[Anno 1644] [Car. 20]

April 1644. The Parliament ordered a day of publick thanksgiving for the good success which it pleased God to give to their Forces hear Winchester.

Ships were ordered to lie to hinder the landing of the Irish.

Captain Swanley secured Milford Haven, Haver∣ford West, and all Pembrokeshire for the Parlia∣ment.

The Irish Rebels enter'd into a Catholick Cove∣nant, * and sent their Agents to the King to have a free Catholick Parliament, and they had counte∣nance at Oxford.

The Commons took course for making of Gun∣powder.

The Scots, and New-Castle's Army often faced each other, and had some small Rencounters.

A Party of Sir John Gell's men near Derby fell upon a quarter of the Enemy, killed twenty two, routed the rest, drove divers Men and Horse into the River Dove, where they were drowned, took 140 Horse, and 80 Prisoners.

Colonel Bellasis attempted the Quarters of Colo∣nel Lambert, who beat back Colonel Bellasis, and pursued him six miles, took 150 Horse, 60 Foot, Colonel Bagshaw, and 80 Captains, and Offi∣cers.

Sir Edward Hartop, and Major Bingley, were questioned for letting the Enemy pass to the Re∣lief of Newark, when they had a considerable force to oppose him; and it was referred to a Council of War.

It was agreed to send 66000 l. to the Brittish Forces in Ulster.

The Prince Elector wrote to the Parliament of * the great want he and his Mother were in, for want of the stipend they formerly had, bemoans the courses which his brother took in fighting against the Parlia∣ment and rejoyceth to hear of the Covenant.

The King's Forces at Reading levelled the works, and marched to Marlborough.

An Ordinance passed for observation of the Lord's day.

The Isle of Wight sent store of provisions, and 300 men to Waller.

Upon advice from the Committee of both King∣doms the Parliament resolv'd to draw together all their Forces at a general Rendezvous, and to put the Enemy to it, by a day, and took order for Vi∣ctuals, and Necessaries for their Armies, and that this their resolution should be published on the day of Thanksgiving.

Newcastle imposed an Oath of Adherence upon the inhabitants of York, to oppose the Scots, but many resused to take it.

The Lord Fairfax his Regiment took 160 Horse, and 80 Foot at Axholm.

The Commons and Lords answered the Dutch * Ambassadour, That when they should make it appear, that they hadCommission to address themselves to the Parliament, they should receive a fit Answer.

At a Common Council the Earl of Warwick, Sir Henry Vane Junior, and the Earl of Pembroke, spake to the Citizens, acquainted them with the Resolu∣tion of the Parliament, to put the business of the war to a speedy issue, and to a day, and to desire their assistance. Sir William Waller spake to them to the Page  82 same effect: Mr. Hollis, and Mr. Glyn to the same purpose, and the Citizens were very forward in the business.

A Party of Sir William Waller's Forces took Christ Church, and Sir John Willis the Governour, with divers Commissioners of Array, 120 Horse, 200 Foot, and about 400 Arms.

The London Brigade with Colonel Whitehead took in by composition Walton House belonging to the Bishop of Winchester.

Colonel Langhern, and Captain Swanley, with the help of a squadron of ships sent to them, took in the fort of Prickspil, divers Officers, 18 great Ordnance, 6 Carriages, 300 Souldiers, with their Arms, and two Bristol ships with Arms and Powder.

This so terrified Haverford West, that their Centuries the next night seeing a herd of Cattel, cried out that the Round-heads Black-coats were come, and Sir Henry Vaughan, and his company hasted away, leaving behind them Powder, ten pieces of Ordnance, and store of Provisions.

Then they took Tinby a strong Fort with the Governour, 300 Souldiers, and Arms, 8 pieces of Cannon, and store of plunder, and secured all Pem∣brokeshire, and most part of South Wales for the Parliament.

Prince Griffith (so called) made a proposition for 15000 l. to reduce all NorthWales to the Parliament.

Col. King took in Crowland for the Parliament, 80 Horse and Arms.

The Lords agreed to refer the drawing up of propositions for Peace to the Committee of both Kingdoms, to doe it by a day.

An Oxford Spie was executed.

The Lord Conwey, and the Earl of Kingston came into the Parliament.

The King again sets up his Standard at Marlbo∣rough, * but seeing few come in to it, he declared at the Standard that the two Houses were preparing Pro∣positions for Peace, and he would reward those that came in to him, as there should be further occasion to use them: and so the Standard was taken down.

The King's Forces surprized Wareham, as was suspected by the treachery of the Captain of the Watch, who let them in, for which they, being Masters of the place, killed the Captain, and many others, and committed divers rapes and cruelties.

The Archbishop coming again to trial the Arti∣cle * was urged against him, and several witnesses produced, That he assumed the title of the Pope, that in Letters from the Ʋniversity of Oxford, he was styled Optimus, Maximus, & Sanctitas Vestra, Your Sa∣cred Holiness, Aeternum Reverendissime Cancella∣rie, & Maximus Pontifex.

It was referred to the Committee of both King∣doms to send Agents to the Swedes, and to Zea∣land, to declare the Parliaments affection to them, who had expressed their good liking of the procee∣dings of the Parliament.

The Lord Fairfax, and Sir Thomas Fairfax his * Son joyning together, drew up their Forces to Selby, where a Garrison of the King's was, and in * it Colonel Bellasis the Governour of York, that night they beat in a party of the Enemies Horse, and took divers Prisoners.

Early the next morning they beset the Town in three Divisions, and after a hot fight, wherein both parties performed brave service; Fairfax routed them, and entred the Town, where they took 4 Colonels, 4 Majors, 20 Captains, 130 in∣feriour Officers, 1600 common Souldiers, 4 brass Pieces of Ordnance, Powder, Match, 2000 Arms, 500 Horse, besides Colours, and a Pinnace, and Ships in the River, and 500 more Prisoners at Hemcough near Selby.

For this the Parliament ordered a day of publick Thanksgiving.

The Candlesticks, Crucifixes, and Plate in Pauls Church was ordered to be sold, and a motion debated for borrowing 100000 l. of the States of the Netherlands.

The Lord Mayor, and Aldermen of London pro∣posed, * that they would raise 20000 men, and how they might be paid; but the Commons doubting it might retard their present designs, it was for that time laid aside.

A party of Sir William Waller's Horse beat up the Enemies Quarters at Sunning near Reading, took 2 Lieutenant Colonels, 3 Captains, divers other Officers, 21 Souldiers with Arms, and 40 Horse.

A Proclamation was published from Oxford, * commanding the Inhabitants of Oxfordshire, Bucks, and Berks, &c. to bring in all their provision for Men and Horse to Oxford within 5 days, that they may not assist the Enemies now marching, on pain of fire and sword. The Commons appointed a Declaration to be drawn, and published there∣upon.

These three Counties, Oxon, Bucks, and Berks, * entred into an association, and a Committee was appointed of Members of the Mouse, and other Gentlemen of those Counties then in London, to manage the affairs of those Counties, to compound with Delinquents, and to raise supplies for the Forces there.

The Earl of Newcastle, troubled at the news of Selby, and his Army wasting upon the approach of the Scots towards them, they left Durham to the Scots, and General Lesley pursued them.

The Commons did right to Mr. Cambell, upon a complaint of Horses taken from him, and to the inhabitants of Surrey, for satisfaction of their charges for supply of Sir William Waller.

A thousand Countrey men came in to Colonel Massey, who represented the condition of his Gar∣rison to the Parliament, who ordered supplies for him, and the Earl of Manchester was ordered with 4000 Horse, and 5000 Foot to attend the motion of Prince Rupert.

The Lord Fairfax his Forces joyned with the Scots, and care was taken to supply the Earl of Manchester.

Sir William Waller sent out a party which fell upon a Convoy of the Enemies for supply of Basing House, and took of them divers Officers, 40 Soul∣diers, 1000 Sheep, and fat cattle and money.

Sir John Gell routed 2 Troups of Colonel Go∣ring's Regiment of Horse, and dispersed the rest.

The Earl of Warwick took 8 ships bound for Bristol.

York was close besieged by the Scots, and the Lord Fairfax his Forces.

The Dutch Embassadour and the Parliament courted each other, but nothing came to effect be∣tween them.

The King's Forces (whereof many were Irish) burnt Bemister, Cerne, and Shaftsbury in Dorsetshire.

The Commons ordered that no private business should be heard in the House, before the Armies were upon their march.

The Propositions for Peace were brought into the House, and Read, and Debated, and the De∣bate adjourned.

The Marquess Huntley in Scotland made some commotion on behalf of the King, but the Earl of Argile quieted him.

The Anti-Parliament at Oxford had written Let∣ters * to the Estates of Scotland, dehorting them from giving any assistance to those at Westminster, who were in arms against the King, and these Let∣ters Page  83 set forth the unlawfulness and injustice of such undertakings, and actions.

The Estates of Scotland sent up this Letter to the Parliament with a Copy of their answer to it, which was to this effect, That their expedition into * England was not intended till all other means were first assayed and disappointed, they deny not the Parliaments invitation of them, and they declare that their pitty to see England bleed, and their sense of the danger of their own Religion and Laws, were the chief cause of their taking up Armes. That they held not the invita∣tion of the Parliament any ways invalid, because they at Oxford are wanting, or others are gone beyond the Seas, having either wilfully deserted the Parliament, or been expelled for Delinquency, or why those that stay in Parliament are not a sufficient number without those at Oxford, they do not apprehend, with much of the like matter, which was well accepted by the Par∣liament.

May, 1644. An Ordinance for the supply of the Earl of Manchester's forces stuck with the Lords.

An Ordinance was published to prevent the ad∣journment of the Term, or any the Courts of Justice from Westminster, and all Judges and Officers were commanded to attend their places here.

Some 30 firelocks of the Garrison of Northamp∣ton being surprized by the Enemy, and carried Prisoners to Banbury, the Northampton forces mar∣ched forth, entered Banbury, fetched off all their Prisoners, and took about 30 of them. Sir Thomas Fairfax, and Major General Lesley closely pursued the Earl of Newcastle's horse Southward.

The Archbishop of Canterbury came again to his tryal, the evidence against him was mannaged by * Mr. Nicholas.

Captain Swanley took in the town of Caernarvon with 400 Prisoners, Arms, Ammunition and much Pillage.

Plymouth sallyed out upon the besiegers, took 40 Prisoners, Horse, Arms, Ammunition.

The Speaker, and some Members of the House were sent to the Dutch Ambassadours to comple∣ment and take leave of them.

The Commons sent to acquaint the City, that * they were preparing Propositions for Peace, and desired to know from them what concerned their particular, for which the City returned their hum∣ble thanks.

Particular Letters were ordered to be written from the Houses to the Scots General, and to the Lord Fairfax and his son, in acknowledgment of their good services.

The Lord General wrote to the Houses to ap∣point a Committee to reside with the Army, and to supply the Army.

Mr. Rolles, a Member of the House, had satis∣faction voted to be given him for his losses in op∣posing the King's taking of Tunnage and Poun∣dage, when it was not granted by Parliament.

At the taking of Caermarthen by Captain Swanly many Irish Rebels were thrown into the Sea.

The Earl of Manchester took the City of Lincoln * by storm, and in it Sir Francis Fane the Governor, three Colonels, many inferiour Officers, 800 Common Souldiers, 1000 Armes, 8 pieces of Ord∣nance, all their Armes, Ammunition, and pillage given to the Souldiers, and 80 of them were slain.

A new Ordinance passed for abolishing all Popish Reliques fixed to Tombes, or other places, and all Organs, Images, &c.

The Earl of Holland desired licence to accompa∣ny the Lord General in the present expedition, which the Lords granted, but the Commons deny∣ed, which (upon my knowledge) distasted the Ge∣neral: Sir Philip Stapleton and Hollis were two of the most secret Counsellors and Friends the Gene∣ral had, they often advised with him about his affairs, for his good, and the advantage of the Parliament, but he was not well fixed.

Newcastle's horse coming to relieve Lincolne, were beaten back by Manchester's.

The siege of York was continued, and the Scots and the Lord Fairfax's forces drawn very near to the wals.

The Lord Say, Mr. of the Wards, and the Offi∣cers of that Court sate, Mr. Charles Fleetwood was made Receiver General, and Mr. Miles Corbet Clerk of the Wards.

Captain Fox with one Troop of Horse, went to Bewdely the enemies Garrison, and in the night under pretence of being one of the Princes Troops, passed the Guards to the main Guard, where he killed the Sentinels, seized the Guard, and took Sir Thomas Littleton, and divers persons of Quali∣ty prisoners.

The Londoners presented a Petition to the Lords, * desiring their free and mutual concurrence with the Commons in the great affairs now in agitation, which was not well taken by the Lords.

A party of the King's horse came to Henly, re∣quiring the inhabitants to carry in all their Pro∣visions for men and horse to Oxford, else the Town should be burnt, and faln upon by the Souldiers, but Captain Buller being quartered not far from thence, and hearing of it, came unexpectedly and fell upon the enemy, and rescued the Town.

Colonel Massey with his own forces, and some * of the Regiments of the Lord Stamford, Colonel Devereux, and Colonel Purefoy, took Westbury by assault, divers Officers, and 60 Souldiers, the same night he marched to little Deane, and meet∣ing with a party of the Enemy under Captain Con∣grave, and Wigmore, he slew them, and 7 or 8 more, and took divers prisoners.

Then he stormed Newnam, a strong fort, who shot at his Trumpet sent to summon them, and that so inraged Massey's men, that they entered the Town, and slew about 40, took divers Offi∣cers, and 130 common Souldiers, and store of Arms.

A new Ordinance for settling the Committee of both Kingdomes was sent up to the Lords, who denyed to pass the former, and the reason there∣of was, because divers of that Committee, especially of the Commons, were apprehended not to be so much the General's friends, as others who were desired to be brought in, and this caused some peekes among them.

They also moved the Lords to pass the Ordi∣nance for excluding the Members of both Houses, who had deserted the Parliament which had long attended their Lordship's resolution.

Order was given to the Lord Mayor, and Mili∣tia of London to remove all suspicious persons, Pa∣pists and Delinquents out of the Cities of London and Westminster, and the Suburbs, and the like di∣rections were sent to the Commitees of the several Counties.

The horse of Sir Tho. Fairfax, and of the Earl of Manchester joyned with the Scots horse, and were in all about 8000.

Supplies arrived at Lyme, and the besieged beat back the enemy at three assaults, and forced them to leave behind them their scaling ladders, and about 125 of their men Prisoners, Colonel Page  84 Bluet Colonel Strangways, and one Pawlet, and di∣vers others slain; and three great Guns, and Prince Maurice his own Colours taken.

In these assaults, they relate that the women of the Town would come into the thickest of the dan∣ger, to bring Powder, Bullet and provisions to the men, incouraging them upon the Works.

In a Petition to the Commons from London, * they give them thanks for their indefatigable pains and care, and being sensible of some delays in the great affairs, by reason the Committee of both Kingdomes did not sit, they desire a speedy course may be taken therein.

This Petition was suspected by the General's * friends, to be set on foot by those who were not his friends, and jealousies now began among the Grandees of the Parliament.

The Lord Roberts Field-Marshal to Essex his Ar∣my, had given him the allowance of 6 l. per diem.

Some of the Garrison of York Sallied out upon the Scots, but were beaten back by them, and about 60 killed and taken, and a Church in the Su∣burbs.

The Lord General was at Greenland house to view it, and his forces quartered at Henly.

The King's forces carryed away all they could get at Reading, and deserted it.

The French Merchants of London in a Petition to the House, shew'd that some of their Ships were stayed in Normandy by the King's Commission granted to some Irish Rebels, under pretence of satisfying them their losses since the Rebellion.

Mr. St. John was by the Commons assigned to be Attorney General. Pembroke, Caermarthen and Car∣digan * were associated under Colonel Laugherne, with like Powers, as in other associations.

A Committee of Western Gentlemen residing in London was named, to take care for supply of Ply∣mouth, and the Western parts.

The late Commotions in Scotland were some∣what appeased.

The Earles of Montrosse and Craford fled to Newcastle, pursued by the Earl of Calender, and Marquess Huntley fled to the Hills.

The Archbishop was again brought to his Try∣all, * and proofs produced against him, touching his endeavours to set up Popery, his removing the Com∣munion Tables, and setting up Altars in their places; His causing superstitious Pictures, Images and Cruci∣fixes to be set up in many Churches, and in the King's Chapel causing a Popish Crucifix to be hung up over the Altar, upon every Good Fryday, which had not been there before, since the Reign of Queen Mary.

Other pictures were shewed to the Lords, which were found in the Archbishop's Study and Cham∣bers, as the inspiring of divers Popes and Cardinals by the Holy Ghost; resembled in the form of a Dove. Another was of our Saviour bleeding upon the Cross, and Pilate crying out Ecce homo, and his Consecra∣ting of Churches, Tapers, Candlesticks, Organs, and particular Prayers for those purposes, were urged a∣gainst him.

The Commons ordered the taking away of all such Pictures, Images and Crucifixes in the King's Chapel at Whitehall.

Some agreement for the present was between both Houses for the sitting of the Committee of both Kingdomes.

By Letters from the General dated at Henly, he * certifies the Parliament that he is upon a further advance towards the enemy, and that he may have no hindrance, but to take his whole Army with him, he desires a party may be sent out of the City to block up Greenland-house, a place very prejudicial to the Country thereabouts, that he sent a party to view the works, but thought it unsafe to adven∣ture the taking of it by onset. Major General Skippon riding about the Works, had his horse shot under him.

Another Letter came the next day from the Ge∣neral, That he was now marching from Reading to seek out the Enemy, who were said to be about Wantage, where he resolved to quarter that night, and to give them no rest, till they fight or fly. He further puts the House in mind, that they would send out a party to reduce Greenland-house.

So many came into the General, that he writes for 4000 Arms to arm the Voluntiers.

Goring with 4000 horse marched through Lei∣ceistershire, and was skirmished with by the Lord Gray.

Colonel Cromwel joyned with the Scots.

The Committee of the Revenue gave a full ac∣count to the House of all their Receipts, and dis∣bursements. The Earl of Nottingham had his Pen∣sion consirmed to him, and part of it was assigned to the Countess.

It was proposed that all the forces that could, should be drawn together out of Oxfordshire, Berks and Bucks, to joyn with a Brigade to be sent out of London, under Major General Brown, and that Whitelocke should command the whole party. But Whitelocke knew the height of the Major General, and that he thought it susficient for him to obey the orders of the Lord General himself, and that this might cause a difference betwixt them, and therefore Whitelocke waved it.

A Letter of Complement was sent from the Par∣liament of England, to the Parliament of Scotland now sitting.

The Archbishop came again to his Tryal, where * was produced against him his own Diary, wherein it appeared that he had alter'd part of the King's Oath taken at his Coronation, and that in a most mate∣rial point, for his passing such Laws as the People should choose, which he left out, and added a saving of the King's Prerogative in the Oath.

The Lord Roberts, and Sir Philip Stapleton with 3000 horse entred Abington, which the King's party quitted to them.

The Lord General by two Proclamations prohi∣bited all plunderings, and outrages on pain of death.

The Committee of both Kingdomes were orde∣red to prepare a narrative to be sent from the Parliament to the States of Holland, touching the negotiation of their Ambassadors here, and to com∣plement them.

The Lord Fairfax took in Cawood Castle, and the Scots by assault took one of the Enemies works before York, and finding it maintained by Foreig∣ners and Papists, gave them no quarter.

Whilst they lay before York, the King's forces in Westmoreland, and Cumberland made great incur∣sions into Durham.

A Committee of Citizens was appointed to con∣sider of borrowing 200000 l. here, or beyond Seas.

Lyme was brought to some streights by the Ene∣mies Countermining of them.

Captain Temple beat up the Enemies quarters at Islip, slew 15, took divers Officers, Sir James For∣tescue and others, and 37 prisoners, and 18 bayles of Serge.

The Garrison at Plymouth sallyed out two miles, and took from the Enemy 9 peices of Ordnance, 150 Prisoners, 100 Cows, and 500 Sheep.

General Essex advanced to Bullington-green, with∣in a mile of Oxford, and faced it.

Page  85 Mr. Walter Long was by Ordinance made Regi∣ster of the Chancery, and a Committee was ap∣pointed to consider of fit persons to be made Judges.

Colonel Massey took Beverston Castle, in Glouce∣stershire, and in it sixty persons, with all their Ord∣nance, * and Ammunition.

From thence at Malmesbury he took the Garri∣son, being three hundred men, and among them two of the Earl of Berkshire's Sons, four hundred Arms, seven pieces of Ordnance, Powder, and Ammunition.

From thence he went to Chippenham, which the Enemy quitted to him, with much Provision and Arms.

An Ordinance was agreed to bestow on him a thousand pounds per annum out of Sir John Winter's Estate.

By advice of the Assembly of Divines, an erro∣nious Print of the English Bible at Amsterdam, and sent over hither, was suppressed by order of Par∣liament.

The Earl of Denbigh took in Russell house in Staffordshire, and in it Colonel Lane, and divers Officers, with two hundred Prisoners, and their Arms, and 10000 l. worth of Goods, and so open∣ed the passage betwixt Coventry and London; the stout Morelanders joyned with him. The Earl of Manchester's Horse joyned with the Scots Horse, and those of Sir Thomas Fairfax, and advanced to interpose between Prince Rupert and York, or Lancaster

Mr. Hix a Minister, appointed to Preach be∣fore the Parliament, and complaining that he wanted Books, being plundered, the Commons gave him 30 l. to buy more.

A Gentleman who came from Ireland to Oxford, and so to London, informed the Parliament, That the Propositions of the Protestants there were cast off, but those of the Rebels countenanced.

June 1644. Sir William Brereton was made Ma∣jor General of Cheshire, and the adjacent parts, with like power as in other Associations.

The Enemy assaulting Lyme, Major Rutsford with a party of the Garrison sallied out, and beat them back, took about three hundred Prisoners, one brass piece of Ordnance, and great store of Arms.

Prince Rupert took Bolton in Lancashire by storm, after three Repulses; which so irritated the Prince his Forces, that they put to the Sword many, after they had laid down their Arms; and among them were named four Ministers, Heycocke, Tilsbury, Harper, and Fogge, this was highly discoursed of by the Parliament party, That a foreign Prince should be allowed to exercise so much severity upon the lives of the English in their own Country.

The Lord Chandois left Oxford, and came in to the Parliament.

The Earl of Calender possest himself of Mor∣peth for the Parliament.

By Combination between the Mayor of New∣castle, and the Governour of the South-shields for the Parliament, they were betrayed to the King's Forces.

The Seamen discovering a Plot to betray Sun∣derland, put themselves in Arms, planted two pie∣ces of Ordnance, and secured the Town: For which Service the Parliament gave them 200 l. and ordered the Captain that betrayed the South-shields, to be tryed for it, by a Council of War.

Letters of Credence were received by the Parlia∣ment from the King of Denmark.

Colonel Jones Governour of Farnham Castle, was assaulted in his Quarters by some of the Garrison of Basing-house; but three Troups of Colonel Norton's coming to his assistance, they took divers Officers, and about seventy five Souldiers, and drove the rest to Basing. Sir Edward Baynton upon a submissive Petition was restored to the House.

Captain Swanley was called into the House of Commons, and had thanks given him for his good Service, and a Chain of Gold of two hundred pounds value, and Captain Smith his Vice-Ad∣miral had another Chain of one hundred pounds value.

The Lord General Essex had a skirmish with the * King's Forces at Anslow-Bridge near Islip, where they had made Breast-works on both sides, but Essex forced them to retreat, and took thirty of them Prisoners, Waller on the other side took sixty Prisoners, and about forty were slain of the Par∣liaments party.

Coningham one of Essex's Colonels, having his * Arm shot off by a great Shot, was so far from be∣ing daunted at it; that he held up his other Arm, and said, I have yet another Arm left to fight for the Parliament: but he died not long after.

Major Mathews was likewise wounded, and the report was, that the King lost that day near two thousand men that were killed, and wounded, and ran away.

Colonel Hutchinson Governour of Nottingham, met with a party of the Newarkers, slew Captain Thimbleby, and took fifty of them: The same party from Nottingham the next day took more of the Newarkers, twenty Gentlemen and Officers, and sixty of their Horse and Furniture.

The Lords sent to the Commons; that a Regi∣ment of Foot, or more, might be sent to joyn with the Forces then before Greenland-house; and that they might batter it from the other side of the Thames.

The Dutch Ambassadour came from the King to the Lord General, to know if he were inclined to Peace, and would treat with them; he answer∣ed, That he had much desired Peace, but was not im∣powred to treat about it, that being reserved to the Parliament. And so the Ambassadors returned to * London.

The Marquess of Argile quieted the Commo∣tions in Scotland.

Mr. Nichols, one of the Committee sent to the Army, informed the Parliament, that the King and Prince, with the three thousand Horse, and a party of Musquettiers, were marched from Oxford towards Bristoll, as was conceived.

That the King sent a Party before to Burford, whither he followed; and that the Duke of York with some Forces was in Oxford, and that the Town was in some streights, and want of Provi∣sions: there are fifteen hundred of the King's Army, besides the Scholars, and eight hundred Towns-men.

At Burford the King was fain in person to drive his Souldiers out of the Town.

The Archbishop was again brought to his Try∣all, * and urged against him, That he so furnished the King's Chapel, that Seminary Priests would come thi∣ther for their Devotion and Adoration: and some of them were instanced, who said, they knew no dif∣ference between their Churches, and this Chapel, and some other of our Churches, as they were new ordered.

The King went from Burford with five thousand horse and foot, twenty Carriages, and some small Drakes, Sir William Waller closely pursued him; they are supposed to intend for Worcester, and so to Shrewsbury, that they may the more convenient∣ly joyn, as there shall be occasion with Prince Ru∣pert.

Page  86 General Essex pursued them another way by Chipping Norton.

The Commons sent a Committee to London, to treat about the sending of more Forces speedily for the reducing of Oxford and Greenland-house, and * the better securing those Counties for the Parlia∣ment.

The City freely agreed hereunto, and resolved to send out another Brigade of horse and foot, un∣der Major General Brown, to joyn with the Forces of these three Counties.

The Earl of Warwick relieved Lyme with Pro∣visions * and Ammunition, which they greatly wan∣ted; and with some of his Seamen helped to keep the Line. Prince Maurice stormed the Town, but Captain Ceely the Governour, and his Garrison with the Seamen, made such a Defence, that sixty of the Prince's men were slain, two Captains, and many of his Souldiers taken prisoners, and but eight men lost of the Garrison in this storm.

The chief Commanders before Lyme were Prince Maurice, the Lord Pawlet, and Sir John Borlace, with about 2500 horse and foot in all.

The next day but one, they began again to storm the Town, and came on with as much bravery and resolution, as could be performed by English men against English-men; and they were as gallantly re∣ceived by the Garrison, and 400 of the Prince's men were slain on the place, and not above seven of the Garrison.

All this was certified to the Parliament by Let∣ters * from the Earl of Warwick, to whom a Letter of thanks was sent from both Houses, for his great Service in relieving this Town; and they ordered 1000 l. per an. to the Town, out of the Lord Paw∣let's Estate, and full satisfaction to the Inhabitants for their losses, and the Lord General was desired to send a party to relieve them.

It was much wondred at, that this Town could so long hold out, being of little strength, more than by the courage of their men, and situate low under a Hill, which was of great advantage to the Besiegers, and they were sometimes brought unto such streights, that their Water was noisom with the bloud of those slain, and they much wan∣ted provision of Victuals, and Ammunition which the Earl of Warwick supplyed.

He also certified the Parliament, that he had ta∣ken two Pinnaces at Sea, one bound for Bristoll, va∣lued at 18000 l.

A Troup of the Earl of Dallensie's Regiment marched to the Walls of York, killed thirty, and took thirty four Prisoners, sxity Horse, and forty Oxen and Cows from the Garrison.

General Lesley and the Earl of Manchester in∣trenched on each side of York, very near to the * City, and the Scots took and fortified a Windmill near the Town, though the Garrison made 200 great shot at them.

The Parliament ordered the Lord General to pursue the King, and Sir William Waller to march into the West, which was contrary to the Gene∣ral's liking, and it was thought strange that the Committee of both Kingdoms would at that di∣stance take upon them to give particular Orders, for the Services and course of their Armies March, and not rather to leave it to the chief Commanders that were upon the place, and who upon every mo∣tion of the Enemy, might see cause to alter their Counsels.

This increased the jealousies and peeks between the General and Waller, both gallant men; but the * General thought himself undervalued, and Waller was high enough: Nor did there want Pick-thanks to blow these coals of jealousie; and this proved unhappy to the Parliament Affairs, as will appear afterwards.

Mr. Hungerford a Member of the House of Com∣mons, was committed for going to the Anti-Par∣liament at Oxford. Colonel Massey took in Tewks∣bury, and in it Lieutenant Colonel Mynne, and many Prisoners, Powder, and Ammunition, and slew several inferiour Officers.

A Battery was made at the Windmill-hill at * York, five pieces of Ordnance planted, which shot into the Town, and did much hurt; the Lord Eglinton with four thousand Scots entred some of the Gates, and made a passage into the Mannor∣house.

A strong party sallying out of the City, were beaten back with loss; General Leuen with his Regiment took a Fort from the Enemy, and in it 120 prisoners, the Garrison burnt up much of the Suburbs.

The Archbishop came again to his Tryal, and * the Matters against him were, Touching his Cere∣monial, and Popish Consecrating of Churches, and con∣cerning the Book of allowing Recreation on Sundays.

The Earl of Manchester having made a Mine, for∣ced the great Fort at York, where all the Defen∣ders were slain and taken, and but ten or twelve Scots lost.

The Earl of Newcastle sent to General Leuen, to * know the Cause of his drawing thither: Leuen an∣swers, That he wondred Newcastle should be ignorant thereof; that his intent was to bring that City to the obedience of the King and Parliament, and therefore for avoiding further effusion of blood, he summoned him once more to render the Town.

The Earl of Newcastle, Sir Thomas Widderington, and other chief Commanders, with a strong party sallyed out of the Town, endeavouring to escape, but were driven back into the City, from whence they, shooting at a Tent where Leuen was, took off part of the Tent, but did no other hurt.

Sudley Castle in Glocestershire was yielded to Sir William Waller at mercy, and taken in it nine Cap∣tains, * twenty two inferiour Officers, and all the common Souldiers, of whom a hundred and fifty took the Covenant, and listed themselves for the Parliament: they took here likewise 4000 l. worth of Cloth.

The same day Colonel Purefoy with the War∣wick Forces took Compton-house, and in it 5500 l. in * money, and five or six Pots of money more found in a Pond, all their Arms, four hundred Sheep, about a hundred head of Cattel, and great store of Plunder.

The King's Forces as they hasted to Worcester, broke down the Bridges after them, to hinder the pursuit of them, and many of them crouding to get over Pursow Bridge, the Planks left for their passage brake, and about sixty of them were drowned.

The Commons again desired the Lords Concur∣rence to the Ordinance, for secluding the Mem∣bers * who had deserted the Parliament, and assisted their Enemies; but the Lords were not yet satis∣fied therein.

A Party continued before Greenland-house.

An Ordinance passed for the relief of the maim∣ed and sick Souldiers, and for the Wives and Chil∣dren of those who were slain in the Service of the Parliament.

The King sent from Bewdely a party of three thousand Horse to relieve Dudley Castle, besieged by the Earl of Denbeigh, who coming suddenly up∣on the Earl, he sent out a Forlorn, commanded by Colonel Mitton, who charged the Enemy so home, and was so far engaged, that the Earl's Page  87 friends advised him to draw off as fast as he could to save himself and the rest of his Company, the Forlorn being given over for lost, and the King's Forces far in number exceeding the Forces of the Earl. *

But the Earl would not so leave his Friends in∣gaged, but in person led on his Party, and charged the Enemy so hotly that they retreated in disor∣der, and the Earl rescued and brought off his For∣lorn, and the Enemy lost about a hundred of their men, besides many Officers and common Souldi∣ers taken Prisoners by the Earl, and lost but seven∣teen of his own men.

Lyme being relieved, and the Siege raised, the * Earl of Warwick went on shore, and much wondred that the Works of the Town being so slight, and the Enemy so strong, that yet the Town should hold out so long, and against so many fierce As∣saults, and yet in the whole Siege, the Town lost not above a hundred and twenty men, but the Ene∣my lost two thousand.

Letters of Thanks were ordered to be written from the Parliament to the Town, and two thou∣sand pounds gratuity to be given them, and Cloths for the Souldiers.

General Essex sent a Party to have relieved Lyme, but Prince Maurice was gone with all his re∣maining Forces, and the Siege raised before they came.

The Party sent by the Lord General to relieve Lyme, marched from thence to Weymouth, which was rendred to them upon terms, and all their Ordnance, Arms, and Ammunition left behind them.

Prince Rupert took in Leverpoole, a Garrison of the Parliaments in Lancashire, but they first ship∣ped all their Arms, Ammunition, and portable Goods, and most of the Officers and Souldiers went on Ship-board, whilst a few made good the Fort, which they rendred to the Prince upon quar∣ter, yet were all put to the Sword.

The Lord General came to Dorchester, where divers Western Gentlemen came in to him, and among them, the Lord Becham, Son to the Marquess of Hertford.

The Queen was brought to Bed of a Daughter * at Exeter.

The Parliament now ordered that the General should continue in the Western Service, and Sir William Waller to attend the motions of the King's Army, and that the Earl of Denbigh, Sir William Brereton, Colonel Massey, Colonel Mitton, and Co∣lonel Rigby and their Forces should joyn with Sir William Waller.

The Earl of Newcastle desired a Treaty, which was admitted, and he demanded to march away with Bag and Baggage, and Arms, and Drums beat∣ing, and Colour•s flying, and that all within the Town * should have liberty of Conscience, the Prebends to en∣joy their Places, to have Common Prayer, Organs, Copes, Surplices, Hoods, Crosses, &c.

These things were denied by the Parliaments Ge∣nerals but they offered the Earl of Newcastle, that he and all the Commanders should go forth on horseback with their Swords, and the common Souldiers to march out with Staves in their hands, and a Months Pay, and all else to be left behind them.

The Enemy desired four or five days time to consider hereof, which was granted.

Taunton Dean was rendred to the Lord General, and some other Places in the West where he was.

The Archbishop was again brought to his Tryal, and the Matters insisted on against him, were, His * introducing of Popery and Arminianism.

The Lords sent to the Commons, that they could not consent to the Ordinance for secluding the Mem∣bers of both Houses, who had deserted the Parliament; because they had already voted the Readmission of * the Earl of Holland: And the Commons referred it to a Committee to consider of some Expedient, as to the Case of the Earl of Holland.

A Committee of Lawyers was appointed for sequestring and selling the Chambers in the Inns of Court, belonging to malignant Lawyers.

The General by his Letters from Dorchester, in∣forms the Parliament, that the Country there∣abouts generally declared themselves for the Par∣liament, and had furnished his Army with plenty of provisions.

The Lord Canoule a Scot, Master of the Horse to the King, came in and submitted himself to the Lord General.

The King left his Foot at Worcester, and from thence went with two thousand Horse to Evesham, where he took the Mayor, and divers Aldermen of the Town, and carried them with him prisoners to Oxford, and brake down the Bridges after them as they passed, to hinder Sir William Waller's pur∣suit of them; they likewise burnt down many houses in the Suburbs of Worcester, the better to secure the City, and the like they did at Oxford, and also at Abington.

The Siege continued before Basing-house, but those that were before Greenland-house, thought not fit, upon the King's coming back to Oxford, to con∣tinue any Siege to Greenland-house, till they might have the Forces of Major General Brown to joyn with them.

