MILTONS' REPUBLICAN-LETTERS OR A Collection of such as were written by Command of the LATE COMMONWEALTH OF ENGLAND; from the Year 1648. to the Year 1659.  
Originally writ by the learned JOHN MILTON, Seecrtary to those times, and now translated into English, by a Wellwisher of England's honour.  
Printed in the Year 1682.   

Courteous Reader  
WHEN these following Letters came first to my hand in Latin, I began to question with myself whether the usurpatious proceedings of their authors had not rather fitted them for the fire, then reading. But considering that whatever their proceedings, previous to their obtaining the Government, might be, that, when obtained, the support thereof obliged them to consult the inclinations of the people, and square their actions by the most honourable of their humours: I adventured, and in their peruseall found the true Spirit of the English Nation so livelyly displayed, that I was not only glad I was swayed to their reading, but Resolved for the common benefit of my Country, to translate them into English; that they might see how Zealous our predecessors have been in ascertaining and maintaining the liberty & property both of the Civil, and religious Rights, not only of themselves, but also their Allies & Confederates, whensoever invaded, though by the most potent of their Enemies. And of what necessity they then found a protestaut Union to be, may easily be guest at by their continued Cares and endeavours for the obtaining and strengthening the same both at home and abroad. And in what degree of honour our Nation must then have stood, when their Resolutions were a Balance to the actions of Europe? Nor will it be unworthy of Consideration, that so far was the french King then from daring to offer such violence to his Protestant Subjects, as of Late he hath, that he, at our Desire, became Mediator with the Duke of Savoy, on behalse of his; Whom that Prince for their close adherence to the Reformed Religion hath so barbarou●…y butchered. Et Readily Disclaim●…d the a●…ions of such of his Forces as were Co-acters in that Cruelty as done without his consent or privity. Neither rested he ●…ere▪ but vudertooke with that Prince for the future fidelity and obedience to Government of those persecuted people.  
Now, that the consider aeion of these things may stir up ●… Zeal in every individual Englishman, to be, so far as in his station he legally may, an augmentor or at least a Pre●…erver of those Libertyes, Privileges, and honours, which our worthily Ren●…ned Predecessors transmitted to 〈◊〉, Not only to secure us in a happy enjoyment of our Lives and propertyes; but also in Trust for the Generations unborn. And in what dishonerable Characters those our Posteritys will be enforced to write our memory, if we prove so faithless in our Trust▪ as to leave them only ●… bare Report of▪ what our Progenitors have purchased for us and them, and, to their irreparable wrong, and our Everlasting Infamy, ●…ave imbezilled; is that which no true English ●…eart, ●…ut must tremble at the very thought of.  
Fare well.   

LETTERS From the COMMONWEALTH of ENGLAND, To foreign Princes, etc.  
The Parliament, & People of England, to the most Noble Senate, and Corporation of Hamburgh greeting.  
WE do unanimously acknowledge the antiquity of, and shall be 〈◊〉 willing also to revive the Correspondence, which has been, upon several good inducement●…, erected and established by our Praedecessours, and to this day continued between this Government, and your most noble Corporation. And having by yours of the 25. of June understood of some alteration in the comportment of some of our people, who do not, it seems, behave themselves with that punctualyty and integrity they formerly did among you, we did immediately thereupon truly consult with some Persons of judgement in the point▪ whom we charged to inquire, narrowly among the Clothiers and the rest of the people concerned in that manufacture; assureing you withal, our further car●… such to be, as may render you sensible of all our genuine inclination and affection towards you. But some thing also there appears, which not on●…ly we, but equity and ●…ason itself calls for from you, and that is, that some care, Suitable to the dignity of your City, be taken of the security of the Privileges, Lives, and ●…ortunes of such of our Merchants as are present Liver●… a●…ong you. Which as it has been the main purport of our former letters, so the d●…yly complaints broug●…t us on behalf of the said Merchants and Estates; (all at stake) render it necessary, that this repetition of the said Letter of ours, be looked upon as coming with suitable earnestness: For albeit they seem to own the receipt of some Ease, (as to time) from our former interposition on ●…heir behalf; and a proportionable Breathing from the offensive villainy of their Enemies, yet, since th●… arriv●…le of Cochrane (of whom our former complaints made mention) who pretends I know not what of an Embassy from Charles the Son of the late decea●…ed King, they seem to complain of the want of that protection, which they were formerly won●… to receive, upon demand made t●…erof against some late indecencies, and mortal assaul●…s made upon them. And that to such adegree that when one or more of the said Merchants, together with the Governor of the Company himself, were, by fraud, seduced on board a certain Privateer and thereupon applying to you for relief, they were died, so that the Merchants themselves were by force of arms constrained (not without hazard of their lives) to rescue their friends from out of the hands of their Enemies, and that at your very door. Whom when by good fortune they brought home, and as if it were r●…cued from slavery thro' mere strength, and delivered t●…e Pira●…s alsoe into custody, ●…uch has been the insolent p●…oceedings of that vagabond and Rebel Cochrane▪ we understand, as to require not only the discharge of the said Rovers, but the surrender of the said Merchants as his Prisoners. We therefore with all earnestness pray and desire, that if you are such as you ●…eeme to be, inclinable to the inviolable support of those contracts, alliances, and commerce for along time observed be●…ween us, our people may be at some certainty to be at length relied upon, in your faith, prudence, and authority, and that in Order thereto you he prevailed with to assign them afair hearing in reference as well to Cochrane and Party concerned in this fact, as such also as were concerned in the yet un-accounted for affront tendered the Curate, whom we exp●…ct you would see Right done unto; by exposeing to prosecution, and seeing brought to condign punishment, those that abetted in that assault, or expelling them your ●…urisdiction▪ and do not think, that people under their circumstances, and banished like Tarquins, are preferable to the amity and power of England. For if you do think fit to suffer our Enemies to practise what they list upon our Merchants in your City, consider among yourselves how unsafeand dishonourable it may be for them to continue an●… longer among you. All which we refer to your prudence and equity; recommendnig yourselves, in the mean time, to the divine Deity. Adieu.  
Westminster dated August 10. 1649.  
To the Senate of Hamburgh.  
THE Experienxe which we have had of your integrity towards us, when our affairs lay under a declineing condition, gives us an assuran●… of the sincerity of your good will and affection to them now, at atime, when in a thriveing One. The determination of the War, and the Defeat of our Enemies on all hands, have been our inducements to judge nothing to be either more equitable, or more conduceing to the establishment of a firm peace, and settlement of public matters, then that those, who thro' God's guidance, and our means, have either attained to their liberty, or who by our Gift, and Grace, have out of the Broils of a Civil man, their lives and fortunes ●…ecured unto them, should on their part, if required, and that in a Solemn manner too testify unto us as their Governors a becomeing fealty and obedience; now espe●…ally, at a time, when so many turbulent Persons in enimity, and more than once taken into favours still continue their restless and perfidious practice of disturbing us both abroad, & at home, and sollicitting fresh Ones against us. We have therefore caused a certain Form of an Oath to be ●…ramed & expressly be be sworn unto by all such, who are to bear either public office, or enjoy the benefit of our Laws; such as peace, Tranquillity, or other the effects of a peaceable Being. Our care herein hath likewise extended to the forreige plantations, and where ever else our Merchants reside abroad upon the account of trade, in order to answer the conveniency and necessity of securing the fealty and allegiance of those whom we Govern Which heightens our admiration, when we reflect upon some tidings sent us from some of our Merchants living at Hamburgh, who write of theirbeing interrupted by some among you in their due obedience to our Commandment. The States of Holland a truly thinking, politic people in their Go●…ernment of aff●…ires, have judged it no way concerning them, 〈◊〉 strangers; namely, English obeyed their Magistrates at home in this or that Method; And for you to act contrarily is, we confess, a point we cannot get over. But it is not a charge which we impute to you, but rather reckon it as the ●…ffect either of a privatc design or fear of some who are reported to have been scared away from their al●…egiance unto us, by the insolent useage of some wandering and banished Scotchmeu. We●… do in the mean time pray and desire (not on behalf of Trade so much as that of the Commonwealth) that you ●…ill suffer none among you, here●…n concerned, to interfere under, any pretence whatever, or meddle with the exercise of our Gove●…ment over our people, as being an intrinsic Jurisdiction of our own without deferrence to any foreign pow●…r or authority whateve●…. For w●…o among yourselves would not resent any practice tending to the alienation of the allegiance of your people? Adieu.  
Dated January 4. 16●….  
To the King of Spain.  
ANThony Ascan, a man of Justice, Learning, and splendid family comes to your Majesty in our name upon a message tending, we hope, to the mutnall and common profit as well of Spain as this nation. We therefore desire that, as we are sincerely disposed to return a suitable acknowledgement npon occasion, you will according to custom vouchsafe him a fair, and peaceable admission to, and Retreat from year Court: But if otherwise inclined, to order him a speedy intimation thereof, with liberty to repair with safety where he shall think fit.  
Dated Eebruary the 4. 1649.  
Ditto.  
YOUR Majesty, nor any else, who have Inpartially pereused our public Edicts concerning this matter, can pretend ignorance of the present State of our affairs, and how we were necessitated to shake off oppression by takeing up Arms, rescuing our Liberty, and establishing the Form of Government which we now exercise. We truly look upon it as an easy task to justify our proceedings to all the world, in reference to our allegiance, equity and patience, nor ought we to under go the harsh Censures of any that are competent Judges, for asserting our own, and the Guard of our Authority, honour and dignity against the scandalous and infamous Barking of banished Wanderers. Now that which more particularly concerns the Interest of foreign Nations is this; our Enemies are dissipated and quelled, and we thereby, thro' God's assistance, arrived at a wonderful deliverance, and therefore do publicly and genuinly declare our readiness to embrace and enter into an alliance athing preferable to all (control, with our Neighbours: And previous thereto have deputed unto your Majesty Anthony Ascane a Person of known prudence and Integrity, in order to his treating with your Majesty on behalf of the usual alliance and correspondence between both Nations, or of entering into a new one if need be; Who we pray may have free access to your Majesty, and such furt●…er provision made for his safety and honour as is fitting, dureing the time of his abode with you under that character; Together with liberty freely, to make knownsuch matters as he hath in command from us to communicate to your Maj. for that they tend, we hope, to the mutual benefitof both Nations, Enableing him to return unto us the result of your sense of his said Errand.  
Dated at Westminster February 4. 1649.  
Ditto.  
YOUR Majesty has ere this we presume, understood from what we have already publicky exposed, the sundry mischiefs conveyed unto us fro●… an unfaithful peace, and the civil war that followed it; the low condition which we were brought under of suffering the commonwealth either to sink under its own burden, or altering, and that in a considerable degree, the Form of the Government. To which public Declarations if there be more weight applied, or credit given, as of right there ought to be, then to the most insolent calumnies of needy people, verily those persons who judge very uncharitably of our affairs abroad, might depe●…d upon far more moderate useage from ns. For to tax what ever we cheerfully contended for, in imitation of our ancessours' pnrsuant to our own Right, and the national liberty of England censeriously, argues ill breeding. But vow in reference to matters of community with other Nations, it is not our purpose to lessen, but rather promote and ratify all we can the alliance, and commerce usually observed by England with all other Nations what ever. And in as much as our Trade with your Kingdom may be considerable and suitably profitable to both, all becomeing care imaginable shall be by us taken to prevent the same's being impeded, or any way prejudiced. But yet all these our promises are but waste paper, while Pirates, and our Revolters are tolerated to lay violent hands upon, carry in into your Ports, and, as it is reported, expose to public sale at Lisbonemarket, our Merchant men and Goods loaded thereon. To your timely prevention of which practice, and to the end our desireof an alliance may appear more visible, we have sent your Majesty Charles Vane a very noble Gentleman under the figure of our Ambassador with Commands and Credential letter's testifiing our said Trust committed to his Care. And do therefore pray that your Maj. may be pleased to admit & hear him Courteously, and make all becomeing provision for his honour and safety thro' out the extent of your Empire. All which shall be kindly acknowledged by us from whom your Majesty may depend upon suitable returns when occasion shall seem to call for it.  
Dated at Westminster February 4. 1642.  
To the King of Spain.  
DAILY almost, and most lamentable complaints are brought us against certain Masters and Pilots, who being English men, and revolting from us the last year, carrying away villainously and treacherously, ships committed to their care as Masters, at length went off from that part in Ireland where they were all last sumer besieged, and have scarce escaped the reproof due to their wickedness, but they betake themselves to the port of Lisbon planting themselves at the mouth of the River. Tagis, where they exercise wi●…hout control, piracy upon all Eng●…ish Merchant men tradeing to and again thither infesting; and renderiug infamous by Robbers all the neighbouring, as well as the sea berdering upon the straits of Gibraeltaer. To the speedy prevention and removeall of which practice if there be not some sudden remedy applied, who cannot but discern the drooping decay of the great Trade now carried on between us and Portugal, and which intrinsically consist of vast advantage to both Nations. We therefore again and again pray, that you will forthwith Issue your commands for the speedy suppressing of our said Revolters, and Rebels, causeing them to be with all imaginlble speed rooted out and banished the Confines of Portugal; And if in case there be any false, conterfeited Ambassador resideing there from Charles Stuart, you vouchsafe him no hearing, or take any other notice of him, but rather look upon us as those to whom the Government of England is, thro' God's decree, descended, and that you would, not Suffer the River and port of Lisbon to be blocked up against a people who reckon the Interest of England and that of their yours as One.  
To the King of Spain.  
YOUR Majesties, and Don Alphonso de Codenas your Ambassador's Letters have demonstrated the quality and degree of your Majesty's resentment of the most wicked murder of our Ambassador Anthony Ascane, and what has been hitherto done, towards the punishment of those that are suspected to have had a hand in his death. Yet when we seriously consider upon that act, and that it removes and ●…estroyes the very foundation of entering into, or manteining a correspondence, when the Right of Ambassadors (most sacred among all Nations.) shall be found to suffer so great an affront, we cannot decline the repeating our instant Pressures unto your Majesty for due and speedy punishment to be exercised upon those Parricides, and that your will not suffer justice to be further suspended thro' any deferrence to, or Restraint of Religion. And albeit we very much admire the friendship of a most potent Prince, yet we reckon it a breach of our duty to spare any endeavours tending to the reduceing to just acknowledgement, the Authors of so great a Villainy  
We kindly thank your Majesty for that kindness which it has commanded to be shown our people in the Ports of Spain, and the great signification of your affection, received by the conveyance of your Ambassador; nor will it be less pleasant unto us to meet with an opportunity that may furnish us with a capacity of making you suitable returns. But if justice be further resoited (as we have for a long time sollicitted that it should not) we cannot apprehend any foundation to e●…ect a sincere and dureing alliauce upon, towards the support of which t●…ere shall not be however any honest occasion slipped on our parts, and are of opinion that the presence of an Ambassador from you here, may not contribute a little thereto.  
To the Spanish Ambassador  
THE Council of State have as soon ever as the other more weighty affairs of the Nation could permit them, presented the Parliament with the four memorials, which your Excellency gave in thereto upon the 21. of December last, and in answer to the first paragraph thereof relateing to the wicked Murder of Mr Ascane their late Ambassador are commanded to offer the following reply; viz.  
That the Parliament having so long, so often, and so justly called for Justice against the said persons, judge it an act of superfluity to add any further solicitation thereto, especially when as your Excelleu●…y well observed, his Majesties own honour was so much concerned to do it without importunity; and ●…thing which, if not complied with, will certainly defeat the foundation upon which humane society is erected. Nor can it be truly underastood by any argument borrowed from Religion, why innocent blood, basely drawn, ought not to be vindicated. Therefore the Parliament seems earnestly to require, and no less to depend upon an effectual compliance with their former Demands in reference to a thro' satisfaction to be given for the loss of their subject.  
To the most serene Prince LEOPOLD, Arch Duke of Austria, President to King PHILIP in Flanders.  
WHEN we were, not without great Clamour, made acquainted with the stealth of Jeane Puccheringam a maiden Gentlewoman of good extraction, plentiful fortune, and an heiress, who yet under age, and consequently the care of a Guardian, has been seized upon, not far from the place of her habitation at Greenwich, forced on board a vessel ready at hand for that purpose, and suddenly hurried away out of the hands and embraces of her friends, by the contrivance of one Walsh, who since used indirect means; such as the Terror of death &c. to fraught the wealthy girl into a marriage with him; We did immediately thereupon, previous to the stopping the success of a villainy foe cruel & un heard of, direct some persons to apply to the Governors of Newport & Oostend (to one of which two places she was reported to have been Snatched) on behalf of her freedom out of the hands of her Ravishers, who both acted suitable to persons of singular integrity, & upright dealings to wards the relief of the poor captive thus feloniously hurried from home; But she's, to escape (in the mean time) the violence of these villains, retreating unto a Nunnery as a sequestered person, the said Walsh, to force her thence, brings his action at Law in the spiritual Court at Ipre where in his declaration, he lays his claine to her by Contract of Marriage. Now in regard the Thief, and the Heiress are both our people, and that it, by good evidence, appears, that this outrage has been committed within our Dominion; and withal that the considerable Bait, being the Estate, which he mainly and originally gaped at, lies under our Jurisdiction; as also that the cognisance of the whole cause, and consequently its Judgement does in our opinion, properly belong to us alone; Let him repair hither with his claim, let him commence his Suit here, and make out the right he pretends unto her being his wife. This brings your Excellency in the mean time, an earnest Repetittion of what has been already very often pressed by our Envoy at brussels, that the afflicted and forlorn maiden, the honesty of her exactation, the surreptitious method wherein she was conveyed from out of her Country by theft, be prevalent Inducements to you to take care of her being in safety permitted to repair home. Which, not onelywe, (who if there be occasion for it, shall make a suitably ready expression of our aknowledgments, but even humanity and modesty itself, which ought to influence the disposition of all good and valiant men and engage them in the de●…nc of the honour & chastity of her sex, se●…me, with united petition, to call for.  
Dated at Westminster, March 28. 1650.  
To the most Serene Prince, JOHN, the IV. King of Portugal.  
THE consideration of your Majesty's honourable Reception of, and courteous speedy audience allowed unto our Ambassador, hath induced us to let you know by the quick dispatch o●… this our second, that we accept thereof very kindly, and that our purposes contain nothing more venerably to observe with deeds, as well as words, than the inviolable support (without we be first provoked to contrary dealings) of the peace, alliance, & commerce which we are engaged in with several Nations, and which among the rest, have been for a long time ratified between us, and Portugal. Nor has our fleet gone to the River Tagus upon any other different Errand, then barely to chastise our Enemies, (who will not be warned by the many Flights, which we so often already instructed them with the experience of) and rescue such effects of ours, as, being by force and Treachery taken away from our people, the Murrain of these Reb Ils has carried into your Ports and especially Lisbon itself, where they vend the proceed of their theft at open sale. But yet we are apt to believe that most of the peoole of Portugal have, by their depraved behaviours, discovered what sort of persons they are, how addicted to impudence, fury, and madness. The consideration of which strenghtens our confidence and hopes so much the more, of prevailing (in the first place) with your Majesty in favour of Edward Popham, a very worthy Gentlemen, whom we have appointed Commander in chief of this squadron; & sent for the overthrow of these Pirates; And that in the next place you would treat them, and their Commanders not as persons worthy of hospitality, but ●…heeves, not merchants, but the Bane of thrade and Breakers of national Laws, and consequently deny them admittance into, or shelter within the pro ection of your Kingdom, but rather banish them the limits thereof: But if you should think fit to be otherwise inclinable, that then we may be at liberty, to assault, r●…duce, and, at our ●…ngle charge, force them to thatdue subjection from which they have Renegadoes, and Rogues like revolted. Which as it has been the substance of our former pressing D●…es, so this comes to your Majesty as a repetition thereof, accompanied with no less fervency and Earnestness. In which, be your compliance the effect either of Justice, or compliment, it will not only advance and add to the Glory of your j●…stice in all other well governed Nations of the world, but oblige us and more particularly the people of England, before of no contrary disposition towards the people of Portngall, and your family in amore especial manner.  
Dated at Westminster Aprell 27. 1653.  
To the City of Hamburgh.  
Letter's have more than once interchangeably passed between us and you, concerning differences ariseing between Merchants, and some other matters also, which seemed more particularly to relate to, and touch the Dignity of our Republic. But in as much as we apprehend that such matters can be scarcetransacted by letters alone, and understanding of the refort of certain seditious Persons thither from Charles Stuart, whose Errands consist of nothing so much, as to practise wickedness and insolence in order to the defeating and ●…oly removeing the trade, which some of known affection to their Country drove with your City. Wherefore having appointed Richard Bradshaw a very noble and worthy Gentleman to go under the Character of our Envoy thither, to propose and transact such matter at Large, as equally concern the joint advantage of both Republics and that in pursuance of our Commssiion and subsequent Instructions to him, we pray that you give him speedy, audience, and in all things, cause such provision to be made for the honout and Credit of his Errand, as custo●…e has renderend practicable in all Nations to Persons of his Degree. Adieu.  
Dated at Westminster April II. 1650.  
To the Corporation of Hamburgh.  
Most Noble, Magnificent and Worthy Gentlemen. Dear friend.  
YOur Entertainment to our Resident, upon his arrival with you, under that figure, has appeared so free, affectionate, and singular, that we own it as such, and earnestly entreat your continuance of that inclination and disposition towards Us. And that the rather, for that we are told, that those under banishment hence, of whom our former letters took so much notice, do daily more and more heighten in ●…heir Insolence among you, and that not only in an instance of opprobrious language to our Envoy, but an open declaration of some ill design to be practised upon him. This therefore brings an earnest repetition of our recommendation of his safety, and due honour to your Care. And the sooner you reprove those new, as well as old villains, and murderers, the more acccptable shall we reckon the act●…on, and perform a Deed very much consisting with your power and 〈◊〉.  
Dated at Westminster Mey 31. 1650.  
To PHILIP the FOUR King of Spain.  
WE are, to our great trouble, informed that Am honey Ascane lately deputed hence to your Majesty as our Ambassador, and as such, very civilly and publicly treated in his way thither, after having vanquished the hardships of a dangerous and tedious journey, was upon his first Entry into your Royal City, stripped of all protection, filthily set upon, and, with his Interpreter John Baptista de Ripa, most basily murdered at a certain ●…nn where he took up his quartters, yet in as much as we apprehend that not only we ourselves, ●…ut your faith, and reputation also have been in this action stabbed, ●…nd almost transfixed thro' his fides, we do with all imaginable earnestness pray your Majesty, to see imme diat jus●…ice executed upon such of the Murderers, as are reported to have been already taken, and committed to prison, their punishments ●…roportioned to their guilt, and their abe●…s and confederates (who ever they be) exemplyed suitable to the quality of this crime, and as the 〈◊〉 calls for. Albeit w●… doudt not but that a King naturally pious and just, would unsollicited, persorme nevertheless what we seem here to desire. Whereto what we have to add, is to pray that the body be delivered to the receipt of his Friends and relations in order to its transportationin to its own Country, and our consulting a little, and provideing for the health of his survivers as we shall think fit; till they, accompanid with an answer hereto give us, upon their return if possible, an account of your piety and justice herein.  
Westminster Dat. 28. January, 1650.  
To His Excellency Don ANTONIO JOANNI LUDOVICO, Duke of Corda, Medina Celi, President of Andalitia. The Council of State constituted by the Authority of the Parliament of England, Greeting.  
THE Person entrusted with the command in chief of that fleet sent hence to the Coast of Portugal to persecute, ●…d recover the Damages sustained from our enemies in those parts, hath acquainted us with your Highness' Friendship, upon the fleets touching upon the Coast of Galicia, a place belonging to your Jurisdiction, where thy were, he saith, very courteously used, and furnished with all manner of necessary supplies incident to the want of seamen. Which kindness of yours, as it has always justly challenged our gratitude, so in a more particular manner now, at a time when experience acquaints us with the effects of some ill dispositions from abroad towards us un proveoked that we know of. We therefore pray you, most Illustrious Sir, to be pleased not to discontinue the same disposition, and affection towards us, and that as often as any of our ships may for the future happen to touch at any place in the said Coasts, they fail not of the same favour and help; Resting in the mean time assured, that upon any opportunity occurring, and that may be improved to your advantage and service, our Returns shall be suitable.  
Dated at Westminster November 7. 1650. The Council-seale, affixed, and countersigned By JOHN BRADSHAW, President.  
To the Illustrious and Magnificent Senate of Switserland etc.  
Magnificent and most Noble Sirs, most dear Friends,  
WE have, by Letters from our Merchants tradeing for Prusia, received heavy Complaints of an intolerable and inusual Tax; lately imposed upon them by a decree enacted by the great Coudcil of Poland, who seem to have assessed them in the Tenth part of their Estates, with a design of applying the same to t●…e support of our enemy the King of Scots. Which as it is an act standing indirect opposition to the Laws of Nations to treat Merchants and sttangers after a method of this Make, it is also as pregnant with injustice to force such to contribute to the maintenance of one abroad, from whose Tyranny divine providence has so lately delivered them at home, and consequently do not doubt but that as we know you to be a free People, you will not abide, or give way to the laying of such Impositions upon Persons whose correspondence and traffic has for several years passed been of no small advantage to your City. If therefore you will protect them as Merchants and strangers, it is no less than what we may undoubtedly expect, as being a thing becoming your justice, and prudence, and no less suitable to the dignity of your splendid Corporation, and what our endeavours shall render you sensible of our acknowledgement of, as often as any of your People, or Ships, which often happens, shall need the friendship of our Ports.  
Dated at Westminster February 6. 1650.  
To the Portugal-Envoy.  
YOurs of the 15. current were delivered us at Hampton Court signifying your being sent from the Crown of Portugal, with a message to the Representatives of the Commonwealth of England, but take no notice under what Character; whether of an Agent, Ambassador, Envoy, or what; which pray resolve us in, by remitting us with as much speed as you can, Coppys of such Letters, and Credentials as accompany you from your King; together with an account whether you come with full power to repair such injuries, and making Amends for such Damages as your King has been the occasion of involving this Commonwealth in; in protecting (all the last sumer) within your harbours our enemies, and Rebels against the assault of our fleet while on the other hand, they were at liberty to invade us. If you say that you come with full power and directions to answer all these points, and that you send the aforesaid Copies, care shall be thereupon taken for your public, and safe access unto us who, when we peruse the King's Letters, shall direct liberty to be given you of expounding the Errand you are sent upon.  
The Representatives of the Commonwealth of England, To the most Serene Prince, D. FERDINANDO the second, Great Duke of Toskany.  
MR Almerico Salvetti, your Resident here, hath delivered us your Highness' Letter, dated at Florence the 22. of april, plainly showing the value your Highness retains for the English Nation; confirmed by the account we have not only from such of our Merchants as have for several years, lived as Traders i●… your Ports, but also young Gentlemen of our best Nobility, who have had the experience of your Country either by travelling throw, or living there to gain the education thereof. Which as it is a thing that cannot miss of ouf grateful approveall, so we earnestly pray, that you do not withdraw, or discontinue the like to such of our Merchants or other our Subjects, as may for the future have occasion of travelling thro' your Highness' Dukedom: Assureing you, that as far as it concerns the Parliament, nothing shall be wanting that may conduce to the fortifying & establishing the commerce and mutual affection with has (time out of mind) united both Nations, which we truly desire and wish may be perpetually maintained with all true endeavours, and mutual observance of both hands reciprocally.  
Westminster 20. January 1651. Subscribed by William Lenthale, Speaker to the House of Commons, whose Seal he fixed hereto.  
The Parliament of England, to the Illustrious and Magnificent Senate of Hamburgh.  
Most magnificent, Noble, & worthy Gentlemen, dearest Friends,  
THE Parliament of England, to evidence their great disposition to the inviolable observance of the mutual correspondence and commerce anciently held between England and your Corporation hath lately deputed thither Richard Bradshaw Esq to reside with you under the Character of their Resident, who among other t●…ings relating thereto, has it in express commands from them to demand Justice upon certain of your People, who made an attempt upon the Person of the Minister belonging to the English Company there, with a design (we understand) of murdering him, as also their Deputy, who had violent hands laid upon, as well as some of the chiefest of the Merchants themselves, whom they dared to offer the like affront unto, by spiritting them on board a certain Privateer etc. And albeit the said Resident hath upon his first Entrance, after he had audience given him, made particular pressure to you relateing thereto, pursuant to the Parliaments said commands, in order to the obtaining of Justice upon these villains, yet when we found ourselves dis●…ppointed in our said expectation, and likewise considering the danger which our Merchants, and Estates should be always exposed unto, ●…or want of a guard against the restless malice of their Enemies, we have commanded him to represent a fresh our sense of that affair: And that he should, in the name of this Commonwealth solicit your taking care of the preservation o●… the amity and alliance ratified between this Republic and your City, and the considerable Commerce which intercedes between both, and with all to protect as well our Merchants themselves, as their Privileges, without suffering them to be liable to any violation what ever; and that in a particular degree in reference to One Garmet whose deportment to this Commonwealth has appeared very insolent, and wh●…, to the great dislquiet o●… our Merchants, and in contempt of this Republic, has publicly cited certain Merchants of the English Company resi ●…eing in your City, into the Chamher of Spire: Wherein we depend upon such reparation, as may consist with equity and Justice.  
All these Particulars, and if there be any thing further, that may affect the ●…riendship now on foot between this Repubblick and your City, we have directed the said Resident to wait upon you with: Whom we desire that you give ample Credit unto in such things relating the reto as he shall propose.  
Westwinster 12. March, 1651. Subscribed by the Speaker of the House, whose 〈◊〉 be fixed thereto.  
To the most serene CHRISTIANA, Queen of Sweedland etc. the Parliament of England, greeting.  
