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 SPEECHES.

I. To the Lords and Commons, at the opening of His First Parliament, at WESTMINSTER, June 18. MDCXXV.

I Thank God that the business to be treated on at this time is of such a nature, that it needs no Eloquence to set it forth; for I am neither able to do it, neither doth it stand with My Nature to spend much time in words. It is no new business, being already happily begun by My Father of blessed memory, who is with God; therefore it needeth no Narrative: I hope in God you will go on to maintain it as freely as you advised My Father to it.

It is true, He may seem to some to have been slack to begin so just and so glorious a Work; but it was His Wisdom that made Him loth to begin a work, until He might find means to main∣tain it: But after that He saw how much He was abused in the confidence He had with other States, and was confirmed by your advice to run the course we are in, with your En∣gagement to maintain it, I need not press to prove how willingly He took your Advice; for the Preparations that are made are better able to declare it than I to speak it: The assist∣ance of those in Germany, the Fleet that is ready for action, with the rest of the Preparations which I have only followed My Father in, do sufficiently prove that He entred into this Action.

My Lords and Gentlemen, I hope that you do remember that you were pleased to im∣ploy Me to advise My Father to break off those two Treaties that were on foot; so that I cannot say I came hither a free unengaged man. It's true, I came into this business willingly and freely, like a young man, and consequently rashly; but it was by your interest, your en∣gagement: So that though it were done like a young man, yet I cannot repent Me of it; and I think none can blame Me for it, knowing the love and fidelity you have born to your King, having My self likewise some little experience of your affections.

I pray you remember that this being My first Action, and begun by your advice and entreaty, what a great dishonour it were to you and Me, if this Action so begun should fail for that assistance you are able to give Me. Yet knowing the constancy of your love both to Me and this Business, I needed not to have said this, but only to shew what care and sense I have of your Honours and Mine own. I must entreat you likewise to consider of the Times we are in, how that I must adventure your lives (which I should be loth to do) should I con∣tinue you here long; and you must venture the Business, if you be slow in your resolutions. Wherefore I hope you will take such grave Counsel, as you will expedite what you have in hand to do; which will do Me and your selves an infinite deal of Honour: You, in shew∣ing your love to Me; and Me, that I may perfect that Work which My Father hath so happi∣ly begun.

Last of all, because some malicious men may, and, as I hear, have given out, that I am not so true a Keeper and Maintainer of the true Religion that I profess; I assure you that I may with S^t Paul say, that I have been trained up at Gamaliel's feet: and although I shall never be so arrogant as to assume unto My self the rest, I shall so far shew the end of it, that all the World may see that none hath been, nor ever shall be, more desirous to maintain the Religi∣on I profess than I shall be.

Now because I am unfit for much speaking. I mean to bring up the fashion of My Pre∣decessors, to have My Lord Keeper speak for Me in most things: Therefore I have command∣ed him to speak something unto you at this time, which is more for formality, than any great matter he hath to say unto you.

II. To the Lords and Commons, in the Hall at CHRISTS-CHURCH in OXFORD, Aug. 4. MDCXXV.

MY Lords, and you of the Commons, We all remember that from your Desires and Advice, My Father, now with God, brake off those two Treaties with Spain that

were then in hand. Well you then foresaw, that as well for regaining My dispossessed Bro∣thers Inheritance, as Home defence, a War was likely to succeed; and that as your Coun∣sels had let My Father into it, so your assistance in a Parliamentary way to pursue it should not be wanting. That Aid you gave Him by Advice was for succour of His Allies, the guarding of Ireland and the home part, supplie of Munition, preparing and setting forth of His Navy. A Councel you thought of, and appointed for the War, and Treasu∣rers for issuing of the Moneys. And to begin this Work of your Advice, you gave three Subsidies, and as many Fifteens, which with speed were levied, and by direction of that Councel of War (in which the preparation of this Navy was not the least) disbursed.

It pleased God at the entrance of this Preparation (by your Advice begun) to call My Father to His Mercy, whereby I entred as well to the care of your Design as His Crown. I did not then, as Princes do, of Custom and Formality re-assemble you, but that by your further Advice and Aid I might be able to proceed in that which by your Counsels My Fa∣ther was ingaged in. Your love to Me and forwardness to further those Affairs you expres∣sed by a grant of two Subsidies yet ungathered; although I must assure you, by My self and others upon credit taken up, and aforehand disbursed, and far short as yet to set forth that Navy now preparing; as I have lately the estimate of those of care, and who are still employed about it, whose particular of all expences about this Preparation shall be given you when you please to take an accompt of it.

Another contracted Copy of the two foregoing Speeches.

Other Copies having contracted the substance of both these Speeches foregoing into one, supposed to be spoken at Westminster, at the Opening of the Parliament, it was thought fit to represent both Copies, leaving it to the Memory of such as were then present to decide which is the true.

MY Lords and Gentlemen, You are not ignorant that at your earnest entreaty, the twenty third of March sixteen hundred twenty three, My Father (of Happy Me∣mory) first took up arms for the recovery of the Palatinate; for which purpose, by your as∣sistance, He began to form a considerable Army, and to prepare a goodly Armado and Na∣vy Royal. But Death intervening between Him and the atchievement, the War, with the Crown, is devolved upon Me. To the prosecution whereof as I am obliged both in Nature and Honour; so I question not but, the same necessity continuing, you will cherish the Action with the like affection, and further it with a ready Contribution.

True it is, You furnished My Father with affectionate Supplies; but they held no sym∣metrie or proportion with the charge of so great an Enterprise: for those your Donatives are all disburst to a peny; and I am inforced to summon you hither, to tell you, that nei∣ther can the Army advance nor the Fleet set forth without farther Aid.

Consider, I pray you, the eyes of all Europe are defixt upon Me; to whom I shall ap∣pear ridiculous, as though I were unable to outgo Muster and Ostentation, if you now de∣sert Me. Consider, it is My first attempt; wherein if I sustain a foil, it will blemish all My future Honour.

If Mine cannot, let your own Reputation move you: Deliver and expedite Me fairly out of this War wherewith you have incumbred (let it never be said, whereinto you have betrayed) Me.

I desire therefore your speedy Supplie: Speedy I call it, for else it will prove no Supply. The Sun, you know, is entring into his declining point; so it will be soon too late to set forth, when it will be rather not too soon to return. Again, I must mind you of the Mor∣tality now regnant in this City, which should it (as so it may, and no breach of Priviledge neither) arrest any one Member of either House, it soon would put a period both to Consul∣tation and Session: so that your own Periclitation necessitates an early Resolution.

In summ, Three of the best Rhetoricians, Honour, Opportunity, and Safety, are all of a Plot, and plead, you see, for Expedition.

Perhaps it may be expected I should say something in way of account of My Religion, as also of the temper and tenor of My future Government: But as I hope I have not been guilty of any thing which may justly start the least question in either; so I desire you would repose in this assurance, that I will in neither vary from those Principles wherein I have been instituted at the feet of that eminent Gamaliel, My late Father.

III. To the Speaker of the House of Commons of His Second Parliament, MDCXXV. VI.

MAster Speaker, The Answer of the Commons delivered by you I like well of, and do take it for a full & satisfactory Answer, and I thank them for it; and I hope you will with all expedition take a course for performance thereof, the which will turn to your own good as well as Mine. But for your Clause therein of presenting of Grievances, I take that but for a Parenthesis in your Speech, and not a Condition; and yet, for answer to that

part, I will tell you, I will be as willing to hear your Grievances as My Predecessors have been, so that you will apply your selves to redress Grievances, and not to inquire after Grievances.

I must let you know, that I will not allow any of My Servants to be questioned among you; much less such as are of eminent place and near unto Me. The old question was, What shall be done to the man whom the King will honour? but now it hath been the labour of some, to seek what may be done against him whom the King thinks fit to honour. I see you specially aim at the Duke of Buckingham: I wonder what hath so altered your affecti∣ons toward him. I do well remember that in the last Parliament in My Father's time, when he was an Instrument to break the Treaties, all of you (and yet I cannot say all, for I know some of you are changed, but yet the House of Commons is always the same) did so much honour and respect him, that all the honour conferred on him was too little: and what he hath done since to alter or change your minds I wote not; but can assure you, he hath not medled or done any thing concerning the Publick or Commonwealth but by special directions and appointment, and as My Servant; and is so far from gaining or improving his Estate thereby, that I verily think he hath rather impaired the same.

I would you would hasten for My Supply, or else it will be worse for your selves; for if any ill happen, I think I shall be the last shall feel it.

IV. To the Lords and Commons, at WHITE-HALL, Mar. 29. MDCXXVI.

MY Lords and Gentlemen, I have called you hither to day, I mean both Houses of Parliament; but it is for several and distinct reasons.

My Lords, you of the Upper House, to give you thanks for your Care of the state of the Kingdom now; and not only for the care of your own Proceedings, but for inciting your Fellow-House of the Commons to take that into their consideration. Therefore, My Lords, I must not only give you thanks, but I must also avow, that if this Parliament do not redound to the good of this Kingdom, which I pray God it may, it is not your faults.

And you, Gentlemen of the House of Commons, I am sorry that I may not justly give the same thanks to you; but I must tell you, that I am come here to shew you your Er∣rors, and, as I may call it, Unparliamentary Proceedings in this Parliament. But I do not despair, because you shall see your faults so clearly by the Lord Keeper, that you may so amend your Proceeding, that this Parliament shall end comfortably and happily, though at the beginning it hath had some rubs.

After the Lord Keeper had declared His MAJESTY's pleasure to them, Himself added,

I must withal put you in mind a little of times past. You may remember that in the time of My Blessed Father you did with your Counsel and perswasion prevail with My Father and Me to break off the Treaties. I confess I was your Instrument for two Rea∣sons: One was, the fitness of the time; the other, because I was seconded by so great and worthy a Body as the whole Body of Parliament. Then there was no body in so great fa∣vour with you as this man whom you seem now to touch, but indeed, My Father's Go∣vernment and Mine. Now that you have all things according to your wishes, and that I am so far ingaged that you think there is no retreat, now you begin to set the Dice, and make your own Game. But I pray you be not deceived; it is not a Parliamentary way, nor is it a way to deal with a King.

Master Coke told you, It was better to dye by a foreign Enemy than to be destroyed at home. Indeed I think it is more Honour for a King to be invaded and almost destroyed by a fo∣reign Enemy, than to be despised by His Own Subjects.

Remember that Parliaments are altogether in My Power for their Calling, Sitting, and Dissolution; therefore as I find the fruits of them good or evil, they are to continue, or not to be. And remember that if in this time instead of mending your Errors, by delay you persist in your Errors, you make them greater and irreconcileable: whereas, on the other side, if you do go on chearfully to mend them, and look to the distressed state of Christen∣dom, and the Affairs of the Kingdom as it lyeth now by this great Engagement, you will do your selves honour, you shall incourage Me to go on with Parliaments, and I hope all Christendom shall feel the good of it.

V. To the House of Lords, at WESTMINSTER, May 11. MDCXXVI.

MY Lords, The Cause and only Cause of My coming to you this day is, to express the sense I have of all your Honours; for he that toucheth any of you, toucheth Me in a very great measure.

I have thought fit to take order for the punishing some insolent Speeches lately spoken: I have been too remiss heretofore in punishing such Speeches as concern My self. Not that I was greedy of their Monies, but that Buckingham through his importunity would not

suffer Me to take notice of them, lest he might be thought to have set Me on, and that he might come the forwarder to his Trial. And to approve his Innocency as touching the mat∣ters against him, I My self can be a Witness to clear him in every one of them.

I speak not this to take any thing out of your hands, but to shew the reason why I have not hitherto punished those insolent Speeches against My self. And now I hope you will be as tender of My Honour, when time shall serve, as I have been sensible of yours.

VI. To the French Servants of the QUEEN, at Somerset-House, July 1. MDCXXVI.

GEntlemen and Ladies, I am driven to that extremity, as I am personally come to acquaint you that I very earnestly desire your return into France.

True it is, the deportment of some amongst you hath been very inoffensive to Me: But others again have so dallied with My Patience, and so highly affronted Me, as I cannot, I will no longer endure it.

VII. To the Lords and Commons, at the opening of His Third Parliament, at WESTMINSTER, Mar. 17. MDCXXVII. VIII.

MY Lords and Gentlemen, The Times are now for Action: for Action, I say, not for Words; therefore I shall use but a few: And (as Kings are said to be exemplary to Their Subjects, so) I wish you would imitate Me in this, and use as few, falling upon speedy Consultation.

No man is, I conceive, such a Stranger to the Common Necessity as to expostulate the cause of this Meeting, and not to think Supply to be the end of it. And as this Necessity is the product and consequent of your Advice; so the true Religion, the Laws and Liberties of this State, and just Defence of our Friends and Allies, being so considerably concerned, will be, I hope, arguments enough to perswade Supply: For if it be, as most true it is, both My Duty and yours to preserve this Church and Common-wealth, this Exigency certainly requires it.

In this time of Common danger I have taken the most antient speedy and best way for Supply, by calling you together. If (which God forbid) in not contributing what may an∣swer the quality of My occasions you do not your duties, it shall suffice I have done Mine; in the Conscience whereof I shall rest content, and take some other course, for which God hath impowered Me, to save that which the folly of particular men might hazard to lose.

Take not this as a Menace, (for I scorn to threaten any but My Equals,) but as an Ad∣monition from Him who is tied both by Nature and Duty to provide for your preservati∣ons. And I hppe, though I thus speak, your Demeanours will be such as shall not only make Me approve your former Counsels, but oblige Me in thankfulness to meet you oft∣ner; than which nothing can be more pleasing to Me.

I will only add one thing more, and then leave My Lord Keeper to make a short Pa∣raphrase upon the Text I have delivered you; which is, to Remember a thing to the end we may forget it. Remembring the Distractions of our last Meeting, you may suppose I have no Confidence of good success at this time. But be assured, I shall freely forget and forgive what is past, hoping you will follow that sacred advice lately inculcated, to main∣tain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of Peace.

VIII. To the Lords and Commons, at WHITE-HALL, April 4. MDCXXVIII.

MY Lords and Gentlemen, I do very well approve the Methods of your Proceedings in this Parliament, A Jove Principium, hoping that the rest of your Consultations will succeed the happier: And I like the Preamble of My Lord Keeper, otherwise I should a little have suspected that you thought Me not so careful of Religion as I have and ever shall be, wherein I am as forward as you can desire.

As for your Petition, I answer first in general, that I like that well; and will use these as well as all other means for the maintenance and propagation of that Religion wherein I have lived, and do resolve to die. But for the particulars, you shall receive more full Answer hereafter.

And now I will only add this, That as we pray to God to help us, so we must help our selves; for we can have no assurance of his assistance, if we do lie in a Bed and only pray, without using other means: And therefore I must remember you, that if we do not make provision speedily, we shall not be able to put a Ship to Sea this year. Verbum sat sapienti est.

IX. To the Speaker and House of Commons, April 14. MDCXXVIII.

MAster Speaker, and you Gentlemen, When I sent to you My last Message, I did not expect to Reply; for I intended to hasten you, not to find fault with you. I told you, at your first meeting, that this time was not to be spent in Words; and I am sure it is less fit for Disputes: which if I had a desire to entertain, Master Speaker's Preamble might have given Me ground enough.

The Question is not now, What Liberty you have in disposing of matters handled in the House; but rather, at this time what is fit to be done. Therefore I hope you will follow My example in eschewing Disputations, and fall to your important business.

You make a Protestation of your affection and zeal to My Prerogative, grounded upon so good and just reasons, that I must believe you: But I look that you use Me with the like charity, to believe what I have declared more than once since your meeting, which is, that I am as forward as you for the preservation of your true Liberties. Let us not spend so much time in this that may hazard both My Prerogative and your Liberties to our Enemies.

To be short, Go on speedily with your business, without any fear or more Apologies, for time calls fast upon you, which will neither stay for you nor Me: Wherefore it is My Duty to press you to hasten, as knowing the necessity of it; and yours to give credit to what I shall say, as to Him that sits at the Helm.

For what concerns your Petition, I shall answer it in a convenient time.

X. To the Lords and Commons, in Answer to their Petition of Right, June 11. MDCXXVIII.

GEntlemen, I am come hither to perform My Duty; and I think no man can think it long, since I have not taken so many daies in answering of the Petition as you have spent weeks in framing it: And I am come hither to shew you, that as well in for∣mal things as in essential I desire to give you as much content as in Me lieth.

The Lord Keeper having added somewhat in explanation and pursuance of the former, the Petition was read, and the King's Answer.

The King willeth that Right be done according to the Laws and Customs of the Land, and that the Statutes be put in due execution, that the Subjects may have no cause to complain of any wrong or oppression, contrary to their just Rights and Liberties, to the preservation whereof He holdeth Himself obliged as well as of His Prerogative.

XI. To the Lords and Commons; His second Answer to their Petition, in the House of Lords, June 7. MDCXXVIII.

MY Lords and Gentlemen, The Answer I have already given you was made with so good deliberation, and approved by the judgments of so many wise men, that I could not have imagined but that it should have given you full satisfaction: But to avoid all ambiguous interpretations, and to shew you that there is no doubleness in My mean∣ing, I am willing to please you in words as well as in substance.

Read your Petition, and you shall have an Answer that I am sure will please you.

The Petition being read by the Clerk of the Crown, the Clerk of the Parliament read the King's Answer;

LE DROICT SOIT FAIT COMME IL EST DESIRE. C. R.

Which done, His Majesty added,

This I am sure is full, yet no more than I granted you in My first Answer: for the meaning of that was, to confirm all your Liberties; knowing, according to your own Protestations, that you neither meant nor can hurt My Prerogative: And I assure you, My Maxime is, The Peoples Liberty strengthens the King's Prerogative, and that the King's Prerogative is to defend the Peoples Liberties.

You see now how ready I have shewed My self to satisfie your Demands; so that I have done My part: Wherefore if this Parliament have not an happy Conclusion, the sin is yours, I am free of it.

XII. To the House of Commons, at the reading of their Remonstrance, in the Banquetting-House at WHITE-HALL, June, 11. MDCXXVIII.

GEntlemen, Upon My Answer to your Petition of Right I expected no such Declara∣tion from you, which containeth divers points of State touching the Church and Common-wealth; and I do conceive, you do believe I understand them better than your

selves. But since the Reading thereof, I perceive you understand these things less than I imagined: Notwithstanding I will take them into My Consideration as they deserve.

XIII. To the Lords and Commons at the Prorogation of His Third Parliament, June 26. MDCXXVIII.

MY Lords and Gentlemen, It may seem strange that I come so suddenly to end this Session; therefore before I give My Assent to the Bills, I will tell you the cause; though I must avow, I ow an account of My Actions to none but God alone.

It is known to every one, that a while ago the House of Commons gave Me a Remon∣strance, how acceptable every man may judge; and for the merit of it I will not call that in question, for I am sure no wise man can justifie it.

Now since I am certainly informed that a second Remonstrance is preparing for Me, to take away My profit of Tonnage and Poundage, (one of the chief Maintenances of the Crown) by alledging, that I have given away My Right thereof by My Answer to your Petition: This is so prejudicial unto Me, that I am forced to end this Session some few hours before I meant it; being not willing to receive any more Remonstrances, to which I must give a harsh Answer.

And since I see that even the House of Commons begins already to make false constru∣ctions of what I granted in your Petition, lest it be worse interpreted in the Countrey, I will now make a Declaration concerning the true intent thereof.

The Profession of both Houses in the time of hammering this Petition was, no waies to trench upon My Prerogative, saying, they had neither intention, nor power to hurt it.

Therefore it must needs be conceived that I have granted no New, but only confirmed the Antient Liberties of My Subjects.

Yet to shew the clearness of My intentions, that I neither repent nor mean to recede from any thing I have promised you, I do here declare that those things which have been done, whereby men had some cause to suspect the Liberty of the Subject to be intrench'd upon (which indeed was the first and true ground of the Petition) shall not hereafter be drawn into example to your prejudice: and in time to come, in the word of a King, you shall not have the like cause to complain.

But as for Tonnage and Poundage, it is a thing I cannot want, and was never intended by you to ask, never meant (I am sure) by Me to grant.

To conclude, I command you all that are here to take notice of what I have spoken at this time, to be the true intent and meaning of what I granted you in your Petition: but especially you, My Lords the Judges; for to you only, under Me, belongs the inter∣pretation of the Laws: For none of the Houses of Parliament, joynt or separate, (what new Doctrine soever may be raised) have any power either to make or declare a Law, without My Consent.

XIV. To the Lords and Commons, in the Banquetting-House at WHITE-HALL, January 24. MDCXXVIII. IX.

MY Lords and Gentlemen, The care I have to remove all Obstacles that may hinder the good correspondencie between Me and this Parliament, is the cause I have cal∣led you hither at this time; the particular occasion being a complaint lately made in the Lower-House. And for you, My Lords, I am glad to take this and all other occasions whereby you may clearly understand both My Words and Actions: for as you are nearest in degree, so are you the fittest Witnesses for Kings.

The Complaint I speak of is, for staying mens Goods that denied Tonnage and Poun∣dage: And this may have an easy and short Conclusion, if My Words and Actions be rightly understood. For by passing the Bill, as Mine Ancestors have had it, My by-past Actions will be included, and My future Actions authorized: Which certainly would not have been stuck upon, if men had not imagined that I had taken this duty as appertaining to My Hereditary Prerogative: In which they are much deceived; for it ever was, and still is My meaning, by the gift of My People to enjoy it; and My intent in My Speech at the end of the last Session was, not to challenge Tonnage and Poundage as of Right, but de bene esse, shewing you the Necessity, not the Right, by which I was to take it, until I had it granted unto Me, assuring My self (according to your general professions) that you wanted time, not will, to grant it unto Me.

Wherefore now having opportunity, I expect that without loss of time you make good your professions, and so by passing the Bill, put an end to all Questions arising from this subject; especially since I have cleared all scruples that may trouble you in this business.

To conclude, Let us not be jealous of one anothers Actions; for if I had been easily moved at every occasion, the Order made on Wednesday last might have made Me startle, there being some shew to suspect that you had given your selves the liberty to be Inquirers after Complaints, the words of your Order being somewhat largely penned: but looking into your Actions, I find you here only Complainers, not seeking Complaints; for I am certain you neither intend nor desire the liberty to be Inquisitors after mens Actions before particular Complaints be made.

This I have spoken, to shew how slow I am to believe harshly of your Proceedings: likewise to assure you, that the Houses Resolution, not particular mens speeches, shall make Me judge well or ill: Not doubting but, according to mine example, you will be deaf to ill reports concerning Me, until My Words and Actions speak for themselves; but, this Session beginning with Confidence one towards the other, it may end with a perfect good understanding between us; which God grant.

XV. To the Lords and Commons, in Answer to their Petition for a Publick Fast, January 31. MDCXXVIII. IX.

MY Lords and Gentlemen, the chiefest motive of your Fast being the deplorable estate of the Reformed Churches abroad, is too true; and our duties are (so much as in us possibly lyeth) to give them help: But certainly Fighting will do them more good than Fasting. Though I do not wholly disallow the latter, yet I must tell you, that this Custom of Fasts every Sessions is but lately begun, and I confess I am not so fully satisfi∣ed with the necessity of it at this time. Yet to shew you how smoothly I desire our busi∣ness to go on, eschewing (as much as I can) Questions and Jealousies, I do willingly grant your request herein. But with this note, that I expect that this shall not hereafter be brought into Precedent for frequent Fasts, except upon great occasions.

