A TRUE HISTORY Of the Several Designs and Conspiracies, AGAINST HIS Majesty's Sacred Person and Government; As they were continually Carried on From 1688 till 1697.  
Containing Matters Extracted from Original Papers, Depositions of the Witnesses, and Authentic Records, as appears by the References to the Appendix, wherein they are Digested.  
PUBLISHED With no other Design then to acquaint the ENGLISH NATION, that notwithstanding the Present Posture of Affairs, our ENEMIES are still so Many, Restless and Designing, that all imaginable Care ought to be taken for the Defence and Safety of His MAJESTY and his THREE KINGDOMS.  
By R. K.  
Pax erit haec nobis Hosti dum vita manebit,  
Cum Pecore infirmo quae solet esse Lupis.  Ovid. 
LONDON, Printed for the Author, and sold by Abel Roper at the 〈◊〉 Boy against St. Dunstan's Church in Fleetstreet, 1608.   

THE PREFACE TO THE READER.  
ONE of the Principal Reasons that induced the Author to publish the following Account, was to raise his Fellow-Subjects into a Belief, That besides our false Friends, our Enemies are still so many, restless and designing, That we ought not, all of a sudden, to grow so secure, as voluntarily to drop the Sword out of our Hands, till we see more weighty Reasons for disarming ourselves, than those which contributed to our first Equipping: Lest we thereby make too dangerous an Experiment of our Enemy's Virtue, by putting it too much in their Power to annoy us. England is yet but in the Dawning of a PEACE, and being a  Land, it can never expect Security from any Thing but an equal Force with our Neighbours; for if we cannot resist them by our Arms, 'tis in vain to dream of any other Means of our PRESERVATION.  
His next Design is to vindicate the Government from the vile Aspersions cast upon it by the avowed Enemies of our Religion and Liberties, I mean the Adherents to the late King; for as all their Writers have had the Insolence and Vanity to charge our Government with inventing Sham-Plots, and think under those ungrateful Calumnies to screen themselves from the Imputation and Gild of their Barbarous Conspiracies; so I thought myself obliged to lay open the Falsehood of these Suggestions, and to set every thing in its proper LIGHT, that the abused Multitude may see Things, as they really are, or have been, and not as the Enemies of our QUIET have falsely represented them.  
In this Undertaking I may confidently affirm, That neither the Desire of expressing my Gratitude to the best of Kings, and the most regular Establishment in the World, the Hopes of a future Reward, nor the Advantage of revenging former Piques (the common Objections against all that writ for the Government) hath influenced me in the least to deviate from what I ever accounted the Soul and Life of History, TRUTH. And to convince the World, that this is not precariously asserted, I have, after the Example of some of the most Celebrated Historians of this and the last Age, cited my Authorities all along in the Margin, which are Printed at large in the Appendix, and those the Reader may consult at Leisure for his farther Satisfaction; So that all the Business I had to do, was but to digest these Materials into a proper Method, according to the Series of Time, when the most remarkable Incidents happened, and to collect out of them what I thought most convenient to be inserted into the Narration. For,  
As the Author lay under no Necessity to disguise or perplex the TRUTH, much less to sacrifice it to any private Resentment; so he has all along taken Care to express himself in such a plain, familiar Style, as is the Language of Business, and lies within the Reach of the meanest Capacity.  
Father Maimbourg, Varillas and several other French Historians, who have been dabbling in our English Affairs; and whose Business it was, not so much to instruct the Readers Understanding as to prevail upon his Passions, have indeed observed another Conduct: Their Periods are very Harmonious, and the Turn of their Language exceeding beautiful; but still a Snake lies under their Rhetorical Flowers: for as it was not their Design (as I intimated before) to confine themselves to the Severity of TRUTH, which does not require any such Artifices to recommend it; so they fond thought to conceal and supply the Defect of it by the Elegance of their Expressions.  
The Reflections I have taken the Liberty sometimes to incorporate with the Narration are just and obvious, and such as properly arise from the Matter of Fact, and upon this Head I cannot forbear to acquaint my Reader, that it was not without some Regret, that I found myself obliged to the necessity of making them: For as my Zeal to my Native Country forced me to display the Unnatural Betrayers of it in their proper Colours; so I could hearty wish for the HONOUR of it, that it had never produced such a Sort of detestable Animals.  
Indeed, 'tis no Wonder at all, That Papists should endeavour the Re-establishment of a PRINCE, who had given the World such convincing Proofs of his Biggotry to their Church: Nor was I surprised to find Men of broken Fortunes to Herd with them, and Declare for them; for these might naturally flatter themselves to make a better Figure in the World upon another REVOLUTION; at least they could not find themselves in worse Circumstances than what they labour under at present; but that Protestants and Men of Reputation and Quality should embark in the nefarious Design of entailing an execrable Servitude upon themselves and their Posterity, or that any who call themselves Members of the Church of England should interest themselves in a Monarch's Quarrel, who in the little time he reigned over us, so ill requited them for their Fidelity and Zeal, is a Prodigy, for aught I know, not to be matched in History; and Livy, who is tedious to a Fault, in recounting unnatural Phaenomenas', has nothing to equal it.  
I am of Opinion, That he who saves a Professed Enemy against his Will, and puts him into a Capacity of Destroying his Benefactor, has a greater Measure of Charity than Discretion, and may be reckoned among the Number of those we call Felo's de se.  Invitum qui servat, idem facit occidenti. 
Now the late King had given us such Notorious Indications of his Aversion to our Religion, and that he never designed to live under a limited Constitution, as ours is; by trampling our Laws and Liberties under his Feet, by violating the most Sacred Oaths, and assuming an Arbitrary Despotical Power, that I wonder we should have so many weak headed Men amongst us, that would hazard their Lives to restore him to Three Crowns, that he voluntarily threw away, & gayeté de Ceur. 'Tis true;  
The Israelites, when they were reduced to the last Extremities in the Wilderness, longed for the Onions and Plenty of Egypt; but 'tis no no where intimated, that they were fond of Returning to the Vassalage of Making Bricks under their cruel Taskmasters, or that they dispatched any of their Body to compliment the King of Egypt with a free Surrender of their Lives and Fortunes: If they had been Guilty of such an unpardonable Stupidity, I may be bold to say, That they had been so far from deserving such a Country, as the Land of Canaan, that Lapland itself had been too good for them;  
— mutato nomine de te  
Fabula narratur—  
I will no longer detain the Reader from the History itself, wherein if he find by Undeniable Proofs, That our Enemies have hitherto been continually designing upon His Majesty's Life, and the Ruin of the Kingdom, I hope he will agree, That what has been already, may be again repeated; and therefore, That we ought not by our own Sloth or Covetousness, lead our Enemies into Temptations to attack us unprovided; but that we should always have a Defence suitable to our Dangers.   

