August. 19 1643.  
Ordered by the Commons in Parliament assembled, That this Ordinance be forthwith printed and published.  
H. Elsing Cler. Parl. D. Com.   

Colonel FIENNES LETTER TO MY LORD GENERAL, CONCERNING BRISTOL.  
This is licenced and entered according to Order.  
LONDON, Printed by T. P. and M. S. for Thomas underhill. 1643.   

Colonel FYNES Letter to my Lord general, concerning Bristol.  
May it please your excellency.  
SInce the surrender of Bristol (of which I desire to give an account before a council of War) I could not get any means to send to your excellency; and I would not have written at this time, but have myself waited upon your excellency, but that I find it necessary for me to stay here a day or two, to clear myself of such aspersions as are most unworthily laid upon me in this city, when I kept the Town so far beyond the enemy's expectation, that they began to believe we had gotten some fresh forces into the city, and held a solemn counsel of war (the results whereof I have, being found in colonel Burkes pocket, whom we slew amongst divers other Colonels and Officers of quality) whether they should proceed to fall upon the town by way of assault, or by way of approach. My Lord, I held that large Town with a handful of men against a greater army than ever yet the King had together, four days, being continually almost assaulted both by day and by night, and stormed by them in eight or nine places together, in so furious manner, as the like was never yet done in England, and the loss that they have received, doth testify as much: For there are near a thousand of them slain and maimed, besides a great many of their chief Officers, amongst the rest, Coll-Lunsford, Coll. Buck, Coll. Trevanian, Sir Nicholas Slaning, and divers others, and yet we lost not above eight men in service, and none of quality. The enemy was provided with all sorts of fireworks, as Granadoes, firepikes and the like, and with wanes full of Faggots, and broad Scaling Ladders, whereon four or six might climb up on a breast, and they made use of all those in a most desperate way, driving their wains of faggots into the ditches, and climbing up with their Fire pikes and granadoes in their hands, to the very portals of our great Ordnance, yet they were beaten back in 8 or 9 places together, and entered only in one place where the works were not perfected, there being no ditch as yet made, nor any foot-bank within side the breastworks; notwithstanding all this, and that they had entered the suburbs, and drawn the whole body of their foot to that place, yet our soldiers sallied out both Horse and Foot upon them, as they lay in the suburbs, and beat them back from street to street an hour and half together; but being overlaid with fresh companies, one seconding another, wherein we were not able to answer them, though they beat the enemy back most courageously at the first; insomuch that many of them ran away, threw down their Arms, and cried for quarter, yet being long overborne with fresh men which the enemy still drew down upon them, they were forced to retreat into the town; and then and not till then, the soldiers began to be disheartened, and whether out of weariness, or being discouraged, having been 5 days & nights together constantly upon duty, and in fight without any relief (for we could make no reserves) they began to slink away from their Colours and Guards, and get into houses, do what their Officers could, so that of 14. Companies, I could not make 120 men, although I proclaimed that all those that were upon the Guards, should repair to their Guards; and those that were not, should repair to the Marsh, and that there they should receive both money and victuals, but I could not get them to their Colours or Guards, although the enemy lay ready on the other side of the Key (which at low water, which then it began to be, may be waded over) to fall over into the Town, and no doubt in that condition that our guards were then in, both upon the Key, and in the Marsh, they might in less than half an hour, have fallen into the Town by force, and used their pleasures both upon the soldiers and upon the Citizens. Finding ourselves in this condition, I called a council of war, at which also Sir John Horner, Mr. Stevens, and other Gentlemen of the country, were present, I proposed to them our condition, and besides laid open to them, what store we had of Ammunition, that we had not of powder above 25 French barrels; and of match for above a day's space; that the Castle itself, the works not being finished, was not tenable above a day or two, for that the main wall would be battered in two several places, and that we had no expectation of relief against such a potent Army wherewith we were besieged, in one, two or three works. At the same instant, Mr. Major, and the sheriffs did earnestly entreat us, that seeing we could not keep the place, we would not ruin so famous a city to no purpose, nor expose so many men's persons and estates to violence and plundering. Upon all these considerations, it was unanimously resolved, that we should entertain a treaty with the enemy; and that if we could have reasonable conditions, that it were far better to