Miltons republican-letters or a collection of such as were written by command of the late Commonwealth of England from the year 1648 to the year 1659 / originally writ by the learned John Milton, secretary to those times ; and now translated into English by a wel-wisher of England's honour.

Here follow all the LETTERS Written by OLIVER CROMWELL, To forreign Princes and Potentates, while Protector of England.

To the Count of Oldenburgh.

Most Illustrious Sir.

I do, by Yours of the 20. of January 1654. apprehend, that Frederick 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Wollisogg, •…•… Noble Gentleman, and Your Secretary, with Christopher Griffie, were with certain comands sent from Your most Illu∣strious Dignity into England: Who, upon their approach unto Us, have in Your Name both congratulated our undertaking of the Admini∣stration of the Government of the Republick of England, and sollicited for an admittance for You and People into the Peace lately concluded between Us and the Hollanders: Petitioning (with all) our confirming the Grant lately obteind from the Parliament of Letters, commonly knowne by the name of Letters of safe conduct. We therefore, pursuant to our obli∣gation, returne our thanks for so friendly a Complement, and •…•…ave freely assented to the said two petitions, as being disposed to im∣prove all future occasions, which may at any time expresse our affection towards You, And are of opinion that You have had the same communica∣ted unto You at large, by Your said 〈◊〉〈◊〉, whose fidelity and diligence in this affair have been apparent. What I have to add is sincerely to wish You and affairs prosperity and tranquility.

Westminster, June 27. 1654.

I am your &c. most affectionally OLIVER Protector of England, Scotland and Ireland, &c.

To the Count of Oldinburgh.

YOur Letters of the 2. of May from Oldenburgh, are come to hand, and obliged me not in a single degree, for that the Letters themselves were so pregnant with singular kindness & affection towards me and withall de∣live•…•…ed

by the hand of the most Illustrious Lord Count Antonio, Your most beloved Son. That that I apprehend my selfe most dignified by, being the knowledge I now have of his vertues, whorthy so noble Ance∣stors of his extraordinary behaviour, & finally of his singular affection testified unto me now beyond words. Nor ought it to be a thing disputable, whether he gives his Relations at home inducements, to hope his inheri∣ting the qualities of his worthy, and Noble Father, whose clear vertue and prudence administred the continuance of many yeares interrupted Peace to the People of Oldenburgh, and cherished them with the effects of tran∣quillity among the severe Stormes of Warr, blowing from every Corner. Why should I therefore do otherwise then value the Alliance of such a Friend? whose conduct is so wise, and provident, so as to be able to a∣voide the enmity of all people. It is finally for that gift alone, Most Illu∣strious Sir, that I am thankfull; It is out of regard to justice, and Your merits that I 〈◊〉〈◊〉 subscribe my selfe

Your most &c. OLIVER Protector of England, &c.

Westminster, 29. June, 1654.

To the most Illustrious Lord ANTHONY GUNTER, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of Oldenburgh & Delmhorst, Leid in Jehven & Kniphausen.

OLIVIER, Protector of the Republick of England, Scotland, Ireland, &c. To the most Serene Prince CHARLES GUSTAVUS, King of Sweedland, Goths and Vandals, Great Prince of Finland▪ Duke of Esthany, Carelia, Bremen, Verde, Stetin, Pomeranie, Castalies and Vandale, Prince of Russin, Lord of Ingry Wismare, as also Duke Palatin of the Rhine, Bavaria, Jul. Clivia, and Duke of Monts, greeting.

Most Serene King.

THe choice made by Your Majesty of communicateing unto us by your most friendly letters that in particular, which comon same has for some dayes disperst over all the world, of the delcent of the Government of the Kingdome of Sweedland upon you, and that to the great content of

the people, and the free suffrage of all persons, i•…•… no slender argument of your great affection towards us, and an honour not of the meanest degree. Wee therefore freely and with Justice congratulate that addition of dig∣nity to Your most singu 〈◊〉〈◊〉 merits, and reward very worthy of so great a vertue, and do, with united prayers to God, wish, that which we are confident you do, namely, that the same may prove to the good, and prosperity of Your Majesty the Kingdome of Sweedland, and the Intrest of all Christendome. But as to what you mention touching your disposi∣tion to the alliance lately contracted between England and Sweedland, and acting our part towards its support, as also that Your Majesty will endeavour not onely the 〈◊〉〈◊〉, but likewise the improveing (if it were a thing fesible) the league now established, were an injustice to call to question the sinc•…•…rity of: The faith of so great a Prince haveing engaged for't: whose extraordinary vertue has not onely won an ever∣lasting inheritance in the affection of stangers abroad, but has been soe povverfull▪ as to have invited 〈◊〉〈◊〉 most August Queen, daughter of Gusta∣ves (whose m•…•…tch in all manner of good qualitys many past ages coud not produce) to make a resignation of the Government to you without either your knowledge or seeking. Be pleased therefore to be confident that your so singular affection unto us, and so clear a signification of your mind, are circumst•…•…nces of utmost acceptance unto us; and that no∣thing shall promote more our delight, then to oblige your kindnesse with our endeavours never to be wanting as farr as they can be made ser∣viceable,

Westminster 4. July 1654.

Your Majestyes most affectionally OLIVER, Protector of England, Scotland, Ireland, &c.

To the most 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Ludovico Mendesio de Haro.

WHat you write me, Illustrious Sir, of the most Serene King of Spains ha∣veing appointed, and nominated a person to come hitheir under the character of his E•…•…bassadour to congratulate with me my undertaking in the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of England, as it is a thing in it selfe justly gratefull, sovour 〈◊〉〈◊〉 study and quicknesse of care has renderd it so much the more so, who to heighten the obligation, have been pleased to be the first admenisher your selfe: For to have the love and affection of one,

who, by his prudence and vertue, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 gaind so much Authority with his owne prince, as to influence, (like your selfe) matters of the greatest moment in that Kingdome, ought to be no less pleasure to me, then •…•…nunderstand the good opinion of a most Excellent person, to be an orna∣ment to me. But as to any disposition of mind to wards the most Serene King of Spaine, in referrence as well to the Support of an alliance with that King, as readynesse to improve it dayly more and more, I hope, I have satisfied the Embassadour here, in that point, and may do it plentifully to him that is to succede him. I wish that the figure Moreover, and favour, under which you now move most Illustrious Sir, may be dureable; and that what ever you manage, or administer for the good of the publick, may end in aprosperous and happy 〈◊〉〈◊〉. 〈◊〉〈◊〉 am most Illustrious Sir, Your Excellencies most affectionatly.

OLIVER Protector of the Republick of England, Scotland, 〈◊〉〈◊〉, &c.

Whitehall, September, 1654.

To the most Serene Prince, CAROLUS GUSTAVUS ADOLPHUS, King of Sweedland, Goths and Vandales, &c.

AS Your Majesties last Letter, answered by me with a suitable Reply, represented Your Majesties singular love to me, so the consideration of our Friendships seemed to establish such an obligation upon me for the future, that as I communicate occurrences answering our mutual desires, so to observe unto you, as a'most dear friend, my sense and griefe in instan∣ces of contrary effects. I am truly of opinion that the figure I make in this Republick, implyes a duty of studying, all •…•… can, the comon Repose of the protestants in particular. Which heightens our concernednesse so much the more, when we hear of the battails and mutuall slaughters acted by those of Bremen and Sweedland upon each other. I am, in the first place sorry to see both our friends ingaged in such bloody differences, so much to the hazard of the Intrest of the protestant Religion; Next that peace of 52. which was believed to be a main Bulwarke to all reformed Churches, should prove the cause of such an uhappy 〈◊〉〈◊〉 that the Armes of Sweedland are now employed to destroy those who, for Religion sake, they woud so lately engage in the vigarous defence of: and that

now, at a time, when the Episcopacy is reported to persecute the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 all Germany over, & revive former violences and oppressions upon them. Being therefore informed that the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of Bremen h•…•…d few days Cessation of armes 〈◊〉〈◊〉 it, I cou'd not truly decline the signifing unto your Majesty by this opportunity, how heartily I coud wish, and how earnestly I woud pray the God of peace, that that Truce may end in a happy reconcliation of both Partys, and that things be drawen to a pe∣aceable composure equally conduceing to the advantage of both. To the promotion of which, if your Majesty can judge my endeavour ca∣pable of contributing oug•…•…t, I do promise, and freely tender the same, as in apoint of utmost acceptance (without doubt) to God Almighty: And do in the mean time from my hart wish, that God Almighty may direct and steer all Your Majesty Councills, to the publick advantage of Chri∣stendom; a prayer which I doubt not but may 〈◊〉〈◊〉 with your owne in∣clination too.

Whitehall October 26, 16545.

Your Majestys most affectionately. OLIVER Protector of the Repnblick of England.

To the most Magnificent and Noble Magistrates and Senators of Bremen.

I do, with so much the more 〈◊〉〈◊〉 and griefe of mind, see by the ac∣count brought me by Henry Oldenburgh your Envoy, the difference ari∣sen between your Corporation and your most potent neighbour, and the extremity which you are thence reduced unto, by how much I love and respect the Citty of Bremen for her affection to the Orthodox Religion beyond others; nor do I entertaine any thing more in my wishes, then that the universall name of the Protestants may at length be cemented in∣to a brotherly Union and Concord▪ That the comon Enemy of the Reformation does, in the mean space, rejoyce at these our contentions, & promote th•…•…m the more violently abroad, is a thing most certaine. But the controversy it selfe, as it is not the matter now to be debated, I pray God that the progress therefore already made towards a peace, may determine happily. I have, according to you desires, writ to the King of Sweedland touching this matter, sollicitting him to peace and Con∣cord, as a thing of utmost acceptance to God, and acted freely and as

Iough in a thing of th•…•…r piety, and ofter it as my opinion that it is not 〈◊〉〈◊〉 viseable for you to stand off, bat bear an affectionat inclination to any conditions of peace that are truly honourable. Comending you and your Citty, in the mean time, to Gods Tuition an Providence.

Whitehall October 26. 1654.

Your highnesses most aff ection ally O Protector, &c

OLIVER, Protector of the Republick of England, to themost 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Prince Tarentine.

YOur affection to Religion, made apparent in Your Letters to me, together with Your extraordinary piety, and singular love to the reformed Church's; more especially the nobility and generosity of the manner wherein; and that in a Government, wherein so many of the Nobi∣lity dissenting from theProtestant Faith, receive such plentiful encourage∣ments of preferment, w•…•…ile on the other hand, such as adhere thereto, are, for that very reason, exposed to proportionable inconveniencies; are instan∣ces that have filled me with very much content and pleasure. Nor has it proved lesso delightful to me to have pleased You, by being of that Reli∣gion, which is the inducement which principally ought to endear and render you a Subject fit for my esteeme. But as to what you mention con∣cerning what the Churches may hope or expect from me, I pray God I may be able to answer the same, one time or other, if they need it, and let the World see how I stand inclined towards it; For I should not truly judge my selfe better rewarded in any thing ariseing from the station I hold in this my Republicke, then to be able to promote the Intrest, sa∣fety, and (which exceeds all) the repaire of the reformed Churches. Let me therefore earnestly desire that the piety and affection with which You professe the Orthodox Faith, transmitted unto You from Your Ances∣tors, be to the end steddily and constantly adhered unto. Nor will there be any thing more truly worthy both Your selfe, and Your most Religi∣ous progeny, nor ought wherein I can wishingly expresse my gratitude in better and clearer acknowledgments of Your Obligations upon me, (al∣beit I wish all things well for Your sake) then to compose and accommo∣date Your selfe so, as that the Churches, (those of Your Countrey more especially, under whose Discipline You have had so 〈◊〉〈◊〉 a 〈◊〉〈◊〉 and

education) may, in you, sensibly find a protection proportionable to those Merits, wherein you exceed others.

Whitehall April 1655.

OLIVER, Protector of the Republick of England to the most Serene Prince Emanuel, Duke of Savoy, Prince of Piedmont, greeting.

Most Serene Prince.

WEE are, by letters sent us from Geneva, as well as Delphin, and many other places bordering upon your Confines, informed of a proclamation lately published by your Royall Highnesse, implying that if such of your Subjects, as were Professors of the Protestant Religion, did not, within three dayes after the publication thereof, either declare their renunciation of their owne, and acceptance of the Popish Religion they were strictly charged to forsake their Lands and habitations, within twenty days after upon paine of forfeiting their lives and fortunes: And that haveing thereupon made humble supplication to your Royall High∣nesse, praying that the same might be repealed, and that they, (taken into former favour) migt be restored to the Priviledges granted 'em by your most Serene Predecessors; yet they were sett upon by part of your Army, who cruelly murthered many, chain'd others▪ and drove the rest into wildernesses, and uninhabited mountaines covered with Snow and de∣solation, where hundreds of Familys are reduced to that extremity, that it is much to be fear'd whether their misery may not be such, as may soone draw utter Ruine upon them, under the oppression of Cowld and hunger. Upon our Receipt of this account, we coud not truly decline our being troubled at hart, at so unhear'd of a calamity imposed upon these most af∣flicted people. But as we owne our selves united to them, not onely as men, but (in communion of Religion) altogether related as Brethren also. We judged our selves imperfect in the discharge of our duty to God, the charity due to our Brethren, and our profession to Religion it selfe, did we barely pity this calamity and misery of our Brethren, without apply∣ing all the further endeavour we cou'd, towards the meeting 'em with Reliefe against so many unexpected mischiefs. Wee do therefore, in the first place pray and beseech your Royal Highness with all imaginable earnestnesse, to incline your heart to the continueing to your Subjects

at Piedmont, those Institutions granted, and from time to times conf•…•…irmed unto them by your most serene Predecessors. In the allowance and con∣•…•… of which, as thoir Grants were, without doubt, conformable to Gods owne approvall (who has decreed and appropriated unto him∣selfe onely, the inviolable Goverment and Jurisdiction of Soules) so there was also due regard held (doubtless) to their meritts, who, in time of warr, were found equally positive in their loyalty and courage, and of peace, subjects suitably obedient to Goverment. And as your Royal Highnesse in all other things bravely and gloriously accomplished, has pursued directly the paterne of your Forefathers, so we do again and again beseech, that you woud not begin to act the contrary in this; but that this proclamation, and if their be any other demand made use of, to interrupt your Subjects, upon the score of their professing the Reformed Religion, be abolished; they restored to their native Country and ha∣bitations; their former Rights and libortys ratified unto 'em; their su∣stain'd damages repaired; and that you cause all their vexations to be drawen to an end. Which if your Royall Highness will See done, you will act a thing of utmost acceptance to God, raise and comfort those miserable and calamitous peopl•…•…, win the good opinion both of all your Neighbours, and those who admire the Reformed Religion, and more 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Ours, who shall looke upon your kindness and clemency to them as the essectof this our Request. Which will draw us under an obliga∣tion o makeing all suitable Returnes; and lay a most solid found•…•…tion not onely of an alliance and friendship to be raised, but improved upon, be∣tween this Goverment and yours. Nor do we truly entertaine a cheaper opinion of your Justice and moderation of mind in this case. To the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of whom, that Almighty God may incline your disposition and thoughts: and do heartily wish both your selfe and people, peace, truth, and a happy •…•…ssue in all your affairs.

Whitehall May 1655.

OLIVER, P. of the Republick of England To the most Serene Prince 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Transsilvania, greeting.

Most Serene Prince.

YOur Letters of the 16. of December 1654. whom this brings You an account of our receipt of, have shewen Us, the singular love

and affection You bear Us; Your Envoy who brought and delivered e'm haveing declared at large Your ambition of contracting a fellowship and alliance with this Government. It did not truly please us in any small degree, to meet with this occasion of declareing and demonstrateing all we can, our inclination towards You, and how much we ought to va∣lue that of Your Highnesses. But considering that the account, which we have had of Your clear Obligations upon, and undertaking for the welfare of the Christian Republick, hitherto unknown unto us other∣wise then by report, and that all these, besides what You designe further to be concerned in, either for the defence or promotion of the Christian Interest, are come confirmed in the letters which Your 〈◊〉〈◊〉 ness has been so friendly pleased to send Us: The same have plenti•…•…ully added to our satisfaction: Namely that it has been Gods pleasure to have raised in those Countrys, so powerful and worthy a Minister, to the service of his Providence and Glory; who notwithstanding the efficacy of his owne power and Arms, desires to joyne with Us for the Defence of the Pro∣testant Religion, now groaning under the oppression and design of all hands. But God, whose providence has inspired us both (albeit at this di∣stance) with the same inclination and disposition towards the support of the Orthodox Religion, he will doubtless become our Author in such future Resolutions, as may enable Us to be in, and among our selves as wel as all other Protestants and Corporations, a considerable Reliefe & advantage, in a matter of this consequence, as being truly bent upon all opportunity administred by God, which we shall not, thro the good help of the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 God, decline the doing our part in the improvement of. We cannot in the mean time, without very great griefe observe unto Your Highnesse, with what inclemency the Duke of Savoy persecutes such of his Subjects, as (inhabitingabout the Alps) professe the Protestant Religion, and whom he has not onely 〈◊〉〈◊〉 as many of, as denyed to embrace the Roman Religion; to quit their nature Country and abandon all their Possessions▪, but also set upon them with his Forces, who ex∣posed many to most cruel murthers, dispatched others with barbarous and invented Tortures, and drove great Multitudes of 'em into the mountains, there to be consumed with hunger and cowld, having sett fire to their Houses, and goods, (if these Butchers did chance to leave any unplunderd for want of conveyance.) And are very apt to believe that Your Highnesse could not decline being much dis∣pleased at so great a cruelty, when first you heard it, (which I presume may be some time past,) and that you did what you could towards the Re∣liefe

& assi•…•…tance of those miserable wretches, if inhuman Murthers and Miseries have left any surviveing. We have writ to the Duke of Savoy to divert his Rage from off his People; as also the King of France, that he might do so too; together, with the neighbouring Protestant Princes▪ to let them understand how we resented so inhumane an instance of cruelty: Which albeit it was begun upon these needy wretches, yet its designe see∣mes to extend to all that are of the same Judgment in Religion: And so heightens the necessity conveyed unto them so much the mor•…•…, of taking care of ▪hemselves, and consulting the welfare of all their Friends: Which pursuant to that light, which God has inspired us with, shall al∣ways be the very levell of our pursuit. A thing Your Highness may de∣pend upon the sincerity of, as that of our love and affection wherewith we heartily wish you a properous issue in all things; Praying that all Your Enterprises and Approaches towards the asserting the Li∣berty of the Gospel and its adherents may determine happily.

Whitehall, May 1655.

OLIVER, Protector, &c. To the most Serene Prince Charles Gustavus Adolphus, King of Sweedland, Greeting.