AN ACCOUNT OF SEVERAL CONSPIRACIES AGAINST His Majesty's Sacred PERSON and GOVERNMENT.  
AS nothing of Public Concernment has been so variously discoursed of at home and abroad, as the Lancashire Plot, and that perpetual Train of Conspiracies that have annually succeeded it; some endeavouring to shame the whole by scandalous Invectives against the Discoverers, whilst others searching into the bottom of the several Designs, are not only convinced of the Truth of them, but also of the Honour and Integrity of the Government in relation to these Affairs; I cannot imagine, but that a True and Impartial Account of them, will be equally useful, and acceptable, to the Public, and because the Lancashire Plot has had the Honour not only to be the Parent, but Companion of all the other Conspiracies, I find myself obliged to begin, tho' the Series of the Narration will not permit me to conclude with it.  
The Contrivance then of this Plot is owing to the Politics of the late King James; who finding himself utterly lost in the love and affections of his People, and the Crown fallen from his Head by his own maladministration, yet flattering himself with the vain hopes of regaining by the Sword, what he had forfeited by breaking the Laws of the Land, and endeavouring to subvert the Constitution: He fled into France for shelter till he could put his Affairs into such a Posture as might facilitate his Return, and enable him to establish Popery and Arbitrary Power in these Protestant Kingdoms.  
But before he took his Voyage for France to gain Assistance from that potent Monarch, 'twas concerted by him and those Popish  Friends, that had espoused his Interest, that they should also endeavour at the same time to raise a Ferment in England, Scotland and Ireland to concur with the Designs that carried him into France, and therefore that some Person of known Experience, Courage and Secrecy should be dispatched on that Errand to embroil the three Kingdoms.  
Mr. Bromfeild, a pretended Quaker, and so dexterous and bold a Counterfeit, that he was able to personate the the Disciple of any Sect, Member of any Faction, or Person of any Quality, had this Office assigned him, and from the Earl of Salisbury's by the Name of Thompson advanced towards Scotland: Not forgetting (according to the Instructions given him by the late King) to sow such Seeds of Discontent and Jealousy as he passed through the North of England, as might ripen into an Insurrection and Rebellion, at his Return.  
He had not been long in Scotland before he effected his wicked Purposes, in laying a Foundation for a Civil War in that Kingdom, and from thence sailed into Ireland on the same Errand: Where he acquaints the Earl of Tyrconnel, how successful he had been in his Negotiations in Scotland, viz. That the Duke of Gourdon had garrisoned Edenbrough Castle, and that the Viscount Dundee would be suddenly at the Head of a great Army there, and both declare for the late King James; but Mr. Bromfeild finding the Earl of Tyrconnel, so zealous for the Cause, that he wanted no Arguments or Preswasions, to make him more active and daring, in promoting the late King's Service; he sailed from thence into Lancashire where he might be more useful; intending to make that and the adjacent Countries the Provinces he would act in.  
When Bromfeild landed in Lancashire, he intended for Croxteth, the Seat of the Lord Molineux; but for fear of being too much observed there, he altered his purpose, and took up his head quarters at Mr. Fitz herbert's of Wapra 
* Vid Mr. Edward's, and Wilson's Depositions in the Appendix.  and sometimes at Mr. Wilson's in Redland, where the Jacobites resorted to him in great Numbers, to concert what was necessary to be done for the Restauration of their old Master.  
From Wapra he often made Excursions into the neighbouring Counties, and through byways to Croxteth to confer with the Lord Molineux, and his Son, and other considerable Persons of the Roman Character. And having adjusted Matters there for an Insurrection, he returned into Ireland with his Dispatches, and so backward and forward, as the Emergency of his treasonable Affairs required. Having a safer Conveyance for his Lancashire Pacquets to, and Answers from France by the way of Ireland, than to hazard them through the several Post-Offices in England.  
This treacherous Employment was carried on by Mr. Bromfeild for some Months, the Habit of a Quaker securing him from the Suspicion of a Jacobite; but at length his Visor dropped off, and the traitorous half-faced Papist was seen through the demure Looks and canting Dialect of the Quaker. The Vessel that Bromfeild bought to transport him to, and from, Ireland, was seized by Mr. Morston for the use of the Government, and Bromfeild had certainly been committed to Prison, and tried for his Life, had not the means of his Escape out of Lancashire 
* Vid Depositions pradict.  been contrived by his quondam Host and entire Friend and Confident Mr. Wilson.  
Mr. Bromfeild and his Intelligence being once more landed in Ireland 
* May. 1689.  (where the late King James was arrived also) he acquaints the late King with the Effects of his Travails, viz. That his Friends were up in Arms in Scotland, and that the Lancashire Papists, and others were ready to engage in his Quarrel, in Order to reinthrone him, as soon as they were commissioned by him to undertake it. Nor did he forget to acquaint the late King how narrowly he escaped a Goal, and the Gallows at his last being in Lancashire; and that since he was too well known there to be sent again into that Country, he begged some other Person might he employed in carrying over the Commissions desired: Which the late King complied with, and as a Reward of these Services, made Mr. Bromfeild one of the Commissioners of his Irish Mint, in which Post he continued till the Reduction of Ireland by King William.  
If any object that Bromfeild's Agency in Scotland has no Authorities to support it, let the Reader know, 'tis not for want of them they are not produced; but for prudential Reasons 'tis thought fit to conceal them at present, there being other and farther Uses to be made of them by the Government here after at his Trial, whensoever he falls into the hands of Justice. However that I may not be thought to impose upon my Reader, if Mr. Bromfeild be told, that the Proof of that Matter is contained in the Papers under his own hand, which he sent out of Ireland by the Carver, I am almost confident he will not deny it. I equally abhor a false and partial Author; but Mr. Bromfeild's Crimes are of themselves so heinous and execrable that his Historian need not give himself the Trouble to add to their Blackness, therefore I have rather abbreviated than enlarged the Share he had in the Plot, and made no other use of him, but what serves to trace the Conspiracy from its dark Original at the late Kings going off, and lets the Readers into the Methods that began the Treasonable Confederacies.  
Here you see the Foundation of the Lancashire Plot, to involve the Nation in Blood and Ruin. And as if this would not prove a Tragedy deep enough 
* Si nequeant Superos, Acheronta movebunt.  the Murder of the King (as it has done ever since) must either precede or go hand in hand with the Invasion. For no sooner was King William settled on the Throne, but he received Information 
* Vid. the History of the late Conspiracy written in French.  that several Persons were sent into England to Assassinate him. The same Discovery was made to a great Man in Holland, and to the Right Honourable the now Earl of Romney in England, though Thanks be to God, they found no Opportunity to execute their barbarous Design.  
'Tis impossible for a sober Man to imagine a Provocation strong enough, to excuse either the committing or encouraging such a Villainy; but it seems, his Majesty's Enemies were more afraid of the King's single Person, then of the united Strength of all the Allies. And therefore resolved to take off his Majesty, by ways peculiar to such degenerate Wretches, that dare commit the basest and most unmanly Sort of Treason to advance their Interests. And this I think will suffice at present to convince the Reader of what will be more plainly proved to him in the Sequel, viz. That the Lancashire Plot and the Assassination of the King were Twins of the same Birth. And agrees exactly with Mr. De la rues Depositions at Mr. Charnock's Trial. 
* Vid. his Trial, pag. 29.  The Conspiracy (says he) to Assassinate his Majesty has been carrying on a great while, for some years, and it originally came from Col. Parker, especially, as to my knowledge of it, and that was about six years ago at St. Germains, when I was there, he propounded it to me, 
* Vid. Mr. Geo. Harris' Depositions as to Parker's being privy to it.  and said he would propound it to my Lord Melfort. So that 'tis clear, that from 1689 till 1696, there was a Design to murder his Majesty, and that Col. Parker, who managed the Insurrection and Rebellion in Lancashire, was one of the chiefest in the Assassination Plot also. My next Work is to acquaint you, how Bromfeild, having agreed the Plot when he was in Lancashire, sent over Commissions from the late King to the Northern Conspirators, to raise a Rebellion against their Majesties in those Parts. Which was to be carried on after this Manner.  
Mr. Lunt, who followed the late King into France immediately after his 
* Vid. Lunts and Langley's Affidavit in the Appendix.  Abdication, was sent from thence with the rest of his Guards into Ireland, and in May 1689, renewed his Acquaintance with Mr. Bromfeild, who was lately come out of Lancashire; and a general Report being spread upon his Arrival, that Lancashire and the adjacent Counties would rise, in order to reinthrone the late King, and that they only waited for Commissions from him for that Purpose. Mr. Lunt asks Bromfeild, if there was any Truth in that Report? Bromfeild avers it to be true, and knowing that Lunt was a bold and active Fellow, laid hold on this Advantage, to persuade him to be one of the Persons that should carry over, and deliver Commissions to some of the late King's Friends and Confederates in England. Lunt at first refused that dangerous Office, but being further pressed and courted to it by many of his pretended Friends, and particularly recommended to the late King for that Service, by the Lords 
* Vid. Lunt's Depositions in the Appendix.  Thomas and George Howard, and thereupon sent for by Bromfeild to the Lord Melfort's Office, he was there over-persuaded to shut his Eyes against the visible Danger to which they were exposing him, by venturing on such a hazardous Employment, which was no wonder, for what will not Men of a Senseless Bigotry, and desperate Fortune undertake, who hope to raise themselves upon the Ruin of their Country?  
The Lancashire Papists having now received the News, that the late King was arrived in Ireland, and had raised so great an Army there, that (as they fond thought) he would soon be Master of that Kingdom and from thence sail into Lancashire, as had been concerted between Bromfeild, and the Heads of the Conspiracy, and not knowing what Care was taking in Ireland to send over their Commissions: These Gentlemen, I say, growing impatient for them, resolved to send a Messenger of their own to fetch them, that they might be in a Condition to to join the late King with their Forces at his Arrival among them. Mr. Edmund Thrillfall of the Ashes in Goosner, was pitched upon for this Service; and the means for his safe and unsuspected Passage into Ireland, as well as his secure Returning again into Lancashire, was thus contrived.  
The Right Honourable the Earl of Derby sending every Year to fetch Cattle from the Isle of Man into Lancashire 
* Vid. John Cawson 's Depositions taken before John Patten of Preston Esq  and John Cawson of Cockram in the County of Lancaster or his Son Charles Cawson, having for some years passed been employed in this Service (and had now leave from one of that noble Peer's Servants to enter again upon that Voyage as soon as he pleased) Mr. Thrillfall treated 
* Vid. his Affidavit taken Jun. 17. 1689 before John Patten of Preston Esq  with John Cawson for his Passage to the Isle of Man, and being denied by the Father, treats with his Son Charles who was to go Master of the Vessel; and finding him more pliable, trusts him with the Secret, and for ten pounds in 
* See John Knowles' Affidavit taken before Mr. Patten.  hand, and ten pounds more at his return, hires the Master to land him at Dublin, and bring him back into Lancashire; but this Design was to be kept Private, and none of the Ships Company were to be acquainted, that they were going upon any other, or farther Voyage, then to fetch Cattle from the Isle of Man.  
About the beginning of May 1689, the Pink called the Lion of Lancashire, (Charles Cawson Master) being ready to sail, Mr. Edmund Thrillfall and two Strangers (yet unknown) came on board the Vessel, showed the Master and Mariners the Earl of Derby's Pass, and then the Pink with her Passengers, and five Mariners and a Boy 
* Jo. Preston. Hen. Knowles. Ja. Tompson. Jo. barrow. Ri. Whiteside.  in the Night time, without any Cocket, or Certificate from the Custom House, or any Lading; loosed out of Lune Road near Lancaster, and as all the Sailors believed were bound for the Isle of Man; 
* See John Preston's Affidavit sworn before the now Earl of Maclesfeild, Jun. 17. 1689.  but before they could compass it, Mr. Thrillfall proposed Sailing to Ireland, to which the Master readily consented, saying he had some Debts to get in there, accordingly they went to Dublin and continued there three weeks. All which is proved by the Oaths of the whole Ships Company whose Affidavits are to be found in the Appendix.  
Now are the Commissions preparing or the Northern Conspirators. Thrillfall and Lunt are brought acquainted, and instructed in the Affair they were engaged in: And Passes provided for each of them under the Hand and Seal of the Lord Melfort (one of which was ready to be produced at the Trial at Manchester, but Sir W. W. for reasons best known to himself would not suffer it.) All things being ready in the three week's time the Pink continued at Dublin, Thrillfall and Lunt went aboard the same Vessel there, the former carried with him a Portmantle Trunk covered with Hair, and a Sword and a pair of Pistols, the latter only a pair of Leather Baggs and Sword and Pistols, and arrived in Lune 
* See the Affidavit of the Ships Crew.  River near Cockram in Lancashire in the beginning of June 1689.  
As soon as the Pink came to an Anchor Lunt and Thrillfall pressed to be set on Shoar, and the Master was no less concerned to be quit of them, lest they should be seized by the Officers of the Customs, who come on board every Vessel, as soon as it comes into Harbour. To escape this Danger, the Offenders make such haste, that Lunt leaves his two Bags wherein were some Commissions, Declarations, Blanks and other written and printed Papers, behind him in the Ship. Which Lunt missing when he landed, he desired the Boats Crew to fetch them and bring them to him at Cockram 
* See the Depositions of Hen. Knowles and Ri. Whitride who rowed the boat ashore.  but before the Cock-loat could reach the Ship, the Officers of the Customs came on board the Pink, seized the Papers, and finding them of dangerous consequence pursue Thrillfall and Lunt; but not overtaking them deliver the Commissions, Declarations, and the other written, and printed Papers, into the hand of Authority.  
These Papers being further enquired into, Charles Cawson conscious of his own guilt, absents himself; but his Father and the Ships Crew viz: Preston, Knowles, Whiteside, Thompson and Barrow being called to account, they all of 'em deposed either in the whole, or in part, all that is related in the six foregoing Paragraphs.  
This early and open Design against their Majesties, and the Government, making no small Noise in Lancashire, the Matter came also to be examined at Manchester by the then Earl, now his Grace the Duke of Devonshire, the now Earl of Macclesfeild, the Earl of Scarbrough and the Lord Wharton. All these noble Peers being at that time in Lancashire to view and regulate the Army. And their Lordships all agreed that the Earl of Macclesfeild, as Lord Leiutenant of that County, should immediately issue out his Warrant against Lunt and Thrillfall, which was done accordingly.  
Thus far you have found Lunts and Thrillfall's bringing Commissions into Lancashire from the late King, substantially, and credibly proved, and where Interest or Prejudice can no way suspect any Collusion. I shall therefore proceed in the next Place to show you how they disposed of 'em.  
Thrillfall and Lunt having escaped the Officers of the Customs, they hasten to Mr. Tildesly's of the Lodge, 
* vid John Wilson's Depositions.  and there divided their Pacquets. The Commissions directed to Gentlemen in Yorkshire, the Bishopric of Durham, etc. were taken Care of by Mr. Thrillfall: Who having a Guide provided for him, began his Journey thither, as soon as he had refreshed himself. The rest of the Commissions appointed for Lancashire, Cheshire, Staffordshire, etc. were committed to the Care of Mr. Lunt.  
Thrillfall, pursuant to the late King's Orders, having delivered his share of the Commissions, and what else he had in charge to the more Northern Gentlemen; he privately returned to his own House at Goosner in Lancashire, and, having notice there, that his treasonable Practices were discovered by Mr. Kelly, Mr. Dodsworth, and the Commissions left in the Ship, he took all imaginable Care to secure himself there, till he could find an Opportunity of returning to the late King in Ireland.  
But this Designincountered a severe disappointment, and he with the Reward of his Treachery. For it being whispered among the Party that he was returned, it quickly took Air; and a Warrant (as I said before) being out against him from the Lord Lieutenant, he was sought after by a Party of the Militia, and found by the Corporal in a hollow Place made for that purpose in a Stack of Turffs. As soon as he was discovered, the Corporal attempting to seize him, Thrillfall violently snatcheth the Musket out of the Corporals hand, and knocked him down with it; but the Corporal recovering himself, and finding his own Life, and the Prisoners Escape in such apparent Danger, he drew his Sword, and run Mr. Thrillfall through the Body, of which wound he died immediately.  
And what but the Sense of his own Gild, and the Dread of the shameful Death, that he knew must attend it, could have forced him to such a desperate Resistance of lawful Authority. For tho' we allow him to be a Man onever so great Courage, yet we can not suppose he would have thrown away his Life as he did, if he had not known his Crimes were so great, and the Proof of 'em so plain, that 'twas impossible for him to escape the Punishment inflicted for Treason, if he should have been apprehended and brought to a Trial.  
When Mr. Lunt and George Wilson his Guide, had delivered his 
* Vid. Lunts and wilson's Depositions, in the Append.  share of the late King's Commissions to the Gentlemen, whose Names and Places of Abode, they give you a List of in their Depositions, Lunt was sent by the Conspirators to London to buy Arms, list Men and send them into Lancashire to be subsisted at the Charge of the Conspirators, till they had occasion to employ them in the Service of the late King. And this Lunt performed as appears upon the Oaths of the several Persons whose Names are in the 
* El. Langley, Mr. John Edward's, George Wilson, Law. Brandon, Robert Bradly, John Wilson, Anne eliot, Eliz. Hearst, Edw. Browne.  Margin. And now having so stocked that County with Irish and other Soldiers that it became the public Discourse and Conversation of the whole Country, a fresh Discovery is transmitted to the Government of the Lancashire Plot, in a Letter to the Right Honourable the Earl now his Grace the Duke of Shrewsbury, His Majesty's Principal Secretary of State. Dated from the Quarter Sessions of the Peace holden by Adjournment at Manchester, the 18th of October 1689.  
Right Honourable,  
WE account it our humble Duty to make his Majesty (by the Favour of your Lordship's Relation) acquainted, that many of our Roman Catholic younger Gentry, some of good Quality, have for some Months absconded, tho' we are sure they remain in our County. We have had divers Discoveries by Information, that there has been some Modelling of Officers, and Men, preparatory to their Hopes of an Insurrection; and after several too plain Proofs, tho' not affecting us yet to that Degree, as to think it material enough to trouble your good Lordship with; yet the Continuance of them, and the Observation that spreads, and becomes a Public Remark, puts us upon it, to present your Honour with the Account, that to some of the Gentlemen now absconded, there hath been sent from London Boxes with Scarlet Cloaks, and Pistols, and Swords, directed for safer Conveyance to Protestants, who knew nothing of them; and by neglect of the Correspondents, unintentionally delivered as directed, and so came to be discovered. That there hath been War Saddles bespoke and privately conveyed to disaffected-people five or six Months ago; and though our Goals are full of Irish Papists, yet we have frequent Accounts of many others at Popish Houses, and that which gives the occasion of this, is, that the last day but one, six new War Saddles were sent for in the night by a Popish Gentlewoman, one Mrs. Culchith a Widow, who hath three Brothers now absconded, and we have five Persons in Prison about them, all Papists; and the Remour so possesses the inragêd Rabble, that we are more solicitous to appease that, then afraid of what the Malcontented restless Gentlemen can do; for we are sufficiently able and vigilant, to free our Country from danger. There are some Constables and others deserve Rewards for their extraordinary Care, what we shall do with these Offenders, with these Saddles, or with other upon the like Occasions, your Lordship's Appointment according to his Majesty's good Pleasure, will with the greatest Humility, and Faithfulness, be complied with and obeyed by,  
Your Lordship's most humble and obedient Servants, H. Willoughby Ralph Ashton Ja. Holte Tho. Lever Joseph Yates Nic. Starkie Hen. Farringdon Jos. Horton.  
This Letter, next to finding the Commissions in the Ship and the Depositions of Mr. Cawson, and the five Seamen, is the first Discovery I meet with of the Lancashire Plot. And truly it's so full, plain, particular and convincing, and stands upon such unquestionable Authority and Truth: The Subscribers being Persons of known Honour and Integrity, that 'twere a Boldness exceeding all Hopes of Pardon, or Belief, to raise an Objection against it. Having thus acquainted, and I hope convinced, my Reader, that there was a dangerous Plot forming against the Government in 1688 and 1689. That they were then modelling of Officers, and Soldiers, to assist an Invasion, and raise a Rebellion. And were providing themselves with Scarlet Cloaks, War-Saddles, Swords, Pistols and other Requisits for that bloody Enterprise; my next Affairs is to acquaint you by what Persons and Methods, it was transacted, as well as the several Disappointments that attended it, till it was more fully discovered in 1694.  
The Tools they wrought with, were first Papists in general 
* See Mr. Kelly 's, Mr. Dodsworth 's & Robinson's Depositions.  who thought themselves obliged to restore that Prince, who had sacrificed his Crown, to advance their Religion and Interests. The Second were those whose Safety depended upon the subversion of the Laws, and fishing in troubled Waters. And the last were disbanded Irish Soldiers, who looked upon our Happiness with Envy, and could no longer endure to be Subjects to those they once hoped to Enslave. And truly such Men as these were the fittest to be employed in a Conspiracy of this Nature: And in all Probability would have proved, if success had accompanied their Endeavours, the most effectual Instruments, for the Destruction of our King, Religion and Country.  
Mr. Lunt having (as is before recited) sent many Soldiers into Lancashire, was returning thither in Company of Mr. Abbot then, and now, Steward to the Lord Molyneux, to give an Account to his Masters of his Negotiations in London; but in Coventry they were both seized and imprisoned, as Enemies to the Government, August 1689.  
A while after Lunts and Abbot's Confinement in Coventry, Providence so ordered it, that Charles Cawson, Master of the Vessel that brought Lunt and Thrillfall out of Ireland, being apprehended in Lancashire was carrying up to London a Prisoner for that Fact: And lodging at Coventry was told as a piece of News, that two of his Countrymen were committed to that Goal as Enemies to the King and Government. Cawson desires to see them, the King's Messenger that had Cawson in Custody consents to it, and walking together into the Prison, Cawson knows Lunt at first sight, charges him with being one of the Persons he brought out of Ireland in June last, and who brought over the Commissions, Declarations and other Papers which were left in his Ship, and for which Cawson was now in Trouble; and being examined in London by the Council, acquaints the Government with the whole Relation of Thrillfall's going into Ireland, and his, and Lunt's coming back, landing at Cockram, leaving the Papers behind them, and that Thrillfall was killed, and Lunt in Coventry Goal. Which being heard, and attested by the King's Messenger, Cawson was bound over to give Evidence against Lunt, and for the present discharged. And if this and the foregoing Testimonies do not prove, that Lunt was an Agent for the Lancashire Papists, and his bringing over Commissions from the late King, I know not what can.  
Matters appearing so plainly against Lunt, he and Abbot, Steward to the Lord Molyneux, were removed from Coventry to London, examined by the Privy Council, and both committed to Newgate for Treasonable Practices, November, 1689. Where I shall leave them, and proceed to prove the Lancashire Conspiracy by other Testimonies, and let the World see, what little Credit is to be given to that hardy Man, that with so much Confidence denied the whole Plot, and called it a shame Contrivance of some little Ministers to ruin those that were accused without Cause.  
And having already proved the bringing over Commissions, and the delivery of them, I proceed to acquaint my Reader with the Use the Papists made of those Commissions, and that will appear by the Depositions of Mr. Kelly, taken in November, 1689. before Thomas Yarnol Mayor of Evesham in the County of Worcester, Richard Earl Bellemont, Sir James Rushout, William Bromly, Edmund Letchmore and Richard Doldswel Esquires, Justices of the Peace for the County of Worcester, viz. That there was a design on foot to raise a Rebellion against the King and Queen in Lancashire. That divers Persons in that and the adjoining Counties, had received Commissions from the late King, to raise two Regiments of Horse, two Regiments of Dragoons, and three Regiments of Foot, that great numbers of Irish Soldiers and Arms for them were privately kept in divers Places in that County. Particularly that Mr. Thomas Tatlock of Simmondswood 
* Ferguson in his Letter to the Lord chief Justice Holt, Printed 1694.  near Sefton did harbour above threescore Men, for the Service of the late King. And that Arms for them were hid in that Wood That Mr. Molyneux of Marborow did harbour above twenty Irish Soldiers for the same Service. And that Arms, Saddles, Bridles, Holsters and other Necessaries for them, were hid in a Cellar under a Tower at the Entry of the House of Mr. Blundel of Ince in the Parish of Sefton. That John Holland of Prescot, and his Partner, and a Saddler in Legh, made Saddles and Holsters for them, and were privy to the Design. And that he saw and heard read a Letter in the Hands of the Lord Molyneux 's Son, from the late King James 's Queen, encouraging the Insurrection intended in Lancashire and giving Assurance of Assistance from the French King, of Men and Arms.  
This Information caused many of the Lancashire Papists to be Imprisoned; but others who tacitly confessed their Gild by flying, and were looked upon to be dangerous Persons absconded, 
* See the Justice's Letter from Middleton.  and would not be found till they had also prevented the Punishment, by removing Kelly into another World. I suppose by private Murder, for as soon as it was known that Mr. Dodsworth had also discovered the Conspiracy, that the King might not have two Witnesses to prove the Treason, Kelly was made away, and could never be heard off to this time. His Fate continues a Mystery; but whether he was killed or carried away, 'tis certain the Conspirators from that very time began to resume their Courage, which was extremely sunk upon the notice of Mr. Dodsworth's discovery. And that these were the Artifices by which they concealed the Plot so long, and frighted others from discovering it, for fear they should meet the like Fate, is too plain to he denied.  
In December, 1689. the Lancashire Plot was discovered also by Mr. Dodsworth, to his Kinsman Roger Kirkby of Kirkby Loinsdale Esq and Governor of Chester Castle, and on the 27th of March, 1690 to the Right Honourable the Earl of Macclesfeild, which his Lordship laying before One of his Majesty's Principal Secretaries of State, Mr. Dodsworth was sent for to London, to declare his Knowledge of the whole Matter, and on May the 16th 1690. gave Information upon Oath of this Conspiracy, before the Lord chief Justice Holt. And the Clamour that was made, upon several Persons of Note being seized, and Search made after others, brought it to be examined before the Honourable the Commons assembled in Parliament. The substance whereof was,  
That certain Roman Catholic Gentlemen and others in the County Palatine of Lancashire, and Parts adjacent (of whose Names and Dwellings he gave a List into the House of Commons, where the Original still remains) were entered into a treasonable Conspiracy to make War against the King and Kingdom, with design to reinthrone the late King James, and in order to accomplish these Designs, had received Commissions from the late King James, brought over from Ireland by Mr. Thrillfall to raise some Regiments of Horse, and Dragoons. To furnish which, Ammunition was provided, Arms and other Necessaries bought, and hid in divers Places by the confederated Colonels. Which Troops were to be joined by the late King's Forces from Ireland, whilst the French that were to be landed in Cornwall gave the King Diversion there, and the Duke of Berwick in Scotland: And all to be kept close and still, till the late King arrived in Lancashire, which according to the late Kings Promise, should be in a Month or two at the farthest.  
With this Discovery the Honourable House of Commons were so well satisfied, that they recommended Mr. Dodsworth to the King for a Reward of his Service to the Public. His Majesty gratified him with a present Reward in Money, and recommended him to the Lords Commissioners of his Treasury, for what Employment he was capable of; but Mr. Dodsworth being a Papist, and consequently uncapable of any Place under his Majesty, was too long forgot, and had no other Reward but what was given him by the Jacobites to stop his Mouth for ever, viz. Murdered, for as soon as that Party (who have their Spies and Intelligencers in all Places) heard there was a Correspondence between Dodsworth and Lunt, and that it was whispered, that Lunt would also discover, Mr. Dodsworth was Murdered by Mr. Deane a known and professed Jacobite.  
Mr. Edward Robinson also made a Discovery of this Conspiracy on the 17th day of March, 1690, before Richard Wright Esq One of his Majesty's Justices of the Peace for the County of Lancaster, in Substance thus.  
That Mr. Fitzakerly at Spello House in Lancashire, showed this Deponent a Commission from the late King James, for the raising Men for his Service, and Arms wrapped up in Straw, and hid under the Tiles of the House. That Mr. Fitzakerly had promised all his Tenants that would serve under him in the Service of King James, that upon the Death of any of them, he would renew their Leases to their Children. That they heard from the late King James very often, and that he had sent them Word by a Servant of the Lord Molyneux 's, that he would be with them in two Months. That John Harrington of Egboth Esq told this Deponent, that he also had received a Commission to be a Captain under King James, and that Mr. Moor then in the House (who had been a Captain of Dragoons in the late Irish Army) was to be his Lieutenant.  
Thus have I proved without any help from Mr. Lunt, Mr. Wilson, or Mr. Womball, that there was a Conspiracy against the King and Government formed by Mr. Bromfeild and the Lancashire Papists, his Confederates, as early as the latter end of the Year, 1688. That Commissions were sent from the late King James to the Conspirators in June 1689. That Arms were provided, and Soldiers listed and maintained by the Lancashire Papists to be ready at the Invasion in August 1690. That at the same time the Duke of Berwick was to invade Scotland, and the French England, and give the King Diversion in the West, while the late King was doing the like in the North. And now he that disbelieves the Lancashire Conspiracy, after he has seen it thus separately and singly proved, by Persons at great distance from, and utter Strangers at the times of their Discoveries to one another, his Incredulity carries such dangerous Symptoms with it, that I despair of seeing it ever confuted by a Miracle.  
Objection. But perhaps some will object, if the Discovery of the Conspiracy was so True and Manifest, why was not the Prosecution and Conviction of the Offenders as Public at the same time?  
Answer. I answer because the Jacobites were too nimble for the King's Prosecutors, and Murdered the King's Witnesses, before the Conspirators could (by the Formalities of Law) be brought to a Trial.  
Objection. If the late King intended to invade England in August 1690, what was the Reason he came not? All the Duke of schomberg's Forces were not able to hinder him.  
Answer. Because King William landed in Ireland 
* June 14. 1690.  in June, routed the late King James' Army at the Boyn, and drove him out of Ireland in July 
* July 1. 1690.  and that was the Reason he came not into Lancashire in August, as he solemnly promised.  
The News of this glorious Victory was no little Mortification to all the Jacobites as well as the Lancashire Papists. Yet still persisting in their restless Designs of destroying King William, and restoring the late King James, the Lancashire Plot must sleep while another is devised, and that was to gain Assistance from France 
* Vid. Lord Preston 's Trial. pag. 50.  to invade England, and to compass this End the Heads of the Jacobites in all Countys immediately repair to London, and there consult what new Measures were to be taken after this fatal and unexpected Disappointment by the Victory at the Boyn. Now Clubs are set up in all quarters of the Town, for finding they could make no Achievements in the Field of Honour, like Moles they endeavour to undermine the Government by working deeper and darker. And because the Conspirators were then generally speaking but of one Faction, and they such as made no great Figure in England, it was resolved, that the Plot to restore the late King should be laid wider, extended farther, and more Interests be united in private Cabals of their most considerable Friends, Lords and Gentlemen, both Whigs and Tories, 
* See the Result of a Controversy between some Lords and Gentlemen both Whigs and Tories, in order to restore the late King. Lord Prestons' Trial p. 49. and 56.  and that at every Meeting they should propose and debate the most effectual ways to restore the late King, and when come to a Resolution, they should transmit their Sentiments to the Royal Club (so called) in Covent-Garden, and they select the most Rational among the various Opinions, and digest them into such Methods for Practice, as should govern the whole Party.  
This Stratagem gratified all the Jacobites, by making their Persons and Opinions, considerable in what they thought so Great and Glorious a Work, and took so mightily, that in two or three Months, all were agreed to ruin their Native Country, by their unanimous Consent to these two Proposals.  
First, that the Jacobites being unable to reinthrone the late King by their own strength, they should endeavour to obtain Assistance from 
* Lord Preston's Trial, p. 49 and 60.  France, who had formerly made them such Promises.  
Secondly, since delays were dangerous, sending Letters into France hazardous, 
* Lord Preston's Trial, p. 50 and 56.  the Court at St. Germans Factious and Treacherous, that some Men of Quality, and known Ability, should go over into France to transact that Matter for the whole Party. Now,  
Every Cabal being Ambitious of the Honour of sending some Member of their own Club on this promising Enterprise, it took up more time to adjust this particular, then to agree the other Preliminaries. At length viz. in December 1690, all centred in the Nomination of the Lord Preston, Mr. Ashton and Mr. eliot, some would have had their number increased, but were overruled by this standing Maxim among them 
* Lord Prestons' Trial. pa. 55.  viz. Choose well, but have to do but with a few, for a Multitude may give, but can never keep Counsel.  
These Gentlemen thus appointed by the Party were not long before they were ready for their Voyage. And having hired a Vessel of Mrs. Jane Prat of Berkin in Essex to go into France 
* See her Depos. Lord Prestons' Trial. pa. 30. and 31.  they went on board her near Battle Bridge in December the 30. 1690, and were all taken by Captain Billup the same day a little below Gravesend. In Mr. Ashton's Bosom was found 
* See Cap. Billups Aiffidavit in Lord Prestons' Trial. pa. 38, and 39  a Packet of Letters and Papers, which declared they were going to France to promote the treasonable Designs of that Party, against the King and Queen. To invade the Realm, subvert the Government, and to restore the late King by the Assistance of French Forces. So that the Invasion Plot did still continue, only that from Ireland is translated into one from France, which is but shifting of Hands, for the Conspirators are still the same Persons.  
In January 1690, the Lord Preston and Mr. Ashton were brought to their Trials: And being found guilty of high Treason, received the Sentence of Condemnation, Mr. Ashton was Executed, and the Lord Preston discovering the Design upon Oath, had his Life given him; but how well he deserved that Favour, let his future Demeanour justify. However it quashed the Conspiracy, and all hopes of an Invasion and Insurrection are laid aside for the Present, till the Jacobites could meet with a more lucky Opportunity to revive them. And this concludes the Jacobites Conspiracies and Disapointments from the Years 1688 to the Year 1690. And engages our Thanks to God and the King, for our Deliverance.  
Now, who would not believe but that after all these Disappointments, our Enemies should have been reconciled to their own Quiet and the Kingdom's Tranquillity; but instead of giving Demonstrations of their peaceable Tempers, like sworn Enemies of their own and our Happiness; they begin the Year 1691 with fresh Attempts to destroy the King and subvert the Government. And to accomplish these horrid Designs, are continually sending Intelligence to, and receive Advices from, France, by such hardy Persons as were thought qualified to undertake it: And the Courrers, by the Assistance of Mr. Shelton of Canterbury, Mr. Nowell and Paul Pepper of Dover, and Hunt of Rumny-Marsh, for some time passed to and fro with the greatest Security. Not to name every little Runner on these detestable Errands, some of the chief of them were Coll. Parker Mr. Bromfield and his Son, Mr: Waugh, Mr. Charnock both the Crosbies', Johnson the Priest, Mr. David Lloyd Sr.— Sympson a Scotchman, who passed by the Name of Jones, Mad. Sackvile, Ingram, Mrs. Alred, and many others of both Sexes, (who upon occasion can be named:) All which in their several Turns, performed their Parts with great Applause of the Party. By this means the Court at St. Germane kept up the Spirits of the English Jacobites, and they made large Offers to the French Court, who fed them with as large Promises of Assistance with Men, Arms and Money, as raised their Hopes and Expectations into moral Impossibilities; viz. That England should be speedily Invaded and Conquered: If a Project that was then on Foot did not accomplish the Work by a quicker Dispatch and restore the late King without the Loss of much Blood. With these dark Say the Jacobites entertained themselves, and thought they obliged others, when with great Seriousness and seeming Favour, they told them there was a great thing on Foot, that would quickly re-establish the late King and confound the Williamites. And when most Men were wondering, what this great Thing should be, Providence (to the eternal Reproach of the Contrivers and Encouragers) discovered it to be the Murder of King William. For,  
His Majesty's Enemies having failed in other Attempts, and unwilling to wait any longer the uncertain Fate of War, thought this Project the best Expedient for their purpose, and this Time most agreeable. For the King being now in Flanders to murder him there would admit of more Excuses then in another Place. this horrid Enterprise with the Promise of great Rewards; 
* Grandvalle was to be made a D. and to have an Estate proportionable, and Dumond to be a Knight of St. Lazar & have 20000 Livers in Estate.  being communicated to Granvalle, a Captain of Dragoons in the French Service, he and Dumond undertook it, and travailed to Loo while the King was there to effect it; but missing their Opportunity, followed the King to his Royal Camp in Flanders, where Granvelle returned to the French Army, and Dumond, according to the Orders given him, entr'd himself into the Confederate Army, that he might take his Opportunity, when his Majesty went to visit the Grand-guards or the Lines, to Shoot him behind his Back, and then make the best of his way to a Body of Horse, that Granvalle, and Parker should have in readiness, upon a previous Intimation; to rescue and carry him off. But Heaven took Care of the Preservation of Europe, that so visibly depended upon one single Life; and whether Dumond's Heart failed him, or whatever else was the Cause, after some week's Attendance, not being able to effect his Design, he returns to the Court at Hanover, and for this Year gives over the accursed Design of Assassinating his Majesty.  
In November 1689, we lest Mr. Lunt and Mr. Abbot committed to Newgate, where they reinained twenty weeks, and then were bailed to appear at the Assizes at Lancaster. Lunt appeared according to his Recognizance, and in August 1690 was committed to Lancaster Goal for high Treason, where he continued a close Prisoner till about April 1691, and was not only maintained at the Charge of the Lancashire Gentlemen; but was Caressed and Applauded, as their principal Favourite; and now if you ask, after all this plain Proof, why Lunt was discharged, it happened on this Manner.  
When the Officers of the Customs seized the Commissions, Declarations and other Papers that Lunt left behind him in the Vessel, they forgot to set such a mark upon them before they delivered them out of their Hands, as might enable them to know the Papers again, when produced, and for want of such Mark, being unable to swear 'em to be the very same Papers, after they had been so long out of their Hands; the Government that always expressed an Unwillingness to prosecute for Life, where the Proof was doubtful, would not produce them as Witnesses against the Prisoner. Nor will I for that Reason recite their Affidavits.  
Nor was this the only Cause of Lunts Acquittal, but Mr. Cawson falling sick a little before the Assizes, of a Disease that carried him to his long Home, and the Mariners being all at Sea, there was now but one Witness against him (viz Mr. Dodsworth) which is not sufficient, in a Case of high Treason, and thus Lunt was discharged.  
Thus you have heard it proved, beyond all Possibility of Contradiction, that Lunt did bring Commissions from the late King, that he delivered those Commissions (excepting those few that were lost) as directed, that he listed Soldiers, and bought Arms for the Lancashire Papists, that two of those Commissions were seen by Mr. Robinson, 
* See his Depositions.  that the Jacobites were modelling Officers and Men, preparatory to an Insurrection: That many of 'em absconded till Kelly was made away, that Lunt was accused, imprisoned, indicted and arraigned for these Treasons, and had certainly been hanged, if it had not been for those intervening Accidents. And now let the Reader judge, how ill this agrees with Lunt's inventing the Lancashire Plot, as Taffe falsely charges him at the Trial at Manchester: and what little Reason the Jacobites had to slander him with the Names of perjured Cannibal, when what he deposed is so strongly confirmed, by Honourable, Irreproachable and  Testimonies.  
Lunt having the good Fortune to be thus discharged from Imprisonment, is again entertained and employed by his Lancashire Friends in listing Men, and buying Arms, that if the King should be taken off in Flanders, they might be ready for an Insurrection in England, as soon as the Blow was given. These Preparations having spent the Summer, and the Campaign in Flanders ended, and no News of the King's Assassination, nor the Invasion. In November 1691 they sent Lunt into France, 
* See his Depositions.  to acquaint the late King, that they were in a Condition to receive him, and therefore desired him to inform them, when his Affairs would permit him to make a Descent into this Kingdom. Lunt returns again in December following with Advice, That the late King would be in England the next Spring, and that in the mean time Col. Parker and others should be sent over with full Instructions, how to put themselves into a Posture fit for his Reception; for now the Descent from la Hogue was agreed on.  
Col. Parker and Johnson the Priest, two of the Infamous Cabal, that in Conjunction with some of the F— C— contrived the intended Murder of the King, and Invasion of England, having digested the Theory of both in France, landed in England about the latter End of Jan. 1691 to put 'em in Practice. The Murder of the King was their darling Project; and being the only Means they thought would make their Invasion practicable, and their Conquest of England speedy, was the great thing they primarily drove at, and therefore communicated it to all they could trust, 
* See Goodman's Depositions in the Secretaries Office.  in hopes to have done it before the King went to Holland; but were so long in contriving how, by whom, when, and where it was to be done, that the Time elapsed, before their Resolves came to Maturity. But this Loss of Time gave them no great Trouble, since Parker had assured them that the Assassination-Plot would (notwistanding the late Disappointment) be re-assumed by the same Persons, the next Campaign in Flanders, who had their good Wishes, while they were busying themselves about what was to follow, namely, the Invasion.  
The Scheme of this Descent was laid in France, and Parker and others sent over to communicate it to the Party here. 
* Vid. Captain Blaires Depositions before the Council.  This he did by calling their General Officers and Colonels together, and acquainting them (but very privately) That their old Master had now obtained * of the most Christian King, thirty thousand effective Men, and that when the Spring was a little more advanced, the late King, who was already marching into Normandy, would be wafted over with them into England, with Assurance, 
* Vid. Blaires Dopositions in the Secretaries Office.  that if that Number was not great enough to reduce his rebellious Subjects; France would spare him thirty thousand more. Therefore desired all to be in Readiness with the greatest Speed and Secrecy imaginable; To Captain Blaire he addressed himself more particularly (at the Instance of Johnson the Priest) telling him, he was going to his Command in Lancashire, but intended to move Southward at the late Kings Landing; and therefore desired Capt. Blaire to join him, in Regard his own Men were raw, and the Captains for the most part were all old Officers and Soldiers.  
When Parker went into Lanashire, he took with him 
Blaires Depositions in the Secretary's Office.  several good Officers, some of which stayed with him in Lancashire, and others he disposed of in Yorkshire, and the Bishopric of Durham. His head Quarters were at Mr. 
* Vid. Depositions of Geo. Wilson, and Oliv. Pearson.  Walmsley's at Dungan-hall, and from thence issued out necessary Ordens for that County. And because their Arms were (for fear of Discovery) hid in Woods, and Grounds, buried between Walls, and in Cellars and Outhouses, he ordered them all to be taken out, and forthwith distributed 
* Jo. Womballs Affidavis in the Appendix.  among their Officers: For now the late King and his Army of English, Scotch, Irish and French Papists 
* Ap. 1692.  were at la Hogue, embarking for England.  
This Alarm being early given among the Party, all the Officers are rallying together the Soldiers they had under Subsistence, and listing others. Among the rest,  
Mr. James Fountain, as Lieutenant Coll. to the Lord Montgomery, had raised a Regiment of Horse in London, and was ready to have joined the late King, if he had landed. His usual listing Places were three Alehouses in Fuller's Rents, and at Redman's at the Bottle in Devoreaux Court, near the Temple. To the Truth of which, though I need call no other Witnesses, than Mr. Day, Mr. Cousins, Mr. Willoughby, Mr. Holmes the Japanner, and Mr. Symms, who were all Officers under him, and brought Men to him to be listed, yet having by me an Authentic Affidavit, be pleased to take the Contents of it as followeth;  
M. Seaton maketh Oath, That James Fountain was Captain in the Lord Montgomery's Regiment of Foot, and thereafter Major to the said Regiment. At the Revolution he followed the late King James into France, thence into Ireland, where he was made Lieutenant. Coll. to Coll. Cannon's Regiment. From Ireland he went into Scotland and joined the Viscount Dundee, and a little after the Highlands were reduced, he came to London, and lived Incognito; but when the French were at la Hogue in order to invade England, Fountain did buy a considerable Number of Horses, and Accoutrements for Horses, and Riders he had provided for them, and did keep the said Riders under Pay and Subsistence to serve King James, and join him and the French at their Landing.  
Jurat. 2, Julij 1694. Coram me James Vernon. M. Seaton.  
Colonel Holman was at the same time raising, and had almost completed, another Regiment to join the French at their Landing: And to subsist those that were actually listed, he paid fifty Pounds one Week, fifty Pounds the next Week, and thirty Pounds the Week following, to Captain Brice Blaire, 
* See Mr. Blair's and Mr. Bertrams Depositions in the Secretaries Office.  who distributed it among the Soldiers, by the Hands of Mr. Bertram, as appears by their Depositions in the Hands of the Government, but after the Defeat at la Hogue, Mr. Holman would pay no more. To these Instances of the Jacobites Attempts to ruin the Government, add but the Share that Sir John Friend, Sir William Perkins, and the Persons of Quality in other Parts of the Kingdom mentioned in Crosby's Papers had in it, 
* See Crosby's orginal Papers page.—  and then tell me, whether the Enemies of the Government, and their repeated Conspiracies, aught to be so much slighted and despised; and reckoned so inconsiderable in their Numbers, and weak in their Power and Interests, as some (out of no good design I fear) would have them thought to be. For all these wicked Confederacies, and those mentioned by Crosby, are but Branches of the Lancashire Conspiracy, which at first was thought but the Capriccios of light Heads, but you now see it spread almost over the whole Kingdom: And justly roused the Government, to prosecute the first Contrivers of so much intended Mischief, to the King and Kingdom.  
Nor were these Preparations for the Invasion the only part of the Plot against England; for whilst the English Jacobites are bandying together to join their old Master at his Landing, the King's Enemies beyond-Sea are as hot and forward in their cursed Design to Murder his Majesty in Flanders, that so the Invasion might find us all in a Confusion, and for want of a King and a Government, scattered like Sheep, without a Shepherd, and consequently the easier Prey to our Foreign and Intestine Devourers. For now Granvalle returning from Paris, where he had engaged one Leefedale to join with Dumont in the Murder of King William, appoints a Meeting at Uden, whither Dumont was to come from Hanover, and both to go from thence into Flanders: Where as soon as the Murder was committed, Mounsieur Chandlois, with a Party of 300 Horse from the Duke of Luxemburg's Army, was to be posted at the advanced Guards, to rescue the Murderers, and persuade the World, the Assassination of King William was a Stratagem of War; but God Almighty confounded their hellish Politics. Dumont and Leefedale discovered the Conspiracy. Granvalle was taken, and received the Reward of his Villainy, after he had made (without being put to the Torture) a full Confession of his Crimes. At his Execution he seemed very Penitent, and declared with some Resentment, that he was ruined by the Authors of that detestable Project.  
Matters being thus settled by the King's Enemies on the other side of the Water for his Assassination in Flanders, and the Invasion carrying on by the Conduct of Colonel Parker and the rest of the confederate Colonels, and other Officers in England, and every one acquainted with the Design, all Jacobite Eyes were fixed upon the Weathercocks, and the first Salutation was how's the Wind, which standing long in a Protestant Quarter of Heaven, some of them were silly enough to curse it, saying 'twould serve them as Treacherously now as it did at the Revolution. However that nothing might be omitted on their Part, they send an Express to the Lord Melfort, by Captain Lloyd, acquainting his Lordship, that they had corrupted many of our English Sea Commanders, who would go over to the French, and with that Notice, a true List of the Number and Rates of the English Fleet, and how long it would be, before it was possible they could be joined by the Dutch. Praying his Lordship to lay it before the most Christian King, and procure his Command to Marshal Tourville, to seek and immediately sight the English, before they could be joined by the Dutch. And now the Jacobites thought they had nothing to do, but to kill and take possession. And therefore were as Insolent and Unsufferable in their Behaviour before the Engagement, as their Fears ' and Cowardice were apparent after it.  
Whilst the Jacobites were pleasing themselves with the hopes of approaching Wealth and Opulence, the great thing that put a damp upon their Mirth, was the various Reports abonut the joining of the English and Dutch Fleets. Once they had notice they were joined, but being contradicted the next day, lest that Report should have Influence upon the French, they send over Sir Adam Blaire, to assure the French they were not joined. But so it happened before that Gentleman could reach Dover, they had good Assurance, that the Fleets were joined indeed; and therefore 
* Mr. Clark is now in England and I appeal to him for the Truth of it.  Mr. Clark, better known by the nickname of Count Cl. is posted into France to acquaint them with this fatal Junction; but the Count was so far from gaining Credit to his Report (Sir Adam Blaire averring the contrary) that Mr. Clark was imprisoned, as a spreader of false News, till the late King owning him, and their being beaten, procured his Liberty.  
But whilst the Queen's Majesty, of blessed Memory, was taking such measures as might frustrate their wicked Designs, and secure the Nation; and all Men gazing in dubious Expectations of the Event, comes the happy 20th of May 1692, with the joyful News, that through the Providence of our good God, and the Valour of our courageous Seamen, the French Fleet was beaten off lafoy Hogue, and their Majesty's victorious Navy was pursuing, burning and sinking those that by flying endeavoured to escape. And not long after, to make our Joy complete, was brought the Notice of Granval's Execution. Both, great and miraculous Deliverances. For,  
This Year the ultra Marine and English Jacobites were resolved to play all their Engines at once. The French King was to be in Flanders, Namure was to be besieged, King James was to land in England, and his Majesty was to be murdered all about the same time. Here are Plots with a Witness, and all so substantially proved, that the very Thought so crushes me with Horror and Amazement, that I tremble to think what the Consequences of them would have been, if they had succeeded, for 'tis much more easy to imagine then express, what a dismal Scene of Barbarity and Cruelty, of Blood and Horror, must have followed in England, and the greatest Part of Europe; but the Snare is broken, and we are delivered for which we ought to be Eternally thankful.  
This is the fifth Disappointment of the Jacobian Plot, began in Lancashire in 1688. First, by Kelly's and Dodsworth's Discovery in 1689. Then, by King William's Victory at the Boyne in July 1690. Next, by seizing the Lord Preston and Mr. Ashton in December 1690. Fourthly, by Dumont's Disappointment. And Lastly, by the detecting of Granvalle, and beating the French at la Hogue in 1692.  
However, that they might prove themselves such, as neither Mercies not Judgements could effect, about Michaelmas 1692, these Malcontents, through the Clemency of the Government, assumed the Confidence to cabal again, to find out some new Conspiracy, or rather to revive those two old ones, of Assassination and Invasion, by some more secret Methods than they had hitherto found out. And that they might not commit the same Solecisms again, like grave Politicians, they first inquire into the former Miscarriages, and particularly that at la Hogue. And 'twas agreed among them, that Marshal Turville's not fight the English, before they were joined by the Dutch, was the Cause of the Overthrow that happened afterwards; That it was originally, if not designedly, the Lord Melfort's Fault: In not giving the Notices which he received from England, time enough to the French Court (viz. to fight the English, before they were joined by the Dutch) but suffering the Time prefixed by his English Advices to be worn out, 'ere he communicated what he had in Charge to deliver immediately. Hereupon great Complaints are made to the late King against the Lord Melfort's Ministry, and in plain Terms they tell the late King, unless Melfort be removed they will concern themselves no 
* Vid. Letters against Melfort in Crosby's Papers.  more in his Affairs.  
The Popish Jacobites defend Melfort with their utmost Art and Interest, and lay the Miscarriages at la Hogue 
* Vid Letters on Melforts behalf.  upon the Protestant Compounders, and so far engage the Court of Rome in their quarrel, that the late King's Pension from the Pope was taken off, for siding with Heretics. But the Protestants, who had gained some Papists to their Party against Melfort, making use of Sir— Sympson a Scotch Knight (then, and still residing at St. Germane by the Name of Jones) between whom and Melfort there was an old Grudge, he staggered the Lord Melfort in the Opinion of the late King, and the French Court, and when Sir James Montgomery came over, he threw him quite out of Favour, insomuch that he was forced to leave St. Germane and retire to—  
In the mean time two such strong Parties were formed at St. Germane, that the late King (according to his usual Politics of altering his Measures according to the Variety of his Circumstances) took the Lord Middleton into his Counsels, and employed both him and the Lord Melfort by Turns, as his Affaris required. And these Transactions made an end of the Year 1692.  
Both the Jacobite Parties being now seemingly pleased in having each their Favourite at the Helm (for Sir James Montgomery was not yet come into France) the Murder of King William, and the Invasion of England are again revived. The Management of the Invasion is committed to Sir Sympson, Major Crosby, Captain Lloyd and Mr. Walter Crosby. Sympson and Lloyd came and went over several times about it in the beginning of the Year 1693, continued so doing till June following; and then having laid the Plan for an Invasion, returned into France in August following.  
Major Crosby (as he was commonly called) came into England about Michaelmas 1693, stayed in London a while, went down into Lancashire, and from thence returned into France.  
Mr. Walter Crosby, Son of Sir Thomas Crosby (a Member of the late King's Parliament in Ireland) was educated in Dublin College, and left that Society, to carry Intelligence into France. From thence, through Flanders and England, he returned into Ireland, and under the Disguise of a Williamite, contributed his utmost to the Destruction of his Native Country, till the Seizure of his Letters discovered him and made him a Prisoner; but being admitted to Bail he lest his Security in the Lurch, and escaped into France, and his former Management of Affairs gave him so much Credit at St. Germane, that the Revival of the Plot for an Invasion, Insurrection and Rebellion, was at last solely committed to his Management.  
November 1693, to the great Satisfaction of the Party, he lands in England; brings Colonel Parker again out of Lancashire to London, revives their former Cabals, and adds fresh Life and Vigour to their drooping Spirits. Jacobite Meetings are now more frequent and numerous, in order to draw up such Proposals as might satisfy the Court of France, that the Conquest of England was both practicable and easy.  
I have now showed you by what means they were carrying on the Invasion, and must now leave Mr. Crosby at his Work (in collecting the Sentiments of the Jacobites, and putting them into such a Method as might persuade the French King to assist them with Men and Arms to restore the late King) and return to the Assassination Plot, which always preceded or kept Pace with the Invasion. And this calls me back to one of the first Contrivers of it;  
The Lord Melfort, who had still some small share in the Management of public Affairs, finding his Interest sinking proportionably with the hopes of conquering England, resolves to recover his former Credit, by pushing on the Assassination of King William, by any Methods that would effect it. To this end, his old Confidents Colonel Parker 
* Vid Mr. La rues Depositions at Charnocks Trial.  and Johnson the Priest being absent, he takes to his Assistance, Mr. Bromfeild and Captain Griffin, who promised in a short time to give him a good Account of his Project, from some Friends they had about Dover, which it seems they had already engaged in this wicked 
* Vid Lunt's Depositions in the Appendix.  Enterprise, at the Instigation of some more concealed and private Person. And whilst they were thus in Expectation from Dover, another Occasion to strengthen the Number of those already engaged, seemed to offer itself, thus,  
The Lancashire Gentlemen being willing to pay their Devoir to the late King, and to receive his Commands as they usually did by a Messenger of their own from his Lips. Mr. Lunt whose Services and Sufferings had rendered him the Confident of the Party, was sent by the Lord Molyneux and others on this Errand into France, July the 3d 1693. coming to St. Germane, he delivered his Message to the late King in his Closet, the Lord Melfort being present: Who thinking he had now a fit Opportunity to execute his Plot, and Assassinate King William, he sends Lunt to Mr. Griffin, telling him that Griffin had an Affair to engage him in. Captain Griffin sends him to his old Friend Mr. Bromfeild, who after bewailing the ill Success that had so long attended the late King's Affairs, told Lunt, they were now upon a quicker Expedient for their Master's Restoration, and that was, to cut off the Prince of Orange (for so they call King William) by any way or method the 
* Vid Lunt's Depositions in the Appendix.  Undertakers should think fit, and if Mr. Lunt would make one in that Service, he should have a Reward of five hundred Pounds a Year. Lunt consented, and after various Discourses at sundry Times upon this Subject, Lunt taking his leave of the Lord Melfort, his Lordship told him, that if the Design that Grissin and Bromfeild had imparted to him took Effect, the late King would soon be in England. And Bromfeild at Lunt's departure gave him a Signet to carry to the Persons, that, as Bromfeild told him, were in the same Design.  
In December 1693, Lunt arrived at Dover, and met with four of the sixteen Persons that were engaged in the Assassination of the King 
* See Lunt's Depositions in the Appendix.  viz. Captain Nowell of Dover, Captain Walton of Foulston, Mr. Pepper of Dover and Mr. Preston of Feversham; two of which acknowledged that they were in the Design of killing the King, and made no question but in a Month or two to Effect it. Lunt travelling from Dover toward London, told several Romish Priests of his Acquaintance (tho' not in Plain words) the Design he was engaged in. Some of the Priests were against it, as a damnable Sin, and others encouraged him to it, as a meritorious Work; these different Opinions, and the dismal Reflections that his awakened Conscience, made upon his engaging in an Action so Inhuman and Barbarous, gave him so much Disquiet, that he resolved to act no further in it; but had then no Intention to discover it, till a good Friend made him sensible it was his Duty, and then he discovered the whole Conspriacy beginning to his Knowledge in May 1689, and continuing till June 1694, which was the time he discovered it, and now I must return to Mr. Crosby. Who,  
Having acquainted himself with the Sentiments of the Party, agreed what Proposals to make to the French King, and collected the Names of those, that, according to his Account, were to assist at the Invasion and Insurection, was preparing to return to France with these Writings, of which for fear one should miscarry, there were two Copies. One kept by himself, and the other by Coll. Parker, but good Heaven discovered this Treason also, and Mr. Crosby, who had completed the Work he came about, and only waited for a Wind to Transport him into France, was apprehended, May the 9th and committed to Newgate, and Coll. Parker who was defigned to supply that Fault, was taken May the 20th committed to the Tower, May the 22th, and by this means the Carriage of the Papers was delayed, till Parker broke Prison, which was August the 12th following.  
The next day after Mr. Crosby was apprehended, the King's Messengers Mr. Legat and Mr. Hopkins searched the Chamber where Crosby laid up his Papers. In the first Room they found store; but while they were there, Cousin maly 
* Marry Jones  with another Fomale Jacobite, that lodged in the same House, ripped up a Feather Bed and took out thence great quantities of written Papers and Letters directed to Mr. Crosby, and that they might tell no Tales, threw them into the House of Office and a Pail of Water after them, but strewing Feathers in the way (through the haste they made to destroy the Writings) they guided the Messengers to retrieve them. Now,  
Before I produce these Papers, give me leave to acquaint you, that the following Papers are truly copied from the Originals, sworn by two Witnesses 
* Mr. Legate and Mr. Hopkins.  at Crosby's Trial to be found either in his Pockets, in his Chambers, or in the House of Office, and were all marked by the Messengers at their first Seizing. the Names in Cant are explained by a Key found among Crosby's Papers for that purpose, who seldom was called by his own Name in England, but by these that follow, viz. Philip's, Williamson, Traveller, James. Clynch, Thompson and Jack Crew. I will next show whither he was going, the Company he kept, and what he had been doing, and then produce the Scheme for an Invasion. Mr. Crosby had a Chamber at Mr. Pugson's house a Tailor in German-street, who gave the Information following;  
That he believes Philips (Crosby) was going beyond Sea, and had waited some considerable time for a Wind, for that he reported he was going a Journey, and would be often enquiring about the Wind which was then Easterly, and many that enquired if Philip's was gone, would immediately look upon the Wind. One particularly wondered Philip's was not gone, for the Wind was then shifted from the East, and fair for him. The same Imformant saith that most of the Persons that visited Philip's brought him letters and Pacquets: Among others that came to him, he remembers Mr. Simon Harcourt used to bring Writings to him, pretending they concerned a Suit of Madam eliot's; he the said Harcourt came to Philip's immediately after Sr. James Montgomery was taken, and carried himself, as if he had been stark Mad. He was also often visited by Bromfeild the Quaker, Lady Slaney Daughter to Sir Patrick Trant and Lady Philip's, lately come out of France. Sir Andrew Forrester, Captain Waugh of Brentford, Mr. James Urwin in Kingstreet, Doctor Smith late Fellow of a College in Oxford, Doctor Sherridon late Bishop of Kilmore, the Lady Griffin who lodged in Pel-Mel, sent Letters often to Philip's by her Yellow haired Boy: And Coll. Oglethrop by his maid Servant. An Indian Boy brought Letters often from Mr. Nay Smith Gentleman of the Horse to the Duke of Norfolk. So did Captain Charnock and Penelope Higgins, who this Informant believes were privy to all Philip's Affairs: These and Colonel James Graham come often to him, and were long with him, and further this Informant saith not,  
Pugson.  
In Mr. Crosby's Custody was found a Letter from Mr. Simon Har**● Cl— of the P— for the County of Mid— x. 
Desiring to see Mr. Philip's at his House at eight this night, and desires Cousin Molly (an intreaguing Female) to let him know so much if she can. I have sent (saith he) also to his Coffee-house to signify so much. I am Madam your most Humble Servant  
S. Har**t.  directed to Mrs. Mary Jones at Mr. Pugsons over against the Coffeehouse in German-street dated 13 Ap. 94.  
In the same Chanber was also found a bantering Letter against the Government, written by Sir John Knight of Bristol, directed to Mr. Simon Harcourt,  
and desiring him to tell Mr. Philips (Crosby) that he had very earnest Business with him, and must of necessity speak with him at Harcourts' House at his first Leisure.  
J. Knight. dated April. 2d 1694.  
You see Mr. Crosby is invited by both these Gentlemen to a Conference, the Place where, and Time when, but about what they met, I will leave my Reader to judge, when I have told him that Mr. Crosby was taken by the King's Messengers, with his Pockets full of Treasonable Papers, knocking at Mr. Har**t's' Door in Lincolns-Inn-Fields, about eleven at Night; I shall make no Reflections on it, but methinks it is a Jest all over, that after this, and many other Instances of their Aversion, such Men should still enjoy such great Places of Trust and Profit under the present Government.  
In Mr. Crosby's Chamber was likewise found (among Scores of others) a Letter of the same Date, directed to Mr. Hatton,  
desiring to speak with Mr. Phillips (Crosby) before he took his Journey, and signed,  
Cl***n.  
Another directed to Mr. 
* Crosby.  Phillip's, dated April 6. 1694.  
Mr. Cole 
* Mr. Noseworthy.  at whose Lodgings I dined, has received several other Letters for you from Ruth Goodall, 
* King James' Queen.  and he will bring them to morrow Morning to the House where I saw you last, he will be there exactly at ten, I am,  
Yours C. Temple. 
* Tempest.   
To Mr. Phillip's, March. 28. 1694. In hopes Elizabeth Franklin 
* The Court of France.  will give her Consent to a Marriage with Peter East, 
* England.  I have sent you the Grounds on which his Relations promoted the Match with Assurance 
* Money.  Abraham Munson shall be really to attend it, and defray the Expenses, and Bales of Woollen 
* Troopers.  and Linen 
* Foot-soldiers.  shall not be wanting, when both Parties are agreed, and Writings interchanged for a Settlement. However you will be so kind to send Word, where the Wedding must be kept, that those who have so long expected it, may be all in a Readiness, of which they shall have Notice, from, Sir,  
Your humble Servant, J. Micklethwaite 
* Mollyneux.   
Fergusen calls these Papers, for which Crosby was apprehended, Baggatells, and Stories of Robin Hood and little John, but if this be not such, there is none in Prince Butler's Petition against Pamphylius; but if you explain the Canting Original by the Notes in the Margin, which are all taken from Crosby's Copy, you will find it a plain Indication, how ready the Lancashire Conspirators were for a Rebellion, which was then carried on by Coll. Parker, Crosby, Johnson, and their Accomplices.  
I shall next present you with brief Heads of a Letter, written into France in Crosby's own Hand, and found in his Pockets when taken at Mr. Har**t's' Door, directed to the late Queen Mary, Wife to the late King James, which gives Assurance of his utmost Endeavours in order to accomplish the late King's Restauration, complains of keeping 
* Melfort.  Mills in the Ministry, who has ruined all the late King's Affairs in England. That two of 
* Melfort.  Mills' Friends, viz. My Lord Alis. and Sr. Robert Ham, assured him there was no need of it, he had writ to Mills 
* Melfort.  to withdraw himself for some Time, and therefore hopes the late Queen will take better Measures for the future.  
Another Letter dated March 1694, and directed to Mr. James Clynch, 
* Crosby  says,  
I received yours of January the 26th with that enclosed for Mr. 
* Melfort.  May, which was very full and satisfactory, he ordered me to make a fair Copy of it to send to Elizabeth 
* The French Court. Ferguson.  Franklin, that which our Friend * Robin writ did not a little quiet my Spirit, if some Persons had not rendered every thing falsely to Mr. 
* French King.  Knowles, we should not have wanted to supply all the Manufactories, wherein it is as plain to him as us, he could not lay out his Money to a more considerable Advantage. For if Things were upon this Foot, honest Mrs. Sarah 
* The Descent.  Dolton's Match would not be now to make.  
See how the Jacobites are bartering with France for England; and there is no Question to be made, if the Charge of a Descent must be out of the F— K—'s Pocket, all the three Kingdoms must be in his Power till the Debt is cancelled: Which will never be till our Claims are extinguished in our Blood and Ruin; and yet upon this Foot would the Jacobites have their native Country invaded. I will trouble the Reader but with one Letter more, before I produce the Scheme for the Invasion, and that was dated March 1694. and sent by Mr. Bolton, and directed to Mr. 
* Crosby.  James Clynch.  
I Had yours of the 26th of January, and Mr. Nihil 
* Mr. Neale, Lord Melfort's Secretary.  showed me one of yours of the same date to Mr. May, 
* Melfort.  who has writ at large to you by this Packet, we are all pleased with the hopes you give us of uniting all Interests, if this could be improved to a Degree of collecting all their Sentiments, from time to time, into one Letter written by their Directions, it would have wonderful Effects here, and make all Answers expeditious and satisfactory.  
Here are Directions how Crosby and his Accomplices are to proceed in order to form a Descent from France, and an Insurrection and Rebellion in England, all Parties must be cajoled, Factions humoured and such Promises made, as were never intended to be performed. That's the true English of the Words, uniting all Interests, for according to the Jacobites settled Decrees, if they could Reinthrone the late King James, none but the Papists must be sharers in the Government, or in their King's Affection or Bounty; for they equally hate all Protestants under what Denomination soever, as I will prove by their own Words and Matter of Fact: It being one of their own deliberate berate Advices, at a Consult, and sent to the late King James as a Rule to govern himself by, viz. That he should make use of the Whigs but never trust them, 
See Crosby's Papers.  they might it seems be employed in promoting his Designs, and their own Ruin; but the Administration and Advantages of it must be given to the Papists.  
Now since the Dissenters Hopes are all lopped off at one blow, sure there remains great expectation of Favour and Bounty, to the Church of England- Men? 
* Vid. same Paper.  No, they were the Papists first, and most formidable Enemies at the Revolution, as having the Law on their side, and must also be thrust behind the Door; nay they so load them with Reproaches now, for deserting a Popish King and their Doctrine of Passive Obedience together, that they can hope for no Mercy: As is plain from the Epithets given them in a Letter directed to Philip's dated the 4th of May, and sworn to be found in his Custody by two Witnesses, which among others have these Words. Let 
Lord Middleton.  Toncroft know I meant the Church of England by the pack of Rogues, and the Bishop of N. the Clergyman that was his Enemy; their Characters now I will not venture to send him, being so various in their Politics. This is the true and undisguised Language of Popery among themselves, which I will make no other use of, than to persuade all Protestants of what Denomination soever, to Love fervently and Unite inseparably against these common Enemies of our Nation and Religion.  
In the last Letter produced, Crosby had Orders from France to inform himself of the Sentiments of the whole Party, and digest them into one Letter. For this purpose he frequented all their Meetings, and was carressed and assisted in this Undertaking by all that bore a Figure or Name amongst the Jacobites, both in City and Country, and this great and finishing Stroke being given at their several Consults, he only waited for a Wind to waft himself and his Scheme into France, to be put in Practice; but Heaven crossed their Designs, and threw into the hands of Justice both the Plotter and the Papers, some of which are these that follow, and contain the Scheme for an Invasion of his Majesty's Dominions. Why 'twas fitting to be attempted then, the ways of accomplishing it, and the Names of some Persons from whom as the Jacobites say, Assistance might be expected, directed to Mr. Toncroft. 
Lord Middleton.   
Sir,  
AS we are sensible of your very great Goodness and Zeal in promoting his Majesty's Interest, so we are in a special Manner for your Favour, in opening us a way whereby we dare freely and impartially impart our Thoughts to you; and that at a Time when there never yet offered a fairer Opportunity for his Majesty's Restoration, nor a greater Concurrence of Causes.  
At a Time when the Government is under the greatest Contempt for its Miscarriages abroad; and Mismanagements at home.  
When the Nation is fully sensible their Representatives are of a Party against them, and so bribed into false Notions of their Interest, that every of them seems to be at Work to dig the Kingdoms Grave.  
When the whole Army to defend us, is not above twelve Thousand, and that dispersed into the several Corners of the Kingdom, so that not above seven or eight Thousand can be drawn together into the Field, and the Garrisons left provided; and many of them justly suspected, not to be ill inclined to their Lawful Sovereign, and none to be expected from abroad, without eminently exposing our Allies. Egregiously false in every Particular.  
When the Fleet cannot possibly be out till the beginning of May at soon, the Preparations in order thereunto moving slowly (notwithstanding the pressing Instances of the Court) for want of Funds, the Stores in bad Conditions, and the best Ships and Seamen gone with the Merchant's Fleet Convoys to the straits: The difficulty of getting other Seamen to supply their Places, greater than ever, from the hardships they were made to endure from ill Payment, and the frequent deluding them with Proclamations of great Promises, and no Performances: All which may give his M. C. Ms. Fleet an Opportunity of being out earlier than ours, and to profit of this our Condition by possessing himself of such a Station, as may prevent the Junction of our Portsmouth and Chattam Fleets, and the Transportation of Troops from Flanders (if they could be spared from thence) or what else might be thought proper.  
What Pains the Jacobites take to persuade the French to be beaten a second Time.  
When the Militia are in such hands as will make little Opposition, and at the worst of no use in Winter. The Exchequer in the lowest Ebb and very much in Debt. The lendable Money of the Nation from twelve hundred thousand pounds reduced to Six and not above one in the Exchequer to answer all the Exegencies of State, a great part of the Funds now to be given already anticipated and no Credit to be had till the Parliament pass a Money Bill, and none then, if there appear the least Shadow of a Descent. If the French had believed them, or they had believed themselves, surely we had had an Invasion, or some other Disturbance from them before this time.  
When the Nation is generally uneasy and discontented for its great Losses, the burden and weight of Taxes, and no hopes of an end of them, but by the Change of Government.  
When the whole Kingdom is divided into Parties and most against the Governors and Government and Contentions of State arise in Private Families. Verdicts and Judgements found and given as the Litigant Parties exceed in strength more than by the Merits of the Cause; which engages the whole People of one side or the other in every Case. This Paragraph might have been spared till we had a Jefferys our Chancellor and a Wright Lord Chrief Justice.  
When things frame as if it was the Design on all hands, to foment and increase our Devisions, instead of pacifying them. And when 'tis the Opinion of the Wisest and Coolest Men amongst us, that those ill Symptoms of a divided and distempered Kingdom, can only hope for, and receive, a Cure, from what God has put into the hands and Protection of his M. C. Majesty. From a Prescription more baneful than the Malady, a Cure worse than the Disease, and a Physician that first beggars than murders his Patient, Libera nos Domine.  
When the most violent of his Majesty's Enemies are softened and disarmed by the Promises in his late gracious Declaration; others drawn off and his Friends reassured and confirmed in their Duty. His Declaration was too mean for a Prince that had a grain of Courage, and too condescending to be credited, but this was a stroke of Flattery to the Lord Middleton, who was the Author of it.  
But on the contrary, if this time and opportunity be slipped, and not improved, we see nothing but an Inundation of Evils breaking in upon us on all sides, and no hopes of relief, no remedy, no stop to be put to them. The King's Friends long deluded with false Alarms from St. Germains, will be apt to entertain odd Notions of his Restoration, to stagger in their Duty; and perhaps many of them close with the Government, or at the best grow jealous of the Intentions of his most Christian Majesty. Where pretended Friends prove false, wise Men will throw themselves into the Hands of generous Enemies.  
By sliping this Opportunity, the P— of Orange will become Master of such a Fleet and Army, (after the Supplies voted him by Parliament once begin to be returned into the Exchequer) which together with his Pensions and Bribes will make him as absolute and despotic here, as he is already in Holland (especially if he be attended with the least good Success abroad) and by his Practices in both Countries enslave both, and retain them in Subjection by the help of each other.  
The first Part of this Paragraph shows their Fears, and the last proclaims their Falsehood.  
Whereby all hopes for the future of a Restauration will become desperate, by undermining the Endeavours and emasculating the Courage and Constancy of the greatest Sufferers for their Loyalty and Integrity; and giving Leisure and Scope to his Enemies to make yet greater Barriers and Fences against it.  
The hopes of a Restauration must needs be desperate, when it is attempted by none but undermined and emasculated Jacobites.  
Whereas if it shall please his most Christian Majesty, by laying hold of this Opportunity, to deliver us from the Calamities and Oppressions we lie under, and the greater we are like to be exposed to, by restoring to us our lawful Sovereign, ancient Laws and Constitutions, it will not only be a means to remove all Jealousy and Fears hitherto entertained of his Power and Greatness; but beget such a Confidence in him, and a mutual Love between the Subjects of both Kingdoms, as may be evermore the Grounds of an everlasting solid Happiness to them both.  
Towards the attaining of which wished-for-end, in which the Peace of Europe, the Happiness of our Native Country in particular is so much wrapped up in, and in which the Glory, Honour and Justice of his most Christian Majesty seems to be so eminently concerned. We shall hearty and cheerfully concur with our Lives and Fortunes, in Company of a great many more of all Ranks, Degrees and Professions, and upon your Directions, be ready to enter into Action in Conjunction with such Succours as the present Circumstances of his M. C. Majesty will permit him to furnish us.  
This Paragraph that so loudly proclaims a Plot against the Government, and humbly begs help to ruin their Native Country, gives us the true Effigies of the Jacobites, who represented our Affairs to the French, not as they truly were; but after such a manner as might tempt the French King to assist them; but the French, it seems, had more Kindness for themselves, then to be again deluded by their repeated Falsifications; and therefore would neither credit their Assurances, nor comply with their Requests, in hazarding 30000 Soldiers, and a Fleet of Ships and Seamen, for Moon-shine'ith Water; having lately sound by a dear bought Experience, that our English Seamen and Soldiers were not so few, nor so false, nor the Nation so poor, nor so factious; but that they were always agreed to be irreconcilable Enemies to all that were so to King William and the English Nation, and being so united, would exert their Courage and Fidelity, and Chastise the Insolency of all that opposed them at their Pleasure; as a late Event had already justified. Now,  
That this solemn Invitation had no Effect, was not want of Will, but Power in the Jacobites, since they pushed it so far, and made it so public, and is not this Project enough to astonish all that consider the Design, and its Consequences. That the Jacobite having devoured the English Man, a Monster should grow up in the room of him; who cares not if Great Britain might but be Lost, who gains it; so our Religion were but destroyed, whether Popery, or Mahometism, were placed in its stead. And that so England be but Invaded, they are neither afraid, nor ashamed, to see it accompanied with the Desolation of our Cities, demolishing of our Temples, converting the whole Land into one Foreign slaughter-House, and leaving a rich and fertile Kingdom to be possessed by a pack of beggarly, hunger-starved, naked Slaves and Vassals.  
Much more might be added upon this Head, if the Author could take any Pleasure in so melancholy a Subject: And that it were not to make little Account of the Wisdom and Justice of English Men to whom he writes, that he did not think them capable of resenting the Jacobites Treachery, and were not of Ability, Skill and Honesty, to countermine them, and all their Confederates.  
The Second Paper follows.  
WE no ways doubt but his Most Christian Majesty is fully informed by the King, who has had laid before him the Representations of the several Classes of his Friends, in answer to his late Instructions, and of many considerable Men in his Interest unknown to each other. As to the properest Place, the Time, the Number requisite, and the Concurrence to be expected from hence upon a Descent: But because the best and most solid Conclusions are drawn from an Union and Harmony in Opinion, we think it not amiss to explain ourselves upon that Head, to the end, that if ours agree with those you have already before you, it may have the greater weight with you.  
First then, as to the Number, it's our Opinion and that of all we converse with, that 30000 Men, or 25000 in England, and 5000 in Scotland, would carry the King through all difficulties, will be a sufficient shelter for his Friends, and an Encouragement to others to come into him, and declare for him, that such an Army, or a much less, according as the Army here rises or falls, as the Person who conveys this, and has concerted it with us, will be able further to explain unto you, seconded with an agreeable Ministry, and the Kings late gracious Declaration, would meet with little Opposition is most certain, and may be entirely relied upon; but it ought not to be forgot at the same time, that some particular Assurances be emitted, suitable to the Constitution of some Shires, as will be further explained to you and the present Condition of the Army.  
Thirdly, As to the Place proper for such a Descent, that must be left to the Wind, Wether and Season. If it could be early the nearer London would be the better, for the whole Kingdom would follow the Fate of that City, which would make no manner of Resistance if a Descent were made near it; and at the same time would give an Opportunity to 5000 Foot and 1500 Horse all form Troops and Remains of the old Army, to join the King; besides what 〈…〉 would go in of the greatest Consideration; we now speak within the narrowest Compass.  
Fourthly, If later, then in our Opinion, Bristol is the properest Place, which is a great Town, well affected to his Majesty, lies in the heart of the Kingdom, and that and the Counties about it, is capable to furnish all Necessaries for such an Army as he shall think fit to bring; besides a great many other Advantages which have been already explained to you, and will be further by this Gentleman.  
Fifthly, Upon a Descent in that Place, his Majesty may depend upon a great Concurrence of the Nobility, Clergy and Gentry from the adjacent Counties, Cities and Towns. Gloucestershire, Worcestershire, Monmouth-shire will move with the D. of B**rt Mar**ss of W**ter his Son, and my Lord N**ry, who immediately upon the King's Direction to them, will change the Lieutenancy of those Countries, and bring the whole Militia into the King, as is concerted and agreed upon.  
North Wales and South Wales are honest, and will be influenced by the D. of 〈…〉, etc. It's concerted there amongst the chief Gentry, that those who were in the Lieutenancy in the late King's Time, will reassume their Posts as before, upon his Landing, and bring the whole Militia to join him, as will be further explained to you by the Person that conveys this to you.  
The Gentry of Dorsetshire are the same, particularly the Towns of Dorcester and Weymouth.  
Sommersetshire will be altogether influenced by my Lord P**t, Lord Bishop of B. and W. Sr. Fr**s W*r, Sr. Ha**ll T*t, Sr. Wm. P**n, Mr. A**ll, Mr. L**y, Mr. Stead, who have concerted, immediately upon the Kings Landing, to call all the Gentry of the County together, and prevent them from raising the Militia, and upon his Majesty's Directions will reassume their Places as before, when his Majesty was upon the Throne.  
From Devonshire his Majesty will be joined by the Honourable J. Gr**ll, Sir Ed. Se**r, Sr. Bo. W*y, Sr. Sy. Li*h, Sr. P. Co***n, who have great Interest in that County.  
From Cornwall by my Lord Ar***l of Tr**e, Lord Mo**n, Capt. Mo**n his Uncle, Lord La**n Lord Bishop of E***r, Sr. Wm. Co***n, Sr. J. Ar***l, Sr. Jos. Te***m, Sr. Wm. Go***n, Sr. J. St. Au**n, Sr. J. M**h, Sr. J. A**y. In a Word, that whole County is honest, and entirely devoted to the King; but particularly the Miners, who are chief influenced by Go***n, St. Au**n, J. K*p, H. T**n, J. K*n, Hen. Vi**t, who may bring together a Body of 8 or 9000 of them to join the King upon an Occasion, and if mixed with some regular Troops, and headed by a good Officer, would settle that part of the Country for the King; the Freeholders' there are tired with Taxes; no Fish taken, Tin low, scarce worth the working. Wool and Yarn very low; so that some particular Promises and Assurances to that County, would have great Effects among the Tin Miners. That should be his Majesty's particular Care to enhance the Price of that Commodity, etc. which since his Time is fallen from 4. l. to 50. s. at which Price 'tis now.  
Wiltshire will move with my Lord We**h and Ay**y.  
From Shropshire the King may expect to be joined by most of the Gentry. The City of Shrewsbury is honest.  
From Warwickshire by my Lord Fe**s, Lord B*r, Lord L*h, Lord D**h, Lord D**y, who with those that have been in the Lieutenancy, will reassume their Posts, and bring the Militia of that County to join the King.  
Northamptonshire, Lord E***e, who has lately offered the King, he will come at the Head of 3000 Horse, with the chief Gentry of the County to join him, Lord Gr**n and his Son.  
Derbyshire, and Leicestershire, by Lord C***d, Lord H***n, Lord R**d, Lord S**le. Who will in that County as in others, reassume the Lieutenancy upon the King's Directions, and make it serviceable to his Majesty.  
Cheshire, Sir F. E***n, Sir P. E***n, Mr. C**y of V*e R**ll, Mr. Ro— t Ch**y of H**d, Sir Wm. M***ll, Mr. Ar**n, Mr. M**ll, Mr. Lo*s, M— r. B*h, Coll, M**ll, Mr. Fr***llss, Mr. Br*ks of Norton, Sir T. S*ley; with a great many of the Clergy and City of Chester is well inclined.  
Oxfordshire, Lord A***n, Lord N**s his Son, Lord L**d, Sir T. Cl**is, Sir W. his Son, Lord T***t, the Honourable Henry B***s, Sir E. N**s, Sir E. R*d, Sir Wm. W**s.  
Lincolnshire, by the Earl of L**y, his Br. and the greatest Part of the Gentry.  
So much as to the Places adjacent to Bristol, now it's most certain, that while the King's Western Friends are employed, his Northern Friends, and those in London will not be Idle, if his Majesty will but send them Directions.  
There are actually in the North above 4000 Men 
* Compare this account with that of the Discoverers and they exactly agree.  listed ready to march upon occasion, and will be headed by Men of great consideration, all the North being generally well inclined; his Majesty has particular Assurance from thence, and a true State of those Parts before him, so that there is no need we should lay it down here; but this it's fit you should rest satisfied of, that the Moment he lands, Carlisle and Newcastle will be put into his hands: And there will be an Attempt made upon Chester and Berwick. Falmouth we are sure of, upon the first notice, and some are in Treaty with the Deputy Governor for Ply**h, in case my Lord of B*h should fail: there is a Person has carried you over a Project for the securing another Place. You may depend upon 500 of the Inferior Clergy's joining the King upon his Landing, which will greatly influence the Nation. If this be true the Government was well advised, to oblige them to join in the National Association.  
It must be left to your Discretion and the Wisdom of your Counsels, what Directions to send to his Majesty's Friends in the North, the City, and the West, what you would have them do, whether they shall join his Majesty, or make some Diversion where they are.  
Their best way is to study to be quiet, and to mind their own Business; for Plotting is a Trade that few Men thrive by.  
You must understand that this Representation coming from such Persons whereof many of them have been in a long Correspondence with his Majesty, they refer you therefore to him to inform you of the particular Assurances each have given him themselves, or their Friends in their Names, out of which and the Assurances you have from the new Party that are fallen into this Interest, 
P. Middleton Melfort, Mr. Carryll.  under the Management of Mr. Toncroft, Mills and Ryfeild, you may collect what is to be depended upon from this Place: But after all, the surest Rule an Attempt can be grounded upon, is, the Discontents of a Nation, headed and seconded with Men of Figure and Reputation in their Countries the first were never greater and Universal, nor the last in greater Numbers, for by the common Estimate it's judged two Parts in three of the Commonalty, and Gentrey are against the Government, and one half of the Nobility.  
Unless the Jacobites pretend to invade the Prerogative of God Almighty and know men's Hearts, I am very confident they are grievously out in their Reckoning.  
Another Paper thus.  
Sir,  
THAT this is the proper Juncture for France 's making an Attempt for the King's Restoration, for the following Reasons.  
First, From the Temper of the Nation, inclining and bending towards a Revolution, which appears upon all considerable Divisions in the House; the Men of the greatest Interest and Substance still dividing against the Court.  
If any in that August Assembly do so, they will scarce thank the Jacobites, for assigning their hopes of a Revolution as the Cause of it.  
By the delays of the House to supply the present necessities of the Government. This is so False, that in other Places they complain of the contrary, surely they have a bad Cause or very treacherous Memories.  
The many open and scurrilous Speeches against the Ministry.  
Scurrility is not the Language of that honourable Assembly.  
The constant Divisions at the Council Board.  
The slowness to condemn State Criminals.  
That is a Fault indeed, tho' I did not expect the Jacobites would have complained of it; but where they cannot arraign the Government for its Severity, they quarrel at its Lenity and Mercy.  
The Discontents of the Seamen and Admirals.  
The many open Declarations of the Officers and Soldiers of the Army, of their Respect and Duty to the King.  
The great Alteration that appears every where upon the least Alarm of the Kings Coming.  
They did not find it so at the late Action off la Hogue.  
In the City, upon the Exchange.  
In the Country, the many Mortgages made by Men of the greatest Fortunes, upon the least Report of his coming: From whence 'twas generally concluded, those Men had thereby prepared themselves to join his Majesty upon Occasion.  
What a strange Inference is this, they will not give a Gentleman Leave to raise Money to pay his Debts or serve his other Occasions, but they will construe it, contrary to his Intention, that he is equipping himself for a Rebellion.  
The general desponding of the King's Enemies on such Reports.  
The Resolution of all Men in Office throughout the Kingdom, except it be the very Military Officers alone, nay and many of them will lie quiet or go into the King.  
If they had known any such they would not have forgot their Names to increase the Number of their Party.  
Add to this the general Influence it has upon moneyed Men.  
I know not how moneyed Men can be interessed in an Invasion, Insurrection and Rebellion, unless it be to hid their Cash.  
An assurance of Forts and Places of Retreat, which holds beyond Expectation.  
Now let us examine what Reason they had for these Representations. For that the City of London would not oppose an Invasion made near it by the French, is such a horrible Abuse upon that Honourable and Loyal City, that none would have been guilty of it, but such a Set of Men as are ashamed of nothing. And as to their Boasts of great Numbers to support the Descent, 'tis a piece of the same Dye.  
Bristol, it's true, might be represented by that turbulent Man Sir John Knight, who held Correspondence with Crosby, to be in the late King's Interest, but if he had put it to the Trial, he would have found a vigorous and sturdy Opposition: The ablest Merchants and greatest Traders in the Town being all Williamites, as appeared at the Election of Citizens to serve in Parliament, when they threw out Sir John Knight and Sir Richard Hart, from being Members of Parliament by a great Majority.  
What they say of the Towns of Dorchester and Weymouth in particular, I am well assured is wholly false, for they are both known to be universally well affected to the present Government; and few, if any Towns, in the West so entirely: For there are not in either of them above three Jacobites, and those in no Credit, but discountenanced and contemned by every Body for being so. I wish I were as able to do Justice to other Places and Persons, as a worthy Gentleman hath made me in this. And now,  
What need is there of producing Lunt, Womball or Wilson for further Proof of a Plot in general, or of a Lancashire Plot in particular, when the Managers of the whole Party say, that there were in the North four thousand Men actually listed for the Service of the late King James, and were ready to march upon Occasion, and would be headed by Men of great Consideration. For the King's Evidences have said no more than what is here confessed by the Jacobites themselves.  
The foregoing Papers do also give you an Account of the State of our Fleet, and of the Inclination of several Persons in the Government, as affected or disaffected (if you can believe them) all which I find in Letters taken in Crosby's Custody dated 22d, 26th, February 1693, but neither subscribed nor directed.  
About 10 days ago here was News of King James 's Coming, and it was not disbelieved at Court, but now quite fallen to the ground. The Jacobites say, there was never a better Disposition in all generally to receive King James and give their Reasons for it. Which are the same contained in the foregoing Papers which having briefly repeated the Letter proceeds, the rest regard their own more than any King's Interest, and will not hazard any thing for either, if the Practice now in Design don't engage all the Presbyterians. Lord Ca***n laid aside, M***ne to succeed, S***y solicited to be Secretary, Lord Mar***h to be General of the English Foot, Lord S***e ruling Minister behind the Curtain, Lord B*h turned out of all; he with many other Offenders would have King James restored, if they thought their Crimes could be pardoned, nothing can hinder raising Money but an Invasion. Bristol declares mightily for King James; Worcester disaffected, but if any Disturbance should happen we have some thousands of Hugonites in this Town privately subsisted, on whom we depend not a little; As to what Business Mr. 
* K. James.  Vandeleur and you may have I will be deligent in it, but what may relate to any of the Trading Ships being taken Prizes, there is one Mr. Anselme, who was Secretary to the Admiral's last Year, 
* Crosby.  and understands the Business very well, but will not be mercenary in it, and with his Help something may be done; 'twill therefore be necessary that he see something from Mr. Vandeleur, or by his Order, to that purpose. Some of Mr. Anselm's Letters falling into the Hands of the Government, he was sent for from on board and discharged: The Jacobites knew him their own before, but since his Discharge treat with him above-board, as you may see by the foregoing Letter, and another from Philip's to Mr. Abraham Anselm, dated May 5. 1694.  
I must needs see you before I go into the 
* Into France.  Country, which will be to morrow, you will hear of me at Barnsley's Coffee-house to night at 11, or to morrow at 7 in the morning, let me see you, that we may settle some Matters.  Philip's. 
Thus they endeavoured to corrupt the Officers of the Fleet, Army and Militia and tampered with the Clerks and. Secretaries of those, who either were or had been employed in eminent Posts under the Government, that by their assistance they might get Intelligence of what they wanted to know, thus they obtained an Account of the Naval Forces of one, a List of the Army of another; and transmitted them into France, that the Enemy might take his measures accordingly, so that nothing is more apparent than that the whole Design against the Government was always carried on by Men of no essential Honour or Virtue; but by such a confused Medley of disaffected Persons, as were the Creatures of the late Reign, who had lost either their Employments or Expectations by the Revolution, or Disbanded Officers and Soldiers, who delight in Tumults and Insurrections.  
I have now done with Mr. Crosby and his Papers, by which the Reader will soon find that the Plot for an Invasion, Insurrection and Rebellion was carried on by the Jacobites in General in the Year 1693, and part of the Year 1694, and since the Lancashire Gentlemen, instead of Blessing their Stars for so strange a Deliverance, have aggravated their guilt, by endeavouring to represent the legal Prosecution of some of their Party as a State-trick, a Sham-Plot, and the Contrivance of some little Ministers to enrich themselves by the Ruin of others: I shall descend to the particular shares which they and their Friends had in the whole Conspiracy to subvert the Government, to Destroy the King, and reinthrone the late King James; and then leave the Reader to judge, what little Reason they had to raise such loud Clamours for bringing Criminals to Justice, and because I have hitherto proceeded Annually, and given an Account of the several Conspiracies in order of time, as they were discovered; I hope the Reader will think it no impertinent Digression to refresh his Memory with a brief Rehearsal of their Proceed, till they were discovered in 1694, as they occasionally occur in the following Depositions.  
In June 1694, Lunt made this Discovery, viz that he 
* Vid, his whole Depos. in the appendix taken before Sir John Trenchard.  followed the late King James into France, thence into Ireland, from Ireland was sent into England with Commissions from the late King James to certain Gentlemen in Lancashire, Cheshire, etc. To raise War against King William and Queen Mary, that he and George Wilson his Guide delivered those Commissions to whom they were directed (whose Names you have in his Narrative) that at the Instance and proper Costs of those Gentlemen to whom he had delivered Commissions, he bought Arms and listed and subsisted many Soldiers, for the Service of the late King James, in order to an Invasion and Insurrection in that Country, that he was twice sent by those Gentlemen into France to the late King to signify their Readiness, and receive his further Commands. Tho' I don't question but the Reader has had already sufficient Reason to believe what is above rehearsed, I think it not amiss to show him, for confirmation sake, something that Lunt discovered in 1694, that hath since proved itself, he says in one part of his Depositions, That when he was in London, besides his Employment of buying Arms, and listing Soldiers, he helped some Jacobites over to France, and secured others that came from thence, who all of them told Mr. Lunt, that generally Sr. John Friend furnished Money for those Expeditions, and paid Subsistence Money to them as Soldiers. Which was the Crime he died for in 1696. And no doubt was one of the things that enraged the Party so much against him, knowing that that Hint might in Time be attended with a fuller Discovery.  
George Wilson deposeth, 
Taken before Sir John Trenchard.  That he keeping an Inn in Redland, near the City of Chester; there came a Stranger to his House, whose Name he afterwards understood was Dr. Bromfeild, recommended thither by Mr. Fitz Herbert of Wapra in Flintshire, where Bromfeild had been concealed some time for a Passage into Ireland, that Bromfeild bought a Vessel to transport him, which Vessel was seized by Mr. Morston, an Officer in the Government, and Bromfeild escaped into Lancashire, and thence into Ireland. He further deposeth, That being known to be accessary to 
* See Mr. Edwards's Affidavit in the Appendix.  Bromfield's Escape and harbouring and furthering the Escape of many of the late King James' Friends; he was sought after by Soldiers from Chester, and the Civil Officers of the County, insomuch that he was compelled to fly from his own House, and never durst return; but after having hid himself in Woods, got at length into Lancashire, whither his Wife and Family followed him, and was received into the Houses of the Lord Mollyneux, Mr. Tildesly, Mr. Standish, Sr. Rowland Standley, Sr. James Pool, Sr. Wm. Gerrard, Mr. Townley and others; sometimes at one House, and sometimes at another. That being at Mr. Tildesly at the Lodge, and the Wind fair, he was commanded by the Gentlemen aforesaid to look out about the Seacoasts for any Gentlemen that should land; for they expected some Friends and News from Ireland. Wilson did so, and about the Beginning of June 1689, Mr. Edmund Thrillfall of the Ashes in Goosner Lancashire, and Mr. Lunt arrived at 
* Vid. the Master of the Vessel's and the Seamens Depositions in the Appendix.  Cockram in Lancashire, and came immediately to Coll. Tildesly's with several Bundles of Papers, which they immediately opened, and took out divers Commissions, Declarations, Blanks, and sealed Papers from the late King James, directed to several Persons of Quality in that County and Yorkshire, and divided them. Those for Yorkshire Mr. Thrillfall put up, and undertaking to deliver them had a Guide immediately provided him. The Commissions and other Papers for Lancashire. Cheshire and Staffordshire, and Parts thereabouts Mr. Lunt charged himself with the Delivery of, and took this Informant with him from Place to Place to guide and assist him. After they had delivered Mr. Tildesly a Commission for being a Colonel, with Blanks for his inferior Officers, which he received on his Knees, and kissed. They went to the Lord Mollyneuxes, and delivered a Commission for a Coll. of Horse to his Son, Mr. Wm. Mollyneux, with Blanks for his inferior. Officers. Coll. Mollyneux filled up the Blank for Lieutenant Coll. and delivered it in their Sight and Presence to Mr. Wm. Gerrard, who was with Mr. Mollyneux when Mr. Lunt and Wilson came into the House; and so he went on with Lunt from place to place, till he had delivered all the Commissions and Blanks to the Gentlemen mentioned in Mr. Lunt's Depositious. He further deposeth, That to his own Knowledge Lunt did list Men in London, and sent them down into the Country, and that the Soldiers so listed and sent down were subsisted by the Lancashire Gentlemen. That he did (in or about February. 1692) see Mr. Walmsley then newly come out of France at his dwelling House at Dungan-Hall in Lancashire, and that the said Mr. Wamsley did employ this Informant in the Year 1692 and 1693, to list Soldiers under him for the Service of the late King James, and had Money from Mr. Walmsley, Captain Penny and Mr. Standish of Standish-Hall to maintain those Soldiers, he further Deposeth, That he hath seen great Quantities of Arms in the Houses of several Persons mentioned in Mr. Lunts Depositions.  
Here are in substance the Depositions of Ten several Persons (some at great distance from, and utter Strangers one to another) all agreeing in the Lancashire Conspiracy, the Time when, Places where, and the Persons who were to be the principal Actors in that bloody Tragedy; and though Lunt and Wilson name some more Persons to be concerned than were named by Mr. Dodsworth and Mr. Kelly, being three years longer in the Conspiracy than the first Discoverers; yet for so many as each of them have named, they exactly agree, which there is no Question, but the scribbling Party among the Jacobites were fully possessed of; but finding it so directly cross their Designs in shamning the Plot, and scandalising the Government, they take no more notice of Mr. Dodsworth's, Mr. Kelly's, Mr. Robinson's, or the Master and five Seamen's Discoveries, nor of the Informations that were sent to his Grace the Duke of Shrewsbury from the Sessions of the Peace at Manchester, than if there had been no such Persons, or Things in the World; which wilful and designed Omissions in Matters of Fact, shows a greater Disingenuity and want of Integrity, than can be equalised in other Authors.  
Thus much for the Listing and Maintaining of Soldiers, and receiving Commssions from the late King James, to levy War against the King and Kingdom. The next thing is providing Arms for these Soldiers, and they were for the Generality bought by Lunt, Righy, Hatton and Minns, at the holy Lamb in long-Acre, by the Order of Mr. Townley, Coll. Parker, Mr. Standish and the rest of the Conspirators, and carried into Lancashire▪ by several Carriers, that travel from thence to London, particularly by John Womball of Wiggan-Lane in that County, who begun to be employed in this Service at the latter end of the Year 1688, and in the beginning of the Year 1689.  