As for the Form and Time, I will advise with My Lords the Bishops, and then send you a particular to both Houses.

XVI. To the House of Commons, in Answer to their Declaration concerning Tonnage and Poundage, Feb. 3. MDCXXVIII. IX.

YOur Declaration being somewhat long, may by reason require some time to reply unto it, since (as most of you cannot but judge) that this giveth Me no satisfaction. Therefore I shall give you some short Notes upon it.

I cannot think that, whereas you alledge that the Bill of Tonnage and Poundage was brought in against the Priviledge of your House, that you will offer to take so much Pri∣viledge from any one of your Members, as not to allow them the liberty to bring in any Bill whatsoever; though it be in your power when it is brought in, to do with it what you think good. And I cannot imagine how, coming hither only by My Power, and to treat of things I propound unto you, you can deny Me that Prerogative to recommend or offer any Bill unto you. Though in this particular I must profess, that this Bill was not to have been offered you in My Name, as that Member of your House can bear Me witness.

As for the cause of delay of My business being Religion, there is none of you shall have a greater care for the true preservation of it than My self; which since it is confessed by your Answer, ye must either think I want Power, (which cannot be) or that I am very ill-counselled, if it be in such danger as you affirm. Though I may say much of this point, I will say no more, but that for all this I shall not stop My Ears unto you upon this sub∣ject, so that in form and matter you transgress not your limits.

As for Tonnage and Poundage, I do not desire it out of greediness (being perswaded you will make no stop in it when you take it in hand) as out of a desire to put an end to all Questions that daily arise between Me and some of My Subjects; thinking it a strange thing, if you should give ear unto those Complaints, and not take the sure and speedy way to decide them.

Besides, I must think it strange, that this business of Religion should be only a hinde∣rer of My Affairs, whereas I am certainly informed, that all other things go on according to their ordinary course. Therefore I must still be instant with you, that you proceed with this business of Tonnage and Poundage with diligence; not looking to be denied in so just a desire. And you must not think it much, if finding you slack, I shall give you such further quickening as I find cause.

XVII. To the House of Lords, at the Dissolving of His Third Parliament, at WESTMINSTER, Mar. 10. MDCXXVIII. IX.

MY Lords, I never came here upon so unpleasing an occasion, it being the Dissolution of a Parliament. Therefore men may have some cause to wonder, why I should not rather chuse to do this by Commission, it being a general Maxime of Kings, to leave harsh Commands to their Ministers, Themselves only executing pleasing things. Yet considering that Justice as well consists in reward and praise of Vertue as punishing of Vice, I thought it necessary to come here to day, to declare to you, My Lords, and all the world, that it was merely the undutiful and seditious carriage of the Lower House that hath caused the Dissolution of this Parliament; and that You, My Lords, are so far from being causes of it, that I take as much Comfort in your dutiful demeanours as I am justly distasted with their Proceedings.

Yet to avoid mistakings, let Me tell you, that it is so far from Me to adjudge all that House guilty, that I know there are many there as dutiful Subjects as any in the world; it being but some few Vipers among them that cast this Mist of undutifulness over most of their Eyes. Yet to say truth, there was a good number there that would not be infected with this Contagion: insomuch that some did express their duties in speaking, which was the general fault of the House the last day.

To conclude, As these Vipers must look for their reward of punishment; so you, My Lords, may justly expect from Me that Favour and Protection that a Good King oweth to His loving and dutiful Nobility.

And now, My Lord Keeper, do what I have commanded you.

XVIII. To the Speaker of the House of Commons, April, MDCXL.

MAster Speaker, I will only say one word to you; Now that you are the Speaker, I command you to do the office of a Speaker, which is faithfully to report the great Cause of the Meeting, that My Lord Keeper in My Name did represent unto you the last day: with this assurance, That you giving Me your timely help in this great Affair, I shall give a willing ear to all your just Grievances.

XIX. To the House of Lords at WESTMINSTER, April 24. MDCXL.

His Majesty said,

THAT the cause of His coming was to put them in mind of what had been delivered by the Lord Keeper, in His Name, unto both Houses the first day of the Parliament, and after at White-Hall.

How, contrary to His expectation, the House of Commons having held Consultation of matter of Religion, Property of Goods, and Liberty of Parliament, and voted some things concerning those three Heads, had therefore given them the precedence before the matter of His Supply. That His Necessities were such, they could not bear delay. That whatsoever He had by the Lord Keeper promised, He would perform, if the House of Commons would trust Him.

For Religion, that His Heart and Conscience went together with the Religion established in the Church of England; and He would give Order to His Arch-Bishops and Bishops, that no Inno∣vation in matter of Religion should creep in.

For the Ship-money, that He never made or intended to make any profit to Himself of it, but only to preserve the Dominion of the Seas; which was so necessary, that without it the Kingdom could not subsist: But for the way and means, by Ship-money, or otherwise, He left it to them.

For Property of Goods, and Liberty of Parliament, He ever intended His People should injoy them, holding no King so Great as he that was King of a rich and free People; and if they had not Property of Goods and Liberty of Persons, they could be neither rich nor free.

That if the House of Commons would not first trust Him, all His Affairs would be disordered, and His business lost. That though they trusted Him in part at first, yet before the Parliament ended He must totally trust them; and in conclusion, they must, for execution of all things, wholly trust Him. Therefore since the matter was no more than who should be first trusted, and that the trust of Him first was but a trust in part; He desired the Lords to take into their consideration His and their own Honour, the Safety and Welfare of this Kingdom, with the great Danger it was in, and that they would by their Advice dispose the House of Commons to give His Supply the precedence before the Grievances.

XX. To the Lords and Commons, at the Dissolving of His Fourth Parliament, at WESTMINSTER, May 5. MDCXL.

MY Lords, There can no occasion of My coming to this House be so unpleasing to Me as this is at this time. The fear of doing that which I am to do at this day made Me not long agoe come to this House, where I expressed as well My fears, as the remedies I thought necessary for the eschewing of it. Unto which I must confess and ac∣knowledge that you, My Lords of the Higher House, did give me so willing an ear, and with such affection did shew your selves thereafter, that certainly I may say, if there had been any means to have given an happy end to this Parliament, you took it: So that it was neither your Lordships fault nor Mine, that it is not so. Therefore in the first place I must give your Lordships thanks for your good endeavours.

I hope you remember what My Lord Keeper said to you the first day of the Parlia∣ment, in My Name; what likewise he said in the Banquetting-House in White-Hall; and what I lately said to you in this place My self. I name all this unto you, not in doubt that you do not well remember it, but to shew, that I never said any thing in way of favour to My People, but that, by the Grace of God, I will really and punctually per∣form it.

I know that they have insisted very much on Grievances, and I will not say but that there may be some; though I will confidently affirm, that there are not by many degrees so many as the publick voice doth make them. Wherefore I desire you to take notice, now especially at this time, that out of Parliament I shall be as ready (if not more willing) to hear and redress any just Grievances as in Parliament.

There is one thing which is much spoken of, though not so much insisted on as others, and that is Religion: Concerning which albeit I expressed My self fully the last day in this place to your Lordships, yet I think it fit again on this occasion to tell you, that as I am most concerned, so I shall be most careful to preserve that purity of Religion which, I thank God, is so well established in the Church of England; and that as well out as in Parliament.

My Lords, I shall not trouble you long with words, it being not My fashion: wherefore to conclude, What I offered the last day to the House of Commons I think is well known to you all, as likewise how they accepted it; which I desire not to remember, but wish that they had remembred, how at first they were told, in My Name, by My Lord Keeper, That Delay was the worst kind of Denial. Yet I will not lay this fault on the whole House, for I will not judge so uncharitably of those whom for the most part I take to be Loyal and well-affected Subjects; but that it hath been the malicious cunning of some few seditiously-af∣fected men that hath been the cause of this Misunderstanding.

I shall now end as I began, in giving your Lordships thanks for your affection shewed to Me at this time; desiring you to go on to assist Me in the maintaining of that Regal Pow∣er that is truly Mine. And as for the Liberty of the People, that they now so much seem to startle at, know, My Lords, that no King in the World shall be more careful to maintain them in the Property of their Goods, Liberty of their Persons, and true Religion, than I shall be.

And now, My Lord Keeper, do what I have commanded you.

XXI. To the Great Council of Lords at YORK, September 24. MDCXL.

MY Lords, Upon sudden Invasions, where the dangers are near and instant, it hath been the custom of My Predecessors to assemble the Great Council of the Peers, by their Advice and Assistance to give a timely remedy to such evils as cannot admit a de∣lay, so long as must of necessity be allowed for the assembling the Parliament. This be∣ing our condition at this time, and an Army of Rebels lodged within the Kingdom, I thought it most fit to conform My self to the practice of My Predecessors in like cases, that with your advice and assistance we might joyntly proceed to the chastisement of their In∣solencies, and securing of Our good Subjects.

In the first place I must let you know, that I desire nothing more than to be rightly un∣derstood of My People; and to that end I have of My self resolved to call a Parliament, having already given order to My Lord Keeper to issue out the Writs instantly, so that the Parliament may be assembled by the third of November next: Whither if My Sub∣jects bring the like good affections as I do, it shall not fail on My part to make it a happy Meeting.

In the mean time there are two points to be considered, wherein I shall desire your Ad∣vice, which indeed is the chief cause of your Meeting.

First, What Answer to give to the Petition of the Rebels, and in what manner to treat with them. Of which that you may give a sure judgement, I have ordered that your Lordships shall be clearly and truly informed of the state of the whole business; and upon what reasons the Advices that My Privy Counsel unanimously gave Me were grounded.

Secondly, How My Army shall be kept on foot and maintained till the supplies of a Parliament may be had. For so long as the Scots Army remains in England, I think no man will counsel Me to disband Mine: for that would be an unspeakable loss to all this part of the Kingdom, by subjecting them to the greedy appetite of the Rebels; beside the unspeakable dishonour that would thereby fall upon this Nation.

XXII. To the Lords and Commons, at the Opening of His Fifth Parliament, at WESTMINSTER, November 3. MDCXL.

MY Lords, The knowledge that I had of the Designs of My Scotish Subjects was the cause of My calling the last Assembly of Parliament; wherein had I been be∣lieved, I sincerely think that things had not fallen out as now we see. But it is no won∣der that men are so slow to believe that so great a Sedition should be raised on so little ground.

But now, My Lords and Gentlemen, the Honour and Safety of this Kingdom lying so nearly at stake, I am resolved to put My self freely and clearly on the love and affections of My English Subjects, as those of My Lords that did wait on Me at York very well re∣member I there declared. Therefore, My Lords, I shall not mention Mine own Interest, or that Support I might justly expect from you, till the Common Safety be secured: Though I must tell you, I am not ashamed to say, those charges I have been at have been meerly for the securing and good of this Kingdom, though the success hath not been an∣swerable to My desires.

Therefore I shall only desire you to consider the best way both for the safety and secu∣rity of this Kingdom; wherein are two things chiefly considerable: First, the chasing out of the Rebels; and secondly, that other in satisfying your just Grievances; wherein I shall promise you to concur so heartily and clearly with you, that all the world may see, My intentions have ever been, and shall be, to make this a glorious and flourishing Kingdom.

There are only Two things more that I shall mention to you.

The one is, to tell you, that the lone of Money which I lately had from the City of London, wherein the Lords that waited on Me at York assisted Me, will only maintain My Army for two months, from the beginning of that time it was granted. Now, My Lords and Gentlemen, I leave it to your considerations, what dishonour and mischief it might be, in case for want of Money My Army be disbanded before the Rebels be put out of this Kingdom.

Secondly, the securing the Calamities the Northern People endure at this time, and so long as the Treaty is on foot: And in this I may say, not only they, but all this Kingdom will suffer the harm. Therefore I leave this also to your Consideration.

For the ordering of these Great Affairs whereof you are to treat at this time, I am so confident of your love to Me, and that your care is such for the Honour and Safety of the Kingdom, that I shall freely and willingly leave to you where to begin: Only this, that you may the better know the state of all the Affairs, I have commanded My Lord Keeper to give you a short and free account of those things that have happened in this in∣terim; with this Protestation, that if his account be not satisfactory as it ought to be, I shall, whensoever you desire it, give you a full and perfect account of every particular.

One thing more I desire of you, as one of the greatest means to make this an happy Parliament, That you on your parts, as I on Mine, lay aside all suspicion one of ano∣ther. As I promised My Lords at York, it shall not be My fault, if this be not a happy and good Parliament.

XXIII. To the House of Lords, at WESTMINSTER, Nov. 5. MDCXL.

MY Lords, I do expect that you will hastily make Relation to the House of Com∣mons of those Great Affairs for which I have called you hither at this time, and of the trust I have reposed in them, and how freely I put My self on their love and affe∣ctions at this time: And that you may know the better how to do so, I shall explain My self concerning one thing I spake the last day.

I told you, the Rebels must be put out of this Kingdom. 'Tis true, I must needs call them so, so long as they have an Army that does invade us, although I am under Treaty with them, and under My Great Seal do call them Subjects; and so they are too.

But the state of My Affairs in short is this: It's true, I did expect, when I did will My Lords and Great ones to be at York, to have given a gracious Answer to all their Grievan∣ces; for I was in good hope by their Wisdoms and Assistances to have made an end of that business: but I must tell you that My Subjects of Scotland did so delay them, that it was not possible to end there. Therefore I can no ways blame My Lords that were at Rippon, that the Treaty was not ended; but must thank them for their pains and industry. And certain∣ly, had they as much power as affections, I should by this time have brought these distem∣pers to a happy period. So that now the Treaty is transported from Rippon to London; where I shall conclude nothing without your knowledge, and I doubt not but by your ap∣probation: for I do not desire to have this great Work done in a corner; for I shall lay open all the steps of this Misunderstanding, and the causes of the great Differences between Me and My Subjects of Scotland. And I doubt not but by your assistance to make them know their Duty, and also by your assistance to make them return whether they will or no.

XXIV. To the Lords and Commons, at the Banquetting-House in WHITE-HALL, Jan. 25. MDCXL. XLI.

MY Lords, and you the Knights, Citizens and Burgesses, The principal cause of My coming here at this time is by reason of the slow proceedings in Parliament, touching which is a great deal of inconvenience: Therefore I think it very necessary to lay before you the state of My Affairs as they now stand, thereby to hasten, not to inter∣rupt, your proceedings.

First, I must remember you that there are two Armies in the Kingdom, in a manner maintained by you; the very naming of which doth more clearly shew the inconveni∣ence thereof than a better tongue than Mine can express. Therefore in the first place I shall commend unto you the quick dispatch of that business.

In the next place, I must recommend unto you the state of My Navy and Forts; the condition of both which is so well known unto you, that I need not tell you the particu∣lars: Only thus much, they are the walls and defence of this Kingdom, which if out of order, all men may easily judge what encouragement it will be to our Enemies, and what disheartning to our Friends.

Last of all, and not the least to be considered, I must lay before you the Distractions that are at this present occasioned through the connivence of Parliament: for there are some men that, more maliciously than ignorantly, will put no difference between Refor∣mation and Alteration of Government. Hence it cometh that Divine Service is irreve∣rently interrupted; and Petitions in an ill way given in, neither disputed nor denied.

But I will enter into no more particulars, but shew you a way of Remedy, by shewing you My clear intentions, and some Rocks that may hinder this Good Work.

I shall willingly and chearfully concur with you for the Reformation of all Innovations both in Church and Commonwealth; and consequently, that all Courts of Justice may be reformed according to Law. For My intention is clearly to reduce all things to the best and purest times, as they were in the time of Queen Elizabeth.

Moreover, whatsoever part of My Revenue shall be found illegal or heavy to My Sub∣jects, I shall be willing to lay down, trusting in their Affections.

Having thus clearly and shortly set down My intentions, I will shew you some Rubs; and must needs take notice of some very strange (I know not what term to give them) Petitions, given in in the names of divers Counties against the present established Govern∣ment of the Church, and of the great threatnings against the Bishops, that they will make them to be but Cyphers, or at least their Voices to be taken away.

Now I must tell you, that I make a great difference between Reformation and Altera∣tion of Government: Though I am for the first, I cannot give way to the latter.

If some of them have overstretched their power, and incroached too much upon the Temporalty, if it be so, I shall not be unwilling these things should be redressed and re∣formed, as all other Abuses, according to the wisdom of former times: So far I shall go with you. Nay further, if upon serious debate you shall shew Me that Bishops have some Temporal Authority inconvenient to the State, and not so necessary for the Govern∣ment of the Church and upholding Episcopal Jurisdiction, I shall not be unwilling to de∣sire them to lay it down. But this must not be understood, that I shall any way consent that their Voices in Parliament should be taken away: For in all the times of My Prede∣cessors, since the Conquest and before, they have enjoyed it; and I am bound to main∣tain them in it, as one of the Fundamental Constitutions of this Kingdom.

There is another Rock you are on, not in Substance, but in Form; yet the Form is so es∣sential, that unless it be reformed, it will marr the Substance.

There is a Bill lately put in concerning Parliaments. The thing I like well, to have frequent Parliaments: But to give power to Sheriffs and Constables, and I know not whom, to use My Authority, that I cannot yield unto. But to shew you that I am de∣sirous to give you contentment ••n Forms which destroy not the Substance, you shall have a Bill for this purpose, so that it trench neither against My Honour, nor against the an∣cient Prerogative of the Crown concerning Parliaments. To which purpose I have com∣manded My Learned Counsel to wait on you, My Lords, with such Propositions as I hope will give you content. For I ingenuously confess that frequent Parliaments are the best means to keep a right understanding between Me and My People, which I so much desire.

To conclude, I have now shewed you the state of My Affairs, My Own clear intenti∣ons, and the Rocks I wish you to eschew: in all which you may perceive the desire I have to give you content; as you shall find also by those Ministers I have or shall have about Me, for the effecting of these My good intentions, which I doubt not will bring peace and happiness to My Subjects, and contentment to you All.

Concerning the Conference, you shall have a direct Answer on Monday, which shall give you satisfaction.

XXV. To the Lords and Commons, in Answer to their Remonstrance about Papists, Feb. 3. MDCXL. XLI.

HAving taken into My serious Consideration the late Remonstrance of the Houses of Parliament, I give you this Answer:

That I take in good part your care of the true Religion established in this Kingdom, from which I will never depart; as also your tenderness of My Safety, and the Security of this State and Government. It is against My mind that Popery or Superstition should any way increase within this Kingdom; I will restrain the same by causing the Laws to be put in execution.

I am resolved to provide against the Jesuits and Papists, by setting forth a Proclamation with all speed, commanding them to depart the Kingdom within one Month: of which if they fail, or shall return, then they shall be proceeded against according to the Laws.

Concerning Rosetti, I give you to understand that the Queen hath always assured Me, that to Her knowledge he hath no Commission, but only to retain a Personal Correspon∣dence between Her and the Pope in things requisite for the exercise of Her Religion, which is warranted to Her by the Articles of Marriage, which gave Her a full liberty of Consci∣ence. Yet I have perswaded Her, that since the misunderstanding of that Persons condi∣tion gives offence, She will within a convenient time remove him.

Moreover, I will take a special care to restrain My Subjects from resorting to Mass at Denmark-House, Saint James's, and the Chappels of Ambassadors.

Lastly, concerning John Goodman the Priest, I will let you know the reason why I re∣prieved him, that as I am informed, neither Queen Elizabeth nor My Father did ever a∣vow, that any Priest in their times was executed merely for Religion, which to Me seems to be this particular Case. Yet seeing that I am pressed by both Houses to give way to this, because I will avoid the inconvenience of giving so great discontent to My People as I conceive this Mercy may produce, therefore I do remit this particular case to both the Houses. But I desire them to take into their Considerations the inconveniences (as I con∣ceive) that may upon this occasion fall upon My Subjects and other Protestants abroad, especially since it may seem to other States to be a severity. Which having thus repre∣sented, I think My self discharged from all ill consequences that may ensue upon the Exe∣cution of this person.

XXVI. To the House of Lords, at WESTMINSTER, Feb. 10. MDCXL. XLI.

MY Lords, That freedom and confidence which I expressed at the beginning of this Parliament to have of your love and fidelity towards My Person and Estate, hath made Me at this time come hither to acquaint you with that Alliance and Confederacy which I intend to make with the Prince of Orange and the States; which before this time I did not think expedient to do, because that part I do desire your Advice and Assistance upon was not ready to be treated on.

I will not trouble you with a long digression, by shewing the steps of this Treaty, but leave you to be satisfied in that by those who under Me do manage that Affair. Only I shall shew you the reasons which have induced Me to it, and in what I expect your Assi∣stance and Counsel.

The Considerations that have induced Me to it are these.

First, the matter of Religion: Here needs no Dispensation; no fear that My Daugh∣ter's Conscience may be any way perverted.

Secondly, I do esteem that a strict Alliance and Confederacy with the States will be as useful to this Kingdom as that with any of My Neighbou••••; especially considering their Affinity, Neighbourhood, and way of their Strength.

And lastly, (which I must never forget in these occasions) the use I may make of this Alliance towards the establishing of My Sister and Nephews.

Now to shew you in what I desire your Assistance, You must know that the Articles of Marriage are in a manner concluded, but not to be totally ratified until that of Alli∣ance be ended and agreed; which before I demanded your assistance, I did not think fit to enter upon. And that I may not leave you too much at large how to begin that Coun∣sel, I present you here the Propositions which are offered by Me to the States Ambassa∣dours for that intent.

And so, My Lords, I shall only desire you to make as much expedition in your Counsels, as so great a business shall require, and shall leave your Lordships to your own free debate.

XXVII. To the Lords and Commons, at His Passing the Bill for Triennial Parliaments, at WESTMINSTER, Feb. 15. MDCXL. XLI.

MY Lords, and you the Knights, Citizens and Burgesses of the House of Commons: You may remember, when both Houses were with Me at the Banquetting-House at White-Hall, I did declare unto you two Rocks I wished you to eschew: This is one of them, and of that consequence, that I think never Bill passed here in this House of more favour to the Subject than this is. And if the other Rock be as happily passed over as this shall be at this time, I do not know what you can ask, for ought I can see, at this time, that I can make any question to yield unto.

Therefore I mention this, to shew unto you the sense that I have of this Bill, and the Obligation, as I may say, that you have to Me for it. For hitherto, to speak freely, I had no great incouragement to do it; if I should look to the outward face of your Actions or Proceedings, and not to the inward Intentions of your hearts, I might make question of doing it.

Hitherto you have gone on in that which concerns your selves to amend, and not in those things that nearly concern the strength of this Kingdom, neither for the State, nor My Own particular.

This I mention, not to reproach you, but to shew you the state of things as they are. You have taken the Government all in pieces, and I may say it is almost off the Hinges: A skilful Watch-maker, to make clean his Watch, will take it asunder, and when it is put together it will go the better; so that he leave not out one pin of it.

Now as I have done all this on My part, you know what to do on yours: And I hope you shall see clearly, that I have performed really what I expressed to you at the begin∣ning of this Parliament, of the great trust I have of your affections to Me. And this is the great expression of trust, that before you do any thing for Me, I do put such a Confi∣dence in you.

XXVIII. To the Lords and Commons, about Disbanding the Armies in Ireland and England at the Banquetting-House in WHITE-HALL, April 28. MDCXLI.