An Ordinance passed to impower the Commit∣tee of Oxon, Berks, and Bucks, to raise Forces and Money to pay them, and they to be under Brown's Command.

Troubles were in the Virginia Plantation.

The Archbishop was again brought to his Try∣all, and the same points of Popery and Arminia∣nism * urged against him, and as a proof thereof, the Remonstrance of the House of Commons in Par∣liament, in the year 1628.

Sir Richard Onsley's Regiment came to assist Co∣lonel Norton lying before Basing-house, to whom, and to Colonel Morley, the Commons sent a Letter of thanks.

At Weymouth the Lord General took a hundred pieces of Ordnance, two thousand Musquets, a thousand Swords, Arms, Pistols, Powder, and a∣bout sixty of great and small Vessels.

The General sent parties to Dartmouth, VVare∣ham, and other places.

The Lord Viscount L'Isle had allowed him 1000 l. upon account of the Irish Service.

Plymouth Garrison sent out parties, who beat up the Enemies quarters, and at one time, took forty, and at another time a hundred and fifty horse and prisoners.

A Ship with Letters to the Parliament from Scotland, and two other Ships loaden with Coals for London, put in at Harwich, and there cast An∣chor, and the Mariners went on shore, leaving none aboard the Ships to guard them.

In the mean time came into the harbour a Pin∣nace of the King's, carrying the Parliament Co∣lours, and finding these Ships without any Guard, boarded them, and carried them clear away Westward.

The King marched from Oxford towards Bed∣ford, and several parties of his Army did very much spoil as they marched in Bucks, Bedford, and Hert∣fordshires; they plundred Leighton: and at Dun∣stable when the people were at Church, they shot Page  88 at the Minister in the Pulpit, and committed many outrages there, and in many other places.

Major General Brown marched out with his Forces to Barnet, and from thence to St. Albans, where the Forces of the Associated Counties are to meet him, and the Commons took care for the supply of all of them.

Sir Thomas Fairfax and Major General Lesley, were sent from the Leaguer before York, with six thousand Horse and Dragoons, and five thousand Foot, to relieve Lancashire, and to attend the mo∣tions of Prince Rupert.

Colonel Charles Fairfax sent to assist the Scots party at Sunderland, beat back the Earl of Mon∣tross, Musgrave, and the rest into Newcastle: and the Earl of Calender with a reserve of ten thousand * Scots entred England to assist the Parliament.

The Commons took order touching the Prero∣gative Court, and appointed Sir Nathaniel Brent to be the Judge of that Court.

Letters of thanks were sent to the Lord General for his good Service: and upon a Petition of the Western Gentlemen, that he might continue in the Service there, it was so ordered, and an Or∣dinance appointed for the impowering a Commit∣tee of the West, as in other Associations.

The Earl of VVarwick with his Fleet sailed along the Coast as the Lord General marched, and car∣ried his Ammunition, and sent Ships to keep in the Enemy, and some to assist the Parliament Forces who besieged Gernesey Castle.

The Earls of Leicester and of Newport, left the King, and came in to the Parliament.

Upon the General's advance towards Exeter, the Queen sent a Trumpeter to desire him to for∣bear * any Acts of hostility against the Town, for that she was weak and ill, being lately brought to Bed there.

The Covenant was ordered to be tendred to all Physicians, Surgeons, and Apothecaries in London, and to be sent in to the several Counties.

Mr. Peters gave a large Relation to the Com∣mons of all the Business of Lyme, where he was with the Earl of Warwick, and that after the Siege rai∣sed, the Enemy set fire on divers gallant houses a∣bout Studcome, Frampton, and other places.

The Earl of Denbigh took in Oswestry in Shrop-shire, but would not suffer his Souldiers to plunder it, the Town giving Five hundred pounds to the Souldiers.

In the Town and Castle were taken, one Lieute∣nant Colonel, four Captains, divers inferiour Offi∣cers, three hundred and five common Souldiers and Arms.

Sir William Waller sent for Major General Brown to joyn with him.

Letters of thanks were sent from the Houses to the Earl of Denbigh.

Greenland-house was besieged by Major General Brown, their Batteries planted on the further side of the River Thames, yet neer the house, against which they made many shot, and much battered it, they sent to London for some Petards, and two more pieces of Battery.

At a Conference with the Lords, Mr. Prideaux * offered to them the Reasons, why the Commons insisted upon the Ordinance as they had past it, For secluding the Members of both Houses, who have deserted the Parliament: and the Lords shortly af∣ter concurred therein with the Commons.

Mr. Bagshaw a Member of the House of Com∣mons, who had deserted them, and was one of the Anti-Parliament at Oxford, was taken in Oxford-shire, and brought to London to the House of Com∣mons, who committed him prisoner to the King's Bench in Scouthwark, where he had been with so much glory chosen to be their Burgess for this Par∣liament.

An Ordinance passed for the cutting and drying of Turf, upon the Lands near London, for Fuel for the City.

July 1644. The Parliament gave way for 4000 quarters of Grain to be transported beyond Sea, and to have in return from thence, Arms and Am∣munition, and twelve Iron pieces of Ordnance.

The Houses adjourned every Tuesday and Thurs∣day, several Ordinances past for associations in the West, and other Counties.

The King's forces finding an advantage, fell * upon a party of Sir William Waller's Horse, near Edge-hill, and forced them to a disorderly retreat, with the loss of 100 of their men, and divers of the King's party were slain, the Armies lay upon the Hill all the night, and the next day fought.

Sir Henry Vane, Jun. from the North, informed * the Commons of the state of the Siege of York, closely begirt by the Parliaments forces, that a Mine being sprung by the Earl of Manchester's Men, without giving notice thereof to the Scots, it did not succeed, but 300 of the Earl's Men were lost, about 40 of them slain, and the rest taken Priso∣ners.

That provisions in the City are scarce, and pro∣bably it had been rendered before this time, but that they expect Prince Rupert's coming to relieve them, who with 8000 Horse, besides Foot, is re∣ported to be come out of Lancashire, but Major Shuttleworth fell upon a party of his forces, and took Sir Simon Fanshaw, and other prisoners.

The Garrison of Plymouth sallied out of the Town, and fell upon the Enemies quarters, took from them about 50 Horse, slew Captain Arundel, and divers inferiour Officers, and many Soul∣diers.

Young Captain Chudley, with his Major Drake, revolted to the King's party in Cornwal.

The Queen sent to General Essex for a safe con∣duct, * to go to the Bath for her health, he answered that if she pleased, he would give her Majesty a safe conduct to London, where she might have the best means for her health, but the other way, he said, he knew not.

Sir William Waller by Letters informed the Par∣liament, that the King marched towards Copredy-bridge, * and some other passes, that Colonel Mid∣dleton with four or five Troops of Horse charged them, and Waller with his Horse passed over a lit∣tle below that place, and seeing the Enemy had placed a strong Body on the top of the Hill, he staid for his other Regiments to come up to him.

That Middleton routed the Enemy, and pursued them near a mile, which being perceived by some of Waller's forces, they left a passage, which they were to have maintained, and deserted their great Guns, to adventure on the Enemy, and thereby dispossessed themselves of the Guns and Passage together.

That a strong party of the Enemy wheeling a∣bout, forced Middleton to retreat with some loss, and in the skirmish he was dismounted among the King's Forces, who taking him to be one of their Commanders, mounted him again, wishing him to make hast to kill a Roundhead, by which means he escaped.

On Waller's part Colonel Baker, Colonel Vanes, and a Dutch Captain were taken prisoners, and a∣bout a hundred Common Souldiers, Lieutenant Colonel Bains slain, or taken, and they lost five Drakes, a Minion, and two Leather Guns, and a∣bout 140 of his men slain, and taken prisoners.

Page  89 The King lost Colonel Clark, and Colonel But∣ler, and another Colonel, and divers inferiour Of∣ficers, and about 160 of his Souldiers killed and taken prisoners, and he lost two pieces of Ord∣nance.

Waller drew all his horse and foot to the top of the Hill, and faced the Enemy, and they skirmished all that day, both parties in this fight demeaned themselves with great courage, Middleton had a particular incounter with the Lord Wilmot whom he took prisoner, but he was reseued by the Sol∣diers, who had him in custody, being wounded.

The King's Forces thought they had much the better of this day, but Waller kept the ground, and the Enemy drew off.

About Chard in Somersetshire 400 Country-men came and offered their service to the Parlia∣ment.

The Queen sent again for a safe Conduct, but General Essex did not think fit to grant it.

Waller by his Letters informed the Parliament, that after the fight at Cropedy Bridge, the King sent a Trumpeter to him with a gracious Message, * to which he returned answer, that he had no. Com∣mission to entertain any Message from His Majesty without permission from the Parliament, to whom ap∣plication was to be made in these matters.

The Dutch Ambassadour sent to the Parliament about some ships seised on, which was referred to the Committee of both Kingdomes.

The tenth of all prizes were ordered to be for the Earl of Warwick, towards satisfaction of his great disbursements in the Parliaments service.

The Forces of York sallyed out several time * upon the besiegers, but were beaten back with loss, they were in great want of Salt in the City, but the besiegers drew off to a greater distance from the City, the better to resist their Sallies, and to receive Prince Rupert who was come to Craven.

The Portugeses had a great Victory against the Spaniards.

The Lords consented to the Ordinance for seclu∣ding the Members of both Houses, who had deser∣ted the Parliament.

The Portugal Ambassadour desired to be heard, before some Ships appointed for that purpose, did go to the River Amazons, within his Masters do∣minions, which was referred to a Committee.

The Archbishop came again to his Tryal.

Prince Maurice sent a party to burn Barnstable, but the Town rose against them, shut them out, and killed about 20 of them, hereof they gave no∣tice to the Lord General, who sent the Lord Roberts with a strong party to secure them.

The Lord Grey routed a party of the Enemy near Stamford killed 6 of them, took 40 horse, and as many Gentlemen, and divers inferiour Officers, and pursued Colonel Hastings and his forces.

The besiegers of Greenland-house had almost bea∣ten the house about the Ears of the Garrison.

A Committee was appointed to consider of the * manner of reception of the Dutch Ambassadour, and of other Ambassadours.

Upon Prince Rupert's coming towards York, the besiegers drew off from the City, to be the better prepared to receive the Prince.

Divers Letters were intercepted going from Ox∣ford * to the Queen, wherein the King acquaints her with the Parliaments purpose to present him Propositi∣ons for Peace, which if She likes, he thinks will be the best way for settlement, as things now stand.

In those and other Letters, there are relations of the late fight at Cropedy-bridg, and of other in∣counters, much different from the relations thereof made by the Commanders upon the place.

Colonel Warren taken prisoner by the Parlia∣ments Forces in the North, and now prisoner in Hull, was sent for up to the Parliament, in whose service he had formerly been, and they committed him to the Tower.

Colonel Monke is said to have done good ser∣vice * for the Parliament, against the Irish Rebels, till he received a Command from the King, upon which he deserted his Regiment in Ireland, and served in person against the Parliament, whose forces took him prisoner with Colonel Warren, and he was now likewise committed to the Tower.

Prince Rupert having relieved the Countess of Derby, who had couragiously defended Lathom-house, besieged 18 weeks by Colonel Ashton, Moore, and Rigby, and they being all drawn off,

The Prince marched towards York, with 20000 * horse and foot, upon notice whereof, the three Generals for the Parliament, Leven, Manchester and Fairfax, raised their Siege from before York, and drew into a large plain, about 8 miles from the City, called Marston Moore.

The Prince fetching a compass about with his Army got into York, and there the Earl of New∣castle with 6 or 7000 men joyning with him, they both marched unto Marston Moore, and possessed themselves of the best places of Advantage for ground and wind.

The Right Wing of the Parliament was com∣manded by Sir Thomas Fairfax, and consisted of all his horse, and three Regiments of the Scots horse, the Left Wing was commanded by the Earl of Man∣chester, and Colonel Cromwel.

One body of their foot was commanded by the Lord Fairfax, and consisted of his foot, and two brigades of the Scots foot for a reserve, and the main body of the rest of the foot was commanded by General Leven.

The Right Wing of the Prince's Army, was commanded by the Earl of Newcastle, the left Wing by the Prince himself, and the main body com∣manded by General Goring, Sir Charles Lucas, and Major General Porter, thus were both sides drawn up into Batalia.

July the 3d. In this posture both Armies faced each other, and about seven a Clock in the morn∣ing the fight began between them.

The Prince with his Left Wing, fell on the Par∣liament's Right Wing, routed them, and pursued them a great way, the like did General Goring, Lucas and Porter upon the Parliaments main body.

The three Generals giving all for lost, hasted out of the Field, and many of their Soldiers fled, and threw down their Arms the King's Forces, especially Prince Rupert, too eagerly following the chace, the victory, now almost atchieved by them, was again snatched out of their hands.

For Colonel Cromwel with the brave Regiment of his Countrymen, and Sir Thomas Fairfax having rallyed some of his horse, fell upon the Prince's Right Wing, where the Earl of Newcastle was, and routed them, and the rest of their Companions rallying, they fell altogether upon the divided bodies of Rupert and Goring, and totally disper∣sed them, and obtained a compleat Victory after three hours sight.

From this Battel and the pursuit, some reckon were buryed 7000 Englishmen, all agree, that above 3000 of the Prince's men were slain in the Battel, besides those in the chace, and 3000 priso∣ners taken, many of their chief Officers, 25 pieces of Ordnance, 47 Colours 10000 Arms, two Wag∣gons of Carabins and Pistols, 130 barrels of Pow∣der, and all their bag and baggage.

Page  90 For this great Victory, the Parliament ordered a day to be kept of publick thanksgiving, and a Letter of thanks to be written to the three Gene∣rals, who with their Armies kept a day of thanks∣giving for the great success that God had given them, Colonel Cromwel was much cryed up for his service in this Battel, and received a slight hurt with a Pistol shot in the neck, which some imagi∣ned to be by accident, and want of care by some of his own men.

Sir Thomas Fairfax likewise performed very gal∣lant service in this Action, and both the Comman∣ders and the Souldiers on both parts acquitted themselves like couragious Englishmen, it pleased God upon this appeal to decide it for the Parlia∣ment.

Prince Rupert escaped narrowly, by the good∣ness of his horse, and got into York, the Papers of the Earl of Newcastle were taken, and among them, the Commission of the Earl of Newcastle to be General, and to make Knights, and they were presented to the Parliament.

The Parliament ordered 30000 l. for Ireland.

A party from Oxford and Wallingford came to relieve Greenland-house, whereupon the Parliament Forces then but a few before it, drew off to Hen∣ly, and the King's Forces brought their fellows little relief, onely carryed away 29 women, and some plunder, and so returned, and then the besie∣gers sate down again before it.

Oswestry being besieged by the King's forces un∣der Colonel Marrowe, Sir Tho. Middleton relieved it, and took 200 Common Souldiers, 7 Carriages, 100 Horse, the Lord Newport's eldest Son, and di∣vers Officers and Arms, and the Lord Newport's Estate was ordered to be sold.

An Ordinance passed for the new Excise.

Sir William Waller mounted his foot, the better to pursue the King's Forces, and the adjacent Coun∣ties furnished him with horses.

Sir Ralph Hopton with about 500 men attempted Marleborough on the Fair day, but the High She∣riff of Wilts, Colonel Ludlow, getting some horse, drove them out of the Town.

A recruit coming to Hopton, Ludlow retreated, and lost about 20 of his men, then a relief coming from Colonel Norton to Ludlow, he again set upon the Enemy, and forced them to fly, and took about 20 of them prisoners.

Upon information from Mr. Strickland, the Par∣liaments Agent in the low Countries, they voted some English Merchants there, who had assisted the King in his affairs against the Parliament, (that is, Webster, Bainham, Manning, Ford and Yard) to be Incendiaries, and Enemies to the State.

The Dutch Ambassadours were solemnly recei∣ved in the Lords House, and afterwards in the * House of Commons, where Chairs were set for them.

They first were carried into the Inner Court of Wardes Chamber, prepared for them as a with∣drawing room, from whence they were conducted by the Serjeant at Arms with his Mace, and two Members of the House sent to accompany the Am∣bassadours into the House.

When they came in, the Speaker and all the Members stood up in their places uncovered, and the Ambassadours saluted them as they passed by, then they sate down in their Chairs, and the Mem∣bers sate down likewise, and when the Ambassa∣dours were covered, the Speaker, and House were covered also.

They made a short speech of the affection of their Masters to these Kingdomes, and their desire to mediate an accord, between the King and his Parliament, and after their Speech ended, they re∣turned with the same ceremonies, as at the coming thither.

During the time of their being in the House, there lay upon the table in their view 48 Colours taken from the King's Forces in the Battel of Mar∣ston-Moore.

Major General Brown with his whole Brigade, came and joyned with the Forces before Greenland-house, * and continued the batteries, upon which Colonel Hawkins the Governour of Greenland sent out for a treaty, and rendred the Fort to Major General Brown, upon these Articles.

1. The House and Fort of Greenland-house, with * all the Ammunition, Ordnance and Provision therein, be delivered up to Major General Brown in the same condition it's now in.

2. That all Officers shall quietly march forth of the said house with their horses and swords, the Com∣mon Souldiers and Canoniers with their Arms and Co∣lours, viz. swords, pikes and musquets.

3. That the said Major General do afford them a Convoy of horse to Nettlebed, to return again within six hours, without any molestation of the forces so con∣voyed.

4. That the said Major General shall cause to be pro∣vided for the said Officers and Souldiers, two teems and carts to carry away their baggage, and such pro∣visions as is necessary for their journey to Wallingford, which carts and horses are to be returned so soon as they come thither.

5. That all prisoners taken on either side be forth∣with discharged.

They left in the house 5 pieces of Ordnance, 30 barrels of Powder, great store of Bullet and Match, a good quantity of Cheese, Bisket, Fish, Malt, Flower, Bear, Oats, Pease, and great plenty of housholdstuff.

Prince Rupert after his defeat at Marston-moore, joyned with the bordering forces of the King in Cumberland and Westmorland, and the Parliaments three Generals sent out a party of 3000 horse and foot, of their several Armies to follow him.

With the rest of their forces they sate down a∣gain before York.

The Parliament thought fit to set a rate upon Coals, for the relief of the poor of London.

The Lord of Rochborough was impeached of high Treason, upon a Letter under the King's hand, taken in the battel, among the Earl of New-castle's papers.

The Parliament, in a kind temper, upon their good success, ordered the Sequestrations of the E∣states of the Earles of Bedford, Holland and Clare to be taken off.

The Town of Blandford had by the Lord Ge∣neral * been used kindly, yet when he was gone, they apprehended a Messenger of his, and sent him to the King's Garrison at Wareham, and contriv'd to betray a party of 100 horse sent thither by Waller, of whom they sent notice to Wareham.

Upon this, Major Sydenham and other Parlia∣ment Commanders came to the Town, seized up∣on the cheif Commanders, and permitted their Souldiers to plunder this perfidious Town.

Prince Maurice his Major came in to the Lord General at Tiverton, and Collonel Blake took in the strong Town of Taunton-Deane for the Parlia∣ment, to whom the Townsmen were well affected.

Page  91 The Earl of Denbigh took in Cholmeley-house, and store of Arms and Ammunition in it.

By Ordinances, divers high Sheriffs were appoin∣ted, and the Lord Roberts was made Lieutenant of Exon and Devonshire, and the Earl of Pembroke of Somersetshire.

Sir Richard Norton a Commissioner of Array in Hampshire, was ordered to be sent for by the Com∣mittee.

Plymouth were well pleased with their new Go∣vernor Colonel Carre.

Mr. Dutton, Mr. Lowe and Mr. Constantine, for∣mer Members of the Parliament, who had deserted them, and were of the Antiparliament at Oxford, were Committed to several Prisons.

Letters were produced under Sir John Hotham's hand, among the Papers of the Earl of Newcastle taken at Marston-moore, by which Hotham expres∣seth * his affection to the Earl, and thereupon the Commons called for the Ordinance for Martial Law, and it being agreed upon, was sent up to the Lords.

Papers, sent to the Houses from the Spanish Am∣bassador touching Graveling, were referred to the Committee of both Kingdomes.

The General by Letters informed the Parlia∣ment, that Barnstable, Taunton and Tiverton, with all the East part of Devonshire, were in his power, and that 4000 of the Countrey proffered their ser∣vice to the Parliament at Chard, 3000 more at Collampton, and 2000 more brought in since by Colonel Ware, and that Barnstable freely entertai∣ned his forces.

That a few of the Malignants are come in to him, that the Queen was come back to Exon, that Hop∣ton was recruited with 500 men, but most of them ran away again.

The three Parliament Generals before York, * prepared to storm the City, and thereupon Sir Thomas Glenham the Governor sent out a Trum∣pet for a parley, which was admitted.

The Lord Inchequin drew out of Wareham 240 horse and dragoons, and marched towards Dorche∣ster to plunder and burn it, but making some pause before the Town, gave opportunity to Major Sy∣denhain to come to their relief, who beat back In∣chequin, took 160 of his men prisoners, with 60 horse, and good store of their gotten plun∣der.

Sir Robert Pye, and Colonel Blake at the taking of Taunton Castle had of the Enemies 11 peices of Ordnance, and store of Arms and Ammunition, with much provision and housholdstuff.

And intercepted Letters boast that Bonesiers were made at Oxford, for the defeat that Prince Rupert gave the three Generals of the Parliament at Marston-moore; and that Hopton had basted Colonel Popham.

The Archbishop was again brought to his Try∣all, and urged against him, That he denyed the Pope * to be Antichrist, and did chide Dr. Hall for giving the Holy Father those Epithetes of Antichristian, &c. That he held the Pope to be the Metropolitan Bishop of the World, and that there could be no true Church without Bishops.

The Speaker offered to the house a petition, which he received from the hands of the French Ambassadour, touching the French and English Merchants in matters of Trade, which the House * referred to the Committee of the Navy, and di∣rected, that when addresses should be made to them as a Parliament, they would doe right.

Colonel Popham was ordered to go down to Taunton, to take into his charge a Regiment rai∣sed by the Country for him.

The Lord Inchequin's party taken at Dorchester, that were Irish Rebels, were there hang'd.

The Lord Admiral upon the General's advance to Exeter, sent the James a Ship of 1200 Tun to lye before it at Torbay, that 100 are come out of the Town to him, and that he, hearing of eleven Ships waiting for the Queen to carry her beyond Sea, sent three lusty Ships to wait on them.

The King marched with 7000 horse and foot to Bath, and from thence towards Bristol, where Hop∣ton joyned with him.

Bostal-house in Bucks was re-fortified by the King's party.

York was rendered upon Articles to the three * Parliament Generals, who entred the Town, and went to the Minster, where they had a Sermon, and thanks returned to God for the recovery of it.

An Order was made touching compounding for Wardships.

Colonel Massey wrote that the King with about 400 horse, and 3000 foot was marched Westward, whereof he had given notice to the General, and to Sir Will. Waller, and that he with three Troops of horse followed the King's Rear, to keep them from plunder.

By Letters from the General, he desires a pass for an Irish Gentlewoman, Governess to the young Princess, and sends a Letter which he received out of Exeter from Sir John Berkley the Governour.

The Irish (as was informed, by the King's al∣lowance) * made a Declaration and Vow, to assist the King against the Puritan Parliament, and to de∣fend Episcopacy, and the Papists of England, and pro∣test against the Covenant, and that they will proceed against all that take it.

The Lord Grey of Groby, and Sir John Gell joyn∣ing together to reduce a Garrison of the King's at Wilney-ferry, who did many outrages to the Coun∣trey, and much infested them, they used this Stra∣tagem * to get the Fort.

They took about 60 Cart-loads of Hay, and o∣ther combustible Matter, and carried them with their Forces up to the very Fort, under the shelter of which their men were secure from any hurt from the Enemy, and putting fire to the combusti∣ble Matter, with the advantage of the wind, did so annoy the Enemy, that they were driven out of the Works, and their Trenches filled with the Hay and other stuff.

Captain Robinson the Governour offered to ren∣der upon terms, to march away with Bag and Bag∣gage, but that being denied, he prepared for a re∣solute defence; but when the Parliament forces be∣gan the storm, Robinson's men threw down their Arms, and craved quarter, which was given them, and but one man killed, there was taken three Cap∣tains, divers inferiour Officers, two Drakes, and seventy common Souldiers: after this they took in Wink field Manor, and Shelford Manor. The Parli∣ament ordered a Letter of thanks to them.

The House being informed that Sir John Berkeley Governour of Exeter hanged up Captain Turpine in cold blood, ordered that the Judges who condemn'd * him, Heath, Banks, Forster and Glanvile, might be impeached of High Treason, which was orde∣red against Glanvile onely, being in their power.

Two Priests who were in the Earl of Newcastle's Army, were sent up to the Parliament, and orde∣red to be tried according to Law.

The Commons ordered a Letter of thanks to the Lord General for his good service in the West.

The Lord General sent word to the Parliament That he was advancing to relieve Plymouth, and to fight with Prince Maurice.

Page  92 Indeed there was a great Debate at the Council of War, whether they should march on Westward, or face about and meet the King, who was march∣ing towards them, and rather fight with him than with Prince Maurice. *

Most of the Council were of opinion to face a∣bout, and to meet the King, but the Lord Roberts was very earnest for them to advance into Cornwal, and by the way to relieve Plymouth, and from thence to march into Cornwal to fight Prince Maurice, af∣firming that when they came into Cornwal, which was his Lordship's Countrey, they should find great assistance, and many to come in to them, by his interest among them.

The General followed his advice, and wrote to the Parliament as before, That the King was in So∣mersetshire, and that the Queen with Bristol and Jermin, were landed at Brest in France.

The House ordered that Mr. Hollis, one of their * Members, shall have out of the King's Revenue, the Fine which was imposed on him by the Star-chamber, 3 Car. for his fidelity to the Common-wealth.

A Ship loaden with Arms and Ammunition for the King, was taken, and brought into Sunderland, with 22 pieces of Ordnance in her.

A Committee of seven Lords and fourteen Com∣mons was appointed to hear any complaints sent in by the Dutch Ambassadours concerning taking of Ships, that right may be done.

A Committee, most of Lawyers, was appointed to consider what Ordinances were fit to be made into Laws, when the King and Parliament should be agreed.

The Archbishop was again brought to his Trial * and proofs produced against him, that he should say the Pope was not Antichrist, but the Head of the Church, and that the Protestant and Romish Religion was all one; and if the one was false, so was the other, and that he concealed a Plot revealed to him, that 7000 men were in pay, attending an opportunity to kill the King, and to massacre the Protestants.

The Lord General sent up to the Parliament a Letter which he received from the Earl of Forth, now made Earl of Brainford, General of the King's Army, acquainting that a Letter was sent by His Majesty from Eversham, by the French Agent, to be by him presented to the Parliament, for Peace.

It was intituled, A gracious Message, directed, to the Lords and Commons in Parliament assembled at * Westminster.

It propounded a Treaty of Peace, and that Com∣missioners might be appointed on both sides to meet and treat thereof, and it was signed by the Lord Digby Secretary.

A Letter came from the three Generals, That now if it pleased the Parliament, they believed the the King would be more inclineable to Peace than for∣merly. This was excepted against by some who were no friends to Peace, but those who longed for Peace, carried it against them, to have a day set to consider of this business.

Major General Brown was ordered to march to Abington, to secure the Magazine and Artillery there.

The Earl of Manchester wrote to the Parliament for their advice, which way the Scots Army and his should march, and that the L. Fairfax was in York.

Upon the defeat at Marston divers persons of * Quality in discontent at that action, and at passa∣ges of Prince Rupert distastfull to them, quitted * their charges under the King, and went beyond Sea; there landed of them at Hamborough, the Earl of Newcastle, and his two Sons, General King, the Lord Falconbridge, the Lord Widdering∣ton, the Earl of Carnwarth, the Bishop of London-derry, Sir Ed. Widderington, Colonel Carnaby, Colonel Basset, Colonel Mazen, Sir William Vava∣sour, Sir Francis Mackworth, and Sir Charles Caven∣dish, and about 80 other.

A party from Northampton came to Banbury, beat the Enemy into the Castle, and took some Priso∣ners.

A party of the Irish Rebels took in Woodhouse in Devonshire near Warmestre, where after the Parlia∣ment Forces had yielded up the House upon Quar∣ter, yet the Irish inhumanely abused both the Men, Women and Children, and afterwards hanged 14 honest wealthy men Clothiers, who were fled thi∣ther for shelter.

Eighteen of the King's best Ships, and ten Mer∣chantmen, with some Frigots, were ordered to be fitted for the Winter guard at Sea.

Mr. Constantine was sent up Prisoner from Poole, and committed to the King's Bench.

The Widow of Captain Turpine who was execu∣ted in cold blood at Exeter, petition'd for satisfac∣tion from Sergeant Glanvill, who gave judgment against him, and from Meredeth and Seymour Justi∣ces of the Peace, which was voted by the Parlia∣ment, and a Letter Written to the General, that if any of their Estates came within his power, he should cause this to be done accordingly.

Captain Hammond, sent out by Colonel Massey with a party of Horse, to relieve the Countrey, whom the Garrison of Berkley Castle had miserably plundered, went to the Castle, beat in the Enemy, drove the Park, rescued and restored to the Coun∣treymen all their Cattel, and killed and took divers Officers and Souldiers of the Garrison Prisoners.

By Letters from the Lord General the House was informed, that he with his whole Army march∣ed from Tiverton Eastward, whereof Prince Mau∣rice having notice, marched after him with 4000 Horse and Foot, that part of the Lord Paulet's Regiment took up their Quarters at Cheriton, where part of the Lord General's Horse fell in upon them, took 60 of their Horse, routed the whole Regiment, killed divers of their Officers and Soul∣diers, took store of Arms, Bag and Baggage.

In his Letter was inclosed a Petition from the Town of Barnstable, newly made a Garrison by the General, that their Major might be their Go∣vernour, and Colonel, with power to levy money, all which was granted.

That he intended to goe for the relief of Ply∣mouth.

The King was at Evil in Somersetshire with about 5000 Horse and Foot.

After the business of Cherington the Lord Paulet * went to Exeter, where the Souldiers at his entring into the Town, asking money of him, he Caned some of them, whereupon they pulled him off from his Horse, and beat him, and his life had been in danger if not rescued.

Waller sent a party of Horse and Dragoons into the West, under Lieutenant General Middleton.

The Commons took great care to provide mo∣ney, and other necessaries for supply of their Ar∣mies in the North, and of the English and Scots Forces in Ireland.

The Ordinance passed for the Court Martial in London, for the trial of the Irish Rebels, and others of greatest distast with the Parliament.

The Lords put the Commons in mind of the pro∣positions for Peace, and desired that the Scots Commissioners might be conferred with about them, and the business hastened, and the Commons appointed a day for it.

The Dutch Ambassadours desired respit of the Page  93 sale of some ships taken for prize, which was gran∣ted.

The Commons had debate about the sale of the Estates of some Papists in Arms, and notorious Delinquents, and of Bishops, Deans and Chap∣ters.

The Archibishop came again to his Trial, and the * Evidence being over, he desired a day for his Coun∣sel to plead to the matter in Law, which was granted, and that afterwards he himself might give his general Answer to the whole Charge.

The Earl of Manchester took in Tickhill Castle near Doncaster upon terms, that the Officers, Sol∣diers, and Gentry there might go quietly to their own homes; all the Arms, Ammunition and Pro∣visions were left to the Earl, and were conside∣rable.

A party of the King's Horse fell upon some Troops of the Earl of Denbigh at Evesham, but the Earl's men took 120 of the Enemies Horse pri∣soners, slew many in the place, and lost but two or three men.

A party of the King's Garrison at Donnington Castle came from thence to Newbury, on the Lord's day, with design to seize upon some of the chief men of the Town, but a party of Sir William Wal∣ler's men rescued them, and beat the Enemy back to the Castle, and took about 20 of them priso∣ners.

Aug. 1644. The Lord Henry Piercy's Regiment marching with the King Westward, quartered at Collyton, and a party of them came in the Evening, and faced Lyme, which Garrison to requite their visit, sent out a party of about 120 Horse that night, under Captain Pyne, Herle, and Bragge, who beat up their Quarters, took about 120 of their Horse, 55 Prisoners, divers Officers, 100 Arms, and good pillage.

After which a like party marched from Lyme to Chard, the King being newly gone with his main Body out of the Town; there they took eleven brave Horses, with rich Saddles, supposed to be the king's own Saddle horses, and divers Priso∣ners.

General Essex marched into Cornwal, the Enemy removing before him, most of the Garrisons near Plymouth, and on the borders of Devon and Corn∣wal were quitted by the Enemy. Mount Stamford with four pieces of Ordnance was regained, Plimp∣ton with eight pieces of Ordnance, Salt Ash, and a great Fort with some great Guns, and many Arms, Launceston, and other small Garrisons yielded to the General.

At Newbridge was a hot encounter betwixt a party of the General's, and Sir Richard Greenvile, disputing the passe into Cornwal, but the General took the Bridge with the losse of about 40 of his men slain, and of the Enemy about 200 killed and taken.

The General from thence went to Greenvile's House, where the Garrison desired a parley, but the General's Souldiers had not patience to treat, but stormed it, all within had quarter, except the Irish Rebels.

There was taken in the house two pieces of Ca∣non, 150 Prisoners, many Arms, great pillage for the Souldiers, Money and Plate to the value of 3000 l. and great quantities of provisions.

At Launceston the Shire-town, the Countrey came in, many of them to the General, and he had 2500 of the Plymouth Forces that joyned with him.

The King came to Exeter, and there joyned with some Forces of P. Maurice and of Hopton. *

The Propositions for Peace were taken into De∣bate by the House, and divers of them voted, the proceedings in them were the more slow, because of the Scots concurrence to be required in every one of them.

Sir Philip Stapleton, and Mr. Herbert came from the General to the Parliament, and made report to the Commons of the General's progress in the West, as before mentioned, and that the General came to Bedman in Cornwal; they desire the House to take care for supplies for the General's Army, and that Forces might be sent to be in the Rear of the King's Army.

Sir Peter Osborn, and Sir Thomas Fanshaw for de∣serting the Parliament, whereof they were Mem∣bers, were discharged of their Offices, which were conferred upon others.

A party of the Lord Robert's Brigade was sent to pursue Greenvile and his Army, which was about 3000 strong, and fell upon him at Lestithiel in Cornwal, killed divers of Greenvile's men, and took many Prisoners.

The General took in Foy, a Haven, and place of importance with several ships there, and in all 17 pieces of Ordnance, and summoned the Coun∣trey to come in to his assistance.

By Letters from the Lord Inchequin, Lord Bro∣hale, and Burchet, from Ireland, they certify the Parliament, That they had thrust the Rebels out of most part of the Port-towns in Munster, that many considerable places there have declared for the Parlia∣ment, and that those Lords have 12000 men in Arms for the Parliaments service: they desire some sup∣plies, and send over a Declaration of the Prote∣stants there against the cessation.

The City of London petitioned that obstructions in * Justice might be removed, that Delinquents might be proceeded against speedily, and that the City debts might be paid out of Delinquents Estates.

General Hastings for the King sent out a party to relieve Wink field Manor, besieged by the Earl of Denbigh, and Sir John Gell; who marched out with 500 Horse, sent them lately by Sir William Waller, fell upon the Enemy, killed many of them, and took 150 Prisoners.

The Earl of Calender with some of the Scots forces, took in Hartlepoole, in the Bishoprick of Durham, and Stockton, places of importance for the Parliament, and another party of the Scots un∣der Sir John Meldrum, besieged Leverpoole in Lan∣cashire.

