A copy of the letter from His Excellency the Lord Generall Cromwell, sent to the members of Parliament called to take upon them the trust of the government of this common-vvealth : which began on Munday the fourth of June, 1653, the day appointed by the letters of summons from his Excellency the Lord Gen. Cromwell for the meeting of these gentlemen : with severall transactions since that time.

A COPY of the LETTER From his Exccellency the Lord Generall Cromwell, sent to the Members of Parliament, called to take upon them the Trust of the Govern∣ment of this Common-wealth.

FOrasmuch as upon the dissolution of the late Parliament, it became necessary that the Peace, Safety and Goverment of this Com∣mon-wealth should be provided for; and in order thereunto, divers persons fearing God, and of approved fidelity and honesty, are by my Selfe, with the advice of My Counsel of Officers nominated, to whom the Charge and Trust of so weighty Affaires is to be committed. And having good assurance of your love to, and courage for God, and the interest of his Cause, and of the good people of this Common-wealth, I Oliver Cromwell, Captain Generall, and Commander in Chief of all the Armies and Forces raised and to be raised within this Common-wealth, do hereby summon and require you, being one of the persons nominated, personally to be, and appear at the Counsell Chamber commonly known, or called by the name of the Councell Chamber at White Hall, within the City of Westminster, upon the fourth day of July next, ensuing the date hereof, then and there to take upon you the said Trust, unto which you are hereby called, and appointed to serve as a Member for the County of — And hereof you are not to fail. Given under My hand and seale the — day of June, 1653.

O: CROMWELL.

Monday, June 4. 1653.

This being the day appointed by the Letters of S••mmons, from his Excellency the Lord General Cromwell, for the mee∣ting

of those Gentlemen that were called to the Supream Au∣thority, they met accordingly in the Councell Chamber, where being entred the Room, above one hundred and twenty in number, and being set round about the Table, the Lord Ge∣nerall standing by the window opposite to the middle of the Table and having as many of the Army-Officers as the room could well contein, on his right hand and on his left, his Lordship made a very grave Christian and seasonable speech and Exhortation, wherein he breifly recounted the many great and wondrous mercyes of God towards this Nation, and the Series of providence wherein the presence of God did wonderfully appear in carrying on this Cause, and bringing affaires into the present condition, beyond all expectation; ascribing the glory of all to God alone.

He set forth also in particular the progresse of affaires since the famous victory at Worcester, wherein that Arch Enemy of this nation was wholly subdued. He likewise laid down the actings of the Army there upon, after divers applications to the Parliament, and much being wanting, and for∣bearance, together with the grounds and necessity of their dissolving the said Parliament, which his Excellency declared to be for the presevation of this Cause, and the interest of all honest men who have been ingaged therein.

Moreover, he very amply held forth the clearenesse of the Call given to the present Members to take the Supream Authority, and did from the Scriptures exhort them to their duties and incourage them therein, desiring that a tendernes might be used towards all godly and conscientious persons, of what judgment and under what form soever.

Which being ended, his Lordship produced an instrument under his own hand and seale, wherby he did with the advise of his Officer, devolve and entrust the Supream Authority and Government of this Common-wealth, into the hands of the persons then met, who or any forty of them are to be held and acknowledged the Supream Authority of the Nati∣on, unto whom all persons within the same, and the Territo∣ries thereunto belonging are to yeild obedience and subjecti∣on. And they are not to sit longer then the 3 day of Novem∣ber,

1654. Three months before their dissolution they are to make choyce of other persons to succeed them, who are not to sit longer then a twelve month; but it is left to them to take care for a succession in Government: which Instru∣ment being delivered to the persons aforesaid, his Lordship commended them to the Grace of God.

This being done his Excellency and his Officers withdrew; and the said persons so met, having the Supream Authority put into their hands, after some short space, adjourned till the next morning eight a clock, and appointed to meet in the old Parliament House there to seek God for direction in this great work, and for his presence and blessing therein. Hereupon, without doing any further businesse, they all departed.

The Names of the Members of Parliament, which began June 4. 1653. With the respective Counties for which they serve.

[illustration] depiction of Parliament

Berks.

• SAmuell Dunch
• Vincent Goddard
• Thomas Wood

Bedford.

• Nathaniell Taylor
• Edward Cater

• Edward Cater

Buckingham.

• George Fleetwood
• George Baldwin

Cambridge.

• John Sadler
• Thomas French
• Robert Castle
• Samuell Warner

Chester.

• Robert Duckenfield
• Henry Birkinhead

Four Nothern Counties.

• Charles Howard
• Robert Fenwick
• Henry Dawson
• Henry Ogle

Cornwall

• Robert Bennet
• Francis Langdon
• Anthony Rous
• John Bawden

Derby.

• Jervas Bennet
• Nathanael Barton

Devon.

• George Monke, one of the Generalls at Sea.
• John Carew
• Thomas Sanders
• Christopher Martin
• James Erisey
• Francis Rous
• Richard Swe••••

Dorcet.

• William Sydenham
• John Bingham

Essex.

• Joachim Matthews
• Henry Barington
• John Brewster
• Christopher Earle
• Dudley Templer

Goucester.

• John Crofts
• William Neast
• Robert Holmes

Southampton.

• Richard Norton
• Richard Major
• John Hyldesley

Hertford.

• Henry Lawrance
• William Reeve

Hereford.

• Wroth Rogers
• John Herring

Huntington.

• Edward Montague
• Stephen Phesaunt

Kent.

• Lord Viscount Lisle.
• Thomas Blount
• William Kenrick
• William Cullen
• Andrew Broughton

Lancaster.

• William West
• John Sawrey
• Robert Cunl ffe

Leicester.

• Henry Danvers
• Edward Smith
• John Prat

Lincoln

• Sir William Brownelow
• Richard Cust
• Barn••by Bowtell
• Humphrey Walcot
• William Thompson

Middlesex

• Sir Willam Roberts
• Augustine Wingfield
• Arthur Squib

Monmouth

• Philip Jones

Northampton

• Sir Gilbert Pickering
• Thomas Brook

Norfolk.

• Robert Jermy
• Tobias Fecets
• Ralph Walmer
• Henry King
• Willam Burton

Nottingham

• John Oddingsels
• Edward Chid

Oxon

• Sir Charles Wolsley
• William Draper
• Dr. Jonathan Goddard

Rutland.

• Edward Horseman

Salop.

• William Botterel
• Thomas Baker

Stafford.

• George Bellit
• John Chetwood

Suffolk.

• Jacob Caley
• Francis Brewster
• Robert Dunkon
• John Clark
• Edward Plumstead

Somerset.

• Robert Blake, one of the Generalls at Sea.
• John Pine
• Dennis Hollister
• Henry Henly

Surrey.

• Samuel Hickland
• Laurence March

Sussex.

• Anthoney Stapley
• William Spence
• Nathanaell Studely

Warwick.

• John St. Nicholas
• Richard Lucy

Wilts.

• Sir Anthony Ashley Cooper
• Nicholas Greene
• Thomas Eyre

Worcester.

• Richard Salway
• John James

Yorke.

• George Lord Evr••
• Walter Strikland
• Francis Lassols
• Iohn Anlaby
• Thomas Dickenson
• Thomas St. Nicholas
• Roger Coats
• Edward Gill

London.

• Robert Tichborn

• John Ireton
• Samuell Moyer
• John Langley
• John Stone
• Henry Barton
• Praise-God Barboue

Wales.

• Bushy Mansel
• James Philips
• John Williams
• Hugh Courtney
• Richard Price
• John Brown

Scotland.

• Sir James Hope
• Alex: Bredy
• John Swinton
• Will: Lockart
• Alex. Jefferies

Ireland.

• Sir Robert King
• Col. John Hewson
• Col. Henry Cromwel
• Col. John Clark
• Daniel Hutchinson
• Vincent Gookyn

Called in by the Parlia∣ment since they sate.

• Lord Gen: Cromwell
• Maj. Gen. Lambert
• Maj. Gen. Harrison
• Maj. Gen. Desborough
• Col. Mat. Tomlinson.

Councell of State.

• ...THe Lord Generall.
• Maj. Gen. Desbrow.
• Maj. Gen. Harrison
• Mr. Major
• Col. Sydenham
• Sir Anthoney Ashley Cooper
• Ald. Tichbourne
• Sir. Charles Wolsley
• Sir. Gilbert Pickering
• Mr. Carew
• Col. Jones
• Lord Viscount Lisle
• Mr. Lawrence
• Col. Mountague
• Mr. Strickland
• Cap. Howard
• The Lord Eyre
• Sir William Roberts
• Mr. Sadler
• Sir Robert King
• Col. Henry Cromwell
• Dr. Goddard
• Col. Barton
• Sir William Brownlow
• Cap. Stone
• Col. George Fleetwood
• Col. James
• Mr. Anlaby
• Mr. Bennet
• Col. Rous
• Col. Bingham.

An ACT Declaring what Offences shall be adjudged Treason.

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BE it Enacted by this present Parliament, and by the Au∣thority of the same, That if any person shall maliciously or advisedly publish by writing, Printing, or openly declaring that the said Government is Tyrannicall, usurped, or unlaw∣full; Or that the Commons in Parliament assembled are not the supream Authority of this Nation, or shall plot, contrive or endeavour to stir up or raise force against the present Go∣vernment, or for the subversion or alteration of the same, and shall declare the same by an open deed, that then every such offence shall be taken, deemed and adjudged by Autho∣rity of this Parliament to be high Treason.

That if any person shall maliciously and advisedly plot or endeavour the subversion of the said Keepers of the Liberties of England, or the Councell of State, and the same shall declare by an open deed, or shall move any person or persons for the doing thereof, or stir up the people to rise against them, or either of them, they or either of their

Authorityes, every such offence shall be taken, deemed, and declared to be high Treason.

If any person not being an Officer, Souldier, or member of the Army, shall plot, contrive, or endeavour to stir up any mutiny in the said Army, or withdraw any Souldiers or Officers from their obedience to their Superiour Officers, or from the present Government as aforesaid, or shall procure, invite, aid, or assist any Forreigners or strangers to invade England or Ireland, or shall adhere to any Forces raised by the Enemies of the Parliament, Common-wealth, or Ke••per; of the Liberties of England, or if any person shall coun••efeit the Great Seale of England for the time being, used and ap∣pointed by Authority of Parliament, every such offence shall be taken to be high Treason, and also forfeit unto the use of the Common-wealth, all and singular his or their Lands, Te∣nements, and Heriditaments, Goods and Chattells: Provi∣ded alwayes that no persons shall be indicted and arraigned for any of the Offences mentioned in this Act, unlesse such Offenders shall be indicted or prosecuted for the same within one year after the Offence committed.

That if any person shall counterfeit the money of this Common-wealth, or shall bring any false money into this Land, counterfeit or other like to the money of this Com∣mon-wealth, knowing the money to be false, to merchandize or make payment, in deceit of the people of this Nation: Or if any person shall hereafter falsly forge and counterfeit any such kind of Coyn of Gold or Silver, as is not the proper Coyne of this Common-wealth, and is or shall be currant within this Nation by consent of the Parliament, or such as shall be by them authorized thereunto: Or shall bring from the parts beyond the Seas into this Common-wealth, or into any the dominions of the same, any such false and counterfeit Coyne of money being currant within the same as is above said, knowing the same to be false, to the intent to offer or make payment by merchandize or otherwise, or shall impaire, diminish, falsifie, clip, wash, round, file, scale, or lighten for wicked lucre or gaines sake, any the proper moneys of this Common-wealth, or any other Realm; allowed and suffered

to be currant: All such Offences adjudged high Treason, their counsellours, procurers, aiders and abettors being con∣victed shall suffer paines of death. It shall not extend to or be adjudged to make any corruption of blood to any of the Heires, or to make the wife to forfeit her Dour, or her title, action, or interest in the same. July 17. 1649.

