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.

April, 1652.

[1.] Letters of Recruits Shiped for Ireland.

A Letter Signed by Gerald Fitz-Gerald, in be∣half of an Assembly of the Irish, in the Province of * 1.1 Leinster, to the Parliaments Commissioners for Ireland, setting forth the Calamities of War, and the blessings of Peace, and the good inclinations of the Com∣mon-wealth of England to give reasonable Conditions to those that shall submit to them.

He desires a safe Conduct for the Inhabitants of the several Provinces, to meet and choose Commissioners to Treat with and Propound such things to Commissioners to be appointed to meet with them, as may conduce to the Peace and Settlement of that Kingdom.

The Commissioners in Ireland, published a De∣claration in answer to this Letter.

That they cannot in Duty and Honour own that of Gerald Fitz-Gerald for an Authority, but declare,

That the settlement of the Affairs of Ireland, doth of right belong to the Common-wealth of England, the consideration whereof is at present before them.

2. That in the Settlement thereof the Parliament will make distinction of such Persons as have lived Peaceably, or having been misled, have since submitted to their Authority, and those who have acted, or abet∣ted the Murders, and Massacres of the Protestants, and such as adhered to them the first year of their Re∣bellion, or such as continue in Hostility.

3. That to grant safe Conducts to such as are in Ho∣stility against the Parliament, to meet and consult toge∣ther, is an Act to which the Commissioners cannot in Prudence consent.

4. That for such as are now in Arms, and are willing to lay them down, and submit to the Parliament upon timely application to the Parliaments Ministers here for particular places and persons, such moderate Terms will be consented unto, as men in their condition can in rea∣son expect.

Lieutenant-General Ludlow, by advice with the English Commissioners, and Field Officers of the Army, returned answer to the Earl of Clanrickards Letters.

That the power of ordering the Affairs of Ireland, * 1.2 belonged to the Parliament of England, who would not capitulate with those in Arms against them, but upon Application of particular Persons, such favour would

be shewed to them, as they should deserve, and should be reasonable.

[Anno 1652] The Commissioners from the Rebels presented another Paper to the English Commissioners, for a safe Conduct to such as should be appointed Com∣missioners by the Provinces to attend the Parlia∣ment.

To this, the Parliaments Commissioners made Answer.

That they do not hold it fit or reasonable to lay open their power, but such as shall submit, they have suffici∣ent Power to receive them into the Parliaments Fa∣vour.

As to the granting Passes to any to go to the Parlia∣ment, they hold it not fit, to such as contrary to their Duty are in Hostility against them.

[2.] Letters, That the Basse was delivered up to the Parliament, and in it all the Kirke Records, which much troubled the Clergy.

An Act passed for continuing Serjeant Bradshaw Chancellour of the Dutchy, and Bartholomew Hall Esq Attorney-General of the Dutchy.

[3.] An Act passed for removing Obstructi∣ons in the Sale of the Kings Lands, &c.

Letters, That the Dutch Ships had orders, if they met any English Ships, to bring them into their Harbors.

[5.] Letters of a Petty Rising of some High-landers, but their Commander, and a few of them being knockt down, the rest of them ran away.

That a Bloody Moss-Trooper was Condemned to be Hanged, and another by the Court-Martial to be Shot to Death, for killing a Scotch-woman.

That some English Troopers being pursued by some Moss-Troopers, who said they were of Col∣lonel Okey's Regiment, and Friends, and so they put up their Arms again, and rode on together, when suddenly the Moss-Troopers drew out their Pistols, and killed one of the Troopers, wounded another of them, and took the rest Prisoners, and afterwards in cold blood murdered Three of their Prisoners, and the Fourth miraculously escaped.

[6.] Letters of the low condition the Irish were brought unto; of John Fitz-Patrick an emi∣nent Rebel admitted to his submission to the Par∣liament; and of Clanrickards Letter for a Na∣tional Treaty; of the good service of Collonel Reynolds, and the other Officers and Soldiers in Ireland.

Of the Forces of the Parliament about Eniscortly, burning the Corn, and every Morning, the Hou∣ses * 1.3 they quartered in the night before, killed and took many Irish; That he was an idle Soldier, who had not a Veal, Lamb, Pig, Poultry, or all of them for his Supper; That they destroyed as much Provision, as would have kept many Thousands of the Irish till next Harvest.

That they took about 200 Garroons, 300 Cows, and 400 Sheep and Goats, and many Horse-men.

Of Contests between the Towns-men of Gal∣loway, and the Soldiery, the Earl of Clanrickard taking part with the Soldiery, and perswading the Town not to submit but to a National Treaty; the Town insist upon a Treaty for themselves.

Of Assents of more Shires and Boroughs in Scotland to the Ʋnion with England, transmitted to the Parliament.

The House passed Instructions about the Earl of Argyle, to the Council of State.

The Cracovian Catechisme reported to the * 1.4 House, and Voted by them to contain matters that are Blasphemous, Erroneous and Scandalous.

That all the Printed Copies of that Book be burned.

Mr. Primate upon his Petition was discharged.

Order for 4000 l. to Repair Dover Pear and Harbour.

That Commissioners were in Treaty about the Surrender of Galloway.

The Dutch Imbargoe taken off from the English Ships.

Of the Dutch great Preparations for the Seas.

[7.] Letters, That Blackness was not thought fit to be made a Garrison. That Dunbarton Castle, was one of the Strongest holds in the 3 King∣doms.

That Argyle in his Treaty with Major-General * 1.5 Dean, and Major Salloway insisted much for the In∣terest of the Kirke. That the Parliaments Forces fortified Ayre, a strong Town, and convenient Harbour.

[9.] Letters of the meetings of the Ministers in Scotland, who do threaten interdiction, and communication to complyers with the Parliament, and that the Highlanders fall upon them.

Of an Eclipse in Scotland, that put the Inhabi∣tants to a great Astonishment.

[10.] Letters, That the Dutch Ships in Pen∣dennis Harbour hasted away from thence, fearing an Imbargoe by the Parliament.

Of 6 English Colliers taken by the Dutch, and rescued again by an English Frigot.

That Collonel Cook was Slain, and no other of his Party, in a Skirmish with the Rebels.

[12.] Letters from Collonel Zanchey to the Lord-General, and read in Parliament, of all the * 1.6 proceedings of his Party the Winter past, where∣in among others, he mentions the good Service of Captain Whitelock.

That they killed above 400 of the Irish, and took 350, 110 whereof he sent for Spain, that they took many Hundreds of Cows and Garrons, and 300 Troops of Horses, and a great quantity of Arms. That about 400 of them upon their Petition and Security given, have been received into the Parlia∣ments Protection.

That they hanged above 50 of the Irish accord∣ing to the Lord-General his Orders. That he had not lost above 5 men, nor any officers but Captain Ball. He mentions the Sollicitation of many of the Irish, for a Treaty, wherein he was doubtful what to do, not knowing the mind of the Parlia∣ment therein, towards those bloody Rebels, but that to Collonel Odvery (who had been very Civil and kind to the English who were Prisoners with him, and very just in Performance of all his In∣gagements) he had granted a safe Conduct and Treaty, to be confirmed or annulled as the Parlia∣ment should think fit, and sent a Copy of the Ar∣ticles.

From Leith, that March 29 was so dark, that they could not see to write without a Candle, and it caused great fear upon all Men.

[13.] The Act read for Incorporating Scot∣land into one Common-wealth and Free-state with * 1.7 England, and for abolishing the Kingly office in Scotland, and committed.

A Letter assented unto, to be sent to the King of Denmark, and ordered to be sent.

Upon a report from the Councel of State, of the abuses in Cloathing, and Transporting of Wool, and Fullers-Earth, a day was appointed to debate it.

Order to exclude all private Business for 14 Dayes.

Order for an Act, to settle the Lincoln-shire Fens.

[15.] There was a smart debate between the Dutch Ambassadors, and the Parliaments Commis∣sioners, * 1.8 wherein the point of the Right of Fishing in

the Narrow-Seas, and the Soveraignty of those Seas, to be in the Nation of England, was touched upon, and by Whitelock more than others, to the distast of their Excellencies the Lords Ambassadors.

[16.] Letters, That the Forces of Dublin had kined about 100 Tories, and taken much Cattle, That many Irish had made Conditions with the Eng∣lish Commissioners for a Submission, that Collonel Fitz-Patrick had made Terms for 5000 men to go beyond Sea.

[17.] Letters, That most of the Countries, by their Deputies had consented to the Ʋnion of Scot∣land * 1.9 with England, and had chosen divers Officers of the English Army for their Deputies.

Of Ship-wracks near Scilly.

[19.] Letters, That Galloway had agreed to Surrender upon Articles.

That Collonel Reynolds had taken in 2 Garrisons of great Consequence, bordering upon Ʋlster.

That the Ministers of Scotland inflame the Peo∣ple against England, and damn all their Brethren and * 1.10 People, who are not of their opinion. That the Lord of Drum had bid them defiance.

That Argyle dallied, and doubled with the Eng∣lish Commissioners.

[20.] Letters, That a party sent to Ayre, were received of the Garrison of the Castle of Arran upon conditions.

That Ships were come to Leith with Provisions and horse meat.

A Petition of the Eastland Merchants residing * 1.11 at Dantzicke, submitting and commending the late Act of Navigation, which they do pray may be ob∣served, and remedy of abuses in their Trade.

Votes, That all Wools brought into England, shall be Excise-free.

That an Act be brought in to prevent the Expor∣tation of Scotch Wools, Woolfells, or Leather.

Referred to the Councel of State, to consider and prepare an Act touching the Adventurers for Ireland, and the qualifications touching Ireland for∣merly * 1.12 read in Parliament, and that they be im∣powred to transport such of the Irish, as they shall think fit into Forrein parts, and about Trans∣planting of the Irish from one part of the Nation to another.

And to consider of Satisfaction to such Officers, and Soldiers, as shall be disbanded in Ireland.

Letters of the Surrender of Galloway to the Par∣liaments Forces, with a Copy of the Articles, and several Letters between the Parliaments Commis∣sioners and Sir Charles Coot in Ireland about that Business, referred to the Councel of State.

Vote, That the Committee for the Universities, and the Committee of Indemnity do sit no more, * 1.13 and the House appointed a day to consider of fill∣ing the House with new Members.

[23.] Letters, That the Isle of Arran in Scot∣land, and Duke Hamiltons House, the Castle there, was upon Summons Surrendred to the Parliaments * 1.14 Forces, the Island is 8 miles over, and 24 miles in Length, and those in the Castle told the Com∣mander of the Parliaments Forces, that if they could have kept the Castle against him, they would not have Surrendred it, but being they could not defend it, that he and his Soldiers were welcome to it.

That the Inhabitants shewed much distast to Ar∣gyle, but the Civil Carriage of the Parliaments Sol∣diers did much ingage them.

[24.] Letters of several Ships come into Leith Road, loaden with Hay, and others with Merchan∣dize. That the Ship which brought the Money for the Army, lost her ••udder at Yarmouth Road, and so was hindered of her Voyage.

That Argyle was preparing of Forces, and yet gave good words to the English Commissioners. That great depredations were committed by the Highlanders. That the Chancellour sought to come in, and the Ministers in the West were busie in de∣signing against England.

That Sir George Ascue had taken in the Barbadoes; the Letters from him, with the Articles read in Parliament, and the Messenger had 100 l. given * 1.15 him by the House.

Debate upon Regulating of the prizes of Wine.

[26.] Letters, That Sir George Ascue landed but 200 at first under Captain Morris, who beat up one of the Enemies Quarters, and took from them a little Fort with 4 Guns, which they spiked up without any Loss.

That the Virginia-Fleet came in thither, but ve∣ry weak, and their Men sick, yet Sir George took the advantage of the appearance of that Fleet, and sent a new Summons to the Lord Willoughby.

But he refusing to submit, Sir George modelled 400 into a Regiment, and landed them at night, and were gallantly received by the Lord Willough∣byes men, but being night, they thought the Assay∣lants more than they were, and the Seamen with great Shouts running upon the Enemy, they were so amazed, that after a short dispute they all ran away;

Leaving a place, where in a manner, they were intrenched, and 4 great Guns.

That this party thus routed were 1200 Foot, and a Troop of Horse, and Sir George lost but 7 or 8 men, whereof one was Lieutenant-Collonel Allen, of the Enemy were 100 Slain, and 80 Prisoners.

The success was nothing towards the gaining of the whole Island, the Enemy having then about 5000 Horse and Foot in Arms.

That the Virginia-Fleet after 7 days went away, and then Sir George upon Information of Collonels Muddifords interests in the Island, and Affections to the Parliament, Sir George sent to him and his Friends by giving them honourable Conditions, and he joined with Sir George, and made up 2000 Foot, and 100 Horse.

That the People came in hourly to Sir George, who went on Shoar to Collonel Muddiford and his Company, and gave them full satisfaction of his Commission, and the Parliaments intentions, whereupon they engaged to live and dye with the Parliament.

That the Lord Willoughby understanding this, marched up to them, with all the Force he could make, and one of Sir George his great Guns Shot in at the Door, where the Lord Willoughby and his Councel of War were, and carried away the Sen∣tinels head.

That this night the Enemy marched 2 Miles from Sir George his men, who had many designs but were hindred by the Rains for 3 or 4 daies to∣gether, and before they could March, the Lord Willoughby sent for a Treaty, and in regard his strength was much the greater, and to avoid the de∣struction of that goodly Island, which was already much wasted,

Sir George sent his Commissioners to meet with the Lord Willoughbys Commissioners, and they a∣greed upon Articles, and it was surrendred to the Parliament.

The truth was that the Lord Willoughby was forced to this surrender, knowing that his men would not stand to him but dayly did desert him, and most of the Islanders took in with C. Muddiford against my Lord.

Letters that the Frigot with the Mony was safely arrived at Leith, narrowly escaping the Sands, on

which she struck six times upon the Coast of Yar∣mouth, but was delivered by the breaking of her Rudder.

That Argyle and his Clans agreed to oppose the Parliament of England, and that he had gotten * 1.16 10000 Arms.

That the Kirk began to piece again, but the Peo∣ple were inclinable to the Union.

[27.] Votes touching the payment of Debts upon publick Faith.

Referred to a Committee to consider how the Poor may be set to work and relieved, and not suffered to beg; and to review all the Acts touch∣ing the Poor, and report the defects of them; and to receive Proposals for the City of London, or others, touching the Poor.

An Act passed for the further ease and relief of poor Prisoners for Debt.

Letters, That the Scots King was ingaged in mediating a Peace between the King of France and the Princes, wherein he alledged his own condition, and that of his Father, and the King of France thanked him for his good Intentions, * 1.17 and desired him to make the like Proposals to the Princes,

Which the Scots King did; but the King of France refused to put away the Cardinal, who offered to go away, rather than to be a cause of continuing the miseries of France; that the Prin∣ces doubled their Guards, and the People were enraged against Cardinal Mazarini.

[29.] Letters of the reducing of the Barba∣does to the same effect as before.

The Revolt of Collonel Muddiford, and Let∣ters from my Lady Willoughby to my Lord her * 1.18 Husband, that the Kings Forces were defeated at Worcester, and of the condition of the Affairs in England, with her advice to him to submit to the Parliament upon good terms; and Letters to the same effect from other Friends; were the cause of his surrender of the Island.

[30.] Orders for Recruits from Pendennis Castle for Ireland; and six weeks pay for them before they were transported out of England.

May 1652.

[1.] Letters, That the Declaration of the Parliament of England for the Union of Scotland with England, and their sending of Members to the Parliament of England, was proclaimed with great solemnity at Edenburgh Cross, but the Scots shewed no rejoycing at it.

[3.] Letters justifying the Proceedings of the Commissioners for propagating the Gospel in Wales, written by Mr. Vavasour Power a Minister there.

[4.] Referred to the Committee to consider, how a competent Maintenance for Godly Mini∣sters may be setled in lieu of Tithes.

Order for relief of maimed and sick Sol∣diers.

Mr. Weaver, one of the Commissioners of the Parliament in Ireland, came into the House where∣of he was a Member, and gave them an account of the State of their Affairs there.

Letters of Credence of the Queen of Sweden, * 1.19 to the Noble Hareldus Applebone her publick Mini∣ster, * 1.20 to the Parliament of England, were read; and Letters from the Prince of Conde to the Par∣liament, read, and both of them referred to the Council of State,

Letters, That Argyle did again solicit for some * 1.21 singular Act of Favour from the Parliament of * 1.22 England, but his ways were known.

That Three Judges were come from England, to administer Justice to the Scots in Scotland.

[5.] That some Travellers upon Hunsloe Heath saw a strange Apparition of the Sun about sixth Clock in the Evening, &c.

[6.] Letters, That the Ministers of Scotland were as bitter as ever against the Interest of Eng∣land.

Of more Counties and Boroughs accepting the Ʋnion with England; and that Argyle had agreed * 1.23 to Terms to come in to the Parliament of England, but they were not published.

That the Lord Chief-Justice St. John, Mr. Sal∣loway, and Alderman Tichburne, the Parliaments Commissioners in Scotland, went away for Eng∣land.

That the Deputies of Argyle Shire had consent∣ed to the Ʋnion.

[7.] Letters, That the Magistrates of Mussel∣borough had taken the Ingagement of the Parlia∣ment of England.

Of a Pyrate who took several English Vessels to the Westward; of Recruits Shipped from Pen∣dennis for Ireland.

That the Irish begged for Conditions to come in to the Parliament, and some of them were ad∣mitted.

[10.] Letters of Preparations to reduce Din∣noter Castle in Scotland.

That the new Judges sent into Scotland, were very busie in setling of new Judicatories there.

That Ireland was wholly reduced, and had no other refuge but Bogs and Woods; that the Plague was much abated there.

