Caroloiades, OR, The Rebellion of Forty One. In Ten Books. A Heroic POEM.  Virg. Encid. Lib. 2. 
— quis talia fando  
Mirmidomum, delapumve, aut duri Miles Ulyssi  
Temperet a lachrymis—  

Licenced, May 22. 1688.  
R. Midgley.   
LONDON, Printed by J. B. for the Author, and Published by Randal Taylor, near Stationers-Hall in Ludgate-street, and are to b● Sold by most Booksellers in London and Westminster, 1689.   

THE PREFACE.  
WHosoever has Inspected the History of that Unhappy War which commenced in the time of King Charles the First, will grant that its wonderful and various events adminster as much Subject for a Poem of this Nature as has been Grounded on former Story: However deplorable the disparity may be as to our Historical facts and revolutions, in regard that these, from their horrid effects and contrivance, appear less credible than true, and propably shall have no future Parallel.  
That the Character of that Sovereign, which gives a Denomination to this Poem, may with no less Magnitude (considering the Excellency and Grandeur of his Endowments) be as renowned a figure for Heroic Poesy, as any which Homer or Virgil have attributed to the Greatest of their Heroes must be granted by all that are not Ignorant of their Nation's Glory, or detractive from the Fame of that Incomparable King.  
I shall not presume to adorn my Preface by displaying the especial and various dignities of Heroic Poesy which in my Case might savour of Ostentation, or not unlike an Architect that should endeavour to applaud some high performance of his Science to Insinuate his own desert in a work of the same Intendment: Being rather desirous to refer my Reader to what the Judicious have Celebrately expressed, in reference to this extraordinary sort of Poesy, without giving it any other Panygericks from my Pen. However I stand obliged so far to Vindicate my undertaking as to show that it is duly grounded and concenters with such requisites of Invention as have been allowably conceded to perfect an Epique composition.  
That this structure has been from the Pens of the most famous Authors, raised on some known Historical Truth, as the Basis or fond of such a Poem, is evident from what the first Grandees or Guides of this Science have left to the World.  
But if known story gave rise to their design, they relied upon the strength of Fiction, in order to the beautifying and completing the Model and shape of their contrivance: Not unlike the skilful Sculpturist, that out of some rough Mass of Stone polisheth and forms his several figures suitable to the representation he Intends them.  
True it is that known occurrences may something Agrandize a Poem, and the Readers esteem will be more pathetically moved by Transactions that are within the compass of Man's knowledge, however enlarged by Poetical Licence, than what he adjudgeth to be totally Fabulous, being induced to accept, on that account, what could not without Intermixtures and supplements of the Muses be elevately conveyed.  
Nor did the most remarkable Poets otherwise deliver the essential part of Historical Verity, then accompanied with Notions whereby they rectified the will or practical conduct of the Mind, by improving Moralities to the most useful and exemplary Comprehension: By which gloss and varnish of Imagination story was acceptably rendered, that otherwise had been restrained by too narrowly Circumscribing the sphere of Invention: and would be no less absurd than to expect a History instead of a Poem, and if it be simply the first it cannot deserve the name of the latter.  
Besides, it is very Notorious, that few Historians compile all considerable deeds or events, whose business is to observe Public and General occurrences, rather than the particular discovery of Personal concernments as they relate to Characters: Which ought to be the undertaking of the Poet who is Privileged to suppose what he Judgeth should be emphatically declared if possibly Cohering or Assimilated to whatsoever might, by way of resemblance, in any respect, be held Creditable; so that any Poetical Assertion, if thus Managed, must have a Legitimate Pass port from the Authority of the writer, and this may be Termed the History of the Poet, without which the vulgar or known cannot have to do with the Muses. Thus it appears that Narrations taken from the Trojan War did rather enlarge then confine the Pens of Homer and Virgil, to which they not only added the Embelishment of their Fiction, but Introduced what Characters they held proper to fill up and conspire with the Ornament and vigour of such as had their parts in the subject they treated.  
Neither would they limit their Inventions to the Ethical distributions of things, as they Naturally result from humane Cogitation, but occasionally advanced the intellect of the Reader to the most sublime apprehension of such speculations as entertained with delight and wonder the contemplative faculty; and this they effected by grounding their Fictions on supernatural Causes and effects consonant to received Belief: Either as they represented Miracles and Spiritual appearances of good and bad Existencies, as also extraordinary Prodigies, Dreams, Magical▪ Enchantments, Witchcrafts, and the like; that by an admirable Allegory did concur and agree with the deeds and descriptions of Men.  
And were this manner of Writing separated from the most famous Poets their repure would fall to a far lower Orb of Esteem then the Monuments of their Ingenuity have deservedly Obtained; which shows us that they well understood the value of this sort of Invention, and how necessary it was to the Royalty of Parnassus.  
Another supercilious Mistake has been Improved by some from their affected supposition that a Heroic Poem cannot be produced, Consonant to Christianity, with that requisite Latitude that was used by Poets of Ethnic persuasion.  
To answer which conceit, whosoever shall undertake to avow it, there is nothing more evident than that all Necessary use and Comprehension of Metaphor and Allegory relating to supernatural power existencies and beings, is as much ours as it was Assistant to the Ancients, tho' redounding from their Largest Catalognes' of Deities and Fictions.  
And this was well perceived by the late Judicious and Learned French Critic Rapine in his admirable reflections on this sort of Poesy, to whose exquisite observations, not to insert any remarks of Mine, I think fit to refer my Reader.  
In the mean time, to come closer to my purpose by alleging such Authorities as have the most undoubted Modern reception: I need but mention the Great Tasso, and our famous Spencer, by whose Poems, tho' the Productions of Latter Times, and agreeable to Evangelical persuasion, it is very clear that neither as to Fiction or Allegory, they wanted any Necessary Ingredients or supplements, if compared with such Poets who had been precedent to Christian Belief. I shall not present my Reader with any Inspections into the Poem of Spencer, it being upon the matter wholly Allegory, and therefore not so proper to the Application I intent.  
But as for Tasso, his Poem, tho' appertaining to Christian Achievements, and a Modern Story perfectly known to Chronology as any extant, is Intermixed with as many Episods and speculative Allegories as he could with any conveniency find room for in his Godfrey of Boulogne: Where in his handling of that History, we find that his Muse is conversant with Good and Bad Angels, Miraculous Shapes, Predictions, Dreams, Phantoms, Magical Dialogues, Fascinations, Flying in the Air, Obscure conveyances of the persons of Men by Diabolical contrivement, the stupendious opening of Trees, that seemed to disclose objects of wonderful variety to entertain admiration by rendering of his Characters more superlatively observable, all which are the main body and design of his Poem. Yet this was never made his Crime, by what the most accurate Critics have remarked on him: perhaps they may have taxed him for being excessive or tedious in▪ his Narrations and descriptions of this high Import, but never charged on him to the diminution of his esteem, or as an Illegitimate Licence, unbeseeming a Poet. And this our famous Ben. Johnson. well understood, whose mature Judgement gave as little room to extravagancies of the Brain as any that preceded him, by his introducing Sylla's Ghost whereby to infuse on the wicked Genius of Catiline a more Hellish and irresistible Temptation to perfect his Impious design, which could not have been so execrably Insinuated by any other Method.  
An Example that enough assures us that he approved the Allegorical part of Invention, and that it is as Legitimately ours, as it could be claimed by any of the Ancients, when properly applied. I held it convenient to instance these particulars, that the Reader may not wonder if I have in some passages and fictions followed the example of so great a Poet, as well as others that famously preceded him in that manner of Contrivement.  
It has been erroneously supposed by not a few, that are less knowing then Critical, whereby they render in their Judgements an Epique Poem more difficult to be accomplished, that whatsoever is supernatural, is therefore Incredible; not considering, that Fiction may imply an imaginary resemblance of truth, in its remotest suppositions, when allied to the Conceptions and Tenants of Men: And thus Medea might be granted as much a Sorcere●s as the Witch of Endor: And Niobe, tho' but on the Credit of the Inventor, Poetically held by the decree of Heaven, Metamorphosed into Marble, no less really effected, than the Transformation of Lot's Wife into a Pillar of Salt.  
The only Author, I know of, that has totally relinquished Allegory, notwithstanding he gives his Poem of Gundibert a Heroic Title, was the late Sir William Davenant, a person of no ordinary Ingenuity, however he thought sit to decline this manner of Writing, either because he would be singular in his way, or that he designed to surpass others by producing of something that should be great, without being of kin to the Grandeur of former Precedents: But instead of perfecting what he intended, the deficiency of his structure was soon perceived by the judicious.  
And this appears, because that work of his is wholly diffused into sententious Moralities and Actions that have too constant a Tendency to the same Level of thought, instead of a requisite Intermixture and Elevation of the Mind by entertaining of the spiritual or contemplative faculty.  
I am far from making this Inference with any Intention to attract Applause to myself, or to lessen the fame of that Author, since as his Poem stands composed it has my value: And I well know, notwithstanding the derogations and severities of some, that it contains many exquisite and remote expressions, insomuch that I admire that his undertaking appears so well performed as I find it, however destitute of that refining of speculations and characters which has been the judicious and superlative Management of all that preceded him.  
That the Introducing of Heroines was always held an ornament to Heroic Poesy, is evident from the Constant usage and authority of the most Considerable Pens: And their reason I conceive was to Impress a Transcendent value on the splendours of Beauty when accompanied with Grandeur of mind, and thereby more suitable to the devoirs of their Masculine Admirers: which Celebrated instances are very frequently read in Poets of most repute, as is understood by every eye that is acquainted with their productions. And tho' the Examples are peculiar to some extraordinary Figures of Female greatness, yet not dissentaneous to what has been verified from authentic Records, in which we may find not only the daring exploits of a Joan of Orleans, but the prowess of Queens; witness that Gallant Katherine, Wife to our King Henry the Sixth; besides many of every degree that for Martial renown are formerly registered.  
This I judge may sufficiently Apologise for what is related, or Charactered by m●… especially in that of Flavira, by whose Heroine Description I would be understood to Include the Magnamities of other Noble & Generous personages that might otherwise deserve their particular mention.  
And he that has Informed himself of the Courageous Actions of some conspicuous of that Sex, besides others of lower Stations, relating to the unfortunate War I write of, will soon grant that their resemblance may claim a signal room in this Poem.  
The next thing that I am obliged to be accountable for, is the Liberty I have used by representing of Persons by such Nominations and descriptions as are not derived from Historical certainty: And this method I take to be allowable by the practice of all that have Merited the Esteem of Epique Writers.  
As for Proper Names, it must be Granted, if but for the advantage that is in the sound of words as they ought to run in Verse; that our English Tongue does not usually furnish us with such names as are proper for Poetry, as we may observe from every ordinary Argument and Dialogue, that has to do with the Muses, in which Authors Insert or Borrow such denominations of persons as are most suitable to their purpose, and none I believe can with any colour except against the same Liberty I have used here.  
If we consider occurrences of whatsoever Magnitude, as they result from story, they cannot have Latitude enough, as they relate to things and persons, to embody or Capacitate a Poem of this Quality: In respect that no Truth can of itself complete a Poetical Character, which would on those Terms, in its utmost extent tend to no more than the known sense and concernment of persons, whereby the due Consummating of their figures would be Impaired, and which can be no way perfected but by the Artifice of Feigning in their behalf to render them more exact and complete in themselves. A Licence undoubtedly conceded by all approved Critics, in respect that Persons are delivered by that means rather as they ought to be represented then as they are found, or deduced from Historical Narrations: By which method the worthily Virtuous are advanced to a higher excellency, and the depravations of others delivered more perfectly Evil.  
There is yet a farther advantage that redounds from this Liberty of personating of Characters, in regard that by the aptitude of one person, either in reference to Science, conspicuous deeds, Passions, or affections of the Mind, divers may be signified, or in a general Sense described as to whatsoever Emergencies are to be understood that proceed from the facts or disposition of humane conduct.  
And this requisite is pertinent of Poesy grounded on History, since without that additional supplement the most Renowned Personages would appear too solitary figured on the Poetic account: Or like an Imperial Palace, that should Consist only of an outward shell instead of Variety of Apartments, Furniture, and Attendants, to Illustrate its Fabric.  
Nor is it a tolerable objection, if any shall undertake to avow it, that because this Poem does contain Transactions that arose within the Compass of the Age we Live in, it should therefore be denied the Perquisites of the Muses that were the former ornaments and advantages of Writers; in respect that so much as they used of Historical Verity is as fully discernible in them, from what they Poetically annexed, as in any Invention I have Inserted: And there is no Eldership in Wit that can of right Challenge more freedom, in order to Legitimate Fable, then is to be conceded to Modern Ingenuity.  
On our English Theatre 'tis sufficiently acceptable if the scene be laid at home, tho' the nomination and facts of Characters be devised either as they resemble or enlarge some known Truth: And I assure myself there is no Man but will grant as full a latitude, if not a greater, in some sense, to a Poem of this contexture than he would allow to any Dramatic Composition. But I have said enough, as to the substance of what I have here produced, to all Candid apprehensions, or such as are not resolved to be perverse or Ignorant opposers.  
And I dare thus far aver in behalf of my Subject, that no Rebellious, & Tragical dissensions, were ever carried on with more Hypocritical pretensions, Subtle and Treacherous Intrigues; or contrarily more famously replenished with Personal Gallantries, or the most touching and Noble Concerns of Duty and Passion, relating to Heroics of both Sexes, than what was occasioned by that wicked and unparallelled War.  
And above all for the Eminent display of the surpassing Character of a Monarch, more excellent than fortunate, as I have endeavoured to Manifest it as highly as my Ability extends, and I wish it could deservedly Erect his Monument of Fame and Glory.  

Postscript.  
HAving touched in general the construction of a Poem of this Nature, I thought fit to annex to my Preface some brief remarks that more particularly relate to the method I have used, and what the Critical Reader might Expect for his Satisfaction.  
As to my Verse, I have avoided Stanza's; and my reason is, because I conceive them not so proper, as the freedom of Heroic Measures for a Poem of this Structure; and this choice of mine is not only suitable to the manner of Virgil and other Ancient Poets, but agreeable to the most approved sense of Modern Criticism: I need not but instance the Judicious Rapine, who assures us that the Compiling of Stanza's was the mistake of some late Italian Poets, who first introduced them into their Heroic Poems, and that they weaken the beauty and flame of Verse in the length of their periods, on which, for the most part, the main substance of their sense does depend.  
And here I cannot but acqaint my Reader, that I took care that this work, as it is of great Signification and Import, should be advantaged by the Inspection of some few Persons, which caused me not only to correct but to add some hundreds of Lines; by which means I did, as much as in me lay, Ultimam Manum Imponere.  
As for the Moral of my Poem, the Soul of a work of this Consistency, it is Chiefly terminated in the exemplary greatness and virtues of the Royal Person I have endeavoured to delineate; whereby the unity of Action and other Accessories, that aught to be Incident to such a Composition, are properly, I conceive, observed: Yet with that Regard to History that the most Considerable Battles and facts of War are either related, or instead of room for all their particular, which had been more cumbersome to read then necessary to be Inserted in a Poem, Collaterally included by some pertinent and general mention.  
And whosoever shall duly Consider what is here delivered, as it refers to deplorable truth: will judge it rather a Divine then a Poetical Summons, to detest those Execrable deeds, Profanations, and Hypocrisies, that tended to the Subversion of Holy Religion, together with all Moral Obligations of highest Import, as they were at once the Unparallelled Misfortune, and deformity of Three Famous Nations.    

To the Worthy Author of Caroloiades, etc.  

LOng I expected that First Charles should Live  
In such a Poem as the World you give.  
His Character so highly did Excel,  
That I admire to find it Writ so well.  
No Royal worth did e'er in King appear  
But was in him, and such I read him here.  
And as his Sacred Virtues you rehearse,  
I fully grant 'em Canonised in Verse.  
His Famous Queen, by you described, I find  
Like herself Beauteous both in form and Mind:  
Vandiks best Art could neither of 'em show,  
So far his Pencil does give place to you.  
Smooth and succinctly great still run your Lines,  
A Genius in which Wit and Nature shines.  
Tho' hard an Epique Poem 'tis to Write,  
That can with that just Temper raise its height,  
Our British Heroes, tho' to story known,  
Have no Record like yours of their Renown.  
Thus Lucas and brave Lyle to Fame are read,  
Best as you Write their deeds and what they said:  
Whether as Heroes or as Lovers they,  
By Noblest Passions are expressed your way.  
The Rebel Patrons, and their dark designs,  
Are found by your Clear Lamp that flames in Lines:  
Stories their Actions but in parcels show,  
Whilst their Black Souls I fully see from you.  
And doubtless it approves your Muse's skill,  
That could describe their excellence in iii.  
Prodigious Noll, whose rise and wondrous height,  
I thought too big for the whole Nine to Write,  
Does from your Muse's Grandeur so appear,  
As he's, full sized, a mighty Villain there.  
Usefully great your Poem is designed,  
And Allegory unto Actions joined,  
And sure none will of such a Muse complain  
As to Embellish Truth can duly ●eign.  
And who would not that Artifice allow,  
Forfeits his Judgement justly unto you:  
But what need I prompt Men to do you right,  
When your Performance value does Invite.  
J. S.    

To the Author On his Poem of Caroloiades.  

WHen I a Painted story do behold  
Strongly designed, and figured smoothly bold:  
I judge it wrought by some proved ancient Hand,  
Whose Skill could Life and nature best Command.  
But as your Muse's Pencil well I view,  
It renders equalled Ancient Wit by New,  
Our Stories figures so in yours are shown,  
That in their likeness truth more pleased I own.  
If some by travel distant parts have seen,  
And what their greatness now and past has been;  
Yet never there, like yours, could poem Read,  
Written so well of men alive and dead.  
With how much joy will Living Heroes see  
Their deeds recorded thus of Gallantry:  
And what their Youthful toils in Bettells were,  
Or Wowds by prowess felt in that times War.  
Nor less the lineage of great Captains dead  
Will be obliged as their fames by you spread.  
Thus does your Pen Old Loyalty renew,  
And from its pattern fortifies the new.  
G. M.    

To the Author of Caroloiades.  

THo' I no Muse pretend to, as do some  
That to give Passports unto Wit presume:  
And judge if their Muse does the Author stroke,  
The favour, on the World, must pass his Book,  
I'll leave that part to such as can bestow  
On under-graduate Wit probation so.  
Whilst your works value best itself Commends,  
As to Parnassus' top its flame asconds.  
Morally great, Philosophic, and Divine,  
Yet nothing tedious in your Grand design.  
Throughout your Lines emphatical I see  
The Genius of Heroic Poesy;  
A Skill I sometimes thought above the Height  
Of English Tongue, or Poet best could Write.  
Fully I wish, to heighten Christian fame,  
That Brave Lorraine, and Great Bavarias' name  
Could find a Muse that might their Actions tell  
High, as your English Heroes do excel.  
That worth is yet remaining for your glory  
When your Pen will add Grandeur to their story.  
The Macedonian Victor, who for praise  
Envied the Muse Achilles deeds did raise,  
Unless that such a Homer, his might sing,  
From whose Immortal Verse did tother's spring.  
Surpassing either, to the World conveyed,  
I read First Charles, whose fames by you displayed.  
Thus brighter oft, in the Celestial sphere,  
The Setting Sun then Rising does appear.  
Great M●ro, to complete his Trojan▪ Prince,  
From Heavenly race derives his excellence;  
But had he this King's attributes renowned,  
His Virtue above Demigod he'ad found.  
Thus far has C●rolo●●des out done  
Aeneidos, the Theme▪ which Virgil sung.  
T. C.    

To his Worthy Friend Author of Caroloiades.  
SIR,  
YOu having been pleased to afford me the perusal of your Poem, aptly styled Caroloiades, when it was in its first rude, and rough draught, and before it was better shaped and corrected by you, I did freely give my sense and opinion on many passages, and you seldom differed from my sentiments therein. For tho' I am no great Judge of Poesy (as you may see by my writing to you in Prose) yet I am an Admirer of those refined Wits, who by the sweet harmony of Verse have conserved the History of those Ancient Wars, which might have been lost had they been wrote in Prose; and the Iliads of Homer, and other Antique Writings might have run the same fate of time, with many other excellent Histories, which perhaps perished, because they wanted the spirit and soul of Poetry to conserve them.  
The subject, Sir, on which you have chosen to Write, is worthy of an Heroic Poem; Our Wars more than Civil, with the ultimate Tragedy thereof, is such a period as is sufficient to silence all the Muses, and cause them abruptly to break off in sighs and lamentations. I know not how it comes to pass, that for these Forty Years, since which these Wars have been ended, that none of the Elevated Wits of our Age have taken upon them to describe these mighty Actions in Heroic Verse, until you happily took up this subject so worthy of your Pen, which I wish may delight as well as inform the World; and that when Histories fail, and are extinguished by time, your Poem may survive and give knowledge of what we have seen to future Ages.  
I am, Your very humble Servant, Paul Rycaut,   

CAROLOIADES, OR, The Rebellion of England. Begun in the Year, 1641. A HEROIC Poem.  
The Argument of the First Book.  

Unhappy War begun in Forty One,  
The Causes Mischiefs, here the Poet's Song  
Briefly relates: The Houses from their King  
Highly divide, whence discords soon increase,  
Nourished by Pasquil's, Libels, Threats, Demands.  
Nor Royal Acts of Grace suffice to calm  
All daring Vulgar rage: The Queen departs,  
And Heroine-like undaunted Seas does pass.   

THE Wars and period of a Mighty King,  
Which did from furious Crimes of Subject's spring:  
My Muse presumes here to describe by Verse,  
And Hero's deeds of Brave Renown rehearse.  
Whose English Valours, on account of Fame,  
Are no less blazed than Greek or Roman Name.  
Their Grandeur weighed, and such admired Designs,  
As give high Themes unto Heroic Lines:  
Had Homer them, or Mighty Maros' wit,  
Unto Times Future admiration writ;  
With every Fiction, as should intervene,  
For shilling Glory to each weighty Scene.  
And had their Genius, like some Sacred Merit,  
Left with Parnassus' Legacies of Spirit  
To be Implored from thence, I well might now  
That Supplication to my Soul allow:  
As wondrous Actions here my Verse relates,  
And things Prodigious formed against high Estates.  
No Civil War did e'er so Impious sway,  
When Subjects durst their Sovereigns lest obey.  
And tho' thy Reign First Charles sills no Record  
With spoils of Nations, or a Lawless Sword:  
The bad example of most Neighbour Kings,  
Whose stern Ambition unjust ruin brings:  
Yet in the even Conduct of thy Mind  
Was Grandeur above Sceptre unconsined.  
Not more dismayed when unthought Storms appeared,  
Then in best Calms whose change was causeless feared.  
And to Celestial Counsels only known,  
Why he, whose Virtue did adorn his Throne,  
Should so accomplished not successful be  
Against the Wicked when his Enemy.  
Vile in their rise, and in that more Accursed  
Because proceeding from Peace loathed first  
By Graceless hearts, which were too proudly bred,  
And from their Peace and Riches rancorous fed.  
Whence Faction's Itch did more envenomed sprout,  
Contagion spreading through the Vulgar Rout.  
And like quick Plagues, when mingling with their breath,  
The Crowd Infected ere they feared their death.  
With these high Evils poisonous Libels joined;  
Fame's Vulgar Magic, aptly then designed  
By men whose Subtleties could full delude,  
And to their ends engage the thoughtless Crowd.  
And next, themselves did wholesome Patriots blaze,  
More to allure the Vulgar's Giddy praise.  
Divulging faults where none Just fault could find,  
Or call that Crime which they for Crime designed.  
Nor less Supine against Church then State durst rail,  
Whilst Scots helped England with their Pious Tale:  
Or Covenant formed that speciously might bring  
Both Nations to Oppose their Laws and King.  
How did their knotty evils than awake,  
The Just Repose our Monarch's Rule did take?  
Abroad he saw Peace blessed him every where,  
No Less Made Foreign Wonder then their Fear:  
Nor more, at Home, did Troubles apprehend,  
Who thought, his Good might others Evil mend.  
Whence Heavens permissive Will did him allow  
Much ready Justice with a Sword too slow.  
A Merit that on bad Men little gains,  
Whose fear, not love, their duty most retains.  
Now popular fury, with it hoped for Swinge,  
Had set Commotion on the smoothest Hinge.  
When Lowed desires brought Parliament Estates,  
To colour more three Kingdom's wretched Fates:  
In hope the Sceptre without blow might fall,  
Or shared by Lords and Commons at their Call.  
No Negative Will their Sovereign they'd admit,  
All they would Act, nay kill as they thought sit.  
Thy blood Great Strafford foremost must be Spilt,  
His Head their fear, and death no loss their Gild.  
Whilst Pozed the Senate's Artisice to Maintain,  
That Law did Treason in his Case Explain.  
Whose fall his Prince's Cares did much Augment,  
Who grieved, yet grieving gave his wronged Consent.  
Flattered with hopes of future good from Men  
That were bad first but to be worse again:  
And shows to Kings how dangerous they Comply,  
When they (with evil) Subjects Gratify.  
Nor less the Multitudes unruly Fate,  
Who thought his Blood more prosperous days should Date.  
Not judging Heaven had but deferred the time  
When they must bleed to expiate their Crime.  
All which the Politic Houses had foreseen,  
When left to Crowds Seditions welcome Scene.  
Well knowing that such must for their Crimes be stroked,  
Before they could be more subservient yoked.  
Or Grants obtained, Be aiding unto more,  
That should confirm an everlasting Power  
To sit and Vote; To which their Prince Agrees,  
Hoping to win them with Benignities;  
And this High gift like which none e'er had been  
By Subjects asked, or given by English King.  
Whilst they neglecting his too facile Grace,  
Give to their ask still a bolder Face.  
Resolved to Compass such Disloyal things,  
As should dethrone him with his line of Kings.  
No thoughts like these did complicate his Cares,  
And pierced him deeper in his Consorts Tears:  
Her Person Menaced and defamed by those  
Who most did high disorders then dispose.  
Which tho' against her Ingloriously applied,  
Yet no occasion she her Soul denied,  
That to her King her Value could assure,  
Or tell the World what she'd for him endure.  
To whom, with Mien and Greatness duly Joined,  
She briefly thus expressed her Glorious Mind.  
What Fate soe'er in these Commotions lies,  
Or sury staring in your People's Eyes;  
Should it shame Stars that such presages guide,  
Or to your Rebel Subjects join their side:  
No day, from aiding you, shall me deter,  
How dismal ere may look the face of Warr.  
Too sure your friend, your Foes do me suspect,  
Since my Soul most your Cause must needs affect.  
Like which no Glory from my Life can spring,  
Or Courage in the Wife of such a King.  
What Ally won't your Wars concern embrace,  
Or Prince descending from a Royal Race,  
When I your praises shall to them declare,  
And how Complete to Rule your Virtues are:  
These, your best Standards, I'll abroad display,  
If through the Ocean Stars assist my way.  
To these obligements of her Soul to him,  
Whose Virtue best their Merit could esteem;  
He thus replies: If Heaven designs to me  
By Peace or Warr a due prosperity:  
The greatness of thy Mind and Love I'll own,  
Above Attempts that may support my Crown.  
My Kingdom's dangers threaten every where,  
As from black Clouds Men future Thunder 〈◊〉▪  
Fierce popular rage above its Region swells,  
Whence few discern where most the mischief dwells:  
But more severe that Crime unto my Heart,  
As your affliction has with mine its part.  
What Absence can you sever from my mind,  
Where like another Soul your value's joined.  
Whilst I assisting of thy Just Retreat,  
Show my Affection's no less kind than Great.  
Nor would I that true Annals should disperse  
My Acts of Glory, and not Thine rehearse.  
His Queen in whose Heroic Soul did meet  
All things that Love and Majesty complete▪  
Yields to depart, with so Serene a Grace,  
That Gries seemed vanquished in her Tender Face.  
Much kindness she expressed, and more forbears;  
Lest Words too sadly should produce her Tears:  
Or that her Soul to utter wanted power  
How kind she'd leave him in that dismal hour.  
Such Nobless as with Duty did attend  
On this Departure, how did they contend  
To six Impressions on their Souls that might  
Admire the Grief and Grandeur of this sight?  
Nor Judged they sorrow could enough Address,  
With tears their wives and daughters did Express▪  
As they feared evils from that hour would spring,  
That destined was to part a Queen and King.  
Thus they Lamented; and next Jointly pray,  
That Heaven might safely guide on Seas her way.  
And from the Glory of her Voyage yield,  
Fa●r famed Assistance to her King in field.  
Winds soon their wishes take, whilst Neptun's face  
His Azur'd Curls and smoothest Billows grace:  
Proud that his Swiftest waves her freight must bear,  
As her stout Ship to Belgic ports did steer.  
Had former Poets this Atcheiument known,  
Not their verse Thetis Queen of Seas would own.  
Since Love and Glory more Sublimely raise  
A Consort to our Empire on the Seas.  
The Queen thus to a Foreign Coast retired,  
Where Highest Potentates her worth admired,  
And how she more than Woman's skill applied,  
That her King's Cause might soon be supplied.  
When Belgian States (so long obliged had been  
To Famed Elizabeth our English Queen;  
By whom their Body-Politique did rise  
In spite of Spain then held so Great and Wise)  
She with Pathetic words did highly move,  
Wishing their Power as Grateful as her Love.  
Since by a sad Vicissitude of Fate,  
The English Crown Courts their obliged State:  
Letting 'em know to what a Glorious end  
They may for ever be called England's friend.  
To which the Belgic State, with Supine pride,  
(Th' effect of Power and Riches) thus replied;  
What er's the Cause that this Address does bring,  
Thus Honoured by the Queen to Britain's King.  
An Envoy, which our Greatness must confess,  
Does more than Humane Majesty express:  
Far be't that our now Mighty-States disown  
Their past Oblig'ments to the English Throne,  
By whose brave Aid's we did best force obtain  
On Land and Sea to Curb Aspiring Spain.  
And what is more, did next advantage take  
Ourselves (of Subjects) Mighty Lords to make.  
For which Spain Loudly did us Rebels call,  
Who durst hope Safety by that Sceptres fall.  
A bold Necessity which Subjects brings  
First to oppose, and then Dethrone their Kings.  
Whether the British quarrel be the same,  
Or from a specious grievance would disclaim  
Like us their Monarch's Rule; in either Case  
We can't the English Crown's demand embrace.  
Lest held our States high Blemish to resist  
Our Prince at Home, and one abroad assist.  
We with most Kings a free Commerce Maintain;  
Whose coin may Ships, Arms, Men, from us obtain.  
No Princes Wanting Cause our States espouse,  
To gain's our business when our Neighbours Lose.  
The Queen by prudence and experience taught,  
Disdains to utter the Contempt she thought,  
These Courser States deserved, tho' well she knew  
How few Dominions are to others true,  
And what a Cold redress most Princes finde,  
When Fortune is to their affairs Unkind.  
Yet with herself concludes (tho' stripped of all  
That could a Monarch's suffering Spouse befall)  
Nothing to Mis-imploy that can assure  
Her King's great Safety, or his Aid procure.  
Such Matchless Gems whose Luster did adorn  
The Diadems which English Queens had worn;  
She, as her Glorious Offering did bring  
To purchase aid, more Sacred, for her King.  
No sooner Covetous Belgians these behold,  
But they Comply (on such) to lend their Gold:  
Tho' adding to the Sum before denied,  
So Sure are Mortals by their profit tried.  
But oh the Fate of Princes that deplore  
Their want of power as well as being poor,  
Orange, who from Imperial Lineage Came,  
Had by Alliance no less mingled same,  
In seeing late wedded by his hopeful Son,  
The eldest Princess of the British Throne:  
With Generous Greatness to the Queen thus speaks,  
Since my Blood Glory from the Rule partakes  
Of your Just King, 'twere mean should I deny  
My Purse to aid his Injured Majesty.  
Wishing my Treasure could alone Complete  
Such Noble source as might his foes defeat.  
And did not Age forbid, with such affairs  
That here Employ my person and my Cares,  
I'd like a Soldier amongst his Bravest Fight,  
And Honoured if my death his Cause could right.  
The Queen thus furnished by this Great Ally,  
To purchase Arms and Men she does apply  
Her soon Care, Next Martialists consults;  
And then does ponder from their bold results,  
How best to guide her Force, what Port to find,  
Wishing her Love could wings add to the Wind.  
That soon returning with well-formed Power,  
She might her Charles assist some useful hour.  
The Queen thus active in a Foreign State;  
My Muse shall by her Measures here relate,  
A further Progress of Intestine broils,  
And how our King prepared for Martial Toils.  
Whose Rule, by stubborn Evils then oppressed,  
Tho' it so long Ingrateful Subjects blest:  
Who Kingly Grace and pardon durst neglect,  
The Balms which Public Cures so oft effect.  
Which Impious arrogance did then Improve  
In such, who their Prince would not fear, nor Love.  
And Notioned thus th' Impetuous Crowd was taught  
To vent defiance, to his Palace brought.  
Whitehall his Sacred residence beset  
By Crowds, for Threats and Terrors there had met,  
No Humane Violence could with this Compare,  
But in Men-Monsters who denied to Fear  
The Heavenly Sceptre Jove was thought to hold,  
When he Olympus saw attaqu'd of old.  
The King, enough deploring, soon beheld  
Th' Inflamed vulgar Fury unrepelled  
By London Magistrates due advice or aid,  
Where more than Law was Factions then obeyed.  
Who durst his Palace wish despoiled by such  
That Royal Mansions thought for Kings too Much,  
The King less grieved from his Loved Court to move,  
Then there to trust such Pledges of his Love,  
Whose Tender years could not his haste partake,  
Nor Left behind securely for his Sake.  
His Lands, Towns, Treasure, soon to be possessed,  
By such as wished his Crown should be oppressed.  
Whilst he retiring (like that Trojan Prince,  
Who could no longer be his Troy's defence,  
Yet with high Courage Resined there from Fut●  
The Princely Heir of that declining State,)  
●ad many dangers passed that round him stood,  
When saved the Blooming Hero's of his Blood.  
●is Prince of Wales and York's Duke young in years,  
Preserved from Foes by his Supremest Cares:  
And by their Father's Suss'rings grew to know  
The straits to Glory they must undergo.  
Who tho' he Kingdoms had, and Cities Great  
Which owed obsequiance to his Regal State,  
Yet in their vast Circumference knew not where  
'Twas best to Influence first his Martial Sphere.  
Till too like Private Majesty removed,  
And Journeying far his Prudence had approved  
The North's 
* The City of York.  Metropolis, to which adjoined  
Regions to Loyal Glory full Inclined.  
And being a Prince resolv'dly Great and Just,  
In Law supporting as his Sceptres trust:  
Thought Heaven and he divinely were obeyed,  
When Subjects should his Cause most dauntless aid.  
Soon did the Nobles then themselves convey  
Unto their King, scorning from him to stay,  
Or with time-serving Disobedience slain  
Their part of Honour in his Glorious Reign.  
The Generous next their Brave Example take,  
Whilst soon, their worst remains, both Houses make:  
An Impious Body-Politique to sit,  
Where future Parliaments may blush to sit.  
Since from that Fatal late abused Name,  
A spreading evil kindled first its flame.  
Unhappy Westminster so oft to be  
The Seat of Public Good and Infamy.  
Our Second Edward and our Richard tell,  
How black, from them, thy Records there do dwell.  
And what adds more unto thy Monstrous Date,  
The Best of Kings there doomed to wicked Fate.  
Which Deeds with their Prodigious Story may  
Unequalled stand to the World's ending day,  
Nor could the Houses subtlest Gloss evade  
Reflections by the Wise were early made:  
When Actlons, however worded, did imply,  
They pointed at the fall of Monarchy.  
Designed by such, to Rule, would force their way,  
Tho', Slave-like Fellow-Subjects them obey.  
From which Ambition (oft man's proner Curse  
When tempted by bold perils to be worse)  
The face of War did gradually appear,  
Foreseen by more than durst divulge their fear.  
Seditious Scotland, that had first begun  
To form Rebellion before Forty One,  
And from their wicked Precedents had been  
Slily instructed in this Impious Sin;  
That where known Story most Allegiance blots,  
'Twill doubtless yield to History of Scots.  
England they saw they could not then compel  
To grant them Seats where they might warmer dwell.  
For which our King they envied, tho' their own,  
But most, because most Happy in our Crown.  
Craft thus employed that subtly had enclosed  
Their laboured Mischiefs, which they thus disposed:  
Their Schism and Faction, unto England brought,  
Intrigued so firm that with their Snares 'twas caught.  
Which to uphold both Houses joined their Vote,  
That with Armed Scots their Arms they might promote.  
Rebellious Ireland, that could not stay  
Till Sc●…ch and English Blood was cast away,  
With headstrong guilt begins this wicked Time,  
Few apprehend which Nation's greatest Crime.  
The King his Person offers to oppose  
Against his Irish Rebels, yet not knows  
Which Kingdom would to him most safety yield,  
Or where best first for him to take the Field.  
England, his dearest Pledge, employed his Grief,  
Whilst bleeding Ireland called for soon relief.  
Which lest he should Conduct the Houses pray  
That he at home as unsecure might stay.  
Resolved their Power his Arms should first oppose,  
More to encourage every where his Foes.  
Fearing lest he from Just occasion might  
Others subdue, and next them stronger fight.  
No Sword by their Consents with him they'd Trust,  
Whose great Revenge they feared, yet knew 'twas Iust  
Essex, whose stubborn Will and sullen Pride  
Had with this Poplar Faction long complied,  
With greater Zeal Heads their Rebellious Cause,  
Nor grants 'tis guilt to fight against the Laws.  
Who fwayed by specious Arts, and thirst of Fame,  
Discerned not then a Loathed General's Name.  
Forgetting whence Nobility did spring,  
Or how 'tis stained when Armed against the King.  
Thus crowded into Power he Leads that Force,  
Which the bold Houses Vote their Foot and Horse.  
Numbers no Less than Mighty to Empower  
The evils which that Age did soon deplore.  
What was thy Crime, O London! then to be  
The Numerous Aid of this Calamity:  
Was it because thou wert too richly great,  
Or too long pampered in a blessed Estate;  
That thy Ingrateful heads than seemed to ache,  
And by pretended flame a Fever take,  
An Artisice to worst Delusions joined,  
As Zeal transported had the People's Mind.  
And if my Verse a Prospect duly take  
Of what did then so fierce Transactions make,  
Truth soon declares that 'twas no public Sense  
That had diffused so vild an Influence.  
But heatfull Parties that within their Frames,  
For ends devised, had raised such horrid flames;  
And but the name of Parliament did feign,  
On purpose to convey a larger stain.  
And which no well-formed sense allows to be  
That full Conventious Public Infamy.  
A Constitution Great to all effects,  
As it our Good discerns and Bad detects.  
From whence the Nation best their Pulse perceives,  
And when 'tis sound more soundness than receives.  
If Crazed, or will not other help endure,  
That proved State-Phisick can complete the Cure.  
And what, beyond all Treasures, Aid Imparts,  
It both receives and gives the People's Hearts.  
An Envied Glory through which Nations see  
Cause to repine our just felicity.  
When wild exorbitance of Pride and heat,  
In other Rules have their pernicious date.  
And more detects our Late Unhappy Times,  
In which Men boldly strove to heighten Crimes:  
Kindled by such on each side did Convey,  
Their fiery Ends the most destructive way.  
By perverse Parliaments the Factions sought,  
That low and poor their Monarch might be brought:  
Denying, for their ends, their public Aid,  
As fi●st their Niggard purse him disobeyed.  
Which forced Prerogative, by Royal Right,  
To claim, for Common good, the Purses Might:  
An Aidful Power that Scop●…▪  
Lest Subjects ill retain what Crow●s should 〈◊〉.  
Tho' popular Patriots did this Act disown,  
And cast aspersions on the straitened Throne;  
As they against Shipmoney disgusts proclaim,  
With high Contests, which to Tribunals came;  
That their Great Monarch's Rule might want supply,  
Till Senates should less peevishly deny.  
When this famed King, whose Soul was full propense  
To give his Royal Claim no wrong defence,  
Consented to give Law it's due repute,  
That Legal Process might his Plea promote.  
Which Misconceived in a furious Time,  
When Jealousies and fears durst vent their Crimes,  
By deeming things undutiously amiss,  
That men might thence distrust their Nation's Bliss:  
Ceased not their Rancour, tho' by 
* By Act of Parliament Ship-Money was damned, by which and other Gracious Condescensions the King endeavoured to prevent the future Miseries of his Nation.  Act of State  
This Tax abolished was to Lasting Date,  
As they abetted a Disloyal fear  
Of Oblique Motions in the Royal Sphere:  
Whence Crowds were Taught more strictly to embrace  
What then was called their senate's sighting Case:  
Lest that subdued they might be next undone,  
And Lives and Fortunes grant by Conquest won.  
A Sense devised by obloquys of Fame  
To blemish their King's Rule and Sacred Name.  
Thus some did with most horrid Arts devise  
How to Impose on all more Just and Wise.  
Such subtle Members as the Houses swayed,  
Soon their Delusions takingly conveyed:  
With what by Vulgar Fury could promote  
The Cause which their sierce Patrons first did Vote.  
To which their violent Spiritual Guides complied,  
Who taught Rebellion then was Sanctified.  
Was't not enough that former Ages found,  
How such Incendiaries did then abound:  
That Pulpits must afresh divulge their flame,  
And, stead of Beacons, public Broils proclaim:  
Provoking Heaven and Inauspicious Stars  
To haste the bloody Aspects of our Wars.  
When in their Orbs the rest began to fear  
Lest Mars, in spite of Jove, should domineer.  
Nor less the Azur'd Regions did presage  
Prodigious Fights and Battles in that Age  
Arms, against Arms, to men's affrighted eyes,  
Seemed as arrayed Battalions on the Skies;  
Where flashings did like Guns discharging show,  
And Flames resembled Pikes in Skirmish too.  
Most feared what these strange Visions should portend,  
Or hoped Heaven might by them bad men amend.  
Whilst nothing the fierce Houses then restrained,  
Or that rough 
* Of Essex, who was the first General, and Head of this Grand Rebellion.  Earl whose Conduct they had gained,  
Not, as they did for Blood and Treasure thirst,  
Or would for Horrid Spoils of War be Cursed:  
More specious they seem Laws and King to treat,  
So subtly Mortals would their guilt abate.    