These Arms were commonly put into large Boxes and Trunks, and for fear of discovery in London, they were for some time lodged for him at Barnet 
* Vid Oliver pearson's Affidavit in the Appendix.  where he took them up, and to prevent Suspicion in the Country, the Gentlemen commonly sent their Serviants, to meet Womball or his Servant upon the Road, there to receive them from him, and carry them to their Master's Houses upon their own Horses. When this way failed, Womball and his Servants carried them to the several gentlemen's Houses by Night, and at other unsuspected Seasons.  
Notwithstanding, as privately as they managed their Design, the watchful Eye of the Government discovered their Practices, and at one time in Litchfeild, 
Vid. Oliver pearson's and Clayton's Depositions.  as Womball was carrying down Arms into Lancashire, the Government took from him there, one hundred and two Swords, which came to pass on this Manner.  
Womball accidentally discovers his Carriage of Arms to Mr. Green of Wiggan, who was at that Time in London, Mr. Green apprehending that the Discovery of what Womball had told him might be serviceable to the Government, repairs forthwith to the Earl of Macclesfield, Lord Lieutenant of Luncashire, and acquainting him with it. His Lordship sends for Womball, who was going out of Town that morning, commands one of the Boxes to be opened, and seeing it filled with Horseman's Swords, very prudently order Womball to carry them down; and in the mean Time, his Lordship gave private Directions to some Friends of the Government in Wiggan, to observe where these Boxes were delivered, with these Orders his Lordship acquaints the Earl of Portland, who well approved the Management of the whole Matter; but by whose Directious these Arms were seized at Litchfield, that they might not be traced to the Owners in Lancashire is worth enquiring after.  
All this was done before Wombull came into the Government, and perceiving there was no further Enquiry into the Matter, he renewed his former Trade of carrying Arms, and among many other weighty Burdens, he received four Packs of Arms from Mr. 
See Womballs Depositions in the Appendix and El. Langly's 〈…〉.  Lunt, and delivered them at Preston, Standish and Croxton. In the Year 1691 and 1692, he carried down great quantities of Arms in Trunks and Boxes, to Mr. Standish of Standish to Mr. Tildesley of the Lodgo, to Mr. Ashton, Mr. Stanford, Mr. Eccleston, Mr. Dickinson, Mr. Gradill and others; but this continual carrying of Arms made so great a Noise, that Womball (the Confident they trusted in this great Affair,) was forced to be more cautious for the future, for two Boxes of Arms were seized in his Custody at Wiggan in Lancashire, and this made him forbear a while, but other Carriers being entrusted, and with worse success, Womball was again employed, to carry up Money to buy Arms, and bring them down when bought; in which Service he acquitted himself so much to the Satisfaction of his Masters, that he was invited to their Meetings, and trusted in most of their Affairs: Nay, in that which they fancied would crown all their hopes, for the late King James being almost ready to embark at la Hogue to invade England, they thought it a necessary piece of Service to disperse these Arms that lay buried under Ground and crowded up in particular Houses, 
* 〈◊〉 Brown's A●●●davit, Kelly's Depositions in the Appendix.  amongst all the Officers concerned, that every thing might be in a readiness at their old Masters Landing. Now who so fit to pack them up and make this Distribution as their trusly Womball which he performed, and by this means came to the open sight and view of great Quantities of Arms and Warlike Equipage. As Kettle Drums, Trumpets, Jack-Boots and Saddles, of which he could not have such particular Knowledge when made up in Packs, Trunks and Boxes, and assisting in the Dividends, packing them up in Boxes, and helping to load the Horses, he might also readily guests at their Numbers, which he computes to be as many as would equip a Thousand Horsemen 
* See his Depositions in the Appendix.  and further believes, that if a proper and secret Method had been taken (and all Notice thereof prevented) for seizing of Horses in Lancashire provided for this wicked Purpose in the Hands of the Conspirators, there might at that Time have been seized five hundred good Horses fit for Service.  
This is the Substance of Mr. Womballs Evidence, which tho' I have thought needless to confirm by more Testimonies, the Jacobites themselves making no Exceptions against him, yet I cannot forbear telling my Reader, that having some Discourse with Captain Porter upon this Subject, he was pleased to tell me, that at the Request of Coll. Parker he bought two pair of the best Kettledrums that London aforded, they cost him seven Pounds a Pair, and sent them to Mr. Standish of Standish-Hall, and that Coll. Parker returned Money to reimburse him by Johnson the Priest, who at the same time complaining of the great Necessities of many of that Party, Cap. Porter gave Johnson, part of the Money that Coll. Parker sent him for the Drums, to be distributed amongst them, Mr. Porter told me also, that, to his own knowledge, Mr. Minns at the Holy-Lamb in Long-Acre, very often bought Arms for the disaffected Gentlemen in Lancashire, as well as for himself. More than this he was pleased to say, he personally knew not of the Lancashire Plot, but well remembers, that Mr. Charnock told him, that Mr. Tempest of Durham was to be a Coll. of Dragoons, Mr. Townley of Townley was to be a Coll. of Horse, Mr. Tempest that married Mr. Farmer's Sister was to be a Coll. of Horse, and one Sir Huge Smith was to be a Cap. of Horse under Coll. Parker in the Army they were forming in Lancashire, which is a greater confirmation of the Plot, and its continuance than could (not long since) have been expected.  
The Government being thus fully informed of the Plot in all the parts and dimensions of it, Warrants are issued out to seize the Conspirators, and tho' for the greater Secrecy, the Names of the Offenders were not put into the Warrants at the Secretary's Office by those that drew the Warrants, but were afterwards put in by the Secretaries themselves, yet by some treacherous Correspondence between the Lancashire Gentlemen and their Bifarious Friends that lurk about the Court, they had notice given them of all Proceed here, as appeared by Madam Standish's telling Captain Henry Baker, when he came with the King's Messengers to search her House, that he might have saved himself the trouble, for they had notice from London of his coming ten days before. And I believe it to be true, or greater Discoveries had been made of Persons and Arms, than could be expected after notice was given them to provide for their Safety, by concealing what ever might give cause of Suspicion; for thereupon they burned their Commissions 
* See Dodsworth's Depositions.  and the Arms and other Warlike Equipage were buried under ground, or otherwise disposed of, and the greatest Part of the Conspirators fled, or absconded; yet through the extraordinary Care and Diligence of those employed in that Service, some of the Plotters were apprehended, and Arms enough found to convince the World, that there was a wicked Design on foot against their Majesties and their Government. For,  
In the House of Mr. Standish of Standish-Hall, whither Lunt deposeth he sent, and Womball deposeth he delivered, great Quantities of Arms and other Habiliments of War, tho' the notice they had from London caused them all to be 
* See Brown's and Kelly's Depositions.  concealed, and the Lady of the House and Servants by many Execrations and Asseverations avowed no such Things were in the House: Yet after five hours diligent search by Captain Baker, and the King's Messengers, there was found walled up in an upper Room or Garret, Thirty new War Saddles, furnished with Breastplates, Cruppers, Girths and all other necessaries for Troopers Saddles; forty new Curb-Bridles, sixty new Ammunition Horseman's Swords, with a great Bunch of Swivels for Carbines. Which certainly could be for no other Service than the intended Rebellion.  
Nor may I omit a Dialogue between Madam Standish and Mr. Peter Morisco, one of the King's Messengers, who coming to make a narrower Search in her Bedchamber, finding the Hang near the Chimney lose, and looking in at the Hole, that was behind it, the Lady told him it was needless; for there was nothing; The Messenger attempting to pull aside the Hang, and make the Hole wider, the Lady endeavoured to divert him by her repeated Asseverations, and laying her Hand upon her Breast, said, Upon my Honour there 〈◊〉 nothing; but the Messenger replied, upon my Honour, Madam, there is something, and immediately drew out a great Bundle of Horseman's Swords never used; and if these Arms, that were hid so close, were not intended for ill purposes, they would do well to assign some other use of them for I cannot. For not to reproach Mr. Standish with a small Estate, and being much in Debt, a great House not half furnished, and those few Goods he had in it very Mean and Poor, there were but four Men Servants in the whole Family; and for a private Gentleman, and a known Enemy to the Government, to make all this Warlike Provision, what other Construction can be made of it, than that some ill Design was forming against the Government.  
These Saddles could not be intended for his own use, since more of the same kind were found (and left) in his Stables, than (according to the Number of his Servants) could be worn out in seven Years. And if we could suppose him to be so prodigal under a narrow fortune; to make so great provision of Saddles and Swords for his own use, why were they all War Saddles, of what use were the Swords, Breast, plates, and so great a quantity of Carbine-swivells and large Curb-Bridles, without so much as one Pad or Hunting Saddle among them.  
Are Hares in Lancashire such formidable Enemies; that all this Warlike Provision is made to encounter them? In other Countries we kill those timorous Animals with Dogs, and equip our Horses for the Chase with the lightest Furniture; seldom carrying any other Weapon into the Field than a long Whip and a short Hanger; but it seems these Lancashire Gentlemen ride a Hunting like Troopers into a Campain, with heavy War Saddles, great Horseman's Swords, Pistols, Carbines, Jack-Boots, Kettledrums and Trumpets. Why else did their Solicitors Mr. Banks and Mr. Beresford avouch them in a great Audience to be only Hunting Saddles, tho' they were then, and still are, in the custody of Sir John Sweet-Apple and Sir William Cole late Sheriffs of London, and ready to be produced before the Parliament, as Evidences to convict them both of Falsity; but to end this: If they were bought for his own use as others would suggest, what Cause had Mr. Standish to keep them soprivately, and put himself to the Charge and Trouble of walling them up in a Garret, and leaving no kind of Door or Entrance into the Place where they were hid; besides, what Reason had Mr. Standish to hid 
* See Brown's Affidavit in the Appendix.  so great a Quantity of Arms and Ammunition at his Tenant Emer's. Those found in the House (when they had no other Shift or Excuse to make) Mr. Banks and Mr. Beresford say were for the Defence of it; but others think that Excuse was as foolish as needless: Since there was scarce any thing in the House worth the Stealing, and his known Poverty was a greater Security against Thiefs, than Swords or Pistols.  
And now I thought (having answered all these Objections) I might have taken my Leave of Standish-hall, and paid a Visit to Mr. Tildesly of the Lodge; but a Person of Quality, that made Observations on the whole Proceed, both in Parliament, at Manchester, and at Lancaster, tells me. I have another Objection to answer, viz.  
Object. Mr. Standish was a Captain in the Militia in Lancashire, in the Reign of the late King James, and in all Probability these Saddles, Carbines, Swords and other warlike Equipage had remained in his Custody ever since that Time.  
Answ. To which I must answer, That all their Objections require more Trouble to raise then to lay; For Mr. Standish was a Capt. of Foot to the late King James, and there was no need of so much Horse-furniture for a Foot Company.  
At Mr. Tildesly's of the Lodge in Lancashire, was found in a private Cupboard, behind a Wainscot walled up with Bricks, where also lay his Money, Plate, Rings, Jewels and other things of Value, an extraordinary Provision of Silver embroidered Housing 
* These are also yet in being in the Hands aforesaid.  and Caps on Velvet, and Scarlet embroidered Housing and Caps; which though I think a greater Quantity and much finer Caparisons than are usually provided for that Family: Yet I had not mentioned them, but to tell you at the same Time and Place Mr. Sutton, the King's Messenger, found among other Papers, one of the late King James' old Commissions.  
But Lunt and Wilson deposed, That he had received a new Commission from the late King James, and Mr. Dodsworth's Depositions say, that Mr. Tildesly being advised by Mr. Dalton upon the Noise of the Discovery to burn it, he said, He would burn himself before he would do it.  
At Mr. Massey's of Puddington in Cheshire, Mr. Jackson 
* Vid. Dodsworth's Depositions in the Appendix.  the Constable found, July the 4th 1694, put into a Chest, covered over with an old long Pillow, Nine new Dragoon Saddles, with Buckles, Rings and Staples fixed to them for Breastplates, Holsters and Cloaks with Cruppers, Girths and Stirrups to them, all new, and six new Half-cheek Bit-bridles. This, I suppose, was Mr. Massey's Share upon the general Dividend, mentioned by Mr. Womball to be made a little before the Battle at la Hogue.  
But if in Favour to Persons of these Gentleman's Characters and Qualities, the Government was obliged to wink at, or overlook, all these Preparations for War; how will Mr. Shakerley, Mr. Banks, Mr. Beresford, Sr. W. W. Mr. Taffe or Mr. Hat, 
* Vid. his Depositions in the Appendix.  descend themselves against a virulent Paper, found in Mr. Standish's Closet at the Search made at Standish-Hall July 16. 1694, 
* Found by Capt. Baker & the Original delivered by him into the House of commons.  containing Heads for a Remonstrance, or Declaration, to be Printed and Published at King James' Landing, which according to Mr. Crosby's Papers and Mr. Robinson's Depositions, to be attempted very speedily. The original Paper was delivered into the House of Commons when the Plot was examined, and there it still remains. The whole is so sttuffed with Scandal, Malice and bitterness of the Party against the King and Government, that I think it not worth the charge and trouble of procuring a Copy, much less to recite it unless I designed to affright the Modest, or poison the unwary Reader.  
Now after all this, I cannot but stand amazed at the Confidence of those Gentlemen, who industriously sought to shame and ridicule the Lancashire Plot; for if all that has been proved already, might, in Compliment to their Quality, pass for nothing (which it can never do among uninteressed Men,) yet this very Scandalous, Mutinous and bloody Paper, as any Man will judge it to be that reads it and never was denied to be found in Mr. Standish's Custody, is sufficient to prove that a Conspiracy against the King and Government was hatching, and almost came to Perfection among them; and that having formed a Rebellion and Insurrection in the Northern Parts, this Paper (when finished by the rest of the Club) was to be Printed to justify their Proceed, and encourage others to join with them; for no other Construction can be put upon it, tho' the unbiass'd Reader had all the Charity and good Nature, which these Gentlemen seem to want.  
As many of the Gentlemen and others accused, as could be found, being taken into Custody, they are brought up to London to be examined; and after Examination, some were committed to the Tower, and others to Newgate, where they continued about a Month: During which time their Friends and Solicitors, exerted all their diligence to take off the King's Evidences, by 
* See Agnes Baker's Depositions, Elizabeth Hearft's Deposition and Mr. Claytons' Desition, in the Appendix.  offering them large Sums, that failing to find out Persons who either out of Malice, or hopes of a future Reward, would load the King's Witnesses with such Crimes as would take away the Credit of their Evidence. And truly this was all the Game they had now to play, for Matters of Fact being so legible and the Truth as apparent as the Sun on the Meridian, there was no way to prevent the Gentleman's being found guilty, but by representing the Witnesses under such heinous Characters, as the Jury might not believe what they deposed. To accomplish this end in Scandalising the Evidences, many Persons were practised upon, 
* See Claytons' Brown's Affidavit, Eliz. Hearsts and Ann eliot's in the pendix.  some of which refused so base an Action, but others through great importunities and promises of large Rewards, were brought to say such things against some of the Evidences, both at Manchester and in the Parliament-House, which the Procurers had dictated to them; all which were utterly False and Scandalous, as hath since been Acknowledged upon the Oaths of the very Persons, who were prevailed upon to declare them in the House of Commons.  
But that which raised the great Clamour against the Discovery of the Plot, and put a new Life into the Plotters, was gaining Mr. Taffe to the other side, which happened on this Manner.  
When Mr. Lunt came last out of France, December 1693 (being troubled in Conscience for having engaged in the barbarous Design of assassinating the King, and resolving to atone for that Crime, by discovering all he knew that had been acted, or was then plotting against the King's Majesty and his Government,) his coming over was made known to Mr. Taffe (a too familiar acquaintance of Lunt's Wife,) who was represented to Lunt as a Person that had done some considerable Service to the Public: To him Lunt's Wife had told, that her Husband was lately come out of France; which made Taffe (who pretended to be zealous for the Government) inquire how Matters stood at St. Germains, adding, that if Lunt could discover any thing that might be serviceable to their Majesties, he would introduce him to a Person of Quality that would receive his Information. Lunt giving Credit to Taffe's pretended kindness, immediately showed his willingness to make a Discovery, and accordingly Taffe brought Lunt to the Right Honourable the Earl of Bellemont, told his Lordship, that Lunt was an honest Man, and Credit might be given to the Discovery he intended to make. After his Lordship had heard Lunts relation, he commanded him to wait on him again in two or three days, which Lunt obeying, and his Lordship being somewhat indisposed, he sent Lunt with his Lordship's Letter to Sir John Trenchard. Taffe accompanied him thither, and Mr. Secretary hearing what Lunt had to discover, first sent him into Kent, and afterwards commanded Lunt to put his Depositions into Writing and bring them to him. Lunt performed it. Taffe heard all the Information read, aggravated the Crimes, and appeared the most zealous and forward of any to have the Persons accused and brought to Justice; accordingly pretending to be serviceable in knowing the Country and People there, went down into Lancashire, assisted the Messengers in searching at Standish-Hall, and seizing the Arms; directed and assisted the King's Messengers in other Searches: Seizing some Persons, and bringing the Prisoners to Town, and in every thing showed an extraordinary Zeal in his Majesty's Service. Not withstanding;  
Whilst Taffe was in the Country I must not forget to acquaint my Reader, that tho' he seemed very Officious, and might have been much more useful than he was, in finding concealed Arms and Persons (if he had been Honest, and had made more use of his Head, and less of his Fingers;) the Manager of that Affair, and the King's Messengers, quickly perceiving his pilfering Practices to be very Injurious to the Inhabitants, as well as Scandalous to themselves, were forced to have as watchful an Eye upon him, as the business they were employed in; tho' notwithstanding all their Care, he committed some egregious Felonies, from Mr. Bartholomew Hesketh a Romish Priest near Preston in Lancashire, he stole a Silver Chalice and three or four Damask-Napkins, two of which Napkins he gave to a Whore he lay with at Salford near Manchester, whose Husband catching them in Bed together, had beat his Brains out, and spoilt his Evidence at Manchester, if People in the House had not prevented it, and the Chalice he was compelled by Captain Baker to restore (as Mr. Hesketh had directed) to Mrs. Taylor of Standish near Wiggan.  
At Mr. Molyneux of the Lodge, he seized a great Sum of Money, and had carried it off, if he had not been forcibly hindered by one of the King's Messengers; however tho' he lost the great Prize, which was thought to be near a thousand Pound, he found an opportunity of playing a small Game, and stole from thence also a Silver Chalice, an Altar Cloth, five or six Damask-Napkins, and a walking Cane, which Mr. Morisco the King's Messenger, with a little rough handling made him restore again to the Owner: These and other his scandalous Behaviours every where, was the only Reason that Mr. Aaron Smith and Mr. Baker, slighted and contemned him, as unfit to intermeddle in any public Business, which he perceiving, took up Resolutions to provide for himself, and make his Fortune among the Jacobites. However, to make a fair Show, and seem what he was not.  
Soon after he came to London, he waited on my Lord Bellemont, gave his Lordship an Account what Persons and Arms had been seized, that several Gentlemen had made their escapes, and that others absconded, and fled from Place to Place, to secure themselves; whereupon my Lord Bellemont asked Taffe, if this was the Business Lunt had discovered. Taffe answered it was, and that Lunt was the main Evidence and Discoverer of the Conspiracy, had been with them in the Country, was very well known at the respective places he had mentioned in his Depositions; and had done greater Service at his being there, if the Lancashire Gentlemen had not received notice from London of their coming ten days before they came to Standish-Hall. This fit of pretended Zeal, I know the Reader will think it very strange, when he arrives to the following Part of this History: But what can be expected from steady hardened Wretches of his Complexion but a train of Villainies to the end of the Chapter.  
This Account being given to my Lord Bellemont, Taffe addressed himself to Mr. Aaron Smith and Captain Baker, for the Reward of his Service, but finding himself slighted and reprimanded for his scandalous Behaviour, and (as he thought) not sufficiently rewarded for his Journey into Lancashire, he grew very angry and vowed a Revenge upon the Government even to the spoiling of the Plot, as he pleased to call it, and, if it were possible, the Ruin of all those that were concerned in it, particularly of Mr. Smith and Mr. Baker who had dealt so ungratefully by him.  
In order to execute this wretched Design, in acquitting the guilty and punishing the innocent, he is immediately upon the hunt after the Friends and Relations of the Prisoners, and knowing Mr. Legh of Lime was reputed the richest among them. Taffe was very solicitous to be acquainted with any Person, that was concerned for Mr. Legh's Safety.  
Whilst he was upon this Enquiry (in the Temple-walks) he meets with one Mr. Wybrand, desires him to speak to Captain Cottingham to bring him acquainted with some Friends of Mr. Legh's of Lime. For, saith he, Smith and Baker have used me barbarously, and I will be even with them and spoil the Plot. 
* See Wybrand's Depositions in the Appendix.  Mr. Wybrand desires Taffe to be ingenious with him, and tell him, whether he was concerned in the Plot, for he heard it would come to nothing. Taffe replies, he was no Evidence nor known any thing of the Plot himself; but he knew there was good Evidences against the Prisoners, and enough (as he worded it) to hang them all; but if he could speak with any Friend of Mr. Legh's, he might get a good Sum of Money and make his fortune, by telling him away how to save all their Lives; but Taffe after further Discourse, finding this Gentleman Mr. Wybrand not for his purpose, he leaves him; but gives not over his Search, till he is first met by Mrs. Dickinson, Wife to one of the Prisoners, and afterwards by Mr. Banks and Mr. Beresford, who were Friends, Relations, and as they demeaned themselves, were thought Solicitors for all the Prisoners. Taffe no sooner acquaints them with his Designs of spoiling the Plot and saving all the Prisoners Lives, but the Bargain was struck, his Terms agreed to, Twenty pounds is paid him in hand 
* Sworn in the House of Lords and Commons.  with assurance (as it's commonly reported) of a good Annuity for Life, to be settled in Lancashire, and now (lest he should cool) he is sent immediately into the Country to be their Champion Evidence, when the Trials should commence at Manchaster.  
This was the first Step that Taffe made towards spoiling of the Plot, the greatest Part whereof was either confessed by him, or proved against him in the House of Lords and Commons. But the Certainty of the Aunuity, and how much it amounts to, I cannot yet learn, tho' I have reason to believe it is considerable, since Mr. Dickinson told his Cousin Barker at the Trial at Manchester, that 
* See Mrs. Barker's Affidavit in the Appendix.  the gaining Taffe on their side, had cost them very dear.  
Here you see is a great Point gained (tho' after a very ill Manner) for the Prisoners. And this Success upon Taffe so fleshed their Solicitors, that they are now fit to attempt any thing for the Service of their Friends and Kindred.  
The next step they made is attempting upon Lunt, to which end Mr. Banks counterfeits himself Drunk, and afterwards by mean and little Artifices insinuates himself into a Familiarity with him, squeezes out of unwary Lunt the names of the King's Witnesses, and the whole Matter of their Evidence, with design to destroy it, which by the way was very unfair and dangerous Practice, and rather exceeds than equals read's Case in the Reign of King Charle's the Second; and I believe, if prosecuted in Westminster-Hall, would there have been judged one of the highest Crimes (under those that are Capital) and have met with a Sentence accordingly; but how great soever this Crime is, it will appear a very minute and inconsiderable one, when compared with these gentlemen's nefarious Practices, when the Matter was examined in Parliament, which shall be produced in due Time and Place.  
Having thus gained Taffe 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 a Morsel fit for the Devil's Stomach, into the Bowels of their Party, and by the like Clandestine Methods got the Names of the King's Witnesses and a Knowledge of what they could depose against the Prisoners, the next Attempt for Shamming the whole Plot, and setting the Prisoners in Statu quo prius, was engaging Ferguson to write in their Defence, to set up the Jacobites in general, and the Prisoners in particular, as an innocent and peaceable People, and to render their Accusers the very dregs of Mankind: To the end, that People might be prepossessed with favourable Opinions of the Gentlemen accused, and enraged with prejudice at the dismal Representation which Ferguson should make of the Witnesses before the Trials could begin, and this Stratagem had such a notable Effect, that the Popish Mob at Manchester animated by reading Ferguson's Libel (which was almost in every Hand in that Country) had resolved to prevent the Trials of the Prisoners, by stoning the King's Evidences to death, as they came into the Town; but those that knew the Scene, was better and closer laid for the Acquittal of the Gentlemen, than to do it by Force, prevailed with the Mob, under Assurance the Prisoners would be acquitted, to forbear the Execution of that inhuman Resolution till the Trials were ended; but no sooner was the Trial over and the Witnesses leaving the Town, but the Popish Mob endeavoured to stone them to death, and that in such a rude, barbarous and tumultuous Manner, that not only the Witnesses but an honest and worthy Gentleman of Counsel for the King, the King's Prosecutor, and the King's Clerk in the Crown Office, very narrowly escaped with their Lives, and all this done too, without fear or shame, in the very sight of my Lords the Judges in the Town of Manchester.  
The Trial begun at Manchester the 16th October 1694, where the King's Evidences proved, 
* See their several Deposions in the Appendix.  that the Prisoners at the Bar had received Commissions from the late King James, to raise War against their present Majesties and Government, and to that end had bought Arms, listed and subsisted Soldiers at their own Charge, and had frequent Correspondence with the late King James for the carrying on an Invasion and Rebellion against King William and Queen Mary, which having been already related, as to the Time, Manner and all other Circumstances, I shall forbear a further Recital here, and proceed to tell my Reader, that whilst the King's Witnesses were delivering their Evidences, Sir W. W. (though he afterwards treated the Prisoners Evidences with all imaginable Respect and Civility,) was observed to browbeat them, and by cross, impertinent and extraneous Questions, foreign to the Matter in Hand, endeavoured to baffle, puzzle, confound and entrap them, in what they Swore, but failing in that main Point of his Skill; he requires Mr. Lunt to point at the several Prisoners by Name: In doing which, some say he pointed at the wrong Man, tho' they were so huddled and crowded together, it was hard to say which was the Person he pointed at; however this gratified the Popish Mob, and raised a loud Laugh: But their Mirth continued not long; for one of my Lords the Judges commanding Lunt to Touch and Name all the accused Gentlemen with the Criers Staff, he named them all Right, nor had it been Material (in my Opinion) if he had been Guilty of a Misnomen, since Lunt had said upon Oath, that he never saw that Gentleman but once, which was in the Night too, and that also ' twns two Years since be saw him, that was pretended to be misnamed.  
However it gave Sir W. W. an Opportunity (though he was then one of the King's Counsel) to show which side he was on now as well as at the Trial of my Lords the Bishops.  
The King's Witnesses having delivered their Evidence against the Prisoners, and all agreeing with one another as to Matter of Fact; Witnesses were produced for the Prisoners, to invalidate the Testimony of those who had Sworn for the King; and such a Noise had the Jacobites made with these Witnesses, that greater Matters were expected from them, than performed by them, for at length their mountainous Boasting was delivered of a ridiculous Mouse. All that their Witnesses said, was only accusing the King's Witnesses of some petty Immoralities, that they pretended to have gathered from their own Mouths, in Alehouses and at other Compotations; but not one Word in disproof of what they had sworn against the Prisoners.  
And truly 'tis a wonder they said no more, nor no worse things against the King's Witnesses, when we consider by what Means they procured those that were Witnesses against the King's Evidences in Parliament, viz. Down right Bribery, and by telling them they were not to be put to their Oaths, and therefore not being in danger of Perjury, might safely and confidently tell all the Stories that Clark and Beresford had dictated to thembefore-hand: All which is now undeniably proved upon Oath, by the Persons themselves that were 
* See Clayton's and Brown 's Depositions in the Appendix.  bribed.  
But that which (I suppose) prevailed with the Jacobites to instruct these Witnesses no better, was the great Dependence they had on Taffe, and the stress they laid upon his Testimony, which in short was, that there was no Truth in the pretended Plot, the whole being a villainous Contrivance between himself and Lunt.  
Or rather to speak Truth was a wicked Contrivance between Taffe and Mrs. Dickinson and Clark and Beresford to shame the Plot, and acquit the Gentlemen accused; for if Lunt was as bad a Man as Taffe would render him, it no way destroys the Reality of the Plot (which to the eternal Reproach of them that contrived to ridicule it, or defend the Plotters) will remain True and stand as firm as a Rock (notwithstanding all the Batteries the Jacobites can raise to demolish it) if there was no such Man in the World as Mr. Lunt. And this I shall further prove, when I have taken leave of this Father Vincent, Thomas O Mullen, John Taffe, Teague O Devilly, who for making his Fortune has confessed himself one of the greatest Villains in the World, nay to gratify his Lancashire Benefactors, has made himself a greater Rogue than he was in attributing such Hellish Contrivances to his own, and Lunts Invention, which was only a Calumny invented by the Devil against Lunt and rammed down Taffe 's Throat by the Lancashire Papists.  
Some Men undergo hard Censures in the World from the ill Character given them by their professed Enemies, out of Malice and Hatred, and these are to be pitied if not wholly excused; but for the Man that calls himself the worst of Men (and that in solemn Judicial Proceed where his Affirmative aught to have equal Credit with an Oath,) there is no Apology, for tho' it destroys what he says of another, 'tis the best Evidence in the World against himself, and will be so esteemed by all Mankind: And yet this Man's single say-so without any Oath, contrary to the Oaths of twenty several Witnesses for the King, which corroborate the Testimonies of ten positive Witnesses that discovered the Plot, was all the ground the Jacobites had to redicule it and rail against the Government for prosecuting the Offenders, and call the Plot a shamm-Contrivance of some little Ministers to enrich themselves by the ruin of the Persons accused; tho' now that Calumny too is proved a mere Invention of the Mercenary Scribbler, by making the whole a Contrivance between Lunt and Taffe, which having no better Authority than the former will have a like Dismission in the Sequel.  
Divers Excuses and Apologies have been made by the Jacobites for Taffe, in owning himself to be so vile a wretch, some say it amounts to nothing unless he were also guilty of Perjury; and if that be true, then there is no Credit at all to be given to him, for he 
* See Mr. Wybrand's Affidavit.  swore his Name was John Taffe, when it may be proved by the Oaths of hundreds, that his Name is Thomas O Mullen; but having committed so many egregious Crimes under that Name, that he was forced to fly his Native Country, Ireland, and Lucifer-like leave his right name behind him, he assumed that of John Taffe; tho' it seems there is no greater Sanctity in this than the other. For under this Name he also forswore himself in the House of Lords in the Service of the Lancashire Gentlemen; for which their Lordships committed him, and for which he had been Prosecuted in the Kings-Bench to a Conviction, if he had not fled from Justice, and hid 
* See the Secretary's Warrant (to apprehnd him) in custody of Mr. Barker of Warrington in Lancashire.  himself so privately among his Friends in Lancashire that he could not be apprehended.  
Others plead in his Excuse, that his saying Lunt and himself made the Plot, was an effect of his Repentance, and the only Satisfaction he could make for having gone so far, and contrived so much Mischief already; and truly I should not only have allowed this Excuse; but highly commended and encouraged the Action, if it had been true, and Conscience had been the Motive to this Discovery; but seeing the Plot proved by other credible Witnesses whilst Lunt acted in it, I cannot believe what Taffe would suggest to the contrary, especially when filthy Lucre, putting a great sum of ready Money into his Pockets, 
See Mr. Wybrand' s Deposition in the Appendix.  and making his Fortune for the future is proved to be the only Inducement he had to declare what he did at Manchester. For,  
If Mr. Smith, or Mr. Baker, had concealed their Resentments of his base and dishonest Practices and answered his over-large Demands, you had heard nothing of all this; but in complying with the Conspirators he both gratified his Revenge and his Covetousness together, for no other end does he propose to Mr. Wybrand in desiring to be acquainted with some Friend of Mr. Leghs; but because there was Money enough and he might make his Fortune: Nor was it in kindness to the Gentlemen to save their Lives, but in kindness to himself, that he Mortgaged his Soul to purchase an Annuity. And that there was no Truth in what he said at the Trial at Manchester is plain, for he acknowledges, that there was not only Witnesses enough to take away all the Prisoners Lives, but these Witnesses were good ones, and very Honest Men; and being told by Mr. 
* See Mr. Wybrands Depositions in the Appendix.  Wybrand, that it looked like a Contradiction, or an Impossibility to save men's Lives accused of High Treason, and that Treason (by his own Confession) proved against them by several creditable and substantial Testimonies, Taffe alias O Mullen replied, it was no matter for that; if the Gentlemen would give him Money to make his Fortune, he would contrive a way to do it.  
Again, if Conscience had been the Motive, why did he go so far in it? Why was he so active in seizing of Arms, and apprehending the Conspirators? If he knew it to be a Piece of Roguery, he must know it to be so from the Beginning; for he introduced Lunt to the Earl of Bellemont, read Lunt's Depositions taken before Mr. Secretary Trenchard: And knew the Transactions of the whole Matter, why then did he not relate it before? Why did he not declare it to the Lord Bellemont, Mr. Secretary Trenchard, Mr. Attorney General, Mr. Aaron Smith or some other proper Officer. This had been the honestest and easiest Way to have put a Stop to all Proceed? And had been fair, candid and upright Dealing, as well on the behalf of the Government as the Gentlemen. But, alas, this would have quite spoiled the making of his Fortune.  
Again, if what Taffe says (in relation to Mr. Lunt's Evidence) had any kind of Truth in it, it no way answers the End for which it is designed; for the Truth of the Plot does not (as I have said before) depend only upon Lunt's single Evidence, but upon the Discovery of Mr. Kelly, Mr. Dodsworth, Mr. Robinson, Mr. Cawson and the Ships Company, the Custom-house-Officers, and several Persons of Quality and others in Lancashire, whilst Lunt was acting in it; nor was the Discovery from Manchester the Act of any single Person, who might be liable to be imposed upon; but the premeditated Act of the whole Bench of Justices at their Sessions in Manchester, as appears by the Letter to his Grace the Lord Duke of Shrewsbury; which was also seconded by several others of his Majesty's Justices of the Peace in their Session from other 
* See the Letter from Middleton in the Appendix.  Parts of the County, as well as from many private Gentlemen. So that Taffe must say something to disprove all these Matters of Fact, attested by so many Honourable Persons, and others of known Reputation before he or any of that Party can hope to gain Credit to what they said against Lunt. But this was the subtle Trick of the Conspirators and their Multinominal Friends, to leap over all former Discoveries, and fall foul upon Lunt, and endeavour to persuade the World, that he invented and contrived the Plot in May and June, 1694. Whereas Lunt, and all the rest of the King's Evidences depose the Plot begun in the latter end of the Year 1688, and in the Year 1689, and by several Progressions continued till 1694. So that what Taffe says, must of necessity be false, both as to the Fact and Time. Besides,  
What Taffe says (without reflecting upon his former vile and lewd Conversation, in being a Renegado Irish Popish Priest, changing his Name, and being manifestly guilty of Felony and Perjury) is only his own naked Affirmation procured by Bribery; but what Lunt has sworn as to the Plot in general, nay almost in every Particular, is confirmed by the best and surest Testimonies in the World.  
But since what Taffe had the Impudence to affirm has made so much Noise abroad, and seemed the only Reason why Sr. W. W, threw up the Trial, I will sum up both their Evidences, and leave the Reader to judge which of them is most reasonable to be believed among the sober and unprejudiced Part of Mankind. Father Vincent, 
* All these Names be went by.  alias Thomas O Mullen, alias John Taffe says (but not upon his Oath) There was no Truth in the Plot, but that the Whole was a Contrivance between him and Lunt, in or about May 1694, but has no Evidence or Circumstance to confirm what he so boldly affirms, nor has any thing to say further in the Whole.  
Mr. Lunt deposeth, that he followed the late King James into France, and from thence into Ireland, and confirms it by a 
* Which is now among the rest of the Papers in the Custody of the Clerk of the Parliament.  Pass under the Hand and Seal of the Lord Melfort.  
Lunt deposeth, that in France and Ireland he was acquainted with Bromfeild, who negotiated Affairs (in Order to a Rebellion) between the late King James and the Lancashire Gentlemen: But being discovered, the Vessel he had bought, taken, and himself in great Danger, he thought it not safe to go any more thither, but having brought word that the Gentlemen had embraced the late King's Commands, and only wanted Commissions, the Carriage of the Commissions was to be performed by Mr. Thrillfall and himself, and this he confirms by the Oaths of Mr. John Edward's, 
See their several Depositions in the Appendix.  George Wilson, John Wilson, Elizabeth Langley, Elizabeth Hearst, and the Master of the Vessel and five Seamen.  
Lunt deposeth, that in or about June 1689, he and Mr. Thrillfall of Goosner in Lancashire sailed from Ireland in Mr. Cawson's Ship, landed at Cockram in Lancashire; brought over several Commissions to the Lancashire Gentlemen, some of which were left in the Ship, and taken by the Officers of the Customs, and are now in the Hands of the Government, this is proved by Mr. Cawson the Master of the Ship, that brought Lunt and Thrillfall out of Ireland, all the Seamen in the Ship and by the Officers of the Customs, that seized the Commissions, besides the Noble Peers aforenamed that examined the whole Matter in Lancashire, and the Commissions themselves seen by Mr. Robinson, and are now in the Custody of the Clerk of the Parliament.  
Mr. Lunt deposeth, that after he delivered the Commissions above named, the Lancashire Gentlemen having form a Rebellion, employed him and others to list Men and send them into Lancashire, which he did, and subsisted them at the charge of the Gentlemen accused, in order to be ready for the Service of King James when called for, and this is proved by the Affidavits of John Wilson, Laurence Brandon, Robert Bradly, Elizabeth Hearst, Elizabeth Langley, and many others, as also virtually confirmed by the Letter from the Quarter Sessions at Manchester, signed by eight Justices of the Peace, 
See the Letter in the Appendix.  dated 18th October 1689, where they desire his Grace the Duke of Shrewsbury to acquaint the King's Majesty, That there hath been some modelling of Officers and Men, preparatory to their hopes of an Invasion or Insurrection; and tho' our Goals (say they) are full of Irish Papists, yet we have frequent Account of many others at Popish Houses.  
Mr. Kelly in his Information, 
See his Information in the Appendix.  tells you also, that, to his own knowledge, Mr. Thomas Tatlock of Symonds-Wood in the Parish of Sefton Lancashire, did for above a Month together harbour threescore Irish Men, who had been Soldiers to the late King James, and disbanded at Hounslo-Heath, and were then listed under Gentlemen in Lancashire for the same Service; that Arms and Furniture fitted for them were hid in that Wood, and that Mr. Molyneux of Mosbrow did harbour about twenty Irish Men for the Service of King James: Nay some of the very Persons accused by Lunt 1694 were inpeached by Mr. Kelly in the Year 1690 and were then looked upon as very dangerous Persons to the Government, as appears by a Letter to a Minister of State, dated at Middleton April 9th. 1690 
* See the Letter from Middleton in the Appendix.  and signed by five Gentlemen, to which we add, that Crosby's Papers 
* in the Appendix.  affirm there were four Thousand Men actually listed in the North for the Service of that King, there needs no more be said in the Matter.  
So that the Plot in Lancashire against the King and Government could not be a Contrivance of Taffe and Lunt in 1694, it being thus credibly discovered, and Search made after the Conspirators in 1690, whilst Mr. Lunt was acting in it, and had been prosecuted with effect then, if the Jacobites had not provided for their own Safety by removing Mr. Kelly into another World; as not long after they served Mr. Dodsworth by Murdering him as soon as they heard of 
* this Correspondence will be proved by Mrs. Dodsworth who was privy to it.  a Correspondence and Letters passing betwixt him and Lunt.  
Now were not the whole Proceed in behalf of the Conspirators so plainly proved to be made up of Fraud, Fallacy, Bribery and Barbarity, a Man would wonder with what Face they could impose Taffe's Lies upon the World, or endeavour to baffle Lunt's Testimony, which hath so many undeniable Witnesses to confirm it. But,  
Sir W.W. laying so great stress upon what was said by Taffe, as to refuse to proceed further in the Trial at Manchester, I beg his Worships Leave to ask him a few modest Questions, viz.  
When the Master of the Vessel brought Lunt and Thrillfall out of Ireland, was apprehended and carrying up to London for so doing, and by accident hearing of Lunt's being a Prisoner in Coventry, charged him to be one of the Persons that brought those Commissions from the late King James; which were found in his Vessel; Whether that was of Taffe 's Contrivance?  
When Lunt was committed to Newgate upon the Oath of Mr. Cawson and the five Seamen for bringing over these Commissions, and afterwards (in great Danger of Hanging) committed to Lancaster Goal for high Treason (where he lay three Assizes) Was that of Taffe's contriving?  
When Mr. Thrillfall having delivered the late King James' Commissions in Yorkshire, and being accused for it by Mr. Dodsworth, and like to be apprehended by the Lancashire Militia, chose rather to be killed than to be taken? Was that Mr. Taffe's Contrivance?  
Was the Discovery of the Kettledrums that were bought by C. P. by Order of Coll. Parker and sent to Standish-Hall, of his contrivance? The first hiding, and than finding and seizing (walled up in a Garret) all the Arms and Saddles aforementioned, Was that also of Taffe's Contrivance?  
If so I assure you Sir W.W. he is a very Wagg, and for aught, I know, that the Gentlemen when accused of high Treason and Prisoners in the Tower, had by their Friends frequent Consultation with, and Advice and Directions from, one that was then of the King's Council. Before they consulted with Sir Bartholomew Shewer, might be of his Contrivance also.  
Nay since Taffe is so excellent at contriving, the very procuring Sir W.W. to be the sole Manager of the Trial at Manchester (from which many honest Men foretold what happened) might be of his Contrivance too, and if it was the Lancashire and Cheshire Gentlemen are more obliged to Taffe for that piece of excellent Service, than for all that he swallowed in London, or disgorged at Manchester. For if all the King's Witnesses might have been heard, what Taffe said there would have signified nothing.  
However, a Contrivance there was, and tho' it does not effect Lunt (as they would have it) in forging the Plot. It lies very close and heavy on Mr. Dickinson, Mr. B*kss and Mr. B***ford; for bribing Taffe to say so: And also Sir W.W. who upon Taffe's Evidence would proceed no further in the Trial at Manchester; but sat down like a winning Gamester, unwilling to tempt his Fortune, and positively refused any more of the King's Witnesses to be heard, tho' at the same time he knew there were many, whose Names were in his Breviat, more especially one that was a Prisoner for the same Treason with the Gentlemen, which could have cleared all the seeming, or pretended difficulties in the whole Matter, might he have been heard.  
This Politic Piece of Chicanery strongly amazed the King's Prosecutors, that one of the King's Council should so far influence the rest, as all (but one) should refuse or neglect to let all the King's Witnesses he heard; whereupon Mr. Bale the King's Prosecutor (being put upon it by Captain Baker) prayed Sir W. W. twice, that the rest of the King's Witnesses might be called, and being refused by Sir W.W. Mr. Bale addresses himself to the Court, insomuch, that my Lords the Judges urged the Witnesses being heard, that had not yet deposed: But all was to no purpose, Sir W. W's. having gained the Point for the Prisoners, and knowing he could not proceed further without eminent Danger, would not condescend to open, but kept his mouth as close as if his Lips had been sealed with cross Sceptres; till Richard Knapp Esq who was also of Council for the King at the Trial, desired Sir W. W. that the rest of the King's Witnesses (whose Names and what they could swear was in his Breviat) might be called and heard, and then, in great Passion, but with little Decency, Sr. W. W. replied, He would not suffer it, and none but a Knave or a Fool would desire it. 
* Sworn by Mr. Knapp in the House of Lords.  Thus the Session ended, and if this was not a horrible Contrivance against the Government, certainly there never was one in the World: Yea so open and barefaced was this Lancashire Juggle, that some of the Jacobites themselves were ashamed of it, and Mr. Upton (who was one of the Council for the Prisoners) bantered Mr. Aaron Smith with it at Manchester, saying, If the Judges intended to try Mr. Legh at Chester, Mr. Legh resolved to retain Sr. W. W. for his Council, for he believed, none of his own Council could do his Business so effectually.  
Sr. W. W. having thus gratified his old Clients, Friends and Neighbours with an unexpected Deliverance, to complete the Scene (for Malice is like one of the four Things that never say, 'Tis enough) away he posts from Manchester to London, and there makes such a black and dismal Representation of the King's Witnesses for forging a Plot (before any could reach the Court to disprove him) that the Government, in Abhorrence of such a Fact, as it was represented to be by Sr. W. W. immediately ordered the Witnesses to be indicted in the Court of King's Bench, for a Conspiracy against the Lives and Estates of the Lancashire and Cheshire Gentlemen, and the Witnesses, at their return to London, were accordingly committed to the King's Bench Prison, in order to their Trial upon that Indictment.  
This strange Turn being given, many of the wiser Sort, of those that were Friends to the accused Gentlemen, and dreaded the Consequence of a melius inquirendum, advised them to sit down quietly; and leave it to the Government to punish their Accusers, if they saw fit (and happy had it been for the Gentlemen, if their Advice had been followed) but some Lawyers, and their  Solicitors overrule this Advice, and not being contented, unless some of the tallest Cedars might be rooted up, and sacrificed to their Humour or Lust of Revenge.  
The Lancashire and Cheshire Gentlemen brought the Affair into the Honourable House of Commons. And to know how they and their Solicitors managed the Matter there, it will be worth the Reader's Time to read over Mr. Clayton's and Brown's Informations in the Appendix, which will show him by what base, unjust and indirect Methods they carried on the Affair of slandering the King's Evidences, and vilely abused 
* Earl of Macclesfield.  a Noble Peer, who for being a known Friend to the Government, they thought of consequence was their mortal Enemy.  
The Honourable House of Commons, after several Hear and long Debates, which continued at the several appointed Times, 
See the Journal of the House of Commons.  the Space of seventeen Weeks: On Wednesday the 6th Day of February, according to the Order of the Day, proceeded further in reading the Informations and Papers delivered into the House by Mr. Aaron Smith, touching the late Proceed and Trials in Lancashire and Cheshire, and Mr. Lunt's Information was read through, and also Mr. Wilson's and Mr. Womballs Informations, and the other Papers delivered into the House by Mr. Aaron Smith were also read, among which were several Printed Papers. And it was then Resolved.  
That it does appear to this House, that there was sufficient Grounds for the Prosecutions and Trials of the Gentlemen at Manchester.  
Resolved,  
That upon the Informations and Examinations before this House, It does appear there was a dangerous PLOT carried on against the King and Government.  
Neither was this all, but that Honourable House (after an Order of the House, That Mr. Standish of Standish-hall in Laneashire should be taken into Custody, and their Messenger returned and reported he was fled) addressed the King's Majesty to issue out His Royal Proclamation for the apprehending Mr. Standish; but he upon Notice of it, fled into France, the then Common Sanctuary for the Enemies of the English Nation.  
This Disappointment in the House of Commons so contrary to the Expectations of the Party, and the Promises they fed themselves withal, tho' it was a great Mortification to the whole Party, yet in hopes of better Success, they lay their Complaint also before the Right Honourable the House of Peers, where after examining some Witnesses, and many Debates had, the Question being put, Whether the Government had sufficient Cause to Prosecute the Lancashire and Cheshire Gentlemen. It was carried in the Affirmative.  
All this while the poor Creatures, who were Witnesses for the King, were left in a starving Condition, and under barbarous Usage four Months in the Common-side in the Kings-Bench Prison, upon the Indictment of Conspiracy before named; till their Council in Hillary Term 1694, moving the Court of Kings-Bench, that they might either be tried or admitted to bail; the latter was granted them; but the Time for their Trial could not be yet ascertained.  
In Easter-Term following, they expected to be tried, but were not. In Trinity-Term following they pressed for a Trial, and were assured by Mr. Aaron Smith they should be tried, either the last day of the Term, or the Sitting after the Term, and in order to their Trial Mr. Smith called them together, and jointly asked them these questions.  
Whether (Sir John Trenchard being dead) they would admit of the Informations they gave before Sir. John upon Oath, as Evidence, without further Proof of the same being so given?  
Whether they would admit of the Trials and Acquittals of the Gentlemen in Lancashire, without producing Records, Witnesses, etc.  
To which they unanimously replied (being very desirous of a Trial) That they would, and for the ease of the Government, saving Expense, and that Truth might appear in a Legal Trial, would also be obliged by a Rule of Court, not only to admit the Things there propounded by Mr. Smith, but every Matter, or Thing else, that might expedite their Trials, save only owning themselves guilty.  
Having this Assurance of a Trial, the Witnesses took out Post-Warrants, bespoke Subpoenas, and engaged Persons to serve them; but when ready for their Journey, the Defendants had notice from Mr. Attorney General Ward, that he could not try them that Term, it's said he consulted with some of the King's Council, and they for Reasons, best known to themselves, resolved they should not be tried.  
Now a new Scene appears, and instead of trying them upon the Indictment of Conspiracy, which above all things, one would think, the Gentlemen should have been most solicitous for.  
The next Lancaster Assizes, August 1695, the Gentlemen having a Grand-Jury wherein were four or five Persons, which had never taken the Oaths of Fidelity to their Majesties, 
* See the Panel in the Office.  but were known Enemies to the Government. A Sheriff, and consequently a Pettit Jury, for their Turn, which were most of them Tenants to the Popish Gentlemen, they brought on Trials upon an Information of Perjury against three of the Witnesses, without giving Notice to any of the Defendants, and managed the Trials with so much Scandal, and so animated the Popish Mob to awe the Court by a great Concourse of disaffected Persons from all Parts of England, that one of their own Party exclaimed against it to a Person of great Quality, who was then in the Country: And besides all this, one of the Persons, which the Witnesses had Accused of High-Treason, was a Witness against them, upon the Indictment of Perjury; and then none will scruple believing, but they would acquit themselves and load their Adversaries, having this advantage of being their own Compurgators. And so as it was laid, it happened, the Witnesses were all found Guilty.  
This Advantage over the Innocent Evidences, so exalted the Party, they could not forbear expressing their Joy at it, by ungrateful Reflections upon his Majesty's Government in all public Companies, and because some Body in the Government (they care not who) must always be blamed as the Cause of their Trouble, some of the Party were so void of shame, as (after the Witnesses were convicted of Perjury) to tell the Honourable Judge Turton, that the Earl of Macclesfeild, being Lord Lieutenant of the County of Lancashire, had sent down thither great Quantities of Arms, and immediately added this malicious Innuendo, and what if his Lordship designs thereby to entrap us. An Inference so full of Venom, and so wickedly False, that nothing could be guilty of it, that had a Grain of Honesty or good Manners, for his Lordship was never acquainted with any thing in that Prosecution.  
In Michaelmas-Term following, the Witnesses moved the Court of Kings-Bench, that the aforesaid Trials might be set aside, for that the Defendants had no notice of them, and after very hard struggling with the Popish Gentleman's Council, Sir Bartholomew Shewer, Mr. Northey, Mr. Harcourt, etc. for four or five Days, notwithstanding several odd Affidavits, made, and procured to be made by Mr. Legh and Mr. Simon Harcourt of the Crown-Office these Trials at Lancaster (upon the irregular Practices that appeared to have been committed) were set aside by the Court.  
The same Term Mr. Attorney General, by the King's Council Mr. Cooper, moved the Court of Kings-Bench, that Lunt, Womball and Wilson, might be tried upon the Indictment of Conspiracy the next Term, being Hillary, a Rule of Court was made for it, and Mr. Robert Wintour the King's Clerk in the Crown-Office was ordered to give the Defendants notice of it, and be ready for it at their own Perils.  
The Defendants received this Notice with great Satisfaction, as the only means to acquit themselves of the horrid Imputations they had long suffered under, and in order to it, engage all their Friends to assist them with what Money they could, and at a very great Expense, Subpoena'd and brought up to London out of Lancashire, Cheshire and North-wales, more than twenty Witnesses, besides fifteen or sixteen more they had in or about London, which would have cleared and justified every Article in their Informations against the Gentlemen.  
The Term being come, the Witnesses brought to London, and no certain day appointed by the King's Prosecutors for the Trial, Mr. Attorney General was attended, and requested to name a short one, in respect of the great Charge the Defendants were at in keeping so many Witnesses in Town; to which his Honour was pleased to answer, he would take care of it; but three or four days after, when all the Witnesses out of the Country, and in or near the Town, were ready, and their Council retained, Mr. Attorney General gave notice, he would not bring on the Trials, and ordered Mr. Wintour the King's Clerk in the Crown-Office, to countermand it.  
Next day after, the Defendants gave notice they would move the Court (though they were told they could have no remedy there against the King) whereupon the King's Managers, in the Attorney General's Name, offered to pay the Defendants Costs, if they would for bear the Motion, but the Defendants refused the Offer, and the Court was moved the next day; and Mr. Attorney General and Sergeant Gold, being sent for into Court, the Court asked them, why they refused to try the Defendants, since there was a Rule of Court made the last Term for their being tried in this?  
Mr. Attorney and Sergeant Gold, answered, they had no Witnesses (which was not his Fault.) For how was it possible for Mr. Attorney to have Witnesses, unless the Lancashire Gentlemen or their Solicitors furnished him with them; and truly their refusing to do it, after such timely Notice given them, by Mr. Attorney's Order, looks so like a Trick, or an Abuse put upon Mr. Attorney by the Jacobites, that he must have Abundance of good, Nature if he forgive them) the Court replied in Words to this purpose, how Mr. Attorney, do you indict Men for a Conspiracy, keep them in Prison, or under Bail above a twelve Month, move yourself for a Trial the last Term, give the Defendants Notice they must be tried in this, and their Witnesses being in Town, do you say you have no Witnesses against them, these are very strange Proceed and hard upon the Defendants. We cannot award Costs against the King; we can only recommend it to Mr. Attorney, and so we do. Upon which Mr. Attorney General promised to pay the Defendants Costs. And here I suppose is an end of all the Gentleman's Pretences against the King's Witnesses; for since they have declined their Proof, and will not suffer the Law to decide it, especially, when all the Prosecutions were carried on at the King's Charge; it is an evident Presumption they have no Proof to make, that will bear the Scrutiny of Westminster-Hall.  
The Lancashire Plotters and the rest of the Conspirators, being thus disappointed in the Year 1694, one might reasonably expect the Jacobites would have given over a Toil and Trouble, that had so often endangered their Lives and Fortunes, by its ill Successes and repeated Discoveries; but on the contrary, they are more enraged at their Misfortunes, grow desperate at their Disappointments, and carry on both their Plots (of Assassination and Invasion) at the very Time, when the Lancashire Gentlemen were endeavouring to prove themselves peaceable Subjects to the King and Government in both Houses of Parliament: For Capt. Waugh of Brentford, who was sent over by the Jacobites in November 1694, to concert their Affairs in France, addresses to Coll. Parker, Mr. Caryl, and the other Confederates of the Party, who telling him, the French were not yet at Leisure to furnish the English Jacobites withso many Men as were desired for the Invasion, fell upon what they thought would more speedily accomplish their Designs in the Restoration of their old Master, and that was, Murdering King WILLIAM.  
These Persons had been so long in the Secret, that they agreed upon the Methods, but because there were some Jacobites that had not yet so far extinguished all Sense of Honour and Conscience, but that they utterly refused to be concerned in such a black and horrid Enterprise, as the Assassination; and others scrupled engaging in it, unless they had a Commission from the late King for that Purpose, and that this Year would also be lost, unless the Design were quickly put in Execution; it was agreed, that Mr. Waugh should forthwith return into England, and give the Jacobites Assurance, that those that would engage in the Assassination should have the Commission desired immediately sent them by a safe Hand; and those that were for the Invasion, should have their Spirits kept up with the Hopes of a Powerful Assistance from France, as soon as the Blow was given, and these two Things they thought would effectually employ both the Factions, without clashing or intersering; that both the Plots might succeed to their Wishes.  
About the latter end of February 
* 1694. , Mr. Waugh returns from France, visits his Friends the Jacobites in London, and gives them an Account what the grand Plotters in France thought would be the most expeditious and effectual Project to restore the late King James, viz. Killing King William, for which Action there would quickly be sent a Commission from the late King to command the doing of it, and an Order to all his General Officers which were then in England to be aiding and assisting in the Enterprise: And that in the mean time all things ought to be so well adjusted among themselves here, that there might be no time lost, nor nothing to do when the Commission came, but to put it in Execution.  
At this Juncture comes Major Crosby also from France, 
March 20. 1094.  with Assurance, That he saw the Commission signed, and under Seal in France, that it was sent away before him, and if not already come, he was certain it was upon the Road, and would be here in a few days. This was communicated to all the Assassinates, in order to cut off his Majesty before he went to Holland, but that God that designed him for a further Blessing to England, prevented their Treachery, and conveyed him safe to his Army in Flanders. Now,  
If the Jacobites inquire, how I prove this Plot upon the King's Life, so early as to be laid in January and February 1694, and to be executed in the beginning of April 1695, that was (say they) scarce heard off till a twelve Month after, they may please to know, that, besides my being told of it by Captain Blaire, Mr. De la Rue swears it at Mr. Charnocks Trial, p. 37. And Sir John Fenwick, when living, was one of the King's Evidence in this Matter, and declared it in a Paper annexed to the Lady Mary Fenwicks' Petition, praying a Repreive for Sir John Fenwick, delivered into the House of Lords, January 22th 1696 
* Vidahe Lords Journal.  in these Words.  
The beginning of the Weck the Parliament was prorogued, I was walking in the Court of Requests, and there came to me Sir William Perkins, Mr. Porter and Mr. Charnock, 
* Mr. Waugh was there also with the same Company but Sir John names him not.  and asked me if I did not know of an Order come from King James, directed to those that had been General Officers under him, I answered them I knew nothing of any Order from him, and asked for what purpose it should be. They told me they had for some time expected a Commission from King James to seize King William, and that Mr. Crosby was newly come over and required of them, if they had not received such a Commission? They told him, they had not, he said he wondered at it, for he saw it signed before he came away from St. Germains; and also an Order to the General Officers to be aiding and assisting to them. I told them, I believed what Crosby said was False, that it was a Scandal upon King James, and I was sure he never would give any such Commission or Order for so base an Action. That they could intent no less by seizing the King than to Murder him, upon which Sir W. Perkins said, the Parliament would be Prorogued on Friday next, and then the King would go for Flanders, and that Saturday was the only day they had left to do it, and tho', the Commission was not come, they would not lose the Opportunity of attempting it as he returned from Richmond that Night, and swore he should never go out of England alive.  
Mr. Porter and Mr. Charnock said, they were resolved of it, and though the Commission was not yet come, Crosby assured them it must be upon the Road, for it was come away before him.  
I used all Arguments against it, and told them what Injury they would do King James, and bring certain Ruin upon all his Friends here; that if it was upon the Road, as Crosby said, it might be here on Saturday, and with much Persuasions prevailed with them to dine with me that day at Twelve a Clock at the Fountain-Tavern by the Temple-Gate, and got them to Promise they would do nothing in it till they met me there that day. We met accordingly: And I kept them there (discoursing upon the business, and showing them the baseness of the Action, and the impossibility of their succeeding, for none of King James 's Friends would back them in it) till it was too late to make any such Attempt: The King went for Flanders next Morning early, this I attest for Truth, and for this Reason I suppose they did not acquaint me with their Last Design.  
John Fenwick.  
Tho' the main end for which this Paper was designed, would admit of many severe Reflections, as wanting that Sincerity which might be expected from one in Sir John's Circumstances, and naming none of the Persons that managed that Treasonable Discourse in the Court of Requests, but what are either Dead, or in the Government; when he knew what a large share Mr. Waugh had in it, I shall content myself, and I hope satisfy my Reader, only in observing three things as the natural Consequence of what the Paper acquaints us with; Viz.  
That there was a Design to assassinate King William in the Year 1694 and 1695.  
That the late King James not only knew of it, but commanded it.  
That Sir John Fenwick knew of it, but did not discover it, and therefore no Objection lies, but that he might be acquainted with the last Design also.  
The Parliament was prorogued the 3d of May 1695, and the King set forward for Flanders the day following, so there being no hopes of Executing their barbarous Design till his Majesty's Return, they resolve so to employ the Summer, that Winter might find them ready to perform what they had so long and unsuccessfully resolved on. And that the Invasion might still accompany the Assassination, they revive the Latter, that it might be in a readiness to follow the Former, as soon as the fatal Stroke had made way for it. For this Purpose several Meetings are appointed, and particularly one was held in May 1695, at the Old Kings-Head in Leaden-Hall-street London, where met the Lord Aylesbury, the Lord Mountgomery, Sir John Friend, Sir William Perkins, Sir John Fenwick, Mr. Charnock, Mr. Cook, Captain Porter and Mr. Goodman who came in after Dinner, 
* See Mr. Porter's Deposition in Sir W. Perkins Trial, p. 14.  there they consulted of the best way to restore the late King James, and all agreed to send a Messenger over to the late King to desire him to procure of the French King ten thousand Men, viz. 1000 Horse, 1000 Dragoons and 8000 Foot. Mr. Charnock was the Person appointed to Manage this Affair, who said, he would not go on a foolish Errand, and therefore would know what the Company would do, if Foreign Forces could be procured, whereupon they all unanimously promised, if the late King would come over with such a Number of Men as was desired, they would meet him at the Head of two thousand Horse wherever he would appoint. At the latter End of June 1695 or beginning of July, they had another meeting, where after many public Discourses and private Whisper, Mr. Charnock desiring the Company to acquaint him, whether they continued their former Resolutions, they assured him they did, and would meet him with the Number of Men promised at the former Meeting. Upon which Mr. Charnock told them, he would begin his Journey in a few days.  
The Invasion being thus promoted by dispatching Mr. Charnock into France, that the Assassination might not lagg behind it; some of the Assassins calling to mind, that nothing would be attempted in that kind till the Commission, which Crosby said was upon the Road, was come to their Hands. 
See Goodman's Depositions taken April 24 1696,  Capt. Porter and Mr. Goodman communicate the Project to Sir George Barclay who was then in England, and upon his Departure for France telling him what Difficulties they laboured under for want of it, and that a longer Delay of the Commission would extremely embarrass the Affair. Sir George not only approves, but commends the Design, and that such a hopeful Project might not miscarry, promised to use all his Interest, when he came to St. Germains, that such a Commission should no longer be wanting.  
This Encouragement from so considerable a Favourite as Sir George Barclay (whose Biggotry to the Romish Persuasion, and the late King's Interest, would prompt him to any thing, in favour of them) employs all their Heads, and opens all their Purses, to contribute the last Assistance for the Accomplishment of the Assassination.  
The beginning of August 1695, brings Mr. Charnock again to London with the unwelcome News, that the French King was not in a Condition to spare the 
* See Charnocks Trial.  Jacobites such a Number of Men as they desired, which being imparted to the Chief of that unruly and bloodthirsty Faction, the two Branches of the Conspiracy to overthrow the established Government, were both laid aside till the approaching Winter should give them another Resurrection. But,  
Notwithstanding this positive Answer to the English Jacobites, our Foreign Enemies were at the same Time taking such Measures as might suit with the Request made by the Jacobites, tho' they durst not trust them with the Secret: For a great Politician being at Marli, and considering the Posture of Affairs in England, as represented to him in Crosby's Papers, he thought this the fairest Opportunity he could wish for the Invading of England: Whilst Mr. Caryl the late Queen's Secretary, Coll. Parker, etc. were carrying on the Plot to Assassinate his Majesty; for no question but a certain great Man in the World, that shall be nameless, knew what they were contriving at St. Germains, tho' they were utter Strangers to the Invasion-Plot, that was laying at another Place, which as it had the Honour of a great Mans own contriving, so it was not communicated even to the late King James himself, till the Squadron of Men of War, and four hundred Transport Ships were fitted, and the French Army consisting of thirty Battalions were ready to embark, and Money and Orders sent him to go on Board, and take possession of England.  
In November 1695, Sir George Barclay with several Officers and Soldiers and eight hundred Pounds in Money comes into England, and brings with him a Commission from King James (all written with his own Hand) to Seize King William, which Sir William Perkins confesses to a Committee of Parliament 
* See the Journal of the House of Commons April 2, 1696. And C. Porter's Depositions in Perkins Trial, p. 14.  that he saw: But neither Sir George Barclay, nor the Commission, being yet in the Hands of the Government, and the Jacobites ashamed to set up their late King and themselves under the inglorious Title of Murderers, they mince the Matter into more relishable Terms, and say it was only to levy War upon the Prince of Orange and all his Adherents. Others say it was to attach the Prince of Orange in his Winter Quarters, which are all mere Tricks and Evasions, invented by the Party to disguise the Horror of the Action; for the very Gloss they themselves put upon it, sets it in its true Light; for all the Party knew the meaning of attaching the Prince of Orange as appears by Mr. De la 
* As appears by Mr. De la rues Oath in Charnocks Trial  rues. Oath, who deposeth, that when the Muscatoon was lent by Mr. Porter to Mr. Pendergrass, that would carry six or eight Bullets, Mr. King desired him when he shot at his Majesty's Coach he would not be afraid of breaking the Glasses.  
Sr. George Barclay after his Arrival at London lodged in Covent-Garden, and kept very private, till he could speak with Sr. William Perkins, Capt. Waugh and Mr. Charnock; and that the two and twenty Men that were sent by King James out of France, and appointed to obey his Orders were come to London also; and now they endeavour to strengthen their Party by the Addition of more Friends. And Mr. De la Rue, Mr. Pendergrass, Mr. Rookwood, Major Lowick, Mr. Knightly, Mr. Bertram, Chambers, Durant, Cramburne, Kendrick, Grimes, Waugh and Goodman, some of which were engaged in the Assassination the Year before, were now again confirmed in it.  
As for Capt. Porter (who has now so Honourably and Honestly atoned for his former Offences,) they were sure of already, to others in whom they had not more than ordinary Confidence they discoursed of the Assassination at a distance, 
* See Captain Blairs Depositions in the bands of the Government.  and if they found any Reluctancy, or Indisposition to the Assassination, they turned them over to the Invasion Plot, and desired them to be ready to meet their old Master at his Landing; but to those whom Wickedness had made fit for any Impression, they imparted their Villainy in words at length, and so secured the whole Party to be either Rebels, or Murderers.  
Those that came from France knew not what Affair they were sent upon, till they arrived at London; but were kept in a blind Obedience to Sr. George Barclay's Order, as appears by the Depositions of Mr. George Harris, 
* Taken April, 15, 1696.  who saith, he was an Ensign of Foot under the late King James in Scotland, and has since served his second Troop of Guards in France, that about the 14 of January 1695, King James sent for this Deponent and Michael Hare his Comrade, and in the Queen's Bedchamber told him, that he had an Opportunity of doing something for him, as a Reward of his faithful Service; that he would send him into England, where he should be subsisted, and that he should follow Sr. George Barclay's Orders, and in so doing he would take Care of him. That he had ordered them Money for their Journey, which they should receive from Mr. Caryl, the late Queen's Secretary, and farther told this Informant, that he should find Sr. George Barclay every Monday and Thursday, between six and seven at night, in Covent-Garden Square, whom they should know by a white Handkerchief, hanging out of his Coat Pocket, and thereupon the late King James pulling a List out of his Pocket told this Deponent, that when he was in England he must go by the Name of Jenkins, and his Comrade Hare by the Name of Guiney, and further this Deponent saith, that Coll. Parker was present, heard all that the late King said, and went with this Informant and his Comrade to Mr. Caryl, who told them, that the King had ordered each of them Ten Lovis d' Or's which would be sufficient to carry them into England, and if they should be Wind-bound, he had writ to the Precedent Toss at Calais to furnish them with what they should have occasion for; the rest of the Assassins' were all Men of desperate Fortunes, hangers-on at the Court at St. Germains, or Soldiers taken out of several Regiments, whose Characters rendered them fit for such an inhuman Enterprise.  
All the Assassins' being come to London, that were expected from France, and their Number completed by the Addition of others that were in England, the execrable Design was communicated to all the Desperados: Some of which were startled and amazed with horror at the first Relation of it; but all the Scruples that Conscience could raise were soon extinguished by the Authority of the late King James 's Commission, and their Phanciful Prospects of Wealth and Honour, that would attend the Action: And therefore all consented to forfeit their Honours, and hazard their Lives in it.  
Now several ways are proposed by the Conspirators to execute their long designed Attempt against his Majesty's Person. Some proposed the seizing his Majesty and carrying him alive into France, and to that purpose a faint was made, that a Castle on the Seaside was secured to detain the King in, till a Ship was ready to transport him thither; but the wiser and more wicked among them, that understood what was meant by seizing the King's Person, laughed at this as a mere Chimaera.  
Others proposed, to kill his Majesty at Kensington, by attaching his Guards and forcing his Palace in the dead of the night; but this upon debating was also thought wholly impracticable.  
Some were for Murdering the King as he came on Sunday to St. James 's Chappel, and for this purpose forty Men well armed were to Assault his Majesty's Guards, which commonly do not exceed above twenty five, while six Men on Foot should shut Hide Park-gate, and the rest Assassinate his Majesty, 
* See Mr. Fisher's Deposition Feb. 25 1695.  'twas agreed also to kill the Coach Horses as they were entering into the Park, that the Passage being stopped, the Guards might not be able to come up, till they had done their Work.  
Another Proposal was, to Murder the King as he returned from Hunting, in a narrow Lane by a Wood-side, leading to the Thames on the other side of the Water, about a hundred and fifty paces long, in which there is a Gate that when 'tis shut, hinders Coaches, or Horses, from passing that way: One of the Assassins' was sent to view this Ground, and another to view the Lane aforementioned; but Sr. George Barclay who was to command this infamous Party did not approve that Lane, and the Difficulties that arose in the Debate, caused that Project to be rejected, at last they fix upon a Place betwixt Brentford and Turnham-Green. In a bottom where the Ground is moorish there is a Bridge where divers Roads meet, and cross one another; on the North side there is a Road that goes round Brentford, and on the South a Lane that leads to the River, so that one may come thither by four several Ways. After you past the Bridge, the Road grows narrow, having on one side a foot Path, and on the other a tall and thick Hedge; and this Place was pitched upon for the Execution of their barbarous Design: And truly, if Heaven had not discovered their Treasons (all Circumstances considered) a more unlucky Place and Time could not have been found out. For,  
His Majesty very often returned late from Hunting, and usually crossed the Water at Queens-Ferry by Brentford, with no greater Attendance than five or six of his Guards. 'Twas also his Majesty's Custom to enter the Ferry-Boat without coming out of his Coach, and as soon as he landed on this side the Water, the Coach drove on, without expecting the rest of the Guards, who could not cross the Thames, till the Boat returned to Surry-side to bring them over; and so the King must inevitably have fallen into the Hands of his Murderers, before the rest of his Guards could have come up to his Assistance.  
Neither was the Time and Place more cunningly and devilishly contrived, than their Men were disposed of; for having secured several Places at Brentford, Turnham-Green and in scattered Houses thereabouts, to set up their Horses till the King should return from Hunting, One of the Conspirators was ordered to wait at Queens-Ferry till the King's Guards appeared in sight on Surry-side of the Water, and then to give speedy Notice to the rest, to be ready at their respective Ports, while the King was crossing the Thames. For this wicked end, they were divided into three Parties, which were to make their Approaches by three several ways, one of which was to come from Turnham-Green, another from the Lane that leads to the Thames, and the third from the Road that goes round Brentford. One of these Parties were to attack the Guards in the Front, and the other in the Rear, whilst ten or twelve Men of the bloodiest Sort were to assassinate his Majesty in his Coach: And put a Period to that Sacred Life, whose Safety and well Being is a Terror to the Common Enemy of Europe, as well as the particular Joy, Delight and Safety of England.  
When their execrable Design was accomplished, the Conspirators resolved to keep in a Body till they came beyond Hammersmith, and there to separate, and by several Roads hasten to London, and from thence to the Seaside, where the sudden Landing of the French might secure them from the Rage of the Multitude, and the Hand of Justice. Thus was the Assassination to make way for a French Invasion, and the Invasion to shelter the Murderers of our King and Country.  
Horses were now the only necessaries wanting, and Sir George Barclay 
* Vid. Captain Porter's Depositions in the Appendix.  complaining, that the eight hundred Pound he brought over was already so far exhausted, that he could not out of the Remainder provide so great a Number as forty, they all agreed he should find but half, and the other twenty should be supplied by Sir W. Perkins, Mr. Porter and Mr. Charnock.  
All Things being thus agreed on, and the day appointed for the Execution of this inhuman Conspiracy, the Duke of Berwick, who came into England to countenance the Action, and secure a Party among the great Ones to assist at the Invasion, having been three Weeks in England, left London on Friday the 7th of February 1695, and having a speedy Passage, was posting towards Paris; but meeting his supposed Father the late King James upon the Read, travelling towards Calais, he acquaints him that all things were so well settled in England for his Restoration, that he would have little else to do than to take Possession of that Kingdom; there being an utter Impossibility, that Projects so well concerted, should miscarry.  
With this Account the late King James sends the Duke of Berwick to the—, who not a little pleased, that a Design of his own Laying should succeed so luckily, communicated it to the Folks about him, and after some time spent in diverting themselves with the Account of the Duke of Berwick's going into England, and escaping from thence, the— sent the Duke back to accompany the late King James into England.  
The 15th day of February, 1695. was the Day appointed to Murder the King, if kind Heaven had not prevented it. And now the Leaders having quartered the Assassins in several Parts of the Town to prevent Suspicion, they all lay close and still, expecting Notice from their orderly Men of the Kings being gone to Richmond; but so it pleased God, that his Majesty did not go abroad that day.  
This Disappointment and Fears of a Discovery made Plowden, Kendrick and Sherborn decline the Action, and withdraw themselves, but Sr. George Barclay, Sr. William Perkins, Capt. Porter and Mr. Goodman concluding the Design was not discovered, because they were not taken up by the Government, had another Meeting February 21st, and there resolved to execute their bloody Project on Saturday 22d of February 1695.  
The Forenoon of that Day was spent in a tedious Expectation of News, that the King was gone abroad; but instead of that Account, Keys (one of the orderly Men, which they lodged at Kensington, to give them Notice when the King went out) tells them, that the Guards were all come back in a Foam, and that there was a Muttering among the People, that a damnable Plot was discovered, and this unexpected News dispersed all the Conspirators, and drove them to shift for themselves by a speedy Flight.  
Nor were their Apprehensions of a Discovery groundless; for the Plot and the Progress that was made in it from time to time, had been discovered by Richard Fisher to the Right Honourable the Earl of Portland a considerable Time before any other Person discovered it, and, as Things ripened for Action, his Lordship was acquainted with the Particulars. On the 10th of February, he acquainted that Noble Lord, how far it was advanced, and promised to wait upon his Lordship with a fuller Account in a few days, accordingly he did on February the 13th 1695. And then gave his Lordship a full Account of the Design itself, and the Time, Place and Manner of its Execution; but refusing to give to his Lordship the Names of the Conspirators, made his Discovery suspected, till the Addition of other Witnesses gave an unquestionable Authority to the Truth of it.  
Mr. Pendergrass, who was wholly ignorant of this barbarous Design, till he was sent for to London; and there acquainted with it; being struck with Horror and Astonishment at the first Proposal of it, even than took up a Resolution to preserve his Majesty's Life, and discover the Conspiracy. Accordingly on February 14th 1695, he waited on the Earl of Portland at his Lordship's Lodgings at Whitehall, and being admitted to Privacy with his Lordship, though wholly a Stranger, without farther Address, accosts his Lordship with this surprising Request, Pray, My Lord, persuade the King to stay at home to morrow, for if he goes abroad to hunt he will be murdered. To this he subjoined a Relation of the whole Plot, as it had been communicated to him by the confederated Assassins: Which he said, he would have told the King himself, but that he durst not go to Kensington for fear of the two orderly Men, which were kept as Spies there, to give Intelligence of what occurred in that Court. He was introduced that Night to the King, tho' very late, and there in his whole Deportment showed himself to be a Man of Honour.  
Neither was Mr. De la Rue short of Mr. Pendergrass in making a Discovery of the intended Assassination; though his Friend Brigadier Lewson, who he designed should acquaint the King with it, being then out of Town makes his Information appear somewhat latter than the former. For as he is a Man of too much Honour to be engaged in a Murder, so his Concern to discover it was from the Beginning, though he did not declare it, till his Discovery might be serviceable to his Majesty, and then as soon as he had an Opportunity to impart the Secret, he did it; and Brigadier Lewson much about the same time acquainted the King, that Mr. De la Rue had informed him of a Design carrying on to assassinate his Majesty, and had given him a particular Account, by what Methods it was designed to be accomplished, and proposed a way, if the King thought fit, how all the Conspirators might be taken in Arms, when they thought to attempt it. But that which seems strange in all these Discoverers, though they punctually agreed in the Act and in the Circumstances, yet they all peremptorily refused to Name the Conspirators, which might have been of fatal Consequence, if the Earl of Portland had not found out the happy Expedient to prevent it, by persuading his Majesty to give himself the Trouble of examining Mr. Pendergrass and Mr. De la Rue himself in his Closet. His Majesty overcome by the Reasons alleged by that Noble Peer, condescended to his Request, and examined them 
* Feb. 21. 1695.  both separately.  
At Mr. Pendergrass' Examination was present the Earl of Portland and the Lord Cutts; and Mr. De la rues Examination was heard by the same Noble Earl and Brigadier Lewson. After the Examination his Majesty showed himself extremely well satisfied in the Truth of their Discoveries, and in a very Obliging Manner expressed his Resentments of their Generosity in the great Care and Zeal they showed for the Preservation of his Life and the Safety of the Kingdom; and at last gave them such unanswerable Reasons, why as Men of Honour and Lovers of their Country, they should complete their Duty and Kindness in discovering the Names of the Conspirators, as quite subdued their former Obstinacies, and prevailed upon them to make a full and true discovery of the Names of the Assassins' under the Promise of not being made use of as Evidences; but Mr. Pendergrass hearing that Mr. Porter, who engaged him in it, had discovered and accused him; he thought himself discharged from any Obligation of Honour in concealing it, and therefore afterward as an Evidence for the King freely told all he knew at Charnocks Trial, p. 40.  
The King having now a perfect Knowledge of the Conspiracy and the Names of the Conspirators, his Majesty issues out his Royal Proclamation, requiring all his loving Subjects to apprehend the Conspirators, promising one thousand pound Reward for every Offender that should be taken and brought to Justice.  
And here give me Leave to take Notice of the extreme Fury, Madness and Bigotry of Mr. Charnock, who meeting Mr. Bertram accidentally at Lincolns-In back Gate, told him, 
* See Mr. Bertrams Deposition in the Secretaries Office.  that Warrants were out against them (as he heard) and they had as good, if he would come to his Lodging, go out to Kensington, and do the Work at once, and take off the Spark, and then they should all be at quiet, and have the 
* Meaning the late Kings James.  King peaceably here, what a strange Infatuation this Ingenious Man was under is a Wonder to all that knew him.  
Immediately after the Proclamation was out Mr. George Harris, one of the Persons that was sent out of France to obey the Orders of Sir George Barclay, and was actually engaged in the Assassination, resigned himself to the Right Honourable Sr. W. Trumball One of his Majesty's Principal Secetaries of State, and generously convinced him of the Reality of the Assassination and Invasion-Plots, tho' he was not able to declare the particular Circumstances that attended them.  
Every day still producing the King fresh Evidences of the Conspiracy, his Majesty was pleased to communicate it to both Houses of Parliament, in the following Speech.  
My Lords and Gentlemen,  
I Am come hither this day upon an extraordinary Occasion, which might have proved fatal, if it had not been disappointed by the singular Mercy and Goodness of God; and may now, by the Continuance of the same Providence and our own prudent Endeavours be so improved, as to become a sufficient Warning to us to provide for our Security against the pernicious Practices and Attempts of our Enemies.  
I have received several concurring Informations of a Design to Assassinate me, and that our Enemies at the same time are very forward in their Preparations for a sudden Invasion of this Kingdom. And have therefore thought it necessary to lose no time in acquainting my Parliaments with these Things, in which the Safety of the Kingdom and the Public Welfare are so nearly concerned, that I assure myself, nothing will be omitted on your Part which may be thought proper for our present or future Security.  
I have not been wanting to give the necessary Orders for the Fleet, and I hope we have such a Strength of Ships, and in such a Readiness, as will be sufficient to disappoint the Intentions of our Enemies.  
I have also dispatched Orders for bringing home such a Number of our Troops, as may secure us from any Attempt.  
Some of the Conspirators against my Person are already in Custody, and Care is taken to apprehend so many of the rest as are discovered: And such other Orders are given as the present Exigency of Affairs do absolutely require at this Time for the public Safety.  
My Lords and Gentlemen,  
HAving now acquainted you with the Danger which hath attended Us, I cannot doubt of your Readiness and Zeal, to do every thing which you shall judge proper for our common Safety: And I persuade myself, we must be all sensible, how necessary it is in our present Circumstances, That all possible Dispatch should be given to the Business before you.  
His Majesty's most gracious Speech was seconded by Sir William Trumball, who opened the Matter more at large, in an excellent and seasonable Speech before the Honourable House of Commons. For his Honour knowing, that the disaffected Party were endeavouring to ridicule the Plot, and render the whole Discovery of it to be merely fictitious, he took the Advantage of acquainting that Honourable Assembly with the Credibility of the Witnesses, the Concurrence of their Testimonies and the Improbability of their conspiring together to abuse the Credulity of the Nation, with what was either False, or Feigned.  
The Lords and Commons under a deep Sense of his Majesty's Danger and Deliverance, 
Feb. 24. 1695.  were pleased to express their Duty and Affection, in the following Address to his Majesty, which for the greater Solemnity, was presented by both Houses in a Body, in these Words.  
WE Your Majesty's most Loyal and Dutiful Subjects, the Lords Spiritual and Temporal and Commons in this present Parliament Assembled, having taken into our serious Consideration what Your Majesty has been pleased to communicate to us this day, Think it our Duty, in the first Place, to give Your Majesty most humble Thanks for having acquainted your Parliaments with the great Danger your Sacred Person hath been so nearly exposed to, and the Design of an Invasion from our Enemies abroad; we hearty congratulate Your Majesty's Happy Preservation, and thankfully acknowledge the Signal Providence of God in it, and at the same time declare our Detestation and Abhorrence of so Vilainious and Barbarous a Design. And since the Safety and Welfare of Your Majesty's Dominions do so entirely depend upon Your Life, We most humbly Beseech Your Majesty to take more than Ordinary Care of Your Royal Person. And we take this Occasion to assure Your Majesty of our utmost Assistance to Defend Your Person, and Support Your Government, against the late King James and all other Your Enemies both at Home and Abroad, hereby declaring to all the World, That in case Your Majesty shall come to any Violent Death (which God forbidden) we will Revenge the same upon all your Enemies and their Adherents; and as an Instance of our Zeal for Your Majesty's Service, we will give all possible dispatch to the public Business. And we make it our Desire to Your Majesty to seize and secure all Persons, Horses and Arms, that Your Majesty may think fit to apprehend upon this Occasion.  
To which His Majesty, in a very obliging Manner, returned this most Gracious Answer.  
My Lords and Gentlemen,  
I Thank you hearty for this kind Address: On my Part you may be assured that I will do all that is within my Power for the Preservation of this Kingdom, to which I have so many Obligations; I will readily venture my Life for Preserving it, and Recommend myself to the Continuance of your Loyalty and good Affections.  
February 25th 1695, Both Houses enter into an Association to defend his Majesty's Life, and to revenge his Death: That of the House of Commons was presented to his Majesty April the 3d 1696. In these Words.  
WHereas there has been a horrid and detestable Conspiracy, formed and carried on by Papists and other wicked and Traitorous Persons, for assassinating his Majesty's Royal Person, in order to encourage an Invasion from France to subvert our Religion, Laws and Liberty: We whose Names are hereunto subscribed, do hearty, sincerely and solemnly Profess, Testify and Declare, That his Present Majesty King William is Rightful and Lawful King of these Realms, And we do mutually Promise and Engage to stand by and assist each other to the utmost of our Power, in the Support and Defence of His Majesty's most Sacred Person and Government against the late King James and all his Adherents. And in case His Majesty come to any Violent or Untimely Death (which God forbidden) We do hereby further freely and unanimously oblige ourselves to Unite, Associate and Stand by each other, in revenging the same upon his Enemies and their Adherents; and in supporting and defending the Succession of the Crown according to an Act made in the first Year of the Reign of King William and Queen Mary, Entitled an Act declaring the Rights and Liberties of the Subject, and Settling the Succession of the Crown.  
His Majesty received it very Graciously, and expressed his Sense of their Extraordinary Zeal and Fidelity in the Words following;  
Gentlemen,  
I Take this as a most convincing and most acceptable Evidence of your Affection: And as you have freely Associated yourselves for our common Safety, I do hearty enter into the same Association; and will be always ready with you, and the rest of my Good Subjects, to venture my Life against all who shall endeavour to subvert the Religion, Laws and Liberties of England.  
The House of Lords also presented their Association not long after, which being almost the same, for Brevity sake is here omitted: The House of Commons than proceeded to make Laws for the Security of His Majesty's Person and Government, containing these Heads. First,  
That such as shall refuse to take the Oaths of Fidelity to His Majesty, shall be subject to the Forfeitures and Penalties of Popish Recusants Convict. Secondly,  
To inflict Penalties on all that by Writing, or otherwise Declare, that King William is not Lawful and Rightful King of these Realms. Thirdly,  
To ratify and confirm the Association. Fourthly,  
That no Person shall be capable of any Office of Profit or Trust, Civil or Military, that shall not sign the Association. Fifthly,  
That whenever it shall please God to afflict these Nations by the Death of his Present Majesty, that the Parliament then in being shall not be dissolved thereby; but shall continue till the next Heir to the Crown in Succession dissolve them.  
Whilst the Parliament were thus providing Good Laws for the Preservation of His Majesty, and the Peace and Safety of the Kingdom, three of the Assassins', viz. Robert Charnock, Edward King and Thomas Keys were on the 11th of March 1695 tried, and upon full Evidence being all found guilty of high Treason, received Sentence of Death accordingly at the Sessions-House in the Old-Baily: And upon March the 18th 1695, were all executed at Tyburn. Before their Execution the Malefactors severally delivered each his Paper to the Sheriffs of London and Middlesex, in which Papers they all confessed themselves Guilty of the Crimes they were accused of, and then about to suffer for; Mr. Charnock in these Words, as concerning an Invasion intended by King James upon England, and that there was certain Intelligence of it from abroad, I presume every Body was satisfied; and to the facilitating of which, I own that myself and some others did agree upon the Undertaking, to attack the Prince of Orange and his Guards, for which I am now to suffer. Mr. King in these Words, I am now within a few Moment's of Eternity, brought to this Place by the just Hand of God, in Punishment of all my Crimes, but particularly of that, of which I have been lately Arraigned, and for which I stand here Condemned. Mr. Keys in these Words, God is just in all his Judgements, and I accept of this Death as the Punishment of my Iniquities.  
Sir John Friend also owned himself guilty of the Treason he died for in endeavouring to justify it in these Words. To assist King James in the Recovery of his Right, is Justifiable and our Duty. Sir William Perkins confessed at his Execution, that he was privy to the Design upon the Prince, meaning King William, that he was entirely in the Interest of King James, and looked upon it as his Duty to assist him in the Recovery of his Throne. Now that these two, contrary to the Example of Charnock, justified their Treasons must be attributed to the blind Zeal and Rebellious Principles of those Clergy Men, who administered Absolution without any Precedent Confession in direct Opposition to the Laws of that Church whereof they would be thought Members; but those Proceed being Sentenced by fourteen 
* See the Declaration of the Sense of the Arch-Bishops, Bishops, etc.  Reverend Bishops, all that were then in London, and consented to by the rest that were absent, I refer the Reader to their Lordship's printed Paper for further Satisfaction and shall only add, 'tis the Leaders of these People that cause them to err.  
Sir John Fenwick, who was attainted by Parliament, and beheaded on Tower-Hill, January 28, 1696, was the last that suffered for these treasonable Practices against the King and Government. At the place of Execution he delivered a Paper to the Sheriff, which can be called his, for no other reason but because he owned it to be so; for the Paper is so closely couched to avoid the danger of unwary Digressions, so cautiously writ to prevent Reflections and so artificially adapted to humour the Party, and not irritate the Government, that if compared with what was truly his own, no Man can think Sr. John was the Author of it, who, without Compliment, had no such extraordinary Talon in speaking or writing; Let us take a transient View of it.  
If Sir John Fenwick was of the Communion of the Church of England, this Paper does not truly represent him; for it is a Scandal to the Purity of her Doctrine, and wholly inconsistent with the Simplicity, Fidelity and Candour, which that Church requires in her dying Members. The Author of Sir John's dying Paper would fain excuse him from the guilt of Treason, because he was for the lineal Descent; but if by lineal Descent he means the next in Blood, he is as great a Stranger to our Histories, as to our Laws; for the lineal Descent was broken as early as Edward the Confessor both in his taking and leaving the Crown at his Death, besides many other Precedents of its Interruption since, 
* 
By Will. 2d. By Hen. 1st By K. Stephen.  
By King John and King Ed. 2d and Rich. 2d both deposed by Parliament, etc.   and in this I find he had a bad Tutor for our Laws, and not our Religion, does determine our Loyalty, and in the Matter of Succession are the indubitable Guides of English-Men. He thinks the Deposing King James was Illegal, but that's a grand Mistake; for what can be more criminal and dangerous to the Being of any Polity, than to restrain and disable the Legislative Authority from providing a Remedy against the greatest Mischief that can happen to a Community: Since no Government can support itself without an unlimited Power to correct Abuses, and provide for the Happiness of the People, nor no civil Establishment in the World be of any Duration in Safety, unless it be controulable and alterable to the Public Good.  
All human Constitutions are, or at leastwise aught to be made, Cum sensu humanae Imbecilitatis, under reasonable Exceptions of unforeseen Accidents and Emergencies, that may happen to human Affairs: And so they ought to be intended, and so interpreted; otherwise we render ourselves the most miserable People upon the Face of the Earth, for want of a Power to preserve ourselves, and depose a Prince unable in Nature to support the Constitution, and not only imbued with pernicious Principles, but actually confederated and engaged to destroy it, which is a sufficient Confutation of Sir John Fenwick's ill grounded Loyalty, and renders what he thought a commendable Endeavour to be a treasonable Conspiracy.  
If he means by his True and Lineal Course of Descent, that the pretended Prince of Wales ought to succeed, I must answer, that the way they took to prove him so, has made it very doubtful and suspicious, and therefore we ought not to part with the Act of Settlement which has preserved the Right in the Blood, tho' for good Reasons, they have laid aside the forfeiting Person and the Suspicious Pretender.  
He proceeds. As for what I am now to die for, I call God to Witness, I went not to that Meeting in Leaden-Hall-street with any Intention as to invite King James by Force to invade this Nation.  
All this depends upon the Word Intention, which as he uses it is mere Evasion, or Equivocation; for the Actions shows the Intention, Men have no other way of judging; for did ever Man grasp at the Power to do Mischief without the Purpose? His Discourse about King James 's Restoration, promising to meet him with two thousand Horse at his Landing, and giving his Consent that Mr. Charnock should give the late King James that Assurance in all their Names, that was the Treason proved upon him, 
* See Captain Porter's Depositions at Sr. W. Perkin's Trial.  and what he died for, and 'twould be a Piece of inexcusable Folly, to say, when a Man is setting his house on fire he had no Intention to burn it, or whilst a Man was using the Means, to say he never intended the End.  
He was not himself provided (he says) with either Horse, or Arms, or engaged for any Number of Men.  
What Necessity was there he should be so provided of Horses, when 'twas his own Project, 
* See Goodman's Depositions taken Ap. 24, 1696.  that they should take Horses wherever they could find them. And some of the Party were so fond of this Project, that they took a List of the Number of Horses, that were kept in, and about, London and Westminster.  
Nor did I (says he) give particular Consent for any such Invasion, as was most falsely sworn against me.  
Sir John Fenwick has confessed a general Consent, and he was not charged with a particular Consent: For the Words sworn against him were, And they all risen up, and said to Charnock, Yes you may: 
* See Captain Porter's Depositions in Charnock's Trial.  And therefore it looks with an ill Face upon the Writer of the Paper to stick in that Word Particular, to give himself the Advantage of slandering the Evidence with Perjury (upon the nice Distinction of a particular and general Consent) who has had the Confirmation of so many dying Acknowledgements and Confessions to the Truth of what he has deposed.  
That he knew nothing of King James' coming to Calais, I will not undertake to disprove, since I know the English were trusted with no more of that Secret, than F— thought fit to communicate. The Assassination, which F— had so often fruitlessly projected, and carried a Face of Villainy and Danger with it, was allotted to them, and if they perish in it, let them perish; and this Tragical Part 
* See the Paper annexed to the Lady Mary Fenwick's Petition.  Sr. John was acquainted with, but did not discover it, and, I wonder, he should be ignorant of the Invasion that was immediately to succeed it.  
The rest of the dying Paper, so far as it concerned those he accused, being only Hear-say, and so obscure, that it rather amuses than instructs the Reader, I shall pass it over. As for what relates to his own Gild, 'tis so fully and clearly proved and confessed under his own Hand, in his Letter (wrote with a black lead Pencil, when he was taken in Kent, directed to Mrs. Farrar (Sr. John Fenwick's Lady's Woman) at the Lady Carlisle's, delivered to Mr. Webber, the Companion of his Flight, and afterwards intercepted by the Mayor of Rumney, and so proved before the House of Lords and Commons.) That I shall need only produce that Letter, which proclaims his Gild louder than I can, and leave the Reader to judge of the whole, as he finds Cause in reading it. It gins, 
* See the Journal of the House of Lords.   
WHAT I feared is at last happened, had I gone alone, I had done it; but the other was betrayed from London. It is God's Will, so we must submit, I know nothing can save my Life, but my Lord Carlisle's going over to him, backed by the rest of the Family of the Howards, so beg it; and offering I will live abroad all his Times, where I cannot hurt him, and that I will never draw my Sword against him. I must leave to you what else to say, all Friends must be made, my Lord Devonshire may perhaps be made by my Lady, my Lord Godolphin, my Lord Pembroke, by my Lady Montgomery, Mr. Nelson by the Bishop of Canterbury, My Lord Arran might engage his Brother Silkerke to use his Interest with Keppell. I believe, if my Lord Carlisle would go, 'twere best before my Trial, or else they may cut me short before my time; if he can prevail with him for a Pardon, he will procure it as well before my Trial as after, or at least he may prevail for a Reprieve till some can come over to him. My Lord also will have an Opportunity to engage Benting, and get my Lord Essex to join with him, I can't think what else to say; but the great Care must be the Jury, if two or three could be got, that would starve the next; that or nothing can save me. Money I know would do it, but alas, that's not to be had, nor shall I get enough for Counsel, I beg of you not to think of being shut up with me, I know 'twill kill you, and besides I have no such Friend as you to take Care of my Business, tho' 'twould be the Comfort of my Life, that little time it lasts, to have you with me; and the only Comfort I have now left is, that my Death will make you easy. My dearest Life grieve not for me, but resign me to God Almighty's Will. You will hear as soon as they bring me to Town, where they put me, and then I would have a Servant or some Body with me and a Nightgown. I am in a sad Condition with Riding; that day I parted with you I rid above 100 Miles; but be not concerned, my Health is well enough, I am interrupted, and so can say no more now, engage Sir John Lowther the New Lord, who hath more Interest than any Body. Let my Lord Scarsdale engage Overkirk for me, speak to my Lady Arlington, if my Trial would be put off till the King comes back, there would be more Opportunity to solicit him.  
This, Letter was brought to the Lords Justices, and at his first Examination before them, in which he denied every Thing he was charged with; their Excellencies told him, he was not of that Mind when he wrote that Letter, which was then showed him, to which Sir John Ferwick made no Reply, but laid it down, and was utterly silensed by such a violent Presumption, or rather ingenious Confession of his Gild, attested under his own Hand.  
FINIS.   