That Commissary-General Reynolds had gotten most of the Provisions of the Rebels, and killed and taken many of them, and prevented their fortifying.

That he setled Three considerable Garrisons upon Passes in Kings County; took in the strong Forts in those Parts upon Quarter for Life only.

[11.] The Scots Commissioners returned, and were in the Parliament.

The Committee revived for setting a Period to this Parliament, and providing for future Repre∣sentatives. * 1.24

[12.] Debate upon Qualifications of such Persons as shall be received into the House as Members.

Letters, That Captain Howe, a Young Gentle-man, * 1.25 who had done gallant Service for the Parlia∣ment in Ireland, being assaulted in his Quarters by a Party of the Tories, he at the first Charge rout∣ed them; but then they came on again with a fresh Party, and routed Captain Hows Party, who en∣deavoured to make good his Soldiers Retreat, and himself charged Three times, and came off well, but upon a Fourth Charge he was unfortunate∣ly slain, and his Death was very much lamen∣ted.

[13.] A Duel between the Lord Chandoys, and Mr. Compton, and the Lord killed Mr. Compton.

[14.] The knocking of a Link near some Reeds set the Reeds on fire, and they fired a House in Redriffe, and Two Ships lying near the Shore, and burnt them at low water, when no Boats could come to help them, nor could they get Water.

Letters, That the Inhabitants of Virginia wil∣lingly submitted to the Government of the Par∣liament.

[15.] That the Army in Scotland was taking the Field.

Of the refractoriness of the Ministers.

That the Judges sent out of England published a Proclamation at Edenburgh, That they would * 1.26 sit at the usual place for administring of Justice.

[17.] Letters from the Commissioners in Ire∣land to the Parliament, giving an account of the Affairs there; of the Provisions received, and ac∣knowledging the great care of the Parliament therein, and how they had disposed thereof to the Forces.

Of the Ports in Kerry fit for a Forreign Enemy to land in. That Clenrickard and others were gone * 1.27 to Ʋlster to joyn with Phelim O-Neale. That in some places the Enemy have made some Incur∣sions in small Parties, and taken some prey and Dragoon Horses; but upon their return, they being 250 Horse, and 500 Foot, they were met by Lieutenant-Collonel Throckmorton with 140 Horse, and 400 Foot, who had no Pikes, and the Horse at first made some retreat.

But at length, after a sharp Dispute, the Eng∣lish Horse routed the Irish, and killed 200 of them on the place and in the pursuit, and took and kil∣led divers Officers, and had but twenty one kil∣led, and 100 Soldiers wounded.

That the Irish Clergy have excommunicated Collonel Fitz-Patrick for submitting to the Par∣liament, and the Laity published a Declaration against him, and all that joyned with him, and some of his Party were cut off by the Irish, who also cut off the Ears of some whom they took Prisoners.

That Fitz-Patrick met with some of them.

That Shipping was wanting to transport those who are to go beyond Seas, 2000 of Fitz-Pa∣tricks Party, 1000 of O-Dwyers Party, and 4000 more.

Of many Applications made by divers chief Of∣ficers of the Irish to come in to the Parliament, and Commissioners were sent with Instructions to give the same Terms which Collonel Venables was authorized to give to those in Ʋlster.

That Sir Charles Coote explained the Articles of Galloway, which he yielded to, to prevent charge to the Parliament, and to get the posses∣sion of that City.

[18.] Letters of a Squadron of the Parlia∣ments Ships meeting with Three Dutch Men of War, and Seven Merchants, that the Dutch Ad∣miral * 1.28 came under the Lee of the Parliaments Ships, and kept his Flag up; whereupon the English Ship sent a Boat to him to acquaint him * 1.29 that they had received Orders from their General to cause those Ships they met to take down their Flags; and presently the Dutch Admiral took down his Flag, and saluted the English Ships with Three Pieces of Ordnance, and the English did the like to him.

After the Admiral came the Vice-Admiral of the Dutch, but came to the Windward of the English, contrary to the custom in the Narrow Seas, and saluted the English with 13 Shot, but took not down their Top-Flag.

The English called to them to take it down, but they refused, and still sailed on with it up; so the English filled their Sails, and hasted all they could after the Dutch Vice-Admiral, and ordered their Boat to go on Board them, to perswade them to take their Flag; but he in stead of taking it then down, gave a cross Answer, and said, he would not, and that we should come and take it down our selves.

Upon advice, the English addressed themselves to prepare to fight the Dutch; but before they began, there was come up with them a little Fri∣got of 24 Guns, which did instantly let go Three Guns at the Dutch Rear-Admiral for them to strike, but he did not fire again, only pleaded, That they durst not take down their Flag so long as their Vice-Admiral kept up his.

Whereupon that Frigot spake with their Ad∣miral, and desired to know the reason, why the Vice-Admiral did not submit to take down his Flag; to whom the Admiral answered, That he thought they were drunk; the Captain of that Fri∣got propounded to the Admiral, whether he would side with him in his standing out, and he answered No, but said, as they brewed so they should bake.

Hereupon the English Ship came up to the Vice-Admiral, and gave him a Broad-side, and salu∣ted him with 19 Guns, which did good execu∣tion; and they likewise gave the English a Broad-side, and they had for a time a hot Dispute, in which one of the English was hurt, and another wounded, and one slain, and the Dutch had a greater loss.

But afterward he took down the Flag, and the Admiral and other Vessels gave the English such loving Salutes, confessing their faults, and so they parted good Friends.

[19.] The House sate in a Grand Committee for setting a time for the ending of this Parlia∣ment.

Referred to the Council to take care about the Reception of the Two Ambassadors come from the King of Denmark.

A Letter of Count D'Ognion to the Parliament was read.

Vote, That no Commission be granted to any Lieutenant of Ireland, after the expiring of the * 1.30 present Commission to the Lord-Deputy Lambert, and referred it to the Committee touching the Adventurers for Ireland, for encouraging English Protestants to plant there,

Letters of a Body of the Irish together intend∣ing for the Lagan.

[21.] Letters of Recruits for Ireland.

Of a Ship fired by a Barrel of Powder, but her Men saved, and she mended and put to Sea again, and was taken by a Ship with Commission from the King of Scots; another Ship taken by a French Pyrate.

That Scurlocke the Arch-Tory met with some English, pretending a Treaty to come in, but upon the advantage they had, they fell upon the English, and disordered them; but another Party of English coming in, routed the Rebels, killed 300 on the place, and took many Prisoners.

Letters to the Parliament, That Van Trump the * 1.31 Dutch Admiral sailing in the Downs, with an un∣usual Fleet of 45 Men of War, being demanded the reason of it, said, That he was forced in by Tempestuous Weather, and had no design to prejudice the Common-wealth of England.

This being held a slight Answer, and that there had been no stormy weather, and his slight beha∣viour towards the English confirmed a jealousie of him, and notice was given of it to the Council, and to the English Admiral.

Who coming thither, saluted the Dutch Fleet with a single Gun, to require them to strike Sail to ours, they being within the Territories of this Common-wealth, the Honour whereof our Navy was bound to maintain.

But they refusing, a Second Gun was fired, and a Third, which Van Trump answered with a Broad-side, by which our Admiral discerning

their intention to fight us, singled out himself from the rest of the Fleet, to treat with Van Trump about that Point of Honour, and to endea∣vour to prevent the effusion of Blood, and National quarrel.

But when our Admiral came near Van Trump, he and the rest of his Fleet, contrary to the Law of Nations, coming upon a Treaty, fired upon our Admiral with many hundreds of Shots.

Yet the Admiral, though for some time he fought alone against the whole Dutch Fleet, after four hours fight he forced the Dutch to flight, the darkness of the night not permitting us to follow; we took two of their best Ships in the Fight, and one of them sunk as we brought her to shore, and the Dutch Fleet fled Westward, and ours did cast Anchor in the same Sea where they did fight.

We lost 15 Men, most of them out of the Ad∣miral; the loss was great the Dutch had, but the Particulars not known; the Sea-men from the Shore came out in little Boats to assist us.

[22.] A Guard was set upon the Dutch Am∣bassadors * 1.32 where they were at Chelsey: The Lieu∣tenant-General and many of his Officers went to Dover.

[24.] Letters of the Particulars of the Fight at Sea betwixt the English and the Dutch; That the English Admiral had their Master and others wounded, and received 1000 shot, her Main-Mast * 1.33 shot away, all her Rigging torn, shot between Wind and Water; that they took one of the Dutch of 36 Guns, and sunk another.

That General Blake was sent to by Major Bourne, and came in to the Fleet; and that Van Trump came near to our Fleet when there was no occasion for it, and coming near to General Blakes Ship, he shot Two Guns at Van Trumps Flag, but without Ball, to call to him to strike, and Trump shot on the averse side of his Ship, which was in high dis∣dain of the English.

That then Van Trump hung out a Red Flag, which some of his Officers, being Prisoners, confessed was their Signal, and gave a Broad-side to Gene∣ral Blake, and so the Fight began between them, and Major Bourne came in to the Ingagement with Eight Ships more, and the Fight continued four hours.

That the next Morning the Dutch Fleet was Four Leagues from ours towards the Coast of France; That General Blake had Six of his Men slain, Nine or Ten desperately wounded, 25 more in danger, and the Master, and one of his Mates; That he received 70 Shot in his Hull, and Masts, and in his Sails and Rigging without number, and sometimes alone fought with the whole Dutch Fleet.

[25.] Letters of an Agreement by Articles between the Officers of the Parliaments Forces Lieutenant-General Ludlow, &c. and the Earl of * 1.34 Westmeath, and the grand Tories and Forces in Munster, Connaght and Lemster, for their submissi∣on to the Parliament.

Of great differences among the Kirk-men in Scotland.

[26.] The Ambassadors from the King of Denmark had Audience in Parliament.

The Lieutenant-General Cromwel setled the bu∣siness of the Fleet at Dover, and returned to London. General Blakes Fleet was re-inforced; the Dutch appeared with 70 Sail, but attempted nothing.

The Act read for continuing the Monthly As∣sessment for the Armies.

A Committee appointed to consider in what places, and on what days Markets are fit to be * 1.35 kept.

Referred to the Commissioners of the Great Seal to issue out a Commission, and take care for the visiting of the Charter-house Hospital near Kingston upon Hull.

[27.] Letters, That Lieutenant-Collonel Throckmorton met with Duncan, who had 500 * 1.36 Foot, and 400 Horse near Wexford, who had ta∣ken all the Cattle, and left not a Cow to give Milk; That at the first Charge the Irish behaved themselves gallantly, and put the English to some disorder, yet the Irish did not pursue, till the English had rallied, and upon the Second Charge the English beat up the Irish to their Horse, and so put them to the rout, killed 200 of them, and many Officers Prisoners, and lost but 30 Men, and 60 wounded.

[28.] Letters, That the Judges at Edenburgh * 1.37 met and heard a good Sermon, and then sate in the Court of Justice, and Mr. Smith one of them, made a Speech to the Company, of the occasion of their meeting, and to take off some aspersions cast upon the Parliament by the Ministers, as if they countenanced Heresies and Blasphemies.

Then they caused the Act of Parliament against Heresies to be read, and concluded; That he doubt∣ed not but they should give satisfaction to the People of Scotland in the due administration of Justice to them.

Then a List of the Fees of Officers was read, and the Auditory seemed to be much contented.

Of Recruits shipped for Ireland, and of some Vessels taken by Pyrates.

[29.] Letters of the Arrival of Sir George Ascue and his Fleet at Plymouth from the Barbadoes, with 36 Prizes.

[31.] Of the Siege of Dunotter Castle in Scotland, and the high Terms they astand upon; That the High-Sheriffs appointed in Scotland went to execute their Offices.

Of differences among the Ministers in Scotland, and the Lord Wareston and others consulting a∣gainst * 1.38 the Assembly of the Kirk.

That the People questioned divers great Men before the new Judges, for former injuries and oppressions.

That Collonel Dungan wrote a civil Letter to Lieutenant-Collonel Throckmorton; That since he was Master of the Field, by a fair Dispute, he desired a civil usage of the Prisoners he had taken, and a List of them, and whether Ransomes would be taken for them.

June 1652.

[1.] Letters, That the Holland Fleet was bat∣tered, and made unfit for fight.

That the Plague was at Leverpoole.

The Parliament ordered a day of publick Hu∣miliation and Fast through England and Wales, and appointed a Committee to prepare a Declara∣tion of the grounds of the Fast.

Order for preserving Books and Manuscripts at Winchester.

Report of a Paper from the Agent of the Queen of Sweden, and another from the Ambassador of the King of Denmark read in the House, and An∣swers to them agreed upon.

Votes, That nothing in the Articles of Rendi∣tion of Limbrick shall extend to any Toleration of the Popish Religion.

[2.] Debate in Parliament, how some Re∣trenchment may be made of the charge of the

Common-wealth with safety, and how the Reve∣nue of the State may be improved, and a Com∣mittee was appointed to consider thereof.

Vote, That all Annual Salaries to Officers, for sale of Lands of Bishops, and of Deans and Cha∣pters, be suspended till further order.

[4.] Letters, That the Hollanders took into their Ships many Pick-axes, Spades, Shovels, and Barrows, which caused a suspition of their intent to land.

That there was an Imbargo put upon the Dutch Ships in Scotland.

That the English Forces before Dunotter Gastle in Scotland playing with their Guns as it, and ha∣ving * 1.39 shot in about Twelve Granadoes, which broke into their great Tower, and killed Seven Men; those in the Castle, notwithstanding their high terms before, yielded upon Conditions, only to march out half a Mile with their Arms, and then to lay them down.

That this was the last Garrison in Scotland unre∣duced.

That the Fleet under General Blake was much * 1.40 encreased in Ships and Men; That he with his Of∣ficers and Sea-men kept several days of Humiliati∣on in the Fleet,

Of another Ingagement between Captain Moul∣ton with some Ships against some of the Dutch, who were beaten by the English.

[5.] Letters, That Prince Rupert took an English Merchants Ship with 39 Guns, and made her his Rear-Admiral, and put in her French and Dutch Mariners, and used the English Mariners very hardly; who consulted among themselves, and one of them, a Carpenter, took his advantage to single out the Captain, and the rest took to single out an outlandish Mariner to each of them.

And thus they subdued and brought away the Vessel into Plymouth, with the Captain and Officers of the Ships Prisoners.

The Parliament order a Reward to these Mari∣ners, and an Act to be brought in to encourage o∣thers upon the like occasion.

That Prince Rupert met with a Merchant from Guinny richly laden.

[7.] Letters, That great Riches were in Du∣notter Castle, the Sword, Scepter, and Crown, but they could not be found.

Divers Highlanders submitted to the Parlia∣ment. The Sails of the Dutch Ships were brought on shore at Leith.

A Petition to the Parliament from the Owners and Commoners in Lincoln-shire Fens, for satisfa∣ction for Injuries formerly done to them.

An Additional Act passed for sale of Fee-farm Rents.

[9.] The Parliament kept a Solemn day of Humiliation.

[10.] Order for the Reception of Meen heer Paw, Ambassador Extraordinary from the States-General.

A Narrative was published of the late Engage∣ment between the English Fleet and Van Trump.

The former publick Minister of the States pre∣sented a Paper to the Council of State; * 1.41

Taking God, the Searcher of Mans Heart, to wit∣ness, that the most unhappy Fight of the Ships of both Common-wealths, did happen against the Knowledge and Will of the Lords States-General of the Ʋnited Netherlands, and that with grief and astonishment they received the fatal News of that unhappy rash Action.

That they did consult and endeavour to find out what remedy chiefly may be applied, to mitigate that raw and bloody Wound; to which end they have writ∣ten to gather a Solemn Meeting or Parliament of all the Provinces, whereby they do not doubt but an help will be found out for those troubles, and a better hope of our Treaty in hand; which thing being now most earnestly agitated by our Lords, for the common good of both Nations, to shun that detestable shedding of Christian Blood, (so much desired, and would be dearly bought by the Common Enemies of both Nations, and of the Reformed Religion:) We again do crave this most Honourable Council, and beseech you by the Pledges both of the Common Religion and Liberty, mean while to suffer nothing to be done out of too much heat, that afterwards may prove neither revocable nor repairable, by too late idle Vows and Wishes; but ra∣ther that you would let us receive a kind Answer with∣out further delay upon our last request.

Signed,

• J. Catz,
• G. Schaep,
• Vanderpeere.

To this the Parliament gave this Answer. * 2.1

That calling to mind with what continued Demon∣stration of Friendship, and sincere Affections, from the very beginning of their intestine troubles, they have proceeded towards their Neighbours of the Ʋni∣ted Provinces, they

Do find themselves much surprized with the unsui∣table returns that have been made thereunto, and espe∣cially at the Acts of Hostility lately committed in the very Roads of England, upon the Fleet of this Com∣mon-wealth; the matter of Fact where of stated in clear proofs, is hereunto annexed.

Ʋpon serious consideration of all, and of the seve∣ral Papers delivered in by your Excellencies to the Council of State, the Parliament thinks fit to give this Answer.

As they would be willing to make a Charitable Con∣struction of the Expressions used in the said Papers, endeavoring to represent the late Ingagements of the Fleets to have happened without the knowledge, and a∣gainst the mind of your Superiours; so when they con∣sider how disagreeable to that Profession the Resolu∣tions and Actions of your State, and of their Mini∣sters at Sea, have been, even in the midst of a Treaty, offered by themselves, and managed here by your Ex∣cellencies.

