spring following.

Then Cromwel began to move again, having drawn his Forces toge∣ther: and had gained one Captain Tickle to secure him a Gate or two of Kilkenny, when he should think sit. The Plague strangely raged now in this City: as it had done for a long time in all our Towns. And Cromwel, having left his Garisons in the County of Cork, in good Order, was advanced into the County of Tipperary, in his way to the Siege of Kilkenny. I, having nothing to do, went one morning ear∣ly a Fox-Hunting, as I was accustomed all the Winter. My Lord Lieutenant joyning me in my way, said, he would see what we did. Being a little farther out of Town, he began to tell me how he had discovered this Treachery of Tickle; Cromwels approach; and his design to Besiege this place. After some discourse it was not long, before my Lord came to the point, and told me that it was resolved in Council that

he should immediately repair into the County of Clare, & from thence and the adjacent Countries endeavour theraising an Army to attend the Motions of Cromwel: and that, in his absence, he should appoint me Commander in chief of the Province of Leinster.

Any man may judge how I was plea∣sed, with this honour. But my obe∣dience, though I thought my self lost by it, obliged me to a Submission. So I cast my self at my Lords Feet to dis∣pose of me as he pleased. The Com∣mission with all necessary Orders di∣spatched, his Excellency with his Gene∣rals and Commissioners of Trust left Kil∣kenny, and went straight to the County of Clare.

I lost no time, and bestirr'd my self, making Major James Walsh Governour of the Castle, and Sir Walter Butler of the City. I did all I could to furnish it with Men, Provision, and Ammu∣nition of all sorts: then March'd out my self leaving the Garisons strong,

about two hundred Horse and a Thou∣sand Foot.

Cromwel now having left Cashel, and being on his March to Callen, I went to Catherlow, hoping to have met there such Troops from all parts of the Pro∣vince as I had ordered. But those Quar∣tered in the lower Divident under the Command of the Lord Dillon, intirely failed, being about the number of two Thousand five hundred Foot, and six or seven hundred Horse: and in their stead I received a Letter from his Lord∣ship, as if he were sending them in great hast. But they never came, though I repeated often my Orders.

These, and other Troops not appear∣ing, I knew not well what to do. For I had only with me 800 Foot of the Province, and an Ʋlster Regiment of twelve hundred more. Sir Thomas Armstrong Commissary General of the Horse, a brave Commander, was my chief Counsellor. His Regiment, with my Lord Lieutenants Commanded by Colonel Treswel, and some other

Troops, made up near a Thousand Horse.

At this time an Irish man was brought unto me, taken by some of my Guards; who, being to be examined, desired to speak with me alone. Which being granted; he produced a piece of yellow Wax, in form almost round; which he was to swallow on occasion. Within it there was Note from Huson to Crom∣wel, intimating that he with his Forces were on their March from Dublin to∣wards him; but desired his Orders in respect that I lay in his way. Having Copied the Note, I roul'd it in the Wax, as I had it. And the fellow having assured me of his return with Cromwels answer I trusted him, & suffer'd him to go on his way. The second or third day he came to me, and deli∣vered me another piece of Wax, as the former, with Cromwel's Order to Huson inclosed; which I kept. However Huson held on his March, and pass'd the River Barow eight or ten Miles be∣low me.

Now though I was not of strength to meddle with his Army, I made some advantage of my Intelligence, and Marched to Athy a Town with a Bridge eight Miles above on the same River; where Huson had a Magazine, with seven hundred men in Garison: and, coming before it about an hour before Sun-set, I took it by Storm, with all the Garison Prisoners at discretion. But the place not being tenable, I slighted it: and not knowing what to do with my Prisoners, I made a Present of them to Cromwel; desiring him by Letter, that he would do the like with me, as any of mine should fall into his power.

