to preserve and Support the Kings person and Government and the Protestant Religion both at home and abroad and that His Majesty returned His Gracious answer to this effect viz. Gentlemen I thank you very heartily for your Zeal for the Protestant Religion and I assure you there shall be nothing wanting on my part at home or abroad to preserve it Sir Francis Winnington Chairman to the Committee appointed to inspect the Journals of the Two last Parliaments relating to the horrid Popish plot made a Report from the said Committee of a general abstract of those proceedings taken out of the said Journals and he referring in the said Report to several Entrys in the said Journals which could not yet be Transcribed Ordered That the said Report be perfected by the said Committee and afterwards presented to the House to be Entred in the Journals of this House Ordered That the same Committee do inspect the Journals of the Lords House of the Two last Parliaments and make a Report of their Lordships proceedings relating to the horrid Popish plot and that the said Committee do Sit de Die in Diem Ordered That Mr. Treby do give this House Information to morrow morning of all the matters by him Reported in the last Parliament relating to the horrid Popish plot The House being Informed that one _____ Hardwich a Linen Draper at the Naked Boy in Henrietta-street Covent-garden did in breach of the Priviledges of this House commit certain misdemeanors against the said Seignior Francisco being a witness produced and examined at the Bar of this House touching the horrid Popish plot Ordered That the said Mr. Hardwich be sent for in Custody of the Serjeant attending this House to answer to this House for the same Ordered That Mr. Dugdale do attend this House on Thursday morning next at Ten of the Clock to make his further Discovery of the horrid Popish plot Martis 2. Novemb. 1680. A Bill for prohibiting the Importation of Irish Cattle c. was read the first time Resolved That this Bill be read a second time Ordered That Mr. Harnage be brought to the Bar of this House tomorrow morning at Ten of the clock to answer to the Misdemeanors by him committed against Seignior Francisco Ferria in breach of the Priviledges of this House and that the said Seignior Francisco do then likewise attend this House Ordered That an humble address be made to His Majesty by such Members of this House as are of His Majesties Privy Council to desire His Majesty that he would be pleased to grant His Gracious Pardon to Mr. Dangerfield and that he would take Mr. Dangerfield Mr. Dugdale Mr. Praunce and Seignior Francisco Ferria into his Royal Care and protection Sir Francis Winnington Chairman to the Committee appointed to inspect the Journals of the House of Lords of the Two last Parliaments and to make a Report of their Lordships proceedings entred in the said Journals relating to the horrid Popish plot acquaints the House that the Committee had perused the said Journals and taken an abstract thereout which he reported to the House Ordered That the said Committee do perfect their Report of the abstract taken out of the Journals of the Lords House and do present the same in Writing to this House together with a perfect abstract of the Journals of the House of Commons of the Two last Parliaments relating to the said Popish plot Mr. Treby having according to the Order of the House made yesterday given an information to the House of all the matters by him Reported in the last Parliament relating to the Horrid Popish plot Resolved Nemine Contradicente That the Duke of York's being a Papist and the hopes of his coming such to the Crown hath given the greatest Countenance and Encouragement to the present Designs and Conspiracies against the King and Protestant Religion Resolved Nemine Contradicente That in Defence of the Kings Person and Government and of the Protestant Religion this House doth Declare That they will stand by His Majesty with their Lives and Fortunes and that if His Majesty shall come by any violent death which God forbid they will Revenge it to the utmost upon the Papists Resolved That a Bill be brought in to disable the Duke of York to Inherit the Imperial Crown of this Realm Ordered That a Committee be appointed to prepare the Bill Mercurij 3. die Novembris 1680. A Message from the Lords by Mr. Justice Wyndham and Mr. Baron Atkins Mr. Speaker The Lords have commanded us to acquaint you that they have passed a Bill Entituled An Act for the better Regulating the Tryals of the Peers of England to which they desire the Concurrence of this House An Engrossed Bill sent from the Lords Entituled an Act for the better Regulating of the Tryals of the Peers of England was Read the first time Resolved That the Bill be Read a second time on Munday morning next after Ten of the clock Ordered That the Committee appointed to prepare a Bill for Regulating Elections of Members to Serve in Parliament do present the said Bill to the House tomorrow morning Mr. Harnage being brought to the Bar and Seignor Francisco Ferria appearing and justifying his charge against him Ordered That Mr. Harnage be continued in Custody of the Serjeant at Arms attending this House during the pleasure of the House for his misdemeanor in Breach of the priviledges of this House Ordered That the Committee appointed to Inspect the Journals of the Two last Parliaments relating to the horrid Popish plot do look into and make Report of the Impeachments Exhibited in the Two last Parliaments against the Lords in the Tower and of the proceedings thereupon And the said Committee is to enquire into and prepare Evidence against the said Lords Resolved Nemine Contradicente That a bill be brought in for the better Uniting of all His Majesties Protestant Subjects Ordered That Sir Tho. Whitegrave Mr. Birch of Stafford Apothecary and Lieutenant Ells be sent for in Custody of the Serjeant at Arms attending this House to answer to the Charge given against them at the Bar of this House by Mr. Dugdale Ordered That Herbert Herring be sent for in Custody of the Serjeant at Arms attending this House for his Notorious Breach of priviledge by him committed against M. Colt a member of this House Ordered That Jeremiah Bubb be Summoned to appear at the Bar of this House tomorrow morning at Ten of the clock to answer for the Breach of priviledge by him committed against Mr. Colt a Member of this House A Bill for prohibiting the Importation of Irish Cattle was Read a Second time Resolved That the said Bill be committed with Instructions to the Committee to bring in a Clause to be added to the said Bill declaring That where any Irish Cattel shall be found amongst English Cattel all the said Cattel as well English as Irish shall be forfeited Ordered That leave be given to bring in a Bill for
Read to the house by Mr. Speaker and is as followeth CHARLES R. HIs Majesty desires this House as well for the satisfaction of his people as of himselfe to Expedite such matters as are depending before them relating to Popery and the Plot and would have them rest assured That all Remedies they can tender to his Majesty conducing to those Ends shall be very acceptable to him Provided they be such as may consist with Preserving the Succession of the Crown in its due and legal Course of Descent Mr. Hambden acquaints the house That in the Entry made in the Journal of this house of the Report by him yesterday made from the conference had with the Lords it appears that in part of his Report which relates to the delivery of such papers relating to the Plot to the clerk of this house there is an omission of these words Received from the Clerks of the Council Ordered That the said words be added in the Entry of the said Report in the Journal Ordered That Mr. Richard Janeway be sent for in custody of the Serjeant at Arms attending this house to Answer at the Bar of this house for the Breach of priviledge by him committed against Sir Edward Deering a member of this house Mr. Turbervill being called in gave Information at the Bar of this house of the Horrid Popish plot and delivered the same in writing Mr. Jennison being called in delivered his Information formerly given at the Bar of this house in writing Mr. Dangerfield being called in acquainted the House that he was advised That the Pardon now granted to him by His Majesty is in some particulars defective And humbly desired this House to represent the same to His Majesty Ordered That an humble application be made to His Majesty from this House by such of the members of this House as are of His Majesties most Honourable Privy Council desiring His Majesty to grant to Mr. Dangerfield a full and general pardon of all Treasons misprisions of Treason Felonies and other crimes and misdemeanours and particular crimes to be specified by him committed to the time of his last Discovery made to this house of the Popish plot And that His Majesty would in like manner be Graciously pleased to grant to Mr. Edw Turbervill who hath this day given in Evidence at the Bar of this house relating to the horrid Popish plot a full and General pardon And that His Majesty would be pleased to take him into His Royal protection and care and grant him some allowanee for his subsistance Ordered That all the Informations already given in at the Bar of this House in writing relating to the Popish plot be Entred upon the Journal of this House And that all the said Informations be printed being first perused and Signed by Mr. Speaker and that Mr. Speaker Nominate and appoint the persons to Print the same And that Mr. Dangerfield have the Benefit of the Printing of his said Information Ordered That a Committee be appointed to consider of means to preserve the Evidence of Mr. Bedlow and others that have or shall give Evidence relating to the Popish plot Ordered That the Committee appointed to Inspect the Journals of the two last Parliaments and to make a Report of their proceedings as well relating to the Popish plot as of the Impeachment against the Lords in the Tower do present their reports to the House on Thursday morning next in writing Ordered That Mr. Treby do on Thursday morning next present to the House in writing the Information by him lately given to this House of the matters by him reported in the last Parliament relating to the horrid Popish plot Ordered That Joseph Thompson Clerk be sent for in custody of the Serjeant at Arms attending this House to answer at the Bar of this House for his high Misdemeanour against the priviledge of this House The Information of Mr. Murphy relating to the Popish plot in Ireland being Read Ordered That Mr. Hethrington do attend his House tomorrow morning at ten of the Clock to give his Evidence relating to the said plot Ordered That the rest of the Papers relating to the Popish plot in Ireland now in the hands of the clerk of this House be Read to morrow morning Mercurij 10. die Novembris 1680. A Bill for Regulating the Elections of members to serve in the Commons House of Parliament was Read the first time Resolved That the said Bill be Read a second time An Engrossed Bill for Prohibiting the Importation of Cattle from Ireland was Read a third time Resolved That the said Bill do pass and that the Title be An Act Prohibiting the Importation of Cattel from Ireland Ordered That Sir John Trevor do carry up the said Bill to the Lords for their concurrence And the same Bill was carried up to the Lords accordingly A message from the Lords by the Lord Chief Baron Mountague and Mr. Baron Atkins M. Speaker THe Lords have commanded us to acquaint you That they have passed an Act for Freeing the City of London and His Majesties Court and parts adjacent from Popish Inhabitants and providing against othèr Dangers which may arise from Papists To which their Lordships desire the concurrence of this House The House taking into consideration His Majesties Gracious Message now Read to the House and a Debate arising thereupon Resolved Nemine contradicente That a Committee be appointed to Draw up an Humble address to His Majesty upon the Debate of the House in answer to His Majesties Gracious Message Resolved Nemine contradicente That this House will proceed in the prosecution of the Lords in the Tower and will forthwith begin with William Viscount Stafford Ordered That Sir William Jones be added to the Committee appointed to Inspect the Journals to the two last Parliaments relating to the Popish plot and the Impeachments of the Lords in the Tower And the said Committee is to sit de die in diem Mr. Secretary Jenkins acquaints the House That according to the Order of the House Yesterday made His Majesty had been attended in Council with the address of this House And that His Majesty was pleased to return this answer That as to the Pardon for Mr. Dangerfield it should be not only for all Treasons and misprisions of Treason but also for all Felonies Outlawries and misdemeanours whatsoever And that He would grant the like Pardon to Mr. Turbervill and would consider of an allowance for his maintenance Jovis 11. die Novemberis 1680. Ordered THat Mr. Speaker do Issue out his 〈…〉 the Clerk of the Crown for a new Writ for the Electiâ—◠〈…〉 to serve in this present Parliament for the Borough of Cricklade in the County of Wilts in the room of Hungerford Dunch Esq deceased A Petition of Mr. Richard Harnage was Read Ordered That Mr. Harnage be Discharged from the Custody of the Serjeant at Arms attending this House paying his fees A Bill to prevent the Offences of Bribery and Debauchery in the Election
and other Merchants against the African Company was read Ordered That the Consideration of this petition be referred to a Committee to examine the matter thereof and to report the same with their opinions therein to the House Mr. Booth reports from the Committee to whom the Bill for the. better regulating the Trials of the Peers of England was Committed That the Committee having taken the same into consideration had agreed to an Amendment to be made and a clause to be added to the same which he read in his Place and afterwards delivered them in at the Clerks Table where the same wereread And a Motion being made to the House that a Clause be added for repeal of the Laws De Scandalis Magnatum Ordered That a Committee be appointed immediately to withdraw and prepare such a Clause A Bill for Uniting his Majesties Protestant Subjects to the Church of England was read the first time Resolved That the said Bill be read a second time on Monday morning next after ten of the clock in a full House A Bill for the Exempting his Majesties Protestant Subjects discenting from the Church of England from the penalties of Certain Laws was read the first time Resolved That the said Bill be read a second time on monday morning next after ten of the clock in a full House Ordered That the Chairman of the Committee appointed to consider of presidents concerning the Imprisoning of Members of this House upon an impeachment in Parliament do make report thereof tomorrow morning after ten a clock in a full House The Amendments sent from the Lords to the Bill for Repeal of the Statute made in the five and thirtieth year of the Reign of Queen Elizabeth were twice read and upon the Question severally put were agreed to Ordered That the Reports from the Committee of Elections and Priviledges touching the Elections for the Boroughs of Marlborough in the County of Wilts St Edmonds-bury in the County of Suffolk and great Marlow in the County of Bucks be made on Tuesday morning next Refolved That this House will tomorrow morning resolve it self into a Committee of the whole House further to consider of wayes and means to secure the Kingdom against Popery and Arbitrary Power Mr. Trenchard reports from the Committee appointed to prepare a Clause for repeal of the Laws made De Scandalis Magnatum that the Committee had agreed upon a Clause which he Read in his Place and afterwards Delivered the same in at the Clerks Table The House resuming the consideration of the Amendments this day reported to be made to the Bill sent down from the Lords for the better regulating the Tryals of Peers and the Amendments being read a second time were upon the Question agreed to The Clause last reported being twice read and upon the Question agreed to Resolved That the said Clause be added to the said Bill And the Bill with the Amendments and Clauses being read a third time Resolved That the Bill thus amended do pass A Bill for restraining Papists from coming or residing within the Cities of London and Westminster or within twenty Miles distance from the same and from wearing and having Arms was read the first time Resolved That the Bill be read a second time to Morrow morning and that it be the first business Veneris Die 17 December 1680. ORdered That the Names of Martin May and Cornelius Steler who Yesterday took the Oaths of Allegiance and Supremacy at the Clerks Table in Order to their Naturalization be inserted in the Bill of Naturalization A Petition of John Gold and Henry Palmer was Read Ordered That the Consideration of the said Petition be referred to the Commitee appointed to examine the proceedings of the Judges in Westminster-Hall who are to examine the matter thereof and to report the same with their Opinions therein to the House A Petition of Mr. J. Emarton was Read Ordered That the Consideration of this Petition be referred to the Committee appointed to receive Complaints against the Proceedings of the Ecclesiastical Courts to examine the Matter thereof and Report the same with their Opinions therein to the House A Petition of Charles Cottington Esq was Read Ordered That the Consideration of this Petition be referred to the Committee last mentioned to examine the Matter thereof and to Report the same with their opinions therein to the House A Petition of the Grand Jury of the County of Middlesex referred to a Committee which Committee is impowred to Bring in a Bill or Bills for Erecting a Court of Conicience to be held within the Jurisdiction of the said Country of Middlesex upon the Debate of the House Ordered That Major Bremen have leave to go into the Country Ordered That Captain Castle being in Custody of the Serjeant at Arms attending this House be brought to the Bar and do receive the Censures of the House upon his knees from Mr. Speaker and be discharged paying his Fees which was done accordingly A Petition of Richard Hains desiring leave that a Bill be brought in for restraining Vagrants and promoting woollen Manufacture was Read Ordered That leave be given to bring in a Bill for that purpose and it is referred to a Committee to prepare the same Ordered That leave be given to bring in a Bill for the more easie collecting His Majesties Revenue arising by Hearth money Ordered That Sr. Nicholast Pelham and Sr. Thomas Milbraham have leave to go into the Country An Engrossed Bill touching persons buryed in Woollen was Read Resolved That the Bill do pass and that the Title be An additional Act for burying in Woollen Ordered That Sr. Goorge Downing do carry the said Bill to the Lords and desire their Lordships Concurrence therein A Bill for continuance of Two Acts the one entituled An Act for preventing the planting of Tobacco in England and regulating the Plantation Trade The other An Act for exporting Beer Ale and Mum was read the second time committed Mr. Serjeant Seyes reports from the Committee to whom the Bill for taking away the Court holden before the President and Council in the Marches of Wales was committed Ordered That the said Bill be ingrossed Sir William Poultney reports from the Committee to whom it was referred to prepare the Impeachment against Edward Seymour Esq a Member of this House and to search Presidents touching Imprisoning Members of this House when impeached in Parliament That the Committee had directed him to make a special Report thereof which he read in his place and afterwards delivered the same in at the Clerks Table Ordered That the Articles of Impeachment against Mr. Seymor agreed upon be ingrossed And that Mr. Seymour be taken in custody of the Serjeant at Arms attending this House for securing of his forth-coming to answer to the Impeachment of this House against him until he shall have given sufficient security to this Housc to answer to the said Impeachment Ordered That the Serjeant at Arms attending this House be impowred to
