A true and perfect RELATION OF THE WHOLE TRANSACTION CONCERNING The PETITION of the Six Counties of South-wales, and the County of Monmouth, formerly presented to the Parliament of the Commonwealth, of ENGLAND, For a supply of Godly Ministers, And an Account of Ecclesiastical Revenues therein: With the PARLIAMENTS Resolves, and Proceed thereupon. Now humbly Represented to his Highness the Lord PROTECTOR'S Consideration. Published by A. G. LONDON Printed by J. G. for Math. Ekins, at the Gun in St. Paul's Churchyard, 1654. To his most Excellent Highness, OLIVER Lord Protector of the Commonwealth of England, Scotland, and Ireland, and the Dominions thereunto belonging. May it please your Highness, THe Nation of Wales, being described to the former Parliament to be overspread with Ignorance and Profaneness. Was by the Members thereof, Taken into consideration, And passed an Act for the better Propagation, and Preaching of the Gospel in Wales; For the putting whereof in execution divers Commissioners were Authorized, and impowered to Amove and Eject those of the Ministry, whom they conceived to be unworthy: And persons were Nominated to Recommend, and approve, such men, as they should judge fit for the advancement of the Gospel in those Countries. The Commissioners according to their Authority, proceeded in the work; So that in a short space, the Ancient Clergy were (for the most part) indiscriminally ejected, The Tithes Sequestered, The Parishes left unsupplied, The blessed Ordinance of Christ taken away from the Inhabitants, And they wholly debarred from any spiritual comfort to their precious Souls, by any Power or dispensation of Gospel- Ministry, but what they must receive from some few Itinerants in their uncertain meetings. This (out of a Soule-saving necessity) stirred up the spirits of many of the conscientious Inhabitants to present that pious Petition of South-wales to the Honourable House. But the Petitioners their Council, and Solicitors have been prejudiced in their Reputation, for discharging their duty therein to God, and their native Country, and rendered thereby uncapable of serving the same; And have been traduced to have failed to prove, and make good the Matters exhibited in the Petition; Which constrains me to publish this Narrative of the whole Transaction and Proceed of the Parliament, with their Resolves in Referring the same to the Committee for Plundered Ministers; As also to make truly evident unto public view the Petitioners particular charge, the Commionssiers Answer, with the Petitioners Reply thereunto, as they were lodged with the Clerk for the Committee, according to their several Original Copies, Orders and Reports, Protesting, that I have not the least thought out of malice, or selfe-ends to asperse or calumniate any man's Person; But only to set down matters of fact for the manifestation of Truth, to vindicate the Petitioners, their Council, and Solicitors from all malignant design in promoting the Petition, Either to discourage the godly, or to bring into Authority any Malignant or illaffected persons, Or re-investing unworthy, and scandalous Ministers. All which I have made bold in the fear of God, and power of his Grace, to spread most humbly before your Highness. That seeing the Promises of good things do already shine both in Church and State by your Highness his Protection and Government; Why should the poor Inhabitanes of Wales despair to make known their grievances, and Represent their sad spiritual Condition before your Christian-Eys, who (perhaps) have not had as yet a full discovery thereof? Who knows, But that the Lord (who had hid these things from such as were formerly in Authority) Hath reserved the same for your Highness' Care, That the People may have Cause to praise and bless God for you, whom he hath designed to Perform so glorious a Work, as to Restore the Comfort of the Blessed Ordinances of Christ's Gospel unto their Nation again. You are now become not only Petra, a Foundation, whereon the People must rest: In vos domus omnis Inclinata Recumbit. but also Pastor Israelis, a Shepherd to provide Pastures for the People, The Lord in his Mercy direct you to Act what is conducible to his Glory, the peace of your own Conscience, and the good and welfare of the People under your Protection, prayeth, Your Highness' most humbly in all Christian Services to be Commanded, Alex. Griffith. March. 23. 1653. The PETITION of the Six Counties of South-wales, and the County of Monmouth, with a Narrative of the Parliament Resolves thereupon; And the Proceed before the Committee for Plundered Ministers, to whom it was Referred by the Honourable House; faithfully transcribed, and herein expressed according to the several Original Orders. The tenth of March, 1651. Col. Edward Freeman Attorney General for the Commonwealth in South-wales (as Council, and at the request of the Petitioners) attended with several of the Petitioners did present a Petition to the then Supreme Authority, The Parliament of the Commonwealth of England, Entitled The humble Petition of several of the Inhabitants of the Six Counties of South-wales, and County of Monmouth, well-affected to the Parliament, and present Government, on the behalf of themselves and the rest of the Inhabitants there, in these words following, (viz.) SHOWETH▪ THat your Petitioners cannot but with all humbleness acknowledge your Honours constant care, 1. The Petition divided into 9 Heads. in providing for the supply of their spiritual necessities, and the advancement of the Gospel of Christ, and particularly in passing the Act of the 22 of February 1649. Entitled an Act for the Propagation of the Gospel in Wales, so much really intended by your Honours, which filled the hearts of your Petitioners, and all the Inhabitants of Wales with joy and gladness in hopes to find the fruits thereof accordingly: Nevertheless your Petitioners humbly show, That since the passing of the said Act, all or most of the Ministers of South wales and County of Monmouth, have been and stand Ejected from their Benefices, and but few or none of the said respective Counties have been supplied with any competent number of Godly, able Teachers, to officiate in the Rooms of the outed Ministers. Neither hath there been provided any conventient number of godly Schools for the education of Children, and advancement of learning as was intended by your Honours, and the true purport of the said Act, as they humbly conceive there being not above four or five Itinerary Teachers in some of the said Counties, appointed and approved of to teach the Gospel. Whereas some of the said Counties do consist of above six score Parishes, and the least of fifty or threescore, many whereof have at least two thousand Souls. That some persons deriving Authority from the said Act, have for these two years last passed received and disposed of all the profits of the Tithes of Church-livings, and all other Benefices and Impropriations sequestered, within the said six Counties of South-wales and County of Monmouth, which are annually worth twenty thousand pound or thereabouts; Out of which little hath been converted towards the Propagation of the Gospel, or accounted for to the State. That for want of the due Execution of the said Act, your Petitioners together with the said Inhabitants endure a Famine of the Word of God; Children are not bred up in the Instruction and Information of the Lord; The vast revenues of the outed Ministers are set out at extraordinary undervalues. The Churches are in most places shut up, and the Fabric thereof ready to fall to the ground for want of Repair. Neither can the Inhabitants take notice of your Honour's Acts, Edicts and Proclamations (wherein the public Welfare, the Liberty and Safety of their persons, and estates are concerned) for want of a fitting number of Teachers in each County to publish the same. Your Petitioners therefore out of their duty to God, the preservation of the Souls of the Inhabitants of their Country, the Commonwealth's interest, and the earnest desire they have that your Honour's most pious intentions expressed in the said Act, may be accordingly observed; Do hold themselves bound in conscience, out of Christian and Soule-saving necessity, to present the premises to your Honour's consideration. Earnestly beseeching your Honours in pursuance of your wont zeal, and unfeigned Affection to God's Glory, and the Increase of true Religion, Learning and Piety, to take such a course for the future supply of their respective Counties, with such convenient number of Godly able Teachers, and for Provisions of Schools and Nurseries of Learning and Religion there; As also to call to account such persons as have received the profits of the said Tithes, Church-livings and prebend's, and the Sequestered Impropriations as to your Honour's grave wisdom shall seem meet. And your Petitioners shall as in duty bound most humbly pray, etc. 2. The presenting thereof to the Parliament, by Col. Freeman, and his Speech. At the presenting of the Petition, Col. Freeman being come to the Bar, did deliver at the request of the Petitioners, the true sense and meaning of the Petition and Petitioners, and the sum of their desires, for a more clear demonstration of their real intentions therein, in these words, (viz.) Mr. SPEAKER, IT was the desire of many well-affected Gentry, and other Inhabitants of South-wales, That I should present to your Grave consideration this Petition, and withal humbly to beg you will be pleased to believe they desire not to bring in any scandalous ejected Ministers (as some out of prejudice to the Petitioners do suggest) but such as this Honourable House shall approve of, and only such shall be most gratefully entertained by them: A Soule-saving necessity hath constrained them to this humble address, who for above two year's last passed have lived in darkness, the light of the Gospel being almost extinguished, shining only in some few corners of the Country, and engrossed into particular distinct Congregations, which are not above four or five in most Counties in Southwales, & how four or five Itineraryes can supply a whole County, (most of the Counties consisting of eighty, or a hundred Parishes) is humbly left to your Honour's grave consideration. The Inhabitants of Southwales are not only destitute of a convenient number of Ministers, but also of able Schoolmasters, to the decay of Religion, and Learning. And nevertheless the vast Revenue of the outed Clergy and all Sequestered Tithes, Impropriations, Glebe's▪ and other Ecclesiastical Live (amounting to a great value) is received by persons deriving Authority from the Act of the 22 of Febru. 1649 which was really intended by this Honourable House, for the true propagation of the Gospel, who do let and set out the same to Friends, Creatures, and Alliance of their own at extraordinary undervalues, to the prejudice of the State, and the gain of private persons. (Mr. Speaker) This innocent Petition hath no design in it against the Common wealth, or any particular persons; All that the Petitioners crave from this Honourable house, is a convenient number of able godly Teachers, and Schoolmasters, such as you shall approve of, and an account for the profits and Revenues of the Churches received for these two last years. As we aim herein, at the Glory of God, and the public good, so let God bless us, and give a gracious issue to our humble desires. The Petitioners being withdrawn, the said Petition was read, and taken into consideration, and thereupon the Parliament passed the ensuing Resolves, viz. 3. The Resolution of the Parliament. The 10 of March 1651. 1. Resolved by the Parliament, that it be referred to the Committee for plundered Ministers to examine this business, and to state matters of fact, and Report their opinions therein to the Parliament, with power for the same Committee to send for Persons, Papers, and Witnesses. 2. Resolved, That the same Committee have power to examine upon Oath, and to authorise such Commissioners in the Country as they shall think fit to examine witnesses upon Oath, touching any the matters contained in the Petition, and to return those examinations to the said Committee. 4. The transmitting of th● Petition, an● Resolves to th● Committee fo● plundered Minister's. And the same day the said Petition and Resolves were transmitted to the Honourable Committee for plundered Ministers, to whom the same was referred. And it was then Ordered▪ That the same should be taken into consideration on the 16 of March following, on which day several of the Petitioners with their Councillors and Solicitors did attend the said Committee with Commissioners Names, 5 The Petitioners with Council, and Solicitors attend the Committee, 16 Martii. which they offered and prayed a Commission, directed to those Gentlemen, or such other persons as the Honourable Committee should think fit, to examine the matters contained in the said Petition in the Country, where the witnesses resided, and matters of fact did rise, according to the said Resolves of Parliament. 