l. per annum formerly voted to be conferred on his Excellency and his Heynes for ever might be presently setled possessed and enjoyed by him They likewise ordered That a Letter should be written to his Excellency to returne the thanks of both Houses of Parliament for his noble valour and unwearied paines in the service of the State and particularly in the storming of Dartmouth and to informe him what a great mercy the Parliament esteems this businesse of Dartmouth and how highly they respect and esteem of his Excellency and his designes and undertakings And here now I shall desire the Reader for Gods greater glory and high honour to consider seriously and most graciously and gratefully how admirable wisely powerfully and advantagiously for us the Lord carried on all these late great works in these few ensuing observations worthy our cordiall consideration As first That God all along cast such a pannick feare upon our Enemies such a Magor-Misabib into their hearts and spirits that they were a continuall terrour to themselves and that since our taking of Boviâ—-Tracy God hath given into our hands neer 1000 of the Enemies Horse and that upon the advance of a party of ours from Crediâ—â—on the Enemies fled and onely â—ix of Colonell Okeyes Dragoones put 500 of their Horse from their post at which time they fled from Plymouth leaving their Guns Arms and Ammunition behind them Secondly That Captaine Batten Vice-Admirall of the Parliaments Ships coming to block up Dartmouth by Sea as our noble Generall Sir Thomas Fairfax had ordered him liâ— upon a Ship of the Enemies bound for France wherein were many Gentlemen of quality and money and jewels to a good quantity together with many other rich 〈…〉 Thirdly which is indeed very remarkable That till our Forces came before Dartmouth in at least seven weeks space there had been little or no 〈◊〉 upon that 〈◊〉 but now our Army being there ther was such a mighty shole of Muâ—â—its taken as comfortably fed our Army and which so continued among them to the great admiration of all the Inhabitants Fourthly That in the storming of the Towne though all things answered not the appointments of the Councell of War yet there was no confusion or miscarriage in the whole worke and withall that we had very faire weather all the time of the siege and storme even to a minute till the Town was taken and then only it rained much Fifthly That notwithstanding the great strength of the Fortifications of the Town and in men and Ordnance also yet it was taken without much bloodshed we having lost but two men in all the whole worke that we could possibly heare of which was even a miraculous mercy to us considering I say that there were 〈◊〉 strong Works and Forts in it and about 100 Peeces ready mounted and manned which might have been thought sufficient to have maintained the Town and Harbour against a very potent Army Sixthly and lastly That Master Peters one of the Ministers of the Army at this time presented to the Parliament divers Colours taken in the Towne and Country and among the rest the Kings owne first Colours which he first advanced at Yorke against the Parliament with the Kings owne picture on it and a Sword in 〈◊〉 hand and a booke in the other together with a bundle of brave Letters found in the Governours House in Dartmouth some of the Princes some of Ruperts some of Gorings some of Culpeppers and their Commissions by Sea and Land besides a Popish Masse-Book and an Altar taken from the Engineer of Dartmouth who was a Dutch Masse Priest For all which so rare and remarkable free favours and mighty meer mercies so graciously conferred upon us our most renowned Parliamentary Worthies most rightly and religiously ordered a solemn day of Thanksgiving to be kept a Copy of which their Order I have here thought fit to insert which was as followeth Die Jovis Jan. 26. 1645. THe Lords and Commons in Parliament assembled do order and appoint this day fortnight being Thursday for a day of Thanksgiving for the taking in of Dartmouth and Hereford to be kept within the Cities of London and Westminster the Lines of Communication and ten miles about And this day three weeks for all other places over the Kingdome in the Parliaments power About the 26 of this instant January we received also certaine intelligence by Letters out of Stafford-shire that Captaine Stone that valiant and active Commander had sent out a party of about 100 and odde Horse to beate up the Lord Molinaux his Quarters who fell upon the Enemy at a place called Cark within seven miles of Stafford and managed their charge with such martiall resolution and dexterity that they routed 300 of the Enemies and tooke prisoners three Captaines two Cornets eight Reformadoes ten inferiour Officers about 100 Horse and divers prisoners above 100 Pistols In which conflict many of the Enemies were wounded and some slaine And thus they returned victoriously to Stafford againe with their Prisoners and Prizes And about the 28 of this instant we were certainly informed from our Army in the West that Pouldram Castle which was Sir William Courteens House a strong Garrison of the Enemies neer Exeter was surrendred to brave Colonell Hamond who commanded in chiefe upon these Conditions The Officers and Souldiers to depart to their own dwellings leaving all their Arms behind them There were about 120 in the Castle 4 Peeces of Ordnance unmounted 5 Barrels of powder with Bullet and Match proportionable but little other Provisions His Excellencies most courteous carriage and mercifull useage of those at Dartmouth notwithstanding that he wonne it by storme had a great influence and operation upon the spirits of the Enemies elsewhere and was not only a prevalent motive to these of Pouldram Castle to yeeld so soone unto his famoused mercy but made many others also shortly after to desert the Enemy for there being at least 120 Cornish men prisoners in Dartmouth notwithstanding their former even most barbarous cruelty to ours yet I say renowned and mercifull Sir Thomas Fairfax as I was credibly informed set them all at liberty and gave them two shillings a man to beare their charges And was not here a heaping of Coales of fire on their heads as our Saviour commands and commends in his Disciples and a rare way of winning of hearts even of those formerly heathenish cruell Cornish Enemies Those of them that would stay and take up Armes for the Parliament as divers did he gave them â—â—ree shillings a peece to all the Seamen in prison he freely gave their liberty and to all their Common Souldiers unwilling to take up Armes he gave Passes to go to their owne habitations nay to severall Officers of whom any of the faire conditioned Townesmen could give any good Character he also gave Passes to go to their owne homes also on promise of future faire and peaceable demeanour toward the
taken slaine and totally routed his horse many taken and dispersed and the rest gone in great disorder toward Cornwall where shortly I hope we shall meet with the remnant left of that crew and put an end to the Field Enemy in the West of England They confest they had 8 Regiments of Horse consisting of 2500 men some other of their Officers that are prisoners say 3000. Indeed they are very resolute men sought valiantly and after they were chased from hedge to hedge defended their Barracadoes and Works at push of Pike and with the butt end of their Muskets till our Foot got over a hedge and flankd them so that they were forced to quit it They were old Cornish Foot and all Greenâ—iles and Gorings old Souldiers both English and Irish who were ingaged in this service but now are scattered We have abundance of men wounded both Officers and Souldiers more than have been at any storme since the Army came forth for indeed every hedge was as it were a Bulwark to the Enemy so strong are their hedges in those parts but few of ours killed many of the Enemies both Horse and Foot Let the glory of the victory be all given to God Our first Word in this fight was Emanuell God with us and a Farre Push in our hats Their Word was We are with you and a handkercheif tyed about their right Armes but by taking some of ours prisoners the Enemy had gained the Word and Signâ—â— and therefore we changed our Word which was Truth and a handkercheif or white marke in our hats A true List of the Prisoners and of the number slaine and wounded on both sides in this fierce fight and brave victory at Torrington PRisoners taken of the Enemies 600. among whom were many of quality even 80 of the Princes Life-Guard 30 of Hoptons Life-Guard one Lieutenant Colonell 9 or 10 Captaines 6 Lieutenants one Cornet 3 Ensignes together with other Officers 200 Horse 3000 Armes Hopton himself shot in the thigh neer the belly one Letter said shot dangerously in the belly Sir John Digby wounded in the head and some others of note sorely wounded and Major Threave and Captaine Frie and other Officers slaine Of the Enemies slaine in the City by firing the Magazine 200. full 80 barrels of powder blown up in the Church which as was most credibly and for certaine informed was done on purpose by Hoptons instigation who gave 20 l. to one of their owne party to fire the same a most cruell act 20 of ours slaine in the fight and by blowing up the Magazine and no more and about 100 wounded The Lord Hoptons Commission to be Generall under the Prince Sir John Digbies Commission to be Governour of the Forces before Plymouth and other Papers of consequence taken Of the Lord Hoptons about 400 or 500 li. in money left behind at his Quarters with much plunder left in Portmantles and in other places behind them All the Enemies bagge and baggage taken and great store of provisions taken in the Town the Enemy totally routed and fled in great disorder into Cornwall and ours still in the pursuit of them The two Messengers that brought the Letters intimating this great victory were called into the House of Commons and had 40 l. given them as a gratuity for their pains in the journey And the Messenger that brought this foresaid List and other Letters in confirmation of this great victory had 20 l. given to him also And upon the 23 of this instant Febr. the House of Commons ordered that Thursday come fortnight being the 11 of March a day of solemne Thanksgiving should be kept in London and Westminster and within ten miles about for this great mercy and brave victorie at Torrington And for the Countrie it was ordered that in respect Thursday 7. night was by a former order appointed a day of Thankesgiving for the surrender of Chester in the severall Counties under the Parliaments power that on the same day hearty thankes should likewise be rendred by the Ministers of the severall Counties for this other great mercy at Torrington Upon the 24. instant the House of Parliament taking occasion by an ordinance for the discharging of the Ward-ship of the Heyres-male of Sir Christopher Wray late a most worthie Member of the House of Commons They fell upon a serious debate touching the Legality or Illegality of Wardships in generall and after some time spent therein they ordered that the Court of Wardships it selfe and all Wardships Austres les Mains Primer Seisins and all other charges incident to the said Office should be from that present day taken away And all Tenures of homage and all fines licences pardons of Alienation c. should be likewise taken away This Vote being presently sent up to the Lords House for their Concurrence their Lordships concurred accordingly therein And for the better satisfaction of the Reader I have thought fit to set downe the Copy of the order or Vote it selfe verbatim which was as followeth IT is this day Ordered by the Lords and Commons Assembled in Parliament that the Court of Wards and Liveries and all Wardship Lilerie Primer Seisins and Austres les Maines and all other charges insident or rising for or by reason of Wardship Livery Primer Seisin or Austres les Maines be from this day taken away and that all Tenures by Homage and all Fynes Lycences Seisures and Pardons for alienation and all other charges insident thereunto he likewise taken away and that all Tenures by Knights service either of his Majesty or others or by Knights service or Soccage in Capite of his Majesty be turned into free and Common Soccage This act of grace and happines to the Kingdome I conceive not to be inferiour to any of the former Acts or Votes passed by the Parliament and must needs be extraordinary acceptable especially to the Gentrie of England who by meanes of that Court were kept under in a mighty deale of homage and vassalrie in their Children and estates and they therefore now so much the more bound to doe God the more good spirituall service by how much he hath thus set them and theirs at such an enlarged libertie and freedome from this temporall service About the 26. of this instant Februarie we had certaine and full confirmation by Letters both from active and courageous Colonell Birch of the famous victorie obtained over the Enemie at Cardiffe by the Parliaments forces under the Command of valiant and faithfull Major Generall Laughorn Sir Trevor Williams and Colonell Morgan the substance whereof was as followeth Ragland-Castle in Wales having long time beene fortified by the Earle of Worcester a Papist did of late much increase in strength and committed many cruelties upon the Countie of Monmouth plundring firing and destroying Townes and Houses having the whole Countrie under their power except some few Garrisons of the Parliaments no way able to resist them Now at
April being the solemne Fast-day of this Moneth after both the Sermons before the Lords in the Abby at Westminster and the Commons Sermons in Margrets-Church were ended The House of Commons sitting a while in Parliament received certaine intelligence of the Kings escaping out of Oxford in a disguised manner betweene Sunday-night and Munday-morning with 2. others in his Companie whereof Master Aâ—bhurnhâ—un was one who was pretended to be the Kings Master and the King and the other partie must be Ashburnhams Servants and the King himselfe as it was credibly and Constantly related must goe along under the name of Harry Master Ashburnhams man and thus I say these 3. went forth of Oxford together the King also carrying a cloak-bag or portmantle behind him on his horse like a Servingman indeede but whether or which way he went was not then knowne for as it was reported the better to conceale the way of his departure there went out 3. at every part of the City at the same instant time that so none should be able to discover in which of the Companies the King was It seemed as since we heard his Lords in Oxford were desirous of his departure hoping thereby to have the beter conditions for themselves looking more it seem'd at their owne safetie than at the Kings preservation who hereby may plainly see whose interests they have all this while driven on Ah good Reader see here and seriously consider in thy soul with feare and trembling and amazement how truely how justly God most wise most righteous hath made good that word of his Those that honour me I will honour and they that despise me shall be lightly esteemed O that we would faithfully and fruitfully lay these remarkable examples thereof to our hearts and walke answerably for the time to come Now upon the 4 of May 1646. so soone as ever our most noble Generall had received certaine intelligence of his Majesties departure ouâ— of Oxford as abovesaid he immediately by his Letters and Messengers informed the Parliament thereof giving them farther to understand the great confidence though mightily mistaken as aâ—on you shall plainly understand of those that came out of Oxford to his Excellency and their constant affirmations as those that saw but the shallow superficies of the businesse only that the King was certainly come into or neer unto London upon which information the Commons in Parliament had much debate and the House of Peers also the like and considering the danger that might ensue by concealing and hiding the Kings person they appointed a Committee forthwith to prepare and draw up something to be published touching all such as should harbour or conceale the harbouring of the King and accordingly an Order was drawn up by this Committee reported to the House and assented unto by the House of Peers and likewise passed by them and â—y Order of both Houses to be published throughout London and Westminster by beat of Drum or sound of Trumpet which was accordingly performed the said Order being to this effect ORdered that it be declared and it is hereby declared by the Lords and Commons in Parliament assembled That what person soever shall harbour or conceale or know of the harbouring or concealing of the Kings person and shall not reveale it immediately to the Speakers of both Houses shall be proceeded against as a Traytor to the Common Wealth forfeit his whole Estate and die without mercy The Parliament also about this foresaid time seriously considering that a former Ordinance for putting out of the Lines of Communication all Papists Officers and Souldiers of fortune that have come out of the Kings Quarters was now expired and the danger that might happen by permitting such to abide within the City of London no whit slacking but rather increasing An Ordinance was therefore read the first and second time and committed to a Committee for the continuance of the said former Ordinance for a Moneth longer and that all such Papists and Souldiers should remove themselves â—wenty miles distant from the City An Ordinance was likewise read and assented to giving power to the Militia of London to search within twenty miles of London for all Papists Malignants and other suspected persons and to secure and disarm them and likewise to search for Arms and this power to continue for twenty daies longer And now upon the sixth of this instant May the much expected newes of the Kings discovery and place of aboad was by a most excellent Letter sent to the Commissioners of both Kingdomes and so to the Parliament brought to London which Letter for the eminency and excellency thereof and for the just honour of our ever most worthily deserving loyall and loving Brethren of Scotland I have here thought fit in the first place to set forth and shew to the honest and godly Reader for his just joy comfort and content which was as followeth The Letter from the Commissioners of the Parliament of Scotland to the Commissioners of both Houses concerning his Majesties coming to the Scottish Army Dated at Southwell May the 5. Right Honourable THe discharging of our selves of the duty we owe to the Kingdome of England to you as Commissioners from the same moves us to acquaint you with the Kings coming into our Army this morning which having overtaken us unexpectedly hath filled us with amazement and made us like men that dream We cannot thinke that He could have been so unadvised in his Resolutions is to have cast himself upon us without a reall intention to give full satisfaction to both Kingdomes in all their just and reasonable Demands in all those things that concern Religion and Righteousnesse whatsoever be His disposition or resolution you may be assured That we shall never entertaine any thought nor correspond with any purpose nor countenance mee any endeavours that may in any circumstance incroach upon our League and Covenant or weaken the union or confidence between the Nations That Vnion unto our Kingdom was the matter of many prayers and as nothing was more joyfull to us than to have it set on foot so hitherto have we thought nothing too dear to maintain it and we trust to walk with such faithfulnesse and truth in this particular that as we have the testimony of a good conscience within our selves so you and all the world shall see that we minde your interest with as much integrity and care as our owne being confident you will entertaine no other thoughts of us Signed by the Warrant and Command of the Commissioners of the Parliament of Scotland LOTHIAN Southwel May 5. 1646. For the Right Honourable the Commissioners of the Parliament of England In the next place I shall give the Reader a summary narrative of the manner of the discovery of His Majesty to most noble and renowned Generall Lesley Earl of Leven as it was related to the Commissioners of Scotland by the Secretary of the Scots Army and
Peeces Divers Drakes and small Peeces 4000 Armes gathered divers Armes not taken in 40 Barrels of Gunpowder Many thousand weight of Bullets and Lead Match and other Ammunition proportionable and plentifull Little fresh meat onely Poultry and that very scarce Salt meat some plenty but much of it tainted and not fit to be eaten Butter and Cheese some store Beere and Wine many Barrels Corne good store Fewell for fire very little A List of the Lords Knights Colonels and chief of the Gentry that marched out of Newark to their own homes to submit to the Ordinances of Parliament Lords LOrd Bellasis Governour Lord Davencourt Lord Laxington Knights Sir John Burrell Sir Guy Palmes Sir Charles Dalison Sir Robert Dalison Sir Robert Tredway Sir George Hennings Sir Jarvis Skroop Sir Philip Constable Sir Thomas Ingram Sir Bryan Balmes Sir Jarvis Nevill Sir Simon Fanshaw And others Great Clergy-men DOctor Farmer Chancellor of Lincoln Doctor March Dean of Yroke Doctor Hurst and others Chiefe Officers MAjor Generall Eyre Colonell Gilby Colonell Trollop Colonell Herne Colonell Darsey Colonell Atkins And others The most malignant Aldermen of the Towne were The Major of Newark Alderman Atkinson Alderman Standish And others And upon the same ninth of May aforesaid being Saturday we received the certaine intelligence of the surrendering of the Castle of Banbury such another most pestilent pernicious and vexatious den of Theeves and Royall Robbers as was Bazing House in Hampshire and especially most vexatious and pernicious to the Inhabitants of Northamptonshire its next neighbour but now at last I say by Gods great mercy and the valour and vertue of our brave Commanders and Souldiers brought upon its knees of submission being given up to that brave and couragious Commander Colonell Whaley by Sir William Compton then Governovr thereof upon faire and honourable Articles of agreement which was done on Friday May the 8. the substance of those articles also being to this effect That all the Officers were to march away with Horses and Swords but the Common Souldiers without Armes their wearing apparell and half their moneys by just accompt and both Officers and Souldiers to have Passes to any place in England or Wales not beleaguered the City of London excepted and those that desire it Passes to go beyond Sea and that upon these Conditions the Castle of Banbury to be delivered up as aforesaid to Colonell Whaley with all the Ordnance Armes Ammunition and Colours without imbezlement for the use of the Parliament which was accordingly performed on the said Friday in the forenoone And now the Houses taking into their just and serious consideration the great and many mercies of God to us in our Forces and by them also to the whole Kingdome both in thus surrendring Newark and Banbury now in our power and possession and that Tuesday May the 12 having been formerly appointed a day of solemn thankesgiving to Almighty God throughout London and Westminster and 20. miles adjacent round about it for the happie surrender of Exeter and other great mercies not long before conferr'd upon us together with this none of the least of now at last the Lords giving our King into the hands and harbour and custodie of our most Loyall and loving Brethren of Scotland It was therefore Ordered that on this said day of Solemn thanksgiving the severall Churches and Chappell 's in the City of London and Westminster and 20. miles about it should likewise give most heartie thankes to the Lord our God for all these subsequent and additionall rich and rare mercies and that Tewsday seven night following being May 19. should be kept as a Solemn day of Thankesgiving by all the Ministers in the Country over the whole Kingdome and Dominion of Wales within the power of Parliament About the 16. of this instant May came Letters from valiant and active Colonell Morgan giving us certaine intelligence of the taking of Hartlebury-castle lying between Dudley and Worcester and was the Bishop of Worcesters seat a hopefull omen for the taking of Worcester it selfe also indue time Which Castle being now surrendred to brave Colonell Morgan the Officers marched forth with Horse and Armes Troopers and Common Souldiers with out Armes and all the rest of the Articles being according to agreement fairely performed on both sides the brave Colonell tooke possession of the Castle wherein also were taken 6. peices of Ordnance 200. Armes 15. barrells of powder match and bullet proportionable and a full proportion of all manner of prosions for 200. men for 6. moneths at least And about the 20. instant we received certaine information by Letters from valiant and active Colonell Birch also of the agreement for the surrender of that strong Castle and Garrison of Ludlow which was delivered on the like conditions to those of Hartleburie And here I must acquaint the Reader that the Lord having by his most wise and admirable providence in some hopefull measure given a blessed returne to all the prayers of Gods faithfull ones over the whole kingdome in bringing in the Person of the King unto us and committing him unto the care and custodie of our Loyall and loving Brethren of Scotland some sweets of this remarkable overture of these things began now to break forth to the comfort of our hearts for the present and hopefull perswasion if not assurance of more good to follow in the Lords good time as was now manifested both by a Letter sent by his Majestie to the Lords and Commons in the Parliament of England at Westminster Assembled which his Majestie desired might be Communicated with Both Houses which accordingly was done at a conference where and when the said Letter was reade and another letter to the Commissionres of the Parliament of Scotland And those being passages of speciall Eminencie and wherein the whole Kingdome may no doubt desire to be in some measure at least satisfied I shall therefore for the Readers content herein be somewhat more larger than Ordinarie though there by I increase both mine owne paines and charges at the presse in giving the Reader the substance of some of them which was as followeth That his Majestie is not come into the Scots Army out of any intent to divide the Kingdomes in affection or prolong the War but that he might secure his person and labour the composing the difference between him and his Kingdoms and settle all well and in regard Religion is the chiefe point he desires that may be first insisted upon and settled according to the advise of the Assembly of Divines of both Kingdoms assembled at Westminster And for the Militia he is willing to concur with that propounded at Vxbridge that it be in such hands as shall be agreed for 7. yeeres And for Ireland he will doe what he can to satisfie desires of that kind And for the disbanding of his Armies and sleighting Garrisons and so avoyding the effusion of more bloud he is willing likewise to