The SECOND BOOK.  
The Argument.  

Intestine Discords by what Method spread,  
The Quarrel the unhappy Title bears  
Of King and Parltaments opposed Arms.  
And like the body of the State confused,  
The Members differ: Towns, Cities, Counties,  
Miserably behold their Magistrates,  
Tho' Guardians of their Peace turned Enemies,  
And armed in this destructive War appear.   

WAR thus prepared and boldest Summons sent  
T'Incite more swiftly Minds to Fury bend,  
Without perceiving the Impetuous Source  
Of boundless Evils, which their Crimes did force.  
Or that Peace seemed their Universal pain,  
Till after War 'twere begged of Heaven again.  
A Crisis oft gives Furious Tempers ease,  
When War's rough Physic proves their worst disease.  
What man can in most touching Numbers show  
The various Ills with that Time's Licence grew:  
When neither tie by Blood, or Parent's Tears,  
Nor Conscience which man's Soul diviner fears▪  
Could Son or Brother's daring heart deter  
From being allied more guilty by this Warr.  
Or not with headstrong fury soon oppose  
The side their dearest Friends for safety chose.  
Nor did the Aged then forbear to show,  
That Peace was withered no less than their Brow:  
Conspiring in the Autumn of their Time,  
To misguide others by their Graver Crime.  
Whence Evils with more Grandeur did augme●…t,  
As Age taught Youth so little to repent.  
And by their joint endeavours did assure,  
That this Wars fatal flame would long endure.  
The Forts and Castles that had slighted been,  
And by their Ruins told Wars Ancient Sin;  
Laborious hands did Numerously repair;  
And with their Dusty Toils obscured the Air.  
Whilst distant Men affrighted did behold  
New forms of Terror far surpassing old.  
When but Bows piercing Shafts from Bulwarks flew,  
And not so horridly— as Guns Men slew.  
Thus some Lamented, whilst the Many strove  
Their Nation's fury highest to improve.  
And did Tumultuous Rage through Regions spread,  
With Thefts from Wars bold Licence sadly read.  
Some total Plundered and their Persons sent,  
Reviled by Crowds, to loathed Imprisonment.  
Whilst others forced from Houses and Estates,  
Were left like Wanderers unto wretched Fates.  
Tho' Charged upon their Souls no other Crime  
Then not to Aid the Mischiefs of that time.  
When violent Men Delinquencies durst make  
In such as would not Peace with them forsake:  
Or hoped that Moderate quiet might be had,  
When but to live secure was counted bad.  
Number the People's Monster, like the Birth  
Of that vast Giant famed the Son of Earth;  
It's own unwieldy Power did roughly bring  
To Aid Intended Arms against the King.  
Who tho' his Life and Crown he soon might Stake,  
Beheld his Levies for his Cause too weak.  
Courage his Hope sustained, and Conscious Right,  
Which to defend Best Kings renown'dly fight.  
But e'er his Enemies did near him join,  
Or Reinforcements further their Design;  
Their strongest Parties vigour he'd first try,  
And teach them from his Sword 'twas Just to fly.  
Whilst then his Power in Horse began to spread,  
And by most Generous Blood of English Led;  
Of whom he thought no praise enough could be,  
Or Greatness joined unto their Dignity,  
Until Great Rupert, his Renowned Ally,  
He made First Captain of their Cavalry.  
A Prince that did in his High Lineage join  
Best Germane Race with England's Royal Line.  
And what did most embellish his High Blood,  
No less in Story famed for Brave then Good.  
Who for this Expedition duly chose  
Troops best approved to meet the hardy Fo●●.  
Worcester that had Allegiance early shown,  
When many Cities were disloyal known;  
(Tho' her distress from future Fate did bring  
A Second Charles to live an Exiled King.)  
Implored of Heaven a soon Auspicious hour,  
As near her then took Field the Royal Power.  
To which Campagne the Houses eager Vote,  
That War, on their part, should its haste promote,  
Had sent their firmest Regiments of Horse,  
In hopes they'd there succeed by strenuous force.  
Sands had these Glittering Troops; resolved for Fame,  
Led to this Field with full Courageous Flame.  
His thought's with Number raised and boldest Pride,  
To be held early signal by his Side.  
Not as he would the Juster Cause maintain,  
But Glory sought mixed with pernicious Gain:  
Which profitable Encomium much did sway  
Men that the Houses served for Praise and Pay.  
His Troops encountered, swift Resistance find;  
And next like Stubble scattered by the Wind  
With a Confused Haste their flight confound,  
Whilst with their gasping Friends Death strews the Ground.  
Their Resolute Chief whose Courage could not yield,  
Timely to grant his Foes the Conquered Field,  
Too deeply wounded is a Captive made;  
The Prince, with Courteous grief, his Cure assayed  
By best skilled Surgeons who his wounds explore,  
But found, too far past aid, his Vital Power.  
Nor did his Valour harden so his end,  
As't did his Cause then Courage more commend.  
Great Rupert prosperous thus and filled with hope  
To gain by future Conquest further scope;  
Unto his Royal Uncle did retire  
With many Trophies of his Martial Fire.  
The King with Temperate Thoughts so poyz'd his Mind,  
That no events in him a Change could find:  
To his Brave Nephew, with Indulgent Grace,  
Did thus express; Tho' of my Princely Race,  
I gladly prove thy Valour such as may  
Preserve my Sceptre in each doubtful day,  
Should my Opposers fiercely still adherè  
To slain their Crimes more deeply by this War:  
Yet 'tis my Royal Soul that bids confess,  
That I must welcome less, than they, Success.  
Tho' they fight to resist what I maintain,  
Yet still my Subjects are on both sides slain.  
Wherefore so Led my Battles that I may  
When Victor show more Mercy still then they.  
As with Calm Glory thus the King expressed,  
A Warlike heat inflamed Great Rupert's breast:  
Who thus replies, Since your severest Foes  
Cannot your steady Greatness discompose;  
In nothing I'll be wanting to incite  
Your boldest Troops with forward Zeal to fight.  
Nor shalt be said that I one Peril shun  
Where Service can for you by Arms be done.  
Unto your Powers Heaven daily does dispense  
Aids undiscerned by Humane Providence.  
Your Royal Standard no where is displayed,  
But Welsh and English gladly are Arrayed.  
Who, when War's Discipline improves their Might,  
Will soon for you undaunted Soldiers fight.  
The King tho' in his Nephew thus beheld  
Example's Grandeur, which had oft upheld  
Daring Attempts by forward Captains Led  
Who Fortune's briskest Smiles had sometimes had:  
His Nobless, Gentry, to Achievements prone,  
That most Magnanimous might assist his Throne.  
Yet could not ●e allay such Anxious thought  
As his Affairs in prospect to him brought.  
His Forces newly raised and thinly Armed,  
And more the Sinews of their Hearts uncharmed  
By Coins alluring force, his Treasure spent,  
Or greatest part, unto his detriment!  
By the bold Houses rigidly possessed,  
And in that Nerve of State him first distressed.  
Whilst, to his grief, his wanting Files might say,  
That Duty set off almost all their Pay.  
All which did in their Grievances declare  
How deep the King concerned and Nation were.  
Throughout its Parts and Orders un-intire,  
And Notioned as did lest their Peace conspire.  
Some Vassals, with their Lords, themselves array,  
Others their Lords by fight disobey.  
No State or Birth their due distinction find,  
Whilst mean and bad then joined their worst design.  
The Swain his tilt neglected in despair  
Of what his Globe might yield another year,  
Judging that Camps would better him sustain,  
Then his disordered toil for future Grain:  
No Aid whate'er but did reception find;  
Wars Darling, Force, is best with Number joined.  
Essex from London marched with highest State,  
When thro●… 〈◊〉 ●…s did his Soul clate,  
By th'Houses man●…ent, and Crowds designed,  
To heighten Fervour in his Poplar Mind.  
Who with their Sanguine Zeal had less conspired,  
Had not Fame's Tinder so his Temper fired.  
By which Impulse, or from the Fate of things,  
That Rugged Souls to proner Violence brings:  
He soon his Army full completed Led  
Near to Campagnes in which the King's was spread.  
Not doubting but his numerous Warlike Force,  
So well accoutred by the Houses Purse,  
Would soon the King's best form Powers defeat,  
When they should boldest his in Battle meet.  
And that his Cause no smooth pretext should lose,  
Which for its Veil the Senate's Votes had chose.  
Unto the King a specious Errand sends,  
That to his Sovereign safety recommends:  
By wishing he'd from Perils soon withdraw,  
Since no respect can flying Bullets awe:  
Or Swords promiscuoully in Battles kill,  
And may, amongst Lower Blood the Highest spill.  
So plausible would men their Figures take,  
If words, for their Offence, can Varnish make.  
The King, whose even Greatness did compose  
His Person to the wonder of his Foes,  
Thus to the Earl's delusive Message says;  
Tell the bold man who for Inglorious praise  
Does near Embattled to our sight appear;  
And dares by Arms to bid his Sovereign fear.  
That Phoebus may as soon decline his Light,  
When Cloudy Meteors would obstruct his sight,  
As witness my Just Glory I disown,  
Or Deeds my Sceptre highest can renown,  
Tho' with my personal Sufferings should combine  
The worst that Armed Subjects shall design.  
The King here ends: And next Great Lindsey spoke,  
Since Me, Great Sir, your General you make,  
Suffer that I unto this Earl commit  
What may my Honour's Station well besit.  
He is a Captain and I'd have him know  
My Prowess shall him equalled that way show:  
But if before the fury of this day,  
He'll singly Combat me a Soldiers way.  
Our Persons shall our battle's Signal be,  
As we begin to fight for Victory.  
This Errand thus returned; Essex declined  
All other Fight then with his Army joined.   

Who judged that'twas a much securer course  
To wave then meet Brave Lindsey's single force.  
The King from Edge-Hill's top, like Jove on high,  
When Mortals once against Heaven Encamped did lie  
Undaunted saw the near Campagne disclose  
Power that durst him divine on Earth oppose.  
And as a Royal Chief did next descend  
Strictly to view if orderly extend  
His Battle, Wings, of Infantry and Horse;  
Inspecting next if their Souls vigorous force  
Stood on their Looks, and how each Persons Face  
Spoke daring Conduct in his Martial place.  
Amongst these, as Valour's Ornament, he saw  
Best Peers and Gentry Glistering Swords to draw.  
Not readier to Command then to Obey,  
Where Volunteers they ranked themselves that day.  
Mingled with these he more Intent beheld  
Some by him least obliged or favoured hrld,  
T'enlarge his Royal Files did there resort,  
Without expected Gift or Place from Court.  
Whilst others by his Royal Bounty raised  
To Honour, Wealth, ne'er in their' Scutcheons blazed;  
Ingratefully from his Just Cause withdrew,  
Or against him did worst Renegadoes show.  
Which frontless guilt when well the King compared  
With such, full-souled with Duty, him revered;  
Their Loyalty unpampered by his Gifts,  
Whilst Falshood had in others gainful shifts.  
How might this Prince hope Heaven his Crown won'd right,  
Since Conscience thus for him won hearts to sight?  
When Factions did the Houses Votes maintain,  
Blended with various Interests and Gain.  
Some Bankrupt Commons and of Gentry such  
Who safe Estates and Lives would others grudge:  
And purposely Commotions did Create,  
To share Large Glean by their Nation's Fate:  
Which gave the King occasion to deplore,  
Where his Arms lost they lessened Virtues Store;  
And could but low retaliation find,  
If Blood they vanquished mean or unresined.  
Essex, whose Talon was in words not great,  
Or like such Chiefs whose Oratory's heat  
The fervour of their Militants could raise,  
And by apt Speech and Conduct mingle praise:  
Yet Lest his Soul too heavy seemed to fill  
His Organs, or unbent his Armed Will,  
He boldly owned to Heaven, a specious way,  
His Lawless Cause as he pres●…'d to pray  
With Canting Teach●…, who could Prayers devise  
And Texts expound Rebellion to disguise:  
Besitting well the Factions of those Times,  
And men who fought and begged success for Crimes.  
Thus, to his Name's reproach, his Files he Led  
In Keinton-Field against his Nation's Head:  
Where soon both Armies furiously Engage,  
That English might kill English on that Stage.  
When first from loudest Canons Bullets slew  
And Ranks of Men at remote distance slew.  
Some viewed their severed Limbs ere they could die  
In parts by Death's severest Cruelty.  
Others were slain outright by one huge blow,  
And happy whom such Guns had killed so:  
Or were by stunning Shot bereaved of breath,  
As Canons, without wound, enforced their death.  
Some Horse throw Riders wanting Limbs to tread,  
Others by Bullets torn in halfs lay dead.  
Thus with Man's Fate the servile Beast complies,  
And in Wars method most alike him dies.  
This Thundering Prologue ceased, the Scene did fill  
With thicker Mischiefs, tho' less Engines kill.  
Which Musket's close opposing Peals convey,  
Numerous as Atoms when the burning day  
Provokes their intermingled globulous flight,  
And by their adverse motions seem to sight.  
Which Slaughter past another did ensue,  
That gives some death who had scaped Powders blow.  
And did as dismal Prospects soon expose,  
As these fierce Legions closer fought their Foes.  
Foot against Foot their brandished Pikes employ,  
And with bold Stands no less the Horse annoy.  
Such soon fall as would most daring live,  
In so short time Fame's Stage can Honour give.  
But now as Fortune would the King assist,  
Or teach his daring Foes less to resist:  
His Cavalry with furious drift had chased  
Th'enemies' Horse on their Right-Wing were placed.  
Whilst vanquished through this spacious Field they fly,  
Nor thought to stop howe'er by flight they die.  
So strangely fear produced Ignoble haste,  
Tho' Fate they proved o'ertook their Lives too fast.  
Great Rupert who the Royal Cavalry Led,  
And had too far pursued Brigades that fled,  
Remembered then the Friends he left behind,  
And how distressed perhaps he them should find.  
With whom the King might highest dangers share,  
Until relieved by his Valiant Care.  
Thus he presaged, and in his Mighty Mind,  
As much his boundless Valour than repined;  
That had surpassed occasions Limits so,  
As Fortune's Time did from him backward go.  
Whose Minutes slipped she proudly does disdain  
The selfsame favours to bestow again.  
Whilst in that hasty hour the Thirst of Spoils  
Too soon had mingled with his Soldiers Toils.  
Some seizing Baggage of the op'lent slain,  
When others vaster Booty strove to gain.  
Their Fatal Profit, as too early they  
Would have the Gleaning of the Field that day.  
Which by this Prince discerned, with resolute Brow  
And highest Indignation bids them throw  
To earth mean Pillage, and with boldest Might  
Return with him unbroken Ranks to sight.  
Being rallied thus, like Billows on the Main  
That with more furious Tides revolve again,  
He forced his passage back through Armed Foes,  
And Horse and Man Impetuously overthrows.  
His Soul Impatient to accomplish more  
Than he had left behind undone before.  
Yet could not his Attempts, though praised by Fame,  
Prevent the froward Cast of Fortune's Game;  
When the Essexians with great Valour fought,  
And the King's Battle unto hardship brought.  
Whose Valiant Infa●…ry tho' o'repowred with force,  
At once Encountered t●… both Foot and Horse.  
Whence many various sad effects ensued,  
As here Death had her T●…k Scene pursued.  
The hardy Pikemen that sometime withstood  
The strenuous Charge of Horse with loss of Blood:  
Amongst Broken Foot, defended least by flight,  
In much disorder was enforced to fight.  
Their Front compelled to mingle with the Rear,  
And many killed confusedly sighting there.  
Some trod to death by Horse in furious haste,  
Others by Cruel Leisure fell more fast.  
Too many can't resist, resist would fain,  
So much their Valour of their Fate did gain.  
Such Generous Chiefs as could no longer guide  
Their bravest Conduct against the prevailing side,  
With their distressed Militants now yield  
To fall the Glory of this Bloody Field.  
Where Fortune dreadful revolutions wrought,  
As if the Destinies her Aid had sought.  
When Valiant Bands, which like a Sacred fence  
Had stood the Royal Standards stout defence,  
Disordered were, yet then disdained to fly;  
Or cease to fight, but as they'd fight die.  
Belford who res'lutely his Squadrons Led  
To force their room by laying Files first dead,  
With Steps well died in Blood a passage made  
Where the King's Standard's Glory was displayed.  
Which matchiess Trophy he aimed to surprise  
As his bold Present to the Houses eyes.  
Whilst Loyal 
* Sir Edmund Varney, Standard-Bearer to King Charles though First.  Varney, who with Valiant Trust  
That highest Ensign's safety hoped to boast;  
As he with signal Prowess sometime stood  
Unconquered tho' expending Streams of Blood,  
And as Life had thus bravely from him fled,  
The Standard fast supported held when dead.  
But this Knight's fall, tho' in desert alone  
Enough to save that Emblem of the Throne,  
Could not without conjoined Achievements bring,  
Sufficient rescue to their 
a The King being Represented in his Standard with his Sword Drawn.  Figured King.  
Which Glory valiant 
b Sir John Smith.  Smith with others gained,  
And to retire the Enemy constrained.  
A Prowess with their Fame must still survive,  
Whilst deeds in Keinton-field with Story live.  
What Epithets in Verse can aptly raise,  
Trophies, that may perpetuate their praise.  
Or History that gives Truth such a Test,  
As Famous deeds are thence recorded best.  
Too Numerous for my Measures to preserve,  
Or what my Muse may doubt she can't deserve.  
The day just spent (and well it happened so  
When both sides still to fight resolved did show)  
As if heavens Conduct auxiously took care,  
How Men against their wills should Mankind spare.  
And thus Night severed both these mighty Powers,  
So fiercely was Employed that days sad hours.  
Night, in which Terrors most accost man's thought,  
And shapes bad deeds in worse forms then wrought;  
What apprehensions might her hours instill,  
On such, whose latest Gild had been to kill.  
Nor did the rising day to them appear,  
Less dismal to their Conscious Crimes or fear.  
The Sun beheld far more than usual red,  
If not his blush when viewed the blood here shed.  
As sometimes Heaven does prodigies bestow,  
To Frighten Mortals for Misdeeds below.  
And might then op'rate whilst with like decree,  
Both Armies quit the Field, yet neither flee.  
Essex to Warwick does his Forces guide,  
Enough exulting that his Stubborn side  
The King's had sought, and unsuppressed could own,  
Such spoils of Dead and Living his were known.  
And what Fate most peculiarly did prize,  
Brave Lindsey (after made his Prisoner) dies.  
Lindsey, whose great Example valour taught,  
In perils bold, yet these not heedless sought;  
A Captain aptly in a Hero Joined,  
As is for Honour's Masterpiece designed.  
And in that days fierce Harrass like a Chief  
Of Infantry, On Foot led Foot's relief;  
Till overpowered, and weakened much by wound,  
His foes him seized, near dead upon the ground.  
Completed thus his Memory does Claim  
A lasting mention from the Tongue of Fame.  
The King his Camp to Oxford next removed,  
Where his Commands were full obeyed and loved.  
As Arts to ●mpire must obsequions be,  
And Measure thence their best Felicity.  
The Court and Camp no sooner settled here,  
〈◊〉 fresh Emergencies of War appear.  
〈◊〉, on which the King did most reflect,  
As a wide source whence slowed the sighting Sect:  
That for the Houses s●…cest did oppose:  
To check which heat he did this season choose.  
Besides he judged that in that Mighty Town  
Were many Subjects highly did disown  
The Interest, which the Factious managed there,  
And might abate if his Force nearer were.  
But London's Temper would not then Endure  
To cease Rebellion by his force or Cure.  
T'approach that Town to Bransord he arrives,  
Where Silver Thames its useful Current guides:  
And like Vicissitude in Humane things,  
An Intercourse of Ebb and Flowing brings.  
But here he finds his March obstructed so,  
That he must sight or else not forward go.  
The Streets and Avennues with Men beset,  
Who here (surviving Keinton-field) had met;  
And with like resolution durst defy,  
The source Conducted by armed Majesty.  
Hollis' Regiment being first at hand,  
Was led to combat by his bold Command.  
Soon were the Streets with ghastly slaughters filled:  
Some Houses Ransacked, and their owners killed;  
The Town obscured from sight by smoke and fire,  
As if with Lives designed to expire.  
The King's stout foot that would not yield to be,  
Repulsed by dangers worst Extremity:  
Had the opposing Infantry Compelled,  
To quit the Post which they so dauntless held.  
And full of Resolution did proceed,  
To give their Vigorous force more Gallant speed.  
Until observed that London Powers were brought,  
To aid the Squadrons that already fought,  
Then which; Not Mighty Seaven-hilled Rome had shown,  
Legions more splendid Armed, and expert known;  
Tho' their unhappy Gild that bloody time,  
To be Defenders of their senate's Crime.  
These Essex heads in hopes next to repair,  
His Parties loss, so much the Zealous care  
Of many smart and Comely City Dames,  
Who to his Strenuous Cause applied their Flames:  
And might his Manhood else not much regard,  
As doubting he too long lived Nature's Ward.  
The King who did in this Conjuncture know  
Timely the Reinforcements of the Foe,  
Consults such Chiefs in Conduct most excelled,  
And round his Person no less great beheld;  
Then famous Hero's did of old appear,  
When Armed in Fields they King's Advisers were.  
And as Fame does such high concernments blaze,  
Her Warlike records must these Worthies praise:  
Who did their subtle Enemies deseat,  
And in despite of more as bold retreat.  
Whilst with nine Ensigns won, and other Spoils,  
The Royal Army then renowned their Toils.  
Tho' Kings by Martial Glory least obtain,  
When by their Subject's loss they Trophies gain.  
Or so enforced to Vindicate their Right,  
As their just Arms must their delinquents sight.  
Who as their Swords in battle Prince's daro,  
From dread of Justice Mercy next despair.  
Nor Law Infringed more Resolute defy,  
Then Conscience, the Soul's inward Majesty.  
Now had the Sun his Autumn Glory spent,  
When longer hours of Cold to Night were lent.  
And fields did in their fading Green appear,  
The Change of Livery Nature gives the year.  
Which season not admitting longer stay,  
Abroad for Armed, both sides withdrew their way.  
So Bees in Clusters from fierce Battles Come,  
By cold enforced unto their waxen Home:  
Until refreshed by ease and warmer Air,  
Their busy files to sight again prepare.  
Essex near London does his Quarters spread,  
Where by the Houses Votes they're warmly said.  
And nothing's wanted might his loss Recruit,  
At Keinton-Field, or Bransord's later Rout.  
Yet Neither Boasted strength, or joys best Guise,  
Could tears repel from the Lamenting Eyes  
That grieved for dear Relations wanted were,  
As in Death's Muster read their Numbers are.  
Tho' popular Conducts such Accounts most hide,  
Lest People thence their dangers less abide.  
Or from the sum of Lives profusely lost,  
Perceive how dear such aid themselves must Cost.  
The Royal force to Oxford next returned,  
Where Joys were high and some disasters mourned.  
As with Auspicious deeds of War appear,  
Bays that must needs some sanguine Tincture bear.  
Whilst here the Court, that had with spendour fixed,  
Shined as with fading Glories Intermixed.  
Where Noble Matrons feared what Threads of Life  
Fate would allow their Consorts in this Strife.  
No less did Beauties (feign would Love espouse)  
Dread in their Lovers more than Life to lose.  
Which high Asllictions Civil War does find  
To throw on best repose of Humane Kind.  
Yet now as Fame her Festival would raise,  
For Celebration unto future days:  
Her Record swift she sends on Rum'rous Wing,  
As her high Present to be given the King:  
By which from his Illustrious Queen was known  
Her Person safe, and soon would meet his own;  
Tho' Neptune more her Greatness to display,  
Allowed his boldest Seas t'opose her way.  
Which did the far admiring world inform;  
How she, Our Heroine, vanquished Waves and Storm.  
Great Maro so did Famed Aeneas' blaze,  
His Glory heightened on the highest Seas.  
The King whose Love was servant to his Queen,  
By whom he, to her Fame, obliged had been,  
As she his Cause did to her peril aid:  
To meet her Person no delay he made.  
Attended by the Eminent of his Court,  
Fully completed in their Noblest sort.  
Beside applauded Beauties that did wait  
On this so high Concern of Love and State.  
That Poets thence may future Copies take,  
When they'd Diana's Chorus brightest speak.  
Next unto these their Hero's did attend,  
Whom ●ame for Warlike Deeds could best commend.  
Edge-Hill, so near to Keinton-Field adjoined,  
Was then the Sphere where all these Lustres shined.  
Tho' Mortals that would bad Presages make  
From accidental Causes or Mistake,  
Might wonder that this Scene should here display,  
Where Time must still Enrol a Bloody day:  
As if that Heaven by Circumstantial things  
Foretold Disasters, which the Future brings.  
The Queen whose Mien and Looks was Great beheld,  
And in her Persons figure too excelled.  
More Comely did to distant eyes appear  
Then fullest Moon when shining in her Sphere.  
As here the King his Consort did behold,  
High Wonder did a while his words withhold.  
To show her then Attractions pierced him more  
Than all the Darts that she had beamed before:  
Which high surprise did on his Soul impose  
A Sense, above what Speech could soon disclose:  
Until his Thoughts found strength enough to tell  
How far she did Supremest praise excel:  
And to what Peril she her Life resigned,  
To be more Great to his Assistance joined.  
To which the Queen with humble Greatness said,  
What Earthly Glory higher is obeyed,  
Or Power of Love, if lasting Time thence know  
That I your Virtue no less loved than you.  
A Greatness which my Life too cheap had cost,  
If I had for your sake in Storms been lost.  
When late th'assaulting Billows of the Main  
Opposed my safe return to you again.  
And Winds so highly Combated in Course,  
As if to Seas in Skies my Wreck they'd force.  
Tho' Love then gave me such Heroic power,  
That most your Loss in Me, I feared that hour:  
Till Heaven whose Sceptre Boundless Floods obey,  
Through their deep dangers me did safe convey:  
With Valiant Numbers fresh esteem have won  
In distant Climes; may that be far outdone  
As they your Aid and Safety do assist,  
How stubborn ere your Foes shall dare resist.  
And should these not Success for you obtain,  
Worse Seas I'd venture more Recruits to gain.  
Tho' Merit seems too narrow for my Breast,  
Who in your Love am more entirely blest.  
And if King's Beds throughout the World were seen,  
Yours would contain the most obliged Queen.  
What Admirations might this Dialogue bring,  
Or desert heighten in this Queen and King.  
Whilst throngs in Counties did applauding wait  
On their Great Persons, till with Royal State  
At Famous Oxford Gloriously arriv●d;  
And which of Cities stands most beautified  
By Stately Colleges, and Learning known,  
And then the Centre of the Camp and Throne.  
When for the welcome of the King and Queen,  
This City was more great and splendid seen,  
Then former time could her renown declare,  
Or highest Orb of Science in her Sphere.  
And as she then did Celebrate her Joys,  
The Camp its mighty Engines too employs;  
Which as they figure best loud Tongues of Fame,  
To Regions far applauses did proclaim.  
And next best Trumpets, (Like to such of old  
By Mars held Sacred when their Charms more bold  
The Armed Inflamed, or for the Conquered Field  
Their loudest Music did to Triumphs yield)  
Had ears remote delighted with their sound,  
And Echoes that no voice before had found.  
And what did eyes as far removed employ  
T'Admire the Skill was here and signs of Joy:  
The Famous Engineer had made by Art  
Bodies that acted beyond Nature's part:  
When Fireworks did in varied Forms arise;  
Some like to Meteors blazing in the Skies:  
Others like fiery Bullets seemed too ●ly,  
Or shot Granades Leaguered Towns do ply.  
Which being passed, the men whose active Might  
In Running, Wrestling, Shooting, took delight:  
Or durst by hardy Arms for Prizes play,  
In Imitation of Rome's Ancient way;  
Had places proper unto them assigned,  
Where Chiefs and Hero's as Spectators Joined.  
And what sublimest does man's thought extend,  
The Learned as Emulators did contend  
How their Address they should profoundest make;  
Or in as many Tongues refin'dly speak  
As once th'Apostles did, tho' Scriptures tell  
The Spirit on them for that purpose fell.  
Nor did the Eloquence of Schools outdo  
The Gloss which Preachers did on praise bestow.  
Tho' Holy Writ no Person did convey  
That like this King so well could Love and Pray.  
As full his Consort's Soul they had Admired,  
If for Rome's sake they had been then Inspired.  
Next these some Poets gladly did dispense,  
In this high Juncture, their sublimest Sense.  
With what might most their Sovereign's Fame commend  
Whose Merit long on Feet of Verse should stand.  
Tho' of all Science, lest the Muse's date  
Concessions that, from Court, their value rate.  
In which high Orb few Gaudy things admit  
Their smallest deference unto better Wit.  
A vain neglect most Pens dare boldly slight,  
That can of Courts and Men resin'dly write.  
Which Glory then the Muses chiefly sought,  
As that Kings Style our Tongue had smoothness taught▪  
Whose Book so matchless does his figure raise,  
As his Soul perfects there Immortal praise;  
And against his Foes such Eloquence does spread,  
That they will ever thence be conquered read.  
Well might Wise Poets him to Fame commend,  
Whose Wit and Virtue Divine Glory blend.  
These Celebrations past, the King and Queen  
No less Conspicuous in their Courts were seen.  
Where busy Joys and Whispers filled the Ear:  
If Joy, could Joy be called and War so near;  
Whose hours so roughly to their Periods flow,  
That Heaven does them by Angry Stars foreshow.    

The THIRD BOOK.  
The Argument.  

The Wretched State of England in the Year  
Of Forty Three, the Poet's Pencil draws.  
The King abused by false Intelligence,  
(The Corrupt Minions oft intriguing Art)  
The Author's Numbers in a borrowed Name  
Full represent, with Dornland's figure shown,  
And for his Loyal praise, by Power of Verse,  
To after Story raised, with how occurred  
The Councils, Stratagems, and deeds of Arms.   

THe year recovered had its usual Spring,  
When blooming hours Wars fatal growth did Bring,  
And Echoes did with Timorous Voice resound  
The dreadful noise of Armed Troops around:  
As by them spacious Rendezvous were filled,  
Wars Schools, where Men in killing most excelled;  
Yet would th'effect of discipline that deem,  
That War might have from wicked Art Esteem.  
Essex who had some time at London spent,  
Enough regretted, as the Houses Meant.  
His March by all their vigorous Votes to haste,  
That he no time of Action than should waste.  
Or, from deliberate thought, dispose his mind,  
Less Violent than their rigid Votes designed.  
Which he their Army's Head might so diffuse,  
As in that Body Nerves might vigour lose.  
The danger most they Feared by his delay,  
And next him to confirm the smoothest way:  
Their popular Charms, which most his soul did fit,  
They, Siren-like, had Modelled by their Wit.  
For which Address a Person they select;  
Who thus begins, If our Votes can effect  
Praises sufficient to complete your worth,  
Or deeds to come by Valour you'll bring forth:  
Know Great and Honoured Earl, the Houses will,  
By due Obsequiousness admire you still.  
Nor shall they your applause less valued deem,  
Then worthy of the Height of their esteem.  
Tho' Envy mourn, or talk herself then dumb,  
To see our Crowds to you with Laurel come.  
You, more than Chief, did first espouse our Cause,  
When Th●… by our displeased King and Laws.  
Your Father did to popular deeds add Grace,  
Tho' Termed by some the headstrong of his Race.  
Which Obloquy, or Court design might blaze,  
When dreading most the Compass of his praise.  
Contemn all Motives would your conduct stay,  
The People's 〈◊〉 oft Cools by small delay.  
The ●arl who little did applaud the Sense  
Of soothing words, the dress of Eloquence:  
Or had for quick reply no ready brain;  
Little returned unto this speech again.  
Like one, that would be understood to be  
Their Creature by his prone Credulity.  
And next unto his Army did repair,  
Where shouts like sudden winds flew through the Air.  
From which applauses, and a soul well filled  
With such designs the Houses had instilled,  
Boldly resolved, he does towards Redding guide  
His Armies March; a Town the Royal side  
Had strengthened well, and Conduct duly placed,  
That had with famous trust in War been graced.  
Redding a Borough of a large extent,  
Yet greater far in the Emolument.  
Commodious Thames does plenteously convey,  
And opulent Freights from London stem their way.  
Besides a Pass, that might no less withstand  
A far Commerce with England's East by Land.  
Which prejudice the Houses hoped to Cease,  
By soon Compelling by their Power that place.  
But e'er this Town's vast Danger we rehearse,  
Some things at Oxford first require our Verse.  
Which for their strangeness darkly Storied are,  
Or left for heedful Poets to declare;  
Whose thoughts do Records most remote sublime,  
And perfect Deeds unfinished left by Time.  
Poets are Authors, when they Actions tell,  
That suit with Truth, or it resemble well.  
And even the real Deeds I here pursue,  
Seem no less strange, then if allowed untrue.  
Which did so vild from these Commotions spring,  
That all their Changes did still worse bring.  
The King perplexed, how things might further tend,  
(As Mediums bad with like effects do end)  
His Subjects ruined by a wretched War;  
Some near him spoiled, whilst some from Countries far  
Quit their Abodes, whence they were forced to fly  
As Objects of their Nation's Misery.  
The Generous Born of their Estates bereft,  
And unto Want and Wars wild Ruins left:  
Who thus despoiled by men of Vulgar Race,  
That strove to level all above their place,  
Were forced by Arms to vindicate their Right,  
And, to their loss the Low of Mankind fight.  
Whilst none by suffering more renowned was known  
Then Valiant 
* A Name here used by Poetical Licence to describe in his Character the Sufferings of many Eminent Persons in behalf of the Crown.  Dornland, in whose figure shown  
The Muse's Pencil Story may direct,  
How there his Fame best Copied should be Left.  
Who having dangers Past; and sharp distress,  
His worthy Life, and duty did address.  
And had affairs of that Importance brought,  
As did require his Sovereign's Ear and Thought,  
And witnessed that his future deeds should be  
No Less renowned for dauntless Loyalty.  
Whilst from delays, and slights of Court he found  
Some (Tho' too near the King) in heart unsound.  
Who could with flattering Mene their Courtships pay  
For Treacherous ends, and Gain, the subtlest way.  
Whence too Indulgent Princes often find  
Their Favours with their Fate too nearly Joined.  
This Generous sufferer full perplexed that he  
Could not yet meet sit Opportunity,  
By which he to his Sovereign might convey  
Things that he found himself might safest say.  
At Last 
* A borrowed Denomination to avoid what otherwise in his Character might reflect on the Honour of any known Name or Family.  Sydesmond passing by him saw,  
To him he steps, and said, ere you withdraw  
Acquaint the King, his Loyal Subject here  
Waits to Impart what's fit for him to hear.  
Sydesmond with a Glaring Parasites Look  
Surveying first the Man, to him thus spoke.  
Alas! mean friend, for thou in clothes seem'st poor,  
And for thy wants perhaps wouldst Coin Implore.  
Couldst thou no better furnished now appear;  
And hope, for Cause of thine the Courtiers ear.  
We favours do to Sprucer Men convey,  
And who no Less us quaintly give then pray.  
Perhaps thy person Merit would Import,  
Merit, a Drugg that slowly vents at Court.  
The King's Cause glories in their Sufferings most  
Who'reare Poor and Loyal at their proper Cost.  
If thou art So, in time the King may know  
How many kind words he to thee does owe.  
And how thou dar'st thy person too expose  
With any Monyless against his foes.  
When if well maimed perhaps I'll thee Commend  
Unto some Hospital thy days to end.  
Abodes, I grant, few varnished Shrines Destow  
That half-limed Hero's with their exploits show.  
Things which brave Souls will never there repine,  
That can their relics to their Crutch confine.  
Excuse my haste, I must on Men attend,  
Can frankly Give, or will their money lend.  
All ways are welcome Treasure may disburse  
To wanting Courts, or such as guide their Purse.  
Thy Name I should have asked, or let it be  
(With thy Address) hereafter known to Me.  
Dornland's the Name (false Minion) I do own,  
And wish you to your Prince, so just were known.  
Whose Royal Cause I never did despair,  
Or felt in Soul one mean relenting Care,  
When other Loyalties did make their Halt,  
Lest Ruin, like to mine, should them Assault.  
All this I quit and gladly offer more  
Than what my single Merit could explore.  
Things, that your ready favour might endear,  
Tho' you move nearest to your Sovereign's ear.  
Perhaps a Story aptly may unfold  
The means of gaining Loyal Friends and Gold.  
At which Sydesmond shifts his wayward look,  
And with a feigned Embrace to him thus spoke.  
Alas kind Gentleman! how soon amiss  
May man judge man in such a world as this?  
Tho' not unlike to thee one t'other day  
No less glad Tidings did by me convey.  
And know, (if thou hast Courts but slightly read)  
That even Best Kings are oft by profit led.  
Papers I guess thou hast, and wouldst present;  
Enough, the King shall soon know thy Intent.  
The Noble Dornland thus being lest alone;  
Employed his Leisure aptly to bemoan  
The sad effects, which Minions might prepare,  
As they give Passports to the Royal ear:  
And by their Fawning Avarice design  
How best their interests may their Purses line.  
A Paper reads, which next his Breast he wore,  
Some well known Poet written had before.  
And did black guilt of Parasists describe,  
And how to Pride and Sin allied their Tribe.  
Which his Emphatic Verse does thus relate;  
'Tis told (says he) ere Lucifer by Fate  
Was cast from Stars, or Heaven did him Intent  
Of all Internal Powers supremest Fiend.  
A Daughter than was his of Mighty Fame.  
Called Sycophama, if none her Misname.  
Sprung from his Beams, what could Serener look, took.  
That Stars, some tell, with her smooth Court were  
A Tongue so Glib might Tongue of Fame supplant,  
And for worst deeds, no Glozing words did want.  
Composed thus, and Garnished with a Dress,  
No Painter could by Drapery express,  
Or like to what Aurora best does wear,  
When welcomed Phoebus to his early Sphere.  
Which Flattering Beauty, being thus adorned  
(As if for Sins allurement then Suborned)  
With soothing Gestures to her Haughty Sire  
Did thus address: Since Jove and Fate Conspire  
That shining Seats no longer now must be  
The Wide Extent of your Sovereignty.  
Tho' to Celestial Records 'twas unknown  
That any Sublime Power could Star dethrone.  
But grant that Heaven's decree does you remove  
●… the Illustrious Sphere is yours above.  
●… Command that Lower you descend  
●… Unfathomed Sea, or Earth extend:  
●… you o'er Churlish Fiends, and Ghost must Reign,  
●… win even them t'obey without their Chain.  
And if your Rule repute would varnished raise,  
Sin shall from me receive the smoothest praise.  
Me I am sure you will not leave behind,  
So well my Arts may to your Throne be joined.  
This Court addressed unto her Stately Sire,  
She fawning knelt to perfect her desire.  
To which her Haughty Father, thus replied,  
Hard 'twere smooth Daughter, if to you denied  
What Greatness by my Sceptre may be given,  
Tho' that must fall beneath my Orb in Heaven;  
Where next my shining Pomp I joyed to see  
The taking Mien and Gestures formed by thee.  
A Greatness Angry Jove to me denies,  
Lest even in Hell thy Acquaint Hypocrisies  
Should those quick Spirits heighten to be worse  
Than does consist with Heavens precedent Curse.  
Tho' for thy Glory Highest Powers do grant,  
That thou no Greatness shalt below ere want.  
Courts there thou'lt find most gladly thee will own,  
And make their Arts, in thine more taking known.  
And should none Earth their Paradise now call,  
Thou't least, of any there, repine thy fall.  
This said, he downward fell with confused haste,  
No Thought did ever Time surprise so fast.  
Tho' some suppose that 'twas no more then when  
A Star does seem to fall to sight of Men.  
His Daughter left, his Counsel she obeys,  
And swiftly unto Earth herself conveys.  
Kingdoms and States were soon made her abode  
(So prone Sin finds out the Largest Road.)  
Where more her Artful Flatteries to disperfe,  
She leaves her Fame to future Prose, and Verse.  
The Generous Dornland having pondered well  
The useful Sense, which wiser Poets tell,  
When they by choicest Allegories teach  
How man's best Morals Vileness should Impeach.  
Commits this Poet's Verse to further thought,  
With what Instructions might from it be sought.  
Grieved, that he did so long his Sovereign wait.  
ere told what did import his Royal State.  
Which apprehension soon did lessen here,  
As he beheld the King in Person near.  
Whom by his Speech he humbly thus does move:  
Since you, Just Prince, oblige no less the Love  
Of Loyal Minds, than what their Souls should dare,  
When utmost Perils would Impress their fear.  
Howe're's the plight in which I'm now beheld;  
From Friends, Lands, Houses, Impiously compelled  
My Life unto a Cruel end Designed  
●y that strong Rage against your Powers combined.  
Which Fury, tho'it late did me surround,  
When Guards and Scouts were my Pursuers found:  
Whom as I flew through uncouth Tracts and Woods,  
And swimming (more than weary) dangerous Floods;  
Some Star's compassion me did hither guide  
To serve your Cause, and to express besides  
Things which my Duty would to you impart,  
And full assure the Conduct of my Heart.  
The King took thought awhile ere he replied,  
(Sydesmond having whispered him aside)  
And next to Dornland turning, thus did speak:  
What-e're's the Figure thou wouldst seem to make,  
Think not that 'tis unto thy King unknown  
How vilely men for ends have falsehoods shwon.  
And have sometimes deceived our Royal Ear,  
As one can witness that attends Us here.  
Proof I expect of what thou wouldst express,  
And if thy Flight's from London as I guess,  
Supplies from thence I secretly expect:  
'Twas told thy Errand might the like effect.  
Howe'er proceed, that I may surely know  
Whether thy Merit be mistake or no.  
Tho'Souls of Kings (next Heaven) there's nothing can  
So high oblige as well-deserving Man.  
Since, Mighty Sir, you do admit that I  
Attest before you my Integrity.  
Which (without Blush) I wish as much to some  
That to your favours hold the nearest room.  
Alas, I fear you are too far betrayed  
By such as should your Royal Counsels aid.  
And with sincerest Faith preserve untold,  
What Souls corruptly guided sell for Gold.  
Your Secret Counsels by the soothe found  
Of Men unto your safety most unsound.  
Friends thus deterred would else profusely show  
Their Coin and Persons offered unto you.  
With whatsoever your Cause might best supply,  
If fight so, they unbetrayed may die.  
Nor shall Lights Orb one days bright Measure run,  
Till in that revolution deeds be known.  
That most perniciously themselvoes display,  
And show what Serpents move too near your way,  
Towards Redding, now does March a mighty so●de,  
I saw Roads thickly ●ill'd with Foot and Horse.  
Whence Clouds of Dust so strove to darken sight,  
As if they next would smother air and Light.  
Essex their Chief amongst them too I saw,  
His Looks confused, as if some thoughtful awe  
Hung on his Soul, or that he did devise  
How he might soon that eminent Town Surprise.  
Which Lest my Sov●…, should not timely know,  
What I have passed, I willing un dergo:  
Nor shall your Cause Assistance want from me,  
What ever's my Cross or Future destiny.  
More he had said, but that some sudden thought  
Too deeply on his Soul Impression wrought;  
Of what had been predicted for his Fate,  
And might too nearly to his King's relate.  
Which Gracious Prince did Dornland further Grace.  
Beholding strictly his firm Mene and Face.  
And next thus speaks, excuse thou didst not sinned  
More quick remembrance from our Royal Mind.  
Tho' better then by sight thouart known to Me,  
So well thy Merit, and thy Fame agree.  
Thou didst before, Intelligence Convey,  
Which gives thy story Credit too this day.  
Relief for Redding I'll command in time,  
Tho' some in Trust, cannot discharge their Crime;  
Who by Improper Correspondence sail,  
Or would by faithless ends themselves avail.  
From which this useful observation springs;  
Few, Earth affords, Heaven duly serve, or Kings.  
Sydesmond, let it be thy Task to show,  
By what we give, how more to him we owe.  
The King withdraws, whilst false Sydesmond stays;  
His eyes fresh Garnished by their fawning rays,  
Like Glozing Parasites, some Courts have known,  
When to their Princes Smiles they feign their own.  
Dornland discovered had this Minion well,  
(Whose Mene did partly what he Looked for tell.)  
Next lets him know, since 'tis his ●'hriving way  
To hold it meet Men should for favours pay:  
He'll something add to what he can expect,  
If but one Just Obligement he'll effect:  
Which was, that if his Covetous Soul could be  
Induced to value Future Honesty,  
And that his Royal Master's Cause sustain  
No Mischief from his Tongue, and Impious Gain:  
The Gift the King to Dornland lately gave,  
He now (to bribe thee honest) bids thee have.  
Which said, this Generous sufferer next departs;  
Enough observed by him some Courtly Arts:  
With what neglects endured and cold delay,  
men's expectations their attendance pay:  
Whilst busy rumour soon his Name had spread,  
And how endangered he from London fled,  
Escaping perils of a various Form,  
Like some stout snip that boldly stems a Storm.  
Besides the fast assurance he did bring  
Of being a brave Assistant to his King:  
Soon won the Most Heroic in those days,  
To serve his person and advance his praise.  
Who next unto the Royal Camp repaired,  
Where high Caresses soon his worth declared;  
In which bold Station my Pen leaves him now,  
Till future deeds his value ampler show.  
This Age so strange a Curtain did undraw,  
And Scenes, of various wonders, thence had saw.  
That Hoary Time might (Novice-like) behold  
Such new Amazements as surpassed the old.  
And must (his future perspective disclosed)  
Confess ensuing hours for ever posed.  
Whence this Wars Story finds too narrow room  
For deeds that did so thick together come.  
Tho' wise Historians with less Care relate  
The small occurrences and Arts of Fate:  
Then Councils, Battles, and such mighty things  
Which Fame applauds in Hero's and in Kings:  
Permitting Time some lesser deeds to veil,  
Or cheaply leave 'em to their own Entail.  
Which method, if my Lines can here pursue;  
Selecting facts, and things as likely True:  
With such besides, that Nature would present,  
(Whose gloss on Story to the Muse is lent)  
Enough Parnassus is Implored by me,  
Or Time allowed Supremest dignity.  
Tho' nothing can effectually deplore  
What did ensue on this Wars Fatal Score:  
No wicked age before so dear did cost  
That Blood and Treasure had profusely lost.  
And what if well Employed, had Conquered more  
Than all Great England owned in France before;  
And forced the bold offensive French to be  
Confined unto their Just Capacity;  
Whilst now their prosperous Arms so daring spread,  
As France appears a universal dread.  
How many Countries seized and more in Claim  
By such dependencies, he's pleased to name.  
As if the World he'd by like parcels take  
〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Netherlands their ruin speak.  
An apprehension better understood  
When more composed our Mode of public good.  
Till when, 'tis left with Mysteries of State  
That with their Leisure best their Sense dilate.  
And now my Story closer to declare,  
Which might some space for this digression spare:  
(As usefully sometimes the eye is stayed  
When Prospects near it aptly are conveyed.)  
To Redding, next my Muse directs her Course,  
Which Town was compassed by the Houses Force.  
And if made theirs, would the Advantage bring  
Of straitening more the Quarters of the King.  
Which known Inducements, with applause of Fame,  
The Earl's slow Genius Jointly did inflame.  
A Man that popular Motions much endeared,  
Tho' for their Compass he too slowly Steered.  
And sitter seemed his Conduct to make strong,  
Then with their eager Flames to hold it long.  
As Furious Crowds the Man will most admire  
That kindles from his Soul the quickest Eire.  
Skippon a Leader by the Houses Chose,  
To shape and act Designs when ripe for Blows;  
And had in Belgic War repute obtained  
From Towns by bold Attacques or Sieges gained.  
Besides a powerful Talon in him lay  
T'Inflame his Party their own Canting way.  
Which Scripture Furies strongly did incite,  
For who adored Enthusiasms much could fight.  
Being thus composed, he Essex does present  
With Zeal Harrangued, instead of Compliment.  
Letting him know, that Heaven, by Mighty Love,  
Did his Stout Spirit for their Cause approve.  
A Cause that boundless Sanctity extends,  
And for which Holy Light within contends.  
Captain Messias sure the Houses Led  
When their Votes you for Gospel-Conduct sped:  
An Act the pious Souls of Saints espouse,  
And, like the Holy Tribes, Life fearless lose.  
You are their Moses, and but bid them sight,  
They'll outdo wonder by their Spiritual Might.  
Can Redding stop us, should Bulwarks be its Wall;  
Alas, like Rabbah, soon 'twill yield to fall.  
You lead as Trusty Israelites as they,  
Against that strong City, could both Fight and pray.  
Our Guns are Mounted, our Approaches sixth,  
Let prayer with these be timely intermixed.  
Next let our Shot the distant Regions stun,  
Or tell how Loud we fight till Redding's won.  
This Pious Leader, if reputed so,  
Did in those days for Major-Gen'ral go:  
And if men did his Genius rightly weigh,  
He could not bolder sight than he durst pray.  
Essex, who had this Zealot calmly heard,  
Tho' he for Modern Zeal but little cared,  
Or found much struggling in his Thoughts to know  
Whether his older Faith were best or no.  
Besides some Tinctures of Allegiance still  
Had intermixture with his Stubborn Will:  
Did his divided mind perplex'dly pose  
How to discern what thought could best propose.  
Tho' such who strictest have his Soul designed,  
To Moderation grant him most inclined.  
Whilst soon this War expended so much heat,  
As Calmer thoughts could not its rage abate.  
And shows how men taste Politics by Rote,  
That Mischiefs stir and next would Good promote  
And thus this Peer, who less his Cause admired  
Then popular Courtships to which he aspired:  
(Tho' seldom Crowds their fondness long allow,  
So near their Plaudits, their detractings go.)  
Did in this Juncture res'lutely intend,  
That Redding Siege should him to Fame commend,  
When he to Skippon, and some eager Chiefs,  
Thus did express, to gain their smooth beliefs:  
Whate'er the busy World of me can say  
Through cold mistake of my advised delay:  
Or that, no fever in my Veins I raise  
To vent hot Blood, or rashly sight for praise.  
Which Caution if some Tempers do despise,  
They'll learn from Foes to grant my Conduct Wise.  
Nor shall this Town long hope to be so bold  
As against our Power it's own defence to hold:  
Tho' for its succour Aids from Oxford come;  
Unless, through Trenches, they can force their room.  
Aston against us does this place Command,  
A Captain much approved I understand:  
And adds to our esteem and Warlike use,  
If against his Conduct we this Town reduce.  
Which said, his weighty Shot does Redding ply,  
Like force of Thunder bursting from the Sky.  
Walls, Houses, Roofs, their scattered ruins show,  
As what withstands the Canon's mighty blow:  
Whose monstrous Strength doth various ruin force,  
And like no other thing Kills out of Course;  
As it by confused deaths does lives Bereave  
Of Children, mothers, whom worst foes would save.  
So much beyond Man's Aim his brain designed,  
When wicked art did this huge murderer find.  
Great Redding thus distressed, quick rumour flew  
With noise of Guns whose sounds the danger show  
With what approaches made and more begun,  
That soon the Town might be by Essex won.  
Whence Subsequent Expresses swiftly bring  
More Fatal News unto the afflicted King.  
Letting him know, as there vast bullets flew  
That roofs had torn, and their hard ruins threw  
High, as the Sulphurous blast of Aetna bears  
Stones, that like Thunderbolts from Rocks it Tears;  
Which falling Low, might Men or Creatures Maim,  
As here bold Aston's harm was much the same.  
Who from a Tile, that by extravagant Chance  
A Shot had forced against his head to Glance,  
Received so deep a Wound upon that part;  
As doubted 'twas above a Cure from Art  
A strange disaster, and of more Import  
Because 'twas Aston's, by whose brave effort,  
And well proved conduct, Redding might have found  
Her Story, from his Valour, full Renoun'd.  
But Destiny had otherways designed  
Glory unto his End ensuing Joined:  
As Fatal Ireland did in Future show,  
And long as stands 
* Sir Arthur A●…on slain at the taking of Tredah by Oliver Cromwell, where all that bore Arms were put to the Sword.  Tredah his deeds 'twill Know.  
Fielding by Martial right did then succeed  
To hold the Town in wounded Aston's stead;  
A Chief by many held approved in War,  
Tho' for what Cause his Genius did appear  
At that time Clouded, has a dubious sense,  
Or darkly read from past Intelligence.  
Some tell, that he too soon occasion gave  
That Essex might the Town surrendered have.  
Although no power he wanted to maintain  
What his Opposers durst attempt to gain.  
Others, that he a Treaty wisely chose;  
Lest he was forced a strengthless place to lose,  
Which from the Circuit and the large extent,  
Might less Conspire with Warlike Management.  
Which Martial Sense if prevalent in him,  
Did much excuse where others would condemn.  
A further Search my Measures need not guide  
Of things which Story-Criticks best decide.    

