A COPY of the LETTER FROM His Excellency the Lord General CROMWELL, SENT TO THE MEMBERS OF PARLIAMENT. Called to take upon them the Trust of the Government of this Commonwealth. WHICH Began on Monday the Fourth of June, 1653. The day appointed by the Letters of Summons from his Excellency the Lord Gen. Cromwell, for the meeting of these GENTLEMEN. With the several Transactions since that time. LONDON: Printed by M. S. for Tho: Jenner at the South-entrance of the Royal Exchange. 1656 A COPY of the LETTER From his Exccellency the Lord General Cromwell, sent to the Members of Parliament, called to take upon them the Trust of the Government of this Commonwealth. FOrasmuch as upon the dissolution of the late Parliament, it became necessary that the Peace, Safety and Government of this Commonwealth should be provided for; and in order thereunto, divers persons fearing God, and of approved fidelity and honesty, are by myself, with the advice of My Counsel of Officers nominated, to whom the Charge and Trust of so weighty Affairs is to be committed. And having good assurance of your love to, and courage for God, and the interest of his Cause, and of the good people of this Commonwealth, I Oliver Cromwell, Captain General, and Commander in Chief of all the Armies and Forces raised and to be raised within this Commonwealth, do hereby summon and require you, being one of the persons nominated, personally to be, and appear at the Counsel Chamber commonly known, or called by the name of the Council Chamber at White Hall, within the City of Westminster, upon the fourth day of July next, ensuing the date hereof, then and there to take upon you the said Trust, unto which you are hereby called, and appointed to serve as a Member for the County of— And hereof you are not to fail. Given under My hand and seal the— day of June, 1653. O: CROMWELL. Monday, June 4. 1653. This being the day appointed by the Letters of S●mmons, from his Excellency the Lord General Cromwell, for the meeting of those Gentlemen that were called to the Supreme Authority, they met accordingly in the Council Chamber, where being entered the Room, above one hundred and twenty in number, and being set round about the Table, the Lord General standing by the window opposite to the middle of the Table and having as many of the Army-Officers as the room could well contain, on his right hand and on his left, his Lordship made a very grave Christian and seasonable speech and Exhortation, wherein he briefly recounted the many great and wondrous mercies of God towards this Nation, and the Series of providence wherein the presence of God did wonderfully appear in carrying on this Cause, and bringing affairs into the present condition, beyond all expectation; ascribing the glory of all to God alone. He set forth also in particular the progress of affairs since the famous victory at Worcester, wherein that Arch Enemy of this nation was wholly subdued. He likewise laid down the actings of the Army there upon, after divers applications to the Parliament, and much being wanting, and forbearance, together with the grounds and necessity of their dissolving the said Parliament, which his Excellency declared to be for the presevation of this Cause, and the interest of all honest men who have been engaged therein. Moreover, he very amply held forth the clearness of the Call given to the present Members to take the Supreme Authority, and did from the Scriptures exhort them to their duties and encourage them therein, desiring that a tenderness might be used towards all godly and conscientious persons, of what judgement and under what form soever. Which being ended, his Lordship produced an instrument under his own hand and seal, whereby he did with the advice of his Officer, devolve and entrust the Supreme Authority and Government of this Commonwealth, into the hands of the persons then met, who or any forty of them are to be held and acknowledged the Supreme Authority of the Nation, unto whom all persons within the same, and the Territories thereunto belonging are to yield obedience and subjection. And they are not to sit longer than the 3 day of November, 1654. Three months before their dissolution they are to make choice of other persons to succeed them, who are not to sit longer than a twelve month; but it is left to them to take care for a succession in Government: which Instrument being delivered to the persons aforesaid, his Lordship commended them to the Grace of God. This being done his Excellency and his Officers withdrew; and the said persons so met, having the Supreme Authority put into their hands, after some short space, adjourned till the next morning eight a clock, and appointed to meet in the old Parliament House there to seek God for direction in this great work, and for his presence and blessing therein. Hereupon, without doing any further business, they all departed. The Names of the Members of Parliament, which began June 4. 1653. With the respective Counties for which they serve. depiction of Parliament Berks. SAmuell Dunch Vincent Goddard Thomas Wood Bedford. Nathaniel Taylor Edward Cater Edward Cater Buckingham. George Fleetwood George Baldwin Cambridge. John Sadler Thomas French Robert Castle Samuel Warner Chester. Robert Duckenfield Henry Birkinhead Four Northern Counties. Charles Howard Robert Fenwick Henry Dawson Henry Ogle Cornwall Robert Bennet Francis Langdon Anthony Rous John Bawden Derby. Jervas' Bennet Nathanael Barton Devon. George Monk, one of the Generals at Sea. John Carew Thomas Sanders Christopher Martin James Erisey Francis Rous Richard Swe●● Dorcet. William Sydenham John Bingham Essex. Joachim Matthews Henry Barington John Brewster Christopher Earl Dudley Templer Goucester. John Crofts William Nest Robert Holmes Southampton. Richard Norton Richard Major John Hyldesley Hertford. Henry Lawrance William Reeve Hereford. Wroth Rogers John Herring Huntingdon. Edward Montague Stephen Phesaunt Kent. Lord Viscount Lisle. Thomas Blount William Kenrick William Cullen Andrew Broughton Lancaster. William West John Sawrey Robert Cunl ffe Leicester. Henry Danvers Edward Smith John Prat Lincoln Sir William Brownelow Richard Cust Barn●by Bowtell Humphrey Walcot William Thompson Middlesex Sir Willam Roberts Augustine Wingfield Arthur Squib Monmouth Philip Jones Northampton Sir Gilbert Pickering Thomas Brook Norfolk. Robert Jermy Tobias Fecets Ralph Walmer Henry King Willam Burton Nottingham John Oddingsels Edward Chid Oxon Sir Charles Wolsley William Draper Dr. Jonathan Goddard Rutland. Edward Horseman Salop. William Botterel Thomas Baker Stafford. George Bellit John Chetwood Suffolk. Jacob Caley Francis Brewster Robert Dunkon John Clark Edward Plumstead Somerset. Robert Blake, one of the Generals at Sea. John Pine Dennis Hollister Henry Henly Surrey. Samuel Hickland Laurence March Sussex. Anthoney Stapley William Spence nathanael Studely Warwick. John St. Nicholas Richard Lucy Wilts. Sir Anthony Ashley Cooper Nicholas Greene Thomas Eyre Worcester. Richard Salway John James York. George Lord Evr● Walter Strikland Francis Lassols john Anlaby Thomas Dickenson Thomas St. Nicholas Roger Coats Edward Gill London. Robert Tichborn John Ireton Samuel Moyer John Langley John Stone Henry Barton Praise-God Barbove Wales. Bushy Mansel James Philip's John Williams Hugh Courtney Richard Price John Brown Scotland. Sir James Hope Alex: Bredy John Swinton Will: Lockart Alex. Jefferies Ireland. Sir Robert King Col. John Hewson Col. Henry Cromwell Col. John Clark Daniel Hutchinson Vincent Gookyn Called in by the Parliament since they sat. Lord Gen: Cromwell Maj. Gen. Lambert Maj. Gen. Harrison Maj. Gen. Desborough Col. Mat. Tomlinson. Council of State. THe Lord General. Maj. Gen. Desbrow. Maj. Gen. Harrison Mr. Major Col. Sydenham Sir Anthoney Ashley Cooper Ald. Tichbourne Sir. Charles Wolsley Sir. Gilbert Pickering Mr. Carew Col. Jones Lord Viscount Lisle Mr. Laurence Col. Montague Mr. Strickland Cap. Howard The Lord Eyre Sir William Roberts Mr. Sadler Sir Robert King Col. Henry Cromwell Dr. Goddard Col. Barton Sir William Brownlow Cap. Stone Col. George Fleetwood Col. James Mr. Anlaby Mr. Bennet Col. Rous Col. Bingham. An ACT Declaring what Offences shall be adjudged Treason. BE it Enacted by this present Parliament, and by the Authority of the same, That if any person shall maliciously or advisedly publish by writing, Printing, or openly declaring that the said Government is Tyrannical, usurped, or unlawful; Or that the Commons in Parliament assembled are not the supreme Authority of this Nation, or shall plot, contrive or endeavour to stir up or raise force against the present Government, or for the subversion or alteration of the same, and shall declare the same by an open deed, that then every such offence shall be taken, deemed and adjudged by Authority of this Parliament to be high Treason. That if any person shall maliciously and advisedly plot or endeavour the subversion of the said Keepers of the Liberties of England, or the Council of State, and the same shall declare by an open deed, or shall move any person or persons for the doing thereof, or stir up the people to rise against them, or either of them, they or either of their Authorityes, every such offence shall be taken, deemed, and declared to be high Treason. If any person not being an Officer, Soldier, or member of the Army, shall plot, contrive, or endeavour to stir up any mutiny in the said Army, or withdraw any Soldiers or Officers from their obedience to their Superior Officers, or from the present Government as aforesaid, or shall procure, invite, aid, or assist any Foreigners or strangers to invade England or Ireland, or shall adhere to any Forces raised by the Enemies of the Parliament, Commonwealth, or Ke●per; of the Liberties of England, or if any person shall counterfeit the Great Seal of England for the time being, used and appointed by Authority of Parliament, every such offence shall be taken to be high Treason, and also forfeit unto the use of the Commonwealth, all and singular his or their Lands, Tenements, and Heriditaments, Goods and Chattels: Provided always that no persons shall be indicted and arraigned for any of the Offences mentioned in this Act, unless such Offenders shall be indicted or prosecuted for the same within one year after the Offence committed. That if any person shall counterfeit the money of this Commonwealth, or shall bring any false money into this Land, counterfeit or other like to the money of this Commonwealth, knowing the money to be false, to merchandise or make payment, in deceit of the people of this Nation: Or if any person shall hereafter falsely forge and counterfeit any such kind of Coin of Gold or Silver, as is not the proper Coin of this Commonwealth, and is or shall be currant within this Nation by consent of the Parliament, or such as shall be by them authorized thereunto: Or shall bring from the parts beyond the Seas into this Commonwealth, or into any the dominions of the same, any such false and counterfeit Coin of money being currant within the same as is above said, knowing the same to be false, to the intent to offer or make payment by merchandise or otherwise, or shall impair, diminish, falsify, clip, wash, round, file, scale, or lighten for wicked lucre or gains sake, any the proper moneys of this Commonwealth, or any other Realm; allowed and suffered to be currant: All such Offences adjudged high Treason, their counsellors, procurers, aiders and abettors being convicted shall suffer pains of death. It shall not extend to or be adjudged to make any corruption of blood to any of the Heirs, or to make the wife to forfeit her Dour, or her title, action, or interest in the same. July 17. 