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
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 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
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
by such Members of this House as are of His Majesties most Honourable Privy Council humbly to desire His Majesty That all Papers Letters Examinations Writings and other Evidences relating to the Horrid Popish Plot which have been delivered in to the Clerks of the Council or the Secretaries of State since the Dissolution of the last Parliament may be transmitted to this House Ordered That Mr. Serjeant Maynard Mr. George Pelham and Mr. Paul Foley be added to the Committee appointed to prepare Evidence against the Lords in the Tower 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 give Orders for the issuing out a Sum of money for defraying the Charges of Summoning the Witnesses and other Expences incident to the Prosecution and Tryals of the Lords in the Tower Ordered That such Moneys as His Majesty shall be pleased to direct to be issued for the Uses aforesaid be deposited in the hands of Mr. Charles Clare Sabbati 13 die Novembris 1680. A Petition of Richard Whitehead Esq touching the Election for the Borough of Linnington in the County of Southampton was Read Ordered That the said Petition be Refered to the Committee of Elections and Priviledges to Examine the Matter thereof and to Report the same with their Opinions therein to the House Richard Janeway in Custody of the Serjeant at Arms being called in acquainted the House That the Pamphlet by him published for which he stands Commited was Printed by _____ Everingham _____ Bradwell and Thomas James Samuel Lee and Thomas Simons Stationers and that the Copy by which the same was Printed was delivered by Mr. Andrew Tarington Ordered That the said Mr. Yarington Mr. James Mr. Everingham Mr. Bradwell Mr. Simons and Mr. Lee be summoned to Attend at the Bar of this House on Munday Morning next at ten of the Clock to Answer the said Charge to the House concerning the Printing and publishing of the said phamphlet Mr. Secretary Jenkins acquaints the House That such Members thereof as are of His Majesties most Honourable Privy Council had attended His Maiesty pursuant to Five several Orders of Address from this House to His Majesty and that His Majesties Answer to the several Addresses was to this effect That as to the First Address whereby the House desired to know His Majesties Pleasure when this House should attend him His Majesty was pleased to Appoint three of the clock this afternoon for the House to attend Him in the Banqueting-House That as to the second Address whereby this House did make humble Application to His Majesty for the pardon of Mr. Jenison His Majesty was pleased to Answer That He will Grant Him a pardon for all Treasons misprisions of Treason Felonies and Outlawries for Felonies That as to the third Address relating to money to defray the Incident charges in the profecution of the Lords in the Tower His Majesty was pleased to Answer That he had Directed 100 l. to be Issued out to such persons as is or shall be Appointed by this House for that purpose That as to the Fourth Address Desirng that all such papers Letters Examinations Writings and other Evidences relating to the Popish plot as were delivered in to the Clerks of the Council since the Dissolution of the last Parliament might be Transmitted to this House his Majesty was pleased to return this answer That upon the first sitting of the Committee of Examinations of the House of Lords upon the Plot his Majesty had Directed That all such papers Letters Examinations Writings and other Evidences relating to the Plot as were delivered in to the Clerks of the Council since the Dissolution of the last Parliament to be Transmited to the said Committee of Lords where they now still remain That as to the last Address desiring a pardon for Edmond Murphy Thomas Sampson John Macnamarra Hobart Bourke John Fiz-Gearld and Eustace Coning his Majesty was pleased to Answer That he would Grant a pardon to all the said several persons for all Treasons misprisions of Treason Felonies and Outlawries for Felonies Ordered That a Committee be appointed to Inspect the Laws concerning paving and Repairing of the Streets and Regulating of Hackney Coaches and to inquire into the proceedings of the Two last Parliaments relating to Hackney Coaches and to report the same with their Opinions therein to the House to prepare and bring in a Bill for Regulating of hackney coaches repairing paving and cleansing of streets and opening of passages in and about the Cities of London and Westminster Sir Robert Yeamans being according to the Order Yesterday made brought to the Bar of this House did acknowledge the Offence by him committed and humbly begg'd the pardon of the House And being withdrawn Ordered That Sir Robert Yeamans be again brought to the Bar of this House and do receive the Censure of this House upon his knees from Mr. Speaker