Bar and likewise the Lord Fairfax 1000 l. per Annum The Scots being encouraged by the Votes of the House pretend that Scotland was much exhausted by the late war and that his Majesties presence in Scotland might endanger the peace of that Nation so that it may truly be said of him as the Scripture expresseth of our Lord and Saviour He came to his own and his own received him not At last it was concluded 100000 l. to be told at York sealed and put in boxes The Scots to give Hostages to deliver up Newcastle Tinmouth and all other Garrisons thereabout the other 100000 l when they shall goe on the other side of Tine The other 200000 l. to be secured to be paid out of Delinquents estates They to deliver up the King and depart home and quit all their Garrisons The Assemblyes Confession of Faith was Voted by the House to be printed And likewise an Ordinance past for continuing the Army under Sir Thomas Fairfax for six moneths and the disbanding Major Generall Masseys Brigade The Common Enemy being quite beaten out of the field there hapned sad divisions in the Parliament and Army at home They were distinguished into two severall parties under the title of Presbyterian and Independent the Independent being the most subtill and close Insinuated into the most part of the Army and carried on their designes with greater Vigor and Resolution then the other as the sequell will manifest The King from Newcastle on the 20 of December 1646. sends a Message to both Houses of Parliament at Westminster and to the Commissioners of the Parliament of Scotland for a personall Treaty Charles R. His Majesties thoughts have been alwayes sincerely bent to the peace of his Kingdomes was and will be ever desirous to take all wayes that might most clearely make appeare the candor of his Intentions to his people and to this end could find no better way then to propose a personall and free debate with his two Houses of Parliament upon all the present differences yet finding very much contrary to his expectation that this offer was laid aside His Majesty beat all his thoughts to make his Intentions fully knowne by a particular answer to the Propositions deliver'd to him in the name of both Kingdomes the 24 of July last and that his Majesty plainly saw that whatsoever answer he could give was subject to mis-informations and mis-constructions which upon his own explanation he is confident will give good satisfaction for the setling of a lasting peace to which purpose his Majesty desireth to come to London or any of his Houses thereabouts upon the publick faith and security of his two Houses where by his personall presence he may not onely raise a mutuall confidence betwixt him and his people but also have those doubts cleared and those difficulties explained to him assuring them that he will make no other demands but such as he believes confidently to be just and such as will tend much to the tranquility of the people for except King and people have reciprocall care each of other neither can be happy To conclude it is your King that desires to be heard the which if refused to a subject by a King he would be thought a tyrant for it wherefore his Majesty requests you to accept this offer and that it will be the readiest way to make these Kingdomes a Comfort to their Friends and a Terror to their Enemies The Lords and Commons after some time sent a Letter by Sir Peter Killigrew in answer to the Kings Message Both Houses Voted his Majesty to come to his House at Holmbey in Northampton-shire a House not Inferior to any in the Kingdome They likewise Vote that the Earle of Pembrooke the Earle of Denbigh and the Lord Mountague Sir Walter Earle Sir John Holland Sir James Harrington Sir John Cooks Mr. Crue and Major Generall Browne with Mr Marshall and Mr Caryl to attend them be sent as Commissioners to receive the King at Newcastle and to conduct him to Holmbey They likewise orderd diverse servants to attend him The sixt of February 1646. The Scots according to agreement quit Newcastle and the English possest it they likewise deliver'd up his Majesty to the Commissioners sent by the Parliament his Majesty seemed somewhat unwilling at first to goe to Holmbey rather choosing to goe to Newmarket but after a short time he was satisfied but by no meanes he could be drawne to heare Mr. Marshall or Mr. Caryl preach hoping they will allow him his Conscience Munday the 8 of February his Majesty with a sad and sorrowfull Countenance set forward with the Commissioners attended with 900 Horse and that night came to Durham on thursday to Aukland fryday to Richmond saturday to Rippon and there rested the Sabbath day Munday to Leeds tuesday to Wakefeild wednesday to Rotheram so to Mansfeild thence to Leicester where he stays the next Lords day on Munday He sets forward for Holmbey whither being no sooner come but Proclamation is made that none that had deserted the Parliament and assisted the King should presume to come neare his Majesty Sir Thomas Fairfax came to Leicester with a considerable part of the Army where he was met with the Mayor and Aldermen in state His Majesty sent a Letter to the House to request his Chaplains to be sent to him he named twelve viz. Bishop of London Bishop of Salisbury Bishop of Peterborough Dr Shelden Dr March Dr Sanderson Dr Bayly Dr Hamond Dr Beà le Dr Haywood Dr Fuller Dr Taylor but desired any two hearing no answer he sent a second Letter but still they delayed sending an answer The 25 of February his Majesty at the Commissioners request kept the fast ordred by the Commons it hapning on the same day that he had appointed for the Calamities of Ireland February the 28 his Majesty was pleased to bestow a visit on the Earle of Pembrooke who was at that time dangerously sick His Majesty made a Resolution to keep every fryday a day of solemne fasting and humiliation The Commons Vote and Order what Garrisons shall be slighted and which continued The Parliament Vote likewise the remainder of the Army to disband all but those that were appointed for Ireland and the severall Garrisons Upon which diverse Petitions came in from severall Counties to the Generall not to disband till such time as he had fully settled the Kingdome whereupon immediately the Army had a Randevouz and draw up a Petition to be presented to the Parliament That their arreares might be payd An act of Indempnity passe to secure them that the foote might not be compeld to serve out of the Kingdome that the widdowes and children of such as had lost their lives in the service might be provided for which Petition was presented by Colonell Hamond Colonell Rich and Colonell Ireton The Parliament shewed their dislike of the Petition and Vote that those that shall continue in this disturbing condition shall be proceeded against as
and took notice how they had taken the Government all in pieces how that a skilfull Watch-maker to clense his Watch will take it asunder and when it is put together it will goe better provided no pin be omitted Now I have done this on my part you know what to doe on yours reposing Great Trust and confidence in your affection The passing of this Bill was by wise men thought to be none of the least of his failings Judge Barkly was by the Usher of the black Rod arrested as he sat on the Kings Bench for high treason Thomas Earle of Strafford was next brought upon the stage the Articles exhibited against him were from 14 made 28. and on the 22 of March 1640. his Triall began The place appointed was Westminster-Hall where scaffolds were raised on both sides nine degrees in height The two uppermost for the Scotch Commissioners and the Irish Lords In the midst in a lower ascent sat the Peeres of the Realme a Throne also was erected for the King but he never appear'd publiquely but was every day of the Triall in a Close Gallery to heare and observe the whole proceedings and took notes The Earle of Arundell was Lord High Steward and the Earle of Linsey Lord High Constable The Charge was principally managed by Mr. Glin and Mr. Maynard both Members of the Commons House fifteene dayes together was the Earle arraigned and gave in his answer to every particular Charge The Commons Charge him afresh by Mr. Pim concerning some Notes taken by Secretary Vane which were discover'd by his son of his telling the King be had an Army in Ireland which his Majesty might Imploy to reduce this Kingdome to obedience He is againe call'd to the Barre and Mr. Glin and Mr. Pim endeavour to prove him Guilty by Law They extend his Crimes and make him as Odious as possible they can The Earle moves for Councell which the Peeres could not in reason deny The Commons oppose but after three dayes contest the Peeres prevaile Councell is assign'd him viz. M. Lane The Princes Atturney Mr. Gardner Recorder of London Mr. Loe and Mr. Lightfoote and Saturday the 17 of Aprill was appointed for him and his Councell to appeare where his Councell argued his case in Law that day they adjourn not appointing any time for their next meeting The Commons House Vote him Guilty of high Treason upon the evidence of Sir Henry Vanes notes which Bill of Attainder was sent up to the Lords which in their House was much opposed Some few dayes after Mr. St John The Kings Soliciter was sent by the Commons to the Lords to Justifie the Bill by Law which accordingly was by him performed in Westminster-Hall