38 peices of Ordnance 50 barrels of powder 500 Muskets a great number of Pikes and great store of shot and other sorts of provision And heerin now in breif wee may see the great goodnesse of God thus admirably completing our comforts to us by severall most wise providentiall degrees for though the Town of Newcastle was taken and in our full possession yet it was of little use unto us till the Castle therein was surrendred and though both this Town and Castle were taken yet they were not of any considerable and desired use for publick Trade by shipping till Tinmouth castle was surrendred which commands the entâ—ance into that River so as no Ships can passe it but with great hazzard but now Gods name bee ever glorified all letâ— and obstructions to a free Trade into that Town are quite taken away and any ships may passe and repasse most freely and fearlesly and the Ordinance of Parliament formerly inhibiting all commerce and Trading with Newcastle whiles it was in the power of the Royalists was shortly after by Both Houses of Parliament repealed and full power and licence now granted of free Trading thither againe by authority of Parliament And now upon the 31 of this instant October being the last wednesday of this Moneth wee had the Parliamentary monethly Fast solemnized before and close upon which the Lord did most graciously give us both admirable preventions of our prayers and singular returns of them after prayers even all along save only in that unhappy self-failing of our forces at Dunnington-castles and Bazing-houses releif by our own undoubted remissenesse if not worse whereby I say our said day of Monethly humiliation was and that most deservedly turned as much into a day of gratulation rejoycing and praising the Lord our God as of Fasting and Praying to God both for that famous Victory and â—urrender of the Town of Newcastle to our loyall and lowing brethren of Scotland which as learned reverend and truely religious Mr. Case justly said wee may most worthily baptize and Christen with the name of Gâ—d a Multitude for after it wee received a multitude of Mercies from the bountifull hands of our good God for presently upon that surrender fell out all the succeeding memorable mercies which have been in this moneths passages forementioned as namely the last famous Victory or defeat given to our Enemies the Kings Forces at Newberry the taking of the Castle in Newcastle-Town and of Tinmouth-castle shortly after the happy and remarkable unbloody surrender of the Town of Leverpool in Lancashire and the famous defeat given to the Newark forces by our most valiant and vigilant Forces of Leicester and Lincolnshire all fore-specified Heer therefore good Reader I shall desire thee together with mee to make a short stand and stay to see and admire this Moneths most admirable wonder also of the Burning-Bush not only not Consumed but even in the midst of most furious flames and conflagrations as it were growing green still and waxing more and more fair and flourishing Witnesse I say most conspicuously and undeniably that further discovery of that desperate and dangerous plot and designe closly and craftily carryed on for our inevitable ruine and destruction had it taken on our Army in Cornwall in the West but marveilously prevented by Gods good providence infusing such courage and faithfulnesse into the hearts of our Commanders and Souldiers Witnesse also the most successefull proceedings of the affaires of our best beloved brethren in the kingdome of Scotland together with the many mischeivous Array-men surprised in the Northern parts of our kingdom by the well-affected-people of those parts and putting them into the power and custody of renowned Generall Lesley Also the taking of Radcastle in Northwales by Sir Thomas Middleton together with the Parliaments most pious and prudent completing and publishing of that blessed Ordinance for Ordination of Ministers in and about London in a most pious and Apostolicall way and order Witnesse also that brave and most famous defeat given to the Enemies by that most renowned and ever to bee honoured and loved Commander Colonell Massie at Beechley where the said brave Colonell was admirably preserved both from death and danger Together with the surprisall of the Irish ship at White-haven in Cumberland the brave prize taken by renowned Colonell Sydenâ—am Governour of Pool in the West and another also by most valiant and loyall Colonell Lambert in the North. And witnesse Gods speciall providence and particular love and regard of the good not only of this Church and State in generall but also of his peculiar treasure and holy hidden ones in speciall viz. in the redemption and deliverance from a long and tedious captivity in the North of one of his most faithfull servants and sufferers for his Truth and Gospel namely Dr. John Bastwick lately then a prisoner in Knaresborough castle in Yorkshire Together with the farther brave performances of noble and renowned Sir Thomas Middleton in North-wales And all the rest of the most remarkable and memorable Victories I say of our most worthily ever to bee honored and beloved brethren the Scots at Newcastle and the other most memorable successes of our Armies as is fore-mentioned all which being put together and seriously considered doe abundantly make good the truth of this our Nations wonder in reference unto Moses his great wonder of his Burning-Bush not consumed and therefore gives us just occasion in admiration and contemplation thereof to break forth into a just ingenuous confession of the faithfulnesse of Gods promise to his Church and children by the Prophet Isaiah by whom the Lord tells his people Behold I have created the Smith that bloweth the coaleâ— in the fire and that bringeth forth an instrument for his work and I have created the waster to destroy But no weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper and every tongue that shall rise against thee in judgement thou shalt condemn And as the Lord sayes in the 15 verse of this foresaid Chapter Behold they shall surely gather together but not by mee Whosoever therefore shall gather together against thee shall fall for thy sake And thus hath the Lord most faithfully done for us in these our dayes even for us as sinfull and undeserving a people as were his Israelites of old And therefore let us in holy exultation with the pious Prophet David sing and say to the Lords everlasting praise and glory O who is God save only the Lord or who is a rock save our God The Lord liveth and blessed bee our rock and let the God of our Salvation bee exalted and praised for ever But now to proceed and goe forward to the farther progresse and prosecution of our just admiration of this our Nationall wonder in the next succeeding Moneth of November 1644. ANd first I shall begin with a brave exploit performed by the forces of that valiant Patriot
provisions and following the Enemy beat them all out of the Town and so wee are now Masters both of the Town and Castle Of the enemy were slain in the place 85 besides those that were slain before the Castle 100 prisoners were taken and their whole Forces routed and I beleive in their flight they never looked behinde them untill they came to Castle Emlyne which is six miles from Cardigan In the Town wee also took 250 Armes I have not heard since these unhappy differences began in this Kingdom that the hand of the Almighty hath more visibly appeared in giving so great victories to so small a handfull than hath been manifested in these parts and therfore to his own power wee attribute all the praise and glory But to proceed About the 10 of this instant January the proud and most pestilently pernicious Arch-Prelate of Canterbury William Laud that Arch Traytor to the Church and State to God and all good men yea that Arch Incendiary together with his brother Strafford of 3 Kingdomes after a long and most full and fair tryall as ever to bee honoured Mr. William Prynn hath in his famous History of this Arch Prelates Life and â—â—eath and Tryall most abundantly cleared to all the world being most justly and worthily condemned by the most honourable House of Peeres to bee hanged drawn and quartered as a Traytor indeed yet upon his Petition that kinde of death was altered and hee beheaded as the rest of his Trayterous companions upon the Towre-Hill Of whom all I will say at this time having said so much already of him and the rest of his wretched rabble of Traytors in my Second Part of The Looking-Glasse for Malignants shall bee onely this That his constant pride and impudence considered wherwith hee swelled in his whole life and wherewith hee jetted even to the Scaffold to his deaths Block manifested in his pert yea and malepert gesture spruce and neat apparell unparallelled bold countenance and confidence in his whole carriage even to his very minute of Death his most audacious and hypocriticall Preaching or most properly prating for almost an houre together before his death in most egregiously jugling and justifying his whole life and all his most accursed and abominable works of darknesse and that to the very death O nefanda inaudita audacia execrabilis durities all which I say most seriously and sadly considered O how justly and most properly applyable to this wretohed Arch Prelate is that most terrible and frightfull judgement of the Lord mentioned by the Prophet Make the heart of this man fat and make his eares heavy and shut his eyes lest hee see with his eyes and bear with his eares and understand with his heart and should convert and bee healed This unquestionably was this most miserable mans condition for a most proud and hypocriticall crafty Tyrant and persecutor of Gods Saints hee lived and a most obdurate and marble-hearted Atheist hee also impudently impenitently dyed Giving us all over the whole Kingdom yea all over the 3 whole Kingdoms great just cause heartily to blesse the Lord for his righteousnesse and justice heerin happily fulfilling that of wise King Solomon or rather of the Lord by him When the wicked perish there is shouting and joy among the people And truely so it justly was with us at this wicked mans death For truely as Queen Elizabeth once said when shee was freed from distresse by Queen Maries death and the persecuting Popish Bishops clapt up in prison O said shee it is merry with Lambs when Wolves are shut up so say I it was happy for us poore Lambs when this Wolf was thus taken from us For truely ever since this his just execution what ever the Court-Cabinet Prognosticators falsly affirmed God hath admirably blessed our Armies and the whole work of intended Reformation But now to goe on About the 14 of this instant wee were credibly assured by Letters to the Committee of both Kingdoms as also Major Generall Browns own Letter to his Excellency Robert Earl of Essex then Lord Generall of a most brave victory and famous defeat obtained over and given to our Enemies the Kings forces at Abbington by the said renowned and most active and loyall Major Generall the particulars whereof I have thought fit to give the Reader for his fuller satisfaction and content in a Letter writen by religious Colonell Harsnet to his worthy Friend Captain Jones in London which was as followeth Sir I have had a longing desire to requite your love in giving mee a relation of that famous fight at Alford but never till now could meet with an opportunity But something the Lord hath now I say vouchsafed worthy the relation to our worthy Friends at London I came on Friday night from Henly with our Company that came with us from London Some others of our Garrison whom wee found at Reading after midnight past with us very quietly by Walling ford and so about 3 of the clock came safe to Abbington seeing none in our way to trouble us but having been not above 3 houres there wee had an allarm from the same way wee came which was about half a mile from us in Oxfordshire called Cullumbridge which the Enemy possest themselves of before wee had time to draw forth any party to charge them There were parties from Oxon and from Wallingford Prince Rupert Commanding in cheif with whom was his brother Prince Maurice Sir Henry Gage Governour of Oxford and many other great Commanders Their forces were supposed to bee in all about 3000 Horse and foot with 2 peices of Ordnance Behinde the foresaid Bridge was a great hill with many hedges which they had lined with Musketteers to the great annoyance of our men But our noble Major Generall upon hearing of the allarm Commanded our men to Armes which was cheerfully obeyed and by parties were drawn along the Cawsie that led from the Town to the Bridge Medows overflowed with water being on both sides and comming to charge them at the Bridge the Enemy stoutly opposed us but to their losse whereupon wee had 2 Drakes commanded thither and our men cheerfully wading into the water on both sides did so pelt them while the Drakes plaid upon the Bridge that after 4 houres fight wee drove them from the Bridge and the Hedges and forced them to a retreat and wee having got the Bridge which being of Stone the Enemy had partly broken down yet our men got over Commanded by Major Bradberry Major to Colonell Sparrows Regiment of Essex at the entring over which Bridge hee was slain but in this hot bickering wee lost not above 8 or 10 men at the most and so the Enemy was forced to a shamefull retreat The fight began betimes in the morning at which instant there was a party of 70 or 80 horse from Farrington to set upon our horse quartered at a Village called
Gentlemen of this Committee with the horse entred and immediately became Masters of the Town and within 4 houres after the Castle was surrendred upon quarter for all but the Irish to march to Ludlow and then the Enemy delivered up a strong Out-work in Frankwell upon bare quarter for their lives By 12 of the clock at noon wee became absolute Masters of the Castle and Town wherein were taken many considerable prisoners good store of Ammunition and great store of Ordnance The Committee of Wem took as great care as possibly could bee that the well-affected in the Town might not in any measure suffer or bee plundered and therefore the Officers kept off the Souldiers from plundering the Town that so the Committee might see right down and none but Malignants only to suffer The Committee gave present notice hereof to Sir William Brereton certifying him what they had done who thereupon took care for forces to lye neer them to releive Colonell Mitton if occasion should bee The whole Country I mean especially the well-affected party were exceeding glad of this and desired that Colonell Mitton might bee Governour thereof being well known unto them all to bee a most honest cordiall and well-affected Gentleman and of singular and true integrity to the Parliaments Cause whereof by many reall experiments they had strong and indubitable ground and knowledge Our horse the day before had a long and weary march they having been sent to surprize Sir William and Sir Thomas Whitmore a Parliament man whereof more immediately Sir we shall not trouble you any further but to subscribe our selves Your most humble Servants A. Lloyd Sam. Moore Tho. Hunt Ro. Clives Rob. Cariton Leigh Owen Salop Feb. 24. 1644. A List of the prisoners taken in Salop as aforesaid Sir Michael Ernley Knight and his Brother Sir Rich. Lee Baronet Sir Thomas Harris Baronet Sir Henry Frederick-Thyn Baronet Sir William Owen Knight Sir John Wilde senior Knight Sir John Wilde junior Knight Sir Thomas Lister Knight Together with 11 Esquires 2 Leivtenant Colonels one Major 2 Doctors 8 Captains 15 Gentlemen 3 Ancients 4 Sargeants 9 or 10 other Officers and about 50 other prisoners wherof some were Irish One Captain and 5 others were slain Wee also took 15 peices of Ordnance many hundreds of Armes divers barrels of powder All Prince Maurice his Magazine The Town the Castle and all the Works divers Carriages bagge and baggage of the Princes Besides many other prisoners and purchases not discovered when this List was gathered Wee lost only 2 men And was not this a most rare and remarkable mercy and famous Victory indeed and never to bee obliterated out of the Tables of eternall memory and gratitude As accordingly and most worthily it was shortly after Ordered by the Parliament that a Solemn day of publike Thanksgiving to God should bee kept And 20 li. was given to the first messenger that brought this most welcome newes and 10 li. to the second And heer I must desire the Reader to take notice of the most wise and righteous disposall of this great mercy unto us by the great and glorious Moderatour of all things in Heaven and Earth Viz. That this so rare and famous defeat given to the impious Enemies of Gods Cause and Truth was upon the very same day that the Mock-Treaty or rather Plot-Treaty at Vxbridge was happily dissolved namely Saturday Feb. 22. 1645. A passage of singular divine providence and not slightly to be pretermitted of us But now to goe on Much also about the foresaid time it was most certainly informed that a party of Sir William Breretons forces as was forementioned under the command of Sir John Price a worthy Member of the House of Commons had taken Apsley House in Shropshire and therein Sir William Whitmore and Sir Thomas his Son Sir Fra. Oately Mr. Owen Mr. Fowler Mr. Griffith and divers other Gentlemen of quality and about 60 Common Souldiers as they were sitting upon a Commission of Array to raise forces for Prince Maurice and they pursued the said Prince also who still avoided Sir William and at last got over Severn toward Chester on the Welsh side And from Ailsbury wee had also about the same time certain intelligence that that brave Commander Colonell Craford had performed a brave peice of service about Roesham 3 or 4 miles from Oxford where hee fell upon a party of the Enemy and took 40 Horse with their Riders and Armes among whom was a Serjeant Major a Cornet and some other Officers And upon the 28 of this instant February Letters came to the Parliament from ever renowned Colonell Massey of a great Victory obtained by some of his forces under his brothers Command Who in the Forrest of Dean fell upon Sir John Winter routed him and made himself swim the River of Wye in which passage 60 of his men were drowned 70 slain on the place besides Colonell Gam and Leivtenant Colonell Winter and 120 taken prisoners and a 140 horse taken 2 Leivtenant Colonells one Major 4 Captains and other Commanders and Officers together with 300 Armes And upon this Relation a Letter of Thanks from the House of Commons was Ordered to bee sent to Colonell Massey for his good service and an Order also passed presently for providing money for so deserving a Commander And now good Reader let mee desire thee heer to stay a little and to take a summary and short survey of the rare and rich mercies of this Moneth also even of the Burning Bush still Vnconsumed nay rather in the midst of furious flames gallantly grown and much improved as hath been this moneth most evidently expressed both In that notable passage of Providence at Sir Erasmus de la Fountains House In the sound beating of Ashby Cavaliers at Cole-Orton and the brave defeat given to Welsh Gerrard at Cardigan Castle In that Mock-Treaty at Vxbridge and that brave peice of service performed by Major Bridges at Stoke-New-House in Gloucestershire Together with Major Jones his valiant taking of Partshall Garrison and Major Generall Brownes activity about Oxford In the brave defeat at Heightley in Yorkeshire And the happy arrivall at London of Sir Thomas Fairfax to the Parliament to receive his Commission to bee Generalissimo of all the Armies of the Kingdome In the most valiant taking of Scarborough Town Church and Haven The brave defeat given to the Enemies neer Dennington by valiant Major Temple Together with that renowned repulse given to Greenvill at Plymouth In the most happy and famous surprizall of the strong Town and Castle of Shrewsbury and all the rich prizes therein And finally In the taking of Apsley House in Shropshire The brave service of Colonell Craford at Roesham neer Oxford and the famous defeat given to the Enemies by renowned Colonell Massie in the Forrest of Dean In due and deep consideration and most gratefull contemplation of all which so rare and rich
In the singular good service also of prudent and pious Major Generall Skippon in so fully and fairly reducing the Officers and Souldiers of the former old Army to serve under Sir Thomas Fairfax in his New-Modelled-Armie a businesse of high concernment as things then stood In the brave victory which the Lord gave to our loving and loyall Brethren of Scotland by Major Generall Vâ—rey against Montrosse And the honourable encouragement of Literature in the University of Cambridge by our pious and prudent Parliament In the seasonable and successefull appeasing of that Second Rebellion in Kent And the brave defeat given to the Enemy by valiant Colonell Norton at Rumsey In the happy reduction of divers both Earles and Lords from Oxford to the Parliaments party Together with that brave defeat given to Prince Mauâ—ices forces in Worcestershire And lastly In those famous defeates and brave Victories obtained by renowned Major Generall Brown and Leivtenant Generall Cromwell against the Enemies forces about Oxford The singular good estate and happy harmony of Sir Thomas Fairfaxes Army now in the field and advanced to Oxford And the provident and prudent setling of the Sea-affaires as well as Land-affaires in managing the Admiralty of the Seas by most wise and loyall Commissioners All which rare mercies and prudent passages of State seriously considered and as they ought most gratefully recogitated has not England sinfull England most just cause still to expostulate with it self and cordially to confesse with holy David Thou O Lord hast turned for us our mourning into dauncing Thou hast put off our sack-cloth and girded us with gladnesse for this very end that our glory even our hearts tongues and lives may still sing praises to thee our God Therefore O Lord our God to thee alone wee will give thanks and praises for ever and ever And now to proceed ANd heer now I shall begin this Moneth of Mayes memorable mercies with that most remarkable deliverance from imminent danger which the Lord most graciously wrought for that famous faithfull and ever to bee honoured gallant Commander Colonell Massie which was certified by his own Letter to London May the 4. whereof because our foule-mouthed Malignants had with full-mouthed false boasts and bragges vapoured so much and vaunted of a mighty defeat given by the Enemy to that famous and fortunate Commander I therefore have heer thought fit to give the Reader for his farther satisfaction and fuller content a sight of the true Copy of the said Letter which was as followeth Sir ON the 21 of this instant Aprill Prince Rupert marching all that night came the next morning Aprill 22 from Ledbury where I then was but the Enemy intercepting 8 of my Scouts wee had no intelligence till they were neer at hand upon us The Enemies advanced and charged into the Town upon us and my self with divers Gentlemen Viz. Major Harlow Leivtenant Colonell Kerle Major Bacchus Captain Gifford Captain More and Captain Baily with some others and some common Souldiers with the assistance of 200 Musketteers out of the County Forces received them and so soon as wee received the Alarm wee drew out upon them and marching close up to them fell on them beat them to a retreat and made it good against them so long till my foot might retreat a secure way to Gloucester After the foot wee marched off and out of the Town wee had two or three hot charges upon them where wee slew neer forty of the Enemies men and many of them that were killed at this charge being Officers of quality and esteem On our part wee had very few killed not above 6 or 7. but I was inforced my self still to charge in the head of all my Troops to incourage the Warwick and Northampton horse I and my Officers bearing the heat of the day At length intending to retreat to our place of advantage some horse of those sent to mee not standing to it as they should have done the Enemy got in amongst our foot but wee redeemed that again and marched off into the field The Enemy have sent us a List of the Prisoners which they took from us the number by their own List is 110 prisoners but above 80 of them were none of my men only such Country people as they swept away with them in their retreat that did never bear Armes onely they carryed them away to cause them by money or making friends for exchange to redeem themselves my Major Sergeant-Major Bacchus is desperately wounded in the head and was carryed away prisoner by the Enemy to Hereford Major Harlow had a sleight wound in the head and another in the arme but came bravely off Captain Baily and Captain Foster with some other common men of ours are taken prisoners by them I have sent for their freedom by exchange of some of those prisoners I took from them many of them being men of quality and â—now to redeem them all if they were thrice as many Prince Rupert sent mee word by my Trumpeter that I sent that in the fight hee sought mee out but knew me not till after no more than I knew him But it seems wee charged each other and hee shot my horse under mee and I did as much for him At that charge many Commanders of theirs fell Prince Rupert is I hear very much enraged to undertake so great and toilsome a march and so much to misse his end I had by Gods blessing my intendment and stopt his present march Northward to God bee the glory Prince Ruperts Army by the report of the Countrey is noised about to bee 6 or 7000 horse and foot who are now upon their march again towards Ludlow and so as I hear intend for Saloâ— if they bee not prevented again which must bee by a more considerable strength than I have The forces that were with mee were in all about 500 foot and 350 horse nor were these all with mee at Lydbury for my Guards were not come The Enemy braglittle of their getting but lament much the names of the Commanders and Officers that were slain by us I shall send you by the next Your humble Servant Edward Massie Aprill 25. 1645. Post script My last Letter told you that Lydney House was fired and Sir John Winter ran away by the light of the flames and for haste over-ran two of his great Gunnes one Demi-Culverin one Saker and 3 brases of Iron murtherers which hee left behind at Lydney to doe mee a courtesie Sir John fired all the way hee went till our forces drove them to a full flight over the Bridge The consideration of this gallant service of Colonel Massies and all his former successes rendered him most honourable in the thoughts of his endeared friends the Honourable House of Commons who presently after the reading thereof fell into consultation how to reward him in some measure to his great deservings and thereupon it was Ordered that an Ordinance of Parliament should bee
in continuing in these parts for the securing these Garrisons Sir Mich. Woodhouse Governour of Ludlow one that came out of Ireland procures all the Kings Garrisons for above 20 miles compasse to draw out for his releif Colon. Lunsford from Monmouth Colonell Sands from Worcester Colonell Skudamore from Hereford Sir Mich. Woodhouse from Ludlow forces from Hartlebury and other Garrisons all which made a body of about 2000 horse and foot which marched up neer Braincroft Castle wee being too weak to encounter with them marched to Wistenstow within a mile of Stook the better to inforce our selves from Shrewsbury and Montgomery whither wee sent for forces but came not in time enough the Enemies contrary to our expectation judging Stook of more consequence made haste thither to besiege it of whose approach the Colonells having intelligence with advice of the field-Officers drew our resolving to fight our horse made what haste they could to come in Captain Fouks troop to which were joyned some Reformadoes fell upon a body of the Enemies horse being 200. and routed them the foot marched on with gallant resolution beat up all their ambuscadoes in the hedges for a mile together untill they came to the main body which after an houres fight wee routed and dispersed In this businesse Leivtenant Colonell Rinking deserves much honour in which he shewed as much valour as a man could do and also the other Colonels did very gallantly we slew neer 100 on the place took above 300 common Souldiers about 60 Officers and Gentleman all their Ordnance bag and baggage 4 barrels of powder a good quantity of match and bullets 100 horse some Gentlemen of quality were slain there being most of the Gallantry of Herefordshire In the action Sir William Crofts the best head-peice and activest man in that County was slain on the place the Governour of Ludlow and Monmouth hardly escaped Sir Mich. Woodhouse his horse being taken The glory of this great action belongs onely to God who was pleased to make weak means instrumentall all to doe so great a work Major Fenwick who behaved himself gallantly is wounded but wee hope not mortally There were taken in this fight Colonell James Boughton Capt. Walter Neale Capt. George Wright Capt. Tho. Stait Capt. Leivten Joseph Singe 2 Cornets 3 Ensignes 2 Leivtenants 3 Sergeants 9 Quartermasters 7 Corporalls 5 Waggoners 3 Montrosses Gerrard Steel Physician Richard Richardson Chirurgeon And many Gentlemen After this fight wee returned to Salop and marched out on the 14 of June early with 13 Colours of foot and 5 Troopes of Horse towards Bridgenorth On the 16 day there was sent hither 26 prisoners most of them Officers taken as I understand comming towards Bridgenorth amongst these prisoners there were foure Parsons Viz. Parson Avacham and Parson Ambler these two have been wicked Incendiaries the other two I knew not this feat being done our forces faced about and before any of us knew of it were set down before Caâ—s-Castle within 7 miles of this town which is a strong Garrison of the Enemies wee are close up to the walls already if wee bee not disturbed by a greater strength I hope wee shall carry it all the Gentlemen of the Committee but one are in this service and very active By Letters from Shropshire of the 23 of June wee were certified that the strong Castle of Cause after 7 dayes siege was taken by the forces of Shropshire the Officers and Souldiers marched out with their single armes without any baggage all the Horse are delivered up to the Committees for the service of the publick It is a place of great concernment and stands upon a Rock not Mineable by this the Country is cleared on that side Severne to Ludlow and quite up to Montgomery the County is in a good condition and will bee very speedily put into a brave posture The Forces as one of credit reports that came thence since the taking of Cause are now before Shrawdon Castle Much also about the foresaid time wee received certain information by Letters out of Cheshire that valiant Colonell Venables Governour of Tarvin having intelligence that a party of Chester forces were going forth to the releif of Caus-Castle in the tiâ—e when it was besieged as aforesaid this vigilant Colonell I say in the night time drew forth a party out of his Garrison went over the River of Dee on the Welsh-side where hee met with that party of the Kings fell bravely upon them who being thus suddenly and unexpectedly assaulted were soon put to the Rout wher hee took Sir John Powell a Commissioner for the Kings Array and who had formerly been High Sheriffe of the County of Chester together with 40 more prisoners whereof some were Officers and about an 100 horse and good store of Armes and thus also prevented that designe of the Enemies And about the latter end of this instant Juâ—e wee had certain intelligence out of the West of the taking of Heyworth in Wiltshire by the forces of our most renowned Generall Sir Thomas Fairfax in his way more Westward which was thus performed When the Enemy heard that our forces drew neer-unto them a party of them fled into the Church but afterward their Commander in cheif drew them out of the Church to guard the Bridge at one end of the Town which for a while they pretty valiantly maintained but were soon-forced to forsake it with the losse of Colonell Sir Thomas Nott and divers others who were slain in the place on the Enemies part where also wee took an 100 Armes and other Ammunition together with 60 prisoners And heer good Reader let mee again desire thee to stay a while and that moâ—â— justly in great and gratefull admiration and contemplation of the most remarkable and precious providence of our good God and his most mighty and mercifull protection and preservation of his maiveilously maligned Church the Parliaments Cause which most like Moses his Burning-Bush hath this Moneth also in a most high measure been preserved with no lesse than Coelestiall assistance in the midst of so many fierce and furious â—lames of regall Malignity not onely from being even quite extinct and consumed but even miracâ—lously made to prosper and flourish in flames maugre all the might and machinations of its proudest and most politick pressing and oppressing Enemies as is most eminently and evidently to bee seen and acknowledged First in that affectionate and feeling Petition of the Citizens of London to the Parliament touching the then present sad and low condition of the whole Kingdom Together with that brave defeat given to the Enemies neer Chester by valiant Leivtenant Colonell Venables And that of renowned Rossiter at Hâ—ughâ—m-House Especially in that most famous glorious and ever to bee recorded Victory most worthy to bee deeply ingraven in never to bee obliterated Characters of most gratefull and gracious hearts far more precious and pleasing to God than richest and
most valiant and vigilant Commander Major Generall Brown the substance of one of which Letters was to this effect viz. SIR I Presume you have already heard of the taking of 65 Wallingford Horses by our noble Major Generalls forces Likewise how at Farrington wee took 40 more many prisoners and some of note Since which the Enemy fell upon our New Garrison at Gaunt House with 500 horse and 300 foot and one peice of Ordnance they being forces drawn from Oxford Woodstock and Farrington Commanded by Legge then Governour of Oxford they fell upon our horse quarters and began to drive away our Horse but a small party of our foot forces out of Gaunt Garrison beat them out of the grounds whiles our men had time to recover some of our horses again with which they pursued the Enemy above 3 miles recovered all their horse which the Enemy had gotten save a matter of 3 or 4. killed 10 of them took 14 prisoners and 30 horse of theirs and this service they performed with lesse than 20 horse Since which our horse joyned with them of Gaunt House fell into the quarters of a Regiment of the Kings which came to recruite the Kings Garrison at Radcot-Bridge where ours took 70 of the Enemies Horse the Colonells own Colours himself escaping by wading over the water together with some prisoners And immediately upon this good successe they marched to Woodstock into the Enemies quarters there and took a Captain prisoner with 5 or 6 others and about 30 horse And thus it pleased the Lord to prosper our forces in all their attempts and to enable them to come off still with little or no losse And about the same time our most prudent and provident Parliamentary Statists having lately before deligated and chosen some of the Members of Both Houses to goe as their Commissioners to the Parliament then begun in Scotland with instructions given them by our Parliament for managing of affaires there in a reciprocall form for the firmer combining of mutuall love and the fairlyer carrying on of the affaires of Both Kingdomes with full content on both sides as our loving brethren the Scots have their Commissioners residing heer constantly with our Parliament in England the names of which Commissioners nominated and appointed to go thither were the Lord Wharton for the House of Peers Sir Henry Vane Senior Sir William Armyne Mr. Darley and Mr. Goodwin for the House of Commons And reverend Mr. Marshall and Mr. Strong Members of the Assembly of Divines were ordered to goe along with them So also there was a Committee of Lords and Commons ordered to bee resident with the Army of our Brethren the Scots then in Worcestershire to farther their advances for the benefit and safety of the Kingdome and if the Lords will bee so to shorten the lingering plague of the Sword among us The names of this Committee thus nominated to bee with the Scots Army were the Earle of and the Lord Mountague for the House of Peers and Sir John Cabell Mr. Purefoy Mr. Salway and Mr. Baynton for the House of Commons And now about the 14 of this instant wee had certain and comfortable intelligence that about the 9 of this instant July being Wednesday active honest and most valiant Major Generall Massie being sent forth by our most noble Generall Sir Thomas Fairfax with a party of Horse and Dragoones about 5000. besides foot had the honour of giving the first blow of a most famous and victorious skirmish and brave defeat given to the Enemy at or about Lang-port which very blow made the Soule and Spirit of the advers Army to tremble and faint and flye away For hee instantly fell upon about 2000 of Gorings horse in Ilmore who as soon as our men came in sight of them ran away in great fear and confusion and Major Generall Massies forces followed and pursued them almost to their very Garrison of Lang-port wher their foot were all quartered and their horse at Abersoil and the parts adjacent In which first blow of this famous defeat this noble Major Generall took at least 5 or 600 horse about 300 prisoners whereof were 2 Majors 6 Captains 9 Colours and slew above 20 in the place The Enemy in this their hasty retreat or rather plain flight from our men still cut up the Bridges as they past which our men notwithstanding made up as fast as they brake them down for politick Major Generall Massie had 2 Regiments of Dragoones which rode with Spades and Pickaxes and a third also with pallisadoes for these very purposes On Thursday July the 10. our renowned Generall Sir Thomas Fairfax by 3 of the clock in the morning drew out that part of the Army which hee had with him into Sutton fields the rest continuing with Major Generall Massie on the other side of the River the Generall had with him 7 Regiments of Horse Viz. his own Leivtenant Generall Cromwells Colonell Whaleyes Colonell Vermudens Colon. Graves Colon. Riches Colon. Fleetwoods and Colonell Butlers which scarse made 2800 horse hee had all his foot with him save the Musketteers of 3 Regiments Our Signall word was God with us The Enemies word was Bristoll Early also the same morning the Enemy drew into the field and about 7 of the clock had made themselves Masters of a passe which lay in the midst between our body and theirs being the onely way for our men to make way to fall upon them where there could not march above 4 a brest and up to the belly in water and their horses ready to swim in no little danger as they past on and in which place the Enemy did both front and flank them on both sides and therfore you may easily judge what a hard task they were put unto and in this posture they stood till about 11 of the clock they having in the mean time sent away most of their Ammunition bagge and baggage led horses and other Lumber to Bridgewater fearing it seemed to stand to the Battle having been so much discouraged by the defeat given them by valiant Massie as aforesaid on the day before Now when as Generall Fairfaxes forlornes marched nigh the Enemy they having divided themselves on the hill on which they stood into severall divisions and squadrons of horse and foot our foot fired upon them in Vollies and our Ordnance played so quick and sure that the Enemy were soon routed and seemed as in a maze not knowing which way to fly to avoid the execution of our Cannon yet all this while they maintained the passage which was in hot dispute between them and us yet at last within an houre or thereabout wee though with difficulty gained it and sent horse to second our foot Major Bethel with his troop only went on in the first place being to go up a steep hill to charge by that time that hee came neer the Enemy drew on in a
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
incroached upon our Enemies and in many places got within Pistoll shot and have had hot incounters with them On Munday morning last about foure a Clock they sallyed out againe and we watched how to catch them and that evening we took Sir Bernard Ashley the best Souldier in Bristoll and kild Col. Daniel for he had seaven bullets in his body but being so neere the works we durst not alight to bring off his body Sir Bernard Ashley we have Prisoner though sore wounded The other day at our first comming we shot Sir Richard Crane another great favourer of Ruports through the thighe of which he lyes dangerously ill the party of Foot under Lieutenant Col. Kempson hath taken the strong Fort of Ports-head point and therein â—ix pieces of Ordnance and one Demy-culvering so our Ships may come in freely into Severne we have also seized on one Ship in Avon with twelve peice of Ordnance The last night we were all up in Armes expecting a Sally out of one thousand Horse upon our Guards being extream wet weather all night long the Enemy drew out under their Workes but their Scouts discerning our readinesse came not on besides they had a most fierce Alarm Ports-head point was taken and the Parliament Ships coming up the River the Towns men were dismayed and threw down Arms Rupert imprisoned some of them and thus is the condition of affaires for the present We had by this raised as good Works against theirs as may be and if Goring come on of the other hand But singly either of them we feare not I am in great hast and can write no more but that I am Sir Your most humble servant From before Bristoll Aug. 28. 1645. at 4. in the afternoone Colonell Morgan is before Barklay Castle and the Generall hath sent a Regiment of Horse to his assistance Our Horse before Bristoll have done five daies and nights duty never coming off the Field And about the 30 of this instant August came certaine information by Letters to London from Redding that a Party of about 120 Horse from Wallingford and Dennington came into those parts to gather Contribution Money even within a mile of Redding Colonell Baxter the Governour of Reading with Captaine Pile and as many Horse and Dragoones of their Troops as could be presently made ready which was not above 30 or 40 in all at most understanding thereof sent to Colonell Moore ond Captain Burroughs who then had about 100 of Abington Horse quartered also at Redding to prepare for his Reserve The Enemy upon their March homeward ware closely followed by the Governours party whose forlorn hope forced the Enemies Rear guard to their body at which their body faced about and caused our forlorn to retreat and they perceiving our number to be but small pursued the Governour through and through yet he had but one man slain and eight of his men were taken Prisoners and the Governours sword was cut off to the hilt for upon the Enemies facing about upon ours the Governour seeing the Enemies advantage to be at least foure to one did forbeare an engagement till he had sent one of his Captaines to know how far behind the Abington horse were and to give them the Word who returned to the Governour and told him they were at hand which proved otherwise to the hazard of the Governour and his whole party then engaging as you have heard See here therefore how much conducing to the welfare of martiall affaires true intelligence is and how the want of it proves destructive In this interim at length and seasonably enough came in Colonell Moore and Captain Burroughs with their horse and they now with the Governours Horse and Dragoones being rallied againe very fiercely charged the Enemy again bravely routed them regained their prisoners tooke about 50 Horse of the Enemies 60 Arms 23 Prisoners one Major one Captaine and sorely wounded another and slew 13 of them on the ground and in their pursuit which ours had upon them for at least five miles The rest escaped by flight to tell their fellowes at Wallingford what a brave prize and purchase they had got We had but that one man slaine upon the place forementioned and two dyed since of their wounds The Governour Colonell Moore Captaine Pile Captaine Burroughs and Quarter-Master Barker behaved themselves with much gallantry in this businesse and generally the Souldiers fought all of them very bravely but most justly to God be all the praise of the victory And about the same time we also understood for certaine by Letters out of Shropshire That the brave and active Garrison of Shrewsbury fell also upon a party of the Enemies at Bishops-Castle in that County as they were hot in plundring the Fayre which was then kept there whom they bravely and suddenly routed rescued all the plunder tooke 200 of the Enemies Horse and many Prisoners This Service was performed by valiant Major Fenick and the Enemies party was from Ludlow and Bridge-North And here now good Reader let me desire thee to make a little pause and parley with thy heart and soul in the serious contemplation and consideration of the rich and rare mercies of this moneth also wherein thou hast most remarkably seen the faithful performance of this our still-continued mighty marvelous wonder of The Burning-Bush unconsumed or rather indeed more and more prospered and preserved in the midst of such and so many fierce furious flashes and flames of mischief and malignity in outragious opposition against it which hath bin most abundantly demonstrated both in Captain Allens brave defeat given to the Enemy neer Stamford in Lincolnshire In the surprisall of the Kings Commissioners at Shaftsbury by Colonell Fleetwood In the routing of the Clubmen by Lieutenant Generall Cromwell In the famous defeat given to the Enemy in Wales by Major Generall Laughorne In the storming and taking of Sherburne Castle by renowned Sir Thomas Fairfax In the Parliaments pious and prudent care for the reformation of matters in Religion In the good condition of our Forces in the North whereby a dangerous designe of the Kings was frustrated and his forces defeated In our most noble and renowned Generals winning of that strong Fort at Bristoll called Ports-head Point In that brave but dangerous defeat given to the Enemy neer Reading And Major Fenicks defeat given to the Enemy at Bishops-Castle in Shropshire All which rare Parliamentary Mercies bestowed on us and sore pinches and pulls thus from time to time put upon and wrested from our vile and vexatious Enemies O how ought the gracious and gratefull recordation and consideration thereof work upon our spirits and affect our souls with unexpressible gratitude to our God the most mercifull wise and wonderfull worker of them and cause us to break forth with holy David that sweet singer of Israel into this holy extasie of exultation and rejoycing sing and say Our souls waite yea wait only