6. Major Gen Harrison excepts against the generality of the Petition, requiring a particular charge, and the Solicitors Answer. At which time some of the Committee, especially Major General Harrison, one of the Commissioners for Propagation in Wales, did insist that the Petition was to general, and demanded a particular charge; Unto which the Petitioners Solicitors gave answer, that they were only Solicitors for the Petitioners, and had no more yet in charge for their Clients (the Petitioners) than the preservation of the Petition, and doubted not but to exhibit particulars if required; and the Petitioners have convenient time for that purpose: yet nevertheless, conceived that the Petitioners by the aforesaid Resolves of Parliament, were not directed to exhibit any new charge, or particulars other than the Petition itself, which was all that was referred to the consideration of that Honourable Committee, and all that the Petitioners were to prove and make good, which they were ready to do according to these Resolves, which gave that Committee no power, or direction (as they humbly conceived) to demand or receive any new charge or particulars. 7. The Petitioners are denied a Commission. A Letter to be first sent to the Commissioners for propagation, to send an account by the 18. of May, 1652. But the Petitioners could not then obtain a Commission to prove their Petition; It being then thought fit, and ordered that first before any Commission issued, a Letter should be written by Major General Harrison, Col. Sidney, and Mr. Henry Herbert Members of Parliament, the Commissioners for Propagation of the Gospel in Southwales and County of Monmouth, together with a Copy of the said Petition, desiring them by the 18. of May, 1652 (being two month's time) to give a particular account to the said Committee to the said Petition and matters therein in contained. Whether the said Letter was sent or no, is best known to those worthy Gentlemen, to whom the care thereof was referred. ● The Petition ●i●h the Commissioners Answer, read May ●8. 1652. However the Petitioners with their Councillors and Solicitors did attend the said Honourable Committee on the 18 of May: At which time the Petition, and also a general Answer was read, purporting the Answer of the Commissioners for the propagation of the Gospel, etc. 9 The Petitioners Counsels, except against ●he Commissioners Answer. Unto which the Petitioners Council replied, That the same did altogether consist of Generals; And in regard it was impossible for them (being strangers to the matters of fact) nor yet for their Clients the Petitioners to offer any thing there at the Bar by way of Reply, 10. They pray for a Copy of the Commissioners Answer, which is denied. or Exceptions to the said Answer before they had a Copy thereof, and time to consider of the same, they prayed to have a Copy of the said Answer for that purpose, which they could not obtain; but the Petitioners were then Ordered by Friday the 21. of May (being two days after) to exhibit such particulars contained in their Petition, upon which they would insist, 11. The Committees Order of May 18. 1652. which the Petitioners could not obtain, or a Copy thereof, until the day before they were to answer it. and desire to examine witnesses. The Petitioners Agents attended the Clerk of that Committee for the said Order, but could not obtain the same, or a Copy thereof, until Wednesday at six a clock in the Evening, so that the Petitioners had but one day's time to answer the expectation of the Committee in relation to the said Order: who (finding the same to be ambiguously and uncertainly drawn, bearing several interpretations) did demand of Master Phelpes, the Clerk attending the said Committee, what was meant by the Particulars mentioned in the said Order? 12. The Order of May 18. ambiguously drawn. who either would not, or could not satisfy them therein, (though present at the making of the Order, whilst the Petitioners were withdrawn:) whereupon they Addressed themselves to Members of Parliament, that sat at the Committee, when the said Order was made, and took advise of Council; And upon the whole they did apprehend the meaning of the Order to be only thus; That the Petitioners should declare what part, or particulars of their Petition they would insist to prove (it containing many particulars;) not conceiving that the Committee should require a particular charge against the proceed and transactions of the Commissioners for Propagation in the seven Counties for above two years, and to have the same drawn up and exhibited in two days, which was a work of impossibility, much less to be done in one day; which if they meant, it behoved their Clerk to have expressed the same in the Order by clear and intelligible words. The Petitioners in obedience to the said Order in full Answer to what was required, thereby so far as the words, 13. May 21. The Petitioners offer to prove the truth of their Petition, in every particular, and desire a Commission for that purpose, And pray that this their tender may be Recorded. and the very Letter of the Order did purport, did appear on the said 21 of May, and by their Council did affirm, that they did insist on all the particulars contained in their Petition: And would prove the truth of the Petition in every particular, And prayed again a Commission into the Country, according to the Resolves of Parliament to prove the same; Whereupon Major General Harrison did ask the Petitioners Council, if they had any thing else to offer to the Committee at that time, unto which answer was given by the Petitioners Council, that they had delivered the Answer of the Petitioners, in obedience to the said Order, and prayed that the same might be recorded. And prayed also that they would Order their Clerk to deliver the Petitioners a Copy of the Commissioners Answer to the Petition, 14. They move again for a Copy of the Commissioners Answer, which was not granted. whereby the Petitioners might be enabled either to except or reply unto the same, and proceed to issue according to the usual course, practice and proceed in all Courts of Justice, and Committees, And even of that Honourable Committee in all other causes; The Petitioners conceiving that the Commissioners did not send up their Answer with an intention to conceal the same from the knowledge of the Petitioners, or were unwilling that the same should be exposed to public view. May 21. 1652. 15. An Order for a Sub-committee to report matter of fact upon the Petition, before a Copy of the Commissioners Answer granted, issue joined, or witnesses examined. Nevertheless the Petitioners could not obtain an Order for a Copy thereof (being commanded to withdraw, before the Committee did explain the said Order, or give any further time for the Petitioners to satisfy the expectation of the Committee in reference to the same, and before the Petitioners or their Council were called in, or were again heard) who had somewhat more to offer to the consideration of that Committee. It was Ordered that Col. Bennet, Mr. Robinson, Col. Sidney, Mr. Strickland, Alderman Allen, Lieut. Gen. Fleetwood, Mr. Smith and Col. Fenwick, or any three or more of them do examine the matter of fact, as it then lay before the said Committee upon the said Petition of the six Counties of South-wales, and County of Monmouth, to the said Committee referred by the Parliament, and report the same to the said Committee, in order to a Report of the whole case to the Parliament. 16. The Petitioners prepare particulars contained in their Petition, in the nature of a charge. The Petitioners afterwards understanding the sense of the Committee in relation to the said Order of the 18 of May, and that by particulars contained in the Petition, they did mean a particular charge: The Petitioners did with all convenient speed prepare particulars contained in the general heads of the Petition in the nature of a Charge, and did instance several miscarriages acted and done by colour of the said Act for Propagation of the Gospel, as by the particulars annexed will more fully appear. 17. Which particulars are annexed to a Petition presented July 16. 1652. And the Petitioners did the 16. of July 1652. annex the same to a Petition, directed to the said Honourable Committee, wherein they did signify that by the said Order of the 18. of May, they did not then understand the meaning of the Committee, not conceiving their Honours did require thereby a particular charge, especially to be exhibited within two days (which was a work of impossibility) being never before ordered so to do, nor required by the Resolves of Parliament to exhibit or prove any other thing then the Petition itself, and the matters therein contained; And having prepared the particulars annexed they prayed them to accept of the same (though for the reasons aforesaid they failed in strictness of time given them by the said Order.) 18. The Petitioners are again denied a Commission according to the Resolves of Parliament. And likewise prayed that the Honourable Committee would grant a Commission to the Countries, according to the said Resolves to prove the same, which Petition and Particulars being read for the Reasons in the said Petition contained, and upon the reading and serious debate, and consideration had of the former Orders and Proceed of the Committee in that Cause, 19 Ordered by the Committee, that the particulars should be reported to the Parliament. It was Ordered, that the said particulars be admitted, and added to the Report of the matters to be Reported to the Parliament. At which time the Petitioners, Solicitors and Agents, informed the Committee, 20. A Copy of the Commissioners Answer, denied to the Petitioners from the 18 of May, to the 16. of July 1652. that their Clerk denied them a Copy of the Commissioners Answer, who from the 18 of May to that day, being the 16 of July 1652. could not obtain a Copy thereof (although they used all possible means, and endeavours therein) Whereupon It was Ordered that the Petitioners should have Copies of the Answer of the Commissioners for Propagation of the Gospel in Wales, 21. Ordered, that the Petitioners should have Copies of the Commissioners Answer. and of all other Papers and Proceed remaining with the said Committee. And accordingly the Petitioners having Copies of the Commissioners Answer, did prepare a Reply to the same (which was impossible for them sooner to do.) And (having annexed the said Reply to a Petition) did the 20 of August 1652. 22. Upon obtaining the Answer, a Reply is prepared, Present the same to the said Honourable Committee, praying them to accept of the said Reply, and likewise the fourth time prayed a Commission, to prove the Petition, as also their Particulars and Reply. 23. And annexed to a Petition presented to the Commit. Aug 23. 1652. And did likewise inform the Committee that on perusal of a Report drawn up by the Sub-committee, they did find therein mentioned the said Book of Account, containing sixty Sheets of Paper, and conceiving it of dangerous consequence, 24. The Petitioners pray for a Commission the fourth time. and very prejudicial, as well to the Petitioners as to the State, in case the said Book of Account should be Reported, before it was lodged with that Committee, 25. And that the Commissioners Book of account might be lodged with the Committee & a copy thereof granted the Petitioners. and the Petitioners have a Copy thereof, and liberty to surcharge the same, without which the State might be defrauded many thousand pounds by an undue Account, they prayed that the said Book of Account might be brought in, and lodged with the Committee; And the Petitioners might have a Copy thereof, and liberty to surcharge the same; And that in the mean time the same should not be reported to the Parliament (their Clerk having declared that the said Book was only produced by Major General Harrison, 26. The Book of account produced, and afterwards taken away. Aug. 20. 1652. before the Sub-committee, when they were drawing up the Report, and then by him (or others attending him) taken away and never read, examined or lodged with the Clerk of the said Committee. Whereupon the 20 of August 1652. 27. The Sub-Committee Ordered to bring in the Book of Account the 27 of August. 