The Earle being present and The King in his accustomed place The Peeres in their House proceed to Condemnation The King having notice of it on the first of May Calls both Houses together where he declares that he had been present at the whole Triall and that in Conscience he could not condemne him of high Treason He likewise in Vindication of the Earle declares 1. That he never had any Intention to bring over the Irish Army nor ever was advised by any body so to doe 2. That there never was any debate before him either in publick Councell or private Committee of the disloyalty of his English subjects And that though he could not in Conscience condemne him of high Treason yet he could not cleare him of misdemeanours He desired them to consider what a tender Conscience was and that to satisfie his people he would doe much but in this of Conscience neither fear nor any other respect should make him goe against it He desired them to find out some middle way and was of opinion that for misdemeanours he thought him not fit to serve him or the Common-wealth in any place of trust no not a Constable This speech gave much discontent to both Houses Sunday May the second The Prince of Orange was married to the Lady Mary at White Hall with Great solemnity and triumph The next day diverse seditious persons had stirred up the multitude to the number of 5000 or 6000. who in a Tumultuous manner came arm'd to Westminster crying out for Justice to be executed on the Earle committed outrages on divers Lords but by faire promises of my Lord Chamberlain they were appeased They likewise posted at Westminster Hall Gate and the Exchange a Catalogue of those that opposed the Bill of Attainder under the title of Strafordians The fift of May a Motion was made in the House for a loan of 650000 l. to be Lent till it was Levied by Subsidy provided the King would pass a Bill not to adjourne prorogue or dissolve this Parliament without the consent of both Houses upon which Motion a Bill was order'd to be drawne up The Lords by advice of the Judges Vote the Earle Guilty of the 15 and 19 Articles And at a Conference of both Houses it was ordred That some Lords be sent to the King with the two Bills one for executing the Earle The other for continuance of this Parliament which accordingly was done on Saturday and The King promised his answer on Monday All the Sabbath day he was much perplext within himselfe The Clamours of the multitude were great he sends for the Judges to advise summons the Privy Councell and with them spends much time in arguing the Case sends for five Bishops viz. London Lincolne Carlile Durham and Bishop Vsher who for Law wholly remit him to the Judges and for Conscience he having heard the whole proceedings if he conceiv'd him Guiltlesse he ought not to condemne him The Judges in part satisfie the King by declaring that he was Guilty of high Treason The Earle himselfe that day writ a Letter with his own hand To set his Majesties Conscience at Liberty humbly requesting him to prevent such mischiefes as might ensue upon his refusall to pass the Bill and That his consent herein should acquit him to God more then all the world beside Munday the 10th of May his Majesty being wearied with complaints granted a Commission to the Earle of Arundell Lord Privy Seale Lord Chamberlain and others to pass the two Bills The next day being much afflicted in his spirit he wrote to the Lords and sent it by the Prince wherein he requests That although he had past the Bill of Attainder against The Earle yet desir'd to shew mercy by letting that unfortunate man to end his life in Close Imprisonment but if no lesse then life can satisfie my people I must say Fiat Justicia The Postscript was If he must die it were Charity to reprieve him till Saturday The House returnd answer that his request could not possibly be admitted without apparent danger to Him his Wife and Children On Wednesday the 12 of May he was brought from the Tower to the scaffold on Tower-hill attended by Bishop Vsher where he made his last Speech to the people Protesting his Innocency in
forthwith commanded the Prisoner to be carried away who was convey'd to White Hall The Reasons why he could not consent to the Court are as followeth which he Intended to deliver on Munday Jan. 22. in writing but was not permitted Having already made My protestations not only against the illegality of this pretended Court but also that no Earthly power can justly call Me who am your KING in question as a Delinquent I would not any more open My mouth upon this occasion more than to refer My self to what I have spoken were I alone in this case alone concerned But the duty I owe to God in the preservation of the true liberty of My people will not suffer Me at this time to be silent For how can any free-born Subject of England call Life or any thing he possesseth his own if Power without Right daily make new and abrogate the old fundamentall Law of the Land which I now take to be the present case Wherefore when I came hither I expected that you would have endeavoured to have satisfied Me concerning these grounds which hinder Me to answer to your pretended Impeachment but since I see that nothing I can say will move you to it though Negatives are not so naturally proved as Affirmatives yet I will shew you the Reason why I am confident you cannot judge Me nor indeed the meanest Man in England for I will not like you without shewing a reason seek to impose a belief upon My Subjects * Hereabout I was stopt not suffered to speak any more concerning Reasons There is no proceeding just against any Man but what is warranted either by Gods Laws or the municipall Laws of the Country where he lives Now I am most confident that this dayes proceeding cannot be warranted by Gods Law for on the contrary the authority of obedience unto Kings is cleerly warranted and strictly commanded both in the Old and New Testament which if denied I am ready instantly to prove and for the Question now in hand there it is said That where the word of a King is there is power and who may say unto him what doest thou Eccles 8.4 Then for the Laws of this Land I am no lesse confident that no learned Lawyer will affirm that an impeachment can lye against the King they all going in His Name and one of their Maximes is That the King can do no wrong Besides the Law upon which you ground your proceedings must either be old or new if old shew it if new tell what Authority warranted by the fundamentall Laws of the Land hath made it and when But how the House of Commons can erect a Court of Judicature which was never one it self as is well known to all Lawyers I leave to God and the World to judge And it were full as strange that they should pretend to make Laws without King or Lords-House to any that have heard speak of the Laws of England And admitting but not granting that the people of Englands Commission could grant your pretended power I see nothing you can shew for that for certainly you never asked the question of the tenth man of the Kingdome and in this way you manifestly wrong even the poorest ploughman if you demand not his free consent nor can you pretend any colour for this your pretended Commission without the consent at least of the major part of every man in England of whatsoever quality or condition which I am sure you never went about to seek so far are you from having it Thus you see that I speak not for My own right alone as I am your KING but also for the true liberty of all My Subjects which consists not in sharing the power of Government but in living under such Lawes such a Government as may give themselves the best assurance of their lives and propriety of their goods Nor in this must or do I forget the Priviledges of both Houses of Parliament which this dayes proceeding doth not only violate but likewise occasion the greatest breach of their publick Faith that I believe ever was heard of with which I am far from charging the two Houses for all the pretended crimes laid against Me bear date long before this late Treaty at Newport in which I having concluded as much as in Me lay hopefully expecting the two Houses agreement thereunto I was suddenly surprized and hurried from thence as a Prisoner upon which account I am against My will brought hither where since I am come I cannot but to My power defend the ancient Laws and Liberties of this Kingdome together with My own just right Than for any thing I can see the higher House is totally excluded And for the House of Commons it is too well known that the major part of them are detained or deterred from sitting so as if I had no other this were sufficient for Me to protest against the lawfulnesse of your pretended Court. Besides all this the peace of the Kingdome is not the least in My thoughts and what hopes of settlement is there so long as Power reigns without rule of Law changing the whole frame of that Government under which this Kingdome hath flourished for many hundred yeares nor will I say what will fall out in case this lawlesse unjust proceeding against Me do go on and believe it the Commons of England will not thank you for this change for they will remember how happy they have been of late years under the Reign of Q. Elizabeth the King My Father and My Self untill the beginning of these unhappy Troubles and will have cause to doubt that they shall never be so happy under any new And by this time it will be too sensibly evident that the Arms I took up were only to defend the fundamentall Laws of this Kingdome against those who have supposed My power hath totally changed the ancient Government Thus having shewed you briefly the Reasons why I cannot submit to your pretended Authority without violating the trust which I have from God for the welfare and liberty of My People I expect from you either cleer Reasons to convince My judgement shewing Me that I am in an Error and then truly I will readily answer or that you will withdraw your proceedings Sir Hardresse Waller Harrison Deane and Okey Colonels with Lieutenant Generall Ireton are by the Court appointed to consider of time and place for executing the King who resolve that the Open streete before White Hall is a fit place and that the King be there executed the next day being the 30 of January 1648. and that the scaffold he covered with black January 27. the King lay at White Hall the next day being Sunday the Bishop of London preached before him in his Chamber The same day all the Members of the Court kept a fast in the Chappell at White Hall Munday his Children were permitted to visit him at St James's but staid not long Tuesday the 30 of January the