But he little valued my Civility. For in a very few days after he Besieged Gowran, where Colonel Hammond Com∣manded: and the Souldiers Mutining and giving up the place with their Offi∣cers, he caused this Gouernor Hamond and some other English Officers to be shot to Death. Which being done, and all other places in the County of

Kilkenny cleared by him, he salls to work and Besieges Kilkenny it self. Whereupon I took my March to Baliraget within 7 Miles of him. But finding my self too much exposed there, I Marched into Osso∣ry, and made my head Quarter at Castle∣town, a place belonging to Mr. Fits Patrick. Whence I sent again to the Lord Dillon to come unto me with all the Force he had. He gave me still fair promises (as before) but never came. I then with the advice of Sir Thomas Armstrong and Colonel Treswel, resolv'd with my Party to enter Kilkenny. Which was easie to be done; the side where the River runs being open, but when I came to our Rendevous, my Ʋlster Regiment appeared not, but were Marched away to their own Country; alleadging they came to Fight against men, but not against God. Their meaning was because of the Plague.

This Design being thus broken, and a great breach made in the Wall near the Castle, which had been assaulted

two or three times, and no hopes ever to be Succoured; I sent Orders to the Go∣vernors to make Conditions when they thought fit, and both to joyn at the same time, though the Castle might hold out two or three days longer than the Town.

Cromwel being thus Master of Kil∣kenny, I retired into the Kings County. Where, understanding that Carloe Castle was Besieg'd, I appointed a Ren∣devous; intending to attempt the Suc∣cour. But coming to the place, I found not half my Foot. The rest were March'd into Mounster, I know not by what order.

Now finding my self thus used: and reflecting on several other hardships put upon me since the Peace of 48 in de∣spair of success, I left Leinster, and went to my Lord Lieutenant in the County of Clare. Where I rendred him an account, how I had been failed, to the end he might do as he thought fit.

SECT. IX.

Made Commander in Chief of Mounster, and Limbrick receiving him, Ireton raises his Siege that night. Tran∣sports 2000 men by Boats into Kerry. Persuades Clanrickard to accept of the Government. Sends Orders to the several Provinces; which are not obeyed. Passes with 1000 Horse through Limbrick to the Silver Mines: and how this design failed. Hinders the General Assembly from Agreeing with the Parliament. Relieves Te∣crochan; and Fox hang'd. Ireton sitting down again before Limmerick; he defends the Pass at Killaloe. Sent for to Galway, hinders the agreement with the Duke of Lorrain. Return'd to Killaloe receives Letters from Ire∣ton, and answers them; but is betray'd at Bryan's Bridge by Captain Kelly, and at Killaloe by Colonel Fennel. Athlone given up, and Galway be∣sieged,

he is sent from Clanrickard to the King. The Kings Answer, and Orders to Clanrickard. On which Castlehaven takes Service under the Prince of Conde. Reflections.

I Had not been long there attending his Excellency, before Ireton sate down before Limbrick, on the County of Limbrick side, leaving Tomond's side open. His Excellency repaired thi∣ther: and, being come near the end of the Bridge, sent to the Mayor, to let him know that he was there, with some Troops, and ready to enter with them for the defence of the place. The Mayor having consulted his Brethren, made excuse as if they had no need of relief. Several Messages pass to and fro, till at length his Excellency losing all pa∣tience, declared unto them that if they would not receive and obey him, he would leave the Kingdom. All would not do. And so, turning aside, he called me to him, and told me that he was in good earnest, and would be gone: but Com∣manded

me to stay, and keep up a Bussel as long as I could; it being the Kings Service. I was very unwilling to remain behind, seeing he took with him my Lord of Inchiquin, my Lord Taaf, Colonel Daniel O Neal, and other his friends. But the sound of the Kings Service so Charmed me, that I aban∣don'd my own Judgment, and submit∣ted to what his Excellency should Or∣der. He then gave me a Commission to be Commander in chief of the Pro∣vince of Mounster, and the County of Clare; having before that of Leinster. Thus qualified, together with my be∣ing General of the Horse of the King∣dom, his Excellency gave me Possession of his Troops there standing in their Arms, together with his Life-Guard to serve me as they had done him; and, as I counted, they were in all about two Thousand Foot, and a Thousand Horse. His Excellency for my better encou∣ragement assured me, that he would leave a Commission for my Lord of Clanrickard, to be Lord Deputy.