YOur Majesty has ere this (and to Your great trouble we presume) had an account of that most bitter Proclamation, reported to have b•…•…en lately published, whereby the Duke of Savoy has afflicted to the marrow, such of his Subjects inhabiting about the Alpes, as stile themselves Re∣formed Protestants, and directed, that if in case they did not renounce their owne, and embrace the Roman Catholick Religion within twenty dayes, they should be rooted out of their Native Country & habitations, so that after the murther of many, the rest plunder'd & exposed to invented Deaths, they wander now with their Wives, and small Children over the wild Mountains in a continual Winter, Consum'd wit•…•… hunger and cowld. For the universall hatred of the contrary party, even unto all Protestants, Demonstrates that albeit they differ in some frivolus things among them∣selves, their cause and intrest yet in the main ought to be the same, and almost one. And there is none but knowes, that how, upon all occasi∣ons, the Kings of Sweedland have joyned with the Reformed, and powred their Forces into Germany to defend without distinction the

Protestant Religion there: Wee therefore (and that with more then ordinary earnestnesse) pray that Your Majesty would in the first place (if You have not already done it in imitation of Us and other Protestant Re∣publicks) write to the Duke of Savoy, concerning this matter, and endeavour to reverse (if it be possible) by the interposition of Your Autho∣rity) the severitd of this so cruel a proclamation, from off of a People, that are innocent as well as religious: For these so cruel beginnings what do they mean, what may they threaten Us all; is a thing which we judge very unnecessary to advise Your Majesty of. If this man will sligth all our prayers to gratify his owne peevish humour, truly we shall, after haveing first con•…•…ulted with Your Majesty and the rest of the Prote∣stant Princes (as we ought •…•…f, there be any obligation▪ any love or commu∣nity of Religion to be regarded or observed) fix upon some speedy resolu∣tion that may serve timelily to prevent the miserable destruction of a mul∣tude of our most innocent Brethren destitute of all help. Which as vve do not in the least question to have beeu Your Majesties sense, and resolution too, nothing can, in our opinion, be more adviseable in this point, than that vve all, vvithout the least losse of time, unite our povver, Council, Purses, and if there be any thing else that can be judged to stop the further gro•…•…vth of this evil. In the mean time we heartily recommend Your Majesties to the Tuitionof the most great omnipo∣tent God.

OLIVER Protector of the Republick of England▪ to the high and mighty Lords, the States Generall of the united Provinces.

RUmor, and the frequent advices and Tideings which letters bring you from your correspondents abroad, have ere this we judge, infor∣med you of the Duke of Savoy{us}s late proclamation issued against such un∣der his subjection about the Alpes, as have been antient professors of the Protestant Religion, by verture of which proclamation, they, unlesse they embrace the Roman Catholick Religion •…•…ithin twenty da•…•…s, are comanded to quit their Lands and houses, being first stript of all they have besides. •…•…nd with what cruelty the Authority •…•…f t•…•…at Edict has ty∣ranyzed over inocent persons, and (which very much concernes us) our helplesse friends, and Brethren in Christ. Many of them being destroyed

by a Limb of his forces appointed to that purpose, the rest plundred & forc't from home, so that they, with their wives and smalle Ones, have been for some time, driven into the roughest of mountains covered with continual snow, where they now labour under the oppression of hun∣ger & cowld. But your concernednesse whereat, & how you Symphathy∣zed these calamities of our Brethren, is a thing we can easily gues•…•… at by our own griefe which is truly very great. For we that are but One (as it were) in point of Religion, why should not we be equally such in our concernednesse at so unworthy a misuseage of our Brethren? And truly many are the experiences of your apparent piety to the Ortho∣dox people in times of oppression, and no lesse favourable to many Ec∣clesiasticall difficultys and adversitys, As for my part, I had, (if I know my owne mind,) rather been outon in any thing elce, then in love and charity to Brethren labouring under affliction and persecu∣tion, upon the account of their Religion: For that I would freely give way to the health & repose of the Church, in preferrence to my owne par ticular safety. What we coud therefore hitherto act in it, was to writ to the Duke of Savoy, almost humbly praying him to entertain milder thoughts and disposition towards these his most inocent subjects and humble people; that he woud restore the wretches to their homes and Estates, and put them in possession of their former liberty of Religion. We did the like to the chiefest of the Protestant Princes and Magistrates, whom we judged it most concerning, to joine with us in our Mediation with the Duke of Savoy on behalfe of this people. You have done the same perhaps & more. For if this so dangerous example succeeds with the Instruments concerned, and this Revivall of their late cruelty upon the Protestants thrives with them, to admonish your prudence how farr the same may endanger the Protestant Intrest, is a thing we judge uunecessary▪ And this person, if he suffers himselfe to be perswaded by our united im∣portunitys and prevailed with to give over, we shall reape a Noble and plentifull crop, and Recompence from our susteind care; But if we shoud find him wilfull so as to endeavour to bring into utter dispair, or destroy totally those, who with their owne strength, and (free from corruption,) have either preserved our Religion delivered by the o∣riginall Preachers of the Gospell, or long before it was restored to its primitive purity in all other Nations, Wee are ready to joine with you and the rest of our Reformed Brethren and confederates, in a comon Councill, whereby the support of the sincking just, may be, with most in∣conveniency

provided for, and let him at length see how impossible it is for us to put up the Injuries and burthensome afflictions of the pro∣testants. Fare yee well.

To the Evangelicall Cantons of Svvitzerland.

YOu have, ere we had it, doubtlesse, an account of that calamity which those of our Religion about Piedmont, were lately exposed unto, who, being under the allegiance and subjection of the Duke of Sa∣voy, were by their own Prince's prolam•…•…tion▪ strictly comanded to forsake their Native habitations, if th•…•…t in three days they gave not satisfaction of their Turning to the Roman Religion, and thereupon soone set upon with Arms, and destroyed by the forces of their said Duke: many also driven into banishment, do now with their wives and children, wander most miserably over the deserted mountains loaded with Snow &c. where they are ready to perish under the afflictions of hunger, cowld, naked∣nesse & want of places of habitation There is lesse reason why we shoud doubt of your being equally troubled at your first receipt of these Ty∣deings, and it may be more, proportionable to your Neernes to them in point of Neighbourhood in excess of us. For your singular affection to the O•…•…hodox faith, and great Stedd•…•…nesse in adhereing as well to, as resolution in defending it, is a thing we very well know you to be inferiour to none in. Therefore as yee are in the str ct∣est comunion of Religion Brethren unto, or rather incorporated with these wretches equall with us; of which Body not one Member can suffer affl•…•…ction without the sense, t•…•…e smart, the detriment, and the hasard of the whole: wee have thought fit to write and signify unto you, how much we judge it concerning us all to help, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 comfort (all we can) & that in a comon, •…•…id and assistance; the want and distresse of our Brethren; and make timely provision for the removeing not onely their mischiefess and misfort•…•…es, but also stopping the further growth of any danger, which (by example or chance may be created us▪ Wee likewise writ to the Duke of Savoy, earnestly intreating, that he vvoud out of his clemency, treat his most fa thfull people more gently, and that he vvou•…•… restore •…•…em already almost destroyed, to their goods and 〈◊〉〈◊〉. And do very vvell 〈◊〉〈◊〉 that these our letters, or rather the joint importunity of this Nation may easily induce a most Glorious Prince to listen to vvhat

we have, with so much Toyle, petitioned him for. But if he should happen to persist, we are ready to joine advice with you, concerning a meanes to be fixed upon, for the preservation of soe many most inocent Persons, labouring under the yoake of so m•…•…ny oppressions and vexati∣ons; comfort and bear up our most dear Brethren in Christ, and pro∣tect them from most exquisit and unworthy ends. Whose health and sa∣fety your piety leads (lam confident) very much to study the preservation of: For my part I woud neglect my owne most important concernes, yea my life, to make way for it. Adieu.

Westminster May 19. 1655.

OLIVER Protector.

To the most Illustrious and Noble Lords the Councills and Senators of the Protestant and confederat Townes of Switzerland. greeting.

To the most Serene and potent Prince Lewis, King of France.

YOur Majesties letters in answer to mine of the 25. of May, plainly shew how little I was mislead by that opinion I entertained that those late most inhumane slaughters and barbarous butchery, comitted by certain squadrons of your Army, upon the persons of such in the Duke of Savoy's Country, as professe the protestant Religion, vvere not the effects either of your direction or Comand, and am exceeding gladd truly of your haveing so timelyly signified unto your Comanders (vvho un∣bidd committed these inhumane outrages pursuant to the dictates of their ovvne inclinations) hovv much the same displeas•…•…d your Majesty, and the notice you tooke of so great a Cruelty to the Duke of Savoy him∣selfe, and vvithall your haveing vvith so much sincerity and humanity interposed and employed your Intrest, friendshipp and povver for the bringing back those miserable banished people, to the place vvhere they vvere driven from, and might vvell expect that that Prince vvond have done some thing at the desire and request of your Majesty. But ap∣prehending that yours, nor the sollicitation and pressure of other Prin∣ces, can no vvay incline him in favour of the distressed, I hold it consi∣stent vvith the duty of my province, to depute this noble person under the

character of our Embassadour extraordinary to the Duke of Savoy, to tell him plainly, how I take his useage of the Protestants, thô for no other reason, then out of detestation to the Religion it selfe. And do truly hope, that the account which this Embassy comes to, may prove so much the more succesfull, if Your Majesty will be pleased to ad∣hibit a fresh, and with more Instance, your Authority to, and endeavour in the thing. And as your Majesty has undertaken unto that Prince, for their future fidelity and Obedience to Government, so be pleased to make some provision likewise sor their safety and security, against any the like Injuries, and most cruel affronts, that may be offer'd for the future, to the Inocent and peaceable: This, as it is in it selfe an act of Justice, and truly becoming Majesty, and no lesse suitable to your benignity and Mercy, who secures the peace and safety of such of your owne Subjects in all places, as profess that Religion, so we canot in any reason decline the expectation of, from your Majesty, which, in this very worke, will make a thro conquest over the harts of all the Protestants inhabiting your owne Dominions, who in times of difficulty, have been already found of unexceptable affection and loyalty towards you, as well as shevv your Neighbours, that Royall Councill has no vvay abetted to this Mischiefe, whatever Royall Ministers and Magistrates might presume to have done: Especially if your Majesty exacts due punishment, to be examplified upon those Captains and Officers, who, pursuant to their owne Wills and Pleasures, have dared to be the Actors of such inhumane villanys, In the mean time, when your Majesty will thinke fit to shew your aver∣snes to the detestation this deserves, I do not doubt but that your King∣dome may, by your allowance, become a reception and secure re∣fuge to those miserable and distressed People, when their address shall seeme to call for't, nor that you will suffer, that any of your Subjects give the Duke of Savoy any assistance to their prejudice. What we have to add, is to assure your Majesty how much I esteeme your friendship: To the improvement of which I assert to be wanting neither in faith nor •…•…ndeavour.

I am your Majesty's most affectionatly OLIVER, Protector of the Republick of England.

Whitehall July 29. 16•…•…5.

To his Excellency Cardiual Mazarine.

Most eminent Lord Cardinall.

Upon my resolveing to send the bearer with Letters (whereof the in∣closed is a Copie) to the King, I did then direct him to accost your Eminency in my Name, and committed some things to his Trust, to be comunicated to you in particular: Wherein I desire your Excel∣lency to give him full Credit, as being a person in whom I have reposed very great confidence.

Whitehall July 29. 1655.

Your Eminency's most affectionatly OLIVER, Protector of the Republick of England, &c.

OLIVER, Protector &c, to the most Serene Prince Frederick the 3. King of Denmarke, Norway, &c greeting.

YOur Majesty has (erè this we judge, and that as much to your griefe as becomes a champion and a Protestant Prince,) had an ac∣count of the unmercifull proclamation lately published by Imanuel, Duke of Savoy, for the overthrow of his own Subjects, inhabiting about the Alpes, inocent People and men of note and Renowne, and that for the sincerity of their Zeale to the true Protestant Religion, for many yeares past; haveing driven them out of their native Land, out of detestation to their Faith, and after butchering many, expos•…•…d the rest, (needy naked, and lo•…•…ded with all other miserys) unto all the mischiefs and hardships, which those desered mountains usually administer. If the principles of Christianity layes an obligation upon us in generall to resent or Sympathize the sufferings of any particular scan•…•…leing thereof, we do not, if well acquainted with your piety & prudence, know of any that can clearlyer foresee what danger the example and consequence of this Fact bespeakes us all, as well as the protestant Intrest, then your selfe. Wee have therefore exercised all freedome in our letters, to let you know, that however you resent this calamity of our most inocent bre∣thren, what opinion or judgment we expect you may entertaine of it, the same shoud be a paterne for our imitation. And, for that reason,

have writ to the Duke of Savoy, where we earnestly prayed, that he wou'd treat the poore and meeke more spareingly, and prevent the said bloody proclamation's being of any further Force. Which if your Ma∣jesty and the rest of the Protestant Princes, have imitated, or otherwi•…•…e perform'd, (as we believe you have,) it is to be hoped, that the most Serene Duk's, fury may be allayed, and this his Rage appeased, at the intercession and Instance of so many Neighbouring Princes at least. But if he will rather choose to continue his resolution, we declare our ready∣nesse to joine with your Majesty, & the rest of our Confederats (concern'd for the •…•…ntrest of the Protestant Religion,) in such a resolution as may pro∣vide for their speedy Reliefe, srom their distresse, and do what we can for their sasety and Liberty. Our prayers, in the mean time, bespeake your Majesty all health and happynesse.

Westminster May 1655.

OLIVER Protector &c. To the most Noble Magistrates and Senators of Geneva.

OUr Letters lately send you to shoud have intimated the very great griefe conveyed unto us from the vast, and unheard of calamitys, to which the Duke of Savoy has exposed the Protestants, inhabiting in, and about the Vallyes of Piedmont, did we not then make it more our businesse, to let you know, that we were not onely concern'd at such their miserys, as it was our care to provide (all we could) for their re∣liefe and comfort. Wherefore we have caused a Collection to be levyed over all this Republick: which we justly expect may prove such, as may expresse the passionat affection, which this Land bear to their Brethren' in time of such most inhumane persecution. And as we are One in point of Religion, so we ought to admit of a fellowfeeling of their Cala∣mityes. In the meane time, while the Collection is a raising, which will take up time; And considering that their want and helplessnes canot admit of any delay; we have judged it necessary to transmit (with all imaginable speed, to be, before hand, distributed among'em, who shall appear most to need present help & comfort) the present sum: of 2000. li: But in as much, as wee know, how much the miserys and Injurys done Inocencyl, affect you, and that you will looke upon nothing either pain∣full or troublesome, that may tend to their help and assistance, we

have ventured the transmitting the said sume to you, to be distributed among these calamitous people, and give you the trouble of considering in your piety and prudence, of the justest method, pursuant to vvhich, that money may be soonest disposed of among the needyest of those peo∣ple, And albeit the sume is truly small, Yet some vvhat it may be at least tovvards their present Ease and refreshment, till vve grovv able to enlarge our charity by sending them a greater sume: And as vve doubt not of your accepting of this employment in good part, so vve pray the Omnipotent Great God to furnish his ovvne Protestant people vvith the courage of desending each other in common, and of being a mutuall assistance to each other, against the barbarity of their enemy; vvherein vve shoud be gladd, that our endeavour might be of any use to the ser∣vice of the Church. Adieu.

Fifteen hundred pounds of the said sume of two thousand re∣mitted by Gerard Hensh to Paris, the other five hun∣dred shall be taken care of, by Master Stoupely in bills of exchange.

OLIVER, Protector of England, &c. To the most Serene Prince Duke, of Venice.

Most Serene Prince.

As we have been always found manifest 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of your Outdoing your Enemys, in Instances 〈◊〉〈◊〉 to the promotion of the Chri∣stain Interest more particularly, so now more especially, at the tydeing of the late Sea-battle which we no way repine at the success of, altho it see∣mes (as we are inform'd) to have happend some thing to the detriment of our people. For certain of our Traders▪ namely William, and Daniel Williams with Edward Beale Merchants, have, by petition, humbly represented unto us, that a ship of theirs called the Great Prince, em∣ployed for their account to Constantinople, was there ptessed by the Grand Signeur's Ministers, and employed to transport Provision and Soldiers to Crete, in which constrain'd Service vvhile sailing, vvas, among others of the Turcks Fleet, vvhich happend to engage vvith the Venetians, taken, carryed to Venice, and by the Gourt of Admiralty there, condemn'd to the use of the publicke. As the said shipp therefore vvas,

contrary to the approvall and knowledge of her Owners, forc't into the Turcks Service, and that he cou'd not disintangle himselfe, out of the 〈◊〉〈◊〉, being loaded with Soldiers, we earnestly intreat Your Serenity to repeal, (out of regard to 〈◊〉〈◊〉 alliance) the sentence of that admiralty Court, and take care of the restitution of the said shipp (haveing no way deserved ill of your Republick), to her Owners. The allowance of which we have no reason to dispair 〈◊〉〈◊〉 obtain (atour request especially) when we find the Merchants themselves entertain so good an opinion of your Clemency: And therefore hartily recommend your great Councills and the affairs of Venice both by sea and Land, to the happy guidance of God Almighty. I am

Westminster, 1655.

Your Serenity's, and the Republick of Venice's very affectionately. OLIVER Protector.

OLIVER, Protector of the Comonwealah of England, to the most Serene Prince, Lewis King of France.

Most Serene King.

SAmuel Mico, William Coran, George Poyner, with severall others of 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Merchants have shewed us by their humble petition, that they, in the year 1650. 〈◊〉〈◊〉 on board a certain shipp called the Unicorne a very considerable part of their Estates, and that the same Shipp, with her feight of raw silcks, Oyles and other goods (amounting, by their Estimate, to no lesse then four and thirty thousand pounds sterling) was, by two of your Men of Warr, set upon and taken in the •…•…∣ranea Sea: that Our Subjects wou'd not, out of regard to the peace that was then between the English and the french, make any violent defence, but referr to the maritime Laws, as being induced thereto by the promisses of Paul & Terrer, the Comanders of the said Men of Warr, who engaged to dismisse the shipp upon peruseall of her bills of loading: That the said Merchants employd moreover, & sent into france an attorney to sollicit the restitution of the said ship and Goods: where after, the expence of three yeares and more, when matters were brought to that maturity, as that there was nothing 〈◊〉〈◊〉 to be done but to award sentence for resti∣tution

his Emenency Cardinall Mazarine owned unto Hugh Morelly their Attorny, that the Merchants had wrong done 'em; and under∣tooke that they shou'd have satisfaction done 'em as soone ever, as the peace between both nations, and the alliance then under Treaty was ended and ratified: Yea his Excelleecy the Lord de Bordeaux your Maje∣sties Embassadour has lately confirmed the same, in express words, pursuant to your Majesties comands, seconded by those of the Councill, and that the said shipp and Goods and the peculiar demurr, under which they lay, shoud be taken into consideration, a part from those other controversys provided for the decision of, by the generall Import of the Treaty. Of which promise the said Embassadour him selfe, who by good luck has repaired home upon occasions of his owne, can bear Testimo∣ny. Upon the allowance of such strong presumptions, and that the Right of these Merchants in the repetition of their Goods, lies so clear, It's our earnest request to your Majesty, that they be put off no longer, and that you woud be pleased (at our Instance▪) to render your compli∣ance herewith the leading fruits of the Treaty lately revived, and re∣stablish't. Which wee confide in the effect of: wishing that the Omni∣potent Great God may influence your selfe and Kingdome with all ima∣ginable felicity.

Westminster December 1655.

Your Majesties most affectionatly OLIVER Protector of England, &c.

To the Evangelicall Cantons of Svvitzerland.

