Memorials of the English affairs, or, An historical account of what passed from the beginning of the reign of King Charles the First, to King Charles the Second his happy restauration containing the publick transactions, civil and military : together with the private consultations and secrets of the cabinet.

December, 1648.

[1.] The General Wrote a Letter to the Lord * 1.1 Mayor, and Common Council of London, to this effect:

That being upon an immediate advance with the * 1.2 Army towards London, they thought fit to give them notice of it, and for the grounds thereof, refer them to the late Remonstrance and Declaration of the Army.

That they are far from the least plunder or wrong to any, and for the better prevention of any disorder, they desire forty thousand pound may be paid to them to morrow night, and they will quarter in the void and great Houses, in and about the City.

A report by the Commissioners of all his Ma∣jesties * 1.3 concessions at the Treaty, twice read over, and long and smartly debated.

About two a Clock the question was put, whe∣ther they should then debate, whether his Ma∣jesties answers and concessions were satisfactory or dissatisfactory, and carried in the Negative, and Ordered to resume the debate to morrow morning.

The Lord Wenman, M^r Holles, and M^r Pierre∣point, three of the Commissioners who came last to the Town, had the thanks of the House for their great pains and care, in managing of the Treaty.

A Committee of the Common Council ac∣quainted the House with the Letter they received from the General; upon which the Common Coun∣cil would not do any thing, till they knew the pleasure of the House.

After a long debate till eight a Clock at Night it was voted: That the House taking notice of the great arrears due from the City of London to the Army, do declare, that it is the pleasure of * 1.4 the House, that the City do forthwith provide forty thousand pound of their arrears, upon se∣curity of the said arrears.

And that the House doth leave it to the City, either by Committee or Letter, or otherwise as they shall think sit to address themselves to the General.

And that a Letter be written to the General upon the heads of this daies debate, and that he be acquainted therein, that it is the pleasure of the House, that he do not remove the Army nearer to Lon∣don.

In all places they were full of trouble upon the Army's advance towards London, and strange were the turnings and perplexities of these times.

[2.] A long and high debate all day upon the King's Concessions and answers in the Treaty, but no vote passed, and the further debate of it put off till to morrow Morning.

The General and his Army marched to London, and took up their quarters in White-Hall, S^t James's, the Mues, York-house, and other vacant Houses, and in villages near the City.

The City sent a Letter to the General that they * 1.5 will do their utmost to levy the arrears of the assessment to the Army, and at present advance some thousands of pounds to pay quarters, but desire the Souldiery may be removed further from London, and to have a right understanding, which was promised to them

[4.] The House being upon the debate of the * 1.6 Kings concessions and answers in the Treaty, a Let∣ter came to the Speaker from the Officers deputed by Colonel Hammond, to take the charge of his Ma∣jesty, that the King was removed from thence to Hurst-Castle, by order of the General and Coun∣cil of the Army.

That their orders were to secure the person of the King, till they should receive resolution from the Houses upon their late Remonstrance, and they had orders to use his Majesty with all civility.

The House upon reading this Letter, voted that the Seising upon the person of the King, and carrying him Prisoner to Hurst-Castle, was without the advice or consent of the House.

After this, they again debated the Kings an∣swers, but came to no resolution.

Letters from the Leaguer before Pontefract, * 1.7 that the Garrison have many sick, but have plenty of provisions; that Major General Lambert is left to command the Leaguer, the Lieutenant General Cromwell being come to London.

That the Garrison in Scarborough are in a mu∣tiny, * 1.8 because the Governour will not surrender it to the Parliament, and are in want of provi∣sions.

Letters from Ireland, that the Marquess of An∣trim * 1.9 hath relinquished the Lord Ormond, and is declared Generalissimo of the Popish interest there. Variance increased betwixt Antrim and Ormond.

The Souldiers behaved themselves with un∣usual Civility.

[5.] Although the House sate all the last Night, yet they were in the same debate again early this morning, and voted:

That his Majesties concessions to the propositions of * 1.10 the Parliament upon the Treaty, are Sufficient grounds for setling the Peace of the Kingdom, and they named a Committee to go this after-noon to the head quarters, to confer with the General

and the Officers of his Army for continuance of a good correspondency between the Parliament and the Army.

The General caused a Proclamation to be made by beat of Drum and sound of Trumpet, to re∣quire all Delinquents to depart ten Miles from * 1.11 London, for a month, else to be proceeded a∣gainst as Prisoners of War.

And another Proclamation, that his Souldiers demean themselves civilly and peaceably, not giving any just offence or provocation by language or otherwise, on pain of severe Punishment.

And not to do any unlawful violence to the persons or goods of any, upon pain of Death, and no Officer to be absent from his charge without leave upon such pain, as the Party injured should sustain.

None of the Souldiers were quartered in the City, the General sent to them for Beds, and firing for the Souldiers, and for Money; but none came.

Many were glad of an honest pretence to be excused from appearing in the House, because of the business of the Army; the debates about which went extream high.

[6.] The Regiment of Horse of Colonel Rich, and of Foot of Colonel Pride, were set for Guards for the Houses, and the City Trained-Bands dis∣charged.