The FOURTH BOOK.  
The Argument.  

Essex with high surprise unto the King  
Besiegeth Redding, Aston disabled by  
Acasual Shot, The place his Conduct wants.  
Mean while the Poet finds an Interval:  
The Love of lisle and Lucas to rehearse,  
Whose objects here denomination have  
In Beauteous Rosalin and Flavira's flames.  
The fight at Cawsham-bridge described, and how  
Fielding by Treaty did the Town surrender.   

THE strange surprisal which these Tidings gave  
The King at Oxford, next account must have.  
Who soon did then a Martial Counsel call  
To prevent Dangers Redding might befall.  
For which he Ruthen, Rupert, Lucas, Lyle,  
Chiefly selects, with others whose brave Toil  
Their deeds renowned, and from Emergents knew  
What did Import their Conducts most to do.  
Great Ruthen, whom the King had General made  
Of his Fierce Infantry (when Lyndsey paid  
His debt to Fame and Nature) tho' of Race  
Beneath his Predecessor's Noble place,  
Full of Experience and in Courage great,  
An union which best Captains does complete.  
To him, as order duly did require,  
The King thus speaks, to what may Fate aspire  
Whilst my Opposers Redding now surround,  
When Aston Lies disabled by a wound:  
And what my fuller Trouble does Increase,  
Fielding already Treats to yield the Place:  
The Cause, or Prudence, I'll not now dispute:  
Or what bad Men too near me might promote;  
Who not by False Intelligeance alone  
Perplex the Sense and Safety of my Throne,  
But in my Methods so themselves disguise  
As they Impead my being singly wise.  
Tho' ●is no season now to Count such deeds,  
Whilst Eminent Redding our Assistance needs:  
How Strong so ere that Garrison is Manned  
With such that dare their Enemies withstand:  
Did Feildings Soul their Valour not abate,  
As for the Towns Surrender he does Treat.  
When no Command of mine did him dispose  
To yield the place on offered Terms by Foes.  
Think timely now what aptest you'd advise,  
That to save Redding looks both great and wise.  
Ruthen, whose Education did Impress  
No Courtly Mean or words of Splendid dress;  
But rather as a Soldier roughly taught,  
Could act the Sense which sound Experience Brought.  
Unto the King, he then did thus reply,  
Much Circumspection in Attempts should lie.  
That Seiges would from Towns by force remove,  
Where men their Strengthened Stations first approve;  
With Lines, Redoubts, and Bulwarks strongly made,  
To Cut off all that shall such Posts Invade.  
And if experience best confirmed we prise,  
'Tis safe to fear the worst from Enemies.  
Nay rather some Improbables allow,  
Then slight the Conduct of an Armed Foe.  
From which Contempt, how often have I known  
Some Captains fail that else deserved Renown.  
Believe me Sir, that conducts chiefly wise  
Which hath most dread of Prudent enemies.  
A Skill grown old in Foreign Fields I sought,  
And saw where headstrong Valour Mischiefs brought;  
Whence torn and Shattered Armies did Lament  
The Blood which they so dismally had spent.  
Next him great Rupert speaks his Martial Sense,  
And Soul Inflamed with highest Conscience.  
Telling the King how much he was betrayed  
By some who near his Ear themselves conveyed.  
What else does this Surprising Leaguer show,  
By Essex guided before Redding now.  
'tis not because he slights your forces there,  
Or that his Soul does thence less slow appear:  
But his Incitement raised from some may own  
Neglect, or worse Crime within that Town.  
Small cause there's else to doubt opposers can  
The place obtain which your Powers fully Man.  
Yet this Conjuncture such debates ●ll suit,  
As stay relief from Nicely spun dispute.  
Better to trust some peril to a Day,  
Jest Redding Loss be charged on faint delay.  
Tho' Clouds of Force do now begird that Town,  
Which when removed on yours will six renown.  
Some days I hear to Fielding yet remain  
E'er his Cold Treaties will effect obtain.  
Perhaps within that space he hopes to find  
Royal Assistance from your Arms designed:  
In straits of War the best resolves I hold  
Are such as in Attempts appear most bold.  
Lucas and Lyle this Council soon approved,  
Whose Warlike Souls less dangers feared then Loved  
Strict in embracing deeds of brave Import,  
And from their Valour's friendship gained effort.  
None more Heroic in affections were,  
And like the Twins of Honour lived as dear.  
Which in our Course of Story we'll rehearse,  
With what their Fame, and end deserve from Verse  
The King (who like the Sun could Beams dilate  
Conspicuously Serene and calmly great)  
His quickening Rays, and looks diffused a space;  
And next their persons by apt speech did grace.  
Expressing his Obligements from above,  
That him befriended with their worth and Love.  
Besides the Gallant Levies that did own  
Much Valiant aid and duty to his Throne.  
Which soon could Numbers in each County spread,  
Tho' lately he scarce Chief or Soldier had.  
When forced his vast Metropolis to leave,  
And like a Common Man his person save.  
This from Unruly Faction did Commence,  
Which heightened more the Senates Inflamed Sense.  
Whilst there, and in Great London many were  
Who duly did their Prince both Love and fear.  
Until Compelled by fury to submit  
To others Vile disordered Rule, and Wit,  
From which harsh guilt No outward Comso●… Min  
But did to humane Sense, as soon decline.  
My Consort suffering in my Crowns distress,  
Not all my Children safe, or seen to Bless.  
My Subjects round me by divisions rend,  
Nothing entire, but my within Content.  
The Sceptre by Heaven's aid I'd chiefly rule,  
That Piety may strengthen most my Soul.  
If this desert in me did first lacite  
My Subject's prowess to Assist my right:  
When Treasure and all other Motives failed,  
That Sceptres in distress have most availed;  
My Soul's bright Banner will my Cause renown,  
Should Ensigns boldest Led not save my Crown.  
Let my Example well with yours conspire,  
That Vileness from our Camp may soon retire.  
With such Licentious Evils that Combine  
T'avert the good I beg of powers divine.  
Think not the better 'Cause will have Success  
From such Assistance Heaven disdains to bless.  
Believe your King, that Courage best prevails  
Which joined with inward virtue Foes assails.  
O, might my Force but thus Confirmed proceed,  
And with that Glory Aid for Redding Led.  
The King concluding thus; his chiefs admired  
The temperate thoughts within his breast Conspired;  
So Steadfast in worst Exigents of State,  
As showed his Greatness far Surpassed his Fate.  
Much had this Council heedfully expressed,  
Before agreed what seemed that Juncture best.  
Some, Nimble Fortune would allow most kind;  
When Quick resolves to bold attempts were Joined.  
This Mighty Caesar's high Atcheiuments tell,  
Whose fortune did in swift dispatch Excel,  
His Soul no Bays more blooming e'er did prize  
Then such with Bold and soon attempts did rise.  
And were now Redding his, the selfsame thing  
(Would be his Measure) here advised our King.  
Others that well celerity Approved,  
By different Methods their discussions moved.  
Who though allowing expeditious Fight,  
Debated much to State that Course aright;  
Besides disasters pondered oft befell  
Aggressors when strong Sieges they'd repel.  
Some did for Caution and delay dispute,  
Urging that Time advantage might promote:  
Whose hours in War should thriftily be spent,  
Lest Lives profusely lost they next repent.  
Nor could it to sound Captains be unknown,  
How Armies but in sight of Leaguers shown  
Had on their Foes such Terror oft Impressed,  
As they left Towns which were before distressed.  
And better we attempts should yet delay,  
Then add to Redding loss a worse day.  
So variously Wars Science does admit  
Fineness to Polish its destroying Wit.  
Whilst in such Stratagems Nice Reason lays;  
The Beast, resembles Man, that subtlest preys.  
Soon did th' effect of these debates appear  
In the Fierce Measures a● then Acted were,  
Much quickened by occasions hasty call,  
Lest the Beleaguered Town to Essex fall.  
The King's Commanders whose bold prowess stood  
Heightened by Native Glory of their Blood,  
And what their Warlike Ancestors had done  
In Public Exigents to gain renown:  
No sooner did their ready Flames receive  
Summons to March, but their Impressions gave  
Terror to all such Militants they led;  
And what did most a vigorous Influence spread:  
The King his Person to this March designed,  
And for their Grace his forward Conduct joined.  
But e'er my Muse such horrors does rehearse  
That must have room within her Martial Verse;  
Some Gentler passions represent their Claim,  
If Verse can give their Merit unto Fame:  
Or sing Courageous Lucas with brave Lyle  
High as their worth deserved or Martial Toil.  
And to the Muse's glory next declare  
Illustrious Love sublimed by Souls of War.  
This great Example Female Charms do show,  
When in a Hero's Joined a Lover too.  
Nor shall Flavira thy bright Story be,  
Heaped in Oblivious dull Calamity.  
With what the Beauteous Rosalin's soft flame,  
May Merit from Records reprieved by same.  
Many renowned these splendours had admired,  
Whilst their Souls wishes differently conspired.  
In Rosalin's smooth breast remained no space  
Where full affection did not Lucas place,  
Yet so screnely calm did that admit,  
As spoke her flower of Love and facile Wit.  
Flavira more severely did apply,  
●o heighten flames of Magnanimity.  
Judging that perils to her Lover brought,  
The Haughty Trophies by her wishes sought.  
Nor would she yield Fames trusty Tongue could blaze  
Valour that equalled Lyles Heroic praise.  
Too proudly glorying, that her powerful Charms  
Joined with her Lover's Soul propense to Arms.  
Forgetting that too often Stars denied  
To Crown the Ends of Woman's daring pride.  
These Beauties that did ●in●ally derive  
A Generous Blood did worthily Contrive,  
How they might strictest Amity complete,  
And like their Lovers prove in Friendship great.  
Oft they prolonged discourse till setting Sun,  
Rehearsing deeds this dreadful War were done:  
Oft had they broke repose in hope to hear  
Events of Fights in which their Hero's were.  
Nor did the Objects of their passion ●ind▪  
No different Method to their Values Joined.  
In Lucas Valour fiercely did abound,  
And firm as Hannibal in Conduct found:  
When Fields were most Imbrued with bloody streams,  
Or Foes were charged Renowned for Martial flames.  
But in Great Lyle another Scipio seemed,  
Calm as best Fortitude would be esteemed,  
Or Soul that's mild and Tracticably great,  
And, like that Roman, Prowess could complete.  
These Hero's who did gloriously contend  
How each might most appear a signal friend,  
Had mixed with intervals of Martial thought,  
The soft discoveries from love's Text were taught.  
Dilating much Fl●vira's sprightly Charms,  
Her darting Beams with her applause of Arms.  
Besides the Epithets they did allow  
To Rosalin's smooth Grace and Feature due.  
And might pose aptest Story to convey,  
Where love and Merit best direct their way.  
Lucas, whose Soul was filled with daring flame,  
And thirst of deeds that fiercely purchased fame:  
Relentless to all softness of the mind,  
By which his Martial heat might be declined:  
Unto Courageous Lyle did thus express;  
Much is my heart obliged to confess  
Admired Rosalin's serenest Praise,  
And what her blooming splendours yet may raise.  
Nor is't unknown to me how many Brave  
At Beauty's Tempting shrine vouchsafed to crave:  
This even Achilles did when he obeyed  
Deidamia Charms, tho' Greeks then missed his aid.  
But ne'er of Lucas story shall relate,  
That Amorous leisure stayed his warlike heat.  
Or that for him Gay Hymen's Tapers burn,  
Whilst Loyal bloods obliged its loss to mourn:  
Or Foes shall dare their Prince oppose with Arms,  
Howe'er I value woman's lovely Charms.  
This speech the worthy Lyle severer thought,  
Than what loves Maxims usually had taught;  
And could not but with Generous pity see,  
The Grief of Soul which Rosalin's might be.  
Whose sense though Calm, as dawn of Gentlest day,  
Might yield resentment at uncouth delay.  
But much had Lyle Flavira's sense repined,  
And known Caprice unto her Value Joined:  
Prone to exact from his Atcheiuments more  
Than he wished Men should from his deeds explore.  
Discerning well how often Mortal praise,  
Does less Man's Merit then detraction raise.  
These apprehensions in the worthy Lyle,  
Conveyed by looks instead of words their stile.  
An outward proneness Nature does dispense  
When genuinly described her inward sense.  
And from the Soul's Internal worth implies  
Some Trouble in the Face that truth denies.  
In which strict Mirror Lucas soon perceived  
Th' Emotions which his Lyle within had grieved.  
And held it no less worthy to Assay,  
If Martial thoughts conned his concerns allay.  
To whom he thus delivers, if great friend  
Thou wouldst with me thy Gallant worth extend;  
Think not the Harmony of Lute and Voice,  
Or Face which the Effeminate Man can most rejoice;  
Should mix their Gentle Fervors with the Flame  
That Spirits deeds which spread a Soldiers Fame.  
Not that I Love perversely do decline  
In the Attractive form of Rosaline:  
Enough my Soul her value can admire,  
When Mars there leaves a space for Amorous fire.  
This said, to their Commands these Hero's speed,  
As aptest Stations whence their same should spread.  
The Royal Forces before Redding drew,  
When like a dismal Round they soon did view  
An Army's Compass to a Leaguer formed,  
Not from Intent the Town should then be stormed;  
Since as in Course of Story has been told,  
Fielding did Treaty for surrender Hold.  
And e'er the King's Battalions thither came,  
The time of yielding fully known to Fame.  
Treaty, best Captains sometimes wisely choose,  
That by Concessions they may cheapest loose.  
Deeming that he too much provoketh Fate,  
Who leaves to Fortune all that force may get.  
But Wars intrign's when of this saving kind,  
Rarely obliging disquisitions find.  
Whilst most their boldest Criticisms bestow,  
On deeds that Caution more than Valour show.  
Beside close Contracts might from gain arise,  
Since Gold did often strongest Towns surprise.  
Propensly Judging that each worldly Fact  
Does private Interest most deligned compact.  
All which from Fonds of fraud in Humane Race,  
And Covetous Gild too aptly Men embrace;  
To such Constructions Mortals do incline,  
As like their vileness others they define.  
The King whose Prudence greatest was alone,  
Might from Events have been Auspicious known:  
Had not his Gentle Soul been too propense,  
Withdrawn by other far Inferior Sense.  
And from that Times important Juncture shows,  
That Princes best their perspectives dispose,  
When they discern, from Councils they receive,  
That wiser to themselves their Souls can give.  
Some that would to the King presage success,  
Added unto their hope their Garnished dress.  
Judging that Kings such Courtship well Allow  
That Grandieur seem in Exigents to show.  
Others assured that Fielding would not fail,  
By a Courageous sally to prevail:  
If first the Royal Conduct gained some Post  
That might impead the bold besiegers most.  
Which Motive being less Circumspect through haste,  
Occasioned Perils to ensue as fast.  
Whilst Essex Cawsham-Bridge had then possessed,  
And of his daring Arms there placed the best.  
Yet o'er this pass 'twas res'lutely decreed  
That relief should to distressed Redding speed.  
By many censured a Pernicious Course,  
Since Nature there had posted too her Force.  
Besides 'twas thought some Leaders lest perceived  
What might that time have better been Achieved.  
On Berkshire side, where large Campaigns abound,  
(The Scopefull Blessings of that fertile Ground)  
And through which (straitened less) the Royal Power  
Might Redding Leaguer have attacked that hour.  
But Heaven determined Cawsham-Bridge should name  
That days Events which wonder gave to Fame.  
Rupert, his Station took to force this pass,  
(And sure 'twas hot where his the onset was)  
No Jove when painted with a dreadful Brow,  
Bidding his Lightning burst with Thunders Blow,  
Could represent this Princes Conduct then,  
Or Shot far surer Thundered deaths to Men.  
Tho' losses on his side were many found,  
Whose Soul enough taught daring to abound.  
Whilst smoke and Flame did so promiscuous blend,  
As Fame's best eye, which she did thither send,  
Was forced with some disorder to relate  
How Chiefs renowned and Soldiers mingled Fate.  
Tho' no bold deeds or Life profusely lost,  
Nor what did praise their resolute Conduct most,  
Could from the hardy Foes their post obtain,  
Who thought no loss too dear could that Maintain.  
And by recruited Courage soon Supplied  
The Rooms where Lives before had Stoutest died.  
But leaving thus this Prince engaged in Fight,  
Some other prospects do my Muse Invite:  
Whereby this days fierce exit may be known,  
Tho' not each Circumstance nor Action shown:  
Which tedious Chronicles more aptly spread,  
And Stories where their Lumbers fully read.  
Ruthen a Captain long approved by Fame,  
In Wars harsh Winters passed and Summer Flame;  
And by Time Tutored, in himself beheld,  
How Ruff experience in his years excelled.  
Nor less the King his Ancient prowess graced,  
In being (as told) his Captain General placed.  
And had the Soldiers part as sully shown,  
In his Attempt to save the sieged Town.  
No Chief his Conduct could have then outdone,  
If Fortune had been that day to be won.  
Much did his brave example then incite,  
His Soldiers Valours led by him to sight;  
And where observed less hardy to Assail,  
He Strove by speech to win them to prevail;  
Which as his Martial plainness did admit  
(The dialect his Soul did Chi●sly sit.)  
He then did utter, much in words like these:  
Known 'tis to me how hardly Men appease  
The Heart's disorder, when with Terror shook,  
Or can't undaunted on disasters look:  
Which should least disassect stout Soldiers Mind,  
And his increase of Honour, thence declined.  
No step like that in Bloody Fields I sought,  
Or when Commanded shrank in Act or Thought.  
This Me from lowest Files did Gradual rais●,  
Until attained a steady Captains Praise.  
By the same Method let your Actions show  
That I your General am, and Leader now.  
This Speech delivered with a Soldiers Grace,  
And Brevity well suiting Time and place,  
With what his long proved Conduct did Import  
To give their hope and Courage more effort:  
Soon did his drooping Militants dispose  
More vigorously against their daring Foes.  
And now Death's Language soon by Guns was spoke,  
Limbs scattered were with halfs of Bodies broke.  
Some Vali●nt Heads shot oss, and as men Tell  
Their Trunks a while stood headless ere they sell.  
And where perhaps hereafter may be found  
Limbs (with their Bodies) ne'er went under ground.  
Whilst Lives that by such Separation fall,  
Seem less to further Resurrections Call,  
If, in that Instant, Missing parts must find  
Their bodies tho' to distant dust confined.  
What Man can doubt how various death was here,  
Or how much thin'd by loss Files did appear.  
When Peals against Peals Death conceyed in Course;  
Like Leaves, Men dropped, that feel rough autumn's force.  
Tho' this from no side sury could withdraw,  
Where Danger could not English Courage awe.  
Whilst Fortune yet a wavering Station held,  
Who least to Arms grants favours uncompelled.  
Essex w'had thought his hope enough secured,  
Began to doubt how he stood then assured:  
The Bridge, on which he'd placed his stoutest Files,  
Strowed thick with Bodies there gave up their Toils.  
The Gentle streams that underneath did Glide,  
With louder Sobs seemed then to haste the Tide;  
As through this Bridge the Billows had took flight  
With greater Noise and Trembling at this Fight.  
When breathless Corpse into this stream were Thrown,  
And on the Fleeting Billows ghastly shown:  
Till in some Calmer hour (in stead of Graves)  
They sunk to Earth at bottom of these Waves.  
These sights the resolute Earl did little please,  
Besides disturbed how he might next appease  
The Clamorous Houses, should his Conduct fail,  
Or not as was Expected then prevail.  
Enough observed how sti●●y some had striven  
To draw from him the Ruling Parties Love:  
And did their new Erected Creatures raise,  
That subtly blemished his Loud vulgar praise.  
And as they spread the value of their own,  
Had their Neglects on his Achievements thrown.  
Whose Poplar Soul by all Attractions sought  
To be Fame's Jewel in the people's Thought.  
Detesting all that did aspire to rise  
Like him Conspicuous unto Common Eyes.  
Or bid him doubt that, with few steps of Time,  
Some other Grandeur to his height might Climb.  
Which apprehensions he could least depress,  
Whilst doubtful seen by him that days success.  
Skippon, whose bolder Zeal was strictly Joined  
To what their sighting party had designed:  
And as a Prime Enthusiast won on Men  
Who chose their Saints from sturdy sighters then.  
His Martial Consolation than applies  
(Fitting that Juncture) with erected Eyes.  
Thou Peer, said he, heavens darling, whom Gods call  
Hath set to own his Cause before us all,  
And does this day our pious Breasts Inspire,  
As was that Chiefs when full of smoke and fire.  
He saw the Bush, a Flaming Type to him  
That Israel's Force should Enemies consume.  
Tho' at that sight his stoutest Nerves did shake,  
(As with us Zealots may be said to quake)  
Till more confirmed how 'twas a Heavenly sign,  
That God's select should Valours flame resine.  
Let this our boldest Enemies perceive,  
And from their daring hazards death receive:  
As o'er this pass their Files would force their way,  
Till full by ours repulsed this signal day.  
Doubt not but '●will even Keinton-field exceed,  
Or what at Brand●ord might have been Achieved,  
If sirmer Soul'd our conduct on had brought  
The Cheerful zeal that for us that time fought.  
All which I Instance with a Godly Flame,  
That your deeds now might more exalt your fame.  
The Earl who did not much in words abound,  
Or Canting Glosses than were frequent found  
With Scripture Hero's, little seemed to say,  
Or what enough approved to sight their way.  
And now both sides had surious Conflicts brought  
As high as Valours Zenith ●ou'd be sought.  
If not, to be yet more Supremely Brave,  
Wished that their Souls unbodyed force might have,  
Or unconsined unto such outward parts  
Whose power was less than vigour of ●●eir hearts.  
The Royalists like fierce Aggressors strove  
Th' Essexian● hardy prowess to remove.  
Tho' these like firmest Rock their Station held,  
Too roughly fixed to be by Waves repelled.  
Whilst Bands of Billows against their hardened Might  
Bursting retire as more supply their Fight.  
And thus the Terrors of this day were seen,  
With dismal Slaughters that did intervene.  
Some loudly asked what Motives could Confine  
Fielding that Instant within Redding Line.  
And not his vigorous Sally then apply  
T' divert at least the Stubborn Enemy.  
Considering how much Blood was cast away  
In expectation of his aid that day.  
Others with grosser Murmurs did reflect,  
Upon the Cause they ●udg'd of his neglect:  
And thus by virulent speech his Honour stained,  
Which to that hour unquestioned had remained.  
So various seemed the Sense and Deeds of some,  
That would the Soul and Facts of others doom.  
And which were here too tedious to repeat,  
With all that Died or Lived Heroick Great.  
As needless 'twere bold Lucas' worth to tell,  
Or how undoubted Lyle did then excel:  
Who did in Warlike Actions so aspire,  
As posed Hyperboles to advance them higher.  
But Valiant Dornland since thy Mighty Mind  
Had much peculiar Glory then adjoined,  
And such as did thy Eminent Figure raise  
Above the Level of Associate Praise.  
My Muse shall here preserve thy Copy so,  
As most Transcendent thou alone must go.  
Who tho' a Volunteer that day didst serve,  
That uncommanded thou mightst more deserve:  
And with an Active Courage unconfined,  
Unto the Bravest Actions foremost joined.  
When judging that his P●rties Strenuous Fight  
Must lessen, if not reinforced their Might.  
And fearing that some Messenger's Mischance,  
Or Falsehood hindered Feilding's soon Advance,  
In some like Ominous Pendants hung too near  
The Grace vouchsafed them by the Royal Ear:  
Since he conceived the King's Will did import,  
That Fielding, by some Sally's bold effort  
Should passage gain for his Stout Foot and Horse  
To aid the King, and his Relief enforce.  
Revolving thus, his fearless Steed he guides,  
Swimming the River 'twixt these sighting sides.  
To this adjoined a Meadow's wide extent,  
(Whose Pregnant Green more Liquid growth was lent  
When this Streams spreading Arms did smoothly glide  
T'embrace the Surface as a T●●ming Bride)  
And having passed it starts his Valiant Race,  
Where he beheld direct and open space,  
That from the River to the Town did lead,  
And that way guides his swi●t and hearty Steed.  
When Fortunes aid, that best Designs can wing,  
Did Dornland then unlet or dangered bring  
Within the Town's Command; but what surprise  
This bold Adventure gave his Enemies,  
Or how prevented, in that Dismal Hour,  
From Intercepting him by Armed Power:  
Must sound Conjecture no less wonder give,  
Than what admiring Men from Fame receive.  
Whilst like swift Bird, that Wings the Airy wa●  
Where Ravenous Fowl dispers'dly watch for Prey,  
Yet with their Greedy Gorges must attend  
Until with ●lower Feathered they contend,  
Or with more swift surprise their Talons bring  
To grasp the Bird did them before out-wing:  
He then arrived; and next to Fielding spoke  
Briefly this Sense, with Mien composed and Look.  
Enough my haste the King's Concern implies,  
As those sight yonder, if so far your eyes,  
With any Brave by you Commanded here,  
Did from sad Optics their Alarms share.  
And shame 'twere Redding such should now confine,  
That Blush to stand within a Leaguered Line;  
Like rows of Ciphers to no use amount,  
Unless, in you, an Unite guides their Count;  
ere Royal Bands their forced discomsits show,  
Tho' unfought Fielding, saw them vanquished so.  
If you no timely Summons yet has found  
That bids you hast your Drums and Trumpets sound,  
And to your King's Assistance win your way:  
By me 'tis said, nor apprehend this day  
But with Courageous odds you will enforce,  
What's yet undone by Royal Foot and Horse.  
Our Foes enough their Consternation feel,  
Who else had hindered my Steeds nimble heel,  
Which passing near their Parties faces brought  
Me hither, by no bold Pick●●rers fought.  
And if to guide or aid your resolute way,  
You'll any Stress of Conduct on me lay;  
Be well assured that Dornland shall be thine  
As far as worthy Motives can enjoin.  
These words delivered with perspicuous Grace,  
To Feilding's Soul amazement gave a space:  
Before by speech he uttered this reply;  
What Sense will your Heroic worth deny,  
That thus contemning Perils brought you here,  
Your Valour too adorned with Loyal Care.  
Yet know that Fielding heart none need incite,  
Who scorns to live and to be bid to sight.  
By Stars I vow, and all Supremest Good,  
No i'll nor disaffection in my blood  
Shivers my heart, or bids me turn unjust  
Unto the Reputation of my Trust.  
Believe me, worthy Man, I'd rather choose  
This day with other Brave my life to lose,  
Then stand such Peevish censure which I know  
Some meanly Soul'd will on my Value throw:  
Did not my Steadfast honour me restrain,  
And Treaty, that adds links unto the Chain;  
Which I admitted after well observed,  
The Place too weak, by me, to be preserved.  
Were Redding else invested this bold hour,  
With all the Houses best confirmed Power,  
The King should not have fought and I stand still,  
Had no express to Fielding spoke his will.  
But Prudence Joined to Warlike Justice▪ stays  
Me from Attempting so inglorious praise.  
O That my Prince might this soon understand,  
Ere he to loss does longer ●ight Command:  
Or hope my Conduct may him now repair,  
Since in my breach of Faith his Cause would share.  
Much had this speech the Generous Dornland moved,  
Who Strict Integrity in Man approved;  
Judging no Fortitude deserved that name,  
Unless best Justice does Complete the claim.  
Which Thought well Pondered, next he Fielding leaves,  
And unto Courage and his Fortune gives  
His Persons Safety, resolved his Trusty steed  
The same way back unto the King should speed.  
But soon Perceived his Foes had Stations chose,  
Where they could fiercely his return oppose,  
Or any durst with daring hazard bring  
Intelligence or Errand from the King,  
That might th'engaged Feilding's Soul relax,  
And Essex leave a fruitless Truce to Tax.  
The valiant Dornland seeing now how fast  
The Furious Enemy did accost his haste;  
Before, behind, and round about him spread,  
Admiring how they failed to leave him dead:  
Whilst Shot, like Lines unto a Point designed,  
Fl●w as no Centre but his Heart 'twould find.  
On all sides in his flight he fought with some,  
Through others to their Fate he forced his room,  
Until his Nimble Courser and his Fight,  
At once outdid his swift Pursuers Might.  
And in this bold Adventure did receive  
Such Marks of Glory with best Verse may live.  
His Vesture torn with Shot, as Ensigns show,  
When Eyes the Bearers Valour thence allow.  
Besides some Scars upon his Visage seen,  
Which told how sharp his perils then had been.  
Thus he returned and to the King made known  
Nobly, what Sense of Fielding was his own,  
With all Averments by that Chief were made,  
Why he his Prince's Mandate disobeyed:  
Since he obliged by Truce must Redding yield,  
And not to save that help to win the Field.  
The King now Dornland's worth perceived more,  
Then from observance first he did explore.  
Resolving thence that with his Kingly Grace  
He'd such remark upon his Merit place,  
That should most aptly unto Fame convey  
The Loyal value he atcheiv'd that day.  
Saying, Thy Prince this Jewel gives to thee;  
And if presage of his Auspicious be,  
His Cause shall prosper with renowned success,  
Whilst thee, to wear this gift, Heavens will shall bless.  
This worthy Man's Intelligence thus told,  
Soon moved the King to bid that his force should  
No longer suffer by continuing sight  
Which so much Fruitless prospect gave to sight.  
And thus both sides with too great loss withdrew,  
Since English blood did that more precious show.  
Much like to Ships with Masts and rigging tore,  
And Men disabled, next must tack to shore,  
Where with most leisure and industrious Care,  
Their dismal loss and figures they repair.    

The FIFTH BOOK.  
The Argument.  

Redding delivered, by a Martial Call  
The Actions Taxed, and Fielding doomed to die.  
Conduct depraved the Court and Field affects,  
Which Dornlands' Soul does ominously revolve:  
Who unto Polyaster next repairs,  
From his deep Science prospects to discern  
Of this Wars feature Actions and Events.   