1652. or show cause why they would not. It was Ordered that the Sub-committee appointed by Order of the 21 of May last, should bring in to the said Committee, the said Book of Account of the Commissioners for Propagation of the Gospel in Wales, containing about threescore Sheets of paper in their Report mentioned; Or satisfy the Committee to the contrary on that day seven-night, being the time when the said Honourable Committee did appoint to take into consideration the said Petition and Reply.) And the care of bringing in the said Account was referred to Col. Bennet. But the Clerk attending the said Committee, did contrary to the express Declaration of the Committee, insert in the said Order, the third of September, to be the time for bringing in the said Account; And for consideration of the Petition and Reply: Which day being a Fast day, 28. The Clerk contrary to the Committees Order inserts the 3. of Sep. which was a Fast-day. set apart by the Honourable Members of Parliament, for their Service and Worship of God, no Committee Sat. The day following the Fast, the Petitioners Council and Solicitors did attend the Committee to know their pleasures, if they would then take the Reply into consideration, 29. As appears by M. Hancocks Affidavit or appoint another time, informing them, that their Clerk had misnamed the day in the Order, contrary to the Declaration and Order of the Committee, 30. The Clerk answering that the next day was inserted in the paper of causes, being 5. of Sep and as by the Affidavit of Mr. Hancock, and the Petitioners Agent and Solicitor may appear. But the Clerk did openly give Answer, that the same was put down in the Paper of causes for the second day following the Fast (being the 5. of Sep.) 31. The Petitioners Council and Solicitor, attending the 5. day. The Clerk had not entered the same into the Paper of causes. And thereupon the Petitioners Council, and Solicitors with the leave of the Committee did departed to their other occasions, and did attend there the next day, according to the public intimation and information of the Clerk. But the Clerk not having entered the same in the paper of causes, it was not called on, nor taken into consideration that day. But on the 8 of September, in the absence of the Petitioners, 32. But without the privity of the Petitioners Council, or Solicitors, it was Ordered the 8. of Sep. 1652. their Council and Solicitors; All persons being withdrawn, 1. All Orders since the 29 of June, to be discharged. It was Ordered, that all Orders since the 29 of June, be discharged, 2. The Report without mention of particulars, or Reply. and the said Report as it was then drawn up and Ordered, should be reported to the Parliament; 3. Without any examination of witnesses. In which report there was no mention made of the said Particulars and Reply, herein after recited; 4. Without any Copy of the Book of Account to be Reported to the Parliament. And the said Report was likewise made and drawn up before any one witness was examined in the cause, and before any Copy had, or examination made of the said Book of Account, 5. No further proceed before that Committee. that was never brought in, or lodged with the Committee for that purpose. And it was then likewise Ordered and Declared by the Honourable persons then sitting as a Committee, that they would make no further proceeding in the said Cause, until the further pleasure of the Parliament be declared, upon the said Report to be made unto them. At the drawing up of which Order, one Richard Creed servant to the said Major General Harrison, 33. Rich. Creed (servant to) M. G. Harrison dictating the Order to Langly, (one of the Clarks) discocovered. and an Agent against the said Petitioners was dictating the words of the said Order to Mr. Langley one of the Clerks to the said Committee; who was taken therein and discovered by Mr. Hancock, one of the Petitioners Agents, whereupon the said Langley, for prevention of the discovery of this his undue carriage in this business against the Petitioners, wished the said Creed to be silent, when he saw the said Hancock, 34. As appears by M. Hancocks Affidavit. and informed Creed that Hancocks was Agent for the Petitioners, as by the Affidavit of the said Mr. Hancock, may more at large appear. And Major General Harrison was as active, 35. Ma. Gen. Harrison, acting as one of the Committee though a Commissioner in the Act of Propagation. and sedulous in this matter, that on most days appointed for the hearing thereof, he did sit and vote as one of the Grand Committee▪ And in a special manner did likewise sit with the Sub-committee at the drawing up of their Report, and was chief instrument therein, and subscribed the same, though he was not appointed at all to be one of the Sub-committee by the Order of the 21. of May 1652. But was one of the Commissioners appointed in the Act for the Propagation of the Gospel in Wales; And thereby equally entrusted, and concerned with the rest of the Commissioners therein named. 36. The Petitioners being ordered from further prosecution. The Petitioners by the said Order of the 8 of September, being wholly debarred of any further proceed before the said Committee, until the further pleasure of the Parliament should be known therein, did patiently wait in expectation of what the Lord would be pleased to direct them to do therein. 37. And the Report suppressed from the 29. Jun. 1652. to the 25. May. 1653. But so it fell out, that the said Report was privately kept from the Cognizance of the Parliament, from the 29 of June 1652. until the 25 of March 1653. (being 9 Months,) To what end, and upon what account the same was so long suppressed, is best known to Colonel Bennet, and others, who had the carriage thereof, and were entrusted by the said Order of 29 Junii. 1652. to Report the same to the Parliament. 38. The Petitioners, their Council, Solicitors and Agents are menaced, troubled, and imprisoned as followeth In the mean time, what strange and unusual ways have been used to suppress the said Petition itself, you will find herein briefly declared. 1. The Petitioners and their Agents were menaced, and threatened by the Itnerants, and Sequestrators to be Sequestered, and ruined, which was accordingly in part executed. 2. 39 The Petitioners are put out of Commission. Divers Gentlemen that bore public Offices of trust under the Parliament in those parts, and of approved faithfulness unto them, were discountenanced and put out of their Places and Offices merely for subscribing the said Petition, and owning the truth thereof. 40 The Petitioners Solicitors, are tampered with by Creed, and Mr. Rogers. 3. That one Richard Creed, servant to Major General Harrison, and Agent for the propagators, and one Hugh Rogers (formerly a Cavalier in Arms against the Parliament, yet one of the Welsh Itinerants) having an evil purpose and design to corrupt the said John Gunter, the Petitioners Solicitor, and to draw him to violate and falsify the great trust reposed in him, by the Petitioners, did partly by threats, and partly by fair promises and persuasions endeavour to disengage him, from the further prosecution and solicitation of the said Petition. 41. Mr. Gunter denying their solicitation, & tampering, is together with Col. Freeman, prosecuted. But the said John Gunter, abhorring with his Soul to condescend thereunto, and the said Richard Creed, and Hugh Rogers, finding their endeavours therein fruitless. The said Richard Creed in August 1652. (being then a servant to Major General Harrison) upon his own single information obtained a Warrant for the apprehending & bringing before the (then) Council, Col. Edward Freeman, the Petitioners Council, and the said John Gunter the Petitioners Solicitor; In pursuance whereof the said Col. Ed Freeman, 42. Col. Freeman apprehended, as he was going to Court in Preisteigne Sessions being States Attorney whilst he was discharging his duty in the great Sessions held at Presteigne, in the County of Radnor, as Attorney General of South wales, was most disgracefully Arrested by the Counsels Messengers, as he was going into the Court to plead for the State, and his own particular Clients. And immediately brought up a Prisoner to the (then) Council, where he continued above sixteen weeks as a Prisoner, daily attending and petitioning for a charge, or discharge, (the Commonwealth and his own particular Clients in the mean time suffering great prejudice by his absence.) At last a false and scandalous charge was brought in against him by Richard Creed, in the Name of John Morgan, 43. A charge produced by Creed, in John Morgan's Name against Col. Freeman. one of the Sequestrators of the Church Revenues in South-wales, (being a man of a very mean Trade and Condition, before he was entrusted with the managing of the Sequestered Estates.) And the said Creed being demanded to prove the charge so by him exhibited, could not make good any one particular thereof; 44. And for want of proof Col. Freeman is discharged. whereupon Col. Freeman was honourably discharged from his Restraint, and Attendance, in reference to the said charge. Nevertheless he received no reparation to this day for all these Wrongs and Sufferings; (though really damnified by this false Accusation of Creed, 45. The Col. is not yet repaired though damnified 1000 l. and his Complices) above 1000 l. And afterwards upon the dissolution of the former Parliament, Col. Freeman by an Order of the (then) councel (where Major Gen. 46. But by Order of the (then) council is discharged of his place of Attorney Gen. without any more charge, or proofs against him. Harrison had then the Honour to sit) was in his absence (without any crime laid to his charge) discharged of his place of Attorney General for South wales; Although he had in that place (as also with the ●o●e of his blood in the Field) given signal Testimonies of his Fidelity and Affection to the Parliament and Commonwealth of England. And Mr. Edm. Jones, (a compounded Delinquent on Record) was appointed Attorney General in his stead, who continues in that place to this day, 37. And M. Edmond Jones, put in his place. notwithstanding the several Acts and Ordinances of Parliament, disabling him from the execution thereof. 48. Mr. Gunter understanding of the Warrant against him, doth voluntarily render himself into the hands of the Sergeant at Arms. And the said John Gunter being gone into Wales to attend his civil employments in the great Sessions for Carmarthen, Pembroke, and Cardigan, and understanding that the Warrant was issued out against him, did with all possible speed repair to London, and voluntarily rendered himself to the Sergeant at Arms attending the Council, and as a Prisoner attended 15. weeks, earnestly Petitioning for a Charge or Discharge. In the mean time, such was the violence of his Prosecutors, that to disable him to attend his calling, and the solicitation of the said Petition about Jan. 49. Attends the Council as a Prisoner the space of fifteen weeks. 1652. before any Charge brought agianst him, he was kept a close Prisoner in the Messenger's custody two days and one night, by the means of Major Gen: Harrison, who moved at the Council against the Sergeant at Arms for suffering Mr. Gunter to have liberty, though he daily attended the Council as a Prisoner. 50. A Charge exhibited by Creed, brought in by Major Gen. Harrison his Master, 9 Feb. 1652. But the Council being informed of the state of his present case, would make no Order for his Restraint. At last a malicious and impertinent Charge was brought in by the said Richard Creed the Informer, and ushered in to the Council by Major Gen: Harrison his (then) Master, 9 Feb. 1652. (about seven months after the issuing forth of the Warrant against him) wherein the matters suggested by Creed merely related to John Gunter as Solicitor for the Petitioners. 51. The matter suggested of a 12. months standing merely for acting or soliciting, and 7. months from the date of the Warrant to the exhibiting of the Charge. Unto which Charge, John Gunter 5. Apr. 1653. did likewise voluntarily put in a full and satisfactory Answer. The Petitioners and their Agents being thus dealt withal and discouraged, and the Report of the said Committee lying dormant for about nine months, Col: Bennet and others who had the carriage of the Report, did make choice of the 23. of March, 1652. as a most fit and convenient time to bring in the same to the Parliament. 52. M. Gunter voluntarily pure in his Answer 5. April. 1653. The Petitioners with their Council and Solicitors being then out of Town, and many worthy Members of Parliament absent, (who by their frequent sitting at the Committee on several debates touching the said Petition, were deeply sensible of the sad truths therein contained.) 53. The Report lying dormant 9 months, 54. Brought in by Col: Bennet 28. Mar. 1652. whilst the Petitioners, their Councillors and Solicitors were absent. But the debate of that business being providentially put off until the Friday following (being the 25. of March) The Pet. Agents returning unexpectedly to Town, 55. The debate of the Report, providentially put off till 25. Mar. upon Thursday the 24. of March, and understanding this great business was to be taken into consideration in Parliament the next day, did as much as in them lay prepare an Address to the Parliament suitable to the shortness of the time, and the weight and nature of the cause wherewith they were entrusted by their Country. And for that purpose, A Petition was presented unto the Parliament, 56. Mr. Charles Roberts Pet. with particulars and Reply, put in the 25. of March. the said 25. of March, with a copy of the particulars & Reply herein after recited, by Mr. Charles Roberts, one of the Pet. Solicitors, in these words, viz. To the Supreme Authority, the Parliament of the Commonwealth of ENGLAND. The humble Petition of CHARLES ROBERTS of Grays-inn Gent'. SHOWETHS, THat your Honours having appointed this day to take into consideration your Honour's Act of the 23. of February 1649. Entitled, An Act for the better propagation of the Gospel in Wales, and some Petitions and Proceed relating thereunto; Your Petitioner out of his duty to God, and his Native Country, and for and on the behalf of the Petitioners of the six Counties of South-wales, and County of Monmouth, (by whom he is entrusted amongst others as their Agent and Solicitor) Humbly to offer to your Honour's consideration the Particulars and Reply hereunto annexed (The Original whereof hath been long since lodged with the Honourable Committee for Plundered Ministers, And by their Honour's Order of 16. July and 20. August last, hereunto likewise annexed, admitted in order to a Report thereof to your Honours, which nevertheless (as your Petitioner is informed) are omitted out of the Report of the said Honourable Committee: In respect whereof your Petitioner is enforced to this humble address to your Honours, Earnestly beseeching your Honours on the behalf of the said Petitioners, to take the whole into your serious consideration, in order to a future redress of their grievances, partly contained in the said Petition, Particulars, and Reply, in such way as to your Honour's grave wisdoms shall seem meet, 57 The Resolve of Parliament, 25 May 1653. For which not only your Petitioner, but many thousands of the Inhabitants of Wales will have cause to pray, etc. Whereupon, 58. The Petitioners Agents attend the Committee with the Resolves, and move for a Commission. and on consideration, and debate had of the Report brought in by Colonel Bennet, and of the whole matter as it then lay before the Parliament, they passed this ensuing Resolve. Resolved by the Parliament, that this Report be recommitted with power to the Committee to examine the whole matter of Fact, 59 The Petiti. delayed until Thursday, and the Parliament dissolved the wednesday before, and the Committee could not act any longer. and to Report it to the Parliament. Afterwards the Petitioners Council, and Solicitors did attend the said Committee with the said Resolve; And several times moved them in pursuance thereof, and of the former Resolve of Parliament, of the 10 of March 1651. To grant Commissions to the Country, to examine the truth of the Petition, Particulars and Reply; whereby the said Committee might be enabled to Report the whole matter of Fact to the Parlia. But the said Committee did put it off until Thursday 21 Apr. 1653. 