General Cromwell continued 97. is Victorious at Ipslcy bridge 98. Takes Blechingdon house ib. Routs the Club-men 107. Takes the Devises 108. Takes Langford House ibid. Takes Winchester ibid. Orderd to suppress Poyer Lang borne 144. Takes Pomfret Castle 148. Goes against Hambleton 148. Enters Scotland 164. Takes Carlile and Barwick 165. Returns from Scotland ibid Cornet Joice seazes the King 118 Committee of Darby House 137 Chepstow Castle surprized for the King 140. retaken 145 Colchester surrendred 158 Commissioners goe to the Isle of Wight 160 City in danger 165 Countryes Complaint of free quarter ibid Charge against the King 173 D. Dutch Ambassadour arrives in England 10 Digby accuses Buckingham 12 Sir Dudly Digs sent to the Tower 13 Divers Members of the Commons House Committed 24 Dispute about Ship-money 31 Dutch Ambassadour Treats of a Match betwixt the Kings Eldest Daughter and the Prince of Orange 47 Drums beaten up in London 71 Dutch Ambassadour mediates for a peace 94 Sir Lewis Dives took Waymouth for the King 96 Drums beaten up in Colchester for the King 142 E. Englands Coasts Infested by Pirates 28 England happy if ever 31 Episcopacy turnd out of Scotland Earle of Haddington blowne up 42 English Nobility petition the King ibid. Earle of Strafford sequestred the House 45. Triall in Westminster Hall 48. His speech at his Execution 52 Earle of Warwick gets possessiof the Navy 65 Earle of Bedford Generall of the Horse for the Parliament 71 Essex Chiefe Randevouz at Northampton 75. Befieges Reading 81. Relieves Glocester 87. Surprizes Cirencester 88. Laid aside 97. His death and buriall 112 Edg-Hill Battell 77 Earl of Northumber land made Governour of the Kings Children 97 Essex men Petition for a personall Treaty 143. Secure the Committee men 146 Ewers made Governour of the Isle of Wight 167 F. French King requires Ayd 13 The French require satisfaction 15 Felton stabs Buckingham 19 He is araign'd and Executed 20 The Fleete sets forth from Porchmouth ibid. A Fleete set out to scoure the Seas 31 Five Members Impeacht 45 Lord Fairfax and his Sonne takes York 94 Sir Thomas Fairfax made Generall 97. Relieves Taunton 99. Takes Bostoll house 101. and Gaunt house ibid. Takes Leicester 104. Relieves Taunton 105. Takes Bridgewater 106. Takes Bath ibid. Takes Sherburne Castle by Storme 107. Takes Bristoll ibid. Takes Exeter 108. and Dartmouth ibid. Takes Tiverton ibid. Receiv'd in state at Leicester 116. Enters the City of London 123. Goes into Kent 146. into Essex 153. Sends a Letter concerning Colchester 159. Comes to London 168 Lord Francis kild 147 G. Gundamore Ambassadour for England 2 Pope Gregory dies 3 Gentlemen of the Innes of Court their maske 28 Sir Richard Gurney sent to the Tower 72 Goring Lands at Newcastle 86 Great seale broken 112 Glenham secures Carlile for the King 148 H. Mr. Hollis his Insolency in the House 22 Mr. Hollis Accuseth the Earle of Strafford 45 Sir John Hotham denies the Kings entrance into Hull 65 Sir John Hotham his son declares for the King 83. both seazed prisoners 84. beheaded 96 Hopton in the West for the King 77. is Victorious in the West 100 Horton Routs the Welsh 144 Hambleton made Generall of the Scots Army 144 Enters England 148. is beaten 154 Holland Routed and fled 147 Major Huntington leaves the Army 150 I. King James Inclind to peace 2. His speech to the Parliament 3. His death and Character 5. Buriall 6 James Duke of York born 28 Dr. Juxon Bishop of London made Lord Treasurer 30 Irish Rebellion brake out 55 Innes of Court Gentlemen tender their service to the King 60 Judge Jenkins sentence at the Bar of the House 138 Insurrections in Cornwall 14◠Judges displac't 171 Bishop Juxon order'd to attend the King ibid. K. The Kingdome big with Expectation of Parliament 44 King and Queen meet at Edghill 84 Kentish Insurrection 145 Muster on Black heath 146 L. LONDON visited with the plague 7 Dr. Layton sentenc't 26 Bishop Laud made Archbishop of Canterbury 28. He gave order to Romove the Communion Table 31 Revives the Ancient Ceremonies of the Church 39 is assaulted by the multitude 40. Accas'd by the Commons 46. Condemn'd and Executed 95 Lessly defeats the English 41 Lords House complaine of breach of priviledge 45 Their Votes concerning the King 170 Lord Keeper Littleton goes after the Seale to the King 68 Lindsey General for the King 75 Loves unadvised Expression 96 Langdale Routs the Lincolashire Horse 96. He is defeated 109. Rayses forces in the North. 145 Lawhorne declares for the King 140 Sir Charles Lucas for the King 147. is shot to death 158 and Sir George Lisle ibid. M. Montrosse discernes the deceit of the Scots 44 Members of the Commons House made long speeches 45 Members goe to the King at York 67 Massey made Governour of Glocester 76. Summons Malborough 92 Prince Maurice besieges Exeter 85. Takes Evisham by storme 100 Marston More fight 94 Members of the Commons House Impeacht 120. They discharge themselves 121 Massey flies into Holland 123 Mayor and Aldermen of London Impeacht of high trea son 123 Mutiny at Bury 140 Maidston Retaken 146 Members secluded the House 168 N. Northerne Counties suffer by the Scots 46 Earle of Newcastle in the North. 80 Newbery Battell 88 Earle of Northampton Routs the Northampton Horse 97 Naseby Battell 103 Newcastle and Hull sortified 141 O. Overtures of a Match with France 4 Ormond sends over forces for the King 88 Oxford besieged 101. more streightned 109. Surrendred 111 Sir John Owen Rayses forces for the King 147 P. Parliament require an account of the Princes journey into Spaine 4. Break off the Match ibid. Parliament petition concerning Religion and Grievances 9. They Article against Buckingham 13. The third Parliament supply the Kings wants 18. Remonstrate against Buckingham 19. They dissolve themselves 23. Parliament in Aprill 1640. 29. dissolved 40. Another Parliament in November 1640. 43. Long Parliament began 44 Relieve distressed Ministers 45. discharge Burton Prin and Bastwick ibid. Petition for a Guard 56. Petition for the Militia 61. Send a Message to the Queen 62. Order the Rigging of the Navy 63. setling the Militia ib. Petition the Magazine at Hull be brought to London 64. Issue out Commissions for the Militia 67. Petition the King 68. Order bringing in money and plate 69. Vote an Army to be raised 70. declare against the Commission of Aray 72. Vote the Counties to associate 76. solicite the Scots 79. Vote an Assembly of Divines 83. a new great Seale ibid. Articles of high treason against the Queen 84. detaine the King and Queens Revenue ibid. Require the assistance of Scotland 87. Vote it Treason for any Member to desert the House 92. make proclamation concerning the King 110. Vote the King to Warwick Castle ibid. send Commissioners to Newcastle 111 Vote Presbytery to be set led 112. Vote 400000 l. for the Scots ibid. Vote the Confession of Faith 113. Vote the King to come to Holmbey 114. Vote the disbanding of the Army 117. Vote the City be put in a posture of defence 121 Vote Propositions be sent to the King 124. Votes cōcerning the Kings flight 139. Vote a personall Treaty 132. send Commissioners to Scotland 134. Votes for non-addresses 136. Lords consent to non addresses 137. Null the Votes for non-addresses 142. Vote the Scots entring England Enemies 149. Vote the King to come within twenty miles of London ibid. Nominate the Isle of Wight for a Treaty ibid. Null the Votes for non addresses 151. Appoint Commissioners to Treat 159. sit all day and night 168. The remainder of the House continue sitting 169. Null the Vote for Concessions 170. Vote a Charge against the King ibid. The Priests Impose a penance on the Queen 14 Petition of Right 18 Proclamation against Papists 27 Prince Charles borne and dieth 24 Prince Charles his birth 25 Goes for Scille 109 Peace betwixt England and Spaine 26 Princess Mary borne 27 St. Pauls Church began to be Repaired ibid Old Par brought to London 30 Prince Elector comes to London ibid Princess Elizabeth borne ibid Princess Anne borne 32 Prin Bastwick and Burton sentenc't Prince Henry borne 41 Alderman Penington petitions against Episcopacy 46 Princess Mary married to the Prince of Orange 50 Prince Rupert Prince Maurice arrives 74 Plot for betraying London 82 Plot for betraying Bristoll ib. Proclamation against the Covenant 88 Pomfret Castle taken 106 Prince Maurice for the Hague 112 Pendennis Castle surrendred ibid Poyer and Powell declare for the King 140 Pomfret Castle surpris'd 147 Surrender Pembrooke Castle 148 Proclamation for witnesses against the King 171 Q. Queen arrives in England 7 Queen-Mother comes for England 36 Queen arrives from Holland 81 Queen goes for France 91 R. Rumors of a plaister applyed to King James his wrist 5 Rotchell besieg'd 17 Prince Rupert arrives in England 74. Summons Glocester 82. Besieges Litchfield 83. Routs the Buckingham forces 84. Besieges Bristoll 85. takes Leicester by storme 100. goes for France 112 Ragland Castle surrendred 112 Representative orderd 169 S. The Treaty of the Spanish Mateh dissolvd 4 Statutes against Recusants 11 Ship-money 29 The Scots hatch mischiefe 30 Scotch Service-book revisd 32 Scots petition against the Common prayer-book 34. They Arme 35. Their Propositions 43. a cessation 44 Their deceir 45. Scots Army enter England 90. Besiege Newwark 107. Carry the King to Newcastle 111 desire the King to take the Covenant 192. Scots unreasonable demands 112. Their threatning 113. quit Newcastle 116. are sensible of the Kings imprisonment 126. Letter to the Parliament 132. raise an Army for the King 141. Scots Declaration 143 Star-Chamber Voted down 53 Scarborough Castle taken 106 Sherburne Castle taken 107 Surrey petition for a personall Treaty 144 Sea-men Revolt from Warwick 146 Scarborough Castle for the King 150 T. Tearme at Reading 11 Tunnage and poundage complain'd of 21 Tumults at Westminster 50 Tumult in the Isle of Wight 135 Tinmouth Castle revolts and retaken 150 Treaty in the Isle of Wight 161 V. An Uproare in Edenborough at the Reading of the Common-prayer-book 33 Uxbridge Treaty 96 W. Bishop Wren accus'd by the Commons 26 Secretary Windebank flies ibid Worcester secur'd for the King 75 Winchester for the Parliament 81 Lord Wilmot defeats Waller in the West 85 Waller takes A undell Castle 89.
October and in his speech made an ample illustration of his concessions to the petition of right which by some was accounted a great failing And now a 3d Fleet is reasdy at Portsmouth for the releif of Rotchel The Duke was very diligent in preparation when on the 23 of August 1628. the Duke having prepared himselfe to wait on the King who made that in his progresse cal'd for his breakfast the Duke comes downe from his chamber to a lower parlour where taking leave of Sir Tho. Frier one of his Colonels Just as he was going in one Felton stabd him to the heart with a knife which the Duke took out but the effusion of the blood was so great that he died instantly the Earl of Cleveland and others that were within hearing reported that the murtherer seconded his blow with these words The Lord have mercy upon thy soul The murtherer imediatly went into the Kitchin the report throughout the house was wher 's the murtherer which he misconstrued her 's the murtherer suddenly starting cried I am he who was imediatly secured and hardly escaped the fury of the servants The King was at his devotion when the news was brought who was not in the least startled at it The commons rejoice at it and by this means hoped of a freer and more permanent correspondency betwixt the King and people which the event suddenly shewed The Dukes body was inter'd the 25 of September at Westminster at the charge of his Executors Felton was arraigned at the Kings bench-bar who upon examination confest That the only motive that induced him to the fact was the late Remonstrance of the Commons and that he could not sacrifice his life to a nobler cause then by delivering his Country from so great an enemy He being found guilty was hanged at Tiburne and his body afterwards sent to Portsmouth to be hanged in Chaines This tragicke act nothing hindred the Fleets motion which by the personal industry care of the King set fail from Portsmouth the 8 of September 1628. the Earl of Linsey being Admiral and being arived at the mouth of the haven found that monstrous Boone and Baracado finished which was designed by Cardinal Ritchlew a cross wind suddenly arose beat them back with great confusion which the Rotchellers beholding from the bulwarks imediately set open the gates and submitted themselves wholly to the King who entred the 8 of October and found onely four thousand remaining of twenty two thousand the Fleet upon the news returned home safe A Proclamation was proclaimed against Papists The 20 of October the Parliament met divers complaints and petitions were exhibited touching the seising of marchants goods for Tunnage and Poundage The King had notice of it summons them to the banquetting house and thus speaks The occasion of that meeting was a complaint made in the lower House for staying some merchants goods for denying Tunnage and Poundage which difference might be soon decided were his words and actions rightly understood for if he did not take these duties as appendixes to his hereditary prerogative and had declared he chalenged them not of right and onely desired to enjoy them by the gift of his people why did they not passe the Bill as they promised to him to clear his by-past actions and future proceedings especially in this his time of so great necessity Therefore he did now expect they should make good what they promised and put an end to all questions emergent to their delay Two Committees were appointed one for Religion the other for civil affairs that for Religion report that upon due inspection they find it in a very tottering and declining condition The other report that many marchants had had their goods seised for not paying the customes of Tunnage and Poundage being then against the Petition of Right and priviledge of Parliament for which Sr Jo. Worsham M. Daws M. Carmarthen Farmers of the Customes were required to give an account The King intervenes and tels the Parliament that what they did was as men addicted to his command neither were they commissionated to take it as a due debt but he presumed the Parliament would performe their large professions and grant it by bill They replyed the Farmers did it without warrant the warrant being only to levy and collect not to seize for the Bill they desired his pardon being to insist on matters of Religion first The King requests them to forbeare prosecuting these men and intimated that what they did was by his warrant The House in great discontent adjourned for some few dayes and being met again they resolved upon a Remonstrance which the Speaker refusing to read and offering to rise Mr. Hollis held him and swore he should fit there so long as they pleased which not prevailing Mr. Hollis read these ensuing Articles as the Protestation of the House 1. Whosoever should bring in Innovation of Religion or by favour seek to introduce Popery or Arminianism or other opinions disagreeing from the true and orthodox Church shall be reputed a Capitall enemy to the Kingdome and Common wealth 2. Whosoever shall councell or advise the taking and levying the subsidies of Tunnage and Poundage not being granted by Parliament or shall be an actor or instrument therein shall be reputed a Caitall enemy to this Common-wealth 3. If any man shall voluntarily yeild or pay the said Subsidies of Tunnage and Poundage not being granted by Parliament he shall be reputed a beirayer of the Liberties-of England and an enemy to the Common-wealth At which the House gave a great shout The King advised of it sent the Usher of the blacke rod to dissolve the Parliament who would not be admitted Sir Miles Hobert lockt the door The King incensed at their contempt sent for the Captain of the Pensioners and the Guard to force a passage the members fearing the issue slunk away The King went presently into the House of Lords and delivered his mind as followeth My Lords I never came here upon so unpleasing an occasion it-being the dissolution of a Parliament therefore you may have some cause to wonder why I should not rather choose to doe this by Commission it being a generall Maxim of Kings to leave harsh commands to their Ministers themselves onely Executing pleasing things yet considering that Justice consists as well in reward and praise of vertue as punishment of vice I thought it necessary to come here to day to declare to you and all the world that it was meerely the undutifull and seditious carriage of the Lower House that hath made the dissolution of this Parliament and you my Lords are so far from being causes of it that I take as much comfort in your dutifull demeanour as I am justly distasted with their proceedings yet to avoyd mistakings Let me tell you that it is so far from me to adjudge all that House guilty that I know there are many there as dutifull subjects as any in the World it being but
that for which he was condemned acquitting all the world and desired God to forgive them wishing presperity and happinesse to the Kingdome and desired they would seriously consider whether the Reformation of a Kingdome should be written in Letters of blood much fearing they were in the wrong way professing he died a true sonne of the Church of England wherein he was borne and in which he was bred addressing himselfe to his brother Sir George Wentworth desired to be remembred to his Wife and Children willing him to Charge his Son never to meddle with the patrimony of the Church for it would prove a Canker to his estate and after a short time spent in prayer he submitted his neck to the Block which was struck off by the Executioner at one low There was at that time a discovery made of diverse persons that had endeavour'd the Earles escape out of the Tower diverse Gentlemen of worth were engaged in it but the timely discovery prevented its execution Upon which the House oderd some Lords to be assistant to the Lievtenant of the Tower for the safety of the City Severall Great persons were displaced as The Earle of Essex made Lord Chamberlain in the roome of Pembroke The Marquesse of Hartford Governour of the Prince in the roome of the Earle of Newcastle Dr Juxon Lord Treasurer resigned his Office to five Commissioners The Lord Cottington Master of the Wards was displaced and the Office conferd on the Lord Say In May last the Parliament to engage the people to stick close to them framed an Oath or Protestation which was by them taken and sent through England to be taken by the people The Parliament being secured for their everlasting sitting began to consider of the raising of moneys for the payment and disbanding of the two Armies much Plate was melted downe and the Earle of Holland was by joynt consent of King and Parliament order'd to goe downe as Generall to disband the English Army The House in February following Voted 300000 l. for the Scots and dayes of payment to be appointed For the Levying of this money a Bill was brought into the House for Pole-money Viz. a Duke 100 l. a Marquesse 80 l. Earles 60 l. Vicounts and Baronets 40 l. Knights of the Bath 30 l. Knights Bachelours 20. l. Esquires 10 l. every Gentleman able to expend 100 l per annum 5 l. and so every one according to their degree no person exempted every Head paid six pence which Bill with two other were offerd to the King one for putting downe the Star-Chamber another for putting downe the high Commission at which the King was a little startled The House Voted he should signe all or none which notwithstanding he past that for Pole-money and tooke time for the other two and not long after with much Importunity he past them also Sir Thomas Roe was sent in the quality of an Ambassadour to the Emperour to solicite the restoration of the Prince Elector which after much stay and nothing effected he returnes The Parliament considering the heavy burdens of the Northern Counties Order 100000 l. part of the 300000 l. to be paid to the Scots and in August following both Armies were quietly disbanded and departed to their own homes Bishop Wren is committed to the Tower for misdemeanors amounting to treason The Judges that gave their opinion for Ship-money are questioned and severall Charges drawne up against them The King having Inform'd the House of his resolutions to take a Journey to Scotland on the tenth of August set forward out of London towards Scotland but that very Morning came to the House and past diverse Bills and likewise sign'd a Commission for the passing of Bills in his absence the Commissioners appointed were the Lord Keeper the Lord Privy Seale Marquesse of Hartford Earle of Lindsey Earle of Essex Earle of Dorcet Earle of Bath He likewise signed another Bill constituting the Earle of Essex Generall of all the Forces on this side Trent by which he had power in case of necessity to Levy an Army The Parliament adjourned from the eight of September till the 20 of October and appointed a standing Committee of fifty Members to act in the Intervall The Parliament being adjourn'd and the King gone to Scotland every one tooke advantage to vent the humour of his own braine many using Irreverend behaviour during the time of divine service many outrages and riots were committed against Clergy-men and the Prelaticall party as they cald them strange and unheard-of practices were used as tub-preaching and that openly in the streets which gave occasion to many sober minded men to thinke evill of the Parliament as though it was their contrivance During the Kings being in Scotland a Letter was sent from the English-Committee in Scotland to the standing Committee at Westminster discovering a plot against the lives of Marquesse Hamilton and others the greatest Peeres in Scotland the Earle of Craford and others being the Conspirators which occasioned the standing Committee to prevent the like here to appoint strong guards in severall parts of the City and so to continue till the next meeting of both Houses Before the King return'd from Scotland about the end of October 1641. brake out the most barbarous and inhumane Rebellion in Ireland that ever was heard of in any age of the world The Innocent Protestants turn'd out of their estates and above two hundred thousand persons men women and children most barbarously and cruelly murdered But we will leave Ireland weltring in her blood and look home Where in November 1641. we find the King return'd from Scotland and was by the City of London feasted and in Great State conducted to Hampton Court with much seeming expressions of Joy some few dayes after the King Invites the Aldermen and principall Citizens to Hampton Court where they were sumptuously feasted and diverse Aldermen were Knighted During the Kings residing at Hampton Court the Commons present the King a Remonstrance of the state of the Kingdome with a large recitall of all the Grievances and oppressions that the people had groaned under since the beginning of his Raigne Upon which within few dayes the King published a Declaration in answer to their Remonstrance And now began visibly to appeare the sad breach betwixt the King and his Parliament which did daily increase untill the Kingdome was involved in a sad war Great endeavours are used to stir up the Common people with a dislike of the Kings actions to which purpose freedome was given to every party without contradiction to write and publish many bitter and Invective Pamphlets against the Bishops and their Government and all the ill actions of the Kings Ministers were laid upon him and not content with that they came downe in Great multitudes to Westminster and by the way gave uncivill and threatning Language to diverse Gentlemen at Whitehall-Gate Which caused the King to send to the Lord Major to summon a Common Councell to receive his
