Bar and likewise the Lord Fairfax 1000 l. per Annum The Scots being encouraged by the Votes of the House pretend that Scotland was much exhausted by the late war and that his Majesties presence in Scotland might endanger the peace of that Nation so that it may truly be said of him as the Scripture expresseth of our Lord and Saviour He came to his own and his own received him not At last it was concluded 100000 l. to be told at York sealed and put in boxes The Scots to give Hostages to deliver up Newcastle Tinmouth and all other Garrisons thereabout the other 100000 l when they shall goe on the other side of Tine The other 200000 l. to be secured to be paid out of Delinquents estates They to deliver up the King and depart home and quit all their Garrisons The Assemblyes Confession of Faith was Voted by the House to be printed And likewise an Ordinance past for continuing the Army under Sir Thomas Fairfax for six moneths and the disbanding Major Generall Masseys Brigade The Common Enemy being quite beaten out of the field there hapned sad divisions in the Parliament and Army at home They were distinguished into two severall parties under the title of Presbyterian and Independent the Independent being the most subtill and close Insinuated into the most part of the Army and carried on their designes with greater Vigor and Resolution then the other as the sequell will manifest The King from Newcastle on the 20 of December 1646. sends a Message to both Houses of Parliament at Westminster and to the Commissioners of the Parliament of Scotland for a personall Treaty Charles R. His Majesties thoughts have been alwayes sincerely bent to the peace of his Kingdomes was and will be ever desirous to take all wayes that might most clearely make appeare the candor of his Intentions to his people and to this end could find no better way then to propose a personall and free debate with his two Houses of Parliament upon all the present differences yet finding very much contrary to his expectation that this offer was laid aside His Majesty beat all his thoughts to make his Intentions fully knowne by a particular answer to the Propositions deliver'd to him in the name of both Kingdomes the 24 of July last and that his Majesty plainly saw that whatsoever answer he could give was subject to mis-informations and mis-constructions which upon his own explanation he is confident will give good satisfaction for the setling of a lasting peace to which purpose his Majesty desireth to come to London or any of his Houses thereabouts upon the publick faith and security of his two Houses where by his personall presence he may not onely raise a mutuall confidence betwixt him and his people but also have those doubts cleared and those difficulties explained to him assuring them that he will make no other demands but such as he believes confidently to be just and such as will tend much to the tranquility of the people for except King and people have reciprocall care each of other neither can be happy To conclude it is your King that desires to be heard the which if refused to a subject by a King he would be thought a tyrant for it wherefore his Majesty requests you to accept this offer and that it will be the readiest way to make these Kingdomes a Comfort to their Friends and a Terror to their Enemies The Lords and Commons after some time sent a Letter by Sir Peter Killigrew in answer to the Kings Message Both Houses Voted his Majesty to come to his House at Holmbey in Northampton-shire a House not Inferior to any in the Kingdome They likewise Vote that the Earle of Pembrooke the Earle of Denbigh and the Lord Mountague Sir Walter Earle Sir John Holland Sir James Harrington Sir John Cooks Mr. Crue and Major Generall Browne with Mr Marshall and Mr Caryl to attend them be sent as Commissioners to receive the King at Newcastle and to conduct him to Holmbey They likewise orderd diverse servants to attend him The sixt of February 1646. The Scots according to agreement quit Newcastle and the English possest it they likewise deliver'd up his Majesty to the Commissioners sent by the Parliament his Majesty seemed somewhat unwilling at first to goe to Holmbey rather choosing to goe to Newmarket but after a short time he was satisfied but by no meanes he could be drawne to heare Mr. Marshall or Mr. Caryl preach hoping they will allow him his Conscience Munday the 8 of February his Majesty with a sad and sorrowfull Countenance set forward with the Commissioners attended with 900 Horse and that night came to Durham on thursday to Aukland fryday to Richmond saturday to Rippon and there rested the Sabbath day Munday to Leeds tuesday to Wakefeild wednesday to Rotheram so to Mansfeild thence to Leicester where he stays the next Lords day on Munday He sets forward for Holmbey whither being no sooner come but Proclamation is made that none that had deserted the Parliament and assisted the King should presume to come neare his Majesty Sir Thomas Fairfax came to Leicester with a considerable part of the Army where he was met with the Mayor and Aldermen in state His Majesty sent a Letter to the House to request his Chaplains to be sent to him he named twelve viz. Bishop of London Bishop of Salisbury Bishop of Peterborough Dr Shelden Dr March Dr Sanderson Dr Bayly Dr Hamond Dr Beà le Dr Haywood Dr Fuller Dr Taylor but desired any two hearing no answer he sent a second Letter but still they delayed sending an answer The 25 of February his Majesty at the Commissioners request kept the fast ordred by the Commons it hapning on the same day that he had appointed for the Calamities of Ireland February the 28 his Majesty was pleased to bestow a visit on the Earle of Pembrooke who was at that time dangerously sick His Majesty made a Resolution to keep every fryday a day of solemne fasting and humiliation The Commons Vote and Order what Garrisons shall be slighted and which continued The Parliament Vote likewise the remainder of the Army to disband all but those that were appointed for Ireland and the severall Garrisons Upon which diverse Petitions came in from severall Counties to the Generall not to disband till such time as he had fully settled the Kingdome whereupon immediately the Army had a Randevouz and draw up a Petition to be presented to the Parliament That their arreares might be payd An act of Indempnity passe to secure them that the foote might not be compeld to serve out of the Kingdome that the widdowes and children of such as had lost their lives in the service might be provided for which Petition was presented by Colonell Hamond Colonell Rich and Colonell Ireton The Parliament shewed their dislike of the Petition and Vote that those that shall continue in this disturbing condition shall be proceeded against as
in danger requiring the assistance of the Scots and that he hath fully accepted of the treaty proposed and gives it all the furtherance that lies in him by demanding the necessary meanes of effecting not doubting of the Parliaments ready compliance He conjures them is Christians and good Patricts that they will make all possible expedition by hasting downe their Commissioners praying the God of peace to blesse all endeavours that all his Dominions may enjoy a safe and happy peace A designe was laid for the betraying of Stafford for the King but by the Industry of Captain Stone it was prevented The Commons upon the City Petition Order a Bill to be brought in that Major Generall Skippon lift no more but by speciall Order of the House The Earle of Pembrooke was made Constable of Windsor-Castle in the roome of the Earle of Holland The Lords communicate to the Commons their Votes touching the Kings Letter which were to this purpose That the four Votes of non-addresses formerly made by both Houses be null And 1. That his Majesty may have all such to come to him as are necessary for the carrying on of the Treaty on his part 2. That he have such servants as are needfull to attend his person 3. That the Treaty be at Newport 4. That his Majesty may also invite the Scots to the Treaty to treat on the Propositions at Hampton Court wherein they concur'd 5. That the number of Lords to treat be five and the Commons to appoint ten 6. That his Majesty may have as much Liberty as at Hampton Court Lastly That all possible expedition may be made therein this being apprehended to be the most necessary for the setling of a peace Tinmouth Castle at that time Revolted and retaken the manner thus The Governour being absent the Deputy-Governour sends all the old Souldiers abroad in parties he suddenly declares for the King Armes all the prisoners Invites Seamen and other discontented persons to his assistance one making an escape over the walls Informes Sir Arthur Haslerig of it who immediately sent a party under the Command of Colonell Alhfeild also 100 Dragoones who with what Ladders could be got scaled the wall Major Cobbet led on the forlorne after a very hot Encounter enterd the Castle put all in armes to the sword The Deputy-Governour was found dead The Prince having laine long in the Downs and effected nothing resolves upon Laud service to which purpose they land eight hundred on the Kentish shoare diverse of which were Resormades and persons of quality Colonell Hewson being orderd for the security of the Kentish forces