Basiliká the works of King Charles the martyr : with a collection of declarations, treaties, and other papers concerning the differences betwixt His said Majesty and his two houses of Parliament : with the history of his life : as also of his tryal and martyrdome.

HIS MAJESTY'S LETTERS.

I. To the House of Peers, about the Reprieve of the Earl of STRAFFORD: Sent by the PRINCE.

From White-Hall, May 11. MDCXLI.

My Lords,

I Did yesterday satisfie the Justice of the Kingdom, by passing the Bill of Attainder against the Earl of Strafford: But Mercy being as inherent and inseparable to a King as Justice, I desire at this time in some measure to shew that likewise, by suffering that unfortu∣nate man to fulfil the natural course of his life in a close Impri∣sonment; yet so, that if ever he make the least offer to escape, or offer directly or indirectly to meddle in any sort of publick bu∣siness, especially with Me, either by Message or Letter, it shall cost him his Life without further Process. This, if it may be done with∣out the discontentment of My People, will be an unspeakable con∣tentment to Me.

To which end, as in the first place I by this Letter do earnestly desire your approbation, and to endear it the more, have chosen Him to carry it that of all your House is most dear unto Me: So I desire, that by a Conference you will endeavour to give the House of Com∣mons contentment; likewise assuring you, that the exercise of Mercy is no more pleasing to Me, than to see both Houses of Parliament content for My sake, that I should moderate the severity of the Law in so important a case.

I will not say that your complying with Me in this My intended Mercy shall make Me more willing, but certainly it will make Me more chearful, in granting your just Grievan∣ces. But if no less than his Life can satisfie My People, I must say, Fiat Justitia.

Thus again recommending the consideration of My intentions to you, I rest,

Your unalterable and affectionate Friend, C. R

White-Hall May 11. 1641.

If he must die, it were charity to reprieve him till Saturday.

II. To the QUEEN.

OXFORD, January 23. MDCXLII. III.

Dear Heart,

SAturday and Sunday last I received two from Thee, of the 29. of December, 9. of January, both which gave Me such contentment, as Thou maist better judg than I describe: the which that Thou maist the better do, know, I was full three weeks, wanting but one day, without hearing from Thee; beside scurvy London news of Thy stay and lameness, which, though I did not believe, yet it vext Me so much the more, that I could not prove them ly∣ars. So now I conjure Thee by the affection Thou bearest Me, not only to judg, but likewise participate with Me in the contentment Thou hast given Me by assuring Me of Thy health and speedy return.

Concerning 45. 31. 7. 4. 132 300. I will answer Thee in Thy own words, Je be remette∣ray a vous respondre per bouche, being confident that way to give Thee contentment: In the mean time assure Thy self, that I neither have nor will lose any time in that business, and that I have not contented My self with generals.

And though I hope shortly to have the happiness of Thy company, yet I must tell Thee of some particulars in which I desire both Thy opinion and assistance. I am persecuted concerning Places, and all desire to be put upon Thee, for the which I cannot blame them; and yet Thou knowest I have no reason to do it. Newark desireth Savil's place, upon con∣dition to leave it when his Father dieth; Carenworth the same, being contented to pay for it, or give the profit to whom or how I please: Digby and Dunsmore for to be Captain of the

Pensioners; Hartford once looked after it, but now I believe he expects either to be Treasu∣rer, or of My Bed-chamber; I incline rather to the latter, if Thou like it, for I absolutely hold Cottington the fittest man for the other. There is one that doth not yet pretend, that doth deserve as well as any, I mean Capel; therefore I desire thy assistance to find somewhat for him before he ask. One place I must fill before I can have Thy opinion; it is the Master of the Wards. I have thought upon Nicholas, being confident that Thou wilt not mislike My choice: and if he cannot perform both, Ned Hyde must be Secretary, for indeed I can trust no other.

Now I have no more time to speak of more, but to desire Thee not to engage Thy self for any. So I rest, Eternally thine,

C. R.

Oxford, 2. Feb. 23. Jan.

III. To the QUEEN.

OXFORD, February 13. MDCXLIII.

Dear Heart,

I Never till now knew the good of Ignorance, for I did not know the danger that Thou wert in by the storm, before I had certain assurance of Thy happy escape; we having had a pleasing false report of Thy safe landing at Newcastle, which Thine of the 19. Jan. so confirmed us in, that we at least were not undeceived of that hope, till we knew certainly how great a danger Thou hast past, of which I shall not be out of apprehension, until I may have the happiness of Thy company; for indeed I think it not the least of My misfortunes, that for My sake Thou hast run so much hazard: In which Thou hast ex∣pressed so much love to Me, that I confess it is impossible to repay by any thing I can do, much less by words: but My heart being full of affection for Thee, admiration of Thee, and impatient passion of gratitude to Thee, I could not but say something, leaving the rest to be read by Thee out of Thine own noble heart.

The intercepting of Mine to Thee of the* 1.1 23. February has bred great discourse in seve∣ral persons, and of several kinds: as My saying I was persecuted for places, is applied to all and only those that I there name to be Suitors; whereas the truth is, I meant thereby the importunity of others whom at that time I had not time to name, as well as some there mentioned: for I confess 174. and 133. are not guilty of that fault. Some find fault with too much kindness to Thee (Thou maist easily vote from what Constellation that comes) but I assure such, that I want expression, not will, to do it ten times more to Thee on all occasions. Others press Me, as being brought upon the Stage: but I answer, that having profest to have Thy advice, it were a wrong to Thee to do any thing before I had it.

As for our Treaty (leaving the particulars to this inclosed) I am confident Thou wilt be content with it as concerning My part in it; for all the Souldiers are well pleased with what I have done: but expect no Cessation of Arms, for the lower House will have none without a disbanding, and I will not disband till all be agreed.

Lastly, for our Military affairs, I thank God that here and in the West they prosper well: as for the North I refer Thee to 226. 140. information.

So daily expecting and praying for good news from Thee—

Oxford 13. Feb. 1643.

Copy to My Wife, February 1643.

IV. To the QUEEN.

OXFORD, Mar. 2. 12. MDCXLII.

Dear Heart,

THough ever since Sunday last I had good hopes of Thy happy landing, yet I had not the certain news thereof before yesterday; when I likewise understood of Thy safe coming to York. I hope thou expectest not Welcome from Me in words; but when I shall be wanting in any other way (according to My wit and Power) of expressing My Love to Thee, then let all honest Men hate and eschew Me like a Monster: And yet when I shall have done My part, I confess that I shall come short of what Thou deservest of Me.

H. 3. 189. e. 3. 42. 17. 25. 27. 39. 21. 66. a. 1. 45. 31. 7. 4. 32. 18. 47. 46. 9. 3. d. 4. g. 4. 46. 35. 67. 48. 7. 40. 5. 43. 74. 3. 41. 7. 33. 62. 8. 63. 68. 50. 64. 34. 9. 51. 45. 69. 46. 37. deer. 45. 31. 7. 1. 33. 18. 49. 47. 19. 21. 10. 70. 13. 7. 45. 58. 8. 3. 41. 10. this a. 2. 324. in the mean time 46. 31. 7. 50. e. 3. 20. 3. 6. 8. 48. 75. 41. 9. 2. upon 60. 19. 50. 61. 27. 26. 7. 69. 12. 19. 47. 45. 8. 24.

Yesterday there were Articles of a Cessation brought Me from London, but so unreaso∣nable that I cannot grant them: Yet to undeceive the people by shewing it is not I, but those who have caused and fostered this Rebellion, that desire the continuance of this War and universal distraction; I am framing Articles fit for that purpose; both which, by My next, I mean to send Thee.

219. b. 3. 58. 51. 75. 46. 7. 3. 45. 37. 2. 189. 46. 38. 1. g. 1. 173.. 131. which I think fit to be done, a. 5. 4. 30. 3. n. 5. d. 3. 46. 31. 8. 10. 2. 32. 18. 64. 7. 3. 45. 31. 9. 66. 46. 32. 19. 41. 25. 48. k. 1. e. 4. 67. 69. 63. I am now confident that 173 is right for My Service.

Since the taking of Cicester there is nothing of note done of either side; wherefore that little news that is, I leave to others. Only this I assure Thee, that the distractions of the Rebels are such that so many fine designs are laid open to us, we know not which first to undertake. But certainly My first and chiefest care is and shall be to secure Thee, and hasten our meeting.

So longing to hear from thee, I rest, eternally Thine,

C. R.

Oxford 2. 12. March 1642.

The last I received of Thine was dated the 16. 6. Feb. And I believe none of My four last are come to Thee. Their Dates are 13. 3. 23. 13. 25. 15. Feb. and 20. Feb. or Mar. 2.

V. The QUEEN to the KING.

YORK, March 30. MDCXLIII.

My Dear Heart,

I Need not tell You from whence this Bearer comes; only I will tell You that the Pro∣positions which he brings You are good, but 260. I believe that it is not yet time to put them into execution: therefore find some means to send them back, which may not discontent them, and do not tell who gave You this advice.

Sir Hugh Cholmely is come with a Troop of Horse to kiss My Hands; the rest of his people he left at Scarborough, with a Ship laden with Arms, which the Ships of the Par∣liament had taken and brought thither: so she is ours.

The Rebels have quitted Tadcaster upon our sending Forces to Wetherby, but they are returned with twelve hundred men: we send more forces to drive them out, though those we have already at Wetherby are sufficient: but we fear lest they have all their Forces there∣about, and lest they have some design; for they have quitted Selby and Cawood, the last of which they have burnt. Between this and to morrow night we shall know the issue of this business, and I will send You an express. I am the more careful to advertise You of what we do, that You and we may find means to have pass-ports, to send: And I wonder that upon the Cessation You have not demanded that You might send in safety. This shews My Love.

I understand to day from London, that they will have no Cessation, and that they treat at the beginning of the two first Articles, which is of the Forts, Ships, and Ammunition; and afterwards of the disbanding of the Army. Certainly, I wish a Peace more than any, and that with greater reason; but I would the disbanding of the perpetual Parliament first, and certainly the rest will be easily afterwards. I do not say this of My own head alone; for generally both those who are for You and against You in this Country-wish an end of it: And I am certain that if You demand it at the first, in case it be not granted, Hull is ours, and all Yorkshire, which is a thing to consider of. And for My particular, if You make a Peace, and disband Your Army before there is an end to this perpetual Parliament, I am absolutely resolved to go into France, not being willing to fall again into the hands of those People, being well assured, that if the power remain with them, it will not be well for Me in England. Remember what I have written to You in three precedent Letters, and be more careful of Me than You have been, or at least dissemble it, to the end that no notice be taken of it. Adieu. The Man hastens Me, so that I can say no more.