difficult the Castle strong and the Enemy within especially 〈◊〉 Goveenour Sir Charles Lucas 〈◊〉 obstinate at an Enemy could be yet 〈…〉 our Forces were joyned with those of Sir Tho. Fairfaxes whereof valiant Colonell Rainsborough had the Command we made 〈◊〉 long stay but â—ell presently upon their out Workes then our men most gallantly marched up unto their Guard in the Town which was a strong Work indeed out of which we beat them and presently tooke it In which 〈◊〉 many of our men were drowned and some few slaine but having thus gotten into that Work we planted our great Guns against the Tower and battered it much and they returned the like roaring resolutions to us with cuse shot of bullets 〈◊〉 and such like matter and kild some of 〈◊〉 men amongst whom John Freeman Lieutenant to Major Dobson 〈◊〉 me he had three 〈◊〉 given him at one time in the brest flanke and 〈◊〉 Our men notwithstanding this went on 〈◊〉 sealing 〈◊〉 with much resolution which occasioned Sir Charles to desire a 〈◊〉 and offer 〈◊〉 to depart There were three of our great Guns 〈…〉 which were planted against the Tower of the Church The 〈◊〉 had planted a 〈◊〉 upon the top of the Tower but our men made such batteries that they were glad to take it downe Vpon the top of the Tower the Enemy placed a Flag ofâ— defiance as they 〈◊〉 it which 〈◊〉 of our Regiments boldly and bravely got up the walls and tooke 〈◊〉 but whilst he was vapouring 〈…〉 the top of the Tower a part of the Tower he stood on being much broken and battered by our Gun 〈…〉 him so that he fell downe and was killed with the stones that fell upon him and two more that came after him to help him were killed likewise The businesse was the more difficult and dangerous by reason that what our men did was open and at mid-day Vpon the Enemies 〈◊〉 order was taken to divide the plunder of the Castle and it was concluded that if our Captaines would deposite 500 l. in money which should be divided among the Souldiers to each five shillings they should 〈◊〉 the plunder of the Castle the which five of our Captaines did namely Major White Captaine Stevenson Captaine Piagot Captaine 〈◊〉 and one more and so paid the Souldiers and tooke the 〈…〉 was very much Beefe Bacon Butter Cheese Meale Wheate 〈…〉 and a great quantity of other things 300 flitches of 〈…〉 roome many Cattell insomuch that it is thought that there was victuals for 300 men for five months This illustrates the 〈◊〉 of God in 〈◊〉 it was so soone taken the stormes were so hard and sharp and the â—â—dders weighty to reare for scaling During the siege many of the Enemy thought to have got out of the Church into the Castle at the 〈…〉 our men although there were many crosse Brest-Workes in the Church-yard made such hast and came in with such courage and resolution that 〈◊〉 got between the Enemy and the Castle and did much execution upon them The Enemy in the Castle all the time much annoyed our men but the Lord in the end blessed be his holy name for it gave us the victory and the Country is much sâ—eed from that most intestiâ—â— oppressor Sir Charles Lucas Thus you have the manner of subduing the great Enemy according to my best knowledge and intelligence And so let all thine Enemies O God perish and be put to shame and dishonour And now good Reader I shall here desire thee with my self to make a little stand and stay againe deservedly to looke upon and contemplate with thy most serious thoughts and gratefull heart the most rich and rare Parliamentary mercies and the various Victories and triumphaut trophies of honour even the most reall demonstrations of the truth of this moneths remarkable Wonder of The Burning-Bush still unconsumed yea mightily and even miraculously prospered and preserved maugre the mischiefe of all the fierce and most furious flames of Antichristian and Atheisticall wrath and rage round about it as is most evidently and eminently apparent both in our renowned Parliamentary Worthies prudent and provident care to undeceive the mis-led people in Wales by an excellent Declaration against the Royalists foule and false slanders In the happy recovery of the City of Bristoll from Rupert and his ravenous Royalists In renowned and religious Major Generall Skippons being made Governour of Bristoll Shrewsburies defeat given to the Enemy at Bridge-North and the remarkable preservation of Lieutenant Colonell Phips out of the Enemies hands In Gods admirable mercy to our distressed Brethren of Scotland almost overrunne and ruined by Montrosse but returning his intended mischiefe upon his own head In giving such a memorable accesse unto and hopefull entrance into the City of Chester by our possessing of the Suburbs thereof In that brave defeat given to the Enemy at Kiddarminster by valiant Generall Poyntz In delivering up unto us the Towne and Castle of Cardiffe in Wales and hopefull reduction of the hearts and affection of the Welch to the Parliament In the rendition of the Devizes and Lacock-House Garrison in Wiltshire and the reduction of all Pembrokeshire to the obedience of the Parliament In the famous defeat given by our forces to the Enemy at Rowton-Moore And in the establishing of pious and prudent Magistrates and Judges Together with the surrender of Barkley-Castle into the power of the Parliament At the serious sight and deep and due consideration and contemplation of all these rich and rare Parliamentary Mercies O who can choose but stand amazed and wondring at the unfathomed free favour and unbottomed bounty of our good God unto us O wonderfull what never a moneth never a week nay I may almost say never a day for so many months together but a Victory or a rich and rare Mercy granted unto us and conferred upon us O then let there never be a moneth never be a lip a heart or a tongue empty of but contrariwise may they ever be most full of the high and most honourable praises of our great and good God even the God of our salvation who thus dayly loads us with his loving kindnesse and thus constantly encompasses us with songs of deliverances But now to go on And here now I shall begin the serious and sacred observation and contemplation of the marvellous mercies of our wonder-working God in the progresse of this moneth also with that brave defeat given to our Enemies Forces by that valiant and vigilant Commander Colonell Moore Governour of Gaunt-House a Parliamentary Garrison which lies within about eight miles from Oxford from whom we had credible information that about the beginning of this instant October this valiant Colonell being gone forth with a party of about 200 Horse met with a party of about 500 Horse of the Enemies at Kidlington and that he notwithstanding the great dis-proportion and unequality of their number to his skirmished most couragiously with
up but most fled And in this action Sir John Browne himselfe deported himselfe with as much gallantry as any man in the world could do the whole body being not discouraged though in number so much overmatched For the particulars of those that were killed and taken I refer you to the list where all the particulars are certified according to Sir John Brownes own letter The Lord Digby had a cleare rout as ever was given to any The Lord Digby himselfe with Sir Marmaduke Langdale and others of his chiefe Officers that escaped fled over to the Isle of man in a Cock-Boat The Isle of man is a malignant Island between Cumberland and Ireland the Earle of Derby is the Governour thereof for the King and of others that escaped there are divers taken straglers and their Horse and Armes but in a body there are none heard of save onely about 200. that are fled towards Bâ—â—m and a party are sent to stop them from getting in thereto if they can but of them that are fled that way of the Enemies many of them are fore wounded A List of what was slain and what was taken by Sir John Brown at the routing of the Lord Digby and Sir Marmaduke Langdale at Carlile Sands On the Enemies part ONe hundred slaine upon the place Many wounded Taken Prisoners DIgby his Quartermaster Generall 1 Colonell of Langdales Brigade 2 Lieutenant Colonels 3 Captains of Horse Divers other Officers Many Prisoners Taken besides TWo Hundred Horse and Armes The Lord Digbyes owne Standard Sir Marmaduke Langdales Standard 3 Colours of Horse On our part SIr John Browne shot thorow his side but not mortally for he is able to fit upon his Horse back Captaine Lesley wounded 30 and odde slaine amongst whom some Officers but none of note that I hear of 50 or there abouts wounded on our side in all Digby and Langdale with 1000 Horse were totally routed by Sir John Browne with a party of about 500. and Digby and Langdale fled to the Isle of Man in a Cock-boat And upon the intelligence hereof an Order passed both Houses of Parliament to this effect It is this day Ordered by the Lords and Commons in Parliament assembled That the Ministers in the severall Congregations in the Cities of London and Westminster and Lines of Communication do upon Wednesday next being the 5 of November take notice of the great mercy of Almighty God in preserving and continuing this present Parliament now full five yeares compleat notwithstanding all the designes and machinations of the Enemy against them And likewise to make most thankfull mention of Gods great mercy in the defeating of the Lord Digby and Sir Marmaduke Langdales Forces in Scotland by Sir John Browne of Fardell Knight And that the Lord Mayor be desired to give the severall Ministers timely notice of this Order And now good Reader let me intreat thee as there is very great reason here to make a little stay and even to stand amazed in the serious and most gratefull re-view and re-cogitation of the still continued and multiplied mercies of our most good and gracious wonder-working God in this Moneth also to his blessed Burning-Bush still I say both unconsumed and also made most prosperously to stand and flourish in the midst of all the rough and outragious conflagrations and combustions of Malignants power and policie might and mischievous machinations to have utterly 〈◊〉 destroyed it root branch had not God I say the great and gracious the most wise and vigilant Watchman over his poore maligned English-Israel stood for them as hath been mightily manifested in its glorious preservation and propagation both in the brave defeat given to the Enemy by Col. Moore Governour of Gâ—â—nt-House the taking of Farâ—igh Castle in Somersetshire and of Sandall Castle in Yorkeshire In the happy surrender of the Town and Castle of Winchester into the Parliaments power and the pious resolutions of our Parliament to deale mercifully with Malignants and Delinquents notwithstanding their intended mercilesse cruelty towards us and yet herein also the Parliaments prudence and providence for the safety and welfare of the Kingdome In the most happy taking of Bazing-House that pernicious denne of theeves and thus cleansing that foule and filthie Augean-stall together with the taking of Chepstow Towne and Castle by Colonell Margan In the cleared integrity of the Parliament touching 〈◊〉 of new Members unto them the brave defeat given to the Enemy by our Abington Forces together with that other brave defeat given by valiant Colonell Rossiter to Banbury Forces neare Newarke In the taking of Langford-House neer Salisbury and the soundly beating of Sir William Vaughans Forces by Tamworth Garrison In the famous defeat given to the Enemy at Sherburne his York-shire by valiant Colonell Copley and the admirable and almost miraculous taking of Tiverton Town and Castle In the happy overture of things in Wales for the reducing of that Principality to the Parliaments obedience and the taking in of 〈◊〉 and Monmouth Towns and Castles to the Parliaments party And lastly In the discovery of Digbies Letters the brave defeat given to the Enemy neer Denbigh Castle coming to relieve Chester And that other brave defeat given to Sir William Byron on the like intention to relieve Westchester where he was taken Prisoner Together with that last not least famous defeat given againe to the Lord Digby and Langdale in their mischievously intended march into Scotland to Montrose Upon the most weighty and worthy gratefull consideration of all which most memorable and admirable Parliamentary mercies and mighty blessings O what infinite cause have we O in what innumerable and indissoluble bonds of obliged gratitude are we everlastingly bound to blesse the Lord our thus great and gracious wonder-working God And with the pious Prophet to be inlarged in our hearts and tongues with abundant expressions of joyfull confessions and exultations in our God and to sing and say in this our day Lo this is our God we have waited for him and he hath saved us This is the Lord we have trusted in him and now he hath made us to be glad and rejoyce in his mighty salvations for he hath trodden downe Moab our most proud and politick adversaries under his feet even as straw is trodden downe for the dunghill This also cometh all forth from the Lord of Hosts who is wonderfull in counsell and most excellent in working Go on O Lord we pray thee still to make thy great name more and more glorious and let not men prevaile Let still these irreligiâ—us Royalists be judged in thy sight Put them still in feare O Lord that they may know they 〈…〉 men So shall we thy people and the sheep of thy pasture give thanks 〈◊〉 to thee and blesse thy name as we do this day for ever and ever 〈◊〉 now to go on And here now we will begin the yet further most gratefull contemplation and admiration of the most
Parliament and their friends This indulgent and most noble favour thus shewed by his Excellency was not altogether fruitlesse unto us immediately after for some of those Officers proved very serviceable to our Army in some of their succeeding designes nor could lesse good effects be expected from many others where his Excellency occasionally made his Martiall progresse and advances whereby he hath most certainly and more and more most worthily been crowned with ancient Caesars more than Golden Diadems of perpetuall same and honour viz. Caesar noster Anglicus dando sublevando ignoscendo Gloriam adeptus est But now to proceed About the latter end of this Moneth of January we had further certaine intelligence by Letters from Dartmouth in the West that a Barke which came from France putting in at Dartmouth not knowing it was in the Parliaments hands and being come within command before they discovered it was there instantly seized on But speciall order and directions having been given to the Master of the Ship that in case he saw himself in danger to be taken by any of the Parliaments Forces he should throw his packets of Letters overboard into the Sea which now he had accordingly done but it being upon examination confessed Colonell Lambert presently commanded out boats to search for them and to see if they could espie any such Packets floating on the waters toward the shore which by Gods good providence at last they found so indeed and tooke them up and brought them to the noble Colonell even Letters of great concernment from the Queen Jermine and Goring which were all speedily posted up to the Parliament And thus besides the prize of the Ship and the fraught therein the Lord was most graciously pleased even by our Enemies themselves and especially by admirable interception of their Letters from time to time even all along to lay open and discover unto us the most hidden I had almost said the most hideous secrets of their hellish hearts against us and thereby giving us fair and seasonable opportunities by his blessed assistance to prevent and avoid their intended malice and mischiefe toward us blessed O ever blessed be the pure and precious grace and meere mercy of our good God unto us And here now againe good Reader I shall desire thee in thy wonted patience and piety together with me to make another short stay and take a summarie and briefe survey and gratefull revise of all the sweet and salubrious mercies of this moneth also so much conducing to the health and happinesse of this long languishing Church and State to the dressing pruning and prospering of this our Burning-Bush still as you see unconsumed the Parliaments just Cause thus still sustained in the midst of all the fiery machinations and flaming molestations burning and blazing round about it as hath been most comfortably and conspicuously seen to us all both in the great mercy of our God in so upholding the heart of the renowned Governour of Plymouth with such impregnable loyalty and fidelity to the Parliament and its most just Cause as not to betray that great trust committed to him by the Parliament in safe-guarding the said famous Town from the pawes and possession of the Enemie and also in the singular good successe which immediately after the Lord gave to those his loyall befieged servants against their besieging Enemies as a just reward of their late base batterie of treachery shot against it In that famous defeat given also to the Enemy at Bâ—vie-Tracy and our winning of Ilminster Ashburton Totnes and Okebampton together with the famous victory obtained against the Rebels of Ireland at Sligo and the excellent effects ensuing thereon In the most happy totall relief of Plymouth from a long and dangerous siege by base and blood-thirsty Enemies and recovery of Sir Francis Drakes House a strong Garrison also out of their hands In Gods great goodnesse unto us in still stirring up the hearts and raising up the spirits of the most renowned Citizens of London to stand close to his truth and to be very zealous for the building up of Gods House as was most eminently evident in their most excellent Petitions to the Lords and Commons in Parliament for the speeding thereof In the most happy surprizall of the Town and Castle of Dartmouth a mighty mercy unto us indeed it being a place of great consequence to the whole Kingdome and a faire and famous Haven and inlet from other forraigne parts And sixthly and lastly In that brave defeat given to the Enemy at Câ—rk neer Stafford the taking in of Pâ—â—ldram Castle by Sir Thomas Fairfâ—â—s forces in the West and his most Excellent and amiable demeanour among the people of those parts even like a second Julius Caesar Together with the most seasonable surprisall of that Ship from France in Dartmouth harbour by which that 〈◊〉 of Letters of so great Concernment was also by Gods gâ—â—d providence apprehended and found floating on the waves of the Sea All which most gratefully put together and seriously and sanctimoniously considered can amount to no lesse than a most large acknowledgement of our most deere and Deepe enâ—â—gement to the Lord our God in all the bonds of most bonden gratitude and therefore to breake out into holy and hearty zeale 〈◊〉 Cordiall thankfulnes and with the good Prophet to conâ—â—â—â— and say Who would not feare and love thee O King of Nations 〈◊〉 to thee alone indeed it doth appertaine for as much as among all 〈◊〉 and strong man of the Nations and all their kingdomes their 〈…〉 like unto the Lord our God Who hath most mercifully and 〈◊〉 been a wall of fire to us this unworthy Jerusalem round 〈◊〉 as and the onely glorie in the midst among us But now to proceed And here now I shall begin the farther prosperous per 〈…〉 in the comfortable contemplation of the continued wonder of the Burning-Bush unconsumed in this Moneth also of Februarie 1646. with the certaine intelligence by letters out of the North 〈◊〉 parts of the Kingdome about the beginning of the 〈◊〉 of February 1646. That the strong and almost impregnaâ—â— Garrison called 〈◊〉 Castle being one of the strongest and 〈◊〉 buildings in the Kingdome and therefore called Belvoir 〈◊〉 word signifying a Fair-Prospect which had 66 steps or 〈◊〉 unto it and therefore might well over-look the Country which for the most part being vallies round about it seemed 〈◊〉 yeild obeyâ—â—â—ce to this Castle which now I say is reduced 〈…〉 obedience of the Parliament Sir lartis Lucas the Governour thereof withall the Commanders Officers and Souldiers therin 〈◊〉 permission to march away to Litch-field upon more honourable termes indeed than they deserved And 〈◊〉 Thursday Februarie they came letters out of Cheshire from that 〈◊〉 faithfull and religious Commander Sir Williâ—◠〈◊〉 of the most happie surrender of the strong and long 〈◊〉 Castle of West-Chester into the noble
to shew themselves and the enemy bestowed some shot on them but without doing any harme At last the Garrison seeing themselves betrayed and that it was bootlesse for them to stand it out any longer demanded a parley which was granted and agreement made that all their lives should be spared and those that were of the Town should returne quietly to their houses whereupon two by a ladder came over the walls The rest seeing it began againe to shoot and so brake quarter so as in conclusion they all became prisoners at discretion their lives excepted being sevenscore in number or thereabout The Souldiers got store of plunder besides which there were found 17. barrels of powder with match c. good store of victuall besides 30. prisoners or thereabout set at liberty In this Action there was but one man lost on the Parliaments side though the Enemy shot often and threw downe great stones from the wall And thus the Lord every way mightily shewed himselfe for us to the glory of his own great name the good of us his unworthy servants and the great dread and amazement of all our implacable and incorrigible enemies to him therefore alone be all the honour and glorie of all these our most memorable mercies and mighty deliverances And here I shall againe desire the godly Reader to make a short stay and to take a briefe and gratefull review of all the rare and rich mercies of this Moneth also in the Lords admirable preservation and advancement of the prosperity of this his Burning-Bush thus still not Consumed nay contrariwise still freshly flourishing and preserved both in the reducing of Belvoir castle the faire City of Chester Town and Castle to the obedience of the Parliament In the brave defeat given to the Enemie at Ashbie de la Zouch and the prosperous proceedings of our forces in the West In the establishment of the judges to ride their Circuites againe and keeping quarterly Assizes in all Countries 〈◊〉 the power of the Parliament In the famous defeat given to the Enemy at Torrington in the West and totally routing Hoptons Army there In putting down the Court of Wards the famous preservation of Cardiffe Towne and Castle and mighty victory obtained therein And the stratagemicall possession of the strong Garrison of Corff-Castle All which remarkable mercies seriously considered and gratefully preponderated O how great cause have we all with holy David frequently and frevently to enter into that his sweet Soul-Soliloquie and pious expostulation with our owne hearts What shall we re-pay and render to the Lord for all his benefits thus heaped and multiplyed upon us But take the Cup of salvation and pay our Vowes unto the Lord which we have made in the depth of our dâ—lorous daies unto him But now proceed And now we shall againe begin the most amiable and delectable progresse in the comfortable contemplation of the Parliamentary Mercies of this Moneth of March 1646. with the farther most famous successefull proceedings of our victorious Army in the West since the coming thereof into Cornwall and therein particularly their taking of Launceston a strong Garrison of the Enemies in that Countrie which being fully and truly related in a Letter by that worthy Gentlemen Master Rushworth our most noble Generall Sir Thomas Fairfaxes Secretary sent to the Speaker to the honourable House of Commons I have here given the Reader an exact and true Copy thereof which was as followeth SIR UPon Tuesday the 24 of Febr. the Generall began his march with the Army from Bedford and part from Torrington and quartered that night at Holsworth being 12 miles from one place and 15 miles from the other an extraordinary rainy day and wayes extraordinary deep Wednesday the 25 we advanced from Holsworth to Launceston being ten long miles that the Enemy might be the more amazed at the Armies entring of Cornwall Colonell Butler was sent from Holsworth with a party of 1000 Horse and 400 Dragoons on Tuesday night as farre as Stratton in Cornwall to beat up the Enemies Quarters and accordingly that night he passed the River where the Enemy had raised up a Brest-Worke at Tamarton Bridge and broke down the Bridge to hinder our passage over but presently quit the passage whereupon he forced the Horse as well as Foot that kept Guard to retreat to their other Guards and 〈…〉 to the place appointed for their drawing together upon an 〈◊〉 when he charged their Horse severall times at last it pleased God to put the Enemy to the flight He tooke about 300 Horse and 80 prisoners he had more prisoners and some of quality but the Souldiers minding their â—â—ry and booty in Horses many of the prisoners escaped this party of Horse of the Enemies being about 800 that lay to keepe Guard upon the River Tamar was commanded by Major Generall Webbe who with the rest of the Commanders were put to a disorderly Retreat with the rest of their Horses which gave them such an alarm towards the North parts of Cornwall that it forced them to draw their Horse back the rest of the Army marching to Launceston which amazed them likewise on the left hand that if their intentions were for breaking through we could not tell what resolution to take When we came within two miles of Launceston we met with their Scouts having taken severall of them we understood that Colonell Basset with Horse and Foot was resolved to keep Launceston and not to permit our entrance into the same whereupon the forlorn hope of Horse and Foot were sent to force entrance into the Towne the Enemy shut the Gates made some opposition but at last quit the Town and that disorderly we took some prisoners and killed some 〈◊〉 of them night being come on the rest escaped in the darke the Arms and Magazine in the Towne we seized upon we find the Country and particularly the place to expresse much joy at our coming though they were made believe by the Enemy that the Army would give no quarter to any Cornish man or woman which they did for the most part believe and was the cause of a great terrour upon them but our Souldiers notwithstanding the opposition they had at their entring of Launceston did not so much as plunder any one house nor did any other prejudice to the Town that we can heare of but I hope will so demean themselves in pursuance of the Generals Proclamation as we shall conquer the Cornish sooner by our civility than by the Sword Thus far into Cornwall it pleased God to prosper things with us and I hope when we come more into the heart of the County we shall not finde so many Enemies as friends Very speedily you shall receive a fuller account from Your humble Servant J. R. Launceston 26. of Febr. 1645. about nine a clock in the morning And upon the 2 of this instant March the honourable Houses of Parliament took the
together with Me from the bottome and root of their hearts and soules say unto it Amen and Amen A Convenient Corollarie pertinent to the Premisses OR Angliae Menses Mirabiles Englands Marveilous Moneths ANd now that the Reader may for his yet more cleare light and delight as it were Uno oculo et intuitu See and admire the resplendent lustre of our late most Marveilous Moneths and therein the admirable goings and doings of our Wonder-working God in the latter end of the last Summer and this last Winter 1645. I have here I say for Gods greater glory and the Reader more full content and Satisfaction collected and set downe together an on ocular-Summarie and breife Map as it were all the Townes Castles Garrisons or Strong Holds taken from the Enemie And all the field fights and famous Victories obtained since the happy setting forth of the greatly despised and vilipended New-Modell'd-Armie under the victorious Conduct and Command of ever to be renowned Sir Thomas Fairefax his Excellencie the most Successefull Captaine Generall of all the Parliaments forces over the whole kingdome All atcheived within the space of 8. or 9. Moneths or a very little more beginning from Midd-June 1645. Taken from the Enemie since Nasbies most famous Uictorie 1645. 1. LEicester Town and Castle p. 171. 2. Ilchester Garrison p. 175. 3. Stoksey-Castle p. 177. 4. Caus-Castle p. 177. 5. Heighworth-Garrison p. 180 6. Carleisle Towne and Castle p. 186 7. Sharwardâ—n-Castle p. 187 8. Langport-Garrisons p. 190 9. Burrough-Garrison p. 194 10. Bridgewater Towne and Castle p. 197 11. Cannon-Froom-Garrison p. 230. 12. Pontifract-Castle p. 201 13 Scarborough Castle p. 202 14 Rabbi Castle p. 203 15 Bath Towne and Castle p. 203 16 Chadwick Garrison p. 203 17 Sherburn Town and Castle p. 255 18 Port-shed strong Fort at Bristoll p. 260 19 Nunnie Castle p. 260 20 Bristoll Towne and Castle p. 265 21 Cardiffe Town and Castle p. 276 22 Devizes Towne and Castle p. 276 23 Lacock Garrison p. 277 24 Almost all Pembrook-shire reduced to the Parliament p. 277 25 Barkley Castle p. 283 26 Farleigh Castle p. 286 27 Sandall Castle p. 286 28 Winchester Town and Castle p. 287 29 Basing strong Garrison p. 287 30 Langford Garrison p. 296 31 Chepstow Towne and Castle p. 292 32 Dawley Castle 33 Moorton-Corbet House a strong Garrison p. 34 Rooton Castle 35 Linsill Mannour Garrison 36 Apley-house Garrison p. 115 37 Tiverton Town and Castle p. 300 38 Carmarthen Towne and Castle p. 302 39 Monmouth Towne and Castle p. 302 40 Shelford Garrison p. 313 41 Picton Castle 42 Abarashwait Garrison p. 315 43 Worton Garrison p. 316 44 Wiverton Garrison p. 316 45 Welbeck Garrison p. 316 46 Boulton Castle p. 318 47 Beiston Castle p. 48 Haverford West p. 255 49 Latham house a strong Garrison p. 329 50 Fulford Garrison p. 329 51 Hereford Town and Castle p. 330 52 Callantine Garrison p. 337 53 The happy releife of Taunton a third time equivalent to the taking of a Towne p. 187 54 Carew Castle p. 95 55 Skipton Castle p. 337 56 Embleden Castle p. 57 Cannon Tean a strong Fort p. 336 58 Canterbury Fort. p. 340 59 St Budeaux Church p. 341 60 Bovie-Tracie p. 341 61 Ilminster p. 341 62 Ashburton p. 341 63 Totnes p. 342 64 Okehampton p. 342 65 Plimouth totally releeved p. 348 66 Sir Francis Drakes house a strong Hold. p. 348 67 Dartmouth Towne and Castle p. 353 68 Pouldram Castle p. 358 69 Westchester Town and Castle p 361 70 Holt-Church Garrison 71 Belvoir Castle p. 361 72 Torrington Garrison p 366 73 Cardiff Town retaken and the Castle preserved 74 Corfe Castle p. 372 75 Lanceston Garrison p. 374 76 Abington againe admirably preserved p. 375 77 Ashbie De La Zouch p. 378 78 Bodman a strong Garrison p 379 79 Listithiel a Garrison p. 379 80 Ware Bridge a Garrison p 379 81 Mount Edgecombe a Garrison p. 383 82 Castle-Dennis a Garrison 83 Salt-Ash a Garrison p. 84 Saint Cullumb a Garrison p. 388 85 Truro a Garrison p. 400 86 Maus Castle p. 395 87 Penrin a Garrison p. 88 St. Ellens a Garrison p. 89 Flamouth p. 395 90 Foy a strong Garrison p. 391 91 Shruardon Castle p. 296 92 Gooderich Castle p. 397 93 Inch-house a Garrison p. 402 94 Hilford Castle p. 401 95 Pouldram strong Fort. p. 402 96 High-Archall a strong Garrison p. 403 97 Bridgenorth Town p. 403 98 Portland Castle p. 404 99 Exmouth Fort. p. 404 100 Dennington Castle p. 404 101 Ruthin Castle p. 408 102 The City of Exeter with all its strong Forts p 411 103 Barnstable Towne and Castle p. 412 104 St. Michaels Mount p. 412 105 Titbury Castle p. 413 106 Aburisthwait Castle p. 412 107 Dunster Castle p 412 108 Woodstock Garrison p 413 109 Bridgenortâ— Castle p. 413 110 Newark a strong Garrison p. 419 111 Banbury Castle p. 421 112 Hartlebury Castle p 422 113 Ludlow Town and Castle p. 422 114 Muschamp-bridge and Fort. p. 327 115 All Pembrook-shire reduced p. 277 116 Padstow in Cornwal p. 386 117 Bostol Garrison p. 443 118 Carnarvan Towne and Castle p. 443 119 Dudley Castle p 444 Beaumorris Towne and Castle p. 446 120 Oxford p 446 A Catalogue of all the famous Defeates or Field-fights and glorious Victories obtained by the Parliaments Forces since the midst of June 1645. 1 THe most famous set Battaile and glorious Victory by Gods great mercy obtained at Nasebie p. 159 2 A brave Defeat given to the Enemy at Kiddarminster in Worcestershire p. 3 A brave Defeat given to the enemies on the Welch side of the River Dee p. 4 The famous Victory obtained through fire and water over Gorings forces at Langport in the West p. 190 5 The Westerne Clubmen beaten out of the Field upon Hambleton hill by the Parliaments forces p. 253 6 A brave Defeat given to the enemy neare Stamford in Lincolnshire p. 251 7 The brave Victory obtained over our Welch enemies at Coleby-moore in Wales neare Haverford west p. 255 8 A brave Defeat given to the enemie neare Redding p. 261 9 The great and most famous Victory obtained by our deare Brethren of Scotland over Montrosse p. 270 10 A brave Defeat given to the enemy at Kiddarminster p. 276 11 The famous Victory obtained against the Kings Forces going to relieve Chester at Houten-Health p. 278 12 A brave Defeat given to the enemy neare Oxford p. 286 13 A brave Defeat given to the enemies at Farringdon by Abbington forces p. 294 14 A brave Defeat given to the enemies forces of Banbury conducting Rupert and Maurice to Newark p. 296 15 The famous Victory obtained over the Lord Digby and Sir Mar. Langdale at Sherburn in Yorkshire p. 297 16 A brave Defeat given to the enemy neare Denbigh Castle intending to releive Chester p. 304 17 A brave Defeat given to the enemy at Holt-bridge p. 305 18 Another famous Defeat given to Digby and Langdale marching into Scotland to Montrosse
p. 306 19 A third shattering and spoyling of Digbies scattered Forces till they were quite brought to nothing p. 314 20 A brave Defeat given to the enemy neare unto Cannon Froom p. 318 21 A very brave Defeat given to the Lord Ashton wherein himselfe was slaine p. 320 22 A brave Defeat given to the enemy in Gloucestershire wherein that French Renegado Major Deut was slaine p. 324 23 A brave Field-Victory obtained over the enemy besides the taking of the Garrison at Bovie-Tracie p. 341 24 A brave Defeat given to the enemy at Wallingford Garrison by Abbington forces p. 352 25 A brave Defeat given to the enemy at Cark neare unto Stafford p. 358 26 Plimouth releeved and totally unbesieged and set at liberty with a brave Victory p. 348 27 A brave Defeat given to the enemy at Ashby De la Zouch p. 104 363 28 A brave Victory obtained by our renowned Generall Sir Thomas Fairfax at Torrington in the West p. 365 29 A brave Victory obtained by Major Generall Laughorne at Cardiffe p. 370 Abbington most fiercely assaulted and bravely defended and preserved p. 375 A brave Defeat given to the enemy at Wareham p. 175 A brave Defeat given to the enemy in Cheshire p. 175 A brave Defeat given to the enemy by Colon. Venables in Cheshire p. 180 A brave Defeat given to the enemy neare Farrindon p. 406 30 A brave Defeat given to the enemy by Colonell Moore p. 382 31 A brave Defeat given to the enemy at St. Cullumb in the West p. 388 32 Sir William Vaughan well beaten by Captaine Ashley and the Committee of Shrewsburies brave activity p. 396 33 The famous Fight and glorious Victorie obtained against Sir Jacob Ashley p. 397 34 A brave Defeat given to the Kings Horse neare Farringdon p. 294 35 A brave Defeat given to Denbigh Forces by Colonell Miâ—on p. 409 36 A brave Defeat given to the Raglanders by Sir Trevor Williams p. 410 And yet to make the worke of the Lord more excellent and admirable unto our eyes and hearts I have here also thouâ—h it very pertinent to the close of this our most famous History and Parliamentary Chronicle to give the Reader another Ocular Map and summary sight of all as neare as possible I could the Earles Lords Knights Colonells Lieutenant Colonells Serjeant-Majors Majors Captaines and Gentlemen of worth and quality to goe no lower lest we should run Ad infinitam slaine by the hand of Gods wrath in fight and cut off by the hand of Justice for Treason against the State on the Kings Party since this most unhappy and unnaturall Civill Warre began among us in this our sinfull and therefore thus distressed Kingdome besides very many such others as could not nominatim be yet made knowne unto us Psalme 58. 10 11. The Righteous shall rejoyce when he seeth Gods vengeance on the wicked and shall wash his feet in their blood so that a man shall say verily there is a God that Judgeth the earth The Slaine on the Kings side 1 THe Earle of Lindsey the Lord Generall of the Kings Army that appeared in the Field at first against the Parliament Part 2. Page 197 2 The Lord George Stuart being Lord of Aubigniè in France p. 2 p. ibidem 3 The Lord John Stuart p. 3 p. 190 4 The Lord Bernhard Stuart Earle of Litchfield p. 4. p. 281 All these three brave young Lords being of the bloud Royall and all three brothers to the Duke of Lenox 5 The Earle of Northampton p. 2. p. 287 6 The Earle of Denbigh p. 2. p. 296 7 The Earle of Carnarvan p. 2. p. 420 8 The Earle of Sunderland p. 2. p. ibid 9 The Earle of Kingstone p. 3 p. 7. 10 The Earle of Strafford beheaded for Treason on the Tower-hill p. 1. p. 31 11. The Lord Grandison p. 2 p. 420 12 The Lord Faukland p. 2 p. ibid 13 The Lord Carey Son to the Earle of Monmouth p. 3. p. 277 14 The Lord Ashton p. 4 p. 320 15 The Marquesse of Viville a French Lord. p. 2. p. 415 16 The Arch-Prelate of Canterbury beheaded for Treason on Tower-hill p. 4. p. 86 17 Generall Cavendish p. 3 p. 9 18 Generall Mynne p. 4. p. 4 19 Sir Edward Varney p. 2 p. 195 20 Sir John Harper p. 2. p. 243 21 Sir Bevill Greenvill Son to the Marquesse of Hartfort p. 2 p. 381 22 Sir George Bowles p. 3. p. 47 23 Sir William Wentworth brother to the Earl of Strafford p. 3. p. 144 24 Sir Francis Daâ—res neare kinsman to the Lord Dacres p. 3 p. ibid 25 Sir William Lambton p. ib 26 Sir Marmaduke Loudson p. ibid 27 Sir Thomas Metton p. ibid 28 Mounsieur Saint Paul a French Gentleman p. ibid 29 Sir Richard Goodhill ib. 30 Sir Alexander Carew beheaded for Treason on the Tower-hill p. 4. p. 86 31 Sir John Hotham beheaded also for Treason on Tower hill p. 4. p. 86 32 Sir Henry Gage p. 4. p 33 Sir William Crosts p. 4 p. 178 34 Sir Thomas Nott. p. 4. p. 180 35 Sir Owen p. 4 p. 122 36 Sir Brian Stapleton p. 4. p 37 Sir Francis Carnabie p. 4 p. 38 Sir Richard Hutton p. 4 p. 39 Colonell Monroe p. 2. p. 19â— 40 Col. Wane p. 3. p. 144 41 Col. Ewers Nephew to the Lord Ewers p. ibid 42 Col. Roper brother to the Lord Balting-glasse p. ibid 43 Col. Slingsby Son to Sir William Slingsby p. ibid 44 Col. Fenwick eldest Son to Sir John Fenwick p. ibid 45. Col. Prideaux p. ibid 46 Col. Atkins p. ibid 47 Col. Marrow p. 4. p. 11 48 Col. Baynes p. 4. p. 16 49 Col. Conyers p. 4. p. 16 50 Generall Gorings brother p. 4. p. 59 51. Col. Houghton Son to Sir Gilb. Houghton p. 3. p. 144 52 Generall Gorings Quarter-master Gen. of horse p. 4. p 53 Gen. Gorings Quarter-master of foot p. 4. p 54 Col. Phillips p. 4. p. 123 55 Lieutenant Col. Ward p. 2 p. 381 56 Lieut. Col. Howard p. 2 p. ibid 57 Lieut. Col. Bowles p. 3 p. 97 58 Lieut. Col. Lisle p. 3 p. 144 59 Lieut. Col. Stonywood p. 3 p. 16 60 Seajeant Major Beaumont p. 2. p. 263 61 Ser. Major Purvey p. 2 p. 269 62 Ser. Major Smith p. 2 p. 3. 10 63 Ser. Maj. Lower p. 2. p. 381 64 Ser. Maj. Wells p. 2. p. 405 65 The Major of Preston Mr. Adams p. 2. p. 269 Major Heskith p. 4. p. 16 67 Major Trevillian p. 4. p 68 Major Hatton Farmar p. 4. p 94 69 Major Pilkington p. 4 p. 138 70 Major Duet p. 4. p. 324 71 Major Heynes p. 4. p 72 Major Pollard p. 4. p. 356 73 Captaine Wrey p. 2. p 74 Captaine Bins p. 2. p 1 75 Captaine Houghton p. 2 p. 69 76 Captaine Heâ—ham beheaded on the Tower-hill p. 4. p 77 Captaine Baggot p. 4. p 78 Captaine James p. 2 p. 381 79 Capt. Cornisham p. 2 p. 110 80 Capt. Plunket p. 3. p. 110 81 The Kings Standard-bearer
p. 39 Prosperous Affaires in the North. p. 3â— Abbingtons prosperous Affaires against their adversaries p. â—8â— The Marquesse of Argyles Speech concerning Propositions for Peace p. 4â—â— B. BOulsover Castle taken p. â— Sir William Brereton beates the enemy at Tarvin p. 11 Sir William Brereton beates the enemy at Malpasse p. 16 The enemy bravely beaten at Beâ—sley Skonce p. 35 The blessing of him that dwelt in the Bush seene in the West p. 39 The enemy beaten at Beechley p. 42 Dr. Bastwick releeved in Prison and released out of Prison p. 45 Dr. Bastwicks just praise p. ibid The enemy bravely beaten at Bever Valo p. 61 Sir Thomas Fairfax comes before Bristoll p. 260 The enemy beaten at Bishops-Castle in Shropshire p. 262 The enemy beaten at Bridge-north p. 268 The enemy bravely beaten at Banbury p. 29â— Bloud of Germany p. 322 Brecknock in Wales submits to the Parliament p. 328 Sir William Breretons brave Victory neare Chester p. 97 Major Brownes brave services about Oxford p. 108 Bleching-house surrendred p. 141 Major Gen. Brownes brave defeat given to the enemy about Oxford p. 141 A brave Victory at Brampton-Bush p. 142 Major Generall Browne and Major Generall Cronwell compared to David and Jonathan p. 151 C. THe Kings cruell Counsell of Warre resolution against our Forces in Cornwall p. 19 Cornish-mens cruelty p. 20 Tender Consciences regarded in Parliament p. 29 A Committee to order our Army p. 36 Colonell Ceeleyes brave exploits p. 55 Earle of Cleveland taken Prisoner p. 59 Col. Cooke taken Prisoner p. 74 Câ—owland taken p. â—â— Conspiracies of the enemies discovered p. â—â— Cumhire-Abbey in Wales taken p. 83 Common Prayer-Booke abolished p. 86 Cardigan Town and Castle taken p. 8â— Kings Commissioners taken at Shaftsbury p. 252 Sir Alexander Carew beheaded p. 86 Canterburies Arch-Prelates Condemnation p. 86 â—â—men routed p. 353 Col. Cromwells valour p. 253 Chester Suburbs won p. 273 Col. Copleyes brave Victory at Sherburne in York-shire p. 297 Canterburies Arch-Prelate beheaded p. 92 Col. Crafords good service p. 98. p. 116 Compton-house bravely assaulted p. 99 The happy concurrence of both Houses of Parliament p. 127 Cambridge highly priviledged p. 135 The Clemency of the noble Generall p. Collections in Churches for Chester p. 364 Court of Wards Voted downe p. 369 The enemy beaten at Chester p. 157 Cornwalls danger p. 378 Cornwalls Gentry come in to the Parliament p. 383 The Kings Cabinet of Letters taken at Nasebie fight sent to the Parliament and read p. 175 Care taken for choosing good Officers in London p. 82 Mr. Case began the monethly Morning Prayers at London p. 207 Three Commissions presented to the Parliament from Bridge-water p. 201 Commissioners sent to Scotland p. 190 A Committee for the Scots Army p. 190 Clubmen in the Well p. 201 Clubmen come in to the Parliament p. 196 D. A Brave Defeat given to the enemy at Walch-poole p. 5 A brave defeat given to the enemy by Col. Middleton p. 9 Col. Doddington takes the Lord Oglesby prisoner p. 11 A brave defeat given to the enemy by Sir William Brereton p. 11 A deâ—eat given to P. Rupert p. 11 A brave defeat given to the enemy by Sir Jâ—hn Meldrum p. 12 A brave defeat given to the enemy by Col. Rudgely p. 22 A brave defeat given to the enemy by Sir Thomas Middleton p. â—â— A famous defeat given to the enemies at Mountgomery Castle p. 30. â—â— A brave defeat given to the enemy at Helmsley Castle p. 6â— A brave defeat given to the enemy in Lincolnshire p. 70 A brave defeat given to the enemy at Salisbury p. 74 A brave defeat given to the enemy at Sedbury p. 76 A brave defeat given to the enemy by Col. Holburne in the West p. 77 A brave defeat given to the enemy at Tong Castle p. 84 Directions for Worshipestablished p. 85 A famous defeat given to the enemy by Major Gen. Laughorne p. 255 Sir Lewis Dives brought prisoner to the Parliament p. 259 A brave defeat given to the enemy neare Reading p. 261 A brave defeat given to the Kings Horse at Kiddarminster p. 276 Lord Digbies Letters taken at Sherburne in York-shire read in Par. p. 303 The Demands of Sir Ralph Hopton p. 392 A Declaration of the Knights Gentry c. of Glamorgan-shire p. 317 A brave defeat given to Col. Gerrard before Cardigan in Wales p. 104 A brave defeat given to the enemy at Heightly-house p. â—08 A brave defeat given to the enemy neare Dennington p. 111 A brave defeat given to Skellum Greenvile at Plimouth p. 111 A brave defeat given to Prince Maurice at Holt-bridge p. 122 A brave defeat given to the enemy by Sir William Waller p. 123 The enemy beaten at the Devizes by Sir William Waller p. 125 The danger of Treaties with Malignants p. 344 The Kings Declaration to 〈◊〉 in Ireland p. 346 A brave defeat given to the enemy a 〈◊〉 p. 136 A Ship taken at Dartmouth p. 359 A brave defeat given to P. Maurice in Worcestershire p. 137 Divers brave defeats given to the enemy about Oxford p. 140 The danger and deliverance of noble Col. Massie p. 144 A brave defeat given to the enemy at Langford-house in Hampshire p. 153 A brave defeat given to the enemy at Hougham-house p. 157 A Dunkirk Frigot taken by our ships p. 401 The Discipline of Sir Thomas Fairfaxes army p. 150 Dudley Castle shrewdly put to it p. 186 A Declaration of the Scots Commissioners to our Parliament p. 439 E. THe enemy beaten at Ormskirk p. 12 Eye-salve for Malignants eyes p. 25 A brave exploit of Col. Massies p. 34 The just Enconium of Col. Massie p. 〈◊〉 Englands just cause to love Scotland p. â—â— A brave exploit of Col. Stones p. 66 A brave exploit of Col. Sydenhams p. 72 Divers exploits against the enemy p. 87 His Excellencies brave deportment with the Kings Commissioners in the West p. 253 The enemy beaten at Plimouth p. 96 Englands Blood p. 323 The noble Earle of Essex late Lord Generall his good Service rewarded p. 151 Evesham taken p. 153 A brave exploit against the enemy by Wareham Garrison p. 175 A brave exploit against 〈◊〉 p. 30 The godly education of the Kings Children considered p. 128 The blessed effects of the monethly Morning Prayers and Preaching in London p. 207 Hopefull effects of the Kings comming in to the Scots p. 422. F. OUr Forces prosperous successe against Prince Rupert in Lancashire p. 12 Colonell Foxes brave performances p. 13. 27 Our Foot-forces in danger in Cornwall in the West p. 19 Fidelity of the noble Lord Generall to the Parliament p. 37 The Fight at Newbery p. 57 Major Fenicks good Service p. 262 Free-holders of Glamorgan-shire their Declaration p. 317 Sir Erasmus De La Fountaines House p. 103 Sir Thomas Fairfax come to London to be Generalissimo of all the Armies in the Kingdome p. 109 Sir Thomas Fairfaxes new modell'd army resolved on p. 127 Sir Thomas Fairfaxes
The Plot against Lyn-Regis p. 79 A Plot in the North frustrated p. 259 Major Gen. Poyntz his activity and fidelity rewarded p. 281 The Parliaments piety p. 293 The Parliaments happy continuation a great mercy p. 315 Preservation of London from the plague of pestilence a great mercy p. 415 Parliaments formerly made staulking-horses to get Subsidies p. 322 A prize taken at Plimouth p. 323 The Parliaments integrity against Protections and Bribes p. 325 Serjeant Major Purefoyes brave valour at Compton-house p. 99 A brave Passage of providence at Sir Erasmus Fountaines house p. 103 Pretended peace at Uxbridge p. 104 The Parliaments care of the City of London p. 337 Plimouths singular good successe against the enemy p. 340 Partshall Garrison taken p. 108 Plimouth totally releeved and freed from Siege p. 348 Praises encouraged p. 365 Serjeant Major Purefoyes good Services about Warwick p. 146 A Petition to the Parliament about the Kingdomes sad condition p. 155 A Petition to the Parliament by the inhabitants of Westminster p. 188 A Plot of the Westerne Clubmen discovered p. 201 A Petition of the Ministerr of the two Counties about Church-Governement p. 434 Propositions for a well-grounded Peace resolved on p. 444 Q. NO Quarter to be granted to Irish Rebels p. 56 The Queene of Swedens desire to associate with England p. 84 Queene Elizabeths just Commemoration p. 320 R. PRince Robert defeated p. 11 12 13. Col. Rudgely bravely beates the enemy p. 22 Royalists plot to cousen the Kingdome p. 37 Rad Castle taken p. 40 Captaine Redmans good service in Northamptonshire p. 83 The enemy defeated about Redding p. 261 Master Rouses Psalmes p. 319 Rochels Bloud p. 323 The enemy defeated at Rumsey p. 136 An excellent Remonstrance of our Brethren of Scotland p. 183 The City of Londons most excellent and famous Remonstrance p. 426 Reformation of Religion taken into consideration p. 257 S. SHeffild Castle taken p. 7 Staley-house taken p. 9 Major Straughans brave performances in the West p. 15 Major Skippon bravely encourages his Souldiers p. 19 Schismes Petitioned against p. 28 Reasons of slandering of our Brethren of Scotland p. 39 Col. Sydenhams good service p. 62 Capt. Stone his brave service p. 66 Sir John Strange-waies house a strong Garrison stormed p. 67 Col. Sydenhams brave service p. 72 Selfe-denying Ordinance p. 76 The Swedes desire to associate with England p. 84 Sir George Strange-waies brought Prisoner to the Parliament p. 259 A foule and false slander laid on the Parliament by Royalists in Wales p. 263 Major Generall Skippon made Governour of Bristoll p. 268 Our Brethren of Scotlands Victory over Montrosse in Scotland p. 270 Scotlands bloud p. 323 Scarborough Town Church and Haven taken p. 110 Shrewsbury Towne and Castle taken p. 113 A brave victory obtained at Sligo in Ireland p. 342 Major Gen. Skippons brave service about the settlement of the new Modell'd Army p. 132 A Ship taken at Dartmouth with Letters of importance p. 359 A spur to quicken the spirit of praises p. 365 Captaine Stones good service against the enemy p. 152 The Scots advance to Nottingham p. 174 A Ship of Ireland taken at Padstow of much concernment p. 386 Our Brethren of Scotlands excellent Remonstrance to the King p. 183 Shrewsburies Committees just praise p. 443 The Scots retreat from Newark to Newcastle p. 419 The enemy beaten at Stoke-new-house p. 107 T. TInmouth Castle taken p. 63 Free Trading at Newcastle p. 69 Taunton-Dean in the West releeved p. 81 The enemy beaten at Tong Castle p. 84 Mr. Tomlins made a Baron of the Exchequer p. 282 Thanksgiving for Londons welfare p. 315 The Treaty at Uxbridge for peace p. 104 Major Temple bravely beates the enemy neare Dennington p. 111 Treaties with Malignants dangerous p. 344 Thanksgiving for Chester p. 364 Tauntons most happy releefe p. 174 Tauntons Souldiers good services rewarded p. 151 Thanksgiving for Langport the manner thereof p. 197 V. A Brave Victory obtained neare Chester by Sir William Brereton p. 97 A brave Victory obtained by Colonell Massies Forces in the Forrest of Deane p. 116 Major Gen. Vrreyes brave Victory against Montrosse in Scotland p. 134 Uxbridge Treaty p. 104 A brave Victory at the Devizes p. 123 W. THe enemy beaten at Welch-poole p. 5 Wareham yeelded to the Parliament p. 5 Welbeck-house taken p. 7 Winkfield Mannour besieged p. 9 Winkfield Mannour taken p. 14 Wales in good condition for the Parliament p. 302 The Governour of Warwicks brave service in Worcester-shire p. 107 Weymouth bravely regained p. 117 Sir William Wallers brave Victory at the Devizes p. 123 Court of Wards Voted downe p. 369 Warehams Garrisons good service p. 175 Inhabitants of Westminsters Petition p. 181 Y. THe Duke of YORK to come from Oxford to Saint Jameses p. 445 FINIS A Summary relation of the state of the Kingdom at the Conclusion of the third paâ—â— of this Parliamentary-Chronicle Varietas in omnibus delectaâ— The Title of this fourth Part of our Parliamentary Chronicle justified England the Burning-Bush not consumed August 1644. Colonell Massies Letter to the Speaker of the House of Commons in Parliament A branch of the Bush heer on fire but not burned Generall Mynne slain a brave Victory obtained A brave defeat given to the enemy at Welchpool in Mountgomery shire The prize and prisoners taken The shrewd strait that Sir Thomas Dallison was put unto The Town of Wareham yeelded to Colonell Sydenham A Letter from the Lord of Inchiquin out of Ireland occasioned the speedy yeelding of this Town Twelve brave Horses surprised by the Garrison of Stafford The Noble Earl of Manchesters advance from York Welbeck House taken by the Earl of Manchester Sheffeild-castle taken The manner of assaulting the Castle The prize taken in the Castle The Country gave my Lords Souldiers 500. pound to drink for their good Service Boulsover-castle also yeelded to the Earl of Manchester The prize taken in this Castle Staley-House also taken Wingfleld-Mannour besteged by Darby forces A brave defeat given to the Enemy by Colonell Middleten Another gallant Victory obtained by Colonell Middleton A third brave deâ—eat given to the Enemy by Col. Middleton Sir John Meldrum defeats the Enemy in Lancashire Colonell Doddington takes the Lord Ogleby prisoner A brave defeat given to the Enemy by Sir WilliaÌ„ Brereton Colonell Marrow slain Prince Robber with two Regiments of horse defeated The valiant performances of Sir William Breretons forces in the fight at Tarvin Another most brave defeat given to the Enemy by Sir John Meldâ—um at Ormskirk 800 Horse and 300 prisoners taken A breif note how the Lord prospeâ—ed our proceedings against bloody Prince Robber in and about Lancashire Almost 2000. of Ruperts Horse taken by ours besides prisoners A breif relation of some active and victorious performances of Colonell Fox A prize taken at Vpton-Warren Another brave prize taken by Colonell Fox A third prize also taken by Colonell Foxes Forces What a terrour Colonell Fox was to all