save so many Commanders and soldiers both of Horse and Foot, and so many honest men's persons and estates, as well of our friends in the city, as of Gentlemen and others that came out of the countries adjacent, then to expose them all to destruction by attempting in a furious and mad way to defend the town or Castle for two or three days (if we could have held it so long) without any hope of holding them any longer, for I will put it upon that issue, and without any hope or expectation of any relief within that time, or a longer time after. Upon the treaty all things almost which we demanded, we obtained, excepting the Arms of the common soldiers, and our Colours, which being points of honour, I was resolved to have insisted upon, and so we broke off for a while. But upon the earnest suit of the Major and Citizens, and others, called together my Officers, and fell into a serious debate concerning it. And when I was very resolute not to quit the point, very many of my Captains came in and told us, that they could not get six of their Companies together, and that they ran away apace to the enemy over the Key, it being now low water; whereby they not only showed to the enemy, that our men were disheartened, and that they should have found but slender opposition; but also they showed them the way how they might readily fall over into the town, so soon as the treaty should break off, which undoubtedly they had done, and given us little leave to retreat into the Castle, or anywhere else, I must confess this Castle the balance in my thoughts, that caused me to yield to that Article, which otherwise I would never have done, supposing that we should quickly find arms again, preserving the horses and men of my Regiment of horse and foot (which had conditions been kept with me, I had preserved.) I have given your Excellence a true account of the carriage of this unhappy business, and of the causes of the surrendering of that city and Castle, together with the conditions whereupon they were yielded up. All which being considered and proved, as it shall, by many witnesses, against whom there can be no exception, I hope I shall not only stand clear in your lordship's eyes, and the eyes of all the world, but that it shall be acknowledged, that I have done most faithful service to those by whom I have been entrusted; and that in truth (which every indifferent man sees) the unhappy disaster which befell Sir William Waller's Army, did necessarily involve the fate of Bristol, both because I had unfurnished the city with men and Ammunition, to supply that Army: and it was necessary for me so to do, because the City was never put into a condition to subsist of itself against a royal Army, although I was not wanting to represent the importance of the place, and the means how it might be defended in certain propositions which I long since sent to your Lordship, and which were by your Excellency earnestly recommended to the Committee, but they were not brought to any effect. What my care and pains hath been to preserve that city, having the whole burden thereof for the providing of Men, Arms, Ammunition, and all sorts of provision cast upon me, having armed 3000 foot, and 300 horse, and paid constantly 2000 foot and a Regiment of Horse, for four or five months together, without ever having above 4000 pounds from the Parliament, and 1700l. of the custom moneys: What hath been my toil and labour to get moneys for these uses, without troubling the Parliament, how little advantage I have made for myself, how ready I have been to furnish Sir W. Waller with Men, Arms, Ammunition, Money, and all sorts of provision, (that I may say nothing of the hundreds of his maimed soldiers that have been cast upon my care and charge) I leave to my greatest enemies to speak the truth: for I know there cannot be found in the world so great malice as to deny it; and I appeal to him that knows all things, to judge between me and those that expect a greater tale of brick from me, and will not afford me straw wherewithal to make it; and I shall appeal to your Lordship, and all indifferent men, whether more could have been done by me, when as after the defeat of Sir W. Waller's Army, I had left only 700 men to defend that city against two such Armies as came against it, nor so much as one penny of money to raise more men, provide arms, or pay those men I had already; yet God enabled me in five days, to raise and Arm 1000 men more, and with those 1700 men, and that Ammunition I had left, I made that defence that I have done, of which I am sure I shall never have cause to be ashamed of, nor do I believe that your Lordship will be ashamed to own me still, as  
Your Excellencies most humble Servant, NATH. FIENNES.  
We whose names are under-written, do know the narrative part of this letter to be true according as it is here set down.  


John Horner,  
John Fiennes,  
John Clifton,  
Gabriel Homes,  
Tho. Raulins,  
Henry Archbould.  
John Birch,  
Edward Tyson,  
Robert Johnston  
Chr. Stokes,  
Robert Bagnall.    
FINIS.   

Mercurius Aulicus, Communicating the Intelligence and affairs of the Court, to the rest of the kingdom.  
The two and thirtieth week.  

SUNDAY. August▪ 6.  