A Relation of the Mutiny on Tuesday the 22 of Nov: 1653. in the New Exchange, of the Portugall Ambassadors Followers, &c.

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THis night was a great Mutiny at the New Exchange in the Strand, such as hath scarce ever been the like: The businesse upon the best information that I can have from those who were present in part of the businesse, and have conferred with others upon the whole, is this.

On Munday night (which was the night before) three of the Portugall Ambassadours family, whereof his brother was one, being at the New Exchange, they talking in French spake of such discourse of Transactions of some English Af∣faires, which Col. Gerhard, Sir Gilbert Gerhards brother, un∣derstanding the French Tongue, hearing, told them very ci∣villy,

that they did not represent the stories they spake of right; whereupon one of the Portugalls gave him the lie, up∣on that they began to justle, and all three fell upon Col. Gerhard, and threw him down, and got upon him, but tho he be but a little man, yet he threw him off that was upon him, and so was bustling with him a good while; there were some Gentlemen there, but knew not who it was they so as∣saulted, and so ne'r medled with them, and yet one of the Portugalls with his Dagger stab'd Col. Gerhard in the shoul∣der, and hurt him sore; but afterwards Mr. Anfrazer spake to the Portugalls, that it was not civill nor handsome for so many to fall upon one, three to one being very unequall, and endeavoured to pull one of them off, and so to perswade them to cease, and thereby he came to see who it was they had assaulted, who finding it to be Col. Gerhard which he knew well, and seeing them still pursue their rage upon him, he drew to relieve him, and after some bustle the Portugalls went away, one of them having a cut upon his cheek; and that night afterwards near twenty of their Attendants came to the Exchange, and would have quarrel'd with any body, and some cuffing there was by some, but not much more that night, for it was late, and they returned home.

On Tuesday night, came about fifty of the Portugalls a∣gaine to the New Exchange, of which number were the Am∣bassadours brother, and two Knights of Malta, and they were led on by a Portugall in Buffe, whom they call Cap∣taine, one well known to some in the Exchange, and they had generally double Arms, all or most part of them swords and pistolls, and coats of Male, or Armour, some one thing, some another, to preserve their bodies from swords entring upon them. They had also two or three Coaches that brought Ammunition, in which were hand Granadoes and Bottles, and some little barrells of powder, and bullets, and other necessaries if occasion was. They had also some Boats ready to attend them at the water side, if occasion was for them also.

Thus they came with a resolution to fall upon every Eng∣lish Gentleman they should find in or about the Exchange;

and entring in with this equipage the people were exceeding∣ly frighted. For first came in the Captaine in the Buffe, who led them, and after him the Portugall Ambassadors brother, and the Knights of Malta, and so the rest, all with drawn swords, and in so furious a posture, as if they intended to kill every body they met with, that stood before them.

Hereupon the people fled into the shops in the Exchange to shelter themselves, and all that did not so they fell upon, though no man gave them the least affront, yet they pistol'd and cut, and wounded many.

Mr. Greneway a Gentleman of Grayes Inne, Son to the Lady Greneway was there with his Sister and a Gentlewoman whom he was to have married, who desired them two to sta••d up in a shop where he saw them safe, and they would have had him to have staid with them, but he said he would onely goe see what was the matter; but he was no sooner parted from them, but immediately the word being given by the Portugall Captaine in Buff••, which was Safa, which was the word when they were to fall on, without any af∣front offered towards them, one of them pistol'd him, and shot him in the head, and he is dead of his wounds: and ma∣ny others t••ey have dangerously wounded. Col. Mayo had twelve upon him at once, yet drew his sword, and fought with them as long as he was able to hold his sword in his hand, which being cut, he was forced to let his sword fall, and then cut and wounded him in many places. Mr. Tho: Howard, Mr. Carter, and divers others were wounded passing by.

The Horse at the Muse had taken alarm before they retur∣ned, and returning home, passing by the Muse, some of the Horse mo ing towards them, some of them discharged pi∣stols towards the Horse, and the rest run home to the Ambas∣sadours house; but the Horse guards took some of them and carried them into the Muse, and sent word thereof to the Lord Generall; and a party of horse pursued them, and beset the Ambassadors house. And Commis. Gen. Whalley sent into the Ambassador, acquainted him with this horrible at∣tempt and bloody murther of his Followers, and shewed him

his men they had taken prisoners, and required the chiefe of the rest of them to be delivered in the hands of Justice, which the Ambassador was loath to doe. But seeing he could not baffle them, to stop the course of justce in so horrible a bloody businesse as that had been, he delivered up his brother and one of the Knights of Malta, and some others, such as they had then information was chiefe, and promised to secure the rest to be forth-coming any of them when they should be de∣manded. After which the Ambassador made his Addresse to the Lord Generall, and chiefly for his brother, but his Excel∣lency told him that it did concern the publick, and therefore his Addresses must be to the Parliament and Councell of State. It is such a horrible businesse that his Excellency would not meddle with him in it.

The Portugals that are in custody are prisoners at Jameses, and the businesse is under Examination before the Councell of State.

For his Highness the Lord Protector of the Common-wealth of England, Scotland, and Ireland.

The Declaration, with the humble Addresse of the Generalls, and the severall Commanders present in the Fleet, by them severally subscribed.

THat these Nations of England, Scotland, and Ireland, having been for some years like the Bush which burned, but is not consumed: And though the Nations round about us stand gazing on to see us made a desolation, as well as a hissing unto them; yet we are hitherto by the mighty power of the Lord, and his wonderfull out-goings amongst us, made rather an astonishment in our preservation, then a reproach, by our ruine and devastation.

In which great Work of the Lord we acknowledge with thankfulnesse your Highnesse hath been a glorious Instru∣ment,

and hath undergone many hardships and hazard of all that was near and dear unto you, even to life it selfe; and understanding by providence your Highnesse is intrusted with, and hath excepted of the Protection of this Common-wealth in the Government thereof.

We are in hopes that the Lord intends a settlement of Peace to these poor distracted Nations, and that our selves with all the people of the Lord shall enjoy and partake of the same under your Highnesse Prot••ction, according to the Rule of the Lord Jesus. And therefore we have thought it necessary as a duty incumbent on us, to Declare that we shall willingly be obedient and faithfull to your Highness, in performance of your great Trust, and also in the utmost hazzard of our lives (with what else is near and dear unto us) be serviceable unto you, in the station the Lord hath placed you, against yours and the Common-wealths Enemies, in our severall places and capacities, during our Employments.

And having had good testimony of your great affection and earning bow••••ls after the weale of Gods people, wee are emboldned an•• ••ncouraged in all humility to make this fol∣lowing Addr••••••.

That your ••••••hnesse will be pleased to have a more speci∣all eye of fa•••••••• unto them above all others, in regard they are near and dear unto him, who is the Lord of Lords, and King of Kings, even our Lord Jesus For which cause he is ashamed to call them brethren; And doe humbly apprehend that their priviledges will be your priviledge. And to ac∣count of them as of your greatest Jewells, which will doubt∣lesse turne to your great advantage.

And hereby you will for time to come not onely ingage their hearts unto you, who in times past have not stood at a distance from you, but your Highnesse will also ingage the great Jehovah, your and their Father, to be be a refuge, shield, and defence unto you, as well as an everlasting rest for you, when all the storms of this Common-wealth shall cease, which is and shall be the unfeigned prayers of,

Your Highnesse most humble and faithfull Servants. Signed by the Generalls and the severall Commanders present in the Fleet.

Monday Dec. 12. 1653. It being moved, That the sitting of this Parliament was not for the peace of the Common-wealth; and that therefore it was requisite to deliver up unto the Lord Generall Cromwell the powers which they received from him; and seconded by severall other Members, and the Speaker with many of the Members departed to Whitehall, being the greater number, and did by a writing under their hands resigne unto his Excel∣lency their said powers.

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Saturday, Decemb. 10. 1653.

The Parliament this day resumed the Debate upon the Report made this day from the Committee of Tythes, which is as followes.

1. That it be represented to the Parliament as the best way for ejecting ignorant, prophane, and scandalous Ministers; That Commissioners be sent from hence into all the Coun∣ties, divided into six Circuits (besides London and Middle∣sex) three Commissioners into each Circuit, to joyne with four or six in every County (and each riding in Yorkeshire to be as a County) and that in every County the said persons or five of them (two of the Commissioners sent from hence

being alway present) be impowred to eject all Ministers (of that County) that are not of good behaviour, and ho∣ly in conversation, or that are not apt and able to teach, or in teaching hold not forth the faithfull word, or be not dili∣gent, or labour not in the word and doctrine; or be greedy of filthy lucre: And be also impowred to settle godly and able persons to preach the Gospell in all voyd places, and to unite two or three Parishes together, so that none be above three miles from the publick Meeting-place.

2. That it be presented to the Parliament That Dr. Arrowsmith, Col. G••ffe, Maj. Haines, Mr. John Owen, Mr. Thomas Goodwyn, Mr. Ben of D••rchester, Mr. Fair∣clough the elder, Mr. Lockier, Mr. Caryl, Mr. Stephen Marshall, Mr. Worthington, Mr. Turner, Mr. Tomes, Mr. Martin Holbech, Mr. Cradocke, Mr. Jessey, Mr. Arthur Barnidston, Mr. William Greenhill. Col. Campfield, M^r. Dyke, Mr. Stalham, may be sent Commissioners by three in a circuit for ejecting and setling Ministers, according to the Rules prescribed.

3. That all such as are or shall be approved for publick Preachers of the Gospell in the publick meeting-places, shall have and enjoy the maintenance already setled by Law, and such other encouragement as the Parliament hath already appointed, or hereafter shall appoint: And that where any scruple payment of Tithes, the three next Justices of the Peace, or two of them shall upon complaints call the par∣ties concerned before them, and by the Oaths of witnesses, shall duely apportion the value of the said Tithes, to be paid either in money or Land, by them to be set out according to the said value, to be held and injoyed by him that was to have the said Tithes; and in case such approved value be not duly paid or injoyed according to the Order of the said Justi∣ces; the Tithes shall be paid in kind, and shall be recovered in any Court of Record.

4. That upon hearing and considering what hath been offered to the Committee touching propriety in Tithes, of Incumbents, Rectors, Possessors of Donatives, or propriate Tithes. It is the opinon of this Committe, and resolved

to be reported to the Parliament, that the said persons have a legall propriety in Tithes.

The House having spent severall dayes in debate of the whole Report, and especially of the first of the four parts thereof; and the Question being put, That this House doth agree with the first clause of the Report, it passed in the Ne∣gative.

Monday, Decemb. 12. 1653.

It being moved in the House this day, That the sitting of this Parliament any longer as now constituted, will not be for the good of the Common-wealth; and that therefore it was requ••sit to deliver up unto the Lord Generall Cromwell the powers which they received from him; and that mo∣tion being seconded by severall other members, the House rose, and the Speaker with many of the members of the House, departed out of the House to White-hall, where they, being the greater number of the members sitting in Parliament, did by a writing under their hands resigne to his Excellency their said Powers, and Master Speaker, attended with the Members, did present the same to his Excellency accordingly.

His Excellency the Lord Generall Cromwel and his Coun∣cell of Officers met this day, at which meeting, after a most excellent, wise, gracious, and pious Speech made by his Ex∣cellency, full of Religion towards God, prudence towards the State, and love and care towards this distracted Nation, some things were transacted in order to a settlement, and sweet composure; the union of all that fear the Lord is much desired, that so we may sit down comfortably under a safe and well grounded peace.