his enemies about him Winck field Mannour taken by Sir Joh. Gell An Ordinance of Parliament for the Association of the Western Counties A brave most Heroick exploit of Serjeant Major Stranghan against the Enemy in the West A most brave defeat given to the Enemy at Malpasse by Sir William Breretons Forces The Enemy was about 2000 strong we but 800. The Enemy is routed The prize and prisoners taken Commanders slain Common souldiers slain A most perâ—idious plot and dangerous Design to have blown up our Magazine and destroyed our Army at Lestithiell in Cornwall Two wilde-fire Engines conveyed into our close waggons where were 60 barrels of powder The manner of the preservation described The two Engines sent up to the Parliamenâ— wher they were publikely shewn seen The Burning-Bush noâ— consumed Dan. 3. Exod. 15. 11. September 1644. Our formidable Parliamentary Army coopt up in Cornwall in the West and in great danger but most mightily preserved and delivered Heer was indeed the Bâ—â—ning Bush not Consumed The Kings cruell Councell of Warre resolved to give no quarter but to put all to the Sword Major Generall Skippons 〈◊〉 but brave speech â—esolution to live â—â— die with his Souldiers The fight begun Not only quarter but also fair conditions granted to our Souldiers The most perfidious disloyalty of the Enemy in violating al the conditions agreed on Heer again the Burning-Bush not Consumed This deliverance of our Souldiers was a singular merâ—y of the Lord. That this miscarriage of our Army was a plain plot of trechery Renowned Major Generall Skippon perceived this plot but too late A notable and most pregnant proof or ground of the knowledge of this disaster in the West to be a plot Sir Thomas Middletons ammunition safely conveyed unto Oswestâ—y from Wem for the Welsh Affaires A brave defeat given to the Enemy by valiant Colonell Rudgeley A brave defeat given to the Enemy by Sir Tho. Middleton Mountgomery Castle taken by Sir Thomas Middleton The manner of taking Morton-Corbet-Castle by Wem Garrison Morton-Corbet-Castle taken by five men only who first entered the Castle Some Collyrâ—nâ— or eye-salve to heal if it were possible Malignants sore eyes Faires freetrading in all the Associated Counties The admirable mercy of God to London and Westminster in the pure and powerfull preaching of the Word The sad bad condition of the Counties places under the Royalists power and tyranny Contraria juxta se posita magis illucescunt Colonell Foxes constant activity and good Services The worthy Leivtenant of the Towre of London Alderman Pennington apprehended the two Irish-Rebels Macquire Mac-mahoon who had made an escape The manner of taking the Rebels The City Ministers petition to the Parliam against novel upstart Schismes for a settlement of Church Government Clear demonstrations of the Parliaments pious integrity to expedite and compleat the work of Reformation Tender consciences taken into consideration by the Parliament Ordination of Ministers taken also into consideration established A brave exploit performed by Leicestershire forces against Rob-Carryer Hastings A most famous and renowned Victory obtained by Sir William Breretâ—n Sir Tho. Middleton Sir John Meldrum at the raising of the sâ—ege before Mountgomery-Castle Mountgomery-Castle besieged by the Enemy as soon as wee had taken it Sir Tho. Middleton speedily inviâ—es Sir Wil. Brereton Sir John Meldrum to his assistance A brave prize lately before taken from the Enemy Our Army consisting of 3000 horse and foot come neer the Enemy to the Castle The Enemies Army consisting of 5000 horse and foot commanded by the Lord Byron Sir Iohn Meldrum had the ordering and managing of this whole action The fight was very desperate dubious on both sides The admirable courage of our brave Commanders and Leaders Sir Wil. Fairfax mortally wounded in this fight Our extremity was Gods opportunity The Enemies whole Army routed and put to flight The slain and prisoners taken in this notable fight Sir Will. Brereton his Cheshire forces did most remarkably in this fight Our losse and slain Our benefits by this famous Victory The Burning-Bush not consumed again A most memorable worthy act of renowned Sir Joh. Meldrum toward slain Sir Will. Fairfax his surviving sorrowfull Lady The most pious and precious speech of the virtuous Lady Fairfax A brave exploit of renowned Colonell Massies in the taking of the Town Castle of Monmouth The Town and Castle of Monmouth taken by Col. Massie by a stratagem A brave 〈◊〉 given to the Enemy by Col. 〈◊〉 Massie at Betsley Sconce in the Forrest of Dean The Burning-Bush 〈…〉 Deut. 33. 16. Psal 89. 6. 8. October 1644. A Committee of both Houses of Parliament appointed to be joyned with the Army for joynt consultation in the actions motions thereof A more clear demonstration of the plot against our Army in the West Dangerous Instructions to tempt our Army to revolt from the Parl. to the King One of the Instructions The Lord Generals noble â—delity to the State The false â—alâ—â—cious and malicious pâ—ottings of the Royalists to couzen the Kingdom The cheif reason why our Brethren of Scotland are so sâ—andered and maligned by Cavaliers and Malignants The admirable courage of the Commanders Souldiers of the Plimouth horse The Plimouth horse put the King himself into a terrible and frighâ—ing fear A most ignoble disloyall act of King Charles in Cornwall The blessing of him that dwelt in the Bush was on our Army in the West Most successful proceedings of affaires in Scotland and in the Northern parts of our kingdom Many Array-men in the Northern parts surprised by the Country people The taking of Rad-castle in North-wales by Sir Thomas Middleton The prisoners prizes taken in the Castle The Ordinance for Ordination of Ministers in about London The names of the Presbyters appointed for Ordination of Ministers The manner of examining those that are to bee Ordained Ministers Care taken for an augmentation of Ministers small Livings and for future competent maintainance for them A most brave famous exploit performed by that most renowned CoÌ„mander Colâ—n Massie upon the Kings Forces at Beechley The extraordinary danger of death that noble Col. Massie was in at this 〈◊〉 Sir John Winter that grand Papist being in a great danger of death tumbled himself down a hill to save his life The prisoners prizes taken The loss which wee sustained in this exploit A breif Encomium to renowned Col. Massie An Irish ship taken at White-Haven in Cumberland A brave prize taken by the Governour of Pool And Another by Colonell Lambert Much to bee honoured Dr. John Bastwick reâ—â—ived in prison and released out of prison by the Parliament Dr. Bastwick exchanged for Col. Hudlestone returned from Knaresborâ—ugh Castle to LondoÌ„ Dr. Bastwick like an impregnable Rock â—â—turned true to his pious principles More excellent performances by noble renowned Sir Too Middleton in North Waleâ— The relation of the taking of Newcastle
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 the brave defeat at Abbington The Enemies gave
Abbington an alarm and possest themselves of Cullum Bridge Rupert Maurice were present Their strength 3000 horse foot The charge on the Enemy begun Cullum Bridge recovered by ours Maâ—or Bradberry slain The Enemy put to a shamefull retreat Major Hatton Farmer slain 5 Irish men hanged A rare clear victory Sir Henry Gage Governour of Oxford slain in this fight A great mercy and preservation to us Prince Ruperts proud brag to be Master of Abbington 1 King 20. 1. 1. Rupert notably jeered for his brave Victory Another passage of divine providence The enemy most bravely beaten at Plymouth The Enemy had gotten the 4 outworks of Plymouth yet were beaten out of them all again Colon. Holborn his good service in the West The New Modell of an Army of 21000 horse and foot voted in Parliament An Ordinance for raising Many to maintain the new Army A brave victory obtained by ever to bee renowned Sir William Breretons forces neer unto Chester A brave peice of service performed by valiant Colo. Craford against Colon. Bleyer and his party The County of Kent petition the Parliament for their setting forward of the Self-denying Ordinance A suddain and most dangerous assault of about 1200 of the Enemy upon Compton House Ours bravely sally out upon the Enemy and beat them back 40 of ours most bravely beat the Enemy Sir William and Sir Charles CoÌ„pton beaten back and the Outworks recovered The great drawbridg recovered the Enemy coopt up A fierce fight on both sides Sir Charles and Sir Will Compton proffer to parley but rejected A fierce assault made on the enemy in the stable The Enemy enforced to retreat be gone The slain and the prizes and prisoners taken A most remarkable Victory Deliverance Another brave defeat given to a part of the foresaid Enemies horse in their hoped return home by Northampton Horse The Burning-Bush not consumed A breif gratefull recitall of all this last Moneths Parliamentary mercies Psal 76. 4 5. February 1644. A brave passage of Gods providence at Sir Erasmus de la Fountains house neer unto Melton Mowberry Ashby Cavaleiâ—s beaten soundly at Cole-Orton in Leicestershire A brave defeat given to Colo. Gerard before Cardigan in Wales Col. Laughorn bravely releives Colonell Jones at Cardigan The prisoners and prizes The Treaty for a pretended Peace at Vxbridge Buckingham Malignanâ—s petition the Parliament Commissioners in the midst of the Treaty A notorious plot by the Buckingham petition against the Parliament A Declaration prepared and printed at Oxford to be spread over the 3 Kingdoms into forain parts touching the cause of the breach of the Treaty The true cause of the dissolution of the Treaty at Vxbridge The wicked Cessation of arms in Ireland justified by the Kings Commission at Vxbridge Malum consilium consulioribus pessiâ—â—â— A brave peice of service performed by Major Bridges Governour of Warwick at Stok-New-house in Worcestershire The House taken by storm and all in it Partshall Garrison taken by brave Major Stones Governour of Eccleshall Castle Major Generall Brown active about Oxford A brave defeat given to the Enemy by Colo. Lamberts forces at Heightley in Yorkeshire Ever to be honoured Sir Tho. Fairfax come to London and sent for to the house of Commons in Parliament to receive from them the honour of Generall of all the Kingdomes forces Scarborough Town Church Haven taken by valiant Sir John Meldrum Cholmley fled into the Castle endevours an escape by Sea Cholmley had 5 Dunkirk Vessels with him at Scarborough A Letter of Sir Hugh Cholmleys intercepted A brave defeat given to the Enemy by Major Temple neer Dennington Another brave defeat given to that apostate Skellum Greenvil at Plymouth The brave resolution of Plimouth men in winning Mount Stamford and beating away the Enemy The brave and strong Town of Shrewsbury surprized and taken The Town of Shrewsbury entred by ours The Castle taken The prisoners and prizes The Parl. gratitude for this good news A remarkable nore singular passage of divine providence in this famous victory Apsley-House in Shropshire taken by Sir William Brereton Colo. Crafords good service at Roesham neer Oxford A most brave Victory obtained by Colon. Massies forces in the For rest of Dean The Burning-Bush not consumed 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. Mat. 28. 20. Psal 46. 11. March 1644. Melcomb-Regis bravely maintained Weymouth most admirably regained by Colon Sydenham Colo. Sydenham necessitated to fire the ships in Weymouth Haven The Chappel-fort in Weymouth regained And a brave booty therein obtained 2 Letters from Sir Lewis Dives intercepted Goring is extremly vext at the losse of the Chappell for t Gorings resolution to fall upon Chappel for t the Town of Melcomb at once discovered and prepared for The treachery of the Townesmen of Melcomb The Enemy tho trecherously let in to Melcomb yet bravely beaten our again with a great losse The Enemy also basely fly out of Weymouth And leave much good prize behinde them Goring Dives marched away from Weymouth to Dorchester The visible most apparent hand of God in all this service Two ships came in unto the Parliaments possession at Weymouth A day of Solemn Thanksgiving at Christ Church in London 2000 li. ordered to be paid to Weymouth The Kings own Life guard Troop of horse taken by us neer unto Oxford A brave defeat given to Prince Maurice his forces at Holt-bridge by valiant Leivtenant Colonell Jones The slain A brave defeat given to the Enemy by Sir William Wallerâ— forces The slain A great victory obtained by Sir William Waller Leivtenant-Gen Cromwell against Colon. Long at the Devizes The activity of the brave Garrison of Abbington under valiant Major General Brown The Parliaments justly high respect to Abbington Garrison The happy concurrence of the House of Peeres with the Commons about the List of Sir Tho. Fairfaxes Commanders of his New Modell Army A malicious slander of the Malignants happily thwatted to their shame Order taken by the Parliament as well for the spirituall as the Martiall Discipline of the Army The Parliaments care for the godly education of the 2 young Princes at White-Hall by the Earl of Nortâ—umberland Colonell Massie gives the Enemy a defeat neeâ— unto Bristol Fidelity and good service rewarded encouraged by the Parliament The Burning-Bush not câ—nsumed Psal 92 4 5. Aprill 1645. A most singular sign of Gods love and good will to this poore Kingdome even the most happy harmony of Both Houses Divers brave exploits performed by renowned Generall Browns forcâ—s at Abbington Capt. English choakt in a Vault at Abbington Renowned Major Generall Skippon singular good service in reducing his Souldiers to the New-Mâ—delled-Army A brave victory obtained by Major Generall Vrrey against the Lord Montrosse in Scotland A Solemn day of Thanksgiving appointed kept in London c. for this great victory Cambridge is by the Parliament highly priviledged Learning like
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 Caus-Castle taken by the Committee of Shrewsburies forces and a brave Victory obtained by them besides Sir William Crofts slain A brave defeat given
to the Enemies by valiant Colonell Venables in Cheshire Heywoâ—th in Wilts taken by the forces of Sir Tho. Fairfax Sir Thomas Nott slain A sweet and summary recital of all the excellent Parliamentary mercies of this Moneth The Burning-Bush not consumed The Burning-Bush flourishing in flames 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. A succinct return of gratitude to God for all the great Parliamentary mercies of this Moneth Isai 42. 13. Chap. 29. 20. Psal 124. 1 2 3 4 5 c. July 1645. A day of humiliation appointed by Order of Parliament kept by the Assembly of Divines in several Churches in London to seek a blessing on our forces in the West At least 29 or 30 Carts load of Popish goods apprehended in a house in Long-Acre neer Covent Garden Our Brethren of Scotlands excellent Remonstrance presented to the King The Heads of it 1. 2. The Garrison of Dudley castle shrewdly put to it and â—orely defeated by our forces and our brethren of Scotland Dudley castle faced outfaced by the Governor of Stafford Carlile surrendred to our brethren the Scots Shrawarden-Castle in Shropâ—shire surrendred to Colon. Macworth Our most renowned Sir Thomas Fairfax and noble Major Generall Massie met neer Taunton Taunton most happily releived a third time Great plenty of provision and a full Market already at Taunton The breif but deserved honour of our renowned Generall A brave defeat given to the Enemy at Barkley castle A pious Petition exhibited to the Parliament by the Inhabitants of Westminster The prosperous successe of our forces at Abbington under the Command of valiant Major Generall Brown Commissioners sent to the Parliament in Scotland a Committee sent to the Scotsh army The famous defeat given to Gorings army at Lang-port in the West The first victorious blow given by renowned Major Generall Massie The prisoners prizes taken at the first onset Major Generall Massies policy in pursuite of his Enemies Our renowned Gen. Sir Thomas Fairfax prepares for a fight The Enemy also drew forth into the field The straits of our forces in the Rivers The effects of the foresaid defeat The Enemy put into an amazed rout flight Major Bethels brave courage and resolution Col. Desborough bravely charges the Enemy helps Major Bethel The Enemy put to â—light The Enemies in their flight most desperately did set the Town of Lang-port on fire Isa 43. 2 3. God the great and only giver of this famous Victory His Instruments therein Major Bethel Major Harrison that brought the news of this victory rewarded Observations speciall serious notes upon this â—amous victory 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. The Western Clubmen The Clubmen come in to the Parliaments party The manner of the celebration of the Solemn Thanksgiving-day in London for the famous Victory over our Enemies at Langport Bridgewater taken by storm A most exact precious return of our Prayers One Mr. Peters presented 3 Commissions to the Parliament taken by Sir Tho. Fairfax in Bridgewater The plot and design of the Clubmen discovered Pontefract Castle surrendred to the Parliament Scarborough Castle surrendred to the Parliament Cannon Froom taken by our Brethren of Scotland A jewel of 500 li. sent by the Parliament to Generall Leven as a badge of honour to him Chadwick house in the West taken Rabby Castle surrendred to the Parliament Bathe also surrendred into the Parliaments possession with the manner thereof A most remarkable return or rather gracious prevention of Prayer Isa 65. Ibid. â— A most singularly pious motion as zealously as piously put into execution The Monethly morning prayers in London religiously begun by reverend Mr. Case The blessed effects and precious returnes of prayer ever since the foresaid free will-offering of daily â—orning prayers began June and July last justly intituled Menses Mirabiles The Burning-Bush not consumed Isa 54 17. Psal 115. Psal 32. 7. August 1645. A brave defeat given to the Enemy by Captaine Allen neer Stamford in Lincolnshire The taking of all the Kings Commissioners as they sate in Counsell at Shaftsbury and were brought Prisoners to Sherburne by Colonel Fleetwood His Excellencies most excellent demeanour with the Kings Commissioners in their Examinations The routing and dispersing of 2500 Club-men by Lieutenant Generall Cromwell upon Hambleton Hill neere Blanford in the West A famous defeat given to the Enemy in Wales by valiant and faithfull Major Generall Laughhorne The Prisoners and Prizes taken at Colby-Moore Haverford-West stormed taken both Towne and Castle Sherburne Castle stormed and taken by renowned Sir Tho. Fairfax The Prisoners and prizes taken The slaine on our side The Parliaments most pious and prudent care for the Reformation of matters in Religion The good condition of our Forces in the North and the Kings Plot there frustrated and his Forces defeated Sir Lewis Dives and Sir George Strangwaies brought prisoners to the Parliament Sir Thomas Fairfaxes Leaguer before Bristoll and the taking of the strong Fort called Ports-head point A brave defeat given to the Enemy neer Redding Ours worsted at the first by false intelligence The Enemy quite routed and a brave victory obtained Valiant Major Fenicks good Service at Bishops Castle in Shropshire The Burning-Bush unconsumed Psal 6â— 6 7. 8 September 1645. A most foul and false projected slander of the Royaiists to abuse the Parliament and people of Wales A day of Humiliation in the Generals Army before the storming of Bristoll Bristoll summoned Bristoll stormed and the manner thereof The disposall of all the Brigades and Regiments about Bristoll The Word Col. Rainsboroughs brave service on his part And Colonell Mountagues on his part Almost all the Town taken Rupert being fled into the Castle desires a Parley The Towne and Castle of Bristoll surrendred on Articles of Agreement Intelligence of the taking of Bristoll brought to the Parliament the Messengers rewarded Thanks returned to God for the thus regaining of the City of Bristoll The strength and Wealth of the City of Bristoll when it was taken The Enemies losse and our gaine at Bristoll Renowned religious Major Generall Skippon made Governour of Bristoll Shrewsburies defeat given to the Enemy at Bridge-North Gods speciall preservation of Lieutenant Col. Phips of Coventry from the danger of the Enemy The sudden most strange condition of Scotland by Montrosse The as sudden and most admirable alteration of things againe in Scotland to Gods glory and that Kingdomes comfort A briefe Relation of the brave and famous Victory obtained by our Brethren of Scotland against Montrosse in Scotland The fight begun Montrosse discomfited 100 Irish shot to death The Earle of Crawford slain The slaine in this Fight on the Enemies side The slaine on our side All Montrosses Bagge Baggage taken Observations on this Fight The relation of inserting this relation of Scotland into this our English
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
this A brave prize taken at Sea by Plymouth Garrison A brave defeat given to the enemie in Gloucestershire where Major Duet that French Renegado was slain Major Duet slaiâ—e The prisoners and prizes taken A Notable testimonie of the Parliaments integrity touching Protections and Bribes The Burning-Bush unconsumed 1. 2. Psal 60. 12. Isaiah 41. 10. 11. Psal 116 December 1645. Newark besieged and Muschamp Bridge and Fort taken by our Brethren of Scotland General Lesley made Commander in chiefe of all the Forces both English and Scottish before Newark The County of Brecknock in Wales comes in to the Parliament Latham House taken Fulford House taken Hereford surprized and taken by a brave stratagem Col. Morgan and Col. Birch provide to promote the designe The Souldiers sore march the first setting forth The whole armie come neer unto Hereford A Copie of the warrant which helped to win Hereford The manner of managing the busines with the Constable and his warrant The draw-bridge is let down The Constable knocks down the Centinell The Fire-locks rush out and haste to the City The Towne fully entred and obtained Lords and Knights 21. in number Leivtenant Colonells and Majors 10. in number besides Judge Jenkins Many Gentl. of Quality At least 2000. Papists The great consequence of the obtainning this City The Messengers of this good newes to the Parliament rewarded Orders of Parliament voted and confirmed upon this great providence of God 1 2 3 4 5 Great gratitude expressed by the Parliamenâ— both to God and man for this great mercy Lieutenant Barrow the pretended Constable rewarded by the Parliament Canon-Tean a strong Fort taken at Exeter Callyntine House taken Skipton Castle surrendred to the Parliament The Freedome of almost all the Northerne parts The singular providence of the City of London and of the Parliament for the defence and safety of the said City The Burning-Bush not consumed Psal 62. 7 8. January 1646. Plymouths singular good successe against their besieging Enemies Canterbury Fort taken Saint Beudeaux taken The prisoners and prizes taken The slain on both sides A brave victorie obtained by our Forces at Bovy-Tracy in the West The prisoners and prizes taken Iminster taken Ashburton taken Totnes taken Okehampton taken The most brave victorie over the Rebels in Ireland at Sligo The slaine Gods good providence in the apprehension of certain Papers and Letters from the Archbishop of Tuain The danger of Treaties with our Malignant adversaries Yea of a Personal Treatie with the King himselfe Remarkable mischiefe and impiety discovered in the Kings party A Copy of the Kings Letter to the Parliament The summe of the Parliaments Answer to the Kings Letter for a treaty for a pretended peace Plymouth totally relieved and relinquished by the Enemies Plymouth made good advantage of the flight of their Enemies Sir Francis Drakes House taken Dartmouth summoned Captain Batten Vice-Admiral helps to besiege Dartmouth Sy Sea The City of London petitions the Parliament about Church-Government A brave defeat given to Wallingford Forces by Major Generall Brownes Forces Dartmouth Towne and Castle taken by storme The relation of the manner of taking Dartmouth signified by Sir Thomus Fairfaxes Letter to the Parliament Prisoners taken Prizes taken Major Pollard slaine on the Enemies side Deserved thanks and reward given to our renowned Generall Sir Thomas Fairfax Certain observations on the Premisses A Solemne day of Thanksgiving ordered to be kept in London and over the Kingdome A brave defeat given to the Enemy at Cark neere Stafford Pouldram Castle taken The most noble and renowned Generals singular mercy and clemency toward his Enemies Sir Thomas Fairfax a second Caesar A Ship from France taken at Dartmouth with Letters of great consequence The Burning-Bush unconsumed 1 2 3 4 5 6 Jer. 10. 7. Zecha 25. February 1646. Belvoir-Castle surrendred to the Parliament The City of Westchester taken A most sweet and evident returne of Prayer Chester surrendred upon very conditions and the reason therof The prizes taken in the City of Chester A brave defeat given to the Enemie at Ashbie de-la Zouth The good and prosperous successe of our armie in the West The Assizes of Oyer and Terminer revived A Solemne Thanksgiving for Chester and a charitable Collection made A fresh spurre to quicken the spirit of praises Torrington Church fired by the Enemy Hoptons Army totally routed The valour of the Cornish men Prisoners prizes and spoil in and after this fight The slaine in this fight The Parliaments gratuity to the Messengers that brought this good newes A day of solemne thanksgiving set apart for this great Victory at Torrington The Court of Wards utterly put down A Copy of the Order or Vote in Parliament for puting downe the Court of Wards The brave victorie obtained over the Enemie at Cardiffe in Glamorganshire Colonell Kern the High-Sheriffe revolts and joynes with the Malig. Gentry against the Parâ—iament A second fight and brave victory The slain prisoners and prizes The great concernment of this victory The Parliaments gratitude to Maior Gen. Laughorn for this good service Corffe Castle delivered up to the Parliament The Burning Bush not Consumed 1. 2. 3. 4 5 6 Psal 116. 12 13 14. March 1646. Launceston in Cornwall taken by the Parliaments Forces Abington most â—ercely aâ—sauled and most bravely defended and preserved Our men most bravely charges the Enemy The Enemies beaten out of the Town The hurt on our side Some of ours most desperately fought in their shirts only The King vowed to have Abington and to fire it A passage of speciall providence in the preservation of Abington Abingtons bad and sad condition had it now been taken Ashbie de la-Zouch surrendred to the Parliament Our Armies singular good successe in Cornwall and the taking of Bodman Listithiel and VVare Bridge A brave defeat given to the Enemy by valiant Colonell Moore The Summons sent to Hopton A brave defeat given to the Enemy at Saint Culbumbe in Cornwall and that Garrison taken them Sir Ralph Hopton expects supplies out of Ireland Foy taken Pendennis besieged A List of the number of 〈◊〉 Gentry of Cornwall came in to the Parliament Maus Castle surrendred Sir William Vaughau well beaten by Captain Ashley The activity of the bravâ— Committee of Shrewsbury Shruardon Castle taken Goodrich Castle taken The famous fight and glorious victory obtained against Sir Jacob Ashley A description of the fight at Stow in the Ould Sir Jacob Ashleyes croâ—se and crafty marches put Sir William Brereton to tedious marches Both Armies are met The signall Word on both sides The fight begun The Enemy totally routed and pursued The Lord Ashley taken prisoner Sir Charles Lucas also taken prisoner Sir Jacob Ashleyes words to our Souldiers sitting on a Drum A List of the prisoners and prizes taken in the battle at Stow in the Ould All the enemie to depart from Truro The extraordinary faire carriage of the Souldiers The 9. Brigades that were disbanded Our Armie to march Eastward A Dunkerk
Magnalia Dei Anglicana OR Englands Parliamentary-Chronicle Containing a full and faithfull Series and Exact Narration of all the most memorable Parliamentary-Mercies and mighty if not miraculous Deliverances great and glorious Victories and admirable Successes of the Counsels and Armies of this present Parliament both by Sea and by Land over the whole Kingdom of England in the most just defence and Vindication of her Religion Laws and Liberties from the yeer 1640. to this present yeer 1646. Compiled in 4 Parts The two first intituled God in the Mount The third Gods Ark overtopping the Worlds Waves The fourth The Burning-Bush not Consumed This last Part comming up to These Present Times and to our most renowned Generall Sir Thomas Fairfaxes late famous Actions in the West and the happy because unbloody rendition of Oxford in this present yeer 1646. Collected cheifly for the high Honour of our Wonder-working God And for the unexpressible Comfort of all Cordiall English PARLIAMENTARIANS By the most unworthy Admirer of Them JOHN VICARS Gen. 49. 22 23 24. Joseph is a fruitfull Bough even a fruitfull Bough by a Well whose Branches run over the Wall The Archers shot at him and hated him But his Bow abode in strength and the Armes of his hands were made strong by the Hand of the mighty God of Jacob from thence is the Shepherd the stone of Israel Imprinted at London for J. Rothwell at the Sun Fountain in Pauls Church-yard and Tho. Vnderhill at the Bible in Woodstreet 1646. THE Burning-Bush not Consumed OR The FOVRTH and Last PART OF THE PARLIAMENTARIE-CHRONICLE Containing a full and Faithfull Continuation and Exact Narration of all the most materiall and most Memorable Proceedings of this renowned Parliament The Armies and Forces which are or have been in the severall parts of the Kingdome The Description of all the brave Battailes Victories and famous Defeates given to the Enemies both by Sea and by Land Especially the winning of Newcastle the glorious Victory at Nazeby and that famous Victory at Langport won through fire and water Together with all the other admirable Successes of our most Renowned and Victorious Generall Sir Thomas Fairfax with his despised New-Modelled Army in the West even to admiration and the happy Rendition of Oxford and the rest of the strong Garrisons about it Beginning from August 1644. and comming up to this present Moneth of July 1646. Collected for Gods high Honour and all pious Parliamentarians COMFORT By the most unworthie Admirer of Them JOHN VICARS Isaiah 63. 7. I will mention the Loving kindnesse of the Lord and the high praises of our God according to all the rich Mercies which the Lord hath bestowed upon us And his great goodnesse toward us his English-Israel which hee hath conferred on us according to his great Mercies and according to the Multitudes of his loving kindnesses The Third and this Fourth Part being Printed at the sole and entire cost and charge of the Authour Himself Imprinted at London by R. C. and M. B. for M. Spark at the Bible in Green Arbor J. Rothwel at the Sun in P. Church yard T. Vnderhill at the Bible in Woodstr 1646 TO The Right Honourable Peeres and Pious Patriots of this Kingdom Algernon Earl of Northumberland Philip Earl of Pembrook Robert Earl of Essex Robert Earl of Warwick Oliver Earl of Bullingbrook Edward Earl of Manchester Fardinando Lord Fairfax His Excellency Sir Thomas Fairfax Captain Generall of all the Parliaments Forces over the Kingdome Sir William Waller Sir Harbotle Grimstone Harbotle Grimstone Esquire Walter Young Esquire Sir John Young Francis Rouse Esquire Edmund Prideaux Esquire and Major Generall Massie And to the Rest of the most Noble and Right Worthily Renowned and Honourable Lords and Commons and Famous Souldiers and Senators Assembled in Parliament that are loyally affected and Constantly Addicted to the Great-work of a Glorious and Thorow Reformation of the Kingdomes Evills in Church and State John Vicars most humbly Dedicateth and Consecrateth Himself and These most Gratefull Memorialls of Gods Eternall Glory and Their high Honour And ever prayes as he is most justly bound for a most plentifull Repay of enlarged Gracious Honour heer and Glorious Immortality heerafter For all their pious Paines and indefatigable Labours Loyalty and Love for the Best-Good of Church and State to bee showred downe into the Bosomes of Them and their Posterity after them for ever TO The Right Honourable Thomas Adams Esq Lord Major of the most famous and renowned City of London And to the Right Worshipfull Sir John Wollastone Knight and Alderman of the said most Renowned City TO The Right Worshipfull his most highly Honoured singular good Friend Sir Matthew Brand Knight High Sheriffe of the County of Surrey And the Right Worshipfull Sir Richard Sprignall Knight TO The Right Worshipfull and truely Pious and Virtuous the Lady Francesse Brand The Lady Anne Sprignall The Lady Rebeccah Wâ—llastone And Mistris Mary Grimstone All of them my Pious and most precious Friends And Honourable and Worshipfull Patrons and Patronesses and principall Encouragers and Countenancers of all my poore and unworthy Labours and Endeavours to advance Gods Glory and Unspotted precious TRUTHES John Vicars their meanest and most unworthy Votary most humbly Dedicates and Consecrates Himself and all his poore but most bounden Services And ever prayes for their perpetuall and pious increase of all Honour and Happinesse heer and an immarcescible Crown of Glory heerafter A Colossus of Eternall bounden Gratitude OR A Panegyricall Pyramides of perpetuall Praise First erected by our Britaines ingenious and ingenuous MERCURIE And now Re-erected by the unworthy Authour of this Parliamentary-Chronicle with some plain and homely Inlaid-Work of his own insome convenient places 1 To God TO the Eternall-Ternall-Trin-Vn Glorious and ineffably illustricus Great and Gracious most Holy and most Wise Wonder-working JEHOVAH Great Britains onely Rock of Defence and most prudent Pilot steering and upholding her Weather-beaten Bark through the midst of the Ocean of all her turbulent and overflowing Floods and swelling Waves of bloody Woes and Wretchednesse The most Potent and Provident Shepherd of his English-Israel discovering and defeating all the malignant Machinations and Hell-hatcht deep Designes of Wrath and Ruine most maliciously intended and most desperately attempted by Papisticall Prelaticall and Atheisticall Wolves a degenerous Generation of her Vnnaturall-Nativeâ— Paricides To this Great God this Righteous Lord and King of Heaven and Earth who is thus glorious in Holinesse fearfull in Praises and hath in meer Mercy and free Grace done all these most memorable Wonders for us in Crowning us with so many most glorious Victories and treading our Enemies under our feet Let England and Scotland and with them all the Powers and Potentates of the World with the 24 Elders Revel 4. 10 11. fall before this great God and the Lambe that sits upon the Thrâ—ne and worship Him that liveth for ever and ever and cast their Crowns down at his feet before the Throne
to the fire of their fury and endevouring to heat the furnace of their frantick rage and madnesse yet seven times hotter and hotter And yet Gods Three yea 30 times three most faithfull and zealous Shadrachs Meshachs and Abednego's still preserved and kept safe in the midst of the fiercest and most furious conflagrations and all this made most clear and manifest both in all the fore-mentioned famous Victories obtained and perfidious plots and dangerous designes detected and prevented And have wee not then great cause with holy Moses both to put off the shooes of sin and transgression and also to approach unto and fix the feet of our affections on the â—oly ground of most gratefull contemplation of this great wonder and in sacred admiration thereof to break out into holy adoration of our great and good God and with holy Moses to sing and say Who is like unto thee O Lord among the gods Who is like unto thee glorious in holinesse fearfull in praises and doing wonders BUT now to goe on in our next Moneths sacred and serious observation of this foresaid wonder still continuing all this next ensuing September And herein I shall desire in the first place brâ—ifly to shew or rather to remember the Reader how that about the beginning of this moneth of September it pleased the Lord again to set his blessed Bush in the midst of a most dangerous devouring flame to see to and yet the Bush not Consumed Even to suffer our prime Parliamentary-Army of the whole Kingdome then under the Command of that most noble renowned loyall and most courageous Lord Generall the Earle of Essex to bee brought into a strange strait and most unhappy noose in a corner of Cornwall in the West one of the remotest parts of the Kingdome but by what mischeivous meanes or improvidence I know not rendring that at first most formidable Army most obnoxious to much danger and distresse of the numerously augmented forces of the most malicious and outrageous enemies thereof who by the daily additionall and increasing powers of the perfidious and atheisticall Cornish and Devonshire men had strangely and strongly coopt and hedged in that our most famous Army for divers weeks together in a nook or angle of that County of Cornwall and no Reserve or considerable Releif in so long time comming to their aide and assistance insomuch that the extraordinarily increasing wants in the Army and the extraordinary and inevitably necessitated duty of his Excellencies Souldiers being so incessantly continued and as I toucht before the powers of the Enemy so daily increasing and growing bigge with rage and pride against them they could not possibly any longer subsist without releif Whereupon a Councell of Warre being called it was resolved an absolute necessity lying on it that the Horse of the Army should break through the enemy and the Foot alas alas should stand upon their own guard and Defence till more ayd if by any means it could bee procured should bee sent unto them and thereupon 3000 Horse under the command of that renowned Souldier and brave Commander Sir William Belfore the rest of the Horse remaining still with the foot violently brake through the Enemy and most fiercely made good their retreat notwithstanding all the power of the Enemie and brought off with them severall of the Enemies Colours and slew many And Probdolor under correction of better judgement why might not our whole Army together both Horse and Foot as safely and certainly have come off fully had that Councell of Warre played Fair play above board So got to Salâ—ash and Plimouth with very little or no considerable losse in so desperate a Service Now thus our Foot forces being left behinde under the Command in châ—if of that most noble and ever to bee renowned virtuous and valourous Souldier and brave Commander Major Generall Skippon his Excellency the Lord Generall and the Lord Roberts being also gone to Plimouth by Sea and the Enemy choosing rather to bend their greatest power against the Foot than in pursuit of the Horse and having also resolved at a bloody Councell of Warre thinking the day their own and the birds to bee all caughâ— in the net in a most cruell and mercilesse manner to put them all to the Sword and not to give Quarter to any and likewise in pursuance hereof they having taken about 30 of our Foot Souldiers and put them all to the Sword save only two that by Gods good providence â—scaping ran from them and acquainted the rest of the Foot forces with the sâ—quell thereof Hereupon brave Majoâ— Generall Skiâ—pon like a true Souldiers indeed made a gallant and couragious speech to his said Foot forces to this effect That it would bee more â—onour for thâ—â— to die valiantly in the field than to 〈◊〉 themselves bâ—fely or â—owardly to the tyranny of so bloody and 〈◊〉 an 〈◊〉 professing himself most cheerfully there ready to live or diâ— with them 〈◊〉 first to sell their lives by Gods help at 〈…〉 a rate 〈◊〉 ever Souldiers did Whereupon they all most unanimously and cheerfully resolving the same fell upon the Enemy with such undaunted courage and resolution being led up in person by so brave and Lyon-like a Commander who to use his Excellencies own expression in his Letter to the Parliament of him fought like a Lyon and disdained that their brave Ordnance and Artillery should bee gained from them at a lesser value than the hearts blood of many hundreds of their Enemies which was so indeed ere they parted for they discharged their great peices divers times upon the Enemy which did great execution and slew very many of them whom they might see fall fast before them and the King himself being in fight thereof in the field and still received the rest so gallantly that the Enemy instead of being absolute Victors was at last enforced though much against their former intentions not only to give them Quarter but farther also to condescend to very honourable conditions and Articles on our Souldiers part though in the issue the Enemy proved most perfidious as their constant practice was in violating of them all and bespoiling and stripping them ere they left them of all they had save only their lives even taking fâ—om them their very cloathes off their backs boots stockings and shooes from their legges and feet and enforcing some of them to march stark naked and bare footed with only a base convoy of their perfidious Enemies Horse whom being quite disarmed they durst not resist And though renowned Major Generall Skippon rode back and boldly and bravely complained to the King himself thereof yet hee could finde no redresse therein But howsoever let the judicious Reader here judge and say whether heer was not a wonder indeed even no lesse than Gods Burning-bush not consumed considering what a furious devouring flame was round about it and whereinto it had been so strangely yea
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
powder one Cornet Colours 2 foot Colours and 5 Drums and that Colonell Bret Knight and Baronet was heer also dangerously wounded and as was reported since dyed of the wounds hee then received and that Major Hinkley was for certain dead of his wounds in this skirmish received About the 30 of this instant November wee were certified by Letters from Sir Thomas Middletons quarters that Colonell Beal who went with Foot forces out of London by Sea intended for Anglesey and so for Sir Thomas Middleton in North Wales landed his forces in Milford-Haven in Pembrookeshire in South-Wales where joyning with the Pembrook-men hee marched into Carmarthenshire where the Enemies had a strong Garrison called Laughorn castle which this brave Colonell won from them the exact particulars of which Service being brought to London in a Letter dated at Pembrook I have heer thought fit to extract and set down the substance thereof to the honour of that gallant Colonell and the other Commanders assistant to him therein which was as followeth Wee made our approach to Laughorn castle and having soon gained the Town in the Town gate wee planted our Ordnance and first gave the Enemies a fair summons to surrender the said Garrison for the King and Parliament which they utterly refusing wee presently made our batteries against the Castle gate-house and that not without the happy advantage of a great breach and so with an unanimous consent of our forces fell to hot storm and undermining of the walls both which were performed with such fervour courage and expedition and that only with the losse of not above 5 of our men but at the least 33 of theirs within as was afterward confessed by some of their own Commanders as that the Enemy seeing us in such good earnest and wisely fore-seeing the eminent danger they werein if they now delayed any longer they presently sounded a parley which notwithstanding our advantages being granted them though at first they began with us on high termes yet were forced speedily to surrender only upon quarter for their lives and the Castle thus surrendred into the Generalls possession wherein were 4 peices of Ordnance 160 armes 4 barrels of powder and great store of other provision they having lost in this assault ere it was ended 33 of their men and many wounded whereof 4 were Captains Much also about the foresaid time came certain intelligence by Letters from Pool in the West that Sir Lewis Dives being at Dorchester with 200 horse and Dragoones sent a party to face Pool who made a daring shew and bravado upon sight of whom brave Colonell Sydenham prepared valiantly to oppose them but after only a daring shew and bravado they vanished like a vapourous cloud and marcht away instantly to Dorchester But renowned Colonell Sydenham impatient of the empty flourishes of a vapouring Enemy that night drew out a party of between 50 and 60 horse double pistolled and with them marched like a gallant Gentleman indeed himself in person desirous to shew Sir Lewis Dives some action and in the night hee came to Dorchester and fell upon the Enemy in their quarters first charged the out-guards calling to his men to fall on couragiously which they did most gallantly beat his whole Regiment quite through the Town and then gave them a second charge and beat them back again most stoutly charging upon the Dragoones and crying out to his Souldiers Give the Dragoones no quarter With which his so violent a charge some fell and the rest fled and at a third charge this noble Colonell facing about in the Town found and knew Major Williams in the head of the Enemies Troopes comming to charge him This Williams had formerly basely and cruelly killed Colonell Sydenhams Mother whom so soon as Colonell Sydenham saw hee spake to his men that were next to him to stick close to him for said hee I will now avenge my Mothers innocent blood or die in this place and so hee most valiantly made his way to Major Williams and flew him in the place who fell down dead under his horses feet the rest of the horse and Dragoones fled out of the Town and so escaped Sir Lewis Dives himself and some others of note being sorely wounded and valiant Colonell Sydenham returned back victoriously into Pool with the prisoners hee had taken And thus now having by Gods good guide and assistance finished with a short and succinct Survey the comfortable contemplation of this Moneths wonder of the Burning-Bush thus still Vnconsumed in the midst of all these premised fierce and furious conflagrations as namely Captain Stones his brave exploit at Eccleshall the various happy occasions of a Solemn day of Thanksgiving on the 5 of this November by Order of Parliament Brave Sir Anthony Ashley-Coopers storming and taking of Sir John Strangewayes House a strong Garrison in Dorsetshire The brave defeat given to the Enemy at Helmsley castle and the taking thereof Free Trade re-establisht in Newcastle by authority of Parliament A brave defeat given to the Enemies neer Newark in Lincolnshire Two other also given unto them the one at Axminster in the West together with a rich ship of the Enemies driven into Lime the other within 2 or 3 dayes after the former against a party of the Enemies in those parts The taking of Laughorn-castle in South-Wales And this last brave exploit performed at Dorchester by renowned Colonell Sydenham All these I say performed to the eternall praise and high honour of our Israels ever most gracious and glorious Wonder-working God whereby wee have great cause to sing and say with holy David with exulting joy and thankfulnesse of heart The Lord of Hoasts is with us the God of Jacob is our refuge And thus wee will now breifly passe on without any farther digression or interruption to the farther view and observation of Gods most powerfull and propitious preservation of this still Burning-Bush the Parliamentary Cause FIrst therefore I shall begin the serious Survey of this most rare and admirable Wonder of the Burning-Bush not consumed in this next succeeding Moneth of December 1644. with that brave defeat given to the Enemy about the time when Taunton was much straitned by a siege then about it that valiant and faithfull Colonell Norton with others being then designed for the releif thereof wherein also Sergeant Major Dewet who since hath provâ—d a most perfidious apostate and Major Wansey with the rest of Colonell Ludlows Regiment of horse designed also as a reserve to our Forces then sent to releive Taunton as aforesaid who all I say marched to Salisbury where the Enemy was quartered who upon the suddain approach of these our friends were forced to flye into a place called the Closse a cheif and eminent place of that City where the Bishops and Cathedrall Choristers and Singing-men used to live like so many lazie Abbey-Lubbers commonly called the Prebends-Closse and thither our Forces marched after them even up