The Extraordinary Preparations of 150 Sail of Men of War, without any visible occasion, but what doth now appear a just ground of jealousie in your own judgments, when your Lordships pretended to excuse it, and the Instructions themselves, given by your said Superiours to their Commanders at Sea, they do find too much cause to believe, that the Lords the States-General of the Ʋnited Provinces have an intention by force to usurp the known Rights of England in the Seas, to destroy the Fleets that are, under God, their Walls and Bulwarks, and thereby to expose this Common-wealth to Invasion at their pleasure, as by this late Action they have attempted to do.

Whereupon the Parliament conceive they are obliged to endeavour, with Gods assistance, as they shall have opportunity, to seek reparations of the wrong already suffered, and security that the like be not attempted for the future.

Nevertheless with this mind and desire, that all differences between the Two Nations may (if possible) be peaceably and friendly composed, as God by his Providence shall open a way thereunto, and Circum∣stances shall be conducing, to render such Endeavours less dilatory, and more effectual, than those of this kind hitherto yet have been.

[11.] Letters, That the English Commissio∣ners in Scotland published Two Acts for the regu∣lating * 2.2

of the Ministers, and of the Universities in Scotland, and for the Proceedings in Courts of Justice.

[12.] The Dutch Ambassador Meen heer Paw had Audience in Parliament, with the usual So∣lemnities, * 2.3 and was to make his further Addresses to the Council of State, with the other Ambassa∣dors from Holland.

Letters from General Blake of another Fight at Sea, between Captain Peacock and Captain Taylor, with Two of the Parliaments Frigots, and Two of the Hollanders, upon the Coast of Flanders, upon the same account as the former, for refusing * 2.4 to strike their Top-Sail; that after a short Dispute, the English boarded one of the Holland Ships, and took all her Officers and Mariners; but she was so torn in the Fight, that she presently sunk, though all means were used to save her, and the other Dutch Ship ran her self upon the Sands to avoid being taken.

The Parliament sent a Letter of Thanks to Captain Peacock and Captain Taylor for their gal∣lant Services.

[13.] The Lords day.

Letters from General Blake, (which occa∣sioned the Council of State to sit this day) that * 2.5 he having notice of a Fleet of Hollanders near the Downs, he sent out a Squadron of Men of War to discover them, and they were 26 Sail of Merchant-men laden, with Three Men of War for their Convoys; all which the Squadron brought in to General Blake, who had before stayed Ten more of the Holland Ships.

[14.] The Commissioners in Scotland sate for regulating the Ministers.

A List sent up to the Parliament of the Dutch Men of War and Merchants Ships taken by the Parliaments Fleet, being in all taken 36.

[15.] Letters, That the Connaught and Ʋlster Rebels being joyned, took Ballyshannon in Ireland * 2.6 by surrender; but the same day the Lord-Presi∣dent of Connaught marched on the other side of the River, which caused the Rebels to go away, leaving a Regiment in Ballyshannon, who surren∣dred the Town to the President of Connaught as soon as he came before it.

That they marched over inaccessible Bogs; ma∣ny of them took protection and came in; that they had but Eight Barrels of Powder left; that they lost 30 Commissioned Officers at Ballyshannon, and 300 slain, and 1200 more are since come from them.

That the Castle of Drumah was rendred to the Lord Broghill, and a strong Party was sent into Kerry against Rosse.

That the Rebels took another Castle, and were pursued; that many submitted to the Parliament, to whom their Commissioners gave an account of their Affairs, and pray the speeding of Re∣cruits.

[16.] Vote, That the Act of Parliament con∣stituting Oliver Cromwel Captain-General, and * 2.7 Commander in Chief of the Armies and Forces raised * 2.8 by their Authority within England, shall extend to the Forces in Ireland, as if Ireland had been therein par∣ticularly named.

That the Lord-General be required to appoint such Person as he shall think fit to command the Forces in Ireland, and to Commissionate him accordingly.

Referred to the Council of State to consider what Commission and Powers are fit to be given to such as shall have the Civil Power in Ireland, and the Names of fit Persons to be Commissioners there for that purpose, for the Parliaments ap∣probation.

The Military Commissions in Ireland to conti∣nue in force, till the Lord-General shall give fur∣ther order.

This Vote of putting the Command of the For∣ces in Ireland into the Lord-General Crom∣wel, was contrived by his Friends, and to satisfie his ambition; but it began the distast and grudge * 2.9 betwixt him and Major-General Lambert, who being formerly named by the Parliament to be Lord-Lieutenant of Ireland, and now in effect, that Vote by this repealed, he thought himself highly dishonoured, and affronted by the Lord-General and his Party.

Upon the other Vote for Commissioners to be named to have the Civil Power in them in Ireland, it was propounded and urged to Whitelocke to be * 2.10 one of them, and the chief of them; and the great Command and Honour of that employment, with considerable profit, was used as an Argument to perswade him to accept of it.

This was suspected to be a design of some ill∣willers to him, who would have him sent out of the way, and rid him from his Place of Commis∣sioner of the Great Seal, and some believed that Cromwel under hand might be forward in it, not liking his non-complyance with his pleasure in some things, and particularly in some Chancery Causes.

But he excused himself from undertaking this Service, being no advancement in Honour or Pro∣fit, and that he did not like the Country; and with some resoluteness of denial he got himself off from being named.

[17.] The General perswaded Whitelocke to accept of the Employment for Ireland, and high∣ly * 2.11 commended the Country, and the Honourable Employment; but Whitelocke made the same ex∣cuses to him as he had done before.

[18.] Letters, That when the Rebels stormed Ballyshannon Castle, 300 of them were slain, though but 60 Men were in the Castle; and at the re-ta∣king of it by the Parliaments Forces within Ten days after, they took 1000 Prisoners, and 8000 Cows.

[19.] Letters of Preparations to invade the Highlands with Three Brigades marching several * 2.12 ways.

That a Convention of the Kirk was held at Dalkeith, and dissolved by the Women of the Town.

That 50 of the Parliaments Men of War went from the Downs Northwards.

[21.] Letters of a Debate in the Synod at Edenburgh, about drawing up of a Paper, stiled, A Testimony against the present incroaching of the * 2.13 Civil Power upon the Ecclesiastical Jurisdiction, which they took from the Proclamation concerning the Committee for Visitation of the Universities, and declaring, That they will remove scandalous Mini∣sters; which hath highly incensed them, those Pro∣ceedings being special Flowers of their Kirk-Pre∣rogative, that ought to be managed only by them∣selves; and they concluded their Declaration.

That in the Synod in Fife they made a Prote∣station against the publick Resolutions of the Civil Power.

That Two French Frigots took Two or Three English Ships upon the Scots Coast.

That the King of Scots was transacting with the Dutch about their fishing in the narrow Seas, and had offered them large Priviledges.

That Sir George Ascue came with his Fleet of * 2.14 11 Men of War from Plymouth into Dover Road, and after he had saluted General Blake with all his Guns, and the whole Fleet returned him the like

Salutation, Sir George came aboard the General and all his Captains, and dined with him.

These Salutes of the Guns gave the Country an Alarme, so that they flocked to the Sea side ex∣pecting a Fight. that the Parliaments Navy was a∣bove 100 men of War.

Two Regiments Shipped on Board the Navy.

That the Dutch Ships forbear to come through the narrow Seas, but put into Ports of France, and go home by Land.

[22.] An Act passed for transferring the powers of the Committee of Indemnity, to the Committee for compounding.

A Petition touching Registring Conveyances, * 2.15 upon which, an order, for bringing in the Bill for that business.

[23.] It was particularly given to Whitelocke in charge, to prepare for the debate with the Dutch Ambassadors upon the Treaty, for main∣taining the right of the Common-wealth, in the Dominion of the British Seas.

[25.] Letters of the Synods meeting at Perth, * 2.16 and citing the Ministers and People, who had ex∣pressed a dislike of their heavenly Government, that the men being got out of the way, their Wifes re∣solved to answer for them.

And on the day of appearance, 120 Women with good Clubs in their Hands came and besieged the Church where the Reverend Ministers sat.

They sent one of their number to Treat with the Females, and he threatning Excommunication, they basted him for his labour, kept him Prisoner, and sent a party of 60, who routed the rest of the Clergy, bruised their bodies sorely, took all their Baggage, and 12 Horses.

That one of the Ministers after a miles running, taking all Creatures for his Foes, meeting with a Soldier fell on his knees for Quarter, who knowing nothing of the matter, asked the Black-Coat what he meant.

That these Conquerors having laid hold on the Synod Clerk, beat him till he forswore his Of∣fice.

That 13 of the Ministers rallied about 4 Miles from the place, and voted, that this Village should never more have a Synod kept in it, but be accursed; and that although in the years 1638 and 39, the Godly Women were called up for stoning the Bishops, yet now the whole Sex should be esteemed wicked.

[26.] Letters, That a Pinnace of 40 Tun be∣ing to be Launched, was by the Seamen and Soldi∣ers drawn 6 miles over Land.

That the Lieutenant-General was sat down be∣fore Rosse in Ireland, that the Connaught and Ʋlster Forces were very numerous, and Collonel Reynolds and Venables in pursuit of them.

[28.] Letters of the great Fire in Glascow, which burned most part of the Town, and the Mi∣nisters Preached, that this was for their complyance with the Sectaries.

That by Thunder and Lightning on the last Lords-Day at Church-Lawton in Cheshire, Eleven Persons during the Sermon were struck dead in the Congregation.

Much hurt was done at Greenwich by Storms, and a strange kind of Hail, and a Ship coming up the * 2.17 River there had her Mast quite taken away, and her Sails and Tackle torn, several Boats were turned over, and many People drowned.

The Thunder and Lightning burnt a Barn in Essex, and the Steeple and much of the Church, and melted the Lead and Bells at Okenden.

[29.] A Petition to the Parliament signed by * 2.18 many Thousands, setting forth the miseries of the War indured by them, in hopes that their Rights and the Fundamental Laws (formerly corrupted by the King, with his Instruments the Clergy, Lawyers, and Statesmen) would be restored, as was promised, by the Parliament and Army, whereupon they were invited to assist them, They pray,

1. That no man be attached, &c. But according to the old Law of the Land, and whatsoever hath been done contrary thereunto, by Committees, Courts-Mar∣tial, High Courts of Justice, or the like may be abo∣lished.

2. That no man be put to his defence, but by pre∣sentment of faithful Men, and lawful witnesses face to face.

3. That no man be compelled by Oath to answer a∣gainst himself.

4. That all Suits may be determined without Appeal by a prefixt time, in the Hundred, or County Courts by Juries, and no more tedious Travelling to London, nor vexation, and consumption of mens Estates, by the Chan∣cery and other Courts of Westminster, nor further at∣tendance upon Committees, nor long Imprisonments, that Malefactors may have speedy Tryals, that Bail may not be denied, where it ought to be taken, that food and neces∣saries may be provided for Prisoners, at the Common Charge, and no Fees taken by Goalers, that all proceed∣ings in Law, may be free from the Parties to the Offi∣cers.

5. That punishments may be proportioned to the of∣fences, that nothing be deemed Treason, but what tends to the Subversion of Fundamental Liberty; and that in Criminal causes the parties damnified may be satisfied out of the Estates of the Offenders, and not confiscate to the Common-wealth, and that Witnesses may be Sworn for the accused, as well as for the Prosecutor.

6. That none be questioned or molested for matter of Conscience or Religion, the grounds of implacable trou∣ble, and the very spawn of Tyranny and Superstition, and that Tithes sprung from the same Root, and tending to the same ends, and to the obstruction of Tillage and Industry may also cease, and no inforced maintenance imposed, in the place thereof.

7. That Copyholds and the like, and the Court of Wards, and unjust descents to the Eldest Son onely, the principal remaining Badges of the Norman Conquest, and main support of Regal Tyranny, may be taken a∣way.

8. That there be no Imprisonment for Debt, but all Estates be made liable to make satisfaction, nor the rich turn Prisons into places of Protection.

9. That none be pressed for War, the power of Coun∣ties being sufficient to suppress all Insurrections and for∣rein Invasions.

10. That Trade be free, and exempt from Monopo∣lies, and disburdening Customs, Excise, and all Char∣ges, and all publick Monies to be equally raised.

11. That all Sheriffs, Justices, Coroners, Consta∣bles and the like, be annually chosen by those of the place.

12. That all Laws contrary to these Fundamentals, be repealed.

13. That Parliaments or Common-Councels of Eng∣land, may be returned to the old course to be annually elected, and satisfaction given to the Nation in point of Accounts, and the publick Faith satisfied, arrears of Soldiers paid, Juries duely chosen, Registers appointed to ascertain all Mortgages and Sale of Lands, care taken of the Poor, and wast places assigned for them, the Printing Presses set at liberty.

The Parliament debated the Business of the * 2.19 Dutch Ambassadors, and passed these resolutions to the Ambassador in answer to his Papers.

• 1. That the Lords the States General do pay to this Common-wealth, the charges and dammages they have sustained, by their attempts.
• ...

• 2. That upon payment or securing thereof, shall be a Cessation, and their Ships, and goods released.
• 3. This being assented to, and put in Execution, the security for the time to come, to be a firm amity, and interest of the 2 States for the good of both.

The Parliament received another Paper from the Dutch Ambassadors, that they were commanded Home, and desired Audience to take their leaves, which was appointed to morrow.

A Letter from the King of Denmarks Ambassa∣dors for Audience, they were appointed to have it the next day but one.

[30.] The Dutch Ambassadors had Audience in the House, with the usual Ceremonies. The Lord * 2.20 Paw made a Latine Oration, which he gave in writing to the Speaker, with a Petition from the Merchants of the Intercourse, they went all away this Night.

Letters from Amsterdam, That the Dutch are very high against the English; and for a War with them.

The Ambassadors having received the last Re∣solutions of the Parliament of England, demanding satisfaction for all their Damages, it gave such a dis∣tast to their Excellencies that they presently resol∣ved according to their Instructions to return Home, and went to Graves-End this day, and ma∣ny Letters came from Holland, mentioning the great Preparations there made for the War at Sea.

July 1652.

[1.] Much discourse was upon the departing of the Dutch Ambassadors, some Members of Par∣liament being unsatisfied with the dismission of them, and that so high Terms were insisted on by the Parliament.

[2.] Letters of 800 Irish come in, and many Thousands of them stand out because they cannot be pardoned for their Murders.

From Collonel Hewson of his Proceedings, and that, an ambush being laid by the Irish, for a Cap∣tain * 2.21 of the English and Collonel Pretty, he escaped, * 2.22 and a party sent out by Collonel Hewson killed 4 of them, released their Prisoners, and took divers Rebels and 16 Horses.

That another party sent out by him killed 40 of the Rebels, and took 30 good Horses. That Col∣lonel Hewson denied to give or take any quarter with them.

That Slego was surrendred, and that Sir Thomas Jones killed 2 Collonels, 10 Captains, and 300 of a party of 3000 of the Rebels, and took all their Horse.

[3.] Letters of the English Forces gotten into the Highlands, of Ships come into Leith with pro∣visions.

Of several late Successes in Ireland.

That the Enemy burnt Portumney Town, and Collonel Ingolsby relieved them, and routed all their Horse, and Surrounded their Foot in a Bog.

That the Irish were in the Field with about 4000 Men. That the Lord Broghill did good Execution upon the Irish, and pursued them 4 miles, took 100 Horse, and rescued a prey of 200 Beefs.

That the Lord Muskerry was come in to the Par∣liament with his Forces.

That General Blake with a gallant Fleet went * 2.23 Northwards, and left Sir George Ascue to com∣mand the rest of the Fleet in the Downs, who took * 2.24 5 Dutch Merchant-men, and General Blake took 2 * 2.25 Men of War, and 2 Merchant men. 500 Soldiers sent on Board Sir George Ascue.

That after this Sir George Ascue and the Fleet with him met with 40 Dutch Ships, took 7 of them, and burnt 4, and about 24 of them ran on ground on the French Shoar, and he pursued the rest, and this Fight was gallantly performed by him, after so long a Voyage, which his Ships had gone, and were very foul.

[5.] Letters from the Parliaments Commis∣sioners in Ireland, That Sir Charles Coote, and Col∣lonel * 2.26 Reynolds had reduced Slego. That the Lord Clanrickard had sent for a Treaty, and that the Lieutenant-General had routed a party of the Ene∣my, and marched towards Rosse. That the Lord Muskerry sent for another Treaty, that the Lord Broghill took 80 Horse, killed about 50, took Lieu∣tenant-Collonel Supple, and 2 Colours and Arms, yet the Irish were double his Number, and he re∣gained 200 Cattle.

Of Recruits come into Ireland.

[6.] A Declaration past concerning the diffe∣rences of England, with the Netherlands.

Letters from Sir George Ascue, of his Fight with * 2.27 the Dutch, who were 40 Merchants, and 4 men of War; he took 7 of them, and burnt 3, and few that ran on Shoar escaped, that the French defended them from the English, yet coming on board their Ships plundred them.

That Captain Wright made a gallant Fight with one of them, and forced him on Shoar and burnt him, and Captain Wright lost 8 men, and above 20 wounded, and Captain Wright himself lost his Leg with a great Shot, and few or none of his Officers but were wounded.

That of those Irish who submitted, not a 4th man laid down their Arms.

[9.] Letters of Recruits sent for Ireland.

That some of the Parliaments Forces were * 2.28 marched 20 Miles into the Highlands, where the Country of the Fraziers all (except one inconside∣rable Person with a few people) came in, and sub∣mitted to the Parliament.

That General Blake with a Fleet of 60 Sail, pas∣sed in Sight of Dunbar towards the North, to at∣tend * 2.29 the Holland Busses, and sent for the Frigots and Parliaments Vessels in those parts, who went to him.

That the Scots reported the Dutch to have taken 25 Sail of the Parliaments Ships in a Fight there.