fly into France where he imbraced that Religion About the same time he the said Thompson said the Church would be Militant but greatly commended the decency of Solemnizing the Mass in France and that it was performed with much more Reverence and Devotion then any other Religion doth use He further heard him say in a Sermon about the time of Petitioning he would rather cut off his hand then Sign it and had many bad expressions of it that it was the Seed of Rebellion and like 40 and 41. And further the said Mr. Thompson at one Sanford's Shop door in Bristol speaking of Bedlow said That he was not to be believ'd because Bedlow had said he meaning Mr. Thompson was at St. Omers where Mr. Thompson said he was not and that Bedlow was of a bad Life and in many Plots and not to be credited in any thing he said And that in another Discourse he commended the Romish Clergy for their single Life and is himself so and did at the same time Vilify Rail at the English Clergy for Marrying saying it was better for a Clergy Man to be Guelt then to Marry that the Calvinists in France were Lecherous Fellows and could scarce be two years a Priest without a Wife About the time and after the Election of Sir John Knight to this Parliament Mr. Thompson said he was not fit to be believ'd and as bad as any Fanatick He further said in the Pulpit at St. Thomas's that after Excommunication by the Bishop without Absolution from the Spiritual Court such a one was surely Damned and he would Pawn his Soul for the Truth of it Evidence ended Mr. Thompson after the Evidence given by every particular person Face to Face was asked to every one If he had any Questions to ask before they called another Who answer'd he should not say any thing at present When the Witnesses before-mentioned were all Examined Mr. Thompson being desir'd to make his Defence and declare whether he were Guilty of the Matters laid to his charge did for the greatest part confess words spoken to that effect and in other things endeavoured to turn the words with more favour towards himself but the Witnesses being of great Credit and many more being ready to have made good the same things the Committee lookt upon the business to be of a high Nature therefore ordered the matter to be reported specially leaving it to the Wisdom of the House The Resolution of the House of Commons upon the said Report Resolved Nemine contradicente THat Richard Thompson Clerke Hath publickly defamed his Sacred Majesty Preached Sedition vilified the Reformation Promoted Popery by asserting Popish Principles decrying the Popish Plot and turning the same upon the Protestants and endeavoured to subvert the Liberty and property of the Subject and the Rights and Priviledges of Parliament and that he is a Scandal and Reproach to his Function And that the said Richard Thompson be Impeached upon the said Report and Resolution of the House And a Committee is appointed to prepare the said Impeachment and to receive further Instructions against him and to send for Persons Papers and Records Lunoe 3. Die Januarii 1680. AN Engrossed Bill for the Naturalization of Peter Elers and others was read a third time Resolved That the Bill do pass and that the Title be An Act for the Naturalization of Peter Elers and others Aliens born Ordered That Mr. Papillon do carry up the said Bill to the Lords for their Concurrence An Engrossed Bill for the prohibiting the importation of Cattle from Scotland was Read a third time Resolved That the Bill do pass and that the Title be An Act limiting the times of Importation of Cattle from Scotland Ordered That Sir George Downing do carry up the Bill to the Lords for their Concurrence A Bill for repealing an Act made in the 13th year of His now Majesties Reign Entituled An Act for the well Governing and Regulating of Corporations was read the first time Resolved That the Bill be read a second time on Thursday morning next A Bill for the better Discovery of Settlements of Estates for superstitious Uses was read the first time Resolved That the Bill be read a second time on Fryday morning next after Ten of the Clock in a full House Mr. Treby Reports from the Committee of Elections and Priviledges to whom the matter touching the Election for the Borough of Steyning in the County of Sussex was referred That the Committee having taken the same into their Consideration had agreed upon two Resolves viz. 1. That John Tufton Esq was not duly elected a Burgess to serve in this present Parliament for the Burrough of Steyning in the County of Sussex 2. That Philip Gell Esq is duly Elected a Burgess to serve in this present Parliament for the Burrough of Steyning To both which Resolves the House agreed with the Committee Ordered That the Clerk of the Crown do attend tomorrow morning to amend the Return for Steyning A Petition of John Fairchild in Custody of the Serjeant at Arms attending this House was read Ordered That the said John Fairchild be brought to the Bar of this House tomorrow morning A Message from the Lords by Sir John Coell and Sir Timothy Baldwin Mr. Speaker The Lords have sent this House a Bill entituled An Act for distinguishing Protestant Dissenters from Popish Recusants to which they desire the Concurrence of this House Sir Edward Harley Reports from the Committee to whom the bill to regulate Elections of Members to serve in the Commons House of Parliament and the Bill to prevent the Offences of Bribery and Debauchery in such Elections were committed That the Committee having taken the said Bills into their Consideration had reduced the same into one Bill and had agreed upon several amendments to be made and Clauses to be added to the same which he read in his place and afterwards delivered the same in at the Clerks Table which with some amendments made at the Table upon the question were severally agreed to by the House the Clause to be inserted being Read Ordered That the said Clause be recommitted to the said Committee upon the Debate of the House A Message from the Lords by Sir John Coell and Sir Timothy Baldwin Mr. Speaker The Lords have sent us to put this House in mind of the Bill for the better regulating the Tryals of the Peers of England A Message from the Lords by Sir Miles Cook and Sir Adam Oteley Mr. Speaker We are commanded to acquaint this house That the Lords have received a Petition from Mr. Seymour wherein he desires a day may be appointed for his speedy Tryal that their Lordships finding no Issue by replication of the Commons think fit to give this House notice thereof The Answer of Edward Seymour Esq to the Articles of Impeachment exhibited against him by the Commons assembled in Parliament was read Ordered That a Committee be appointed to prepare Evidence against Mr. Seymour
is desired but at any time after whensoever such Discovery shall be made Martis 26. die Octob. 1680. Ordered THat a Bill or Bills be brought in upon the Debate of the House for Regulating the Election of Members to serve in Parliament A Committee appointed to draw up the same and to take care to bring in a Clause to declare the Law that an Action of the Case may be brought and maintained for any Damages sustained by undue Returns The House taking into Consideration the Message sent from the Lords Ordered That an humble Address be prepared to be presented to his Majesty for the Pardon of such persons who shall within a limited time make satisfactory discovery to this House of the horrid Popish Plot. The House being informed that Mr. Dangerfield was in the Speakers Chamber and desired he might acquaint the House with some matters of importance relating to the Popish Plot. Ordered That Mr. Dangerfield be called to the Bar of this House to give an account to the House what he knows relating to the Popish Plot. And Mr. Dangerfield being accordingly called to the Bar of the House related his evidence and being withdrawn The House taking notice of Mr. Dangerfields having in his information mentioned Sir Robert Peyton a Member of this House Ordered That it be referred to the Consideration of a Committee to Examine the Matters touching Sir Robert Peyton and to report the same to the House Resolved Nemine contradicente That it is the Opinion of this House to proceed effectually to suppress Popery and prevent a Popish Successor Mercurii 27. die Octobris 1680. MR. Treby reports from the Committee appointed to prepare and draw up an Address to be presented to his Majesty May it please your Majestie WE Your Majesties most Dutiful and Loyal Subjects the Commons in Parliament Assembled being highly Zealous for the Preservation of the Protestant Religion Your Majesties Sacred Person and Government and resolving to pursue with a strict and impartial Enquiry the Execrable Popish Plot which was detected in the two last Parliaments and has been supported and carried on by potent and restless practices and machinations especially during the late Recesses of Parliament whereby several persons have been terrified and discouraged from declaring their knowledg thereof most humbly beseech Your Majesty that for the security of such persons who shall be willing to give evidence or make further satisfactory Discovery concerning the same to this House Your Majesty would be pleased to issue Your Royal Proclamation assuring all the said persons of Your Gracious Pardon if they shall give such Evidence or make such Discovery within two months after the Date of such Proclamation Resolved Nemine contradicente That it is and ever hath been the undoubted Right of the Subjects of England to Petition the King for the Calling and Sitting of Parliaments and Redressing of Grievances Resolved Nemine contradicente That to traduce such Petitioning as a violation of Duty and to represent it to his Majestie as Tumultuous and Seditious is to betray the Liberty of the Subject and contributes to the Design of Subverting the ancient legal constitution of this Kingdom and introducing Arbitrary Power Ordered That a Committee be appointed to enquire of all such persons as have offended against these Rights of the Subject The House being informed that Sir Francis Wythens a Member of this House had offended against the said Rights of the Subject Ordered That Sir Francis Wythens a member of this House have notice given him by the Serjeant to attend his place tomorrow morning Resolved That an Address be made to his Majestie declaring the Resolution of this House to Preserve and support the Kings Person Government and the Protestant Religion at home and Abroad Jovis 28. die Octob. 1680. SIR Francis Wythens appearing in his Place according to the Order of the House yesterday made Ordered That the Clerk of the Peace for Westminster do attend this House tomorrow morning at Ten of the Clock with the Roll of the Orders for last Easter Sessions for the City of Westminster An Information being given the House against Sir Robert Yeamans of Bristol and against Sir Robert Cann a Member of this House That they did in October 1679. publickly declare that there was no Popish plot but a Presbyterian plot And Mr. Rowe Sword-bearer of Bristol being called in to the Bar and attesting the same all which being likewise attested by Sir John Knight a Member of this House And Sir Robert Cann being called upon by the House to make his Defence therein who standing up in his Place did in defence utter several reproachfull reflecting words against the said Sir John Knight Ordered That Sir Robert Cann be brought to the Bar of this House and do receive a reprehension from Mr. Speaker upon his knees which was done accordingly And Sir Robert Cann being again withdrawn the House Proceeded in the further Consideration of the Matters charged against him and after long Debate Resolved c. That it doth appear by the Evidence this day given to this Housethat Sir Robert Cann is guilty of publickly declaring in the City of Bristol in October 1679 that there was no Popish plot but a Presbyterian Plot. Ordered That Sir Robert Cann a Member of this house be Committed to the prison of the Tower Ordered That Sir Robert Cann be Expelled this House And then he was brought to the Bar of the House and upon his knees received from Mr. Speaker the Judgment of the House for his Expulsion from this House and Commitment to the Tower Ordered That Mr. Speaker do issue out his Warrant to the Serjeant at Arms for conveying the Body of Sir Robert Cann to the prison of the Tower Ordered That Sir Robert Teamans be sent for in Custody of the Serjeant attending this House to answer for publickly declaring in the City of Bristol in October 1679 That there was no Popish Plot but a Presbyterian Plot. Ordered That Doctor Dove be desired to preach before this House on the Fifth day of Novem. next at St. Margarets Westminster and Mr. Speaker is desired by the House to give him notice thereof Veneris 29. die Octob. 1680. Ordered THat Sir George Downing have leave to bring in a Bill for Wearing of the Woollen Manufactures of England Ordered That Doctor Tongue be humbly recommended by this House to his Majestie for the first considerable Church preferment that shall happen to become void in this Kingdom and that such members of this House as are of his Majesties Privy Council do represent the same to his Majestie Mr. Speaker acquaints the House That having attended his Majestie yesterday in the Afternoon with the Address for a Pardon for such persons as shall make a satisfactory Discovery to this House of the Horrid Popish plot His Majestie was pleased to return his Gracious Answer to this effect viz. THat He did intend to Direct such a Proclamation and was Resolved not onely