THis comes to your Majesty with an account of our receipt and peruseall of your letters, dated the 26. of September last from Stokholme, directed to, and delivered the Parliament of England by Peter Spiering Silvercroon: and to intimate that we earnestly and cordially wish, that the alliance commerce, and great traffic anciently observed between England and Sweedland be permanent, and daily thrive, Nor do we doubt but that an Ambassador had come from your M●…jesty furnished with full power of making such proposals, as principally tended to the mutual Interest, and reputation of both Governments, and such as we should very freely have received from him, and that should seem to imply more particularly the health and profit of both, and who should have returned upon the speedy accomplishment thereof: But it having pleased God▪ The c●…iefe Moderator of things, to remove that person out of this world (whose loss we have as bitterly and sharply lamented, as consisted with our due deferrence to the will of God▪ be●…ore he could have made known unto the Parliament the message he came upon from your Majesty, the same has kept them hitherto from the knowledge of your Majesty's mind, so that the further progress thereof lies under present suspense; wherefore we have thought fit to let you know by our Envoy expressly dismissed herewith to that purpose; what welcome your Majesty Letters and public Minister may depend upon from the Parliament of England, and how ambitious we are of your Majesty's ●…riendshipp; as also what weight we shall, as we ought, be found to lay upon the ●…avour of so great a Prince: And our regard to the augmentation of that commerce now in bei●…g ●…etween this Government and your Majesties shall appear to be such, as we ought to retain in re errence to a point in it sel●…e every way valuable: and which, for that very reason, shall be of ultimat acceptance to the Parliament of England; in whose name, and pursuant to whoseauthority, first recommending your Majesty to the protection of God, their speaker has fixed their seal and counter signed this letters.  
Dated at Westminster March Anno Domini 1651.  
The Parliament of the Commonwealth of England.  
To the Most serene and potent Prince, Philip the IV. King of Spain greeting.  
GReat complaints have been made us from such of our people as exercise the faculty of merchandizeing within your Majesty's Dominions, of great violence, and injurious practices, and of proportionably new customs imposed upon them by the magistrates and other officers of your respective ports and other places where the▪ trade, and more particularly in the Canaery Islands; and that contrary to the Articles wherein both Nations have engaged each ●…ther for the Support of Trade. The Truth of whick complaints they have by oath made appear, and tell us, that if in case they are not justly treated, and their damages repaired, as also their Persons and Estates secured against such oppressions and affronts, they purpole to withdraw, and trade no longer into those places. Which having seriously considering, and judging that the misbehaviours of your Ministers, were not at all known, or represented to your Maj. otherwise then as they really stood, They thought fit to transmit herewith their said complaints to your Majesty, not questioning but that your Majesty may, out of regard to Justice, as the incentive consideration of Trade, wherein your own people's, as well as the advantage of ours, is equally involved, be pleased to ●…ssue such directions to your officers, as may wean such vexatious practices, and that the English Merchants have speedy Justice done them in consideration of the damages sustained thro' the means of Mr Peter de Carillo de Gusman and other persons, contrary to the said Articles, and that your Majesty may please to order that the said Merchants receive the benefi●… of the said Articles, and so to be retained in your Majesty's Ey, as that they in their persons and estates be lyableto no future oppression what ever. This they think they may, in a great measure attain unto, if your Majesty will grant them back again that Charter which protected them in cases of this kind; Otherwise they may be, for want of a due refuge from Injuries 〈◊〉 to the discontinuance of that commerce, which is of no small advantage to both through these kind of violations, and encroachments upon the Articles of peace.  
To the most Serene Prince the Duke of Venice. The Council of State constituted by the Authority of the Common- wealth of England greeting.  
JOhn Dickons, and John Throgmorton, with several others of our Merchants have complained that having, pursuant to the constitution & Authority of our Admiralty Court, about the 28. of November 1651. Seized upon a quantity of Camphire of about one handred Fats on board a certain ship called the swallow, under the Command of Isaac Tayler, then in the downs, but loaded thereon at a place in Muscovy called the Archangel, obtained, according to Law, adecrre in that Court▪, directing the delivery of the said Goods to the receipt of the said petitioners, upon Caution first entered into by them, of standing to the award of the Court; that the said Court, by whom this matter was to be determined, writ, according to Custom, to the Magistrates and Judges of Venice, praying that John Perat a venetian; who pretended a propriety to the said Good, would, by proxy appear in the admiralty Court of England where that difference depended, to prove the equity of his Claim. Yet the said Piatt and one David Butt●… a dutch man have, while this quarrel lay under the debate of our Court; exposed the said John Dickons, and the other Merchants to very much trouble touching the propriety of the said Camphire, arresting their goods and effects at Venice▪ the particulars of all which, and the sum of all the proceedings hitherto acted in our Court, are in these Letters of request more succinctly and largely contained; Which, after they were inspected into and perused by us, we have thought fit to transmit to the most serene Rebublick of Venice, presumeing that they might help the Merchants in this case, earnestly praying that the said Letters carry not only their own force and weight, but that the Merchant's Goods thus arrested by ●…he means of the said Pat●…us and David Ruts be discharged; and the said controversies remitted to the determination of our Court, who are ready to decide by Law their Right to this Camphiré. In doing wh ch your Highness, and the most serene Republic will do an act that in it self is principally just; worthy the untainted friendship of both Republics, and finally that shall be recompensed by this Republic upon any occasion that may offer of expressing their affection or good offices.  
Dated at Whitehall Febr. 1652. Sealed and signed by the Precedent of the Council.  
To the Spanish Ambassador.  
Most excellent Sir,  
THe Council of State having, in pursuance of a command from the Parliament dated the 2. of March, taken into their serious considederation your Excellency's memorial presented to a Committee of this board the 17. of February, wherein your Excellency has thought fit to propose a demand of an answer, to be before hand given to the two heads therein expressed: ordered your Excellency the following reply.  
That the Parliament, when they gave answer to such proposals, as were made by your Excellency upon your first audience, as also in the contents of the letters sent the most serene King of Spain, declared at Large how grateful & acceptable that friendships, and mutual commerce offered as well by the King himself, as you in his name was, and finally how much he stood disposed on his part towards the returning the like friendship and offices,  
That Your Excellency, being afterwards heard in Council, thought fit to propose thereto on the 19 of December old Style, a kind of a project tending to the fortifying of this alliance, whereof you having then made an offer; as if certain of their board were appointed to receive, and debate such things as your Excellency had to propose, and after deliberation had thereon, to report their opinion of the advantage thereof forthwith to the Council, the matter might receive no damage by it: They, did to gratify your said Proposals, nominate certain of their Number, to give your Excellency a meeting▪ who having conv●…n'd pursuant thereto, their said meeting, instead of what were expected to be proposed, amounted to no more than the purport of the aforsaied Memorial, to which the Council directed the subsequent answer.  
That, considering the Parliaments declaration, when your Excellency is got over the fere going progress, we are ready to give your Excellency a meeting touching such Overtures as you shall have to make on behalf of the King your Master, in reference as well to the alliance already made, as a stricter to be enter d into, or if there be any thing that may occur, or we judge to move on behalf of this Republic. And when we come to particulars, our Reply shall be meet, and consistent.  
Whitehall March 21. 1652.  
The Representatives of the Commonwealth of England, to the most Serene Prince Frederick the 3. King of Denmark greeting  
Most serene and potent King,  
WE have by the conveyance of Henry Williamson Rosenwing of Lysaker a worthy person received, and, suitable to the merit of their proposals, freely perused your Majesty's letters dated the 21. of December last from your Court at Hasnia, and desire that your Majesty would rest assured, that we retain the same disposition of mind, and the same affection to the continuance and preservation of the ancient correspondence, commerce, and friendship for so many years supported between England and Denmark, which we apprehend your Majesty to do; knowing that albeit it has pleased God, in favour of the Peace, and tranquillity of this Nation, to alter (we hope to abetter (the formerly established Form of this Government, yet to continue imoveable the same correspondence, maintain the same Interest, and recover its former vigour, to the mutual Trade and commerce, which have been the Results of former Contracts and alliances between both Nations, and by improveing those alliances all that may be to engage each other in an united and joint endeavour o●… perfecting and strengthering daily more and more, that friendship, is what we understand to be our advantage. And when it shall please your Majesty to pursue those Counsels mentioned in your Royal Letters, the Parliament will, with all alacrity, and sincerity, be ready to embrace them, and join all they can in any other contribution that may conduce to the promotion of such a design, and are therefore inclinable to believe your Majesty's resolutions in reference to this commonwealth to be such (it being also provided for in former contracts) as may consistwi●…h that willingness met with by your Majesty in us upon your 〈◊〉 proposal thereof. The Parliament in the mean time wish your Majesty and subjects health and happiness▪  
Dated at Westminster April Anno Domini 1662. Signed and sealed by the speaker, directed there to by Authority of Parliament.  
The Rèpresentatives of the Commonwealth of England, to the ●…llustrious and Noble Magistrates and Senators of the Hanseatick Cittys greeting.  
THE Representatives of the Republic of England have received, and perused your letters of the 16▪ of January last, and conform●…ble to their Demands admitted into audience Leo ab Aisem your public Minister who brought'em, and withal represented the ●…nclination and affection your people bear this Republic, praying withal and soliciting the future inviolable continuance of the ancient alliance now in being between us. The Parliament therefore do, for themselves, 〈◊〉 and assert it to be amost grateful thing to them to renew and ratify that friendship and correspondence which have formerly interceded between this Nation and those Co●…porations, and their Readiness upon all fit occasions to evidence their promises in their Performances, expecting to be treated with suitable faithfulness and integrity by those their ancient friends and confederates.  
As to the other Branches more particularly commited to, and urged by your Resident, no sooner were the same transmitted unto, proposed, and debated before the Council of State, but such an answer was resolved upon as seemed to consist with equity and reason, And which your Resident himself may remit to you, whose prudence and known integrity show how much he deserves the honour of your present favour to him.  
Dated at Westminster April Anno Domini 1652. Signed and sealed, pursuant to the authority of Parliament, by the speaker.  
The Representatives of the Commonwealth of England, to the Illustrious and noble Corporation of Hambroug greeting.  
Most noble, renowned, and Worthy Gentlemen. Dearest Friends  
THE Representatives of the commonwealth of England have received and perused your Letters dated at Hambrough the ●…5. of January last, brought them by a noble Gentleman Mr Leo ab Aisem, who styles himself under the character of yours, and the rest of the Hanseatique Cittys Resident, who has had audience allowed him pursuant to the Import of the said letteas; and what he had further in command on the particular behalf of your City, transmitted to ●…he Council of State, whom having directed to receive such proposals as he had to offer, and transact with him forthwithabout such thing as should consist with equity & Justice treated with him since accordingly. And as the Parliament has demonstrated the just regard that should be always had to such things as came from you, and testified its singular affection to your City in the appointment of a Resident sent to reside there, so it cannot but depend upon, and justly challenge a suitable return to such practicable proposals as their said Resident either already hath, or which he may for the future make in their name, to your City so long in amity and confederacy with us.  
Westminster April 1652. Subscribed ut supra.  
The Council of State, etc. To the most Serene Prince FERDINANDO the II. Great Duke of Toskany greeting.  
WHereas Charles Longland, Solicitor for the English Merchants at Livorne, having advised thence, that upon the arrival there of a fleet consisting of about fourteen Sails of Dutch men of war, publicly declareing that the Errand they came upon was to burn within your Port, or otherwise destroy such English Ships as they found there, Your Highness was, upon application made on behalf of the English, pleased to disappont the said Design, by recommending them to the protection of your Governor there: The Council of State has judgedit becoming her duty and office to observe unto Your Highness how gratefully that kindness and protection so seasonably and courteously done the English Merchants, is accepted of by the Republic of England; promising and engageing unto Your Highness that the Memory of this good turn has made such an impression, as is never to be forgot, and their Readiness to improve all opportunities that may offer of effectually returning Your People the like friendship and office and performing all other things that may conduce to the support of the usual benevolence and commerce of this, and Your Nation. And whereas the Dutch Fleet have, even while conferences of their own dictation concerning an alliance were under debate; made perfidious attempts upon ours, and that not only in our own harbours even (in which wicked attempt God, as a most just Arbitrator, prevented their wickedness) but in foreign Ones also, where they would take, or sink our Merchant Men▪ We have thought it necessary to transmit unto Your Highness this Paper on behalf of the Parliament of England; which some controversies lately arisen between this Government and Holland; have occasioned the sending of. Whereby, how much the iniquity of that people in their behaviour to this Republic has been, and how void of regard to all Justice, and the Law of Lands themselves, is what may be very obvious to your Highness, and how studious the Parliament's endeavours have been to show their Tenderness to the public peace; could the former friendship, and society of that people be any way continued.  
Dated at Whitehall July 29. 1652. Signed and sealed by the Precedent of the Council  
To the Spanish Embassadonr.  
THE Council of State having considered the two Memorials exhibited thereto by your Excellency; the one dated the 6. of June, or 27. May, and the other the 6▪ or 16. current, return the following Answer to both; that the Parliament of the Commonwealth of England is very w●…ll▪ disposed towards the continuance of that Amity, and well constituted peace now in Existency between this Republic and the King of Spaine's Royal Majesty, since Your Excellency has intimated that to be the Bend of his said Majesti●… too, and that all imaginable Readiness should be met with of improving the same to the common Good of both Nations. The which, the Council of State has in the Name, and by the direction of the Parliament so often demonstrated in their written replies to Your Excellency; and particularly, in conformity to Your Excellency's desire, has appointed a Committee to give Your Excellency a meeting and receive such proposals as you had to offer conduceing to the aforesaid End. Which meeting afterwards has, in lieu of other expectations, produced some things Consisting in general Terms, and as it were, previous to a future conference, which the Council believed the Parliament had in former replies made plain its opinion concerning: Yet to give further satisfaction, and to remove any doubt which Your Excellency may pretend to remain under, concerning the particular Instances of the Overtures you then made, the Councils Reply of the 31. March or 10. April, shows that when all steps necessarily previous thereto, such as what Your Excellency had to offer on behalf of his said Royal Majesty, in reference to the former, as any other stricter alliance to be entered into on the one hand, as what we should exhibit on behalf of this Republic, were discoursed about & determined, on the other hand, yea when all things were truly debated as they ought to be, and that Your Excellency came to confer accordingly, they were ready: To which Your Excellency made no reply, nor proceeded further in the matter these almost two months past. And Your excellency's of the 27. May or 6. June 52. is the first that the Council heard of since that time, which seems to signify no more then to desire that the Articles of peace and alliance entered into by Charles the late King, and your Master, dated the 6. or 16. of November 1630. might be reviewed, and such alterations made in the heads thereof in reference to an addition to, or diminution therefrom, as the frame of the government and time now altered should call for; which as it amounted to no more, than what we, in our aforesaid Reply of the 10. april or 31. March, fully and plainly signified: the Council did ere this expect some application from Your Exc●…llecy, with an account of those particular Articles and alterations which you mention you would have made in the League, considering that it is otherwise impossible for us to give any other Reply different from what we have already done. But whereas Your Excellency seems, by your late Memorial to lay the fault at our door, the Conncil therefore resolved, & made a fresh inspection into your said Memorial of the 27. of May or 6. of June and its contents, and thinks it has, in that former paper, fully satisfied your Excellency. In addition whereto, can say no more than that when your Excellency is at leisure to make known your desires of altering the alliances now established, or proposeing such other Terms conduceing to the accommodation of times, and affairs, as they now stand, and which you would, on your part lay the foundation of an alliance upon; their answer thereupon shall be such as they judge may consist with equity, and testify the Parliaments inclination of persevering in the same sincerity of maintaining unstained, and ●…irme, it's friendship wi●…h the King your Master; and contributeing to any other expedient, which becoming it, may tend to the prosperity of such an alliance.  
The Council doth moreover judge it abranch of her duty to remind your Excellency of our Memorial transmitted unto you under the 30. of January 1651 which being yet unanswered, we continue still under instant expectations of the Parliaments being satisfied in the contents of.  
The Council of State's answer to a Reply of the most serene King of Denmarke's Ambassadors extraordinary delivered to the Committee of Council, in answer to a former One of the Councils concerning their fourteen Demands.  
THe Council, previous to the satisfaction of the a foresaid Ambassadors, in her answer to the fifth, sixth, seaventh, eight and ninth Articles doth assent to the following paragraphs being added to the foot of their former answer: that is to say; Besides those Colonies, Islands, ports and places under the Government of either, whether it is by Law forbid to resort upon the account of Trade, or traffic, without his special licence first obtained, to whose Jurisdiction the said Colony, Island Ports, or places shall appertain. The taking of any thing on board of a ship driven into the Rivers, Ports, or havens of either party, shall not render such a ship etc. liable to any molestation or search, as the said Ambassadors would, in their said Reply, seem to have interpreted that of the Council to the eleaventh Article, Saveing in places where such a Reception happens to fall contrary to the Laws, Statutes, and Custom of the place wherein such a ship took Port. In which case the Council doth, think to have imposed nothing of hardship, but that is equally conduceing to the welfare of both Republics.  
As to the proof of the propriety of such ships, or Goods, as shall, by shipwreck, happen to be driven on shore: it is the opinion of the Council that, in such cases, Oath be taken in such Courts as either already are, or hereafter may be erected for the hearing and determining such Cases, where, such as may at any time lay claim to such Goods, may be distinctly heard, and every one's Right knowne and determined; which by paper (commonly called Certificates) cannot ●…e so clearly and infallibly attained unto, whence a cloud of scruples and Doubts may of times arise, as also cover a deal of fraud, a●…d deceit often creeping under such a kind of proof which concern both parties equally to prevent. The Council is also of judgement that a certain time be limited not to be exceeded without the forfeiture of such a claim, by persons to bring their proof with in the extent of, of their propriety, and to be excluded the benefit of the Court upon failing to make clear their Right within the space of) to avoid endless Suits of Law.  
As to a method of vending such goods found in the wrack, as are perishable, the Council has also thought fit to propose that of (the Inch of Ca●…dle) which as it is a means very probable, so it is equally as expedient to secure th●… O●…ner a good price for his Goods; But if the aforesaid Ambassadors shall come furnished with any other detected Expedient, that may be found more conduceing to this end, the Council shall not withstand the promotion of what is equitable, nor can it see how it may occasion any demur to the dispatch of this Treaty.  
As to the forfeiture they are to be liable unto, that shall be found to encroach upon the proposals herein contained, the Council inserted the same in their Reply to the fourteenth Article, to the rendering the said Article of more efficacy, and the Treaty it sel●…e more durable and firm.  
As for an answer to the last clause of the 14. Article, it is inconsistent with our Judgement to give our assen to those alliances, and fraternity mentioned in the said Replies and which are proposed in General Terms only, till, by a further explanation, we see what they may mean. Which when Your ●…xcellency is pleased to be plain with the Council in, we shall be able then to be more particular on our part.  
The Council of States Reply to the said Ambassadors Answer, given in Reply to theirs to the 16. Articles exhibited by the Council in the name of the Republic of England.  
THE Council having perused the Letters Parents impowering the said's Lords Ambassadors to treat with the Parliament itself, or its Deputies in reference to such matters as were expedient to be transacted towards the renewing the ancient alliances, and adding new ones, did truly think, that the said Lords Ambassadors came with such authority, as to have been able to Answer, and transact all such things as should be proposed on behalf as well of this Republic, as of the King of Denmark and Norway, and therefore did not expect those Replies which the said Lords Ambassadors were pleased to give to the Council's first, second, third and fifth Demand, which renders it necessarily obvious to be pressed to the consideration of the present Treaty; as a thing in itself most just, & accordingly determined in Council to compromise, & take in the whole, as well what concerns this Republic, as the Kingdom's o●… Denmark and Norway. It is therefore the earnest Request of the Council, that Your excellency's Answer to our said first, second, third, and fifth Demand be made known.  
As to the 4. Article concerning the Customs at Gl●…kstadt, as Your excellency's Answer intimated their being antiquated, the Council seems to press that the same be expressly ratified in the Treaty, lest they should be hereafter revoaked.  
As to the 6. Article about Pirates, the mutual advantage of both parties has been the end of that Article, and to establish the repose of Trade in common against the disquiet and interruption of Rogues & Thiefs, and as the Lords Ambassadors Reply to this Article was peculiarly applicable to the Enemy, and therefore took no special notice of pirates: The Council therefore desires to be expressly dealt which in that point.  
And whereas the aforesaid Lords Ambassadors, in their Reply to the Council's Answer, in reference more especially to their 10. Article took no notice of the Council's Answer, the Council thought fit to add the following Article to their former demands; That the People, and Inhabitants of the Commonwealth of England, who held or exercised any Trade or Commerce with any of the Kingdoms, Dominions, or Jurisdictions belonging in the Crown of Denmark and Norway; should be liable to the Payment of no excess of Castome Tax, Toll, Tribute, or any other Imposition what ever for the future, beyond what the Dutch, and all other foreign Nations, exerciseing Trade, shall, or aught to pay, and to enjoy with freedom, the same full Liberty, Privileges, and Imunities in their coming in, stay, as well as departure; as also their Fishing-Trade, and all other circumstances what ever, equal, and in proportion with any other strangers inhabiting the aforesaid Kingdoms or Empire of the said King of Denmark and Norway; which Privileges the said King of Denmark's and Norway's Subjects shall likewise enjoy throughout all the Provinces, and Jurisdictions belonging to the Republic of England.  
The Council of State, to the most Illustrious Prince, FERDINANDO the TWO Great Duke of Toskany, Greeting.  
Most Illustrious Prince, and dearest Friend,  
CHarles Longland, Attorney for the English Factory at Livorne, as also Your High: Resident here having comunicated unto us with what affection and sincerity our Merchantmen were protected by Your Highness upon their repair to Livorne, to escape the design of Dutch Rovers, who breathed nothing but ruin and destruction against them, the Council of State's Letters dated the 31. of July last, and come to hand ere this we hope, have signified unto Your Highness how grateful so seasonable a piece of kindness as that happened to be, was to them, where by the same conveyance, they transmitted unto Your Highness other Papers containing an account of the ground of the controversy now depending between the Parliament of England & the States of Holland; And upon such advise transmitted from the said Charles Longland, of your Highness' further care bestowed upon the English, by warning the Dutch to supersede, notwithstanding their industrious solicitation to the Country, the said Council has taken the Liberty of signifying unto Your Highness by this conveyance, that as your Justice and singular constancy in defending their Ships calls for the height of their esteem, so it likewise doth their g●…atitude. Which as it is no slight indication of your sound friendship, and affection to this Republic, so Your Highness may rest Confident that upon any occasion opportunely represented, our Returns shall lead your desires, & that in a method becoming the respect and affection we owe you and yours, and that in such a degree as may declare how much we make it our endeavour to render the Alliance between this Government and Your Highnesses both constant and permanent. We have in the mean time Issued our strict command to such of our Ships, as may happen to call at your ports, that they fail not saluteing you with a just Number of Canons, and paying you all other imaginable due respect.  
Dated at Whitehal, September 2625. Subscribed by the President of the Council, whoseseale he fixed thereto.  
TO ALPHONSO DE CARDENAS, the Spanish Ambassador.  
Most Excellent Sir,  
YOUR Excellency's Letter, dated the 5. or 15. November 1652, together with two Petitions enclosed concerning the Ship commonly known by the Name of the Samson and Salvador, were by Your Secretary upon the 8. Ditto, delivered unto, and read in Council, who appointed the following Answer to both. That the said Shipp fell in the English-man's way super altum mare not in the Downs, as Your Excellency seems to have understood it, where having set upon & seized her as a Vessel belonging to the Enemy, brought her home, & proceeded against her as a lawful prize in the Admiralty Court, to which alone the cognisance of such cases is solely belonging, and where the pretences of all parties are audibly and freely debated, and lawfully determined. We have moreover transmitted Your Excellencies Demand to the ●…udges of the laid Court, with directions requireing our being informed concerning what proceedings were made towards the condemnation of th●… said Shipp. Which when we have satisfaction given us in, such further care shall be taken therein, as is consistent with justice, and becomeing the friendship subsisting between this Republic and Your King, relying upon a suitable confidence that his Royal Majesty will not suffer himself to be made a Cloak of, to protect the goods of our Enemies, or see us otherwise ba●…led under the pretence of their owning themselves his Subjects.  
Subscribed by William Lenthal, Precedent of the Council▪ whose Seal he caused to be affixed thereto. Dated at Whitehal, November 11, 1652.  
To the Spanish Ambassador.  
Most Noble Sir,  
BAldid, a Commander of one of the Men of War belonging to this Commonwealth, having lately advised the Council that being necessitated to put in at a place commonly called by the name of Longone, to repair some damages sustained in a Battle of two days constant continuance fought in the straits of Gibraltar against eleven Dutch Men of War, having but three besides himself, and furnish himself and Company with such further supplies as he wanted for fight, the Governor of that place acquitted himself like a very just, and civil Person towards both him and the rest of his Ships. And whereas the said place lies within the King of Spain's Dominions, the Council reckons the singular humanity of that Civility effectually demonstrated, to be the true & plenti●…ul Result of the strict alliance so fortunately established, and so judge it an act becoming them to thank His Majesty for so seasonable a piece of service, and desire Your Excellency to be pleased to signify the same without loss of time to His most Serene Majesty, and to assure him of a suitable Return of friendship and kindness upon any occasion that may offer.  
Dated at Westminster, November the11. Anno Domini 1652. Signed and sealed by William Masham, President of the Council.  
To the most Serene Prince FERDINAND the II. Duke of Great Toscany, the Representa●…ives of the Commonwealth of England greeting.  
Most Serene Prince, and dearest Friend,  
THe Representatives of the Commonwealth of England, have received Your Highness' Letter, dated the 3. of August, from Florence, touching the Restitution of a Vessel loaded with Rice, challenged by a Master belonging to Livorns called Cardio, and albeit Sentence is already awarded in our Cor of Admiralty against the said Cardio concerning that affair, and that the appeal then hung before the Delegate, yet upon Your Highness' interposition, the Parliament, to show their opinion of the amity and friendship of so great a Prince, commanded those that were entrusted with the management of that affair, that that Vessel wit●… her loadeing of Rice, or an equivalent value (at least) should be restored to the said Captain Cardeo, whose Correspondent has since received the effect of the said Command accordingly: And as Your Highness' Protection to the English Merchants, and principally in the Port of Livorne, has very much obliged the Parliament (of which Your Resident as well as Charles Longland, Solicitor for the English Factor●… at Livorne, have given us an account) so the Parliament is, on its part, well disposed to the taking care, that as often as there is occasion for it, no offices of sincere Friendship or love towards Your Excellency shall need to be complained of. Comendig You in the mean time fervently to the Tuition of Divine Providence.  
Dated at Westminster November 1652. Subscribed b●… the Speaker of the House of Commons, whose seal he caused to be affixed thereto.  
The Representatives of the Republic of England. To the Most Serene and Porent Prince the King of Denmark.  
Most Serene and Po●…ent King.  
THE Commander in chief of the Fleet, la●…ely ●…ent hence to give Convoy homewards to such of our Merchantmen as attended, to that purpose,, at the Port of Hasnia having advised our Parliament, that upon his arrival thore, he found an Embergo laid upon the departure of the said Mer●…hant men, pursuant to an order of Your Majesties, commanding that none of them should be suffered to budge, notwithstanding his having produced your Majesty's letters signifiing your pleasure to the contrary, and demanding the reason of such detention. To prevent therefore any ill consequences that may arise therefrom to either of the Nations so palpably concerned, and which may be pursued by a worse, the Parliament has directed Richard Bradshaw Esq. a worthy Gentleman, of known fidelity, and their Orator now at Hamburgh, to wait upon Your Majesty under the same Character, with express commands directing him to discourse and treat concerning that affair; Praying that Your Majesty would therefore please courteously to listen unto, & allow him full credit in what ever he shall propose unto Your Majesty in our Name r●…lating to this affair; Whom we, in the mean time, heartily recomend to the care and protection of God.  
Dated at Westminster, November, 1652. Signed and sealed by the Speaker, in pursuance of the Parliaments direction.  
The Representatives of the Commonwealth of England, to the most Serene Duke of Venice, greeting.  
LAurence Paulet has delivered the Parliament Your Highness' Letter, dated the first of June 1652. which as it testifys the good disposition of Your Senate, as well as Your Highnesses towards this Republic, so they on their parts, have thought fit to make known by this occasion the respect & affection they bearto the most Serene Commonwealth of Venice, and shall not grudge their continueing so to do, and making no difference between their performances and promises, as often as they are furnished with occasions that may enable them to act suitably, and also cheerfully pursue such means, as may be employed towards the support and improvement of the Amity and mutual commerce now existent. wishing and praying, in the mean time, that all happiness and prosperity may attend Your Highness and most S●…rene Republic.  
Dated at Westminster, December Anno Domini 1652. Signed and sealed by the Speaker purs●…ant to the command and authority of the Parliament.  
The Representatives of the Commonwealth of England, to the most Serene Prince Ferdinando the II. Great Duke of Toscany.  
WHereas the Representatives of the Commonwealth of Englaud have, in former ●…nstructions to their Sea Commanders, strictly charged them, upon their touching at any Port within Your Highness' Empire, to behave themselves peaceably, modestly and suitable to that observance which Your Civilityes to this Government justly call for from us, & to whose Kindnesses they cannot but own themselves much obliged. Yet it proved matter of great Surprise to them to find all forgot, in the comportment of one of their said Officers, named Appleton, whose demeanour to the watch at Livorne is said to have been very insolent, and that contrary as well to the allegiance wherein be is indebted to this Republic, as well as the regard every Prince ought to have shown him within his own Territories. Which the Parliament had an account of as it happened, not onel from Your own Letters under the 7. and 9 of December last from Florence, but more particularly from Master Almericus Salvetus Your Resident ●…ere, who is a very worthy Gentleman. Your Highness' honour, which seems to be involved in this matter, lies under that veneration with the State, as that this matter is wholly and particularly recommended to t●…e care of the Council, with direction to write fortwith to Captain Appleton, for his repaiting home by land, to answer the insolency of this unpresidented misbehaviour of his (of which the enclosed is a Copy) who upon hi●… arrival, shall be examined, and such punishment awarded him, as shall testify that we are no less concerned, than if it were done in contempt of our own Government.  