THE APPENDIX.  
Affidavits of the Ships-Crew, about Lunt's Coming from Ireland.  

The Informations of John Preston of Cockeram Mariner, who upon Oath saith;  
THAT about a year ago John Cawson Part-owner of the Pink or Vessel, called the Lion of Lancaster, hired this Informant as a Mariner to serve in the said Vessel; the Burden whereof is twixt 40 and 50 Tun, and he hath ever since served in that Employment, and the said Vessel in that time hath performed four Voyages to Dublin in Ireland, one of which Voyages was about Christmas last, and since Christmas last, to wit, about a Mouth ago she loosed out of Loin or Lune River for the Isle of Man, having then on Board only three Passengers, viz Mr. Edmund Thrillfall, and two Strangers, who this Informant never saw before or since, which said Thrillfall, when he was on Board shown Charles Cawson, Master 〈◊〉 the said Vessel, the Earl of Derby's Pass for the said Voyage. And this Informant and others of the said Mariners made for the said Island, but before they could compass it, the said Owner proposed to this Informant, and the rest of the Mariners so make for Ireland, which they did accordingly, and landed in Ireland, and there continued about three Weeks, during all which time the said Master continued a Shore, and returned not Aboard till she was ready ●o sail. And this Informant further saith, That the said Vessel went out of Loin in the night-time-without any Cocket or Certificate from the Custom-Office, and without Fraught, or any on Board, save the three Passengers aforesaid, and the said Master and five Mariners, and a Boy. And at her Return had nothing Aboard save a Tun and a half of Iron-pots, and half a Tun of Iron Barrs, and nine Barrels of Beef, and two Passengers, viz. the said Mr. Thrillfall, and a young short Man wearing his own hair; which said Passengers had two Cases of Pistols, and one Sword, and the said Thrillfall had a Hair Portmantle Trunk, which he took on Shoar with him. And he further saith, That on Thursday morning last, the said Vessel came to Anchor in Loin aforesaid, a little before Sun-rise, and by the Cockboat belonging to the said Vessel sent the said Thrillfall and the other Passenger ashore at the Crook, being on the South side of the said River, before the Custom-house Boat came up to them. And the said Passengers, or the one of them left behind them in the said Vessel, two Leather Baggs with Writings, which the Custom-Officers, when they came on Board, took into their Possession. And further saith not,  
John Preston. Jurat apud Preston in Com L●ne ' xvii●. Junii 1689. Corum me, C. Brandon.   