and treacherously too as many feared entrapped and cooped up but thus as you have heard most admirably delivered and preserved from utter ruine and destruction as was threatned and resolved which therefore is with extraordinary thankfulnesse to God to bee beheld and lookt upon and most justly to bee enrolled in the number of our singular great mercies and deliverances of the Lord wrought for us as whereby notwithstanding the unhappy losse of so brave an Artillery and Armes of our Souldiers yet a wide doore was thus left open unto us in good measure to râ—crute our Army again considering that there is no competition or comparison to bee made between the raising of men and getting of Armes the former being known by experience to bee very difficult the other very easie to performe And which is also herein very considerable the mercy was so much the greater and the losse the lesse in regard that his Excellency had taken farre more Ordnances and Armes from the Enemy but a little before in this his Western Expedition than were now lost in this last disaster Now as touching the matter and cause of this great miscarriage though I doe not I dare not take upon mee to discusse it it having been I hope throughly examined by others to whom it more properly appertained yet give mee leave good Reader to suspect still that it was a plain peice of treachery to the State Parliament honest honorable Major Gen Skippon perceived it at last as it was reported though too late most evidently and therefore as it was credibly enformed smiting himself upon his brest hee said Wee are betraied wee are betraied But who the persons were was not then so clear yet some were known and one of them ran to the King to secure himself and Colonell Butler was sent up to London by his Excellency and committed to the Tower of London till hee was examined about it And it is the more easily to bee beleeved to have been a meer peice of trechery against the noble Lord Generall as being a thing plotted and contrived before hee went into the West and that upon this ground namely That divers of the most knowing and active Royalists then among us at London were heard with much confidence to say before his Excellency went forth in this Expedition that the Lord Generall would receive a blow in the West In particular a Gentleman then a prisoner in Warwick-castle by name Mr. E. Andrewes the Son of Sir Eusebie Andrewes who being among divers Gentlemen at a Tavern in Warwick said before them all with imperious speeches that hee would bee hanged if the Earl of Essex came safe back again out of the West And told them withall that they should see the Kings Army flourish with other words to this effect as I had it by credible information And this was presently after the Lord Generall was gone into the West when hee had a most gallant and stout Army indeed and such an one as the Kings Army durst not look in the face nor was it probable durst come so neer it as to behold their back-parts For his Excellencies Army was then known to be a terrour to the Enemy for some of the cheif of the Kings Army at the end of Newberry-battail when they were carrying the body of the Earl of Caâ—narvan into the Town said Damn mee Essex will never bee beaten and with fearfull oaths were heard to swear All the devils in hell could not beat him But now to proceed About the 4 of this instant September came certain information by Letters from Osâ—estry to London that Sir Thomas Middletons Ammunition was safely arrived from Wem to Oswestry to the great sorrow of the Enemy who some few dayes before as was certified by Letters from Wem issued out of Salop to Whittington with at least 1200 foot and 400 horse to have intercepted it But renowned Sir Thomas Middleton having intelligence thereof sent out a party from Oswestâ—â—y to guard the Ammunition which party discovering the Enemy wheeled into the Rear all the Horse being with the Ammunition in the Van and so fell upon them killed five upon the place took five prisoners wounded many and made the Enemy fly but being to guard the Ammunition they durst not leave their charge to follow them so the Enemy wheeled back again from Franck ford-Hope neer Elsmore and so to Salop and out Ammunition of exceeding great concernment for the succeeding Welch affaires was as I said safely thus conveyed into Oswestry ready there for the following work in Wales where of more in its due place About the 8 of this instant also came certain intelligence by Letters out of Staffordshire of a brave exploit performed by that most valiant and brave Commander Colonell Rudgely in a most notable defeat which hee gave unto the Enemy the substance wherof wee received from Letters thence to this effâ—ct Wee marched out of Stafford to Lynsell and thence took from under the Walls at least an 104 Oxen and Cowes and about 300 Horse Then wee marched to Litchfield whence wee brought away above an 160 Oxen and Cowes and 60 Horse and presently after newes being brought us that the Enemy was plundering at Chartley his Excellencies the Lord Generals own Lands with an intent to drive away his Cattell whereupon our valiant Colonell Colâ— Rudgelâ—y drew forth all those horses hee had and about an 180 foot and marched thither but they having broke open the stable door and taken a choice Colt of my Lord Generals which Colt was shot and killed by one of his Servants out of the house as they led him away they were gone thence before wee could get thither and got into Penâ—h-Park to drive that whereupon wee marched to Vssiter and at Lacksley wee heard that the Enemy was marched toward Bromble so with those few horse which wee had wee marched in haste after them if possible to ingage them till our foot came up unto us and neer unto Bagots-Bromâ—ey after 10 miles hard march wee fell upon their Reare and upon the first charge took about 40 horse and as many men and Armes and pursued them to their main-body which consisted of at least 500 good horse but our horse not being above an 100. wee were forced to retreat a little way but presently rallyed again which whilst wee were doing the Enemy planted an ambuscado which upon our second charge fired upon us but wee bravely beat the ambuscado up and killed and took every man of those so planted and all their armes and Horses and kept the rest in play till our foot came up and then they fell off from us and wee kept the field On our part wee had only one man slain and they took six prisoners but from them wee took a Serjeant Major one Captain one Leivtenant two Quarter masterâ— three Corporals and the rest Common Souldiers in all 18. and killed about 30. took many Armes and
it was credibly reported by good testimony that at the instant of his Majesties flight from Newberry hee complained of the Major Townesmen and Inhabitants of Newberry saying that they were most pestilent Roundheads and that they were not so loyall as his subjects of Cornwall who used to give him intelligence upon all occasions There were also taken at least 2000 Armes at this fight and the Kings and Generall Forths Coaches and divers sumpture-horses laden with rich prize and upon the consideration of this great and good successe of this our Army at Newberry and the other of our brethren of Scotland at Newcastle An Order was agreed on by both the Houses of Parliament that publick Thanks should bee given to God in all Churches in London and Westminster on Tuesday then ensuing which was the 5 of November being the day of solemn annuall thanksgiving for Englands deliverance from the most horrid and exorbitant Popish Gun-powder-Treason which sacrifice of Thanksgiving for these 2 foresaid Victories was on the said day accordingly performed But Oh our unhappinesse that ever it should bee justly said of us as it was of Hanniball that great Carthaginian Conquerour and scourge of the Romans Vincerescis Hannibal Vtivictoriâ nescis O that wee should not onely not prosper in this Victory according to the admirable advantage which God had put into our hands but that wee should suffer the Enemy to rally and recrute their Forceâ— and as it most unhappily fell out Quo fato aut qâ—â fraude nescio at Dunnington-castle shortly after where they greatly and most grossely recovered much of their losses and our then famous and formidable Army was to our shame and sorrow bee it spoken most strangely baffled and abused even to their faces wee standing still and looking on But enough and too much of this and now to proceed About the 28 of this instant also came certain intelligence by Letters from Newcastle to the Committee of both Kingdomes that the Castle within the Town of Newcastle was for certain taken by our noble brethren of Scotland and that all within the Castle who had flâ—d in thither at the taking of the Town surrendred both the Castle and themselves to the mercy of those our very mercifull brethren of Scotland wherein were taken severall prisoners of quality and who they intended should all have legall tryall both English and Scottish but their own Native Scots they speedily sent away into Scotland and the English to bee adjudged by the known Laws of England they sent to London The names of the most eminent men taken then in the Castle were these Sir John Marley the atheisticall Major and Governour of the Town a most pestilent and desperate malignant and enemy to all goodnesse the Lord â—raford the Lord Maxwell the Lord Ree 3 Lords of Scotland and all 3 most desperate incendiaries together with divers others prime Commanders and Officers in armes Much also about the same time wee were most certainly informed by severall Letters out of Lincolnshire that his Majesty had sent directions to all the Commanders of his Garrisons at Newark Belviâ—-castle and others thereabout with speciall command speedily to joyn into a considerable body and to march for the releif of Crowland and then to fall into the Associated Counties which accordingly and instantly they put in practise and for which purpose they met together in a great body and came into the Vale of Bever from whence they intended to march speedily toward Crowland But loyall active and valiant Sir John Gells and Sir Thomas Fairfaxes forces being timely informed thereof appointed also speedily to meet together and to fall upon the Enemy in the said Vâ—le of Bever which accordingly they performed with singular good speed and good successe and bravely surprized the greatest part of them took Major Pudsey and 2 Colonells about 800 horse and 400 prisoners and by this means most happily frustrated both the certain releiving of Crowland and especially prevented that most desperate and dangerous designe as it might unquestionably have proved of breaking in like a furious overflowing flood into the Associated Counties a mercy most worthy our extraordinary thankfulnesse to the Lord our God the most gracious and vigilant Watchman of the English Israel And about the 30 of this instant October wee were credibly assured by Letters from Wareham in the West that that most valiant and faithfull Commander Colonell Sydenham had fallen upon Sir Lewes Dives Forces at Crew in Dorsetshire and had a brave bickering with them where hee wounded his Leivtenant Colonell took an 100 horse 40 prisoners above a 100 Armes and routed and put to flight 400 horse and foot And the same Letters also farther certified that Sir Anthony Ashley-Cooper with 1500 horse and foot from severall Garrisons thereabout in Dorsetshire had then taken the field to encounter with Sir Lewis Dives who was endevouring to fortifie some places in those parts whereof more in its due and proper place The good news from our Armies rested not heer for about the 30 also of this instant came certain intelligence to the Parliament signifying under the hand of that pious prudent and victorious Commander Sir William Brereton that Leverpool in Lancashire was delivered up to brave and ever to bee honoured Sir John Meldrum The English Souldiers therein some 2 or 3 dayes before having combined together came away out of the Town and drove away with them the Cattle that was thereabout and the Irish seeing themselves left only with some few English Commanders they also being in great straits and knowing no quarter would bee given them if they stood it out they therefore also voluntarily came forth of the Town and cast themselves at Sir John Mâ—â—drums feet and had their lives granted them thereupon before the Ordinance of Parliament against the Irish came to his hands or knowledge And heerupon the Commanders also were enforced instantly to surrender the Town wherein were taken prisoners Sir Robert Byron Governour Colonell Cuthert Clifton Robert Bambridge Major Hugh Anderson Leivtenant Colonell 14 Captains â—nd many other Officers in Armes Most of the choice Goods which were in the Town they had shipped in small Barks and Boats thinking to have stoln away in the night time by our Ships to Beu-Morrice but some of the well-affected in the Town having given timely notice thereof our ships manned out long boats and took all their said Goods from them to a very considerable valew Nay yet Gods goodnesse to the Parliament and his extraordinary blessing on their forces rested not heer for much about the foresaid time wee were certainly informed by Letters from Newcastle to the Committee of both Kingdomes that noble and renowned Generall Leven carryed on businesses so prudently in the capitulation between his Excellency and the Governour of Tinmouth-castle that the said Castle was Octob. 27. 1644. surrendred to his Excellency and that therein hee found
and brave Commander Colonell Ridgeley a principall and prudent Commander in the Earle of Denbighs Army about Staffordshire who about the beginning of this Moneth of November understanding that the Enemy in those parts began to stirre apace and to molest the peace and people of the Country thereabout and especially that the Enemy from Tongue-castle and Linshall Garrison were got about Eccleshall and had there gotten and taken away all the Cattle and horse that they could light upon in those parts to the number of about 200 at least Hee therefore I say sent out Captain Stones a brave Officer in Armes of his Regiment who with a considerable party being upon their March by his Scouts discovering which way the said Enemy moved hasted after them and having overtaken them hee most valiantly advanced up unto them and with his men fell most courageously upon them and presently put them to the rout took 27 of them prisoners slew 2 or 3 of them on the place and wounded many among which prisoners hee took Sergeant Major Fleetwood Sir Richard Fleetwoods Son and one Almand a most desperate and active Cavalier who had done much mischeif in those parts who also was sorely wounded and rescued all the 200 horse and Cattle from them and restored them to their right Owners at their return home And about the same time Captain Wagstaffe and Captain Wakefield with part of Colonell Chadwicks and Colonell Leighs Troops went forth together in their assignations about Hampton and in their March hearing that some of the Enemies were quartered thereabout they marched up unto them fell upon them in their quarters took about 13 or 14 of them prisoners and brought away above 20 good horse to Stafford with them And although I breifly mentioned a mixture of Thanksgiving together with our last day of the monethly Humiliation in the conclusion of the moneth of October last for the late many and great Victories given by our good God to the Parliaments forces yet now give mee leave good Reader heer to acquaint thee that our ever to bee honoured and most pious Worthies in Parliament Ordered by speciall appointment that the 5 of this instant November which was the former anniversary-day of publick Thanksgiving for our most happy deliverance from the Popish Gunpowder-plot should also bee a particular day of solemn Thanksgiving to the Lord and was accordingly performed for our most memorable Victory at Newberry for the taking in of the Town of Newcastle and the Castle therein also together with the taking of Tinmouth castle the yeelding up of Leverpool to Sir John Meldrum and the brave defeat given to our Cavalierian adversaries in Lincolnshire Which said day of Thanksgiving for all these rare and famous Victories was very solemnly kept thorow-out the Cities of London and Westminster with Sermons in all Churches both forenoon and afternoon with ringing of Bells shooting off Ordnance at all the Forts round about the City and making many and mighty bonfires at night And to adde to all this dayes triumph as the Lord Major accompanyed with the Aldermen and Sheriffes his Brethren together with the severall Companies of the said City of London then attending him came back from the Sermon at Pauls Church through Cheapside there was just in the place where once that abominable monument of Idolatry the Crosse stood a frame of firre-wood set up and upon it divers Popish pictures and Romish Reliques Bookes Beads and Crucifixes were set on fire and bravely burnt to ashes making a most beautifull bonfire as they all past along Cheapside by it Praised bee the Lord who caused us thus justly to rejoyce About the 8 of this instant November wee received credible information out of the West by a Letter from a Commander of note and quality of the storming and taking of a strong Garrison of the Enemies which was Sir John Strangewaies House in Dorsetshire and had been a very ill neighbour to our renowned Garrison of Lime which service was most bravely performed by that valiant and loyall Patriot Sir Anthony Ashley Cooper Commander in cheif for the Parliament in that County a Copy of which Letter relating the gallant service performed therein for the Readers better content and satisfaction I have heer inserted Sir c. Wee marched from Dorchester to Abotâ—bury where Colonell James Strangewayes and all his Regiment were in Garrison they held both the House and the Church which joyned to the House It was night before wee summoned it and they in a scorn refused the summons of Sir Anthony Ashley-Cooper a very active and noble Gentleman our Commander in cheif whereupon hee sent his Major Generall with a considerable party against the Church who presently assaulting it took it and all the men in it prisoners without the losse of one man of ours After this wee summoned them in writing the second time to yeild on fair quarter or else to expect no mercy if they forced us to storm them To this also they disdained to return an Answer upon which denyaâ—â— wee fell on and after as hot a storm as ever I heard of for six houres together it pleased God at length to give us the place when by no other means wee could get it wee found a way by desperately flinging in fired turf-fagots into the windowes and the fight thus grew so hot that our said Commander in chief who to his perpetuall renown behaved himself most gallanly in this service was forced to bring up his men within Pistoll shot of the House and could hardly then get them to stay and stand the brunt yet in all this time God bee praised wee lost but 3 men and some few wounded Now when as by the foresaid hot assault half of the house was on a light fiâ—e and not to bee quenched then at length Colonell James Strangewayes called out for quarter which our Commander in cheif was resolved no man in the House should have in regard they had so desperately and disdainfully scorned his summons and also in regard that the Cavaliers custome was observed to bee to keep such paltry houses and pilfring Garrisons against any of our Armies that they might therby bee sure to doe us mischeif and by reason of our observed clemency to have their lives at last granted to them But some of our Commanders upon one side of the House contrary to the minde of our said Commander in cheif and against the opinion of all the Officers in his absence had given them quarter which being granted them wee instantly rushed into the House which being of a light fire and their Magazine in it I beleive rather accidentally than as some reported purposely and trecherously it set on fire 4 or 5 barrels of Gunpowder and blew up between 30 and 40 of our men yet the Lord bee blessed my self and the rest were even miraculously preserved Wee took prisoners Colonell James Strangewayes Sir John Strangewayes his Son Governour of
a 1000 Armes left behinde them for haste and divers barrells of powder with other Ammunition and provision and the Enemy taking along with them 12 or 14 Cart loads of their dead men besides many wounded Wee found about 200 wounded men of ours in the Town and not above an 100 slain in all this siege praised bee the Lord for it Since I came heer in 6 weeks time I saw a wonderfull change scarce a man to bee seen in a whole Village so barbarously had the Enemy unpeopled the Country I shall in all humility acquaint you with what I hear My Regiment is designed for the West I humbly intreat if it bee possible I may wait on your honour in your Army which if your Excellency shall please to grant it will much oblige Your most humble Servant Ralph Welden Palmister May 11. 1645. After the reading of this Letter in the House of Commons they began to consider of this great mercy and therefore Ordered in the first place That there should bee a publique Thanksgiving in all the Churches and Chappels in London and Lines of Communication on the next Lords day for the relieving of this distressed Town that so God may have the honour due unto him for it In the next place the House Ordered that a Letter should bee writ to Sir Thomas Fairfax giving him the Thanks of the House for his great care and faithfull service in omitting of no time for the releif of Taunton and that Sir Thomas Fairfax should bee desired to take particular notice of this gallant service of Colonell Welden A Letter was likewise Ordered to bee sent from the House to the Town of Taunton and to the Governour and Souldiers therein to give them the hearty Thanks of the Parliament for this extraordinary gallant service in maintaining the Town against the Enemy so long But the speciall regard that the Parliament had of this Garrison rested not there for An Order was made likewise by the House for the bestowing of 2000 pound upon the Souldiers of that Garrison for their valour and courage in this service And as an earnest of a further reward to the undaunted and ever honoured Governour Colonell Blake It was likewise Ordered that 500 pound should bee paid to him forthwith for his own use The House likewise taking into consideration that by reason of the late tedious and unwearyed marches of Sir Thomas Fairfaxes foot they had worn out their shooes and were in great need of supply it was further Ordered That it should bee referred to the Committee for the Army to provide and forthwith send down shooes for Sir Thomas Fairfaxes foot The House of Commons further made an Order of reference to the Committee of Both Kingdomes to take care that no advantage bee lost by the releif of Taunton but to use their endevour to improve it to the best advantage of the West and the whole Kingdome and wee have great cause to hope that care will bee taken thereof accordingly About the 15 of this instant May our most provident Parliamentary Statists for the more prudent regulating of the Generall Sir Thomas Fairfaxes New-Modelled Army Ordered certain very excellent Orders to bee observed by all Officers and Souldiers from the Commissioners of the Army to the meanest Souldier both to take care of false Musters of plundering of buying Horses for the State taken by the Souldiers that they should bee marked by the Mark-Master of the Army c. To forbid any Officers to quarter in any house but by Ticket from the Quarter-Master and to pay ready money for mans meat and horse meat according to the rates set down and in case any money should bee wanting to any man hee must receive a Ticket for it c. That Teames or any horses in Plough or Cart are not to bee taken except in case of necessity and then also by Warrant from the Commander in Cheif Divers other good Orders were then also ordained and appointed which are like by Gods mercy to produce good effects and a happy conclusion of this present unhappy Warre especially since wee know it is Gods way when wee manage our affaires without violence and wrong and wee see the Country us the Army passes along is extraordinarily taken with love and affection toward them at the sight of their fair and honest demeanour And heer I cannot omit to make mention of another singular mercy of God unto us in our Armies Viz. The most excellent love and good agreement of Major Generall Cromwell and of Major Generall Brown though both oâ— brave and high Spirits all the time of their being together at and about Oxford and elsewhere in all Orders and Commands even beyond compare yea even striving who should prefer the Service and honour of other more than of himself as if Davids and Jonathans 2 soules were transmigrated and mutually united in one body O if such sweetnesse and onenesse of hearts and affections had been found among our Commanders formerly wee had certainly now been in a farre better condition than as yet wee are like to bee in About the 20 of this instant our most noble pious and gratefull Parliamentary Worthies took into their serious thoughts the payment of the arrears of the most noble late Lord Generall the Earl of Essex whose faithfull and noble services for the State will make his name most honourable to posterity and Ordered the payment thereof partly out of the Kings Revenues and partly out of Haberdashers Hall in London And as a farther pledge of the Kingdoms love and gratitude to the said most noble Earl and as a requitall of his great losses sustained by the Enemy for his constant and loyall adherence to the Parliament and the Kingdomes just Cause an Ordinance of Parliament was passed by the House of Commons for the settling of 10000 pound per annum upon the said noble Earl out of the sale of Papists and Delinquents Estates The House also took into consideration the good service of the party that lately releived Taunton under the Command of Colonell Welden and Colonell Graves and agreed upon a certain pay for them during their service in the West and Ordered that 3000 pound should bee charged Monethly upon the Excise for 4 Moneths for the payment of those Forces The House likewise considered the most gallant service and high deserts of that noble and brave Commander Sir John Meldrum slain not long afterward to our great losse and sorrow at the siege of Scarborough-Castle and in particular his last brave Service in winning the Town Haven and shipping of Scarborough as also the brave assault hee last made upon the said Castle of Scarborough when hee received his most unhappy deaths-wound They Ordered that a Letter of Thanks should bee wrote unto him and that 500 li. should bee added to the 1000 pound formerly given him by both Houses of Parliament to bee bestowed upon him as an earnest of their affections