THE account transmitted unto us from our Commissioners at Ge∣nova concerning your publick proceedings, as well as the sub∣stance of your Letters of the 27. of December from Tigur, sufficiently informe us in the posture of your affaires (being none of the best we doubt:) wherein albeit we apprehend, (to our trouble) that your peace, & so long continued collaterall alliance is dissolved into a Rupture, yet no∣thing appearing applicable to your fault, the Iniquity & perversnesse of your Enemys may (we doubt not) furnish you with an opportunity of re∣peating your knowne disposition & constancy to the Protestant Religion. For the Swi•…•…zers▪ who condemn (for Traytors any who turne to our Re∣ligion, what have they attempted, what have their practises been, to raise

malitious spirits against the Orthodox Faith; is a thing that can escape the knowledge of none, who has not totally forgot that most unworthy Mas∣sacre comitted upon our Brethren at Piedmont. Wherefore, dearest Friends, forget not your former wont, rouse up in Gods Name, yeeld not your Reights, Friends, your Liberty of Conscience, and conscience it selfe to be trampled in the dirt, under the heels of incroaching Idola∣trous; Prepare your selves therefore, that you may not seeme to looke like Men, who cared not how the World went, so they themselves were well, but such as reckon the sufferings of their Neighbours their Owne, especially theirs of Piedmont; help and comfort those most distressed People all you can: Assureing your selves that your own sides were dart∣ed at, and their deaths and blood made but an Inled of, to reach you. As for my part, know, that your safety and prosperity, are no lesse the Subject of my care and trouble, than if this Massacre had been execu∣ted within the Bowels of this Republick and, as if the Switzers Axes and Drawen Swords (as they truly are against all Protestants) were ready to fall upon our own Necks. No sooner had we therefore had an account of your condition, & the virulency of your Enemys, but we presently en∣tred into a strict consultation with persons of very great worth, & knowne piety and affection to the Church, in order to the makeing such provi∣sion for your subsistence, as the posture of our owne affairs at home cou'd bear, and came to such a determination, as you may know from our Co∣missary Mr Pell. What I have to add is the continuance of our petiti∣ons to Almighty God that he wou'd be pleased to stand by, and guide all your councills, and take under his more particular conduct, and defend by peace or warr (which he thinkes most adviseable) this your most just Cause.

Westminster January 1655.

Yours &c. most affectionatly OLIVER Protector of the Republick of England, &c.

OLIVER, P. of the Republick of England, To the most Serene Prince Charles Gustavus, by the Grace of God, King of Sweedland, Gothes, and Vandalls, Great Prince of Finland, &c.

Most Serene Prince.

AS it is a custome of knowne antiquity, especially among friends, to admit of an obligation of useing all freedome in communicateing to each other, passages of adversity as well as prosperity and comunity, so that most delightfull part of friendship relateing to the import of the Letters, which Your Majesty has been pleased to give us the honour of, is what we cannot but take very kindly: Seeing that it is an indication of singular humanity, and true Royalty, to be as communicable in en∣joyments, as way of liveing, and to believe nothing to be pleasant, without it be in community with Friends and Confederates▪ And there∣fore cannot but justly rejoyce at the birth of a young Prince to his Son, to inherit (we hope) the glory and vertue of so good a King, and gladly lay it in parallel with the felicity, and glory that befell Philip of Macedone both abroad and at home, whom Records cite to have conquer'd the most powerful Greeks, at the very time of the birth of his Son Alexander. For we do not doubt, but that Your kindness to Poland in dischargeing, and▪ as it were, forceing it by the very strength of Your Army, from the papall •…•…oke▪ and the establishment of that Peace with Brandenburgh; which the desires of all pious men gaped for, notwitstanding the storming opposition made to the contrary, may conduce very considerably to the peace and advantage of the Church. That God may, in the mean time bless such Glorious Beginings with suitable Issues; that his Gift of a Son may pursue the patern of his Father in Piety, Vertue, and noble Deeds: That which we truly both hope, and from our hearts wish the Omnipotent and Great God, (always favourable to Your undertakings) may grant.

Westminster, 1655.

Your Majesties most affectionally, OLIVER, Protector of England, &c.

To the King of Denmarke.

Most Serene and potent Prince.

JOhn Freeman and Phillip Traverse Subjects of this Republick, have, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 their owne, and the names of severall other Merchants of London a petition'd humbly complain'd, that haveing in the month of Octo∣ber 1653. loaded on board a certain ship of Sunderbrugh called the Salva∣dor, Nicolas Winskins Master, severall Merchandizes, woolen manufacture, Cloathes, and other woven comodities and Goods, amounting (according to Estimate) to the value of between three and foure thousand pounds ster∣ling, charged the said Master, that as he sailed thro the Baltique sea, he shoud go directly to Dantzick, and pay the usuall duty at Elsenor, and for the same purpose furnished him with a competent sume of mo∣ney. Yetnotwithstanding, t hat the said master most treacherously, and contrary to his Instructions from the Merchants, pass'd by the said place, without dischargeing that duty; so that the said ship, with her whole loading, had hue and Cry sent after them and were arrested, to the great damage of the Owners, in favour of whom we writ to your Majesties Embassadour then here in London, who, as they say, engaged, that as soone as he came to speake with your Majesty, he woud endeavour to 〈◊〉〈◊〉 justice done the Merchants. But in as much as the said person has been dispatched upon Your Majesties affaires into other Countryes, and that their application to him before his departure, amounted to nothing; so that they were forc't to sen'd an Atturney purposely to sollicit their Right at Hafnia, and demand restitution of said shipp and Goods: which they also found coud amount to no more then an aggravation of the for∣mer Reckoning & heape of fruitless trouble upon trouble; & that the said Goods Ly under confiscation & present Restraint, notwithstanding that, according to the Laws of Denmarke, a Master of a ship ought, (as they seeme to urge in their petition upon any misdedmeanour of his own) to suffer corporall punishment, exclusive to any confiscation that shipp or Merchandises can be pretended to be liable unto: and reckon themselves so much the unkindlyer dealt with all, for that the custome which ought to be paid at Essen'or, is (as we apprehend) very inconsiderable. Therefore as our Merchants have given no provocation, that can be in∣terpreted to the rendering their effects liable to forfeiture; and that the Master, a little before his death, confessed that the neglect was wholly applicable to his proper guilt, which exposed the Merchants to so 〈◊〉〈◊〉

damage; and in as much as the Parent of the deceased Master himselfe▪ has, as we understand, by petition already presented unto Your Majesty, charged all the blame to his son's account, and quitted the Merchants: Wee coud not truly decline our condemning the detention of the said 〈◊〉〈◊〉 and goods to be most arbitrary; and are so much the more strength∣en'd in our confidence, that as soone as your Majesty has a clear State of this thing, you will not onely award a competent reproofe to the Mini∣sters concernd in these Injuryes, but Issue your comands also for the doing the Mercha•…•…ts Right, and direct speedy restitution to be made of those Goods and reparation of damages sustaind, to the said Owuers or As∣fignes. Which we instantly pray your Majesties compliance in, as a thing guarded with so much reason and justice, that we canot appear in the sollicitation of ought on behalfe of our people, which we lesse ought to accept of a denyall in, as being ready to make suitable returnes on behalfe of your Subjects as often as there is like occasion for't.

To the most Serene Prince John the 4. King of Portugal.

THE Peace and alliance, which your Majesties most Noble and splen∣did Embassy, lately sent hither, sollicitted the Parliament about, (which then had the conduct of this Republick in their hand) Wee have now at length, thro Gods help, and pursuant to the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 we hold in the Administration of this Goverment, as well as the affection we always bore theteto, drawn unto a happy 〈◊〉〈◊〉, and such (we hope) as may con∣tinue to perpetuity. And therefore returne you Your Ambassader extraor∣dinary, Mr John Roderick de Saa Menesses, Count Pennagavad, a per son whose Civill carriage, understanding, prudence and faithfulnesse, we have found very eminent, and worthy your esteeme, and one who ha∣veing discharged this Trust with extraordinary applause, comes to you with the Ratification of the said Pe•…•…ce. As to the Import of your letters of the second of April from Lisbona, intimating your good esteem of us, how much you tender our honour, and the excesse of your Gladness•…•… at your •…•…earing of our present undertakeing in this Goverment; the same are apparent indications of singular affection, and shall endeavour that all Men may hereafter see from my readynesse to serve Your Majesty at all times, that the same is of utmost acceptance unto me. Nor am I in the mean time, lesse painfull in the preferrence of my expres prayers to

God for your safety, for the happy State of Your Kingdome, and the prosperity of your affaires.

Your Majestie's most affectionatl•…•… OLIVER, Protector of England, Scotland, Ireland, &c

OLIVER, Protector of the Republick of England to the high and mighty States of Holland, &c.

High and mighty Lords, dearest Friends.

THomas Bushell and Richard Bear, with severall other of our Subjects have made their joint complaint unto us, setting forth, that a shipp of theirs called the Edmond and John did (being set upon in her way between Brasile and 〈◊〉〈◊〉) submit to the assault of a certain Privateor belonging to Vlushing, called the Red Lyon, whose Comander went by the name of Lambert Bartelson, but upon such conditions and Tearmes (〈◊〉〈◊〉 by the said Lamberts hand and seale) as that upon their arri∣vall at Vluissing, restitution shoud be made of such Goods as shoud appear to belong unto the English; That upon their arrivall there, the shipp was acquitted, and the seamen their respective goods restored them, but the Merchants effects taken out, and exposed to imediat sale; That they, namely the Merchants, who had this affront put upon, did, (upon their repair to Vlushing to demand their effects at the Admiralty Court there) after five y•…•…ares expensive prosecution, loose the cause with vast charges thro amost wicked sentence awarded against them, by those Judges, namely they who, concern'd in the said Privateer, were themselves both Juges and Jury in the thing; That they have no other hope left 'em, except it be in your equity and incorrupted uprightnesse, which they now at length fly unto, whom they judge some reliefe & favour from, if back'd with our 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of their complaint to you. And truly this is a thing pardonable in the people▪ if in so great a hasard of their fortunes as this seemes to be, they, under an uuiversall dread from all hands, consider what they ought to fear from your power and autho∣rity, as wel as what they were to hope from the integrity of Judges espe∣cially in a case where they were themselves 〈◊〉〈◊〉. We do not doubt but that the influence you are under of Religion, Justice and Integrity may, in preferrence to any sollicitation of Ours, become an Incentive to you of comeing to such a determination herein, as you may 〈◊〉〈◊〉 to consist with Equity and justice, and an act that may become you. God preserve

both your selves, and Republick, to t•…•…e service of his Glory, and the comfort of his Church.

Westminster April 1. 1656.

OLIVER, Protector of England, &c.

OLIVER, Protector of the Comonwealth of England. To the most Serene Prince Charles Gustavus King of Sweedland, Gothes, and Vandalls, Great Prince of Finland, Duke of Esthon, Carelia, Bremen, Verda▪ Stetin, Pomerania, Cassubia▪ and Vandalia, Prince of Russia, Lord of Ingry, Wismar; as also Count Pallatine of the Rhine, Bavaria, Jul Cle∣via, and Duke of the Mounains, &c.

Most Serene Prince.

PEter Julius Coitus, haveing discharged his Embassy here, and so discharged it, as that I thought it a thing unfit to dismisse him hence, without, accompanying him with my opinion of his just merits, which he now returnes to your Majesty with; as being a person who, upon your score (who have a just Right to our highest esteeme) was, as (well as for that of his owne meritts) very acceptable unto us, and no lesse praise worthy by the most dilligent discharge of this Trust. Therefore we freely certify (if any Testimony can add thereto) that he has answerd that character which he brought Us, as your Majestys most just gift to him: who may with the same fidelity and integrity relate the singular re∣spect, which we bear towards your Majesty. What we have to add is to breath our wishes to the Omnipotent Great God to bless your Majesty with all prosperity, and continue the influence of your victorys over the enemys of the Church, to perpetuity.

Westminster Aprill 17. 1656.

Your Majestie's most affectionately OLIVER, Protector of the Republick of England, &c.

OLIVER, Protector of the Republick of England. To the most Serene and potent Prince Lewis King of France. S. D.

APplication being by petition made us, in the names of John Dethicke present Lord Mayor of t•…•…is Citty of London, and William Wack∣field

Merchant, setting forth, that haveing about the Calends of the month of October Auno 1649. loaded a certaine shipp called the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of London, one Lig•…•…tbagh Master, the whole freight consisting of their owne proper goods, to be transported to Ostend, the said shipp was seised upon in the mouth of the River of Thames, carryed away, and disposed of at Dunkirk, then under the obedience of the Crowne of France, and that by the contrivance of a certaine Privateer called White belonging to Berkin, who exerciseth piracy, by vertue of a Comission from the son of Charles the late deceased King, contrary to the purport of your Majest•…•…s proclamations published to the contrary Annis 1647. and 1649; besides some resolutions of Councill in favour of the Parlia∣ment of England, whereby they (understanding that the transportation of any Goods, or ships taken from the English, dureing that 〈◊〉〈◊〉, into any place under your Majesties jurisdiction, or suffered to be in any such place exposed to sale was provided against as unlawfull) dispatched Hugh Morrell their solliciter to Dunkirke, with directions to apply to Mr Lestrado Governour of that Citty, and demand restitution of the said shipp and Goods, as knowing that they were in a great measure yet un∣toucht in Towne; who upon such application replyed, not like a gentleman nor one that woud seem to be very observable of the Comands of his prince, that his present employ was a benefit comferr'd upon him in consi∣deration of publick & past services, perform'd in the King of France s Ser∣vice, & that he therefore intended to make as much improvement thereof as he coud (as if comisionated to Robb his neighbours.) Upon which dis∣appointment, the said sollicitour, after a great expence both of money and time, comeing home, the peti•…•…ioners (destitute of all other hopes other then what they imagin'd they might meet with upon appeal to your Ma∣jesties Clemency and Justice, and believing that our recomendatory Letters in their favour might render their access to your Majesty more facile) pray that you woud not decline your help from a people robbed in defiance of all Justice, and in derision of your repeated Comands to the Contrary. Which if obtainable at our importunity; albeit it is truly a thing which seemes ver equitable, yet we shall believe it to be rather the effect of your naturall 〈◊〉〈◊〉 to Justice, then the fruit of my so•…•…licitation.

Westminster May 1656.

Your Majestie's most affectionately OLIVER, Protector of the Republick of England, &c.

OLIVER, Protector of the Republick of England, &c. To the high and mighty Lords, the States General of the United Provinces, S. D.

High and mighty Lords, Dearest Friends,

IOohn Browne, Nicolas Williams, with other Londoners, have in a Petition humbly shewed unto us, that having severally ventured to the East Indies, by the Ship Good Hope of London, then bound thither, directed their Correspondents at Amsterdam, about the Month of Fe∣bruary, 1644. to ensure there two thousand and forty Pounds Flemish: That the said Ship being▪ in her way thither, taken upon the very East India Coast, by a certain Ship, belonging to the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 East India Com∣pany; the Ensurer's denyed to fulfill their Contract in paying the ensu∣red Summe▪ and have so far prevailed, as to be capable, by various de∣lays, to elude our People now after the expensive consumption of Six yeares in prosecution of their Right Which in regard they looke upon as an usage of great oppression and injustice, and that some obliged for the Payment of the Money agreed for, are either already dead, or become insolvent, We earnestly pray that you would (to prevent •…•…urther expen∣ces in addition to the said Losses▪ be pleased to suffer your equity, to be a safe Port and refuge to them after so many Yeares stormy useage, and al∣most Shipwrack in your Court of •…•…udicature; and that Sentence be with all speed awarded concerning their cause, in whose •…•…ustice they seeme very confident. Wishing (in the meane time) that happine•…•…s and prosperity may attend all you undertake, to the Glory of God, & the safety of his Church.

Your High and Mighty Lordships most affectionally, OLIVER, Protector, &c.

OLIVER, Protector of the Commonwealth of England, To the High and Mighty Lords, the States of Holland. S, D.

THomas and William Lower, lawfull Heires of Nicholas Lower, late∣ly deceased, on whose account you have had some former trouble gi∣veu you, (about the •…•…des of September last I thinke,) do bawl now a fresh again, alleadging, that they still labour under the oppression of their Adversaries, who•…•…e power, or other private Intrest has (notwitstanding the integrity of their claimes, and when that coud not doe, our Letters sent in favour of their cause) •…•…o far pre∣vailed, as to hinder them from entering upon the benefit of their Fa∣ther's will: That being rejected by the Court of Holland, where the action first began, and thrown upon yours, pack'd thence to Zee-land, and thence hurryed back again to your high Court of Judicato∣rie (to their content) accompanyed to each place with our Letters (For where the hight and power is, there they depend upon the dispensation of Justice proportionably) If that fails they are at a losse to know where to cast anchor for reliefe after the pains they undertoke in pursuit of Justice: For if they find that this our fourth recomendation of their cause can do no good, it will be to little purpose for 'em to extend their hopes any further. Wee shall reckon it as a true instance of kindnesse, if after so many rejections, you let them see, that your apprehension of our Autho∣rity cou'd contribute somewhat to their Reliefe in bringing their claime to a speedy determination, as well altogether as have them believe it to be the intire effect of your own Justice and equity. As we can no way dis∣pond of your allowance of the former of which, so we are confident that the consideration of our Friendship will incline you to the later.

Your's, &c. OLIVER, Protector.

OLIVER, Protector of the Republick of England, To the most Serene Prince John, King of Portugal.

Most Serene Prince.

WHereas several Merchants, belonging the Brazil Company in Portu∣gal, did in the Yeares 1649. and 1650. becom indebted unto sun∣dry English Merchants, in a considerable Sume of Money, upon the ac∣count of freight and Moorage, & that the said Society respit the Payment thereof, pursuant to an order of your Majesties to that purpose; notwith∣standing that they did truly depend upon the Payment thereof confor∣mable to the Tearmes, and conditions of the league lately ratified: But fear they may be frustrated in their hope, and other meanes of recover∣ing their Right, as being informed of your Majesty hayeing seized, and sent to the Exchequer their said debt, and assigned the repayment thereof upon the moity of your Customes, so that the Merchants are like to have no more then the bare Interest of their Money, the principal lying (in the mean while) wholly dead. Haveing taken the hardship of which un∣der our strict consideration, the conviction of their just importunities prevailed upon our giveing your Majesty this trouble on their behalfe, requireing that instant satisfaction be by the Brazil Company, made the Merchants of his Republick, in reference as well to each ma ns demand respectively, as five Yeares Intrest. This as it is a thing in it selfe consistent with lustice, and conformable with the league lately contracted with you, let me on their behalfe desire in an amicable manner, that it be complyed with without further delay.

From our pallace at Westminster, July 1656.

Your Ma•…•…esties most affectionally OLIVER, Protector of England, &c.

OLIVER, P. of the Republick of England, To the most Sere•…•…e Prince Charles Gustavus, by the Grace of God, King of Sweedland, Gothes, and Vandalls, Great Prince of Finland, &c.

Most Serene King.

AS the alliance of so great a Prince, and so famous for his actions, as Your Majesty is, hath •…•… just Title to the height of our esteeme, so that person, thrô whose means we have been so strictly allyed, I mean that most •…•…llustrious Gentleman Christernus Bondur, your Embassadour Ex∣traordinary, must have been (upon that very consideration) necessarily gratful and welcome unto us. Whom therefore (having laudably dis∣charged this Embassy) we cou'd not dismisse hence, without accompanying him with a Testimony of our being highly satisfied in the rest of •…•…is sin∣gular vertues; as being one who seemes to entert•…•…ine a bel•…•…efe, that this our recommendation of him may add' considerably to that value and esteeme which he is already in possession of with Your Majesty, in reference 〈◊〉〈◊〉 particularly to the diligence and prudence he exerted in this affair. What remaines to be further transacted, we have resolved to send Your Majesty an Embassadour soone about: Whose health God (in the mean time) pre∣serve, for the defence of his Church, and that of the Kingdome of Sweedland.

From our Court at Westminster, July, An. Dom. 1656.

Your Majestie's most affectionally, OLIVER, Protector of the Republick of England, &c.

OLIVER, Protector of the Repbul. of England, &c To the most Serene Prince Lewis, King of France.

Most Serene Prince, Friend and dearest Consederate.