The late Parliament having upon their Dissolution delive∣red up the power which they received from his Excellency at their first sitting by a writing under their Hands and Seals: his Excellency thereupon called a Councell of Officers, and advised with other persons of intererest in the Nation, how this great burden of Governing England, Scotland, and Ire∣land, with the Armies therein, and Navies at Sea, should be born, and by whom; who after severall days seeking of God, and advising therein, it was Resolved, That a Councell of

godly able and discreet persons should be named consisting of twenty one: And that his Excellency should be chosen Lord Protector of the three Nations. And on Friday last his Excel∣lency came down to West: and was instolled Lord Protector of the three Nations, the manner whereof was thus.

Decemb. 18. His Excellency the Lord Generall Cromwell about one of the cock in the afternoon, went from White-hall to Westminster in his Coach, foot Souldiers being on both sides the streets all along, and in the Pallace at West∣minster were many Souldiers both Horse and Foot; his Ex∣cellency was attended by the Lords Commissioners of the Great Seal of England, the Judges and Barons of the severall Benches in their Robes, and after them the Councell of the Common-wealth: And the Lord Mayor and Aldermen of the City of London, in their Scarlet Gowns, with the Recor∣der and Town-Clerk, all in their Coaches, who passed before his Excellency: and last of all came his Excellency in a black Suit and Cloak in his Coach, with his Life-Guard, and di∣vers bare before him; and many of the chiefe Officers of the Army with their Cloaks, and Swords, and Hats on, passed on foot before and about his Coach.

In this equipage his Excellency, and Attendants came to Westminsterhall, where was a Chair placed in the High Court of Chancery; where being come, the Lords Commissioners of the Great Seal of England stood next to the Chair, the one on the one side, and the other on the other side, and next to the Lord Commissioner Lisle who stood on the left hand of the Chair, stood his Excellency (all being bare, and his Excellency also) on every side of the Chair; in the next place stood all the Judges and Barons on both sides; and the Lord Mayor & Aldermen on the right side of the Court, next unto the Judges and the Councell, and the chief Officers of the Army on the left side of the Court.

The Rules for this New Government were then read, which consist of many particulars, expressed in an Instru∣ment; the Instrument is large, which took up above halfe an hours reading, and was read by Mr. Jesop, one of the Secre∣taries of the Councell. After which, the Lord Commissioner

Lisle read a Parchment in the nature of an Oath, to eng••ge his Excellency to perform on his part, according to the Go∣vernment before mentioned; During which t••me his Excel∣lency held up his hand, and having beard it read accepted thereof, and subscribed thereto in the face of the Court. Then the Lords Commissioners of the Great Seal, and the Judges, &c. invited him to take possession of the Chair, as Lord Protector of England, Scotland, and Ireland, which he did, and sate down with his head covered, the Court continu∣ing all bare. The Lord Commissioners delivered up to his Highnesse, the Purse and Seals, and the Lord Mayor of London his Sword, which were presently delivered to them back again by his Highnesse; and then after a salute, the Court rose.

First came the Aldermen and Councell before his Highnes, from the Court to Westminster-hall Gate, where the Coaches were; after them the Judges, then came the Commissioners of the Great Seal, one of them bearing the Purse and Seals; and before his Highnesse ca••e the Life-Guard then four Serjeants of Arms with their Maces, one being the Mace of the City of London, the second of the Chancery, the third of the Councell, and the other of the Parliament, born by the sword bearer of London, Serjeant Middleton, Serjeant Dendy, and Serjeant Berkehead; and the Lord Mayor of the City of London went before his Highnesse with the Sword, and the Officers of the Army about his person; and in the Pallace they took Coach at the Hall Gate, and returned to White-hall in the same equipage they went; the Lord Mayor rid bare with the Sword in the Boot of the Coach with his Highnesse; and there were great Acclamations and shout∣ings all along the streets as they passed.

His Highnesse the Lord Protector being returned to White¦hall, he went with his Attendants to the Banqueting House, where they had an Exhortation made by Mr. Lockier, Chap∣lain to his Highnesse; which bing ended, they were dimis∣sed with three Vollies of shot by the Souldiers, between four and five a clock at night.

Decemb. 19. 1653. His Highness the Lord Protector, met with those named of his Councell, in the Councell Chamber

at White-hall, it being the place where the Councell of State used to sit and severall things were Transacted in order to a settlement; and this following Proclamation was ordered to be Printed and published on the Monday following.

This day this Proclamation following was published at Westminster and in the City of London, by divers Serjeants at Arms with their Maces. The Lord Mayor and Aldermen be∣ing present at the Exchange, &c.

By the Councell, A Proclamation.

WHereas the late Parliament dissolv••ng themselves, and resigning their Powers and Authorities, the Go∣vernment of the Common-wealth of England, Scotland, and Ireland, by a Lord Protector, and successive Trienniall Par∣liaments, is now established; and whereas Oliver Cromwell, Captain Generall of all the Forces of this Common-wealth, is declared Lord Protector of the said Nations, and hath ac∣cepted thereof: We have therefore thought it necessary (as we hereby doe) to make Publication of the Premises, and strictly to charge and command all and every person and per∣sons, of what quality and condition soever, in any of the three Nations, to take notice hereof, and to conform and submit themselves to the Government so established. And all Sheriffs, Mayors, Bailiffs, and other Publick Ministers, and Officers, whom this may concern, are required to cause this Proclamation to be forthwith published in their respective Counties, Cities, Corporations, and Market Towns, to the end none may have cause to pretend ignorance in this be∣ha••fe. Given at Whitehall this 16 day of Decem. 1653.

December 21. 1653.

His Highnesse, the Lord Protector, and the Councell be∣ing thirteen in number, sate in the Councell Chamber at White-hall, where his Highnesse in a sweet Speech to them, pressed the Councell to act for God, and the peace and good of the Nations; and particularly recommended to them, to consider and relieve the distresses of the poor and oppressed: And severall things were Transacted in order to a quiet and peaceable settlement of these three Nations.

The Names of the Councell.

• Mr. Lawrence the President.
• L. Viscount Lisle.
• Maj. Ge. Lambert.
• Maj. G. Desbrow.
• Maj. Ge. Skippon.
• Col. Jones.
• Col. Sydenham.
• S^r Gilb. Pickering.
• S^r Charls Wolsley.
• Sir Anthoney Ashley-Cooper.
• Mr. Rous.
• Mr. Strickland.
• Mr. Major.

A Declaration for alteration of severall Names and Forms heretofore used in Courts, &c.

OLIVER, Lord Protector of the Common-wealth of England, Scotland, and Ireland, and the Dominions thereunto belonging, having the exercise of the chief Magi∣stracy, and the administration of Government within the said Common-wealth, invested and established in his Highnesse, assisted with a Councell, who have power untill the meeting of the next Parliament (which is to be on the third of Sep∣tember next) to make Laws and Ordinances for the peace and welfare of these Nations, where it shall be necassary, which shall be binding and in force untill order shall be taken in Parliament concerning the same.

And the said Lord Protector finding it to be most necessa∣ry that some speedy and effectuall course be taken for setling the Names and Forms to be used in Patents, Commissions, and proceedings in Courts of Justice, the said L. Protector, by, and with the advise & consent of his said Councell, and in pursuance of, and according to the power and trust reposed in him and them, doth declare and ordain, and be it by the Authority aforesaid declared and ordained, That in all Courts of Law, Justice or Equity, and in all Writs, Grants, Patents, Commissions, Indictments, Informations, Suits, returns of Writs, and in all Fines, Recoveries, Exemplifications, Recog∣nizances, Proces and Proceedings of Law, justice or equity within the said Common-wealth of England, Scotland, and Ireland, and the Dominions thereto belonging, instead of the Name, Stile, Title, and Teste (of the Keepers of the Liberty of England, by Authority of Parliament) heretofore used, that from and after the 26 of Decem. 1653. the Name, Stile,

Title, and Teste of the Lord Protector for the time being, of the Common-wealth of England, Scotland, and Ireland, and the Dominions thereto belonging, shall be used, and no other, and the date shall be in the year of our Lord and no other. And that all Duties, Profits, Penalties, Issues, Fines, Amercements, and Forfeitures whatsoever, which heretofore were sued for in the Name of the Keepers of the Liberty of England by Authority of Parliament, shall from and after the said 26 of Decem. be prosecuted, sued forth, and recovered in the said name of the Lord Protector, for the time being, of the Common-wealth of England Scotland, and Ireland, and the Dominions thereto belonging, and no other. And in all or any of the proceedings aforesaid, where the words were, The Jurors for the Common-wealth, or, The Jurors for the Keepers of the Liberty of England by Authority of Parliament, do say, or present, from and after the 26 of Decem. it shall be, The Jurors for the Lord Protector of the Common-wealth of Eng∣land, Scotland, and Ireland, &c. doe say, present, and no o∣ther, &c. And it is further Ordained by the Authority afore∣said, That in all Oaths to be given to any Grand or Petty Ju∣ry, or to, or for any Witnesses to give in Evidence to any such Jury or Juries, and all other Oaths wherein the name of Kee∣pers of the Liberty, &c. was wont to be used, the same shall be given in the name of the Lord Protector instead of the name of the said Keepers, &c. any Law, Usage, or Custom, to the contrary in any wise notwithstanding. And it is lastly Ordained by the Authority aforesaid, That such Forms and course of proceedings, as was heretofore used in the name and time of the Keepers of the Liberty, &c. in Causes criminal or civil, & of which no alteration is made in this Ordinance, shall stand and continue to be so used and observed as formerly; & that all Indictments, Presentments, Inquisitions, Commissions, & Captions made with such Alterations, Additions, or Omissi∣ons as aforesaid, or with such other Omissions, Additions, or Alterations as shall be proper and necessary for making good of Indictments Presentments, Commissions, Captions, & In∣quisitions, and supplying the sence and meaning thereof, ac∣cording to the present Government of this Common-wealth

under the Lord Protector as aforesaid, shall stand and be good and effectuall in Law to all intents and purposes, as if the same had been particularly herein named, any Law, Custom or Usage to the contrary in any wise notwithstanding.

The Oath taken by his Highnesse Oliver Cromwell, LORD PROTECTOR.

WHereas the major part of the last Parliament (judg∣ing that their sitting any longer, as then constituted, would not be for the good of this Com:) did d••ssolve the same, and by a writing under their hands, dated the 12 day of this instant Dec. resigned unto Me their powers and Authorities; And whereas it was necessary thereupon, That some speedy course should be taken for the settlement of these Nations upon such a Basis and foundation, as by the blessing of God, might be lasting secure Property, and answer those great ends of Religion and liberty, so long contended for; And upon full and mature consideration had of the Form of Govern∣ment hereunto annexed, being satisfied that the same, through divine assistance, may answer the ends aforementioned: And having also been desired, and advised, as well by severall per∣sons of Interest and Fidelity in this Common-wealth, as the Officers of the Army, to take upon Me the Protection and Government of these Nations in the manner expressed in the said Form of Government, I have accepted thereof, and do hereby declare My acceptance accordingly. And do promise in the presence of God, that I will not violate, and infringe the matters and things contained therein, but to My power observe the same, and cause them to be observed: And shall in all other things, to the best of My understanding, Govern these Nations according to the Laws, Statutes, and Customs, seeking their Peace, and causing Justice and Law to be equally administred.

O. CROMWEL.

OLIVER CROMWEL, Captain Generall of all the Forces of this Common wealth, and now declared Lord Protector thereof, did this 16 day of Decem. 1653. sign this Writing and solemnly promise, as is therein con∣tained, in presence of the Lords Commissioners of the Great Seal of Engl. who administred the same Oath, and of the Lord Mayor and Alderm. of the City of London, divers of the Judges of the Land, the Officers of State and Ar••y, and many other persons of Quality.

[illustration] portrait of Oliver Cromwell

His Excellencie Oliuer Cromwell Generall of all the Fo••der of England Scotland & Ireland Chancelour of y^e Vniuersity of Oxford 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Lord Protector of Eng: Scot & Ire:

Tho: Ienner fecit

The Government of the Common-wealth of England, Scotland, and Ireland.