Bird was one that came not short in bravery of any This party I say fought thus with the Enemy and came to push of Pike nay to the swords point and laid about them so bravely that they forced the Enemy to flie from chamber to chamber Whereupon I presently sent out my youngest brother the Ensign with my 3 Corporalls of horse and about 40 more men to releive the first party And I assure you Sir the young Boy fought well and led on his men most bravely and releived his brother by which means all the upper roomes were regained and now the Enemies kept onely the Stables and the Barnes which they held stoutly but my resolute Souldiers did then so thunder their horse and Reserves of foot that stood within Pistoll shot that Sir William and Sir Charles Compton who were there present began to give ground which my Souldiers easily perceiving some leapt out at the windowes and so into the Out-works by which meanes I recovered my Out-works again and made a sally-port by which the Enemy endevoured to retreat at but finding they were frustrated of their hopes and that my Musketteers did play so hot upon the great Draw-bridge that they could not bee releived and withall wee having beaten the Enemy out of that work which wee stormed when you took the House I had time therby to recover fully the great Draw-bridge and instantly got new Ropes and new Locks and drew it up again in-spight of them all Now by this means all those whose names are heer with inclosed to you were all in Cobs pound having no means in the world to retreat whereupon they fought desperately for the space of 3 houres and the valiant Comptons perceiving their extreme losse attempted 3 severall times to storme and regain my Out-works but all the 3 times were beaten off with as much resolution I praise the Lord and gallantry of my Souldiers as could bee expressed by men The Enemy within set firâ— on the hay straw and all combustible stuffe to smother my men out of the upper roomes which did indeed much annoy them and the Enemy without threw at least an 100 hand-granadoes upon the houses so as they set them on fire in 3 severall places Whereupon Sir Charles and Sir William thinking all their own sent a Trumpeter to parley but I commanded that none should parley nor would I permit the Trumpeter to speak at all unto mee and â—ain hee would have said something to the Souldiers but I commanded him upon his life to bee gone and not to return any more upon his perill and wee continued in fight still and the foresaid fire did so increase that I thought it fit to offer quarter to all those that were in the Stable for their lives only but they would not hear mee Upon which I drew all my men together and fell violently in upon them in which assault were slain and taken prisoners all whose names are in the ensuing List This did so dis-hearten the Comptons and all their forces that they presently drew off all their foot and onely faced mee with their horse and sent another Trumpeter to parley but I commanded to give fire upon him that hee returned with no other an answer but what a Musket could speak And thus by Gods providence and mercy wee were clearly rid of them Sir this is as true and short a narration as I could conveniently give you I am as wee are all Your obliged Servants and Kinsmen George William Purefoy Compton Jan. 30. 1644. Wee recovered all our own men again that the Enemy had taken A List of the Officers and Souldiers slain and taken Prisoners Captains 3. Leivtenants 2. one Ensigne one Quartermaster one Cornet â— Corporalls 3 Sergeants Troopers and foot Souldiers about 50. besides 6 Cartloades of wounded men carryed off and neer upon 40 Common Souldiers left dead behinde them in and about the House or Garrison Of mine own men both horse and foot onely one was desperately wounded and another slightly hurt but not one I say was slain a rare and even wonderfull providence indeed Wee took of the Enemies horse and foot arms an 100 Muskets 40 Pistolls and about 20 hand-granadoes This fight began about 2 of the clock in the morning and continued till about 9. in which time the Enemy stormed us 4 severall times and were still beaten off the number of them were both horse and foot between a 1000 and 1200 as their prisoners confessed With their hand-granadoes they desperately fired our stables barnes and brew-house in 3 severall places but did us no more considerable hurt and wee lost about 20 horse and some of our Muskets And was not heer good Reader a most remarkable evidence and undeniable testimony of Gods strong arm with us in putting such a resolute and courageous spirit into the heart of our Souldiers and so admirably delivering them from the rage of such a resolute and furious enemy And at the same time wee had also farther certain information that the very next night that this foresaid defeat was performed 6 Troopes of horse belonging to the Garrison of Northampton went forth thence to discover what parties of the Kings were haply to bee found about the Country not knowing at all of the foresaid brave defeat at Compton House and fell upon 3 Troopes of the same Enemies whch had been so beaten before at Compton House and were now quartered in their return that night in Kings-Sutton neer Banbury where Northampton forces took 57 horse and 6 prisoners the rest of their men getting into the Church there and into another great house close by it Northampton forces lost in this adventure but one man who was shot as hee went to fasten a Petarre unto the Church door and one more was wounded All the horse taken as aforesaid they sold at Northampton the next day of their return home And heer now again good Reader bee pleased to make a little stay and with a gracious and gratefull heart a little to muse and meditate on and that with wonder and amazement too the many and marvellous acts of Gods most precious providence in all the remarkable passages of this moneth also in preserving his blessed Bush still Burning but unconsumed still in the midst of so many fierce and furious devouring emflagrationâ— as namely In the death and downfall of those impious and Arch Traitors of their Country Carew and the Hothams The brave exploits of our forces about Winchester and Ailsbury Colonell Laughorns brave services in Wales related by renowned Captain Swanleyes Letter to the Parliament The brave defeat given to Prince Robber that Prince of Pilferers by renowned Major Generall Brown at Abbington together with the brave beating of the Enemies at Plymouth And Colonell Holborns good services in the West The New-Modell-Army constituted and the brave Victory of Sir William Brerâ—tons forces in Cheshire Together with Colonell Crafords
mercies of this Moneth let thy soule bee still and ever ravished and rapt up with wonder and admiration at the infinite and unfathomed depth of this Gods free love and blessed bounty to his poore despised Church and Children With which according to his faithfull promise hee still abides and so will continue even to the end of the world to sustain and support it maugre all the malicious machinations of Sathan and all his malignant Agents And therefore let us with Christian courage and boldnesse exult in the rock of our Salvation and with the undaunted Spirit and goldly resolution of renowned Luther sing and say as wee have most just cause The Lord of Hosts is with us the God of Jacob is our refuge But now to proceed AND heer wee shall again begin the comfortable contemplation of the next ensuing Moneth of Marches works of wonder to the high honour of our wonder-working God with that famous bâ—sinesse of the most admirable and rare recovery of the Town of Weymouth in the West which was thus related About the beginning of this Moneth of March 1644. wee first received intelligence by Letters from that faithfull and most valiant and vigilant Sea-Commander Captain Batten Vice-Admirall of the Parliaments Navy by Sea That hee had then lately releived Melcombe-Regis which after the trecherous losse of Weymouth the February before still held out against the Enemy by Gods speciall and mighty assistance and blessing on the famous faithfull and indefatigable endevours of renowned Colonell Sydenham notwithstanding I say that poore Weymouth had been trecherously betrayed by many of its own malignant Inhabitants into the Enemies hands That in this great straight I say and exigent of time and danger renowned Captain Batten being by divine providence come thither with his ships releived them with such provisions as at that time they most wanted and that therewith hee had landed there an 100 of his stout Sea-men and that the Enemy might make the lesse use of the Town of Weymouth Colonell Sydenham was necessitated to fire the ships which the Enemy had on Weymouth side which having the benefit of a faire winde fit for his designe hee afterward performed accordingly and not onely burnt divers ships but part of the Town of Weymouth also which in that exigent could not bee avoyded Now renowned Colonell Sydenham with his brave Souldiers and resolute Sea-men all this while maintained Melcombe with admirable gallantry and courage and at length they most undauntedly re-gained the Chappell-fort of Weymouth and therein 60 of the Enemies taken prisoners And in this furious skirmish of thus re-gaining Chappell-fort wee took besides those in the Fort one Leivtenant Colonell one Major 3 Captains 3 Leivtenants and a 100 common Souldiers with store of provisions which the Enemy had newly got together and all this with the losse of but one man of ours a remarkable mercy of the Lord unto us which did so inrage the Enemy that Goring would needs bee revenged and vowed to assault us all at once as after this hee fruitlesly endevoured wherof more anon in its due place This certain intelligence was at that time farther confirmed by 2 severall Letters of Sir Lewis Dives which had been intercepted by the Garrison of Lyme the one of them to Sir John Barkley Governour of Exeter the other to the Governor of Bristol In which Letters hee signified the taking of the said Chappell-fort by Colonell Sydenhams forces and therefore desired Sir Richard Greenvill that Skellum and base apostate to come away speedily with his promised 1500 horse and that the said Governours would hasten away the 500 foot they promised to Colonell Goring and himself for else sayes hee in his said Letters The Crown of England is in danger to bee lost if Weymouth should bee re-gained by the Parliaments Forces Now Goring in this interim being extremely vext at the losse of the Chappel-fort and considering that it was a very great prejudice to his other intended proceedings hee therefore resolved to fall again upon that Fort and that they might as they conceived the more effectually doe it it was concluded by a Councill of Warre to fall both upon that Fort and on the Town of Melcomb also at once and in severall places and this to bee done as most works of darknesse are in the midst of the night But it pleased the Lord so graciously to order it that the very same Evening that this storm was intended one of our Souldiers who had been taken prisoner by the Enemy made an escape and came into Melcombe and gave the Governour notice of the Enemies resolution and that they would fall upon them that night so that by this means our men prepared themselves to stand stoutly upon their guard and the Enemy came accordingly and assaulted the line about Melcomb in 5 or 6 severall places together and the Chappel for t also at the same time and did it with great violence and resolution but were most bravely resisted by our men till such time as the treacherous Townesmen within let in many of the Enemies forces through their back-doores and so the Enemy came on their backs and made them somewhat to retreat In which retreat the Enemy being much strengthened by the assistance of the Town-Malignants valiant Major Francis Sydenham was slain a great losse unto us But undaunted Colonell Sydenham observing this great strait and brave Captain Batten also who in this businesse deserved great honour and commendation together with his valiant Sea-men also who most willingly came on shore to hazzard their lives in this service and fought most undauntedly and for the samâ— merited much praise and reward too they both did mightily encourage their men both with their words and examples too not to shrink but to follow on close upon the Enemy and so led them up again into the very face of the Enemy and inforced the Enemy to a swift retreat back again into Weymouth with the losse of at least 250 of their men who were slain and drowned in the River Now the Enemy being thus retreated our brave-spirited Souldiers stood still upon their guard with expectation that the Enemy would have come on again but they did not for the next morning about 10 of the clock the Enemy as appeared stricken with some panick fear were all sneakt away out of Weymouth also and secretly and suddenly had marched away both horse and foot in great haste guarding their Rear with their Horse leaving their own Colours behinde them in their Fort with all the Ordnance they took from us and 2 peices more and some barrells of powder with a great overplus of Armes and Ammunition Victuall and other good booty which had been brought thither by the Enemy and indeed they took nothing away with them but only some plunder of the Town And thus after a very tedious siege and much hard service for 18 dayes and
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
gracious prevention of our Prayers the Lord heerin most exactly verifying his own faithfull promise by the Prophet I am found of them that sought mee not And according to that also in the same Chapter Before they call I will answer and whiles they are yet speaking I will hear And is not heer a gracious God indeed and is not our God a bountifull-handed and free-hearted Master indeed who payes us our wages before our work is done and that farre more than wee asked or ever did or could deserve yes most certainly And for the farther and clearer confirmation ratification and admirable yea almost incredible illustration of this truth give mee leave good Reader to put thee in minde how that much about the beginning of June last it pleased the Lord to hint in the heart of a godly Minister by name Mr. White Preaching occasionally at reverend and religious Mr. Cases Church in Milkestreet in London the impregnable and even invincible power of Prayer and of what precious consequence and concernment it might bee for the advancement of Gods glorious Cause if Gods people would bee pleased every morning constantly to set apart half an houre or an houre at most to seek the Lord by servent Prayer for a speciall blessing upon the present great affaires and negotiations of the Kingdom both by Counsell and Warre for the good of Church and State which hint or holy alarm as I may call it reverend and religious pious and painfull Mr. Case cheerfully laying hold on presently began this godly work and for the space of one whole Moneth upheld it in his own Church most sacredly and sweetly Whom reverend and religious Mr. Calamy as I take it immediately succeeded all the next ensuing Moneth and so this most blessed work hath continued and constantly been carryed on to the high honour and glory of our Prayer-hearing God the wonderfull good of the Kingdome and the unexpressible joy and comfort of Gods people especially who have been partakers and actours in it For as it hath been most justly observed O what sweet and singular successes have been given to all our Armies ever since this pious and precious work began not a Moneth nay a week nay scarsely 2 dayes have past without a blessing on our Armies if not a Victory in one part of the Kingdome or other Take good Reader but a succinct Summary of what God hath done heerin only since June and July now last past the rest I shall give thee afterward in their more proper places As namely First That most famous and glorious victory at Naseby The singular good successe of our forces in Shropshire The last releif of Taunton The admirable re-taking of Leicester Highwarth and Ilchester The late forementioned famous Victory obtained by Gods mighty assistance through fire and water at Lang-port and Burroughs which famous victory wee obtained that day moneth whereon wee obtained Naseby Victory rare mercies indeed two famous Field-victories obtained in the space of one Moneth The surrender of Carlile The reconcilement and comming in of the Western Clubmen to the Parliaments party The winning of strong Bridgewater and strange and speedy obtaining of Bath The gaining of the strong Castles of Pontefract Scarborough Cannon-Frâ—â— Chadwick-house and Rabby Castle In these Field-victories and 10 or 11 strong Garrisons and Castles above 10000 prisoners taken above 50 or 60 peices of Ordnance Much above 10000 Armes and great plenty of Ammunition bagge and baggage and all this done within the space of lesse than two Moneths Tell me now then good Reader and speak thy conscience freely doe not all these rare and almost incredible mercies clearely confirme the truth of what I have affirmed that ever since the Throne of grace hath been so constantly and daily prest with Prayer our faithfull Prayer-hearing God hath admirably crowned his own works in us and for us And say I pray thee may I not most justly stile these two Moneths of June and July Menses Mirabiles two most deservedly admired Moneths And hast thou not now again good Reader seen and that in a most abundant measure this our great Miracle and amazing-wonder even The Burning-Bush not only not Consumed but gloriously made to spread and flourish in the midst of all the most fierce and furious flames of Antichristian Atheisticall and Maligaant wrath and outrageous fury Yes certainly I know thou wilt easily and truely acknowledge it and that if ever heer was that faithfull word of the Lord confirmed and made good to his maligned Church and children Now weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper and every tongue that shall rise against thee in judgement thou shalt condemn This is the heritage of the Servants of the Lord and their righteousnesse and salvation is only of the Lord. Not unto us therefore Lord not unto us but unto thy name alone wee give all the honour and glory of all these great and gracious deliverances and many and mighty mercies Thou only hast thus encompast us with Songs of deliverance Thy mighty hand and thy strong and out-stretched arme alone hath gotten to thy self and given to us these great and glorious Victories to thee alone therefore â—ee all the honour and glory throughout all generations And now to go on in the continuation and happy contemplation of this next Moneths most memorable Wonder of our Burning-Bush the Parliaments Cause still un-consumed still eminently prospered And here I shall begin this Moneths observation herein with that brave defeat given to the Enemy by that valiant active and faithfull Commander Captain Allen neare Stamford in Lincolneshire which was as followeth About the beginning of this Moneth of August 1645. we received Letters of certain intelligence from Burleigh House in those parts that a party of Newarkers being joyned with Belvoyre Forces to the number of about 300 in all were gathering Taxes or Contribution Money about Stamford and the parts thereabout whereof valiant Captain Allen having notice he with Captain Collins drew forth all the Horse belonging to the Garrison being in number not above 130. or 140. at most whereof some were Dragoones which came after who found the Enemy neer Carlebie retreating homeward with their Prisoners and Plunder among whom they had taken an Alderman of Stamford Sir Robert Dallison being their Commander in Chiefe and they above two for one of ours where a hot encounter was begun between them for our men notwithstanding set upon them with admirable resolution and were as it must be confessed at first gallantly received but I say after a sharp and short dispute it pleased God to do much for ours and to make couragious Captain Allen a speciall instrument of a brave victory his brave Souldiers taking more than ordinary courage at his valiant and undaunted behaviour among them insomuch that they utterly routed the Enemy leaving dead and desperately wounded twelve or fourteen on the place and took Prisoners
brought away and returned triumphantly to Shrewsbury againe And about the 14 instant we were for certaine informed by â—â—tters from Coventry that Lieutenant Colonell Phips a brave and â—ut Gentleman of that famous City being requested as a Phisiâ—â—an to visit the Lady Lucie at Churlcot about three miles from â—arwick it being within the Parliaments Garrisons and therefore he might have thought himself secure enough but it seemed the Enemy had some private intelligence hereof and from Banbury a party of their Horse secretly attended his coming back and about two miles from Warwick or little more at their best advantage they discovered themselves upon him and ere discovered had surrounded him and riding up close unto him to have laid hold on him he stoutly with his Sword kept them off his man assisting him whereupon they shot severall Pistols at him killed his man in the place but the brave Lieutenant Colonell himselfe with his Sword only valiantly defended himselfe and violently brake through six or seven of the Enemy who stood to stop him in a strait passage and thus outriding them got to Warwick without any hurt at all This was that valiant and faithfull Phips who was the chiefe instrument under God of preserving Coventry when the King was at the first beginning of this War before it And this though a particular passage yet having so much of Gods providence and preservation in it and that to one of the Parliaments first and so fast friends I thought it worthy to be here inserted for Gods glory and the honour of his cause and the faithfull upholders of it And whereas it had pleased the Lord in his most wise disposall and righteous ordering of all things as about this time and somtime not long before to permit Montrosse that most desperate and Atheisticall Rebell in Scotland sorely and very suddenly to over-runne and spoile that Kingdome of Scotland by the cursed help of some additionall Irish Rebels then come unto him and thereby to worke such a mighty and sudden overture of things there as made us all and that most justly stand amazed to see that Kingdome so soone and so universally reduced into such a deep deluge of danger and distraction and whereby Montrosse was lifted up to such a height of pride and insolent arrogancy as to go about to summon a Parliament as Lord Paramount and already King of Scotland and to force divers rebellious and trayterous Lords of that Kingdome then in durance in Edenborough out of prison and to be set at liberty and sent to him as his beloved brethren in iniquity with him as upon his command they were And yet notwithstanding all this how admirably and graciously againe it pleased the Lord on a sudden to revive this seeming dying Kingdome and in the midst of all Montrosses ruffe and puffe of pride to disappoint and dissipate his high-built hopes and vapourous villanies of insufferable pride and oppression exercised by him on the poore helplesse Inhabitants where he came The manner whereof I shall desire the Reader to receive in this ensuing relation extracted for brevities sake out of an authentick narration thereof sent from Barwick immediately after the great and glorious victory which God gave those our loving Brethren in Scotland which was as followeth About the 12 of this instant September 1645. being Friday a day of fasting and humiliation in Scotland and valiant and victorious Lieutenant Generall David Lesley being then come into Scotland advanced with his Forces within three miles of the place where Montrosses Army lay quartered in Philip-Haugh not far from Selkirk and the morrow being Saturday Sept. 13. he marched close up within view of the Enemy who about 10 of the clock that morning according to his usuall manner had made choise of a most advantagious ground wherein they had intrenched themselves having upon the one hand an unpassable ditch and on the other dikes and hedges and where these were not strong enough they had fortified them by casting up ditches and lyning their hedges strongly with Musketeers After viewing one another and some slight skirmishes parties in this kinde growing greater on both sides at last our Van advanced close upon the Enemy and for almost an houre being between 11 and 12 of the clock it was hotly disputed our Horse endeavouring to break thorow and the Enemy with great resolution maintaining their ground but at length Lieutenant Generall Lesley charging very desperately upon the head of his own Regiment broke the body of the Enemies Foot after which they went all in a confusion and disorder and the Horse wanting their Foot were not able to make great opposition the Foot were hereupon cut off and taken whereof 100 were Irish who were all since shot to death at a post many of the Horse were killed on the place and many taken but more in the pursuit for they rallied againe which by Gods providence occasioned their greater overthrow and gave opportunity to our Horse to encounter them Here the Earle of Crawford the Generall of their Horse was slaine the Lord Ogleby and Nathaniel Gordon one of their most active Commanders were taken of the Foot and Horse it was then conceived there were between 2000 and 3000 killed And this is remarkable in this great businesse that God should be pleased to cast into our hands againe those prisoners that had been delivered up basely by the Malignants in Edenborough to Montrosse We lost on our side Captaine Barclay and Captaine Dundasse and a very few of our other Souldiers but had divâ—rs wounded yet killed and wounded there were not in all above 100. The Lord of Hosts put a spirit of courage into our Officers and Souldiers for all of them behaved themselves most resolutely and bravely and after the battell we understood for certaine that divers of the Enemies were killed and taken by the Country people Montrosse himself escaped with a few Horse leaving behind him all his baggage among which we found his own Commission from the King and divers other Commissions for Lieutenants in the severall Counties together with a Roll of all such as had received protections from him which did serve us as a good Vidimus for the payment of our Souldiers And that the greatnesse of Gods goodnesse may shine forth in this Victory the more illustriously I shall here give the Reader a List of the Prisoners and slaine in this remarkable Fight and famous Victory Prisoners of note taken besides those were killed at the Battell fought at Philip-Haugh within three miles of Selkirk in Tividale upon the 13. Septemb. 1645. and since in the pursuit Prisoners of note taken THe Earl of Traquaire Lord Seaton Lord Drummond Lord Ogleby Lord Gray Lord Linton The Lord Napers eldest Son The Baron of Drum younger The Baron of Reasyth The Lord of Derceys eldest Sonne Granchild to the late pretended Archbishop of S. Andrews The Laird of Pury Ogleby
at Sea driven into a creek neer Plymouth from whence a Boat was sent to demand and know whom they were for the Marriners thinking themselves to be in his Majesties Quarters answered They were for the King Hereupon our boat left them and acquainting the Governour of Plymouth therewith he sent forth severall Boats with Musketeers to take the Barke which they did after some resistance and some few slain on both side and so brought it safely into Plymouth to be made use of for the King and Parliament And about November the 24. we also received certaine information by Letters out of Gloucestershire of a brave defeat given to the Enemie in those parts which also was confirmed by another Letter especially from Malmsbury the substance whereof was as followeth That upon occasion of planting and fortifying a Garrison for the Parliaments partie by renowned and active Colonell Morgan the valiant and faithfull Governour of Gloucester at Sir Henry Fred. Thynnes House at Kempsford in that Countie the Enemy belonging to Rad-Court and Farringdon being enraged at it and much offended that they should have a troublesome neighbour so neere them to straighten and curb their former accustomed excursions into the Countrie for contribution-money and plunder They therefore came forth with a party of about 30. horse to impede and disturbe their workes begun Whereupon Captaine Moore who had the Command of Malmsbury foot left at Letch-lad by Colonell Morgan drew out 60. Musketeers with which he bravely flankt the Enemie slew 2. of them shot their Captaine in the thigh and so made retreat but this their Commander swore in a rage that they would ere long be avenged upon our forces and thereupon they presently fetched in unto them Major Duet that French-Renegado and base apostate from the Parliaments service who since his defection had beene a Scourge and vexation to those parts though most Commonly with losse to himselfe who came that very evening with 100. foot and 120. horse purposing to have surprised ours in their workes and now to be revenged on them for his friends former repulse but valiant and vigilant Captaine Moore timely discovered them sent out another partie of Musketters and the Gloucester-horse thereabout having taken the Alarm drew forth also to the Encounter set fiercely upon the Enemy put them to the rout pursued the chace mortally wounded Major Duet himselfe unhorst him threw him into the dire where within 4 or 5 houres after he was found dead a just hand of God now at last upon such a disloyall and faithlesse apostate from the honest Cause which he first undertooke they also slew another Captain and 20. more Common Souldiers upon the place tooke 30. prisoners whereof one was a Corner and 5. of the Kings Life-guard 40. horse and 60 fire-armes And thuâ— having by Gods great mercy to whom alone be all the praise and glory thereof chaced them close to Rad-cot-Bridge even almost to their very workes they returned victoriously safe to their Garrison without the lose of any one man of theirs slaine only 2. or 3. wounded but not mortally Finally about the latter end of this November it pleased the Lord to put into the hearts of our most prudent and provident Parliamentarie-Statists for the more luculent and cleare manifestation of their hearts integrity to manage all matters for the greater honour of that great and supreame Court of Parliament and the fairer evidence of their own personall sincerity in and about the same to take into their serious debate the great prejudice which many have received by protection of Members of Parliament and their servants or attendants and therefore how the same might be remedied for the future The result whereof came at last to this issue that they appointed a Committee of New elected Members who were to meet certaine dayes weekly with power to heare and examine complaints of such as have suffered in that nature And also to receive such complaints as shall upon just ground be brought against any Member of Parliament for taking of Bribes or for any other act of injustice whatsoever Certainely such acts of justice as these especially being faithfully and effectually carryed on will make this already most famous Parliament much more famous and illustrious to all posterity and cannot but most justly stop the mouths of all malicious-hearted Malignants and others who have or shall endevour injuriously to scandalize their honourable proceedings And here now againe good Reader let me desire thee to stay a while to make a most gratefull review there in to admire the rare and remarkable Parliamentarie-mercies of this moneth also in the cleare and most demonstrative ratification of this admirable wonder of the Burning-Bush still unconsumed and rarely kept and recovered from the many menaced distractions of it by the incessant assailant furious flames and conflagrations flashing continually round about it as hath beene most apparently seen and set forth both in the Parliaments provident care and Circumspection for the safety and welfare of the Kingdome and City of London in those two excellent Orders against Delinquents In the taking in of Shelford-House And miserably taring in peeces of the Lord Digbies late scattered forces againe rallyed into a body In the surrender of Abarashwait a strong Garrison of the Enemie in Cardiganshire into the Parliaments power And the gratefull recordation of the Parliaments happie preservation from the malicious machinations of the plotting Enemies therof since the beginning of it to this present In the taking in of Worton-Garrison Wiverton and Welbeck-house And the spontaneous falling off of all Glamorganshire from the Kings pernicious party In the surrender of Bolton-Castle in the North to the Parliaments forces And the brave defeat given to the Enemy at Cannon-Froom and surprisall then of a notable Engine for batterie called a Sowe In the notable defeate given to the Lord Ashton and his forces where himselfe was slaine And the brave prize taken at Sea from the Enemie by Plymouth Garrison In the brave defeat given to Major Duet that French renegado and base Apostate where he himselfe was slaine And lastly In the remarkable testimonie of the Parliaments integrity shining forth in that excellent order of theirs against Parliaments protections and taking of bribes All which graciously and gratefully considered can amount to no lesse than a most cordiall and comfortable acknowledgement and confession of the Lords unchangeable free grace and unexhaustible bounty to us his most unworthy people of England even to admiration and astonishment to all our neighbour Nations round about us And that therefore they may and must most justly cause yea compellus with thankfull thoughts hearts and tongues to confesse and say with holy David Through the Lord alone we have done thus valiantly and he it is that â—ath thus graciously and gloriously trod downe our Enemies Yea He it is that hath bidden us not to be afraid of our most potent or politick
common with others you may be assured of such mediation to the Parliament in your behalfe both from my selfe and others as for one whom for personall worth and many vertues but especially for your care of and moderation towards the Country we honour and esteeme above any other of your party whose Errour supposing you more swayed with Principles of Honour and Conscience than other we most pity and whose happinesse so far as consistent with the publike welfare we should delight in more than in your least suffering These things not from any need or other ends than Humane and Christian having offered I leave to your consideration and theirs whom they concerne desiring your and their speedy resolving which I pray may be such as shall be most for the honour of God the peace and welfare of this poore Kingdome and for your and their good so far as may stand therewith And having herein discharged as I conceive the duty of an honest man a Souldier and a Christian if God shall see it good to let your hearts be hardned against your own peace I shall though with some regret for that ill which shall insue to any yet with cheerfullnesse and rejoycing at the righteous Judgements of God pursue my charge and trust for the publique in another way not doubting of the same presence and blessing which God hath hitherto vouchafed in the same Cause to the weake endeavours of Thomas Fairefax March 5. 1645. About the 16. of this instant we received more certaine intelligence by Letters out of the West of the still continued good hand of God unto us in Cornwall and in perticular of a brave defeat given to the Enemie by our forces there at or about Saint Cullumbe and the taking of that Garrison from the Enemies which being fully and faithfully set forth to the Parliament by master Rushworths Letter I have here thought fit to give the Reader a sight of the Copy thereof which was as followeth TO The Honorable William Lenthal Esq Sheaker of the Honorable House of COMMONS SIR BY the last Messenger the Packet from Ireland taken in the vessel at Padstow was sent unto you which I hope came safe to your hands by which original letters under the hand of the Earle of Glamorgan you will perceive how as yet he is imployed for the bringing over of an Army and what private correspondency there is between him the Prince the Lord Hopton and other persons of Note notwithstanding he is under the cloud of being accused of High Treason his being at liberty acting the Kings Commands in bringing over an Army of naturall Irish Rebels and his correspondency with the Prince Hopton c. is enough to satisfie the World by whose Command he manages that Affaire I also acquainted you with a Summons sent to the Lord Hopton or rather honorable conditions if he would instantly lay downe Armes and disband the Forces in the West which being sent unto him upon Thursday last and no Answer returned on Friday On Saturday the Army advanced towards Saint Collumb and being drawn to a Rendezuouz foure miles from Bodman the Weather proved so extreame wet that it was not held fit to advance on any further that day and so the Foot were appointed to Quarters in Villages thereabouts and a mile or two forwards The Horse being likewise at the Rendezvouz returned to their Quarters but some went to Quarter neerer the Enemy and to the Guards except a very good party of about eight hundred Horse and Dragoons commanded by Colonell Rich who was sent away with the same with Orders to fall upon the Enemie Guards or Quarters as he should see it most fit for the service and accordingly within two houres of Evening he fell upon their Out-guards neere St. Cullumb beat them to their Main-guard Being then drawn up in a Body ours likewise drew into three Divisions one commanded by Colonell Rich another by Major Fincher and the third by Major Scroop The Enemy seeing no way but to fight the Van of them gave a very good charge Major Generall Pâ—rt breaking through one Division himselfe But they were instantly put to the Rout and we had the pursuit of them for three or foure Miles killing many tooke about an hundred prisoners whereof Major Generall Pert was one and betwixt two hundred and three hundred Horse This so Alarm'd the Enemy that it made them desert the Head-quarter for a mile and caused them to draw all their Horse to a Rendezvouz at eleven of the Clock at night on Michel-Downe and so continued in the Wet in a great Raine till the next morning thinking the whole Army had been advanced Our party returned to St. Collumb and this morning brought the Prisoners to Towne This party of the Enemies were of the Princes own Regiment most of them Reformadoes Officers they confesse their Souldiers are very weary and that if it were published among them they might have Passes to go home it was not in the Officers power to keepe them together They likewise say that most of their Officers if they knew they might be accepted into the protection of the Parliament they would desert the Service Being askt if they had heard any Propositions were sent unto them from the Generall offering honorable conditions both to Officers and Souldiers they answered they never heard of any so by that we perceive the Lord Hopton with some few of his Councel keepes the propositions from being published There are some others come from thence who say that the French are mighty inquisitive to know whether they might be so far received into favour as to have leave to goe beyond seas Laying all these together we are of opinion that it will not be in Hoptons power to hinder a good effect to the propositions sent him so soon as the same is published amongst them which before this we hope by some means that hath beene used is effectually done This day the Generals Trumpeter that went with the sommons is returned with a briefe answer from the Lord Hopton to this purpose That he had taken the letter from the Generall into consideration but the suddaine advance of our forces gave an interruption to mention at this time any particulars but by a Trumpeter of his own he would send a particular answer The Trumpeter was curteously used and much respected This evening the Lord Hoptons Trumpeter is come with a letter in answer to the Generals propositions which indeed implies a willingnesse to end the businesse of the West without more blood shed but yet desires to be satisfied whether the King and Parliament be not neare a conclusion of a Peace for being intrusted by the King it concerns him to support his honour as long he can and yet withall inclines to have some Countrey Gentleman come unto him to satisfie him of the state of affaiers Taking altogether it argnes a coming to us though it seems yet a distance or else a way to get
now to Barnstable which place was of no small Concernment for the full setling of the pâ—ace of those parts whereof more in its due place About the 14. of this instant Aprill we received certaine intelligence by a Letter from that most faithfull valiant and Victorious Commander Colonell Mitton to the honourable Speaker of the House of Commons concerning the surrender of Ruthin castle to him for the use of the King and Parliament A Copie of which Letter for the Readers better content and fuller satisfaction I have here thought fit to insert as it was printed and published by authority of Parliament which was as followeth To the Honorable William Lenthal Esq Speaker of the Honorable House of COMMONS SIR THe Reducing of this Castle of Ruthin hath cost me more time and Ammunition than I expected when I first laid Siege to it At last having a Mine almost in a readinesse to spring and Batteries prepared for a Demi-Canâ—n and a Culverin to play upon it It was this day agreed to be Surrendred upon the Conditions in the inclosed Articles which I was willing to accept having perfect Information by some that escaped out of the Castle that there was in it Provision upon sufficient for two moneths longer which now I finde to be true And if I should have forced it I must have hazarded many men and made the place unserviceable which is of very great use to the Reâ—â—ement of this Country it being the most convenient place for a Garrison in all North-Wales as things now stand with us Yesterday befâ—â—e the breake of day a party of the Enemy out of Denbigh Castle being about sixscore and thirty mounted Fire-locks fell upon Captaine Richard Price his Quarters within two miles of this Towne but be was vigilant and his â—couts performed their duty so well that they were drawne into the field before they came upon them which gave him opportunity to avoid them and convey the Alarum to this Towne And thereupon Colonell Carter with a standing Horse-guard which we are saine to keepe in the field constantly to secure our Out quarters and Câ—ptaine Simkies with my owne Troope which was then upon the Guard in this Towne drew out and fell betweene them and Denbigh and within halfe a mile of their Garrison met with them and charged them â—o gallantly that they broke in upon them killed seven of them as is said upon the place and in the pursuit tooke foure Captaines one Lieutenant two Cornets divers Troopers and about fourty Horse with the losse of one man of our side The Siege at Hoult hath of late beene if great difficulty and hazard to those feâ— men I have there For the drawing off of the Cheshire Fire-locks from that Service without any privity gave the Enemy an advantage to burne the Guard the Fire-locks kept which cost the Countrey much to fortifie and above forty dwelling Houses more in the Towne and exposed my men who lay in open Qnarters and were fewer in number than the Enemy within were to their power which necessitated my men to be upon continuall duty Vpon the first of April the Enemy sallied out and fell upon Major Sadlers Quarters resolving to put all my men in that House to the Sword which they had beene like to effect had not a Guard which was placed in the Moâ—â—it erected by us three dayes before relieved them In this storme I lost sixe men and fourteene wounded if the Enemie there were killed their Commander Captaine Cottingham a Papist a Lieâ—tenant and two more and many wounded There hath beene never a day since but they sallied out constantly twice or thrice a day and as constantly beaten iâ— This service and the furnishing of such Garrisons which are reduced occasions the expence of very much Powder and Match and therefore I humbly desire that the Honourable House will be please to grant that I may have a hundred Barrels of Powder and foure or five hundred Firelocks sent me and that some course may be perscribed to convey it downe speedily the carriage and Convoy of the last Powder I had cost above halfe as much as the Powder was worth And further that they will be pleased to appoint a Governor for this Castle Lievtenant Colonel Thomas Mason is a very faithfull active and godly Gentleman and the most knowing man in his profession that we have in these parts having beene a Souldier above twenty yeeres and lost his command in Ireland because he refused to bear Arms against the Parliament and if this place were worthy of him I should make bold to recommend him to their consideration This neverthelesse I leave to their Wisdoms to determine and rest Your very humble Servant THO. MITTON Ruthin the 8. of April 1646. In that brave defeat given by Colonell Mittons forces to their Denbigh Enemies were taken these prisoners and prizes following Taken prisoners Captaine Winne Captaine Hugh Morris Captaine Morgan Captaine Pickering 1 Lievtenant 2 Cornets divers Gentlemen and Common-Souldiers 40. Horse divers Armes 7. slaine upon the place In Ruthin we tooke all their Armes and Ammunition Bag and Baggage and all the Irish therein were left to be disposed of by us according to the Ordinance of Parliament Also valiant and faithfull Sir Trenor Williams as we were credibly informed by letters out of Wales did bravely set upon 100. of the Enemies neere Ragland which belonged to the crooked now made Lord Charles Sommerset Governour of Ragland-castle where I say valiant Sir Trevor routed all the said party tooke 45. prisoners whereof one Captaine and 10. other Officers and Gentlemen 30. Horse 20. Muskets 12. Fire-locks 14. slaine on the place divers sorely wounded the rest fâ—ed and dispersed And 2. dayes after this fight there came in unto Sir Trevor Williams as we were certainly informed by letters from thence from Ragland-castle 2. Colonels 2. Lievtenant Colonells 3. Lievtenants 3. Cornets and 11. other Horsemen with them all Gentlemen of the upper-Countries desiring to submit themselves to the Parliament upon the Reading of which Letters aforesaid from Colonell Mitton the House ordered according to his desire that Lievtenant Colonell Mason should be Governour of Ruthin-castle And Master Fog the Minister a very faithfull and active Gentleman for the Parliament ever since these warres began who brought the Letter was called into the House of Commons and had 50. l. given him for his paines in bringing the same and for his other brave services in the field About the 16. of this instant April we received full assurance of the cleere and totall surrender of the strong Garrison of the City of Exeter by Letters out of the West a Copy of two wherof I have here thought fit for the Readers better content and satisfaction to insert which were as followeth Sir Having beene imployed in the agitating of the treatie for the surrendring of Exeter I might crave pardon if I give you not so full
