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.

XXXIV. To the Lords and Commons, concerning IRELAND, and the Bill for Pressing Souldiers, Decemb. 14. MDCXLI.

MY Lords and Gentlemen, The last time I was in this place, and the last thing that I recommended unto you was the business of Ireland; whereby I was in good hope that I should not have needed again to have put you in mind of that business. But still seeing the slow proceedings therein, and the dayly Dispatches that I have out of Ireland, of the lamentable estate of My Protestant Subjects there, I cannot but again earnestly com∣mend the dispatch of that Expedition unto you; for it is the chief business that at this time I take to heart, and there cannot almost be any business that I can have more care of.

I might now take up some of your time in expressing My detestation of Rebellions in general, and of this in particular. But knowing that Deeds and not Declarations must sup∣press this great insolency, I do here in a word offer you whatsoever My power, pains, or industry can contribute to this good and necessary work of reducing the Irish Nation to their true and wonted obedience.

And that nothing may be omitted on My part, I must here take notice of the Bill for Pressing of Souldiers, now depending among you, My Lords: concerning which, I here declare, that in case it come so to Me as it may not infringe or diminish My Prerogative, I will pass it. And further, seeing there is a dispute raised (I being little beholding to him whosoever at this time began it) concerning the bounds of this antient and un∣doubted

Prerogative, to avoid further debate at this time, I offer that the Bill may pass with a salvo jure both for King and People, leaving such debates to a time that may bet∣ter bear them. If this be not accepted, the fault is not Mine that this Bill pass not, but theirs that refuse so fair an offer.

To conclude, I conjure you by all that is or can be dear to you or Me, that laying away all disputes, you go on chearfully and speedily for the reducing of Ireland.