As concerning the Phoenix taken at ●…vorne, Your Excellency and Resident seem to say and urge, that the same was committed contrary to Appletons' promise, who was obliged to make no attempt upon the Dutch within sight of the Port or its Lantborne: that Your E●…cellency relying thereon, entered into the like engagement to the D●…ch, and that therefore they ought to depend upon satisfaction for the damage sustained from their depending upon Your protection and promise. The Parliament assure You, that as the same was commited without their Council or advice, so it is a thing very distant from their inclination and mind to expose Your Excellency to any manner of inconveniency, or diminution of honour, upon the score of that Deed; Nay shall endeavour that away be found out of making You such satis●…ction. as shall seem suitable to the demerit of the cause, after inquiry first made. To be more fully informed wherein, they think it a very necessary point to have Appleton himself examined before them, who was obliged by his promise, and consequently believed by Your Excellency to have a betted (at least) in that violation; especially considering that he is to return in so short a time, who, when ever he is heard by the Parliament, and further debate had thereon with Your Orator, shall have such sentence awarded him upon this so considerable a crime, as shall consist with equity and the extraordinary affection which they bear Your Excellency, and finally not unworthy Your Kindnesses. To confirm Your Excellency's belief of which, they have directed this present messenger to be forthwith dispatched away with these Letters, lest they should be said to S●…ip any opportunity that may be improved into a real Testimony of their sincerity towards You.  
Dated at Westminster, 14. December Anno Domini 1652. By authority and Command of Parliament signed, and sealed by the Speaker.  
The Council of State, to the most Serene Prince Frederick Heir of Norway, Duke of Slesvice, Alsace, Ha●…mar, Ditmarse, Earl in Oldenburgh and Delmhorst greeting.  
Although it has been the Decree of the all knowing God, and most merciful Ruler of the universe, to engage us, (beyond that duty sustained by, and transmitted unto us from our Ancestors) in a most just quarrel, for the resuceing our Liberty's from the oppression of Tyranny, and lend us such singnall Marks of his divine help, and assistance, in preferrence to them, as to have enabled us not only to lay the fury of a civil war, but destroy the future growth thereof, as also withstand and repel the unexpected assaults of foreign Enemy's. Yetunder as sincere acknowledgements as we can be, of the favour and love of the most high Deity towards us, we are not nevertheless so far transported with the consideration of our prosperity, as, pursuant to the singular providence and Justice of God, (which we have had a plentiful experience of) not rather to declare all we can our averseness to war, and readiness to embrace a willing peace with all people, than otherwise. Therefore as we ourselves have not hitherto nor leaded, nor promoted in others, the violation of such friendship and Terms of alliances, as have formerly interceded between us, and all foreign People and Princes whatever, so your Excellency may rest assured, on behalf of your people, as well as your own, of all fair dealings from us, pursuant to the ancient correspondence settled by your Ancestors with the English. And as we are ready to return all due acknowledgements, for those affectionate offices already bestowed by your Highness upon us, so our work shall be to render you, and yours sensible of the want of none on our part: Recomending the while, as much as may be, your Excellency to the omnipotenty, and Deity of Almighty God.  
Dated at Whitehall July Anno Domini 1653. Signed and sealed (ut supra) by the Precedent.  
To the Earl of Oldenburgh.  
Most Illustrious Sir.  
THE Representatives of the Commonwealth of England have received your many Salutes, very carefully and courteously comunicated by Harmanus Miles Your Counsellor, Deputy; and Solicitor, who in your name wished that all happiness might attend England and its Parliament, and solicited the continuance of the friendship now in being between this Republic and you; as also the grant of our letters of safe conduct, to the end your people might trade the securer and navigate and exercise commerce; together with our commands, to be transmitted to our public Ministers abroad, in order to their being aiding with their councils and offices to you and yours. Which we have freely assented unto, and granted as well what his demand was in referrece to an alliance, as the other two, under the Parliaments seal: Albeit some months are slipped, since our sirst receipt of your Ministers address unto us. Yet that delay cannot be properly imputed to any difficulty of ours to assent to your petition, nor neglect in your servant of pressing it (who to ●…ave his solicitations answered, and he dismissed master of his errand, behaved himself diligently, and with all pressure imaginable) it springing wholly from the great & weighty concerns of the Republic, whose Transactions have taken up most of this win●…er. Which we thought fit to acquaint your most serene Honour with, that none, by inter preting this demur otherwise then as it is occasioned, may take the liberty of saying that what the Parliament of England has freely granted, might be said to have been extorted therefrom, in whose name this was directed to be signed by.  
HENRY SEOBELE, Cl. of the Parliament.  
The Parliament of the Commonwealth of England to the Illustrious, and most noble Counselors and States of the Cantons of Switzerland etc. greeting,  
WE have, (Illustrious, and dearest Friends) received yours Letter dated the 24 Decemb. 1652 pregnant with all humanity, kindness and great assection towards us and our Government; and which ought to sway more with us, breathing brotherly and truly Christian Charity: And must be more particular in our acknowledgements to the most good and great God, for that he has been pleased to raise and secure, (as a most firm bulwark to the safety of the protestant Interest there) you, and your so many most noble Corporations, surrounded and munified not so much by those muontains, with which you are impaled, as your naturable Courage, Piety, Prudence, and most just administration of public affairs; together with the mutual reputation of alliances: You afterwards, (who after the removeall of the Tyranny of Barbarous Kings from the North, have been almost the sirst of all Europe, who, God favouring your Enterprise, purchased your Liberties, and mainteind it so purchased untainted, with no less prudence and moderation, thro' the difficulty of so many years) to judge so charitably of us, and our lately purchased liberty, & being such sencere Admirers of the Gospel; to be so constant in your opinion of the love and affection we bear to the Orthodox Faith, is a thing which we cannot but value at a●… extraordinar rate. And as to the affection with w●…ich you solicit us to a peace, we noway question the sincerity thereof, but that it proceeds from pi●…ty and true affection; That intepposition ought to influence us very much, as well for what it leads unto. (which is in itself ver●… desirable) as the Authority, which in pref●…ence to all others, is justly applicable to you, who among all the Storms of war, blowing from every Corner, have main●…aind so long your peace abroad and at home, and were examples without exception, and Persuaders of peace to all other people; And because you Persuade that which we endeavoured more than once (not so much o●…t of regard to our own, as the Interest of the protestants universally) and sollicitted by Embassys and other public Ministers to effect, that is; to contract astrict alliance and Friendship with the State's General of the united Provinces. But they (or as we ought to style them) that Orange Faction our perpetual enemies, addict●…d to the Royal party, and among their own club, of known affection to Tyranny, how have they entertained our Ambassadors? not as people that came to discourse of Peace, but brotherly kindness and most strict alliance, what provocations have they given to a war afterwards may plentifully appear from what we publicly writ concerning it, and herewit●… transmit nnto you, of their having, while their own Embass●…dours were treating, surprised and Saulted our ships with a fleet of theirs and that at a time, when ours lay in their stations, without as much as imagining such a thing. But thro' Gods help such has been our care hitherto, as that although matters happened to fall out so well, yet we do not take the glory to ourselves, our strength, or Number of hands, but give all to God alone. Nor are we troubled with the least extraordinary fit of Transportation upon the score of our prosperity; We are still the same people & very ready to embrace all occasions of making a just & honourable peace. In the mean time Illustrious and most noble Sirs, you who, under the impulse of Evangelicall love, make it your pious and sincere endeavour to reconcile, and compose brotherly misunderstandings, and who, wor●…hy the esteem of all mankind; entitle yourselves doubtless to that Blessing awarded by the divine Sentence of God's decree to the peace makers, and to whose most lofty affection and grace, we do most sincerely and heartily recommend you, if in any thing our service can be of service to you, we are ready to show ourselves not as friends but Brethren.  
Dated at Westminster October Anno 1653. Signed and sealed by the Speaker to the House of Commons.  
To the Spanish Ambassador.  
Most Illustrious Sir,  
UPon the receipt of a petition in the names of Philip Noel, John Goddall and other Merchants belonging to Foy in England, heavily bemoaning that a ship of theirs called the Ann of Foy of their own buildding in England, was about Michaelmas last most injustly set upon, and seized by a certain privateer belonging to Ostend commanded by Erasmus Bruerus, who in his way homewards seized her loading, wholly belonging to the petitioners, and treated the mariners unworthily and barbarously: The Council of State thereupon writ to the Duke of Leda (a copy whereof comes herewith to your Excellency) and expected that he would, according to justice and equity, make speedy inquiry into that affair. But the said Noel, and the rest of the Petitioners renewing their said heavy complaint, and urgeing, that although the said Duke had our said letters delivered him, and that the said Merchants repaired since to Bruges, where at the Admiralty Court they made proof of their cause and the integrity of their Claim, but that Justice is nevertheless denied 'em, and they exposed to so unjust use●…ge; That albeit the case has stood ready for determination any time these three months and more, yet could not obtain the sentence of that Court; but that their said ship and goods are still nevertheless under the same Restraint, and they themselves, from this delay of Justice, exposed to considerable expenses in the prosecution of their Right. Your Excellency is not ignorant of its being contrary to the Laws of Nations, as well as the Terms of Trade and correspondence ●…ow existent between the English and Flanders, that any Osteender should offer to touch any English ship, provided she be loaded with Euglish goods, and bound for England, and that the said Captain's in●…umane and barbarous useage of the Mariners ought to be severely punished. The Council therefore recommends the case to your consideration, and prays that you would write to Flanders about it, and endeavour that speedy care be taken, that this business be no longer prolonged, but that Justice be done: as that the said ship and Goods, together with the damages, expenses, and loss which the said English have sustained upon the score of that injust interception, be by the Authority of the said maritime Court of Brussels, or some other good manner, restored them, and provision made against any such future interception, but that the correspondence now in being between England and France be supported without any Interruption.  
Signed and sealed by the direction of the Council of State appointed by the Parliament.  
To the Duke of Lisle.  
Philip Noel, John Gad●…ll, with several other Merchants belonging to the Town of Foy having made large complaints unto us concerning a Ship of theirs called the Ann of Foy, representing that the said Ship Anne built, and loaded at their sole and peculiar cost and charges, was about Michaelmas last in her way homewards, unawares set upon, & seized by one Erasmus Bruerus a Master of a ship belonging to Ostend. They moreover say, that the Osteenders, when they got the vessel into their possession misused the mariners very inhumanely by dipping and almost stiffleing'em, to prevent their telling of Tales, and disposed of the goods, as if they were French propriety. Which albe it the Master as well as the Mariners positively denied to be, yet the Ostenders carried both Ship and Goods to their own homes. The truth of these things has, upon inquiry made, and the testimony of sworn witnesses been proved, as is evident by the Certificate herewith sent. In as much therefore as the said Ship, called the Anne of Foy, with all the Goods truly, properly, and bonafide b●…longed to the English, so as that there appears no cause why they of Ostend should lay violent hands on her or them, much less touch the Master or expose the Seamen to so much hardship; and whereas the constitution of the Laws of Nations, and the alliance now existent between England, and Flanders call for the restitution of the said Shipp and Goods, we earnestly desire Your Excellency, that timely Right be done the English in having their own forthwith returned 'em, and satisfaction made for the damages they sufteined, and that the Trade and Commerce which now intercede between England and Flanders may be supported firm a●…d permanent.  
To the Spanish Ambassador.  
WHereas the Representatives of the Commonwealth of England, being informed, that great many People about Town relating as well to Your Excellency, as other Ambassadors and for●…eign public Ministers attending here, resort to Your, as well as other Hou●…es under the pretence of hearing Mass, Gave it in strict charge to the Coun●…il to observe to Your Excellency, that as the ●…aid practice tends to the express prejudice of the Laws of this Nation, and of proportionable ●…ll example and offence to the Government: They judged it abranch of their ossice to prohibit such a practice for the future, and declare their dislike of such Assemblies for the ensuing time. Whereof we desire Your Excellency to take notice, and suffer none of the Subjects of this Republic to frequent Your House for the time to come to hear Mass. And as the Parliament shall take due care to have the Right of Ambassadors as well as their Privileges secured inviolable to Your Excellency, so they depend upon no encroachments to be made by You or Yours upon the Laws of the Land dureing Your abode therein.   

An Abstract of the particular Damages Sustained by the English East India Company thrò the means of the Dutch, in several places of the East Indies.  
Imprimis, 

THE Damages contained in the 16. Articles lately exhibited, amounting in pieces 〈◊〉 291555. in Sterling make-73638: lb. 15, ss.  
2. Satisfaction is expected for the Croppariseing from the ●…sland of Pularon from between the year 1622. to this time, amounting in value to two handred thousane preces 5/8 besides future expense, till the same be restored, as it was when it was taken from us; and that according to articles of agreement. Which in sterling is.— 50000. lb. 0: 0.  
3. We expect satisfaction for all those Sea pr●…visions and apparel aken from the English in the Indies, by the Dutch Factory, delivered to, or forced from their ships in their going to, or returning thence. Amounting to 10635. royals, and in sterling.— 30158: lb. 0.  
4. We expect satisfaction for the Custom of all Dutch comodities imported into, & exported out of Persia from the year 1624. according to the King of that Countries Grant unto us, which we cannot calculat at less●…n value then eighty thousand royals.—— 20000. lb. 0. 0.  
5. We expect satisfaction for the reparation of four houses most maliciously and unjustly destroyed at Jocatra, together with warehouses and other necessaries, occasioned by the means of the Dutch Governor there. Of all which we have had an account send us thence before our former complaint was exhibited, which damage amounts unto two hundred thousand pieces 〈◊〉.—— 50000. lb. 0.  
6. We expect satisfaction for 32899 pounds of pepper taken by force out of the ship Endymion, in the year 1649. whose damage amounts unto——— 6003. lb. 0.    
220796. lb. 16. ss.   

An Abstract of some particular losses sustained by the English East India Company from that of the Dutch,  


1. For the dama●…es sustained from the siege of Bantham, which hindered our Trade with that place for the continued space of six years, and prevented our laying in a stock of 600000. pieces 〈◊〉 for the buying of pepper according to our proportion. Which might serve to load such of our ships, as wandered up and down the Indian Coast in their ballast, for want of freight: Our adventure having been, in the mean space, in sea-mens' wages, victuals, and apparel diminished and exhausted among the Indians to that degree, that the loss cannot amount to less than 103000. pieces 8/8 which in our coin is.— 6000000▪ lb. 0. ss▪ 0.  
2. More for the damages sustained by the loss of our just part of the Islands of Molluco, Banda and Amboyna, since the time we have been murdered, and driven thence. For the prejudice of which and other expenses we expect to be satisfied, amounting (in time) from the year 1622. to i current year 1650. at the yearly Income of 25000. lb. for 28. years the Su●…e of.—— 700000. lb, 0. ss.  
3. Reparation is likewise expected for 12950. pieces 〈◊〉 damage done us at Surrat by those of Mogul so protected by the dutch, that we could not repay ourselves either in money, or goods which we might otherwise, and had it in our power to have taken from them▪ had not the Dutch most unjustly stood in their defence. Which loss might in Europe be improved ere this, to triple the value. Whi●… we judge to amount to.———— 77020. lb.  
4 For Customs at Persia, whose moiety the King of that place granted the English anno 1624. which to the year 162●…. is calculated to come to 80000. Mille royals as aforesaid. Which being substracted, they are obliged to pay from the year 1629. being twenty one years, at the rate off our thousand pounds a year, comes to the sum of. 84000. lb. 0. ss.    
The King's Hand.  
From the other side 220976. lb. 15. ss. 0.  
The Sum total 1681996. lb. 15. ss. 0.  
The interest for the said time having far exceeded the principle.   

Here follow all the LETTERS Written by OLIVER CROMWELL, To foreign Princes and Potentates, while Protector of England.  
To the Count of Oldenburgh.  
Most Illustrious Sir.  
I do, by Yours of the 20. of January 1654. apprehend, that Frederick 〈◊〉 Wollisogg, ●… Noble Gentleman, and Your Secretary, with Christopher Griffie, were with certain commands sent from Your most Illustrious Dignity into England: Who, upon their approach unto Us, have in Your Name both congratulated our undertaking of the Administration of the Government of the Republic of England, and solicited for an admittance for You and People into the Peace lately concluded between Us and the Hollanders: Petitioning (with all) our confirming the Grant lately obtained from the Parliament of Letters, commonly known by the name of Letters of safe conduct. We therefore, pursuant to our obligation, return our thanks for so friendly a Compliment, and ●…ave freely assented to the said two petitions, as being disposed to improve all future occasions, which may at any time express our affection towards You, And are of opinion that You have had the same communicated unto You at large, by Your said 〈◊〉, whose fidelity and diligence in this affair have been apparent. What I have to add is sincerely to wish You and affairs prosperity and tranquillity.  
Westminster, June 27. 1654. I am your etc. most affectionally OLIVER Protector of England, Scotland and Ireland, etc.  
To the Count of Oldinburgh.  
YOur Letters of the 2. of May from Oldenburgh, are come to hand, and obliged me not in a single degree, for that the Letters themselves were so pregnant with singular kindness & affection towards me and withal delive●…ed by the hand of the most Illustrious Lord Count Antonio, Your most beloved Son. That that I apprehend myself most dignified by, being the knowledge I now have of his virtues, whorthy so noble Ancestors of his extraordinary behaviour, & finally of his singular affection testified unto me now beyond words. Nor ought it to be a thing disputable, whether he gives his Relations at home inducements, to hope his inheriting the qualities of his worthy, and Noble Father, whose clear virtue and prudence administered the continuance of many years interrupted Peace to the People of Oldenburgh, and cherished them with the effects of tranquillity among the severe Storms of War, blowing from every Corner. Why should I therefore do otherwise then value the Alliance of such a Friend? whose conduct is so wise, and provident, so as to be able to avoid the enmity of all people. It is finally for that gift alone, Most Illustrious Sir, that I am thankful; It is out of regard to justice, and Your merits that I 〈◊〉 subscribe myself  
Your most &c. OLIVER Protector of England, etc. Westminster, 29. June, 1654. To the most Illustrious Lord ANTHONY GUNTER, 〈◊〉 of Oldenburgh & Delmhorst, Leid in Jehven & Kniphausen.  
OLIVIER, Protector of the Republic of England, Scotland, Ireland, etc. To the most Serene Prince CHARLES GUSTAVUS, King of Sweedland, Goths and Vandals, Great Prince of Finland▪ Duke of Esthany, Carelia, Bremen, Verde, Stetin, Pomeranie, Castalies' and Vandale, Prince of Russin, Lord of Ingry Wismare, as also Duke Palatin of the Rhine, Bavaria, Jul. Clivia, and Duke of Monts, greeting.  
Most Serene King.  
THe choice made by Your Majesty of communicateing unto us by your most friendly letters that in particular, which common same has for some days dispersed over all the world, of the delcent of the Government of the Kingdom of Sweedland upon you, and that to the great content of the people, and the free suffrage of all persons, i●… no slender argument of your great affection towards us, and an honour not of the meanest degree. We therefore freely and with Justice congratulate that addition of dignity to Your most singu 〈◊〉 merits, and reward very worthy of so great a virtue, and do, with united prayers to God, wish, that which we are confident you do, namely, that the same may prove to the good, and prosperity of Your Majesty the Kingdom of Sweedland, and the Interest of all Christendom. But as to what you mention touching your disposition to the alliance lately contracted between England and Sweedland, and acting our part towards its support, as also that Your Majesty will endeavour not only the 〈◊〉, but likewise the improveing (if it were a thing fesible) the league now established, were an injustice to call to question the sinc●…rity of: The faith of so great a Prince having engaged for't: whose extraordinary virtue has not only won an everlasting inheritance in the affection of strangers abroad, but has been so powerful▪ as to have invited 〈◊〉 most August Queen, daughter of Gustaves (whose m●…tch in all manner of good qualities many past ages could not produce) to make a resignation of the Government to you without either your knowledge or seeking. Be pleased therefore to be confident that your so singular affection unto us, and so clear a signification of your mind, are circumst●…nces of utmost acceptance unto us; and that nothing shall promote more our delight, then to oblige your kindness with our endeavours never to be wanting as far as they can be made serviceable,  
Westminster 4. July 1654. Your Majesty's most affectionally OLIVER, Protector of England, Scotland, Ireland, etc.  
To the most 〈◊〉 Ludovico Mendesio de Haro.  
WHat you write me, Illustrious Sir, of the most Serene King of Spain's having appointed, and nominated a person to come hitheir under the character of his E●…bassadour to congratulate with me my undertaking in the 〈◊〉 of England, as it is a thing in itself justly grateful, sovour 〈◊〉 study and quickness of care has rendered it so much the more so, who to heighten the obligation, have been pleased to be the first admenisher yourself: For to have the love and affection of one, who, by his prudence and virtue, 〈◊〉 gained so much Authority with his own prince, as to influence, (like yourself) matters of the greatest moment in that Kingdom, aught to be no less pleasure to me, then ●…nunderstand the good opinion of a most Excellent person, to be an ornament to me. But as to any disposition of mind to wards the most Serene King of Spain, in reference as well to the Support of an alliance with that King, as readiness to improve it daily more and more, I hope, I have satisfied the Ambassador here, in that point, and may do it plentifully to him that is to succeed him. I wish that the figure Moreover, and favour, under which you now move most Illustrious Sir, may be durable; and that what ever you manage, or administer for the good of the public, may end in aprosperous and happy 〈◊〉. 〈◊〉 am most Illustrious Sir, Your Excellencies most affectionately.  
OLIVER Protector of the Republic of England, Scotland, 〈◊〉, etc. Whitehall, September, 1654.  
To the most Serene Prince, CAROLUS GUSTAVUS ADOLPHUS, King of Sweedland, Goths and Vandals, etc.  
AS Your Majesty's last Letter, answered by me with a suitable Reply, represented Your Majesty's singular love to me, so the consideration of our Friendships seemed to establish such an obligation upon me for the future, that as I communicate occurrences answering our mutual desires, so to observe unto you, as almost dear friend, my sense and grief in instances of contrary effects. I am truly of opinion that the figure I make in this Republic, implies a duty of studying, all ●… can, the common Repose of the protestants in particular. Which heightens our concernednesse so much the more, when we hear of the battles and mutual slaughters acted by those of Bremen and Sweedland upon each other. I am, in the first place sorry to see both our friends engaged in such bloody differences, so much to the hazard of the Interest of the protestant Religion; Next that peace of 52. which was believed to be a main Bulwark to all reformed Churches, should prove the cause of such an uhappy 〈◊〉 that the Arms of Sweedland are now employed to destroy those who, for Religion sake, they would so lately engage in the vigarous defence of: and that now, at a time, when the Episcopacy is reported to persecute the 〈◊〉 all Germany over, & revive former violences and oppressions upon them. Being therefore informed that the 〈◊〉 of Bremen h●…d few days Cessation of arms 〈◊〉 it, I could not truly decline the signifying unto your Majesty by this opportunity, how heartily I could wish, and how earnestly I would pray the God of peace, that that Truce may end in a happy reconcliation of both Parties, and that things be drawn to a peaceable composure equally conduceing to the advantage of both. To the promotion of which, if your Majesty can judge my endeavour capable of contributing oug●…t, I do promise, and freely tender the same, as in appoint of utmost acceptance (without doubt) to God Almighty: And do in the mean time from my hart wish, that God Almighty may direct and steer all Your Majesty Councils, to the public advantage of Christendom; a prayer which I doubt not but may 〈◊〉 with your own inclination too.  
Whitehall October 26, 16545. Your Majesties most affectionately. OLIVER Protector of the Repnblick of England.  
To the most Magnificent and Noble Magistrates and Senators of Bremen.  
I do, with so much the more 〈◊〉 and grief of mind, see by the account brought me by Henry Oldenburgh your Envoy, the difference arisen between your Corporation and your most potent neighbour, and the extremity which you are thence reduced unto, by how much I love and respect the City of Bremen for her affection to the Orthodox Religion beyond others; nor do I entertain any thing more in my wishes, then that the universal name of the Protestants may at length be cemented into a brotherly Union and Concord▪ That the common Enemy of the Reformation does, in the mean space, rejoice at these our contentions, & promote th●…m the more violently abroad, is a thing most certain. But the controversy itself, as it is not the matter now to be debated, I pray God that the progress therefore already made towards a peace, may determine happily. I have, according to you desires, writ to the King of Sweedland touching this matter, sollicitting him to peace and Concord, as a thing of utmost acceptance to God, and acted freely and as jough in a thing of th●…r piety, and ofter it as my opinion that it is not 〈◊〉 viseable for you to stand off, bat bear an affectionate inclination to any conditions of peace that are truly honourable. Comending you and your City, in the mean time, to God's Tuition an Providence.  
Whitehall October 26. 1654. Your highnesses most affectionally O Protector, &c  
OLIVER, Protector of the Republic of England, to themost 〈◊〉 Prince Tarentine.  
YOur affection to Religion, made apparent in Your Letters to me, together with Your extraordinary piety, and singular love to the reformed Church's; more especially the nobility and generosity of the manner wherein; and that in a Government, wherein so many of the Nobility dissenting from theProtestant Faith, receive such plentiful encouragements of preferment, w●…ile on the other hand, such as adhere thereto, are, for that very reason, exposed to proportionable inconveniencies; are instances that have filled me with very much content and pleasure. Nor has it proved lesso delightful to me to have pleased You, by being of that Religion, which is the inducement which principally ought to endear and render you a Subject fit for my esteem. But as to what you mention concerning what the Churches may hope or expect from me, I pray God I may be able to answer the same, one time or other, if they need it, and let the World see how I stand inclined towards it; For I should not truly judge myself better rewarded in any thing ariseing from the station I hold in this my Republic, then to be able to promote the Interest, safety, and (which exceeds all) the repair of the reformed Churches. Let me therefore earnestly desire that the piety and affection with which You profess the Orthodox Faith, transmitted unto You from Your Ancestors, be to the end steadily and constantly adhered unto. Nor will there be any thing more truly worthy both Yourself, and Your most Religious progeny, nor ought wherein I can wishingly express my gratitude in better and clearer acknowledgements of Your Obligations upon me, (albeit I wish all things well for Your sake) then to compose and accommodate Yourself so, as that the Churches, (those of Your Country more especially, under whose Discipline You have had so 〈◊〉 a 〈◊〉 and education) may, in you, sensibly find a protection proportionable to those Merits, wherein you exceed others.  
Whitehall April 1655.  
OLIVER, Protector of the Republic of England to the most Serene Prince Emanuel, Duke of Savoy, Prince of Piedmont, greeting.  
Most Serene Prince.  
WE are, by letters sent us from Geneva, as well as Delphin, and many other places bordering upon your Confines, informed of a proclamation lately published by your Royal Highness, implying that if such of your Subjects, as were Professors of the Protestant Religion, did not, within three days after the publication thereof, either declare their renunciation of their own, and acceptance of the Popish Religion they were strictly charged to forsake their Lands and habitations, within twenty days after upon pain of forfeiting their lives and fortunes: And that having thereupon made humble supplication to your Royal Highness, praying that the same might be repealed, and that they, (taken into former favour) might be restored to the Privileges granted 'em by your most Serene Predecessors; yet they were set upon by part of your Army, who cruelly murdered many, chained others▪ and drove the rest into wildernesses, and uninhabited mountains covered with Snow and desolation, where hundreds of Families are reduced to that extremity, that it is much to be feared whether their misery may not be such, as may soon draw utter Ruin upon them, under the oppression of Cold and hunger. Upon our Receipt of this account, we could not truly decline our being troubled at hart, at so unheard of a calamity imposed upon these most afflicted people. But as we own ourselves united to them, not only as men, but (in communion of Religion) altogether related as Brethren also. We judged ourselves imperfect in the discharge of our duty to God, the charity due to our Brethren, and our profession to Religion itself, did we barely pity this calamity and misery of our Brethren, without applying all the further endeavour we could, towards the meeting 'em with Relief against so many unexpected mischiefs. We do therefore, in the first place pray and beseech your Royal Highness with all imaginable earnestness, to incline your heart to the continueing to your Subjects at Piedmont, those Institutions granted, and from time to times conf●…irmed unto them by your most serene Predecessors. In the allowance and con●… of which, as thoir Grants were, without doubt, conformable to Gods own approval (who has decreed and appropriated unto himself only, the inviolable Government and Jurisdiction of Souls) so there was also due regard held (doubtless) to their merits, who, in time of war, were found equally positive in their loyalty and courage, and of peace, subjects suitably obedient to Government. And as your Royal Highness in all other things bravely and gloriously accomplished, has pursued directly the pattern of your Forefathers, so we do again and again beseech, that you would not begin to act the contrary in this; but that this proclamation, and if their be any other demand made use of, to interrupt your Subjects, upon the score of their professing the Reformed Religion, be abolished; they restored to their native Country and habitations; their former Rights and liborties ratified unto 'em; their sustained damages repaired; and that you cause all their vexations to be drawn to an end. Which if your Royal Highness will See done, you will act a thing of utmost acceptance to God, raise and comfort those miserable and calamitous peopl●…, win the good opinion both of all your Neighbours, and those who admire the Reformed Religion, and more 〈◊〉 Ours, who shall look upon your kindness and clemency to them as the essectof this our Request. Which will draw us under an obligation o making all suitable Returns; and lay a most solid found●…tion not only of an alliance and friendship to be raised, but improved upon, between this Government and yours. Nor do we truly entertain a cheaper opinion of your Justice and moderation of mind in this case. To the 〈◊〉 of whom, that Almighty God may incline your disposition and thoughts: and do heartily wish both yourself and people, peace, truth, and a happy ●…ssue in all your affairs.  