and the said Committee is impowered to send for persons papers and Records A Petition of the Bailiffs and Burgesses of the Borough of Poole in the County of Montgomery touching the Election of a Burgess to serve in this present Parliament for the Shire-town of Montgomery was Read And a debate arising in the House whether the said petition be Exhibited within the time prefixt by the Orders of this House The Question being put whether the said Petition shall be referred to the consideration of the Committee of Elections and priviledges it passed in the Negative Sir John Trevor Reports from the Committee to whom the Bill for prohibiting the Importation of Irish Cattel was committed several amendments and Clauses agreed by the said Committee to be made and added to the said Bill which he Read in his place and afterwards delivered the same in at the clerks Table where the same being twice read they were with some amendments made at the Clerks Table upon the Question severally agreed to Resolved c. That the Bill with the amendments and clauses agreed to be Engrossed Ordered That Mr. Joseph Paget be sent for in custody of the Serjeant at Arms attending this House to answer for notorious misdemeanours by him committed against the Priviledge of this House A Message from the Lords by Mr. Baron Atkins Mr Baron Gregory Mr. Speaker The Lords have commanded Us to acquaint you That they desire a present Conference with this House in the Painted Chamber to impart to this House several Examinations relating to the Popish plot in Ireland The Messengers being withdrawn Resolved That this House doth agree to meet the Lords at a present conference in the Painted Chamber as is desired The Messengers being called in Mr. Speaker acquaints them That the House had agreed to meet the Lords at a present Conference as desired Managers appointed to manage the said conference Mr. Hambden Reports from the said conference That the same was managed by the Lord Privy Seal and that his Lordship did then deliver to them several Examinations in Writing relating to the Popish plot in Ireland contained in Seven several parcels of paper which he delivered in at the Clerks Table And further reported that his Lordship acquainted them that all other papers in the Custody of the Clerk belonging to their House relating to the Popish plot should be delivered to the Clerk of this House he giving acquittances for the same Ordered That the several papers now delivered in at the Clerks Table be Read tomorrow morning at ten of the clock Ordered That Mr. Hethrington do attend this House tomorrow morning at Ten of the Clock to give in his Information relating to the horrid Popish plot A Petition of Sir Robert Cann Knight and Baronet now Prisoner in the Tower was Read whereby he acknowledged his Offence and begs the Pardon of the House and to be released from his Imprisonment Ordered That Sir Robert Cann be discharged from his Imprisonment and that Mr. Speaker do Issue out his Warrant for the doing thereof The House then Resolved into a Committee of the whole House to proceed in the Consideration of the Bill to disable James Duke of York to Inherit the Imperial Crown of England and Ireland and the Dominions and Territories thereunto belonging Mr. Speaker left the Chair Sir Willam Pulteney took the Chair of the Committee Mr. Speaker resumed the Chair Sir William Pulteney humbly moved from the said Committee of the whole House That the House would be pleased to Order the Serjeant at Arms to go into the hall and the Court of Requests and to require the immediate attendance of such Members of the house a are of the long Robe and all others the Members of the house And that the house would then Resolve again into a Committee of thâ— whole house to proceed further in the Consideration of the said Bill Ordered That the Serjeant at Arms do go into the hall and thâ— Court of Requsts and to Require all the Members of the long Robe and all other the Members of the house to give their immediate at tendance on the Service of this house Resolved That this house do now Resolve into a Committee oâ— the whole house to proceed further in the Consideration of the said Bill Then Mr. Speaker left the Chair Sir William Pulteney took the Chair of the Committee Mr. Speaker resumed the Chair Sir William Pulteney Reports from the Committee of the wholâ— house That the said Committeee had taken into Consideration thâ— said Bill and other the matters to them referred and had agreed up on an amendment to be made and a Clause to be added to the saiâ— Bill which he Read in his place and afterwards delivered the samâ— in at the Clerks Table where the same were twice Read And upon the Question severally agreed to An amendment being proposed to be made at the Table in the saiâ— Bill by filling up the Blanks in the 11th line of the 3d page of thâ— said Bill the first with the word Fifth the second with the word November in the Year of our Lord God 1680. was upon the Questioâ— agreed to A Clause being tendered to be added to the said Bill and Read to to the house and several amendments being made therein Resolved That the said Clause so amended be added to the said Bill Resolved That the said Bill with the said several Clauses and amendments be Ingrossed Ordered That Mr. Jennison do attend this house tomorrow morning at Ten of the Clock with his Evidence in Writing Martis 9. die Novembris 1680. Ordered THat all Committees that are discontinued be revived and do meet at Three of the Clock this Afternoon in the respective places formerly appointed A Petition of the Master Wardens and Assistants of the Company of Silk Thorsters London was Read Ordered That this petition be referred to the consideration of the Committee to whom the Bill for the Encouragement of the Woollen Manufacture by the general Wearing thereof is committed to Examine the matter thereof and Report the same with their Oppnions therein to this Hose A petition of the Bailiffs Wardens and Assistants of the Company of Silk-Weavers London was Read And the Question being put whether the said petition should be referred to the consideration of the Committee to whom the Bill for the better Encouragement of the Woollen-manufacture by the general Wearing thereof stands committed It passed after a long Debate in the Negative Resolved That the said petition be referred to the consideration of the Grand committee for Trade And they are to proceed upon the same in the first place And they are then likwise to consider of the present state of the East India company and to Report the same with their Opinions therein to the house Mr. Secretary Jenkins acquaints the house that he had a message to deliver from his Majesty to this house And the same being by him delivered in Writing to Mr. Speaker was
of Members to serve in the Commons House of Parliament was Read the first time Resolved That this Bill be read a second time on Munday morning next And that the Bill for Regulating Elections of members to serve in the Commons House of Parliament be read at the same time Mr. Treby Reports from the Committee of Elections and priviledges That the said Committee having taken into consideration the matter of Election and return for the Borough of Haslemere in the County of Surrey that the Committee had agreed upon three Resolves to be reported to the House which he read in his place and are as followeth viz. Resolved That Sir William Moore Baronet is not duly chosen a Burgess to serve in this present Parliament for the Borough of Haslemere in the County of Surrey Resolved That Denzil Onslow Esq is duly chosen for the same Resolved That Francis Dorrington Esq is duly chosen for the same Which report being delivered in at the Clerks Table the House did agree with the Committee in the said several and respective Resolves Ordered That the Clerk of the Crown and the Bailiff of the said Borough of Haslemere do attend the House tomorrow Morning at Ten of the Clock to amend the said return Ordered That William Rapley Bailiff of the said Borough of Haslemere be sent for in custody of the Serjeant at Arms attending this House to answer at the Bar of this House for the misdemeanours by him committed in the Election and return of Members to serve in this present Parliament for the Borough of Haslemere Ordered That Mr. Turbervill and Mr. Jennison have the leave of this House to Print their several Informations relating to the horrid Popish Plot. Ordered That an humble address be made to his Majestie by such Members of this House as are of His Majesties most honourable Privy-Council for a full Pardon to Mr. Jennison of all Treasons Misprisions of Treasons and other Misdemeanours by him committed to the time of the Discovery made by him to this House of the horrid Popish Plot. Mr. Hethrington Mr. Murphey M. John Fitz-Gerald and Mr. Daniel Fitz-Gerald being called in made a discovery at the Bar of the Popish plot in Ireland Ordered That all the Witnesses touching the Popish plot in Ireland do attend this House tomorrow morning at ten of the clock Sir William Jones Reports from the Committee appointed to draw up an address to his Majestie upon the Debate of the House in Answer to his Majesties Gracious Message An Address agreed upon by the Committee which he Read in his place and afterwards delivered the same in at the Clerks Table where the same being read was upon the Question Agreed to by the House Ordered That such members of this House as are of His Majesties most Honourable Privy Council be desired to know His Majesties pleasure when this house-shall attend him with the said Address An Engrossed Bill to disable James Duke of York to inherit the Imperial Crown of England and Ireland with the Dominions and Territories therunto belonging was Read a third time Resolved That this Bill do pass And that the Title be An Act for Securing of the Protestant Religion by Disabling James Duke of York to Inherit the Imperial Crown of England and Ireland the Dominions and Territories thereunto belonging Ordered That the Lord Russel do carry up this Bill to the Lords for their Concurrence Veneris 12. die Novembris 1680. A Petition of Sir Robert Yeamans in custody of the Serjeant at Arms attending this House was read Ordered That the said Sir Robert Yeamans be brought to the Bar of this House tomorrow morning at ten of the clock A Petition of Richard Janeway in custody of the Serjeant at Arms attending this House was read Ordered That the said Richard Janeway be brought to the Bar of this House tomorrow morning at ten of the clock An ingrossed Bill sent from the Lords intituled An Act for Freeing the City of London and His Majesties Courts and parts adjacent from Popish Inhabitants and Providing against other Dangers which may arise from Papists was read the first time Resolved That the said Bill be read a second time after ten of the clock in a full House The Clerk of the Crown and the Bailiff of the Borough of Haslemere in the County of Surrey being called in amended the Return of the said Borough by taking off the Indenture whereby Sir William Moore Baronet and James Gresham Esq were Returned and by razing out the Name of Sir William Moore and inserting the Name of Francis Dorington Esq in the other Indenture Mr. Hobart Bourk Mr. Thomas Sampson Mr. John Macnamarra and Eustace Coning being severally called in gave an Account of some Proceedings relating to the Popish Plot in Ireland Ordered That an humble Address be made to His Majesty by such Members of this House as are of His Majesties most Honourable Privy Council to desire His Majesty to grant a full and effectual Pardon to Edmond Murphy Hobart Bourke Thomas Sampson John Macnamarra John Fitz-Gerald and Eustace Coning who have made a considerable Discovery to this House of the Popish Plot in Ireland for all Treasons Misprisions of Treason Crimes and Offences by them committed to the time of their making their respective Discoveries to this House And that His Majesty would likewise be pleased to take them into His Royal Protection and Care Mr. David Fitz-Gerald being called in gave in a further Information to the House relating to the Popish Plot in Ireland Resolved That a Message be sent to the Lords to acquaint them with the Resolution of this House to proceed to the Trial of the Lords in the Tower and forthwith to begin with William Viscount Stafford and to desire their Lordships to appoint a convenient Day for the Tryal of the said William Viscount Stafford And likewise to desire their Lordships That the Lords in the Tower may be confined and kept from holding Correspondence with one another as persons impeached and committed for High Treason by Law ought to be And That Sir William Jones do go up with this Message to the Lords Sir Francis Winnington reported and delivered in at the Table the Abstracts of the Proceedings of the Two last Parliaments as well relating to the Popish Plot as to the Impeachments against the Lords in the Tower Sir William Jones acquaints the House That he had according to the Order of the House attended the Lords with the Message and that their Lordships were pleased to return Answer by him to this effect viz. That as to that part of the Message relating to the Confinement of the Lords and their Correspondence they had already given Order therein as desired by this House That as to the other part of the Message relating to the appointing of a Day for the Tryal of William Viscount Stafford their Lordships have appointed Tuesday come fortnight for the said Tryal Ordered That a further Address be made to His Majesty
for the Sitting of this Parliament hath betrayed the Rights of the Subject Resolved That this House doth agree with the Committee that Sir George Jeffereys by traducing and obstructing Petitioning for the Sitting of this Parliament hath betrayed the Rights of the Subject Ordered That an humble Address be made to his Majesty to remove Sir George Jeffereys out of all publick Offices And a Committee is appointed to draw up the same Ordered That the Members of this House that Serve for the City of London do communicate this Vote and Resolution of this House relating to Sir George Jeffereys to the Court of Aldermen for the City of London Ordered That the Committee last mentioned do enquire into all such persons as have been advising or promoting of the late Proclamation stiled A Proclamation against Tumultuous Petitioning and they are Impowered to send for Persons Papers and Records Lunae 15 die Novembris 1680. A Bill against the Importation of Cattel from Scotland was Read the First time Resolved That the Bill be Read asecond time on Saturday morning next at ten of the Clock Mr. Treby Reports from the Committee of Elections and Priviledges That the Committee had taken the matter touching the Election and Return of Members to Serve in this present Parliament for the City of Westminster and had agreed upon Four Resolves which he Read in his place and afterwards delivered them in at the Clerks Table and are as followeth Resolved That the King 's menial Servants not having proper Houses of their own within the City of Westminster have not Right to give Voices in the Elction of Citizens to serve in Parliament for the said City Resolved That Sir William Pulteney is duly chosen a Citizen to serve in this present Parliament for the City of Westminster Resolved That Sir Francis Withins was not duly chosen a Citizen to serve in this Parliament for the City of Westminister Resolved That Sir William Waller is duly chosen a Citizen to servein this Parliament for the City of Westminster The House agreed upon several Questions with the Committee in the said several and respective resolves Ordered That the Clerke of the Crown and the Bailiff of Westminster do attend this House tomorrow morning at Ten of the clock to amend the Return according to the Resolution of the House Mr. Secretary Jenkins acquaints the House That His Majesty had sent a Message to the House in writting which he delivered at the Clerks Tabie and being Read by Mr. Speaker is as follows CHARLES REX HIs Majesty did in His Speech at the opening of this Session desire the Advice and Assistance of His Parliament in relation to Tangier the condition and Importance of the place obliges His Majesty to put this House in mind again That He relies upon them for the suport of it without which it cannot be much longer preserved His Majesty does therefore very earnestly recommend Tangier again to the due and speedy consideration and care of this House Resolved That this House will proceed in the consideration of His Majesties Message on Wednesday morning next at Ten of the clock An Engrossed Bill sent down from the Lords Entituled An Act for the better Regulating the Tryals of the Peers of England was read a second time Resolved That this Bill be committed upon the Debate of the House A Petition of William Rapley late Bailiff of Haslemere in the County of Surrey now in Custody of the Serjeant at Arms attending this House was Read Ordered That the said William Rapley be brought to the Bar of this House tomorrow morning at Ten of the clock Ordered That the two last Bills concerning the Regulating of Elections of Members to Serve in the Commons House of Parliment be Read a second time tomorrow morning Mr. Dugdale being called in gave his further Information at the Bar Relating to the Popish Plot in writing A Petition of Sir Tho Whitegrave Francis Eld and Sampson Birch was Read Ordered That the consideration of this Petition be Referred to the Committee appointed to receive Informations concerning the Popish Plot and to Enquire into the same And they are to Report the same with their Opinions therein to this House Ordered That Mr. Dudgale have Liberty to Print his own Narative given to this House relating to the Popish Plot. Mr. Bourke Mr. Macnamarre and Eustace Coning being called in presented their several Informations formerly given at the Bar of this House relating to the Popish Hot in Ireland in Writing Mr. Yarrington Mr. Simonds Mr. Lee Mr. Janeway Mr. Everingham Mr. James and Mr. Bradwell being called in and severally Examined touching a Pamphlet lately printed wherein are several reflections upon Sir Edward Deering a Member of this House And thesaid Mr. Yarrington acquainting the House That all the Animadversions contained in the said Pamphlet were Penned by Dr. Tongue that he received the Abstract of the several Lettets therein mentioned from a Scrivener in Essex Court in the Temple And a Debate arising in the House upon the whole matter Resolved Nemine contradicente That all the reflective parts of the said Pamphlet upon Sir Edward Deering a Member of this House are False Scandalous and Libellous Ordered That Dr. Tongue Have notice to attend this House tomorrow Morning at Ten of the Clock Ordered That Mr. Yarrington Mr. Simonds Mr. Lee Mr. Everingham Mr. James Mr. Bradwell and Robert Groom Scriverner be Committed to the Custody of the Serjeant at Arms attending this House for their Breach of Priviledge by them committed against Sir Edward Deering a Member of this House Ordered That Richard Janeway be discharged from the Custody of the Serjeant at Arms Paying his Fees and that he receive the Censure of the House upon his knees from Mr. Speaker which was done accordingly Martis 16. die Novembris 1680. THe Clerk of the Crown and the Bailiff of Westminster being called in Amended the Return of members to serve in this present Parlialiament for the said City of Westminster by razing out the name of Sir Francis Withins and inserting the name of Sir William Waller And then the house Adjourned to 8 of the clock tomorrow morning Mercurij 17. die Novembris 1680. THe House according to the Order of Munday last taking into consideration his Majesties message relating to Tangier Resolved Nemine contradicente That a Committee be appointed to draw up an address to be presented to his Majesty upon the Debate of the house humbly representing to his Majesty the dangerous State and condition of the Kingdom in anser to his Majesties said message Ordered That Mr. Treby do make his report in Writing on saturday morning next A Debate arising in the house That an address be made to his Majesty humbly to desire his Majesty to remove George Earl of Hallifax from his Majesties presence and Councils for ever Resolved That an address be made to his Majesty humbly to desire his Majesty to remove George Earl of Hallifax from his Majesties