The French Ambassadour sent a Letter to the * Speaker, wherein he acknowledged that the Parli∣ament at Westminster was the Parliament of Eng∣land, and informed, that he had a Message to them from the King his Master: this was referred to the Committee concerning the Dutch Ambassadours.

The Commons gave 150 l. gratuity to the Go∣vernour of Lyme, and some provision of money, formerly ordered for Glocester, was transferred to Plymouth, which was ill taken by Colonel Massey.

Several Ordinances past for giving power to Committees in several Counties, and the Irish Re∣monstrance was permitted to be printed.

Commissary Copley was inlarged upon bail.

A Committee of the Lawyers of the House were ordered to consider of the plea of the Archbishop upon the Act of Oblivion, and to report their opi∣nions to the House.

Captain Moulton did some service for the Parlia∣ment in Pembrokeshire.

The Earl of Antrim landed in the North of Scotland with 2500 Irish, and the Marquess of Ar∣gile went to resist them with a considerable Army.

General Leven advanced toward Newcastle, to joyn with the Earl of Calender in besieging that City.

Page  94 Colonel Massey having drawn out his Forces a∣gainst Berkley Castle, Colonel Myn with about 700 of the King's Forces entred Glocestershire, and be∣gan to spoil the Countrey, and to streighten Glo∣cester. *

Massey wheeled about, and fought with them, slew Colonel Myn, and about 100 of his men, and Lieutenant Colonel Mercy; and took one Colonel, four Majors, divers inferiour Officers, and about 300 common Souldiers. Of his part Colonel Hartley was shot in the Arm, some others woun∣ded, but not above three men slain.

Orders were made concerning relief to be sent to Ireland, and for supplies of the Earl of Man∣chester's Army, and the Forces of Sir William Wal∣ler.

Colonel Middleton sent up to the Parliament from Sarum many Copes, Surplices, Tippets, Hoods, Plate, and the Picture of the Virgin Ma∣ry, taken in the Minster there, other Relicks being divided amongst the Souldiers.

Colonel Doddington with a party of the King's Forces came to Dorchester, and was repulsed by Major Sydenham.

The Commons ordered 250 l. out of the Lord Capel's Woods to the Window of Colonel Meldrum, slain in their service, and 50 l. to another like Widow.

They gave power to Waller for exchange of Pri∣soners, except such as had been Parliament men, and some others.

A party of about 1600 from Oxford came to sur∣prize Sir William Waller's Forces at Abington, but were repulsed, and Sir Richard Grimes, and some others of them slain, and about 40 taken Priso∣ners.

The three Generals, and the Committeeresiding with them had a meeting, and consultation how to dispose of their forces for the service of the Parlia∣ment, and agreed upon several considerable things, and concluded, That if any of the three Armies should be in any distress, upon notice thereof, all the others should come in to their assistance.

The Parliament in Scotland voted the Earl of Montross, and other Lords taking part against * them, to be traitours, and confiscated their E∣states.

The King being joyned with the Lord Hopton, and Prince Maurice, followed General Essex into Cornwal, and drove away all the Cattel, and took away all the Provisions to streighten the Parlia∣ments Army.

The Parliament ordered Lieutenant General Middleton with the 3000 Horse now with him, to march with all speed to the assistance of the Lord General, and 4000 Horse more to be sent speedi∣ly after him, but it was too late.

Upon the motion of the Assembly of Divines, a day was appointed for publick humiliation, to im∣plore the assistance of God, for the prosperous un∣dertaking of the Lord General.

Divers of the County of Lincoln were desirous that Colonel King might be restored to his Com∣mands in that Countrey.

Colonel Hastings coming to plunder some Car∣riers at Belgrave, was beaten back with losse by a party from Leicester.

The Earl of Calender took Gate-side, and blockt up Newcastle on that side, beating back a party of * the Garrison that sallied out upon him, and Gene∣ral Leven marched towards him.

Sir Thomas Middleton and Sir William Brereton took about 320 Horse of Prince Rupert's Regiment, 60 Prisoners, many Arms, and much Pillage.

Colonel Ashton took 200 of the Earl of Derby's Horse near Preston.

Letters came from the Lord General from Lesti∣thiel in Cornwal, and in them a Letter inclosed from the King to the Lord General dated Aug. 6. with another Letter from Prince Maurice, and the * Earl of Brainford the King's General dated Aug. 9. and another Letter from the Lord Hopton, and most of the King's chief Officers, to the Lord General.

The King's Letter was with more than ordinary mildness, inviting the General to join with him in that which is both their aims, to make the Kingdom happy, and to ingage the King to him in the highest degree, and if any shall oppose them, to make them happy against their wills, and promiseth great re∣wards to him and his Army.

The Letters from the others were to perswade the General to embrace His Majestie's offer, and that if he would come and treat with them, he should be as safe as in his own Tent, and that a Committee of both parties might be nominated to treat of those matters.

The General's answer was, that he was trusted by * the Parliament to fight, and not to treat, and that he would not break the trust reposed in him, to treat with∣out their consent.

The Parliament ordered thanks to be returned to the Lord General for his care and fidelity, and supplies to be made for his Army.

The Assembly of Divines communicated to the * Parliament a Letter sent to them from the Kirk of Scotland, lamenting that Church government was not yet settled.

Colonel Middleton joyning with the forces under Sir Anthony Ashley Cooper, Colonel Jepthson, and others marched to Wareham in Dorsetshire, and su∣riously assaulting one of the Out-works, beat the Enemy into the Town, and they rendered it upon terms, and 300 of the Garrison undertook to serve the Parliament against the Rebels in Ireland.

A party of the Enemy being quartered about Bisseter in Oxfordshire, Captain Ennis met with them, and both parties fought desperately. Cap∣tain Ennis killed one that charged him furiously, and divers others of the King's party were killed and taken Prisoners: after this they went to Bostal House, where the Garrison sallying out upon them were beaten back with loss.

Letters from the General certified, that he had sent a party under Colonel Beere and Colonel Shef∣field against Greenvile, who was 1600 strong in Foot, and 300 Horse, and 5 Drakes; that they had routed a party of his forces, and taken divers Officers, and 80 Men, and many Horse.

Welbeck House was surrendred to the Earl of Manchester.

Mr. Darley a Member of the House, was released from his imprisonment in Scarborough Castle.

A Letter from the Lord Inchequin to the King was read in the House, wherein he declares his reso∣lution to oppose the Irish Rebels, and to defend Munster from them, and beseecheth His Majesty to call in his Proclamation, wherein he terms them his Subjects, and to proclaim them (as indeed they are) blood-thirsty and cruel Rebels.

The Assembly had leave to debate the whole matter of the Ordinance, for Ordination of Mini∣sters, and for settling the government of the Church. One who attended that Debate, the Question being there propounded to be put that the government by Presbytery is Jure Divino, spake to that Question in the Assembly, to this effect. *

Mr. Prolocutor,

I might blush to speak in this reverend Assembly upon the question now in debate before you, had I not, by the honour of being one of your Members, seen your can∣dour Page  95 to others, and observed you to be most able to give satisfaction to any scruples here, and to enable such as I am to satisfy objections abroad, whereof I have met with some, your Question (it seems) not being under secrecy.

It is said, Sir, That this Question is very large and comprehensive, and they instance upon the terms of it, Government, Church, Presbyteries, and Jure Di∣vino; all which, they say, are of various significati∣ons, and your meaning by them not easie to be under∣stood.

The word Government you well know, Sir, is proper for the guidance of a Ship, so Cicero useth it, Et si in ipsa gubernatione, negligentia Navis est eversa. And so in Plutarch 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉, is the act of steering a Ship. And the Greek word 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉, from whence some fetch our English word Government, hath the same sense.

All take it for the prudent and well ordering and managing of persons and affairs, that men may live well and happily, and this I also take to be your sense in the word Government.

The word Church I confess admits more variety of interpretations, and I must not wast so much of your time, nor is it needfull, to persons of your great learn∣ing to reckon them.

As sometimes it is taken in the large sense of all Believers, and sometimes in the sense of every particular Congregation of God's people, and of Be∣lievers in a Nation, and you know the Greek Poet takes 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉 for Meetings of Mirth or Jollity.

But, to take the word in the sense wherein it was first introduced by the Popish Clergy, I am sure, will not be admitted by you.

They used indeed many Canting Expressions, as Ecclesiastical and Lay, Spiritual and Temporal, Church and State, and the like; and all were to make a distinction between themselves, and other men, that they might be accounted more holy, and as a distinct Nation in the Midst of the Nation; to bring more reverence and privilege, and money to them, than otherwise they could obtain.

Some would say of the Puritans, that they used a kind of Canting language, to bring them into the more scorn. I am sure, the imputation is more just upon the Popish Clergy; who by this canting would ex∣clude all others but themselves to be of the Church of Christ, and exalt themselves above their Brethren.

Whereas doubtless, every one though never so much (as they term him) a Lay-man, is as much a Member of the Church (if he be a Believer) as they that wear Cooles, or Hoods, or Canonical Coats, or Tippets.

But I suppose you mean by Government of the Church, the ordering and ruling of Matters and Per∣sons having relation to the worship of God in the meet∣ings of his people in the Church, or in things belonging thereunto, which by some are called Spiritual Mat∣ters.

Thereupon it is objected by some that Government being a Civil thing, cannot be exercised about things that are Spiritual; Government is onely external, and Spiritual things are onely internal, not capable of be∣ing ordered by any but the 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉, the great Knower of Hearts, and are become the power of Government of Men.

But this Notion may go too far perhaps, I hope to be informed by your learned Debates, to a clearer under∣standing of it, and shall pass to the next Term of the Question, Presbytery.

This word, they say, was unknown till of late in the sense many do now use it; that among the Jews it was the highest honour and dignity given to the Members of their Great Sanhedrim; and therefore is not now so properly to be attributed to the Rulers of every small Congregation: I am none of those, Mr. Prolocutor, who except against the Presbyterian Government, I think it hath a good Foundation, and hath done much good in the Church of Christ.

But, Sir, whether this Form of Government be Jure Divino or not, may possibly admit of some dispute, and whether it be now requisite for you to declare that it is so.

If the meaning be that it is Jure Divino Ecclesia∣stico, then the question will be raised of the Magistrate's imposing Forms, and upon Mens Consciences, for then this will be the Magistrate's Imposition Jure Divino Ecclesiastico.

But if the meaning be Jure Divino Absolute, this is more than an imposing by the Magistrate; it is the precept of God, and they are in a sad condition, both Magistrates and People, who are not under this Go∣vernment.

But it is objected that no form of Government it Jure Divino in this or that particular, but in the gene∣ral onely, Let all things be done decently and in or∣der. A Government is Jure Divino, but whether this or that Government, whether Presbytery, Epis∣copacy, Independency, or any other Form of Govern∣ment be Jure Divino or not, whether there be a Pre∣script, Rule, or express Command of the Holy Scrip∣ture, for any of these particulars will not be admitted by many men, as a clear thing.

It may be therefore not unworthy your Consideration, whether to give occasion for these Disputes or not, if you shall think fit at this time to forbear to declare your Judgments in this Point, the truth nevertheless will continue the same, and not wronged thereby.

If this Government be not Jure Divino, no opinion of any Council can make it to be what it is not; and if it be Jure Divino, it continues so still, although you do not declare it to be so.

I therefore humbly submit it, Sir, to your grave Judgments, whether it be not better at this time, when Disputes upon such Subjects as these, are too apt to be raised, to avoid giving occasion for them, which will but retard that Settlement of Government that is desi∣red; and high time it were done.

And that you may be pleased to present your Judg∣ments to the Parliament, that the Government of the Church by Presbyteries is most agreeable to the word of God, and most fit to be settled in this Kingdom, or in what other expressions, you may much better know than I, it is fit to Cloath your Questions; and I hope you may soon have a desired Issue.

The Ordinance passed for a Council of War to be held for punishment of Delinquents, and Arti∣cles annexed to it; and it was ordered to be pro∣claimed in London, and in all Counties.

Goring, Langdale, and Mackworth, appeared on the borders of Scotland, with 4000 Horse, and 4000 Foot, which caused the Parliament there to send 5000 Men to the borders, and to take care of their defence.

Divers of the propositions for a Peace were pas∣sed, * and the House sent to the City, that if they de∣sired to have any thing inserted in the Propositions, they would be willing to receive it: which was kindly taken by the City.

Macquere, and Mac Mahon, with a Steel-saw cut asunder the door of their Chamber, swam over the Tower-ditch, and escaped away; the Parliament ordered 100 l. to any that should bring either of them alive or dead.

They ordered Waller to march into the West, and past a new Ordinance for the Excise.

General Leven came also before Newcastle; he, and Calender got possession of the Bridge, and most of the inhabitants of the lower Town fled to the high Town for shelter; Leven summoned 3000 Page  96 Countreymen to come in with Spades, Mat∣tocks, &c.

The Earl of Warwick wrote that he had sent pro∣visions by Sea for the Lord General's Army.

The Lord Mayor and Aldermen presented their desires to the Parliament, to be inserted in the propositions for Peace.

The Besiegers made a breach in Basing-house, and took some Prisoners of the Garrison.

The Earl of Manchester had Bozer-house surren∣dred to him upon Articles.

An association was past for Wilts, Dorset, So∣merset, * Devon and Cornwal, and the Earls of Nor∣thumberland; Pembroke and Salisbury, Lord Roberts, Lord Bruce, and the Knights and Burgesses serving for those Counties, had power, any eight of them, to appoint Colonels and other Officers, and to raise moneys, &c.

The Commons ordered some prizes unduly ta∣ken to be restored to the owners.

A party of Prince Rupert's forces were fallen upon by some of the Lancaster forces, and of the Earl-of Manchester, who slew 30, and took 100 of the Prince's men prisoners.

Middleton encountred a party of the King's for∣ces in Somersetshire, took about 200 Horse, one Colonel, divers inferiour Officers, and 38 com∣mon Souldiers, he wrote also that the King's Army was in such want of provisions that a peny loaf was there sold for six pence.

The General's Army and the King's often faced one another; the General's men took a Captain and some inferiour Officers, and 48 common Soul∣diers of Sir Richard Greenvile's own Troop.

It was certified by Letters, that Sir Francis Dod∣dington meeting an honest Minister upon the way near Taunton, asked him who art thou for, Priest? who answered, for God and his Gospel: whereupon Doddington shot the Minister to death.

The Parliament ordered Commissions of Oyer and Terminer to be executed, and appointed Mr. Hoyle, one of their Members, to be Lord Mayor of York, till the next day of election.

The Committee of Sussex complained against Colonel Apsley one of them.

The Lord Ogle, and Colonel Huddleston fell up∣on Colonel Doddington near Lathom-house, and worsted him, till Colonel Shuttleworth came in to Doddington's assistance, with some of the Parlia∣ments forces, and took 50 Horse, 40 Prisoners, and routed the rest; among the Prisoners was the Lord Ogle, Colonel Huddleston, and other Officers.

Brereton and Middleton faced Chester, out of which Garrison Colonel Marrow issued, and fell upon them, but was slain in the fight, and divers of his men killed and taken.

The next morning Prince Rupert drew forth two of his best Regiments of Horse, and a party of Foot, fell upon Brereton and Middleton, but they were beaten back to Chester, many of his men kil∣led and taken; and in both these fights they certi∣fie that 400 of the Enemy were killed and taken.

Middleton took thirty horse of one of the King's Convoys near Bristol.

The Commons took order touching the trade of Fishing at Yarmouth, and a payment to be made by Fishers.

Six Troups of the Protestants in Ireland routed * fifteen Troups of the Rebels, and had many mira∣culous successes against them, the Parliament took care for supply of them.

The Rebels in Ʋlster with an Army of 22000, intended to have massacred all the English and Scots there, but the Lord Monroe with 14000 Protestants fought with them, wholly dispersed, and killed, and took many thousands of them, and Cattel, and other Provision for a month, which the Re∣bels left behind them, and whereof the Protestants then were in great want.

The Commissioners of the Court-martial met, and had a List of all the Prisoners, which they trans∣mitted to the House for their direction.

Colonel Sands besieged Pomfret Castle, and took of the Garrison forty Horse and many Cattel.

Letters from the General certifie, that Aug. 21. * the King's Army drew up near to the General in Battalia, who sent out a forlorn hope, and a party of horse and foot to second them, the forlorn fired, and retreated to the reserve, and they also charged the Enemy, killed many, and forced the rest to retreat; and the Lord General kept the Field that night.

That the next morning the Enemy appeared a∣gain, and was beaten back by the Parliaments for∣ces, who behaved themselves with very great cou∣rage, doing great execution, but the certain num∣ber of the slain on either side was not known, that he hoped Middleton was on his way towards him.

The House ordered a Letter of thanks to be written to his Excellence, and to assure him that he should not want their utmost assistance.

The Commissioners of the Great Seal ordered to grant Commissions of Sewers.

Middleton fell on a party of the King's forces in Lancashire, upon the first charge of them by Colo∣nel Booth, they fled, and were totally routed; the Lord Byron, and the Lord Mollineux escaped by the darkness of the night, divers of them were killed, and many inferior Officers and others taken.

By Ordinance the Wardship of the Lord Brook was settled upon his Mother.

Divers Gentlemen and Officers who were of the Earl of Newcastle's Army, came into the Parli∣ament, desiring to make their compositions.

The Commons being informed that the Prince * Elector was landed at Graves-end, appointed a Committee to attend him with salutations from the House, and to consider of his reception at White-hall prepared for him.

An Ordinance for liberty for Foreigners to trade here, provided that they bring no Ordnance, Arms nor Ammunition, which shall be employed against the Parliament.

Divers of Worcestershire, offered to raise forces for the Parliament, and an Ordinance passed for that purpose.

Middleton took a Troup of the King's horse near Exeter.

The Prince Elector was brought to White-hall with great respect by a Committee of Parliament.

September 1644. Letters from the General to the Parliament, inform, that they had the best in ma∣ny Skirmishes, and acknowledge God's goodness in delivering them and the whole Army from a Conspiracy of the Enemy, to blow up two of his Waggons with 60 Barrels of Powder in them.

That when they thought to have effected this de∣sign, they drew up their whole Body towards that part of the Parliaments Army, expecting the blow∣ing up of his Magazine; upon which they intended to fall upon his forces, and not to have given quar∣ter * to any of them.

This Plot was so closely carried, and so near ef∣fecting, that in each of the Waggons, an Engine was placed to doe the work, the ends of them fast∣ned to lighted Matches, which were burnt within an inch of the Wild-fire when it was discovered, and the other Match was burnt to the very neck of the Engine, where it was to give fire, and there the Coal of it self went out.

Page  97 The Engine was sent up, and shewed to the Par∣liament, by which the strangeness of it, and the miraculous deliverance from that Plot, appeared.

The Letters conclude,

Upon this Letter the House ordered, that the Earl of Manchester should send a party of Horse and Foot for the assistance of the General, but nei∣ther any from him, who was indeed furthest off, nor of Waller's Forces (who some thought did not make much hast in this business) nor Middleton, nor any other of the Parliaments Forces, but his own Army, came up to give him any the least assist∣ance.

Liberty was given to Delinquents, who were gone beyond Sea, to return hither to make their compositions with the Parliament.

A Messge of Complement was sent to the Prince Elector, and likewise to acquaint his High∣ness, * that the Parliament conceived that his Residence at this time in Foreign parts might be of greater ad∣vantage to the Publick.

Indeed the Parliament were jealous, considering his near relation to the King, and the engage∣ments of his Brothers in the King's Service, that the Prince Elector would do no good offices for the Parliament here.

The Archbishop was again brought to the Bar of the Lords House, where he made his last general Defence to the Charge against him, and a day was appointed for the Commons to make their reply. *

In the Archbishop's Diary under his own hand are passages of his being offered to be made a Car∣dinal, which he said that he could not suffer, till Rome were other than it is.

The Prince Elector sent a Message to the Parlia∣ment, That he held himself much obliged to them for * their former favours; that his coming was to express that in Person which he had often done by Letters, of his affection to them, and the Cause which they main∣tain; and to take off such Jealousies as the Actions of his nearcst Kindred, or ill Offices of the Enemy might by his absence cast upon him.

That his wishes are constant for their good success, for a thorough Reformation, and his desires are to be ruled and advised by their grave Counsels, and would be ready to serve them.

Sir William Brereton's Letters informed, that he sent Colonel Jones with a party, who fell upon 2000 Horse of Prince Rupert's about Malpasse took 140 Horse, two Majors, and divers inferiour Of∣sicers * and Souldiers; slew Colonel Baines, and Co-Ionel Connyers in the place, with three Majors, and 100 Common Souldiers, routed the whole Brigade, and forced them to flie back to Chester, and Sir Marmaduke Langdale was wounded in the fight.

This Colonel Jones was a Barrister at Law, a Gentleman tam Marte, quam Mercurio, and shews that the undertaking of a Civil Profession doth not disable, but rather further a man in Martial Af∣fairs when there is occasion of trial.

Major Dowet marching with a party of the Parli∣aments forces in Somer setshire, was set upon by Captain Poulton, whom he took Prisoner, with his Lieutenant, thirty Horse, and twenty Souldiers, and routed all the party.

Colonel Sands for the Parliament besieged Pom∣fret Castle, and Sir Thomas Fairfax was before Hem∣sley Castle, where he was shot into his Shoulder, and well again.

The Commons took order to reconcile some pri∣vate differences between some Majors General, and the Associations under them.

Colonel Purefoy, and Colonel Boswell came up with Forces, and some Ordance to assist the Be∣siegers of Banbury.

Sir William Waller lay still at Farnham near Ba∣sing-house.

The Commissioners for the Court-marshal kept a particular Fast-day, to pray to God for his direc∣tions to them in that business.

A Committee was appointed to meet with the Common Council of London, and to advise with them touching the business of Farthings.

Letters from Sir William Waller desire the sup∣plies * allotted to him, may be speedily sent, and the forces that are to joyn with him, he expresseth his forwardness to assist the Lord General, and calls the God of Heaven to witness, it is not his fault, and wisheth the blood and infamy may rest on the Heads of them that lay obstructions in his way, averring that if money cannot be had, he will march without it.

That he received a Letter from Lieutenant Ge∣neral Middleton, who is advanced as far as he can to relieve the Lord General, but he hears there is * a very great party of the King's Army drawn out to meet him, and yet keep the Lord General at a Bay. That he desires nothing more under God, than to be able to march, and no fault shall be found in him.

By Letters from Plymouth the House were certi∣fied touching the making of Provisions for the Lord General's Army, and that many Prisoners had ta∣ken the Covenant, and freely undertook to serve the Parliament against the Irish Rebels.

That at Lestithiel the duty hath been so constant and various, the Enemy so near and vigilant, that we cannot Muster; we have sick men sent hither, who if not timely sent, do die soon after they come here, fresh Diet being their onely cure.

The Chirurgeons of the Army are ill stored with Provisions, some not having to the value of 10s.

The Enemy increaseth daily upon our quarters, the loss of Foy-harbour, is to our infinite disadvan∣tage, no ships being able to ride out of the command of their Guns. The Lord Admiral made a gallant at∣tempt to have regained the Harbour, but extremity of weather would not suffer him to land one man.

Major Skippon's Glove and Sleeve was shot through, and his Buff in two places, and he had no harm.

Additional Forces being come to Sir William Waller. he advanced with them Westward, to joyn with Middleton and Massey, to make up a Body to relieve the Lord General, and 4000 Foot, and 3000 Horse from the Earl of Manchester, were up∣on their march to assist the General, but all of them had lost too much time.

Letters from the General informed, that the King with all his power drew out upon him, that he sent out several parties that Skirmished with them, at length a great party of the Horse being ingaged, they slew many of the Enemy, and forced * their passage through the King's Army and through the numerousness of the Enemy could hardly re∣treat, so that the Foot being left to stand upon their own guard in a place of advantage, there was a Parley enter'd into, by which it was agreed, that Page  98 Major Skippon, who fought like a Lion, with the Foot, should march away, with the loss of some Ordnance and Ammunition, and have a safe con∣duct for 6000 Foot to Dorchester.

By this and several other Letters we may observe how the Parliament Officers sought to lessen this defeat received by them, and to conceal the full truth thereof from the Parliament, which is usual with some to lessen their defeats, and to inlarge their Victories.

On the King's part it was said that General Es∣sex with most of his chief Commanders deserted their whole Army, and saved themselves by flight by Sea.

That their Horse, pretending to Skirmish, got beyond the King's Army, and so escaped by this way, and left the Foot to shift for themselves.

That the Foot were totally dispersed, and dis∣armed, and submitted to the King's mercy, who gave them their lives, and took all their Ord∣nance, Arms, and Ammunition; and thus gave a total defeat to the Parliament's main Army.

By this we may see the great difference in rela∣tions * of Martial performances, always according to the particular interest of the Relatours; and it is certain, that in a Fight, the next man can hard∣ly make a certain relation of the Actions of him that was next in place to him.

For in such a hurry and smoak as is in a Fight, and when a man scarce takes notice of any thing but what relates to his own immediate safety, it is hard to give any clear account of particular passa∣ges, but the general will make way for it self by the consequence and issue.

Therefore for better satisfaction, I shall give an * impartial Relation of that Action in Cornwal, nei∣ther favouring nor censuring the one side or the other, as it ought to be the temper of all faithfull Historians.

The King marched after Essex who was gone Westward, and, by the overruling counsel of the Lord Roberts, was perswaded into the narrow noose of Cornwal.

The King came to Liskerd, eight miles from Lestithiel where Essex was, and was there encom∣passed by the King and Prince Maurice at Bocon∣nock, Sir Richard Greenvile at Bodmyn, and Sir Jacob Ashley at Hule.

The King's party were desirous to fight, but up∣on consultation, it was held more advisable to strave the Parliament forces, to which end Goring with a party of Horse, and Sir Tho. Basset with 1500 Foot, were sent Westward to stop all Provi∣sions that way, and to streighten Essex, by keeping his Horse and Foot close together.

Essex drew his Cannon and Baggage towards Foy, but in those bad ways his Carriages stuck, and they were much hindered by it.

Sir Will. Belfore with 2300 horse brake through the King's Quarters, and got to Saltash, and from thence to Plymouth.

The King pursues his advantage against Essex his foot with great wisedom and gallantry, and they made a stout resistance, but being overpow∣red by the King's forces, which lay round about them, and then the Country rising in great num∣bers upon them, and killing divers of their men in their Quarters.

Essex quits his own Forces, and with divers of his chief Officers makes by Sea for Plymouth, lea∣ving Skippon with the Foot, and a few horse behind him.

Some came by designe to the Parliament forces, intimating that the King was willing to admit of a Treaty with them, and it was great wisdome, and gallantry in the King, rather to defeat them with their own Consents, than to hazard the doubtful tryal of a Battle for it.

Skippon calls together his field Officers to a Coun∣cil of War, and being more a Soldier, than an O∣ratour, * spake plainly to them to this purpose.

Gentlemen,

You see our General, and many of our chief Officers, have thought fit to leave us, and our horse are got away, we are left alone upon our defence; that which I pro∣pound to you, is this, that we having the same courage as our horse had, and the same God to assist us, may make the same tryal of our fortunes, and endeavour to make our way through our enemies, as they have done; and account it better to dye with honour, and faithfulness, than to live dishonourable.

Few of the Council of War did concur with him, but were generally for a treaty with the King, al∣ledging the advantages the horse had, to break through the enemy, which the foot had not, and that the General was then with them, and added courage to his men.

Whereas the foot were now more dismayed by his going away, and having few or no horse to as∣sist them; and other arguments were alledged to accept of a treaty, and accordingly Commissioners on both parts were appointed.

For the King were Prince Maurice, General Ru∣then, and the Lord Digby; for the Parliament were Colonel Berkley, Colonel Wichcotes, and Colonel Butler, who agreed upon Articles, Sept. 2. to this effect.

To deliver up to the King all their Artillery, with * all their bag and baggage, no person under a Corporal to wear any kind of weapon, all Officers above, to wear onely sword and pistols, there were delivered up 40 pieces of brass Ordnance, 200 barrels of Powder, Match and Bullet proportionable, 9000 Arms for horse and foot.

Some of the private Soldiers listed themselves in the King's service, and some of the rest as they marched forth, being pillaged by the King's Soldi∣ers, Skippon rode up to the King, who stood to see them pass by, and told him, it was against his honour and justice, that his articles should not be performed, that his Soldiers did pillage some of the Parliaments Soldiers, contrary to the Articles, and desired his Ma∣jesty to give order to restraine them. The King there∣upon gave a more strict command for the punctu∣al observation of the Articles, and Skippon with his men marched to Poole.

We may take notice by this chiefly, and by seve∣ral other passages, of the uncertain issues of War, and of the overruling hand of providence in Mar∣tial affairs, as much, if not more than in other matters.

It was but a few weeks before, that Essex and Waller with two great Armies, were in pursuit of the King, who could scarce find a way to avoid them, and the Parliaments power and expectation was far above that of the King.

Now the dye of War is turned another way, the Parliaments Army is defeated, disarmed and dispersed, and the King becomes Victorious.

This did much affright some of the Parlia∣ment party, and caused several discourses among them.

Divers who were no friends to Essex inveighed * against him, as one that had quitted his Command, and deserted his Army in the greatest danger, others excused and commended him for this action, by which means onely he could reserve himself, his Officers and Souldiers to doe the Parliament fur∣ther service.

Page  99 Others condemned Waller, Manchester and Middleton, for not hastning more to the assistance of the General, every one vented his own fancy and censure, but doubtless, he was a person of as much integrity, courage and honour, as any in his age; he was brought into this noose, by the wil∣fulness of others, and though his enemies took advantage against him upon it, yet many thought others to be more in fault than the General.

Letters from Scotland informed the Parliament that the Marquess of Argyle had taken 500 of the Rebels which came over with the Earl of Antrim to disturb the peace of that Kingdome.

The General having thoughts to come up to the Parliament, to give them a particular account of this unhappy action, and to excuse himself to the Parliament, they wrote to him, that they continue * fully satisfied that he was not wanting to use his utmost endeavours in that service, and were well assured of his fidelity, desiring him, to entertain no thoughts of dis∣content, or discouragement, but to go on in the mana∣ging of the VVar, Sir Will. Waller and other forces being ready to joyn with him.

The Commons took order for supplies of Cloaths and Arms for his Souldiers, and for the Earl of Manchester's marching towards him, and appoin∣ted a day of publick Humiliation.

The Sickness being at St. James's, the Parlia∣ment ordered the removal of the King's Children from thence to Whitehall.

Colonel William Strowde wrote to the House, that 300 men of the adjacent parts were come to him to serve the Parliament, and that he had sent from Wareham 1000 Arms to the Lord General.

A Committee of both Houses were sent to give entertainment to the Chancellour of Scotland, who was newly come to Town.

The Lord Roberts was made Governour of Ply∣mouth.

By Letters from Sir Thomas Middleton the House was informed, that Lieutenant Colonel Tyll, being sent by him, took Sir Thomas Gardiner the Recor∣der's Son, with his Officers, and forty of his Trou∣pers Prisoners, and the rest fled; that he also took two Colours, and four wayneload of Powder and Ammunition.

Lieutenant General Lesley fell upon the Forces * of Sir Philip Musgrave, and Colonel Fletcher in Westmorland, killed divers on the place, took above 100 Prisoners, two foot Colours, a Standard, and scattered the rest.

The King marched out of Cornwal, and sent a summons to Plymouth to be rendered to him, but they returned a positive answer in the negative.

Prince Rupter marched towards the King, but with a small force.

About 1500 of the King's foot out of several Garrisons mounted for Dragoons, by night mar∣ched towards Basing-house, Colonel Norton and Co∣lonel Morley took the Alarm, Norton charged them, and brake through them, but they with great cou∣rage wheeled about, and charged Norton's whole bo∣dy, who retreated unto Colonel Morley's Quarters.

In the mean time they got some supplies of Am∣munition and Provisions into the House; Norton and Morley faced them, but they would not fight, but retreated back again, and were pursued, and 150 of them killed and taken, one Major, with other in∣feriour Officers. Norton had a slight hurt in the hand, and lost but one man, but the house was relieved.

This party of the King's gave an Alarm to Brown at Abington, who shortly after gave an Alarm to them at Oxford, and brought away 40 of their fat Cattel, Salt, and other provisions.

Sir Rich. Greenvile attempted thrice by Storm to enter Plymouth, but was repulsed.

Middleton routed Prince Rupert in his passage towards the King, with seven hundred horse, took divers of his Officers, and about ninety common Souldiers prisoners.

Brereton routed the Earl of Derby, coming to relieve Leverpoole and killed and took five hundred of them, and put the rest to flight.

An Ordinance passed the Commons, for Ordi∣nation of Ministers, and was sent to the Assembly for them to add Ministers Names who should give Ordination.

A difference was between the Lord Grey, and the Association of Leicestershire.

The King sent a Summons to Plymouth, That God * having given him Victory over the Rebels, he desired to reduce his people by Acts of Grace: and promised especial favour to Plymouth, if they would render the Town to him, and that they should have no Garrison.

A Letter was likewise sent at the same time from the Lord Digby to the Lord Roberts, Inviting him upon high Ingagements of Preferment, and Honour from the King, to surrender the Town up to him. But they prevailed neither with the Governour, nor with the Townsmen, but they all prepared for de∣fence; and the Enemy endeavouring the same day to storm the West-end of the Town, were repulsed with great loss; in which action the Seamen did gallant service.

The King's whole Army besieged the Town, but they having four thousand foot, and eight hun∣dred horse, did not much fear their Besiegers; but the Lord Roberts wrote for some supplies, which were ordered for them.

A Letter from the King was brought to the Par∣liament, * declaring his Affections for Peace; and concluding, that God had given him a late Victory, and therefore he desires them to consider of his long rejected Message from Evesham; which was for peace, but not till this time brought to the Parliament.

The Parliament appointed a day to take this into consideration, and ordered all Officers and Souldiers to repair to their Colours, on pain to be proceeded against by the Commissioners for Mar∣tial Law.

Mr. Hoyle was put into Sir Peter Osborn's Office, and Mr. Salway into Sir Thomas Fanshaw's place in the Exchequer, and several Judges went into the Counties which were quiet, to keep Assizes, and to execute the Commissions of Oyer and Terminer.

Colonel Cromwell was sent with two thousand horse to meet Prince Rupert, coming to relieve Bandury, but Colonel Massey had before prevented the Prince's coming.

The Irish Rebels that landed in Scotland, were beaten into the Mountains by the Earl of Argyle, and L. Gourdon.

Upon debate of the King's Letter it was held not to be a sufficient acknowledgment of the Parliament, and therefore laid by: Yet the House went on to compleat the Propositions for Peace; and a day was appointed for the bringing in the Names of such Delinquents as should be excepted from par∣don.

Divers Ministers of London presented a Petition * to the Parliament, for dispatch of the Directory of Worship, and settling of pure Discipline and Govern∣ment according to the word of God; and complain∣ed of the Schisms in the Church.

The Petitioners had thanks from the House, and the Committee of Lords and Commons appointed to confer with the Assembly, to endeavour to re∣concile some Differences among them, and to find out a way, how tender Consciences may be born with∣all, so far as may stand with the peace of the Kingdom, and the word of God.

Page  100 The Assembly named 23 Ministers to give Or∣dination, who were passed.

The Commons considered of the Propositions for peace, the L. Macquire and Macmahon, who escaped out of the Tower, were again apprehended by the Lieutenant of the Tower, and Sir John Clotworthy; and upon a Report from a Committee of Lawyers, it was ordered, That they should be tried by a Commis∣sion of Oyer and Terminer, and not by Martial Law.

The French Agent lay at the same house where * Macquire and Macmahon were taken, and had a chief hand in their escape, and opposed the Offi∣cers searching in that house for papers, &c. because he lodged there.