Colonel Pride drew up divers of his Foot in the Court of Requests upon the Stairs, and in * 1.12 the Lobby before the House, and as the Members were coming in to go into the House. Colonel Pride having a paper of names in his hand, and one of the Door-keepers, and sometimes the Lord Grey of Groby standing by him, and infor∣ming him who the Members were, the Colonel seised upon such of them as he was directed by his Note, and sent them away with Souldiers, some to the Queens Court, and Court of Wards, and other places, by special order from the Gene∣ral and Councel of the Army.

The House of Commons being informed here∣of sent their Sergeant at Arms to the Members so seised upon, to acquaint them, it was the plea∣sure of the House that they should forthwith attend the service of the House: but the Officers under whose Guard they were still detained them.

The Committee sent to the General, made their report, that he desired time to advise with his * 1.13 Councel of War about his answer, and the same Committee were ordered again to attend the General and the Army, for his answer.

Colonel Axtell brought a Message from the Army to the House, that they had somewhat to present to the House which would be ready for their present view: the House caused him to be called in again, and he delivered his Message to them the second time, and their answer was that the House will be ready to receive it.

Not long after Colonel Whaley and other Offi∣cers presented the desires of the Army to the House, desiring their speedy consideration of them.

The Officers being withdrawn, the House named a Committee to treat with the General and his Councel of War about the discharge of their Members, and to make their report with all speed.

The proposals and desires of the Army to the House, were to this effect:

That having for a long time sadly beheld and ta∣sted * 1.14 in the Houses proceedings the miserable fruits of Councils divided, and corrupted by factions and personal interest, and seeing no better, or other way, they propound and demand as followeth: Whereas Denzil Hollis Esq Lionel Copley Esq Major General Massey, and other of your Members, were in 1647. impeached by your selves of treason, or high crimes in relation to the Treasonable ingagement in the City of London, the violence then done to the Par∣liament, the Levying of a new War, and other evils.

And upon clear proofs against them, they were by your censure expelled the House, and disabled from further trust therein, and upon new Writs issued out, new Members were chosen, and returned in their rooms.

Yet by the prevalency of their faction, when in the last summers War divers faithful Members were ingaged abroad, and others through tumults could not safely attend, the same persons were after∣wards readmitted to sit in the House, and Vote as formerly, without any trial or satisfaction in the things whereof they were accused.

2. Whereas by the confederacy of Major Gene∣ral Brown, now Sheriff of London, with the said impeached Members and others, the Scots were in∣vited and drawn in to invade this Kingdom the last Summer, and the House upon their actual invasion, proceeded to declare them enemies, and those that ad∣hered to them, Traytors.

Yet those Confederate and other Treacherous Members, to the number of ninety and odd (as upon the division of the House appeared) did by their Counsels and Votes endeavour to hinder the House from declaring against their confederate Inva∣ders.

We desire that the said Major General Brown may be also secured and brought to judgement. And that the rest of the ninety and odd Persons, dissent∣ing against the said Ʋote, may be excluded the House.

3. Whereas in a continued series of your proceed∣ings, for many Months together, we have seen the prevalence of the same treacherous, corrupt and divi∣ded Council, through Factions and private interest, opposing or obstructing Justice, and hindring a set∣tlement, as in several Votes, &c. And lastly, in the Votes declaring the Kings past Concessions, to be a ground for the settlement of peace, notwithstanding the insufficiency and defects of them. We therefore most humbly desire, that all such faithful Members who are innocent in these things, would immediately by protestation and publick Declaration acquit them∣selves from any guilt of, or concurrence in, the se∣veral Votes or Counsels before particularly mentioned, as corrupt or destructive.

That the Kingdom may know who have kept their trust and who have satisfied the same, and that such as shall not so acquit themselves, may be excluded or suspended the House, till they have given clear satis∣faction therein.

4. That such as by faithfulness have retained their trust, being set in a condition to pursue the same without interruptions and depravations of Councels, we desire and hope you will speedily and vigorously proceed to take order for the execution of Justice, and to set a short period to your own power, to pro∣vide for a speedy succession of equal Representatives, according to our late Remonstrance, wherein diffe∣rences in the Kingdom may be ended, and we and others may comfortably acquiesce, as for our parts, we hereby ingage and assure you we shall.

This day was the second general Seal, and by the way as the Commissioners went to Westmin∣ster, before White-Hall were two Troops of Horse of the Army; And in the New Palace-Yard and Old Palace-Yard were many companies of Foot, and Troops of Horse drawn up.

When the Commissioners alighted at the door of the Lords House, there stood two Troopers who denied them entrance till an Officer came; and when they told the Officer that they were going about business of the Chancery, he let them pass.

The Court of Requests, and the stairs to the House of Commons, and towards the Hall were very full of Souldiers, yet they went up into the Queens Court.

Whilst they were advising what to do (and they were all of opinion to sit in Court) the Lord Grey of Groby came to them, and perswaded them to sit in Court; which they did, without the Seal, and heard some Motions.

After which Sir Thomas Widdrington was cal∣led away by Sir John Evelyn and the rest of the Committee, to go to the General, yet they sate and heard some Motions, till M^r Love, a Mem∣ber of the House, and one of the six Clerks, came to them into the Court, and brought an Intimation (as he said) from the House that they should not sit, in regard that Clients and Coun∣cel could not with freedom attend.

Thereupon they rose, and the Lords desired Whitelock to go into the House to know their pleasure, which service he undertook, and the more willingly, to try what countenance he might have from the Souldiers then at the door.