WE have had a petition in the names of Richard Baker, and severall other Merchants of London, and his Associates, wherein they hum∣bly complaine, that an English built Ship, called the Endeavour, Wil∣liam Jopp Master, and hired into their service, was, about the 21. of

Novemder 1655. set upon in her way, between a place called the Palm, and the Island of Tenerif (where shee put out for London from) & seized by four French Vessels who, in appearance looking like Merchant-men, but arm'd like Men of War, and under the chiefe comand of one Egedius de la Rocke, carried her with her whole freight, consisting in Medera, wi∣nes, to the East Indy's, whether they said they were bound; together with most o•…•… the Mariners, saveing fourteen which they landed upon the shore of Guiny; Which the said Egidius declared the inten•…•… of to be, to prevent (by planting them in so remote and inhumane a place) the es∣cape of any who might by a declaration of the fact, hurht him For he did owne, that he had no directions to meddle either with the English, or others, which he might have troubled before; and with all that he was not ignorant of the English and French's being at Peace at that vety time: But designing to revictual at Portugal, but was prevented therein by contrary Winds, was necessitated to supply his Wants with what he found in that Ship: That he moreover believed he might content the Owners thereof in what damage they didthem. Which, by sworne Testimony, will appear to amount to above sixteen thou∣sand Pounds damage to the Merchants. But yet if People will, upon such slender temptations, venture upon the rash violation, and turn into scorne (as it were) the Decrees of Princes, (whose force ought to be of utmost weight,) so as to exercise 〈◊〉〈◊〉 licentiousnesse upon Merchants to serve their own Ends, it truly acts towards a totall dissolution of the Ty of alliances for the future, the word and authority of Princes will decline; and signify just nothing. We do therefore not onely pray, but •…•…udge it very much concerning Your Majesty's Intrest that those who have dared, to make so slight a matter of being the first Breakers of their King's Contract, and most sacred Word, have speedy pu∣nishments executed upon them, suitable to the nature of their perfidious∣nesse and insolency; and that the Owners of the said Ships, do in the mean time, make our Merchants full satisfaction for the damage, and prejudice which this act has injuriously exposed 'em unto. Gods care be Your Majesties continual Guard, and become the defence of the affaires of France against both our comon Enemy.

From our Court at Westminster, August An. Dom. 1656.

Y•…•…ur Majesty's most affectionally OLIVER, Protector of England, &c.

OLIVER, Protector of the Republ. of England, &c▪ To Cardinal Mazarine.

Most Eminent Sir

WHen the imporatance of any affair gives me a necessary Invitation of writeing to the King. I do judge the same, expediently to in∣clude an occasion of doing the like to your Excellency; for to conceale from his knowledge, whose singular prudence alone moderates, with suitable fidelity, advice and vigilancy, the weightyest affaires of France what I write about, is apoint I reckon' of utmost Inconsistency. That Treaty most strictly establisht by you, (whose sinceriry were a sin to dispute) we complain of the violation and contempt of, and that thro the Meanes of a 〈◊〉〈◊〉 〈◊〉〈◊〉 called Egidius, who with his Abet∣tors, broake the same the very sameday (almost) of its confirmation, as our Letters to the King, and the applications from the Merchants them∣selves can make appear to your Excellency, who must in particular know how much it concernes not onely the Magistrates, but his Majestys owne Intrest, to see the originall Infringers of this Contract brought to Ju∣stice. But these perhaps upon their arrivall in the Indies, whether they went, may looke upon the Goods of our Subject (seised upon, upon the heeles if so fresh an alliance contrary to all Justice and truth) as Prised Goods lawfully forc't from the Enemy. That that we woud have your Excellency (in the mean time) do, amounts to no more, then that 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Owners of the said shipps woud make good the promise of this Coman∣der in chiefe, in returning to our people that that may be equivalent to what he has taken from'em, to supply the necestary occasi•…•…ns o•…•… his vo∣yage: wherein we understand Your Excellency to be able to do much by vertue of Your Authority.

From our Court at Westminster, August, A. D. 1656.

Your Eminency's most affectionatly OLIVER, Protector of the Republick of England, &c

OLIVER, Protector of the Republ. of England, &c. To the High and mighty States of the united Provinces

High and mighty Friends and dearest Confederates.

WEE doe not (truly) doubt, but that all persons will say, that nothing has been more the designe of our making Friends abroad, then in order to the raising of them, as such, for the Intrest of the Protestant Religi∣on, nor that has appear'd more the subject of our aim, then the uniteing of their hearts, who either were Friends and champions for the Prote∣stants, or who were not their Enemys at least. Which raises our griefe and trouble of mind so much the higher, when we heare of their suspe∣cting and entertaining of suspitions and animositys against each other, who, as Protestant Princes and Republicks ought to Cherish one ano∣ther in all imaginable Sincerity; especially You, and the Kingdome of Sweedland, (two of the principallest Defenders of the Protestant Religi∣on, and the best Friends this Republick hath) not to have that confi∣dence in each other, whick you were wont to have, yea to •…•…et appear signes either of a growing difference, or an evident decay of your Friend∣ship. What the causes were, or how farr this alienation of mind has extended of either hand, are things which we profess our ignorance of. We coud not (neverthelesse) but be much troubled at these (thô never so inconsiderable) sparcks of disagreements between Brethren, which must necessarily convey a deal of inconveniency to the repose of the Pro∣testant Religion's Intrest, and (whichif sufferd to goe on, (which God Farbidd) how will it endanger the Reform'd Churches, how will the Enemy swell and tryumph thereat, the (spaniards more especially); is a thing that canot escape the prudent Ey of one of your experience. The Spaniard will certainly so swell and swagger hereat, as not to faile of rendering it the business of his Embsssadour with you, to obtrude his advices (and that more Confidently) upon you to be guided by; and with the apprehension of raiseing new warr partly, and by the prospect, of a false advantage partly; tempt to sollicit you to forsake (at his Instance) your old and faithfull Friends; the French, English and Sweedes, and engage in a very strict fellowshipp with one, formerly your Enemy and Tyrant, thô now a seeming Friend, and (which is much to be feared) a a conterfeited One. Truly he, who from a most canker'd Enemy, shall, upon so slight an occasion, presse of a sudden, to become your

Councellour, what is it that such a Man will not assume unto himselfe? what confidence will he raise to, if he can but once see with his Eys, such things as are now onely the b•…•…re conceptions and imaginations of his heart; namely to plant discord and civill Warr amongst the Protestant Confederates? Wee know that you often, pursuant to your wisedome, take the State of all Europe, and the condition of the Protestant Religi∣on more especially, into your consideration; that such of the Cantons of Switzerland as profess the Orthodox faith, are amused; •…•…nd grow preg∣nant with the apprehension of new troubles from their neighbours the Papists, w•…•…le yet scare cowld from the heat of that Wart levyed upon them by the Spaniard, upon the bare score of their Religion, who haveing inflamed and kindled that warr, supplyed their Enemys with men and Money; that the Massacre a•…•…d destruction executed the last year upon the Protestant Inhabitants of Piedmont, were the effects of Spanish In∣fluences; that the Protestants of Germany under the subjection of the Emperour, underwent intollerable disquiets and with much difficulty held their native habitations; That the King of Sweedland, whom God (we hope) raised as a most curagious champion for the Protestant Religion, was exposed to the necessity of maintaining with the strength of his whole Kingdome, a fowle aud rigid Warr against the most power∣full Enemy, that the Reformation has extant; how your own Provinces are threatend by the malicious confederacy lately struck by your Neigh∣bours the Papists, who are the King of Spaine's Subjects; And sinally we, who are taken up by the warr declared against the King of Spaine. If, while things stand thus, a misunderstanding shoud happen to arise between you and the King of Sweedl•…•…nd, what a sad and lamentable condition shoud Protestancy fall under, all Europe over being subject∣ed to the cruelty, and fury of inhuman Enemys? The consideration of which doth not a little trouble us; and believe you to be of the same mind, and that you will withall, pursuant to the great affection you always expressed on behalfe of the Protestant cause in generall, and disposition to the maintaining uninterupted the peace of such, as are 〈◊〉〈◊〉 both in their Judgment and desires, accommodate your counsells to these con∣siderations, which are preferrable to all others whatever, and that you will not decline the doing of ought, that may conduce to the establishing of a peace between you and the King of Sweedland. Wherein 〈◊〉〈◊〉 we can •…•…e of any service; what ever opinion you may entertaine of our Authori∣ty or Intrest, we most freely offer you the tender of our endeavour, with the same readynesse, which we do it to th•…•… King of Sweedland, to whom we

designe likewise to send an Embassy out of hand, to let him know our o∣pinion of this affair. And •…•…ope that God will incline your minds on both sides to moderat Couucills, and prevent the falling out of any thing that may give cause of offence on either hand, or carry things to an ex∣tremity. But that contrarywise, both partys endeavour to remove what may offend or Administer matter of Iealousy to to'ther. Which if you concurr to, you will •…•…oth disappoint your Enemys, and become a comfor't to your Friends, and finally provide plentifully for your owne, and the safety of the Republicke: And do pray you to rest likewise very confident in this, that we, as often as we are supplyd with an opportu∣nity for it, shall employ our endeavour towards the rendering the united Provinces sensible of the great affection and love we bear'em. Sollicit∣ting God wit•…•…all, with our dayly prayers, that he woud be pleased to bless your Repulick with a flourishing peace, riches, Liberty and more especially love and true worshipp, to the Christian faith.

From our Court at Westminster, August 1656.

Your &c. OLIVER, Protector.

OLIVER, Protector of the Republ. of England, &c. To the most Serene Prince John King of Portugall,

Most Serene King.

THomas Maynard has, upon the 11. of July last (old stile) delive∣vered into our Receipt, your Majesties Ratification of the peace con∣cluded by your Embassador at London, as well as of the private and pre∣liminary articles thereof, and by letters then transmitted hither from Phillip Meaddaw our Envoy at Lisbona, understand that he has deliver'd your Majesty ours likewise, pursuant to our direction to him on that behal∣fe: the aforesaid Instruments of Ratification being about the beginning of June last interchanged. So that a most firme Peace is confirmed be∣tween both Nations. From which peace we have derived no small pleasure; for that we judged that as it bespeakes a general advantage to both, so it doth a proportionable detriment to the comon Enemy: Who as they have been the first Inventers of meanes to interrupt the former alliance, so they have lefr nothing unattempted to prevent its reno∣vation novv. Nor do vve doubt of their slipping any occasion that can be

improved tovvards the creating matter of suspicion and offence between Us. Which vve have truly resolved to employ our utmost endeavours and constancy in opposition of; yea it's our earnest desire that the alliance may strengthen our confidence in each other dayly more and more, so as to reckon those our Enemys, vvho, by any artifices, shall appear to employ any project tovvards the lesseningh our friendship among ourselves, and those contain'd in this Ratification; and are verily persvvaded that Your Majesty is much of the same mind. And vvhereas Your Majesty has been pleased (in it's Letters to Us under the 24. of June nevv Stile, and delivered unto our Envoy some days after the mutual exchange of the Instrument concerning the establih't Peace) to mention some Clauses of this Treaty, vvhich you vvould have alter'd, as things vvhich, thô of small moment to this Republick in Your Majesties opinion, yet of very great consequence to the Kingdome of Portugal, We shall be found rea∣dy to treat apart about such things as shall be propound on Your Majesties behalfe, and settleing such things as shall seeme to either party to con∣duce to the further strengthening or binding the same: Wherein we shall observe such measures as may equally conduce to the satisfaction of Your Majesty and People, as our owne, and referr to your choice where you will have all these things debated, either at London or Lisbona. But this Treaty being already confirm'd, passed the lawfull Firme of both Nations, and mutually interchanged; to alter any part of it, were to destroy the whole, which we know is a thing far from Your Majesties seeking. We wish Your Majesty all prosperi•…•…y and happiness.

From our Court at Westminster August 1656.

Your Majesties most affectionatly OLIVER, Protector of England, &c.

OLIVER, Protector of the Republ. of England, &c. To the most serene Prince John, King of Portugal. S. D.

WEE have had an account of that base and wicked attempt, made to∣wards the Murther of Phillip Meadowes sent hence under the Cha∣racter of our Envoy, to treat with you touching a peace: The cruelty of

which has appeared so great, that his escape is the sole effect of God providence and care of him. And do by your Majestys Letters of the 26. of May delivered by Thomas Maynard, understand, that your Maje∣sty, moved at the indignity of the Fact, Issued your comands in pursuit of the Assacinates, in order to their being brought to condign punish∣ment: but do not yet heare of the apprehension of any of them, nor that your Comands concerning them signified any thing. We have therefore thought fitt to declare openly how much we resent that base and barba∣rous attempt, and the approach it made towards its designe: And re∣quire that due punishment •…•…e executed upon the Authors, Confede∣rates and Instruments concern'd in that Villany: And the sooner its done, and People of honesty, utmost integrity, aud who study the Peace of both Nations, appointed to inquire into this affront, whereby the whole may receive a thro inspection, and the Authors of the villany, and those that employed'em, punisht with the great or severity the better. For with∣out which, it will 〈◊〉〈◊〉 raine your Majesty laws of •…•…njustice, nor will the repu∣tation of this Republick be vindicated; nor can any true friendshipp subsist between both Nations, without its correction. We wish Your Majesty all felicity and good luck: remaining

Erom our Court at Westminster, August 1656.

Your Maiesties most affectionately OLIVER, Protector of the Republick of England, &c

OLIVER, Protector of the Republ. of England, &c. To the most •…•…llustrious Lord Connt Mariano. S. D.

Most illustrious Sir.

THE indication of Your singular Love both to me, and this Repu∣blick, contained in Your Letter of the 25. of June, last to me; as al∣so the import of others▪ sent me from Phillip Meaddow, whom I sent to the King of Portugal to treat with him about the conclusion of a Peace, wherein he gives us a full account of your extraordinary Parts and endea∣vour in the Transaction thereof, has obliged us very much by what I 〈◊〉〈◊〉 from the Import of the said Letters. This last consirmation I have received with very much content, and am so farr satisfied in the Issue of things, as that you shall never have cause to repent of whatever you have

〈◊〉〈◊〉 contributed 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the promotion of this Peace, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 your since∣rity to the English, nor of your faithfulness, exerted in this point to His Majesty: It 〈◊〉〈◊〉 (thro Gods assistance) to be hoped, that this Peace may be very advantagious to both Nations, as well as of contrary ef∣fects to the Enemy. All the misfortune and ill luck that attended thi•…•… affair consists in that wicked attempt basely projected against our Envoy Philips Meaddow, Against whose unknowne Authors there ought to be no lesse care taken, then in Instances of manifest Roguery: Nor 〈◊〉〈◊〉 I doubt of Your Kings Justice and severity in punishing soo deepe a piece of villany, nor of your 〈◊〉〈◊〉 promotion thereof in particular, as one, whose practice is Justice and Piety, and make it your businesse to continue both Nations in amity and peace: Which can no way subsist, if such wicked attempts shall be suffer'd to escape unpunishd and unvindi∣cated. But your know•…•… detestation of that villany renders it unnecessa∣ry for me to enlarge any further upon it for the present. As I have there∣fore assured you how ready I shall (at all times) be to demonstrate my sin∣cerity towards you; That that remains is, to let you know of my haveing recommended very fervently both you and all yours to the favour and protection of the Almighty.

From our Court at Westminster, August 1656.

Yours, &c. OLIVER, Protector of England, &c.

OLIVER, Protector of the Republ. of England, &c. To the most Serene Prince Charles Gustavus, King of Sweedland, Gothes and Vandals, &c.

Most Serene King, Friend and dearest Confederated.

WHen I consider that Your Majesty and I, concur both in disposition and resolution, in reference to the defence of the Protestant Religion against it s now (if never before) malignant Enewys: Thence it comes to passe, that as your prosperous Successes & Tideings of your dayly (almost) Victories adds to our satisfaction, so I am very much troubled at that one thing, which disquiets, and destroys this our united content, and that is, to hear, among other news, that your former understanding with the States of Holland doth not stand as well as it did, and that

things 〈◊〉〈◊〉 carry'd to that State 〈◊〉〈◊〉 you (〈◊〉〈◊〉 the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Zea especi∣ally) as to draw seemingly towards a Rupture. The causes I know not I must confesse; I visibly see that without it please God divert it; it will very much devolve the Protestant Intrest. Wherefore we thought it becomeing that neerest relation wherein we are united to you both, and (pursuant to that love and affection to the Reformed Religion, which ought to be a principall inducement to us all) to repeat unto Your Maje∣sty now those perswa•…•…ions which we highly pres'st upon the States of Holland to list•…•…n unto, of Peace and Quietnesse. Every Corner swells with Envy against the Protestants; they seeme to have conspired our de∣struction as being never pregnant with more malice. Witnesse Piedmont loaded but yesterday (as it were) with the blood and Massacre of those mi∣serable wretches; Germany quashed by the late Edicts and proscripti∣ons of the Emperour; witnes Switz•…•…rland. What need there many words to overhall the memory and griefe of so many fresh calamity's? Who kno∣wes not but that those Massacres, Distractions and Vexations, to which the Protestants were for three Yeares together exposed, were the effects of Spanish Couucils, and those of Roman Pontificates. If to so many mischiefs a civill dissention among Protestant Brethren be added; among you more especially, in whose Power, Riches and constancy the greatest safety left to the Reform'd Churches, is (as farr as human help is to be de∣pended upon) lodged: It vvill unavoidably hasard the Reform'd Re∣ligion it selfe, & plunge it into the depth of danger. Whereas on the other side, if the Protestants universally joine in that brotherly unity vvhich be∣comes them to doe, vve neede fear nothing that the arts, or povver of our Enemy's can doe to hurt us; vvhom our Concord alone vvill baffle and disappoint. I therefore in an extraordinary manner pray and be∣seech Your Majesty, that you vvould be pleased to apply a vvilling and vvell disposed mind to the confirming the former understanding vvith the States of Holland, if in any point the same b•…•… slacken or abated. If in any thing my endeavour, faith & diligence can be thought of use towards an accommodation; I do promised and tender you the same. God in the mean time bless, and prosper the success of vvhat I vvish; vvhich is, that Your Majesties affaires may prosper and run in an interrupted stream of felicity.

From our Court at Westminster, August 1656.

Your Majesties most affectionatly OLIVER, Protector of England, &c.

OLIVER, Protector of the Republ. of England, &c. To the States of Holland.

High and mighty Lords, dearest Frirnds.

WIlliam Cooper a—Londone•…•… and our Subject made his complaint, that John la Mair an Amsterdamer & his father in Law, did about thir∣ty yeares agoe; invent a meanes of raiseing the Revenue of your Republick •…•…arr higher then it was, and that without any extraordinary burthen to the people; and made a Covenant with one John van den Brooke, importing that upon some consideration between 'em, he should receive the moity of such 〈◊〉〈◊〉 as should redound from the said Invention, which was the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of the small seal in the Provinees. In consideration of which your mighty Highnesse were pleased to settle the yearly allowance of three thousand Guilders (which amounts to three hundred pounds in English money) to be paid annually to the said van den 〈◊〉〈◊〉 and poste∣rity: But now, albeit the said Invention of the small seal has been found very easy and expedient, and of a considerable advantage to your High∣nesses and the other Provinces, yet no part of the said settlement has been made good to this day, altho sought with much sollicicitation. So that he the said van den Brooke, and la Maire being tired out with delays, that affair lawfully descended to the said William Cooper our subject; who out of a desire of receiveing the effects of his Father in Laws Industry, applyed unto us by petition, praying that we woud recomend this his Re∣quest to the consideration of your Mighty Highnesses; which we thought unsit to de•…•…y' him in. Wherefore make it our friendly request to Your Mighty Highnesses, that you would please to give a fair hearing to the petition of the said William Cooper, and take care that the stipula∣ted Reward of Industry, and so just a stipend, and for so many yeares past, with a yearly 〈◊〉〈◊〉 fot the time to come, be paid him. Which as we doubt not of your Mighty Highnesses free allowance of, as a just thing and worthy Your Bounty; so we shall be on ou•…•… part ready to shew the like just disposition to your People in their Requests, as often as we are in that nature applyed unto.