That divers Barks were come in to Air, with provisions for the Parliaments Forces, and 4 Fri∣gots, and several small Vessels come thither for their Assistance.

[10.] Dr. Winston a Physitian, in the begin∣ning * 2.30 of the late Troubles, by leave of the House of Lords, went over into France, and there continued till very lately that he returned into England, in his Absence none being here to look after his Busi∣ness for him, his Estate was sequestred, as if he had been a Delinquent, and his place and lodgings (as Physick Professor in Gresham Colledge) were taken from him, tho he had never acted any thing against the Parliament, but had been out of England all the time of the Troubles, whereupon applications be∣ing made to the Committee of Sequestrations, an order was procured for his being restored to his place and lodgings in Gresham Colledge, and the Sequestration of his Estate which was 500 l. per annum was also taken off.

Letters of the Dutch preparations for Sea, and the Petitions of many of their people, to have Let∣ters of Marque against the English.

That about 60 Sail of their men of War showed themselves to Sir George Ascue's Fleet, but at∣tempted nothing.

[12.] Letters, That some eminent Scots in the Highlands, have submitted to the Parliament of England.

That there wants English Ministers in Scot∣land.

From Yarmouth, That the Hollanders have 180 Busses at Sea, and 60 men of War for their Guard, that General Blake was near them.

That Van Trump was seen in the Downs with a∣bout 100 Sail of Ships, nearer to Sir George Ascue.

That Meen heer Schaep sent to the Parliament, thanks for their civility to him, and that the States sent to forbid their Fleets from taking any more of the Ships of the Parliament.

[13.] Upon a Report from the Councel of State, the Parliament voted,

That Lieutenant-General Fleetwood, do Com∣mand in Chief the Forces in Ireland, under the * 2.31 Lord-General, and that he be one of the Commis∣sioners for the Civil affairs of Ireland.

Votes concerning the Satisfaction of Publick Faith monies, by taking Lands forfeited in Ire∣land.

Referred to a Committee to consider what Ca∣thedrals are fit to stand, or what to be pulled down, and how such as shall be pulled down, may be ap∣plied to the payment of the Publick Faith.

Debate upon a Bill for Sale of Forfeited Lands, and upon another Bill touching Receivers, &c.

Letters, That the Dutch appeared with a Fleet of 102 Sail of Ships, and 10 Fire-Ships, near Sir George Ascue, intending to Intercept some Ships * 2.32 coming to him out of the River, to whom Sir George sent to stay there, that a Squadron of 40 of the Dutch Ships came up to Sir George, within a League of him.

That 2 Plat-Forms were planted by Deal Castle, to fall upon the Enemy if they came near, but up∣on changing of the wind, they all steared away again.

Many debenters forged, upon which Purchasers were cheated. That the charge of the Survey of a * 2.33 Mannor came to 255 l. 12 s. being 226 Sheets of Paper, and the value of the Mannor but 300 l. per annum, and a life allowed upon it, so at 6 years purchase, the Reversion came to but 1800 l. where∣of half was in doubled money; and that with Fees and Charges of Conveyances &c. took off 3 parts of the purchase money.

[16.] Letters of the Agreement by the Lieu∣tenant-General Ludlow with the Lord Muskerry, and the Forces in Munster to submit to the Parlia∣ment, and Rosse to be surrendred to them.

That the Earl of Clanrickard, and the Lord Mus∣grove were come in, that the Lord Slain, was taken the last week by Collonel Stanley, and most of those with him killed, and not a considerable party of them left, and none of them have quarter given them.

[17.] Letters, That the Fleet could get no fur∣ther than Aberdeen, by reason of the contrary winds.

That Collonel Overton with his Regiment, and 3 Troops of Horse, and 2 Troops of Dragoons, * 2.34 Sailed to Ostold, and took in a strong Castle in Argyles Country.

That the Grandees and chief Gentlemen round about the Highlands, were come in to the Parlia∣ment of England, that many of the Soldiers were severely punished for stragling and plundering.

That General Blake had taken 3 or 4 of the Dutch Busses, and one man of War, and sent them up.

[19.] Letters of several Garrisons settled for the Parliament of England in the High-lands, that 600 High-landers were up in Arms. That the Lord Glencarne, and divers of the Chief of the Clans were come in to the Major-General, that the People generally speak Irish, go in their pladdes about their middles both Men and Women, & their Houses (except a few of Stone) are onely of Earth and Turfs.

That the English Forces in the Highlands, were careful to do no wrong to the Inhabitants, nor to their Corn, most of them went from their Houses, as they use to depasture their Cattle, and return not till harvest, that the English could get nothing from them for their money.

That the Holland Fleet were exactly numbred to 92 Ships, whereof 6 were Fire Ships, and 3 Galli∣ot * 2.35 Hoyes, and about 10 small Frigots about 8 or 10 Guns a piece, about 20 of them were good and firm Ships of about 30 or 40 Guns, the rest Ships of a middle Size, that four Ships more were come to them out of Zealand.

That upon the North of Whitby; the Dutch Fleet was met of about 107 Sail, and that they said they lay to find out the English Fleet.

That 20 Dutch men of War, were plying up and down by Southwold Bay, and 80 more of the Dutch discovered.

Letters pretended from Van Trump to his Friend at Rotterdam, that the English Fleet, being assaulted by him, some threw their Guns over-board, o∣thers cut their Cables, and all fled, and that he had taken 40 of them.

That new Letters of Marque were granted by the States against the English.

[20.] An Act past for relief of double As∣sessments.

Debate upon the Act for Sale of Forfeited Lands.

[23.] Letters of Pyrats from France infesting the Coast about Scilly.

That Sir George Ascue with his Fleet of 50 Sail * 2.36 went from the Downs Westward, to attend the Dutch Fleet, That Van Trump was about Newcastle, and chased 2 English Ships, who ran themselves on ground to avoid being taken by the Dutch, one of which they fired, and the other they waited for till the Sea came in, and carried her away.

Of the difficulties passed by the English Forces in the Highlands, the extremities there both of Heat * 2.37 and Cold, at this time, scorching of the Sun, and yet snow upon the mountains to cool them, that the Inhabitants faced them continually, that Veni∣son is plenty there, though Mutton be dear, and the Springs better than Sack at Leith.

That the Horse-men are apt to ride over the tops of their Houses.

That the Army had 400 Baggage Horses led by the Country-men, loaden with Bread and Cheese, that they guarded their Horses from the Corn.

[24.] Letters, That General Blake had taken * 2.38 100 of the Holland Busses, and in them 1500 men, the rest secured themselves in Bressies Bay in Scot∣land.

[26.] Letters of a Declaration presented to the Kirke Assembly at Edenburgh. Of the Lords * 2.39 dispensations towards that Land.

That the Ordinances of Jesus Christ have been pro∣stituted to a Prophane mixt multitude, the Church im∣pure.

That none should be admitted Members of a Church, but such as with a profession of truth, join such a blame∣less and Gospel-like behaviour as they be esteemed in a rational judgement of Charity, believers and their Chil∣dren, that such were the Churches formed by the Apo∣stles.

1 Rom. 7. Beloved of the Lord called Saints, and Rom. 5. 8. and 1 Cor. 6. 18. to the whole Church, and v. 19. and 20. the exhortation is to all the Church, and their faults were Sins incident to Saints though justly reproveable, and 2 Thess. 3. 15. yet are they to be esteemed Brethren.

3. Math. compared with the 7 Lu. 30. Shew that John the Baptist would not admit the Pharisees to be Baptized.

That we are under a snare by our Sinful mixture, 1 Cor. 10. 16. 17. and 2 Cor. 6. 17. touch no un∣clean thing v. 14. 15.

No hope of purging the Ministery, Elderships, or Presbyteries.

Nor can a Rule for it be agreed upon.

That the Congregational way comes nearer to the pattern of the word, than the Classical form, and that the Congregation hath full power of judging in them∣selves. Matth. 18. 15. 16. 17. 18. power of binding and loosing.

The Elders with a Congregation or without cannot be called a Church.

Act. 15. 22. 23. and Act. 14. 23. acceptation of the Word Elders.

The Church Congregational is the first Judicatory, and have the power of binding and loosing. The power of Elders onely is dogmatical.

That for the first 300 years the Church was partly Aristocratical.

Take heed lest ye be snares to the people of God in the Land, and do not censure us for following our own light and Consciences in this great matter of Concern∣ment to us.

[27.] Letters, That the English Soldiers in the * 2.40 Highlands were healthful, and civilly Treated by the Inhabitants upon Command of the Marquess of Argyle, who also entertained the Collonels with much State.

That the Country is very Mountainous, yet the Vallies rich, the People simple and ignorant in the things of God, and some of them as Brutish as Heathens.

That some of the Inhabitants did hear the Eng∣lish Preachers, with great Attention and Groan∣ing.

That the Holland Fleet was still off about New∣castle about 105 Ships, not many of those strong * 2.41 and serviceable, but weakly man'd, their men dye fase, their Victuals short, already at half allow∣ance.

That the Dutch took several English Vessels, and made their men serve under them.

[28.] Order for the Commitment of the Earl of Worcester, being come into England with∣out Licence, and for bringing him to his Tryal.

Referred to the Councel of State to take care for prevention of breaches of the Peace.

Letters from the Queen of Sweden to the Par∣liament, read, wherein She Subscribes her self, * 2.42

Vestrabona Amica, Christina.

Referred to the Committee of the Army, to re∣ceive any Propositions, for easing the Charge of the Common-wealth, and to report them to the House.

[29.] Letters, That the Dutch Fleet seised di∣vers English Fishermen and other small Vessels, and forced their men to serve in the Dutch Fleet.

Letters, That the Presbyterian Spirit in Scot∣land, blows higher, and equally storms against the * 2.43 Papists and Sectaries. That the Independents en∣deavour to settle a freedom there from the Tyran∣ny of the Presbyterian Classes, and Prelatical High Commissioners not excluding moderate dissenters from Church Government, from a Share in the advantages of Government.

[31.] That no intelligence could come from General Blake, being so far to the Northward, and * 2.44 the Dutch Fleet between him and home, but by letters from Holland to several Merchants, and to Mr. Strickland, the Parliaments late Agent there, they write,

That General Blake had fallen upon the Convoy to their fishing Busses, which were 12. men of War, and had sunk 3 of them, taken the other 9. seised upon their fishing Busses, and unloaden what fish they had taken, but afterwards dismissed their fish∣ermen, and sent them home.

That he had taken 3 Dutch Merchant men richly laden coming from the East-Indies.

That General Blake having dispersed and dimist the Dutch Fishermen, was upon his return home∣wards, and neer the Dutch Fleet, ready to ingage with them.

That Sr. George Ascue went to the Westward * 2.45 with his Fleet to convoy and bring to Plymouth▪ 5 of the English Merchants East India Ships, which he did; and nothing was attempted against him by the Dutch.

August, 1652.

[2.] Letters, That the Lord Argyle kept his word in the entertainment of the Parliaments For∣ces in the High-lands.

That some of the Brotherhood in Scotland, were, up in Arms, and gainsayed the Major-General in his approaches to them.

Of Several places in the High-lands Garrison'd by the Parliaments Forces.

A Protestation of divers Ministers in Scotland, * 2.46 to the Ministers and Elders met at Edenburgh, de∣siring a Conference about reconciling differences, and against insufficient Scandalous and corrupt Ministers in the Kirke.

From General Blake to the Parliament with a * 2.47 List of the Dutch men of War taken by him, who were to convoy the Fishermen, in all 12 Ships, two of which were since Sunk.

From the Commissioners in Ireland, That of the Lord Muskerryes party 3000 Foot, and 700 Horse-men mounted, 300 unmounted have brought in their Horse and Armes, and the Lord Muskerry himself intends to go for Spain, and to carry with him 1000 Men, and to return again, if he can ob∣tain any considerable Command.

That a party of Rebells is still in Kerry against * 2.48 whom Sir Charles Coote is marched, That the Earl of Clanrickard and the Forces under him, being bea∣ten from their fastnesses by Sir Charles Coote, and Collonel Reynolds and Collonel Venables, and by planting some Garrisons, and securing some passes, could not continue longer in a body together, so that the Earl and his party have come in and Sub∣mitted, and have leave to Transport 5000 Men.

An acknowledgement by the Officers of the Ar∣my, of the Parliaments care in sending provisions to them.

[3.] Letters of a Conference of the Commis∣sioners with the Officers of the Army, about re∣ceiving some of the Irish into Protection.

[4.] The Act past for sale of Lauds forfeited, with the names of the Persons, whose Estates were to be sold.

Letters, That General-Blake was coming South∣wards, and had sent 6 of the 12 Dutch men of War * 2.49 to attend Major-General Dean in Scotland, that di∣vers Dutch were Slain and wounded, and some of

the English, and 900 Dutch Prisoners, That Gene∣ral Blake had but 8 Frigots in this action, against 12 Dutch.

That Lieutenant Mathews was robbed by his own Servant of 300 l.

[5.] That Sir Thcophilus Jones, sent out to get some Provisions, was met with by a far greater * 2.50 Party of the Enemy, who ingaged with him, but Sir Theophilus killed 300 of them, took some Pri∣soners; and a Collonel, a Lieutenant-Collonel, 2 Majors and 8 Captains, besides Inferior Officers were Slain, and he lost not one Officer, one Lieu∣tenant was wounded, and 60 common Soldiers with Sword, but not one man of the English Slain.

That Collonel Venables rescued many Cattle, pur∣sued a party of 60 Tories, left but 6, or 8 of them, and drove others to the Mountaines, that the Ʋl∣sters desired a Treaty.

[6.] Letters of a Soldier executed for running away from his Colours.

Of pirates on the Western coast, and not a small Vessel escapes them, that they have 36 Oares.

[7.] That the Scots could not agree at Eden∣burgh.

That divers gentlemen in the High lands, sub∣scribed to act nothing prejudicial to the Common-wealth of England, and submitted to it.

[9.] Letters, That the Major-General had found out a Vale, between the Marre and Athole which would keep 1500 Horse for 14 daies, and * 2.51 therefore would stay longer in the High lands, and had sent a summons to Clankerry and his forces a∣bout 2000 men to come in to him.

That Van Trump with 125 Sail of Ships, was upon the Coast of Aberdeen, and took an English * 2.52 Ship worth 2000 l. and detained all the men, that he had 5 fire Ships, 5 Gallies for Intelligence, and 115 men of War.

That General Blake was come near to Van Trump.

That the Earl of Glencare, and divers Gentlemen were with the Major-General, who punished di∣vers Soldiers for pillaging.

That the French had taken an English Ship of 300 Tuns.

That Sir George Ascue took 4 Prizes French and Dutch, and brought in 4 English Ships. * 2.53

That Zealand and Amsterdam Petitioned the States, to give Commissions to Prince Rupert and his Fleet.

[10.] Order of Parliament for a day of Pub∣lick Humiliation.

A Bill read for the Settlement of Ireland.

An Act passed to inable the Judges of the Nor∣thern Circuit to hold Assizes at Durham.

Referred to the Lord Mayor, Aldermen, and Justices of Peace of London, to examine what Lead * 2.54 had been taken off from St. Pauls Church, and to prevent the taking away any more.

Letters, That General Blake was off at Sea near Scarborough, and that 44 Dutch Ships were near Rye in Sussex.

That the new Committee of Sequestrations in Hertford Shire, make void the former Leases of Sequestred Lands, contrary to right.

[11.] Letters, That Trump by a Storm at Sea, * 2.55 had the greatest part of his Navy lost, and spoiled, and came home with but 40 Ships, 60 men of War missing, and Two of their East-India Ships cast away.

[12.] An Act passed for settling the Affairs of Ireland, for satisfaction to the Adventurers and Soldiers out of Lands there, and for Provision of maimed Soldiers, and for the Widows of Soldiers slain in the Parliaments service there, and a List of * 2.56 the Persons excepted from pardon.

[13.] A Petition from the Officers of the * 2.57 Lord-General his Army, reciting that they had often sought the Lord, and desire these particulars to be considered.

1. That speedy and Effectual meanes, may be used for promoting the Gospel; Prophane and Scandalous Ministers be outed, good Preachers incouraged, main∣tenance for them Provided, and Tithes taken away.

2. For regulation of the Law, and what the Com∣mittee for it, have propounded, may be debated, and in∣couragement given to them.

3. That Prophane, Scandalous and Disaffected Persons in all places of Authority may be removed by Act of Parliament, and well affected Persons put in, and all to be such as fear God and hate Covetousness.

4. To redress abuses in the Collecting and Manage∣ing of Excise.

5. That publick Faith Debts be justly Satisfied, and firct to the poorer sort, and before any more of the pub∣lick Revenue be given away to particular persons.

6. For stating the Accounts and satisfying the ar∣reares of Soldiers, and care for maimed Soldiers, and Widdowes and Children of Soldiers slain.

7. That all Articles of War given to the Enemy, may be made good.

8. That the publick Revenue may be brought into one Treasury, with Officers to be appointed by Parliament, and their receipts and disbursement published half yearly.

9. That a Committee may be appointed out of the House, to consider of unnecessary Offices and Salaries.

10. For setting the Poor to work, punishing beg∣gars, and providing for the impotent.

11. For liberty in Corporations, for those who have served the Parliament to use Manual occupations.

12. For qualifications of such as shall sit in future Parliaments.

The Speaker from the Parliament returned to * 2.58 the Petitioners the hearty thanks of the house, for their great care and love to the publick.

Many were unsatisfied with this petition, look∣ing * 2.59 upon it, as improper, if not arrogant for the Officers of the Army to the Parliament their Mas∣ters, and Cromwel, was advised, to stop this way of their petitioning by the Officers of the Army with their swords in their hands, lest in time it may come too home to himself. But he seemed to slight or rather to have some design by it in order to which he put them to prepare way for him.