1649. A Relation of the Mutiny on Tuesday the 22 of Nov: 1653. in the New Exchange, of the Portugal Ambassadors Followers, etc. THis night was a great Mutiny at the New Exchange in the Strand, such as hath scarce ever been the like: The business upon the best information that I can have from those who were present in part of the business, and have conferred with others upon the whole, is this. On Monday night (which was the night before) three of the Portugal Ambassadors family, whereof his brother was one, being at the New Exchange, they talking in French spoke of such discourse of Transactions of some English Affairs, which Col. Gerhard, Sir Gilbert Gerhards' brother, understanding the French Tongue, hearing, told them very civilly, that they did not represent the stories they spoke of right; whereupon one of the portugals gave him the lie, upon that they began to justle, and all three fell upon Col. Gerhard, and threw him down, and got upon him, but though he be but a little man, yet he threw him off that was upon him, and so was bustling with him a good while; there were some Gentlemen there, but knew not who it was they so assaulted, and so ne'er meddled with them, and yet one of the portugals with his Dagger stabbed Col. Gerhard in the shoulder, and hurt him sore; but afterwards Mr. Anfrazer spoke to the portugals, that it was not civil nor handsome for so many to fall upon one, three to one being very unequal, and endeavoured to pull one of them off, and so to persuade them to cease, and thereby he came to see who it was they had assaulted, who finding it to be Col. Gerhard which he knew well, and seeing them still pursue their rage upon him, he drew to relieve him, and after some bustle the portugals went away, one of them having a cut upon his cheek; and that night afterwards near twenty of their Attendants came to the Exchange, and would have quarrelled with any body, and some cuffing there was by some, but not much more that night, for it was late, and they returned home. On Tuesday night, came about fifty of the portugals again to the New Exchange, of which number were the Ambassador's brother, and two Knights of Malta, and they were led on by a Portugal in Buffe, whom they call Captain, one well known to some in the Exchange, and they had generally double Arms, all or most part of them swords and pistols, and coats of Male, or Armour, some one thing, some another, to preserve their bodies from swords entering upon them. They had also two or three Coaches that brought Ammunition, in which were hand Granades and Bottles, and some little barrels of powder, and bullets, and other necessaries if occasion was. They had also some Boats ready to attend them at the water side, if occasion was for them also. Thus they came with a resolution to fall upon every English Gentleman they should find in or about the Exchange; and entering in with this equipage the people were exceedingly frighted. For first came in the Captain in the Buff, who led them, and after him the Portugal Ambassadors brother, and the Knights of Malta, and so the rest, all with drawn swords, and in so furious a posture, as if they intended to kill every body they met with, that stood before them. Hereupon the people fled into the shops in the Exchange to shelter themselves, and all that did not so they fell upon, though no man gave them the least affront, yet they pistoled and cut, and wounded many. Mr. Greneway a Gentleman of Gray's Inn, Son to the Lady Greneway was there with his Sister and a Gentlewoman whom he was to have married, who desired them two to sta●d up in a shop where he saw them safe, and they would have had him to have stayed with them, but he said he would only go see what was the matter; but he was no sooner parted from them, but immediately the word being given by the Portugal Captain in Buff●, which was Safa, which was the word when they were to fall on, without any affront offered towards them, one of them pistoled him, and shot him in the head, and he is dead of his wounds: and many others t●ey have dangerously wounded. Col. Mayo had twelve upon him at once, yet drew his sword, and fought with them as long as he was able to hold his sword in his hand, which being cut, he was forced to let his sword fall, and then cut and wounded him in many places. Mr. Tho: Howard, Mr. Carter, and divers others were wounded passing by. The Horse at the Muse had taken alarm before they returned, and returning home, passing by the Muse, some of the Horse moving towards them, some of them discharged pistols towards the Horse, and the rest run home to the Ambassador's house; but the Horse guards took some of them and carried them into the Muse, and sent word thereof to the Lord General; and a party of horse pursued them, and beset the Ambassadors house. And Commis. Gen. whaley sent into the Ambassador, acquainted him with this horrible attempt and bloody murder of his Followers, and shown him his men they had taken prisoners, and required the chief of the rest of them to be delivered in the hands of Justice, which the Ambassador was loath to do. But seeing he could not baffle them, to stop the course of justce in so horrible a bloody business as that had been, he delivered up his brother and one of the Knights of Malta, and some others, such as they had then information was chief, and promised to secure the rest to be forthcoming any of them when they should be demanded. After which the Ambassador made his Address to the Lord General, and chief for his brother, but his Excellency told him that it did concern the public, and therefore his Addresses must be to the Parliament and Council of State. It is such a horrible business that his Excellency would not meddle with him in it. The Portugals that are in custody are prisoners at Jameses, and the business is under Examination before the Council of State. For his Highness the Lord Protector of the Commonwealth of England, Scotland, and Ireland. The Declaration, with the humble Address of the Generals, and the several Commanders present in the Fleet, by them severally subscribed. THat these Nations of England, Scotland, and Ireland, having been for some years like the Bush which burned, but is not consumed: And though the Nations round about us stand gazing on to see us made a desolation, as well as a hissing unto them; yet we are hitherto by the mighty power of the Lord, and his wonderful out-going amongst us, made rather an astonishment in our preservation, than a reproach, by our ruin and devastation. In which great Work of the Lord we acknowledge with thankfulness your Highness hath been a glorious Instrument, and hath undergone many hardships and hazard of all that was near and dear unto you, even to life itself; and understanding by providence your Highness is entrusted with, and hath excepted of the Protection of this Commonwealth in the Government thereof. We are in hopes that the Lord intends a settlement of Peace to these poor distracted Nations, and that ourselves with all the people of the Lord shall enjoy and partake of the same under your Highness' Protection, according to the Rule of the Lord Jesus. And therefore we have thought it necessary as a duty incumbent on us, to Declare that we shall willingly be obedient and faithful to your Highness, in performance of your great Trust, and also in the utmost hazard of our lives (with what else is near and dear unto us) be serviceable unto you, in the station the Lord hath placed you, against yours and the Commonwealth's Enemies, in our several places and capacities, during our Employments. And having had good testimony of your great affection and earning bowels after the weal of God's people, we are emboldened an●●ncouraged in all humility to make this following Address. That your ●●●hnesse will be pleased to have a more special eye of fa●●●● unto them above all others, in regard they are near and dear unto him, who is the Lord of Lords, and King of Kings, even our Lord Jesus For which cause he is ashamed to call them brethren; And do humbly apprehend that their privileges will be your privilege. And to account of them as of your greatest Jewels, which will doubtless turn to your great advantage. And hereby you will for time to come not only engage their hearts unto you, who in times past have not stood at a distance from you, but your Highness will also engage the great Jehovah, your and their Father, to be be a refuge, shield, and defence unto you, as well as an everlasting rest for you, when all the storms of this Commonwealth shall cease, which is and shall be the unfeigned prayers of, Your Highness' most humble and faithful Servants. Signed by the Generals and the several Commanders present in the Fleet. Monday Dec. 12. 1653. It being moved, That the sitting of this Parliament was not for the peace of the Commonwealth; and that therefore it was requisite to deliver up unto the Lord General Cromwell the powers which they received from him; and seconded by several other Members, and the Speaker with many of the Members departed to Whitehall, being the greater number, and did by a writing under their hands resign unto his Excellency their said powers. Saturday, Decemb. 10. 1653. The Parliament this day resumed the Debate upon the Report made this day from the Committee of Tithes, which is as follows. 1. That it be represented to the Parliament as the best way for ejecting ignorant, profane, and scandalous Ministers; That Commissioners be sent from hence into all the Counties, divided into six Circuits (besides London and Middlesex) three Commissioners into each Circuit, to join with four or six in every County (and each riding in Yorkshire to be as a County) and that in every County the said persons or five of them (two of the Commissioners sent from hence being always present) be empowered to eject all Ministers (of that County) that are not of good behaviour, and holy in conversation, or that are not apt and able to teach, or in teaching hold not forth the faithful word, or be not diligent, or labour not in the word and doctrine; or be greedy of filthy lucre: And be also empowered to settle godly and able persons to preach the Gospel in all void places, and to unite two or three Parishes together, so that none be above three miles from the public Meeting-place. 2. That it be presented to the Parliament That Dr. Arrowsmith, Col. G●ffe, Maj. Haines, Mr. John Owen, Mr. Thomas Goodwin, Mr. Ben of D●rchester, Mr. Fairclough the elder, Mr. Lockier, Mr. Caryl, Mr. Stephen Martial, Mr. Worthington, Mr. Turner, Mr. Tomes, Mr. Martin Holbech, Mr. Cradocke, Mr. Jessey, Mr. Arthur Barnidston, Mr. William Greenhill. Col. Campfield, Mr. Dyke, Mr. Stalham, may be sent Commissioners by three in a circuit for ejecting and settling Ministers, according to the Rules prescribed. 3. That all such as are or shall be approved for public Preachers of the Gospel in the public meeting-places, shall have and enjoy the maintenance already settled by Law, and such other encouragement as the Parliament hath already appointed, or hereafter shall appoint: And that where any scruple payment of Tithes, the three next Justices of the Peace, or two of them shall upon complaints call the parties concerned before them, and by the Oaths of witnesses, shall duly apportion the value of the said Tithes, to be paid either in money or Land, by them to be set out according to the said value, to be held and enjoyed by him that was to have the said Tithes; and in case such approved value be not duly paid or enjoyed according to the Order of the said Justices; the Tithes shall be paid in kind, and shall be recovered in any Court of Record. 4. That upon hearing and considering what hath been offered to the Committee touching propriety in Tithes, of Incumbents, Rectors, Possessors of Donatives, or propriate Tithes. It is the opinion of this , and resolved to be reported to the Parliament, that the said persons have a legal propriety in Tithes. The House having spent several days in debate of the whole Report, and especially of the first of the four parts thereof; and the Question being put, That this House doth agree with the first clause of the Report, it passed in the Negative. Monday, Decemb. 12. 