And base things in the worlds esteem and things which are despised yea and things which are not God hath chosen as heer wee see to bring to nought things which are And heer me thinks I cannot pretermit but most justly make honourable mention of what I have been credibly informed of touching our most noble and renowned Generall himself Viz. That hee was observed before this fight to have been exceeding merry and cheerfull in his carriage and countenance among his Commanders and Souldiers But after this victory was obtained hee continually day by day carryed himself with very much settleed gravity of countenance lowlinesse and meeknesse of face and heart as giving God all the honour and willing to take none to himself Two rare postures indeed of a pious and prudent Cornelius or Commander and fit for all Souldiers especially Saint-like Souldiers to practise and imitate For indeed both Hee I mean this our most renowned Generall and all of us with him might most justly as reverend Mr. Marshall in his excellent Thanksgiving Sermon at Christ-Church the Thursday following this famous Victory say concerning this glorious Victory as the most noble and renowned late Lord Generall nobly said at Keinton-Victory Never more of God and lesse of man And therefore as wee were most justly bound our most pious and prudent Parliamentary Worthies immediately upon their perfect knowledge and understanding of this so glorious a Victory as you have thus fully heard appointed a day of Solemn Thanksgiving to bee celebrated to the high honour and praise of our great and gracious Wonder-working God a Copy of which their Order I have heer inserted which was as followeth Die Lunae Junii 16. 1645. ORdered by the Lords and Commons in Parliament that Thursday next shall bee set apart for a day of Publique Thanksgiving to Almighty God in all the Churches and Chappels within the Cities of London and Westminster and Lines of Communication and weekly bils of Mortallity For the great and glorious Victory obtained by the Parliaments Army under the Command of Sir Thomas Fairfax against the Forces of the King And Mr. Marshall and Mr. Vines bee desired to Preach at Christ-Church before the Parliament And that the Lord Major Aldermen and Common-Councell doe meet the Parliament there And it is further Ordered That Friday being the 27 of this instant June bee set apart for a publick day of Thanksgiving for this Victory in all the Churches and Chappell 's in the severall Counties of the Kingdom under the power of the Parliament H. Elsynge Cler. Parl. D. Com. About the 15 of this instant there came Letters out of Shropshire which certified of severall good services performed by Colonell Mittons forces in those parts and for better satisfaction I have heer thought fit to insert the Copy of the Letter it self which was sent to renowned Colonell Mitton himself which was as followeth SIR I Being desired by Leivtenant Colonell Goldgay to certifie our late proceedings at Oswestree and the good successe wherewith it pleased God to blesse your Forces there I am humbly bold thus to trouble you On Tuesday the third of this present June your Troop with a considerable party of your Foot marched unto Clerk being commanded by Leivtenant Colonell Goldgay where wee took 27 horse from under their walls being the best horse I have seen together in Wales Wee drawing off in order the Enemy sallyed out came through the wood with firelocks thinking to redeem their losse charged our Rear-guard of horse whom Captain Simpkins caused to face about and fall on them lying in the manner of an ambuscado which they did and soon got through them and got betwixt them and home killed 2 of them took 24. the Governours Leivtenant being one and his Organist whose losse hath caused a generall Melancholly in the Castle and if hee bee not changed their mirth and devotion it is to bee feared will perish together On Thursday the 6 instant wee marched in the like posture to Shraden went close under their works took from them 24 good horse which was the greatest part of Dr. Charles Vaughan then Governour his Troop wee expected them also to sally out but the Dr. though hee hath forgotten his Preaching since hee turned Cavalier yet remembred his Grammar-rule Optimum est alienâ frui insaniâ For being warned by the folly and harm of Cherkmen hee was content to sleep within doores in a whole skin and to suffer us to march away with our prize without any of their lets or least disturbance This wee did without the losse or hurt of any one man of ours Wee ascribe the praise and memory of the work to that God who hath hitherto crowned your endevours with successe and I doubt not in despight of malice will doe so still under whose banner of love I leave you and humbly rest yours to Command And now upon the 19 of this instant June being the next ensuing Thursday after the happy tydings of the foresaid most famous Victory at Naseby according as our most pious and prudent Parliamentary Senators had formerly Ordered and as our most renowned Generall himself Sir Thomas Fairfax had earnestly desired by the Messenger by whom the relation of the victory was first brought a day of Solemn Thanksgiving was celebrated and wholly set apart to give all the glory of that great Victory and mighty mercy to the Lord alone as it was most due in all Churches and Chappels within the Cities of London and Westminster and the Lines of Communication which was as on this day most solemnly performed in a speciall manner at Christ-Church in London where reverend and religious Mr. Marshall and Mr. Vines preached that day before the whole Body of the Parliament both Lords and Commons whom the Lord Major the Aldermen and Common Councell of London met there and had invited the said most honourable Lords and Commons to dine with them that day in their City at Grocers hall And heer I hope it will not bee offensive or tedious to my Reader to give him a short sight or intimation of the manner of the gallant entertainment the City gave the Parliament at Grocers Hall that day not to mention the Messes of their dainty chear which in great plenty was provided answerable to so honourable an Assembly but onely to shew you the speciall guests and the order of their placing according to their state and Orders which was thus At the upper end of the Hall sate the Lord Major On the left hand The Prince Elector Earle of Northumberland Earle of Kent Earle of Essex Earle of Manchester Lord North Earl of Elgar Lord Brighton Two of the Scotch Commissioners On the right hand Earle of Pembroke Earle of Nottingham Earle of Salisbury Earle of Denbigh Earle of Bullingbrook One Scotch Lord The Lord Say There were three Tables more in the Hall On the right hand going up sate Mr. Speaker at the upper end entring to the doore toward
the Parlour Then all the other Members of the House of Commons in order So for the middle Table and the like for the left hand Table going up towards the Lord Majors Table In the Parlour All the Assembly of Divines in order In the upper Roome over that sate The Recorder of London at the upper end The Aldermen on the left hand The Common-councell and divers Gentlemen of quality on the right After these the Lord Majors Officers that attended and divers others sate down in the same roome where the Aldermen and the rest dined The Trumpets continued sounding all the time of the Feast After Dinner and Thanks given by Mr. Marshall both Houses of Parliament the Assembly of Divines the Aldermen of the City and all the rest being assembled in the Hall they sang the 46 Psalm and after that departed And Friday June the 27 then next ensuing was ordered by the Parliament to bee set apart for a publick day of Thanksgiving for this Victory in all the Churches and Chappels in the severall Counties of the Kingdom under the power of the Parliament The House also ordered that Letters of thanks should bee writen and expedited to the renowned Generall Sir Thomas Fairfax his Field-Officers for their extraordinary valour fidelity and judgement in this famous service against the Enemy And they likewise ordered that 2 worthy Members of the House of Commons should bestow at least 500 pound upon a jewell to bee presented to Sir Thomas Fairfax as an earnest of their love and affection to him And as for the Gentleman that brought this happy news to the Parliament from Sir Thomas in farther testimony of their great affection to their foresaid renowned Generall the Parliament most prudently ordered that an 100 pound should bee bestowed upon the first messenger 40 pound upon the second and for the other messengers that came from Sir Thomas Fairfaxes Secretary they also were all well gratified for their paines The House also about that time fell into a particular debate of the gallant great and faithfull service of that heroick and most valiant Commander Leivtenant Generall Cromwell and of the former desires of the Officers of the Horse under the Command of the Generall Sir Thomas Fairfax to have him Command them as their Leivtenant Generall and considering the great necessity of continuing him in that imployment notwithstanding the Self-denying Ordinance after a long and serious debate of this businesse they ordered that Leivtenant Generall Cromwell should continue Leivtenant Generall of the Horse under the Command of Sir Thomas Fairfax during the pleasure of Both Houses and that hee should receive pay as Leivtenant Generall from the time of the establishment of Sir Thomas Fairfax his Army and they sent to the Lords for their concurrence which was assented unto by them And upon the foresaid 19 of this instant June Both the Houses of Parliament and the prime Body of the City of London keeping the day of Solemn Thanksgiving as hath been forementioned It pleased the Lord as a farther addition to our former great Cause of Thankefulnesse and as an exact completing of our present just joy that day that that very day in the morning before the Sermons began the most welcome newes of the happy regaining of the Town of Leicester by ever to bee renowned Sir Thomas Fairfax was brought to London the particulars whereof I have heer thought fit to insert for the Readers better content and clearer satisfaction as they were related in a Letter from an eminent person there in the Army which was as followeth Honoured Sir Upon the routing of the Kings Army at Naseby as aforesaid Sir John Gell gathered together all the forces of Darbishire Nottinghamshire and the adjacent parts that possibly hee could and on Munday the 16 instant they met with â—ome of the Kings horse and took 200 of them and another party met with some of the Newarkers and fell upon them routed them took 60 horse 42 prisoners and 80 Armes On the said Munday June the 16. Sir Thomas Fairfax lay before Leicester and sent in a Summons to the Town to require the Governour to surrender it to him for the use of the Parliament and putting it to them to consider how the King was routed and shewing them what use they might make of that Clemency with divers other very gallant expressions to the summons to advertise them how much better it was for them to surrender than to force him to take it by storming To this summons the Enemy sent a negative Answer positively this that they would not surrender it whereupon Sir Thomas Fairfax called a Councell of Warre to consult about the storming of it which was soon concluded on that they should prepare all things in readinesse to round it the next day which was done with all expedition not losing any time So they sell presently to raising of Batteries and doing all things that were necessary for the storming thereof according as they had appointed and continued providing every thing that was requisite for the dâ—ing thereof to bee in a readinesse to batter it the next day and sent into the Country thereabouts for such helps as were necessary for the work which went on with great speed both night and day so desirous wee are to have a speedy end of the work that there may bee an end of these Warres if possible On Tuesday the 17 of June wee drew down our Ordnance and played with our peices against the Town wee stormed it playing with our Ordnance very hot on the Newark side which wee conceived was their greatest strength And in short time wee made a breach in their works which struck such a terrour into the hearts of the Enemy that the Governour sent to us to desire a Parley and offered to surrender upon very faire termes as upon capitulation should bee agreed upon To this request Sir Thomas Fairfax being willing to save the spilling of innocent blood as much as may bee hee assented and promised speedily to send in Commissioners for the Treaty and called a Councell of Warre and it was agreed that Colonell Pickering and Colonell Rainsborough should go into Leicester to treat with the Governour about the surrendring the said Garrison to Sir Thomas Fairfax And accordingly a safe conduct was desired for them which being sent they went to Capitulate with the Governour about the surrender thereof In the mean time Sir Thomas Fairfax was not idle nor did hee lose any time but went on providing and furnishing himselfe with Pittars Carts Hay Granadoes Ladders and all other things necessary for storming resolving to fall on at their return in case that they should not agree not knowing how things might fall out during which time there was both great pains and care taken by all in their places for the going on in the said work In the mean time wee had intelligence that the King was on Munday the 16 of June at
Sheffield that hee came from Ashby de la zonch thither with about 2000 horse or more the day before viz. Sunday night and marched that morning viz. Munday morning to a Randevouz neer unto Dudley Castle wherewith the Litchfield and Dudley horse and others that came in to their Rendevouzes the King had then about 3000 horse as it was conjectured by the Country people which saw them But to leave him in this his most unhappy flying progresse occasioned by his own unholy miscarriages and unnaturall waged warre against God and his best Subjects and to come to our present businesse All the rest of that foresaid Munday June the 16. our Commissioners were in capitulation with the Enemy in Leicester and the Army went on preparing for a storm having received no answer all that night and looking for the return of our Commissioners the next morning and so very early resolving to fall on if they had not agreed with the Enemy But upon Wednesday June 18 about 2 of the clock the Commissioners viz. Colonell Rainsborough and Colonell Pickering returned with a full conclusion that the Town of Leicester was to be surrendred and delivered up to the King and Parliaments use upon fair and fitting Articles of agreement on both sides namely that Loughborough or Hastings that pestilent Rob-carryer should have quarter for his life and liberty to depart both hee and his Officers and Souldiers that would with a safe convoy for their persons c. But to leave all Armes Ammunition Ordnance great and small bagge and baggage behinde them in the Town save only what was agreed on for the Officers in the Articles With those Articles at large expressed our Commissioners being returned unto Sir Thomas Fairfax certifying farther how marveilous joyfull the poore Town of Leicester was at the hearing of the said agreement and that they should bee rid of the Cavalierian Roysters which accordingly was performed and on Wednesday morning about 10 of the clock Sir Thomas was permitted with all his forces to enter into Leicester and take possession thereof for the use of the King and Parliament Wherein was left 14 peices of Ordnance 30 Colours 2000 Armes 500 Horse 50 barrels of Gunpowder And all other their Armes and Ammunition and provisions in great plenty with all their bagge and baggage And thus you see the Lord doth wonderfully for us still yea above the reach of mans wisdom and truely wee cannot but much admire the goodnesse of Almighty God unto us in doing so great things for us we cannot ascribe it to any but to the hand of God alone who indeed is the Lord of Hosts the God of battails and the onely giver of all Victories to whom alone therefore bee all the honour and glory and praise Amen and Amen About the 20 of this instant June the prisoners which were taken by most renowned Sir Thomas Fairfax and famous and faithfull Major Generall Skippon at Naseby fight fore-mentioned being neer upon 5000 in number were conveyed from Northampton to London and being brought into London they all marched clean through the City with all the Colours Standards and Ensignes yea even the Kings and Queenes Royall Standards about 55 in number which were all carryed in triumph in the faces of the prisoners who were thus led along to Martins-Lane end in the Strand the cheif Officers and Commanders being separated from the Common Souldiers were conducted by severall guards to Peter-House in Aldersgatestreet the Common Souldiers were disposed of in the New Military Garden guarded by the Green and Yellow Regiments of the Trained Bands of the City of London where they had liberty to discourse and talk with their Malignant friends and where and when some of them most audaciously entered many dangerous speeches other some confest and complained they were prest men and enforced to take up Armes for the King The next day of their being there which was the Lords day for they came into London on the Saturday they had 2 eminently learned and pious Divines appointed to preach unto them and such was the piety and charity of our renowned Parliamentary Worthies that 200 pound was presently allotted to provide bread and beer for them which was distributed among them the same night of their comming to Town I appeal then to the very est and most malicious malignant that is whether the usage were not farre more Christian-like than that most base barbarous and inhumanely cruell usage of our forces in Atheisticall Cornwall though Articles and conditions to the contrary were consented to by the King himself who was there present where they poore soules were very many of them stript naked and enforced to march through water and mudde thick and thin yea and some to go in that naked condition without or bread or drink some 30. some 40. some almost 50 miles Besides this how many of ours have been imprisoned at Oxford Marleborough and other places who have been tyed and manacled their necks and heeles together and many of them starved to death yea even wilfully murthered in prison as I may justly say in not being allowed sustenance or Chirurgeons to heal their greivous wounds where is you see heer our Parliament piously and mercifully provided both sustenance and Chirurgeons for their prisoners bodies and soules too blessed bee the Lord for it Much also about the foresaid time wee had certain information that our loyall and loving brethren of Scotland were now advanced and arrived at Nottingham with 7000 foot and 4000 horse expecting command for their removall and promoving of some great design for the good of the Kingdome and for the carrying on of the hopefull re-establishment of a happy and holy peace among us and that in this their advance their horse in their march on the way met with some of the Kings stragling scattered and broken Troops fled from Naseby and took at least 60 horse and their Riders neer Skipton And much about the same time wee had certain intelligence by Letters out of Dorsetshire that Captain Butler having assured information that the Kings Garrison at Corff-Castle had store of Cattle and that they turned them out to grazing every day but fearing our forces they brought them into the Castle every night hee therefore drew forth out of Wareham a party of horse and foot in the night being assisted by Captain Jordon and Captain Lawrence and lay undiscovered all the night till morning and at break of day the Enemy in the Castle having turned out the Cattle and horse to grasse Captain Butler who commanded the horse drew neer the Castle and faced the Enemy whiles Captain Jordan and Captain Laurence drew up the foot entred the Town beat the Enemy to the Castle and bravely kept them play whiles the horse drove away their Cattle from under their very walls to the number of at least 140. and took about 20 good horse and brought them all off safely