Whitehall May 1655.  
OLIVER, P. of the Republic of England To the most Serene Prince 〈◊〉 Transsilvania, greeting.  
Most Serene Prince.  
YOur Letters of the 16. of December 1654. whom this brings You an account of our receipt of, have shown Us, the singular love and affection You bear Us; Your Envoy who brought and delivered 'em having declared at large Your ambition of contracting a fellowship and alliance with this Government. It did not truly please us in any small degree, to meet with this occasion of declareing and demonstrateing all we can, our inclination towards You, and how much we ought to value that of Your Highnesses. But considering that the account, which we have had of Your clear Obligations upon, and undertaking for the welfare of the Christian Republic, hitherto unknown unto us otherwise then by report, and that all these, besides what You design further to be concerned in, either for the defence or promotion of the Christian Interest, are come confirmed in the letters which Your 〈◊〉ness has been so friendly pleased to send Us: The same have plenti●…ully added to our satisfaction: Namely that it has been God's pleasure to have raised in those Countries, so powerful and worthy a Minister, to the service of his Providence and Glory; who notwithstanding the efficacy of his own power and Arms, desires to join with Us for the Defence of the Protestant Religion, now groaning under the oppression and design of all hands. But God, whose providence has inspired us both (albeit at this distance) with the same inclination and disposition towards the support of the Orthodox Religion, he will doubtless become our Author in such future Resolutions, as may enable Us to be in, and among ourselves as well as all other Protestants and Corporations, a considerable Relief & advantage, in a matter of this consequence, as being truly bend upon all opportunity administered by God, which we shall not, thro' the good help of the 〈◊〉 God, decline the doing our part in the improvement of. We cannot in the mean time, without very great grief observe unto Your Highness, with what inclemency the Duke of Savoy persecutes such of his Subjects, as (inhabitingabout the Alps) profess the Protestant Religion, and whom he has not only 〈◊〉 as many of, as denied to embrace the Roman Religion; to quit their nature Country and abandon all their Possessions▪, but also set upon them with his Forces, who exposed many to most cruel murders, dispatched others with barbarous and invented Tortures, and drove great Multitudes of 'em into the mountains, there to be consumed with hunger and cold, having set fire to their Houses, and goods, (if these Butchers did chance to leave any unplunderd for want of conveyance.) And are very apt to believe that Your Highness could not decline being much displeased at so great a cruelty, when first you heard it, (which I presume may be some time past,) and that you did what you could towards the Relief & assi●…tance of those miserable wretches, if inhuman Murders and Miseries have left any surviveing. We have writ to the Duke of Savoy to divert his Rage from off his People; as also the King of France, that he might do so too; together, with the neighbouring Protestant Princes▪ to let them understand how we resented so inhuman an instance of cruelty: Which albeit it was begun upon these needy wretches, yet its design seems to extend to all that are of the same Judgement in Religion: And so heightens the necessity conveyed unto them so much the mor●…, of taking care of▪ hemselves, and consulting the welfare of all their Friends: Which pursuant to that light, which God has inspired us with, shall always be the very level of our pursuit. A thing Your Highness may depend upon the sincerity of, as that of our love and affection wherewith we heartily wish you a properous issue in all things; Praying that all Your Enterprises and Approaches towards the asserting the Liberty of the Gospel and its adherents may determine happily.  
Whitehall, May 1655.  
OLIVER, Protector, etc. To the most Serene Prince Charles Gustavus Adolphus, King of Sweedland, Greeting.  
YOur Majesty has ere this (and to Your great trouble we presume) had an account of that most bitter Proclamation, reported to have b●…en lately published, whereby the Duke of Savoy has afflicted to the marrow, such of his Subjects inhabiting about the Alps, as style themselves Reform Protestants, and directed, that if in case they did not renounce their own, and embrace the Roman Catholic Religion within twenty days, they should be rooted out of their Native Country & habitations, so that after the murder of many, the rest plundered & exposed to invented Deaths, they wander now with their Wives, and small Children over the wild Mountains in a continual Winter, Consumed wit●… hunger and cold. For the universal hatred of the contrary party, even unto all Protestants, Demonstrates that albeit they differ in some frivolus things among themselves, their cause and interest yet in the main aught to be the same, and almost one. And there is none but knows, that how, upon all occasions, the Kings of Sweedland have joined with the Reformed, and poured their Forces into Germany to defend without distinction the Protestant Religion there: We therefore (and that with more than ordinary earnestness) pray that Your Majesty would in the first place (if You have not already done it in imitation of Us and other Protestant Republics) write to the Duke of Savoy, concerning this matter, and endeavour to reverse (if it be possible) by the interposition of Your Authority) the severitd of this so cruel a proclamation, from off of a People, that are innocent as well as religious: For these so cruel beginnings what do they mean, what may they threaten Us all; is a thing which we judge very unnecessary to advise Your Majesty of. If this man will sligth all our prayers to gratify his own peevish humour, truly we shall, after having first con●…ulted with Your Majesty and the rest of the Protestant Princes (as we ought ●…f, there be any obligation▪ any love or community of Religion to be regarded or observed) fix upon some speedy resolution that may serve timelily to prevent the miserable destruction of a multude of our most innocent Brethren destitute of all help. Which as we do not in the least question to have beeu Your Majesty's sense, and resolution too, nothing can, in our opinion, be more adviseable in this point, than that we all, without the least loss of time, unite our power, Council, Purses, and if there be any thing else that can be judged to stop the further gro●…vth of this evil. In the mean time we heartily recommend Your Majesties to the Tuitionof the most great omnipotent God.  
OLIVER Protector of the Republic of England▪ to the high and mighty Lords, the State's General of the united Provinces.  
Rumour, and the frequent advices and tidings which letters bring you from your correspondents abroad, have ere this we judge, informed you of the Duke of Savoyꝰs late proclamation issued against such under his subjection about the Alps, as have been ancient professors of the Protestant Religion, by virtue of which proclamation, they, unless they embrace the Roman Catholic Religion ●…ithin twenty da●…s, are commanded to quit their Lands and houses, being first stripped of all they have besides. ●…nd with what cruelty the Authority ●…f t●…at Edict has tyranyzed over innocent persons, and (which very much concerns us) our helpless friends, and Brethren in Christ. Many of them being destroyed by a Limb of his forces appointed to that purpose, the rest plundered & forced from home, so that they, with their wives and small Ones, have been for some time, driven into the roughest of mountains covered with continual snow, where they now labour under the oppression of hunger & cold. But your concernednesse whereat, & how you Symphathyzed these calamities of our Brethren, is a thing we can easily gues●… at by our own grief which is truly very great. For we that are but One (as it were) in point of Religion, why should not we be equally such in our concernednesse at so unworthy a misuseage of our Brethren? And truly many are the experiences of your apparent piety to the Orthodox people in times of oppression, and no less favourable to many Ecclesiastical difficulties and adversities, As for my part, I had, (if I know my own mind,) rather been outon in any thing else, then in love and charity to Brethren labouring under affliction and persecution, upon the account of their Religion: For that I would freely give way to the health & repose of the Church, in preferrence to my own par ticular safety. What we could therefore hitherto act in it, was to writ to the Duke of Savoy, almost humbly praying him to entertain milder thoughts and disposition towards these his most innocent subjects and humble people; that he would restore the wretches to their homes and Estates, and put them in possession of their former liberty of Religion. We did the like to the chiefest of the Protestant Princes and Magistrates, whom we judged it most concerning, to join with us in our Mediation with the Duke of Savoy on behalf of this people. You have done the same perhaps & more. For if this so dangerous example succeeds with the Instruments concerned, and this Revival of their late cruelty upon the Protestants thrives with them, to admonish your prudence how far the same may endanger the Protestant Interest, is a thing we judge vunecessary▪ And this person, if he suffers himself to be persuaded by our united importunities and prevailed with to give over, we shall reap a Noble and plentiful crop, and Recompense from our sustained care; But if we should find him wilful so as to endeavour to bring into utter despair, or destroy totally those, who with their own strength, and (free from corruption,) have either preserved our Religion delivered by the original Preachers of the Gospel, or long before it was restored to its primitive purity in all other Nations, We are ready to join with you and the rest of our Reformed Brethren and confederates, in a common Council, whereby the support of the sinking just, may be, with most inconveniency provided for, and let him at length see how impossible it is for us to put up the Injuries and burdensome afflictions of the protestants. Fare ye well.  
To the Evangelicall Cantons of Switzerland.  
YOu have, ere we had it, doubtless, an account of that calamity which those of our Religion about Piedmont, were lately exposed unto, who, being under the allegiance and subjection of the Duke of Savoy, were by their own Prince's prolam●…tion▪ strictly commanded to forsake their Native habitations, if th●…t in three days they gave not satisfaction of their Turning to the Roman Religion, and thereupon soon set upon with Arms, and destroyed by the forces of their said Duke: many also driven into banishment, do now with their wives and children, wander most miserably over the deserted mountains loaded with Snow etc. where they are ready to perish under the afflictions of hunger, cold, nakedness & want of places of habitation There is less reason why we should doubt of your being equally troubled at your first receipt of these Tydeings, and it may be more, proportionable to your Neernes to them in point of Neighbourhood in excess of us. For your singular affection to the O●…hodox faith, and great Stedd●…nesse in adhering as well to, as resolution in defending it, is a thing we very well know you to be inferior to none in. Therefore as ye are in the stir ctest comunion of Religion Brethren unto, or rather incorporated with these wretches equal with us; of which Body not one Member can suffer affl●…ction without the sense, t●…e smart, the detriment, and the hazard of the whole: we have thought fit to write and signify unto you, how much we judge it concerning us all to help, 〈◊〉 comfort (all we can) & that in a common, ●…id and assistance; the want and distress of our Brethren; and make timely provision for the removeing not only their mischiefess and misfort●…es, but also stopping the further growth of any danger, which (by example or chance may be created us▪ We likewise writ to the Duke of Savoy, earnestly entreating, that he would out of his clemency, treat his most fa thfull people more gently, and that he wou●… restore ●…em already almost destroyed, to their goods and 〈◊〉. And do very well 〈◊〉 that these our letters, or rather the joint importunity of this Nation may easily induce a most Glorious Prince to listen to what we have, with so much Toil, petitioned him for. But if he should happen to persist, we are ready to join advice with you, concerning a means to be fixed upon, for the preservation of so many most innocent Persons, labouring under the yoke of so m●…ny oppressions and vexations; comfort and bear up our most dear Brethren in Christ, and protect them from most exquisite and unworthy ends. Whose health and safety your piety leads (lamb confident) very much to study the preservation of: For my part I would neglect my own most important concerns, yea my life, to make way for it. Adieu.  
Westminster May 19 1655. OLIVER Protector. To the most Illustrious and Noble Lords the Councils and Senators of the Protestant and confederate Towns of Switzerland. greeting.  
To the most Serene and potent Prince Lewis, King of France.  
YOur Majesty's letters in answer to mine of the 25. of May, plainly show how little I was misled by that opinion I entertained that those late most inhuman slaughters and barbarous butchery, commited by certain squadrons of your Army, upon the persons of such in the Duke of Savoy's Country, as profess the protestant Religion, were not the effects either of your direction or Command, and am exceeding glad truly of your having so timelyly signified unto your Commanders (who unbidd committed these inhuman outrages pursuant to the dictates of their own inclinations) how much the same displeas●…d your Majesty, and the notice you took of so great a Cruelty to the Duke of Savoy himself, and withal your having with so much sincerity and humanity interposed and employed your Interest, friendship and power for the bringing back those miserable banished people, to the place where they were driven from, and might well expect that that Prince word have done some thing at the desire and request of your Majesty. But apprehending that yours, nor the solicitation and pressure of other Princes, can no way incline him in favour of the distressed, I hold it consistent with the duty of my province, to depute this noble person under the character of our Ambassador extraordinary to the Duke of Savoy, to tell him plainly, how I take his useage of the Protestants, though for no other reason, than out of detestation to the Religion itself. And do truly hope, that the account which this Embassy comes to, may prove so much the more successful, if Your Majesty will be pleased to adhibit a fresh, and with more Instance, your Authority to, and endeavour in the thing. And as your Majesty has undertaken unto that Prince, for their future fidelity and Obedience to Government, so be pleased to make some provision likewise sor their safety and security, against any the like Injuries, and most cruel affronts, that may be offered for the future, to the Innocent and peaceable: This, as it is in itself an act of Justice, and truly becoming Majesty, and no less suitable to your benignity and Mercy, who secures the peace and safety of such of your own Subjects in all places, as profess that Religion, so we cannot in any reason decline the expectation of, from your Majesty, which, in this very work, will make a thro' conquest over the hearts of all the Protestants inhabiting your own Dominions, who in times of difficulty, have been already found of unexceptable affection and loyalty towards you, as well as show your Neighbours, that Royal Council has no way abetted to this Mischief, whatever Royal Ministers and Magistrates might presume to have done: Especially if your Majesty exacts due punishment, to be examplified upon those Captains and Officers, who, pursuant to their own Wills and Pleasures, have dared to be the Actors of such inhuman villanies, In the mean time, when your Majesty will think fit to show your averseness to the detestation this deserves, I do not doubt but that your Kingdom may, by your allowance, become a reception and secure refuge to those miserable and distressed People, when their address shall seem to call for't, nor that you will suffer, that any of your Subjects give the Duke of Savoy any assistance to their prejudice. What we have to add, is to assure your Majesty how much I esteem your friendship: To the improvement of which I assert to be wanting neither in faith nor ●…ndeavour.  
I am your Majesty's most affectionately OLIVER, Protector of the Republic of England. Whitehall July 29. 16●…5.  
To his Excellency Cardival Mazarine.  
Most eminent Lord Cardinal.  
Upon my resolveing to send the bearer with Letters (whereof the enclosed is a Copy) to the King, I did then direct him to accost your Eminency in my Name, and committed some things to his Trust, to be comunicated to you in particular: Wherein I desire your Excellency to give him full Credit, as being a person in whom I have reposed very great confidence.  
Whitehall July 29. 1655. Your Eminency's most affectionately OLIVER, Protector of the Republic of England, etc.  
OLIVER, Protector &c, to the most Serene Prince Frederick the 3. King of Denmark, Norway, &c greeting.  
YOur Majesty has (erè this we judge, and that as much to your grief as becomes a champion and a Protestant Prince,) had an account of the unmerciful proclamation lately published by Imanuel, Duke of Savoy, for the overthrow of his own Subjects, inhabiting about the Alps, innocent People and men of note and Renown, and that for the sincerity of their Zeal to the true Protestant Religion, for many years past; having driven them out of their native Land, out of detestation to their Faith, and after butchering many, expos●…d the rest, (needy naked, and lo●…ded with all other miseries) unto all the mischiefs and hardships, which those desered mountains usually administer. If the principles of Christianity lays an obligation upon us in general to resent or Sympathise the sufferings of any particular scan●…leing thereof, we do not, if well acquainted with your piety & prudence, know of any that can clearlyer foresee what danger the example and consequence of this Fact bespeaks us all, as well as the protestant Interest, than yourself. We have therefore exercised all freedom in our letters, to let you know, that however you resent this calamity of our most innocent brethren, what opinion or judgement we expect you may entertain of it, the same should be a pattern for our imitation. And, for that reason, have writ to the Duke of Savoy, where we earnestly prayed, that he would treat the poor and meek more spareingly, and prevent the said bloody proclamation's being of any further Force. Which if your Majesty and the rest of the Protestant Princes, have imitated, or otherwi●…e performed, (as we believe you have,) it is to be hoped, that the most Serene duke's, fury may be allayed, and this his Rage appeased, at the intercession and Instance of so many Neighbouring Princes at least. But if he will rather choose to continue his resolution, we declare our readiness to join with your Majesty, & the rest of our Confederates (concerned for the ●…ntrest of the Protestant Religion,) in such a resolution as may provide for their speedy Relief, from their distress, and do what we can for their sasety and Liberty. Our prayers, in the mean time, bespeak your Majesty all health and happiness.  
Westminster May 1655.  
OLIVER Protector etc. To the most Noble Magistrates and Senators of Geneva.  
OUr Letters lately send you to should have intimated the very great grief conveyed unto us from the vast, and unheard of calamities, to which the Duke of Savoy has exposed the Protestants, inhabiting in, and about the Valleys of Piedmont, did we not then make it more our business, to let you know, that we were not only concerned at such their miseries, as it was our care to provide (all we could) for their relief and comfort. Wherefore we have caused a Collection to be levied over all this Republic: which we justly expect may prove such, as may express the passionate affection, which this Land bear to their Brethren brethren in time of such most inhuman persecution. And as we are One in point of Religion, so we ought to admit of a fellowfeeling of their Calamities. In the mean time, while the Collection is a raising, which will take up time; And considering that their want and helplessnes cannot admit of any delay; we have judged it necessary to transmit (with all imaginable speed, to be, before hand, distributed among'em, who shall appear most to need present help & comfort) the present sum: of 2000 li: But in as much, as we know, how much the miseries and Injuries done Inocencyl, affect you, and that you will look upon nothing either painful or troublesome, that may tend to their help and assistance, we have ventured the transmitting the said sum to you, to be distributed among these calamitous people, and give you the trouble of considering in your piety and prudence, of the justest method, pursuant to which, that money may be soon disposed of among the needyest of those people, And albeit the sum is truly small, Yet some what it may be at least towards their present Ease and refreshment, till we grow able to enlarge our charity by sending them a greater sum: And as we doubt not of your accepting of this employment in good part, so we pray the Omnipotent Great God to furnish his own Protestant people with the courage of descending each other in common, and of being a mutual assistance to each other, against the barbarity of their enemy; wherein we should be glad, that our endeavour might be of any use to the service of the Church. Adieu.  
Fifteen hundred pounds of the said sum of two thousand remitted by Gerard Hensh to Paris, the other five hundred shall be taken care of, by Master Stoupely in bills of exchange.  
OLIVER, Protector of England, etc. To the most Serene Prince Duke, of Venice.  
Most Serene Prince.  
As we have been always found manifest 〈◊〉 of your Outdoing your Enemy's, in Instances 〈◊〉 to the promotion of the Christain Interest more particularly, so now more especially, at the tydeing of the late Sea-battle which we no way repine at the success of, although it seems (as we are informed) to have happened some thing to the detriment of our people. For certain of our Traders▪ namely William, and Daniel Williams with Edward Beale Merchants, have, by petition, humbly represented unto us, that a ship of theirs called the Great Prince, employed for their account to Constantinople, was there ptessed by the Grand Signeur's Ministers, and employed to transport Provision and Soldiers to Crete, in which constrained Service while sailing, was, among others of the Turcks' Fleet, which happened to engage with the Venetians, taken, carried to Venice, and by the Gourt of Admiralty there, condemned to the use of the public. As the said ship therefore was, contrary to the approval and knowledge of her Owners, forced into the Turcks' Service, and that he could not disentangle himself, out of the 〈◊〉, being loaded with Soldiers, we earnestly entreat Your Serenity to repeal, (out of regard to 〈◊〉 alliance) the sentence of that admiralty Court, and take care of the restitution of the said ship (having no way deserved ill of your Republic), to her Owners. The allowance of which we have no reason to despair 〈◊〉 obtain (atour request especially) when we find the Merchants themselves entertain so good an opinion of your Clemency: And therefore heartily recommend your great Councils and the affairs of Venice both by sea and Land, to the happy guidance of God Almighty. I am  
Westminster, 1655. Your Serenity's, and the Republic of Venice's very affectionately. OLIVER Protector.  
OLIVER, Protector of the Comonwealah of England, to the most Serene Prince, Lewis King of France.  
Most Serene King.  
SAmuel Mico, William Coran, George Poyner, with several others of 〈◊〉 Merchants have showed us by their humble petition, that they, in the year 1650. 〈◊〉 on board a certain ship called the Unicorn a very considerable part of their Estates, and that the same Ship, with her fight of raw silcks, Oils and other goods (amounting, by their Estimate, to no less than four and thirty thousand pounds sterling) was, by two of your Men of War, set upon and taken in the ●…ranea Sea: that Our Subjects would not, out of regard to the peace that was then between the English and the french, make any violent defence, but refer to the maritime Laws, as being induced thereto by the promises of Paul & Terrer, the Commanders of the said Men of War, who engaged to dismiss the ship upon peruseall of her bills of loading: That the said Merchants employed moreover, & sent into france an attorney to solicit the restitution of the said ship and Goods: where after, the expense of three years and more, when matters were brought to that maturity, as that there was nothing 〈◊〉 to be done but to award sentence for restitution his Emenency Cardinal Mazarine owned unto Hugh Morelly their Attorney, that the Merchants had wrong done 'em; and undertook that they should have satisfaction done 'em as soon ever, as the peace between both nations, and the alliance then under Treaty was ended and ratified: Yea his Excelleecy the Lord de Bourdeaux your Majesty's Ambassador has lately confirmed the same, in express words, pursuant to your Majesty's commands, seconded by those of the Council, and that the said ship and Goods and the peculiar demur, under which they lay, should be taken into consideration, a part from those other controversys provided for the decision of, by the general Import of the Treaty. Of which promise the said Ambassador himself, who by good luck has repaired home upon occasions of his own, can bear Testimony. Upon the allowance of such strong presumptions, and that the Right of these Merchants in the repetition of their Goods, lies so clear, It's our earnest request to your Majesty, that they be put off no longer, and that you would be pleased (at our Instance▪) to render your compliance herewith the leading fruits of the Treaty lately revived, and reestablished. Which we confide in the effect of: wishing that the Omnipotent Great God may influence yourself and Kingdom with all imaginable felicity.  
Westminster December 1655. Your Majesty's most affectionately OLIVER Protector of England, etc.  
To the Evangelicall Cantons of Switzerland.  
THE account transmitted unto us from our Commissioners at Genova concerning your public proceedings, as well as the substance of your Letters of the 27. of December from Tigur, sufficiently inform us in the posture of your affairs (being none of the best we doubt:) wherein albeit we apprehend, (to our trouble) that your peace, & so long continued collateral alliance is dissolved into a Rupture, yet nothing appearing applicable to your fault, the Iniquity & perverseness of your Enemy's may (we doubt not) furnish you with an opportunity of repeating your known disposition & constancy to the Protestant Religion. For the Swi●…zers▪ who condemn (for Traitors any who turn to our Religion, what have they attempted, what have their practices been, to raise malicious spirits against the Orthodox Faith; is a thing that can escape the knowledge of none, who has not totally forgot that most unworthy Massacre commited upon our Brethren at Piedmont. Wherefore, dearest Friends, forget not your former wont, rouse up in God's Name, yield not your Reights, Friends, your Liberty of Conscience, and conscience itself to be trampled in the dirt, under the heels of encroaching Idolatrous; Prepare yourselves therefore, that you may not seem to look like Men, who cared not how the World went, so they themselves were well, but such as reckon the sufferings of their Neighbours their Own, especially theirs of Piedmont; help and comfort those most distressed People all you can: Assureing yourselves that your own sides were darted at, and their deaths and blood made but an Inled of, to reach you. As for my part, know, that your safety and prosperity, are no less the Subject of my care and trouble, than if this Massacre had been executed within the Bowels of this Republic and, as if the Swissers Axes and Drawn Swords (as they truly are against all Protestants) were ready to fall upon our own Necks. No sooner had we therefore had an account of your condition, & the virulency of your Enemy's, but we presently entered into a strict consultation with persons of very great worth, & known piety and affection to the Church, in order to the making such provision for your subsistence, as the posture of our own affairs at home could bear, and came to such a determination, as you may know from our Commissary Mr Pell. What I have to add is the continuance of our petitions to Almighty God that he would be pleased to stand by, and guide all your councils, and take under his more particular conduct, and defend by peace or war (which he thinks most adviseable) this your most just Cause.  
Westminster January 1655. Yours etc. most affectionately OLIVER Protector of the Republic of England, etc.  
OLIVER, P. of the Republic of England, To the most Serene Prince Charles Gustavus, by the Grace of God, King of Sweedland, Goths, and Vandals, Great Prince of Finland, etc.  
Most Serene Prince.  
AS it is a custom of known antiquity, especially among friends, to admit of an obligation of useing all freedom in communicateing to each other, passages of adversity as well as prosperity and comunity, so that most delightful part of friendship relateing to the import of the Letters, which Your Majesty has been pleased to give us the honour of, is what we cannot but take very kindly: Seeing that it is an indication of singular humanity, and true Royalty, to be as communicable in enjoyments, as way of living, and to believe nothing to be pleasant, without it be in community with Friends and Confederates▪ And therefore cannot but justly rejoice at the birth of a young Prince to his Son, to inherit (we hope) the glory and virtue of so good a King, and gladly lay it in parallel with the felicity, and glory that befell Philip of Macedon both abroad and at home, whom Records cite to have conquered the most powerful Greeks, at the very time of the birth of his Son Alexander. For we do not doubt, but that Your kindness to Poland in dischargeing, and▪ as it were, forcing it by the very strength of Your Army, from the papal ●…oke▪ and the establishment of that Peace with Brandenburg; which the desires of all pious men gaped for, notwitstanding the storming opposition made to the contrary, may conduce very considerably to the peace and advantage of the Church. That God may, in the mean time bless such Glorious Begining with suitable Issues; that his Gift of a Son may pursue the pattern of his Father in Piety, Virtue, and noble Deeds: That which we truly both hope, and from our hearts wish the Omnipotent and Great God, (always favourable to Your undertake) may grant.  
Westminster, 1655. Your Majesty's most affectionally, OLIVER, Protector of England, etc.  
To the King of Denmark.  
Most Serene and potent Prince.  
JOhn Freeman and Philip Traverse Subjects of this Republic, have, 〈◊〉 their own, and the names of several other Merchants of London a petitioned humbly complained, that having in the month of October 1653. loaded on board a certain ship of Sunderbrugh called the Salvador, Nicolas Winskins Master, several Merchandizes, woollen manufacture, clothes, and other woven comodities and Goods, amounting (according to Estimate) to the value of between three and four thousand pounds sterling, charged the said Master, that as he sailed thro' the Baltique sea, he should go directly to Dantzick, and pay the usual duty at Elsenor, and for the same purpose furnished him with a competent sum of money. Yetnotwithstanding, t hat the said master most treacherously, and contrary to his Instructions from the Merchants, passed by the said place, without dischargeing that duty; so that the said ship, with her whole loading, had hue and Cry sent after them and were arrested, to the great damage of the Owners, in favour of whom we writ to your Majesty's Ambassador then here in London, who, as they say, engaged, that as soon as he came to speak with your Majesty, he would endeavour to 〈◊〉 justice done the Merchants. But in as much as the said person has been dispatched upon Your Majesty's affairs into other Countries, and that their application to him before his departure, amounted to nothing; so that they were forced to sened an Attorney purposely to solicit their Right at Hafnia, and demand restitution of said ship and Goods: which they also found could amount to no more than an aggravation of the former Reckoning & heap of fruitless trouble upon trouble; & that the said Goods Lie under confiscation & present Restraint, notwithstanding that, according to the Laws of Denmark, a Master of a ship aught, (as they seem to urge in their petition upon any misdedmeanour of his own) to suffer corporal punishment, exclusive to any confiscation that ship or Merchandises can be pretended to be liable unto: and reckon themselves so much the unkindlyer dealt with all, for that the custom which ought to be paid at Essen'or, is (as we apprehend) very inconsiderable. Therefore as our Merchants have given no provocation, that can be interpreted to the rendering their effects liable to forfeiture; and that the Master, a little before his death, confessed that the neglect was wholly applicable to his proper guilt, which exposed the Merchants to so 〈◊〉 damage; and in as much as the Parent of the deceased Master himself▪ has, as we understand, by petition already presented unto Your Majesty, charged all the blame to his son's account, and quitted the Merchants: We could not truly decline our condemning the detention of the said 〈◊〉 and goods to be most arbitrary; and are so much the more strengthened in our confidence, that as soon as your Majesty has a clear State of this thing, you will not only award a competent reproof to the Ministers concerned in these Injuries, but Issue your commands also for the doing the Mercha●…ts Right, and direct speedy restitution to be made of those Goods and reparation of damages sustained, to the said Owuers or Asfignes. Which we instantly pray your Majesty's compliance in, as a thing guarded with so much reason and justice, that we cannot appear in the solicitation of aught on behalf of our people, which we less ought to accept of a denial in, as being ready to make suitable returns on behalf of your Subjects as often as there is like occasion for't.  
To the most Serene Prince John the 4. King of Portugal.  
THE Peace and alliance, which your Majesty's most Noble and splendid Embassy, lately sent hither, sollicitted the Parliament about, (which then had the conduct of this Republic in their hand) We have now at length, thro' God's help, and pursuant to the 〈◊〉 we hold in the Administration of this Government, as well as the affection we always bore theteto, drawn unto a happy 〈◊〉, and such (we hope) as may continue to perpetuity. And therefore return you Your Ambassader extraordinary, Mr John Roderick de Saa Menesses, Count Pennagavad, a per son whose Civil carriage, understanding, prudence and faithfulness, we have found very eminent, and worthy your esteem, and one who having discharged this Trust with extraordinary applause, comes to you with the Ratification of the said Pe●…ce. As to the Import of your letters of the second of April from Lisbona, intimating your good esteem of us, how much you tender our honour, and the excess of your Gladness●… at your ●…earing of our present undertaking in this Government; the same are apparent indications of singular affection, and shall endeavour that all Men may hereafter see from my readiness to serve Your Majesty at all times, that the same is of utmost acceptance unto me. Nor am I in the mean time, less painful in the preferrence of my express prayers to God for your safety, for the happy State of Your Kingdom, and the prosperity of your affairs.  