York, this 30. of March.

VI. The QUEEN to the KING.

YORK, Apr. 3. MDCXLIII.

THIS Letter should have gone by a man of M^r Denedsdale, who is gone, and all the beginning of this Letter was upon this subject; and therefore by this Man it signifies nothing: But the end was so pleasing that I do not forbear to send it to You.

You now know by Elliot the issue of the business of Tadcaster: Since we had almost lost Scarborough; whilst Cholmely was here, Brown Bushell would have rendred it up to the Par∣liament; but Cholmely having had notice of it, is gone with our Forces, and hath re-taken it, and hath desired to have a Lieutenant and Forces of ours to put in it, for which we should take his. He hath also taken two Pinnaces from Hotham, which brought 44. men to put within Scarborough, 10 pieces of Cannon, 4 Barrels of Powder, 4 of Bullet. This is all our news. Our Army marches to morrow to put an end to Fairfax's Excellency. And I will make an end of this Letter, this third of April. I have had no news of You since Parsons.

30 March. 3 April.

VII. The QUEEN to the KING.

NEWARK, June 27. MDCXLIII.

My Dear Heart,

I Received just now Your Letter by My Lord Savile, who found Me ready to go away, staying but for one thing for which You will well pardon two days stop; It is to have Hull and Lincoln. Young Hotham having been put in prison by Order of Parliament, is escaped, and hath sent to 260. that he would cast himself into His arms, and that Hull and Lincoln should be rendred. He is gone to his Father, and 260. writes for Your answer. So that I think I shall go hence Friday or Saturday, and shall go lye at Werton, and from thence to Ashby, where we will resolve what way to take; and I will stay there a day, because that the march of the day before will have been somewhat great, and also to know how the Enemy marches, all their Forces of Nottingham at present being gone to Leicester and Derby, which makes us believe that it is to intercept our passage. As soon as we have resolved, I will send you word. At this present I think it fit to let You know the state in which we march, and what I leave behind Me for the safety of Lincolnshire and Notting∣hamshire. I leave 2000 foot, and wherewithal to arm 500 more; 20 Companies of Horse: all this to be under Charles Cavendish, whom the Gentlemen of the Country have desired Me not to carry with Me against his will, for he desired extreamly not to go. The Enemies have left within Nottingham 1000. I carry with Me 3000 Foot, 30 Companies of Horse and Dragoons, 6 pieces of Cannon, and two Morters. Harry Jermyn commands the Forces which go with Me, as Colonel of My Guard, and Sir Alexander Lesley the Foot under Him, and Gerard the Horse, and Robin Legg the Artillery, and Her She-Majestie Generalissima, and extreamly diligent with 150 Waggons of Baggage to govern in case of a Battle. Have a care that no Troop of Essex's Army incommodate us, for I hope that for the rest we shall be strong enough, for at Nottingham we have had the experience, one of our Troops having beaten six of theirs, and made them fly.

I have received Your Proclamation or Declaration, which I wish had not been made, being extreamly disadvantagious for You; for You shew too much fear, and do not what You had resolved upon.

Farewell, My Dear Heart. 27. June 1643.

VIII. The QUEEN to the KING.

BATH, Apr. 21. MDCXLIV.

My Dear Heart,

FRed. Cornwallis will have told You all our voyage as far as Adbury, and the state of My health. Since My coming hither I find My self ill, as well in the ill rest that I have, as in the increase of My Rheum. I hope that this days rest will do Me good. I go to mor∣row to Bristol, to send You back the Carts; many of them are already returned.

My Lord Dillon told Me, not directly from You, though he says You approve it, that it was fit I should write a Letter to the Commissioners of Ireland to this effect, That they ought to desist from those things for the present which they had put in their Paper; and to assure them, that when You shall be in another condition than You are now, that You will give them contentment.

I thought it to be a matter of so great engagement, that I dare not do it without Your command: Therefore if it please You that I should do so, send Me what You would have Me write, that I may not do more than what You appoint; and also that it being Your com∣mand, You may hold to that which I promise: for I should be very much grieved to write any thing which I would not hold to; and when You have promised it Me, I will be con∣fident. I believe also, that to write to My Lord Muskery without the rest will be enough, for the Letter which I shall write to him shall be with My own hand; and if it be to all Your Commissioners, it shall be by the Secretary.

Farewel, My Dear Heart; I cannot write any more, but that I am absolutely Yours.

IX. To the Earl of ESSEX at LESTITHIEL.

LISKARD, August 6. MDCXLIV.

Essex,

I Have been very willing to believe, that whenever there should be such a conjuncture as to put it in your power to effect that happy settlement of this miserable Kingdom which all good men desire, you would lay hold of it. That season is now before you; you have it at this time in your power to redeem your Country and the Crown, and to oblige your King in the highest degree, (an Action certainly of the greatest Piety, Pru∣dence and Honour) such an opportunity as perhaps no Subject before you hath ever had,

or after you shall have. To which there is no more required but that you join with Me heartily and really in the setling of those things which we have both professed constantly to be our only aims. Let us do this: and if any shall be so foolishly unnatural as to oppose their King's, their Country's, and their own good, we will make them happy (by God's blessing) even against their wills.

The only impediment can be want of mutual confidence. I promise it you on My part, as I have endeavoured to prepare it on yours, by My Letter to Hertford from Evesholm. I hope this will perfect it, when (as here I do) I shall have engaged unto you the word of a King that you joyning with Me in that blessed work, I shall give both to you and your Army such eminent marks of My Confidence and value, as shall not leave room for the least di∣strust amongst you, either in relation to the Publick, or your self, unto whom I shall then be

Liskard, Aug. 6. 1644.

Your faithful Friend, C. R.

If you like of this, hearken to this Bearer, whom I have fully instructed in particulars: But this will admit of no delay.

X. To the Prince ELECTOR.

TAVESTOCK, September 17. MDCXLIV.

Nephew,

IT being a Natural curiosity in Me to know the reason of your Actions, I had never so much reason as now to desire it. As I wondred at, so as yet I never knew the reason of your journey from York to Holland: But your coming at this time into the Kingdom is in all respects much more strange unto Me; yet 'tis possible that the latter may interpret the former. And believe Me, the consideration of your Mother's Son is the chief, I may say the only, cause of My curiosity: For as to My Affairs, your being here in the way you are, is not of that importance as to make Me curious to inquire upon your Actions. But the great affection I bear My Sister, being a sufficient reason for Me to desire that all who appertain to Her should give a fair account of their Actions, makes Me now ask you, first upon what invitation you are come, then the design of your coming: wishing by your Answer I may have the same cause and comfort I have heretofore had to be

Tavestock, Sept. 17. 1644.

Your Loving Uncle and faithful Friend, C. R.

XI. To the Marquess of ORMOND.

OXFORD, December 15. MDCXLIV.

Ormond,

I Am sorry to find by Colonel Barry the sad condition of your particular fortune, for which I cannot find so good and speedy remedy as the Peace of Ireland, it being likewise most necessary to redress affairs here: wherefore I command you to dispatch it out of hand, for the doing of which I hope My publick Dispatch will give you sufficient Instruction and Power; yet I have thought it necessary, for your more encouragement in this necessary work, to make this addition with My own hand.

As for Poining's Act, I refer you to My other Letter: And for matter of Religion, though I have not found it fit to take publick notice of the Paper which Brown gave you, yet I must command you to give him, My L. Muskery and Plunket particular thanks for it, assuring them that without it there could have been no Peace; and that sticking to it, their Nation in general and they in particular shall have comfort in what they have done. And to shew that this is more than words, I do hereby promise them, (and command you to see it done) that the Penal Statutes against Roman Catholicks shall not be put in execution, the Peace being made, and they remaining in their due obedience: and further, that when the Irish give Me that assistance which they have promised for the suppression of this Rebel∣lion, and I shall be restored to My Rights, then I will consent to the Repeal of them by a Law; but all those against Appeals to Rome and Praemunire must stand.

All this in Cypher you must impart to none but those three already named, and that with injunction of strictest secrecy. So again recommending to your care the speedy dis∣patch of the Peace of Ireland, and my necessary supply from thence, as I wrote to you in My last private Letter, I rest.

XII. The QUEEN to the KING.

PARIS, January 6. December 27. MDCXLIV. V.

Paris, January,

I Have received one of Your Letters dated from Marleborow of an old date, having received many others more fresh, to which I have made answer. I will say nothing concerning this, but only concerning the affair of Gor. If it be not done, it is time, being very sea∣sonable at this time, which I did not believe before.

I understand that the Commissioners are arrived at London. I have nothing to say, but

that You have a care of Your Honour; and that if You have a Peace, it may be such as may hold; and if it fall out otherwise, that You do not abandon those who have served You, for fear they do forsake You in Your need. Also I do not see how You can be in safety with∣out a Regiment of Guard; for My self, I think I cannot be, seeing the malice which they have against Me and My Religion, of which I hope You will have a care of both. But in My opinion Religion should be the last thing upon which You should treat: for if You do agree upon strictness against the Catholicks, it would discourage them to serve You and if afterwards there should be no Peace, You could never expect succours either from Ire∣land or any other Catholick Prince, for they would believe, You would abandon them after You have served Your self.

I have dispatched an Express into Scotland to Montross, to know the condition he is in, and what there is to be done. This week I send to M^r of Lorrain, and into Holl. I lose no time. If I had more of Your news, all would go better.

Adieu, My Dear Heart.

My Wife, Dec. 27. Jan. 6. 1644. 5.

XIII. To the QUEEN.

OXFORD, Decemb. MDCXLIV.

Dear Heart,

I Know Thy affection to Me so truly grounded, that Thou wilt be in as much (if not more) trouble to find My Reputation, as My Life in danger: Therefore lest the false sound of My offering a Treaty to the Rebels upon base and unsafe terms should disturb Thy thoughts, I have thought it necessary (to assure Thy mind from such rumors) to tell Thee the ways I have used to come to a Treaty, and upon what grounds. I shall first shew Thee My grounds, to the end Thou maiest the better understand and approve of My ways.