1653. It being moved in the House this day, That the sitting of this Parliament any longer as now constituted, will not be for the good of the Commonwealth; and that therefore it was requisite to deliver up unto the Lord General Cromwell the powers which they received from him; and that motion being seconded by several other members, the House risen, and the Speaker with many of the members of the House, departed out of the House to Whitehall, where they, being the greater number of the members sitting in Parliament, did by a writing under their hands resign to his Excellency their said Powers, and Master Speaker, attended with the Members, did present the same to his Excellency accordingly. His Excellency the Lord General Cromwell and his Council of Officers met this day, at which meeting, after a most excellent, wise, gracious, and pious Speech made by his Excellency, full of Religion towards God, prudence towards the State, and love and care towards this distracted Nation, some things were transacted in order to a settlement, and sweet composure; the union of all that fear the Lord is much desired, that so we may sit down comfortably under a safe and well grounded peace. The late Parliament having upon their Dissolution delivered up the power which they received from his Excellency at their first sitting by a writing under their Hands and Seals: his Excellency thereupon called a Council of Officers, and advised with other persons of intererest in the Nation, how this great burden of Governing England, Scotland, and Ireland, with the Armies therein, and Navies at Sea, should be born, and by whom; who after several days seeking of God, and advising therein, it was Resolved, That a Council of godly able and discreet persons should be named consisting of twenty one: And that his Excellency should be chosen Lord Protector of the three Nations. And on Friday last his Excellency came down to West: and was instolled Lord Protector of the three Nations, the manner whereof was thus. Decemb. 18. His Excellency the Lord General Cromwell about one of the cock in the afternoon, went from Whitehall to Westminster in his Coach, foot Soldiers being on both sides the streets all along, and in the Palace at Westminster were many Soldiers both Horse and Foot; his Excellency was attended by the Lords Commissioners of the Great Seal of England, the Judges and Barons of the several Benches in their Robes, and after them the Council of the Commonwealth: And the Lord Mayor and Aldermen of the City of London, in their Scarlet Gowns, with the Recorder and Town-Clerk, all in their Coaches, who passed before his Excellency: and last of all came his Excellency in a black Suit and Cloak in his Coach, with his Lifeguard, and divers bare before him; and many of the chief Officers of the Army with their Cloaks, and Swords, and Hats on, passed on foot before and about his Coach. In this equipage his Excellency, and Attendants came to Westminsterhall, where was a Chair placed in the High Court of Chancery; where being come, the Lords Commissioners of the Great Seal of England stood next to the Chair, the one on the one side, and the other on the other side, and next to the Lord Commissioner Lisle who stood on the left hand of the Chair, stood his Excellency (all being bare, and his Excellency also) on every side of the Chair; in the next place stood all the Judges and Barons on both sides; and the Lord Mayor & Aldermen on the right side of the Court, next unto the Judges and the Council, and the chief Officers of the Army on the left side of the Court. The Rules for this New Government were then read, which consist of many particulars, expressed in an Instrument; the Instrument is large, which took up above half an hours reading, and was read by Mr. Jesop, one of the Secretaries of the Council. After which, the Lord Commissioner Lisle read a Parchment in the nature of an Oath, to engage his Excellency to perform on his part, according to the Government before mentioned; During which t●me his Excellency held up his hand, and having beard it read accepted thereof, and subscribed thereto in the face of the Court. Then the Lords Commissioners of the Great Seal, and the Judges, etc. invited him to take possession of the Chair, as Lord Protector of England, Scotland, and Ireland, which he did, and sat down with his head covered, the Court continuing all bare. The Lord Commissioners delivered up to his Highness, the Purse and Seals, and the Lord Mayor of London his Sword, which were presently delivered to them back again by his Highness; and then after a salute, the Court rose. First came the Aldermen and Council before his Highness, from the Court to Westminster-hall Gate, where the Coaches were; after them the Judges, than came the Commissioners of the Great Seal, one of them bearing the Purse and Seals; and before his Highness' ca●e the Lifeguard than four Sergeants of Arms with their Maces, one being the Mace of the City of London, the second of the Chancery, the third of the Council, and the other of the Parliament, born by the sword bearer of London, Sergeant Middleton, Sergeant Dendy, and Sergeant Berkehead; and the Lord Mayor of the City of London went before his Highness with the Sword, and the Officers of the Army about his person; and in the Palace they took Coach at the Hall Gate, and returned to Whitehall in the same equipage they went; the Lord Mayor rid bare with the Sword in the Boot of the Coach with his Highness; and there were great Acclamations and shoutings all along the streets as they passed. His Highness the Lord Protector being returned to Whitehall, he went with his Attendants to the Banqueting House, where they had an Exhortation made by Mr. Lockier, Chaplain to his Highness; which b'ing ended, they were dimissed with three Volleys of shot by the Soldiers, between four and five a clock at night. Decemb. 19 1653. His Highness the Lord Protector, met with those named of his Council, in the Council Chamber at Whitehall, it being the place where the Council of State used to sit and several things were Transacted in order to a settlement; and this following Proclamation was ordered to be Printed and published on the Monday following. This day this Proclamation following was published at Westminster and in the City of London, by divers Sergeants at Arms with their Maces. The Lord Mayor and Aldermen being present at the Exchange, etc. By the Council, A Proclamation. WHereas the late Parliament dissolving themselves, and resigning their Powers and Authorities, the Government of the Commonwealth of England, Scotland, and Ireland, by a Lord Protector, and successive Triennial Parliaments, is now established; and whereas Oliver Cromwell, Captain General of all the Forces of this Commonwealth, is declared Lord Protector of the said Nations, and hath accepted thereof: We have therefore thought it necessary (as we hereby do) to make Publication of the Premises, and strictly to charge and command all and every person and persons, of what quality and condition soever, in any of the three Nations, to take notice hereof, and to conform and submit themselves to the Government so established. And all Sheriffs, Mayors, Bailiffs, and other Public Ministers, and Officers, whom this may concern, are required to cause this Proclamation to be forthwith published in their respective Counties, Cities, Corporations, and Market Towns, to the end none may have cause to pretend ignorance in this behalf. Given at Whitehall this 16 day of Decem. 1653. December 21. 1653. His Highness, the Lord Protector, and the Council being thirteen in number, sat in the Council Chamber at Whitehall, where his Highness in a sweet Speech to them, pressed the Council to act for God, and the peace and good of the Nations; and particularly recommended to them, to consider and relieve the distresses of the poor and oppressed: And several things were Transacted in order to a quiet and peaceable settlement of these three Nations. The Names of the Council. Mr. Laurence the Precedent. L. Viscount Lisle. Maj. Goe Lambert. Maj. G. Desbrow. Maj. Goe Skippon. Col. Jones. Col. Sydenham. Sr Gilb. Pickering. Sr Charles Wolsley. Sir Anthoney Ashley-Cooper. Mr. Rous. Mr. Strickland. Mr. Major. A Declaration for alteration of several Names and Forms heretofore used in Courts, etc. OLIVER, Lord Protector of the Commonwealth of England, Scotland, and Ireland, and the Dominions thereunto belonging, having the exercise of the chief Magistracy, and the administration of Government within the said Commonwealth, invested and established in his Highness, assisted with a Council, who have power until the meeting of the next Parliament (which is to be on the third of September next) to make Laws and Ordinances for the peace and welfare of these Nations, where it shall be necassary, which shall be binding and in force until order shall be taken in Parliament concerning the same. And the said Lord Protector finding it to be most necessary that some speedy and effectual course be taken for settling the Names and Forms to be used in Patents, Commissions, and proceed in Courts of Justice, the said L. Protector, by, and with the advice & consent of his said Council, and in pursuance of, and according to the power and trust reposed in him and them, doth declare and ordain, and be it by the Authority aforesaid declared and ordained, That in all Courts of Law, Justice or Equity, and in all Writs, Grants, Patents, Commissions, Indictments, Informations, Suits, returns of Writs, and in all Fines, Recoveries, Exemplifications, Recognizances, Process and Proceed of Law, justice or equity within the said Commonwealth of England, Scotland, and Ireland, and the Dominions thereto belonging, instead of the Name, Style, Title, and Teste (of the Keepers of the Liberty of England, by Authority of Parliament) heretofore used, that from and after the 26 of Decem. 1653. the Name, Style, Title, and Teste of the Lord Protector for the time being, of the Commonwealth of England, Scotland, and Ireland, and the Dominions thereto belonging, shall be used, and no other, and the date shall be in the year of our Lord and no other. And that all Duties, Profits, Penalties, Issues, Fines, Amercements, and Forfeitures whatsoever, which heretofore were sued for in the Name of the Keepers of the Liberty of England by Authority of Parliament, shall from and after the said 26 of Decem. be prosecuted, sued forth, and recovered in the said name of the Lord Protector, for the time being, of the Commonwealth of England Scotland, and Ireland, and the Dominions thereto belonging, and no other. And in all or any of the proceed aforesaid, where the words were, The Jurors for the Commonwealth, or, The Jurors for the Keepers of the Liberty of England by Authority of Parliament, do say, or present, from and after the 26 of Decem. it shall be, The Jurors for the Lord Protector of the Commonwealth of England, Scotland, and Ireland, etc. do say, present, and no other, etc. And it is further Ordained by the Authority aforesaid, That in all Oaths to be given to any Grand or Petty Jury, or to, or for any Witnesses to give in Evidence to any such Jury or Juries, and all other Oaths wherein the name of Keepers of the Liberty, etc. was wont to be used, the same shall be given in the name of the Lord Protector instead of the name of the said Keepers, etc. any Law, Usage, or Custom, to the contrary in any wise notwithstanding. And it is lastly Ordained by the Authority aforesaid, That such Forms and course of proceed, as was heretofore used in the name and time of the Keepers of the Liberty, etc. in Causes criminal or civil, & of which no alteration is made in this Ordinance, shall stand and continue to be so used and observed as formerly; & that all Indictments, Presentments, Inquisitions, Commissions, & Captions made with such Alterations, Additions, or Omissions as aforesaid, or with such other Omissions, Additions, or Alterations as shall be proper and necessary for making good of Indictments Presentments, Commissions, Captions, & Inquisitions, and supplying the sense and meaning thereof, according to the present Government of this Commonwealth under the Lord Protector as aforesaid, shall stand and be good and effectual in Law to all intents and purposes, as if the same had been particularly herein named, any Law, Custom or Usage to the contrary in any wise notwithstanding. The Oath taken by his Highness Oliver Cromwell, LORD PROTECTOR. WHereas the major part of the last Parliament (judging that their sitting any longer, as then constituted, would not be for the good of this Com:) did dissolve the same, and by a writing under their hands, dated the 12 day of this instant Dec. resigned unto Me their powers and Authorities; And whereas it was necessary thereupon, That some speedy course should be taken for the settlement of these Nations upon such a Basis and foundation, as by the blessing of God, might be lasting secure Property, and answer those great ends of Religion and liberty, so long contended for; And upon full and mature consideration had of the Form of Government hereunto annexed, being satisfied that the same, through divine assistance, may answer the ends aforementioned: And having also been desired, and advised, as well by several persons of Interest and Fidelity in this Commonwealth, as the Officers of the Army, to take upon Me the Protection and Government of these Nations in the manner expressed in the said Form of Government, I have accepted thereof, and do hereby declare My acceptance accordingly. And do promise in the presence of God, that I will not violate, and infringe the matters and things contained therein, but to My power observe the same, and cause them to be observed: And shall in all other things, to the best of My understanding, Govern these Nations according to the Laws, Statutes, and Customs, seeking their Peace, and causing Justice and Law to be equally administered. O. CROMWELL. OLIVER CROMWELL, Captain General of all the Forces of this Common wealth, and now declared Lord Protector thereof, did this 16 day of Decem. 