THe Tongue of Fame, whose Ensign is the Crowd,  
When various Clamours she disperseth Loud,  
Or Throws on Mortals multiplied Mistake,  
As they through Errors-Glass their Prospects take.  
Whence oft to Vulgar thoughts such Mediums rise  
That feed the Ignis-fatuus of their Eyes.  
Nor seldom do contests in Camps proclaim  
How boldly Militants Impose on Fame.  
To which Court-Minion● their concurrence yield,  
When they with Martialists Intrigue in field.  
And would on Measures (by the Armed chose,)  
Their complaisance most plausibly dispose.  
Whose Souls are to such gaudy Morals joined,  
As least unto adversity are kind;  
Or genuinly the deeds of men Express,  
When Int'rested their value to depress.  
All which unhappy Feildings Case now proved,  
'Gainst whom both Court & Camp displeasures moved.  
Nor less than dreadful Martial sense must free  
His person charged with Faithless Infamy.  
Which did the King's just Temper more Incense,  
As Redding Loss was aggravated thence.  
And thus before this Rigid Bar did come,  
The once Famed Fielding, to receive his doom.  
Whose former worth no Mitigation gained,  
As he then seemed to Honour's Jury stained.  
By whose strict Verdict sentence soon was past,  
And day appointed that must be his Last;  
From Executioners that Mars does call,  
When his Delinquents should most daring fall.  
Tho' Honoured held if they by Engines die,  
That Force with utmost dread the Armed to ●●y.  
Whilst he with Constant fortitude Complied  
To bear th'Infliction against his Life decreed.  
Whence many worthies had more value placed  
On him so ●●conc●rn'd his end embraced.  
As Generous confidence, when Death is near,  
Implys the Soul disdains her Cause to ●●ar.  
Which worth in him Compassion more Inclined,  
With such discernments as might aptost find  
Regards of Mercy, if those Motives might  
His death prevent and wounded Honour right.  
Considering next if like a Soldier He  
Had yielded Redding to the Enemy,  
On Terms that prudent Captains would embrace,  
When they'd surrender fortified place.  
The Situation weighed and what might thence  
Induce him not to hazard its defence.  
All which discurssions with their Calm and heat,  
Found soon Conveyance to the Royal Seat:  
Which Pallace-perdus watchfully attend,  
That their Address may thither first ascend.  
Whilst, of Court Intercessors most admired.  

* Supposed to be the then Duchess of Richmond.  Beauty for Feildings safety then Conspired:  
And with the Eminent Lustres of her Face,  
Begged for this Chief her Sovereign's Act of Grace,  
With Tears that most resistless, Men surprise,  
When made the grief and Prayer of women's eyes.  
Which Far Compassion in her Sovereign moved,  
Who Chastely Female Gracious spendors loved.  
And held no Bounty by their Charms obtained,  
But was their value when with Virtue gained.  
And to this worthy of her Sex thus said,  
Happy is Fielding for whom you have paid,  
The Value of your pity shed in Tears:  
Tho' Warlike Sense a Rougher course oft Stears.  
Then Mercies Milder Orb or Conduct show,  
Whose Beams from Breasts of Kings, most boundless flow.  
Nor has Attentless ear to Mercies call  
Been ere my Crime, or Subjects unjust fall.  
Which Candid mildness shined throughout my Reign,  
When Sanguine guilt did other Sceptres Slain.  
And if Offenders I less prone forgive,  
Their Souls may in their bodies blush to live.  
But Providence, whose secret Acts of Grace  
Incline the hearts of Kings to Mercies Case;  
And like Heaven's bounties in the Orbs above,  
Do Sovereign Conduct more benignly Move:  
To which within the Royal Sphere was joined  
Wales blooming Prince, whose soon compassion shined.  
As Princely Souls, when most enriched by Heaven,  
Have Mercies Talents early to them given.  
What verse his Royal Graces can declare  
In Acts (his Mirrors) so transparent are.  
And in a Second Charles the Former known,  
As Kings whose Souls no Interregnum own.  
And thus unto his Royal Father said,  
Th' Address that for your Gracious Pardon's made  
By this fair object, let my Heart conspire  
To aid as her attractive Beams require.  
Nor is't denied that with my youthful years  
Compassion flows where Woman sheds her Tears.  
By whose bright Sex I early do explore,  
That hard 'tis to deny when they Implore.  
These Intercessions of a Royal Son  
Much on the King's forgiving Nature won.  
Glad that his Princely Heir did then appear  
So Ripe in Mercy ere his Manhood year.  
As if presaging that in Future Time,  
When evil Men had highest raised their Crime,  
His Famed oblivions should make Subjects know  
How much the Father by the Son they owe.  
When first the Condemned Fielding Lived to see  
Himself acquitted by their Clemency.  
After a Warlike Counsel had decreed  
He should to Mars as Sacrificed Bleed.  
By which 'tis seen how oft th' Impeached find  
Their fellow-Subjects less than Monarch's kind.  
Much did this Gracious Act the Court divide,  
As parties there did different Measures guide.  
Who under Prince's Good Improve the Skill  
Of being most Artful as they save or kill.  
And in extremes of things such thoughts Impart  
As little show the Courtiers Candid Art  
Or as some late Cabals disposed were,  
That could for interest love or hate endear:  
Seldom permitting Just concern to come  
Nearer the Heart then their cold Lobby-Room.  
Tho' Applications early visits make,  
In hope a kinder Patron next may wake:  
Or not Transcendent vileness so extend,  
As, more than Prince, would present ends befriend.  
Which Sense that Season did with some abound,  
(And with their veiled Treason after found)  
Held with the Subtle Houses to Conspire,  
To whom they Royal secrets sent for hire.  
Of which not few suspected were that time,  
But most the false Sydesmonds' impious Crime,  
Who could such specious Measures give to things,  
That Serpent-like his Soul deceived the Kings.  
No Palace e'er did such a Sinon know,  
As Measures yet to come will fully show.  
Often he had unto the Foe conveyed,  
How by his Sovereign Wars designs were laid.  
And whence the wary Enemy might wave,  
Attempts intended, or advantage have.  
All which Clandestine Arts had greater source  
From the Composure of the Royal Force.  
Whose Ranks most filled with Generous blond and flame,  
That with profuser courage Courted Fame  
Then Martial caution strictly did allow,  
Occasioned their disasters to ensue.  
At Night their quarters forced when sometimes they  
Watchless, or more supine disordered lay.  
The Generous Dornland this had duly weighed,  
And how through their Miscarriage, or betrayed;  
The Loyal Mil'tants oft defeated were,  
And from Enormous loss might Tax their care.  
But more did Dornlands' busy thoughts debate,  
The gift and strange Prediction which so late  
His Sovereign on his Merit had bestowed,  
And like King's Souls remote import foreshowed.  
And next revolving in his Anxious mind,  
If lettered Man could Explanation find  
Of thuoghts abstrusely on his sense prevailed,  
And must by deepest Science be unveiled.  
None like the famous 
* A Denomination under which is here described a Character of Science.  Polyaster He  
Deemed fit to Salve this seeming Mystery;  
By Emblem might the Kings concern unfold,  
And what of Dornland was to be foretold.  
Polyaster who might weighty Story Fill,  
With all that could Illustrate humane skill;  
Having to wonder Arts and Science shown,  
And was then Poet more Paophetick known.  
Whose then abode near Oxford's confines stood,  
Adorned with shades and the adjoining flood.  
Like Mansions by the wiser Ancients chose,  
When they'd from Worldly cares themselves repose.  
Or had on purpose thoughtful leisure took  
T'unfold the secrets of Great Nature's Book.  
Him Dornland visits when most Mortal eyes  
Were closed by sleep, and only restloss skies  
To Usher night their sparkling Tapers lent▪  
Till the World's eye surveyed the days extent.  
Celestial Motions, with their Sublime Powers,  
Observed by him in many useful hours  
Which careful life was in his Visage seem  
Where in his comely Age did ●●t●rven●  
Wrinkles, which shewed his Soul enough oppressed,  
Tho' in that Warfull Time no sword depressed  
The Peaceful Contemplation of his mind  
Who did like the great 
* Archimedes the Famous Mathematician of Syracuse.  Syr●●use●n find  
Esteem that spread with largest wings of Fame,  
And with his Accurate knowledge blazed his Name.  
His Lifes Strict Method did example raise,  
The Reg'lar Ancients most approved praise,  
With Contemplations so disposed that he  
To Heaven and Time might still lest debtor be.  
Whose precious Hours his richest thought employed,  
When he, as life's best Steward, them enjoyed.  
Admiring how the Prodigals of Time  
Durst, that debauched, Annex unto their Crime.  
As if the World's swift eye did beams bestow  
For slothful Man's Eccentric use below:  
Or Stars, that owed the Sun vast sums of Light,  
Did shine to aid the wicked deeds of Night.  
With Prayer he first began, that aid divine  
Might to his Sublime thoughts assistance join;  
Nor did he close his Eyes at Night to rest,  
Till kneeling he had owned days founder blest.  
Wondering that Mortals largely could receive,  
And Heaven, the Author, Thanks so sparing give.  
Nor more his outward form of life composed,  
Then sitting what his inward Gifts proposed.  
His Food with best proved Temperance did agree,  
When healthful Life had long Antiquity:  
And Simple meats the body's Strength refin'd  
More suitably Assistant to the Mind.  
This wisely Ancient Contemplations raised,  
When Temperate life and Science were most praised.  
Nor pains or Conduct did he then remit,  
That more divine might raise his sublime Wit.  
And when his Studies Interval required,  
By that diversion too his Soul aspired.  
His Room of Contemplation duly graced  
With niches, where Compendiously were placed  
Statues of such whose Learning did impart  
Truth's Maxims, Crowned by Mathematic Art  
That like the Queen of Science does convey  
Proofs too Divine for Men to disobey.  
Of these he most Intentively beheld  
Such as to Britain's Glory most excelled.  
And whom of all had most admired been,  
The Matchless Napier, here was likened seen.  
Who seemed by Figure in his hand to bear  
His Logorithim-Tables which his fame declare.  
Above what former demonstration wrought,  
Or Problems by men held inspired were Taught.  
Of whom another Euclid well might learn,  
Or Ptolemy his works outdone discern.  
Whilst this famed Scots Arithmetic does teach,  
What Power of Numbers ne'er before could reach.  
And easier far did Archimedes sinned  
Sea-Sands o●tsum'd then Napiers profound ●●ind.  
Whose Numbers added Multiplication serve,  
Substracted nothing from Division swerve.  
Which Art did to Astronomy Convey  
High Computations his most facile way.  
And taught Geometry to lay aside  
Old Sins and Tangents long a tedious Guide.  
Wonder of Man that gave such knowledge Birth  
As did at once oblige both Heaven and Earth.  
Next him Polyaster did with Reverence view  
The Famous Briggs, whose Admired products show  
The Science in his Orb he did extend,  
And, unto Former, improved Talents lend.  
The Artsull Staturist so his form expressed,  
That his fled looks seemed warm in Stone to rest.  
Beholding Strictly as with lively sight,  
The Trig'nometrick skill he brought to light;  
Which lines did represent in Bodies Cut,  
Before him on a neat Supporter put.  
Besides the Reg'lar Solids, and the Art  
His shadows on them did to hours impart.  
Next whom renowned Outred's Figure stood,  
No less approved the Carvers Art in wood.  
Whereon a Cirdle round his Loins was wrought  
Deep Analytick questions by him Taught.  
At which, as emblem'd, hung that wondrous key,  
His Mathematic Clavis did Convey.  
These Famed, with many other Learned were  
Preserved in Image by Polyaster's Care.  
His Mind, Invited, by their Figures seen,  
To be in Science great as they had been.  
By which Impulse he oft computed things,  
Remotest Art to humane Knowledge brings.  
Rvolving if the Circles long sought Square,  
Past Computations do aright declare.  
And how the Wonder of the doubled Cube  
Had been attempted, or a Clearer Tube  
Than Galileus skill had brought to pass  
By Optic Doctrine, or his wondrous Glass.  
Leaving Men doubtful whether Orbs above  
Did Worlds within their rapid Circles Move.  
Or how the Earth did to his Tube appear  
To roll, instead of Sun, her Annual Sphere.  
Like which high Theorems did Polyaster sinned  
Results of his no Less Stupendious mind.  
Who by his Mighty knowledge did Complete  
Productions worthy all Precedent great.  
Next these the mighty Hobbs he well beheld,  
Whose Modern Soul with Giant reason filled,  
O'ermatched past Phylosophick strength of Thought,  
By Science in his Natural Method Taught.  
Discharged of Terms, the Schools Imposed Dress,  
Where Art Framed words, the proper sense few guess;  
And in their Lettered Ocean undescryed  
The Chart that more refined could knowledge guide.  
Whilst this vast man opposed the World's mistake,  
And did his Learning Nature's Patron Make.  
To Honour whom Polyaster did allow  
His Form in Cedar Curious Carved should show,  
And as that Substance does in Trees exceed  
The height of all in Forest's Tallest Breed,  
So the Transcendent Genius of his Mind  
Was, in his Likeness, thus to Fame designed.  
Nor less was his peculiar value shown  
To Persons whom the Muses did renown,  
Their outward Forms with such high Life designed,  
As nought seemed missed but their Etherial Mind:  
Above Apelle'es' Pencil to express,  
Or what from stroke of Sculpturists Men guests.  
No Imaged Looks or Artful Features tell  
How the Souls Venus does with Mortals dwell.  
Which Sublime Thought by Polyaster weighed,  
And wit this Islands Glory far displayed,  
Through Powerful Sons of Phoebus by whose sense  
The Mighty Nine best raptures did dispense.  
With these around their brows were Laurels placed,  
Large next to those Apollo's Temples Graced:  
Of which, he Chaucer, Spencer, much beheld,  
And where their Learned Poems most excelled.  
Tho' words now obsolete express their Flame,  
Like Gems that out of Fashion value Claim.  
Near these in Statue witty Shakspere stood,  
Whose early Plays were soon next to Good.  
And Like a vast Dramatic Founder showed  
Bounties of Wit from his large Genius flowed.  
Whose worth was by this Learned duly weighed,  
As in effigy there he stood displayed.  
But more stupendious to his Soul appeared  
Proportions which great Jonson's Form declared,  
Whose deep Essigies he wished longer date  
Then Polished art in stone could Celebrate.  
Admiring next the wit that Crowned his Bays,  
WhoseScenes were works, when most fell short of Plays.  
So aptly by him Characters expressed,  
That showed his artful hand and Learning best.  
Whilst other Dramaticks like Planets were,  
Rambling to find their Centre near his Sphere.  
A Province Phoebus did on him bestow,  
When made his Wit's Lieutenancy below.  
As duly he did Fletcher's Soul explore,  
The Stages most Luxurian witty Store:  
With worthy Beaumont to his Figure Joined,  
Adapted most the Muse's Twins in mind:  
Whose Genius so conspired that Beaumont Might  
Divide with Fletcher wit by equal right.  
Nor less than past some present he admired.,  
Whose work for Envys darts too high Aspired:  
Or black detraction or abusive Pen,  
Fouled oft to Slain the worth of living Men.  
Thus did Polyastor usefully transmit  
These wondrous Authors of best Art and wit  
To Future Age, wishing their Soul's renown,  
Might long survive their Forms in wood and Stone.  
Admiring Dornland had beheld a space  
This Learned Worthys Comely years and Grace,  
Before his wonder gave expression way  
By words to utter what he meant to say.  
Who thus with grave humility began,  
Father of Science more than Soul of Man  
Has yet Embellished, or by Heaven allowed  
To look through Vails which inmost Nature shroud;  
Or Starry Providence, that to Vulgar sight  
Appears like Spangles, which Vain Souls delight.  
As if that Heaven profusely did bestow  
Such eyes above as saw not things below.  
O, tell me then, if to thy search 'tis shown,  
What Future issue may be sadly known  
Of this outrageous War, or thence shall be  
The King and Publicks future Destiny.  
The Noble Dornland this no sooner said,  
And Polyast●r had his looks surveyed:  
But his discerning eyes began apace  
To power their Tears upon his Aged Face:  
ere he his deep Conceptions thus expressed;  
Pardon thou worthy Man the soul oppressed,  
Which more, than Niob's drops, deserves to fill  
Fountains where passions might be Emblem'd still.  
When I consider well this Furious Age,  
Such Hero's Numbered on a Martial Stage,  
That for their high descent and Graces spread  
Times Fatal Annals larger than yet read.  
As if our Isle had now profusest been,  
Aided by Nature to exalt her Sin.  
When many best of these alas must find,  
War, to their Gold of Virtue, too unkind.  
Little 'twill please the Living Great to know  
What hapless periods they must undergo.  
Tho' hard to Destiny's accounts to come  
Where Martial deeds their broken reckon sum;  
Tallies, which Providence least Strikes above,  
That for Fates Bankers would no Chequer prove.  
How far Heaven's beaming eyes may piercing see,  
Yet not divert Man's rageful Misery,  
Divines can bolder by their Maxims Teach,  
Then Reasons Philosophic Aid can reach  
From the Elaborate Alphabet above,  
Where Consonants and vowels wordless move  
In Stars that Heavens own Algebra Compute,  
And in their Question worked must leave some doubt.  
All which the wise Creator might dispense,  
To give his Conduct the remoter sense.  
And like Heavens heightfull distance men allow,  
Loseth Man's thoughts that winged would thither go.  
Much I esteem the Soldiers Valiant Art,  
And in my youthful years in Field took part  
Where Mighty Kings and Chiefs did battles guide,  
Nor did I less than others for my side:  
Whilst I with grief some Monarches than beheld  
Unfortunate, tho' Just their Cause in field.  
This I observe d before I did Employ  
My Soul on thoughts that peaceful bliss enjoy:  
And to be nearer Heaven did Improve  
My search of dispensations from above;  
Where Gentlest Stars did seldom Council call  
To rescue such themselves exposed to fall.  
If not so shined in their Eccentric Course,  
As more Irregular rendered deeds of Force,  
T'Inspect which Scheme my disquisition spare,  
Lest my Art tell what you'd unwilling hear.  
To which Magnanimous Dornland thus replied;  
Most Learned Patron, hard 'twere by you denied  
The Information my Desires implore,  
And which beyond Mankind you can explore.  
Yet think not so I'd prove your sublime Art  
As thereby cautioned to unfix my heart,  
Where Blood I breed that would not Lise delay  
By aid of Stars, if out of Honour's way.  
My Life's too worthless so your Skill to Court:  
No, 'tis my Sovereign's most Supreme Import,  
Which in this War such various progress shows,  
And other Circumstance my Thoughts propose,  
That bid me thus address, if Science may  
Inform my Soul a more propitious way.  
To which Polyaster gravely this adjoined,  
Think not fai● Son that 'tis to man designed  
The Certain Methods Providence does guide,  
Whose O●… flows no● Ebbs like other Tide.  
When things Emerge they oft abscond the why  
They were produced from Reesons broadest Eye.  
How far obscurer than must Mortal's doom  
Things ●…re abstruse with future Causes come.  
If Man the Universe could search around,  
And weigh all Causes and effects there found,  
Tho' in that Compass deuce appear to sight  
One Total Wonder 〈◊〉 in ●…th and height:  
Could he assure how Stars, or things ●elow  
Come to 〈◊〉 as we ●ehold'em now.  
Or how Heaven did the world's first Virgin hour  
Give womb of Time a future Issues power.  
Whence prying Man as doubtful might Convey  
The World's first Life as ●ix its dying day.  
Who from this mighty round can't understand  
More boundless being but at Second-hand.  
Since nothing so remote perfection shows,  
As thence Ma● his Creator's essence knows.  
Whilst all the Miracles which the World do fill,  
Pose us to search the unknown Founder's skill.  
Thus even the Lowest Tide of Earthly things  
Often directs us to supremer Springs:  
Like Rills, through easy Channels seem to Creep,  
Have Causes that Concealed on Mountains keep.  
How then shall Man the Gordian-knot untie,  
That's knit by much sublimer destiny.  
Or that way Kingdoms revolutions find,  
By far obscur●● Providence designed.  
Yet what this Inquisition would require,  
(Tho' I could wish declined thy strict desire)  
My Vig'lant studies shall as far Impart,  
As I can pierce with my Acutest Art,  
And know that I have oft revolved with Care  
The direful▪ progress of this wicked War,  
With such Catastrophe's I could convey  
To Future Time my Hieroglyphic way.  
On which, till now, no eye I did admit  
To guests that dumb Prophetic sigured wit.  
Behold these Scrolls which are in number Three,  
(Units whence springs odd Cubick Mystery.)  
The First I offer English deeds contains,  
With Sieges, Sallies, Battles fought on Plains.  
And next in Course this Faithless Irish shows,  
Steeped deep in Blood as here it figured flows.  
The Third Disloyal Scotland represents  
With their Fallacious Co●'nanted Intents.  
In all of which thou seest how many fall,  
As Honour's Catalogue best sums them all.  
Of these observe selectly such set ●orth  
Who most their Nations honoured in their worth.  
Of which some Worthies may to thee be known,  
As here in likeness dead or living shown.  
If my Art's Prospect duly shall relate  
Their Story yet reserved to future date,  
And in this Studied Copy things foresee  
To no Original yet can likened be.  
With Actions that most signally declare  
The high Intrigues and Fury of this War.  
No Strife so dear shall other Nations cost  
In Noblest Blood and Valiant Gentry lost,  
Which in these Fields, by Fate's regardless powers,  
Fall but to wither with less precious flowers.  
More to Impress their Love and Valour's due;  
See, in what Series here deplored do show  
The several Fights and Skirmishes when they  
Caused in their loss their Lovers Mournful day.  
As seemingly those espoused forms appear  
To drown their Souls and Looks as they weep here.  
Next these a mournful Spectacle is seen  
Of pitied Virgins, whose soft flame had been  
Plighted to Warlike Lives and Glories ●●ed,  
With Joys expected from the Marriagebed.  
(As Mortals less their Blessings prise possessed,  
Then such by Wishes valued are or guest.)  
And from their likened Lustres here do tell,  
That their Forms could with Grief unfaded dwell.  
As Lilies when in Rains they Tears do show,  
Caused by rough Storms where their smooth ●●●tures grow;  
Their Native Beauty doth impairless Stay,  
Or their last Glory in their dying day  
Thus Man with Grief these evils must explore  
That would with full Compassion them deplore.  
Which in this Martial Landscape here present  
So sadly near and distant Detriment:  
With Turb'lent change and Mischiefs that ensue,  
As unto sight these dreadful Visions show.  
And whence the meanly born as bad conspire  
To raise by vile degrees their Orb still higher.  
Whilst Heaven when pleased to join A●llictions worst,  
From Low and Impious fonds their mis●hiefs burst.  
Next, well inspect this face as't hear appears,  
Mark well his Subtle gestures, looks and Tears;  
And how his Sanguine Nose does him betray,  
As Bloody Beaks denote the Birds of prey.  
Observe him rising too from low Commands  
By boldest Steps, till there ho Gen'ral stands.  
Then Mark his Fawning and his Lips of Zeal,  
That more divinely he men's Souls might Steal.  
Or Crowds seduce who seldom can adjust  
How unsafe 'tis bad deeds and Prayer to Trust.  
Then view him here assaulting his King's ear,  
With Crocodile drops distilled to shape a Tear.  
Next see how he does shift his Janus' Face,  
And slights supinely offered Sovereign Grace.  
Then forward move thy eye to shadows there,  
Which in the Artful pencils strokes appear.  
And tho' thou dost no Visage of them see,  
Suppose 'em great as English blood can be.  
Their Coats of Arms above their heads displayed,  
Like Guilded fame on refined Honour laid.  
Besides a Crown that seems to hang in Air,  
As if the Head were wanted it should wear.  
Observe the Figures do this Curtain hold,  
Which vails these highly Em'nent yet untold.  
As if the Destinies, that can't relent,  
Concealed the Horridness of their Intent.  
Do they not represent the Furies when  
Their dreadful aspects Join with Impious Men;  
Or in their Snaky Tresses would Invite  
Some one to Act Hell's boldest Proselyte.  
See how they court this Bloody Chief to rise  
Yet more detested unto Humane eyes.  
And how his armed hand is stretched to Seize  
The Crown, thou seest, in hope of Aid from these.  
Stay thy Inquiry here, for 'tis a Text  
My Soul▪ s strict Comment has too far perplexed.  
Heroic Dornland in whose steady Breast  
No apprehensions had so deep Impressed,  
As these by Learned Polyaster shown,  
If Times dark Footsteps were to man Foreknown:  
Or in such Hieroglyphic Shapes expand,  
When Death's black Trumpets most fill her winning hand.  
Besides the Figures of Peculiar Friends  
Fully described with their Severest ends;  
Some stripped in Fields, and in that ghastly plight  
Their wounds discerned through which their Souls took ●light.  
Who Like the Natural Fall of Humane kind,  
(Whose Endless Issue must to Clay be Joined)  
Embracing Earth's smooth Surface Seemed to Lie,  
The Eve that Last must Join Mortality.  
More 〈◊〉 his Inward Soul these sights Lament,  
Then outward Grief could Saddest represent.  
Moved from the Tragic Postures by him seen,  
And objects did as dismal Intervene.  
Tho' in dark prospects they to him were shown,  
As Light that dimly breaks through Clouds is known,  
With many Gallant persons high esteemed  
And some, of living friends, he dearest deemed,  
Nor did he well discern where sields seemed spread  
Thickest with bodies of the Valiant Dead,  
Whither the pencils shadow might not place  
With others, there observed, his dying Face.  
Yet all these apprehensions did Convey  
No such remorse of Death or dying day:  
As what these figured visions might portend,  
Which by this Artists skill had veiled the end,  
That through this Wars Success and Cruel strife  
His Sovereign's Cause might ruin with his Life.  
And caused the Loyal Dornland to Consult  
What from Polyaster's Knowledge would Result.  
Whom thus he moved; Tell me thou Famed of Men,  
How far this Pencil from your Thoughts and Pen  
Took the Stupendious Methods I behold,  
And but your Science only can unfold,  
Or Taught more haply from your sense to know,  
Designs our Sovereign Fortunate may show;  
With Bravest Nobles of this Martial Isle,  
And Generous Blood exposed to Furious Toil.  
Or that prevented which my doubtful Thought  
May sear to your deep prospects sadly brought.  
To which the Great Polyaster thus replied,  
Think not fair Son the Thread is soon untied  
That Subtle Destinies conspire to Twist,  
And what more high Guides Causes which they list.  
Of such, how Stars incline, Art may declare,  
Tho' they like Nightly guides to Science are,  
Consigned from Beaming the Sublimest Light,  
Os providence; Then worlds of Suns more Bright.  
The first high Author only can display,  
Tho' pleased sometimes to use the darker Ray  
Of Heavenly Bodies, whence sound Art may find  
Effects disposed but no disposers mind.  
So far may Humane Calculations reach,  
Tho' no Celestial Text they higher Teach.  
My Studied skill perhaps might so ascend  
In seeing deeds o'er Kings and Men impend:  
Tho' 'tis a Round no even influence shows,  
And like the World to Situation owes  
Much varied Seasons and distempered Times,  
The hot Meridian's source or colder Climes.  
That bolder Men too prone may admire  
Why the Creator's Conduct did conspire  
To form a World proves so unequal Great,  
Or Tempered like some headstrong acts of Fate.  
Let this thy Further Strict enquiry Stay,  
And where Art's helpless think 'tis best to pray.  
The Noble Dornland having heard how wise  
This Learned Man did things profound disguise,  
Allowed his Modesty no more to ask  
By giving Science a severer Task.  
Hoping that Powers above might overrule  
Thoughts that were too Incumbent on his Soul.  
Whilst thus from Polyaster he retires,  
And far beyond expression him admires.    

The six BOOK.  
The Argument.  

Essex by Dream his Father's Ghost behold,  
By which is told his Future Deeds and End,  
Chalgrave▪ Field, and subtle Hampd●n slain:  
Lansdowne fierce Day and Valiant Grenfields' fall,  
Waller on Roundway-Hill enforced to run,  
Hugon, by Spell from Sorc'ress, Faction aids,  
Gloucester relieved and Newberry's Bloody Fight.   