costliest Capitall-Letters of Gold I mean that most memorable Victory at Naseby in Northamptonshire given by our good God to his vaâ—iant and virtuous his gallant and godly servant Sir Thomas Fairfax the Parliaments most renowned Generall In the excellent successes of the Parliaments forces against their Enemies in Shropshire And the sacred and solemn celebration of a Day of Thanksgiving to our all-good-giving God for that foresaid great Victory in speciall And the Parliaments honourable gratitude to Gods Instruments therein A rare and right way to beget more blessings In the most happy regaining of Leicester out of the Harpeian-hands of Enemies And the triumphant conduction of the Naseby Prisoners to London there to bee kept in custody yet used there with Christian mercy and clemency In our loyall and loving Brethren of Scotlands neerer advance unto us to help the Lord against the Mighty Together with that brave defeat given to our Enemies by the Garrison of Wareham in the Wâ—st And valiant Colonell Joneses also against our adversaries in Cheshire In the Lords admirable good providence in bringing to light and publike knowledge the Kings and Queenes most ungodly designes for the ruinating of all their 3 late most flourishing Kingdomes by the happy apprehension of the Kings Cabinet of Letters Together with the continued good successe of our forces in Sâ—ropshire in the taking of Stokesey Castle Caus-Castle and Heighworth in Wiltshire In the most serious and sanctmonious rumination and recogitation of all which most rich and rare Parliamentary Mercies and Victories most sweet and singular passages and fair footsteps of divine providence and preservation O how should our hearts bâ—e râ—nzed and raised up to an exceeding high pitch of praise and incessant and redundant gratitude to our so good so great so gracious God who hath so gloriously and so graciously wrought all these great things for us especially that most famous and glorious and never sufficiently to bee admired mercy in Nasebies admirable and most advantageous Victory Concerning which O how can England greatly beloved England though most ungratefull and sinfull England but in infinitely bound and unbounded-exultation and admiration confesse and say with the Holy Prophet that The Lord went forth in this famous fight as a mighty man stirring up jealousie and wrath as a man of Warre and mightily prevailing against his enemies By whom the terrible one is brought to nought the scorners are consumed and all that maliciously watched for iniquity and blood are righteously cut off And therefore I say O how justly may wee heer take up that of the pious Prophet David and with him most cordially sing and say If it had not been the Lord who was on our side now may England say if it had not been the Lord who was on our side when men rose up against us They had swallowed us up quick when their rage and wrath was kindled against us Then the waters had overwhelmed us Yea the proud waves had gone over our Soules But blessed O for ever blessed bee the Lord who hath not given us as justly for our sins hee might a prey to their mouthes For our Soule is escaped as a bird out of the snare and all our help stands in the name of the Lord Hallelujah therefore Hallelujah praised and ever blessed and glorified bee the name of the Lord. ANd now to proceed in our farther progresse to the continued contemplation of this admirable still continued wonder of the Burning-Bush Vnconsumed and therein of the rich and rare mercies of our ever blessed and bountifull God the unexhaustible fountain of all goodnesse to us his English Israel And first I shall acquaint the Reader that whiles our most miserably seduced King was fleeting from place to place between Bristoll and the Forrest of Dean c. and taking fierce and furious illegall courses to recruite his mangled Army even almost quite broken in peices at Nasebies famous fight among the poore and perplexed inhabitants of Herefordshire Worcester and such parts of Gloucestershire as hee had any power in to strengthen and revive his now gasping and neer expiring desperate designes in the West with Goring and Greenvill devillish Dives and the rest In this interim I say our most pious and prudent Parliament had Ordered by a speciall Ordinance from the House of Commons that the Assembly of Divines at Westminster should upon Tuesday the first of this instant July seek the Lord our God for his continued ayd and assistance in blessing the proceedings of our forces then also gathering into the West in a set day of Humiliation in the City of London which was accordingly performed by divers of the most eminent Members of the said Assembly who all that day did Preach and Pray in these following places Viz. In the Abbey at Westminster in Christ-Church in London Black-Fryers Dunstans West Dunstans East Michael Cornhill Olaves Southwark Algate and Aldermanbury A Jove oâ—ne principium And are not those works like to prosper indeed which are begun in the Lord Yes certainly as now wee shall yet farther illustrate and set forth in their subsequent and most proper places And much about the very same time there being a strong suspition of dangerous persons to lurk and lye hid and harboured in a house in Long-Acres neer Covent Garden which had been the House of one Mr. Catesby where once the Popes Nuncio lay and was entertained this House I say being suspected was suddenly searched by authority thereunto given and there they found and apprehended at least 29 or 30 Carts load of Papists and pernicious Malignants goods to a great value being very much thereof rich goods indeed which was all taken away and carryed to Haberdashers-Hall or to Cambden-House There was among them also very much Popish apish trumpery as Crucifixes Images and many Popish Books which were laid up and kept till a due time to bee reduced into ashes by the fire the best use that could bee made of such Romane Babylonish babyish fooleries and the rest of the goods to bee sold to the best advantage and the money to bee disposed of by Order of Parliament for the use and supply of the Parliaments Garrisons and forces in the West About the 4 of this instant our most loyall and loving Brethren of Scotland published a most pious and modest Remonstrance which they had lately before sent and for certain had presented to the King himself wherein they shewed themselves full of godly zeale and fidelity to God the King and Parliament of England which being singularly worthy of speciall notice but too large to bee heer inserted at full as it was delivered I shall heer only for brevities sake give the godly Reader some of the most memorable passages or heads thereof which were to this effect First that his Majesty would bee pleased to call to minde their oft neglected addresses to him heretofore and after their prayers to
vast body of Horse against him and had also Musketteirs in a hedge which did flank him and somewhat front him also yet this brave Major managed the charge with such gallantry that hee routed 2 of their divisions of about 400. received the charge of the third division both in front and flank but at last being over-powered by reason of their numbers increasing upon him hee bravely retyred to the Generalls Regiment which was not farre behinde him and Colonell Desborough with the Generalls Troops sheltered him by his flank and charged up himself with about 200 horse and dispersed and scattered the Enemy and gave freedome thereby for all our horse and foot to draw into bodies whereupon the enemy fell to plain running not being able to endure the charge The Generall Leivtenant Generall and some other Officers being on the hill at this charge commended it for as brave and resolute a peice of service as any they had seen performed since the beginning of these warres Our men having thus put the Enemy to flight pursued them within 4 miles of Bridgewater And in the flight the Enemy passing through their own Garrison of Langport most mischeivously and desperately fired the Town at the Bridge end to hinder our men in the pursuite but renowned Leivt Gen. Cromwell himself and his resolute Souldiers undauntedly resolved to passe through fire as renowned Massie had before through water as was fore-mentioned after them and so through the midst of Lang-port they passed although the fire was flaming very hot on both sides of them there being about 20 houses in all burnt down And heer mee thinks I cannot but take speciall notice of the faithfullnesse of our good God in all his holy and righteous promises which to his children as they are alwayes in Christ yea and Amen so at this time in a speciall and most peculiar manner that faithfull promise of his by the Prophet Isaiah was most exactly heer fulfilled to these his Saints and Christian Souldiers When thou possest through the waters I will bee with thee and through the rivers they shall not overflow thee When thou also passest through the fire thou shalt not bee burnt neither shall the flame kindle upon thee for I am the Lord thy God the holy one of Israel and thy Saviour O the most particular and exact performance of this good word of God heer now I say to these his faithfull ones Even to wonder and admiration And thus it pleased the Lord to give us a glorious day of it by this so famous a defeat and apparent Victory Let the glory thereof bee ascribed primarily to our good God as to the Authour and giver of all Victories And in the next place to his pious prudent and valiant instruments our renowned Generall Sir Thomas Fairfax Leivtenant Generall Massie and Leivtenant Generall Cromwell and the rest of those valiant Commanders and Souldiers who were deeply ingaged therein A true and perfect List of the slain prisoners and prizes taken from the Enemy in this famous defeat Slain Gorings Quartermaster Generall of Horse Gorings Quartermaster Generall of Foot 60 Officers that were buried about Weston whereof some very eminent men 200 that were left dead upon the place whereof many Officers 100. or very nigh drowned Wounded Goring himself had a cut with a Sword over the eare Sir Thomas Aston and 3 or 4 Knights more wounded Taken Prisoners Leivtenant General Blothridge alias Bertridge Leivtenant Generall of the Ordnance Colon. Slingsby of Horse Colon. Hunningham of Horse Leivten Col. Standish of Horse Leivten Col. Gamble of Horse 3 Majors of Horse 4 Captains of Horse 11 Leivtenants of Horse 20 Cornets of Horse Colonels Leivtenant Colonels Majors Captains and Officers of Foot have not yet sent in their Lists save onely 3 of the Captaines of Horse 60 Inferiour Officers at least 1900 Prisoners Taken besides 35 Colours of Horse 21 Colours of Foot 2 Field peices 4000 and odde Armes 3 Cart-load of Ammunition 3 Cart-load of other purchase 2000 Horse taken and above Diverse Armes both of Horse and Foot daily found in the ditches which the enemy threw away when they fled The Camp Whâ—res fled away thâ—row the hedges 700 of those that are taken petition to serve the Parliament The losse on our part 2 Reformado Captains slain Major Bethells thumbe and fore-fingers shattered Colon. Butlers Captain Leivtenant slain Colonell Cook shot on the mouth slightly on his upper lip 4 or 5 of Bethels Troop slain and about 16 of his Troop wounded and very few more killed on our side The House of Commons Ordered upon the happy intelligence of this famous Victory that 200 pound should bee given to valiant Major Bethell for his speciall service in this brave fight And two good horses to bee given to valiant and virtuous Major Harrison who brought the news thereof And especially as was most boundenly fit our most renowned Worthies in Parliament Ordered and appointed that a solemn day of Thanksgiving should bee celebrated for the Lords exceeding great mercy and goodnesse unto us the Copy of which their Order I have heer thought fit to insert as it was printed and published by their authority which was as followeth Die Lunae 14 Julii 1645. ORdered by the Lords and Commons in Parliament Assembled that Tuesday being the 22 of this instant July shall bee set apart for a publike day of Thanksgiving to Almighty God in all Churches and Chappels through the whole Kingdom under the power of the Parliament for the great and glorious Victory obtained by the Parliaments forces under the command of Sir Thomas Fairfax on the Enemies forces in the West And that on the same day the Ministers doe likewise take notice of the great mercy of God in preserving the City of London during the sitting of this Parliament from the infection of the Plague and that this order bee printed and published Ordered by the Lords and Commons assembled in Parliament That the Committee of the severall Counties doe take care that the Order for a publick day of Thanksgiving on Tuesday sevennight bee dispersed to the severall Parishes in the respective Counties And that the Counties doe keep the same day And that the Members of this House that serve for the severall Counties doe send these Orders to the respective Committees accordingly And now all that I shall adde for the farther illustration of the just praise and glory of God touching this famous fight and glorious Victory shall bee onely these few serious and materiall Observations upon the same First that had not God made our Souldiers forget all their wearinesse and many other former and present difficulties and so hasted this famous work the Enemy had certainly been re-inforced with at least 5000 Welsh foot whereof 1500 were already come over Severn at that time Secondly Greenvile that vile Apostate and perfidious fugitive had undoubtedly brought down as many out of Cornwall with all
whom wee must of necessity have buckled joyntly together and so have undergone farre greater difficulty Thirdly that now wee having thus happily dissipated and scattered this great Army of his Majesties then in beeing not an Army is left unto him in any parts of the Kingdom but such as may bee with an ordinary active power still scattered and discomfitted and soon by Gods blessing bee brought to nothing Fourthly that if the Clubmen then risen up in Armes in those Counties and whereof I shall speak more particularly anon joyn with us now after this admirable successe they also may all suddenly bee at quiet and quickly see good dayes and the West all ours Fifthly I heer also desire Gods people with mee to take speciall notice of our most renowned Generalls wisdome valour and unparallelled expedition in this whole service ever since hee first began it and that according to the rules of Warre the honour of all next under our most great and glorious Lord God is cheifly due to him and that it is most clear that his rare Discipline and sweet Harmony with his forces with Gods blessing thereon hath been his Crown Sixthly consider the place where this defeat was given viz. a poore opprest Country and that in the remote parts of the Kingdome that so from the one end of the Land to the other wee and all they may see and know that God is for us and with us and it was also neer the place where the remaining part of the Enemy lay and it is a mercy to bee neer the Enemy and that in a conquering way too and not to bee forced to goe and seek him up and down Seventhly consider the persons by whom God gave this victory namely as I touched before in our famous Naseby fight that despised Army which was the scorn and by-word of many both seeming friends and open foes of whom O said some They 'le never fight being fearfull young Souldiers O sayes another You will quickly see an end of this poore New-Modelled Army I warrant you Alas alas sayes a third There is no worth in any of them all onely they pretend Religion forsooth but there is not a good Souldier among them and therfore they shall never bee able to stand against the Kings brave Army of old able experienced Souldiers Thus they proudly presumptuously yea most foolishly despised the day of small things And forgate that of wise Solomon That the race was not to the swift nor the battle to the rider Eightly and lastly take notice to what persons God had given the benefit of this blessed Victory namely that though indeed it must needs bee granted and with comfort recorded it was and is the most religious and praying Army that ever this Kingdome beheld yet mixed with very many wicked concomitants and rude and irreligious coadjutors as instruments therein yet I say in generall for us in this Kingdome who are a people most unfit for most unworthy of such and so rare mercies who have not yet repented us of our former abominations Yea who as much as in us is refuse our own mercies had not God thus freely loved us And therefore O what infinite and ineffable praise and thanksgivings are due to our God who thus continually heales our backslidings and loves us thus freely But now to proceed And now to perform my promise concerning the Western Club-men a disorderly rable and rude company of Mongrell Malignants and rotten-hearted nauseous Newtrals now about this time and lately before risen up in the West Of whom I confesse I have hitherto made no mention nor of their basenesse obstinacy and insolency both those of Wilts Dorsetshire and Sommersetshire because I looked on them as on a rude and undigested body of tergiversatious Batts and impious Atheisticall heathens worshipping the Sunrising and frighted at the Setting of it Who now seeing the rising of this Sun of Victory in the Parliaments Horizon especially the Sommersetshire Clubmen who indeed at the very first seemed to bee somewhat active Clubbers against Hopton Stowell and the rest of those Royalists and Roysterly incendiaries of the Western parts They now all began to appear for victorious Fairfax and besides about 80 of Gorings forces whom they had seized upon and disarmed before this fight they brought along with them who willingly also offered their service to the Parliament And after this they brought in many others of Gorings men prisoners to our forces and did other good service and stiffe execution against the Enemy where-ever they fastned on them Upon the 22 of this instant the publike day of Thanksgiving for the good successe of the Parliaments Army at Lang-port was according to Order of Parliament fore-mentioned solemnly celebrated in all the Churches and Chappels in London and Westminster and within the Lines of Communication And the Collections and contributions gathered that day in all Churches and Chappels aforesaid were for the releif of our distressed brethren in the West to refresh in some present measure their afflicted loynes And in the evening of that day after the performance of the publike and private holy duties thereof to the Lord our God other externall expressions of joy and thankfulnesse were performed also all over the City ringing of Bells and making of Bonfires especially in Cheapside whither a great many of Popish pictures Crucifixes Images Popish Books and such like paultry Romish trumpery which not long before I told you were taken in Long-Acre were now brought and just in the place where the guilded gaudy Crosse formerly stood were in a mighty Bonfire built up with firpoles and faggots burnt to ashes in the presence of multitudes of people triumphing at the sight of it Upon the 26 of this instant July came another most happy and plentifull increase of our comfort by Letters out of the West to London of the certain taking of one part of the strong Town of Bridgewater by our most renowned and heroick-hearted Generall Sir Thomas Fairfaxes forces and immediately after of the totall taking thereof by storm The exact manner whereof I have heer thought fit for the Readers fuller content and satisfaction to insert and set down in a Letter sent by a worthy Gentleman of Sir Thomas Fairfaxes Army who was a speciall actor in the Service to the Speaker of the House of Commons which was as followeth To the Honourable William Lenthall Esquire Speaker to the House of Commons SIR I Writ to you formerly of the late Battaile with Goring and of the taking of Lang-port and Burrough two Garrisons of the Enemy since which time the Army hath blocked up Bridgewater in nature of a siege and yet have refreshed themselves being necessitated to lie still if no Enemy had been neer till our money came up which arrived here on Wednesday and the Army Horse and Foot being Mustered were paid on Friday and Saturday the rest this day But Action being most proper for this
into the House of Commons and had 30 pound given him as a reward The Enemy quitted 3 small Garrisons neer Bridgewater upon the taking thereof And that which yet more excellently and eminently sweetens this great mercy unto us was that it pleased the Lord who is the only true God that heares prayers that this great blessing was granted unto us upon Tuesday July the 22. which was a day set apart in London in a speciall manner to seek the Lord by prayer and humiliation for this very thing which I say the Lord gave in unto us on the same day wee sought it as a most certain and blessed return of Prayer O who then would not still and for ever trust such a gracious God and benigne and bountifull Lord and Master And heer also I have fit opportunity to give my Reader one note more touching this businesse of Bridgewater viz. That one Mr. Peters being sent from thence by Sir Tho. Fairfax our most renowned Generall with his own Letter to the Parliament for the confirmation of the truth of the premises touching the storming and winning of Bridgewater Hee also brought with him 3 Commissions out of the West which hee then also presented to the House of Commons The Contents of which were from the Prince to one Mr. Philips a Gentleman of that Country to raise a Regiment of horse a Regiment of foot and a Regiment of Dragoones The Commissions were dated in January last There were likewise other papers from the said Prince Charles by which the whole design of the Clubmen was made manifest and how they were drawn into a snare to fight against the Parliament and to gather themselves together in such a mutinous manner and into disorderly bodies without any heads till Commanders were sent and set over them But as in part yee have heard it pleased the Lord to frustrate their policies and to bring their mischeif upon their own heads apparently seen by the late comming in of the Sommersetshire Clubmen to the assistance of our noble Generall Sir Thomas and their late frequent galling of Gorings Army But now to proceed See still good Reader the admirable and unexhaustible bounty of our good God for the taking of Bridgewater was not all the good news which this 26 day of July produced unto us for on the very same day Sir Rowland Edgerton who came with a Letter out of the North intimating the surrender of the strong Castle of Pontefract was also called into the House of Commons to relate the manner of it which hee did and had thanks returned by the House for his speciall service and diligence in it When hee came away our Souldiers had entred the Castle wherein was exceeding great store of treasure and much Ammunition The particulars of the surrender of which said Castle was thus related in a Letter sent from the Committee at York to the Parliament To the Honourable William Lenthall Esquire Speaker of the House of Commons SIR VVEE thought fit the last week to summon Pontefract-Castle which caused the Enemy to desire a Treaty Whereupon Colonell Wastell Col. Copley Col. Overton Col. Bright or any three of them were authorized to treat and this day it was agreed that the Castle shall bee delivered up to the use of the Parliament to morrow at 8 of the clock in the morning with all the things therein save that the Officers were allowed to carry away what is properly their own so that it exceed not what a cloak-bagge will contain and the Souldiers to march to Newark with 200 Muskets and 200 Pikes Wee consented to so good conditions because the Plague was very hot in the Countrey and especially in that Town of which some of our Souldiers are dead Wee are also in Treaty with Scarborough which wee hope shortly will bee reduced Thus much wee thought fit to give you notice of desiring the House may bee acquainted therewith From Your very affectionate Friends and humble Servants Francis Pierrepont Wilfrid Lawson Henry Cholmley York the 20 of July 1645. And upon the 28 instant wee received most certain intelligence by Letters out of the North of the happy surrender also of the strong Castle of Scarborough to that most valiant and brave Commander and loyall Patriot Colonell Boynton who lay before it as Commander in cheif of those forces since the decease of that thrice noble and renowned Souldier and pious Cornelius Sir John Meldrum Which said strong Castle was surrendred on fair conditions Viz. That Sir Hugh Cholmley that wicked Apostate should march out with his forces to Newark if hee pleased or bee transported into Holland which indeed hee desired In the Castle hee left great store of Armes and Ammunition and 25 peices of Ordnance And about the 29 of this instant July came certain intelligence to the House of Commons in Parliament by Letters from the Scottish Army at Ludbury in Wales concerning the taking in of Cannon-Froom a strong and considerable Garrison of the Enemies which was taken by assault in which storm at least 70 of the Enemies were slain and but 8 of the Scots and some 20 hurt The Governour Colonell Barnold was therein taken prisoner and mortally wounded in the fight together with Captain Brisk Captain Houk and 30 other prisoners and all the Ordnance Armes and Ammunition therein seized on for the King and Parliament And the House of Commons had debate touching this and all the good service of our loyall Brethren of Scotland and Ordered that a Letter of Thanks should bee sent to the Earl of Leven signed by Mr. Speaker in acknowledgement of his faithfull Service for this Kingdom and farther therefore Ordered that a Jewell of 500 pound should bee with all covenient speed sent to the Earl of Leven and bee bestowed upon him as a badge of favour and respects from Both Houses of Parliament to his Excellency for the unwearyed and faithfull services since his comming over with the Scots Army into this Kingdom An excellent way by gratitude to spurre on the spirits and fasten the affections of our Souldiers to goe on in their fidelity and industry for the prosperous advance of the affaires of the Kingdom And about the same time wee received certain assurance by Letters out of the West that the forces of that gallant Garrison of Lyme had taken Chadwick-House belonging to Count Arundell a great Papist a place that did much mischeif and annoyance to those parts and lay within 6 miles of Lyme There were above an 100 prisoners and their Armes taken in it 30 horse 3 barrels of powder and good store of other provisions and Ammunition Much also about the same time wee were certainly informed of the rendition and delivering up of Rabby Castle in Durham upon faire and easie Articles or conditions viz. The Officers to march away with their Armes to Newark that cage of unclean birds and the common Souldiers with their lives only