MY Lords and Gentlemen, For Answer to your Desires, I say, First, Concerning the removal of Papists from Court, I am sure you all know what legal trust the Crown hath in this particular: and therefore I need not say any thing to give you assurance that I shall use it so that there shall be no just cause of Scandal.

Secondly, For disarming of Papists, I am very well content it shall be done according to Law.

Thirdly, For the Irish Army, you must understand, I am already upon Consultation how to disband it; but I find many difficulties in it: therefore I hold it not only fit to wish it, but to shew the way how it may be conveniently done.

This is not all I desire; but since you have mentioned the disbanding of Armies, it is My Duty to My Country, to wish for disbanding of all Armies, and to restore the same Peace to all My three Kigndoms that the King My Father did leave them in: And I con∣jure you, as you will answer the same to God and to your Country, to join with Me hear∣tily and speedily for the disbanding of the two Armies in England.

This is a very good time to speak of it; and there are but two waies to do it. One is, to answer their Petitions: and the second is, to provide Monies. You are Masters of the one, and, with Me, you are Judges of the other. And you shall not be readier (nor so ready) to bring this to a happy Conclusion, than I My self shall be.

XXIX. To the House of Lords, concerning the Bill of Attainder of the Earl of STRAFFORD, at WESTMINSTER, May 1. MDCXLI.

MY Lords, I had no intention to have spoken to you of this business this day, which is the great business concerning My Lord of Strafford, because I would do nothing that might serve to hinder your occasions. But now it comes so to pass, that seeing of ne∣cessity I must have part in the Judgment, I think it most necessary for Me to declare My Conscience therein.

I am sure you all know, I have been present at the hearing of this great Case from the one end to the other: And I must tell you, that in My Conscience I cannot condemn him of High Treason.

It is not fit for Me to argue this business; I am sure you will not expect that: A Po∣sitive Doctrine best becomes the Mouth of a Prince. Yet I must tell you three Truths, which I am sure no man can tell so well as My self.

First, That I had never any intention of bringing over the Irish Army into England, nor ever was advised by any body so to do.

Secondly, That there was never any debate before Me, either in Publick Counsel or Private Committee, of the disloyalty of my English Subjects, nor ever had I any suspi∣cion of them.

Thirdly, That I never was counselled by any to alter the least of any of the Laws of England, much less to alter all the Laws. Nay, I tell you this, I think no body durst ever be so impudent as to move Me to it: For if they had, I should have made them such an Example, and put such a mark upon them, that all Posterity should know My inten∣tions by it; for My intention was ever to govern by the Law, and no otherwise.

I desire to be rightly understood: for though I tell you in My Conscience I cannot con∣demn him of High Treason, yet I cannot say I can clear him of Misdemeanours. There∣fore I hope you may find out a way to satisfie Justice and your own fears, and not oppress My Conscience.

My Lords, I hope you know what a tender thing Conscience is; and I must declare unto you, that to satisfie the People I would do great matters: but in this of Conscience, nei∣ther Fear nor any other respect whatsoever shall ever make Me go against it.

Certainly I have not deserved so ill of this Parliament at this time, that they should press Me in this tender; therefore I cannot suspect you will go about it. Nay, for Misdeamea∣nours I am so clear in them, that, though I will not chalk out the way, yet I will shew you, that I think My Lord of Strafford is not fit hereafter to serve Me or the Common∣wealth in any place of Trust, no not so much as a Constable. Therefore I leave it to you, My Lords, to find out some such way as to bring Me out of this Streight, and keep your selves and the Kingdom from such inconveniences.

XXX. To the Lords and Commons, at His passing the Bill of Tonnage and Poundage, Jun. 22. MDCXLI.

I Do very willingly accept your offer made at this time as a testimony of your Love and beginning of your dutiful affections to Me; and I no waies doubt but that you will perform that which you have intimated unto Me, and that in due time you will perform the rest, when you have leisure.

I do not doubt likewise, but that in passing this Bill you will see a testimony of the trust and confidence I have in your affections; as also that I omit no occasion whereby I may shew that affection to My People that I desire My People would shew to Me: as in this Parliament hitherto, no body can say but that I have sought occasions both to shew My affections unto them, and to remove disputes.

And therefore in this particular Bill I hope you will know, that I do freely and frank∣ly give over the Right that My Predecessors have ever challenged unto Them, though, I confess, disputed, but yet they did never yield in Their times. Therefore you will un∣derstand this but a mark of My confidence, to put My self wholly upon the love and af∣fection of My People for My Subsistence. And therefore I hope that in prosecution of this you will go on as you have said; and that though you have rumours of jealousies and suspitions, by flying and idle discourses that have come to My ears, concerning the extraordinary way, I confess I never understood it otherwise than as having relation to the Scotish Army and preventing insurrection, which vanished as soon as they were born.

And therefore now you see My clearness, I leave that to you, and will not meddle with it one way or other; for I never had other design, but to win the affections of My Peo∣ple by My Justice in My Government.

XXXI. To the Lords and Commons, at His passing the Bills for taking away the High Commission and Star-Chamber, and regulating the Council-Table, July 5. MDCXLI.

I Come to do the Office which I forbore to do on Saturday last, to give determination to these two Bills. But before I do it, I must tell you, that I cannot but be very sen∣sible of those reports of discontent that I hear some have taken for not giving My consent on Saturday. Me thinks it seems strange that any one should think, I could pass two Bills of that importance that these were without taking some fit time to consider of them; for it is no less than to alter, in a great measure, those Fundamental Laws, Eccle∣siastical and Civil, which many of My Predecessors have established.

If you consider what I have done this Parliament, discontent will not sit in your hearts: For I hope you remember that I have granted, That the Judges hereafter shall hold their places quam diu se bene gesserint; I have bounded the Forests, not according to My Right, but according to late Customs; I have established the Property of the Subjects, witness the free giving, not taking away, the Ship-money; I have established by Act of Parliament the Property of the Subject in Tonnage and Poundage, which never was done in any of My Predecessors times; I have granted a Law for Triennial Parliaments, and given way to an Act for the securing of Moneys advanced for the disbanding of the Ar∣mies; I have given free course of Justice against Delinquents; I have put the Law in execution against Papists:

Nay, I have given way to every thing that you have asked of Me; and therefore Me thinks you should not wonder if in some things I begin to refuse. But I hope it shall not hinder your progress in your great affairs, and I will not stick upon trivial matters to give you content. I hope you are sensible of these beneficial favours bestowed on you at this time.

To conclude, You know that by your consent there is a prefixed time set for my going into Scotland, and there is an absolute necessity for it; I do not know but that things may so fall that it may be shortned: Therefore I hope you will hasten the dispatching of those great businesses that now are necessary to be done, and leave trivial and superficial mat∣ters to another meeting.

For My part, I shall omit nothing that may give you just contentment, and study no∣thing more than your happiness, and thereof I hope you shall see a very good testimony by passing these two Bills.

LE ROY LE VEULT.

I have one word more to speak to you, and I take now an occasion to present it unto both Houses, that thereby all the world shall see that there is a good understanding be∣tween Me and My People.

It is concerning My Nephew the Prince Elector Palatine, who having desired Me and the King of Denmark to give way to a Writing concerning the Deit at Ratisbone with the Emperour, I could not but send My Ambassador to assist him, though I am afraid I shall not have so good an Answer as I expect; which My Nephew foreseeing, hath desired Me, for the better countenance of the same, to make a Manifesto in My Name: which is a thing of great consequence, and should I do it alone, without the advice of My Par∣liament, it would rather be a scorn than otherwise: Therefore I do propose it unto you, that if you will advise Me to it, I think it were very fit to be published in My Name.

XXXII. To the Scotish Parliament, at EDINBURGH, Aug. 19. MDCXLI.

MY Lords and Gentlemen, There hath nothing been so displeasing to Me as those unlucky Differences which have happened between Me and My People; and nothing that I have more desired than to see this day, wherein I hope not only to settle these unhappy mistakings, but rightly to know and to be known of My Native Countrey.

I need not tell you (for I think it is well known to most) what difficulties I have passed through and overcome to be here at this present: Yet this I will say, If Love to My Native Countrey had not been a chief motive to this journey, other respects might easily have found a shift to do that by a Commission which I am come to perform My self. And this considered, I cannot doubt of such real testimonies of your affections for the maintenance of that Royal Power which I enjoy after an hundred and eight Descents, and which you have professed to maintain, and to which your own National Oath doth oblige you, that I shall not think any pains ill-bestowed.

Now the end of My coming is shortly this, to perfect whatsoever I have promised, and withal to quiet the Distractions which have and may fall out amongst you: And this I

mind not superficially, but fully and chearfully to perform. For I assure you that I can do nothing with more chearfulness, than to give My People a general satisfaction. Where∣fore not offering to endear My self unto you in words (which indeed is not My way) I desire in the first place to settle that which concerns the Religion and just Liberties of this My Native Countrey, before I proceed to any other Act.

XXXIII. To the Lords and Commons, after His return out of Scotland, at WESTMINSTER, Dec. 2. MDCXLI.

MY Lords and Gentlemen, I think it fit after, so long absence, at this first occasion to speak a few words unto you: but it is no ways in answer to Master Speaker's Learned Speech.

Albeit I have stayed longer than I expected to have done when I went away; yet in this I have kept My promise with you, that I have made all the hast back again that the setling of My Scotch affairs couldany ways permit. In which I have had so good success, that I will confidently affirm to you, that I have left that Nation a most peaceable and contented People: So that although I have a little misreckoned in Time, yet I was not deceived in My End.

But if I have deceived your expectations a little in the time of My return, yet I am assured that My expectation is as much and more deceived in the condition wherein I ho∣ped to have found some businesses at My return. For since that before My going I setled the Liberties of My Subjects, and gave the Law a free and orderly course, I expected to have found My People reaping the fruits of these benefits, by living in quietness and sa∣tisfaction of mind: But in stead of this, I find them disturbed with Jealousies, Frights, and Alarms of dangerous designs and plots; in consequence of which Guards have been set to defend both Houses. I say not this as in doubt that My Subjects affections are any way lessened to Me in this time of My absence, for I cannot but remember to My great comfort, the joyful reception I had now at My Entry into London; but rather, as I hope that My presence will easily disperse these fears. For I bring as perfect and true affecti∣ons to My People as ever Prince did, or as good Subjects can possibly desire. And I am so far from repenting Me of any Act I have done this Session for the good of My People, that I protest if it were to do again, I would do it; and will yet grant what else can be justly desired for satisfaction in point of Liberties, or in maintenance of the true Religion that is here established.

Now I have but one particular to recommend unto you at this time, It is Ireland; for which though I doubt not your care, yet Me thinks the preparations for it go but slowly on. The occasion is the fitter for Me now to mention it, because of the arrival of two Lords from Scotland, who come instructed from My Council there (who now by Act of Parlia∣ment have full power for that purpose) to answer that Demand which it pleased both Hou∣ses to make of Me by way of Petition that met Me at Barwick, and which the Duke of Rich∣mond sent back by My Command to My Scotch Council: Therefore My desire is, that both Houses would appoint a select Committee to end this business with these Noblemen.

I must conclude in telling you, that I seek My Peoples Happiness; for their flourishing is My greatest glory, and their affections My greatest strength.

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.

XXXV. To the House of Commons, about the Five Members, January 4. MDCXLI. II.

GEntlemen, I am sorry for this occasion of coming unto you. Yesterday I sent a Ser∣jeant at Arms upon a very important occasion, to apprehend some that by My Command were accused of High Treason; whereunto I did expect Obedience, and not a Message. And I must declare unto you here, that albeit no King that ever was in England shall be more careful of your Priviledges, to maintain them to the uttermost of His Power, than I shall be; yet you must know, that in cases of Treason no person hath a Priviledge. And therefore I am come to know if any of those persons that were accu∣sed are here. For I must tell you, Gentlemen, that so long as those persons that I have accused (for no slight crime, but for Treason) are here, I cannot expect that this House can be in the right way that I do heartily wish it. Therefore I am come to tell you, that I must have them wheresoever I find them.

Well, sithence I see all the Birds are flown, I do expect from you, that you shall send them unto Me as soon as they return hither. But I assure you in the word of a King, I never did intend any force, but shall proceed against them in a legal and fair way, for I never meant any other.

And now sithence I see I cannot do what I came for, I think this no unfit occasion to re∣peat what I have said formerly, That whatsoever I have done in favour and to the good of My Subjects, I do mean to maintain it.

I will trouble you no more, but tell you, I do expect, as soon as they do come to the House, you will send them to Me; otherwise I must take My Own course to find them.

XXXVI. To the Citizens of LONDON, at GUILD-HALL, January 5. MDCXLI. II.

GEntlemen, I am come to demand such Prisoners as I have already attained of High Treason, and do believe they are shrowded in the City. I hope no good man will keep them from Me; their offences are Treason and Misdemeanours of an high nature. I desire your loving assistance herein, that they may be brought to a Legal Trial.

And whereas there are divers suspicions raised that I am a favourer of the Popish Religi∣on, I do profess in the name of a King, that I did and ever will, and that to the utmost of My power, be a prosecutor of all such as shall any ways oppose the Laws and Statutes of this Kingdom, either Papist or Separatist; and not only so, but I will maintain and defend that true Protestant Religion which My Father did profess, and I will still continue in during Life.

XXXVII. To the Committe of both Houses, at the delivery of the Petition for the Militia, at THEORALDS, Mar. 1. MDCXLI. II.

I Am so amazed at this Message, that I know not what to answer. You speak of Jealou∣sies and Fears; lay your hands to your hearts, and ask your selves whether I may not likewise be disturbed with Fears and Jealousies: and if so, I assure you, this Message hath nothing lessened them.

For the Militia, I thought so much of it before I sent that Answer, and am so much assu∣red that the Answer is agreeable to what in justice or reason you can ask, or I in Ho∣nour grant, that I shall not alter it in any point.

For my residence near you, I wish it might be so safe and honourable, that I had no cause to absent My self from White-Hall: Ask your selves whether I have not.

For My Son, I shall take that care of him which shall justifie Me to God as a Father, and to My Dominions as a King.

To conclude, I assure you upon My Honour that I have no thought but of Peace and Justice to My People: which I shall by all fair means seek to preserve and maintain, relying upon the goodness and providence of God for the preservation of My Self and Rights.

XXXVIII. To the Committee of both Houses, at the presenting of their Declaration, at NEW-MARKET, March 9. MDCXLI. II.

I Am confident that you expect not I should give you a speedy Answer to this strange and unexpected Declaration: And I am sorry (in the Distractions of this Kingdom)

you should think this way of Address to be more convenient than that proposed by My Message of the 20^th of Jan. last to both Houses.

As concerning the grounds of your Fears and Jealousies, I will take time to answer par∣ticularly; and doubt not but I shall do it to the satisfaction of all the world. God in his good time will, I hope, discover the secrets and bottoms of all Plots and Treasons; and then I shall stand right in the eyes of all My People. In the mean time I must tell you, that I rather expected a vindication from the imputation laid on Me in Master Pym's Speech, than that any more general Rumours and Discourses should get credit with you.

For My Fears and Doubts, I did not think they should have been thought so groundless or trivial, while so many seditious Pamphlets and Sermons are looked upon, and so great Tumults remembred, unpunished, uninquired into. I still confess My Fears, and call God to witness, that they are greater for the true Protestant Profession, My People and Laws, than for My own Rights or Safety; though I must tell you, I conceive that none of these are free from danger.

What would you have? Have I violated your Laws? Have I denied to pass any one Bill for the ease and security of My Subjects? I do not ask you what you have done for Me.

Have any of My People been transported with Fears and Apprehensions? I have offer∣ed as free and general a Pardon as your selves can devise. All this considered, There is a Judgment from Heaven upon this Nation if these Distractions continue.

God so deal with Me and Mine, as all My thoughts and intentions are upright for the maintenance of the true Protestant Profession, and for the Observation and Preservation of the Laws of this Land: And I hope God will bless and assist those Laws for My pre∣servation.

As for the Additional Declaration, you are to expect an Answer to it when you shall receive the Answer to the Declaration it self.

Some Passages that happened Mar. 9. between His Majesty and the Committee of both Houses, when the Declaration was delivered.

When His Majesty heard that part of the Declaration which mentioned Master Jermin's Tran∣sportation, His Majesty interrupted the Earl of Holland in reading, and said, That's false: which being afterwards touch'd upon again, His Majesty then said, 'Tis a lie: And when He was informed, it related not to the Date, but the Execution of the Warrant, His Majesty said, It might have been better expressed then; and that it was a high thing to tax a King with breach of Promise.

As for this Declaration, I could not have believed the Parliament would have sent Me such an one, if I had not seen it brought by such persons of Honour. I am sorry for the Parliament, but glad I have it: For by that I doubt not to satisfie My People; though I am confident the greater part is so already.

Ye speak of ill Counsels; but I am confident the Parliament hath had worse Informa∣tions than I have had Counsels.

His Majesty asking what he had denied the Parliament; the Earl of Holland instanced that of the Militia: His Majesty replyed, That was no Bill. The Earl then said, It was a necessary request at this time: His Majesty also replied, He had not denied it.

What passed next day, when His Majesty delivered His Answer.

The Earl of Holland having read His Majesty's Answer to the rest of the Committee, endea∣voured to perswade His Majesty to come near the Parliament. To which His Majesty answered, I would you had given Me cause; but I am sure this Declaration is not the way to it: and in all Aristotle's Rhetoricks there is no such Argument of Perswasion.

The Earl of Pembrook thereupon telling His Majesty, that the Parliament had humbly be∣sought His Majesty to come near them, as aforesaid; His Majesty replyed, He had learnt by their Declaration that words were not sufficient. The Earl again moving His Majesty to express what He would have, His Majesty said, He would whip a Boy in Westminster-School that could not tell that by His Answer: And, That they were much mistaken, if they thought His Answer of that a Denial.

The Earl of Pembrook then asking, whether the Militia might not be granted as was desired by the Parliament, for a time; His Majesty answered, Not for an hour. You have ask'd that of Me in this was never ask'd of a King, and with which I will not trust My Wife and Children.

His Majesty also said, The business of Ireland will never be done in the way that you are in: Four hundred will never do that work: it must be put into the hands of One. If I were trusted with it, I will pawn My Head to end that work. And though I am a Begger My self, yet (speaking with a strong asseveration) I can find Money for that.

XXXIX. To the Gentry of Yorkshire, when they presented their Petition; April 5. MDCXLII.

MAster Sheriff, and Gentlemen, I believe you expect not a present and particular an∣swer to your Petition, because it is new to Me. Only in general I must tell you, that I see by it that I am not deceived in the Confidence I have in the affections of this Coun∣ty to my Person and State: And I assure you, that I will not deceive your Confidence, which at this time you have declared in your Petition to have in Me, and I am glad to see that it is not upon mistaken grounds, as other Petitions have been to Me since I came to this place. Concerning which let Me observe unto you, that my Answers were to clear those mistakings: for I never did go about to punish or discourage them from Petitioning to Me in an humble way, though the subject did not agree with My sense; albeit within the memory of man people have been discouraged and threatned to be punished for Pe∣titions.

I observe that your Petition is so modest, that it doth not mention any particular for your own good; which indeed I expected, as knowing that in some particulars you have great reason to do it. And therefore that you may not fare the worse for your Modesty, I will put you in mind of three particulars which I conceive to be for the good of this Country.

The first is concerning your trained Bands, to reduce them to a lesser number; for which I confess to stand ingaged by promise to you, which I had performed long since; if I had been put in mind of it. And now I tell you, shew Me but the way, and, when you shall think fit, I shall instantly reduce them to that number which I promised you two years ago.

The second is, that which is owing to this Countrey for Billet-money. The truth is, that for the present I cannot repay it: Only I will say this, that if all the water had gone to the right Mill, upon My word you had been long ago satisfied in this particular. And so I leave to your discretions, which way you will advise and assist Me to comply with the engagements to you in this point.

The third is, that for which I was petitioned as I came up the last year both by the Lord Mayor and Aldermen of this City, and likewise by divers others of this County as I went Southward, and that is concerning the Court of York. And first let me tell you, that as yet I know no legal Dissolution of it, for hitherto formally there is nothing come to me, either directly or indirectly, for the taking of it away: therefore I may say, it is rather shaken in pieces than dissolved. Now my desire is, in compliance to what I answered the last year unto the several Petitions delivered to me upon this subject, that you would consult and agree among your selves, in what manner you would have the Court established most to your own contentments, and to the good of all these Northern parts, in such a Legal way as that it may not justly be excepted against; and I assure you in the word of an honest man, that you shall not blame me if you have not full satisfaction in it.

Within a day or two ye shall have a particular Answer to your Petition, which shall be such an one as I am confident will give you good satisfaction, and put you into such away as, I hope, may produce good effects to the good of all this Kingdom.

XL. To the Gentry of Yorkshire, at YORK, May 12. MDCXLII.

GEntlemen, I have cause of adding, not altering what I meant to say, when I gave out the summons for this daies appearance. I little thought of these Messengers, or of such a Message as they brought: The which, because it confirms me in what I intend to speak, and that I desire you should be truly informed of all Passages between me and the Parliament, you shall hear read; first, my Answer to the Declaration of both Houses concerning Hull; the Answer of the Parliament to my two Messages concerning Hull, together with my reply to the same; and my Message to both Houses, declaring the Rea∣sons why I refused to pass the Bill concerning the Militia.

All which being read, His Majesty proceeded;

I will make no Paraphrases upon what ye have heard; it is more befitting a Lawyer than a King. Only this observation, Since Treason is countenanced so near me, it is time to look to my Safety. I avow, it was part of my wonder, that men whom I thought heretofore discreet and moderate should have undertaken this imployment;

and that, since they came, I having delivered them the Answer you have heard, and commanded them to return personally with it to the Parliament, they should have flatly disobeyed Me, upon pretence of the Parliament's Command. My end in telling you this is, to warn you of them; for since these men have brought me such a Message, and disobeyed so lawful a Command, I will not say what their intent of staying here is: Only I bid you take heed, not knowing what Doctrine of Disobedience they may preach to you, under colour of obeying the Parliament. Hitherto I have found and kept you quiet, the enjoying of which was a chief cause of My coming hither, Tumults and Disorders having made Me leave the South; and not to make this a seat of War, as Malice would (but, I hope, in vain) make you believe. Now if Disturbances come, I know whom I have reason to suspect.

To be short, You see that my Magazine is going to be taken from me, being my Own proper Goods, directly against my will; the Militia, against Law and my Consent, is going to be put in execution; and lastly, Sir J. Hotham's Treason is countenanced. All this considered, none can blame me to apprehend Dangers. Therefore I have thought fit upon these real grounds to tell you, that I am resolved to have a Guard (the Parliament having had one all this while upon imaginary Jealousies) only to secure my Person. In which I desire your concurrence and assistance, and that I may be able to protect you, the Laws, and the true Protestant Profession, from any affront or injury that may be offered; which I mean to maintain my self, without charge to the Countrey; intending not longer to keep them on foot than I shall be secured of my just apprehensions, by having satisfaction in the particulars before mentioned.

XLI. To the Inhabitants of Nottinghamshire, at NEWARK, July 4. MDCXLII.

GEntlemen, Your honest Resolutions and Affections to Me and your Country, for the defence of My Person and the Laws of the Land, have been and are so notable, that they have drawn Me hither only to thank you: I go to other places to confirm and un∣deceive my Subjects, but am come hither only to thank and incourage you.