But a Committee of both Houses were appointed to search there, and did so, notwithstanding the Agent's pretences.

A Committee of Lawyers was appointed to meet daily about the Tryal of the Archbishop, till the same should be dispatcht.

The Parliament ordered all the Forces of the Earl of Manchester, and of Sir William Waller, to joyn together, and advance into the West.

The Ordinance passed for the Militia in Wor∣cestershire.

About eighty of the Leicester horse in convoy of some Carriers, were set upon by 120 of Colonel Hastings his men, but the 80 routed and dispersed the 120, killed 8, and took 60 of them prisoners, and store of Arms.

By Letters from Sir Thomas Middleton, it was certified, That he having taken Mountgomery Ca∣stle, was forced to retreat upon the coming of the * King's Forces thither, who again besieged the Ca∣stle with five thousand men; and Middleton being joyned with Brereton, Sir John Meldrum, and Sir William Fairfax, in all about three thousand, they marched to relieve the Castle, and were fought with by the Enemy, who came up gallantly a good while to push of Pike, and worsted the Parliament Horse:

Which so encouraged the King's Forces, that they shouted, and cryed, The Day is ours, the Day is ours; at which the Parliament Forces were so enraged, that they came on again with a fresh Charge, and wholly routed and put them to flight, took prisoners Major General Broughton, Colonel Sir Thomas Tilsley, Lieutenant Colonel Bludwell, Ma∣jor Williams, nine Captains, many inferiour Offi∣cers, and fifteen hundred common Souldiers.

Of the King's part were slain about three hun∣dred, and about five hundred wounded: Of the Parliament part were slain, Sir William Fairfax with eleven wounds, and Major Fitz Symons, and about forty common Souldiers, and about sixty wounded; the Lord Byron who commanded the King's Forces hardly escaped by the goodness of his horse.

Upon Letters from my Lord Roberts, both Hou∣ses took care for Supplies for Plymouth, and their other Western Garrisons.

The King came to Exeter, and gave order to re∣move all superfluous persons forth of the Town, and for the Country to bring in thither all their provisions.

About forty prisoners of quality were brought from Plymouth to London, and committed to Lam∣beth-house. After the Siege was raised before Ply∣mouth, and the King gone to Exeter, yet the Cor∣nish-men continued near the Town, to stop provi∣sions coming to them by Land, but were driven away again.

Many of the prisoners taken at Mountgomery, being willing to take the Covenant, and to serve against the Rebels in Ireland; the Parliament to avoid the inconvenience of many prisoners, con∣sented thereunto, and gave order for their trans∣portation.

The Commons came near to a conclusion of their Debate, touching the Propositions for peace.

Orders were sent to the Earl of Manchester, and Sir William Waller, to advance together with all expedition, to prevent the King's return back to Oxford, and took care for Supplies for them, and for the Lord General.

The Parliament sent thanks to Sir Thomas Mid∣dleton, Sir William Brereton, and Sir John Meldrum, for their good service at Mountgomery; and which was more acceptable, took order for Supplies for them; the Lord Cherbury, and Sir John Price, came in to the Parliament.

Massey fell upon a party of the King's, between Bristoll and Monmouth, took their Commander in chief, and ten others, and a hundred and sixty com∣mon Souldiers, two hundred Arms, and two pieces of Ordnance.

The King's Forces besieged Barnstable, which rendred to them upon conditions, which they af∣terwards broke, pillaged the Parliament's Soul∣diers, plundred the Town, executed the Major, and imprisoned many of the Inhabitants.

Colonel Ludlow took eighty of the King's Com∣missioners of Array in Somersetshire, and Captain Savile took twenty of Prince Rupert's men pri∣soners.

Sir Thomas Fairfax recovered of his Wound, and Sir H. Cholmly offered to surrender Scarborough * Castle to the Parliament, but now upon the news of the King's Victory in the West, he revictuals it again, and is again wholly for the King; where∣upon the Lord Fairfax sent Sir William Constable with a strong party to besiege the Castle.

Colonel Ware revolted from the Lord General in the West, to the King, and another Colonel quit∣ted his Post, and the Matters of that nature were referred to a Committee to be examined.

A Day was set apart by the Commons for recei∣ving private Petitions.

At Basing-house the Besiegers took an Outwork, a Captain, and twenty eight Souldiers, who de∣fended it.

At Banbury they made a Breach, and some of the Parliaments Souldiers endeavouring to enter, were beaten back by the Garrison.

Colonel Smith of Bucks escaped out of prison, and was retaken.

Letters from the Lord General informed, That the King was drawn from Exeter near Shaftsbury, where Sir William Waller was. That they would en∣deavour to prevent his coming to Bristoll, or back again to Oxford, and they desire that the Earl of Manchester may hasten to joyn with them.

The King took up a great number of horses in the Country as he passed, to the high distaste and prejudice of the Inhabitants; and his Majesty by this means mounted all his Foot, and made them Dragoons.

Many Gentlemen of Wales came in to the Parlia∣ment, and rendred themselves to Sir Thomas Mid∣dleton.

Sir William Brereton took more of the King's Forces near Chester.

Captain Swanley's Forces encreased in South-Wales, many of the Country coming in to him.

Colonel Leigh presented a Petition to the Com∣mons, * subscribed by four thousand Staffordshire men, praying, That the Differences between the Earl of Denbigh their General, and some of the Country might be reconciled, and the Earl sent down again a∣mongst Page  101 them. Upon delivery whereof, the Colonel made a long Harangue to the Commons, and all was referred to a Committee.

Colonel Butler suspected of miscarriage in the West, was sent up by the General to be examined.

The Order passed the Commons House there∣upon, for a select Committee to go along with the * Army, and to advise with the Council of War upon all Occurrences.

Colonel Kerle who revolted from the Parlia∣ment upon the loss of Bristoll, went out with a party near to Monmouth, to fetch provisions, and being full of Jollity and security, Colonel Massey fell upon them in the midst of their mirth, and sur∣prised them.

Kerle doubting that he should not have quarter, because he had revolted from the Parliament, to make some recompence, he undertook to bring Massey into Monmouth, and himself to march in the * front, which was concluded accordingly.

When they came to the Guards, they thinking them to be their own men, let down the Draw-bridge, and received them into the Town, who de∣manded it for the Parliament; at which the Gar∣rison was so amazed, that many of them fled away, and left their Arms, the rest called for quarter, and so the Town and Castle being of great conse∣quence, was reduced to the Parliament, with the loss of not above six men on both parties.

The new Sheriffs of London were presented at the Exchequer, by a Speech of Mr. Glyn the Recorder.

October, 1644. The Commons entred upon con∣sideration of electing new Members in the room of those who were dead, or expelled by Vote.

The Library belonging to the See of Canterbury, was given to Sion College.

The Ordinance for Ordination of Ministers passed both Houses.

The Popish party in Scotland submitted them∣selves, and the Lord Argyle pursued the Irish Re∣bels into the Highlands, whereupon the Earl of Calender returned again to the Leagure before Newcastle.

The Garrison there made many Sallies upon the Besiegers, and were beaten back with loss.

The Conmissioners of Array in Cumberland and Westmorland met to feast, and consult about rai∣sing more forces for the King, and the Country-people rose up against them, took forty of them prisoners, and sent them to General Lesley.

One Greenvile, a kinsman of Sir Richard Green∣vile, was perswaded into a Plot to betray Ply∣mouth to Sir Richard, but the Plot was discovered, and Mr. Greenvile executed: But the King ho∣noured Sir Richard with Title of Baron of Lesti∣thiel.

Waller sent out a party of two hundred horse to Evill, under Major Clutterbocke, who met a party of the King's forces, and took divers of them pri∣soners, and presently after, meeting another par∣ty, of about three hundred of the King's horse drawn up into a body, whose Commander came out from the head of his Troops singly; this cau∣sed Major Clutterbocke to do the like, and they two skirmished before their parties.

The King's forces seeing their Commander like∣ly to have the worst, came in hastily to his rescue, and slew Clutterbocke before his men came in, and they upon the loss of their Major were so discoura∣ged, that they wheeled about, and retreated from their Enemy.

The Commons set apart a day for redress of private Grievances, and gave much satisfaction to divers thereof.

Colonel Rosseter gave a blow to the King's for∣ces, about Newark.

Mr. Prynne, Mr. Bradshaw, and Mr. Newdigate, were appointed to be of Council for the State, a∣gainst Macquire, and Macmahon the Irish Rebels, at their Tryal appointed to be before Commis∣sioners of Oyer and Terminer.

The Commons voted in the Case of the Arch-bishop, * that his Council should be heard in point of Law, whether in the Charge against him, there be con∣tained any Treason? But that they ought not to speak to any exceptions therein, for matter or form.

Colonel Bliere laid down his Commission, and had leave to go beyond Sea, and part of his Ar∣rears paid.

The Militia of London desired the passing of an Ordinance, for the sending forth five Regiments of the City for a reserve of the Armies, and for supplies for them, which passed both Houses the same day.

A Declaration was agreed upon to be sent to the King of France, to excuse the business of the * search for Macquire, and Macmahon, in the house where the French Agent lay.

Essex, Manchester, and Waller, all took the field, to encounter the King's forces in their march to Oxford; and all Officers and Souldiers in London, were commanded forthwith to repair to their Colours.

Colonel Jepson's Garrison at Portsmouth was compleated to one thousand foot, and an hundred horse.

Chester was blocked up by Brereton.

A party of Colonel Hastings his men came to Loughborough on the Lord's-day, rode into the Church in Sermon-time, and would have taken away the Preacher out of the Pulpit, but the wo∣men rescued him, and proved then more valiant than their husbands, or Hastings his men.

An Ordinance was appointed to be brought in, for augmentation of the Means of Ministers, where their Maintenance was very small, and that to be out of Deans and Chapters Lands.

A party of the King's forces surprized and took in Crowland.

Colonel Hurrey who revolted from the Parlia∣ment, when Colonel Hampden was slain, and served the King, had now obtained his Majestie's Pass to go beyond Sea, and came to Sir William Waller to desire the like Pass from him, who refused to do it, but sent him up to the Committee of both Kingdoms.

The Counties of Norfolk and of Cambridge pe∣titioned for their security in the Earl of Manche∣ster's absence, and some assistance for the pay of his Army.

The Commons ordred that no Carter coming to London, should be pressed for a Souldier.

The Commons appointed to take in considera∣tion the Propositions for Peace, every day till they should perfect them.

Mr. Hoyle a Member of the House of Commons, was by general approbation chosen Lord Mayor of York, and took his place there.

A party of the King's from Skipton, fell upon Colonel Maleverer's quarters at Rippon, and took about twenty of his horse.

The Court Marshal condemned three men, one * Captain Syppins, for endeavouring to betray Gern∣sey; one Francis Pits, who was imployed by Sir Ri∣chard Leveson, to betray Russell-hall in Staffordshire, and William James a Foot-souldier, for running a∣way from his Colours.

Page  102 The Tryal of Macquire and Macmahon, was al∣tered, and ordered to be in the King's Bench, and Mr. Rolles with the others before named, appointed to be Council against them.

Sir Edward Hungerford and Sir Nevill Poole were sent down into Wiltshire for the service of that County.

Sir Henry Mildmay got an Order for his Salary, as Master of the Jewel-house to the King.

Colonel Hammond who killed Major Grey at Glou∣cester, for giving him the Lye, was referred to be tryed by the Council of War in the Lord General's Army.

Some of the King's Plate was ordered to be sold or pawned for 3000 l. for Abington and Reading forces, and that the Plate amongst the Regalia, which had Crucifixes or superstitious Pictures, should be disposed of for the Publick Service.

A Letter of Thanks ordred to Colonel Ceely Go∣vernour of Lyme.

All Governours of Forts and Garrisons were prohibited coming to London, unless sent by the General, or sent for by the Parliament, or Com∣mittee of both Kingdoms.

Sir Thomas Middleton took in Redcastle, in Wales, with the Lord Powys, three Captains, divers infe∣riour Officers, forty horse, two hundred Arms, and store of pillage.

Upon the Case of Colonel Warren, it was or∣dered, That no Officer who formerly received Pay from the State, and was afterwards taken by the Par∣liaments Forces in Arms against them, should be ex∣changed for other Prisoners.

Prince Rupert removed Sir Francis Hawley from being Governour of Bristoll, and turned out the Governour of Berkley Castle, and put an Irish Rebel in his place.

The Commons were very busie in providing Monies and other Supplies, for their Forces in Eng∣land and Ireland.

The Archbishop was brought to the Lord's * house, and his Council heard to the matter of Law.

The Swedish General Tortoison beat Gallas the Emperour's General, took all his Cannon and Bag∣gage, killed many of his Foot, and routed all the rest, and pursued his Horse to Willingborough.

A great fire in Oxford burnt up near a fourth part of the City, from one end of it to the other.

The City Brigade marched forth under the com∣mand of Sir James Harrington.

The Lord Herbert, Son to the Earl of Worcester, with fifteen hundred men, came against a Garri∣son of the Parliaments between Gloucester and Monmouth, and Colonel Massey coming to relieve them, routed the Lord Herbert's forces, killed fif∣ty, and took sixty prisoners, and good prize.

A Letter of Thanks was written to Massey, for all his good-Services.

Upon Major General Skippon's desire, the Cap∣tain was reprieved, who endeavoured to have be∣trayed Gernsey.

Doctor Bastwick's Wife had an Allowance or∣dered for her and her Husband's maintenance.

Colonel Harley, Sir Robert Harley's Son, was made Governour of Monmouth.

Relief was ordered to the well-affected Inhabi∣tants of Jersey.

An Ordinance passed for the preservation of Hyde-Park, and the Timber and Pales from spoil.

A party from Plymouth took in Saltashe.

Those before Basing-house sent for more supplies of men.

The Lords at a Conference gave their Reasons, why they thought not fit to agree to the Ordinance for selling the King's Plate; but the Commons adhered to their former Vote; and ordered 3000 l. out of the Earl of Thanet's Fine, for supply of the Forces of Berks and Oxon.

The Commons agreed upon all the Propositions for Peace, to be sent to the King, and took the City Propositions in debate, to be sent with the other.

The Forces of Sir Tho. Fairfax and Colonel Ros∣seter, blocked up Crowland.

Colonel Birch had an allowance for his repara∣tion of losses from the Parliament.

Sir Alexander Denton was ordered to be exchan∣ged for Sir John Norcot a Member of Parliament, and Judge Mallet was exchanged.

Many Orders were made touching foreign Ships staid here, and to do right in those cases.

The Commons debated the sending forth of new Writs, to choose new Members in the places of those who were dead, or expelled the House.

Duncannon a considerable Fort in Ireland yielded to the Parliament, and most of the Officers and Souldiers there took the Covenant.

Many Orders for Money, and Supplies for the Forces, and for all the Forces of the Parliament to joyn together, to hinder the King's march to Ox∣ford.

An Order for encouragement of the Officers and Workmen in the Mint.

Sir William Waller and the Earl of Manchester joyned together, and both of them wrote, That the King marched as if he intended to fight; and they desired some Supplies, which were sent to them.

The Parliament appointed a Day of Humilia∣tion and Prayer to God, for a blessing upon their For∣ces, now likely to engage in battel.

A price was set upon Coals, and a Woodmonger ordered to be Indicted for ingrossing of Coals, and the Admiral ordered to compel some Coal-ships at Harwich to come into the River Thames.

Sir John Holland had leave to stay in Holland for six Months.

Three thousand of the King's Forces besieged * Taunton, and the Governour Colonel Blake sent out a party who fell upon the Besiegers, killed and took many of them, whereof some Commanders.

Sir Hugh Cholmley set out some Vessels, which took some Coal-ships coming for London, and the Parliament ordered some Ships of War to lie on that Coast.

Some ships coming in, the Parliament gave order for the present payment of the Mariners.

The propositions for peace were agreed upon by the Commons.

A party of the King's coming to Beachly upon Severn, to fortifie there, Colonel Massey fell upon them, slew seventy of them on the place, took about a hundred and seventy prisoners, two pie∣ces of Cannon, and two hundred Arms, with the loss of but ten men.

Colonel Charles Fleetwood took two Troups of the King's horse near Belvoir Castle.

Doctor Bastwick was exchanged for Colonel Huddleston.

Jeffreys the Queens Dwarf, in a Duel on horse-back in France killed Mr. Crofts.

Colonel Temple was sent into Sussex to raise Forces for the Parliament, in case the King should bend that way.

The King's Army marched to Andover, where some skirmishes were betwixt them and Sir Willi∣am Waller's Forces, and about twenty killed on both sides.

Colonel Kerne had the thanks of the House for his good Service, and was sent down to his Charge in the Isle of Wight.

Page  103 By Letters from the Lord Wareston and Mr. Crew, Commissioners in the Parliaments Army, was cer∣tified, That all the three Armies were joyned near to Basing, and that the King's Forces were at Whit-church within five miles of them. That the General * had sent to Reading, and other places to pull up their Bridges, to prevent the King's march to Oxford. And that the Council of War had resolved to give battel to the Enemy.

The Parliament took care for provisions to be sent to their Forces.

The Governour of Poole set upon the Queens Regiment of horse, marching that way near Bland∣ford, slew sixteen of them, took about forty pri∣soners, a hundred brave horse, two Colours, and much Popish trumpery, and lost but one man, and a few hurt.

Colonel Lambert fell upon a party of the King's horse near Plumpton in Yorkshire, took about a hun∣dred and forty Horse, the Commander in chief, an Irish Rebel, three Captains, and many prisoners.

The King faced the Parliaments Armies with his horse, and in the mean time drew away his Foot towards Newbury, whither he followed with * the horse, Captain Fincher waiting on their march, surprised sixty of their horse.

Orders were sent to the several Counties to be in a posture of defence, and the Chirurgeons were sent down with Medicaments to the Army, and Mr. Bell, to provide them.

An Ordinance passed that no quarter should be given to any of the Irish Rebels, taken either at Sea or Land.

By a Letter from Pembroke was certified, that some of Prince Rupert's Forces, particularly of the Irish Rebels, drove away their Cattel, risled their Houses, eat and destroyed all their Provisions, burnt their Villages and standing Corn, destroyed all Sexes and Degrees.

Aged and unarmed persons were stripped naked by them; •and some they inhumanely murthered in cold blood, others they half hanged, and after∣wards stigmatized and burnt their flesh off from their bodies to the bare bones, and yet suffered them to live in great torture.

The Commons ordered, that all the Judges and King's Council should meet, to consider of the Tryal of Macquire and Macmahon.

An Ordinance passed, to free the Heir of Sir William Fairfax, who was slain in the Parliaments Service, from Wardship.

An Order past to admit the Prince Elector to come when he pleased to the Assembly of Divines, * to hear their Debates, according to his High∣nesse's desire.

Newcastle Town not agreeing to Propositions of * a Treaty, the Scots stormed and entred part of the Town, and became Masters of it; that Sir John Merlay and others for the King, fled to the Castle, and offered to render it upon quarter; which was denied, but that they should render at mercy.

Some of the Scots Officers were slain, as Major Hepburne, and others, but more of the Enemy.

Publick thanks to God were ordered to be gi∣ven for the mercy in gaining Newcastle.

Sergeant Whitfield had the thanks of the House for his pains in preparing the Evidence for the Tryal of Macquire and Macmahon, and the former Lord chief Justice Bramston was ordered to be ad∣vised with in that Business.

An Ordinance passed for the sale of some Delin∣quents Lands in Essex.

By Letters from the Commissioners in the Army, it was certified, that the Armies were near engage∣ment, that the King's horse faced the Parliaments Forces within a mile, their Foot and Artillery marched up, and were drawn into Bartalia at Buc∣klebury, and nothing more done that day, but they resolved the next day to charge the King's Forces, if they would stand to it, and they desired provi∣sions might be sent to the Army.

Two Barges loaded with Bisket and Cheese were sent to Reading, to be conveyed to the Army.

The Houses being informed, that the Lord Ge∣neral * was not well, and stayed behind the Army, they sent a Committee of Lords and Commons to visit him, and to express the affections of both Houses to him.

This was not (as was given out) a piece of Courtship; but, I think, real, and there was cause enough that it should be so, the General having so highly deserved from them: Yet there were some had Designs against him, and were desirous to re∣move him from his Command, because they were jealous, that he was too much inclined to peace, and favouring of the King and his party.

I think, I knew as much of his mind as others did, and always observed him to wish for peace, yet not upon any dishonourable or unjust terms; he was a Lover of Monarchy and Nobility, which he suspected some designed to destroy, together with Gentry, Ministry, and Magistracy; which humour began then to boyl up, but he resolved to support them, and wanted not advice to that end.

But the Jealousies upon him (who was a most * faithful and gallant man, and servant to the pub∣lick) gave him great trouble in his thoughts, and they did work so high with his Enemies, that some gave out he was by private intimation to forbear engaging in this Service; and for certain he was not in it.

A party of the King's coming to relieve Ban∣bury, were repulsed by Captain Fiennes, their Bag and Baggage taken, divers of them killed, and some of them taken prisoners.

The City Propositions to be sent with the ge∣neral Propositions for peace, were voted, and ap∣proved.

Divers Citizens petitioned, That Justice might * be done against Delinquents, especially the two grand Incendiaries, the Bishop of Canterbury and Wren, and that the Commons House might be recruited with new Members.

Sir John Hotham petitioned, That he might not be * tryed by the Commissioners for the Court-Marshal, and demanded the Judgment of the House thereupon, and offered his Reasons: but they would not hear them.

The Commons being informed, that in proba∣bility the Armies were now engaged; they sent to the Assembly of Divines to spend some time in Prayer, for the good success of the Parliaments Forces, which was done accordingly.

In the Evening the same day, news came to the Parliament, of a considerable Victory obtained by * their Forces against the King's Army near New∣bury; That the Fight began on Sunday, October 27th. about Three a Clock in the Afternoon; That before Seven, they had nine pieces of Ord∣nance from the Enemy, took the Earl of Cleveland, and three hundred prisoners, killed Charles Goring, Son to the Lord Goring, Sir Humphrey Mildmay•s eldest Son, and divers others of quality; and that the King about Twelve at Night, marched with a party towards Wallingford.

Another party of the Kings, under the Earl of Northampton, came to relieve Banbury, and taking the Besiegers at unawares, made their way into the Castle, and relieved it, and made good their Retreat.

Page  104 Scout-master General Bedford came to the house with Letters from the Commissioners in the Ar∣my, of the particulars of the Battel at Newbury, to this effect.

That after a Weeks tedious, but speedy march of the Lord General's Infantry, and one nights refreshment at Reading; in two days further progress, they drew up before Newbury, as near the Town as the Enemies Cannon would suffer; this was upon Friday Oct. 25.

The King kept within the Town, guarded by his Artillery, but his Body of Horse and Foot drew out into Speen-field, the midway between the Town and Castle, both to make his Army seem more nu∣merous, and to imbattel them in a place of extra∣ordinary advantage: that day afforded nothing but an Interview, the interposing River hindred the desire to fight.

On the King's part appeared rather a declining to be engag'd, either that their numbers were not equal, or from an expectation of Prince Rupert's advance with 3000 horse and Dragoons, and the return of the Earl of Northampton from Banbury with 1000.

The King's strength is reported to have been 8000 foot and 500 horse, which, albeit a gallant Army, yet upon the Parliaments Forces drawing into Battalia, they durst not take the Field; but to counterpoise the Parliaments numbers, the King fell to Stratagems to fortifie the Town, espe∣cially the Avenues, and having raised his Batte∣ries, and lined the hedges, stood upon his guard, and with some great pieces, where he saw the big∣gest bodies, and most advantage, liberally sent them some Bullets which killed 2 or 3 horse, but hurt not their Riders.

For many hours, some parties of horse skirmisht 'twixt both the Armies, in which play the Parlia∣ment had the best; of whose part but one man fell, of theirs four or five, of which one was knighted.

It being impossible to engage the King's Forces without much hazard, that night the greatest part of the Parliaments Forces marched unto Chevely; the horse commanded by Waller and Balfour, the foot by Skippon, whilst the other encamped before the Eastside of the Town, and ordered by Manche∣ster, at one same time, having agreed to storm the Garrison on both sides.

That night and the next, the Parliamentarians quartered in the open fields, but neither the cold∣ness of the weather, nor want of usual provision, any whit disanimated the Souldiers, the expecta∣tion of fight swallowing up all other extremities, howbeit most of them had three days provision prepared by command in their Snapsacks.

By Daybreak upon Sunday, the horse and foot commanded by Waller and Skippon, were upon their march, in four hours surrounded Dunnington Ca∣stle, and made their approach towards the West of Newbury.

By the way they intercepted two or three Carts of Provision, and took about 100 horse and foot of the King's as they straggled, and the King's For∣ces from the Castle fell upon the Parliaments Rear, and took 10 or 12 prisoners.

Upon this march they received the Report, that Newcastle was taken by storm, and the Ulster Rebels defeated, which much incouraged the Parlaiments Forces.

It was One a Clock ere the Train and Rear came up, and near Three ere they could be put into Bat∣talia: with extraordinary shouts, and other symp∣toms of courage and joy, the Western body advan∣ced, and by the Forlorn-hope of horse, quickly began the fight, which, with as much eagerness, was seconded by the foot, who cryed, They would now be revenged for the business of Cornwall.

For three hours the fight was maintained with as much resolution and bravery on both parts, as hath been since these Wars; the Cannon and small shot on both sides firing with as quick a motion as was possible.

Among the foot, the General's Regiment, espe∣cially, did eminently well; and among all of the whole Army, there was not one man, or party, horse or foot, seen either to desert their duty, or to dishearten their fellows. After a long and hot dispute, the Parliamentarians beat the King's For∣ces, first from their Work, and then from their Ordnance, nine in number, in which atchieve∣ment they lost a few men, and among them Cap∣tain Gawler.

The Day was of so much discontent to his Ma∣jesty, that an hour after midnight, he marched out of the Town with an attendant Troop only towards Winchester, and sent up his Cannon, Car∣riages, and Baggage to the Castle, where at day-break the Parliamentarians saw them placed, and Colonel Cromwell followed the body of the Ene∣my two hours before day.

The E. of Cleveland was taken prisoner by a Lieu∣tenant of Colonel Barkley's, General Goring hardly escaped, his Brother was shot dead as he charged, most of his Troop were cut off; Major Trevillian and divers others of quality, and 200 common Souldiers of the King's part slain, and 300 taken prisoners.

Letters came of the taking of the Town and Ca∣stle * of Newcastle, surrendred to General Leven, Oct. 29. the Governour and the rest submitting for their lives. In that little compass of the Castle were 500 men, besides women and children. Three Scots Lords taken there, Craford, Rea, and Max∣well, were sent into Scotland to be there tryed.

The Town though taken by Onslaght was not much ransackt, most of them redeeming their goods from plunder, upon reasonable satisfaction in moneys.

A Day of publick Thanksgiving was appointed for these successes at Newbury, and at Newcastle.

Some differences among the Committee of Sus∣sex were referred to a Committee of the House, and another Committee appointed to consider of settling the Garrison of Windsor, and reducing it to a less number, and half pay.

Alderman Atkins was sworn Lord Mayor of Lon∣don in the Exchequer, according to custom.

Letters from Sir William Waller, and Sir Arthur * Haslerigge, further confirmed the Parliaments suc∣cess at Newbury, and that they had taken 1000 Arms there: that if they had had but one hour more of day-light, in probability they had totally routed and dispersed the King's whole Army;

Which was in so great distraction after the fight, that they retreated three several ways at once in great confusion: That the King (as they were informed) with a small party wheeled about by Marlborough, and so to Oxford.

Since the fight they took many prisoners strag∣glers, and the King's own Coach, and General Forth's Coach with his Lady, many Sumpter-hor∣ses, and other good Prizes.

An Ordinance was committed for the Attainder of the Archbishop, and they that managed the Evi∣dence * against him at his Tryal, were appointed to bring in the state of all the Evidence to the House.

Letters from Captain Hacker informed, that a party of the King's coming to relieve Crow∣land, were set upon by the Parliaments Forces 600 horse, and 400 hundred prisoners taken of Newark Page  105 and Belvoir Forces, and the Town much discoura∣ged thereby.

A hundred horse of the Queen's Regiment were taken by the Garrison of Weymouth, wherein the Country people assisted the Parliaments Forces.

Sir Authony Ashley Cooper with 1500 horse and * foot from several Garrisons, took the field, to en∣counter Sir Lewis Dives.

Sir William Ʋvedale was readmitted to sit as a Member of the House.

Novemb. 1644. The Lord Paget petitioned ex∣pressing much sorrow for his deserting the Parliament, and adhering to the Enemy, whose Counsel and De∣signs he now seeth to tend to the destruction of the King∣dom, humbly submitting himself to the Favour of the Parliament.

Letters from Newcastle, desire the Parliament to consider of the new framing and settling the Go∣vernment of that Town, and that fit and able men may be chosen for that purpose, which was refer∣red to a Committee of both Houses.

General Leven sent 5000 horse and foot of the Scots Army to the Lord Fairfax in Yorkshire, to suppress the stragling Enemy there.

An Ordinance was sent down to Newcastle for the Tryal of Sir John Marley, the late Mayor there, by a Council of War.

A Commander in Surrey, sent to some Members of Parliament there, to provide Contribution for him; for this, he and his Troop were sent for up to the Parliament.

Four Chirurgeons of the Army were referred to be tryed by a Council of War, for being ab∣sent at the late fight.

The Archbishop was ordered to attend the House * of Commons, to hear the Evidence against him repeated, and to answer to it, the Commons re∣solving to proceed against him by Bill of Attainder, because they perceived the Lords not forward to give Judgment for Treason against him.

A hundred pound was given to Colonel Berkley newly come to Lond. sore wounded in the late fight.

The Archbishop was brought to the Bar of the * House of Commons, where Mr. Samuel Brown, one that managed the Evidence before against him, did now repeat it, and took up three hours time, the Archbishop had a weeks time given him to answer there.

Letters from Colonel Charles Fleetwood, inform∣ed more particularly of the late defeat given to the Newark Forces near Belvoir.

By desire from the Scots Commissioners, both * Houses sent to the Assembly of Divines, to bring in the Particulars of what they had finished for the Government of the Church; that it may be ap∣proved and confirmed by the Parliament, and to hasten the dispatch of what further they have in de∣termination concerning the same.

Letters from Sir William Brereton and Sir John Meldrum, certified, That fifty of the English Soul∣diers * of the Garrison of Leverpoole, came out of the Town, and submitted to Sir John Meldrum, after which, the Irish Souldiers in the Garrison, knowing that if the Town were taken, they should have no quarter; they conspired together, seized upon all their Commanders, and rendred the Town to Sir John Meldrum, submitting to his mercy for their lives.

Sir John gave them all their lives, and sent them over into Ireland; there were taken in the Town two Colonels, two Lieutenant-Colonels, three Majors, fourteen Captains, besides inferiour Offi∣cers and common Souldiers, Ordnance, Arms and Ammunition, in great quantity. Many of the Townsmen had shipped their best Goods to be conveyed away, but Sir John Meldrum by Long∣boats seized on them.

Letters from Newcastle, certified, That Tin∣mouth Castle was surrendred upon conditions; and * in it 38 pieces of Ordnance, and store of Arms and Ammunition and Provisions: the Souldiers were to march with their particular Baggage, and to be quiet in their own Dwellings, submitting to all Ordinances of Parliament.

The King and Prince Rupert with about 2000 horse and foot marched to Cirencester, the Lord Gerrard was expected to come to him with 1500 * out of Wales, the rest of his Forces were about Woodstock, the Parliaments Army marched after them to Abington.

Upon the day of publick Thanksgiving, as the Lord Mayor came home from St. Pauls in Cheapside, divers Popish Books, Pictures, Beads and Cruci∣fixes, were burnt where the Cross stood.

Letters of Direction were sent from the Parlia∣ment to their Armies, for their motion after the Enemy.

A Petition of Lincolnshire complained of Grie∣vances, and another from Leicestershire desired that the Lord Grey might be sent down to them, being their Commander in chief.

Letters from Captain Hacker inform, That at * the Defeat of the Newark Forces, the number of horse taken were about 800. That Sir John Gir∣lington was drowned, and divers others of quality with him, besides common Souldiers, in their con∣fused flight over a Mill-dam. That forty Com∣manders and Officers and near 400 common Soul∣diers were taken prisoners, and but one man slain of the Parliaments.

They blocked up Belvoir Castle, put a Garrison into Grantham, and continued close Siege to Crow∣land and Newark.

A party from Leicester faced Ashby, and drove away many of their Cattel, and two days after 10 or 12 horse from Ashby came to a Gentleman's house, where some of the Lord Grey's Comman∣ders were making merry, and took them away pri∣soners.

Colonel Ludlowe with a party of horse joyned with the Besiegers of Basing.

The Members for each County were ordered to name three in every County, and the Parlia∣ment would choose one of the three, to be high Sheriff.

Both Houses agreed in all matters touching the * Propositions for peace, and referred it to the Com∣mittee of both Kingdoms to consider of the man∣ner of sending them to the King.

An Ordinance passed for the better securing of the Isle of Wight.

The King and Prince Rupert were at Oxford, and * had a Rendezvous in Cuddington Moor, of about 11000 horse and foot; care was taken to prevent their breaking into the associated Counties of Nor∣folk, &c.

Four Members of the House of Commons; viz. Mr. Pierpoint, Mr. Hollis, Mr. Whitelocke, and the * L. Wenman, were named as a Committee, to joyn with two of the House of Lords, and a Commit∣tee of the Scots Commissioners, to carry the Propo∣sitions for Peace to his Majesty, and the Commit∣tee of both Kingdoms were ordered to send to the King for a safe Conduct for them.

The King's Souldiers begging, as if they had been wounded in the Parliaments Service, were prohibited, and order taken for allowance to all the wounded Souldiers of the Parliament.

The Defaults in the duty of the Officers and Page  106 Souldiers of Colonel Fiennes his Regiment, and o∣ther Officers before Banbury, referred to be exa∣mined by a Committee.

The Assembly of Divines as soon as the House of Commons were sate, and before they were full, * came to the House, and presented them with the Assemblie's Advice and Opinion, for the Presbyte∣rian Government to be settled, and an expression was in their Advice, That the Presbyterian Government was jure divino.

Glyn and Whitelocke were then in the House, and * few others, but those who concurred in judgment with the Assembly, and had notice to be there ear∣ly, thinking to pass this business before the House should be full.

Glyn stood up and spake an hour to the point of jus divinum, and the Presbyterian Government, in which time the House filled apace, and then White∣locke spake to the same Points, inlarging his dis∣course to a much longer time than ordinary; and purposely that the House might be full, as it was before he had made an end.

And then upon the question it was carried, to lay aside the point of jus divinum; and herein Glyn and Whitelocke had thanks from divers, for preventing the surprisal of the House upon this great question.

An Ordinance passed for the due payment of Tithes.

The Propositions for Peace being fully agreed unto, a Letter was ordered forthwith to be sent * to the General of the King's Army, for a safe con∣duct for the Lords and Commons and Scots Com∣missioners that are to go with them to the King.

The Commons took order concerning the Trade of Coals from Newcastle, and the Government of that Town.

Colonel Ʋrrey, because of his former incon∣stancy was denied to be again received into the Parliaments Service, but permitted to go be∣yond-sea.

The City of London petitioned, That care might be taken of the Garrison of Windsor, being * a place of so great importance to the City, and concerning the Committees of Sussex, and the For∣tifications about the City.

The Commons gave them this answer, That they resolved to doe their utmost for the advancement and * security of the City, which had deserved so well of the Parliament and Kingdom.

The Court-Marshal had power given them to proceed against Souldiers that ran away from their Colours.