pleasure which by the Chancelour of the Dutchy he declares his utter dislike of the numerous multitude coming in that rude manner and desires care may be taken to prevent the like for the future assuring them of his care and protection And the same day the King sent to the City the Commons Petition for a Guard to defend them from a malignant party now prevalent which Petition the King denied promising them in the word of a King That his care for their security should be as great as for his wife and children and if that wauld not serve their turne he would appoint a Guard of such as he would be answerable to God for Proclamation was made against the Irish Rebells and the King desires the two Houses to enter into Debate concerning reliefe and proposes that 10000 Volunteers be raised and sent over if the Commons will pay them The King being inform'd of a designe carried on by diverse Members of the House of Commons which held Intelligence with the Scots endeavouring to subvert his Authority and the better to carry on their designes countenanced the Tumults in the City causes Sir William Killigrew and Sir William Fleming to goe to the Chambers and Studies of diverse Members of the House of Commons to seale up their Trunkes and to seize on their papers as the Lord Kimbolton Mr Pim Mr Hamden Mr Deuzill Hollis Sir Arthur Haselrig and Mr Stroud but none of their persons could be met with they presently make report to the House who immediatly Vote it a breach of the priviledge of Parliament and that it shall be lawfull to make resistance and to require the ayde of a Constable to keepe such persons endeavouring to seize on any member till the further pleasure of the House On the third of June the King sent his Atturney Sir Edward Herbert to demand the five Members and sent a Sergeant at Armes to charge them with Articles of high treason and with them the Lord Mandevill the Earle of Manchesters second son which Articles were these 1. They endeavoured to subvort the Government to deprive the King of his Legall power to place on the subjects an Arbitrary and tyrannicall Power 2. They had endeavoured by foule aspersions upon his Majesties Government to alienate the affections of his people from him 3. That they endeavoured to draw his Army from his obedience to side with them in traiterous designes 4. That they traiterously invited and encouraged a forraine Power to invade his Majesties Kingdome of England 5. That they had traiterously endeavoured to subvert the very rights and beings of Parliaments 6. That they had endeavoured by force and terrour to compell the Parliament to joyne with them in their traiterous designes and to that end have actually raysed and countenanced tumults against the King and Parliament 7. That they traiterously conspir'd to Levy and actually have Levied war against the King The 4th of January 1641. The King attended with diverse Gentlemen came to the House-door he onely enter'd the House of Commons seating himselfe in the Speakers Chaire demands five Members of that House to be delivered to him Their names were Sir Arthur Haselrig Mr. Denzill Hollis Mr. Pim Mr. Hamden Mr. Stroud The King finding they were not there for they were absent by appointment of the House rises from the Speakers Chaire and tells them he was very sorry for that occasion and that no King ever was nor should be more carefull to preserve the priviledges of Parliament then he should be that those five Members were dangerous men he protested in the word of a King that he never intended any force but to proceed against them in a Legall way he expected they would send them so soone as they came into the House The King is no sooner gone out of the House but they are in a great confusion crying out Priviledge priviledge and the next day Voted the Kings coming to the House a breach of the priviledge of Parliament The King made Proclamation the next day for their apprehension which the day following the Commons Voted illegall and scandalous The day after he had been at the House be went in his Coach to London being inform'd they were fled thiher where all the way as he went the Citizens and others flock'd about his Coach desiring him not to Infringe the priviledge of Parliament Upon his returne one Walker flung into the Kings Coach a seditious pamphlet entituled To your Tents O Israel for which he was apprehended The Gentlemen of the Inns of Court offered their service to the King as a Guard a smal Court of Guard is built at White-Hall-Gate and some Gentlemen entertained Within two dayes after a great multitude came out of London in their accustomed manner to Petition against Bishops and in their passage by White-Hall using menacing tearmes which the Gentlemen not brooking some small mischiefe was done At Westminster they offered violence to diverse Bishops which caus'd 14 of them to draw up a Protest against the proceedings of the House The Commons resent it ill and Vote them Guilty of High Treason The City Petition the King concerning the putting of persons of Honour out of the Tower and placing others in their roomes and of the Great preparations in the Tower of the fortifying White-Hall and withall desire that the five Members may not be restrain'd nor proceeded against but by consent of the House to all which his Majesty gave an answer Two thousand Petitioners came out of Buckingham-shire to Petition the King in the behalfe of Mr. Hamden their Country-man desiring that he and the rest of the five Members may injoy the Priviledges of Parliament which moved the King to send to the Parliament that for the present he would wave his proceedings against the five Members The multitude not being content with the destruction of Bishops they openly demand the Liturgy of the Church to be abolished condemning the use of all set-formes of prayer The Pulpits every where sounded aloud that now was the time that the Israelites should plunder the Egyptians and that the Just should wash their footsteps in the blood of the ungodly and publickly exhorted the people to take up armes against the Kings Evill Councell as they calld it and to destroy all such as joyned with them and to this effect these following Texts of Scripture were pressed by the zealous Ministers Luke 19.27 Those mine enemies that would not that I should Raigne over them bring hither and slay before me Judges 5.23 Curse ye Meroz Curse ye bitterly the Inhabitants thereof because they came not to help the Lord against the Mighty Jer. 48.10 Cursed be he that doth the work of the Lord deceitfully and cursed be he that keepeth back his sword from blood Thus there was no way for Reformation in these mens accounts but to pluck up and to destroy and all for the Love of God and for the advancement of the Kingdome of Jesus Christ The great multitudes still
with part of the Army marches Westward who after he had soundly batterd the Castle at the Devizes forc't it to be surrendred and not many dayes after he comes before Winchester and summons it which was on honourable Conditions surrenderd He immediately marches to Basing-House which for a time had been besieged but to no purpose and having summon'd it he on refusall resolv'd to storme it by which meanes he got it The General was now before Tiverton and had raised severall Batteries by which meanes he gained the Towne In October 1645. langford-Langford-House was delivered up to Lieutenant General Cromwell The General approaches neere Exceter October 20. 1645. summons it and received a flat deniall it was for sometime besieged but by reason the King had a body moving up down it was twice deserted onely a party left to surround it upon the Armies returne from the West after it was storm'd was delivered up on Articles He likewise summons Dartmouth on refusall took it by storme A great defeate was given to Hopton at Torrington who not long after was forced to disband his Army in the West Sir Marmaduke Langdale received a great defeate neare Sherburne In March Ashbe de la zouch was surrendred to the Parliaments forces In the same Moneth Prince Charles set saile for Scilly with diverse Lords and Gentlemen Other Garrisons as Westchester Barnstable St Michaels Mount Ruthen Castle Woodstock together with diverse other Garrisons were delivered up to the Parliament The Scots Army was at that time besieging New-wark with the assistance of some York-shire Horse There was not at that time a Towne or Castle in England but what was either besieged or blockt up by the Parliaments forces The Commons Vote the Committee of darby-Darby-House to take care to besiege Oxford and accordingly the Generall having secured the West returnes with intent to besiege it which at that time was the Kings Royall seate The King Causes a Muster of Horse which in all amounted to 1100 Horse and Dragoones great care is taken to make good the Workes and to repaire what ever is amisse The Towne being besieged the King offers to come to the two Houses upon assurance of the safety of his person and to advise with them for the good and safety of the Kingdome Provided all that have adhered to his Majesty may have Liberty to goe to their own homes in safety their sequestrations to be taken off upon these conditions his Majesty is willing to disband all his Souldiers and dismantle his Garrisons passe an act of oblivion and free pardon to all These Propositions the Parliament would by no meanes consent unto they having him at that advantage The King seeing no hopes on the 27 of Aprill 1646. in disguise came out of Oxford attended by Mr John Ashburnham and one more severall conjectures past which way he should goe The Parliament being mis-inform'd that he was come to London Order that Proclamation be made that whosoever shall conceale his Majesty shall dye as a traytor and forfeit his estate On the sixt of May 1646. His Majesty came to the Scots Army and had cast himselfe upon them which occasioned the Scotch Commissioners to write to the Parliament that contrary to their expectation the King was come to their Army ingaging to stand for the Interest of the Kingdome The Commons Vote that his Majesties person be disposed of as both Houses shall desire and direct and that he be sent to Warwick Castle Upon the Kings desire to the Governour Newark was deliver'd up to the English The Scots marcht away to Rippon with the King The Parliament seeing the King was got into the Scots possession sent a Letter to the Prince of Wales then in Gersie to invite him to come to London with promise of Honour and safety but he durst not venter The siege before Oxford being more close then formerly the Generall sent a summons to Sir Thomas Glenham the Governour who sent a civill answer with a request that Sir John Minson and Mr Philip Warwick may informe his Excellency in order to a Treaty and accordingly on Articles it was surrendred on Honourable tearmes The 19 of May the Scots Army came with the King to Newcastle the reason of their retreating Northward was for feare that Sir Thomas Fairfax should have falne on them and compeld them to deliver up the King A great dispute was at Newcastle betwixt the King and Mr Alexander Henderson which was since published Divers Propositions were presented to the King by the Commissioners from the Parliament who were the Earle of Pembrooke Earle of Suffolke Sir Walter Earle Sir John Ipsley Mr Goodwin and Mr Robinson who came to Newcastle the 27 of July and ordered to return in ten dayes the next day the Propositions were presented and his Majesty promised an answer within the time but withall told them that if they had not power to treate they might as well have sent a Trumpet at the reading of the Propositions his Majesty protested he would never give away his Crowne and Militia and further told Mr Marshall he could not in Conscience signe some things therein required His Majesty gave the Commissioners in a Paper which not being satisfactory they returne to London The Scots likewise petition him to take the Covenant and likewise they set out a Declaration of their Intentions for the good of both Kingdomes Litchsield Worcester and Wallingford were all deliver'd on Articles In July 1646. Prince Rupert went for France and Prince Maurice for the Hague where they both safely arrived The Duke of York came for London and was Honourably received by the Nobility His Majesty wrote four times to Montrosse at the Scots Commissioners request to lay downe his Armes In August 1646. the Commons order the Presbytenan Government to be settled in London In the same Moneth the Commons caused the Great Seale to be broken in the Lords House The 14 of September 1646. dyed the Noble Earle of Essex of an Appoplexie a man truly faithfull to the Interest of his Country The House having respect to his former service Voted 3000 l. to be given toward his funerall Mr. Vines preached his funerall Sermon he was Honourably attended to his Grave not without much Lamentation Upon the Kings refusall of the Propositions the Scots sent Commissioners to the Parliament to desire an agreement betwixt them Pendennis and Ragland Castle are in August surrendred The Scots Commissioners demand 500000 l. upon the payment of which they offer to deliver up the King And accordingly it was Voted by the House to deliver 200000 l. then borrowed of the Citizens of London and raised out of the saile of the Bishops Lands together with the assistance of the Excize and 200000 l. more secured to them to be payd at severall times October the 8th 1646. the House Votes to every Member 1000 l. a piece in recompence of their Good service and that so many as are Lawyers may have Liberty to plead within the
was laid aside Money being provided on the 14 of September the Commissioners set forward for the Isle of Wight forty dayes was the time limited his Majesty desir'd that the first day on which nothing was performed but visits might not be reckoned for one of the forty The next day the Personall Treaty began and it may very well be call'd Personall for was it ever knowne that a King of England argued and disputed alone with able men selected out of the Parliament they personally to argue pro and con with a King His Majesty being seated in a Chair of State those his assistants by him were silent His Majesty desir'd a Copy of the Heads that they came to treat upon the Commissioners answered they were the same with those at Hampton Court His Majesty replyed some of those Heads concern'd Scotland the Commissioners said they came to treat onely of those that concern'd England and Ireland The King desir'd the Scots might be Included to which the Commissioners answered they had no Instructions to permit it his Majesty further desired that what papers he might put in during the Treaty might be no way obliging till such time as all was agreed The Commissioners Insisted on the first Article which was that his Majesty should recall all his Declarations to which he brought many pressing arguments professing he was in a very great straight to yeild would leave a blot and staine upon himselfe and those that assisted him and to breake off the Treaty upon that would be very prejudiciall to him and the whole Kingdome desiring some expedient might be found out The next day the Commissioners gave weighty reasons to his Majesty which mov'd him to signe it with this proviso that if the whole was not concluded this concession of his should not be taken advantage of The second Proposition wholly related to the settlement of the Church which being very long took some time In it he scrupled at two things first at his own taking the Covenant the second against pluralities much wondring that this should be put on him when the Parliament had granted more pluralities to some men then ever he did to any after much serious consideration the King gave in a Paper wherein he agreed First to settle the Directory secondly to passe an Act to confirme the Assembly thirdly that Presbyterian Government be setled for three yeares in the Interim a consultation be had what Government shall be setled at the expiration of the three yeares provided he and his party may have Liberty to use the old forme he liked not the sale of Bishops Lands for ninety nine years and utterly refused to take the Covenant Further adding that when he came to London he should be willing to passe any thing that his two Houses should advise to As to the Proposition for taking away all Honours since 1642. his Majesty is consenting that all persons on whom Honours have been confer'd since May 21. 1642. shall be uncapable of sitting in the House without the consent of both Houses of Parliament Concerning Delinquents his Majesty consents that all persons that have had any hand in the plotting contrary designes or assisting the Rebellion of Ireland shall expect no pardon For Delinquents his Majesty desires they may compound moderately for their Estates and further for the quiet and settlement of the Kingdome his Majesty is willing that all those Delinquents whom the Parliament shall not thinke fit be not admitted to Councell or Court without the consent of both Houses The Commissioners being bound up to receive a positive answer durst not accept of that Divers meetings and arguings were on both sides for and against at last on the 21 of October the King put in a Paper containing the Heads of those things that he requir'd which were 1. That he be put in a condition of freedome Honour and safety and have the faith of the two Houses therefore 2. That he may be restored to his Lands and Revenues 3. That he may have compensation for the Court of Wards and such other of his revenue as he shall part withall 4. An Act of Oblivion and Indempnity be past Which Propositions the Commissioners communicate to the Lords who upon debate finde them to be so reasonable as to consent to them all They likewise Informe the House of his Majesties answer to Religion and the Covenant which the House Vote not satisfactory and will by no meanes permit him the use of the Common prayer but for the Covenant they are content to suspend it but order the Commissioners to proceed on the rest The Lords Vote that they approve of his Majestie suspension of Episcopacy for three yeares provided it take no place afterward but by consent of Parliament The Lords and Commons Vote their Commissioners returne from the Treaty excepting the Earle of Northumberland Mr Perepoint and Mr Hollis The Commons debated of his Majesties Propositions and Vote that they agree 1. That he be in Honour freedome and safety according to the Laws 2. That he have his revenue as before excepting the Dedications of such Forts and Garrisons as were of old accustom'd to be allow'd maintenance 3. That he have compensation for the Court of Wards 4. That an Act of Oblivion be past All which they communicate to the Lords The King having Granted the Parliament to dispose of all Great Offices for ten yeares they Vote it satisfactory Lieutenant Generall Cromwell enters Scotland and puts out strict Proclamation for the Civill deportment of his Army He no sooner enters the Kingdome but Monroe and others dispairing of successe disband the new Levies and returne malancholly to Edenborough The Lieutenant Generall was with many of the Officers of the Army Nobly feasted by the Nobility and Gentry of that Nation at Edenborough The Scots send Commissioners to London to the Parliament to shew their Just dislike of the late Levies On the 9th of October he had Carlile deliver'd up to him who immediately appointed Sir Arthur Haslerig to be Governour Endeavours were made for the betraying of Pendennis Castle but it was timely prevented Lanerick the Governour of Barwick sent desiring Conditions for the delivering of the Town which was accordingly consented to The Lieutenant Generall with the Army returne out of Scotland not without much thanks from the Generality of the Nobility The Committee of York Petition the Lieutenant Generall to take care of the siege of Pomfret who accordingly sent a sharp summons to the Governour to which the Governour sent a Reply which in effect was a deniall Major Generall Skippon Reports to the House the great danger they were in by reason of the great concourse of Malignants and disaffected persons into the City together with the plots tending to assassinate many of the Members and of his Inability to assist them without a Guard requiring if they thinke it convenient that some of the Army come to Guard them upon which the House appointed a time to consider of
it The Complaint of the Country every where was very Great by reason of free quarter which the Officers of the Army upon serious Inspection discover a designe to stop their pay to make them more odious to the people At a Councell of War held at the Bull in St Albanes where were present sixteen Colonels besides other Officers a Declaration was read of all their Grivances and desires containing 26 sheets of Paper which was orderd to be presented to the House Nemine contradicente The Commons order the drawing of severall Acts to be sign'd by his Majesty As 1. An Act for Justifying the War made by Parliament 2. An Act for Nulling all Honours since the carrying away of the Great Seale 3. An Act for explanation and preventing future Interpretations of the Statute 25 Ed. the 3d and all other Acts of Treason and that of the 11 of Henry the 7th concerning the subjects aiding the King in his Wars for the better securing the Kingdomes peace and subjects lives and estates which being sent to the Commissioners together with the Votes of the House concerning the Bishops their Lands were by them presented to his Majesty who seemed very much dissatisfied The Commissioners againe press upon the King to which he replies that he had given his answer already and could not with a safe conscience consent to the abolishing of Bishops nor approve of the alienating of their Lands because he is perswaded the first is Apostolicall the second sacrilegious He further tould them that if his two Houses will not recede from their former Votes and content themselves satisfied in order to peace He can be content with Christ to suffer any thing that can befall him rather then deprive himselfe of the tranquility of Conscience still hoping that the Parliament will consent To which the Commissioners answer that the Parliament conceive it necessary that his Majesty grant their request for the peace and welfare of the Kingdom assuring that it is not the Apostolicall Bishop which they require but the Bishop establisht by Law growne up to that height of pride and state Insulting over all power and burthensome to the persons and estates of the subjects And for alienating Bishops Lands they answer they were settled by Law and by Law may be alienated and that it was an ordinary practice of his Majesties Predecessors in the Case of Abby Lands On the 26 of November was presented a Declaration of the Army to the Commons House which was the day before subscribed by the Generall it contained 26 sheets of paper shewing the misgoings of King Parliament severally also in all Treaties betwixt them especially that they are now in They conceive the Parliament hath abundant cause to lay aside any further proceedings in this Treaty and to returne to their Votes of non-addresses and settle with or against the King that he was Governe no more by rejecting those demands of the King especially concerning his restitution and coming to London with freedome Honour and safety and that they proceed against the King in way of Justice and that a peremptory day be set for the Prince of Wales and Duke of York to come in if not to be declared uncapable of any Government and stand Exiled for ever as traytors The Governour of the Isle of Wight sends a Letter to the Lords that he may be discharged of his Imployment which they would by no meanes consent to but ordered him to continue his Imployment The Generall Orders Collonell Euers Governour of the Island and sent for Colonell Hamond to the head quarters at Windsor whither being come He was for some time detained The Generall sent a Letter to both Houses of the Grounds and reasons of his advance with his Army toward the City in pursuance of their former Declaration And on the second of December accordingly the Generall and Army enter the Lines of Communication The Generall quarterd at White Hall with a Regiment of foote the Horse and the rest of the Army quarter in the Mews St James's York House and diverse other places about the City The King from Newport was by the new Governour convey'd to Hurst Castle a very noysome and unwholsome place where during his restraint he composed his book entituled The portraiture of his sacred Majesty in his solitude and sufferings a Royall Monument which he left to posterity The House sat all day and night till eight of the Clock next morning many Speeches were made by divers Members of the Kings Concessions among the rest Mr Prin made a long Speech proving the Kings Concessions to be a Ground for a setled peace which was afterwards Voted in the House 129 being for it and 84 against it Wednesday December the sixt some part of the Army having a List of those Members that were to be taken into custody according they did it not permitting them to enter the House the number seazed was thirty-four two whereof viz. Sir Benjamine Ruddier and Mr Nathaniel Fines were by the Generall discharged the rest were carried to the Kings head in the Strand and divers other places of Westminster having Guards upon them Presently after was publisht the Reasons why the Army had secluded divers Members which were First That very many had turn'd Malignants and had brought such into the House and kept them in notwithstanding Votes to the contrary secondly They endeavouring to bring the King in upon his own tearmes thirdly Their protecting the 11 Members from Justice fourthly Their abetting and pertaking with the Cities violence on the House and tumults fifthly Encouraging the City and others to Petition for a personall Treaty sixthly Encouraging the late Insurrections and calling in the 11 Members The remaining Members continue sitting on the seventh of December Lieutenant Generall Cromwell came to the House and had their thankes for his faithfull service both in England and Scotland The same day the Lords Voted his Majesties Concessions a Ground for peace and forthwith adjourne Severall Regiments of Horse and foote were quarterd in Black Fryers St Pauls Church and all the Houses adjacent On the ninth of December a Petition was presented to the Councell of War at White Hall by the Officers and Souldiers of divers Regiments That the Grand and Capitall Enemies of the Common-wealth may be speedily brought to Justice The Committee fitting in White Hall order a Representative of 400 persons to be chosen throughout the Nation for the settlement of the Kingdome December 13. the Remaining part of the Commons House Nuld and Vote for his Majesties Concessions and order the Generall to take care of the King The Councell of War were orderd to sit to draw up a Charge against the King and accordingly orders were Issued out for his removall December the 10th his Majesty came from Hurst Castle dined at a Ladyes and that night came on Hors-back to Winchester where he lay all night The next night to Farnham attended by Colonel Harison and a Guard of 2000
