A short view of the late troubles in England briefly setting forth, their rise, growth, and tragical conclusion, as also, some parallel thereof with the barons-wars in the time of King Henry III : but chiefly with that in France, called the Holy League, in the reign of Henry III and Henry IV, late kings of the realm : to which is added a perfect narrative of the Treaty at U[n]bridge in an.

CHAP. XXI.

THE torrent of Rebellion thus violently* 1.1 bearing all down before it, what Garrisons remained were necessitated soon after also to submit; viz. the port Town of Barnsta∣ple in Devonshire upond 1.2 the seventh of April, and the Fort there some few days after. Ruthin-castle also (in Flintshire) then yielded* 1.3 to Colonel Mitton: Corfe-castle in Dorset-shire, about the same time being given up.

The City of Exeter likewise, Sir Iohn Berkley, Knight, (afterwards Lord Berkley of Stratton) being at that time Governour thereof, who delivered itf 1.4 upon honourable Articles, wherein amongst others, the most loyal Sir Iohn Stowel Knight of the Bath, was included, though afterwards dishonourably and barba∣rously used. Soon after which Saint Michael's∣mount in Cornwall was takeng 1.5 by Colonel Hamond. Dunsterh 1.6 castle also in Somerset-shire,

and Woodstock-housei 1.7 near Dxford then also submitting.

All the West therefore being thus cleared, except Pendennis-castle, there could be no less expected than a siege of Oxford.

His Majesty therefore considering, that having usedd 1.8 all means possible, by his frequent gracious Messages, (wherein he had offered unto them all they had before desired; and that he expected nothing, but what themselves, since the beginning of those unhappy wars, had offered, to procure a personal Treaty with them) for a safe and well grounded peace: And, having, in stead of a du∣tiful and peaceable return to those his Messages, received no Answer at all; or such as argued nothing would satisfy them, but the ruine not onely of himself, his posterity and friends, but even of Monarchy it self. Considering like∣wise, that his field-forces were shattered, and reduc'd to nothing; his Garrisons almost all lost, or besieged; and that a strong Army, under the command of Sir Thomas Fairfax (their then General) was advan∣cing towards Oxford, there to besiege him, together with the Duke of York, All the great Officers of State, and many other of his most eminent and faithfull Subjects. In this his most sad, and unhappy condi∣tion, revolving, whether he had better cast himself upon the English-Army, or the City of London, or rather his native Subjects the Scots, who had at that time besieg'd Newarke upon Trent, with a great and numerous Army: Having* 1.9 received very good assurance (as he then believ'd) that himself and all that did adhere to him, should be safe in their Persons, Honour and Consciences in the Scotch Army. And that they (the Scots) would really and effectually joyn with him, and such other as would come in unto him, and joyn with them for his preservation; and would imploy their Armies and For∣ces to assist him to the procuring of an happy and well-groun∣ded peace, for the good of his said Majesty and his King∣domes, in the recovery of his just rights (Necessity being then his Councellour) he adventuredf 1.10 upon their fide∣lity, who first began his troubles, trusting that God might make them a means honourably to compose them: and

thereupon wentg 1.11 out of Oxford disguised, in the night time, with two persons onely accompanying him; viz. Mr. Iohn Ashburnham (one of the Grooms of his royal Bedchamber) and one Mr Hudson a Di∣vine, his Guide. From Oxford they first rode to Henley upon Thames; Thence to Brainford: Thence near to London, and so to Harrow on the Hill, there being then a general muster of the City forces in Hide Park, where he was expected, the Earl of Essex being at that time in the Field, and his Majestie almost perswaded to adventure himself into their hands. But relying wholly on the Scots, who had promised so fair (as before is observed) he wa∣ved those thoughts, and rode to St. Albans; so to Harborough in Leicestershire, where he expected the French* 1.12 Agent (who had so treated with the Scots on his behalf as I have already observed) with some Horse to meet him, and conduct him to Southwell, the then Head quarters of the Scottish-Army. But mis∣sing him there, he thence passed to Stanford (on the edge of Lincolnshire) and so to Downham in Norfolk: whence Mr. Hudson was sent to the Agent; and upon his return went directly to Southwel, where he arriveda 1.13 the 5 th. of May; and put himself into the hands of Alexander Lesley their Ge∣neral; resolvingi 1.14 to use his best endeavours, by their assistance, and with the conjunction of those for∣ces in Scotland, under the Marquess of Montrose, and such of his well affected Subjects of England, as would rise for him, to procure, if it might be, an honourable and speedy peace, with those who had hitherto refused to give ear to any good means ten∣ding thereto.