and be then discharged from the Custody of the Serjeant at Arms paying his Fees And Sir Robert Yeamans being accordingly brought to the Bar and there kneeling Mr. Speaker after having given him the Censure of the House acquainted him that he was discharg'd paying his Fees Mr. Norris being called in gave an Information in Writing relating to the Popish plot which was Read at the Clerks Table Ordered That a Committee be appointed to receive Informations concerning the Popish plot and to inquire into the same and to Report the same to the House as often as they shall see occasion And the Committee is Impowered to send for persons papers and Records And that the Information this day given at the Bar by Mr. Norris be referred to the consideration of the said Committee who are to Examine the matter thereof and to report the same with their Opinions there in to the House A Message from the Lords by Sir Timothy Baldwyn Sir John Hoskins Mr. Speaker THe Lords have commanded us to acquaint you that they have agreed to the Bill sent from this House Intituled An Act Prohibiting the Importation of Cattel from Ireland without any Amendment Ordered That the report made and delivered Yesterday by Sir Francis Winnington be read to the house on Munday morning next at Nine of the clock Mr. Trenchard Reports from the Committee to whom the Petition of divers Citizens of London against Sir George Jeffereys Recorder of the said City was referred That the said Committee had taken the same into consideration and had heard the Evidence of the petitioners and of the said Sir George Jeffereys and had agreed upon a Vote to be reported to the House which he read in his place and afterwards delivered the same in at the Clerks Table and is as followeth Resolved That this Committee is of Opinion That by the Evidence given to this Committee it does appear that Sir George Jeffereys Recorder of the City of London by traducing and obstructing Petitioning
bring in a Bill for continuing of two Acts One to prevent the Planting of Tobacco in England and Regulating the Plantation Trade The Other for Exporting of Beer Ale and Mum. A Bill to the same purpose being presented to the House was Read the First time Resolved That the Bill be Read a Second time Resolved That a Committee be appointed to prepare a further Address to His Majesty upon the Debate of the House humbly to desire His Majesty to Pardon and Remit the Fine set upon Benjamin Harris for which he continues in Prison Mr. Sachaverel Reports from the Committee to whom it was referred to prepare and bring in a Bill for the Repeal of One Act made in the 35th Year of the Reign of Queen Elizabeth ch 1. A Bill agreed upon by the Committee which he delivered in at the Clerks Table The Bill being Read the First time Resolved That the Bill be Read a Second time to Morrow morning Sir Francis Russel Reports from the Committee Appointed to draw up an humble Address to his Majesty to desire his Majesty to appoint a day for a Solemn Fast and Humiliation to be kept throughout the Kingdom An Address agreed on 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 Resolved That the Lords Concurrence be desired to the said Address And that Sir Francis Russed do attend the Lords with the same and desire their concurrence A Petition of Ann Bedlow Widdow and Relict of Captain William Bedlow Deceased was Read Resolved 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 take into His consideration the condition of the said Mrs. Bedlow and to grant her some Allowance for her Subsistence Sir Francis Russel acquaints the House That in pursuance of the Order of the House he had attend the Lords with the Address and that their Lordships returned Answer That they had taken the said Address into their Consideration and had agreed to it according to the desire of this House Ordered That Mr. Attorney General be desired to attend this House to Morrow Morning to give the House an Account touching the Proclamation Stiled A Proclamation against Tumultuous Petitioning Several Persons that served upon the Grand Jury for the County of Middlesex in Trinity Term last being called in gave an Account to the House of the manner of the Proceedings of the Court of Kings-Bench in Discharging the said Grand Jury Several Persons being called in gave an Account at the Bar of the House touching the charge given by Mr. Baron Weston at the last Summer Asslizes held at Kingston upon Thames for the County of Surrey and a Debate arising in the House upon the whole matter Resolved Nemine Contradicente That the Discharging of a Grand Jury by any Judge before the end of the Term Assizes or Sessions whilst matters are under their consideration and not presented is Arbitrary Illegal Destructive to Publick Justice a manifest Violation of his Oath and is a means to Subvert the Fundamental Laws of this Kingdom Resolved Nemine Contradicente That a Committee be appointed to Examine the Proceedings of the Judges in Westminster-Hall and Report the same with their Opinions