draws together what force he could which were betwixt three and four hundred who together with the assistance of Major Husbands with 100 Horse fell upon them kild many totally disperst them took diverse prisoners In Herefordshire 200 Horse were got together Commanded by Sir Henry Lingen for the King who suddenly surpriz'd the County troop and destroyd them The Commons fell into debate of the Heads of the Kings Letter concerning a treaty they agreed to all excepting their calling the Scots to their assistance who had broke the peace and enterd England in an hostile manner secur'd the townes of Barwick and Carlile but after a long debate they assented that the King should Invite any of the Kingdome of Scotland to come and treate in the behalfe of that Kingdome and that they should have safe conduct They likewise orderd Instructions for Colonell Hamond and order that he so deport himselfe as that the King may be in the same condition as at Hampton Court viz. with freedome Honour and safety The Lieutenant Generall and Lambert being Joyn'd the whole Army was concluded to be 12000 fighting men The Army march of Gisburne where there was a skirmish betwixt Major Righy and some part of the Enemy The next day the Army marcht to Stonyhurst a great house in the way to Preston a party was drawne out commanded by Major Sanders who fell on the Enemies out-guards and took the Earle of Connought a Scotchman and six others prisoners The next morning early the Army marcht to Preston where the whole Army of the Enemy both English and Scotch lay which by computation could be little lesse then 24000 fighting men a forlorne was commanded out by Major Smithson consisting of 500 foote 200 Horse and two Troops of Dragoones who charg'd furiously upon the Enemy pursuing them from lanes and Villages with great resolution which so allarm'd the whole Army and caus'd them to draw up upon a More two miles East of Preston out forelorne notwithstanding the deepnesse of the wayes behaved themselves with much Gallantry who after they had cleared the lanes our foote drew up the Van consisted of Colonell Bright The Lord Generall and the Lancashire Regiments The Reare of Colonell Overtons Deane and Prides Regiments The Battle of a suddaine was very hot and there was a fierce dispute for two houres the enemy having lined the hedges did much mischiefe both to Horse and foote but by the Courage of our men they quickly clear'd the Hedges and forc't them to retire The enemy still gave ground and we still pursuing from hedge to hedge our Horse pursue them through Preston Towne the enemies Army divides and retreats two severall wayes A body of 3000 Horse move toward Lancnster the rest of their Horse and foote retreat over the river Ribble our men follow and pursue them severall wayes Colonell Twissleton and Colonell Thornelow pursue them Northward overtook Rout scatter and took multitudes prisoners But the maine of our Army followed that part that went Southward there was a very hot dispute over Ribble birdge which they Gallantly defended for two houres at length a body of our Pikes runs furiously upon their Muskets and forced them to retire we kild and took many of them but night approaching hinderd the pursuit The next morning the Enemies whole body was drawne up upon a hill on the side of Preston our men fall on with courage and forced them to retire in disorder we kild and took many and that night they fled to Wiggon which they plunderd The next morning the Enemy came within two miles of Warington where they drew up in a very strong field which had high banks like fortifications where O swold King of the Northumbers was formerly slaine We fell upon them though with very great disadvantage our Horse Charge Resolutely The dispute was long and sharp untill such time as the foote could come up to engage which no sooner came but they retire and we pursued them to Warington bridge there was kild of the Enemy above a thousand and above two thousand taken prisoners the rest fled over Warington bridge where the foote were left by the Horse who fled upon our advance they sent a parly and above 4000 well accoutred men with the Lieutenant Generall laid downe their Armes and submitted to mercy Those that went with Duke Hamilton move up and downe in Cheshire
the Country people in Armes on their own defence seaze on diverse straglers many expecting no good leave him at last he moves toward Staffordshire Severall parties of Horse were sent after them one meets with Middleton who commanded 400 Horse falls on him disperst his company and took him prisoner Sir Marmaduke Langdale is appareheded in an Inne The Duke sent to the Lord Gray for a Cessation and to render himselfe prisoner to him which accordingly he did Immediately Commissioners are appointed by the Parliament to examine him Colonell George Monroe being newly come into England with a considerable body for a reserve understanding the totall defeat of Hamilton returnes back into Scotland and not long after came the Marquesse of Argile Lord Louden Leaven and other of the Nobility to Lieutenant Generall Cromwell to manifest their utter dislike of Hamiltons coming with an Army and Monroes endeavours to Levy Forces for the prosecution of the War and to desire his assistance against him To which the Lieutenant Generall return'd answer of his wiilingnesse to assist them and to joyne with them to subdue Monro and that he did really believe that God gave the Dukes Army into the hands of those under his Command to make way for the reliefe of the faithfull in Scotland he forthwith communicates it to the House who accordingly Vote that they approve of his Entring Scotland for the assistance of those that endeavour'd to oppose Hamiltons Levies The Parliament Orders so many of the Scots prisoners being in all 15000 that were forc't away be sent home in regard of the dearnesse of provissions The rest to be sent to severall parts abroad The King from Caresbrooke August 28. 1648. sent a Letter to the Speakers of both Houses thus My Lord and Mr Speaker I have receiv'd your Letter of the 25 of this moneth with the Votes that you sent me and though they are not so full as I could have wisht to the perfecting of a Treaty yet because I conceive by what you hav done that I am in some measure fit to begin on such is my uncessant and earnest desire to give a peace to these my now distressed Kingdomes as I now accept the Treaty therefore desire that such five Lords and ten Commons as my two Houses shall appoint be speedily sent fully Anthorized and Instructed to treat with me not doubting but what is now wanting will at our meeting upon debate be fully supplied not onely to the furtherance of this Treaty but also to the Consummating of a safe and well-grounded peace So I rest your good Friend Charles R. Indorsed For the Earle of Manchester Speaker of the House of Peeres pro tempore and William Lenthall He likewise Inclosed the Names of those persons which he desir'd might attend him most whereof were Granted him The Towne of Colchester having held out the longest siege of any Towne in England since the first beginning of the troubles in Expectation of Relief from the North but the Scots Colours being brought before the Towne totally disappointed them of their Expectation and being by famine the sorest of Calamities compeld to deliver the Towne up to mercy they having sed neere ten dayes together on Hors-flesh The Great ones endeavouring to escape were turn'd back by their own men The Towne was deliver'd up on these Conditions The Generall permitting the Common Souldiers to depart with life and the Officers to remaine at his disposall he to exempt from mercy whom he pleased the remainder to be remitted to the mercy of the Parliament The Towne to Rayse 14000 l. to preserve it from plunder And accordingly August 27. they marcht out on the Conditions above exprest The miseries of the Towne were great there being hardly so much as Hors-bread lest to have preserv'd them alive one day On the 28 of August at a Councell of War it was resolv'd that Sir Charles Lucas Sir George Lisle and Sir Barnard Jaskin a Papist be shot to death And accordingly Sir Charles Lucas was brought out into the Castle yard where he insisted upon an appeale but being deni'd he took Courage and looking death in the face with an undaunted resolution submitted himselfe Sir George Lisle was next brought forth who Kist Sir Charles being dead and after private prayer desir d a speedy death more desperate then many of the ancient Romanes on Record It s Credibly reported by Eye-witnesses that upon the very place where they were executed there groweth no grasse notwithstanding all the ground thereabout is very fertill Sir Barnard Jaskin was reprieved The Generall sent immediately a Letter to the Commons giving them an account of the whole proceedings as to Colchester as likewise certified the names of those Officers prisoners which were neere two hundred and to know their pleasure withall Telling them that to satisfie the Souldiery and to take vengeance he had caused to be shot to death Sir Charles Lucas and Sir George Lisle the first having contrary to promise falsified his word with him the second directed the shooting of poysoned bullets both being against the Law of Armes August the 31. the Commons took into Consideration