Being thus gone, siegeb 1.15 was immediately laid to Oxford by General Fairfax, soon after which, se∣veral other places of strength were surrendred by the King's special direction; viz. Newark, the eleventh c 1.16 of May, which had been besieg'd by Poyntz and Rosse∣ter (the Scots assisting) from December before.

The Castle of Banbury likewise, after a siege of ten weeks by Colonel Whalley.

And on the thirteenth of May, the Scots, having not patience to attend the voluntary surrenders of a∣ny more places of strength, begand 1.17 their march towards Newcastle in Northumberland, taking the King along with them.* 1.18 Where being arrived (and quartering their Army thereabouts) they in∣stantly pressed his Majestie to send Orders to the Mar∣quess of Ormund, in Ireland, and all other the Governours of his Garisons in England, to give up all the Towns and Castles then remaining, to such as should be appointed to receive them for the Houses of Parliament: Telling him, that otherwise, they neither could, nor durst continue him in their protection.

To which necessity his Majestie was constrain'd to submit: but nothing was by them more earnestly in∣sisted on, than that the Marquess of Montross should lay down Arms; who, with a small strength at first, had acted in Scotland to admiration: for, be∣sides many victories of less note, he had twice beaten the Marquess of Argyle out of the Field; follow'd him home, and wasted his Country with Fire and Sword; and vanquisht Bayley, one of their best Soul∣diers: made himself also Master of the Castle of E∣denborough, releasing divers of his Friends, who had been seized on, and imprisoned there, when he first took up Arms. But instead of those Aids which he hoped for, he was unexpectedly set upon by Da∣vid Lesley, who was sent from the Scottish Army in England with six thousand Horse to oppose the farther progress of this most valiant persons fortune. However, he began to make head again, and was in a way of fair success, when he receiv'd the Kings command to disband; (viz. 31 May 1647.) To which he readily conforming, took Ship, and put himself into a voluntary Exile. After which time of this their perfidious dealing with the King, 'tis observable that they never prospered. But I proceed briefly to point out the times of surrender of the rest of his Ma∣jesties Garrisons.

In the same monthe 1.19 of May Dudley-castle in Staffordshire was delivered up to Sir William Brereton

by Colonel Leveson: and soon afterf 1.20 Carnar∣von Town and Castle to Major General Mitton, and Major General Langhorn, the Lord Byron being then Governour there. Likewise Ludlowg 1.21 (in Shrop∣shire) to Sir William Brereton: and Borstall-house near Oxford.

Oxford it self also soon followed,h 1.22 Sir Thomas Glemham being then Governour: As also Farringdon i 1.23 in Berkshire, Sir George L'isle being Gover∣nour.

Next Lichfield-closek 1.24 in Staffordshire: Then the City of Worcesterl 1.25 besieg'd by Colonel Whalley, and Colonel Raynsborough, Colonel Washing∣ton being Governour: Also Wallingford castlem 1.26 Colonel Blague being Governour. Gotherich Castle n 1.27 likewise in Hereford shire and Pendennis-castle in Cornwall, whereof Iohn Arrundel of Trerise was Governour; Conway Castle in Flintshire being storm'd by Major General Mitton.

In the next month, after a long siege by General Fairfax, Sir Trevor Williams and Colonel Langhorn, Ragland-castle in Monmouth shire, was yieldedo 1.28 to them: And soon after the Isles and Castle of Scilly were given up:p 1.29 As alsoq 1.30 the Castles of Denbigh and Holt: Whereupon Generall Fair∣fax advancedr 1.31 triumphantly towards London.

And on the first of February next following, the Scots, having effectually received the whole Sum of two hundred thousand pounds, for which they sold the King, they marcht† 1.32 over Twede into Scotland.

His Majestie having thus cast himself upon the loyalty of those (touching whose large professions and protestations to him,* 1.33 I have already taken notice) let us now behold the blessed Fruits of Presbytery, by the subsequent Practises of these Zelots; which doth amply make good, what King Iames long since de∣clared k 1.34 of that Sect; viz. that no deserts could ob∣lige; nor Oaths, or Promises bind them. For, notwith∣standing those their solemn Oaths and Protestations, they most perfidiously acted contrary to them; hast∣ning

thereby that farther ruin, which soon after∣wards befel the Church of England, and at length terminated in the wofull murther of their native Sove∣reign, as is notoriously known to the World, carry∣ing on all this, under the colour and veile of their So∣lemn League and Covenant.

In order whereunto, the first thing observable, is a plausible Letterl 1.35 directed to the Committee of Estates, at that time residing with the Scotch Army; wherein they tell them; that their earnest desire, being to keep a right understanding between the two Kigndomes, did move them, to acquaint them, with that strange pro∣vidence, wherewith they were then surprised, together with their carriage and desires thereupon; and to endeavour to improve his Majesties being there, to the best advantage for promoting the work of Vniformity, for setling of Reli∣gion and Righteousness, and attaining of Peace, according to the League and Covenant, and Treaty, &c. affirming, that they had a Witness from Heaven; and that there was nothing more in their desires, than in all their resolutions and proceedings; to adhere to the Covenant and Treaty.