From our Court at Westminster, September, Anno Dom. 1656.

I am your mighty Highnesses most affectionally, OLIVER, Protector of England, &c.

OLIVER, Protector of the Republ. of England, &c. To the most Serene Prince Lewis, King of France.

Most serene King, Friend, and dearest Confederate.

IT is with violence to our inclination, that so many complaints of ours, against the injustice of your Subjects, should happen to pursue the peace reestablish't vvith Your Majesty: But as vve are confident that our sufferings are no vvay the effects of your consent, so vve cannot be vvanting to the Complaints of our People. It is evident that the Cap∣ture of the Ship Anthony of Deepe vvas lavvful prize, if the Sentence of our Admiralty Court be consulted vvith; vvhich says, that her seisure happen'd before the Treaty vvas concluded. Part of vvhich Prize, to the number of about four thousand Hides more or lesse, Robert Browne Merchant of London, bought of those vvho had the overseeing of the publick sale: Upon his sending, selling, •…•…d calling for the price of ab∣out tvvo hundred of vvhich Hides from a certain Skinner at Deepe, he complaines that the same vvas stopt and arrested in his Correspondents hands, a quarrel fastend upon him, so that he cannot attain to Justice in that Court. Wherefore vve have thought fit to desire Your Majesty to cause the vvhole matter, to be brought before your Council, and that mony disengaged from that most u•…•…just restraint. For if vvhat vvere comitted before the conclusion of the Peace, shall be liable to be called into question and Judgment after its confirmation: We do not see vvhat a Treaty can signify. For there can be no end of quarrels of this kind, if some severe punishment be not timely avvarded these frequent Peace∣Breakers, vvhich vve hope Your Majesty vvill take speedy care to see done▪ Whom God honour vvith his most holy Def•…•…nce.

•…•…om our P•…•…llace at Westminster, September, 1656.

Your Majesty's most affectionatly, OLIVER, Protector of England, &c.

OLIVER, Protector of the Republ. of England, &c. To the most Serene and Potent Prince John, King of Portugall.

Most Serene King.

THe peace between this Republick and the Kingdome of Portugall, being now transacted, and all due provision and 〈◊〉〈◊〉 •…•…ken of Trade. Wee have thought it a thing 〈◊〉〈◊〉 and necessary to dispatch the bearer Thomas Maynard to your Majesty, to act in your Kingdome as Consul; to hear and determine matters of debate usually ariseing amongst Mer∣chan•…•…. But in regard it often f•…•…lls out, that the nature of his employ may necess•…•…rily require 〈◊〉〈◊〉 to your Majesty, relateing as well to the Intrest of this Nation, as Trade, in generall. Wee desire your Majesty, that as often as he has occasion of being h•…•…ar'd, you will please to allow him the liberty of approaching to, and being heard by your Maj•…•…sty, which shall pass with us for an evident argument and singular Testimony of your esteeme of us. That the omnipotent great God may (in the mean time) prosper all your Majestys undertakeings.

From our Court at Westminster October 1656.

Your Majestie's most affectionately OLIVER, Protector of England, &c.

To the King of Svveedland.

Most Serene a•…•…d Potent King.

ALbeit your Majesties wonted and naturall disposition to men of me∣rit is such, as to reckon all additionall comendations unecessary, yet we coud not dismiss this worthy Gentleman Sir William Vavasor Knight a person of note in warlike discipline, and now upon his Journey towards you, with out accompaining him with the trouble of a letter to your Maje∣sty. Our freedome in the doing of which was prompted so much the mor•…•…, when we were tould that much of his time & blood has been spent in the pursuit of your service, and in many battells fought on your behalfe: So that the late Kings of Sweedland have, in consideration of his warlike skill and true courage, often exerted in warr, settled Landsand annuall Pensions upon him. Nor do we doubt but that he may be of future great

use to your Majesty in the present Warrs, as being faithfull and of knowne skill in Martiall discipline. It is therefore but what he merits, if we recomend him to your Majesty; that the allowances granted him by them formerly, be paid. This we will take very kindly; nor shall we, upon any the like occasion that may offer grudge, to gratify your M•…•…∣jesty, whom we wish all hapy•…•… and prosperity unto.

From our Court at Westminster Octob. An. Dom. 1656.

Your Majesties most affectionatly OLIVER, Protector of England, &c.

OLIVER, Protector of the Republ. of England, &c. To the most Serene Prince, John, King of Portugall. S. D.

Most Serene King, Friend and dearest Confederate.

Thomas Evans Skipper, and one of the Subjects of this L•…•…d, com∣plains that, haveing served the Brasile Company Annis 1649. and 1650 in a small vessell of his, of about forty Tuns, and whereof he was himselfe Master, the said vessell, with all her Freight and apparell, was ta∣ken from him, pursuant to a comand of your Majestys: So that the dama∣ges done the man, besides the loss of six yeares profit, amounts (accor∣ding to the Report of the Commissioner appointed by the League to de∣cide differrences on both sides,) to above seaven thousand pounds sterling or twice that number of Milreis of Portugall, Which proveing such a great affliction to the a foresaid Thomas, so as to be constrain'd to repair to Lisbon to recover his Right according to Tearms of the Treaty, hum∣bly prayed us, that we vvoud gra•…•…t him our Letters to your Majesty: Wee, (altho we did the last year writ on behalfe of those merchants cause in Co∣mon, to whom the Brasile Company is indebted, yet that we may be want∣ing to none justly requireing our help): pray, that the consideration of our friendship may be an inducement to your Majesty to take particular care of this mans case, & so direct your people, that nothing may, in your City, stand in this mans way, which may interrupt his demanding & without delay recovering forthwith what ever the said Company or any others

•…•…an accountable to him in. God incr•…•…se your Majesty in perpetuall felicity, and render our friendship d•…•…eable.

From our Court at Westminster Octob. An. Dom. 1656.

Your M•…•…jesties most affectionatly OLIVER, Protector of England, &c.

OLIVER, Protector of the Republ. of England, &c. To the Illustrious and Magnificent Citty of Hamburgh.

Noble, Magnificent, and worthy Gentlemen, dearest Friends.

James and Patrick Hay, Subjects of this Republick made us their hea∣vy complaint, setting forth, that being the lavvsul heires to a third brother called Alexander, vvho died intestate, and so declared by a sen∣tence of your Court, pronounc'd thirteen yeares ago against his vvid∣dovv, avvarding the petitioners the Estate of their said Brother, dedue∣ting onely her portion; coud not hither to, either by by their ovvne soli∣citation, or the interposition of the late King Charles (vvho vvrit to that effect,) received he benefit of the said sentence; That the purse and •…•…ntrest of one Albert van Eisen, a great Man among you, (in whose hands great part of this Estate lies) are made use of to keepe them out of their Right, who Acts all he can to prevent their Recepit thereof. Being thus eluded, sham'd oft with delays, and at length reduced to great poverty, and supplicateing that we woud not suffer them to sink under the oppression of a Corporation that's our Friend. And looking upon it as a principall branch of our Office to deny our assistance to none of our Subjects in cases, wherein our help and protection are justly called for and applicable, our Request to your Corporation shall not exceed what may be easily obtein'd, and that is; to give the said sentence its due force, without suffering your Justice to be further suspended, or the said Brethren exposed to any the like future delays whatever; for we have consulted and accordingly herewith send you under Hand & Sealed the opinion of our learn'd in the Law, awarded here concerning their cause. W•…•…erein if Intreatys cano•…•… doe, the Laws of Nations must

〈◊〉〈◊〉 such other methods as we woud willingly avoid the pursuit of, and which we are confident your prudence will invite you to prevent.

From our Court at Westminster, Octob, 16. A. D. 1656.

Yours most affectionately OLIVER, Protector of England, &c.

OLIVER, Protector of the Republ. of England, &c. To the most Serene and Potent Prince Lewis, King of France. S. D.

Most Serene and Potent King, Friend, and dearest Confederate

OUr Letters of the 14. of the May last was twelve Month are (we suppose) come to Your Majesty's hands, containing acom∣plaint made by John Dethick, then Lord Mayor of the Cit•…•…y of London, and William Wackfield Merchant, who declared that a Ship of theirs, called the John, laden with their proper Goods, to be transported to Ostend, was snatched away from out of the River of Thames's mouth, and carryed to Dunkirke, by a cer•…•…ain Privateer Comissionated thereto, by th•…•… Son of Charles Stuart: That they (pursuant to your Proclama∣tions and Decrees of Councill prohibitting the admission into, or s•…•…le of any Ship taken from t•…•…e Parliament of England, in any of your Po•…•…ts) praying Monsr. l'Estrade Governour of that Gitty to comand the restitution of the said S•…•…ipp and Goods; had an answer •…•…o way truly suitable to the worth of a Gentleman, nor such as would seem▪ inclinable to shew obedience enough to his Kings comands; namely that the King of France conferred that Governership upon him in Consideration of services in the Warrs; moreover, that he would take care to improve it all he coud (right or wrong for sooth he did not seem to matter which) As if your Majesty had bestowed this Governership and office upon him to robb his Neighbours vvith and Wipe his breech (as it were) with Edicts proclaimd in their favour. If the King of France will be no more concern'd at injurys done us by our 〈◊〉〈◊〉, then b•…•…ly to forbidd his Subjects from abetting therein a

Royall Governour has, in his connivance thereat, not onely violated and dispised a Royall prohibition, in suffering us to be robbd, and made a prey of before your doores, but he himselfe is the Robber and made a prey of us, and owned himsel•…•…e openly to be Author of the Fact. T•…•…e Merchants therefore pu•…•…t off with this answer; provoaked and eluded, went away with a flea in their Eares: Our letters of last yeares date car∣ryed Your Majesty an account of this affair, tho to as little purpose wee must confesse (for we we have yet seen no answer thereto) The rea∣son why was, we believe, because that Governour attended, about that time, your army in Flanders; he lives now at Paris, or rather Rants up and downe, Citty and Country loaded with the spoyles of our people unpunished. This therefore brings your Majesty a Repetition of our said demands, which concernes your Majesties owne Intrest principally to provide for, that none dare to heighten the thing by adding the con∣tempt of Royall Edicts to Injuries done his Neighbours: This matter canot be properly referr'd, or carried before the Deputys or Commissio∣ners appointed to the decision of Controversys on both sides; seeing it goes beyond the Right of Society, Royall Authority and the reverence due to that name is struck at. It is to be truly admired, if Merchants will be more concerned at their sufferings, then your Majesty at yours, namely the diminution of your honour. Which if you will not suffer, you will at one stroake shew, that it doth not repent you of any friendly office which those most friendly Edicts might have intended in favour of us and this Republick, nor that you have connived at the sufferings of our people, nor that you would not listen to our Demands. I am, in affecti∣on, friendship and fellowship,

From our Court at Westminster An. Dom. 1656.

Your Majesty's most affectionally OLIVER, Protector of the Republick of England, &c

OLIVER, Protector of the Republ. of England, &c. To the most Serene and Potent Prince Frederick the 3. King of Denmark, Norway, Vandalls and Gothes; Duke of Slesvice, Holsatia, Stormaria and Dithmarsia, Earle of Oldenburgh and Delmenhort, &c. S. D.

Most Serene King, Friend and dearest Confederate.

THis brings you an account of our Receipt of your Majesties Letters of the 16. of Frebuary from Hasnia, brought by amost worthy Gent∣leman Simon de Perkinn your Embassadour here; The peruseall of which, and the very weight of their contents, did so affect us, that we did forth∣with resolve upon sending unto your Majesty One, furnished with such Instructions as should enable him to open unto Your Majesty at large our sense of this affair. And altho we continue still under the same inclina∣tion, yet we cou'd not hitherto fix upon one fit to be intrusted with a Matter of that importance, as we hope we may in very little time. Wee did in the mean time, judge it inconsistent with conveniency to suspend any longer the letting you know for a truth, how much our thoughts and Care are taken up (and that in an imoderat measure) for the present State of Europe: Wee haveing, from severall Yeares observation, collected to our great 〈◊〉〈◊〉, matter enough to inferr from, that the principall Pro∣testant Princes and Corporations (who out of regard to their comunity in Religion and its support, ought to use all meanes tending to its confir∣mation and defence) grow dayly more and more animated against each other, and suspect, or put an ill meaning, upon whatever the rest at∣tempt or project; freightening their friends, while on the contrary they dictat hopes to the Enemy of ensuing Enmity and dissent in this Bent of affaires, rather then a firme union of minds to the mutuall safeguard and defence of each other. And truly this anxiety made the deeper figure in our minds, and continues to gaine daily, from some sparkes of Jealousy, which seem to remain unquelled between Your Majesty and the King of Sweedland; or at last from your being at greater distance in your minds, then our comon love and affection to the Orthodox Religion seemes to call for; whilest your Majesty entertains (by what fate I know not) a Jealousy that the Trade of your Kingdome may receive some prejudice from the King of Sweedland; who is likewise little better satisfied, but

that you may aggravat the warr, wherein he is now engaged, and render the Termes of peace, which he might otherwise make, more intricat. Your Majesty canot but, from that great prudence exerted in all your af∣faires, know, how much it will expose the protestant Religion, if such suspition continues long among you, and how much more, if, (which God forbidd) any token of hostility shoud breake out. However these things stand, we, as we have earnestly sollicitted both the King of Sweedland and States of Holland to peace and moderat resolutions, (and shou'd be extraordinarily gladd to see you reconciled to peace and con∣cord, the States haveing sent us the heads of that league) so we reckon'd it our part, and very consistent with our friendshipp, not to co•…•…ceale from your Majesty what ever we thought of this matter, especially when we consider the most friendly invitation given us by your Majesties Let∣ters so to do; a thing we looke upon to be a singular argument, and em∣brace it as one, of your good disposition towards us. And lay before your Majesty what a charge divine providence has laid upon the professors of Protestancy, of maintaining peace among our selves, when our Enemyes (now especially if never before) seeme so violent against us, as to have conspired, as it were, from all places to our destructiom. It helps not to overhall the Blood and Massacre, wherein these at Piedmont lately Swam; nor those of Germany tore to pieces by the Edicts and proscripti∣ons of the Emperour, nor finally the furious assaults of the Popish Switt∣sers upon their Protestant Neighbour. If to these misfortunes a falling ou•…•… among protestant Brethren be added, as Oyle to quench fire; espe∣cially among you, who are so great a part of our strength, and in whom so much o•…•… the Protestant Protection and strength is reposed in tickelish times; Reformation must (as farr as human power can reach,) go downe and be destroyed. When on the contrary, if you cherish peace among your selvas as Neighbours, and the rest of the Protestant Princes, if bro∣therly concord be of all hands studyed, we shall have no reason to fear (with Gods help) what the artifice or force of our enemy can do Us. The dissipation of whose designes depending wholly upon our agree∣ment. Nor do we truly fear, but that your Majesty, will contribute all it can (and thats much) towards that end. Wherein I shall (my selfe) be very ready to joyne Issue with your Majesty as a Professor of true friendshipp, and one whose study shall be not only in maintaining the peace already so happily establisht, but also go as farr as God shall be ple∣ased to suffer me to go, towards the improveing that now existent.

God, in the mean time, bless and prosper all your undertakeings▪ Iam in friendship, alliance and affection.

From our Court at Westminster, Decemb. An. Dom. 1656.

Your Majesties most affectionately OLIVER, Protector of the Republick of England, &c

OLIVER, Protector of the Republ. of England, &c. To the most Serene and Illustrious Prince and Lord, the Lord William, Earle of Hasnia, Prince of Herefield Counte in Cattimelibock▪ Decia Lingehain, Nidda and Schaumburgh, &c.

Most Serene Prince.

WEE woud not have respitted the answering your highnesses Letters so long, (of which we are almost ashamed) did not many other af∣fairs, of utmost importance truly (which our charge in the administra∣tion of this Government wou'd not suffer us to deferr the dispatch of, much against our inclination) prevent it. For what Letters ought I to entertaine with more regard, then such as come from a most vertuous Prince, and related to a Race suitably Religious, and which concerne nothing so much, as the Repose of Religion, and the reconcileing of Curches to concord; and which also, not onely in your, but in the opini∣on and judgment of the Christian world, ought to be generally attributed unto me as an honour to be the promoter of the Christian peace? And truly what we have endeavoured'd towards it, thro these three (former∣ly) Kingdomes, what have we accomplished (thro divine help) by perswa∣deing, suffering, and conquest; is a thing not unknowne to most of our owne people, and that which they are very sensible of in the great tran∣quility of their conscience. We have studyed the repose of all the Chur∣ches, thro out Germany more especially, where they have been most, and longest at variance; and have been, for a considerable time past, wanting in nothi•…•…g that coud contribure thereto. We continue the same inclina∣tion still; We wish the said churches may be united among themselves in brotherly charity. But we are, to our very great griefe, more then sensible, how difficult a Taske he undertakes, who takes upon him the

reconciliation of such (as pretend onely) to be Sons of peace▪ For it is a thing to be scarce hoped ever to see the Resormed and Augustins brought to one Church; nor preaching nor writeing will be able to reconcile their opinion, nor prohibitted without violence; But violence is a thing inconsistent with the peace of the Church: dissenters may be prevailed upon by Prayers, to act more meekly and moderately at least, nor ought they to grow the cowlder among themselves; Differing not as enemys but friends, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 at variance in frivolous matters, yet most united in the main point of Faith. We shall never own our selves weary in the repeating and perswadeing of these things; which the strength nor councell of man can exceed: God▪ whose peculiar worke it is, will in his time do it. You have in the mean time, Most Serene Prince, left a samous decla∣ration of your inclination to the Churches, as •…•…n everlasting monument, becoming your family, and a patern fit for the imitation of all Princes he∣reafter. Wee do, pursuant to your deserts, pray that the great good God may bless all your other undertakeings with as much felicity as you your selfe can desire, and continue you in your present mind, no altera∣tion being able to mend it▪

Westminster March An. Dom. 1656.

OLIVER, Protector of the Republ. of England, &c. To the most Serene Prince, the Duke of Courland.

Most Serene Prince,

YOur kind entertainment of our Embassadour, during those few dayes, he stayed in Your Country, in his way to the Duke of 〈◊〉〈◊〉, has, beside other considerations, shewed Your Highness's opinion of us; who hope that your owne natural disposition, added to our interposition, may 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Your Highnesse not toalter those inclinations of your kindnesse towards us now; •…•…n the case of John Jameson a Scotchman, who having 〈◊〉〈◊〉 you seaven yeares, and that faithfully, as Master at Sea, deliver'd a Ship of yours lately comitted to his charge, in her Ballast, to the care of a Pilot, upon her arrival (as the custome is) in the Mouth of the River, and made out by good evidence, that discovering the ignorance of the said Pilot, did all he coud to advise him, so that the miscarriage of the said Ship can be no way imputed to him, but wholly to the un skill fulnesse

or obstinacy of the said Pilot. Admitting which, its our earnest Re∣quest to Your Excellency, that the said Shipwrack be not laid to the said John the Master's charge, nor the wages remaining due to him stopt therefore, upon that score; which is what he has left to subsist, comfort himselfe with, or take to in the end, having, by a precedent shipwrack, lost what he had a little before.

Westminster, March, Anno 1657.

OLIVER, Protector of the Repbul. of England, &c. To the Noble Consuls and Senators of the Commonwealth of Switzerland. S. P. D.