Letters of the Ships come with Armes, Ammu∣nition, and men, which were feared to have been lost.

That the Major-General was retreated to St. Johns Town, wanting provisions to continue the pursuit of the thievish Highlanders.

Of the Highlanders generally submitting to the Parliament of England.

That the Hart Frigot fought with 3. Dutch ships, but was taken by them.

[14.] Letters, That the Dutch fleet that ap∣peared neer the Goodwin Sands caused the Kentish men to be up in armes, lest they should land.

That a Portugal Ambassador was arrived at Ply∣mouth.

From General Blake to the Councel, that he was * 2.60 safely arrived with his Fleet from the Northward.

Of a Dutch private man of war taken after a Sharp fight, sunk by two English Catches.

[15.] Letters to the Councel of State, of Ge∣neral Blakes standing off to the coast of Holland to looke after the Dutch fleet, who were gone off from the Coast of Sussex.

[16.] Letters, That the Commissioners for the several Counties in Scotland were to meet at Eden∣burgh,

to choose Commissioners to attend the Par∣liament of England.

That the Assembly of the Kirke at Edenburgh, a∣greed upon an Act and Overture of the general As∣sembly, for the peace and Ʋnion of the Kirke. With * 2.61 a letter to the Nobility and Gentry, and all other wise and pious persons to promove the same.

[17.] Vote for transportation of all Commodi∣ties to the Parliaments quarters in Ireland custom-free.

Referred to the Councel of State to send over Preachers into Ireland and to give them Salaries.

Referred to the Commissioners in Ireland to provide for maimed Soldiers and Widowes there.

Addition of names to the Bill for sale of for∣feited lands.

Letters of a Fleet of Dutch Ships upon the Sus∣sex coast, who took and plundered some English Fishermen; that the Country thereabouts fired their Beacons.

[18.] That 42 of Trump's scattered Ships were safe at Shetland, and the Two East-India Ships sup∣posed to be lost.

That Sir George Ascue and the Dutch Fleet were ingaged about Plymouth, and there had passed be∣tween * 2.62 them 2 or 3000 Shot.

[19.] Letters, That Argyle promised to go and submit to the Parliament of England.

[20.] Letters, That Sir George Ascue was in∣gaged * 2.63 with 80 Sail of the Dutch near Plymouth, as Captain Packe related, who was brought off in a Ketch, having his Leg shot off; that 200 Men went from Shore chearfully in their Boats to re∣lieve Sir George Ascue.

That the Hollanders lost Two Ships, one sunk, and the other burnt, and got away to the French Shore; that the Fight was very hot, and the Eng∣lish lost some precious Men; the Fight continued four Hours, and the night parted them.

That Sir George Ascue lost 12 Men, and received 60 Shot in his Hull; that the Dutch had 55 Men of War and 15 Merchant-men in this Ingagement, and Sir George Ascue much fewer.

[21.] Letters of Fishermen taken by the Dutch, and some cleared by the Admiralty of Am∣sterdam.

That Sir George Ascue continued Three days fighting with the Dutch; that 100 of his wounded Men were sent into Plymouth, and 500 Men went from thence to recruit his Fleet.

[23.] Letters of divers Clans in the High-lands come in to Collonel Overton.

That some Highlanders way-laid Captain Powel in a narrow Pass, but he brake through them, and the Country rose upon others, took their Captain, and brought him to Collonel Morgan.

[24.] An Act passed for stating the Accounts of the Officers and Soldiers in Ireland.

A Commission past for managing the Affairs in Ireland, the Committee were the Lord-Ge∣neral * 2.64 Cromwel, Lieutenant-General Fleetwood, Lieutenant-General Ludlowe, Mr. Corbet, Collonel Jones, and Mr. Weaver.

Letters, That Sir George Ascue, by advice of his Council of War, went after the Dutch Fleet to the * 2.65 Coast of France, and there engaged them, who were 90 Sail of Ships, 30 of them Merchant-men, who left their Fleet upon the beginning of the In∣gagement.

That Sir George had but 38 Sail, and four Fire-ships, and four Scouts; that he, and four others, charged through the whole Body of the Enemies Fleet, and received many Shots in their Hulls, Masts, Sails, and Rigging, the Enemies design being to spoil them; but Sir George tacked a∣bout, and weathered them, and charged them all again, and so continued ingaged till dark night.

That he lost but one Fire-ship, which set her self on fire, being ready to sink, and saved her Men, and turned her among the Enemy. That the Dutch Admiral was sunk. That the next day the English Fleet kept sight of the Dutch Fleet, but would not ingage upon the French Coast, but went to the Northward to repair their Ships.

[26.] Letters of some Ships with Coal come into Yarmouth for London.

That General Blake was sailed towards Sir * 2.66 George Ascue, and had taken two Dutch Ships loaden with Victuals, and Sir George had taken Two more loaden with Salt and Strong-water.

[27.] Letters, That the Commissioners from the Shires in Scotland had chosen 21 Men, 14 for * 2.67 to represent the Countries, and Seven the Boroughs to attend the Parliament of England.

Of Forts made in the Highlands by the English Soldiers, who wrought hard in them; of Two Chiefs of the Clans standing out there, and of the obstinacy of the Kirk-men.

Of strange Apparitions in the Air at Dalkeith, shapes of Men clashing together as in a Skirmish, a great Light in a Circle.

[28.] Letters of ••ive Pyrates about the Lands-end, who have taken many English Vessels Prizes.

That Captain Hinde the famous High-way Rob∣ber was condemned at the Assizes.

That General Blake had taken Six Dutch Prizes, * 2.68 and was commanded back to the Downs, and had sent Six Frigots to Sir George Ascue.

That General Blake took Two more Dutch Pri∣zes; one of them fought single with Captain Stoakes Three hours before she did submit.

Of another rich Prize taken in Wales.

Order for an Act for payment of Debts by publick Faith, and for another to prevent mischiefs to Persons barred from relief in Equity, by plead∣ing Outlaries.

A Committee appointed to receive Petitions, and consider which of them are fit for the House, and which propet for Courts of Justice.

[29.] Letters to the Council from Captain Pen this Lords day, of his taking Six Dutch Ships * 2.69 Prizes, richly laden, one of them 30 Guns, yet none of them struck a stroak to defend them∣selves.

[30.] Letters, That the Major-General in Scotland resolved to turn every Stone, rather than to strike, to get in the Highlanders.

That about 40 Sail of Dutch Men of War on the Scotch Coast, took some English Vessels; That Five of their Men of War were cast away by a late Storm, and Two East-India Ships lost their Masts.

Complaint of corrupt Magistrates, and of igno∣rant and scandalous Ministers, abounding in Here∣ford-shire, * 2.70 and other places, that the Lord will de∣story the Parliament Party, (as the Writer fears) by permitting a Combustion within their own Bowels, and letting in a Forreign Enemy, and do his work by others more honest.

That the Scouts sent out to discover the Dutch could not find any of them.

[31.] Articles of Surrender of the Planta∣tion of Virginia into the Hands of the Parliament, * 2.71 read and confirmed, and an Order for a Patent to be granted to them.

An Act passed for setting apart a day of publick Humiliation.

September 1652.

[1.] Letters of many English and Dutch go∣ing on foot to London, their Ships taken by Gene∣ral Blake, or by Van Trump.

[2.] Order for all the Members of the House to meet to morrow to keep the Thanksgiving-day.

An Act for calling home Sea-men from Forreign Service, ordered.

Order to reserve from sale Scilly Islands, and Chatham Dock, &c.

The Committee met for receiving Petitions, and considering which were proper for the Parlia∣ment, and which for Courts of Justice and other places, that things might move in their right Channels; and to take off particular Causes from Parliament.

[3.] Letters, That the Major-General had concluded amicably with the Marquess of Argyle, and the English were returned from the Highlands * 2.72 of Scotland, and in their march, the Highlanders a∣bout 1500 were got together at a Passe where they stood upon Rocks, and inaccessible ground, and the English could only file over.

That they pretended to enquire whether the Marquess of Argyle were Prisoner, though they knew he was not; the English advanced one by one over the Passe, and the Scots stood every way pre∣pared to take their advantages upon them, yet had not the power or spirits to do it.

That the English drew up close to the Scots, till all their Rear-guard was passed over, and then marched and incamped a mile from them, and heard no more of them till they came to Dunbar∣ton; and there the Major-General came to them, and told them, that since their march away, the Scots had surprised Two of their Garrisons in the Highlands.

That the Highlanders took in Turbet Castle (which was yielded to them by Lieutenant Gillot) Ten Barrels of Powder, with Match and Bul∣let, 5000 weight of Cheese, and 26 Baggs of Bisket.

That they seised upon 40 English Foot, pretend∣ing that they did it, because their Marquess of Argyle was carried away Prisoner, which they knew was not so, but they used the Prisoners very civilly.

[4.] Letters, That the Six Frigots sent from General Blake to Sir George Ascue, were fitted to go to him, and that Sir George was ready to set to Sea again.

That the Dutch have 50 Sail more of Ships to joyn with their Fleet; that they took Three English * 2.73 Ships near the Zound, one of which was re-taken by a Parliament Frigot; that 18 of their Frigots were appointed for Guard of the Northern Coast.

[6.] Letters of setling the Winter Quarters, and delivering out Provisions to the Forces in Scotland.

Of a Regiment of Foot disbanded in Scotland, and some Troops ordered for England, to lessen the Charge.

That Van Trump desired to be excused from going to Sea, and that De Wit was appointed by the States to command in chief their Navy; * 2.74 that they had not half Men enough to man-their Fleet.

That upon a Petition of the English Merchants at Elsenour, the King of Denmark received them * 2.75 into his protection; that 14 of the English Ships going away, the Dutch followed them into Elsnour * 2.76 Road, and took away one Ship and a Catch of the English there; another English Ship got under the Castle; that the Dutch-man coming back with his Prize from the Baltick Sea, by the Zound, the Eng∣lish Ship, who had formerly escaped him, stood off, and rescued his Fellow again.

That the Dutch-man attempted again to board the English Ships, but the King of Denmarks Ca∣stle defended them, and shot the Dutch Ship through and through, and she stole away in the night.

[7.] An Act passed for allowing the Deben∣ters of the Northern Officers, and for securing them out of the Kings Lands.

Order for Sir John Winter, Prisoner in the Tower, being sick, to have his Liberty upon Se∣curity to be taken by the Council.

The Bill for sale of Forfeited Lands, re-commit∣ted upon Debate.

A Committee to consider how obstructions of Trade from Germany may be removed.

The Act passed for constituting Commissioners for Ireland. * 2.77

Letters of a strong Fort of the Rebels surren∣dred upon Articles to Collonel Zanchey, who lost 300 of his Horses by sickness.

That several of the Irish Commanders were shipped away with 1005 Men.

Of the Plague in Ʋlster, and great Sickness a∣mong their Horses.

That General Blake took Seven French Men of * 2.78 War, supposed to be bound for relief of Dun∣kirk; that 40 Dutch Ships were seen near the Nesse Point.

[9.] Letters, That since the Act for propaga∣ting the Gospel in Wales, there were 150 good * 2.79 Preachers in the 13 Welch Counties; most of them preached Three or Four times a week.

That in every Market-Town there, were pla∣ced one School-master, and in most great Towns Two School-masters, able, learned, and Univer∣sity Men.

That the Tithes were all employed to the uses directed by the Act of Parliament.

• 1. To maintain Godly Ministers.
• 2. School-masters.
• 3. The fifth part to the Wives and Children of the ejected Clergy.
• 4. To pay Taxes.
• 5. To pay the Officers.

Of divers of the Rebels submitting to the Par∣liament.

That the Irish, though double and treble in num∣ber, * 2.80 would not fight with Collonel Venables, but got into Bogs and Fastnesses, and were full of di∣visions among themselves; that his Horse being tired out, he consented to a Treaty, but it broke off, because Collonel Venables would not consent to pardon Murder and Robbery.

[10.] Letters of a Danish Ship come in to In∣nernesse loaden with Deale, and related, that a great part of the Dutch Fleet was cast away by storm up∣on the Coast of Shetland.

That some thousands of the Highlanders were up in Arms in the Lord Argyles Country, yet he pretended ignorance thereof; that Relief was sent by Sea, to the Parliaments Garrisons there.

That the Judges newly made, and sent from * 2.81 England, went their Circuits in Scotland.

[11.] Order, That the Council of State do send home all the French Prisoners lately taken in their Ships by our Fleet, to such Ports of France as they shall think fit.

An Act for prohibiting all correspondence with the States-General and People there, com∣mitted.

Orders about Compositions of Delinquents.

Letters, That the Six Frigots sent by Ge∣neral Blake, were fitted and come to Sir George Ascue.

[13.] Letters of 14 Letters of Marque sent from the Parliament into Scotland; and that many Holland Free-booters were upon that Coast.

That the Highlanders sent a Letter to Major-General Deane, excusing their late Actions through * 2.82 mistakes, and that they would shortly send one of their own number to him to satisfie him. He answer∣ed, That he would be ready to hear what they had to offer, requiring them in the mean time to restore all things to their former state, and to forbear all acts of Hostility.

That the Gentlemen in Argyle-shire sent a very submissive Letter and Complement to the Major-General, promising to send Two Commissioners fully impowered to give him all the satisfaction that can be required.

Of a Garrison of the Parliaments in the Highlands surprised whilst the Soldiers were gone a nutting.

That the last Summers Expedition had cost the * 2.83 States 200000 l. which was hardly raised, and Sol∣diers sent to gather it, and the States met to set another Tax of 200000 l. and that the Sea-men cry aloud for Gelt, and the People are against the War.

[14.] An Additional Act passed for sale of Fee-farm Rents.

Letters from the King of Denmark read in Par∣liament, and referred to the Council of State, and a Letter from the Queen of Sweden referred to the Council.

Vote, That Mr. Rogers be Major of the Town of Hull for a year, and that the Town shall re∣ceive no prejudice thereby in their Liberties.

Referred to a Committee to consider how Corporations may be so setled, as would be most suitable to the Government of a Common-wealth.

An Alderman of Hull discharged, and a new one named in his place by the House.

A Bill for setting a Period to this Parliament, * 2.84 and providing for succeeding Parliaments, com∣mitted.

Referred to the Council of State to cause a con∣venient place in Westminster to be provided for the Scotch Commissioners.

Letters of a Fleet of Dutch appearing near Deale Castle of 70 Sail, and that they passed Westward, some of a very great force, bigger than any they had before.

That Three French Prizes and a Hollander of 350 Tun were brought into Plymouth; That Ge∣neral Blake passed by there, and sent for Sir George Ascue, who came to him, and they sailed West∣ward.

[17.] That one Sikes was imprisoned by the Judges at York, for publishing a kind of Procla∣mation against Tithes; and One Man and Three Women sentenced for Quakers, for saying, That all who preach for hire are Thieves and Robbers.

Order for 1000 l. out of the Excise for maimed Soldiers.

Referred to the Council to appoint a time for the Portugal Ambassadors coming to London.

Letters of the Sickness in Dublin.

Of Pyrates in Chester Road.

That a Fleet of about 50 Dutch came near Scilly, that some Ketches made towards them, supposing they had been Sir George Ascues Fleet; but they came back again, though pursued.

Of Mischief done by the French Men of War.

That General Blake was in the Channel, and had * 2.85 taken 16 Prizes, Dutch and French Merchants, before the Storm parted his Fleet, and Ten more taken since.

[18.] Letters, That the Dutch Fleet met with some Merchants, some of them ran a-ground, and the others got safe under Dover Castle.

That St. Maloes Men seised the Ships and Goods of the English there, because Blake had taken some of their Ships. That the French Ships took seve∣ral English Vessels; that 100 Colliers were gone with a Convoy to London.

[20.] Letters of the persidiousness of the Highlanders in Arms, against whom the Country complain, and disown them.

That the Commissioners of the General As∣sembly proclaimed a Fast, with their Reasons for it.

That many of the Dutch Fleet were lost by storm, and 13 of them in the Texel; that their Sea-men coming on shoar, demanded their Pay; * 2.86 and being answered, that they must go on Board a∣gain, and they should have half pay, this so inraged them, that they got together, and left their Ships, and were in a high mutiny.

That the States sent out their Land Forces, who fell upon the Sea-men, killed divers of them, and dispersed the rest, and hanged up Two of the chief Mutineers, to see which Execution, a mul∣titude of People flocked together, so that the Lords feared a new Mutiny, and caused the Sol∣diers to fire upon the People, who killed Eight of them, but the Sea-men were more inraged.

[21.] Letters from Blake, That the Dutch Fleet avoided fighting with him, and slipt from him, though more in number than he was, and so he sailed Westward.

Letters, That Lieutenant-General Fleetwood, and all his Company, were safe landed at Waterford in Ireland.

[22.] Letters, That a Moss-Trooper at New-Castle was sent from the Assizes to be tryed in Scotland by a Councel of War.

Of several Apparitions of Horse-men, &c. in the Air.

[23.] Letters of a Fleet of about 60 or 70 Sail of tall Ships near Scilly, by which they passed West South West, and were the Dutch Fleet, who glean∣ed up their scattered Ships.

[24.] Letters of the Cheshire Channel so infe∣sted with Pyrates, that it hindered the intercourse with Ireland; of Provisions shipping at Chester for Aire in Scotland. * 2.87

That both the Northern and Western Highlan∣ders were revolted.

That they invited 30 of the Parliaments Offi∣cers and Soldiers to a Feast, and took them Priso∣ners, and killed Ten of them.

That 600 Indictments were preserred to the * 2.88 English Judges in Scotland.

[25.] Letters, That General Blake with his Fleet of 108 Sail, passed by Weymouth to the East-ward, upon an Information, that the Dutch Fleet had given him a go-by.