60. The Petitiones intent to revive their Petition before the last Parliament. And the Parliament being dissolved the Wednesday before, the said Committee, became consequently dissolved, and no further proceed could be had before them on the said Petition and Resolves. The Petitioners intending to revive their Petition, 61. Mr. Gunter their Solicitor was the second time imprisoned by order of an absolute Warrant, and Order of Maj. Gen. Harrison. and Complaint before the late Parliament, and the noise thereof coming to the ears of some persons concerned, The said John Gunter the Petitioners Solicitor, became the second time a prisoner, being apprehended by Edmond Dendy Esquire, Sergeant at Ames to the (then) Council, and by him committed to the custody of Mr. Humphrey Holden, one of the Messengers attending the same Council, where he than remained two days, 50. Mr. Gunter demands the cause of his imprisonment. and one night, who demanding by whose Warrant and Authority he was restrained of the liberty held forth by the Law of the Land, to the free People of this Nation, was answered; That he was detained by virtue of a Warrant issued forth in August. 1652. and the special directions of Major Gen. Harrison. The said John Gunter having obtained a Copy of the said Order, and seriously considering of the same, 51. The Answer given him therein. did find the tenor thereof to be merely for bringing in his person to appear, and answer before the former Council, to such things as should be then and there objected against him. And in regard he had satisfied that Order by his voluntary appearance and answer, and finding no Order for his restraint, but the very Council itself dissolved, he did conceive that he ought not to be restrained of his liberty by colour of the said Order, or any other verbal Command or Directions; Whereupon he was plainly told that he must remain a Prisoner, until he did obtain an Order of discharge from the (than Council) or from Major General Harrison; who being thus straitened, and not at all Committed by any Order of the then Council; did direct a Letter to Major General Harrison, To this effect, 52. M. Gunter's Letter to Major General Harrison, touching his Restrained. viz. That he had been exposed to extraordinary expense, and loss of time, and was much damnified by the causeless prosecution of his servant Richard Creed, unto whose charge he had long before put in a full and satisfactory Answer, before the former Council, whereby their Order was fulfilled, and themselves sufficiently satisfied of his Innocency. And desired his Honour to consider how unusual and destructive a course it was to the free People of this Nation, to be deprived of their just Liberties by verbal commands, or otherwise on bare information, before a legal Trial, and Conviction; And therefore hoped he should not be made the first precedent of that nature, since the establishment of that Government; But that his Honour and all other in Authority would be pleased to protect him, whilst he behaved himself inoffensive towards their Government. 53. Mr. Gunter afterwards discharged by Ma. General harrison's direction. Whereupon Major General Harrison, taking the Premises into consideration, was pleased to give Order and Directions to the Serjent at Arms to discharge the said John Gunter, from his restraint and punishment. 34. Mr. Gunter received no Reparation, thought damified above 1000 l. Which being performed, notwithstanding though Mr. Gunter being of known integrity to the Commonwealth, yet by colour of this false Accusation (without proof made against him, or any Trial or Conviction) was debarred of the benefit of his Profession, in the execution of several places, and employments wherein he was entrusted; And hath not to this day Received any Reparation for his losses and damages thereby sustained, though he hath been damnified every way above a thousand pound. Having given you the true Relation of the whole Transaction concerning the Petition, with the Parliament Resolves, and several Orders and Reports by the Committee for Plundered Ministers and others thereupon, with the manifold Obstructions in the Prosecution thereof, both by several miscarriages of Clerks and other Agents. And the grievous Restraynment of the Petitioners Council, and Solicitors from their Liberties. I pass on to the Particular Heads of the Charge put in by the Petitioners. II. The Particular CHARGE. The General Heads of the PETITION of the Six Counties of South-wales, and County of Monmouth, together with the particulars therein contained; Whereupon the Petitioners desire to have liberty to examine Witnesses in the Country by Commission, where matter of Act ariseth, and the Witnesses reside, according to the Resolves of Parliament of the 10 of March last, humbly presented to the Honourable Committee for plundered Ministers. The First General HEAD. 1. THat all or most of the Ministers of the Six Counties of South-wales, and County of Monmouth, have been ejected from their respective Benefices.] More paticularly, Monmouth, 53. In the County of Monmouth 53. and upwards, whereof 28. Masters of Arts, 15 Bachelors of Divinity, 10 Preaching Graduates, and University-men, besides all those Curates and Stipendaries that were employed to Preach and Officiate for Pluralists and Impropriators. Glamorgan, 40. Ministers ejected 40. and upwards. Whereof two Doctors of Divinity, three Bachelors of Divinity, 16 Masters of art, 19 preaching Graduates and Universitymen, besides Curates and Stipendaries employed to preach, and officiate for Pluralists and Impropriators. Brecknock, 32. Minister ejected 32. Whereof one Doctor of Divinity, three Bachelors of Divinity, 18 Masters of Art, 10 Graduates and Universitymen, besides Curates and Stipendaries employed to preach and officiate for Pluralists and Impropriators. Radnor, 30. Ministers ejected 30 and upwards. Whereof one Doctor of Divinity, two Bachelors of Divinity, six Masters of Art, besides other Graduates, Curates, and Stipendaries, employed to preach, and officiate in other Churches and Chappells, and to supply the places of Pluralists and Impropriators. Co●rmarthen 30. Ministers ejected 30 upwards. Besides Curates and Stipendaries and other Graduates, and Universitymen employed to preach, and officiate for Pluralities, and Improperties. Cardigan, 20. Ministers ejected 20 and upwards. Besides Curates and Stipendaries employed to preach, and officiate for Pluralists and Impropriators. Pembroke. 32. Ministers ejected thirty two, and upwards. Consisting most of them, of able Preachers and Universitymen. and other Graduates, besides Curates, and Stipendaries employed and Stipended to Preach and officiate for Pluralists, and Impropriators. The Second General HEAD. That few or none of the said Countries have been supplied, with a competent number of Godly able Teachers to officiate in the rooms of the outed Ministers, there being not above four or five Itinerary Teachers, in some of the said Counties appointed, and approved of to Preach the Gospel; whereas some of the said Counties consist of 120. Parishes, and the least thereof consisting of 50. many whereof have therein above 2000 Souls.] More particularly. Monmouth not above 20. That the County of Monmouth hath in it 140 odd Parishes, to supply which Parishes, there are now of approved Othodox Godly able Teachers and Ministers, resident, stipended and allowed of to preach and officiate, according to the Act of Parliament of the 22 of Feb. 1649 not above 20. Glamorgan not above 20, That the County of Glamorgan hath in it 151 Parishes, to supply which Parishes, there are now of approved Orthodox Godly able Teachers and Ministers resident, stipended and allowed of to preach and officiate, according to the Actor of Parliament, of the 22 of Feb. 1649. not above twenty. Brecknock not above 4, That the County of Brecon hath in it 60 odd Parishes, to supply which there are now of approved Orthodox godly able Teachers and Ministers resident, stipended, and allowed to Preach and Officiate according to the said Act, not above 4. Radnor not above 8: That the County of Radnor hath in it 50 Parishes, to supply which Parishes there are now of approved Orthodox godly able Teachers and Ministers Stipended, allowed and approved of to preach and officiate, according to the said Act, not above 8. Carmarthen not above 7 That the County of Carmarthen hath in it 81 Parishes, to supply which Parishes, there are now of approved Oxthodox godly able Teachers and Ministers resident, stipended, allowed and approved of to preach and officiate, according to the said Act, not above 7. Cardigan not above 12 That the County of Cardigan hath in it 60 odd Parishes, to supply which Parishes, there are now of approved Ministers qualified as aforesaid, not above 12. Pembroke not above 30, That the County of Pembroke hath in it 140 odd Parishes, to supply which Parishes, there are now of approved Orthodox godly able Teachers and Ministers resident, stipended and approved of to Preach and officiate, according to the said Act not above 30. The Third General HEAD. Shcoole-Masters. That there hath not been provided such a convenient number of good Schools, for the education of Children, and advancement of Learning as was intended by the Parliament, and the true purport of the said Act.] More particularly, Monmouth not above 3. That in the County of Monmouth there are not above three Godly able Schoolmasters stipended, qualified, allowed, and approved of, according to the said Act, having therein 140 odd Parishes as aforesaid. Glamorgan not above 4, Not above four, having therein 151 Parishes as aforesaid. Brecknock not above 3, Not above three, having therein 60 odd Parishes as aforesaid. Radnor not above 3, Radnor not above three, having therein 50 Parishes as aforesaid. Carmarthen not above 2, Not above two, having therein 81 Parishes as aforesaid. Penbrook not above 3, Not above three, having therein 140 odd Parishes as aforesaid. Cardigan not above 3. Not above three, having therein 60 odd Parishes as aforesaid. The fourth general Head. That some persons deriving authority from the said Act, have for above two year's last passed received and disposed of the Tithes, Glebes, Impropriations, Tenths, Portions of tithes, Rents reserved, College Pensions, and other Benefices and Ecclesiastical Live and Promotions whatsoever within the six Counties of South-wales and County of Monmouth annually worth 20000. l. or thereabout.] viz. That Col: Thomas Harrison, Col: Philip Jones, Col: John Jones, Sir John Trevar Knight, Henry Herbert Esq Will: Herbert, Will: Parker, Will: Blethin, Christopher Katchmay, and the rest of the Commissioners named in the said Act, to execute the several powers therein contained, beware thereby empowered and entrusted by themselves and others deriving authority from them, to receive and dispose of all and singular the Rents, Issues of all and every the Rectories, Vicaridges, Donatives sine Curis, Portions of Tenths, and other Ecclesiastical Live, which all the time of passing the said Act then were or then after should be in the disposing of the Parliament, or any others deriving authority from them. As also to receive and dispose of the Rents, Issues and Profits of all Impropriations and Glebe-lands within the said Counties, which then were or then after should be under Sequestration, or in the disposal of the Parliament by virtue of any former Statute, or any Act or Ordinance of this present Parliament. The particular valuations of the said respective Tithes and premises within the said respective Counties are as followeth, viz. Monmouth: The Tithes, Tenths, Portions of tithes, Glebes, Impropriations, Rents reserved, College Pensions, and other Ecclesiastical Live, Procurations, Promotions, etc. in the county of Monmouth, annually worth 14500 l. Glamorgan: The Tithes and premises annually worth 4500 l. Brecknock: The Tithes and Premises annually worth 2500 l. Radnor: The Tithes and Premises annually worth 2000 l. Carmarthen: The Tithes and Premises annually worth 2000 l. Cardigan: The Tithes and Premises annually worth 1000 l. Pembroke: The Tithes and Premises annually worth 3500 l. Which in the whole comes to the entire sum of 20000 l. per ann. And the better to satisfy your Honours of the real valuations of the said Tithes and premises, the Petitioners are so far from overvaluing the same, that they shall and will be ready, and do hereby offer your Honours to give good security for the said Tithes and premises within the said seven counties 20000 l. per ann. so as they may have, collect and enjoy the same with the same power and authority, and in the same beneficial manner as the said Commissioners and their Agents have received, made or raised, or might have received, made or raised the same, and the respective Inhabitants, etc. will be well contented to farm their own respective Tithes, and other the premises proportionably according to this offer and valuation made by the Petitioners. The said offer of the Petitioners being 20000 l. more in two years, than the Commissioners account in their general answer. The fift general Head. That little of the said Tithes and premises have been converted towards the propagation of the Gospel, or accounted for to the State.] The Petitioners will make this evident, 1. That no Account it all was given or rendered the Parliament of the said Tithes and premises, until the Petition was preferred. 