the Kings Letter and those persons that he had nominated And by reason that some of them were exempted persons others prisoners or under bail they were not all allowed The rest that his Majesty had nam'd had freedom to goe The next day the Lords and Commons nominated their Commissioners to treat with his Majesty viz. The Earle of Northumberland the Earle of Pembrooke Lord of Salsbury Lord of Middlesex Lord Say and Seale for the Commons Mr Hollis the Lord Wainman Mr Perepoint Sir Harbottle Grinastone Sir Henry Vane Junior Sir John Corbet Mr Crew Mr Samuel Browne Mr Glin and Mr Bulkley The Commons order a Letter to be sent to his Majesty with the names of the Commissioners withall letting him know how far they had proceeded in the Treaty They further considered of Instructions for the Treaty and require money of the City to defray the Charge The Prince Riding in the Downs with the Revolted ships sent a summons to the Earle of Warwick to tender and submit himselfe to the Kings Majesty for the better security and settlement of the Kingdome The Lord Admirall returnes answer that God-willing he will performe the trust reposed in him and for setling the Kingdome he leaves that to the Parliament September 11. a Petition was presented to the Commons entituled The humble Petition of thousands well affected in the City of London giving diverse Reasons why they assisted them in the war with their lives and fortunes giving them to understand that they expected other meanes for a settlement then a personall Treaty as likewise taking particular notice of the severall wants and necessities of the Nation concluding that they had laid to heart the blood and losse of the people and wisht them seriously to consider whether an act of oblivion will satisfie Gods Justice and appease his wrath Which Petition
Horse the next day he came to Windsor and was deliver'd up to the Governour who had Instructions not to permit him to be spoken with nor visited by any but by speciall order from Parliament or Generall Divers of the secluded Members were discharged by the Generall on the 23 of December The Commons order a Charge to be drawne up against the Capitall offenders of the Kingdome and amongst the rest the King was named Decem. 28 an Ordinance was brought into the House nominating divers persons to try the King which being tenderd to the Lords was refused Major Pitcher an Active stout man for the King having his life Granted on promise to goe out of the Land was apprehended and shot to death in St Pauls Church-yard The Commons seeing the Lords averse proceed themselves and agreed to the Commission brought in for Triall of the King and order the Commissioners to meete on Munday in the painted Chamber to consider of manner time and place January the9th the Lords Vote that the King could not commit Treason against the Common-wealth and order a Declaration to be drawne up of the Grounds and reasons of their rejecting the Commission for triall of the King and another That no Act of the Commons is binding without the consent of the Lords The Queene sent a Letter to both Houses craving leave to come over to visit her husband but it would not be Granted The Ministers of London though now too late came to the Generall at White Hall to declare their dislike of the proceedings which begat a High contest The Commons Adjourne part of Hillary Tearme in order to the Kings Triall Some Judges for dissenting from the Kings Triall are displaced Jan. 17. The Commissioners for Triall of the King meet in the painted Chamber and debated whether they should have in Court the Mace and Sword and accordingly it was Resolv'd to have both Mace and Sword the Sword alone being too terrible The Commons upon the Kings request Order Dr Juxson Bishop of London to attend him as Chaplain Proclamation was made in Westminster Hall and the Old Exchange for witnesses to come in against the King Fryday the 19 of January the King was brought from Windsor Castle and was met by a Regiment of Horse four miles from London and that night lodg'd at St James's The Kings Bench-Bar and Chancery were appointed for the Commissioners to sit in which were Rayled and Scaffolded in the midst was placed a Crimson Velvet Chaire for the President with a Desk before him on which lay a Crimson Velvet Cushon The Seates all Covered with Red Beneath was a Table with a Turky Carpet for the Carkes On saturday the 20 of January the King was brought with a strong Guard of foote through St James's Parke to White Hall and from thence was convay'd by water to Sir Robert Cottons House with a Guard of twenty Partesons The President Sargeant Bradshaw with his Traine held up before whom was Carried the Sword by Collonell Humphrys and the Mace by Sergeant Dandy after whom came seventy Commissioners the Councell was Mr Aske a Lawyer of the Inner Temple Dr Daureslaus a Civilian and Mr Cooke of Grays Inne was Solicitor Genenerall for the businesse The Court being sat the Commission by which they sat was Read together with the Commissioners names The President commanded the Sergeant at Armes to fetch in the Prisoner who immediately brought the King attended by a Guard of Partezons and placed him in a Chaire He was no sooner sat but with a sterne Countenance he viewed the Court Lookt up toward the Galleries and rising from his Chaire turn'd himselfe to behold the vast multitudes of Souldiers and others that were in the Hall It was further observable that at his Majesties first coming into the Court the top of his staff fell off which none stooping for he took up himselfe Silence being Commanded the Lord President told the King they were assembled by the Authority of the Commons of England to proceed to the Triall of Charles Stuart King of England who had betrayed the trust reposed in him by the people and Commanded the Charge to be read in Open Court which was to this effect That the said Charles Stuart being admitted King of England and Intrusted with a Limited power to Governe according to the Laws for the good and benefit of the people and preserving their Rights and Liberties yet neverthelesse out of a wicked designe to uphold himselfe by a Tyrannicall power according to his will thereby to overthrow the Rights and Liberties of the people yea thereby to make voyd the foundation thereof he the said Charles Stuart for accomplishing such wicked designes and for the protecting himselfe and his adherents in his and their wicked practices hath traiterously and maliciously Levied war against the present Parliament and the people therein represented Particularly upon or about the 13 day of June 1642 at Beverly in the County of York and at or upon the 13 day of July in the yeare aforesaid in the County and City of York and upon the 24 of August in the same yeare at the County of the Towne of Nottingham when and where he set up his Standard of War and on about the 23 of October in the same yeare at Edg-hill and Keinton field and upon or about at 13 day of November in the same yeare at Branford in the County of Middlesex and at or upon the 13 of August 1643 at Cavesham bridge neare Reading in the County of Berks and at our upon the 13 of October in the same yeare at or neare the City of Glocester and at or upon the 30 of November in the yeare last mentioned at Newbery in the County of Berks and at Crepida bridge the 13 of July 1644 and the third of September in the same yeare at Bodmin and other places neere adjacent in Cornwall and on the 30 day of November in the yeare last mentioned at Newbery aforesaid and on the 8 of June 1645 at the Towne of Leicester and also on the 14th day of the same moneth in the same yeare at Naseby field at which severall times and places or most of them and at many other places in the Land at severall other times within the yeares aforementioned as also in the yeare 1646 He the said Charles Stuart hath caused many thousands of the people of the Nation to be slaine by divisions partyes and Insurrections in the Land by Invasions from forraine parts endeavoured and procur'd by him and by many other evill wayes and meanes He the said Charles Stuart hath not onely maintain'd and carried on the said war by Land and Sea during the yeares aforementioned but hath also revived or caus'd to be revived the said war against the Parliament and the good people of the Nation this present yeare 1648 in the Counties of Kent Essex Sutry Sussex and Middlesex and in many other Counties in England and Wales and also by Sea And particularly