1653. sign this Writing and solemnly promise, as is therein contained, in presence of the Lords Commissioners of the Great Seal of Engl. who administered the same Oath, and of the Lord Mayor and Alderm. of the City of London, divers of the Judges of the Land, the Officers of State and Ar●y, and many other persons of Quality. His Excellency Oliver Cromwell General of all the Fo●der of England Scotland & Ireland Chancellor of the University of Oxford 〈◊〉 Lord Protector of Eng: Scot & Ire: Tho: jenner fecit portrait of Oliver Cromwell The Government of the Commonwealth of England, Scotland, and Ireland. 1. THat the Supreme Legislative Authority of the Commonwealth of England, Scotland, and Ireland, and the Dominions thereunto belonging shall be, and reside in One Person, and the people assembled in Parliament; the Style of which person shall be Lord Protector of the Commonwealth of England, Scotland and Ireland. 2. That the exercise of the chief Magistracy and Administration of the Government over the said Countries and Dominions, & the people thereof, shall be in the Lord Protector, assigned with a Council, the number whereof shall not exceed 21, nor be less than 13. 3. That all Writs, Process, Commissions, Patents, Grants, and other things, which now run in the name and stile of the Keepers of the Liberty of England by Authority of Parliament, shall run in the Name and Style of the Lord Protector, from whom, for the future, shall be derived all Magistracy and Honours in these three Nations; and shall have the power of Pardons (except in case of Murder and Treason) and benefit of all Forfeitures 〈◊〉 ●he public use. And shall Gov●●● 〈…〉 ●●tions in all t●●●gs by the 〈…〉 to these presents, and the 〈…〉 4. 〈…〉: sit●●●●●all dispose an● 〈…〉 ●●th by S●● and Land, for the 〈◊〉 and goodliest 〈…〉 consent of Parliament And 〈…〉 advice and consent of the ma●●● 〈…〉 dispose and order the Misitia for the 〈…〉 ●he Interva●●● of Parliament. 5. That the Lord Protector by the advice aforesaid, shall direct in all things concerning the keeping and holding of a good correspondency with Foreign Kings, Princes, & States, and also with the consent of the major part of the Council, have the power of war and peace. 6. That the Laws shall not be altered, suspended, abrogated, or repealed, nor any New Law made, nor any Tax, Charge, or Imposition laid upon the people, but by common consent in Parliament, save only as is expressed in the thirtieth Article. 7. That there shall be a Parliament summoned to meet at Westminster upon the third day of Septemb. 1654. and that successively a Parliament shall be summoned once in every third year, to be accounted from the dissolution of the preceding Parliament. 8. That neither the Parliament to be next summoned, nor any successive Parliaments, shall, during the time of 5 months to be accounted from the day of their first meeting, be adjourned, prorogued or dissolved without their own consent. 9 That as well the next as all other successive Parliaments, shall be summoned and elected in manner hereafter expressed; That is to say, the persons to be chosen within Engl: Wales, the Isles of Jersey and Guernsey, and the Town of Berwick upon Tweed, to sit and serve in Parliament, shall be, and not exceed the number of four hundred. The persons to be chosen within Scotland to sit and serve Parliament shall be, and not exceed the number of thirty. And the persons to be chosen to sit in Pa●liament for Ireland, shall be, and not exceed the number of thi●ty. 10. That the persons to be Elected to sit in Parliament from time to time, for the several Counties of Engl: Wales, the Isles of Jersey and Guernsey, and the Town of Berwick upon Tweed, and all places within the same respectively, shall be according to the proportions and numbers hereafter expressed. That is to say, For the Town of Bedford 1 County of Bedford 5. Abbington 1 Reading 1 County of Berks 5. Buckingham 1 Alisbury 1 Wiccomb 1 County of Bucks 5. Cambridge 1 University of Camb: 1 Ely 2 County of Cambridge 4. Chester 1 County of Chester 4. Launceston 1 Truro 1 Penrin 1 Eastlow and Westlow 1 County of Cornwall 8. Carlisle 1 County of Cumberland 2. Derby 1 County of Derby 4. Excester 2 Plymouth 2 Dartmouth, Clifton, & Hardness 1 Totnes 1 Barnstable 1 Tiverton 1 Honyton 1 County of Devon 11. Dorchester 1 Weymouth & Melcomb-Regis 1 Lyme-Regis 1 Pool 1 County of Dorcet 6. Durham 1 County of Durh: 2. York 2 Kinston upon Hull 1 Beverley 1 Scarborough 1 Richmond 1 Leeds 1 Hallifax 1 Cou: of York, West-Riding 6 East-Riding 4. North-Riding 4. Maldon 1 Colchester 2 Cou: of Essex 13. Gloucester 2 Tewksbury 1 Cirencester 1 County of Gloucester except the said City 5. Hereford 1 Leompster 1 County of Hereford 4. St. Alban 1 Hartford 1 County of Hartford 5. Huntingdon 1 Cou: of Huntingdon 3. Canterbury 2 Rochester 1 Maidston 1 Dover 1 Sandwich 1 Quinborough 1 County of Kent 11. Preston in Andernes 1 Lancaster 1 Liverpool 1 Manchester 1 County of Lancaster 4. Leicester 2 County of Leicester 4. Lincoln 2 Boston 1 Grantham 1 Stamford 1 Grimsby 1 County of Lincoln 10. Westminster 2 County of Middlesex 4 City of London 6. County of Monmouth 3. Norwich 2 Lyn-Regis 2 Yarmouth 2 County of Norfolk 10. Peterborough 1 Northampton 1 County of Northampton 6. Nottingham 2 County of Nottingham 4, Newcastle upon Tine 1 Berwick 1 County of Northumberland 3. Oxford 1 University of Oxf: 1 Woodstock 1 County of Oxf: 5. County of Rutland 2. Shrewsbury 2 Bridgnorth 1 Ludlow 1 County of Salop 4. Litchfield 1 Stafford 1 Newcastle on the Line 1 County of Stafford 3. Taunton 2 Bath 1 Wells 1 Bridgwater 1 Cou: of Somerset 11. City of Bristol 2. Winchester 1 Southampton 1 Pertsmouth 1 Isle of Wight 2. Andevor 1 County of Southamp: 8. Ipswich 2 Burrough of Bury St. edmond's 2 Dunwich 1 Sudbury 1 County of Suffolk 10. Southwark 2 Gilford 1 Rygate 1 County of Surrey 6. Chichester 1 Lewis 1 Eastgreenstead 1 Arundel 1 Rye 1 Count: of Sussex 9 Count: of Westmoreland 2. Coventry 2 Warwick 1 County of Warwick 4. Worcester 2. County of Worcester 5. Sarum 2 Marleborough 1 Devizes 1 County of Wilts 10. Count: of Brecon 2. County of Cardigan 2. County of Carmathen 2. Count: of Carnarven 2. Count: of Denbigh 2. County of Flint 2. Town of Cardiff 1. Count: of Clamorgan 2. Count: of Merionoth 1. Count: of Montgomery 2. Haverford west 1. County of Pembroke 2. County of Radnor 2. The distribution of the persons to be chosen for Scotland and Ireland, shall be according to such proportions and number, as shall be agreed upon, and declared by the Lord Protector and the major part of the Council, before the sending forth Writs of Summons for the next Parliament, etc. 11. That the Summons to Parliament shall be by Writ under the Great Seal of England, directed to the Sheriffs of the several and respective Counties, with such alteration as may suit with the present Government, to be made by the Lord Protector and his Council, which the Chancellor, Keeper, or Commissioners of the Great Seal, shall issue and send abroad by Warrant from the Lord Protector. If the Lord Protector shall not give Warrant for issuing of Writs of Summons for the next Parliament, before the 1. of June, 1654. o● for the Triennial Parliaments before the 1. day of August in every third year, to be accounted as aforesaid, That then the Chancellor, Keeper, or Commissioners of the Great Seal for the time being, shall without any warrant or direction within seven days after the said 1. day of June, 1654. seal, issue, and send abroad Writs of Summons, etc. 12. That at the day and place of Elections, the Sheriff of each County, and the said Mayors, Sheriffs, Bailiffs, and other head-Officers within their Cities. Towns, Burroughs and places respectively, shall take view of the said Elections, and shall make return into the Chancery within twenty days after the said Elections, etc. wherein shall be contained, that the persons elected shall not have power to alter the Government as it is hereby settled in one single person and a Parliament. 13. That the Sheriff, who shall wittingly and willingly make any false return or neglect his duty, shall incur the penalty of two thousand Marks. 14. That all and every person and persons, who have aided, advised, assisted or abetted in any war against the Parliament since the first day of January, 1641. (unless they have been since in the service of the Parliament, and given signal testimony of their good affection thereunto) shall be disabled and uncapable to be elected, or to give any Vote in the Election of any Members to serve in the next Parliament, or in the three succeeding Triennial Parliaments. 15. That all such, who have advised, assisted, or abetted the Rebellion of Ireland, shall be disabled and uncapable for ever to be Elected, or to give any Vote in the election of any Member to serve in Parliament; as also all such who do or shall profess the Roman Catholic Religion. 16. That all Votes and Elections given or made contrary, or not according to these Qualifications, shall be null and void: And if any person who is hereby made uncapable, shall give his Vote for Election of Members to serve in Parliament, such person shall lose and forfeit one full years value of his real Estate, and one full third part of his personal Estate. 17. That the persons who shall be elected to serve in Parliament, shall be such (and no other than such) as are persons of known integrity, fearing God, and of good conversation, and being of the age of 21 years. 18. That all and every person and persons seized or possessed to his own use, of any estate real or personal, to the value of 200 l. and not within the aforesaid exceptions shall be capable to elect Members to serve in Parliam. for Counties. 19 That the Chancellor, Keeper, or Commissioners of the Great Seal, shall be sworn before they enter into their Offices, truly and faithfully to issue forth, and send abroad Writs of Summons to Parliaments at the times and in the manner before expressed: And in case of neglect or failer to issue and send abroad writs accordingly, he or they shall for every such offence be guilty of High Treason, and suffer the pains and penalties thereof. 