therein to this House Sir Edward Deering Acquaints the House That His Majesty having referred the Condition and Circumstances of the several Witnesses relating to the Popish Plot in Ireland to the consideration of the Lords Commissioners of the Treasury and that the Commissioners were not as yet informed of the Names Number and Conditions of the said several Persons desired the Direction of the House therein Ordered That Mr. Hethrington do Attend Mr. Speaker and do communicate to him the Names and Condition of the said Witnesses The Address of the Commons in Parliament to His Majesty to Remove Sir George Geffreys Out of all Publick Offices WE your Majesties most Dutiful and Loyal Subjects the Commons in Parliament Assembled having received a Complaint against Sir George Jeflreys Knight your Majesties Chief Justice of Chester and heard the Evidence concerning the same and also what he did alledge and prove in his Defence And being thereupon fully satisfied that the said Sir George Jeffreys well knowing that many of your Loyal Protestant Subjects and particularly those of your Great and Famous City of London out of Zeal for the Preservation of the Protestant Religion your Majesties Royal Person and Government and in hopes to bring the Popish Conspirators to speedy Justice were about to Petition to your Majesty in an Humble Dutiful and Legal way for the sitting of this Parliament the said Sir George Jeffreys not regarding his Duty to your Majesty or the welfare of your People did on purpose to serve his own private Ends and to create a Misunderstanding between your Majesty and your Good Subjects though disguised with pretence of service to your Majesty maliciously declared such petitioning sometimes to be Tumultuous Seditious and Illegal and at other times did presume publickly to insinuate and assert as if your Majesty would deprive your Citizens of London of their Charters and divers other Priviledges Immunities and Advantages and also of your Royal Favour in case they should so petition and also did publickly declare that in case they should so petition there should not be any Meeting or Sitting of Parliament thereby traducing your Majesty as if you would not pursue your Gracious Intentions the rather because they were grateful to your good Subjects do in most humble manner beseech your Majesty to remove the said Sir George Jeffreys out of the said Place of Chief Justice of Chester and out of all other Publick Offices and Employments under your Majesty His Majesty by Mr. Secretary Jenkins was pleased to return Answer to this Address That he would consider of it Mercurii 24. die Novemb. 1680. Ordered THat George Bell of Carlisle in the County of Cumberland Attorney at Law be sent for in Custody of the Serjeant at Arms attending this House to answer at the Bar of the House for a breach of Priviledge by him committed against Sir Richard Grahme a Member of this House Ordered That Arthur Yeomans of Cardisse in the County of Glamorgan be sent for in Custody of the Serjeant at Arms attending this House to answer at the Bar of this House for a Notorious Breach of Priviledge by him committed against this House Ordered That William Jordan of Gloucester be sent for in Custody of the Serjeant at Arms to answer at the Bar of this House for a Notorious Breach of Priviledge by him Committed against this House Ordered That John Laws be sent for in Custody of the Serjeant at Arms to answer at the Bar for a Breach of Priviledge by him Committed against this House Ordered That Mr. Henry Alnett be sent for in Custody of the
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-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
without the presence of any Store-keeper and did afterwards sell the same pretending the same to be only Muscarado Sugars and did account with His Majesty for the same as such Whereas in Truth the said Ship was Laden with Cochineal and Indico Rich Merchandises of a very great Value Veneris 26 Nov. 1680. Resolved THat there is sufficient Matter in these Articles for Impeachment of Edward Seymour Esq a Member of this House And that he be Impeached upon these Articles Sabbati 27 die Novemb. 1680. PEter Elers and John Bode did this day take the Oaths of Allegiance and Supremacy at the Clerks Table in order to their Naturalization A Bill for the taking away of the Court holden before the President and Council in the Marches of Wales was read the first time Resolved That the Bill be read a Second time on Wednesday Morning next at Ten of the Clock The Clerk of the Crown being called in amended the Return for Westbury in the County of Wilts by Razing out the Names of Richard Lewis and Henry Bertie Esquires and inserting the Names of Edward Norton and William Trenchard Esquires instead thereof Mr. Treby Reports from the Committee of Elections and Priviledges That the Committee having taken into their Consideration the Matter touching the Election for the Burrough of Wells had agreed upon two Resolves to be Reported to the House which