attempt it by Land Captain Burroughs an experienced Commander with a Regiment of foote was ordered for that service who managed it with so much care that a parley was immediately granted the Sea-forces being permitted to goe on shore took such liking to the Spanish wines that they grew disorderd which occasioned the Admirall to prevent further mischiefe to hasten home The Contagion raging in London Michaelmas Terme was ordered at Redding and speciall Instructions were given to the Judges to put in execution the Statutes against Recusants February the 2d 1625. was the day appointed for the Kings Coronation which was performed with all usuall and accustomed solemnity except his passage through London which saved some money the Exchequer being low A Parliament was called and met the 6 of Feb. the Commons began where they left concerning Religion the Lords present the King with a Petion concerning Grievances of their order The King promised speedy redresse Mr Pim of the Commons discovers to the House a Letter and signed to the Lord Mayor of York for reprieving some Priests and Jesuits a Committee is ordered to examine it The King being sensible of the necessities of the Kingdome demands supply and by Sir Richard Weston tells them That the Fleete was returned victualls spent and the men in great necessity for want of pay for which they were ready to mutiny which would be of dangerous consequence and that there were 40 sale ready to goe out which want a present supply that the Army on the Sea-coast wants victualls and clothes with other pressing wants and necessities In stead of a supply Mr Clement Coke a Member of the House of Commons Insolently delivers this It is better to die by a forraine Enemy then to be destroy'd at home The King being advised of it was sensibly troubled at it sends Sir Richard Weston to require satisfaction but they made very slow hast in it which occasion'd him to summon both Houses together and by the Lord Keeper delivers his mind in part to them in a large Speech much in vindication of the Duke which being ended the King spake as followeth I must withall put you in mind of times past you may remember my Father mov'd by your councel and woune by your perswasion brake the Treaties In these perswasions I was your Instrument towards him and I was glad to be Instrumentall in any thing which might please the whole body of the Realme nor was there any one then in greater favour then this man whom you now traduce and now when you find me so far intangled in war that I have no honourable nor safe retreate you make my necessity your priviledge and set what rate you please upon your supplyes a practice not very obliging toward Kings Mr Coke told you it was better to die by a forraine Enemy then to be destroy'd at home Indeed I thinke it is more honourable for a King to be invaded and almost destroy'd by a fortaine Enemy then to be dispised at home The Commons nothing startled at this made a quick reply concerning the Remonstrance the King would have them to dispatch businesse of greater concernment and there would be time enough for that But the Houses thought nothing of more concernment then proceeding against the Duke which gave occasion to the Lord Digby who long'd for nothing more then to exhibit 12 Articles against the Duke The Duke being wary and vigilant had long before provided Articles against Digby though wanting one of the others number which the next day were exhibited in Parliament Many rejoyced at it that by their quarrelling truth was discovered and they were so equally matcht that it was hard to discover which had the better of it But it rested not here for within few dayes the Commons drew up 13 Articles against the Duke presented them to the Lords and sent a message desiring he might be committed Sir Dudly Digs and Sir John Eliot two principall Actors in the Charge were serit to the Tower The House Remonstrate to the King upon which they were discharg'd the Duke having made his defence deliver'd it to the Lords who sequestred him from sitting till the tryall was over The defence was exprest with a great deale of humility and modesty But the Commons having gon so far were resolved to bring it to an upshot drew up a Declaration to back it before the subsidyes at which the King being much Incenst the next day June 15. 1626. he dissolved the House some interceding for some time he replyed No not a minute That very day was the Earle of Bristoll committed to the Tower and Proclamation for burning all Copyes of the Commons Declaration before their dissolution The breaking up of the Parliament was by some charg'd upon the Kings Indulgence toward the Duke The King of France pretending a martiall designe against Italy and the Vatoline craved of King James his ayd at whose request the King promised to lend the Vantgard a gallant Ship of the Navy Royall the Merchants on satisfaction to lend 6 more The Rotchellers being most Hugonets on pretence that the King had not slighted For Lewis according to agreement and taking the advantage of the Advance of the French Army for Italy surprized the Isle of Rhe together with many Ships that were in the Harbour King Lewis understanding of it makes what warlike preparation possibly he could requires ayd of the Dutch King Charles to performe his Fathers promise lends the Ships to King Lewis who together with the French and Dutch Ships fall on Subize the Stasiarch the chiefe Rebell retaketh his strong Holds and chaseth him to the Isle of Oleron King Charles being sensible of his Brothers mis-implying his Ships sent to demand the restitution of them who answered that his subjects detained them contrary to his mind and that he might get them as he could The King not being satisfied with this demand and wifely foreseeing it might occasion a further breach looks home and finds the French who attended the Queene very insolent who Imposed on the Queene a strange kinde of penance viz. That she should goe barefoot from Somerset-House to Tyburn Gallowes to offer up her prayers for Priests and Jesuits there executed for treason For which the King was very much discontented and on the first of January 1626. he came to Somerset-House attended by the Duke and diverse Officers of State all the Queens servants and attendants being the day before summoned to attend he spake as followeth Gentlemen and Ladyes I am driven to that Extremity as that I am personally come to acqucint you that I desire your returne for France true it is the deportment of some amongst you hath been very inoffensive to me but others againe have so dallied with my patience and so highly affronted me that I cannot I will no longer endure it Divers endeavoured to excuse themselves but the King replyed I name none the Queen endeavoured to pacifie the King but it would not