You have made the best judgment of happiness, by relying on that Foundation which the experience of so many hundred years hath given such proof of, The Assurance and Se∣curity of the Law. And assure your selves, when Laws shall be altered by any other Au∣thority than that by which they were made, your Foundations are destroyed: and though it seems at first but to take away my Power, it will quickly swallow all your Interest.

I ask nothing of you, though your demeanure gives Me good evidence that you are not willing to deny, but to preserve your own affections to the Religion and Laws esta∣blished. I will justifie and protect those affections, and will live and die with you in that quarrel.

XLII. To the Inhabitants of Lincolnshire, at LINCOLN, July 15. MDCXLII.

GEntlemen, If I could have suspected your Affections, or have censured the Duty of this County by some late Actions in it, I should not have taken this pains to have given you a testimony of my Affection to you, and to remove those Objections, which being raised by a Malignant party, may, by their cunning and industry, get credit even with honest minds.

The truth is, I come to you to assure you of My purposes and Resolutions for the de∣fence of whatever is and should be dear unto you, your Religion, your Liberty, your common Interest, and the Laws of the Land; and to undeceive you of that opinion which I hear hath mis-led many of you, that the pretended Ordinance of the Militia is war∣ranted by my Consent and Authority. As I have already informed you by my several Declarations and Messages, that the same is against the known Law, and an invasion of my unquestionable Right, and of your Liberty and Property; so I do now declare unto you, that the same is imposed upon you against my express Consent, and in contempt of my Regal Authority: And therefore whosoever shall henceforth presume to execute or obey the same, I shall proceed against them as against such who promote Rebellion, and actually levy War against Me.

And I doubt not but you will sadly consider, that if any Authority without and against my Consent may lawfully impose such burthens upon you, it may likewise take away

all that you have from you, and subject you to their lawless Arbitrary Power and Go∣vernment. And how far they are like to exercise that jurisdiction towards you, you may guess by the insolence of Sir John Hotham at Hull, who, being a Subject, not only pre∣sumes to keep his Sovereign by force of Arms out of His Town; but murthers his fel∣low-Subjects, imprisons them, burns their houses, drowns their land, takes them cap∣tive, and commits such Outrages and acts of Hostility, as the most unequal and outragi∣ous Enemies practise in any Country: That you may see how impossible it is for your Liberties and Properties to be preserved, when your King is oppressed, and His just Rights taken from Him. Who hath brought these Calamities upon your Neighbours at Hull every man sees; and they only can bring the same upon you.

I will not believe you to be so insensible of the benefits you have received from Me, that I need put you in mind of the Gracious Acts passed by Me this Parliament on your behalfs: And if there be any thing wanting to the making you the happiest Subjects in the world, I am sure it is not My fault that you have not that too. Be not deceived with words and general expressions: It is not in your power to name one particular which might make you happy, that I have refused to grant.

Be not frighted with apprehensions that this Country is like to be the seat of War. The seat of a War will be only where persons rise in Rebellion against Me: that will not, I hope, be here; and then you shall be sure of My Protection; I will live and dye in your defence. And that you may be in a readiness and a posture to defend your selves and Me against any Invasion or Rebellion, I have armed several Persons of Honor, Quality and Reputation amongst you, and of your own Country, with a Commission of Array to that purpose. There is no honest end declared in that Ordinance which is not pro∣vided for by this Commission; which being according to the old known Law, is fit for your obedience, and I doubt not but you will find it.

In a word, I assure you upon the Faith and Honor of a Christian King, I will be al∣ways as tender of any thing which may advance the true Protestant Religion, protect and preserve the Laws of the Land, and defend the just Privilege and Freedom of Par∣liament, as of My Life or My Crown: And when I fail in either of these, I will not look for your assistance. Till then you are concerned not to see Me suffer.

XLIII. To the Inhabitants of Leicester, at LEICESTER, July 20. MDCXLII.

GEntlemen, Since I have found My Presence so very acceptable amongst My Good Subjects in these Northern parts, and that the Errors and Mistakes among them have wholly proceeded from misinformation, and are removed with more satisfaction and ease to them than they were received; I hold it a piece of My Duty, to take the ut∣most pains I can fully to inform and undeceive My People, and rather to prevent Crimes than to punish them.

In this Errand I am come to you, amongst whom there hath not been the least mis∣understanding, to shew you that I do not suspect any malice in the Place or in the People, though persons of as ill dispositions have been busie in it and amongst you as in any County in England, and such who have taken as great pains to do mischief and to bring confusion, as good men should for Peace and happiness: Though 'tis as true, that very many worthier Persons amongst you have appeared of contrary affections, which I shall always acknowledge.

I am come to you in a time too when nothing could invite Me to such a journey but My affection to and good esteem of you; having sent such Propositions of Peace and Ac∣commodation to My two Houses of Parliament, that I hope to have no other use of your affections but in your Prayers; being sure they will submit to them with alacrity, if the unexcusable enemies of the Peace of the Kingdom be not strong enough to prevail. And then you will find your selves so much concerned (for I have required nothing that with more justice can be denied Me, if it be duly weighed, than My Crown or My Life may be taken from Me) that I shall not need to ask your assistance, I know you will bring Horse, Men, Money, and Hearts worthy such a Cause. Your Religion, your Liberties, your Laws, which I will defend with My Life, (I mean the good known Laws of the Land; not Ordinances without My Consent, which till within these twelve months were never heard of from the Foundation of this Kingdom) will be the Quarrel: and in such a Cause the taking away My Towns, Ships, Arms and Money from Me shall not dishearten Me. The concurrence and affection of My People, with God's blessing, will supply and recover all.

XLIV. To the Gentry of Yorkshire, Aug. 4. MDCXLII.

GEntlemen, when I directed that Summons should be sent out for your meeting here this day, My principal end was, That I might give you thanks for the great for∣wardness and expressions you have made of your affections to Me since I came into this Country; and to assure you, that as the whole Kingdom hath great reason to value you exceedingly for it, so I shal be ever unsatisfied with My self till I have found some way to fix a mark of favour and estimation upon this County and this People, which may tell Posterity how good Subjects you have been, and how much Gentlemen; and I am con∣fident the memory of it will grow up with My Sons too in a just acknowledgment. This was the most I intended to say to you. But there is an unquiet spirit abroad, which every day throws in new accidents to disturb and confound the publick Peace.

How I was driven from London when I chose this place for My Safety, is so notorious, that all men know it who know any thing. With what strange violence and indignities I have been pursued since I came hither, needs no other evidence than Sir J. Hotham's beha∣viour at Hull, who is now arrived to that insolence, that he will not suffer his Treason to be longer confined within those walls, but makes Sallies out of the Town upon his fellow-Subjects, drowns their land, burns and plunders their Houses, murthers and (with un∣heard of cruelty) torments their persons: and this with so much delight, that he would not have the patience to wait what Answer should be sent to My just Demands, though in that respect I engaged My self to forbear to use any force, and kept My word; but chose the night before that came, as if he knew well what Answer I was to receive, to act those out∣rages.

Ye see the sad effects of Fears and Jealousies, the miseries they have produced: no man can tell you the least good they have brought forth, or the least evil they have prevented. What inconvenience and burthen My Presence hath been here, what disturbance it hath brought upon the Publick, or grievance upon any private person, your selves are best judges. And whatever scandal some men have pleased to cast upon the Cavaliers, (which they intend should reach all My Retinue, and by degrees shall involve all Gentlemen) I am confident there hath not been any eminent disorder or damage befallen any man by any person of My Train or under My protection. I am sure My directions have been very strict in that point; and if they had not been observed, I think I should have heard of it by nearer complaints than from London. I pray God the same care may be taken there: I am sure it hath not been.

And to give you the fullest testimony of My affection to you and to the Peace of this County, and to shew you that no provocation shall provoke Me to make this place to be the seat of the War, I have for your sakes passed over the considerations of Honor, and notwithstanding the reproaches every day laid on Me, laid no siege to that place, that they may not have the least pretence of doing you mischief, but resolve by God's help to recover Hull some other way; for that I will ever sit down under so bold and unex∣cusable a Treason no honest man can imagine.

But it seems other men are not of My mind, but resolve to make a War at your own doors, whatsoever you do or I suffer. To what purpose else is their new General armed with an Authority to kill and destroy all My good Subjects; their levies of Horse and Foot, some whereof are upon their march towards you with Canon mounted; and the sending so many new Soldiers into Hull, when there is no approach made towards it, but to sally out, and to commit rapine, and by degrees to pour out an Army upon you? In this I must ask you advice, what you would do for your selves, and what you would have Me do for you. You see how I am stript of my Navy at Sea, which is employed against Me; of My Forts and Towns at Land, which are filled with armed men to destroy Me; My Money and Provisions of My House taken from Me, and all My Subjects forbid and threatned if they come near Me, that I may be Famine or Solitariness be compelled to yield to the most dishonourable Propositions, and to put My self and Children into the hands of a few Ma∣lignant persons, who have entred into a Combination to destroy Us. And all this done un∣der pretence of a Trust reposed by the People. How far you are from committing any such Trust, most of the persons trusted by you and your own expressions of Duty to Me have manifested to all the world; and how far the whole Kingdom is from avowing such a Trust, hath already in a great measure, and I doubt not will more every day appear by the professions of every County: For I am wholly cast upon the affections of My People, and have no hope but in the blessing and assistance of God, the justness of My Cause, and the Love of My Subjects, to recover what is taken from Me and them, for I may justly say they are equal losers with Me.

Gentlemen, I desire you to consider what course is to be taken for your own security from the excursions from Hull, and the violence which threatens you from thence: I will assist you any way you propose.

Next, I desire you, out of the publick provision or your private store, to furnish Me with such a number of Arms (Muskets and Corslets) as you may conveniently spare; which I do promise to see fully repay'd to you. These Arms I desire may be speedily delivered to the custody of My Lord Mayor of York for my use, principally for those parts which, by reason of their distance from Hull, are least subject to the fear of violence from thence. And whosoever shall so furnish Me, shall be excused from their attendance and service at Musters, till their Arms shall be restored; which may well be sooner than I can pro∣mise, or you expect.

I desire nothing of you, but what is necessary to be done for the preservation of God's true Religion, the Laws of the Land, the Liberty of the Subject, and the very Being of this Kingdom of England; for 'tis too evident all these are at stake.

For the compleating of My Son's Regiment for the Guard of His Person under the Command of my Lord of Cumberland, I referr it wholly to your selves, who have ex∣pressed such forwardness in it.

XLV. To His Army, after the Reading of His Orders, between Stafford and Wellington, September 19. MDCXLII.

GEntlemen, You have heard these Orders read; it is your part in your several places to observe them exactly. The time cannot be long before we come to Action, therefore you have the more reason to be careful: And I must tell you, I shall be very se∣vere in the punishing of those, of what condition soever, who transgress these Instructions.

I cannot suspect your Courage and Resolution. Your Conscience and your Loyalty hath brought you hither to fight for your Religion, your King, and the Laws of the Land: You shall meet with no enemies but Traitors, most of them Brownists, Anabap∣tists, and Atheists, such who desire to destroy both Church and State, and who have already condemned you to ruine for being Loyal to Us.

That you may see what use I mean to make of your Valour, if it please God to bless it with success, I have thought fit to publish My Resolution to you in a Protestation, which when you have heard Me make, you will believe you cannot fight in a better Quarrel; in which I promise to live and die with you.

I do promise in the presence of Almighty God, and as I hope for His Blessing and Protection, that I will to the utmost of My Power defend and maintain the true Re∣formed Protestant Religion established in the Church of England; and, by the Grace of God, in the same will live and die.

I desire to govern by the known Laws of the Land; and that the Liberty and Property of the Subject may be by them preserved with the same care as My own just Rights. And if it please God, by his blessing upon this Army raised for My necessary Defence, to pre∣serve Me from this Rebellion, I do solemnly and faithfully promise in the sight of God, to maintain the just Privileges and Freedom of Parliament, and to govern by the known Laws of the Land to My utmost power, and particularly to observe inviolably the Laws consented to by Me this Parliament. In the mean while, if this time of War, and the great necessity and streights I am now driven to, beget any violation of those, I hope it shall be imputed by God and Man to the Authors of this War, and not to Me, who have so earnestly laboured for the preservation of the Peace of this Kingdom.

When I willingly fail in these particulars, I will expect no aid or relief from any Man, or protection from Heaven: But in this Resolution I hope for the chearful as∣sistance of all good men, and am confident of God's Blessing.

XLVI. To the Inhabitants of Denbigh and Flint, at WREXHAM, September 27. MDCXLII.

GEntlemen, I am willing to take all occasions to visit all My good Subjects, in which number I have cause to reckon you of these two Counties, having lately had a good expression of your Loyalty and Affections to Me, by those Levies which at your charge have been sent Me from your parts; which forwardness of yours I shall alwayes remember to your advantage; and to let you know how I have been dealt with by a

powerful Malignant party in this Kingdom, whose designs are no less than to destroy my Person and Crown, the Laws of the Land, and the present Government both of Church and State.

The Leaders of these men, by their subtilty and cunning practices, have so prevailed upon the meaner sort of people about London, that they have called them up into frequent and dangerous tumults, and thereby have chased from thence My self and the greatest part of the Members of both Houses of Parliament. Their power and secret Plots have had such influence upon the small remaining part of both Houses, that under colour of Orders and Ordinances made without the Royal Assent, a thing never heard of before this Parliament, I am robb'd and spoiled of my Towns, Forts, Castles and Goods, my Navy forcibly taken from me, and imployed against me, all my Revenues stopt and seised upon; and at this time a powerful Army is marching against me.

I wish this were all: They have yet further laboured to alienate the affections of my good People, they have most injuriously vented many false reproaches against my Person and Government, they have dispersed in print many notorious false scandals upon my actions and intentions, and in particular have laboured to cast upon me some aspersions concerning the horrid, bloody and impious Rebellion in Ireland. They tell the People that I have recalled two Ships appointed for the Guard of these Seas. 'Tis true: but they conceal that at the same time I sent my Warrants to the Downs, commanding four as good Ships to attend that service instead of those should be recalled; which Warrant by their means could not find obedience. They forget that they then imployed forty Ships (many of them my Own, and all of them set forth at the publick charge of this and that Kingdom) to rob and pillage me of my Goods, to chase my good Subjects, and main∣tain my own Town of Hull against me; and that by the absence of those Ships from the Irish Seas, the Rebells have had opportunity to bring store of Arms, Ammunition and Supplies to their succours, to which we may justly impute the Calamities which have over whelmed my poor Protestant Subjects there. They cry out upon a few suits of cloaths appointed, as they say, for Ireland, which some of my Forces took; but conceal that they were taken as entring into Coventry, then in open Rebellion against me, where I had reason to believe they would have been disposed of amongst their Soldiers who then bore Arms against me. They talk of a few horses which I have made use of for my Carriages; concealing that they were certified to be useless for the service of Ire∣land; when they themselves have seised an hundred thousand pounds particularly ap∣pointed by Act of Parliament for the relief of Ireland, where my Army is ready to perish for want of it, and imployed it, together with such part of the four hundred thou∣sand pound Subsidie as they have received, to maintain an unnatural Civil War at home.

Neither have they used their fellow-Subjects better than they have done me their King. By their Power the Law of the Land, your birth-right, is trampled upon, and in stead thereof they govern my People by Votes and Arbitrary Orders. Such as will not sub∣mit to their unlimited power are imprisoned, plundered, and destroyed: such as will not pay such exactions as they require toward this Rebellion, are threatned to be put out of Protection, as they call it of the Parliament: such as conscientiously remember their Duty and Loyalty to me their Soveraign, are reviled, persecuted, and declared Traitors: such as do desire to maintain the true Protestant Religion as it is established by the Laws of the Land, are traduced and called Popish and Superstitious, and on the contrary, such as are known Brownists, Anabaptists, and publick depravers of the Book of Common Prayer, are countenanced and incouraged. They exact and receive Tonnage and Poundage and other great duties upon Merchandises, not only without Law, but in the face of an Act of Parliament to the contrary, past this present Parliament, which puts all men into the condition of a Praemunire that shall presume so to oppress the People.

If you desire to know who are the Contrivers of these wicked designs, you shall find some of their names in particular, and their actions at large, in my Declaration of the twelfth of August, to which I shall refer you. I wish their craft and power were not such, that few of those Copies can come to the view of my good People. Since that time these men so thirst after the destruction of this Kingdom, that they have prevailed to make all my offers of Treaty (which might bring Peace to this Kingdom, and beget a good understanding between Me and my Parliament) fruitless.

In this distress into which these men have brought Me and this Kingdom, my confi∣dence is in the Protection of Almighty God and the affections of my good People. And that you may clearly see what my Resolutions are, I shall cause my voluntary Pro∣testation lately taken to be read to you: And I desire that the Sheriffs of these two Counties will dispose Copies of that and what I now deliver unto you, having no other

way to make it publick; these men having restrained the use of my Presses at London and the Universities.

XLVII. To the Inhabitants of Shropshire, at SHREWSBURY, Sept. 28. MDCXLII.

GEntlemen, It is some benefit to me from the insolencies and misfortunes which have driven Me about, that they have brought Me to so good a part of my King∣dom, and to so faithful a part of my People. I hope neither you nor I shall repent My coming hither: I will do My part that you may not, and of you I was confident before I came.

The residence of an Army is not usually pleasant to any place; and Mine may carry more fear with it, since it may be thought (being robbed and spoiled of all My Own, and such terror used to fright and keep all men from supplying Me) I must only live up∣on the aid and relief of My People. But be not afraid; I would to God my poor Sub∣jects suffered no more by the insolence and violence of that Army raised against Me, though they have made themselves wanton even with Plenty, than you shall do by Mine. And yet I fear I cannot prevent all Disorders: I will do my best; and this I will promise you, No man shall be a loser by Me, if I can help it.

I have sent hither for a Mint: I will melt down all my own Plate, and expose all my Land to Sale or Morgage, that, if it be possible, I may not bring the least pressure upon you.

In the mean time, I have summoned you hither, to invite you to do that for Me and your selves, for the maintenance of your Religion, and the Law of the Land, by which you enjoy all that you have, which other men to against us. Do not suffer so good a Cause to be lost for want of supplying Me with that which will be taken from you by those who pursue Me with this violence. And whilst these ill men sacrifice their Mony, Plate, and utmost Industry to destroy the Commonwealth, be you no less liberal to preserve it. Assure your selves, if it please God to bless Me with success, I shall remem∣ber the Assistance every particular man here gives Me, to his Advantage. However, it will hereafter, how furiously soever the minds of some men are now possessed, be honor and comfort to you, that with some charge and trouble to your selves, you did your part to support your King, and preserve the Kingdom.

I desire Master Sheriff and the rest of the Gentlemen to distribute themselves in that method, that they may best receive the expressions which you shall make of your af∣fections, the which I will have particularly represented to Me.

XLVIII. To the Inhabitants of Oxfordshire, at OXFORD, Nov. 2. MDCXLII.

GEntlemen, Though you see My Army marching from hence, I do not intend to leave you; My Residence shall be so near, that My Power shall have an influence upon this place (of which I will besides take a particular care) for your preservation: Therefore fear not to express your affections to Me with that courage which becomes you.

I know how and by whom the Countrey hath been awed; but I hope no man shall have more power to fright you from your Loyalty than I have to restore you to it; and I shall guess by the evidence of this day at your natural dispositions. In assisting Me you defend your selves; for, believe it, the Sword which is now drawn against Me will destroy you, if I defend you not. I have and will venture My Life for you: 'twill be a shame for you to venture nothing. Whatsoever you shall be willing freely to contribute, I will take kindly of you; and whatsoever you shall lend Me, I will, in the word of a King, see justly repayed to you.

I appoint the Sheriff to receive such Money or Plate as you, Gentlemen, shall be wil∣ling to assist Me with, and to return their names to Me: And you of the Clergy shall repair to Master Vice-Chancellor, who shall do the like. And I expect that you should advance this Service throughout the Countrey, and return your Collections suddenly to Me by the hand of the Sheriff. And I assure you, I shall take especial notice of such who shall be backward in this time of so visible Necessity.

XLIX. To the Lords and Commons assembled at OXFORD, Jan. 22. MDCXLIII, IV.

MY Lords and Gentlemen, When I consider your publick Interests and Concern∣ments in the Happiness and Honor of this Nation, and your particular sufferings in this Rebellion for your affection and Loyalty to Me, I must look upon you as the most competent Considerers and Counsellers how to manage and improve the Condition we are all in: for sure our Condition is so equal, that the same Violence hath oppressed us all.

I have therefore called you together to be witnesses of my Actions, and privy to my Intentions: and certainly if I had the least thought disagreeing with the happiness and security of this Kingdom, I would not advise with such Counsellors. And I doubt not but your Concurrence with Me will so far prevail over the hearts and understandings of this whole Kingdom, who must look upon you as persons naturally and originally trusted by and for them, that it will be above the reach and Malice of those who have hitherto had too great an influence upon the People, to discredit my most intire Acti∣ons and sincere Promises. You will be the best witnesses for the one, and security for the other.

Very many of you can bear me witness, with what unwillingness I suffered my self first to take up these Defensive Arms: indeed with so great, that I was first almost in the power of those who in two set Battels have sufficiently informed the world how ten∣der they have been of the safety of my Person. I foresaw not only the rage and op∣pression which would every day break out upon my Subjects, as the Malice of these ill men increased, and their purposes were detected; but also the great inconveniences my best Subjects would suffer even by my own Army, raised and kept for their pre∣servation and protection. For I was not so ill a Souldier, as not to foresee how im∣possible it was to keep a strict discipline, I being to struggle with so many defects and necessities: and I assure you, the sense I have of their sufferings who deserve well of Me by my Forces, hath been a greater grief to me than any thing to my own particular. My hope was, that either by Success on my part, or Repentance on theirs, God would have put a short end to this great storm. But guilt and despair have made these men more wicked than I imagine they at first intended to be: for instead of removing and recon∣ciling these bloudy Distractions, and restoring Peace to this languishing Countrey, they have invited a Forein power to invade this Kingdom, and that in your names, and chal∣lenge this Invasion from them as a debt to the Commonwealth.

You, My Lords, have, like your selves, as good Patriots, expressed your dissent, and vindicated your selves from that imputation: and I doubt not but you, Gentlemen, will let your Countreys know how far you are from desiring such assistance; and how absolute and peremptory a breach this raising of Arms of my Scotish Subjects is of that Pacification which was so lately and solemnly made by you, and can intend nothing but a conquest of you and your Laws. I shall send you all the advertisements I have of that business which is threatned from Scotland, and what is already acted from thence; and shall desire your speedy advice and assistance, what is to be said or done both with re∣ference to this and that Kingdom.

Our ends being the same, I am sure there will be no other difference in the way than what upon debate and right understanding will be easily adjusted. Let our Religion, in which we are all most nearly concerned, and without care of which we must not look for God's blessing, be vindicated and preserved; let my Honor and Rights, which you find to have an inseparable relation with your own Interests, be vindicated and re∣stored; let your Liberties, Properties, Priviledges, without which I would not be your King, be secured and confirmed; there is nothing you can advise Me to I will not meet you in. And I doubt not but we shall together inform Posterity, how much our trust and confidence in each other is a better expedient for the Peace and preservation of the Kingdom, than Fears and Jealousies.