1. THat the Supre••m Legislative Authority of the Com∣mon-wealth of England, Scotland, and Ireland, and the Dominions thereunto belonging shall be, and reside in One Person, and the people assembled in Parliament; the Stile of which person shall be Lord Protector of the Com∣mon-wealth of England, Scotland and Ireland.

2. That the exercise of the chiefe Magistracy and Admini∣stration of the Government over the said Countries and Do∣minions, & the people thereof, shall be in the Lord Protector, assigned with a Councell, the number whereof shall not ex∣ceed 21, nor be lesse then 13.

3. That all Writs, Proces, Commissions, Patents, Grants, and other things, which now run in the name and stile of the Keepers of the Liberty of England by Authority of Parlia∣ment, shall run in the Name and Stile of the Lord Protector, from whom, for the future, shall be derived all Magistracy and Honours in these three Nations; and shall have the po∣wer of Pardons (e••cept in case of Muder and Treason) and benefit of all Forfeitures 〈◊〉〈◊〉 ••he publick use. And shall Go∣v•••••• 〈…〉〈…〉 ••••tions in all t••••••gs by the 〈…〉〈…〉 to these presents, and the 〈…〉〈…〉

4. 〈…〉〈…〉: sit•••••• ••••all dis∣pose an•• 〈…〉〈…〉 ••••th by S•••• and Land, for the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 and goodli•••••• 〈…〉〈…〉 consent of Parliament And 〈…〉〈…〉 advice and consent of the ma•••••• 〈…〉〈…〉 dispose and order the Misitia for the 〈…〉〈…〉 ••he Interva•••••• of Parliament.

5. That the Lord Protector by the advice aforesaid, shall direct in all things concerning the keeping and holding of a good correspondency with Forreign Kings, Princes, & States, and also with the consent of the major part of the Councell, have the power of war and peace.

6. That the Laws shall not be altered, suspended, abroga∣ted, or repealed, nor any New Law made, nor any Tax, Charge, or Imposition laid upon the people, but by common consent in Parliament, save onely as is expressed in the thir∣tieth Article.

7. That there shall be a Parliament summoned to meet at Westminster upon the third day of Septemb. 1654. and that successively a Parliament shall be summoned once in every third year, to be accounted from the dissolution of the pre∣ceding Parliament.

8. That neither the Parliament to be next summoned, nor any successive Parliaments, shall, during the time of 5 months to be accounted from the day of their first meeting, be adjour∣ned, prorogued or dissolved without their own consent.

9. That as well the next as all other successive Parliaments, shall be summoned and elected in manner hereafter exprest; That is to say, the persons to be chosen within Engl: Wales, the Isles of Jersey and Guernsey, and the Town of Berwick up∣on Tweed, to sit and serve in Parliament, shall be, and not ex∣ceed the number of four hundred. The persons to be chosen within Scotland to sit and serve Parliament shall be, and not exceed the number of thirty. And the persons to be chosen to sit in Pa••liament for Ireland, shall be, and not exceed the number of thi••ty.

10. That the persons to be Elected to sit in Parliament from time to time, for the severall Counties of Engl: Wales, the Isles of Jersey and Guernsey, and the Town of Berwick up∣on Tweed, and all places within the same respectively, shall be according to the proportions and numbers hereafter expres∣sed. That is to say,

For the Town of Bedford 1 County of Bedford 5. Abbing∣ton 1 Reading 1 County of Berks 5. Buckingham 1 Alis∣bury 1 Wiccomb 1 County of Bucks 5. Cambridge 1 Uni∣versity of Camb: 1 Ely 2 County of Cambridge 4. Chester 1 County of Chester 4. Launceston 1 Truro 1 Penrin 1 East∣low and Westlow 1 County of Cornwall 8. Carlisle 1 County of Cumberland 2. Derby 1 County of Derby 4. Excester 2 Plimouth 2 Dartmouth, Clifton, & Hardnesse 1 Totnes 1 Barn∣stable

1 Tiverton 1 Honyton 1 County of Devon 11. Dor∣chester 1 Weymouth & Melcomb-Regis 1 Lyme-Regis 1 Pool 1 County of Dorcet 6. Durham 1 County of Durh: 2. York 2 Kinston upon Hull 1 Beverley 1 Scarborough 1 Richmond 1 Leeds 1 Hallifax 1 Cou: of York, West-Riding 6 East-Riding 4. North-Riding 4. Maldon 1 Colchester 2 Cou: of Essex 13. Gloucester 2 Tewksbury 1 Cirencester 1 County of Gloucester except the said City 5. Hereford 1 Leompster 1 County of Hereford 4. St. Alban 1 Hartford 1 County of Hartford 5. Huntington 1 Cou: of Huntington 3. Canterbury 2 Rochester 1 Maidston 1 Dover 1 Sandwich 1 Quinborough 1 County of Kent 11. Preston in Andernes 1 Lancaster 1 Liverpool 1 Man∣chester 1 County of Lancaster 4. Leicester 2 County of Lei∣cester 4. Lincoln 2 Boston 1 Grantham 1 Stamford 1 Grimsby 1 County of Lincoln 10. Westminster 2 County of Middlesex 4 City of London 6. County of Monmouth 3. Norwich 2 Lyn-Regis 2 Yarmouth 2 County of Norfolk 10. Peterborough 1 Northampton 1 County of Northampton 6. Nottingham 2 County of Nottingham 4, Newcastle upon Tine 1 Berwick 1 County of Northumberland 3. Oxford 1 University of Oxf: 1 Woodstock 1 County of Oxf: 5. County of Rutland 2. Shrews∣bury 2 Bridgnorth 1 Ludlow 1 County of Salop 4. Litchfield 1 Stafford 1 Newcastle on the Line 1 County of Stafford 3. Taunton 2 Bath 1 Wells 1 Bridgwater 1 Cou: of Somerset 11. City of Bristol 2. Winchester 1 Southampton 1 Pertsmouth 1 Isle of Wight 2. Andevor 1 County of Southamp: 8. Ipswich 2 Burrough of Bury St. Edmonds 2 Dunwich 1 Sudbury 1 Coun∣ty of Suffolk 10. Southwark 2 Gilford 1 Rygate 1 County of Surrey 6. Chichester 1 Lewis 1 East-greenstead 1 Arundel 1 Rye 1 Coun: of Sussex 9 Coun: of Westmorland 2. Coventry 2 Warwick 1 County of Warwick 4. Worcester 2. County of Worcester 5. Sarum 2 Marleborough 1 Devizes 1 County of Wilts 10. Coun: of Brecon 2. County of Cardigan 2. County of Carmathen 2. Coun: of Carnarven 2. Coun: of Denbigh 2. County of Flint 2. Town of Cardiffe 1. Coun: of Clamorgan 2. Coun: of Merionoth 1. Coun: of Montgomery 2. Haverford west 1. County of Pembrook 2. County of Radnor 2.

The distribution of the persons to be chosen for Scotland

and Ireland, shall be according to such proportions and num∣ber, as shall be agreed upon, and declared by the Lord Pro∣tector and the major part of the Councell, before the sending forth Writs of Summons for the next Parliament, &c.

11. That the Summons to Parliament shall be by Writ under the Great Seal of England, directed to the Sheriffs of the severall and respective Counties, with such alteration as may suit with the present Government, to be made by the Lord Protector and his Councel, which the Chancellor, Kee∣per, or Commissioners of the Great Seal, shall issue and send abroad by Warrant from the Lord Protector. If the Lord Protector shall not give Warrant for issuing of Writs of Sum∣mons for the next Parliament, before the 1. of June, 1654. o•• for the Trienniall Parliaments before the 1. day of August in every third year, to be accounted as aforesaid, That then the Chancellor, Keeper, or Commissioners of the Great Seal for the time being, shall without any warrant or direction within seven dayes after the said 1. day of June, 1654. seal, issue, and send abroad Writs of Summons, &c.

12. That at the day and place of Elections, the Sheriff of each County, and the said Mayors, Sheriffs, Bailiffs, and other head-Officers within their Cities. Towns, Burroughs and pla∣ces respectively, shall take view of the said Elections, and shall make return into the Chancery within twenty dayes after the said Elections, &c. wherein shall be contained, that the per∣sons elected shall not have power to alter the Government as it is hereby setled in one single person and a Parliament.

13. That the Sheriff, who shall wittingly and willingly make any false return or neglect his duty, shall incur the pe∣nalty of two thousand Marks.

14. That all and every person and persons, who have aid∣ed, advised, assisted or abetted in any war against the Parlia∣ment since the first day of January, 1641. (unlesse they have been since in the service of the Parliament, and given signall testimony of their good affection thereunto) shall be disabled and uncapable to be elected, or to give any Vote in the E∣lection of any Members to serve in the next Parliament, or in the three succeeding Trienniall Parliaments.

15. That all such, who have advised, assisted, or abetted the Rebellion of Ireland, shall be disabled and uncapable for ever to be Elected, or to give any Vote in the election of any Mem∣ber to serve in Parliament; as also all such who doe or shall professe the Roman Catholick Religion.

16. That all Votes and Elections given or made contrary, or not according to these Qualifications, shall be null and void: And if any person who is hereby made uncapable, shall give his Vote for Election of Members to serve in Parliament, such person shall lose and forfeit one full years value of his reall Estate, and one full third part of his personall Estate.

17. That the persons who shall be elected to serve in Par∣liament, shall be such (and no other then such) as are persons of known integrity, fearing God, and of good conversation, and being of the age of 21 years.

18. That all and every person and persons seized or posses∣sed to his own use, of any estate reall or personall, to the value of 200 l. and not within the aforesaid exceptions shall be ca∣pable to elect Members to serve in Parliam. for Counties.

19. That the Chancellor, Keeper, or Commissioners of the Great Seal, shall be sworn before they enter into their Offices, truly and faithfully to issue forth, and send abroad Writs of Summons to Parliaments at the times and in the manner be∣fore expressed: And in case of neglect or failer to issue and send abroad writs accordingly, he or they shall for every such offence be guilty of High Treason, and suffer the paines and penalties thereof.

20. That in case writs be not issued out as is before exprest, but that there be a neglect therein, fifteen days after the time wherein the same ought to be issued out by the Chancellor, Keeper or Commissioners of the great Sea that then the Par∣liament shall, as often as such failer shall happen assemble and be held at Westminster, in the usuall place, at the times pre∣fixt, &c.

21. That the Clerk, called the Clerk of the Commonwealth, in Chancery for the time being and all others, who shall after∣wards execute that Office, to whom the Returns shal be made, shall for the next Parliament, & the two succeeding Trieniall

Parliaments, the next day after such Return, certifie the names of the several persons so returned, and of the places for which he and they were chosen respectively, unto the Councel who shall peruse the said Returns, and examine whether the per∣sons so Elected and Returned, be such as is agreeable to the Qualifications, & not disabled to be Elected: And that every person and persons being so duly Elected, and being approved of by the major part of the Councell to be persons not disa∣bled, but qualified as aforesaid, shall be esteemed a Member of Parliament, and be admitted to sit in Parliament, and not otherwise.

22 That the persons chosen and assembled in manner a∣foresaid, or any sixty of them, shall be, and be deemed the Parliament of England, Scotland, & Ireland, and the Supream Leg••sl••tive power to be and reside in the Lord Protector and such Parliament, &c.

23. That the Lord Protector, with the advice of the major pa t of the Councel, shall at any other time then is before ex∣prest, when the necessities of the State shall require it, summon Parliaments in manner before exprest, which shall not be ad∣journed, prorogued, or dissolved without their own consent, during the first three months of their sitting. And in case of future war with any Forreign State, a Parliam. shall be forth∣with summoned for their advice concerning the same.