and took notice how they had taken the Government all in pieces how that a skilfull Watch-maker to clense his Watch will take it asunder and when it is put together it will goe better provided no pin be omitted Now I have done this on my part you know what to doe on yours reposing Great Trust and confidence in your affection The passing of this Bill was by wise men thought to be none of the least of his failings Judge Barkly was by the Usher of the black Rod arrested as he sat on the Kings Bench for high treason Thomas Earle of Strafford was next brought upon the stage the Articles exhibited against him were from 14 made 28. and on the 22 of March 1640. his Triall began The place appointed was Westminster-Hall where scaffolds were raised on both sides nine degrees in height The two uppermost for the Scotch Commissioners and the Irish Lords In the midst in a lower ascent sat the Peeres of the Realme a Throne also was erected for the King but he never appear'd publiquely but was every day of the Triall in a Close Gallery to heare and observe the whole proceedings and took notes The Earle of Arundell was Lord High Steward and the Earle of Linsey Lord High Constable The Charge was principally managed by Mr. Glin and Mr. Maynard both Members of the Commons House fifteene dayes together was the Earle arraigned and gave in his answer to every particular Charge The Commons Charge him afresh by Mr. Pim concerning some Notes taken by Secretary Vane which were discover'd by his son of his telling the King be had an Army in Ireland which his Majesty might Imploy to reduce this Kingdome to obedience He is againe call'd to the Barre and Mr. Glin and Mr. Pim endeavour to prove him Guilty by Law They extend his Crimes and make him as Odious as possible they can The Earle moves for Councell which the Peeres could not in reason deny The Commons oppose but after three dayes contest the Peeres prevaile Councell is assign'd him viz. M. Lane The Princes Atturney Mr. Gardner Recorder of London Mr. Loe and Mr. Lightfoote and Saturday the 17 of Aprill was appointed for him and his Councell to appeare where his Councell argued his case in Law that day they adjourn not appointing any time for their next meeting The Commons House Vote him Guilty of high Treason upon the evidence of Sir Henry Vanes notes which Bill of Attainder was sent up to the Lords which in their House was much opposed Some few dayes after Mr. St John The Kings Soliciter was sent by the Commons to the Lords to Justifie the Bill by Law which accordingly was by him performed in Westminster-Hall The Earle being present and The King in his accustomed place The Peeres in their House proceed to Condemnation The King having notice of it on the first of May Calls both Houses together where he declares that he had been present at the whole Triall and that in Conscience he could not condemne him of high Treason He likewise in Vindication of the Earle declares 1. That he never had any Intention to bring over the Irish Army nor ever was advised by any body so to doe 2. That there never was any debate before him either in publick Councell or private Committee of the disloyalty of his English subjects And that though he could not in Conscience condemne him of high Treason yet he could not cleare him of misdemeanours He desired them to consider what a tender Conscience was and that to satisfie his people he would doe much but in this of Conscience neither fear nor any other respect should make him goe against it He desired them to find out some middle way and was of opinion that for misdemeanours he thought him not fit to serve him or the Common-wealth in any place of trust no not a Constable This speech gave much discontent to both Houses Sunday May the second The Prince of Orange was married to the Lady Mary at White Hall with Great solemnity and triumph The next day diverse seditious persons had stirred up the multitude to the number of 5000 or 6000. who in a Tumultuous manner came arm'd to Westminster crying out for Justice to be executed on the Earle committed outrages on divers Lords but by faire promises of my Lord Chamberlain they were appeased They likewise posted at Westminster Hall Gate and the Exchange a Catalogue of those that opposed the Bill of Attainder under the title of Strafordians The fift of May a Motion was made in the House for a loan of 650000 l. to be Lent till it was Levied by Subsidy provided the King would pass a Bill not to adjourne prorogue or dissolve this Parliament without the consent of both Houses upon which Motion a Bill was order'd to be drawne up The Lords by advice of the Judges Vote the Earle Guilty of the 15 and 19 Articles And at a Conference of both Houses it was ordred That some Lords be sent to the King with the two Bills one for executing the Earle The other for continuance of this Parliament which accordingly was done on Saturday and The King promised his answer on Monday All the Sabbath day he was much perplext within himselfe The Clamours of the multitude were great he sends for the Judges to advise summons the Privy Councell and with them spends much time in arguing the Case sends for five Bishops viz. London Lincolne Carlile Durham and Bishop Vsher who for Law wholly remit him to the Judges and for Conscience he having heard the whole proceedings if he conceiv'd him Guiltlesse he ought not to condemne him The Judges in part satisfie the King by declaring that he was Guilty of high Treason The Earle himselfe that day writ a Letter with his own hand To set his Majesties Conscience at Liberty humbly requesting him to prevent such mischiefes as might ensue upon his refusall to pass the Bill and That his consent herein should acquit him to God more then all the world beside Munday the 10th of May his Majesty being wearied with complaints granted a Commission to the Earle of Arundell Lord Privy Seale Lord Chamberlain and others to pass the two Bills The next day being much afflicted in his spirit he wrote to the Lords and sent it by the Prince wherein he requests That although he had past the Bill of Attainder against The Earle yet desir'd to shew mercy by letting that unfortunate man to end his life in Close Imprisonment but if no lesse then life can satisfie my people I must say Fiat Justicia The Postscript was If he must die it were Charity to reprieve him till Saturday The House returnd answer that his request could not possibly be admitted without apparent danger to Him his Wife and Children On Wednesday the 12 of May he was brought from the Tower to the scaffold on Tower-hill attended by Bishop Vsher where he made his last Speech to the people Protesting his Innocency in
enemies to the State Petitions were likewise on the other side out of Essex and other Counties presented to the Parliament of their utter dislike of the Armyes proceedings But to close the breach Commissioners are chosen by the Parliament and Army and meete in order to a Right understanding The Parliament order 60000 l. a moneth for payment of the Forces appointed to prevent free quarter Upon his Majesties desire to come neere London the Lords Vote him to come to Otelands so soone as the House can be provided to which the Commissioners consent After his Majesty had been neere five moneths at Holmbey on the fourth of June 1646. neare a thousand Souldiers Commanded by Cornet Joyce came somewhat late to Holmbey and desired to speake with his Majesty it was answered that then it was unseasonable However with much Importunity Cornet Joyce was admitted into his Majesties presence where he tould him he was come by command of the Army to remove him from that place his Majesty replyed it was then too late but in the morning he would speak further with him His Majesty according to his promise came downe in the morning to the Cornet where he was attended by the Souldiers he askt them by what Authority they came there they replyed from the Army He further askt if they came from Sir Thomas Fairfax his Army the Cornet replyed from the Army His Majesty said what if I should refuse to goe with you would you compell me they replyed we hope your Majesty will not refuse but we have command to bring you His Majesty replyed I have these Questions to put to you which if you consent to I will goe with you The first was That he might have no violence offer'd to his person they all unanimously shouted and cryed out none none Secondly He desired that his trunks and papers might not be rifled and tumbled they promised to set a Guard on them and that they should not be toucht Thirdly He requir'd such servants to attend him against whom there was no just acceptions they answered he should Lastly He desired that nothing be Imposed upon him contrary to his Conscience they answered it was not their Judgement to force-any thing against conscience on any one much lesse on his Majesty At one of the Clock his Majesty went along with them The next day the Generall sent a Letter to the Parliament to certifie that he knew nothing of the party that attended his Majesty neither what number nor by what Authority the reason that the party had sent to him he sends up which was that there were certaine persons that intended to take away his Majesty thereby to make a new warre the plot and plotters they were able to prove when call'd thereunto which necessitated them to secure his Majesties person His Majesty was according to his own desire convey'd to Newmarket by this we see clearely that the Greatest in the world are but pilgrims on Earth The Generall and Army Randevouz at St Albones and sent a Letter of his Intentions to come to London with the Army Eleven Members of the Commons House are Impeached by the Army On the 28 of June 1647. His Majesty was brought to Hatfield the Duke of Richmond attending him with many of the old Courtiers Dr Hamond and diverse others of his Chaplains were admitted to read divine service to him according to the Ancient custome of the Church of England The House being Informed of the Duke of Richmond and the Chaplains attendants on his Majesty Order a Letter to be forthwith sent to the Governour for their removall The Generall by Letters