¶What hopes this specious Letter might give his Majestie for promoting his earnest endeavours, for such an happy peace, as he desired, is hard to say; considering what relation it had to the Solemn League and Covenant: but his former assurances in order to his coming to them (as I have already observed) be∣ing such as they were; he became so confident there∣upon; as that, shortly after, he sent unto the two Houses at Westminster, his xi th. Messagem 1.36, where∣by because they had made so great a noyse of setling Religion; That, together with the Militia, and the War of Ireland, being the chief things insisted on, in their former Propositions; he recomended to them the advice therein of those Divines in both Kingdomes, whom they had assembled at Westminster: And for the Militia offred, that he would be content to settle it, as they themselves proposed in the Treaty at Uxbridge; viz. that all persons, who should be trusted therewith might be named by the two Houses of Parlia∣ment, for the space of seven years; and after that time, to

be regulated as should be agreed on by his Majestie and his two Houses of Parliament. And touching Ire∣land, that he would do whatsoever was possible for him, to give full satisfaction to them. And that, if those his free offers would not serve; then he desi∣red, that al such of their Propositions, as were then by them agree'd on, might be speedily sent to him; he being resolved to comply with them in every thing that might conduce to the happiness of his subjects; and removing all unhappy differences, which had pro∣duced so many sad effects. Farther offring, that all his forces should be forthwith disbanded; and Ox∣ford with the remainder of his other Garrisons, ren∣dred into their hands, upon honourable conditions; and dismantled.

But to this gracious Message (as to his former) they turn'd a deaf ear; there being, then, another Game to be play'd; which was the getting of the King's person out of the Hands of the Scots; suspecting (as they had cause) that those their dear Brethren would make no little advantage thereof. Notwithstanding the Votesf 1.37 at Westminster, that he should be dispo∣sed of, as they should desire and direct.

Concerning which Votes at Westminster and debates of both Houses thereupon, it will not be a∣miss, here to take notice: how they alledg'dg 1.38 that the Scottish Army in England was theirs; id est, under their pay. Also that the King ought to be near to his Parliament, whereby they might have recourse to him, and obtain such things, as should be most necessary for the Kingdomes. Likewise, that by Covenant they were sworn to preserve the Rights and Priviledges of Par∣liament: but to detein the King from his Parliament was altogether inconsistent with the Covenant.

Of which Votes the Scots seem'd to take little no∣tice; but in stead thereof, and for diversion, amused the Members at Westminster with several Letters, which they caused to be written to them; oneh 1.39 from the general assembly of the Kingdome of Scot∣land: wherein they told them; that their success a∣gainst the Enemy (id est, the King's Forces) did lay a

strong obligation upon them, to improve the power put into their Hands, for the advancement of the Kingdome of Christ, and bringing forth the head-stone of his House: And therefore did earnestly intreat and beseech them in the Bowels of Christ, to give unto him the glory due to his name, by a timeous establishment of all his Ordinances in full integrity and power, according to the Covenant, &c. Saying, that the Searcher of Hearts knew how they desired to keep their Covenant, &c. concluding with their de∣sires to the Parliament, to endeavour all the ends of the Covenant.

The otheri 1.40 to the Assembly of Divines, sitting at Westminster, wherein they expressed their Thanks for their constant endeavours and labours, in the work of set∣ting up the Ordinances of Christ; desiring, that they would go on in the sedulous promoting of that blessed work.

The thirdk 1.41 was to the Lord Mayor, Alder∣men, and Common-council of the City of London, which (because 'tis penned in so divine a stile) I have here transcribed.

Right Honourable,

Your late and seasonable Testimony given to the truth of the Gospel; and you affection to the peace of the King∣domes, manifested in your humble Remonstrance, and Petition to the Honourable Houses of Parliament, hath so revived the remembrance of your former faith and zeal, and proclaymed you the worthy seed of so noble Ancestors in that famous City; as we cannot but acknowledg with all thank∣fulness, the Grace of God, bestowed on you, and stir you up to take notice; how, since you were precious in the Lord's sight, you have been ever honourable. The Lord hath ever loved you; given men for you, and people for your life. What an honour was it, in the days of old, when the fire of the Lord was in Sion, and his furnace in your Hieru∣salem (even in Queen Mary's days) that there were found in you men that loved not their lives unto the death. What a glory in after-times, when Satan had his Throne, and