Countries Liberties in collecting as truly and faithfully as I was able a Catalogue of the most eminent Persons and Commonders on the Parliaments Party also as I have done on the Kings who in this the Kingdomes Common calamity have been taken away out of this world of wretchednesse and valley of teares by the Sword of the enemy and so have as it were passed over by that sharp bridge to their long looked for and heartily hoped for heavenly Canaâ—n The most eminent Persons slaine on the Parliaments Party since the beginning of these unhappy Civill Warres 1 THe Lord St. Iohn Part 2 Page 198 2 The Lord Brooke p. 2 p. 272 3 Sir William Fairfax brother to the most noble and renowned Lord Fairfax p. 4. p. 33 4 Sir Iohn Meldrum p. 4. p 5 Major Generall Charles Fairfax Sonne to the aforesaid noble Lord Fairfax and brother to our present most renowned Generall Sir Thomas Fairfax slaine at Marston-moore fight 6 Colonell Essex p. 2. p. 198 7 Col. Hampden p. 2. p 8 Col. Tucker p. 2. p. 418 9 Lieut. Col. Ramsey p. 2 10 Serjeant Major Quarles p. 2. p. 216 11 Major Stawham a brave Scottish Gent. p. 2. p. 380 12 Major Fitz-Simons p. 4. p 13 Major Bradbury p. 4 p 14 Major Iackson p. 4. p. 123 15 Captain Lacis p. 2. p. 216 16 Cap. Lister p. 2. p. 230 17 Cap. Nuttie p. 2. p. 309 18 Cap. Massie p. 2. p. 410 19 Cap. Hunt p. 2. p. ibid 20 Cap. Oglesby p. 2. p. 221 21 Cap. Williams p. 2. p. 267 22 Cap. Pue p. 3. p. 278 23 Master Hugh Popham p. 3 p. 303 24 Major Haynes p. 4. p. 341 25 Cap. Dove p. 4. p. 257 26 Lieut Col. Ingoldsby p. 4 p. 401 27 Cap. Allen. p. 295 28 Major Francis Sydenham p. 119 29 Col. Iohn Gunter Some few more 't is probable there might be but I professe ingeniously and most sincerely not one more as yet come to my knowledge or spontaneously pretermitted by me in my most sedulous search over the whole Foure Parts of this our Parliamentary Chronologie which I have diligently done as well for satisfaction to the honest-hearted Readers touching the slaine I say on our side as those on the enemies side in which two so vastly discrepant and largely unequall Catalogues both for number and quality though ours I confesse especially considering some of them as most pious Saints and precious Patriots farre transcended the very best of the enemies for spirituall waight and worth the udicious and impartiall religious Reader may see by comparing them both together how the Lord our most righteous and gracious God hath put a difference between the precious and the vile and yet manifesting in some measure for just Causes best knowne to his owne unsearchable wisedome and I am sure for the best good of his beloved-ones every way that as touching the outward stroke of death I say in a Common calamity it hapneth to the good as to the bad and how dyeth the wise man but even as the foole as wise King Solomon witnesseth Ecclesiastes 2. 15 16. Note also yet once againe good Reader for the yet more remarkable manifestation of Gods righteousnesse and mercy in putting another most notable difference between the Army of his enemies and the Army of his Saints and Servants fighting his battailes that as was toucht before and shewne in the Catalogue of the slaine on the Kings fide in the very first set battaile and field fight that was fought by the enemy against the Parliament which was at Keinton or Edge-hill the Kings first great Lord Generall of all his Forces the Earle of Lindsey who should have been the great Atlas and Hercule in-upholder of the Kings so oft pretended and protested just Cause was one of the first that was slaine in that first famous Fight whereas both in that renowned Victory and in all the progresse of these bloody Broyles and most uncivill Civill Warres over the whole Kingdome even I say from that first Fight to this day both our most renowned Generalls I meane his Excellency the Right Honourable Lord Generall Robert Earle of Essex and the renowned Generall his Excellency Sir Thomas Fairfax that now is have both of them come off hitherto with abundance of honour and renowne not onely free from death but also ever blessed be the Lords wonderfull mercy in it not so much as toucht with the least wound or hurt on their bodies for ought that ever I yet heard to this present day The like also we may most happily and faithfully say of his Excellency renowned Generall Lesley Earle of Leven Lord Generall of the Forces of our loving and loyall Brethren of Scâ—tland the vertuous and Victorious Generall of the forces of the Associated Counties North-easterly I meane the most noble Earle of Manchester and the thrice noble and renowned Generall of our Northerne forces in Yorkeshire the valiant and victorious Lord Fairfax in which remarkable mercy and me thinks most excellent and eminent observation and for all which so rich so rare and singularly sweet free mercies and most admirable dispensations of Gods wonder-working wisedome mercy and justice power and protection over us and thus manifested to and for us a wicked and worthlesse Nation a sinfull and provoking people Blessing Honour Glory and Power be unto Him that sitteth upon the Throne and unto the Lambe for ever and ever Revel 5. 13. Amen and Amen A Table of all the most materiall Passages mentioned in this Fourth Part of The Parliamentary Chronicle And here I desire the Reader to take notice that all the Forts Townes Castles and Garrisons taken since Nasebie Fight are to be found in the particular Catalogue of them before A. ADvance of the Earle of Manâ—hester from York p. 6 Our formidable Army coopâ— up in the West p. 18 â—ur Army plotted against in Cornwall p. 21 Ammunition safely conveyed to Oâ—westree p. 22 A Commitiee for the Army appointed p. 36 An ignoble Act of the Kings in Cornwall p. 38 Array-men in the North surprized p. 39 Augmentation of Ministers meanes p. 41 Sir ' Antheny Ashley-Cooper stormes Sir John Strange-waies house p. 67 Captaine Allen beates the enemy p. 251 Suddaine alteration of things in Scotland p. 270 Alderman Adams chosen Lord Mayor of London p. 282 Abbington Forces beat the enemy p. 93 Assembly of Divines at Westminster p. 319 The Lord Ashton beaten and slaine p. 320 The Army new Modell'd p. 97 Ashbie Cavaliers soundly beaten at Cole-orton p. 104 Apsley-house taken p. 115 Activity of Abbington p. 126 352 132. Our Armies prosperous proceedings in the West p. Assizes of Oyer and Terminer revived p. 364 Admiralty of the Sea taken into consideration p. 143 A brave defeat given to the enemy at Axminster p. 70 Our Armies good successe in Cornwall p. 378 The answer of Sir Thomas Fairfax to Hoptons demands p. 393 Our Armies march Eastâ—â—rd out of Cornwall p. 400 Prosperous Affaires in Scotland
taken nor likely to bee without more assistance which also upon the advance of our Forces God delivered into our hands as in its due and proper place wee shall make more particular mention thereof and thereby most of the Northern parts were cleared as far as Newark save only Pomfret-castle and some few other strong Houses or Holds beyond York In all which the Lord our God made this most Noble and renowned Earl of Manchester a most victorious and glorious instrument About the eighteenth of this instant came certain intelligence out of the West that in the time of the Lord Generals unhappy enclosure in heathenish I had almost said hellish Cornwall by the Kings Forces who also at that time were in no little straits for want of provision for his Army also and was therefore forced to send into Sommersetshire for supplies therein wherof Leivtenant Generall Middleton watchfully having gotten intelligence and that there were divers Carriages and Waggons laden with necessaries for the King gotten together Hee very seasonably marched thither and met with them valiantly encountred their convoy slew and took about an hundred and forty Horse and many or most of the Carriages After which he marched farther toward Sherbor◠and sending our parties for intelligence was certainly informed that Sir Francis Dorrington Sir William Courtney and others in all about a thousand Horse and Dragoones were at Lamport Whereupon hee advanced with a party of five hundred Horse and Dragoones to Pederton where the enemy was in readinesse to receive him at his comming And being now in sight of each other Major Ennis and Major Car charged them most gallantly being seconded by Colonell Middleton who at the very first encounter Routed the Enemies Horse and Dragoones though their Dragoones had lined the Hedges and pursued them within half a mile of Bridgewater In which conflict hee took prisoners one Major three Captaines one Leivtenant two Cornets two Quarter-masters forty common Souldiers and fourescore Horses and killed fifty upon the place on our side Major Car was taken prisoner and only scure common Souldiers more and heer also ours took the Enemies Carriages And about the twentieth of this instant August wee received farther intelligence out of the West of some more good service done by this foresaid Leivtenant Generall Middleton since his so routing of Sir Francis Dorrington as aforesaid namely that hee fell upon the Enemies with a party of three hundred Horse and a hundred Dragoones at Farringdon neer Bristol where hee also most bravely dispersed the Enemy and took these prisoners following viz. Colonell Edward Bisse foure Captaines five Leivtenants one Cornet one Quarter-master a Chaplain of their Army and a Chirurgeon eight and thirty Troopers two Gentlemen Troopers twelve Foot Souldiers three barrels of powder with a good quantity of Match and Ball together with an hundred Horse Much also about the same time wee were for certain advertised out of Lancashire that a party of Prince Robbers forces being about three hundred of them whom hee left in that County and were going to fortifie Wiggen whereof Sir John Meldrum Commander in cheif in that County having certain intelligence hee sent a considerable party to them who surprised them all with all their Armes and Ammunition and so also utterly frustrated their intended designe August the two and twentieth 〈◊〉 credible information by Letters out of Lancas to London that the Lord Ogleby a Scotch incendiary fell upon Colonell Doddington neer Preston in Loncashire as hee was marching out of Yorkeshire to Sir John Meldrum then in Lancashire Colonell Doddington at the first had the worst but young Colonell Shuttleworth who indeed deserved to bee an elder brother for his activity and very gallant performances in this Service came in timely to the releif of that valiant Gentleman Colonell Doddington and put the Enemy consisting of foure hundred Horse to a totall Route slew many on the place and took many prisoners among whom were the Lord Ogleby himself Colonell Mynne and Leivtenant Colonell Huddlestone a man of power and much repute in Cumberland and divers other persons of quality Scottish Commanders and Gentlemen were taken prisoners they also took threescore Horse with their Riders and a party of these also endevouring to get to Latham-House as a place of retreat was surprised by our Forces which lay before Latham-House and every man of them taken prisoners Much also about the same time came certain and unquestionable intelligence that the Cavaliers were soundly cudgelled in Cheshire for Colonell Marrow a second Nimrod of those parts and indeed a stout Souldier and brave Commander issuing out of the City of Chester with about fourescors or an hundred Horse was received by a party of that most renowned and Religious Commander and loyall Patriot Sir William Breretons neer Crowton-House where wee kept a Garrison who most bravely routed the Colonell and in the conflict wounded him mortally of which wounds hee dyed the very next day in Chester at which time Sir William took many prisoners And Prince Robber to revenge the death of Colonell Marrow advanced next day with two of his best Regiments of Horse to beat back Sir William Breretons Forces but the Robber was routed and about foure hundred of his men slain on the place and taken prisoners In which conflict valiant and undaunted Captain Zanchie who commanded Sir Williams own Troop most gallantly pursued the enemy within pistoll-shot of the walls of Chester and valiant Lievtenant Colonell Jones performed his part in this conflict with no lesse valour and gallantry and a Corporall of Sir William Breretons Troop by name John Cooper seeing a most brave Horse which the Enemy could not get into the Church in Tarvin Town where the fight was very hot and furious but was fain to bee held by the bridle by one of the Enemies under the Church wall this brave spirited Corporall adventured to fetch the Horse away but they fired so fast out of the Church upon him that hee was forced twice to retreat but hee adventured the third time pistolled the enemy and so brought away the Horse which was valued to bee worth at least fourescore pound And about the same time the renowned Major Generall of Lancas Sir John Meldrum having notice of the Enemies marching toward Ormskirk made haste after them overtook them on Tuesday the twentieth of August in the Evening upon a Moore neer unto Ormskirk where they stood in Battalia and upon the first charge of our Musketteers which were under the command of Colonell Booth they all fled whereupon our Horse bravely fell upon them and totally routed them in the pursuite of whom they took about eight hundred Horse some Letters report a thousand and three hundred prisoners but by reason of the night comming so fast upon them they could not improve the Victory as otherwise they might have done but the Lord Byron and the Lord Mollenaux were
also about this time viz. the six and twentieth of this instant August wee received Letters from the Western parts of the kingdome that his Majesties and his Excellencies head-quarters were very neer to one another and that foure hundred of his Majesties Horse had cast themselves into three divisions and advancing neer my Lord Generalls Quarters and with disdainfull words reproaching them and challenging them to fight the brave young Gentleman Major Archibald Stranghan quickly apprehending the same and not able to indure desired that hee might receive so much honour from his Excellency as but to have Commission to charge them with an hundred Horse with which force though farre lesse in number than the Enemies hee doubted not hee said but by Gods assistance to return victorious This gallant motion of the young Gentleman being much applauded and well entertained hee received the first impression of the Enemy without moving from the place at all untill the Enemy being come neerer and almost brest to brest hee fired upon them at once with so much fury and so good successe that about twenty of them were observed to fall together on which the rest began to flye whereupon finding his opportunity and pursuing it hee was charged on by the second division and received them with such undaunted Spirits and magnanimity with his pistols that they also following the example of the former presently began to flie away confusedly not being able to endure the heat of this hot charge and fierce tempest After this also his pistols being discharged hee most unweariedly fell in pell-mell upon the Enemies last Division with the Sword and soon also enforced them to an ignominious flight unto the body of their Army which seeing the disorder of the Horse began to disband and flye themselves His Majesty was then not farre off in the Field and was a sad spectator of the Tragedy of his men And it was verily beleeved that had this valiant Scot been suddenly seconded to pursue home his Victory hee had taken his Majesty in the Field and totally routed his Army so great and generall was the distraction that at that present they were in For this brave service his Excellency rewarded the victorious Major with many thanks and appellations of honour and with a Horse esteemed to bee worth an hundred pound And about the seven and twentieth of this instant August it was for certain informed by Letters from Sir William Brereton to the Parliament that there being a great strength of the Enemy at Malpasse with intention to march into Wales after that bold and bloody Prince Robber Sir William Brereton sent out a party of Horse and Foot consisting of about eight hundred under the command of Leivtenant Colonell Jones The Enemy having notice of the said Party drew out all their Horse and Dragoones in Battalia consisting of about two thousand and placed their Musketteers in hedges and places of advantage Notwithstanding Leivtenant Colonel Jones with his Troop did most gallantly charge through two Divisions of the Enemy did great execution on them and returned without the losse of a man himselfe onely shot into the thigh the rest of the Troopes there being but four Troopes in all came up and some of the Foot after them and plaid their parts most bravely and with Leivtenant Colonell Jones gave another fieâ—ce charge upon the Enemy quite routed them some of them flying into Wales others into Chester ours took about an hundred and forty Horse and many prisoners the chief wherof were these Major Maxie or Murrey Major to Sir Charles Lucas Major Cromwell Major to the Duke of Yorkes Regiment Majoâ— Crathorn a Papist Captain Clavering or other to the late Colonell Clavering And the Commanders slain in this brave conflict were Colonell Baines Colonell Conyers Major Heskith another Major buryed at Chester and another Major buried at Malpasse One Leivtenant Colonell slain but not then known who hee was Captain Harris and Sir Marmaduke Langdale the Commander in chief desperately wounded and carryed to Chester for cure There were also slain upon the place and in the flight about an hundred and those that fled to Chester were with much affront kept out of the gates and not suffered of a long time to get in as some that came out of Chester shortly after enformed us About the eight and twentieth of this instant August wee were credibly informed by Letters out of the West and in specially by the most noble Lord Generall his Excellencies own Letter to the Parliament from Lestithiell that the perfidions Enemy who dare not compasse their base aymes and designes in an open fair and honourable way by battail though double in number had about this time so managed their base and trecherous plot that into two close Waggons wherein was a Magazine of at least 60 barrells of Gunpowder they had privily conveyed two notable Engines of Warre which should have blown up all the powder and at the time when the enemy thought to have effected the design they had drawn up their whole body of their Army toward that part of his Excellencies Army expecting the blow upon which they intended to fall most fiercely on the Lord Generals Forces but it most graciously pleased the Lord that one of the said Engines to the end whereof a lighted match was fastned was burnt to the very neck of the Engine whereat it was to give fire to the wild-fire in the Engine but then the coal went out of it self the other match also in the other Engine was burnt within an inch of the wilde-fire of that Engine just at the time when by a Cooper it was seasonably and happily discovered before the dangerous blow was given whereupon the Engines being taken out by the said Cooper and brought to my Lord Generall which his Excellency together with his Letter presently sent up to the Parliament and was publikely shewed to the Houses of Parliament and as some that were there present said it was just after that fashioned Engine which his Majesty delivered with his own hands being covered with red leather as that was to the party that made his Majesty beleeve that hee would blow up the Magazine at Ailesbury but as that so this most base and treacherous Designe of theirs was by Gods great mercy and good providence happily prevented and their wicked hopes thereby frustrated and all they got thereby was shame and infamy And thus now I hope good Reader thou hast fully and clearly seen in the whole progresse of this Moneths contemplation of Gods wonderfull protection and preservation of his Church and Children the great and amazing wonder of the World in these our Mosean dayes even The Burning-Bush the Church or Cause of God not consumed though inclosed with flames of wrath and rage of the wicked and outragious intestine enemies thereof on every side both by Sea and by Land blowing the coales and adding combustible fuell
in their calling of an Assembly of Divines to that purpose by their endevours since to remove all obstructions and misunderstandings among them that might hinder the work by their farther late proceedings for the setling of a godly and painfull Ministery in London and many other parts of the Kingdome within their power together with divers other wayes as might bee instanced which may bee as so many sufficient testimonies of their fervent and faithfull zeal therein And lastly to testifie their most earnest desire to remove all impediments that might hinder a speedy settlement in Religion the Commons taking into consideration the many stops and hinderances in the Assembly by reason of some differences among themselves they ordered that the Committee of Lords and Commons should treat with the Commissioners of Scotland and the Assembly about settling a union in point of Church-Government among those Divines which were of a contrary opinion and in case it could not bee then to finde out away how tender consciences might bee born withall so far forth as might stand with the peace and safety of the Kingdome and as was warranted by the Word of God that so the Service of the Assembly might not bee retarded And the Assembly of Divines having agreed on the names of such Ministers as they thought fit to bee entrusted with the matter of Ordination pro tempore within the City of London there being 23 of them whereof 13 of the City Ministers and the other 10 of the Assembly who presented the same to the Commons which they passed also with full approbation of them and the said Ordinance was by a message from the Commons sent up to the Lords desiring their concurrence therein to which also the Lords immediately assented and the Ordinance came forth in Print with the full and joynt authority of both Houses of Parliament and the thing it self divers times put into execution in divers Churches in London in such a holy reverend and religious manner as did exceedingly joy the hearts of all Gods people to see in the most pious and apostolicall performance of it About the 20 of this instant wee were most credibly informed by Letters out of Leicestershire of an excellent exploit performed by a party of Leicester Horse against that old and bold Rob-Carryer Hostrings forces which was thus certified viz. That a party of Horse about 80 in number going from Leicester as a convoy to certain Carriers of Nottingham the passage by reason of the Enemies Garrisons there about being full of danger so that no Carriers durst adventure to passe without a convoy Wherof Hastings having had intelligence and that there was a prize to bee preyed on hee presently sent out a party of about an 120 Horse at least against them but they comming too short of the Carriers who were before his comming safely lodged in Nottingham and the Convoy returning to Leicester Hastings Forces placed their ambuscadoes and lined the hedges on both sides of a Lane where Leicester Forces were to passe through neer unto a Town called Castâ—ck within 5 miles on this side Nottingham and accordingly gave the said Convoy an unexpected salute in their said return but they very gallantly forced their passage through the Lane which done they wheeled about again upon the Enemy beat them from the hedges miserably routed and disperst their whole party killed and took above 60 of them prisoners the rest that escaped leaving all their armes behinde them for haste and they took 90 good horses from them besides In which action Leicester forces lost not one man only Leivtenant Steevens who deserved much honour for his gallant undertaking in this Service was shot in the back but not mortally wounded After which exploit thus bravely performed by a party of but 86 against at least an 120. the Convoy returned saâ—e unto Leicester with all their prisoners and prizes and were entertained with much joy and triumph About September 23. wee received certain information by Letters both from the right noble and renowned Patriots and magnanimous Commanders Sir William Brereton Sir Thomas Middleton and as virtuous as valourous Sir John Meldrum to the Parliament bearing date the 18 19 of Septem 1644. of a most famous and renowned victory obtained by Gods great mercy and goodnesse by their forces against the Enemy at the raising of the sâ—ege before Mountgomery-Castle the substance of all which three noble Commanders Letters to the Parliament I have heer for the Readers better content and satisfaction faithfully extracted and Composed together in this relation following Immediately after renowned Sir Thomas Middleton had been possessed of the strong and advantageous Castle of Mountgomery it was suddenly and closely besieged again by a very strong power of the Enemies Forces before ours could bring in any competent provision for that Garrison and both the Lord Herbert of Cherbury Colonell Price and most of Sir Thomas Middletons brave Officers and neer 500 Souldiers were all thereby much distressed and in great danger which brave Sir Thomas Middleton perceiving and laying neer to heart himself also being necessitated to a retreat and hee having in his retreat safely recovered Oswestry hee presently hasted into Cheshire unto renowned Sir William Brereton his ever fast friend who indeed like a faithfull Achates never failed him and instantly also expedited messengers into Lâ—ncashire to valiant Sir John Mâ—ldrum and brave Sir William Fairfax in all whom hee found a great deal of forwardnesse and cheerfull readinesse both to help the said distressed Castle and to preserve what they had but lately before gotten from the Enemy viz. 37 barrels of powder 12 barrels of brimstone store of Match and other Ammunition which the Enemy exceedingly wanted all which ours I say had a little before taken as it was comming from Bristol and was intended for the releif of Shrewsbury Chester and Leverpool Now all these foresaid noble and renowned Commanders speedily assembled and marched together toward Mountgomery-castle with 30â—0 Horse and Foot and came thither on Septem 17. resolving to contribute their best endevours in this expedition in regard of the great importance of the Service They lay that night in a field most advantageous for them which the Enemy had possest themselves of before but deserted at our Forces comming thither placing themselves on the mountain above the Castle a place of great advantage for them our forces resolved not to goe to them but to endevour to victuall the Castle and sent out parties for the bringing in of provisions to the Castle even a third part of our Horse being thus employed abroad for victualls and forrage for the Castle which the Enemy perceiving they took the opportunity and thereupon marched down in a body toward us both Horse and Foot being in number full 5000 Horse and Foot whom that bloody Lord Byron commanded in Cheif and came up to our Forces to give them battail with great courage and resolution
thinking at the first to have broke through our Forces and to have made themselves Masters of the Bridge which ours had gained the night before which indeed would have cut off the passage of our retreat But valiant Sir John Meldrum who had the command and ordering of our Forces performed the charge with admirable judgement dexterity and resolution and therefore as noble Sir William Brereton testified of him deserved a large share in the honour of that dayes successe but indeed the whole honour and glory of it all was to be given and ascribed to God only the giver of all Victories Ours by the foresaid fierce assault of Byrons Forces so desperately on us were so hardly tasked by their multitude that the Commanders and Souldiers were constrained deeply and most undauntedly to engage their utmost valour and courage and behaved themselves as indeed by Gods providence it was manifested most extraordinary gallantly for it was a while very dubious and uncertain which way the Lord would incline the Victory yea and at last it came to push of Pike wherein they were much too hard for ours they having many more Pikes than wee insomuch that our Horse was worsted at the beginning of the battail and forced a while to retreat but it so pleased the Lord at last to put such an unanimous Spirit and undaunted courage and resolution both in our Horse and Foot animated on by the admirable examples of their so renowned Leaders and Commanders Sir John Meldrum Sir William Brereton Sir Thomas Middleton Sir William Fairfax who had the Command of the Horse who did most valiantly set upon the Enemies Horse and engaged himself so farre that hee was taken prisoner but was presently fetched off by the valour of his own men but yet mortally wounded but as I said before God had put such a spirit of undaunted resolution and courage into the hearts both of Sir William Fairfax his men and indeed of all the rest that they resolved to fight it out to the last man insomuch that when the battail was now in a most anxious and uncertain condition our extremity was Gods opportunity to magnifie his power and on a suddain with one fresh and valiant charge our Souldiers routed the Enemy and put their whole Army to a most shamefull retreat or rather indeed a plain flight pursuing them divers miles together even in the Mountaines and performed great execution on them And as I should have told you our men when the battail was in the hottest issued out of the Castle and fell upon the enemies that were in their trenches and took divers of their Officers and Souldiers whom they had left to keep their workes In which foresaid fight and flight of the Enemies wee slew at least 500 of their common Souldiers besides many Officers and men of quality wounded many more and took neer upon 1500 prisoners among whom were these Officers and Commanders viz. Colonell Sir Thomas Tilsley their Major Generall Colonell Broughton Leivtenant Colonell Bladwell Major Williams 9 Captains 17 Leivtenants 1 Quartermaster 3 Cornets 22 Ensignes 52 Sergeants 57 Corporalls and 11 Drums Our Souldiers also took at this time neer 2000 armes most for foot all their Carriages and neer 20 barrels of powder wherewith they had been furnished the night before Sir William Brereton with his brave Cheshire foot and among them Major Lowtham especially who Commanded as Major Generall did most admirably in this fight and fought more like Lions than men as noble Sir John Meldrum himself testified of them and did beat the best Foot in England as the very Enemies themselves confest being all Prince Robbers foot and indeed the choycest foot out of all their Garrisons But noble and renowned Sir William Fairfax as I toucht before was mortally wounded by at least 15 wounds upon his body as also Major Fitz-Simons a brave Souldier who both behaved themselves most admirably and with invincible courage in this terrible battail and with great and most just lamentation for their losse dyed of their wounds immediately after the fight together with some few others of our Captaines and Officers of horse but it was verily beleeved wee lost not 40 men slain in this fight nor had above 60 of our Souldiers wounded Thus by Gods blessing the Castle was every way most valiantly releived brave Sir Thomas Middletons Souldiers who before were as prisoners were now set free from danger together with the Lord Herbert of Cherbury and all of them put into a comfortable posture and by this so terrible a blow the best of the Enemies foot ruinated and taken from them as also Shrewsbury Chester and Leverpool unfurnished of their hoped Ammunition and our selves plentifully furnished and heerby Northwales which formerly had been the nursery for the Kings Armies most probable in good time to shake off that yoke of Servitude which formerly lay so heavily upon their necks by the example of Mountgomery-castles safety which is indeed one of the goodliest and strongest places that is in the Kingdom And now say good Reader did not heer the Lord our God let us conspicuously see that great wonder of the Bush his Church or Children in the midst of a furious flame indeed and yet not consumed therewith but rather contrariwise flourishing in the flames and destroying the destroyers and quenching the crackling thorns of the ungodly under the boyling pot of their implacable wrath and fiercest fury Not unto us therefore Lord not unto us but unto thy name alone Wee give all the honour and glory But heer give me leave good Reader to acquaint thee I holding it very pertinent to this present businesse with one more most noble and renowned action which much honoured that brave Commander Sir John Meldrum who immediately after this famous Victory was yet so sensible of the losse of that noble Gentleman and most brave Commander Sir William Fairfax that apprehending and that most rightly and religiously the affliction would bee great to his deer surviving virtuous Lady as indeed it was sad to her and to the whole kingdom hee procured from among the Souldiers or Chirurgeons not without some difficulty the Diamond-Ring that was on Sir Williams finger and the bracelet of gold that was about his arm when hee was slain in the fight and sent them up to his Lady together with a Letter so full of noble and most pious expressions as it hath justly added much to his other actions of honour And when these things were denyed him by some Chirurgeons and by some others also claiming them to bee their due hee drew up some of his horse and said hee would deal with them as with enemies if they did not deliver the same to bee sent to his Lady Sir Thomas Middleton likewise wrote a Letter of much respect and consolation to the Lady Fairfax Who like a most heroick and pious Lady told her friends about her That shee greived not that
fell valiantly upon their works and forced the Enemy into the pallisadoes and got over the first and second pallisadoes notwithstanding the great and small shot both from the works and the ships and pinnace in both the rivers of Wye and Severn and being himself thrown down to the ground by a leap which his horse made over the ditch hee himself first entring a Musketteir of the enemies gave fire at him but by Gods good providence missed his mark and being somewhat neer him as soon as hee had discharched hee turned the Buttâ—end of his musket and strook at the Colonell and with the force of the blow strook off his head-peice all which was so suddainly done that the brave Colonell had no time to consider the danger hee was in but being of an undaunted spirit hee now had recovered himself and instantly charged the Musketteir and kild him on the place and by this time was valiant Colonell Harley also entred into the second pallisado with his horse and so fully releived and remounted Colonell Massie and presently after him came also Colonell Kerle and so they all together made a most furious onset upon the Enemy and fell to it pell-mell with their Swords Muskets and Pistols now the Enemy seeing himself so hard beset and that there were little or no hope to doe any good they began to run away apace and Sir John Winter himself that grand Papist who had alwayes shewed himself exceeding active in the Papist cause being now amongst them and who to give him his due stood stoutly upon his guard with a fire-pike a while till Colonell Kerle discovering who hee was cryed out that 's Winter that 's Winter pistoll him pistoll him whereupon hee flung down his pike and tumbled himself down the steep banck or hill where the pallisado stood where his neck contrary to all likelihood incurred not the act of breaking and so hee escaped but his horse was taken but yet 230 men that might have escaped the same way durst not follow his example therein and so were all taken prisoners among whom was Leivtenant Colonell Powell Sir Ralph Hoptons own Major together with divers other Commanders and Officers and neer 10 slain upon the place wee took there also 8 barrels of powder 4 Drakes and 4 Iron-peices 200 Armes with many horse and furniture And that which was further observable was this that Prince Robber was to have been there the next night after it was thus taken by us and his bed was set up and fairly furnished for him and hee was to have joyned with Colonell Gerard but now was by Gods great mercy and good providence prevented therein All which service was thus most bravely performed by this victorious Colonell through Gods gracious assistance with the losse of only 10 of his own men and some few wounded This exploit was of great concernment to us in regard that it hinders all manner of provisions from the Enemy at Bristoll and stops the passage from Wales so that they can have no supply of men from thence which consideration indeed made the enemy so eager to have possessed themselves of that advantageous passage Many Colonells I justly and ingenuously acknowledge have done bravely but brave and ever to bee renowned Massie hath excelled them all and that which challengeth eternall fame and datelesse splendour to his illustrious name and indelible honour is his constant persevering in all his most noble actions free from self-aymes and ends not ambitious nor proud of his many incomparable Victories not covetous but truely gallant and noble Hold on then renowned Massie and certainly the illustrious name and fame of Massie more precious than Massie-gold shall never dye but ever fairly flourish whiles England stands But to goe on About the 16 of this instant wee had also indubitable information out of the North that the base and bloody Irish-Rebels having sent a ship with 8 great peices of Ordnance 20 double-barrels of powder and good store of other Ammunition into White-Haven in Cumberland intended for the releif of Carlile being then distressed for want of powder and such other Ammunition Sir Wilfrid Lawson who had raised a Regiment in Cumberland for the service of the Parliament happily surprized her in the said Haven by manning out some men in boats and so seized upon the said Ship Ordnance and Ammunition Much also about the same time came certain news from Pool of the taking of an 100 brave horse of the Queens own Regiment 2 Colours a Masse-book and other Popish trumpery 40 prisoners then taken and 16 killed on the place by the brave Governour of Pool who victoriously returned thither again with all the said Horse and prisoners with the losse of but one man of his This brave exploit was performed between Pool and Blanford And about the same time wee had certain intelligence out of the North that valiant Colonell Lambert since his and Colonell Sandys taking a Troop of Horse in Craven hath taken a 120 horse more from the Enemy at Plumpton in Yorkeshire together with an Irish-Rebell their Commander whom they took prisoner with the rest And much about this time also a petition was presented to the Parliament by that virtuous and religious Gentlewoman Mistris Bastwick wife to that heroick-hearted Gentleman and famously suffering servant of the Lord Jesus Christ Dr. John Bastwick for some allowance for herself and children and toward the present maintainance of her said Husband then a prisoner in the Castle of Knarsborough in Yorkeshire for the Parliaments Cause as hee had formerly lyen prisoner a long time in the Island of Silly in Cornw. for pieties and religions Cause which her petition was very freely and favourably entertained by the House of Lords and by them sent to the House of Commons to desire their concurrence therein who accordingly most willingly agreed thereunto and the sum of an 100 pound was presently ordered to bee paid unto her out of Haberdashers-Hall in London and which shee immediately received thence as was ordered And shortly after this it pleased the good hand of Gods providence so to order it that by the indefatigable pains and care of Mistris Bastwick and of Colonell Hudlestones wife hee being then a prisoner in the Towre of London the said noble Dr. was upon exchange for the said Hudlestone released out of prison from Knaresborough Castle as aforesaid where and also in the Castle in York hee had indured much wrong and great affliction but now was I say returned home to London with abundance of honour and most welcome entertainment to the City of London and to all the honest-hearted-Christians therein yea most welcome I say to his dear Wife and Children And O thrice happy Gentleman indeed say I heerin especially namely that having most magnanimously and with invincible Christian courage and wisdome passed as the Poet sang Per varios casus per tot discrimina rerum and now
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
to the gates and first brake open the Sand-gate the Enemy having made fast and baricadoed all the gates and then our horse also forced open the Closse-gate whereupon the Enemy dispersed themselves many of them betook themselves to the Angell at the Closse-gate others to another house at the Sand-gate but our men seeing them thus housed fired both of them and in the mean season most bravely skirmished with the Enemy without but the fire taking on the foresaid houses they within them were forced to surrender themselves prisoners to us Whereupon our men helped to quench the fire and so obtained a very considerable Victory for they there took prisoners Colonell Francis Cook Leivtenant Colonell Francis Hook 2 Captains Leivtenant Relsoll 2 Cornets 3 Quartermasters one Mr. Alexander a Gentleman of quality and 40 common Souldiers besides an 163 good horses 200 armes some Match and powder and other good purchase one Captain and divers others were slain on the ground one Sergeant Major sorely wounded and divers other Officers and Souldiers who by the opportunity of the night escaped our hands This service was most gallantly performed on our part for wee had but 2 of ours slain on the place some few wounded and Captain Feiler hurt and this was all the losse on our part blessed bee the Lord for it About the 6 of this instant December there was a great dispute in the House of Commons about the calling home of all the Members of Both Houses of Parliaments from their Offices and imployments both in the war otherwise that so the Houses being completed with their Members here might be a more suddain surer dispatch and transaction of businesses and for clearing the publicke prejudice concerning personall respects to themselves And heerin also they seriously took into consideration the slow proceedings of our Armies abroad and the not prosecuting of advantages when God in mercy gave them into our hands tending much to the prolongation of this most unhappy Warre and withall resenting that those differences which were then among our Commanders were commonly most where the command was greatest For these and such like weighty considerations I say the House of Commons put this great and most weighty businesse to the Vote in their House and the very same motion was also made by an honourable personage in the House of Peeres and many Votes and suffrages passed about it pro and con But at last it was agreed on and a Vote passed clearly with a most unanimous consent and as I take it Nemine contradicente by the House of Commons in Parliament Assembled to this effect That no Member of either House of Parliament shall during this warre enjoy or execute any Office or Command Military or Civill which hath been granted to or conferred on any Member of either House or by any authority derived from either House and that an Ordinance bee brought in accordingly This Ordinance or Vote was afterward accordingly Printed and published by authority and was very fitly called The Self-denying Ordinance whereof more hereafter in a more proper place And for the more serious and religious managing and establishing of this great Vote and the other weighty affaires of the Kingdome depending hereon and hence issuing our most renowned Worthies of the House of Commons Ordered that Wednesday the 10 of December then next ensuing should bee set apart for the keeping of a private Fast by both Houses of Parliament so to seek the Lord and implore a blessing from Almighty God upon their farther proceedings in the grand affaires of State to bee agitated and negotiated on this vote And reverend and religious Mr. Marshall Mr. Sedgewick and Mr. Hill were intreated to Preach and carry on the work of that day with them And was not heer a work hopefull indeed to end well which was so well begun A Jove owne principium Certainly if God hath made it known unto us That hee is found of those that seek him not much more unquestionably will hee bee found of those that seek and seriously enquire after him And so truely wee have blessedly found it as I shall make most clear to the godly Reader by many most remarkable and memorable testimonies and demonstrations thereof in their succeeding proper places But to goe on About the 10 of this instant wee were credibly assured by Letters out of Lincolnshire that a brave Party of the Parliaments forces in those parts led by valiant and virtuous Colonell Rainsborough under the Command of the Earl of Manchester having much battered Crowland with the Ordnance which they brought by Water in long Boats against it the Enemy at last was forced to a parley which was assented to upon the conclusion whereof it was agreed by both parties that the Enemies forces should march out of the Town the Commanders and Officers with their Swords and Pistols but the common Souldiers to leave all their Armes behinde them as also all the Ordnance and Ammunition therein to bee left for the Parliaments use which accordingly was performed And thus this place of so great concernment that at this time many hundred by Land and by Water were fain to bee imployed against only a few men within it and yet receiving many checks and affronts many times by sallies out of the Town was now thus at last surrendred again into the Parliaments possession This Town had been twice lost and recovered by us which had it not now might have proved a kinde of scurvey Dunkirk to the Parliament both by land and water too had the Enemy continued in it and thereby better manned and fortified it as they might and would have done had they not so soon been thus beaten out of it December the 12 wee were certainly informed out of the West of a singular good peice of service performed by that most valiant active and faithfull Commander Colonell Massie who heaâ—ing that a party of the Enemies Horse from Bristol had some designe about Chippingham in Wilts hee sent out his Scouts who discovered them to bee that night quartered at Sedbury in Gloucestershire some 9 miles from Bristol and the just middle way from Bristol to Chippingham Whereupon hee presently advanced with a considerable party from Malmesbury some 10 miles from Sedbury and with accustomed undaunted courage falling on the Enemies quarters hee there surprised and took an 160 of their horse 100 armes 50 prisoners together with 12 Captains Leivtenants and other Officers the rest of the Enemies leaving their design for lost fled back again with haste into Bristol And about the 14 instant came certain intelligence by Letters from Oswestre from Sir Thomas Middleton of some considerable action and good service performed by our forces thereabout the substance whereof was to this effect That now at length the long looked for Colonell Beal was blessed bee God come safely to Sir Thomas Middleton into Mountgomery-shire and that Colonell Carter with our Horse and