certifie the Parliament of his Majesties desire to see his Children and his request for continuance of those persons about him and further to satisfie them that the Army have no treaty with his Majesty nor ayme at nothing more then the setling of the peace of the Kingdome From Hatfield his Majesty was removed to Causum attended by all that waited on him at Hatfield excepting the Duke of Richmond who voluntarily absented himselfe The House according to the Kings request order his Children to goe to him and the Earle of Northumberland to attend them his Majesty was Joyfull at the sight of his Children The Generall being in the presence Chamber was much respected which moved the Princess to aske who it was who being Inform'd it was the Generall she immediately addrest her selfe to him with great civilitie and thankt him for this great happinesse that she then enjoyed the sight of her deare Father effected by him alone which she should ever thankfully acknowledge and endeavour to requite The Generall return'd humble thankes and that what he had done was but the least of those duties he was oblig'd to serve his Majesty and Children in and kissing her Hand withdrew The Eleven Members discharge themselves of their charge and require leave of the House to goe beyond Sea which was consented too Upon the Armyes removing to Bedford his Majesty was brought to Wooborne a House of the Lord of Bedfords with his old attendance The Parliament Order the Militia of London to raise Forces and immediately the Train'd Bands and Auxiliaries are commanded to man the Forts upon Information of the Armyes coming to London Colonell Massey was appointed Major Generall Colonell Poins and others are put into Command The Generall Orders a Randevouz at Hounslow in order to his coming to London thither diverse of the Members of both Houses with the Speaker repaire and consult of Getting the Citie without blood and accordingly a party is sent to face Southwark Fort upon whose approach it was deliver'd up to them The City petitions the Generall The Generall requires all the Forts from Tyburne to the Thames to be delivered up to him that he might Guard the Parliament and secure the eleven Members On the seventh of August the Generall and Army march in triumph through the City most of the Souldiers having Bays in their hatts in token of Victory Immediately Sir Thomas Fairfax is made Constable of the Tower by which he hath power to constitute a Lieutenant and accordingly the Honour was conferd on Colonell Titchburne Massey and Poyns fly over into Holland The Generall presents a Declaration to the House of the Grounds and reasons of the Armyes March The Lords and Commons Null all those Votes that past during the time that the Major part of the House went to the Generall On the twelfth of August was appointed a thanksgiving for the preservation of the City His Majesty was remov'd to Oatlands on the 23 of August he went to Sion to visit his Children and rested that night Upon his Majesties desire he was remov'd to Hampton Court and his Children orderd to be with him Both Houses order the Casting downe of the Workes about the City the maintaining whereof was very chargeable and burthensome The Houses Vote of sending Propositions to his Majesty to which the Scotch Commissioners consent and on the seventh of
February 1647. they were carried to his Majesty by Major Generall Browne and the Scotch Commissioners who were to bring an answer in six dayes upon the Receit of the Propositions he desired to know whether they were the same with those he received at Newcastle it was answered there was onely some little alterations as to persons that served him in the late war then he desired to know of the Scotch Commissioners if they concur'd they answer'd they did His Majesty said they were matters of Great concernment and requir'd serious consideration but he would take care that they should have an answer within the time limited The Committee and Commissioners order 6000 foote 2400 Horse and 500 Dragoones to be sent into Ireland and care was taken to provide all necessary provisions The Commons likewise Order a moneths Gratuity to be given to the Army They likewise Vote a standing Army of 18000 foote 7200 Horse and a 1000 Dragoones be kept up as a standing Army for England An answer came from his Majesty which was by the House Voted not satisfactory The Commons took into consideration the Actions of diverse Eminent Citizens in London tending to a new war Vote a Charge of high nature be brought in and the Lord Mayor Alderman Adams Alderman Langham Alderman Bunce and Sheriffe Cullam with diverse other active Citizens were taken into Custody diverse Lords were committed to the Black Rod as the Earle of Lincolne Earle of Suffolke Lord Barkley Lord Willowby Lord Maynard Lord Hunsden September the 28. 1647. The Commons once more Vote to send to his Majesty and to that purpose they considered of severall Propositions That about Religion being the maine thing They also Vote his Majesty be desired to give his consent to such Act or Acts of Parliament as shal be presented to him for setling of Presbyterian Government according to the matter of severall Ordinances of Parliament for the Directory or Church Government to continue for the space of three yeares from the time that the King shall give his consent to such Act or Acts. They likewise Voted the Common-prayer-booke shall not be used in private The Souldiers about his Majesty are very civill permitting his Majesty to Hunt with the Duke of Richmond Marquesse of Hartford Marquesse of Ormond Earle of Southampton and diverse others of the Nobility without any Interruption His Majesty sent a Letter to the Generall desiring his Children to stay with him a night or two it being too great a Journey to goe and come to St James's in a day which he communicates to the Parliament They Order the Earle of Northumberland to satisfie his Majesty about his Children The Heads of the Propositions agreed upon by both Houses to be presented to his Majesty were these 1. The Militia for twenty yeares in the hands of Parliament or Committee of Parliament in Intervalls 2. Money be raised to pay the publique debts of the Kingdome 3. All Honours bestowed by his Majesty since the 22 of May 1642. to be Null and Voyd 4. Nulling his Majesties Great Seale and confirming that of the Parliament 5. Totally to abolish Bishops and their Hierarchy roote and branch 6. All their Lands to be sould for the payment of publique debts and other necessary Charges of the Kingdome 7. Make voyd the cessation of Ireland 8. The Election of all the Chiefe Officers of trust as Treasurer Admirall be by Parliament and they to hold during their good behaviour The Deputy of Ireland to be appointed by Parliament and to hold during pleasure 9. The Presbyterian Government to be settled as to the Religious service of God 10. The Treaties betwixt England and Scotland be confirm'd as it is now agreed 11. Justices of peace and Sheriffs to be Chosen by Grand Jury men 12. That his Majesty restore all such servants to their places as have been put out for adhering to the Parliament 13. That his Majesty passe an Act for the sale of Deane and Chapters Lands and the money to be dispos'd of as both Houses of Parliament shall think fit 14. That his Majesty shall not give pardon of Life to seven excepted persons 15. That his Majesty passe an Act for the dis-forresting all the Forrests and Chases in England 16. That his Majesty passe an Act for securing the arreares of the Souldiers of the Army and all other Souldiers that have serv'd the Parliament and those arreares to be payd out of the Remainder of Bishops Lands 17. That the Count of Wards be null and that his Majesty have 50000 l. per Annum in lieu of it 18. A period may be set to this Parliament All which being Granted His Majesty the Queene and Prince to Enjoy their revenues and the King to Governe The Commons order diverse of his Majesties old servants be discharg'd and that there be a stricter Guard then usuall The Scotch Commissioners sent a Letter to the House of the deep sense of his Majesties Imprisonment withall desiring his Majesty may come to London to treat with Honour Freedome and Safety and advise that it would withall be the most profitable and effectuall meanes for attaining of a happy peace and setling Religion the Restoring of his Majesty to his just Rights and continuing and strengthning a good understanding with both Nations Which Letter was layd aside News was brought to the House that his Majesty had made an escape out of his restraint from Hampton Court The manner thus November 11. 1647. He according to his custome withdrew himselfe to be private a little before Evening prayer staying somewhat longer then was usuall it was taken notice of yet at first without suspition but he not coming forth suddenly there were feares which increased by the Crying of a Grayhound severall times within in the room and upon search it was found that the King was gone and by the way of Paradice a place so call'd in the garden much about the close of the Evening He left on the Table three Papers one to the Parliament one to the Commissioners and a third to Colonell Whaly one of them was as followeth Liberty being that which in all times hath been but especially now is the condition the aym and desire of all men common reason shews that Kings lesse then any should endure captivity yet I call God to witnesse with what patience I have endur'd a tedious restraint which so long as I had any hopes that this sort of my suffering might conduce to the peace of my Kingdomes or the hindring of more effusion of blood I did willingly undergoe but now finding by too certaine proofes that this my continued patience must not onely turne to my personall ruine but likewise be of more prejudice then furtherance to the publique good I thought I was bound as well by naturall as politicall obligations to seeke my safety by retiring my selfe sometime from the publique view both of my friends and enemies and I appeale to all indifferent men to judge if I have not