Then know (as a certain truth) that all, even My party, are strangely impatient for Peace, which obliged Me so much the more (at all occasions) to shew My real intentions to Peace: And likewise I am put in very good hope (some hold it a certainty) that if I could come to a fair Treaty, the Ring-leading Rebels could not hinder Me from a good Peace; First, because their own party are most weary of the War, and likewise for the great di∣stractions which at this time most assuredly are amongst themselves, as Presbyterians a∣gainst Independents in Religion, and General against General in point of Command.

Upon these grounds a Treaty being most desirable (not without hope of good success) the most probable means to procure it was to be used, which might stand with Honour and Safety. Amongst the rest (for I will omit all those which are unquestionably counce∣lable) the sound of My return to London was thought to have so much force of popular Rhetorick in it, that upon it a Treaty would be had, or if refused, it would bring much prejudice to them, and be advantageous to Me. Yet lest foolish and malicious people should interpret this as to proceed from fear or folly, I have joyned Conditions with the Proposi∣tion (without which this sound will signifie nothing) which Thou wilt find to be most of the chief ingredients of an honourable and safe Peace. Then observe, If a Treaty at London with Commissioners for both sides may be had without it, it is not to be used; nor in case they will treat with no body but My self: so that the Conditions save any aspersion of dishonour, and the treating at London the malignity which our factious spirits here may infuse into this Treaty upon this subject.

This I hope will secure Thee from the trouble which otherwise may be caused by ma∣licious rumours: and though I judge My self secure in Thy thoughts from suspecting Me guilty of any baseness; yet I held this account necessary, to the end Thou maiest make others know as well as Thy self this certain truth, That no danger of death or misery (which I think much worse) shall make Me do any thing unworthy of Thy Love.

For the state of My present affairs, I refer Thee to 92. concluding (as I did in My last to Thee) by conjuring Thee, as Thou lovest Me, that no appearance of Peace (and I now add) nor hopeful condition of Mine, make Thee neglect to haste succour for Him who is eternally Thine.

Copy to My Wife, Decemb. 1644. by Tom. Elliot.

XIV. To the QUEEN.

OXFORD, Jan. 1. MDCXLIV. V.

Dear Heart,

I Receive it as a good Augury thus to begin this New year, having newly received Thine of the 30. Decemb. which I cannot stay to decypher, for not losing this opportunity, it likewise being a just excuse for this short account. This day I have dispatched Digby's Sec. fully relating the state of our affairs; therefore I shall only now tell Thee, That the Rebels are engaged into an equal Treaty, without any of those disadvantages which might have been apprehended when Tom. Elliot went hence; and that the distractions of London were never so great, or so likely to bring good effect, as now; lastly, that assistance was never more needful, never so likely as now to do good to Him who is eternally Thine.

Copy to My Wife, 1. Jan. 1644. by P. A.

XV. To the QUEEN.

OXFORD, 2. Jan. MDCXLIV. V.

Dear Heart,

HAving decyphered Thine which I received yesterday, I was much surprized to find Thee blame Me for neglecting to write to Thee, for indeed I have often complai∣ned for want, never mist any occasion of sending to Thee; and I assure Thee, never any Dispatch went from either of My Secretaries without one from Me, when I knew of it.

As for My calling those at London a Parliament, I shall refer Thee to Digby for particu∣lar satisfaction: this in general, If there had been but two (besides My self) of My opi∣nion, I had not done it; and the Argument that prevailed with Me was, that the calling did no ways acknowledge them to be a Parliament; upon which condition and constructi∣on I did it, and no otherways, and accordingly it is registred in the Council-Books, with the Councils unanimous approbation. But Thou wilt find that it was by misfortune, not neglect, that Thou hast been no sooner advertised of it.

As for the Conclusion of Thy Letter, it would much trouble Me, if Thou didst not know Thy desire granted before it was asked; yet I wonder not at it, since that which may bear a bad construction hath been presented to Thee in the ugliest form, not having received the true reason and meaning of it. The fear of some such mischance made Me the more careful to give Thee a full account by Tom Elliot of the reasons of the D. of R. and E. of S. journey to London, which if it come soon enough, I am confident will free Thee from much trouble: But if Thou hast not the patience to forbear judging harshly of My Actions before Thou hearest the reasons of them from Me, thou maiest be often subject to be dou∣bly vext, first with slanders, then with having given too much ear unto them. To con∣clude, esteem Me as Thou findest Me constant to those grounds Thou leftest Me withal.

And so farewel, Dear Heart.

21. 13.

Copy to my Wife, 2. Jan. 1645. by P. A.

XVI. Copy to the D. of R.

Richmond,

I Thank you for the accompt you sent Me by this Bearer, and have nothing of new to direct you in, but only to remember you, that My going to Westm. is not to be men∣tioned but upon probable hopes of procuring a Treaty with Com. there or thereabouts, and that you mention the security I ask with My coming to Westm. And I hope I need not remember you to cajole well the Independents and Scots. This Bearer will tell you how well our Western and Northern Associations go on; to whom I refer you for other things. I rest.

XVII. To the Marquess of Ormond.

OXFORD, 7. Jan. MDCXLIV. V.

Ormond,

UPON the great rumors and expectations which are now of Peace, I think it neces∣sary to tell you the true state of it, lest mistaken reports from hence might trouble My affairs there.

The Rebels here have agreed to Treat; and most assuredly one of the first and chief Ar∣ticles they will insist on will be, to continue the Irish War; which is a point not Popular for Me to break on: of which you are to make a double use. First, to hasten (with all pos∣sible diligence) the Peace there, the timely conclusion of which will take off that incon∣venience which otherwise I may be subject to by refusal of that Article, upon any other reason: Secondly, by dextrous conveying to the Irish the danger there may be of their to∣tal and perpetual exclusion from those favours I intend them, in case the Rebels here clap up a Peace with Me upon reasonable terms, and only exclude them; which possibly were not counselable for Me to refuse, if the Irish Peace should be the only difference betwixt us, before it were perfected there. These I hope are sufficient grounds for you to perswade the Irish diligently to dispatch a Peace upon reasonable terms, assuring them, that you having once fully engaged to them My word, (in the Conclusion of a Peace) all the Earth shall not make Me break it.

But not doubting of a Peace, I must again remember you to press the Irish for their spee∣dy assistance to Me here, and their friends in Scotland; My intention being to draw from thence into Wales (the Peace once concluded) as many as I can of My Armed Protestant Subjects, and desire that the Irish would send as great a Body as they can to land about Cumberland, which will put those Northern Countries in a brave condition. Wherefore you must take speedy order to provide all the Shipping you may, as well Dunkirk as Irish Bot∣toms; and remember that after March it will be most difficult to transport men from Ire∣land to England, the Rebels being Masters of the Seas: So expecting a diligent and parti∣cular account in answer to this Letter, I rest,

Your most assured constant Friend, C. R.

XVIII. To the QUEEN.

OXFORD, January 9. MDCXLIV. V.

Dear Heart,

SInce My last, which was by Talbot, the Scots Commissioners have sent to desire Me to send a Commission to the General Assembly in Edinburgh, which I am resolved not to do; but to the end of making some use of this occasion, by sending an honest man to London, and that I may have the more time for the making an handsome negative, I have demanded a Passeport for Philip Warwick, by whom to return My answer.

I forgot in My former to tell Thee, that Lenthall the Speaker brags that Cardinal Ma∣zarin keeps a strict intelligence with him. Though I will not swear that Lenthall says true, I am sure it is fit for Thee to know.

As for Sabrian, I am confident that either he or his instructions are not right for Him who is eternally Thine.

Even now I am advertised from London, that there are three or four Lords and eight Commons (besides four Scotch Commissioners) appointed to treat, and they have na∣med Vxbridge for the place, though not yet the particular persons.

I am likewise newly advertised, that General Goring prospers well where he is, and since Monday last hath taken 80 of the Rebels Horse: and upon his advance they have quitted Peterfield and Coudry.

POSTSCRIPT.

The setling of Religion and the Militia are the first to be treated on: And be confident that I will neither quit Episcopacy, nor that Sword which God hath given into My hands.

Copy to My Wife, 9. 19. January, 1644. 5. by P. A.

XIX. The QUEEN to the KING.

PARIS January 17. 27. MDCXLIV. V.

Paris, January 17. 27.

MY Dear Heart, Tom Elliot two days since hath brought Me much joy and sorrow: the first, to know the good estate in which You are; the other, the fear I have that You go to London. I cannot conceive where the wit was of those who gave You this Counsel, unless it be to hazard Your Person to save theirs. But thanks be to God, to day I received one of Yours by the Ambassadour of Portugal, dated in January, which comforted Me much, to see that the Treaty shall be at Vxbridge. For the Honour of God trust not Your self in the hands of these people: And if ever You go to London before the Parliament be ended, or without a good Army, You are lost. I understand that the Propositions for the Peace must begin by disbanding the Army. If You consent to this You shall be lost, they having the whole power of the Militia, they have done and will do whatsoever they will.

I received yesterday Letters from the Duke of Lorrain, who sends Me word, if his ser∣vice be agreeable to You, he will bring You ten thousand men. Dr. Goffe, whom I have sent into Holland, shall treat with him in his passage upon this business; and I hope very spee∣dily to send good news of this, as also of the Money. Assure Your self, I will be wanting in nothing You shall desire, and that I will hazard My Life, that is, to die by famine, ra∣ther than not to send to You. Send Me word always by whom You receive My Letters, for I write both by the Ambassadour of Portugal and the Resident of France. Above all, have a care not to abandon those who have served You, as well the Bishops, as the poor Catho∣licks. Adieu. You will pardon Me if I make use of another to write, not being able to do it; yet My self in Cyphers shew to My Nephew Rupert, that I intreat You to impart all that I write to You, to the end that he may know the reason why I write not to him. I know not how to send great Packets.

My Wife, 17. 27. Jan. 1644. 5.

XX. To My Wife, 14. January MDCXLIV. V. by CHOQUEN.

Dear Heart,

POoly came the 12. 22. Jan. to whose great Dispatch though for some dayes I cannot give a full answer, I cannot but at this opportunity reply to something in Thy Let∣ter, not without relating to something of his discourse.