Serjeant at Armes to answer at the Bar for a high Breach of Priviledge by him Committed aganst this House Mr. Secretary Jenkins acquaints the House that His Majesty having been attended by such Members of this House as are of His Majesties most Honourable Privy Council to know His Majesties pleasure When this House should attend Him with an address His Majesty hath appointed three of the Clock this afternoon for the House to attend him in the banqueting-Banqueting-house at White-hall Ordered That leave be given to bring in a Bill to Supply the Laws against Bankrupcy Ordered That leave be given to bring in a Bill to take away the Court held before the Lord President and Council in the Marches of Wales A Bill for Repeal of an Act made in the 35. Year of the Reign of Queen Elizabeth cap. 1. was Read a Second time And no Exceptions being made to the same Ordered That the said Bill be Engrossed Resolved That an Humble Address be made to His Majesty from this House by such Members thereof as are of His Majesties most Honourable Privy Council to desire His Majesty to give Orders that all Protestant Dissenters who are Prosecuted upon any penal Laws made against Popish Recusants in the Reign of Queen Elizabeth and King James may be admitted to a Composition in the Exchequer without paying any Fees Ordered That leave be given to bring in a Bill declaring that the Acts of Parliament made in the Reigns of Queen Elizabeth and King James against Popish Recusants shall not be extended against Protestant Dissenters Ordered That the Committee appointed to prepare and Bring in a Bill for the better Uniting of all His Majesties Protestant Subjects have 〈…〉 bring in One or more Bill or Bills for that purpose Mr. Attorney General being called in and Examined touching the manner of Issuing forth the Proclamation Stiled A Proclamation against Tumultuous Petitions and giving an account to the House that Sir Fran. North Chief Justice of the Court of Common Pleas was advising and assisting in the drawing up and passing of the said Proclamation And a Debate arising in the House thereupon Resolved Nemine Contradicente That the Evidence this day given to this House against Sir Fran North Chief Justice of the Court of Common-pleas is a sufficient Ground for this House to proceed upon to an Impeachment against him for high Crimes and misdemeanors Ordered That it be referred to the Committee appointed to examine the proceedings of the Judges in Westminster-Hall to prepare Heads of an Impeachment against the said Sir Francis North and to present the same to the House And the said Committee is to sit de die in diem Ordered That William Rapley Bayliff of Haslemere in the County of Surrey being in Custody of the Serjeant at Arms attending this House be brought to the Bar of this House tomorrow Morning at Ten of the Clock to receive the Censure of the House Jovis 25. die Novem. 1680. Ordered THat a Message be sent to the Lords desiring their Lordships to appoint a Committee to joyn with a Committee of this House for the Adjusting the Methods and Circumstances relating to the Tryals of the Lords in the Tower and that Mr. Treby do go up to the Lords with the said Message A Petition of the Inhabitants of the County of Norfolk against Samuel Verdon Under-Sheriff of the said County for several Crimes and Misdemeanours by him Committed was Head Ordered That a Committee be appointed to Examine the Matters contained in the said Petition to Report the same with their Opinion therein to the House it is Referred to a Committee the same Committee is likewise Impowered to Examine the Abuses Miscarragies and Misdemeanors Committed by all Under-Sheriffs throughout the Kingdom Ordered That the said Samuel Verdon be sent for in Custody of the Serjeant at Arms attending this House to Answer at the Bar of the House for a Notorious Breach of Privilidge by him Committed against this House A Petition of Mr. Thomas Staples being in Custody of the Serjeant at Arms attending this House was Read Ordered That Mr. Staples be called in and do receive the Censure of the House at the Bar upon his Knees from Mr. Speaker and that he be then Discharged paying his Fees which was done accordingly A Message from the Lords by Sir John Coell and Sir Timothy Baldwyn Mr. Speaker The Lords have commanded us to acquaint this House that His Majesty having been Desired to appoint a Time when both Houses should attend Him with an Address for a Fast His Majesty was pleased to return answer That it is His Majesties Pleasure that both Houses do attend Him at Three of the Clock this Afternoon in the Banquetting-House The Articles of Impeachments against Edward Seymour Esq a member of the House being Read Resolved That the Articles be Read One by one and that Mr. Seymour do make his answer to each respective Article in his place which being accordingly done and Mr. Seymour withdrawn The first of the said Articles being Read to the House and a Debate arising in the House thereupon Resolved That the Debate be Adjourned to Ten of the Clock to Morrow Morning The Addresses Humbly presented to His MAJESTY From Both Houses of Parliament for a Day of HUMILIATION with His MAJESTIES Gracious Answer WE Your Majesties most Dutiful and Loyal Subjects the Lords Spiritual and Temporal and Commons in this present Parliament Assembled being deeply sensible of the sad and calamitous condition of this your Majesties Kingdom occasioned chiefly by the impious and horrid Conspiracies of a Popish Party who have not only Plotted and Intended the destruction of Your Majesties Royal Person but the Total Subversion of the Government and true Religion established amongst us and finding the same detestable Machinations still obstinately prosecuted by them as well by somenting divisions amongst your Majesties Loyal Protestant Subjects as all other the most wicked Contrivances notwithstanding the many discoveries thereof by Gods great mercy and wonderful providence lately brought to light all which dreadful Judgments are now impending over us most deservedly for our many and grievous sins and cannot otherwise in humane reason be prevented but by the particular blessing of God upon the Consultations and Endeavours of your great Council now Assembled in Parliament Do in all humility beseech your Majesty that by your Royal Proclamation a Day may be solemnly set apart wherein both our selves and all your Majesties Loyal Subjects may by Fasting and prayers endeavour a Reconciliation with Almighty God and with humble and penitent hearts implore him by his power and goodness to divert those Judgments and defeat the wicked counsels and deivces of our Enemies to Unite the hearts of your loyal Protestant Subjects and to continue his mercy and the light of his Gospel to us and our Posterities and more especially to bestow his abundant blessings on your Sacred Majesty and this present Parliament that our Consultations and
Endeavours may produce Honour Safety and prosperity to your Majesty and your People His Majesties Gracious Answer to this Address That His Majesty will give Order for a Day of Humiliation as is desired Veneris 26 die Novemb. 1680. MR. Speaker acquaints the House that both Houses having attended his Majesty in the Banquetting house yesterday in the afternoon with the Address for a day of Humiliation His Majesty was pleased graciously to answer That his Majesty will give order for a day of Humiliation as is desired Ordered That the Cause concerning the Election of Members to serve in this present Parliament for the Burrough of Taunton be heard at the Bar of this House tomorrow morning at Ten of the Clock A Petition of the Master Wardens Assistance and Company of Felt-makers was Read Ordered That the Consideration of the said Petition be referred to the Committee to whom the Bill for encouragement of the Woolen manufacture by the general wearing thereof is committed A Petition of Thomas Dare of Taunton a prisoner in execution for a Fine of 500 l. set upon him was Read Ordered That an humble Application be made to His Majesty from this House by such Members thereof as are of His Majesties most Honourable Privy Council to desire His Majesty to Pardon and remit the said Fine A Message from the Lords Mr. Speaker The Lords have commanded us to acquaint you That the Lords out of their great care to expedite the Tryal of the Lord Viscount Stafford on Tuesday next having agreed upon some Rules and directions to be observed at the said Tryal which they thought fit to communicate to this House and delivered in a Paper containing the said Rules Mr. Secretary Jenkins acquaints the House That His Majesty had been attended by such Members of this House as are of His Majesties most Honourable Privy Council with an address concerning the Protestant Dissenters and that His Majesties answer is That they shall be discharged and without Fees as far as may be done according to Law and that they shall be recommended to the Judges Mr. Treby acquaints the House That he had attended the Lords with a Message desiring their Lordships to appoint a Committee to joyn with a Committee of this House for adjusting the matters and circumstances relating to the Tryals of the Lords in the Tower That they would send an answer to this House by Messengers of their own Sir William Poultney reports from the Committee of Elections Priviledges that the said Committee having taken into consideration the matter touching the election and return of Members to serve in this present Parliament for the Burrough of Monmouth in the County of Monmouth had agreed upon Four several Resolves which he read in his place afterwards delivered the same in at the Clerks Table where the same being read are as followeth Resolved That the Election of a Burgess to serve in Parliament for the Burrough of Monmouth doth not belong to the Burgesses Inhabitants of the Borrough of Monmouth only Resolved That the Burgesses Inhabitants of the Burrough of Newport and Vske in the County of Monmouth have a Right by Vote in the Election of a Burgess to serve in Parliament for the said Burrough of Monmouth Resolved That Charles Lord Herbert is not duly Elected Burgess to serve in this present Parliament for the said Burrough of Monmouth Resolved That John Arnold Esq is duly Elected Burgess to serve in this present Parliament for the said Burrough of Monmouth To all which Resolves the House agreed Sir John Trevor Reports from the Committee of Elections and Priviledges that the Committee having taken into Consideration the matter touching the Election and Return for Westbury in the County of Wilts had agreed upon Four several Resolves which he read in his place and afterwards delivered the same in at the Clerks Table where the same being read are as followeth Resolved That Henry Bertie Esq is not duly elected Burgess to serve in this present Parliament for the Burrough of Westbury in the County of Wilts Resolved That Richard Lewis Esq is not duly elected Burgess to serve in this present Parliament for the Burrough of Westbury in the County of Wilts Resolved That Richard Lewis Esq is not duly elected Burgess to serve in this present Parliament for the Burrough of Westbury in the County of Wilts Resolved That Will Trenchard Esq is duly elected Burgess to serve in this present Parliament for the Burrough of Westbury in the County of Wilts Resolved That Edward Norton Esq is duly elected Burgess to serve in this present Parliament for the Burrough of Westbury in the County of Wilts To all which Resolves the House agreed Ordered That the Clerk of the Crown do attend tomorrow morning at Ten of the Clock to amend the Return for the said Burrough of Westbury The House being informed from the Chairman of the said Committee of several Miscariages Misdemeanors committed by Samuel Gibbs late Mayor of the said Burrough of Westbury in the said election Ordered That the said Samuel Gibbs be sent for in Custody of the Serjeant at Arms attending this House to answer at the Bar of this House for the great Misdemeanors by him Committed in the said Election Ordered That Mr. Treby do make his Reports touching the Elections for the Burrough of Agmondesham in the County of Bucks and for the Burrough of Malborough in the County of Wilts on Munday morning next The Clerk of the Crown being called in Amended the Return for the Burrough of Monmouth by razing out the Name of Charles Lord Herbert and inserting the Name of John Arnold Esq instead thereof An Ingrossed Bill for the Repeal of an Act made in the 35th year of the Reign of Queen Elizabeth was Read the third time Resolved That the Bill do pass and that the Title be an Act for the Repeal of a Statute made in the 35th year of the Reign of Queen Elizabeth and that Sir Eliab Harvey do carry up the Bill to the Lords for their Concurrence William Rapley late Bayliff of the Burrough of Haslemere in the County of Surrey being brought to the Bar and there kneeling received the Censure of this House from Mr. Speaker and was discharged from the Custody of the Serjeant at Arms paying his Fees Ordered That Leave be given to bring in a Bill for the better discovery of Settlements of Estates for Superstitious uses The House then resumed the adjourned debate relating to the Impeachment against Edward Seymour Esq a member of this House The Question being put That the Consideration of the Articles of Impeachment against Mr. Seymour be referred to a Committee It passed in the Negative Resolved Upon several Questions That there is matter sufficient in the four Articles to Impeach Mr. Seymour Resolved That Mr. Seymour be Impeached upon these Articles Ordered That a Committee be appointed to prepare the said Impeachments Ordered That it be referred to the same Committee to consider of Precedents
go into the Countrey for recovery of his health A message from the Lords by Sir Timothy Baldwin and Sir Samuel Clark Mr. Speaker The Lords have sent Us to acquaint this House that they have ordered William Viscount Stafford to be brought again to his Tryal at the Bar in Westminster-Hall tomorrow morning at Ten of the Clock Ordered That the Adjourned Debate relating to the Information Yesterday Communicated to this House from his Majestie be further Adjoured to Monday morning next at Ten of the Clock Die Veneris 3o. Decembris 1680. Ordered by the Lords Spiritual and Temporal in Parliament Assembled that all Persons as well Peers as others that are Papists and now in or about the Cities of London or Westminster be and are hereby Required forthwith to Depart from the same at their Peril of undergoing the utmost Punishment as can be by Law Inflicted upon them for their Disobedience herein And further That this Order be forthwith Printed and Published to the end all Persons concerned may take notice thereof Jo Browne Cleric Parliament Sabati 4. Die Decem. 1680 Ordered THat Mr. Sanderson a Member of this House have leave to go into the Country for recovery of his health Ordered That Mr. Secretary Jenkins be added to the Committee to whom the Bill for taking away the Court holden before the President and Council in the Marches of Wales is committed Ordered That the Matter touching the Election for the Town of Taunton in the County of Somerset which was appointed for this day be heard at the Bar of this House on Tuesday morning next A Bill for the better securing the payment of an annuity or Rent-charge of 130 l. per annum out of the Mannors and Farms of Bexhill and Cowding in the County of Sussex to the Use of the Poor of several Parishes in the County of Surrey was Read the first time Resolved That the said Bill be Read a second time Mr. Speaker left the Chair And the Committee of the Commons Proceeded in the Management of the Impeachment against William Viscount Stafford before the Lords in Parliament Post Meridiem The Committee of the Commons returned to the House Mr. Speaker resumed the Chair The House being Informed That Mr. William Stawell in Custody of the Serjeant at Arms Attending this House is sick and not able to Appear before this House Ordered That Mr. Stawell have a Months time given him for such his appearance A Message from the Lords by Sir Timothy Baldwyn and Sr. Samuel Clarke Mr Speaker The Lords have sent us to acquaint this House That they have Ordered William Viscount Stafford to be brought again to the Bar in Westminster Hall on Monday Morning next at Ten of the Clock Lunae 6. die Decemb. 