presence of all the Lords of the Privy Councell and other Peeres of the Realme at Westminster Created Duke of Yorke with all usuall and accustomed solemnities Count Gundamore being sent over Ambassadour from the King of Spaine to treate of a Match betwixt the young Prince and the Infanta of Spaine who confidently affirmed there was no other way to regaine the Palatinate and to settle a perpetual Peace in England but by this Match King James having a naturall inclination to peace gives great attention and by advice of the Privy Councell the Prince on the 17 of Feb. 1622. is sent disguised with the Duke of Buckingham attended by Endimion Porter of the Bed-Chamber and Richard Greenham Master of the Horse to the Duke who were met at Dover by Sir Francis Cottington Secretary to the Prince who being Imbarqued Land at Boloigne and so post to Paris where staying one day he had a transient View of that excellent Lady the Princes Henerettae Maria at a Mask which The Great Disposer of all things had preserved for him On the 7th of March he arrives at Madrid and alighted at the Earle of Bristolls house then extraordinary Ambassadour whose suddaine arrivall startled Bristoll who was altogether a stranger to the Journey The next Morning notice was given to Count Olivares the Spanish favourite and by him Communicated to King Philip of the arrivall of the Duke of Buckingham who in private informed the King of the Princes hazardous adventure to have a sight of the Infanta which accordingly was afterwards performed with a great deale of seeming affection But the crafty Spaniard could by no means be drawne to admit the restitution of the Palatinate but would reserve it as a Gratuity to be freely bestowed after the Marriage Much time was spent and Articles were drawn on both sides ready to signe when on the suddaine Pope Gregory dies who was to give his dispensation for the Match application is made to Pope Vrban which protracted much time the Prince being sensible of delay desires leave to returne with many Complements takes his farewell of the King and Infanta and with much danger arrives the fist of October at Porchmouth the next day posts to London where he was received with unspeakable joy of the people and soone after hasts to Royston where the King then resided to whom he gave an ample and large account of the whole proceedings the King communicates it to the Councell who concluded to acquaint a Parliament with it and forthwith a Parliament was summoned to meet in February following Which being met he declared the necessity of a mutuall compliance betwixt a King and his Parliament urging it with the parallel of Christ and his Church the husband the wife and so falls upon the businesse giving a short account of his Sons going to Spaine with Buckingham to attend him and his endeavours therein for the peace and welfare of Christendom and desires their advice and assistance for the good of the Common-wealth Religion his Son his Children of the Palatinate how that his Estate and welfare consisted with theirs and that he was free to follow their advice and concluded with serious and Christian Protestations that never wayfaring man in the burning desarts more desired water to quench his thirst then he thirsted and longed for the happy successe of this Parliament The House after debate desired a further account of the particulars which accordingly was performed by the Duke of Buckingham and the Prince Buckingham having satisfied the curiosity of a searching Parliament was by them greatly esteemed and looked upon as the preserver of the Nation The Parliament after nature Consideration advise the King to break off the Treaty and to proclaim open warre the King being naturally of a peacefull disposition was very timorous of it and urges his great want of money to maintaine it the Exchequer being much drained by his Sons Journey into Spaine Ambassadours the maintenance of his Children abroad who eate no other bread but by him besides he was loath to shew his Teeth and could not bite he is willing to dissolve the Treaties but if he should begin a warre God onely knows when it will end but he would ingage his Son for the Recovery of the Palatinate and in his old age will if need require assist in person promising the disposall of the moneys to a Committee of Parliament Forthwith a Councell of War is chosen who order 6000 men to be sent immediately into the Low Countryes in order to their passage into Germany Buckingham is accused of treason by the Spanish Ambassadour but nothing came of it The Prince growing in yeares and in the favour of the people the Treaty with Spaine being null'd some overtures are made for a Match with the Princes Henneretta Maria the youngest sister of the French King King James breaks it to his Privy Councell which joyntly applaud it a Parliament being summoned and the businesse propounded it was entertained by them with an unanimous consent and proposed that an Ambassadour be forth with sent to negotiate in behalfe of the Match the Earle of Holland is with all Expedition sent to feele the pulse of the French King in whom he found a ready inclination so that he could easily guesse at the event having advertised his Majesty of it instantly the Earle of Carlile is sent as an additionall Ambassadour to the Earle of Holland the French King sends Marquesse D'Effait for England in the quality of an Ambassadour the Noble Instruments plyed their businesse so close that on the tenth of November 1624. Articles on both sides were signed there wanted nothing for the Compleating the Match but a dispensation from Rome for which the King of France sollicited In the Interim King James being molested with a tertian Ague which drave him into a Feaver delivers up his soule to God the 27 of March 1625. at Theobalds leaving his three Kingdomes to his Son Various rumours past among the people concerning a plaister which the Duke of Buckingham caused to be laid to the Kings wrists but his Physitians Sir Matthew Lister Dr Chambers and others being examined cleared the Duke of that scandall He was accounted and called Great Britaines Solomon by some Courtiers a Generall Scholler and made all his Studies and Learning subservient to that of Divinity He was a perfect hater of Arminianisme the Semipelagians and of the Calvinisticall Presbyterian humour which severall times attempted to break forth in his Raigue but he by his wisdome supprest an excellent Oratour and by some charg'd with Epicurisme A man studious of peace The sad Newes of King James his death came to Whitehall just when Bishop Laud was in his Sermon which made him to breake off in compliance with the sadnesse of the Congregation His Son Charles was immediately proclaimed at the Court Gate King of Great Britaine France and Ireland who presently dispatcheth aviso's of his Fathers death to all Confederate Princes and States
to Next he took care for the solemne Interring of the Royall Corps which on the 14 of May was performed with all funerall Rites his Statue was lively presented on a magnificent Heare King Charles being present thereat His funerall Sermon was preached by Dr Williams Lord Keeper and Bishop of Lincolne King James by his death had intailed a war and an empty Exchequer upon his Successour which in all humane probability was the occasion of the great differences and vast breaches betwixt him and the people The King though much possest with griefe yet there remained some part for love he had still an eye toward France and to manifest it he sent out Letters of procuration to the Duke Chevereux to Espouse the Lady Heneretta Maria which Espousalls were solemnly performed in the Church of Nostredam in Paris The Bride prepares for England the Duke of Buckingham and the Earle of Montgomery with divers other Gentlemen of quality were sent to attend her At Bulloigne she was attended with one and twenty Ships and divers Ladies of Honour and on Sunday the 12 of Jane 1625. she landed at Dover the King then lay at Canterbury and the next day met her at Dover whence with all solemnity she was conducted to Somerset-House in London where a Chappel was prepared for her devotion with a Covent adjoyning of Capuchin Fryers according to the Articles of Marriage London at that time was much visited with the Contagion which broke out under the same roof that it formerly did at King James his Initiation into the Government and that which is more remarkable on the same day The King was not altogether Rapt up with the enjoyment of his deare Consort but he was mindfull of the affaires of State summons a Parliament which being met he speaks to this purpose My Lords and Gentlemen You are not ignorant that at your carnest Intreaty March 23d 1623. my Father of happy memory first took up Arms for the recovery of the Palatinate for which purpose by your assistance he began to forme a considerable Army and to prepare a Goodly Armado and Royall Navy but death intervening between him and the atchievement the war with the Crowne is divolved upon me to the prosecution whereof I am obliged both in nature and Honour so I question not but the same necessity continuing you 'le cherish the Action with the like affection and further it with a ready contribution True it is you furnished my father with affectionate supplyes but they hold no simmetry proportīo with the Charge of so great an enterprize for those your donatives are all disburst to a penny and I am inforc't to summon you hither to tell you that neither can the Army advance nor the Fleete set forth without further ayd Consider I pray you the eyes of all Europe are defixt upon me to whom I shall appeare ridiculous as though I were unable to out goe Muster and Ostentation if you now desert me Consider it is my first attempt wherein if I sustaine a foyle it will blemish all my future Honour If mine cannot let your own reputation move you deliver and expedite me fairely out of this warre wherewith you have encumbred let it never be said wherein you have betraid me I desire therefore your speedy supply speedy I call it for else it will prove no supply the Sunne you know is entring into his declining point so it will be soone too late to set forth when it shall be rather too soone to returne Againe I must mind you of the mortality now Regnant in the City which should it as so it may and no breach of proviledge neither arrest any one member of either House it would soone put a period both to consultation and session so that your own periclitation necessitates an early resolution In summe three of the best Rhetoricians Honour Oportunity and Safety are all of a plot and plead you see for expedition Perhaps it may be expected I should say something in way of account of my Religion as also of the temper and tenure of my future Government but as I hope I have not been guilty of any thing which may justly start the least question in either so I desire you will repose in this assurance that I will in neither vary from those principles wherein I have been instituted at the feete of that eminent Gamaliel my late Father Which being ended he valed his Crowne This Speech I set downe at large it being the first and I think not Inferiour to any for Rhetorick Though this Speech consisted of very pressing Arguments yet the Parliament made but slow hast for they had two Petitions one for Religion the other for Grievances which were presented to King James the last Session but received no answer which Petitions were presented to the King with this pretence that he might have time to consider and give a deliberate answer To the Petition for Religion his Majesty promised very faire but to the Petition for Grievances his Majesty gave very many satisfactory Answers he caused the Accounts of the severall disbursments relating to the Army and Navy to be delivered in to the Parliament which wrought such good effect that they gave him freely two Subsidies from Protestants four from Papists and three from the Clergy The King taking notice of the small appearance in the House by reason of the Infection Adjourn'd the Parliament to Oxford and the first of August the Parliament met at Oxford where they presented his Majesty a Petition against Recusants which the King readily and freely assented to The King urgeth the speedy Contributions which caused great debates some were very free and willing others were backward and pretended the businesse was managed with green heads speaking very unworthily of the Duke the greater part that refused resolved upon a Remonstrance the King being informed of it and fearing the distemper would grow too high dissolves the Parliament In September the States of Holland send over an Ambassadour to request a League offensive and defensive against their common enemies the Emperour and the King of Spaine which the King consented to on condition they would bear a fourth part of the charge of the Fleet Buckingham and Holland are sent over into the Low Countryes to advise with the Ambassadours of severall Princes about the restauration of the Kings sister but they were disappointed for the Danes denied ability the French unwilling upon their returne came the sad newes of the ill successe of our Fleete who put out the 8 of October and by the 12. were dissipated by reason of a furious storme which was so violent that 50 ships of 80 were missing for some time the storme being over a Councell was called and concluded to annoy the Ships in Gades Bay but finding it difficult by reason of a Fort just before it orders were issued out to cleere it or secure it in order to the designe but finding it Impregnable by Sea they conclude to
attempt it by Land Captain Burroughs an experienced Commander with a Regiment of foote was ordered for that service who managed it with so much care that a parley was immediately granted the Sea-forces being permitted to goe on shore took such liking to the Spanish wines that they grew disorderd which occasioned the Admirall to prevent further mischiefe to hasten home The Contagion raging in London Michaelmas Terme was ordered at Redding and speciall Instructions were given to the Judges to put in execution the Statutes against Recusants February the 2d 1625. was the day appointed for the Kings Coronation which was performed with all usuall and accustomed solemnity except his passage through London which saved some money the Exchequer being low A Parliament was called and met the 6 of Feb. the Commons began where they left concerning Religion the Lords present the King with a Petion concerning Grievances of their order The King promised speedy redresse Mr Pim of the Commons discovers to the House a Letter and signed to the Lord Mayor of York for reprieving some Priests and Jesuits a Committee is ordered to examine it The King being sensible of the necessities of the Kingdome demands supply and by Sir Richard Weston tells them That the Fleete was returned victualls spent and the men in great necessity for want of pay for which they were ready to mutiny which would be of dangerous consequence and that there were 40 sale ready to goe out which want a present supply that the Army on the Sea-coast wants victualls and clothes with other pressing wants and necessities In stead of a supply Mr Clement Coke a Member of the House of Commons Insolently delivers this It is better to die by a forraine Enemy then to be destroy'd at home The King being advised of it was sensibly troubled at it sends Sir Richard Weston to require satisfaction but they made very slow hast in it which occasion'd him to summon both Houses together and by the Lord Keeper delivers his mind in part to them in a large Speech much in vindication of the Duke which being ended the King spake as followeth I must withall put you in mind of times past you may remember my Father mov'd by your councel and woune by your perswasion brake the Treaties In these perswasions I was your Instrument towards him and I was glad to be Instrumentall in any thing which might please the whole body of the Realme nor was there any one then in greater favour then this man whom you now traduce and now when you find me so far intangled in war that I have no honourable nor safe retreate you make my necessity your priviledge and set what rate you please upon your supplyes a practice not very obliging toward Kings Mr Coke told you it was better to die by a forraine Enemy then to be destroy'd at home Indeed I thinke it is more honourable for a King to be invaded and almost destroy'd by a fortaine Enemy then to be dispised at home The Commons nothing startled at this made a quick reply concerning the Remonstrance the King would have them to dispatch businesse of greater concernment and there would be time enough for that But the Houses thought nothing of more concernment then proceeding against the Duke which gave occasion to the Lord Digby who long'd for nothing more then to exhibit 12 Articles against the Duke The Duke being wary and vigilant had long before provided Articles against Digby though wanting one of the others number which the next day were exhibited in Parliament Many rejoyced at it that by their quarrelling truth was discovered and they were so equally matcht that it was hard to discover which had the better of it But it rested not here for within few dayes the Commons drew up 13 Articles against the Duke presented them to the Lords and sent a message desiring he might be committed Sir Dudly Digs and Sir John Eliot two principall Actors in the Charge were serit to the Tower The House Remonstrate to the King upon which they were discharg'd the Duke having made his defence deliver'd it to the Lords who sequestred him from sitting till the tryall was over The defence was exprest with a great deale of humility and modesty But the Commons having gon so far were resolved to bring it to an upshot drew up a Declaration to back it before the subsidyes at which the King being much Incenst the next day June 15. 1626. he dissolved the House some interceding for some time he replyed No not a minute That very day was the Earle of Bristoll committed to the Tower and Proclamation for burning all Copyes of the Commons Declaration before their dissolution The breaking up of the Parliament was by some charg'd upon the Kings Indulgence toward the Duke The King of France pretending a martiall designe against Italy and the Vatoline craved of King James his ayd at whose request the King promised to lend the Vantgard a gallant Ship of the Navy Royall the Merchants on satisfaction to lend 6 more The Rotchellers being most Hugonets on pretence that the King had not slighted For Lewis according to agreement and taking the advantage of the Advance of the French Army for Italy surprized the Isle of Rhe together with many Ships that were in the Harbour King Lewis understanding of it makes what warlike preparation possibly he could requires ayd of the Dutch King Charles to performe his Fathers promise lends the Ships to King Lewis who together with the French and Dutch Ships fall on Subize the Stasiarch the chiefe Rebell retaketh his strong Holds and chaseth him to the Isle of Oleron King Charles being sensible of his Brothers mis-implying his Ships sent to demand the restitution of them who answered that his subjects detained them contrary to his mind and that he might get them as he could The King not being satisfied with this demand and wifely foreseeing it might occasion a further breach looks home and finds the French who attended the Queene very insolent who Imposed on the Queene a strange kinde of penance viz. That she should goe barefoot from Somerset-House to Tyburn Gallowes to offer up her prayers for Priests and Jesuits there executed for treason For which the King was very much discontented and on the first of January 1626. he came to Somerset-House attended by the Duke and diverse Officers of State all the Queens servants and attendants being the day before summoned to attend he spake as followeth Gentlemen and Ladyes I am driven to that Extremity as that I am personally come to acqucint you that I desire your returne for France true it is the deportment of some amongst you hath been very inoffensive to me but others againe have so dallied with my patience and so highly affronted me that I cannot I will no longer endure it Divers endeavoured to excuse themselves but the King replyed I name none the Queen endeavoured to pacifie the King but it would not
serve for a speciall Order was signed for their departure and sent the Lord Charlton to give his Brother a true account of that action The French King being informed of his Message would not permit him audience but sent Monsieur the Marshall de Bassom Pierre as extraordinary Ambassadour to demand their Restitution who might as well have saved the labour for it was in vaine the King would by no means permit it all the Merchants Ships were stopt by an Imbargo at Burdeux which incenst the King so high that he resolv'd on open wars with France And accordingly in October a Fleete of thirty sail under the Command of the Earle of Denbigh and the Lord Willowby set out which by a violent storme were very much damaged and forc't to return Anno 1626. dyed the Reverend Prelate Bishop Andrews a man very well skil'd in the Orientall Languages truly pious and devout Three hundred thousand pound was borrowed by Loane toward the Reliefe of Rotchell which was then intended to be besieged by the Duke of Guiz. On the 27 of June the Duke with six thousand horse and foote and ten of the Navy Royall assisted with ninety Merchant men set sale for Portsmouth and published a Manifesto of the Kings undertaking for the reliefe of the Protestants Sir John Burroughs with divers Gentlemen of quality and 1200 Souldiers landed in the Isle of Rhe who were received by the French valiantly which by their valour made it hard to distinguish who had the better The Duke perceiving the backwardnesse of the French to engage lands his horse and sends Sir William Beecher with 500 foote and some horse to the reliefe of Rotchell Upon their approach to Sr Martins Towne the Inhabitants immediately fled into the Castle The Duke being possest of the Towne raised batteries against the Castle where after he had laine before it two moneths without doing any considerable hurt and by poysoning their springs had almost inforc't them to yield had not Monsieur Balon at high water by twelve Pinaces in the dead of the night supplyed their necessities and on the 29 of October Marshall Schomberg at Port dela Pree landed 4000 foote and 200 horse who facing the besiegers put them to a great fright whereupon they resolve to rise be gon and in their retreat had diverse skirmishes The French with fury fell in on the reare of my Lord Mountjoys Troops who endeavouring to fly routed our own party which the Enemy perceiving pursue with violence We lost in that Encounter neere 2000 common Souldiers and 50 Officers prisoners of note 35. besides 100 common Souldiers which the King dismist out of respect to his Sister But the Duke being returned with those few scattered Troops the King resolves speedily to besiege Rotchell endeavouring to gain the Towne by famine built three Forts and drew a line toward the Land with many Redoubts within Musket-shot of the Town and by the Advice of Cardinall Ritchlew made a Huge Boone or Barachado a-crosse the Chanell almost 1500 yards in length leaving a small space for the ebbing and flowing of the Sea The Rotchellers perceiving their utter ruine approaching send over Deputies into England to solicite the King in their behalfe who promised what assistance he could The Kings necessities were at that time very great wanting almost what ever was necessary for a warre He resolves to summon a Parliament to meete on the 17th of March 1627. March 17. 1627. the Parliament met Sir Jo. Finsh was chosen Speaker And thus the King speaks to them My Lords and Gentlemen The times are for action for action I say not for words therefore I shall use but a few and as Kings are said to be exemplary to their subjects so I wish you would imitate me in this and use as few falling upon speedy consultation No man is I conceive such a stranger to the common necessities as to expostulate the cause of this meeting and not to thinke supply to be the end of it and as this necessity is the product consequent of your advise so the true Religion the Laws and Liberties of this state and Just defence of our freinds and allies being so considerably concern'd wil be I hope argument enough to perswade supply for if it be as most true it is my duty and yours to preserve this Church and Common-wealth this exigent time certainly requires it In this time of common danger I have taken the most antient speedy and best way for supply by calling you together if which God forbid in not contributing what may answer the quality of my accasions you doe not your duties it shall suffice I have done mine In the conscience whereof I shall rest content and take some other course for which God hath impowred me to save that which the folly of some particular men might hazzard to lose Take not this as a menace for I scorne to threat my inferiours but as an admonition from him who is tied both by nature and duty to provide for your preservation and I hope though I thus speake your demeanour will be such as shall ablige me in thankfulnesse to meet you oftner then which nothing shall be more pleasing to me Remembring the distractions of our last meeting you may suppose I have no confidence of good successe at this time but be assured I shall freely forget and forgive what is past hoping you will follow that sacred advise lately inculcated to maintaine the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace The Parliament being deeply affected with the necessities of our neighbour Protestants and freinds in eminent danger forthwith granted five subsidies with unanimous consent Secretary Cooke brings the news to the King who wept for joy and bid him tell them he would deny them nothing of their just liberties Immediatly the House fall upon the peoples libertyes and vote that no freeman be imprisoned by King or Councell without legall cause alledged They draw up a petition to this effect 1. That no person be compeld to make give or yeild any gift loan benevolence tax but by common consent of Parliament 2. That no freeman be imprisoned or detained of his liberty but by the Laws of the Land 3. That the souldiers and mariners be removed from billiting and the people eased for the time to come 4. That martial Law be revoked Which petition was presented to which his Majesty gave a speedy answer with plenary satisfaction and withal told them he having done his part if the Parliament have not a happy conclusion the sin was theirs he was free Which answer was received with great acclamation and Joy The House having fared so well fall a ripping up of old fores and drew up a Remonstrance which reflected upon the Duke at which the King stood amazed They likewise were drawing a Bill against Tunnage and Poundage which the King would by no means permit On the 26 of June the King prorogued the Parliament to the 20 of