hee desired to see Whereupon Mr. Strange went immediately to a hole in the canapy of his bed and produced the Commission and read it to him and having read it hee put it into his pocket In the interim came Leivtenant John Stubbin Leivtenant to Major Moll with 5 Souldiers more all in the habit of poore Sea-men apparelled like ship-broken men with a Warrant to attatch suspicious persons who came begging to the doore and somewhat boldly getting within the Court-yard of the said house being so ordered by the Governour who as soon as they were up to the doore of the House the Gentlewoman of the house came running up to Mr. Strange and told him there were 6 or 7 poore Souldiers come from Lyn a begging Mr. Strange presently sent them down a shilling and wished them to bee gone and Mistris Paston went downe to barre the door which Captain Lemon seeing winckt upon the foresaid Corporall there present to lay hold on Mr. Strange which instantly done hee gave a stamp with his foot by which the Leivtenant knew what hee had to doe whereupon Mr. Strange seeing hee was betrayed conveyed his Commission to Captain Lemon out of the frying-pan into the fire then the Leivtenant not taking notice of the person of the Captain as known to him or as set purposely to ensnare Strange did first attach Mr. Strange as an Enemy to the Common-wealth and demanded his name which hee refused to tell then hee required his Commission but hee denyed to have any Heerupon the Leivtenant seeing Captain Lemon demanded what hee was and what hee did there consulting against the State telling him hee was a stinking knave and searched him for the commission and finding it in his pocket took it from him and set a guard over him and another over Mr. Strange and would not suffer them to speak each to other by the way from Appleton-Hall to Lyn whither they were brought prisoners to the Governour with the Commission all which was done by order and consent of the Governour and Captain Lemon before Mr. Strange his apprehension which said Mr. Strange was immediately brought up to London and committed to safe custody and the Commission sent up to the Parliament the Copy whereof I have heer also inserted which was as followeth His Majesties Commission granted to Mr. Roger le Strange for the betraying of the Town of Lyn-Regis into the hands of the Enemy Charles Rex VVEE having received from our trusty and well-beloved Roger le Strange declarations of the good affection of divers of our well-affected Subjects of our County of Norfolk and Suffolk and particularly of our Town of Lyn as also some overtures concerning the reducing of our said Town of Lyn Wee have thought fit forthwith to return our Royall thanks unto our said well-affected Subjects and particularly to give our said trusty and well-beloved Roger le Strange these encouragements to proceed in our service principally in the work of reducing the said Town of Lyn. 1. That in case that attempt shall bee gone through withall hee the said Roger le Strange shall have the Government of the place 2. That what engagement shall bee made unto the inhabitants of the said place in any other person capable of contributing effectually to that service by way of reward either in employment in his Majesties Navy or Forts or Money not exceeding the summe of 5000 pounds the service being performed shall bee punctually made good unto them 3. That they shall in this work receive what assistance may bee given them from any of our merest Garrisons And lastly that when ever our said Town shall bee reduced unto our obedience Wee shall forthwith send thither 〈◊〉 a considerable power as shall bee sufficient to releive and preserve them Wee being at present even without this fully resolved to send a considerable power to encourage our faithfull Subjects in those parts and to regain our rights and interests therein By his Majesties Command George Digby Given at our Court at Oxford this 28 of November 1644. And much about the foresaid time wee had certain intelligence of the releiving of that brave courageous and pious people in the good and strong Garrison of the Town of Iounton-Dean whereof that ever to bee honoured faithfull Gentleman and most courageous Commander Colonel Blake was Governour and where Prince Maurice and his thousands were after a long siege most shamefully beaten away and many precious soules in the said Town preserved from the bloody rage and intended cruelty of those blood-thirsty and lustfull Enemies those scelerous sons of violence a most renowned peice of Gods providence and mighty mercy to those Western parts never to bee obliterated out of theirs and our most gratefull remembrance Since which wee also were most certainly informed by Letters out of those parts that Major Generall Holborn marched with a party to the Lord Pawlets House where hee took 30 horses many prisoners and divers armes and made himself Master of that Garrison From whence hee marched to the House of one Mr. Arundell a notorious Papist at a place called Chadwick where hee beat the Enemy out of that pernicious nest and took some of them prisoners After this also hearing that divers of the Enemies forces were got into Sir John Pooles House hee marched toward them but the Enemy hearing of his approach that way fled to Exeter And the like did another party of the Enemies at Mr. Crewes House setting it on fire they fled away Thus this most active and valiant Commander ferretted the Enemies out of their sculking holes in those parts and procured much security to the inhabitants thereabout December the 20. the Parliament taking into their serious consideration that the time was neer approaching for the annuall chusing of Officers in the most famous City of London according to their anniversary custome and well knowing that the good government thereof doth cheifly depend upon the faithfulnesse and integrity of publick Officers especially in these times of so much trouble and danger It was therefore Ordered in Parliament that no person should bee elected to bee of the Common-Councell or into other Offices in the City of London who have not voluntarily contributed upon the Propositions according to an Ordinance in Parliament of the 29 of November 1642. or who have otherwise testified their dis-affection to the Parliament or who have not taken the solemn League and Covenant And that no such person shall have any voice in such elections or any else who have been imprisoned or whose estates have been sequestred for Malignancy against the Parliament And the right honorable Thomas Atkin Lord Major of the City of London and the Aldermen in their severall Wards were required to see the due execution thereof About the 23 instant wee had certain intelligence from Northhampton of singular good service done in those parts by Captain Redman who with a party of Northampton horse marched out and fell
upon a party of the Enemies horse but then newly come from Oxford to doe some mischeif in those parts of whom divers were taken prisoners by the said valiant Captain Redman and the rest soundly beaten among those that were taken prisoners were Sir John Feunick Sir Thomas Strickland the Lord St. Paul a Frenchman and 15 more some were slain and many wounded the rest ran like brave Oxonians to save themselves but they left behinde them at least 30 horse and a rich Sumpter together with good quantity of Armes and Ammunition And at the same time wee were certainly informed that Knaresborough castle in Yorkeshire was surrendred to the thrice noble and renowned Lord Fairfax and in it good store of Armes powder and Ammunition with some Ordnance and other good booty viz. especially some hundred pounds in ready money and about 1500 pounds worth of Plate silver and guilt And about the 26 of this instant December wee were certainly informed by Letters from Radcastle that those 2 most loyall and renowned Commanders Sir Thomas Middleton and Colonell Mitton had taken a strong Garrison of the Enemies neer Mountgomery called Abby-cumhire This House had formerly been a Romish-Abby and was strongly built of stone upon their first comming before it they summoned it but upon the Enemies denyall to surrender Sir Thomas Middletons and Colonell Mittons old Souldiers assisted by Colonell Beal and Leivtenant Colonell Carters souldiers who were then lately come to them out of South-Wales and with brave resolution fell upon the Enemy and stormed and took the House in a short time where they took prisoners Colonell Barnard Governour of the Castle Hugh Floyd Esquire a Commissioner of Array in those parts and High-Sheriffe of that County and one of those that were excepted by the Proposition for Peace at Vxbridge to have no pardon 2 Captaines of Foot one Captain of Horse a Captain Leivtenant 3 Leivtenants a Foot Colours one Cornet of Horse 4 Sergeants 8 Corporalls 2 Trumpetters 4 Drums 60 common Souldiers 3 barrels of powder 60 firelocks 40 Horse 40 horse armes besides 200 Muskets and some other armes and ammunition By the taking of which said strong Garrison the Counties thereabouts are freed from much danger of their cruell Enemies who had before used many of the inhabitants with much severity About the 28 of this instant wee received credible information by Letters out of Staffordshire that Captain Stone the valiant Governour of Eccleshall castle having intelligence that some parties of the Enemies were abroad out of Tongue castle hee thereupon marched out of Eccleshall with a party of horse found them and fell upon them and in the fight slew divers of them took prisoners the Governour of Tongue castle divers Officers 200 common Souldiers and 50 horse with some other good booty And by Letters out of the West wee were farther informed about the same time that Major Dewet performed a brave exploit upon the Enemy at West Dean which was thus related Sir our brave-spirited Major but shortly after this a base apostate from us marched with his men from about Malmsbury toward our Garrison by West-Dean and by the way hee fell upon a quarter of the Enemies at Rushall neer Vphaven where there were quartered about 36 of Captain Paddons Troop who entituled themselves The Wiltshire Troope where after some hot and testy dispute he took prisoners Leivtenant Borrow Leivtenant of Horse commanding the Troop George Warner a Reformado Captain a Leivtenant of Foot 2 more Reformado Officers 6 Troopers 20 good horse and armes and other good prize for his Souldiers without the losse of any one man or horse on his side And about the same time wee had farther certain intelligence of another brave exploit performed against the Newarkers by valiant Colonell Thorney and the Nottingham Forces who took a considerable Garrison from the Enemies neer Newark viz. Sir Roger Coopers House and in it Sir Roger himself and his brother and 50 prisoners with their armes and ammunition And about the 30 of this instant December an Agent of the most illustrious Queen of Sweden was admitted with honourable reception into the Parliament the representative Body of the Kingdome of England with his Letters to the Parliament from the said most Royall Princesse which were then opened and after the translating of them out of the Latine-tongue in which they were writen they were read in Parliament The effect and substance of which was That the said thrice noble Queen of Swethland with her Nobles and whole State desired to associate themselves and to keep faire and loving correspondence with the Parliament and State of England and to enter into the Solemn League and Covenant with them for the mutuall defence of the true Reformed Protestant Religion A rare mercy indeed thus to see another Protestant Kingdome desire to joyn with us in this blessed work of setting the Lord Christ upon his Throne as our most loyall and loving brethren of Scotland have done to the high honour and glory of God and good of his Church And with this so sweet a mercy I shall heer most fitly close up this moneths most famous blessings on this Burning-Bush the Parliaments honest and upright Cause And heer now therefore good Reader let mee intreat thee to make a little stay and therein to stand amazed at this even senseastonishing Parliamentary-wonder to see and consider in this one Moneths contemplation thereof this Burning-Bush thus still Vnconsumed I mean the Parliaments just Cause and quarrell in the middest of so many devouring flames of bloody bickerings and perfidious plots and trecheries as have been fore-mentioned to stand upright still undestroyed yea contrariwise more and more flourishingly and fairly corroborated and fixed at the root the blessing of him that dwells in the Bush thus admirably still preserving and protecting it from constantly contrived and intended ruine and destruction Upon the serious sight and pious pondering whereof O what great cause have wee with holy David to break forth into a holy and hearty extasie of joy and admiration as wanting words to expresse sufficiently the many and mighty mercies of our God and to sing and say How excellent O Lord is thy loving kindenesse how powerfull is thy protection therefore the children of men put their trust under the shadow of thy wings They are abundantly satisfied with the fatnesse of thy house and thou dost make them drink of the rivers of thy pleasure And thou O Lord art hee alone that dost encompasse us still with songs of deliverance But now to proceed and set forward to the farther sight and contemplation of the succeeding wonders in and upon this our thus Burning Bush in this ensuing Moneth of January 1644. ANd first I shall begin heer to remember my Reader that as God had lately before begun to cut off in a Judiciary way one most pestilent plotter and dangerous Malignant Incendâ—ary who had not Gods
gracious providence prevented intended to have sorely and mischeivously increast the fâ—ames and utterly to have burnt down this onely-God-protected Parliament Bush I mean Sir Alexander Carew who was executed on Tower-Hill in the preceding moneth of December for his intended treasonable plot against Plymouth So now also on the second of this instant January being Thursday Sir John Hotham though much means was used to save his life yet such was the admirable and commendable integrity and inflexible impartiality of the House of Commons in Parliament to doe justice where sentence was once past that even hee was that foresaid day brought by the then Leivtenant of the Towre Alderman Pennington to the place of execution where hee justly suffered deserved death for his most trecherous intentions and endevours against the Parliament to have betrayed Hull into the hands of the Enemy Where also his Son Captain Hotham another complotter with his foresaid Father in the same design was also beheaded as a just reward to such pernicious Parracides and conspiring Catilines who thus would have rejoyced in the ruthlesse ripping up of the bowels of their dearest Mother their native Country And heer also I may most fitly hint and suggest to the Reader another remarkable passage of like divine providence to the effect aforesaid namely that on the 4 of this instant it pleased our most wise God to put it into the hearts of our most noble Peeres in Parliament that they should not only most sweetly concurre with the Honourable House of Commons in the amendments of the Directory for Gods pure Worship and passe the same and therewith to subjoyn an Ordinance of Parliament for utterly taking away and quite abolishing of the Book of Common-Prayers But that also the said most noble and pious Peeres unwilling to part the Refiner from his Mettle I mean the Arch-Prelate of Canterbury from his purged Common-Prayer-Book that therefore I say the Lords in Parliament should presently send 2 of the reverend Judges to the House of Commons with the message of their concurrence and resolution to proceed now effectually to the sentencing and condemnation of the Arch-Prelate of Canterbury one of the prime and Metropolitane heads and complotters against Church and State which indeed after this was followed to the full untill they had brought that base and bloody Bishop yea that most abominable and unparallelled hypocrite to his just execution in the cutting off of his most traiterous head also at the Towre-Hill whereof more anon in its more proper place But heer by the way I shall desire the Reader religiously to take notice of one remarkable note and observation heerin namely of the day on which it pleased the most wise providence of our God to order and appoint this seasonable concurrence of Both the Houses of Parliament together for confirmation of those 2 great works of Piety and Justice viz. That it was just on the 4 of January That very day 3 yeares on which unhappy King Charles came in person into the Parliament with a multitude of armed Ruffians to effect such a bloody and desperate design as had it taken effect had made as bloody a peice of work as ever this Kingdom beheld and as had thereby established that pestilent Prelate with his Common-Prayer-Book and therewith especially the Popish faction only masked under those poore Vizards to a long and lustfull tyrannizing over the bodies and soules too of Gods dear Servants the Lord knows how long and lewdly And now say â—ood Reader dost thou not already see in this remarkable passage 〈◊〉 providence a most beautifull and bountifull blessing of him that dwelt in the Bush upon this his Vnconsumed Burning Bush the Parliament But to proceed About the 6 of this instant January wee were certainly informed that the Garrison of Winchester being much straitned of provisions by the Parliaments forces quartered neer them the Enemy there went out to drain the Country of Cattle and to plunder the people and had got much plunder and Cattle from them but before they could get into Winchester with their prey Colonell Morleyes Troop met with them gave them a martiall salute routed them and rescued all the Cattle and plunder which they had got and took divers of the Enemies prisoners Wee had also intelligence from Ailsbury about the same time that they in that brave Garrison having notice of a party of the Kings Horse that were in the Country taking up plunder they made out to finde them and at last discovering them fell valiantly upon the Enemy surprized 30 or 40 of them stript them of their plunder and brought the prisoners to Ailsbury And that shortly after this Colonell Martin the valiant and vigilant Governour of Ailsbury went forth and happily lit upon a whole Troop of Horse which was said to bee the Princes and singular good Horse they were indeed and well armed All which I say hee totally surprized and brought safely into Ailsbury Also that courageous Colonell Holborn had had some brave skirmishes in the Western parts with Gorings Horse and notwithstanding that the addition of strength came not unto him as was promised and which hee expected yet hee most valiantly attempted to fall upon the Enemy in their quarters bravely beat them and took divers of the Enemies prisoners and about 200 Horse and had not a crosse accident falne out and prevented him hee had certainly taken the Town of Bridgewater And about the 8 of this instant January wee had unquestionable information and assurance of a brave prize of Bristol ships taken at Sea by Captain Coachman a valiant and faithfull Sea-Captain testified in renowned Captain Swanleys Letter to the Earle of Warwick as a post-script of the said Letter wherein especially Captain Swanley certifies the foresaid renowned Earl of Warwick of a brave Victory obtained by Major Generall Laughorn viz. his taking of the Town and Castle of Cardigan in Wales with above an 100 Commanders and common Souldiers in it and all the armes and ammunition therein and of the surprizing of â—ivers eminent persons the Kings Irish-Commissioners together with the Kings broad-Seal to treat with the barbarous and bloody Rebells of Ireland King Charles his best Popish Subjects about concluding a peace with them of all which for the Readers better satisfaction I have heer inserted the foresaid Letter it self under Captain Swanleyes own hand The Copy of a Letter sent to the Right Honourable the Earl of Warwick from Captain Richard Swanley Right Honourable SInce my last of the 20 of November by Captain Green in the Dogger Beat Major Generall Laughorn keeping the field with such Forces as the indigency of the County gave a possibility of subsistence pretending for Carmarthen and lying still working by double policy to draw the hearts of the Inhabitants of Cardiganshire to the State and the force of Carmarthen with their adherents into the said Town for their dâ—fence and the indempnity of their
Brayton in Barkeshire on the other side of the Town about 2 miles off The Enemy was there commanded by Major Hatton Farmer Major of the Princes Regiment our Horse carryed themselves very courageously beat the Enemy out of their quarter and pursued them within a mile of Farrington and killed the Major with divers others and mortally wounded the Captain Leivtenant of the Princes Regiment took many of the men and horse among whom were 5 Irish men whom wee hanged the same day in the Market-place and not above 12 of these horse got into Farringdon the rest were all slain or taken without the losse of any one of our men or horse Their intent was as wee were informed by prisoners and a Trumpeter who that evening came from Oxford to desire the Majors body that the horse should give us an allarm on the one side whiles the foot stormed us on the other And another that then came from Oxford gave our Major Generall information and both of them affirmed that wee slew in this fight Sir Henry Gage Governour of Oxford and many other Gentlemen of great quality and in particular that Leivtenant Colonell Lower Deputy Governour of Wallingford was also slain I am confident the Enemy had a great advantage of us by the bridge and hills yet the Lord fought for us and hath graciously delivered us out of their hands for which wee desire Thanks may bee generally given to the Lord of Hoasts and God of Battles and in particular for preserving us also in our safe passage to Abbington the Enemy being upon their march so neer us and had they taken us it would have occasioned great triumph in the Enemy there being of us 4 Colonells besides other Captains and Commanders Our Major Generall Dr. Wilson and Quarter Master Generall Burrowes remember their loves to you and would have given you a touch heerof but that I undertook to save them that labour I pray you acquaint our Friends heerwith as having exprest nothing but what I know to bee truth One of the Messengers from Oxford informed us that Prince Rupert engaged himself to the King and Lords with many vowes and protestations yea and execrations too That hee would dine the next Sunday in Abbington and that hee would bee Master of it by 12 a clock that morning forgetting that of Aâ—ab to Benhadad Let not him that girdeth on his harnesse boast himself as hee that putteth it off But missing his hopes and the Governour of Oxford being also slain hee was ashamed to march triumphantly into Oxford with the forces that returned but came sneaking in privately another way where the Lords mocking him askt him where was Abbington which hee boasted hee would so suddainly have But wee I say gave them such a breakfast as that it was beleeved hee would have little stomach thereafter to come and visit our noble Major Generall Wee could not for want of horse pursue the victory Colonell Fynes having left us and I think God would not vouchsafe to do him so much honour as to bee present at so noble an exploit For the number of ours slain I have already given you an account The number of the slain of the Enemy was not certainly known when I wrote this the Country reported 3 or 4 Cart-loads of dead and wounded corps to bee taken with them besides many that were drowned and others that were thrown in after they were slain and some found dead upon the place Sam. Harsnet Abbington this 12. of Jan. 1644. And heer also I shall desire the Reader to take notice that this brave Victory was thus happily obtained the very next day after that judgement was given upon that egregious and abominable hypocrite and atheist and most pestilent Incendiary the Arch Prelate of Canterbury And that on the very same day also wee had the certain information of those brave Victories and rich prizes forementioned by renowned Captain Swanley specified in his Letter to the noble Earl of Warwick as aforesaid About the 16 instant wee were certainly informed by Letters out of the West especially by an Expresse from the Lord Roberts Governour of Plymouth to the Speaker of the House of Commons that that most impious and impudent rotten-hearted Apostate Skellum Greenvill having gathered all the forces hee could raise in Cornwall and other parts of the West did about the 10 of January 1644. about eleven of the clock at night alarm the works of the Town of Plymouth in 4 severall places at once with neer 6000 men whereby after a very hot dispute the Enemy became Masters of the 4 great works of the Town out of two of which they were quickly beaten but held the third called Little Penny-quick and began to scale or rather digge down another fort called Great Penny-quick But at last by the admirable courage of the Commanders and Garrison-Souldiers they were quite beaten out of that too with great losse unto the Enemy leaving 75 of their men dead on the place and at last 4 times as many more slain in this Service besides many hundreds wounded For as soon as they were beaten off from the 3 works the Plymouth men who behaved themselves with extraordinary gallantry invironed the fourth work whereinto our men had got partly by digging and undermining and partly by scaling and the Enemy within it who seeing themselves so suddainly beset and ensnared as it were in their so late and so sure seeming gotten prize instantly surrendered it upon quarter for their lives In this brave bickering there were also many prisoners taken and much armes the victory was very great and the Enemy by it much discouraged Let our God alone therefore have the greater praise and glory for it About the 18 instant wee received certain information again by Letters out of the West of valiant Colonell Holborns taking in of Sydenbam-House in which hee had neer an 100 prisoners among whom was one Captain one Leivtenant and other Officers in armes together with some other persons of quality And hee surprized also the High-Sheriffe of Somersetshire and ten Commissioners of Array with him And also that hee shortly after took 300 prisoners with many Horse and Armes as they were forraging abroad in those parts for plunder and spoyl And about the 21 instant the House of Commons in Parliament had a debate concerning the New Modell for the setling of the Armies And proceeded to the nomination of divers Officers for the new Army by which means tho for the time the Self-denying Ordinance seemed at this time to bee laid aside they might recall any of the Members of either House to the publike Service at home as well as if the said Ordinance had then been past Upon the conclusion of the debate it was now therefore Ordered and Voted that Sir Thomas Fairfax should bee Commander in cheif of the 21000 Horse and Foot to bee now raised according to the New Modell and
Major Generall Skippon to bee Major Generall of the whole Army and then they proceeded to nominate the Colonells of each Regiment for the said Modell which were 21 in all whereof Colonell Holborn and Colonell Rossiter were 2 in the first place And the House then took into consideration the completing of an Ordinance for the raising of Monies to maintain the said Army which shortly after was perfectly completed in all particulars whereof more in their more proper places About January the 24 wee had most certain intelligence by Letters out of Cheshire which were read in Parliament in the House of Commons of a very great overthrow given to the Enemies forces neer Chester by ever to bee renowned Sir William Breretons forces the manner whereof was in breif thus related That the Enemy drew forth all the strength of Horse and Foot that they could get together in and about Chester and marched thence with an intention to releive Beeston castle then strongly besieged by Sir William Brereton whereof Leivtenant Colonell Jones and Sergeant Major Brookes having intelligence they fell upon them in their passage and so undauntedly dealt with them that in a short time they had totally routed the whole body of the Enemies Army both Horse and Foot slew 50 of them in the place and neer 200 wounded They took prisoners 2 Colonells one Leivtenant Colonell 2 Sergeant Majors 6 Captains 10 Leivtenants 4 Ensignes 3 Sergeants and one Corporall They took also 200 horse and 200 men prisoners with 400 Armes and much Ammunition whereby as it may bee easiled judged Chester Garrison was much weakned and disabled to hold out long the then present siege And about the 26 instant wee received also certain knowledge of a notable and brave peice of Service performed by Major Generall Craford then Governour of Ailsbury who going with but about 90 horse to seek quarter for his Souldiers and finding none one way hee wheeled about toward Thame and unexpectedly fell upon a 120 horse of the Enemies among whom was Colonell Bleyer Governour of Walling ford Castle who when they saw each other both these Champions did not take the advantage of each other but in a fair and open field drew into battalia and sent out their forlorn hopes of each side who presently charged one another and so both bodies met and both these Commanders bravely disputed the businesse a while in a fiery and steely language and with much interchangeable courage on both sides But at last our party most undauntedly routed the Enemy Colonell Craford having himself very sorely wounded Colonell Bleyer in this fight but his horse not being maimed his heeles did his Master more service than his own hands could and carryed him fiercely away half dead out of the field all the rest both horse and men being either taken or kild save only about 13 or 14 who escaped with the wounded Governour 20 were so sorely wounded that they could not bee brought prisoners into Ailsbury and not being capable of doing any further hurt they left them behinde to creep if they could to their own Chirurgeons and seek their own cure The 2 Governours as wee were credibly informed meeting together in person in this brave encounter assaulted each other in a single combate and for a while bravely on both sides maintained the duell till Bleyer received a most dangerous wound and as I said before by his horses swiftnesse escaped away Wee lost but 3 men of ours in this furious fight and so ours most victoriously returned to Ailsbury with their prisoners About the 28 of this instant the Committee of the County of Kent that brave unanimous County most happy by the noblenesse of an enobled Gentry presented a petition to the House of Commons wherein they expressed great thankfulnesse unto them for their indefatigable and constant care and paines for the good of the publike Affaires of the Kingdom unto which also they declared their singular good affection and faithfulnesse And humbly also prayed that the House would proceed in fully passing the Self-denying Ordinance for the disabling of the Members of either House to bear any Office in the Common-wealth during the time of these Warres which Ordinance though it had about this time clearly passed in the House of Commons yet received some long stop and contradiction in the House of Peeres which Petition of those Kentish Gentlemen was received with great acceptance and thanks returned to the Petitioners with promise of their best endevours to hasten it Some other particulars were also inserted in their Petition concerning some particular distempers and greivances in that County which were referred to a Committee and in speciall concerning the unnaturall Conspirators for the betraying of Dover Castle and Chattam in Kent who were then kept in durance to bee in due time called to a severe account for that most vile and trecherous design which was afterward effected with the death of divers of the cheif ring-leaders therein Finally about the 30 of this instant January wee received certain intelligence out of Warwickeshire of the singular good successe of Major Purefoy at Compton House against the Enemy as by his own Letter will more fully appear which for the Readers better content and satisfaction I have thought fit heer to insert The Copy of Serjeant Major Purefoyes Letter the brave Governour of Compton House in Warwickshire to his Colonell Colonell Purefoy SIR I Shall heer breifly relate for all passages would bee too tedious to trouble you withall how that first I desire with all my Soul that God may have all the praise and glory which is due to a God that hath now and ever shewed himself unto mee almost by miracles in delivering mee and all under my Command from very many and most eminent dangers This night about 2 of the clock a 1000 or 1200 horse and foot of the Enemies fell upon mee at Compton stormed my Outworks gained the Stables and cut down my great Drawbridge possest themselves of all my Troop of Horses and took about 30 of my foot Souldiers in their beds who lay over the Stables and all this was done almost before a man could think what to doe Wee received this fierce alarm as wee had good cause and presently made good the new Skonce before the Stonebridge and beat them out of the great Court there being about 200 entred and ready to storm the Skonce but by Gods mercy wee gave them so hot a sally that wee forced them to retreat back to the Stables Barnes and Brew-house where from the windowes they played very hot upon us I then commanded Leivtenant Purefoy and my Quarter-master having no other Officers of quality at home the rest being abroad with about 30 of my best Troopers to sally out upon the Enemy with a party of some 40. and to attempt the regaining of the Brew-house and the roomes above which instantly they did with most gallant resolution and courage Sergeant
specious pretences having pre-occupated the hearts and beleif of the people that they could not easily bee undeceived at the second hand But see now the admirable wisdome and justice of our God against them and his great mercy toward us who so ordered the issue and the upshot of that Treaty that by the refusall of 3 Articles mainly and primarily to bee insisted on and by the Kings Commissioners to bee condescended unto to the Parliaments Commissioners namely 1. The Settlement of the true Reformed Religion 2. The Establishment of the Militia for a season in the power of the Parliament 3. The prosecution of the Warre against the Rebels of Ireland and disclaiming that accursed Cessation of Armes with them that by their most unjust refusall I say of these 3 Articles whereof not one would bee fairly granted and especially by those Oxford Commissioners so irreligious and even Atheisticall justifying and that in the Kings name that most horrid and hideous Rebellion in Ireland sealed with the most inhumane massacre and bloody slaughter and murthering of almost 200000 innocent English Protestants the Kings said Commissioners most irreligiously and audaciously daring openly to professe that his Majesty their Master could not in point of Honour Justice and Conscience yeeld to the Parliaments desire therein whereby I say even this unreasonable and irreligious refusall of the Parliaments most just and righteous demands notwithstanding the foresaid Declaration framed and forged on the impious anvill of Don Digbies vicious invention at Oxford whereby they thought to have gained much credit reputation and advantage to their party yet I say by this refusall they became great losers in the affections of the people over the whole Kingdom who also saw that in the space of full 20 dayes sitting they would not as I toucht before agree to any one Proposition of the Parliaments which so grosse miscarriage of things especially in that abominable justification of the Irish Rebellion must needs lye upon them as a most odiously black indelible stain of intolerable ignominy and disgrace to all succeeding pâ—sterity And indeed to speak the truth plainly what good could bee expected from a Treaty which was to bee held with a seduced and misled King a degenerated and ignoble Nobility a proud and superstitious Clergie an ambitious and atheisticall Gentry and an irreligious and most malignant Common people But now to proceed About the 8 of this instant February there came Letters to the Committee of both Kingdomes of an excellent peice of service performed by Major Bridges Governour of Warwick Castle the particulars whereof for the Readers better satisfaction I will set downe in the words of the Majors own Letter which was as followeth Sir I doubt not but you will bee glad to hear of the good successe which God hath given unto mee in delivering into my hands a Garrison of the Enemies called Stoke House in Glocestershire but borders on Warwickeshire where together with the House I also took a Troop of Horse And it will bee the more remarkable in respect of the goodnesse of God when wee consider the small power I had to doe it and the place it stood in being between 2 of the Enemies Garrisons the one was Cambden but 2 miles distant the other Evisham 7 miles distant But I being affected with the sad complaints of the Country and considering the danger of delayes and having notice that the Enemy wrought hard to perfect the Fortifications resolved to take the present opportunity and that my design might bee carryed on with the more privacy wherein much of my safety consisted the Regiment of our County being absent or not in readinesse I sent 2 of the 3 Companies of mine own Garrison by small parties into the Country as to gather Contribution but commanded the Officers not to return till I gave them orders to these 2 Companies I got an addition of 60 Foot commanded by one of my Captains of the Town-Company with some part of mine own Troop and about 70 Horse belonging to the Committee of Worcestershire and thus I marched all that night and being come to the House I began to storm it and the next day fell upon the House and stables by break of day both at once The House was of stone very strong they within it had made up the windowes and doores with brick and stone and defended the House very stoutly for about an houre and a half but at length wee entred by force and took the House and all therein without the losse of one man blessed bee the Lord notwithstanding that in all that time wee were without shelter and the bullets and stones flew thick about our eares Since this I heard that the Enemy drew out of Evisham and Cambden to releive their Friends but could not come up time enough by which means God so appointing I returned with my prisoners and spoile unmolested a List wherof you have herewith immediately following And to conclude the said House being a Papists and the whole Garrison of that Religion to prevent the building of any more such Rookes nests I fired the House and desire you would with us praise God for this Victory Sir Your Servant John Bridges Warwick Castle Feb. 8. 1644. A List of the Prisoners taken by Major Bridges Governour of Warwick Castle at Stoke House in Gloucestershire Captain Edward Brent Captain George Brent Captain Richard Canning Captain Smith Captain Thomas Canning together with about 30 more Officers and Gentlemen of quality all Papists and many other common Souldiers About the 10 of this instant wee were also credibly informed by Letters out of Cheshire that Captain Stones a brave active and loyall Commander under Sir William Brereton and now Governour of Eccleshall Castle in the County of Stafford with a small party marched against Partshall House another Popish Garison of the Enemies which was strongly fortified and Moated about Hee taking the opportunity of the Draw-bridge being let down suddenly forced his passage surprized the Centinells and so fell in among the whole Garrison fought bravely with them for a good season killed many of them in the fight and took prisoners Colonell Ashbey the Governour with divers Gentlemen of quality a Jesuite which was their Priest and Son and Heire to a Popish Knight and about 60 Souldiers and thus wee were possessed of the whole House with all the Armes and Ammunition and other good prize which was within it Wee also were credibly assured by Letters from Abbington about the 14 of this instant February that Major Generall Brown that most renowned valiant and active Commander sent forth a party of Horse toward Harrington who having intelligence where the Enemy kept a Court of Guard about half a mile from Harrington our said Forces got between them and the Town by which means they surprized the whole Guard being 19 men and brought them all prisoners into Abbington And that the said Noble Major Generall
Worcestershire which Letter comming to my hands I have heer for the Readers better content and satisfaction inserted which was as followeth SIR I Sent you by an expresse which was carryed into Banbury the relation of a great Victory which God in mercy gave unto us against Prince Maurice his Horse And of my apprehension of a very happy opportunity for the reducing of that County to the obedience of the Parliament were some wants of ours supplyed All the Enemies horse in Worcestershire particularly Prince Maurice his Regiment Sir John Knotsfords Regiment with the County Troop commanded by Captain Wilde the Reformado Troop commanded by Captain Pitchard and the Hartlebury Troop commanded by Captain Gunter being all between 5 or 600 Horse drew up and faced Warwick upon a hill about a mile distant from the Town Warwickeshire horse being a day before drawn away towards Gloucester the remaining forces heer belonging to Warwick as also those of our Horses remaining in Warwick were immediately commanded forth Viz. 20 horse that appertained to Colonell Bridges 2 Captains of our Committee viz. Captain Milward with his Troop and Captain Halford with so many Horse as could immediately bee got ready Also 2 Troopes consisting of about 80 Horse which came before from Newport Pagnell marching towards Gloucester So that in all wee drew out a party of about 150 Horse which Major Hawksworth commanded and 200 Foot commanded by Major Bridges It pleased God that after some houres skirmishing with them ours twice charging them through and through with admirable courage the Enemy giving ground and retreating till they came to a Lane and place of advantage that our Horse charged them again Captain Pitchard was shot and taken prisoner by our Captain Halford who expressed much courage and singled out Major Pilkinton and after they had each of them discharged their Pistâ—ls fell to it with their swords Captain Halford struck off his head-peice and perriwigge with the first blow and with the next gave him a wound on his head Captain Halford seeing Major Hawksworth dangerously engaged amongst the Enemies Horse made up to his releif with his Cornet Parsons and releived him only his Cornet was shot through his neck but the wound not mortall The issue of all was this the whole body of the Enemy utterly routed about 60 prisoners taken amongst which the great Philistine Pitchard Captain of the Reformadoes being shot in foure places was taken prisoner Also Captain George Action Captain Souch Cartwright Son to Sir Philip Cartwright late Governoâ—r of Jersey with other Officers and Gentlemen of quality Amongst others that were slain besides Major Pilkinton who commanded in cheif one of the Barâ—sleyes a Gentleman of a good family in our County and divers others not yet known Wee brought off at least 140 Horse taken from the Enemy and the whole body of them scattered all to peices by 8 miles 〈◊〉 This great body of the Enemy being all their Horse appertaining to them in our County was thus broken by the gallantry of our men In this action I give not any eminent or particular mark of bravery on any one all doing so exceeding well But the valour of Major Hawksworth was so much taken notice of by the Enemy that they termed him The Devill in Buffe Were wee able to follow the blow and so keep down their now dejected spirits Our friends here of whom you have heard much would doubtlesse bee more bold and appear in our behalf and of how great consequence that may bee I forbeare to expresse Guy Mouldsworth Leivtenant Colonell to the Princes own Regiment was taken and engaged his honour to bee a true prisoner Wee understand by the Trumpeter this day that hee intends to come and resigne up himself to us This Captain Pitchard is a pernicious villain who the day before hee was taken pulled down the house of one Mr. Hunt a Member of our Committee I pray you bee a petitioner to the Parliament that hee may not bee exchanged without us hee being our prisoner as also that wee may bee permitted to secure our prisoners in Warwick castle which hitherto hath not been granted us which besides the hazzard hath occasioned great expence wee being necessitated to hire Keepers to look to them I have omitted one thing which is the wonder of the mercy that in all this service which lasted many houres wee lost not one man only our Cornet Parsons wounded The enemy had plundered the Country of 200 beasts and had robbed some Carriers of their Cloath all which wee rescued and restored Wee have had 2 Trumpeters from Worcester to know what prisoners wee have their Letters ask not after any particulars but wee know they misse many There are hitherto of all the Enemies Horse not above 50 returned to Worcester which dropt in by two or three at a time and being rid so exceeding hard it is beleived are made unserviceable Your affectionate Servant N. L. About the 22 of this instant Aprill wee received certain intelligence by Letters from about Oxford both from renowned Leivtenant Generall Cromwell from valiant and active Major Generall Brown and others of credit and repute in their Armies of divers memorable victories and brave defeats given to the Enemy at the then siege of Oxford by ever to bee honoured Sir Thomas Fairfax Generall of the Parliaments Armies over the whole Kingdom and now thus farre advanced into the field and set down before Oxford which victories being all exactly set forth in their Letters to the Parliament and to severall friends in London I shall heer for the Readers better content and satisfaction set down the most materiall things extracted and faithfully collected out of their severall Letters which were as followeth Upon the 23 of this instant Aprill there were quartered between 2 and 3000 horse about Oxford to stop the Kings Artillery and Carriages from passing out which were ready in Oxford with a Convoy to march as intelligence was given toward Rupert And Leivtenant Generall Cromwell having intelligence that they intended to passe through Shotover-Wood hee drew toward Woodstock and so thereabout toward Islip to bee ready to attend their motion in case they came that way At last hee had intelligence that about 100 horse and foot were marching toward him wherupon some of our men shewed themselves in a small party which drew the Enemy neer and Command was given by Leivtenant Generall Cromwell that all our Forces should bee in a readinesse and upon their watch all the night for fear of the Enemy which was carefully done the Leivtenant Generall himself being in his own person to encourage them all the while with them for there came intelligence that the Enemy intended to watch an opportunity to take our Forces at an advantage and so to set suddenly upon them of which our security they much presumed but found our men too vigilant for them For ere ours were looked for by the Enemy Leivtenant Generall