I shall keep you no longer from consulting together, than in telling you that I have prepared fit places for your Meetings, to which I desire you to repair this night; as∣suring you that I shall be always ready to receive any thing from you, admitting you to Me, or coming to you My self, whensoever you shall desire.

And so God direct you the best way.

L. To the Lord Primate of Ireland and the Congregation at Christ-Church in OXFORD, MDCXLIII.

HIS Majesty being to receive the Sacrament from the hands of the Lord Archbishop of Ar∣magh, rising up from His knees, and beckening to the Archbishop for a short forbearance; said,

My Lord, I espy here many resolved Protestants, who may declare to the world the Resolution I do now make.

I have to the utmost of My power prepared My Soul to become a worthy Receiver: and may I so receive comfort by the Blessed Sacrament, as I do intend the establishment of the true Reformed Protestant Religion as it stood in its beauty in the happy days of Queen Elizabeth, without any connivence at Popery.

I bless God, that in the midst of these publick Distractions I have still liberty to com∣municate: And may this Sacrament be My Damanation, if My Heart do not joyn with My Lips in this Protestation.

LI. To the Lords and Commons, at OXFORD, February 7. MDCXLIII. IV.

MY Lords and Gentlemen, I have hardly thus long forborn to give you thanks for the care and pains you have taken for the publick safety since your coming to∣gether.

And first I thank you for your inclination to Peace; to which as My willingness of complying shewed the constancy of My endeavours in the best way for the publick good; so the Rebels, by their scornfully rejecting your Overtures, as they have done hereto∣fore Mine, have shewed their constancy in their way.

Next, I must thank every one of you for so chearfully applying your selves to the maintenance and recruiting of My Army, which I hope God will so bless, that thereby these enemies of Peace shall have their due reward. And truly, My Lords and Gentle∣men, this alacrity of yours in providing for My Army doth please Me in no considera∣tion so much, as that it is the best way for Peace; for certainly this strange arrogance of refusing to treat with you can proceed from nothing but their contempt of our Forces. But it is your present Honor, and will be more to posterity, that God hath made you instruments to defend your Sovereign, and to preserve your Country; to see that Re∣ligion and Law to flourish which you have rescued from the violence of Rebellion; for which I hope in time to recompense every one of you: but if I shall not, here is one I hope will; in which He shall but perform My Commands: For I have no greater sadness for those who are My ill Subjects, than I have joy and comfort in your affections and fidelities.

And so God prosper your proceedings.

LII. To the Lords and Commons, at their Recess, OXFORD, April 16. MDCXLIV.

MY Lords and Gentlemen, I am now brought to you by your selves; for I should not so soon have parted with you, if you had not desired it: and I believe that the same zeal and affection to Me and your Country which hath brought and stai'd you here, hath caused you to seek this Recess, that so by distributing your selves into your several Countries, we may all the better reap the fruits of our Consultations. Where∣fore in God's name dispose of your selves as you think fit. I heartily thank you for what you have done, and fully approve of what you desire.

I think most, if not all, of you are ingaged in My Service, either in a Civil or Mar∣tial way. To you that have charge in My Armies I recommend the diligent attendance on your Commands, that so by your good example and discipline you may suppress Li∣cence and Disorder, which will discredit, and may destroy the best Cause.

And to you who are ingaged in the Civil Affairs, I must recommend these few par∣ticulars: That you expedite those supplies of Monies which, by your advice, I have sent for, whether by Subscription or Excise; remembring that Monies are the Nerves of War.

Likewise that you use your best diligence for the pressing of men, and incouragement of Voluntiers, by shewing them, that now the only way to preserve themselves from Slavery and their Country from Ruine, is freely to ingage their persons.

But chiefly, and with all possible care, to inform all My Subjects of the barbarity and odiousness of this Rebellion, how solicitous I have been for Peace, and how insolently and scornfully rejected; assuring them, that My Arms are raised and kept only for the defence of their Religion, Laws, and Liberties, which being once secured and vindi∣cated, I shall most chearfully lay them down, I having, God knows, with much un∣willingness taken them up.

Lastly, assure them that these extraordinary ways which necessity hath produced, and most of them not without your consent or advice, for My supply, shall not here∣after be brought in example to their prejudice; and I shall in the mean time do My best to prevent and punish all exorbitancies and disorders.

To conclude, My Lords and Gentlemen, I do now again, yet never enough, thank you for your great and unanimous expressions of your affections to Me, which hath laid an unexpressible obligation upon Me: and be assured that there is no profession which I have made for the defence and maintenance of our Religion, Laws, and Li∣berties, which I will not inviolably observe.

Now God, who hath blessed this Meeting with an unexpected unanimity, which I esteem as one not of his least Blessings, will, I hope, bring us all safe together again the eight day of October next. In the mean time I shall be ready to receive any thing from your Committees that shall be desired.

LIII. To the Inhabitants of Somerset, at KING'S-MORE, July 23. MDCXLIV.

GEntlemen, I have often desired before these Troubles to visit these Western parts, that I might with joy have been an eye-witness of the blessings of Peace which you then enjoyed, and have been welcom'd with the hearty and unanimous affections of My good People here: But the malicious designs of the Authors of this most unnatural War have made those My intentions impossible; yet My coming to you in this posture may sufficiently express what value I set upon these Associated Counties. I am now come to relieve you from the violence of a Rebellious Army sent hither by those that have plunged this whole Kingdom into these desperate Distractions. They have got footing in your Country, and under the false pretences they carry with them (where∣with they have abused too many of My People) are ready to devour you, and bring destruction to your Religion, Property and Liberty. These I am come to defend; and shall refuse no danger that may conduce to your deliverance from this Slavery attempted on you by those men.

All that I ask of you is, that you will not be wanting to your selves, but will heartily joyn with Me in this good work, by contributing your chearful assistance to My Army, and by performing your Duty in bearing Arms with Me in this good Cause, where∣in whoever shall fall carrieth this comfort with him, that he falleth in defence of the true Protestant Religion, his King, his Countrey, and the Law of the Land. And he that will not venture his life for these, I had rather have his room than his company. Upon these grounds I shall lead you on: Follow Me with courage, and the God of Power give us his Blessing.

I shall further remember you of this, that if by your assistance it shall please God to inable Me to reduce this Army now in the bowels of your Country, you will not only thereby free these Associated Counties from those Miseries which threaten you; but it may please God in mercy so to look upon this poor Kingdom, that the fruits of this Vi∣ctory may be a means to restore Peace to us all, that blessed Peace which I have so often and so importunately sought for from them at Westminster, and which they have so scornfully rejected, as if the blood of their fellow-Subjects were their delight. God turn their hearts: neither shall I despair of it, if the success of that Army, the chiefest strength on which they rely, shall fail their expectation; for then it may have such an influence upon them, that I hope they may be prevailed with to give you leave to be happy again; and, which I have so often desired, to have all that is in question between them and Me determined in a full and free convention of Parliament. Then I shall not fear but the united power of this Kingdom will easily free us from that Northern Invasion, which making use of our Divisions, threatneth no less than the Conquest of this whole

Nation. This I assure you, that no success shall make Me less zealously seek for Peace, well knowing whose blood is to be spilt in this unhappy quarrel; but rather I shall more fervently encrease My desires, by how much I may have better grounded hopes to attain what I so earnestly desire.

When I mention Peace, I would be understood to intend that Peace which is built upon such foundations as are most likely to render it firm and stable, wherein God's true Religion may be best secured from the danger of Popery, Sectaries and Innovations; the Crown may possess those just Prerogatives which may inable Me to protect and govern My People according to Law; and the Subject be confirmed in those Rights which they have derived from their Forefathers, and which I have granted to them in Parliament, to which I shall always be ready to add such new Graces as I shall find most to conduce to their Happiness. This is the Peace which I labour for, wherein I may justly expect your best assistance, with your hearts, and hands, and purses.

Neither shall I be more burthensome to you with My Army than of necessity I must for its support (so far I must desire your help, being violently robb'd of all My Re∣venues.) I have and shall use all possible means to suppress the disorders of the Souldiers. The best way to do it is, by taking order that they be not provoked with want of ne∣cessary Provisions. That being done by you, Master Sheriff and the Commissioners of this County, which I most earnestly commend to your care, you shall find Me very strict in such discipline as may best secure you.

This night I hope to have joyned to Me other considerable Forces, which are upon their march towards Me; and tomorrow morning we shall humbly ask God's blessing on us, and begin the Work.

This care I shall further take for you, that as soon as possibly I can, other men to be levied by Impress shall supply the place of such of you, as I shall then give liberty to re∣turn to your Harvest.

I shall conclude with this promise to you, that I shall look upon your chearfulness in this Service as the greatest expression of your Loyalty and Affections that you can make or I receive; which I shall require if it be in My power. If I live not to do it, I hope this young man, My Son, your fellow-Souldier in this Expedition, will; to Whom I shall particularly give it in charge.

LIV. To the Committee of both Houses, at the delivery of the Votes for a Personal Treaty, at CARISBROOK Castle, Aug. 7. MDCXLVIII.

ON Monday the seventh of August, the Commissioners being admitted into the King's pre∣sence, the Votes were first read, and then presented to His Majesty by the Earl of Middle∣sex, who desired His Majestie's speedy Answer, for that their return was limited to ten days.

The King then asked, Whether the ten days were not to be counted from that of the delivery of the Message.

The Earl answering, No, Sir; they are to be counted from the day of our setting forth:

The King replied, I have not then five days allowed Me to consider of My Answer, which I presume you expect in writing; and I have none to help Me, no not so much as a Clerk to transcribe. However I will really contribute My best endeavours to an happy Peace.

After a short pause He added, I would have sent to the Parliament: but I desire them to take notice that My long Silence proceeds not from a dull stupid Laziness, or My be∣ing insensible of My Own or the Kingdoms condition; but from the incapacity that lay on Me by reason of former Votes. But now a way is opened to a Treaty, which I ever apprehended as the only means to a durable Peace, I shall chearfully embrace it, and none shall more speedily run to it than My Self. And for My part, as being more con∣cerned than any one in this Kingdom, nay, should I say more than all, I speak it with∣out vanity, I hope it will be thought no Hyperbolical expression, for I am assured, who∣soever gains, I shall be a loser,—

His Majesty then read the Votes to Himself; after which He said, I like them well, My desires being included in these Votes; for what can I desire more than to treat with Honor, Freedom and Safety, upon the Propositions, and such other things as either I or the two Houses shall offer? Then asking Whether the Commissioners to treat were yet nominated:

The Earl of Middlesex answered, No, Sir.

And the King added, In a Treaty two sorts of things are considerable; some Necessa∣ry, others convenient,—Then breaking off He said, I will go and apply my Self to my Answer, that I may not delay a minute to promote so good a Work. And so withdrew, dismissing the Commissioners.

Thursday, Aug. 10.

THe Commissioners coming to receive His Majestie's Answer, upon their entrance he told them, He was sorry He was limited to so short a time, and had so little helps for dispatch, yet notwithstanding He had prepared His Answer.

Before the reading of it, He added, That the last Message He sent to the Houses was delivered to the Commissioners sealed; and had it been so presented, it would have been better for Him: But now he thought it fit to send this open, because He could not be in a worse condition, being under so close a Restraint, none being suffered to speak a word to Him without suspicion.

Then producing His Answer, He read it aloud in the Presence-Chamber, being full of com∣pany: Which done, he said, That He hoped He had therein endeavoured to give satisfaction to His Parliament, there being nothing in it but but what He conceived was implied in their Votes.

And further added, That there might be some that would oppose this Treaty, as be∣ing gainers by these Wars, and therefore desired the continuance of it. Others might think Him revengeful; but He said, He was so far from seeking Revenge, that if a Straw lay in their way to hurt them, He would stoop and take it up to prevent it. God forgive them, for I do.

Then the Commissioners coming to take their leaves, His Majesty asked them, How they liked His Answer.

They answered, They thought and hoped it would produce a sudden and happy well∣grounded Peace.

LV. To the Commissioners of both Houses, at the first Close of the Treaty at NEWPORT, Nov. 4. MDCXLVIII.

HIS Majesty said, That He hoped they were now sensible that none was more de∣sirous of a good and lasting Peace than Himself; That He had gone very far to give His two Houses satisfaction; That He thought, though the time for the Treaty was ended, yet the Treaty it self was not; That He expected to hear from His two Houses about His own Propositions; and would be ready to make His Concessions binding, by giving them the force of Laws.

He desired, That they would put a good interpretation upon His vehement expressi∣ons in some of His Debates, there being nothing in His intentions but Kindness: and that as they had taken abundance of freedom, and shewed great Abilities in their De∣bates, which have taken His Majesty off from some of His Own Opinions; so He doubted not, had they had power to recede, some of His Reasons would have prevailed with them, as He is confident, had it been with His two Houses, it would have done with them: and therefore beseeches them to take the same freedom with His two Houses, to press them to a compliance with Him in those things His Conscience is not yet satisfied in, which more time may do, His Opinion not being like the Laws of the Medes and Persians, unalterable, or infallible.

He added His very hearty thanks for the pains they had taken to satisfie Him, profes∣sing that He wanted Eloquence to commend their Abilities. He desired them candidly to represent all the Transactions of this Treaty to His two Houses, that they might see, Nothing of His Interest, how near or dear soever, but that wherein His Conscience is unsatisfied, can hinder on His part a happy conclusion of this Treaty.

LVI. To the Lords Commissioners, at their taking leave, NEWPORT, Nov. MDCXLVIII.

MY Lords, You are come to take your leave of Me; and I believe we shall scarce never see each other again: but God's Will be done. I thank God, I have made my Peace with Him, and shall without fear undergo what He shall be pleased to suffer man to do unto Me.

My Lords, you cannot but know that in My Fall and Ruine you see your own, and that also near to you: I pray God send you better Friends than I have found.

I am fully informed of the whole carriage of the Plot against Me and Mine; and nothing so much afflicts Me, as the sense and feeling I have of the Sufferings of my Sub∣jects, and the Miseries that hang over my three Kingdoms, drawn upon them by those who upon pretences of Good violently pursue their own Interests and Ends.

LVII. His MAJESTIE's Speeches to the pretended High Court of Justice; with the History of His Tryal. Jan. MDCXLVIII, IX.

Westminster-Hall, Jan. 20.

ON Saturday the twentieth of January afternoon Serjeant John Bradshaw, President of the pretended Court, with about fifty seven of his fellow-Commissioners, came into West∣minster-Hall, having sixteen men with Partisans, and their Officers, with a Sword and Mace, marching before them; (thus profaning the Name, the Place, and the Ensigns of Justice, in the perpetration of the most enormous and unexampled Villany:) And at the West end of the Hall, prepared for their purpose, Bradshaw seated himself in a Crimson-Velvet Chair in the midst, having a Desk with a Crimson-Velvet Cushion before him, and at his feet a Table covered with a Turkey Carpet, whereon the Sword and Mace were laid; the rest were placed on each side upon Benches hung with Scarlet; and the Partisans divided themselves on each hand be∣fore them.

Being thus sate, and Silence made, the great Gate of the Hall was set open, and all persons promiscuously let in, so that the Hall was presently filled, and Silence again ordered.

Then Colonel Matthew Tomlinson was commanded to bring the Prisoner (their King) into the Court: which he did, within a quarter of an hour, with about twenty Officers with Partisans marching before Him, and others behind. Their Serjeant at Arms with his Mace received Him, and brought Him to the Bar, where a Crimson-Velvet Chair was set. His Majesty, with an unconcerned Look upon his pretended Judges and the People in the Galleries on each side, sate down, without taking notice of their Court; but presently rose up again, and turned about, looking down upon the Guards placed on the left side, and the multitude of Spectators on the right side of the Hall.

After Silence made, the pretended Act for His Trial was read by their Clerk, sitting at the side of the Table where the Sword and Mace lay.

An Act of Parliament of the House of Commons,* 2.1 for Trial of Charles Stuart King of England.

WHereas it is notorious that Charles Stuart, the now King of England, not content with the many incroachments which his Predecessors had made upon the People in their Rights and Freedom, hath had a wicked Design to subvert the Ancient and Fun∣damental Laws and Liberties of this Nation, and in their place to introduce an Arbitrary and Tyrannical Government; and that besides all evil ways to bring his Design to pass, he hath prosecuted it with Fire and Sword, levied and maintained a Civil War in the Land against the Parliament and Kingdom, whereby this Country hath been miserably wasted, the publick Treasure exhausted, Trade decaied, thousands of People murthered, and infinite other mischiefs committed; for all which high Offences the said Charles Stuart might long since have been brought to exemplary and condign Punishment:

Whereas also the Parliament, well hoping that the Restraint and Imprisonment of his Person, after it had pleased God to deliver him into their hands, would have quieted the Distempers of the Kingdom, did forbear to proceed judicially against him; but found by sad experience, that such their Remissenss served only to encourage him and his Com∣plices in the continuance of their evil practices, and in raising new Commotions, Re∣bellions, and Invasions:

For prevention of the like and greater inconveniences, and to the end no Chief Officer or Magistrate may hereafter presume Traiterously and maliciously to imagine or contrive the enslaving or destroying of the English Nation, and to expect impunity, Be it Enacted and Ordained by the Commons in this present Parliament assembled, and it is hereby Enacted and Ordained, that Thomas Lord Fairfax, General, Oliver Cromwell, Lieutenant-General, Commissary General Henry Ireton, Major General Philip Skippon, Sir Hardresse

Waller, Colonel Valentine Walton, Colonel Thomas Harrison, Colonel Edward Whaley, Co∣lonel Thomas Pride, Colonel Isaac Ewer, Colonel Richard Ingoldsby, Sir Henry Mildmay, Sir Thomas Honywood, Thomas Lord Grey, Philip Lord Lisle, William Lord Mounson, Sir John Danvers, Sir Thomas Maleverer, Sir John Bourchier, Sir James Harrington, Sir William Brere∣ton, Robert Wallop Esq William Heveningham Esquire, Isaac Pennington Alderman, Tho∣mas Atkins Alderman, Colonel Rowland Wilson, Sir Peter Wentworth, Colonel Henry Mar∣ten, Colonel William Purefoy, Colonel Godfrey Bosvile, John Trenchard Esquire, Colonel Herbert Morley, Colonel John Berkstead, Colonel Matthew Tomlinson, John Blakeston Esq; Gilbert Millington Esquire, Sir William Constable, Colonel Edward Ludlow, Colonel John Lambert, Colonel John Hutchinson, Sir Arthur Hasilrig, Sir Michael Livesey, Richard Sal∣way Esquire, Humphrey Salway Esquire, Colonel Robert Tichborne, Colonel Owen Roe, Co∣lonel Robert Manwaring, Colonel Robert Lilborn, Colonel Adrian Scroope, Colonel Richard Dean, Colonel John Okey, Colonel Robert Overton, Colonel John Harrison, Colonel John Disborough, Colonel William Goffe, Colonel Robert Duckenfield, Cornelius Holland Esquire, John Carew Esquire, Sir William Armyne, John Jones Esquire, Miles Corbet Esquire, Fran∣cis Allen Esquire, Thomas Lister Esquire, Benjamin Weston Esquire, Peregrine Pelham Esq; John Gourdon Esquire, Serjeant Francis Thorp, John Nutt Esquire, Thomas Chaloner Esq; Colonel Algernon Sidney, John Anlaby Esquire, Colonel John Moore, Rich. Darley Esq; William Say Esquire, John Aldred Esquire, John Fagge Esquire, James Nelthrop Esquire, Sir William Roberts, Colonel Francis Lassels, Colonel Alexander Rigby, Henry Smith Esq; Edmond Wilde Esquire, James Chaloner Esquire, Josias Barners Esquire, Dennis Bond Esq; Humphry Edwards Esquire, Gregory Clement Esquire, John Fry Esquire, Thomas Wogan Esq; Sir Gregory Norton, Serjeant John Bradshaw, Colonel Edmund Harvey, John Dove Esq; Colonel John Venne, John Foulk Alderman, Thomas Scot Esquire, Thomas Andrews Alder∣man, William Cawley Esquire, Abraham Burrell Esquire, Colonel Anthony Stapely, Roger Gratwicke Esquire, John Downes Esquire, Colonel Thomas Horton, Colonel Thomas Ham∣mond, Colonel George Fenwick, Serjeant Robert Nichols, Robert Reynolds Esquire, John Liste Esquire, Nicholas Love Esquire, Vincent Potter, Sir Gilbert Pickering, John Weaver Esquire, John Lenthal Esquire, Sir Edward Baynton, John Corbet Esquire, Thomas Blunt Esquire, Thomas Boone Esquire, Augustine Garland Esquire, Augustine Skinner Esquire, John Dixwel Esquire, Colonel George Fleetwood, Simon Maine Esquire, Colonel James Temple, Colonel Peter Temple, Daniel Blagrave Esquire, Sir Peter Temple, Colonel Thomas Waite, John Brown Esquire, John Lowry Esquire, shall be and are hereby appointed, Com∣missioners and Judges for the hearing, Trying, and Judging of the said Charles Stuart: And the said Commissioners, or any twenty or more of them, shall be, and are hereby Authorized and constituted, an High Court of Justice, to meet at such convenient times and places as by the said Commissioners, or the major part, or twenty or more of them, under their hands and seals shall be appointed, and notified by publick Proclamation in the great Hall or Palace-yard of Westminster; and to adjourn from time to time, and from place to place, as the said High Court or the major part thereof meeting shall hold fit; and to take order for the charging of him, the said Charles Stuart, with the Crimes above mentioned, and for the receiving His Personal Answer thereunto, and for ex∣amination of Witnesses upon Oath (if need be) concerning the same; and thereupon, or in default of such Answer, to proceed to final Sentence, according to Justice and the merit of the Cause, to be executed speedily and impartially.

And the said Court is hereby Authorized and required to chuse and appoint all such Officers, Attendanrs and other circumstances, as they or the major part of them shall in any sort judge necessary or useful for the orderly and good managing of the premisses: and Thomas Lord Fairfax the General, with all Officers of Justice and other well-af∣fected persons, are hereby Authorized and required to be aiding and assisting unto the said Commissioners in the due execution of the Trust hereby committed unto them. Pro∣vided that this Ordinance, and the Authority hereby granted do continue for the space of one Month from the Date of the making hereof, and no longer.

After the reading of this, the several Names of the Commissioners were called over; every one who was present rising up, and answering to his call.

The King having again placed Himself in the Chair with His face towards the Commissioners, Silence was again ordered, and Bradshaw, with Impudence befitting his person and his place, stood up and said,

CHARLES STUART, King of England, The Commons of England assembled in Parliament being deeply sensible of the Calamities that have been brought upon this Na∣tion, which is fixed upon you as the principal Author of it, have resolved to make in∣quisition for Blood; and according to that Debt and Duty they owe to Justice, to God,

the Kingdom, and themselves, and according to the Fundamental Power that rests in themselves, they have resolved to bring you to Trial and Judgment, and for that pur∣pose have constituted this High Court of Justice, before which you are brought.

Then their Solicitor John Cook standing within a Bar on the right hand began;

My Lord, in behalf of the Commons of England, and of all the People thereof, I do accuse CHARLES STUART, here present, of high Treason and high Misdemea∣nures; and I do, in the name of the Commons of England, desire the Charge may be read unto him.