Your majesty's most affectionatl●… OLIVER, Protector of England, Scotland, Ireland, &c  
OLIVER, Protector of the Republic of England to the high and mighty States of Holland, etc.  
High and mighty Lords, dearest Friends.  
THomas bushel and Richard Bear, with several other of our Subjects have made their joint complaint unto us, setting forth, that a ship of theirs called the Edmond and John did (being set upon in her way between Brasile and 〈◊〉) submit to the assault of a certain Privateor belonging to Vlushing, called the Red Lion, whose Commander went by the name of Lambert Bartelson, but upon such conditions and Terms (〈◊〉 by the said Lambert's hand and seal) as that upon their arrival at Vluissing, restitution should be made of such Goods as should appear to belong unto the English; That upon their arrival there, the ship was acquitted, and the seamen their respective goods restored them, but the Merchant's effects taken out, and exposed to imediat sale; That they, namely the Merchants, who had this affront put upon, did, (upon their repair to Vlushing to demand their effects at the Admiralty Court there) after five y●…ares expensive prosecution, lose the cause with vast charges thro' amost wicked sentence awarded against them, by those Judges, namely they who, concerned in the said Privateer, were themselves both Juges and Jury in the thing; That they have no other hope left 'em, except it be in your equity and incorrupted uprightness, which they now at length fly unto, whom they judge some relief & favour from, if backed with our 〈◊〉 of their complaint to you. And truly this is a thing pardonable in the people▪ if in so great a hazard of their fortunes as this seems to be, they, under an wiversall dread from all hands, consider what they ought to fear from your power and authority, as well as what they were to hope from the integrity of Judges especially in a case where they were themselves 〈◊〉. We do not doubt but that the influence you are under of Religion, Justice and Integrity may, in preferrence to any solicitation of Ours, become an Incentive to you of coming to such a determination herein, as you may 〈◊〉 to consist with Equity and justice, and an act that may become you. God preserve both yourselves, and Republic, to t●…e service of his Glory, and the comfort of his Church.  
Westminster April 1. 1656. OLIVER, Protector of England, etc.  
OLIVER, Protector of the Commonwealth of England. To the most Serene Prince Charles Gustavus King of Sweedland, Goths, and Vandals, Great Prince of Finland, Duke of Esthon, Carelia, Bremen, Verda▪ Stetin, Pomerania, Cassubia▪ and Vandalia, Prince of Russia, Lord of Ingry, Wismar; as also Count Palatine of the Rhine, Bavaria, Jul Clevia, and Duke of the Mounains, etc.  
Most Serene Prince.  
PEter Julius Coitus, having discharged his Embassy here, and so discharged it, as that I thought it a thing unfit to dismiss him hence, without, accompanying him with my opinion of his just merits, which he now returns to your Majesty with; as being a person who, upon your score (who have a just Right to our highest esteem) was, as (well as for that of his own merits) very acceptable unto us, and no less praise worthy by the most diligent discharge of this Trust. Therefore we freely certify (if any Testimony can add thereto) that he has answered that character which he brought Us, as your Majesties most just gift to him: who may with the same fidelity and integrity relate the singular respect, which we bear towards your Majesty. What we have to add is to breathe our wishes to the Omnipotent Great God to bless your Majesty with all prosperity, and continue the influence of your victories over the enemies of the Church, to perpetuity.  
Westminster April 17. 1656. Your majesty's most affectionately OLIVER, Protector of the Republic of England, etc.  
OLIVER, Protector of the Republic of England. To the most Serene and potent Prince Lewis King of France. S. D.  
APplication being by petition made us, in the names of John Dethicke present Lord Mayor of t●…is City of London, and William Wackfield Merchant, setting forth, that having about the Calends of the month of October Auno 1649. loaded a certain ship called the 〈◊〉 of London, one Lig●…tbagh Master, the whole freight consisting of their own proper goods, to be transported to Ostend, the said ship was seized upon in the mouth of the River of Thames, carried away, and disposed of at Dunkirk, then under the obedience of the Crown of France, and that by the contrivance of a certain Privateer called White belonging to Berkin, who exerciseth piracy, by virtue of a Commission from the son of Charles the late deceased King, contrary to the purport of your Majest●…s proclamations published to the contrary Annis 1647. and 1649; besides some resolutions of Council in favour of the Parliament of England, whereby they (understanding that the transportation of any Goods, or ships taken from the English, dureing that 〈◊〉, into any place under your Majesty's jurisdiction, or suffered to be in any such place exposed to sale was provided against as unlawful) dispatched Hugh Morrell their solliciter to Dunkirk, with directions to apply to Mr Lestrado Governor of that City, and demand restitution of the said ship and Goods, as knowing that they were in a great measure yet untouched in Town; who upon such application replied, not like a gentleman nor one that would seem to be very observable of the Commands of his prince, that his present employ was a benefit comferred upon him in consideration of public & past services, performed in the King of France s Service, & that he therefore intended to make as much improvement thereof as he could (as if comisionated to Robb his neighbours.) Upon which disappointment, the said solicitor, after a great expense both of money and time, coming home, the peti●…ioners (destitute of all other hopes other then what they imagined they might meet with upon appeal to your Majesty's Clemency and Justice, and believing that our recomendatory Letters in their favour might render their access to your Majesty more facile) pray that you would not decline your help from a people robbed in defiance of all Justice, and in derision of your repeated Commands to the Contrary. Which if obtainable at our importunity; albeit it is truly a thing which seems ver equitable, yet we shall believe it to be rather the effect of your natural 〈◊〉 to Justice, than the fruit of my so●…licitation.  
Westminster May 1656. Your majesty's most affectionately OLIVER, Protector of the Republic of England, etc.  
OLIVER, Protector of the Republic of England, etc. To the high and mighty Lords, the State's General of the United Provinces, S. D.  
High and mighty Lords, Dearest Friends,  
IOohn Browne, Nicolas Williams, with other Londoners, have in a Petition humbly showed unto us, that having severally ventured to the East Indies, by the Ship Good Hope of London, then bound thither, directed their Correspondents at Amsterdam, about the Month of February, 1644. to ensure there two thousand and forty Pounds Flemish: That the said Ship being▪ in her way thither, taken upon the very East India Coast, by a certain Ship, belonging to the 〈◊〉 East India Company; the Ensurer's denied to fulfil their Contract in paying the insured Sum▪ and have so far prevailed, as to be capable, by various delays, to elude our People now after the expensive consumption of Six years in prosecution of their Right Which in regard they look upon as an usage of great oppression and injustice, and that some obliged for the Payment of the Money agreed for, are either already dead, or become insolvent, We earnestly pray that you would (to prevent ●…urther expenses in addition to the said Losses▪ be pleased to suffer your equity, to be a safe Port and refuge to them after so many Years stormy useage, and almost Shipwreck in your Court of ●…udicature; and that Sentence be with all speed awarded concerning their cause, in whose ●…ustice they seem very confident. Wishing (in the mean time) that happine●…s and prosperity may attend all you undertake, to the Glory of God, & the safety of his Church.  
Your High and Mighty Lordships most affectionally, OLIVER, Protector, etc.  
OLIVER, Protector of the Commonwealth of England, To the High and Mighty Lords, the States of Holland. S, D.  
THomas and William Lower, lawful Heirs of Nicholas Lower, lately deceased, on whose account you have had some former trouble giveu you, (about the ●…des of September last I think,) do bawl now a fresh again, alleging, that they still labour under the oppression of their Adversaries, who●…e power, or other private Interest has (notwitstanding the integrity of their claims, and when that could not do, our Letters sent in favour of their cause) ●…o far prevailed, as to hinder them from entering upon the benefit of their Father's will: That being rejected by the Court of Holland, where the action first began, and thrown upon yours, packed thence to Zee-land, and thence hurried back again to your high Court of judicatory (to their content) accompanied to each place with our Letters (For where the height and power is, there they depend upon the dispensation of Justice proportionably) If that fails they are at a loss to know where to cast anchor for relief after the pains they undertoke in pursuit of Justice: For if they find that this our fourth recomendation of their cause can do no good, it will be to little purpose for 'em to extend their hopes any further. We shall reckon it as a true instance of kindness, if after so many rejections, you let them see, that your apprehension of our Authority could contribute somewhat to their Relief in bringing their claim to a speedy determination, as well altogether as have them believe it to be the entire effect of your own Justice and equity. As we can no way dispond of your allowance of the former of which, so we are confident that the consideration of our Friendship will incline you to the later.  
Yours, etc. OLIVER, Protector.  
OLIVER, Protector of the Republic of England, To the most Serene Prince John, King of Portugal.  
Most Serene Prince.  
WHereas several Merchants, belonging the Brazil Company in Portugal, did in the Years 1649. and 1650. become indebted unto sundry English Merchants, in a considerable Sume of Money, upon the account of freight and Moorage, & that the said Society respite the Payment thereof, pursuant to an order of your Majesties to that purpose; notwithstanding that they did truly depend upon the Payment thereof conformable to the Terms, and conditions of the league lately ratified: But fear they may be frustrated in their hope, and other means of recovering their Right, as being informed of your Majesty hayeing seized, and sent to the Exchequer their said debt, and assigned the repayment thereof upon the moiety of your Customs, so that the Merchants are like to have no more than the bare Interest of their Money, the principal lying (in the mean while) wholly dead. Having taken the hardship of which under our strict consideration, the conviction of their just importunities prevailed upon our giving your Majesty this trouble on their behalf, requireing that instant satisfaction be by the Brazil Company, made the Merchants of his Republic, in reference as well to each ma ns demand respectively, as five Years Interest. This as it is a thing in itself consistent with justice, and conformable with the league lately contracted with you, let me on their behalf desire in an amicable manner, that it be complied with without further delay.  
From our palace at Westminster, July 1656. Your Ma●…esties most affectionally OLIVER, Protector of England, etc.  
OLIVER, P. of the Republic of England, To the most Sere●…e Prince Charles Gustavus, by the Grace of God, King of Sweedland, Goths, and Vandals, Great Prince of Finland, etc.  
Most Serene King.  
AS the alliance of so great a Prince, and so famous for his actions, as Your Majesty is, hath ●… just Title to the height of our esteem, so that person, through whose means we have been so strictly allied, I mean that most ●…llustrious Gentleman Christernus Bondur, your Ambassador Extraordinary, must have been (upon that very consideration) necessarily gratful and welcome unto us. Whom therefore (having laudably discharged this Embassy) we could not dismiss hence, without accompanying him with a Testimony of our being highly satisfied in the rest of ●…is singular virtues; as being one who seems to entert●…ine a bel●…efe, that this our recommendation of him may add ' considerably to that value and esteem which he is already in possession of with Your Majesty, in reference 〈◊〉 particularly to the diligence and prudence he exerted in this affair. What remains to be further transacted, we have resolved to send Your Majesty an Ambassador soon about: Whose health God (in the mean time) preserve, for the defence of his Church, and that of the Kingdom of Sweedland.  
From our Court at Westminster, July, An. Dom. 1656. Your majesty's most affectionally, OLIVER, Protector of the Republic of England, etc.  
OLIVER, Protector of the Repbul. of England, &c To the most Serene Prince Lewis, King of France.  
Most Serene Prince, Friend and dearest Confederate.  
WE have had a petition in the names of Richard Baker, and several other Merchants of London, and his Associates, wherein they humbly complain, that an English built Ship, called the Endeavour, William Jopp Master, and hired into their service, was, about the 21. of Novemder 1655. set upon in her way, between a place called the Palm, and the Island of Tenerif (where she put out for London from) & seized by four French Vessels who, in appearance looking like Merchantmen, but armed like Men of War, and under the chief command of one Egedius de la Rock, carried her with her whole freight, consisting in Medera, wines, to the East Indy's, whether they said they were bound; together with most o●… the Mariners, saveing fourteen which they landed upon the shore of Guiny; Which the said Egidius declared the inten●… of to be, to prevent (by planting them in so remote and inhuman a place) the escape of any who might by a declaration of the fact, hurht him For he did own, that he had no directions to meddle either with the English, or others, which he might have troubled before; and with all that he was not ignorant of the English and French's being at Peace at that vety time: But designing to revictual at Portugal, but was prevented therein by contrary Winds, was necessitated to supply his Wants with what he found in that Ship: That he moreover believed he might content the Owners thereof in what damage they didthem. Which, by sworn Testimony, will appear to amount to above sixteen thousand pounds' damage to the Merchants. But yet if People will, upon such slender temptations, venture upon the rash violation, and turn into scorn (as it were) the Decrees of Princes, (whose force ought to be of utmost weight,) so as to exercise 〈◊〉 licentiousness upon Merchants to serve their own Ends, it truly acts towards a total dissolution of the Tie of alliances for the future, the word and authority of Princes will decline; and signify just nothing. We do therefore not only pray, but ●…udge it very much concerning Your Majesty's Interest that those who have dared, to make so slight a matter of being the first Breakers of their King's Contract, and most sacred Word, have speedy punishments executed upon them, suitable to the nature of their perfidiousness and insolency; and that the Owners of the said Ships, do in the mean time, make our Merchants full satisfaction for the damage, and prejudice which this act has injuriously exposed 'em unto. God's care be Your Majesty's continual Guard, and become the defence of the affairs of France against both our common Enemy.  
From our Court at Westminster, August An. Dom. 1656. Y●…ur Majesty's most affectionally OLIVER, Protector of England, etc.  
OLIVER, Protector of the Republ. of England, &c▪ To Cardinal Mazarine.  
Most Eminent Sir  
WHen the imporatance of any affair gives me a necessary Invitation of writing to the King. I do judge the same, expediently to include an occasion of doing the like to your Excellency; for to conceal from his knowledge, whose singular prudence alone moderates, with suitable fidelity, advice and vigilancy, the weightyest affairs of France what I write about, is appoint I reckon ' of utmost Inconsistency. That Treaty most strictly established by you, (whose sinceriry were a sin to dispute) we complain of the violation and contempt of, and that thro' the Means of a 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 called Egidius, who with his Abettors, broke the same the very sameday (almost) of its confirmation, as our Letters to the King, and the applications from the Merchants themselves can make appear to your Excellency, who must in particular know how much it concerns not only the Magistrates, but his Majesties own Interest, to see the original Infringers of this Contract brought to Justice. But these perhaps upon their arrival in the Indies, whether they went, may look upon the Goods of our Subject (seized upon, upon the heels if so fresh an alliance contrary to all Justice and truth) as Prised Goods lawfully forced from the Enemy. That that we would have your Excellency (in the mean time) do, amounts to no more, then that 〈◊〉 Owners of the said ships would make good the promise of this Commander in chief, in returning to our people that that may be equivalent to what he has taken from'em, to supply the necestary occasi●…ns o●… his voyage: wherein we understand Your Excellency to be able to do much by virtue of Your Authority.  
From our Court at Westminster, August, A. D. 1656. Your Eminency's most affectionately OLIVER, Protector of the Republic of England, &c  
OLIVER, Protector of the Republ. of England, etc. To the High and mighty States of the united Provinces  
High and mighty Friends and dearest Confederates.  
WE do not (truly) doubt, but that all persons will say, that nothing has been more the design of our making Friends abroad, then in order to the raising of them, as such, for the Interest of the Protestant Religion, nor that has appeared more the subject of our aim, than the uniteing of their hearts, who either were Friends and champions for the Protestants, or who were not their Enemy's at least. Which raises our grief and trouble of mind so much the higher, when we hear of their suspecting and entertaining of suspicions and animosities against each other, who, as Protestant Princes and Republics ought to Cherish one another in all imaginable Sincerity; especially You, and the Kingdom of Sweedland, (two of the principallest Defenders of the Protestant Religion, and the best Friends this Republic hath) not to have that confidence in each other, whick you were wont to have, yea to ●…et appear signs either of a growing difference, or an evident decay of your Friendship. What the causes were, or how far this alienation of mind has extended of either hand, are things which we profess our ignorance of. We could not (nevertheless) but be much troubled at these (though never so inconsiderable) sparcks of disagreements between Brethren, which must necessarily convey a deal of inconveniency to the repose of the Protestant Religion's Interest, and (whichif suffered to go on, (which God Farbidd) how will it endanger the Reformed Churches, how will the Enemy swell and triumph thereat, the (spaniards more especially); is a thing that cannot escape the prudent Ey of one of your experience. The Spaniard will certainly so swell and swagger hereat, as not to fail of rendering it the business of his Embsssadour with you, to obtrude his advices (and that more Confidently) upon you to be guided by; and with the apprehension of raiseing new war partly, and by the prospect, of a false advantage partly; tempt to solicit you to forsake (at his Instance) your old and faithful Friends; the French, English and Sweedes, and engage in a very strict fellowship with one, formerly your Enemy and Tyrant, though now a seeming Friend, and (which is much to be feared) a a conterfeited One. Truly he, who from a most cankered Enemy, shall, upon so slight an occasion, press of a sudden, to become your Counsellor, what is it that such a Man will not assume unto himself? what confidence will he raise to, if he can but once see with his Eyes, such things as are now only the b●…re conceptions and imaginations of his heart; namely to plant discord and civil War amongst the Protestant Confederates? We know that you often, pursuant to your wisdom, take the State of all Europe, and the condition of the Protestant Religion more especially, into your consideration; that such of the Cantons of Switzerland as profess the Orthodox faith, are amused; ●…nd grow pregnant with the apprehension of new troubles from their neighbours the Papists, w●…le yet scare cold from the heat of that Wart levied upon them by the Spaniard, upon the bare score of their Religion, who having inflamed and kindled that war, supplied their Enemy's with men and Money; that the Massacre a●…d destruction executed the last year upon the Protestant Inhabitants of Piedmont, were the effects of Spanish Influences; that the Protestants of Germany under the subjection of the Emperor, underwent intolerable disquiets and with much difficulty held their native habitations; That the King of Sweedland, whom God (we hope) raised as a most curagious champion for the Protestant Religion, was exposed to the necessity of maintaining with the strength of his whole Kingdom, a fowl and rigid War against the most powerful Enemy, that the Reformation has extant; how your own Provinces are threatened by the malicious confederacy lately struck by your Neighbours the Papists, who are the King of Spaine's Subjects; And sinally we, who are taken up by the war declared against the King of Spain. If, while things stand thus, a misunderstanding should happen to arise between you and the King of Sweedl●…nd, what a sad and lamentable condition should Protestancy fall under, all Europe over being subjected to the cruelty, and fury of inhuman Enemy's? The consideration of which doth not a little trouble us; and believe you to be of the same mind, and that you will withal, pursuant to the great affection you always expressed on behalf of the Protestant cause in general, and disposition to the maintaining uninterupted the peace of such, as are 〈◊〉 both in their Judgement and desires, accommodate your counsels to these considerations, which are preferable to all others whatever, and that you will not decline the doing of aught, that may conduce to the establishing of a peace between you and the King of Sweedland. Wherein 〈◊〉 we can ●…e of any service; what ever opinion you may entertain of our Authority or Interest, we most freely offer you the tender of our endeavour, with the same readiness, which we do it to th●… King of Sweedland, to whom we design likewise to send an Embassy out of hand, to let him know our opinion of this affair. And ●…ope that God will incline your minds on both sides to moderate Cowcills, and prevent the falling out of any thing that may give cause of offence on either hand, or carry things to an extremity. But that contrariwise, both parties endeavour to remove what may offend or Administer matter of jealousy to tother. Which if you concur to, you will ●…oth disappoint your Enemy's, and become a comfored to your Friends, and finally provide plentifully for your own, and the safety of the Republic: And do pray you to rest likewise very confident in this, that we, as often as we are supplied with an opportunity for it, shall employ our endeavour towards the rendering the united Provinces sensible of the great affection and love we bear'em. Sollicitting God wit●…all, with our daily prayers, that he would be pleased to bless your Repulick with a flourishing peace, riches, Liberty and more especially love and true worship, to the Christian faith.  
From our Court at Westminster, August 1656. Your etc. OLIVER, Protector.  
OLIVER, Protector of the Republ. of England, etc. To the most Serene Prince John King of Portugal,  
Most Serene King.  
THomas Maynard has, upon the 11. of July last (old stile) delivevered into our Receipt, your Majesty's Ratification of the peace concluded by your Ambassador at London, as well as of the private and preliminary articles thereof, and by letters then transmitted hither from Philip Meaddaw our Envoy at Lisbona, understand that he has delivered your Majesty ours likewise, pursuant to our direction to him on that behalf: the aforesaid Instruments of Ratification being about the beginning of June last interchanged. So that a most firm Peace is confirmed between both Nations. From which peace we have derived no small pleasure; for that we judged that as it bespeaks a general advantage to both, so it doth a proportionable detriment to the common Enemy: Who as they have been the first Inventors of means to interrupt the former alliance, so they have lefr nothing unattempted to prevent its renovation now. Nor do we doubt of their slipping any occasion that can be improved towards the creating matter of suspicion and offence between Us. Which we have truly resolved to employ our utmost endeavours and constancy in opposition of; yea it's our earnest desire that the alliance may strengthen our confidence in each other daily more and more, so as to reckon those our Enemy's, who, by any artifices, shall appear to employ any project towards the lesseningh our friendship among ourselves, and those contained in this Ratification; and are verily persuaded that Your Majesty is much of the same mind. And whereas Your Majesty has been pleased (in its Letters to Us under the 24. of June new Style, and delivered unto our Envoy some days after the mutual exchange of the Instrument concerning the establihed Peace) to mention some Clauses of this Treaty, which you would have altered, as things which, though of small moment to this Republic in Your Majesty's opinion, yet of very great consequence to the Kingdom of Portugal, We shall be found ready to treat apart about such things as shall be propound on Your Majesty's behalf, and settleing such things as shall seem to either party to conduce to the further strengthening or binding the same: Wherein we shall observe such measures as may equally conduce to the satisfaction of Your Majesty and People, as our own, and refer to your choice where you will have all these things debated, either at London or Lisbona. But this Treaty being already confirmed, passed the lawful Firm of both Nations, and mutually interchanged; to alter any part of it, were to destroy the whole, which we know is a thing far from Your Majesty's seeking. We wish Your Majesty all prosperi●…y and happiness.  
From our Court at Westminster August 1656. Your Majesty's most affectionately OLIVER, Protector of England, etc.  
OLIVER, Protector of the Republ. of England, etc. To the most serene Prince John, King of Portugal. S. D.  
WE have had an account of that base and wicked attempt, made towards the Murder of Philip Meadows sent hence under the Character of our Envoy, to treat with you touching a peace: The cruelty of which has appeared so great, that his escape is the sole effect of God providence and care of him. And do by your Majesties Letters of the 26. of May delivered by Thomas Maynard, understand, that your Majesty, moved at the indignity of the Fact, Issued your commands in pursuit of the Assacinates, in order to their being brought to condign punishment: but do not yet hear of the apprehension of any of them, nor that your Commands concerning them signified any thing. We have therefore thought fit to declare openly how much we resent that base and barbarous attempt, and the approach it made towards its design: And require that due punishment ●…e executed upon the Authors, Confederates and Instruments concerned in that Villainy: And the sooner its done, and People of honesty, utmost integrity, and who study the Peace of both Nations, appointed to inquire into this affront, whereby the whole may receive a thro' inspection, and the Authors of the villainy, and those that employed'em, punished with the great or severity the better. For without which, it will 〈◊〉 rain your Majesty laws of ●…njustice, nor will the reputation of this Republic be vindicated; nor can any true friendship subsist between both Nations, without its correction. We wish Your Majesty all felicity and good luck: remaining  
Erom our Court at Westminster, August 1656. Your Majesty's most affectionately OLIVER, Protector of the Republic of England, &c  
OLIVER, Protector of the Republ. of England, etc. To the most ●…llustrious Lord Count Mariano. S. D.  
Most illustrious Sir.  
THE indication of Your singular Love both to me, and this Republic, contained in Your Letter of the 25. of June, last to me; as also the import of others▪ scent me from Philip Meaddow, whom I sent to the King of Portugal to treat with him about the conclusion of a Peace, wherein he gives us a full account of your extraordinary Parts and endeavour in the Transaction thereof, has obliged us very much by what I 〈◊〉 from the Import of the said Letters. This last consirmation I have received with very much content, and am so far satisfied in the Issue of things, as that you shall never have cause to repent of whatever you have 〈◊〉 contributed 〈◊〉 the promotion of this Peace, 〈◊〉 your sincerity to the English, nor of your faithfulness, exerted in this point to His Majesty: It 〈◊〉 (thro' Gods assistance) to be hoped, that this Peace may be very advantageous to both Nations, as well as of contrary effects to the Enemy. All the misfortune and ill luck that attended thi●… affair consists in that wicked attempt basely projected against our Envoy Philip's Meaddow, Against whose unknown Authors there ought to be no less care taken, then in Instances of manifest Roguery: Nor 〈◊〉 I doubt of Your King's Justice and severity in punishing so deep a piece of villainy, nor of your 〈◊〉 promotion thereof in particular, as one, whose practice is Justice and Piety, and make it your business to continue both Nations in amity and peace: Which can no way subsist, if such wicked attempts shall be suffered to escape unpunished and unvindicated. But your know●… detestation of that villainy renders it unnecessary for me to enlarge any further upon it for the present. As I have therefore assured you how ready I shall (at all times) be to demonstrate my sincerity towards you; That that remains is, to let you know of my having recommended very fervently both you and all yours to the favour and protection of the Almighty.  
From our Court at Westminster, August 1656. Yours, etc. OLIVER, Protector of England, etc.  
OLIVER, Protector of the Republ. of England, etc. To the most Serene Prince Charles Gustavus, King of Sweedland, Goths and Vandals, etc.  
Most Serene King, Friend and dearest Confederated.  
WHen I consider that Your Majesty and I, concur both in disposition and resolution, in reference to the defence of the Protestant Religion against it s now (if never before) malignant Enewys: Thence it comes to pass, that as your prosperous Successes & tidings of your daily (almost) Victories adds to our satisfaction, so I am very much troubled at that one thing, which disquiets, and destroys this our united content, and that is, to hear, among other news, that your former understanding with the States of Holland doth not stand as well as it did, and that things 〈◊〉 carried to that State 〈◊〉 you (〈◊〉 the 〈◊〉 Zea especially) as to draw seemingly towards a Rupture. The causes I know not I must confess; I visibly see that without it please God divert it; it will very much devolve the Protestant Interest. Wherefore we thought it becomeing that nearest relation wherein we are united to you both, and (pursuant to that love and affection to the Reformed Religion, which ought to be a principal inducement to us all) to repeat unto Your Majesty now those perswa●…ions which we highly pres'st upon the States of Holland to list●…n unto, of Peace and Quietness. Every Corner swells with Envy against the Protestants; they seem to have conspired our destruction as being never pregnant with more malice. Witness Piedmont loaded but yesterday (as it were) with the blood and Massacre of those miserable wretches; Germany quashed by the late Edicts and proscriptions of the Emperor; witness Switz●…rland. What need there many words to overhall the memory and grief of so many fresh calamity's? Who knows not but that those Massacres, Distractions and Vexations, to which the Protestants were for three Years together exposed, were the effects of Spanish Cowcils, and those of Roman Pontificates. If to so many mischiefs a civil dissension among Protestant Brethren be added; among you more especially, in whose Power, Riches and constancy the greatest safety left to the Reformed Churches, is (as far as human help is to be depended upon) lodged: It will unavoidably hazard the Reformed Religion itself, & plunge it into the depth of danger. Whereas on the other side, if the Protestants universally join in that brotherly unity which becomes them to do, we need fear nothing that the arts, or power of our Enemy's can do to hurt us; whom our Concord alone will baffle and disappoint. I therefore in an extraordinary manner pray and beseech Your Majesty, that you would be pleased to apply a willing and well disposed mind to the confirming the former understanding with the States of Holland, if in any point the same b●… slacken or abated. If in any thing my endeavour, faith & diligence can be thought of use towards an accommodation; I do promised and tender you the same. God in the mean time bless, and prosper the success of what I wish; which is, that Your Majesty's affairs may prosper and run in an interrupted stream of felicity.  
From our Court at Westminster, August 1656. Your Majesty's most affectionately OLIVER, Protector of England, etc.  
OLIVER, Protector of the Republ. of England, etc. To the States of Holland.  
High and mighty Lords, dearest Frirnds.  
WIlliam Cooper a— Londone●… and our Subject made his complaint, that John la Mair an Amsterdamer & his father in Law, did about thirty years ago; invent a means of raiseing the Revenue of your Republic ●…arr higher than it was, and that without any extraordinary burden to the people; and made a Covenant with one John van den Brooke, importing that upon some consideration between 'em, he should receive the moiety of such 〈◊〉 as should redound from the said Invention, which was the 〈◊〉 of the small seal in the provinces. In consideration of which your mighty Highness were pleased to settle the yearly allowance of three thousand Guilders (which amounts to three hundred pounds in English money) to be paid annually to the said van den 〈◊〉 and posterity: But now, albeit the said Invention of the small seal has been found very easy and expedient, and of a considerable advantage to your Highnesses and the other Provinces, yet no part of the said settlement has been made good to this day, although sought with much sollicicitation. So that he the said van den Brooke, and lafoy More being tired out with delays, that affair lawfully descended to the said William Cooper our subject; who out of a desire of receiving the effects of his Father in Laws Industry, applied unto us by petition, praying that we would recomend this his Request to the consideration of your Mighty Highnesses; which we thought unfit to de●…y ' him in. Wherefore make it our friendly request to Your Mighty Highnesses, that you would please to give a fair hearing to the petition of the said William Cooper, and take care that the stipulated Reward of Industry, and so just a stipend, and for so many years past, with a yearly 〈◊〉 for the time to come, be paid him. Which as we doubt not of your Mighty Highness' free allowance of, as a just thing and worthy Your Bounty; so we shall be on ou●… part ready to show the like just disposition to your People in their Requests, as often as we are in that nature applied unto.  