As I confess it a misfortune (but deny it a fault) Thy not hearing oftner from Me, so ex∣cuse Me to deny that it can be of so ill consequence as Thou mentionest, if their affections were so real as they make shew to Thee; for the difficulty of sending is known to all, and the numbers of each Letter will shew My diligence; and certainly there goes no great wit to find out waies of sending: wherefore if any be neglected more, then our wits are faulty. But to imagine that it can enter into the thought of any flesh living, that any body here

should hide from Thee what is desired that every one should know, (Excuse Me to say it) is such a folly, that I shall not believe that any can think it, though he say it. And for My affection to Thee, it will not be the miscarrying of a Letter or two that will call it in que∣stion. But take heed that these discourses be not rather the effect of their weariness of thy company, than the true image of their thoughts: and of this is not the proposal of thy journey to Ireland a pretty instance? for seriously of it self, I hold it one of the most extra∣vagant proposition that I have heard; Thy giving ear to it being most assuredly only to express Thy love to Me, and not Thy judgment in My Affairs. As for the business it self, (I mean the Peace of Ireland) to shew Thee the care I have had of it, and the fruits I hope to receive from it, I have sent Thee the last Dispatches I have sent concerning it, earnestly desiring Thee to keep them to Thy self: only Thou mayest in general let the Queen Re∣gent and Ministers there understand, that I have offered My Irish Subjects so good satis∣faction, that a Peace will shortly ensue, which I really believe. But for God's sake let none know the particulars of My Dispatches.

I cannot but tell Thee, that I am much beholding to the Portugal Agent (and little to the French) it being by his means that I have sent Thee all My Letters (besides Expresses) since I came hither, though I expected most from Sabran.

I will not trouble Thee with repetitions of News, Digby's dispatch, which I have seen, be∣ing so full. Yet I cannot but paraphrase a little upon that which he calls his superstitious observation: It is this; Nothing can be more evident than that Strafford's innocent blood hath been one of the great causes of God's just Judgments upon this Nation by a furious civil War, both sides hitherto being almost equally punished, as being in a manner equally guilty; but now this last crying blood being totally theirs, I believe it is no presumption hereafter to hope that his hand of Justice must be heavier upon them, and lighter upon us, looking now upon our Cause, having passed by our Faults.

XXI. The QUEEN to the KING.

PARIS, March 13. MDCXLIV. V.

Paris this 13. of March.

MY Dear Heart, since My last I have received one of Your Letters marked 16. by which You signifie the receipt of My Letters by Pooly, which hath a little surpri∣zed Me, seeming to Me that You write as if I had in My Letter something which had dis∣pleased You. If that hath been, I am very innocent in My intention; I only did believe that it was necessary You should know all.

There is one other thing in Your Letter which troubles Me much, where You would have Me keep to My self Your Dispatches, as if you believe that I should be capable to shew them to any, only to Lord Jer. to uncypher them, My Head not suffering Me to do it My self; but if it please You I will do it, and none in the world shall see them. Be kind to Me, or You kill Me; I have already affliction enough to bear, which without You I could not do, but Your service surmounts all. Farewel, My Dear Heart: Behold the mark which You de∣sire to have, to know when I desire any thing in earnest. And I pray begin to remember what I spake to You concerning Jack Barkly for Master of the Wards. I am not engaged, nor will not, for the places of L. Per. and others: Do You accordingly.

13. March 1644.

XXII. To the QUEEN.

OXFORD, Jan. 22. MDCXLIV. V.

Dear Heart,

SInce My last by Choquen I have had no means of writing, and as little new matter. That which is now, is the progress of the Treaty, of which these enclosed Papers will give Thee a full accompt; but if Thou have them sooner from London than Me, Thou hast no reason to wonder, considering the length and uncertainty of the way I am forced to send by, in respect of the other. For the business it self, I believe Thou wilt approve of My choice of Treaters, and for My Propositions, they differ nothing in substance (very little in words) from those which were last; wherefore I need to say nothing of them: and for My Instructions, they are not yet made, but by the next I hope to send them.

Now upon the whole matter, I desire Thee to shew the Queen and Ministers there the improbability that this present Treaty should produce a Peace, considering the great strange difference (if not contrariety) of grounds that are betwixt the Rebels Propositions and Mine, and that I cannot alter Mine, nor will they ever theirs, until they be out of hope to prevail by force, which a little assistance by Thy means will soon make them be; for I am confi∣dent, if ever I could put them to a defensive (which a reasonable sum of money would do) they would be easily brought to reason.

Concerning our interferings here at Oxford, I desire Thee to suspend Thy Judgement, (for I believe few but partial relations will come to Thee) until I shall send some whom I

may trust by word of mouth; it being too much trouble to Us both to set them down in paper.

Copy to My Wife, 22. Jan. 1644.

XXIII. To the QUEEN.

OXFORD, Jan. 30. MDCXLIV. V.

Dear Heart,

SUnday last I received three Letters from Thee, one a Duplicate of the 30. Decemb. ano∣ther of the 6. Jan. and the last of the 14. Jan. and even now one Petit is come with a Duplicate of the last: wherein as I infinitely joy in the expressions of Thy confident love of Me, so I must extreamly wonder that any who pretend to be a friend to Our Cause (for I believe Thou wouldst not mention any information from the other side) can invent such lyes, that Thou hast had ill offices done to Me by any, or that Thy care for My assistance hath been the least suspected; it being so far from truth, that the just contrary is true. For I protest to God I never heard Thee spoken of, but with the greatest expressions of estimati∣on for Thy love to Me, and particularly for Thy diligent care for My assistance: But I am confident that it is a branch of that root of knavery which I am now digging at; and of this I have more than a bare suspicion. And indeed if I were to find fault with Thee, it should be for not taking so much care of Thine Own health as of My assistance, at least not giving Me so often account of it as I desire; these three last making no mention of Thy self.

Now as for the Treaty (which begins this day) I desire Thee to be confident, that I shall never make a Peace by abandoning My Friends, nor such a one as will not stand with My Honour and Safety: Of which I will say no more, because, knowing Thy Love, I am sure Thou must believe Me, and make others likewise confident of Me.

I send Thee herewith My Directions to My Commissioners: But how I came to them My self, without any others, Digby will tell Thee, with all the News as well concerning Mi∣litary as Cabalistical matters. At this time I will say no more, but that I shall in all things (only not answering for words) truly shew My self to be eternally Thine.

The Portugal Agent hath made Me two Propositions: first, concerning the release of his Master's Brother, for which I shall have 50000 l. if I can procure his liberty from the King of Spain; the other is for a Marriage betwixt My Son Charles and his Master's Eldest Daughter. For the first, I have freely undertaken to do what I can; and for the other, I will give such an Answer as shall signifie nothing.

I desire Thee not to give too much credit to Sabran's Relations, nor much countenance to the Irish Agents in Paris; the particular reasons Thou shalt have by Pooly (whom I intend for My next Messenger.)

In the last place I recommend to Thee the care of Jersey and Gernsey, it being impossible for us here to do much, though we were rich, being weak at Sea.

To My Wife, 30. Jan. 1644. 5. by Legge.

Directions for My Uxbridge Commissioners.

First, concerning Religion.

In this, the Government of the Church (as I suppose) will be the chief question: where∣in two things are to be considered, Conscience, and Policy.

For the first, I must declare unto you, that I cannot yield to the change of the Govern∣ment by Bishops: not only as I fully concur with the most general opinion of Christians in all Ages, as being the best; but likewise I hold My self particularly bound by the Oath I took at My Coronation, not to alter the Government of this Church from what I found it. And as for the Churches Patrimony, I cannot suffer any diminution or alienation of it, it being without peradventure Sacriledge, and likewise contrary to My Coronation Oath. But what∣soever shall be offered for rectifying of abuses, if any have crept in, or yet for the ease of ten∣der Consciences (so that it endamage not the foundation) I am content to hear, and will be ready to give a gracious Answer thereunto.

For the second, As the King's duty is to protect the Church, so it is the Churches to assist the King in the maintenance of His just Authority. Wherefore My Predecessors have been always careful (and especially since the Reformation) to keep the dependency of the Clergy entirely upon the Crown; without which it will scarcely sit fast upon the King's Head. Therefore you must do nothing to change or lessen this necessary dependency.

Next, concerning the Militia.

After Conscience, this is certainly the fittest subject for a King's Quarrel, for without it the Kingly Power is but a shadow; and therefore upon no means to be quitted, but to be maintained according to the ancient known Laws of the Land. Yet because (to attain to this so much wished Peace by all good men) it is in a manner necessary, that sufficient and

real security be given for the performance of what shall be agreed upon, I permit you, ei∣ther by leaving strong Towns or other Military force in the Rebels possession (until Articles be performed) to give such assurance for performance of Conditions as you shall judge ne∣cessary for to conclude a Peace: Provided always, that ye take (at least) as great care, by suffi∣cient security, that Conditions be performed to Me; and to make sure that, the Peace once setled, all things shall return into their ancient Chanels.

Thirdly, for Ireland.

I confess, they have very specious popular Arguments to press this point, the gaining of no Article more conducing to their ends than this; and I have as much reason, both in Ho∣nour and Policy, to take care how to answer this as any. All the world knows the eminent inevitable necessity which caused Me to make the Irish Cessation, and there remain yet as strong reasons for the concluding of that Peace: Wherefore ye must consent to nothing to hinder Me therein, until a clear way be shewn Me, how My Protestant Subjects there may probably (at least) defend themselves; and that I shall have no more need to defend My Conscience and Crown from the injuries of this Rebellion.

Oxford, Feb. 1644. Memorials for Secretary Nicholas concerning the Treaty at Uxbridge.

I. For Religion and Church-Government, I will not go one jot further than what is of∣fered by you already.

II. And so for the Militia, more than what ye have allowed by Me: but even in that you must observe, that I must have free nomination of the full half; as if the total number, Scots and all, be thirty, I will name fifteen. Yet if they (I mean the English Rebels) will be so base as to admit of ten Scots to twenty English, I am contented to name five Scots and ten Eng∣lish; and so proportionably to any number that shall be agreed upon.