1680. JOhn Loos did this day take the Oaths of Allegiance and Supremacy in order to his Naturalization Ordered That Mr. Edward Nosworthy the Younger and Mr. Serjeant Rigby Members of this House have leave to go into the Country A Petition of Knyvet Hastyngs Esq in Custody of the Serjeant at Arms Attending this House was Read Ordered That the said Mr. Hastings be discharged from any further Confinement A Petition of Richard Thompson Clerk in Custody of the Serjeant at Arms Attending this House being presented to the House Ordered That the said Petition do lye upon the Clerks Table Mr. Speaker left the Chair And the Committee of the Commons did Proceed in the Management of the Impeachment against William Viscount Stafford before the Lords in Parliament Post Meridiem The Committee of the Commons returned to the House Mr. Speaker resumed the Chair Ordered That the Name of John Loos who this day took the Oaths of Allegiance and Supremacy be inserted in the Bill of Naturalization A Message from the Lords by Sir Timothy Baldwyn and Sir Samuel Clarke Mr. Speaker The Lords have Commanded us to acquaint this House that they have Appointed William Viscount Stafford to be brought to the Bar in Westminster-Hall tomorrow morning an Ten of the Clock to hear Judgment Resolved Nemine Contradicente That this House will go tomorrow morning with their Speaker to the Bar of the House of Lords and Demand Judgment upon the Impeachment of the Commons of England against William Viscount Stafford Ordered That no Member of this House do go into the Court in Westminster-Hall tomorrow morning before this House shall have demanded Judgment at the Bar of the Lords upon the Impeachment of the Commons of England against William Viscount Stafford and that Mr. Howard have notice hereof Martis 7 die Decemb. 1680. VVilliam Leonardson Robolt did this day take the Oaths of Allegiance and Supre macy in Order to his Naturalization Mr. Speaker left the Chair The Committee of the Commons Appointed for the Mangement of the Impeachment against William Viscount Stafford were present at the Court in Westminster-Hall when the Lords found William Viscount Stafford guilty of the High-Treason whereof he stands Impeached The Committee of the Commons returned to the House Mr. Speaker resumed the Chair The House then with Mr. Speaker went up to the Bar of the Lords House and by Mr. Speaker demanded Judgment of High-Treason against William Viscount Stafford upon the Impeachment of the Commons of England in Parliament in the Name of the Commons in Parliament and of all the Commons of England The House being returned Ordered That Doctor Burnett be desired to Preach before this House at St. Margarets Westminster upon the Fast day Appointed by His Majesties Proclamation and Colonel Titus is desired to acquaint him therewith Ordered That Doctor Spratt be likewise desired to Preach before this House on the same day and Sir John Trevor is desired to Acquaint him therewith A Message from the Lords by Sir Timothy Baldwyn and Sir Samuel Clark Mr. Speaker We are commanded by the Lords to acquaint this House that their Lordships are going presently into Westminster-Hall to give Judgment against William Viscount Stafford Mr. Speaker left the Chair The Committee of the Commons appointed for the management of the Impeachment against William Viscount Stafford were present at the Court in Westminster-Hall when the Lords gave Judgment of High-Treason against William Viscount Stafford upon the Impeachment of the Commons The Committee of the Commons returned to the House Mr. Speaker resumed the Chair Ordered That the Name of William Leonardson Robolt who this day took the Oaths of Allegiance and Supremacy be inserted in the Bill of Naturalization Mercurii 8 die Decemb. 1680. JOhn Woder and John Oort did this day take the Oaths of Allegiance and Supremacy at the Clerks Table in order to their Naturalization Ordered That the Names of the said John Woder and John Oort be inserted in the Bill of Naturalization The House being informed that Sir John Cutler who is returned as one of the Burgesses to Serve in this Parliament for the Burtough of Taunton in the County of Somerset is satisfied that he is not duly Elected a Burgess
said Burrough of Agmondesham And that the said Election is void To which Resolves the House agreed Ordered That Mr. Speaker do Issue out his Warrant to the Clerk of the Crowne to make out a new Writ for the Electing of a Burgess to ferve in this present Parliament for the said Burrough of Agmondesham Ordered That the Chairman of the Committee of Elections and Priviledges do make Report of the Matter touching the Election for the Burrough of Marlow in the County of Bucks on Tuesday Morning next Ordered That the Mr Wilson be taken in Custody of the Serjeant at Arms Attending this House for a breach of Priviledge by him Committed against this House Ordered That Mr. Day being in Custody of the Serjeant at Arms Attending this House be Discharged from his further Confinment Ordered That the Chairman of the Committee Appointed to Examine the Matter of the Information against Sir Robert Peyton do Report the same on Tuesday Morning next Lunae 13 Die Decemb. 1680 DIrck Vander-Stegen and Mathias Cole did this day take the Oaths of Allegianee and Supremacy at the Clerks Table in order to their Naturalization Ordered That the Names of the said Dirck-Vander Stegen and Mathias Cole be inserted in the Bills of Naturalization A Bill for Exportation of Cloth and other Woollen Manufactures into Turky was read a second time and a debate arising thereupon Ordered That this Bill do lie on the Clerks Table Ordered That Mr. Francis Lutterell and Sir Thomas Whitmore Members of this House have leave to go into the Country Ordered That the Committee appointed to look into and prepare Evidence against the Lords in the Tower do examin the evidence against all Persons concerned in the Popish Plot and they are to report the names of such persons together with their opinions therein to the House upon the Debate Resolved Nemine Contradicente That this House will on Wednesday morning next at Ten of the Clock resolve it self into a Committee of the whole House to consider of wayes and means to secure the Kingdom against Popery and Arbitrary Power Ordered That leave be given to bring in a Bill for banishing of all Papists and suspected Papists from the Cities of London and Westminster and 20 Miles of the same with clauses therein for disarming of all Papists and for pains and penalty against all such Papists or suspected Papists as shall either ride go or be armed Ordered That the Knights of the respective Shires Citizens of the respective Cities Burgesses of the several Burroughs and Barons of the Cinque-Ports within this Kingdom do with all convenient speed bring in Lists of all Papists and reputed Papists within the said several Counties Cities Burroughs and Cinque-Ports Ordered That the Lord Annesly a Member of this House have liberty to repair to Mr. Sheridon A Petition of Captain William Castle was read Ordered That the said Captain Castle be brought to the Bar tomorrow morning and do receive the Censure of the House upon his knees from Mr. Speaker Ordered That Mr. Lucy be added to the Committee appointed to examin the proceedings of the Judges in Westminster-Hall And to prepare an Impeachment against Sir Francis North Chief Justice of the Court of Common Pleas. Martis 14. die Decemb 1680. A Bill for rectifying several Errors and mistakes in certain Deeds of Settlement made upon the Marriage of Sir Charles Hoghton Barronet with Mary the Daughter of John Lord Viscount Massareen was read the first time Resolved c. That the Bill be read a second time on Thursday morning next Mr. England reports from the Commitee appointed to examine the matter of the complaint made by the Inhabitants of the County of Norfolk against Samuel Verdon Undersheriff of the said County That the Committee having taken the same into their Consideration had directed him to make a special Report to the House which he read in his Place and afterwards delivered the same in at the Clerks Table where the same being read Ordered That the said Committee do proceed to examin all Matters of complaint against the said Samuel Verdon without further Summons Ordered That Mr. Baispole be sent for in custody of the Serjeant at Arms attending this House to answer at the Bar for a Breach of Priviledge by him committed against this House A Petition of Mr Jerimiah Bubb being read Ordered That the said Mr. Bubb be discharged from any further Attendance Ordered That Mr. William Tyler be discharged from any further confinement without paying Fees Information being given to the House that Herbert Herring some weeks since ordered to be taken in custody of the Serjeant at Arms attending this House to answer for a breach of Priviledge by him committed against Mr. Colt a Member of this Honse hath and still doth abscond himself to avoid the Execution of the said Order Resolved c. That if the said Herbert Herring do not render himself to the said Serjeant at Arms before Saturday next this House will proceed against him by a Bill in Parliament for endeavouring by his Absconding to avoid the Justice of this House Ordered That the Chairman of the Committee to whom the Bill for the better Regulating the Trials of Peers is Committed do make Report thereof on Thursday Morning next A Petition of Roderick Mansell Esq was Read Mr. Mansell being called gave an account to the House of the Matter relating to Sir Robert Peyton Sir William Roberts Reports from the Committee appointed to examin the matter relating to Sir Robert Peyton that the Committee having taken the same into their Consideration had agreed upon a Report which he read in his place and afterwards delivered the same in at the Clerks Table where the same being read Sir Robert Peyton having made his Defence in his Place and being withdrawn And the matter being debated in the House the House made the following Vote It appearing to this House by the Report made at the Bar and by the Confession of Sir Robert Peyton in his Place that Sir Robert Peyton had secret negotiation with the Duke of Tork by the means of the Earl of Peterborow Mrs. Cellier and Mr. Gadbury at such time when they were turning the Popish Plot upon the Protestants Ordered That Sir Robert Peyton be expelled this House And that Sir Robert Peyton be brought to the Bar and do receive the Censure of the House upon his knees from Mr. Speaker The Serjeant at Arms aquainting the House that Sir Robert Peyton had absented himself so that he could not be then found Ordered That the said Sir Robert Peyton be taken into Custody of the said Serjeant at Arms. Mercurii 15 Die Decemb. 1680. ORdered That Samuel Gibbs late Mayor of the Burrough of Westbury in the County of Wilts in Custody of the Serjeant at Arms attending this House be brought to the Bar and do receive the Censure of the House upon his knees from Mr. Speaker and be then discharged paying his fees which was done
Priviledges to whom the matter of Election for the City of Bristol was referred that the Committee haveing taken the same into their consideration had Agreed upon two Resolves which he read in his place and afterwards delivered the same in at the Clerkes Table where the same being Read are as followes viz. Resolved c. That Sir Robert Cann was not duly Elected a Citizen to serve in this present Parliament for the City of Bristol Resolved c. That Robert Henley Merchant is duely Elected a Citizen to serve in this present Parliament for the City of Bristol The first of the said Resolves being Read a second time Resolved c. Thath this House doth agree with the Committee that Sir Robert Cann was not duely Elected a Citizen to serve in this present Parliament for the City of Bristol The second of the said Resolves being Read a Second time and the Question being put that the House do Agree with the Committee in this Resolve It passed in the Negative Resolved c. That the Election for the City of Bristol as to Sir Robert Cann and Mr. Robert Henley is void Mr. Treby further Reports to the House that Sir John Lloyd late Mayor William Jackson and William Clutterbucke late Sheriffs of the said City of Bristol did at the time of the said Election commit several Misdemeanors relating to the said Election Ordered That the said Sir John Lloyd William Jackson and William Clutterbucke be sent for in Custody of the Serjeant at Arms attending this House to answer at the Bar of this House for the Misdemeanors by them committed at the said Election Ordered That Mr. Speaker do issue out his warrant to the Clerk of the Crown to make out a new writ for the Electing of a Citizen to serve in this present Parliament for the City of Bristol The Ingrost Articles of Impeachment against Mr. Seymour a Member of this House being Read Resolved That the said Articles be sent up to the Lords Ordered That Sir Gilbert Gerrard do carry up the same to the Lords Mr. Hamden Reports from the Committee appointed to prepare an Humble Address to His Majestie upon the Debate of the House in answer to his Majesties Speech an Address agreed upon by the Committee to which the House agreed Ordered That such Members of this House as are of his His Majesties most Honourable Privy Council be desired to know His Majesties Pleasure when this House may attend his Majesty with the same Address Ordered That the Chairman of the Committee appointed to examine the proceedings of the Judges in Westminster-Hall do make report of the matters to them referred tomorrow morning Ordered That the two Bills for the ease of Protestant Dissenters be Read tomorrow Morning Ordered That Sir Francis Winnington do on Thursday morning next bring in a Bill for Banishing all the Considerable Papists of England out of His Majesties Dominions Ordered That the Knights of the respective Shires Citizens of Cities Burgesses of Burroughs and Barons of the Cinque-ports do in the mean time bring in Lists of all the considerable Papists within the said several Counties Cities Burroughs and Cinque-ports A Petition of Algernon Sidney Esq being presented to the House Ordered That the said Petition be read tomorrow Morning Martis 21 die Decemb. 1680. THomas Verigny did this day take the Oaths of Allegiance and Supremacy at the Clerks Table in Order to his Naturalization A Bill to enable John Jenner Gent. to make leases of some part of his Estate for the payment of his Debts and for the making provision for his younger Children was read the first time Resolved That the Bill be read a second time Mr. Papillon reports from the Committee to whom the Bill for Naturalization of Peter Elers and others was committed that the Committee having taken the same into their consideration had agreed to some amendments to be made to the same which he read in his place and afterwards delivered the same in at the Clerks Table where the same being read were upon the question agreed to Ordered That the name of Thomas Verigny who this day took the Oaths of Allegiance and Supremacy in order to his Naturalization and whose Certificate of his having received the Sacrament was delivered in be inserted in the said Bill Ordered That the Bill with these amendments be engrossed Ordered That Mr. George Savage a Member of this House have leave to go into the Country for recovery of his health Sir John Otway reports from the Committee to whom the Bill for rectifying several errors and mistakes in certain Deeds and Settlements made upon the Marriage of Sir Charles Hoghton Baronet with Mary the Daughter of John Lord Viscount Massareen was committed That the Committee having taken the same into their consideration had agreed upon some amendments to be made to the same which he read in his place and afterwards delivered them in at the Clerks Table where the same being read were upon the Question agreed to Ordered That the Bill with these Amendments be ingrossed Mr. Duboys reports from the Committee appointed to prepare an humble Address to His Majesty for the remitting a Fine of 500 l. set upon Benjamin Harris An Address agreed upon by the Committee which he read in his place and afterwards delivered the same in at the Clerks Table where the same being read was upon the Question agreed to Ordered That this Address be presented to His Majesty by such Members of this House as are of His Majesties most Honourable Privy Council Information being given to the House that Henry Carew a Fryar of the Order of St. Malo's in France hath for several years last past executed the Office of Surveyor of the Customs in the Port of Bristol Ordered That it be referred to the consideration of the Committee appointed to receive Informations touching the Popish Plot to examine the Matter of this Information and to report the same with their Opinions therein to the House Sir William Poultney reports from the Committee of Elections and Priviledges to whom the Matter touching the Election for Great Marlow in the County of Bucks was referred that the Committee having taken the same into their consideration had agreed upon several Resolves which he read in his place and afterwards delivered them in at the Clerks Table where the same being read are as follows viz. Resolved That it is the Opinion of this Committee that in the Borough of Great Marlow in the County of Bucks those Inhabitants onely who pay Scot and Lot have right to give Voices in the Election of Burgesses to serve in Parliament for the said Borough Resolved That it is the Opinion of this Committee that Sir Humphrey Winch Baronet is not duly Elected a Burgess to serve in this present Parliament for the said Borough of Great Marlow Resolved That it is the opinion of this Committee that Thomas Hobby Esq is not duly Elected a Burgess to serve in this present Parliament for