to say one Booke to the respective Constables and other Officers of every one of the said Parishes Chappelries and Donatives to be paid for by the Inhabitants within the said severall Parishes and Chappelries And it is further hereby Ordained by the said Lords and Commons That if any person or persons whatsoever shall at any time or times hereafter abuse or cause the aforesaid Book of Common Prayer to be abused in any Church Chappell or publique place of Worship or in any private place or Family within the Kingdome of England or Dominion of Wales or Port and Towne of Barwick that then every such person so offending therein shall for the first offence forfeit and pay the summe of five pounds of lawfull English money for the second offence the summe of tenne pounds and for the third offence shall suffer one whole yeares imprisonment without Bayle or Main prize And it is further Ordained that every Minister which shall not henceforth pursue and observe the Directory for Publike Worship according to the true intent and meaning thereof in all exercises of the publike Worship of God within this Realme of England and dominion of Wales and within the Towne and Port of Barwick shall for every time that he shall so offend lose and forseit the summe of forty shillings of lawfull English mony And that what person soever shall with intent to bring the said Directory into contempt and neglect or to raise opposition against it Preach Write Print or cause to be written or printed any thing in the derogation or depraving of the said Booke or any thing therein contained or any part thereof shall lose and forfeit for every such offence such a summe of money as shall at the time of his conviction be thought fit to be imposed upon him by those before whom he shall have his triall provided that it be not lesse than five pounds and not exceeding the summe of fifty pounds And be it further ordained by the authority aforesaid That no person or persons shall be at any time hereafter impeached or molested of or for any of the offences last above mentioned hereafter to be committed or done contrary to this Ordinance unlesse he or they so offending be thereof indicted at the next or second generall Sessions to be holden before any Justices of Oyre and determiner or Justices of Assize or before the Justices of Peace at their generall quarter Sessions next after any offence committed or done contrary to the tenor of this Ordinance and that he be thereby lawfully convicted according to the Lawes of this Realm by verdict of twelve men or by his own confession It is further Ordered and Ordained That all Common Prayer Bookes remaining in Parish Churches and Chappels shall within a moneth after the publishing of this Ordinance be by the Church-wardens or Constables of the respective Parishes under the penalty of forty shillings to be employed as aforesaid carried unto the Committees of the respective Counties where they shall be found to be disposed of as the Parliament shall direct And about the 20. of this instant we were for certaine informed by Letters out of the Northern parts of the Kingdome that about this time the English and Scottish forces were very considerable in Horse and Dragoones for the preservation of those parts from the rage of the Royalists viz. That Lieutenant Generall Lesley with 5000. Horse and Dragoons valiant Col. Rosâ—â—er with 1000. and the Nottingham Darby and Staffordshire Horse joyned with Major Generall Poyntz had their Rendezvouz neare Doncaster and were compleat 10000. Horse and Dragoones their foot being left at Yorke for their better safety and security the Kings great desire and designe being at this time as they were certainly informed to get further into the North but valiant and vigilant Major Generall Poyntz tooke speciall care to prevent him and to secure the passages at Ferribridge so to impede his progresse that way yet at last the King was come on as neare as Doncaster and had made Proclamation that all should come in to him to goe along with him to Yorke where he hoped to make a second Nest to nestle his devouring Cormorants again but findeing no appearance answerable to his expectation but contrariwise all our Forces ready to receive him he therefore made a speedy retreat backe againe in which his retreat a party of our Horse fell fiercely upon his reare and ferretted them soundly where they tooke the Lord Harris a Papist Prisoner together with 100. Horse and divers Prisoners and forced the King to fly away thence to Newarke About the 24. of this instant the prime Prisoners taken by our renowned Generall Sir Thomas Fairfax at Sherburn-Castle were brought to London by Sea and two of the cheife of them were as this day brought to the House of Commons viz. Sir Lewis Dives late Governour of Sherburn Castle for the King and Col. Sir George Strangewaies formerly a Member of that House who were by a strong Guard attended and at last caused to come into the House to the Bar where Dives demeaned himselfe very supercilliously and proudly seeming to refuse to kneel on both his knees til he was compelled unto it and then the Speaker of the House of Commons told him that he was much to be lamented who notwithstanding that he had been a meanes to shed so much innocent bloud and had committed so much Treason against his native Kingdome endeavouring to destroy the same and helping as much as in him was to draw the King from his Parliament and yet that his heart should no more nay not at all relent but that he looked before that Honourable presence as one whom God had given over to hardnesse of heart and impudency of carriage he therefore for his Treasons pronounced the Commitment of him and of Sir George Strangewaies to the Tower of London there to remaine Prisoners till Justice should farther proceed against them And about the 28. instant his Excellency Sir Thomas Fairfax our most renowned Generall having his Leaguer now before Bristoll we had certaine intelligence from them that the Club-men of Gloucester and Somersetshire expressed much affection to Sir Thomas Fairfaxes Army and afforded them a gallant Party for the taking of this brave and strong City of Bristoll and that Somersetshire had raised at least 2000. men and were joyned with Sir Thomas in the taking of the strong Fort called Portshead-point the true and exact manner whereof being related by a Letter sent from an eminent Commander in the said Leaguer to the Speaker of the House of Commons in Parliament I have here thought fit for the Readers better content and satisfaction to insert the said Letter verbatim as it was printed and published by authority which was as followeth To the Right Honourable William Lenthall Esquire Speaker of the Honourable House of Commons SIR I wrot unto you the other day in what posture we were before the Towne we have since
Horse to attempt the Line and Works by Clifton and Washingtons breach The manner of the storm being thus agreed on Tuesday at night all the Army Horse and Foot round the City were set in a posture to fall on the signes to give notice when the storm should begin were by kindling a fire of straw and shooting of foure great Gunnes Our Word during the Storm was David and after the Line was entred the Word was The Lord of Hosts About two of the Clock in the morning the storm began the Souldiers shouted for joy the service was very hot for a time especially with Colonell Rainsboroughs Brigade who with a party of his Forces spent 3 houres in the storming of Pryers-Fort a place of great advantage which piece of Service was as bravely performed as ever thing was done by man in regard they were put to the utmost by scaling-Ladders to win the Fort. They cut in pieces most of the Forces within this Fort and made the rest unserviceable and gave no Quarter to Major Price in the Fort. This Brigade took foure great Pieces in this Fort and two more in a Redoubt and Colonell Mountagues Brigade took sixteen Pieces in the severall Works and Half-Moons which they gained by storming The other Brigade under Colonell Welden fell on Somersetshire side with a great deal of resolution but when the Ladders were set to the Works they were too short the moat being very deep so that they only alarm'd the Enemy The Clubmen who fell on at Bedminster much terrified the Enemy Our losse of men was inconsiderable yea almost not credible considering their fierce brunts And truly in Colonell Rainsborough and Colonell Mountagues Brigade not forty men were lost and our Horse entred with our Foot the Pioneers having thrown down the Line and beaten off the Enemies Horse and took Colonell Taylor formerly a Member of Parliament being mortally wounded We had on our part Captaine Ireton sore wounded who was a Captain of Horse an honest and stout man Major Bethel was slightly wounded Major Saintleger and two Majors more of the Enemies part and divers others were taken Prisoners Now ours by this time being thus made masters of the most part of the Town and all their Works but onely the Main Fort Rupert fled into the Castle and ours being about to plant Ordnance against it on Wednesday morning about eight of the clock Rupert sent to desire a Parley but the Souldiers were generally unwilling to hearken to any tearms of Treaty since now they were in so faire a way of taking all by force but the thrice noble Generall out of his generous and noble disposition and resolution to mercy rather than to see so brave a Towne burnt to ashes and destroyed Rupert having already fired it in three places and vowed to burne all ere he would yeeld without Articles of agreement satisfied his Souldiers and condiscended to a Treaty which by six of the clock on that Wednesday night produced too honourable termes for such a mischievous and bloody Prince Colonell Murrey and another Knight being sent to the Generall as Hostages for the performance of those Articles which were about ten in number which here for brevities sake I omit particularly to mention and Sir Robert Pye and Sir Hardresse Waller were sent as Hostages to the Prince And things on both sides yeelded to and promised being exactly performed accordingly the Prince and his traine issued out of Bristoll accompanied some part of his way by our renowned Generall and ours immediately possessed of the City and Castle with all therein save what Rupert was permitted on the Agreement to have with him all which premises were confirmed by the testimony and intelligence of three severall Messengers sent to London immediately to the Parliament with Letters from Bristoll to the House of Commons which Messengers had by Order of the House 60 l. to be divided among them for their reward in bringing this most welcome newes to the Parliament And it was ordered That on the next ensuing Lords Day deserved and bounden thanks should be given to Almighty God in all Parish Churches and Chappels within the Line of Communication and Bills of Mortality in London and Westminster for the great and good successe which God had given to our Forces under the Command of Sir Thomas Fairfax in taking the City of Bristoll with the Castle and Forts thereof And on the Lords Day fortnight following Octob. 5. like bounden thanks to be given also in all the Parish Churches within the power of the Parliament thorow all England and Wales Our most renowned Generall upon his return from Rupert viewed the Royall Fort in Bristol which he esteemed one of the bravest citadels in all England in it were 24 Peeces mounted upon five bastions powder in quantity answerable victuall in abundance of all sorts 80 or 100 tunne of Beer Bread sufficient to serve almost 100000 men a day Upon the Line Castle and Forts might be in all about 200 Peeces of Ordnance then mounted and 300 Barrels of Powder Match and Powder proportionable a great Magazine of Arms some reported and that by the last and best intelligence 7000. ten small Ships in the Harbour ten Commanders slaine one Colonell mortally wounded sixty Officers and Souldiers slaine in the storme 37 desperately wounded In the said storm we also tooke prisoners 20 Officers in Arms 200 Common Souldiers and about 1000 after the taking of the City of Bristoll forsook the Enemy and chose rather to fight with Sir Thomas Fairfax than to side any longer with the Kings Cormorants we also took in speciall Basalisk the Warning-Peece which was lost in Cornwall the yeare before with some other Peeces of ours then also lost so that at Naseby Bridgewater and here in Bristoll we have re-taken all the brave Peeces of Ordnance we had lost before in the West All this rare and admirable successe was the Lords doing and is and ought to be most marvellous in our eyes to him alone therefore be all the praise and glory most worthily ascribed for ever and ever Divers Gentlemen of the West did petition to the House of Commons that renowned and religious Major Generall Skippon that famous Commander in Arms should be made Governour of the City of Bristoll which was accordingly and that most worthily condescended unto by the Parliament And now to proceed About the 12 instant we received certaine intelligence by Letters from Shrewsbury that the valiant and victorious forces of that brave and most active Garrison having intelligence in what posture the Enemy lay at Bridge-North they suddenly and silently marched thither and undiscovered fell upon the Centinels soone surprized them entred the Town it self and there fell upon the Enemy drove them into the Castle slew some of them and tooke some prisoners that the Enemy had of theirs tooke about 180. Horse and some good pillage all which they safely
of the State in those parts the House ordered that 2000. l. should be charged in course upon the receipt of the Excize with consideration also for forbearance thereof for the speedy supply of the Forces under the command of the said Col. Generall And for the encouragement and at a gratuity to the said Noble 〈◊〉 and Faithfull Colonell Genrall Laughorne the House ordered That the Estate of John â—arlow of 〈◊〉 Gentleman who had been long in actuall Armes against the Parliament shall be setled by Ordinance of Parliament upon the said Col. Generall and his Heires The House also Ordered That the Ministers of the severall Churches and Chappels in London Westminster and 〈◊〉 of 〈◊〉 should the next Lords day give thanks to Almighty God for the happy successe of our Forces in clearing the whole County of Pembroke for the surrender of the 〈◊〉 and of Lacock-House also in Wiltshire and it was ordered That the Lord Major of the City of London should give timely notice thereof accordingly About the 28. instant came certain intelligence by Letters out of Cheshire to the Parliament of a very great and notable Victory which our good God was graciously pleased to give to their Forces under the Command of valiant active and loyall Major Generall Pointz against the Forces of the King within three or foure miles at the 〈…〉 of the City of Chester the manner whereof was in briefe thus The King resenting the great danger he was in of the utter losse of Westâ—hester which in all probability was like suddenly to come to passe if speedy reliefe came not unto them Our Forces which besieged them since the taking of the Suburbs thereof having by their batterâ—es made a breach in the Wall and purposing 〈…〉 The King I say having knowledge of this their danger resolved with what strength he possibly could make presently to advance thither and with between â— and 5000 Horse and Dragoones part whereof he had drayned out of many of his Garrisons made all the speed he could to come timely to their help In which interim Major Generall Poyntz who indeed hath deserved much honour for his constant activity in the whole Service and resolution as I told you before most diligently to attend the Kings Motions having intelligence hereof and renowned Colonell Rossiter with his Horse being come up to Generall Poyntz and the Scottish and Cheshire Horse being joyned with them they all thus conjoyned together marched away with extraordinary expedition for Westhester and went on without any possible intermission day and night to get before the King and withall in his way took in a strong House with a Draw-Bridge moated which stood in the way of his march in lesse than an houres space And after a very hard march as I said day and night on the 24 of Septemb. in the morning his van curriers discovered the Enemy upon a Moore or Heath within three or foure miles at most of Chester called Rowton-Moore Whereupon notwithstanding his former tedious and even overtyring marches of neere upon 300 miles not resting above a day in a place together with divers difficulties which he was forced to passe through and all this to prevent or at least overtake the King yet I say notwithstanding all these he immediately drew into order and advanced upon them though all his forces were not then come up together for he supposed and hoped to take the Enemy at unawares it being probable they could have no intelligence of his being so neare though it proved otherwise for his Letters written that night to the Commander within the out-Lines of Chester giving notice of his advance were intercepted and the Enemy being possessed of the advantage of ground and in order confronted our Van led by Colonell Hugh Bethell in the middest of a Lane betwixt two Moores covered with the armed men of both Baâ—taliaes where was given a very sharp and gallant charge by both parties for after Pistols were discharged at half Pikes distance they disputed the matter with their Swords a full quarter of an houre neither yeelding ground to other till at length the Enemy was forced to retreat whom our men pursuing were re-encountred by a fresh reserve at the Lanes mouth and they were likewise discomfited and a third but being over powred were in the end forced to retreat through the Laneâ— uncapable of receiving a Reserve to second them here we had some losse the Enemy pursuing to the Lanes end but were beaten back for there was space for our Reserves to advance Colonell Bethell and Colonell Graves were then sore wounded after this the Generall perceiving the Enemy lay upon his advantage onely skirâ—â—â—ed him with some flying parties while he held correspondency with his friends in Chester Suburbs whose signe was the discharge of two peeces of Ordnance when they would issue out with Horse and Foot to joinâ— with him upon whose appearing the Enemy quitted their station and the Generall with a party advanced to take the most convenient ground giving command in Colonell Parsons Quartermaster generall of the Army Colonell Sandies who performed the duty of Commissary Generall of the Horse during the aforesaid march being then imployed to the Committee of both Kingdoms to order up the rest which was opportunely done for they joyned with the Auxiliary forces of Horse and Foot in the enemies ground and were drawn into many small Divisions and Reserves being much overnumbred by the Enemy who accompted themselves 5000 Horse and Generall Poyntz not above 2500 Horse besides two small bodies of Foot who were disposed in the two outmost intervals of Horse upon the very instant of this juncture the Enemy advanced with their whole Body and the Generall leaving the charge of the reserves to Colonell Parsons tooke care of and led up the Van Divisions with which after a round volly of shot from the Foot he joyned battell charging the Enemy in Front and Flanck where his horse was deeply wounded on the head being continually seconded with reserves as often as there was occasion the rest being kept intire followed at a due distance The prevailing Generall put the Enemy to a totall rout and although the pursuit was as hot as could be expected from such wearied Horse thorow narrow durty lanes and over ditches the Enemy rallied in a great moore wide of Chester in two vast bodies a great distance assunder the first not without some dispute were again routed and the other likewise who retreated upon the Warwick Regiment with such violence as bore them away confusedly intermixed with the flying Enemy up to the out-Works of the Suburbs the Musketeers within were never the lesse liberall of their Gunshot but the Divine providence appeared much in the distribution of the impartiall Bullets few or none lighting upon our men though many of the Enemy were found there expiring A Body of horse all the while of these last
hands and handle not And that word of God was made good in the enemy who upon the Storme had not strength to handle their weapons to defend themselves but were delivered to the mercy of our souldiers A great part of the Pillage was sold to the Country people who likewise had a good part of the prey and carried many Cartloades away The House burnt downe and demolished After the reading the Letters of Bazing the House began to debate of some further timely service of the gallant valiant and religious Souldiers which might be done in those parts for the better cleering the passage into the West and the result of all was that Letters should be written to severall Committees to joyne forces with those that stormed Bazing for the taking of the Castle of Dennington c. The House likewise ordered that the Ministers in the severall Churches and Chappell 's in London and Lines of Communication should on the next Lords day in their severall Churches and Chappels give thankes to God for his great mercy in delivering up Winchester and Bazing House into our hands And about the 12. of this instant October we had certaine intelligence by letters from Gloucester that the valiant Active and faithfull Governour therof Colonell Morgan the most worthy Successour therein of even to be honoured Major Generall Mâ—ssiâ— with about 300. horse and 400. foot part whereof was sent unto him by the then deputie Governour of Bristol Colonell Fleet-wood assisted also by the Monmouthshire men having taken the towne of Chepstow besieged and summoned the Castle but the Governour thereof Colonell Fitz-Morris returned a peremptorie negative answer whereupon valiant Colonell Morgan planted 2 great peeces of Ordnance and a morter-peece for batterie and made a breach into the Castle whereupon the Governour sent presently to desire a parley but Colonell Morgan as presently returned answer That now it was too late whereupon all the Souldiers issuing forth fell downe upon their knees crying Quarter quarter for Gods sake and wholly referred themselves to the Generalls mercy and the Castle was instantly surrendred to him There were in the Castle Colonell Fitz-Morris the Governour Major Bridgeman and an 106. Common Souldiers who were all carryed prisoners to Gloucester They took besides in the castle 30 horse and their furniture 18. peeces of Ordnance great and small 16. barrells of Gunpouder 2 Harque bushes 6. tun of lead great store of fire-workes 30. beefs in powder 30. barrells of salt 4000. waight of bisket a butt of Sack 3. Hogsheads of Methegline 4. Hogsheads of beere and Ale 70. bushels of Oat-meale 10. bushells of Pease and Beanes and 30. bushels of Wheat many firkins of butter 400. waight of cheese with store of other provisions and ammunition And we were about the same time for certaine informed that Sir Trevor Williams and very many Gentlemen of Glamorganshire and Monmouthshire had freely and faithfully declared themselves for the Parliament and as a testimonie thereof had raised 1500. Souldiers out of both those Counties for the Parliaments service and resolved suddenly to besiege Monâ—â—th the effects whereof you shall see fully related in its proper place And thus we see how triumphantly the Lord now rides on in glorie for the blessed advancement of his Great Cause ever magnified and praised be his great and most glorious name therein The Messenger that brought this welcome Newes to the Parliament was rewarded by them with the gift of 10 l. for his paines in the journey And the House also most piously and gratefully ordered that thankes should be given to Almightie God on the Lords-day then next ensuing for the happy surrender of Chepstow Towne and Castle as also of Winchester and 〈◊〉 And they farther ordered that thankes and a reward should be sent to that faithfull and valiant Commander Colonell Morgan A right way indeed to thrive and proceed victoriously and successfully where God is in his mercies exalted and vertue and valour is not left without honour and reward About the 14. of this instant October the Vote in Parliament for sending forth writâ— for the election of new Members of the House of Commons for filling up the vacancie of those that were Deceased or had perfidiously deserted the House was put in execution and a Letter being read in the House of Commons sent from the Major of Sandwitch by a Member of the House of Peeres to procure the election of a Member to sit and serve in Parliament of his nominating according to the writ sent downe thither for that purpose Whereupon the Commons on serious debate on this businesse referred the same to the Committee of Priviledges the result wherof was That it was ordered that for the future a Copie of the Order of the House of Commons made in Anno 1641. should be sent downe with all writs for new elections A Copie of which Order for the Readers better satisfaction and for the clearing of our most renowned Parliaments integrity in this as in all other their faithfull managing of the States-affaires I have here inserted which was as followeth WHereas the House of Commons hath received Information that Letters from Peers are directed to Boroughs that now are to 〈◊〉 Elections of Members to serve in this Parliament They conceived that all Letters of that nature from any Peeres of this 〈◊〉 doe necessarily tend to the violation of the Priviledges of Parliament and the freedome of Elections of the Members that ought to serve in the House of Commons and doe declare That notwithstanding such Letters all Persons to whom Elections of Knights and Burgesses do belong ought to proceed to their Elections with that freedome which by the Lawes of the Realme and of Right they ought to doe and do expect that if any such Letters from any Peeres of the Realme shall hereafter be sent unto them That the parties receiving the same shall certifie the contents thereof or bring the Letters themselves to the Speaker of the House of Commons Octob. 10. There came a Letter from Abington to renowned Major Generall Brown the most worthy Governour thereof being then in London of a gallant peece of Service performed by that brave Garrison against the Enemy at Farringdon the particular whereof take in the said Letter sent from valiant and active Colonell Paine the said Major Generals Deputy Governour which was as followeth SIR The last night viz. Tuesday 14 instant I marched forth with a party of Foot and all our Horse to Farringdon where we came so neere the taking of that Garrison that I my self heard the Enemy earnestly call to draw up the Bridge our Foot being then within a stones cast of them before they could draw it up yet we lost not our labour for we bickering and skirmishing with them there tooke about 100 Horse of theirs foure Captaines one Lieutenant foure Quartermasters one Serjeant 17 Troopers eight Foot Souldiers and one Drum in all about 37 Prisoners and slew two upon