He past by Colonel Pride without any questio∣ning of him, but Pride had then seized upon ma∣ny Members of the House as they were going in, and secured them in the Queens Court, who sent from thence to the House to acquaint them with the Condition they were in.

Whitelock acquainted the Speaker, and divers others of the House with the Intimation re∣ceived from them not to sit in Court, which some apprehended, might too much reflect upon the Army, as if they did interrupt the course of Ju∣stice; And he prayed their direction, what they should do in this matter.

These were of opinion that by all means the Commissioners should sit in Chancery and pro∣ceed in their business.

With this advice Whitelock returned to the Lords Commissioners, the Lords staied in the little Room by the Chancery, and after he came to them, they went into the Room in the Court of Wards, till Sir Thomas Widdrington came to them, whither the Seal was brought without any trouble, though the Souldiers were very strict in guarding their Prisoners.

The Commissioners sate till six at night, by which time the Souldiers were all gone, and the Members of the House (thirty nine in number) who were seised upon were carried away to pla∣ces of confinement.

This was a sad and most disorderly days work, and many were troubled not only for their friends who were thus secured, but what to resolve upon in relation to themselves after this action.

Lieutenant General Cromwel came into the House, and had their hearty thanks for his great services to both Kingdoms.

Order for Sergeant Earle to go to Norwich to execute the Commission of Oyer and Terminer, and Gaol delivery, and that M^r Hugh Audely the Sheriff of that County do attend there like∣wise.

Divers Members of the House were forbid entrance into the House, because some matters * 1.15 were to be debated concerning themselves; Sir Edward Patridge, M^r Dodderidge and Sir Thomas Dacres, some of them wrote a Letter to the Speaker to acquaint the House therewith.

They ordered the Committee formerly named to go to the General and endeavour a good un∣derstanding between the Parliament and Army, and to treat concerning the restitution of their Members under restraint.

Upon a debate, Voted to take into consideration the Remonstrance and Proposals of the Army the next day but one; and the next day (to morrow) to be kept a day of humiliation for the House.

Several Members were at a stand whether they should any more attend the House, or not: in regard of the violence offered to many of them, and that it could not be esteemed a free Parlia∣ment.

Many of these upon debate and advice of friends, and considerations that they were cho∣sen by their Country to serve for them in this Par∣liament, and that the violence was not offered to these, but to other Members, whereof these were not made the Judge, nor was it left in their power to desert the Parliament, and their trust, whilst they might have liberty to continue in that service. These reasons perswaded many to continue in that trust and service.

The Commissioners of the Seal met this mor∣ning at Westminster, but in regard of the pre∣sent troubles, put off their causes and returned home.

More of the Members of the House of Com∣mons were this day seised upon and secured.

[8.] The solemn Fast was kept in the House, and a collection made of money for poor Souldiers wives, and widows, and the House Adjourned till the eleventh of this Month.

By order from the general and general Coun∣cil * 1.16 of the Army, two Regiments of Foot, and several Troops of Horse were quartered in Lon∣don, and the Treasuries secured in Haberdashers-Hall, Weavers-Hall, and Goldsmiths-Hall, where∣of the General by his Letter acquainted the Lord Mayor and City before hand.

And gave his reasons for the doing of it be∣cause they had not paid their arrears of the Assess∣ment, nor furnished the Money which he desired of them, and that they had by order of Parlia∣ment quartered in several Counties, on those who did not pay the Assessment till they paid the same. That yet if they would advance for the Army forty thousand pound in part of their ar∣rears, the Souldiers should not be further trou∣blesome to them.

A party of Souldiers going by mistake to the Excise House to seize the Money there, the Ge∣neral recalled them, and wrote a Letter to the Commissioners of Excise to excuse it.

[9.] A Committee of the Common Council made some proposals to the General and Council of the * 1.17 Army, touching their security for forty thou∣sand pounds which the General demanded of them, which they promised to advance, and humbly desired that the Army might this night with∣draw out of the City.

To this the General answered, that if within fourteen days the City would pay in all their ar∣rears of the Assessment, that then the Army should withdraw; but that in the mean time their quartering in the City would facilitate the work.

The Foot were quartered in private Houses, the Horse in Inns, and two more Regiments marched into the City and took up their quarters there this day.

[11.] The Houses sate not, but to the General * 1.18 and general Council of the Army, was ••resen∣ted,

a new Representative, or an agreement of the people, propounded as a Rule for future govern∣ment, to be published to the view of all, that any might offer what they thought fit against it, or of alteration, or addition to any part of it.

Much of the same matter was contained there∣in, as in their late Remonstrance, this was more large, giving rules for future Elections of Repre∣sentatives of the people, they to have the supream authority, and this Parliament to be dissolved in April next, and then a new Representative to sit.

Divers Rules for the Election of them, Officers and Malignants to be incapable of electing, or be∣ing elected, and generally of the power, and equal distribution of the Members of this Re∣presentative, to be in all three hundred Persons, &c.

The frame of this agreement of the people, was thought to be for the most part made by Commissary General Ireton, a man full of inven∣tion, * 1.19 and industry, who had a little knowledg of the Law, which led him into the more errours.

Little business in the Chancery. The Lord Grey of Groby came to the Lord Grey, one of the Commissioners, and wished them not to sit to morrow, because it would be a busy day. It seems he was acquainted with the private Coun∣cils of the Army.