2. That the account given in by the Commissioners in answer to the Petition is only in general, not expressing in particular what profit of the Tithes and premises they received, nor out of what, nor how disposed, save only an acknowledgement of the receipt of 20000 l. or thereabouts, which the Petitioners humbly pray they may do. And the Petitioners having a copy thereof, and convenient time, are ready to exhibit a particular surcharge, the Petitioners having not yet obtained a copy of the general answer and account brought in to the Clerk of the said Honourable Committee, although the Petitioners by their Agents used their endeavour therein, Master Phelps having answered the Petitioners Agents, that the said Answer was sealed up, and order given him, that no copy thereof should be given the Petitioners or their Agents. 3. The Petitioners will also make it apparent, that little of the said Tithes and premises have been converted to the propagation of the Gospel, or accounted for to the State. By these few qualified stipended Teachers, Ministers, & Schoolmasters employed and stipended to teach and officiate. 4. By the small Stipends and Salaries allowed them out of the Tithes and Premises, whereof some have sadly complained. 5. By the small allowances for 5 'tis paid to the ejected Ministers wives, though allowed according to the full value by the Act of Parliament. The sixth General HEAD. 6. That the Tithes and Premises for the two last years have been set out at undervalues, to the prejudice of the State.] 1. The Petitioners will make good, That not one Vicarage, Rectory, or other of the Impropriat Tithes and Premises, but have been let out at undervalues in every particular Parish. But because the Petitioners are desirous to give your Honours a more particular satisfaction therein, they do for instance name, and particularise, That the Rectory of Lanavon Vawre, in the County of Brecon, being valued by apprizers upon Oath at 100 l. per annum, yet set out at 55 l. per annum, though 80 l. per annum hath been offered for it, and sufficient security for payment of the Rent, out of which the 5 'tis and contribution being deducted the State will have but a small proportion out of the same. The Glebe is worth 4 l. 10 s. per annum, and so much would have been given for it, yet set out at 40 s. per annum. The Vicarage of Glasbury, in the County of Brecon, and Radnor being worth 100 l. per ann. upwards, is set out at 50 l. per an. Though 80 l. per annum was offered to be paid for the same, and once assented unto, and security offered for payment of the Rent, and to include the fifths within the 80 l. so that the fifths and contributions being deducted out of the Rent now paid for the same, the State will have the least proportion thereof. That the Vicarage of Devynnog is worth 120 l. per annum, and upwards, yet set out at 60 l. per annum, and contributions thereout paid. That the Vicarage of Lliwell is worth 50 l. per annum, yet set out at 15 l. per annum. That John Rice offered for the Tithes of Llangunur 30 l. per annum, yet the same hath been let by John Hughes the Sequestrator, to his own brother at 15 l. and thereout the fifths and contributions deducted, whereby the State is defrauded. That the Impropriate Churches of Chirckhowell Llangeney, Llangattock, Llanelley, Cumdy, etc. situate in the County of Brecon, Sequestered for the Delinquency of Edward earl of Worcester are worth 350 l. per annum, and 300 l. would have been given for it, yet let out for 150 l. per ann. That the Rectory of Llanelley, Llawdeneylogg, Llangendirne Llannon and Pembrey, with the Chappells annexed, situate in the County of Carmarthen, parcel of the estate of the Lord Percy, let out to Henry Vaughan Esquire, late Sir Henry Vaughan Knight, a Delinquent, at 60 l. per annum, well worth 800 l. per annum and upwards, and so much would be given for the same. The Tyths of Sleynton, worth 50 l. per annum, set out at 25 l. per ann. The Tyths of Hubbarston are worth 70 l. per annum, let out for 25 l. The Tyths of Llangam worth 60 l. per annum, set out at 30 let per annum. The Tithes of Twynnells, worth 28 l. per annum, set out at 8 l. per annum to Mr. White a near Kinsman to the sequestrator. The Tyths of Hodston, worth 50 l. per annum, set out at 28 l. per annum. The Vicarage of Muncton worth 30 l. per annum, set out unto M. John Lort, brother to Sampson Lort, one of the Commissioners for Propagation at 10 l. per ann. The Tyths of Warren worth 80 l. per annum, and set out to the said John Lort at 35 l. per ann. The Tyths of Castle Martin, worth 50 l. per annum, set out unto the said Roger White at 24 l. per ann. Rhayadar worth 40 l. per annum, set out at 25 l. St. Harmon, worth 50 l. per annum, set out at 24 l. Hyopp, worth 50 l. per annum, set out at 25 per ann. Llangunllo, worth 32 l. per annum, set out at 21 l. per annum. Kevenleere, worth 80 l. per annum, and set out at 60 l. per annum. Llanbadarn Vawre, worth 80 l. per annum, set out at 60 l. per annum. Witten, worth 30 l. per annum, set out at 15 l. per ann. Blethvach worth 80 l. per annum, set out at 35 l. per ann. Cascob worth 40 l. per annum, set out 25 l. per ann. New Radnor worth 80 l. per annum, set out at 50 l. per ann. Bochrwd, and Llamb●der worth 120 l. per annum, set out at 80 l. Glandestrey worth 70 l. per annum, set out at 40 l. per ann. Bryngwyn worth 70 l. per annum, set out at 40 l. per annum. New Church, worth 28 l. per annum, set out at 14 l. per annum. Disserth and Bettus, worth 80 l. per annum, set at 35 l. Aberedowe, worth 120 l. per annum, set out at 80 l. per ann. The Tyths of Cherrington, in the County of Glamorgan, worth 100 l. per annum, and upwards, set out by Col. Jones servant to Mr. William Basset at 35 l. per annum, and contributions, and fifths thereout deducted, whereof the State is defrauded 75 l. per ann. The Tyths of Bishopston, in the said County, worth 120 l. per annum and upwards, and 60 l. offered for it, yet let at 45 l. per ann. and contributions thereout, deducted, whereby the State hath the least part thereof. Lambeder Vicarage in the County of Pembroke, worth 140 l. per annum, set out at 60 l. per annum, to M. John Ellyott, and Morris Bateman. Llandisillio Vicarage (for so much of it as lies in the County of Pembroke) worth 6 l. 6 s. 8 d. set out to Morris Morgan at 3 l: 10 s. Llanvalteg Castle Deren in the County of Carmarthen, worth 100 l. per annum, let out at 40 l. per annum, and Taxations thereout allowed. The Vicarage of Llanuthull, worth 40 l. per annum, and upwards, set out at 22 l. per ann. The Vicarage of Llangamarch, worth 60 l. per annum, set out at 34 l. per ann. The Vicarage of Llawrenny, worth 80 l. per annum, and upward; set out at 30 l. per annum, and contributions thereout paid, and the Parishioners could not Farm the same though they offered for it 44 l. and to pay all Taxations, and Contributions. Lanbeder in the County of Cardigan, worth 50 l. a year, set out at 30 l. per ann. Nantgwulle worth 20 l. per annum, set out 10 l. per annum, and contributions thereout paid, and the Parishioners could not have the same, though they offered 15 l. for the same, and to pay contributions besides. The Tithe of the Parish of Trednock valued at 60 l. per annum, and so much offered, with good security for payment thereof, yet let out at 28 l. per ann. The Impropriate Tithe of Llandilio Groseny (late the Earl of Worcester's) worth 100 l. per annum, set out to Nich. Symons at 60 l. per annum, although the Petitioners offered 95 l. per ann. paying contributions. The Tithe of Llanvetherine, worth 100 l. per annum, & the Parishioners offered 80 l. per annum for it, yet let out at 60 l. per annum to one Charles Goddard, his wife being Mr. cradock's near Kinswoman. The Tithe of Gresmont worth 100 l. per annum, and so offered by the Parishioners, but let out to a brother of one of the Commissioners for Propagation at 10 l. per annum, and so for the rest and residue for all Parishes within the said Counties, being every where set out at undervalues. Secondly, the Petitioners will prove that the said Tithes and Premises have not been posted up, and publicly exposed to Farm to the Parishioners, and particular owners and others that would have given most for the same, as is usual in Improving and advancing other Rents and public Revenues, disposable by the Parliament, and others Authorized by them. 3. By letting the same to Friends, Kindred, Creatures and alliance of the Sequestrators and others entrusted, with the letting thereof as some have been before particularly instanced by name, and divers others that might be named. The Seventh General HEAD. 7. That for want of the due Execution of the said Act, the Petitioners together with the Inhabitants endure a famine of the Word of God.] More Particularly, 1. By the scarcity of the persons stipended, allowed and appointed to preach and officiate. 2. By allowing persons to preach and officiate that have borne actual Arms against the Parliament, and other ill affected persons to the Parliament, (viz.) One Hugh Rogers of the County of Monmouth, who hath been in actual Arms against the Parliament, and so continued whilst the late King had any visible strength or interest in the Nation to protect him, and others of his Confederates of the same Principles; The said Hugh Rogers being one that did formerly revile and vilify the Parliament, and Army, and all the godly party and their proceed. That Robert Prichard Parson of Neverne, hath during the late Wars deserted his habitation, joined with the enemy, and acted with Captain Edward Lloyd his Father in Law in Kidwelley Castle against the Parliament, and as it is generally believed hath not yet subscribed the Engagement, yet allowed and beneficed. That one Hughes of the County of Carmarthen, being a person disaffected to the Parliament, and present Government, and one that joined with the enemy in the late Rebellion of Poyer, etc. against the Parliament, is permitted and allowed to preach and officiate, and holds one or two Benefices; whereas divers others that never bore Arms against the Parliament are ejected on very slender account, particularly Mr Nicholson, M. Evans, Mr. Thomas, Mr. powel, Mr. Hatley, Doctor Edward's, Mr. Griffith, and others. That one Thomas Price of the County of Cardigan was settled by the Bishop since the reducing of that County to the obedience of the Parl. and one that hath kept an Alehouse, and a great frequenter of Alehouses. 3. The Inhabitants endure a famine of the Word of God, by reason several other persons now employed and stipended to preach and officiate that are deboyst, drunken persons, scandalous in their lives and conversations.] More particularly, Thomas Field of the County of Penbroke, John Phillips of the same, David Evans of the County of Cardigan, William Jones of the County of Brecon, William Jones of the County of Monmouth, and several others that might be instanced, insomuch that the Inhabitants are much discouraged to repair to their meetings and exercises. 4. The Inhabitants endure a Famine of the Word of God by reason of several illiterate persons that are of different opinions, that do teach and officiate, causing great rents and divisions among their Auditories, and several contestations and disturbances, to the endangering the peace of the County. More particularly, At Myniddu-stayne on Monday in Easter week last; at Bedways on Low-Easter Sunday; at Swanzey, at Merthir, and other places: at some of which differences and disturbances there have been several swords drawn, and some hurt, and the Inhabitants put to a great fear, lest these differences do grow wider, to the endangering of the public peace of the Country. By which means the Inhabitants are very much disheartened and discouraged from coming to their Meetings, which are so remote and uncertain, that the aged, lame, impotent, and poorer sort that are not provided with horses, cannot, and many thousands know not where or how to come to those places where they exercise their meetings, being sometimes ten, sometimes twenty miles, and sometimes more from some parts of a County, and one while in one County and another while in another County, and but very few in any one place constant: So that a man on a Lord's day may ride twenty miles through a county, and not see a Church door open, supplied with a constant, able, godly Minister. More particularly, In the county of Brecon, there are above fifty Parish Churches (besides Chapels) that for above this twelve moneeh have not been supplied with a constant preaching Minister, and at this very time on most Lords days there are above fifty Churches that are shut up and unsupplyed. 