some few Vipers among them that cast this mist of undutifulnesse over most of their eyes yet to say truth there was a good number there that could not be infected with this contagion in so much that some did expresse their duties in speaking which was the Generall fault of the House the last day To conclude as these Vipers must look for their reward of punishment so you my Lords must justly expect from me that favour and protection that a good King oweth to his loving and dutifull subjects And now my Lord Keeper doe what I command you who in the Kings name dissolv'd the Parliament The Parliament being dissolv'd the King sets forth a Declaration of the Causes Grounds and Motives that caused him to dissolve them together with an account of all the Transactions of this and the last Parliament Not long after the King sent for ten of the last Parliament to appeare at the Councell Table viz. Mr. Hollis Sir Miles Hobert Sir John Eliot Sir Peter Hayman Mr. Selden Mr. Stroud Mr. Correton Mr. Valentine Mr. Long Mr. Kirton who having been examin'd by the Lord Treasurer some were sent to the Tower some to the Gate-House others to the Fleete which afterward begot a very high controversie in Law The Queen being affrighted was before her time delivered of a Son who was baptized Charles which lived not above two houres The States of Venice sent over an Ambassadour to mediate for a peace betwixt us the French which was concluded in eight Articles and confirmed with solemn Oaths on both sides Two great Reasons were given for the Kings suddaine consent to a peace the one was the ill successe and bad fortune that alwayes attended his warlike designes the other and maine the sinews of war being dried and shrunk up the Exchequer was very barren Peter Reuben the famous Painter of Antwerp came over into England and made overtures of a peace with Spaine by offering the restitution of the Palatinate then which nothing was more desirable of the King but he had not full power to performe On the 29 of May 1630. the Queen was deliver'd of her second Son who was baptized the 27 of June at St James's with all Princely ceremony and named Charles which caused great rejoycings and acclamations among the people excepting the Puritan party At his birth a Star appeared visibly at noone day just as the King went to St Pauls Church to give thankes where he was presented with these Verses When to Pauls-Cross the Gratefull King draw nere A shining Star did in the Heavens appeare Thou that consults with divine Mysteries Tell me what this bright Comet signifies Now is there borne a valiant Prince i' th West That shall Eclipse the Kingdoms of the East The King being deeply sensible of his brothers miseries and being informed of a Diet at Ratsbone sent Sir Robert Anstruther Ambassadour to the Emperour and Estates in Germany to mediate in his brothers behalfe to which the Emperour return'd Answer that no forraine businesse was to be medled withall at the Diet but as soone as possibly he could he would doe that which might be for his Honour and he hoped to his Majesties content upon which the Ambassadour returnes One Layton a Rigid Presbyter who published a book call'd Zions Plea in which he excited the Parliament and People to kill all the Bishops Very abusive also to the Queene calling her the Daughter of Heth a Canaanite an Idolatresse was sentenced in the Star-Chamber to have his nose slit his eares cropt and stigmatized in the forehead which he for some time prevented by an Escape out of the Fleete but being taken underwent it The Peace betwixt England and Spaine was at last concluded the Articles being the same in effect with those that were betwixt King James and Philip the Third excepting that the King of Spaine should dispose of all his Interest in the Emperour toward the restitution of the Palatinate which was proclaimed Sunday the 27 of November 1630. with Great solemnity Aprill the 25. 1631. Mervin Lord Audley Earle of Castle-Haven was arraigned at the Kings-Bench Bar before Thomas Lord Coventry who for that day was appointed Lord High Treasurer of England he being found Guilty of Rape and Sodomy was by his Peeres condemned and Executed the 14 of May at Tower hill And on the 27 of June following Mr. Broadway and Fitz Patrick servants to and concriminaries with the Lord Audley were tryed at the Kings-Bench-Bar and being found Guilty the one of Rape the other of Sodomy were condemned and on the sixt of July were executed at Tyburne The Queene was the 4th of November 1631. deliver'd of her eldest Daughter who was baptized Mary December 2d 1632. The King was visited with the small Pox but by Gods blessing soone recovered Anno 1632. The Church of St Paul which by the pious zeale of our Auncestors was raysed to that huge bulke that all Christendome was not able to paralell being through age decayed was by the piety of his Majesty the Bishops the Nobility Gentry and Commonalty of the Nation begun to be repaired and a very great progresse was made therein but the unhappy differences of the Nation ensuing caus'd its obstruction Anno 1633. The King having been often solicited to goe into Scotland in order to his personall Coronation on the 13th of May he sets forward with a Princely Traine most of the English Nobility all the Scots that attended here and on the way was very Nobly treated by diverse of the Nobility and Gentry ospecially by the Earle of Newcastle at Welbeck On the 10 of June he came safe to Edenborough where he was Crowned with all outward seeming affection and on the 20 of July return'd safe to the Queen at Greenwich In the beginning of August dyed the Reverend Prelate George Abbot Archbishop of Canterbury William Laud then of London immediately succeeded him October the 13th 1633. the Queen was delivered of her second Son who was baptized James and on the 24 of the same moneth was by Letters pattent created Duke of York The King taking into his Princely care the Irreverend and remisse service of God in the Kingdome of Scotland sent Orders to be observed by the Deane of his Chappell as in England 1 That prayer be said twice a day according to the English forme 2 The Sacrament to be administred once a moneth and to be received Kneeling 3 That he which Officlates on Holy dayes doe it in his Surplice Which though backt with a Letter requiring exact obedience the Deane durst not performe for feare of discontenting the people The King by the Advice of the Bishops and Councell Reviv'd his Fathers Declaration for tolerating Lawfull Sports on the Sunday which gave great distast to the people especially to the puritanicall party On the second of February being Candlemas day at night the King and Queene were entertained at White Hall with a Mask of the Gentlemen of the Inns of Court The
not here for not long after it was observed that a great concourse of people from all parts of that Kingdome came to Edenborough which occasioned the Lords of the Councell to put forth severall Proclamations to prevent the like disorders but they nothing prevailed for the next day the Bishop of Galloway going to the Councell was followed by a great multitude railing and reviling him untill he came to the Councell-doore where he was no sooner enter'd but they beset the House with very great multitudes threatning destruction to all that were within The Councell immediately require ayde of the Provost and other Magistrates of the City who returne answer that they were in the like danger The tumult still increasing they of the City were forc't for the safegard of their own lives to subscribe as followeth 1. To joyne in opposition to the Service-Book and to Petition against it 2. To restore Ramsey and Rollock two silenced Ministers 3. To receive in Mr Henderson formerly silenced Which being signed the Councell thought was a good step to suppresse the tumult but entring into the High street The Lord Treasurer and other Lords were afresh assaulted trodden under-foote and brought back by violence to the Councell-House where being in great danger they require ayde of diverse Noblemen disaffected to the Common-prayer-book who promised what assistance they possibly could and in the end return'd home safe In the afternoon proclamation was made at the crosse of Edenborough for prevention of the like disorders but to smal effect some Citizens demanding the restitution of the Ministers and the performance of what was subscribed Suddenly two petitions were presented against the Common-prayer book and the Composers and Abettors of it which petitions were sent to the King with the narrative of the whole who immediatly sent instructions for adjourning the Tearm to Sterling a strong place and to make proclamation of severe penalties to be inflicted on the breakers and contemners of the peace which was no sooner proclaimed but the Lord Hume Lindsey and divers others protest against it and in contempt of Authority compeld the Heralds to hear the Protest or Covenant read all which being imparted to the King he sends Marquesse Hamilton as high Commissioner to settle peace and a right understanding who dealt treacherously and deceitfully trifling away eleven moneths time having three times returned to and again for England and at last published the Kings gracious Proclamation nulling the Service book and high Commission promising an Assembly to be held at Glascow Novem. 21. 