The Information of Henry Knowles, one of the Seamer in the Pink or Vessel called the Lion of Lancaster: Who upon Oath saith;  
THAT he is a Pepist, and hath been a Mariner or Seaman in the said Vessel, in several Voyages betwixt England and Ireland, and more particularly in two Voyages since Christmas last. And he further saith, that this day five Weeks last passed about two a Clock in the Morning, the said Vessel weighed Anchor from the River Lune, being designed, (as this Examinant and the other Mariners on Board understood for the Isle of Man) without any Fraught or Persons on Board her, saving Mr. Thrillfall and two other Passengers, who this Examinant knows not, besides Charles Cawson the Master, five Mariners, whereof this Examinant was one, and a Boy. But in the Voyage, and before, they did reach to the said Isle, Mr. Thrillfall proposed, that they should go straight for Dublin in the Kingdom of Ireland, where the said Mr. Thrillfall pretended he had business; to this the Master readily consented, saying, he also had business at Dublin to get in some Debts; which Voyage they performed accordingly, and Landed at Dublin the Saturday following, and there continued at Anchor some days above three Weeks, during which stay this Examinant several times saw the said Mr. Thrillfall in Dublin: And in order for their Return to England, there was brought on Board the said Vessel at Dublin, only one Tun and a half of Iron pots, half a Tun of Iron Bar, and nine Barrels of Beef; and upon Monday was seven night the said Vessel set sail from Dublin for England, no Persons being in her besides the said Ships-Company, the said Mr. Thrillfall, and one other Person (to this Examinant unknown) who brought with them into the Vessel only a Trunk Portmantle covered with Hair, that this Examinant knows of. And this Deponent saith, that the said other Person was low of stature, wearing his own Hair, and went under the Name of Mr. Lunt, who pretended to come to an Uncle of his in England. And this Examinant further saith, That the said Vessel about two or three a Clock last Thursday Morning came to an Anchor in the River Lune in that County. And the Master, immediately after their coming to Anchor, Ordered the Cockboat to be let down, and appointed this Examinant and Richard Whiteside, another, of the said Seamen, to set the said Mr. Thrillfall and Mr. Lunt on shore upon Cockeram side, which accordingly they did, and carried with them (which they delivered to the said Thrillfall) the said Trunk; and as this Examinant, and the said Whiteside were rowing the Boat back towards the Vessel, the said Lunt called back of them, that he had left his Bags on Board, but said, that he and the said Mr. Thrillfall would go to refresh themselves at Cookeram, and desired this Examinant to bring his said Bags thither to him. But before this Examinant was returned to the Vessel, a Boat with some Officers belonging to the Custom-house were come up to the Vessel, who searching the Vessel did after this Examinant's Return to her, find in the Hold of the said Vessel, two Leather-baggs, with several written and Printed Papers in them, as this Examinant afterwards saw, which this Examinant believes to be the said L●n●'s Bags. And this Deponent further saith, that he believes the said Vessel had no Cocket, when she went for Ireland. And hath heard, that the said Mr. Thrillfall gave ten Pounds for her that Voyage.  
Henry Knowles. Capt' & Jurat' apud Preston in Com' Lancast ' 18 Junii 1689, coram me, T. Patten.   