some few Vipers among them that cast this mist of undutifulnesse over most of their eyes yet to say truth there was a good number there that could not be infected with this contagion in so much that some did expresse their duties in speaking which was the Generall fault of the House the last day To conclude as these Vipers must look for their reward of punishment so you my Lords must justly expect from me that favour and protection that a good King oweth to his loving and dutifull subjects And now my Lord Keeper doe what I command you who in the Kings name dissolv'd the Parliament The Parliament being dissolv'd the King sets forth a Declaration of the Causes Grounds and Motives that caused him to dissolve them together with an account of all the Transactions of this and the last Parliament Not long after the King sent for ten of the last Parliament to appeare at the Councell Table viz. Mr. Hollis Sir Miles Hobert Sir John Eliot Sir Peter Hayman Mr. Selden Mr. Stroud Mr. Correton Mr. Valentine Mr. Long Mr. Kirton who having been examin'd by the Lord Treasurer some were sent to the Tower some to the Gate-House others to the Fleete which afterward begot a very high controversie in Law The Queen being affrighted was before her time delivered of a Son who was baptized Charles which lived not above two houres The States of Venice sent over an Ambassadour to mediate for a peace betwixt us the French which was concluded in eight Articles and confirmed with solemn Oaths on both sides Two great Reasons were given for the Kings suddaine consent to a peace the one was the ill successe and bad fortune that alwayes attended his warlike designes the other and maine the sinews of war being dried and shrunk up the Exchequer was very barren Peter Reuben the famous Painter of Antwerp came over into England and made overtures of a peace with Spaine by offering the restitution of the Palatinate then which nothing was more desirable of the King but he had not full power to performe On the 29 of May 1630. the Queen was deliver'd of her second Son who was baptized the 27 of June at St James's with all Princely ceremony and named Charles which caused great rejoycings and acclamations among the people excepting the Puritan party At his birth a Star appeared visibly at noone day just as the King went to St Pauls Church to give thankes where he was presented with these Verses When to Pauls-Cross the Gratefull King draw nere A shining Star did in the Heavens appeare Thou that consults with divine Mysteries Tell me what this bright Comet signifies Now is there borne a valiant Prince i' th West That shall Eclipse the Kingdoms of the East The King being deeply sensible of his brothers miseries and being informed of a Diet at Ratsbone sent Sir Robert Anstruther Ambassadour to the Emperour and Estates in Germany to mediate in his brothers behalfe to which the Emperour return'd Answer that no forraine businesse was to be medled withall at the Diet but as soone as possibly he could he would doe that which might be for his Honour and he hoped to his Majesties content upon which the Ambassadour returnes One Layton a Rigid Presbyter who published a book call'd Zions Plea in which he excited the Parliament and People to kill all the Bishops Very abusive also to the Queene calling her the Daughter of Heth a Canaanite an Idolatresse was sentenced in the Star-Chamber to have his nose slit his eares cropt and stigmatized in the forehead which he for some time prevented by an Escape out of the Fleete but being taken underwent it The Peace betwixt England and Spaine was at last concluded the Articles being the same in effect with those that were betwixt King James and Philip the Third excepting that the King of Spaine should dispose of all his Interest in the Emperour toward the restitution of the Palatinate which was proclaimed Sunday the 27 of November 1630. with Great solemnity Aprill the 25. 1631. Mervin Lord Audley Earle of Castle-Haven was arraigned at the Kings-Bench Bar before Thomas Lord Coventry who for that day was appointed Lord High Treasurer of England he being found Guilty of Rape and Sodomy was by his Peeres condemned and Executed the 14 of May at Tower hill And on the 27 of June following Mr. Broadway and Fitz Patrick servants to and concriminaries with the Lord Audley were tryed at the Kings-Bench-Bar and being found Guilty the one of Rape the other of Sodomy were condemned and on the sixt of July were executed at Tyburne The Queene was the 4th of November 1631. deliver'd of her eldest Daughter who was baptized Mary December 2d 1632. The King was visited with the small Pox but by Gods blessing soone recovered Anno 1632. The Church of St Paul which by the pious zeale of our Auncestors was raysed to that huge bulke that all Christendome was not able to paralell being through age decayed was by the piety of his Majesty the Bishops the Nobility Gentry and Commonalty of the Nation begun to be repaired and a very great progresse was made therein but the unhappy differences of the Nation ensuing caus'd its obstruction Anno 1633. The King having been often solicited to goe into Scotland in order to his personall Coronation on the 13th of May he sets forward with a Princely Traine most of the English Nobility all the Scots that attended here and on the way was very Nobly treated by diverse of the Nobility and Gentry ospecially by the Earle of Newcastle at Welbeck On the 10 of June he came safe to Edenborough where he was Crowned with all outward seeming affection and on the 20 of July return'd safe to the Queen at Greenwich In the beginning of August dyed the Reverend Prelate George Abbot Archbishop of Canterbury William Laud then of London immediately succeeded him October the 13th 1633. the Queen was delivered of her second Son who was baptized James and on the 24 of the same moneth was by Letters pattent created Duke of York The King taking into his Princely care the Irreverend and remisse service of God in the Kingdome of Scotland sent Orders to be observed by the Deane of his Chappell as in England 1 That prayer be said twice a day according to the English forme 2 The Sacrament to be administred once a moneth and to be received Kneeling 3 That he which Officlates on Holy dayes doe it in his Surplice Which though backt with a Letter requiring exact obedience the Deane durst not performe for feare of discontenting the people The King by the Advice of the Bishops and Councell Reviv'd his Fathers Declaration for tolerating Lawfull Sports on the Sunday which gave great distast to the people especially to the puritanicall party On the second of February being Candlemas day at night the King and Queene were entertained at White Hall with a Mask of the Gentlemen of the Inns of Court The
not here for not long after it was observed that a great concourse of people from all parts of that Kingdome came to Edenborough which occasioned the Lords of the Councell to put forth severall Proclamations to prevent the like disorders but they nothing prevailed for the next day the Bishop of Galloway going to the Councell was followed by a great multitude railing and reviling him untill he came to the Councell-doore where he was no sooner enter'd but they beset the House with very great multitudes threatning destruction to all that were within The Councell immediately require ayde of the Provost and other Magistrates of the City who returne answer that they were in the like danger The tumult still increasing they of the City were forc't for the safegard of their own lives to subscribe as followeth 1. To joyne in opposition to the Service-Book and to Petition against it 2. To restore Ramsey and Rollock two silenced Ministers 3. To receive in Mr Henderson formerly silenced Which being signed the Councell thought was a good step to suppresse the tumult but entring into the High street The Lord Treasurer and other Lords were afresh assaulted trodden under-foote and brought back by violence to the Councell-House where being in great danger they require ayde of diverse Noblemen disaffected to the Common-prayer-book who promised what assistance they possibly could and in the end return'd home safe In the afternoon proclamation was made at the crosse of Edenborough for prevention of the like disorders but to smal effect some Citizens demanding the restitution of the Ministers and the performance of what was subscribed Suddenly two petitions were presented against the Common-prayer book and the Composers and Abettors of it which petitions were sent to the King with the narrative of the whole who immediatly sent instructions for adjourning the Tearm to Sterling a strong place and to make proclamation of severe penalties to be inflicted on the breakers and contemners of the peace which was no sooner proclaimed but the Lord Hume Lindsey and divers others protest against it and in contempt of Authority compeld the Heralds to hear the Protest or Covenant read all which being imparted to the King he sends Marquesse Hamilton as high Commissioner to settle peace and a right understanding who dealt treacherously and deceitfully trifling away eleven moneths time having three times returned to and again for England and at last published the Kings gracious Proclamation nulling the Service book and high Commission promising an Assembly to be held at Glascow Novem. 21. 1638. and a Parliament at Edenborough the 15. of May 1639 but this nothing satisfied for the more the King granted the more averse they were During the treaty the Covenanters had provided Officers Armes and what was necessary for a war The General Assembly being met they proceed to declare against the Book of Common prayer which occasioned the Bishops to draw up a protest against their proceedings and in conclusion by the Unanimous consent of all the Councel excepting Argile the Assembly was dissolved Proclamation was made and published throughout the Nation shewing the grounds and reasons of their dissolution which proclamation was opposed by the Covenanters with a protestation to adhere to all their former Covenants to put by all the Bishops Some they excommunicate and not long after totally abolished Episcopacy as being as they pretended inconsistant with the word of God and Lawes of that Nation Which occasioned the Marquesse and Commissioners to returne for England seemingly much discontented In the interim the Covenanters began to raise Armes Levy souldiers Impose taxers upon the people seize some of the Kings Castles raise fortifications and prepare for a war and chose David Lesley an old souldier to be General Toward the latter end of October 1638. came the queen mother into England many of the Common people were troubled at it as being generally by them lookt upon as a forerunner of a greater mischiefe The Scots are very high and insolent assuming all authority and invent new and unheard of Judicatures in defiance to the King and Councel and having cast of Episcopal Jurisdiction declare for the Calvinistical presbyterian Government which for a long time had bin hatching in that Kingdome but could never take head till then The King to suppresse their insolency by the advise of the Bishops prepares an Army which they contributed very largely to and being backed with the assistance of the Nobility and Gentry a considerable force is raised the Earle of Arundell being made Generall The King on the 17 of March the day of his Inauguration advances against the Scots The Scots hearing of the Kings advance march forward under the Conduct of their Generall David Lesley to meet him with Petition in one hand and their Armes in the other and on the 28 of May both Armies came within view The Scots after some time sent to treat about a pacification the King willingly consented to it and for the English were chosen the Earls of Holland Pembroke Salishury and Barkshire and Sir Henry Vane for the Presbyterian Covenanters the Earle of Rothes and Dunferling Lord Louden Douglas Archibald Johnson and Alexander Henderson Who after much Consultation conclude Articles of pacification on both sides which were signed the 18 of June Which Articles were as follow On the Kings part 1. His Majesty to confirme what his Commissioners promised in his name 2. That a Generall Assembly be called to sit at Edenborough August 6. 3. That a Parliament be called and sit at Edenborough the 20 of August 4. That he recall all forces by sea and land and restore all ships arristed and detained since the pretended Assembly at Glascow upon the Covenanters disarming and dishanding of their forces dissolving their tables and restoring to the King all his castles forts and ammunition and releasing all the persons lands and goods then under restraint since the pretended Assembly at Glascow This to be done by declaration On the Covenantes part 1. All the forces of Scotland to be disbanded within forty eight houres after publication of the Kings declaration 2. They to render up after the said publication all Castles Forts Ammunition of all sorts so soone as the King should send to receive them 3. They to hold no meetings treatings or consultations but such as are warranted by act of Parliament 4. They to desist from all fortifications and these to be remitted to the Kings pleasure 5. They to restore to all the Kings subjects their lands liberties houses goods and meanes taken or detained from them since the first of Feb. last Notwithstanding the declaration the Scots are stil averse and draw up a Protestation of sticking close to the late Generall Assembly at Glascow and to their solemne Covenant and perfidiously broke all their Articles of agreement continue their meetings neglect slighting the fortification and continue their officers in pay which with many other insolencies compeld the King to consider of reducing them to
where it was resolv'd that a Parliament should assemble the third of November following and to desire a speedy Treaty with the Scots at Yorke the Scots replied it was no way safe for them by reason that my Lord of Strafford Generall of the Kings Army had proclaimed them traytors in Ireland before the King had done it in England he being an utter Enemy to them and one whom they did Intend to Impeach At last Rippon is the place agreed on The Commissioners on both sides are Chosen The Scots present their demands to this purpose 1. To confider how their Army should be maintain'd till the Treaty be ended and their peace secured 2. If more Commissioners be required they may be convai'd with safety 3. All Intercourse of Letters betwixt them and the Parliament to be convai'd with safety 4. That there may be a free correspondency of Commerce with Newcastle especially for Victualls Which Proposalls at first seem'd very hard to the English who thought it more reason first to provide for their own Army but the Conquering sword decides the Controversie The English must yeeld to the Scots unreasonable demands After many meetings of the Commissioners at last in thirteen Articles they agreed upon a cessation which was signed by the King the 16 of October but the Grand Treaty was by their supplication to the King appointed at London and in the meane time all acts of Hostility to cease At that time the Earle of Montrosse who had acted all along with the Covenanters began to discover the treacherous Designes of the Scots and now plainely saw that they meant nothing lesse then what they pretended viz. The Honour of his Majesty and the preservation of Religion as alwayes the vilest actions are covered with the most specious pretences yet was so wise as not presently to discover himselfe but from time to time advertiz'd his Majesty of the proceedings which Letters by Hambiltons advice were taken out of the Kings pockets transcribed and sent to the Covenanters who dissembled it to the Earle but cast durt in his face raising frivolous aspersions endeavouring to make him odious to the people Great was the Expectation of the whole Kingdome for the happy meeting of the Parliament and every small obstruction was lookt on as a great Impediment many Good men hoped for the redresse of Grievances others waited to spit that venom which they had a long time contracted In November 1640. the Parliament began where the King in a Gracious Speech declared his earnest desire for the happinesse and prosperity of the Kingdome giving an account of the Scotch war and desired them as he promis'd he would to lay aside all prejudice and he would now clearely and freely put himselfe upon the love and affection of his English subjects desiring them to consider the best way for the safety and security of the Kingdome of England and in order to it for satisfaction of their just Grievances wherein he would heartily concur that the world might see his Intentions were to make this a Glorious and flourishing Kingdome freely leaving it to them where to begin and concluding That it should not be his fault if this were not a good and happy Parliament Many Members made long Speeches about Grievances as Sir Ben Ruddier Mr. Grimston Mr. Pim Sir John Clotworthy and others which were backt by diverse other Members Their first businesse was to Vindicate distressed Ministers diverse were inlarged and restored to their former Livings Many Petitions were presented from most parts of the Kingdome for Redresse of Grievances The Lords complaine that the priviledges of their House were broken because the Earle of Warwick and the Lord Brooks had their Studies and Cabinets searched The House discharged Mr. Prin Mr. Burton and Dr Bastwick out of prison and Voted Mr. Burton 6000 l. damage Mr. Prin and Dr Bastwick 5000 l. a piece Mr. Denzill Hollis not many dayes after was sent from the Commons to the Lords to Impeach the Earle of Strafford of High Treason Mr. Pim made a report to the House what Capitall Crimes were objected against him upon which in fourteen Articles he is Charg'd by Mr. Pim. The Earle is forthwith sequestred the House and committed to the Black Rod. On the 18 of December Bishop Wren and Bishop Laud are Voted by the Commons Guilty of High Treason and a Charge was immediately brought in against Bishop Laud upon the Reading of which he is order'd to the Tower but upon his request was respited for two dayes Sir Francis Windibanke principall Secretary of State fled and not long after him my Lord Finsh one that had been very Active for Ship-money which was then Voted Illegal and most of the Judges were Voted Delinquents The Parliament began to strike a terror into all that had any way offended or had been violent in action both in Church and State In December Alderman Penington with a great multitude out of London for now it was customary for Petitioners to come in great numbers Petitioned the House against Episcopall Government and other Ceremonies of the Church of which a Committee was appointed to consider The Armies in the North lay heavy upon the Kingdome which moved the House to allow 100000 l. toward their present pay and the money to be borrowed of the City of London untill the same be raysed by subsidy The King summons both Houses together to the Banqueting House and declares himselfe not satisfied with their slow proceedings and the Great Charge of maintaining two Armyes next of the low condition of his Navies and Forts whereby his enemies are encouraged and his friends disheartned and likewise tooke notice of diverse strange Petitions presented to the House against the Government of the Church he told them he was content with a Reformation not an alteration of Church-Government He tooke notice of a Bill preparing in the House for frequent Parliaments to be elected by the Sheriffes without his consent which he could by no means admit of it being an Inseparable right of his Crowne and did freely confesse that frequent Parliaments were the best means for preserving a right understanding betwixt him and his subjects These were the two principall rocks he would have them avoyd Not long after arrived the Dutch Ambassadour to negotiate in behalfe of a Match betwixt the Prince of Orange and the Lady Mary the Kings eldest daughter which the King thought fit to Impart to the Parliament they for the present doe nothing in it but proceed to the drawing up the Bill for a Trienniall Parliament which being past by both Houses was the 16 of Feb. presented to his Majesty for his consent To whom he declares himself reminding them that this was one of the two rocks which he formerly tould them of and that the Consequence of it was such that never Bill past the House of more favour to the subject then this minding them that by reason of their proceedings he might justly question the doing it
and took notice how they had taken the Government all in pieces how that a skilfull Watch-maker to clense his Watch will take it asunder and when it is put together it will goe better provided no pin be omitted Now I have done this on my part you know what to doe on yours reposing Great Trust and confidence in your affection The passing of this Bill was by wise men thought to be none of the least of his failings Judge Barkly was by the Usher of the black Rod arrested as he sat on the Kings Bench for high treason Thomas Earle of Strafford was next brought upon the stage the Articles exhibited against him were from 14 made 28. and on the 22 of March 1640. his Triall began The place appointed was Westminster-Hall where scaffolds were raised on both sides nine degrees in height The two uppermost for the Scotch Commissioners and the Irish Lords In the midst in a lower ascent sat the Peeres of the Realme a Throne also was erected for the King but he never appear'd publiquely but was every day of the Triall in a Close Gallery to heare and observe the whole proceedings and took notes The Earle of Arundell was Lord High Steward and the Earle of Linsey Lord High Constable The Charge was principally managed by Mr. Glin and Mr. Maynard both Members of the Commons House fifteene dayes together was the Earle arraigned and gave in his answer to every particular Charge The Commons Charge him afresh by Mr. Pim concerning some Notes taken by Secretary Vane which were discover'd by his son of his telling the King be had an Army in Ireland which his Majesty might Imploy to reduce this Kingdome to obedience He is againe call'd to the Barre and Mr. Glin and Mr. Pim endeavour to prove him Guilty by Law They extend his Crimes and make him as Odious as possible they can The Earle moves for Councell which the Peeres could not in reason deny The Commons oppose but after three dayes contest the Peeres prevaile Councell is assign'd him viz. M. Lane The Princes Atturney Mr. Gardner Recorder of London Mr. Loe and Mr. Lightfoote and Saturday the 17 of Aprill was appointed for him and his Councell to appeare where his Councell argued his case in Law that day they adjourn not appointing any time for their next meeting The Commons House Vote him Guilty of high Treason upon the evidence of Sir Henry Vanes notes which Bill of Attainder was sent up to the Lords which in their House was much opposed Some few dayes after Mr. St John The Kings Soliciter was sent by the Commons to the Lords to Justifie the Bill by Law which accordingly was by him performed in Westminster-Hall The Earle being present and The King in his accustomed place The Peeres in their House proceed to Condemnation The King having notice of it on the first of May Calls both Houses together where he declares that he had been present at the whole Triall and that in Conscience he could not condemne him of high Treason He likewise in Vindication of the Earle declares 1. That he never had any Intention to bring over the Irish Army nor ever was advised by any body so to doe 2. That there never was any debate before him either in publick Councell or private Committee of the disloyalty of his English subjects And that though he could not in Conscience condemne him of high Treason yet he could not cleare him of misdemeanours He desired them to consider what a tender Conscience was and that to satisfie his people he would doe much but in this of Conscience neither fear nor any other respect should make him goe against it He desired them to find out some middle way and was of opinion that for misdemeanours he thought him not fit to serve him or the Common-wealth in any place of trust no not a Constable This speech gave much discontent to both Houses Sunday May the second The Prince of Orange was married to the Lady Mary at White Hall with Great solemnity and triumph The next day diverse seditious persons had stirred up the multitude to the number of 5000 or 6000. who in a Tumultuous manner came arm'd to Westminster crying out for Justice to be executed on the Earle committed outrages on divers Lords but by faire promises of my Lord Chamberlain they were appeased They likewise posted at Westminster Hall Gate and the Exchange a Catalogue of those that opposed the Bill of Attainder under the title of Strafordians The fift of May a Motion was made in the House for a loan of 650000 l. to be Lent till it was Levied by Subsidy provided the King would pass a Bill not to adjourne prorogue or dissolve this Parliament without the consent of both Houses upon which Motion a Bill was order'd to be drawne up The Lords by advice of the Judges Vote the Earle Guilty of the 15 and 19 Articles And at a Conference of both Houses it was ordred That some Lords be sent to the King with the two Bills one for executing the Earle The other for continuance of this Parliament which accordingly was done on Saturday and The King promised his answer on Monday All the Sabbath day he was much perplext within himselfe The Clamours of the multitude were great he sends for the Judges to advise summons the Privy Councell and with them spends much time in arguing the Case sends for five Bishops viz. London Lincolne Carlile Durham and Bishop Vsher who for Law wholly remit him to the Judges and for Conscience he having heard the whole proceedings if he conceiv'd him Guiltlesse he ought not to condemne him The Judges in part satisfie the King by declaring that he was Guilty of high Treason The Earle himselfe that day writ a Letter with his own hand To set his Majesties Conscience at Liberty humbly requesting him to prevent such mischiefes as might ensue upon his refusall to pass the Bill and That his consent herein should acquit him to God more then all the world beside Munday the 10th of May his Majesty being wearied with complaints granted a Commission to the Earle of Arundell Lord Privy Seale Lord Chamberlain and others to pass the two Bills The next day being much afflicted in his spirit he wrote to the Lords and sent it by the Prince wherein he requests That although he had past the Bill of Attainder against The Earle yet desir'd to shew mercy by letting that unfortunate man to end his life in Close Imprisonment but if no lesse then life can satisfie my people I must say Fiat Justicia The Postscript was If he must die it were Charity to reprieve him till Saturday The House returnd answer that his request could not possibly be admitted without apparent danger to Him his Wife and Children On Wednesday the 12 of May he was brought from the Tower to the scaffold on Tower-hill attended by Bishop Vsher where he made his last Speech to the people Protesting his Innocency in