24. That all Bills agreed unto by the Parliament, shall be presented to the Lord Protector for his consent; and in case he shall not give his consent thereto, within twenty dayes after they shall be presented to him, or give satisfaction to the Par∣liament within the time limited; That then upon Declara∣tion of the Parliament, that the Lord Protector hath not con∣sented nor given satisfaction, such Bills shall passe into, and become Laws, although he shall not give his consent there∣unto; provided such Bills contain nothing in them contrary to the matters contained in these presents.

25. That Phillip L. Viscount Lisle, Charls Fleetwood Esq; John Lambert Esq; Sir Gilbert Pickering Baronet, Sir Charls Woolsley Bar. Sir Anthony Ashley-Cooper Bar. Edw: Montagu Esq; John Desbrow Esq; Walter Strickland Esq; Henry Law∣rence

Esq; William Sydenham Esq; Phillip Jones Esq; Rich: Major Esq; Francis Rous Esq; Phillip Skippon Esq; or any seven of them shall be a Councell for the purposes exprest in this Writing; and upon the death or other removall of any of them, the Parliament shall nominate six persons of Ability, Integrity, and fearing God, for every one that is dead or re∣moved, out of which the major part of the Councell shall elect two, and present them to the Lord Protector, of which he shall elect one, &c.

26. That the Lord Protector and the major part of the Councell aforesaid, may at any time before the meeting of the next Parliament, add to the Councell such persons as they shall think fit; provided the number of the Councell be not made thereby to exceed 21, and the Quorum to be propor∣tioned accordingly by the Lord Protector and the major part of the Councell.

27. That a constant yearly Revenue shall be raised, setled and established for maintaining of ten thousand Horse and Dragoons, and twenty thousand Foot, in England, Scotland, and Ireland, for the defence and security thereof, and also for a convenient number of Ships for guarding of the Seas; besids two hundred thousand pound per annum for defraying the o∣ther necessary Charges for administration of Justice, and other expences of the Government; which Revenue shall be raised by the Customs and such other wayes and means as shall be agreed upon by the Lord Protector & the Councel, and shall not be taken away or diminisht, nor the way agreed upon for raising the same altered, but by the consent of the Lord Pro∣tector and the Parliament.

28. That the said yearly Revenue shall be paid into the publick Treasury, & shall be issued out for the uses aforesaid.

29. That in case there shall not be cause hereafter to keep up so great a Defence at Land or Sea, but that there be an a∣batement made thereof, the mony which will be sav'd there∣by, shall remain in bank for the publick Service, and not be imployed to any other use but by consent of Parliament; or in the intervals of Parliament by the Lord Protector and major part of the Councell.

30. That the raising of money for defraying the charge of present extraordinary Forces both at Land and Sea, in respect of the present wars, shall be by consent in Parliament and not otherwise: Save onely that the Lord Protector, with the con∣sent of the major part of the Councell, for preventing the dis∣orders and dangers which may otherwise fall out both at Sea and Land, shall have power untill the meeting of the first Par∣liament, to raise money for the purposes aforesaid, and also to make Lawes and Ordinances for the peace and welfare of these Nations, where it shall be necessary, which shall be binding and in force, untill Order shall be taken in Parl. con∣cerning the same.

31. That the Lands, Tenements, Rents, Royalties, Juris∣dictions and Hereditaments which remain yet unsold or un∣disposed of by Act or Ordinance of Parliament, belonging to the Common-wealth (except the Forrests and Chases, and the Honors and Mannors belonging to the same; the Lands of the Rebels in Ireland, lying in the four Counties of Dublin, Corke, Kildare, & Katerlaugh, the Lands forfeited by the peo∣ple of Scotland in the late wars, and also the Lands of Papists and Delinquents in England who have not yet compounded) shall be vested in the Lord Protector, to hold, to him and his Successors Lord Protectors of these Nations, and shall not be aliened but by consent in Parliament. And all Debts, Fines, Issues, Amerciaments, penalties and profits, certain and ca∣suall, due to the Keepers of the Liberties of Engl: by Autho∣rity of Parliament, shall be due to the Lord Protector, and be payable unto his publick Receipt, and shall be recovered and prosecuted in his Name.

32. That the Office of the Lord Protector over these Nati∣ons, shall be Elective and not Hereditary; and upon the death of the Lord Protector, another fit person shall be forthwith Elected, to succeed him in the Government, which Election shall be by the Councell, &c. Provided that none of the Chil∣dren of the late King, nor any of his Line or Family, be Ele∣cted to be Lord Protector or other chief Magistrate over these Nations, or any the Dominions thereto belonging. And un∣till the aforesaid Election be past, the Councell shall take care

of the Government, and administer in all things as fully as the Lord Protector, or the Lord Protector and Councell are inabled to doe.

33. That O. Cromwell, Captain Generall of the Forces of England, Scotland, and Ireland, shall be, and is hereby decla∣red to be Lord Protector of the Commonwealth of England, Scotland, and Ireland, and the Dominions thereto belonging, for his life.

34. That the Chancellor, Keeper, or Commissioners of the Great Seal, the Treasurer, Admirall chiefe Governors of Ire∣land and Scotland, and the chiefe Justices of both the Benches, shall be chosen by the approbation of Parliament; and in the intervalls of Parl. by the approbation of the major part of the Councell, to be afterwards approved by the Parl.

35. That the Christian Religion contained in the Scrip∣tures be held forth & recommended as the publick profession of these Nations; and that as soon as may be, a provision, lesse subject to scruple and contention, and more certain then the present, be made for the encouragement and maintenance of able and painfull Teachers, for instructing the people, and for discovery and confutation of Error, Heresie, and what∣ever is contrary to sound Doctrine: And that untill such provision be made, the present maintenance shall not be ta∣ken away nor impeached.

36. That to the publick profession held forth, none shall be compelled by penalties or otherwise, but that endeavors be used to win them by sound Doctrine, and the example of a good conversation.

37. That such as professe Faith in God by Jesus Christ (though differing in judgement from the Doctrine, worship, or Discipline publickly held forth) shall not be restrained from, but shall be protected in the profession of the Faith, and exercise of their Religion; so as they abuse not this liberty, to the civill injury of others, and to the actuall disturbance of the ••ublick peace on their parts, provided this liberty be not extended to popery nor prelacy, nor to such as under the pro∣fession of Christ hold forth and practise licentiousnesse.

38. That all Laws, Statutes, Ordinances and Clauses in any

Law, Statute and Ordinance to the contrary of the aforesaid Liberty, shall be esteemed as null and void.

39. That the Acts and ordinances of Parliament, made for the sale or other disposition of the Lands, Rents and Heredi∣taments of the late King, Queen and Prince, of Arch-Bishops and Bishops, &c. Deans and Chapters, the Lands of Delin∣quents, and Forest Lands, or any of them, or of any other Lands, Tenements, Rents and Heriditaments belonging to the Common-wealth, shall no wayes be impeached or made invalid, but shall remain good and firme: And that the Secu∣rities given by Act and Ordinance of Parliament for any sum or sums of mony, by any of the said Lands, the Excise, or by any other publick Revenue; and also the Securities given by the publick Faith of the Nation, and the engagement of the publick Faith for satisfaction of Debts and Damages, shall re∣main firm and good, and not be made voyd and invalid upon any pretence whatsoever.

40. That the Articles given to, or made with the Enemy, and afterwards confirmed by Parliament, shall be performed and made good to the persons concerned therein. And that such appeals, as were depending in the last Parliament, for re∣liefe concerning Bils of sale of Delinquents Estates, may be heard and determined the next Parl. any thing in this writing, or otherwise to the contrary notwithstanding.

41. That every successive L. Protector over these Nations, shall take and subscribe a solemn Oath, in the presence of the Councell, & such others as they shall call to them that he will seek the peace, quiet, and welfare of these Nations, cause law and Justice equally to be administred, and that he will not violate or infringe the matters and things contained in this writing; and in all other things will to his power, and to the best of his understanding, govern these Nations according to the Laws, Statutes, and Customs.

42. That each person of the Councel shall, before they en∣ter upon their Trust, take, & subscribe an Oath, That they will be true and faithfull to their Trust, according to the best of their knowledge; and that in the election of every successive Lord Protector, they shall proceed therin impartially, and do nothing therein for any promise, fear, favour, or reward.

Aprill 25. 1654. Four Ordinances were published touching Scotland.

[illustration] coat of arms of the Commonwealth

••••••ting Scoctland into one Common-wealth with England S^t Andrews ••••••osse y^e Scots Arms be born in the Arms of this Common-w••••t••

THirty persons to be called from Scotland in every Parlia∣ment. That Charls Stewart, and all of the late Kings posterity, be disabled to enjoy the Crown of Scotland, or Name, Title, Stile, Dignity, Honors, or any Possessions of any Hereditaments thereto belonging; As also the Convo∣cation of the three Estates of Scotland to be abolished. That Custom and Excise of Goods, be no otherwise between Eng∣land and Scotland, then from one place of England to another. That Taxes be proportionable to England. And that all Pos∣sessors of Lands after Apr. 12. 1654. shall hold their Lands of the Lords, by Deed, Patent, or Enfeoffment, to be renewed upon the death of every Heritor to his Heirs, under such Rents, and Services as are due by Deeds now in being, without rendring any other duty, service, vassalage or demand whatsoever, ex∣cept Heritors where the same are due. A Court Barron eve∣ry three weeks, to Judge all Contracts, Debts, Promises, and Trespasses not exceeding 40 s. sterling.

July 1. 1654. The High Court of Justice met in Westmin∣ster-hall, the Lord Com. Lisle sate as President, their Com∣mission was read, and the Court called over by their names; Mr. Atturney Gen. Prideaux, Mr. Sollicitor Gen. Ellis, and Mr. Serjeant Glin, were Counsell for his Highnesse the Lord Protector. The Lieut. of the Tower, first brought Mr. Somer∣set Fox, one of the Conspirators in the late Treason, to the Bar, and Mr. Atturney Gen. then presented a Charge of High Treason against him ingrossed in parchment to the Court, which was read: The Prisoner said very little to it, but made a Confession to the Court of so much as (he said) he was guilty of, having some few dayes before made the like confession, and given it under his hand as the tru h, and ac∣cordingly owned it in Court, his confession under his own hand was also read, which did discover what was his part to act as an Agent in this bloody designe. The Court having satisfied th••mselves concerning Mr. Fox, the Lievt. of the Tower brought Mr. John Gerrard, and Mr. Peter Vowell, to the Bar, where F••x also stood, and the like Charge of High Treason was read against them also; which Charge consist∣ed of these heads, viz. The murdering of his Highness the Lord Protector as he should go to Hampton Court on a Saterday pre∣fixt: The seizing of all the Guards about Whitehall, the Mews, & St. Jameses, & the making of themselves masters of the City of London, and the Tower with all the Magazines within the same: The proclaiming of Charls Stuart King, & chief Magi∣strate of England, Scotland, and Ireland, and the Dominions thereunto belonging, and other high Treasons tending to involve the Common-wealth in a new bloody war. To which charge of High Treason the said Gerard and Vowel pleaded Not guilty, pretending much ignorance, and that they were innocent of the knowledge of any such designe; and did very much presse the Court to grant them Counsell to advise withall, and that they might be tried by a Jury, which being not to be granted unto them, and waved, severall Witnesses were produced upon their Oaths to make appear what they were charged with, as John Wiseman, Dr. Hudson, a blind man, Mr. Charls Gerhard Brother to the Prisoner, Capt. Dale, one