As he was speaking, the King held up his Staffe, and laying it on his shoulders two or three times, bid him,

Hold a little.

But Bradshaw ordered him to go on; and the Charge being delivered to their Clerk, Brad∣shaw told the King,

Sir, the Court Commands the Charge to be read: If you have any thing to say af∣terwards, you may be heard.

Then the Clerk being ordered to read, began.

The Charge of the Commons of England against CHARLES STUART King of England, of High Treason and other High Crimes, exhibited to the High Court of Justice.

THat the said CHARLES STUART being admitted King of England, and there∣in trusted with a limited Power, to govern by and according to the Laws of the Land, and not otherwise, and by his Trust, Oath and Office, being obliged to use the Power committed to him for the good and benefit of the People, and for the preservation of their Rights and Liberties: yet nevertheless, out of a wicked Design to erect and uphold in him∣self an unlimited and Tyrannical Power, to Rule according to his Will, and to overthrow the Rights and Liberties of the People, yea, to take away and make void the Foundations thereof, and of all redress and remedy of Mis-government, which by the Fundamental Constitutions of this Kingdom were reserved on the Peoples behalf in the Right & Power of frequent and successive Parliaments, or National Meetings in Council; he, the said Charles Stuart, for accomplishment of such his Designs, and for the protecting himself and his Adherents in his and their wicked practices to the same Ends, hath traiterously and maliciously levied War against the present Parliament, and the People therein Re∣presented:

Particularly, upon or about the thirtieth day of June, in the year of our Lord one thou∣sand six hundred forty and two, at Beverly in the County of York; and upon or about the thirtieth day of July, in the year aforesaid, in the County of the City of York; and upon or about the twenty fourth day of August, in the same year, at the County of the Town of Nottingham, (when and where he set up his Standard of War;) and upon or about the twenty third day of October, in the same year, at Edge-Hill and Kineton field in the County of Warwick; and upon or about the thirtieth day of November, in the same year, at Brain∣ford in the County of Middlesex; and upon or about the thirtieth day of August, in the year of our Lord one thousand six hundred forty and three, at Cavesham Bridge near Reading in the County of Berks; and upon or about the thirtieth day of October, in the year last mentioned, at or near the City of Gloucester; and upon or about the thirtieth day of No∣vember, in the year last mentioned, at Newbury in the County of Berks; and upon or about the one and thirtieth day of July, in the year of our Lord one thousand six hundred forty and four, at Croperdy Bridge in the County of Oxon; and upon or about the thirtieth day of September, in the year last mentioned, at Bodmin and other places near adjacent in the County of Cornwall; and upon or about the thirtieth day of November, in the year last mentioned, at Newbury aforesaid; and upon or about the eighth day of June, in the year of our Lord one thousand six hundred forty and five, at the Town of Leicester; and also upon the fourteenth day of the same month, in the same year, at Naseby-field in the County of Northampton: At which several times and places, or most of them, and at many other places in this Land, at several other times within the years aforementioned, and in the year of our Lord one thousand six hundred forty and six, he, the said Charles Stuart, hath caused and procured many thousands of the Free People of the Nation to be slain, and by Divisions, Parties and Infurrections within this Land, by Invasions from Forein Parts, endeavoured and procured by him, and by many other evil ways and means, he, the said Charles Stuart, hath not only maintained and carried on the said War both by Land and

Sea, during the years before mentioned, but also hath renewed, or caused to be renewed, the said War against the Parliament and good People of this Nation in this present year one thousand six hundred forty and eight, in the Counties of Kent, Essex, Surry, Sussex, Middlesex, and many other places in England and Wales, and also by Sea; and particu∣larly, he, the said Charles Stuart, hath for that purpose given Commission to his Son, the Prince, and others, whereby, besides multitudes of other persons, many such as were by the Parliament intrusted and imployed for the safety of the Nation, being by him or his Agents corrupted to the betraying of their Trust, and revolting from the Parliament, have had entertainment and Commission for the continuing and renewing of War and Hostility against the said Parliament and People, as aforesaid. By which cruel and un∣natural Wars by him, the said Charles Stuart, levied, continued and renewed, as afore∣said, much innocent blood of the Free People of this Nation hath been spilt, many Fa∣milies have been undone, the publick Treasury wasted and exhausted, Trade obstructed and miserably decayed, vast expence and damage to the Nation incurred, and many parts of the Land spoiled, some of them even to Desolation.

And for further prosecution of his said evil Designs, he, the said Charles Stuart, doth still continue his Commissions to the said Prince, and other Rebels and Revolters, both English and Foreiners, and to the Earl of Ormond, and to the Irish Rebels and Revolters associated with him, from whom further Invasions upon this Land are threatned, upon the procurement and on the behalf of the said Charles Stuart.

All which wicked Designs, Wars, and evil Practices of him, the said Charles Stuart, have been and are carried on for the advancing and upholding of the Personal Interest of Will and Power, and pretended Prerogative to himself and his Family, against the Pub∣lick Interest, Common Right, Liberty, Justice, and Peace of the People of this Na∣tion, by and for whom he was intrusted, as aforesaid.

By all which it appeareth that he, the said Charles Stuart, hath been and is the Occasio∣ner, Author and Contriver of the said unnatural, cruel and bloody Wars, and therein guilty of all the Treasons, Murders, Rapines, Burnings, Spoils, Desolations, Da∣mage and Mischief to this Nation, acted or committed in the said Wars, or occasioned thereby.

And the said John Cook (by Protestation saving on the behalf of the People of England the liberty of exhibiting at any time hereafter any other Charge against the said Charles Stuart, and also of replying to the Answers which the said Charles Stuart shall make to the Premisses or any of them, or any other Charge that shall be so exhibited) doth for the said Treasons and Crimes, on the behalf of the said People of England, impeach the said Charles Stuart as a Tyrant, Traitor, Murtherer, and a publick and implacable Enemy to the Commonwealth of England; and pray that the said Charles Stuart, King of England, may be put to answer all and every the Premisses, that such Proceedings, Examinations, Tryals, Sentence and Judgment may be thereupon had, as shall be agreeable to Justice.

His Majesty with His wonted Patience heard all these Slanders and Reproaches, sitting in the Chair, and looking sometimes on the pretended Court, sometimes up to the Galleries; and rising again turned about to behold the Guards and Spectators: then he sate down with a Majestick and unmoved countenance, and sometimes smiling, especially at those words [Tyrant, Trai∣tor] and the like.

Also the silver head of His Staff happened to fall off; at which He wondred, and seeing none to take it up, He stooped for it Himself.

The Charge being read, Bradshaw began.

Sir, you have now heard your Charge read, containing such matters as appear in it: you find that in the close of it, it is prayed to the Court, in the behalf of the Commons of England, that you answer to your Charge: The Court expects your Answer.

KING.

I would know by what Power I am called hither. I was not long ago in the Isle of Wight; how I came there, is a longer story than I think is fit at this time for Me to speak of: but there I entred into a Treaty with both Houses of Parliament, with as much publick Faith as it's possible to be had of any People in the World. I treated there with a number of Honourable Lords and Gentlemen, and treated honestly and uprightly; I cannot say but they did very nobly with Me: we were upon a conclusion of the Treaty. Now I would know by what Authority (I mean, lawful; there are many unlawful Authorities in the world, Thieves and Robbers by the high-ways; but I would know, by what Authority) I was brought from thence, and carried from place to place, and I know not what. And when I know by what lawful Authority, I shall answer.

Remember, I am your King, your lawful King, and what sins you bring upon your heads, and the Judgment of God upon this Land: Think well upon it, I say, think

well upon it, before you go further from one sin to a greater. Therefore let Me know by what lawful Authority I am seated here, and I shall not be unwilling to answer. In the mean time I shall not betray My Trust: I have a Trust committed to Me by God, by old and lawful Descent; I will not betray it, to answer to a new unlawful Authori∣ty. Therefore resolve Me that, and you shall hear more of Me.

Bradshaw.

If you had been pleased to have observed what was hinted to you by the Court at your first coming hither, you would have known by what Authority: which Authority requires you, in the name of the People of England, of which you are elected King, to answer.

KING.

No, Sir, I deny that.

Bradshaw.

If you acknowledge not the Authority of the Court, they must proceed.

KING.

I do tell them so: England was never an Elective Kingdom, but an Here∣ditary Kingdom for near these thousand years: therefore let Me know by what Autho∣rity I am called hither. I do stand more for the Liberty of My People than any here that come to be My pretended Judges: and therefore let Me know by what lawful Authority I am seated here, and I will answer it; otherwise I will not answer it.

Bradshaw.

Sir, how really you have managed your Trust, is known: your way of Answer is to interrogate the Court, which beseems not you in this Condition. You have been told of it twice or thrice.

KING.

Here is a Gentleman, Lieutenant Colonel Cobbet, ask him if he did not bring Me from the Isle of Wight by force. I do not come here as submitting to the Court.

I will stand as much for the Privilege of the House of Commons, rightly understood, as any man here whatsoever: I see no House of Lords here, that may constitute a Par∣liament; and the King too should have been.

Is this the bringing of the King to His Parliament? Is this the bringing an end to the Treaty in the Publick Faith of the World?

Let Me see a Legal Authority, warranted by the Word of God, the Scriptures, or warranted by the Constitutions of the Kingdom, and I will answer.

Bradshaw.

Sir, you have propounded a Question, and have been answered. Seeing you will not answer, the Court will consider how to proceed. In the mean time, those that brought you hither are to take charge of you back again.

The Court desires to know whether this be all the Answer you will give, or no.

KING.

Sir, I desire that you would give Me and all the World satisfaction in this. Let Me tell you, It is not a slight thing you are about, I am sworn to keep the Peace, by that Duty I owe to God and My Countrey; and I will do it to the last breath of My body: And therefore you shall do well to satisfie, first God, and then the Coun∣try, by what Authority you do it. If you do it by an usurped Authority, you cannot answer it: There is a God in Heaven that will call you, and all that give you Power, to account. Satisfie Me in that, and I will answer; otherwise I betray My Trust, and the Liberties of the People: and therefore think of that, and then I shall be willing. For I do avow, That it is as great a Sin to withstand Lawful Authority, as it is to sub∣mit to a Tyrannical, or any otherways unlawful Authority. And therefore satisfie God, and Me, and all the World in that, and you shall receive My Answer. I am not afraid of the Bill.

Bradshaw,

The Court expects you should give them a final Answer. Their purpose is to adjourn till Monday next: If you do not satisfie your self, though we do tell you our Authority, we are satisfied with our Authority, and it is upon God's Authority and the Kingdoms; and that Peace you speak of will be kept in the doing of Justice, and that's our present Work.

KING.

For Answer, let Me tell you, you have shewn no Lawful Authority to satisfie any reasonable man.

Bradshaw.

That's in your apprehension; we are satisfied that are your Judges.

KING.

'Tis not My apprehension, nor yours neither, that ought to decide it.

Bradshaw.

The Court hath heard you, and you are to be disposed of as they have com∣manded.

So commanding the Guard to take Him away, His Majesty only replied.

Well, Sir.

And at His going down, pointing with His Staff toward the Ax, He said, I do not fear that.

As He went down the stairs, the People in the Hall cried out, God save the King; notwith∣standing some were there set by the Faction to lead the clamour for Justice.

O yes being called, they adjourn.

Westminster-Hall, Monday, Jan. 22. Afternoon.

SVnday being spent in Fasting and Preaching, (according to their manner of making Re∣ligion a pretence and prologue to their Villanies) on Monday afternoon they came again into the Hall, and after Silence commanded, called over their Court, where Seventy persons be∣ing present answered to their Names.

His Majesty being brought in, the People gave a shout.

Command given to the Captain of their Guard to fetch and take into his custody those who make any Disturbance.

Then their Solicitor Cook began,

May it please your Lordship, my Lord President, I did at the last Court, in the be∣half of the Commons of England, exhibite and give into this Court a Charge of High Treason and other high Crimes against the Prisoner at the Bar, whereof I do accuse him in the name of the People of England; and the Charge was read unto him, and his Answer required. My Lord, he was not then pleased to give an Answer; but in stead of answering, did there dispute the Authority of this High Court. My humble motion to this High Court, in behalf of the Kingdom of England, is, That the Prisoner may be directed to make a Positive Answer, either by way of Confession, or Negation; which if he shall refuse to do, that the matter of Charge may be taken pro confesso, and the Court may proceed according to Justice.

Bradshaw.

Sir, you may remember, at the last Court you were told the occasion of your being brought hither, and you heard a Charge read against you, containing a Charge of High Treason and other high Crimes against this Realm of England; you heard like∣wise, that it was prayed in the behalf of the People, that you should give an Answer to that Charge, that thereupon such proceedings might be had as should be agreeable to Justice: you were then pleased to make some scruples concerning the Authority of this Court, and knew not by what Authority you were brought hither: you did divers time propound your Questions, and were as often answer'd, That it was by the Authority of the Commons of England assembled in Parliament, that did think fit to call you to ac∣count for those high and capital Misdemeanours wherewith you were then charged.

Since that, the Court hath taken into consideration what you then said: they are fully satisfied with their own Authority, and they hold it fit you should stand satisfied with it too; and they do require it, that you do give a positive and particular Answer to this Charge that is exhibited against you. They do expect you should either confess, or deny it: If you deny, it is offered, in the behalf of the Kingdom, to be made good against you. Their Authority they do avow to the whole World, that the whole Kingdom are to rest satisfied in, and you are to rest satisfied with it; and therefore you are to lose no more time, but to give a positive Answer thereunto.

KING.

When I was here last, 'tis very true, I made that Question; and if it were only My own particular Case, I would have satisfied My self with the Protesta∣tion I made the last time I was here against the Legality of this Court, and that a King cannot be tried by any superior Jurisdiction on Earth: But it is not My Case alone, it is the Freedom and the Liberty of the People of England; and do you pretend what you will, I stand more for their Liberties. For if Power without Law may make Laws, may alter the Fundamental Laws of the Kingdom, I do not know what Subject he is in England that can be sure of his Life, or any thing that he calls his own. Therefore, when that I came here, I did expect particular Reasons, to know by what Law, what Authority you did proceed against Me here; and therefore I am a little to seek what to say to you in this particular, because the Affirmative is to be proved, the Negative of∣ten is very hard to do. But since I cannot perswade you to do it, I shall tell you My Rea∣sons as short as I can.

My Reasons why in Conscience, and the Duty I owe to God first, and My People next, for the preservation of their Lives, Liberties and Estates; I conceive I cannot answer this, till I be satisfied of the Legality of it.

All proceedings against any man whatsoever—

Bradshaw.

Sir, I must interrupt you; which I would not do, but that what you do is not agreeable to the proceedings of any Court of Justice. You are about to enter into Argument and Dispute concerning the Authority of this Court, before whom you ap∣pear as a Prisoner, and are charged as an high Delinquent: If you take upon you to dispute the Authority of the Court, we may not do it, nor will any Court give way unto it: you are to submit unto it, you are to give a punctual and direct Answer; whe∣ther you will answer your Charge or no, and what you Answer is.

KING.

Sir, by your favour, I do not know the Forms of Law; I do know Law and Reason, though I am no Lawyer profess'd, but I know as much Law as any Gentle∣man in England; and therefore, under favour, I do plead for the Liberties of the People of England more than you do: and therefore if I should impose a belief upon any man without Reasons given for it, it were unreasonable: but I must tell you, that that Rea∣son that I have as thus informed, I cannot yield unto it.

Bradshaw.

Sir, I must interrupt you; you may not be permitted. You speak of Law and Reason, it is fit there should be Law and Reason; and there is both against you.

Sir, the Vote of the Commons of England assembled in Parliament, it is the Reason of the Kingdom; and they are these too that have given that Law according to which you should have ruled and reigned. Sir, you are not to dispute our Authority; you are told it again by the Court: Sir, it will be taken notice of, that you stand in contempt of the Court, and your Contempt will be recorded accordingly.

KING.

I do not know how a King can be a Delinquent: but by any Law that ever I heard of, all men (Delinquents, or what you will) let Me tell you, they may put in Demurrers against any proceeding as Legal; and I do demand that, and demand to be heard with My Reasons: If you deny that, you deny Reason.

Bradshaw,

Sir, you have offered something to the Court; I shall speak something unto you the sense of the Court. Sir, neither you nor any man are permitted to dispute that point; you are concluded, you may not demurr to the Jurisdiction of the Court; if you do, I must let you know that they over-rule your Demurrer: They sit here by the Au∣thority of the Commons of England, and all your Predecessors and you are responsible to them.

KING.

I deny that; shew Me one Precedent.

Bradshaw,

Sir, you ought not to interrupt while the Court is speaking to you. This point is not to be debated by you, neither will the Court permit you to do it. If you offer it by way of Demurrer to the Jurisdiction of the Court, they have considered of their Jurisdiction, they do affirm their own Jurisdiction.

KING.

I say, Sir, by your favour, that the Commons of England was never a Court of Judicature; I would know how they came to be so.

Bradshaw.

Sir, you are not to be permitted to go on in that speech and these discourses.

Then the Clerk of the Court read,

Charles Stuart, King of England, you have been accused on the behalf of the People of England of High Treason and other High Crimes, the Court have determined that you ought to answer the same.

KING.

I will answer the same, so soon as I know by what Authority you do this.

Bradshaw,

If this be all that you will say, then, Gentlemen, you that brought the Prisoner hither, take charge of him back again.

KING.

I do require that I may give in My Reasons why I do not answer, and give Me time for that.

Bradshaw.

Sir, 'tis not for Prisoners to require.

KING.

Prisoners, Sir? I am not an ordinary Prisoner.

Bradshaw.

The Court hath considered of their Jurisdiction, and they have already affirmed their Jurisdiction: If you will not answer, we shall give order to record your Default.

KING.

You never heard My Reasons yet.

Bradshaw,

Sir, your Reasons are not to be heard against the Highest Jurisdiction.

KING.

Shew Me that Jurisdiction where Reason is not to be heard.

Bradshaw.

Sir, we shew it you here, the Commons of England: and the next time you are brought, you will know more of the pleasure of the Court; and, it may be, their final Determination.

KING.

Shew Me where ever the House of Commons was a Court of Judicature of that kind.

Bradshaw.

Serjeant, take away the Prisoner.

KING.

Well, Sir, remember that the King is not suffered to give in His Rea∣sons for the Liberty and Freedom of all His Subjects.

Bradshaw.

Sir, you are not to have liberty to use this language. How great a Friend you have been to the Laws and Liberties of the People, let all England and the World judge.

KING.

Sir, under favour, it was the Liberty, Freedom, and Laws of the Subject that ever I took—defended My self with Arms: I never took up Armes against the People, but for the Laws.

Bradshaw.

The Command of the Court must be obeyed. No Answer will be given to the Charge.

KING.

Well, Sir.

Then Bradshaw ordered the Default to be recorded, and the Contempt of the Court, and that no Answer would be given to the Charge.

The King was guarded forth to Sir Robert Cotton's house.

The Court adjourned to the Painted Chamber on Tuesday at twelve of Clock, and from thence they intend to adjourn to Westminster-Hall, at which time all persons concerned are to give their attendance.

His Majesty not being suffered to deliver His Reasons against the Jurisdiction of their pretended Court by word of mouth, thought fit to leave them in writing to the more impartial judgment of Posterity, as followeth;

HAving already made My Protestations, not only against the Illegality of this pre∣tended Court, but also That no Earthly Power can justly call Me (who am your King) in question as a Delinquent; I would not any more open My mouth upon this occasion, more than to referr My self to what I have spoken, were I in this Case alone concerned. But the Duty I owe to God in the preservation of the true Liberty of My People will not suffer Me at this time to be silent. For, how can any free-born Sub∣ject of England call Life, or any thing he possesseth his own, if Power without Right daily make new, and abrogate the old Fundamental Law of the Land? which I now take to be the present Case. Wherefore when I came hither, I expected that you would have endeavoured to have satisfied Me concerning these grounds which hinder Me to answer to your pretended Impeachment: But since I see that nothing I can say will move you to it, (though Negatives are not so naturally proved as Affirmatives) yet I will shew you the Reason why I am confident you cannot Judge Me, nor indeed the meanest man in England: For I will not, (like you) without shewing a Reason, seek to impose a belief upon My Subjects.

There is no proceeding just against any man,* 3.1 but what is warranted either by God's Laws or the Municipal Laws of the Countrey where he lives. Now I am most con∣fident this dayes proceeding cannot be warranted by God's Law; for, on the contra∣ry, the authority of Obedience unto Kings is clearly warranted and strictly command∣ed both in the Old and new Testament; which if denyed, I am ready instantly to prove. And for the question now in hand, there it is said, That where the Word of a King is, there is Power; and who may say unto him, What dost thou? Eccl. 8. 4. Then for the Law of this Land, I am no less confident that no learned Lawyer will affirm that an Impeachment can lye against the King, they all going in His Name; and one of their Maxims is, That the King can do no wrong. Besides, the Law upon which you ground your proceedings must either be old or new: if old, shew it; if new, tell what Autho∣rity warranted by the Fundamental Laws of the Land hath made it, and when. But how the House of Commons can erect a Court of Judicature, which was never one it self (as is well known to all Lawyers) I leave to God and the world to judge: And it were full as strange, that they should pretend to make Laws without King or Lords House, to any that have heard speak of the Laws of England.

And admitting, but not granting, that the People of England's Commission could grant your pretended Power, I see nothing you can shew for that; for certainly you never asked the question of the tenth man in the Kingdom; and in this way you ma∣nifestly wrong even the poorest Plough-man, if you demand not his free consent: nor can you pretend any colour for this your pretended Commission without the consent at least of the major part of every man in England, of whatsoever quality or condition, which I am sure you never went about to seek; so far are you from having it. Thus you

see that I speak not for My own Right alone, as I am your King, but also for the true Liberty of all My Subjects, which consists not in the power of Government, but in living under such Laws, such a Government, as may give themselves the best assurance of their Lives and propriety of their Goods. Nor in this must or do I forget the Privileges of both Houses of Parliament, which this days Proceedings do not only violate, but likewise occasion the greatest breach of their publick Faith that (I believe) ever was heard of: with which I am far from charging the two Houses; for all pretended Crimes laid against Me bear Date long before this late Treaty at Newport, in which I having concluded as much as in Me lay, and hopefully expecting the Houses agreement thereunto; I was suddenly surprized, and hurried from thence as a Prisoner, upon which account I am against My will brought hither; where since I am come, I cannot but to My power defend the ancient Laws and Liberties of this Kingdom, together with My own just Right. Then, for any thing I can see, the Higher House is totally excluded. And for the House of Commons, it is too well known that the major part of them are detained or deterred from sitting; so as, if I had no other, this were sufficient for Me to protest against the Lawfulness of your pretended Court. Besides all this, the Peace of the King∣dom is not the least in My thoughts; and what hopes of Settlement is there, so long as Power reigns without Rule or Law, changing the whole frame of that Government under which this Kingdom hath flourished for many hundred years? (nor will I say what will fall out, in case this Lawless unjust proceeding against Me do go on.) And be∣lieve it, the Commons of England will not thank you for this Change, for they will re∣member how happy they have been of late years under the Reign of Queen Elizabeth, the King My Father, and My self, until the beginning of these unhappy Troubles, and will have cause to doubt that they shall never be so happy under any new. And by this time it will be too sensibly evident, that the Arms I took up were only to defend the Fundamental Laws of this Kingdom, against those who have supposed My Power hath totally changed the ancient Government.