brought in for the setling 1000 pound per annuâ—â— on Colonell Massie during his life And likewise Ordered that hee should have 200 pound bestowed upon him for his extraordinary valour and gallantry in this fight and because these monies might bee speedily issued to him it was Ordered that the Committee for the Kings Revenue should make payment forthwith of this summe And a Letter of thanks was ordered likewise to bee sent to Colonell Massie desiring him to goe on in such honourable designes and that hee should never want the encouragement of the Houses of Parliament About the 8 of this instant May wee also received certain intelligence by Letters out of Warwickeshire of the good successe of the Parliaments forces in those parts under the Command of valiant Major Purefoy testified also by his own Letter to the Committee of Parliament at Coventry and by them to London the substance of which Letter was as followeth Noble Gentlemen I Cannot but give you notice of some skirmishes lately performed by my Troop As first that my said Troop scouting abroad to discover the Enemies actions wee encountred a party of them skirmished with them and in the fight took Colonell Francis Wortley Son and hâ—ire to Sir Francis Wortley that prime and pernicious Royalist Since that I marched out again with my Troop and faced Banbury within twice Musket shot for above an houres space and drew out a forlorn hope and sent then into Nelthrop where they met with a party of the Enemies foot pursued them to the very Turn-pike killed one of them and brought off 6 prisoners without any losse to our selves Immediately after I sent out a party of 30 good Horse who bravely fell into the Reare of the Kings Army within a mile of Stow and after a stout assault upon them ours took prisoners Prince Ruperts Gun-Smith 4 Reformadoes of his Life-guard Prince Mourice his Chirurgeon his cheif Cook his Farrier with some other common Troopers 12 good horses 7 case of pistolâ— 12 swords and all this taken without any losse at all on our part praised bee the Lord for it and and 100 peices of gold was taken â—one of their pockets Since this also I sent out another party to â—udgell them up in their Rear and my said party marched straight to Cambden and found the Garrison set on fire but the party entred the Town and found 200 foot in the streets and about an 100 horse in the stables there which unexpected sight increased my mens courage and resolution and they seeing themselves ingaged charged quite through them all and through the whole Town where they discovering the Kings forces within half a â—â—ile of the Town at their rendevour charged therefore through â—hem again killed 14 upon the ground besides many more wounded put them all to run and quit the Town and my men came off without any losse and brought 3 good horses with them And about the 12 of this instant wee received certain â—ntelligence by Letters out of the West of the long expected and much longed for assurance of the releif of the distressed and much straitned Town of Taunton by Colonell Welden and Colonell Graves and their valiant forces designed by renowned Sir Thomas Fairfax for that purpose In which Town there were very many precious soules and most faithfull Servants of the Lord who were all with admirable Christian courage resolved â—â—gether with their brave and most undaunted Governour Colonell Blake to hold out to the uttermost of their dearest hearts blood rather than to trust to the present perfidious Articles and thereby the future intollerable tyranny and basenesse of a most disloyall bloody and barbarous Enemy The manner of the releif whereof being succinctly certified by valiant Colonell Weldens own Letter to Sir Thomas Fairfax I have heer thought fit for my Readers better content and satisfaction to insert onely heer and there I have made bold to interlace a word or two very materiall and pertinent to the present businesse which was as followeth To the Right honourable Sir Thomas Fairfax Commander in cheif of the Army raised for the defence of the King and Parliament Right Honourable ACcording to your Command I shall now give an account of the good successe wherewith God hath graciously blessed this party hitherto After a long and weary march wherein wee lost no time and wherein was such wise and Christian-like Discipline exercised all along as was admired by the Country people Proclamation having been made That it should bee death for any man to plunder any thing from any person wee thus at length came upon the Lords day May 11 before Taunton and at our neer approach to it wee shot off 3 or 4 peices of Ordnance to give notice to the Town that wee were come to their releif at the hearing and hope whereof valiant and vigilant Colonell Blake from a high place by a prospective-glasse discovered our Brigade and thereby greatly encouraged his Souldiers and the honest Townesmen who had had fierce assaults the Friday and Saturday before And Hopton had sent a sharp Summons to the Town Threatning them if they would not surrender it hee would take it by force and put them all to the sword except 7 persons onely that were in the Town To which the Governour stoutly returned a negative answer as brave as Hoptons was cruell saying Hee would not deliver the Town but would keep it to the last man As for those 7 mâ—n whom hee promised to spare hee desired that Hopton would send their names and hee would send him their bodies presently But to come more fully to the work it self Being now before the Town I sent out 10 of my men who fell upon an 100 of theirs and killed and took some of them who could not beleive or bee perswaded but that wee were the Lord Gorings forces and wee were within 4 miles of the Town before they would beleive wee were come against them and then about 4 of the clock in the afternoon they being fully convinced who wee were they raised the siege and confusedly ran away by night in great disorder some toward Bridgewater and some toward Exeter blocking up the way with trees and other combersome matter whereby our forces could not pursue them And truely Gods goodnesse and speciall providence appeared mighâ—â—ly to this poore Town at this time in that wee should come to their releif in the very nick of time only and pinch of their utmost straights comming on them all their Ammunition being now quite spent very much of the Town being burnt even at least 200 houses by the rage of the Enemy and yet the Town extraordinarily defended all this while witly impregnable courage yea notwithstanding that the Enemy many times entred by storme at breaches they had made but were still most magnanimously beaten out again with the losse of at least a 1000 slain before the Town in this siege and about
to him and they then also took order for monies to pay his well-deserving Souldiers as had been desired And they having formerly bestowed 200 pound per annum upon Owen Occonelly for his good Service in discovering the plot in Ireland who not receiving the same according to the said Order the House of Commons therefore Ordered the due and constant payment of the said 200 pound per annum out of the old customs of the Kingdom Thus Honos alit artes virtus compensata crescit And about the 23 instant wee had Letters out of Staffordshire which certified that when the Kings forces advanced for the releif of Chester then most hopefully besieged by ever to bee honoured Sir William Brereton by Stafford and Shropshire Captain Stone the valiant and active Governour of Stafford for the Parliament gave the Enemy severall successefull visits in their Rear at they past along and did good execution upon them therein And first how hee sent out a party of his Horse who fell upon a party of the Enemies quartered at Wâ—lverhampton killed 16 on the place took 26 Horse and most of their Riders and returned without any losse the Kings own quarters being then not above 2 miles off it That presently after this hee sent out another party even the next day who fell upon the Enemy quartered in the field neer Newport in Shrâ—pshire brought away 60 horse killed a Captain and about 20 others in the place And the next day following this that hee sent out another paity that fell upon their quarters at Pancridge killed 3. took 4 prisoners and 7 horses About the 28 of this instant May being that Moneths day of a publike Fast or humiliation and Reverend Mr. Henderson one of the Scottish Commissioners and reverend Mr. Whitaker Preaching before the House of Peers that day in the Abbey at Westminster and before the House of Commons Reverend Mr. Caryll and Mr. Ford as wee were that day labouring in prayers and other acts of humiliation to draw neer to our God wee found the Lord in mercy drawing neer to us for the Fast day being ended there came Letters from renowned Colonell Massie which gave us the happy intelligence of the taking of the strong Garrison of Evesham the manner wherof was breifly thus Colonell Massie with about 800 horse and 600 foot having lyen before Evesham a day or 2 stormed the Town and took it in an houres storming In which service wee received lesse losse than could have been expected in such a hot peice of service as for the time it proved not above 4 or 5 of our Souldiers slain and 2 Officers besides and about 30 common Souldiers wounded Wee slue of the Enemies 10 or 11. took divers Officers and common Souldiers to the number of about 548. and neer upon an 120 good horses a List of the prime prisoners was as followeth Colonell Robert Legge Governour of the Town Colonell Foster Leivtenant Colonell Bellingham Major Travillian 13 Captaines 16 Leivtenants 3 Reformadoes 20 inferiour Officers together with 20 barrels of Gun-powder 700 fire-armes and 2 Tuns of Match The taking of this brave Garrison was a very considerable peice of service in many respects and this not the least namely that by this means almost all Worcestershire will bee freed and mightily secured from Cavalierian Contributions which before were frequently gathered for the King And about the 30 of this instant wee were credibly informed by Letters out of Hampshire that a party of horse and foot belonging to Colonell Norton marched forth upon a design on Lanâ—ford-House The horse were commanded by Captain Betsworth Captain Smibark and Captain Gerson The foot were under the command of young Murford with part of these forces they placed an ambuscado neer the foresaid House undiscovered to the Enemy and Colonell Griffith seeing some of our forces facing the House sallyed forth to encounter them whereupon ours retreated to their ambuscado the Enemy hotly pursued them but were now as fiercely as unexpectedly assaulted and charged by ours on every side who took them all prisoners finding no way to escape There were surprized Colonell Griffith the Governour of Langford House his Captain Leivtenant a Cornet 8 other Officers 64 prisoners besides of common Souldiers and all their Armes and 10 of them slain upon the place And heer good Reader let mee again desire thee to make another very short stay for a most just and deserved gratefull Comtemplation on all the fair and famous mercies of this Moneth also and therein to see and admire the continued Miraculous wonder of our Parliamentary Burning-Bush still Vnconsumed notwithstanding the many singeing yea scorching assaults and hot attempts constantly and continually flashing against it both In the great danger and admirable deliverance of that ever to bee honoured Commander Colonell Massie from Prince Ruperts plot or design to have suddenly surprized him In the famous defeat given to the Enemy by Major Purefâ—yes forces in Warwickâ—shire In the as singularly seasonable as comfortable releif of the good Town of Taunton and the setting at liberty of so many precious Soules as that long siege had curbed and coopt in from necessary comforts And the excellent Orders set out by the Parliament for the well-regulating of Sir Thomas Fairfaxes New-Modelled Army In the happy harmony of our prime Commanders in the Army And the Parliaments most noble and renowned gratitude to those that have well deserved of the Kingdom by their industrious and loyall services In the brave services of Captain Stone Governour of Stafford against the enemy And the happy taking of Eveshams strong Garrison by renowned Colonell Massie and therein a most notable and evident return of Prayer And lastly In that brave defeat given to our Cavalierian adversaries by valiant and loyall Colonell Norton All which premises of this Moneth of May prudently piously and gratefully considered O say good Reader whether wee have not most just cause continually to praise our ever-living and all-good-giving God and with the holy Prophet to break forth into Soul-exulting and God-exalting raptures of joy and gratitude and to confesse and say O Lord thou art our God and wee will exalt thee and will everlastingly praise thy name for thou haste done wonderfull things for us and thy counsels of old and of later times too are nothing but faithfulnesse and truth unto us But now to proceed ANd heer now wee will begin the farther contemplation and just admiration of the rich and rare mercies I had almost said miracles of this Moneth of June also with the cordiall and comfortable mention of a most excellent Petition exhibited about the beginning of this Moneth on the 4 or 6 day thereof to the House of Commons in Parliament by the right Honourable Lord Major of London together with the Aldermen and Common-Councill of the said most famous and ever to bee renowned City touching their deep apprehension of divers disastrous sad
us to Harborough but durst not stay there Wee took all the Foot Colours in the field the Kings own Colours with the Lion and Crown with this Motto Dieu et Mon Droit The Queens Colours and the Princes Colours and the Duke of Yorkes Standard Wee got the plunder of the Kings Coach and his precious Cabinet that famous tell-tale of the Kings and Queens works of darknesse c. But of all these things more particularly by and by One great encouragement to our Common Souldiers to fall on the more courageously was the rich plunder the Enemy had their purses and pockets too being full of money and the plunder of poore Leicestershire which God now made a means of their ruine and destruction in this fight for indeed our Souldiers got very great plenty of gold and silver out of most of their pockets that were slain Prince Rupert also or rather Prince Robber had brought into the field many Irish women inhumane Whores with Skeans or long Irish knivâ—â— about them to cut the throats of our wounded men and of such prisoners as they pleased the wives of the bloody Rebels in Ireland his Majesties dearly beloved Subjects to whom our Souldiers would grant no quarter about a 100 of them were slain on the ground and most of the rest of the whores and Camp-sluts that attended that wicked Army were marked in their faces or noses with slashes and cuts and some cut off just rewards for such wicked strumpets The slain on our part in this most memorable fight was not in all full 200. and not one above a Captain Sir Jacob Ashleyes Coach was taken with great store of plunder in it and himself was very neer taking for wee got the cap off his head and in Sir Jacobs Coach Letters of Nicholas the Court-lyer wherein was among others this expression in one of them That the Parliament had given particular direction to the Generall to give the King no quarter but to kill him if taken A most abominably false and impudent lye like unto all the rest of their irreligious practises The Army after this marched toward Leicester following the pursuit not willing to give the Enemy any rest or liberty to rally our horse especially being close in their Rear and Colonell Rossiter who came seasonably to the ingagement and bravely charged where our Noble Generall was following apace in the pursulte of the Enemy as aforesaid where now for a while wee will leave them And heer now I shall in its most proper place for the high honour and glory of our wonder-working God and the admiration and astonishment of my present Readers and their succeeding Posterity give you the most exact List of the slain prisoners and prizes taken in this most famous and glorious Victory which was as followeth Slain in the fight and slight about 3000. and between 3 and 400 Whores and Irish Queans One Lord or eminent personage slain and found dead with a Star and a red-Crosse upon his coat 4 Lords mortally wounded Prince Rupert bruised and Sir Jacob Ashley hurt on the head his head-peice beaten off and himself neer taken Prisoners Colonell Sir William Vaughan Colonell Sir William Bridges Col. Sir Bridge Col. Sir Richard Page Colonell Bandes Col. Bunkley Col. Theoph. Gilbie Col. Nevill Leivtenant Colonells 7. Sergeant Majors 12. Captains 55. Leivtenants 55. Ensignes 45. besides of inferiour Officers above 200. 2000 horse with their riders many Ladies and Gentlewomen of the Kings Officers and Servants 11 or 12. besides 4 of his footmen and one of Prince Maurices In all above 4000 prisoners Armes at least 9000. 6 rich Coaches and other Coaches besides The Kings own Coach and therein that Cabinet of Secret Letters of the Kings and Queenes since this fight Printed and published to the amazement of the world Ruperts Coach also and both the Kings and Ruperts Sumpters with much wealth and riches The Kings Standard the Queens Standard Prince Charles his Standard the Duke of Yorkes Standard and Ruperts Standard 6 Colours of Horse and 40 Colours of Foot one whereof represented a pair of hornes with this Motto Come Cuckold Which being one of the first Colours that were taken the word was on the pursuite returned to the Enemy with much mirth and scorn among Souldiers Taken also 12 peices of Ordnance 40 〈…〉 Gunpowder 200 Carriages 12 Carriages of Boats with their Anchors and Cables In summe all their bagge and baggage 〈◊〉 King himself fled toward and so clean through Leicester Thus now in this most famous and renowned Victory did the Lordâ— indeed shew himself as Moses sweetly sets him out Glorious 〈◊〉 holinesse fearfull in Praises and doing wonders Triumphing gloriously and overthrowing both the horse and his rider And truely so much the more glorious may this Victory appear unto us and the hand of God most evidently bee seen in it as to Gideon against those Enemies of God though it is true the number of men in the Army was not much different yet t is most true that the King had full 2000 horse more than wee yet I say this Victory will most notably appear to bee Gods Victory graciously given to us if wee consider both the time and condition of the kingdome as then it was And also the very Army it self First This Victory was bestowed upon us at such a time when as our spirits were and that most justly very low and exceedingly dejected both by onr losse of Leicester but a little before and thereby also the Kings releiving of West-Chester wee having at that time a marveilous great possibility of taking it but now were utterly frustrated of it Also the great sadnesse wee then were in for the danger of Taunton at this season a second time besieged strictly by outrageous Goring and Hopton Besides the great murmurings at this time of most men about our brethren of Scotlands not advancing Southward as was expected and then greatly desired And Secondly if wee consider the Army it selfe O the wonderfull base and despicable esteem that was thereof not onely in the Kings Army and Malignants but even among very many seeming friends among us and those no mean ones too O how did they disparage undervalue and contemne as it were this New-Modelled Army calling it a New Nodelled Army jeering them as a company of young Tyroes or fresh-water-Souldiers heerby as much as in them was to discountenance and dis-hearten the most noble Generall himself Sir Thomas Fairfax and to weaken the hands and despond the spirits of his Souldiers if God himself had not mightily upheld them and put as it were an extraordinary spirit and courage into them most remarkably making good that most excellent passage of the Apostle That God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise and the seeming weak thing of the world to confound the things which are mighty
God for him and his Posterity they certified how unfaithfull they should bee to God and his Majesty if they should conceal the present danger wherein hee is a danger infinitely greater than the displeasure of his people They therefore in the humility and greif of their Soules did prostrate themselves before his Throne and in the name of our Lord and Master Jesus Christ 〈◊〉 bold to warne him that the guilt which cleaveth so fast to his Throne and his Soule is such as if not timely repented will involve him and his Posterity under the wrath of the ever-living God Next they freely proceeded to acquaint his Majesty what were the occasions of his great and growing danger in which if they should bee silent their conscience would condemn them and the stones themselves would finde expressions As first for his being guilty of the shedding of the blood of many thousands of his best Subjects Secondly for permitting the Masse and other Idolatry both in his Family and Dominions Thirdly for his authorizing the book of Sports and by consequence the profanation of the Lords Day Fourthly for his not punishing of publike scandalls in and about his â—ourt Fifthly for the shutting of his ears from the humble and just desires of his faithfull Subjects Sixtly for his complying too much with the Popish party many wayes and namely by concluding the Cessation of Armes in Ireland and imbracing the Counsells of those who have not set God nor his good before their eyes Seventhly for resisting and by Armes opposing this Cause which so much concernes the glory of God his own honour and happinesse and the peace and safety of his Kingdomes Eightly for some other private causes of which his Majesty is conscious to himself It being not the desire of these grave and reverend men to have mentioned any particulars if that they had not already been publike and known For all these and for every one of them they implore his Majesty to fall down at the footstoole of the King of Glory to acknowledge his offences to make haste to repentance and to labor for peace with God through Jesus Christ that the Son of God may reign over him and his Kingdomes in his pure Ordinances and the Government of the Church Moreover they desire his Majesty to take notice that they are not staggering or faint hearted through diffidence of the successe of their Cause and the Covenant of the three Kingdomes unto which as God hath already given many testimonies of his favour and blessing so it shall bee their unshaken confidence that this is the work and Cause of God which shall gloriously prevaile against all opposition and from which with the assistance of the Grace of God they shall never suffer themselves to bee divided or withdrawn but shall zealously and constantly in their severall Vocations endevour with their Estates and Lives to pursue and advance the same This Remonstrance being so full of piety to God and allegiance to the King is able some would think to beget a better opinion in the stubbornest Malignants concerning the proceedings of our Brethren the Scots and either to perswade or convince them to a better understanding of them The Lord Digby hath returned answer that his Majesty will take it into consideration who knows but that God may so move his Royall heart that the Letters of this paper may bee more effectuall than an Army of men in the field and bee a happy means to reduce the King to his Parliament But notwithstanding all this hee still goes on in a most hardned condition like a most miserable Prince For as wee well knew in the mean while hee was making what possible speed hee could to recover new strength His Warrants are issued forth for supplies of men whiles the miserable and desolate Countrey that a long time hath suffered under the calamity of warre can lend him but little assistance either for men or money Wee heard that a great part of his Horsemen were wounded in Naseby fight and that hee lately made a halt and stayed the longer in Wales to understand the inclinations of the people Indeed his Army might well halt when that so many of his men were wounded and our swords have not so deeply wounded his men as hee hath wounded his own honour by calling over the Irish to assist him They say that there are a Legion or Brigade of Irish consisting of about 4000. who are newly landed to assist him I suspect the truth thereof and have reason to bee doubtfull of it because I finde that our greatest Intelligencers cannot agree amongst themselves and doe much vary in what place they are landed It is very likely that many are come over but not so many as are commonly reported And are the barbarous and prodigious Acts of the Irish in their own Kingdom such pleasing cruelties that they must bee sent for into England to act them over again heer Must the West which suffered the last yeer under the horrid lust and fury of the French bee now the Stage where the Irish shall act their Tragedies Rouze up thy self thou desolate and much afflicted West thou hast now the meanes to shake off the yoak of thy Subjection if thou art so happy as to apprehend the meanes of thy deliverance But to goe on About the 6 of this instant July whiles the poore King was thus fruitlesly strugling Per fas nefas to recruite his foresaid broken Army our most noble and renowned Generall Sir Thomas Fairfax was now in the West endevouring with all fidelity and magnanimity of spirit to purchase by Gods assistance Liberty to those long distressed parts of the Kingdom and just honour to himself and as credible information affirmed had sent a choyce body of horse to Gloucester to observe the motion of the Kings Army and to attend the landing of his forces on this side the River Severn which hee could not doe without apparent danger In which interim wee had certain intelligence that the Kings Garrison of Dudley Castle was shrewdly put to it For as they were abroad plundering the Country therabout Captain Hunt sell upon a party of them and having slain some hee took many horse from them and divers prisoners whom hee carried with him to Warwick Since which also as wee were credibly informed our Brethren of Scotland lighted on another party of them and after a brave conflict with them wherein divers of the Enemies were slain on the place they made them lesse in number by at least 80 horse than they were before And shortly after this wee were for certain certified that the Governour of Stafford came up with a party of horse and gave an alarm to the Castle it self Whereupon the Enemy not enduring the affront drew forth into the field thinking indeed our party not to bee so strong as afterward they found it and to increase this their apprehension and conceit therein Colonell Ashburst politickly retreated on purpose
to draw them from their place of refuge and to gaine more miles to follow the pursuite which by Gods mercy they resolutely intended Now the Enemy thinking all their own came on as farre as Wolverhampton after him where the brave Colonell facing about and giving them a violent charge brake quite through them and charging them again hee absolutely routed them and took many prisoners among whom were 2 Captains 3 Leivtenants and other Officers about 60 horse and much Armes all which hee brought safely into Stafford And much about the foresaid time wee had certain intelligence by Letters from that much honoured Patriot Sir William Armyne and Mr. Henry Darley and the rest of the Commissioners of the North that the Town of Carlile which had divers weeks been besieged by a party of the Scottish Army under the Command of the noble Earl of Callender was now surrendred to our said Brethren of Scotland upon Articles of agreement viz. in breif that Sir Thomas Glemham then Governour thereof and his Souldiers should march with their Armes to Newark c. But that they left behinde them in the Town great store of Armes and Ammunition 20 peices of Ordnance and much other good provision About the 8 instant wee were certainly informed that shortly after the good successe of our Shrewsbury forces in the taking of Caus-Castle forementioned valiant Colonell Mackworth marched to Shrawarden-Castle where after summons and some shot sent forth a parley was offered and accepted and the said Castle on conditions surrendred to him wherein they found some competent store of Armes one Drake and much other good provision and the Enemy therein being about 300 in number were sent away to Ludlow as they desired and our forces presently after this with valiant Colonell Mackworth marched to Higharchall Castle And about the 10 of this instant July wee had certain information by Letters out of the West that the Right honourable and most renowned Generall Sir Thomas Fairfax and ever to bee honoured Major Generall Massey being happily conjoyned with their forces into one body at Branford they now marched forward to Taunton and understanding by their Scouts in what posture the Enemy was now a third time sate down about that notable eye-sore of theirs terribly maligned Taunton they advanced toward them But Goring hearing of Sir Thomas his approach drew off to Chard and not daring to fight drew off all his Army from before Taunton and marched quite away from them whereby that brave Town and the thousands of most precious Soules therein were now a third time blessed bee the Lord clearly set at Liberty from farther fear and danger of those their base and barbarous blood-thirsty Enemies who like devouring Locusts had lyen long lurking about their parts and quarters in greedy gaping hope every day to have eaten them up But who being thus happily driven away the Country round about came in unto them most joyfully with all kinde of provisions in abundance whereby they had presently a most plentifull Market kept among them The preservation of this Town was indeed of very great concernment and most worthily to bee accounted no lesse than a marveilous mercy from heaven and therefore to give the Lord our God all due honour and praise for the same And withall wee may not neglect his instruments therein but in the next place highly praise and prize their love and labours especially heer also to make particular mention of the ever to bee honoured Generall Sir Thomas Fairfax who after so much hardship in Marches Siege and Battail in so short a time trod so much ground as to come so seasonably to the releif of so many brave spirited and undaunted resolved Souldiers and honest-hearted inhabitants who with so much difficulty and in much want of necessaries had maintained themselves and defended the Town against a very potent and most pestilent and blood-thirsty Atheisticall adversary About the same time also came certain intelligence unto us by Letters out of Gloucestershire that a party of the Parliaments forces being before Barkley Castle at a distance to keep in the Enemy from ranging abroad there being about 15 or 16 horse that were as Sentinels attending the Castle the Enemy prepared a party from within of about 300 horse and foot and came forth thinking to surprize the said Sentinells but those few horse discovering the Enemies approach unto them took the best advantage they possibly could and bravely defended themselves till the alarm came to the rest of their horse who thereupon came in speedily to their rescue and fell upon the Enemy with much courage and routed them killed 16 in the place whereof 2 were forward Captains many were wounded and about 40 taken prisoners Sir Charles Lucas the Governour of the Castle was there in person in the fight and escaped with a wound as wee were informed wee took also at the same time 30 horse and upward and a 100 Armes and pursued the Enemy to the very Castle-gates and in this brave service wee lost not above 3 men And thus wee see the Lord does great things for us every day ever magnified bee his name therein And about the 12 instant divers Gentlemen and others of the City of Westminster came to the Parliament and presented a petition to the House of Commons in the name of the whole City of Westminster setting forth the great happinesse and priviledge they now enjoy by the care of the Parliament and unwearied paines of the Divines of the Assembly that preach the morning Lecture weekly at the Abbey in Westminster whereby many that lived in Darknesse and Ignorance for many yeares together doe now see the light of the Gospel more clearly and plainly than ever their humble suite to the House was that the said Ministers so preaching weekly viz. Dr. Stanton Mr. Marshall Mr. Nye Mr. Palmer Mr. Hill and Mr. Whittaker may have a competent maintenance allowed them out of the Revenues of the late Dean and Chapter of the said Abbey that so they may in some measure bee enabled to subsist and encouraged to goe on in this great work of converting and bringing Soules daily nearer to God After reading of this Petition and debate thereupon an Ordinance was read and Committed to a Committee for regulating the Colledge of Westminster after which the House gave Order the Petitioners should bee called in before the House where Mr. Speaker in the Name and by command of the whole House informed the Petitioners that the House had read and debated their Petition and had likewise read an Ordinance for regulating the Colledge of Westminster and had put them both in a way to their satisfaction and returned them the thanks of that House for their care and zeale for the publike Much also about the foresaid time wee received certain information by Letters from Abbington of the prosperous successe and brave exploits of our forces under the command of that
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
Generall Cromwell at Hambleton-hill on Munday the 4. of August 1645. TWo thousand five hundred routed Three hundred taken Prisoners Twelve slaine upon the place Many wounded Two thousand Armes of all sorts viz. Musquets Pikes Pistols Halberts Birding-peeces c. All their Colours and Drums and other Baggage On our side we lost only three men and some wounded About the eigth of this instant we had certaine intelligence out of Wales that that most valiant active and faithfull Commander in those parts Major Generall Laughorne was also very sucessefull in those parts of Wales and understanding that the Kings designes and hopes were now quite frustrated of receiving any more strength out of Wales and that therefore the ravenous Royalists yet residing there in Garrisons being out of hope of further help and subsistance then what they had or could get by plunder they began therefore to consume and destroy the Inhabitants hopes of their then present Harvest that thus nothing might be left undone as much as in them lay to make Wales as miserable as the West and truly unhappy indeed Their Commanders in Chiefe were Major Generall Stradling and Major Edgâ—â—ton But this I say the noble Major Generall understanding he came with his Forces and fell upon them at Colby-Moore within three miles of Haverford-West or thereabout as they were firing the Country and Corne and that with such successe and courage that after a sharp encounter he enforced the Enemy to fly with the losse of at least 150 of their men who were slaine upon the place and in rout and pursuit of whom tooke three Colonels twelve Majors forty other Officers 700 Prisoners foure Peeces of Ordnance five Barrels of Powder 1000 Armes and all the Carriages that the Enemy had There were hearty thanks given to Almighty God for the great Victory by Order from the Parliament upon the next ensuing Lords Day in all the Churches in London And indeed this brave Victory was the more remarkable because our Forces in those parts had been a long time before kept very low and the Country had suffered much by the violence and fury of Gerrard But now this most active loyall and valiant Major Generall prosecuting this his Victory and good Successe tooke also the Town and Castle of Haverford-West by a speedy storming of it and in it 120 Common Souldiers 20 Commanders and Officers in Armes whereof one Colonell one Lieutenant Colonell and one Major also one Peece of Ordnance and about 150 Arms. About the 12 of this instant August we also received certaine information by Letters from our most renowned Generall Sir Thomas Fairfax That about the tenth instant that strong Castle of Sherburne which the Enemy had vaunted would continue and hold out a half yeares Siege at least was most valiantly stormed and the next day taken the manner whereof was in briefe as followeth Upon the tenth as aforesaid our great Guns began to batter the strong wall of the Castle between the two lesser Towers thereof and had soone beaten down one of them and before six of the Clock that night had made a breach in the Wall so as twelve a breast might enter whereupon the most noble Generall sent a Drum with a third Summons to surrender the Castle signifying with all That if he were put to a Storme they within would be left inexcusable But Sir Lewis Dives then Governour detained the Drum and when the Drum spake some words as Sir Lewis thought sawcily he told him he was in the presence of a better man than his Generall and sent no Answer till two of the clock on Friday morning and then he sent a Drum with this Messuage in writing to the Generall Sir Lewis Dives his Answer to the Generals Summons SIR I must acknowledge the advantage you have of me by being Master of my Wals and that you may thinke me obstinate without reason I have sent this Drum unto you to let you know that if I may have such Conditions from you as are fit for a souldier and a Gentleman with honour to accept I shall surrender this Castle into your hands otherwise I shall esteeme it a farre greater happinesse to bury my bones in it and the same resolution have all those that are with me And give me leave to adde this That your Victory will be crowned with more honour by granting it than you will gaine glory by the winning it with the losse of so much blood as it will cost I am your Servant Lewis Dives Sherburne Castle August 15. 1645. Upon the receipt of this Answer our men presently prepared to storme the Castle which they performed with so much courage and resolution that instantly twenty of the Cabs leaped over the Wall and came to our men crying for Quarter the rest of them within being as much amazed as the former cryed out for a Parley but then it was too late onely Quarter was given them for their lives and so our men entred the Castle where they tooke Prisoners Sir Lewis Dives Colonell and Governour of the Castle together with his Lady Colonell Sir John Strangewaies one of the Lord Pawlets Sons one Sir Cotton Knight and Lieutenant Colonell Russell an Atturney and sometime Sub-Governour of Weymouth for the King two Apostate Members of the House of Commons divers of the Commissioners of Array 9 Captaines 11 Lieutenants 3 Cornets 5 Colours 55 Malignant Gentlemen of Wiltshire and Dorsetshire 10 Malignant Priests 400 Common Souldiers above 800 Armes 16 Peeces of Ordnance a Morter Peece and a Murtherer 60 Barrels of powder great store of Provisions and rich housholdstuffe together with other good plunder which the Enemy had before taken from the Country all which plunder our brave Souldiers merrily divided among them and that most deservedly There were few of the Enemies slaine in the storme and as few left unstript of what was worth anything after the Storme We lost not above 94 men in all this siege and taking of the Castle whereof Captain Dove and two other Captains slaine with him About Aug. 16. our most pious Parliamentary Worthies religiously Ordered That for the further advancement of the worke of Reformation in matters of Religion First That no Bibles should be vented in this Kingdome without the perusall of the Assembly of Divines or such other persons as should be thereunto appointed Also That all the Knights and Burgesses of the severall Counties of the Kingdome within the power of the Parliament should send printed Bookes of the Directory for Gods Worship fairly bound up in Leather unto the Committees of Parliament residing in the respective Counties of England and Wales who should with all convenient speed send the same and cause them to be delivered unto the severall respective Constables or other Officers of all the severall Parishes and respective Chappalries and Donatives within the Kingdome of England and Dominion of Wales and the Port and Town of Barwick that is
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
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
the next morning and thence to Sherburne where they met with a Countryman who told them that our men were prepared for their coming as so indeed a party of ours were of about 800 Foot and some Horse upon whom the Enemy fiercely falling being but a handfull to them they soone routed the Horse beat Colonell Wrens Regiment at the North side of Sherburne and tooke all the Foot Prisoners disarmed them all presently and laid their Armes in a great heap in Sherburme street till they could get Carriages to take or send them away for their further use But we having certain intelligence hereof marched thither with all speed and being now come to Sherburne we drew up our Horse and ordered them into bodies for Charges and Reserves But here first we fell into a great strait for we durst not march thorow Milford fearing the Enemies with their Dragoones for we heard they had such but they had none might have put us into disorder but above the Towne through the hedges which also was some inconvenience we were forced whom we came neare Sherburne and the Enemy drawing out against us to draw over a narrow way through an impossable Brooke which we knew not of having much adoe thereby to bring our bodies againe into order which truly might have occasioned the losse of the day unto us had not the Enemy been somwhat too late being busie with their Armes and Prisoners taken in the Towne as God had wisely disposed of it for us in drawing out of the Towne So thus then by Gods assistance I brought up against every of the Enemies bodies as neer as I could a body of ours and resolutely faced them in the Field both parties striving who should be soonest in Battalia But here let me give thee good Reader a sight of Sir Marmaduke Langdales Speech made to his Souldiers in the Field before the Fight began which came to my hand and was unquestionably a true Copy of the substance thereof and this it was Gentlemen YOu are all gallant men and have done bravely but there are some that seeke to scandalize your gallantry for the losse of Naseby Field but I hope you will redeem your reputation and still maintaine that gallant report which you ever had I am sure you have done such businesses as never have been done in any war with such a number your march from Oxford first beating of Rossiter and the reliefe of Pomfret the like I believe was never done And I hope you are Gentlemen and that you will still maintaine it and redeeme that which you have lost For mine owne part I will not have you upon any designe but where I will lead you my self And thus now I say he led them on into the Field Now the Enemy being also much flusht and incouraged with their late good successe against us charged valiantly upon us and ours answered them with as brave gallantry as could be at first the left wings on both sides were routed but in the conclusion our Reserves coming on so seasonably and couragiously the Enemy was forced to flie and we by Gods blessing got the day though I must confesse divers of our Horse as I toucht before were routed at first and the mischiefe fell most upon my Regiment who charged the onely gallant men the Reformadoes that the Enemy had One of their chiefe Commanders the Lord Digby by name was wounded as we were credibly informed and Sir Marmaduke Langdale himself also had foure Pistols fired upon him but whether he was wounded or not was then uncertaine unto us But the Victory was clearly ours ever magnified and praised be our great and gracious God and we solely kept the Field and pursued the Enemy at least three miles together Many prisoners were taken we believe 400 at least Sir Richard Hutton was slaine upon the place whose Corps his kinred having protection thereunto buried in the place he formerly had desired to be laid in I have here sent the List of their slaine and prime prisoners taken by us which you shall receive by Colonell Lilburne Many of our men were wounded but hardly ten slaine This was certainly a great businesse and a rare mercy unto us for the Enemy made themselves absolutely sure to have been in the City of Yorke that night or the next day at farthest but now they are scattered blessed be the Lord for it And that which was not the least part of our Victory we recovered againe all our men and Arms which they had before taken from us in Sherburne as also the prevention of the Enemies intended march to Montrose in Scotland which with the taking of Yorke in the way was the maine designe which the Enemy eagerly aimed at in this their thus undertaken march Not unto us Lord not unto us but to thy name alone we give as most due all the honour and glory hereof Honourable Gentlemen your desire of a full relation hath made me thus tedious for which I crave your pardon I shall present your Order to the Officers and Souldiers in the expression of your good acceptance of this our Service and your farther intended care for us And for the present I rest Your most humble Servant Chr. Copley Octob. 16. 1645. A List of the prime Prisoners and of the Prizes taken at this Battell at Sherburne on Wednesday Octob. 15. 1645. about foure of the Clock in the afternoone COl Sir Francis Anderson Col. Bulmer Col. Chayton Col. Carnaby Lieut. Col Matthew Wentworth Lieut. Col. Gordon Major Graythorn Captaine Leneon Master of the Ordnance Capt. James Cholmley wounded Capt. Marshall wounded Capt. Pudsey wounded And foure Captains more Capt. Lieut. Salter Lieut John Turner and divers other Reformadoes Master Duke Tunstall a great Papist Mr. Clavering Mr. Lowither Col. Sir Francis Carnaby slaine Col. Sir Richard Hutton slaine and 40 more Mr. Slingsby sore wounded Col. Clavering and Carnabyes Colours taken with divers other Colours Lord Digbyes Coach and the Kings Surgeon in it but eespecially his Cabinet wherin were divers Letters some wherof of great cōsequence written in a new Character the Character also found which could open all Much gallant Pillage We lost not ten men but many wounded The Enemie were about 1600 intended for Montrosse ours about 2250. About sixe hundred of the Enemy gone towards Skipton 300 or 400 Troopers taken about six hundred Horses 40 slaine and many wounded The Countesse of Nidsdale taken and some other Ladies About October 24 we received certaine intelligence by Letters from the most renowned Generall Sir Thomas Fairfax his Excellency to the Parliament as also by other unquestionable informations out of the West of the taking of the Towne Church and Castle of Tiverton by his Excellencies Forces in those parts the manner whereof in briefe was thus faithfully related Upon Thursday Octob. 16. Major Generall Massie was ordered by the Generall to advance to Tiverton
Colonell Birches Leiutenant Colonell Hammond who indeed carryed the businesse bravely and behaved himselfe most gallantly therein and the maine body of foot Colonell Birch himselfe led and Colonell Morgan the horse but the forlorn hope of horse which were first to enter was Commanded by brave Captaine Temple These things being thus designed in the morning after that the trevalley was beaten and upon the first letting-downe of the draw-bridge 3. men came out of the City not discerning any body the Firelocks lay so close and now the Constable with a hedgebill on his shoulder and the other 6. Souldiers like homely Countrie Labourers with spades and Mattocks came forth to their worke and the 3. foresaid men went along on their way seeing none else till they came beyond the hill and then perceiving our men they spake pretty loud to themselves What doe all these men here Whereupon they were instantly surprized and snapt-up and so could not stir back to give any notice of ought they saw And now the Constable and 〈◊〉 Labourers were come to the Draw-bridge where the guard began to examine them The Constable told the Centinell that he was come to doe his worke with those workmen according to his warrant from the Governour which they presently desired to see the Constable shewed it him and so he and the rest looking on it to read it the 6. men came close to them and were now on the top of the bridge and as they were reading the warrant the Constable with his hedge-â—ill knockt down the Centinell who instantly fell down dead at his feet the other Labourers killed 2. more of them and so all these 7. kept the others in play busâ—ing at the Bridge to over master them all which Leiutenant Colonell Hammond seeing who stood on the top of the hill to watch the Event and so gave the signe to all the Firelocks by houlding up and shaking his Hat unto them even all the 150. that lay coucht in the house whereupon out they all rushed and came speedily but yet orderly to the Bridge where they found the Constable and his Labourers close at their work indeed and so the Fire-locks making way for the horse and the horse close following them over the Bridge they got and into the Town they entred Captainâ— Temple and Sir John Bridges marched on in the forlorn hope of horse Leivtenant Colonell Hammond with the forlorn hope of Firelocks and Captaine Aldern with the reserve of foot and thus I say they entred bravely Captaine Temple with his horse-troope doing speciall good service making his way to the mainguard where his horse was shot under him and he fought so stoutly that his sword also was broken in his hand to the very hilt and three of his Troopers onely being slaine which was all the losse that we sustained of our men in this whole worke and some wounded The Commanders both of horse and foot I meane especially both Colonell Morgan and Colonell Birch did most excellent service from the first to the last of this brave service and so did the rest of the Commanders and Officers and went on so gallantly and undauntedly notwithstanding that they and their Souldiers had layen out all that cold night that they quickly seized on all the guards insomuch that at last many of the Enemie had got through the market place up to their chambers and thence discharged their Muskets and Pistolls upon our men and many of the Malignant Townesmen did the like out of their windowes which so enraged our men that they slew 8. in the streets but when the Enemie saw our men come in so fast and in great numbers they cryed out for quarter By this meanes the Souldiers fell toâ—â—â—â—ndering and rifling and tooke what they could catch from which the Governour of Gloucester Colonell Morgan could by no meanes restraine them for they accounted all their own in regard they entred the City by an ouslat and had so much opposition And thus by 12. of the clocke that night they had fully got the whole City and taken most of their prisoners This mercie was wonderfull unto us let the Lord have all the honour and praise thereof who made in so succesfull unto us in all the particulars of it from the first to the last A List of the prisoners and prizes thus taken in Hereford by Collell Morgan Governour of Gloucester and Colonell Birch now made Governour of Hereford THe Lord Brudenell the Bishop of Hereford by name Doctor Cooke Sir Fra. Howard Sir Marmaduke Floyd Sir Henry Beding-field Sir Walter Blunt and 2. more of the Blunts both Knights also and Papists Sir Rich. Kennish Sir Richard Weston Sir Thomas Lunsford Sir George Vaugham Sir Gyles Mumpessons Sir John Stepney Sir Fra. Lloyd Sir Philip Jones Sir Edw. Morgan Sir Nicholas Throgmorton Sir Richard Basset Sir Henry Spiller Sir Roger Bodingham Lievtenant Colonell Price Leivtenant Col. Jones Lieutenant Colonell Lewes Lieutenant Colonell Tooley and Lievtenant Colonell Jefferies Major Mathewes and Major Sayer Major Lewis Major Roberts Major Price and also Judge Jenkins Captaines 9. Secretarie Barnes 4. Leivtenants 3. Cornets one Ensigne one Quarter-master one Commissarie 2. Gentelmen of worth and quality besides Mounseiur Peter Morlet French Gent. 3. Chirurgeons together with many other Officers and Troopers of worth and quality and by the relation of the Townesmen there were at least 2000. Papists of all conditions then in the Town who had fled hither for their security since the taking of Chepstow and other places there abouts We tooke there also 12. peeces of Ordnance but as for the rest of the Magazine and Ammunition there was not then a full account given thereof it being then so scattered and disperst in the Towne Of what consequence this Towne is unto us may appeare in that the whole Countie of Hereford is by thus obtaining of this City brought into the obedience of the â—arliament and not onely so but all South-Wales and a good Omen for the reducing of Ragland Castle all provisions and intercourse being stopped out of Wales also to Worcester and Ludlow and the Enemies of other Garrisons thereabout being by this meanes in a faire way of reduction to the Parliament this next Spring by the gracious assistance of our good God Colonell Morgans Secretary who first brought the intelligence of this so gallant peece of service to the Parliament had 50 l. given him for his paines therein and Colonell Birches Messenger had 20 l. given to him also by Order from both Houses of Parliament And the Parliament taking into serious consideration the extraordinary providence and unexpected much more immerited mercy of God in thus gaining this strong City and that with so little losse of blood made thereupon these severall Orders following First That on the next Lords Day bounden thanks should be rendred to Almighty God for this great mercy by the Ministers in their severall