YOu heard last week of the affrights and terrors which the prevailing faction in the pretended Houses were fallen into, by reason of the sad condition of their affairs in most parts abroad; and shall now hear of the confusions and distractions they are in at home: the upper House bandying against the Lower, the Lower at a rupture amongst themselves, and the Army in as great distemper as both the Houses. For it was certified this day (and had been rumoured two or three days before) that the Lords had ordered that the Earl of Portland and the Lord Conway should be bailed (whom formerly they had committed upon a general impeachment from the House of Commons▪) And though it was much pressed by Master Strode▪ that There would be no sitting for them, if those Lords were released and restored to the freedom of their Votes again▪ yet the Order stood, and the two Lords were bailed accordingly: four of the peers which heretofore had dearly cherished the proceedings of that House, being bound for them; which added much unto the heat and fury of their discontent. As also that two Bills being sent up to the Lords, the one for levying the estates of all whom they style Malignants, according to the newly enlarged Ordinance for Sequestrations; the other for the continuance of the weekly assessments, were both rejected by that House. Which moved Master Martin to propose, as he had done before on the like occasions, that they would pass them of themselves without the Lords, whose suffrage and consent he conceived as unnecessary as the Kings in things pertaining to the Commons: but wiser heads thought fitter to pass by the motion, they being now in no condition for so great a breach.  
As for the Lower House it was also signified, that on the rising of the House on Saturday July 29. Master Pym moved that they would hear some Propositions from the Earl of Essex: but the House having all that day attended the leisure of the Close Committee without doing any thing, would not be persuaded, but rose immediately; to the great disgust of that Committee, who formerly had been looked upon with more observance. But this was but the beginning of a greater storm. For at the next meeting it was moved that the Close Committee should be dissolved, many considerable men inveighing bitterly against it, as the cause of all those miseries which afflict this kingdom. And when that could not be effected; it was proposed and carried at the last by the major part, that a Committee should be nominated to take an account of the Close Committee, and of all others which were trusted with receipts or disbursements of money; and that none of the Close Committee, nor any which had fingered any of the public moneys was to have a voice in it: it being affirmed in the House, that great sums of money had been drawn from the city and Country (to the sum of three millions at the least, as was before alleged) whereof although the Earl of Essex had not received 300000l, Waller and Fairefax both not above 30000l, yet the Armies were continually in want of pay. And though Strode and others of the Close Committee did oppose it openly, saying, it called that power in question which had been given them by the House; and used all cunning Artifices, and underhand devices not to have it pass; yet it was carried in the end▪ the Lords concurring also in it, and nominating a Committee of their House to the same intent. Which hath begot such true fears & jealousies▪ & raised such a distrust of one another, that it is thought the Houses will be too hot for some potent Members, who heretofore did govern the affairs of both, and were as uncontrollable amongst them there, as ever were the Tribunes in the State of Rome.  
Last of all for the Armies, it was thus advertised that the Earl of Essex finding himself abused in Pictures, censured in Pulpits, dishonoured in the tabletalk of the common people, and a design on foot of raising a new Army, under the conduct of Sir William Waller, which would soon put an end unto his authority, made complaint of it to the Lords, by them to be communicated to the other House: requiring that his Army be forthwith paid, and furnished with clothes and all other necessaries, his broken and diseased Forces presently recruited, reparation to be given him in point of honour, for all the calumnies and scandals which falsely (as he saith) have been laid upon him, that Waller be called to an account for the loss of his Forces in the West; and finally, that no Commission may be issued out to any one to have the charge and conduct of any Forces, but by his authority. Which bold demands, though very unwelcome to the city-faction in the Lower House, who had resolved otherwise amongst themselves; yet the Lords ordered for their parts (referring the payment and clothing of the soldiers to the care of the Commons) that his Army should be first recruited before any other Forces raised, that he and his Army should have reparation by a Declaration of both Houses, for all the scandals vented against them, that the miscarriage of the business in the West should be examined, and the blame laid on those whom it did belong to; and finally, that whosoever was appointed to any charge or command, should take his Commission from his excellency only, and depend on him; and that he should have power to call back such Commissions, as he saw occasion. And it is further certified, that though these Votes may give content unto the general, which was the matter most intended, yet do they yet much displease the faction in the House of Commons, and infinitely distaste the Citizens, who are resolved to raise neither men nor money, if Waller may not have ordering and disposing of them, and this they sticking not to say openly as they walk the streets. And on the other side, Waller, and those who have before served under him are so enraged by these Votes, that an implacable and deadly feud is very like to grow amongst them, so as there is some hope when these plundering thieves once fall out, true men will come the sooner to their goods.   