5. That in the Parishes of Llanvihangell Nantbrane, Llandilervane, Tralloigne, the College of Brecon. (where formerly there was a Lecture once a fortnight) and many other Churches, the Word of God hath not been taught these two years. That the Town of Brecon. being one of the chiefest Corporations, and most populous in South wales, the Town of Crickhowell, the Town of the Hay and Buielt, being all Market towns in the said County, there have not been any one constant able Teacher or Minister for two years last passed. And divers other towns and parishes in South-wales which might be instanced, whereby the people are much exposed, and the greater opportunity offered them to profane the Lords day, and spend the same in Alehouses, and other lewd places, to the great dishonouring of God, and endangering the souls and consciences of the Inhabitants thereof. 6. That the persons named and entrusted for Approvers by the said Act of Febr. 1649. do live very remote one from another, some in North-wales, some in South-wales, and one of them in London, who being also Itinerant Teachers, which makes their residence unconstant, they do meet but seldom to receive, entertain, and encourage others to come in and offer themselves to supply the rooms of the ejected Ministers, without whose approbation none can be admitted. Whereas the Commissioners in order to ejecting of the Ministers, and disposing of the Tithes and premises, do sit frequently by five, but by twelve for Appeals but very seldom. The Eight general Head. 8. That Children are not bred and educated in the Instruction and information of the lord] The Petitioners will make that good. 1. By reason of few Oxthodox godly able Teachers and Ministers are employed to preach and officiate in each County. 2. Because the good work of Catechising Children, and Instructing them in the information of the Lord is wholly laid aside in all, or most Parishes and Counties. 3. By reason so few godly Schoolmasters are allowed, and stipended for that purpose, and some of those employed and allowed of, are unfit for to undergo, or be employed in so great and weighty a business. More particularly, One Philip William, That is a young man of no competent learning for a Schoolmaster, yet nevertheless appointed head Schoolmaster, in the College of Brecon, being one of the chiefest Towns in South-wales, and that one Hugh powel is his Usher or Assistant (who indeed is the only able man for learning) being a known Papist, and one that hath formerly bred up many Children in Popery, to the grief and discomforture of their Parents, yet in the face of Town and Country allowed to officiate there. That one David Evans a stipended allowed Schoolmaster, at New Radnor (being the Shire Town of that County) is a drunken deboyst man. Hugh Jones of the County of Glamorgan the like. Besides divers others that might be instanced, whereby the Inhabitants are kept back, from sending their Children to be trained up in Religion and Learning, by such ill qualified Tutors. The Ninth General HEAD. 9 That the Inhabitants cannot take notice of the Parliaments Acts, Edicts, and Proclamations, wherein their public welfare, the liberty and safety of their persons and estates are concerned.] viz. 1. For want of a convenient number of Ministers in the respective Counties, by whom the same aught to be read and published to the respective Parishioners and Inhabitants. 2. By reason that some of the Itinerants are so ignorant, that they cannot read the Act of Parliament (for instance.) When the Act of Parliament for public Thanksgiving for the Victory obtained at Worcester, against the late King of Scots, was sent down to the County of Glamorgan, to be publicly read in all Churches and Chappells, to the Inhabitants, the Act being delivered to one Walter Williams to be read on that day, the said Walter Williams answered that he could not read the same. An Abstract of the Particulars. 1. Minister's ejected in the seven Counties; 237 and upwards. Besides Curates and Stipendaries, employed to preach and officiate for Pluralists and Impropriators Chappells of case, etc. 2. The number of the Parishes within the said seven Counties. 700 and odd. 3. The number of the present Stipended, Not above 100 allowed Ministers to supply those Parishes. So that there are 600 Parishes unsupplied. 4. The number of the present allowed, Not above 18. Stipended Schoolmasters. 5. The value of the Tithes, etc. received for the maintenance of Ministers and Schoolmasters. 20000 l. per annum, and upwards. 6. That several of the Ministers and Schoolmasters now Stipended, are drunken deboyst persons, some illiterate, others that are Malignant, and bore Arms against the Parliament. 7. The Tithes, etc. undervalved in all Parishes within the 7. Counties and the Commissioners account only for two years but of— 19000 l. or there abouts. Which is less than the Petitioners Charge and Offer by— 20000 l. or thereabouts. These were the Particulars faithfully transcribed, and Copied out of the Original; which were put in and lodged with the Committee. And because there is discovered an effectual Letter, under Mr. William Watkin's own hand (being Register to the Commissioners in Brecknockshire, and Radnor-shire, Clerk of the Peace under Major Gen. Harrison, within the said County of Brecknock, And lately servant to Colonel Philip Jones, who wrote all the Commissioners Orders; And had special influence upon the Sequestrators and their Agents, Received the Tithes of Bochwrd to his own use, and set out the Vicarage of Glasbury, being worth a 100 l. a year to his Carpenter for 50 l. a year,) which he wrote to Mr. Jenkins Jones, one of the Itinerants in Brecknockshire; I could not pretermit to insert the same to common view. A Copy of Mr. William Watkins LETTER, to Mr. Jenkin Jones. Dear SIR, THe twelve pound may be thus got. The Sequestrators is to take them up from Mr. Lewis, and when the money is Received, you may safely pay them, where you please, because it is such an Arrere that the Treasurer knoweth not of, for it lieth not in Charge before him. If Mr. Lewis denyeth what he confessed, Let the Sequestrator show him the enclosed Note. 8. Novemb. 1651. For Mr. William Jones, and Captain Morgan Sequestrators. IT is conceive that there is three or four years Rend due, upon Meredith Lewis Esq for the Prebendary of Llanuthul, He confessed to be due for one year, and told so to me about a month since, Your Servant, William Watkins. And this was added in the Perclause of the Letter to Mr. Jenkins Jones. IF that will not do, then let the Sequestrators demand a sight of his Acquittances since the year 1642. And then you shall find him out, Your Servant, Will. Watkins. 8. Novemb. 1651. Here is Mr. William Watkins his Directions to Mr. Jenken Jones, to get Twelve pounds] and that he dispose of it as he please] being an Arrere, which the Treasurer knew not of; And he gives the Reason for it, For it lay not in charge before him.] And left Mr. Lewes should any way escape the payment, he betrays the Gentleman's confession to him, and guides the Sequestrators to find him out by former Acquittances. Here is a pretty Trick indeed, who could wish a neater contrivance to find out Mr. William Watkins, or a more evident Demonstration, to descry to public view, How a man bearing such Offices, and so specially entrusted in the Common wealth, doth thus notoriously betray the trust committed unto him? But (Ex ungu● Leonem) I leave to the judgement of all conscientious Men to understand how plain the State hath been defrauded by such Plots; And what secret Correspondencies there are between Captain Jenkin Jones, and his Lieutenant, Mr. William Watkins to advance their Estates in the way of gainful godliness, appears by their business in the County, and City of Gloucester, where above a 100 Horse and Arms were raised (at the late coming in of the King of Scots to Worcester) which they both mounted with their own Men, and though they promised to restore the same again upon their return to the owners, yet they carried Horse and Arms to Brecknockshire, and never restored them back, which is worth his Highness' consideration. And so I proceed to the last part, which is, The Commissioners Answer, and the Petitioners Reply. III. The ANSWER of Col. Phillipp Jones. Bushy Mansell. John Price. Rowland Dawkins. Edward straddling. John Nicholas. James Phillips. Thomas Watkins. Robert Jones. Sampson Lort. Jenkin Francklyn. Rich. King. Rice Williams. William Blethin. John Daniel. John Herbert. John Bowen. Christopher Catchmay, Esquires. Commissioners for Propagation of the Gospel in Wales, and the Reply of the Petitioners of the Six Counties of South Wales, & County of Monmouth thereunto, lodged with the Committee for Plundered Ministers the 20 of August. 1652. and there Remaining of Record. The Commissioners Answer to the Petitioners particular Heads. The Petitioners Reply, to the Commissioners Answer. 1. Ans. THat there were none ejected, but in obedience to the Act, and upon clear grounds, and those that conceived themselves unjustly dealt with had their free course of appeal to this Committee, whether came one from Monmouthshire, but had the judgement against him affirmed, though he were in our opinion as meet for favour as any we proceeded against. 1. Rep. THat there were divers ejected contrary to the Act without due summons, and examination of Witnesses, and Copies of Orders, Depositions, Papers and other proceed denied them, whereby they were barred of their free course for appeal to this Honourable Committee; And if the Commissioners shown so little favour unto the one that did appeal (who is nameless) though he in their own judgement and opinion was as meet for favour as almost any they proceeded against (as by their Answer appears) what could the rest expect? And therefore no marvel if they appealed not to 12, where 5 of those that first gave judgement against them, sit to confirm the same. And so much the rather, because some of the Commissioners have publicly declared against the very calling and function of the Ministry. 2. Answer There are yet remaining unejected (127) and upwards of the old Ministers. 2. Reply. That there are not unejected of the old Ministers, the number of one hundred twenty seven as by the Answer is alleged: And that many of those that are left unjected, have been greater Delinquents against the Parliament, and more scandalous in their lives and conversations, than many of those Ejected. Comomis. Ans. to the 2. Head. 1. Ans. That we have not refused nor been wanting to give encouragement to any godly man fitted for the Ministry that was tendered unto us. Pet. Reply. The Petitioners humbly conceive that the Commissioners have not discharged their duties (in not refusing, and not being wanting to give encouragement to any godly man fitted for the Ministry that was tendered them) (admitting that to be true.) But rather it was their duty to provide such godly able men, as well as to ●●t those that were unworthy, according to the trust in them reposed by the Parliament. And the Petitioners do affirm that the Commssioners have refused and rejected some that have been approved by this Honourable Committee particularly Mr. Collier, Mr. Bywater and others; And the persons named for approved in the Act (being Itinerants, and living remote one from another) meet but very seldom to entertain and encourage godly men to tender themselves unto them; Wherers all possible diligence is used in ejection of the Ministers, and disposing of the Tithes, And have silenced Mr. Matthew Williams a godly able man, that preached gratis and had so done for many years before, not expecting any temporal reward, the Commissioners having no proofs of Delinquency or scandal against him, so that it is more than apparent their design tends to the extirpation both of the Ministers and Ministry. 2 Answer. That we have by special Messengers, Letters, and by all other means laboured with the Churches of Christ in New England, London, and the Universities, for a supply, and through the goodness of God have already procured seaventy five: besides the (127) above mentioned left unejected) approved able Ministers to preach the Gospel in those parts, that are most English, besides about (60) godly gifted men, that by the advice of the Ministers, named in the Act are appointed to preach to the Welsh. And there are about (80) more with us, which go about preaching the Gospel with great success in the Welsh Tongue. But taking no maintenance from the tithes we forbear to mention them. And though there are not as many able Teachers as we could wish, and are in a hopeful way of procuring, yet we may with safety say, the least County hath many more than by the Petition is suggested. 