Mr. Wharton, and others, who did sufficiently prove, That Mr. Gerrard was to command the party who were to mur∣der his Highnesse the L. Protector as he was going to Hamp∣ton Court with thirty Horse; and that the said Gerrard had engaged to bring 25 of the 30, and Maj. T: Henshaw was to bring 5 more: and it was also proved against him, that he, with Maj. Henshaw, and the Witnesse J. Wiseman, did view the severall Guards at Whitehall, the Mewes, and St. Jameses, and had computed and designed 600 Horse as sufficient to seize and secure those Guards, appointing also a party of Horse to march into Tuttle-fields, as friends, and so to fall upon the forces then mustering, and cut them off: It was also proved against him by his Brother Mr. Charles Gerrard, that he was at severall meetings at his own Chamber near Essex house, and at other places with Maj. Henshaw, and Finch, and others, about this designe, and particularly at Mr. Jones his House in Rose street in Covent Garden where in a Chamber Henshaw and Finch gave an account that they had each of them listed 800 men to be ready at a dayes war∣ning; severall other things were proved, which he obsti∣nately denied; but confest his name was much used there∣in, but was no intent Actor. And for Mr. Vowell, severall Witnesses upon their Oaths did testifie, that he was at many meetings with Henshaw, Finch, Gerhard, and other of the Plotters to contrive the management of this businesse, be∣ing a person thought more fit to be a Councellor, then an Actor, and his reward should have been to be Master of Sut∣tons Hospitall; and it was also proved against him, though he could not act himselfe, yet he promised to procure those that should act, and did engage one Capt. Billingsley, who undertook to provide Riders for the Horses who should be taken out of Islington fields; it was also proved his buying of Pistols, and many other things sufficient to prove his hand deep in the businesse. And for Somerset Fox, he confessed so much as saved the Court much trouble in examining witnes∣ses: His part was, to engage as many Apprentices and Citi∣zens of London as he could in the businesse, that so when the falling on was upon the Guards at White hall, the Mewes and

St. Jameses, and Col. Ingeldsbies Regiment in Southwark and the rest of the Plot was in agitation, there might be a rising and tumult made purposely in the City, to imploy what force was there, that no help might come elsewhere; and the Lord Mayor was to have been seized and carried to proclaim Charls Stuart King at the Exchange, and Dr. Wharton was to see him proclaimed: yet notwithstanding all these witnesses, Gerhard and Vowell denyed they knew of any thing of such a designe; but they were not so satisfied, but that a base design was intended, too unworthy for a Gentleman to have his hand in, as did further appear by the testimony of John Wise∣man, who did relate his going over into France with his bro∣ther in Law Maj. Henshaw, where they met the said Mr. Ger∣hard at Paris, and there had free accesse to the pretended King of Scots, about this designe, and received great encourage∣ment in the businesse from Prince Rupert; whereupon Hen∣shaw and Wiseman returned into England, and Mr. Gerhard came over about 3 weeks after to put the businesse in agitati∣on, immediately upon his arrivall, the said Henshaw, Finch, &c. repaired to his lodging near Essex house, and received an account of the busines, and so proceeded to act, as the said Wiseman testified. The Witnesses being all examined, and the Prisoners heard what they could say for themselves, the At∣torney Gen. Solicitor Gen. and the Councell for the Com∣monwealth summ'd up all the Evidences, and drew them in∣to severall heads, which they presented to the Court with the Prisoners at the Bar, as objects of their Justice, the said Ger∣hard and Vowell still remaining obstinate. The Prisoners were commanded back to the Tower.

July 6. The Portugall Ambassadors Brother, and the rest, we••e againe brought to their Tryall at the Ʋpper Bench at Westminster and a Jury of 12 men, whereof 6 Denizes and 6 Aliens Impannel'd and swore: The Ambass: Brother plead∣ed very hard his ignorance in the Lawes of England, and de∣sired Councell, but that was denied, and he told, That the Court were of Councell equall, and alike to him, as to the Common-wealth, and would doe according to Law and the Justice of the Cause; Hereupon many Witnesses were

sworn and examined, and upon full hearing of the Evidence, and what the Prisoners could say, the Jury withdrew, and in a short time returned, and delivered their Verdict by their Foreman (all agreeing) finding them all 5 guilty of the mur∣ther and Felony for which they stood indicted; whereupon Judgement was afterwards pronounced, after a short speech made by the L: Chief Justice Rolls in the name of the Court, That they should return from whence they came and from thence be carried to the place of Execution, & there seveally to be han∣ged by the neck till they are dead. The day appointed Saturday, but the Prisoners moved for respite till Monday, which was granted.

This afternoon also the High Court of Justice sat in West∣minster-hall, and there was brought before them Mr. Gerard, Mr. Vowel, and Mr. Fox, who were demanded what they had more to say for themselves, Gerhard and Vowell spake much to excuse themselves, notwithstanding what had been proved against them; after which the L. President Lisle made a lear∣ned speech, to convince them of the desperate wickednesse of their designe, and how fully the Charge had been proved, and what punishments the Law had provided in such cases, after which the Sentence of the Court was read severally to all three, to this effect, That upon mature consideration of the Treasons and Murthers plotted, and contrived, by them against his Highnesse the Lord Protector, and the Common-wealth, and raising a bloody war in the same, the Court did adjudge them to be hanged by the neck untill they be dead. Mr. Gerhard desi∣red the Execution might be altered, that he might be be∣headed or shot to death, and therefore petitioned to the Lord Protector.

About 4 in the afternoon, Mr. John Gerhard was brought to the Scaffold on Tower-hill, his behaviour was sprightly, the substance of his discourse Cavalier-like, boasting himselfe of the profession of Religion which was established by Queen Elizabeth, K. James, and Charls, to which family he declared his affection. He acknowledged himself guilty of former sins (but named them not) for which he had deserved death heretofore; but as touching the Crime for which he was to

die, he spent not many words, onely he confessed that he knew of the plot. At length he submitted his neck to the Exe∣cutioner, who at once severed the Head from the Body.

July 10. 1654. Don Pontaleon Sa, Brother to the Portu∣gall Ambassador, and Mr. John Gerhard, were both beheaded at Towerhill.

[illustration] depiction of a beheading at Tower Hill

But a little before he lay down, came the Portugal Ambas∣sadors Brother, Don Pontaleon Sa. A very observable hand of Providence that these two persons, Gerhard and the Don, who began that quarrell, in the prosecution whereof the murther was committed at the New Exchange, should meet thus to die at the same time and place, for different crimes. It is also to be noted, that God did even mark out this Portugall for Justice; for when he escaped out of Newgate at first, he was immediately found out: and now having by Order of the Court been remanded to the Keeper of Newgate, he was very near an escape thence againe, but the Lord prevented him: For yesternight, being Lords day at night, a new plot

was laid for his escaping by two women, one was Mrs. Gourdon who brought another woman, who under her womans ap∣parrell had a Foot-boys suit on; the womans cloths being taken off, they drest up the Don in them, and so he came down with Mrs. Gourdon, to to the door, where the Keeper narrow∣ly prying under the hood, discovered the fraud, and spoyled the businesse. This failing, and the hour of execution next day approaching, he was conveyed from Newgate to Tower hill in a Coach and six Horses in mourning having divers of of his Brothers retinue with him, much lamenting his condi∣tion. Being upon the Scaffold, he spake somewhat to those that understood him, in excuse of his offence, laying the blame of the quarrell and murther upon the English. So after some few private words and passages of Popish devotion with his Confessor, he surrendred to him his Beads and Crucifix, and his Head to the Block, which was chopt off with somewhat more then a single blow. The rest condemned about th t murther, were reprieved all, save an Irish man, who was exe∣cuted also this day early in the morning, at Tiborn.

In the morning also of this day, the Articles of Peace being fully concluded betwixt England and Portugall, were signed by the said Ambassador, and immediately thereupon he with∣drew from his house out of Town.

It pleased his Highnesse to reprieve Somerset Fox, because of his ingenuous confession, but this day the other two were executed for their Treasons against his Highnes and the Com∣monwealth. Vowel a School-master, was in the morning ex∣ecuted upon a Gallows at Charing-Crosse, and in the same place it was expected Gerhard should have suffered the same death, but he had the favour granted him to loose his head: Vowel spake little of the crime for which he suffered, but the main of his discourse was to proclaim how great a Zelot he was to the old way of Religion, and to the cause of the late King and his family; wherein he let fall divers expressions tending to sedition, and few of repentance for his fault touch∣ing which he would not speak out, but willed the Executioner to doe his Office, and so after halfe an hours hanging he was cut down, and conveyed away in a Coach.

The form of an Indenture between the Sheriff, and the E••••ctors of Person, to se••ve in Parl. for Counties.

[illustration] depiction of Parliament

THis Indenture made the _____ _____ day of _____ _____ in the year of our Lord, one thousand six hundred fifty and four, at _____ _____ in the County of _____ _____ Between _____ _____ Sheriff of the County aforesaid of the one part, and C. D. E. F. G. H. and divers other persons qualified and capable to Elect Members to serve in Parliament for Counties, as is pre∣scribed in the Goverment of the Commonwealth of England, Scotland, and Ireland, witnesseth, That Proclamation having been made in every Market-Town in the County aforesaid, within ten dayes after the receit of a certain Writ of the Lord Protector to the aforesaid Sheriff directed, and to one part of these Indentures annexed for the Election of _____ _____ Knights, fit and discreet persons of the County aforesaid, for the Par∣liament of the said Lord Protector, in the Writ aforesaid spe∣cified to be chosen, and to be at the Parliament of the said Lord Protector, at Westminster in the County of Middlesex, the third day of September next to be held; The aforesaid C. D. E. F. G. H. &c. and divers other Persons of the Coun∣ty aforesaid, who were present at such Election, freely and in∣differently have chosen _____ _____ Knights girt with Swords, that is to say, A. B. &c. to be in the Parliament aforesaid, as in the said Writ is mentioned, who for themselves, as also for all the People of the County aforesaid, have full and suffi∣cient power to doe and consent unto those things, which in

the aforesaid Parliament shall then and there, by common consent and councell, happen to be ordained. Provided, and it is hereby Declared, That the persons so chosen shall not have power to alter the Government as it is now setled in one single person and a Parliament. In witnesse whereof, as well the Seal of the Office of the said Sheriff, as also the Seals of the Electors aforesaid, the day, year, and place above∣said, to these Indentures are put and affixed.

The form of an Indenture between the Sheriff, and the Burgesses and Inhabitants of Burroughs.

THis Indenture made the _____ _____ day of _____ _____ in the year of our Lord, one thousand six hundred fifty and four, Between A. B. High Sheriff of the County of _____ _____ of the one part, and C. D. E. F. G. H. &c. Burgesses and Inhabitants of the Burrough of _____ _____ of the other part, witnesseth, That by vertue of a Warrant unto J: K: _____ _____ of the said Burrough of _____ _____ from the said High Sheriff to him directed, for the Electing and choosing of _____ _____ Burgesses of good understanding, knowledge and dis∣cretion for Causes concerning the publick good of this Com∣monwealth, To be at his Highnesse Parliament to be ••olden at Westminster the third day of September next; we the said Burgesses and Inhabitants there, have made choice and electi∣on of L. and M. to be Burgesses of the said Burrough of _____ _____ to attend at the said Parliament according to the tennor of the said Warrant unto him the said I. K. directed in that behalfe; who for themselves and people of the said Burrough have full power to doe and consent to those things which in Parliament shall happen: Provided they alter not the Go∣vernment from one single person and a Parliament. In wit∣nesse whereof we the parties above named to these presents interchangeably set our hands and Seals, the day and year first above written.

January 22. 1654.

The five months (according to the instrument of the Go∣vernment for the time allotted to sit) being expired, his High∣nesse the Lord Protector sent a message to them to meet him in the Painted Chamber, about 12 of clock; where they be∣ing met, he made a speech about two hours lo••g for the dis∣solving of the Parliament, and so declared than he did dissolve them.

[illustration] portrait of Charles II

Charles by y^e grace of God, Prince of Wales, Duke of Cornwell, etc.