Antichrist his seat in the midst of you, that there were still found, not a few that kept their Garments clear. But the greatest praise of the good hand of God upon you, hath been this; that amidst the many mists of Error and Here∣sie, which have risen from the bottomless pit, to bespot the face and darken the glory of the Church, while the Bride is a making ready for the Lamb, you have held the Truth, and most piously endeavoured the setting of Christ upon his Throne. We need not remember how zealous you have been in the cause of God; nor how you have laid out your selves, and estates, in the maintenance thereof; nor how many acknowledgments of the same you have had from the Honourable Houses; nor how precious a remem∣brance will be had of you in after Ages, for your selling of all to buy the Pearl of price. Wee onely at this time do admire, and in the inward of our hearts do bless the Lord, for your right and deep apprehensions of the great and im∣portant matters of Christ in his Royal Crown, and of the Kingdomes in their Vnion, while the Lord maketh offer to bring our Ship (so much afflicted and tossed with tempest) to the safe harbour of Truth and Peace. Right memorable is your zeal against Sects and Sectaries; your care of Re∣formation, according to the Word of God, and the example of the best reformed Churches. Your earnest endeavours and noble adventures, for preserving of the Rights and Pri∣viledges of Parliament, and Liberties of the Kingdome, to∣gether with his Majesties just power and greatness; and your high profession, that it is not in the power of any humane authority, to discharge or absolve you, from adhe∣ring unto that our solemnly sworn League and Covenant; or to inforce upon you any sense, contrary to the Letter of the same.

Besides your other good services done to the Lord and us, in strengthening the hands of the reverend Assembly of Divines, and of our Commissioners in their asserting the Government of Christ (which, the more it is tryed, will be ever found the more precious Truth) and vindicating the same from the Vsurpation of man, and contempt of the Wicked.

These all, as they are so many testimonies of your piety, loyalty, and undaunted resolution to stand for Christ; so

are they, and shall ever be, so many obligations upon us your Brethren, to esteem highly of you in the Lord; and to bear you on our Breasts before him night and day; and to contribute our best endeavours to improve all opportunities for your encouragement. And now we beseech you in the Lord (Honourable and well-beloved) go on in this your strength, and in the power of his might, who hath honoured you to be faithfull. Stand fast in that Liberty wherewith Christ hath made you free: And, in pursuance of this Truth, we are con∣fident you will never cease to study the peace and nearer conjunction of the Kingdomes; knowing, that a threefold cord is not easily broken. Now the Lord Iesus Christ him∣self, and God even our Father, who hath loved and honoured you, and given you everlasting consolation, and good hope through Grace, comfort your Hearts and stablish you in eve∣ry good work.

Subscribed in the name of the general Assembly by Robert Blair Moderator.

Moreover in another Letterl 2.1 from the said Assem∣bly of the Kirk of Scotland, to the Assembly of Di∣vines at Westminster they told them, how they did congratulate with the Lord's people in all their successes; and did impatiently desire to have their Brethren here, and themselves joyned nearer to Christ, and to one another in all his Ordinances, and especially in Presbytereal Govern∣ment.

But in the neck of these Letters,'tis worthy obser∣vation, that the Marquess of Argyle, and Scottish-Commissioners, delivered a paperm 2.2 to the Mem∣bers at Westminster, representing the Necessities of their Army; desiring therefore, that their Quarters in the North might be enlarged, and a considerable supply of mony dispatcht to them.

Most certain it is, that though these sanctified men (both English and Scotch.) did seem to be so firmly united by their grand Combination, called the solemn∣league and Covenant; as that, in humane reason few there were that thought they could afterwards have differed; the gayning of the King's person into their

Hands, began now to make it manifest, that this seem∣ing sacred Tye, was but a mear jugling device, origi∣nally forged and set on foot for the better carrying on their sacrilegious temporal ends. For, from that ve∣ry time, however they conceal'd themselves, with all the subtilties imaginable, their animosities against each other did daily increase (as 'twill hereafter appear) Nevertheless, to make a specious outward shew, of their continued accordance; they agreed together, in sending certain Propositionsn 2.3 to the King (which they had been no less than eight months in hammer∣ing) in order to a well-grounded Peace, (as their phrase was:) whereunto they required his Answer within four days.