Now my Lord being gone, and not suffering me to accompany him more than a Mile, I went into the Town addressing to the Mayor and Aldermen. I told them how I was left, and ask'd them whether they were pleased with it, and would obey me? They took no long time to consult, but submitted themselves to my pleasure. On which I immediately visited their Walls: and at the same time took a view of the Enemy: whom I judged to be very loose and exposed, if vigorously assault∣ed. On which, I resolved, in the first of the night, to draw my Troops into the Town, and a little before day to make a sharp Sally. On what Intelli∣gence, I know not, but Ireton raised his Siege, and marched off in the night. This done, I returned my Troops to their Quarters and remained my self in the Town, till I had sent my Orders to all Officers, command∣ing in the several Provinces, and par∣ticularly to my Lord of Muskry then in Kerry, ordering him to make him∣self

so strong as he could, and that I would soon be with him to encrease his Forces. Which I performed, passing the Shanon about twelve miles below Lim∣brick, with two thousand men. And though the River was full of Parlia∣ment Ships and two miles over, yet I had not the least loss. 'Tis true I took the night, and landing in Kerry near Drombeg, I marcht till I came to my Lord of Muskry at Tralie. Having acquainted him with what had past, and ordered what I would have done, particularly in raising of Forces, I left my men with him, and returned to Iniss, my Residence in the County of Clare.

Where being come, and a little re∣fresh'd, I went to Portumne to visit the Marquess of Clanrickard, and came there before Dinner. He bad me very Welcome. After Dinner, I desired to retire my self for an hour or two. He brought me to my Chamber, and asked, Whether it would not be trou∣blesome that he took a Pipe of To∣bacco

by me; I said, no, but the con∣trary; yet, shewed my self melan∣choly. He did what he could to di∣vert it: but I pretended withal not to be very well, and spake to a Ser∣vant of his that stood at the Door, to bring me a Glass of Sack: My Lord was much pleased with that, and cal∣led for a Bottle.

Now, my Point was to get him to take the Government, by accepting the Commission left by my Lord Lieu∣tenant: yet I speak nothing of it, hoping he would begin; which he did. The passages on this subject are too long to relate here. But be∣fore we parted, I got him to send to the Commissioners of Trust, (these were men named by the Confederates, and agreed to by my Lord of Ormond to see the performance of the Articles of Peace) then sitting at Loghreah, re∣quiring them to send him his Com∣mission: for he would take upon him the Government. And to lose no time, I gave him the best account I

could of the Forces in the Kingdom, as well Friends as Foes. For he during the War had been no more than a Spe∣ctator, beloved and respected of all, and might have so continued, had not his great Loyalty drawn him to take up this Commission: which was little less than to Sacrifice himself and his, only to give the King time to trie his for∣tune with Cromwell: their Armies be∣ing near Sterling in Scotland, Encamp∣ed near together, as the Kings Letters to us imported, brought by Deane King, an Express newly come. We agreed at this meeting, that his Lord∣ship should immediately raise a thou∣sand Horse as an addition to the Stand∣ing Forces of Conaught, and that I should march with my thousand Horse, out of the County of Clare to the Silver Mines in the County of Tippe∣rary, passing through Limbrick in the night, and be at such a day and hour at the Rendevous, and there I should meet fifteen hundred Foot, that he would send with a good Officer. His

Part was little more than crossing the Shanon at his door, and marching four or five miles; no Enemy in those Parts.