III. As for gaining of particular persons, besides security, I give you power to promise them rewards for performed services, not sparing to engage for places, so they be not of great trust, or be taken away from honest men in possession, but as much profit as you will. With this last you are only to acquaint Richmond, Southampton, Culpepper and Hide.

XXIV. To the QUEEN.

OXFORD, Feb. 15. 25. MDCXLIV. V.

Dear Heart,

20.

THE expectation of an Express from Thee (as I find by Thine of the 4. Febr.) is very good news to Me, as likewise that Thou art now well satisfied with My diligence in Writing.

As for our Treaty, there is every day less hopes than other that it will produce a Peace: But I will absolutely promise Thee, that if we have one, it shall be such as shall invite Thy return, for I avow that without thy company I can neither have peace nor comfort with∣in My self. The limited days for treating are now almost expired without the least agree∣ment upon any one Article: wherefore I have sent for enlargement of days, that the whole Treaty may be laid open to the world. And I assure Thee, that Thou needest not doubt the issue of this Treaty, for My Commissioners are so well chosen (though I say it) that they will neither be threatned nor disputed from the grounds I have given them; which (upon My word) is according to the little Note Thou so well remembrest: And in this not only their obedience, but their judgments concur.

I confess in some respects Thou hast reason to bid Me beware of going too soon to London; for indeed some amongst us had a greater mind that way than was fit: of which perswa∣sion Percy is one of the chief, who is shortly like to see Thee; of whom having said this, is enough to shew Thee how he is to be trusted, or believed by Thee concerning our pro∣ceedings here.

In short, there is little or no appearance but that this Summer will be the hottest for War of any that hath been yet. And be confident, that in making Peace I shall ever shew My constancy in adhering to Bishops and all our Friends, and not forget to put a short pe∣riod to this perpetual Parliament. But as Thou lovest Me, let none perswade Thee to slacken Thine assistance for Him who is eternally Thine

C. R.

Oxford, 15. 25. Feb. 1644. 5.

3. 20.

To My Wife, 15. Feb. 1645. by P. A.

XXV. To the Marquess of ORMOND.

OXFORD, 16 Feb. MDCXLIV.

Ormond,

I Should wrong My own service, and this Gentleman Sir Timothy Fetherston, if I did not re∣commend him and his business to you; for the particulars of which I refer you to Digby.

And now again I cannot but mention to you the necessity of hastening of the Irish Peace, for which I hope you are already furnished by Me with materials sufficient: But in case (against all expectation and reason) Peace cannot be had upon those terms, you must not by any means fall to a new rupture with them, but continue the Cessation (according to a Postscript in a Letter by Jack Barry, a Copy of which Dispatch I herewith send you.) So I rest.

POSTSCRIPT.

In case upon particular mens fancies the Irish Peace should not be procured upon powers I have already given you, I have thought good to give you this further Order (which I hope will prove needless) to seek to renew the Cessation for a year; for which you shall promise the Irish (if you can have it no cheaper) to joyn with them against the Scots and Inchequin: for I hope by that time My condition may be such, as the Irish may be glad to accept less, or I be able to grant more.

XXVI. To the QUEEN.

OXFORD, 19. Feb. MDCXLIV. V.

21.

Oxford, 19. Feb. Old style.

DEAR Heart, I cannot yet send Thee any certain word concerning the issue of our Treaty; only the unreasonable stubbornness of the Rebels gives daily less and less hopes of any accommodation this way: wherefore I hope no rumours shall hinder Thee from hastning all Thou mayest all possible assistance to Me, and particularly that of the D. of Lorrain's, concerning which I received yesterday good news from D^r Goffe, that the P. of Orange will furnish Shipping for his Transportation; and that the rest of his Negotiation goes hopefully on: by which, and many other ways, I find Thy affection so accompanied with dexterity, as I know not whether (in their several kinds) to esteem most. But I will say no more of this, lest Thou mayest think that I pretend to do this way what is but possible to be done by the continued actions of My Life.

Though I leave news to others, yet I cannot but tell Thee that even now I have receiv∣ed certain intelligence of a great defeat given to Argyle by Montross, who upon surprize totally routed those Rebels, killed 1500 upon the place.

Yesterday I received Thine of 27. Jan. by the Portugal Agent, the only way (but Ex∣presses) I am confident on, either to receive Letters from Thee, or to send them to Thee. Indeed Sabrian sent Me word yesterday, besides some Complements, of the Imbargo of the Rebels Ships in France (which I likewise put upon Thy score of kindness) but is well enough content that the Portugal should be charged with Thy Dispatches.

As for trusting the Rebels, either by going to London, or disbanding My Army before a Peace, do no ways fear my hazarding so cheaply or foolishly; for I esteem the interest Thou hast in Me at a far dearer rate, and pretend to have a little more wit (at least by the Sympathy that is betwixt Us) than to put My self into the reverence of perfidious Rebels. So impatiently expecting the Express Thou hast promised Me, I rest eternally Thine.

I can now assure Thee that Hertogen the Irish Agent is an arrant knave, which shall be made manifest to Thee by the first opportunity of sending Pacquets.

11. 21.

To My Wife, 19 Feb. 1645. by P. A.

XXVII. To the Marquess of ORMOND.

OXFORD, Feb. 27. MDCXLIV. V.

Ormond,

THE impossibility of preserving My Protestant Subjects in Ireland by a continuation of the War, having moved Me to give you those powers and directions which I have formerly done for the concluding of a Peace there, and the same growing daily much more evident, that alone were reason enough for Me to enlarge your powers, and to make My commands in the point more positive. But besides these considerations, it being now ma∣nifest that the English Rebels have (as far as in them lies) given the command of Ireland to the Scots, that their aim is a total subversion of Religion and Regal Power, and that nothing less will content them, or purchase Peace here; I think My self bound in Consci∣ence not to let slip the means of setling that Kingdom (if it may be) fully under My obe∣dience, nor to lose that assistance which I may hope from My Irish Subjects, for such scru∣ples as in a less pressing condition might reasonably be stuck at by Me. For their satisfa∣ction, I do therefore command you to conclude a Peace with the Irish whatever it cost, so that My Protestant Subjects there may be secured, and my Regal Authority preserved. But for all this, you are to make Me the best bargain you can, and not discover your in∣largement

of power till you needs must. And though I leave the managing of this great and necessary work entirely to you; yet I cannot but tell you, that if the suspension of Poining's Act for such Bills as shall be agreed upon between you there, and the present ta∣king away of the Penal Laws against Papists by a Law, will do it, I shall not think it a hard bargain; so that freely and vigorously they engage themselves in My assistance against My Rebels of England and Scotland, for which no conditions can be too hard, not being against Conscience or Honour.

Copie to Ormond, 27. February 1644. 5.

XXVIII. To the QUEEN.

OXFORD, Mar. 5. MDCXLIV. V.

Dear Heart,

NOW is come to pass what I foresaw, the fruitless end (as to a present Peace of this Treaty; but I am still confident that I shall find very good effects of it: For besides that My Commissioners have offered, to say no more, full-measured reason, and the Rebels have stucken rigidly their demands, which I dare say had been too much, though they had taken Me Prisoner, so that assuredly the breach will light foully upon them; We have like∣wise at this time discovered, and shall make it evidently appear to the world, that the En∣glish Rebels (whether basely or ignorantly will be no very great difference) have, as much as in them lies, transmitted the Command of Ireland from the Crown of England to the Scots, which (besides the reflection it will have upon these Rebels) will clearly shew, that Reformation of the Church is not the chief, much less the only end of the Scotch Rebellion.

But it being presumption, and no piety, so to trust to a good Cause, as not to use all law∣ful means to maintain it, I have thought of one means more to furnish Thee with for My assistance than hitherto Thou hast had. It is, that I give Thee power to promise in My Name (to whom thou thinkest most fit) that I will take away all the Penal Laws against the Roman Catholicks in England, as soon as God shall make Me able to do it; so as by their means, or in their favours, I may have so powerful assistance as may deserve so great a favour, and enable Me to do it. But if Thou ask what I call that assistance, I answer, that when Thou knowest what may be done for it, it will be easily seen if it deserve to be so esteemed. I need not tell Thee what secrecy this business requires; yet this I will say, that this is the greatest point of confidence I can express to Thee: for it is no thanks to Me to trust Thee in any thing else but in this, which is the only thing of difference in opinion betwixt Us. And yet I know Thou wilt make as good a bargain for Me, even in this; I trusting thee (though it concern Religion) as if Thou wert a Protestant, the visi∣ble good of My Affairs so much depending on it.

I have so fully instructed this Bearer Pooly, that I will not say more to Thee now, but that herewith I send Thee a new Cypher, assuring Thee that none hath or shall have any Copy of it but My self, to the end Thou mayest use it when Thou shalt find fit to write any thing which Thou wilt judge worthy of Thy pains to put in Cypher, and to be decy∣phered by none but Me; and so likewise from Him to Thee, who is eternally Thine.

20. 23.

To My Wife, the 5. March, 1644. 5. by Pooly.

XXIX. To the QUEEN.

OXFORD, 13 March, Old style.

Dear Heart,

WHAT I told thee last Week concerning a good parting with our Lords and Com∣mons here, was on Monday last handsomly performed: and now if I do any thing unhandsom or disadvantageous to My self or Friends in order to a Treaty, it will be meer∣ly My own Fault. For I confess, when I wrote last, I was in fear to have been pressed to make some mean overtures to renew the Treaty, (knowing that there were great labou∣rings to that purpose: but now I promise Thee, if it be renewed, (which I believe will not, without some eminent good success on My side) it shall be to My honour and advan∣tage, I being now as well freed from the place of base and mutinous motions (that is to say, our Mungrel Parliament here) as of the chief causers, for whom I may justly expect to be chidden by Thee, for having suffered Thee to be vexed by them, Wilmot being al∣ready there, Percy on his way, and Sussex within few daies taking his journey to Thee; but that I know thou carest not for a little trouble to free Me from great inconveniences. Yet I must tell Thee, that if I knew not the perfect stediness of Thy love to Me, I might reasonably apprehend that their repair to Thee would rather prove a change than an end of their Villanies; and I cannot deny but My confidence in Thee was some cause of this permissive trouble to Thee.