How monstrous and unreasonable these were, the tenor of them will sufficiently shew, (they being pub∣lickly printed) in brief, that he should ratify the so∣lemn-league and Covenant, abolish Episcopacy; invest the subject with the power of the Militia; and exempt from pardon several Lords and other considerable per∣sons, that during the war had adhered to him. Where∣unto His Majesty most piously and prudently made this return; That they importing so great alterations in Government, both in Church and Kingdome, it was very difficult to return a particular and positive answer to them, before a full debate, wherein their necessary explanation, true sense, and reasons of them were rightly weighted and understood. To which end he desired to come to London, or any of his Houses thereabouts, upon the publick Faith and the security of the two Houses of Parliament, and Scottish-Com∣missioners. Where, by his personal presence, he might not onely raise a mutual confidence betwixt himself and his people; but have those doubts cleared, and those difficulties explained to him, which he then con∣ceived to be destructive to his just regal power, in case he should give a full consent to those Propositions, as they then stood: Engaging himself to give his chear∣ful assent to all such Bills, as should be really to the good and peace of his people; and to prefer the hap∣piness of this Kingdome before his own particular. And,

as a farther means to work a confidence in them of his own sincerity in these things, he offered again to trust them with his own person: conjuring them, as they were Christians and Subjects; and as they were men who desired to leave a good name behind them, so to receive and make use of that his Answer, that all issues of bloud might be stopped, and those unhappy distractions peaceably setled.

But, as his former gracious and frequent offers, so this, could not then find any acceptance at all with them; by reason that it tended to the composure of those lamentable distractions, which tended to the ut∣ter ruine of the King and Realm; their aims at first, and continued resolutions still being to share the spoyl, which by their strength and power they had most un∣justly got. Nay, in stead of any kindness or com∣fort, which he might rationally expect from their many and most solemn promises and protestations, they perpetually tormented his pious Soul, with in∣cessant importunities, to take their hypocritical Cove∣nant; and sent for several of their most rigid Prea∣chers o 2.4, to terrify him with their Kirk-censures up∣on his refusal thereof.

In which sad and disconsolate condition, I shall for a while leave him; and take a short view of the trans∣actions, betwixt the Members sitting at Westmin∣ster, and those at Edenborough, with their respec∣tive Commissioners.

The principal work being now done, here in Eng∣land, by the help of the Scots; the Grandees here (as well as others) began to be weary of their dear Brethren: and for the sooner riddance of them, pas∣sed a Vote,p 2.5 that a Message should be sent to the Scottish Army; that, in regard they were not usefull in this Kingdome, for the present; and that the payment thereof would be a great burthen thereto, they should with all convenient speed, return into their Country.

But the Scots (never intending to be loosers by their journey hither) knowing full well how to make the best use of those advantages they then had, gave their dear Brethren very good words; tellingq 2.6 them in

their answer to the demands made in pursuance of that Vote; that their earnest desires were, the setling of Reli∣gion, and Church Government; which, as it was the principal ground of their engagement in this Cause, so would the perfecting of it be their chiefest joy, and Glory of both Kingdomes: it being the constant resolution of that Kingdome, against all opposition, to strengthen and cherish the Brotherly kindness between the Kingdomes: and, Peace setled with Truth, and those things performed by the Honourable Houses, which by Treaty they were obliged unto, to recall their Army, with as great alacrity, as they were ready to send the same into England, for the assis∣tance of their Brethren.

And in another Letter, speaking of the Arrears due to their Army, they had these wordsr 2.7—This Kingdome lyeth under the burthen of great and vast ex∣pence, in raising and entertaining of Armies; and hath with the lives of many precious men, set their own Houses on fire, to quench the flame of yours. And seeing, by the seasonable assistance afforded by this Kingdome to you, and by the late successes wherewith God hath blessed your Armies, you are in a great measure freed of your troubles, and are in a far better capacity to pay the moneys, due to our Ar∣mies in England and Ireland, than you were at any time since the beginning of these Wars; we demand of the honourable houses, to make payment of the summs of mo∣ney duly owing to this Kingdome.

¶The state of things standing thus, made the Game now to be play'd betwixt these great Masters, not a little difficult to each; the chief business of the then predominant party at Westminster, being to gain the person of the King into their own hands: and in case he should not (upon the matter) totally quit his Regal power to them, by taking their Cove∣nant, and assenting to those their destructive proposi∣tions before-mentioned; then to keep him close pri∣soner, and exercise the same power without him.

And the design of the Scots, not onely to use the like Regal-power in Scotland, but to get a large sum of mony to boot: considering, that having the King in their hands, the Grandees there were able to

make their own terms on the behalf of themselves, as to Riches and Honours. There was therefore no means unessayed by each, for accomplishing their respective ends: But the Arguments and debates about this bu∣siness, continuing no less than six months, before all things were fully agree'd, I shall reserve my observa∣tions upon them till then; and in the mean time take notice of what else did occur that is most remarka∣ble, in order to the carrying on their main work; and divide the same into two parts; the one touching their attempts upon the King, in relation to the Co∣venant and Propositions: the other towards the ad∣vancement of the Scepter of Iesus Christ; for by that title they called their Presbyterean Doctrine and Disci∣pline.