That Four or Five of the Dutch Fleet fell upon the Assurance Frigot, but she got off from them, and came to General Blake, who immediately * 2.89 hoised sail after them, but they escaped him, who ordered his Fleet to sail from the English to the French Coast side by side within Gun-shot of one another, whereby they scoured the whole Chan∣nel.

From Captain Stoaks, That he made up to two Ships, and found them to have Swedish Colours, but coming aboard them he discovered them to be Guinnee Ships, laden with gold oare, and Elephants teeth, and letters directed to Amsterdam and other parts of Holland.

That the Captain believing the Ships to belong to the Dutch brought them into Plymouth, that their loading was worth 80000l.

That 4 English men of War, and 4 Merchant men, were in ••ight with 9 Dutch men of War neer Genoa.

That General Blake and Sr. George Ascue with their Fleets, in all 140 Sayle, were come into the Downes, 20 of them Merchant Ships which he sent to London.

That 3 English fishermen brought to Yarmouth 3 Dutch Busses.

That the Scouts brought news to General Blake in the Downes of a great fleet of Hollanders, and he presently weighed to be in pursuit of them.

That his Fleet had got the wind of the Dutch Fleet, and a speedy Ingagement was expected.

[27.] Letters of animosities among the Ministers in Scotland, and that their fast day was not observ∣ed, and their divisions brought them near to fight∣ing in the Church. That the Scotch Commissioners were gone for England.

Of the two Guinnee Ships taken by Captain Stoakes, 50000l in gold in one of them, and Elephants teeth worth 10000l.

Command from Blake for all Seamen to come on board, on pain of death.

Letters, That De Witt was on the back of the Goodwin sands, with 50 or 60 saile of Ships, and Blake neer him.

That Blake called a Councel of War who thought not fit to put out to Sea, it being neer night. That the Dutch were all out of sight the next day before noon standing over towards their own Shore. Which day proved so soul that Blakes fleet could not goe to them, that they are to convoy 200 of their Merchant men.

That a Private Man of War took 3 Dutch Pri∣zes.

That the Portugal Ambassador was brought with 50 Coaches into London.

[28.] Letters from the Portugal Ambassador to the Speaker read, and his Audience appointed.

Referred to the Councel of State to take order for the building of 30 new Frigots.

Order that the Scaffolds about Pauls be taken down, and sold towards payment of publick faith debts.

Letters from the Duke of Venice read, and re∣ferred to the Councel of State.

Referred to the Councel to draw up letters of * 2.90 thanks to the Duke of Tuscany for his civil usage of the English Merchants.

An Act passed for relief of persons upon Arti∣cles of War. * 2.91

[30.] The Portugal Ambassador had his audi∣ence in Parliament, and went in greater state than any Ambassador, that came yet to the Parliament, he presented his Credentials, which were refer∣red to the Councel of State.

Mr. Dennis, formerly of the Kings party, being chosen Major of Barnstaple the Towns-men petiti∣oned against him, and an Act was committed for disabling such persons to be elected, or to be ele∣ctors of any to publick Offices.

Letters of Coal Ships sayling towards London, having 200 Ordnance among them.

October 1652. * 2.92

[1.] Letters of overtures made by the Mar∣quess of Argyle, for composing the late business in the Highlands.

Of the Sickness abated in Ireland, and that all the Tories there, except 500 in the North, had laid down Arms.

That a great Councel of Officers from all parts there, was called to consult with Lieutenant-Ge∣neral Fleetwood now come to them.

Letters, That General Blake was making what hast he could to ingage about 70 Sail of the Dutch, by the Goodwyn.

[2.] Letters of Captain Bodiloe near to Le∣gorne, * 2.93 with the Phaenix, and other Ships fought with 10 of the Dutch men of War near 3 days, that 4 of their best Ships surrounded Captain Bo∣diloe, and fought him very stoutly above 4 hours, but he forced them to fall off, and leave her, many were shot and wounded on both sides.

That the Captain of the Phaenix fought with a Dutch Ship and boarded her, and the Phaenix being empty of men, who were plundering the Dutch Ship, in the mean time, another Dutch Ship came by, and boarded and took the Phaenix, and regain∣ed their own Ship likewise.

That the English and Dutch Fleets were in Fight near the Downs.

That Blake on Tuesday last when the Fight be∣gan, took 3 of the Dutch men of War, and disa∣bled 3 more, and chased them all Wednesday, and part of Thursday, and that the Fight was very hot.

[4.] Letters, That 60 Persons Men and Wo∣men, * 2.94 were accused before the Commissioners, for Administration of Justice in Scotland, at the last Circuit, for Witches, but they found so much Ma∣lice, and so little proof against them, that none were Condemned.

That Argyle had undertaken to bring in all the Highlanders, and to release all the English Priso∣ners there.

Of a Ship loaden with Malt and Hops come in to Leith.

[5.] Letters of the last Ingagement with the * 2.95 Dutch Fleet, thus.

Since the return of our Fleet out of the West upon the 14 of September, Sir George Ascue with his Barbadoes Fleet, set Sail out of the Downs, himself for Chatham, and the rest for London.

September 25. The Holland Fleet appeared on the back side of the Goodwyn, but that night were driven back by a Storm.

26 September, they appeared again, but were for∣ced away by another Storm.

27 September, they appeared the third time.

Upon first appearance it was agreed upon by a Councel of War, that afternoon, to set Sail the next morning.

But in the interim the Weather proved so te∣dious, that we could not with safety weigh till the 28, and then the General with the Fleet got under Sail, having a fresh Gale at W. by N.

At noon we discovered the Dutch, and about 3 in the Afternoon, the General not having above 3 of his Squadron up with him (the rest of our Fleet being a League or 2 a stern) onely Vice-Admiral Pen, with most of his Squadron was near him.

Who demanded whether he should leave the General, and bear up among the Enemy, it was answered, that we should bear in all together, so soon as some more of our Fleet should come up.

In this time, De Witt who commanded the Dutch Fleet, consisting of about 59 all Men of War, and some small Vessels, left his own Ship of 40 Guns, and went aboard the biggest of the India Ships of 56 Guns.

About 4 a Clock most of our Fleet being come near, they gave some single shot in a bravadoe, to our General who bore in among them, and the Vice-Admiral fil'd to bear after him.

But it pleased God to disappoint us, being grounded upon a Sand, called the Kentish Knock, under which they placed themselves, that we might be necessitated to mischief, in case we indeavoured the weather gage; and heaving the lead over-board, we found we had not 3 Fathom of Wa∣ter.

Our General Sailing to Windward of their Ad∣miral, was on ground, the Soveraign was near Musket shot without us, and struck several times, so did the Resolution, as also the Vice-Admiral even as they were ingaged, and the Andrew.

But it pleased God to deliver them, that they got off immediately without any harm, and he turned it to our advantage, because being forced thereby to Tack our Ship to clear our Selves of the Sands, it fell out better for doing execution upon the Enemy, than we could have cast it our selves.

For as the Dutch Fleet cleared themselves of our General, he standing to the Northward, and they to the Southward, we fell pat to receive them, and so staid by them, till night parted us.

What damage we did them cannot be exactly known, and what they did us (blessed be God) was not much.

Three of their Ships were wholly disabled at the first brunt, having lost all their Masts, and a∣nother as she was towing off the Rear-Admiral was taken by Captain Mildmay, and the 2 day they were many less in number than the first.

The Rear-Admiral and 2 other Captains are Prisoners, who say, they conceive by the striking of De-witts antient, and the putting forth another of a blew Colour, that he is slain.

We have not above 40 slain in all our Fleet, whereof one Officer Captain Jervis, and not many wounded, we lost not one Ship or Frigot, nor did any Vessel shrink from their work, the Merchant-Men of War fell to it to purpose, and a great Spirit of Resolution and Gallantry possessed our whole Fleet.

Our Tackle and Masts were somewhat shatter∣ed as is usual in such Disputes, at first our Enemies appeared very Resolute, having placed themselves in a Fighting posture, before our Ships came up, divided into 3 Squadrons, and behaved themselves very stoutly, but seemed to Flag towards the lat∣ter end. And I believe if providence had allowed us one hour more, we had made a total end of them.

After this they abode all night (as we perceiv∣ed by their lights) at a small distance to Leeward of us, which made us suppose they would have fought us next morning. But then as the day broke, we saw them North-East, more than two Leagues off us, we bore up to them, but the wind coming contrary so that they had the wind of us, we could not get up to them.

Our General commanded our Frigots to plye up to them as neer as they could, and keep firing at them, while the rest of us, did our best to get neer them. Some shot was spent, but they hoysed all their Sailes, and ran for it.

September 30. By day-light they were as far as we could discern them at top Mast head, we pur∣sued them, as far as in sight of West Gabel in Zea∣land, and saw them run into Goree. Whereupon it was concluded by a Councel of War, seeing we were so neer their Shallowes, and some of the Fri∣gots wanting Victuals, to return to the Downs.

We were commanded not to fire till we came close to them, and our Artillery did great Execu∣tion.

That Captain Mildmay took the Dutch Rear Admiral, and another Vessel in sight of their fleet, took the Reare Admiral, 2 Captains, and 80 Pri∣soners, and left the Ship, with the dead in her, sink∣ing in the Sea.

That 3, or 4 other of their Ships were seen to sink, the whole Fleet was the choycest of all their Ships.

Referred to the Councel to Treat with the Por∣tugal Ambassador, and to report his proposals to the House.

Order touching Delinquents to be put into the Act of Confiscation.

[8.] Letters of the sickness increasing much at Dublyn, of much peace in Ireland, and that the * 2.96 inhabitants generally come in, and sit down quietly in their houses. No formed troopes but in some boggs in Ʋlster, which Reynolds and Waller are pursuing, and Garrisons planting for the safety of that Country.

That the Parliament have 500 Garrisons there, which fetter the Rebels on all sides.

Of a mutiny among the English Soldiers at Lieth, for abating 12 d. a week out of their pay towards a store, 4 of them were sentenced by a Council of War, but the Governour upon their Petition or∣dered them to cast lots, and it fell upon one of them who was the most Seditious.

Of the great respect shewed to the Commissio∣ners for Administration of Justice in all places in Scotland, where they came.

[9.] Letters of great Guns heard at Falmouth to go off, and of 2 French Prizes brought thi∣ther.

Of French and Dutch Pikeroons taking many English Fishermen, and other small Vessels upon the Western Coast.

That Captain Stoner met with a Dutch Mer∣chant man loaden with Gold and rich Commodi∣ties worth 60000 l. who fought stoutly till she begun to sink, and some of the English Marriners leaping aboard her for greediness of plunder, sunk with her.

[11.] Letters of the proceedings of the Com∣missioners for Administration of Justice in Scot∣land.

Of great contests in the Kirke there, between the Assembly and the Protestors.

That the Advice Frigot (it is feared) is lost, that the Dutch were Frighted with the Soveraign, and call her the Golden Divel.

That the Dutch Ambassador in Denmark presseth * 2.97 for Ships there against the Enemies of the Dutch. That when the Dutch Fleet were last upon the Coast of Scotland, they lost 7 of their Ships by storm, and without saving the life of any but one Boy.

[12.] An Act past touching Claimes.

An Act past to disable Delinquents from bear∣ing any Office, and to have Vote in any Electi∣ons.

The Bill for uniting Scotland into one Common-wealth * 2.98 with England, referred to a Committee to meet with the Deputies come from Scotland in the House of Lords.

Order about setling Courts of Judicature in Scotland.

Letters, That General Blake examined some de∣faults, about the not sufficiently charging the Guns * 2.99

of the Soveraign in the late Fight, and the want of courage in one Captain.

That the General sent some Ships towards Hol∣land Coast, and many up and down scouting.

From Amsterdam, that 2000 wounded men were brought to Shoar, that De Witt complained of ma∣ny of his Captains that ran away, and that the Eng∣lish were more in number than he.

That the King of Denmark hath ordered the Eng∣lish Merchants in the Zundt to be brought under his * 2.100 Castle at Elsenour, intending to confiscate them, and hath joined 5 of his Ships with the Dutch.

[13.] The day of publick Fast solemnly ob∣served by the Parliament

[15.] Letters of a Lamprus Fish taken near Leith, as big as a London wherry.

That not above 30 or 40 Irish appear together, who are pursued by the English Garrisons.

Of Frigots to keep the Irish Coast.

That at the Assizes at Chester, there were but 3 Causes, whereas there used to be 100.

Of Recruits Shipped for Ireland.

[16.] Of a free booter taken in the West, and of a Holland Busse taken, but run upon an Anchor at Dartmouth, and was bulged, and another sunk.

[18.] That De Witt's Fleet was gone into Go∣ree, and he went to the Hague to excuse himself, * 2.101 and laid the blame upon some of his Captains Cowardice, and the States appointed Commissio∣ners to examine the matter.

That the 18 English Men of War sent to the Sound were arrived there, and the Dutch sent more * 2.102 thither, and the King of Denmark staid the Eng∣lish Merchant men there, and offers the Dutch, the Sum of mony which he is bound to furnish them with in time of War, and to prohibit the English to pass the Zundt during their War with the Dutch.

That the English Merchants were protected at Porta Longone against the Dutch there.

Of a High Court of Justice prepared at Kilken∣ny for Tryal of the Chief of the Irish Rebels.

That the English Fleet took Ten Dutch Ships in the Narrow Sea.

Of an Insurrection in Flushing against those that were for the War with the English, and some wo∣men * 2.103 whose Husbands were slain in the War, were with them, that the English Frigots Cruise to and fro in the Channel, and take many Ships.

[19.] Letters, That Captain Ball lost his Ship the Antelope of 54 Guns, upon the Coast of Shet∣land, onely himself and Company saved.

That the English men in the Merchants Ships at Elsenour, when they saw no hopes of those Ships to * 2.104 be discharged by the King of Denmark, they all came away to the English Fleet sent thither.

That this Fleet in their return from Denmark lost the Antelope (one of their number) run a Shoar on the Coast of Jutland. That the rest took 16 Dutch Ships on the Dogger-b••nk, and a Dutch free booter.

[20.] Committee for the Scots Union, met the Commissioners for Scotland, and they had a * 2.105 Solemn debate about that business.

[21.] Letters, That the King of Scots was complemented by the French Court, and the Lord Digby made Governour of the Bastile at Paris.

[22.] Letters, That Captain Mutlo fell upon the Highlanders, killed divers of them, and burnt their Corn and Houses.

Of a strong Convoy sent to bring the Ships from thence with Coal for London, and that the Colliers were well provided for defence.

[23.] Letters of 3 Dutch men of War brought in Prize to Yarmouth, that were free booters.

Of 15 Dutch Ships loaden with Pitch, Tarr, Masts, &c. and 2 men of War their Convoy, after a short dispute taken by some English men of War.

[25.] Letters of the Town of Edenburgh, troubling the English Merchants for Trading there, unless they be free of the Town, and will live there.

That the High Court of Justice sat at Kilkenny, in the same state as it had done in England.

That 7000 Irish were landed in Spain, to serve * 2.106 that King, and as many more ready to be Shipt for Spain.

That the Irish were wholly subdued, and not a∣bove 6 or 700 of them left in Arms, whereof, and of the Affairs of Ireland, Lieutenant-General Fleetwood by his Letters gave an account to the Parliament.

[26.] An Act past for continuing the Com∣missioners of Scotland.

An Act past for continuing the Commissioners for compounding.

The Petition of the Lord Muskerry referred to the Councel of State.

A Pamphlet against the Parliament referred to be examined by the Councel. And Mr. Lillye's Book of Astrological Predictions referred to the Committee of plundered Ministers.

Order for Audience for the King of Denmark's Ambassadors.

A Letter from the Duke of Vendosme, referred to a Committee.

Votes against Delinquents.

Of a Holland Ship of 100 Tuns taken. * 2.107

[27.] Alderman Fowke was presented to the Parliament, for Lord Mayor of London for the next year, the Recorder made a Speech to the House thereupon, and in commendation of the Al∣derman, and Mr. Speaker by command of the House made a Speech in answer of the Recorder's, and approved of the Choice.

[29.] The Danish Ambassadors had Audience, and took their leave of the Parliament.

Order to exclude private Business for Fourteen dayes.

Order for a Bill to Confiscate some Persons Estates in Scotland, and for an Act of Grace to others.

Order for maintenance for Ministers to be put into Livings in Scotland.

Letters, That the Commissioners for Admini∣stration * 2.108 of Justice in Scotland, sat at Edenburgh, and had many Criminal matters brought before them, 60 in a day for Adultery, Incest, &c. in the Court, and proof against few of them, and the Malice of People against one another so great, that they brought accusations for facts done 20 years past, and the greatest proof against them, was a forced Confession before the Kirke.

That some accused for Witches, had been Tor∣tured * 2.109 to make them Confess, by tying their Thumbs behind them, and then hanging them up by their Thumbs, while two Highlanders whipped them; after which, they set lighted Candles to the Soles of their Feet, and between their Toes, then burned them, by putting light Candles into their Mouths, and then burning them in the Head.

That 6 of them were accused, of whom 4 of them dyed of the Torture. The Judges resolved to examine the business, and to find out these Scots Tormentors, that another woman being accused for a Witch, was kept 28 days with only Bread and Water, and stript naked and laid upon a cold Stone, with onely Hair Cloath over her, that among the Accused, others had Hair Shirts dipped in

Vinegar, put over them, to fetch off the Skin.

That the Marquess of Argyle had procured the release of the English Prisoners in the Highlands, and used them very civilly.

[30.] Letters of some Dutch men of War ap∣pearing near Yarmouth, but upon sight of one of the Parliaments Frigots, they got away.