YOu will easily believe that I am very well perswaded, to hear how carefull and solicitous you are for my con∣cernments, and of the course you resolve to take: The truth is, I have been so tender of my friends, that I have de∣ferred to call upon them to appear, till I could find my selfe able to give them good incouragements from abroad; but

since I find that comes on so slowly, I would no longer re∣fraine those affections, which I must desire to be beholding to; and have reason to believe, that if they who wish one and the same thing, knew each others minds, the work would be done without any difficulty, and if there were any hand∣some appearance in any one place, the rest would not sit still, and I am perswaded I should then find supplies from those who are yet afraid to offer them; however I am sure I would my selfe be with those that first wished for me, and to that purpose I would keep my selfe within a reasonable distance. Consult with those you dare trust, if you are alrea∣dy ag••eed upon a time, and you cannot promise your selves any thing that you will be disappointed in, and which is in the Power of

Your affectionate friend CHARLS R.

July 16. 1655.

March 13. 1655.

THis day his Highnesse, as also the Members of the Coun∣cell, and the Officers of the Army, were busie about the Plot, and to subdue the risings in severall places.

All the Horses about London were this day seized on by Order from his Highnesse and the Councell, to prevent any rising here.

This evening some hundred of Armes where brought into Whitehall from the Tower by water in Boats, Backs, and Brests, and Swords, which are there ready as occasion shall offer for use.

His Highnesse and the Councell sate very late (untill after midnight) this night, making all possible means for suppres∣sion of all tumults and insurrections, touching which severall Commissions, and Instructions, and Letters, were dispatched to the severall Counties, to the end the Common-wealth

may be established in Peace, that those who are risen may be suppressed, and to prevent the like in other places.

A Relation of the severall Risings, the truth whereof is as followeth.

THere were some Cavaliers said to be risen about Merio∣neth shire, and other parts in Wales, reported in all to be 7 or 8 hundred, but not like to be so many of that party, for some of those that rise in Wales were Inhab••tants to oppose any that should rise as was feared, which intended to joyne with those of the Army.

Another party were risen in Nottingham shire, noised to be 500, but not thought so many, towards whom a party from Col. Hacker marched out of Leicester shire to suppresse them; their intent was thought to be, to have joyned with another party at Shrewsbury which were discovered, and so their designe frustrated.

There were four men to go into Shrewsbury Castle, two in womans apparrell, and the other two as their men to wait on them; who being got in, at a seasonable time were to give notice by shooting off a Pistoll to a party of horse which they were to let in, and so surprize the Castle, of which Collonell Mackworth, one of the sons of the old Collonell Mackworth deceased, now the Governour, having notice, prevented their designe; and hath apprehended the Lord Newport, one White, Sir Thomas Harris, and severall of the Actors: about 100 horse were found in a Barn, and the Armes under straw in the same Barn, which are taken, and those parts secured. Chester was also intended to be seized on.

Those that were risen in Nottingham shire so soon as they had an Alarm from Collonell Hackers Troops marching against them from Leicester shire, the chiefe of the Cava∣liers met in consultation what to doe, and presently resolved to disperse and be gone; because they were prevented of joy∣ning with those intended to have risen at Shrewsbury, and

that a party of the Army were marching towards them, and they had no security to retreat any where; the Countries about not rising as was expected, but rather opposing them: It was debated what they should doe with their Armes, for they had received a Cart load of Armes, some would have had them thrown into the water, but it was resolved to have them sent back to the house from which they were sent to them, which accordingly was done, and the Cavaliers dispersed presently upon it; and some of the chief of them are appre∣hended, and the Armes seized on.

Yorke. March 26. 1655.

Sir Richard Maliverer, on Thursday night last, sent for all his Tennants to a great Supper, and then invited them all to joyne with him in taking up Armes, and told them they intended that night to take Yorke for the King, and appoin∣ted them a gate where he would meet them, some four went along with him, divers Gentlemen met them upon Hessay More, and Carts laden with Armes; after they had been there a while, the appearance was so small, to what was ex∣pected, that they parted againe. Sir Richard Maliverer went home, and bid his Lady to take the best course she could for her selfe, for he was necessitated to flye, wishing himselfe well arrived beyond the Seas, and so departed from her.

The Intelligence touching the Cavaliers that were at Salisbury, is as followeth.

THe Judges came to Salisbury on Saterday last, being met by Mr. Dove the High Sheriff and his men, and that divers of the Cavaliers came into the Town, it being a time (as they supposed) of least suspicion. On the Lords day about midnight the Cavaliers randezvouzed, and were above 100. Monday morning early they seized all the horses, sei∣zed on the Sheriff about seven a clock, would have forced him to proclaime Charles Stewart King, which he refusing,

they wounded him in severall places, cut him over the face with a sword, knocked him over the head with a pistoll, yet he told them he would loose his life before he would doe it, and though he offered them money and other offe••s, yet they took him away. The Commander in chief was one Sir Joseph Wagstaffe, formerly a Lieut. Collonell, at the beginning of the late wars, in the Parliaments Army; but now revolted to the late King, was a Collonell under him; a••d now Major Generall to this intended Brigade for Charls St••wart. And they plundred both the Judges, the Sheriff, the Justices, the Lawyers, and Gentlemen, and all, of all they coul•• get fit to carry away; But afterwards one Penruddock told the Judges that Maj. Gen. Wagstaffe had given o••ders to assure them, that they should receive no harm in their own persons. After that they had taken from the Judges their Paroll, they let out the prisoners, some for debt (as Mr. Gokin who was in for 1000 l. and others) and all the Theeves and male∣factors, with their Irons upon them, mounted those that would joyne with them, and went out (after they had pro∣claimed Charls Stewart King) being about 200. And from thence went to Blanford, incouraging their followers, that their chiefe Leader was comming from France to head them with 10000 men, for they began to be discouraged that the Country people did not rise and joyne with them as was ex∣pected; so that some of them have left them, among which some of them are come to Whitehall to beg pardon. They went from thence towards Dorchester.

The chief are said to be,

• M. Gen. Sir Joseph Wagstaffe
• Sir Henry More of Berkshire
• John Penruddock Esq;
• Maj. Henry Clark Esq;
• ...Thomas Mumparsons
• Lieut. Col. Boll
• Capt. Hugh Grove,
• Two of the Joneses, &c.

There are divers of them taken.

• Col: Penruddocke, Col: Jones,
• Mr. John Dean, And Mr. Lucas,

Were Executed, at the appointed places, on Thursday and Friday last, at Salisbury and Excester, being the 3 and 4 of this instant May, 1655.

[illustration]

Sir William Ingram, Sir Walter Vavasor, Sir Hen: Slingsby, and divers other Gentlemen, are suspected to have had an hand in the businesse; a party of horse is gone this morning to secure such as can be found: Sir William Ingram is brought in already.

Part of the Instructions and Orders given to the Major Generalls for preserving the Peace of the Common-wealth, are as followeth.

THey are to endeavor the suppressing all Tumults, Insur∣rections, Rebellion, or other unlawfull Assemblies, which shall be within the said Counties, as also all Invasions from a∣broad, and to that purpose shall have power to draw together

the said Forces or Troops, and march into such places as they shall judge convenient in England and Wal••s.

They are to take care and give order, That all Papists and others who have been in Armes against the Parliament, or assisted the late King or his Son in the late Wars, as also all others who are dangerous to the peace of the Nation, be dis∣armed, and their Arms secured in some adjacent Garrisons, or otherwise disposed of, as may be for the publick service.

And to the end that the Highways and Roads may be more safe for Travellers, and the many Robberies and Burglaries daily comm••tted may be prevented They, with the said Cap∣tains and Officers shall use their best endeavors to find out all such Thieves, Robbers, Highway-men, and other dangerous persons as lurk & lie hid in any place within the several Coun∣ties, and the houses and places which they frequent and usu∣ally lodge in, and take such course for the apprehending of them, and also for the prosecuting them and their Receivers, as is agreeable to Law. And they have hereby power to ap∣point such reward, not exceeding ten pounds, to such person as shall discover and apprehend any such Thief, Highway-man or Robber, to be paid unto them after the conviction of the party so discovered and apprehended, which the Sheriff for the time being shall pay, and which shall according to an Act of Parliament, entituled, An Act for the better and more effectual discovery and prosecution of Thieves & Highway-men, be allowed to him upon his account.

They are to have a strict eye upon the Conversation and carriage of all Diaffected persons within the several Counties. And they shall give the like direction to all the said Captains and Officers at their Meetings, to be watchfull and diligent in the same kind: As also that no Horse-races, Cock-fightings, Bear-baitings, Stage-plays, or any unlawfull Ass••mblies be suffered or permitted within their Counties. Forasmuch as Treason and Rebellion, is usually hatched and contrived a∣gainst the State upon such occasions, and much Evill and Wickednesse committed.

They and the aforesaid Officers, shall labor to informe themselves of all such idle and loose people that are within

their Counties, who have no visible way of Livelihood, nor calling or imployment, and shall consider by what means they may be compelled to work, or be sent out of the Common-wealth: As also how the poor and impotent of those Coun∣ties may be imployed, and better provided for, then now they are, and certifie the same to us, and the Councell, for our fur∣ther Direction thereupon. And in the mean time, shall en∣deavor as far as in them lies, that the Laws in such cases, made and provided, be put in effectuall Execution.

They shall in their constant Carriage and Conversation, encourage and promote Godlinesse and Vertue, and D••scou∣rage and Discountenance all Prophanesse and U••godlinesse; and shall endeavor with the other Justices of the Peace, and other Ministers and Officers, who are intrusted with the care of those things that the Laws against Drunkennesse, Blasphe∣ming, and taking of the Name of God in vaine, by swearing and cursing, Plays and Interludes, and prophaning the Lords day, and such like wickednesse and abominations, be put in more effectuall execution then they have been hetherto.

They shall take an exact account of what proceedings have been upon the Ordinance for Ejecting of Ignorant, Insuffici∣ent, and Scandalous Ministers and Schoolmasters, and take care that the same be effectually put in Execution for the time to come, in all the Counties aforesaid; and that from time to time, they give an accout to us and our Councell.

All those that had any way assisted the King, were Dece∣mated; that is, they were to pay the tenth part of their Estate, to the bearing of the charges of the Army; which was setled in every County throughout the Land.

A Perfect LIST of the Names of the Persons returned to serve in this Parl. 1656. For the severall Counties and Corpora∣tions within the Common-wealth of England, Scotland, and Ireland, and the Dominions there∣unto belonging.

Bedford.

• WIlliam Butler Kt.
• John Harvey
• Richard Wagstaffe
• Samuel Bedford
• Richard Edwards

Bedford Town.

• Thomas Margets

Berkes.

• William Trumball
• John Southby
• Edmond Dunche
• John Dunche
• William Hide

Abington.

• Thomas Holt

Reading.

• Sir John Barkstead
• Daniel Blagrave

Buckingham.

• Lord Whitlock
• Sir Richard Piggot
• Richard Grenvile
• Richard Ingoldsby
• Richard Hamden

Buckingham Town.

• Francis Ingoldsby

Alisbury.

• Thomas Scot

Chipping Wiccomb.

• Maj. Gen. Tobias Bridge

Cambridge & Ely.

• Sir Francis Russell Bar.
• Robert Castle
• Henry Pickering
• Robert West

Ʋniversity.

• Lord Richard Cromwell

Cambridge Town.

• Alderman Richard Tymbes

Ely.

• John Thurloc
• William Fisher

Chester.

• Sir George Booth Bar.
• Thomas Marbury
• Richard Leigh. Peter Brook

Chester City.

• Edward Bradshaw

Cornwall.

• Francis Rous
• John St. Aubin
• Anthony Rous
• Anthony Nicholl
• Richard Cartar
• Thomas C••ely
• William Braddon
• Walter Moyle

Launceston.

• Thomas Gewen

Truro.

• Walter Vincent

Penryn.

• John Fox

Eastlow & Westlow.

• John Buller

Cumberland.

• Maj. Gen. Charls Howard
• William Briscee

Carlisle.