resorting to Westminster every day caused the King for his own safety to repaire to Hampton Court with the Queen and Prince for which by many good men he was much blamed The next day after the King went to Hampton Court many Citizens with a great company of boats with Guns and flags Guard the five Members in Triumph to Westminster which gave occasion to the King to dislike the City The House of Commons Petition the King for the Militia To which he gives a speedy answer though not satisfying to them They likewise Petition that the five Members may be estated and cleared of that Imputation of Treason To which he answered That he had ground and proofe enough to accuse them but he is willing to forbeare prosecution if that will not doe to satisfie the people he will pass a free and Generall pardon as they shall think fit The King after he had been at Hampton Court some small time sends for the Earle of Essex then Lord Chamberlain and the Earle of Holland Groom of the Stoole to attend him but they refused rather choosing to obey his Writ upon which he sends a Messenger for the Staffe and Key the Ensignes of their Office which they willingly resign'd The Queen having receiv'd a Message from both Houses by the Earle of Newport and the Lord Seamor that they intended to charge her with Treason She answered she never saw any Articles in writing and therefore gave little credit and she hop'd they would lay no aspersions upon her that never mistrusted the actions of one single person much lesse the whole House and that she ever wisht a happy and right understanding betwixt the King and his people In February the King and Queen went to Canterbury and so to Dover with the Princess Mary wife to the Prince of Orange The Queen went along with her into Holland and some affirme carried the choicest Jewells of the Crown with her to pawn During the Kings stay at Canterbury he signed the Bill to take away Bishops Votes in Parliament The King came back to Greenwich and sends for the Duke of York to attend him in his going to York where he intended to reside From Greenwich he removes to Theobalds where he is presented with a Petition for the Militia and likewise to reside neer London and not to take his Son with him The King refused to give any other answer to the Militia then what he had already done and that he should take such care of his Son as should justifie him to God as a Father and to his Dominions as a King and that he conceiv'd himselfe not safe neer London The House immediatly Vote That his Majesties answer was a flat deniall and likewise Order The Earle of Northumberland Lord High Admirall to take care for the providing and rigging of the Royall Navy for the service of the Kingdome The House seeing they could not prevaile with the King for the Militia past an Order for setling the Militia throughout England and Wales in confiding persons hands From Huntingdon the King sent a Message to both Houses shewing the Grounds and Reasons of his removall to York desiring them to expedite the necessary supplyes for Ireland and forbids them by any pretence of Order or Ordinance to meddle with the Militia or to doe or execute any thing against Law he being tyed up by the Law as well as his subjects and must obey Upon which the House drew up a Declaration of their utter dislike of his proceedings The King at Stamford puts forth a Proclamation for putting in execution the Laws against Papists And being at York puts forth a Proclamation for Tunage and Poundage The eight of Aprill 1642. the King sends a message to both Houses declaring his Intentions to goe himselfe in person to chastize the bloody rebells and that he intended to raise forthwith by Commission a Guard for his own person consisting of 2000 foote and 200 horse and to arme them from his Magazine at Hull Upon which the Houses Petition to remove the Magazine from Hull The Gentry Ministers and Freeholders of the County of York Petition the King to which his Majesty gives a speedy and gracious answer The House again Petitions that the Magazine at the Tower of London being much drained that from Hull may be brought up to which his Majesty answered That for the Charge of Locking to the Magazine at Hull as it was by them at first voluntarily undertaken though unnecessarily yet you may free our good people of that Charge and leave it to Vs to look to who are the proper owners of it The Parliament though they could not prevaile by Intreaty resolve to doe it by possicy for they had sent to keep out the Earle of Newcastle and committed the Towne and Fort to a faithfull Friend of theirs Sir John Hotham The County of York petition the King that the Magazine may remaine there for the security of the Northern Countyes and during the Contests the Parliament went on might and maine setling the Militia in many Countyes and by Reason the Earle of Northumberland was indisposed in health and could not attend the Sea-service they petition that the Earle of Warwick may be Admirall The King utterly refuses the Earle of Warwick yet notwithstanding the Earle of Warwick being Encouraged by some Votes of the House though with some opposition got possession of most part of the Navy The King attended by many of the Nobility a great number of Gentlemen and some Souldiers came before the walls of Hull but found the Gates shut and the Bridges drawne up by the Command of Sir John Hotham a Member of the Commons House Sir John Hotham appeared on the wall Kneelling downe Intreating his Majesty not to command that which he must be inforc't at that time to deny and that he could not admit him in without breach of trust to the Parliament craving leave that he might have time of acquaint the Parliament The King being very wrath desired to know if he had any Order in writing expressly to deny his entrance And after some houres stay Proclaimed Sir John Hotham a Traytor after he had received The Duke of York and the Prince Elector out of the Town who had been there one day The King forthwith sends a Message to the Parliament accusing Hotham for a traytor and likewise sent a Letter to the Mayor of Hull to take care that no part of the Magazine should be conveyd away without his consent there were Scouts appointed to Intercept all Letters between London and Hull and a Letter accordingly was Intercepted going from the Parliament to Hull giving encouragement to Sir John to continue firme nothing doubting but they would stick by him The House being Informed of the Intercepting of their Letter Voted it a high breach of the priviledge of Parliament and that what Sir John had done was in obedience to that House and that the proclaiming him a traytor without due process of Law
is a breach of their priviledge against the Laws of the Land and the liberty of the subject They likewise past an Order to prevent the Levying any Souldiers in Yorkshire or Lincolnshire to force a passage into the Towne of Hull and the more to enrage the King Hotham is ordred to Levy The trained bands which being come into the Towne he disarmes and dismisses them There was a select Committee appointed to goe to Hull with Instructions for the safety of the Counties of York and Lincoln to whom all Sheriffs Justices of the peace Constables and other Officers are requir'd to be ayding and assisting Things began to grow very high The King summons the Gentry of the County of York where he gave them a large account of all the messages and replyes touching Hull and the Reasons why he did not signe the Bill for the Militia To be short You see my Magazine is going to be taken from me directly against my Will The Militia against the Law and my consent is going to be put in execution and lastly Sir John Hothams Treason is countenanced all which being considered none can blame me to apprehend dangers and upon this reall Ground to tell you that I am resolv'd to have a Guard onely to secure my person In which I desire you assistance that I may be able to protect you the Laws and the true Protestant Religion from any affront or Injury Which speech was by them received with great affection The Parliament being inform'd of the Kings Speech to the Yorkshire Gentry declare that it is against the Laws and liberties of the Kingdome that any of the subjects thereof should be commanded by the King to attend him at his pleasure and that whosoever upon pretence of his Majesties command shall take up Armes in a warlike manner shall be esteemed disturbers of the peace and to be proceeded against accordingly and likewise signed an Order to the Sheriffe of that County to take care to suppresse the raising of the trained bands upon the Kings Command But the Parliament Issue out Commissions to all parts of the Kingdome appointing certain dayes for all the trained bands to be exercised in each County and that severall Members be sent into the severall Counties to see the Commissions put in execution and all the Magazines in the severall Counties to be put into the hands of their confiding friends Which Commissions were answered by Proclamation from the King forbidding the trained bands and all others to rise or muster on pretence of any Ordinance of Parliament without his consent The breach was now growne wide the Parliament still opposing and thwarting the King on all occasions moved diverse of the Members to desert it and repaire to the King so that in a small time the Lords at York were more in number then those at Westminster The names of those that went were the Marquesse of Hartford the Earle of Lindsey Cumberland Huntington Bath Southampton Dorset Salisbury who presently return'd Northampton Devonshire Bristoll Westmerland Barkshire Munmouth Rivers Newcastle Dover Carnarvan Newport the Lord Howard Charlton New-wark Pawlet Paget Matreverse Willowby Rich Fawconbridge Chandois Coventry Lovelesse Savill Seymor Mohune Dunsmore Lord Capell Gray of Ruthen Together with above fifty of the Commons House whose departure startled the active men of the House who notwithstanding having gone so far proceed and Vote That it appeares that the King being seduced by evill Councell Intends to make war against the Parliament and that when he doth it is a breach of trust reposed in him and likewise that whosoever shall ayd or assist him in the said war are traytors by the fundamental Laws of the Kingdome And on the 30 of May by Vote summon nine of those Lords that went to returne but they utterly refused which the House deemed a sleighting of them which occasioned Mr. Hollis after a long Speech to Impeach them of high treason which the Peeres afterwards confirm'd in Voting them never to sit in the House more and to be uncapable of any priviledge of Parliament And not long after the Lord Keeper Littleton sent away the Great Seale to the King and immediately followed it which put the House to a great plunge for the present In June 1642. The two Houses sent a Petition with 19 Propositions to the King to which he reutrn'd a smart answer taxing them that they had contrary to law pressed their Ordinances on the people wrested from him the command of the Militia countenanced the Treason of Hotham and had directed to the people Invectives against his Government asperst him with the favouring of Papists and with an utter dislike of the Propositions protested that if he were vanquisht and a prisoner in worse condition then any the most unfortunate of his predecessors had ever been reduced unto he would never stoop so low as to Grant those demands and to make himselfe of a King of England a Duke of Venice And now both sides prepare for war The Parliament the 10 of June 1642. past an Order for bringing in money and plate to maintaine horse and foote for defence of the publick peace for which they did engage the publick faith The King on the other side receives advice by Letters from Amsterdam of a considerable quantity of Armes and Ammunition which was provided upon some Jewells pawned by the Queen he likewise sends Commissions of Array with Letters to the Lieutenants of the severall Counties making use of the Parliaments Vote and declares That the Kingdome being in danger of Enemies abroad and a Popish party at home it is necessary to put the people in a posture of defence that you immediately cause to be restored all the ancient trained bands and free-hold bands and to appoint Collonells and Captaiens and other Officers to command them The Parliament Vote the Commission to be against Law and the actors therein to be esteemed disturbers of the peace Whereupon the King summons the Lords of the Councell with the rest of the Nobility at York and declares that he requires no obedience of them but what shall be according to law and requires them to yeeld to no commands Illegally Imposed by any other and that he will not Ingage them in any war against the Parliament except for necessary defence against such as shall Invade him or them Upon which with unanimous consent they all freely engag'd to him their duty and allegiance The King sends a Letter to the Lord Mayor of London Aldermen and Sheriffes forbidding any contribution of money and plate toward the raising of any Armies whatsoever for the Parliament By this time the Armes were arrived from Holland but the King wanted men to weild them yet by his Speeches and Declarations had gained the affections of many of his people and a considerable number was got together and from Beverly he sends a Message and Proclamation to the Parliament of his Intentions to goe against Hull requiring it might be delivered up to him
which they answer'd with a Petition moving him to accord with his two Houses they likewise set out a Declaration for the safety of Hull promising satisfaction for all damages sustained On the 11 of June 1642. The Parliament Vote that an Army shall be raised for the defence of King and Parliament and the Earle of Essex to be Generall The King according to his former Intentions with an Army of 3000 foote and 1000 horse Intends to besiege Hull by Land and made Proclamation that none on paine of death carry any provisions into Hull Hotham being Inform'd of the Kings advance summons a Councell of War which resolve to hold the King play with their Ordinance till the tide came in and then to draw up their sluces which accordingly was performed with much damage to the Kings Souldiers Hotham likewise sends to the Parliament requiring 500 men for the safety of the Towne and provisions Upon which by command of the Parliament Drums are beaten p in London and other adjacent Counties for Volunteers to goe immediatly to Hull and within a week 500 men and more were sent by Sea under the command of Sir John Meldram to assist Sir John Hotham The King calls a Councell and resolves to break up the siege By this time the Earle of Warwick was possest of most of the Fleete for the service of the Parliament and they were in a considerable way to raise an Army by the assistance of that mass of money and plate that was brought in for it is almost Incredible with what zeale and affection by the Ministers perswasions the people were willing to be rid of their Treasure every one vying who should contribute most nay the women and maidens spared not their Rings Thimbles and Bodkins for the advancement of the cause The Earle of Essex with much prudence raiseth a considerable body of horse and foote The Earle of Bedford was Voted to be Generall of the Horse Collonell Goring eldest Son to the Lord Goring was sent down to Portsmouth by the Parliament but suddenly he declares for the King The King being return'd to York summons the Gentry and requires their assistance for the raising of a Regiment for the Princes Guard to be commanded by the Earle of Cumberland The Parliament declare against the Commission of Array Vote it Illegall on the other side the King being Inform'd of the Earle of Essex his raising an Army proclaimes hm a Rebell and a Traytor to the King and his Crowne and that all Collonells and other Officers under his Command that shall not Instantly lay downe their Armes are Guilty of High Treason And likewise Commands the Marquesse of Hartford to raise what Forces he could to suppresse him Great was the Contest almost in every County betwixt the Parliament Commissioners and the Commissioners of Array In some Counties the Kings party prevailed in others the Parliaments London the Great Metropolis was not exempted for Sir Richard Gurney then Lord Major was committed to the Tower for causing the Kings Commission of Array to be read and was by the Lords deprived of his Majoralty never to beare Office in City or Common-wealth and to continue prisoner during the pleasure of the House The King being at York publisheth a Grand Declaration of all the proceedings from the beginning of this Parliament to this present time concluding with a solemn Protestation of his affections to Parliaments and the peace and happiness of the Kingdome and within few dayes sends a Message to the Parliament taxing them with borrowing 100000 l. out of the Adventures money for the reliefe of Ireland to which they returne a speedy answer The King in person moveth from place to place On the 22 of July he made a Speech to the Gentry in Leicestershire on the 4th of August to the Gentry in Yorkshire and that war might not want its solemnity on the 20 of August he sets up his Standard Royall at Nottingham and by Proclamation requires the ayd and assistance of all his Subjects on the North side Trent and within twenty miles Southward thereof for his just defence and that whosoever shall supply him with money and plate he as God shall enable him will repay and reward accordin gto the measure of their love and affection to him and their Country On the 25 of August 1642. from Nottingham the King sends a Message to both Houses by the Earles of Southampton and Dorset and Sir John Culpepper for a treaty of peace and that an equall number may be chosen to meet where they should appoint that there may if possible be an accommodation out of a deep sense of the Calamities that attend the Kingdome To which they answer That untill he recalls that Proclamation which proclaimes them Rebells and takes down his Standard they will by no meanes heare of it To which he replyes That to remove all scruples that may hinder the Treaty by him so much desired so that a day be appointed by the Parliament for revoking their Declarations against all persons as traytors assisting him he will with all chearfulness on the same day recall his Proclamations and take down his Standard and likewise promised to grant any thing that should be for the good of his subjects assuring them that his greatest desire was to get a right understanding To which they humbly answer and petition that his Majesty would take down his Standard withdraw his Declarations and leave his Forces and returne to the Parliament and receive their faithfull advice of whose reall affection he need not to doubt Within few dayes the King sends a second reply That he could neither doe nor offer any more then he had already and that he should think himselfe cleare fromany blood that might be spilt in this quarrell The Parliament give encouragement to the well affected that what moneys they should lend should be satisfied out of Delinquents estates and declare that whosoever shall returne from the King to the Parliament within ten dayes shall be pardoned excepting the Duke of Richmond the Earles of Newcastle Cumberland Bristoll Rivers and Carnarvan Mr. Edward Hide Endimion Porter Secretary Nicholas Vicount New-wark Vicount Haltland The Parliament being Inform'd that the Queen was soliciting the States of Holland to contribute Armes and Ammunition for the King send Mr. Walter Strickland a Member of the House over into Holland with Credentiall Letters They likewise drew up a Declaration to the States of Holland to satisfie them of their whole proceedings Prince Rupert and Prince Maurice in September arrive in England and offer their service to their Uncle who were immediatly put into Command Prince Rupert with a small body of Horse flew up and downe through diverse Counties and gained a considerable body together The King himself moves though with a slower pace and had gotten a great number together marches to Shrewsbury a place of great concernment as being the Inlet to Wales where he orders a Mint to melt down the plate which
advance from Colebrooke to Branford eight miles from London fell upon Collonell Hollis his men which quarter'd there but the Lord Brooks and Collonell Hamdens Regiments came speedily to their reliefe and for a time maintained a bloody fight The Earle of Essex was sitting in the House when the news was brought who immediately horst and with what strength he could hastens to meete the King but night approaching the King retired All that night vast numbers of Souldiers flockt from the City above three times the number of the Kings Army and they had hem'd hm in on every side had not Kingston bridge been left destitute over which the Kings traine of Artillery was drawne whilst a body of Horse faced the Enemy and then retired toward Oxford The Parliament orders the Generall to follow him and fight him The Kings Forces in the North under the Command of the Earle of Newcastle and the Earle of Cumberland being 8000 Horse and foote were too potent for the Lord Fairfax Lieutenant for the Parliament The Earle marches to tadcaster where the Lord Fairfax and Captaine Hotham were fell on the Towne and forc't the Lord Fairfax with some loss to quit the Towne and march to Cauwod and Selby for supplyes for his Army Sir Thomas Fairfax is sent to Leeds with diverse Troopes of Horse but was forc't to retire In December Goring with Armes money and eighty old Commanders with the Queens Standard arrives from Holland and joynes with the Earle of Newcastle The Counties of Norfolk Suffolk Cambridge Hartford Essex associate and the Lord Gray of Wark is appointed Major Generall over them The Parliaments Forces possesse themselves of Winchester and Chichester The Parliament send Propositions to Oxford by four Lords and eight Commoners To which the King returnes a speedy answer The Queen arrives the 16 of Feb. 1642. and brings over Arms money and Ammunition with her from Holland The Earle of Montross and the Lord Ogle present their service to her at York with two Troops of Horse which she afterward made up a considerable body The Earle of Essex in the Spring marcht forth of his winter quarters resolving to besiege Reading which was possest by the Kings Forces in it was 3000 Souldiers and twenty pieces of Ordinance the Generall sits downe before it in Aprill 1643. with an Army of 16000 foote and 3000 Horse which after sixteen dayes was delivered up on easie conditions by the Deputy Governour Collonell Fielding Sir Arthur Aston the Governour being indisposed by reason of his wounds At Cirencister was the most considerable party for the Parliament in all those parts Prince Rupert with a considerable Army marches against it the Towne not being fortified he falls on with a furious assault which at first was Gallantly received but after two houres dispute possest himselfe of the Towne the most part of the Earle of Stamfords Regiment being cut off seized a considerable Magazine with above 3000 Armes and eleven hundred persons which were conveyed to Oxford Immediately he faces Glocester summons the City To which Massey Replyed That he kept the City for King and Parliament and would not deliver it to any forraine Prince The Army in Wales raised for the King advance toward Glocester and in their march fall on a Regiment of Collonell burroughs which they rout diverse Officers being slaine took fifty prisoners and so march on to Glocester News was brought to the Parliament of a considerable defeat given to their forces in Devonshire and that Prince Maurice and the Marquesse of Hartford had Intentions to secure all the West for the King And not long after there was a discovery made for the betraying of Bristoll but by timely notice it was prevented and the Conspirators executed Likewise a discovery was made in London of a plot to settle the Kings Commission of Array for which Mr. Tomkins and Mr. Chaloner were both Executed The Lord Brookes a very active man for the Parliament being in Staffordshire with his Forces with Intentions to dissipate those Gentlemen that were got together for the King advances to Litchfield The Earle of Chesterfeild had some Forces in the Towne for the King who upon the Lord Brookes his advance to the Towne quits it and retires with his Forces to the Close which was far more tenable then the Towne Brookes takes possession of the Towne and being in a Window peeping to watch an advantage against the Enemy was shot into the Eye and died immediately His Souldiers notwithstanding the losse of their chiefe Commander fall on with much resolution and after a short dispute possest themselves of the Church and Close took the Earle of Chesterfeild with divers Commanders and many common Souldiers Prince Rupert immediatly lays siege to Litchfield and having notice of the advance of some of the Parliaments forces under the Command of Brereton and Gell to raise the siege drew out neer a thousand Horse and Dragoones fell on the enemy which they put to flight and by their flight left Bag and baggage to the Kings forces with divers pieces of Ordinance and many prisoners But the Earle of Northampton Charging in the head of the body was slaine they returne to the siege spring a mine and scale the walls whereupon the besieged desire a Parly and on reasonable conditions quit the Towne In May 1643. the Lords and Commons Vote that an Act be past for an Assembly of Divines immediately to be call'd to settle Religion They likewise Vote the making of a new Great Seale a thing never heard or read of in the Natition which Mr. Prin defens in his book entituled The opening of the Great Seale of England Sir John Hotham sends word to the Earle of Newcastle that Hull and Lincolne shall be deliver'd up to him for the service of his Majesty and both father and son resolve to stand on their own Guard at Hull Mr Jermin Generalissimo for the Queen was at New-wark who levying a considerable party for the securing of the County she with thirty Companies of Horse and Dragoones and three thousand foote meets the King at Edghill it being the first time she saw him since her departure into Holland The King and Queen retire to Oxford The Parliament draw up Articles of High Treason against the Queen That she had pawned the Jewells of the Crowne raised the Rebellion in Ireland endeavoured to raise a party in Scotland against the Parliament that she had appeared in the head of a Popish party which was at last past by both Houses They likewise Vote that the King and Queens revenue should be detained and imployed in the publick service They likewise Voted a new and unheard of tax to be laid upon Beer Wine Tobacco and whatsoever is necessary for support of life which they call'd Excize Sir John Hotham and his son are both taken prisoners by Sir Matthew Beynton their estates seazed and confiscate Sir John endeavouring to escape was knockt downe by a Souldier at the same Gate