he read in his Place afterwards delivered the same in at the Clerks Table where the same being read are as follows Resolved That Edward Berkley Esq is not duly Elected a Burgess to serve in this present Parliament for the Burrough of Wells in the County of Somerset Resolved That John Hall Esq is duly Elected a Burgess to serve in this present Parliament for the said Burrough of Wells The First Resolve being Read a second time Resolved That this House doth agree with the Committee that Edward Berkley Esq is not duly Elected a Burgess to serve in this present Parliament for the Burrough of Wells in the County of Somerset The second Resolve being Read a second time Resolved That this House doth agree with the Committee That John Hall Esq is duly Elected a Burgess to serve in this present Parliament for the said Burrough of Wells The Clerk of the Crown being called in amended the Return for the said Burrough of Wells by razing out the Name of Edward Berkley Esq and inserting the Name of John Hall Esq instead thereof Ordered That Sir William Waller be added to the Committee appointed to prepare Evidence against the Lords in the Tower Ordered That an Humble Application be made to his Majestie from this House by such Members thereof as are of His Majesties most â—onourable Privy Council to desire his Majesty to grant a full and general Pardon to Mr. Bernard Davis Colonel Birch reports from the Committee to whom the considerations of the Petition of Sir Thomas Whitegrave Francis Eld and Sampson Birch was referred That the Committee having Examined the matter relating to Sampson Birch had Ordered him to make the sollowing Report Resolved That Mr. Sampson Birch is Guilty of the Information charged against him That the said Birch Keeper of the Prison at Stafford his suffering Bromage a Popish Priest committed to his Custody and Condemned to walk abroad is contrary to Law To which Resolves the House agreed Mr. Hampden Reports from the Committee appointed to prepare an Address to his Majesty upon the debate of the House Humbly Representing the Dangerous State and Condition of this Kingdom in Answer to His Majesties Message relating to Tangier 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 A Message from the Lords by Sir Tymothy Baldwyn Sir Samuel Clark Mr. Speaker The Lords have appointed a Committee of five Lords to meet with a Committee of this House to adjust the methods and circumstances in the Tryal of the Lord Viscount Stafford and have Appointed the Five Lords to meet this Afternoon at three of the Clock in the Inner Court of Wards Resolved That a Committee be appointed of Ten Members of this House to meet the Committee of Lords to adjust the Methods and Circumstances in the Tryal of the Lord Viscount Stafford 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 may attend His Majestie with the last mentioned Address Ordered That the Matter touching the Election for Taunton in the County of Somerset be heard at the Bar of the House on Wednesday Morning next Lunae 29. die Novemb. 1680. A Bill for ascertaining Fines upon Convictions for Misdeameanors was Read the first time Resolved That the Bill be read a second time Ordered That a Committee be appointed to prepare and bring in a Bill for the Repeal of part of the Law already made for regulating the Fishing in the River Severne Ordered That the Executors of Sir Matthew Hale late Chief Justice of the Court of Kings Bench be desired to print his Manuscripts relating to the Crown Law And a Committee is appointed to take care of the true Printing thereof Ordered That the said Edward Brett of Staffordshire be discharged from his further Imprisonment by Order of this House Mr. Secretary Jenkins acquaints the House That he having according to the Orders of the House attended His Majestie to know his Majesties Pleasure when this House should attend him with the Address His Majestie was pleased to appoint this House to attend him at three of the Clock this afternoon in the Banquetting House And further acquaints the House that His Majestie being humbly moved according to the Order of the House for a Pardon for Bernard Dennis was graciously pleased to grant the same and though neither the said Bernard Dennis nor any other by his appointment did carry on the said Pardon to the Seal yet the same together with the Pardon granted to Mr. Turbervil were now ready under the Great Seal And the directions of the House were desired into what hands to put the same Ordered That the said Pardon be lodged in Mr. Treyby's hands for the service of the House and benefit of the said Persons Ordered That the Clerk of this House do de die in diem attend the Committee appointed to examine Precedents touching the Committing of Members of this House to the Custody of the Serjeant at Arms when Impeached in Parliament A Petition of Mr. Thomas Dangerfield was read Ordered That a Committee be appointed forthwith to insect Mr. Dangerfield's Pardon as to the Validity thereof and likewise to examine what Allowances now are or formerly have been made to Mr. Dangerfield from His Majesty and to consider the Alterations and other Circumstances of his Allowances and to report the same to the House Ordered That the Members of this