From our Court at Westminster, September, Anno Dom. 1656. I am your mighty Highnesses most affectionally, OLIVER, Protector of England, etc.  
OLIVER, Protector of the Republ. of England, etc. To the most Serene Prince Lewis, King of France.  
Most serene King, Friend, and dearest Confederate.  
IT is with violence to our inclination, that so many complaints of ours, against the injustice of your Subjects, should happen to pursue the peace reestablished with Your Majesty: But as we are confident that our sufferings are no way the effects of your consent, so we cannot be wanting to the Complaints of our People. It is evident that the Capture of the Ship Anthony of Deep was lawful prize, if the Sentence of our Admiralty Court be consulted with; which says, that her seizure happened before the Treaty was concluded. Part of which Prize, to the number of about four thousand Hides more or less, Robert Browne Merchant of London, bought of those who had the overseeing of the public sale: Upon his sending, selling, ●…d calling for the price of about two hundred of which Hides from a certain Skinner at Deep, he complains that the same was stopped and arrested in his Correspondents hands, a quarrel fastened upon him, so that he cannot attain to Justice in that Court. Wherefore we have thought fit to desire Your Majesty to cause the whole matter, to be brought before your Council, and that money disengaged from that most u●…just restraint. For if what were commited before the conclusion of the Peace, shall be liable to be called into question and Judgement after its confirmation: We do not see what a Treaty can signify. For there can be no end of quarrels of this kind, if some severe punishment be not timely awarded these frequent Peace-Breakers, which we hope Your Majesty will take speedy care to see done▪ Whom God honour with his most holy Def●…nce.  
●…om our P●…llace at Westminster, September, 1656. Your Majesty's most affectionately, OLIVER, Protector of England, etc.  
OLIVER, Protector of the Republ. of England, etc. To the most Serene and Potent Prince John, King of Portugal.  
Most Serene King.  
THe peace between this Republic and the Kingdom of Portugal, being now transacted, and all due provision and 〈◊〉 ●…ken of Trade. We have thought it a thing 〈◊〉 and necessary to dispatch the bearer Thomas Maynard to your Majesty, to act in your Kingdom as Consul; to hear and determine matters of debate usually ariseing amongst Merchan●…. But in regard it often f●…lls out, that the nature of his employ may necess●…rily require 〈◊〉 to your Majesty, relateing as well to the Interest of this Nation, as Trade, in general. We desire your Majesty, that as often as he has occasion of being h●…ar'd, you will please to allow him the liberty of approaching to, and being heard by your Maj●…sty, which shall pass with us for an evident argument and singular Testimony of your esteem of us. That the omnipotent great God may (in the mean time) prosper all your Majesties undertake.  
From our Court at Westminster October 1656. Your majesty's most affectionately OLIVER, Protector of England, etc.  
To the King of Sweedland.  
Most Serene a●…d Potent King.  
ALbeit your Majesty's wont and natural disposition to men of merit is such, as to reckon all additional commendations unecessary, yet we could not dismiss this worthy Gentleman Sir William Vavasor Knight a person of note in warlike discipline, and now upon his Journey towards you, with out accompaining him with the trouble of a letter to your Majesty. Our freedom in the doing of which was prompted so much the mor●…, when we were told that much of his time & blood has been spent in the pursuit of your service, and in many battles fought on your behalf: So that the late Kings of Sweedland have, in consideration of his warlike skill and true courage, often exerted in war, settled Landsand annual Pensions upon him. Nor do we doubt but that he may be of future great use to your Majesty in the present Wars, as being faithful and of known skill in Martial discipline. It is therefore but what he merits, if we recomend him to your Majesty; that the allowances granted him by them formerly, be paid. This we will take very kindly; nor shall we, upon any the like occasion that may offer grudge, to gratify your M●…jesty, whom we wish all hapy●… and prosperity unto.  
From our Court at Westminster Octob. An. Dom. 1656. Your Majesty's most affectionately OLIVER, Protector of England, etc.  
OLIVER, Protector of the Republ. of England, etc. To the most Serene Prince, John, King of Portugal. S. D.  
Most Serene King, Friend and dearest Confederate.  
Thomas Evans Skipper, and one of the Subjects of this L●…d, complains that, having served the Brasile Company Annis 1649. and 1650 in a small vessel of his, of about forty Tuns, and whereof he was himself Master, the said vessel, with all her Freight and apparel, was taken from him, pursuant to a command of your Majesties: So that the damages done the man, besides the loss of six years' profit, amounts (according to the Report of the Commissioner appointed by the League to decide differrences on both sides,) to above seven thousand pounds sterling or twice that number of Milreis of Portugal, Which proveing such a great affliction to the a foresaid Thomas, so as to be constrained to repair to Lisbon to recover his Right according to Terms of the Treaty, humbly prayed us, that we would gra●…t him our Letters to your Majesty: We, (although we did the last year writ on behalf of those merchant's cause in Common, to whom the Brasile Company is indebted, yet that we may be wanting to none justly requireing our help): pray, that the consideration of our friendship may be an inducement to your Majesty to take particular care of this man's case, & so direct your people, that nothing may, in your City, stand in this man's way, which may interrupt his demanding & without delay recovering forthwith what ever the said Company or any others ●…an accountable to him in. God incr●…se your Majesty in perpetual felicity, and render our friendship d●…eable.  
From our Court at Westminster Octob. An. Dom. 1656. Your M●…jesties most affectionately OLIVER, Protector of England, etc.  
OLIVER, Protector of the Republ. of England, etc. To the Illustrious and Magnificent City of Hamburgh.  
Noble, Magnificent, and worthy Gentlemen, dearest Friends.  
James and Patrick Hay, Subjects of this Republic made us their heavy complaint, setting forth, that being the lawsul heirs to a third brother called Alexander, who died intestate, and so declared by a sentence of your Court, pronounced thirteen years ago against his widow, awarding the petitioners the Estate of their said Brother, dedueting only her portion; could not hither to, either by by their own solicitation, or the interposition of the late King Charles (who writ to that effect,) received he benefit of the said sentence; That the purse and ●…ntrest of one Albert van Eisen, a great Man among you, (in whose hands great part of this Estate lies) are made use of to keep them out of their Right, who Acts all he can to prevent their Recepit thereof. Being thus eluded, shamed oft with delays, and at length reduced to great poverty, and supplicateing that we would not suffer them to sink under the oppression of a Corporation that's our Friend. And looking upon it as a principal branch of our Office to deny our assistance to none of our Subjects in cases, wherein our help and protection are justly called for and applicable, our Request to your Corporation shall not exceed what may be easily obtained, and that is; to give the said sentence its due force, without suffering your Justice to be further suspended, or the said Brethren exposed to any the like future delays whatever; for we have consulted and accordingly herewith send you under Hand & Sealed the opinion of our learned in the Law, awarded here concerning their cause. W●…erein if Intreatys cano●… do, the Laws of Nations must 〈◊〉 such other methods as we would willingly avoid the pursuit of, and which we are confident your prudence will invite you to prevent.  
From our Court at Westminster, Octob, 16. A. D. 1656. Yours most affectionately OLIVER, Protector of England, etc.  
OLIVER, Protector of the Republ. of England, etc. To the most Serene and Potent Prince Lewis, King of France. S. D.  
Most Serene and Potent King, Friend, and dearest Confederate  
OUr Letters of the 14. of the May last was twelve Month are (we suppose) come to Your Majesty's hands, containing acomplaint made by John Dethick, than Lord Mayor of the Cit●…y of London, and William Wackfield Merchant, who declared that a Ship of theirs, called the John, laden with their proper Goods, to be transported to Ostend, was snatched away from out of the River of Thames' mouth, and carried to Dunkirk, by a cer●…ain Privateer Comissionated thereto, by th●… Son of Charles Stuart: That they (pursuant to your Proclamations and Decrees of Council prohibitting the admission into, or s●…le of any Ship taken from t●…e Parliament of England, in any of your Po●…ts) praying Monsr. l'Estrade Governor of that Gitty to command the restitution of the said S●…ipp and Goods; had an answer ●…o way truly suitable to the worth of a Gentleman, nor such as would seem▪ inclinable to show obedience enough to his King's commands; namely that the King of France conferred that Governership upon him in Consideration of services in the Wars; moreover, that he would take care to improve it all he could (right or wrong for sooth he did not seem to matter which) As if your Majesty had bestowed this Governership and office upon him to rob his Neighbours with and Wipe his breech (as it were) with Edicts proclaimed in their favour. If the King of France will be no more concerned at injuries done us by our 〈◊〉, then b●…ly to forbid his Subjects from abetting therein a Royal Governor has, in his connivance thereat, not only violated and despised a Royal prohibition, in suffering us to be robbd, and made a prey of before your doors, but he himself is the Robber and made a prey of us, and owned himsel●…e openly to be Author of the Fact. T●…e Merchants therefore pu●…t off with this answer; provoaked and eluded, went away with a flea in their Ears: Our letters of last year's date carried Your Majesty an account of this affair, though to as little purpose we must confess (for we we have yet seen no answer thereto) The reason why was, we believe, because that Governor attended, about that time, your army in Flanders; he lives now at Paris, or rather Rants up and down, City and Country loaded with the spoils of our people unpunished. This therefore brings your Majesty a Repetition of our said demands, which concerns your Majesties own Interest principally to provide for, that none dare to heighten the thing by adding the contempt of Royal Edicts to Injuries done his Neighbours: This matter cannot be properly referred, or carried before the Deputies or Commissioners appointed to the decision of Controversys on both sides; seeing it goes beyond the Right of Society, Royal Authority and the reverence due to that name is struck at. It is to be truly admired, if Merchants will be more concerned at their sufferings, than your Majesty at yours, namely the diminution of your honour. Which if you will not suffer, you will at one stroke show, that it doth not repent you of any friendly office which those most friendly Edicts might have intended in favour of us and this Republic, nor that you have connived at the sufferings of our people, nor that you would not listen to our Demands. I am, in affection, friendship and fellowship,  
From our Court at Westminster An. Dom. 1656. Your Majesty's most affectionally OLIVER, Protector of the Republic of England, &c  
OLIVER, Protector of the Republ. of England, etc. To the most Serene and Potent Prince Frederick the 3. King of Denmark, Norway, Vandals and Goths; Duke of Slesvice, Holsatia, Stormaria and Dithmarsia, Earl of Oldenburgh and Delmenhort, etc. S. D.  
Most Serene King, Friend and dearest Confederate.  
THis brings you an account of our Receipt of your Majesty's Letters of the 16. of Frebuary from Hasnia, brought by amost worthy Gentleman Simon de Perkinn your Ambassador here; The peruseall of which, and the very weight of their contents, did so affect us, that we did forthwith resolve upon sending unto your Majesty One, furnished with such Instructions as should enable him to open unto Your Majesty at large our sense of this affair. And although we continue still under the same inclination, yet we could not hitherto fix upon one fit to be entrusted with a Matter of that importance, as we hope we may in very little time. We did in the mean time, judge it inconsistent with conveniency to suspend any longer the letting you know for a truth, how much our thoughts and Care are taken up (and that in an imoderat measure) for the present State of Europe: We having, from several Years observation, collected to our great 〈◊〉, matter enough to infer from, that the principal Protestant Princes and Corporations (who out of regard to their comunity in Religion and its support, aught to use all means tending to its confirmation and defence) grow daily more and more animated against each other, and suspect, or put an ill meaning, upon whatever the rest attempt or project; freightening their friends, while on the contrary they dictat hopes to the Enemy of ensuing Enmity and dissent in this Bent of affairs, rather than a firm union of minds to the mutual safeguard and defence of each other. And truly this anxiety made the deeper figure in our minds, and continues to gain daily, from some sparks of Jealousy, which seem to remain unquelled between Your Majesty and the King of Sweedland; or at last from your being at greater distance in your minds, than our common love and affection to the Orthodox Religion seems to call for; whilst your Majesty entertains (by what fate I know not) a Jealousy that the Trade of your Kingdom may receive some prejudice from the King of Sweedland; who is likewise little better satisfied, but that you may aggravat the war, wherein he is now engaged, and render the Terms of peace, which he might otherwise make, more intricat. Your Majesty cannot but, from that great prudence exerted in all your affairs, know, how much it will expose the protestant Religion, if such suspicion continues long among you, and how much more, if, (which God forbid) any token of hostility should break out. However these things stand, we, as we have earnestly sollicitted both the King of Sweedland and States of Holland to peace and moderate resolutions, (and should be extraordinarily glad to see you reconciled to peace and concord, the States having sent us the heads of that league) so we reckoned it our part, and very consistent with our friendship, not to co●…ceale from your Majesty what ever we thought of this matter, especially when we consider the most friendly invitation given us by your Majesty's Letters so to do; a thing we look upon to be a singular argument, and embrace it as one, of your good disposition towards us. And lay before your Majesty what a charge divine providence has laid upon the professors of Protestancy, of maintaining peace among ourselves, when our Enemies (now especially if never before) seem so violent against us, as to have conspired, as it were, from all places to our destructiom. It helps not to overhall the Blood and Massacre, wherein these at Piedmont lately Swum; nor those of Germany tore to pieces by the Edicts and proscriptions of the Emperor, nor finally the furious assaults of the Popish Swittsers upon their Protestant Neighbour. If to these misfortunes a falling ou●… among protestant Brethren be added, as Oil to quench fire; especially among you, who are so great a part of our strength, and in whom so much o●… the Protestant Protection and strength is reposed in ticklish times; Reformation must (as far as human power can reach,) go down and be destroyed. When on the contrary, if you cherish peace among your selvas as Neighbours, and the rest of the Protestant Princes, if brotherly concord be of all hands studied, we shall have no reason to fear (with God's help) what the artifice or force of our enemy can do Us. The dissipation of whose designs depending wholly upon our agreement. Nor do we truly fear, but that your Majesty, will contribute all it can (and that's much) towards that end. Wherein I shall (my self) be very ready to join Issue with your Majesty as a Professor of true friendship, and one whose study shall be not only in maintaining the peace already so happily established, but also go as far as God shall be pleased to suffer me to go, towards the improveing that now existent. God, in the mean time, bless and prosper all your undertake▪ jam in friendship, alliance and affection.  
From our Court at Westminster, Decemb. An. Dom. 1656. Your Majesty's most affectionately OLIVER, Protector of the Republic of England, &c  
OLIVER, Protector of the Republ. of England, etc. To the most Serene and Illustrious Prince and Lord, the Lord William, Earl of Hasnia, Prince of Herefield Count in Cattimelibock▪ Decia Lingehain, Nidda and Schaumburgh, etc.  
Most Serene Prince.  
WE would not have respitted the answering your highnesses Letters so long, (of which we are almost ashamed) did not many other affairs, of utmost importance truly (which our charge in the administration of this Government would not suffer us to defer the dispatch of, much against our inclination) prevent it. For what Letters ought I to entertain with more regard, than such as come from a most virtuous Prince, and related to a Race suitably Religious, and which concern nothing so much, as the Repose of Religion, and the reconcileing of Curches to concord; and which also, not only in your, but in the opinion and judgement of the Christian world, aught to be generally attributed unto me as an honour to be the promoter of the Christian peace? And truly what we have endeavoureded towards it, thro' these three (formerly) Kingdoms, what have we accomplished (thro' divine help) by perswadeing, suffering, and conquest; is a thing not unknown to most of our own people, and that which they are very sensible of in the great tranquillity of their conscience. We have studied the repose of all the Churches, thro' out Germany more especially, where they have been most, and longest at variance; and have been, for a considerable time passed, wanting in nothi●…g that could contribure thereto. We continue the same inclination still; We wish the said churches may be united among themselves in brotherly charity. But we are, to our very great grief, more than sensible, how difficult a Task he undertakes, who takes upon him the reconciliation of such (as pretend only) to be Sons of peace▪ For it is a thing to be scarce hoped ever to see the Resormed and Augustins brought to one Church; nor preaching nor writing will be able to reconcile their opinion, nor prohibitted without violence; But violence is a thing inconsistent with the peace of the Church: dissenters may be prevailed upon by Prayers, to act more meekly and moderately at least, nor ought they to grow the cowlder among themselves; Differing not as enemies but friends, 〈◊〉 at variance in frivolous matters, yet most united in the main point of Faith. We shall never own ourselves weary in the repeating and perswadeing of these things; which the strength nor council of man can exceed: God▪ whose peculiar work it is, will in his time do it. You have in the mean time, Most Serene Prince, left a famous declaration of your inclination to the Churches, as ●…n everlasting monument, becoming your family, and a pattern fit for the imitation of all Princes hereafter. We do, pursuant to your deserts, pray that the great good God may bless all your other undertake with as much felicity as you yourself can desire, and continue you in your present mind, no alteration being able to mend it▪  
Westminster March An. Dom. 1656.  
OLIVER, Protector of the Republ. of England, etc. To the most Serene Prince, the Duke of Courland.  
Most Serene Prince,  
YOur kind entertainment of our Ambassador, during those few days, he stayed in Your Country, in his way to the Duke of 〈◊〉, has, beside other considerations, showed Your Highness' opinion of us; who hope that your own natural disposition, added to our interposition, may 〈◊〉 Your Highness not toalter those inclinations of your kindness towards us now; ●…n the case of John Jameson a Scotchman, who having 〈◊〉 you seven years, and that faithfully, as Master at Sea, delivered a Ship of yours lately commited to his charge, in her Ballast, to the care of a Pilot, upon her arrival (as the custom is) in the Mouth of the River, and made out by good evidence, that discovering the ignorance of the said Pilot, did all he could to advise him, so that the miscarriage of the said Ship can be no way imputed to him, but wholly to the un skill fullness or obstinacy of the said Pilot. Admitting which, it's our earnest Request to Your Excellency, that the said Shipwreck be not laid to the said John the Master's charge, nor the wages remaining due to him stopped therefore, upon that score; which is what he has left to subsist, comfort himself with, or take to in the end, having, by a precedent shipwreck, lost what he had a little before.  
Westminster, March, Anno 1657.  
OLIVER, Protector of the Repbul. of England, etc. To the Noble Consuls and Senators of the Commonwealth of Switzerland. S. P. D.  
Most Noble, Magnificent Gentlemen,  
WE have been always of opinion, that in Industry, Riches, and Practise of Arts and Sciences, the Fame of your City might vie and stand in competition with any the Noblest City▪ s whatever: Now having chosen to take part with Poland, rather than Sweedland, in that War, which has for▪ a considerable time raged upon the Frontiers of your Country, it were truly to be wished, that the consideration of that Religion which you profess, and of the ancient Commerce between you and the English, had inclined you to the choice of such Resolutions, as should seem to consist with the Glory of God, and the dignity and splendour of your Corporation. We therefore pray that the Alliance established by the length of custom and now extant between the English Nation and you, & my name, (if it may add any thing,) may induce you to set at liberty the Noble and famous Conismarek, the chiefest among the Sweedish Captains, a singular person in warlike discipline more especially, and who has been casually, and thro' the Treachery of his People, betrayed at Sea and by the Law of Warr (not yet got to the height of bitterness) made Prisonner: But if you should chance to Judge it inconsistent with the present posture of your affairs to free him that then you would please to render his Confinement more easy. Whatever of these two you happen to resolve upon, you will resolve upon that which will be truly and principally consistent with the reputation of your Corporation; and consequently beget the esteem of all Noble Commanders & oblige us more especially in an extraordinary manner what ever you think it may avail you.  
From our Court at Westminster, Anno Dom. 1657. Your most affectionately OLIVER, Protector of England, etc.  
OLIVER, Protector of the Republ. of England, etc. To the most Serene and Potent Prince and Lord, the Emperor, and Great Duke of all Russia, Lord of Voladomar, Muschow, Novogrady, King of Kazin, and Astracan, Syboria, Lord of Vobsco, Great Duke of Noucgrod, and of the Law Countries, Chernigoy, Rezanscoa, etc. Lord of all the North Seas, also Lord of Everscoa, Cartaluisa, and many other Places. S. P. D.  
THe antiquity of the alliance, great and generally noted Trafficq, together with the vast and ancient commerce for along time observed between this Government and your people, but (Great Emperor) that 〈◊〉 virtue more especially, wherein you outdo your Ancestors very much, with the opinion entertained thereof by all your Neighbouring Princes; have been our principal Inducement, to cherish that affection for your Majesty, which we do, and communicate thereto, what we may judge not a little conduceing to the Interest of Christian affairs, and suitably subservient to the Glory of your Name. Previous whereto; We have deputed, under the character of our Ambassador to your Majeay, a very worthy Gentlemen Mr Richard Bradshaw, in whose fidelity, Integrity, Prudence, and experience, we have been sufficiently satisfied by his discharge of former Embassys, and who comes fully capacitated, to make kowne the singular affection and observance we bear you; and suitably impower'd to treat with your Majesty concerning the affairs above mentioned Be plase therefore to receive him courteously in our name, and order him, as he shall have occasion for it, 〈◊〉 access to your speech and Ear, with proportionable credit to what he shall propose or transact and that in as full a 〈◊〉 as you would unto us if personally present. We wish that the Almighty and Great God may bless Your Majesty and Kingdom of Russia with all properity.  
From our Court at Westminster April An. Dom. 1657. Your Majesty's most affectionately OLIVER, Protector of England, etc.  
OLIVER, Protector of the Republ. of England, etc. To the most Serene and Potent Prince Charles Gustavus▪ King of Sweedland, Gothe and Uandals, Great Prince of Finland, Duke of Esthon, Carelia, Bremen, Verd, Stetin, Pomerania, Cassuby and Vandal, etc.  
Most Serene and Potent King, Friend and dearest confederate  
WIlliam Jepson Knight, and a member 〈◊〉 our Parliament, who reckons it an honour to have the delivery hereof to your Majesty, comes to let your Majesty know, with what trouble and grief of mind 〈◊〉 we surprised at our receipt of the 〈◊〉 of that fatal war arisen between your Majesty and the King of Sweedland, and how much its become our study and care to advance as 〈◊〉 as God will enable us to go, towards the 〈◊〉 stopping of this growing mischief, and 〈◊〉 to beat back those calamities which this war must necessarily beget to the general concerns of Religion; now more especially, at a time when our adversaries are visibly seen united in their most pernicious counsels, and consequently in their strength against us. These and many other considerations and reasons, of utmost moment to the public advantage of both Nations, have been our inducements to dispatch this very worthy Gentleman under the character of our Envoy Extraordinary to your Majesty, whom we pray you to 〈◊〉 kindly, and throly confide in, in reference to such things as he shall communicate in our name to your Majesty; as being a person whose fidelity & prudence we confide very much in; praying withal that you would not in the least suspect our singular affection and sincerity we bear Your Majesty. Which our disposition of mind, and readiness to Serve you upon all occasions, shall contain real demonstrations of.  
From our Court at Westminster, 1656. Your majesty's most affectionately OLIVER, Protector of England, etc.  
To this Excellency the Lord of Bourdeaux, Ambassador Extraordinary from his most 〈◊〉 Majesty the King of France,  
Most Excellent Sr.  
SAmuel Dawson, John Campsey, and John Nevin Merchants of London, have preferred a petition to the most Serene Lord Protector, setting forth, that they, upon their being informed of the conclusion of the Treaty between this Republic and France, freighted Anno 1655. a ship (called by a Name not answered by her luck; viz. the Speedwell, whereof John Karr war Master) with 〈◊〉 comodities, to be thence transported to Portugal; where having unloaded, and taken in fresh freight consisting in Wines, and other comodities, was, in her way back, set upon about the 24. of November in the said year, and seized by two Men of Warr belonging to Breast, whose Commanders were called, the one Adrian Vindmain Swart, and the other James Jonshon, who carried her to a place commonly called Brivat; where she was condemned as lawful prize, and exposed to public sale, the goods taken from'em being bona fide and really worth eleven hundred pounds, besides the further damage of a thousand pound: That they pursued all lawful means with the Governor and Magistrates of that place to recover'em: That all amounted to nothing hitherto: That they 〈◊〉, pursuant to the Customs of the Admiralty Court, sued out a publication, whereby they were to be sumond and cited to Justice, who were concerned in the capture of the said ship, who 〈◊〉 to insist upon the legalty of their Seizure. That this publication was duly & orderly published & delivered, & 〈◊〉 the public Ministers of the said Court, timelily 〈◊〉 to the French Ambassador; That when none appeared on the contrary side, it was desired that witnesses might be 〈◊〉 and examined concerning the matter under 〈◊〉. Which, as it was presented to the Lord Protector by the petitioners, and by him referred to the cognisance and opinion of the Council; and whereas the affidavits of witnesses annexed to the petition make plain enough, that the petitioners were at liberty to trade with Portugal; and seeing none can be so blind but may see, that the after-seisure of Goods bought and loaded there, is (as we said before) an act contrary to the reputation of the alliance: who cannot but judge it a very 〈◊〉 demand to have the said ship and goods restored, or full satisfaction made of the damage 〈◊〉 from this 〈◊〉, in reference as well to the expense 〈◊〉 in the prosecution at Law, as the goods and ship themselves? Let me therefore desire you in the name of the most Serene Protector, added to my own request to Your Excellency, that you would endeavour all you can, (and therein to employ the Authority of Your Employment too) towards the speedy effecting of either of the two. In regard you cannot labour in a cause more equitable, nor that you can please me more in; who, by how much the earlyer Your Excellency shall appear to have acquitted your 〈◊〉 in what you ought to do herein; by so much the more that diligence shall appear, which I am always inclinable to observe in the allowance of the demands made upon me by my people.  
Whitehall August An. Dom. 1657.  
OLIVER, Protector of the Republ. of England, etc. To the most Serene Prince, the Lord Frederick Williams, Duke of Brandenburg, High Chamberlain of the Holy Roman Empire, and Prince Elector of Magdeburgh, Prussia, Julia, Clivia▪ the Mountains of Stetin, Pomerania, Cassubyes, and Vandals; as also in Silesia, Crosna and Carnovia, Duke Burgrave, Norinbergin, Prince of Halberstad and Mind, Earl of Marca and Ravensbergh, Lord in Ravestein, S. P. D.  
Most Serene Prince, Friend, and dearest Confederate.  
WHereas you 〈◊〉 singular virtue in peace & War, having sounded all over the world with that Renown (such is your Greatness and 〈◊〉 of courage that the ambition of your friendship is gaped at by the neighbouring Princes about you,) so as that none need to desire a friend and neighbour of more fidelity or constancy. We have also (to let you know of our being one of thsoe, who entertain high and clear thoughts of you, and Your Exttaordinary obligations upon the Christian Republic) 〈◊〉 you a very worthy Gentleman William Jepson Knight, and one of our Parliament Men, who comes to Salute 〈◊〉 in our name, bespeak and wish your affairs all happiness, and finally to make known at large the love and great affection. we bear Your Highness: Praying that whatever proposals he makes you, you listen thereto with as much attention and confidence, as you would to ourselves if personally present at the delivery thereof.  
From our Court at Westminster August Dom. 1656.  
OLIVER, Protector of the Republ. of England, etc. To the most Noble Magistrates and Senators of the City of Hambrough. S. P. D.  
Most Noble, Magnificent and worthy Gentleman, Dearest Friends▪  
HAveing directed a very worthy Gentleman William Jepson Knt, and member of our Parliament (upon his going through 〈◊〉 City, in his way to the most Serene King of Sweedland, whether we sent him on an Embassy) not to pass by, without saluteing you in our name; and praying that if in aught he judged your Authority and advice to be of any service to him, you would deny him in neither: The freelyer you show you selves wherein, the more sensible shall you be made of our disposition towards you.  
From 〈◊〉 Court at 〈◊〉 August An. 〈◊〉. 1657.  
To the most noble Magistrates of the City of Bremen. S. P. D.  
Most Noble, Magnisicent and Worthy Gentlemen, Dearest Friends.  
YOu have heretofore, and shall as often as there is occasion for it, be made sensible, how you stood in our opinion, and affection, and that as well out of regard to your Religion as the Renown of your City. Now; whereas William Jeps●…n Kut, a member of our Parliament, and a very worthy person, may in his way to the most Serene King of Sweedland (whether he goes on an Embassy) pass thro' ●…our City, our present request to you amounts to no more than this, that upon his delivery of our Salutes, which he is directed to hand to you, if in any thing he happens to need your help or ●…iendshipp, we have ordered him to propose our ●…ntrest with you as an inducement to your complying with him in any demand he shall make upon you wherein we no less rely upon your allowance of, than you ought to do upon our love and singular affection towards you.  
From our Court at Westminster August An. Dom. 16●…7.  
OLIVER, Protector of the Republ. of England, etc. To the most Noble Corporation of Lubeck.  
Most Noble, Magnificent, and worthy Gentleman, Dearest Friends.  
WIlliam Jepson Knt, a very worthy person, and a Member of our Senate, proceeds under the character of our public minister, to the most Serene King of Sweedland's Court, held not far distant from yours. Do therefore pray that while his Journey happens to continue within the limits either of your City or Jurisdiction, our alliance and commerce may be inducements to you to aid, if need be, and protect him. We moreover directed him to salute you in our name very kindly. and invite you to an assurance of our Clear disposition of mind and 〈◊〉 towards you.  
From our Court at Westminster, August An. Dom. 1657.  
OLIVER, Protector of the Republ. of England, etc. To the most Noble Magistrates and Senators of the City of Hambrugh. S. P. D.  
Most Noble, Magnificent, and worthy Gentlemen, Dearest Friends.  
Philip Meadow, who brings you this, takes your City in his way to Denmark, (whether we have sent him as our Ambassador to the most Serene King of that C●…ntry.) Whom we earnestly recomend to your favour, if in any thin●… he may judge it needful to make use of your Authority or help. Praying that our Recomendation be of no less weight now, than it was always wont to draw with you; who shall 〈◊〉 of nothing from us of an acknowledgement upon a like occasion.  
From our Court at Westminster August An. Dom. 1657.  