that he denied the King Entrance They are both sent by Sea prisoners to the Parliament and Sir Matthew took possession of the Towne June 17. 1643. The Earle of Essex at Tane orders the Buckingham Forces to beat up the Kings quarters which accordingly they did Prince Rupert having notice of it falls in with a body of Horse Routed and disperst most of the party There was slaine the Earle of Musgraves Son and Mr. Hamden one of the five Impeached Members a man violently active against the King At that time the Parliaments Army was much visited with the Contagion many dying daily On the fift of July was a great defeat given to Sir William Waller in the West after he had continued there victoriously for some time by a party from Oxford conducted by the Lord Wilmot which defeate gave a great Check to the Parliament The Generall by reason of the sicknesse and other great wants of his Army marches towards London quartering them at Kingston on Thames and other adjacent places Great were the successes of the King almost in every part of the Kingdome for Sir William Waller was quite routed in the West Sir Ralph Hopton in the head of a Gallant Army upon whom the King was pleased for his fidelity and Valour to confer the Honour and Title of a Baron Prince Rupert was order'd to besiege Bristoll which in short time was deliver'd to him Prince Maurice besieged Exceter whither the Earle of Stamford was fled which on the fourth of September 1643 was diliver'd up to him upon Articles Sir John Barkly was made Governour The Lord Fairfax Sir Thomas Fairfax and most of the Parliaments forces in the North were defeated driven into Hull by the Lord of Newcastle who at that time commanded the Greatest Army in England and not onely able to terrifie the Parliaments Forces in England but likewise formidable to any Scotch forces that should come to their assistance Collonell Goring landed at Newcastle with 200 old Souldiers The Earle of Newcastle in his march from Tadcaster surprized Leeds and in it diverse persons of quality friends to the Parliament he likewise proclaimes the Lord Fairfax traytor The King in the Head of a Gallant Army summons Glocester offering free pardon and protection to the Inhabitants if they would lay downe their Armes requiring a positive answer in two houres In the Interim he surrounds the Towne with six thousand Horse and foote by the time appointed the Magistrates Officers and Souldiers returne this answer That they kept the Towne for his Majesty and his Royall posterity and doe accordingly conceive our selves wholly bound to obey the Commands of his Majesty signified by both Houses of Parliament and are resolved by Gods Help to keep the City accordingly The King stood amazed at their confidence for at that time they could not hope for reliefe In the Towne was onely one Regiment of foote an hundred Horse beside the trained bands in all not exceeding fifteen hundred men The King resolves to lay a close siege and a considerable party Intrencht on the South and East side though they within sallied out with some damage to the Kings forces the Welsh and Worcestershire forces on the North west side Generall Ruthen on the South-side the East and South parts were dam'd up with Earth They within make no lesse then eight sallies in ten dayes with no small prejudice to the besiegers The King prepares for a storme which with much valour was performed on both sides a mine was sprung under the East gate which they countermand by the industry of Collonell Massey the Governour The Parliament being inform'd of the Kings Intentions toward Glocester order the Generall to march out who mustred about 10000 Horse and foote at Hounslow and so marches forward for the reliefe of the Towne They likewise took care for recruiting an Army for Sir William Waller The Generall being come within seven miles of Glocester fired some pieces of Ordinance to give notice of his approach On the first of September a party of Horse is sent to face him whilst the King drew off from the siege Many of the Kings friends much blamed him for sitting downe before the Towne when he might without difficulty have come to London and fully ended the work for the Parliament were never in so low a condition since the beginning of the warre as they were when the King first sat downe before the Towne The Lords House being sensible of the danger Uote a Treaty and the Commons were consulting of it The Parliament sent to require the assistance of their brethren of Scotland and Vote 30000 l. be instantly borrowed for their advance The Solemne League and Covenant was drawn up and taken by all the Members of both Houses and orderd to be Imposed on all the associated Counties Doctor Featly a reverend and learned Divine was Imprisoned for refusing to take it The King immediately sends out his Proclamation against it in these words Whereas there is printed a paper pretended to be order'd by the Commons in Parliament on the 21 of September last to be printed and published which Covenant though it seemes to make specious expressions of piety and religion it is indeed nothing else but a traiterous and seditious combination against him and against the established religion and Lawes of this Kingdome in pursuance of a traiterous designe and endeavour to bring in forraine forces to invade this Kingdome his Majesty doth therefore straitly charge and command all his loving subjects of what degree and quality soever upon their allegiance that they presume not to take the said seditious and traiterous Covenant most straitly forbidding all his subjects to tender the said Covenant as they will answer the contrary at their extreamest perill The Earle of Bedford and Holland came to Oxford to tender their allegiance to the King but after a short stay return'd to the Parliament The Marquesse of Ormond the Kings Lieutetenant Generall in Ireland upon the Kings Letter sends over five Regiments of Souldiers for the Kings service every Officer and Souldier first took an Oath to defend the Protestant cause and the Kings person against all enemies Essex suddenly surprizes Cirencester by killing the Centery marcht into the Towne without any opposition and in it took Great store of Armes and Ammunition with thirty Cart Load of provisions which was there reserv'd for the Kings Army From thence he marches to Chilleton The Kings Forces drew up on Maverne hills The Earle of Essex drew off toward Hungerford and from thence toward Newbery which the Kings Forces had possest before-hand On Wednesday the 20 of September 1643. was fought the famous battell of Newbery on which depended the condition of the whole Kingdome The Kings Forces early in the morning had possest themselves of Biggs hill Essex his own Regiment assisted with Collonell Barkleys and Collonell Holburnes Regiment marcht and Charging furiously beate them from the Hill and possest it By this time a great
body of the Kings Horse fell on a party of Horse commanded by Sir Philip Stapleton who received the Charge with much resolution and beate the Enemy up to their maine body The fight continued till neer night The London Trained bands and Auxiliaries behaved themselves with much Valour and resolution The number of the dead was not certainly known There were diverse persons of quality slaine and wounded on the Kings side as likewise diverse Colours were taken and sent up to London Collonell Massey from Glocester moves up and downe with a party of Horse and doth much mischiefe to the Kings Forces The Kings forces Garrison all round about Glocester a party of the Kings Horse and foote rove up and down and seaze upon diverse good booties But the Kings maine body was orderd toward Reading which was then besieged by Essex Arundell Castle having been 28 dayes besieged by Sir William Waller was deliver'd on Conditions The King in December 1643. summons the Members of both Houses to appeare in January following at Oxford to advise in setling the peace of the Kingdome where on the 22th of January they meet at the Great Hall in Christ-Church where his Majesty declar'd That if he had the least thoughts of disagreeing with the happinesse of this Kingdome he would not advise with such Councellers as they were The Lords sat in the Upper Schooles the Commons in the Great Convocation House There were assembled the Prince the Duke of York Cumberland Fr. Cottington Treasurer Ed. Littleton Keeper of the Seale the Duke of Richmond and Marquesse of Hartford 19 Earles 18 Lords 126 Knights and Gentlemen beside a Great quantity of Noblemen Knights and Gentlemen imployed in his Majesties service in the severall parts of the Kingdome Their first work was to endeavour a peace to which purpose a Letter is sent to the Earle of Essex which he communicates to the House at Westminster On the 16 of January 1644. The Scots Army consisting of 18000 foote and 2000 Horse enter England by the way of Newcastle and set forth a Declaration of the justness of their Cause the Lawfulness of their Call New-wark having been three weeks besieged by Sir John Meldram with an Army of 7000. Prince Rupert with a body of 4000 Horse and Dragoones and 1000 foote raises the siege The Lord Fairfax and his Son Sir Thomas goe on victoriously in the North and in severall Encounters gave diverse defeats to the Earle of Newcastles forces The Parliament at Oxford having sat from January to Aprill and done no great matter the King after a Speech prorogues them to the 8 of October and afterwards by Proclamation till the 9 of November The Queen went from Oxford toward the West of England in order to her going over into France was attended the first dayes journey by her two eldest Sons and many of the Nobility The King in presence of the Peeres at Oxford received the Sacrament from the hands of Bishop Vsher using these solemne Protestations My Lords I espie here many resolv'd Protestants who may declare to the world the Resolution I doe now make I have to the utmost of my power prepar'd my soule to become a worthy receiver and may I so receive comfort by the blessed Sacrament as I doe intend the Establishment of the true reformed Protestant Religion as it stood in its beauty in the happy dayes of Queen Elizabeth without any connivance at Popery I blesse God that in the midst of these publick distractions I have still liberty to communicate and may this Sacrament be my damnation if my heart doe not joyne with my lips in this Protestation The Countesse of Darby held out Latham House against a considerable force of the Parliaments for neer 18 weeks The besiegers hearing of Prince Ruperts advance for the Countesses reliefe drew off from the siege upon which they sally out and did great Execution upon the Enemy The Parliament at Westminster Vote it treason for any Member of either House to desert them and goe to the King and the Member or Members so doing never to be receiv'd more into the House In June 1644. Collonell Massey summons Malborrough which was commanded by Collonell Hen. Howard who refusing to deliver it up to him causes a Great battery and with some Great Ordinance forc't his passage who with much Courage enters the Towne put the Enemy to flight and took above a hundred prisoners Sir William Waller with a body of Horse and foote attends the Kings motion from place to place and neere Crepida bridge the Kings Horse faced Sir William and Charg'd them through and through kill'd 150 men and took all his Traine of Artillery together with diverse considerable Officers prisoners The King presently marches to Bath with intent to follow the Earle of Essex who was gone that way On the 23 of July 1644. he came to Kingsmore and by the first of August came to Liskard some few miles distant where he encompast the Earle of Essex his Army his Majesty and Prince Maurice at Boneke on the one side Sir Richard Greenvill in Bodnim and Sir Jacob Astley at Hall The Kings Souldiers were very desirous to fight but it was thought more convenient to keep them up from provisions In eight dayes attendance very little was performed but some small skirmishes of Horse a party of 1500 foote was sent West to prevent all provisions coming that way Essex his Army marcht toward Foy leaving most of their great Pieces behind them the King followed and fell in upon the reare forc't them to retire in disorder and had not night prevented in all probability the whole Army had been destroyed The next morning Early the Earle of Essex quit his command and went by boate to Plimouth They require a Parly and chose Collonell Barkley Collonell Whichcot and Collonell Butler on the Parliaments party On the Kings side Prince Maurice the Lord Generall and the Lord Digby in eight Articles the agreement was made to deliver up all their Artillery with all their bag and baggage no person under the degree of a Corporall to weare any kind of weapon all Officers above onely sword and pistoll There were accordingly deliver'd up 49 Pieces of Brasse Ordinance 200 barrells of powder with bullet and match proportionable 9000 Armes for Horse and foote some thousands of the common Souldiers were immediately upon their desire entertain'd in his Majesties service Essex endeavoureth to excuse it to the Parliament as if by reason of Wallers not pursuing the Kings Army Yet notwithstanding this Great Victory the King sends a Message to both Houses of Parliament for a peace and likewise a Letter to the Earle of Essex to the same purpose The Nobility likewise subscribe a Letter to the Earle of Essex The King from Tavestoke sends another Letter to both Houses for an accommodation but the Parliament were so averse that nothing could prevaile The Parliament at Oxford met againe but unfortunately they fell into divisions and factions
which the King plainly perceived could produce no good effect in March following he dissolves them Not long after the Estates of the Low Countries send over Ambassadours to mediate in behalfe of a peace betwixt the King and Parliament Prince Rupert goes on Victoriously with a flying Army relieves Bolton Stopford and Leverpoole advances to York in his way Raises the siege of Latham House which was at that time besieged by the Parliaments Forces Upon his approach the Enemy drew off their siege They within sally out and doe some mischiefe to the reare of the Enemy The Prince pursues them with a Resolution to give them Battaile At last he comes to York upon whose approach the besiegers drew off the Prince follows intending to fight them and accordingly the third of July 1644 at seven a clock in the morning the fight began the Parliaments Forces having the advantage of the ground being on the South side of Marston Moore within four miles of York the Prince with the Right wing fell on the Parliaments Forces routs them the Generall Goring and Sir Charles Lucas fell on the maine body of the Enemy and routed them but pursuing them too far the Enemy Rallied and fell on the divided bodyes totally disperst them took 3000 prisoners 20 pieces of Ordinance beside a considerable quantity of Officers Immediately the Lord Fairfax and his Son the Earle of Manchester surround York Sir Thomas Glenham being then Governour for the King but by reason of Marston-Moore-fight all their powder and Ammunition was spent Sir Thomas was compeld to deliver it on honourable tearmes In December 1644 William Lord Archbishop of Canterbury after above an hundred times Attendance on the House was by the Commons Voted Guilty of High Treason and therefore condemn'd to be hang'd drawne and quarter'd which sentence he patiently received but upon his Petition they Vote him to be beheaded he likewise Petitions for his Chaplain Dr Sterne to whom they joyne Mr Marshall whom he refused for the Comfort of his soule and accordingly on the tenth of January he was conducted by Penington to the scaffold on Tower-hill where he made his last Sermon to the people enlarging himselfe on this Text Heb. 12. and 2d Let us run with patience the race that is set before us looking unto Jesus the Author and finisher of our faith who for the Joy that was set before him endured the Crosse and despised the shame and is now set downe at the Right hand of the throne of God which Sermon or Speech continued almost an houre and after prayer and some short Ejaculations laid down his head upon the block which the Executioner struck off at one blow and thus with much patience and Christian magnanimity he deliver'd up his soule to God Sir John Hotham in December 1644. was sentenc't to loose his head Captain Hotham was likewise Condemn'd and Executed the first of January Sir John the second of January on Tower-bill Not long after there was a treaty of peace appointed at Vxbridge The Commissioners on both sides being met the Proposals on both sides were made but all hopes of peace were frustrate Mr Love was much complained of who preaching there told them That the Kings Commissioners came with hearts full of blood and that there is as great distance between this treaty and peace as between heaven and hell for which in stead of being checkt he is taken into favour by the Parliament In March 1645. Sir Lewis Dives took Waymouth for the King In which was good store of Ordinance and all other provisions answerable with forty small Vessells in the Harbour The Kings Forces lay siege to Melcomb Regis Crumwell intends to joyne with Waller for its reliefe They of the Garrison of Plimouth issue out and beate the Kings Forces from Mount Stamford and took 150 prisoners Sir Marmaduke Langdale went out of Oxford with 2000 Horse and Dragoones fell upon the Lincolnshire Horse and forc't them to retire confusedly having taken two compleate troops marcht forward with Intentions to cause the Parliaments Forces to draw off thereby to relieve New-wark Belvoire Ashby de la zouch with provision to enable them to hold out the longer when they shall be attempted They likewise endeavour the reliefe of Pomfret Castle but my Lord Fairfax is ready with a body to receive him However Sir Marmaduke advances falls on the Enemy and after he had kild and taken diverse hundreds relieves the Castle and returnes to New-wark from thence to Litchfeild that thereby he may make choice either of going to Oxford or joyning with Prince Maurice The King at Oxford takes care to furnish it as also Wallingford and Banbury with all necessary provisions for six moneths and to get a formidable Army into the field this Summer The House of Lords made the Earle of Northumberland and his Lady Governour and Governesse of the Kings Children at Whitehall The Earle of Northampton lying at Banbury with foure hundred Horse fell on the Northampton Horse routed and kild many Major Generall Browne at Abbington sent out severall parties at times who returned very successfull with good store of provisions having kild diverse of the Enemy The Commons conceive the Earle of Essex too mild in the prosecution of the warre he having had such ill successe in the West and began to thinke of New Moddelling the Army to which purpose a Bill is brought into the House for Sir Thomas Fairfax to be Generall They likewise Vote the Earle of Essex to pacifie him 10000 l. per Annum out of Delinquents estates Both Houses Vote Sir Thomas Fairfax a Gentleman descended from a Noble and ancient family to be Generall for the Parliament who with much modesty accepted of it On the first of Aprill he issued out Commissions and on the third of Aprill went privately to Windsor to assist in the New Moddelling of the Army They likewise continued Lieutenant Generall Cromwell a stout Champion for his Country who having received his Commission immediately marcht and found the Enemy and ingag'd them at Ipsley Bridge the Enemies Brigade consisted of the Queens Colonell Wilmots the Earle of Northampton and Colonel Palmers Regiments Routed them kild many took 500 Horse and 200 prisoners together with the Queens Standard and pursues them to blechingdon-Blechingdon-house which Colonel Windebank kept for the King He sends a sharp Summons to the Governour to be speedily answered The Governour doubting of reliefe from Oxford immediately surrenders the House with all the Armes and Ammunition Cromwell immediately slighted the house and sent the Armes to Alsbury For which Windebank was sentenc't by a Councell of War at Oxford to be shot to death The Generall having compleated the Army was at a losse which way he should steere his course either to Oxford or the West Oxford was the Kings chiefe Garrison and there lay the most part of his traine of Artillery which if he could take would be of very great consequence but the distressed estate of Taunton