The Information of James Tomson; one of the Mariners belonging to the Pink or Vessel called the Lion of Lancaster: Who upon Oath saith,  
THAT he is a Protestant, but being Examined about several Voyages lately made by the said Vessel into Ireland, as to the last, saith, that it was begun about five Weeks since, and having heard the Information of Henry Knowles, this Examinant agrees with the same in the relation thereof.  
James Tomson. Capt' & Jurat' die & loco praed' coram me, T. Patten.   

The Information of John Barrow one of the Mariners belonging to the Vessel called the Lion of Lancaster. Who upon Oath saith;  
THAT he is an Apprentice to Mr. John Cawson, and by his Order went on Board the said Vessel, which about five Weeks ago sailed into Ireland, and he hearing the Information of Henry Knowles now taken and read over, this Examinant agrees with the said Knowles in the relation thereof, except that this Examinant heard not what the said Lunt came over for, nor the Discourses betwixt Mr. Thrillfall and Lunt, and the Seamen when they set them on shore at Cockeram.  
John Barrow. Capt' & Jurat' die & l●c● praed' coram me, John Patten.   

The Information of Richard Whiteside, one of the Mariners belonging to the Vessel called the Lion of Lancaster. Who upon Oath saith;  
THAT having heard the Information of Henry Knowles, another of the Mariners, read over, this Examinant agrees with him in every particular thereof, relating to the said Vessel's last Voyage into Ireland, except that this Examinant hath not heard what Mr. Thrillfall was to give for the Hire of the said Vessel.  
R. Whiteside. Capt' & Jurat' dis & loco sup' dict' coram me, T. Patten.   

The Examination of John Cawson of Narbock within Cockeram in the County of Lancaster, Merchant. Who saith,  
THAT he is half Owner of the Vessel, called the Lion of Lancaster, and the other half belongs to this Examinant's Son Charles Cawson, and to his Son in-Law Robert Curwen, to wit, to either of them one Quarter. And that having for several years last passed, about May or June been employed to carry the Earl of Derby's Cattle from the Isle of Man to England, he this Examinant did about two or three Months ago desire Mr. William Backhouse the Attorney, who designed shortly afterwards to go with Mr. Thomas Simpson to London to put the said Mr. Simpson in mind of knowing from the said Earl, when he designed the said Cattle should be fetched over, which Mr. Backhouse promised to do. And at Mr. Simpson's Return he informed this Deponent, that he this Examinant might send for the Cattle as formerly to Mr. Cockett my Lord's Servant in the said Isle. And thereupon this Examinant gave consent to his said Son Charles, that if he pleased he might fetch over the same in the Vessel aforesaid. And about five Weeks ago the said Vessel loosed Anchor, and went out of Lunt Water, designing only as this Examinant then believed, for the Isle of Man, upon the Account aforesaid. And this Examinant further saith, that since the return of the Vessel, this Examinant has been for about an hours time with his said Son to inquire about his Voyage, who informed him, that in the Voyage Mr. Edmund Thrillfall, who was then a Passenger on Board the Vessel, offered to him the said Charles Cawson ten Pounds to put him the said Mr. Thrillfall a shore in any part of Ireland, and that accordingly, he had set Mr. Thrillfall a shore at Dublin, and that after some stay there, he returned back for England, bringing the said Mr. Thrillfall and another Person (who his Son called Mr. Lunt) hither with him. And the said Charles informed this Examinant, that he was detained and could not be admitted to return from Dublin till he brought the said Lunt and Thrillfall with him. And this Examinant saith, that upon Ascension day last, the said Mr. Thrillfall came unto him at Garstang, and treated with him about a Passage into the Isle of Man, but an Embargo being then upon Vessels, this Examinant told the said Thrillfall, his said Vessel could not go. And upon the Monday before the Vessel went from Lancaster-water, the said Mr. Thrillfall came to this Examinant's House to treat with him again for a Passage to the Island, but this Examinant denied him one in the Vessel, having resolved to take no Passenger thither; and thereupon the said Thrillfall went away from this Deponant, and since then this Examinant never saw the said Mr. Thrillfall. And this Examinant demanding from his Son, why he called not at the Isle for my Lord's Cattle in his return from Dublin, his said Son told him the said Thrillfall and Lunt (who were too strong for him, being armed with Pistols) would not let him, and that withal they promised him other ten Pounds for their Passage from Ireland, but never yet paid it him.  
John Cawson. Capt' die & loco praed' coram me, T. Patten.   

Elizabeth Engley 's Affidavit.  
ELizabeth Langley maketh Oath, That she this Deponent knows Mr. John Lunt, and hath done for eight or nine years past, and that in or about the Month of December 1688, a little after the late King James went into France, the said Lunt came to this Deponent, and desired her to take a private Lodging for him, until such time as he could get a Passage out of England to follow the said King; which this Deponent did accordingly, and about a Fortnight after, he the said Lunt acquainted this Deponent, that he then had an opportunity to go over into France with the Lord George Howard; and this Deponent doth believe he went accordingly; for is a week or ten days after, she this Deponent did receive a Letter from him the said Lunt, bearing date from Calais, Jan. 14. 1688, which Letter this Deponent hath yet in her keeping; and about July following 1689, the said Lunt came in a Coach to this Deponent's Lodging in Castle-street by Leicester-fields, so disguised, that she did nor know him till he spoke, and desired this Deponent to come into the Coach to him, which she did, and then he drew up the Glasses, fearing lest any one might see him, and discover who he was; and as the said Lunt and this Deponent sat together in the said Coach, as it stood at the door of this Deponents Lodging, this Deponent laid her hand on a Green-Bag, which was in the Coach, and doth believe that it had Papers or Parchment-writings in it, but did not at that time ask the said Lunt, what they were; but as they were sitting together in the said Coach, he the said Lunt told this Deponent, that he had been in France, and that he went from thence into Ireland, and that he was sent thence by King James with Commissions and Deelarations to several Roman Catholic Gentlemen, and others in England; and did then further tell this Deponent, that at his Landing in Lancashire from Ireland, he had lost his Linen, and several other things, which if they were taken would cost him his life; and then desired this Deponent to bring him some Linen the next Morning, to the Cock and Dolphin-Inn in Grays-Inn Lane, and that she would inquire for him by the Name of Beunet; and the next Morning she this Deponent did go to him accordingly to to the said Inn; and as the said Lunt and this Deponent were there discoursing together, she asked, what those things were that she laid her hand upon in the said Bag the day before, when they sat together in the said Coach? and the said Lunt answered, that they were Commissions and Declarations which he had now disposed off to several Gentlemen, in and about the Town, according to his Directions from the said late King James, and the Lord Melfort; and he then shown this Deponent one Printed Declaration, which (as he said) was all that he had left; for that he had disposed of all the rest, and he read it to her, but this Deponent doth not remember the Contents, but did observe it to be in the name of James Rex, and about a Month or five Weeks after, she heard, that the said Lunt was a Prisoner in Newgate for High Treason, and a little before Christmas in the year 1689, he the said Lunt came to this Deponent and told her, that he was Bailed out of Prison, and was then going into Lancashire. And this Deponent doth believe, that he did then go into that Country, for within a Week or ten Days after, this Deponent did receive a Letter from the said Lunt, bearing date from one Mr. Tildesley's of the Lodge in Lancashire; and in February next after, the said Lunt returned to London, and sent for this Deponent to an Alehouse in Great Queen-street, known by the Name of the Hole in the Wall, who did presently go there and found the said Lunt in a Room with 10 or 12 Men (Strangers to this Deponent) and a little while after the said Men departed, and this Deponent did ask the said Lunt, who they were? who answered, they were Irish Men, and was to be Listed for King James' Service; and then he desired this Deponent to bring him to the said Hole in the Wall in two or three days some Linen, which she did accordingly, and when she was showing him the Linen, the Master of the House came and told the said Lunt, that there were three Men in the House, tha● waited to speak with him; and the said Lunt told him, that they might come to him i● they pleased, and then they did immediately come into the said Room to the said Lun●, and be asked them what they came about? and they told him about the Concern that he knew of; and that they were sent to him by one Mr. Whitfield a Cardmaker, and then asked them if they were willing to serve King James their Lawful King, as Soldiers? and they answered, they came to him for that Intent; and then the said Lunt gave every one of them a Shilling, and set down their Names in a Paper, where there were the Names of many more; two of their Names the said Deponent doth remember to be Thomas Burk, and Patrick Lacie; and he told them, that Care should be taken of them, and that they should have Money to carry them into Lancashire, and when they came there all possible Care would be taken of them, and that they should choose what Officers they pleased to serve under, Naming Col. Tildesley, the Lord Mollyneux, and several others whose Names this Deponent doth not remember, that as he said were to be their Officers; and he then Ordered them to be there at ten a Clock the next Morning, for that there was to be several of their Countrymen to meet him there at that time that were to go with them on the same Account into Lancashire. And in a day or two this Deponent went to the said Lunt to the Hole in the Wall aforesaid, and found in his Company the said Whitfield the Card maker, and several others, who this Deponent did not know; and when she went into the Room where they were, Whitfield whispered with the said Lunt, and Lunt spoke aloud, and said there was no danger of her. And two or three Days after this Deponent came to the said Lunt at the House aforesaid in the Evening, and there found the said Lunt, and another Man putting into Boxes, Sword-Hilts, Belts and Bagonets, with Flacks and Carteridges for Powder; and when they had put those things they intended into Boxes, they directed three of the Boxes to Mr. Tildesley of the Lodge, and to be left at Preston in Lancashire, and the others to several persons, that this Deponent doth not remember the Names of. And the said Lunt and the other Man with him, put three Boxes into a Coach that was waiting at the Door, and they put into a another Coach a Hair Trunk, and three other Boxes. And by the said Lunt's Directions, this Deponent went into one of the said Coaches to the Swan with two Necks in Lad-Lane, and delivered the three Boxes, that she had in the Coach to one Knowles a Carrier, as sent from herself. And the said Lunt, and the other Man aforesaid came in the other Coach at the same time, and delivered the said Trunk and three Boxes to the said Carrier, and in a Week after the said Lunt came to this Deponent, and told her he was going into Lancashire, and she doth believe he did go accordingly; for in a Month or five Weeks after she did receive a Letter from him, bearing date from Lancaster Castle. And this Deponent farther saith, that in the beginning of the year 1691, the said Lunt did, in the Presence of this Deponent, list about twelve or fourteen Men for the Service of the late King James, at the said Hole in the Wall, by the Assistance of one Mr. Rogers a Tailor, who at that time brought them to the said Lunt to be Listed, as aforesaid. And this Deponent further saith, that in or about the Month of November, in the year 1691, the said Lunt came to this Deponent's Lodging, and told her, That he ●as then going in all haste possible into France to his Old Master King James, and that he must return in a Month's time; And about a Month or five Weeks after, he the said Lunt returned to this Deponent's Lodging, and told her, He had been with the said King James, and seemed to be in great haste, for he said, He was to be in Lancashire in two or three days; and withal told her, that he did not doubt but that in the Spring following, she, this Deponent, might see him the said Lunt at the Head of a Troop of Horse of his own; and this Deponent doth believe, that he did then go into Lancashire; for she did receive a Letter from him the said Lunt, bearing date from Townley in Lancashire in a Week or ten days after.  
Elizabeth Langley. Jurat ' 19 die Febr. 1695/6 Coram Sam Cry.   

The Affidavit of Mrs. Agnes Barker.  
WHO upon her Oath saith, That in or about the latter end of the Month of February, or beginning of March, which was Anno Dom. 1689, Sir Rowland Stanley of Hoolton in the County of Chester, Baronet, bought two Horses, viz. the one a Stoned Horse, and the other a Gelding of this Informants Husband (at the value of forty Pounds) and this Informant also saith, that the said Sir Rowland, being a Roman Catholic, and the late King James then in Ireland, desired this Informants Husband to take the Horses back for a while to his own House; and after this Informant's Husband had kept the said Horses a Week, he sent this Informant to the said Sir Rowland at his own House, to acquaint him that in regard the said Horses were troublesome, desired they might be fercht away; upon which the said Sir Rowland desired this Informant to use her endeavour to her Husband, that be would keep the Horses a while longer (because he could not with Safety keep them himself) he then expressing, that he expected the King speedily over (which this Informant conceived to be King James) and doubted not but the next light Moon would bring him over: Whereunto this Informant replied, that she thought it not convenient to move her Husband to keep the said Horses any longer, for fear he should suspect any thing touching the matter; this Informant being then a Roman Catholic, and her said Husband a Protestant.  
And this Informant further saith, That William Gerrard, Esq Son and Heir apparent of Sir William Gerrard of Garswood in the County of Lancaster aforesaid, Baronet (another Roman Catholic) by one William Calland, formerly his Servant, did also buy two Horses of this Informan's Husband, and upon her demanding of the said Calland what buying two or three Horses ●ould signify? he answered, that they were only intoded for the Officers, but as for the men (meaning ●ommon Troopers) as she conceived, they were all ●n a readiness, and would as soon as King James was landed take Horses where they found them fo● his Service, or words to that effect. And t●is Informant sometime afterwards going to G●rswood aforesaid, he the said Mr. Gerrard cha●ged this Informant to be careful in avulging t●e matter; saying to her, You know Cousin since the King has been so kind to send to us, (who this Informant conceived to be King ●am●●) we cannot but put ourselves in a readiness ●● receive him; which was as this Informant believes about the same time, or a little before ●hat of Sir Rowland's Business above mentioned.  
And this Informant also saith, That much about the same time before mentioned, Roger Dickinson of Wrightington in the said County of Lancaster, Gentleman (also a Roman Catholic) this Informant's Kinsman came frequently to see this Informant at her Husband's House at Hulme near Warrington in the said County of Lancaster; and amongst other Discourse he the said Mr. Dickinson told this Informant, that he himself had a Lieutenant's Commission from the late King James; and then named what Commissions most of the Roman Catholic Gentlemen had in the said County of Lancaster; the Particulars whereof this Informant hath forgotten. And this Informant also saith, that the said Mr. Dickinson desired this Informant to prevail with her Husband to buyor procure for him thirty or forty Case of Pistols, to which she answered, she durst not for fear ●er said Husband should suspect any thing by it; however, she prevailed with him to buy two Case of Pistols for the said Mr. Dickinson, which he accepted and paid for; this Informa●t's Husband then suspecting nothing at all. And this Informant farther saith, That both 〈◊〉 the time the late King James was in Ireland, and also several times since, she hath heard in mo●● Companies which she then kept (being Papists) of the landing of King James, and buying Arms, and such like Discourse, the Particulars whereof this Informant doth not remember well.  
And this Informant farther saith, T●●● when the Roman Catholic Gentlemen came do●● to be Tried at Manchester, this Informant going to see Mr. William Dickinson, Eldest Brother 〈◊〉 the above named Roger Dickinson, she said to him, Cousin, I fear Taffe is come over to be 〈◊〉 your side; who answered, Yes, Cousin, I believe he is, but he cost us dear, or words to that effect. Upon which this Informant replied, She knew Taffe to be so Mercenary a Villain, that he would do nothing without Money, or such like words.  
Agnes Barker. Capt' & Jurat ' die 10. Febr. 1695. Coram me, Ralph Egerton.   

Mr. John Edwards' Affidavit.  
MR. John Edward's Vicar of Redland in Flintshire, maketh Oath, and saith, he knows George Wilson one of the Defendants in this case 
This was taken when Wilson was to have been tried upon the Indictment of Conspiracy. , and that he was an Innkeeper in the said Town of Redland, near or about the year 1685, to the beginning of the year 1689, to his Personal Knowledge, That the said Wilson was a person of good repute, most of the Neighbouring Gentlemen in the County using his House: That the said Wilson unhappily entertaining some Irishmen after they were Disbanded and broke up from Hounslow and Salisbury; contrary to the Persuasions of this Deponent, and several other Friends to his Knowledge, and he this Deponent hath been informed, that the said Wilson assisted one Bromfield a Quaker to get Passage for Ireland to go to King James; but this Deponent saith, he knew nothing thereof till Bromfield was gone. And this Deponent further saith, that the said Wilson was at that time reputed to be of the Romish Persuasion; and that this matter being known, some of the Earl of Meaths' Regiment came and seized several Persons in that Part of the Country for being Papists, upon which the said Wilson was forced to fly, and returned no more publicly to his House; but whether he retired himself this Deponent knows not; but this Deponent supposeth for want of time to dispose of his Concerns, left several Debts to pay, which if it had not been for those sad unhappy Circumstances, this Deponent doth believe might have been honestly paid. And this Deponent further saith, that he hath had considerable Business with the said Wilson in respect of Tithes, and several other matters, and had very honest dealing from him.  
Jo. Edward's. Capt' & Jurat ' 8. die Febr. 1695, Coram me, Tho. Rokeby.   

The Information of John Womball late a Carrier, Given the Twenty Eight of June, 1694.  
THIS Informant saith upon his Oath, that about the latter end of the year 1688, or beginning of the year 1689, he was employed by Mr. Townley of Townley in Lancashire, to carry several large Trunks and Boxes for him the said Townley from Barnet to his House in Lancashire; and that several times since, he this Informant hath carried several other the like Trunks and Boxes, etc. for him the said Mr. Townley into Lancashire as aforesaid; and this Informant saith, that by the frequent Service of that kind, he this Informant did perform for the said Mr. Townley, he became very conversant and well acquainted with the said Townley and his Family, insomuch that the said Mr. Townley himself has upon several Occasional Discourses with this Informant of business of that kind often told him this Informant, that the Trunks and Boxes he carried for him from Barnet, and also the others the like since were full of Arms, viz. Swords, Pistols and Carbines. And this Informant saith, He has been showed great Quantities of such sort of Arms in the House of the said Mr. Townley, both by himself and Servants, and has been told by them they were some of those that he this Informant brought from Barnet and London. This Informant farther saith, that one Nich. Rigby Servant to the said Mr. Townley hath been several times at London to buy Arms, by the direction of his said Master, and others, and sent them down by this Informant in several Boxes for that purpose made. And further, that the said Rigby told this Informant, that he had also bought Kettle Drums and Jack-Boots, which he this Informant afterwards saw at Standish-Hall, and p●ckt them up in several Ca●ks, which Casks he this Informant carried into Lancashire, and delivered as he was directed. This Informant saith, that amongst a great many others, that he this Informant carried, there was one of the Boxes seized at Litchfield, in which was 102 Swords.  
This Informant farther saith, that in March 1690/1, one Mr. Lunt delivered this Informant at his Inn in London four Packs, which he this Informant is very well assured were Arms; which said Packs he this Informant delivered as he was by the said Lunt directed at Preston, Standish, and Cr●ston in Lancashire.  
This Informant farther saith, that in the year 1691 and 1694, he this Informant received at his Inn, and carried for several Lancashire Gentlemen, great Quantities of Arms in Trunks and Boxes. viz for Mr. Standish of Standish Mr.— Tildesley of the Lodge, Mr. Ashton, Mr. Stamford, Captain Eccleston, Mr. Dickinson, Mr. Gradill of Barbers-moor, Captain Green (a Frenchman) at Standish-Hall, and several others. And this Informant saith, that it was usual for the Servants of the said Gentlemen to wait the Coming of this Informant's Horses, and take the said Boxes and Trunks of him upon the Road.  
This Informant saith, that in February 1692/3, the Lord Brandon Gerrard, and the Lord Willoughby, having Information of his this Informants customary Carrying of Arms from London did cause two Boxes of Swords, that this Informant then had brought from London to be seized at Wigan.  
This Informant farther saith, that in the latter end of the year 1692, he this Informant was employed by several of the aforesaid Gentlemen, to carry Arms (as aforesaid) for them, and also to bring up the Money to pay for them, which at one time, as this Informant verily believes, was about 200 l. but this Informant saith, that he very well knows, that the Servants and Agents of some of the Gentlemen aforementioned had far greater Sums returned up per Bill, which they laid out for Arms in London, as aforesaid.  
This Informant saith, that at a Meeting at Standish Hall in the Months of March or April 1692, of a great many Gentlemen, viz. Mr. Mollyneux, Sir William Gerrard and his Son, Captain Eccleston, Mr. Tildesley, Mr. Townley, Mr. Dickinson, and his Brother Captain Green, Mr. Haughton, Sir Thomas Clifton, Mr. Worthington, Mr. Trafford, Mr. William Standish, and others; he this Informant heard it discoursed amongst them of its being very necessary, that the Arms lodged in their several Houses should be divided and distributed amongst them. And also saith, that at another the like Meeting in July last at the same place of most of the same Gentlemen, and others, he this Informant saw a great Quantity of Arms and Warlike Equipage, as Kettledrums, Trumpets, Jack-Boots, and some Saddles divided amongst the Gentlemen following, to every one some, viz. to Sir William Gerrard, Mr. Mollyneux, Sir Thomas Clifton, Mr. Dalton, Mr. William Standish, Captain Green, Mr. Thomas Gerrard, Captain Eccleston, Mr. Ashton, Mr. Dickinson, Mr. Stamford, Mr. Gradill, Mr. Trafford, Mr. Tildesley, Mr. John Gerrard, Mr. Westley, Mr. Hesket, Mr. Haughton, Mr. Worthington, Captain Radish, Mr. Mollyneux of Mosbrough, Mr. Gillibourne, Mr. Anderton, Mr. Walmsley of Slowley, Mr. Shuttleworth, Mr. Sherbourn, for Mr. Walmesley of Dungan-Hall, and to several other Gentlemen. And saith, that he this Informant was assisting, and did help to pack up many of the said Arms in Boxes, and otherwise, and in loading on Horses, etc. in the night, and he this Informant verily believes the whole quantity then so divided as aforesaid, did amount to at least Arms enough for one thousand Horsemen. This Informant farther saith, that he this Informant is very well assured, that besides him this Informant, there were several other Carriers in Lancashire, that have been employed by the said Gentlemen aforesaid, and have carried very great quantities of Arms for them, as well as he this Informant. This Informant also saith, that at the said Meeting, the said Gentlemen did agree and resolve amongst themselves, that they would send for, and have provided for them, more and other Quantities of Arms of the same kind, and that Mr. Rigby, and Mr. Hatton should (more especially) be employed to buy the same, they having very dexterously, and with great care provided very great Quantities before. And he this Informant saith, that he is very certain (in pursuance of the said Agreement and Resolution) there has been bought and provided in London, and sent into Lancashire, great Quantities since the time of the said Meeting last mentioned.  
This Informant farther saith, That there has been kept for two or three years' last passed, and yet is amongst the Gentlemen mentioned in this Information, great numbers of very good Horses fi● for Service; and that the said Gentlemen their Servants or Agents do daily buy and provide as many as they can by any means come at, and particularly, that at Preston. Fair the tenth of March last, they bought up several very good Horses, and would then have employed this Informant to have gone to Rixham Fair to have bought for them, where they also bought many more. And this Informant saith, they were the more earnest at that time to furnish themselves with as many Horses as by any means they could, because they did expect King James would be ready to Land here by our Lady-day last, or soon after; as he this Informant hath several times heard them say amongst themselves he would.  
And this Informant saith, that if a proper and secret Method be taken (and all notice thereof prevented) for the seizing all Horses in Lancashire so provided and fit for Service, as aforesaid, in the hands of the Gentlemen before mentioned, there might be seized (he verily believes) five hundred very good Horses.  
Jo. Womball. Jurat coram me, J. Trenchard.   

Laurence Brandon 's Affidavit.  
LAwrence Brandon of Pennington in the County of Lancaster maketh Oath, that he knows William Standish of Standish-Hall in the said County, Esq and his Son, commonly called the Young Lord of Standish; and that about May in the year 1691, this Deponent being invited by one James Leightagh to go with him, and several other Persons to dine at Standish-Hall aforesaid; and upon such Invitation this Deponent and the rest did go to Standish Town in the way to the said Hall, and being at the said Town, it was agreed on between the said James Leightagh, and the rest of the Company rather to dine at the said Town of Standish, then to go to the Hall, because there seemed some difference like to arise between the said Leightagh and John Neyler on the one part, and John Sharp Servant to the said Mr. Standish, and James Hayes on the other part, concerning the Places of Quartermaster and Corporal of a Troop of Horse to be raised by the said Mr. Standish for the Service of King James, which was promised to the said Leightagh and Neyler; and the said Sharp and Hayes pretended unto the same: Whereupon the Deponent and the rest of the Company did dine at Standish Town at the Charges of the said Leightagh and John Neyler, and after Dinner they went from thence to Standish-Hall, where in the Kitchen, the said Leightagh and Neyler met the said Sharp and Hayes, and after some Discourses on both sides concerning the Places aforesaid, the said Sharp and Hayes were contented to quit their Pretensions to the same, and consented that Leightagh and Neyler should have the same. Upon which Agreement the said Leightagh and Neyler desired to speak with Mr. Standish, and bid this Deponent, and the rest of the Company to follow them, which they did, and were conducted into a Parlour, where the Young Lord of Standish was; and being told by the said Leightagh and Neyler, that they had broughe Men to be Listed under his Command; he welcomed this Deponent and the rest, and made them sit round the Room, and made them drink, and told them, that the Nation had a great deal of wrong done by Banishing King James, that was their Rightful King, and that the design in hand was to do no Body wrong, but only to bring in their lawful King; and that some Aid for that purpose was shortly expected to come out of France and Ireland into England, and that they did design upon the News of the Landing of any Foreign Forces to make a general Rising of such Forces as they could procure for the said Service; and hoped they were willing, and would be ready to serve their King and Country on this Occasion; and assured them that they should go no further than he would lead them. And that upon their consenting and promising to be ready at his Command, the said Young Lord of Standish went out of the Room, and soon after returned with a Horseman's naked Sword, and bending the Blade thereof by way of Trial, shown it to the Company, and told them, they should be furnished with no worse than that, and should have Pistols, Holsters, Saddles, and all other Accoutrements fit for Troopers. And having some farther Consultation with the said Young Lord what course they should take to provide Horses, in case they should be called suddenly to meet, it was agreed, that such as had Horses of their own should make use of them, and those that had none should take the first they could meet with, and immediately upon any Alarm, or notice come to Standish-Hall to rendezvous, That after Directions about the Horses were given, some of the Company being apprehensive that Mr. Standish the Father might be offended, in case they should agree to go under the Command of his Son without his Consent; desired to speak with him, to be satisfied therein. Whereupon they sent to speak with him, and he came to them into the Hall, where being asked the question aforesaid, he told them all, it was indifferent to him, whether they choose to go under the Command of himself or his Son; and such as were not willing to go with his Son should be welcome to go with him, for their design was all one, and that was to bring again King James; or words to that effect. Whereupon about twelve of the Company (among whom this Deponent was one) made choice to go with the Young Lord, and the Remainder being to his remembrance the greater number, did resolve to go with Mr. Standish the Father, and then the Company divided, and this Deponent and those that had made their Election, went again into the Parlour to the young Lord, and drank some short time, and at their taking their leaves of him he gave them a word, by which they should know one another, which was, Go thy way old Trip; and then they parted from the said House to Wigan, in the way whither the said John Neyler overtook this Deponent and his Company, and told them he had brought some Money from Standish-Hall to be drunk by them, and carried them to the House of James Green in Wigan aforesaid, where he stayed with them some time and drank the Health of King James and their Captains, and then left them. And this Deponent farther saith; that at his this Deponents Return to his own House, his Wife being informed, that he had Listed himself a Soldier for King James, would not let this Deponent rest, or be at quiet until he had promised not to concern himself any farther in the matter. Upon which he this Deponent never went near them any more.  
Lawrence Brandon. Jurat ' 11. Feb. 1695 Cor'me, Tho. Rokeby.   

Robert Bradley 's Affidavit.  
RObert Bradley of Chippin in the County of Lancaster maketh Oath, that he knows John Lunt, and became acquainted with him about the latter end of the year 1689, by the means of one Mr. Thrillfall, who brought him to his House, he this Deponent keeping an Inn in Chippin aforesaid; and that at that time the said Lunt went by the Name of Jackson, and that about a quarter of a year afterwards, there came into that Country several Irish Men, who said they were sent by Lunt from London, and that when they wanted Money, they said they were to have Money of Lunt, and amongst the said Irish there used to come to this Deponent's House several English Papists, and frequently used to drink their Old Master King James' Health; and threatened this Deponent (being a Protestant) to hang him when King James came in, often affirming he would come into England at such and such times; and Lunt often told this Deponent, that he had Listed not only the Irish, but several of this Deponent's Neighbours, besides Thirty that he had Listed at Wiersdale, and amongst the Neighbours named Clerkson, Hodgkinson and Hearst, and that one Cottam was to be Quartermaster. And this Deponent saith, that Lunt desired one Sharpless, where the said Lunt Tabled, to be Listed, as the said Sharpless informed him; but said he refused to be Listed by the said Lunt fearing he had not wherewith to maintain his Soldiers. And this Deponent saith, one John Wilson kept the List and burned it by his own Acknowledgement at the Request of Lunt. And this Deponent farther saith, that several of the Irsh Men were furnished with all new Clothes at Chippin, and that Lunt was among them and lived with them: And that the said Irish Men were lodged at Mr. Harris', at Mr. Perkinson's and several other Popish Houses: And this Deponent saith, that Lunt always went in good Habit, that he had Money and paid as well as any Man, and many times for the Irish, and gave them Money.  
Robt. Bradley. Jurat ' 11. die Febr. 1695, Coram me, Tho. Rokeby.   

Francis Jackson's Affidavit.  
FRancis Jackson of the City of Chester, maketh Oath, that in or about the Month of July 1694 he this Deponent being a Constable, did receive from the Hands of S. John Manwaring two Warrants of High-Treason under the Hands of one or both of the then Secretaries of State, against Sir Rowland Stanley and Mr.— Massey of Puddington, and likewise for the Seizing of all Arms and Accoutrements of War, belonging to them: And this Deponent in pursuance of the said Warrants, did Apprehend and take into Custody the said Sir Rowland Stanley, and did deliver him into the Castle of Chester to the Deputy Governor thereof; but could not find the said Massey: But this Deponent did find and seize in a dark Room of the House of the said Massey (put into a Chest covered with an old long Pillow nine new Dragoon's Saddles, as this Deponent doth believe, with Buckles, Rings and Staples to them for breastplates, Holsters and Cloaks, with Cruppers, Girts and Stirrups to them all new, and six new half Gheek bit-Bridles.  
Francis Jackson. Jurat ' 14. die Febr. 1695/6, Coram, Sam. Eyre.   