MONDAY. Aug. 7.  
We have been long in the intelligence of the former day, but shall be breifer in the next; the most of which comes from London also. For it was certified from thence, that they were more disanimated at the loss of Bristol (when first the news was suffered to be known amongst them) then at all their former losses in the North and West; and that as soon as the news came unto the Houses, the prevalent faction there gave Exeter for as good as lost, especially since the Earl of Warwick was come thence with his fleet, and had done nothing towards the relief of it, but added much unto their desperate condition by being so shamefully repulsed. And it was also certified that they had other fears which did more afflict them, upon the sight of certain letters from the Major of Plymouth to the Earl of Warwick, in which was signified that Sir Alexander Carew, and Master Thomas Arundel their governors of the Fort & Island of Plymouth, were suspected to incline unto the King: which did so startle them, that presently they caused letters to be sent unto them, commanding them as Members of the House of Commons to return to Westminster, to do their service to the House. But it was thought the Gentlemen had heard too much of Hotham, to put themselves into their hands, who show so little favour unto those that deserved best of them in their present Rebellion.  
It was also certified from Bristol that for a speedier ending of the siege of Exeter, and the total reducing of the West under His majesty's command, (that so his Armies might unite for some other service) Prince Maurice with the Cornish forces and some troops of horse, with many gallant Gentlemen who would needs attend him in the Action, was gone towards Devonshire; whose going thither, as it was generally conceived, would quickly put an end to that business. As also that for the settling of the affairs of Bristol, His Majesty had made that noble and deserving Gentleman Sir Ralph Hopton governor of the town and Castle; and under him, that valiant Colon. Washington Lieutenant governor of the Castle, to the general content of all men.  
It was also signified from London, that this last week hath been a terrible week of news to that falling faction. For besides the deadly news from Bristol (the loss whereof doth more astonish them then all the rest of their misfortunes in the North and West) and that they have given Exeter for as good as lost: they have been miserably vexed with Letters from Gloucester, Coventry, and Warwick, complaining of their several wants, but specially of the backwardness of the people to make good those places, or contribute to the work, as formerly, since this change of things; and plainly signifying, that unless speedy supplies be sent of Men, arms, and Money, (neither of which the pretended Houses can afford them at the present time) they are not able to hold out against His majesty's Forces, but of necessity must give up those towns on the first assault.   

TUESDAY. August 8.  
It was advertised this day that the prevailing party in the House of Commons had refused to concur to many of the Votes, which had been passed by the Lords in favour of the Earl of Essex; which breeds ill blood, not only betwixt them and the Lords, but betwixt the soldiery and them: and that considering that no Commission must be granted but by and from the Earl of Essex, the Independent Army which was so much talked of, is come to nothing; insomuch that Sir William Waller hath not yet listed above 600 of the 20000 which the City promised him. And it is further certified that the town is very much divided about the business of Bristol, some imputing the loss of it to Fines, and some to Waller, according as they stand affected to either party: and that the disputation grew to so great an height between Sir William and my Lord Say, (who you must think would not allow his son to be a Coward, though he can cherish him in a murder) that the lie passed between them. As also, that Sir William Waller begins to be discontented with his friends the Citizens, who so much admired him being absent, and promised him such mighty matters, if he would honour them with his presence. For whereas on the first of this present August, he went into the new Artillery yard to list those multitudes of men which had long expected him; the appearance was so thin and small, that he was very much ashamed of the disappointment. And when the new Committee nominated in the city Petition, told him that was no place to do the feat in, but they would go presently to haberdasher's Hall, and appoint Commanders to receive them; and then he should see with what alacrity the people would come in unto him: that on the other side did as much offend him, to see he should not have the nominating of his own Commanders. So that, for aught we can perceive by the preparations, the conqueror is like to add little to his Western victories by the city Army.  
It was advertised also that some of the more peaceable Lords (to say no worse) taking advantage of the slow success which Waller found in raising his Army, and of their losses in the West, proposed the renewing of the Treaty; desiring that such Propositions might be sent His majesty, as they might reasonably hope would be harkened to. Which being agreed on by the rest, and a Committee named for the Propositions, they drew them to some certain heads, such as might give some little show of satisfaction to His majesty, but more security unto themselves, and a free pardon to all those who have been either Instruments or Authors of this Rebellion. And yet this pleased not my Lord Say, who by chance was absent, and therefore when he came next into the House, he laboured very earnestly to have them altered, and prevailed in it at the last. Insomuch, that whereas it was first agreed on, that the Ships, Forts, towns, Magazines, and Revenues should be delivered to the King, without any condition; and if the Parliament should be adjourned to some other place, being the only points in which there was any show of satisfaction to His sacred majesty; he obtained to have both of them altered, and put into such general terms as might best suit unto the humour of his friends in the other House. But being the business stayed not here, but broke out into greater and more public heats; you shall hear more of it after a day or two.   