They advised together about this matter, and resolved to meet to morrow at Westminster, and to do as they should see cause, as to the hear∣ing of Motions, or other business of the Chan∣cery.

[12.] Both Houses sate, the Commons order∣ed two Troops of Horse in Northamptonshire, to be continued for a Month longer, under Major Butler and Captain Strike.

Petitions from Bristol and Exon complaining of the neglect of guarding those Coasts; that ten Merchants Ships had been taken by the Irish the last week, the Petitions referred to the Committee of the Navy.

A Letter from the Lord Admiral of the grounds of his coming from Goree to the Downes, to avoid the danger of being frozen up, and because he wanted Victual, referred to the Committee of the Navy.

Vpon debate of the last proposals and desires of the Army Voted, That the Vote for revoking the * 1.20 Order of disabling the eleven Members, and re-admit∣ting them into the House, when a charge of so high a nature lay against them, was un-Parliamentary, and of dangerous consequence, and was now made Null.

They Voted likewise, that the Vote of this House, concurring with the Lords, to take off the former Vote, which forbid any more addresses to the King, was highly dishonourable to the proceedings of Par∣liament, and apparently destructive to the good of the Kingdom.

Major General Brown, Sir Jo. Clotworthy, Sir William Waller, Colonel Massey, and Colonel * 1.21 Copley, were apprehended by the Army and sent Prisoners to S^t James's House; M^r Pelham, M^r Vaughan, and some other of the Members that were Prisoners, had liberty given upon their Paroles.

The City sent in Beds for the Souldiers, where∣upon, the General ordered them to be removed from private Houses, and Quartered in empty Houses.

Letters from Ireland that the Marquess of Ormond was piecing up the differences among the Rebels, and that their main design was against Dublin.

[13.] Voted, that the Votes of non-Addresses to the King shall stand; and that the Votes for revoca∣tion of them, and that for a personal Treaty with the King in the Isle of Wight, were highly dishonoura∣ble * 1.22 to the proceedings of Parliament, and apparently dectructive to the good of the Kingdom.

Letters with the Catalogue of twenty Com∣manders who were for the Parliament, lately come in to the Lord Ormond.

Several Members did forbear going to the House, not being satisfied whether they might with a safe conscience be in the House or not, having such a force upon them, and lest they should countenance that force. On the other side they considered whether it were fit for such as had no force upon them, and were not forbidden to be in the House to be absent, and wholly to omit their duty, or rather to continue therein, whereby they might help to keep up the Parlia∣ment, lest it should be dissolved, which the Souldiers wished, and thereby the whole power be given up into the hands of the Army. Sir Thomas Widdrington did forbear going to the House this day.

[14.] Referred to the Committee of the Army to confer with the General and Officers of the Army how the last six Months Assessment may be raised and payed to the Souldiers.

Order for two hundred pound for Colonel Ewers now Governor of Hurst Castle.

Order to repeal the former Ordinance for set∣ling the Militia, it being made upon design to de∣stroy * 1.23 the present Army, and that a new Ordinance be brought in for the Militia.

Debate of a Letter to be sent to the General to desire that a charge may be brought in against * 1.24 such of their Members not admitted to sit, a∣gainst whom they have any matter; and that the rest against whom they have no matter may have the freedom to sit in the House.

Letters from Hurst Castle that his Majesty * 1.25 was in health, and had good accommodations; that he desired of the Governour to have two of his own Chaplains to pray and preach with him, and to have liberty to write to the Queen, and to the Prince.

[15.] Debate touching provisions for the Na∣vy, and orders for pay for Ships, and for two Months gratuity for the Marriners, who served against the revolted Ships.

Referred to a Committee to inquire who printed and contrived a scandalous Pamphlet, called A Solemn Declaration of the Members secluded the * 1.26 House by the Army, That all Acts, Ordinances, Votes and proceedings of the House of Commons since the Seclusion of the Members, and continuance of the Armies force upon it, are no way obligatory, but null and void.

The House declared it to be False, Scandalous, and Seditious, and tending to destroy the Govern∣ment; and that all who had a hand in it, shall be uncapable of any Office, or trust, or to be a Member of Parliament; and that every absent Member before he sit, shall disavow that Pam∣phlet.

The Army past a Declaration, that whereas some * 1.27 enemies had written to Merchants beyond Seas, to call home their estates out of England, because the Army had seised upon mens goods, and designed to destroy all Trade and propriety, the Army declare against it, and that they will maintain and preserve both ac∣cording to Law, and with all freedom.

[16.] The new Ordinance for the Militia transmitted to the Lords.

Another that no Malignants be elected, or E∣lectors

of the Lord Mayor, Aldermen, and Com∣mon-Council Men of London.

A party of Horse went to Hurst Castle to re∣move the King to Windsor Castle.

The General Council of the Army sate upon the agreement of the people.

Colonel Butlers Troop, and Major Finchers were disbanded.

[18.] The Lords concurred in the Ordinance with the Commons for disabling Malignants to * 1.28 be elected, or Electors of the Lord Mayor, Al∣dermen, and Common-Council Men, or any other Officers, or places of trust, on pain of two hun∣dred pound, one half of it to the Informer, and the other half to the Maimed Souldiers.