I have received Thine of the third of March, by which Thou puttest Me in hope of assistance of men and money; and it is no little expression of Thy love to Me, that (be∣cause of My business) Festivals are troublesome to Thee: but I see that Assemblies in no Countries are very agreeable to Thee, and it may be done a purpose to make Thee weary of their companies: and excuse Me to tell Thee in earnest, that it is no wonder that mere Statesmen should desire to be rid of Thee. Therefore I desire Thee to think whether it would not advantage Thee much to make a personal Friendship with the Queen Regent (without shewing any distrust of Her Ministers; though not wholly trusting to them) and to shew Her, that when Her Regency comes out (and possibly before) She may have need of Her Friends; so that She shall but serve Her self by helping of Thee: and to say no more, but certainly, if this Rebellion had not begun to oppress Me when it did, a late great Queen had ended more glorious than She did.

In the last place, I desire Thee to give Me a weekly account of Thy health, for I fear lest in that alone Thou takest not care enough to express Thy kindness to Him who is eternally Thine.

The Northern news is rather better than what we first heard; for what by Sir Marma∣duke Langdale's and Montross's Victories Carlisle and the rest of our Northern Garrisons are relieved, and we hope for this year secured: and besides all this, the Northern Horse are already returned and joyned with My Nephew Rupert.

To My Wife, 13. March 1644. 5. by P. A.

XXX. To the QUEEN.

OXFORD, Thursday, 20. March.

Dear Heart,

UPON Saturday last I wrote to Thee by Sabran (but this, I believe, may come as soon to Thee) and I have received Thine of the seventh upon Monday last, which gave Me great contentment both in present and expectation, (the quick passage being likewise a welcome circumstance:) and yet I cannot but find a fault of omission in most of Thy lat∣ter Dispatches, there being nothing in them concerning Thy health: for though I confess that in this no news is good news, yet I am not so satisfied without a more perfect assu∣rance; and I hope Thou wilt by satisfying Me confess the justness of this My exception.

I am now full fraught with expectation, (I pray God send Me a good unlading) for I look dayly for some blow of importance to be given about Taunton or Shrewsbury: And I am confidently assured of a considerable and sudden supply of men from Ireland. Likewise the Refractary Horse (as the London Rebels call them) may be reckoned in, for yet it is not known what fomenters they have, or whether they have none; if the latter, there is the more hope of gaining them to Me: howsoever I doubt not but, if they stand out (as it is probable) good use may be made of them. Of this I believe to give Thee a perfecter account next Week, having sent to try their pulses.

Petit came yesterday, but he having at London thrust his Dispatches into the States Am∣bassadours Pacquets, I have not yet received them; and I would not stay to lengthen this in answer of them, nor give Thee half hopes of good Western news, knowing of an op∣portunity for writing to Thee within these three or four days: Only I congratulate with Thee for the safe arrival of Thy Tinne-adventure at Calis. And so farewel, Sweet heart.

Thine of the 10. I have newly received, whereby I find that Thou much mistakest Me concerning Ir. for I desire nothing more than a Peace there, and never forbad Thy, commerce there: Only I gave Thee warning of some Irish in France, whom I then thought, and now know to be Knaves.

To My Wife, 20. of March, 1644. 5. by P. A.

XXXI. To the QUEEN.

OXFORD, Thursday, 27. March.

Dear Heart,

I Wrote to Thee yesterday by Sakefield, the subject of it was only kindness to Thee, which, I assure Thee, shall ever be visible in all My actions. And now I come to Jermin's account, given Me by Thy command, which is very clear, hopeful in most par∣ticulars, and absolutely satisfactory as concerning Thy care and industry. As for the main impediment in the D. of Lorrain's business (which is his passage) why mayest not Thou procure him passage through France? (if that of Holland be stuck at.) It will much faci∣licate the Sea transportation in respect of landing on the Western Coast, which I believe will be found the best, there being not so many places to chuse on any where else. But this is an Opinion, not a Direction.

The general face of My Affairs Me thinks begins to mend, the dissensions at London ra∣ther increasing than ceasing, Montross dayly prospering, My Western business mending

apace, and hopeful in all the rest: So that if I had reasonable supplies of Money and Pow∣der (not to exclude any other) I am confident to be in a better condition this year than I have been since this Rebellion began, and possibly I may put fair for the whole, and so enjoy Thy company again, without which nothing can be a contentment unto Me. And so Farewel, Dear Heart.

I intend (if Thou like it) to bestow Percy's place upon the M. of Newcastle, to whom yet I am no ways engaged, nor will be before I have Thy answer. As for Jack Barclay, I do not remember that I gave Thee any hopes of making him Master of the Wards; for Cot∣tington had it long ago before Thou wentest hence, and I intended it to Secr. Nich. if he then would have received it: and I am deceived if I did not tell Thee of it.

I desire Thee to command Lo. Jer. to read to Thee the D^• Letter which goes herewith, and in it to mark well that part concerning the transportation of the D. of Lorrain's Army.

23. 30.

To My Wife, 27. Mar. 1645. by P. A.

XXXII. To the QUEEN.

31.

Oxford, Sunday, 30. March.

DEAR Heart, Since My last (which was but 3. days ago) there are no alterations happened of moment, preparations rather than actions being yet our chiefest busi∣ness; in which we hope that we proceed faster than the Rebels, whose Levies both of men and money (for certain) go on very slowly; and I believe they are much weaker than is thought even here at Oxford. For instance; A very honest Servant of Mine, and no fool, shewed Me a Proposition from one of the most considerable London Rebels, who will not let his name be known until he have hope that his Proposition will take effect: It is this, That since the Treaty is so broken off, that neither the Rebels nor I can resume it without at least a seeming total yielding to the other, the Treaty should be renewed upon Thy mo∣tion, with a pre-assurance that the Rebels will submit to reason. The answer that I per∣mitted My Servant to give was, That Thou art much the fittest person to be the means of so happy and glorious a work as is the Peace of this Kingdom: but that upon no terms Thy name was to be prophaned, therefore he was to be satisfied of the Rebels willingness to yield to reason, before he would consent that any such intimation should be made to Thee; and particularly concerning Religion and the Militia, that nothing must be insisted upon, but according to My former offers. This I believe will come to nothing, yet I can∣not but advertise Thee of any thing that comes to My knowledge of this consequence.

I must again tell Thee, that most assuredly France will be the best way for transporta∣tion of the D. of Lorrain's Army, there being divers fit and safe places of landing for them upon the Western coasts, besides the Ports under My Obedience, as Shelsey near Chichester, and others, of which I will advertise Thee when the time comes.

By My next I think to tell Thee when I shall march into the Field, for which Money is now His greatest want (I need say no more) who is eternally Thine.

18. 31.

To My Wife, 30. March, 1645. by Petit.

XXXIII. To the QUEEN. The little that is here in Cypher is in that which I sent to Thee by Pooly.

33.

OXFORD, Wednesday, 9. April, MDCXLV.

Dear Heart,

THough it be an uncomfortable thing to write by a slow Messenger, yet all occasions of this (which is now the only) way of conversing with Thee is so welcome to Me, as I shall be loth to lose any; but expect ne••ther news nor publick business from Me by this way of conveyance: yet judging Thee by My self, even these nothings will not be unwel∣come to Thee, though I should chide Thee, which if I could I would do, for Thy too sud∣den taking Alarms. I pray thee consider, since I love Thee above all earthly things, and that My contentment is unseparably conjoyned with Thine, must not all My actions tend to serve and please Thee? If Thou knewest what a life I lead (I speak not in respect of the common distractions) even in point of conversation, which, in My mind, is the chief joy or vexation of ones life, I dare say Thou wouldest pity Me; for some are too wise, others too foolish, some too busie, others too reserved, many fantastick. In a word, when I know none better (I speak not now in relation to business) than 359. 8. 270. 55. 5. 7. 67. 18. 294. 35. 69. 16. 54. 6. 38. 1. 67. 68. 9. 66. Thou maiest easily judge how My conver∣sation

pleaseth Me. I confess Thy company hath perhaps made Me in this hard to be pleased, but not less to be pitied by Thee, who art the only cure for this disease.

The end of all is this, to desire Thee to comfort Me as often as Thou canst with Thy Letters: and dost not Thou think, that to know particulars of Thy health, and how Thou spendest the time, are pleasing subjects to Me, though Thou hast no other business to write of? Believe Me, Sweet Heart, Thy kindness is as necessary to comfort My heart, as Thy assistance is for My Affairs.

To My Wife, 9. April, 1645. by Binion.

XXXIV. To the Lord JERMIN.

Oxford, Thursday, 24. April.

HArry, Lest My Wife should not yet be fit for any business, I write this to you, not to excuse My pains, but ease Hers: and that She may know, but not be troubled with My kindness, I refer to your discretion how far to impart My Letter to Her, or any other business, that so Her health in the first place be cared for, then My affairs. And now I must tell you, that undoubtedly if you had not trusted to Digby's sanguine complection (not to be rebated from sending good news) you would not have found fault with him for send∣ing mistaken intelligence; for if he should strictly tie himself to certain truths in this kind, you must have nothing from him but My Proclamations, or Ordinances from the preten∣ded Houses. But tell Me, can you not distinguish between what we send you upon cer∣tainty, and what upon uncertain reports, without making an oath the mark of distincti∣on? And are you obliged to publish all the news we send you? Seriously I think news may be sometimes too good to be told in the French Court; and certainly there is as much dexterity in publishing of news, as in matters which at first sight may seem of greater difficulty: for as I would not have them think that all assistance bestowed upon Me were in vain; so I would not have them believe that I needed no help, lest they should under∣hand assist any Rebels, to keep the balance of dissention amongst us equal.

For matter of News and present state of My affairs I refer you to Digby; only this in general, that if it please God to assist us this year but half so miraculously as He did the last (My present state compared with what it was this time twelve-month) I am very hopeful to see a joyful harvest before next Winter. Nor do I think this in any humane probability possible, except My Wife can procure Me considerable assistance both of men and money; of which I conceive little reason to despair, your last giving Me good hope concerning Lorrain: and though I say not that for the other I have so good an Author as 196. yet I hope you will not much blame My confidence, when 149. in hers the 10. of March says, J'ay une Affaire assurée, que vous donnerez 40000. Pistoles, que Je vous eusse en∣voyé si J'eusse veu mon navire revenu avec l'estain.