just cause to free my selfe from the hands of those who change their principles with their condition and who are not asham'd openly to Intend the destruction of Nobility by taking away their negative voyce and with whom the Levellers Doctrine is rather countenanc't then punisht and for their Intentions to my person their charging and putting more strict Guards upon me with the discharging most of all those servants of mine who formerly they willingly admitted to waite on me doe sufficiently declare nor would I have this my retirement mis-interpreted for I shall earnestly and uncessantly endeavour these things for a safe well-grounded peace where ever I am or shall be and that as much as may be without the effusion of more Christian blood for which how many times have I desired yea prest to be heard yet no ear given me and can any reasonable man thinke that according to the ordinary course of affaires there can be a setled peace without it or that God will blesse those who refuse to heare their own King surely no. Nay I must further add that besides what concernes my selfe unlesse all other chiefe Interests have not onely a hearing but likewise just satisfaction given unto them to wit the Presbyterians Independents Army those who have adhered to me and even the Scots I say there cannot I speake not of miracles it being in my opinion a simple perswasion in such cases to expect or trust to them be a safe and lasting peace Now I cannot deny but that as my personall security is the urgent cause of my retirement so I call God to witnesse that the publique peace is no lesse before my eyes and I can finde no better way to expresse this my profession I know not what a wiser man can do then by desiring and urging that all chiefe Interests may be heard to the end each may have satisfaction as for example the Army for the rest though necessary yet I suppose are not difficult to content ought in my judgement to injoy the Liberty of their consciences and to have an act of oblivion and Indempnity which shall extend to all the rest of my Subjects and that all their arreares shall be speedily and duly payd this I will undertake to doe so I may be heard and that I may not be hindred from using such lawfull and honest meanes as I shall choose To conclude Let me be heard with freedome Honour and safety and I shall instantly breake through this cloud of retirement and shall shew my felfe ready-to be Pater Patriae Charles R. His absence struck all into amazement The Parliament order his neere attendance to be under restraint untill examination all the Sea-ports to be layd to prevent his Majesties Transportation They likewise Voted that whosoever shall conceale his Majesty shall forfeit Life and estate Every one was big with Expectation to know what was become of his Majesty On the 15 of October 1647. Information was brought to the House that his Majesty was safe at the Isle of Wight and had put himselfe into the protection of Colonell Hamond then Governour of the Island His Majesty told the Governour that there was a designe against his person which moved him to fly thither for safety The Lords and Commons were well satisfied with his Majesties being there and Order those servants that attended him at Hampton Court to attend him there On the 18 of November his Majesty sent a Letter to the Parliament and another to the Scotch Commissioners giving them to understand of his being as he apprehended in more safety there then at Hampton Court and doth professe his readinesse as to an agreement and though he cannot consent to alter the Government by Archbishops and Bishops neither as a Christian because Apostolicall nor as a King because at his Coronation he swore to maintaine this order yet he is willing to consent that their power be so limited that they be not grievous to tender Consciences For the sale of Church Lands he accounts it sacriledge that it subverts the Intent of the Donors discourages learning He is willing Presbytery be continued for three yeares provided those that cannot concur be not oblig'd and that a free debate be had with the Divines at Westminster and twenty that he shall appoint to resolve how Church Government hereafter shall be setled with full Liberty to all that differ yet without toleration of Popery Atheisme or blasphemy He is willing to put the Militia both by Sea and Land to be disposed of by his two Houses or who they shall appoint for his Reigne provided it returne to his Successors that it be limited to suppresse disturbance in this Kingdome and against forraine Invasion and that the power goe from his Majesty by Grant of Patent to those that act He is willing and consenting to the payment of the arreares of the Army and that he will undertake to raise 400000 l. in eightteen moneths and if that will not doe he is willing to give way for the sale of Forrest Lands and for payment of other debts his Majesty is willing to passe such an Act as both Houses shall consent to He is willing the Parliament doe choose privie Councellers during his Reigne provided they have their Pattent from him He is willing the Court of Wards be taken away provided there be a valuable consideration allow'd and that care may be had of his Children who were by that Court cared for And that the memory of these late sad distractions may be quite wiped away he is willing to Null all Oaths Declarations Proclamations against both or either Houses of Parliament or any Inditement against any for adhering to them And his Majesty offers as the best expedient an Act of oblivion to all his subjects And although his Majesty cannot in Honour and Justice make voyd all his Acts and Grants under his Seale since the 22 of May 1642. yet he doubts not but upon perusall to give full satisfaction to his two Houses in that And thus he conceives he hath satisfied all Interests for other things that may be propos'd to him from both Houses of Parliament on his part he moves earnestly for a personall Treaty at London all which being done he believes the Houses will thinke it reasonable to thinke of such Proposalls as were made by the Army touching the succession of Parliaments and their due Election For the Kingdome of Scotland he is ready to give satisfaction to what shall be propounded Not long after the Scots sent a Letter to the Parliament that they Regret that no answer is given to their Letter and that they are inform'd that Propositions are to be sent without allowing any competent time to consider They take notice of his Majesties being carried from Holmbey and his just cause of going from Hampton Court And in regard the Kingdome of Scotland are highly concern'd in the safety of his Majesties person and in duty bound to doe their best to
prevent his ruine they therefore desire his Majesty may come to London to treate with Honour freedome and safety and that neither he nor his Parliament be Inviron'd with Souldiers that so their consultations being free all differences may be ended by a personall Treaty the best way to settle a sure and lasting peace See the uncertainty of men in the world that those very Scots that had not long before declared that it was altogether Inconvenient for the Parliament to admit his Majesty to come to London untill he had given satisfaction to their just and reasonable desires should now desire the King to come to London which at that time swarm'd with Malignants apt for any tumult nay the Parliament it selfe at that time could not sit with safety without an Army to guard them On the 23 of November 1647. both Houses Voted not to have any personall Treaty with his Majesty Yet after three dayes debate in the House they conclude that foure Propositions be drawne up in forme of Acts to be sent to his Majesty to signe which when he had signed they would admit a personall Treaty at London The Propositions were as followeth 1. That a Bill may be past into an Act by his Majesty for setling the Militia of the Kingdome 2. A Bill be past by his Majesty calling in all his Declarations Oathes Proclamations against the Parliament and those that have adhered to them 3. To passe an Act that those Lords who were made after the Great Seale was carried to Oxford may be made uncapable of sitting in the House of Peeres thereby 4. That power may be given to the two Houses to adjurne as the two Houses of Parliament shall thinke fit On the 30 of November the King sent a Letter to the Generall and Army by Sir John Barkley desiring their furtherance of a personall treaty with a promise of Recompence when all should be setled To which