I complied punctually with my Or∣der, and the Mayor of Limbrick, as I marched through the City, on demand gave me a hundred Foot. The Alarm of my March was soon given to Sir Hardress Waller, or my Lord Brochil, or both, lying near Kilmallock with great Forces. They pursued me; and I coming to our appointed Rendevous, no news there was of the fifteen hun∣dred Foot. Having lost this Anchor, I was put to my Wits ends. But not having much time to think, the Ene∣my coming on, I resolved to thrust into the next Fastness, and save my self as well as I could. But there was a Castle of the O-Machers that stood in the way, possest by the Enemy. And there being no other passage, I sent to the adjacent Villages, and got toge∣ther Crows of Iron, Pickaxes, and what else that could be found necessary; and making my Horse-men to alight,

I fell a Storming the Castle. Which with the Assistance of the Limbrick Foot, in three or four hours time was yielded. I left my hundred men in this place to secure the Pass. Now being pretty safe, I lodg'd that night at my ease, where Collonel Fitz Pa∣trick came to me, who had for some time kept in those Fastnesses with a good Party of Foot and some Horse. My men being well refreshed, I took the plain Countrey near Burras: and after entring the Woods at the foot of the Mountain Sleau Bleauma, I met Sir Walter Dungan then Commissary General of the Horse, as was Ordered. He brought with him only three hun∣dred Horse; but I finding my self still pursued with Horse and Foot, besides what were gathering round on all sides, I took leave of Sir Walter, ordering him to return from whence he came, and to stop all Forces that I had sent for, as well from Ʋlster as Leinster. So I with my thousand Horse marched into Conaught, passing by the Bridge

of Athlone. Being there, I posted to Loghreah, where my Lord Deputy was, with a General Assembly sitting in his House. I, coming into his Chamber, found with him about a dozen princi∣pal men of the Assembly deputed to him; setting forth the desperate Estate of the Nation, with the impossibility much farther to hold out. Besides, that there were now come to the Town, Mr. John Grace, and Mr. John Bryan Commissioners from the Parlia∣ment, or their Commander in Chief, offering greater Conditions than was reasonably to be expected, as the case stood. Whilst this Address was ma∣king, my Lord was glad to see me come in, and ordered them to repeat what they had said. I seemed much scandalized at the ill timing of their Proposals: and therefore presently de∣clared my dislike to it. Then by my Lords permission, weary and dirty, as I was, I went down into the Assembly, as a Peer being a Member, and ex∣prest my detestation of what they had

in hand: demonstrating, that if those fifteen hundred men, commanded by one Collonel Burk had not failed, I had probably now been Master of the Field: besides, that the noise of a Treaty might destroy all what could be hoped for of good from the Kings Endeavours against Cromwel; that His Majesty, as his own Letters spoke, both to my Lord Deputy and my self, made no doubt, if he could gain fourty eight hours march before Cromwel to∣wards England, his business was done, because all were ready there to joyn in assisting him. And, that he therefore, conjured us not to hearken to any Trea∣ty with the Enemy. Then I set forth the state of the Forces of the Kingdom on all sides, and concluded very severe∣ly against the two Parliament Commis∣sioners. So that they hastily packt out of Town, and the Assembly let the matter fall.

Reynolds now besieged Tecrohan in Meath; and my Lord Deputy came to Tyrrels Pace about twelve miles from

it, with two thousand Foot and seven hundred Horse. A Councel of War being held, I proposed, that our Horse should alarm the Enemy, whilst the Foot attempted to succour the Place, taking their March through the Bogs. 'Twas alledged by all impossible to be done. For coming near the place, there were two necks of Land that did almost meet: and that between them there was a great Way or Tougher, with a large Ditch of Water on each side, which must be ccossed: and that in all likely hood the Enemy would plant their Guns on the firm Land, at both ends of this Tougher, and bring the strength of their Army to defend that Passage; there being no other way, seeing we had not force to attempt them on the firm Land. I heard all this, and knew it well; yet, did not agree to the Impossibility of entring the place. Then addressing my self to the Deputy, I begged pardon if I guessed at the thoughts of the Officers present; which was, that I being Ge∣neral

of the Horse might well ad∣vance this Undertaking: For, I was to be with the Horse, and so to have no share in this Danger. But to shew them the contrary, I desired his Ex∣cellency to give me the Command of this party of Foot; which he did: and himself to march with the Horse to alarm the Enemy on another side. It being thus determined, I entred the Bog (which was eight miles long) with my two thousand Foot, and his Excellency took his March as was agreed. Coming in sight of this Tougher, I found the Enemy expecting as we had supposed, for they saw me Marching from the first entring into the Bog. I then put my men into the best Order I could in three Divisions: two to attempt passing the Tougher, the third to stand still, faceing two or three Battallions, that were drawn on my right hand; fearing they would fall on my Flank or Rear. I March'd on with my two Divisions. Coming within Shot, they raked me with their