The Information of John Wilson of Chippin in the County of Lancaster.  
THAT he this Informant doth remember, that at Christmas last was four Years, one Mr. Thrillfall of Goosner in the said County of Lancaster and one Mr. John Lunt who went then by the Name of Jackson, said they came from King James out of Ireland into Lancashire, as he had been informed also by others, and this Informant being at that time in their Company at Goosner heard them say, they had brought several Commissions from King James to several Roman Catholic Gentlemen and others in Lancashire and other Places, one of which he this Informant saw, viz. One for Mr. Lunt to be a Lieutenant under Mr. Thrillfall, and Mr. Thrillfall told him, be had a Commission to be a Captain.  
And this Informans farther saith, that at the same time of his seeing them at Goosner as aforesaid, there was one with them that went by the Name of Alderton, who was writing to London for Arms as they said, and heard them discoursing, that they had others that had bought great Quantities of Arms and other things for War, some of which he this Informant at that time saw, viz. five or six Swords, two Case of Postols and one Pocket-Pistol, and to the best of his remembrance a Dagger, and Armour made of white Paper sowed together with yellow Wire, and that they were endeavouring to get a great many more, all which were for King James' Service: And this Informant further saith, that soon after Mr. Thrillfall and Mr. Lunt their coming over as abovesaid, he was employed by the said Thrillfall and Lunt to make double Girts for four Buckles for Troopers Saddles, and accordingly did make 34, 23 of which be delivered to the said Thrillfall, who told him that upon their having Occasion he should make more.  
That the Candlemas after this Informant was at Goosner, Mr. Thrillfall told him he had twenty Irish Men already for his Troop, most of which this Informant at that time saw, who said themselves, that Lunt spoke to them, and sent them down from London to be Soldiers for King James under Mr. Thrillfall, and the said Irish Men was at Thrillfall's, and in the Country for several Months; some of which were afterwards imprisoned in Lancaster Goal, he doth remember the Names of some of them, viz. Thomas Lock, William Macarty and Oneal, Dumbarton, two whose Names were Bourn, and two whose Names were Cook, Kelly a tall Man, Walter Tate, Richard Lettuce a little Man well skilled as be said in fencing, Hugh Neal, one Locksome who used to have a Spaniel with brown Spots, which used to lie with him upon the Bed, one they called Long-Boy a Tailor, one Mr. Dalton a very handsome comely Man, a fat Man that wore a blue Apron who was taken for a Preston Butcher, who used to ask any body that looked upon him, if they had any fat Calves or Sheep to be sold.  
And this Informant farther saith, that betwixt 2 or 3 Years ago the said Mr. Lunt came to this Informants House, and then did declare to this Informant, that he the said Lunt had been at Dungan-Hall with Mr. Walinesley, who a be said was lately come from France, and the said Lunt said, he had received from the said Walmesley a Commission to be a Captain of Horse in a Regiment to be raised for King James' Service, and that the said Walmesley was to be Colonel of the same, which Commission he this Informant at that time saw in the Hands of Mr. Lunt and heard him read the same. And this Informant saith, that a little after the said Lunts receipt of the said Commission as aforesaid, he this Informant saw the said Mr. Lunt lift severel Men for King James 's Service, viz. Richard Cottam, Edward Cottam, The. Swinghurst, Lancellot Bolton, William Hodgkinson, Henry Bourne, Richard Beesley, Robert Clarkson, his Brother Cuthbert Wilson, and this Informant, and several others promised that they would list themselves the next time Lunt came to this Informants House.  
And about 3 Years and a half ago Mr. Lunt told this Informant, that he the said Lunt had listed six Men in Wyersdale for King James' Service, and that he was promised a great many more there, and about three Years since Mr. Lunt told this Informant, he had listed twelve Men in Cheshire for the said Service.  
At Inglewbite Fair was three Years, Mr. Lunt sent this Informant to one James Bradley a York Carrier, that lived a little beyond long Ridgefel with a Letter, this Informant brought him the said Lunt back to the best of his remembrance a Letter in answer to that sent, but does positively say, he brought back a Watch from the said Carrier and delivered it to Lunt. Near three Years ago (to the best of this Informants remembrance) Mr. Lunt came to this Informants House and told him, he was going to the Lord Molyneuxes to meet a great many Gentlemen there. Much about the same time Mr. Lunt sent him this Informant, to one William Hodgkinson of Legrum about buying of a black Mare of the said Hodgkinson, and ordered him to bring him back an Answer to Dungan Hall, and accordingly this Informant did return with his Message to Dungan-Hall, and then and there he this Informant saw in Company with Mr. Lunt, viz. Mr. Charles Harris, Robert Holden and several other Gentlemen that this Informant did not know, and this Informant after a little stay there, did see a Gentleman they called Mr. Walmesley come down Stairs into a Room at the foot of the Stairs, where the said Lunt and the other Gentlemen were, and a little time after he came into the said Room he saw the said Lunt pull a Paper out of his Pocket, and deliver it to the said Walmesley who received the same, which this Informant doth believe was a Roll of Men listed for King James 's Service, because the next Time he this Informant met with and saw the said Lunt (which was about a fortnight after,) he told him that the Paper he saw him deliver to Mr. Walmesley, was a Roll or List of the Names as aforesaid.  
John Wilson, Jurat ' 5. die Oct. 1694. Coram me, G. Eyre.   

Ann eliot's Affidavit.  
AND eliot late of Chippin in the County of Lancaster now living in London maketh Oath, that about the beginning of the Year 1691. She this Deponent then living in Chippin aforesaid, knew John Lunt, who then went by the Name of Jackson, and this Deponent saith, that about that Time there came into that Country several Irish Men, who said they were come from London, and sent down by Lunt, and that they were listed at London by the said Lunt for the Service of King James: And this Deponent saith, that the said Irish Men called Lunt their Lieutenant, and at all times when they were together, that they could be free, owned him and obeyed his Commands as their Lieutenant, and in this Deponents hearing promised to be ready to rise in Arms with the said Lunt to bring in their old Master, which they said was King James: And this Deponent further saith, that several Roman Catholic Gentlemen and others, contributed towards their Subsistence, and amongst the rest this Deponent herself. And this Deponent saith, that Lunt received the Money for the use of the said Irish: And this Deponent saith, she hath heard one Mr. Lock, who went under the Name of an Irish Man, complain that Lunt had brought him down from London to his Prejudice, because he did not find what was promised was performed, Nevertheless he would be ready with the rest for the said Service. And this Deponent saith, she set up many Nights to wait on the said Irish Men, sometimes by 12 in a Company or more. And this Deponent saith, she hath often questioned, whence they would have all those Arms they pretended to have, who answered we know very well whence to have them.  
Ann eliot. Jurat ' 11. die Febr. 1695. Coram me, Tho Rokeby.   

The Information of George Wilson.  
THIS Informant upon his Oath saith, that in or about the Month of April 1689, one Doctor Bromfeild came to William Fitzherbert Esq at Wapra near West-Chester in Flintshire, where he the said Bromfeild lay concealed for some time for a Passage into Ireland, from whence he was recomended to this Informant to assist him, who then lived near the Seaside, at a Place called Redland, where after the said Bromfeild had stayed about a Week; this Informant did assist him in the buying of a Boat of about 25 Tun, which said Boat being victualled and ready to Sail, was seized by Mr. Morston, and Bromfeild escaped to Mr. Crosby's in Lancashire, from whence by the Assistance of Mr. Peirce Morston, Mr. Winn of Gop, Mr. Lloyd of Greith, Mr. Robert Brierwood of West Chester, Mr. George Pennant, Mr. Pew of Pendall, and this Informant, he afterwards got over in a open Boat.  
This Informant farther saith, that being searched for by Troopers from West Chester, and other Soldiers, and by the Civil Officers of the Country, was forced to leave his House and Family, and hid himself in the Woods for many Days, and could never return to his House again; but got into Lancashire, whither his Wife and Family followed him, where he this Informant was received and entertained by Lord Molyneux, Coll. Tildesley, Mr. Standish of Standish, Sir Rowland Stanley, Sir James Pool, Sir William Gerrard, Coll. Townley and others; sometime at the House of one Gentleman, and sometimes at another's.  
This Informant saith, that about Midsummer, 1689, he this Informant and others were ordered and directed by the Gentlemen aforesaid, and others, to look out about the Seacoasts thereabouts, for any Gentlemen that should arrive from Ireland; for at that time he this Informant was told they expected some Friends and News from Ireland, which he this Informant did, and about the beginning of June 1689, Mr. Edmund Thrillfall of the Ashe● in Goosner; and one Mr. Lunt arrived at Cockram, and came immediately to Col. Tildesley's with several Bundles of Papers, where this Informant was then attending their coming, etc.  
This Informant saith, that upon their coming to the said Coll. Tildesley's, the said Thrillfall and Mr. Lunt, immediately opened their Cloakbags, and took out several Commissions, Declarations, Blanks and sealed Papers from King James, to several Persons and Gentlemen of Quality in that Country and York shire and divided them; those for Yorkshire Mr. Thrillfall put up, and undertook to deliver, and had a Guide immediately provided; the others for Lancashire, Cheshire, Staffordshire and Parts thereabouts, Mr. Lunt took to himself to deliver; and had this Informant with him from Place to Place to Guide and Assist him in the Delivery of them, and after they had left and delivered to Coll. Tildesley his Commission for being a Colonel (which he the said Coll. received upon his Knees and kissed it, with the Blanks for his inferior Officers) they proceeded, and went to the Lord Molyneux his House, and delivered one Colonels Commission to Mr. William Molyneux his Son for a Regiment of Horse, with Blanks for his inferior Officers; he the said Coll. Molyneux immediately filling that Blank for the lieutenant-colonel, delivered it in the Presence of this Informant to Mr. William Gerrard, who was with the said Coll. Molyneux when he this Informant and Mr. Lunt came in.  
This Informant further saith, that he this Informant was present, and did see Mr. Lams deliver to Mr. Sherbourn of Stonyhurst, a Collonel's-Commission with Blanks as aforesaid for a Regiment of Horse.  
To Mr. Townley of Townley the like for Horse.  
To Mr. Girlinton of Girlington Esq a colonel's Commission.  
To Mr. Westby of Mobrick Esq the like for Dragoons.  
To Mr. Legh of Lyme Esq a Cossonel's Commission with Blanks as aforesaid.  
To Sir Tho. Stanley of Alderley the like for Horse.  
To Mr. Chumley of Vale Royal the like for Horse, etc.  
To Sir Rowland Stanley the like for Horse, etc.  
To Sir Robert Throgmorten the like for Horse, etc.  
To Sir Henry Titchbourn he being then at the Lord Molyneux the like for Horse.  
To Sir— Gisfard of Chillington the like for Horse.  
To Sir James Symmons of Ashton in Staffordshire, the like for Horse.  
This Informant saith, that be also saw Sir Robert Throgmorton fill up a Lieutenant colonel's Commission to his own Regiment, and deliver it to one Sir Charles Neale, who accepted the same, and kissed it upon his Knees.  
And that he this Informant also was present, and saw Sir James Symmons deliver a Captain's Commission to Mr. William Fowler of St. Thomas near Stafford.  
And also when Sir Thomas Gifford delivered a Captain's Commission to Mr. Augustin Gifford, and also to Capt. Gowre the like Captain's Commission, and to Bazil Brooks Esq the like Captain's Commission, and to Mr. John Pursel a Cornet's Commission, and to Thomas Pursell a Warrant for Quarter Master, and to several other inforiour Officers and the several Colonels aforesaid.  
This Informant saith, that all these Colonels Commissions with the Blanks as aforesaid, were delivered by Mr. Lunt in the presence of this Informant: And this Informant saith, he knows they were such Commissions, because he saw them and heard most of them read at the time of the delivery to them. And for the Lieutenant Colonel and other inferior Officers Commissions, he this Informant saw most of them filled up by the Superiors, and delivered to the inferior Officers as aforesaid: And this Informant further saith, that at the same time aforesaid, he this Informant saw the aforesaid Mr. Lunt, deliver to my Lord Molyneux a sealed Paper, which he this Informant saw him the Lord Molyneux open, and read; which to the best of this Informants Memory was purporting a Commission and Instructions for the Care and Government of Liverpoole.  
This Informant also saith, that he was at a Meeting at Sir John Lawsons' in York shire, about the Month of March than next following with Mr. Lunt, where were the Gentlemen Mr. Lunt names in his Information, where he this Informant then heard most of them publicly own, that they had received Commissions by Mr. Thrillfall some time before from King James, and would then have obliged this Informant and Mr. Lunt, to have engaged with them the Gentlemen of the Country, etc.  
This Informant further saith, that about the beginning of the Year 1691, he this Informant heard that Mr. Lunt was employed in and about London to list Men: And this Informant saith, that some short time after several Men came into Lancashire as from London, and said they were listed by the said Mr. Lunt, and sent down to serve under the Command of some of the Officers aforesaid; and he this Informant saith, that as fast as they came down, he was ordered by my Lord Molyneux, Sir Thomas Clifton, Coll. Molyneux, Coll. Tildesley, Coll. Townley, Sir William Gerrard and his Son, and several thers the Officers aforesaid, to take Care of them and provide Quarters or Lodgings for them, which the said Informant did accordingly, and that at several Times this Informant had, and did, receive Money from my Lord Molyneux Coll. Til●desley, Coll. Townley, Sir William Gerrard and sime others to pay the said Soldiers for their Subsistance: And this Informant saith, he did pay and distribute the Money he so received amongst them, which this Informant saith, in the whole did amount to (to the best of his Mneoy) about 3 or 400 l. the Names of many of the Soldiers, this Informant yet remembers, and a List of them was delivered into the House of Commons when the Plot was examined there.  
And this Informant saith, that he is very well assured, that the said Mr. Lunt did at several other times before, and after, List a great many more than those named in the List aforementioned.  
This Informant further saith, that about the Month of February 1691, he this Informant was at a general Meeting of several Gentlemen at Coll. Walmesley at Dungan-Hall in Lancashire, many of whom he yet remembers, viz. Coll. Townley, Coll. Tildesley, Coll. Molyneux, Coll. Dalton, Sir William Gerrard, Mr. Gerrard, Mr. Dickingson, Mr. Stanley, Mr. Shuttleworth, Mr. Tildesley of Stansare, Mr. Massey of Buddington, Mr. Langton of the Lo, Mr. Gerrard of Inch, Sir Thomas Clifton, Mr. blundel of Crosby, Coll. Westby of Mobrick, Coll. Parker, and others the said Coll. Walmesley being then lately come out of France, he the said Coll. then produced publicly in the said Meeting several Commissions, Declarations, Grants or Patents, that he had then lately brought from King James of several gentlemen's Estates of that Country to other Gentlemen there, that were King James 's Friends, 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Coll. Tildesley, Lord Molyneux, Coll. Westbey of Mobrick, Coll. Townley of Townley, Sir Th●●as Clifton, Sir William Gerrard, Coll. Molyneux, Mr. Gerrard of Inch, Mr. Langton of Lo, and s●●e others.  
This Informant further saith, that above a Fortnight after, he this Informant was at the like Meeting at Philip Draycots of Painesley-Hell in the County of Stafford Esquire, of most of the aforesaid Gentlemen, and others as Mr. Bazill Brooks, Sir James Symonds, Sir Richard Fleetwood and his Sons William and Rowland,— Carry of Cary Esquire, and others where were produced several of the like Grants and Patents as aforesaid, brought over by the Lord Stafford, and there also given out to those they did belong to; this Informant further saith, that at this Meeting aforesaid Coll. Par●●● being also there, and was then also lately come out of France, he the said Coll. did then publicly produce and deliver to one Capt. George Penny then in the Company a Commission from King James, for the said Penny to be a Major of Horse, which he said Capt. Penny accepted of with many Thanks, and promised to do the King the best Service be could.  
And this Informant further saith, that at another Time being at a Meeting with the said Coll. Parker at the Sign of the Star an Inn in Holywell in Flintshire and about twenty Gentlemen more, he this Informant there saw the said Parker deliver one Commission from King James to one Mr. Pew of Pendrell to be a Captain of Horse; and at the same time, he the said Parker delivered in the presence of this Informant to one Mr. George Davies of Treloughnel and to several others, and that the said Parker did there and at several other times, as well as at the aforementiond Meetings, order, direct and desire all the Officers to take Care to have their Men ready at an Hours warning, with a Pound of Powder and Ball proportionable to each Man, for that he expected News of the Kings Landing every day, etc.  
This Informant saith, that about the beginning of the Year 1689, he this Informant was ordered and employed by Mr. Massey, Sir James Symonds, Sir Thomas Gifford and Capt. Fowler to List as many Men as be could in Staffordshire and North-Wales for King James' Service under their Command, and that he this Informant had Money of the aforesaid Gentlemen for that Purpose: and this Informant saith, that he did at that Time (that is to say) within the space of three Weeks List about sixty Men, whose Names this Informant hath by him ready to produce as he then took them. This Informant also saith, that he hath been since employed to List Men several Times in the latter end of the Year 1691, and in the beginning of the Year 1692, by several other Gentlemen as Coll. Walmesley, Capt. Penny, Mr. Standish of Standish, Mr. Morst●n of Delakerey and Capt. Pennant of Baggal.  
And this Informant saith, he did at these Times by the order and directions of those Gentlemen last above mentioned, List about the number of Sixscore, and had Money of the said Captain, by the Hands of Capt. Pennant for that Purpose.  
And this Informant further saith, that he did several Times after he had so listed the said Soldiers, pay them subsistence Money by order of Penny and Pennant, from whom he had the some.  
And this Informant further saith, that he has several Times seen great quantities of Arms in the Houses of the Gentlemen hereafter mentioned in North-Wales, Cheshire, Staffordshire and Lancashire, viz in the House of Mr. Massey of Puddington, Capt. Penny, Capt. Pennant, Sir James Symonds, Sir Thomas Giffard, Mr. Fowler, Mr. Draycott, Sir William Gerrard, Mr. Walmesley, Mr. Standish of Standish-Hall, and in some other Houses that he cannot at present remember.  
In the whole this Informant verily believes, that there were in the several Houses abovesaid, that he this Informant saw, Arms for at least a Thousand Men, and that it is not above two years at the most since he this Informant saw them there;  
George Wilson. Jurat ' 27. die Junii 1694. Coram me, J. Trenchard.   

Elizabeth Hearst 's Affidavit.  
ELizabeth Hearst of the Hough in the County of Lancaster, maketh Oath, That last Summer was twelve Months, in the year 1694, when John Womball and others were seizing of Horses in the said County, she this Deponent desired the said Womball to go no longer abroad upon that account, and also to lea●● any further prosecuting the matter against the Gentlemen in the said County, and she this Deponent would give him the said Womball One hundred Pounds, and moreover that he the said Womball should never want; and that 'twas the only way to prevent a distraction amongst the Gentlemen, but that he the said Womball refused so to do, and that after the late Trials at Manchester, when the General Voice of the Country went, that Womball was to be set on the Pillory, she this Deponent went to one Houghton a Romish Priest, and told him, that she heard Womball was whipped, and Pillored; he advised her to go home, and be satisfied; for there was no such thing; and that Womball had sworn nothing but what was Truth, and the Gentlemen were satisfied in it; But that the Gentlemen were Men of great Estates, and would do what in them lay to save themselves, for Life was sweet. Some time before which one John Brown, menial Servant to William Standish of Standish, Esq lay all Night at her House, and told her, that if Womball would have been content to have left off the Prosecution of the Gentlemen aforesaid, his Master speaking, William Standish Esq would have settled One hundred Pounds a year upon him. And also this Deponent saith, that one Cuthbert Thrillfall Son of Edmund Thrillfall of the Ashes in Goosher in the said County, and one Bacon, that was with him said, that John Lunt came over with Edmund Thrillfall Father of the said Cuthbert, and brought over Commissions with them from King James then in Ireland; and that both Father and Son were to be Captains; and that this Deponent knew the said Lunt, and that he the said Lunt went from place to place as this Deponent was informed, to Gather Money; and that she this Deponent Contributed thereunto;  
El. Hearst. Jurat ' 8. die Febr. 1695. Coram, Tho. Rokeby.   

Thomas Clayton 's Affidavit.  
THomas Clayton maketh Oath, that in or about October 1694, when the Proceed and Trials of the Lancashire and Cheshire Gentlemen was under Examination before the House of Commons, he this Deponent being then a Servant at the Swan-Inn at Holborn-Bridge, was then and there, in Company with one William Ashton, a Lancashire Man, and one of this Deponent's former Acquaintance, and as they were sitting together in the Taphouse of the said Inn, this Deponent asked the said Ashton in what Country he had been (this Deponent being before that time informed that the said Ashton had been in the Country) who told this Deponent, that he had been in Lancashire; and this Deponent ask him what business he had in that Country? he answered, he had been there as an Evidence for the Gentlemen that were Tried at Manchester. And this Deponent ask him the said Ashton what he knew of that Affair? He smiled, and said that be knew little or nothing of it; but that the Gentlemen had given him at the Blue Boar in Holborn the Sum of Ten Pounds, before he went down into the Country, as an Evidence for them, and that since his Return from thence, Madam Legh, (Mr. Legh of Lime's Mother) had given him Five Pounds more; and then told this Deponent, that if he would but say any thing in the House of Commons (for the matter was to be Examined there) that would vilify John Womball, or blacken the Reputation of the King's Evidences, that Mr. Legh of Lime, and the rest of the Gentlemen concerned in that Affair, would be very kind to this Deponent. And a little after this Discourse, the said Ashton parted and left this Deponent, and about two days after the said Ashton called again on this Deponent at the said Swan-Inn, and told him, that Sir Gilbert Clark and Mr. Peter. Shackerley desired him this Deponent, to go to Sir Gilbert Clark's House in Red Lion Square; but this Deponent answered the said Ashton, that if they had any Business with him, they might come where he was, for he had not Concern with them; so the said Ashton went away immediately, and about two hours after the said Ashton came into the Yard to this Deponent, and told him that Sir Gilbert. Clark and Mr. Shackerley were now come themselves, and desired him this Deponent to go to them into the Tap house of the said Inn, and this Deponent went accordingly; and after his fitting down as they desired, the said Sir Gilbert Clark going then by that Name; and Mr. Shackerley, whom this Deponent did know, asked this Deponent, if he knew Womball? and he answered, that he knew him very well, for that he had been his Fellow-servant for several years; and then they asked this Deponent, if Womball had not pressed him, or solicited him to swear, That he this Deponent had (being formerly a Lancashire Carrier) carried Arms for those Gentlemen, that had been accused by the said Womball and others: But this Deponent told them, that the said Womball never did solicit him to any such thing; but the said Sir Gilbert Clark and Mr. Shackerley did then tell this Deponent, that they would take care to prefer him to a good Place or Employ, provided he would appear, and declare in the House of Commons (for the Lancashire Gentlemen were to have a Hearing of that Matter there) that Womball before the Trials at Manchester bade offered to this Deponent One hundred Pounds to swear, That when this Deponent was a Carrier, he had carried Arms to Mr. Dickinson's of Rightington, and Mr. Standish of Standish-Hall in Lancashire; and that he would farther say, That Womball told him, that the Earl of Macclesfield was the first Men that gave him the said Womball any Encouragement to swear against the Lancashire Gentlemen. And that he and his Horses were both maintained and kept at the said Earl of Macclesfield's Charge upon that account; and that be also was promised Preferment, and an Estate by the said Earl for so doing. And that this Deponent should speak as fully upon that Point concerning the said Earl as he could. And the said Mr. Shackerly did then, and there, writ a Paper in the presence of this Deponent, of these Particulars, and of what the said Sir Gilbert Clark and himself would have had this Deponent to have declared in the House of Commons as aforesaid. And the said Mr. Shackerley read it over several times to this Deponent, that he might the better remember it. But this Deponent showing some unwillingness, and great fear of speaking such things that he knew in his Conscience to be wholly untrue of so great a Men as the Earl of Macclesfield, Mr. Shackerley replied, and told him, that he was not to be upon his Oath before the House of Commons, and therefore assured him he could receive no harm or prejudice by declaring the same there. And then the said Sir Gilbert Clark and Mr. Shackerley said, they could not stay, but were in haste, and went away; but left one Shilling with this Deponent, and the said Ashton to drink; and about two or three days after a Gentleman who went by the Name of Beresford (and this Deponent hath been informed was Cashier to Mr. Legh of Lime, and the rest of the Gentlemen concerned in that Affair) came to this Deponent to the said Swan Inn, and told him, that Sir Gilbert Clark desired to speak with him at his House in Red Lion Square; and the said Beresford and this Deponent went immediately to the said House, and Sir Gilbert Clark and they two went presently to Madam Legh's, and went into an inner Room of the said House, where there was a Young Gentleman of little stature, in a Morning Gown, whose Name (as this Deponent was then informed by the said Clerk and Berasford) was Mr. Legh of Lime, and then and there the said Clerk, Legh and Beresford, by their Persuasions, make this Deponent promise to appear (upon their notice) at the House of Commons, and there declare those Particulars aforesaid, that Sir Gilbert Clark and Mr. Shackerley had dictated to this Deponent to speak against the said Earl of Macclesfield and Womball as aforesaid; and the said Mr. Legh did then and there give to this Deponent twenty Shillings, and promised to give him a far greater Sum, but said he could deposit no more Money till the Business was ●over in the House of Commons, about three or four days after that time the said Beresford and Ashton came to this Deponent at the Swan Inn aforesaid, and told him, that Sir Gilbert Clark and Mr. Shackerley desired him to go immediately to the House of Commons, and upon his Examination there, he should declare all those things concerning the said Earl of Macclesfield and Womball as aforesaid, and this Deponent went accordingly with the said Beresford and Ashton to the Lobby of the House of Commons, and a little after they came there, the said Beresford gave to this Deponent 25 s. desiring him not to acquaint any Body, that he, or any one else, had given him Money upon that Account; withal promising this Deponent when the Business was over in the House of Commons, he should be taken care of, and preferred. And while this Deponent was waiting in the said Lobby of the House of Commons in order to declare those things to the House when called in, that were dictated to him by the said Sir Gilbert Clark, and Mr. Shackerley, as aforesaid, the said Mr. Shackerley came out of the House (being a Member thereof) and bid this Deponent not to mention any thing in the House of or against the Earl of Macclesfield, because he said it was not then convenient; But that he should vilify and speak as much against Womball as he could, for that the rest of the King's Evidence signified but little, or words to that effect. And this Deponent was accordingly called in at that time of his Attendance there, and did say as much as he could remember according to their direction as aforesaid. And this Deponent farther saith, that he knows John Womball very well; for that he was a Fellow-servant with him several years, with one James Knowles of Croston in Lancashire a Carrier; and that he the said Knowles did always very much confide in the said Womballs fidelity and honesty, and that to this Deponent's Knowledge, the said Womball was Industrious and Careful in the Concerns of his said Master. And this Deponent doth farther say, that the said Womball did never at any time offer, or promise him this Deponent, any Sum of Money, or Reward whatsoever, to invite him this Deponent to swear to his carrying Arms as aforesaid, or otherwise. And this Deponent farther saith, That about three years and a half ago the said Womball being then a Carrier, and had then a Gang of Horses of his own; he this Deponent being then travelling out of Lancashire to London, met one Richard Ryley, who was at that time Womballs Servant, in the way from London into Lancashire, with the said Gang of Horses, at an Inn near Daventry in Northamptonshire, and this Deponent did then and there see a great Trunk carried by a Grey Gelding of the said Womballs called Stubb, and the Directions upon it were for Mrs. Mary Ridley, or Ridgley, to the best of this Deponent's remembrance, and to be left at Wigan Lan-house in Lancashire, till called for; and about seven or eight days after, as this Deponent was returning from London he met in Coventry one Mr. Tho. Badiley of Nemcastle in S●affordshire, a Carrier, who at that time had the said Trunk, and this Deponent did then see the same, and the said Badiley did then tell this Deponent, that the said Trunk had been seized of Wemball at Litchfield, by one of the King's Messengers; and that the said Trunk was full of Swords when so seized; and that he the said Badiley saw the Swords taken out of it. And this Deponent farther saith, That it was commonly discoursed in Lancashire before and after the time of seizing the said Trunk at Litchfield as aforesaid, that the said Womball did frequently carry Arms for the Roman Catholic Gentlemen in the said County. And this Deponent farther saith, That at the time he was in the Lobby of the House of Commons, as aforesaid, the said Mr. Shackerley and Beresford came to him and urged him to say in the House of Commons, That be known Mr. Lunt 's Father (though this Deponent never did) and that his Father should tell him this Deponent, that his Son the said John Lunt had four Wives, and that he was a very wicked Fellow, and did not care what he either said or swore, or words to that effect; But desired him to say nothing of the matter to any, out of the House of Commons, till the Business was over, for if he did, it mould certainly be carried against the Gentlemen, and then this Deponent would lose what they intended to give him;  
Tho. Clayton. Jurat ' 11 die Febr: 1695, Coram Tho. Rokeby.   

Oliver Pearson 's Affidavit.  
OLiver Pearson of Longridge in the Parish of Ribohester, and County of Lancaster, maketh Oath, that about Christmas last was three years, he this Deponent being a Servant to John Womball of Wigan-Lane Carrier, was employed as his Servant to manage his Affairs, he this Deponent went to meet his said Master's Packhorses loaden with Goods from London, and coming through Wigan Lane aforesaid, at an Alehouse formerly known by the Sign of the White Bull, adjoining to the wayside, Mr. Standish of Standish-Hall in the said County, and Mr. Standish his Son came out of the said House, and they knowing this Deponent, called for a Pot of Ale and gave it him, and this Deponent going a little further in Wigan-Lane aforesaid with the said Pack horses to a Pool or Pond, where Horses used to wash and water, a Mare with her Pack by accident was thrown down, and after she was recovered, he drove the Horses home to his said Master's house, and there he uncorded the Pack that was upon the said Mare, and in the mean time came Mr. Standish the younger aforesaid, and asked for this Deponent's Master, and this Deponent answered, he left him at Wigan, than the said Mr. Standish said, he had some Goods brought from London upon those Packhorses that were directed to Blackbourn, and told this Deponent the Marks of the Goods, but to whom they were directed, or the Marks of those Goods, this Deponent cannot remember; then the said Mr. Standish desired he might have the said Goods brought home that same night, which this Deponent promised should be done; and when this Deponent's Master came home, he told him of it, and likewise told him what a Misfortune had happened to the Mare in the Pond as aforesaid, and desired his Master to look upon the Goods that were in that Pack, to see if they were not spoiled; and his said Master going into the Barn where all the Packs lay, he opened the Boxes that were in the said Pack, and found in them Pistols for Horsemen, and when he saw that they were Pistols, he threw straw ever them that they might not be seen, and this was upon a Saturday night. And this Deponent farther saith, that upon the Sunday night following about Twelve a Clock his said Master ordered him to Saddle a good Gelding, and a Mare, and to take two Corn-Sacks into the Barn, and there this Deponent and his Master filled those Sacks with the Pistols as full as they could well be carried on Horseback; then his said Master opened other Packs and found two Kettle Drums (the Kettle Drums were in a Cask made for the purpose) which be whelved upon this Deponents bed as he sat on Horseback upon one of the Sacks of Pastols; and when this Deponent began to ride forward, the Kettle Drums made a noise by rattling one against another, and so frighted the Horse that this Deponent was thrown, and with the Fall wounded his head upon a Scone. Afterwards this Deponent and his Master went to the said Standish-Hall with the said Pistols and Kettledrums and delivered them to Thomas Hatton (the said Mr. Standish's Steward) upon the Bowling Green belonging to Standish-Hall, and that done the said Thomas Hatton took this Deponent and his said Master into the House and gave them some drink, and likewise gave this Deponent a Shilling, and then this Deponent went home with his Master. And this Deponent farther saith, that his Master did usually go to the said Bowling-Green upon public Bowling-days (if he was not abroad upon Business) and he the said Womball did very often stay longer than ordinary, when he went to Standish Hall upon Bowling-days; and when his said Master did stay longer than ordinary, this Deponent did go to fetch him home; and one time amongst the rest his said Master told him, that he had been with, viz. Mr. Dickinson, Mr. Townley, and a great many more whose Names he has forgot (but these he remembers) and likewise told him, that these Gentlemen promised to give him a considerable Sum of Money for what Losses and Trouble he had been at upon their Account: And the said Old Mr. Standish in Discourse said, that he would gratify him himself. And this Deponent farther saith, that before and after, the Kettle Drums and Pistols were carried to Standish Hall, as aforesaid, his said Master brought several Boxes in Packs from London (the Boxes being like those the Pistols were in, and had the same marks as they had) to his own House, and afterwards carried them to Standish Hall. And his said Master often times told him, that he believed these Boxes were full of Pistols or other Arms. And this Deponent farther saith, that about seven years ago he called at a House within a Mile of Blackbourn aforesaid, where some Gentlemen were drinking in an Inner Room, and the Room door being open this Deponent enquired of some of the People of the House, who these Gentlemen were, and Answer was made that one of them was Mr. Walmesley, which said Walmesley this Deponent took particular notice of, because there was then a great talk in the Country of Mr. Walmesley's of Dungan-Hall his Coming to his Estate, and about four years ago this Deponent met the same Mr. Walmesley in Church-Parish about three quarters of a Mile from his House called Dungan-Hall, on Horseback with two or three Men in his Company. And this Deponent farther saith, that between three or four years since one Thomas Clayton then a Carrier, called at Thomas Smith's House in the said Wigan-Lane, and there he began to rail against this Deponent's said Master for carrying of Arms, and said he would Hang him for doing it, whereupon the said Smith (who was also a Carrier, and all inning at the Castle-Inn in Woodstreet London) rebuked the said Clayton for his so railing against this Deponent's Master, saying, that he would ruin both himself and other People, and by Persuasions made him hold his peace;  
Oliver Pearson. Jurat ' 15. die Febr. 1695. Coram me, Tho. Rokeby.   

The Information of Robert Dodsworth of Crosby Ravenswith in the County of Westmoreland Gentleman.  
THIS Informant upon his Oath saith, that about August last, he went to Mr. Tho. Carus of West-Hall in the County of Lancaster, and the said Mr. Carus told this Informant, that he could do him a kindness, and get him a Commission from his Cousin Tildesley meaning Col. Thomas Tildesley of the Lodge in the said County of Lancaster, Esq who had a Commission from the late King James to be a Colonel of Dragoons: And this Informant deposeth, that about a Month after came Edward Tildesley to Mr. Girlingtons at Thurland Castle in the said County of Lancaster, where Mr. Henry Butler and Mr. Thomas Carus desired him to speak to the said Thomas Tildesley the next time he saw him for a Commission for this Informant, and a little time after the said Thomas Tildesley and one Thrillfall, who went by the Name of Capt. Brown, came over to Thurland Castle, where this Informant did speak to the said Thomas Tildesley for a Commission, and the said Tildesley told this Deponent, that care should be taken that this Informant should have a Commission, and one Thomas Ducket told this Informant, that the said Thrillfall, alias Brown, had brought Commissions from the late King James. And it was reported amongst them, that the said King James would Land in a Month's Time; and some short time after the said Tho. Tildesley came again to Thurland Castle, and there this Informant asked him for a Captain's Commission, and the said Tildesley said, they were all disposed of, but told this Informant, he would put him into a Post. At the same time Mr. George Carus of Halton in the said County of Lancaster, came to this Informant and said, that he had been ordered a Month before to ask this Informant, if he would accept a Lieutenant's Place of Horse; to which this Informent gave his Consent, and therewith acquainted the said Thomas Tildesley, who told this Informant, that if he would bring a Troop of Dragoons, ●e should have an Independent Troop; for his Regiment being full, he could give out no more Commissions for Captains without Order from his Master, meaning the late King James, and most of the Discourse between this Informant and the said Thomas Tildesley, George Carus of Halton, Henry Butler, Thomas Ducket, Thomas Carus a●d John Girlington was hoping for the speedy Return of the said King James: And this Informant further deposeth, that some time after, which was in Christmas last, this Informant, went to Manchester, and carried a Letter from George Carus to Christopher Carus his Father, who read the same, and asked this Informant if he the said Christopher was a Captain, whether he would go under him, to which this Informant answered with all his Heart, than the said Christopher Carus said, he had a Commission under Coll. Molyneux, and had Power to choose his own Lieutenant and Cornet, only the Coll. desired to put in the Quartermaster: And then the said Mr. Christopher Carus told this Informant, that he should be his Lieutenant, and desired him to keep it private. This Informant further deposeth, that at Christmas last at his return from Manchester, he came to Mr. Standish at Standish in the said County of Lancaster, who asked this Informant, if he was named for a Commission, and the Informant told him, that he was a Lieutenant under Capt. Christopher Carus, and after Supper the said Mr. Standish went with this Informant into his Chamber, and having called for some Drink, he drank the Healths of Coll. Molyneux and Coll. Townley and Lieutenant Coll. Gerrard (Sir William Gerrard 's Son, than Mr. Thomas Ducket a Relation of the said Mr. Standish drank a Health to the Lieutenant Colonel to Mr. Townley, this Informant asked who that was, the said Mr. Ducket replied, there he is pointing to the said Mr. Standish, which said Mr. Standish replied, yes for want of a better, or to that Purpose, and further said, he thought he might have been Lieutenant Colonel to Mr. William Molyneux, because their Acquaintance had been so great, but since he was not, he was satisfied with that Post under Coll. Townley. This Informant further deposeth, that the next day the said Lieutenant Colonel Standish, Mr. Thomas Ducket, one Dr. Worton and this Informant dined together at Standish-Hall, and the said Mr. Standish bid this Deponent take notice of the said Dr. Worton; for that he was, or was to be, Doctor to the Regiment, and after Dinner this Informant went to Preston, and the next day to Halton near Lancaster to the House of the said Christopher Carus, where was George Carus his Son, who was to be Cornet to that Troop, and there the said George Carus and this Informant did confult about procuring Men, and securing what Horses they could; but were to meddle with none until they had Orders from the late King James. And this Informant further deposeth, that about a Month after the said Christopher Carus who then was, and had been for some time, a Prisoner at Manchester, had leave to come to his own House at Halton, where this Informant met him, and there he told this Informant, that he had received a Letter from Mr. William Molyneux, which intimated, that he had disposed of the Lieutenant's Place, but he would provide as well for this Informant, whereupon this Informant finding himself to be at an uncertainty, went to the said Mr. Molyneux with Mr. Richard Woolfall of Highton, and then this Informant and the said Woolfall, went to Mr. Harrington's, being a Captain to Mr. Molyneux, who told this Informant that he had more than his Compliment, and the said Capt. Harrington named one Protestant, who this Informant knoweth not, who offered himself to be a Soldier; then this Informant said to the said Harrington, I hope you have not told him, to which the said Harrington answered no, but said, that the said Protestant told him, that he knew that there was a Design on Foot, and that he would sooner serve under him the said Harrington than under any other Man; then the said Captain showed this Informant his fine Laces and said, that all his Arms were in a readiness, and that some of them were at Home and the rest at London; and he further said, he had twelve Pair of Gloves coming down, which he would give to the first twelve Men that came in to him, than the said Capt. Harrington and this Informant had Discourse of how many Troops Coll. Molyneuxes Regiment consisted; and the said Capt. Harrington told this Informant, how many there were, but this Informant cannot tell whether he said thirteen or fifteen. And the said Mr. Harrington named these Officers following, viz. Coll. William Molyneux, Lieutenant Coll. Gerrard, Capt. Penny, Capt. Robert Mobneux, Capt. Westby of Mobrick, Capt. Massey of Puddington, Capt. Harrington, Capt. Christopher Carus, all of Coll. Molyneux his Regiment, besides some Officers in Staffordshire, and several others engaged at London, and as for the Majors they were all to come out of Ireland: Then this Informant asked the said Harrington, who was his Lieutenant, he answered he was coming from London, and had rid in the late King James' Guards and was a good Soldier; this Informant further deposeth, that he hath frequently discoursed in the Company of Coll. Tildesley, Mr. Girlington, Mr. Richard Butler, Mr. Thomas Butler, Mr. Thomas Carus, Mr. Cole and Mr. Henry Butler, that the French designed Landing in Cornwall or thereabouts, and the English and Irish in Lancashire: And this Informant further deposeth, that before his going to Mr. Harrington as aforesaid, Mr. George Carus of Halton and this Informant designed to go for Ireland, to receive Orders from the late King James, and to bring them into England, for which purpose this Informant and the said Mr. Carus went to Mr. John Somers of Kirby Loynsdale, and desired him to go to Milthrope to provide a Vessel to carry them, and the said Mr. Carus went to Coll. Dalton to receive his Advice, who told the said Carus (as he said) that he would not have him go as yet, for that very lately there came a Messenger from King James, who brought Word that so soon as they heard of the Duke of Berwick's landing in Scotland, they might expect the said Kings landing in England, and desired his Friends to be in what Readiness they could.  
This Informant further deposeth, that some time after Mr. Christopher Carus sent his Son George Carus to the said Mr. Dalton who had a Commission, to desire him to provide for this Informant, because Mr. Molyneux had disposed of the Lieutenants Place which this Informant should have had, the said Mr. Dalton answered he would take care of this Informant, but desired this Informant should not come to his House for fear of Suspicion: And this Informant hath heard by the said Mr. George Carus, that Mr. Dalton had burnt his Commission for fear it should be found, and sent to Mr. Tildesley to do the same, who made answer, he would as soon burn himself, or Words to that effect.  
This Informant further deposeth, that Mr. Marsden a Protestant was one of our Companions, and he having a great Estate always protects Roman Catholics when there is Occasion: This Informant further deposeth, that Mr. Husband a Protestant, a Tradesman in Kirby-Lonsdale, sent to London for two Pair of Holster Caps and two Housing, for the use of the Roman Catholics, and hath always been very intimate with them.  
And this Informant further deposeth, that the List of Officers hereunto annexed, were to be under the late King James when ever he commanded them, as several of them declared to this Deponent; and as this Informant hath been told by others;  
R. Dodsworth. Jurat 16 die May 1690. Coram me, J. Holt.   