In the last place I will impose that upon you that is not reasonable to expect from My Wife, which is, to give Me a continual account what Letters She receives from Me, and what miscarry or come slowly; to which end take notice, that all My Letters to Her are numerarily marked on the top, as this with 37. and likewise I now begin the same with you. So farewel.

In your next let Me know particularly how My Wife is: which though it be not as I would have it, yet the perfect knowledge will hinder Me to imagine her worse than She is; if well, then every word will please Me.

I have commanded Digby to write to you freely concerning Will. Murry, which I hold to be necessary as concerning Montross's business.

To the L. Jermin, 24. April, 1645. concerning France.

XXXV. To the QUEEN.

39.

Oxford, Sunday, 4. May.

DEAR Heart, The Rebels new brutish General hath refused to meddle with forein Passes, so as yet I cannot dispatch Adrian May to Thee by the way of London; which if I cannot very shortly, I will send him by the West.

And now, it I could be assured of Thy recovery, I would have but few melancholy thoughts, for I thank God My Affairs begin to smile upon Me again; Wales being well swept of the Rebels, Farrington having relieved it self, and now being secured by Goring's coming, My Nephews likewise having brought Me a strong party of Horse and Foot, these quarters are so free, that I hope to be marching within three or four daies, and am still confident to have the start of the Rebels this year. I am likewise very hopeful that My Son will shortly be in the head of a good Army; for this I have the chearful assurance of Culpepper and Hyde.

Of late I have been much pressed to make Southampton Master of My Horse, not more for good will to him, as out of fear that Hamilton might return to a capacity of re-cozening Me; wherein if I had done nothing, both jealousie and discontents were like to arise: wherefore I thought fit to put My Nephew Rupert in that place, which will both save Me charge, and stop other mens grumbings.

I have now no more to say, but praying for, and impatiently expecting of good news from Thee, I rest, eternally Thine.

39.

To My Wife, 4. May, 1645. by Malin S. Ravy.

XXXVI. To the QUEEN.

Droitwich, Wednesday, 14. May.

DEAR Heart; Marching takes away the conveniency of sending My Letters so safe and quick to Thee as when I was at Oxford, however I shall not fail to do what I can to send often to Thee. There is so little news for the present, as I will leave that sub∣ject for others; only upon Saturday last I received a Dispatch from Montross, which assures Me his condition to be so good, that he bids Me be confident that his Country-men shall do Me no great harm this year; and if I could lend him but 500. Horse, he would under∣take to bring Me 20000. men before the end of this Summer.

For the general state of My affairs, we all here think it to be very hopeful; this Army being of a good strength, well ordered, and increasing; My Sons such, that Fairfax will not be refused to be fought with, of which I hope Thou wilt receive good satisfaction from himself. It's true that I cannot brag of store of money, but a sharp sword alwaies hinders starving at least; and I believe the Rebels Coffers are not very full (and certainly we shall make as good shift with empty purses as they) or they must have some greater defect, else their Levies could not be so backward as they are; for I assure Thee that I have at this in∣stant many more men in the Field than they. I am not very confident what their Northern Forces are, but except they are much stronger than I am made believe, I may likewise include them.

Now I must make a complaint to Thee of My Son Charles, which troubles Me the more, that Thou maiest suspect I seek by equivocation to hide the breach of My word, which I hate above all things, especially to Thee. It is this, He hath sent to desire Me, that Sir John Greenvil may be sworn Gentleman of his Bed-chamber, but is already so publickly ingaged in it, that the refusal would be a great disgrace both to my Son and the young Gentleman, to whom it is not fit to give a just distaste, especially now, considering his Fa∣ther's merits, his own hopefulness, besides the great power that Family has in the West. Yet I have refused the admitting of him until I shall hear from Thee. Wherefore I desire Thee, first to chide My Son for ingaging himself without one of Our consents; then, not to refuse Thy own consent; and lastly, to believe that directly or indirectly I never knew of this while yesterday at the delivery of My Son's Letter. So farewel, Sweet Heart, and God send Me good news from Thee.

To My Wife, May 14. 1645.

XXXVII. To the QUEEN.

Daintry, Sunday, 9. June.

DEAR Heart, Oxford being free, I hope this will come sooner to Thee than other∣wise I could have expected, which makes Me believe that My good news will not be very stale, which in short is this: Since the taking of Leicester, My marching down hither to relieve Oxford made the Rebels raise their siege before I could come near them, ha∣ving had their Quarters once or twice beaten up by that Garrison, and lost four hundred men at an assault before Bostol-House. At first I thought they would have fought with Me, being marched as far as Brackly, but they are since gone aside to Brickhill, so as I believe they are weaker than they are thought to be; whether by their distractions, (which are certainly very great, Fairfax and Brown having been at Cudgels, and his men and Crom∣well's likewise at blows together, where a Captain was slain) or wasting their men, I will not say. Besides Goring hath given a great defeat to the Western Rebels, but I do not yet know the particulars. Wherefore I may (without being too much sanguine) affirm, that (since this Rebellion) My Affairs were never in so fair and hopeful a way; though among our selves we want not our own follies, which is needless, and I am sure tedious, to tell Thee, but such as I am confident shall do no harm, nor much trouble Me. Yet I must tell Thee, that it is Thy Letter by Fitz-Williams, assuring Me of Thy perfect recovery, with Thy wonted kindness, which makes Me capable of taking contentment in these good suc∣cesses:

For as divers men propose several recompences to themselves for their pains and ha∣zard in this Rebellion, so Thy Company is the only reward I expect and wish for.

To My Wife, 9. June, 1645.

XXXVIII. To Prince RUPERT.

CAERDIFFE, Aug. 3. MDCXLV.

C. R.

NEphew, This is occasioned by a Letter of yours which the Duke of Richmond shew∣ed Me yesterday. And first I assure you, I have been (and ever will be) very careful to advertise you of My resolutions so soon as they were taken; and if I enjoyned silence to that which was no secret, it was not My fault, for I thought it one, and I am sure it ought to have been so.

Now as for your opinion of My Business, and your Counsel thereupon, If I had any other quarrel but the defence of My Religion, Crown and Friends, you had full reason for your advice: For I confess that speaking either as a meer Souldier or Statesman, I must say there is no probability but of My Ruine; yet as a Christian I must tell you, that God will not suf∣fer Rebels and Traitors to prosper, nor this Cause to be overthrown. And whatsoever per∣sonal punishment it shall please Him to inflict upon Me, must not make Me repine, much less give over this quarrel: and there is as little question, that a composition with them at this time is nothing else but a submission, which by the grace of God I am resolved against, whatsoever it cost Me; for I know My obligation to be, both in Conscience and Honour, neither to abandon God's Cause, injure My Successors, nor forsake My Friends. Indeed I cannot flatter My self with expectation of good success more than this, to end My days with Honour and a good Conscience, which obligeth Me to continue My endeavours, in not despairing that God may yet in due time avenge His own Cause; though I must aver to all My Friends, that he that will stay with Me at this time, must expect and resolve either to die for a good Cause, or (which is worse) to live as miserable in maintaining it as the violence of insulting Rebels can make him.

Having thus truly and impartially stated My Case unto you, and plainly told you My resolutions, which by the grace of God I will not alter, they being neither lightly nor sud∣denly grounded, I earnestly desire you not in any wise to hearken now after Treaties, assu∣ring you, that as low as I am, I will do no more than was offered in My Name at Vxbridge; confessing that it were as great a miracle that they should agree to so much reason, as that I should be within a month in the same condition that I was immediately before the Bat∣tel at Naseby. Therefore for God's sake let us not flatter our selves with these conceits. And believe Me, your very imagination that you are desirous of a Treaty will but lose Me so much the sooner: wherefore as you love Me, whatsoever you have already done, apply your discourse hereafter according to My resolution and judgement.

As for the Irish, I assure you they shall not cheat Me; but it is possible they may cozen themselves: for be assured, what I have refused to the English, I will not grant to the Irish Rebels, never trusting to that kind of people (of what Nation soever) more than I see by their Actions. And I am sending to Ormond such a Dispatch, as I am sure will please you and all honest men; a Copy whereof by the next opportunity you shall have.

Lastly, be confident I would not have put you nor My self to the trouble of this long Letter, had I not a great estimation of you, and a full confidence of your Friendship too.

Caerdiffe, August 3. 1645.

C. R.

XXXIX. To Secretary NICHOLAS.

CAERDIFFE, Aug. 4. MDCXLV.

Nicholas,

HAving commanded your fellow-Secretary to give you a full account as well of our proceedings here as resolutions, I will neither trouble you nor My self with repeti∣tions, Only for My self, I must desire you to let every one know, that no distresses of For∣tune whatsoever shall make Me, by the grace of God, in any thing recede from those grounds I laid down to you who were My Commissioners at Vxbridge, and which (I thank them) the Rebels have published in print. And though I could have wished their pains had been spared, yet I will neither deny that those things are Mine which they have set out in My Name (only some words here and there are mistaken, and some Comma's misplaced, but not much material) nor, as a good Protestant or honest man, blush for any of those Papers. Indeed as a discreet man I will not justifie My self; and yet I would fain know him who would be willing that the freedom of all his private Letters were publickly seen, as Mine have now been. However, so that one clause be rightly understood, I care not much though the rest take their fortune: It is concerning the Mungrel Parliament. The truth is, that Sus∣sex's factiousness at that time put Me somewhat out of patience, which made Me freely

vent My displeasure against those of his party to My Wife; and the intention of that phrase was, that his Faction did what they could to make it come to that, by their raising and fomenting of base Propositions. This is clearly evidenced by My following excuse to Her, for suffering those people to trouble Her, the reason being, to eschew those greater inconve∣niences which they had, and were more likely to cause here than there. I am now going to supper, and so I rest,

Your most assured Friend, C. R.

XL. For My Son the PRINCE.

Charles,

THis is rather to tell you where I am, and that I am well, than at this time to direct you any thing, I having wrote fully to your Mother what I would have you to do; whom I command you to obey in every thing, except in Religion, concerning which I am confident She will not trouble you; and see that you go not any whither without Her or My particular directions. Let Me hear often from you; and so God bless you.

Your loving Father, CHARLES R.

Newcastle, June 2. 1646.

If Jack Ashburnham come where you are, command him to wait upon you as he was wont, until I shall send for him, if your Mother and you be together; if not, he must wait on Her.