A Sheriff of Nottinghamshire appointed.

A Committee appointed to draw up an expedi∣ent * 1.29 for the Members of the House, to subscribe, as Dissenters to the Vote, That the Kings answer to the propositions, was a ground of peace.

Order for the Sergeant at Arms to apprehend Sir Charles Kemish, for staying in Town contrary to the Ordinance, he being a Delinquent.

Both Houses agreed of a list of Persons to attend the King.

A day of Humiliation appointed for the two Houses, and M^r Cokayn and M^r Bond to preach, and M^r Foxley to pray.

Intelligence of a new Fleet preparing by the Prince, for Scilly, Guernsey, and Jersey, and for Ireland, and many discontented Persons and Re∣formadoes resorting to him.

A Committee named to confer with the Lord Admiral about this matter.

Letters came to the General from Major Ge∣neral Lambert and his Officers, in complyance * 1.30 with the Armies Remonstrance by the Forces in the North; and desiring a correspondence with the Army, to whom they gave some cautions touching the prosecution of their Remon∣srance.

When the Chancery business was over, Sir Tho∣mas Widdrington and Whitelock went to the Rolls, by appointment, where Lieutenant General Crom∣wel and Colonel Dean met them; And with the Speaker they had a long discourse together about the present affairs. And then another time was appointed by the Lieutenant General for them to meet again, and to consider and confer how the settlement of the Kingdom might be best effected, and to joyn Counsels for the publick good.

[19.] An Ordinance past for the payment of twenty eight thousand pound taken by the Soul∣diers out of Weavers-Hall.

Referred to a Committee to consider of the great abuse in providing bad victuals for the Ships, and how the persons may be punished, and the like prevented.

Upon a Letter from the General referred to a Committee to consider how the arrears due to Colonel Rainsborough, may be charged and paid to his wife.

An Ordinance past both Houses for making the Earl of Pembroke Constable of the Castle and honour of Windsor, and Keeper of the Forrest and great Park there.

Order for levying the arrears of Deliquents com∣positions, being two hundred thousand pound.

Letters from Scarborough of the hopes of a speedy surrender of that place; and that the Scots are not well pleased with the late transactions of the Army in England.

The Parliaments Ships upon the Coast of Ire∣land, took a Dutch Ship loaden with Wine, Salt, &c. of three hundred Tun, bound for Waterford. The Cessation was continued in Ireland between the Marquess of Ormond, and the Rebels.

Mr. Pierrepoint expressed much dissatisfaction at those Members who sate in the House, and at the proceedings of the General and Army.

A visit to Lieutenant General Cromwell, who lay in one of the Kings rich beds in White-hall.

[20.] An Additional Ordinance past, for election of the Lord Mayor, Aldermen, and Com∣mon Council men of London.

The Committee appointed to attend the Ge∣neral * 1.31 about the Secluded Members, reported his answers, that the business was of great concernment, and he believed the House would not expect a present answer from him, but he would prepare it as speedily as he could, and in the mean time, desired the House * 1.32 would not trouble themselves, to send any more to him, concerning that business.

Order for the same Message to be renewed to the General.

The House approved of what the Committees of Nottingham, and Derby had done for relief of the Forces before Scarborough and Pontefract.

Sixteen of the secluded Members were set at li∣berty by order of the General to sit again in the House if they please, and the rest were still in custody.

Two new Listed Souldiers in Colonel Deans Regiment with two more, took upon them to apprehend a Citizen of London, under pretence of a Warrant from the Council of War, and that they had a great Charge against him, when there was no such matter, but they designed by this means to get money of him.

The Citizens acquainted some of the Council of War herewith, who disowned the business, caused the Souldiers to be apprehended, two of them ran away, the other two were sentenced to ride the wooden horse at the Exchange, and to run the Gantlet.

[21.] Order for repayment of the money taken out of Weavers-Hall, to be for the use of the Navy.

A Petition from divers of Somersetshire, that * 1.33 justice may be done upon Delinquents, the Petitioners had the thanks of the House, and the Petition was ordered to be printed.

Order that M^r Strickland use the best endeavours he may to hinder the intended Sale in the Low Countries by the Prince, of the Ordnance of the revolted Ships.

Both Houses past an Ordinance concerning Lieutenant Colonel Lilburne.

In the after-noon the Speaker, Lieutenant Gene∣ral Cromwell, Sir Thomas Widdrington and M^r White∣lock by appointment met about six a Clock, and discoursed freely together about the present af∣fairs, and actions of the Army, and the settlement of the Kingdom.

In the conclusion Sir Thomas Widdrington and M^r Whitelock were desired to draw up some heads upon the discourse, to be considered by the same Company.

[22.] Both Houses kept the Solemn Fast this day.

The General Council of the Army had much * 1.34 debate concerning the matters of Religion, re∣lating to their new Representative, and of the power of the Representative in Civils.

Sir Thomas Widdrington and M^r Whitelock met, staid all the day together to draw some heads upon yesterdaies discourse, and to endeavour to bring the Army into some fitter temper.

They were likewise to frame somewhat in or∣der

to the restitution of the Secluded Members, for an answer for the Army to the Messages of the House to the Army, touching their Members un∣der restraint, and heads for a Declaration, what the Parliament intendeth for the settlement of the Kingdom, to be considered of, and offered to the Parliament and Council of the Army.