Left wing Routs them pursues them to Naseby Towne and being too eager of the plunder lost the King the day for in his absence Lieutenant Generall Cromwell Charges furiously on the Kings Left Wing and forc't them to retire from the body Sir Thomas Fairfax with the maine body advances falls on the Kings body who received them with much Valour and courage Great Rallyings there was on both sides and for a long time the battell was fought with Equall Courage but it pleased God to give the Victory to the Parliaments Forces for upon their Rallying they recovered Courage and Charged with greater fury forcing the Kings Forces to fly and had the pursuite of them within two miles of Leicester which is neere fourteen miles They left behind them all their traine of Artillery bag and baggage many were slaine 4000 taken prisoners 200 Wagons 3000 Horse many Officers of note On the Parliaments side about 1000 Officers and Common Souldiers diverse Officers wounded Great were the successes of the Parliament in diverse places In the field was taken the Kings Cabinet of Letters which were sent up to the Parliament and by them published The Marquesse of Winchester held out Basing House for the King a long time after it was besieged The Parliaments Forces despairing of gaining it drew off This was the last pitcht Battell that ever the King fought The King with some forces fled to Leicester and not conceiving himselfe safe by reason of the Parliaments forces advance goes to Ashbe de la Zouch where after he had rested himselfe a small time in the dead of the night went to Litchfield and so into Wales Sir Marmaduke Langdale fled the same night to New-wark Munday the 16 of June the Parliaments Generall and Army comes before Leicester The Generall summons the Governour immediately to deliver the Towne with all the Armes and Ammunition the Lord Hastings being Governour returnes answer that he would not deliver it but hold it out to the last man which occasioned the Generall to Issue out Warrants to summon the Country to bring in Ladders and things necessary for a storme And on the 17 of June they began to storme the Governour perceiving the danger sends a Trumpet to desire a parly for the delivery of the Towne which was concluded in then Articles and the next day the Towne was delivered up In it was 14 piece of Ordinance 30 Colours 2000 Armes 500 Horse with diverse other necessaries for warre The King returnes for Hereford with 2000 foote that Major Generall Gerhard had raised in Wales for him and posts over Severne toward Bristoll Prince Rupert following him with 3000 Horse Sir William Brereton in Shropshire sell on a party of the Kings routed them and took 300 prisoners Not long after Sir Thomas Glenham Governour of Carlile for the King having been a considerable time besieg'd and having no hopes of Reliefe delivers up the Towne on honourable Conditions Sir Thomas Fairfax marches with the best part of the Army to the Reliefe of Taunton then besieged by Goring At that time there was in the West a multitude of Rude people called Clubmen who declaring for the King did great mischiefe to diverse of the Parliaments Garrisons they boldly Capitulate with Sir Thomas Fairfax at Dorchester and desire safe passage for such as they should appoint to goe both to the King and Parliament in order to an Accommodation Sir Thomas civilly sends them an answer which not answering their expectation and fearing to oppose so potent an Army they draw off in discontent not without doing some mischiefe to the Governour of Linne then for the Parliament Upon the news of Sir Thomas Fairfax his arrivall within a dayes march of Taunton Goring draws off his forces the besieged sally out and forced the reare to retreate in disorder upon the Enemies flight the Army advances falls upon the Reare and took diverse prisoners They still pursuing at last engaged Goring at Langport whom they worsted and put to flight having taken diverse Colours some Armes and Ammunition The Generall returnes with the Army and resolves to besiege Bridgewater and having staid some time till supplyes came he closely begirts the Towne summons the Governour who returnes a resolute answer being every way well fortified and provided The Generall resolves to storme it on Munday the 22 of July 1645. Which accordingly was performed with much Resolution but the enemy within being nothing daunted fling Granadoes and other combustible stuffe to the prejudice of the besiegers The Generall the next day sends a Message telling them that their deniall had wrought in him no thoughts of Compassion but onely to women and children who might otherwise suffer by the Governours obstinacy and accordingly diverse Ladyes and Gentlewomen and Children came out of the Towne The Generall assaults them againe and at last compells them to a surrender they all to submit themselves prisoners and the Towne to be preserved from plunder which accordingly was performed Immediately after Pomfret and Scarborough Castles were surrendred no Reliefe being expected Toward the latter end of July the Generall summon'd Bath which was accordingly surrendred In August 1645. Lieutenant Generall Cromwell falls on the Club-men who at that time were very high and insolent kills diverse and took above 300 prisoners The Generall summons Sherburne Castle of which Sir Lewis Dives was Governour who return'd a resolute answer but the next day was taken by storme The Generall immediately resolves to besiege Bristoll which was govern'd by Prince Rupert Orders were sent for Ships to begirt it by Sea he summons the Governour who refusing to surrender immediately he surrounds it they within sally out six or seven times not without losse on both sides at last it was agreed to send a positive summons and upon refusall to storme it The Prince requires leave to know the Kings minde but the Generall would by no meanes permit it Upon the Princes refusall at a Councell of War it was resolv'd to storme it which accordingly was with much Courage performed the Towne was fired in many places which moved the Prince to request a parly which the Generall consented too on condition that care should be taken to quench the fire and accordingly by Articles of agreement the 11 of September 1645. The City with all the Armes Ammunition was deliver'd up The Prince with the rest immediately march to Oxford During the time of Bristolls siege news was brought of the severall successes of Montrosse in Scotland against the Covenanters which moved the Generall Lieutenant Generall and all the Colonels of the Regiments to subscribe a Letter to General Leaven of the Condition of the Kingdome and their willingnesse to spare forces for their assistance All this while the King moves up and downe sometimes in Wales sometimes in one County sometimes in another still hearing the mishaps and disasters hapning on the neck one of another so that all his hopes were almost frustrate Lieutenant General Cromwell
enemies to the State Petitions were likewise on the other side out of Essex and other Counties presented to the Parliament of their utter dislike of the Armyes proceedings But to close the breach Commissioners are chosen by the Parliament and Army and meete in order to a Right understanding The Parliament order 60000 l. a moneth for payment of the Forces appointed to prevent free quarter Upon his Majesties desire to come neere London the Lords Vote him to come to Otelands so soone as the House can be provided to which the Commissioners consent After his Majesty had been neere five moneths at Holmbey on the fourth of June 1646. neare a thousand Souldiers Commanded by Cornet Joyce came somewhat late to Holmbey and desired to speake with his Majesty it was answered that then it was unseasonable However with much Importunity Cornet Joyce was admitted into his Majesties presence where he tould him he was come by command of the Army to remove him from that place his Majesty replyed it was then too late but in the morning he would speak further with him His Majesty according to his promise came downe in the morning to the Cornet where he was attended by the Souldiers he askt them by what Authority they came there they replyed from the Army He further askt if they came from Sir Thomas Fairfax his Army the Cornet replyed from the Army His Majesty said what if I should refuse to goe with you would you compell me they replyed we hope your Majesty will not refuse but we have command to bring you His Majesty replyed I have these Questions to put to you which if you consent to I will goe with you The first was That he might have no violence offer'd to his person they all unanimously shouted and cryed out none none Secondly He desired that his trunks and papers might not be rifled and tumbled they promised to set a Guard on them and that they should not be toucht Thirdly He requir'd such servants to attend him against whom there was no just acceptions they answered he should Lastly He desired that nothing be Imposed upon him contrary to his Conscience they answered it was not their Judgement to force-any thing against conscience on any one much lesse on his Majesty At one of the Clock his Majesty went along with them The next day the Generall sent a Letter to the Parliament to certifie that he knew nothing of the party that attended his Majesty neither what number nor by what Authority the reason that the party had sent to him he sends up which was that there were certaine persons that intended to take away his Majesty thereby to make a new warre the plot and plotters they were able to prove when call'd thereunto which necessitated them to secure his Majesties person His Majesty was according to his own desire convey'd to Newmarket by this we see clearely that the Greatest in the world are but pilgrims on Earth The Generall and Army Randevouz at St Albones and sent a Letter of his Intentions to come to London with the Army Eleven Members of the Commons House are Impeached by the Army On the 28 of June 1647. His Majesty was brought to Hatfield the Duke of Richmond attending him with many of the old Courtiers Dr Hamond and diverse others of his Chaplains were admitted to read divine service to him according to the Ancient custome of the Church of England The House being Informed of the Duke of Richmond and the Chaplains attendants on his Majesty Order a Letter to be forthwith sent to the Governour for their removall The Generall by Letters certifie the Parliament of his Majesties desire to see his Children and his request for continuance of those persons about him and further to satisfie them that the Army have no treaty with his Majesty nor ayme at nothing more then the setling of the peace of the Kingdome From Hatfield his Majesty was removed to Causum attended by all that waited on him at Hatfield excepting the Duke of Richmond who voluntarily absented himselfe The House according to the Kings request order his Children to goe to him and the Earle of Northumberland to attend them his Majesty was Joyfull at the sight of his Children The Generall being in the presence Chamber was much respected which moved the Princess to aske who it was who being Inform'd it was the Generall she immediately addrest her selfe to him with great civilitie and thankt him for this great happinesse that she then enjoyed the sight of her deare Father effected by him alone which she should ever thankfully acknowledge and endeavour to requite The Generall return'd humble thankes and that what he had done was but the least of those duties he was oblig'd to serve his Majesty and Children in and kissing her Hand withdrew The Eleven Members discharge themselves of their charge and require leave of the House to goe beyond Sea which was consented too Upon the Armyes removing to Bedford his Majesty was brought to Wooborne a House of the Lord of Bedfords with his old attendance The Parliament Order the Militia of London to raise Forces and immediately the Train'd Bands and Auxiliaries are commanded to man the Forts upon Information of the Armyes coming to London Colonell Massey was appointed Major Generall Colonell Poins and others are put into Command The Generall Orders a Randevouz at Hounslow in order to his coming to London thither diverse of the Members of both Houses with the Speaker repaire and consult of Getting the Citie without blood and accordingly a party is sent to face Southwark Fort upon whose approach it was deliver'd up to them The City petitions the Generall The Generall requires all the Forts from Tyburne to the Thames to be delivered up to him that he might Guard the Parliament and secure the eleven Members On the seventh of August the Generall and Army march in triumph through the City most of the Souldiers having Bays in their hatts in token of Victory Immediately Sir Thomas Fairfax is made Constable of the Tower by which he hath power to constitute a Lieutenant and accordingly the Honour was conferd on Colonell Titchburne Massey and Poyns fly over into Holland The Generall presents a Declaration to the House of the Grounds and reasons of the Armyes March The Lords and Commons Null all those Votes that past during the time that the Major part of the House went to the Generall On the twelfth of August was appointed a thanksgiving for the preservation of the City His Majesty was remov'd to Oatlands on the 23 of August he went to Sion to visit his Children and rested that night Upon his Majesties desire he was remov'd to Hampton Court and his Children orderd to be with him Both Houses order the Casting downe of the Workes about the City the maintaining whereof was very chargeable and burthensome The Houses Vote of sending Propositions to his Majesty to which the Scotch Commissioners consent and on the seventh of
prevent his ruine they therefore desire his Majesty may come to London to treate with Honour freedome and safety and that neither he nor his Parliament be Inviron'd with Souldiers that so their consultations being free all differences may be ended by a personall Treaty the best way to settle a sure and lasting peace See the uncertainty of men in the world that those very Scots that had not long before declared that it was altogether Inconvenient for the Parliament to admit his Majesty to come to London untill he had given satisfaction to their just and reasonable desires should now desire the King to come to London which at that time swarm'd with Malignants apt for any tumult nay the Parliament it selfe at that time could not sit with safety without an Army to guard them On the 23 of November 1647. both Houses Voted not to have any personall Treaty with his Majesty Yet after three dayes debate in the House they conclude that foure Propositions be drawne up in forme of Acts to be sent to his Majesty to signe which when he had signed they would admit a personall Treaty at London The Propositions were as followeth 1. That a Bill may be past into an Act by his Majesty for setling the Militia of the Kingdome 2. A Bill be past by his Majesty calling in all his Declarations Oathes Proclamations against the Parliament and those that have adhered to them 3. To passe an Act that those Lords who were made after the Great Seale was carried to Oxford may be made uncapable of sitting in the House of Peeres thereby 4. That power may be given to the two Houses to adjurne as the two Houses of Parliament shall thinke fit On the 30 of November the King sent a Letter to the Generall and Army by Sir John Barkley desiring their furtherance of a personall treaty with a promise of Recompence when all should be setled To which answer was return'd that they had wholly left it to the Parliament and that they would be passive The Army sent a large Declaration to both Houses taxing them with neglect contrary to promise and laying forth the wants of the Army by reason they had not expedited their pay which must necessitate them to take free quarter and be burthensome to the subjects if not by them timely prevented His Majesty sent another Letter to the Lords wherein he expresseth himselfe that if any thing had been of more concernment then the peace of this Kingdome he would with patience have expected an answer to his former Letter but his tender affection to his subjects welfare hath prevalency with him to presse a personall Treaty and Intimates that if the Houses please that he come among them it will no doubt speed a good end The Lords and Commons according to their former order Vote the Lord Qenbigh and the Lord Mountague for the Upper House Mr Lisle Mr Goodwin Mr Kemp and Mr Bulncley for the Commons to carry the four Propositions to his Majesty which if he signe they will admit of a personall Treaty The Scots Commissioners likewise went to his Majesty and after some conference with him declare against the four Bills to this effect That they had endeavour'd by all wayes and meanes with the Parliament of England for the furthering of a happy peace but having seene the Propositions now brought to his Majesty they apprehend them to be prejudiciall to Religion the Crowne and the Vnion betwixt both Kingdomes and therefore in the name of the Kingdome of Scotland declare their dissent Colonell Hamond wrote a Letter to the Parliament that he could not secure his Majesty unlesse they would allow him more strength there being so great a concourse into the Isleland upon which the Commons order that his Majesties person be secured and more Forces be sent for the security of the Island The Commissioners return'd with a large Message from his Majesty shewing the Grounds and reasons why he cannot passe any thing till the whole Treaty be concluded on professing he is willing to give any reasonable satisfaction to whatsoever shall be requir'd He now againe earnestly presses for a personall Treaty of which he will not despaire there being no visible way left for the Kingdomes peace but by it However his Majesty is at peace and quietnesse within himselfe in having fulfild the offices both of a Christian and a King and will patiently waite the good pleasure of Almightie God to incline the hearts of his two Houses to consider their King and compassionate their fellow subjects miseries It s very observable that his Majesty received the Parliaments Commissioners very gratefully desiring them all to be assistants to him in promoting a wel = grounded peace the expression he said was theirs but it was a very good one he tould them there were many Interests to be considered of Viz. the Parliament Army and Scots he desir'd all might be considered but when he was inform'd of a dissenting Declaration of the Scots he tould them he was very sorry for it and he hoped they might agree in the maine though they might differ in circumstances His Majesty deliver'd his Message to the Commissioners open with Injunction to keep it secret till they had deliver'd it to the Parliament There hapned a tumult at Newport in the Isle of Wight diverse declaring for the King and one Captain Burleigh caused a drum to be beaten up for the service of his Majesty the Mayor and others that came to his assistance fell upon them disperst them took the Captain who was afterwards executed This tumult caused the Governour of the Island immediately to discharge all such as had ayded and assisted his Majesty in the late War against the Parliament Munday the third of January 1657. The Commons tok into consideration his Majesties Message and finding the same as it appeares to them not satisfactory nor that he hath any Inclination to a composure it was put to the Question Whether any addresses should be made hereafter after many houres debate it was Resolv'd That 1. No addresses shall hereafter be made to him by the Parliament of England 2. That none shall on paine of Treason make any addresse without leave from the Parliament 3. That no written Paper Message or Declaration be received from his Majesty on penalty of Treason They likewise Vote that Colonel Hamond and Sir William Constable shall have power to displace any man from his Majesty whom they shall thinke fit Immediately they take care for the managing of the affaires of the Kingdome by compleating the Committee of Darby-House who were to transact the whole businesse of the Kingdome they Vote the Earle of Kent in the roome of the Earle of Essex who was dead Mr Nathaniell Fines and Mr John Evelin in the roomes of Sir Philip Stapleton dead and Mr Glin who was sequestred the House Sir William Waller was continued The Committee being compleated were 21 in number Viz. the Lord of Northumberland Earle of Kent
Earle of Warwick Earle of Manchester Vicount Say and Seale Lord Wharton and Lord Roberts For the Commons Mr Perepoint Mr Nathaniell Fines Sir Henry Vane senior Sir Arthur Haslerig Sir Gilbert Gerard Sir William Ermine Sir John Evelin Sir Henry Vane junior Sir William Waller Mr Crew Mr Soliciter St John Mr Wallop Mr Samuel Browne Lieutenant Generall Cromwell A Generall Councell of the Army being met at Windsor they were very Joyfull and unanimously approv'd of the Votes of the House touching his Majesty and ordred two Declarations to be drawne up one to shew their good liking of the Houses proceedings with promise to ayd and assist them in setling the Kingdome yea without the King or against the King the second for the maintenance of the Peerage of England with Resolution to stand by Lords and Commons to the last man On the 17 of January the Votes for non-addresses past the Lords House They Ordred Colonel Barksteds Regiment to quarter in White Hall Colonel Rich his Regiment of Horse to quarter in the Mews His Majesty having heard of the Resolves of both Houses continues very chearfull and is much retired The Scots Commissioners desire leave to Returne The House of Lords added four of their order to the Committee of Darby-House Viz. the Earle of Salsbury the Lord Mograve Earle of Denbigh and Lord Howard The Earle of Pembrooke was Voted Chancellor of Oxford Both Houses Vote that the Committee of Darby-House have plenipotence to order the dispose of the Army Commanded by Sir Thomas Fairfax as they shall thinke fit The Commons consider'd of Commissioners to goe to Scotland to acquaint the Parliament of Scotland with the miscarriages of their Commissioners here And Order Mr Goodwin Mr Ashurst Mr Brian Stapleton and Colonel Birch to receive their Instructions from the Committee of Darby-House The Lords joyne the Earle of Nottingham and the Earle of Stamford to goe with them The second of February the Commons past an Order that all the servants lately made by the Commissioners attending his Majesty be removed and that the Generall Sir Thomas Fairfax place such about his Majesty as he should thinke fit provided they exceed not thirty They likewise order'd a Declaration to be drawne up to satisfie the Kingdome of the Grounds and Reasons of their passing the Votes for non-addresses The 21 of February Judge Jenkins was brought to the Bar of the House where he refused to kneele a Charge was read against him That he had condemn'd or pasT sentence upon men to be hang'd drawne and quarter'd for not assisting against the Parliament That he tooke up Armes himselfe that he stir'd up others to levy war and assist against the Parliament that he accused the Parliament and charg'd them with counterfeiting the Great Seale and bein requir'd to speak what he had to say for himselfe he answer'd that they had no power to try him he assur'd with confidence the Militia was in the King alone he said Kings did not formerly covenant to maintaine the Law but onely to be mercifull to the people He endeavoured to terrifie the Parliament with his Majesties numerous Issue in Geniollogy he pray'd the Laws might be protected he saith there can be no Laws without a King and that there is none in Venice nor the Vnited Provinces for his ill deportment and words which were indeed a breach of the priviledge of the House he was fined 1000 l. and the House Voted a Charge to be brought in against him His Majesty at Caresbrooke Castle is very much dejected and discontented at his confinement and the removall of his old servants he will not permit his haire nor beard to be medled withall but by a Barbar of his own choosing by which meanes he is growne very hairy The Scots Commissioners Report to their Parliament much to the prejudice of the Parliament of England touching their proceedings with the King The Lords and Commons Concur that no forces be raised in London nor ten miles round but by speciall warrant from the Committee of Darby-House The House being Inform'd that one Colonell Poyer Governour of Pembroke Castle had refused to deliver it up being required thereunto by Letters from the Generall Order that if the said Colonell Poyer shall not within twelve houres after notice hereof surrender the Castle with all the Armes and Ammunition therein that then the said Colonell Poyer and all that shall adhere to him are hereby declared Traytors and Rebells and the Generall is hereby required to reduce the said Castle and to bring the said Colonell Poyer and his adherents to Justice and the Generall was requir'd to send this Order that the Colonell might not plead excuse Colonell Langhurne likewise raised a body of men and came to the assistance of Colonell Poyer and had gathered together a considerable body of men neere 2000 Horse and foote They publish a Declaration of their Resolutions to establish his Majesty in his full power and dignity The Generall Order'd thirty Companyes of Horse and foote to suppresse them under the Command of Colonel Horton The King though set aside and confin'd to the Isle of Wight was more formidable this Summer then ever he was since the beginning of the late troubles for the very name of a King was now grown into great credit with the people throughout the Kingdome and by it not onely tumults but Armyes were raised A mutiny hapned at Bury about a Maypole some discontented persons declare for the King the House order the Generall to send some forces who besieged it and after some time was delivered up to mercy Chepstow was likewise surprized for the King On the 22 of Aprill the Earle of Northumberland Inform'd the House of the escape of the Duke of Yorke from St James's The manner thus The Earle went as his custome was to attend the Duke at eight a clock at night after some stay the Duke came from his brothers Chamber when the Earle was gone the Duke went out againe as his manner was in way of play to obscure himselfe that his Gentlemen might seeke him which accordingly they did but could not find him upon search they Informe the Earle who upon enquiry dilcovers that he had borrowed the Key of the Garden doore the day before of the Gardner as also there was discovery made of his footsteps The Parliament in Scotland order a Committee for safety who advise that an Army of 40000 men be forthwith Levied for the preservation of his Majesty and Kingdome of Scotland notwithstanding diverse Lords Knights and Gentlemen Members of the Parliament Remonstrate of their utter dislike of it Immediately the Parliament of England Order the fortifying of Newcastle and Hull to prevent the Scots Invasion The Parliament men being summon'd to attend the House were cald over and found to be neere 320 men A Petition was presented to the Parliament from the City Requiring the Armyes removall from the City and that the Posts and Chaines may be put up for the