Thus having shewed you briefly the Reasons why I cannot submit to your pretended Authority, without violating the Trust which I have from God for the Welfare and Liberty of My People; I expect from you either clear Reasons to convince My Judgment, shewing Me that I am in an Error (and then truly I will answer) or that you will withdraw your proceedings.

This I intended to speak in Westminster-Hall on Monday 22. January, but against Reason was hindred to shew My Reasons.

Westminster-Hall, Tuesday, Jan. 23. Afternoon.

O Yes made, Silence commanded. The Court called; Seventy one present.

The King brought in by the Guard, looks with a Majestick Countenance upon his pre∣tended Judges, and sits down.

After the second O yes, and Silence commanded, Cooke began more insolently;

May it please your Lordship, my Lord President, this is now the third time that, by the great grace and favour of this High Court, the Prisoner hath been brought to the Bar, before any Issue joyned in the Cause. My Lord, I did at the first Court exhibite a Charge against him, containing the Highest Treason that ever was wrought upon the Theatre of England, That a King of England, trusted to keep the Law, that had taken an Oath so to do, that had Tribute pay'd him for that end, should be guilty of a wicked Design to subvert and destroy our Laws, and introduce an Arbitrary and Ty∣rannical Government, in the* 3.2 defence of the Parliament and their Authority, set up his Standard for War against the Parliament and People: and I did humbly pray, in the behalf of the People of England, that he might speedily be required to make an An∣swer to the Charge.

But, My Lord, in stead of making any Answer, he did then dispute the Authority of this High Court. Your Lordship was pleased to give him a further day to consider, and to put in his Answer; which day being yesterday, I did humbly move, that he might be re∣quired to give a direct and positive Answer, either by denying or confession of it: But, my Lord, he was then pleased for to demur to the Jurisdiction of the Court, which the Court did then over-rule, and command him to give a direct and positive Answer.

My Lord, besides this great delay of Justice, I shall now humbly move your Lordship for speedy Judgment against him. My Lord, I might press your Lordship upon the whole, that according to the known rules of the Law of the Land, That if a Prisoner shall stand as contumacious in contempt, and shall not put in an issuable Plea, guilty or not guilty of the Charge given against him, whereby he may come to a fair Tryal, that as by an implicite confession it may be taken pro confesso, as it hath been done to those who have deserved more favour than the Prisoner at the Bar has done. But besides, my Lord, I shall humbly press your Lordship upon the whole fact. The House of Commons, the Supreme Authority and Jurisdiction of the Kingdom, they have declared, That it is notorious that the matter of the Charge is true; as it is in truth, my Lord, as clear as Crystal, and as the Sun that shines at noon day: which if your Lordship and the Court be not satisfied in, I have notwithstanding, on the People of England's behalf, several Witnesses to produce. And therefore I do humbly pray, (and yet I must confess it is not so much I, as the innocent blood that hath been shed, the Cry whereof is very great for Justice and Judgment, and therefore I do humbly pray) that speedy Judgment be pronounced against the Prisoner at the Bar.

Bradshaw went on in the same strain,

Sir, you have heard what is moved by the Counsel on the behalf of the Kingdom against you. Sir, you may well remember, and if you do not, the Court cannot forget, what di∣latory dealings the Court hath found at your hands. You were pleased to propound some Questions; you have had your Resolution upon them. You were told over and over again, that the Court did affirm their own Jurisdiction; That it was not for you nor any other man to dispute the Jurisdiction of the supreme and highest Authority of England, from which there is no Appeal, and touching which there must be no dispute: yet you did persist in such carriage, as you gave no manner of Obedience, nor did you acknowledge any authority in them, nor the High Court that constituted this Court of Justice.

Sir, I must let you know from the Court, that they are very sensible of these delays of yours, and that they ought not, being thus authorized by the supreme Court of Eng∣land, to be thus trifled withal, and that they might in Justice, if they pleased, and ac∣cording to the rules of Justice, take advantage of these delays, and proceed to pronounce Judgment against you: yet nevertheless they are pleased to give direction, and on their behalfs I do require you, that you make a positive Answer unto this Charge that is against you. Sir, in plain terms, (for Justice knows no respect of Persons) you are to give your positive and final Answer in plain English, whether you be guilty or not guilty of these Treasons laid to your Charge.

The King, after a little pause, said,

When I was here yesterday, I did desire to speak for the Liberties of the People of England: I was interrupted: I desire to know yet whether I may speak freely or not.

Bradshaw,

Sir, you have had the Resolution of the Court upon the like Question the last day, and you were told, That having such a Charge of so high a nature against you, your work was, that you ought to acknowledge the Jurisdiction of the Court, and to answer to your Charge. Sir, if you answer to your Charge, which the Court gives you leave now to do, though they might have taken the advantage of your Contempt, yet if you be able to answer to your Charge, when you have once answered, you shall be heard at large, make the best Defence you can. But, Sir, I must let you know from the Court, as their Commands, that you are not to be permitted to issue out into any other discourses, till such time as you have given a positive Answer concerning the matter that is charged upon you.

KING.

For the Charge, I value it not a rush. It is the Liberty of the People of England that I stand for. For Me to acknowledge a new Court that I never heard of before, I that am your King, that should be an Example to all the People of England for to uphold Justice, to maintain the old Laws; indeed I do not know how to do it.

You spoke very well the first day that I came here, on Saturday, of the Obligations that I had laid upon Me by God to the maintenance of the Liberties of My People; the same Obligation you spake of I do acknowledge to God, that I owe to Him and to My People to defend, as much as in Me lies, the ancient Laws of the Kingdom: therefore until that I may know that this is not against the Fundamental Laws of the Kingdom, by your favour, I can put in no particular* 3.3 Charge. If you will give Me time, I will shew you My Reasons why I cannot do it, and this—

Here being interrupted, He said,

By your favour, you ought not to interrupt Me.

How I came here, I know not; there's no Law for it, to make your King your Pri∣soner. I was in a Treaty upon the Publick Faith of the Kingdom, that was the known— two Houses of Parliament that was the Representative of the Kingdom; and when that I had almost made an end of the Treaty, then I was hurried away, and brought hither; and therefore—

Bradshaw.

Sir, you must know the pleasure of the Court.

KING.

By your favour, Sir.

Bradshaw.

Nay, Sir, by your favour, you may not be permitted to fall into those dis∣courses: you appear as a Delinquent; you have not acknowledged the Authority of the Court. The Court craves it not of you; but once more they command you to give your positive Answer.

Clerk, Do your Duty.

KING.

Duty, Sir!

The Clerk reads;

Charles Stuart, King of England, you are accused, in the behalf of the Commons of England, of divers high Crimes and Treasons, which Charge hath been read unto you: the Court now requires you to give your positive and final Answer by way of Confes∣sion or Denial of the Charge.

KING.

Sir, I say again to you, so that I might give satisfaction to the People of England of the clearness of My Proceeding, not by way of Answer, not in this way, but to satisfie them that I have done nothing against that Trust that hath been com∣mitted to Me, I would do it: but to acknowledge a new Court against their Privileges, to alter the Fundamental Laws of the Kingdom, Sir, you must excuse Me.

Bradshaw.

Sir, this is the third time that you have publickly disown'd this Court, and put an Affront upon it. How far you have preserv'd the Privileges of the People, your Actions have spoke it; but truly, Sir, mens Intentions ought to be known by their Actions: you have written your meaning in bloody Characters throughout the whole Kingdom.

But, Sir, you understand the pleasure of the Court.

Clerk, record the Default.

And, Gentlemen, you that took charge of the Prisoner, take him back again.

KING.

I will only say this one word more to you; If it were only My own parti∣cular, I would not say any more nor interrupt you.

Bradshaw.

Sir, you have heard the pleasure of the Court, and you are (notwithstan∣ding you will not understand it) to find that you are before a Court of Justice.

Then the King went forth with the Guard.

And Proclamation was made, That all persons which had then appeared, and had further to do at the Court, might depart into the Painted Chamber, to which place the Court did forthwith ad∣journ, and intended to meet in. Westminster-Hall by ten of the Clock next morning.

Cryer.

God bless the Kingdom of England.

Westminster-Hall, Saturday, Jan. 27. Afternoon.

TWo or three dayes being spent in a formal Examination of Witnesses, and preparing them∣selves for the last scene of this Mock-shew, at length, on Saturday the twenty seventh of January, Bradshaw in his Scarlet Robes appeared in the Hall, and Sixty* 3.4 seven others answered to their Names.

As the King came in (in His wonted posture, with his Hat on) and passed toward them, some few Souldiers began a clamour for Justice, Justice, and Execution.

O yes made, and Silence commanded, the Captain of their Guard ordered to take into Custody such as made any disturbance.

His Majesty began;

I desire a word, to be heard a little; and I hope I shall give no occasion of inter∣ruption.

Bradshaw saucily answered,

You may answer in your time; hear the Court first.

His Majesty patiently replied,

If it please you, Sir, I desire to be heard, and I shall not give any occasion of interrup∣tion; and it is only in a word. A sudden Judgment—

Bradshaw.

Sir, you shall be heard in due time; but you are to hear the Court first.

KING.

Sir, I desire it, it will be in order to what I believe the Court will say; and therefore, Sir,—A hasty Judgment is not so soon recalled.

Bradshaw.

Sir, you shall be heard before the Judgment be given; and in the mean time you may forbear.

KING.

Well, Sir, shall I be heard before the Judgment be given?

Bradshaw.

Gentlemen, it is well known to all or most of you here present, that the Prisoner at the Bar hath been several times convented and brought before this Court, to make Answer to a Charge of Treason and other high Crimes exhibited against him in the name of the People of England.* 3.5 To which Charge being required to answer, he hath been so far from obeying the Commands of the Court, by submitting to their Justice, as he began to take upon him to offer Reasoning and Debate unto the Authority of the Court, and to the highest Court, that appointed them to try and judge him: But be∣ing over-ruled in that, and required to make his Answer, he was still pleased to continue Contumacious, and to refuse to submit to Answer.

Hereupon the Court, that they might not be wanting to themselves nor the Trust reposed in them, nor that any man's wilfulness prevent Justice, they have thought fit to take the matter into their consideration; they have considered of the Charge, they have considered of the Contumacy, and of that Confession which in Law doth arise up∣on that Contumacy; they have likewise considered of the Notoriety of the Fact charged upon this Prisoner: and, upon the whole matter, they are resolved and are agreed upon a Sentence to be pronounced against this Prisoner. But in respect he doth desire to be heard before the Sentence be read and pronounced, the Court hath resolved that they will hear him.

Yet, Sir, thus much I must tell you beforehand, which you have been minded of at other Courts, That if that which you have to say be to offer any debate concerning the Jurisdiction, you are not to be heard in it. You have offered it formerly, and you have struck at the Root, that is, the Power and Supreme Authority of the Commons of Eng∣land; which this Court will not admit a debate of, and which indeed it is an irrational thing in them to do, being a Court that acts upon Authority derived from them. But, Sir, if you have any thing to say in defence of your self concerning the matter charged, the Court hath given me in command to let you know they will hear you.

KING.

Since I see that you will not hear any thing of Debate concerning that which I confess I though most material for the Peace of the Kingdom and for the Liberty of the Subject, I shall wave it, I shall speak nothing to it. But only I must tell you, that this many-a day all things have been taken away from Me, but that that I call dearer to Me than My Life, which is, My Conscience and My Honor: And if I had a respect to My Life more than the Peace of the Kingdom and the Liberty of the Subject, cer∣tainly I should have made a particular Defence for My Self; for by that at leastwise I might have delayed an ugly Sentence, which I believe will pass upon Me. Therefore certainly, Sir, as a man that hath some understanding, some knowledge of the World, if that My true Zeal to My Countrey had not overborn the care that I have for My own Preservation, I should have gone another way to work than that I have done. Now, Sir, I conceive that an hasty Sentence once past may sooner be repented of than recal∣led: and truly the self-same desire that I have for the Peace of the Kingdom and the Li∣berty of the Subject, more than my own particular Ends, makes Me now at last desire, That I having something to say that concerns both, I desire, before Sentence be given, that I may be heard in the Painted Chamber before the Lords and Commons. This De∣lay cannot be prejudicial unto you, whatsoever I say. If that I say no Reason, those that hear Me must be Judges: I cannot be Judge of that that I * have. If it be Reason, and really for the welfare of the Kingdom and the Liberty of the Subject, I am sure on it, it is very well worth the hearing. Therefore I do conjure you, as you love that that you pretend, (I hope it is real) the Liberty of the Subject, the Peace of the Kingdom, that you will grant me this hearing before any Sentence be past. I only desire this, That you will take this into your Consideration: it may be you have not heard of it before∣hand. If you will, I will retire, and you may think of it: but if I cannot get this Li∣berty, I do protest, That these fair shews of Liberty and Peace are pure shews, and that you will not hear your King.

Bradshaw.

Sir, you have now spoken.

KING.

Yes, Sir.

Bradshaw.

And this that you have said is a further declining of the Jurisdiction of this Court, which was the thing wherein you were limited before.

KING.

Pray excuse Me, Sir, for My interruption, because you mistake Me. It is not a declining of it; you do judge Me before you hear Me speak. I say it will not, I do not decline it; though I cannot acknowledge the Jurisdiction of the Court, yet, Sir, in this, give Me leave to say, I would do it, though I did not acknowledge it; in this, I do protest, it is not the declining of it, since, I say, if that I do say any thing but that that is for the Peace of the Kingdom and the Liberty of the Subject, then the shame is Mine. Now I desire that you will take this into your Consideration; if you will, I will withdraw.

Bradshaw.

Sir, this is not altogether new that you have moved unto us, not altoge∣ther new to us, though the first time in person you have offered it to the Court. Sir, you say you do not decline the Jurisdiction of the Court.

KING.

Not in this that I have said.

Bradshaw.

I understand you well, Sir; but nevertheless, that which you have offered seems to be contrary to that saying of yours; for the Court are ready to give a Sentence. It is not as you say, That they will not hear their King; for they have been ready to hear you, they have patiently waited your pleasure for three Courts together, to hear what you would say to the Peoples Charge against you: to which you have not vouchsafed to give any Answer at all. Sir, this tends to a further Delay. Truly, Sir, such Delays as these neither may the Kingdom nor Justice well bear. You have had three several days to have offered in this kind what you would have pleased. This Court is founded upon that Authority of the Commons of England, in whom rests the Supreme Jurisdiction. That which you now tender is to have another Jurisdiction, and a co-ordinate Juris∣diction: I know very well you express your self, Sir, That notwithstanding that you would offer to the Lords and Commons in the Painted Chamber, yet nevertheless you would proceed on here; I did hear you say so. But, Sir, that you would offer there, what∣ever it is, must needs be in delay of the Justice here; so as if this Court be resolved and prepared for the Sentence, this that you offer they are not bound to grant. But, Sir, ac∣cording to that you seem to desire, and because you shall know the further pleasure of the Court upon that which you have moved, the Court will withdraw for a time.

This he did to prevent the disturbance of their Scene by one of their own Members Colonel John Downes, who could not stifle the reluctance of his Conscience, when he saw his Majesty press so earnestly for a short hearing, but declaring himself unsatisfied, forced them to yield to the King's Request.

KING.

Shall I withdraw?

Bradshaw.

Sir, You shall know the pleasure of the Court presently.

The Court withdraws for half an hour into the Court of Wards.

Serjeant at Arms.

The Court gives command that the Prisoner be withdrawn; and they give order for his return again.

Then withdrawing into the Chamber of the Court of Wards, their business was not to consider of his Majesties desire, but to Chide Downes, and with reproaches and threats to harden him to go through the remainder of their Villany with them.

Which done, they return; and being sate, Bradshaw commanded,

Serjeant at Armes, send for your Prisoner.

Who being come, Bradshaw proceeded:

Sir, you were pleased to make a motion here to the Court, to offer a desire of yours touching the propounding of somewhat to the Lords and Commons in the Painted Chamber for the Peace of the Kingdom. Sir, you did in effect receive an Answer before the Court adjourned: truly, Sir, their withdrawing and adjournment was pro forma tan∣tùm, for it did not seem to them that there was any difficulty in the thing. They have considered of what you have moved, and have considered of their own Authority, which is founded, as hath been often said, upon the supreme Authority of the Commons of England assembled in Parliament: the Court acts accordingly to their Commission. Sir, the return I have to you from the Court is this, That they have been too much delayed by you already, and this that you now offer hath occasioned some little further Delay, and they are Judges appointed by the highest Authority, and Judges are no more to delay than they are to deny Justice: they are good words in the Great old Charter of Eng∣land, Nulli negabimus, nulli vendemus, & nulli deferemus Justitiam; there must be no de∣lay. But the truth is, Sir, and so every man here observes it, that you have much delayed them in your Contempt and Default, for which they might long since have proceeded to Judgment against you; and notwithstanding what you have offered, they are re∣solved to proceed to Sentence and to Judgment, and that is their unanimous Resolution.

KING.

Sir, I know it is in vain for Me to dispute; I am no Sceptick for to deny the Power that you have; I know that you have Power enough. Sir, I must confess, I think it would have been for the Kingdoms Peace, if you would have taken the pains for to have shewn the Lawfulness of your Power.

For this Delay that I have desired, I confess it is a Delay, but it is a Delay very im∣portant for the Peace of the Kingdom; for it is not My Person that I look at alone, it is the Kingdoms Welfare, and the Kingdoms Peace.

It is an old Sentence, That we should think on long before we resolve of great matters suddenly. Therefore, Sir, I do say again, that I do put at your doors all the inconvenien∣cy of a hasty Sentence. I confess I have been here now, I think, this Week, this day eight dayes was the day I came here first; but a little Delay of a day or two further may give Peace, whereas a hasty Judgment may bring on that Trouble and perpetual In∣conveniency to the Kingdom, that the Child that is unborn may repent it. And there∣fore again, out of the Duty I owe to God and to My Country, I do desire that I may be heard by the Lords and Commons in the Painted Chamber, or any other Chamber that you will appoint Me.

Bradshaw.

You have been already answered to what you even now moved, being the same you moved before, since the Resolution and the Judgment of the Court in it: And the Court now requires to know whether you have any more to say for your self than you have said, before they proceed to Sentence.

KING.

I say this, Sir, That if you hear Me, if you will give Me but this Delay, I doubt not but I shall give some satisfaction to you all here, and to My People after that; and therefore I do require you, as you will answer it at the dreadful Day of Judgment, that you will consider it once again.

Bradshaw.

Sir, I have received direction from the Court.

KING.

Well, Sir.

Bradshaw.

If this must be re-inforced, or any thing of this nature, your Answer must be the same; and they will proceed to Sentence, if you have nothing more to say.

KING.

I have nothing more to say; but I shall desire that this may be entred what I have said.

Bradshaw.

The Court then, Sir, hath something to say unto you, which although I know it will be very unacceptable, yet notwithstanding they are willing and are re∣solved to discharge their Duty.

Then Bradshaw went on in a long Harangue, endeavouring to justifie their proceedings, misapplying Law and History, and raking up and wresting whatsoever he thought fit for his purpose, alleging the Examples of former Treasons and Rebellions, both at home and abroad, as authentick proofs; and concluding that the King was a Tyrant, Traitor, Murtherer, and publick Enemy to the Commonwealth of England.

His Majesty having with His wonted Patience heard all these Reproaches, answered,

I would desire only one word before you give Sentence, and that is, That you would hear Me concerning those great Imputations that you have laid to My charge.

Bradshaw.

Sir, you must give me now leave to go on, for I am not far from your Sen∣tence, and your time is now past.

KING.

But I shall desire you will hear Me a few words to you; for, truly what∣ever Sentence you will, put upon Me, in respect of those heavy Imputations that I see by your speech you have put upon Me. Sir, it is very true that—

Bradshaw.

Sir, I must put you in mind: truly, Sir, I would not willingly, at this time especially, interrupt you in any thing you have to say that is proper for us to ad∣mit of; but, Sir, you have not owned us as a Court, and you look upon as a sort of people met together, and we know what Language we receive from your Party.

KING.

I know nothing of that.

Bradshaw.

You disavow us as a Court, and therefore for you to address your self to us, not to acknowledge us as a Court to judge of what you say, it is not to be permitted. And the truth is, all along from the first time you were pleased to disavow and disown us, the Court needed not to have heard you one word; for unless they be acknow∣ledged a Court, and engaged, it is not proper for you to speak. Sir, we have given you too much Liberty already, and admitted of too much Delay, and we may not admit of any further. Were it proper for us to do, we should hear you freely, and we should not have declined to have heard you at large, what you could have said or proved on your behalf, whether for totally excusing, or for in part excusing, those great and hai∣nous Charges that in whole or in part are laid upon you. But, Sir, I shall trouble you no longer; your Sins are of so large a dimension, that if you do but seriously think of them, they will drive you to a sad consideration, and they may improve in you a sad and serious repentance. And that the Court doth heartily wish, that you may be so penitent for what you have done amiss, that God may have mercy at least-wise upon your better part. Truly Sir, for the other, it is our parts and duties to do that that the Law prescribes. We are not here Jus dare, but Jus dicere: we cannot be unmind∣ful of what the Scripture tells us, For to acquit the guilty is of equal abomination as to con∣demn the innocent; we may not acquit the guilty. What sentence the Law affirms to a Traitor, Tyrant, a Murtherer, and a publick enemy to the Countrey, that Sentence you are now to hear read unto you, and that is the Sentence of the Court.

Make an O yes, and command Silence while the Sentence is read.

Which done, their Clerk, Broughton, read the Sentence, drawn up in Parchment.

WHereas the Commons of England in Parliament had appointed them an High Court of Justice for the Trial of Charles Stuart King of England, before whom he had been three times convented, and at the first time a Charge of High Treason, and other Crimes and Misdemeanours, was read in the behalf of the King∣dom of England.

[Here the Charge was repeated.]

Which Charge being read unto him as aforesaid, he, the said Charles Stuart, was re∣quired to give his Answer; but he refused so to do:

[Expressing the several passages of His refusing in the former Proceedings:]

For all which Treasons and Crimes this Court doth adjudge, That he, the said Charles Stuart, as a Tyrant, Traitor, Murtherer, and a publick Enemy, shall be put to death by the severing of his Head from his Body.

Which being read, Bradshaw added,

This Sentence now read and published, it is the Act, Sentence, Judgment and Re∣solution of the whole Court.

To which they all expressed their Assent by standing up, as was before agreed and ordered.

His Majesty then said,

Will you hear Me a word, Sir?

Bradshaw.

Sir, you are not to be heard after the Sentence.

KING.

No, Sir?

Bradshaw.

No, Sir; by your favour, Sir.

Guard, withdraw your Prisoner.

KING.

I may speak after Sentence, by your favour, Sir, I may speak after Sen∣tence, ever.

By your favour, hold: The Sentence, Sir,—I say, Sir, I do—

I am not suffered to speak; expect what Justice other People will have.

The Persons that sate when Judgment was given upon the Life of their KING, were these.