As to the first; About the beginning of September, Iames Duke Hamilton, Lindsey Earl of Craford, the Earl of Cassiles, and some others, from the Estates of Scotland, came† 2.8 to Newcastle to the King; and there earnestly solicited him to take the Covenant, and sign the Propositions. To second which motion, there was a petition presented to His Majesty from the general Assembly of the Kirk of Scotland, for Refor∣mation of Religion, according to the Covenant, and uni∣formity of Church government; denouncing God's anger upon him, and the hazard to lose the Hearts of his good subjects, in case he assented not thereto.

Soon after which, Mr. Andrew Cant, Mr. Robert Blayre, and Mr. Iames Douglass camet 2.9 thither also to press him to the same purpose. To torment him likewise yet more, one of these violent men (I mean a rigid Presbyterean-preacher) besides many rude and uncivil expressionsv 2.10 in his Sermon there before the King; called for the 52. Psalm to be sung by the con∣gregation, which beginneth thus—Why do'st thou Ty∣rant boast abroad, thy wicked works to praise? Whereup∣on His Majesty instantly stood up, and called for the 56. Psalm, beginning thus—Have mercy Lord on me I pray, for men would me devour: Which the people rea∣dily sung, waving the other.

Nay, the fierceness of these Scottish-presbyters a∣gainst

His Sacred Majesty was such; as that upon cer∣tain Proposalsx 2.11, made to those of them, who were Commissioners from the general Assembly, viz. If the King shall come into Scotland, and that the Kingdome of England shall exclude him of the Government there, for his leaving them without granting the Propositions; Whether or not it would be lawful to that Kingdome to as∣sist him for the recovery of the Government, he not granting the Propositions, concerning Religion, and the Cove∣nant, and not giving a satisfactory answer to the rema∣nent Propositions.

Their Answer.

The Quaere presupposeth the King's coming into this Kingdome, which case (for the reasons expressed in our late warning) we humbly conceive should not be put into the Question: and therefore desire your Lordships to go about all means for the present preventing of it, as a mat∣ter of most dangerous consequence to Religion, this Kirk, and Kingdome, and to the King himself and his po∣sterity.

But, if the Question be stated simply, without sup∣posing such a case in these termes. If the King be ex∣cluded from Government in England, for not granting the propositions concerning Religion and the Covenant; and for not giving a satisfactory Answer to the remanent propositions; whether, in that case it be lawfull for this Kingdome to assist him, for the Recovery of the Govern∣ment: Or, if it be not lawfull, being put to it, we cannot but answere, in regard of the Engagement of this Kingdome, by Covenant and Treaty, Negative.

1. Resolv'd upon the Question, That the Kingdome of Scotland, shall be governed as it hath been these five years last past; all means being used, that the King may take the Covenant, and pass the Proposi∣tions.

2. Resolv'd, that the taking of the Scottish Cove∣nant, and passing some of the Propositions, doth not give warrant to assist him against England.

3. Resolv'd, that upon bare taking the National Co∣venant, we may not receive him.

4. Resolv'd,* 2.12 that the Clause in the Covenant, for de∣fence of the King's Person, is to be understood in defence and safety of the Kingdomes.

5. Resolv'd, that the King shall not execute any power in the Kingdome of Scotland, untill such time, as he hath granted the Propositions, concerning Religion and the Covenant; and given satisfactory an∣swer to both Kingdomes in the rest of the Propositions, presented to him by both Kingdomes at Newca∣stle.

6. Resolv'd, that if His Majestie refuse to pass the Propositions, he shall be disposed of according to the Covenant and Treaty.

7. Resolv'd, that the union be friendly kept between the Kingdomes, according to the Covenant and Treaty.

By what hath last been instanc'd, tis easy enough to be discern'd, that bargain so long in driving on, was by this time concluded, in reference to the person of the King (I mean the certain price for which the Scots did sell him) which prompted them so eagerly and frequently to press his taking their Covenant, and consent to those destructive Propositions, which they well knew, he could never do, without apparent ha∣zard to his Soul: and that he had manifestly confu∣ted the Arguments of Mr. Alexander Henderson, whom they brought to convince him therein. I shall there∣fore need to say no more of that matter, then to set down the Quaeresy 2.13, which His Majestie delivered to the Commissioners of Scotland upon their last impor∣tuning him thereto, when they threatned to deliver him up to the Parliament of England (as they then called those Members at Westminster) in case of his refusal.