This was a work of no small difficulty, and danger, yet at this time not to be declined by them, both the Members of the House, and chief Officers of the Army, having ingaged and trusted them only therein, they prayed to God to di∣rect them in it, and that neither of them might receive any prejudice, but the Kingdom might receive good by this their imployment, and the Courses of the Army be moderated (as it was in some measure at this time) though it brake out a∣gain into violence afterwards.

[23.] A Committee of the Common Council informed the House, that the Citizens of London, * 1.35 were so generally ingaged in the Petition for a per∣sonal Treaty, that if the restriction in the late Or∣dinance should stand, that none of them should be capable to be elected Officers of the City, there would want sufficient persons to be chosen to sup∣ply necessary Offices in the City.

Referred to a Committee to consider of some expedient in this business.

A sharp debate about bringing the great Delin∣quents of the Kingdom to speedy punishment.

And now was set on Foot, and begun their great design of taking away the King, whom di∣vers * 1.36 in the debate did not stick to name, for the greatest Delinquent, and to be proceeded against in Justice.

Others insisted upon it, that he was not ca∣pable * 1.37 of being brought to justice by his Subjects, but by God alone; and that having subdued him and his Party, there was no need of any thing fur∣ther, but to secure the Parliament from their E∣nemies rising against them any more; and that might be done without bringing the King to any judicial tryal; a thing not read of in any History.

But those of the fierce Party prosecuted their design with all eagerness; and those of a con∣trary opinion, either durst not oppose, knowing they should be presently secluded the House if they did, or seeing that no opposition would be to any effect or purpose.

It was endeavoured wholly to have put the bu∣siness upon the Army, that if they would have the thing done, they should do it themselves, as most proper for such an irregular and unheard of business, to be done in an irregular way, and by such irregular men; but they were subtle enough to see, and avoid that, and to make those whom they left sitting in the Parliament to be their stalcs, and to do their most dirty work for them; many of whom they found, and perswaded to be strangely forward to ingage in it.

Insomuch, that it was carryed by vote in the House of Commons, to name a Committee of thirty eight persons to consider of drawing up a charge; and for that purpose to receive all infor∣mations, and examinations of all Witnesses, for the matters of fact against the King, and all other Delinquents, that may be thought sit to be brought to condigne punishment.

Letters from Colonel Bethel to the General of * 1.38 the surrender of Scarborough-Castle to him upon Articles for the use of the Parliament; that there was in the Castle good store of all manner of pro∣visions, especially Rye, and fifty Barrels of pow∣der with Ammunition for many Months.

From the Parliaments Ships in the Downes, came a Declaration to the General of their free Concurrence with the Army in their Remon∣strance, knowing the things to be just and good. * 1.39

The King was expected to be at Windsor this Night, and Colonel Thomlinson commanded the Guards about him, upon Colonel Harrisons coming away.

Major Pitsford taken at Pembroke, and staying here contrary to the Articles of surrender thereof, was by the Court Martial sentenced to be shot to Death.

The Lord Wenman expressed himself very high against the Army; having been seised, and se∣cluded the House by them; which was no small provocation.

Mr. Whitelock and Sir Thomas Widdrington went together according to appointment to the Speakers house.

There met them divers Gentlemen of the House, and they consulted about setling the King∣dom by the Parliament, and not to leave all to the Sword; and Sir Thomas Widdrington and M^r White∣lock spake their minds freely to them, some of them were wholly against any King at all, others were against having the present King, or his el∣dest, or second Son, to be King; others were for the third Son the Duke of Gloucester (who was among them, and might be educated as they should appoint) to be made King.

They came after a long debate to no resolution at all, but appointed to meet again on next Mon∣day.

[25.] The Commons sate though it was Christ-mas day, and made some Orders about the associ∣ation of Somersetshire with the adjacent Coun∣ties.

Order for one thousand pound for Mr. Withers, being moneys lent by him to the Parliament.

Five Members declared their dissent to the vote * 1.40 Dec. 5. 1648.

The Committee named to consider how to proceed in a way of justice against the King, were injoyned to meet this Afternoon.

Debate whether the secluded Members should be re-admitted.

A dispute between the two Houses, whether thirty three thousand pound formerly granted to the Lord Willoughby as Part of his arrears, and * 1.41 by him assigned to his Creditors who accepted the security, should now be granted away to o∣thers in prejudice of the Lord Willoughbys Cre∣ditors, which the Lords held not just.

The Lords who sate in the House being very few, they Ordered that all the Lords, who were within twenty miles should appear to morrow, and those more remote within fourteen days after receipt of this Order, some moved it might be un∣der the pain of five hundred pound, but that was not agreed unto.

A Petition to the Commons from Norfolk and * 1.42 Norwich, reciting the former, and present evils: and praying,

1. That present inquiry be made who have been the chief instruments of the King in the former or latter War, and in the late bringing in of the Scots, and that he himself, and all such as have been the most notorious incendiaries, and instruments in shed∣ding of blood, may without delay be brought to im∣partial Justice.

2. That Courts of Justice, Judges and Officers, and Fecs may be certain, and Laws in the vulgar tongue, and Justice be speedy, and without respect of persons, and as may most agree with the rule of Christian duty, just reason, and the birth-right and priviledge of En∣glish-men

and that impartial Commissioners be ap∣pointed to try the late Mutineers in Norwich, and Kent, and other Counties.