1638. and a Parliament at Edenborough the 15. of May 1639 but this nothing satisfied for the more the King granted the more averse they were During the treaty the Covenanters had provided Officers Armes and what was necessary for a war The General Assembly being met they proceed to declare against the Book of Common prayer which occasioned the Bishops to draw up a protest against their proceedings and in conclusion by the Unanimous consent of all the Councel excepting Argile the Assembly was dissolved Proclamation was made and published throughout the Nation shewing the grounds and reasons of their dissolution which proclamation was opposed by the Covenanters with a protestation to adhere to all their former Covenants to put by all the Bishops Some they excommunicate and not long after totally abolished Episcopacy as being as they pretended inconsistant with the word of God and Lawes of that Nation Which occasioned the Marquesse and Commissioners to returne for England seemingly much discontented In the interim the Covenanters began to raise Armes Levy souldiers Impose taxers upon the people seize some of the Kings Castles raise fortifications and prepare for a war and chose David Lesley an old souldier to be General Toward the latter end of October 1638. came the queen mother into England many of the Common people were troubled at it as being generally by them lookt upon as a forerunner of a greater mischiefe The Scots are very high and insolent assuming all authority and invent new and unheard of Judicatures in defiance to the King and Councel and having cast of Episcopal Jurisdiction declare for the Calvinistical presbyterian Government which for a long time had bin hatching in that Kingdome but could never take head till then The King to suppresse their insolency by the advise of the Bishops prepares an Army which they contributed very largely to and being backed with the assistance of the Nobility and Gentry a considerable force is raised the Earle of Arundell being made Generall The King on the 17 of March the day of his Inauguration advances against the Scots The Scots hearing of the Kings advance march forward under the Conduct of their Generall David Lesley to meet him with Petition in one hand and their Armes in the other and on the 28 of May both Armies came within view The Scots after some time sent to treat about a pacification the King willingly consented to it and for the English were chosen the Earls of Holland Pembroke Salishury and Barkshire and Sir Henry Vane for the Presbyterian Covenanters the Earle of Rothes and Dunferling Lord Louden Douglas Archibald Johnson and Alexander Henderson Who after much Consultation conclude Articles of pacification on both sides which were signed the 18 of June Which Articles were as follow On the Kings part 1. His Majesty to confirme what his Commissioners promised in his name 2. That a Generall Assembly be called to sit at Edenborough August 6. 3. That a Parliament be called and sit at Edenborough the 20 of August 4. That he recall all forces by sea and land and restore all ships arristed and detained since the pretended Assembly at Glascow upon the Covenanters disarming and dishanding of their forces dissolving their tables and restoring to the King all his castles forts and ammunition and releasing all the persons lands and goods then under restraint since the pretended Assembly at Glascow This to be done by declaration On the Covenantes part 1. All the forces of Scotland to be disbanded within forty eight houres after publication of the Kings declaration 2. They to render up after the said publication all Castles Forts Ammunition of all sorts so soone as the King should send to receive them 3. They to hold no meetings treatings or consultations but such as are warranted by act of Parliament 4. They to desist from all fortifications and these to be remitted to the Kings pleasure 5. They to restore to all the Kings subjects their lands liberties houses goods and meanes taken or detained from them since the first of Feb. last Notwithstanding the declaration the Scots are stil averse and draw up a Protestation of sticking close to the late Generall Assembly at Glascow and to their solemne Covenant and perfidiously broke all their Articles of agreement continue their meetings neglect slighting the fortification and continue their officers in pay which with many other insolencies compeld the King to consider of reducing them to
where it was resolv'd that a Parliament should assemble the third of November following and to desire a speedy Treaty with the Scots at Yorke the Scots replied it was no way safe for them by reason that my Lord of Strafford Generall of the Kings Army had proclaimed them traytors in Ireland before the King had done it in England he being an utter Enemy to them and one whom they did Intend to Impeach At last Rippon is the place agreed on The Commissioners on both sides are Chosen The Scots present their demands to this purpose 1. To confider how their Army should be maintain'd till the Treaty be ended and their peace secured 2. If more Commissioners be required they may be convai'd with safety 3. All Intercourse of Letters betwixt them and the Parliament to be convai'd with safety 4. That there may be a free correspondency of Commerce with Newcastle especially for Victualls Which Proposalls at first seem'd very hard to the English who thought it more reason first to provide for their own Army but the Conquering sword decides the Controversie The English must yeeld to the Scots unreasonable demands After many meetings of the Commissioners at last in thirteen Articles they agreed upon a cessation which was signed by the King the 16 of October but the Grand Treaty was by their supplication to the King appointed at London and in the meane time all acts of Hostility to cease At that time the Earle of Montrosse who had acted all along with the Covenanters began to discover the treacherous Designes of the Scots and now plainely saw that they meant nothing lesse then what they pretended viz. The Honour of his Majesty and the preservation of Religion as alwayes the vilest actions are covered with the most specious pretences yet was so wise as not presently to discover himselfe but from time to time advertiz'd his Majesty of the proceedings which Letters by Hambiltons advice were taken out of the Kings pockets transcribed and sent to the Covenanters who dissembled it to the Earle but cast durt in his face raising frivolous aspersions endeavouring to make him odious to the people Great was the Expectation of the whole Kingdome for the happy meeting of the Parliament and every small obstruction was lookt on as a great Impediment many Good men hoped for the redresse of Grievances others waited to spit that venom which they had a long time contracted In November 1640. the Parliament began where the King in a Gracious Speech declared his earnest desire for the happinesse and prosperity of the Kingdome giving an account of the Scotch war and desired them as he promis'd he would to lay aside all prejudice and he would now clearely and freely put himselfe upon the love and affection of his English subjects desiring them to consider the best way for the safety and security of the Kingdome of England and in order to it for satisfaction of their just Grievances wherein he would heartily concur that the world might see his Intentions were to make this a Glorious and flourishing Kingdome freely leaving it to them where to begin and concluding That it should not be his fault if this were not a good and happy Parliament Many Members made long Speeches about Grievances as Sir Ben Ruddier Mr. Grimston Mr. Pim Sir John Clotworthy and others which were backt by diverse other Members Their first businesse was to Vindicate distressed Ministers diverse were inlarged and restored to their former Livings Many Petitions were presented from most parts of the Kingdome for Redresse of Grievances The Lords complaine that the priviledges of their House were broken because the Earle of Warwick and the Lord Brooks had their Studies and Cabinets searched The House discharged Mr. Prin Mr. Burton and Dr Bastwick out of prison and Voted Mr. Burton 6000 l. damage Mr. Prin and Dr Bastwick 5000 l. a piece Mr. Denzill Hollis not many dayes after was sent from the Commons to the Lords to Impeach the Earle of Strafford of High Treason Mr. Pim made a report to the House what Capitall Crimes were objected against him upon which in fourteen Articles he is Charg'd by Mr. Pim. The Earle is forthwith sequestred the House and committed to the Black Rod. On the 18 of December Bishop Wren and Bishop Laud are Voted by the Commons Guilty of High Treason and a Charge was immediately brought in against Bishop Laud upon the Reading of which he is order'd to the Tower but upon his request was respited for two dayes Sir Francis Windibanke principall Secretary of State fled and not long after him my Lord Finsh one that had been very Active for Ship-money which was then Voted Illegal and most of the Judges were Voted Delinquents The Parliament began to strike a terror into all that had any way offended or had been violent in action both in Church and State In December Alderman Penington with a great multitude out of London for now it was customary for Petitioners to come in great numbers Petitioned the House against Episcopall Government and other Ceremonies of the Church of which a Committee was appointed to consider The Armies in the North lay heavy upon the Kingdome which moved the House to allow 100000 l. toward their present pay and the money to be borrowed of the City of London untill the same be raysed by subsidy The King summons both Houses together to the Banqueting House and declares himselfe not satisfied with their slow proceedings and the Great Charge of maintaining two Armyes next of the low condition of his Navies and Forts whereby his enemies are encouraged and his friends disheartned and likewise tooke notice of diverse strange Petitions presented to the House against the Government of the Church he told them he was content with a Reformation not an alteration of Church-Government He tooke notice of a Bill preparing in the House for frequent Parliaments to be elected by the Sheriffes without his consent which he could by no means admit of it being an Inseparable right of his Crowne and did freely confesse that frequent Parliaments were the best means for preserving a right understanding betwixt him and his subjects These were the two principall rocks he would have them avoyd Not long after arrived the Dutch Ambassadour to negotiate in behalfe of a Match betwixt the Prince of Orange and the Lady Mary the Kings eldest daughter which the King thought fit to Impart to the Parliament they for the present doe nothing in it but proceed to the drawing up the Bill for a Trienniall Parliament which being past by both Houses was the 16 of Feb. presented to his Majesty for his consent To whom he declares himself reminding them that this was one of the two rocks which he formerly tould them of and that the Consequence of it was such that never Bill past the House of more favour to the subject then this minding them that by reason of their proceedings he might justly question the doing it