answer was return'd that they had wholly left it to the Parliament and that they would be passive The Army sent a large Declaration to both Houses taxing them with neglect contrary to promise and laying forth the wants of the Army by reason they had not expedited their pay which must necessitate them to take free quarter and be burthensome to the subjects if not by them timely prevented His Majesty sent another Letter to the Lords wherein he expresseth himselfe that if any thing had been of more concernment then the peace of this Kingdome he would with patience have expected an answer to his former Letter but his tender affection to his subjects welfare hath prevalency with him to presse a personall Treaty and Intimates that if the Houses please that he come among them it will no doubt speed a good end The Lords and Commons according to their former order Vote the Lord Qenbigh and the Lord Mountague for the Upper House Mr Lisle Mr Goodwin Mr Kemp and Mr Bulncley for the Commons to carry the four Propositions to his Majesty which if he signe they will admit of a personall Treaty The Scots Commissioners likewise went to his Majesty and after some conference with him declare against the four Bills to this effect That they had endeavour'd by all wayes and meanes with the Parliament of England for the furthering of a happy peace but having seene the Propositions now brought to his Majesty they apprehend them to be prejudiciall to Religion the Crowne and the Vnion betwixt both Kingdomes and therefore in the name of the Kingdome of Scotland declare their dissent Colonell Hamond wrote a Letter to the Parliament that he could not secure his Majesty unlesse they would allow him more strength there being so great a concourse into the Isleland upon which the Commons order that his Majesties person be secured and more Forces be sent for the security of the Island The Commissioners return'd with a large Message from his Majesty shewing the Grounds and reasons why he cannot passe any thing till the whole Treaty be concluded on professing he is willing to give any reasonable satisfaction to whatsoever shall be requir'd He now againe earnestly presses for a personall Treaty of which he will not despaire there being no visible way left for the Kingdomes peace but by it However his Majesty is at peace and quietnesse within himselfe in having fulfild the offices both of a Christian and a King and will patiently waite the good pleasure of Almightie God to incline the hearts of his two Houses to consider their King and compassionate their fellow subjects miseries It s very observable that his Majesty received the Parliaments Commissioners very gratefully desiring them all to be assistants to him in promoting a wel = grounded peace the expression he said was theirs but it was a very good one he tould them there were many Interests to be considered of Viz. the Parliament Army and Scots he desir'd all might be considered but when he was inform'd of a dissenting Declaration of the Scots he tould them he was very sorry for it and he hoped they might agree in the maine though they might differ in circumstances His Majesty deliver'd his Message to the Commissioners open with Injunction to keep it secret till they had deliver'd it to the Parliament There hapned a tumult at Newport in the Isle of Wight diverse declaring for the King and one Captain Burleigh caused a drum to be beaten up for the service of his Majesty the Mayor and others that came to his assistance fell upon them disperst them took the Captain who was afterwards executed This tumult caused the Governour of the Island immediately to discharge all such as had ayded and assisted his Majesty in the late War against the Parliament Munday the third of January 1657. The Commons tok into consideration his Majesties Message and finding the same as it appeares to them not satisfactory nor that he hath any Inclination to a composure it was put to the Question Whether any addresses should be made hereafter after many houres debate it was Resolv'd That 1. No addresses shall hereafter be made to him by the Parliament of England 2. That none shall on paine of Treason make any addresse without leave from the Parliament 3. That no written Paper Message or Declaration be received from his Majesty on penalty of Treason They likewise Vote that Colonel Hamond and Sir William Constable shall have power to displace any man from his Majesty whom they shall thinke fit Immediately they take care for the managing of the affaires of the Kingdome by compleating the Committee of Darby-House who were to transact the whole businesse of the Kingdome they Vote the Earle of Kent in the roome of the Earle of Essex who was dead Mr Nathaniell Fines and Mr John Evelin in the roomes of Sir Philip Stapleton dead and Mr Glin who was sequestred the House Sir William Waller was continued The Committee being compleated were 21 in number Viz. the Lord of Northumberland Earle of Kent
safety of the City and that Major Generall Skippon be appointed Major Generall for the City and all the Forces within the late Lines of Communication with resolutions to adhere to them according to the Covenant Immediately the Houses approved of Major Generall Skippon and orderd him to put the Militia in Execution and the Posts and Chaines to be set up as formerly They likewise Voted all the Members that had not taken the Covenant to take it On the 28 of Aprill the Commons proceeded in setling the Kingdome and Voted that they would endeavour to continue the Government by King Lords and Commons and that they might have Liberty to debate such Votes as had past concerning the King they likewise Voted that the Propositions presented to his Majesty at Hampton Court were subject matter for a settlement The second of May the Generall sent a Letter to the Parliament approving of the Cities choice in Electing Major Generall Skippon Major Generall for the City and finding the City desirous of the Armyes removall from them had sent an order for Colonell Barksted to draw his Regiment out of White Hall and Colonell Rich to draw off his Regiment from the Mews He likewise desir'd them that they would provide a Guard for themselves The Common Councell of the City Order 600 l. per Annum for their Major Generall and a Guard for the Parliament that so the Army might draw off A considerable party of Scots and English surpriz'd Barwick The manner thus The party that came was much about an hundred with swords drawne and pistolls Cockt entred the Towne on the South side as soone as they had past the bridge they drew it up seaze on the Mayor and all other eminent persons Drums were likewise beaten up in Colchester and severall Townes in Suffolke for the service of his Majesty On the third of May Letters were brought by Colonell Marshall to both Houses from the Parliament of Scotland giving them to understand their results concerning England and withall that he had but fifteen dayes time allotted him to stay for an Answer The Heads of the Scots Declaration were these That his Majesty may come to London or some of his Houses neere and that with safety That Reparation be made for his carrying away or satisfaction by punishing them that did it That the Army under the Lord Fairfax be disbanded That Presbytery be setled Sectaries punisht That all Members of the House be restored The same day the Commons Consulted whether they should in the settlement of the Kingdome take in the Scots or not or whether to make addresses to his Majesty againe or not May the fourth came above a thousand Petitioners on Horseback and neere as many more on foote out of Essex to Petition the Parliament for a personall Treaty with the King and to expedite a course for the satisfaction of the Army and their disbanding The Lords returne Answer that they will seriously consider of their Petition and the Commons take notice of their good affection to the Parliament desiring them to returne and to satisfie their Country May the fift The Commons agreed first that they will keep their Covenant and Treaty with the Kingdome of Scotland Secondly That they will be ready to Joyne with the Kingdome of Scotland upon the Propositions agreed to be sent to his Majesty at Hampton Court And that a Letter should be sent to the Parliament of Scotland about the surprize of Barwick by some that were enemies to both Kingdomes They likewise ordered the seven Northerne counties be put into a posture of defence and that the Committee of Darby-House take care to pay them At a Councell of War at Windsor it was orderd that Lieutenant Generall Cromwell goe to Wales to suppresse Poyer and Langhorne others for the security of the North with what strength they could Colonell Horton sent a Letter of the defeate of the Welsh Army consisting of 8000 foote and 400 Horse who being terrified with the news of Lieutenant Generall Cromwells coming Resolv'd to fight Horton which he nothing more desired they fell upon him but he soone Routed them took 1500 Officers 3000 Common Souldiers for which a day of thankesgiving is appointed On the 16 of May diverse hundreds came out of Surrey with a Petition much in the same nature with that of Essex some bickering hapned betwixt the Country-men and Souldiers in so much that from words they came to blowes and some of the Coutry-men were kild