20. That in case writs be not issued out as is before expressed, but that there be a neglect therein, fifteen days after the time wherein the same aught to be issued out by the Chancellor, Keeper or Commissioners of the great Sea that then the Parliament shall, as often as such failer shall happen assemble and be held at Westminster, in the usual place, at the times prefixed, etc. 21. That the Clerk, called the Clerk of the Commonwealth, in Chancery for the time being and all others, who shall afterwards execute that Office, to whom the Returns shall be made, shall for the next Parliament, & the two succeeding Trieniall Parliaments, the next day after such Return, certify the names of the several persons so returned, and of the places for which he and they were chosen respectively, unto the Council who shall peruse the said Returns, and examine whether the persons so Elected and Returned, be such as is agreeable to the Qualifications, & not disabled to be Elected: And that every person and persons being so duly Elected, and being approved of by the major part of the Council to be persons not disabled, but qualified as aforesaid, shall be esteemed a Member of Parliament, and be admitted to sit in Parliament, and not otherwise. 22 That the persons chosen and assembled in manner aforesaid, or any sixty of them, shall be, and be deemed the Parliament of England, Scotland, & Ireland, and the Supreme Legislative power to be and reside in the Lord Protector and such Parliament, etc. 23. That the Lord Protector, with the advice of the major part of the Council, shall at any other time than is before expressed, when the necessities of the State shall require it, summon Parliaments in manner before expressed, which shall not be adjourned, prorogued, or dissolved without their own consent, during the first three months of their sitting. And in case of future war with any Foreign State, a Parliam. shall be forthwith summoned for their advice concerning the same. 24. That all Bills agreed unto by the Parliament, shall be presented to the Lord Protector for his consent; and in case he shall not give his consent thereto, within twenty days after they shall be presented to him, or give satisfaction to the Parliament within the time limited; That then upon Declaration of the Parliament, that the Lord Protector hath not consented nor given satisfaction, such Bills shall pass into, and become Laws, although he shall not give his consent thereunto; provided such Bills contain nothing in them contrary to the matters contained in these presents. 25. That Philip L. Viscount Lisle, Charles Fleetwood Esq; John Lambert Esq; Sir Gilbert Pickering Baronet, Sir Charles Woolsley Bar. Sir Anthony Ashley-Cooper Bar. Edw: Montagu Esq; John Desbrow Esq; Walter Strickland Esq; Henry Laurence Esq; William Sydenham Esq; Philip Jones Esq; Rich: Major Esq; Francis Rous Esq; Philip Skippon Esq; or any seven of them shall be a Council for the purposes expressed in this Writing; and upon the death or other removal of any of them, the Parliament shall nominate six persons of Ability, Integrity, and fearing God, for every one that is dead or removed, out of which the major part of the Council shall elect two, and present them to the Lord Protector, of which he shall elect one, etc. 26. That the Lord Protector and the major part of the Council aforesaid, may at any time before the meeting of the next Parliament, add to the Council such persons as they shall think fit; provided the number of the Council be not made thereby to exceed 21, and the Quorum to be proportioned accordingly by the Lord Protector and the major part of the Council. 27. That a constant yearly Revenue shall be raised, settled and established for maintaining of ten thousand Horse and Dragoons, and twenty thousand Foot, in England, Scotland, and Ireland, for the defence and security thereof, and also for a convenient number of Ships for guarding of the Seas; besides two hundred thousand pound per annum for defraying the other necessary Charges for administration of Justice, and other expenses of the Government; which Revenue shall be raised by the Customs and such other ways and means as shall be agreed upon by the Lord Protector & the Council, and shall not be taken away or diminished, nor the way agreed upon for raising the same altered, but by the consent of the Lord Protector and the Parliament. 28. That the said yearly Revenue shall be paid into the public Treasury, & shall be issued out for the uses aforesaid. 29. That in case there shall not be cause hereafter to keep up so great a Defence at Land or Sea, but that there be an abatement made thereof, the money which will be saved thereby, shall remain in bank for the public Service, and not be employed to any other use but by consent of Parliament; or in the intervals of Parliament by the Lord Protector and major part of the Council. 30. That the raising of money for defraying the charge of present extraordinary Forces both at Land and Sea, in respect of the present wars, shall be by consent in Parliament and not otherwise: Save only that the Lord Protector, with the consent of the major part of the Council, for preventing the disorders and dangers which may otherwise fall out both at Sea and Land, shall have power until the meeting of the first Parliament, to raise money for the purposes aforesaid, and also to make Laws and Ordinances for the peace and welfare of these Nations, where it shall be necessary, which shall be binding and in force, until Order shall be taken in Parl. concerning the same. 31. That the Lands, Tenements, Rents, Royalties, Jurisdictions and Hereditaments which remain yet unsold or undisposed of by Act or Ordinance of Parliament, belonging to the Commonwealth (except the Forests and Chases, and the Honours and Manors belonging to the same; the Lands of the Rebels in Ireland, lying in the four Counties of Dublin, Cork, Kildare, & Katerlaugh, the Lands forfeited by the people of Scotland in the late wars, and also the Lands of Papists and Delinquents in England who have not yet compounded) shall be vested in the Lord Protector, to hold, to him and his Successors Lord Protectors of these Nations, and shall not be aliened but by consent in Parliament. And all Debts, Fines, Issues, Amerciaments, penalties and profits, certain and casual, due to the Keepers of the Liberties of Engl: by Authority of Parliament, shall be due to the Lord Protector, and be payable unto his public Receipt, and shall be recovered and prosecuted in his Name. 32. That the Office of the Lord Protector over these Nations, shall be Elective and not Hereditary; and upon the death of the Lord Protector, another fit person shall be forthwith Elected, to succeed him in the Government, which Election shall be by the Council, etc. Provided that none of the Children of the late King, nor any of his Line or Family, be Elected to be Lord Protector or other chief Magistrate over these Nations, or any the Dominions thereto belonging. And until the aforesaid Election be past, the Council shall take care of the Government, and administer in all things as fully as the Lord Protector, or the Lord Protector and Council are enabled to do. 33. That O. Cromwell, Captain General of the Forces of England, Scotland, and Ireland, shall be, and is hereby declared to be Lord Protector of the Commonwealth of England, Scotland, and Ireland, and the Dominions thereto belonging, for his life. 34. That the Chancellor, Keeper, or Commissioners of the Great Seal, the Treasurer, Admiral chief Governors of Ireland and Scotland, and the chief Justices of both the Benches, shall be chosen by the approbation of Parliament; and in the intervals of Parl. by the approbation of the major part of the Council, to be afterwards approved by the Parl. 35. That the Christian Religion contained in the Scriptures be held forth & recommended as the public profession of these Nations; and that as soon as may be, a provision, less subject to scruple and contention, and more certain than the present, be made for the encouragement and maintenance of able and painful Teachers, for instructing the people, and for discovery and confutation of Error, Heresy, and whatever is contrary to sound Doctrine: And that until such provision be made, the present maintenance shall not be taken away nor impeached. 36. That to the public profession held forth, none shall be compelled by penalties or otherwise, but that endeavours be used to win them by sound Doctrine, and the example of a good conversation. 37. That such as profess Faith in God by Jesus Christ (though differing in judgement from the Doctrine, worship, or Discipline publicly held forth) shall not be restrained from, but shall be protected in the profession of the Faith, and exercise of their Religion; so as they abuse not this liberty, to the civil injury of others, and to the actual disturbance of the public peace on their parts, provided this liberty be not extended to popery nor prelacy, nor to such as under the profession of Christ hold forth and practise licentiousness. 38. That all Laws, Statutes, Ordinances and Clauses in any Law, Statute and Ordinance to the contrary of the aforesaid Liberty, shall be esteemed as null and void. 39 That the Acts and ordinances of Parliament, made for the sale or other disposition of the Lands, Rents and Hereditaments of the late King, Queen and Prince, of Arch-Bishops and Bishops, etc. Deans and Chapters, the Lands of Delinquents, and Forest Lands, or any of them, or of any other Lands, Tenements, Rents and Heriditaments belonging to the Commonwealth, shall no ways be impeached or made invalid, but shall remain good and firm: And that the Securities given by Act and Ordinance of Parliament for any sum or sums of money, by any of the said Lands, the Excise, or by any other public Revenue; and also the Securities given by the public Faith of the Nation, and the engagement of the public Faith for satisfaction of Debts and Damages, shall remain firm and good, and not be made void and invalid upon any pretence whatsoever. 40. That the Articles given to, or made with the Enemy, and afterwards confirmed by Parliament, shall be performed and made good to the persons concerned therein. And that such appeals, as were depending in the last Parliament, for relief concerning Bills of sale of Delinquents Estates, may be heard and determined the next Parl. any thing in this writing, or otherwise to the contrary notwithstanding. 41. That every successive L. Protector over these Nations, shall take and subscribe a solemn Oath, in the presence of the Council, & such others as they shall call to them that he will seek the peace, quiet, and welfare of these Nations, cause law and Justice equally to be administered, and that he will not violate or infringe the matters and things contained in this writing; and in all other things will to his power, and to the best of his understanding, govern these Nations according to the Laws, Statutes, and Customs. 42. That each person of the Council shall, before they enter upon their Trust, take, & subscribe an Oath, That they will be true and faithful to their Trust, according to the best of their knowledge; and that in the election of every successive Lord Protector, they shall proceed therein impartially, and do nothing therein for any promise, fear, favour, or reward. April 25. 1654. Four Ordinances were published touching Scotland. ●●●ting Scoctland into one Commonwealth with England St Andrews ●●●osse the Scots Arms be born in the Arms of this Commonwealth coat of arms of the Commonwealth THirty persons to be called from Scotland in every Parliament. That Charles Stewart, and all of the late King's posterity, be disabled to enjoy the Crown of Scotland, or Name, Title, Style, Dignity, Honours, or any Possessions of any Hereditaments thereto belonging; As also the Convocation of the three Estates of Scotland to be abolished. That Custom and Excise of Goods, be no otherwise between England and Scotland, then from one place of England to another. That Taxes be proportionable to England. And that all Possessors of Lands after Apr. 12. 1654. shall hold their Lands of the Lords, by Deed, Patent, or Enfeoffment, to be renewed upon the death of every Heritor to his Heirs, under such Rents, and Services as are due by Deeds now in being, without rendering any other duty, service, vassalage or demand whatsoever, except Heritors where the same are due. A Court Barron every three weeks, to Judge all Contracts, Debts, Promises, and Trespasses not exceeding 40 s. sterling. July 1. 