A Petition subscribed by many thousands in Norfolk; was, For the settlement of the Govern∣ment of the Church; and for punishing such as had not taken the Covenant: For which the Commons an∣swered, That Instructions had been formerly given.

The Archbishop at the Bar of the House of Commons made his Defence, which took up many hours; he concluded, That he would take it upon * his death, that he never intended to subvert the fun∣damental Laws, nor to introduce Popery, and that what he did, was either by the King's Command, or of the High Commission Court, and wherein he had but one Vote.

The Grand Jury found the Bill against Mac∣quire and Macmahon.

The Parliament wrote to the several Counties in their power, for levying the Arrears of the 400000 l. Subsidy.

A Party of the King's relieved Dunnington Ca∣stle, and brought away some Artillery from thence. The Commons ordered that whole Business to be inquired into, and the Defaults of any of their Officers or Souldiers in that Action.

Upon the desire of some of the Assembly, who dissented from the Form of Church-government pre∣sented * by the rest, a Day was appointed to hear their Arguments against it.

Mr. Samuel Brown a Member of the House of Commons, replyed to the Defence made by the Archbishop, and the House passed the Ordinance, for the Attainder of the Archbishop of High * Treason.

Macmahon pleaded Not guilty to the Indict∣ment against him,

But the Lord Macquire pleaded, That he was a Peer of Ireland, and ought to be tryed there, and prayed to be allowed Council in the point of Peerage; which was admitted: and the Lawyers of the House were ordered to meet, and advise with the Judges concerning the Tryal.

The Lord Fairfax with some of the Scots For∣ces, advancing against Knasborough, fell on the Enemy, beat them out of the Town into the Ca∣stle, slew about twenty of them, and took some prisoners.

A party of Skipton Cavaliers going to relieve Hemsley Castle, the Lord Fairfax sent a party un∣der * Major Sanders, to make good the Siege, but before they came, the Besiegers had routed the King's party, killed and wounded divers, took eighty horse, and a great quantity of provisions, and took about fifty Officers and Gentlemen, be∣sides common Souldiers prisoners.

By permission of the Earl of Rutland, the Town of Belvoir was burnt, the better to come at the Castle.

A Petition from Kent acknowledged the un∣wearied pains of the Parliament; and proposeth, * that the Commanders in the Armies may be allowed but little pay in present, with assurance to be satisfied their Arrears out of Delinquents Estates, when the War is ended.

That Neuters may be discovered, and contribute in a larger manner than others.

That out of Bishops Lands, &c. small Livings of Ministers may have Augmentations. With other Propositions tending to bring the Warre to a speedy conclusion, for which the Petitioners had thanks.

The Names were presented to the Commons of those who were agreed on to carry the Proposi∣tions to the King; viz. The Earl of Denbigh, and the Lord Maynard of the Peers, Mr. Pier∣point, * Mr. Hollis, Mr. Whitelocke, and the Lord Wenman of the House of Commons, and the Lord Maitland, Sir Charles Erskins, and Mr. Bartlay for Scotland.

An Ordinance past for a free Trade to New∣castle.

The Council assigned for Macquire and Mac-mahon, desired to be excused, they being notori∣ous Irish Rebells, but their excuse was not al∣lowed.

Some Sailers petitioned for their shares of Pri∣zes taken, which was referred to the Earl of Warwick.

Some of the City Souldiers were sent for as De∣linquents, for a breach of Privilege, in entring into a house of a Member of Parliament, to search for concealed Goods.

With the Artillery brought from Dunnington Ca∣stle, the King fortified the Lord Seymour's house at Marleborough.

Order was taken for the Relief of Taunton Castle.

Page  107 Mr. Brown carryed up to the Lords the Ordi∣nance for the Attainder of the Archbishop.

Hospitals about London were exempt from tax∣es, because they relieved the wounded Soldi∣ers.

An Ordinance past for supply of Windsor, where the Soldiers were in disorder for want of pay.

The Trumpeter returned with a safe conduct * from Prince Rupert, under the King's Hand and Seal, for the Lords and Gentlemen appointed to carry the Propositions of Peace to the King, and though the safe Conduct takes no notice of them as Members of Parliament, but as private persons, yet the Parliament received it.

Mac Mahon was found guilty, and had judge∣ment against him of High Treason.

The Parliament's Forces were drawn out of Newbury towards Basing, to prevent the relieving of it.

The Assembly had liberty to answer in writing, the reasons of their dissenting Brethren concerning * Church Government; and both their Arguments to be presented to the House.

The Commons Voted the advance of the Scots * Army Southward.

Two houses near Ashby were garrison'd by the Parliaments Forces.

Sir Alexander Carew some time a Member of the * House of Commons, and Governour of St Nicho∣las Island near Plymouth, had sentence of death pronounced against him by the Court Marshall for endeavouring to betray the Fort to the E∣nemy.

Much notice was taken of three Suns in the Fir∣mament on the King's birth-day, and a Rainbow with the bend towards the Earth.

The Lords and Commons, and Scots Commis∣sioners * appointed to carry the Propositions for peace to the King, went out of Town Nov. 20. They are to bring back the King's Answer, which if they have not in time convenient, it is left to their discretion, how long to stay for it.

They went first to Reading to inquire where the King was, supposing the King had been at Marlborough, to which place, Reading is the way, but there were informed that the King was gon to Wallingford, and though very late, and in bad ways and weather, they hasted away in the Evening cross the Country, from thence to Nettlebed, and were benighted, and in much danger in that ill journey.

At Nettlebed which is but a little Countrey Town, they had very bad quarter for so many great persons, but contented themselves, and were merry together, with their ill lodging and en∣tertainment.

The next morning they went on their journey to Wallingford, and stayed at Cromash near a mile from the Town, whilst they sent a Letter to Co∣lonel Blake the Governour, to acquaint him, that they desired entrance into the Town by virtue of their safe Conduct from the King, whom they were to wait upon with Propositions from the Parlia∣ment.

Blake sent to them for their safe Conduct, which they denyed to send to him, alledging that it was their security for their passage, and that they were not to part with it, but they shewed it to his Messen∣ger, and gave him a Copy of it, with which he re∣turned to the Governour, and after some two hours attendance, he sent a Troop of Horse to convoy them into the Town.

They went directly to the Governour's quarters, who received them not rudely, but with hight enough; and called for wine for them, he told them that he believed, the King was returned to Ox∣ford, and that it was more probable they might find him there, than in any other place.

Amongst other discourses, he, and the Earl of Denbigh fell into relations of some passages of War, wherein both the Earl and Colonel Blake had been Actors, and both of them being high Spirits, could not brook any diminution to the honour of each other, or of their parties.

They differed upon some matters of fact, and grew unto very high words, insomuch as the Lord Maitland looked very pale, and he, and others thought that they should have their throats cut, by the garrison; and Blake looked very big upon them and his words were answerable.

All the Company held it fit to remove from this Garrison, seeing the Carriage of Blake so full of insolence and incivility, and with much dif∣ficulty, they at last got into their Coaches, and and took leave of the proud Governour.

The next morning they took their journey to∣wards Oxford, and upon the Hill half a mile be∣fore they came to the Town, they stayed in the field, till they sent a Messenger to the Governour of Oxford Sir Jacob Ashley, to acquaint him with their being there, to wait upon the King accor∣ding to their safe Conduct, (whereof they sent him a Copy) and desired entrance and accommodation in the City.

The Messenger returned, that Sir Jacob Ashley would acquaint his Majesty with their being there, and know his pleasure about it, and then he would send to them accordingly, and after three or four hours stay in the wet and cold open field, then came an Officer and a Troup of horse to Convoy them into the City.

As they past along the streets, the rude multi∣tude, the people part of that body for whom they underwent so many hazards of their lives and for∣tunes, to preserve them in their Rights and Liber∣ties, and from Slavery and Popery, which some about the King (as was believed) endeavoured to bring upon them.

Part of this People of England, as they past along the Streets, reviled them with the names of Trai∣tors, Rogues and Rebels, and the like, and threw stones and dirt into their Coaches, a great incou∣ragement and reward for their service for them.

They went on their way taking no notice of these affronts, and abuses, and were brought to their quarters to a mean Inn, the sign of the Katherine Wheele next St. John's College, which house was little above the degree of an Alehouse.

The Officer made a slight excuse to them, for making them stay so long, before they were admit∣ted into the Garrison; the which (he said) could not be, till the Governour had spoken with the King, which took up some time, and that the pro∣viding of quarters for them was very difficult, in regard the Town was so full of the King's Forces.

After they were setled in their quarters, divers of the King's great Officers, and Lords came to vi∣sit them, and some had their particular friends, who came thither to them, among whom was Sir Edward Hyde who came to Visit some of them, and in discourse in general about the Propositions for peace, profess'd his earnest desire and endea∣vour that they might take effect.

The Earl of Lindsey, who then lay sick of wounds he had received, sent a Gentleman in his name to visit Mr. Hollis and Mr. Whitelocke, and to tell them that if he had been able to come abroad he would himself have visited them.

Page  108 The Commissioners Servants informed them of a great bussle in the Hall of the Inne. That some Officers of the King's Army came in thither to them, and fell to quarrel with them, called them, and their Masters, and the Parliament, Rogues, and Rebels, and Traytors, and would not suffer them to come near the fire, upon which they quarrell'd.

Mr. Hollis went presently to one of the King's Officers, who was there, a tall big black man, and taking him by the Collar, shook him, and told him, it was basely and unworthily done of them to abuse their Servants in their own quarters, and contrary to the King's safe conduct, and presently took away his Sword from him.

Whitelocke did the like to another great mastiff Fellow, an Officer also of the King's Army, and took away his Sword from him.

Upon this, fearing some Design upon them, and that more of the King's Officers and Souldiers would come in to affront them; they caused the door of the Inne to be shut up, and sent to acquaint the Governour with this abuse and affront offered to them.

He presently sent a Captain, who took away those two Officers who had been disarmed, and carried them to prison; he excused a little the matter to the Commissioners, and brought a Guard of Foot-souldiers to attend at the door of their quarters.

This business was much talked on among the King's Officers and Souldiers, and most of them said, that Hollis and Whitelocke had done well, and like Gentlemen in disarming those two that offered the affront, whom they much condemned, and they were after this quiet.

The next day they had access to his Majesty, who used them civilly, and gave to every one of them his hand to kiss, but he seemed to shew more dis∣dain to the Scots Commissioners, than to any others of their Company.

The Earl of Denbigh read the Propositions to his Majesty, who heard them with much patience, and when they were all read, told them that he would consider of an Answer to be given to them.

Hollis and Whitelocke thought themselves obliged in civility and courtship, to return a Visit to the Earl of Lindsey: But (all the Commissioners ha∣ving agreed that none of them should singly give any Visit to any of the King's Officers or great Lords, nor in company without acquainting their Fellow-commissioners therewith)

They thought fit to tell them their Intentions (with their leave) to return a Visit to the Earl of Lindsey, who had so courteously first sent to visit them, and all their Fellow commissioners appro∣ved thereof, and wished them to doe as they in∣tended.

The same Evening about Eight or Nine of the Clock, Hollis and Whitelocke went to the Court, to the Earl of Lindsey's Lodgings, whom they found ill, and in his Bed, and divers Lords with him; a∣mong the rest the Lord Savile, then newly made Earl of Sussex.

The Earl of Lindsey expressed much content∣ment, and that he took it extream kindly that they would come to visit him, and treated them with extraordinary respect and courtesie; and no man with him was so forward to complement them as was the Lord Savile.

When they had been there about a quarter of an hour, the King and Prince Rupert, and divers great Lords came into the Chamber where they were. Whether sent to, after they came, or by accident, they knew not; The King saluted them very ci∣villy, and began to discourse with them, part whereof was to this effect.

Hollis and Whitelocke went together into another Room, where they were private, and upon dis∣course together they apprehended that it would be no breach of trust in them to observe the King's de∣sire herein: but that it might be a means to facili∣tate the work about which they came, the most desirable business of Peace.

Therefore by Mr. Hollis his intreaty, and as they both agreed, Whitelocke wrote down what was their sense in this matter, and what might be fit for the substance of the King's Answer to their Message: but he wrote it not in his usual hand, nor with any name to it, nor was any person present but they two when it was written, nor did the King admit of any others to hear the discourse which passed be∣twixt him and them.

The Paper which was thus written they left up∣on the Table in the withdrawing Room; and the King went in, and took it, and then with much fa∣vour and civility bid them farewell, and went away himself; after which, and a few Complements passed between the Earl of Lindsey and them, they took leave of him and the rest of the Company, and returned to their own Lodgings.

This being the truth of those secret and private passages for which Hollis and Whitelocke were after∣wards accused in Parliament by the Lord Savile: No indifferent person can justly censure them for any unfaithfulness, or the least breach of their trust to the Parliament, whose Servants they then were. And this may be answer'd for them, that what they did herein was in compassion to their bleeding distressed Countrey, and for the effecting of that which was universally longed for; the set∣tlement of a just and happy Peace.

But this was not imparted by them to their fel∣low Commissioners, nor could all the Examinati∣ons at Committees and in the House of Commons get it out of them.

The Parliaments forces leaving Newbury, the King possest himself thereof, and the Parliament forces lay in the Field, expecting to fight them, but the time of the year was very hard for such Quarters.

The L. Macquire moved the King's Bench for some monies detained from him, and that he might have paper, pen and ink allowed him, and some Statute-books, the better to make his Defence, all which was granted to him.

The Assembly of Divines sent to the Commons the whole Directory for Worship, Prayer, Preach∣ing, * Baptism, and the Lord's Supper agreed on by them.

The siege before Basing-house was raised, and the Parliaments forces retreated to Farnham and Reading for their Winter-quarters.

The Regiments of Colonel Fleetwood and Colo∣nel Rosseter beat up the Enemies Quarters near Newark, took 160 Horse, 80 Prisoners, Major Heron, and other Commanders.

The Commons appointed an examination touch∣ing any neglects of their Armies, and the spinning out of the War, and of the late miscarriages after Newbury Fight, when they had so much advantage against the Enemy.

By Letters from Colonel Norton he informs the House, that he had received a warrant from a chief Commander in their Army, to raise the siege from before Basing-house, and to betake themselves to Winter quarters, which was a thing unexpected to him, but according to that Warrant they had with∣drawn.

This raised new jealousies and discontents in the * minds of many of the Parliament, and of their Friends.

Mac Mahon was executed at Tyburn, and Mr. Peters urg'd him to make confession, but he would not unless he might have a Romish Priest.

The plea of Peerage of the Lord Macquire was allowed.

Upon Letters from Colonel Jones Governour of Farnham, the King's Army being come near him, the Parliament ordered some forces to be quartered there for his assistance.

Sir Alexander Carew being sentenced by the * Court Marshal to have his Head cut off, his Lady petitioned that her Husband was distracted and unfit to die, and prayed a Reprieve for him, which was granted.

An Ordinance passed for a voluntary contributi∣on to raise the second payment to the Scots.

The late carriage of the Armies in suffering * Donnington Castle to be relieved, and quitting Newbury which was plundered, and not fighting when the Parliaments forces were two for one, was referred to a Committee to be examined.

The Parliaments forces quartered at Reading, Abington and Henley, where the rude Souldiers did great mischief to Friends as well as Enemies in their Houses and more in their Woods; but such insolencies and mischiefs must be expected from this brood of Men or rather bruitish Souldiers, who know no difference between Friends and Foes, but all is Plunder that they can fasten their hands upon.

Kent raised 3000 men to oppose the King's march into Sussex and Surrey, which was feared.

The power of the Court Marshal was continued for four months longer than their former time.

A Party of about 300 of the King's forces coming to Axminster near Lyme, to fortifie it, and to streighten Lyme, the Governour fell upon them, and at the second charge routed them, killed Ma∣jor Walker, two Captains, two Lieutenants, and divers common Souldiers, took four pieces of Ordnance, many Arms and Prisoners, and relea∣sed fifty Gentlemen who had been by them taken Prisoners from their houses.

The Commons passed the Directory of Worship.

Letters from the Commissioners at Oxford infor∣med, * That on the Lord's day they presented the Propo∣sitions for Peace to the King, which were read by the Earl of Denbigh. That the King ask'd the Committee if they had power to treat? they answered, no; but their Commission was to receive His Majestie's Answer in writing; then the King said they should receive his Answer accordingly.

At the reading of the excepted persons names, which the Earl of Denbigh read with great courage and tem∣per: P. Rupert and P. Maurice, being present when their names were read as excepted persons, they fell into a laughter, at which the King seemed displeased, and bid them be quiet.

When the Committee answered the King that they had no Commission to treat, but to receive His Maje∣stie's Answer in writing, the King replied, then a Letter-carrier might have done as much as you; to which the Earl of Denbigh said, I suppose your Ma∣jesty looks upon us as persons of another condition than Letter-carriers.

Page  110 The King said again, I know your condition; but I say that your Commission gives you power to doe no more than a Letter-carrier might have done, and so they came away from the King with a little kind of dissatis∣faction, but some of his Lords afterwards excused to them those hasty words.

Surrey petitioned for relief against free quarter, which was ordered, and that all forces of the Par∣liament near London should be removed nearer to the Enemy, and to inlarge their own quarters.

Order was given for the relief of Taunton Castle, and for supplies of Abington.

Persons in Norwich who were imprisoned for not coming to hear Common Prayer, were by Vote discharged.

An Ordinance passed for the inhabitants of New England to have free Trade hither without paying of Customs.

Two Papists being stayed at the Court of Guards, affirmed that they were Parliament Soul∣diers under Captain Buller, and the House being informed of it, referred it to a Committee to be examined, and order if it were so, and the Cap∣tain knew it, that he should be cashiered; and the like for any Officer of the Parliament that should doe as he did.

A new Seal was made of the Dutchy of Lancaster, and Whitelocke was made by the Parliament Attor∣ney of the Dutchy.

The Commons referred it to the Committee of the Navy to take special notice of the gallant ser∣vice done by Captain Ashley, and to give him all due encouragement.

Sir John Boles with forces from Newark, plun∣dered divers houses in Lincolnshire of the Parlia∣ments Friends, and took away Mr. Anderson, and Mr. Emmerson a Committee-man, Prisoners.

The City by a Petition remember their forward∣ness * in their persons and purses to serve the Parliament, and desire a reimbursement of their monies lent to∣wards reducing of Newcastle, and that they might have Coals at a reasonable price, which was held fit by the Commons, and put in a way to be done.

A party of Monmouth Garrison being drawn out * upon a design against the King's forces thereabouts, the Lord Herbert of Ragland having notice thereof, sent seven or eight of his Souldiers in the habit of Countreymen, who discoursed with the Sentinels of Monmouth Castle, feigning themselves Friends, which made the Sentinels secure and careless, upon which two Troups of Horse, watching their op∣portunity broke through the Sentinels, and possest themselves of the Castle.

A Ship of Exeter loaden with rich goods, and cast by weather into Lyme, was ordered to be sold; and one moity of the goods for the Town, the other for the service of the West.

Upon the Petition of divers Western Gentlemen driven from their habitations by the King's forces, the Commons ordered a Committee to take care to provide houses and accommodations for them; and this brought in divers others who were not in the like necessity, but rather for their gain to ob∣tain the like favour.

Sir Thomas Littleton was remanded to streighter custody in the Tower.

The Committee who carried the Propositions of * Peace to Oxford, had the King's Answer sealed up and sent to them.

They upon advice together thought it not fit for them to receive an Answer in that manner, not being acquainted what it was, nor a Copy of it (as was usual in the like cases) sent with it unto them, and upon this they desired to be excused from re∣ceiving that Answer so sealed, and made an Ad∣dress to His Majesty, that they might know what his Answer was, and have a Copy of it; to which His Majesty replied, What is that to you, who are but to carry what I send, and if I will send the Song of Robin Hood and Little John you must carry it? to which the Commissioners onely said that the business about which they came and were to return with His Ma∣jestie's Answer was of somewhat more consequence than that Song. And other passages there were which shewed the King to be then in no good humour, and were wondred at in a business especially of this Im∣portance, and where the disobliging the Commis∣sioners could be of no advantage to the King; but all was endeavoured to be made up again by some of the King's Lords before the Commissioners came away, and a Copy of the Answer was sent them.

Another exception they took to the Paper of the Answer, that it was not directed to any body, nor the Parliament so much as acknowledged, or na∣med in it, to which the King answered, that it was delivered to the Parliaments Commissioner's which was sufficient; and some of his Lords told them, that they could not get it otherwise, chiefly, because they were there as Commissioners of both King∣doms; and earnestly intreated the Commissioners for peace sake, to receive it as it them was sent to them.

Upon Debate thereof among the Commissioners, and it being considered that they must take it up∣on themselves to break off the Treaty for Peace in case they refused this Paper; and that it was more proper for them to leave it to the Judgment of their Masters, they did receive the Answer as it was sent to them.

Nov. 29. They returned to the Parliament, and * the next day at a Conference of both Houses His Majestie's Answer was read, in the preamble where∣of were high expressions of his desires of Peace, and he demanded a Safe Conduct for the Duke of Lenox and the Earl of Southampton to come with his Answer to the Propositions.

The Exceptions to this Paper of the King's were much debated, but at length out of the earnest de∣sire of Peace, it was carried to lay aside those ob∣jections.

And the House ordered, that upon consideration of the faithfull service done by the Committee that went to His Majesty, and their discreet carriage of the bu∣siness, the thanks of the House should be returned to them for the same: and every one of them several∣ly in their order stood up in their places, and the Speaker solemnly pronounced the Thanks of the House to them.

December, 1644. The Commons agreed upon several Gentlemen to be High Sheriffs, and those who refused, or to act as Justices of Peace should be sent for as Delinquents.

The Earl of Manchester made a long Report touching the business of Donnington Castle, and in excuse of the Parliaments forces in that Action.

Abuses were examined of the Gentleman whom some called Prince Grissith.

Sir J. Hotham was Tried by the Court Marshal.

1. For betraying his Trust, and adhering to the E∣nemy; * proved by his Words, Letters and Actions, his compliance with the Lord Digby, the Marquess of Newcastle, and others of that party.

2. His refusal to supply the Lord Fairfax with Am∣munition, to the great prejudice of the Parliament.

3. His Scandalous Words against the Parliament.

4. His endeavour to betray Hull to the Enemy.

5. His Correspondence with the Queen, and his seeking to escape.

Thirty Witnesses were examined against him, and divers for him in his Defence.

Page  111 The Parliament directed a Letter to be sent from the Lord General to Prince Rupert to this effect.

That if His Majesty shall send to the Parliament of England assembled at Westminster, and to the Com∣missioners * of the Parliament of the Kingdom of Scot∣land, they would with all readiness grant a Safe Con∣duct for the Duke of Richmond and the Earl of South-hampton to come from the King with an Answer to the Propositions for Peace, and treat with them according to His Majestie's desire.

Several Ordinances passed for raising of Mo∣neys.

Abington being in some distress, Major General Craford with a party of the Parliaments forces, relieved the Garrison plentifully and brought thi∣ther 1000 Sheep, which he drove away from under the Walls of Wallingford, and none of the Enemy appeared against him.

Sir Lewis Dives being at Dorchester with about 300 Horse and Dragoons, sent a party to face Lyme, and at their return Major Sydenham of Pool with about 60 Horse fell upon them in Dorchester, charged them through and through, wounded Dives, slew many and took divers Prisoners.

As Sydenham faced about he saw Major Williams (who had formerly killed the Mother of Sydenham) * in the Head of the King's Troups coming to charge him, whereupon Sydenham bid his men stand close to him, for he would avenge his Mother's blood on Williams, or die on the place; and then so violently made his way that he came up to Williams and slew him, put all his men to flight, and drove them through the Town, and so returned to Poole.

Carlisle Garrison was reported to be in such want that they eat their Horses, they were so closely be∣sieged by the Parliaments forces.

Captain Hains escaped from imprisonment by the Enemy.

Colonel Cromwell being made Lieutenant Gene∣ral * of the Earl of Manchester's Army, gave great satisfaction to the Commons touching the business of Donnington Castle, and seemed (but cautiously enough) to lay more blame on the Officers of the Lord General's Army, than upon any other. And the point of privilege was debated touching the Lords transmitting of a Charge from them before it was brought up to them.

This reflected upon Lieutenant General Cromwel, of whom the Lord General now began to have some jealousies, and was advised to put to his * strength to rid Cromwel out of the way, and the means to be used to effect this was supposed to be by the Scots Commissioners, who were not well pleased with Cromwel upon some words which he had spoken (as they apprehended) derogatory to the honour of their Nation.

One Evening very late Maynard and Whitelocke were sent for by the Lord General to Essex House, and there was no excuse to be admitted, nor did they know beforehand the occasion of their being sent for: when they came to Essex House, they were * brought to the Lord General, and with him were the Scots Commissioners, Mr. Hollis, Sir Philip Sta∣pleton, Sir Jo. Meyrick, and divers others of his special Friends.

After Complements, and that all were set down in Council, the Lord General spake to them to this effect.

Mr. Hollis, and Sir Philip Stapleton, and some o∣thers, spake smartly to the business, and mentioned some particular passages, and words of Cromwel tending to prove him to be an Incendiary, and they did not apprehend his interest in the House of Commons to be so much as was supposed; and they would willingly have been upon the accusa∣tion of him.

But the Scots Commissioners were not so forward to adventure upon it, for the reasons (they said did satisfie them) which were given by Maynard and Whitelocke, until a further inquiry were made of particulars for proof to make him an Incendiary, the which at length was generally consented to, and about two a clock in the Morning with thanks and Complements Maynard and Whitelocke were dismissed, they had some cause to believe, that at this debate, some who were present, were false brethren, and informed Cromwel of all that past among them, and after that, Cromwel, though he took no notice of any particular passages at that time, yet he seemed more kind to Whitelocke and Maynard than he had been formerly, and carried Page  113 on his design more actively of making way for his own advancement, as will appear in progress of this insuing story.

The Lord sent to the Commons that a speedy answer might be given to the Papers of the States Ambassadors, and for audience to be given to the French Agent, and a Committee was named, to consider of the manner of his reception.

A Report was made to the House by their Com∣mand, of the particular passages betwixt His Ma∣jesty, and the Committee that carried the Proposi∣tions to him, which they had forborn before to mention, but the House having an intimation there∣of, ordered the particular passages thereof to be Reported to-them, which was done, as I have mentioned them before.

The Commons ordered 6000 l. for providing store of Arms and Ammunition.

A party of the Newark horse being quartered near the Town, Colonel Thorney fell upon them, took 80 Horse, one Major, several inferiour Of∣ficers, 2 Colonels, 24 Troupers and Arms.

The Commons took order for setling Magi∣strates in Newcastle, though different from the Course of their Charter, and disfranchised some of their Aldermen.

The Parliaments Committee at Newcastle, sent up a great quantity of Coals for relief of the poor of London, whereof the Commons gave notice to the Lord Mayor, and orders for the distributing of them.

The Clause for Marriage in the Directory was agreed unto. An Ordinance past for relief of Soldi∣ers widdows.

Letters were ordered to several Counties for le∣vying Arrears due to the Army, and for the De∣puty Lieutenants and Committees to assist the Commissioners of Excise.

The Commons agreed to the reception of the States Ambassadors as formerly.

Sir William Massey was made one of the Assembly of Divines.

The Court Marshal adjudged Sir John Hotham to have his head cut off. *

Higgins, the Lord General's Trumpeter returned from Oxford, where he said he was more courte∣ously used than before; and that the King comman∣ded he should be kindly used, and rewarded; and that he was not, as formerly hoodwink'd, when they brought him in.

Prince Rupert by the King's direction sent a Let∣ter to the General for a safe Conduct for the Duke * of Richmond, and the Earl of Southampton, to bring unto the Parliament of England Assembled at West∣minster, and the Commissioners of the Parliament of the Kingdome of Scotland an answer of the Pro∣positions, lately presented to his Majesty, for a safe and well grounded peace.

The Commons voted that no Member of either * House of Parliament, shall during this war, injoy or execute any office or Command Military or Civil, and that an Ordinance be brought in accordingly. *

This was moved by Mr. Zouch Tate who brought it in with a similitude of a boyle upon his thumb, and was set on by that party who contrived the outing of the Lord General; and to bring on their own designes, and they could find no other way, than by passing a Self-denying Ordinance (as they called it) which would serve their turn, both as a speci∣ous pretence of their own integrity, and waving all self ends, and so plausible to the people, and would also comprehend the Lord General with the rest, and without naming of him, which for shame and ingratitude, they could not think fit to be done.

Some of them confest, that this was their design, and it was apparent in it self, and the reason of their doing this was to make way for others, and because they were jealous that the Lord General was too much a favourer of peace (a good fault in a General of an Army) and that he would be too strong a supporter of Monarchy, and of Nobility, and other old Constitutions, which they had a mind to alter; such is the ingratitude of people, and the incertainty of their Favour, no confidence can be placed therein for this gallant mans sake, who was a most faithful Servant to the publick, and performed so many brave services for them, to the utmost hazards of his own life, honour and fortune, and for all this had no other recompence, but an unhandsome affront by a side Wind, and cunning contrivance of his Enemies to remove him from his Commands, so gallantly and succesfully execu∣ted by him.

A safe Conduct was assented to, for the Duke of Richmond and the Earl of Southampton, and the Com∣mittee of both Kingdoms ordered to get the Con∣currence of the Scots Commissioners, and to send it with expedition to the King.

Major Duett with a party of Colonel Ludlow's Regiment fell upon a party of the King's horse near Salisbury, took Colonel Cooke, Lieutenant Colonel Hooker, divers inferiour Officers, 40 Souldiers, 160 Horse and Arms, and killed about 20 of them.

Sir John Hotham's Son Captain Hotham was try∣ed before the Court Marshal, for betraying a Regi∣ment of Horse of the Parliaments to the Enemy, and for treachery, and betraying his trust in divers particulars proved against him by his own words, letters and actions, and many witnesses produced to make good the Charge.

The States Ambassadors were received with great * State and Honour by both Houses; who thanked them for their offer of a Mediation of peace, and desired the Continuance of Amity and Friendship, with the High and Mighty Lords the States, but in regard, propositions for peace were now on foot between His Majesty and His Parliament, and the Scots Com∣missioners, nothing otherwise, could be now done therein.

The Ambassadors replyed in French, that they would return what they had received, to their Lords, and they desired a further answer to their propositions touching Free Trade.

When they were gon out of the House, the Spea∣ker desired that some of the Members who under∣stood the French Tongue better than he, might in∣terpret to the House the essect of the Ambassadors Speech in French, which usually was done by Mr. Hollis, and he being now absent, Whitelocke was called up to doe it; and thereupon the House named a Committee to consider of their Propositi∣ons for a Free Trade to the Ports of the Enemy.

An Ordinance past for satisfaction to Waggo∣ners, who lost their Carriages in the late Fights.

The Earl of Northampton with 3000 horse much infested part of Bucks and Oxfordshire, order was taken for money to pay the forces of those Coun∣ties to resist him.

Somerset-house was ordered to be prepared for the King's Commissioners, and voted that no Mem∣ber of either house should visit or speak with, or send or receive any Message to or from those that should come from Oxford, unless they had leave for it.

Liberty was given to any Members that would, to go visit Sir John Hotham before his death.

The Self-denying Ordinance was read, and a day of publick Fast Ordered.

Crowland was surrendred to the Parliaments Forces on Conditions, the Officers to march away with Swords and Pistols, the foot to leave Page  114 behind them their Arms, Ordnance and Ammuni∣tion.

The Petition of divers Londoners was read, commending the Vote for the Self-denying Ordi∣nance, and they again had the thanks of the House.

Colonel Massey fell upon a party of the King's at Sodbury near Bristol, took 120 Horse, 100 Arms, 50 Prisoners, and 12 Officers.

Captain Hotham made his defence before the * Court Marshal, and justified Treaties with the E∣nemy, as a Commander for the service of the Par∣liament, other charges he denyed, and excepted against some Witnesses.

The Commons Ordered that none but Members of the House should come to the Church, where they kept the Fast.

The Lords reprieved Sir John Hotham for a * few days, till he had better setled his Estate. Both Houses kept the Fast in Lincolns-Inn Chapel, and none were to be present there but the Members onely, and some said that the Preachers desired it might be so, that they might speak the more free∣ly to them, especially upon the point of the Self-denying Ordinance.

Both Houses agreed to receive the Lords that * were come from the King in the Painted Chamber, by a Committee of 14 Lords, and 28 Commo∣ners, and they desired from the Lords, a list of their retinue, to the end no affront might be offered to them.

Here of they had not cause to complain, as the Parliaments Commissioners had at Oxford, for these Lords, and all their attendance were civily treated by all sort of persons, and this Order for the list was the rather made, to discover such as came to Town with the Lords, under pretence of being of their retinue, when they were not, but came to do ill offices to the Parliament.

Sir Symonds D'ewes had an order to present a Minister to a Living in his gift.

Order was taken for raising of monies, for the English and Scots Armies in the North for certain Months.

Mr. Roger L'Estrange was apprehended, for a designe to betray Lynne in Norfolke to the King, * and for that end had a Treaty with Captain Lem∣mon Lieutenant Governour there, who shewed a Complyance with L'Estrange, but acquainted Co∣lonel Walton the Governour with all the passages, whereupon L'Estrange was seized upon; and with him was found a Commission from the King, Au∣thorizing him for this service, and engaging,

That if the Town were gained, That L'Estrange * should be Governour of it, and have great preferment, and what Rewards he should promise for effecting it, not exceeding 80001. should be paid, and divers other fair promises made, and this was noted to be, when the Treaty for peace was on foot.

The like design was for betraying St. Nicholas Island by Plymouth, but prevented by the Lord Roberts the Governour, the like was for the betray∣ing Stafford, prevented by Sir William Brereton, the like design was for betraying of Reading, disco∣vered by the apprehending of a Spy; who having lighted Matches put to his fingers, confessed all, and Alderman Harryson, and his Complotters were seized upon.

The Self-denying Ordinance passed the House of Commons, without excepting any Member.

The Committee of Lords and Commons recei∣ved the King's Answer to the Propositions for * peace, wherein the Parliament and the Commis∣sioners of Scotland were acknowledged, and the King desired, That in regard of the great Alteration in Government both of Church and State, imported in the Propositions: That the same, and Reasons for any Alteration, or Explanation of them, may be debated and weighed.

He therefore proposeth, that the Parliament would appoint such number of persons as they should think fit, to treat with the like number of persons to be appointed by his Majesty upon the said Propositions; and such other things as shall be proposed by his Majesty for pre∣servation and defence of the Protestant Religion, with due regard to tender Consciences, the Rights of the Crown, the Liberty and Propriety of the Subject, and the Privilege of Parliament; and upon the whole mat∣ter to conclude an happy and blessed Peace.

Taunton Castle was relieved by Colonel Hep∣burne, and Major Van Russe, and divers of the Be∣siegers taken prisoners.

The Protestant Forces and Subjects in Munster pe∣titioned the King's Commissioners against a fur∣ther Cessation of Arms there, which was to be treated on by those Commissioners with the Re∣bels.

The two Houses and the Scots Commissioners a∣greed * upon an Answer to the King's Message, sent by the Duke of Lenox, and the Earl of Southampton, That they did consent to a Treaty as was proposed; but in regard there were many things which will take up some time for preparation thereunto, both for the time and manner how to treat, they have sent back his Majestie's Messengers, and will return a speedy an∣swer by Messengers of their own.

They held this way the fitter to be taken, be∣cause those two Lords and their Company, were labouring and plotting whilst they were here, a∣gainst the Interest of the Parliament; which was intimated to them by a Petition from the Common Council of the City.