2 Reply. That the Petitioners humbly conceive that the Commissioners (had they been so pleased) might have found divers persons better qualified, and more fit for the work of the Ministry, than many of those by them employed not only in New England, London, and the Universities, but nearer home, but that the Tithes and Premises were of no small advantage to the Commissioners Agents, and the Farmers thereof. And as for the (75) 60) and 80) Ministers and Teachers alleged to be now employed, and stipended, besides the (127) pretended to be unejected, which in all make (342) The Petitioners do Av●rre, and will make it appear, if it please this Honourable Committee to give way, that there are not above (100) orthodox godly able Ministers (if half so many) stipended, allowed and approved of according to the Act, to supply the 7 Counties, consisting of (700) Parishes, And as for the Commissioners hopes of further supply of Ministers for the future, The Petitioners have little cause to hope, or believe any better performance for the time to come; since their proceed for nigh (3) years hath taken so small effect. The Commissioners 3 Ans. That we have endeavoured all we could to procure godly Schoolmasters from the University, etc. and have settled, and do maintain (29) which with those before in being make up (50) And are disposed into Market Towns, and other places most convenient within the said Counties. The Petitioners 3. Reply. That whereas the Commissioners pretend there are (50) godly Schoolmasters settled and maintained by them in the seven Counties; The Petitioners do aver and will make it appear there are not above (18) godly able Schoolmasters stipended, allowed, and approved of, according to the Act within the said 7 Counties, and several others drunken deboist persons, scandalous in their lives and conversations, and one of them a Papist if not a Jesuit employed assistant or Usher in the Town of Brecon, and others ill affected persons to the Parliament, and present Government, as by their particulars more fully appeareth; And that several Market Towns in the respective Counties are unsupplied with able Schoolmasters, to the decay of Religion and Learning, viz. Chrickhowell, Hay, Builte, Carmarthen, and other places. The Commissioners 4. Ans. That there are above 478 Parishes impropriated Parsonsonages and Vicaridges within in the said Counties unsequestred (2.) That for those that have been sequestered we have been exceeding careful to choose and intrust for each year honest, and reasonable men for Collectors in each County, and one Treasurer for the whole, that the accounts might be in the clearest way to be delivered upon the determination of the Act, or sooner if called for: As to the value in the Petition mentioned, though we took great care to appoint honest able men Agents, for the letting and setting in each County. We find they could not raise the whole Revenue of the Sequestered Tithes of the seven Counties to, but (9518 l.) (5 s.) 8 d.) for the year (1650.) And for the year 1651.) but (10418) 5 s.) 2 d.) And humbly conceive that more thereof could not be then made, out of which there is paid to Ministers, Schoolmasters, and others, according to the intent of the Act for Propagating of the Gospel, in the year 1650 the sum of (7923 l.) 13 s.) 5 d.) And for the year 1651 in part the sum of (5894 l.) 9 s.) 10 d.) the remainder whereof being for the year 1650: the sum of (1594 l.) 12 s.) 3 d.) and for the year 1651) 4523 l.) 15 s.) 4 d) resteth in the Tenants hands, so that the Ministers Probationers are not paid up their full sailares, for the year 1651. Nor some for the year 1650. And the Fifts and Contributions not fully known, nor allowed. Petitioners 4 Reply. The Petitioners do deny there are 478 Parishes impropriated, etc. unsequestred, as by the Commissioners answer is alleged; But acknowledge the Commissioners have been careful in employing Collectors, Treasurers and other Agents, in the respective Counties to let, set, receive and dispose of the Tithes and Premises, who have since their employments, improved their own Estates so well, that in so short a time many of them have become great purchasers; And it appears by the Commissioners own Answer, that they make account to the Parliament but for (19936 l.) 10 s) 10 d) for the years 1650, and 1651, although the Petitioners do affirm that the Tithes, and Premises within the said 7 Counties are annually worth 20000 l. and have, and do hereby offer so much for the same, and what hath been paid out of the Premises to Ministers, and Schoolmasters, will more fully appear by the Commissioners particular account, which the Petitioners have not yet seen, but pray a sight and Copy thereof, and liberty to surcharge the same. And for the sum of 1594 l. 12 s. 3 d) for the year 1650. and 4523 l. 15 s. 4 d. for 1651. that resteth (as they say) in the Tenants hands in arreare. The Petitioners do aver, that if any be unpaid, it resteth in the hands of such as are friends to the Commissioners, or their Agents, who for reasons best known to themselves, did not use their wont rigidness in Collecting, and Receiving the same, as hath been shown to others of further Relation; who have been forced to pay the triple values of their Tithes, and how well the Commissioners have disposed of the vast revenue aforesaid, may appear by their Answer annexed, wherein they complain of want of moneys to pay the Ministers approbationers; who are not paid up their full Salaries for the year 1650. nor some for the year 1651. though on due examination it will appear, that some of the Itinerants have not above 10 or 20 l. per annum. And the fifts and contributions not fully known, or allowed as by the Commissioners Answer is ingeniously confessed; Whereas one of the Commissioners, Major General Harrison, not long since openly confessed before your Honours, that there was a Bank of money in South-wales; And when the Fifts and Contributions are paid, and allowed what will accrue to the State is left to your Honour's consideration. And what hope the Petitioners have of a future supply of Ministers and Schools-Masters, for the 600 Parishes that are all destiture of Ministers, according to the Commissioners promise in their precedent Answer Particular (2) when in this particular part of their Answer, relating to accounts, they complain of wanting moneys to pay these few, and inconsiderate number of Ministers, and Schoolmasters now employed, especially when the Fifts and Contributions are paid and allowed; By all which it may appear to this Honourable Committee, the truth of the Petition, in relation to the aforesaid Charge. The Commissioners 5. Answer. To say nothing of the 127 unejected, we have taken care to disperse the Ministers above mentioned, paid out of the Treasury over the Counties as equally, and conveniently as we might with due respect had to the carrying on the work of God, and the particular inclination of the People's spirits, and through singular mercy to the Word of of God▪ hath in these last years been more frequently, and with more success preached then in many Ages before, whereunto we doubt not but those that have lately travelled through this poor Country, will bear witness. The Petitioners 5. Reply. That they have so dispersed them, that a man may ride 20 miles together on the Lord's day, and not find one door open, supplied with a constant able godly Minister, and how the Work and Word of God hath been propagated in those parts the two last years, the Petitioners do appeal to all indifferent Men, and especially to the Judges and other public Officers, who are and have been employed by the State there, and can give a further relation of the sad condition of those Countries, and what rents, divisions, and disturbances of the public peace have been made in those parts, since the Itinanaries were employed there to the distraction of the minds, and consciences of the people. The Commissioners 6. Answer. We have been very careful that it might not be so, but where it otherwise happened it was upon some of these ensuing reasons. 1. That most part of the year 1650. and in some places much of the year 1651. was spent and most of the profits raised by the scandalous pretended Ministers before they were ejected. 2. For better satisfaction of the Country and carrying on the Work of the Lord without offence to the people, we took order that the Sequestered Tithes etc. should be let to the Parishioners, that every man might enjoy what came from his own Lands, at somewhat a lower rate, in case they would take it, then to any particular farmer. 3. In some cases where the ejected Minister was much in debt, and had a great family, and no other Estate, and had Fifts due to his Wife, he or some of them was admitted Tenant at somewhat an undervalue, to answer these considerations. 4. Vicaridges that were heretofore in respect of Easter-booke offering, etc. received of the Papists considerable are now little worth. 5. The considerations had to Taxes, Reparations, and other incident charges, besides the general disgust against Tithes, and the disturbance put upon our Country by malignants at home, at the least Invasion of the Enemy, and since by the promoters of the Petition, by reason of all which we have found it no small difficulty, to bring them to the rate they are at. The Petitioners 6. Reply. 1. How careful they have been therein appears by the particulars preferred to your Honours by the Petitioners, which they are ready to prove, who do further affirm that a great number of the Ministers were ejected by the Committees of Sequestration, in the respective Counties in the years (1647) 1648. and part of 1649. which lay under Sequestration, when the Commissioners for propagation were impowered by the said Act, who acted so vigorusly in the year 1650. that all or most of the Tithes and Premises of the value aforesaid were Sequestered in that year, who have or might have received the same. 2. To this the Petitioners say, That since the exhibiting of their Petition, the Commissioners have made a formal Order, that the Inhabitants should farm their own Tithes for the ensuing harvest, thinking thereby to pacify the people for the former indirect carriages, and to prevent their prosecution of the Petition; But how well ever this new salver hath wrought, and been pursued can be testified by thousands of the poor Inhabitants, who have received little or no benefit thereby, the Commissioners Agents still farming their Tithes to their Friends, and Creatures at their former undervallues. 3. That neither the Ministers debts, nor yet the charge of Children, nor Family would induce the Commissioners, and their Agents to grant reasonable bargains to them, nor yet their Fifts according to the Act: unless to such of them that were especially befriended: and some could not have their Fifts, except they engaged to forbear the execution of their Ministry, and some had special allowance for not preaching. 4. That although the Inhabitants have little encouragement, or any reason to pay any Tithes, or any Offerings at all save only in Obedience to the Parliaments Authority, having so little spiritual comfort administered to them for their Tithes and Offerings, yet the Commissioners Agents have not been wanting in the exact gathering of the Tithes and Offerings, not omitting the very Tithe Eggs. 5. That the Commissioners, or their Agents have hitherto taken little or no care in repairing of Churches and Schools, divers of which are fallen to great decay, and what they allowed towards Contributions, may partly appear by their own showing particular 4. where the Commissioners ingeniously confessed, that the Fifts and Contributions are not fully known, nor allowed, and what disturbances the Petitioners brought on the Commissioners by their humble and modest address to the Parliament, setting forth their grievances, and craving redress thereof; Having neither themselves denied to pay their Tithes, nor persuaded, advised, or obstructed others from paying the same, the Tithes being most strictly and punctually paid then ever the Ministers received it, is humbly left to your Honour's consideration. And if there have been any disturbance at all, as indeed there hath been too much, the same hath been done, committed, and occasioned by the Itineraries & Commissioners Agents, by their threats, railing and invective carriages, and expressions against the Petitioners, threatening them with Sequestration and ruin, for petitioning the Parliament, which carriages of theirs the Petitioners humbly conceive to be contrary to the known Rights, Liberties and Freedoms of this Nation. And to what difficulty the Commissioners have been put unto, in raising less than 10000 l. per annum out of the Tithes and Premises, when as the Petitioners do offer 20000 l. per annum, for the same is humbly left to your Honour's grave considerations. The Commissionrs 7. Answer. That we fully know the contrary, as to places of any largeness, to which a considerable number of people belong; But there may be some few Chappells shut up, and decayed in the time of the Wars, which the Inhabitants adjacent, having a more large and convenient place near to attend the worship of God do neglect, besides the Reparation thereof is always to be at their particular charge, whereto they have received no hindrance or discouragement from us. The Petitioners 7. Reply. That as for those few