3. That course be taken for Payment of the publick debts out of Delinquents Estates, and that taxes may be made easy, and laid proportionably, and so levyed.

4. That Malignants be incapable of Offices, or being Parliament men; that under the notion of a Peer, we be not voted into ruine, by those that could not beat us into it, and that a Committee be ordained to order affairs of State in the intervals of Parliament.

5. That the power of the Militia be not put into the hands of Malignants or Neuters, but of faithful persons to the Parliament.

6. That the Army (whose faithfulness we acknow∣ledge) may be vindicated, especially for their late pro∣ceedings, in order to impartial justice upon the Capi∣tal Offender, the best means to establish this almost destroyed Nation; that free-quarter be taken away, and constant pay provided for the Army.

Another Petition was from the Garrison of Hull of their adherence to the late Remonstrance of the Army.

[26.] The House approved the Articles of surrender of Scarborough, and gave forty pound a piece to the Messengers that brought the news.

Mr. Elsing, Clerk of the Parliament desired to quit his place, by reason (as he alledged) of his * 1.43 indisposition of health to execute the same, but most men understood his reason to be (and he acknowledged it to Whitelock, and others of his friends) because he would have no hand in the bu∣siness against the King.

He was a man of very great parts, and ingenuous education, he had travelled much, and was very learned, especially in the Latin, French, and Italian Languages, and was a great Student, and a very just and honest man, and the most excellent Clerk, both to take, and express the sence of the House, that I believe ever sate there; so great a help to the Speaker, and to the House, in helping to state the questions, and to draw up the Orders free from exceptions, that it much conduced to the dispatch of business, and the service of the Parliament.

He was a particular friend of Whitelocks, and M^r Selden was fond of him.

The House ordered M^r Phelpes, formerly Clerk to the Committee of plundered Ministers, to of∣ficiate in M^r Elsing's place, and by a Deputation from him.

Upon the Petition of the East India Merchants, order for them to have leave to transport thirteen thousand pound in Bullion.

Order for procuring six thousand pound for provisions and service for the Navy.

Divers Petitions to the Commons, and to the General in complyance with the Armies Remon∣strance; among them one was to the General from * 1.44 Colonel Mackworth, and the Officers and Soul∣diers in Salop.

Inveighing against the personal Treaty, and con∣curring with the late Remonstrance of the Army, praying the General to continue to represent to the Commons, these desires of their friends, and not to hearken to the Counsels of their Enemies, and to make a present settlement without any more addresses to the King.

And that his Excellency would endeavour that justice may be done upon the Authors of our troubles, and blood-shed in the three Kingdoms, in some exem∣plary way, suitable to their crimes, and without re∣spect of persons.

That for taking off the grievances and burdens by free-quarter, unequal taxes, corrupt proceedings in Courts of Justice, and other gross miscarriages in go∣vernment to be reformed, they will depend upon the Ordinary remedy by Parliament, till God declare by evident demonstrations of his will, in the passages of his providence, that that extraordinary is to be resorted unto, which is never denyed in case of Extremity to any People.

They resolve, God strengthning them, to follow his Excellency, and the rest of those conductors raised up and Spirited for so great a work, through a Sea of bloud; to attain the fruition thereof.

Letters from Windsor, that his Majesty re∣moving * 1.45 from Hurst-Castle, when he came to Win∣chester, the Mayor and his brethren met him, de∣livered him the Mace, and made a speech to him; That the Commander of that party who guarded the King, told the Mayor, that the Parliament had voted no more addresses to the King on pain of high Treason; and by this address they made to him, that they were within the danger of being Traytors▪

That the Mayor and his brethren humbly asked pardon for it, excusing themselves, that they knew not any thing of that vote, and that they would be more cautious for the future.

Letters from Dublin, that they are quiet there, by reason of the distractions among the Rebels, whose divisions daily increase.

This Morning Sir Thomas Widdrington and Mr. * 1.46 Whitelock being together, Mr. Smith who was Clerk to the Committee for preparing the charge against the King, came to them with a Message from the Committee, that they required them to come to them this day, they having some matters of importance wherein they desired their advice, and assistance; and that they must not fail them.

They knew what the business was, and Whitelock told Sir Tho. Widdrington, that he was resolved not to meddle in that business about the Tryal of the King; it being contrary to his judgement, as he had declared himself in the House.

Sir Tho. Widdrington said, he was of the same judgment, and would have no hand in that busi∣ness, but he knew not whither to go, to be out of the way; and that the Committee might not know whither to send to him.

Whitelock replyed, that his Coach was ready, and he was this Morning going out of Town pur∣posely to avoid this business, and if he pleased to go with him, they might be quiet at his House in the Country till this business should be over, and he should be glad of his Company.

He willingly consented to go with Whitelock, and was not long in preparing himself for the journey.

[27.] The monthly Fast day, and neither of the Houses sate.

The Council of War ordered, that nothing be * 1.47 done upon the knee to the King, and that all ceremo∣nies of state to him be left off, and his attendance to be with fewer, and at less charge.

[28.] Order for the City of London to pro∣ceed to the electing a new Common Council, ac∣cording * 1.48 to the former Ordinance, by which Ma∣lignants are excluded. And that the illegal Oaths of Allegiance and Supremacy, and all o∣ther of the like nature be referred to a Com∣mittee, to the end they may for the future be ta∣ken away.