An Agent of the Queen of Swedland, addressed * himself to the Houses by Letters from the Queen, acquainting them that he had Matters of great Importance to communicate to them from the Queen his Mistres, and acknowledged the Parlia∣ment, and desired Audience.

The Self-denying Ordinance was again brought to the House to be preferred, and a Clause offered to be added, That it should not extend to any L. Lieu∣tenants, * Deputy Lieutenants, Justices of Peace, or Commissioners of Oyer and Terminer, who were Mem∣bers of either of the Houses of Parliaments.

Upon this Debate many spake against the Or∣dinance, and among the rest, one to this effect.

Mr. Speaker,

I am one of that number of your Servants, who have no Office or Imployment, but such as you are now about to except out of this Ordinance, nor have ambition for any; and therefore may the more freely and indiffe∣rently, yet with all submission, humbly offer my rea∣sons against it; as that which I apprehend may prove prejudicial to your Service.

It hath been objected, that your House, and the House of Lords is thin and empty, and you the less esteemed, having so few Members here; many of them being imployed in Offices, that they cannot attend the Houses: but that by this Ordinance they will be at lei∣sure and liberty to attend the Service of the Parlia∣ment here, and the Houses be much fuller than now they are.

I confess, Sir, this is fit to be remedied; but I ap∣prehend you have a fitter way, than by this Ordinance to doe it; 'that is, by issuing out new Writs for electing new Members in the places of those who are dead, or expelled, and this will satisfie the Objection, and en∣gage Page  115 divers of interest and quality the more immedi∣ately in your Service: Whereas this Ordinance will discontent many, and the Houses will be but little the fuller by the passing of it.

Another Objection is, that if this Ordinance do not pass, the Treaty for Peace will not so well proceed, but the particular Interests of Members of Parliament, may retard the same; but will be all taken away by this Ordinance.

I am to seek how this can be materially objected, when I suppose whether this Ordinance pass or not, yet you intend Members of Parliament only to be your Commissioners for that Treaty; and in case some of then be Officers, they will the better understand your businesses, on which the Treaty will be grounded.

Another Objection is, that unless this Ordinance pass, the great work intended of new modelling your Armies, will not so well be carried on, for that by put∣ting all out, there will remain no exception.

I should rather have argued, that by putting out all Members out of their Imployment, the exception and discontent would be the more general; and by leaving them still in their Imployments, there would be the less competition and sollicitation for new Officers in their rooms.

Another Objection or Argument is, that the Mem∣bers of Parliament, who are Officers, being of equal power in Parliament, will not be so obedient to your Commands, as others who have smaller interests, and would not so much dispute one with another.

Surely, Sir, those whose interest is the same with yours, have the more reason to obey your Commands than others, and have more to hazard by disobedience, than others can have; and in your Commands all your Members are involved, and it were strange if they should be backward to obey their own Orders.

Nor will the Contests be so frequent and high, be∣tween them and other Officers, as it will be between those who will be of a more equal condition.

But, Mr. Speaker, as you consider the inconveni∣ences, if this Ordinance do not pass, so you will be pleased to consider the Inconveniences if it do pass.

You will lay aside, as brave men, and who have ser∣ved you with as much courage, wisdom, faithfulness, and success, as ever men served their Country.

Our noble General, the Earls of Denbigh, War∣wick, Manchester; the Lords, Roberts, Willough∣by, and other Lords in your Armies, besides those in civil Offices not excepted; and of your own Members the Lord Grey, Lord Fairfax, Sir William Waller, Lieutenant General Cromwel, Mr. Hollis, Sir Phi∣lip Stapleton, Sir William Brereton, Sir John Meyrick, and many others must be laid aside, if you pass this Ordinance.

And I am to seek, and I doubt so will they be, to whom you shall refer the new modelling of your Ar∣mies; where to find Officers that shall excel, if equal these.

If your Judgments are, that for the Publick Ser∣vice it will be expedient to remove any of them from their Commands, let the same (if you please) be plainly made known to them from you.

Let them have what they deserve, your thanks for their former good Services, and they will not be of∣fended, that you having no more work for them, do lay them aside with honour.

But to do a business of this nature (às hath been well said) by a side Wind, is in my humble opinion, not so becoming your Honour and Wisdom, as Plain∣ness and Gravity, which are Ornaments to your Actions.

I shall conclude with the Example of the Grecians and Romans, amongst whom, Sir, you know, that the greatest Offices both of War and Peace, were conferred upon their Senatours; and their Reasons were, be∣cause they having greater Interests than others, were the more capable to doe them the greatest service.

And having the same interest with the Senate, and present at their Debates they understood their business the better, and were less apt to break that trust, which so nearly concerned their private interests, which was involved with the Publick; and the better they under∣stood their business, the better service might be expected from them.

Sir, I humbly submit the Application to your Judg∣ment, your Ancestors did the same; they thought the Members of Parliament fittest to be imployed in the greatest Offices: I hope you will be of the same judg∣ment, and not at this time to pass this Ordinance, and thereby to discourage your faithful Servants.

The Debate held till it was late at Night, and then upon the Question (as some called it) Envy and self-ends prevailing, the Ordinance passed the House of Commons, and was voted to be sent up to the Lords for their concurrence.

An Ordinance past for observation of the Fast-day, especially on the next Wednesday, being Christ-mas-day.

The Petition of the Lord Carbury was referred to a Committee for his Relief.

The Parliaments Answer to the King's Message * being delivered to the Duke of Richmond, and Earl of Southampton, they said, They had some fur∣ther matters from the King to impart to the two Hou∣ses; and desired to be heard of them: but the Committee answered, That they had not power to receive any new Message.

Then the Duke of Lenox demanded whether they might not deliver it to the Speakers of both Houses; the Committee said, That they could not give advice therein. But this being reported to the Houses, they ordered the Committee to receive from those Lords what they had to offer further from the King.

Mr. Pierpoint carried up to the Lords the Self-denying Ordinance.

The two Lords from the King delivered in a Paper to the Committee, declaring, The willing∣ness of his Majesty that no time should be lost in bring∣ing on the Treaty, and to desire that Commissioners might be then nominated: to which was returned, That they had already the answer of both Houses, and of the Scots Commissioners, which the Parliament desired might be presented to his Majesty at Ox∣ford.

The Lord Digby treated about ten weeks toge∣ther, by Messengers and Letters, with Major Ge∣neral Brown to betray Abington, making offers to him of great Preferment and Reward. The Major General wrote to a Friend about it, and desired his advice in it, who counselled him to entertain the Treaty, to shew a compliance with Digby, and to give fair hopes of effecting what he desired, and in the mean time to get the Works about the Town finished.

This was agreeable to the opinion of the Major Gener. and he had begun the Treaty with the Lord Digby, and carried it along with great hopes to the Lord, to have the Town surrendred, and that his Wit and Eloquence had prevailed with the Woodmonger, as he styled him.

Brown gave an account of all the Letters and Passages from time to time between them; and he was encouraged to carry on the Design, even to the appointment of a day for payment of money to him; and for his rendition of the Town to Digby, and even to the permission of part of the King's Forces to enter the Town, and then to fall upon them.

Page  116 But Brown thought it not good to proceed so far; but after so much time spent in Treaty and expectation, Digby required the Town to be ren∣dred by a positive day, but Brown having well fi∣nished his Works, gave his Lordship a positive denial, which much enraged him.

The Reasons of the dissenting Brethren to the * Directory of the Church-government by Presbyters, with the Answers to those Reasons, were pre∣sented to the House, and a day appointed for the debate of them.

An Ordinance past for Sir Thomas Allen's compo∣sition for Delinquency.

Knasborough was surrendred to the Parliament upon conditions, and there was taken four pieces of Ordnance, store of Arms, Money, and 1500 l. worth of Plate.

Letters from the Committee of Kent informed, That the King had lately sent three Commissions into Kent, one for the betraying of Dover-Castle, another for Chattam, and some Ships, and the third to Array men in the West of Kent. All which were discover∣ed, and the execution of them prevented; one of the Commissions was dated when the Committee were at Oxford, with Propositions for Peace.

Captain Redman with a Party from Northampton, set upon a party of the King's Forces going to Ban∣bury, took Prisoners the L. St. Paul a French-man, Sir John Fenwicke, two of the Stricklands, fifteen others, thirty Horse and Arms, and a Sumpter with rich Clothes.

Colonel Thorney with a party from Nottingham, took in a Garrison of the King's near Newarke, and in it the Master of the house Sir Roger Cooper and his Brother, and fifty others prisoners with their Arms.

Decemb. 23. Sir Alexander Carew by Sentence of the Court-Marshal was beheaded. *

The Commons voted to refer the consideration of the manner of the Treaty upon the Propositions for Peace, to the Committee of both Kingdoms, but the Lords were for a new Committee for it.

The Court-Marshal pronounced Sentence of death against Captain Hotham.

The Lords having voted the Archbishop Guilty * of the Matters charged against him for matter of Fact, desired satisfaction from the Commons in point of Law, that those Matters were Treason.

The Commons ordered the removal of their Forces from the Counties near London, near to the Enemy to streighten them, and to be in readiness to attend their motions.

Letters from Sir Anthony Ashley Cooper, inform∣ed of the Relief of Taunton Town and Castle, held * out to admiration, by Colonel Blake, notwith∣standing his great want of Ammunition and Pro∣visions, and that the Works there were inconsi∣derable.

Colonel Edward Windham sent a threatning Sum∣mons to Blake to render the Town and Castle, up∣on pain of fire and sword, and perswaded the doing of it, because of the indefencibleness of the place, and to prevent the effusion of more Christian blood.

Blake returned this Answer;

Not long after this a strong party of the Parlia∣ments Forces brake through the Besiegers, and sup∣plyed the Town with store of Provisions, and what they wanted.

The Commons made an Order for the better payment of the 10000 l. per annum formerly gran∣ted to the Lord General, out of Delinquents E∣states, * in consideration of his great losses by the Enemy, and his ever to be remembred good Services: This was put on now by some to sweeten him, upon the transmitting of the Self-denying Ordinance.

The Commons voted to hear no private busi∣ness for ten days.

Mr. Roger Lestrange was tryed for a Spy before the Court-Marshal, coming from the King's quar∣ters, without Drum, Trumpet, or Pass, to betray Lynne Garrison.

Sir Thomas Middleton, and Colonel Mitton took in a Garrison of the King's near Mountgomery, and in it Colonel Ballard the Governour, Llayd the high Sheriff, divers Officers, two Foot Colours, sixty common Souldiers, with store of Arms and Pillage.

The Assembly of Divines presented to the House some further Additions to the Directory for Wor∣ship.

Much time was spent to settle the payment of the Northern Armies, and to enable the Scots to march Southwards.

The Commons concluded their Debate upon the Directory for Worship.

A Letter was agreed to be written to the Par∣liament of Scotland from both Houses here, to ex∣press the great ingagement of this Kingdom to them for their brotherly assistance.

The Lords upon the Petition of Sir John Ho∣tham, * and his Son, thought fit to pardon the Fa∣ther, and desired the Concurrence of the Commons therein; but upon the Question, it was carried in the Negative, not to be taken by them into con∣sideration.

The Court-Marshal gave judgment upon Mr. Lestrange.

The Commons passed an Ordinance for continu∣ing the Court-Marshal for three Months longer, and another for disfranchizing some Aldermen of York.

The Commons ordered the Commissioners of the Great Seal, to issue out the Sheriffs Patents to the Messengers of the Seal.

The Lords debated the Self-denying Ordinance.

They concurred with the Commons to refer the business of the Treaty upon the Propositions for Peace to the Committee of both Kingdoms.

Major General Brown marched out with a Party towards Oxford, and was near taking the Fort Roy∣all there; but his Design was discovered and pre∣vented, yet he brought away forty men and horse with him.

Several Orders were made for Money for the Scots, and other Armies, and for supply of the For∣ces in Ireland.

Divers of Bucks petitioned against the Outra∣ges of the Parliaments Forces in that County.

Colonel Bulstrode was made Governour of Hen∣ley, and Phillis Court, but he was shortly after called away to his Regiment, and Colonel Charles Doyley made Governour there. But he and the Souldiers falling out, they had like to have killed him, and he would stay there no longer; and Colonel Piuter Temple succeeded him.

Sir John Hotham, was going to his Execution, and * much company expecting it on Tower-hill, when a Messenger came with a Reprieve from the Lords: But the Commons sent to the Lieutenant of the Tower, to know the reason of deferring the Execu∣tion, when they did not consent to any Reprieve for him.

Page  117 The Lord Fairfax his forces took in Pomfret Town, and close blocked up the Castle, and other Castles thereabouts.

Colonel Bright fell upon a party of the King's under Sir William Cobbes, took divers Officers and Souldiers, and good Horses from them.

A party of the Newark forces in the night time surprized some of the Parliaments forces, and took near two Troups of them.

The Leicester forces drove the forces of Hastings out of Ashby-Town into the Tower, and took divers Prisoners and Arms.

Prince Maurice laid down his Commission for the West, and the Lord Hopton was made General there, and laboured to get a new Army.

January 1644. The Directory for Worship was finished by the Commons, and sent up to the Lords by Mr. Rouse.

Upon the Debate touching the Reprieve of Sir Jo. Hotham by the Lords, the Commons voted, * that no Officer made by Ordinance of both Houses, should stay the execution of Justice by any order of either House, without the concurrence of both Houses.

They likewise ordered that the Lieutenant of the Tower do proceed to the Execution of Sir John Hotham, according to the Sentence of the Court Marshal.

Captain Hotham, his Son, sent a Petition to the * Lords, and another to the Commons, praying his Pardon, but it was denied, and the same day his Head was cut off.

Mr. L'Estrange petitioned the Lords, that his Case might be heard before the Parliament, which was consented to by both Houses.

Letters were ordered to be written by the Speaker to Sussex, Surrey and Hampshire, for raising of Dragoons formerly undertaken.

One hundred and fifty horse from Oxford posses∣sed themselves of Beselsley, Mr. Speaker's House near Abington, intending to fortifie it, but Major General Brown sent out a party under Colonel Bos∣wel, to whom upon his summons they rendered the House on conditions to march away, onely one who had formerly broke Prison at Abington, was denied that favour.

Sergeant Wilde, Mr. Brown, and Mr. Nicholas, offered Reasons and Arguments to the Lords, that the Matters proved against the Archbishop were Trea∣son.

An Answer was ordered to be given to the Pa∣pers of the Scots Commissioners, to be sent by them to the Parliament of Scotland.

A Committee of both Houses was named to re∣ceive from the Sweedish Agent some matters which (he said) he had further to impart to them from the Queen.

Sir John Hotham in the Morning before his Exe∣cution, procured a motion in the House of Com∣mons * for his Pardon, which took up a Debate; and Sir John being brought to the Scaffold on Tower-hill, expected the good news of his Pardon, and the time was protracted till two a Clock in the Af∣ternoon, but the Commons would not grant his desire.

He spake shortly to the people, and Mr. Peters * prayed with him, and spake to the people in his Name, and told them that Sir John's Father said to him, when he was going forth to be a Souldier, Son, when the Crown of England lies at stake, you will have fighting enough. He was somewhat fearfull of death, and his head was cut off.

The Committee of both Kingdoms reported their opinion to the Lords, That the place for the * Treaty of Peace should be Uxbridge, and the Commissi∣oners to be four Lords, and eight Commoners, and four Scots Commissioners, to which the Lords agreed, and sent to the Commons for their concurrence.

Both Houses agreed to send Commissioners to the Parliament and Assembly in Scotland.

The Queen of Sweden's Letter to the Parliament * was read, and contained a Narrative of the King of Denmark's hard usage of the Crown of Sweden, and the great affection that Queen bears to Eng∣land.

The Directory of Worship was fully agreed up∣on by both Houses, and ordered to be printed, and two of the Assembly to take care thereof, and that a course shall be taken for publishing and set∣tling of it to be generally used.

The Commons ordered that the Assembly of Di∣vines should write a Congratulatory Letter to the Assembly in Scotland; and to acquaint them what they had done, and that the Parliament here had agreed in those Matters.

The Lords agreed to the Ordinance for Attain∣der of the Archbishop of High Treason, and to be * hanged, drawn and quarter'd for it.

The Commons agreed that the place for the * Treaty should be Ʋxbridge, the Commissioners for the Parliament to be sixteen, and as many for the King.

The Propositions touching Religion, the Mili∣tia, and Ireland, to be first treated on, and twenty Days allotted for them, that his Majestie's Propo∣sitions be received by the Parliaments Commissio∣ners at Ʋxbridge, and transmitted to the Parlia∣ment.

The Commons proceeded to the Directory for the Government of the Church, and voted upon a long Debate, That to have a Presbytery in the Church is according to the word of God.

The Commons sent to the Lords for their con∣currence to a Warrant, for the Execution of the Archbishop according to the Ordinance for his At∣tainder, * to which the Lords agreed; and a War∣rant issued to the Lieutenant of the Tower, to de∣liver the Prisoner to the Sheriffs of London, to see Execution done accordingly.

The Parliaments forces that relieved Taunton, in their Retreat fell upon the Enemies Quarters, and took many horse, and divers prisoners.

Colonel Ludlow's Regiment thinking themselves secure in their Quarters at Salisbury, about 200 of them were surprised; the Colonel and the rest brake through, and got to Southampton, and took Colonel Fielding and some others Prisoners.

The Scots forces got the Town of Carlisle, and the King's forces in the Castle sent to Treat.

The Lord Fairfax possessed Pomfret Town, and close blocked up the Castle, and Scarborough, Skip∣ton and Sandal Castles were blocked up by the Par∣liaments forces.

Ordinances passed for payment of 6000 l. lent by the Commissioners of Excise, and 10000 l. lent by Mr. Estwick.

The Lords at a Conference gave Reasons to the Commons against passing the Self-denying Ordi∣nance, wherein they affirmed the honour of Peerage to be so much concerned; and the Commons ordered a Committee to draw up Reasons in Answer to those delivered by the Lords.

The Lords acquainted the Commons with a Pe∣tition from the Archbishop, and a Pardon granted * to him by the King, under the Great Seal, two years since. but it was denied by both Houses, be∣ing granted before conviction, and if it had been after, yet in this case of Treason against the Kingdom, they said it could not be available.

His Petition was, That in case he must die, that he might be Beheaded, not Hanged, and that three of * Page  118 his Chaplains, Dr. Heyward, Dr. Martin, and Dr. Stern, might be with him before, and at his death, for his Souls Comfort.

The Commons denied both, onely allowed Dr. Stern with Mr. Marshal and Mr. Palmer to be with him.

The Sheriffs of London attended in person to know the manner of the execution of the Archbi∣shop, for which they were referred to the warrant of both Houses that he should be hanged, drawn and quartered.

Divers of the Lord General's Officers of Foot * petitioned the Commons, and very modestly, for the better discipline of the Army, for which the House gave them thanks: but this was looked up∣on by some as an ill precedent, for Officers of the Army to petition the Parliament, and it proved so afterwards.

The Commons being informed that a party of about 5000 horse and foot of the King's were near Peterfield, and had taken Christ-church, and were drawing towards Surrey, to disturb that association, they sent some of their Members to the Lord Gene∣ral, and to the Earl of Manchester, to give an ac∣count why their forces lay quartered on their Friends near London, and did not remove nearer to the Enemy, according to former directions.

At this time the Earl of Manchester was under a * kind of accusation, and the Lord General in dis∣content, Sir William Waller not much otherwise, the forces not carefully ordered, and the Parlia∣ments business but in an unsettled condition; so that it was high time for some other course to be taken by them.

The Commons appointed an Ordinance to be brought in for the ease of free quarter.

The Lords sent another Petition from the Arch-bishop * to the Commons, that he might not be hanged but beheaded, and the Lords gave their reasons why they had assented to it; and after some debate the Commons agreed to it also.

Order was made for provision for some of the Assembly of Divines who had lost their means by the Enemy.

Colonel Holborn with the forces under him that relieved Taunton, took about 200 of the King's horse near Bridgewater.

Provisions were ordered to be sent by Mr. Davies for Ireland.

The Commons agreed with the Lords in an Or∣dinance for the Lady Wilmot, who professed much affection to the Parliament, and agreed for pardon of some condemned Prisoners in Newgate.

The Commons offered their reasons to the * Lords for passing the Self-denying Ordinance, and shewing the breach of privilege in sending to the Commons their Lordships reasons without the Or∣dinance.

The Commons gave order to the Commissioners of the Great Seal, to issue out the Patents for new Sheriffs.

The Commons debated the model of the new Militia, and it was propounded that the Army should be 21000 horse and foot.

Jan. 10. The Archbishop was brought to the * Scaffold on Tower Hill, and made a Speech to the people (as he called it) his last Sermon, in which he endeavoured to excuse the Matters charged a∣gainst him, and professed himself of the Religion of the Church of England, as it stands established by Law, then he prayed to God to bless the Parliament, & to direct them that they may not fall under any misgovernment.

He concluded thus. I forgive all the world, all and every one, bitter enemies, or others, whatsoever they have been, which have any ways prosecuted me in this case, and I humble desire to be forgiven, first of God, then of man; whether I have offended them, or they think I have, Lord forgive them, and now I desire you to joyn with me in Prayer.

Then he made a short Prayer audibly, kneeling at the Rail, after that, putting off his Cloaths, Coat and Doublet, he kneeled to the Block, and upon a sign given, the Executioner took off his Head at one blow. *

The Lord General and Earl of Manchester retur∣ned answer to the Parliament concerning the remo∣val of the Army nearer to the Enemy.

The Commons desired the Lords to use expedi∣tion in passing the Self-denying Ordinance, for that the Kingdom suffered much for want of passing it.

They permitted a Certificate to be made of the Judgment in the King's Bench against the Duke D'Espernon.

They debated about the new Model of the Army.

The Lords delivered to the Commons further Reasons against the passing of the Self-denying Or∣dinance, but the Commons ordered, that their whole House should go up with a Message to the House of Peers for the speedy passing of it; and they acquainted the Lords with their Order to ex∣clude all private business for eight days longer.

Captain Swanley took a Ship, and in her the Commissioners sent from Ireland to treat with the King about a further Cessation, with the King's Commission under the Great Seal, and instructions about concluding a Peace with the Rebels of Ire∣land.

The whole House of Commons went up to the Lords, with a Message to importune them to pass the Self-denying Ordinance, the Lords returned an∣swer, that they would speedily take the same into consi∣deration, which they did, but rejected the Ordi∣nance; * and here first began to increase the great difference between the two Houses of Parliament, which swelled to so great a height as you will see afterwards.

The Commons proceeded about the Model of * the Army, and resolved that it should be 21000 Horse and Foot, 6000 Horse, 1000 Dragoons, and 14000 Foot: the 6000 Horse to be divided into ten Regiments, the Dragoons into single Compa∣nies, and every Regiment of Foot to consist of 1200 Men, and ten Companies in a Regiment; the whole charge of this Army to be 44955 l. by the Month, to be raised by a proportionable Assesse∣ment.

The Lords sent to the Commons the names of their Commissioners, the Earls of Northumber∣land, Pembroke, Salisbury, and Denbigh; and that a Letter be sent to the King for a Safe Conduct for all the Commissioners for the Treaty of Peace; but the Commons did not now name their Com∣missioners because of the rejecting of the Self-deny∣ing Ordinance.

They also sent to the Commons to come to some resolution concerning the business of Dunnington Castle.

The King's forces under General Goring went off from near Portsmouth, and upon their remove Colonel Jephson the Governour visited their quar∣ters, and took some Prisoners.

Colonel Mitton from Oswestree fell upon three Troups of Sir Jo. Byron, took two Captains, other Officers, nineteen Troupers and Arms.

The Commons named their Commissioners for the Treaty, Mr. Pierpoint, Mr. Hollis, L. Wenman, Sir Henry Vane Junior, Mr. St. John, Mr. White∣locke, * Mr. Crew, Mr. Prideaux; and they agreed that the number of the Attendants of the Parlia∣ments Commissioners should be eighty.

Page  119 The Commons voted a Commission for the Lord Inchequin to be President of Munster, and sent it to the Lords for their Concurrence, and a warrant to the Commissioners of the Great Seal to pass the said Commission.

The Commons passed another Vote, That many Congregations may be under one Presbyterian Govern∣ment, in order to the Directory for government of the Church.

The Lords agreed to the Ordinance for regula∣tion of Free Quarter, with a Clause added, to ex∣empt themselves and their Attendants, and the Members of the House of Commons, from billeting Souldiers; which the Commons would not agree unto, they desiring to be in no other condition than their Fellow Subjects were.

Letters from Major General Brown certified that three days before P. Rupert, P. Maurice, Colonel Sir Henry Gage, Governour of Oxford, and others, with a party of about 1000 Horse, and 800 Foot, came against Abington, on Cullam side, intending to storm the Town; and gained the Bridge before notice was given, and were about to pull the same down.

To prevent which, the Cawsey to the Bridge being very long and narrow, Brown was compelled * to send some of his men into the Meadow where was much water, notwithstanding with much chear∣fulness they marched through the water.

And after a hot dispute which lasted near four hours, they beat the Enemy from the Bridge, who betaking themselves to the Hedges, Brown's men with wondrous courage beat them from the Hedges, and afterwards quite out of the Field.

A party of his horse at the same time, when a party of the King's fell on them in their Quarters, slew, wounded and took almost all of them, in which service Major Bradbury was slain upon the Bridge, and about eight of Brown's Souldiers, and some wounded.

Of the King's party were •lain Sir Henry Gage, and the Major of the Prince's Regiment, with ma∣ny others of note, and they carried away a Cart-load of dead men, besides those carried away on Horseback.

The Commons ordered thanks to be sent to Ma∣jor General Brown for his good service, and 2000 l. to pay his Souldiers.

Letters from Captain Swanley informed, that Major General Laughern took the Town of Cardi∣gan in Wales upon surrender, but the Castle hold∣ing out obstinately, he made a breach with his great Ordnance, and in three days took it by storm, and in it 200 Officers and Souldiers, with their Arms, and much Plunder.

The States Ambassadours desired to take their leaves, and a Pass to goe to the King to take leave of him; they prayed likewise an Answer to their Propositions, touching Shipping and Free Trade, which was referred to the Committee of both Hou∣ses for this business.

The Lords concurred in the Letter and Money for Abington.

The Lords sent down the names of the Atten∣dants of the four Lords Commissioners for the Treaty, desiring the Commons to doe the like for their Members, and they ordered them to bring in a List the next day.

The Commons proceeded in the Directory for Church Government, and voted Pastors, Doctors, Teachers, Elders and Deacons, to be the Officers of the Church.

Sir Richard Greenvile made a gallant assault up∣on Plymouth, and possessed two or three of the Out-works, and turned the Ordnance against the Town, but the Garrison with great resolution, beat them out again, and slew many of them.

The Commons ordered Sir William Waller for the present to command in chief in the West, with a party of 6000 Horse.

A Ship of Scarborough driven by storm into Hartlepoole, was there seized on by the Parliaments forces, and in her two Brass and four Iron Pieces of Ordnance, with store of Arms.

Sir Thomas Fairfax and Colonel Forbes standing together near Pomfret Castle, a Cannon Bullet from thence came betwixt them, and the wind of it beat them both to the ground, and put out one of Co∣lonel Forbes his Eyes, and spoiled that side of his Face, and yet no other hurt to Sir Thomas Fairfax.

The Commons considered the business of the Navy at Sea for the next Spring, and the estimate of the yearly charge both for Summer and Winter Guard was proposed to be 100000 l. per annum.

Letters from the Lord Roberts informed the par∣ticulars * of the business at Plymouth, that Greenvile alarmed the works about the Town, in four several places, and after a very hot dispute, became Ma∣ster of one great work, but was beaten off from the other three works, with great loss, leaving 75 of his men dead upon the place, and at least four times as many more slain in the service, and many hun∣dreds wounded.

As soon as they were beaten off the three works, the Plymouth men (who behaved themselves with extraordinary gallantry) environed the fourth work, and the Enemy presently surrendred it upon quarter; there were many Prisoners taken, and much Arms.

The House took care for supply of that Garrison.

One Dobson was ordered to be tried for contri∣ving and printing a scandalous Book against the Parliament, and the Lord General, and they gave order for suppressing all scandalous Pamphlets.

Some who arrested a Servant of Sir Edward Hun∣gerford's were sent for as Delinquents.

The Letter to the King about the Treaty was finished, and Mr. Marshal and Mr. Vines appointed for the two Ministers to attend the Commoners.

Sir Peter Killegrew was sent with the Letters to the King, and was to bring back a List of the King's Commissioners for the Treaty, and of their At∣tendants.

An Ordinance read and referred to a Committee of the whole House, for laying the Assessment for the Armies upon the several Counties.

They appointed a day to consider of the business of Dunnington Castle, and the Earl of Manchester.

The Lord Savile Earl of Sussex, the Lord Piercy, and the Lord Andover, were consined at Oxford.

The business of Dunnington Castle, and of the Earl of Manchester, was taken into consideration, and a weeks time given for the Earl to be heard therein if he please.

An affront done to the Commissioners of Excise in Lancashire, was referred to examination, and the House resolved to be severe in upholding the power of the Commissioners.

The Sergeant at Arms was sent to apprehend one as a Delinquent, for serving of a Sub poena upon a Member of the House of Commons.

Goring with his forces coming before Christ-church, were beaten back by Major Lower, and many of them killed.

The Commons proceeded in the business of the new Model of the Army, and nominated Sir Tho. Fairfax to command in chief, and Colonel Mid∣dleton, Holborn, Fortescue and Barkley tobe four of the Colonels.

Then they appointed a Committee to consider Page  120 what honour should be conferred on the Earl of Essex, for his fidelity and good services to the pub∣lick; the like for Sir William Belfour, and to settle the payment of their Arrears to such as should not be employed in the new establishment.

The Commons proceeded upon the Ordinance for the new Assesment.

Colonel Lambert was ordered to speed down into the North, to take care of the forces there (he being Commissary General of the Lord Fairfax his Army) when Sir Thomas Fairfax should come up.

Colonel Holborn took in the King's Garrison at Sydenham-house, and therein about 100 Prisoners, and the High Sheriff of Somersetshire, and ten Com∣missioners of Array; and after that he fell upon the Lord Hopton's forces going to joyn with Green∣vile, took some hundreds of them, and drove the rest to Bristol.

The King made Prince Maurice General of Worcester, Hereford and Shropshire, and some of his forces began to fortifie Cambden-house.

Letters from Secretary Nicholas intercepted, gave no hopes of Peace upon the intended Treaty.

Sir Peter Killegrew returned from Oxford with the King's Answer concerning the Treaty, and the names of the King's Commissioners, with a Safe Conduct, and Propositions from the King to be treated on.

The Safe Conduct was inclosed in a Letter from P. Rupert to the Earl of Essex, and was to this effect.

The King's Propositions were Signed likewise, Edw. Nicholas.

The Names of the King's Commissioners ap∣pointed for the Treaty, for whom Prince Rupert desired a Safe Conduct from the Parliament, were these. The Duke of Richmond, Marquess Hert∣ford, Earl of Southampton, Earl of Kingston, Earl of Chichester, Lord Seymour, Lord Hatton, Lord Capel, Lord Culpepper, Sir Orlando Bridgman, Sir Edward Nicholas, Secretary, Sir Edward Hyde, Sir Richard Lane, Sir Thomas Gardiner, Mr. John Ashburnham, Mr. Geoffrey Palmer, with Dr. Stewart, Dr. Laney, Dr. Shelden, and their Attendants; in all to the number of 108.

They were to meet with the Parliaments Com∣missioners on Wednesday the 29. of January, at Ʋx∣bridge upon the Treaty for Peace.

The States Ambassadours were satisfied with the Answer of the Parliament to their Papers, and said they would acquaint the States therewith, ex∣pressing their good affections to the Parliament.

The Commons in a grand Committee further * debated the Ordinance for new Modelling the Ar∣my, and inserted therein the names of Sir Thomas Fairfax, and of Major General Skippon.

They proceeded upon the Directory for Church * Government, and voted, that several Congrega∣tions be under one Classis; and that the Church be governed by Congregational, Classical, Synodical Assemblies, and that there shall be one at least in every particular Congregation, to labour in the word and doctrine.

Both Houses referred the Papers of the Treaty to the Committee of both Kingdoms to consider what is fit to be done, and ordered that the Mini∣sters in their several Congregations on the next Wednesday, the day of the publick Fast, and of the beginning of the Treaty, should pray to God for his blessing upon it.

Both Houses ordered that the Lord Macquire should come to his Trial in the King's Bench.

A difference was between the two Houses touch∣ing * the Safe Conduct for the King's Commissioners, the Committee of both Kingdoms having altered some of their Titles given them by the King, since the Great Seal was carried away from the Parlia∣ment, as the Earl of Chichester they called Lord Dunsmore; Lord Culpepper, Sir John Culpepper; Lord Hatton, Sir Christopher Hatton; and the new made Knights they called Mr. Hyde, Mr. Lane, and Mr. Bridgeman.

The Lords gave their Reasons why the new Ti∣tles should be given in the Safe Conduct, the Com∣mons gave Reasons against it, as contrary to one of their Propositions, and at length, the Titles were agreed to be altered.

A Petition from Bedfordshire complained of the unruliness of the Souldiers there, taking Horses in Markets from the Countrey people, and then making them to redeem them again for mo∣ney, and particularly against one Captain Craw∣ford.

The like from Sussex and Bucks, and complain∣ing of the ravishing of Women, and murthering of Men, to redress which evils a Committee was ap∣pointed to consider.

These were the Fruits of Civil War, Robberies, Ravishings, and innumerable Wicked actions, committed by the barbarous Souldiers, to the un∣speakable Misery of the poor Countrey.

The Commons further Debated upon the Ordi∣nance for the new Model of the Army, and for the Assessment for their pay, and ordered the Page  121 Members of each County to bring in names of Commissioners for the Assessement in every County.

About 1100 of the King's horse and foot issued out of Chester, and fell upon Sir William Brereton's quarters, and to relieve Beeston Castle, closely be∣sieged * by Brereton; who hearing of the Enemies coming, drew out a party to encounter them: they placed their Ambuscadoes, which the Parlia∣ments brake through, and routed the Enemy.

They took of them prisoners, Colonel Worden, Colonel Ware, divers other Officers, 200 common Souldiers, as many horse and arms, and killed and wounded a great number of them: this party of the Parliament was commanded, the horse by Lieute∣nant Col. Jones, and the foot by Major Louthian.

News was brought that a Merchants ship from London, bound for the East Indies, revolted to the King, and went to Bristol, having in her 28 pieces of Ordnance, and above 30000 l. in Goods.

A party of the King's forces from Newark, came forth to gather Contribution, and took prisoners some Countrymen that were in arrear: the Com∣mittee of Nottingham having notice thereof, sent forth a party, who pursuing those of Newark, they left their prisoners, and five or six of their men be∣hind, and hasted to their quarters.

Nottingham men followed them close, and so far that another party of the Newark forces came forth upon them, routed them, recovered their priso∣ners, and took of the Parliaments party Major Meldrum, Lieutenant Smith, and about 28 Souldi∣ers, with their arms and horses.

The Commons resumed the Debate about the new Titles of the King's Commissioners, in the * Safe Conduct for them, and at last it was agreed, That the new made Knights should have that Title gi∣ven them, because it was not a Title under the Great Seal.

And for the new made Earl, and the two new Lords, their new Titles were not given them in the Safe Conduct because they were granted by the King, after the Great Seal was carried away from the Parliament, and so Sir Peter Killegrew was sent away towards Oxford, with the Safe Conduct thus corrected.

The Commons were moved for the Exchange of the Lord Brereton for Sir John Northcot; but they denied it till his Lordship should declare the busi∣ness of the killing of divers of the Parliaments friends in cold blood at Nantwich.