by Letters out of Wales that valiant and Victorious Major Generall 〈◊〉 had taken in Abarashwait a strong Garrison of the Enemies in Cardiganshire and therein a Peeces of Ordnance 200. Armes and all their Ammunition Bag and Baggage So that now not only all 〈…〉 but the rest also of Major Generall Laughâ—â—â—s association i◠〈◊〉 of all the Enemies forces and Garrisons November the 5. being the 〈…〉 day of solemn thanksgiving or the annuall 〈◊〉 of Englands former wonderfull deliverance from that unparalleld next to this present Epidemicall 〈◊〉 of the 〈…〉 and Atheisticall Malignants against this Parliament and indeed I may say all Christendome where the 〈…〉 Religion was professed the Popish-Powder-Plot I say was with great and accustomed Solemnity observed and kept throughout London and Westminster And among other things Commâ—â—rated on this dayes Solemn Celebration the Ministers were desired by Order from the Parliament to returne humble and hearty thanks to God as for the speciall deliverance as upon that day from the Popish intended Powder-Plot a full and exact History whereof I my self have written and is extant in print So likewise for Gods wonderfull preservation over and 〈◊〉 of this present Parliament now 〈◊〉 5. yeares together complete notwithstanding the many most mischeivous Plots Diabolicall Practises and most Malignant Machinations of the Enemies to have 〈◊〉 and dissolved it Also 〈◊〉 like humble and hearty thanks and 〈◊〉 should be tended and aâ—cribed to the Lord for his most gracious and mercifull continuing this great and most populous City of London in so much health and welfare especially from the noysome Infection of the Plague of Pestilence especially also in such a time when very many parts of the Countries round about it were sorely visited and afflicted with it And the like solemn thanksgiving was ordered throughout all the Parliaments quarters a most pious and Commendable act in our most renowned Parliament arie-worthies and unquestionably well-pleasing to the Lord in Christ Jesus About the 6. of this instant we received certaine intelligence by Letters out of the Northern parts of the Kingdome concerning the farther active proceedings of that valiant and experienced Commander Major Generall Poyntz whose forces were now neere unto Wâ—rton a House belonging to the Lord Caworth before which they being approached and all things prepared for a storme they first summoned the Garrison and the Enemie thereupon soone condescended to Articles of Agreement for the surrender thereof viz to march out the next morning by 10. of the clock with Armes and Baggage and the workes to be slighted This House was indeed very strong but Shelford-Quarter frighted them sorely There were taken in this Worton-House 150. Armes 40. Pikes 3. Barrels of Powder a proportionable quantity of Match and Bullet 2. vessells of strong-beer and store of other provisions After this they clapt down before Wiverton-garrison which they finding to be a very strong place also the Generall upon treatâ—â— agreed that the Enemie should march away with bag and baggage to Banbury the Governour thereof Sir Robert Terrill was a knowne Papist And thus also this strong hould was surrendred into the Parliaments possession Lastly our forces came before Welbeck the Marquesse of Newcastles House another strong hold of the Enemies where after some agitation and articles agreed upon one whereof was that Tickbill Castle should be slighted and we in lieu thereof to have this strong-House slighted also it was at last surrendred and quitted by the Enemie who marched thence to Newarke leaving us to slight the House as was agreed on and the the Country thereby was brought into much safety and security from former continuall danger About the 8. of this instant November we had unquestionable information out of Wales of the remarkable Overture and change of things almost over that whole Dominion especially in the County of Glamorganshire how the active Gentry and inhabitants therof did most unanimously unit themselves into a firme confederation for the expulsion of their plundring Enemies the â—renous Royalists out of their Countrie and for putting themselves under the protection and power of the Parliament that so they might enjoy their houses and estates free from plunder and mine And that the Reader may see upon what firme and solid grounds these their undertakings were most discreetly and advisâ—dly layd I shall give you an ample fight and satisfaction in this their owne ensuing Declaration A Declaration of the Knights Gentlemen and Freeholders of the County of Glamorgan 25. Octob. 1645. WHereas it hath pleased Almighty God of his infinite goodnesse to blesse the weake endeavours of the wel-affected Gentry and Commons of this County to free themselves from those over-mastering powers and arbitrary pressures they grâ—â—â—d under whereof they have been desirous of a long time to be freed and now by the providence of God are in some measure restored to the Law and undoubted liberties belonging to the free-borne subjects of this Kingdome We have therefore thought our selves bound to testifie before all the world our most hearty and unfeined thankefulnesse unto Almighty God for so great a mercy extended toward us And also our most humble and hearty thankes unto that supreame wise councell of this Kingdome the Parliament for their unparalleld and unwearied care of the publique and their particular favours to this our Country in sending Captaine Robert Moulton Admirall of the Seas and other Gentlemen since to assist and countenance our endeavours against the violence of the enemie of the peace and quietnesse of the Kingdome And we doe all hereby declare that albeit being formerly over mastered by forces so farre that we were not able to appeare so readily as the duty we owed to his Majesty and the great Councel required of us Yet our affections ever sided and adheared to them our firm resolution is from hence forward to hazzard our lives for their preservation who have so long adventured theirs for the good and welfare of the Kingdom and no longer to be lookers on but joynt labourers by the direction protection of the Parliament in the happy stablishing this kingdome in a happy peace as far as our exhausted abilities will extend for the preservation of the true reformed protestant Religion His Majesties royall person prosperity and dignity the â—ooâ—ing and preserving the 〈◊〉 of the 〈◊〉 Kingdomes of England Scotland 〈…〉 the rights and priviledges of the Parliament the Laws of the Land which 〈…〉 and property of the Subject All which we will endeavour to maintaine with the 〈◊〉 of our lives And this unfeined Declaration we 〈◊〉 from our hearts and â—â—â—â—fie under our hands About the tenth of this Instant we had certaine intelligence by various Letters out of the North of the surrender of Bolton Castle to the Parliament Forces and that the defendants therein the Colonell Scroop and the rest of his Officers and Commanders had liberty to march away thence to Newark with their Horse and
Garye Lieutenant Colonell to Sir Tibbot Bourk eldest Sonne to the Lord of Maye Richard Bourk Major to Richard Bourk the Earle of Clanrickards Heire and Sonne to Sir William Bourk Brother to the late Earle of Clanrickard Captaine William O Shaghuise brother to Sir Roger O Shaghuise Captaine Garret Dillon Sonne to Sir Lucas Dillon who saith that his Father was shot in the thigh Captaine Ro. Castallogh Killed Edward Brown Captaine of 100 Musketeers out of Galloway brother to Jeffery Brown the Lawyer Three Lieutenants of Foot Two Cornets Three Engines Killed also the Titular Archbishop of Tuain the Rebels president of Cannaught a principall incendiary in that Kingdome in whose pockets were found Letters and other papers of great importance and for his own particular an Order from the Councell of Kilkenny for leavying the arreares of his Bishoprick together with severall other prisoners of inferiour quality both of Horse and Foot and 22 or 23 were drowned And here now I shall desire the Reader by way of introduction to what I have further to say touching this Irish Victory and especially some of the Papers taken from this foresaid Archbishop of Tuain to take speciall notice of the admirable wisdome and providentiall mercy of the Lord unto us therein viz. That in regard of the wonderfull great and good successe which the Lord hath lately given to our Forces in the West of our owne Kingdome and the King finding what bad successe he hath of late had as well as all along indeed for the most part in all the parts of the Kingdome both West and North now therefore sent Letter after Letter to the Parliament for the procuring of a pretended well grounded Peace and the way nay forsooth the only way in the opinion of the subtill Oxonians that must lead thereto he propounded to be by a Treaty nay when that could not serve by a Personall Treaty in himself proffering himself to come in person to our Parliament But our prudent Parliament who by much experience knew very well of what danger and disadvantage such Treaties have been and this also of the Kings personall coming in this juncture of time would be both to foment pernicious delayes and abusive designes for raising desperate parties to spoile us all resolved therefore most peremptorily to go a neerer way to worke to wit by drawing up Bils and to present them to the King to have them immediately signed and made Acts. But now that the Reader I say may see how fairely the King meant both in sending Letters thus for a Treaty of Peace yea and proffering himself in person to treat of Peace I have here thought fit to set downe the substance of one of his Letters sent to the Parliament for this purpose verbatim and most faithfully as it was printed and published and therewith also a Declaration of his compacting with the Rebels in Ireland against God our Religion and his English Protestant Subjects yea the whole Kingdome and Parliament And then I say the impartiall Reader may see how crossely and craftily yet most accursedly things were carried underhand even with extream Atheisme and impiety and now I say for the full clearing hereof take here first a true Copy of the Kings Letter to our Parliament expressing his even greedy seeming desire of Peace with his Parliament and his Protestant People and then you shall have the other Letter or Declaration sent into Ireland and then be amazed and confounded in thy thoughts at such hideous and horrid yea even hellish dissimulation Upon Friday Jan. 16. another Trumpet for you must know by the way as I touched before divers former Trumpets and Messages had been sent came from the King with a Letter directed to the Speaker of the House of Peers pro tempore the substance of which Letter was C. R. HIs Majesty doth expresse his great wonder that whereas he had sent a gracious Message on the 26 of December last the subject whereof was for a Treaty for peace that the Parliament should returne no Answer to that Message ever since He much admired what should become of his Trumpeter whom he sent unto them in December last having heard 〈◊〉 newes of him since his departure from Oxford unto London He seemes to be very carefull of the Government of the Church and desireth that it may continue as in the dayes of Queen Elizabeth and King James of blessed and perpetuall memory yet he expresseth that because the Act it abolished for the use of the Booke of Common Prayer he is not altogether averse that the Directory shall passe as it is now used in some Churches of London and this He is content to condescend unto for the ease of tender consciences He maketh no question but that He shall give both his Houses of Parliament a full content for the choyce of the Lord Admirall and other Officers of State if He finds his Houses of Parliament inclinable to a Treaty for peace in which he intendeth to assist in Person He expresseth a speciall care to satisfie the Scots in their arreares and to discharge the expences of the City and for the businesse of Ireland He doubteth not but He shall give His Subjects of England perfect satisfaction Subscribed Given at our Court at Oxford Jan. 15. 1645. This is the substance of his Majesties Letter which though communicated by former pens was read in the House this day and it is the rather here inserted because you may see how crosse it is to His Majesties Letter sent to Ireland and sealed with his highnesse Signature and Royall Signet which Letter together with other papers of great concernment were found in the pocket of the Archbishop of Tuain slaine at Sligo in Ireland the tenour of which Letter was as followeth C. R. CHARLES by the grace of God King of England Scotland France and Ireland Defender of the Faith To our trusty and right well beloved cousin Edward Earle of Glamorgan greeting VVE reposing great and speciall trust and confidence in your approved wisdome and fidelity do by these as firmly as under our great Seale to all intents and purposes authorize and give you power to treat and conclude with the Roman Catholicks in our Kingdome of Ireland if upon necessity any thing be condescended to wherein our Lieutenant cannot so well be seen as not fit for us at the present publikely to owne We therefore charge you to proceed according to this our Warrant with all possible secrecy and for whatsoever you shall engage your self upon such valuable considerations as you in your judgement shall thinke fit we promise in the word of a King and a Christian to ratifie and performe the same that shall be granted by you and under your Hand and Seale the said Confederate Catholicks having by their supplies testified their zeale to our service and this shall be in each particular a sufficient Warrant to you Given at our Court at Oxford under our
Signet and Royall Segnature in the twenty yeere of our reigne c. It was therefore ordered by the said Earle in the Kings behalf 1 That all the professors of the Roman Religion in Ireland of whatsoever degree or quality shall enjoy the free and publique use of the Roman Catholike Religion 2 That the professors of the said Roman Religion shall enjoy all the Churches within the Kingdome of Ireland other than such as are now actually enjoyed by his Majesties Protestant Subiects 3 That all the Roman Catholick Subiects of Ireland should be exempted from the iurisdiction of the Protestant Clergy 4 〈◊〉 whereas there was an Act made 〈◊〉 Parliament holden in Dublin in the second yeare of Queen Elizabeth entituled An act restoring to the Crowne the ancient Right and Jurisdiction over the State Ecclesiasticall and for the abolishing of all forraigne and Popish power repugnant to the same And whereas there was another Act for the Vniformity of Common Prayer and Service in the Church and Administration of the Sacraments and sundry mâ—cts laid upon the professions of the Roman Religion it is accorded and granted that a Parliament shall be called in Ireland and that an Act shall passe for the reliefe of his Maiesties subiects and that neither of the said Statutes nor only branch Article clause or sentence in them neither in any other Statute made either by his Majiesty or any of his Predecessors touching the free and publique use of the Catholique Religion shall extend or be of my force to prejudice the professors of the Roman Church for any matter or cause whatsoever And these things and some other of the like nature being granted by the King according to his promise made in the word of a Christian and a King the Confederate Catholicks did oblige themselves to bring in the number of 10000 men who are to be armed there one half with Muskeâ—s the other with Pikes to be shipped to serve his Majesty in England Wales Scotland at his Majesty shall appoint Thus have I set forth the Kings Letter to the Parliament on the one side and his Letter or Declaration to the most bloody and barbarous Rebels of Ireland on the other side And now how the King is able to reconcile these two vast contrarities and to give the Kingdome and Parliament full satisfaction as in that Letter to them he saies he will concerning the affaires in Ireland let the world judge and God and his owne soul be witnesse Therefore the Parliament as by Gods mercy to us they have done all things hitherto for the most part with much moderation and 〈◊〉 did very 〈◊〉 I think present to his Majesty in theâ—â— Letter or Declaration sent unto him on their knowledge of these things that the war in Ireland being fomented and prolonged by his Majesty to the utter ruine almost of the Kingdome of England and Scotland that untill satisfaction and security be 〈◊〉 given to 〈◊〉 Kingdomes for the same his Majesties coming to London could not be convenient nor assented unto Thus I say the Parliaments providence next under the infinite wisdom and mercy of our good God hath still wonderfully discovered and disappointed all the pestilent plots and dangerous designes of our adversaries and maugre all their malicious machinations and craftiest combinations made all our Parliamentary great grave and godly affaires go on with wonderfull safety and security ever magnified and praised be the Lords most glorious mercies for it But now to proceed About the 14 of this instant January we received certain intelligence by Letters out of the West that the Enemy in those parts continued in a most distracted condition flying still before us and our men loosing no advantage and opportunity to pursue them And that they no sooner had heard of our Forces approach toward Plymouth but as they were in their Garrisons and Holds before Plymouth about Plympton they immediately forsook them to provide for themselves by a shamefull flight and were no sooner fled but our men became masters of their Works There were found in Plympton upon this the Enemies hasty flight seven peeces of Ordnance which in that confused haste they were not able to draw off there were also taken divers barrels of powder and great store of Armes and Ammunition and it much joyed the Garrison of Plymouth to see a full deliverance come so soone and so unexpectedly and that in the depth of snow and dead of Winter whereas according to ordinary reason there could in such a time no reliefe be expected But the Garrison of Plymouth to be sure made good use of the flying condition of their Enemies for immediately they sallyed forth after them and tooke about 60 of them one whereof was said to be a Commander of note and one of the most active against the Parliament in those parts And as the Garrison of Plymouth was active so our renowned Generall Sir Thomas Fairfax with his most loyall and active Forces would loose no time or opportunity but tooke all occasions of the Enemies feares and flights and following them close made them quit Sir Francis Drakes House which they had made a strong Garrison and our men took possession of it And then Sir Thomas commanded a considerable party to march to Dartmouth who with much willingnesse undertooke the march and the Town being summoned the Enemy not onely refused to submit but sent out a party to fire some out houses supposing that they might be beneficiall to us during the siege but our Forces routed the party took 40 Horse and divers prisoners and slew the Lieutenant Colonell that commanded the said party And in the meane time Sir Thomas Fairfax sent to Captaine Batten Vice Admirall of the Parliaments Ships in the Westerne stode to come up to Dartmouth 〈◊〉 because he would storme it both by Sea and by Land whereof more in its more proper place January the 16 a Petition was 〈◊〉 to the House of Peers in the name of the Lord Mayor Alde â—men and Common-Councell of the City of London for the speedy setling of Church Government in the City and over the whole Kingdome as the day before they had presented one of the same to the House of Commons and upon the presenting of the Petition Alderman Gibbs made a Speech to their Lordships and after some consideration of the Petition the Lords returned them a most acceptable answer which Petition together with the Answer thereunto from the Lords for the Readers better content and satisfaction and the honour of that most famous and renowned City in such a pious Act and Petition I have thought fit here to insert them which were as followeth To the Right Honourable the LORDS now Assembled in the High Court of PARLIAMENT The humble Petition of the Lord Mayor Aldermen and Commons of the City of London in Common-Councell Assembled Sheweth THat in Novemb. last the Petitioners made it their humble request to this honourable
Chaplaine 2000 armes at least and all their Ammunition Bag and Baggage A brave famous and most seasonable victorie it was indeed and a most hopefull way and meanes of a speedy end by Gods mercy of all the intestine warres and bloody broyles in the Kingdom to God alone be all the honour and glory thereof About the 26. of this instant March we received advertisement of the full disbanding of all Sir Ralph Hoptons forces in the West and divers other occurrents of our Armie there by Letters received from Truro to the honourable speaker of the House of Commons One of which Letters for the Readers better content and satisfaction I have here inserted Verbatim as it was printed and published which was as followeth SIR IN my last I gave you an account of the beginning to disband the Lord Hoptons Army I can now satisfie you of the conclusion of that great worke this day having put a period thereunto except two troops of the Princes Regiment under the Command of Sir Francis Mackworth which by reason of the darknesse of the night could not be conveniently dispatched and so put off till to morrow at seven of the clock by nine it will be done and presently after Proclamation is to be made for the Enemy or any belonging unto them immediatly to depart from Truro and all those Ports to be with the convoy to morrow night or else to be taken as Spies and proceeded against accordingly I have bin present at the disbanding of these Forces from the first to the last except as aforesaid and never did see a thing done with so much civility on both sides and not the least appearance of insulting of ours as if we had never bin at variance each with other not a reproachfull word used nor the value of two pence taken from any man by the Souldiers of this Armie though the country people are apt enough if they have opportunity and the enemies Souldiers straggle to revenge former injuries but the convoy so long as the Souldiers keepe with them suffer not the least prejudice to befall them the number of Brigades in all that have bin disbanded are nine viz. the French Brigade consisting of three Regiments the Lord Wentworths Brigade consisting of three Regiments Sir James Smiths Brigade consisting of three Regiments the Lord Clevelands Brigade consisting of foure Regiments Major Generall Webbs of three Regiments the Lord Hoptons Brigade commanded by Colonell Rovil the Lord Gorings Brigade of five Regiments the Princes Lifeguard consisting of nine troops and 700. men armed Sir Richard Greenvils Reformadoes the men that are dismounted are proper and lusty men Orders are given out for the Army to face about and march Eastward part of it moves to morrow the residue on Saturday except two or three Regiments that are to stay behinde for the blocking up of Pendennis and the mount the Castle of Pendennis was summoned yesterday but those within gave a peremptory answer of refusall and Master Arundel beares the name of Governour but Sir John Digby sir Henry Kilegrew Colonell Slaughter Colonell Sir Abraham Chipman and some others of desperate Fortunes over-rule the Gentleman and make him governe and command to serve their owne ends though it be to ruine himselfe On Wednesday the Generall sent this Bearer in haste with a Letter to Saint Maws who imbarqued himselfe there and went three or foure Leagues to Sea to the Parliament ships and acquainted them with a Frigot of Dunkirk that lay in the Harbour at Falmouth and much annoyed our men at Penny-com-quick a place of good shelter for our men that lye against the Castle So this morning betweene one and two of the clocke a Frigot of ours put into the Harbour being Moon-light had the honour to be saluted with twenty peeces of Cannon from the Castle but got in without any prejudice and hauled the Dunkirk who instead of yeelding gave two broad sides but our Vessel presently made up and after a little dispute Boarded Her put the Irish to the sword preserved the rest and have them Prisoners a broad It is a fine Vessell belonging to Browne Bushel commanded by Captaine Lewis and will be of singular use to cleare the Harbour if any Vessel of the Kings happen to come in having the benefit of Saint Mawes on the one side and at the mouth of the Harbour the assistance of Hilford Fort which was this day surrendred to us wherein were twenty and six peeces of Ordnance so their strong Castle of Pendennis is of little use at Sea and by Land of no great prejudice considering the narrow necke of Land it stands upon and the Line that may be drawne from Sea to Sea and may be defended with as many men as are in the Castle Leiutenant Colonell Jngoldsby going to view the Castle received a shot from some Muskettiers of the Enemies that were behind the Mud-wals of which he died within three houres being a valiant and stout man Major Cobbet also was shot in the Arme but not dangorously This is all the accompt time would give me leave to present you with concerning the Army of these parts which I thought fit to send this Bearer purposely withall that you may be certainly informed of our condition adding this that about an hundred with their Armes came this day from the Mount to Truro the head quarters many took up Armes with us the rest went to their homes I am Sir your Servant J. R. Truro March 19. 1645. The Messenger staying till this morning I can now satisfie you that the two Troops that remained of the last night are this morning disbanded I have no other newes to write but to morrow the Generals Army marches towards Exeter Truro March 20 1645. at 4 in the afternoon And March 27 the House of Parliament in way of bounden gratitude to almighty God for this great mercy of the thus reducing of well-nigh all Cornwall to their obedience and that also of subduing and overthrowing of Sir Jacob Ashleyes Army and thereby obtaining a most happy and hopefull end of our troubles they having first invited the Lord Mayor Aldermen and Common-Councell of the most famous City of London to heare two Sermons that were to be preached before them at Christs Church in London In answer thereof the Lord Major Aldermen and Common-Councell aforesaid invited both Houses of Parliament to a Dinner on the same day of Thanksgiving At which invitation Alderman Foukes delivered himself as from the whole City to the House making a Speech unto them and Master Speaker answered the same by command of the House in a congratulatory way much affection and amity being expressed mutually on both sides About the 28 instant we also received certaine information by Letters out of the West of our most noble Generals advance toward the City of Exeter and concerning the taking of Pouldram-Fort neer Exeter and of Inch-House also by Colonell Welden the Governour of