XLI. To the Duke of YORK.

CAVERSHAM, July 4. MDCXLVII.

C. R.

JAmes, I am in hope that you may be permitted, with your Brother and Sister, to come to some place betwixt this and London, where I may see you. To this end therefore I command you to ask leave of the two Houses, to make a journey (if it may be) for a night or two. But rather than not to see you, I will be content that ye come to some convenient place to dine, and go back at night.

And foreseeing the fear of your being brought within the power of the Army, as I am, may be objected to hinder this My desire; I have full assurance from Sir Thomas Fairfax and the Chief Officers, that there will be no interruption or impediment made by them for your return, how and when you please. So God bless you.

Your loving Father, CHARLES R.

Casam, July 4. 1647.

POSTSCRIPT.

Send Me word as soon as you can, of the time and place where I shall have the con∣tentment of seeing you, your Brother and Sister.

XLII. To Colonel WHALEY.

HAMPTON-COURT, Nov. 11. MDCXLVII.

COlonel Whaley, I have been so civilly used by you and Major Huntington, that I can∣not but by this parting farewell acknowledge it under My Hand; as also to desire the continuance of your courtesie, by your protecting of My Houshold-stuff and Move∣ables of all sorts which I leave behind Me in this House, that they be neither spoiled nor imbezeled. Only there are three Pictures here which are not Mine, that I desire you to restore: to wit, my Wife's Picture in blew, sitting in a Chair, you must send to M^rs Kirke; My Eldest Daughters Picture copied by Belcam, to the Countess of Anglesey; and My Lady Stanhop's Picture to Carey Raleigh. There is a fourth which I had almost forgot, it is the original of My Eldest Daughter (it hangs in this Chamber over the Board next the Chimney) which you must send to My Lady Aubigney.

So being confident that you wish My preservation and restitution, I rest,

Your Friend, CHARLES R.

I assure you it was not the Letter you shewed Me yesterday that made Me take this re∣solution, nor any advertisement of that kind: But I confess that I am loth to be made a close Prisoner, under pretence of securing My life.

I had almost forgot to desire you to send the black Grew-Bitch to the D. of Richmond.

XLIII. To the Lord MOUNTAGUE,

HAMPTON-COURT, Nov. 11. MDCXLVII.

Montague,

FIRST, I do hereby give you and the rest of your fellows thanks for the civilities and good conversation that I have had from you. Next I command you to send this My Message (which you will find upon this Table) to the two Houses of Parliament, and likewise to give a Copy of it to Colonel Whaley to be sent to the General. Likewise I de∣sire you to send all My Saddle-Horses to My Son the Duke of York.

As for what concerns the resolution that I have taken, My Declaratory Message saies so much, that I refer you to it; and so I rest,

Your assured Friend, CHARLES R.

XLIV. For Sir THOMAS FAIRFAX General.

C. R.

HAving left order at Our remove from Hampton-Court, that a Copy should be given you of what We had then written to both Houses of Parliament touching the cau∣ses of Our withdrawing, and the continuance of Our resolutions to improve every occasion of the satisfaction of all chief Interests, that so a happy Peace may be setled in Our Do∣minions; in pursuance whereof We have lately sent a Message to both Houses from this place, and a Copy of it to you; and being desirous, in order to that blessed work, to give you Our present sense upon the condition of affairs as they now stand: We have thought fit to appoint Sir John Barkley to repair unto you, and to communicate the same to you: And We shall be glad by him to receive a mutual communication of your sense also upon this subject; not doubting but you easily perceive by the late disorders, into what a depth of confusion the Army and the Nation will fall, if timely and effectual preventions be not used. And therefore We have now again proposed (as the only expedient) a Personal Treaty, for the composing of all differences, and fulfilling the desires of all Interests. To which if you will employ your credit, as you cannot but expect the blessings of God upon your endeavours therein; so may you justly look for the best return that ever Our conditi∣on shall be able to make you.

Given at Carisbrook-Castle, Novemb. 26. 1647.

XLV. For Sir THOMAS FAIRFAX, General.

C. R.

THE free liberty which you willingly afforded Us to have the use of Our Chaplains, makes us at this time not only to acknowledge your former Civilities, but likewise now to acquaint you that three of Our Chaplains, to wit, D^r Sheldon, D^r Holdsworth and D^r Haywood are newly landed in this Isle, not doubting but they shall have the same pro∣tection that formerly they had; which still will shew the continuation of your good respect unto Us, which we upon all fitting occasions shall not be backward to acknowledge. So We bid you heartily farewel.

Given at Carisbrook-Castle, Novemb. 27. 1647.

XLVI. To the Lords, Gentlemen, and Committee of the Scotch Parliament, together with the Officers of the Army.

CARISBROOK, July 31. MDCXLVIII.

My Lords and Gentlemen,

IT is no small comfort to Me, that My Native Country hath so true a sense of My pre∣sent condition, as I find expressed by your Letter of the eighth of this Month, and your Declaration, both which I received upon Friday last. And the very same reason which makes you discreetly and generously at this time forbear to press any thing to Me, hinders Me likewise to make any particular professions unto you, lest it may be imagined that de∣sire of Liberty should now be the only Secretary to My thoughts. Yet thus much I cannot but say, that as in all humane reason nothing but a free Personal Treaty with me can set∣tle the unhappy distractions of these distressed Kingdoms; so, if that could once be had, I would not doubt but that (by the grace of God) a happy Peace would soon follow: Such force (I believe) true reason has in the hearts of all men, when it may be clearly and calmly heard; and I am not ashamed at all times to profess that it hath, and shall be alwaies want of Understanding, not of will, if I do not yield to reason, whensoever and from whomsoever I hear it: and it were a strange thing, if reason should be less esteemed because it comes from Me; which (truly) I do not expect from you, your Declaration seeming to Me (and I hope your Actions will prove that I am not deceived) to be so well grounded upon Ho∣nour and Justice, that albeit, by way of opinion, I cannot give a Placet to every Clause in it, yet I am confident upon a calm and friendly debate we shall very well agree.

To conclude, I cannot (for the present) better shew My thankfulness to you for the ge∣nerous and loyal expressions of your Affections to Me, than by giving you My honest and sincere advice; which is, really and constantly, without seeking private ends, to pursue the publick professions in your Declaration, as sincere Christians and good Subjects ought to do, always remembring, that as the best foundation of Loyalty is Christianity, so true Christianity teaches perfect Loyalty; for without this reciprocation neither is truly what

they pretend to be. But I am both confident that needs not to you, as likewise, that you will rightly understand this which is affectionately intended by your assured Friend,

Carisbrook, Monday, 31. July, 1648.

C. R.

XLVII. To the PRINCE.

NEWPORT, Nov. 29. MDCXLVIII.

SON,

BY what hath been said, you may see how long We have laboured in the search of Peace: Do not you be discouraged to tread those ways in all worthy means to re∣store your self to your Right, but prefer the way of Peace. Shew the greatness of your Mind, rather to conquer your Enemies by pardoning, than by punishing. If you saw how unmanly and unchristianly this implacable disposition is in our ill-willers, you would a∣void that spirit. Censure Us not for having parted with too much of Our Own Right; the price was great, the commodity was, Security to Us, Peace to Our People: And We are confident another Parliament would remember how useful a King's Power is to a Peoples Liberty; of how much We have devested Our self, that We and they might meet again in a due Parliamentary way, to agree the bounds for Prince and People. And in this give belief to Our experience, never to affect more Greatness or Prerogative than what is really and in∣trinsecally for the good of your Subjects, (not satisfaction of Favourites.) And if you thus use it, you will never want means to be a Father to all, and a bountiful Prince to any you would be extraordinarily gracious unto. You may perceive all men trust their treasure where it returns them interest: And if Princes, like the Sea, receive and repay all the fresh streams and rivers trust them with, they will not grudge, but pride themselves to make them up an Ocean. These considerations may make you a great Prince, as your Father is now a low one: and your state may be so much the more established, as Mine hath been shaken. For Subjects have learnt (We dare say) that Victories over their Princes are but triumphs over themselves, and so will be more unwilling to hearken to changes hereafter. The Eng∣lish Nation are a sober People, however at present under some infatuation. We know not but this may be the last time We may speak to you or the world publickly: We are sensible into what hand We are fallen; and yet We bless God We have those inward re∣freshments that the malice of Our Enemies cannot perturb. We have learnt to own Our self by retiring into Our self, and therefore can the better digest what befalls Us, not doubting but God can restrain Our Enemies Malice, and turn their fierceness unto His Praise.

To conclude, If God give you success, use it humbly, and far from revenge: If he restore you to your Right upon hard conditions, whatever you promise, keep. Those men which have forced Laws which they were bound to observe, will find their triumphs full of troubles. Do not think any thing in this world worth obtaining by foul and unjust means. You are the Son of Our love; and as We direct you to what We have recom∣mended to you, so We assure You, We do not more affectionately pray for you, (to whom We are a natural Parent) than We do that the ancient glory and renown of this Nation be not buried in irreligion and fanatick humour; and that all Our Subjects (to whom We are a Politick Parent) may have such sober thoughts, as to seek their Peace in the Orthodox Profession of the Christian Religion as it was established since the Reformation in this Kingdom, and not in new Revelations; and that the ancient Laws, with the interpretati∣on according to the known practices, may once again be an Hedge about them, that you may in due time govern, and they be governed, as in the fear of the Lord.

C. R.

The Commissioners are gone, the Corn is now in the Ground, We expect the harvest: if the fruit be Peace, We hope the God of Peace will in time reduce all to Truth and Or∣der again: which that he may do, is he Prayer of

C. R.

XLVIII. For the KING.

SIR,

HAving no means to come to the knowledge of Your Majesties present condition but such as I receive from the Prints; or (which is as uncertain) Report, I have sent this Bearer Seamour to wait upon Your Majesty, and to bring me an account of it; that I may withal assure Your Majesty, I do not only pray for Your Majesty, according to my Duty, but shall alwaies be ready to do all which shall be in my power, to deserve that Blessing which I now humbly beg of Your Majesty upon,

Sir,

Your Majesties most humble and most obedient Son and Servant, CHARLES.

Hague, January 23. 1648.

Notes

• * 1.1

  Jan. 23. 2 Feb.