WEDNESDAY. Aug. 9  
It was advertised this day that the Castle and Isle of Portland (Whereof St Edw. Sydenham Knight Marshal was & is Governor) were reduced again under his majesty's command, which had been taken by the rebels about March last. The manner how it was regained is reported thus. A Gentleman well known unto the rebels which had the guard of the Castle, and used to be much there for his own safety and preservation in these dangerous times, came to the noble Earl of Carnarvan, and gave him very good assurance that if he would trust him with 60 of his men he would forthwith make him Master of the Isle and Castle: the Earl considering that the Castle and Isle were richly worth the adventuring of 60 muskets, having taken so many arms at Dorchester, condescended he should have them: which being obtained the Gentleman furnished them with Parliament colours, and making towards the Castle with so confused a speed as if he fled from an Enemy, called upon the guards and told them he had brought some Parliament forces to make good the place; but that they were pursued so closely by the Earl of Carnarvan; that if they had not speedy entrance they should all be lost. This was no sooner heard by the credulous Rebels, but all the haste was made that could be to set open the Ports: at which His majesty's Soldiers entered, and seizing on the guards, who looked not for such unwelcome visitants▪ made themselves masters of it without further trouble. A place of very great importance, as having the command of the haven and town of Weymouth, against which it lieth, and as the case then stood, of most infinite wealth, all the rich household stuff and Treasure which had been taken by the rebels out of Wardour Castle with a great deal more of goods plate and money, being stored up there.  
It was also certified from those parts, that Poole Melcombe, & Weymouth which were in treaty with the Earl of Carnarvan (as you heard the last week) upon the yielding up of Dorchester, have since submitted to His majesty: so that all Dorsetshire is totally reduced again to its old obedience; which cannot but very much conduce to the dispatch of the work at Exeter, and consequently to the absolute and final settling of all the West. And it was also signified, that a ship of His majesty's Navy called the Charles, being the ship of the second rank, had left the Earl of Warwick, and was come to Folmouth, according to His majesty's Proclamation of the 7 of July. Nor is it (in my mind) without some good Omen, that the first ship of strength and burden, which did obey that invitation should be the CHARLES.   

THURSDAY. August. 10.  
It was advertised this day that the Lord Capell with his forces appeared before the Walls of Namptwich, in hope to find them in a disposition of returning to his majesty's service; considering how His majesty's affairs had thrived and prospered, not only in raising the siege of Chester, but in clearing of the North and West from the power of the rebels. But finding them continue in their wonted obstinacy, he fell off again, and retreated safely to his own quarters, with the loss of sixteen only of his men. And on the other side to make amends for the defailement of this hope (for it was no more) we had intelligence this day, that the Lord Willoughby of Parham being gone from Gainsburgh, on his redelivery of that town, had recovered Lincoln. But seeing an impossibility that either Cromwell should time enough recruit his beaten and distracted forces, or that he could receive any seasonable supplies from London; on the first news that the Earl of Newcastle was coming towards him, he forsook the place, and made what haste he could to Boston: leaving the City and Close of Lincoln, which he had nested in so long, to be the next example (as we have had very many lately) of God's great mercy to His sacred Majesty.  
It was also signified this day, that the heats in London (according to the season) do still increase; and that the discontents which have late been growing between the remaining party in the two Houses, are at the last improved to a sedition, if not unto a civil war amongst themselves. For howsoever the Lord Say had so far altered the Propositions, intended by some peaceable Lords to be presented to His Majesty, as to make them of a better relish to the Lower House: yet when they came into that House, they were very eagerly opposed, and the House continued sitting until nine at night; in hope such men as durst declare themselves to be well-affected, would be wearied with their long debates; and they of the malignant faction, might there carry matters upon that advantage as they had done formerly. But finding that they sat it out, and carried it for the Propositions by the major part; they had no other way to effect the business, then to return again to their former practices, and bring down their City Club-men to awe the Members of both Houses, and repeal those Votes. And so accordingly they did. For the next day, being Sunday last, they had so fashioned and prepared their party in the City of London, that printed Bills were set up on the Church doors, (and somewhat you must think was done in the Pulpits too) a copy whereof we here offer you.  