It is aa 2.14 receiv'd opinion by many; that Engagements, Acts, or Promises of a restrained person, are neither valid, nor obligatory. How true or false this is, I will not now dispute: but I am sure, if I be not free, I am not fit to an∣swer any of your Propositions: wherefore you should first

resolve me, in what state I stand, as in relation to freedome, before I can give you any other Answer. The Reason of this my Question, the Governour can best resolve you. But, if you object the loss of time, and urgency of it; certainly, in one respect, it presses none so much as my self, which makes me also think it necessary, that I be not to seek what to do, when this Garrison shall be surrendred up; to demand of you, in case I go into Scotland, if I shall be there with Honour, Freedome, and Safety; or How; being ready to give you a farther and more particular Answer, so soon as you shall have resolv'd these two Quaeres.

Whereunto they give this insignificant Answer.

1. To the first, in what state you stand, as in relati∣on to Freedome; the Parliaments of both Kingdomes have given such orders, and directions, as they have thought fittest for the safety of your Majesty and the Kingdomes, to the General and Governour.

2. To your second Quaere, of your going into Scotland; we shall humbly desire, that we may not be put to give an Answer: but, if your Maje∣sty shall either deny, or delay your assent to the Pro∣positions; we are in that case to represent to your Majesty the resolutions of the Parliament of Eng∣land.

¶Having now done with their attempts upon His Majesty in reference to the Covenant and Propositions; I come to their farther Progress for the establishing of Presbytery. Wherein I am to look back a little.

About the latter end of August, a Bill for Ordinati∣on of Ministers, being the third time reada 2.15 in the House of Commons at Westminster, and thence transmitted to the Lords; not long after they received a Petitionb 2.16 from the County of Lancaster, subscri∣bed by twelve thousand hands, for setling of the Classes in those parts, with the names of such as they had made choyse of, and presented to the House for ordering thereof.

Nor were the Assembly of Divines sitting at West∣minster less active; who having fram'd a new Con∣fession of Faith, werec 2.17 hard at work in adding quotations of Scripture in the Margent of their Co∣pies, for justification thereof. And that this blessed Presbytereal Government, might be the more secure from danger the Houses at Westminster passed an Ordinanced 2.18 not onely for abolishing the name, title, and dignity of Arch-Bishops, Bishops, &c. but nominated Trustees in whom their Lands should be setled.

Likewise, for the fitter moulding this new Confessi∣on of Faith, Copies thereof (purposely printed) were delivered* 2.19 to each Member of both Houses at Westminster, to the end they might consider of the same, and advise the better therein.

But, notwithstanding all this holy Reformation, there were some, who had not onely the Conscience to ad∣here unto the Liturgy, establisht by Law in the Church of England, in their publick service of God; but the Courage to prosecute those by Indict∣ment, which neglected the reading thereof in their Parish-Churches. In so much as upon notice of this high presumption, from Buckinghamshire, an Ordi∣nance was forthwith votedf 2.20 to be brought in, for repealing the Statute which enjoyn'd it. At which time the House also orderedg 2.21, that all Malignant Ministers (for so were the Orthodox cal∣led) should be disabled from Preaching, and an Or∣dinance to be brought in for that purpose.

And, though by an Orderh 2.22 of the House of Commons, Mr. Sydrach Sympson (one of their Assem∣bly of Divines, (and an eminent stickler for the Cause) was, for some opinions and expressions, savouring of Independencie, to have been silenc'd: yet, by reason of his zeal to God's Glory (as they term'd it) that is to say, his activeness against Episcopacie, he was ex∣empted from the Rigour of that sentence.

Moreover, as they took care to disable those of the Clergy, which were Orthodox and Loyal, from preaching any more: so, to encourage all others

who were for their turn, though not at all qualified with learning, they gave liberty to every bold and schismatical Mechanick to preach, under the notion of Gifted-men. To which purpose an Ordinancei 2.23 was brought in to the House, and read, for approving of such illiterate persons to be Ministers.

And, that Episcopal Government might never re∣turn again, they passedk 2.24 an Ordinance for the sale of all the Lands belonging to the Bishops; with special instructionsl 2.25 therein, for the Contractors and Surveyors. Amongst which Instructions, it is not the least observable; that for the better encou∣raging of Purchasers, they should sell them at ten years purchase. Nay, such was their care, to make this sacrilegious work as plausible to the people as might be; that, besides the extraordinary pay their Surveyors of those Lands had (viz. 20 s. a day, and five shillings a day to every Boy that did but carry the end of the measuring-Chain) they gave special directions, that the Gentry and other popular-men, residing in those parts where such Lands lay, should be feasted by the Surveyors (which feasts amounted to no small charge) saying, Wee must pay well and hang well

About this time also, there was a Committee ap∣pointedm 2.26 to inquire into the Value of all Church∣livings, in order to the planting of an able Ministry, as they gave out; whereas in truth, it was to discover which were the best and fattest Beneficies, to the end, that the principal Champions for the Cause, might make choice of those for themselves (whereof some had three a piece, and some four, as is very well known) it being aparent, that where any small Benefice was, there the Church-dores were shut up. The more to justify which practice of theirs, I could name an As∣sembly man, who being told by an Eminent person, that a certain Church in the West of England, had no Incumbent; askt what the yearly value of the Be∣nefice did amount unto; and he answering sifty pounds per annum: the Assembly man reply'd—if it be no better worth, no Godly-man will accept of it.