THE Sun past ending April's various Hours,  
Where Stars in Taurus' Influence growing Powers,  
Had to May's Gemini advanced his height,  
When Eyes far North behold no Cloudy Night:  
As Ph●●bus Beams dissolve Seas frozen there,  
And never set for some Months of his Year.  
Till when they rarely see the early Sun,  
Or how his shining hours on Dial's run.  
But to their homes, their Winter Graves, compelled,  
Till Night's long Cold by days increase expelled.  
An aidful Providence that helps to Tame  
Men that in Frozen Climes breed fiercest Flame:  
Which in our British Region did appear,  
As Winter checked War's speed this Fatal Year.  
In which, betime the King had Redding lost,  
And could not that prevent with bloody Cost.  
From whence the haughty Houses thought to raise  
Further Achievements to their Army's Praise.  
Though in their Conduct and their Counsels were  
Divided Factions moving in each Sphere.  
Whilst some, from sad effects of Mischiefs past,  
Seemed less propense to forward others haste.  
Which Sense the Earl, tho' Redding then possessed,  
Found to lie heavy on his troubled Breast.  
Who by Success could not so swell his Mind,  
As moderate thoughts no room in him did find.  
Besides his Soul was more Appalled to see  
The Hand of Heaven his open Enemy.  
As in his Camp Contagious 
* A great Plague in the Parliament Army soon after the Surrender of Redding.  Plague had killed  
Numbers that late his Hardy Legions filled.  
Nor could their Loudest Priests by Prayer obtain,  
That Heaven should cease th' Infection these had slain.  
Which much their grieved Gen'ralls' Heart oppressed,  
His Army Lessened thus and hopes depressed,  
Of being Improved by Soldier Repute,  
And popular Fame which his Soul would promote.  
These Thoughts, which on his Mind had fixed their weight,  
By sleeps soft aid he hoped to abate.  
Which Night invites, as Nature's Time of Cure,  
When Souls, less easy, waking sense endure.  
And their Essential Attributes enlarge,  
As Sleep the body's Clog does most discharge.  
Whilst from the boundless working of the Mind,  
Souls seem in bodies to Live unconsined.  
Now had the Earl Reposed some hours of Night,  
As Stars ascending reached their Midnight Height:  
And Gloomy Meteors had Condensed the Air,  
Whence Forms, some Judge, do Thicker outsides wear:  
Or mode when Spirits their thin extensions Hide,  
And in contracted shapes their being's guide.  
Or Ghosts assume, as Frightful Stories tell,  
Bodies resembling such in Graves do dwell:  
Which Phantoms much this Chief afflicted then,  
Dreaming on Battles past and dying Men:  
Some War deploring with their Latest breath,  
Others the quarrel Blamed at point of Death.  
Or charged their Loss upon his popular Gild,  
That first Allured the Blood was after spilt.  
Besides which Vision, to his greatest dread,  
He dreamt of Graves at Keinton-field of Dead:  
Which like to Mighty Tombs of Old remain,  
When Hills of Earth did Cover heaps of Slain.  
And in Idea next his Soul had sight  
Of Brandsords day, and Redding siercer sight;  
Doubting lest Angry Ghosts should near him wait  
To scare his Soul who caused their body's Fate.  
At which his Inward Horrors did Arise,  
Seen by his Mind without her bodies Eyes.  
Then sleeping Starts, next fears his sleep to break,  
Lest his Souls dream should fright him worse awake.  
As thus he lay perplexed with various thought,  
Fancies All-forming Power had Figured brought  
His Father's Person, much in looks and Mien,  
And Martial habit like what his had been.  
His Beaver pierced with shot, as 'twas that time,  
When he in London formed his daring Crime;  
And in his haughty rage and passion Strove  
To force his Queen's Imperial Power and Love.  
Which Gild, as if acknowledged ere he spoke,  
Seemed on his brow impressed and paler look.  
And next he uttered to his Son this Sense;  
Take from me dead my surest Penitence:  
Since Fame Stands well confirmed that Spirits walk,  
And Organed, of this World and tother, talk.  
And know I come to bid thee soon decline  
Th'Ambitious Steps that were too Lofty Mine.  
When Phaeton like I did attempt to rise,  
Yet in the offer fell the scorn of eyes.  
Much blood thou'st spilt and I had done the same,  
Had not the Power of Justice quenched my Flame.  
Else had Crowds faithful proved, no Armed hand  
Could have Rule boldier changed within this land.  
As much perhaps thy popular Soul would do,  
When Giddy Vulga●● shall resist thee too.  
More Battles thou wilt sight and then resign  
Thy Power to Factions that Supplanted Thine.  
Who after Aided by some Stepdams' Art,  
Shall by quick Poison kill thy Stubborn heart.  
At which he stopped, and Tears profusely shed.  
To whom his Son, in Trance, thus thought he said.  
O Hapless Father in your Ghost to come,  
And next your Fate declare how Stars me doom.  
That from your pure Existence I should find  
How separate Souls Paternally are kind.  
Then Thinks he kneeling did his Blessing pray,  
And wished that Souls might oftener find their way  
From death's recesses, and Teach men to see  
Their bad deeds past and future misery.  
Next Thought he strove t'embrace his Father's knees,  
Whilst like to Air repressed his figure flees:  
Or as the Gloomy Horrors of the Night  
Vanish with dreams at days approaching Light.  
Thus he awaked, and soon revolved in thought:  
The sad concern his slumbers to him brought.  
With Visions that did dreadfully deter  
His further Heightening this destructive War,  
Which Nourished Factions that might soon conspire  
To lay him Low, and raise their Creatures higher.  
Whence Peace he wished, tho' far removed from Men,  
Might, as the Souls 
* Poetically said to be the God less of Piety and Justice.  A●●rea, come again.  
Yet feared Heaven's wrath was easier to assuage,  
Then the stern Houses full determined rage.  
Tho' that rough Medium he resolved to Try,  
As Time gave Calmer opportunity.  
Till when on other Causes he could lay  
The Motives did his Martial flame delay.  
Mean while the King, that wondrous year of War,  
Which adds to Fame's Heroic Calendar,  
Had weighed maturely in his Prudent mind,  
What against his Active Foes was best designed:  
Knowing the Voting Houses had decreed,  
That their Vast Force should yet more daring spread:  
The North with Mighty Yorkshir's far extent  
Committed to the Warlike management  
Of th●t Lord Fairfax and his Valiant Son,  
Who, by their Conduct there had gained Renown.  
These however held, in Soul too bravely Just  
For such who then allured them to this trust  
Infusing subtle Notions of a Cause,  
That well disguised seemed to support the Laws;  
Strenuously did their Friends and Interest guide  
IT Oppose within that Sphere the Royal side;  
Against whom the brave Newcastle did appear,  
Generous of mind and resolute in War.  
Whose high repute did many Hero's raise,  
That, next his Acts, on Story fix their praise.  
But none surpassing his admired Ally  
Heroick 
a Brother to the then Earl of Devonshire.  Cavendish, in whose prowess Lie  
Deeds that Fame's wings must as her Trophe's bear,  
And verse that could his Grandeur full declare.  
Nor less the Senate's party did Imbroil  
The West of England's rich and pop'lous soil.  
For which attempt they Active Waller chose,  
A Knight whose Zeal could mighty things propose,  
And whom their Votes did Celebrate so high,  
As he then Marched their Western Excellency.  
That far as waves there wash the British shore,  
He might all vanquish by their Haughty power.  
And was their requisite expedient thought,  
Since 
b Who were both Slain as they led● their Cornish Countrymen. The first of whom Sir Bevil Greenville, being killed at Lansdown, as is afterwards▪ mentioned in this Poem; and the other Sir Nicholas Slanning, dying of a wound that he réceived at the taking of Bristol.  Greenville, Slanning, had stout Cornish brought,  
That won at Stratton-field a mighty day,  
Which Stories with their Future worth display.  
And by their Prince more grateful understood,  
Since this, of his Successes, cost least blood.  
Whose Temperate Spirit was like Heaven's designed,  
In being to Offending Mortals kind.  
Yet hearts so hardened had his Rugged Foes,  
That they durst Royal Grace with power oppose:  
Howe'er the discomposed, or cold delay,  
Of Timing Essex, would their Fury stay.  
Whilst powers conjoined from other Camps appeared,  
With such the Vig'lant Houses had declared  
From his must be detached, and by Chiefs led  
Whom they less doubted than this Peer their head.  
And did unto Campaigns near Oxford guide,  
The well-formed Numbers of their daring Side.  
Tho' Fame and Rumour used their swiftest Wing  
To speed the bold Alarm to the King.  
With these, a Leader, subtle Hampden joined,  
Vast. in his Parts and deep contriving Mind.  
Who by his Conduct and his Sword thought ●●t  
To aid the Quarrel Patroned by his Wit.  
And more t'Inflame his fierce Assistants then,  
Did thus express: If with our Armed Men  
Reason avails, or Maxims that have found  
Where fast Designs their strong assurance ground;  
Know these are ours, with Swords that only can  
Sever Prerogative Bonds Infesting Man.  
Howe'er such Gordian Knots Miraculous reach,  
From Thrones to Subjects, as some vainly teach:  
Or speciously the Lawyer's Brain might find,  
When Courts the People's Purse had theirs designed.  
This ere our Senate sat, I first withstood,  
And held it then a Cause worth English Blood.  
Tho' now unsafe at Wrongs redressed to stop,  
Till surplusage of Power we further Lop.  
That like the Limbs of some far-spreading Tree,  
Shaded too long our growing Liberty.  
Which resolute force will perfect and design  
That do the Fox's part and Lions join.  
Till when the Houses wisely must disown,  
How Level they intent to lay the Throne.  
On which account, this day I welcome here,  
And full resolved with you in Arms appear.  
Whilst from this 
* Chalgrave-Field where Mr John Hampden was first said to be in Arms for the Parliament by raising the Militia in order to suppress the King's Commission of Array, and in that Field afterwards received his Death's wound.  Field our hopes improved must spring,  
Where late I prosperous Led against the King  
The Houses bold Militia, whence first grew,  
'Twixt him and us, the Quarrel we pursue.  
Thus he expressed, like one that could Cajole  
With powerful words the Soldiers daring Soul.  
This Speech scarce ended Rupert did appear,  
With Troops well Form to join ●ierce Battle there:  
Swift, as the Trumpet's sound, his Prowess led,  
And in that haste saw scattered Foes lie dead.  
The Orange Scarst, the cognizance made then  
Of Resolute Essex and his Fight Men,  
Were in their Gaudy Habits forced to run,  
And turn their Tawny backs against the Sun,  
Wishing that Parthian-like they now could fly,  
And by back-shooting kill their Enemy.  
Which Stratagem to Rome's bold Legions brought  
D●s●sters as that People flying fought.  
〈◊〉 how should these act any Conducts Part,  
When headlong Fear had first surprised their Heart:  
〈◊〉 close pursued, as all must needs agree,  
Where Rupert's Valour forced his Victory.  
And thus confused unto their Camp they stray,  
Where Essex, hoping better Tidings, lay.  
Hampden, amongst the rest, the Field had left,  
By deadly wounds almost of Life bereft.  
Few days him end, whilst much his Party grieved  
That Fate, of such a Grandee, them bereaved:  
Lest from Death's haste they but in Embryo find  
The change of State which his strong Brain designed:  
Or left unmodelled by deceased 
* The ●…ousie Disease, of which he was reported, about that time to die o●▪  Pym,  
Who subtly to their Cause Intrigued esteem.  
Tho'by a homlier Fate the latter fell.  
Whom Lice by Legions slew as many tell.  
So Herod full of Pop'lar Vogue and Pride,  
Attacked by these most vulgar Vermin died.  
Rupert, successful thus in this Campagne,  
Where Foes thought Fame by Cavalry to gain,  
Which on their side more numerous did consist,  
Had they been Soul'd as boldly to resist:  
Such dread diffused through all their mounted Force,  
As long they feared to fight such Loyal Horse.  
And did in Essex Soul improve delay,  
Caused by disgnst and Fortune of that day.  
Which gave the King apt Leisure to dispose  
Embodied Powers against his Western Foes:  
Whom Active Waller had combined with care,  
More popular now then Essex in this War.  
The Noble Hertford, sit for Royal Trust,  
And Int'rested in those parts to Adjust  
His Sovereign's Cause, did from an Honest Fame  
Deserve, by him unsought, a Generals Name.  
Little he had of Wars experience known,  
And therefore did refuse to guide alone.  
T'assist whose conduct by the King was chose  
His Newphew Maurice Daring unto Foes:  
Great Rupert s Brother, which enough does tell  
How like to him his Prowess did excel.  
G●…ville, to whom brave 
* Who in the breaking out of the Rebellion, being forced from his Habitation in Somersetshire, Retired for his Safety privately into Cornwall, where he was not only worthily received by the Chief of that Country, but as they Armed for the King entrusted to Command them.  Hopton did withdraw,  
When first Rebellion had Infringed the Law,  
Worthy of Lineage and conspicuous known  
〈◊〉 Generous deeds that Cornish hearts had won;  
And blood best valued in that fertile Soil,  
Who Gladly joined with his, their Warlike Toil:  
And had with high repute stout Numbers raised  
To add to those at Stratton-field were praised.  
Their Country cleared from Foes, they next prepare  
For their King's Cause in distant climes to War.  
And with due sense of Hopton's Merit, gave  
Consent that he Supreme Command should have.  
Since he, from home removed, had for them fought,  
And by his Conduct proved Advantage brought.  
Soon did their Monarch's Summons them direct  
Where they by Hertford Maurice should be met:  
And with their conjoined power of Foot and Horse  
Oppose th' Impetuous growth of waller's Force.  
Near Chard, a Ville of Fertile Somersetshire,  
Their joyful Juncture was, and echoed there.  
So when kind streams in one Joint Current slow,  
Their Waves embrace and sounds of Gladness show.  
The Royal Power by Infantry Improved  
Of Gallant Cornish, in bold Order Moved  
Unto Campaigns the Enemy to Find,  
Who then on Lansdown-top his Camp designed.  
Uneven Ridges do that Hill Surround,  
By Waller chose for his Advantage ground.  
Th' Assent and Avenus, with care Possessed  
By Files and Squadrons he reputed best.  
Whilst Posted thus some Troops he does Employ  
To Skirmish so as they might Foes decoy:  
Bidding that they when charged should soon retreat,  
And Tempt pursuers on to their defeat.  
Assuring them that on the Royal side  
Were Chiefs whose Courage Dangers so defied,  
As sometimes in pursuit of Glory they  
Had scorned in fear of Stratagem to stay.  
The Zealous Haslerig, on waller's part,  
Does first attempt to prove his Warlike Art  
Armed Cap-a-pe his Militants appeared,  
Who'd think they shock of Foes or Guns had feared:  
Or that their Iron shapes should not endure  
The Charge of such whose Breasts were less secure.  
Since for them better than the Royal Side  
Fortune did Wars Accoutrements provide.  
But howe'er Fenced, their Bulks less hard they find  
Then Bosoms that Enclosed the harder Mind.  
And thus the Royal Cavalry that day  
Through Armed Squadrons did enforce their way:  
Whose Foes confused, with a precipitant haste,  
In spite of Orders given, retired too fast.  
So hard it is in Wars Exploits to find  
men's practics to their Theories adjoined.  
The Royal Chiefs perceiving that the Foe  
Withdrew with loss and in disorder too:  
Judged that occasion, Fortune's useful Guide,  
Would add Achievements to their Gallant side;  
But lest they should obstructed find their way,  
Where opposite Files in Pass or Ambush lay:  
The Cornish Foot, with Greenville at their head,  
And 
* This General mention, intended to include an 〈◊〉 P●…ons as are most 〈◊〉 in Story, i i● this a● 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 of this Poem so to be understood that Prolixity may be avoided in repeating of proper Manes.  Chiefs whose Deeds in Fame's Records are read,  
Did in despite of disadvantage Ground  
Repel their Foes, where Posted they were found.  
Who upward unto waller's Camp withdrew,  
Like Deer that to their Herd from Hunters flew.  
Their Stout Pursuers after them ascend,  
And on the Hill Embattell'd boldly stand.  
The Royal Horse, the Avenu's now cleared,  
To Second Cornish Gallantry appeared.  
But e'er their Squadrons were to Order brought,  
Their Van had waller's Force successless fought.  
Here Valiant 
a Sir George Loer, a Gallant Gentleman, then Major to the Regiment of Col. Thomas Howard, since Earl of Berks, Slain in this Battle.  Loer left a Crimson flood,  
And many with him slain of English Blood.  
Besides such Numbers that from Death or Wound,  
In Wars Memoirs Conspicuously are found.  
But Youthful. 
b That the Lord Dencourt was found Dead as is here described is known from History.  Dencourt for whose Noble fall  
Fame does, from Verse, peculiar value call;  
Appropriate to the Manner of his End,  
Which Truth does in these Measures recommend,  
Wrapped in the Enemy's Colours dead he lay,  
That he won for his Winding-Sheet that day:  
Ho H●roe could in Bed of Honour die  
Trophied more Glorious by Wars destiny.  
The Fight renewed, each side by Prowess Try  
To force their stout Embodied Enemy.  
Nor would they Leisure to their Guns afford,  
More forward to destroy with Pike and Sword.  
Waller who this Campaign had first Possessed,  
Some Forces so disposed to Aid the rest,  
As what from sight or order could accrue,  
He judged was fully his advantage now.  
The Cornish Infantry that long had stood,  
And would no Foot withdraw to save their blood;  
His best reserves their Legions next Assail,  
And against their Valour something too prevail.  
Greenville disdaining this, an Ensign takes,  
And fixing it in Earth by it he makes  
His dauntless stand, resolving there to die;  
Or Live approved for signal Loyalty.  
Whilst Fame to give his Death a lasting date  
Perpetuates his 
* By which is intimated both the Heroic end of this Gallant Person, and the Noble T●tle of Baron of Lansdown given to his Posterity by King Charles 〈◊〉 Second.  Glory in his Fate.  
Whose Trusty Militants when they beheld  
Their Loved Chiefs fall, Fury revenge compelled:  
Until his Death retaliated by Blows,  
And the ground strowed with Carcases of Foes.  
Pity that vulgar Gallantries should be  
So sparingly conveyed by History,  
As but their General mention does appear,  
Instead of single Rooms of Glory there.  
Whilst Partial Birth, Monopolising Fame,  
Contracts Man's value to the highest Name;  
Leaving the Low, howe'er by Nature Brave,  
To go without Encomium to their Grave.  
Thus War, the mean destroyed, in heaps conceals,  
And but their sudden ends, like Plague, reveals.  
Till setting Sun both sides prolonged their sight,  
Tho' waller's, as appeared, first wished for Night.  
Who to be safe the next succeeding day,  
The Time of darkness chose to March away.  
And as in haste, some Thought, had left behind  
Huge Loads of Powder: whether so designed  
By Craft or Fate, few ●…ellers rightly know;  
Or from what cause did Burst that Fatal blow.  
Sooner than Moment did the Flame arise,  
And seemed to pierce with pointed fire the Skies.  
Like a vast Pyramid its Bottom spread,  
And left within that Compass many dead.  
Which Sulphurous force transformed their Persons so,  
As they did Blacker die then Ethiopes show.  
Some Blasted lived in Bulks to wonder swelled,  
And with a sad Amazement were beheld.  
Others survived, tho' Maimed in every part:  
Who'd not for their sakes curse the wicked Art  
That first these seeds of Mischief had designed  
For a destructive fuel to Mankind.  
By this fierce Blow in this disastrous Night,  
Hopton had Perished too or Lost his sight:  
Had not Heavens Aid the Powders force withheld,  
Tho' scorched his Visage and his Limbs beheld.  
Which Griefs with Magnitude of Mind he Bore,  
Till Time his Pristine Strength did full restore.  
This dire Mischance with other Motives gave  
Occasion to the Royalists to Leave  
That fatal surface, and their march intent  
Where due refreshments might their Toils befriend.  
T'ward the 
* A Large Borrough-Town in the Middle of Wiltshire.  Devises they assigned their way,  
When Waller who had feared their longer stay,  
Assumed new hopes, from Artifice or Fate,  
To vanquish them whom late he could not Beat.  
Close to their Rear, as Stars reached Midnight height,  
His Van he led the next ensuing Night:  
Judging that they, who had few hours before  
Repulsed at Lansdowne-field his stoutest power,  
Would least suspect that he did then pursue  
Their Marching Force from which his Lately flew.  
Whilst to conceal what by design he meant,  
By Trumpets sound his Martial Compliment  
He first to Noble Hertford does convey,  
Since he as General had precedent sway:  
Next lets him know that if his Arms could bring  
The spacious West subjected to the King:  
e'er Sun did set he would that Value Stake,  
In 
a A Lordship that did belong to the Earl and therefore speciously Nominated by Waller, the better to disguise his intended design.  Cherston Fields if there he'd Battle make.  
The Earl to this with Modesty replied,  
That he by Challenge ne'er had him defied:  
Wherefore he wondered that in Waller's name,  
So Bravo like, this 
b By the Author of this Poem Personally observed, he being in Arms all the time of that Western Expedition.  message to him came.  
Hopton,  
With whom the Earl this Errand did debate,  
Tho' full of Malade from preceding fate,  
With clear Perception unto him declared  
That Guile should more than Swords of Foes be feared:  
Since War by wicked Maxim did allow,  
That ●raud Conductress might to Valour go;  
Besides all which impossible 'twould be,  
Should, to this proffer, his resolus agree;  
To move with wearied Foot a te●…us way,  
And Battle give in compass of one ●ay.  
This message Answered and they Marching on,  
Th' Insidious part of Waller soon was known:  
Who that they might not think his Army near,  
This Errand sent ere he Attacked their Rear:  
Which in few moments furiously he sought,  
And by a fierce surprise disorder brought  
Unto some Bodies on the Royal Part,  
Till better formed they Stood his force and Art  
Nor could they March unto the Post designed,  
But as they moving fought their Foe behind:  
And thus retreating they continued Fight,  
Till to Devises come by Evening Light.  
Soon as Arrived a Martial Court they held,  
Composed of such that for Conduct excelled:  
Debating how their Powers might there subsist,  
And orderly the Enemy resist.  
Whilst now in Crowds their Horse and Foot possessed  
The Town, too straight to yield them food or rest:  
Howe'er by fight and March they Harassed show,  
And were besides in Ammunion low.  
Which to repair and to detatch more Force,  
Determined 'twas that all their strength of Horse  
Should from the Town that Night make their retreat,  
Till Reinforcements they from Oxford meet.  
Hertford and Maurice with them marched away,  
When Hopton and such Chiefs behind did stay  
Whose Conduct best the Insantry could Guide,  
And by example Animate their side.  
Which, tho' alone, by Duplicate renown,  
Resolved to Conquer Foes and keep the Town.  
And had for several days Successful fought,  
Till want of powder to distress them brought:  
Which known to Waller soon his Stars he Blest,  
That thus Advantaged him to win the West,  
And Noblest Enemies his Captives see,  
Whence he'd Triumph by Parliament decree.  
This Exigent as Royalists deplored,  
And fruitlessly had searched for Powder stored,  
A Trusty 
* One Pierce an Inhabitant of the Devises, who discovered to t●● Lord Hopton where for some time he had hidden Powder.  Townsman makes himself their Guide  
Unto enough of his to aid their side.  
Provided thus, with bold Joy they defy  
By Peals of Shot the daring Enemy:  
And with recruited Fury Sallies make,  
Where Posted Foes they kill and Prisoners take.  
Scorning that Works their Valour should Confine,  
Who durst the Place defend without a Line.  
Waller who hoped that some Impending strait  
Would have enforced his Opposites to Treat,  
That he the Town by render might obtain:  
Now doubts he Trophies there designed in vain.  
When unto him his trusty Scouts declare;  
That Bodies of recruited Foes were near,  
By Princely Ma●rice and Brave Wilmot led:  
From whose Vancurriers they had swiftly fled  
Th'alarum taken, he withdraws his Force,  
Except some Parties of his Foot and Horse,  
Designed to Skirmish and amuse the Town,  
Lest there too soon 'twere known that he was gone.  
Few Miles he marched till to a Hill he came,  
Whose Downy Surface men do 
* Called from the Village Adjacent Round-way-Hill or Down, but since by way of Joque called Run-away-Hill, Alluding to the confused flight of the Rebels there.  Round-way name,  
Where speedily, as Order could admit,  
He did for Fight his strong Battalions sit.  
Rejoiced to see with what an eager Course  
His Foes arrived, tho' but Empowered by Horse.  
Concluding that his Cavalry and Foot,  
By joint Advantage would their Body's rout.  
Whilst Maurice, Wilmot so their Troops dispose,  
As by their Conduct first they come to Blows:  
And Ranks disperse that would resist their way,  
Till Flight they forced as their Swords numbers ●lay.  
Fiery Sir 
* Hazelrig a Zealous Republican.  Arthur, who, on Zeals account,  
Had thought all other Horoes to surmount:  
Or that Enthusiast in an Armed plight,  
Was terrible as Basilisk to sight;  
Proved that his Figure dwindled in that day,  
As on his Pegasus he flew away.  
And like a Fowl that guides the flying Train,  
Did routed Squadrons lead along the Plain.  
When some that hoped their soon escape to make  
By Steps that none in their pursuit would take:  
Down the Hill's steep, from Miracle of Fear,  
A Gallop took and broke-necked perished there.  
The Field being cleared of Horse, the Foot remained,  
That with some Volleys had a while maintained  
Their daring Files, till hopeless to resist,  
By Horse forsaken that should them assist:  
Their Heels, instead of Arms, for safety tried,  
But soon were Captives to the Conquering side.  
This signal victory was the dearer got  
As with Foes killed Fate did to death allot  
Some Personages whom Story does rehearse,  
Enough perspicuous without aid from Verse:  
Yet here for them and for Brave 
* The reason for Introducing this Character is so fully give●… in the Third Book, as it needs not be here repeated.  Dornland's fall  
My Muse does for a Tear-Heroique call.  
He that had raised Example to the height  
Bydeeds that Generous Loyalty complete:  
Unhappy 'twas that his brave end should be  
No stop unto his Nation's Misery.  
Or that the Crisis of his Life's last hour  
Should imply Fate unto his Sovereign's power.  
Which his King's Lips Prophetically declared:  
And from Polyasters' Science had been feared.  
But now as if the Destinies reversed  
Events, which some Prognostics had rehearsed:  
By the King's Power was op'lent Bristol won,  
And round strong Gloucester next his Leaguer known.  
Tho' much admired by discerning Men,  
Why that Town's Siege was undertaken then:  
When Rumour had on London fear Impressed  
From Waller beaten and subdued the West:  
The Factious Senate too divided there,  
And did their Cause and Person's safety fear.  
Their Party wavering or inclined to yield,  
Instead of raising numbers for the Field.  
Essex demurring, and his Army weak,  
And no March, if recruited, cared to take.  
Till Glocesters' bold Defence their Courage raised,  
And 
* By whose Conduct Gloucester was preserved, tho' afterwards he had cause to repent it being persecuted by his own Party for not complying with their Antimonarchical Designs if not suspected to have remorse of Conscience for opposing of his Sovereign.  Massey her Defender loudly praised.  
Unhappy Prince whom Stars had thither brought,  
That by no future Aid repaired the fault.  
So Hannibal before Tarentum stayed,  
And lost Rome's Conquest by time there delayed.  
Nor was then Glocester's bold defence alone  
The King's Misfortune but Hull's stronger Town.  
Before which Brave Newcastle then did lie  
Besieger by one Fatal Destiny.  
His Number great and the vast Northern Clime  
No less than Western vanquished at that time.  
And but his Enemy's worsted Relics left  
To man this place of other Aid bereft:  
As than Lord Fairfax and his Valiant Son  
For their last refuge fled unto this Town:  
By Nature strong and fortified by Wall,  
That seemed for Scaling-Ladders, built too tall.  
Famed Troy, though Neptune's Fabric said to be,  
Not like to Hull did find support from Sea.  
Where through vast Sluices Humber's Waves may run,  
And the Adjacent parts to distance drown.  
So strongly did rough Neptune's Trident here  
Against King Charles his Sceptre Leavy War.  
Whilst the Renowned Newcastle soon beheld  
His Trenches, Bulwarks, Tents, with Streams o'erwhelmed.  
Until his Camp, thus made a watery Lake,  
He did, with loss of Men and Time forsake.  
Which Sufferance withered his famed Army's Flower,  
And former Conquests gained by Warlike Power.  
Who else Victorious might have Eastward gone,  
And, with his Sovereign joined, have London won.  
When Stars from Fate's Similitude decreed,  
That both at hapless Leaguers should be stayed.  
But what the Counsels of that Time allege  
For undertaking Hull and Glocesters' Siege:  
My Muse no Descants here presumes to make,  
Since from Event appears their gross mistake.  
Which gave to London's Senate wished-for scope,  
From their Disasters to erect their Hope.  
Not doubting but, from them diffused, 'twould bring  
Increase of Fury to Oppose their King.  
Tho' they perceived, amongst the Crowds of Men,  
The Fervour of the most abated then:  
Wearied by War, or dubious whether Right  
Stood on that part which them allured to Fight.  
When 
* By whose Character I suppose the Reader may judge that the Infamous Hugh Peter, who may not be improperly termed the most Artificial Canter of that time's Pulpit-Traytors was Intended; 〈◊〉 he has the Author's consent so to understand this Nominal.  Hugon did to Vulgar Minds apply  
His Tempting Zeal and strenuous Industry.  
Hugon, who in this Story room must find,  
From Comic part and Tragic badly Joined:  
Whose Artifice could men to Fight dispose,  
But Laughed at all that died in Field by Blows.  
No Levite called, tho' oft in Pulpits known,  
Where Don-Quixot he played without a Gown.  
With Patriots of that Time in high esteem,  
And ruling Females Amorous of them.  
But how his Genius to this height arose  
My Muse by this ensuing Wonder shows.  
'Tis told a Witch, on Puritan Begot,  
Came from New-England to aid 〈◊〉  
Comely in Figure, tho' se●… Stories 〈◊〉  
That Dames of Magic did in Form ex●…:  
As if that Venus Pluto's Lips to spite,  
By Course Amours attr●…ed his delight.  
Demure in Speech and 〈◊〉 was her Mene,  
And on her dies; a 〈◊〉 where Vaile was seen.  
At distance Z●… did her Beams admire,  
When told that 〈◊〉 could ●ove and Cant Inspire.  
And when the Sorc'ress would the Harlot play,  
On him she doted that could Faithless pray.  
Near London Suburbs was her then abode,  
To whom by search had Hugon found the Road.  
Admitted to her close Apartment there,  
Her Beauty he adjudged above compare:  
And, as 'tis thought, Charmed by her taking sight,  
His Nerve was risen above usual height.  
Busy as Sibyl soon he her perceives,  
Inscribing Scripture Texts on divers Leaves.  
And as she moved her wan and words did speak,  
Around her head a trembling flight they take:  
And when descended on her Table find  
The Order which for them she first designed.  
Wonder, above what Sibyls Leaves could show,  
If this on Fame's account be granted true.  
Not many words this admired Charmer used,  
Till kissing him she Love and Zeal infused:  
Letting him know that she'd improve his Sense,  
By bold Intrigues and Pulpit Impudence:  
Since well she knew his Soul did little care  
Tho' retrograde to Heaven he vented Prayer.  
Then takes a Leaf on which a Text was wrote,  
On purpose Charmed his Faction to promote:  
And with a tickling whisper next infused  
The Spiritual Gibberish by him after used.  
Which on his Knees 'tis said he did receive,  
To show th'Adorement he th'Enchantress gave.  
His Congee taken, the ensuing day  
He broached in Pulpit a new Canting way.  
Which being Inspired by the Devil's Wit,  
Some Insides did of Men and Women fit.  
Whence fervent Matrons soon for fight designed  
Their Husbands, whilst to Whore they stayed behind.  
Nor did the Virgins, with a Blush that Time,  
Present their Gifts to aid the Public Crime.  
Who with a shameless Confidence declaimed  
Against all such from War would be reclaimed.  
This Female Vogue, and Moneys loved Command,  
Soon did incite the Soldiers Armed hand,  
And London Legions to the rest adjoined:  
As Essex them for Glocesters Aid designed.  
Who now his hope, tho' lately drooped does raise,  
Of Meriting by Conduct renewed Praise.  
Skippon, he Led, with Chiefs of bold Import,  
Rounded by Guns, that like a moving Fort  
His Army did in wide Campagnes appear,  
And Fruitless Charged by 
* By which is Intimated the Attacque that was given by the King's Cavalry, Commanded by Prince Rupert, to my Lord of Essex his Army marching to relieve Gloucester near Stow an open Part of that Country.  Rupert when met there.  
Too strong for Let, the Earl still forward goes,  
Till Glocesters' Joy his bold Arrival shows.  
The King when thus approached his Foes he saw,  
By Night, does from that Town, his Force withdraw:  
Fatal that Night, as Elements did show  
By Thunder, Storms, and Winds that loudest blow.  
This grand Relief offected by this Peer,  
Return to London next employed his Care.  
And how his Warlike Caution might contrive  
That he might thither without Fight arrive.  
Lest other Actions should his Fame impair,  
ere he received, for this, Applauses there.  
When Stars decreed, that for a Bloody Day,  
He should in Newberry's Field his Files Array.  
Where overtaken by the Royal Power,  
Both sides engaged as rose the Morning hour.  
Profufely Blood was soon on each part shed,  
No Verse can here enough lament the Dead:  
Amongst whom Canaruan, Valour's Glory, fell,  
And Faukland by the Muses Loved so well.  
Obliging Sunderland here also slain:  
What Field like this from Noble Blood bears Stain?  
The Earl, amongst his Dead some Brave had lost,  
Tho' this Advantage much his side could boast  
That they with cheaper Metal had supplied  
Their Cause, against which opposed the Nobless died.  
So few of their High Station than were known  
That would in Field the Houses Quarrel own.  
Never more poised was Battle by Event,  
Or Armies known more hours of day had spent  
With equal Prowess, so hard 'tis to know,  
When English Valours Fight, which bravest do.  
Both sides in Warlike form appeared next day,  
When Essex first withdrew and marched his way.  
Nor did the Roy'lists hold it prudent then  
To tempt him, in Retreat, to fight again.  
Weighing the Order in which he withdrew,  
Themselves o'retoyled with March and fight too.  
On each part yielded that they could no more  
At that time Combat as they did before.  
O Fatal Soil that must next year contain  
A Second Battle, and more English slain,  
Where Essex did his rallied Ensigns lead:  
Better that he o'er furthest Seas had fled,  
Or died by Shipwreck on the Cornish Shore,  
When Treaty saved his there 
* A very Important Remark, the Earl having left his Army in a Straight in Cornwall he took Shipping for London and left Skippon behind him to Treat for the Army of which the Infantry had Terms leaving Arms behind them, their Horse having broken through one Wing of the King's Army: These very men fought resolutely, above others, soon after at the Second Newberry Fight as is intimated here, and in Fight were heard to express their desire to revenge the King's success in Cornwall.  deserted Power:  
Then with bold Legions, so reprieved, display  
Rebellions fury here another day.  
Yet this Last Battle, Tho' uncurbed his Sword,  
No Future Trophy did to him afford:  
Or Lessen the Disgust that was expressed  
Against his Late Misfortune in the West.  
Whence the Imperious Houses did decree  
That he, their wars first Guide, removed should be.  
And other Conduct chosen to Enhance  
Deeds, which they Judged he slowly did Advance;  
Howe'er his Faction did with theirs Comply.  
In being their Sovereign's Common Enemy.  
But how Intrigued their Parties and Designs,  
Would tedious render this brief Poems Lines:  
Wherefore we must from Passages descend,  
And that may give our Story closer end.    

The SEVENTH BOOK.  
The Argument.  

The Houses their new Modelled Army raise,  
And Fairfax, tho' but Knight, their General made.  
Cromwell's bold rise and Counsels verse relates.  
Direful Events the Nation apprehends.  
love's passion and concern with War Intrigue.  
The King by Furious Storm does Leicest●…r win.  
Fairfax to Oxford does his Army Guide:  
Which Action the King's Northern March diverts.   