All such as desire there may be a general raising of the people against those Irish Rebels, and blood thirsty Papists now in arms, (fully purposing to destroy us, our Religion. Laws and Liberties) are desired to meet at Westminster Hall, to morrow morning by nine of the clock, being the seventh day of this instant August▪ to move the Parliament that this may be put in speedy execution.  
Twenty thousand Irish Rebels are appointed to come over against us.  
According to which intimation, the Rabble came in such multitudes, and with so great clamour, that such of the Lords and Commons who had favoured the Propositions, were forced to take boat and make haste towards Kingston, where the Earl of Essex then lay with that part of his Forces, which God's hand and the King's sword had left alive: conceiving that the declaring of themselves in favour of him (of which you heard at full before) had been sufficient to oblige him fast unto their party. But contrary to their hopes and expectation they found him so resolved for the other side, as they were fain to dispose otherwise of themselves. And it is said, that, notwithstanding those indignities which have been offered to him by the City faction, he is so much inclined that way, that upon notice sent unto him, that the women had made an uproar in demand of peace, he sent some Troops of Horse amongst them, and killed three of them: for which (and some other former courtesies) that sex will ever honour him and his posterity.  
On Wednesday last a party of Horse (about fifty) were sent out from Banbury towards Towceter (commanded by captain James Chamberlain) twenty of this number divided and went towards Northampton; the other thirty within less than a mile of Towceter met with the Rebels Forces, in number about one hundred and twenty, commanded by captain Lawson, which though they had so great advantage in number, yet captain Chamberlain very valiantly charged through them with part of his men, (his rear falling off from him) and with that small strength maintained a sharp fight with them above half an hour, wherein he received many wounds, and at last was shot dead through the head, and one of his men also. Of the Rebels there are at least 20 sore wounded, as by intelligence from Northampton (where they are) is certified, and five were carried away behind them dead from the place. one left on the ground, and Captain Lawson himself wounded. This gentleman was the youngest brother to Sir Thomas Chamberlain now high sheriff of this County, and was in most of the principal Fights, at Worcester, Keynion, Brainsford, &c. where his valour was eminently manifested, and by this last action wherein he lost his life, hath added further to the honour of that worthy and loyal Family.   

FRIDAY. August▪ 11.  
This day we were certified by Letters from York, that about four hundred of the Rebels of Lancashire came stealing into Yorkshire, hoping to have surprised some of His majesty's horse quarters about Halifax; which being timely perceived by Sir Francis Mackworth, he fell upon them and routed them, killed above forty in the place, and took fifty, the rest (as they were taught) ran away, and escaped by the advantage of the place.  
At Coventry they pull down many houses of the Suburbs, and tell the people that the King's Army is marching towards them with twenty pieces of Ordnance, and they had some reason▪ for this day we received an express that his Majesty yesterday sat down before Gloucester, and sent in a most Gracious Summons to the City, in these very words, Out of our tender Compassion to Our City of Gloucester, and that it may not receive Prejudice by Our Army, which We cannot prevent, if We be compelled to assault it, We are personally come before it to require the same, and are graciously pleased to let all the Inhabitants of, and all other Persons within that City, as well soldiers as others, know, That if they shall immediately submit themselves, and deliver this our City to us, we are contented freely and absolutely to pardon every one of them without exception; And do assure them in the word of a KING, that they nor any of them shall receive the least damage or Prejudice by our Army in their Persons, or Estates; But that we will appoint such a governor, and a moderate Garrison to reside there, as shall be both for the ease and security of that City and that whole County. But if they shall neglect this proffer of Grace and Favour, and compel us by the Power of Our Army to reduce that place (which by the help of God We doubt not We shall be easily and shortly able to do) they must thank themselves for all the Calamities and Miseries must befall them. To this Message We expect a clear and positive answer within two hours after the publishing hereof▪ And by these presents do give leave to any Persons safely to repair to▪ and return from us whom that City shall desire to employ unto us in that business. And do require all the Officers and soldiers of Our Army▪ quietly to suffer them to pass accordingly. But this Rebellious City answered, that they would obey His majesty's commands as they were signified by the two Houses of Parliament. And now let the world judge if His majesty could have sent a more Gracious Message to His most loyal Subjects, and whether these desperate Rebels deserve any mercy, who after so many offers do still refuse a pardon. But since their returning this Rebellious Answer, they have set their own Suburbs on fire, which surely is not to keep the City either for the KING or Parliament. Yet His majesty's Forces quenched the fire, and in spite of the rebels, entered the Suburbs where still they are, and have already raised Mounts, and digged trenches so near the City wall, that I dare promise you (God willing) a very speedy account of the siege of Gloucester.   