produce the said Day and with him to attend Dr. Day and Mr. Sheridon both appearing were examined severally And first the said Day who confest himself a Papist and pretended very little knowledg of Mr. Sheridon but that coming to give him a visit which he had not done of six weeks before Mr. Sheridon began to discourse of News and particularly of the Plot to which the said Doctor replyed that now the whole Plot would be discovered laid open for he heard there was one gone beyond Sea to fetch overa Priest that knew of the whole Plot and doth not remember any thing more at that time but common discourse But some few days after meeting with Mr. Sheridon the said Mr. Sheridon desired him to describe the person that was so sent over the said Dr. Day replyed that he knew not the person that was gone nor the Priest he was to fetch But that John Butler keeper of a Brandy-shop near the French Embassadours upon discourse had told him so to whom Mr. Sheridon desired him to go and get the discription which he did accordingly And the description being shewed him confessed he writ it from his mouth save the last line But saith that person is now dead who gave him the said Description but his wife is living Mr. Sheridon being then called in and examined said He had no great acquaintance with the said Doctor and seldom saw him but upon a visit which happily might be once a week or the like Confesseth That the said Doctor told him as News the Plot would now be laid open for there was one sent over into France to fetch a Priest that knew of the whole Plot and further saith That he that went over knew as much of the Plot as any man in England Whereupon the said Sheridon Confesseth That he went shortly after but remembers not how long to Secretary Jenkins and told him that there was one gone over into France that knew as much of the Plot as any man and that he went over to fetch a Priest that also knew the whole Plot which he the said Sheridon supposed was to be a witness Upon which the said Secretary commanded him the said Sheridon to give him a description of the person so sent over But remembers no other discourse at that time but that some short time after but remembers not how long he met with Mr. Day who gave him the description in the presence of Mr. John Wilson of the Middle Temple which he shortly after delivered to the Secretary and used as he remembers only these words Sir here is the discription of the person I mentioned to you After this Description so delivered to the Secretary a Letter was written by Mr. Cooke which Mr. Secretary declared at the Committee he would take upon himself in these words following Whitehall May 31. 1680. SIR THE Right Honourable Sir Leoline Jenkins one of his Majesties Principal Secretaries of State being hastily called this day to wait upon his Majesty at Windsor hath commanded me to send you the enclosed description of a person Who if he shall happen to come from France and land at your Port Mr. Secretary saith you will do the King and Kingdom a great service if you will keep a strict Eye upon him and the company that shall arrive with him till they be all brought before Mr. Mayor or other chief Magistrate of your Town whom Mr. Secretary desires to offer the said persons the Oaths of Allegiance and Supremacy and in case of their or any of their refusal of the same to secure them and deal with them according to Law giving Mr. Secretary an account with what speed may be of all the proceedings in this affair If such a person as is here described should come and make no bones of taking the aforesaid Oaths yet in Case Mr. Mayor or other chief Magistrate before whom they are brought shall have reasonable ground to suspect that he is the man so described and that he hath one or more in his company who may be reasonably suspected to be Priests some handsome course is to be taken to detain them till Mr. Secretary can be acquainted with what is done and send such further directions as shall be thought necessary Mr. Mayors Authority with your Prudence and Zeal in this matter will I hope produce a good effect upon this Command I am Sir Your very humble Servant John Cooke Pray favour me with a Line that this comes safe to your hands Vera Copia John Pepper Upon which Norris was committed to the Common Prison as is mentioned in his Complaint All which being of more than an ordinary nature this Committe thought not fit to give any opinion but humbly referred it to the Wisdom of this House Jovis die 23. Decemb. 1680. Ordered THat leave be given to Mr. Henry Goreing a Member of the House to go into the Country Ordered That Mr. Speaker do issue out his Warrant to the Clerk of the Crown to make out a new Writ for the Electing of a Citizen to serve in this present Parliament for the City of Chichester in the room of Mr. Farrington deceased A Bill to enable John Jenner Gent. to make Leases of some part of his Estate for the payment of his Debts and for making provision for his younger children was read a second time and committed A Bill for the more easie collecting the Duty of Hearth-money was read the first time and ordered a second reading An Engrossed Bill for rectifying several errors and mistakes in certain Deeds and Settlements made upon the Marriage of Sir Charles Hoghton Baronet was read the third time and passed Ordered That Sir John Otway do carry up the said Bill to the Lords Ordered That the Thanks of this House be given to Dr. Burnett for his Sermon yesterday preached before this House and likewise for his Book relating to the History of the Reformation of the Church of England and that he be desired to print his said Sermon and that Colonel Titus do acquaint him therewith Ordered That leave be given to bring in a Bill or Bills to correct and punish Atheism Blasphemy Swearing and Debauchery and for the better observation of the Lord's Day A Message from the Lords by Sir Miles Cook and Sir John Francklin Mr. Speaker The Lords have commanded us to acquaint this House that they have agreed to a Bill sent from this House entituled An Additional Act for burying in Woollen without any Amendment A Message from the Lords by Mr. Baron Weston and Mr. Justice Charleton Mr. Speaker The Lords have commanded us to acquaint this House that at their rising this day they do intend to adjourn till the next Monday Sevenight A Bill for banishing Papists out of the King's Dominions was read the first time and Ordered a second reading to Morrow morning Resolved c. That this House is content that the Sheriffs of London and Middlesex do execute William late Viscount Stafford by
having taken the same into their consideration had agreed upon two Resolves which he read in his place and afterwards delivered them in at the Clerks Table where the same being read are as follow viz. Resolved c. That Arthur Acland Esq is not duly Elected a Burgess to serve in this present Parliament for the Borough of Barnstaple in the County of Devon Resolved c. That Rich Lee Esq is duly Elected a Burgess to serve in this present Parliament for the Borough of Barnstaple To which Resolves the House agreed Mr. Treby farther acquaints the House with several Misdemeanours committed by John Fairchild late Mayor of the said Borough at the said Election Ordered That the said John Fairchild be sent for in custody of the Serjeant at Arms attending this House to answer at the Bar of this House for the Misdemeanours by him committed at the said Election Mr. Treby reports from the Committee of Elections and Priviledges to whom the Matter of the Election for the Borough of Marlborough in the County of Wilts was referred That the Committee having taken the same into their consideration had agreed upon two Resolves which he read in his place and afterwards delivered them in at the Clerks Table where the fame being read are as follow viz. Resolved c. That Tho Lord Bruce is duly Elected a Burgess to serve in this present Parliament for the Borough of Marlborough in the County of Wilts Resolved c. That Tho Bennett Esq is duly Elected a Burgess to serve in this present Parliament for the said Borough of Marlborough To which Resolves the House agreed The Report from the Committee appointed to examine the Matters of complaint against Rich Thompson Clerk being read at the Clerks Table and the Matters being debated in the House Resolved Nemine contradicente That Richard Thompson Clerk has publickly defamed His Sacred Majesty preached Sedition villified the Reformation promoted Popery by asserting Popish Principles decrying the Popish Plot and turning the same upon the Protestants and endeavoured to subvert the Liberty and Property of the Subject and the Rights and Priviledges of Parliament and that he is a scandal and reproach to his Function Resolved c. That the said Rich Thompson be impeached upon the said Report and Resolution Ordered That a Committee be appointed to prepare the said Impeachment Ordered That the said Report and Resolution of this House thereupon be forthwith printed A Bill for exempting his Majesties Protestant Subjects dissenting from the Church of England from the Penalties of certain Laws was read a second time Resolved c. That the said Bill be committed upon the Debate of the House to the Committee to whom the Bill for Uniting of His Majesties Protestant Subjects is committed upon the Debate of the House A Bill for Banishing Papists out of the King's Dominions was read a second time Resolved c. That the Bill be committed upon the Debate of the House Then the House adjourned to Thursday the 30 of this instant December Jovis 30 die Decemb 1680. THE Clerk of the Crown being called in amended the Return for Barnstaple in the County of Devon by razing out the Name of Arthur Ackland and inferting the Name of Rich Lee Esq in the Indenture Ordered That Mr. Thistlethwayte a Member of this House have leave to go into the Countrey A Petition of William Townsend was read Ordered That it be referred to the Committee appointed to receive complaints against the Proceedings of Ecclesiastical Courts to Examine the Matter of the said Petition and to report the same with their Opinions therein to the House Sir George Downing reports from the Committee to whom the Bill for the better Encouragement of the Woollen Manufacture of England by the general wearing thereof was committed That they had agreed to several Amendments to be made to the Bill which he read in his place and afterwards delivered them in at the Clerks Table where the same being read were upon the Question severally agreed to by the House The Question being proposed that the said Bill and Amendments be Engrossed And a Debate arising in the House thereupon Resolved c. That the Debate be Adjourned to this Day Fortnight Ordered That the Grand Committee of Trade do sit on next Saturday seven-night Ordered That the Committee appointed to prepare Evidence against the Lords in the Tower do look into the Evidence against the Four Popish Lords in the Tower and do report their Opinions to the House in order to the further directions and proceedings of the House against them Ordered That an humble application be made to His Majesty from this House by such Members thereof as are of His Majesties most Honourable Privy Council to desire His Majesty to give Orders That the Information and Evidence given by Mr. Serjeant and others before His Majesty in Council in the Case of John Gavan Executed for High Treason And also all other Evidences Informations Writings Letters and Papers delivered in to the Council relating to the Popish Plot may be communicated to this House Resolved That the several Writings Papers and Proceedings relating to such Members of the late Long Parliament who received allowances out of the Monies appointed for secret Service be produced to this House Resolved Nemine contradicente That no Member of this House shall accept of any Office or place of Profit from the Crown without the Leave of this House or any promise of any such Office or place of Profit during such time as he shall continue Member of this House Resolved That all Offenders herein shall be Expelled this House Ordered That the Bill for the better Discovery of Settlements of Estates for superstitious Uses be read to Morrow morning the first Business The Resolutions of the House of Commons for the Impeachment of Sir William Scroggs Knt. Chief Justice of the Court of King's-Bench Sir Thomas Jones Knight one of the Justices of the same Court Sir Richard Weston Knight one of the Barons of the Court of Exchequer Vpon the report of the Committee of the Commons Appointed to Examine the Proceedings of the Judges in Westminster-Hall and to Report the same with their opinions therein to the House and also upon the RESOLVES and VOTES of the Commons in Parliament upon that Report relating to the Arbitrary and Illegal proceedings of the said Judges Thursday 23d of December 1680. THis Committee being informed that in Trinity-Term last the Court of Kings-Bench discharg'd the Grand Jury that served for the Hundred of Ossulston in the County of Middlesex in a very unusual manner proceeded to enquire into the same and found by the Information of Charles Vmfrevill Esq Foreman of the said Jury Edward Proby Henry Gerard and John Smith Gentlemen also of the said Jury That on the 21th of June last the Constables attending the said Jury were found defective in not presenting the Papists as they ought and thereupon were Ordered by the said Jury to make
and manage the same at his Tryal Sir Richard Corbet Reports from the Committee appointed to prepare an Impeachment against Sir William Scroggs Knight Chief Justice of the Court of Kings Bench upon the former Report of the said Committee and the Resolutions of the House thereupon That the Committee having taken the matters to them referred into Consideration had agreed upon several Articles of Impeachment against the said Sir William Scroggs which he read in his place and afterwards delivered them in at the Clerks Table where the same were read The Question being proposed that the said Articles be engrossed Debate arâ—sing in the Housethereupon Resolved That the Debate be adjourned till Wednesday morning next after ten of the Clock in a full House Martis 4. die Januarii 1680. THe Clerk of the Crown being called in amended the Return for the Borough of Stayning in the County of Sussex by taking off the Indenture wherein John Tufton Esq was returned and by rasing out the name of the said John Tufton and inserting the name of Philip Gell Esq in the other Indenture A Petition of Algernoon Sydney Esq touching the Election for the Borough of Agmondesham in the County of Bucks was Read Ordered That the Merits of the said Petitioner be heard at the Bar of this House upon Wednesday the 12th of this Instant January Sir William Temple delivered in a Message from His Majesty to this House which being Read by Mr. Speaker the House Resolved to take the said Message into Consideration upon Friday next after ten of the Clock in a a full House A Message from the Lords by Sir Timothy Baldwin and Sir Miles Cooke Mr. Speaker We are commanded to acquaint this House that the Lords have past a Vote viz. Die Martis 4 Januarii 1680. Resolved by the Lords Spiritual and Temporal in Parliament Assembled That they do declare that they are fully satisfied that there now is and for divers years last past there hath been a Horrid and Treasonable Plot and Conspiracy contrived and carried on by those of the Popish Religion in Ireland for Massacring the English and Subverting the Protestant Religion and the ancient establish'd Government of that Kingdom to which their Lordships desire the concurrence of this House They have further commanded us to acquaint this House That their Lordships have agreed to the Bill sent from this House Entituled An Act for the Rectifying several Errors and Mistakes in the Marriage Settlement of Sir Charles Hoghton Baronet without any Amendments The House according to their Order proceeded to the calling over the Members thereof Ordered That such Members of this House whose default of attendance was entred this day be sent for in custody of the Serjeant at Arms attending this House and that they be not admitted to sit in the House before they shall have paid their Fees and have the leave of this House Resolved Nemine contradicente That such Members of this House who in this time of Imminent danger do absent themselves without the leave of the House are to be reputed Deserters of their Trust and Neglectors of that Duty they owe to this House and their Country Ordered That the Committee appointed to receive Informations touching the Popish Plot in Ireland do sit at four of the Clock this afternoon in the Speaker's Chamber Mercurii 5. Die Januarii 1680. A Bill to supply a defective Conveyance made by Roger Price of the Mannor of Westbury in the County of Bucks was Read a second time Resolved That the Bill be committed Ordered That such Members who were ordered to be sent for in Custody of the Serjeant at Arms for not attending the service of this House at the Call of the same yesterday made And who were in town last night be admited to sit in the House without paying Fees Ordered That Dr. Burnet be desired to proceed with and compleat that good Work by him begun in writing and Publishing the History of the Reformation of the Church of England A Petition of Thomas Hobby Esq touching the Election for Great Marlow in the County of Bucks was Read Ordered That the Merits of this Cause be heard at the Bar of this House this day seven-night A Petition of Richard Thompson Clerk in Custody of the Serjeant at Arms attending this House was Read Ordered The said Serjeant at Arms be impowred to receive sufficient seâ—urity for the forth-coming of the said Richard Thompson to answer to the Impeachment against him A petition of Samuel Nash and others complaining against the African Company was Read Ordered That the Consideration of the said Petition be referred to the Committee to whom a former Petition of divers Merchants against the African Company was referred 'to examine the matter thereof and Report the same with their opinions therein to the House The House then according to their Order Resumed the adjourned Debate touching the Articles of Impeachment delivered in to the House against Sir Willi Scroggs Kt Chief Justice of the Court of King's Bench. Upon the Debate thereof Resolved That the said Sir William Scroggs be impeached upon the said Respective Articles Resolved That the said Articles be engrossed Ordered That the Lord Cavendish do carry up the said Articles to the Lords Ordered That the Committee appointed to examine the Proceedings of the Judges in Westminster-hall and to prepare Impeachments against Sir Francis North Chief Justice-of the Court of Common-Pleas Sir Thomas Jones one of the Justices of the Court of Kings Bench and Sir Richard Weston one of the Barons of the Court of Exchequer do bring in such Impeachments with all convenient speed Ordered That Mr. Macnamara Mr. Maurice Fitz Gerald and Mr. Murtogh Downy do attend this House tomorrow morning 10 of the Clock The House being informed that one Bowyer was upon Intimation given by the Committee appointed to prepare Evidence against the Popish Lords in Tower taken into custody Ordered That the said Bowyer be delivered into the hands of the Serjeant at Arms attending this House and that he be brought to the Bar of this House to Morrow morning at Ten of the Clock in order to his Examination Ordered That Richard Green and Woodhouse do attend to Morrow morning at Ten of the clock Ordered That the Committee appointed to receive Informations touching the Popish Plot in Ireland do sit this Afternoon in the Speakers Chamber and that the said Committee do make Report to the House of the Matters to them referred at Nine of the clock to Morrow morning Jovis 6 die Januarii 1680. A Bill for the more easie collecting the Duty of Hearth-mony was read a second time Resolved That the Bill be committed upon the Debate of the House A Bill for repealing an Act made in the 13th year of his now Majesties Reign Entitled An Act for the well governing of Corporations was Read the second time Resolved That the said Bill be committed upon the debate of the House Ordered That Mr. Speaker do suspend the issuing