safety of the City and that Major Generall Skippon be appointed Major Generall for the City and all the Forces within the late Lines of Communication with resolutions to adhere to them according to the Covenant Immediately the Houses approved of Major Generall Skippon and orderd him to put the Militia in Execution and the Posts and Chaines to be set up as formerly They likewise Voted all the Members that had not taken the Covenant to take it On the 28 of Aprill the Commons proceeded in setling the Kingdome and Voted that they would endeavour to continue the Government by King Lords and Commons and that they might have Liberty to debate such Votes as had past concerning the King they likewise Voted that the Propositions presented to his Majesty at Hampton Court were subject matter for a settlement The second of May the Generall sent a Letter to the Parliament approving of the Cities choice in Electing Major Generall Skippon Major Generall for the City and finding the City desirous of the Armyes removall from them had sent an order for Colonell Barksted to draw his Regiment out of White Hall and Colonell Rich to draw off his Regiment from the Mews He likewise desir'd them that they would provide a Guard for themselves The Common Councell of the City Order 600 l. per Annum for their Major Generall and a Guard for the Parliament that so the Army might draw off A considerable party of Scots and English surpriz'd Barwick The manner thus The party that came was much about an hundred with swords drawne and pistolls Cockt entred the Towne on the South side as soone as they had past the bridge they drew it up seaze on the Mayor and all other eminent persons Drums were likewise beaten up in Colchester and severall Townes in Suffolke for the service of his Majesty On the third of May Letters were brought by Colonell Marshall to both Houses from the Parliament of Scotland giving them to understand their results concerning England and withall that he had but fifteen dayes time allotted him to stay for an Answer The Heads of the Scots Declaration were these That his Majesty may come to London or some of his Houses neere and that with safety That Reparation be made for his carrying away or satisfaction by punishing them that did it That the Army under the Lord Fairfax be disbanded That Presbytery be setled Sectaries punisht That all Members of the House be restored The same day the Commons Consulted whether they should in the settlement of the Kingdome take in the Scots or not or whether to make addresses to his Majesty againe or not May the fourth came above a thousand Petitioners on Horseback and neere as many more on foote out of Essex to Petition the Parliament for a personall Treaty with the King and to expedite a course for the satisfaction of the Army and their disbanding The Lords returne Answer that they will seriously consider of their Petition and the Commons take notice of their good affection to the Parliament desiring them to returne and to satisfie their Country May the fift The Commons agreed first that they will keep their Covenant and Treaty with the Kingdome of Scotland Secondly That they will be ready to Joyne with the Kingdome of Scotland upon the Propositions agreed to be sent to his Majesty at Hampton Court And that a Letter should be sent to the Parliament of Scotland about the surprize of Barwick by some that were enemies to both Kingdomes They likewise ordered the seven Northerne counties be put into a posture of defence and that the Committee of Darby-House take care to pay them At a Councell of War at Windsor it was orderd that Lieutenant Generall Cromwell goe to Wales to suppresse Poyer and Langhorne others for the security of the North with what strength they could Colonell Horton sent a Letter of the defeate of the Welsh Army consisting of 8000 foote and 400 Horse who being terrified with the news of Lieutenant Generall Cromwells coming Resolv'd to fight Horton which he nothing more desired they fell upon him but he soone Routed them took 1500 Officers 3000 Common Souldiers for which a day of thankesgiving is appointed On the 16 of May diverse hundreds came out of Surrey with a Petition much in the same nature with that of Essex some bickering hapned betwixt the Country-men and Souldiers in so much that from words they came to blowes and some of the Coutry-men were kild The Scots goe on amaine to raise their Army Duke Hamilton a selfish unfortunate man is made Generall Generall Lesley is contented with a pension and willing to be quiet The Earle of Callendar Lieutenant Generall Their Levies goe on amaine they have orderd forty dayes pay at their Generall Randevouz In the meane time Sir Marmaduke Langdale with a small body of Horse goes on the Scotch side of Tweed to Carlile to raise men in expectation to joyne with Sir Philip Musgrave his forces in Cumberland and Westmerland who being well respected the Country flockt to him amaine And now the Kings party began to swell big with expectation not looking upon themselves as vanquished but rather Conquerors The Southerne part of the Kingdome was not free from Insurrections for news was brought to the Parliament that 600 disaffected persons had seazed and secured Rochester possest themselves of the City planted Ordnance on the bridge and compeld all that came to signe their Petition and increased to the number of 10000. The City of London was likewise backward in raising a Guard for the Parliament to relieve the two Regiments which the Generall then wanted In Cornwall likewise were insurrections and diverse disaffected were landed Sir Hardresse Waller sent a party of Horse and foote to subdue them The Commons Vote that if his Majesty will grant the Militia settle Religion and Recall all Proclamations and Declarations they will Treat with him Diverse forces orderd Northward were cald back to suppresse the Kentish Insurrection Chepstow Castle was retaken by Colonell Ewer Sir Thomas Glenham had seazed on Carlile for the King and Sir Marmaduke Langdale was come as far as Appleby with a formidable Army Major General Lambert marcht up and down to prevent him from Injuring the Country The Generall musters his Army at Hounslow heath he sends a party round by Sussex to relieve Dover Castle then besieged by the Kentish men He with the rest marcht into Kent severall small skirmishes hapned betwixt both partyes he comes to Maidstone which he found to be stoutly man'd well provided with Ordinance and barracadoed and the Enemy drawne up into a body it was thought unconvenient to ingage the body and leave the Towne unattempted in which were the most resolute persons A party of old Souldiers were drawne out to face the Towne whilst the body was drawne up ready to receive the Enemy The old Souldiers assaulted the Towne by seven at night where they met with men of like Resolution there being
God that you doe take those courses that are best for the good of the Kingdom and your own Salvations Bishop of London Will your Majesty though it be very well known what your Majesties affections are to Religion yet because it may be expected that You should say somewhat declare your self for the Worlds satisfaction in that point KING I thank you very heartily my Lord for that I had almost forgotten it In troth Sirs My Conscience in Religion I think is very well known to all the World and therefore I declare before you all That I die a Christian according to the profession of the Church of England as I found it left to Me by My Father and this honest * Pointing to the Bishop man I think will witnesse it Then turning to the Officers He said Sirs excuse Me for this same I have a good cause and I have a gracious God I will say no more Bishop of London There is but one Stage more This Stage is turbulent and troublesome it is a short one But You may consider it will soon carry You from Earth to Heaven and there You shall finde a great deal of cordial joy and comfort KING I goe from a corruptible to an incorruptible Crown where no disturbance can be no disturbance in the World The Bishop You are exchanged from a temporal to an eternal Crown a good exchange Then the King after some short and servent ejaculations in private with hands and eyes lift up to Heaven immediately stooping down laid His neck upon the Block And then the Executioner appointed to give the fatal blow putting His hair under His Cap the King said Stay for the signe And after a very little pause stretching forth His hands the Executioner at one blow severed His Head from His Body and he changed a troublesome life for a quiet death His body was put in a Coffin covered with black Velvet and from thence