That the Dutch Free-booters, had taken 3 Eng∣lish Vessels, near Newcastle.

That one of the Parliaments Frigots near Ply∣mouth, fought 2 hours with 2 Dutch men of War till night parted them.

Of 2 Prizes taken by a private man of War, one Dutch and the other a French Vessel laden with Wine and Salt.

Of a Holland Prize brought into Falmouth by a Parliament Frigot, and was laden with considera∣ble goods.

November 1652.

[1.] Letters of a little unruliness in the Regi∣ments lately come to Scotland for Recruits; but 2 of them being Sentenced by a Court-Martial, the rest were quiet.

That at the Assizes in Scotland 1000 appeared be∣fore the Judges, accused for Adulteries, and o∣ther * 2.110 Crimes committed 20 and 30 years past. No Lords or Lairds brought in.

That since the Parliaments Convoys came on the North Coast, no Dutch men of War appeared. That above 100 Colliers were ready to set Sail for London with them.

Of 7 Dutch Ships loaden, taken by one of the Parliaments Frigots upon the Western Coast, but pretend themselves Hamburgers.

Of 3 Dutch Vessels taken near the Lands end.

[2.] Debate upon the Delinquents Bill, and divers Voted to be inserted, and others left out.

Order for the Education of the Children of Sir Christopher Nevil, out of his Estate.

Letters from Amsterdam of their Fleet ready to * 2.111 come forth, being 120 Sail, whereof 20 Fire Ships, Trumps design being to Convoy their Merchants being 200 Sail. That the King of Denmark was forward to assist the Dutch, who promised to save him harmless, that Sweeden refused to assist the Dutch.

Of 3 Ships taken by the Pelican, and 2 great Dutch Ships taken by the Non-such, which had in them 700000 Dollars, the one pretends to be a Lubeker, the other an Hamburger, and 2 more brought into the Downs.

That the English Ships at Porte Longone, were beset with the Dutch, who had leave to come into the Harbour upon pretence to bury some of their Officers slain in the late Ingagement with the Eng∣lish, and both lay quiet there.

That the Governour planted his Guns, and doubled his Watch, resolving not to permit them to Fight.

A Petition from the Merchants in Scotland, agreed upon to the Parliament, that those in Leith, * 2.112 and other places, may not be forced to go to Eden∣burgh, and live there under their Slavery.

That a Town of English being there will be much for the safety of the Parliaments Affairs in Scot∣land.

[3.] We came to some agreement of Propo∣posals to be presented to the Parliament, from the * 2.113 Committee for the Scotch Union.

[4.] Letters of the 7 Ships taken, who pre∣tended * 2.114 to be Hamburgers, but had Holland Co∣lours up, and letters to Amsterdam.

[5.] Letters, That the few Irish yet standing out, were pent up in an Island, and make the Sea their Shelter and Defence.

Of Pickeroons upon that Coast.

That the Ʋlster Irish were agreed upon the Arti∣cles to lay down Armes.

Of 200 Collyers set Sail for London.

[6.] Letters of Dutch Free-booters taking Fish from Fishermen, and so let them go.

That a Merchant Ship of 400 Tun, was by foul Weather cast upon the Kentish Shore where she stuck, and the Lord of the Mannor, and People thereabouts, took her Lading to the value of 40000 l.

[7.] Letters, That in the Levant Seas, a small * 2.115 Fleet of the English men of War Convoying cer∣tain Merchant men from Scandaroon, were una∣wares assailed by 11 Sail of Dutch men of War, who having great advantage of the English, and much over-powring them in number, took and blew up about 5 of the English Ships.

Several other Letters touching Prizes taken by the Dutch from the English, but many more from the Dutch by the English; and of Mischief done by the Pickeroons on the English Coasts, and of the pursuit and taking of some of them by the Parlia∣ments Men of War.

That the business in Ireland was almost finished, and the Enemy there in effect wholly subdued; and many of the Irish Transported beyond Seas, not a body of them considerable to be met within the Field.

That the Forces under General Monk in Scotland had great success there, taking in divers strong places, and giving many defeats to the Kings For∣ces in the Highlands.

The debate upon the Bill for the Scotch Ʋnion, * 2.116 and for an Act of Oblivion there, was so far pro∣ceeded in by the Committee, that they ordered the Report thereof to be made to the Parliament.

It was about this time, that the Lord-General Cromwell meeting with Whitelock, saluted him with * 2.117 more than ordinary courtesie, and desired him to walk aside with him, that they might have some private discourse together, Whitelock waited on him, and he began the discourse betwixt them, which was to this effect.

Cromwell.

My Lord Whitelock, I know your * 2.118 faithfulness and ingagement in the same good Cause with my self, and the rest of our Friends, and I know your ability in Judgment, and your particular Friend∣ship and Affection for me, indeed I am sufficiently sa∣tisfied in these things, and therefore I desire to advise with you in the main and most important Affairs rela∣ting to our present condition.

Whitelock.

Your Excellency hath known me long, and I think will say that you never knew any unfaith∣fulness or breach of trust by me, and for my particular Affection to your Person, your Favours to me, and your publick Services, have deserved more than I can mani∣fest, onely there is (with your Favour) a mistake in this one thing, touching my weak judgment, which is unca∣pable to do any considerable service for your self, or this Common-wealth; yet to the utmost of my power, I shall be ready to serve you, and that with all diligence and faithfulness.

Cromwell.

I have cause to be, and am without the least scruple of your Faithfulness, and I know your kindness to me your old Friend, and your abilities to serve the Common-wealth, and there are enough besides me that can testifie it: and I believe our Ingagements for this Common-wealth have been and are as deep as

most mens, and there never was more need of advice, and solid hearty Counsel, than the present State of our Affairs doth require.

Whitelock.

I suppose no man will mention his par∣ticular ingagement in this cause, at the same time when your Excellencies ingagement is remembred, yet to my capacity, and in my station, few men have ingaged further than I have done, and that (besides the good∣ness of your own nature and personal knowledge of me) will keep you from any jealousie of my Faithfulness.

Cromwel.

I wish there were no more ground of Suspition of others, than of you, I can trust you with my life, and the most secret matters relating to our business, and to that end I have now desired a little private discourse with you; and really (My Lord) there is very great cause for us, to consider the dange∣rous condition we are all in, and how to make good our station, to improve the Mercies and Successes which God hath given us, and not to be fooled out of them again, nor to be broken in pieces, by our particular jar∣rings and animosities one against another, but to unite our Councels, and hands, and hearts, to make good what we have so dearly bought, with so much hazard, blood, and treasure, and that the Lord having given us an en∣tire Conquest over our Enemies, we should not now hazard all again by our private Janglings, and bring those Mischiefs upon our selves, which our Enemies could never do.

Whitelock.

My Lord, I look upon our present danger, as greater than ever it was in the Field, and (as your Excellency truly observes) our Proneness to destroy our Selves, when our Enemies could not do it. It is no strange thing for a gallant Army (as yours is) after full conquest of their Enemies, to grow into Fa∣ctions and Ambitious designs, and it is a wonder to me, that they are not in high Mutinies, their Spirits being active, and few thinking their services to be duely re∣warded, and the emulation of the Officers breaking out daily more and more, in this time of their vacancy from their imployment; besides the private Soldiers, it may be feared, will in this time of their Idleness, grow into disorder, and it is your excellent Conduct, which under God, hath kept them so long in discipline, and free from Mutinies.

Cromwell.

I have used and shall use the utmost of my poor endeavours to keep them all in order and obe∣dience.

Whitelock.

Your Excellency hath done it hitherto even to admiration.

Cromwell.

Truly God hath blest me in it exceed∣ingly, and I hope will do so still. Your Lordship hath observed most truly the inclinations of the Officers of the Army to particular Factions, and to murmurings, that they are not rewarded according to their deserts, that others who have adventured least, have gained most, and they have neither profit, nor preferment, nor place in government, which others hold, who have un∣dergone no hardships nor hazards for the Common-wealth, and herein they have too much of truth, yet their insolency is very great, and their influence upon the private Soldiers works them to the like discontents and murmurings.

Then as for the Members of Parliament, the Army begins to have a strange distast against them, and I wish there were not too much cause for it, and really their pride, and ambition, and self-seeking, ingrossing all places of honour and profit to themselves, and their Friends, and their daily breaking forth into new and violent parties and factions,

Their delays of Business, and design to perpetuate themselves, and to continue the power in their own hands, their medling in private matters between party and party, contrary to the institution of Parliaments, and their injustice, and partiality in those matters, and the Scandalous Lives of some of the chief of them, these things (My Lord) do give too much ground for peo∣ple to open their mouthes against them, and to dislike them.

Nor can they be kept within the bounds of Justice, and Law, or Reason, they themselves being the supream Power of the Nation, lyable to no account to any, nor to be controuled or regulated by any other power; there being none superior, or coordinate with them.

So that unless there be some Authority and Power so full and so high, as to restrain and keep things in better order, and that may be a check to these exorbitancies, it will be impossible in humane reason to prevent our ruine.

Whitelock.

I confess the danger we are in by these extravagancies and inordinate powers, is more than I doubt is generally apprehended; yet as to that part of it which concerns the Soldiery your Excellencies power and Commission is sufficient already to restrain and keep them in their due obedience, and blessed be God you have done it hitherto, and I doubt not but by your wisedome you will be able still to do it.

As to the Members of Parliament I confess the greatest difficulty lies there, your Commission being from them, and they being acknowledged the Supream Power of the Nation, subject to no controls, nor allow∣ing any appeal from them.

Yet I am sure your Excellency will not look upon them as generally depraved, too many of them are much to blame in those things you have mentioned, and many unfit things have passed among them; but I hope well of the Major part of them, when great matters come to a decision.

Cromwell.

My Lord, there is little hopes of a good settlement to be made by them, really there is not; but a great deal of fear, that they will destroy again, what the Lord hath done gratiously for them and us; we all forget God, and God will forget us, and give us up to confusion; and these men will help it on, if they be suffered to proceed in their wayes; some course must be thought on to curb and restrain them, or we shall be ruined by them.

Whitelock.

We our selves have acknowledged them the Supream power, and taken our Commissions and Authority in the highest concernments from them, and how to restrain and curb them after this, it will be hard to find out a way for it.

Cromwell.

What if a man should take upon him to be King?

Whitelock.

I think that remedy would be worse than the disease.

Cromwell.

Why do you think so?

Whitelock.

As to your own person the Title of King would be of no advantage, because you have the full Kingly power in you already, concerning the Militia, as you are General.

As to the nomination of Civil Officers, those whom you think fittest are seldom refused: and although you have no negative Vote in the passing of Laws, yet what you dislike will not easily be carried; and the Taxes are already setled, and in your Power to dispose the money raised. And as to Forrain Affairs though the Cere∣monial Application be made to the Parliament, yet the expectation of good or bad Success in it is from your Excellency; and particular Sollicitations of Forreign Ministers are made to you only;

So that I apprehend indeed less Envy and Danger, and Pomp, but not less power, and real opportunities of doing good in your being General, than would be if you had Assumed the Title of King.

Cromwell.

I have heard some of your Profession ob∣serve, that he who is actually King (whether by Ele∣ction, or by descent, yet being once King all Asts done by him as King are lawful and justifiable, as by any King who hath the Crown by Inheritance from his Fore-Fathers: and that by an Act of Parliament in H. 7.

time, It is safer for those who act under a King (be his Title what it will) than for those who act under any other power.

And surely the power of a King is so great and high, and so universally understood and reverenced by the People of this Nation, that the Title of it might not only Indemnifie in a great Measure those that Act un∣der it, But likewise be of great use and advantage in such times as these, to curb the Insolencies of those whom the present powers cannot Controul, or at least are the persons themselves who are thus insolent.

Whitelock,

I agree in the general what you are pleased to observe as to this Title of King, but whether for your Excellency to take this Title upon you, as things now are, will be for the good and advantage either of your self and Friends, or of the Common-wealth I do very much doubt, notwithstanding that Act of Par∣liament 11 H. 7. which will be little regarded, or ob∣served to us by our Enemies, if they should come to get the upper hand of us.

Cromwel,

What do you apprehend would be the danger of taking this Title?

Whitelock.

The danger I think would be this, one of the main points of Controversie betwixt us and our Adversaries, is whether the Government of this Na∣tion shall be established in Monarchy, or in a Free State or Common-wealth, and most of our Friends have en∣gaged with us upon the hopes of having the Government setled in a Free-State, and to effect that have under∣gone all their hazards and difficulties.

They being persuaded (though I think much mista∣ken,) that under the Government of a Common-wealth, they shall enjoy more Liberty and Right, both as to their Spiritual and Civil concernments, than they shall under Monarchy; the pressures and dislike whereof are so fresh in their Memories and Sufferings.

Now if your Excellency shall take upon you the Title of King, this State of your Cause will be thereby wholly determined, and Monarchy established in your Per∣son; and the question will be no more whether our Go∣vernment shall be by a Monarch, or by a Free-State, but whether Cromwell or Stuart shall be our King and Monarch.

And that question, wherein before so great parties of the Nation were ingaged, and which was Ʋniver∣sal; will by this means become in Effect a private Con∣troversie only; before it was National, What kind of Government we should have, now it will become par∣ticular, Who shall be our Governour, whether of the Family of the Stuarts, or of the Family of the Crom∣wells.

Thus the State of our Controversie being totally changed, all those who were for a Common-wealth (and they are a very great and considerable Party) having their hopes therein frustrate will desert you, your hands will be weakned, your Interest streightned, and your Cause in apparent danger to be ruined.

Cromwell.

I confess you speak reason in this, but what other thing can you propound that may obviate the present dangers and difficulties wherein we are all In∣gaged.

Whitelock.

It will be the greatest difficulty to find out such an Expedient, I have had many things in my private thoughts upon this Business, some of which perhaps are not fit, or safe for me to Communi∣cate.

Cromwel.

I pray (my Lord) what are they? you may trust me with them, there shall no prejudice come to you by any private discourse betwixt us, I shall never betray my Friend, you may be as free with me as with your own Heart, and shall never suffer by it.

Whitelock.

I make no scruple to put my Life and Fortune in your Excellencies hand, and so I shall if I impart these Fancies to you; which are weak and per∣haps may prove offensive to your Excellency; therefore my best way will be to smother them.

Cromwell.

Nay I prethee, my Lord Whitelock, let me know them, be they what they will, they cannot be offensive to me, but I shall take it kindly from you; Therefore I pray do not conceal those thoughts of yours from your faithful Friend.

Whitelock.

Your Excellency honours me with a Title far above me, and since you are pleased to com∣mand it, I shall discover to you my thoughts herein, and humbly desire you not to take in ill part what I shal say to you.

Cromwell.

Indeed I shall not, but I shall take it (as I said) very kindly from you.

Whitelock.

Give me leave then first to consider your Excellencies condition. You are environed with secret Enemies: upon your subduing of the publ••ck Enemy▪ the Officers of your Army account themselves all Victors, and to have had an equal share in the Con∣quest with you.

The Success which God hath given us hath not a lit∣tle elated their minds, and many of them are busie and of Turbulent Spirits, and are not without their designs how they may dismount your Excellency, and some of themselves get up into the Saddle, how they may bring you down, and set up themselves.

They want not Counsel and Incouragement herein, it may be from some Members of the Parliament, who may be jealous of your power and greatness, lest you should grow too high for them, and in time over-master them; and they will Plot to bring you down first, or to Clip your Wings.

Cromwell.

I thank you that you so fully consider my Condition, it is a Testimony of your love to me, and care of me; and you have rightly considered it, and I may say without vanity, that in my condition yours is involved and all our Friends, and those that Plot my ruine will hardly bear your continuance in any Condition worthy of you.

Besides this, the Cause it self may possibly receive some disadvantage by the struglings and contentions among our Selves. But what Sir are your thoughts for prevention of those Mischiefs that hang over our Heads.

Whitelock.

Pardon me Sir in the next place a lit∣tle to consider the Condition of the King of Scots.

This Prince being now by your Valour, and the Success which God hath given to the Parliament, and to the Army under your Command, reduced to a very low Condition; both he, and all about him cannot but be ve∣ry inclinable to harken to any Terms, whereby their lost hopes may be revived of his being restored to the Crown, and they to their Fortunes and Native Coun∣trey.

By a private Treaty with him you may secure your self, and your Friends, and their Fortunes, you may make your self and your Posterity as great and perma∣nent to all humane probability, as ever any Subject was, and provide for your Friends. You may put such Li∣mits to Monarchical Power, as will secure our Spiritu∣al and Civil Liberties; and you may secure the Cause in which we are all ingaged, and this may be effectually done, by having the power of the Militia continued in your self, and whom you shall agree upon after you.

I propound therefore for your Excellency to send to the King of Scots, and to have a private Treaty with him for this purpose; and I beseech you to pardon what I have said upon the occasion, It is out of my Affecti∣on and Service to your Excellency, and to all honest Men; and I humbly pray you not to have any Jealousie

thereupon of my approved Faithfulness to your Excel∣lency and to this Common-wealth.

Cromwell.

I have not, I assure you, the least di∣strust of your Faithfulness and Friendship to me, and to the Cause of this Common-wealth; and I think you have much reason for what you propound; but it is a Matter of so high importance and difficulty, that it de∣serves more time of Consideration and debate, than is at present allowed us.

We shall therefore take a further time to discotuse of it.

With this the General brake off, and went to other Company, and so into Whitehall, seeming by his Countenance and Carriage displeased with what hath been said; yet he never objected it a∣gainst Whitelock in any publick meeting after∣wards.

Only his Carriage towards him from that time was altered, and his advising with him not so fre∣quent and intimate as before; and it was not long after that he found an Occasion by an honourable Imployment to send him out of the way (as some of his nearest Relations particularly his Daughter Cleypoole confessed) that he might be no obstacle or impedimemt to his ambitious designs; as may appear by the process of this story.