ESSEX removed, the Houses soon decree  
That Fairfax should their Captain General be.  
Not mean his Birth, of Disposition sit  
To be subservient to their ruling Wit.  
A Complaisance they did believe Improved,  
As they had the more haughty Earl removed.  
By Martial deeds this Knight had gained renown,  
And for the Houses was Successful known.  
Implicitly he could their rule Obey,  
Which most Endeared them to his Fight way.  
Whose Brain more with the Soldiers part conspired  
Then Ends by which to Factions Men Aspired.  
Or how Presbitery's Interest was waned,  
As Independency Improvement Gained  
Both in the Houses and the Arms Sense,  
Who did their high Caresses then dispense  
Unto aspiring Cromwell's growing Name,  
The darling Leader of Fanatique Flame.  
Poor had he Lived, altho' Gently born,  
His Interest despicable and sorlorn:  
Whilst his Life past, to Shame had vicious been,  
Till he, by Covert Zeal, Transformed his Sin.  
And now' tho but lieutenant-general made,  
By craft was more than Fairfax soon obeyed.  
And had this new formed Army so Cajoled,  
As all therein seemed for his purpose Soul'd.  
Thus was the Man, and thus his figure rose,  
Above what story, most Prodigious shows.  
But how he made progression to this height  
The Mediums tell, which briefly we'll recite.  
Essex discarded by that Factions Power,  
Of which then Cromwell was esteemed the Flower,  
This Subtle Man to Grandees next proposed  
How Martial Force might surer be composed:  
If from their Numbers they'd Scelectly take  
Men that by zeal their valours fiercer make:  
And with them, so devoted, Legions fill,  
Prepared by Conscience for their sakes to kill.  
Declaring how Persuasion hardens fight,  
And how men Motived so, all perils slight:  
Tho' Stetes Subverted are or Thrones removed,  
The Action seems to them by Heaven approved:  
Who deem it Sublime Glory to destroy  
Profaner Rule which Mortals would enjoy.  
Nor feazibly will this our war proceed,  
If Hardened conscience does not foremost Lead.  
Each man is more than man whom that Inspires;  
The Spiritual gideon's which no money hires.  
And tells how fruitlessly we conquest sought  
As men for us of hireling Genius fought.  
Who but for Muster pay to Fields make haste,  
And would Wars hours in Plenteous quarters waste.  
The Armed Drones that national Treasure Spend,  
Without a sting of Spirit to Contend:  
Let Votes, Instead of them, Bold Godly choose  
To Fight our Battles, and our Cause espouse.  
Nor think that Militants, with softer Flame,  
Can the Fierce Honour of the King's side Tame.  
This zealots' Speech, like Tinder's catching fire,  
Did with the Houses servant votes conspire:  
Which by a 
* Their selfdenying Ordinance so called, because it allowed no person of either House to have Military Command, tho' purposely formed to lay aside the Earl of Essex and some others 〈◊〉 him: notwithstanding which Cromwell was so favoured as by particular dispensation to serve under Fairfax.  self-denial named decree  
Ordained their Army should new modelled be:  
O'er which, tho' Fairfax General we find,  
His Power to Cromwell ward-like was designed.  
The Knight but factions Nominal allowed,  
Whilst Cromwell rose the Phoenix of their Crowd.  
Fatal Conjunction, as their Actions Tell,  
That direful on their King and Nation fell.  
But how their Crimes arrived unto that height,  
Our sorrowful Measures will in Course recite.  
Well did the Commons House Approve the Choice  
Of this new Model and in hope rejoice  
Events they judged from such a Power would spring,  
That they held keenest formed against the King.  
And tho' in t'other House, the sitting Peers  
Had long concurred with Voting Commoners:  
And had to Lapse of Honour vilely been,  
Abetters of this Wars designed Sin;  
Yet in this Juncture had this Act withstood,  
From sense perhaps of their Neglected Blood,  
By which the Furious Commons did require  
The Knight's Advancement and his Hardy Squire.  
Howe'er unto their Essex thought disgrace,  
And Peerage then denied a General's Place.  
Thus did Inferior Votes the Higher Sway,  
As Lords did Commons, in effect, Obey.  
And now this Novel Army does prepare  
To raise their Faction by Succeeding war.  
For whose Success, were many prayers said,  
By such as held themselves most Sanctified.  
Tho' Prayers, hopes, wishes, had their different Crime,  
As London's Juncto varied at that time:  
Where for disbanded Essex's party's sake,  
The Presbyterians high disgust did Take.  
And from Regret could Inwardly Scarce pray  
For Independents on their fight day.  
Lest that sierce Party, on a Martial Score,  
Should end what Tother Left undone before.  
Whilst highly Fairfax and his chiefs Caress  
Their Soldiers to attain by Arms Success.  
And with Bold confidence their March designed  
Where e'er they might the Royal Army find.  
When rumours from this Movement every where  
Busied the thinking Heart and watchful ear;  
As men did Problems and conclusions draw  
From what they heard, or Judged their Souls foresaw.  
Whence various Expectations filled the Mind  
As to the King or Houses they Inclined.  
Or did their forward Emulations guide  
By Gallantries observed on either side.  
Nor did some Beauteous of their Sex decline  
Glory, which love to Valour could Assign:  
If not by Speech their Rivaldries declare,  
As they did Hero's Martial Acts compare.  
When in Flavira's Character and Deeds  
Was passion found that womans' Soul exceeds.  
Brave Lyle she Loved, as is declared before,  
And thought it Heroine valour to explore  
His Fame in war, the Jewel of her heart,  
Like which she Judged no Hero's valiant part.  
To whom a visit Rosaline now makes,  
Of whose bright figure verse precedent speaks,  
Pensive in Mind as she for Lucas sake,  
Did prospect of wars fatal dangers take,  
And thought she did that Instant him behold  
Leading his Troops too desperately bold,  
And how his wounded Horse did three times bound,  
And threw him off as it fell dead to ground.  
Wishing that, from such chance, Flavira might  
Lesle prompt her Lover's Soul to dangerous fight.  
And now Flavira as if she perceived  
The Sentiments that Rosaline had grieved:  
By complaisance and General converse,  
From what Fame did in Town or Court disperse,  
A while directs her Language and her mean,  
And seemed without Caprice a Lover then:  
Or that she had on Glory solely Laid  
The Pride of Passion which her Soul obeyed.  
Reflecting on the Exigent of Times,  
And how Improved by men's degenerate Crimes:  
From which Mean Source the Chills, to valour spring,  
As some relentingly assist their King.  
Tender perhaps as Ladies please to Fear,  
That would their Hero's Softer Toils endears  
And think 'tis Glorious if their choicer Beams  
Do from Campaignes' withhold their Lover's flames.  
Know Rosaline, says she, Flavira shall  
Never, her Lover's honour, so Enthrall.  
Let it her Emulation rather be,  
To heighten others by his Gallantry.  
What verse can tell how Rosaline was moved,  
When these words heard, whose Soul more calmly Loved.  
Posed, as she would her apt return now fit  
Unto Flavira's speech, and sprightly wit;  
And could not but with troubled mind explain  
Her Sense which in these words did utterance gain.  
Highly your valo●… Madam is Confessed  
By my heart's def'rence to what yours expressed:  
Whereby your Admired Loyalty appears  
Unto our Sovereign, whom my Soul revers.  
Nor shall e'er my Affection Arm withdraw  
That can in Field his Rebel Subjects Aw.  
Begging of Heaven that Titulary Stars  
May Loyal Lives defend throughout these Wars.  
And that the Jewel Life which Love would save,  
May not from Bloody power a Period have.  
Little this Speech did with Flavira weigh,  
Whose eye was then removing to Survey  
A painted Story, where the pencils Art  
Did her Great Hero's deeds to Life Impart.  
And where with proud delight she did behold  
Fields, in which Lyle renownedly was bold.  
And how, before him, shot had Numbers slain,  
As his Files vanquished, or did post maintain.  
Inspecting next how in last Newberry Fight,  
His valour did Amaze beholders sight:  
When to Encourage Soldiers not to Fear,  
He did their Leader in his 
* This manner of Gallantry in Lyle, as a brave Encouragement to Militants, whom he commanded at the sight above mentioned, was observed by many, and lest it should not have an Honourable Record from History is here mentioned.  Shi●t appear.  
Which Posture so Flavira's Passion pleased,  
As her soft Arms his Picture's form embraced:  
Next kissed his Lips, and to the pencils Grace,  
Admired the figure of his Valiant Face.  
When Rosaline did from this action find  
The high Transport that ruled Flavira's Mind:  
And how she from Excess of Spirit gave  
Encomiums by comparing of the Brave:  
Whilst Jealous Honour might in others raise  
Excess of Daring to gain Woman's Praise;  
She from Flavira with a modest Grace  
Retired, and pitying Lovers wept apace.  
Fame's watchful Tongue not only from this Scene,  
But what before Flavira's words had been,  
Promulged to Martialists that Woman's heart  
Encited Emulation on their Part.  
Whence some of either Sex did make their claim  
To Love and Honour by a Rivalled Fame.  
Or did, with Animosity, Contest,  
As they affected or Judged actions best.  
This known to Lucas, in whose Gallant mind  
Desert and Glory did their Centre find:  
Above all Boast, the varnish of the Proud,  
Or Men whose Tongues, to Fame's deceit, are Loud,  
As Surreptitionsly they'd six renown  
On deeds, they would be fancied to have done.  
Yet from prevailing Sense of Honour thought,  
Himself disparaged if to Balance brought  
With any, to the Van of Fame had rose,  
Or to him were compared in lighting Foes.  
And as a Lover loved the praises too,  
Which Heroine Beauty Valour did allow.  
These thoughts had given some trouble to his breast,  
When Lyle, on Wars concern, to him addressed:  
Nor had he his Loved person till that Hour  
Beheld, since his return from Marston-Moor;  
Where Lucas did to wonder fight maintain,  
And of successful Foes had many slain.  
A Bloody victory and deplor'dly great,  
Since that 
* In which as some write were killed on both fides Nine Thousand Men.  day Dates the King's first grand defeat;  
The Northern Counties wholly lost thereby,  
And numerous Lives renowned for Loyalty.  
As soon as Lyle beheld brave Lucas Face,  
With h●…y kindness he did him embrace:  
Wishing that if in War, by Heaven's decree,  
Their Lives must have a Fatal destiny:  
That one days Bloody Period both might end,  
And in one Grave be buried friend by friend.  
This sense of Lyl's so generously kind,  
Impressed such passion on the others Mind,  
That his Soul yields a noble Tear to shed,  
ere for reply he these words to him said.  
Highly thy kindness Valiant Lyle I own,  
And the remarks of Honour by it shown,  
Nor do I doubt but that some future Field,  
Shall to us Jointly Crops of Glory yield.  
Tho' Rebels did at Marston-Moor succeed,  
Where Loyal valours did profusely bleed:  
Of whom perhaps some Ghosts less quiet rest  
As they discern men's former worth depressed:  
Or by Capricious Fame Misunderstood  
The value of their deeds and Warlike blood;  
As Tongues of Envy she to Camps does send  
That to Impede Man's Glory there contend:  
Or unto Piekes dispose the Martial Breast,  
As Actions by Compare are deemed best.  
A way, some Ladies for Love's sake rejoice,  
When they to valour give their casting voice.  
These words and what their Tendency might mean,  
Seemed to prepare some unexpected Scene.  
Well known to Lyle the high disgust of Spirit  
That Lucas had to descants on his Merit:  
Or any fond Perceptions that Employed,  
Tho' by a friend, his valour equalised.  
Whence Lyle was sorry that Flavira's Mind  
Was, for her Lover's sake, to Boast inclined.  
And now he bends discourse another way  
To Wars designs, and Battles future day:  
Telling they soon must Enemies oppose,  
By Fairfax, Cromwell, Led, their active Foes:  
Who for fierce Wars increase in Soul conspire,  
Like fuel added to some spreading fire,  
May Heavens decree all dire presage restrain,  
As Royal Powers their Cause in fields Maintain:  
Let their bold Chiefs their private Grudges slight,  
That Stars may aid their Union as they fight.  
No matter if Fond Tongues Incline to Scan  
The Martial Deeds of this or t'other Man:  
Or from peculiar favour would prefer  
Some they admire to Fame's first Room in War:  
An Emulation that should least Infest  
The steady Temper of the valiant Breast.  
Know dearest friend, that Lucas does concede  
And Love the rule by which thy Soul is led.  
Granting with you that valours noble part,  
In spite of tongues, resideth in the heart:  
Yet tho' there seated, still the Bravest must  
Their Overtacts by humane praise adjust.  
As Men from use this gross advantage have,  
That Jury-like, they honour kill, or save.  
No Soul of Glory will a Vaunter be,  
Or by formed speech declare its Gallantry.  
Yet could Man's valour high ascend as Star,  
I'd have it thought at least Mine went as sar.  
Suppose Flavira's Lips your praise should tell,  
Or boast that your atcheiuments all excel.  
Were't not Inglorious If from Rosaline,  
Prowess, should want her tongues applause, i● mine.  
Tho' with a Blush she should my deeds declare,  
And them with Lovers Boasted Fame compare.  
Love does me to that Competition draw,  
Without Intended Breach of Freindships' Law.  
When Lyle the Purport of this Speech had weighed,  
His Modest replication thus he made.  
Vain 'twere for us, Brave friend to Canvas words,  
Which woman's tongue, (with Passion swayed,) affords:  
Or think they Lessen honours Complete Sum,  
As from their Partial value Plaudits Come.  
Believe my heart, which never so conspired  
With woman's Soul, for deeds to be admired  
Tho' hardly Man resentingly will blame  
Affection, when Indulgent to his Fame  
I grant that woman's Love is highly great,  
Said Lucas, that would honour Stimulate:  
And thereby Loyal valour so Enhance,  
That with it Love's best Glory may advance.  
Such Rivaldry I willingly allow,  
And in a friend it bravest must Avow.  
Give me thy hand as valiantly we make  
This contract for our Love and honour's sake:  
Who of us can Most foes by Conduct slay,  
Or Pers'nall Gallantry next Battles day;  
Let him unto his Lady that report,  
Or for more Grandeur Publish first at Court.  
To which Lyle did, with some Surprise, reply,  
Brave the Proposal is none can deny:  
Yet who until this time, of Chief ere heard,  
That would by this bold Method be preferred.  
And if Agreed 'tis left to Martial Chance,  
Which of our Swords or conducts 'twill advance.  
Where accidents sometimes Attempts do Aid,  
That could not else Auspiciously be made.  
Know, Answered L●cas, 'tis not Fortune's power,  
That Slurrs the die of war some winning hour,  
That can Impair this Actions high des●rt,  
Or from Success Select the Bravest heart.  
What if resolved Like us few have been known,  
Or that to Camps the brave Novel we own:  
Th' examples rise, our Glory will be Found,  
And others teach in valour to abowd.  
Lucas said Lyle, enough I do embrace  
This offer, upon which you value place:  
Without enquiring by a stricter Sense,  
Why the proposal does from you Commence.  
And well I know with us some chiefs Conspire,  
That the world's talk should most their facts admire:  
And think they bid for Fame by Trumpets sound,  
If by Compare they find themselves renowned.  
Whence Jars and sierce Contests the Soul's divide  
Of Proved Commanders on th● Royal side  
Who so their Animosities prefer,  
●s Loyal Duty Slackens in this war;  
And Judge 'tis brave if one another they,  
In stead of Foes, by Arms attempt to slay.  
To cease such Ills if our example may,  
I'll gladly Fight as you propose the way.  
And others te●ch, that competitions vie,  
To turn their Force against the Enemy;  
And less for Fame then for their King Employ  
The Hector's part, as they his Foes destroy.  
Now replied Lucas, I'm endeared more  
Unto thy Soul, If possible, then before;  
That with such Grandeur does conspire to raise  
Example Jointly to our Loyal praise.  
Which to attain the Motive first was mine,  
The Applications Glory I grant Thine.  
And ●…ls the world thy Soul does war Approve,  
N●… 〈◊〉 ●…he Blood or Spoil too many Love,  
But t● uphold thy Sovereign's right and Laws,  
And with a heart unblemished serve his Cause.  
No G●…dy hopes or fury Leads thee on,  
But worth to act what should be Glorious done.  
Thus war's thy honour, and if decrees above  
Permit that foes my Life shall first remove;  
I beg of Heaven, that my then dying Face  
May be last valued by thy Loved embrace.  
This Caress passed, they next resolved to act  
According as here told their Gallant pact.  
And if our Muse can give their deeds a Glory,  
They shall have lasting Fame within her story.  
Now Rosaline within whose tender Breast,  
Terror and bad presage had Grief Impressed.  
And finding tho' by Speech and blushes tried,  
Flavira's heart could not be Mollifyed:  
Who had, with disregard to other Merit,  
Allowed to Lyle the most Heroic Spirit:  
From whence might dangerous Emulations 〈◊〉  
●f Fame did such discourse to Lucas bring.  
And his sierce mind Incite for love of her,  
His value by his peril to prefe●…:  
Occasion gave her sorrow to Revolve  
The Apprehensions of her tender Soul:  
As firmest Love her restless Fears did weigh  
From her first waking time to end of day.  
Nor could she take her soft repose at Night  
For dismal Dreams that did her more assright.  
By which she thought in Vision she beheld  
Her Lucas wounded, or to Death compelled.  
And Judging that her presence nor her Fears,  
Or Love, tho' Interceding with her tears,  
Could him, her Soul affected, now deter  
From forwarding his Perils in this War:  
Resolve she does her person to remove,  
Howe'er obscure she grieved or died for Love.  
A Servant old she had of firmest trust,  
Whose Paps her Beauteous Infancy had Nursed:  
Whom solely she acquaints with her Intent,  
And why from Oxford she would now Absent:  
Tho' to her grief, she did from him depart,  
Whose Love she still must carry in her heart;  
Wishing her Breast, when shot flies thick i● field,  
Might Interpose and be her Lover's shield.  
Then asked her Nurse, if she could find a way  
Unto some place where she unknown might stay.  
To which her Matron Servant thus replied,  
Your Gracious Mother sometime ere she died,  
Me, by her will, your Gardianess designed,  
No Less than Natural Mother to you kind:  
ere since your Infant Lips first Sucked my breast,  
And kissed as you did in my Bosom rest.  
But why, my dearest Child, must your presage,  
Even to despair, your Tender heart engage.  
Don't other Beauties, this sad Time, behold  
The Armed Lover, and observe when told  
His Martial acts, altho' their gentle car  
Would softer Sounds perhaps desire to hear:  
Yet, who of these, Society or place  
For this Cause leave, or sight of Warlike Face  
By them beloved; And wherefore should you more  
Than other hearts your Sorrow thus explore.  
Grant me said Rosaline, by thy Compare,  
More Tender Soul'd then many Lovers are:  
And that when Drums do beat or Trumpets Sound,  
My Breast, by inward Grief, receives a wound:  
Lest their bold Summons should the armed hand  
Of him I Love too desperately command.  
Be this the Cause, or let thy Soul devise  
Any for my remove, more kind, or wise.  
Her careful woman having Pondered well  
Her Lady's Grief, and Tears that from her fell;  
Her sleep disturbed, and how she made her moan  
In Love's ●ad accents as she walked alone:  
Nor could her Lute, or Music of her Voice,  
At which when heard Birds did in Groves rejoice;  
Assuage the Apprehensions of her Soul,  
The waves that in her heart did restless roll.  
Unto Fair Rosaline, thus briefly said,  
Love's Fear I see has your Love's torment Bred:  
And hard it is, I Judge, by your remove  
To leave behind the fears that spring from Love.  
But since in being Spectator here you find  
That terrors hast their pastport to your Mind:  
I can your Fair removal so contrive,  
As Wars events shan't to your ears arrive.  
And where, with welcome, you may seasons spend  
By harmless ease till Battles have an end.  
Guide me kind Foster-mother to the place,  
Where I may that Content in Soul embrace:  
And for my Lover there devoutly Pray  
That Heaven may him defend each Fatal day.  
Her wise attendant having these words weighed,  
No longer did her Ladies stay persuade.  
Since in that Juncture expectations were  
Busied by dangers of ensuing war,  
And rumoured then that to perform some deed,  
By boldest Prowess, Lucas stood obliged.  
Wherefore she with her Lady's haste conspires,  
After she her had Clothed in sit Attires.  
And over these a Black silk-robe had hung  
To veil her visage as they passed on.  
But for her own disgnise took no more care  
Then on her head a Traveller's hood to wear.  
And thus Night come, they 'riv'd beyond the Line  
Which Oxford works and Ramparts did confine.  
When by few steps the appointed place they ●inde,  
Whether a Trusty Sorvant was Assigned  
To wait with Horses, on which mounted they  
With all Convenient speed did haste away.  
Neatly the Virgin could her Palfrey guide,  
Enured for pastime mettled steeds to ride:  
And as hers sometimes now remissly trod,  
His fault she told him by her rain, or rod.  
With care her woman to direct her course,  
Before her rid, tho' worse she ruled her horse.  
Yet with best diligence Employed her eye,  
That timely she might uncooth Tracts espy:  
That from her Horse's steps her Ladies might  
The safest tread, as on they passed that Night.  
No Pilate, Sailing dangerous Creek or straight,  
When Orient Pearls the riches of his freight,  
Could with more vigilance his Compass steer,  
Then for her Lady was her woman's care.  
Who knowing long that Country's site and coast,  
From Roads she to less usual ways had Crossed,  
Where least she thought might plundering Soldiers stray,  
Or Troops that Foes by Starlight sought to slay.  
And as securest way she thought to Choose,  
Night's Gloom Increasing, the designed did loose.  
This Guide now frighted for her Lady's sake,  
And dangers might ensue from her Mistake:  
No step her horse did tread on Leaf or Grass,  
But she feared Notice gave where they did pass.  
And if some spiry Bush by her was seen,  
She doubted it might armed Man have been.  
Her Lady seeing thus perplexed her guide,  
To lead her boldly on, did foremost ride:  
Imploring, from above, her Journey's aid,  
Who was too Innocent to be afraid.  
And thus she sometimes wrong and sometimes right,  
Had forward led till hours near spent of Night.  
When she by Chance a Candle did perceive  
That from a Cottage some Small light did give.  
Whither she rid and calling at the door:  
A Hoory Dame, from spinning on her floor,  
Opening her wicket, with a churlish flame,  
At first word gave to her a Harlot's Name.  
Saying, that she had lost both food and rest  
By Drabs that with their Troopers her oppressed:  
Nor doubted but such horrid Queans were they,  
And swore she'd not aid them if lost their way.  
Old woman, said the Virgin, pray forbear  
Words, that from bad mistake, offend my ear.  
We to no other purpose hither came,  
Save to inquire the road towards Buckingham:  
Which I suppose thy Pity won't deny,  
Or let this piece of Gold that kindness Buy.  
The Money handled, soon the Belldame made  
A homely Curtsy, and her pardon prayed:  
Saying insooth Fair Mistress, I perceive  
I was mistaken, since you frankly give.  
We Countrey-folk, God wot, kind words best savour,  
When they do likewise us with profit favour.  
And wish that all as truly served their King,  
As we take pains to get and love his Coin.  
Your way, when passed this Gate, the right hand shows,  
And whither you intent directly goes.  
So hard it is a Kindness to Obtain,  
Of Rugged Natures, unless won by Gain.  
The knowing Matron by this little aid,  
Her Lady's passage without error made.  
Towards a forest where she did Intent  
Their Journeys trouble should receive an end.  
And thus they forward safely passed some Miles,  
When Morning's face appeared with rosy smiles;  
As Birds seemed Notes on purpose to prepare,  
Thereby to ●…en this soft Virgin's Care;  
And bad pr●sage which oft her mind did fill,  
Who could not as she road but Tears distil:  
Or blamed sometimes her fear, tho' caused by Love,  
That her from Lucas sight did thus remove;  
And him, if wounded, not in person Aid,  
Or by her Skill, Or Tears, his Balsam made.  
Thus thoughts revolved within her troubled Breast,  
As with her faithful woman on she past.  
The Morning Smooth as was her Infant Face,  
When Heaven did New born light in Skies first place.  
Nor less Auspicious did appear the way  
On which they forward rid that Early day.  
No Terrible man beheld, or noise was heard,  
That might their further Progress have dete●…'d.  
Until arrived unto a parting road  
That led unto another by a Wood:  
From whence, as if in Ambush laid before,  
Of Armed Horsemen Twenty if not more,  
By speech Outlandish, and of Visage Grim,  
With rugged fury apprehended them.  
And like a Dove, when by a Vulture seized,  
This Virgin Beauty was by these surprised.  
Whilst she, as Boisterously they her surround,  
From ready thought had this expedient found;  
As them, to spare rude search, she frankly gave  
Her Coin and Gems, and what then all she'd save,  
A little Picture Jewels did adorn,  
And next her breast for Lucas sake was worn.  
When these they had, and from her woman too  
Had taken what they found about her now;  
Like fierce Banditti's that could not decide  
How amongst them Stolen Booties to divide:  
From horrid words to Oaths their threats arose,  
And next prepared to force their keenest Blows.  
Till some more Temperate did advise the rest,  
That since by Power these women they possessed,  
And things of value, dutcous 'twas that they  
Should to Vanbralders presence them convey:  
To whose Decision their contests should yield,  
He being their Supreme Officer in Field.  
Persuaded thus to stand to his award,  
Their lovely Captive towards him they Guard.  
No Beauteous Saint, when to be Martyred led  
By Faces dreadful as the Gorgon's head:  
Could more Serenely resolute appear,  
Then Rosaline did amongst such figures here.  
Walloone Vanbralder was, and hither came,  
As Verse relates, to raise his Martial Name.  
When many of his hardy 
* That some Numbers of Walloons were entertained by the 41 Parliament, for their Military ●ervice, is well known to all that are acquainted with that Time.  Nation were  
Paid by the Houses to assist their War.  
When this Bold Leader Rosaline had seen,  
And well observed her Comely form and Mein:  
His Looks were troubled and Amazed his Eyes,  
Like one from sudden wonder felt surprise;  
Unto his Breast Throbs did Alarms Beat,  
And raised within a Lovers ardent heat.  
T'●njoy her Person fully he inclined,  
But by what Method no less posed his Mind:  
So Love and Honour struggled in his Soul,  
Where hard 'twas found to yield them jointly rule.  
But now to seem Composed, howe'er he meant  
To Manage or Complete his Love's intent;  
He kindly Bowed, and to her words addressed  
That Gentle seemed; yet others with them mixed▪  
Which told that Martial Trust severe must be,  
Against whoever befriend the Enemy:  
Or such that might Intelligence Convey,  
Tho' of her Sex, by any Subtle way.  
Or should, excuse Me that I put the Case,  
More to deserve some Chiefs desired Embrace:  
From Camp to Camp a Beauteous spy arrive▪  
And Teach him next our ruin to contrive.  
A Crime like this the Houses did of late  
Detect, in handsome Lady,▪ 'gainst their state.  
Wherefore you must expect b●fore you go,  
That I your person will and business know:  
Your taken Jewels you may have again,  
But Lucas Picture shall with me remain.  
The cause this whisper briefly shall declare,  
And such as will require your kindest Ear.  
What thought can guests how her Soul was perplexed,  
As this man had thus couched his amorous Text.  
Whilst she, that for loves Pity only fled,  
Must here detested Lovers Presence dread.  
But since his words, at which her Soul took fright,  
Had not as yet arrived to wicked height:  
She thus with modest confidence replied;  
Justly by me your Inserence is denied,  
Since I have nothing done against your cause,  
Or what may Interfere with Martial Laws.  
Wars daring Conflicts and their sierce result,  
Have been my dread but never my consult.  
And were the Motive of my Journey known,  
Enough 'twould prove the truth which here I own.  
Well I discern (said he) that Woman's thought  
Can speciously evade or excuse fault.  
But know that to my power no less 'tis free  
To tax your Crime as it appears to Me:  
Or send you to the Houses under Guard,  
Who may you long Imprison before heard.  
Tho' unto you I gentler am Inclined,  
As to my heart your Beams do passage find.  
Perhaps you'll call this Love, and next expect  
That honour should in Me cause its Neglect:  
And you by Passport to your Hero send,  
That story may my Temperance Commend.  
To which, for glorious praise, I might comply,  
Tho' Honour by that Act should Love deny:  
Did not Me other obligation sway,  
To discharge which, I must your person stay.  
Then Venus, Martial Sir, 'tis I perceive  
That has Commenced within you this Intrigue.  
And whence my persons safety you propose,  
If with your wishes mine would kindly close?  
Are you a Soldier, and thus guide your Charms,  
Which Cupid would despise did he wear Arms.  
Or is't some stratagem, I can't discern,  
That you in some loose Foreign Camp might learn.  
Be't what it will, my Virtue I dare trust,  
Howe'er to Honour you'd appear unjust.  
When this return, this Walloon-Chief did hear,  
Gild touched his Soul, where love would guilt endear;  
Whilst as she Pleaded Virtues cause to him:  
His love's Transport he then did greatest deem.  
Her Grace, looks, Speech, by Nature's special Art,  
He Judged designed Allurements to his heart:  
And thought she did luxuriously adjust  
That Beauty had no Virtue by her trust.  
From this Course Principle he does design  
How Fraud with Lust should wicked aid combine,  
And by a fond device so manage Time,  
As might complete his vile intended Crime.  
And thus does by Fictitious Story tell  
That sad disaster late had him befell:  
As he a Beauty, to his Soul most dear,  
Had lost by rude surprise this Time of War.  
Perhaps concealed by some Chiefs rigid Power,  
That but too soon her Person may deslower.  
A Lady lately, whether her or no,  
From full report I cannot certain know,  
By Lucas was detained I understand;  
If so, his Pledge in you is in my hand.  
And if Exchange of Beauty compass may  
Her wished return, yours shall her ransom pay.  
But should I apprehend, which Heaven avert  
From e'er a●●●cting of her fair desert,  
That any Impious Man, by Lustful force,  
Has stained her Person to her Soul's Remorse:  
The same I'll act on you, unless I find  
That your Embrace proceods from yielding mind.  
Let chance the valiant Lucas hither Bring,  
To fight at once for his Love's sake and King:  
On Terms resolved defiance I'd express,  
And tell that I his Rosaline possess.  
This Synon-Lover having formed this Tale,  
His wicked Ends pretextly to avail;  
And by feigned Cause some seeming Grandieur add  
Unto the Method of his being had:  
Concludes, that soon his Subtle Terrors would  
This Virgin's mind unto his purpose mould:  
And to her blushes join a yielding sense,  
Till kisses won her total Complaisance.  
Whose breast now filled with sorrow, and her eyes,  
Like drops engendering in serenest Skies,  
Tho' big with tears, yet did allow no grief,  
By which, from this vile Man, she'd ask relief:  
But look upon him with a Scornful ray,  
That more than words did her disdain convey.  
Her faithful woman, tho' attending near,  
Could, not the sense Vanbralder uttered, hear:  
He having, aside some steps, her Lady took,  
Before he had his lustful accents spoke:  
Yet in her prospect of his dismal Face,  
Where Red and Pale did varied Horrors place:  
His rough aspect and eyes that fiercely rolled,  
As Comets when Prodigious Acts foretold;  
She saw her Lady's danger, and by Tears,  
Shed in abundance, did imply her Fears.  
And with a woman's fury next designed  
T'upbraid the fervour of his wicked mind:  
Or else to kill him by some proper way,  
Tho' Guarded by his Troops, in open day.  
And if the Fact her Lady could defend,  
She'd gladly forfeit life to give his End.  
But otherwise it was above decreed,  
That this Libidinous Foreign Chief should bleed.  
Whose hasty Scouts to him now Tidings brought  
Of Marching Powers, on good Terms might be fought:  
Their Numbers less than he Commanded there,  
And to the next Campaign arrived were.  
Adding that Lucas as Intelligence said,  
Before them as Supreme Commander Led.  
When fierce Vanbralder heard brave Lucas' name,  
He bid a Guard surround the Beauteous Dame:  
And next, her to some rising space convey,  
Whence she might view the action of that day:  
And with what Courage he'd her Hero Fight,  
Or kill him, if he could, her love to spite:  
Then with stern visage does a march Command,  
Till near arrived where did Embattled stand  
His valiant Foes, and next a halt he makes,  
And to his Trumpeter this Message speaks.  
Tell Luna's, if he Leads the Troops I see,  
That here Vanbralder stands his Enemy:  
Not only as I act the Soldiers part,  
But as a Lover more ●n●lam'd my heart.  
The Object I admire he'll prone guests,  
When told that I fair Rosaline possess.  
And might allege, if his belief 'twould gain,  
That cause besides does bid me her retain.  
Who am from chance of War perhaps of late,  
In my lost Mistress full unfortunate.  
As just it is, that I his Lady stay:  
And if occasion calls, some future day,  
Her person as a fair exchange allow  
For her I lost, and would recover now.  
This Picture too which Rosaline did wear,  
As his Loved figure, to him likewise bear.  
When Lucas this strange Errand understood,  
Horror and rage fomented in his Blood.  
And to express his Detestation said,  
What Theory has vicious Man displayed  
Like him who does Ingloriously confer  
Foulest dishonour on the Name of War:  
And observations more Fruitful make  
When heinous precedents from Camps they take:  
As if their Circuits, which the Schools should be  
Of Ethics raised to bravest dignity,  
Did worst conductors unto Vice contain,  
Or such, who pronest Lives with vileness stain.  
Wherefore for Honour's Cause, and Glorious War,  
Against him my Soul and Sword desires are.  
And if my Arms can't Rosaline relieve,  
May Heaven her Virtue happy safety give.  
Enough I've spoke, and let Vanbralder know,  
My Trumpet soon a warlike charge shall Blow.  
This Messenger returned; in Martial form  
They led their Powers: so Pilots, when a Storm  
Is near approached, with utmost conduct try  
To s●em the adverse Waves their Enemy.  
Loud neighed the Horse, and with erected Ear  
Fierce noise of War courageously did hear.  
Whose eager strength would fain his Guider slight,  
And without Reins now carry him to Fight:  
Whilst as the Surface hears his Trampling Feet,  
Earth sounds, and vents a Feverish fume and heat.  
Tedious was time by Gallant Lucas thought,  
Until his opposites he closely fought:  
Impulsed at once for his King's cause to kill,  
And Love's revenge, which fury did instill:  
And as their Forces now just meeting were,  
Vanbralder does aloud to his declare:  
That who of them so boldly could succeed,  
As to leave Lucas on the Surface dead:  
With Plumes and gifts he should rewarded be  
For killing his Chiefs hated Enemy.  
Smartly alike both sides their onsets made,  
And first with shot no time of death delayed.  
Yet scarce a man had room, when killed, to fall;  
As close they fought in Warlike posture all.  
So poised their courage and their strength of Horse,  
As neither's shock a while had greatest force.  
When Steeds did opposite Steeds with Fury By't,  
That could not spurred bear Riders on to Fight.  
Whose shining Swords, as yet not coming nigher,  
Enforced from their keen clashings sparkling sire.  
And sometimes severed by their Strenuous blows,  
Instead of Limbs, the Weapons of their foes.  
Till Lucas, Lion-like, his way did Force,  
Killing a stout Commander of their horse,  
And with his wounding Sword attained Room  
For other Valours after his to Come.  
Whilst thus he charged, three fierce and huge Walloons  
Attacked his Person, to one of which deaths wounds  
He swistly gives, and kills the Second so  
That boldly sought, and some think hurt him too.  
The Third Man, seeing this, away did fly,  
And dis-inheartened his strong side thereby.  
Which by degrees, as Lucas Troops pressed on,  
Did Courage slack and from their Fury run.  
Bold and upright, than all more Big and Tall,  
Vanbralder rid, and with stern voice did call  
His Militants to kally, or he Swore  
By lot the Tenth man else should die, or more.  
Expressing what a shame it was to them  
On Foreign Soil to fly or desert him.  
And tho' by words he could but few persuade,  
Yet with those few, to charge, resolved he stayed.  
When Lucas in pursuit near him arrived,  
And by his Plumes and Scars the Man descried  
To be the person he that day had sought,  
And would on Love's account have chiefly fought:  
He bids, with ready voice, the Walloon know,  
That he might singly fight with Lucas now.  
Who would not by success or Numbers stay  
Him yet from gaining a victorious day:  
If by Encount'ring hand to hand he'd try  
Which of them two in Field should boldest die.  
Glad was Vanbralder to receive this word,  
And charged him home with pistol-shot and Sword.  
The first of which had almost Lucas stun'd,  
Tho' not enforcing any Bloody wound,  
As against his Head-piece did the Bullet light,  
And left thereon a sign of this fierce sight.  
But Lucas, soon recovering, near him got,  
Hoping to kill this mighty man with shot:  
Unto whose face his Pistol he advanced,  
Which would not sire however so it chanced.  
And now their Combat was to end by Sword;  
And one would judge that Method did afford  
No small advantage to this huge Walloon,  
Who had so vast a Weapon of his own.  
Or near as great as that appears to Eyes  
That in th'Tower for Conqueror William's lies.  
As here this mighty Sword Vanbralder wields,  
Whose Edge he thought would cut through hardest shields,  
A furious blow he at Brave Lucas makes,  
Who by his steeds quick motion it escapes:  
And, by a Nimble manage, turned again,  
He Cuts his Foes hand off and bridle Rein:  
Whose furious Horse, thus sreed from rule by Bi●,  
Disdains his rider's Weight should on him sit:  
And boundeth oft unto a wondrous height,  
As this, or that way moves his ruleless might:  
Till down a Precipice he takes his way,  
And does by fall his Mighty Master slay.  
Thus Providence did death Vanbralder give,  
Whose Soul, in Body, was too bad to live.  
The King's Troops many, besides Walloon foes,  
Killed here of English we may well suppose:  
But to what Number Fighters fell that day,  
Our Muse does no Particulars convey.  
Tho' near a thousand Horse on each side fought,  
If from her Computation deeds be sought.  
What strange dis●…ay by fears and doubts was then  
Th' A●●●iction of the Beauteous Rosaline:  
Who Guarded by Vanbralders Power might see  
The Bloody Toils of that days Victory.  
And more concerned in Soul perhaps beheld  
Her belov'd Lucas engaged in that Field  
With Stout Walloons, or huge Vanbralders might,  
As they two did in Terrible Combat fight.  
Who having fully now dispersed his Foes,  
To free her Person next he boldly goes.  
Whom ●ierce Vanbralder had placed under guard,  
Which now its bold Attendance soon discharged:  
After beheld the fortune of this day,  
And to prevent their danger fled away.  
When he to her arrived and saw a space  
The ghastly paleness of her lips and Face:  
And how her Cheeks were sometimes drawn awry,  
Like Mortal whom Convulsive sits do ply;  
And as the fixed Stars appear in Skies,  
Moveless beheld the Glory of her Eyes.  
And thus within her woman's arms she lay,  
Who diligent was by every careful way  
Her Lady in Life's conflict to Assist,  
And by her help her grievous pains resist:  
As sometimes she her Beauteous Temples stroked,  
Or had by Prayers and Tears heaven's aid Invoked.  
In haste had Lucas from his steed removed,  
Yet feared to see the face of her he Loved:  
As he beheld her Cheeks Impaired of red,  
And features, like remains of Beauty dead.  
When from his Souls deep anguish thus he said;  
If Speech by me to Rosaline here Made  
Can passage find, and welcome from her ear,  
'Tis begged that she'd think Lucas now does fear:  
And that his Soul that never yet could weep,  
Or suffer from his breast a sigh to creep,  
When his blood by most desperate wounds was shed;  
Or seen in fields his bravest friends lie dead:  
Does both, as he her danger does behold;  
And if his Lips from hers could remove cold,  
He'd willingly by it Loves power explore,  
If that might her Life's pristine warmth restore:  
At Lest he'd take it as his Last farewell;  
If her Soul must on earth no longer dwell.  
But whilst he thus did his love's passion vent,  
Her woman on her Lady's Cure intent,  
Had from a Viol Cordiall-drops conveyed,  
Which Polyasters skill 'tis thought had made,  
And 'twixt her Lips disposed so much of them,  
As did her Life from Danger soon redeem.  
Tho' to that weakness brought she scarce could speak,  
As by the hand he kindly her did take:  
Whilst all she uttered was but to express  
Why she removed, and love of him Confess.  
Which soon he granted, who before perceived  
The Cause that had her Gentle Temper grieved:  
And how for love of him, and kindest fear,  
She had withdrawn to her disaster here.  
Yet would not further passages relate,  
That to her Mind disquiet might create:  
And chiefly did conceal how with brave Lyle  
He had conspired to Rival Martial Toil.  
But to oblige heroickly her Sense,  
From his Soul's Greatness did these words dispense.  
Sorry is Lucas that he now must ●ay  
That he can't Love appoint a Nuptial day:  
Since vowed I am that Hymen ne'er shall light  
Taper for me, till Rebels cease to sight:  
Nor Houses sit that by obtruded vote  
Dare Arms in Field against their King promote.  
But when with smoothest Brow peace yields her smiles,  
And rightful war requires no more my Toils:  
I'll then fair Rosalines embrace desire,  
And meet her wishes with a Lover's fire.  
Till when to Heaven's protection I'll her leave,  
And place she Judges best may her receive.  
Or where she lest may of fierce Battles hear,  
Or what in them my Martial perils are:  
And whenso'ere I full perceive their end,  
The welcome News to Rosaline I'll send.  
In whose behalf her woman does declare,  
Her Lady, as yet weak, and speech would spare,  
That well the Method he proposed conspired  
With what, by present thought, she most desired:  
Assuring him that when they fixed on place,  
He should have notice in Convenient space.  
Being thus resolved, and by Brave Lucas seen  
That in few minutes perfectly Serene  
The Beauteous form appeared of Rosaline,  
And strength restored by wondrous Medicine:  
He gently lifts her to her Saddles seat,  
And, with his kindest farewell, kissed her feet.  
And that she might the more securely ride,  
Appoints, to aid her way, a knowing guide.  
But to what place her person she withdrew,  
My Muse, in proper time, Intends to show.  
Whilst valour, Loyalty, and Love's high Glory,  
Commends this Hero's worth to future story.  
Who having then obtained a Glorious day,  
With Trumpets Sound he Marched his designed way.  
Thus raging war fermented every where,  
By Fates decree, this most unhappy year:  
In which the King, tho' much his Force Impaired,  
As against him had the Houses four years warred;  
Their Interest Mighty and no less their power,  
From London's Endless Srength, and Treasures store:  
Was Northward Marched, as many did suppose,  
T'encounter in those Regions Scottish Foes;  
Who would not Grant that duty should compel  
Their Persons in their colder Clime to dwell:  
And Southward to Assist the Houses came,  
Their Friends by League, but with more zealous flame  
Their bold partakers as they hoped to share  
Treasures and Spoils of England by this War.  
Yet nearer than these, Enemies were found,  
That against the King, at that time did abound.  
Thus was great Leicester filled with fight Men,  
That the King might not there have passage then:  
But be repulsed in case he should assay,  
To Curb that daring City in his way.  
The King his Summons sends to this bold Town,  
Which, like to others Principled, did own,  
That Royal Power did not of right Command,  
Whilst it the Houses Arms in Field withstand.  
So far Allegiance badly then decayed,  
As Men by Power or Interest were swayed.  
Affronted thus, the King soon Storms the place,  
Which Stiffly did resist some few hours space:  
Till oft attaqu'd by resolute Foot and Horse,  
Like Boisterous Waves that break through Bays by force,  
This City they by Strenuous onset take,  
And with its Spoils their numbers richer make.  
This Action great, yet Signally must be,  
By the Permissive will of Heaven's decree,  
The last Successful that the King obtained,  
As he by Arms his Crown and Life maintained.  
Forward the King meant to have Northward gone,  
His Soldiers heightened by this City won:  
And were for number and reputo the Flower  
Of his remaining Military Power.  
But soon diverted was his designed course;  
As Fairfax led his sierce New modelled force  
In sight of Oxford, and dread to Create,  
Seemed, Siege-like, there his Army to dilate.  
Hoping that Town, the Kings Force not at hand,  
Durst not, if frighted well, his Power withstand.  
Nor did he want Intelligence within,  
That could avail him from 
* A Remarkable Parasite and Traitor as he is described in the Third Book of this Poem.  Sydesmonds' Sin:  
Or others by the Houses money paid,  
As useful Tidings they to them conveyed.  
The Queen who with her Court and Ladies there  
Resided then, what unkind cause of fear  
Did this Appearance to her bosom bring,  
Tho' the dear Consort to a Mighty King:  
Since London's furious Senate durst decree  
Her Person Guilty cause their Enemy:  
And that she like a King's Imperial Wife,  
Endeavoured to preserve his Crown and life.  
When her concern was by Fame's speedy wing  
Carried unto the most Indulgent King:  
He as a Lover and a Sovereign Chief,  
Resolved to give his Heroine Queen relief.    

The EIGHTH BOOK.  
The Argument.  

Fairfax does sometime before Oxford stay.  
The Queen a prospect of his Army takes.  
A Martial Habit's by Flavira worn,  
In which she deeds to wonder does perform.  
Sydesmond subtle Cromwell does deceive  
For private Gain, not service of his Prince.  
Naisby's Fierce Battle, and the fatal loss  
The Crown there suffers, after which the King,  
His Forces every where declining, is  
By the vile Arms power sometime Restrained;  
And next Imprisoned in the Isle of Wight.   