carried to his House at St. James's where it was put in a Coffin of Lead laid there to be seen by the people On Wednesday the 7th of Feb. his Corpses was delivered to two of his servants to be buried at Windsor whether the next day The Duke of Richmond the Marquess of Hartford the Earls of Lindsey and Southampton together with Dr. Juxon and divers others repaired where with much difficulty they finde a Vault in St. Georges Chappell where King Henry the Eighth was formerly buried which being prepared a small piece of Lead some two foote long and two inches broad was provided on which was inscribed King CHARLES 1648. which was sawdred to the brest of the Corpse all things being in readinesse the Corpse was brought to the Vault by the Souldiers of the Garrison over which was a black Velvet Hearse-Cloth which was supported by foure Lords the Bishop of London stood weeping by then was it deposited in silence and sorrow the Hearse-Cloth being cast in after it FINIS A Table of the principall things contained in this BOOK A. BIsnop Andrews death 15 Sir Robert Anstruther sent Ambassadour into Germany 25 Lord Audly Arraigned and condemn'd 26 Bishop Abbots death 27 Articles of the Church consented to in ireland 30 Articles betwixt the Scots and English 38 Armes atrive from Holland for the King 69 Armyes Declaration 133 Their second Declaration 167. Their reasons for secluding the Members 169 Petition for Justice on the Capitall offenders ibid B. Buckingham accus'd of Treasen by Gondamore 4. Sent into Holland 10. accuses Digly 12. His Voyage for Reliefe of Rochell 16. 1s stabd by Felton 19. Interd at Westminster 20 Judge Barkleys aresting in the Kings Bench. 47 Bucking ham shire Petition for Mr. Hamden 60 Blake executed for treachery 79 Bransord fight 80 Browns successes at Abbington 97 Brereton Victorious 105 Barwick surprized 142. C. King Charles borne 1. Created Duke of York ib. Goes into Spaine 2. Arrives safe home 3. Proclaimed King of Great Brittaine 6. Espousd to Henneretta Maria. 7. Summons a Parliament ibid. His Speech 8. Adjournes the Parliament to Oxford 9. In want ibid. And dessolves them 10. His Coronation 11. Calls a second Parliament ibid. His Speech in the House 12. Dissolves the Parliament 13. Assists the French 14. His speech to the Queens attendants ibid. Summons a third Parliament 17. Grants the Petition of Right 19. Speech in the Lords House 23. Dissolves the Parliament 24. Visited with the small Pox 27. Goes into Scotland ibid. His care for the service of God in Scotland 28. Sends an Army to suppresse the Scots 36. Summons a fourth Parliament 39. He addresses himself to the City for money 41. Rayses a second Army against the Scots ibid Speech to the long Parliament 44. Speech in the Banqueting House 46. He breaks the Dutch match to them 47. Passeth the Bill for Trieniall Parliaments ibid. Vindicates the Earl of Strafford 49. Goes into Scotland 54. Appoints Essex Generall ib. Returnes from Scotland 55. Charges the five Members with high treason 57. Goes to the House to demand them 59. Goes to Hampton Court 61. Thence to Dover 62. Comes back to Greenwich thence to Theobalds 62. Sends to the House of his Intentions for Ireland 64. Demands Hull 65. Speech to the Gentry of Yorkshire ibid. Sends out Commissions of Array 69. His speech to the Nobility and Gentry at York 70. Besieges Hull ib. Hepublishes his Grand Declaration at York 72. Sets up his Standard 73. Sends a Message from Nottingham ibid. Sets up a Mint at Shrewsbury 75. Summons Glocester 86. Summons a Parliament at Oxford 90. Receives the Sacrament at Oxford 91. Sends a Message for peace 93. Dissolves the Parliament at Oxford 94. Flies to Leicester 104. Sends Propositions for peace 109. Flies disguisd to the Scots Army 110. Sends a Message from Newcastle 114. Comes to Holmbey 116. Desires to come to London 118. comes to Newmarket 119. Removd to Causum 120. Thence to Woborne 121. Removd to Hampton Court 122. Flies to the Isle of Wight 126. his Letter to the House 150. Sent a Letter to the Generall 133. Letter to the Lords 134. He earnestly presses a personall Treaty 135. is discontented 139. sends an answer to the Parliaments Message 150. sends a Message to the House 157 conveyd to Hurst Castle 168 brought to Windsor 170. brought to St. James's 171 His first dayes Triall 172 second dayes Triall 179 third dayes Triall 181. last dayes Triall 183. sentence 188. his reasons against the Court 189. Committee appointed to consider of Execution 191. Jan. 30. 1648. appointed for his execution 193. His speech on the scaffold 194. He 's executed 198. Inter'd at Windsor 199 Cades Voyage 10 Mr. Cooks Insolent speech in the House 11 Mr. Crew sent to the Tower 40 County of York petition the King 64 City of London set up Chaines and Posts 76. Petition the Parliament 141 Cirencester for the Parliam 81 Covenant Taken throughout the Kingdome 87 Countesse of Darby holds out Latham House 91 Coruish Hugg 92 Lieutenant
then close besieged by the Kings Forces ballanc't the scale and at a Councell of War it was resolved to relieve Taunton The King at that time was in a condition to take the field and had sent severall Dispatches to that purpose Sir Thomas Fairfax on the first of May advances with the whole Army first to Blauford then to Salisbury excepting that party of Horse and Dragoones Commanded by Lieutenant Generall Cromwell and foure Regiments of foote which were ordered to joyn with him The King taking the advantage of the Armies march into the West draws forth his Artillery from Oxford and began to gather into a considerable Body Lieutenant Generall Cromwell and Browne were orderd to attend him but being too few in number to engage The Generall by the Committee of both Kingdomes was commanded back all but a Brigade for the Reliefe of Taunton which were neer 5000 foote and 2000 horse who march without any impediment till they came within ten miles of Taunton where they discharged ten pieces of Ordinance to give the Enemy notice of their arrivall The Enemy being inform'd that the Generall and the whole Army were within ten miles prepare to draw off upon which Blake made a sally out and fell upon the reare kild and took diverse Colonel Wildon sends a party of Horse who approach to the walls for the Enemy had quit it The viewing the Towne was one of the saddest spectacles that ever eyes beheld it being almost consum'd by fire and the people almost starv'd The Generall and most of the Army being come back to Newbery were met with an order of the Committee of both Kingdomes immediately to lay close siege to Oxford Cromwell and Browne that attended the King were commanded back to assist in the work and after fifteen dayes surrounding the Towne it was by a Councell of War thought altogether Inconvenient to continue the siege the Kings Army unattempted in the field which the Generall presents to the Committee The King Horses most of his foote and moves up and downe and taking the Advantage of the Scots advance toward Westmorland and after he had relieved Chester comes on and faces Leicester Prince Rupert sent a Summons to the Towne offering quarter to the Souldiers Townsmen and Countrymen The Committee and Officers within desire till next morning to returne their answer The Trumpeter no sooner comes to the Kings Army but immediately a Drum is sent to require an answer in a quarter of an houre which while they were debating in the Towne the Kings Canons from the battery began to play and all were commanded to their Charge in order to a storme the Contest continued a day and a night with a great deale of Resolution on both sides In some breaches they came to push of Pike On Saturday at three of the Clock they enterd the Towne and in hot blood many were put to the sword some plunderd On the other side Colonel Massey with 2000 Horse and foote having laine two dayes before Evisham storm'd the Towne and took it with the Governour and twenty Officers 500 foote 120 Horse with all the Armes and Ammunition The Commons order six hundred men to be sent for the security of Portsmouth There came news from the West that Generall Goring Sir Ralph Hopton and Sir Richard Greenvill had joyned together and falne upon that party that had relieved Taunton and forc't them to retire to Taunton in great disorder Upon the news of the taking of Leicester the Commons order that the straightning of Oxford be turned to a close siege Lieutenant Generall Cromwell was orderd toward Ely to prevent the Kings breaking into the associated Counties they like vise order the Earle of Leven to advance with the Scots Army and to joyne with Colonel Vermuden to prevent the Kings going Northward But upon second thoughts the Commons order the Generall to raise the siege at Oxford and to take care to preserve the associated Counties and fight the King The Generall on his removall viewed Bostoll House and ordred a party to besiege it He likewise sent a party of Horse and foote Commanded by Colonel Rainsborough to summon Gaunt House The Governour upon the first summons return'd answer that he liked not Windebanks Law but the next day Rainsborough having provided all things ready for a storme the Governour caused a parly to be beaten and surrenderd upon Quarter Lieutenant Generall Cromwell moving up and downe in Cambridge-shire Huntington and Ely managed his businesse with so much discretion as that he was able to have raised an Army of 12000 men to assist him in following the King But leaving those Counties in a posture of defence he marches toward the Generall with 600 Horse and Dragoones The King sends a party of Horse and faces Northampton he himselfe being at Harborough with the maine Body The King sends 1200 Horse with good store of Cattell and sheepe to Oxford which immediately returne Sir Thomas Fairfax came with the Army to Wotton thence to Glastenborough within five miles of Burrough hill where the Kings Forces were all drawne up in a readinesse The Generall for the Parliament advances from Gilling to Naseby endeavouring to ingage the Enemy the scouts discover that they were at Harborough and great bodyes of Horse appeared on the hills nigh Harborough he orders a Randevouz of the Army neere Naseby and to put them in such a posture that should the King advance toward them they might having the advantage of ground receive him By this time the Kings Army advances endeavouring to get the winde which occasioned Sir Thomas Fairfax to draw off the Army into a large fallow field toward the Northwest of Naseby which was defended on the right hand with a Hedge a place very convenient for a battell January 13. 