SATURDAY. August 12.  
This day news was brought to Town of Sir William Waller's extraordinary progress in raising the great Army intended for him. You heard before how the good women flocked to Westminster on Tuesday last, to cry out for peace; three of the which were killed directly in the place, and thirteen or fourteen more most shrewdly wounded. And the next day, to show the men were better studied in the point then so, came down some 5 or 6000 of the usual hackster's, which had been always ready for such purposes at a minute's warning; and they cried No peace. And being told by some who were appointed to return the Answer, that they who were for the continuance of the war, (as every one of them seemed to be) should go to haberdasher's Hall, and there list themselves under the conduct and command of Sir William Waller: it wrought so much upon the courage of those gallant spirits, (Reader, thou canst not choose but wonder at such monstrous forwardness) that of 5000 men which would have no peace, no fewer than fifteen sturdy fellows (in words at length and not in figures) listed their names upon the Roll to pursue the war. And some of those perhaps may see Gloucester one day.  
It was advertised this day also, that 200 of the Rebels by the appointment of Sir William Brereton, have laid siege to Eccleshall Castle in Staffordshire, (an house belonging to the Lord Bishop of Coventry and Lichfield;) the greatest part of those who are shut up in it, being Ladies and Gentlewomen of that County, who purposely came thither to secure themselves in these times of danger. And that they are so gallantly resolved upon it, that though their victuals do begin to fail already, they mean to stand upon their guard and defend the place (in hope His majesty will relieve them ere it come to that) as long as they have horse flesh, water, and old leather left to preserve nature. Which as it shows the bravery and courage of those noble Ladies, so is it an infallible argument of the incivility and rudeness of those barbarous Rebels (who regard neither sex nor quality of persons) from whom the best that can be looked for, is more unsufferable than the miseries of war and famine.  
This day there came to town from London, the Earl of Lindsey▪ Lord Great chamberlain of England, and Sir George Radcliffe; the first took Prisoner at Edge-hill, the second made a Prisoner by appointment of the House of Commons at the beginning of this Parliament: but by what means and accident they are at liberty, is not yet made known to me.  
But because the Rebels are now so far vanquished, that they despair of their designs, they resolve (like bloody cowards) to make use of all base advantages, for which end they are now beginning to ship away beyond sea such of His majesty's good Subjects as are in their custody; and we were this day informed, that Mudford alias Murford (that infamous brownistical governor of Southampton) hath this week taken a learned ingenuous Gentleman one Mr Jones of Lincoln's inn, and others out of Prison, and sent them by sea to New-England, or some such other place as the devil and they think fittest for their punishment, making the said Master Jones to pass through the streets by his own door, but would not suffer him to take leave, or speak with his Wife, or any other friend or Kinsman to furnish him with linen and other necessaries for this unexpected voyage; and that yesterday their brother Rebels at London conveyed colonel Goring▪ Sir George Sands, Sir John Goodrick and other gentlemen (three or four Coaches full) to the water side on shipboard, there to lie under hatches like slaves of Algiers, expecting every hour how this barbarous bloody faction will dispose of them. Nor is this strange if you consider their devotion, for this aforesaid Mudford sent up his Levite into the pulpit at Southampton, to move the people to take the New Covenant, who (like a Priest of their Religion) fell on cursing (praying they call it) in these very words bless the King, O Lord, mollify his hard heart which delighteth in blood, open his eyes that he may see that the blood of thy Saints is dear in thy sight; He is fallen from faith in thee, and become an enemy to thy Church: Is it not He that hath sinned and done evil indeed? but as for these sheep, what have they done? Let thine hand, we pray thee O Lord our God, be on Him and on His father's house, but not on thy people that they should be plagued. And (to let you see both Priest and people are of the same profession) Saint-barbe himself after he had taken the Covenant said aloud before many witnesses, that he had rather see the kingdom in a flame, then that the King should prevail against this cause they have undertaken. This is pure Protestant Religion, such as their brother Judas scarce finds among the damned. And it was also signified by Letters from Winchester, that this aforesaid Murford in pursuance of his former threats to the prentices of South-hampton (whereof you heard last week) for refusing to take the rebellious new Covenant, sent one Thornborough, Riggs, and divers others to Portsmouth, where they are lodged in such a dungeon, as they are not able to stand upright, but are forced to do their necessary acts of nature in the same place where the poor men must make their lodging: And yet the Newes-men at London have the impudence to tell us in print, that nobody hath been punished for refusing their Covenant. And in the same Letters it is advertised that the Maior of Southampton (a very ancient man) is so over awed by this Murford, that being lately come from the two Houses (whose prisoner he hath been these eleven weeks for his loyalty to his sovereign) he must not now be suffered to go out of the town gates▪ but every common soldier by Murfords command forceth him back again; in such contempt is the King's Lieutenant amongst this faction; and all this out of Whitehead of Portsmouth his malice to the Maior, because he would not deliver the keys of the town to him when he demanded them for the two Houses; the good old Maior (being a Jer●y man) answering him, Me no hang for you Master Whitehead, you hang for yourself.  