The City petitioned the supply of Plymouth, which had been two years besieged, and concern∣ing matters of Trade, and had thanks for their care.

The Commons finished the Ordinance for the new model of the Armies, and past several Votes concerning Church Government.

Sir Peter Killegrew who went to Oxford on Sa∣turday, returned on Monday with the King's An∣swer, That he waved the matters of honour, and was content that his Commissioners should treat under those Titles that were admitted by the Parlia∣ment.

A complaint was made against Colonel Harvey by several Petitions, particularly by Mr. Squire concerning 3000 l. taken from him by the Colonel, or some of his Officers, which was referred to a Committee to be examined.

Divers Compositions of Delinquents were al∣lowed.

The Ordinance for raising and maintaining forces under the command of Sir Thomas Fairfax, was sent up to the Lords.

An Ordinance was read for enabling the Scots to march Southwards.

Sir Charles Sherley and Mr. Devereux were sent for as Delinquents, for sending a Challenge to a Member of the House of Commons, who was also sent for.

Both Houses agreed that the three first days of * the Treaty should be for Religion, the three next for the Militia, and another three days for Ireland, and so alternis vicibus, and sent these Votes to the Committee of both Kingdoms for the concurrence of the Scots Commissioners, who desired some alte∣rations; upon which the Commons debated till ten at night, and then adjourned the Debate till the next morning though it were the Fast Day.

Colonel Craford going from Aylesbury with * about 80 horse to seek quarters, met with about 120 of the King's men under Colonel Blake, Go∣vernour of Wallingford; and after a hot Dispute between them, he routed Blake, whom Cra∣ford wounded in a single charge between them two.

Blake escaped by the goodness of his horse, all his men except 14 were killed and taken, and some few desperately wounded, and Craford lost but three men, and some wounded.

News came from the West, that Greenvile, in discontent, had pistolled Colonel Champernoun and his Brother.

The Commons sate all the Fast Day about the * business of the Treaty, the Lords sate in the after-noon, and at length all was agreed with the Scots Commissioners, that the Treaty is to be upon the three Propositions in order, three days upon each, and to begin with Religion.

And now some began to observe the difficulty, if * not inconvenience, of carrying on their affairs with a concurrence of Commissioners of another Kingdom, whereupon grew delays and difference of opinions, and not overmuch inclination to sub∣mit to reason, more than to will.

Letters from Colonel Jephson informed, that Goring's forces had much endeavoured, and offered great rewards for the betraying of Portsea-bridge; and some who complied with him were apprehen∣ded: that Goring was in Normandy beating up Drums for Souldiers to come for England.

A party of Goring's forces fell upon the quarters of some of the Parliaments forces near Farnham, took forty Prisoners, two Colours, killed five or six of their Foot, burnt a Barn full of Corn, four Houses, and set fire on several parts of the Town.

The Commons ordered Sir William Waller into the West to prevent these mischiefs.

The Covenant was ordered to be read in the Churches every Fast-day.

The Commons ordered a Letter for the speedy * bringing up of the Scottish Army, but many were not satisfied therewith.

A party of the King's from Dunnington and Ba∣zing, going to joyn with the Lord Hopton, by the way plundered the Countrey, and surprized the West-countrey Carriers. Colonel Devereux with a party from Marlborough fell upon them, took Prisoners Sir Anthony Saint Leger their Comman∣der in chief, Major Hyde, divers other Officers, 30 Troupers, 50 Horse and Arms, and rescued the plunder.

Colonel Lucas was put out by the King from be∣ing Governour of Belvoir Castle, and Sir Guy Palms put in his place: and Sir John Byron was removed from being Governour of Newark upon jealousie, that he held correspondence with some of the Par∣liaments party.

The King's Garrison in Latham-house (as was informed) contrary to an agreement and cessa∣tion Page  122 of Arms, •allied out, and did much mischief to the Parliaments friends.

Jan. 29. The Commissioners for the Treaty on both parts met at Ʋxbridge, and had their several quarters; those for the Parliament and all their * Retinue on the North side of the Town, and those for the King on the South side, and no intermix∣ture of the one party of their Attendants with the other: the best Inn of the one side was the Rendez∣vous of the Parliaments Commissioners, and the best Inn of the other side of the Street was for the King's Commissioners.

The Evening that they came to Town several Visits passed between particular Commissioners of either party; as Sir Edward Hyde came to visit Mr. Hollis and Mr. Whitelocke, the Lord Culpepper visited Sir Henry Vane, and others of the King's Commissioners visited several of the Parliaments Commissioners, and had long Discourses about the Treaty, and to perswade one another to a com∣pliance.

Mr. Whitelocke visited Sir Edward Hyde, and Mr. Palmer, and Sir Richard Lane, and others, and se∣veral of the Parliaments Commissioners visited di∣vers of the King's Commissioners, and had dis∣courses with them tending to the furtherance of the business of the Treaty.

The Town was so exceeding full of company, that it was hard to get any quarter except for the Commissioners and their Retinue; and some of the Commissioners were forced to lie two of them in a Chamber together in Field Beds, onely upon a Quilt, in that cold weather not coming into a Bed during all the Treaty.

This place being within the Parliaments quar∣ters, their Commissioners were the more civil, and desirous to afford accommodations to the King's Commissioners, and they thought it fit to appoint Sir John Bennet's House at the further end of the Town to be fitted for the place of meeting for the Treaty.

The foreway into the House was appointed for the King's Commissioners to come in at, and the backway for the Parliaments Commissioners; in the middle of the house was a fair great Chamber, where they caused a large Table to be made, like that heretofore in the Star-chamber, almost square, without any upper or lower end of it.

The King's Commissioners had one end, and one side of the Table for them; the other end and side was for the Parliaments Commissioners, and the end appointed for the Scots Commissioners to sit by themselves. Behind the Chairs of the Commissio∣ners on both sides sate the Divines and Secretaries, and such of the Commissioners as had not room to sit next to the Table.

At each end of the great Chamber was a fair withdrawing Room, and Inner-chamber, one for the King's, the other for the Parliaments Commis∣sioners, to retire unto, and consult when they pleased.

The first night of their being together, a little * before Supper, an intimation was given that the Chancellour of Scotland expected both at the Table and Meetings to have precedence of all the English Lords, and that Mr. Barkley and Mr. Kennedagh ex∣pected to have precedence of the English Commis∣sioners, who were but Esquires, except Mr. St. John, to whom they were pleased to allow precedence, because he was the King's Sollicitour.

Upon Discourse, the Arguments they insisted upon for the Chancellour, were, That he was the prime Officer of Scotland, and had precedence of all Dukes there, unless they were of the Blood Royal; and both the Kingdoms being now united, he was to have the same precedence in England as he had in Scotland.

To which was answered, That he was not Chancel∣lour in England, nor had any precedence here, but in courtesie, as Earl of Loudoun; that formerly when the great Officers of England attended the King into Scotland, as soon as they came thither, they ceased to execute their Offices, and had no precedence there; and that it ought to be alike with the Chancellour of Scot∣land when he was here.

For the precedence of Mr. Kennedah and Mr. Berkley before the Commissioners who were Es∣quires, they were informed, that Mr. Whitlocke and Mr. Crew were eldest Sons of Knights, and that by the Law of England those were to have pre∣cedence next to Knights, and consequently before the Scottish Gentlemen, with which they were sa∣tisfied, but still they insisted upon the point of the Chancellour's precedence.

The Earl of Northumberland smiled at this con∣test, and seemed to contemn it, of whose great Honour and Family, and the Antiquity of it the Scots Commissioners could not be ignorant, nor of the difference between that, and the Family of the Earl of Loudoun.

Yet Northumberland moved for satisfaction of the Scots, that the Chancellour and one other of the Scots Commissioners might sit at the upper end of the Table (which was not taken for the chief, but for the Womans place) and the rest of the Commissioners to sit in their ranks, on either side, and so that matter was for the present settled.

Officers had been sent down from the Parlia∣ment to prepare all things fit for the Commissio∣ners, and for their Diet and Entertainment, at which the Scots Commissioners were contented to have their share; and things were ordered very nobly and handsomely.

Mr. Thurloe and Mr. Earle were Secretaries for the English, and Mr. Cheesely for the Scots Commis∣sioners: none sate at the Table with the Commis∣sioners but the Ministers when there was room; and sometimes strangers, or persons of Quality, that came into them, and a very full Table was there kept for them; and alwaies before every Meal, one of the Ministers. Mr. Marshal or Mr. Vines, and now and then Mr. Henderson prayed, and suitable to the occasion.

On the first day of their meeting, Jan. 30. in the Evening, before they entred upon the Treaty; each side desired to know the others power for the Treaty, and to have Copies thereof.

A Petition from Kent presented by their Com∣mittee, * express their good affection to the Parlia∣ment, and encourage the Commons to pursue the Self-denying Ordinance, and the thanks of the House was returned them.

The King's forces advancing towards Newport Paganel, Sir Samuel Luke the Governour, was sent down thither.

Divers Orders were made for Supplies for the several forces.

The Members of the House attended the Burial * of Mr. John White of the Middle Temple, a Member of the House of Commons, a Puritan from his youth to his death, an Honest, Learned and Faithfull Ser∣vant to the publick, but somewhat severe at the Committee for plundered Ministers.

The Lords read the Bill or Ordinance for raising Forces under Sir Thomas Fairfax; and the Com∣mons ordered a Letter to be sent to him, for his speedy coming up to the Parliament: and whilst the Treaty for Peace went on, they did not slacken their pains to prepare for War, in case the Treaty should take no effect.

Page  123 For the motion of the Scots Army Southwards, Letters were past by the Commons, and sent up to the Lords.

Jan, 31. The Commissioners for the Treaty ha∣ving viewed; and considered each others powers, * and instructions, exceptions were taken on both sides to the meaning of some clauses in their In∣structions.

Both Houses explained their meaning in those clauses excepted against, and the King's Commissi∣oners sent to Oxford for satisfaction, to that which was excepted against by the Commissioners of both Kingdomes.

They agreed to give in to each other papers in in writing of their particular Proposals, and then as there should be occasion, to have verbal debates upon any of those particulars, and accordingly the Parliaments Commissioners delivered in Pa∣pers to the King's Commissioners of four parti∣culars concerning Religion, first to be treated on.

• The Directory for Worship.
• The taking away the Book of Common Prayer.
• The Confirming of the Assembly of Divines.
• And for the King to take the Covenant of both King∣domes.

Feb. 1644.

1. Before the Commissioners on either part for the Treaty insisted on any debate, upon parti∣culars; several resolutions were made by consent of both sides to this effect.

That all overtures of the Treaty should be set down in writing.

That whatsoever should be agreed to on both sides, upon any one or more of the Propositions, should be null, and of no force, in case the Treaty break off upon any of the Propositions.

The Parliaments Commissioners delivered to the King's Commissioners, in writing the Propositions and Votes of both Houses concerning the setling of Religion in a Presbyterial way, which were ap∣pointed for the debate of the three first days of the Treaty.

Unto these the King's Commissioners did make some Quaeries, as,

• 1. What was meant by the Presbyterial Govern∣ment * propounded to be Established.
• 2. What was meant by Classes.
• 3. What was meant by Provincial, and Synodical Assemblies.
• 4. What by the bounds of Parishes, with other que∣stions depending upon these.

Upon the entrance into the debate of the points, Doctor Steward spake very learnedly (though * seeming frowardly) against Presbyterial Govern∣ment in the Church of England; which had so long been under Episcopacy, which he thought most suitable to our Church, and to be jure divino.

Mr. Henderson and Mr. Marshall answered the Doctor, commending the Presbyterian way of Government, and that Episcopacy was not so sui∣table to the word of God, as Presbytery, which they argued to be jure Divino. *

To which the Marquess Hartford spake to this effect.

My Lords: Here is much said concerning Church * Government in the General, the Reverend Doctors on the King's part, affirm that Episcopacy is Jure Divi∣no; the Reverend Ministers of the other part do af∣firm that Presbytery is Jure Divino, for my part, I think that neither the one nor the other, nor any Go∣vernment whatsoever is Jure Divino, and I desire we may leave this Argument, and proceed to debate upon the particular Proposals.

The Earl of Pembroke was of the same judgment, and many of the Commissioners besides these two Lords, were willing to pass over this point, and to come to the particulars.

Dr. Steward thought the disputes to be too vari∣ous, and general, and desired that they might di∣spute Syllogistically, as became Schollars, and was the best way to find out the Truth.

Mr. Henderson told them, that he, in his younger days had been a pedagogue, and had also read Lo∣gick, and Rhetorick to his Schollars, and had who∣ly of late declined that kind of Learning; but ho∣ped, he had not forgot all of it, and therefore a∣greed to dispute Syllogistically.

In that way they proceeded upon the points ur∣ged by the King's Doctors, which were very clear∣ly and learnedly opened by Mr. Vines, Mr. Mar∣shal, and Mr. Henderson, and very learnedly reply∣ed unto by all the King's Doctors, who did seve∣rally declare their judgments upon those points, but the Arguments on both parts were too large to admit a place in this story for them.

The King's Commissioners complained of a Ser∣mon preached by Mr. Love at Ʋxbridge, the morn∣ing * before they entred upon the Treaty; wherein they said were many expressions in derogation of His Majesty, and the present Treaty; the Parlia∣ment having notice thereof from their Commissio∣ners, sent for Love, and referred the business to an examination.

The Commons passed an Ordinance for Tun∣nage and Poundage.

2. Mr. Marshall preached this Sunday to the Par∣liaments Commissioners.

3. The Commons denyed an exchange for Colo∣nel Smith, once a Member of theirs, because he being a Prisoner of War, escaped, and was reta∣ken; and because they were informed, that he said, the onely way to make the King's Forces successful, was to kill all the Ploughmen they met with, that the people might be deterred from ploughing their grounds, and so to starve the Roundheads.

Letters from Major Purefoy Governour of Comp∣ton-house, informed, that about 1200 of the King's * Forces, about two a Clock at night, fell upon him, and stormed his outworks, and cut down the great drawbridge, possest themselves of all Purefoy's Trouphorses, and took about 30 of his foot Soul∣diers in their beds, they, taking the alarm, made good a new Sconce, and beat the Enemy out of the Court, where, about 200 of them were entred, and ready to storm the Sconce.

They were forced to retreat, and by a party of the Garrison of about 40, and fought at push of Pike, and Swords point, till Sir William and Sir Charles Compton gave ground; which Purefoy's Souldiers perceiving, leaped out at the Win∣dows, and recovered the outworks, and the draw-bridge, and drew it up again, and so got them in a pound.

Page  124 The Comptons Valiantly sought to storm again the outworks three times, and were as Valiantly beaten back, after three hours fight, they set on fire the hay, straw, and combustible stuff, which much annoyed Purefoy's men, and they threw a∣bove 100 hand Granadoes, which set fire on the House in several places.

Then the Comptons sent a Trumpet to parley, but Purefoy forbad him speaking to the Souldiers, and sent him away.

The fight continued, and the fire increased, Purefoy drew all his men together, and fell upon the Enemy, and killed, and took many of them, upon which the Comptons drew off their foot, and faced the house with their horse, and sent another Trumpet to parley, who was answered onely with the shot of a Musket.

Of Compton's men, about 20 Officers were killed, and taken, 6 Cart loads of wounded men carried off, and about 40 Common Souldiers left dead be∣hind, and many more taken Prisoners, and great store of Arms, and Purefoy writes that he had but two men wounded.

Northampton horse the next night fell upon the same party of the King's near Banbury, and took 60 horse and 30 prisoners.

The King's Commissioners having received an∣swers * to all their Quaeries touching Presbyterian Government, it was desired by the Parliaments Commissioners, that they would declare their resolu∣tions therein, Positively, or Negatively, but answer was returned, that they could not, untill they had made a further progress in the other Propositions.

Thereupon the Parliaments Commissioners deli∣vered in to them, several Papers, to treat on the business of the Militia, which was appointed to be debated, the next day in the morning.

4. The Commissioners being met, Sir Edward * Hyde in the first place would have had it for gran∣ted that the whole power of the Militia by the Law of England is in the King onely.

This by Mr. Whitelocke was deny'd to be so very clear: and he undertook to make it out that our Law doth not positively affirm where that great Power is lodged, and doubted not but to satisfy the Commissi∣oners fully in that point. Whereupon it was moved that a day might be appointed to hear their Argu∣ments; when the Earl of Southampton Interposed saying.

My Lords, We have already spent much time in debates touching the matters of Religion; and although I should be very glad to hear both these worthy Gentle-men speak to this point, by whom we may receive much satisfaction therein; yet I think that it will more conduce to the setling of our business, to decline any debate upon this matter, and to see how far we can meet one a∣nother in the composure of the business upon this Propo∣sition.

Hollis, My Lords, I think it is very well moved by that Noble Lord, for saving of our time; and more for endeavouring to compose any difference, that may be upon this Proposition, by coming as near as we can to satisfy one another, and therefore, though I should ac∣count the time very well spent to hear these worthy Gentlemen, who I believe, would very much inlighten our judgments in this matter; yet I doubt it may not tend so much to a composure of it, as may be by de∣clining the Debate.

Several others of the Commissioners spake to the same effect with the Earl of Southampton, and Mr. Hollis; and thereupon it was thought fit to lay aside the debate between Sir Edward Hyde, and Mr. Whitelocke: and the Commissioners proceeded in the Treaty upon the Particulars of the Propo∣sitions of the Militia.

The Commissioners of both Kingdomes, at their return to their Quarters, gave Whitelocke thanks for encountring Sir Edward Hyde upon the point of Right of the Militia, wherein he was so confi∣dent, and said the Honour of the Parliament was concerned therein, and vindicated by him.

The Assembly sent to the Commons a further * part of the Directory for Government of the Church in a Presbyterial way, as to the point of Excommunication, and that some of them dissented in that point.

The Lords agreed to the Ordinance for the new Model of the Army under Sir Thomas Fairfax, with some Alterations and Additions, that the Officers * should be named by both Houses; That all the Officers and Souldiers shall take the Covenant, and submit to the Church Government agreed on by the Houses; and that every Lord Lieutenant be of the Committee of that County for this Ordinance.

Many Orders about the Scots Army moving Southwards, and for supplies for them, and for an establishment for the Garrison of Ports∣mouth.

Captain Hacker going to fortify Sir Erasmus de * la Fountains house near Malton, a party of the King's came upon them, but were repulsed; and during the fight, some of Hacker's men running into the house for powder, set two Barrels on fire, which blew up part of the house, but withall discovered plate and jewels to the value of 600 l. that were hid there by the Enemy.

Colonel Hastings for the King sent out War∣rants, for Carriages to fetch Hay to Ashby; the Parliaments Forces sent out their Warrants to bring the Hay to Coleorton; but Hastings was too quick, and had compelled the Country to load the Hay, and with a strong guard was bringing of it to his Garrison.

Captain Temple the High Sheriff of the County, having notice thereof, with his Troop got between them and Ashby in the van, and three Troops of Derby following in the reer, after a little engage∣ment, Hastings his men fled, and were routed and pursued, 40 of them taken Prisoners, 60 horse Arms, and all their Hay.

5. Debate about the Ordinance for the new Mo∣del, and Orders concerning Musters, and pay of the Army and about the Navy, and for guards of the fishermen.

A Committee of both Houses to consider of sun∣dry Letters, and Papers concerning the County of Leicester.

Letters from Captain Cranley from Portsmouth informed, that the Lord Brabson, Sir Henry Tich∣burne, Sir James Hare, and the rest of the King's Commissioners for the Irish business, lately taken at Sea, had Letters and Papers taken about them, of great consequence, which with the Prisoners were sent up to the Parliament, who referred the business to the Committee of both Kingdomes to be examined.

The point of Peerage in the Tryal of the Lord * Macquire was argued in the King's Bench, and the opinion of the Court was, that he should be tryed there by an Ordinary Jury.

The King's Commissioiners at Ʋxbridge kept a solemn Fast, and the like was in all the King's Quarters for the good success of the Treaty, and in the evening they delivered a Paper to the Par∣liaments Commissioners, that the next day they would give their answer touching the Militia.

6. The debate touching excommunication put off.

Report of the Bill for taking away of Bishops, and those of Ireland added to be abolished, and Page  125 several Votes concerning Church Government, sent up to the Lords.

Some new Sheriffs appointed.

Orders for supplies of Abbington.

Colonel Gerrard besieged Cardigan Castle kept by Lieutenant Colonel Poole, and by stratagem got * into the Town, and cut down the bridg to pre∣vent Relief coming to the Castle, where they wan∣ted Provisions.

Gerrard sent a summons to the Castle, that if they did not surrender by a day, they should have no quarter. Poole and his men returned Answer, that they had divers raw hides, which when they wanted provisions, they would first eat, and when they were spent, then they would come out and fight for their lives, but would not surrender the Castle.

In the mean time Poole sent to Major Laughorne for relief, who came with a strong party, and finding the bridge broken down, he by faggots and pieces of wood, got his men over the River, and sent an arrow into the Castle with a Letter to give them notice of his coming, and that they should Salley out upon the Enemy, the same time that he fell on.

All which was performed so successfully, that Gerrard's Forces were all routed, 200 of them slain upon the place, 4 brass pieces of Ordnance, 600 Arms, and 150 Prisoners taken, whereof Ma∣jor Slaughter, divers inferiour Officers, and Dr. Taylor.

The King's Commissioners gave in their An∣swer * about the Militia, wherein they agree to set∣tle the Militia for three years, and in the hands of twenty persons, ten of them to be chosen by the King, and the other ten by the Parliament: And that it shall be High Treason for any to continue such power in the Militia, after three years. And for the Militia to be settled in Scotland, they gave no Answer at all; though the Papers delivered into them, were to settle the Militia of both Kingdoms.

This Answer of the King's Commissioners to the great Point of the Militia, gave much dissatis∣faction to the Parliaments Commissioners. And the Earl of Northumberland, Mr. Pierpoint, Mr. Hol∣lis, and Mr. Whitelocke, with others of them, advi∣sing in private about it, endeavoured by particular applications to their friends of the King's Com∣missioners, to get a better Answer, and more com∣plying with the Parliament from them.

But it could not be obtained, and they hinted to them, that they were bound up by their Instructi∣ons from the King, that they could go no further. Yet they promised to send to Oxford, to see if they could prevail there, for a further concession from his Maje∣sty in this particular. But nothing came of it.

They sent the Papers on both parts in every dis∣patch to the Parliament, and when these of the Militia were read, the House of Commons, seemed much troubled at them: some were pleased, who were no great Wishers of Peace; and others doubt∣ed thereupon of any good success in the present Treaty.

7. The Lord Mayor and Aldermen of London sent a Letter to the Speaker, intimating the scarcity of * Flesh-meats, by the destruction of Cattel in the time of these Wars, and the good by encouraging the Fish∣ing; and submitted the whole, not as to the keeping of Lent, but to prevent Dearth, to the judgment of the houses: Who ordered an Ordinance to be brought in for this business.

After a Debate from Morning till the Evening, upon the alterations made by the Lords in the Or∣dinance of the new Model; the Commons voted, That Sir Thomas Fairfax should nominate all the Commanders in his Army, to be taken out of any the * other Armies, and to receive the approbation of both Houses.

The Scots Commissioners at Ʋxbridge were much unsatisfied, that no Answer was given touching the * settlement of the Militia in Scotland, and took it as an high neglect of that Kingdom.

They and the Parliaments Commissioners gave in some Papers to the King's Commissioners, touch∣ing the Propositions for Ireland.

A Letter was past to be sent to the Parliament of Scotland, concerning the Scots present advance Southwards.

8. The Commons state from Eight a Clock in the * Morning, till Eight a Clock at Night, upon the Alterations made by the Lords in the Ordinance, for the new Model. And agreed to most of them, and ordered Reasons to be drawn up to satisfie the Lords in those wherein they differed.

They voted, that all Officers in the new Army that shall be approved by both houses, shall take the Cove∣nant within twenty days, and the Souldiers, in a time to be set for it.

The rest of the Papers upon the Propositions for Ireland, were delivered in to the King's Com∣missioners for the Treaty,

9. The Lords-day one of the Ministers with the Commissioners preached very seasonably for the Occasion in the Morning, and another in the Af∣ternoon.

Some Visits past between some of the Commis∣sioners on both parts, and indeavours to perswade one another to nearer terms of agreement, but to little effect.

10. Some Debate touching the Point of Excom∣munication.

The Lords concurred with the Commons in a Letter to the Parliament of Scotland, for the * March of their Army Southwards: and the place of their Rendezvous was referred to the Com∣mittee of both Kingdoms, for the more secrecy thereof.

They also agreed in Approbation of the Opi∣nion of Judge Bacon, in over-ruling the Plea of * Macquire, in the point of Peerage, who was this day at his Tryal in the King's Bench, and excepted against twenty three of the twenty four, returned of the Jury.

The Commons past the Bill for taking away Episcopacy in Ireland as in England, and sent it up to the Lords for their Concurrence.

They nominated several High Sheriffs.

11. Orders for Money and Supplies for the Navy.

The Reasons of the Commons for their differ∣ing from some Alterations made by the Lords, in the Ordinance of the new Model, where delivered to the Lords.

A Petition of Merchants trading into France, (whose Goods were seized there, and Letters of Marque granted against all that adhered to the Par∣liament) was referred to the Committee of both Kingdoms, and to draw up a Letter to be sent to the King of France, for redress therein.

Propositions touching Navigation sent from the Lords.

The Commons had information of a great De∣sign in Bucks, to dissolve the Treaty at Ʋxbridge, to be effected by a Petition framed for them; and * great endeavours to get hands to it in Bucks.

The Petition was directed to the Commissioners of both sides at Ʋxbridge, and 5000 Inhabitants were designed to come with it.

The Commons had a Copy of the Petition, the Effect whereof was, That Religion might be esta∣blished as in the purest times of Queen Elizabeth, &c.

Page  126 Sir John Lawrence was informed to be the active Promoter of this Petition, and was therefore sent for in Custody to the Parliament.

The Directory for Worship was much approved by the Assembly in Scotland.

General Leven went towards Carlisle, to assist in the Siege there.

Macquire upon his Tryal in the King's Bench, was * found Guilty, and had Judgment of High Trea∣son pronounced against him, to be hanged, drawn, and quartered: He desired to be beheaded, and to have his Execution respited, till he might speak with Sir Bazill Brooke, and Mr. Walter Mountague. The Judge said, he would acquaint the Parliament therewith, and observe their directions.

The King's Commissioners at Ʋxbridge gave in * their Answer to the Proposition concerning Ire∣land, * and therein justified the King, in making a ces∣sation with the Rebels there; and that he is in honour bound to maintain it. And they would by no means yield to that part of the Proposition, To prosecute the War against the Irish Rebels.

The Commissioners entred upon a second De∣bate, concerning Religion; the King's Doctors * highly insisted for Episcopacy.

12. Orders for new Sheriffs, and for Monies for the Army; and the Lords were desired to ex∣pedite the Ordinance for the Model.

News came that Goring's Horse, and a party of Foot from Portland, by a sudden assault took the Works at Weymouth, and the Town was in great danger to be lost, if not suddenly relieved.

Orders were thereupon sent to Sir William Wal∣ler, to march immediately for relief of Weymouth.

The House was in a Grand Committee to con∣sider of the business of the Navy, and of the Cu∣stoms.

An Ordinance past for raising of Monies for the Scots Army to march Southwards.

13. Letters from Sir William Waller intimated Disobedience in some of the Souldiers to march into the West, and desired further power. The House re∣ferred it to the Committee of both Kingdoms, to give such power accordingly.

Such was the inconstancy of the Souldiers, and the incertainty of the Affairs of the Parliament, and of War.

Those who had been so well paid by the Parlia∣ment, now dispute their Commands, occasioned * by the unsettledness of the Parliaments business, and the Discontents among the Souldiery, because their General Essex was laid aside. And here be∣gan their first unruliness.

Treasurers of Counties ordered to pay no Mo∣nies to Commanders who lay down their Com∣missions, without further order.

Letters from Major Bridges Governour of War∣wick, informed, that he sent two of the three Companies of his Garrison by small parties into the Country, as to gather Contribution, but com∣manded the Officers not to return without further Orders from him.

To these he got an addition of eighty foot, and seventy horse, with these he marched all Night, and the next Morning by Day-break began to storm Stoke-house, which the King's Forces were then fortifying, and stood between two other of their Garrisons, the House was strong, and stoutly defended for an hour and an half, and then Bridges * entred it by force, without the loss of one man, though, they were without shelter, and the bullets and stones flew thick about them.

The King's Garrison at Campden and Evesham drew out to relieve their friends; but Bridges had done his work, took away his Prisoners, and fired the house being a Fort onely of Pa∣pists.

The Prisoners were 5 Papist Captains, and about 30 more Officers and Gentlement all Papists, be∣sides the Common Souldiers.

The Commons delivered their reasons 〈◊〉 the Lords, why they could not agree; that those Com∣manders * who refused the Covenant, should be made un∣capable of ever serving the Parliament; because that scruple of Conscience might in time be removed, and they be persuaded to take the Covenant, to the rest they agreed.

At the same conference they offered Letters that * came from the Army, from persons of credit, of the great complaints against some Commanders of Horse, and of the mutinous, and disobedient car∣riage of the Souldiers, refusing to march, to relieve Weymouth being in great distress, and that at the Muster, no men appeared so full, and well armed, and civil as Colonel Cromwel's horse. *

The Lords then shewed other Letters of the mutinous carriage of the Soldiers, all which were referred to the Committee of both Kingdomes, to be examined.

Letters from Sir Will, Waller informed, that he * was resolved to march to relieve. Weymouth with those that will follow him, the rest to be looked upon according to their demerit.

The Committee reported several murthers, * rapes, and other cruelties, committed by some of the Parliaments Souldiers, particularly some ser∣vants, slain or wounded desperately, of Mr. Ho∣byes, a Member of the House, and he called by them a Parliament dog.

Some of the Officers grew unsufferably dissolute, and insolent; and their Souldiers followed the ex∣ample of their Commanders, so that it was found high time to make a reformation among them.

The Ordinance was debated for restraining the killing of flesh.

The French Letters were stayed, because of sen∣ding the Parliaments Letters to the King of France, to take off the seisure there, of some of the English Merchants goods.

Goods of some Tradesmen of London sold to the Enemy, were restored, because they were not for hostility, and the same men Traded to Ales∣bury.

Captain Stone, under Sir Will. Brereton, marched with a small party against Pattshall house, a Popish * Garrison, strongly fortified and moated; and ta∣king the opportunity of the drawbridg being let down, he suddenly forced his passage, surprized the Centries, and fell in among the Garrison, fought with them in the house, killed many, and took with divers Gentlemen of Quality, two Jesuits, and about 60 Souldiers prisoners, and possessed the House, Arms, Ammunition, and good prize.

The first three days of the Treaty were spent * upon the Popositions touching Religion, the three next days about the Militia, the third three days about Ireland; then they began again with other three days about Religion, whereof this was the last.

In this time of the Treaty, the King's Commis∣sioners would not agree to the taking away of Bi∣shops, only they offered some limitation of their power.

The Directory for Worship settled by Parlia∣ment, they would not agree unto, and the National Covenant, they in express and positive terms de∣nied.

Doctor Steward, and Dr. Shelden again argued very positively, That the Government by Bishops was Page  127 Jure divino. Mr. Hinderson, and Mr. Vines argued as positively, but more modestly to the contrary, and that the Government of the Church by Presbyte∣ries, was Jure divino.

15. The Lords assented to the leaving out the * Clause in the Ordinance for the new Model to make them uncapable who refused the Covenant, * but that they should be displaced from their Com∣mands, till they did take it, to which the Com∣mons to avoid more delay, agreed, and so the Or∣dinance passed.

Sir William Brereton sent out a party, and beat the Enemy from Holt-bridge, and placed a Garri∣son there.

He continues the Siege at Beeston Castle, and Chester, and himself took the Field, with the ad∣ditional Forces of Warwickshire and other Coun∣ties, to attend the motions of Prince Maurice.

16. The Lords-day the Parliaments Commis∣sioners had two good Sermons in their own Lodg∣ings.

17. The French Resident wrote a Letter to the House of Commons, as by direction from his Ma∣ster the French King, advising the Parliament to pro∣rogue the Treaty at Uxbridge for some longer time, as * that, which in his opinion would conduce much to the good of the Kingdom, and was of great concernment; and that it was the custom of other Princes to prorogue Treaties, and so it was then at the Treaty of Munster. There was nothing done upon this Letter.

The Commissioners at Ʋxbridge were entred up∣on the Propositions concerning the Militia, secunda * vice, and upon consultation of the Commissioners of both Kingdoms, they held it requisite to send one of their own number up to the Parliament, to give them a full account of all their proceedings hitherto, and to desire some further Instructions from them, and particularly touching the Mi∣litia.

Whitelocke was sent by them upon this Service, and accordingly he gave an account to them, where-with they declared themselves to be well satisfied, and approved the proceedings of the Commissi∣oners.

They likewise voted, That the Commissioners at Uxbridge should treat three days more than the twenty daies first allotted, in lieu of the three Lords-days that happened in that time, so that the Treaty is to continue till the two and twentieth of Febr. and that they shall have power to treat on any of the three Propositions ap∣pointed to be treated on.

The Marquess of Argyle sent into the Army of the Earl of Montross some Scouts and Spies, who at first dealt faithfully with him, but afterwards betrayed him, and sent him Intelligence, that the * Army of Montross with the Irish Rebels come over into Scotland, were remote from him, whereas they were near to his Forces.

Argyle (though late) having discovered this and the Enemies coming upon him, and finding his Of∣ficers and Souldiers full of mettle, resolved to fight them, but in the Battel some of his men, those of Rentire revolted from him, and turned their Musquets against their fellows.

This so discouraged Argyle's men, that they gave back and retreated, which Montross percei∣ving, fell on with great resolution upon them, routed the whole body of Argyle's men, killed di∣vers, and took many of them Prisioners.

A party of about 150 of the King's from Skipton, beat up Colonel Brandling's quarters at Heightley, * surprized the Guards, came into the Town, and took near a hundred prisoners, 60 horse, and o∣ther booty.

As they returned, Colonel Lambert's men fell upon them, rescued their friends and the booty, took Captain Hugh's who commanded the King's party, killed his Lieutenant, and about 15 of his men, and took about 20 of them prisoners, pursu∣ing the rest to Skipton. Samon one of Lambert's Captains, and about eight of his Souldiers were killed.

Sir John Meldrum got the Power of the Harbour at Scarborough, and appointed to storm the Town.

18. Orders about the Navy, and new Commissi∣oners of the Customs.

A Letter from Prince Rupert to the Lord Ge∣neral, for release of some persons imprisoned con∣trary to Articles, was referred to the Committee of both Kingdoms to have right done.

Sir Thomas Fairfax came privately to Town, and a Committee was appointed to consider of raising Moneys and Recruits for his speedy taking of the Field.

About 700 of the mutinous Troops being come near London, care was taken to prevent Surrey, * Kent, and the adjacent Counties, from any incon∣veniences by them.

Tobias Basely formerly a Porter, condemned by the Council of War for a Spy, and betraying Carriers, was hanged in Smithfield.

Prince Griffith petitioned, that since he was in custody, he was poysoned, and had but a few days to live. Whereupon two Doctors were approved by the House to visit him.

19. Four Members of the Commons House were sent by them for Sir Thomas Fairfax, to bring him * to the House, where a Chair was set for him, but he modestly refused to sit down.