• Scoutmaster Gen. Downing

Derby.

• John Gell
• Sir Samuel Sleight
• Thomas Saunders
• German Pole

Derby Town.

• Gervase Bennet

Devon.

• Sir John Northcot Bar.
• Sir John Young
• Robert Rolle
• Arthur Upton
• Thomas Reynell
• William Morrice
• Henry Hatsell
• Edmond Fowell
• John Hale
• John Dodderidge
• Thomas Saunders

Excester.

• Thomas Bampfield
• Thomas Westlake

Plimouth.

• John Maynard
• Timothy Alsop
• ...Darmouth, Clifton, Hardnes.
• Edward Hopkins

Totnes.

• Christopher Maynard

Burnstaple.

• Sir John Coppleston

Tiverton.

• Robert Shapcot

Honyton.

• Samuel Searle

Dorcet.

• Col. William Sydenham
• John Bingham
• Robert Coker
• John Fitz-James
• James Dewey
• John Trenchard

Dorchester.

• John Whiteway
• Weymouth & Melcomb-regis.
• Dennis Bond

Lyme-regis.

• Edmond Prideaux

Poole.

• Edward Butler

Dirham.

• Thomas Lithame
• James Clavern

Dirham City.

• Anthony Smith

Yorke. East-Riding.

• Sir William Strickland
• Hugh Bethel Junior
• Richard Darley
• Henry Darley

West-Riding.

• Lord Lambert
• Francis Thorpe

• Henry Tempest
• Henry Arthington
• Edw: Gyll. John Stanhop

North-Riding.

• George Lord Evre
• Col. Robert Lilburne
• Luke Robinson
• Francis Lassels

Yorke City.

• Lord Widdrington
• Thomas Dickenson

Kingston upon Hull.

• William Lyster
• Beverley, Francis Thorpe

Scarborough.

• Edward Salmon
• Richmond, John Bathurst

Leeds.

• Francis Alanson, Senior.
• Adam Baynes
• Hallifax. Jeremy Bently

Essex.

• Sir Thomas Honywood
• Dionysius Wakering
• Henry Mildmay
• Carew Mildmay
• Sir Rich: Everard Bar.
• Robert Barrington
• Dudley Templer
• Oliver Raymond
• Edward Turnor
• Sir Tho: Bowes
• Hezek: Hains. John Archer
• Sir Harbottle Grimstone

Colchester.

• Henry Laurence L. Presid.
• John Maidstone
• Maldon, Joachim Mathews

Gloucester.

• George Berkley
• John Howe
• John Crofts
• Baynham Throckmorton
• William Neast

Gloucester City.

• Generall John Disbrow
• Thomas Pury, younger.

Tewksbury.

• Francis White

Cirencester.

• John Stone.

Hereford.

• Maj. Gen. James Berry
• Edward Harloe
• Bennet Hoskins
• Benjamin Mason

Hereford City.

• Wroth Rogers

Leompster.

• John Birch

Hertford.

• William Earl of Salisbury
• Sir Richard Lucy Bar.
• Sir John Wittronge
• Sir John Gore
• Rowland Litton

St. Albanes.

• Albon Cox

Hertford Borough.

• Isaac Puller

Huntington.

• Gen. Edward Mountagu
• Henry Cromwell
• Nicholas Pedley

Huntington Borough.

• John Barnard

Kent.

• John Dixwell
• Wiliam James
• Henry Oxinden
• Sir Thomas Style Bar.
• John Boys
• Lambert Godfrey
• Richard Beale
• John Seyliard
• Ralph Welden
• Richard Meredith
• Daniel Shatterden

Canterbury City.

• Thomas St. Nicholas
• Vincent Denn

Rochester City.

• John Parker

Maidstone.

• John Banks

Dover.

• Maj. Gen. Kelsey

Sandwich.

• Mr Fir••erne

Quinborough.

• Gabriel Livesey

Leicester.

• Thomas Beaumont
• Francis Hacker
• William Quarles
• Thomas Pochen

Leicester Borough.

• Sir Arthur Hasterig
• William Stanely

Lincoln.

• Thomas Hall
• Thomas Lister
• Thomas Hatchet
• Edward Rossiter
• Charles Hall
• William Wolley
• Francis Fiennes
• William Savile
• William Welby
• Charles Hussey

Lincoln City.

• Original Peart
• Humphrey Walcot

Boston.

• Sir Anthony Irby
  • Grantham, William Ellis
  • Stamford, John Weaver

Great Grimsky.

• William Wray

Middlesex.

• Sir John Barkstead
• Sir William Roberts
• Challenor Chute
• William Kiffen

Westminster.

• Col. Edward Grosvener
• Edward Cary

London.

• Thomas Foot Alder:
• Sir Christopher Pack
• Thomas Adams Alder:
• Richard Brown
• Theophilus Biddolph
• John Jones

Monmouth.

• Maj. Gen. James Berry
• John Nicholas
• Edward Herbert

Norfolke.

• Charles Fleetwood
• Sir John Hobart Bar.
• Sir William Doily

• Sir Ralph Hare Barronet
• Sir Horatio Townshend
• Phillip Woodhouse
• Robert Wilton
• Robert Wood
• John Buxton
• Thomas Sotherton

Lyn-Regis.

• Gen. John Dis••row
• Maj. Gen. Skippon
• Guibon Goddard

Norwich City.

• Bernard Church
• John Hobart

Great Yarmouth.

• Charles George Cock
• William Burton

Northampton.

• Sir Gilbert Pickering Bar.
• Lord Cleypool
• Maj. Gen. William Boteler
• James Langham
• Thomas Crew
• Alexander Blake

Peterburge.

• Francis St. John

Northampton Town.

• Francis Harvey

Nottingham.

• Maj. Gen. Edw: Whalley
• Edward Clud
• Edward Nevill
• Peniston Whalley

Nottingham Town.

• Col. James Chadwick
• William Drury Alderman

Northumberland.

• William Fenwick
• Lord Widdrington
• Robert Fenwick

Newcastle upon Tine.

• Walter Strickland

Berwicke.

• Col. George Fenwick

Oxford.

• Charls Fleetwood
• William Lenthall
• Robert Jenkinson
• Miles Fleetwood
• Sir Francis Norris

Ʋniversity.

• Nathanael Finnes

Oxford City.

• Richard Croke

Woodstock.

• Maj. Gen. William Packer

Rutland.

• William Shield
• Abell Barker

Salop.

• Thomas Mackworth
• Phillip Young. Samuel More
• Andrew Lloyd

Shrewsbury.

• Col. Humphrey Mackworth
• Samuell Jones

Bridgnorth.

• Edward Waring

Ludlow.

• John Aston

Stafford.

• Sir Charls Wosley
• Thomas Crompton
• Thomas Whitgreave

Litchfield.

• Thomas Minors

Stafford Town.

• Martin Noell

Newcastle on the Line.

• John Bowyer

Somerset.

• Generall Disbrow
• John Buckland
• Alexander Popham
• Robert Long. John Gorges
• Francis Luttrell. John Ash
• John Harrington
• Lislebone Long
• William Whindham
• Francis Roll
• Taunton, Robert Blake
• Tho: Gorges
• Bath, James Ash
• Wells, John Jenkyn
• Bridgwater, Gen. Disbrow

Bristoll.

• Robert Aldworth
• John Doddrige

Southampton.

• Lord Richard Cromwell
• Maj. Gen. William Goffe
• Robert Wallop
• Richard Norton
• Thomas Cole
• John Bulkley. Richard Cob
• Edward Hooper, Elder

Winchester.

• John Hildesley

Southampton Tomn

• John Lisle Lord Com.
• Portsmouth Thomas Smith

Isle of Wight.

• William Sydenham
• Thomas Bowreman
• Andover, Thomas Hussey

Suffolk

• Sir Henry Felton
• Sir Thomas Barnidston
• Henry North
• Edmond Harvey
• Edward Wineve
• John Silkmore
• William Bloys
• William Gibbs
• Robert Brewster
• Daniel Wall

Ipswich.

• Nathanael Bacon
• Francis Bacon

Bury St. Edmonds.

• Samuel Moody
• John Clark
• Dunwich, Francis Brewster
• Sudbury, John Fothergill

Surrey.

• Sir Richard Onslow
• Arthur Onslow
• Francis Drake
• Lewis Audley
• George Duncomb
• John Blackwell, younger

Southwarke.

• Samuell Highland
• Peter De La Noy

Guilford.

• Maj. Gen. Thomas Kelsey
• Rigate, John Goodwin

Sussex.

• Herbert Morley
• Sir John Pelliam
• John Flagg
• John Stapley

• Anthony Sherly
• George Courthoppe
• Sir Thomas Rivers Bar:
• Sir Thomas Parker
• Chichester, Hen: Peckham
• Lewis, Anthony Stapely
• Rye, Mr. Hayes
• Arundel, Sir John Trevor

Warwick.

• Richard Lucy
• Sir Roger Burgoyne
• Edward Peyto
• Joseph Hawksworth

Coventry City.

• William Purefoy
• Robert Beake

Warwick Borough.

• Clement Throckmorton, jun.

Worcester.

• Maj. Gen. James Berry
• Sir Thomas Rous Bar.
• Edward Pitt
• Nicholas Lechmore
• John Nanfan

Worcester City.

• Edmond Giles
• William Collins

Wilts.

• Sir Anthony Ashly-Cooper
• Sir Walter St. John Bar.
• Alexander Popham
• Thomas Grove
• Alexander Thistlewaite
• John Bulkley
• Richard Grubam-how
• William Ludlow
• Henry Hungerford
• Gabriel Martyn

New Sarum.

• William Stone
• James H••ely

Marlebrough.

• Charls Fleetwood L: Gen:
• Devises, Edward Scotton

Lancashire.

• Sir Richard Houghton
• Col. Standish
• Col. Holland

Westmerland.

• Christopher Lister
• Thomas Burton.

WALES.

• George Twisleton
• Oriffith Bedwrda
• Col. Phillip Jones
• Evan Lewis
• Col. John Clark
• James Phillips
• Lord Cleypool
• Maj. Gen Rowland Dakins
• John Gly••
• Robert Williams
• Col. John Jones
• Col. John Cartar
• John Trevor
• Edmond Thomas
• John Price
• Hugh Price
• Charls Lloyd
• John Upton
• George Gwyn
• Henry Williams.

SCOTLAND.

• Col. Mitchell
• Col. David Barclay
• Col. Winthrope
• Sir John Weyms L: of Boghe
• Sir Edward Rhodes
• Godfrey Rhodes
• Col. Talbot.
• John Lockhart
• Lord Cocktum
• Mr Disbrowe
• Judge Swyntoun
• Mr. Kerr
• Judge Advocate Whalley
• Judge Smith
• Col. Salmon
• Sir James Mac-dowell
• The Earle of Tweeddale
• Robbert Woossey
• Sir Alexander Wedderburn
• Col. Henry Markham
• Col. Whetham
• Lord President Broghill
• Lord Provost Ramsey
• Commissary, Lockhart
• Scoutmaster gen•• Downing
• Alexander Dowglas.

IRELAND.

• Lord Broghill
• Maj. Gen. Jephson
• Vincent Gookin
• Sir John Reynolds
• Col. Abbot
• Mr. Halsey
• Col. Sadler
• Maj. Redman
• Maj. Owen
• Sir Theophilus Jones
• Sir Hardresse Waller
• Maj. Morgan
• Mr. Bisse
• Mr. Tigh
• Col. Fowke
• Maj. Aston
• Mr. Blagny
• Lieut. Col. Newborough
• Lieut. Col. Berisford
• Ralph King
• Col. Cooper
• Lieut. Col. Tragle
• Col. Ingoldsby
• Walter Waller
• Sir Robert King
• Col. Bridges
• John Davis
• Maj. Potter
• Maj. Ratlife
• Col. Suttleworth.

FINIS.