1654. The High Court of Justice met in Westminster-hall, the Lord Com. Lisle sat as Precedent, their Commission was read, and the Court called over by their names; Mr. Attorney Gen. Prideaux, Mr. Solicitor Gen. Ellis, and Mr. Serjeant Glin, were Counsel for his Highness the Lord Protector. The Lieut. of the Tower, first brought Mr. Somerset Fox, one of the Conspirators in the late Treason, to the Bar, and Mr. Attorney Gen. then presented a Charge of High Treason against him engrossed in parchment to the Court, which was read: The Prisoner said very little to it, but made a Confession to the Court of so much as (he said) he was guilty of, having some few days before made the like confession, and given it under his hand as the truth, and accordingly owned it in Court, his confession under his own hand was also read, which did discover what was his part to act as an Agent in this bloody design. The Court having satisfied themselves concerning Mr. Fox, the Lieut. of the Tower brought Mr. John Gerrard, and Mr. Peter Vowel, to the Bar, where F●x also stood, and the like Charge of High Treason was read against them also; which Charge consisted of these heads, viz. The murdering of his Highness the Lord Protector as he should go to Hampton Court on a Saturday prefixed: The seizing of all the Guards about Whitehall, the Mews, & St. James', & the making of themselves masters of the City of London, and the Tower with all the Magazines within the same: The proclaiming of Charles Stuart King, & chief Magistrate of England, Scotland, and Ireland, and the Dominions thereunto belonging, and other high Treasons tending to involve the Commonwealth in a new bloody war. To which charge of High Treason the said Gerard and Vowel pleaded Not guilty, pretending much ignorance, and that they were innocent of the knowledge of any such design; and did very much press the Court to grant them Counsel to advise withal, and that they might be tried by a Jury, which being not to be granted unto them, and waved, several Witnesses were produced upon their Oaths to make appear what they were charged with, as John Wiseman, Dr. Hudson, a blind man, Mr. Charles Gerhard Brother to the Prisoner, Capt. Dale, one Mr. Wharton, and others, who did sufficiently prove, That Mr. Gerrard was to command the party who were to murder his Highness the L. Protector as he was going to Hampton Court with thirty Horse; and that the said Gerrard had engaged to bring 25 of the 30, and Maj. T: Henshaw was to bring 5 more: and it was also proved against him, that he, with Maj. Henshaw, and the Witness J. Wiseman, did view the several Guards at Whitehall, the Mews, and St. James', and had computed and designed 600 Horse as sufficient to seize and secure those Guards, appointing also a party of Horse to march into Tuttle-fields, as friends, and so to fall upon the forces then mustering, and cut them off: It was also proved against him by his Brother Mr. Charles Gerrard, that he was at several meetings at his own Chamber near Essex house, and at other places with Maj. Henshaw, and Finch, and others, about this design, and particularly at Mr. Jones his House in Rose street in Covent Garden where in a Chamber Henshaw and Finch gave an account that they had each of them listed 800 men to be ready at a day's warning; several other things were proved, which he obstinately denied; but confessed his name was much used therein, but was no intent Actor. And for Mr. Vowel, several Witnesses upon their Oaths did testify, that he was at many meetings with Henshaw, Finch, Gerhard, and other of the Plotters to contrive the management of this business, being a person thought more fit to be a Councillor, than an Actor, and his reward should have been to be Master of Suttons Hospital; and it was also proved against him, though he could not act himself, yet he promised to procure those that should act, and did engage one Capt. Billingsley, who undertook to provide Riders for the Horses who should be taken out of Islington fields; it was also proved his buying of Pistols, and many other things sufficient to prove his hand deep in the business. And for Somerset Fox, he confessed so much as saved the Court much trouble in examining witnesses: His part was, to engage as many Apprentices and Citizens of London as he could in the business, that so when the falling on was upon the Guards at White hall, the Mews and St. James', and Col. Ingeldsbies' Regiment in Southwark and the rest of the Plot was in agitation, there might be a rising and tumult made purposely in the City, to employ what force was there, that no help might come elsewhere; and the Lord Mayor was to have been seized and carried to proclaim Charles Stuart King at the Exchange, and Dr. Wharton was to see him proclaimed: yet notwithstanding all these witnesses, Gerhard and Vowel denied they knew of any thing of such a design; but they were not so satisfied, but that a base design was intended, too unworthy for a Gentleman to have his hand in, as did further appear by the testimony of John Wiseman, who did relate his going over into France with his brother in Law Maj. Henshaw, where they met the said Mr. Gerhard at Paris, and there had free access to the pretended King of Scots, about this design, and received great encouragement in the business from Prince Rupert; whereupon Henshaw and Wiseman returned into England, and Mr. Gerhard came over about 3 weeks after to put the business in agitation, immediately upon his arrival, the said Henshaw, Finch, etc. repaired to his lodging near Essex house, and received an account of the business, and so proceeded to act, as the said Wiseman testified. The Witnesses being all examined, and the Prisoners heard what they could say for themselves, the Attorney Gen. Solicitor Gen. and the Council for the Commonwealth summed up all the Evidences, and drew them into several heads, which they presented to the Court with the Prisoners at the Bar, as objects of their Justice, the said Gerhard and Vowel still remaining obstinate. The Prisoners were commanded back to the Tower. July 6. The Portugal Ambassadors Brother, and the rest, we●e again brought to their Trial at the Upper Bench at Westminster and a Jury of 12 men, whereof 6 Denizes' and 6 Aliens Impanneled and swore: The Ambass: Brother pleaded very hard his ignorance in the Laws of England, and desired Council, but that was denied, and he told, That the Court were of Council equal, and alike to him, as to the Commonwealth, and would do according to Law and the Justice of the Cause; Hereupon many Witnesses were sworn and examined, and upon full hearing of the Evidence, and what the Prisoners could say, the Jury withdrew, and in a short time returned, and delivered their Verdict by their Foreman (all agreeing) finding them all 5 guilty of the murder and Felony for which they stood indicted; whereupon Judgement was afterwards pronounced, after a short speech made by the L: Chief Justice Rolls in the name of the Court, That they should return from whence they came and from thence be carried to the place of Execution, & there seveally to be hanged by the neck till they are dead. The day appointed Saturday, but the Prisoners moved for respite till Monday, which was granted. This afternoon also the High Court of Justice sat in Westminster-hall, and there was brought before them Mr. Gerard, Mr. Vowel, and Mr. Fox, who were demanded what they had more to say for themselves, Gerhard and Vowel spoke much to excuse themselves, notwithstanding what had been proved against them; after which the L. Precedent Lisle made a learned speech, to convince them of the desperate wickedness of their design, and how fully the Charge had been proved, and what punishments the Law had provided in such cases, after which the Sentence of the Court was read severally to all three, to this effect, That upon mature consideration of the Treasons and Murders plotted, and contrived, by them against his Highness the Lord Protector, and the Commonwealth, and raising a bloody war in the same, the Court did adjudge them to be hanged by the neck until they be dead. Mr. Gerhard desired the Execution might be altered, that he might be beheaded or shot to death, and therefore petitioned to the Lord Protector. About 4 in the afternoon, Mr. John Gerhard was brought to the Scaffold on Tower-hill, his behaviour was sprightly, the substance of his discourse Cavalier-like, boasting himself of the profession of Religion which was established by Queen Elizabeth, K. James, and Charles, to which family he declared his affection. He acknowledged himself guilty of former sins (but named them not) for which he had deserved death heretofore; but as touching the Crime for which he was to die, he spent not many words, only he confessed that he knew of the plot. At length he submitted his neck to the Executioner, who at once severed the Head from the Body. July 10. 1654. Don Pontaleon Sa, Brother to the Portugal Ambassador, and Mr. John Gerhard, were both beheaded at Tower-hill. depiction of a beheading at Tower Hill But a little before he lay down, came the Portugal Ambassadors Brother, Don Pontaleon Sa. A very observable hand of Providence that these two persons, Gerhard and the Don, who began that quarrel, in the prosecution whereof the murder was committed at the New Exchange, should meet thus to die at the same time and place, for different crimes. It is also to be noted, that God did even mark out this Portugal for Justice; for when he escaped out of Newgate at first, he was immediately found out: and now having by Order of the Court been remanded to the Keeper of Newgate, he was very near an escape thence again, but the Lord prevented him: For yesternight, being Lords day at night, a new plot was laid for his escaping by two women, one was Mrs. Gourdon who brought another woman, who under her woman's apparel had a Footboys suit on; the woman's being taken off, they dressed up the Don in them, and so he came down with Mrs. Gourdon, to to the door, where the Keeper narrowly prying under the hood, discovered the fraud, and spoilt the business. This failing, and the hour of execution next day approaching, he was conveyed from Newgate to Tower hill in a Coach and six Horses in mourning having divers of of his Brother's retinue with him, much lamenting his condition. Being upon the Scaffold, he spoke somewhat to those that understood him, in excuse of his offence, laying the blame of the quarrel and murder upon the English. So after some few private words and passages of Popish devotion with his Confessor, he surrendered to him his Beads and Crucifix, and his Head to the Block, which was chopped off with somewhat more than a single blow. The rest condemned about th' t murder, were reprieved all, save an Irish man, who was executed also this day early in the morning, at Tiborn. In the morning also of this day, the Articles of Peace being fully concluded betwixt England and Portugal, were signed by the said Ambassador, and immediately thereupon he withdrew from his house out of Town. It pleased his Highness to reprieve Somerset Fox, because of his ingenuous confession, but this day the other two were executed for their Treasons against his Highness and the Commonwealth. Vowel a Schoolmaster, was in the morning executed upon a Gallows at Charingcross, and in the same place it was expected Gerhard should have suffered the same death, but he had the favour granted him to lose his head: Vowel spoke little of the crime for which he suffered, but the main of his discourse was to proclaim how great a Zealot he was to the old way of Religion, and to the cause of the late King and his family; wherein he let fall divers expressions tending to sedition, and few of repentance for his fault touching which he would not speak out, but willed the Executioner to do his Office, and so after half an hours hanging he was cut down, and conveyed away in a Coach. The form of an Indenture between the Sheriff, and the Erectors of Person, to se●ve in Parl. for Counties. depiction of Parliament THis Indenture made the _____ day of _____ in the year of our Lord, one thousand six hundred fifty and four, at _____ in the County of _____ Between _____ Sheriff of the County aforesaid of the one part, and C. D. E. F. G. H. and divers other persons qualified and capable