The Speaker told him somewhat of Agamemnon and of the old Romans; which I have forgotten; then he informed him of the trust the Kingdom reposed in him, in the Command of the Army, and the good opinion they had of him for his valour and fidelity, gi∣ving him thanks in the name of the House, for the many and great services he had done for the publick, and in the defence of Religion, Laws, and Liberty, and in∣couraged him to go on as he had begun.

The Ordinance for Tunnage and Poundage sent up to the Lords, and another touching the Excise.

Weymouth held out, and received some relief by Sea from Poole.

Sir William Waller was upon his march to them.

The House received Letters from their Com∣missioners at Ʋxbridge, with several Papers con∣cerning the Militia, and the Reply made by the * King's Commissioners, who took advantage the last point of time to deliver in their Reply, when it might be conceived, no Answer could be made to it by the Parliaments Commissioners.

But they being impowred by their additional Instructions to reassume the business of the Militia when they pleased; the Parliament voted, that their Commissioners shall have power to treat with the King's Commissioners about passing a Bill for settling the Militia in the power of the Parliament, until such time as the three Kingdoms shall be reduced to peace, and so declared by Parliament, and three years after; or else for seven years from the time of the granting the Militia, and after that, his Majesty to take the ad∣vice of both Houses of Parliament for the settling thereof. And the Commissioners of both Kingdoms delivered in a Paper accordingly.

The Earl of Southampton, and some others of the King's Commissioners went from Ʋxbridge to Oxford, to the King about the business of the Treaty, to receive some further directions from his Majesty therein.

The Doctors reported Griffith to be in no dan∣ger.

Page  128 20. The Ordinance for Tunnage and Poundage, with the Clause for Currants, passed both Houses.

Orders for setting forth the Fleet.

Letters from Holland to the Parliament advise, that Brown Bushel was at Sea with a small Fleet, in∣tended for Piracy.

Information of a Design to cause the Souldiers to mutiny, was referred to be examined.

An Ordinance passed for raising of 21000 l. for * the Scots Army, to be repaid out of Sequestra∣tions.

The Committee at Goldsmiths-hall had 30000 l. ready to be sent to the Scots Army upon their ad∣vance Southwards.

The King's Forces intending to keep a Guard near Harrington, Brown sent out a party of Horse from Abington, who suddenly fell upon them, sur∣prized the whole Guard, being about nineteen, and brought them prisoners to Abington.

After that he sent out another party, who in∣tercepted and brought away 27 horse-loads of Corn, Cheese, and other Provisions, going to∣wards Oxford.

Major Purefoy fell upon the Enemy near Oxford, too• a Lieutenant and other Officers, 12 Troupers, and Arms.

The Lord Macquire was executed at Tyburn, he * refused to make any Confession, but died despe∣rately.

21. The Parliament sent an Express to their Commissioners at Ʋxbridge, with their Vote to pro∣pound * a Limitation of the Militia for three years, af∣ter the three Kingdoms are declared by the King and Parliament to be settled in peace, or to have it settled in the Parliament for seven years, after the time the King is willing to settle it.

To this effect they delivered in a Paper to the King's Commissioners, and endeavoured to per∣swade their Compliance, and were full of hopes that they would have consented to it.

Several Ordinances passed for 20000 l. supplied by the Commissioners of Excise, and an Ordinance for all Souldiers to repair to their Colours within 48 hours, and an Ordinance was sent up to the Lords for the new Commissioners of the Customs.

Orders for the Commissioners of the Navy, and for the Prince Elector.

22. The Commissioners at Ʋxbridge sent a Letter * to the Parliament, with all the Papers, containing the three Treaties of the three last days about Ire∣land, * wherein the Kings Commissioners did not think fit to yield to any of the Propositions, but again justified the Cessation with his Majestie's Ca∣tholick Subjects there.

The Parliaments Commissioners in their Reply, laid home the innocent blood shed by the Irish Rebels.

Letters from Sir John Meldrum informed, that Feb. 18. about ten a Clock the Town of Scarborough * was stormed in four places by the English and Sco∣tish Souldiers, who gained the Town and Church with the loss of eleven men; in the Church they took 80 Souldiers, and the Governour of Hemsley Castle.

Cholmley perceiving the Town like to be lost, * fled into the Castle, and was pursued, and one of the Works taken, but the White Tower in the Castle commanding it, they beat out Meldrum's men with stones.

Cholmley laboured to escape by Sea in a little Pin∣nace he had there, which he called his Running Horse, but Meldrum got Boats between him and * the Pinnace, and forced him back again into the Ca•tie.

Sir Hugh Cholmley had five Dunkirk Vessels lying in the Road, who interrupted Meldrum's men in the Storm, but his Canoniers sunk two of them, and the other three fled away.

Meldrum took in the Town and Church 32 pie∣ces of Ordnance, with store of Arms, and other prize, and in the Haven 120 Ships.

The Commons ordered 1000 l. to be bestowed on Sir John Meldrum, and 20 l. to him that brought the news.

Weymouth still held out, and a party from Mel∣combe Regis, sallied out upon the King's Forces, who besieged these Towns joyning together, and took of them 60 horse, and many prisoners.

The King's Commissioners, the Lord Capel, and Ashburnham, returned from Oxford to Ʋxbridge, * after which the King's Commissioners delivered in no further Paper, but only insisted upon longer time for the Treaty.

The Parliaments Commissioners answered, that if the King had consented to any one of the Propositions, it might have been some encouragement to move the Parliament for longer time, but as things were it could not be expected.

Both Houses sate till nine a clock at night, in ex∣pectation of some good news from Ʋxbridge, this being the last day of the Treaty; and about eight at night at a Conference, the Lords communicated to the Commons a Paper from the King's Com∣missioners at Ʋxbridge, For the King to come to Westminster upon a safe Conduct, so that the Treaty might be continued for a longer time.

Which being debated, and a Letter coming the same time from the Parliaments Commissioners from Ʋxbridge, That all this day till seven at night, there appeared no Compliance in the King's Commis∣sioners to grant any of the Propositions, and that they pressed only for a longer time.

Upon this the House of Commons did rise, with∣out doing any thing in the business, and this night till twelve a clock the Commissioners may treat, and not longer; and the Parliaments Commissioners have declared, That to morrow being the Lords-day, is not intended for one of the two days within the safe Conduct for them to return.

This caused much trouble in the minds of many honest men, Lovers of their Countries peace; and divers of the Kings Commissioners, as well as the other, seemed sorry that all their endeavours to so good an end, should prove so fruitless.

The King's Commissioners thought the advantage much on their part, that longer time to treat was denied by the Parliament, and gave it out, That if that had been granted, there would have been a hap∣py issue of the Treaty.

Those of the other side affirmed, That there could be no expectation of a good issue of the Treaty, or Inducement for the Parliament to grant longer time for the Treaty, when not one of the Parliaments Pro∣positions was granted by the King, during the whole time of the Treaty.

Various Judgments were passed by all persons, according to their own fancies or interests, most sober men lamented the sudden breach of the Treaty.

Colonel Fiennes sent out a party of his Regiment, who fell upon a party of the King's near Newbury, took forty good Horse and all their Arms, about 100 l. in Contribution-money, which the Enemy had gathered in the Country, took prisoners Ma∣jor Maxwell, Captain Paddon his Lieutenant, and 16 Souldiers.

23. The Lords-day the Commissioners had Ser∣mons in their Lodgings.

24. The States Ambassadors came to the Speaker * in the morning, before he went to the House, and desired Audience in the House this morning, To im∣part Page  129 to them something of Consequence. The Speaker excused it, That the House could not give a Reception answerable to their quality, on such short warning. They desired not to insist on that, and to come only with their own Attendants.

The Speaker acquainted the House herewith, and they gave way to the Ambassadors coming, who went first to the Lords, and after to the Com∣mons, and delivered their Message to this effect.

Shewing, the great desires and endeavours of their Masters continued, for an accommodation between the King and Parliament, which concerns all Protestants, and particularly their Lords and Masters. That his Majesty while they were at Oxford, honoured them by communicating to them what passed at the Treaty at Uxbridge.

And declared to them, that if the Parliament be not satisfied with what he offered concerning Church-government, his Majesty is contented that a National Synod be called of Divines from all the Protestant Churches in Europe, for their advice herein.

After this their Message delivered, the Ambas∣sadors returned, and this morning the Commis∣sioners of Parliament returned from Ʋxbridge to the two Houses, but made no report till the next day.

Letters from Captain Batten informed, that he had relieved Melcombe Regis by Sea, with Provi∣sions, and 100 Seamen: that 60 men in Weymouth were privy to a Plot, for betraying Weymouth to the Enemy.

That the Parliaments Forces in Melcombe, by the benefit of a fair wind, fired divers of the Ene∣mies Ships in the Haven, and a part of Weymouth. That Colonel Sydenham and his men maintain Melcombe with great gallantry.

Captain Swanley by Sea relieved Plymouth, and landed some Foot-souldiers there, who with a par∣ty of the Garrison sailled out upon the Besiegers that had gained a Hill, and Mount Stamford work, formerly slighted; but now the King's Forces were busie in raising a very strong Work there.

The Garrison and Seamen fell upon them unex∣pectedly, beat them from their new work, and at length out of the field, and pursued them two miles, took 104 Officers and common Souldiers, whereof a Lieutenant Colonel, a Major, 4 Captains, and other inferiour Officers, and 300 Arms, and lost but one man slain, and another wounded.

A party of Sir William Brereton's under Sir John * Price, a Member of Parliament, took Apseley House in Shropshire, and in it, Sir William and Sir Thomas Whitmore, Sir Francis Oatley, Mr. Owen, and other Commissioners of Array there sitting, and about 60 common Souldiers. Prince Maurice declined fight∣ing with Brereton. Colonel Craford at Rusham in Oxfordshire, took 40 Horse with men and Arms of the King's.

25. The Parliaments Commissioners reported all the passages the last day of the Treaty. The Com∣mons approved of what was done by the Commissi∣oners; * and that they had discharged their duties with singular judgment and fidelity: and returned them thanks for their pains.

Letters from the Committee at Wem, and from Sir William Brereton, informed, that the Committee ha∣ving several times attempted the taking of Shrews∣bury, but failed therein: On the last Lords-day a∣bout * 1200 horse and foot under Colonel Mitton, marched to Shrewsbury, and unexpectedly entred and surprized the Town and Castle.

They took there 8 Knights and Baronets, 40 Co∣lonels, Majors, Captains, and others of quality, and 2000 thers prisoners, one Captain, and 5 Souldi∣ers slain, 15 pieces of Ordnance taken, store of Arms and Ammunition, Prince Maurice his Magazine, divers Carriages, Bag and Baggage of the Princes.

An Allowance was given to the Lord Herbert of Cherbury, for his livelihood, having been spoiled by the King's Forces.

Upon the Cities Petition, an Ordinance for ra∣ting those who have Stocks in Trade, and absent themselves; and Orders for seizing suspicious per∣sons and Arms; and an Ordinance for raising Soul∣diers, Gunners, and Chirurgeons for Sir Thomas Fairfax his Army.

With an Exception to press none in the Univer∣sities, Inns of Court, and Chancery, trained Bands, &c. or Esquires, or their Sons or Officers, Sea-men, &c.

26. The publick Monthly fast solemnly kept.

27. A Messenger from Melcombe Regis, informed, that the Town held out still, and expected Sir Wil∣liam Waller's approach to them, that a party of 80 of their Horse sallied out, and routed near 300 of the Enemy, and took 60 horse, and another time 30.

The House ordered Colonel Cromwel to march with all speed into the West, to joyn with Waller.

The Government of Shrewsbury was referred to the Committee of that County, and 4000 l. to be provided for them to raise Forces, and 20 l. given to their Messenger.

A party under Sir Maronaduke Langdale, march∣ing Northwards, fell upon a party of the Parlia∣ments in Northamptonshire whom they routed, kil∣led * some, and took divers of them prisoners, and the rest shifted for their lives, and by flight saved themselves.

The same party of the King's fell upon some Dra∣goons of the Parliaments in Leicestershire, and rou∣ted them.

28. Several Officers of the new Army approved by the Commons.

A party of Col. Massey's men under his Brother, fell upon Sir John Winter in the Forest of Dean, rou∣ted him, and made him swim the River of Wye, in which 60 of Winter's men were drowned, 70 slain, besides Col. Gamme, and Lieutenant Colonel Win∣ter, 120 taken prisoners, 140 Horse taken, several Officers, and 300 Arms.

The Commons ordered a Letter of thanks to Massey, and Supplies.

March, 1644.

1. The Commons proceeded in the List of the Officers of the Army.

They sent to the City to call a Common Hall the * 4th of March, That the Commissioners for the Treaty at Uxbridge, might then acquaint the City with the proceedings at that Treaty, and the aversness of the King's party to the peace. They have already set forth a Declaration at Oxford, for the vindication of themselves in that business.

An Ordinance for Provisions for the Parliaments Forces before Pomfret, another for the Essex Forces.

Letters from Colonel Sydenham, and Captain Batten, informed, that Goring had spent much time with 5000 horse and foot, before Melcombe, but had made no honourable attempt, only the night be∣fore endeavoured to cast up a Work before Mel∣combe, betwixt it and the Seas; but Sydenham sent out a party, who beat them from their Work, kil∣led two, and took divers prisoners, and all their Tools, without any loss.

3. The Commons past the List of Officers for the new Army.

Mr. Pryn was ordered to Print the Proceedings of the Archbishop's Tryal.

Orders for a Committee to hasten the Declara∣tion of the Proceedings of the Treaty at Ʋxbridge, Page  130 in which much labour was put upon Mr. Pierpoint and Whitelocke.

Mr. Sherrington, Talbot, and Mr. Dowdeswell, Commissioners of Array in Wigorn, were taken, and sent up.

The Chapel Fort at Weymouth was taken by the Parliaments Forces from the King's.

Letters from Sir William Brereton, informed, that four Regiments of Irish Rebels were lately landed in Wales for the King's Service.

Sir Marmaduke Langdale's party were met with by Colonel Rosseter near Melton, where they had a sharp Encounter, and loss on both sides. Of Lang∣dal's party were slain Colonel Tuke, Major Kert∣lington, Captain Markham, and about 100 others; of Rosseter's about 50, but no Officer; he lost one Colours, and took two.

Langdale got Provisions into Newark, and was recruited to 3000, and Rosseter followed him with 2000.

4. The French Agent sent a Letter to the Parlia∣ment, of the desires of his Master and the Queen Regent, That the Parliament would continue the Treaty with the King. The House ordered a Com∣mittee to draw up a fair and respective Answer to the Letter, but not to consent to any thing of re∣newing the Treaty.

The Speaker was authorized to give Passes to Delinquents to come into the Parliament, and to compound at Goldsmiths-hall for their Delin∣quency.

The Parliaments Forces in Melcombe, Febr. 25. having regained Chapel Fort, of great prejudice * to the King's Forces, they resolved by a Council of War, to fall again upon the Fort, and upon the Town of Melcombe at once in several places.

The same Evening that they resolved to do it, one of Melcombe Souldiers who had been taken pri∣soner, escaped, and gave notice to the Governour of this Design, who got his men in readiness.

The King's men that night assaulted the Line about Melcombe in five or six places, and the Cha∣pel, with great resolution; but were in every place repulsed, and lost about 150 of their men. In which Service, Captain Batten and his Seamen did very bravely: the Enemy retreated back to Weymouth, the Melcombe Souldiers stood still upon their guards, expecting the return of the Enemy, but they came not again.

But the next morning they all drew out of Wey∣mouth in hast, as in a Pannick fear, and marched away both horse and foot to Dorchester, leaving behind the Ordnance they had before taken from the Parliament in Weymouth, and two pieces more, with some Arms; and took nothing with them but some Plunder, and the Parliament Forces posles∣sed all the Forts, and lost but ten men.

At the same time a Ship of the Kings of 12 Guns came into Captain Batten.

Great numbers of Clubmen in Worcestershire and * Dorsetshire, got into a posture of defence, and re∣fused to serve the King according to his Procla∣mation.

The Parliaments Commissioners for the Treaty at Ʋxbridge, came to the Common-hall in London, and acquainted the City with the proceedings of that * Treaty, and of the aversness on the King's side to come to a closure of peace; so that now it was of necessity for their own defence to furnish out the Army under Sir Thomas Fairfax; for which end they desired from the City the Loan of 80000 l. to be repaid with Interest.

Upon Information, that the mutinous horse in∣clined * to obedience, the Parliament past an Order, that if they submitted by a day, they should be par∣doned, and continued in Service, otherwise to be proceeded against as Traytors.

5. Orders touching Money from the Customs and Excise.

The House approved of the Train of Artillery, and their Officers, under General Fairfax, and passed all the Colonels, except two: And an Or∣dinance for 2000 l. for the Officers, Souldiers and Seamen of Weymouth, and Melcombe, for their gal∣lant Service.

Order for a Day of Thanksgiving for the Suc∣cesses which God gave the Parliament, since the breach of the Treaty; ordered to be kept in Christ church London, and the Lord Mayor and his Brethren de∣sired to be there also.

Sir William Waller with Colonel Cromwel's Horse, and Colonel Fiennes Regiment, about 5000 Horse and Dragoons, marched into the West.

Provisions grew scarce in Oxford, Brown sur∣prized a herd of Cattel going thither, and brought them to Abington.

Craford went from Aylesbury towards Cambridge, to secure that Association.

6. The Assembly sent to the Parliament a Mes∣sage, * touching the Title to the Directory for Wor∣ship, and the Ordinance for taking away the Com∣mon Prayer-book, and for settling an able Mini∣stry; and that no prophane or ignorant persons might be admitted to the Sacrament.

Orders touching Delinquents Lands, and for sale of Lands of such as did not compound, or re∣fused to pay the Fines set on them.

The Commons desired the Lords to hasten the passing of the List of Officers of the Army.

The King had now Goring with a considerable party in the West, Prince Maurice in Cheshire, * Langdale in Yorkshire, Prince Rupert and Sir Jacob Ashley gone towards Shropshire, and the Parliament yet no formed Army.

The Commons adjourned for three days, to treat in the mean time about raising Moneys.

Letters from Sir William Brereton, informed, that Prince Maurice sent about 13 Foot-companies o∣ver the River Dee, to force the passage at Holt-bridge, which was maintained by two Companies of Fire-locks, under Lieutenant Colonel Jones for * the Parliament: Who beat back the Prince's men over the River, where many of them were drowned, and slew of them Sir Owen a Colonel, 100 Officers and Souldiers, took divers Prisoners, and five Arms and Colours, and lost only 6 men, and Ma∣jor Jackson.

Captain Aber Cromwey, and Captain Ennis, with a party of the Parliaments from Aylesbury, sur∣prized 50 of the King's horse near Oxford, quar∣tered there for want of Provisions in the Town.

Letters from Major General Langherne, and Captain Thomas informed of their good success in Wales, and the House ordered 500 l. for Langherne, as a token for his faithful Service.

7. The House sate not, but their Committees sate about providing of Moneys.

Letters from Massey confirmed his late success * against Sir John Winter; that of the Enemies were slain, Sir John's Brother, Colonel Gamme, Colonel Van Garres, and another Colonel, 70 more slain, 60 drowned, 2 Lieutenant Colonels, and 120 o∣thers taken prisoners.

Colonel Ogle Governour of Winchester for the King, sent out a party to beat up Sir William Wal∣ler's * quarters, who was prepared to receive them, and slew Colonel Philips who commanded the par∣ty, and took Lieutenant Colonel Gardiner, and di∣vers others prisoners.

8. Sir Marmaduke Langdale being on his march towards Pomfret, Colonel Forbes drew from the Siege to meet him; the Lord Fairfax ordered Page  131 them not to engage, but upon great advantage, till his additional forces came up to them.

But they did engage, and Langdale's Horse were beaten back to the last reserve; in which Encoun∣ter, Colonel Lambert and other Commanders re∣ceived some slight hurts, the Parliaments Foot there, being deserted by others who did not their parts, and galled by the Garrison Souldiers, who sallied out of Pomfret, were forced to retreat, with the loss of many Arms, an Iron piece of Ordnance, two Carriages, and some of their fellows.

The rest of their Carriages they drew off, over Ferrey-bridge, almost a mile from the fight; which pass was made good by Colonel Morgan and his * Dragoons, against Langdale's men.

The same night when this fight was, a party of the Yorkshire Forces fell upon a party of the King's at Houghton, and took 100 Horse and divers pri∣soners.

The Lord Fairfax with the Yorkshire Horse drew out their Forces, but the fight was over before they came, and the rallied Forces joyned with them.

10. Some Ministers of London petitioned both Houses for an Appendix to the Directory of Wor∣ship, to give power to Ministers to deny the Sa∣crament * to ignorant and scandalous persons; and that there might be Elders in every Parish, to joyn with the Ministers therein: And the Lords past an Ordinance for that purpose, and sent it to the Commons.

The Lords past the List of Officers of the Army, and sent it to the Commons, who appointed a Com∣mittee to consider how to imploy those who were not in the List, in some other Service, or to allow them maintenance.

Alderman Chambers his Petition, for recom∣pence for his former sufferings, for opposing the Prerogative, was taken into consideration, and di∣vers Orders past for money.

Langdale retreated to Newark, Colonel Rosseter and other of the Parliaments Forces fell on his Rear near Doncaster, and took divers prisoners.

Fourteen Troops, and 2000 of the Scots foot ad∣vanced Southwards.

The King's Forces in Shropshire quitted Routhsea Castle, and Medley House, and burnt Tongue Castle, and other places.

The Committee put out of Shrewsbury 50 Fami∣lies of Malignants.

A Ship of 26 Guns with Arms and Ammunition from France, came into Weymouth, supposing it to be the King's Garrison.

News came of a Mutiny in Oxford among the Souldiers and Scholars; and that Prince Charles, the Bishop of Armagh, Hopton, and 300 Horse were gone towards Bristoll, and the King was to follow them.

11. Ordinances for Money, for Brereton, Shrews∣bury, and Langherne.

Ordinance to make up the breaches in the Fenns in Lincolnshire.

Another for Sir Thomas Fairfax to choose Offi∣cers out of the other Armies.

Another for Money for the Scots.

Letters from Sir William Waller and Colonel Cromwel, certified the taking of the Lord Piercy, and 30 with him at Andover.

Divers Clubmen were up in several Counties, * and 4000 of them armed in Dorsetshire, threatned to plunder all who did not joyn with them to ex∣tirpate the Cavaliers; the Governour of Wareham for the Parliament sent some Horse to joyn with them.

In Worcestershire, about 2000 of them were got together, and put out a Declaration of their In∣tentions against the Popish party, and to preserve the King's Rights and Privilege of Parliament.

12. Both Houses of Parliament, and the Lord Mayor and Aldermen kept this as a day of Thanks∣giving, for the good success of the Parliament.

13. The Lords sent to the Commons to hasten the passing of the List for the new Model.

A Petition of Seamen for relief, and satisfaction for Prizegoods, taken care of.

Langdale marched towards Shropshire, and was followed by Rosseter and Yorkshire Horse.

The mutinous Horse returned to their duty, and Colonel Graves was sent to take the command of them, and to joyn with Craford to assist Brereton.

The Earl of Northampton's Regiment of Horse from Banbury surprized about 80 Horse loaden with cloath, with a Convoy of about 80 men, of whom they killed some, took about 20 prisoners, and the rest fled away.

The Worcestershire Clubmen increased, Prince * Rupert sought to pacifie them, but in vain; the Constables refused to bring in a List of their Names that assembled.

14. Orders for Horses, Saddles, &c. for Sir Tho. Fairfax his Horse, and for recruiting his Foot out * of the Lord General Essex his Regiment, and other∣wise, and the Recruits to have a Fortnights pay and clothes.

This brought in almost all Essex his Foot to Fairfax, they being such Creatures as will be car∣ried any where for money.

Order for Sir Thomas Fairfax to give Commis∣sions to his Colonels, Lieutenant Colonels, Ma∣jors, Captains, and other Officers.

Letters to the Committee in the Army, to keep the Army together, and to assist for Sir Tho. Fair∣fax his Recruits.

Orders for providing the Train Waggons, Ar∣tillery, Arms, Powder, and a Magazine for Sir Tho Fairfax, and for Draught-horses and Carri∣ages out of several Counties for him.

A thousand pounds ordered for General Brown.

The mutinous Horse returned to duty, were allowed a Fortnights pay, but none for the time they were in mutiny, and were now sent upon Service.

Several Committee-men added in divers Coun∣ties, and Orders for money and clothes for the Scots Army in Ireland.

15. Ordinances past for 1. per Cent. for supply of Plymouth; and for money upon the Custom of Currans for Gloucester, and for recruiting the Kentish Regiment at Plymouth.

The Lords at a Conference gave Reasons, why they left some Officers out of the List of Sir Thomas Fairfax his Army; but they waved the nomina∣ting * of others; they sent to the Commons an Or∣dinance for Marshall Law, differing from the for∣mer, and to continue two Months.

Waller and Cromwell beat up Goring's quarters, who sled to Exeter.

17. Captain Smith, of Colonel Martins Regi∣ment, for a slight offence, murdred an honest Buckinghamshire man, the Commons sent to inform the Lord General thereof, and ordered Smith to be sent for, and punished.

Letters from the Committee of Nantwich infor∣med that Prince Rupert, Maurice and Langdale were all joyned in one great body; and that with∣out a speedy relief, Sir Will. Brereton's Forces would be in great danger.

The House Ordered a Letter to be forthwith sent by the Committee of both Kingdomes, for a party of the Scots horse and Dragoons to advance Page  132 towards Sir Will. Brereton, and ordered Supplies for his Forces.

And they referred it to the Members serving for Yorkshire and Lancashire, to consider of some means for the supply of the Forces in those Coun∣ties.

At a free Conference, the Commons offered their reasons to the Lords, why they could not consent to the leaving out of the list, those Offi∣cers whom the Lords had left out, because they were such as Sir Tho. Fairfax nominated, and the Commons * approved, and a delay in passing this list, would be dan∣gerous to Sir Will. Brereton's Forces, to the associati∣on, and to the whole Kingdome.

The Lords acquainted the Commons with a Pa∣per from the French Resident, desiring the trans∣portation * of Gunpowder from Holland to France without interruption of the Parliaments Navy.

The Commons Ordered for Answer, that there * being Amity between the Crown of England and the Crown of France, there needed no particular Licence for the same.

Colonel Sir James Long High Sheriff of Wilts for * the King, returning from the Convoy of Prince Charles to Bristol, was set upon by a party of Sir William Waller's at the Devizes, and 40 of his men killed, the Colonel, 8 Captains, 7 Cornets and most of the other Officers, with 300 Souldiers taken Prisoners, about 340 Horse, and store of Arms taken, and but 30 of the whole Regiment escaped.

Oxford was much streightned for Provisions, * Browne did them no small prejudice from Abing∣ton; some of the Souldiers and Townsmen grew very mutinous, and the Antiparliament there were about to question the Lord Digby for an Incendiary, but they were dissolved.

18. 1000 l. Ordered for Abington.

Colonel Stephenson, a Member of the House, was taken Prisoner at Royden-house in Wilts, Ordered that Sir James Long taken at the Devizes be exchan∣ged for him.

An Order for supply of the Town of Henly upon Thames, with Match, 1000 Bandeliers, &c. and Whitelocke was appointed Governour of that Town, and of the Fort of Phillis Court, which he rather accepted, being his own house; and he had there in Garrison about 300 foot and a Troup of horse.

The works of the Fort were strong and regular, and the Thames brought round the Fort, in a large Graft; all the horse and foot were quartered with∣in the works, the great Guns about it were good, and the Souldiers stout men, and well armed, and good Officers.

The Officers and Souldiers of Sir Thomas Fairfax his Army, had a fortnights pay allowed them.

The Lords concurred with the Commons in pass∣ing the list of the Officers of Sir T. Fairfax's Army * without any alteration, which was so well taken by the Commons, that they appointed a Committee to prepare a Message to be sent to the Lords from them, to assure their Lordships of the real affection, and endeavours of the House of Commons, to support their Lordships in their honour and privileges.

The List of the Officers was this. *

Sir Thomas Fairfax Commander in chief.

Major General Skippon.

Colonels of Horse

Middleton, Sidney, Graves, Sheffield, Vermuden, Whaley, Sir M. Livesey, Fleetwood, Rosseter, Sir Robert Pye.

Colonels of Foot

Craford, Berkley, Aldridge, Holborne, Fortes∣cue, Inglesby, Mountague, Pickering, Welden, and Rainsborough.

A Petition of the East India Company for trans∣porting some things agreed unto.

The Governour of Hurst Castle took two of the King's Ships bound for France, forced by weather into the Isle of Wight, in them they had 300 bar∣rels of Herrings, 11 pieces of Cloath, 10 pieces of Ordnance, 40 Prisoners, and a pack of hounds.

News came that the Swedes in Germany gave a * great defeat to the Emperours Forces, 8000 of them slain, the two Generals, the whole Army routed, many Prisoners taken, all their Colours, Ordnance, Carriage and Ammunition.

Letters from Holland mentioned some difference rising there between the Prince of Orange, and the States.

19. The care of the education of the King's Children, was committed to the Earl of Northum∣berland, and his Countess, and they took into Consideration, the great losses of this noble Earl, for his affection to the publick.

Care was also taken for an allowance for the Earl of Mulgrave, and the Lord Sheffield, in lieu of their losses.

Mr. Ford was voted to be one of the Assembly in the room of Mr. Bolles deceased.

Orders for expediting Sir Thomas Fairfax into the field, and for money for the Lord Generals old Foot Souldiers, and for monies for Sir Willi∣am Brereton's Forces, and for supplies for Ire∣land.

The Lord Savile left the Oxford party, and came * to London, he was staid by the Guards, and this day examined by a Committee of the Lords of the grounds of his coming in, and was committed to the custody of the black Rod.

Colonel Holborne routed a party of Goring's horse near Crookehorne, and took about 500 of them,

About 400 of Banbury horse faced Northampton, and endeavoured to take a Parliament Captain out of his house near Northampton; but he with his Servants, and about 16 firelocks, kept the house, and repelled the enemy, and a party of horse draw∣ing forth of Northampton, the Banbury Horse fled away with some loss.

Letters from Colonel Cromwel informed, that * since his coming to his Regiment, their Carriage had been obedient, respective, and valiant, a good testimony whereof they gave in the late defeat of Long's Regiment, that they were sorry for their former mutinous carriage, and desired him to send their most humble Petition to both houses.

That they might again be received into their favour, * and their former offence fully pardoned; and promised a valiant testimony of their future service: which was well accepted by the Parliament.

A great debate about the trade of Coals; and to take off the imposition upon it.

An Ordinance for the Officers in Sir Tho. Fairfax his Army, constantly and personally to attend their charge; and not to be absent without leave.

Letters from Major General Brown informed, * that he had stopped the passage by water between Newbridg and Oxford, and sunk some great boats carrying Provisions to Oxford, and taken divers Page  133 parties of the King's Forces near Oxford, and kept them in continual motion.

That a party from Oxford scouting abroad had intercepted divers Country people going to Abing∣ton Market, of which Brown having intelligence sent a party of horse against them, who slew the Commander in chief an Irish man, and 8 more, took about 40 prisoners, and 30 horse, and returned home without any loss.

That among the prisoners taken was an Irish man, whom the Major General caused presently to be hanged, according to an Ordinance of Parlia∣ment.

A list of the Officers there.

20. The Captains of Ships, under the Earl of Warwick, were in a list presented to the House of Commons, and consented to.

The Captains for the Merchants Ships were re∣ferred to be named by the Merchants.

21. The Commons in a grand Committee con∣sidered about the persons that should be debarred * from receiving the Sacrament; and referred it to the Assembly.

Resolutions touching the Scots Army in Ireland, and in the North, upon an account of them, from the Committee of both Kingdomes.

Orders for expediting Sir Tho. Fairfax, and for the Assembly to nominate some Ministers to go with the Army.

Waller and Cromwell with a strong party follow∣ed Goring, who endeavoured to joyn with Green∣vile and Berkeley Governour of Exeter.

22. Order for a fortnights pay for Sir Thomas Hoogans Regiment, and divers fines for Composi∣tions confirmed; 1000 l. thereof paid to Waggo∣ners, who lost their Teams, and 500 l. to Souldiers Widows.

The Parliament pardoned Tho. Seppens, condem∣ned by the Council of War to dye. Provision made for Windsor Garrison, and the Committee of Oxon, Berks and Bucks, to treat with the Mili∣tia of London, about the constant maintenance of it.

The Arrears of Major General Skippon, order∣ed to be audited, and 500 l. imprested to him.

Letters from Sir Will. Brereton informed, that he kept the field, and that the Enemy had attemp∣ted nothing upon him, but plundred the Country, and committed many hundred rapes, and cruelties, that the Scots horse were advanced as far as Man∣chester towards him.

24. Order for 4000 l. for Langherne.

Captain Batten came to the house, and had their thanks for his good service, and a gratuity given him.

An Ordinance giving Commission to Sir Tho∣mas Fairfax, to execute Marshal jurisdiction, to fight * with, and slay all such as shall oppose him, and to suppress all Forces not raised by Authority of both Houses of Parliament, was read the first and second time; and Ordered that some Members of the House should presently withdraw, and make some alterations.

This was done, and reported back to the House before they rose, and then the Ordinance read the third time the same morning, and consented unto, and sent to the Lords. Acourse not formerly used, and of too much hast for a Parliamentary way; but excused by their then exigencies, and the un∣usual matters for Parliaments then before them.

At a Conference Sir John Evelyn Jun. declared the great sense the Commons had of their Lordships * Concurrence with them in the great affairs now in Par∣liament; on which the Security of the whole Kingdome did depend; and acknowledged their Lordships Renown∣ed actions, and unwearied endeavours with them for the publick good.

Then a Declaration of the House of Commons was read, that whereas some disaffected persons sought to foment jealousies, by raising a report, that the House of Commons had an intention to subvert the privileges * of the Peers, they declare they do so far detest any such designe, that they will use all kind of means, to find out the Authours of such report, and to bring them to punishment.

Some imprudent speeches had been given out by some Members of the House of Commons, and o∣thers, upon the Lords rejecting the Ordinance of Self-denying, and not concurring in other matters with the Commons; and as the Earl of Essex his party was strongest in the Lords House, so the par∣ty of his Enemies was most prevalent in the House of Commons.

Some of them them were not discreet, in their extravagant speeches and discourses touching the House of Lords, which was like to have kindled a sharp contention between the two Houses, but by this Message, and Declaration, it was for some time appeased.

Waller, Holborne and Cromwel, were joyned in the West; and Prince Charles, Goring, Hopton and Berkley, were got together, and Greenvile expected to be with them.

Sir John Meldrum going up a rock to view a * place, to plant his Cannon against Scarborough, was blown down by a violent wind, and bruised.

The Newarkers came to assault Grantham, but were repulsed, and about 20 of them slain, and di∣vers prisoners taken.

25. The Commons in a grand Committee deba∣ted the Question of admitting, and keeping from the Sacrament, ignorant and scandalous persons, and past some Votes in it.

Order for 1500 l. for Sir. Tho. Fairfax.

Sir John Hinderson was taken by the Aylesbury * Forces, and brought to the Parliament, with Let∣ters taken about him, from our King to the King of Denmark in recommendation of Hinderson.

The Parliament committed him to the Tower, and ordered Letters to be written to the King of Denmarkt, setting forth the condition of Hinder∣son, and how much he was an enemy to the Parlia∣ment.

The Clubmen in Worcestershire, being near * 14000, and some of them well armed, sent to Co∣lonel Massey for assistance to besiege Hereford, he sent back to them, that if they would fully declare for the Parliament, that he would joyn with them, for which they took two or three days respit.

Captain Tomlinson from Abington defeated a small party from Wallingford.