A LIST of those OFFICERS I know.  

Under Colonel Thomas Tildesley.  
LIEUTENANT Colonel Girlington a Protestant.  
Capt. Thomas Tildesley.  
Capt. Ralph Tildesley.  
Capt. Henry Butler.  
Capt. Richard Butler.  
Capt. Alexander Butler a Protestant.  
Capt. Thomas Carus.  
Lieut. William Westby.  
Mr. Goodwin the Priest was to raise a Troop at his own Charge, and to put in Officers.  
Lieut. George Carus of Sellet.  
Lieut. Thomas Butler.  
Cornet Knipe Protestant.  
Cornet Coale Protestant.   

Under Colonel Townley.  
Lieut. Coll. Standish.  
Capt. Bierley or Barlow.  
Cornet Woolfall.  
Quartermaster Ducket.   

Under Colonel Molyneux.  
Lieut. Coll. Gerrard, Son to Sir William Gerrard.  
Capt. Westby.  
Capt. Harrington.  
Capt. Molyneux.  
Capt. Massey.  
Capt. Penny.  
Capt. Carus Protestant.  
Lieut. Stanley.  
Lieut. Penalt or such like Name he lives in Wales and came into my Place.  
Cornet Carus.  
There is also one Coll. Tempest in Yorkshire.   
Under Coll. Dalton I know none.  
Several of these Officers I had it from their own Mouths, the others only by Hearsay.  
R. Dodsworth.   

The Information of Edward Brown of Langtree in the Parish of Standish and County of Lancaster.  
THIS Informant upon his Oath deposeth and saith, that about the beginning of the Year 1690, there came a Man to the House of William Standish of Standish-Hall in the County of Lancaster aforesaid Esq who went by the Name of Capt. Brathet, and this Informant was told, that he was sent by King James out of Ireland to consult with the Roman Catholic Gentlemen in Lancashire, about raising of Men and buying of Arms for the Service of the said King James, in order to bring him into England, and that there was then a Meeting of several Roman Catholic Gentlemen, to consult about the said Affair; and this Informant further saith, that about the same Time, there was a Man came to the said Standish-Hall, who went by the Name of Mr. Dodsworth, who (as this Informant was told, by the said Mr. Standish) was to have been an Officer in an Army designed to be raised for the Service of the late King James, but being disappointed of his said Officer's Place, he the said Dodsworth came to London, and made a Discovery of the Design to the Parliament.  
And this Deponent further saith, that in, or about, the Month of May 1691, he this Deponent, bought six Case of Pistols of one Elizabeth Small Widow, who lived near Warrington in the said County of Lancaster, and who at the said Time had three Case of Pistols more, and three Carbines, which this Deponent would have bought of her, but she said, they were bought and paid for before, saying, she had sold one Case of the said Pistols and one Carbine, to one Richard Booth of Ouston near the said Warrington; and further said, that she had great Quantities of Arms a little before, but had lately sold them; and this Informant enquiring of her where she bought the said Arms, she told him at Liverpool, and this Informant paid her seven Pounds for the said six Pair of Pistols, which he bought of her, which Money he received from the said M●. Standish of Standish Hall, who about a Month before had givin him the said Sum, to buy Arms with: And further saith, that as he was carrying of the said six Case of Pistols, which he bought as aforesaid, the Bag which they were put in burst, he this Informant thereupon went to one Edward Brown of Round Moor in the said Parish of Standish, who lent him another Bag and saw the said Pistols put therein, after which, this Informant delivered the same into the said Mr. Standish's own Hands, Thomas Hatton and John sharp (two of the said Mr. Standish's Servants) being then present, and the said Mr. Standish did at the same time Order this Informant to buy what Pistols and Carbines he could procure, and he should have Money for them, and the said Mr. Standish did then declare to this Informant, that if King James landed in England, there would be Men enough to take up the said Arms. And this Informant faith, that four Days after the Delivery of the said Arms as aforesaid, Mr. Townley of Townley in the said County of Lancaster and his Servant whose name is Nicholas Rigby, came to the said Standish-Hall, and had the aforesaid six Case of Postols delivered to him by the said Thomas Hatton, being packed up in a Box covered with Laurel, and one Thomas Fox a Servant to the said Mr. Standish, was appointed to go with the said Rigby, as a Guard to the said Mr. Townley's of Townley.  
And this Informant further saith, that about the Year 1691, or beginning of the Year 1692, there came to the said Standish-Hall, one who went by the Name of Mr. Green in public Company, but privately in the said Mr. Standish's Family was called Coll. Parker, who kept two Servants, his Gentleman who went by the Name of Gandy a Frenchman, and one Thomas Merrick his Groom; and further saith, that he hath several times seen in Company together at the said Standish Hall, the Lord Molyneuxes Son, Sir William Gerrard's eldest Son, William Dickinson of Wrightington Esq Mr. blundel of Crosby, Mr. Townley of Townley, the said Mr. Green (or Coll. Parker) the said Mr. Standish and divers others, and heard it discoursed amongst them, that they would all be ready upon King James 's landing in England, with Men and Arms to serve him. And this Informant further saith, that he knows John Womball very well, and hath seen him several times at Standish-Hall aforesaid, amongst the Gentlemen last mentioned, who seemed to be very familiar with him, and hath heard it discoursed at the said Standish-Hall, that the said Womball used frequently to carry Arms from London to the said Standish-Hall, for the Roman Catholic Gentlemen in Lancashire: And this Informant further saith, that the said John Sharp Servant to the said Mr. Standish, was employed by his said Master Standish and others, to list Men for the late King James 's Service, and the said Sharp in pursuance of his said Orders did List several Men for the said Service at Preston, Legh, Wiggan, the said Standish Town, and other Places, gave them one Shilling to each Man listing Money, and promised them half a Crown a Day, when they served under the respective Officers they were listed under, and the Men so listed used frequently to meet the said Sharp at the said Standish Town.  
And this Informant further saith, that about the 24th June 1695, one Roger Emer of Standish, told this Informant, that he had then in his Custody several Swords, Pistols and Saddles and two Kettle Drums, which Drums were brought to the said Emer by Thomas Smith of Park Brooke in the said Parish of Standish, all which Arms, Saddles and Kettle Drums were Mr. Standish's of Standish aforesaid, and removed from Standish-Hall, for fear of being seized by some of the King's Messengers, when the Lancashire Gentlemen were taken up about two Years since.  
And this Informant further saith, that in or about November last, a little after he had given in an Information before Coll. Kirby and two other of his Majesty's Justices of the Peace for the said County of Lancaster, the said John Sharp came to this Informant, who was then a Prisoner in Lancaster-Castle, and seemed to be very angry with him, and told this Informant, that he had discovered some of their Designs to a deal of Rogues, but before May last either the late King Jam's or some one else would come into England, and then this Informant and all the Rogues else should be cut off.  
And this Informant further saith, that in August 1695, at the Assizes then held at Lancaster-Castle, at which Assizes Mr. John Lunt, Wilson and Womball were tried upon an Information of Perjury; and this Informant seeing one Thomas Hatton in the said Castle-Yard a little before the said Trial, asked him how he thought the Trial would go: Who answered, that all Things would go very well, for that Sir John Fenwick (who as this Informant was told, was then in Lancashire) would take Care, that Lunt, Wilson and Womball should all be convicted of Perjury, and the Lancashire Gentlemen all cleared.  
And this Informant further saith, that within 3 or 4 Days after he had given in his Information before three Justices of the Peace, as aforesaid, there came to him into Lancaster-Castle (he being then a Prisoner there for Debt) one John Rigby an Inhabitant of the said Parish of Standish, and told this Informant, that the Gentlemen (naming no particular Person) had taken Care, that his Debts should be Paid, and be released out of Prison, provided he would go with him to such a private Place, as the Gentlemen would appoint, where this Informant, his Wife and Children might privately live out of the Way, and the Gentlemen would take Care, they should be well maintained, to the intent he might not be found by the Government, to justify what be had upon his Oath deposed in the said Information: And that he had brought a Horse for this Informant for that purpose, aforesaid.  
And this Informant further saith, that the said Rigby further told this Informant, that he had a Letter from one Mr. John Haddock a Rich Quaker in the said Standish Parish (who used to supply the said Mr. Standish and others, with several Sums of Money upon Purchase and Mortgages) to his Friend one Henry Coward, a Shopkeeper in Lancaster, the Purport of the Letter (as the said Rigby told this Informant) was to let Rigby have what Money he pleased, in order to give this Informant in case of his Acceptance of the gentlemen's said Offer, but this Informant denying to go with the said Rigby, who stayed three Days in Lancaster for the said purpose, within two Hours was immediately after his so denying, put in Fetters by the Gaoler of the said Lancaster-Castle that now is.  
And this Informant further saith, that in December 1694, when the Lancashire Conspiracy was under Examination before the House of Commons, he was sent for by the said Mr. Standish of Standish, who desired this Informant to go to London with some of his Servants, who were to be Evidence in the said Affair before the Parliament, to the intent he might Coroberate what they said: Withal telling this Informant, that he needed not be any ways afraid what he said in the House of Commons, in the said Matter; for that he was not to be upon his Oath.  
And this Informant further saith, that a little after the House of Commons sent a Messenger for the said Mr. Standish, he the said Standish told this Informant, that his Wife had given the said Messenger a Mare and Money, so that the said Messenger was returned to London without effecting his Message.  
Edward Brown.   

The Information of Mr. John Lunt, given the Fifteenth Day of June, 1694.  
THIS Informant upon his Oath saith, That when King James left the Kingdom upon the Arrival of the Prince of Orange, in the Year 1688, he this Informant went then immediately after him into France, and upon his Arrival at St. Germains, was introduced to kiss his (the said King James') Hand in his Closet, by the Lords Thomas and George Howard, that from thence he was about the beginning of March than next following, ordered with the rest of his Guards, to go for Dublin, that immediately upon his Arrival there about the latter end of May 1689, one Dr. Bromfeild came there also from England, expecting to meet his Majesty, and brought over with him an Account of the Condition and Readiness of his Friends the Papists and Jacobites there, but more particularly in London, Sussex and Kent, and in Staffordshire, Lancashire, Cheshire and Yorkshire, and from them all desired of his Majesty Commissions for the several Persons of Quality hereafter named, with Blanks for their Inferior Officers, which accordingly the late King caused immediately to be issued forth, both for England and Scotland. And because Bromfeild was so well known, and it might be dangerous for him to come back himself, he desired the King to advise of a proper Person or Persons, whom he might trust to bring them over and distribute them here in England, according to his Majesty's Orders; amongst others, he this Informant was recommended to him by my Lord Thomas Howard, who told him (the said King James) he would engage Life for Life for him this Informant, that he would not betray him in the Service, and that if he were taken would rather die upon the spot. Upon which this Informant was sent for to my Lord Melfort's Office, where he found my Lord Thomas Howard, Dr. Bromfeild and my Lord together in his Closet, whither he was carried to them, and then and there they asked this Informant, Whether he would venture to undertake to carry Declarations, Papers and Commissions, and other things for his Majesty's Service to England? They told him it was a hazardous thing, that he should think well of it, for if he should happen to be taken his Life was certainly gone; but if he would and did escape, be should be sure of (and they promised him in the King's Name) very great Preferments, and Rewards, when the King should come into England. Upon which he this Informant undertook it, and my Lord Melfort gave an Account of it; whereupon to blind the business, and to take off any Thought of his this Informant's being employed or sent any where, my Lord Melfort told him, the King had thought fit to order the Officer of the Guards (who was a Frenchman) to cashier him, and that he might say to any one that asked him the reason, that he knew none, but was resolved to get his Pass as soon as he could, and go for England. About a Week after this, all things were got ready both for England and Scotland, and one Mr. Thrillfall of the Ashes in Goosner in Lancashire Gentleman, and this Informant were dispatched for England, and one Mr. Gourdon (who was this Informant's Comrade, and cashiered as he was) went for Scotland. This Informant and Mr. Thrillfall brought with them Declarations, Commissions and other Papers, and Landed at Cockram within four Miles of Lancaster, in or about the beginning of June 1689, upon our Landing we had like to have been wholly surprised by some Custom house Officers, but we escaped and brought off the most Material of our Business, only lost some Commissions, Blanks and one of the King's Declarations, two Case of Pistols of this Informants, that the King gave him, and some Clothes of this Informant's, etc. The greatest part of the Commissions and most of the Blanks in several Bundies were saved; and this Informant delivered them as fast as he could one after another as followeth, viz. in Lancashire.  
To my Lord Molyneuxes Son William a Colonel's Commission for a Regiment of Horse, with Blanks for all his Inferior Officers to be filled as he should think fit.  
To Thomas Tildesley Esq the like for a Regiment of Dragoons.  
To— Dalton of Thurnham, Esq the like for Dragoons.  
To— Sherbourn of Stonyhurst Esq the like for Horse.  
To— Townley of Townley Esq the like for Horse.  
To— Girlington of Girlington Esq a Colonel's Commission.  
To— Westby of Mobrick Esq the like for Dragoons.  
This Informant farther saith, that he delivered my Lord Molyneux himself a Paper of Instructions, where amongst other things, He was to be Governor of Liverpool; and this Informant took notice of it, because my Lord Melfort, and Dr. Bromfeild both told him, this Informant saw and shown it him in the Paper before they Sealed it. 
Cheshire.   
To Peter Legh of Lime Esq a Colonel's Commission, with Blanks for his Inferior Officers.  
To Sir Thomas Stanley of Aldersley, 
Protestant.  the like for Horse.  
To Mr. Chumley of Vale-Royal, 
Protestant.  the like for Horse.  
To Sir Rowland Stanley, 
Protestant.  the like for Horse.  
To my Lord Brudenell a Colonel's Commission for Horse, with Blanks for his Inferior Officers.  
To Sir— Throgmorton, the like for Horse.  
This Informant farther saith, That to these two Gentlemen last above written, he delivered four other Colonel's Commissions for four Gentlemen, whose Names he was not to know, because (as he did then conceive) they were Protestants; for they told him this Informant, they were honest Gentlemen and Protestants.  
Besides all these before mentioned this Informant delivered to one Mr. Jackson in Castle-street near the  two Bundles of Commissions, with a King's Declaration, and two other Papers Sealed up with each with Orders to him to deliver one of them with a Declaration and Sealed Papers immediately to my Lord Griffin, and the other to Mr. W. Pen the Quaker, which this Informant supposes he did; for in his sight he took Coach, and said he would.  
And besides all these, which he this Informant so as aforesaid delivered, Mr. Thrillfall undertaken to deliver several Bundles of the same to several Gentlemen in Yorkshire.  
This Informant farther saith, That every Colonel had with his Commission Blanks for double his Inferior Officers, and that all the Colonels had the Liberty to raise Foot, Horse, or Dragoons; but Horse was more especially recommended.  
This Informant farther saith, That after the dispatch of these Commissions, and other Business, he had the ill luck to be made a Prisoner for a considerable time upon the Accusation of the Captain that brought him over out of Ireland.  
This Informant farther saith, That during the time he was a Prisoner under Bail, that is to say, about the beginning of the year 1691, he this Informant by the Order of Colonel Tildesley, Col. Townley, Col. William Molyneux, Mr. Gerrard, Col. Dalton and others, Listed in London several Men for Soldiers to serve as Horse or Dragoons, to be under the Command of the said Colonels, or any other as they should dispose of them to.  
Here he names about a hundred of the Soldiers Listed, and the Pay they was to receive.  
This Informant farther saith, That being discharged of his Imprisonment in the Month of November 1691, he this Informant was desired by several of the Gentlemen, that he had delivered of the Commissions aforesaid to, viz. Lord Molyneux, Col. Molyneux his Son, Sir William Gerrard and his Son, Mr. Dickinson of Wrightington, John Harrington of Heightonhay, Esq Col. Townley, Col. Tildesley, Col. Dalton, and others, to go into France to give King James an Account in what condition they were, and to bring his Majesty's Commands, how they might be serviceable to him, which this Informant did, and gave his Majesty the said Account. He the said King James commanded him to return for England, and then amongst other things, that he this Informant should tell them from him that he did not doubt but in the Spring following to be in a condition to come for England; And at this Informant's coming away, he was ordered by my Lord Melfort himself to go to Captain Griffith in the , as soon as he this Informant should come to London, and deliver him the said Griffith a Paper from his Lordship, it was Sealed, this Informant did not know what it was, and to advise and receive Orders from him the said Captain Griffith. This Informant saith, that he arrived in London about the latter end of December 1691, and that he went immediately to Captain Griffith, and delivered him the said Paper, and that the said Griffith read the said Paper, and told him this Informant, he did not question but this Business, meaning that in the Paper, mentioned, as this Informant then supposed, will be accomplished in a little time, and then he disclosed to this Informant what it was he meant, which was the cutting off of the Prince of Orange at some proper time when he was a Hunting; and then he put it to this Informant, Whether he was willing to make one, and be concerned in it. This Informant first desired to know the Persons engaged in it. He the said Griffith then told him, he was not to tell him their Names, but he would at any time bring this Informant into the Company of several of them that were engaged in it, and about two days after this Informant came to him again and went with him into the Company of several Gentlemen at the Queens-head in White-Hart-Yard in the Strand, where, and with whom, the said Captain Griffith and this Informant discoursed the Method of doing it, and all agreed, it was to be the easiest done when he should be a hunting, or some time late when he went to, or come from, Kensington.  
This Informant saith, there was in Company at that time about Nine or Ten, three or four, or more of them this Informant knew, three of which are since dead. Captain Griffith then told this Informant and the Company, he had about Sixty brave Fellows engaged in the Business, who he did not at all doubt but would one way or other effect it. Several of the principal of them, as Whitney the Highway Man, and several others happened to be sometimes after taken and secured, which was the only reason that this Informant knows of, that it was not attempted.  
This Informant farther saith, That about the same time abovesaid, that he this Informant came last out of France, viz. about the latter end of December 1691, there came several English Gentlemen of Quality, viz. Lord Stafford, Mr. Stafford, Col. Parker, Col. Walmesley, a French Lieutenant-General, whose Name this Informant doth not remember, and others with Commissions, Declarations, Grants and Patents for themselves and others, and for their Inferior Officers from King James.  
This Informant farther saith, that in the Months of March and April 1692, he this Informant was employed by, and assisting to, several private Gentlemen and Tradesmen in or about London to list Men, buy Horses, Arms and Saddles, and that the said Men, Horses and Arms, were to be employed in the Service of the late King James.  
And this Informant farther saith, That by the Defeat of the French Fleet their design of Rising being wholly disappointed, they fell upon other measures, and this Informant remained in several Parts of this Kingdom, and was at several of the like Meetings as aforesaid, until the last Summer, and then about July 1693, was desired with some others to go to France by several of the Gentlemen, that this Informant has before mentioned, to have delivered Commissions to in Lancashire, that is to say, by my Lord Molyneux, Col. Molyneux, Sir William Gerrard, Mr. Gerrard, Mr. Standish, Mr. Dickinson, Col. Townley, and several others of that Country to give the King an Account of the Condition they were in, and to bring them back an Account of what hopes, and when he thought he should be in a condition to come for England; and this Informant went accordingly to St. Germains, and spoke with the King, and delivered him what he had in charge from the Gentlemen in England, and my Lord Melfort, being at that time with the King in his Closet, bid him this Informant go to Captain Griffith, who was then at St. Germains; the Captain ordered him this Informant to speak with Dr. Bromfeild, who told him this Informant when he came to him, that if he would undertake to carry a Signet with him into England, and show it to such Persons as he would direct him this Informant to, that were concerned in a Design, and would engage to make one with them in the same, he this Informant should receive the same Reward that was intended for them; which design he then told him this Informant, was to cut off the Prince of Orange by any such way or means that the Undertakers amongst themselves, when they came together, should agree upon: Whereupon he this Informant promised and engaged to them the said Bromfeild and Griffith to make one in the Business; and was then forthwith dispatched with the Signet, and other Matters for England; where he arrived and landed at Dover in December last, and there he this Informant met with those, that the said Dr. Bromfeild and Captain Griffith had directed him to, which were, viz. Captain Nowell, Captain Walton, Mr. Pepper, Mr. Preston and Captain Roberts, who were in the Design of cutting off the Prince of Orange, as this Informant was told; and that there were in all Sixteen Persons concerned, but there he this Informant met Four of them only, who were as followeth, Captain Nowell, Sergeant of the Admiralty, and one of the Principal Gunners, as this Informant was told, who told him this Informant, He had his Son and two more ready for the occasion; Captain Walton of Foulston, a Custom house Officer there, who told him this Informant, he had Six more engaged in the Business, who with us together, he said, Walton was very confident might in a Month or two's time do the Business effectually with little hazard. Mr. Pepper of Dover, a Custom house Officer as this Informant was told, or some place there worth about Three hundred Pounds per Annum, and Mr. Preston of Feversham, one of the Militia Officers were the other Two of the Four before mentioned.  
This Informant farther saith, That the said Dr. Bromfeild and Captain Griffith did order this Informant to assure the said Nowell, Walton, Pepper and Preston from them, and in the King's Name, that every one concerned in the Action should have the Reward of Five hundred Pounds per Annum each, which was the same made to him at St. Germains by the said Dr. Bromfeild and Captain Griffith; and my Lord Melfort told him this Informant, after he had kissed the King's hand, and was coming down Stairs, That if the Design that Griffith and Bromfeild had engaged him this Informant in, took effect, the King would soon be in England.  
Upon this he this Informant came for England, and in travelling, being somewhat troubled in his thoughts with what he had undertaken, he called upon several Priests that were his Friends and Acquaintance (and Relations) in France, as he came along, and did, tho' not in plain terms, acquaint them with what he this Informant was engaged in, some were positively against it as damnable, and others for it as meritorious, which difference amongst them gave him this Informant more disturbance; so that as soon as he came into England he resolved not to be one in it, and to prevent it, if he could; but this Informant did not resolve then to discover it, until he was persuaded thereunto by a 
Taffe.  Friend, by whom after he had often times discoursed the Matter with him, he this Informant was at length prevailed with to discover it.  
This Informant further saith, that being at Sr. Germains in the Months of October and November 1693, the Lord Melfort, Capt. Griffith and some others then told him this Informant, that there was a Design laid by their Friends the Protestants, engaged with the Roman Catholics there for the seizing the Tower of London, Tilbury Fort, Sherness, the Ports and Coasts, etc. the Manner, viz. That some of the Officers within the Tower, who were sure and firm to King James' Interest, whose Names this Informant knoweth not, they being kept as a Secret to the Chiefs, only were to be ready to receive several Gentlemen and others that were to pass as private Persons, some in the Habit of private Gentlemen, with good private Arms, others with the same Habit as the Horse Guards do wear, and others in the Habit of Foot-Soldiers all armed accordingly, and some like plain Countrymen, until there was a sufficient Number with the help of those within, to have secured the Gate and Brig, when on a Signal given, those without, who were in great Numbers to have been lodged about the Tower-Hill, St. Katherine's, East-Smithfield, Thamesstreet and Places adjacent, a great many that were to be walking carelessly about the Gates and upon the Wharf provided for that Purpose, who were to have made to the Gates, secured the Guns and all within, by cutting them off, and making them Prisoners; and for Tilbury Fort by the help of some within much after the same Manner, and that for Sherness, they did not doubt but to have secured by some Officers of the Fleet, and for the Ports of Dover and Foulston and the Coast upon Rumney Mash, those they said were undertaken to be made theirs by those Officers of King William, that this Informant hath named above, viz. Nowell and the rest, with the Correspodents they pretended to have in those Parts, and that Hull also, and all those Parts in the North, were at the same time provided for in the like Manner.  
This Informant farther saith, that some time after his Arrival at London, which was in December 1693, he was at a Meeting at the Queen's Head in white Hart-Yard in the Strand, where was the Lord Griffin, the Lord Baltimore, the Lord F— was gone before this Informant came there, the rest this Informant saw there, and Capt. Tozier, Mr. Whitefield, Mr. Tasbrough, Mr. Kingsley and some other Gentlemen, told this Informant, they had consulted and agreed of the Method abovesaid, with those Lords, for the securing the Tower and the other Places, and that there would be no doubt of accomplishing it, etc. with a great deal of case, but still, that they the said Lords and Gentlemen had a great dependence and assurance from those Gentlemen and others in Commission as aforesaid; for that they were well assured they had an Army listed and Officered and ready well Armed and Accoutred at all Points at twenty four Hours warning, to the Number of at least thirty Thousand Horse, Foot and Dragoons in the North Parts, besides those here, in and about London and Parts adjacent, which were under the Command, Care and Conduct of Lord Fe***m, Lord Griffin, Coll. Griffin his Son, Col. Porter, Col. Holman, Coll. Sir William Go**g, Coll. Bernard H**d, Coll. T**n, Lieut. Coll. B*ss and some others.  
This Informant farther saith, that in March last, about the middle or latter end of that Month, he this Informant was at a Meeting, at my Lord Str— is of about twelve or sixteen Protestant and Popish Gentlemen, some of which this Informant knew, as Mr. Basteen of Dover, Capt. Roberts, Dr. Clark, Mr. Lee, Capt.— that lives two Miles from Sir Bazill Dixwells. The Meeting was to consider and agree to be all ready for securing that Country and the Ports and Coasts there, upon any Occasion for the Kings Landing or otherwise, and to compute what their Strength they might depend upon might amount unto, and it was then agreed amongst themselves, that they had between five and six thousand Men well Armed and Disciplined, besides what they might reasonably expect would come in upon their rising, whose Numbers they did not doubt would be very considerable.  
This Informant further saith, that in his frequent passing to and again from the Ports, to and from London at his Inn in Rochester, kept by one Alderman Cross of that City, he was well known to him the said Cross, who several Times and Nights that he has lain in his House, did introduce him this Informant into the Company of several Commanders, who being by him the said Cross satisfied what this Informant was, were extremely civil and kind to this Informant, entertaining him and inviteing him Aboard their Ships and otherways.  
And this Informant saith, that in December last, he did bring from my Lord Melfort, a Paper sealed to that Innkeeper, this Informant did not see what was in it, but he the said Cross told this Informant, that it was for some honest Gentlemen that did belong to the Sea.  
This Informant further saith, that about six Weeks since Capt. Tozier and Mr. Kingsley, a Gentleman that then lately came from St. Germains, told him this Informant, Mr. Whitfield and another, Mr. Kingsley being present, that since there was an Account given there, that the late Kentish Design upon the Life of King William, was by some Traitor or other prevented; it was there resolved to try another way upon him in Flanders, which was by causing several resolved Gentlemen and others of the English, Scotch and Irish Nations, and some French of seeming Quality, to desert from the French Army in Flanders as early this Campaign as they could, that would undertake to watch and take the first Opportunity they could in their several Posts, to attempt upon his Life.  
This Informant further saith, that he is very sure, that he this Informant can point to, and carry and Body, to the very Place, some he believes in or near the Town, but more particularly in several Parts of Yorkshire, Lancashire, Staffordshire and Cheshire, where there were, and this Informant is very confident yet are, lodged, secured and kept great Quantities of Arms and Warlike Equipage of all Sorts, with great Numbers of Horses fit for Service. And this Informant saith, that if he were Authorized and Impower'd thereunto, he this Informant would undertake to Seize and Secure them.   

The Examination of John Kelly taken upon Oath the 23. and 27. days of February.  
THIS Informant saith, that he came over to England in the Irish Army about Michaelmas last was twelve Months, since which time he hath wandered up and down from one gentlemen's House to another, and was entertained in the Lord Molyneuxes House about twelve Days before Christmas, during which time he was there, he saw a Letter from Queen Mary which came from St. Germaint, directed to the young Lord Molyneux, which Letter this Informant heard read, the Contents of which Letter was that with good Hopes of the Encouragement they had from other Countries, and that the Queen had got from the French King a Grant of assisting them with Arms, to the Number of eight or nine Thousand as near as he remembereth; and my Lord Molyneux on receipt of this Letter, sent to several Saddlers to prepare Saddles, Bridles and Holsters, and as fast as they were made, this Informant saith, they were conveyed to secret Places under Ground: And farther this Informant saith, That he was at the House of one Esq Tildesley at a Place called the Lodge, in Lancashire near to a Town called Preston, where he saw many Commissions which came from King James out of Ireland, which said Commissions were to raise two Regiments of Horse and three of Foot, which Regiments were to be at an hours warning when King James sent any Assistance out of Ireland into England, or when King William should go into Scotland, one of which Regiments of Horse was to be Commanded by the young Lord Molyneux, another Regiment of Horse was to be Commanded by Esq Townley of Townley in Lancashire aforesaid, one other Regiment of Foot, was to be Commanded by Mr. Standish of Standish Hall in Lancashire aforesaid, and the other Regiment of Foot was to be Commanded by Sir James Pool of Pool Hall within six Miles of West-Chester: And this Informant farther saith, that Mr. Standish sent one Lieut. Burke from his House with Letters to King James into Ireland, who gave the said Lieut. Burke forty Guinea's, which this Informant saw delivered to the said Lieut, Burke, which said Letters were sent immediately after the Receipt of the said Commissions from Ireland. And farther this Informant says, he was sent by the Lord Molyneux with a Letter to my Lord I**t of I**t-Hall aforesaid, and also he was sent with several other Letters from Place to Place to several other Gentlemen, the Contents of which Letters this Informant believes, was to be in a Readiness for the rising aforesaid, and they were to repair to the Castle of Liverpool, which they did conceive might easily be surprised, where were many Barrels of Gun Powder and Arms, that so thereby they might be furnished with Ammunition and Arms; and further this Informant saith, that he was sent now and then a Foot, and then a Horseback from one Gentleman to another, who were Confederates, and was kindly received by all with Plenty of Provisions and Money; and further this Informant says, he knew several other Persons sent upon the same-occasion; and further this Informant says, that he himself does know Irish Soldiers to the Number of five Hundred, now lying in Lancashire, which lie to be ready at an hours warning, if there should be any Insurrection to assist King James. And this Informant saith, Mr. Thomas Tatlock of Symons-Wood, near the Parish of Sefton in Lancashire, did for near a Month together, harbour about three Score Irish Men, who had served King James, and were then listed under other Gentlemen to serve King James again, and that Arms and Furniture for them-were hid in that Wood  
He further saith, that Mr. Molyneux of Morbrow, did harbour about twenty Irish Men for the Service of King James, and that Arms, Saddles, Bridles and Holsters for them were concealed in a Cellar under a Tower at the Entry of the House at Mr. blundel of Inch in the Parish of Sefton. That John Holland of Prescot and his Partner made Saddles, Bridles and Holsters for them, and was privy to the Design, and that a Saddler in Legh was employed by the Popish Gentlemen for that Service. That all the Officers and Soldiers were to be ready at the Time they should have Notice from King James from Ireland. That Arms, Saddles, Bridles, Holsters, etc. were also hid in Cellars and under Ground, in the Parish of Prescot and Parish of Legh and other Parishes, by Gentlemen and the Saddlers that live there.  
J. Kelly. Taken and Sworn this 27. Febr. before us whose Names are here under Written. 

Thomas Yarnold Mayor of Evesham, Bellemont,  
James Rushout,  
William Bromley,  
Edmund Letchmore,  
Richard Dodswell.     

Mr. William Wybrants Information.  
ABOUT the Time when the Lancashire Gentlemen were brought Prisoners to Town, I met Mr. Taffe, I told him I met Capt. Cottingham, who hoped that you were not concerned in the Plot, especially against Mr. Legh of Lime; for he heard he was a very honest Gentleman, after which Mr. Taffe pressed me two or three Times to speak to Capt. Cottingham, if he could bring him acquainted with any Friend of Mr. Legh of Limbs, some time after I met him in the Temple, where he told me he was mightily disgusted, for that Mr. Baker and Mr. Smith who was then walking in the Temple, did use him barbarously, for they would not give him any Money, not so much as would pay his Horse-hire into the Country, but he would be even with them and spoil the Plot, and several Words to that effect, I asked him to be Ingenious with me, and tell me whether he was concerned in the Plot, for I heard it would come to nothing. He told me he was no Evidence nor known any thing of the Plot: But he knew there were very good Evidence, and enough to hang them all; and immediately afterward he asked me whether I could help him to a Friend of Mr. Legh of Lime; for he was in the Tower, and there was no getting to speak to him, but if he could get to speak to a particular Friend of his, he could make his Fortime, and get a good Sum of Money by it, for he could put them in a way to save their Lives: I asked him how could that be, when just before he told me the Evidence was Good, and enough to hang them all; he answered that was no Matter, for he could contrive a way: But when he found I was not inclinable, he said, now I think on it, he would not be concerned in it, for it would look ill for him to be concerned against the Government, who had appeared so much for it.  
William Wybrant. Sworn before the Houses of Lords and Commons when the Plot was examined there.  
I can also aver, that when I was concerned as one of the Commissioners, for the forfeited Estates in several Counties of Ireland, he on Oath gave in his Name to be John Taffe; but since going into Ireland, and making Enquiry after him; there are several Hundreds that will make Affidavit, that his Name is Thomas O Mullen.  
William Wybrand.   

A Letter from Three of Their Majesty's Justices of the Peace for the County of Lancaster, Dated at Middleton, April 9 1690, and directed to a Minister of State.  
My LORD,  
WE have received your Lordships of the Fifth Instant, and make bold to acquaint you that at the same time that we sent out our Warrants for Byra●, Burton, Boardman and Ellam, (who are now in Lancaster Castle) we did also send our Warrants for apprehending of Mr. Molyneux, Mr. Standish, young Townly, John Holland, Edward his Partner, and Mr. Blundel of Ince, for High Treason, and ordered them to be carried to Lancaster Castle, but none of the last mentioned Persons can as yet be apprehended, as we are informed, though searched for, and will still be searched for with what diligence we can; we indeed much question the apprehending most of them, they having been searched for by the Militia for mear Twelve Months past, and have notwithstanding so concealed themselves in this County or elsewhere, that they could never yet be apprehended. We have also sent out our Warrants for many of the Persons mentioned in Kelly's Information for High Treason, which are judged by us to be dangerous Papists; and also against others to bind them to the Assizes, who are not positively charged with High Treason in the Examinations, and upon apprehending any of the Great Ones, We shall impart the same to your Lordship, and in all things demonstrate our willingness to be Serviceable to Their Majesties and their Government to our Power; and to approve ourselves,  
Middleton, Apr. 9th. 1690. My Lord, Your Lordship's most Faithful and Obedient Servants, 

Ralph Ashton.  
Jos. Horton.  
Jos. Yates.     

A Letter from May 
Melfort.  to Clinch 
Crosby. , Dated March 30. 1694, and should have been inserted in the Body of the History after Crosby's Scheme for the Invasion, Page 97. at the End of the first Paragraph.  
MR. Crosby, having now Collected the Sentiments of the whole Party, is, by the late King James' Order commanded to hasten into France with the Scheme before recited, as appears by the following Letter from the Lord Melfort, Dated March 30. 1694.  
SIR,  
The Affair you went about being near done, it is Mr. Kemp 's 
K. James.  positive Order, that you return immediately hither, that he may consider what further will be fit for him to do upon such Information as you can give him, which he desires may be as full as you can get them. I shall be glad to see you: And am,  
SIR. Your most Affectionate Servant, Ja. May.   

A Letter to Mr. Crothy while he was a Prisoner in Newgate, directed to Mr. Hutchinson in Bishop's Gate-Street London.  
'TIS impossible to express the great 〈…〉 are in here upon the Notice of your Person and your Papers falling into the Hands of our Enemies. Mr. Vandeleur 
King James and his Queen.  and Mrs. Kemp are so sensibly afflicted with it, they refuse all Comfort, and almost despair of Success in any Attempt for the Future, Elizabeth Franklin 
French Court.  reads our Discontents in our Faces, though we don't declare our. Misfortunes by our Words, for fear they should quite desert us, seeing we are betrayed in all our Projects: And truly such a Blow was never given to our Manufactory as this, that at once has discovered the Secrets of our Trade and confined the best of all our Factors. We have now but one Project more left, and if that miscarry also, we must give up our Hopes of supplanting the Interlopers, and wait with Patience till they ruin themselves by dividing their Interests and their Stock●, in setting up for themselves singly, as they have once done already. All Care here shall be taken to supply your Wants, and our Friends with you, must use all endeavours to delay your Audit, for in that particular lie our Hopes and your Safety, God Almighty Comfort you, and grant the hearty Wishes of  
SIR, your, etc. J. M. Dated August 12. 1694. and directed to Mr. Clynch under Mr. Hutchinsons' Cover.    

Having now I hope sufficiently Proved what I promised in the Preface, and showed my Vouchers for all I have related in the Body of the History: I thought fit before I take my leave of the Reader, to acquaint him: That if this Undertaking gives Satisfaction to the Public, another Volume of the most secret Intrigues and Letters of Correspondence between our English Jacobites and those at St. Germains, and other Places, shall speedily be Printed and put into his Hands, as the best Answer (I could think of) to the Argument against a standing-Army.  
FINIS.   

ERRATA.  
PAg. 4. Lin. 11. instead of preswasions read persuasions p. 64. the last lin. for come r. came One of Mr. Crosby's Letters which should have been inserted at the bottom of pag. 97. being omitted by the Printer is put in the last Page of the Appendix. Pag. 119. in the Margin for depition r. deposition. P. 145. l. 11. after more r. to. p. 207. l. 18, for next r. Rest. In the Appendix, p. 225. last line for Cyre r. Eyre. P. 254. l. 15. for Mneoy read Memory. P. 255. last lin. after he r. the.