The Scots goe on amaine to raise their Army Duke Hamilton a selfish unfortunate man is made Generall Generall Lesley is contented with a pension and willing to be quiet The Earle of Callendar Lieutenant Generall Their Levies goe on amaine they have orderd forty dayes pay at their Generall Randevouz In the meane time Sir Marmaduke Langdale with a small body of Horse goes on the Scotch side of Tweed to Carlile to raise men in expectation to joyne with Sir Philip Musgrave his forces in Cumberland and Westmerland who being well respected the Country flockt to him amaine And now the Kings party began to swell big with expectation not looking upon themselves as vanquished but rather Conquerors The Southerne part of the Kingdome was not free from Insurrections for news was brought to the Parliament that 600 disaffected persons had seazed and secured Rochester possest themselves of the City planted Ordnance on the bridge and compeld all that came to signe their Petition and increased to the number of 10000. The City of London was likewise backward in raising a Guard for the Parliament to relieve the two Regiments which the Generall then wanted In Cornwall likewise were insurrections and diverse disaffected were landed Sir Hardresse Waller sent a party of Horse and foote to subdue them The Commons Vote that if his Majesty will grant the Militia settle Religion and Recall all Proclamations and Declarations they will Treat with him Diverse forces orderd Northward were cald back to suppresse the Kentish Insurrection Chepstow Castle was retaken by Colonell Ewer Sir Thomas Glenham had seazed on Carlile for the King and Sir Marmaduke Langdale was come as far as Appleby with a formidable Army Major General Lambert marcht up and down to prevent him from Injuring the Country The Generall musters his Army at Hounslow heath he sends a party round by Sussex to relieve Dover Castle then besieged by the Kentish men He with the rest marcht into Kent severall small skirmishes hapned betwixt both partyes he comes to Maidstone which he found to be stoutly man'd well provided with Ordinance and barracadoed and the Enemy drawne up into a body it was thought unconvenient to ingage the body and leave the Towne unattempted in which were the most resolute persons A party of old Souldiers were drawne out to face the Towne whilst the body was drawne up ready to receive the Enemy The old Souldiers assaulted the Towne by seven at night where they met with men of like Resolution there being
the stoutest men of the Enemies Army Apprentices and Seamen and such as had been in Armes for the King The fight continued for six houres they valiantly disputed in every streete at last the Towne is taken with the loss of sixty men in it were taken 1300 prisoners diverse of quality 400 Horse eight pieces of Ordinance with good store of booty The Generall shewed personall Valour by Charging in his slippers Many of the Kentish forces march over Rotchester bridge toward London where on Black heath they muster a considerable Army whither many apprentices and resolute persons repaire under the Command of old Goring The Essex men had by this time secured the Committee men and sent to require an answer to their Petition to which the Parliament speedily send an answer The Sea-men likewise Revolt and refuse to receive the Earle of Warwick but upon their own tearmes they likewise sent Vice-Admirall Rainsborough on shoare and unanimously declare for the King Whilst the Earle of Warwick shews his affection for the Parliament his brother the Earle of Holland unfortunately riseth in armes with the Duke of Buckingham and the Lord Francis who with 500 Horse at Kingston take the advantage of the Armyes dividing But by the care and industry of Sir Miles Livesey who fell on them they were put to flight The Lord Francis refusing quarter was kild Major Dalbere and diverse others were kild the Earle of Holland fled to St Needs where he was totally subdued and taken by Colonell Scroope and immediately sent prisoner to Warwick Castle While the Essex men were requiring an act of Indempnity Sir Charles Lucas was come to Chensford with a party of 2000 Horse and foote Colonell Whaly was orderd to goe against them Those with Goring being denied a passage over London bridge come over on Essex side secure Bow bridge with a small party whilst the rest march further into the County Sir John Owen in North-Wales endeavours to raise forces for the King which the Sheriffe of a County Indeavoured to impede but being too weake was taken prisoner and his party supprest a second time severall partyes well affected to the Parliament joyne together and with contrary successe to the former fell upon Sir John Owen tooke him prisoner and totally disperst his forces Pomfret castle is likewise surprized by one Morrice The Generall spared what forces he could over into Essex with the assistance of the well affected of the County who pursued the Enemy till they came to Colehester which Towne they closely begirt but diverse times sallyes were made out to fetch in provisions The Lieutenant Generall having laine long before Pembrooke Castle and hearing of the Scots on their March for England and the Report of the Prince Duke of York being at Sea thought fit to give Conditions to Poyer and Langhorne for the delivering up of the Towne and Castle that thereby he might have Liberty to advance Northwards which Conditions were accepted And to say truth as things then stood it was of a considerable value as to the service of the Parliament On the 13 of July Marquesse Hamilton enterd England with an Army of 9000 Horse and foote the Generality of the people of Scotland were wholly averse to it the Ministers every where exclaiming against the Duke The Duke immediately sent a Letter to Lieutenant Generall Lambert of the Grounds and Motives of their coming into England which the Lieutenant Generall as speedily answer'd The Parliament immediately Vote that those Scots that enter England in a Hostill way with authority of Parliament are enemies to the Kingdome of England and shall be proceeded against as such July the 17. the Commons debate to what place his Majesty shall come and concluded the King name three places two whereof within twenty miles of London and one within ten and the Parliament to make choice of one of the three Mr Ashurst comes from Scotland with a Declaration of the Councell of Estate in which they declare that they were Invited in upon which the Parliament Vote all those hat Invited them in to be traytors On the 18 of July the Commons consider'd of a personall treaty with his Majesty and having duly weighed all the Inconveniences that might arise by his Majesties coming to London and duly considerd all the objections against his Majesties granting the three Propositions before the Treaty they resolv'd that the Treaty should be in the Isle of Wight and that it be with Honour freedome and safety they appointed a Committee to consider of time manner and place July 30 they Vote to send to his Majesty to nominate a place in the Island to trat in two of the Commons were orderd to goe to his Majesty to that purpose They likewise order the Earle of Warwick to fight with the Revolted ships notwithstanding their specious Declaration Information was brought to the Parliament that Colonel Bourton Governour of Scarborough Castle had declar'd for the King Major Huntington left the Army having taken distast at the proceedings of some Grandees The Prince from aboard in the Downs sent a Letter to the Speaker of the House of Peeres relating to a Treaty with his Majesty and diverse other particulars which was laid aside On the same day a Petition was presented from the Court of Aldermen and Common Councell of the City of London for a personall Treaty his Majesty to be freed of his restraint Church Government to be setled according to the Covenant all Acts of Hostility to sease to which the Commons promised a speedy and satisfactory answer Lieutenant Generall Cromwell being joyn'd with Lambert their force is 5000 Horse and Dragoones and 7000 foote he sent a Letter to the House giving them an account of his proceedings with a returne of thanks for their care in providing for his Army Tinmouth Castle Revolted but was suddenly retaken The Lieutenant Generall immediately marches to Pomsret assaulted the Towne with much Resolution kild thirty and took an hundred prisoners The Lorch of Middlesex return'd from his Malesty with his answer which was to this effect That if the peace of his Dominions were not dearer to him then any Inlerest he had too much reason to take notice of severall Votes that past against him with his sad condition seven moneths together and sets down what soever he conceives is necessary to so blessed a worke professing he can no more treat in this condition then a blind man judge of colours or that he can run a race whose foote is tyed and therefore desires the recalling of those Votes that bar mean from coming to him and that all that he shall send for for necessary use may have leave to come unto him and waite on him in this treaty the place Newport and that he may be in the same condition that he was in at Hampton Court conceiving he cannot treat in honour so long as men are afraid to come to him for safety he mentions not as not fearing his person