OLIVER, Protector of the Republ. of England, etc. To the most Serene Prince Frederick Heir of Norway, Duke of Slesvice, Holsatia, Flormaria, Ditmarsia, Count in Oldenburgh and Delmenhorst.  
We have sent William Jepson to the most Serene King of Denmark, (being a Gentleman of a noble Family, & member of our Parliament,) to treat with him as our Embassader, about an affair that concerns the felicity and prosperity of the peace of Christendom. And have, among other things, directed him to visit and salute (in his way shither) your in our name, and make mention of our former kindness and most constant affection. And desire that your Authority may be employed to secure and 〈◊〉 his Journey through your Country. In which your Highness will oblige us and ours in a more special manner to suitable Returns.  
From our Court at Whitehall August An. Dom. 1657.  
OLIVER, Protector of the Republ. of England, etc. To the most Serene Prince Ferdinando, Great Duke of Toskany.  
Most Serene great Duke, Dearest Friend.  
APplication has been made unto us by petition, in the names of several Merchants tradeing to the Levant Seas, setting forth, that one William Ellis master of a certain ship called the Little L●…wis being by an Otoman Peer hired in the 〈◊〉 of Alexandria, to carry Rice, Suggars with other comodities thence●… Constantinople or Smirna, there to be disposed of to his directions; the said person withdrew from the 〈◊〉 fleet, and, contrary to his Trust, 〈◊〉 the said 〈◊〉 to Livorne: where he disposes of it as prized Goods. Which misbehaviour as it is of utmost 〈◊〉 example, of great infamy to the name of Christians, and a passage that may expose the fortunes of such English Merchants as live in the Ottoman Empire, to Reprisal. We desire that your Highness would Issue your Commands for the apprehension and laying up of the said perfon, securing (in the mean time) the said ship and Goods, till intimation be transm●…tted hence to the said Ottoman Prince of the care taken of the Re●…titution of his said Goods. Promiseing that if your Excellency shall happen to need the like from us, in any Instance of this kind, we shall be as ready to answer it, as we are now to ask.  
From our Court at Westminster, a Dom. 1657. Your Highness' most affectionately, OLIVER, Protector of England, etc.  
OLIVER, Protector of the Republ. of England, etc. To the most Serene Prince and Lord, the Lord Frederick William, Duke of Brandeburgh, etc.  
Most Serene Prince, Friend, and dearest Conf●…derate,  
OUR last to Your Highness by William Jepson, who either already has, or soon may deliver'em, will show you what errand we have sent him upon; and how that we could not have done the same without doing you the Justice of inserting some mentions of your virtues, and the affection we bear you. But to prevent any man's thinking, that our notice of these great obligations of yours conferred upon the Protestant Interest, and celebrated as such in the Report of all Men, is the slight effect of ordinary Custom; we must ●…ay hold upon the same argument now, where, though we cannot be more sincere, yet a little more large we have thought fit to be then we have been, in our expressions towards Your Serenity. And not without cause truly, considering that we are daily told, that notwithstanding all the attempts, that are made upon you by the supple address of Trick and artifices, yet your constancy and loyalty is found to give no way, nor be persuaded to part from the friendship of a most courageous King and Confeder●…t; and that at a time, when the condition of Sweedland is such, as that it is manifest, that your regard to the welfare of the Protestant Religion in general, is the only inducement that keeps you to their Society, and no private end of your own: As also when hemmed in, and, as it were, besieged by private as well as public enemy, peeping from every Corner: to continue nevertheless that steddynesse and comanding-vertue, as that the Judgement of the whole matter & the Issue of this very great War seem to acquiesce in whatever your shall determine. Wherefore your Highness has no re●…son to question, but promise it sel●…e any thing that may be expected from our friendship; who would arraign ourself of all Delinquency, if we did seem to entertain cheaper thoug 〈◊〉 of your fidelity, constancy, and other Merits, or seem less in our acknowledgements to your particular Government upon the common account o●… Religion. As to the delay met with by John Frederick 〈◊〉 your Counsellor and Ambassador here, and our respitting hitherto that reply which, according to our inclinations, we ought to have made to his proposals, we pray that our Highness would impute the same to the condition 〈◊〉 our affairs, and not the said person, whose Industry and diligence act and contend for it; and rest assured, that we look upon nothing more dear or desirable, then to be serviceable and assisting to your affairs so inseparable from the Interest of the Protestant Religion. We, in the mean time, pray in our prayers to to the most Great and Omnipotent God, that your apparent virtue and courage may never sail, fall under oppression, or miss of its due reward and praise.  
From onr Court at Westminster September An. Dom. 1657. Your Highnes' most affectionately OLIVER, Protector of England, etc.  
To the most Excellent Lord, Monsieur de Bourdeux, Ambassador extraordinary from his most Serene Majesty the King of France.  
Most Excellent Sir,  
THE most Serene Lord Protector has had a demand, made upon him by Luke Lucius ' Merchant of London, concerning a Ship of his, called the Maria, which, in her way between Ireland and Bajone, (being by distress of weather forced into a place called the Bay of divi Johannis de Luce,) was there retained and arrested in the name of one Martin de Lawson; nor to be discharged, till satisfied by his Merchant Correspondents, and the propriety of the said Ship and Goods decided by a lawsuit to be comenced between them and the said Martin. The said Martin pretending to a considerable debt due from the Parliament of England upon the account of some Goods of his, which were laid hold o●…, pursuant to the authority of Parliament Anno 1642. But whereas it is manifest that the said Martin had nothing to do with the propriety of the said Goods, but solicited the Right of two Persons Richald and Triat, against one Anthony Fernand, and the said Anthony and Martin at variance among themselves, the Parliament directed that the said Merchandises should be laid up, till the law did determine who of the two had most Right to 'em; the said Anthony, being always ready to go to Law; whereas; nor Martin, nor any for ●…im has hitherto appeared in Court, as may appear throly in the former proceedings annexed to the humble address of the Petitioner; It is a point of very great Injustice t●…at the person who denies to try his pretended Title with Anthony his Colleague, concerning other men's Goods here, should be able to force our people and the true Owners too, to the trouble of proveing their Right to their own Goods there: The most Serene Lord Protector is of opinion, that to be of the same judgement i●… a thing consistent with your equity and prudence too, by whom I have it in command to recomend this case of Luke Lucius the petitioner to your Excellency in an Extraordinar namer: that Martin, who neglects to prosecute the Right of another here, be not sufferrd in that restraint to lay hold upon other men's goods ●…here.  
Westminster October An. Dom. 1657. Your Excellencies most affectionately  
OLIVER, Protector of the Republ. of England, etc. To the most Serene Duke and State of Venice.  
Most Serene Duke, and Senate, dearest Friends,  
WE have such frequent tidings da●…ly brought us of your happy success against the Infidels, that nothing happens to be oftener the Subject of our Pen, then to congratulate with you concerning some signal victory or other. We wish, that this very last One may prove comfortable and of advantage to your Republic, & which is of utmost Glory, a Deliverer of all the Christians laboureing under the slavery of the Turk; More particularly of Thomas Galilee, formerly Master of a ship called the Relief, whom albeit this is not the first time of our recomending to your Government, yet we do it with so much the more freedom now, by how much we consider the length of his Captivity, being now the fifth year: When you commanded him and ship into the service of Your Rebublick, he did, in an engagement with many Gally's belonging to the Enemy, depress some, and commited a great Massacre among others; He was at length (the good Man) taken, his ship burnt, after the good service he did the Venetians, and lives now in the fifth year of his Captivity under the slavery of Barbary: He has nothing left to pay his Ransom; for whatever there was either in goods, ship, or salary, he says it remains yet due from Your Government. But, that means may not be wanting for his Redemption; (●…et the Enemy say they I part with him upon no other Terms, then in exchange of one of theirs of an equivalent price.) We earnestly desire yours, and the serenity of the Senate, jointly, (as doth the most miserable ancient Man his father, pregnant with grief and years, which have truly engaged us in his behalf) that you wound, as soon as may be, out of the multitude of Turkish Prisoners, which so many prosperous battles must have furnished you with, pick out some person which they may accept of, in exchange of one, who has fought so well for you, and is the only son of the most afflicted old man as well as our Subject. And thereupon see that, whatever appears due unto him from your Government upon the account of wages or otherwise, be forth with paid unto either his father, or attorney. Our former interposition, or rather your own Justice has induced you, upon a former inspection made into this matter, and examination of accounts, to order the imediat 〈◊〉 of what was his due: but no payment has pursued that direction, the intervention of other urgent considerations having possibly prevented it. Now the poor man's health can bear with no further delay. You must, if you desire he may live, endeavour to discharge him forthwith out of the filthy sestraint of imprisonment. We are confident that your own most natural inclination will (without any importunity of ours) prompt you to his speedy enlargement: considering that, in justice, moderation, and prudence, you are no less considerable and flourishiug, then in glory and warlike Triumphs. And that you may long continue therein in prejudice of your most imminent Enemy, is the content of our supplications to the Omnipotent Greatest God.  
From our Court at Westminster October An. Dom. 1657. Your Highnsse's most affectionally OLIVER, Protector of the Republic of England, etc.  
OLIVER, Protector of the Republ. of England, etc. To the High and Mighty States of Holland. S. P. D.  
High and Mighty States, Friends, and dearest Confederates,  
WIllam Newport, that very worthy Person, who for some years past, attended here as your Ambassador Extraordinary, brings you this upon his return home: But goes with your permission only, leaveing us, in the mean time, under hopes of his return hither quickly again. His conversation, while here, has been accompanied wi●…h so much faithfulness, vigilance, prudence and Justice, as that we would not, nor can expectmore virtue & integrity (in all respects) from an Ambassador, and a very good Man, so addicted was he to the study and practice of manteining a fair understanding, (void of all deceit and fraud) between us, as that dureing his continuance among us under that Character, we could not see any thing of offence or jealousy that could arise or spring up among us: And truly we would have been much more troubled at his departure (as things seem now to stand) were we not very assured, that none being better, or that with more faithfulness can represent the General State of our affairs, or the sincerity of the love and affection, we bear your Excellency, will force his return hither a gain. Wherefore we pray that you would please to receive him both as a Person, who in all circumstances, has done both our governments extraordinary good service: and dismissed him, (though as) such almost against our will, accompanied with the most genuin' Testimony of our thought of him. God prosper your affairs, in subserviency to his own Glory, the defence of the true Protestant Religion, and perseverance of friendship.  
From our Court at Westminster, Nomember, Anno Dom. 1657. Your Highness' most affectionately, OLIVER, Protector of England, etc.  
OLIVER, Protector of the Republ. of England, etc. To the High and Mighty Lords, the State's General of the United Provinces.  
High and Mighty Lords; Friends, and dearest Confederates,  
WE have (in consideration of the long and clear experience had of his fidelity in several affairs, uprightness, and knowledge) sent you George Downing, Gentleman, under the Character of our Envoy, and furnished him with ample directions accordingly. We therefore pray that you would, according to your wont, receive him kindly, and give credit to what he shall say; as often as he shall signify his having ougt to be (in our name) comunicated to Your Excellency; and likewise commit to him with as little distrust, as if it were to ourselves, whatever you would have imparted unto us. What we have to add, is fervently to wish you all prosperity, in subserviency to t●… Glory of God, and the keeping up of the Church.  
From our Court at Westminster, December 1656. Yours Highness' most affectionately OLIVER, Protector of England, etc.  
To the States of Holland.  
Wher●…as such is the correspondence between this Republic and Yours, and such is the mutual Trasficq, that unless an Envoy or Agent be sent hither thence, or hence thither, matters of that great importance to t●…e advantage of both Nations, cannot be so conveniently carried on. We have, in pursuance of common Custom, determined upon the sending you under that Character, George Downing Gentleman, a Person whom, in the discharge of many and various former Trusts, we found of great faithfulness integrity and knowledge; To continue there in our name, and spend his time in such offices, as may seem most conduceing to the inviolable preservation and continuance of our alliance. Having comunicated these things in writing to the High and Mighty States, we have thought it requisite to do the like to you also, (who in your Province bear so great a part of the government, and are so considerable a limb of the States of Holland) to the end you might receive our Envoy with all convenient decency. And assure yourselves that what ever he treats with the State's General about, or conclude we shall stand thereto as imoveable and steady, as if we ourselves were personally present there at. God direct all your Councils and Actions to his own Glory, and the Repose of the Church.  
Westminster, etc. Deeember, 1657.  
OLIVER, Protector of the Republ. of England, etc. To the most Serene Prince Ferdinando, Great Duke of Toskany.  
Most Serene Great Duke, much to be honoured Friend.  
YOur Highness▪ s Letter of the 10. of November from Florence, has added considerably to our delight, in that the contents thereof show much of your affection towards us, and that in a nature so extraordinary, as to 〈◊〉 the true Image o●… a sincere mind: Your Excellency writes of it●… having, with all imaginable care (we understand) performed our Request, which solicited, that you would ●…ssue forth your commands for the appre●…ending of william Ellis Master of the ship called the Little Lewis (who very dirtily broke his word to the Turcks) and stopping in port the said ship and Goods, till the Turcks had restitution made them, to prev●…nt any disgrace that might ari●…e from such Theft to the reputation of Christianity. We therefore both thank you for this kindness, and withal desire this; that in regard thè Merchants undertook to satisfy the Turks, you forthwith discharge the said Master, ship, and Goods; lest we should seem to take more care of the concerns of Infidels, than those of our own people. Your Highnesses affection has been (in the mean time) so apparent, so 〈◊〉, and so acceptable unto us, that to defer our wishes of being supplied with an occasion of making you suitable Returns, were to own the stain of being reputed ungrateful persons▪ and whereby we might also demonstrate our dispofition of mind in the ready return of our effectual acknowledgements.  
From our Court at Westminster December An. Dom. 1657. Your Highness' most affectionately OLIVER, Protector of the Republic of England, etc.  
OLIVER, Protector of the Republ. of England, etc. To the most Serene and Potent Prince, Charles Gustavus King of Sweedland, etc.  
Most Serene, etc.  
YOur Majesty's Letter of the 21. of February from your Court at Selandia, came pregnant with matter enough to fill us with satis●…action of no small degree, in reference as well to our own private, as the concern of the entire welfare of Christendom: First that the King of Denmarck, (to gratify I believe no private Inclination or end of his own, but driven into hostility, rather by the artifice of the common Enemy) should be, upon your entry into the bowls of his Countr●…, suddenly so reduced, and that without much blood, (that as the case stood) he judged his taking up of arms against you, might be ameanes of his attaining at length to a more advantageous peace: Next concluding that the only means of accomplishing such a peace, was to make use of our interposition if he could obtain it; that your Majesty, prevailed upon at the single ●…nstance of our Envoy in his letter, should, in so easy a condescension, show what value it had for the interposition of our friendship and Interest: and to have been pleased to lodge my endeavour in the front of so pious a-work; so as to become the main Instrument and author my sel●…e of a peace so promiseing as this (I hope) may be to the Protestant Interest. For whereas the Enemy's of Religion dispaired of disuniteing yours, by any other means then that of setting you by the Ears among yourselves, they must now certainly have reason to apprehend▪ that this sudden conjunction of your forces, and of your minds (we hope) may turn to the destruction of the kindlers of this War; Go on in the mean time, (most valiant King) in prosperity, and see that the Enemy's of the Church smart now (thro' Gods help) under the weight of that felicity, which they lately admired in your exploits and stream of victories, against a King now your friend.  
OLIVER, Protector of the Republ. of England, etc. To the most Serene Prince Ferdinando, Great Duke of Toskany.  
Most Serene Prince.  
OUr answer to your Envoy here, may, we suppose, prove of satisfaction to your Highness, concerning the Commander in chief of our fleet lately arrived in your Road. We have been in the mean time) petitioned unto by John Hosier a Londoner, and Master of a certain vessel called the Mistress, wherein he says, that, having in the Month of April 1656 comited by charter party his ship to one Joseph Harman an Italian. and finding that the said Italian apparently broke the Terms of the said Charter party, was forced, (to prevent the loss of ship, goods and adventure, to call him to Justice at Livorn●…, having previous thereto published, (according to the custom of Merchants in like cases) and recorded the Cheat. But that he, to back one fraud by another, seized (by a feigned attach'ment) upon six thousand Pieces of eight of one Mr Thomas C●…atterbuck money in the name of the Petitioner, having (to promote the design) drawn in, two other litigious fellows: That he, after the expense of much money and time, 〈◊〉 not attain to justice at Livorne; nor indeed dared to appear at that Court, for 〈◊〉 of the threaten and snares ●…aid for him by his adversaries. We therefore pray Your Highness to be pleased to lend your help to this Petitioner thus oppressed, and, according to your wont custom, checque the artifice of his adver●…aries: For it totally defeats the d●…signe of such Laws as the authority of Prince's confines Corporations unto, if what violence and injury, for want of the force of a Law, cannot do, terror and Threaten must supply the place of, to keep the Laws from being appealed unto. Yet we do not doubt but that Your Highness whom the Almighty and most High God bless with Peace & Prosperity, will order timely reproof to be awarded these methods of presumption.  
Dated at Westminster 7. April, Anno Dom. 1658.  
To the most Serene and potent Prince Levis, King of France.  
Most Serene and potent King, Friend, and a●…gust Confederate,  
YOur Majesty may call to mind, that when we treated about renew●…ning of the league, (the fortunately laid foundation of which has proved the spring, whence arose so many advantages to both Parties concern▪ d, as well as expose the common enemy to 〈◊〉 〈◊〉) that miserable Massacre befell at Piedmont; whose cause (〈◊〉 and afflicted on all hands) we did, with great 〈◊〉 and 〈◊〉 of mind, recomend to your pity and Relief. Nor do we think that Your Majesty has, as far as concerns your own particular, been wanting to a work of that piety; yea so human, as not to have employed the extent of what you ought to have of favour or interest, with the Duke of Savoy. Our interposition by Embassyes, Letters, and Prayers has, in imitation of other many Princes and Corporations, not been wanting. After the execution of a most bloody Massacre upon both Sexes of all ages, a peace is at length given, or rather a secret kind of hostility, wrapped up and laid under the vizard of a seeming peace: The Conditions of this peace are brought to your Town of 〈◊〉, yea those hard Ones, but such, as those wretched and needy people (tired out with all imaginable hardship and cruelty) would gladly have condescended unto, as hard and unjust as they were, provided they were stood unto; 〈◊〉 the Faith of every single one of 'em is eluded and violated, under false constructions & quibleing equivocations; many being thrown out of their 〈◊〉 habitations; prohibited the exercise of the Religion of their Forefathers; new Taxes exacted; new yokes clapped to their Necks; to that degree, that such as happen to fall in the way of the Soldiers, (who often ●…ally out upon 'em) are either robbed or murdered. To which, add the new Levyes lately and secretly raised against 'em; and such of 'em as are Roman Catholicques commanded to step out of the way within a certain time limited; so that all things seem now a fresh to threaten the Ruin and Destruction of those few, which the last Massacre left undispacht. Which I beseech and pray, tha●… by that Right hand of Yours (most Christian King) which has confirmed the League and Alliance with us, by the most holy reputation of that most Christian Title, you will not suffer to be carried on, nor give countenanceto (I do not mean any Prince for no Prince, much less one of his tender years and motherly Spirit, can entertain so much▪ Tyranny, but those most sanctified Murderers) to the promotions of so much li●…entious Tyranny; The persons concerned, 〈◊〉 they pretend to act as servants and Pursuers of the 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 our saviour Christ, who came into the mansion of flesh to become a sacrifice for the sins of mankind▪) a buseing his most meek name and Laws in the cruel murder of the 〈◊〉. Relieve, (you that can, and who, in such a case, are worthy of the power) so many humble petitioners of yours out of the 〈◊〉 of Men- Bu●…chers, who lately drunk with Blood, would 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 thirst with the same liquor; and who judge it very adviseable to charge the effect of their cruelty, to the account of Princes. But do not you 〈◊〉 your Titles, or the hem's of your Kingdom▪ nor the most 〈◊〉 Gospel of Christ to be (while you reign▪) 〈◊〉 with that envy or cruelty. Remember, that these very People, in the time of Your 〈◊〉 King He●…ry, a great Friend of the Protesta●…ts, 〈◊〉 a submissive People; and Promoters of the entrance of Digvierius, when he, thro' the most accessible places o●… Italy, victoriously invaded the yeeldieg People of Savoy, over the alps▪ The instrument containing that submission remains yet extant among the Record●… of Your Kingdom; wherein it is, among other things, excepted and provided for, that the Protestants about the 〈◊〉 should not ●…e yielded to Any, except it were under the Tea●…mes which Your most invincible Father received 'em upon, into his allegiance.  
This they now lay claim to▪ they humbly require a Grandfather from You his Nephew: They would wish that, if by any exchange it might be done, they might be come yours, rather than remain his, whose Subject●… they now are. Which if it cannot be; you may lawfully become a harbour (at least) comfort, & refuge unto 'em. There are some Intrigues of State, which may render it adviseable for you, not to reject the revolt of the Protestants of Piedmont to you; But I would not, considering the greatness of such a King as you are, propose any other inducement to invite you to the defence of the Calamitous, different from the engagements of your Predecesser's piety, Royal benignity, & Greatness of Spirit: So that the praise and Glory of a most noble deed will be uncomunicably and entirely your own, and you yourself find, that the father of Mercy, and his son Christ, King, whose name and doctrine you will thereby vindicate from all wicked cruelty, will so much the more favour and prosper the remaining part of all your life time. The Omnipotent most Great God inspire Your Majesty with this inclination, for the service of his own Glory, the salvation of so many most innocent Christians now at stake, and your own reputation.  
Dated at Westminster May 1658.  
To the Evangelicall Cantons of Switzerland.  
We have judge it an unnecessary work, to write you about matters, which (you yourselves knowing better byfarr than we) we abhor in our Souls to remember▪ & that out of detestation to the barbarity of the things themselves, imposed upon your most afflicted Neighbours the Protestants of Savoy▪ and the intolerable persecutions which their own Prince has exposed 'em to, upon the account of their Religion. We have also seen a copy of the Letter, which your Ambassadors, solicitors and other persons present at the late Peace at Pinaroll, writ to the Duke of Savoy; and the President of his— Council, wherein they show, & evince, that all the conditions of peace (broke, as soon as made) tended ratherto amus & impose upon the poor people, then provide in any sense for their security. The violation of which, following upon the veryheeles of the grant of the peace, is to this day continued, & their su●…ferings likely to grow worse. If they do not submit patiently, if they do not prostrate & cast themselves downright, to be kicked, & have the Dirt strained through their bodies, & forsake their Religion the same calamity still hang's over their heads, the same Massacre, which has razed & afflicted them, their wives & children most lamentably, but three years a go, is still in view & which if they undergo again, will destroy 'em stock and branch. What will you have the Wretches do? on whose behalf no prayers can prevail, no Ease can be had, no Refuge yet open for; they have to do with wild beasts and Furies, whom the memory of former slaughters cannot call to the grace of Repentance, nor pity towards their Countrymen, quench their Thirst of shedding innocent blood. These things are not, in plain Terms, to be borne with, if we either bear any love to the safety of our Brethren, so an●…ient adherers to the Orthodox Religion, or if we tender the safety of Religion itself. We have, albeit at this great distance, already done it, & shall not forbear our cordial supplying, of what we can, either of help or subsistence towards their Relief. You that are, not only within call of the Groans & clamours of your Brethren, but also stand in the mouth of their Enemies fury, look about you, in the name of the Imortal God, and see timelily what you ought to do on your part, Advise with your own prudence, piety and courage, and consider what you can, or aught to contribut of help or protection towards the support of your perishing neighbours and Brethren. You may certainly assure yourselves that the very same Enemy would, for the very same reason, (being Religion) rejoice at your destruction too; yea consume your confederates in the flames of an 〈◊〉 war the very same time of the a●…oresaid year. The power, next to God, seems to remain in your hand, of preventing the ultimat decay of the reformed Religion, in the ashes of that remaining scantleing of ancient fidelity▪ whom if you now neglect in the height of their distress, take care that the next Turn prove not your own, & that in little time. While we are employing ourselves in the promoteing of these persuasions, as Brethren and plain Dealers, they languish: What we can do at this great distance towards the purchase of the safety of the afflicted, as well as easeing the want of the needy; we have, and shall do all we can. God provide us both that tranquillity and peace at home, and put our affairs in such a conditiou of settlement, as that we may employ all our power and strength and affection for the d●…fence of his Church against the fury and Rage of the Enemy.  
Dated at Westminster May An. Dom. 1658.  
To his Eminency Cardinal Mazarine greeting.  
Most Eminent Sir.  
THe enclosed to his Royal Majesty, as well as the other to your Eminency, are the effects of the intolerable calamities and most cruel Massacre lately exercised by the Duke of Savoy upon such of his Subjects, as profess the Protestant Religion, And albeit I cannot judge so uncharitably, as not to believe, that to a most Glorious King such barbarous proceedings, of destroying the Inocency and helpesnesse of people, must imply much displeasure and offence, yet I am of opinion that what I move about, on behalf of their condition (which is miserable) may not miss of your furtherance & favour towards the procureing of its end; ●…t being a very plain thing that nothing can go further towards the establishing a good opinion of France in the hearts of her Protestant neighbours abroad, then to assert, the grant of the Liberty and Privileges settled upon 'em by the public acts of former times. And truly this was (among other considerations) a Main One, to induce this Republic to engage in an Alliance and League with France▪ Previous to the establishment of which his Majesty's Ambassador has sollicitted here for a considerable time, and things seem now to draw towards a conclusion. The singular sincerity & moderation, which in the conduct of the considerable concerns of the Kingdom, you have testified to the Protestants of France, doth truly induce me to hope for, and rely upon this; and from which, a bottom will be also laid by your Excellency ●…or the raiseing an alliance upon of stricter friendship between England and France, and oblige me in particular to the making all imaginable Returns of friendship and kindness: and would have your Excellency think so.  
Your Eminency's most affectionately  
OLIVER, Protector of the Republ. of England, etc. To the most Serene and Potent Prince, Lewis King of France.  
Most Serene and Potent King, Friend, and August Confederate.  
ALbeit the affability of his society could scarce suffer me to give way to the departure of Thomas Viscount Falkonbridge my Son in Law, who, bend upon a present Visit into France, desired to beenabled to testify the duty and reverence he bears your Majesty, by having a view of, and kissing your Royal hand; yet I did not think fit to balk or withstand his said purpose, or decline his request: When I cannot doubt but that upon his Return after little time from the Court of so great a King, where the conversation of so many very prudent and valiant men is to be had, he may come back better instructed, and as it were, perfected in all manner of good accomplishments, And albeit he is, if I mistake not, one who carries his own Recomendation wherever he goes, yet if he finds himself the more so, upon my account, I shall reckon the favour done myself. God preserve your Majesties safety, and long continue our friendship steady for the Common Good of all Europe.  
Dated at our Court at Westminster May An. Dom. 1651.  
OLIVER, Protector of the Republ. of England, etc. To His Eminency Cardinal Mazarine.  
Most eminent Lord.  
Having recomended Thomas Viscount Falconbridge my Son in Law▪ now bound for France, to the most Serene King, I could not decline ●…omunicateing the knowledge thereof, with a repetition of the like trouble to your Excellency, as being unignorant of the weight and moment the same May be of to the former one. The benefit which he proposes to himself from his stay among you (and he hopes this may be no small one) he cannot but own the most part of to your favour and kindness; whose Judgement and vigilance alone bear so great a share in the Government of that Kingdom. What ever kindness your Eminency will please to show him, reckon it to my account; who shall add it to the ma●… other Instanc●…s of friendship which you have been courteously and amicably concerned in upon my account.  
Dated at Westminster May An. Dom. 1658.  
OLIVER, Protector of the Republ. of England, etc. To His Eminency Cardinal Mazarine▪  
Most Eminent Lord.  
Having sent a very worthy Gentleman Thomas Bellasis Viscount Faulcounbridge my Son in Law, to compliment the most Serene King upon his arrival at Dunkirk; I commanded him to attend upon, and salute your Eminency in my name, and thank you, as the person to whose fidelity, prudence, and vigilance alone, the affairs 〈◊〉 France in divers places, and in the neighbour hood of flanders, more especially owe their prosperity against the 〈◊〉 Enemy the Spaniard; whom I hope, open & prepared force may soon bring to a Reckoning for his fraudulent & underhand dealings▪ wherein consisted much of his defence: Towards the speedy promotion of which, our Prayer and Pikes shall not, as far a●… we are able, be wanting.  
Dated at Court at Westminster An Dom. 1658.  
OLIVER, Protector of the Republ. of England, &c▪ To the most Serene and Potent Prince Lewis King of France.  
Most Serene and Potent King, Friend, and August Confederate.  
AS soon ever as I had an account of Your Majesties coming into the field, and with such a force, to lay a siege to Dunkirk, that infamous Recess for Thiefs; I grew much affected thereat, and began to entertain sure apprehensions that little time might, with God's assistance, render the sea more navigable and less inflected with Rovers, th●…n it has hitherto been; that Your Majesty would bring the fraudulent Spaniards to an account for Hesden and Ostend (being both the purchase of corruption and Bribery) by w●…ning that with your sword, which was jost through the treachery of ill servants. I therefore send Thomas Viscount Falkonbridge my Son in Law, and a very worthy person, to bid you, and the approach of your Camp so nearer, welcome; and to let you know personally, how ready are, not only our wis●…es, but also our united strength, to testify the affection we bear to t●…e good success of your conq●…ests, and our supplications to the Almighty Great God for your safety, and the long continuance thereof, for the common good of Christendom and the friendship wherein we are now engaged.  
Dated at Westminster May An. Dom. 1658.  
To the most Serene Prince Ferdinando, Great Duke os Toskany.  
Most Serene Great Duke.  