to Elect Members to serve in Parliament for Counties, as is prescribed in the Government of the Commonwealth of England, Scotland, and Ireland, witnesseth, That Proclamation having been made in every Market-Town in the County aforesaid, within ten days after the receipt of a certain Writ of the Lord Protector to the aforesaid Sheriff directed, and to one part of these Indentures annexed for the Election of _____ Knights, fit and discreet persons of the County aforesaid, for the Parliament of the said Lord Protector, in the Writ aforesaid specified to be chosen, and to be at the Parliament of the said Lord Protector, at Westminster in the County of Middlesex, the third day of September next to be held; The aforesaid C. D. E. F. G. H. etc. and divers other Persons of the County aforesaid, who were present at such Election, freely and indifferently have chosen _____ Knights girt with Swords, that is to say, A. B. etc. to be in the Parliament aforesaid, as in the said Writ is mentioned, who for themselves, as also for all the People of the County aforesaid, have full and sufficient power to do and consent unto those things, which in the aforesaid Parliament shall then and there, by common consent and council, happen to be ordained. Provided, and it is hereby Declared, That the persons so chosen shall not have power to alter the Government as it is now settled in one single person and a Parliament. In witness whereof, as well the Seal of the Office of the said Sheriff, as also the Seals of the Electors aforesaid, the day, year, and place abovesaid, to these Indentures are put and affixed. The form of an Indenture between the Sheriff, and the Burgesses and Inhabitants of Burroughs. THis Indenture made the _____ day of _____ in the year of our Lord, one thousand six hundred fifty and four, Between A. B. High Sheriff of the County of _____ of the one part, and C. D. E. F. G. H. etc. Burgesses and Inhabitants of the Burrow of _____ of the other part, witnesseth, That by virtue of a Warrant unto I: K: _____ of the said Burrow of _____ from the said High Sheriff to him directed, for the Electing and choosing of _____ Burgesses of good understanding, knowledge and discretion for Causes concerning the public good of this Commonwealth, To be at his Highness' Parliament to be ●olden at Westminster the third day of September next; we the said Burgesses and Inhabitants there, have made choice and election of L. and M. to be Burgesses of the said Burrow of _____ to attend at the said Parliament according to the tenor of the said Warrant unto him the said I. K. directed in that behalf; who for themselves and people of the said Burrough have full power to do and consent to those things which in Parliament shall happen: Provided they altar not the Government from one single person and a Parliament. In witness whereof we the parties above named to these presents interchangeably set our hands and Seals, the day and year first above written. January 22. 1654. The five months (according to the instrument of the Government for the time allotted to sit) being expired, his Highness the Lord Protector sent a message to them to meet him in the Painted Chamber, about 12 of clock; where they being met, he made a speech about two hours lo●g for the dissolving of the Parliament, and so declared than he did dissolve them. Charles by the grace of God, Prince of Wales, Duke of Cornwell, etc. portrait of Charles II YOu will easily believe that I am very well persuaded, to hear how careful and solicitous you are for my concernments, and of the course you resolve to take: The truth is, I have been so tender of my friends, that I have deferred to call upon them to appear, till I could find myself able to give them good encouragements from abroad; but since I find that comes on so slowly, I would no longer refrain those affections, which I must desire to be beholding to; and have reason to believe, that if they who wish one and the same thing, knew each others minds, the work would be done without any difficulty, and if there were any handsome appearance in any one place, the rest would not sit still, and I am persuaded I should then find supplies from those who are yet afraid to offer them; however I am sure I would myself be with those that first wished for me, and to that purpose I would keep myself within a reasonable distance. Consult with those you dare trust, if you are already agreed upon a time, and you cannot promise yourselves any thing that you will be disappointed in, and which is in the Power of Your affectionate friend CHARLES R. July 16. 1655. March 13. 1655. THis day his Highness, as also the Members of the Council, and the Officers of the Army, were busy about the Plot, and to subdue the rise in several places. All the Horses about London were this day seized on by Order from his Highness and the Council, to prevent any rising here. This evening some hundred of Arms where brought into Whitehall from the Tower by water in Boats, Backs, and Breasts, and Swords, which are there ready as occasion shall offer for use. His Highness and the Council sat very late (until after midnight) this night, making all possible means for suppression of all tumults and insurrections, touching which several Commissions, and Instructions, and Letters, were dispatched to the several Counties, to the end the Commonwealth may be established in Peace, that those who are risen may be suppressed, and to prevent the like in other places. A Relation of the several Rise, the truth whereof is as followeth. THere were some Cavaliers said to be risen about Merioneth shire, and other parts in Wales, reported in all to be 7 or 8 hundred, but not like to be so many of that party, for some of those that rise in Wales were Inhabitants to oppose any that should rise as was feared, which intended to join with those of the Army. Another party were risen in Nottingham shire, noised to be 500, but not thought so many, towards whom a party from Col. Hacker marched out of Leicester shire to suppress them; their intent was thought to be, to have joined with another party at Shrewsbury which were discovered, and so their design frustrated. There were four men to go into Shrewsbury Castle, two in woman's apparel, and the other two as their men to wait on them; who being got in, at a seasonable time were to give notice by shooting off a Pistol to a party of horse which they were to let in, and so surprise the Castle, of which Colonel Mackworth, one of the sons of the old Colonel Mackworth deceased, now the Governor, having notice, prevented their design; and hath apprehended the Lord Newport, one White, Sir Thomas Harris, and several of the Actors: about 100 horse were found in a Barn, and the Arms under straw in the same Barn, which are taken, and those parts secured. Chester was also intended to be seized on. Those that were risen in Nottingham shire so soon as they had an Alarm from Colonel Hackers Troops marching against them from Leicester shire, the chief of the Cavaliers met in consultation what to do, and presently resolved to disperse and be gone; because they were prevented of joining with those intended to have risen at Shrewsbury, and that a party of the Army were marching towards them, and they had no security to retreat any where; the Countries about not rising as was expected, but rather opposing them: It was debated what they should do with their Arms, for they had received a Cart load of Arms, some would have had them thrown into the water, but it was resolved to have them sent back to the house from which they were sent to them, which accordingly was done, and the Cavaliers dispersed presently upon it; and some of the chief of them are apprehended, and the Arms seized on. York. March 26. 1655. Sir Richard Maliverer, on Thursday night last, sent for all his Tenants to a great Supper, and then invited them all to join with him in taking up Arms, and told them they intended that night to take York for the King, and appointed them a gate where he would meet them, some four went along with him, divers Gentlemen met them upon Hessay More, and Carts laden with Arms; after they had been there a while, the appearance was so small, to what was expected, that they parted again. Sir Richard Maliverer went home, and bid his Lady to take the best course she could for herself, for he was necessitated to fly, wishing himself well arrived beyond the Seas, and so departed from her. The Intelligence touching the Cavaliers that were at Salisbury, is as followeth. THe Judges came to Salisbury on Saturday last, being met by Mr. Dove the High Sheriff and his men, and that divers of the Cavaliers came into the Town, it being a time (as they supposed) of least suspicion. On the Lord's day about midnight the Cavaliers randezvouzed, and were above 100 Monday morning early they seized all the horses, seized on the Sheriff about seven a clock, would have forced him to proclaim Charles Stewart King, which he refusing, they wounded him in several places, cut him over the face with a sword, knocked him over the head with a pistol, yet he told them he would lose his life before he would do it, and though he offered them money and other offers, yet they took him away. The Commander in chief was one Sir Joseph Wagstaffe, formerly a Lieut. Colonel, at the beginning of the late wars, in the Parliaments Army; but now revolted to the late King, was a Colonel under him; a●d now Major General to this intended Brigade for Charles St●wart. And they plundered both the Judges, the Sheriff, the Justices, the Lawyers, and Gentlemen, and all, of all they coul● get fit to carry away; But afterwards one Penruddock told the Judges that Maj. Gen. Wagstaffe had given order to assure them, that they should receive no harm in their own persons. After that they had taken from the Judges their Paroll, they let out the prisoners, some for debt (as Mr. Gokin who was in for 1000 l. and others) and all the Thiefs and malefactors, with their Irons upon them, mounted those that would join with them, and went out (after they had proclaimed Charles Stewart King) being about 200. And from thence went to Blanford, encouraging their followers, that their chief Leader was coming from France to head them with 10000 men, for they began to be discouraged that the Country people did not rise and join with them as was expected; so that some of them have left them, among which some of them are come to Whitehall to beg pardon. They went from thence towards Dorchester. The chief are said to be, M. Gen. Sir Joseph Wagstaffe Sir Henry More of Berkshire John Penruddock Esq; Maj. Henry Clark Esq; Thomas Mumparsons Lieut. Col. Boll Capt. Hugh Grove, Two of the Joneses, etc. There are divers of them taken. Col: Penruddocke, Col: Jones, Mr. John Dean, And Mr. Lucas, Were Executed, at the appointed places, on Thursday and Friday last, at Salisbury and Excester, being the 3 and 4 of this instant May, 1655. Sir William Ingram, Sir Walter Vavasor, Sir Hen: Slingsby, and divers other Gentlemen, are suspected to have had an hand in the business; a party of horse is gone this morning to secure such as can be found: Sir William Ingram is brought in already. Part of the Instructions and Orders given to the Major Generals for preserving the Peace of the Commonwealth, are as followeth. THey are to endeavour the suppressing all Tumults, Insurrections, Rebellion, or other unlawful Assemblies, which shall be within the said Counties, as also all Invasions from abroad, and to that purpose shall have power to draw together the said Forces or Troops, and march into such places as they shall judge convenient in England and Wal●s. They are to take care and give order, That all Papists and others who have been in Arms against the Parliament, or assisted the late King or his Son in the late Wars, as also all others who are dangerous to the peace of the Nation, be disarmed, and their Arms secured in some adjacent Garrisons, or otherwise disposed of, as may be for the public service. And to the end that the Highways and Roads may be more safe for Travellers, and the many Robberies and Burglaries daily committed may be prevented They, with the said Captains and