• Serjeant John Bradshaw.
• Lieutenant General Cromwell.
• Commissary General Ireton.
• John Lisle, Esquire.
• William Say, Esquire.
• Sir Hardresse Waller.
• Colonel Valentine Walton.
• Colonel Thomas Harrison.
• Colonel Edward Whaley.
• Colonel Thomas Pride.
• Colonel Isaac Ewer.
• Thomas Lord Gray of Groby.
• Sir John Danvers, Knight.
• Sir Thomas Maleverer, Baronet.
• Sir John Bourchier, Knight.
• William Heveningham, Esquire.
• Isaac Ponnington, Alderman.
• Colonel Henry Marten.
• Colonel William Poresoy.
• Colonel John Berksted.
• John Blakeston, Esquire.
• Gilbert Millington.
• Sir William Constable, Baronet.
• Colonel Edmund Ludlow.
• Colonel John Hutchinson.
• Sir Michael Livesey, Baronet.
• Colonel Robert Tichburne.
• Colonel Owen Rowe.
• Colonel Robert Lilburne.
• Colonel Adrian Scroope.
• Colonel Richard Deane.
• Colonel John Okey.
• Colonel John Hewson.
• Colonel William Goffe.
• Cornelius Holland, Esquire.
• John Carew, Esquire.
• Colonel John Jones.
• Miles Corbet, Esquire.
• Francis Allen, Esquire.
• Peregrine Pelham, Esquire.
• Colonel John More.
• Colonel John Alured.
• Colonel Henry Smith.
• Humphrey Edwards, Esquire.
• Gregory Clement, Esquire.
• Thomas Wogan, Esquire.
• Sir Gregory Norton, Baronet.
• Colonel Edmund Harvey.
• Colonel John Venne.
• Thomas Scot. Esquire.
• Thomas Andrewes, Alderman.
• William Cawley, Esquire.
• Antony Stapely, Esquire.
• Colonel John Downes.
• Colonel Thomas Horton.
• Colonel Thomas Hammond.
• Nicholas Love, Esquire.
• Vincent Potter.
• Augustine Garland, Esquire.
• John Dixwell, Esquire.
• Colonel George Fleetwood.
• Simon Mayne, Esquire.
• Colonel James Temple.
• Peter Temple.
• Daniel Blagrave, Esquire.
• Colonel Thomas Waite.

Counsellors Assistant to draw up the Charge,

• Doctor Isaac Dorislaw.
• —Aske.
• William Steele, who excused himself by sickness.
• John Cooke, Solicitor.
• Dendy Serjeant, Mace-bearer.
• Broughton and Phelps, Clerk••.

His Majesty being taken away by the Guard, as He passed down the Stairs the insolent Souldiers scoffed at Him, casting the smoak of their Tobacco (a thing very distastful to Him) in His Face, and throwing their Pipes in his way: And one more insolent than the rest, spitting in His Face, His Majesty, according to His wonted Heroick Patience took no more notice of so strange and barbarous an indignity, than to wipe it off with His Hand∣kerchief.

As He passed along, hearing the rabble of Souldiers crying out Justice, Justice, He said,

Poor souls, for a piece of Money they would do so for their commanders.

Being brought first to Sir Robert Cotton's, and thence to White Hall, the Souldiers continued their brutish carriage toward Him, abusing all that seemed to shew any respect or even pity to Him; not suffering Him to rest in his Chamber, but thrusting in, and smoaking their Tobacco, and disturbing His Privaty.

But through all these Trials (unusual to Princes) He passed with such a calm and even temper, that He let fall nothing unbeseeming His former Majesty and Magnanimity.

In the Evening a Member of the Army acquainted the Committee with His Majestie's desire, That seeing they had passed a Sentence of Death upon Him, and His time might be nigh, He might see His Children, and Doctor Juxon Bishop of London might be admitted to assist Him in His private Devotions, and receiving the Sacrament.

Both which at length were granted.

And the next day, being Sunday, He was attended by the Guard to Saint James's, where the Bishop preached before Him upon these words, In the day when God shall judge the secrets of all men by Jesus Christ according to my Gospel.

LVIII. His MAJESTIE's Speech to the Lady ELIZABETH, and HENRY Duke of GLOUCESTER. Jan. 29. MDCXL VIII. IX.

Of His MAJESTIE's discourse to His Children, there being several Relations, it is thought fit to represent the several Copies.

I. A true Relation of the King's Speech to the Lady ELIZABETH and the Duke of GLOUCESTER the day before His Death.

HIS Children being come to meet Him, He first gave His Blessing to the Lady Elizabeth, and bade Her Remember to ••ell Her Brother James, whenever She should see Him, that it was his Fathers last ••••sire, that he should no more look upon Charles as his Eldest Brother only, but be obedient unto Him as his Sovereign: And that they should love one another, and forgive their Fathers Enemies. Then said the King to Her, Sweet Heart, you will forget this. No, said She, I shall never forget it whilst I live: and pouring forth abundance of tears, promised Him to write down the particulars.

Then the King taking the Duke of Gloucester upon His Knee, said, Sweet Heart, now they will cut off thy Fathers Head (upon which words the Child looked very stedfastly on Him) Mark, Child, what I say; They will cut off My Head, and perhaps make thee a King: But mark what I say, You must not be a King so long as your Brothers CHARLES and JAMES do live; for they will cut off your Brothers Heads (when they can catch them) and cut off thy Head too at last: and therefore I charge you do not be made a King by them. At which the Child sighing, said, I will be torn in pieces first. Which falling so unexpectedly from one so young, it made the King rejoyce exceedingly.

II. Another Relation from the Lady ELIZABETHS own Hand.

WHat the King said to me the 29. of Jan. 1648. being the last time I had the Hap∣piness to see Him. He told me, He was glad I was come; and although He had not time to say much, yet somewhat He had to say to Me which He had not to ano∣ther, or leave in writing, because He feared their Cruelty was such as that they would not have permitted Him to write to me. He wished me not to grieve and torment my self for Him, for that would be a glorious Death that He should die, it being for the Laws and Liberties of this Land, and for maintaining the true Protestant Religion. He bid me read Bishop Andrewes Sermons, Hooker's Ecclesiastical Polity, and Bishop Laud's Book against Fisher, which would ground me against Popery. He told me, He had forgiven all his Enemies, and hoped God would forgive them also; and com∣manded us, and all the rest of my Brothers and Sisters, to forgive them. He bid me tell my Mother, that His thoughts had never strayed from Her, and that His Love should be the same to the last. Withal He commanded me and my Brother to be obedient to Her, and bid me send His Blessing to the rest of my Brothers and Sisters, with com∣mendation to all His Friends. So after He had given me his Blessing, I took my leave.

Further, He commanded us all to forgive those People, but never to trust them, for they had been most false to Him, and to those that gave them Power; and He feared also to their own Souls: And desired me not to grieve for Him, for He should die a Martyr; and that He doubted not but the Lord would settle His Throne upon His Son, and that we should be all happier than we could have expected to have been if he had lived. With many other things which at present I cannot remember.

ELIZABETH.

III. Another Relation from the Lady ELIZABETH.

THE King said to the Duke of Glocester, that He would say nothing to him but what was for the good of his Soul. He told him that He heard the Army intend∣ed to make him King; but it was a thing not for him to take upon him, if he re∣garded the welfare of his Soul, for he had two Brothers before him: and therefore commanded him upon his Blessing never to accept of it, unless it redounded law∣fully upon him: and commanded him to fear the Lord, and he would provide for him.

LIX. His MAJESTIE's Speech upon the Scaffold before White∣Hall; with the Manner of His Martyrdom, Jan. 30. MDCXLVIII. IX.

IN pursuance of the bloody Sentence passed upon His Sacred Majesty, the same Sixty four persons met the same day in the Painted Chamber, and appointed Waller, [Harrison,] Ireton, Deane and Okey, a Committee to consider of the time and place for the Execution.

Painted Chamber, Lunae, Jan. 29. 1648.

Forty eight of the Commissioners met, and

Upon Report made from the Committee for considering of the Time and Place of the Executing of the Judgment against the King, That the said Committee have Re∣solved, That the open Street before White-Hall is a fit place; and that the said Com∣mittee conceive it fit, That the King be there executed to morrow, the King having already notice thereof:

The Court approved thereof, and ordered a Warrant to be drawn for that purpose; which Warrant was accordingly drawn and agreed unto, and ordered to be ingrossed, which was done, and Signed and Sealed accordingly, as followeth.

At the High Court of Justice for the Trying and Judging of CHARLES STUART King of England, Januar. 29. 1648.

WHereas Charles Stuart, King of England, is, and standeth Convicted, Attain∣ted, and Condemned of High Treason and other high Crimes, and Sentence upon Saturday last was pronounced against him by this Court, to be put to death by the severing of his Head from his Body; of which Sentence Execution yet remains to be done: These are therefore to will and require you to see the said Sentence executed in the open Street before White-hall upon the morrow, being the 30. day of this instant Month of January, between the hours of Ten in the Morning and Five in the After∣noon of the same day, with full effect: And so doing this shall be your sufficient War∣rant. And these are to require all Officers and Souldiers, and other the good People of this Nation of England, to be assisting unto you in this Service.

To Colonel Francis Hacker, Colonel Huncks, and Lieutenant Colonel Phayre, and to every of them.

Given under our hands and seals.

• John Bradshaw.
• Thomas Gray.
• Ol. Cromwel.
• Edw. Whaley.
• Mi. Livesey.
• John Okey.
• Jo. Danvers.
• Jo. Bourchier.
• Rich. Ingoldsby.
• W. Cawley.
• J. Barkestead.
• Isaac Ewer.
• J. Dixwell.
• Val. Wauton.
• Symon Meyne.
• Tho. Horton.
• H. Ireton.
• Tho. Maleverer.
• John Blakeston.
• Jo. Hutchinson.
• Will. Goffe.
• Tho. Pride.
• Pe. Temple.
• Tho. Harrison.
• Hen. Smith.
• Per. Pelham.
• Ri. Dean.
• Rob. Tichburne.
• Hum. Edwards.
• Dan. Blagrave.
• Owen Rowe.
• William Purefoy.
• Ad. Scroope.
• James Temple.
• A. Garland.
• Edm. Ludlow.
• Hen. Marten.
• Vincent Potter.
• W. Constable.
• Jo. Jones.
• Jo. Moore:
• Ha. Waller.
• Gilb. Millington.
• G. Fleetwood.
• J. Alured.
• Rob. Lilburne.
• W. Saye.
• Anth. Stapeley.
• Gre. Norton.
• Tho. Chaloner.
• Tho. Wogan.
• Jo. Venne.
• Greg. Clement.
• Jo. Downes.
• Tho. Waite.
• Tho. Scott.
• Jo. Carew.
• Miles Corbet.

Tuesday the thirtieth of January, the Fatal Day being come, the Commissioners met, and ordered four or five of their Ministers to attend upon the King at S. James's, where they then kept Him: but his Majesty well knowing what miserable comforters they were like to prove, refused to have conference with them.

That Morning, before his Majesty was brought thence, the Bishop of London (who with much ado was permitted to wait upon Him a day or two before, and to assist Him in that sad in∣stant) read Divine Service in his presence, in which the 27^th of Saint Matthew (the Hi∣story of our Saviour's Crucifixion) proved the second Lesson. The King supposing it to have been selected on purpose, thank'd him afterwards for his seasonable choice. But the Bishop modestly declining that undue thanks, told him that it was the Lesson appointed by the Calendar

for that day. He also then and there received of the Bishop the holy Sacrament, and performed all His Devotions in preparation to His Passion.

Which ended, about ten of the clock His Majesty was brought from Saint James's to White-Hall by a Regiment of Foot, with Colours flying and Drums beating, part marching before and part behind, with a private guard of Partisans about Him, the Bishop on the the one hand, and Colonel Tomlinson (who had the charge of Him) on the other, both bare∣headed. His Majesty walking very fast, and bidding them go faster, added,

That He now went before them to strive for an Heavenly Crown with less soli∣citude than He had often incouraged His Souldiers to fight for an Earthly Diadem.

Being come to the end of the Park, He went up the Stairs leading to the long Gallery in White∣Hall, and so into the Cabinet Chamber, where He used formerly to lodge. There, finding an unexpected delay in being brought upon the Scaffold, which they had not as then fitted, He past the time, at convenient distances, in Prayer.

About twelve of the clock, His Majesty refusing to dine, only eat a bit of Bread and drank a Glass of Claret: and about an hour after Colonel Hacker with other Officers and Souldiers brought Him, with the Bishop and Colonel Tomlinson, through the Banqueting-house, to the Scaffold, to which the passage was made through a Window. Divers Companies of Foot and Troups of Horse were placed on each side of the Street, which hindred the approach of the very numerous Spectators, and the King from speaking what He had premeditated and prepared for them to hear. Whereupon His Majesty finding Himself disappointed, omitted much of His in∣tended matter, and for what He meant to speak directed Himself chiefly to Colonel Tomlinson.

I Shall be very little heard of any body here; I shall therefore speak a word unto you here.

Indeed I could hold My peace very well, if I did not think that holding My peace would make some men think that I did submit to the Guilt as well as to the Punish∣ment: But I think it is My Duty, to God first, and to My Country, for to clear My self both as an honest Man, and a good King, and a good Christian.

I shall begin first with My Innocency. In troth, I think it not very needful for Me to insist long upon this, for all the World knows that I never did begin a War first with the two Houses of Parliament; and I call God to witness, to whom I must short∣ly make an account, that I never did intend for to incroach upon their Privileges: they began upon Me; it is the Militia they began upon: they confest that the Militia was Mine; but they thought it fit for to have it from Me. And to be short, if any body will look to the Dates of Commissions, of their Commissions and Mine, and likewise to the Declarations, they will see clearly that they began these unhappy Troubles, not I. So that as to the guilt of these enormous Crimes that are laid against Me, I hope in God that God will clear Me of it. I will not, (I am in Charity) God forbid that I should lay it on the two Houses of Parliament; there is no necessity of either: I hope they are free of this Guilt. For I do believe that ill Instruments be∣tween them and Me have been the chief cause of all this blood-shed. So that by way of speaking, as I find my self clear of this, I hope, and pray God, that they may too. Yet for all this, God forbid that I should be so ill a Christian as not to say that God's Judgments are just upon Me; many times he does pay Justice by an unjust Sentence; that is ordinary.* 4.1 I will only say this, That an unjust Sentence that I suffered for to take effect is punished now by an unjust Sentence upon Me. That is—So far I have said, to shew you that I am an innocent man.

Now for to shew you that I am a good Christian;* 4.2 I hope there is a good man that will bear Me witness that I have forgiven all the World, and even those in particular that have been the chief causers of My Death: Who they are, God knows, I do not desire to know; I pray God forgive them. But this is not all. My Charity must go further; I wish that they may repent; for indeed they have committed a great Sin in that particular: I pray God, with Saint Stephen, that this be not laid to their charge. Nay, not only so, but that they may take the right way to the Peace of the Kingdom: For My Charity commands me not only to forgive particular men,* 4.3 but My Charity commands Me to endeavour to the last gasp the Peace of the Kingdom. So, Sirs, I do wish with all My Soul, (and I do hope there is some here will carry it further) that they may endeavour the Peace of the Kingdom.

Now, Sirs, I must shew you both how you are out of the way, and will put you in a way.

First, you are out of the way. For certainly all the way you ever have had yet, as I could find by any thing, is in the way of Conquest. Certainly this is an ill way: For Conquest, Sir, in My opinion, is never just, except there be a good just Cause, either for matter of Wrong, or just Title; and then if you go beyond it, the first quar∣rel that you have to it, that makes it unjust at the end that was just at the first. But if it be only matter of Conquest, then it is a great Robbery, as a Pirate said to Alexander, that He was the great Robber, he was but a petty Robber. And so, Sir, I do think the way that you are in is much out of the way.

Now, Sir, for to put you in the way; believe it, you will never do right, nor God will never prosper you, until you give God his Due, the King his Due, (that is, My Successors) and the People their Due: I am as much for them as any of you.

You must give God his due, by regulating rightly his Church according to his Scri∣pture, which is now out of order. For to set you in a way particularly, now I cannot; but only this, A National Synod, freely called, freely debating among themselves; must settle this, when that every Opinion is freely and clearly heard.

For the King, indeed I will not,—

(Then turning to a Gentleman that touched the Axe, He said,

Hurt not the Axe, that may hurt Me.) For the King, the Laws of the Land will clearly instruct you for that; therefore, because it concerns My Own particular, I only give you a touch of it.

For the People; And truly I desire their Liberty and Freedom as much as any body whomsoever: but I must tell you, that their Liberty and Freedom consists in having of Government, those Laws by which their Life and their Goods may be most their own. It is not for having share in Government, Sir; that is nothing pertaining to them; a Subject and a Soveraign are clear different things. And therefore until they do that, I mean, that you do put the People in that Liberty as I say, certainly they will never enjoy themselves. Sirs, It was for this that now I am come here: If I would have given way to an Arbitrary way, for to have all Laws changed accor∣ding to the power of the Sword, I needed not to have come here; and therefore I tell you, (and I pray God it be not laid to your charge) that I am the Martyr of the People.

In troth, Sirs, I shall not hold you much longer; for I will only say this to you, That in truth I could have desired some little time longer, because that I would have put this that I have said in a little more order, and a little better digested than I have done; and therefore I hope you will excuse Me.

I have delivered My Conscience: I pray God that you do take those courses that are best for the good of the Kingdom and your own Salvation.

Then the Bishop said,

Though it be very well known what Your Majesty's affections are to the Protestant Religion, yet it may be expected that You should say somewhat for the Worlds satis∣faction in that particular.

Whereupon the King replied,

I thank you very heartily, My Lord, for that; I had almost forgotten it.

In troth, Sirs, My Conscience in Religion, I think, is very well known to all the World; and therefore I declare before you all, That I die a Christian, according to the Profession of the Church of England, as I found it left Me by My Father: and this honest man,* 4.4 I think, will witness it.

Then turning to the Officers he said,

Sirs, Excuse Me for this same. I have a good Cause, and I have a gracious God. I will say no more.

Then to Colonel Hacker He said,

Take care that they do not put Me to pain. And, Sir, this, and it please you—

But a Gentleman coming near the Axe, the King said,

Take heed of the Axe; pray take heed of the Axe.

And to the Executioner, He said,

I shall say but very short Prayers, and when I thrust out My hands—

Then He called to the Bishop for His Cap, and having put it on, asked the Executioner,

Does My Hair trouble you?

Who desired Him to put it all under His Cap; which as he was doing by the help of the Bishop and the Executioner, He turned to the Bishop, and said,

I have a good Cause, and a gracious God on My side.

The Bishop said,

There is but one Stage more;* 4.5 which though turbulent and trouble∣some, yet is a very short one. You may consider it will soon carry You a very great way; it will carry You from Earth to Heaven; and there You shall find, to Your great joy, the prize You hasten to, a Crown of Glory.

The King adjoyns,

I go from a corruptible to an incorruptible Crown; where no distur∣bance can be, no disturbance in the world.

Bishop.

You are exchanged from a Temporal to an Eternal Crown: A good Ex∣change.

Then the King asked the Executioner,

Is My Hair well?

And taking off His Cloak and George, He delivered His George to the Bishop, saying, Remember.

Then putting off His Doublet, and being in His Wast-coat, He put on His Cloak again, and looking upon the Block, said to the Executioner,

You must set it fast.

Execut.

It is fast, Sir.

KING.

It might have been a little higher.

Execut.

It can be no higher, Sir.

KING.

When I put out My hands this way, then—

Then having said a few words to Himself, as He stood, with hands and eyes lift up, immediately stooping down He laid His Neck upon the Block; and the Executioner again putting His Hair under His Cap, His Majesty thinking he had been going to strike, bad him

Stay for the Sign.

Execut.

Yes, I will, and it please Your Majesty.

After a very short pause, His Majesty stretching forth his hands, the Executioner at one blow severed His Head from His Body: Which being held up and shewed to the People, was with His Body put into a Coffin covered with black Velvet, and carried into His Lodg∣ing.

His Blood was taken up by divers persons for different ends; by some as Trophies of their Villany, by others as Reliques of a Martyr; and in some hath had the same effect, by the blessing of God, which was often found in His Sacred Touch when living.

The Malice of His Enemies ended not with His Life; For when His Body was carried to Saint James's to be opened, they directed their Empericks to search for such Symptomes as might disgrace His Person or His Posterity. But herein they were prevented by an honest Intruder, who gave a true account of His sound and excellent Temperament.

Being imbalmed, and laid in a Coffin of Lead to be seen, for some days, by the People, at length, upon Wednesday the seventh of February, it was delivered to four of His Servants, Herbert, Mildmay, Preston and Joyner, who, with some others, in mourning equipage attended the Herse that night to Windsore, and placed it in the Room which was formerly the Kings Bed-chamber.

Next day it was removed into the Deans Hall, which was hung with black and made dark, and Lights were set burning round the Herse. About three afternoon, the Duke of Richmond, the Marquess of Harford, the Earls of Southampton and Lindsey, and the Bishop of London, (others that were sent to refusing that last Service to the best of Princes) came thither with two Votes passed that Morning, whereby the ordering of the King's Burial was committed to the Duke, provided that the Expences thereof exceeded not five hundred pounds. This Order they sheved to Colonel Whichcot the Governor of the Castle, desiring that the Interrment might be in Saint George's Chappel, and according to the form of the Common-Prayer. The latter Request the Governour denied, saying, That it was impro∣bable the Parliament would permit the use of what they had so solemnly abolished, and therein destroy their own Act.

The Lords replied,

That there was a difference betwixt destroying their own Act, and dispensing with it; and that no Power so binds its own hands, as to disable it self in some cases.

But all prevailed not.

The Governour had caused an ordinary Grave to be digged in the body of the Church of Windsore for the Interment of the Corps; which the Lords disdaining, found means by the direction of an honest man, one of the old Knights, to use an artifice to discover a Vault in the middle of the Quire, by the hollow sound they might perceive in knocking with a Staff upon that place; that so it might seem to be their own accidental finding out, and no person receive blame for the discovery. This place they caused to be opened, and entring saw one large Coffin of Lead in the middle of the Vanlt covered with a Velvet Pall, and a lesser on one side (supposed to be Henry the Eighth, and His beloved Queen Jane Saint-Maure) on the other side was room left for another (probably intended for Queen Katherine Parre, who survived Him) where they thought fit to lay the King.

Hither the Herse was born by the Officers of the Garrison, the four Lords bearing up the Corners of the Velvet Pall, and the Bishop of London following. And in this manner was this Great King, upon Friday the ninth of February, about three afternoon, silently, and without other Solemnity than of Sighs and Tears, committed to the Earth, the Velvet Pall being thrown into the Vault over the Coffin; to which was fastened an Inscription in Lead of these words,

KING CHARLES 1648.

Notes

• * 2.1

  [Passed by the Fag∣end of the House of Commons; Jan. 4. having been cast out by the Lords, Jan. 2.]
• * 3.1

  Here∣about I was stopt, and not suffered to speak any more con∣cerning Reasons.
• * 3.2

  defiance.
• * 3.3

  Answer.
• * 3.4

  four (for it seems some came in after)
• * 3.5

  Here a La∣dy interpo∣sed, saying▪ Not half the People; but was si∣lenced with threats.
• * 4.1

  Upon the Earl of Strafford.
• * 4.2

  Pointing to the Bishop.
• * 4.3

  Turning to some Gentle∣men that wrote.
• * 4.4

  Pointing to the Bishop.
• * 4.5

  These words were spoken up∣on occasion of private Dis∣course between His Majesty and the Bishop concerning the several Stages of man's life, and his course through them, in al∣lusion to Posts and Stages in a Race.