Most Noble, Magnificent Gentlemen,

WE have been alwayes of opinion, that in Industry, Riches, and Practise of Arts and Sciences, the Fame of your Citty might vie and stand in competition with any the Noblest Citty▪s whatever: Now having chosen to take part with Poland, rather then Sweedland, in that Warr, which has for▪ a considerable time raged upon the Frontiers of your Coun∣try, it were truly to be wished, that the consideration of that Religion which you professe, and of the antient Comerce between you and the En∣glish, had inclined you to the choice of such Resolutions, as shoud seeme to consist with the Glory of God, and the dignity and splendor of your Corporation. We therefore pray that the Alliance established by the length of custome and now extant between the English Nation and you, & my name, (if it may add any thing,) may induce you to set at liberty the Noble and famous Conismarek, the chiefest among the Sweedish Cap∣tains, a singular person in warlike discipline more especially, and who has been casually, and thro the Treachery of his People, betrayed at Sea and by the Law of Warr (not yet gott to the height of bitternesse) made Prisonner: But if you shou'd chance to Judge it inconsistent with the present posture of your affairs to free him that then you wou'd please to render his Confinement more easy. Whatever of these two you happen to resolve upon, you will resolve upon that which will be truly and principally consistent with the reputation of your Corpora∣tion;

and consequently beget the esteem of all Noble Comanders & oblige us more especially in an extraordinary manner what ever you thinke it may avail you.

From our Court at Westminster, Anno Dom. 1657.

Your most affectionatly OLIVER, Protector of England, &c.

OLIVER, Protector of the Republ. of England, &c. To the most Serene and Potent Prince and Lord, the Em∣perour, and Great Duke of all Russia, Lord of Voladomar, Muschow, Novogrady, King of Kazin, and Astracan, Syboria, Lord of Vobsco, Great Duke of Novcgrod, and of the Law Countreys, Chernigoy, Rezanscoa, &c. Lord of all the North Seas, also Lord of Everscoa, Cartaluisa, and many other Places. S. P. D.

THe antiquity of the alliance, great and generally noted Trafficq, to∣gether with the vast and antient comerce for along time observed be∣tvveen this Government and your people, but (Great Emperour) that 〈◊〉〈◊〉 vertue more especially, wherein you outdo your Ancestors ve∣ry much, with the opinion entertained thereof by all your Neighbou∣ring Princes; have been our principall Inducement, to cherish that affection for your Majesty, which vve do, and communicate the∣reto, what vve may judge not a little conduceing to the Intrest of Chri∣stian affaires, and suitably subservient to the Glory of your Name. Pre∣vious whereto; Wee have deputed, under the character of our Embassa∣dour to your Majeay, a very vvorthy Gentlemen Mr Richard Brad∣shaw, in whose fidelity, Integrity, Prudence, and experience, we have been sufficiently satisfied by his discharge of former Embassys, and who comes fully capacitated, to make kowne the singular affection and observance we bear you; and suitably impower'd to treat with your Majesty concern∣ing the affaires above mentioned Be plased therefore to receive him curteously in our name, and order him, as he shall have occasion for

it, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 access to your speech and Ear, with proportionable credit to what he shall propose or transact and that in as full a 〈◊〉〈◊〉 as you woud unto us if personally present. Wee wish that the Almighty and Great God may bless Your Majesty and Kingdome of Russia with all properity.

From our Court at Westminster April An. Dom. 1657.

Your Majesties most affectionatly OLIVER, Protector of England, &c.

OLIVER, Protector of the Republ. of England, &c. To the most Serene and Potent Prince Charles Gustavus▪ King of Sweedland, Gothe aud Uandals, Great Prince of Finland, Duke of Esthon, Carelia, Bremen, Verd, Stetin, Pomerania, Cassuby and Vandall, &c.

Most Serene and Potent King, Friend and dearest confederate

WIlliam Jepson Kinght, and a member 〈◊〉〈◊〉 our Parliament, vvho reckons it an honour to have the delivery hereof to your Majesty, comes to let your Majesty knovv, vvith vvhat trouble and griefe of mind 〈◊〉〈◊〉 vve surprised at our receipt of the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of that fatall warr arisen between your Majesty and the King of Sweedland, and how much its become our study and care to advance as 〈◊〉〈◊〉 as God will enable us to go, towards the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 stopping of this growing mischiefe, and 〈◊〉〈◊〉 to beat back those calamitys which this warr must necessarily beget to the generall con∣cerns of Religion; now more especially, at a time when our adversarys are visibly seen united in their most pernicious counsells, and conse∣quently in their strength against us. These and many other considera∣tions and reasons, of utmost moment to the publick advantage of both Nations, have been our inducements to dispatch this very worthy Gen∣tleman under the character of our Envoy Extraordinary to your Majesty, whom we pray you to 〈◊〉〈◊〉 kindly, and throly confide in, in refer∣rence to such things as he shall comunicate in our name to your Maje∣sty; as being a person whose fidelity & prudence we confide very much in; praying withal that you woud not in the least suspect our singular affection

and sincerity we bear Your Majesty. Which our disposition of mind, and redynes to Serve you upon all occasions, shall contain real demonstra∣tions of.

From our Court at Westminster, 1656.

Your Majestie's most affectionatly OLIVER, Protector of England, &c.

To this Excellency the Lord of Bourdeaux, Embas∣sadour Extraordinary from his most 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Maje∣sty the King of France,

Most Excellent Sr.

SAmuel Dawson, John Campsey, and John Nevin Merchants of Lon∣don, have preferred a petition to the most Serene Lord Protector, set∣ting forth, that they, upon their being informed of the conclusion of the Treaty between this Republick and France, freighted Anno 1655. a ship (called by a Name not answered by her luck; viz. the Speedwel, whe∣reof John Karr war Master) with 〈◊〉〈◊〉 comodities, to be thence trans∣ported to Portugall; where haveing unloaded, and taken in fresh freight consisting in Wines, and other comodities, was, in her way back, set upon about the 24. of November in the said year, and seized by two Men of Warr belonging to Brest, whose Comanders were called, the one Adrian Vindmain Swart, and the other James Jonshon, who carried her to a place comonly called Brivat; where shee was condemn'd as lawfull prize, and exposed to publick sale, the goods taken from'em being bona fide and really worth eleaven hundred pounds, besides the fur∣ther damage of a thousand pound: That they pursued all lawfull meanes with the Governour and Magistrates of that place to recover'em: That all amounted to nothing hitherto: That they 〈◊〉〈◊〉, pursuant to the Custo∣mes of the Admiralty Court, sued out a publication, whereby they were to be sumond and cited to Justice, who were concern'd in the capture of the said shipp, who 〈◊〉〈◊〉 to insist upon the legalty of their Seizure. That this publication was duely & orderly published & delivered, & 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the publick Ministers of the saide Court, timelily 〈◊〉〈◊〉 to the French Embassadour; That when none appeared on the contrary side, it was desired that witnes∣ses might be 〈◊〉〈◊〉 and examin'd concerning the matter under 〈◊〉〈◊〉.

Which, as it was presented to the Lord Protector by the petitioners, and by him referred to the cognisance and opinion of the Councill; and whe∣reas the affidavits of witnesses annexed to the petition make plain enough, that the petitioners were at liberty to trade with Portugall; and seeing none can be so blind but may see, that the after-seisure of Goods bought and loaded there, is (as we said before) an act contrary to the repu∣tation of the alliance: who canot but judge it a very 〈◊〉〈◊〉 demand to have the said shipp and goods restord, or full satisfaction made of the damage 〈◊〉〈◊〉 from this 〈◊〉〈◊〉, in referrence as well to the expence 〈◊〉〈◊〉 in the prosecution at Law, as the goods and shipp themselves? Let me therefore desire you in the name of the most Serene Protector, added to my own request to Your Excel∣lency, that you woud endeavour all you can, (and therein to employ the Authority of Your Employment too) towards the speedy effect∣ing of either of the two. In regard you canot labour in a cause more equitable, nor that you can please me more in; who, by how much the earlyer Your Excellency shall appear to have acquitted your 〈◊〉〈◊〉 in what you ought to do herein; by so much the more that diligence shall appear, which I am always inclinable to ob∣serve in the allowance of the demands made upon me by my people.

Whitehall August An. Dom. 1657.

OLIVER, Protector of the Republ. of England, &c. To the most Serene Prince, the Lord Frederick Williams, Duke of Brandenburgh, High Chamberlain of the Holy Ro∣man Empire, and Prince Elector of Magdeburgh, Prussia, Julia, Clivia▪ the Mountains of Stetin, Pomerania, Cas∣subyes, and Vandalls; as also in Silesia, Crosna and Car∣novia, Duke Burgrave, Norinbergin, Prince of Halberstad and Mind, Earle of Marca and Ravensbergh, Lord in Ravestein, S. P. D.

Most Serene Prince, Friend, and dearest Confederate.

WHereas you 〈◊〉〈◊〉 singular vertue in peace & Warr, haveing soun∣ded all over the world with that Renowne (such is your Greatnes

and 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of courage that the ambition of your friendship is gaped at by the neighbouring Princes about you,) so as that none need to desire a friend and neighbour of more fidelity or constancy. Wee have also (to let you know of our being one of thsoe, who enter∣taine high and clear thoughts of you, and Your Exttaordinary obligati∣ons upon the Christian Republick) 〈◊〉〈◊〉 you a very worthy Gentleman William Jepson Knight, and one of our Parliament Men, who comes to Salute 〈◊〉〈◊〉 in our name, bespeake and wish your affaires all happy∣nesse, and finally to make knowne at large the love and great affection. vve bear Your Highnesse: Praying that vvhatever proposalls he makes you, you listen thereto vvith as much attention and confidence, as you vvoud to our selves if personally present at the delivery thereof.

From our Court at Westminster August Dom. 1656.

OLIVER, Protector of the Republ. of England, &c. To the most Noble Magistrates and Senators of the City of Hambrough. S. P. D.

Most Noble, Magnificent and worthy Gentleman, Dearest Friends▪

HAveing directed a very worthy Gentleman William Jepson Knt, and member of our Parliament (upon his going thrô 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Citty, in his way to the most Serene King of Sweedland, whether we sent him on an Embassy) not to pass by, without saluteing you in our name; and pra∣ying that if in ought he judged your Authority and advice to be of any service to him, you woud deny him in neither: The freelyer you shew you selves wherein, the more sensible shall you be made of our disposition towards you.

From 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Court at 〈◊〉〈◊〉 August An. 〈◊〉〈◊〉. 1657.

To the most noble Magistrates of the Citty of Bremen. S. P. D.

Most Noble, Magnisicent and Worthy Gentlemen, Dearest Friends.

YOu have heretofore, and shall as often as there is occasion for it, be made sensible, how you stood in our opinion, and affection, and that as well out of regard to your Religion as the Renowne of your Citty. Now; whereas William Jeps•…•…n Kut, a member of our Parlia∣ment, and a very worthy person, may in his way to the most Serene King of Sweedland (whether he goes on an Embassy) pass thro •…•…our Citty, our present request to you amounts to no more then this, that upon his delivery of our Salutes, which he is directed to hand to you, if in a∣ny thing he happens to need your help or •…•…iendshipp, we have ordered him to propose our •…•…ntrest with you as an inducement to your complying with him in any demand he shall make upon you wherein we no lesse rely upon your allowance of, then you ought to doe upon our love and sin∣gular affection towards you.

From our Court at Westminster August An. Dom. 16•…•…7.

OLIVER, Protector of the Republ. of England, &c. To the most Noble Corporation of Lubeck.

Most Noble, Magnificent, and worthy Gentleman, Dearest Friends.

WIlliam Jepson Knt, a very worthy person, and a Member of our Senat, proceeds under the character of our publick minister, to the most Serene King of Sweedland's Court, held not farr distant from yours. Do therefore pray that while his Journey happens to continue within the limits either of your Citty or Jurisdiction, our alliance and comerce may be inducements to you to aid, if need be, and protect him. We moreover directed him to salute you in our name very kindly. and invite you to an assurance of our Clear disposition of mind and 〈◊〉〈◊〉 towards you.

From our Court at Westminster, August An. Dom. 1657.

OLIVER, Protector of the Republ. of England, &c. To the most Noble Magistrates and Senators of the Citty of Hambrugh. S. P. D.

Most Noble, Magnificent, and worthy Gentlemen, Dearest Friends.

PHillip Meddow, who brings you this, takes your Citty in his way to Denmarke, (whether wee have sent him as our Embas∣sadour to the most Serene King of that C•…•…ntry.) Whom we earnestly recomend to your favour, if in any thin•…•… he may judge it needfull to make use of your Authority or help. Praying that our Recomendation be of no less weight now, than it was always wont to draw with you; who shall 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of nothing from us of an acknowledgment upon a like oc∣casion.

From our Court at Westminster August An. Dom. 1657.

OLIVER, Protector of the Republ. of England, &c. To the most Serene Prince Frederick Heir of Norway, Duke of Slesvice, Holsatia, Flormaria, Dit∣marsia, Count in Oldenburgh and Delmenhorst.

WEe have sent William Jepson to the most Serene King of Denmarke, (being a Gentleman of a noble Family, & member of our Parliament,) to treat with him as our Embassader, about an affair that concernes the felicity and prosperity of the peace of Christendome. And have, a∣mong other things, directed him to visit and salute (in his way shither) your in our name, and make mention of our former kindness and most constant affection. And desire that your Authority may be em∣ployed to secure and 〈◊〉〈◊〉 his Journey thrô your Country. In which your Highness will oblige us and ours in a more speciall manner to sui∣table Returnes.

From our Court at Whitehall August An. Dom. 1657.

OLIVER, Protector of the Republ. of England, &c. To the most Serene Prince Ferdinando, Great Duke of Toskany.

Most Serene great Duke, Dearest Friend.

APplication has been made unto us by petition, in the names of seve∣rall Merchants tradeing to the Levant Seas, setting forth, that one William Ellis master of a certain shipp called the Little L•…•…wis being by an Otoman Peere hired in the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of Alexandria, to carry Rice, Suggars with other comodities thence•…•… Constantinople or Smirna, there to be dispo∣sed of to his directions; the said person withdrew from the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 fleet, and, contrary to his Trust, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the said 〈◊〉〈◊〉 to Livorne: where he disposes of it as prized Goods. Which misbehaviour as it is of utmost 〈◊〉〈◊〉 example, of great infamy to the name of Christians, and a passage that may expose the fortunes of such English Merchants as live in the Ottoman Empire, to Reprizall. Wee desire that your Highnese woud Issue your Comands for the apprehension and laying up of the said per∣fon, secureing (in the mean time) the said shipp and Goods, till intimati∣on be transm•…•…tted hence to the said Ottoman Prince of the care taken of the Re•…•…titution of his said Goods. Promiseing that if your Excel∣lency shall happen to need the like from us, in any Instance of this kind, we shall be as ready to answer it, as we are now to aske.

From our Court at Westminster, An Dom. 1657.

Your Highness's most affectionatly, OLIVER, Protector of England, &c.

OLIVER, Protector of the Republ. of England, &c. To the most Serene Prince and Lord, the Lord Fre∣derick William, Duke of Brandeburgh, &c.

Most Serene Prince, Friend, and dearest Conf•…•…derate,

OUR last to Your Highnesse by William Jepson, who either already has, or soone may deliver'em, will shew you what errand we have sent him upon; and how that we could not have done the same without

doing you the Justice of inserting som mentions of your vertues, and the affection we bear you. But to prevent any mans thinking, that our notice of these great obligations of yours conferr'd upon the Protestant Interest, and celebrated as such in the Report of all Men, is the slight effect of or∣dinary Custome; we must •…•…ay hold upon the same argument now, where, tho we cannot be more sincere, yet a little more large we have thought fit to be then we have been, in our expressions towards Your Serenity. And not without cause truly, considering that we are dayly told, that notvvithstanding all the attempts, that are made upon you by the supple address of Trick and artifices, yet your constancy and loyalty is found to give no way, nor be perswaded to part from the friendship of a most cou∣ragious King and Confeder•…•…t; and that at a time, when the condition of Sweedland is such, as that it is manifest, that your regard to the welfare of the Protestant Religion in general, is the onely inducement that keepes you to their Society, and no privat end of your owne: As also when hem'd in, and, as it were, besieged by private as well as publick enemy, peeping from every Corner: to continue neverthelesse that steddynesse and comanding-vertue, as that the Judgment of the whole matter & the Issue of this very great Warr seeme to acquiesce in whatever your shall determine. Wherefore your Highnesse has no re•…•…son to question, but promise it sel•…•…e any thing that may be expected from our friendshipp; who woud arraign our selfe of all Delinquency, if we did seeme to enter∣taine cheaper thoug 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of your fidelity, constancy, and other Merits, or seeme less in our acknowledgments to your particular Government upon the comon account o•…•… Religion. As to the delay met with by John Fre∣derick 〈◊〉〈◊〉 your Councellour and Embassadour here, and our re∣spitting hitherto that reply which, according to our inclinations, we ought to have made to his proposalls, we pray that our Highnesse woud impute the same to the condition 〈◊〉〈◊〉 our affaires, and not the said person, whose Industry and diligence act and contend for it; and rest assured, that we looke upon nothing more dear or desireable, then to be service∣able and assisting to your affaires so inseperable from the Intrest of the Pro∣testant Religion. Wee, in the mean time, pray in our prayers to to the most Great and Omnipotent God, that your apparent vertue and courage may never saile, fall under oppression, or misse of its due re∣ward and praise.

From onr Court at Westminster September An. Dom. 1657.

Your Highnes's most affectionately OLIVER, Protector of England, &c.

To the most Excellent Lord, Monsieur de Bour∣deux, Embassadour extraordinary from his most Serene Majesty the King of France.

Most Excellent Sir,

THE most Serene Lord Protector has had a demand, made upon him by Luke Lucius' Merchant of London, concerning a Ship of his, cal∣led the Maria, which, in her way between Ireland and Bajone, (being by distress of weather forced into a place called the Bay of divi Johannis de Luce,) was there retain'd and arrested in the name of one Martine de Lawson; nor to be discharged, till satisfied by his Merchant Correspon∣dents, and the propriety of the said Ship and Goods decided by a law-suit to be comenced between them and the said Martin. The said Martin pretending to a considerable debt due from the Parliament of England up∣on the account of some Goods of his, which were laid hold o•…•…, pursuant to the authority of Parliament Anno 1642. But whereas it is manifest that the said Martin had nothing to doe with the propriety of the said Goods, but sollicited the Right of two Persons Richald and Triat, a∣gainst one Anthony Fernand, and the said Anthony and Martine at variance among themselves, the Parliament directed that the said Merchandises should be laid up, till the law did determine who of the two had most Right to 'em; the said Anthony, being always ready to goe to Law; whereas; nor Martin, nor any for •…•…im has hitherto appeared in Court, as may appear throly in the former pro∣ceedings annexed to the humble address of the Petitioner; It is a point of very great Injustice t•…•…at the person who denyes to try his pre∣tended Title with Anthony his Collegue, concerning other mens Goods here, shoud be able to force our people and the true Owners too, to the trouble of proveing their Right to their owne Goods there: The most Serene Lord Protector is of opinion, that to be of the same judgment i•…•… a thing consistent with your equity and prudence too, by whom I have it in comand to recomend this case of Luke Lucius the petitioner to your Excellency in an Extraordinar namer: that Martin, who neglects to prosecute the Right of another here, be not sufferrd in that restraint to lay hold upon other mens goods •…•…here.

Westminster October An. Dom. 1657.

Your Excellencys most affectionatly

OLIVER, Protector of the Republ. of England, &c. To the most Serene Duke and State of Venice.