THe Purport of all your Highness s former letters having invited us into a dependence upon the sincerity of the disposition you bo●…r us, We are troubled to find that the same has been so obscurely signified unto ●…our Governors and public Ministers, or so ill understood, as that in the port of Livorne (where your good Inclinations towards us ought most to be known) we cannot receive the benefit or Eflect thereof; but the contrary rather; from the Trials which we are forced to contend daily with, of animosities and strangeness. We seem to have more then known the unfriendlynesse, with which those of Livo●…ne lately treated our Fleet, how little help or supply it could receive, and fin●…lly with what hostility entertained, and how it was forced ●…o quit that Port, (as the Testimony of several credible wiltnesses belonging to that place makes appear, as well as that of the Commander in chief of the Fleet, whom as we have entrusted therewith, we cannot den●… belief unto in this point) Upon his first arrival & the delivery of our Letters to Your Highnessse about the Calends of 〈◊〉, your Promises of all Friendship and good Offices passed to our Men, were very large. When, praying the liberty of making use of the conveniency of Port Ferara, the following Reply was given; that the same could not be granted lest the King of Spain (our Enemy) should be offended at it forsooth. And yet what is it that a friendly Prince is more usual in the grant of to his Neighbours, than the liberty of his Port and shore? What is it that we can propose of advantage from such a Friendship, which, rather than offend our Enemy's shall be found ready ere to incomode, then act the contrary, or supply, us in the least of our necessities? And more particularly, that out of every of our Ships, there were not above two or three suffered to go a shore and that conditionally too, videlicet Praticque; That as soon ever as the Town understood and had notice of our having intercepted a Dutch Vessel designed for Sapine with a supply of Corn, there was present admittance. Mr Longland, Precedent to our Factory there, was denied the Liberty of going a board our Fleet: Fresh Water, which is a commodity free for the use of all Nations, that are not down right Enemy's, we could not obtain, but at an ext●…aordinary price, and that under the difficulty of a Guard too: So many of our Merchants, whose Residence there is of no small advantage to your Country, are forbid to visit or help their Countrymen with any thing: Upon the approach of our Fleet about the latter end of March last, none were suffered to go a shore: Five days a●…ter; when by chance one of our Men of war ●…ell fo wl of a little inconsiderable Boat belonging to the States of Venice, and took her▪ your City took it in such a Dudgeon I warrant you as to have accosted us with two hundred Guns, or thereabouts, though without damage, what ever they intended. Which argues how far into the sea from the reach of your Castle and the privilege of your Port these things were commited which you would causlely pretend to be an encroachment upon the privilege of 〈◊〉 port. For presently our Waterboates (than a shore) were set upon before your doors, one taken & detained, and when demanded that without restitution of the said Naple's boot, notwitstanding the justifiableness of her capture, considering where it happened; nor men 〈◊〉 boat were to be parted with, so that our People were 〈◊〉 at last, to rest contended under their losses, and pack away without carrying along what they so dearly paid for.  
If all these things were, (as we hope they were) committed without the consent or command of Your Highness, we desire that you show it in the punishment of that Governor, who made so slight a matter of 〈◊〉 ●…is masters 〈◊〉. But if otherwise, and that you were privy to it, think that as we always valued your friendship at an extraordinary Rate, so we have learned the lesson of distinguishing between kindnesses, and open Injuries. jam. etc.  
Dated at our Court at Westminster, May, An. Dom. 16●…8. Your Friend as far as I may, OLIVER, Protector of England, etc.  
OLIVER, Protector of the Republ. of England, etc. To the most Serene and potent Prince, L●…vis King of France.  
Most Serene and potent King, Friend, and august Confederate,  
THE double amends made me by the quickness by Your Majesty's so Illustrious an Embassy, as it has testified your singular goodness and Grandeur of mind, so it has laid open not only to me, but all England also, the height of the regard you bear to my honour and dignity: For which I do, in theirs and my own name (tender a●… I ought,) you very great thanks. I wish you Joy of that signal victory, which God and our aid has blessed you with over your Enemy, and look upon it as a thing of utmost acceptance to us, to find that our people have not, in that battle, been wanting to your help, the warlike Glory of their Ancessors, nor their own former valour. As to Dunkirk and the hopes your write to be under, of having it soon surrendered; it adds to my content to be able to take notice in writing so soon of its capture: Hoping withal that the double fraud of the Spaniard may be punished beyond the loss of a single City; that the taking of another City may furnish your Majesty with an occasion of being as quick in your Reply hereto concerning the taking of another. As to what you add of your Intentions towards my concerns, that is a thing I no was distrust, as having the word of so good a King confirmed by so worthy a Noble ma●… as Captain Crequi's your Envoy for it; And do wish that the Almighty High God may endow your Majesty, and the Affairs of France with prosperity both at home and abroad.  
Dated at Westminster Jun. An. Dom. 1685.  
OLIVER, Protector of the Republ. of England, etc. To his Eminency Cardinal Mazarine.  
Most Eminent Sir.  
IN the comunication of my acnowledgments to the most Serene King by Letter, (who, to give me the honour of a salute, and an account of his late most noble victory d●…spatcht hither a most splendid Embassy) I should own the guilt of Ingratitude, if I failed in 〈◊〉 your Eminency mutual payment of my acknowledgement in the same Met●…od, who▪ to testify your good disposition towards me, and st●…dy of doing me all the honour lying within your power, have sent your nephew, a ve●…y worthy exquisite Gentleman, adding that if you had a nearer relation, or whom you esteemed more, you would not fail of ●…aveing scent him to choose. To which consideration adding also, that the comei●…g under the approveal of the judgement of so 〈◊〉 a man, is a thing which I deem for no small honour, or ornament unto me; namely that the nearest of your relations, should, in the payment of their resp●…cts and kindness to me, follow the pattern of your Excellency: They may (its probable) look upon this example of your worthiness, Candour and friendship in loving of me, as none o the least; others they may find in you, which for great virtue and prudence, are far fitter to be imitated, as leading to the knowledge o●… Governing and managei●…g the Reins of State affairs. Your Eminencie's long and happy conduct of which, the common Good of the Kingdom of France, the entire Christian Republic, and your own reputation, are instances which we wish all happiness unto.  
From our Court of Westminster June An. Dom. 16●…8. Your Eminency's most affectionately.  
OLIVER, Protector of the Republ. of England, etc. To the most Serene and Potent Prince Charles Gustavus King of Sweedland, etc.  
Most Ssrene and Potent King, Friend and dearest Confed●…rate▪  
AS often as the counsels and various artifices of the common Enemy of Religion come under our deliberation, so often do we enter into a consultation with ourselves, and calculate how necessary and how conduceing to the future welfare of the Chri●…ian world it would be, if the Protestant Princes did among themselves, and more especially your Majesty and this Republic, engage in a very strict alliance, in order to the easy disappointing of the projects of the adversary. The subject of our conversation with your Ambassadors, ever since first they came hither to treat about this business, has evidenced unto'em, how ear●…estly and painfully have our wishes been, and withal how much it would have answered our aim, if ours, and the Concerns of Sweedland were put into such a condition and posture, as that the said alliance might be settled under such an establishment, as might answer both parties expectations equally, and enable'em to be in a capacity of supplying each other with timely help upon any emergent occasion. Nor were they wanting on their parts, who exercised that prudence and diligence in this, which they usually observed in all the rest of their solicitations. But we have been so taken up in looking a●…ter the Treachery of some insolent people at home, (who though often forgiven, yet embark upon new attempts and desist not in conjunction of Rebels (and those Spaniards too) to venture upon Resolutions wherein they were often shaken & defeated) that, employed in removeing of Domestic dangers, we could not hitherto apply that care (which we wished we might) or entire help to the common defence of Religion. Yet what we could have done, we have (as far as we were able) carefully performed before, and if we are apprehended capable of conduceing Aught, that may be thought of future service to Your Majesty's affairs, we shall be not only willing, but also ready to join with you to the utmost, upon any occasion in the promotion of it. We do (in the mean time) congratulate, and from our hearts wish you Joy in your most prudently and resolutely managed erterprises: and continue our constant prayers to God, that he would be pleased to enable your course of felicity and victory to be permanent to the service of his Glory.  
Dated at our Court at Westminster June An. Dom. 1658.  
OLIVER, Protector of the Republ. of England, etc. To the most Serene Prince, the King of Portugal.  
Most Serene King, Friend, and Confederate,  
JOhn Buffield of London, Marchant complains of his having delivered in the Year 1649. certain Comoditieses to Antony Jones & Manuel Ferdinand ●…astaneo of Tamarin, to be by them disposed of by sale, and to be, accordi●…g to the custom among 〈◊〉, accounted for with him: That Fallin●…, in his way to England, into the hands of Pirates, and sufficiently damaged; the said Anthony and Manuel, upon an account had thereof, and beleeveing that he was dead, looked upon the said Goods as their own, and accordingly retain 'em hitherto, denying to come to any account for 'em; And subsequent to this fraud, exposed the said English Goods to open sale; the better to palliate their design: Of his being himself forced at length to repair in the depth of last Winter to Portugal to challenge his own; but in vain; for that he could not prevail with these Persons to return him either Goods, or Money; But found them (which is to be wondered at) justifying the private possession of these Goods, with the pretence of their being the result of a public sale: Being a stranger, and having to do with a People in their own C●…untry (which is worse) he appealed to Your Majesty, and humbly petitioned for his Judgement; who is appointed to the decision of differences relating to the English; but was sent back again by Your Majesty to that Court, that had rejected him. Which albeit it is in itself an act full of iujustice, yet in regard it is apparent that these Tamiran Merchants have encroached upon the reputation of that public Edict of yours, in perverting its intent to serve their own fraudulent Ends: It is our earnest request to Your Majesty, that the cause of these Persons, whose afflictions are manifold thro' the poverty which they are reduced unto, be wholly referred, (as the effect of your Clemency) to the Determination of the proper Judge: Whereby, the unfortuna●…e may rescue the remainder of theirfortunes out of the hands of such a perfidious society, which (the thing, being apparent and clear) we doubt not of Your Majesty's concurring with us in.  
Dated at our Court at Westminster, August A. D. 1658.  
To the most Serene Prince Leopald, Arch- Duke of Austria, President to Philip, King of Spain▪ now in Flanders.  
Most Serene Sir,  
CHarles Harbert, Knt; Petitioned unto us; that having directed the transportation of some certain Goods and other household stuff out of Holland into Bruges, within your Jurisdiction, to prevent their being taken from him by form of injustice, is unexpectedly fallen into the hazard of looseing the same; Videlicet by the means of the Earl o●… Suffolcke, for whom the P●…titioner being engaged for the Payment of considerable Sums of Money, and having in the Year 1643. sent out of England the said Goods as a security to the Petitione●…, to answer any de●…and, which might be made upon him, upon the account of the said obligation: Richard Greenwill, one of the order of Knihthood also, broke in into the place, where they were laid up, seized and keepes'em, in violation of the Terms under which they came into the 〈◊〉 possession: Under this pretence of Right only, that there remained due ●…o 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 know not what from Theophilus' ●…arle of Suffolcke deceased, by virtue of a decree of our Court of Chancry, and th●…t those Goods, as bein●… the said E●…rles, were Subject to the said decree, and therefore ar●…ested them: Whereas according to our Laws, the said Earl, who now is, and whose Goods these are, nor is obliged b●… that decree, nor oug●…t ●…is Goods to be liable to seizure or restraint upon its score; as appears by the Sentence of the said Court herewi●… sent you, at the request of the said Charles Harbert. We pray your Highnsse to see the said Goods forthwith discharged from all restraint, as well as from the unjust action of the said. Richard Greenwill: in regard it is a thing so plainly contrary to the Laws and practice of Nations to give way to the legality of an action in another Land, which in the Land, where the cause of the action originally arose, cannot be lawfully allowed of. The Consideration of Justice itself, and the reputation which you have abroad of an upright man, has induced us to recomend this cause to your Highness. Which if it falls out at any time, that the Right or Concerns of your Sub●…ects come under debate with us in this kind, assure your sel●…e of finding u●… 〈◊〉 way slack; but rather very r●…dy to serve you upon all occasions.  
Westminster. Your Highness' most affectionately OLIVER, 〈◊〉 of the Republic of England, &c▪  
To t●… High Court of Parliament at Paris.  
We the Commiss●…yes of the great Seal of England make it our request ●…o the hig●…▪ Court of Parliament at Paris, that it would be entreated ●…o s●…e care taken, that Miles, William and Mary Sandys Children of 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 and Ellsabeth soame his wife lately dece●…sed, English Natives and under age; be at Liberty forthwith to repair to us hither from Pa●…is where they now remain under the Tuition & Guarranty of the said Court: committing them to the care of James Mowath a Scoth man, and a person of integrity and uprightness, to whom we have assigned this trouble of takeing them thence and bringing of'em hither: engageing that upon any the like occasion or demand, the like Right and Justice shall be by this Court administered in favour of any of the Subjects of France.   

LETTERS Written in the Name of RICHARD CROMWELL Protector Upon the death of OLIVER his Father.  
RICHARD, Protector of the Republ. of England, etc. To the most Serene and Potent Prince, Lewis King of France.  
Most Serene and potent King, Friend and Confederate.  
WHereas my most Serene Father of Glorious memory Oliver, Protector of the Commonwealth of England having, pursuant to the will of Almighty God, departed this li●…e the 3. of this instant September, I declared his l●…wfull Successor in the administration of this Government, could not decline, (not without very great grief and troubie I must confess) the giving timely account of a matter of that importance, to Your Majesty, who I am confident ca●…t, considering your friendly disposition as well towards him as this Republic, conceive any pl●… at this so sudden an account of his death. It is now become my w●…ke to invite Your Majesty into such apprehensions of me, as are fit to be entertained of one, who hath nothing more in his thoughts, than a f●…hfull and constant inclination to the support of that Society and amity, which my iaid most Glorious Father and Your Majesty were concerned in with each other; and with the same study and affection maintain and observe the alliances, Resolutions, and Intelligencie wherein he was engaged with you▪ It is my purpose to continue to our Ambassador there, the powe●… formerly lodged with him. What ever he offers you in our name, accept thereof, I pray, as if tendered you by ourself. That that remains, is to tell you that I wish you all happiness.  
D●…ted at our Court at Westminster 5. September 1658.  
To his Eminency Cardinal Mazarine.  
Most Eminent Sir.  
Although nothing could fall out more to my trouble, then to have an occasion given me of writing concerning the death of my most Serene and Famous Father, and considering the mutual esteem which fl●…wed between your Eminency and him, and that I do not question but t●…at the death of so faithful and constant a friend, must affect one so much concerned in the Government of France as your Eminency is, I have judged it very material to accompany the account I sent o●… this m●…st fatal bus●…nesse to the King, wit●… a Letter to you; and withal to act that that is just, in assureing you of a most sacred per●…ormance of all those things by me, which my father of most Serene memory has been by agreement obliged to y●…u to ●…eepe and perform: and take care that though you may justly lament the l●…sse of one so much your friend and admi●…er, you may not miss him as far forth as may concern the preservation of his promise to you: To the performance of which on your part also, that God may preserve Your Eminency long, and as an ●…nstrument for the promotion of the common Good of both Nations.  
Westminster September 1658.  
●…HARD, Protector of the Republ. of England, etc. To the most Sere●…e and Potent Prince Charles Gustavus, King of Sweedland, Goths and Vandals, etc.  
Most Serene and p●…tent King, Friend and Confederate.  
WHen I co●…sider that it is scarce possible for me to follow the pattern of my father's vertu●…s, without I express it in a desire of retaining & valuing those Interests also, which were both the purchase of his valour, and that which 〈◊〉 judged very adviseable to retain and cherish, You●… Ma ●…sty need no●… q●…stion whether I understand the incumbency of continueing that study and affection towards you, which my father of most famous memory seems to h●…ve entertained. Notwithstanding therefore that I do not, upon my entry upon this G●…verment and its dignity, find things in such a posture 〈◊〉 the present, so as to be able to be so quick in an answer to s●…me heads offe●…r'd by Your Embass●…dours, as I would, ●…et t●… continue the League establish▪ by my father with Your Majesty, & enter into another also of stricter Tearins; is a thing I shall very willingly Listen to. And s●… soon as I have a true state of things as they stand of both sides, shall, as far as concerns me, be always very ready to come to such Resolutions, as shall seem to consist most with the advantage o●… both Goverments: God, in the mean time, long preserve Your Majesty to his own Glory, and the defence and protection of the Orthodox Church.  
Dated at our Court at Westminster October 1658.  
RICHARD, Protector of the Repub. of England, etc. To the most se●…ene and potent Prince Charles Gustavus. King of Sweedland, Goths Vandals, Great Prince of Finland, Duke of Scania, Erthonia, Care●…ia, Bremen▪ verda, & Vandal, Prince of Russia, Lord of Engria & Wismar, as also Count Pallatin of the Rhine, Bavaria, Julia, Clivia, and Duke of the Mounts.  
Most Serene, Potent King, Friend, and Confiderate.  
THis brings you an account of my receipt of both Your Majesty's Letters, the one by your E●…vo, and the other transmitted unto us from Mr Philip Meadow our Ambassador. Which denote not only Your M●…griefe concerning the death of my most Serene father evident & your opinion of him, but of me also his successor, & your expectations of me And as to my father, nothing can truly add to his future 〈◊〉, which for nobility or wor●…h can exceed the praise of so worthy a person; nothing that can portend m●…re good Luck to my undertakeing of the administration of the Government, then to be c●…ngratulated by so great a Congratulator nothing of an estate though never so plentiful, could have adv●…nced so far towards the kindleing an ambition of pursueing the v●…rtue of a father, equal to so considerable a Counsellor. As to what you mention concerning the common safety of Protestancy, and the reasons you offer to draw us into a concurrence of with you, I would have your Majesty believe, that, albeit since my arrival to this Government, the posture of our affairs has been such, as to have taken up and approprinted the Re●…ult o●… our diligence, care and vigilancy to the special consideration o●… matters at home, yet nothing has been, or is dearer, or more in our purposes, then to employ all means tending to the support of that alliance ratified in my father's time with Your Majesty. I have therefore taken care of sending a fleet to the Baltique sea, with such Instrucons, as our Envoy, pursuant to such directions as we ●…ave given him at large relateing thereto, shall communicate to Your Majesty. Whom the Almighty God take care of the safety of, and make ●…ortunate and successful in all your undertakeing; in reference more particularly to the Orthodox faith, for whose defence may he long stand by you.  
Dated at our Court at Westminster October 13. 1658.  
RICHARD, Protector of the Republ. of England, &c To the most Serene and potent Prince Charles Gustavus King of Sweedland, Goths, and Vandals etc.  
Most Serene and potent King, Friend and Confederate,  
I send Your Majesty the best thing I could part with, both in w●…rth and Excellency, I mean Sir George Ascue Knight, a very worthy and noble Gentleman, & a person of long knowledge and Tried experience not only in warlike affairs, especially those of the sea, but also enriched 〈◊〉 integrity, Modesty, understanding, and learning, unwelcome upon the account of his most acceptable morals to none; and, which is above all, now & ●…or some time, under a desire of serveing under Your Majesty's 〈◊〉, so famous every where upon the score of your power in warlike discipline. And would have Your Majesty think, that what ever you please to commit to the care of this man, either of trust or otherwise, wherein faithfulness, experience, and courage is requisite to be shown or exercised, you cannot do it to a more faithful, stout, or probably skilful person. As to what I committed to his Trust to be communicated to Your Majesty, let his admittance (I pray) be quick, his audience courteous, and that very weight laid upon what he says, which you would upon our imediat delivery thereof: show him such respect withal, as you shall judge convenient to be shown to a person of his character, &, for his merits, very worthy of our recomendation. That God may bless your affairs, and assign them a happy Issue, and that to his own Glory and the support of the Orthodox Faith.  
Dated at our Court at Westminster October 1658.  
RICHARD, Protector of the Republ. of England, etc. To the most Serene Prince, Charles Gustavus King of Sweedland, Goths and Vandals.  
Most Serene and potent King, Friend, and confederate.  
COmplaint has been made us by Petition, in the name of Samuel Piggot of London Merchant, setting forth; his having lately sent two ships (the one called the Post, Jacob Tidd Master, and the other the Water dog Graband Pieters Master) from London into France. upon the account of Trade; thence to Amsterdam with their loading of salt; thence to Stetin near Pomerania in the Baltique sea within your jurisdiction, the one in her Ballast, and the other with her freight of salt, loaded at the joint cost of the petitioner and one Peter Hensbergh, who was his copartner; But that both the said ships were, as he understands, set upon and taken by some of your Forces in some part of the said sea, and retained; Although he has (to prevent this mischief) sent a Certificate under the seal of the Admiralty Court, with both the said ships, testifying that, 〈◊〉 the moiety of the said herring, the sole propriety of both lay peculiarly in him. Which having made clear proof of before us, I 〈◊〉 desire, that in regard the loss of both the ships cannot be without very gre●… prejudice to the man, and, it may be, the 〈◊〉 of his whole fortune: Your Majesty would charge and command your Subjects to discharge the said ships without the least delay of time. God preserve your Majesty long, to the service of his own glory, and the Protection of the Orthodox Church.  
Dated at our Court at Westminster Jan. 27. Ann●… Dom. 1658.  
RICHARD, Protector of the Republ. of England, etc. To the high and mighty Lords the States of West Friesland. S. D.  
High and mighty Lords, Friends and dearest Confederates.  
Marry Grindar Widow has, in her petition to me, made a great complaint against one Thomas Killig rue now a soldier in your service, who to escape the paying of a considerable sum of money due from him to the petitioner for about eighteen years, or being brought to any account either with her, or her attorney by Law, or other tendency to a satisfaction; is said to have petitioned your Highnesses, that he might not be prosecuted by Law upon the score of any debt contracted in England. But if I let your Highnesses see this only, that she is a widow, poor, a mother of many small Children, whose entire support almost this man seems to endeavour to divert, I shall keep far from thinking that I need the use of many arguments with you, who are too well acquainted with Gods Commands, especially on behalf of widows and Orphans against oppression; as to imagine your giving way to the grant of such a fraudulent privilege: which I am confident you will never allow of.  
Dated from our Court at Westminster January 27. 1658.  
RICHARD, Protector of the Republ. of England, &c▪ To the most Serene and Potent Prince Lewis, King of France.  
Most Serene and Potent King, Friend, and august Confed●…rate.  
We have, not without grief, had and account of some unworthy interruption given, by some ill minded Persons, to the Protestants while in the exercise of their devotion in Province; to that degree, that when complaint was made thereof to the Magistrates at Gratianopoli, whom it lawfully concerned, they condemned the thing as worthy of a severe reproof: And that the Neighbouring Clergy did thereupon prevail with your Majesty to remit the whole matter to the Judgement of your Royal Council at Paris: W●…o having done nothing hitherto, 〈◊〉 Churches there, the Protestants more 〈◊〉, conot peaceably 〈◊〉 to the exercise of their devotion. Let my earnest desires therefore prevail with Your Majesty, first that they, whose prayers sacrificed for your 〈◊〉, and the prosperity of your Kingdom, were not rejected, their public meetings to pray be not prohibitted: Next that the Disturber of God's peace be, pursuant to their judgement, to whom alone belongs the law●…ll and usual cognisance of such Cases at Gratianopoli, accounted with, Long and peaceable may God render Your Majesties days; And that if these our desires prove acceptable and judged (by you) of service to God, you declare them as such, by removeing that prohibition from off the Protestants Churches, and laying a speedy injunction to have the same repealed,  
Dated at Westminster February 18. An. 1658.  
To his Eminency Cardinal Mazarine.  
Most Eminent Mr Cardinal.  
THe most illustrious Lady Richmond, widow of the Duke of Richmond lately deceased, designs with her young son, to visit and 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 small stay in France. My earnest request therefore to Your Eminency is, that, if they chance to need, in any instance, you●… 〈◊〉, favour, o●… help as strangers, you would please to exercise that regard to their quality consisting with your wont in instances of extraordinary commendations; So as to let them see, that as far as the usual dispensation of your curtesies to all persons could be rendered more than ordinary, our Letters were able to do it: and rest assured in this, that if an●… commendation from your Eminency do seem to call for any thing of this kind at my hands, my allowance thereof may be no less depended upon.  
Westminster February 29. 1658.  
RICHARD, Protector of the Repub. of England, &c To the most Serene and potent Prince 〈◊〉, King of Portugal.  
〈◊〉 〈◊〉 and Potent King. Friend, and 〈◊〉  
Although I ought to write upon various Subjects to a Prince that is a Friend, and ver●… much concerned in the welfare of this Republic, yet there is nothing which I can with more freedom go about, than what I now 〈◊〉 of letting your Majesty and the people of 〈◊〉 know how glad I am of the late sig●…all victory 〈◊〉 of the common Enemy the Spaniard: tending in the apprehension of all men, not only to your own, but the most 〈◊〉 peace and Repose of all Europe, and which may 〈◊〉 entail thereon an advantage of many years' continuance. The next thing is to own Your Majesties Justice as the undoubted fountain, from whence spring Your victories instanceed in the provision made by the 24▪ article of the League concluded b●… the Arbitrators at London for the satisfaction of our Merchants, whose Merchant Men were hired into the service of the Brasile Company. Thereiss one Alexandar Bank Merchant of London, whom the said Company denies to pray the freight contracted for, for the service of a ship of his called the three Brothers John Wilk Master in consideration of two voyages performed in the said Company's service: Whereas the rest have been long ago paid, notwithstanding their having been in 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 but once. Which I do not understand the reason of, except he; in their opinion, is better worthy of a reward, who has served them once, than he that did it twice. My earnest Request to Your Majesty therefore is, that this only man, to whom a double reward is due, be not kept out, of the satisfaction of his hire, and cause, by the influenc●… of your Authority, the said Company to fix upon some speedy day of payment, & repairing his damages, their delays having exposed the Merchant to inconveniencyes far exceeding his hire. God increase your power and continue unto you the uper hand over your Enemies.  
Dated at our Court rt Westminster An. 1658.  
RICHARD, Protector of the Republ. of Egland, etc. To his Eminency Cardinal Mazarine.  
Most Eminent Sr.  
THe Case of Peter Pett, a person of singular honesty, and very serviceable to us and the Republic in naval affairs, came recomended to your Eminency in ours of the 13. of June, being now about eight months past. It was about a vessel of his called the Edward, which was, as we observed, seized upon in the mouth of the River of Thames and sold at the Port of Bayon by one Bascon a Frenchman in the year 1646. And although the King did by an order of Council dated the 4. of November 1647. direct; that what ever the Council should Judge equivalent in money to answer the damage sustained, care should be taken of his being satisfied accordingly: Yet the petitioner complains of his having received no benefit hitherto from the said decree. But as I no way doubt, but that your Eminency will, at my request, command the speedy application of what may be requisite, ●…revious to the execution of that order: This brings you an earnest Repetion of my said request, praying that you would inspect where it sticks, inquire thro' whose neglect or obstinacy it comes to pass, that the King's order shall not, after ten years' respite, be obeyed, & exercise your authority in the pressure of the execution of that Decree, and payment of that appointed sum, which we judge has been 〈◊〉 long ago: causeing'a speedy demand to be made thereof, and the Result paid to the Receipt of the Petitioner. Wherein your Eminency will act a thing conformable principally with Justice, and that shall oblige me besides in a singular degree.  
Dated at our Court at Westminster February 22. 1659.   

The two following LETTERS Were written in the name of the long Parliament, when restrored, upon the Removeall of Richard Cromwell.  
The Parliament of the Republ. of England, etc. To the most serene and potent Prince Charles Gustavus King of Sweedland, Goths & Vandals.  
Most Serene and potent King, Dearest Friend,  
IT having pleased the almighty God, with whom the power of all Changes in Kingdoms and Republics is lodged, to restore us to our former charge in this the Government of the commonwealth of England, we have thought fit first to acquaint you therewith, and next to let your Majesty know of the very great affection we bear to so potent a prince as you are, and how ben●… upon the support of that peace, which our industry and most sincere endeavour were the sole means of establishing between you and the King of Denmark, also a potent protestant Prince. It is therefore ou●… will that the authority, by which Philip Meadows our ex●…raordinary Ambassador there has in the name of this Republic hitherto acted, be now continued as from us: And do hereby confirm unto him the power of proposeing, acting, and transacting with your Majesty to be the same, with the Original: What ever he acts or contracts in our name, we do, with God's assistance, engage to make good: God take your Majesty into his continual guide; with tendency to the safety and security of the Protestants.  
Westminster May 15▪ An▪ 1659.▪ Subscribed by William Leuthall, speaker to the Parliament.  
The Parliament of the Republic of England. To the most Se●…ne Prince Frederick King of Denmark.  
Most Serene King, dearest Friend.  
IT gaveing pleased the Almighty great God, the chief Ruler of all things to 〈◊〉 us 〈◊〉 former S●…ion and charge in the administration of this Republic, we held it appoint mainly becomeing our disposition to our Neighbour, and Ally, to observe the same to your Majesty, and to intimat how much we are concerned at your troubles: the proof whereof you shall see in the endeavour and diligence, which we now do, and shall, as far as there is necessity for it, exercise to reconcile your Majesty and the King of Sweedland to peace. To which purpose we have directed Philip Meadows our extraordinary Embasadour at the Court of Swedland, that for the furure he wait upon your Majesty in our name concerning this affair, and let you know, that whatever he communicateth, proposeth, acteth or transact the, at he should do the same as the effect of our Commands. The Credit given him by your Majesty in the discharge of which Character, we pray that it be believed as given to ourselves. God deliver your Majesty to your content, out of all those Difficultyes which you so resolutely contend with, and draw all to happy and pleasing Issue.  
Westminster May 15. 1659. Signed by William Leuthall Speaker to the Commonwealth Parliament.  
FINIS.