1645. the King draws off from Burrough hill the scouts bringing Intelligence of the Parliaments Army approaching took up their quarters in Naseby Ireton with a flying party of Horse fell upon the flanke of the Enemy kild some and took diverse prisoners which so allarum'd the King that he posts to Harborough for better security summons a Councell of War and considerd that should they draw off and march to Leicester if the reare were ingaged the whole Army might be in danger and they could with no safety march with the Van till the Reare was secured whereupon it was resolv'd to give battell which was the most fatall and destructive to the King that ever hapned since the first beginning of the quarrell yet many of the principall Officers endeavoured to perswade to avoyd fighting The King Commanded the maine body The Right wing was Commanded by Prince Rupert and Prince Maurice The Left by Sir Marmaduke Langdale The Right Hand Reserve by the Earle of Lindsey and Sir Jacob Astley The Left by the Lord Bards and Sir George Lisle Sir Thomas Fairfax Commanded the maine Body Lieutenant Generall Cromwell the Right Wing Ireton the Left Prince Rupert falls in on the
Left wing Routs them pursues them to Naseby Towne and being too eager of the plunder lost the King the day for in his absence Lieutenant Generall Cromwell Charges furiously on the Kings Left Wing and forc't them to retire from the body Sir Thomas Fairfax with the maine body advances falls on the Kings body who received them with much Valour and courage Great Rallyings there was on both sides and for a long time the battell was fought with Equall Courage but it pleased God to give the Victory to the Parliaments Forces for upon their Rallying they recovered Courage and Charged with greater fury forcing the Kings Forces to fly and had the pursuite of them within two miles of Leicester which is neere fourteen miles They left behind them all their traine of Artillery bag and baggage many were slaine 4000 taken prisoners 200 Wagons 3000 Horse many Officers of note On the Parliaments side about 1000 Officers and Common Souldiers diverse Officers wounded Great were the successes of the Parliament in diverse places In the field was taken the Kings Cabinet of Letters which were sent up to the Parliament and by them published The Marquesse of Winchester held out Basing House for the King a long time after it was besieged The Parliaments Forces despairing of gaining it drew off This was the last pitcht Battell that ever the King fought The King with some forces fled to Leicester and not conceiving himselfe safe by reason of the Parliaments forces advance goes to Ashbe de la Zouch where after he had rested himselfe a small time in the dead of the night went to Litchfield and so into Wales Sir Marmaduke Langdale fled the same night to New-wark Munday the 16 of June the Parliaments Generall and Army comes before Leicester The Generall summons the Governour immediately to deliver the Towne with all the Armes and Ammunition the Lord Hastings being Governour returnes answer that he would not deliver it but hold it out to the last man which occasioned the Generall to Issue out Warrants to summon the Country to bring in Ladders and things necessary for a storme And on the 17 of June they began to storme the Governour perceiving the danger sends a Trumpet to desire a parly for the delivery of the Towne which was concluded in then Articles and the next day the Towne was delivered up In it was 14 piece of Ordinance 30 Colours 2000 Armes 500 Horse with diverse other necessaries for warre The King returnes for Hereford with 2000 foote that Major Generall Gerhard had raised in Wales for him and posts over Severne toward Bristoll Prince Rupert following him with 3000 Horse Sir William Brereton in Shropshire sell on a party of the Kings routed them and took 300 prisoners Not long after Sir Thomas Glenham Governour of Carlile for the King having been a considerable time besieg'd and having no hopes of Reliefe delivers up the Towne on honourable Conditions Sir Thomas Fairfax marches with the best part of the Army to the Reliefe of Taunton then besieged by Goring At that time there was in the West a multitude of Rude people called Clubmen who declaring for the King did great mischiefe to diverse of the Parliaments Garrisons they boldly Capitulate with Sir Thomas Fairfax at Dorchester and desire safe passage for such as they should appoint to goe both to the King and Parliament in order to an Accommodation Sir Thomas civilly sends them an answer which not answering their expectation and fearing to oppose so potent an Army they draw off in discontent not without doing some mischiefe to the Governour of Linne then for the Parliament Upon the news of Sir Thomas Fairfax his arrivall within a dayes march of Taunton Goring draws off his forces the besieged sally out and forced the reare to retreate in disorder upon the Enemies flight the Army advances falls upon the Reare and took diverse prisoners They still pursuing at last engaged Goring at Langport whom they worsted and put to flight having taken diverse Colours some Armes and Ammunition The Generall returnes with the Army and resolves to besiege Bridgewater and having staid some time till supplyes came he closely begirts the Towne summons the Governour who returnes a resolute answer being every way well fortified and provided The Generall resolves to storme it on Munday the 22 of July 1645. Which accordingly was performed with much Resolution but the enemy within being nothing daunted fling Granadoes and other combustible stuffe to the prejudice of the besiegers The Generall the next day sends a Message telling them that their deniall had wrought in him no thoughts of Compassion but onely to women and children who might otherwise suffer by the Governours obstinacy and accordingly diverse Ladyes and Gentlewomen and Children came out of the Towne The Generall assaults them againe and at last compells them to a surrender they all to submit themselves prisoners and the Towne to be preserved from plunder which accordingly was performed Immediately after Pomfret and Scarborough Castles were surrendred no Reliefe being expected Toward the latter end of July the Generall summon'd Bath which was accordingly surrendred In August 1645. Lieutenant Generall Cromwell falls on the Club-men who at that time were very high and insolent kills diverse and took above 300 prisoners The Generall summons Sherburne Castle of which Sir Lewis Dives was Governour who return'd a resolute answer but the next day was taken by storme The Generall immediately resolves to besiege Bristoll which was govern'd by Prince Rupert Orders were sent for Ships to begirt it by Sea he summons the Governour who refusing to surrender immediately he surrounds it they within sally out six or seven times not without losse on both sides at last it was agreed to send a positive summons and upon refusall to storme it The Prince requires leave to know the Kings minde but the Generall would by no meanes permit it Upon the Princes refusall at a Councell of War it was resolv'd to storme it which accordingly was with much Courage performed the Towne was fired in many places which moved the Prince to request a parly which the Generall consented too on condition that care should be taken to quench the fire and accordingly by Articles of agreement the 11 of September 1645. The City with all the Armes Ammunition was deliver'd up The Prince with the rest immediately march to Oxford During the time of Bristolls siege news was brought of the severall successes of Montrosse in Scotland against the Covenanters which moved the Generall Lieutenant Generall and all the Colonels of the Regiments to subscribe a Letter to General Leaven of the Condition of the Kingdome and their willingnesse to spare forces for their assistance All this while the King moves up and downe sometimes in Wales sometimes in one County sometimes in another still hearing the mishaps and disasters hapning on the neck one of another so that all his hopes were almost frustrate Lieutenant General Cromwell