Stafford in the Name of all the Commons of England before the Lords in Parliament And the Managers this day insisted upon the general Evidence to prove the Popish Plot against the King's person the Protestant Religion and Government Post Meridiem The Committee of the Commons returning to the House Mr. Speaker resumed the Chair Then the House Adjourned to Eight of the Clock to Morrow Morning Mercurii 1 die Decemb. 1680. 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 intend to proceed to the Tryal of William Viscount Stafford at Ten of the Clock this morning in Weflminster-Hall A Petition of Samuel Gibbs Mayor of Westbury in the County of Wilts being 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 in order to the Reading thereof in a full House Ordered That the matter touching the election for Taunton in the County of Somerset be heard at the Bar of this House on Saturday morning next Ordered That the Bill for taking away the Court holden before the President and Council in the Marches of Wales be read a Second time on Friday morning next Ordered That the 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 Bex-hill and Cowding in the County of Sussex to the use of the poor of several Parishes in the County of Surry be Read on Friday morning next Ordered That Mr. John Farington a member of this House have leave to go into the Country for Recover ie of his Health Then Mr. Speaker left the Chair The managers appointed by the Commors proceeded to the particular evidence against the Lord Viscount Stafford before the Lords in Parliament and having produced and Examined several Witnesses to prove the Impeachment against him At the desire of the Lord Stafford he had time to make his further defence tomorrow Morning Post Meridiem The Committee of the Commons return to the House Mr. Speaker resumed the Chair 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 the Prisoner William Viscount Stafford to be brought to the Bar in Westminster-Hall tomorrow morning at Ten of the Clock Ordered That all Committees be adjourned And then the House Adjourned to eight of the clock tomorrow morning Jovis 2. die Decemb. 1680. I Ohn van Hattem and William Henry Cornelissen this day took the Oaths of Allegiance and Supremacy in order to their Naturalization A Bill for the Naturalization of Peter Elers and others was Read the First time Resolved That the Bill be Read a Second time Ordered That Edward Kynaston Esq a Member of this House have leave to go into the Country for Recovery of his Health A Petition of John Dandridge being in Custody of the Searjeant at Arms attending this House was Read Ordered That the said John Damdridge be discharged from his Confinment Complaint being made to the House of a Breach of Priviledge committed by Mr. Kne vet Hastings in Striking and Wounding the Servant of Hender Roberts Esq a member of this House Ordered That the said Knevet Hastings be sent for in custody of the Serjeant at Arms attending this House to answer for the said Breach of Priviledge by him Committed Ordered That nothing that hath been or shall be said by any Member of this House or by any Person that shall be produced as a witness in behalf of the Commons of England in the Tryal of William Viscount Stafford be Printed or Published without the leave of this House A Petition of Griffith Jones Esq touching the Election for the Town of New Radnor in the County of Radnor was Read Ordered That the said Petition be Referred to the Consideration of the Committee of Elections and Priviledges who are to Examine the Matter thereof and to report the same with their Opinions therein to the House Mr. Speaker left the Chair And the Committee of the Commons Proceeded in the management of the Evidence upon the Impeachment of William Viscount Stafford Post Meridiem The Committee of the Commons return to the House Mr. Speaker resumed the Chair 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 the Prisoner William Viscount Stafford to be brought again to his Tryal at the Bar in Westminster-Hall to Morrow morning at Ten of the Clock Mr. Secretary Jenkins acquaints the House That his Majesty had Commanded him to Communicate to the House a Letter written by Dr. Lamphire Principal of Hart-Hall in Oxford directed to Mr. Secretary giving an account That one William Pickering a Taylor at Wheatly in the County of Oxon and Brother to Pickering that was Executed for the Horrid Popish Plot had spoken these Words viz. That if the King should Try the Lords he should not live half a year after and that the said Pickering was Committed to Oxford Goal by the said Doctor Lamphire Which Letter was Read to the House Ordered That the Thanks of this House be humbly presented to his Majestie by such members thereof as are of His Majesties Most Honourable Privy Council for this His Majesties Gracious Communication Ordered That the said William Pickering be forthwith brought up to the Bar of this House to Answer this high Charge Ordered That the further Consideration of this Matter be Adjeurned to tomorrow morning Veneris 3 die Decemb. 