in danger requiring the assistance of the Scots and that he hath fully accepted of the treaty proposed and gives it all the furtherance that lies in him by demanding the necessary meanes of effecting not doubting of the Parliaments ready compliance He conjures them is Christians and good Patricts that they will make all possible expedition by hasting downe their Commissioners praying the God of peace to blesse all endeavours that all his Dominions may enjoy a safe and happy peace A designe was laid for the betraying of Stafford for the King but by the Industry of Captain Stone it was prevented The Commons upon the City Petition Order a Bill to be brought in that Major Generall Skippon lift no more but by speciall Order of the House The Earle of Pembrooke was made Constable of Windsor-Castle in the roome of the Earle of Holland The Lords communicate to the Commons their Votes touching the Kings Letter which were to this purpose That the four Votes of non-addresses formerly made by both Houses be null And 1. That his Majesty may have all such to come to him as are necessary for the carrying on of the Treaty on his part 2. That he have such servants as are needfull to attend his person 3. That the Treaty be at Newport 4. That his Majesty may also invite the Scots to the Treaty to treat on the Propositions at Hampton Court wherein they concur'd 5. That the number of Lords to treat be five and the Commons to appoint ten 6. That his Majesty may have as much Liberty as at Hampton Court Lastly That all possible expedition may be made therein this being apprehended to be the most necessary for the setling of a peace Tinmouth Castle at that time Revolted and retaken the manner thus The Governour being absent the Deputy-Governour sends all the old Souldiers abroad in parties he suddenly declares for the King Armes all the prisoners Invites Seamen and other discontented persons to his assistance one making an escape over the walls Informes Sir Arthur Haslerig of it who immediately sent a party under the Command of Colonell Alhfeild also 100 Dragoones who with what Ladders could be got scaled the wall Major Cobbet led on the forlorne after a very hot Encounter enterd the Castle put all in armes to the sword The Deputy-Governour was found dead The Prince having laine long in the Downs and effected nothing resolves upon Laud service to which purpose they land eight hundred on the Kentish shoare diverse of which were Resormades and persons of quality Colonell Hewson being orderd for the security of the Kentish forces draws together what force he could which were betwixt three and four hundred who together with the assistance of Major Husbands with 100 Horse fell upon them kild many totally disperst them took diverse prisoners In Herefordshire 200 Horse were got together Commanded by Sir Henry Lingen for the King who suddenly surpriz'd the County troop and destroyd them The Commons fell into debate of the Heads of the Kings Letter concerning a treaty they agreed to all excepting their calling the Scots to their assistance who had broke the peace and enterd England in an hostile manner secur'd the townes of Barwick and Carlile but after a long debate they assented that the King should Invite any of the Kingdome of Scotland to come and treate in the behalfe of that Kingdome and that they should have safe conduct They likewise orderd Instructions for Colonell Hamond and order that he so deport himselfe as that the King may be in the same condition as at Hampton Court viz. with freedome Honour and safety The Lieutenant Generall and Lambert being Joyn'd the whole Army was concluded to be 12000 fighting men The Army march of Gisburne where there was a skirmish betwixt Major Righy and some part of the Enemy The next day the Army marcht to Stonyhurst a great house in the way to Preston a party was drawne out commanded by Major Sanders who fell on the Enemies out-guards and took the Earle of Connought a Scotchman and six others prisoners The next morning early the Army marcht to Preston where the whole Army of the Enemy both English and Scotch lay which by computation could be little lesse then 24000 fighting men a forlorne was commanded out by Major Smithson consisting of 500 foote 200 Horse and two Troops of Dragoones who charg'd furiously upon the Enemy pursuing them from lanes and Villages with great resolution which so allarm'd the whole Army and caus'd them to draw up upon a More two miles East of Preston out forelorne notwithstanding the deepnesse of the wayes behaved themselves with much Gallantry who after they had cleared the lanes our foote drew up the Van consisted of Colonell Bright The Lord Generall and the Lancashire Regiments The Reare of Colonell Overtons Deane and Prides Regiments The Battle of a suddaine was very hot and there was a fierce dispute for two houres the enemy having lined the hedges did much mischiefe both to Horse and foote but by the Courage of our men they quickly clear'd the Hedges and forc't them to retire The enemy still gave ground and we still pursuing from hedge to hedge our Horse pursue them through Preston Towne the enemies Army divides and retreats two severall wayes A body of 3000 Horse move toward Lancnster the rest of their Horse and foote retreat over the river Ribble our men follow and pursue them severall wayes Colonell Twissleton and Colonell Thornelow pursue them Northward overtook Rout scatter and took multitudes prisoners But the maine of our Army followed that part that went Southward there was a very hot dispute over Ribble birdge which they Gallantly defended for two houres at length a body of our Pikes runs furiously upon their Muskets and forced them to retire we kild and took many of them but night approaching hinderd the pursuit The next morning the Enemies whole body was drawne up upon a hill on the side of Preston our men fall on with courage and forced them to retire in disorder we kild and took many and that night they fled to Wiggon which they plunderd The next morning the Enemy came within two miles of Warington where they drew up in a very strong field which had high banks like fortifications where O swold King of the Northumbers was formerly slaine We fell upon them though with very great disadvantage our Horse Charge Resolutely The dispute was long and sharp untill such time as the foote could come up to engage which no sooner came but they retire and we pursued them to Warington bridge there was kild of the Enemy above a thousand and above two thousand taken prisoners the rest fled over Warington bridge where the foote were left by the Horse who fled upon our advance they sent a parly and above 4000 well accoutred men with the Lieutenant Generall laid downe their Armes and submitted to mercy Those that went with Duke Hamilton move up and downe in Cheshire
Horse the next day he came to Windsor and was deliver'd up to the Governour who had Instructions not to permit him to be spoken with nor visited by any but by speciall order from Parliament or Generall Divers of the secluded Members were discharged by the Generall on the 23 of December The Commons order a Charge to be drawne up against the Capitall offenders of the Kingdome and amongst the rest the King was named Decem. 28 an Ordinance was brought into the House nominating divers persons to try the King which being tenderd to the Lords was refused Major Pitcher an Active stout man for the King having his life Granted on promise to goe out of the Land was apprehended and shot to death in St Pauls Church-yard The Commons seeing the Lords averse proceed themselves and agreed to the Commission brought in for Triall of the King and order the Commissioners to meete on Munday in the painted Chamber to consider of manner time and place January the9th the Lords Vote that the King could not commit Treason against the Common-wealth and order a Declaration to be drawne up of the Grounds and reasons of their rejecting the Commission for triall of the King and another That no Act of the Commons is binding without the consent of the Lords The Queene sent a Letter to both Houses craving leave to come over to visit her husband but it would not be Granted The Ministers of London though now too late came to the Generall at White Hall to declare their dislike of the proceedings which begat a High contest The Commons Adjourne part of Hillary Tearme in order to the Kings Triall Some Judges for dissenting from the Kings Triall are displaced Jan. 17. The Commissioners for Triall of the King meet in the painted Chamber and debated whether they should have in Court the Mace and Sword and accordingly it was Resolv'd to have both Mace and Sword the Sword alone being too terrible The Commons upon the Kings request Order Dr Juxson Bishop of London to attend him as Chaplain Proclamation was made in Westminster Hall and the Old Exchange for witnesses to come in against the King Fryday the 19 of January the King was brought from Windsor Castle and was met by a Regiment of Horse four miles from London and that night lodg'd at St James's The Kings Bench-Bar and Chancery were appointed for the Commissioners to sit in which were Rayled and Scaffolded in the midst was placed a Crimson Velvet Chaire for the President with a Desk before him on which lay a Crimson Velvet Cushon The Seates all Covered with Red Beneath was a Table with a Turky Carpet for the Carkes On saturday the 20 of January the King was brought with a strong Guard of foote through St James's Parke to White Hall and from thence was convay'd by water to Sir Robert Cottons House with a Guard of twenty Partesons The President Sargeant Bradshaw with his Traine held up before whom was Carried the Sword by Collonell Humphrys and the Mace by Sergeant Dandy after whom came seventy Commissioners the Councell was Mr Aske a Lawyer of the Inner Temple Dr Daureslaus a Civilian and Mr Cooke of Grays Inne was Solicitor Genenerall for the businesse The Court being sat the Commission by which they sat was Read together with the Commissioners names The President commanded the Sergeant at Armes to fetch in the Prisoner who immediately brought the King attended by a Guard of Partezons and placed him in a Chaire He was no sooner sat but with a sterne Countenance he viewed the Court Lookt up toward the Galleries and rising from his Chaire turn'd himselfe to behold the vast multitudes of Souldiers and others that were in the Hall It was further observable that at his Majesties first coming into the Court the top of his staff fell off which none stooping for he took up himselfe Silence being Commanded the Lord President told the King they were assembled by the Authority of the Commons of England to proceed to the Triall of Charles Stuart King of England who had betrayed the trust reposed in him by the people and Commanded the Charge to be read in Open Court which was to this effect That the said Charles Stuart being admitted King of England and Intrusted with a Limited power to Governe according to the Laws for the good and benefit of the people and preserving their Rights and Liberties yet neverthelesse out of a wicked designe to uphold himselfe by a Tyrannicall power according to his will thereby to overthrow the Rights and Liberties of the people yea thereby to make voyd the foundation thereof he the said Charles Stuart for accomplishing such wicked designes and for the protecting himselfe and his adherents in his and their wicked practices hath traiterously and maliciously Levied war against the present Parliament and the people therein represented Particularly upon or about the 13 day of June 1642 at Beverly in the County of York and at or upon the 13 day of July in the yeare aforesaid in the County and City of York and upon the 24 of August in the same yeare at the County of the Towne of Nottingham when and where he set up his Standard of War and on about the 23 of October in the same yeare at Edg-hill and Keinton field and upon or about at 13 day of November in the same yeare at Branford in the County of Middlesex and at or upon the 13 of August 1643 at Cavesham bridge neare Reading in the County of Berks and at our upon the 13 of October in the same yeare at or neare the City of Glocester and at or upon the 30 of November in the yeare last mentioned at Newbery in the County of Berks and at Crepida bridge the 13 of July 1644 and the third of September in the same yeare at Bodmin and other places neere adjacent in Cornwall and on the 30 day of November in the yeare last mentioned at Newbery aforesaid and on the 8 of June 1645 at the Towne of Leicester and also on the 14th day of the same moneth in the same yeare at Naseby field at which severall times and places or most of them and at many other places in the Land at severall other times within the yeares aforementioned as also in the yeare 1646 He the said Charles Stuart hath caused many thousands of the people of the Nation to be slaine by divisions partyes and Insurrections in the Land by Invasions from forraine parts endeavoured and procur'd by him and by many other evill wayes and meanes He the said Charles Stuart hath not onely maintain'd and carried on the said war by Land and Sea during the yeares aforementioned but hath also revived or caus'd to be revived the said war against the Parliament and the good people of the Nation this present yeare 1648 in the Counties of Kent Essex Sutry Sussex and Middlesex and in many other Counties in England and Wales and also by Sea And particularly
forthwith commanded the Prisoner to be carried away who was convey'd to White Hall The Reasons why he could not consent to the Court are as followeth which he Intended to deliver on Munday Jan. 22. in writing but was not permitted Having already made My protestations not only against the illegality of this pretended Court but also that no Earthly power can justly call Me who am your KING in question as a Delinquent I would not any more open My mouth upon this occasion more than to refer My self to what I have spoken were I alone in this case alone concerned But the duty I owe to God in the preservation of the true liberty of My people will not suffer Me at this time to be silent For how can any free-born Subject of England call Life or any thing he possesseth his own if Power without Right daily make new and abrogate the old fundamentall Law of the Land which I now take to be the present case Wherefore when I came hither I expected that you would have endeavoured to have satisfied Me concerning these grounds which hinder Me to answer to your pretended Impeachment but since I see that nothing I can say will move you to it though Negatives are not so naturally proved as Affirmatives yet I will shew you the Reason why I am confident you cannot judge Me nor indeed the meanest Man in England for I will not like you without shewing a reason seek to impose a belief upon My Subjects * Hereabout I was stopt not suffered to speak any more concerning Reasons There is no proceeding just against any Man but what is warranted either by Gods Laws or the municipall Laws of the Country where he lives Now I am most confident that this dayes proceeding cannot be warranted by Gods Law for on the contrary the authority of obedience unto Kings is cleerly warranted and strictly commanded both in the Old and New Testament which if denied I am ready instantly to prove and for the Question now in hand there it is said That where the word of a King is there is power and who may say unto him what doest thou Eccles 8.4 Then for the Laws of this Land I am no lesse confident that no learned Lawyer will affirm that an impeachment can lye against the King they all going in His Name and one of their Maximes is That the King can do no wrong Besides the Law upon which you ground your proceedings must either be old or new if old shew it if new tell what Authority warranted by the fundamentall Laws of the Land hath made it and when But how the House of Commons can erect a Court of Judicature which was never one it self as is well known to all Lawyers I leave to God and the World to judge And it were full as strange that they should pretend to make Laws without King or Lords-House to any that have heard speak of the Laws of England And admitting but not granting that the people of Englands Commission could grant your pretended power I see nothing you can shew for that for certainly you never asked the question of the tenth man of the Kingdome and in this way you manifestly wrong even the poorest ploughman if you demand not his free consent nor can you pretend any colour for this your pretended Commission without the consent at least of the major part of every man in England of whatsoever quality or condition which I am sure you never went about to seek so far are you from having it Thus you see that I speak not for My own right alone as I am your KING but also for the true liberty of all My Subjects which consists not in sharing the power of Government but in living under such Lawes such a Government as may give themselves the best assurance of their lives and propriety of their goods Nor in this must or do I forget the Priviledges of both Houses of Parliament which this dayes proceeding doth not only violate but likewise occasion the greatest breach of their publick Faith that I believe ever was heard of with which I am far from charging the two Houses for all the pretended crimes laid against Me bear date long before this late Treaty at Newport in which I having concluded as much as in Me lay hopefully expecting the two Houses agreement thereunto I was suddenly surprized and hurried from thence as a Prisoner upon which account I am against My will brought hither where since I am come I cannot but to My power defend the ancient Laws and Liberties of this Kingdome together with My own just right Than for any thing I can see the higher House is totally excluded And for the House of Commons it is too well known that the major part of them are detained or deterred from sitting so as if I had no other this were sufficient for Me to protest against the lawfulnesse of your pretended Court. Besides all this the peace of the Kingdome is not the least in My thoughts and what hopes of settlement is there so long as Power reigns without rule of Law changing the whole frame of that Government under which this Kingdome hath flourished for many hundred yeares nor will I say what will fall out in case this lawlesse unjust proceeding against Me do go on and believe it the Commons of England will not thank you for this change for they will remember how happy they have been of late years under the Reign of Q. Elizabeth the King My Father and My Self untill the beginning of these unhappy Troubles and will have cause to doubt that they shall never be so happy under any new And by this time it will be too sensibly evident that the Arms I took up were only to defend the fundamentall Laws of this Kingdome against those who have supposed My power hath totally changed the ancient Government Thus having shewed you briefly the Reasons why I cannot submit to your pretended Authority without violating the trust which I have from God for the welfare and liberty of My People I expect from you either cleer Reasons to convince My judgement shewing Me that I am in an Error and then truly I will readily answer or that you will withdraw your proceedings Sir Hardresse Waller Harrison Deane and Okey Colonels with Lieutenant Generall Ireton are by the Court appointed to consider of time and place for executing the King who resolve that the Open streete before White Hall is a fit place and that the King be there executed the next day being the 30 of January 1648. and that the scaffold he covered with black January 27. the King lay at White Hall the next day being Sunday the Bishop of London preached before him in his Chamber The same day all the Members of the Court kept a fast in the Chappell at White Hall Munday his Children were permitted to visit him at St James's but staid not long Tuesday the 30 of January the
God that you doe take those courses that are best for the good of the Kingdom and your own Salvations Bishop of London Will your Majesty though it be very well known what your Majesties affections are to Religion yet because it may be expected that You should say somewhat declare your self for the Worlds satisfaction in that point KING I thank you very heartily my Lord for that I had almost forgotten it In troth Sirs My Conscience in Religion I think is very well known to all the World and therefore I declare before you all That I die a Christian according to the profession of the Church of England as I found it left to Me by My Father and this honest * Pointing to the Bishop man I think will witnesse it Then turning to the Officers He said Sirs excuse Me for this same I have a good cause and I have a gracious God I will say no more Bishop of London There is but one Stage more This Stage is turbulent and troublesome it is a short one But You may consider it will soon carry You from Earth to Heaven and there You shall finde a great deal of cordial joy and comfort KING I goe from a corruptible to an incorruptible Crown where no disturbance can be no disturbance in the World The Bishop You are exchanged from a temporal to an eternal Crown a good exchange Then the King after some short and servent ejaculations in private with hands and eyes lift up to Heaven immediately stooping down laid His neck upon the Block And then the Executioner appointed to give the fatal blow putting His hair under His Cap the King said Stay for the signe And after a very little pause stretching forth His hands the Executioner at one blow severed His Head from His Body and he changed a troublesome life for a quiet death His body was put in a Coffin covered with black Velvet and from thence carried to his House at St. James's where it was put in a Coffin of Lead laid there to be seen by the people On Wednesday the 7th of Feb. his Corpses was delivered to two of his servants to be buried at Windsor whether the next day The Duke of Richmond the Marquess of Hartford the Earls of Lindsey and Southampton together with Dr. Juxon and divers others repaired where with much difficulty they finde a Vault in St. Georges Chappell where King Henry the Eighth was formerly buried which being prepared a small piece of Lead some two foote long and two inches broad was provided on which was inscribed King CHARLES 1648. which was sawdred to the brest of the Corpse all things being in readinesse the Corpse was brought to the Vault by the Souldiers of the Garrison over which was a black Velvet Hearse-Cloth which was supported by foure Lords the Bishop of London stood weeping by then was it deposited in silence and sorrow the Hearse-Cloth being cast in after it FINIS A Table of the principall things contained in this BOOK A. BIsnop Andrews death 15 Sir Robert Anstruther sent Ambassadour into Germany 25 Lord Audly Arraigned and condemn'd 26 Bishop Abbots death 27 Articles of the Church consented to in ireland 30 Articles betwixt the Scots and English 38 Armes atrive from Holland for the King 69 Armyes Declaration 133 Their second Declaration 167. Their reasons for secluding the Members 169 Petition for Justice on the Capitall offenders ibid B. Buckingham accus'd of Treasen by Gondamore 4. Sent into Holland 10. accuses Digly 12. His Voyage for Reliefe of Rochell 16. 1s stabd by Felton 19. Interd at Westminster 20 Judge Barkleys aresting in the Kings Bench. 47 Bucking ham shire Petition for Mr. Hamden 60 Blake executed for treachery 79 Bransord fight 80 Browns successes at Abbington 97 Brereton Victorious 105 Barwick surprized 142. C. King Charles borne 1. Created Duke of York ib. Goes into Spaine 2. Arrives safe home 3. Proclaimed King of Great Brittaine 6. Espousd to Henneretta Maria. 7. Summons a Parliament ibid. His Speech 8. Adjournes the Parliament to Oxford 9. In want ibid. And dessolves them 10. His Coronation 11. Calls a second Parliament ibid. His Speech in the House 12. Dissolves the Parliament 13. Assists the French 14. His speech to the Queens attendants ibid. Summons a third Parliament 17. Grants the Petition of Right 19. Speech in the Lords House 23. Dissolves the Parliament 24. Visited with the small Pox 27. Goes into Scotland ibid. His care for the service of God in Scotland 28. Sends an Army to suppresse the Scots 36. Summons a fourth Parliament 39. He addresses himself to the City for money 41. Rayses a second Army against the Scots ibid Speech to the long Parliament 44. Speech in the Banqueting House 46. He breaks the Dutch match to them 47. Passeth the Bill for Trieniall Parliaments ibid. Vindicates the Earl of Strafford 49. Goes into Scotland 54. Appoints Essex Generall ib. Returnes from Scotland 55. Charges the five Members with high treason 57. Goes to the House to demand them 59. Goes to Hampton Court 61. Thence to Dover 62. Comes back to Greenwich thence to Theobalds 62. Sends to the House of his Intentions for Ireland 64. Demands Hull 65. Speech to the Gentry of Yorkshire ibid. Sends out Commissions of Array 69. His speech to the Nobility and Gentry at York 70. Besieges Hull ib. Hepublishes his Grand Declaration at York 72. Sets up his Standard 73. Sends a Message from Nottingham ibid. Sets up a Mint at Shrewsbury 75. Summons Glocester 86. Summons a Parliament at Oxford 90. Receives the Sacrament at Oxford 91. Sends a Message for peace 93. Dissolves the Parliament at Oxford 94. Flies to Leicester 104. Sends Propositions for peace 109. Flies disguisd to the Scots Army 110. Sends a Message from Newcastle 114. Comes to Holmbey 116. Desires to come to London 118. comes to Newmarket 119. Removd to Causum 120. Thence to Woborne 121. Removd to Hampton Court 122. Flies to the Isle of Wight 126. his Letter to the House 150. Sent a Letter to the Generall 133. Letter to the Lords 134. He earnestly presses a personall Treaty 135. is discontented 139. sends an answer to the Parliaments Message 150. sends a Message to the House 157 conveyd to Hurst Castle 168 brought to Windsor 170. brought to St. James's 171 His first dayes Triall 172 second dayes Triall 179 third dayes Triall 181. last dayes Triall 183. sentence 188. his reasons against the Court 189. Committee appointed to consider of Execution 191. Jan. 30. 1648. appointed for his execution 193. His speech on the scaffold 194. He 's executed 198. Inter'd at Windsor 199 Cades Voyage 10 Mr. Cooks Insolent speech in the House 11 Mr. Crew sent to the Tower 40 County of York petition the King 64 City of London set up Chaines and Posts 76. Petition the Parliament 141 Cirencester for the Parliam 81 Covenant Taken throughout the Kingdome 87 Countesse of Darby holds out Latham House 91 Coruish Hugg 92 Lieutenant