Churches that are standing, and in reparation, the Petitioners have cause to bless the Lord, for the care of the Parliament, in making an Act to enable Justices of the Peace, to raise Taxations towards the Reparation of Churches, amongst whom the Lord hath been pleased to raise a few that desire the public worship of his Name. But as for the Commissioners care therein, who are many of them Justices of the Peace, they shown but small affections to support Churches, having contributed little or nothing towards so pious a work out of the vast Revenue of the Tithes, etc. which they ought to have at least wise so fare as it formerly concerned Tithes, whether Impropriate or Presentatives, since the Commissioners and their Agents received the profits, chargeable with such reparations. The Petitioners humbly conceived them bound in conscience, and according to the trust in them reposed, not only to repair and uphold the Churches, which is the least part of their duty, but also the worship, and glory of God therein; And what encouragement the Parishioners have to repair, and uphold Churches at their own particular charge, when they cannot get Ministers to Preach the Word of God therein, and perform those other spiritual Rights and duties, which appertain to the Church and Ministry of God is humbly left to your Honour's pious consideration. The Petitioners further averting th●● since this Itinerary way of propagating the Gospel hath been set on foot in those parts, the Pastors and their particular Auditors take more delight in Teaching and Expounding the Word of God, etc. in private Houses and other places, than the public Worship of God in public Churches, where the Inhabitants may have timely, and certain notice to resort to the same. And of this sad truth, and all other their Assertions. The Petitirners call upon the Great God of Heaven, who knoweth all the ways and secrets of man to bear witness, the matter by them set forth and averred being such visible public and known truths, that they do admire at the ways of these that gainsay, and go about to suppress the same; And the Petitioners next to the Lord do appeal to all indifferent Strangers, Travellers, Judges, Magistrates, that know those parts, and to all other Inhabitants there, other than the Commissioners, and Tithes gatherers and persons concerned to give evidence of the truth of what the Petitioners affirm. The Commissioners 8. Answer. That the Sheriffs and Civil Magistrates take care to have them proclaimed at their Country Courts, and other public meetings, and to post them up in all markept Towns, and the Ministers (where required) are not wanting therein. And we humbly hope those that formerly know our County, and now take notice of the alteration, wrought amongst them through the special kindness, and power of God going along with the Gospel, will not easily believe they suffer much themselves or the public from them by any fault therein. The Petitioners 8 Reply. That the Parliament have not only thought fit to command all public Officers in England, to proclaim, and make known all their Acts, Edicts and Commands to the Inhabitants, but have also thought it fit, and necessary to command all Ministers, and Pastors within their respective Congregations to publish and make known the same; To the end none may be ignorant thereof. And that none of the● poor Inhabitants may suffer the penalties of these Acts, for transgressing against the same, when they neither heard or saw the same, or were made privy therewith (there being a great distance betwixt Westminster Hall and Wales.) And therefore the Petitioners do well hope that the same commendable course, commanded, and observed in England, aught to be also Practised in Wales, being part of the same Commonwealth, subject to the same Law, and Authority, and not independent or distant from the supreme Power of the Parliament. The Petitioners acknowledging the goodness, and favour of the Parliament, to have been all along equally distributed to them in their Acts, Orders and Edicts as well as to other parts of the Nation. But the Petitioners with grief, and sadness of heart cannot but complain for want of the due examination, and observance thereof. And whereas the said Commissioners, or at least wise those that have put in their said Answer, under a show of Humanity, do uncharitably conceive, and give forth that the Promoters of the Petition are persons well known to be pretenders of the Work of God, thereby to carry on other designs, branding them abroad, and before this Honourable Committee by way of Recrimination, with the Name of Malignants, Delinquents, and all affected persons, and such as have a design to bring in power Malignants and to reinvest scandalous Malignant unpreaching Ministers, and Curates, notwithstanding their Petition and Prosecution thereof speaks the contrary, The Petitioners and Promoters thereof dare appeal (as touching the sincerity of their thoughts and affections to the Parliament, and the truth of the Petition) to the Righteous God, that judgeth righteously, and trieth the Heart, and reins, before whose Judgement Seat they doubt not but to appear as innocent, from those things laid to their charge, as most of their Accusers, who as they fear do judge before their time, and are wise above what is Revealed. The Lord only knows who are his, and who are only pretenders of true Religion, and who not, and who they are that drive and carry at self interest, under fair and specious pretences, and count gain godliness, making too great haste to grow rich (which true Believers dare not do.) The Petitioners therefore not regarding the judgement of men, dare trust their Good and Gracious God in all Conditions, And do humbly Acquiesce in his most Righteous Judgements. Earnestly beseeching your Honours, Seriously, Piously, and Christianly to weigh and consider the Premises, and the Particulars exhibited by the Petitioners. And as it was impossible for the Petitioners to prepare the particulars of the seven Counties in two Day's time, much less in one, so it was impossible to Reply to the Commissioners Answer, until they saw the same, and had a Copy thereof; Especially not understanding the meaning of the Order, until it was explained. And as your Honours favourably entertained, and received their particulars, though the Petitioners for the reason aforesaid failed in strictness of time; So they likewise pray your Honours to accept of this their Reply, the Petitioners having not obtained a Copy of their Answer, until your Honours by the Order of the 16th of July. did command, and Order the same, though your Petitioners ever since the 10. of May since it was lodged with this Committee, used their endeavours therein, which until July the 16th proved fruitless; And the Petitioners pray this Reply may be added, and annexed to their particulars, to be reported to the Parliament, that Command may issue fourth to the Country according to the Resolves of Parliament, to examine Witnesses for discovery, and manifestation of the truth of the premises. And the Petitioners likewise pray the particular Book of Account, mentioned in the Report of the Sub-Committee, may be produced, and the Petitioners have a Copy thereof, with time and liberty to sur-charge the same. And that your Honours would favourably consider of all the grievances in Order to a settlement, of a convenient number of Godly able Ministers, and Schoolmasters, such as the Parliament and your Honours shall approve of, and an account for the profits of the Tithes, etc. Received since the Commissioners were impowered. And that in Order to a future supply of such Ministers, and Schoolmasters, and improving, and advancing the Tithes and Revenues aforesaid; The Parliament will be pleased to take such course therein, as they shall think meet; for where is no vision the People perish: And so having done our best endeavours therein, and discharged our Consciences, we shall say no more at this time, but patiently wait on our God, who in his One time without doubt will bear Witness of the Truth by the Petitioners Averred in the Petition. In which they aim at nothing more than the Glory of God, the good of His Church and People, The true Propagation of his glorious Gospel; The safety and welfare of their Country in particular, and this Commonwealth in general, waiting in hope and Expectation of a blessing, and success accordnigly. Mr. Tho Lewis, Mr. Tho. powel, and Mr. Griffith Hatley, their Letter to Mr. Jenk. Jones. MR. Jones, we desire to be resolved by you whether the ejected Ministers of this Country, who have been silenced & suspended (now this long time) ab officio & beneficio may at last have the door of utterance opened, and be permitted to preach the Gospel freely among those that do much want it, & do as earnestly call for it, as the parched Earth after the dew and Rain of Heaven. The reason why we put this business to the question is: because about the last spring, some of our fellow Ministers, taking the boldness to preach the word of God, (were some of them) sent prisoners to Chepsto Garrison, others pulled out of the Pulpit, and all the rest were threatened to have the same measure meted unto them, if they should make the same attempts: and therefore we desire to know whether we are under the same restraint still, or are at liberty: we doubt not but that you can resolve us herein, as well as any other in this County, and we hope you will be pleased to satisfy our civil request herein, and vouchsafe a line of answer, which you may direct to either of the subscribers, who are Sir Your friends, as far as you are a friend to Christ, and his ways Tho. Lewis. Tho. powel. Griffith Hatley. Feb. 6. 1653 Mr. Jenk. Jones Letter in Answer to the former. Gentlemen, YOur Letter dated Feb. 6. 1653. I received the first of March. And in answer to what you propose therein, I shall only put you in mind that you are still, and (more) than like to be in the same condition, with those in the last Spring; And tell you that you are to expect the same measure from the * See the Government, or the Articles signed by the Lord Protector. present Power (whose connivance you seem (at least) to fancy to yourselves.) As your brethren had the last Spring from the (then) powers; And also that you need not pretend your being pressed as from pity to water the parched earth, there being more Sermons Preached (now) in one month, than were formerly in twelve, and with very much (though I dare not say with a greater blessing; consider the restraint-fearing-Spirit that's in you, Your friend, and servant, Jen. Jones. March 2. 1653. Mr. Lewis, Mr. Powel, and Mr. Ha●lies Reply to Mr. Jenkin Jones Answer. MR. Jones, we thank you for your Letter: wherein you have fully resolved us, what we must expect, if we Preach the Gospel in this poor Country; nothing but bonds and imprisonment (if you divine aright) abide us. If we be silent, and do not Preach, we are reproached, and if we do Preach we are menaced. A hard dilemma. Sir, notwithstanding your pains in preaching (which nevertheless is much abated of what it was, since you have caught the f●●h that you looked for) there are many dry and thirsty souls in this Country that are very seldom refreshed with the dew of Heavenly Doctrine, and for want thereof do daily relapse to Popery, and that in no small number; we could name above 20 Parish churches in this County, in many whereof there have not been above two Sermons this 12 month, and in most of them none at all: yet the Inhabitants pay their Tithes still as formerly. Their complaints have filled the ears of men long since, and have (no doubt this) ascended up to the ears of the Lord of Saboth We shall therefore (in compassion to these poor souls) adventure to bestow our pains among them, and put ourselves upon the candour & clemency of our present Governor, from whom we do expect (and doubt not to find) better measure than you forbade us; or then our fellow Ministers received (the last Spring) when other powers swayed, to wit, your own. That there are more Sermons preached (now) in a month than was formerly in 12. will hardly find credit, with any that knows this Country, and is such a story that men will admire to have proceeded from your Pen: since that we do not know of above two Itinerant Preachers, resident in the Country (and one of the two hardly worth the name of a Preacher) whereas formerly there was a preaching Minister (almost) in every parish (some Impropriations except) and most of them graduated in the Universities, and able and painful men in their callings. Consider better of that passage of your Letter, and consider what spirit you are of; for the Spirit of God is a spirit of truth, Nec mendax est, nec mordax. Your loving friends Tho. Lewis, Tho. Pow. Gr. Hatly. March 6. 1653. And thus you have a full Narration of the Petition, the Petitioners charge, The Commissioners Answer, and the Reply thereunto, which makes evident to all Christian souls, the deplorable Condition of the Inhabitants of Wales concerning their Souls we far, wherein they continue to this very day: enduring a Famine of the Word, and the Bread of life, being tendered unto them, is forbidden; As may appear by these Letters sent unto me from 3 Reverend and Orthodox Ministers, and Bachelors of Divinity, within the County of Brecknock, directed to Captain Jenk Jones, one of the Itineraries, with his unchristian, and insolent Answer thereunto. FINIS.