Cannon, and great Volleys of small Shot. But I advanced still, and my men fought it on the Tougher with handy blows, making those that De∣fended it, retire to their Horse which stood drawn up at each end of the Tougher or firm Land. Seeing this go so well, I look'd back, and saw my third Division, which was to stand still, coming after me. I ran to it, crying to the Officer that Commanded, to attack the Battallions which he was commanded to look after: on this, he turned to his men, and spake something in Irish that I do not know, and March'd two or three hundred Paces, in such a fashion, that I could not tell whether he intended Fighting or Run∣ning away. But coming to the Point where he must declare, he plainly run away, and all his Party followed him. which when the two Divisions, that had passed the Tougher saw, they March∣ed on into the Place: and I was left alone, only some Gentlemen with me; and by the favour of the night, for

now it began to be dark, I got off: and by the next morning returned to Terrils Pace, where I had left my Lord Deputy: who had all the Story before my coming, and sending out took this Captain that had caused this Dis∣order; who, by a Council of War be∣ing condemned, was shot to Death. His name was Fox.

After this Ireton was not idle, knowing our weakness too well, and that I did only keep up a Bussel, till the King and Cromwel had decided their Quarrel. He therefore again sate down before Lim∣brick, with a powerful Army, on the County of Limbrick side. I, with what Force could be drawn together, March'd to Killalow, and there En∣camped. He kept a Guard on his side the River, as I did against him at Bry∣ans-Bridge, and Castle Conel. We lay in this manner a long time: he attem∣pting nothing either on the Town, or River, which was not yet for deable in any place.

My Lord Deputy, being at Galway,

sent me a Letter in all hast to come to him. On my Arrival he told me, that the Abbot of St. Katherine was in the Harbour, and in his Company many Officers with a quantity of Arms, Am∣munition, and other Materials for War. That they were sent by the Duke of Lorrain, who pretended by some agreement to be Protector Royal of the Kingdom of Ireland, with Power over all our Forces, and Places. And that he was to continue that Title and Do∣minion till after the War ended, he were reimburst all his Expences; and his Damages satisfied. I was much startled at this News. For though I strugled to keep up a Bussel, I never intended to buy it so dear as to give Footing, or colour of Pretence or Title to any Foreign Prince. And having heard my Lord all out, I took the bold∣ness to ask him, how far he was con∣cerned in this matter. He protested before God, and upon his Honour, that he never gave Commission for any such Treaty: and, as to the thing he

knew no more than what he had told me, other then that the General Assem∣bly then sitting in the Town, were in great joy for this Succour, and prest him earnestly for the reception. But I found him entirely against it.

Being thus satisfied, I desired him to leave the matter to me, and let me deal with the Assembly. Immediately there∣fore I went and found them on the De∣bate. To which in my time I spake, and with much Detestation of the thing, declared all Traytors that were for re∣ceiving this succour on those terms: and that I would not sit more to hear of this Stuff, but return to my Forces, know∣ing what I had to do. My Lord De∣puty was much pleased with this round Discourse: and publickly approved it. So the Abbot with what he had return∣ed from whence he came.

At my return (which was without delay) to Killalow, I found all quiet. And, whether Ireton had Information of this Passage, I know not; but by a Trumpet I received from him a long

Letter, four sides of Paper close written in a small hand. The drift was, to set forth the justness of the Parliaments proceedings; their great Power; how short a time I could subsist; what ill Company I was with, and threw what durt he could on the King I served, but concluded with great value of my person; pitying my Condition, and offering me, that if I would retire and live in England privately, I should not only enjoy my Estate, but remain in safety with the esteem and favour of the Parliament. I immediately shewed this Letter, to Father Peter Walsh, my then Ghostly Father, whom I had al∣ways found faithful to the King, and a lover of his Country. With his ad∣vice, by the same Trumpet, I answered all his Points: and rejected his propo∣sition concerning my own person: de∣siring him withal to send no more Trumpets with such Errands, if per∣haps he would not have the Messenger ill Treated. From this time there was an end of all Messages and Letters between us.