But notwithstanding all this, the advancement of the Scepter of Iesus Christ (that is to say, the esta∣blishing the Presbyterean-Government by a Law) went but slowly on, insomuch as the Covenanting Brethren in London, who were dayly agitated with the zealous breath of the Presbyterean Bellows, from the Pulpits and otherwise; growing hot for the Scotch Discipline, busyed themselves not a little in getting Handsn 2.27 to a Petition, for prosecuting the ends of the Covenant; and, that Presbyterie might be established. And, for the better speed of that blessed work the latter part of their new Confession of Faith, being brought in, by the Assembly of Divines, and read in the House of Commons; it was Ordered that marginal notes should be forthwith added thereto, to prove every Article by Scripture: and that the Assembly should also bring in their Answers to the Quaeres of the House, concerning the Ius divinum of Presbyterie.

Notes

• * 1.1

  Anno 1646.
• d 1.2

  7. Apr.
• * 1.3

  8. Apr.
• f 1.4

  13. April.
• g 1.5

  15. April.
• h 1.6

  25. April.
• i 1.7

  26. April.
• d 1.8

  The King's Letter to the Marquess of Ormond, da∣ted at Ox∣ford 13. Apr. 1646.
• * 1.9

  Ibid.
• f 1.10

  Eikon basi∣liks.
• g 1.11

  27. April.
• * 1.12

  Monsieur de Monte∣real.
• a 1.13

  5. May.
• i 1.14

  K. Letter to the M. of Ormund ut supra.
• b 1.15

  2. May
• c 1.16

  11. May.
• d 1.17

  13. May.
• * 1.18

  The King removed to Newcastle upon Tine.
• e 1.19

  May
• f 1.20

  1. June.
• g 1.21

  9. June.
• h 1.22

  24. June.
• i 1.23

  24. June.
• k 1.24

  16. July.
• l 1.25

  23. July.
• m 1.26

  28. July.
• n 1.27

  31. July.
• o 1.28

  19. Aug.
• p 1.29

  16. Sept.
• q 1.30

  20. Octob.
• r 1.31

  11. Nov.
• † 1.32

  1. Febr.
• * 1.33

  The King went from Oxford to the Scot's Army at Southwell.
• k 1.34

  Basil. Do∣ron. p. 42.
• l 1.35

  6. May. perfect Di∣urnal p. 1166.
• m 1.36

  18. May.
• f 1.37

  perfect Di∣urnal. p. 1163.
• g 1.38

  Ibid. p. 1170 &. 1171.
• h 1.39

  18. Jnue. Ibid. p. 1236.
• i 1.40

  Ib. p. 1237.
• k 1.41

  Ibid.
• l 2.1

  27. Iune. Weekly Ac∣compt, num. 29.
• m 2.2

  25. June Perfect Di∣urnal p. 1219.
• n 2.3

  25. June. Propositions sent to the King at Newcastle.
• o 2.4

  Perfect Di∣urnal. p. 1233.
• p 2.5

  11. July.
• q 2.6

  Weekly Accompt, Num. 29.
• r 2.7

  Ibid.
• † 2.8

  Perfect Diurnal p. 1303. & 1304.
• t 2.9

  Ib. p. 1317.
• v 2.10

  Ib. p. 1419.
• x 2.11

  Ib. p. 1414. & 1435.
• * 2.12

  ☞
• y 2.13

  16. Jan.
• a 2.14

  Perfect Diurnal p. 1462.
• a 2.15

  27. Aug. Perfect Di∣urnal p. 1293.
• b 2.16

  Ib. p. 1313. Sept. 15.
• c 2.17

  Octob. 13. Ibid. p. 1346.
• d 2.18

  Scob. col. p. 99.
• * 2.19

  Octob. 24. Scob. col. p. 1358.
• f 2.20

  Octob. 16. Perfect Di∣urnal p. 1360.
• g 2.21

  Ibid.
• h 2.22

  Ibid. p. 1364. 28. Octob.
• i 2.23

  4. Novem. Ib. p. 1368. b.
• k 2.24

  16. Nov. Scob. Col. p. 101.
• l 2.25

  Perfect Di∣urnal. p. 1387.
• m 2.26

  11. Nov. Perfect Oc∣currences.
• n 2.27

  5. Decem. Perfect Di∣urnal p. 1406.