to prevent intelligence between them also and the Enemy And immediately after it for the more fully enabling of the said renowned City to terrifie and over-awe their open and secret Enemies the House of Commons passed an Ordinance for the establishing of a Court-Martiall in the said City of London for the triall of Spies and other noxious Delinquents who shall come out of the Kings Quarters to lurke and watch for opportunities of doing mischiefe and named severall Commanders and Gentlemen who were to be Members of that Councell And here now good Reader be pleased againe to make a little pause seriously to ponder and consider in thy most thankfull heart the unexhaustible over-flowings in bounty and blessings and the unwearied out-goings of thy wonder-working God in this Moneths mighty mercies also and most memorable benedictions on this his blessed Burning-Bush still unconsumed still marvellously preserved and maintained in a most fair and flourishing state and condition maugre the many and mighty flames of the firy and restlesse rage of the Royalists continually menacing and molesting the same as hath been most copiously discovered both in our most loyall and loving Brethren of Scotlands faithfull and valiant assistance in the besieging of Newarle and their brave winning of Muschamp Bridge and Fort there And the voluntary submission of the County of Brecknock in Wales to the obedience of the Parliament In the obtaining of that pernicious den of robbers I mean that strong Garrison of Latham House in Lancashire and Fulford House in the West In the most remarkable and happy surprisall of the Towne and Castle of Hereford by a notable stratagem wherein the hand of God was most admirably evident In delivering that strong Fort of Canon-Tean and that strong Garrison of Callyntine-House at Exeter into the Parliaments possession and thereby strengthning ours and weakening the Enemies hands In the happy rendition of Skipton Castle also a strong hold of the Enemies into our hands whereby almost all the Northerne parts of the Kingdome were set at liberty And sixthly and lastly In putting into the hearts of our Worthies in Parliament and the loyall Citizens of London prudently and providently to foresee future probable contingent dangers and carefully to forecast to prevent and avoid them All which rare and remarkable Parliamentary Mercies gratefully and graciously put together give us great cause with holy David to sing and say In God the Lord alone is our salvation and our glory the rock of our strength and our sure refuge is in God O therefore let us trust in him at all times and poure out our hearts before him in all holy and humble acknowledgements that God alone is a refuge unto us But to go on And now I shall againe begin the serious survey of the rich and rare mercies of God to this his Burning-Bush the Parliaments Cause in this ensuing Moneth of January with a memorable passage of fidelity in the Governour of Plymouth Colonell Kerre who having been most vehemently tempted by Sir John Digby Brother to the traiterous George Lord Digby who then commanded in chief those Forces of the Kings which so long had besieged this brave and loyall Towne of Plymouth this young treacherous Royalist I say having by Letters Messages and mighty promises of a reward of 10000 l. in money and high preferment in the Kings Army endeavoured to intice the noble and loyall Governour to betray and give up this brave Towne into the Enemies hands He contrariwise most loyally disdaining such base and treacherous underhand-dealings returned that traiterous Knight this noble Answer which for the honour of this brave Gentlemans so faithfull resolution I have thought exceeding fit here to insert which was as followeth SIR YOur motion to treason I have seen and detest it it is below my spirit for a personall injury supposed onely by an Enemy to take a Nationall Revenge and for a punctilio of honour to take advice from Hell and to betray my trust I am sorry that one so ingenious as your self should 〈◊〉 your naturall parts onely to do mischiefe yet I have no reason to â—â—der much at your perswasion to treachery because I have had experience of the indeavour of your Family to corrupt others also I remember the Gunpowder-plot and withall the Letter which not long since your Brother wrote to my Lord Roberts tending to the same subject and his negotiation with Major Generall Browne at Abington Surely these principles came from Spaine but you should have told me also that Spanish Proverbe To love the Y reason and hate the Traytor Sir if my counsell may take with you then I beseech you to consider of the evill counsell which you and your party have given to his Majesty whereby the Kingdome especially those parts under your power are become almost a desolation And when you have thought upon the sad effects of these wars then let your heart tell you this truth that much of the blood and rapine in this Country must lye upon your account and guilt may inforce you to seeke for termes of Reconciliation first with God then with the Representative Body of the Kingdome whom you have se highly offended Let not this advice from him whom you call Enemy be despised as you hope for mercy and the respects of him who according to the Nationall Covenant resolves to be Assuredly your Servant JAMES KERRE How the young Gallant did blush if at least he had any shame in him at the perusall of this Letter I leave to all the ingenuous Readers to judge It was a brave letter indeed and most worthy to live in Cedar or to be engraven in indelible Marble and out live them both to this brave Gentlemans eternall honour which being speedily after made known to the Parliament was and that most justly most gratefully resented by both Houses and he rewarded with the present gift of 500. l. and most loving assurance of farther preferment on the first and sittest oportunity And presently after this the Lord to shew his detestation of all such disloyall traiterous enterprises as a punishment of this particular impious instigation to this treason crowned the loyall Governour of this Town of Plymouth with a fair occasion of just revenge and put a fit oportunity into his hands of singular good successe against this Treacherous Enemie which had there long besieged them which was intimated by Letters to a worthy Member of the House of Commons in Parliament in their taking of 2. Forts from the Enemie which had been a great annoyance to those our loyall friends and by which victorie they then got more elbow-roome and liberty to enlarge their quarters than before the particulars whereof were as followeth Our men after a small dispute tooke from the Enemie Canterburie-Fort and in it 17. Prisoners And afterward marched to Saint Bendeaux where after a hot skirmish of an houre and a halfe long our men tooke the Church-yeard which was strongly
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
length the Ragland horse drew towards Cardiffe in Glamorganshire being a Parliament Garrison whereupon the Governour and Committee there sent to Colonell Kern lately made High-Sheriffe of that Shire by the Parliament and to the rest of the Countrie to rise in a body to oppose the Enemie But contrarie to expectation this Colonell Kern and the Malignant Gentrie being at their Rendevouz so prevailed with the people thus now raised as to besiege Cardiffe which was done with about 2000. men and so in a short time they tooke the Towne having also the assistance of the Malignant Townsmen Hereupon the Governour Committee and Souldiers betooke themselves to the Castle And Gods good providence so ordered it that Major Generall Laughorn Sir Trevor VVilliams and Colonell Keyrl and a party sent from Bristol from Major Generall Skippon came in good season to their assistance for the Governour and Committee as I toucht before had sent to them and to Colonell Morgan to acquaint them with their estate their provisions were now almost spent in the Castle and being so come fought most valiantly with the Country men and Ragland forces who were joyned on a Heath neere the Towne and at length by Gods great mercy to us routed them and just upon the nick thereof Colonell Morgan with a party from Gloucester came in also unto them and did brave service in the pursuite of the Enemie where they slew many and tooke many prisoners and forced them to flie backe to the Towne but Major Generall Laughorn pursued them and releived the Castle the enemie continuing in the Towne a while till at last Articles were agreed on that they should march away with 〈◊〉 flying match lighted 〈◊〉 But having marched some pretty distance from the Towne 〈◊〉 was given by the Enemie for â—â—â—ach of their articles whereupon both sides were ingaged in a second very hot fight in which were slaine and drowned of the Enemie at least 400. above 500. taken prisoners the rest were all scattered and fled we lost very few men in this service though many were hurt This service certainly was of very great concernment and rightly considered with the circumstances was none of the least mercies among many of our late famous successes and victories which God vouchsafed us For had the Treacherous plot tooke effect by this Colonell Kerns defaction and the revolt of this County of Glamorgan South-VVales had beene lost again which probably would have afforded many thousands to the king to joyne in a body with Sir Jacob Ashley who to this end and on this hope had drawne his forces this way from Oxford to Worcester and so forward hither thus to joyne and make strong recruites and also to have gathered together their scattered quarter'd-men that came from Chester with Byron and at Garrisons thereabout and thus to make a fair armie in the field presently But our God with whom they consulted not saw and smiled at their malice and mischiefe and hath thus most graciously crushed this Cockatriâ—e in the Egge and made this dangerous defigne a meere blasted Embrio dying in the wombe ever magnified and blessed be the Lord our good God for it Upon the intelligence of which most famous victory to the Parliament it was ordered that 1000 l. should be forthwith charged upon the Excise for the payment of renowned Major Generall Laughornes forces And the Commons conferred upon himselfe an additionall considerable estate in regard of the singular good service now and formerly performed by him most faithfully and successefully for the King and Parliament And upon the 28. of this instant Februarie we received most certaine intelligence of the taking of Corff-Castle which being fully related in a Letter sent from those parts from a speciall good hand I have here for the Readers better content and satisfaction inserted a Copy thereof which was as followeth Sir There being in Corffe-castle One Leiutenant Colonell Pitman who had formerly served the Lord Inchiquin in Ireland upon some intimation given that he had a desire to doe the Parliament an acceptable service in procuring this Castle to be delivered up to the Parliaments possession in case he might have a protection granted him Accordingly a protection was here privately procured and sent downe unto him and thereupon the plot was thus laid viz. Lieutenant Colonell Pitman having speech with Captaine Aniketell the Governour told him that if he would give way unto it he would goe into Somersetshire and privately get 100. men more and bring them into the Castle and then considering what had been formerly done he made no question but they should beat off the besiegers and make them quit the place and that he would finde meanes to colour his going out by obtaining leave to goe for an exchange of a friend of his for one of the Parliaments side that was prisoner in the Castle Which being assented unto and leave given by Colonell Bingham for him to goe forth accordingly an appointment was made and the designe so laid as that Pitman under the Colour of bringing in the 100. men for the enemy should bring in 100. of the Parliaments Souldiers and that the besiegers should give the onset the same time Accordingly 100. commanded men were taken out of severall Companies of the Garrison of Waymouth and secretly marched to Lulworth castle whence they marched away with some 30. or 40. more joyned with them as silently as they could untill they came to the place Lieutenant Colonell Pitman leading them on to the Sally-port where Captaine Aniketill the Governour stood to welcome them with much courtesie some of the men being Somersetshiremen fitted for the purpose he being that Countrey-man yet some intermixed amongst them in a disguised habit who knew all parts of the castle When 50 of these were entered Captaine Aniketill seeing many yet behind refused to suffer any more to enter saying those were enough and more than he could tell what to doe with at which Pitman seemed to be very angry saying he had done him wrong in causing him to bring men so far with the hazard of their lives and then to shut them out and make them lie in the cold and to be in danger of having their throats cut But those that were taken in got presently some of them into the Kings Tower others into the Queenes Tower and the rest into the two Platformes standing upon their guard and making it good expecting the besiegers would give the onset by scalado or otherwise it being about two of the clocke after midnight and thus it continved three or foure 〈◊〉 the besiegers in all that time never falling on and the Garrison in the meane space shooting and vapouring and threatning to cut the throats of all that were entred But those 50. standing stoutly to it at last when it was open day the besiegers when they saw their friends that were formerly entred to be on the tops of the Towers platformes then they began
were some of the Runawayes from Torrington and some Welchmen that were left at Launceston and fled hither and some others of the Countrey in all to the number of four hundred at the most which is the onely body of Infantry they have left that we can yet heare of the same Intelligencer confirmed That the Lord Mahone is either restrained or wounded by the Lord Hopton yet the certainty thereof more than the publique report of the Countrey we cannot yet heare I doubt it falls out ill we have not a Squadron of Ships towards Fulmouth where no doubt they may have rich booty and intercept persons of great quality Severall Letters have beene sent unto Plymouth to the Commander in chiefe upon these Coasts we hope that they will yet come seasonable The Prince is at Pendennis and I believe within two dayes will be in France if the wind hold The head Quarter was this night at Bodman three Regiments marched to Listithiel to secure the passage that way the Forlorn hope of Horse that went thither made the Enemy quit their Guard at Listithiel and receiving Information that foure Wain-load of Ammunition was in the way to goe from Listithiel to Foy six of the Troopers rode after it and made the Convoy defert their charge and brought backe the foure load of Ammunition this night to Bodman there being 〈…〉 to every draught Likewise a party being sent out another way overtooke forty two Musketiers who had their Matches lighted and Muskets loaden foure Troopers 〈◊〉 up unto them and made them all lay downe their Arme and brought them backe Prisoners to the head Quarters Another party was sent towards Truro to discover whether the Enemies Horse remained in a body and at Castle-Denâ— is discovered a body of about a thousand horse an houre before night which we conceive only â—â—aid till the darknesse of the night to draw off after the rest further West they are so Alarm'd by our parties that they are forced to keepe in bodies and can hardly goeâ— to Quarter which will quickly make them weary and over-watchâ— and altogether unfit to breake through if they had any such intention which I believe now they have not That we keepe strong Guards at Listithiel Ware-Bridge and the Fords upon both Rivers Sir John Greenville Lieutenant Colonell and divers others are taken Prisoners Bodman March 2. ten at night About the 8 of this instant March we received most certaine information That the valiant and most faithfull Commander Colonell Moore Governour of Mountgoâ—â—ie Castle marched forth in much privaciâ— with a party of about 26. horse and 70. foot having got intelligence that Sir Iohn Watts late Governour of Chirk-Castle scituated within 4. miles of Osmestrie quartered that night within 3. miles of 〈◊〉 Castle which with security he conceived he might the beaten doâ— in regard the Governours troop of horse was at the siege before High-Archall and the forces of Red-castle were with Colonell Mitton before 〈◊〉 But this brave and as valiant aâ— vigilant Commander Colonell Moore with his foresaid small parâ—ie fell suddenly and Courageously in to Sir Iohn Watts his quâ—â—ters but the Enemiâ— much good the Church about 2 houres untill the doores were 〈◊〉 upon them Whereupon ourâ— entred and Sir Iohn himselfe was there taken prisoner together with 5. Captaines 2. Lieutenants 6. Gentlemen of worth and quality one Priest 100. foot 50. gallant horse besides troâ—pe horses and all his baggage These forces were appointed to have met Sir Jacob Ashley at his Rendezvous but were thus happily 〈◊〉 by the gallantry of this noble Colonell Moore whereby that designe was thus much lessened blessed be the Lord for it And the 12 of this instant March we received yet more excellent newes of our most noble and victorious Generals still prosperous advances into Cornwall by Letters from the foresaid worthy Gentleman Master Rushworth the Generals Secretary to the Honourable Speaker of the House of Commons which for the Readers better content and full satisfaction I have here inserted verbatim as they were printed and published by authority which were as followeth To the Honourable William Lenthall Esquire Speaker to the Honourable House of Commons SIR IN my last I gave you an account of the Armies being at Bodman Listithiel and parts thereabouts since that time we have not advanced it being held fit to spend two or three daies in securing as far as we are gone and leaving all safe behind us the businesse of Mount-Edgecomb hath somwhat taken up our time I hope to good purpose for this day came Master Coriton Master Lower Master Glanvile all formerly Members of the House of Commons and Master Trevisa to the Generall from Master Edgecomb concerning the surrender of his Fort and disbanding of his Regiment and the Forces thereabouts which is agreed unto I hope upon such Conditions as will not be unacceptable to the Parliament What influence this and the coming in of other Gentlemen of this County may have upon the rest of the Country you may easily perceive especially if you consider the quality of the persons of those that are already come in and desire to live under the protection of the Parliament viz. The Lord Malâ—â—â—â— Sir John Trelawny Colonell Trelawney Sir Nicholas 〈◊〉 Thomas Lomax Esq Pierce Edgeworth Esq William Seâ—â—â—â—â— Esq Mr. Corriton William Bond Esq Richard Edgeworth Esq Mr. Glanvile Esq Major Nicholas Saul Capt. William Bond of Earth Capt. Bourn Capt William Saul Alexander Lower Esq Mr. Francis Saul Nathaniel Trevanion of Tregerthen Esq Major William Trevisa of Crokedon Esq John Battersby Esq Richard Spurre Esq Jo. Roe of Trewarnan Esq John Horndon Col. Champernoon Mr. Rashly Mr. John Trevery Governour of Foy. Mr. Bageley Mr. Walter Hele. Lieut. Col. Fortescue Major Warren Sir Richard Prideaux High Sheriffe of the County and divers others Also Mr. Arrundel the Papist a man of power desires to be under the Protection of the Parliament And as a further Testimony of the reality of some others of the Inhabitants of this County neer Saint Columb and yet in a manner now in the power of the Enemy this ensuing Petition delivered by the hands of Master Vivian with the consent of the Inhabitants of those parts where he lives will in some measure shew their affection to the Parliament To the Right Honourable Sir Thomas Fairfax Knight Captain Generall of the Forces raised by the High Court of Parliament under his Command and other the renowned Worthies of that Army Right Honourable WE though not an acceptable number of a more unacceptable County having by Gods blessing so faire an advantage of giving our due respects to your Honour do with them present our persons also which we most unfainedly protest have been hitherto by us most unvoluntarily separated as our former readinesse and frequent indeavours to advance this service besides Imprisonments Fines and other most miserable sufferings can evidently testifie And therefore we first blâ—sse the great Lord of
how far they have advanced towards a generall accord I cannot at present certifie I do not hear they have proceeded so far as to a Treaty and I believe That as the Parliament may be discouraged from that way of Treaty by former experiences of the fruitlesnesse thereof and the ill use the same hath been designed or driven to viz. only to gaine advantages for Wars without reall intention of Peace so the late overtures that way are the lesse like to be successefull by reason of the clear and certaine discoveries the Parliament have had That his Majesty at the same time was and is labouring by Agents in all parts to draw in Forraign Forces and especially That the Earle of Glamorgan by Commission from his Majesty had concluded a Peace with the Irish Rebels on Termes extreamly dishonourable and prejudiciall upon the only condition of sending over forces under the command of that Lord to invade England whereof I presume you cannot but have heard And though his Majesty did in a Letter to the Parliament disavow any such agreement and pretended he had given order to the Lord Digby for the attainting and impeaching the Earle of Glamorgan of high Treason for what he had done therein Yet by late discoveries to the Parliament and especially by Letters intercepted the other day at Padstow from the Lord Digby the Earle of Glamorgan and others to Secretary Nicholas your selfe Sir Edward Hide the Lord Culpepper and others it is most cleare and evident that the arresting of the Earle of Glamorgan was onely for a present colour to salve reputation with the people and continue their delusion till designes were ripe for execution for the same peace is fully concluded with the Rebels the King to have the aid conditioned upon the same agreement and the Earle of Glamorgan at liberty againe and to command that force in chiefe Now for the overture of a meeting to treat further about the Propositions I sent Though I know nothing materiall that I can adde or alter except in circumstances yet I shall not refuse or decline such a meeting or ought else that may probably tend to the saving of blood or preventing further misery to any Provided that the meeting be speedily and number of persons not to exceed 4 or 5. But my Lord when you consider what I have before related concerning forraign Supplies which I have reason to think you know and believe you see what cause I have to be jealous of advantages sought by delayes not intermit any time or omit any opportunity to prosecute the service I have in hand and that there may be no colour of your expecting that forbearance on my part which you offer on yours I do the more hasten back this my resolution unto you In pursuance whereof I do not despise nor shall insult upon your present condition I question not nor yet shall I hope be much moved with that resolution of your men I presume not on former successes nor present advantage in fleshly power but desire to trust in God alone whose favour and blessing to this Army above others I do not account in what is past or expect in future to be for any precedence in merit or goodnesse of ours whereby we should be more pleasing to him than others but from his owne free grace and goodnesse towards his people whose welfare with the common good of the Kingdome we seeke and desire with all faithfulnesse and integrity to pursue And so committing the issue of all to his good pleasure I remaine Your humble Servant T. FAIRFAX March 9. 1645. A List of such as are come in to Sir Thomas Fairfax during the Treaty THirty five Lieutenant Colonels Serjeant Majors and Captains came in March 11. Forty Gentlemen of quality that came in the same day some of great note One hundred Gentlemen and others that have stoâ—ne away by parties out of the Enemies Quarters Ninty six common Souldiers from Penryn with Arms. Twelve more followed them Forty from Penryn are gone home and have laid down their Armes Colonell Treoanian the Governour of Penryn by Treaty since All the Officers and Souldiers in the Fort and Harbour The Governour of Maus Castle All the Souldiers and Officers there One hundred Officers and Souldiers of Colonell Champernoones Regiment Falmouth by this meanes is ours on that side the Harbour Two thousand Horse at least that are ours by the Treaty Three or foure thousand Arms. About the same time also we received certaine information that Sir William Vaughan having united himself with Colonell De Villier had a resolution to make some new attempt againe in Wales but he and his Company were so well entertained by Captaine Ashley who was not above halfe so many in number that the whole body of the Enemy consisting of about 300 Horse were encountred routed and pursued by ours many of the Enemy slaine and taken prisoners the List whereof was thus in brief five killed upon the place 12 mortally wounded Captain Johnson taken Prisoner two Captains more two Lieutenants one Cornet eighteen other Prisoners and good store of Arms. And by the same Letters we received further intelligence that by the vigilant care of the brave and active Committee of Shrewsbury there was raised a very strong Worke within lesse than Musket shot of High-Archall by meanes whereof the Enemy could not stir either in or out but with their apparent danger And at the erecting of this Fort they tooke their opportunity of the Governour of High-Archals absence and before his returne they had made themselves so strong that although Sir Jacob Ashley came along with him with about 1000 Horse and Foot they were inforced to retreat and go back againe not daring to adventure on a place so gallantly manned and made so inaccessible both by art and nature as that was which indeed was the winning of that strong Garrison as you shall shortly heare in its proper place About the 20 of this instant March we received certaine knowledge of the taking of Shruardon Castle a place of great importance which brave service was performed by that active Patriot and couragious Commander Major Generall Mitâ—on And much about the same time also we received a full and exact relation of the remarkable successe of valiant and active Colonell Birch before Goderich Castle expressed by himself in his Letter to the Honourable Speaker of the House of Commons which was as followeth Honourable Sir SInce my last the 7 instant finding the forces of Goodrich under command of Sir Henry Lingen so active that a passenger could not be safe between Gloucester and Hereford nor could I quarter Horse abroad but they were in much danger nor could draw forâ—â—â— towards Ludlow or Worcester but they would come neer unto the City to plunder therefore I chose rather to run the hazard of storming the House wherein they kept their out-Guard upon their Boats and Stable being within 20 foot of
their Castle Wall than to suffer those former inconveniences which was done thus I marched out of Hereford munday night last with 500 Horse and Foot undiscovered untill I came within Pistoll shot of Goodrich a little before day then fell on with 100 firelocks for the Forlorn and entred over the Wall neare the end of their stable the wall was very high yet got over before they had a full alarm and found in the stable about fourescore Horse and five men which Horse I took all digging thorow the wall and turning them out the men were slaine and taken the stable with hay and other provision burnt In the mean time I fell on their out-Guard in a place called the Boat-House which was within Pistoll shot of the Castle which held out two houres untill it was digged thorow then they desired quarter for their lives wherein was Major Pateson Commander of the Horse and Major Benskin and 15 Gentlemen more and Troopers whom I brought to Hereford This successe it pleased the Lord to give me with little losse which is very advantagious and especially enabling me to perform those commands laid upon me by the right honourable the Committee for both Kingdoms And this day in the way as I was comming to Gloucester to that purpose some Horse belonging to Goodrich Castle way laid me which were out on a party when I tooke the rest munday night there being with me Colonell Kirle and about 12 more but not so many ready The Enemy stood in the way which we perceiving gave them a charge their number being 14. tooke and slew 12. and the other two escaping through the River to the Castle For the Forces under the command of Sir Jacob Ashley they are now neer Worcester I question not but a speedy course will be taken with them which shall be the constant endeavour of your most thankfull Servant John Birch About the 23 of this instant March we received certaine intelligence of the famous and most happy victory obtained by the Forces of ever to be honoured Sir William Brereton valiant Colonell Morgan and Colonell Birch over the Forces of Sir Jacob Ashley which was a very hot and furious fight our Forces being twice worsted but at last by Gods mighty power and assistance the victory was given to ours at least 200 being slaine on the place 3000 totally routed and at least 2000 Arms taken The particular description of which most famous fight and glorious victory being delivered in a Letter to some Honourable Members of the Parliament by a Gentleman of quality and credit under Sir William Brereton and by their order and authority printed and published I have thought fit for the Readers better content and satisfaction here to insert which was as followeth Honourable Sir ACcording to my engagements I shall give you an account of the proceedings of our Forces in reference to our great Victory at Stow Sir William Brereton having intelligence of Sir Jacob Ashleyes march and being invited by valiant and active Colonell Morgan to follow and set upon him he forthwith marched from Litchfield with about 1000 Horse to Colshell and from thence thorow Warwick Town toward Stratford upon Avon where Sir William had intelligence that Colonell Morgan was returned back as far as Cambden by reason of his intelligence of the crossings and Counter-marches of Sir Jacob Ashley insomuch that Sir William Brereton was forced out of his earnest desire to meet and joyn with Colonell Morgan as was mainly intended to march up and down backward and forward at least 30 miles to overtake him and at last did so and then being joyned we all marched about a mile by which time the Scouts had brought us word that the Enemy was drawne up into a body neer Stow in the Old at which all our Souldiers greatly rejoyced being very desirous to engage Then we marched the whole Army in Battalia and after we had discovered them also standing in Battalia we faced them an houre before we fought both sides waiting and longing for day light Then Sir Will. Brereton and Colonell Morgan agreed without any difference in the drawing up of the Army which was ordered as followes Sir William Brereton led the right Wing of Horse which were those that came with him from Litchfield and the Gloucestershire men were placed in the left Wing Colonell Morgan himself most gallantly led the Van our Word was God be our Guide the Enemies Word was Patrick and George Upon the first charge the Enemy forced our left Wing to a disorderly retreat by over powring them so that the victory at first seemed somwhat doubtfull but Sir William Brereton most bravely going on with his right Wing of Horse and at least 200 Firelocks fiercely charged their left both of Horse and Foot and totally routed them In which brave peece of service undauâ—ted and valiant Major Hauksworth had a principall hand and was a main help utterly torout and put to flight all the left Wing of the Enemy and Colonell Morgan by this time performed his charge so bravely also and with so much courage and good successe that having rallied his men up gallantly againe against the Enemy he put them also to an absolute rout and so they pursued them into Stow killing and wounding many in the Towne both Gentlemen and Officers of quality and in this pursute Major Hawksworth his man as I was credibly enformed took the Lord Ashly prisoner and all his foot Officers were then also taken prisoners and Sir Charles Lucas as was credibly reported was then also taken in the fight but immediatly after rescued by a party of Firelocks of the Enemie and on his rescue fled into the Wood hard by for hoped safety but after the fight our forces searching the wood for straglers found there the said Sir Charles Lucas even he who formerly had done the King great service in the North and was Governour of Berkley Castle but now I say was taken prisoner againe and put into safe custody This most remarkable piece of service being thus successefully performed and Sir Jacob Ashley being taken Captive and wearyed in this fight and being ancient for old-ages silver haires had quite covered over his head and beard the Souldiers brought him a drum to sit and rest himselfe upon who being sate he said as was most credibly enformed unto our Souldiers Gentlemen yee may now sit downe and play for you have done all your worke if you â—all not our among your selves Meaning indeed that now he being thus beaten the King had never another armie in the field in the whole kingdome There were taken in this famous fight and glorious Victorie Sir Jacob Ashley alias Lord Ashley the Generall Sir Charles Lucas Col. Corbet Col. Gerrard Col. Mouldsworth Leivtenant-Colonell Broughton 3. Majors 17. Captaines 16. Leiutenants their Marshall Generall 5. Cornets 11. Ensignes 3. Quartermasters the Chirurgeon and Sir William Vaughans
mercy to the enemy p. 358 Sir Thomas Fairfax advanced to Oxford p. 140 Sir Thomas Fairfaxes Forces or strength before Oxford p. 142 The King flyes from Leicester p. 172 G. SIr John Gell takes Winkfield Mannour p. 14 The Lord Generalls fidelity p. 37 Generall 〈◊〉 brother shot dead p. 59 God a multitude of Parliamentary mercies p. 63 Gratitude of the Parliament to well deservers p. 2â—â— Glamorgan-shire turned to the Parliament p. 317 Germanies Bloud p. 322 Gentry of Cornwall submit to the Parliament p. 383 The Generall Sir Thomas Fairfax honoured by the Parliament with a Jewell p. 170 Goods of Papists apprehended in Long Acre p. 183 H. TWelve brave Horses surprised from the enemy p. 6 Helmesley Castle taken p. 70 Col. Holbornâ—s good-service in the West p. 77. 82. 8. 96 Col. Harsnets Letter touching Abbington p. 93 The happy Harmony of both Houses of Parliament p. 127. 131 Hoptons Army totally routed in the West p. 367 A Day of Humiliation kept for our Forces in the West p. 182 Hopton summoned to come in p. 387 Hopton expects supplyes out of Ireland p. 391 Col. Hooke taken prisoner p. 74 I. LOrd Inchiquins Letter p. 5 An Irish Ship taken p. 44 Irish Rebells to have no quarter p. 36 Integrity of the Parliament p. 293 325 King James his sad and bad mention p. 321 Isle of Rees Bloud p. 323 Irelands Bloud p. 223 Irish Rebels bravely beaten at Sligo p. 342 An Irish Ship taken p. 386 Thirty Irish Rebels put to the sword p. 386 A Jewell of Five hundred pound sent to the noble Generall Sir Thomas Fairfax p. 170 A Jewell of Five hundred pound presented to Gen. Leven p. 203 K. THe King come to Newbery p. 56 Knares borough Castle taken p. 83 The Kings Plot in the North frustrated p. 259 The Kings Horse beaten at Kiddarminster p. 276 Kent Petitions the Parliament about the selfe-denying Ordinance p. 98 The Kings owne Life-guard troope of Horse taken p. 121 Kent rises againe in Rebellion p. 136 The King flyes from Leicester p. 172 The Kings Cabinet of Letters taken at Nasebie p. 175 The King escapes disguisedly out of Oxford p. 414 The Kings comming into the Scots Army p. 417 L. A Letter from the Lord of Inchiquin p. 5 Our Army in danger by a Plot at Leistithiel in the West p. 17 London Ministers Petition against Schismes p. 28 Col. Lambert takes a brave prize p. 44 Levon poole in Lancashire surrendred p. 62 Line apprehends a rich Ship driven into it p. 71 Laughorne Castle in Wales taken p. 71 Lin-Kegis in danger p. 79 The Parliaments gratitude to Major Generall Laughorne p. 278 Loyalty of Gen. Poyntz rewarded p. 281 A Letter touching Abbington p. 93 Letters of the Lord Digbies p. 303 About forty of the King Life-Guard surprised p. 320 Generall Lesley made Commander in chiefe at Newark p. 327 Londons providence and the Parliaments care for the Cities safety p. 337 The Kings Letter to the Parliament p. 345 The Kings Letter for a Treaty of Peace answered p. 347 London Petitions for Church-Government p. 349 Cabinet of Letters taken at Nasebie p. 175 Learning encouraged at Cambridge by the Parliament p. 135 Divers Lords come from Oxford to the Parliament p. 137 Londons Petition touching the Kingdomes sad condition p. 155 A List of Cornish Gentry come in to the Parliament p. 395 The Duke of Lenox and others come in to the Parliament p. 414 A Letter of the Commissioners of Scotland to the Parliament p. 416 Londons preservation from the plague of pestilence a great mercy p. 315 A Letter from the King to the Marquesse of Ormond in Ireland p. 437 Letters from Sir Thomas Fairfax touching Oxford p. 445 The Kings Letters for yeelding up all his Garrisons p. 444 M. COlonell Massies Letter to the Parliament p. 3 Earle of Manchesters advance from Yorke p. 6 Col. Middleton beates the enemy p. 9 Sir Iohn Meldrum beates the enemy in Lancashire p. 10. p. 12. Our Magazine in the West in danger p. 17 Sir Thomas Middleton beates the enemy p. 23 Mountgomery Castle taken p. 23 Mourton-Corbet Castle taken p. 25 Macquire and Macmahone two Irish Rebels apprehended p. 27 Ministers Ordained at London p. 41 Sir Iohn Meldrums noble act touching Sir William Fairfax p. 34 The enemy bravely beaten at Mountgomery Castle p. 30 Col. Massies brave exploit against the enemy p. 34 Monmouth Towne and Castle taken p. 35 Col. Massies just praise p. 44 Sir Thomas Middletons performances in Wales p. 46 Malignants mouthes stopt p. 55. 135. Sir Thomas Middletons brave exploit in Mountgomeryshire p. 77 Montrosse prevailes in Scotland p. 269 Montrosse soundly beaten in Scotland p. 270 Not a moneth weeke or day hardly without a mercy p. 285 Mercy to Malignants intended by the Parliament p. 288 Election of Members of Parliament looked unto p. 293 Maintenance for the New-Modell'd Army p. 97 A passage of providence at Melton-moubury p. 103 Col. Massies brave Victory at the Forrest of Deane p. 116 Col. Massie beates the enemy neare Bristoll p. 129 Col. Massies danger and deliverance p. 144 Sir Iohn Meldrums good service requited p. 152 Col. Mittons Forces good service p. 167 Monethly continued Morning Prayers at London p. 207 The Ministers of two Counties Petition the Parliament for a Church Government to be establisht p. 434 Our mercies Baptized Gad a Multitude p. 63 Ministers of Londons and Westminsters most pious meeting at Sion-Colledge p. 445 N. NEw-Castle taken by the Scots p. 46 Newbery Fight p. 57 Newcastle Castle taken p. 61 Newcastle in free Trading againe p. 69 Our Northerne Forces in good condition p. 259 The fifth of Novembers Commemoration a Thankes-giving Day for the Parliaments continuation p. 315 Novembers seventeenth Queene Elizabeths just Commemoration noted on a speciall occasion p. 323 Newarke besieged by the Scots and their brave beginnings there to tame that enemy p. 327 The prisoners taken at Nasebie-fight brought to London p. 173 Newarke left by our Brethren of Scotland p. 419 O. LOrd Ogleby taken prisoner p. 11 The enemy beaten at Orinskirk p. 11 Ordination of Ministers at London p. 46 Ordinance against Irish Rebels p. 57 Ordinance of self-deniall p. 5 Care for chosing good Officers in London p. 82 Two excellent Ordinances of Parliament p. 312 An Ordinance for the maintenance of the New-modell'd Army p. 97 Oxford Lords come in to the Parliament p. 137 Oxford besieged by the Gen. Sir Thomas Fairfax p. 140 Master Occonnelly rewarded for his discovery of the desperate plot in Ireland p. 152 Oxford surrendred the manner how p. 446 P. A Plot upon our Magazine in the West p. 17 The Parliaments promptitude to the worke of Reformation p. 29 A Plot against the Parliaments Army in the West p. 37 Plottings of the Royalists to cousen the Kingdome p. 37 Plimouth mens admirable courage p. 38 A brave prize taken at Poole p. 44 More Plots of the enemy discovered p. 78
good service And the zeale of the Kentish Gentry for the good of the Kingdom And in the last not least most famous defeat given to the fierce and furious Royalists at Compton House And the good service of the Northampton forces now last related And now then tell mee good Reader whether England hath not just cause in admiration and adoration of our English Israels great and glorious Shepherd who neither slumbers nor sleeps in most happy though most unholy sinfull and ungratefull Englands constant conservation to sing and say with that Princely Prophet King David Thou art O Lord our God more glorious and excellent than the mountains of prey The stout hearted are spoyled they have slept their sleep and none of the men of might have found their hands Surely therefore even the wrath of man shall praise thee and the remainder of his fury shalt thou restrain But now to goe on AND now in the entrance into the first observation of this Moneth of Februaries wonder of the Burning Bush not consumed I shall begin with the information of a very pretty peice of service performed by some of the Parliaments Forces neer Melton Mowberry which was thus A party of Horse from Beaver Castle came suddenly and secretly to assault some of our Leicestershire Forces who were making a Garrison at Sir Erasmus de la Fountains House neer Melton aforesaid with a full intent and hope to have surprised them but were happily frustrated of their expectation For the Parliaments forces having notice of the Enemies approach they valiantly repulsed them took and slew about 8 of them and during the time of the skirmish some of our nimble Souldiers running hastily to supply the want of powder unawares set one or 2 barrels of powder on fire which suddenly blew up one part of Sir Erasmus his House and did very little other hurt But see the wise and good providence of God who turned this little losse into a farre greater gain and benefit for by this means at the least 300 pounds worth of Plate and many good Armes were discovered which had before been hid in the ground and thus made good prize to bee employed for the Parliaments service and benefit And about the same time wee were also certainly informed by Letters out of Leicestershire that a party from Ashbey de la Zoneb came to Cole-Orton intending to have surprized our men there and to have plundered the Town but they mist of their aim and in the attempt lost above 70 or 80 of their horse Very good helps to carry on the businesse this Winter season And about the 6 of this instant February wee received credible intelligence out of Wales that Colonell Gerard with all the strength hee could raise at that time came against Cardigan Castle which hee understood was but meanly provided of necessaries and therefore besieged it whereof valiant Colonell Jones was then Governour Gerard by a stratagem having got into the Town brake down the Bridge between it and Pembrokeshire which was neer the Town and Castle of Cardigan that so no releife might come to them and heerupon hee presently by a Trumpeter sent a summons to the Castle But courageous Colonell Jones returned an answer to this effect That hee had in the Castle 300 raw hides and when all other necessaries failed they would eate them and when they were spent hee and his Souldiers would come forth and fight for their lives and neither give nor take quarter and in the interim would keep the Castle In which mean time the brave Colonell sent to renowned Colonell Laughorn to come to his releif which hee promised and did but when this valiant Colonell came to the Bridge hee found it broken down as aforesaid which was some impediment to his desire but yet like an invincible Caesar resolving Aut viam invenire aut facere with Fagots boards and such like helps hee made away to passe over the River and whiles hee was getting over hee caused an Arrow to bee shot into the Castle with a Letter in it to give them notice that hee was come and so presently hee fell upon the Enemy on one side and Colonell Jones issuing out of the Castle on the other side they soon gave Gerard enough to doe and put Gerard and all his forces to a totall rout took and slew 350 of them 200 being found dead on the place they took also 600 Armes 150 prisoners among whom were divers Officers and men of quality and 4 brasse peices of Ordinance Much about this foresaid time was that great bluster of a Parturiunt montes nascitur ridiculus mus as indeed at last it proved I mean the Treaty of Peace at Vxbridge In which interim a Petition was contrived by some mischeivous Malignants of the County of Buckingham wherin one Sir John Laurence of the same County was a great stickler and was afterwards for it sent for to London and committed to safe custody Which Petition was intended to bee presented to the Parliament Commissioners at Vxbridge in the very midst of the time of their Treaty the effect of this Petition was That Religion might bee established in this Kingdom as in the purest times which indeed were very impure especially in point of Discipline which was meer Popish of Queen Elizabeth That thus these malignant Petitioners might the more subtilly and slily incense the other Popish or Atheisticall Oxonian Commissioners and the whole Malignant party the apparent and known Enemies to the truely intended pure Reformation of Religion and so to make this plot to conduce much to the breaking off of this Treaty and that upon the dissolution thereof the King and his party might with the better colour declare and publish to the world though most falsly that the Parliament was the only cause of the annihilating of this Treaty and so consequently Enemies to Peace and thus bring an universall odium upon the Parliament and their party whose unsetled and unstable spirits wholely addicted to faction and novelties would not admit of any thing but their own pretended Reformation but rather chose the continuance and increase of Warre and bloodshed And for the more full and clear assurance forsooth of this their most foule and false accusation and indeed for the firmer corroborating of this their most dangerous and devillish plot and design they at Oxford had already before hand drawn up a Full Declaration and translated it into severall Languages that thus as soon as they had treated as farre as they had plotted and preintended they might speedily disperse those their foresaid Declarations both over all our 3 Kingdomes and also into all other Forrain parts to prepossesse them with those their most grosse and abominable untruths and so delude them and all ours by most falsly laying the cause of the breach of this on their side meer mock-Treaty upon the innocent Parliament Thus hoping I say by these