December, 1652.

About the beginning of this Month, General Blake himself was Ingaged with the whole Fleet * 2.119 of the Dutch, but having great disadvantage in the numbers, and the wind not favouring him, tho his Squadron Fought very gallantly, and did much harm to the Dutch, yet he came off with the loss of the Garland and Bonaventure, two good Ships, and some other of less Force.

Many Letters and Intelligences came of further Successes in Scotland by the Forces under General * 2.120 Monk in the Highlands. Others, of several Prizes taken by the Parliaments Ships from the Dutch, and of losses of some English Ships taken by the Dutch, and Transporting some Irish to the Ser∣vice of the King of Spain.

The Parliament were very busie in debate of several Acts of Parliament under Consideration, but very little was brought to effect by them..

The Soldiers grumbled at their delayes, and there began to be ill blood between them. The * 2.121 General and his Officers pressed the putting a Pe∣riod to their Sitting, which they promised to do, but were slow in that business.

January, 1652.

The Preparations for the Navy, and the War at Sea with the Dutch, went on with great Vigor; * 2.122 and the Parliament were quick in it, and referred it to the Councel of State to take care of it.

And they were diligent in their Business, and cautious to have money in readiness for it, and to settle Amities with Forreign Princes, and such Correspondences that there might be the less As∣sistance to their Enemies, or joyning with them.

Intelligences came of the continuance of their Success in Scotland, and of the peacable condition * 2.123 of their Affairs in Ireland.

The Kings of France and of Spain, and the Queen of Sweden, sent hither their Ambassadors * 2.124 and publick Ministers to treat for the Settling of Leagues, and Trade.

Upon a Report from them, the Parliament passed several resolutions for the Encouragement * 2.125 of Seamen in their Service. As for advancement * 2.126 of some to Pay to them before-hand, and to leave some subsistance to their Families during their Ab∣sence.

That for every Ship taken, which should be ad∣judged good Prize, they should have 40 s. per Tun and 6 l. for every piece of Cannon taken or found in the Prize Ships, to be equally distributed ac∣cording to their Qualities, and that they should have 10 l. for every Cannon which should be taken abord of any Ship which they should sink or Fire.

That whoever should inroll themselves within 40 dayes in the Parliaments Service, should, as a gratuity, receive a Moneths pay not to be passed to account, That Hospitals should be erected at Dover, Deal and Sandwich, for Sick and wounded Sea men brought on Shoar, and a stock settled for Maintenance of them and of other Sick and wounded Men, who by reason of their Diseases and Wounds could not be brought on Shoar.

These, and other Encouragements caused the Seamen to come Flocking into the Service of the Parliament: and although the Hollanders had pro∣hibited * 2.127 the Importing, of Pitch Tar, Hemp, and o∣ther Materials of Navigation by any Nation what∣soever into England, a Placard of sufficient Inso∣lency; yet the Councel of State had provided suffi∣cient stores, and had prepared and equipped a Gallant Navy.

In the Levant Captain Bodely coming from Port-Longone to the relief of Captain Appleton, who was blockt up in the Mole of Legorn, the Dutch there set upon Bodely, and destroyed two or three of his Ships.

February, 1652.

The Parliaments Fleet at Sea had great Success * 2.128 this Moneth in a Fight with the Dutch, between Portland and the Isle of Wight about the Twenti∣eth of this Moneth; In which Battle both the Of∣ficers, Mariners and Soldiers of both parties be∣haved themselves with great Courage and Gallan∣try.

But it pleased God so to favour the English, That after a sharp and bloody Fight the Dutch were wholly routed and overcome; and had a sore and terrible loss both of their Ships and Men; the English lost likewise many Men, but came off with a very great Victory.

Several Letters also came of the Successes of the Army in Scotland, and the submission of more of the Irish Rebels. All these passages conduced to the raising up not only of the Reputation, but with it of the Spirits and Ambition of Cromwell, and the Officers of the Army.

And they now began to assume to themselves all the Honour of the past Actions, and of the Con∣quests * 2.129 by them atchieved; scarce owning the Par∣liament and their assistance, and Provision for them; but taxing and censuring the Members of Parliament for Injustice, and delay of Business, and for seeking to prolong their Power, and promote their private Interest, and to satisfie their own Ambition.

With these and many others the like Censures they endeavoured to Calumniate the Parliament, & Judge them guilty of those Crimes whereof them∣selves were faulty; not looking into their own Actions, nor perceiving their own defaults; yet censuring the Actions and proceedings of the Par∣liament very opprobriously.

March 1652.

The drift of Cromwell and his Officers was to put an end to this Parliament, which many won∣dred at, and sought to disswade him from, upon all opportunities, as far as was thought conveni∣ent, and that they might not appear desirous to continue their own power, and sitting in Parlia∣ment; whereof they had Cause to be sufficiently weary.

Neither could it clearly be foreseen, that their design was, to rout the present Power, and so set up themselves; against the which they were advised, as pulling down the Foundation of their own Interest and Power, and the way to weaken themselves, and hazard both their cause and Persons.

Yet still they seemed zealous upon their com∣mon Pretences of Right and Justice, and publick Li∣berty, to put a period to this Parliament, and that if the Parliament would not shortly do it them∣selves, that then the Soldiers must do it.

Some who earnestly declared their Judgment against this, as the most dangerous, and most ungrate∣ful thing that could be practised, by this freedom, gained no favour with Cromwell and his Officers.

But there wanted not some Parliament Men, perhaps to flatter with them, who soothed them in this unhandsome design, and were complotting with them, to ruine themselves; as by the conse∣quence will appear.

Letters of Dutch Free-booters, and French Picke∣roons infesting the Coast, and that in Brittain they were building new Ships of War to infest the English.

That Prince Rupert with 3 Ships only was come into Nantes, that he could give no account of his * 2.130 Brother, and his Ships which were seperated from him by a Hurricane in the Indies; and he believed they were cast away.

From Legorn, that the Duke by the instigation of the Dutch, demanded restitution of the Phaenix recovered by a bold adventure of the English; and the Duke sent to Captain Bodiley, that he having refused to restore the Phaenix to the Dutch, it was * 2.131 his Highnesses pleasure that all the English Ships should depart the Port within 10 dayes, and Bodi∣ley prepared to depart accordingly.

That the Dutch Admiral sent a Protest on shoar by 4 of his Captains, that if his Highness would not restore the Phaenix, they would fall upon the English Ships in the Mole, and they warned other Ships to withdraw.

Thereupon the Dutch were commanded to re∣tire out of Shot of the Castles, and their Consul on Shoar was sequestred, a guard put upon his House, and all the Dutch clapt into hold.

[22.] An Act passed, for continuing the im∣position upon Coals, towards the building and maintaining of Ships.

Another passed for Continuance of the Cu∣stoms.

Instructions debated in the House for the Lord Viscount Lisle to go Ambassador extraordinary * 2.132 from the Parliament of the Common-wealth of England to the Queen of Sweden.

The Speaker acquainted the House, that he re∣ceived Letters from the States of Holland and West Friezland; the House referred to some of * 2.133 their Members to examine the Messenger, and ap∣pointed a day for debate of the Letters.

The Fairfax Frigot, of 50 Guns, was in Cha∣tham * 2.134 burned by accident of a Candle, or snuff of Tobacco.

A Proclamation was published in St. Maloes, that no eatable Provisions, nor Pitch, Tarr, or Cordage should be exported, on forfeiture of the Vessels and Goods.

From Edenburgh that some Clans in the High-lands * 2.135 had meetings, and rendezvous, and that they have meetings in the Low-lands, and that the ge∣neral Assembly and the Remonstrators, or dissenting Brethren, meet in several places, and carry on a different Interest.

That Commissary Grey, and others of the High-land Party, were taken by the Parliaments Ar∣my.

From the Hague, the Victory is now confest to * 2.136 be of the English side in the late Ingagement at Sea; they having seen the names of their Ships that are lost, and finding their Hospitals crowded with Sea-men, and the number of them aboard Lessen∣ed.

That they wonder at the sudden and great prepa∣rations of the English Fleets, and are discontented that their trade is gone; that in a late mutiny a∣bout pressing of Seamen there, 30 were killed.

That the States told the People, that some were coming from England to offer terms of Peace.

That the States had sent a Letter to the Parlia∣ment, lamenting the bloodshed of Protestants by this unhappy difference, and how much better it would be to have an Ʋnion and Amity.

Upon the Debate of the Letter from the States, the Parliament referred it to the Councel of State to prepare an answer to it.

From Edenburgh, that the dissenting brethren * 2.137 have ordered some particulars concerning Kirk Af∣fairs, as for the more orderly and frequent Admini∣stration of the Sacrament, and excluding of prophane Persons from it.

From Jersey, that in a Fight at Sea between an Ostender and a Barque of Jersey, she was taken by the Ostender, and they were met with by a Parliament Frigot who brought them both into England.

From Weymouth, That since the last Northerly Winds, the Fisher-men fish nothing but Ship-wrack and dead men, and that the French are un∣willing to believe that the English did beat the Dutch in the late Ingagement.

That the French Rovers, and the Dutch do much harm upon the English Coast.

Letters from the Officers and Soldiers at Eden∣burgh, * 2.138 in answer to some Letters from the Army in England, wherein they all agree to join for the re∣formation of things amiss, and that Justice and liber∣ty may have a free passage.

This was but in effect a proceeding in their con∣trivances to pull down the Parliament, and to set up themselves.

A Letter passed in the House in answer to the Letter from the States, and setting forth, the Parlia∣ments * 2.139 readiness, as formerly to have prevented these Wars, and to prosecute a fit way, to close up the same, and to settle amity, peace, and a mutual confidence be∣tween the 2 Nations.

Of discontents among the Dutch, missing many thousands of their Friends since the late Ingage∣ment, but the Lords tell them, that the men are safe in the Ports of France; that they threaten to block up the Thames.

That they cry up the King of Scots Interest, and that he hath offered to serve them at Sea in Person, but that Holland will yet give no ear to it.

That they murmur at a new Tax and some re∣fuse to pay it, of 2 Dutch Ships taken Prize.

Of 3 Declarations of the Scots Presbytery, pub∣lish'd. 1. Against the Malignant Assembly for es∣pousing * 2.140 the Kings Interest. 2. Against the English for breach of Covenant and Toleration of Sects. 3. A∣gainst the new Scots Dippers.

Particulars of the Fight in the Streights be∣tween the Dutch and Captain Bodeley. That the Bonadventure one of his Ships was blown up, and all * 2.141 her men lost but seven; That the Sampson an other of his Ships was laid on board on one side; by a Dutch man of War, and fired on the other side by one of their Fireships, but most of her men hoped to be saved by getting aboard the Mary, that other of their Ships 3 in number were taken by the Dutch.

That 6 great men of War were sent from the Texel, to lye in the mouth of the Elbe, to search and examine all Ships bound for England.

Notes

• * 1.1

  Ireland.
• * 1.2

  Lieute∣nant-Ge∣neral Lud∣low.
• * 1.3

  Ireland.
• * 1.4

  Cracovian Cate∣chisme.
• * 1.5

  Kirk.
• * 1.6

  Ireland.
• * 1.7

  Union.
• * 1.8

  Dutch Am∣bassadors.
• * 1.9

  Union.
• * 1.10

  Scotland.
• * 1.11

  Merchants
• * 1.12

  Ireland.
• * 1.13

  Vote.
• * 1.14

  Hamilton.
• * 1.15

  Sir George Ascue. Barbadon.
• * 1.16

  Scotland.
• * 1.17

  France.
• * 1.18

  L. Wil∣loughby.
• * 1.19

  Sweden.
• * 1.20

  Conde.
• * 1.21

  Argyle.
• * 1.22

  May.
• * 1.23

  Union.
• * 1.24

  Represen∣tative.
• * 1.25

  Captain How.
• * 1.26

  Judges in Scotland.
• * 1.27

  Ireland.
• * 1.28

  Fleet.
• * 1.29

  Dutch Flag.
• * 1.30

  Ireland.
• * 1.31

  Van Trump.
• * 1.32

  Dutch Am∣bassadors.
• * 1.33

  Fight in the Downs.
• * 1.34

  Ireland.
• * 1.35

  June.
• * 1.36

  Throckmor∣ton.
• * 1.37

  Judges Scotland.
• * 1.38

  Scotland.
• * 1.39

  Dunotter Castle.
• * 1.40

  Blake.
• * 1.41

  Dutch Pa∣per.
• * 2.1

  Answer.
• * 2.2

  Scotland
• * 2.3

  Dutch Am∣bassador.
• * 2.4

  Fight at Sea.
• * 2.5

  Blake.
• * 2.6

  Ireland.
• * 2.7

  Vote.
• * 2.8

  Cromwel.
• * 2.9

  Lambert distated.
• * 2.10

  Whitelocke.
• * 2.11

  Ireland.
• * 2.12

  Scotland.
• * 2.13

  Kirk Pre∣rogative.
• * 2.14

  Sir George Ascue.
• * 2.15

  Register.
• * 2.16

  Kirk Tu∣mult.
• * 2.17

  Storm.
• * 2.18

  Petition.
• * 2.19

  Votes in Answer to Dutch Pa∣per.
• * 2.20

  Dutch Am∣bassadors.
• * 2.21

  Hewson.
• * 2.22

  Ireland.
• * 2.23

  Blake.
• * 2.24

  Ascue.
• * 2.25

  July.
• * 2.26

  Ireland.
• * 2.27

  Ascues Sea Fight.
• * 2.28

  Highlands.
• * 2.29

  Blake.
• * 2.30

  Dr. Win∣ston.
• * 2.31

  Fleetwood.
• * 2.32

  Ascue.
• * 2.33

  Ireland.
• * 2.34

  Scots.
• * 2.35

  Dutch Fleet.
• * 2.36

  Ascue.
• * 2.37

  Highlands.
• * 2.38

  Blake.
• * 2.39

  Kirke.
• * 2.40

  Highlands.
• * 2.41

  Dutch-Fleet.
• * 2.42

  Q. Sweeden
• * 2.43

  Scots Pres∣byterian.
• * 2.44

  Blake.
• * 2.45

  Ascue.
• * 2.46

  Kirke.
• * 2.47

  Blake.
• * 2.48

  Ireland.
• * 2.49

  Blake.
• * 2.50

  Ireland.
• * 2.51

  Highlands.
• * 2.52

  Van Trump.
• * 2.53

  Ascue.
• * 2.54

  St. Pauls.
• * 2.55

  Van Trump.
• * 2.56

  August.
• * 2.57

  Army Pe∣tition.
• * 2.58

  Answer.
• * 2.59

  Cromwel.
• * 2.60

  Blake.
• * 2.61

  Kirk.
• * 2.62

  Ascue.
• * 2.63

  Fight.
• * 2.64

  Commit∣tee for Ireland.
• * 2.65

  Ascue.
• * 2.66

  Blake.
• * 2.67

  Scotland.
• * 2.68

  Blake.
• * 2.69

  Pen.
• * 2.70

  Compalint
• * 2.71

  Virginia.
• * 2.72

  Highlands.
• * 2.73

  Dutch Fleet.
• * 2.74

  De Wit.
• * 2.75

  Denmark.
• * 2.76

  Septem.
• * 2.77

  Ireland.
• * 2.78

  Blake.
• * 2.79

  Wales.
• * 2.80

  Ireland.
• * 2.81

  ••udges ••rcuits in Scotland.
• * 2.82

  Highlands.
• * 2.83

  Dutch.
• * 2.84

  Bill Parl.
• * 2.85

  Blake.
• * 2.86

  Dutch Mu∣tiny.
• * 2.87

  Scotland.
• * 2.88

  English Judges.
• * 2.89

  Blake.
• * 2.90

  D. Tuscany.
• * 2.91

  Portugal Ambassa∣dor.
• * 2.92

  October.
• * 2.93

  Dutch Fleet.
• * 2.94

  Witches.
• * 2.95

  Sea fight.
• * 2.96

  Ireland.
• * 2.97

  Storm.
• * 2.98

  Union.
• * 2.99

  Blake.
• * 2.100

  Denmark.
• * 2.101

  De Witt.
• * 2.102

  Denmark.
• * 2.103

  Dutch.
• * 2.104

  Denmark.
• * 2.105

  Union.
• * 2.106

  Ireland.
• * 2.107

  Alderman Fowk.
• * 2.108

  Kirke.
• * 2.109

  Witches.
• * 2.110

  Scotland.
• * 2.111

  Dutch.
• * 2.112

  Petition.
• * 2.113

  Union.
• * 2.114

  Novem.
• * 2.115

  Dutch. Fleet.
• * 2.116

  Union.
• * 2.117

  Cromwell.
• * 2.118

  Whitelock.
• * 2.119

  Blake.
• * 2.120

  Monk.
• * 2.121

  Parlia∣ment.
• * 2.122

  Navy.
• * 2.123

  Scotland.
• * 2.124

  Forreign Ministers.
• * 2.125

  Seamenin∣couraged.
• * 2.126

  Februa.
• * 2.127

  Placard.
• * 2.128

  Sea Fight.
• * 2.129

  Cromwell. and Army against Parlia∣ment.
• * 2.130

  Prince Ru∣pert.
• * 2.131

  Captain Bodiley.
• * 2.132

  Lord Lisle.
• * 2.133

  Holland.
• * 2.134

  March.
• * 2.135

  Scots.
• * 2.136

  Dutch.
• * 2.137

  Scotland.
• * 2.138

  Army.
• * 2.139

  Holland.
• * 2.140

  Anno 1653. Scots De∣claration.
• * 2.141

  Sea Fight.