SMall was at Oxford Loyal hearts repose,  
As Eyes there saw how bold and numerous Foes  
Begird the Town, and as appeared days light  
Alarumed all within to Arm for Fight:  
If as Defendants Bulwarks they'd maintain,  
And posts that did least Fortified remain;  
Or for more Glory skirmishes design  
By daring parties led beyond their Line.  
Whilst youthful Students Colleges forsake,  
And Pikes and Guns, to defend Science, take.  
To lead whom Gravest of the Long Robe joined,  
And unto Arms their Pupils disciplined:  
Inciting them from apt and Learned Phrase,  
To Merit, Next the Muses, Martial praise.  
When the fair Queen and Ladies of her Court  
Early awaked, and with a Glorious port  
Ascended to a Turret raised on high,  
That faced the thick arrayed Enemy.  
Where being seated, by each Mene and Grace,  
She added to the splendours of her Face:  
Or such from Grandeur of her Blood relate  
To Daughter of French Henry the Great.  
And now Magnanimously beheld the force  
Of her Opposers ranks of Foot and Horse:  
Their Martial equipage and daring Spirit,  
And what their valours she allowed might Merit  
Did they by rightful War their King assist,  
Or Foreign powers by his Command resist.  
Next pitying their bold errors dropped a Tear,  
Whose Soul, in perils, ne'er had wept for fear.  
The Female Nobless waiting round the Queen,  
Like lesser Stars in Constellations seen,  
When one of supreme Magnitude and height  
Appears the most conspicuous to sight:  
By aptest words did sev'rally extol  
The serene worth of her Majestic Soul:  
Wishing that for her sake, Time did allow,  
As heretofore when Dames used dart and bow,  
That they might with Men hardy Courage vie,  
And force them, when arrayed, by arms to ●●y.  
This Glorious Spectacle by Fairfax seen,  
And known that there spectator ●ate th● Qu●●n:  
His Modesty, that always did attend  
Actions that do his Va●our most commend,  
Produced his Blush, and thought his Cause less brave,  
As their perfections it desiance gave.  
But Cromwell hating all superior sway,  
And Legal power which Subjects should obey:  
Projected had in his aspiring thought,  
How he'd to supreme height himself promote:  
As gradually the Ligaments of State,  
He'd sever, and vile Factions animate;  
That in the end he might subvert the Throne,  
And Line of British Kings so famous known:  
And in this juncture gladly would have gained  
This Town, where for security remained  
The Queen and Royal Children, whom to surprise  
He now and after blackly did devise.  
And calling Hugon, on whose preaching part,  
Aided besides 'tis thought by Magick-Art,  
He much relied to fascinate the Soul,  
And spirit Men against their Sovereign's rule:  
To him thus said, well I discern thy Gifts  
In Prayer and Preaching, and such Spiritual shifts  
As do Enthusiasms usefully disperse,  
For which I can't enough thy Fame rehearse;  
When I revolve that quaintest Pulpit-cheat  
Could but thin schisms heretofore dilate:  
Whilst thy Insinuations Men incite  
To Aid our Cause, yet know not why they sight.  
Which Mighty Nothing, from thy Preached sense,  
Does fruitful use of Souls to us dispense.  
O'er Church and State Faith's Chaos first must spread,  
ere here Created Rule Improveth dread.  
Then Hugon hugs, and bids him apt Texts find  
T'●nstruct their Forlorn hopes when next designed.  
To which this Canting Imp did thus reply,  
What words enough can Cromwell magnify:  
Fairfax too meanly were to you compared,  
As you for Brain and Valour stand revered.  
Heaven has throughout your Visage Sprinkled grace,  
Like Moses shines your elect Nose and face.  
Each of your Features do by Semblance speak  
A Scripture Hero, and his Context make.  
When to New-England banished for a Crime,  
By Prelates held Sedition at that time,  
In dream I there Prophetic Vision had;  
And saw, as now, your Person Armed and ●lad.  
And how at Marston-Moor a Cannon shot,  
By Miracle swerved, that else had missed you not.  
For Joy asleep I smiled, and will some day  
To applaud you my dream in Pulpit say.  
Accept this List, in which you'll some perceive,  
That to our Cause their lives will fearless give:  
●…,  
●… and Plot.  
Their Courage ●●tly will this Town oppose:  
(Where Bookmens' rules assist our greatest foes)  
The Goths that sacked old Superstitious Rome,  
Did not more fierce destroyers thither come,  
Then these would Oxford's Libraries despoil,  
And Profligate the Studious Gownmens' Toil.  
Thy Catalogue, said Cromwell, I embrace;  
And for facin'rous deeds against this place,  
Such Principles and Swords I will Employ,  
As, Our Foe, prating Science, shall destroy.  
And thou a Spiritual Renagado known,  
Our Army shall for that Compliance own  
Thee Chaplain-General, and Impower'd to preach  
Sworded when ere thou men wouldst boldest teach.  
To aid our counsels few we must s●elect,  
Tho' in that manage Fairfax we neglect:  
Or else allure his easy Nature on,  
To forward deeds he meant not should be done.  
But now the motions of this Town let's see,  
And how t'oppose prepared the Enemy.  
Mean while Flavira, who from height of Mind  
Fame to her Sex and beauty had designed:  
And would not grant that nature's elder choice,  
Or cu●●om, deemed by her man's partial voice,  
Should Prowess most on Sex of men confer,  
And Value heightened by their deeds in war:  
Excluding women by a tender Name,  
And habit, from advent'ring life for fame.  
Or seldom raised to higher future Glory,  
Then to adorn, with Men, a painted Story.  
And next Magnanimously does disdain  
That woman's habit should her Soul restrain  
From such Achievements, Hero's might admire,  
And in her brave esteem, her Sex raise higher.  
Discreetly weighing the Commanding Cause,  
That Subjects called to Fight for King and Laws.  
And tho' no woman Summoned it to Aid,  
None were forbid, she judged, if not afraid.  
Nor did she doubt but in Lyles Gallant Mind  
Her virtues would sublimer value ●inde:  
If as her Soul his valour did esteem;  
His might, on that account, her worthier deem:  
And by alternate Glory next Improve  
The estimate of Fame as well as Love.  
But her designs she so resolved to Guide,  
As for Flavira she'd be not espied:  
Whilst habited like man to fields she'd go,  
And there encounter with the warlike Foe.  
Her woman-dresser did not now explore  
Further her Lady's sense then told before:  
Thinking that to raise Mirth, by some Surprise,  
She did intend her person to disguise.  
Or from her love of Arms and sprightly Mind,  
To visit the King's Camp, thus clad designed.  
Perhaps that valiant lisle might there confess  
How well she did become a Heroine dress.  
But this she might intend her waiter thought,  
When way from Oxford might be safer sought:  
Or chiefly to take pleasure in her glass,  
By seeing how, Armed, her Figure Beauteous was.  
By quick degrees her Lady she undressed,  
And on her slender Body placed a Vest,  
For mode and Colour like the youthful wear,  
Of such as Gayest than led Troops of war.  
Next compassed round her tender waist with Steel,  
Which tho' her pain she seemed no pain to feel.  
Upon her helmet a white Cross was placed,  
To show that Spotless Faith her valour graced,  
And Just defiance of the bloody Crime  
Of Boundless Heresies that Fatal Time.  
A Negro Page she for attendant took,  
That to her Horse and Arms would careful Look:  
Charging her woman, if inquiry made  
Of means by which she undiscerned conveyed  
Her personal remove, she was to say  
The wonder must remain to future day.  
When in convenient time she should receive  
Notice to come and serve 〈◊〉 if alive.  
And mounted on her Steed by ea●ly day,  
Through Lanes and Streets she took the privat'st way,  
Till beyond Oxford's outworks she had Joined  
With Forces for stout Skirmishes designed.  
Where with a dauntless ear she heard the Noise  
Of Canon, that most terribly destroys;  
And saw how shot off heads from bodies fiew,  
And Comely Limbs whose want the Owners slew.  
Nor brandished weapons, nor the arrayed field,  
Or grimmest looks which Foes embattell'd yield  
Could her concern, as with a gentle Brow  
These Horrors with contempt, she then did view.  
Whilst boldly wielding of her Naked Sword;  
She thought its bright reflection did afford  
More beauty to her face then e'er before  
She from her clearest Mirror could explore.  
And like some youthful Squire that had abroad  
Attained in Camps a generous warlike Mode:  
She courteously to Militants then speaks  
As room amongst their marshal ranks she takes.  
Adding besides, their courage to Incite,  
The Causes Just concern for which they sight.  
And how tho' young, She early had Inclined  
To season with best fortitude her Mind.  
Whilst other Tempers, if but sine in face,  
To meaner charms, in stead of War's gave place.  
As she had thus expressed some Troops appear  
That to attaque her Party ordered were.  
Which when observed, she blamed chiefs of her side  
That now too slow, she thought to charge did guide,  
Longing to come to Strenuous handy blows,  
And die her Maiden Sword in Blood of Foes.  
Engage they sharply did, and for a while  
Fairfax his Party something did prevail:  
For they selected Bodies were of Men,  
By Cromwell held most Zealous sighters then.  
But soon Flavira, wanting other guide,  
Did rally into Form her worsted side:  
And by renewing of the Charge again,  
Not only did th' opposing Force restrain:  
But them pursuing to their body threw  
A hand Granade, which firing divers slew.  
Some tell it near to Cromwell's Horse did light,  
As with reserves he seconded the sight:  
But howsoe'er same does her deeds report,  
'Tis sure that he observed her brave effort:  
And blamed his Soldiers 'cause they could not slay  
One that so boldly fought their Ranks that day.  
And swore, by Lord of Hosts, that they should try  
Once more to slay this daring Enemy.  
For sure some Spirit 'tis, or not the least  
Of Devils in a lusty Popish Priest:  
As by the Cross I plainly apprehend,  
That does upon the Youngsters Helmet stand.  
Such Crossing Enemies I'd first dest●●●,  
That with their Catholic Arms our Cau●…oy.  
And will be Loyal to their Sovereign's trust,  
Tho' his Laws their Faith's safety done't adjust.  
Away and lose no time by longer halt,  
Lest valour cool ere you again assault.  
'Tis but a party, howe'er ●old they are,  
And yours is more if Numbers we compare.  
Our General would scorn it should be said,  
That he detached more Troops to give you aid▪  
And if you can't leave all that party dead,  
I'll him reward that but the Crosiers head  
To me presents: a Superstitious fool,  
That after Crossing fights without a Rule.  
Commanded thus, they readily assail,  
And hope their valours fiercely may prevail.  
When Oxford's Chiefs no less courageous led,  
That both sides received loss from Numbers dead.  
But this could not Phanatique Fury stay,  
Which through th' opposing party forc'd its way.  
That in some haste the bravest did retire,  
Whilst Friends and Foes Flaviras' Soul admire.  
Who sometimes turning fought, then fled to sight,  
Then fiercely wheels and destroys Foes by sight.  
A many blows at her opposers struck,  
Yet blamed their force when viewed her beauteous look.  
Perhaps rejoiced as by indulgent chance,  
Their Swords her face did miss, and sideway glance.  
If so her visage pleased in Rageful toil,  
What man would not admire her kindest smile.  
And as she thus engaged, some sighters stayed,  
That boldly fought for her defence and aid:  
When ●the●s rallying, onsets made again,  
And did their ground successfully maintain.  
Till ●…ence ●ad obliged 'em to retire,  
As they beheld more numerous parties nigher,  
Which Fairfax from his mighty Camp had brought,  
And could not be by power of Oxford sought.  
When Cromwell saw his parties forced retreat,  
Whom most Flavira's Courage did defeat,  
He bit his Tongue for rago, and cursed in mind,  
As bloodily revenge he then designed.  
And could not in his Visage for a space,  
Compose the usual Cozenage of his face.  
Till looks and speech conspired his Canting way,  
Or when for wicked ends he'd fast and pray.  
Vowing that for the Crossed Champions sake,  
He'd vengeance on that Christian 〈◊〉 ●…ke.  
For as in front, a Cross that figure bore,  
Who was by Metaphor a Romish Whore,  
So in the Forehead of each Church we see  
Erected is a Harlot's Dignity.  
Wherefore 'twill well become our Zealous ●lame  
To ruin Crosses, and so Church's mai●,  
That Saints before most comely figured there,  
May without Nose or Limbs provoke our jeer.  
And sure his power by Time was bolder known,  
That Silver-shrined Diana melted down,  
And her admired Temples structure razed,  
Then he, by holy Cost, there first her placed.  
Hugon when heard these words did laugh for joy,  
Since thus Commissioned Churches to destroy:  
And plunder from within them what was left,  
Since Abbeys fall enriched their growing Sect.  
And next declared, altho' by Heavenly will,  
They did not then the daring Crosier kill:  
That better 'twas as he'd disperse a tale,  
Which more, than killed the Imp, should them avail.  
And how True-Protestant Children to devour,  
This serious thing was sent by Romish power:  
And unto wonder could, instead of Meat,  
A Wooden Cross with Superstition Eat.  
And, should the King prevail, had power from thence,  
T'a●…ict our sleshly friends by Penitence.  
And force our Dames, that Thimbles, Bodkins, wear,  
By Crosses figured on 'em Crimes to fear.  
This I confess last audience I forgot,  
As I had long discoursed of other plot.  
Cromwell, the Tale approved, and bid when next,  
On this occasion, he should choose a Text:  
To Fairfax so to preach as might his Soul,  
Unto their change designed, devoutest Fool.  
And now bids Hugon him amuse by Prayer,  
Made against Kingly Rule and Spiritual Power,  
Whilst Cromwell would with Ireton Counsels join,  
That sitter was to further their design.  
Yet, tho' some days faced Oxford, little more  
Their Army did then was performed before.  
Now had the Sun, within the Western Main,  
Some hours his Steeds refreshed, as Poets fain.  
When the Moon's Orb with Stars, Night's twinkling eyes,  
Arose to comfort Earth with Beams from Skies.  
A season that designing Man fits best,  
Whilst others would Indulge their harmless rest.  
When Fairfax had strict Guards near Oxford set,  
That passers thence and spies might Intercept,  
Of which some had detained a single man,  
Who from that City hastily moved then;  
Like Cassocked Scholar Grave his Robe appeared,  
And no less Reverend seemed his face and beard;  
For Priest they took him, which enough that time,  
If but for Function sake, was deemed a Crime.  
And searching of him found a written pass,  
By the Queen's Royal hand inscribed was.  
Death in worst shape they unto him declare,  
Thinking, for Popish Fighters, he made Prayer,  
Or with the Armed Crosier Joined of late,  
Whose Valour boldly did their force defeat.  
Smiling he heard their threats, and told that he  
Would Cromwell, if brought to him, satisfy.  
To whom conducted, Cromwell took no care  
Further a while t'inspect the man's affair:  
Or thought to hang him without more ado,  
Since that he was a Priest he judged true.  
Till he maturer some concerns did weigh,  
That possibly this Man could soon betray,  
Either as Fear of death or torture might  
His Soul unto discovery affright.  
And taking him apart, the man he found,  
To be Sydesmond, to his purpose sound:  
Who holding of his false beard in his hand,  
Like part on stage that undisguised does stand,  
Fawning Address he thus to Cromwell makes:  
See Famous Chief what pains Sydesmond takes,  
That dangerously his person does Commit  
To divers perils whilst Employed his wit,  
For your Assistance, and the Cause you serve,  
whatever of King and Queen such deeds deserve.  
Kind Lady, she her pass-por●…●…e allowed,  
That none might me Impede when I removed  
Where Royal powers Command, in hope that I,  
As promised 'twas, would against yours prove a spy.  
I took the pass that you might better see  
The Confidence these Sovereigns have in me.  
Whilst I do now my utmost Care Employ  
That they may Oxfora's rule small time Enjoy:  
And how Triumphantly your Army may  
This Teeming Fagle and her young ones Slay.  
Observe this persons Name I here present,  
Whom I corrupted have to my Intont.  
And shall to you betray an Oxford-port,  
By which the Town you'll gain by small effort.  
But first I must make good the Promised Coin  
That is assured him upon word of mine.  
Not doubted by the Houses that for gain  
Unto their Cause, I such Intrigues maintain.  
Cromwell embraced the Motion, and professed  
Sydesmond was most dear unto his Breast:  
And should Advantages to come receive,  
By which his favour richly he'd perceive,  
Since he endeavoured so their power to aid,  
As Martial prospects would be surer made.  
And who'd not in a Perilous Journey Try  
The shortest way, if more Secure thereby.  
Here take this Gold, and let the Care be thine,  
In proper time, to perfect this Design.  
The Coin Sydesmond takes, and when alone  
Laughed well to think how smooth his cheat had gone.  
And that by his device he could Cajoal,  
The subtle Cromwell's disbeleiving Soul.  
Since neither Hell nor he did know the man  
That would give up a Port in Oxford then.  
And was a fiction for his ends devised,  
And by his craft might be enough disguised;  
As things at Oxford changed, or aid arrived,  
ere this design, if true, could be contrived.  
And hasting his return unto the Queen,  
'Twas sure he told her not with whom he'd been.  
Who by a tale well feigned another way,  
Expected from her bounty thanks and pay.  
The senate's Army that before this Town  
Some days had stayed and nothing Signal done:  
Drew off, referring unto future Hour  
What might be there effected by their Power:  
Either as Force or Powerful Gold should aid  
Designs, that might in time be surer laid.  
Having from best Intelligence now heard,  
That the King did his Northern March retard.  
And after Leicester by Storm bravely won,  
Designed to guide his Army towards this Town.  
Lest in his absence Oxford straitened were;  
And siege, or Storm make his Foes Victors there.  
Fairfax who had with resolute Cromwell thought,  
Time long ere they the Royal Army fought:  
Their numbers great, and full composed of Men  
That against the King were siercest fighters then:  
Resolved with all convenient haste to find  
Some fit Campaign where Battle might be joined.  
Oxford thus freed, and Supernumeraries there  
Which well the Town could in that juncture spare:  
The Prudent Queen and Council did detach  
Troops thence of Cavaldry strictly charged to March  
Unto their Sovereign's Camp the nearest way,  
And boldly aid him on next Battles day.  
With these Flavira, full resolved that fame  
Should to her Martial deeds give lasting name,  
Like some young Hero rides a Volunteer,  
To meet in far Campaign's severest War.  
Di●…a's Form, when brightest Armed in Field,  
Could ne'er such chaste and sprightly lustres yield,  
As did her comely Beams and Warlike Grace;  
Ensouled by Mars, tho' Venus was her Face.  
And Journeying thus till Night for rest did call,  
The worst bed sometimes to her Lot did fall.  
Yet with no Niceness, Beauty's refin'd Care,  
She did that way her persons hardship spare.  
Nor doubts my Muse that such shift than she made,  
Tho' seeming Man, that none were with her Laid.  
Whose Last days march more admired than the rest,  
As accidents are by our verse expressed:  
Has such relation unto persons here,  
As will to wonder, speak their shame or fear.  
A Yeoman's wife, handsome, young and Gay,  
Black-eyeed, to boot, whence darts slew Cupid's way:  
Was Landlady when from these Troops did come,  
Commanders to her house for quarter-Room.  
Amongst whom Flavira did arrive unknown,  
And hoped, within her walls, to lie alone.  
The Beauteous housewife, as does story tell,  
Loved youthful Soldiers Dalliance full well:  
And was especially 'tis thought that Night,  
Enamoured of one there of goodly plight.  
Her Husband old and Jealous to despair,  
Observed her looks abroad, at home, at prayer:  
And if her eye betrayed a wanton Rowl,  
It deeply frighted his Suspicious Soul.  
But she found means to keep his humour low,  
Lest his words should her Amorous Genius show;  
Saying that man does worst himself Cornute,  
That from suspicion would discourse promote:  
And how their Gentile quarterers might Complain,  
If she to welcome them, should Smiles restrain.  
For which some Testy husbands in that time  
Plundered had been to punish their harsh Crime.  
This Motive most the Covetous man Cajoled,  
Who above all things feared to lose his Gold.  
At Supper pleased they stoutly fed and quassed,  
And with the Beauteous house-dame talked and Laughed.  
And as amongst Chiefs here Brave healths went round.  
Their Trumpets did a cheerful music sound.  
When fair Flavira, as in Course arrived  
The Cup to her, had some excuse contrived:  
Or that it would not with her health conspire  
To drink beyond what nature did require.  
Until a Health, to famous Lyle begun,  
To her was offered as it passed along:  
Who blushing could not choose but kindly sip  
The Liquor as this Health required her lip.  
Which some observed, who little did suspect  
That love did, in her Visage, blush effect;  
And thought it caused from want of use and Mien,  
That this supposed youth was bashful seen,  
As he to War amongst jolly Hero's came,  
And did by modest looks their Licence blame.  
Some questioned if in Beauteous Man there were  
Form that with her smooth figure might compare:  
Or singly wished that their chance so should light,  
As they, in Bed, might solve their doubt that night.  
Supper well past, and time of rest being come,  
The better sort had Beds within that home:  
But so far straightened, as the most of those  
Did there with Bedfellows accept repose.  
Unto Flavira's lot a sole Bed fell,  
Because pretending that she was not well.  
Or was hers by the House-dam's special Grace,  
Who ready was t'oblige a Comely face.  
A transom Lattice did divide that Room,  
Where to another Bed one was to come,  
That had been to the gay House-Mistriss known,  
And for her sake was not to lie alone.  
Her Husband next she carefully disposed  
To watch his house, lest if in bed reposed,  
Some Camp retainers to these Persons might  
Imbezzell from the House his goods that night.  
Her Husband thus employed, the Gayfull Dame  
To the appointed Bed and Lover came.  
But e'er they fitted were for full Embrace:  
Her Jealous Husband, by a stealing pace,  
Himself by Moonlight to the Room conveyed,  
And on Flavira's bed along he laid:  
Which well he knew might one Man lodging spare,  
And was convenient for his eye and ear.  
So zealous is Man's jealousy to find  
Facts that when known do most afflict the mind.  
The Virgin waked, and feared 'twas some Man,  
By drink made ruleless, that disturbed her then.  
And as she was resolving soon to rise,  
His gentle whisper he to her applies,  
Desiring she'd a while herself contain  
Within her Bed, and quiet there remain:  
If she, at his request, would prove so kind  
To him that sadly grieved was in mind.  
These wo●…s she heard—  
But could not their intended sense desine,  
Or what he lying by her might design:  
Till Judging that he did her Sex mistake,  
She seemed to rest and to him nothing spoke  
Whilst ear he closely to the Lattice laid,  
And heard the Jogs within his Wife's bed made:  
At which he sighed, but sighed with greater pain  
As he loves motion heard renewed again.  
Flavira wondering why the man thus grieved,  
And judging he might be by help relieved:  
Naked, unto her smock, from bed she rose,  
Intending to put on her Manly clothes.  
When from the Amorous Wife the Gallant came,  
And clasped her round with a surprising flame.  
The Virgin soon for her defence prepared,  
As thus he, in his shirt, to her appeared.  
When he by earnest words did much desire  
That she would now unto her bed retire;  
And net, whate'er she guessed, the fact disclose  
That had that time disturbed her soft repose.  
His last request she grants, and smiled in thought  
At the adventures which that night had brought.  
And next her habit for her March put on,  
That she from this bad quarter might be gone.  
How afterwards did Man and Wife agree,  
My Muse thinks no concern to her, or me.  
Tho' she deplores the vices of that time,  
Too prone then the Royal Parties crime.  
Strong in Recruits and Valiant force the King  
His Army did to fatal Naseby bring.  
Not dismaller was Rome's Thessalian f●●e,  
When Pomp●y there o'erthrown and Roman State,  
Then the Essusion here of Loyal blood,  
By wicked Arms that King and Laws withstood.  
The Morning's 
* Called Aurora by Poetical denomination.  Queen soon clouded did appear,  
And seemed her mournful Purple Robe to wear;  
As she did her sad Throne Ascend that day,  
And saw the hapless King his Powers array.  
When Fairfax against him did Embattell'd stand,  
That Fortune might be won by armed hand:  
Who with his Chiefs accustomed to success,  
Thought Stars their Rebel Swords did therefore bless:  
When but permitted for a scourge to Crimes,  
That were their Nations in those horrid times.  
Now Heavens Omnipotent Pencil did in Skies  
Delineate marvels to observing eyes;  
By Figures, that to wonder did declare  
The just, and unjust Cause, of this vild War:  
If, on Fame's word, my Muse here aptly may  
Such Prodigies to future age convey.  
Three Mighty Shapes above did then appear,  
Vaster in Form then Constellations there:  
Whose Characters perspicuously were read,  
By large Inscriptions placed o'er every Head:  
The First of these did Piety renown,  
Beauteous her Face, and wore a Diamond Crown:  
White was her Robe, yet brighter far than Rays  
Of Phoebus when he finest them conveys.  
To Sovereignty, which next to her did stand,  
She gave a Sceptre from her holy hand:  
His Vesture such as on a Solemn day,  
Our Kingly Power and Majesty display.  
Tho' all the pur●led Stars that it adorned,  
For earthly Clory, dark on sudden turned.  
Yet still his figure Royally looked great,  
Like to King Charles when most distressed by Fate.  
To wonder next State Order was beheld,  
Or such as under Sceptred Rule excelled:  
Where Mytered Dignity, by Sovereign Grace,  
Before all Civil has an honoured place.  
And where in several Magnitudes appear  
Degrees of Nobless in the Royal Sphere.  
The short Robbed next, who from the studied Law,  
Judicial Reverence to their Science draw;  
On Seats of Judgements gravely seemed to sit,  
And aid the Public by their learned wit.  
Close unto these were seen the ruling Gown,  
And order of th' Incorporated Town;  
Where Royal Charters, Godlike do Create  
The body Politics Eternal State.  
Nor did best Science, or Man's useful Art,  
Want in this Vision their becoming part.  
Or how from Kingly Rule their values rise,  
By honour given to Humane Industries  
Opposed to Piety fierce discord stood,  
Her Monstrous figure clothed in Robes o● 〈◊〉▪  
And seemed to feed on Serpents as they hung  
Upon her Sanguine Person all along.  
Her hands did round th' Horizon Libels Throw,  
Worst seeds of ill when e'er in States they grow.  
Furious her Eyes, and had a Throat so wide  
As some thought Churches down it then did slide.  
To Aid her, proud Rebellion claimed a part,  
Demure in looks and Speech, but base in heart:  
Various as Popular Sense, her Person dressed,  
And thus she lies to Vulgar ears Expressed:  
Sister to fame, Fame did her now allow,  
And gave this Gyantess a Trumpet too.  
A Crown she wore and on it stood upright  
A Sword, whose point seemed to touch Skies to fight:  
Near to her side wild Anarchy did stand,  
The confused guide of worst disposed Man:  
Heads from her head and body seemed to grow,  
Whilst her vast hands amongst Crowds did firebrands throw.  
No humane measure could her compass take,  
For she was of the Devil's Legion-make.  
These Visions if to Allegory joined,  
All without help of Verse their sense must find▪  
Wherefore a while we'll leave 'em in the Air,  
And this fierce Battles deeds in brief declare.  
For challenge both sides fired their loudest Gun,  
ere here that early morning▪ fight begun;  
When soon their bodies fiercely did engage,  
That blood might quench their hearts inflamed rage.  
Brave Rupert first the Foes Right wing does meet,  
And gave their daring Troops a quick defeat:  
Pursued, and killed beyond their Army's Rear,  
Which Victor like he boldly Summons there.  
But no return from them he could receive,  
Other then what their Cannon-mouths did give.  
Fully resolved, in spite of this bad cast,  
That Fortune's Nick would win for them at last.  
This valiant Prince, who in Wars d●●ing Toils  
Had to his Peril oft led foremost Files:  
Was destined more by onset to attain,  
Then his succeeding Conduct could retain.  
Which sad disaster had been his before  
At Edge-Hill Fight, but worse at Marston-Moor.  
And now had by attack dispersed the Force  
Of Zealous Ireton's Fanatic Horse.  
And him his Captive did a while retain,  
Till from his fierce pursuit returned again,  
He met with foes that forced him to resign  
The taken Ireton, and the field decline.  
But e'er verse does such accidents display,  
That gave a period to this Fatal day:  
My Muse reserves, for Lyles especial Grace  
And fair Flavira's deeds, a signal place.  
Whilst other valours, to contract our story,  
Are left unto more large Records of Glory.  
This Gallant Virgin from Love's power had chose  
A Warlike Room where Ranks did nearest close  
To a Batallion then Brave Lyles' Command,  
And sought to aid him with an armed hand:  
Whilst as she saw the perils of that Field,  
His dangers there she most concerned beheld:  
And when in doubt lest he might want her aid,  
Her Soul, that else could not, was then afraid;  
So bravely did her mind Loves fear Employ,  
Till she, to assist him, did Foes destroy.  
And as she now ●…d his 〈◊〉 ess perceived,  
In Tears she fought and killed till him relieved.  
Whose valiant person having fallen to Ground,  
Enforced by weight of Blows and bleeding wound:  
She leaping off her Steed did him embrace,  
And being not known, perhaps then kissed his face;  
Helping him soon unto his horse to rise,  
And guided next his way from Enemies.  
Heroic Lyle whom grief did ●ndispose  
Far more than toils of War and hurts from foes:  
As than he weighed disasters of his King,  
And consequence which that days loss might bring.  
A Soldiers thanks to her he gave in brief,  
Conceiving her to have been some youthful Chief  
That him relieved, and thus they Galloped on  
Till he lost her among the ●lying throng.  
When furious Cromwell had dispersed this Wing,  
As he with bloody Swords approached the King:  
And stout Commanders had and Soldiers killed,  
That Furrows there with Sanguine streams were filled.  
When the Magnanimous Sovereign this beheld,  
And saw his powers by Subjects force compelled,  
As Irrecoverable did appear the day;  
Yet he as Chief, and Soldier did assay  
His Men to ●ally, and with cheerful look  
Encouraged them to stand the utmost shock.  
But how could Majesty or duty win  
Persons to sight when fear enforced their Sin.  
Who now, instead of stop, so rudely run  
As the King's forced to fly amongst their throng.  
So Boisterous waves an approved Ship convey,  
Against the Pilots will, to remote Sea.  
The Royal General thus compelled to flight  
By those, tho' led by him, that would not fight:  
With such becoming Grandeur bore that fate,  
As suited Majesties afflicted State:  
Or Prince, that of best Fortune ne'er was Proud,  
And would not by adverse in Soul be bowed.  
The wondrous f●gures that Spectators stood  
In Sky, (as here displayed a Scene of blood)  
And Order showed and Grandeur of his state,  
Now Trembled to behold this Battles fate;  
And a●t●r him, like Storms in Clouds, did fly,  
Until obscured, to sight, below the Sky.  
But Piety, Heaven's Influence on his heart,  
That in extremes was his conspicuous part;  
Above, as here described, attends his flight,  
By his Soul seen, tho' not by other sight.  
Whilst Discord, Rebellion, Anarchy, that then  
Was hovering o'er the Houses sighting Men,  
Did with their Iron-hands such Clap make,  
As seemed the Fabric of the Heaven▪ s to shake.  
The Royal Infantry of aid bereft,  
As the King's Cavaldry the Field had left:  
(Which Fate in mighty Battles does foreshow  
The valiant Foots ensuing overthrow)  
Endeavoured now by valour to repair  
The loss, howe'er of Fortune they despair:  
As boldly they their Ensigns waved on high,  
And closing of their Files did foes defy.  
Brave 
* The ●arl of Lindsey, Lord Ashly, Noble Colonel Russel, all then Eminent Commanders under King Charles the First.  Lindsey, Ashly, Russell, led their Ranks,  
And, tho' they wounded were,▪ both Fronts and Flanks  
Had by their valiant Conduct long maintained,  
With other Chiefs that with them Glory gained.  
Stoutly they here their Enemies compelled,  
And had, oft charged, their flying backs beheld.  
Till Fairfax led against 'em Horse and Foot,  
Whose Number more than Valour caused their Rout.  
Too tedious 'twere all actions here to tell,  
Or what by wounds or death the Brave befell:  
Nor shall my Muse by Catalogue convey  
The Names or Sum of Captive men that day:  
Let volumed stories such particulars treat,  
Whilst her 
* A Method in all the Martial parts of this Poem chiefly observed, to avoid a prolix mention of Proper Names, the Clogs of Poetry, and are more properly enumerated by Historical relations.  Compendium does enough relate;  
That all the brave, by Heaven's permissive doom,  
On the Crowns side at Naseby were o'ercome.  
Of whom some Thousands hence were Prisoners sent,  
And for the Houses Triumph after went  
Like Slavish Captives through London's Street,  
When foes durst there rejoice their King's defeat.  
Tho' this to Fairfax Honour may be said,  
Howe'er bad Cause, for Crime, to him is laid;  
That to the Conquered he was ne'er unkind,  
But Gentle, as became Heroic Mind:  
If not so modest that to them his Mene  
Was liker on● subdued, than Victor seen.  
And had not wicked Men his Soul abused  
By Counsels which they speciously infused:  
From his Compliance no such Ills had been,  
That did Enhance his Arms bloody Sin.  
Yet here, from verse, to give their valour praise,  
With the Encomiums Naseby's-field does raise:  
As became English blood their persons fought,  
And marks of prowess, to their fame, thence brought.  
Of whom the daring 
* He was Major-General to the Parliament Army, as is mentioned before in this Poem, and he was no less a knowing Commander, then valiant in Person.  Skippon did appear  
Highly renowned for his Achievements there:  
Who would not, tho' much wounded, leave the field,  
But fought till all, to give off fight, did yield.  
So bravely wicked were some in that time,  
Whose fortitude was depraved by their Crime;  
Or not so happy from their Souls to know,  
How great a Sin was to their valour due.  
This Field thus lost th' unhappy King no more  
Displayed his Standards as he'd done before:  
Or with joy heard Drums beat or Trumpets sound,  
As daily he his forces weaker found:  
O'repowered by Foes and routed every where,  
Until to aid him longer they despair.  
When some to Foreign Countries took their flight,  
Hoping, in future time, for him to fight.  
With these Flavira did unknown retire,  
If truth does rightly here with Verse conspire.  
Where we shall leave her unto after day,  
When of this H●roin's worth we more shall say.  
Thus swistly had the Royal Cause declined,  
The Field first lost and Garrisons next resigned;  
As them th' Enemy pleased to Command,  
Or Marched to Force 'em by an Armed hand.  
Whilst full distressed the best of Kings could gain  
No loser's Peace, which Subjects now disdain:  
As they at Westminster did Voters sit,  
And thought all Kingly Rule below their Wit.  
Neglected thus he Oxford lest at last,  
And unto Scots Besieging Newark past:  
When Noble 
* A Noble accomplished Person, now living, who Gallantly ●●fended that Town against all Opposers.  Bellace bravely did oppose  
Attempts of English and worst Scottish Foes.  
Until his sovereign out of Prudence thought,  
'Twas ●it Scots there should not be longer fought,  
But have the Town surrendered to their force,  
As for Crimes passed they seemed to own remorse:  
And promised to allay the Houses heat,  
That their King might with them the gentler treat.  
To which effect the Scots did, for a space,  
Speciously give their deeds some Loyal face.  
As they to th' Houses applications made:  
And in dispute, on both sides, sharp things said;  
That words did seeming difference promote,  
Till money came to give the casting Vote:  
For which the Scots soon sold their Gracious King;  
Whom Guarded back, the Houses Power did bring:  
And him to Holmby Palace next removed,  
And kept by presbyterians they approved.  
But this their saucy Army did resent,  
And 
* Said to have been a Tailor by Profession▪  Joyce an Independent Cornet sent  
With fifteen hundred horse to seize from thence  
The Royal Person by high Impudence.  
Thus to this Army was the King conveyed,  
And marched their Prisoner till a Plot they laid:  
That turned him over to the Isle of White,  
Where Cursed Ha●mond with a Jailor's spite  
His King Imprisoned, in the highest Sense  
Of Subject turned to Traitor's impudence.  
And thus restrained he lived above a year  
Under vild Guard in Carisbrook Castle there.  
Debarred from all best comforts his had been,  
Since hopeless then e'er more to see his Queen:  
Or Royal Children whom Heaven did Ensoul  
For highest Glory of Monarchial Rule.  
When nothing for his solace here remained,  
But what his Piety from above obtained.    

The NINTH BOOK.  
The Argument.  

In England, Wales, and Scotland Subjects rise,  
To free their King from vild Imprisonment:  
The Houses force dispose these to subdue.  
Till when on Love's account the Poet spares  
Verse, by which Rosaline retired is found,  
And Old Hermanders character described.  
Flavira's Gallantry and Fate expressed.  
Famed Colchester surrendered, and the deeds  
Of Lyle and Lucas with their ends declared.   

WHen Impious Men by Series of Bad Deeds  
Do one Complete that all the rest exceeds:  
What satire can the horrid fact explain,  
Or spread its Mediums by their broadest stain.  
Thus Gradually appeared the wicked Course,  
Both of the Houses and their armed Force:  
The Last of which compelled 'em to obey,  
And vote for Militants the vildest way.  
As Jointly they their King a prisoner made,  
And all possessed of his they could Invade.  
To subdue next his Mighty Soul they strove,  
Whilst outward Comforts they from him remove;  
Not suffering Friends, or spiritual men to pray  
With him, against bloody ends, a Christian way.  
And when their Hellish spite this deed had done,  
They Feared his Contemplation's most alone:  
Lest his Majestic Thoughts, and heavenly wit,  
Should in his words to Tax their Crimes be writ.  
On which account, they Pen and Ink deny,  
Tho' to the Sacred hand of Majesty.  
Whilst thus their Evil deeds their King afflict,  
Heaven would by outward wonders them Convict:  
As by his holy Touch the Lame and Blind,  
Their 
* That the King by his touch did cure some persons that were brought to him, being Infirm, as abovementioned, during his Imprisonment in the Isle of Wight, was cr●…ly Reported.  Cures from him Miracalously find.  
Tho', like the world's Redeemer, he was then  
Rejected by the Crowds of faithless Men.  
Whilst some admired that in his Zodiocks line  
The Sun could uneclipsed at that time Shine;  
When Royal Beams, far more divinely great,  
Obstructed were by Interposing Fate.  
Tho' virtually no Closure could withstand  
The Kingly Influence which he did expand  
Throughout his Nations, howe'er Captive he  
Was made by guilt of armed Impiety.  
When many their King's sufferings did deplore;  
And some, who'ad been his Enemies before,  
Renounced the Houses Cause, and next contrived  
That by Fresh power their Prince should be relieved.  
Howe'er, against prevalent Foes, the Outward Face  
Of war was Intermitted then a space.  
Tho' Loyal hearts disdained Pacisick hours,  
As their King lived restrained by wicked powers.  
Whilst some from Noble sorrow died for Grief,  
Because despaired their Sovereign's Just relief.  
Others unto their homes, in hope retired,  
As with their Friends they Loyally conspired  
To arm again the most Heroic way,  
And by a Second war Opposers slay.  
Thus had affairs some Monthly periods stood,  
And no Campaign fresh stained with English blood.  
An Interval in which verse does design  
To find out the retired Rosaline,  
Whom Lucas Love and valour Nobly freed  
From the Intended Rape which was decreed  
By Fierce Vanbralder, whom he bravely killed,  
And to her wish relieved her from that field.  
Who by her woman's help found the abode,  
Of old Hermander, Standing far from Road:  
And to the Chase of Whittlewood adjoined,  
Where he to quiet life himself Confined.  
Whose age compared, 'twas hard to find a Tree,  
Within those shades, that older was than Herald  
His abstinence prolonged his wondrous years,  
Which hardened were by his austerities.  
Oft Fasts he kept condoling wicked Life,  
And bloody deeds, that time of Impious strife:  
And to Chastise his body always Lay  
'Twixt hair-cloath Sheets, yet slept enough that way.  
Generous by birth, and was by Blood allied,  
As from our Muse his Mentions verified,  
Unto th' Attendant of fair Rosaline,  
Whose Care her Lady thither did design:  
Comely his Face, as smooth there white and red,  
As when a youthful Prime his visage had:  
His hair nor Beard by age changed as they hung  
In locks that Curled unto his Bosom Long.  
Clear seemed his eyes, yet could no sight retain,  
But when by wonder he did that obtain:  
At other times no glimpse he saw of Light,  
Or object usual unto humane sight.  
Yet could in shaded paths, to him long known,  
Near to his dwelling steadfast walk alone.  
Tall and erect his figure did appear,  
As he a comely Robe of Green did wear.  
With him had long a faithful Servant lived,  
Who tho' both dumb and deaf the words perceived  
His Master uttered, by whose Lips he knew,  
If Speech-like moving, what he would bid him do,  
When first his kinswoman had with him spoke,  
And told why thither she had undertaken  
To guide her Beauteous Lady, to whose fame  
Virtue and Love did Merit Jointly claim.  
Unto fair Rosaline he bowed Low,  
And his full welcome did on her bestow:  
Telling how he obliged was to that day,  
By woman's beauty the Refinest way.  
Tho' now no Leave unto his eyes was given  
To view her Feature, till the act of Heaven  
Should from those Orbs obscurity remove,  
And manifest to her his wondrous Love.  
Which in due time he doubted not to show,  
That his esteem of her she thence might know.  
Much she admired at what this person said,  
And why to her he had address thus made:  
And more because by age deprived of sight,  
He talked of seeing Beauty with delight.  
But Judged 'twas best, however passed in Mind,  
From Time the meaning of his speech to find.  
Wherefore beyond thanks, an obliging way,  
For her reception, little she did say:  
And thus a while without his house they talked,  
Till handing of her kindly In they walked.  
Pleasant and Clean his dwelling tho' but small,  
And rooms enough contained to serve 'em all.  
Of which he One appropriated with Care,  
For pious use, and called his place of Prayer.  
A decent Altar on that Surface stood,  
Raised by his hands, and blessed by him the wood.  
To this place first he guides his beauteous guest,  
And kneeling with her there some prayers addressed.  
Which done, to an apartment her he Led,  
That Neat was and contained a Handsome Bed.  
A Room within it where her woman might  
Lodge, and be near her Ladies call at night:  
Telling fair Rosaline, that he had Chose  
That Bed to give her person soft repose:  
In which an admired beauty once did rest,  
And at that word he three times Crossed his Breast;  
Adding that he, for her sake, hoped to find  
The Soul of Rosaline unto his kind.  
These words unto the virgin seemed yet more  
Mysterious, than some spoke by him before.  
Wherefore she blushing asked him to dispense  
His meaning, and unriddle so his Sense.  
To which he answered, that as yet no 〈◊〉  
He had, that could presage the hour;  
On which account the explanation must  
Be left to time, which might the deed Adjust:  
Wherefore he then no more to her expressed,  
And after Supper, brought her to her rest.  
Fully contented Rosaline was here;  
Who quiet valued above Costly Fare.  
Tho' sometimes to make delicate her Food  
His Servant caught choice birds in field and wood.  
Thus had this Virgin past some Months away,  
Yet still did longer here desire to stay:  
A place remote, and whither none did come,  
The Master Blind and Servant deaf and dumb.  
And where unknown she might best thoughts enjoy,  
Not hearing when fierce War would more destroy.  
Betimes her Bed devoutly she forsook,  
And next of Nature's Mirror prospect took:  
More pleased then in her Morning glass to view  
Reflections, which could there her beauty show.  
The early Lark she oft observed on high,  
As mounting he Sung Carols to the Sky.  
And saw how other birds did next awake,  
And their Lovesongs in Joyful Couples make.  
Happy she thought these birds, that could appear,  
So like Immortals, in an earthly sphere:  
Resembling as they Sing and as they Love,  
The Joys, by Blessed Souls, perceived above.  
But when she saw the furious Hawk affright  
These from their used abode and Lover's sight;  
And that in Air, as well as earth, lived Foes  
That could disturb the Mated hearts repose:  
She Judged It might with her distress compare,  
And what, for Lucas sake, obliged her Fear.  
Yet, this war ceased, she saw some birds could meet,  
And for past dangers Chant their Lovers Treat.  
May Heaven she wished such Bliss for her ordain,  
And unto him she'd sing when met again.  
Thus several days she passed, till one did more  
Amuse her Soul then all spent there before.  
Which time Hermander met her in a Grove,  
And unto her again discoursed of Love:  
Letting her know that she had understood  
From him, in part, what now he should make good.  
If with him there a space she would remain,  
Till his Love's Secret might itself explain.  
Much did the virgin his addre●●●esent,  
Doubting is modest were the Love he meant:  
Since she had heard of men tho' old and blind,  
That had warm appetites for womankind:  
And as she vi●●'d his smooth atd Ruddy Look,  
Her virtue ●en afresh alarm took:  
And thus concerned she moving was away,  
Till on his knees He begged her longer stay:  
Which spoken, soon by them was heard around  
A Harmony beyond Lute's choicest Sound,  
And such as heaven might give to humane ear,  
If blest with music of the moving sphere:  
When of the finest Substance of the sky,  
An Airy form descended to their eye;  
That first, Chimera-Like, appeared to sight,  
Yet did, tho' Shapeless seen, their view delight.  
It's various Beams did most refined convey  
The Diamond, Ruby, and the Emeralds ray:  
Till by degrees contracted was its space,  
And changed to woman's comely shape and Face.  
Her vest of Azure-Colour, like the morn,  
When Brightest Estearn Streaks her sphere adorn:  
Her amber-locks, unto her Bosom long,  
In shining Curls to admiration hung;  
And dallying with the air did seem to play,  
Like finest Gossamours in Summer's day:  
And as they moved was seen the Ivory white  
That in her neck's soft form displayed to sight.  
Whose presence did, by miracle, Restore  
Sight to Hermanders eyes, tho' blind before.  
●…drous intervals to him was given,  
●…'s account, by the sole Act of Heaven.  
●…ld, towards her his eyes did move  
Kind as when they, time past, assured Love.  
Tho' something more did her soft Beams Imply,  
Then Languishments of Love in Beauteous eye.  
And sometimes biushed, and sometimes smiled a space,  
Whose Blush her smiles, whose smiles her blush did grace:  
More Gay than such on virgin Cheeks are shed  
On the first night within th'espoused bed.  
To kiss her Rosy Lips he did assay,  
As bashfully she seemed to yield him way:  
But when he thought t'arrive unto that bliss,  
He could not feel the Lip he thought to kiss.  
Which she excused, and said no sense could find  
The Method by which she to him was kind.  
A Secret that hereafter he'd perceive,  
When Heaven his Soul Eternity should give.  
To Rosaline, who had devoutly kneeled  
Since miracle, she Judged, this sight revealed,  
She kindly spoke, and bid her understand  
That she would Commune with her hand in hand:  
And thus a while this vision with her walked,  
And of refined Souls divinely talked;  
Assuring her that Love could only be  
In Heaven possessed by full felicity:  
Which she found there because her youth Inclined  
T'affect Hermander with no earthly mind.  
And promised had, If she that Grace could Merit,  
To visit him, as thus beheld in Spirit:  
A Miracle he had perceived before,  
When Heaven to see her did his sight restore;  
And from above had leave now to appear,  
As by Hermander was desired by prayer,  
That she might unto her Sublimly tell,  
Whose Grace and Beauties mortals much excel,  
How she hoped soon to meet her form above,  
Where no Fate could be Enemy to Love.  
But Rosaline, who'ad of Prognostics heard,  
By holy Spirits said t'ave been declared,  
Doubting lest words by this bright vision spoke,  
Were Ominous to her Love's mortal hope:  
Whose tender Soul, not willing to allay  
The wishes which she placed on future day;  
When she might Lucas see from dangers freed,  
And to her Bosom peaceably decreed;  
Desirous was some such presage to hear:  
When soon this Beauteous form dispersed to Air.  
And as it did now wondrously depart,  
Voices were heard that sung by Heavenly art:  
As such Stupendious accents than did sound,  
That in no Humane Speech were ever found.  
Which done Hermander Leads her back again  
And, this sight past, did after Blind remain.  
When Rosaline had these strange deeds admired,  
And of his wondrous Love enough Enquired:  
He kindly told—  
That since she Leave did to her virtue give,  
In his Society and home to Live:  
The entertainment that he deemed most great,  
He had Implored as his divinest Treat:  
Which in his Love's bright vision she perceived,  
And Heavenly Comfort had from thence received.  
An object that, till then, no other eye  
But his restored by wonder could espy:  
Which Interval so filled him with delight,  
As he to see her only Cared for sight:  
Thus his discourse had of this Subject end.  
At other times he his converse did Blend  
With pleasant stories of his younger years,  
And things most facile to divert her Cares.  
Relating how his youth in war had been,  
Where bold he fought yet no wound received then.  
And wished that her renowned Lover might  
Be so preserved when next engaged in Fight.  
But wishly told her, that tho' humane Mind  
To welcome best events was most Inclined:  
Yet when no adverse-fate the Soul could ply,  
Godlike appeared its then Security;  
And next, his prudence suitably advised  
Her Guardianess, near unto him allied:  
Whom he obliged, should Martial tidings Come  
To her, by means unthought of to his home:  
No sad Intelligence or actions to declare,  
That might provoke her Lady's Grief or fear.  
Since after he had Fasting Spent a day,  
That with more Zeal he for his King might pray:  
By Dream he bloody Battles saw at night,  
And persons slain in cold Blood after fight.  
Some shot to death, some Murdered to disport  
Of Impious Men, and their Mock-Justice Court:  
Where, to his horror, he in Vision saw  
His King Condemned against Imperial Law.  
After which dream he little had desired  
To hear of War, or how bad men conspired.  
Wherefore he did with caution her advice,  
Lest Rosaline were grieved with Novelties,  
That she'd no Cruel sights to her relate,  
Or what, to him she Loved, might bode ill fate.  
To which his prudent Kinswoman replied,  
How she her Circumspection had applied,  
That no bad Tidings might such passage sinned,  
As should afflict her Ladies tender Mind.  
Tho'in due time by promise she must tell  
Great Lucas where his Rosaline did dwell;  
Howe'er remote her person might reside  
From hearing Novels that might worse betid.  
Thus they expressed—  
Whilst, as by dream, Hermander was soretold,  
His Nation Wars Eruptions did behold.  
As 
* Duke Hambleton who before had been, for some Miscarriages of his or doubted Loyalty, Imprisoned by the King at Pendennis-Castle, and being after freed, marched into England in the year 1648 and was taken, and beheaded soon after by the Impious High-Court of Justice, which wicked Tribunal had first Sentenced to death K. Charles the First.  Hambleton had Scottish powers prepared,  
And against the Houses forces had declared  
Hostility, that the Imprisoned King,  
He might by Arms to Royal freedom bring.  
Brave Langdals Levies met him in the North,  
By Risings Seconded which first broke forth  
In powerful Kent, where Goring, Capell then,  
With Lyle, and Lucas, and renowned Men  
Were numerous formed the Houses to re●…st,  
And by bold deeds the Royal Cause a●…ist.  
These Voluntary Files of Kentish force,  
Led by reputed Chiefs of Foot and Horse;  
Besides the Insurrections then begun  
In Wales, to aid what in the North was done:  
Occasion gave the Houses to provide,  
That to sight these their Army should divide;  
Who Fairfax to make War in Kent Enjoined,  
Whilst Cromwell to march Northward was designed.  
But first to reduce Wales they him Employed,  
ere by his Conduct Scots must be destroyed.  
At Maidstone Kentish valour did exceed  
Wonders, which Martial Men in stories read:  
When long there Fairfax Army did Assail,  
Before his powers by Fight could prevail.  
And if a foot of Ground they seemed to win,  
With greater fury 'twas forced back again.  
The Women here their Heroine Leader sought,  
And under her, like Amazons, then fought.  
Not Penthesilea, to assist Troy's King,  
So fiercely did her Warlike Females bring,  
As these at Maidstone, for their Sovereign's Aid,  
To repel Foes by Valour had assayed.  
Whose dauntless seed in Girls and Striplings young,  
To second them, against daring force, did throng.  
Who with sharp Stones, instead of shot, some killed,  
And streets, where late they sucked, with Foes blood filled.  
What eye could not have wept t'ave seen this sight,  
Where Children did for bleeding Mothers Fight:  
And the fair Virgin, and young Beauteous wife,  
Died, to aid Fathers, or the Husband's Strife.  
As here from Evening unto Midnight past,  
'Gainst Enemies, did bloody Combats last:  
Thus bravely they had long this Town maintained,  
Till from both Sexes Fairfax it obtained:  
Glad that his Trophies might that Glory share,  
Since women, brave as Men, opposed him there.  
Soon many Valiant did from hence Retreat,  
That they to make War might in Essex meet.  
Where Goring, Capell, had with Lucas joined,  
And Levies, which to aid them were designed.  
Tho' much the loss at Maidstone did impair  
Th' Assistance they expected in this War.  
When many, dreading of the Houses Force,  
Declined to bring them promised Foot and Horse.  
That some held sit to take into Debate,  
Whether not Wisest then to separate.  
And more recruits not Venture to obtain,  
After their first attempts in Kent proved vain.  
But Gallant Lucas, in whose Soul was found  
Courage, that did in Wars Extremes abound:  
With some disdain such Counsels than did hear,  
That seemed, tho' Wise, accompanied with fear.  
And with a Steady Confidence thus said,  
Let Rebels be of their vild Cause afraid,  
And Prompt their wicked Senate to Confess,  
That Civil War was Voted wickedness:  
ere Loyal Man to oppose them should cease,  
Or, to give up his Sword, obliged by Peace:  
Unless he would a Tame Spectator live,  
On Slavish Terms, which such Dictator's give.  
Or Piteous his King's restraint bewail,  
And Nation ruined, and yet not armed assail  
The Foes of Both: Let rather Stories say  
That Lucas, against his Life, advised this day:  
Who is resolved, if but one Valiant File  
Of Militants shall company his Toil;  
The Royal Cause shall not deserted be,  
What e'er his Stars unhappily decree.  
When Goring, Capell, and brave Lyle did hear  
This Martial Speech with all their Armed there:  
Like Men whom Mars, to wonder, had inflam'd,  
Their full resolve to do brave deeds proclaimed.  
And next their Valiant Chiefs, to quicken hearts,  
Declared their hope of aid from Northern parts;  
As Hambleton his March did thither guide,  
And promised had to aid the Royal side.  
In Essex many discontented were,  
And against the Voting Houses welcomed War:  
After Imprisoned by their force the King,  
To whom for Peace they'd duly nothing bring.  
Incited thus, a hasty March they made,  
And Colchester well Strengthened with their aid:  
Resolved their Enemies there to withstand,  
And Conquer, when besieged, by Armed hand.  
Whose Garrison Numbers could not soon prepare  
Materials for their bold subsistence there:  
No Granaries they, wanting Time, could fill,  
Or Magazines of shot that Foes should kill:  
Nor leisure had they Regular line to form,  
whilst nobler Fortified to repulse Storm,  
●n Courage they for their defence rely,  
Eowe're assaulted by the Enemy.  
When Fairfax soon his Army thither guides;  
Contriving, their distress, all ways besides.  
And in his first Attempt perceived the Town  
To bravely Man'd, by onset to be won.  
Where Goring, Capell, Lyle, and Lucas were,  
And famous Chiefs, who to increase siles there,  
Like Common Militants, for Glory's sake,  
Did ranks of Foot and Horse more Gallant make.  
Which Fairfax finding, by Wars saser mode,  
He timely straightens them with want of food.  
That Famine might force them to yield at last,  
Since no Hearts long can fight whose Mouths do Fast.  
Thus leaving him before this Leagured Town,  
My Muse a prospect takes of what was done  
By Cromwell's Conduct, as he Marched through Wales,  
Where against the Valiant Welsh he soon prevails;  
And Gallant Owen, powel, Laughorn, Poyer,  
With others famed, made Captive by his Power.  
Which being done, and full subdued that Clime:  
His furious Soul does next delay no time,  
That he with Scottish Hambleton might meet,  
And him in Field by armed force defeat.  
At Preston soon these opposite Armies fought,  
Where this Scotch Duke received a Totall rout.  
Nor could brave Langdail with his Loyal Powers,  
Joined with this Peers, prevail by blood those hours:  
When adverse Fortune had inclined to bring  
Ruin on all, that by War served their King.  
And more admired, because this battle's day  
The odds of Number on the King's side lay.  
As hapless had some Risings been before,  
In Surrcy made against the Houses Power:  
Which 
* The Earl of Holland who as the Chief Commander Rose with 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 ●f Buckingham 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 the Ld. ●rancis, who was k●●d in that Action, and other Persons of Quality.  Holland did, and Loyal Nobles Head,  
And with blood lost were swiftly vanquished.  
So ominously did Stars that time conspire;  
As best Men were depressed, and bade raised higher.  
Thus Fatal War had Royalists undone  
A Second Time, and every Strong hold won  
But Colchester, where unto highest Glory,  
The deeds of Heroes fix their Fame on Story;  
Full forty days had th●y been distressed there,  
By all the Miseries of Cruel War:  
Their numbers much impaired by bloody Fights,  
And wasted by long hardships days and Nights.  
When Fairfax and his Myrmidons thought sit,  
That straits should force that City to submit:  
As Monster famine, whose hungry Hectic kills,  
And seems to eat, tho' her Gorge never fills,  
When her devourings Jaws and Bowels waste,  
And them compel to Pining deaths at last:  
Did by degrees her Ghastly Visage Spread  
In Colchester, where scarce was Meat or Bread:  
And could not long or healthfully sustain  
Valours, that nobly did that place maintain.  
To Forage Fields they often foes assailed,  
And sustained lives as that way they prevailed:  
When their bold Swords did food the Aged give,  
And Mothers, on whose breasts, did Infants live.  
Some Virgins wept in Fear what would betid  
The Men to whom their Souls had been allied.  
Whilst other Females, more Heroic hold,  
To aid their Lovers durst sierce weapons hold:  
And like Viragoes with locks loosely spread  
On Naked breasts, and tucked up Vests did speed  
Their ready Courage to defend the Post,  
That then required such fierce assistance most.  
Thus bravely had they Loyalty endeared,  
And neither Enemy's Swords nor famine feared:  
Resolved whilst they life's sinews could sustain,  
Tho' by course food, no Force the Town should gain.  
Flavira now returned from Foreign soils,  
Where she experienced more her Marshal Toils;  
And hearing of this City's sad estate,  
With what thence might unto her Lyle relate:  
By quickest means had gathered Loyal force,  
Composed of Relics of brove Langdall's Horse,  
Which joined with others that dispersed were,  
As Holland rose in Surrey to make War,  
About an hundred Cavaliers in Sum,  
As from Fame's Lists they to us Numbered come;  
Who deeming that she was some youthful Chief  
Employed to give the Royal Cause relief,  
Gladly did to her sprightly Conduct yield,  
As she to lead 'em had appeared in Field:  
Discreetly cautious, as that time required,  
When for Brave Deeds men secretly Conspired.  
Whilst want of Circumspection oft did bring  
Ruin to such as Rose to serve their King.  
Her Tru●● Bla●●-a-Moor Page to lisle she sent,  
Letting him know by Letter her intent  
Was, with that Party, towards the Town she led,  
To aid him there or leave her person dead.  
And where the posted Enemy she'd charge,  
And by her Prowess match to him enlarge;  
Resolved that she, by days next Early break,  
Would this attempt with her best Conduct make.  
Obliging him, whate'er might her befall,  
That he'd her Name and Sex conceal to all.  
This Message highly did Famed lisle surprise,  
Her danger weighed, and ●ed extremities  
The Town endured, which could not many hours,  
In all respects, withstand opposing powers.  
Yet much admired her Loyalty and Love,  
That would thus signally their worth approve:  
Tho' with a Lovers great and tender Mind,  
He wished no Perils to her Glory joined.  
But judging that she would not now recede  
From Acting what this juncture she decreed,  
As honour and Assections brave Effort,  
Did to her Soul with Fame's best pride resort:  
Soon he determined, when she should Invade  
Their Common Enemies, that he'd her valour aid.  
Imploring Sta●s her pe●son to descend,  
And make her Victress, tho' his Life they end.  
By help of Night his Answer to her came,  
Her Page in passing having Swum a stream;  
And now as soon as Morning's Blushing light  
Streaked the Horison's Cheek; to Furious Fight  
The dauntless Virgin led her Party on,  
And from the daring Foes had passage won:  
As Lyle to aid her boldly then assailed,  
And thus both Lovers equally prevailed.  
When to their Camp their sierce opposers fled,  
And of their Numbers left some persons dead.  
Impow'red by Victory these Lovers met,  
What Martial Glory e'er appeared so great;  
Their greeting such, as in some glorious Field  
One Armed Chies would to another yield:  
When to endear their Valour's prosperous toil  
The heart rejoiceth as the Eye doth smile.  
Tho' Love 'tis sure did in their looks convey  
Some intermixtures of his kindest Ray.  
But how to serve her who such deeds had done  
For his Affection, and her Souls renown;  
Not less his thought Employed, then caused his grief,  
As hopeless he judged Colchesters' relief:  
Where sood was wanted to support the brave,  
Whose Valours did that place to wonder save:  
Doubting lest fair Flavira there might ●nd  
Distress, which above all would grieve his mind.  
Howe'er his Soul did signs of Comsort place  
Upon his looks, for joy to see her Face.  
Whose kindness with such Grandeur could appear,  
As she might least his straits or peril sear.  
And now, as they retired towards the Town,  
Discoursing of some deeds in War were done:  
The Enemy did force in Ambush lay,  
To Cut off them as they withdrew that way:  
Furious the Conssict was, as Love did Guide,  
And Noblest Valour Engaged on their side.  
When sometimes Lyle did sighting interpose  
'Twixt her and peals of shot, and Swords of Foes.  
Whilst she, his wondrous Courage to requite,  
Her Person him defends by dangerous Fight.  
Fame tells that she, by Combat then in Field,  
Had a Fifth-Monarch brawny Champion killed:  
And how an Antinomian's Head she lopped,  
That for a space upon Earth's surface hoped.  
Which seen the Amazed Enemy retired,  
And at more distance his loud Muskets fired.  
These Acts she did, and doubtless more had done,  
Had not a shot, too dismally was strong,  
Her Armour pierced and body by its force,  
That dying she was falling from her Horse;  
Till Lyle, full grieved, had stayed her on her Steed,  
At which her Soul revived with so much speed,  
As her Arm closely did his neck embrace,  
And seemed to kiss him with her dying face.  
Astonishment and sorrow filled his breast,  
More than by words and Tears could be expressed:  
In which sad posture back with her he moved,  
Her snow-white arm yet circ'ling him she loved.  
But as he stood obliged by her request,  
Resolved that vuto none should be Confessed  
Her Name and Sex: and next as Time gave leave,  
With Decency conveyed her to her Grave;  
whate'er account the future Age may gain  
Of this famed Heroine buried thus or slain.  
So Fatally had Love a period here:  
When soon the worst extremities of War  
The Town endured, as want of foods support  
Enfeebled Nerves of Heroes and th'Effort  
Of bravest Militants, who now Lament  
That they can't longer keep Cursed Famines Lent;  
And that the hungry Housewife Nature should  
So meanly Humane Composition Mold;  
As unfed Bowels might the Soul distress,  
Although Immortal, when for food they press.  
Thus had Complained the Valiant late and strong,  
Impaired by Fights and Hunger suffered long:  
And saw their stoutest Soldiers Famished die;  
Or killed, near starved, when fought the Enemy.  
The Steed that had courageously before  
His Gallant Rider in fierce charges bore,  
Now fallen in Crest and shrunk in Body stood  
Imploring, of his wanting Master, food.  
Who then instead of yielding him relief,  
Whose strength by routing Foes had sav'd his Life,  
Ingrateful made by Famines rigid Force,  
Murders, to feed himself, his belov'd Horse.  
Yet even this food too soon their Persons spend,  
That sust'ring did thus Col●●●ster defend:  
When Carcases of Steeds that tainted lay  
In Fields, where shot did them and Riders slay,  
By Force they seize, their Valour to sustain,  
Till this vild Meat no longer they could gain.  
Thus Famine, still encroaching, them Compelled  
On Warlike Terms unto their 〈◊〉 to yield.  
Which Fairfax did Indefinite Mercy c●ll,  
Tho' by their comment not then meant to all:  
As that false Court of War condemned to die,  
Brave Lyle and Lucas, to their Insamy.  
The wicked Ireton whose subtle Tongue,  
And Pen, had Mischiefs dispersed all along;  
Demurest seemed, with his White-livered Face,  
When his Soul Bloody ●nds designed apace.  
And against these renowned Chiefs had Impious spite,  
Because their Conducts worsted his by Fight:  
Whose wiles had now his easy Gen'ral won  
To kill these Heroes in Cold Blood with Gun.  
Thus Cromwell whilst he Managed other War  
In Ireton had his Cruel Deputy here,  
Who with his bold Associate Miscreants laid  
The Tragic Scene which Colchesler displayed:  
And unto England's lasting shame could kill  
Their fellow-Natives by their Merc'less will.  
Whilst Goring, Capell, for succeeding fate,  
Must on the Houses dismal sentence wait.  
These Noble persons, Great in Soul and Birth,  
Strove to o'ercome, when Men, the shame of Earth,  
Their King Imprisoned, and by wicked Gild  
The Blood of Subjects barbarously spilt:  
Whilst they, from perfect Magnitude of mind,  
Were more than Stars to aid their Monarch kind.  
And should disloyal Arms still prosperous prove,  
Resolved the Conquered Cause they'd dying 〈◊〉.  
Or if enforced at Lawless 
* This refers, for want of other Room in this Poem, to the Trials of these two Peers before the then pretended High Court of Justice, which was Subsequent to the death of King Charles the First, when Goring Earl of Norwich was saved (as was thought) by the favour of Lenthall, Speaker to the parliamentary Usurpers, but the other, the Lord Capell, Sentenced to death, whose Heroic Speech and End is well known to Story.  Bars to stand,  
They'd defy Rebels without Armed Hand:  
Deeming if there vild power their death design,  
'Twould Honour add unto their Noble Line.  
Brave Lucas first must by their direful rage  
Be brought to die on their appointed Stage:  
By Stars designed his Theatre of Fame,  
Where his last act most Elevates his Name.  
Serene and Resolute appeared his Brow,  
As when in Fields he faced the Armed Foe;  
Or from disastrous War endured distress,  
That could no Greatness of his mind suppress;  
Who thus beholding the Commanded Files  
Ordained to kill him by his Enemies:  
And how amongst spectators some there were  
That for him wept, whilst he did shed no Tear.  
With an Erected Countenance thus said,  
Death's ghastly prospect no surprise has made  
In Lucas, who would not by Mercy Live,  
If Begged to take it, which the guilty give.  
Nor can their Guns or all their pointed Steel,  
Give me more wounds then gladly I would feel:  
If killing me they would their Crimes relent,  
And to their Injured King, on Knees, repent:  
Then bids 'em boldly shoot against his Breast,  
Whilst in his Looks such courage he expressed,  
As Valiant 
* A Famous Commander under Julius Caesar highly renowned in Story for his extraordinary Achievements and Fortitude at his death: to whom Heroic Lucas may be deservedly paralleled.  Scaeva did for Caesar's sake,  
When he by numerous shot did Life for sake.  
Next whom, stout Lyle his Tragic Scene must end,  
By the same Guns that slew his Valiant Friend.  
Death he before had wished, as he beheld,  
In Cruel Fight, his Dear Flavira killed,  
And had from Love's Impulse then sought to die  
By desperate charges of the Enemy:  
Had not his Loyalty and public Spirit,  
Been more endeared by him then his Love's Merit.  
Not much he spoke, resolved that Actions more  
Should win on hearts, that would his worth explore:  
And witness how brave Subject and best friend  
In him conspicuous were to his Life's end:  
Who as he Lucas body did perceive,  
Lying near the place where death he should receive,  
Often he kissed his friends yet dying Face,  
And whilst he kissed his Eyes shed Tears apace.  
Then with expanded Arms their shot receives,  
As his last word his Murderers forgives.  
Thus died these Chiefs, above what verse can blaze,  
At least such here, as would Inscribe their praise  
Longer than Sculptur'd Lines in Marble tell,  
How Gloriously at 
* Where King Charles the Second soon after his Restauration, in 〈◊〉 of their Memory, erected a stately Monument.  Colchester they fell.    