This day also we received a copy of Isaac Pennington's Petition against peace, (though moulded and penned by John Pym himself) desiring the House of Commons, or rather commanding them to persist in this war (though they perish in the work;) and tendering a form of an Ordinance to press and force every man rich and poor (excepting some few) to take arms for this cause, or pay ten pounds a piece; which accordingly was voted, and the Petitioners had thanks returned them from the House.  
This day we saw a printed Ordinance from the two pretended Houses, for the speedy raising and levying of a weekly contribution towards the maintenance of their Army, to be paid by the several Counties and Cities of this kingdom for two months together: as for example, the city of Chester is to pay weekly unto the two Houses 62l. The County of Cornwall 625l. The city of York 62l. The County of Salop 375l. The city of Lichfield 5l. Bristol 55l. Worcester 16l. The County of Worcester 500l. Oxford 400l. If the worthy Members will come to these places, the money lies ready for them.  
The Earl of Northampton this week intercepted divers Letters from London, wherein we see such pretty devices as the Brethren use to cheat one another; One writes, That 3000 Cavaleirs were slain at the taking of Bristol. Another, That Waller will be 30000 Horse, and 20000 Foot. Another, Th●● Waller is 8000 strong already. Another, That 20000 Scot● are come as far as Berwick. Another, That the Scots will not come, because the Citizens have no money. Another, That all is lost except spiritual comfort. Another, That the Earl of Essex would have all their soldiers leave their Garrisons, and come away with their arms, lest they be all taken by the King. Another, That Gloucester cannot be relieved. Another, That the rotten Lords (a pretty-pretty epithet) would now have Peace. Another, That now they must no longer trust in the Parliament. Another, That the loss of Bristol hath discovered many false hearts, who only had creature-confidence. Another, That to vote for peace now, was like the plot of the Trojan horse, and like Saul, to fly in distress to the Witch of Endor; with a world more of such excellent expressions, as do trouble me to want paper for them.  
And the Printed Newes-men are this week turned Preachers, urging Scripture (in place of news) against fainting in tribulation, yet ever and anon sprinkling a lie: as 1. That the Lord Digby hath one troop of Spanish Papists: (My Lord thanks you for raising a new troop for him; but he thinks you mean the walloons at Fulham, allowed to have mass by the Close Committee. 2. That the Lord Willoughby of Parham's soldiers marched out of Gainsborough with all their arms: (You were cudgeled for this the last week, and yet you are at it again.) 3. That the King commands to kill men for fearing God, (for labouring to murder him in the fear of God; fear God, obey the Parliament.) 4. That Sir William Waller hath many thousands of men: (yes, at Round-way down.) 5. That those men are most of them good lusty Butchers (to knock down the ox at Kingston.) 6. That Sir William went in triumph to butcher's Hall near Newgate: (he went himself now, but next time he shall be brought to Newgate.) Lastly, That the Close Committee had news that Dorchester, Weymouth, and Lincoln, were delivered up to the King's Forces, and yet were not disheartened at it: I think it would please them to see one another hanged; which God for his mercy's sake, &c.   
FINIS.