Most Serene Duke, and Senat, dearest Friends,

WEE have such frequent Tideings da•…•…ly brought us of your happy suc∣cesse against the Infidels, that nothing happens to be oftener the Sub∣ject of our Pen, then to congratulate with you concerning some signall vi∣ctory or other. Wee wish, that this very last One may prove comfortable and of advantage to your Republicke, & which is of utmost Glory, a Deli∣verer of all the Christians laboureing under the slavery of the Turke; More particularly of Thomas Galile, formerly Master of a shipp called the Reliefe, whom albeit this is not the first time of our recomending to your Government, yet we do it with so much the more freedome now, by how much we consider the length of his Captivity, being now the fifth year: When you comanded him and shipp into the service of Your Re∣bublick, he did, in an engagement with many Gally's belonging to the Enemy, depresse some, and comitted a great Massacre among others; He was at length (the good Man) taken, his ship burnt, after the good service he did the Venetians, and lives now in the fifth year of his Captivity under the slavery of Barbary: He has nothing left to pay his Ransom; for whatever there was either in goods, shipp, or sallary, he says it remains yet due from Your Government. But, that meanes may not be wanting for his Redemption; (•…•…et the Enemy say they I part with him upon no other Termes, then in exchange of one of theirs of an equivalent price.) We earnestly desire your's, and the serenity of the Senat, jointly, (as doth the most miserable antient Man his father, pregnant with griefe aud yeares, which have truly engaged us in his be∣halfe) that you wound, as soone as may be, out of the multitude of Tur∣kish Prisoners, which so many prosperous battells must have furnished you with, pick out some person which they may accept of, in exchange of one, who has fought so well for you, and is the onely son of the most af∣flicted old man as well as our Subject. And thereupon see that, what∣ever appeares due unto him from your Government upon the account of wages or otherwise, be forth with paid unto either his father, or atturney. Our former interposition, or rather your owne Justice has induced you, up∣on a former inspection made into this matter, and examination of ac∣counts,

to order the imediat 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of what was his due: but no payment has pursued that direction, the intervention of other urgent considerations haveing possibly prevented it. Now the poor man's health can bear with no further delay. You must, if you desire he may live, endeavour to discharge him forthwith out of the filthy sestraint of im∣prisonment. We are confident that your own most naturall inclination will (without any importunity of ours) prompt you to his speedy enlar∣gement: considering that, in justice, moderation, and prudence, you are no less considerable and flourishiug, then in glory and warlike Try∣umphs. And that you may long continue therein in prejudice of your most iminent Enemy, is the content of our supplications to the Omnipo∣tent Greatest God.

From our Court at Westminster October An. Dom. 1657.

Your Highnsse's most affectionally OLIVER, Protector of the Republick of England, &c.

OLIVER, Protector of the Republ. of England, &c. To the High and Mighty States of Holland. S. P. D.

High and Mighty States, Friends, and dearest Consederates,

WIllam Newport, that very worthy Person, who for some yeares past, attended here as your Embassadour Extraordinary, brings you this upon his returne home: But goes with your permission onely, leave∣ing us, in the mean time, under hopes of his returne hither quickly again. His conversation, while here, has been accompanyed wi•…•…h so much faithfulnes, vigilance, prudence and Justice, as that we woud not, nor can expectmore vertue & integrity (in all respects) from an Embassadour, and a very good Man, so addicted was he to the study and practice of manteining a fair understanding, (void of all deceit and fraude) between us, as that dureing his continuance among us under that Character, we cou'd not see any thing of offence or jealousy that cou'd arise or spring up among us: And truly we wou'd have been much more troubled at his departure (as things seem now to stand) were we not very assur'd, that none being better, or that with more faithfulness can represent the General

State of our affaires, or the sincerity of the love and affection, we bear your Excellency, will force his returne hither a gain. Wherefore wee pray that you wou'd please to receive him both as a Person, who in all circum∣stances, has done both our governments extraordinary good service: and dismissed him, (tho as) such almost against our will, accompanyed with the most genuin' Testimony of our thought of him. God prosper your affaires, in subserviency to his owne Glory, the defence of the true Pro∣testant Religion, and perseverance of friendshipp.

From our Court at Westminster, Nomember, Anno Dom. 1657.

Your Highnesses most affectionatly, OLIVER, Protector of England, &c.

OLIVER, Protector of the Republ. of England, &c. To the High and Mighty Lords, the States Generall of the United Provinces.

High and Mighty Lords; Friends, and dearest Confederates,

WEE have (in consideration of the long and clear experience had of his fidelity in several affaires, uprightness, and knowledge) sent you George Downing, Gentleman, under the Character of our Envoy, and furnished him with ample directions accordingly. We therefore pray that you wou'd, according to your wont, receive him kindly, and give credit to what he shall say; as often as he shall signify his haveing ougt to be (in our name) comunicated to Your Excellency; and likewise comit to him with as little distrust, as if it were to ourselves, whatever you wou'd have imparted unto us. What we have to add, is fervently to wish you all prosperity, in subserviency to t•…•… Glory of God, and the kee∣ping up of the Church.

From our Court at Westminster, December 1656.

Yours Highnesse's most affectionatly OLIVER, Protector of England, &c.

To the States of Holland.

Wher•…•…as such is the correspondence between this Republick and Yours, and such is the mutuall Trasficq, that unless an Envoy or Agent be sent hither thence, or hence thither, matters of that great impor∣tance to t•…•…e advantage of both Nations, canot be so conveniently carryed on. We have, in pursuance of comon Custome, determin'd upon the sending you under that Character, George Downing Gentleman, a Person whom, in the discharge of many and various former Trusts, we found of great faithfullnesse integrity and knowledge; To continue there in our name, and spend his time in such offices, as may seem most condu∣ceing to the inviolable preservation and continuance of our alliance. Haveing comunicated these things in writeing to the High and Mighty States, we have thought it requisit to do the like to you also, (who in your Province bear so great a part of the government, and are so conside∣rable a limb of the States of Holland) to the end you might receive our En∣voy with all convenient decency. And assure yourselves that what ever he treates with the States Generall about, or conclude we shall stand thereto as imoveable and steddy, as if we our selves were personally present there at. God direct all your Councils and Actions to his owne Glory, and the Repose of the Church.

Westminster, &c. Deeember, 1657.

OLIVER, Protector of the Republ. of England, &c. To the most Serene Prince Ferdinando, Great Duke of Toskany.

Most Serene Great Duke, much to be honoured Friend.

YOur Highness▪s Letter of the 10. of November from Florence, has ad∣ded considerably to our delight, in that the contents thereof shew much of your affection towards us, and that in a nature so extraordinary, as to 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the true Image o•…•… a sincere mind: Your Excellency writes of it•…•… haveing, with all imaginable care (we understand) performed our Re∣quest,

which sollicited, that you woud •…•…ssue forth your comands for the ap∣pre•…•…ending of Wiliam Ellis Master of the ship called the Little Lewis (who very dirtily broake his word to the Turcks) and stopping in port the said shipp and Goods, till the Turcks had restitution made them, to pre∣v•…•…nt any disgrace that might ari•…•…e from such Theft to the reputation of Christianity. Wee therefore both thanke you for this kindnesse, and withall desire this; that in regard thè Merchants undertooke to satisfy the Turkes, you forthwith discharge the said Master, shipp, and Goods; least we shoud seem to take more care of the concernes of Infi∣dels, then those of our owne people. Your Highness es affection has been (in the mean time) so apparent, so 〈◊〉〈◊〉, and so acceptable unto us, that to deferr our wishes of being supplyed with an occasion of ma∣keing you suitable Returnes, were to own the stain of being reputed ungratefull persons▪ and whereby we might also demonstrate our dis∣pofition of mind in the ready returne of our effectuall acknowledg∣ments.

From our Court at Westminster December An. Dom. 1657.

Your Highness's most affectionately OLIVER, Protector of the Republick of England, &c.

OLIVER, Protector of the Republ. of England, &c. To the most Serene and Potent Prince, Charles Gustavus King of Sweedland, &c.

Most Serene, &c.

YOur Majesties Letter of the 21. of February from your Court at Selan∣dia, came pregnant with matter enough to fill us with satis•…•…action of no small degree, in reference as well to our own private, as the concerne of the intire welfare of Christendome: First that the King of Denmarck, (to gratify I believe no private Inclination or end of his owne, but dri∣ven into hostility, rather by the artifice of the comon Enemy) shoud be, upon your entry into the bowles of his Countr•…•…, suddainly so reduced, and that without much blood, (that as the case stood) he judged his ta∣keing up of armes against you, might be ameanes of his atteining at length to a more advantagious peace: Next concluding that the onely means of

accomplishing such a peace, was to make use of our interposition if he coud obteine it; that your Majesty, prevailed upon at the single •…•…n∣stance of our Envoy in his letter, shoud, in so easy a condescention, shew what value it had for the interposition of our friendshipp and Intrest: and to have been pleased to lodge my endeavour in the front of so pious aworke; so as to become the main Instrument and author my sel•…•…e of a peace so promiseing as this (I hope) may be to the Protestant Intrest. For whereas the Enemys of Religion dispaired of disuniteing yours, by a∣ny other meanes then that of setting you by the Eares among your selves, they must now certainly have reason to apprehend▪ that this suddain conjunction of your forces, and of your minds (we hope) may turne to the destruction of the kindlers of this Warr; Go on in the mean time, (most valiant King) in prosperity, and see that the Enemys of the Church smart now (thro Gods help) under the weight of that felicity, which they lately admired in your exploits and stream of victories, against a King now your friend.

OLIVER, Protector of the Republ. of England, &c. To the most Serene Prince Ferdinando, Great Duke of Toskany.

Most Serene Prince.

OUr answer to your Envoy here, may, we suppose, prove of satisfacti∣on to your Highnes, concerning the Comander in chiefe of our fleet lately arrived in your Roade. Wee have been in the mean time) petitio∣ned unto by John Hosier a Londoner, and Master of a certain vessell called the Mistriss, wherein he says, that, haveing in the Month of A∣prill 1656 comited by charter party his shipp to one Joseph Harman an Italian. and finding that the said Italian apparently broake the Termes of the said Charter party, was forc't, (to prevent the losse of ship, goods and adventure, to call him to Justice at Livorn•…•…, haveing previous thereto published, (according to the custome of Merchants in like cases) and recorded the Cheat. But that he, to back one fraud by another, seized (by a feign'd attach'ment) upon six thousand Pieces of eight of one Mr Thomas C•…•…atterbuck money in the name of the Petitioner, ha∣ving (to promote the design) drawen in, two other litigious fellowes: That he, after the expence of much money and time, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 not attain

to justice at Livorne; nor indeed dared to appear at that Court, for 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of the threatenings and snares •…•…aid for him by his adversaryes. Wee therefore pray Your Highness to be pleased to lend your help to this Peti∣tioner thus oppressed, and, according to your wonted custome, chec∣que the artifice of his adver•…•…aries: For it totally defeates the d•…•…signe of such Lawes as the authority of Princes confines Corporations unto, if what violence and injury, for want of the force of a Law, canot doe, terror and Threatenings must supply the place of, to keepe the Lawes from being appealed unto. Yet we do not doubt but that Your Highnesse whom the Almighty and most High God blesse with Peace & Prosperity, will order timely reproof to be awarded these methods of presumption.

Dated at Westminster 7. April, Anno Dom. 1658.

To the most Serene and potent Prince Levis, King of France.

Most Serene and potent King, Friend, and a•…•…gust Confederate,

YOur Majesty may call to mind, that when we treated about renew∣•…•…ning of the league, (the fortunately laid fundation of which has pro∣ved the spring, whence arose so many advantages to both Parties con∣cern▪d, as well as expose the comon enemy to 〈◊〉〈◊〉 〈◊〉〈◊〉) that miserable Massacre befell at Piedmont; whose cause (〈◊〉〈◊〉 and afflicted on all hands) we did, with great 〈◊〉〈◊〉 and 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of mind, recomend to your pity and Reliefe. Nor do we thinke that Your Majesty has, as far as concernes your own particular, been wanting to a worke of that piety; yea so human, as not to have employed the extent of what you ought to have of favour or intrest, with the Duke of Savoy. Our interposition by Embassyes, Letters, and Prayers has, in imitation of other many Princes and Corporations, not been wan∣ting. After the execution of a most bloody Massacre upon both Sexes of all ages, a peace is at length given, or rather a secret kind of hostility, wrapt up and laid under the vizard of a seeming peace: The Condi∣tions of this peace are brought to your Towne of 〈◊〉〈◊〉, yea those hard Ones, but such, as those wretched and needy people (tired out with all imaginable hardship and cruelty) wou'd gladly have condescended unto, as hard and unjust as they were, provided they were stood unto;

〈◊〉〈◊〉 the Faith of every single one of 'em is eluded and violated, under false constructions & quibleing equivocations; many being thrown out of their 〈◊〉〈◊〉 habitations; prohibited the exercise of the Religion of their Fore∣fathers; new Taxes exacted; new yokes clapt to their Necks; to that degree, that such as happen to fall in the way of the Soldiers, (who often •…•…ally out upon 'em) are either robb'd or murther'd. To which, add the new Levyes lately and secretly raised against 'em; and such of 'em as are Roman Catholicques comanded to stepp out of the way within a certain time limitted; so that all things seem now a fresh to threaten the Ruine and Destruction of those few, which the last Massacre left undispacht. Which I beseech and pray, tha•…•… by that Right hand of Yours (most Chri∣stian King) which has confirmed the League and Alliance with us, by the most holy reputation of that most Christian Title, you will not suffer to be carryed on, nor give countenanceto (I do not mean any Prince for no Prince, much lesse one of his tender yeares and motherly Spirit, can entertain so much▪ Tyrany, but those most sanctified Murtherers) to the promotions of so much li•…•…entious Tyrany; The persons concern'd, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 they pretend to act as servants and Pursuers of the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 〈◊〉〈◊〉 our saviour Christ, who came into the mansion of flesh to becom a sacrifice for the sins of mankind▪) a buseing his most meeke name and Lawes in the cruel murther of the 〈◊〉〈◊〉. Releive, (you that can, and who, in such a case, are worthy of the power) so many humble petitioners of yours out of the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of Men - Bu•…•…chers, who lately drunk with Blood, woud 〈◊〉〈◊〉 〈◊〉〈◊〉 thirst with the same liquor; and who judge it very aduiseable to charge the effect of their cruelty, to the account of Princes. But do not you 〈◊〉〈◊〉 your Titles, or the hem's of your Kingdome▪ nor the most 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Gospell of Christ to be (while you reigne▪) 〈◊〉〈◊〉 with that envy or cruelty. Remember, that these very People, in the time of Your 〈◊〉〈◊〉 King He•…•…ry, a great Friend of the Protesta•…•…ts, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 a submissive People; and Promoters of the entrance of Digvierius, when he, thro the most accessible places o•…•… Italy, victoriously invaded the yeeldieg People of Savoy, over the Alpes▪ The instrument containing that submission remains yet ex∣tant among the Record•…•… of Your Kingdome; wherein it is, among o∣ther things, excepted and provided for, that the Protestants about the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 shou'd not •…•…e yeelded to Any, except it were under the Tea•…•…mes which Your most invincible Father received em upon, into his allegeance.

This they now lay claime to▪ they humbly require a Grandfather from

You his Nephew: They woud wish that, if by any exchange it might be done, they might be come yours, rather then remain his, whose Subject•…•… they now are. Which if it canot be; you may lawfully become a harbour (at least) comfort, & refuge unto 'em. There are some Intreagues of State, which may render it adviseable for you, not to reject the revolt of the Protestants of Piedmont to you; But I woud not, considering the great∣ness of such a King as you are, propose any other inducement to invite you to the defense of the Calamitous, different from the engagements of your Predecesser's piety, Royall benignity, & Greatnesse of Spirit: So that the praise and Glory of a most noble deed will be uncomunicably and intirely your ovvn, and you your selfe find, that the father of Mercy, and his son Christ, King, whose name and doctrine you will thereby vindicate from all wicked cruelty, will so much the more favour and prosper the remain∣ing part of all your life time. The Omnipotent most Great God inspire Your Majesty with this inclination, for the service of his owne Glory, the salvation of so many most inocent Christians now at stake, and your own reputation.

Dated at Westminster May 1658.

To the Evangelicall Cantons of Switzerland.

WEe have judge it an unnecessary worke, to write you about matters, which (you your selves knowing better byfarr then we) we abhor in our Soules to remember▪ & that out of detestation to the barbarity of the things themselves, imposed upon your most afflicted Neighbours the Protestants of Savoy▪ and the intollerable persecutions which their own Prince has exposed 'em to, upon the account of their Religion. Wee have also seen a copy of the Letter, which your Embassadours, sollicitours and other persons present at the late Peace at Pinaroll, writ to the Duke of Savoy; and the Praesident of his—Councill, wherein they shew, & evince, that all the conditions of peace (broke, as soon as made) tended ratherto amus & impose upon the poore people, then provide in any sense for their secu∣rity. The violation of which, following upon the veryheeles of the grant of the peace, is to this day continued, & their su•…•…ferings likely to grow worse. If they do not submit patiently, if they do not prostrate & cast themselves downright, to be kicked, & have the Dirt strained thrô their bodies, & for∣sake

their Religion the same calamity still hang's over their heads, the same Massacre, which has raced & afflicted them, their wives & children most lamentably, but three yeares a goe, is still in view & which if they undergo again, will destroy 'em stock and branch. What will you have the Wret∣ches doe? on whose behalfe no prayers can prevaile, no Ease can be had, no Refuge yet open for; they have to do with wild beasts and Furyes, whom the memory of former slaughters canot call to the grace of Repen∣tance, nor pitty towards their Countrymen, quench their Thirst of shedding inocent blood. These things are not, in plain Termes, to be boarn vvith, if we either bear any love to the safety of our Brethren, so an•…•…ient adherers to the Orthodox Religion, or if we tender the safety of Religion it selfe. Wee have, albeit at this great distance, already done it, & shall not forbear our cordiall supplying, of what we can, either of help or subsistence towards their Reliefe. You that are, not onely within call of the Groanes & clamours of your Brethren, but also stand in the mouth of their Enemyes fury, looke about you, in the name of the Imortal God, and see timelily what you ought to do on your part, Advise with your owne prudence, piety and courage, and consider what you can, or ought to contribut of help or protection towards the support of your perishing neighbours and Brethren. You may certainly assure your selves that the very same Enemy woud, for the very same reason, (being Religion) rejoyce at your destruction too; yea consume your confederates in the fla∣mes of an 〈◊〉〈◊〉 warr the very same time of the a•…•…oresaid year. The power, next to God, seemes to remain in your hand, of preventing the ultimat decay of the reformed Religion, in the ashes of that remaining scantleing of antient fidelity▪ vvhom if you novv neglect in the height of their distresse, take care that the next Turne prove not your ovvne, & that in little time. While vve are employing our selves in the promoteing of these persvvasions, as Brethren and plaine Dealers, they languish: What vve can do at this great distance tovvards the purchase of the safe∣ty of the afflicted, as vvell as easeing the vvant of the needy; vve have, and shall do all vve can. God provide us both that tranquility and peace at home, and put our affaires in such a conditiou of settlement, as that vve may employ all our povver and strength and affection for the d•…•…fence of his Church against the fury and Rage of the Enemy.

Dated at Westminster May An. Dom. 1658.

To his Eminency Cardinall Mazarine greeting.

Most Eminent Sir.