1680. A Petition of Richard Rawlins in custody of the Serjeant at Arms attended this House Ordered That the said Rich Rawlins be discharged from his Imprisonment A Bill for takeing away the Court holden before the President and Council in the Marches of Wales was read a Second time Ordered That the adjourned debate touching the information yesterday communicated to this House from his Majestie be resumed this afternoon when the Committee of this House returns from the Tryal of William Viscount Stafford and that the Serjeant at Armes attending this House do give the Members of this House notice thereof in the mean time A Petition of John Hutchinson Esq in custody of the Serjeant at Armes was read Ordered That the said Mr. Hutchinson be brought to the Bar of this House tomorrow morning at Ten of the Clock Ordered That Edward Vaughan Esq be added to the Committee appointed to prepare Evidence against the Lords in the Tower 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 Collonel Stawell a member of this House have leave to
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
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
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
Chief Justice Scroggs which were In hac verba WHereas There are divers ill disposed persons who do daily Print and Publish many Seditious and Treasonable Books and Pamphlets Angl. ss endeavouring thereby to dispose the minds of his Majesties Subjects to Sedition and Rebellion And also infamous Libels reflecting upon particular persons to the great scandal of his Majesties Gevernment For suppressing whereof his Majestie hath lately issued out his Royal Proclamation And for the more speedy suppressing the said Seditious Books Libels and Pamphlets and to the end that the Authors and Publishers thereof may be brought to their punishment These are to will and require you and in His Majesties Name to charge and command you and every of you upon sight hereof to be Aiding and Assisting unto Robert Stephens Messenger of the Press in the seizing on all such Books Pamphlets as aforesaid as he shall be informed of in any Book-sellers or Printers Shops or VVarehouses or elsewhere whatsoever to the end they may be disposed as to Law shall appertain Also if you shall be informed of the Authors Printers or Publishers of such Books or Pamphlets as are abovementioned you are to apprehend them and have them before one of His Majesties Justices of the Peace to be proceeded against according to Law Dated this 29th day of November 1679. To Robert Stephens Messenger of the Press To all Mayors Sheriffs Bayliffs Constables and all other Officers and Ministers whom these may concern WILLIAM SCROGGS WHereas The Kings Majestie hath lately Issued out His Proclamation for suppressing the Printing and Publishing Vnlicensed News-Books Angl. ss and Pamphlets of News Notwithstanding which there are divers Persons who do daily Print and Publish such unlicensed Books and Phamphlets These are therefore to Will and Require You and in his Majesties Name to Charge and Command You and every of you from time to time and at all times so often as you shall be thereunto required to be Aiding and Assisting to Robert Stephens Messenger of the Press in the Seizing all such Books and Pamphlets as aforesaid as he shall be informed of in any Book-sellers Shop or Printers Shop or Ware-houses or elsewhere whatsoever to the end they may be disposed of as to Law shall appertain Likewise if you shall be informed of the Authors Printers or Publishers of such Books and Pamphlets you are to apprehend them and have them before Me or one of His Majesties Justices of the Peace to be Proceeded against as to law shall appertain Dated this 28th Day of May Anno Dom. 1680. To all Mayors Sheriffs Bayliffs Constables and all other Officers and Ministers whom these may concern To Robert Stephens Messenger of the Press WILLIAM SROGGS Upon View whereof this Committee came to this Resolution Resolved That it the Opinion of this Committee That the said Warrants are Arbitrary and Illegal And this Committee being informed of certain Scandalous Discourses said to be uttered in publick places by the Lord Chief Justice Scroggs proceeded to Examine Sir Robert Atkins late one of the Justices of the Common-pleas concerning the same by whom it appears That at a Sessions dinner at the Old Bayly in the Majorality of Sir Robert Clayton who was then present The said Chief Justice took Occasion to speak very much against Petitioning Condemning it as Resembling 41 as Factious and tending to Rebellion or to that Effect to which the said Sir Robert Atkins made no reply suspecting he waited for some Advantage over him But the Chief Justice continuing and pressing him with