to Tangier do prepare an humble Address to His Majestie upon the Resolutions and Debate of the House Resolved That whosoever shall hereafter Lend or cause to be lent by way of Advance any money upon the branches of the King's Revenue arising by Customs Excise or Hearth Money shall be adjudged to hinder the Sitting of Parliaments and shall be responsible for the same in Parliament Resolved That whosoever shall Accept or Bâ—y any Tally of Anticipation upon any part of the Kings Revenue or whosoever shall pay such Tally hereafter to be struck shall be adjudged to hinder the Sittings of Parliaments and shall be responsible therefore in Parliament Sabbati 8. die Januarii 1680. A Petition of several Clothiers and others concerned in the furnishing and quartering of the Forces lately disbanded was Read Ordered That it be referred to the Committee for receiving the Accounts of the Commissioners Appointed to disband the said Army to examine the matter of the said Petition and report the same with their Opinions therein to the House A Message from the Lords by Sir John Coell Sir Timothy Baldwir Mr. Speaker The Lords have sent us to give this House notice that their Lordships have appointed this day seven night for hearing the Cause upon the Impeachment of Mr. Seymour and that this House may reply if they think fit Ordered That Mr. Chaffin have leave to go into the Country Information being given to the House by the Serjeant at Arms that Sir John Lloyd Sir Edward Phillips Herbert Herring Samuel Verdon Miles Baspole _____ Iles and Arthur Yeomans who for divers great Misdemeaners by them committed against the Priviledge of this House were Ordered to be taken in custody of the said Serjeant do so abscond themselves that the said order cannot be put in Execution against them Ordered That an humble application be made to His Majesty from this House by such Members thereof as are of His Majesties most Honourable Privy Council desiring His Majesty to issue out His Royal Proclamation for the apprehending the said several persons in case they shall not render themselves to the Serjeant by a certain day therein to be limited Ordered That a Committee be appointed to inquire and examine what Popish Priests convict are in Newgate and other Gaols in this Kingdom and to enquire into their conditions and circumstances upon the Debate of the House Mr. Treby reports from the Committee of Elections and Priviledges to whom the matter touching the Election for the Borough of Queen-borough in the County of Kent was referred That the Committee having taken the same into their consideration had agreed upon two Resolves which he read in his place and afterwards delivered them in at the Clerks Table where the same being read are as follow viz. Resolved That James Herbert Esq is not duly Elected a Burgess to serve in this present Parliament for the Borough of Queenborough in the County of Kent Resolved That William Glanvill Esq is duly Elected a Burgess to serve in this present Parliament for the said Borough of Queenborough To which Resolves the House agreed The Clerk of the Crown being called in amended the Return for the said Borough by rasing out the name of the said James Herbert and inferting the name of the said William Glanvill in the Indenture Ordered That Mr. Dowly a Member of this House have leave to go into the Country for recovery of his health Ordered That the Chairman of the Committee of Grievances to whom the Petition of Mr. Baldwin Leighton was referred do make Report thereof to the House on Monday morning next Ordered That the matter in question relating to Arthur Earl of Anglesey and Sir John Davis which was appointed for this day be adjourned to Monday morning next ten of the clock Ordered That a Committee be appointed to inspect the Journals of this House and of the House of Lords and Presidents to justifie and maintain that the Lords ought to commit Persons to safe custody when Impeach'd for High Treason by the Commons in Parliament and to make Report thereof to the House Lunae 10 Die Januarii 1680. Resolved That whosoever advised His Majestie to Prorogue this Parliament to any other Purpose than in Order to the passing of a Bill for the Exclusion of James Duke of York is a betrayer of the King the Protestant Religion and of the Kingdom of England a promoter of the French Interest and a Pensioner to France Resolved That the thanks of this House be given to the City of London for their manifest Loyalty to the King their Care Charge and Vigilancy for the Preservation of His Majesties Person and of the Protestant Religion Ordered That the members that serve for the City of London do accordingly give them the thanks of this House Resolved That it is the opinion of this House that the City of London was burnt in the year 1666 by the Papists designing thereby to introduce Aribitary Power and Popery into this Kingdom Resolved That the Commissioners of the Customs other Officers of the Custom-House have wilfully broken the Law prohibiting the Importation of French Wines and other Commodities And that if they shall hereafter Wilfully or Negligently break that Law they shall be questioned therefore in Parliament Resolved That it is the opinion of this House That James Duke of Monmouth hath been Removed from his Offices and Commands by the Influence of the Duke of York Ordered That an humble Application be made to His Majesty from this House by such members thereof as are of His Majesties most Honourable Privy Council to desire his Majesty to restore the said James Duke of Monmouth to his said Offices and Commands Resolved That it is the opinion of this House that the prosecution of Protestant Dissenters upon the Penal Laws is at this time Grievous to the Subject a weakning of the Protestant Interest an Encouragement to Popery and Dangerous to the Peace of the Kingdom A Message from the King by Sir Edward Cartaret Usher of the Black Rod. Mr. Speaker The King commands this Honourable House to attend Him immediately in the House of Peers and accordingly Mr. Speaker went up with the House to attend His Majesty who was pleased to Prorogue this present Parliament to next Thursday seven-night being the 20th day of this instant January 1680. His Majesty gave His Royal assent to the Act Prohibiting the Importation of Cattle from Ireland And to the Act For Supplying the late Act for Burying in Woollen And to an Act To Rectifie Errors in Sir Charles Houghton's Settlement
accordingly Ordered That Sir Thomas Exton a Member of this House have leave to repair into the Country A Petition of George Bell in Custody of the Serjeant at Arms attending this House was read Ordered That the said George Bell be brought to the Bar and do receive the censure of the House upon his knees from Mr. Speaker and be then discharged paying his Fees which was done accordingly A Bill for supplying the Laws made against Bankrupts was read the first time A Message from His Majesty by Sr. Edward Cartarett Usher of the Black Rod. Mr. Speaker The King commands this Honourable House to attend him immediatly in the House of Peers and accordingly Mr. Speaker with the House went up to attend His Majestie The House being returned Mr. Speaker acquainted the House with the Effect of His Majesties Speech Ordered That Sir Robert Peyton being in Custody of the Serjeant at Arms attending this House be brought to the Bar and do receive the Censure of this House upon his knees from Mr. Speaker and that he be then discharged from further Confinement paying his Fees which was accordingly done Resolved That this House will on Saturday morning next take into consideration His Majesties Gracious Speech this day made to both Houses of Parliament The House then according to their Order Resolved into a Committee of the whole House to consider of ways and means to secure this Kingdom against Popery and Arbitrary Power Mr. Speaker left the Chair Mr. Powle took the Chair of the Committee Mr. Speaker resumed the Chair Mr. Powle acquaints the House that the Committee receiving Intimation that there was a Message at the door from the Lords had ordered him to leave the Chair and moved from the said Committee that the House would be pleased as soon as such Message should be received to resolve again into a Committee of the whole House A Message from the Lords by Sr. John Hoskins and Sr. Addam Dateley Mr. Speaker The Lords have commanded us to acquaint this House that they have agreed to the Bill sent from this House entituled An-Act for the repeal of a Statute made in the 35th Tear of the Reign of Queen Elizabeth with some Amendments to which they desire the concurrence of this House The House again resolved Itself into a Committee of the whole House Mr. Speaker left the Chair Mr. Powle took the Chair of the Committee Mr. Speaker resumed the Chair Mr. Powle reports from the Committee of the whole House That the Committee having taken the matters to them referred into consideration had agreed upon certain Resolves which he read in his place and afterwards delivered them in at the Clerks Table where the same being read are as follows viz. Resolved That it is the opinion of this Committee that one means for the suppressing Popery is that the House be moved that a Bill be brought in to banish immediately all the considerable Papists out of the Kings Dominions Resolved That it is the opinion of this Committee that as long as the Papists have any hopes of the Duke of York's succeeding the King in the Kingdoms of England and Ireland and the Dominions thereunto belonging the King's person the Protestant Religion and the lives liberties and properties of all his Majesties Protestant Subjects are in apparent danger òf being destroyed Resolved That it is the opinion of this Committee that the House be moved that a Bill be brought in for an association of all His Majesties Protest an t Subjects for the safety of His Majesties Person the Defence of the Protestant Religion and the preservation of His Majesties Protestant Subjects against all Invasions and Oppositions whatsoever and for the preventing the Duke of York or any Papist from succeeding to the Crown The first of the said Resolves being read a second time And a Motion being made for the adding the words of England aftor the word Papists in the said Resolve which being agreed to by the House and the same being inserted at the Clerks Table Resolved Nemine contradicente That this House doth agree with the Committee that one means for the suppressing Popery is that a Bill be brought in to banish immediatly all the considerable Papists of England out of the Kings Dominions The second of the said Resolves being read a second time Resolved Nemine Contradicente That this House doth agree with the Committee that so long as the Papists have any hopes of the Duke of York's succeeding the King in the Kingdoms of England and Ireland and the Dominions thereunto belonging the King's Person the Protestant Religion and the lives liberties and properties of all His Majesties Protestant Subjects are in apparent danger of being destroyed The Third of the said Resolves being read a second Time Resolved Nemine contradicente That this House doth agree with the Committee that a Bill be brought in for an association of all His Majesties Protestant Subjects for the safety of His Majesties Person the Desence of the Protestant Religion and the preservation of His Majesties Protestant Subjects against all Invasions and Oppositions whatsoever and for preventing the Duke of York or any Papist from succeeding to the Crown Ordered That a Committee be appointed to prepare and bring in a Bill pursuant to the first of the said Resolves Mr. Powle moving the House from the Committee of the whole House that the House would be pleased again to resolve it self into a Committee of the whole House to Morrow morning at Ten of the Clock upon the Matter of this days Debate Resolved That this House will to Morrow morning at Ten of the Clock resolve it self into a Committee of the who'e House further to consider of ways and means to secure the Kingdom against Popery and Arbitrary Power Ordered That Mr. Speaker do issue out his Warrant to the Clerk of the Crown to make out a new Writ for the Election of a Knight to serve in this present Parliament for the County of Middlesex in the room of Sir Robert Peyton expell'd this House Jovis 16. die Decemb. 1680. MArtin May and Cornelius Steler did this day take the Oaths of Allegiance and Supremacy at the Clerks Table in order to their Naturalization Ordered That Mr. Samuel Sandys the younger and Mr. Stokes have leave to go into the Country A Bill for rectifying several Errors and Mistakes in certain Deeds of settlement made upon the marriage of Sir Charles Hoghton Baronet with Mary the daughter of John Lord Viscount Massareen was read a second time A Petition of divers Inhabitants in the County of Surrey complaining of the proceedings in an Ecclesiasticall Court against them was read Ordered That the consideration of this petition be referred to a Committee The same Committee is impowered to send for Persons Papers and Records and to receive all other Complaints against the proceedings of Ecclesiastical Courts and to bring in a Bill or Bills for regulating the proceedings of such Courts A Petition of Joshua Brook