Plymouth the particulars whereof were in substance as followeth That about March 21. 1645. the said Colonell Welden having summoned Inch-House where the Enemy kept a strong Garrison they returned a scornfull Answer Whereupon the Colonell sent 60 Muketeers to keep them from coming out and appointed 60 more to follow with a Demy-Culverin But upon the landing of the first they within begged Quarter for their lives and so surrendred all unto the Colonell There was taken in that Garrison 90 Muskets 4 Minions and 6 Barrels of Powder And by the same Letter we were likewise certified of the surrender of Pouldram strong Fort with 18 Peeces of Ordnance in it and much Ammunition with other Provisions good store which was thus yeelded up to valiant Sir Hardâ—esse Waller those in the Garrison having had in both of them fair Conditions to depart to their owne homes upon engagement not to take up Armes any more against the Parliament And about the 30 of this instant March we received intelligence by Letters from that brave and active Committee of Shrewsbury of their great and good successe in the taking of that very strong and considerable Garrison of High-Archall after a short siege and having by Granadoes and other great shot battered them for the space of nine houres together without intermission it being I say a place of great strength and well fortified and having a large deep moat about it and in regard of the scituation of it not thought feazable to be carried by storm but by the blessing of God and our continuall plying of our great shot and Granadoes which had done great execution among them in short space we caused them to come to a Parley whereat it was concluded that the Horse all but 40 should march away without Arms that the Foot should all leave their Arms behind them and that they should leave all their Ammunition and Provision of which there was great plenty behind them and they were to have a Convoy to Worcester the place they had made choice of to go unto There marched out 212 Souldiers and Officers out of this Garrison And thus Shropshire by Gods great mercy and the indefatigable industrie care and valour of their Committee is now well cleared from all their open Enemies And much about the foresaid time we were certainly informed that this most gallant and active Committee of Shrewsbury not yet resting immediately after they had thus taken in High Archall as aforesaid sent out a party of Horse and Foot upon a designe against Bridge-North but the length of the march and the wearinesse of the Souldier hindred them so as the Town took the alarm before they could refresh themselves a little and go on in the designe as was intended yet notwithstanding the next day they summoned it Colonell Billingsley who commanded in chief in the Town would give no Answer to the Summons and Colonell Howard who commanded the Castle gave a flat denyall whereupon in the afternoon having set out three Posts the brave Salopians resolved to storm One Post was assigned to Colonell Goulden another to Major Braine and the third to Captain Hickson who at the warning given fell all three on with such a courage and undaunted resolution that they stormed the Towne killed Colonell Billingsley in the heat of the storm together with some others and took divers prisoners the rest of the Gentry fled into the Castle the North Gate Fort also stood some hot dispute but was likewise gained and so the Town taken wholly into their possession and in its proper place we shall certifie the taking in of the Castle also which yet a while stood out very obstinately against them And much about the foresaid time we heard for certaine out of the West that Portland Castle was surrendred the Enemy within it having had liberty granted them to go to their own homes leaving all their Armes and the Castles Ammunition behinde them And upon the 31 of this instant March we were certainly informed by a Letter out of the West of the taking of Exmouth Fort the particulars whereof were as followeth in this ensuing Letter to Colonell Ceeley Noble Colonell I Beseech you to excuse my not giving you an account of the businesse of Exmouth Fort till now which hath been occasioned by reason of the sudden commands of Sir Hardresse Waller laid upon me to advance neer the City of Exeter And although I know you are well acquainted with our proceedings yet I conceive it my duty to advertise you of our condition The 14 instant I summoned the Fort and took possession of it the next day I have sent you inclosed what provision was left in it The Governour thereof Lieutenant Colonell Arundell desires to serve you for Ireland Sir we are now within Musket shot of Mount-Hadford and exchanging shot every minute and God hath pleased to honour yours with the Frontier Quarters As yet nothing hath happened that will not speak us Colonell Ceeleys The forementioned note of what was left in Exmouth Fort was 13 great iron Peeces 2 small Drakes 1 of brasse 3 Murtherers unmounted 72 Muskets 29 Collers of Bandaleers 10 Pikes 10 Halberts and Partizans 12 Barrels of Powder 2 bundles of Match 1 barrell of Pease 5 Hogsheads of Bread 1 Hogshead of Beef 5 Hogsheads of Salt 1 Butt of Beer c. About the beginning of the Moneth of Aprill 1646. we received certaine and most welcome intelligence of the surrender of Dennington Castle about which valiant Colonell Dalbeir having continued playing with his Granadoes into the Castle with much furie it at last procured this good successe That Sir John Boys the Governour thereof finding no hope of help or reliefe and perceiving what great danger the Castle was in at last he agreed to surrender it up to the said noble Colonell for the use of the King and Parliament And so the Enemy immediately came forth of the Castle having liberty according to their Articles to depart to Oxford and our Forces took present possession of it And thus this pernicious nest and den of Royall Robbers and abusers of those parts of the Country was now at last happily emptied and cleared and the Castle restored to its right owner againe that most worthy and truly religious Gentleman Master John Packer whose formerly it had been And Aprill 2. the Lords and Commons in Parliament Assembled prudently taking notice of the great confluence and resort of Papists Malignant Officers and Souldiers of fortune and such as have borne Arms against the Parliament of England from the Enemies Garrisons and Quarters unto the Cities of London and Westminster and other parts within the Lines of Communication Do for the prevention of such inconveniences as may therby arise think fit to order and it is hereby ordered by the said Lords and Commons That all Papists whatsoever and all Officers and Souldiers of fortune and other persons that have borne Arms
scandalized by a rable of rotten hearted impious and impudent Sectaries of the City and for the super-eminent Excellencie of the Thing it selfe speaking indeede much merited honour for it selfe I have here thought fit to insert it which was as followeth And here first good Reader thou shalt see the honour which the most Honorable House of Lords in Parliament put upon it in giving speciall Order for the speedie printing and publishing of it to all the world and then after it thou shalt have their most noble and ever to be renowned resent and singular approbation and Commendation of it immediately after it Die Martis 26 Maii. 1646. IT is this day Ordered by the Lords in Parliament Assembled That the Remonstrance and Petition of the Lord Mayor Aldermen and Common-Councell of the City of London this day exhibited to the House of Peeres and their Lordships Answer thereunto shall be forthwith printed and published And the care for the true printing thereof is hereby specially recommended unto Colonell John Bellamie who is by this Order authorized and required to print and publish the same accordingly And none else are to presume to print and publish the same as they will answer the contrary at their perils Jo. Browne Cleric Parliamentorum To the Right Honourable the LORDS Assembled in High Court of Parliament The humble Remonstrance and Petition of the Lord Mayor Aldermen and Commons of the City of London in Common-Councell assembled OUR duty in the first place doth lead us to begin all our Addresses as we most heartily and humbly do these with all due and humble acknowledgement of the great Labours and endeavours which Your Lordships have these many yeers employed in Reformation both of the Church and Common-Wealth and in preservation of both with the humble tender of our constant devotion to serve the Parliament according to our Covenant made before Almighty God In the next place we most humbly crave pardon although we do presume to returne againe unto your Lordships and humbly yet plainly lay open the sorrowes and feares of our hearts even in this season when as God hath blessed your Armies with the greatest successes and that man might perswade himselfe that the War is almost at an end For first when we remember that it hath been long since declared to be farre from any purpose or desire to let loose the golden Reins of Discipline and Government in the Church or to leave private persons or particular Congregations to take up what form of Divine Service they please when we looke upon what both Houses have resolved against Brownisme and Anabaptisme properly so called when we meditate on our Protestation and Covenant And lastly when we peruse the Directory and other Ordinances for Presbyteriall Government and yet finde private and separate Congregations daily erected in divers parts of the City and elsewhere and commonly frequented and Anabaptisme Brownisme and almost all manner of Heresies Schismes and Blasphemies boldly vented and maintained by such as to the point of Church-Government professe themselves Independent we cannot but be astonished at the swarmes of Sectaries which discover themselves every where who if by their indeavours they should get into places of profit and trust in Martiall and Civill affaires it may tend much to the disturbance of the Publike Peace both of the Church and Common-wealth We also cannot but call to minde what Vowes we have made to God in the same Covenant as well as our former Protestations to preserve the Rights and Priviledges of the Parliament and the Liberties of the Kingdomes and to preserve and defend the Kings Majesties person and Authority in the preservation and defence of the true Religion and Liberties of the Kingdomes that the world may beare witnesse with our Consciences of our Loyalty and that we have no thoughts or intentions to diminish his Majesties just Power and Greatnesse and do humbly rest in the assurance we have received in the many former Declarations of both Houses concerning their intentions towards his Majesty his Royall Posterity and the Peace of this Kingdome which we doubt not but your Lordships will pursue with all speedy dispatch of Propositions to his Majesty now whilst God doth so mercifully and miracuously go along with your Armies in all the parts of the Kingdome We may not in the next place forget our Brethren of Scotland how first they were invited to engage with this Kingdome in Gods Cause when yet they were at peace at home in what Covenant this Nation is mutually linked with them at what time in relation both to the weak condition of our Forces then and the season of the yeare they adventured upon an Enemy warmly lodged and well armed and prepared what they have since suffered for this Cause in their own Kingdome how successefull ever since God hath made our Forces in suppressing the Common Enemies of both Nations and what present hopes we have of a well-setled Peace while we continue in this mutuall amity And then cannot but lament the many jealousies which the Enemies of our Peace Union and good Government do now strive to beget between both Nations and tremble at the sad effects thereof if not timely prevented by the wisdome of the Parliaments of both Kingdomes We cannot also omit humbly to represent unto your Lordships consideration how many Citizens have already suffered and how many more will be undone if your Lordships shall still make use of that ancient Priviledge to protect your selves the Assistants of this Honourable House and the Servants of both and others from being proceeded against in any course of Law for Debt which now because this Parliament hath already sate so long and is likely by reason of the unsettlednesse of affaires to sit much longer would especially require some expedient for relief of so many as otherwise must daily suffer under this Priviledge And now that the Kingdom is almost reduced by which means the Revenues of the Kingdome will be unburthened and the Customes and Excise increase and the publike charge of the Kingdome decrease now that Delinquents do daily come in and compound and now that the Enemy hath but few Holds left we hope that the great and extraordinary Taxes and burthens on this City and their Trade shall be in the future abated that the Debts owing to the City and Citizens of London either by particular Assurances of the Parliament or upon the Publike Faith of the Kingdome be taken care for and discharged as well as those assigned upon the Excise and may not be diverted from the uses appointed by former Acts and Ordinances And we humbly crave have to present to the consideration of this Honourable House the Committee of Haberdashâ—rs-hall as being one of the greatest grievances of this City and which so long as it is continued doth hinder the concoursie of people thereunto and tendeth much to the destruction of the Trade and Inhabitants thereof And now also we doubt not but God
Treaty And how soon soever Religion and Peace shall be setled accordingly our Army and Garrisons shall forthwith remove out of this Kingdome And these things we shall wish may be speedily done and that the Propositions for a safe and well grounded Peace which did for a very short time remaine in our â—ands may now after so long expectation be sent to the King that upon his Royall consent to the desires of his People for setling and securing of Religion and Peace his Majesty may returne to his Parliament here all Armies may be disbanded the heavie pressures of the Subjects ended and the Kingdoms may remaine in a firme Peace and Vnion to all Posterity according to the Solemne League and Covenant 3 June 1646. These most honest and as I conceive most abundantly satisfactory expressions and demonstrations of our honest and loyall Brethren besides all their former faithfull performances of all things promised and protested by them and exacted from them ever since the beginning of comming among us may me thinks give full content and assurance too to us all of their integrity and faithfull intentions to deal most honestly and uprightly with us in all things in the maine I meane especially notwithstanding the most shamelesse and gracelesse calumniating tongues and selfe-seeking ungodly intentions and Satanicall desire of seditious Spirits to make a most sad and scelerous fraction and Division betweene two such Brother-Nations as we are or ought to be But let them take heed who evâ—r they be least the severe and bitter curse of God fall not heavily on their heads and hearts too who thus dare play fast and loose with sacreed Covenants and endevour to separate and that to a most bloody Division those whom God hath so graciously conjoyned for for my part I never reade or heard but that the Lord the righteous judge to whom vengeance belongs did first or last soone or late revenge most sadly and severely perfidious Covenant-breakers But to proceed About the 8. of this instant June a Letter was read in the House of Commons from his Excellency Sir Thomas Fairefax and therein Articles inclosed for the surrender of Bostol Garrison thereof I made briefe mâ—ntion onely before but now is most fully confirmed The Articles were to this effect That the Governour Sir William Campion and all Officers in Commission should march away with their horse and armes and those that desired to goe beyond Sea should have passes and they that desired to make their compositions should be effectually recommended by the Generall to the Parliament that their fines should not exceede two yeares revenue the Common Souldiers to march away without armes to their owne homes Hostages were given for performance of these conditions and the Garrison to be surrendred immediatly to our forces for the use of the King and Parliament And upon the 11. of June a Letter was brought to the House of Commons with Articles of the surrender of Carnarvan Towne and Castle by Byron the Governour thereof to renowned Colonell Mitton and the House after the reading thereof considered of a Governour for the said Garrison and having experience of the integrity valour and fidelity of Colonell Thomas Glyn they nominated and appointed him Governour of the said Towne and Castle Upon intelligence whereof the House of Commons ordered that thankes should be given in all Churches throughout London the next Lords day and likewise for Ludlow Dudley-Castle and Carnarvan About the 14. of this instant June we received certaine knowledge from New Castle of the Kings resolution to give speedie order for the surrendring of all the rest of his Garrisons which yet held out against the Parliament a Copie whereof I have here thought fit to insert which was as followeth CHARLES REX HAving resolved to comply with the designes of the Parliament in every thing that may be for the good of the Subjects and leave no meanes unassayed for removing of differences betwixt us Therefore we have thought fit the more to evidence the reality of our intentions of settling a happie and firme peace to require you upon honourable conditions to quit those Townes Castles and Forts intrusted by you to us and to disband all the forces under your severall commands New-Castle the 10. June 1646. TO our trusty and welbeloved Sir Thomas Glemham Sir Thomas Tidsley Colonell Henry Washington Colonell Thomas Blague Governours of our Townes and Castles of Oxford Worcester Litchfield and Wallingford and all other Commanders of any other Townes Castles or Forts within the Kingdome of England or Dominion of Wales About the 19. of this instant June the Parliament having had much and long debate about the Propositions to be sent to be signed by the King and especially about the settlement of the Militia of the Kingdome at last there was a happy Compliance of Both Houses about it And it was resolved upon the question That the Militia shall be in the power of Both Houses of Parliament for 20. yeares and in case after 20. yeares there be occasion to use Armes by any insurrection at home or forraigne invasion and the Lordâ— and Commons agree thereunto if the King will not concurre yet it shall be Lawfull for the Lords and Commons to proceede in that warre and exercise of that Militia for the safety and peace of the Kingdome And immediately after this the Proposions were by Both Houses of Parliament sent to the Commissioners of Scotland for their assent and concurrence in them And much about the same time there was aspeciall mâ—eâ—ing of the Divines of London and Wâ—stminster and within the Lines of Communication at Zion-Colledge where three of them for all the rest spent 5 howers or there about in prayer to beg direction from God about the acting and putting in execution the Presbyterian Church-Government according to the late Ordinance of Parliament enabling and authorizing them thereunto And some that were present there and Members of that Assembly assured me that they never saw or heard of a more zealous and earnest seeking of the Lord and their prayers were uttered with such fervencie and burning zeale that very many there present were so extraordinarily ravisht in spirit as caused very many teares to be shed and deep and heartily sighs and groanes to be sent up to Heaven And this holy worke being ended they began to debate of the worke to be acted by them and though at first they excepted against some things in the Ordinance of Parliament yet at length by Gods speciall providence it was resolved with an unanimous consent yea Nemine Contradicente to put on the worke and rest upon God and the Parliament for the Composing of what was found wanting by practicall experience onely for the better satisfaction of their owne consciences therein and to shew forth to the whole Church of God as well abroad as at home their advised care therin they immediatly upon it resolved on certaine Considerable Causions on which