THe inclosed to his Royall Majesty, as well as the other to your Emi∣nency, are the effects of the intollerable calamityes and most cruel Massacre lately exercised by the Duke of Savoy upon such of his Subjects, as professe the Protestant Religion, And albeit I canot judge so uncha∣ritably, as not to believe, that to a most Glorious King such barbarous pro∣ceedings, of destroying the Inocency and helpesnesse of people, must imply much displeasure and offence, yet I am of opinion that what I move about, on behalfe of their condition (which is miserable) may not misse of your furtherance & favour towards the procureing of its end; •…•…t being a very plain thing that nothing can goe further towards the establishing a good opinion of France in the harts of her Protestant neighbours abroad, then to assert, the grant of the Liberty and Priviledges settled upon 'em by the publick acts of former times. And truly this was (among other considerations) a Maine One, to induce this Republicke to engage in an Alliance and League with France▪ Previous to the establishment of which his Majesties Embassadour has sollicitted here for a considerable time, and things seem now to draw towards a conclusion. The singular sin∣cerity & moderation, which in the conduct of the considerable concern∣es of the Kingdome, you have testified to the Protestants of France, doth truly induce me to hope for, and rely upon this; and from which, a bottome will be also laid by your Excellency •…•…or the raiseing an alliance upon of stricter friendshipp between England and France, and oblige me in particular to the makeing all imaginable Returnes of friendshipp and kindnes: and woud have your Excellency think soe.

Your Eminency's most affectionately

OLIVER, Protector of the Republ. of England, &c. To the most Serene and Potent Prince, Lewis King of France.

Most Serene and Potent King, Friend, and August Confederat.

ALbeit the affability of his society coud scarce suffer me to give way to the departure of Thomas Vicount Falkonbridge my Son in Law, who, bent upon a present Visit into France, desired to beenabled to testify the duty and reuerence he beares your Majesty, by haveing a view of, and kissing your Royall hand; yet I did not thinke fit to baulke or withstand his said purpose, or decline his request: When I canot doubt but that upon his Returne after little time from the Court of so great a King, where the conversation of so many very prudent and valiant men is to be had, he may come back better instructed, and as it were, perfected in all man∣ner of good accomplishments, And albeit he is, if I mistake not, one who carries his owne Recomendation wherever he goes, yet if he finds himselfe the more so, upon my account, I shall reckon the favour done my selfe. God preserve your Majestys safety, and long continue our friendshipp steddy for the Comon Good of all Europe.

Dated at our Court at Westminster May An. Dom. 1651.

OLIVER, Protector of the Republ. of England, &c. To His Eminency Cardinall Mazarine.

Most eminent Lord.

HAveing recomended Thomas Vicount Falconbridge my Son in Law▪ now bound for France, to the most Serene King, I coud not de∣cline •…•…omunicateing the knowledge thereof, with a repetition of the like trouble to your Excellency, as being unignorant of the weight and mo∣ment the same May be of to the former one. The benefit which he pro∣poses to himselfe from his stay among you (and he hopes this may be no small one) he canot but own the most part of to your favour and kindnesse; whose Judgment and vigilance alone beare so great a share in the Gover∣ment of that Kingdome. What ever kindness your Eminency will please to shew him, reckon it to my account; who shall add it to the ma∣•…•…

other Instanc•…•…s of friendshipp which you have been curteously and a∣micably concern'd in upon my account.

Dated at Westminster May An. Dom. 1658.

OLIVER, Protector of the Republ. of England, &c. To His Eminency Cardinall Mazarine▪

Most Eminent Lord.

HAveing sent a very worthy Gentleman Thomas Bellasis Vicount Faul∣counbridge my Son in Law, to compliment the most Serene King upon his arrivall at Dunkirke; I comanded him to attend upon, and salute your Eminency in my name, and thanke you, as the person to whose fidelity, prudence, and vigilance alone, the affaires 〈◊〉〈◊〉 France in divers places, and in the neighbour hood of flanders, more especially ovv their prosperity against the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Enemy the Spaniard; whom I hope, open & prepared force may soon bring to a Reckoning for his fraudulent & underhand dealings▪ wherein consisted much of his defence: Towards the speedy promotion of which, our Prayer and Pikes shall not, as farr a•…•… we are able, be wanting.

Dated at Court at Westminster An Dom. 1658.

OLIVER, Protector of the Republ. of England, &c▪ To the most Serene aud Potent Prince Lewis King of France.

Most Serene and Potent King, Friend, and August Confederate.

AS soone ever as I had an account of Your Majestys comeing into the field, and with such a force, to lay a siege to Dunkirke, that infamous Recess for Theeves; I grew much affected thereat, and began to entertain sure apprehensions that little time might, with Gods assistance, render the sea more navigable and less inflected with Rovers, th•…•…n it has hitherto been; that Your Majesty woud bring the fraudulent Spaniards to an account for Hesden and Ostend (being both the purchase of cor∣ruption and Bribery) by w•…•…ning that with your sword, which was Iost thrô

the treachery of ill servants. I therefore send Thomas Vicount Falkon∣bridge my Son in Law, and a very worthy person, to bidd you, and the approach of your Camp so neeer, welcome; and to let you know per∣sonally, how ready are, not onely our wis•…•…es, but also our united strength, to testify the affection we bear to t•…•…e good successe of your con∣q•…•…ests, and our supplications to the Almighty Great God for your safety, and the long continuance thereof, for the comon good of Christendom and the friendshipp wherein we are now engaged.

Dated at Westminster May An. Dom. 1658.

To the most Serene Prince Ferdinando, Great Duke os Toskany.

Most Serene Great Duke.

THe Purport of all your Highness s former letters haveing invited us into a dependance upon the sincerity of the disposition you bo•…•…r us, Wee are troubled to find that the same has been so obscurely signified unto •…•…our Governours and publicke Ministers, or soe ill understood, as that in the port of Livorne (where your good Inclinations towards us ought most to be knowne) we canot receive the benefit or Eflect thereof; but the contrary rather; from the Tryalls which we are forced to con∣tend dayly vvith, of animosities and strangness. Wee seem to have more then knovvne the unfriendlynesse, vvith vvhich those of Livo•…•…ne lately treated our Fleet, how little help or supply it cou'd receive, and fi∣n•…•…lly with what hostility entertained, and how it was forc't •…•…o quit that Port, (as the Testimony of several credible wiltnesses belonging to that place makes appear, as well as that of the Comander in chiefe of the Fleet, whom as we have intrusted therewith, we canot den•…•… beliefe unto in this point) Upon his first arrival & the delivery of our Letters to Your Highnes∣sse about the Calends of 〈◊〉〈◊〉, your Promises of all Friendship and good Offices passed to our Men, were very large. When, praying the liberty of makeing use of the conveniency of Port Ferara, the following Reply was given; that the same cou'd not be granted least the King of Spaine (our Enemy) shoud be offended at it forsooth. And yet what is it that a friendly Prince is more usual in the grant of to his Neighbours, then the liberty of his Port and shore? What is it that we can propose of ad∣vantage

from such a Friendship, which, rather then offend our Enemys shall be found ready er to incomode, then act the contrary, or supply, us in the least of our necessities? And more particularly, that out of every of our Ships, there were not above two or three suffer'd to goe a shore and that conditionally too, videlicet Praticque; That as soone ever as the Towne understood and had notice of our haveing intercepted a Dutch Vessel design'd for Sapine with a supply of Corne, there was pre∣sent admittance. Mr Longland, President to our Factory there, was denyed the Liberty of going a board our Fleet: Fresh Water, which is a comodity free for the use of all Nations, that are not dovvne right Ene∣mys, vve cou'd not obtaine, but at an ext•…•…aordinary price, and that under the difficulty of a Guard too: So many of our Merchants, vvhose Residence there is of no small advantage to your Country, are forbid to visit or help their Countrymen vvith any thing: Upon the approach of our Fleet about the latter end of March last, none were suffer'd to go a shore: Five days a•…•…ter; vvhen by chance one of our Men of vvarr •…•…ell fo vvl of a little inconsiderable Boat belonging to the States of Venice, and tooke her▪ your City tooke it in such a Dudgeon I warrant you as to have accosted us vvith tvvo hundred Guns, or thereabouts, tho vvith∣out damage, vvhat ever they intended. Which argues how farr into the sea from the reach of your Castle and the privilege of your Port these things were comitted which you woud causlely pretend to be an incro∣achment upon the priviledge of 〈◊〉〈◊〉 port. For presently our Waterboa∣tes (then a shore) vvere set upon before your doores, one taken & de∣tained, and vvhen demanded that vvithout restitution of the said Naple's boot, notwitstanding the justifiableness of her capture, considering vvhere it happen'd; nor men 〈◊〉〈◊〉 boate were to be parted with, so that our People were 〈◊〉〈◊〉 at last, to rest contended under their losses, and pack away without carrying along what they so dearly paid for.

If all these things were, (as we hope they were) committed with∣out the consent or comand of Your Highnesse, we desire that you shew it in the punishment of that Governour, who made so slight a matter of 〈◊〉〈◊〉 •…•…is masters 〈◊〉〈◊〉. But if otherwise, and that you were privy to it, thinke that as we alwayes valued your friendship at an extraordi∣nary Rate, so we have learn'd the lesson of distinguishing between kind∣nesses, and open Injuries. Iam. &c.

Dated at our Court at Westminster, May, An. Dom. 16•…•…8.

Your Friend as far as I may, OLIVER, Protector of England, &c.

OLIVER, Protector of the Republ. of England, &c. To the most Serene and potent Prince, L•…•…vis King of France.

Most Serene and potent King, Friend, and august Confederate,

THE double amends made me by the quickness by Your Majesty's so Il∣lustrious an Embassy, as it has testified your singular goodness and Grandeur of mind, so it has laid open not onely to me, but all England also, the height of the regard you bear to my honour and dignity: For which I do, in theirs and my ovvne name (render a•…•… I ought,) you very great thanks. I wish you Joy of that signall victory, which God and our aid has blessed you with over your Enemy, and looke upon it as a thing of utmost acceptance to us, to find that our people have not, in that battle, been wanting to your help, the warlike Glory of their Ancessors, nor their owne former valour. As to Dunkirk and the hopes your write to be under, of haveing it soone surrendered; it adds to my content to be able to take notice in writeing so soone of its cap∣ture: Hopeing vvithall that the double fraud of the Spaniard may be pu∣nished beyond the loss of a single Citty; that the takeing of another Citty may furnish your Majesty with an occasion of being as quick in your Re∣ply hereto concerning the takeing of another. As to what you add of your Intentions towards my concernes, that is a thing I no was distrust, as haveing the word of so good a King confirmed by so worthy a Noble ma•…•… as Captain Crequi's your Envoy for it; And do wish that the Almighty High God may endow your Majesty, and the Affaires of France with pros∣perity both at home and abroad.

Dated at Westminster Jun. An. Dom. 1685.

OLIVER, Protector of the Republ. of England, &c. To his Eminency Cardinall Mazarine.

Most Eminent Sir.

IN the comunication of my acnowledgments to the most Serene King by Letter, (who, to give me the honour of a salute, and an account

of his late most noble victory d•…•…spatcht hither a most splendid Embassy) I shoud own the guilt of Ingratitude, if I failed in 〈◊〉〈◊〉 your Emi∣nency mutuall payment of my acknowledgment in the same Met•…•…od, who▪ to testify your good disposition towards me, and st•…•…dy of doing me all the honour lying within your power, have sent your nephew, a ve•…•…y worthy exquisit Gentleman, adding that if you had a neerer relati∣on, or whom you esteem'd more, you would not fail of •…•…aveing sent him to choose. To which consideration adding also, that the comei•…•…g under the approveal of the judgment of so 〈◊〉〈◊〉 a man, is a thing which I deeme for no small honour, or ornament unto me; namely that the nearest of your relations, shoud, in the payment of their resp•…•…cts and kind∣nes to me, follow the patterne of your Excellency: They may (its pro∣bable) looke upon this example of your worthynes, Candor and friend∣shipp in loveing of me, as none o the least; others they may find in you, which for great vertue and prudence, are farr fitter to be imitated, as lead∣ing to the knowledge o•…•… Governing and managei•…•…g the Reins of State affaires. Your Eminencie's long and happy conduct of which, the comon Good of the Kingdome of France, the intire Christian Republick, and your owne reputation, are instances vvhich vve vvish all happyness unto.

From our Court of Westminster June An. Dom. 16•…•…8.

Your Eminency's most affectionately.

OLIVER, Protector of the Republ. of England, &c. To the most Serene and Potent Prince Charles Gustavus King of Sweedland, &c.

Most Ssrene and Potent King, Friend and dearest Confed•…•…rate▪

AS often as the councels and various artifices of the comon Enemy of Religion come under our deliberation, soe often do vvee enter into a consultation vvith our selves, and calculate hovv necessary and hovv con∣duceing to the future vvelfare of the Chri•…•…ian vvorld it vvoud be, if the Protestant Princes did among themselves, and more especially your Ma∣jesty and this Republick, engage in a very strict alliance, in order to the easy disappointing of the projects of the adversary. The subject of our conversation vvith your Embassadours, ever since first they came hi∣ther to treat about this busynesse, has evidenc'd unto'em, hovv ear•…•…e∣stly

and painfully have our vvishes been, and withall hovv much it vvoud have ansvverd our aime, if ours, and the Concernes of Sweedland were putt into such a condition and posture, as that the said alliance might be settled under such an establishment, as might answer both partys expecta tions equally, and enable'em to be in a capacity of supplying each other with timely help upon any emergent occasion. Nor were they wanting on their parts, who exercised that prudence and dilligence in this, which they usually observed in all the rest of their sollicitations. But we have been soe taken up in looking a•…•…ter the Treachery of some insolent people at home, (who tho often forgiven, yet imbark upon new attempts and desist not in conjunction of Rebells (and those Spaniards too) to ven∣ture upon Resolutions wherein they were often shaken & defeated) that, employed in removeing of Domestick dangers, we coud not hitherto apply that care (which vve wished we might) or intire help to the co∣mon defence of Religion. Yet what we coud have done, we have (as farr as we were able) carefully perform'd before, and if vve are appre∣hended capable of conduceing Ought, that may be thought of future ser∣vice to Your Majesties affaires, vve shall be not onely vvilling, but also ready to joyne vvith you to the utmost, upon any occasion in the promo∣tion of it. Wee do (in the mean time) congratulate, and from our hearts vvish you Joy in your most prudently and resolutely managed enterprizes: and continue our constant prayers to God, that he vvoud be pleased to enable your course of felicity and victory to be permanent to the service of his Glory.

Dated at our Court at Westminster June An. Dom. 1658.

OLIVER, Protector of the Republ. of England, &c. To the most Serene Prince, the King of Portugal.

Most Serene King, Friend, and Confederate,

JOhn Buffield of London, Marchant complains of his haveing deliver'd in the Year 1649. certain Comodities to Antony Jones & Manuel Ferdi∣nand •…•…astaneo of Tamarin, to be by them disposed of by sale, and to be, ac∣cordi•…•…g to the custome among 〈◊〉〈◊〉, accounted for with him: That Fallin•…•…, in his way to England, into the hands of Pirats, and sufficient∣ly damaged; the said Anthony and Manuel, upon an account had there∣of,

and beleeveing that he was dead, looked upon the said Goods as their owne, and accordingly retaine 'em hitherto, denying to come to any account for 'em; And subsequent to this fraud, exposed the said English Goods to open sale; the better to paliate their designe: Of his being himselfe forc't at length to repair in the depth of last Winter to Portugal to challenge his owne; but in vaine; for that he cou'd not prevaile with these Persons to returne him either Goods, or Money; But found them (which is to be wondered at) justifying the private possession of these Goods, with the pretence of their being the result of a publick sale: Being a stranger, and haveing to do with a People in their owne C•…•…un∣try (which is worse) he appealed to Your Majesty, and humbly peti∣tiond for his Judgement; who is appointed to the decision of differences relating to the English; but was sent back again by Your Majesty to that Court, that had rejected him. Which albeit it is in it selfe an act full of iujustice, yet in regard it is apparent that these Tamiran Merchants have incroached upon the reputation of that publick Edict of yours, in perver∣ting its intent to serve their owne fraudulent Ends: It is our earnest re∣quest to Your Majesty, that the cause of these Persons, whose afflictions are manifold thro the poverty which they are reduced unto, be wholly re∣ferr'd, (as the effect of your Clemency) to the Determination of the proper Judge: Whereby, the unfortuna•…•…e may rescue the remainder of theirfortunes out of the hands of such a perfidious society, which (the thing, being apparent and clear) we doubt not of Your Majesties concurring with us in.

Dated at our Court at Westminster, August A. D. 1658.

To the most Serene Prince Leopald, Arch - Duke of Austria, Praesident to Philip, King of Spaine▪ now in Flanders.

Most Serene Sir,

CHarles Harbert, Knt; Petitioned unto us; that haveing directed the transportation of some certain Goods and other houshold stuff out of Holland into Bruges, within your Jurisdiction, to prevent their being taken from him by forme of injustice, is unexpectedly fallen into the ha∣sard of looseing the same; Videlicet by the means of the Earle o•…•… Suf∣folcke,

for whom the P•…•…titioner being engaged for the Payment of con∣siderable Sumes of Money, and haveing in the Year 1643. sent out of England the said Goods as a security to the Petitione•…•…, to answer any de•…•…and, which might be made upon him, upon the account of the said obligation: Richard Greenwill, one of the order of Knihthood also, broke in into the place, where they were laid up, seized and keepes'em, in violation of the Termes under which they came into the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 possession: Under this pretence of Right onely, that there remain'd due •…•…o 〈◊〉〈◊〉 〈◊〉〈◊〉 know not what from Theophilus •…•…arle of Suffolcke deceased, by vertue of a decree of our Court of Chancry, and th•…•…t those Goods, as bein•…•… the said E•…•…rles, were Subject to the said decree, and therefore ar•…•…ested them: Whereas according to our Lawes, the said Earle, who now is, and whose Goods these are, nor is obliged b•…•… that decree, nor oug•…•…t •…•…is Goods to be liable to seisure or restraint upon it's score; as appeares by the Sentence of the said Court herewi•…•… sent you, at the request of the said Charles Harbert. We pray your Highnsse to see the said Goods forthwith discharged from all restraint, as well as from the unjust action of the said. Richard Greenwill: in regard it is a thing soe plainly contrary to the Lawes and practice of Nations to give way to the legality of an action in another Land, which in the Land, where the cause of the action originally arose, canot be lawfully allowed of. The Consideration of Justice it selfe, and the reputation which you have abroad of an upright man, has induced us to recomend this cause to your Highnesse. Which if it falls out at any time, that the Right or Concernes of your Sub•…•…ects come under debate with us in this kind, assure your sel•…•…e of finding u•…•… 〈◊〉〈◊〉 way slack; but rather very r•…•…dy to serve you upon all occasions.

Westminster.

Your Highness's most affectionately OLIVER, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of the Republick of England, &c▪

To t•…•… High Court of Parliament at Paris.

WEe the Commiss•…•…yes of the great Seale of England make it our re∣quest •…•…o the hig•…•…▪ Court of Parliament at Paris, that it woud be intre∣ated •…•…o s•…•…e care taken, that Miles, William and Mary Sandys Children of 〈◊〉〈◊〉 〈◊〉〈◊〉 and Ellsabeth soame his wife lately dece•…•…sed, English Natives and under age; be at Liberty forthwith to repaire to us hither from Pa•…•…is where they now remaine under the Tuition & Guarranty of the said Court: comitting them to the care of James Mowath a Scoth man, and a person of integrity and uprightnesse, to whom we have as∣sign'd this trouble of takeing them thence and bringing of'em hither: engageing that upon any the like occasion or demand, the like Right and Justice shall be by this Court administred in favour of any of the Subjects of France.