receive security for the forth coming of the said Mr. Seymour to answer to the Impeachment of this House Sir William Poultney reports from the Committee appointed to put the Articles against Mr. Seymour into the form of an Impeachment that the said Committee had agreed upon a form which he read in his place and afterwards delivered the same in at the Clerks Table A Bill for restraining Papists from coming or residing within the Cities of London and Westminster or within Twenty Miles distant from the same And from wearing and having Arms was read a second Time Resolved That the Bill be committed upon the Debate of the House The House then according to the Order for the day resolved into a Committee of the whole House Mr. Speaker left the Chair Mr. Powle took the Chair of the Committee Mr. Speaker resumed the Chair Mr. Powle reports from the Committee of the whole House that the Committee having taken the Matters to them referred into consideration had agreed upon several Resolves which he read in his place and afterwards delivered them in at the Clerks Table where the same being read are as followeth viz. Resolved That it is the Opinion of this Committee that the House be moved that a Bill be brought in for the more effectual securing of the Meeting and Sitting of frequent Parliaments Resolved That it is the Opinion of this Committee that the House be moved that a Bill be brought in that the Judges may hold their Places and Salaries quamdiu se bene gesserint Resolved That it is the Opinion of this Committee as one means to prevent Arbitrary power that the House be moved that a Bill be brought in against illegal exaction of Money upon the people and to make it High Treason The first of the said Resolves being Read Resolved That this House doth agree with the Committee that a Bill be brought in for the more effectual securing of the Meeting and Sitting of the frequent Parliaments as one means to prevent Arbitrary power The second of the said Resolves being Read Resolved That this House doth agree with the Committee that a Bill be brought in that the Judges hereafter to be made and appointed may hold their Places and Salaries quamdiu se bene gesserint and also to prevent the Arbitrary proceedings of the Judges The last of the said Resolves being Read Resolved That this House doth agree with the Committee that a Bill be brought in against illegal exaction of Money upon the People and to make it high Treason Ordered That a Committee be appointed to prepare and bring in a Bill or Bills pursuant to the said several Resolves and it is referred to a Committee Sabbati 18. die Decemb. 1680. Ordered THat Sir Ralph Carr a Member of this House who serves for the County of Montgomery and Mr. Edward Vaughan in this House have leave to go into the Country A Bill to supply a Defective conveyance made by Mr. Roger Price of the Mannor of Westbury in the County of Bucks was read the first time Resolved That this Bill be read a second time An Ingrossed Bill for taking away the Court holden before the President and Council in the Marches of Wales was read a third time Resolved That the Bill do pass and that the Title be An Act for taking away of the Court holden before the President and Council in the Marches of Wales Ordered That Sir Trevor Williams do carry up the said Bill to the Lords for their Concurrence the same was carried up accordingly Mr. Hyde acquaints the House That His Majesty had directed him to communicate to the House a Letter from one Robards to Mr. Dugdale touching William Pickering which Letter he delivered in at the Clerks Table and the same being there read Ordered That the said Letter together with the Letter lately sent from Doctor Lamphire to Mr. Secretary Jenkins be delivered by the Clerk of this House to Mr. Attorney General in order to the prosecution of the said Pickering at Law The House then according to their Order entred into the Consideration of His Majesties Gracious Speech made to both Houses of Parliament on Wednesday last Resolved That a Committee be appointed to prepare an humble Address to His Majesty upon the Debate of the House in answer to His Majesties Speech and a Committee was named to draw up and prepare the same accordingly and they are to meet at three of the Clock this Afternoon in the Speaker's Chamber Lunae 20th die Decemb. 1680. A Bill for Sale of the Estate of Joseph Cowden deceased for the payment of his Debts and raising of Portions for his Daughters was read the first time Resolved That the Bill be Read a second time Ordered That Samuel Cheaffin be Summoned to answer at the Bar of this House for a Breach of priviledge by him committed against Sir John Guise a member of this House Sir George Downing Reports from the Committee to whom the Bill for Prohibiting the Importation of Cattle from Scotland was committed that the Committee haveing taken the same into their consideration had Agreed to some Amendments to the same to which Amendments the House Agreed Ordered That the Bill with these Amendments be Ingrossed Ordered That leave be given to bring in a Bill to prevent Scotch Pedlars from coming in to this Kingdom A Bill to Prohibit the Importation of foreign Guns c. was Read the first time Resolved c. That the Bill be Read a second time A Bill for the Sale of the Mannor of Billingford and Lands in the County of Norfolk for payment of the Debts of Sir Edward Chisenhale was Read a second time and Committed Mr. Lionell Playter is to have notice and time given him to attend the Committee and the Committee is to inspect the several settlements and Mortages mentioned in the Bill and they are impowred to send for persons papers and Records Ordered That a Committee be appointed to receive and examine the accounts of the commissioners appointed by a late Act of Parliament to pay off and Disband the Forces Raised since the 29th of September 1677. And make Report thereof to the House A Bill for the better payment of an Annuity or Rent-Charge of 130 l per Annum out of the Mannor of Bexhill in the County of Sussex to the use of the poor of several Parishes in the County of Surrey was Read a second time and was Committed A Petition of Henry Aulnutt Esq was Read Ordered That the said Mr. Aulnutt be brought to the Bar and do receive the Censure of the House upon his Knees from Mr. Speaker and be then discharged paying his Fees which was accordingly done A Petition of Thomas Herbert Esq was Read Ordered That the said Mr. Herbert be brought to the Bar and do receive the censure of this House upon his Knees from Mr. Speaker and be then discharged paying his Fees which was done accordingly Mr. Treby Reports from the Committee of Elections and
severing his Head from his Body only A Message from the Lords by Sir Miles Cook and Sir John Francklin Mr. Speaker The Lords have commanded us to present this House with a Coppy of Mr. Seymour's Answer to the Articles of Impeachment exhibited against him Resolved c. That it is the Opinion of this House that Mr. Joseph Broom ought to be restored to 〈◊〉 the Offices and Places which were taken from him by occasion of a Judgment given against him in the Court of King's Bench in Trinity Term 29. Caroli Secundi upon an Information for publishing an unlicensed Book called The Long Parliament dissolved Ordered That the Bill for exempting His Majesties Protestant Subjects dissenting from the Church of England from the Penalties of certain Laws be read a second time to Morrow morning The first business Colonel Birch reports from the Committee to whom the Examination of the Complaint against Richard Thompson Clerk was referred That the Committee having taken the same into their consideration had directed him to make a special Report thereof to the House which he read in his place and afterwards delivered the same in at the Clerks Table Ordered That the said Report be read at the Table to Morrow morning Ordered That the Reports from the Committee of Elections and Priviledges touching the Election of St. Edmnndsbury in the County of Suffolk and Marleborough in the County of Wilts be made to Morrow morning Ordered That Mr. Sydney's Petition be read to Morrow morning Number 16. HIS MAJESTIES Most GRACIOUS Speech to both HOUSES of PARLIAMENT On Wednesday the 15th of December 1680. My Lords and Gentlemen AT the opening of this Parliament I did acquaint You with the Alliances I had made with Spain and Holland as the best measures that could be taken for the safety of England and the Repose of Christendom But I told you withall That if Our Friendship became unsafe to trust to it would not be wondred at if Our Neighbours should begin to take new Resolutions and perhaps such as might be fatal to Vs I must now tell you That Our Allies cannot but see how little has been done sine this Meeting to incourage their dependance upon Vs And I find by them that unless We can be so united at home as to make Our Alliance valuable to them it will not be possible to hinder them from seeking some other Refuge and making such new Friendships as will not be consistent with Our safety Consider that a neglect of this opertunity is never to be repaired I did likewise lay the matter plainly before you touching the Estate condition of Tangier I must now tell you again That if that place be thought worth the keeping you must take such consideration of it that it may be speedily suppli'd it being impossible for Me to preserve it at an Expence so far above My power I did promise you to the fullest satisfaction your hearts could wish for the Security of the Protestant Religion and to concur with you in any Remedies which might consist with preserving the Succession of the Crown in its Due and Legal course of Descent I do again with the same Reservations renew the same Promise to you And being thus ready on my part to do all that can reasonably be expected from Me I should be glad to know from you as soon as may be how far I shall be assisted by you and what it is you desire from Me. The Humble Address of the House of Commons Presented to his Majesty upon Tuesday the 21 day of December 1680. in Answer to his Majesties Gracious SPEECH to both Houses of Parliament Upon the 15th day of the same December May it please Your most Excellent Majesty WE Your Majesties most Dutiful and Loyal Subjects the Commons in this present Parliament Assembled have taken into our serious Consideration Your Majesties Gracious Speech to both Your Houses of Parliament on the 15th of this instant December and do with all the grateful Sense of Faithful Subjects and sincere Protestants acknowledge Your Majesties great Goodness to us in renewing the Assurances You have been pleased to give us of Your readiness to concur with us in any means for the Security of the Protestant Religion and Your Gracious Invitation of us to make our desires known to Your Majesty But with grief of Heart we cannot but observe that to these Princely Offers Your Majesty has been Advised by what secret Enemies to Your Majesty and Your People we know not to annex a Reservation which if insisted on in the instance to which alone it is applicable will render all Your Majesties other Gracious Inclinations of no effect or advantage to us Your Majesty is pleased thus to limit Your promise of concurrence in the Remedies which shall be proposed that they may consist with preserving the Succession of the Crown in its due and legal course of Descent And we do Humbly inform Your Majesty that no Interruption of that Descent has been endeavoured by us except onely the Descent upon the Person of the Duke of York who by the wicked Instruments of the Church of Rome has been manifestly perverted to their Religion And we do Humbly represent to Your Majesty as the Issue of our most deliberate Thoughts and Consultations that for the Papists to have their hopes continued that a Prince of that Religion shall succeed in the Throne of these Kingdoms is utterly inconsistent with the Safety of Your Majesties Person the Preservation of the Protestant Religion and the Prosperity Peace and Welfare of Your Protestant Subjects That Your Majesties Sacred Life is in continual danger under the prospect of a Popish Successor is evident not onely from the pinciples of those devoted to the Church of Rome which allow that an Heretical Prince and such they term all Protestant Princes Excommunicated and Deposed by the Pope may be destroyed and murther'd but also from the Testimonies given in the prosecution of the Horrid Popish Plot against divers Traitors Attainted for designing to put those accursed principles into practice against Your Majesty From the expectation of this Succession has the number of Papists in Your Majesties Dominions so much encreased within these few years and so many been prevailed with to desert the true Protestant Religion that they might be prepared for the Favours of a Popist-Prince assoon as he should come to the possession of the Crown And while the same Expectation lasts many more will be in the same danger of being perverted This it is that has hardened the Papists of this Kingdom animated and confederated by their Priests and Jesuits to make a Common purse provide Arms make application to Forreign Princes and sollicite their Aid for imposing Popery upon us And all this even during your Majesty's Reign and while your Majesty's Government and the Laws were our protection It is Your Majestie 's Glory and true Interest to be the Head and Protector of all Protestants as well abroad as
further Presentments of them on the 26th following on which Day the Jury met for that purpose when several Peers of this Realm and other Persons of Honour and Quality brought them a Bill against James Duke of York for not coming to Church But some Exceptions being taken to that Bill in that it did not set forth the said Duke to be a Papist some of the Jury attended the said persons of Quality to receive satisfaction therein In the mean time and about an Hour after they had received the said Bill some of the Jury attended the Court of Kings-Bench with a Petition which they desired the Court to present in their Name unto His Majestie for the Sitting of this Parliament Upon which the Lord Chief Justice Scroggs raised many Scruples and on pretence that they were not all in Courâ— tho twenty of the Jury had subscribed the Petition sent for them saying he would dispatch them presently The Jury being come and their Names called over they renewed their desire that the Courâ— would present their petition But the Chief Justice asked if they had any Bills they answered They had but the Clerks were drawing theâ— into Form Upon which the Chief Justice said They would not makâ— two Works of one Business the Petition being Read he said Thiâ— was no Article of their Charge nor was there any Act of Parliamen that required the Court to deliver the Grand Juries Petitions Thaâ— there was a a Proclamation about them And that it was not reasonable the Court should be obliged to run on their Errands And he thoughâ— it much that they should come with a Petition to alter the Kingâ— Mind declared in the News Book The Jury said They did it not tâ— Impose on the Court but as other Juries had done with all Submission they desired it But the Court refused bidding the Cryer return them their Petitions And Mr. Justice Jones told them they haâ— medled with matters of State not given them in Charge but presenâ—ed no Bills of the Matters given in Charge They answered as before they had many before them that would be ready in due time Notwithstanding which the said Justice Jones told them They were discharged from further Service But Philip Ward the Clerk that attended the said Jury cryed out No No they have many Bills before them for which the Court understanding as it seems to this Committee a secret reason which the Clerk did not reproved him Asking if he or they were to give the Rule there The Cryer then told the Court they would not receive their Petition the Chief Justice bid him let it alone so it was left there and the Jury returned to the Court-house and there found several Constables with presentments of Papists and other offenders as the Jury had directed them on the 21th before but could not now receive the said Presentments being discharged Whereby much business was obstructed though none of the said Informants ever knew the said Jury discharged before the last Day of the Term which was not till Four days after And it further appeareth to the Committee by the evidences of Samuel Astrey Jasper Waterhouse and Philip Ward Clerks that have long served in the said Court That they were much surprized at the said discharging of the Jury in that it was never done in their Memory before and the rather because the said Waterhouse as Secondary constantly erters on that Grand Juries paper that the last day of the Term is given them to return their Verdict on as the last day but one is given to the other Two Grand Juries of that County which entry is as followeth Trinit 32. Car. 2d Juratores habent diem ad Veredictum suum redderdum usque Middles Ossulston Hundred diem Mercurij proxime post tres Septimanas sancte Trinitatis Being the last day of the Term and so in all the other Terms the last day is given which makes it appear to this Committee That they were not in truth Discharged for not having their Presentments ready since the Court had given them a longer day but onely to obstruct their further Proceedings And it appeareth by the Evidence aforesaid to this Committee That the four Judges of that Court were present at the Discharging of the said Jury and it did not appear that any of them did Dissent therein upon Consideration whereof the Committee came to this Resolution Resolved That it is the opinion of this Committee that the Discharging of the Grand Jury of the Hundred of Ossulston in the County of Middlesex by the Court of Kings Bench in Trinity Term last before the last day of the Term and before they had finished their Presentments was Illegal Arbitrary and an high Misdemeanour This Committee proceeded also to inquire into a Rule of the Court of Kings-Bench lately made against the publishing a Book called The Weekly Pacquet of Advice from Rome or The History of Popery and Samuel Astrey Gent. examined thereupon inform'd this Committee that the Author of the said Book Henry Car had been informed against for the same and had pleaded to the Information but before it was Tryed a Rule was made on a motion as he supposeth against the said Book All the Judges of that Court as he remembers being present and none dissenting The Copy of which Rule he gave in to this Committee and is as followeth Dies Mercurij proxime post tres Septimanas sancte Trinitatis Anno 32 Car. 2d Regis Ordinatum est quod liber intitulat The Weekly Pacquet of Advice from Rome or The History of Popery non ulterius Imprimatur vel publicetur per aliquam Personam quam cunque Per. Cur. And this Committee admiring that Protestant Judges should take offence against a Book whose chief design was to expose the Cheats and Foppery of Popery enquired further into it and found by the Evidence of Jane Curtis that the said Book had been Licens'd for several Months that her Husband paid for the Coppy and enter'd it in the Hall-Book of the Company But for all this she could not prevail by these Reasons with the Lord Chief Justice Scroggs to permit it any longer who said 'T was a Scandalous Libel and against the King's Proclamation and he would ruine her if ever she printed it any more And soon after she was served with the said Rule as the Author and other Printers were and by the Author's Evidence it appears That he was taken and brought before the said Chief Justice by his Warrant above a year since upon his owning he writ part of that Book the Chief Justice called him Rogue and other ill names saying he would fill all the Goals in England with such Rogues and pile them up as men do Faggots and so Committed him to prison refusing sufficient Bayl and saying he would Goal him to put him to Charges and his Lordship observed his word punctually therin forcing him to his Habeas Corpus and then taking the same