at that Fight where and when the Earle of Northampton was slaine p. 2. p. 288 82 Sir John Smith brother to the Lord Carington p. ibib 83 Dr. Weston a Phisitian p. 2. p. 263 84 An Earl or such like eminent Personage found slaine in the field at Nasebie fight with a Star and a red Crosse upon his Coat but his name or title not known p. 4. p. 163 164 85 Major Threave p. 4. p 86 Captaine Fry p. 4. p 87 Col. Billingsly p. 4 p. 403 88 Capt. Cottingham p. 4 p. 409 89 Major Caft p. 291 90 Six Priests slain in Bazing House p. 291 91 Lieut. Col. Gardiner p. 4 p. 123 Besides many yea very many more found slaâ—ne on the places and ground where they fought but not named or knowne who they were very many buried by the enemies themselves in the places where they were slaine and very many thrown into rivers and secretly conveyed away out of the Feilds where they fought before their flight and totall routs at least 140. Cart-loads as was credibly related of slaine and sorely wounded carried to Oxford from Newburies first fight many Cart-loads carried away and many buried in Ditches at Brainford fight many also at Dorchester and Causham fights neare Oxford many at Marstonmoores famous fight and very many in many other places too tedious here to recite yea impossible almost to be recited besides such as being left behind in the sields where they fought who being stript appeared plainly to be Gentlemen and men of extraordinary worth and quality both by their pure white skins fine shirts and very rich cloaths but could not otherwise be knowne unto us And let the intelligent and judicious Reader take this observation from this short Catalogue of the thus slaine on the Kings party even of those partly ignorant and partly malignant enemies and opposers of God and his most righteous Cause defended by the Parliament viz. To see and take notice of especially the just revenging hand of God upon our Kingdoms Nobility and Gentry who having been the maine malignant and even Atheisticall enemies of Religion of the power of godlinesse and of a pure and thorough Reformation all along even ever since the first Infant Reformation in Queene Elizabeths dayes of ever blessed memory I say over the whole Kingdome even to these present deplorable times God hath therefore now at length mightily met with them thus by the Sword of Warre whom 'tis more than probable the Sword of Justice in a Legall way would hardly have reached or but sprincklingly and partially for feare or affection or such like 〈◊〉 respects as 't is much to be feared and brought to severe yet most just death and condigne punishment Of which most righteous and remarkable hand of God more yea most immediately and almost miraculously cutting off many of these most impious and audacious malignant and Atheisticall enemies of the Parliamentary Cause even in the very act of their desperate and devillish malignity against the same whosoever would see more they may be most abudantly satisfied even to admiration and astonishment in my First and Second part of A Looking-glasse for Malignants so entituled printed by Mr. John Rothwell Stationer at the Signe of the Sun in Pauls Church-yard in London Anno 1643. and 1645. The like examples whereunto both for manner number and time no Age or History I am confident is able to produce in any part of the world from Adam to this day And here also I conceive it cannot be improper to our present History or impertinent to the yet further manifestation of Gods due glory in his worke of Justice upon the enemies of his Truth and the Kingdomes welfare to give the Reader a briefe Catalogue of all or the most of those Court-Grandees and rotten-hearted Royalists who like so many Rats and Mice fearing the old house of their Traiterous Designes was now ready to fall upon their owne heads to their owne ruine even that the hand of Justice would now lay hold on them and pay them home for all their formerly purposed and practised mischeifes for the ruinating of the true Protestant Religion and their Mother-Kingdomes precious proprieties being now I say by Gods Justice on them made Magor-Missabib Ier. 20. 3. a terrour to themselves and their accursed Copesmares and being stung with selfe-guilt of Conscience and principally to avoid the avengeing stroke of Justice and partly also to practice and perpetrate more mischiefe if possible it might be against the Kingdome abroad as they had done at home Now therefore I say like so many viperous Vermine or naughty Nauseous obstructions upon the stomack of their Native Nation as most trayterous Fugitives they fled away being as it were disgorged and spewed out of the Kingdome as banefull and burthensome thereunto and forced to fly into forraigne parts to prolong a base and most shamefull life and without Repentance to dye a most ignoble and desperate death the names of whom as neare as I could I have here I say collected together and were as followeth Jeremy 46. 15. Why are thy valiant men swept away they stood not because the Lord did drive them away A Catalogue of the names of our Court Fugitives and most pernicious Catalines who fled and were forceably frighted out of the Kingdome for feare of the stroke of Justice 1 QVene Mary her selfe the fautresse and fomenter of all the miseries of the three Kingdomes next to our sinnes 2 The Lord Goring Senior 3 Sir Iohn Finch then Lord chiefe Justice of the Common Pleas. 4 Sir Francis Windebanke principall Secretary to the State 5 The Lord George Digby who afterward ventred to come backe againe but since that flew into Ireland 6 The Earle of Yarmouth Henry Iermine 7 The Lord Percie 8 The Marquesse of New-castle 9 The Lord Widdrington 10 Sir Hugh Cholmley 11 The Lord Goring junior Generall of the Kings Forces in the West 12 Generall Hinderson then lately before Governour of Newarke 13 Master Wat. Mountagâ—e afterward venturing home disguisedly apprehended and imprisoned in the Tower 14 Prince Charles 15 Sir Iohn alias Lord Culpepper 16 The Earl of Huntington 17 The Lord of Loughborough 18 The Earl of Northampton 19 Sir Richard alias Skellum Greenvile 20 Sir Nicholas Crispe 21 Sir Ralph alias Lord Hopton 22 The Lord Wentworth 23 The Lord Capell 24 Sir Endymion Porter 25 Major Generall Taplane or Laplane and very many Officers and Gentry of quality that went away with him 26 Sir William Neave of the Heralds of Arms Officers 27 Master Ashburnham And now also that the Reader yea even Malignant Momus himselfe may see my faithfull impartiality in this works and most renowned History I have here thought fit by way of Antithests or Opposition to set downe and shew forth to open view a most cleare demonstration of Gods most gracious and favourable dealing with the pious Propugnators of his most just Cause even the precious Patriots of their Religion and
by storming it by our brethren of Scotland The Scots pious prudent carriage before the storming of Newcastle Marley the Major of Newcastle his proud dissembling carriage toward the Scâ—ts What great most just cause England hath for ever to love most entirely their faithfull brethren of Scotland Malignants most slanderous mouths justly stopped A brave exploit performed by renowned Col. Seelâ—y Governour in Lyme The most just reasons of an Ordinance of Parliament against Irish Rebels taken prisoners by Sea or Land who are to have no quarter granted them Certain intelligence brought to London that ours and the Kings forces were within 2 or 3 miles of Newberry and like to be engaged The Copy of a Letter sent to the honourable Speaker of the House of Commons relating the whole fight at Newberry 28 Octob. 1644. The King in Newberry The Enemies strength at Newberry was 8000 foot and 5000 horse God heer took more care for his servants than the King did of his best Subjects Our Army was necessitated to quarter al night in the open field Ours took 2 or 3 cart loads of the Kings provision and 100 horse and foot of the enemies The fight begun The fight maintained for at least 3 houres space with admitable courage fiercenes on both sides The Earl of Cleveland others taken prisoners 9 of our brave peices of Ordnance which had been lost in Cornwall heer now recovered our men fought like devils as the Cornish Souldiers cryed our running away The King â—â—ed out of Newberry with only one Troop of horse General Gorings brother shot dead in the fight Prisoners tâ—ken at Newberry fight The King flying out of Newberry reviles the Major Prizes-taken at about Newb. An Order of Parliament for a day of publik Thankâ—giving to God 〈◊〉 brave defâ—at happy Victory A just check to our improvidence in not improving this braveadvantage as we might have done The Castle in the Town of Newcastle taken by our brethren of Scotland The names of the prisoners taken in the Castle A most famous defeat given to the Enemies at Bever Vale by Sir Jo. Gells Sir Tho. Fairfax his forces 800 horse and 400 prisoners taken at Bever-Vale Colonell Sydenâ—ams good service in the West Leverpool in Lancashire surrendred up to Sir Jo. Meldrum The manner how Leverpool was taken Prisoners taken the goods of the Town recovered by Sea Tinmouth-castle surrendred unto Generall Leven with 38 peices of Ordnance in it and great store of oâ—her Armes Ammunition The most wise providentiall degrees of Gods completing his mercies to us This Moneths day of humiliation was also most justly turned as much into a day of exultation Reverend Mr. Cases baptizing of the surrender of Newcastle with the name of Gâ—d a Multitude The Burning-Bush not consumed 1. A brief most grateful â—ecapâ—tulation of all the memorable mercies of this moneth of October 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. The Burning-Bush not consumed Isa 54. 16 17. Ibid. ver 15. Psal 18. 31. 46 Novemb. 1644. A brave exploit performed by Captain Stones one of valiant Col. Ridgele yes Officers in armes against the Enemy about Eccleshall This 5 of November a day of publik thanksgiving for divers great and famous victories The great triumph in the City of London on this solemn day of thanksgiving The Enemies Garrison at Sir Jo. Strangeways House in Dorsetstire stormed taken by Sir Anthony Ashley-Cooper The storming of this Garrison continued 6 hours together Between 30 40 of our men blown up with powder in the taking of this house A brave defeat given to the Enemy at Helmsley castle Free Trading with Newcastle re-established by the Parlia Helmsley castle in Yorkeshire taken by the thrice noble Lord Fairfax A brave defeat given to the Enemy in Lincolnshire by Major Harrison A brave defeat given to the Enemy at Axminster by Lime forces A rich ship driven into Lime Haven by a storm Another brave defeat given to the Enemy by Lime Garrison Laughorn castle in South-wales taken by Colonell Beal A brave exploit performed by Col. Sydenham against the Enemy at Dorchester The admirable courage valour of Colon. Sydenham and his Souldiers A grateful summary review of the various ways of the Burning Bush not consumed Psal 46. 11. Decemb. 1644. A brave defeat given to the Enemies at Salisbury by Sergeant Major Dewet Colonell Cooke Leivtenant-Col Hook with others taken prisoners The self-denying Ordinance for calling home al the Members of both Houses of Parliament The substance of the Ordinance or Vote it self A day of Humiliation ordered to bee set apart for both Houses in private to seek the Lord touching this great Vote Isaiah 65. 1. Crowland taken by Col. Rainesborough A brave defeat given to the Enemy at â—edâ—ury by renowned Col. Massie Good service done by Sir Tho. Middletons forces about Mountgomery-shire A brave defeat given to the Enemy in the West by Col. Holborn Plots conspiracies of the Enemies discovered and prevented Stafford Town and Castle in danger Doverâ—castle Abbington Ailâ—bury Reading Plymouth Lyn-Regis in great danger to have been betrayed An exact relation of the crafty contrivement dâ—scovery of the plot to betray Lyn-Regis The Kings esteem of Lyn-Regis Captain Lemon seems to consent to the plot The Governour of Lyn made acquainted with the businesse The brave carriage of the businesse Leivtenant Sâ—ubbin 5 or 6 more with him sent from Lyn by the Governour came in a disguise to perfect the work Mr. Strange findes himself betrayed Mr. Strange his CommissioÌ„ taken and sent up to the Parliament The Copy of the Commission Iounton-Dean in the West releived Colon Holborns activity brave service in the West Care taken by the Parliament for the choosing of good Officers in the City of London Captain Redmans brave service neer Northampton Knaresborough-castle in Yorkshire taken Cumhire Abbey a strong Garrison of the enemies in Mountgomery shire taken by Sir Tho. Middleton Captain Stones brave defeat given to the Enemy at Tongue-castle Another by Major Dewet And another by Col. Thorney The most noble Queen of Sweden desires Association with the Parliament of England The Burning-Bush not consumed Psal 367 8. 32. 7. January 1644. Sir Alexander Carew beheaded for treason Sir John Hotham beheaded for treason Captain Hotham also Son of Sir John Hotham beheaded on Towre-Hill A remarkable passage of Divine providence The Directory for pure worship Voted in Parliament the Common-Prayer Book abolished The Arch Prelate of Canterb. to be now effectually brought to his Condemnation A remarkable note Divers brave exploits performed by the Parliaments forces against the Enemies Cardigan Town Castle taken by Col. Laughorn in Wales and a brave prize at Sea The Arch Prelate of Canterbury executed for treason on Towre-Hill Isaiah 6. 10. Prov. 11. 10. A brave defeat given to the Kings forces at Abbington by renowned Major Generall Brown A Copy of Col. Harsnets Letter to Capt. Jones touching
to bee highly honored and advanced Malignant slanderers mouthes against the Parliament stopped A second rebellion in Keâ—t but soon suppressed by valiant Colonell Blunt A brave â—ef at given to the Enemy at Rumsey by valiant Colon. No tens forces Divers of the Lords at Oxford come in unto the Parliament The Earles Lords names that are returned from Oxford to the Parliament A brave defeat given to Prince Maurice his forces in Worcestershire Major Pilkinton slain Divers brave victories defeats given to the Enemy about Oxford Sir Tho Fairfax advanced into the field set down before Oxford An extract out of Letters of Leivtenant Gen. Cromwels victory at Oxford A brave victory obtained by Leivten Gen. Cromwell neer Islip by Oxford The Enemy is totally routed Blechington-house summoned surrendred Major Generall Browns brave defeat given to the Enemy about Oxford Colonell Feins gives the Enemy a brave defeat Another brave victory obtained by Leivtenant Generall Cromwell at Bampton-Bush over Sir Henry Vaughan and his forces A brave prize taken The singular good estate of our Army at Oxford under the noble Generall Sir Tho. Fairfax Our Army at this time was 4000 horse 13000 foot The businesse of the Admiralty Sea-affairs is taken into consideration Commissioners for the Admiralty nominated The Burning-Bush not consumed Psal 30 11 12. May. 1645. The Copy of Colon. Massies own Letter setting forth his great danger as great deliverance The good successe valiant services of the the Parliaments forces at Warwick under Major Purefoy A brave prize taken The happy releif of the precious Town of Taunton by renowned Sir Tho Fairfaxes forces under the command of Col. Welden Col. Graves The brave Discipline of our Army in the West our releif come to Taunton Hopton 〈◊〉 to Tauntâ— to surrender Colonel Blakes reply The siege raised the Enemies fled The seasonablenesse of Taunton â—â—leif at this time The Enemies losse before Taunton Excellent Orders appointed by the Parliament for the well-regulating of Sir Thomas Fairfaxes new Army The hopefull effects of a well regulated army Major General Cromwell and Major Generall Brown compared to David Jonathan The Parliaments most singular gratitude for the good services done to the kingdom by the Right honourable the Earl of Essex others The Souldiers that releived Taunton gratefully remembred by the Parliament Renowned Sir John Meldâ—uâ—s gallant service required Mr. Owen Occoâ—elly taken into farther consideration for his loyall discovery of the Irish plot The brave services of valiant Captain Stone Governour of Staâ—â—â—d castle against the Enemy A blessed return of Prayer Evesham taken by renowned Colon. Massie The prisoners prizes taken A brave defeat given to the Enemy by Col. Norton at Langford house in Hampshire The Burning-Bush not consumed Isai 25. 1. June 1645. The most famous City of Londons most excellent Petition to the Parliament touching the then present sad condition of the Kingdom A Copy of the Petition of the Citizens of London to the Parliament A brave defeat given to the Enemies neer Chester by valiant Leivâ—en Col Venables A most brave defeat given to the Newarkers at Houghâ—â— house by valiant and active Colon. Rossitâ—r A iust reward of a sleeping souldier according to the rules of Martiall Discipline â—olon Rossiter bravely recovers Hougâ—m house The prisoners prizes taken at Nougham houses recovery The most famous fight and glorious victory obtained at Naseby in Northampton-shire over the Kings forces exactly described The Kings Army at Daventry The Kings Army not willing to fight marcheth toward Southaâ—â— The Royall army advanced to Harborough And froÌ„ thence to Nâ—sâ—by The manner of Marshalling our Army for the battail The Kings Army advanceth toward us The fight begins 2 Châ—â—oâ— 32. 7 8 Heer the fight was very hot furious on both sides The Kings blue Regiment of Foot â—uinated and destroyed Our left Wing is some what shatter'd The Enemy is beaten by our right Wing The King himself rallyed his Horse again The Kings words to his Souldiers The Enemy is beaten again The Enemy is pursued 12 or 13 miles within 3 miles of Leicester The high and prime praise of this victory given to God in the first place The Renowned Generall next as most worthy praise Courageous Major General Skippon Valiant Leivtenant General Cormwell Commissary Generall Ireton and Colonell Butler The Enemies Foot fought also very stoutly Good store of Bisket and Cheese takes to refresh our Souldiers at the end of the Fight Our Souldiers marched to Harborough that night The slaine in the Field of the Enemies The Ensignes of the Enemies taken in the field One great encouragement to our Souldiers to fight bravely was the rich plunder of the Enemies Very many Irish Queanes in the field how they were used The slaine on out side in the Fight A most slanderous and abominable lie of Secretary Nicholas put upon the Parliament The Victory pursued by our Horse toward Leicester A List of what losse the King did sustaine in this famous fight The slain and wounded Prisoners Prizes 〈…〉 〈◊〉 on the Victory â—1 The 〈◊〉 and condition of the Kingdome 1. The Kingdome fourfold sad condition at this time 2. 3. 4. 2. Considering the Army it self The new Model'd Army despised and scorned 1 Cor. 1. 27 28. An Excellent note touching the Generall himself about this fight and Victory Two rare postures in a victorious Generall or Commander Reverend Mr. Marshall in his Thanksgiving Sermon at Christ-Church in London The good Service of valiant Colonell Mittâ—â—â— Forces in Shropshire A day of solemn Thanksgiving set apart to praise the Lord for the late great Victory at Naseby which was especially celebrated at Christ-Church in London The thanks of the Parliament sent to the noble Generall his field officers A jewel of 500 li. to be sent as a present to Sir Tho Fairfax from the Parliament The messengers of this victory rewarded Leicester regained the news therof brought to London on the Thanksgiving day in the morning the more to sweeteÌ„ that dayes joy The manner of the regaining of Leicester The Kings flying from Leicester Preparation to storm Leicester Leicester surrendred to Sir Thomas Fairfax upon composition The prize taken in Leicester The Prisoners taken at Naseby fight being neer 5000 with 55 Colours c. brought up to London The prisoners disposed of into several holds The usage of the Cavalierian prisoners by our Parliament The usage of our Parliaments prisoners by the King his Cavaliers Our Brethren of Scotlands advance to Nottingham A brave exploit performed by the Garrison of Wareham in the West A brave defeat given to the Enemy by valiant Colo. Jones in Cheshire The Kings Cabinet of Letters taken at Naseby sent to the Parliament the Letters opened and read 4 Main heads of the Letters 1. 2. 3. 4. The Cabinet of Letters publikely read in Guild Hall in London afterward printed published with Annotations Stckesey Castle
Parliamentary Chronicle The SuburB of the City of Chester woâ— by valiant active Coloâ—â—â— Iones The manner entring in the Subuâ—â—â— of Chester 〈◊〉 our forces A brave defeat given to a party of the Kings horse about Kidderminster by renowned Major Generall Poyntz Cardiff Town and Castle surrendred to the Parliaments forces The Devires Towne and Castle taken by valiant Leivtenant Generall Cromwell 〈◊〉 House in Wiltshire surrendred to the Parliament All Pembrokeshire reduced to the Parliaments obedience The Parliaments gratitude to Colonell Generall Laughorne Thanksgiving to God for these so great mercies The famous Victory obtained by Major Gen. Poyntz at Routon Heath neer Chester The King prepares to relieve Westchester Major Generall Poyntz his admirable activity to follow prevent the King Major Generall Poyntz his remarkable march to prevent or overtake the King The fight begun fiercely The Enemy put to a retreat Oâ—rs sorely put to it Col. Bethell and Col. Graves sorely wounded Ours much 〈◊〉 by the Enemy Major Generall Poyntz his Horse wounded on the head The admirable courage of Major Generall Poyntz The Enemy routed mixed with troubled ours The Enemy appeared again in a body on a hill The Enemy sallyed out of the City are repulsed Prisoners and prizes taken The slaine The Lord Bernhard Earl of Litchfield A day of deserved thanksgiving appointed by order of Parliament 500. â— Sent as a token to renowned Major General Poynz Alderman Adams chosen Lord Major of the City of London Religious Mr. Tomlins made a Baron of the Exchequer Other well deserving Gentlemen of the Law made Judges by the Parliament Barkley Castle surrendree to valiant Colonell Morgan and Colonell Rainsborough The Burning-Bush unconsumed Not a month a week nay hardly a day void of one mercy or other unto us Psal 68. 19. Psalm 32. 7. October 1645. A brave defeat given to the Enemie by Colonel Moore Governour of Gaunt-house Farleigh-Castle in Somersetsh taken Sandal-Castle in Yorkeshire taken Winchester Towne and Castle taken by victorious Leivten Generall Cromwell The list of what was taken from the edemie in Winchester Castle The strength of Winchester-Castle The Parliaments intended mercy even to Malignants and Delinquents The Excellent wisedome and justice of the Parliament mixed with their foresaid mercie Bazing-House taken A list of the prizes and prisoners taken at Bazing-House The slain and wounded Chepstow Town and Castle in Monmouthshire besieged and taken by valiant Colonell Morgan The Parliaments piety and gratitude The Parliaments integrity about the election of new Members for the House of Commons The writ for the right chusing of Members of the House of Commons A brave defeat given to the Enemy at Farringdon by Abington Forces A brave defeat given by Col Rossiter to the Banbury Forces which conducted the two Princes to Newarke Valiant Captain Allen Governour of Burleigh Garrison unhappily slaine Langford House neare Salisbury taken A note most worthy to be taken notice of Sir William Vaughanâ— Regiment bravely beaten The famous defeat given to the Enemy at Sherburne in Yorkshire Col. Copleyes Letter touching the most famous defeat given to the Enemy at Sherburne The Enemy surprizeth our Forces in Sherburne both Horse and Foote The difficulties our Forces met about Sherburne Both parties meet together in the Field The substance of Sir Marmaduke Langdalet Speech to his Souldiers before this fight The fight begun The Enemy routed and put to flight The Lord Digby wounded in the Fight and foure Pistols fired on Sir Marmaduke Langdale The Enemy pursued three miles Scarcely ten of our men slaine The importance of this businesse All our men and Arms recovered that were taken before The admirable and almost miraculous taking in of Tiverton Towne and Castle Major Generall Massie enters Tiverton The Generall fits downe before the Castle Church The admirable providence of God here that one of our Canoneers shootes a shot at adventure and breakes down the Draw-bridge of the Castle The Castle Church entred by 〈◊〉 Souldiers The Generals clemency The Prisoners and prizes taken in the Church and Castle The good condition of Wales for the Parliament Carmarthen Towne and Castle taken The Declaration of the County of Carmarthen Monmouth Towne and Castle taken by Colonell Morgan The manner of taking the Castle The prizes taken in the Castle The Parliaments gratitude to God for these great mercies and thanks to Col. Morgan The Letters taken in the Lord Digbyes Coach at Sherburne in Yorkshire read in the Parliament The substance of 3. or 4. of those Letters A brave defeat given to the enemy neer Denbigh Castle who intended to relieve Chester Another brave defeat given to the Enemy at Holt-bridge where Sir William Byren was taken prisoner Another most famous defeat and brave victorie over the Lord Digby and Sir Marmaduke Langdale in their march into Scotland to joyne with Montrosse The Lord Digby crost in his way and forced to goe another way The Burning-Bush unconsumed Isa 25. 9 10 11. Isa 28. 29. Psal 9. 19 20. November 1645. Two excellent Ordinances of Parliament Shelford-house stormed and taken by valiant Major Gen. Poyntz Shelford-house summoned The House taken A sore slaughter made in the House by the Enemies obstinancie Digbyes late scattered forces being rallyed again are againe met with and miserably mangled and brought to nothing Abarashwait a strong Garrison of the enemies in Cardiganshire taken Thanks returned to the Lord on this 5. of November for the happy preservation and Continuation of this present Parliament Thankes and praises also returned to the Lord by order of Parliament for the City of Londons preservation from the plague of Pestilence Worton Garrison surrendred Wiverton Garrison taken Welbeck-house surrendred Bolton Castle in the North surrendred A brave defeat given to the Enemy neer Canon-Froom and a notable Engine taken from them Col. Morgan frights away the Enemy The Engine is left behinde The Engine was called a Sow The description of it Master Rouses Psalmes approved of by the Assembâ—y of Divines A brave defeat given to the Lord Ashton and himself slain therin About forty of the Kings Life Guard surprized by Major Blundell of Reading The just and glorious commemoration of rare and renowned Queen Elizabeth on the 17 of November 1 Sam. 2. 30. Psal 112. 6. A briefe but bad and sad mention of King James his life and death 1 Sam. 2. 30. Prov. 10. 7. King James quite forgotten in the hearts of his people King James and King Charles not true to their Principles King James King Charles and Queene Elizabeth paraleld together in point of Reformation Queen Elizabeths rule King James and King Charles rule Parliaments made the Kings Stauking Horses to get Subsidies Arbitrary Tyranny The Power of godlinesse to be beaten downe Popery or prophanesse to be set up in Germanies blood Rocâ—els and the Isle of Rees blood Irelands blood England and Scotlands blood Other blood not yet revealed The Authors of all this The crafty colour of all