the said Discourse he began to Justifie Petitioning as the Right of the People especially for the Sitting of a Parliament which the Law Requires if it be done with Modesty and Respect Upon which the Chief Justice fell into a great Passion and there is some reason to believe that soon after he made an ill Representation of what the said Sir Robert had then spoke unto his Majestie And this Committee was further Informed that the said Sir Robert Atkins being in Cercuit with the said Chief Justice at Summer Assizes was I welve-month at Monmouth Mr. Arnold Mr. Price and Mr. Bedlow being then in company the Chief Justice fell severely in publick upon Mr. Bedlow taking off the credit of his Evidence aâ—ledging he had overshot himself in it or to that Effect very much to the disparagement of his Testimony And the said Sir Robert defending Mr. Bedlow's Evidence and credit he grew extream angry and loud saying to this effect That he verily believed Langhorn dyed innocently To which the said Sir Robert replied he wondred how he could think so who had condemned him himself and had not moved the King for a Reprieve for him All which Matters of discourse this Committee humbly submit to the wisdom and consideration of this House without taking upon them to give any Opinion therein And this Committee proceeded further to inquire into some Passages that happened at Lent Assizes last for the County of Somerset at the Tryal of Thomas Dare Gent. there upon an Indictment for saying falsly and seditiously That the Subjects had but two means to Redress their Grievances One by Petitioning the Other by Rebellion And found that though by his other discourse when he said so that it appeared plainly he had no rebellious intent in that he said Then God forbid there should be a Rebellion he would be the first man to draw his Sword against a Rebel yet he was profecuted with great violence And having pleaded Not Guilty he moved Mr. Justice Jones who then sat Judge there that he might try it at the next Assises for that Mr. Searle who was by at the speaking of the words and a material Witness for his defence was not then to be had and an Affidavit to that purpose was made and recieved But the said Justice Jones told him That was a favour of the Court onely and he had not deserved any Favour and so forc'd him to try it presently But the Jury appearing to be an extraordinary one provided on purpose being all of Persons that had highly opposed Petitioning for the sitting of this Parliament he was advised to withdraw his Plea and the said Justice Jones encouraging him so to do he confest the words denying any evil intention and gave the said Justice an account in writing of the Truth of the whole Matter and made a submission in Court as he was directed by the said Justice who promised to recommend him to His Majesty but imposed a Fine of 500 l. on him and to be bound to the good behaviour for three years Declaring also That he was turned out from being a Common Councellor of the Corporation of Taunton in the said County on pretence of a clause in their Charter giving such a power to a Judge of Assize And the said Thomas Dare remains yet in prison for the said Fine in which matter of the Tryal aforesaid this Committee desireth to refer it self
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
out of any Warrant for taking into custody Sir Philip Skippon who made default in attending the House at the Call thereof on Tuesday last Colonel Birch reports from the Committee appointed to receive Informations relating to the Popish Plot in Ireland That the Committee having proceeded upon the Matters to them referred had taken several Examinations and received the Answer of Sir John Davis and had also perused several Informations transmitted from the House of Lords relating to the said Plot all which he Read in his place and afterwards delivered the same in at the Clerks Table where the same were again Read The House then taking into consideration the Message sent from the Lords on Tuesday last wherein they desire the concurrence of this House the House resolved That this House doth agree with the Lords in the said Vote with the addition of these words That the Duke of York being a Papist and the expectation of his coming to the Crown hath given the greatest Countenance and Encouragement thereto as well as to the horrid Popish Piot in this Kingdom of England Resolved That that the said Vote be delivered to the Lords at a Conference Ordered That a Committee be appointed to draw up reasons to be offered at the said Conference Ordered That the several Informations of John Macnamara Maurice Fitz-Gerrald and James Nash this day Read to the House relating to the Irish Plot be forthwith Printed Resolved That Richard Poure Earl of Tyrone in the Kingdom of Ireland be Impeached of high Treason Ordered That the Lord Durseley do go up to the Bar of the Lords and Impeach him of high Treason in the name of this House and of all the Commons of England and do pray that he may be committed