The Committee for drawing up a charge a∣gainst the King, and to consider of the manner of his Tryal, reported an Ordinance for attainting the King of high Treason, and for trying him by such Commissioners as should be named in the Ordi∣nance. The Charge was to this effect:

That Charles Stuart had acted contrary to his * 1.49

trust, in departing from the Parliament, setting up his standard, making a War against them, and there∣by been the occasion of much blood-shed, and misery, to the People whom he was set over for good; that he gave Commissions to Irish Rebels, and since was the oc∣casion of a second War, and had done contrary to the Liberties of the subject, and tending to the destruction of the fundamental Laws and liberties of this King∣dom.

This Ordinance was read the first time, and ordered to be read again the second time to mor∣row.

Order for the accounts of Colonel Aldrich, a Member of the House to be stated.

[29.] Orders touching the securing of six thousand pound to the Commissioners of the Customs, for the present use of the Navy.

An account to the House, what monies were in arrear from Delinquents, of their Compositions, referred to a Committee.

The Ordinance for impeaching the King, read the second time, and committed.

Major Pitcher who was violent against the Par∣liament in the War, and upon the Articles of the surrender of Worcester, was taken in Arms, and ingaged not to serve any more against the Parli∣ament,

Yet afterwards was taken in Arms again a∣gainst the Parliament, at the surrender of Pem∣broke, had quarter given upon mercy, and was to go out of the Kingdom for two years; and for not doing so, and now taken, he was by sentence of the Court Martial, executed, and shot to Death.

The Council of War sate at White-Hall, and fi∣nished the agreement of the People, and appointed a Committee to consider of a way for the Army to subscribe it.

A Woman out of Hartfordshire came to the Council of the Army, and acquainted them, that she had something from God to speak to them, and being admitted, she did much incourage them in their present proceedings.

A Petition from Jo. Lilburn, and others, ex∣pressing their dislike of some Articles of the agree∣ment * 1.50 of the People.

[30.] Petition of Mrs. Jennings against Mr. Jennings her Brother, a Member of Parliament, for refusing to pay her portion, or account, stan∣ding upon his priviledge of Parliament, referred to a Committee.

Order for two thousand five hundred pounds for M^r Smithby for Saddles, and other Horse-Fur∣niture.

Referred to the Committee for the Trial of the King, to insert the names of Commissioners, and to make a Special Provision in the Ordi∣nance, in case the King should refuse to plead to the Charge against him.

Debate whether the thanks of the House should be given to Mr. Watson, one of the Mini∣sters that preached before the House of Com∣mons the last Fast-day, and carried in the Nega∣tive, because he did not acknowledge the Parlia∣ment.

Mr. Brookes, the other Preacher had the thanks of the House, and it was debated, whether the * 1.51 Ordinance for Monthly Fasts should be repealed, and Fast-days appointed only as there should be occasion, but no result was made of it.

[31.] Mr. Owen Preached two excellent Ser∣mons. And upon discourse concerning the pre∣sent affairs of the Army, he seemed much to fa∣vour them, and spake in dislike of those Mem∣bers who voluntarily absented themselves from the House, having no particular force upon their persons.

All men were at a gaze what would be the is∣sue of such proceedings, some thought it best * 1.52 for them to be reserved as to their Opinion, finding every where too many talkers, and few with much judgment.

Notes

• * 1.1

  Army.
• * 1.2

  London.
• * 1.3

  Isle of Wight.
• * 1.4

  Army.
• * 1.5

  Army,
• * 1.6

  The King removed.
• * 1.7

  Pontefract.
• * 1.8

  Scar∣borough.
• * 1.9

  Ireland.
• * 1.10

  Vote.
• * 1.11

  Army.
• * 1.12

  C. Pride's force upon the House.
• * 1.13

  Army.
• * 1.14

  Army-Proposals.
• * 1.15

  Secluded Members.
• * 1.16

  Army.
• * 1.17

  City.
• * 1.18

  Agree∣ment of the people.
• * 1.19

  Ireton.
• * 1.20

  Army. Votes.
• * 1.21

  Army. Prisoners.
• * 1.22

  Vote.
• * 1.23

  Militia.
• * 1.24

  Army.
• * 1.25

  Hurst Ca∣stle.
• * 1.26

  Secluded Members.
• * 1.27

  Army-De∣claration.
• * 1.28

  Malignants
• * 1.29

  Expedient
• * 1.30

  Army.
• * 1.31

  Army.
• * 1.32

  Secluded Members.
• * 1.33

  Petition.
• * 1.34

  Army.
• * 1.35

  City.
• * 1.36

  Design against the King.
• * 1.37

  Debates.
• * 1.38

  Scar∣borough.
• * 1.39

  Navy.
• * 1.40

  Dissecting Member••.
• * 1.41

  Lord Willoughby.
• * 1.42

  Petition.
• * 1.43

  Mr. Elsing.
• * 1.44

  Petitions.
• * 1.45

  The King.
• * 1.46

  Widdring∣ton and Whitelok.
• * 1.47

  The King.
• * 1.48

  Allegiance.
• * 1.49

  Charge.
• * 1.50

  Lilburn.
• * 1.51

  Fasts.
• * 1.52

  Distracti∣ons.