Officers shall use their best endeavours to find out all such Thiefs, Robbers, Highwaymen, and other dangerous persons as lurk & lie hid in any place within the several Counties, and the houses and places which they frequent and usually lodge in, and take such course for the apprehending of them, and also for the prosecuting them and their Receivers, as is agreeable to Law. And they have hereby power to appoint such reward, not exceeding ten pounds, to such person as shall discover and apprehend any such Thief, Highwayman or Robber, to be paid unto them after the conviction of the party so discovered and apprehended, which the Sheriff for the time being shall pay, and which shall according to an Act of Parliament, entitled, An Act for the better and more effectual discovery and prosecution of Thiefs & Highwaymen, be allowed to him upon his account. They are to have a strict eye upon the Conversation and carriage of all Diaffected persons within the several Counties. And they shall give the like direction to all the said Captains and Officers at their Meetings, to be watchful and diligent in the same kind: As also that no Horse-races, Cock-fighting, Bear-baitings, stageplays, or any unlawful Assemblies be suffered or permitted within their Counties. Forasmuch as Treason and Rebellion, is usually hatched and contrived against the State upon such occasions, and much Evil and Wickedness committed. They and the aforesaid Officers, shall labour to inform themselves of all such idle and lose people that are within their Counties, who have no visible way of Livelihood, nor calling or employment, and shall consider by what means they may be compelled to work, or be sent out of the Commonwealth: As also how the poor and impotent of those Counties may be employed, and better provided for, then now they are, and certify the same to us, and the Council, for our further Direction thereupon. And in the mean time, shall endeavour as far as in them lies, that the Laws in such cases, made and provided, be put in effectual Execution. They shall in their constant Carriage and Conversation, encourage and promote Godliness and Virtue, and Discourage and Discountenance all profaneness and Ungodliness; and shall endeavour with the other Justices of the Peace, and other Ministers and Officers, who are entrusted with the care of those things that the Laws against Drunkenness, Blaspheming, and taking of the Name of God in vain, by swearing and cursing, Plays and Interludes, and profaning the Lords day, and such like wickedness and abominations, be put in more effectual execution than they have been hitherto. They shall take an exact account of what proceed have been upon the Ordinance for Ejecting of Ignorant, Insufficient, and Scandalous Ministers and Schoolmasters, and take care that the same be effectually put in Execution for the time to come, in all the Counties aforesaid; and that from time to time, they give an accout to us and our Council. All those that had any way assisted the King, were Decemated; that is, they were to pay the tenth part of their Estate, to the bearing of the charges of the Army; which was settled in every County throughout the Land. A Perfect LIST of the Names of the Persons returned to serve in this Parl. 1656. For the several Counties and Corporations within the Commonwealth of England, Scotland, and Ireland, and the Dominions thereunto belonging. Bedford. WIlliam Butler Kt. John Harvey Richard Wagstaffe Samuel Bedford Richard Edward's Bedford Town. Thomas Marget's Berkes. William Trumball John Southby Edmond Dunche John Dunche William Hid Abington. Thomas Holt Reading. Sir John Barkstead Daniel Blagrave Buckingham. Lord Whitlock Sir Richard Piggot Richard Grenvile Richard Ingoldsby Richard Hamden Buckingham Town. Francis Ingoldsby Alisbury. Thomas Scot Chipping Wiccomb. Maj. Gen. Tobias Bridge Cambridge & Ely. Sir Francis Russell Bar. Robert Castle Henry Pickering Robert West University. Lord Richard Cromwell Cambridge Town. Alderman Richard Tymbes Ely. John Thurloc William Fisher Chester. Sir George Booth Bar. Thomas Marbury Richard Leigh. Peter Brook Chester City. Edward Bradshaw Cornwall. Francis Rous John St. Aubin Anthony Rous Anthony Nchol Richard Cartar Thomas Chely William Braddon Walter Moyle Launceston. Thomas Gewen Truro. Walter Vincent Penryn. John Fox Eastlow & Westlow. John Buller Cumberland. Maj. Gen. Charles Howard William Briscee Carlisle. Scoutmaster Gen. Downing Derby. John Gell Sir Samuel Sleight Thomas Saunders Germane Pole Derby Town. Gervase Bennet Devon. Sir John Northcot Bar. Sir John Young Robert roll Arthur Upton Thomas Reynell William Morrice Henry Hatsell Edmond fowel John Hale John Dodderidge Thomas Saunders Excester. Thomas Bampfield Thomas Westlake Plymouth. John Maynard Timothy Alsop Darmouth, Clifton, Hardness. Edward Hopkins Totnes. Christopher Maynard Burnstaple. Sir John Coppleston Tiverton. Robert Shapcot Honyton. Samuel Searle Dorcet. Col. William Sydenham John Bingham Robert Coker John Fitz-James James Dewey John Trenchard Dorchester. John Whiteway Weymouth & Melcomb-regis. Dennis Bond Lyme-regis. Edmond Prideaux Poole. Edward Butler Dirham. Thomas Lithame James Clavern Dirham City. Anthony Smith York. East-Riding. Sir William Strickland Hugh Bethel Junior Richard Darley Henry Darley West-Riding. Lord Lambert Francis Thorpe Henry Tempest Henry Arthington Edw: Gyll. John Stanhop North-Riding. George Lord Eure Col. Robert Lilburne Luke Robinson Francis Lassels York City. Lord Widdrington Thomas Dickenson Kingston upon Hull. William Lyster Beverley, Francis Thorpe Scarborough. Edward Salmon Richmond, John Bathurst Leeds. Francis Alanson, Senior. Adam Baynes Hallifax. Jeremy Bently Essex. Sir Thomas Honywood Dionysius Wakering Henry Mildmay Carew Mildmay Sir Rich: Everard Bar. Robert Barrington Dudley Templer Oliver Raymond Edward Turnor Sir Tho: Bowes Hezek: Hains. John Archer Sir Harbottle Grimstone Colchester. Henry Laurence L. Presid. John Maidstone Maldon, Joachim Mathews Gloucester. George Berkley John whither John Crofts Baynham Throckmorton William Nest Gloucester City. General John Disbrow Thomas Pury, younger. Tewksbury. Francis White Cirencester. John Stone. Hereford. Maj. Gen. James Berry Edward Harloe Bennet Hoskins Benjamin Mason Hereford City. Wroth Roger's Leompster. John Birch Hertford. William Earl of Salisbury Sir Richard Lucy Bar. Sir John Wittronge Sir John Gore Rowland Litton St. Albans. Albon Cox Hertford Borough. Isaac Puller Huntingdon. Gen. Edward Mountagu Henry Cromwell Nicholas Pedley Huntingdon Borough. John Barnard Kent. John Dixwell william James Henry Oxinden Sir Thomas Style Bar. John Boys Lambert Godfrey Richard Beale John Seyliard Ralph Welden Richard Meredith Daniel Shatterden Canterbury City. Thomas St. Nicholas Vincent Den Rochester City. John Parker Maidstone. John Banks Dover. Maj. Gen. Kelsey Sandwich. Mr Fir●erne Quinborough. Gabriel Livesey Leicester. Thomas Beaumond Francis Hacker William Quarles Thomas Pochen Leicester Borough. Sir Arthur Hasterig William Stanely Lincoln. Thomas Hall Thomas Lister Thomas Hatchet Edward Rossiter Charles Hall William Wolley Francis Fiennes William Savile William Welby Charles Hussey Lincoln City. Original Pert Humphrey Walcot Boston. Sir Anthony Irby Grantham, William Ellis Stamford, John Weaver Great Grimsky. William Wray Middlesex. Sir John Barkstead Sir William Roberts Challenor Chute William Kiffen Westminster. Col. Edward Grosvener Edward Cary London. Thomas Foot Alder: Sir Christopher Pack Thomas Adam's Alder: Richard Brown Theophilus Biddolph John Jones Monmouth. Maj. Gen. James Berry John Nicholas Edward Herbert Norfolk. Charles Fleetwood Sir John Hobart Bar. Sir William Doily Sir Ralph Hare Baronet Sir Horatio Townshend Philip Woodhouse Robert Wilton Robert Wood John Buxton Thomas Sotherton Lyn-Regis. Gen. John Dis●row Maj. Gen. Skippon Guibon Goddard Norwich City. Bernard Church John Hobart Great Yarmouth. Charles George Cock William Burton Northampton. Sir Gilbert Pickering Bar. Lord Cleypool Maj. Gen. William Boteler James Langham Thomas Crew Alexander Blake Peterburge. Francis St. John Northampton Town. Francis Harvey Nottingham. Maj. Gen. Edw: whaley Edward Clud Edward Nevil Peniston whaley Nottingham Town. Col. James Chadwick William Drury Alderman Northumberland. William Fenwick Lord Widdrington Robert Fenwick Newcastle upon Tine. Walter Strickland Berwicke. Col. George Fenwick Oxford. Charles Fleetwood William Lenthall Robert Jenkinson Miles Fleetwood Sir Francis Norris University. Nathanael Fins Oxford City. Richard Croke Woodstock. Maj. Gen. William Packer Rutland. William Shield Abel Barker Salop. Thomas Mackworth Philip Young. Samuel More Andrew Lloyd Shrewsbury. Col. Humphrey Mackworth Samuel Jones Bridgnorth. Edward Waring Ludlow. John Aston Stafford. Sir Charles Wosley Thomas Crompton Thomas Whitgreave Litchfield. Thomas Minors Stafford Town. Martin noel Newcastle on the Line. John Bowyer Somerset. General Disbrow John Buckland Alexander Popham Robert Long. John Gorges Francis Luttrell. John Ash John Harrington Lislebone Long William Whindham Francis Roll Taunton, Robert Blake Tho: George's Bath, James Ash Wells, John Jenkyn Bridgwater, Gen. Disbrow Bristol. Robert Aldworth John Doddrige Southampton. Lord Richard Cromwell Maj. Gen. William Goffe. Robert Wallop Richard Norton Thomas Cole John Bulkley. Richard Cob Edward Hooper, Elder Winchester. John Hildesley Southampton Tomn John Lisle Lord Com. Portsmouth Thomas Smith Isle of Wight. William Sydenham Thomas Bowreman Andover, Thomas Hussey Suffolk Sir Henry Felton Sir Thomas Barnidston Henry North Edmond Harvey Edward Wineve John Silkmore William Bloys William Gibbs Robert Brewster Daniel Wall Ipswich. Nathanael Bacon Francis Bacon Bury St. edmond's. Samuel Moody John Clark Dunwich, Francis Brewster Sudbury, John Fothergill Surrey. Sir Richard Onslow Arthur Onslow Francis Drake Lewis Audley George Duncomb John Blackwell, younger Southwark. Samuel Highland Peter De La Noy Guildford. Maj. Gen. Thomas Kelsey Rigate, John Goodwin Sussex. Herbert Morley Sir John Pelliam John Flagg John Stapley Anthony Shirley George Courthoppe Sir Thomas Rivers Bar: Sir Thomas Parker Chichester, Hen: Peckham Lewis, Anthony Stapely Rye, Mr. Hayes Arundel, Sir John Trevor Warwick. Richard Lucy Sir Roger Burgoyne Edward Peyto Joseph Hawksworth Coventry City. William Purefoy Robert Beak Warwick Borough. Clement Throckmorton, jun. Worcester. Maj. Gen. James Berry Sir Thomas Rous Bar. Edward Pitt Nicholas Lechmore John Nanfan Worcester City. Edmond Giles William Collins Wilts. Sir Anthony Ashly-Cooper Sir Walter St. John Bar. Alexander Popham Thomas Grove Alexander Thistlewaite John Bulkley Richard Grubam-how William Ludlow Henry Hungerford Gabriel Martin New Sarum. William Stone James H●ely Marlebrough. Charles Fleetwood L: Gen: Devises, Edward Scotton Lancashire. Sir Richard Houghton Col. Standish Col. Holland Westmoreland. Christopher Lister Thomas Burton. WALES. George Twisleton Oriffith Bedwrda Col. Philip Jones Evan Lewis Col. John Clark James Phillip's Lord Cleypool Maj. Gen Rowland Dakins John Gly● Robert Williams Col. John Jones Col. John Cartar John Trevor Edmond Thomas John Price Hugh Price Charles Lloyd John Upton George Gwyn Henry Williams. SCOTLAND. Col. Mitchell Col. David Barclay Col. Winthrope Sir John Weyms L: of Boghe Sir Edward Rhodes Godfrey Rhodes Col. Talbot. John Lockhart Lord Cocktum Mr Disbrowe Judge Swyntoun Mr. Kerr Judge Advocate whaley Judge Smith Col. Salmon Sir James Mac-dowell The Earl of Tweeddale Robbert Woossey Sir Alexander Wedderburn Col. Henry Markham Col. Whetham Lord Precedent Broghill Lord Provost Ramsey Commissary, Lockhart Scoutmaster gen● Downing Alexander Dowglas. IRELAND. Lord Broghill Maj. Gen. Jephson Vincent Gookin Sir John Reynolds Col. Abbot Mr. Halsey Col. Sadler Maj. Redman Maj. Owen Sir Theophilus Jones Sir Hardresse Waller Maj. Morgan Mr. Bisse Mr. Tigh Col. Fowke Maj. Aston Mr. Blagny Lieut. Col. Newborough Lieut. Col. Berisford Ralph King Col. Cooper Lieut. Col. Tragle Col. Ingoldsby Walter Waller Sir Robert King Col. Bridges John Davis Maj. Potter Maj. Ratlife Col. Suttleworth. FINIS.