to safe custody Ordered That the Committee appointed to prepare the Evidence against the Popish Lords in the Tower do prepare the said Impeachment Ordered That the further consideration of the said Report in relation to Arthur Earl of Anglesey and Sir John Davis be adjourned to Saturday morning next ten of the Clock in a full House Veneris 7. Die Januarii 1680. THe Engrossed Articles of Impeachment of Sir William Scroggs Chief Justice of the Court of Kings-Bench of High Treason and other great Crimes and Misdemeanours being Read the same were carried up to the Lords by the Lord Cavendish Ordered That Mr. Lewknor and Collonel Strangewayes have leave to go into the Countrey for Recovery of their Health A Bill to prevent vexatious Actions was read a first time Resolved That the Bill be read a second time A Bill to prevent Brewers to be Justices of the Peace in the place where they exercise that Trade was read the first time Resolved That the said Bill be read a Second time A Bill to prevent the Simony of one person from prejudicing another was read the first time Resolved That the said Bill be read a second time A Bill for the Bettter discovery of Settlements of Estates for superstitious uses was read a second time Resolved That the Bill be Committed upon the Debate of the House The House being informed that one John Fancourt had lately spoken certain seditious and dangerous words for which he hath been Secured in the City of Lincoln Ordered That it be Referred to 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 The House then according to their Order entered into the Consideration of His Majesties Message sent to this House on Tuesday last Resolved That it is the opinion of this House that there is no security or safety for the Protestant Religion the Kings Life or the well Constituted and Established Government of this Kingdom without passing a Bill for disabling James Duke of Tork to Inherit the Imperial Crown of England and Ireland and the Dominions and Territories thereunto belonging and to rely upon any other Means or Remedies without such a Bill is not only insufficient but dangerous Resolved That His Majestie in His last message having assured this House of his Readiness to concur in all other means for the preservation of the Protestant Religion this House doth declare that untill a Bill be likewise passed for excluding the Duke of Tork this House cannot give any Supply to His Majestie without danger to his Majesties Person extream hazard of the Protestant Religion and unfeithfulness to those by whom this House is intrusted Resolved That all persons who advised his Majestie in his last Message to this House to insist upon an opinion against the Bill for excluding the Duke of York have given pernicious Counsel to His Majestie and are Promoters of Popery and Enemies to the King and Kingdom Resolved That it is the opinion of this House that George Earl of Hallifax is one of the Persons who advised His Majestie in his last Message to this House to insist upon an opinion against the Bill for excluding the Duke of York and hath therein given pernicious Counsel to his Majesty and is a promoter of Popery and an Enemy to the King and Kingdom Resolved That an humble Address be presented to His Majestie to remove Laurence Hide Esq from his Majesties Council and presence and from his Office in the Treasury for ever Resolved That an humble Address be presented to his Majesty to remove Henry Marquis of Worcester from his Presence and Council and all the Offices and Imployments of Honour and profit for ever Resolved That it is the Opinion of this House that Henry Marquis of Worcester is one of the Persons who advised his Majestie in his last Message to this House to insist upon an opinion against the Bill for excluding the Duke of York and hath therein given pernicious Counsel to his Majestie and is a promoter of Popery and an Enemy to the King and Kingdom Resolved That it is the opinion of this House That Henry Earl of Clarendon is one of the persons who Advised his Majesty in His last Message to this House to insist upon an Opinion against the Bill for excluding the Duke of York hath therein given pernicious Council to his Majestie and is a Promoter of Popery and an Enemy to the King and Kingdom Resolved That it is the Opinion of this House that Lewis Earl of Feversham is a promoter of Popery and of the French Interest a dangerous Enemy to the King and Kingdom Resolved That an humble Address be made to his Majestie to remove Lewis Earl of Feversham from all Military Offices and Commands and from all other Publick Offices and Imployments and from His Majesties presence for ever A Motion being made for an Address to His Majesty to remove Edward Seymour Esq from His Majesties Council and Presence Ordered That the Debate thereof be adjourned to Munday morning next Ordered That the Committee Appointed to prepare an Address to His Majesty in Answer to his Majesties Message relating
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