Now Ireton remained still and quiet, without any action or attempt, expect∣ing the coming of Sir Charles Coot on my back, or the fall of the River. Both came together, and besides that, a third unlucky accident. For now some days I had kept Guards towards Conaught, when Ireton, by Treachery of the Officer one Captain Kelly, made himself Master of Bryans-Bridge. 'Tis called so, though there be no Bridge. Whilst I was hastening with some Troops to oppose, having left the de∣fence of the Pass at Killalow to Colonel Fennel, he cowardly or Treacherously quitted it, and with all his Party fled into Limbrick. Where, upon the ren∣dition of the Town, which was not long after, Ireton with more than his ordinary justice, hanged him. Some say he was carried to Cork, and that it was done there. He pleaded for his Defence, not only this Service, but how he had betrayed me before Toughal. But his Judges would not hear him on his Merit, but bid him clear himself

of the Murders laid to his charge.

Now receiving Letters from my Lord Deputy, of Sir Charles Coots approach; I hastened to him with what Troops I had left, viz. about three hundred Horse, and found him drawn into Loghreah with his Forces, not being able to keep the Field against Coot, who was twice his number. The Enemy did not think fit to attempt him, and were gone by, be∣fore my coming. About this time Athlone gave up to them: and so did Limbrick to Ireton some few Months after. In the mean while my Lord Deputy and my self, with what Troops we had, retired towards Jerchonnoght, under the Covert of the River that runs by Galway: and so shifted up and down, till Sir Charles Coot came before the Town on Loghreahs side, and had taken a Castle a little above on the Ri∣ver. Then we retired into Galway. Where we had not long been, before we heard of the Kings Defeat at Worcester.

A man now would think, that this Noble Lord had discharged his part. Yet

his Zeal carried him farther. He di∣spatch'd me for France to the King, by the way of Iniss-bofin for the River of Galway was full of Parliament Ships) with orders to set out the ill state of his Majesties Affairs in that Kingdom. And that nevertheless to serve his Majesty, he intended after Galway should be lost, to make a Mountain War, and give the Enemy trouble for some time; if his Majesty would but send him five hun∣dred Barrels of Powder, with Match and Bullets proportionable, and some Arms, and appointed me to return with them to Iniss-bofin, a fit place for our Ma∣gazine: it being a large Island, lying of Jerchonnoght three Miles into the Sea; in which we had a strong Garison. 'Tis surrounded with Rocks: and has but one entrance; where there is a pretty good Harbour for Frigats and small Men of War. I here Shipped my self, and landed at Brest, ordering the Fri∣gate that brought me to expect my orders. The Captain was Antonio Van∣dersipp of Brugis. We had a sharp fight

with an English Ship that we met in the way, but foul weather parted us. No great hurt was done, other than that the Bishop of Down was Killed in the Cabbin, 'tis thought by the Wind of the Bullet or Fear, for he had not the least sign of any hurt, and lived near a quarter of an hour.

Being Landed, I took post for St. Ger∣mains, where I found the King, Queen∣Mother and my Lord of Ormond. I de∣livered my Letters of Credit, and in a day or two had my Audience. They seemed to take it to heart, and Con∣sulted Cardinal Mazerine, and the chief Ministers. But the truth of it is, that the King of France's Affairs were at that time so much in disorder, by reason of the Civil War, that nothing could be done. Having this Answer, the King gave me a Letter to my Lord Deputy, acknowledging his good Service: or∣dering him that he should make the best conditions for himself and Party that he could: and expect a better sea∣son. Having thus discharged my

Commission, I dismiss'd my Frigate: and with the Kings permission, enga∣ged my self in the Service of the Prince of Conde; who was then joyned with the Spaniard. But first, I sent by a safe hand his Majesties Letter away to my good Lord of Clanrickard. Of whom I have said so much already, that I need add nothing but my own esteem for his worthy Memory as a pattern of Loyalty. Between my leaving him, and his laying down Arms, I can give no account; but have heard that he was driven to great extremity.