The TENTH BOOK.  
The Argument.  

Wars last great stake at Colchester thus won,  
The Bloody Army's Insolence Improves,  
As on the Houses Members they Impose,  
And violate the Treaty with the King.  
In shape of Friend the Devil Cromwell Tempts  
By wickedest Ambition to aspire.  
The traitorous Court and Characters described  
That Murdered by their Doo● K. Charles the First.   

THE Army Leaders who by Faithless guilt  
Had Cruelly Heroic Blood thus spilt:  
Soon sound how English hearts their deeds did hate,  
And wished the Authors an accursed fate.  
T'imprisoned King, whose Soul had hoped to hear  
Some happy progress of that furious War,  
(Which his Brave Subjects for his Sceptres Aid  
And personal safety Loyally had made)  
Too soon, alas, discerned the sad Novel  
That told what them and Colchester befell,  
And how the Valiant Lyle and Lucas were,  
In Cold Blood killed, by Conquering Rebels there.  
Heroic Capell, Goring, and of Fame  
A many Chiefs whom verse here needs not name,  
Forced to surrender and attend the will  
Of Tyrant Subjects as they'd save or kill.  
Which Tidings Hammond by the Juncto made  
Their Sovereign's Jailor, boastingly conveyed:  
In hope that Grief his King's Soul might depress,  
As his Tongue durst these Horrid facts express.  
Whilst Guns, for wicked Joy, from Carisbrook Towers,  
And shouts of Foes divulged these dreadful Hours.  
The Royal Breast where streams of sorrow flowed,  
Above what Parent e'er for Children showed,  
Piously did in Secret Thought complain  
That he should Live, at that Time, King in vain: 
〈◊〉 A Castle in the Isle of Wight in which the King was then in Prison, and had been there Restrained by Hammond for several Months before.   
Since Heaven did not his Sword and prayers allow  
Mighty enough the wicked to subdue.  
Whilst grievously restrained, he heard the Sounds  
Of his best Subjects deaths, and Kingdoms wounds.  
Wishing that Heaven had his Life's end decreed,  
When Bravest Men for his just cause did bleed  
At Keinton-field, or Naseby's Fatal Toils,  
Where as a Sovereign Chief he led bold Files.  
Or if Clandestine Fate must be his doom,  
Why did not 
* This Heinous Traitor had been employed by some of the Army to Pistol the King in Carisbro ●k-Castle, where he was restrained; but as ●e endeavoured to make two Gentlemen his Assistants, that there ●…en'ed on the King, he was discovered, and accused by them: but 〈◊〉 that wicked Time ●ound favour enough to save him from death contrary to his demerit.  Rolph to kill him sooner come,  
Or was discovered ere his Piistoll shot  
King Charles had ended by their shortest Plot;  
Then to their shame let him surviving see  
A longer series of their Villainy.  
Happier he thought was Second Edward's fall,  
Or Richards, next to that, deplored by all:  
Since by a quicker guilt, usurped Power  
Forced on their distressed Lives their dying hour.  
So Seldom prisoned Monarches period have  
Other, than Murdered laid within a grave.  
Yet however dreadful unto humane sense,  
Such terrors might their dismal shapes dispense,  
He Judged, in Prince, 'twas next the Sin of Fear  
To apprehend Fates steps, however near;  
If Impious Men who had no right to Live,  
Could killing power unto Death's Sceptre give.  
Resolved, whatever his foes against him designed,  
His glory to his Soul should still be Joined:  
Cofirmed by patience full to undergo,  
What Royal fortitude could suffering show.  
And as these words unto himself he said,  
A Circling Flame around his head displayed;  
Is not some brightest Angels spreading wing,  
That did to him Celestial comfort bring.  
As thus the King divinely great here spent  
Severest hours of his Imprisonment:  
His Loyal friends, far more concerned th●n 〈◊〉,  
Feared that their Sovereign would soon Murdered be:  
As Fame's bold Tongue dispers'●ly did relate  
Deeds that Conspired with that sad Juncture's date.  
And as swift means such horrors did convey,  
By Fatal accident they passed a way  
That near was unto Rosalin's abode,  
Where then her Woman walking on a Road,  
Had met a Passenger that did declare  
How Lucas died and Lyle at Colchester.  
She having been by Wise H●rmander taught  
That by her means no Tidings should be brought  
Unto her Lady, that her heart might grieve,  
Or worst of wounds for Lucas death receive.  
This prudent Female having these words weighed;  
T'amuse fair Rosaline, on purpose made  
●…story, that no other stress displayed,  
Then that great Lucas was by Foes decree  
Banished his Country for his Loyalty.  
Having on purpose so contrived this Tale,  
As't did not only Lucas death conceal,  
But to her Lady apt occasion give  
To travel, where she thought he yet might Live.  
When Rosaline did graciously Address  
All that her thanks and wonder could express  
Unto Hermander, bidding him farewell;  
And next declared she was resolved to dwell  
By choice an Exile in Outlandish Clime,  
Hoping abroad to hear in happy time  
Of her Loved Lucas: where her woman's Care  
Long kept sad Truth from coming to her ear.  
But how her person she disposed when known  
His fatal Loss, or how she did bemoan  
Her love's Misfortune, verse can't fully say,  
Or in what Cloister was her ending day.  
Thus Noblest passions deepest did deplore  
The Impious progress of Usurping power:  
Whilst in this Nation no Just state of Life,  
But did Lament that War's prodigious strife.  
When Haughty Cromwell did in Embryo Lay  
Aspiring thoughts, to rise a future day.  
If he could first his Sovereign's Life destroy,  
And next by Bold degrees his Throne Enjoy.  
To aid which ends he Bloody Men Cajoled,  
That for King-killing were alike him Soul'd.  
But these thoughts caused some struggling in his breast,  
As guilt of Conscience would have them suppressed;  
Tho' at a time when his proud heart was Swelled,  
By routing the Scotch 
* At Preston in Lancashire, where Duke Hambleton was defeated by Cromwell in the year 1648.  Duke, and risings quelled  
Throughout the Nation, which the Royal side  
Did unsuccessfully that Season guide.  
One Evening as he Towards London went,  
Pondering past deeds and what to come he Meant:  
His Inward horror did his Soul assail,  
And against his dire ambition did prevail  
So far, that now his haughty Mind did yield  
To force of Conscience all his Bosom's field.  
And as he thus awhile had walked alone  
Near to a lofty Grove perceived by None:  
Fixed to the Ground, on sudden, his feet seemed,  
As he upright then stood in trance, or dreamed;  
Amazed his looks, erected was his hair,  
Like one that did some dismal object fear.  
When for more wonder round him figures stood,  
That from their Bosom's towards him spouted blood:  
Like streams that from the Marble Image flow,  
Whose Sculptur'd shape does some ●am'd person show.  
Their visage resolute as he had beheld  
Them sighting, or in furious Battle killed.  
But as amongst these he did 
* Which Noble Gentleman was said to be killed by the Secret Intimation of Cromwell to his Soldiers, when he might have saved his Life.  Cavendish view,  
And s●w the wounds that his brave person slew;  
And called to mind the whisper that he gave  
Which caused the death of this Illustrious Brave;  
As he unliorsed Surrounded was by Foes,  
And stead of quarter received killing Blows:  
Unto remorse his Soul did him affright,  
And seemed to wish he never more should sight.  
Admiring that throughout his wicked part,  
No Sword or Bullet had yet Pinsed his heart.  
Thus far did strength of Conscience overrule  
Horrid Designs of his Aspiring Soul,  
Inciting him to hate his former Cant,  
And Specious guilding of his black Intent,  
Whence he might Simulations past deplore,  
And vow by which he promised to restore  
His Gracious Sovereign when at 
* At which place Cromwell having formerly seized the King by his Contrivance at Holmby, where he was kept and attended by Commissioners of the then Parliament, he solemnly engaged a● Redding to restore him: Insomuch as this afflicted Prince said openly, if Cromwell had a Soul he should be restored to his Throne.  Redding he  
Weeping assured that act of Loyalty.  
Whilst Conscience thus her Ensigns had displayed,  
And by resistless Onsets victrix made:  
He thought he now could happily awake,  
When all these figures that before did take  
Their Sangnine Station to affright his eyes,  
By saddest Instance of their Tragedies,  
Appeared no more, nor had left sign of Blood  
Where he thought they had round him bleeding stood.  
At which rejoiced, on bended knees he prayed  
That their death's guilt might not on him be laid.  
And thus his Crazy Conscience for a while  
Past deeds resented, and the wicked Toil  
Designed by him in future, till his eye,  
As he was kneeling, did to wonder spy  
A Throne, that from Earth's Bowels seemed to rise  
Adorned with all Majestic Dignities.  
At which, though something penitent in Trance,  
He could not choose but cast a Liquorish Glance.  
As when a Wolf does see his belov'd prey,  
He Licks his Jaws and turns his Eyes that way;  
Although his entrails had been Clogged with store  
Of Carnage that he had devoured before:  
So did this Man, as he the Throne had viewed,  
And from that Object appetite renewed.  
But as he saw the Bloody streams and Rills,  
That sprung from Vales as well as highest hills,  
Till Joined in Current, 'twixt him and the Throne,  
They in a Crimson River seemed to run.  
This Vision more than t'other him assrights,  
Who thought it caused, to tempt him, by Hell's sprights.  
When three times a strong voice bids Cromwell come,  
And boldly seize a Royal empty Room.  
I can't, he answered, and behold this Scene  
Of Horrors, to my Conscience, Intervene.  
Then Conscience, not Ambition is the Choice  
Of Haughty Cromwell, Laughing said this voice.  
Next personated unto him appears,  
And with a 
* The Devil who in the shape of a dead friend, more to Insinuate his Execrable Delusion and Temptation, is thus supposed to have appeared to Cromwell.  Friends embrace this Chief endears;  
Having in Soul, a Patriot been, some say,  
That had in Body fought a certain day  
At Chalgrave-field, and there did wounds receive  
That did his Mortal life a period give:  
Bidding the Mighty Cromwell from him know,  
That there was no such thing as Hell below:  
Or Malefactor damned at Pluto's Court,  
Which he assured, and smiling made his sport  
At all such Tales; Nay asked him if he thought,  
As he his figure freely to him brought,  
That Souls had ever felt Insernal pains,  
Or in Hells Newgate dragged about their Chains.  
Who without leave, if called by Grand Import,  
Can to aid Mortals Night and Day resort.  
Then handing Cromwell, howe'er yet in dream,  
Boldly Conducts him o'er the bloody stream;  
Bidding him look if Sanguine Tincture lay  
Upon his person as he passed that way.  
The Chief admired to see on him remain  
No spot, as he through Blood of Thousands slain  
Had thought he moved; and to the Fiend declared  
That Fopp-like Dreaming he had Conscience feared;  
Which never more enfeeble should his mind,  
Or from his Speech a Nomination find,  
Other then as he'd speciously Cajole  
Such Factions, as for ends, he meant to Fool.  
Then swelled in heart upon the Throne he sits,  
Where being Robbed, Hell's sprights, like to some Wits▪  
Whose eloquence did him in future treat  
When he with Grandeur took his Princely seat:  
In Long and Short Robes did they Reverence pay;  
As some did there both Canting speak, and pray.  
A Monstrous Register of Hell's vast size,  
That was to Book and Proclaim destinies,  
Which by Fates Rigid Sisters had been spun;  
To Crowds of Ghost, with a hoarse Giant's Tongue▪  
Declared, the English Nation to despite,  
That Mighty Noll, the darling Son of Night,  
After his horrid deeds did height obtain,  
Should Bloodily Five years' Protector Reign.  
Which words pronounced, Dark Vapours overspread  
The Surface, with which Mist-like vanished  
The Throne and Visions, as himself he found  
Stretched out, like to dead Corpse, upon the ground.  
Till wakened from his Trance, by some such Wind  
As blustering 
* Poetically taken for the God of Winds; and by the subsequent Verses is here Intentionally described the prodigious Tempest at the death of this horrible Usurper.  Aeolus did for him find,  
When on his dying day the tumbling Sky  
Did roll his Soul to sad Eternity:  
Upright he boldly stood, and hoped the Noise  
Did but resemble future Cannon Joys:  
Which from this Vision he judged should succeed,  
As he resolved to heighten wicked Deed;  
And by his daring Spirit Ghosts affright,  
If they should him deter by day or night.  
Like one, whose fortune and his ●●most go●d  
Could have no other Fond than deeds of ●lo●●  
To dispose persons for his purpose ●●t,  
He well Cajoled the Men of Impious Wit:  
But most the Armed, of whom then many were  
That o'er their Nation strove to domineer.  
But lest they should not to his methods Bend,  
As to aspire above them was his end,  
He covertly does that Ambition Guide,  
And seemed but Instrumental to their Pride:  
As their bold Power should King and Laws take down,  
And be Joint Sharers of a Conquered Crown.  
Soon with him Ireton, Lambert, Harrison joined,  
And others that as heinously combined:  
To whom this falsest Man, thus Glozing spoke;  
How great I would your approved Valours make  
Heaven is my Witness, as I zealous pray,  
And seek God with you our s●elected way:  
If words of mine can prompt you to be wise,  
And from Inferior Orbs to higher rise,  
As you may spoils of Majesty soon seize,  
And feast at will in Royal Palaces;  
Where your brisk Wives with an exulting flame  
Shall you Embrace, and in their Queen's Beds Teem.  
Church and Crown Lands we will make spoils by force,  
And Command Senates by bold Foot and Horse:  
If first the Sovereign owner's blood be spilt,  
And 'stead of us, on him laid this Wars guilt.  
From which bold deed such powerful rule will spring,  
As shall have Rise from us without a King.  
These words when heard by men who before sought  
How vile designs might be to Issue brought,  
Like Harpies waiting for a Luscious prey,  
Agreed to fill their appetites his way.  
Who tho' their Masters with the King then were  
In 
* Which was held with the King in the Isle of Wight by Commissioners from the Houses, notwithstanding which hi● 〈◊〉 was 〈◊〉 in the time of treaty by the force of the Army.  treaty to prevent all future War;  
And near obtained such grants as without shame  
They could not Royal Condescensions name;  
When they asked more than Subjects did become,  
And left for Kingly Rule a narrow room:  
As Armed Usurpers they all Methods break,  
And once again their King a Prisoner make.  
Next purged the House of Members that did own  
Compliance by their Treaty with the Throne.  
When a Cabal of Traitors left behind,  
Of their vild Senate, horridly combined  
How a Prodigious Court they might devise,  
That should the Murder of their King disguise:  
By such pretexts as sub'tly they'd Infuse,  
And that way People, the deed done, Amuse.  
That famed 
* The Painted Chamber in Westminster the usual place for Parliamentary Conferences.  Apartment where to serve the State,  
In happy times oft Lords and Commons Met,  
And to their Loyal Glory did Confer,  
On means to make Kings great in Peace and War:  
Gave now reception to a Crew of Men,  
Whose figures Likened Fiends in Pluto's den:  
When in their dismal shapes they Counsels Join,  
And vent with Forked Tongues their black design;  
Whilst from Earth's deepest Caverns winds arise  
That Sigh as they'd Alarm Earth and Skies,  
By telling how Hell's Boldest Imps Employ  
Wit, more than usual Wicked, to Destroy.  
The Bloody Cromwell, in whose Direful Face  
His Nations Fatal Comet seemed to Blaze,  
Had Impious Men Enrolled that by his skill  
Were guided to advance his Monstrous will.  
Ireton his Ghastly Son in Law Accursed,  
Prepared their Regicidall plotform first;  
When Harison, a Butcher's Son by Birth,  
Cruel by Nature like these Sons of Earth,  
And in Cold Blood, as fame his figure draws,  
Instead of Beasts slew men to Glut his Cause:  
Thought he possessed deservedly a Chair  
Amongst such Regicidall Patriots there.  
With whom had close Caballed the Plodding Vane,  
Who had more Subtle Theorems in his Brain  
Then Schoolmen teach when Ubi's they desine,  
Or Entities which no Space can Consine.  
From some such refin'd Sistems perhaps He  
Resolved that Rules of State Immense should be.  
And if the Sovereign Power were laid aside,  
Designed no order Longer should abide  
Then the Ideas of his Brain should please,  
That with no Government could be at ease.  
Who thought the Pop'lace but his Lump of Clay,  
Which he'd, Pro●ietheus like, still ●old his way.  
And was for Pious phrase and Mene admired  
No less than if the Man had been inspired.  
Whilst Scot and Martin who did not pretend  
By Inspiration Men or State to mend,  
Did from their Vicious Taint and Lawless Soul,  
Avow that Change was Luxury of rule:  
And thought new Government was like fresh Choice  
Of Women they'd Lasciviously rejoice.  
And as this Lustful Tenent they explored,  
In fancy they with the Republic whored.  
Thus these debauch'dly had their Wit employed  
That the best King and rule should be destroyed,  
By such pernicious Maxims they'd convey,  
And Martin used at this Courts Meeting day:  
Letting 'em know that in loud Vulgars' Name  
They must their Sovereign, e'er destroyed, defame;  
And if the Charge, by which King Charles shall die,  
Be called the People's, who dare say we Lye.  
Well, Answered Harrison, thou hast devised,  
For which thou Merits to be rebaptised  
Amongst the Godly unto whom I Preach,  
And to asperse the Man did such words teach.  
Nor can ought 
* The very wicked Expression that Harrison was 〈◊〉 with at his Trial when Condemned for this Ex●●rabl● Treason.  blacken more his Rule and Fame,  
Then to shall Charged in the Loud People's name.  
Thus they conspired as each here took their seat,  
Where Regicides with plaudits them did Greet:  
And fully Numbered, by their Mutual Vote  
Did Br●dsham their grim Precedent promote;  
Whose petty fogging Genius soon embraced  
That wicked Grandeur howe'er Law debased.  
Which tells that if worst Cause be gainful found,  
'Twill want no aid from Malefactor Gowned.  
Hugon in Black Coat like Hell's Pestor there,  
As Fiends, 'tis said, sometimes that Livery were,  
Dissembling of a Gospel Mene and face,  
Prayed for their sakes without all sense of Grace.  
And had 'twas thought by help of Witches spell,  
Who was his Punk, tho' Succubus to Hell,  
Conveyed with Scripture such Prestigious sense,  
As more Inflamed their bloody Impudence.  
This vast stupendious wickedness thus laid,  
Whose Horrors did all Loyal hearts Invade,  
And like worst prodigies that Men amuse,  
More than unusual terrors did Infuse;  
When some by grief were Metamorphized so,  
As they Gray-haired before their time did show:  
More stunned with sorrow then in that sad day  
When London in vast heaps of Cinders lay,  
And Crowds by Millions did with dread retire  
To Fields, where Bedless they deplored the fire;  
Hopeless that from her ashes e'er should rise  
A Fairer Phoenix to delight their Eyes.  
In Zeal to Westminster a many went,  
At Sacred Tombs of Sovereigns to Lament,  
Doubting that Foes presumptuously would be  
With Royal Relics there at Enmity.  
Or worse than Goths or Vandals soon destroy  
Repose which dust of Monarches did enjoy.  
Tho' to their wonder each Essigyed Face  
Of Kings should weep, to pity this King's case:  
And the Famed Virgin 
* Queen Elizabeth.  Queen with Blushes shed  
Tears, in her figure, on her Marble Bed.  
One Man that Night who from devoutest Zeal  
Found means a while his Person to conceal.  
Addressed to Holy 
* King Edward the Last of the Saxon Monarches, and for his Holiness of Life Surnamed the Confessor.  Edward's sacred Shrine  
For Saintlike aid unto the Royal Line:  
When he conceived a Voice thus to him said,  
Heaven's high permissive will must be obeyed,  
Nor think Great Charles less Glorious shall die  
Then Martyred for his steady Piety.  
Whose Faith, tho' not called by Catholic Nam●▪  
Shall have a Universal Christian Fame.  
And from the Merit of his Sacrifice  
Agrandized shall the English Sceptre rise;  
And in a Second Charles and James dilate  
Above what e'er in British King was great.  
These accents uttered, or else fancied so,  
As Thought sometimes may future things foreshow,  
This devout person from the shrine retired,  
And as Heavens words th'imagined speech admired.  
Thus holy Men sought Comforts from above,  
Whilst Impious hearts were eager to remove  
The Life of Majesty, and next that deed  
Settle a Deformed Rule without a head.  
Cromwell, whose Cous'ning face could Laugh or C●y,  
As Grave or Comic was his Villainy,  
With feigned Humility did them desire,  
Not in the least to judge he would aspire,  
But serve their Common ends, like one that fought  
To raise their State, whilst he no greatness sought;  
Who to no Annals did pretend or Line,  
That could him more than private Life assign:  
Wishing his Wife and Children might partake  
No Blessing, if sincere he did not speak.  
Thus he allured 'em, whilst his Inward Soul  
Smiled to think how he'd their Ambition sool.  
And now their Bloody Court presumed to sit,  
Where Bradshaw Mouthed what he and they thought sit:  
Like Judge to Pluto was he seated there,  
And Men, that Feind-like his Pack'd-Jury were.  
Furious his looks, his Gown high Crimson Red,  
Who sat for Blood and suitably was clad.  
If Poets passed had like this heard of Court,  
Their Indignation had raised their transport  
Beyond what they of Stygian Monsters tell,  
Whose loathsome rout Tribunals sills in Hell;  
And had, instead of those, to us described  
The Representment by imps here Contrived:  
Since never of Hell's deeds, or Earth's 'tis read,  
That Goblins there or here so Judged their Head.  
Yet worse than such this wicked Court durst do  
'Gainst the best Prince till then the World did know.  
Th' Excellent King being brought unto this place,  
Where none of them deserved to see his face,  
With reason, as Majestic as his Cause,  
Baffl'd their Sense, and showed to them his Laws.  
But this must not confute their horrid Crime,  
However Monstrous left to future Time:  
When soon their Haughty 
* Feigned by Poets the Judge of Hell, and may in some sort resemble Bradshaw Precedent of this wicked Court.  Minos did reply  
That they could O'rerule pleas of Majesty,  
By power, which they held much a finer thing  
Then yielding due submission to their King;  
Yet could not better reason for it give,  
Then that it might with Vagabond Commons Live;  
As these course representatives in fact allowed,  
Who had no other title to their Crowd.  
Whilst their Solicitor, Sputtering Cook, did plead,  
That Justice was by them too long delayed:  
And of his Lordship much did it entreat,  
To make their farce-Tribunal seem more great.  
As thus Curs did the Royal Lion bait,  
And by their forked Tongues designed his fate,  
Far more Inglorious than the pointed steel  
That Caesar did from Rome's packed Senate feel.  
None there was found that durst by Loyal Speech  
This horrid Courts high wickedness Impeach:  
Until a 
* Wife to the Lord Fairfax, General of the Army.  Lady did with Grandeur say  
Words, that her Husband should have owned that day,  
By which, she did, unto their guilt, imply  
Their bold Contempt of Royal Dignity.  
So far the Woman did the Man outdo,  
Whose power could not correct their fury now.  
Above Treason's height this Court soon Sentence passed,  
Deeming time long whilst their King's Life did last:  
That at his end, Regalios of the Throne,  
By Sacrilege before that time unknown,  
Might with Church-Rapines to them Incom's yield,  
As if the spoils of Heaven they'd won by Field.  
The Rebel Soldier who from Thirst of Gold,  
And Lawless power, thought conscience richly sold,  
Conducted by the Scum of Humane-kind,  
That on State Ruin had their rise designed;  
By sound of Trumpet and by beat of Drum  
Prepared for Triumph, when the hour should come,  
In which by a New-modelled Jewish way,  
The King, their Nation's Saviour, they would slay:  
And like Unchristned Files when Martyrs fell,  
His Blood by parcels for their Lucre sell.  
To fast and pray their 
* Who for the most part were the meanest of their party, and of Low Extraction.  Leaders durst pretend,  
When to no rules of Heaven their Souls did bend:  
And could their prayers so horridly Intrigue,  
As they still more Improved with Hell their League.  
And since by Upstart force they much had won,  
And Men of place and dignity undone;  
They defied Scutch'ons because never said  
That Coats of Arms had Rebels famous made:  
Or such, in Birth, did with Plebcians' snare,  
And aught, by right, to be disarmed there.  
Yet this truth could not their course Pride abate,  
Who raised were, in spite of Fame, by Fate.  
Their Rampant Wives and Daughters that before  
Had never comely Tire or Garment wore,  
Now pampered with best Meat and pleasing Wine,  
Chose their Gallants, and, Ladylike, kissed fine.  
As thus depraved of Mankind did aspire,  
And by their Monarch's death sought to rise higher:  
The Generous English, who in Field before  
Had bravely fought to aid Majestic power,  
Now being confined to homes and full oppressed  
By Methods which the Juncto's Votes expressed:  
Wished that their separate Numbers could unite,  
And tho' disarmed with Armed Rebels fight.  
When many hearts that had before endeared  
The Senate's Cause, Abhorrers now appeared,  
As of that Body was a Faction made  
Of Men that endless Scenes of Mischief laid:  
And had appointed by their heinous power,  
To the World's wonder, their King's dying hour.  
One worthy person who sometime had been  
A bold Complyer with the Houses Sin,  
At Midnight time did to the place arrive,  
Where a Cabal was sitting to Contrive  
The Circumstance and manner of this deed,  
That to the Nations shame was to succeed.  
Half Naked was he, upright stood his hair;  
And like distracted Man his Eyes did stare:  
Who to them these words spoke—  
Dumb for some days I've been, and at this time  
My Speech restored by Heaven to speak your Crime.  
Too long alas, as my wounds may declare,  
I was assistant to your Cause in War.  
And now my Soul Englightened is to know  
What guilt was Mine, and how much worse you do.  
As you to Supreme wickedness Ascend,  
And guide the blow meant for your Sovereign's end:  
In hope to plume your Junctos Callow State,  
Which before fledged shall with you dissipate;  
As your own Armed will ●leight your sway and birth,  
And move you from your Seats with scornful Mirth.  
Does Cromwell, your Ulysseses, want deceit,  
Or Soul that swells with hope of being great;  
Tho' low your heads presumptuously he lays,  
And for his Brow Usurp Imperial Bays.  
But when his Bloody Rule shall have an end,  
You shall with one another next Contend:  
Till Anar●hy, the Leveller of State,  
Does give your confused force a final date,  
As unto Royal Power without won field,  
Your Armed Bands and Nations hearts shall yield;  
Destined by Heaven, as its restoring day  
The Throne shall have an Admired splendid way:  
When Regicidall Patriots soon shall find  
That against their hearts an Arm of Steels designed.  
This and much more to me by Vision's shown,  
Which I this dreadful Night to you must own.  
And if Fates terrors may your hearts unsear,  
Or slack the Iron Crimes yet hardened there,  
Know with affright and sorrow I beheld  
Your quartered Limbs on Towers and Steeples piled.  
And like your Treason's height erected high,  
Heads that on Bodies here I now espy.  
And Cromwell think, tho' Deathbed end you'll have,  
And with vast pomp born to an Usurped grave,  
Where for base Glory, amongst Royal du●t,  
Your Carcase shall be impudently thrust:  
That Sacred Vault it shall not desile long,  
Before thy Bones with Tyburn-Rebells throng.  
And as thy head did Monstrously aspire,  
Its Skeleton shall be advanced higher  
Than any loathed Skull whose brain with you  
Plotted both King and Nation to undo:  
Till yours and their vild relics to dust fall,  
As the Sun's angry Eye will burn 'em all.  
Enough I'ave said, and if by heaven's decree  
I'm Dumb again, and still so doomed to be;  
The Sacred Power that prompted this address,  
If penitenco it does on you impress,  
Will grant, for your sakes, whensoe'er I'm dead,  
That on my Grave that Epitaph be read.  
The Cruel Grandees when they heard this speech,  
That did their King-killing design Impeach,  
On which they placed their Avaricious aim,  
And thirst of Rule which did their hearts inflame:  
They bit their Lips, and with a haughty frown  
Denounced that he his Life should soon lay down;  
Till when to their Loathed Prison him they send,  
And hasten with more rage their Monarch's end.  
Soon to the World did Fame's loud Tongue relate  
The King's distress and his sad Nations fate:  
When Foreign hearts no less than English strove,  
For this Great Prince, to blaze their grief and Love.  
As passionately their Souls did apprehend  
That just dominion every where would end:  
Since England's rule in him, on Earth the best,  
Could not upon its Royal Fabric rest.  
Thus as the World had one great Mourner been,  
And feared the dire effects of England's Sin,  
As Kings and Subjects did at once lament  
The Horrid Nature of that Precedent:  
Like which none burdened ere the Tongue of Fame,  
Or for Man's Overt-act had Treason's name;  
That against all Crowned Heads durst vent despite,  
And vulgars' give, to rule at will, bold right.  
Allaru●'d thus, Sceptres and Mighty States  
Soon owned themselves this Junctos opposites.  
Yet did to serve King Charles so condescend,  
As, by their leave, their Envoys low might bend  
To such who had no Right to seats they claimed,  
And for their Actings worse far defamed.  
But when the August Deputies appeared,  
And sovereign Rule before vile Grandees cleared,  
Letting 'em know th'Injustice of their cause,  
With its offence to Majesty and Laws:  
By Nature's Sceptre to Mankind conveyed,  
When the World her prime Monarchy obeyed.  
Nor could they sever Ligaments of State  
Which Heaven did in the Souls of Men create.  
Tho' Fortune's sl●● has on your Nation past,  
When for your side Wars winning die was cast,  
Expect that she will soon her mean cheat scorn,  
Since you it raised, who to obey were born.  
And if with due submission you'll rely  
On duty, and your Prince's Clemency:  
Like Envoys from great States we'll Intercede,  
And beg his Pardon for your boldest deed.  
The Grandees stung to hear these words addressed,  
Which in the World's large sense their guilt expressed,  
Bearing their Noses high presumed to say,  
That of their power and right they'd judge their way:  
What e'er the dictates were that Foreign Prince  
Or testy. States by Narratives dispense;  
Whose wav▪ ring Politics, like Winds that blow  
O'er Seas their Envoys, back and forward go:  
Whilst by a t●i●●ing Grandeur they assord  
Threats by Legations when fast sheathed their Sword.  
Nor did we judge when our Votes did decree  
The Ruin of the English Monarchy,  
That Prince's Souls, where State Intrigues reside,  
Could ●e to King's Misfortune firm allied.  
Since by their practised Maxims more they fear  
A Monarch's Grandeur then employ their care  
To support Prince, whose power successless falls,  
Or rounded by Wars straits for their aid calls.  
This our assurance was when first we armed,  
And next by bolder deeds the world allar'med;  
When your great States were calmly lookers on,  
Till our force had in field King Charles undone.  
Nor fear we, as proved Legions us surround,  
If denounced War on Sea and Land does sound.  
Which told your Masters, Menacing they'll cease,  
And Court us next to be allied by Peace.  
Thus spoke this daring Juncto, swelled with Pride,  
As Crowns and States with scorn they vilifyed:  
Of which some where, as verse must needs confess,  
Who to their disrepute did soon address,  
Below their greatness, such barefaced Intrigues,  
As did with these vild Regicides make Leagues.  
And shows that King's distressed like other Mortals find  
The Courtly World in words, than deeds, more kind.  
Great Britain's Queen who left no means untried,  
That on this high concern could be applied;  
Which she from Mighty Potentates obtained,  
O'er whom she judged her Royal Husband Reigned  
A King of Hearts: And hoped that she might hear  
(Since for his Life Crowns Intercessors were)  
Such comfort as would in her Soul allay  
The dismal thought of his Life's ending day.  
But finding that unhappy rumours flew  
With sad Novels, unto her grief found true;  
Her Soul, Heroick highly proved before,  
Had chose that juncture to avow it more,  
By all expressions that a Royal Wife  
Could make to save her King, or with him end her Life.  
Who thought it was too Womanly to own  
That death should her destroy by grief alone;  
Or not salute his Lip his dying day,  
And next his fall ask death the self same way:  
Of her King's vile Condemners did desire  

* To which purpose the Queen sent a Letter to Lenthall, the then Speaker of the pretended House of Commons.  Passport to him, and with him to expire.  
This offer, (tho' the Queen had been decreed  
By them to die, as they durst vote the deed)  
Was held too great for their Sense to allow,  
Who wished her dead but feared to kill her so.  
Thus was the Period of this mighty King,  
Whose end Three Kingdoms did to ruin bring,  
Presented by all such unhuman spite  
As could display Men Monsters unto sight.  
When on a Scaffold raised by Crimson guilt,  
The Sacred Royal blood was to be split;  
As in disguises, worse than Hangings bear  
When Russian Murderers are figured there,  
Two Persons were in Beards and Vizards found,  
More dreadful looked than Bradshaw had sat gowned:  
Designed by wicked Execution to complete  
What he pronounced on his false Judgement Seat.  
By armed ●iles that were to see him dead,  
The Holy King to this dire Stage was led.  
Who but a Bishop, whom his Soul had chose  
For his Attendant, then desired to use;  
When standing on this Peerless Traitorous floor,  
His Royal Speech corrects their guilty power:  
Whilst gloriously, exceeding humane Race,  
Appeared his words, his gesture, and his face.  
The Antic Villain, who the Axe must hand,  
Emboldened was to strike by his Command.  
So highly great does his End raise his story  
Above what could have been his Earthly Glory:  
That even the Tragic Theatre of his fall,  
Adds reverence, by his death, unto Whitehall.   
FINIS.