SECT. X.

Some few Reflections more of Castlehaven on himself. And the last of all is an acknowledgment of a most extraordi∣nary favour of God to him.

ANd so I have done my Story. And you find by these Memoir's, that no man could arrive to greater Trust

and Credit than I had amongst the Irish; though the War till the Peace of Forty Six was almost National. And then they made me what they could, by naming me to remain General of the Horse of the Kingdom, in the Kings Service. Which was a Right left to them by that Peace.

It remains now, that I give those few Reflections more upon my self, which may let the Reader know, to what, next God's blessing, I impute that esteem and fortune I had among the Confederate Catholicks of Ire∣land.

In my beginning I was a great Party∣man. But considering my self and Sol∣diers but young beginners, I meddled with nothing that was not almost sure: remembring that young Hawks must be entred on weak game.

Having Marshal-law, it was certain Death to take from any of our Friends the worth of a Hen. But withal I had care that my Soldiers should not want.

If any thing happen'd of that kind,

I sent out a Party with a sure Officer, to bring in so many Beefs: and at his return to tell me where he took 'em. Then I issued my Order to the Com∣missioners, to applot on the County or Barony, from whence the cattle came, their value, and immediately to satis∣fie the Owners; which was always allowed out of their Contributions. This I held constantly during the War.

An other of my Rules, no less punctually observed, was, That if by accident any want fell out to be in the Army, I kept no Table, and eat no better than the Soldiers did. Though otherwise, I did generally keep a good Table: and my Officers were welcome to me.

I never took the worth of a crown for my self, either from Country-man, Officer, or Soldier; but lived still up∣on my bare Pay. Though the Coun∣cil never stinted me; but left me at liberty to take besides, what I should think fit out of the Treasure, that com∣monly March'd along with the Army,

and was disposed of by my Orders.

I was a good Providore, and had my Magazines well furnished, and seated as I was to make the War. For men eat every day, but Fight seldom.

My Soldiers I called my Children: and really had a Fatherly love and care for them. And they by their duty, bravery, and affection, made me a full return.

I punisht severely; which made my Orders to be well observ'd: and rewarded bountifully, according to my power.

If an Officer, or Soldier, had done a brave Action: I treated the Officer some days at my Table: and took all occasions by talking to im∣prove his glory; and seldom either Officer, or Soldier went without advancement, or other reward.

I made it my business always to March and Encamp so, as not to be engag'd to Fight: without an enemy would come on great disad∣vantage.

My Intelligence and Spies cost me very dear. But I had good.

Whenever I Fought, or had a mind to Fight; coming in view of the Enemy, and being in order of Battle, I rode to all the Battallions and Squadrons, to observe their looks. And then,

with a cheerful countenance, acquainting them them truly with what I knew of the Enemy, and our Condition, I told them my own opinion for Fighting: and, if they liked it, I would go on; otherwise, not. This I did to engage them in judgment, as well as duty.

I made it my business to get my Troops good Winter-Quarters. But, during the Field, I was very strict in my Musters. And ever and anon, being not in danger of an Enemy, I made the Battallions and Squadrons March by Com∣panies: that I might know their number just. For a General will be cozen'd if he brings his men to Fight on sworn Relations.

I suffer'd no Officer to take from a Soldier the worth of a penny. I do not remember, that, during the time I serv'd the Consederate Ca∣tholicks, they ever gave me any Instructions what I should do; but left all to my self. Which made their business go the better.

I shall now conclude these Reflections, with the greatest Reflection of all, which is on my infi∣nite obligation to Almighty God; who hath so protected me, that to this hour, neither in those Wars of Ireland, or any other that I have been in since, either Army, or Party of Army, great, or small, was ever beaten so by an Enemy, as to lose their ground to the end of the Fight, where I Commanded in Chief.

FINIS.